Part 1
The wind howled ferociously running wildly through the bare almond trees that waved in the cold rush blowing mercilessly through them. Outside the weather looked vicious and cold winter breathing icy spells down the spines of the residents of Shimla but inside Suite 104 at Marriot the atmosphere was warm and aglow, rich and vibrant with a cheerful fire crackling merrily in the hearth.He cast an astray look on his belongings his wallet, his watch, his mobile and his briefcase... he roved his eyes over the massive structure of a bed he had been sitting on before running a smooth hand over the upturned silken sheets. Nothing missing he mused inwardly checking the drawers one last time he stood up picking up his expensive jet black Ralph Lauren jacket he slid into it with ease his masculine form filling out the garment fitting in snugly, just then he heard a tap on the door.
"Come in" he had drawled flicking his collar in position he slipped on the cufflinks through the twin slits of his cuffs. Turning around he saw a porter wait for him to hand him his luggage "There's just this bag" he had pointed to his leather carrier stowed near the oak door. "Anything else sir?" the porter had asked politely and he had shaken his head in the negative. Turning around to face himself in the mirror "Not bad Milind Mishra" he had murmured confidently picking up the clear crystal container he held it close to his neck spraying effortlessly the cologne settling on his musky skin the combination lethal. Replacing the silver topper of the cologne he read the name with amusement ESCAPE..... true it was an escape to a different virtual world altogether he breathed in deeply it was his favourite smell. Placing his shapely feet in the confines of his Lacoste business shoes he fell in stride behind the porter taking out his mobile he punched in numbers "Get the car to the driveway" he had ordered his driver who at that precise moment had turned the key in the ignition of his classic Audi A 5 the mettalic beast being manuevered to be at his service in a fraction of a moment. Cutting the call Milind punched in a different set of numbers "I'll be reaching Mumbaii by tomorrow evening, get the papers ready I want this deal at all costs" his tone was authoritative, voice clairvoyant and manner rigid yes he made decisions, he made them in time and he stuck to them through thick and thin.
As he signed his name in the register at the reception he looked up to see an inquisitive set of jade eyes stare back at him "Have a safe journey sir!" the woman had mouthed through moulded lips he cast a swift glance at her awestruck expression, hand me down uniform he had seen better. He had turned away depositing the pen on the counter he sauntered with an air of an emperor and an emperor he was, at thirty he owned twenty five of the world's most renowned hotels scattered over different parts of the globe, travel was a need and escape a desire he had combined both to suit his work the result was spell binding success. "Who was that?" Anju had asked an open mouthed Anita who stared at the broad shoulders of the dark mysterious and irresistably handsome stranger. "Narcissus incarnated" Anita had replied "though he goes by the name of Milind Mishra" she had sighed then men like Mishra were a dream... a dream realized by few though sought by many. She watched him open the front door of his car the driver had stepped out obediently sliding in the back seat while he had occupied the driving seat closing the door with a thud he had driven down the flattened gravel of the driveway as if flying on air.
"Sir I heard a storm was expected" the driver had informed him "Hmm" he had grunted in acknowledgement switching on the heater for the much needed warmth he turned on the radio flipping stations till he finally found a familiar tune.
"How do I get through one night without you, if I had to live without you what sort of life would that be.
And I .. I need you in my arms need you to hold.
You'r my life my love my soul.
If you ever leave. Baby you would take away every thing good in my life.
And tell me now how do I live without you I want to know.
How do I breathe without you if you ever go.
How do I ever.. ever survive.. How do I do.. oh how do I live..."
Trisha Yearwood's voice rang clear and unmistakebly familiar in the limited space of his car he had sighed inwardly memories... damn them. His fingers had reached the knob again flipping through channels and finally settled on another favourite.
"Hum ney mana keh taghaful na kerogey lekin
Hum ney mana keh taghaful na kerogey lekin khak ho jayeingey hum tumko khabar honey tak.
Aah ko chahiye ik umr asar honey tak."
Tonight certainly wasn't his night he had finally shut the radio off he couldn't handle the pain and anguish all over again it was too heart wrenching and a trip down memory lane was hardly what he required. The car sped through deserted lanes and clear roads at remarkable speed he smiled despite the urge to cross 200 the adrenalin rush was tempting could he, he had pondered sinfully. The roads were wet the pinhead curves ahead treacherous but he had to just had to race it just once, a slow smile played on his lips as he shifted gears and pressed the accelerator. The driver had started chanting Gayatri mantra in the back seat this indeed was his last day on earth itself. Milind had heard him and had looked up in the rear view mirror to watch him clasp his hands infront of the lord eyes closed tightly his lips moving in perfect sync well this was going to be fun he had thought gaining momentum.
The car raced through the night like a cheetah closing in for a kill the head lights gleamed throwing beams of snowy light on the tarmac ahead trees whizzed past in a flash, he could make out a steep scree on one side while a dark bottomless ravine on the other though neither of the impending dangers managed to slow or stop him. The hotel was situated atop a hill and the drive down was precarious but Milind had no qualms he was the best driver anyone had known, participated actively in the Grand Prix of Ferrari though not their officially acclaimed champion he raced as an anonymous entity he simply loved the mad frenzy that coursed his veins when the speed picked up. But tonight was different, tonight he was not going to win the gold or smile through to the end, tonight he would face the consequences of his rash actions. It was a split second that had slipped from his control the tyres had passed a wet patch on the road the friction between the rubber and the tarmac had been suspended for a mere fraction of a minute and he had lost control. The car swerved like an automaton while he jammed on the brakes frantically. "God damn it" he had whispered furiously before bringing the vehicle to a screeching halt it was only then that he had felt it bump hard against something and his own forehead had lurched forward to meet the solid metal rim of the dashboard his world had then gone black altogether.
Part 2
Milind heard someone call out to him from a distance but paid no heed his mind was slowly waking up from the after effects of the shock. Once again he heard Raghu call out to him this time it seemed a lot more closer "Sir.... Milind sir" Raghu had shaken him by the shoulder a bit more roughly this time, causing Milind to stir. He opened his eyes wearily registering his whereabouts his head spun and he put a bruised palm to his temple in an attempt to soothe the incessant pounding that threatened to split his brain in two. Wincing he pulled himself together sitting up straight, watching himself in the rearview mirror he traced the solid mound of a rising bump on his forehead. Muttering curses under his breath he unstrapped himself to join Raghu on the wet road outside remnants of melting snow were scattered all over the place, soft snow, he should've known. He understood he had made a grave mistake and turned to check his driver how could he have forgiven himself if Raghu had been hurt because of him. "Are you ok Raghu?" he had inquired anxiously of his manservant who nodded his head vigorously since the brakes had been applied in time and the car had stopped instantaneously no harm had come to the lucky chap, probably God was smiling on him tonight Milind had thought amused checking out his hands and arms to confirm if what he said was but the truth.
The man appeared shaken but otherwise fine it was then that Raghu had pointed to the thin trail of blood that escaped his lip "Sir you are bleeding we should go to a hospital." Milind had licked the side of his swollen lip with the tip of his tongue and tasted his own blood, well served him right for trying to turn into Schumacer on a dangerous slope. "Forget it Raghu I have to reach Mumbaii, just drive me there" he had immediately dismissed the suggestion with a wave of his hand a cold compress would fix the lip and bump in no time. They had walked over to the front of the car to inspect the damage to it, wondering what was it that had stalled the car from jumping off the road into the abysmal ravine below. The head lights shone over a large expanse of the area and as they walked nearer Raghu had let out a faint scream while Milind had frozen in his tracks the wind knocked out of him. There sprawled on the ground bathed in blood was a divine young maiden, she was the one that the car had hit and had saved them from an untimely death. "Sir... she's dead... she's dead!!!" Raghu had cried in dismay tears running down his cheeks and Milind had looked at him in horror it couldn't be, no, he couldn't kill someone. Taking tentative steps towards her he put out a wary hand to her injured figure crouching beside her he turned her to reveal her face.
She appeared to be unconscious blood trickling in a small stream from her nose and mouth there appeared to be a gash in her temple that spilled crimson liquid Milind had put his hand to her warm temple on an impulse. The girl appeared to be quite young her chest rising and falling rapidly indicating her still being alive leaving the finer details for later scrutiny Milind had picked her in his arms and had placed her in the back seat of the Audi. Damn he had frowned he had just had the car imported a month earlier now the expensive suede covers would be soiled with her blood. Getting in beside her Milind took out his handkerchief spreading it on his pants before placing her head in his lap. "Raghu do I need to give you an invitation to start the damned car" he had snapped and Raghu had throbbed the engine to life having ample knowledge of his destination.
"Mr Mishra you need to fill out this form" a young nurse had catwalked upto him in high heels, God not the nurse he practically felt like rushing out of the double doors of the air conditioned lobby where he sat. Why did all women in the world have to ogle him he grimaced inwardly making it a point to avoid eye contact with the over enthusiastic medical attendant. "Your name sir right here" she had grazed her fingers against his cattily and he had glared at her through fiery eyes. "I think I can read" he had hissed the hint had been taken the nurse's face had a crest fallen look as she stepped back. He eyed his Tag Heur watch 8:50 pm he was suppposed to be on his way to Mumbaii to crack the biggest deal of his life yet here he sat in an ice cold lobby in the middle of December trying to fill out a stupid form. He cursed himself for ever having the notion of racing down the darned hill but what was done could not be undone he jotted down the details in fine print before handing it to the sulking nurse not that he cared she was paid to work here not flirt. The door infront of him had opened and the doctor had walked out his green tunic soiled with blood most probably the girl's he had figured. "Mr..." the doctor had stopped short "Mishra... Milind Mishra" he had stood up to introduce himself while Raghu had scurried closer to his master he had been pacing the corridor panic stricken what if the girl was dead and master would have to go to jail instead of Mumbaii.
"Mr Mishra you need to fill out this form" a young nurse had catwalked upto him in high heels, God not the nurse he practically felt like rushing out of the double doors of the air conditioned lobby where he sat. Why did all women in the world have to ogle him he grimaced inwardly making it a point to avoid eye contact with the over enthusiastic medical attendant. "Your name sir right here" she had grazed her fingers against his cattily and he had glared at her through fiery eyes. "I think I can read" he had hissed the hint had been taken the nurse's face had a crest fallen look as she stepped back. He eyed his Tag Heur watch 8:50 pm he was suppposed to be on his way to Mumbaii to crack the biggest deal of his life yet here he sat in an ice cold lobby in the middle of December trying to fill out a stupid form. He cursed himself for ever having the notion of racing down the darned hill but what was done could not be undone he jotted down the details in fine print before handing it to the sulking nurse not that he cared she was paid to work here not flirt. The door infront of him had opened and the doctor had walked out his green tunic soiled with blood most probably the girl's he had figured. "Mr..." the doctor had stopped short "Mishra... Milind Mishra" he had stood up to introduce himself while Raghu had scurried closer to his master he had been pacing the corridor panic stricken what if the girl was dead and master would have to go to jail instead of Mumbaii.
"Mr Mishra she has lost a lot of blood I think it would be best if she is administered a fresh dosage of it the wounds will take time to heal too" as they talked the girl was wheeled out on a stetcher covered in a white sheet Milind had cast a fleeting glance at her as the warden rolled her to her room. "Atleast a week, we'll need to keep monitoring her progress" undoing the stethoscope from around his neck the doctor had started walking away leaving a grim faced Milind behind. "Doctor" Milind had finally found his voice causing the doctor to turn around "I can't let her stay here for even a minute longer" Milind had pressed in an urgent tone. "Mr Mishra you do understand that her condition is critical and I cannot allow you to travel with her in such a grave situation" the doctor had flatly refused to buy any of Milind's excuses for a swift discharge striding off in a huff. "Sir why do we have to wait for her discharge we can leave" Raghu had suggested another one of his brainless suggestions. Milind stood pondering on the matter he simply had to reach Mumbaii by tomorrow and if he waited for formalities here he would waste valuable time but he could not leave her just like that, afterall he had hit her with his car. She probably had a family who must be worried sick about her, Milind realized lodging a complaint with the police would make matters worse Mishra Group of Hotels was a worldwide phenomena he could not tarnish its name, if the news about the accident leaked to the media he would have a hard time settling things. He could not afford an upheavel especially when he was all set to receive Brand of the year award next month no, this should not get out. He had to make sure this was swept under the carpets and if it meant doing it the wrong way he was prepared to do it.
Sauntering down the cool corridors followed closely by Raghu he had entered the room where the girl was lying lifeless on the propped up bed, it was the first time he had seen her in ample illumination and was forced to admit that was a beauty. "Sir I think she is a witch we should check her feet, my grandmother used to tell me witches roam on lonely streets at night dressed up as brides.. See sir see she is all dressed up" Raghu had pointed to the crimson saree she had on Milind had glowered at Raghu which indicated that it was time he shut up. The doctor had inserted a needle in one of her protruding veins in the arm fixing it in place with a bit of tape checking the flow of the blood supply he had looked up to find Milind stand beside him hands thrust in pockets jaw set in firm resolution. "Doctor I need to attend an important business meeting in Mumbaii tomorrow and I need her discharged by morning" he had stated defiantly. "Mr Mishra if you insist I will be forced to call in the police since this is a police case afterall if any harm comes to her whilst journeying the hospital or I should not be held responsible for it. Her head injury is delicate and needs to be handled carefully" he had warned Milind who had felt a swell of rising anger in his chest. "Fine you can very well keep her because with or without her I leave next morning it's best we finish the paperwork before that" he had replied snidely.
"As you wish Mr Mishra" pulling out a clip board from a rack nearby he had gone over the girl's details " Her name?" he had asked Milind who stood silent. How was he supposed to know what was her name, it wasn't that she had it embedded on her forehead "her name Mr Mishra!" the doctor had asked in a slightly louder tone now. Raghu who had been staring at the girl for quite some time had quietly lifted up his head "Prachi" he had stated confidently making Milind fume inwardly as it was they were in deep trouble and here Raghu was lying through his teeth. "Your relationship with the patient?" the doctor had inquired again. Milind stood stumped how was he to admit hitting the woman with his car the doctor now tapped his foot impatiently on the clear tiles of the room making the sound resound irritatingly. Milind's teeth were set so damn firmly he wondered why they hadn't meshed into each other by now, "His wife" Raghu had blurted uncertainly and that had earned him a rather black look from his master. He knew the expression quite well Milind's lips were pressed together his jaw clenched tight if he hadn't known better he'd have boxed Raghu's ears there and then but he had to play along his reputation lay at stake. Raghu had gulped uneasily as the doctor inquired about other details all answered by Raghu " You should have informed me earlier of your association with her. The fact that she is your spouse does not allow me to keep her here against your will. I am ready to discharge her provided you see to it that she is treated properly in Mumbaii too. I must say Mr Mishra I do wonder how she copes up with a husband like you," the young infuriated doctor had retorted quite amazed to see the husband stand stone silent while the driver rattled on.
"None of your damned business and now that you have the details don't bother me about her" he had bit on each word emphatically before striding out only to be followed by Raghu. "Sir ... sir" he had hissed conspiritorially running up to his side. "Don't even remind me of what you did inside Raghu" Milind had stormed at him as soon as Raghu caught up with him. "But sir I only tried to help" Raghu had admitted in a hurt tone. "Help" Milind had barked training his eyes on him so that they probed right through his soul "You call lying about her help. When the hell did I marry her and how did you know her name was Prachi" he gritted his teeth making Raghu tremble in his skin. "Sir she was wearing a pendant it had the name engraved on it. If she is still in the bed in the morning we can take her to Mumbaii by flight" Raghu had tried to appease his master he still hadn't given up hope on her being a witch. Milind had been forced to soften towards the man he was already afraid of the woman he couldn't traumatize him further. "Go sleep in the car Raghu" Milind had ordered him walking into the room himself, he couldn't sleep in the car himself and had no mood to go rent himself a room for the night it was better he stayed with the woman in her room atleast the doctor wouldn't have any qualms about releasing her next morning if he played the devoted husband for the night. He stepped in the room noiselessly absorbing the details carefully this time as Raghu had pointed out he noticed the maroon bridal saree she had wrapped on her slim body, beneath the sheets her figure was carved he could make out the tender swell of her chest her hands placed on either side of her his eyes travelled to her face then. Her forehead was bandaged in bands of gauze a portion of it redenned which showed despite the layers of cotton positioned underneath it. He studied her eyes as they lay closed tinged in shades of matte gold and crimson lined with kohl and a set of most attractive curled lashes. Her nose was small and suited her oval face followed by plush full lips that seemed like pieces of velvet cut and stuck neatly, her skin was a creamy texture flawless and unblemished. He strode towards her magnetically pulling out a hand from his pocket he placed it against her cool skin feeling its silky smoothness against his fingers even in sleep she looked mesmerizing he wondered how it would be once she woke up and started talking. Little had he known her words would be the very thing he would despise in the coming days.
Part 3
Milind had pulled the chair away from the bed and had settled himself in it though his large frame became quite cramped in the tiny steel structure. He shifted uncomfortably in it the room was silent except for the steady beeping of the machines she was hooked on to, he gazed at the clock fixed on the wall infront 10:30 pm. It was clear he was not going to get any sleep in that pathetic piece of furniture and had stood up in a fit wondering why they never considered making chairs that could accomodate people other than size zero. He walked to the curtained windows pulling them back he let the room bathe in the moonlight that filtered through the belgian glass panes. He stood contritely formulating plans in his head he had no information on the girl except for the name for all he knew that too could be a hoax. Yet she was his responsibility in a way, keeping her here would mean inviting trouble once the woman opened her eyes she would start speaking and that could spell disaster for him. He had to whisk her away to Mumbaii before she gained consciousness once there he could get her treated and trace out her folks as soon she got better. That way he wouldn't have to compromise on his work or fear the risk of exposure to the media, if her family decided to press charges he could always shut their mouths he knew how to get about with it.
Afterall money did away with all problems though somehow even with all the money in the world he had failed to buy himself peace of the heart. But that was a different aspect of his life one that he had vowed never to reopen he had to live, live to be the best, live to show the world Milind Mishra was invincible. He turned around to see the girl stir slightly, she moaned in pain and mumbled in her unconscious state "No.." she murmured "Please...no" she had stressed slightly the urgency in the words uttered baffling Milind. Maybe she was having a nightmare he thought of Raghu and his reactions to her ranting had he been here he'd have branded her as a certified witch there and then. Turning his gaze back to the windows he looked down them scanning the parking area of the hospital roving his eyes over the well lit foreground in an attempt to locate his Audi and succeeded in spying it parked in a corner. The interior was dark which meant Raghu had dozed off good for him Milind had thought he could keep watch over the woman while he slept on their way back to Mumbaii. Oh yes the journey back taking out his cell phone he had dialled his assistant Sharma's number "Get me three tickets to Mumbaii and have them delivered to Simla State Hospital by tomorrow morning" he had instructed the man on the other end. "One will be mine, the other for Raghu and a third one for Prachi specify it as being for a disabled person..... make arrangements for medical staff to be in attendance at Mishra mansion before our arrival" well atleast that was taken care of. The doctor had then entered the room to find him standing checking the girl's pulse and blood pressure he had assured Milind of her condition being stable much to Milind's relief.
Morning had seeped in slowly and Milind had been awakened by the cheery bustling of a nurse as she went about her tasks administering the girl with an injection. Milind found himself crammed in the excuse of a chair he had managed to fit in after much struggle his neck and joints were stiff for having to sit upright for a large part of the night. He ran a careful hand over his neck cricking it in multiple dimensions checking the time he found it to be 8:30 in the morning. Leaving the nurse to her work he exited the room in search of a lavatory and having located one freshened up splashing cold water on his face numerous times he rinsed his mouth thoroughly bathing his cut simultaneously. It was then that he studied himself in the clear glass of the mirror afore him. His eyes were puffy his bruise has changed colour from a light shade of red to deep crimson his lip was swollen badly though the rest of the features were quite the same. He ran his hands through his curls settling them, one thing he liked about himself was that he was non fussy about his looks though what he failed to realize was that it was his negligence that blessed him the unabashed charm women found absolutely irresistible.
Wiping his face with a wad of paper towels he returned to the room to find the doctor from the night earlier in attendance "How is she doing doctor?" Milind had asked casually. "Much better Mr Mishra I reckon once the wounds heal she'll be perfectly alright" the doctor had smiled, his first since their meeting precisely 12 hours ago. Milind had nodded his head slightly he actually didn't give a damn to her progress all he wanted was her away from here before she opened her blessed mouth. He saw Raghu amble down the corridor he had been thoughtful enough to fetch his master a steaming cup of latte, "Sir coffee" he had handed him the paper cup. "You had breakfast Raghu?" Milind had inquired to which Raghu had answered in the negative "Doctor could we grab a bite till you organize the discharge papers" Milind had asked and gaining permission had driven off to a coffee shop he had noticed on his way to the hospital earlier. Raghu ofcourse had taken off to treat himself to a simple chai from the dhaba at the corner Milind had provided him the money to breakfast at his will. Sipping on a black coffee Milind had bit in a freshly baked doughnut and had called his assistant yet again. "Sharma what about the tickets?" he had questioned asking him to get them delivered at the airport itself he had finished his drink and reached his car Raghu awaited him pensively. The discharge process had been a smooth task collecting the tickets from the airport an hour later they had boarded the plane together Milind had taken care of getting his car delivered to his doorstep two days later.
Closing his eyes he relaxed in the comfortable reclining foam chair of the air plane Raghu was having the time of his life this was most definitely the first and last time he was going to board another aircraft and was enjoying his trip to the tee. On the seat beside him lay the girl still dressed up quite oblivious of her change in surroundings blissfully sedated. Well atleast someone was carefree Milind had thought enviously trying to focus on the project details flashing on his laptop screen. A short while later Milind too had dozed off leaving Raghu the only one wide awake amongst the three, he sat munching on fresh apples that a stewardess had just provided him after all he was travelling business class. The flight had landed and Raghu had woken Milind up who had found it quite unamusing as Raghu's fingers delved in his flesh. "I'm awake Raghu" he had informed his over excited servant fretting his decision of bringing him with him on the flight in the first place, he should've made him drive all the way to Mumbaii, Idiot he had cursed under his breath. Quickly freshening up Milind had returned in a matter of seconds the situation was further aggravated when Prachi's wheelchair was found to be stuck in the plane's hold. "I can't believe this" Milind had muttered shoving his baggage to Raghu he had carefully lifted Prachi's sleeping form in his arms. Now that the initial awkwardness had been over with Milind had felt himself assess her weight and texture in his hold, she ceratinly wasn't the first woman he was holding close in his life but was most definitely the softest he had held till date. Her head had gently rolled inwards and lay against his chest he felt his heart constrict under his designer jacket and was forced to stare at her. Shaking his head gently he had proceeded to disembark the aircraft "We're sorry for your inconvenience sir" an attendant had rushed up to him apologizing.
"You better be since it'll be a sorry sight when I sue your damned company for negligence" Milind had remarked coldly. It was indeed an odd sight for people gathered together by the luggage belt as they saw a handsome young man carry a beautiful woman in his arms though the expressions he wore hardly gave away his emotions. His brain had started sending him danger signals his sixth sense indicating towards an occurrence of grave portent he had a sinking feeling in his stomach as he walked the entire length of the arrival lounge and then he had stopped dead in his tracks. There lined by the dozen were press photographers who had almost immediately identified him and had started clicking pictures of him in that precarious position left right center. It turned out that the Indian Cricket team was supposed to have landed precisely half an hour after and the paparazzi had gathered to get the inside scoop. Milind's blood had frozen right down to the last drop in his veins. This was a deep mess never had he anticipated it coming to this after the lengths that he had gone to conceal this melodrama it would be splashed in the papers nonetheless. He felt like kicking himself how could he have been so rash drawing a sharp breath he managed to remain calm and collected though his heart knew otherwise. The officer in charge had come rushing to his aide Milind Mishra was not someone to be dismissed easily, he was one of the elite circle, people like him provided bread and butter to the airline industry losing an important client like him would spell disaster. He had gotten a call earlier from the aircraft informing him of the inconvenience Milind had to face because of them, moreover Milind's threat to sue the company hadn't gone unnoticed. "Sir if you would step this way please" the floor manager had ushered him to a door on the left and had led him through corridors to a comfortable office on the upper floor.
"Sir we must apologize on behalf of the airline, we assure you that you will be provided with a safe passage to your car" the manager in charge had assured him the statement of course had failed to move Milind. He had stayed mum yet had placed Prachi in a wheelchair provided by the attendant and had called Sharma, "Where are you?" he had barked in his cell. "In the parking lot sir" a prompt reply had come. "There'll be an attendant to guide you to the back of this building follow him" he had instructed before clicking the cell shut. This was probably the worst nightmare of his life the room was empty Raghu too had left with the attendant to prepare for their swift departure he stood perplexed. His eyes had fallen inadvertently on Prachi who now rested in the wheel chair and in that one moment Milind had felt a deep rooted hatred rise for her from the depths of his heart. How he hated women, they had been the cause of his problems since his very birth and here too it was a woman who had landed him in such deep a mire. Fighting the urge to abandon her there and then he had turned his face away from her no matter how much he loathed her the fact still remained that he was responsible for her condition and Milind Mishra was everything but a hypocrite if he made mistakes he rectified them and he would put this one right too. The door had been tapped then and Raghu had returned to inform him of a clear passage to his car sauntering out of the room Milind had left Raghu to wheel Prachi out behind him.
Milind had pulled the chair away from the bed and had settled himself in it though his large frame became quite cramped in the tiny steel structure. He shifted uncomfortably in it the room was silent except for the steady beeping of the machines she was hooked on to, he gazed at the clock fixed on the wall infront 10:30 pm. It was clear he was not going to get any sleep in that pathetic piece of furniture and had stood up in a fit wondering why they never considered making chairs that could accomodate people other than size zero. He walked to the curtained windows pulling them back he let the room bathe in the moonlight that filtered through the belgian glass panes. He stood contritely formulating plans in his head he had no information on the girl except for the name for all he knew that too could be a hoax. Yet she was his responsibility in a way, keeping her here would mean inviting trouble once the woman opened her eyes she would start speaking and that could spell disaster for him. He had to whisk her away to Mumbaii before she gained consciousness once there he could get her treated and trace out her folks as soon she got better. That way he wouldn't have to compromise on his work or fear the risk of exposure to the media, if her family decided to press charges he could always shut their mouths he knew how to get about with it.
Afterall money did away with all problems though somehow even with all the money in the world he had failed to buy himself peace of the heart. But that was a different aspect of his life one that he had vowed never to reopen he had to live, live to be the best, live to show the world Milind Mishra was invincible. He turned around to see the girl stir slightly, she moaned in pain and mumbled in her unconscious state "No.." she murmured "Please...no" she had stressed slightly the urgency in the words uttered baffling Milind. Maybe she was having a nightmare he thought of Raghu and his reactions to her ranting had he been here he'd have branded her as a certified witch there and then. Turning his gaze back to the windows he looked down them scanning the parking area of the hospital roving his eyes over the well lit foreground in an attempt to locate his Audi and succeeded in spying it parked in a corner. The interior was dark which meant Raghu had dozed off good for him Milind had thought he could keep watch over the woman while he slept on their way back to Mumbaii. Oh yes the journey back taking out his cell phone he had dialled his assistant Sharma's number "Get me three tickets to Mumbaii and have them delivered to Simla State Hospital by tomorrow morning" he had instructed the man on the other end. "One will be mine, the other for Raghu and a third one for Prachi specify it as being for a disabled person..... make arrangements for medical staff to be in attendance at Mishra mansion before our arrival" well atleast that was taken care of. The doctor had then entered the room to find him standing checking the girl's pulse and blood pressure he had assured Milind of her condition being stable much to Milind's relief.
Morning had seeped in slowly and Milind had been awakened by the cheery bustling of a nurse as she went about her tasks administering the girl with an injection. Milind found himself crammed in the excuse of a chair he had managed to fit in after much struggle his neck and joints were stiff for having to sit upright for a large part of the night. He ran a careful hand over his neck cricking it in multiple dimensions checking the time he found it to be 8:30 in the morning. Leaving the nurse to her work he exited the room in search of a lavatory and having located one freshened up splashing cold water on his face numerous times he rinsed his mouth thoroughly bathing his cut simultaneously. It was then that he studied himself in the clear glass of the mirror afore him. His eyes were puffy his bruise has changed colour from a light shade of red to deep crimson his lip was swollen badly though the rest of the features were quite the same. He ran his hands through his curls settling them, one thing he liked about himself was that he was non fussy about his looks though what he failed to realize was that it was his negligence that blessed him the unabashed charm women found absolutely irresistible.
Wiping his face with a wad of paper towels he returned to the room to find the doctor from the night earlier in attendance "How is she doing doctor?" Milind had asked casually. "Much better Mr Mishra I reckon once the wounds heal she'll be perfectly alright" the doctor had smiled, his first since their meeting precisely 12 hours ago. Milind had nodded his head slightly he actually didn't give a damn to her progress all he wanted was her away from here before she opened her blessed mouth. He saw Raghu amble down the corridor he had been thoughtful enough to fetch his master a steaming cup of latte, "Sir coffee" he had handed him the paper cup. "You had breakfast Raghu?" Milind had inquired to which Raghu had answered in the negative "Doctor could we grab a bite till you organize the discharge papers" Milind had asked and gaining permission had driven off to a coffee shop he had noticed on his way to the hospital earlier. Raghu ofcourse had taken off to treat himself to a simple chai from the dhaba at the corner Milind had provided him the money to breakfast at his will. Sipping on a black coffee Milind had bit in a freshly baked doughnut and had called his assistant yet again. "Sharma what about the tickets?" he had questioned asking him to get them delivered at the airport itself he had finished his drink and reached his car Raghu awaited him pensively. The discharge process had been a smooth task collecting the tickets from the airport an hour later they had boarded the plane together Milind had taken care of getting his car delivered to his doorstep two days later.
Closing his eyes he relaxed in the comfortable reclining foam chair of the air plane Raghu was having the time of his life this was most definitely the first and last time he was going to board another aircraft and was enjoying his trip to the tee. On the seat beside him lay the girl still dressed up quite oblivious of her change in surroundings blissfully sedated. Well atleast someone was carefree Milind had thought enviously trying to focus on the project details flashing on his laptop screen. A short while later Milind too had dozed off leaving Raghu the only one wide awake amongst the three, he sat munching on fresh apples that a stewardess had just provided him after all he was travelling business class. The flight had landed and Raghu had woken Milind up who had found it quite unamusing as Raghu's fingers delved in his flesh. "I'm awake Raghu" he had informed his over excited servant fretting his decision of bringing him with him on the flight in the first place, he should've made him drive all the way to Mumbaii, Idiot he had cursed under his breath. Quickly freshening up Milind had returned in a matter of seconds the situation was further aggravated when Prachi's wheelchair was found to be stuck in the plane's hold. "I can't believe this" Milind had muttered shoving his baggage to Raghu he had carefully lifted Prachi's sleeping form in his arms. Now that the initial awkwardness had been over with Milind had felt himself assess her weight and texture in his hold, she ceratinly wasn't the first woman he was holding close in his life but was most definitely the softest he had held till date. Her head had gently rolled inwards and lay against his chest he felt his heart constrict under his designer jacket and was forced to stare at her. Shaking his head gently he had proceeded to disembark the aircraft "We're sorry for your inconvenience sir" an attendant had rushed up to him apologizing.
"You better be since it'll be a sorry sight when I sue your damned company for negligence" Milind had remarked coldly. It was indeed an odd sight for people gathered together by the luggage belt as they saw a handsome young man carry a beautiful woman in his arms though the expressions he wore hardly gave away his emotions. His brain had started sending him danger signals his sixth sense indicating towards an occurrence of grave portent he had a sinking feeling in his stomach as he walked the entire length of the arrival lounge and then he had stopped dead in his tracks. There lined by the dozen were press photographers who had almost immediately identified him and had started clicking pictures of him in that precarious position left right center. It turned out that the Indian Cricket team was supposed to have landed precisely half an hour after and the paparazzi had gathered to get the inside scoop. Milind's blood had frozen right down to the last drop in his veins. This was a deep mess never had he anticipated it coming to this after the lengths that he had gone to conceal this melodrama it would be splashed in the papers nonetheless. He felt like kicking himself how could he have been so rash drawing a sharp breath he managed to remain calm and collected though his heart knew otherwise. The officer in charge had come rushing to his aide Milind Mishra was not someone to be dismissed easily, he was one of the elite circle, people like him provided bread and butter to the airline industry losing an important client like him would spell disaster. He had gotten a call earlier from the aircraft informing him of the inconvenience Milind had to face because of them, moreover Milind's threat to sue the company hadn't gone unnoticed. "Sir if you would step this way please" the floor manager had ushered him to a door on the left and had led him through corridors to a comfortable office on the upper floor.
"Sir we must apologize on behalf of the airline, we assure you that you will be provided with a safe passage to your car" the manager in charge had assured him the statement of course had failed to move Milind. He had stayed mum yet had placed Prachi in a wheelchair provided by the attendant and had called Sharma, "Where are you?" he had barked in his cell. "In the parking lot sir" a prompt reply had come. "There'll be an attendant to guide you to the back of this building follow him" he had instructed before clicking the cell shut. This was probably the worst nightmare of his life the room was empty Raghu too had left with the attendant to prepare for their swift departure he stood perplexed. His eyes had fallen inadvertently on Prachi who now rested in the wheel chair and in that one moment Milind had felt a deep rooted hatred rise for her from the depths of his heart. How he hated women, they had been the cause of his problems since his very birth and here too it was a woman who had landed him in such deep a mire. Fighting the urge to abandon her there and then he had turned his face away from her no matter how much he loathed her the fact still remained that he was responsible for her condition and Milind Mishra was everything but a hypocrite if he made mistakes he rectified them and he would put this one right too. The door had been tapped then and Raghu had returned to inform him of a clear passage to his car sauntering out of the room Milind had left Raghu to wheel Prachi out behind him.
Part 4
The ride to his home had been a dead silent one he sat in the backseat with Prachi by his side his hand placed rigidly under his stubbled chin. His forehead was scrunched in deep furrows thinking about the repurcussions of his rather dramatic appearance in the airport lobby. It was no hidden fact that by evening his pictures would be gracing the front page of every business newspaper in town hoping against hopes that the meeting would go smoothly much before the evening print hit the market but first he had to get Prachi home, stow her away from the prying eyes of the media. Mishra mansion's columned visage loomed in view and Milind had heaved a sigh of relief he probably had managed to outwit the media since he couldn't see any signs of them outside his house atleast he could be at peace at his abode. The massive iron structures had swung wide open to allow entrance to a mile long driveway snaking up through emerald patches of luscious foliage trimmed and pruned to perfection.
Mishra mansion was indeed splendiforous the medical assistance hired earlier stood in attendance near the doorway a stretcher had been produced spontaneously and Prachi had been carefully lain on it. Milind had stepped out from the BMW leading the way through the large expanse of a practically empty marbled foyer it was massive with a curved gold railing supported with golden balustrades winding up to the first floor. The interiors were breath taking cream and gold right down to the gold upholstered dining chairs thin cream gauze curtains were binded by gold tassled laces allowing sunlight to stream in, had Prachi been awake she would've been in for the surprise of her life. Walking up the stairs rigidly Milind had followed the medical personnel to his room shock evident in his pitch black eyes as he strode in to find His bedroom turned into an ICU unit. Smothering the flames of raw anger that flared his mind he managed to clench his fists in an attempt to keep his rage at bay. Of all the rooms in the masion why his he certainly could not fathom it, was it destiny at play or was it that was ill fated as always, the nurses had been quick to work. Checking on Prachi's vitals they had administered the dosage immediately a doctor too was at hand and he had studied Prachi's previous reports thoroughly. "Mr Mishra she just needs ample rest... though I would prefer if we ran a couple of tests on her to guage the extent of the injury" . Milind though hardly paid attention to the good doctor's advice "Sharma... attend to this" he had ordered his assistant who had quickly stepped forward discussing in detail the tests to be undergone by Prachi within the next twenty four hours.
Walking to his wardrobe Milind had pulled out a beige suit he badly needed a change the one he had on smelt of the woman's blood. In the mean time Kaka had appeared in the doorway "Son do you need anything" the aged servant had asked Milind and he had sighed inwardly the tension in his muscles releasing, the one man who could put an end to his fury was Kaka. He had been Milind's attendant since the day the boy had been born, their relationship spanned over a period of three decades though not all of the tiime had been a happy one for his young master. "Tea Kaka... please make it quick" he had added squeezing the servant's knotted hands lovingly and he had smiled in assurance. "You have your shower and I'll have it ready" he had told him before limping off to the kitchen he was the only soul in that entire household who actually had a connection to all the residents living there. Besides Milind there was Sukriti his half sister and Baba his father though none of them remained in direct contact with each other. Boiling the water kaka had ladeled out tea leaves and sugar in it mixing in the milk later and had strained it in a cup, by the time Milind had freshened and changed Kaka had a light snack ready for him. Milind had munched on the toast and gulped the warm tea in gratitude "What would I do without you kaka" he had murmured while kaka had tousled his wet curls lovingly "probably turn into a wild beast" he had chuckled. "Milind who is this girl?" Kaka had asked cautiously "I don't know kaka she's been nothing but trouble since I accidently knocked her with my car" he had relented checking his watch.
"She seems different... different from the usual" kaka had remarked and Milind had known what he had wanted to imply. "The usual ..." he had echoed yes most of the girls that visited him weren't the very best of the lot, though what often puzzled kaka was that none were invited by him. But then that was his charm the flamboyance that he exuded that lured women to him, he though cared for none.... and almost all had left him disheartedly not though before trying their luck with him. "Kaka cook something nice tonight I'll have dinner at home" he had informed the servant before standing up collecting his files and laptop he had left as abruptly as he had come.Kaka had cleared the dishes away pondering on the events Milind said he had nearly run down the girl but then why did he feel as if the picture was finally complete was there more to it, he had wondered.
At his office Milind had stepped in the boardroom to be greeted by his French delegates "Mr Mishra we are pleased to have had this opportunity to work with you" Pierre Ferrego had implied puffing on his cigar haughtily. His company was one of the few that held a global impact right from designing comfy celebrity villas in the north of the country to sky scrapers in Lyon and Paris the company constructed them all. Their new entreprenurial target was indeed South East Asia and India a potential land of opportunity. A country on the verge of an economical boom and packed with people was a profitable venture in Ferrego's opinion. Out of the list of fifteen candidates with which the company had decided to join hands with Mishra Corporation was a primary choice thanks to Milind's flawless reputation atleast on the business front. "Well I do believe the partnership should be laid down on my rules" Milind had reclined in his large leather armchair swinging it lazily "Really Mr Mishra" Ferrego had raised an eyebrow in mock interest. "Yes Mr Ferrego either we go over the details and you comply with my conditions or you find another partner" Milind had informed him coldly his piercing gaze unsettling an overconfident Ferrego.
"You do understand the repurcussions to your adamance Mr Mishra" Geraldo Fine had intervened lighting his pipe a senior advisor of the French delegation. "I do Mr Fine" Milind had replied unwaveringly handing them the file he had prepared meticulously jotting down details that had been enough ti impress the men studying it. "I see you have been calculative Mr Mishra... I like that" Fine had smiled slyly... "It's all about numbers isn't it?" Milind had asked unsmilingly "I take it you gentlemen will require time to study the deal.. I am prepared to grant you a day. If you concede we will sign the papers tomorrow" he had stood up calmly. "What if we don't" Ferrego had inquired deeply in awe of this hot blooded entrepreneur with the streak of dominance "You'll be in for a great loss" Milind had remarked coolly before striding out of the glassed boardroom, he worked on his own rules , rules that he wasn't prepared to bend or negotiate on for anyone. The rest of the day had passed smoothly and by nine that evening he had wrapped up his work so immersed was he with it that he had completely forgotten about Prachi or the accident. It was not before the car reached his gates was he jolted out of his illusion and reminded of the grim events the previous day. Outside his house stood three news vans a couple of tired reporters sweated profusely probably lying in wait to catch a glimpse of him and if luck was smiling probably get an answer or two out of him. He ofcourse had encountered many such situations in the past calling up security he had them clear the way before his car rolled inside the iron gates shutting them to the world outside.
Prachi had fluttered her eyes open the dim lights in the room had made it hard for her to makeout any thing her vision was hazy she brought a careful hand to her bandaged head which felt as heavy as lead. She winced in pain as she tried to get up it was an extremely difficult task for her, her futile attempts had not gone unnoticed by the nurse who was by her side "Mrs Mishra please don't strain yourself" she had gently lain Prachi back. "Where am I?" Prachi had whispered her mouth was parched her lips pale surprisingly she couldn't recall any of her surroundings. "Please don't stress yourself Mrs Mishra you'r right at home" the kind nurse had propped downy pillows around Prachi helping her rest against them holding a glass of water to her she helped Prachi sip it slowly. The nurse had switched on the lights for better visibility making Prachi look around the room assessing it's splendour it was done up in azure and beige the queen size bed she lay on had silken sheets with a carved head rest there were luxuriant sofas and foot stools, the room was carpeted in a beige fur a crystal chandelier hung overhead but right now the soft lights that flooded the room emitted from studio lights fitted around the length and breath of the ceiling, a massive wardrobe stood at the far end of the room.
Prachi had closed her eyes again unable to make out anything as far as she understood this was alien to her, she wondered where her family was though try as she might she couldn't remember them. Milind had swung open the wooden door to find Prachi finally awake as he stepped forward she had opened her eyes to find herself being glowered at by a stranger. "There now Mrs Mishra your husband is home now... I'll leave you two alone for a while" the nurse had smiled at Prachi who had felt it quite awkward to be at the receiving end of such an unpleasant stare. Throwing his coat on a nearby sofa Milind had kicked off his shoes "So you finally awaken Sleeping beauty and now that you have done the honours could you please be kind enough so as to enlighten me of your existence" Milind had asked her scathingly. Prachi had looked up at him through her soft hazel eyes in bewilderment if what the nurse had stated was true why was he asking her for an identity. She studied him he was probably six feet tall with a crop of the most unruly curls, his face was impeccably handsome, his coal black eyes narrowed to mere slits fringed with curled lashes, his lips were of a perfect shape though one appeared to be swollen his lower face and cheek was hidden in facial hair trimmed neatly and as she admitted to herself looked perfect with his personality. His nose was blunt his eye brows thick though right now they were knitted together as he waited for her answer testing his patience.
"What's your name?" she had asked him softly "I'm sorry but somehow I can't recall it" she had explained honestly while he gazed at her surprised by the gentle tone of her voice. She did not appear intimidated by him rather at a loss and that further appalled him. He had turned away wordlessly to the wardrobe retrieving his kurta and track pants and had disappeared in the washroom for a quick shower, in his absence Kaka had called on him to inform him about dinner being ready. Watching Prachi wide awake he had inquired of her health and she had smiled at him "I am much better" she had replied. Kaka had taken an instant liking to her and had asked her if she was hungry. Having been asleep for nearly a day Prachi's insides hurt with fatigue and she had complied to Kaka's offer to having dinner in her bedroom. Moments later Kaka had returned with the food in a tray and had placed it on the low table in the room Milind had returned then towelling his hair dry. He had completely ignored Prachi thrusting his feet in his sandals he had stepped out of the room to find the nurse waiting by the entrance. "Sir your wife seems pretty weak" she had informed him and he had listened to her comment in silence, making for the dining table downstairs. It seemed as if the other occupants had had their meals and as he confirmed with kaka who had assented to his doubt. "Milind she seems pretty nice" kaka had informed him "why you talked to her?" he had inquired spooning his food in his mouth.
"Yes I did" kaka had smiled " Did she have her dinner?" he had asked again. "I don't know" Milind had answered off handedly "Did you get her name?" Milind had asked Kaka. "No" kaka had replied "though Raghu told me it was Prachi" he had informed Milind. "What else has that Raghu been telling you ?" Milind had asked amused "He didn't have to the paper pretty much said it" Kaka had replied showing him a copy of the evening paper where indeed a picture of him with her in his arms adorned the front page. "Tycoon turns into prince charming" Milind had read with disinterest the calumnies churned by a disillusioned reporter my God could it get any worse he had thought.
Prachi had thought the stranger which she assumed was her husband would join her for dinner she felt hungry and her head hurt she waited patiently but he still didn't return. After a while her head began to feel dizzy and had started throbbing incessantly the nurse too was unavailable, little had she known the nurse had finished off with her duty and had retired home. Putting a hand to her forehead Prachi had managed to push back the silken covers revealing her saree the heavy embroidery it bore weighed it down and Prachi had found it extremely uncomfortable an attire to be in any longer. She slid off the bed steadying herself against the head rest the wardrobe seemed so far away but she simply had to relieve herself of this constraining garment. Pushing herself forward she managed to walk the expanse of the room holding on to the sofas for assistance once there she had swung open the doors only to find it decked with masculine garments. Shirts, suits even undergarments all probably belonging to the man who was here earlier. She stood perplexed a sharp pain engulfing her she felt herself falling Milind had though deftly caught her in his arms before she had hit the ground. She had looked up at him through those bewitching eyes yet again "Where had you gone?" she had whispered softly startling him.
As he filled her in his arms she had held him by his shirt "What were you doing?" he had asked grimly placing her on the bed "I wanted to change" she had told him and he had left once again. She wondered why was it that everytime she answered him he walked out on her. "Kaka could you ask Sukriti to lend some of her clothes to the girl" he had inquired of Kaka. "Why don't you ask her yourself?" Kaka had suggested "Please Kaka not now" Milind had requested and Kaka had shaken his head in disappointment they were a stubborn lot all of them. Moments later he had returned with a bundle of clothes from her room which Milind had taken from him to his own and had handed them to Prachi. "Change, eat and sleep" he had ordered her and had left her in care of the nurse who had resumed night duty beside Prachi holding the clothes in her hands Prachi had watched him exit the room what sort of a man had she married she had wondered then. Milind had retired to bed in one of the adjacent bedrooms he was determined to get over with the chapter named Prachi in his life, making up his mind to inquire about her family once she got better he had drifted off to sleep.
Part 5
At some indefinite point in the night Milind had felt his hand encumbered he lay comfortably sprawled on his massive king size bed in his guest room, he lugged at his hand in sleep but found it pinned under a minuscule weight. His eyes had groggily opened up to make out a dismal shape in the inky darkness etched in the room. Reaching out for the bedside lamp he had switched it on to find Prachi slumber by the side of his bed her head resting on his open hand he stared on not registering the uncanniness of the situation, only when he tried to move his hand a third time and it still wouldn't budge from beneath her he felt anger bubble inside him. What the hell was this woman doing in his room in the dead of the night. No forget the room this wasn't even his room this was a guest room where he had been forced to sleep because SHE was occupying his room in the first place. He had felt like banging her head against the wall he noticed she shivered slightly as she sat huddled on the cold marble floor her head resting on his palm while her hand holding on to his arm her bandage was soiled from the side where she had been hit the blood stain increasing in diameter, the wound was probably bleeding underneath. This was too much for him to handle he had paid medical staff to take care of her twenty four seven yet she sat beside him in a visibly uncomfortable position while the damned nurse was nowhere to be found. Sitting up straight he had gently lifted her head her wound was troubling him immensely. Part of him wanted to bring the house down but the other more rational part knew at two in the night he couldn't act like a child who'd been deprived of his favourite soft toy. He had bent down and had been about to pick her up in his arms when she had stirred feeling the light on her face she had opened her tender eyes to greet his feral ones. "What the hell are you doing here?" he had snapped impatiently and Prachi had stared at the man in wonder what had she ever done to get him so infuriated at her in the first place.
"I ... was feeling .. afraid" she had whispered sitting up straight though in the process her head had blown up in a zillion pieces all at once she had drawn in a sharp breath pain evident from her distorted expression as she put her palm to her forehead. "That nurse is gonna pay for this" Milind had sworn under his breath getting off the bed when he had felt a soft hand on his own. He traced it to her "It's not her fault please don't get mad at her" she had pleaded to him. "She's supposed to look after you that's what I bloody pay her for" Milind had shrugged her hand off and marched in the next room to storm on a fast asleep nurse Mala. The poor woman was a heavy sleeper and snored quite vehemently much to Prachi's inconvenience and discomfort, Prachi had tried to put up with the thunder and roll for quite some time but when it became quite impossible for her to do so she had decided to join her husband in their bedroom. She had tiptoed to his room miraculously he was just in the room next door she had found it quite rude to awaken him at her expense and avoided getting in bed with him rather had settled on the floor beside him with her hand holding onto him for assurance of him being there. She could hear him rant and rave at the flustered nurse and deep inside Prachi felt bad at having put her through this. She contemplated on returning to her room or not when the door to that room had flown open and Milind had stomped in sweeping her in his arms in one graceful move he had her nestled safely in them even though Prachi's ride was a short one it was memorable to her since it was the first one she remembered with vivid clarity. He seemed least bothered about her reaction or take on his actions settling her on the bed he had wanted to return to his own bedroom when he noticed her food tray untouched. "Have you had dinner?" he had inquired brusquely of her. "No" she had answered only to see the untamed fury in his eyes directed to her now. "Why" he had growled "How could I eat alone" she had counter questioned him. His eyes had narrowed then drilling their unhappy glare in her while she looked at him unaware of his thought process. "Well I didn't know you required company to dine" he had stated acidly turning to the nurse he had ordered her to make her eat something before making her take her pills and had left to catch up on his sleep.
The next morning Prachi had woken up with a heavy head though it did not pound like a wave crashing shore it certainly felt like lead. The night nurse had helped her walk up to the washroom Prachi longed to have a shower but her head injury wouldn't allow her that so she settled for a bath. Soaking her tired body in a fragrant tub of bubbles she had soaped herself luxuriantly taking in the ceramic fittings of the expansive bathroom complimenting the rich creamy colour that glowed in the soft amber lights making her feel as if she was a princess and had after the exercise felt much better. She had put on the bathrobe and had walked out to see the nurse await her with breakfast. "Is my husband home?" she had asked the servant waiting on her in return Raghu had stared at her in awe now who had told her to play along when master wasn't even around. "Milind sir isn't home" he had answered curtly not liking his master's bachelorhood being compensated on the whim of a dainty looking creature. Prachi had looked at him quite taken aback by his rather formal yet scathingly to the point answer somehow the feeling that she had wronged the man incharge in some inexplicable fashion had hit her home yet again. The nurse had placed the breakfast tray infront of her coaxing her to take her cereal and she had eaten mutely she remembered the cold dinner she had, had to have under the watchful eye of the same nurse the previous night it certainly hadn't been very appealing she had recollected sadly. After breakfast Prachi had been made to change in an expensive saree her hair brushed and braided she had left the room with her attendants for a trip to the hospital. She had taken in the bustling traffic that Mumbaii was so famous for her mind not registering any of it as familiar, she mused silently during her car ride trying to recollect her past but it just would not come to her. At the hospital her tests had run smoothly and the doctor had smiled as he saw her sit looking rather apprehensively at him "Mrs Mishra you'r going to be just fine" he had grinned good naturedly. "Your reports will in by evening but by the looks of it the wounds seem to be healing" he had carefully unwrapped Prachi's soiled bandage studying the tell tale cut meticulously wiping it clean he had bandaged it again. "Is there any other pain or problem you have experienced after the accident besides your head injury?" the doctor had asked mechanically taking her pressure.
"Actually doctor" Prachi had started hesitantly when the knowledgeable doctor's eyes had rested on her. "Yes Mrs Mishra" he was all ears and Prachi had felt like pouring her heart out to him she had sobbed then unable to understand herself at the point. Dismissing Raghu and the rather reluctant nurse from the room the doctor had made Prachi relax in her seat fetching her some water which she drank in small sips. "Now Mrs Mishra lets start from the beginning" he had smiled kindly Dr Mathur was an aged doctor who had seen many pleasant and not so pleasant cases in his thirty years of service as Senior Doctor at Mumbaii City Hospital. "Doctor my husband I think I might have upset him in some way but I cannot recall how...... I can't remember anything from before the accident" she had explained to him. 'I couldn't even remember his name" she had wept inconsolably this time as Dr Mathur had gazed at her thoughtfully. "Do you remember your own name?" he had asked her gently and Prachi's eyes had widened in horror uptill now she had assumed to have forgotten all details on Milind it was now that reality struck her with full force she was a lost soul who had no inkling of her own idenity. She clutched her head in agony her tears falling thick and fast watching her this way Dr Mathur had been forced to inject her with a sedative.
Milind sat poring over his sales reports for the last month his eyes reading beyond the printed word searching probing calculating. His fingers worked nimbly as he made notes on his laptop beside him usually his secretary worked alongside but today he couldn't even stand the sight of any woman and had worked on his own definitely more at peace. He had been receiving calls from various newpapers and channels since morning but he was kept in the dark about it only the most important calls were put through by Sharma while the rest were handled by him. Milind was a workaholic he usually was the first at the office in wake of his early attendance the janitor had made it a point to clean his office the first thing he did when he reached Mishra Towers. The hands on the clock had turned silently as Milind had smoked cigarette after cigarette his ash tray threatening to overflow with the heap of burnt stubs and ash he kept piling in it. It was evident he was immersed in his work so much so that he had quite forgotten that he had made it a point to have a word with the nurse after Prachi returned from her check up that morning. A shrill ring had pierced through the cool insides of his otherwise silent office he had been jostled out of his concentrated activity rubbing his forehead lightly he had mouthed a greeting in the cradle. "Sir some Dr Mathur wishes to speak to you" Sharma had informed him. "Do I know him?" he had asked stiffly "Sir he's the one your wife had an appointment with today" Sharma had reminded him "Put him through" Milind had instructed placing the phone back when it rung once again. "Milind Mishra speaking" he had replied coolly when Dr Mathur had asked to confirm if it was him. "I was wondering if you could drop by the hospital around lunch time, I was hoping to discuss you'r wife's condition with you in detail" Milind had frowned he still needed to study the papers in detail before he faxed them. "Fine I'll be there by two" and with that he had concluded the conversation. He had then called Sharma to take notes while he dictated them to him he certainly could not have the luxury of working on his own and at exactly two in the afternoon he was at Dr Mathur's cabin seating himself in one of the steel chairs opposite him. "How are you doing then Mr Mishra" Dr Mathur had opened up conversation though Milind had come straight to the point. "You said to wanted to discuss Prachi's health... what about it? How soon will she be back on her feet so that I may be relieved of my responsibility" Milind had asked wryly.
"First of all as a husband I had expected you to be more compassionate regarding your wife's ill health instead of considering her a mere responsibility. No wonder the girl is scared to death of you" Dr Mathur had informed Milind who didn't look at moved. "Tell me something I don't know doctor" Milind had kept the conversation flowing. "Well then her reports are back and she is progressing quite well physically" Dr Mathur had proceeded to rattle on with the various test reports "That means she's fine" Milind had cut him short. "I'm afraid no Mr Mishra she is definitely not fine" Dr Mathur had explained gently Milind had looked up at him questioningly to see him sigh "She's suffering from amnesia Mr Mishra..... her mind is a blank slate she does not recall anything not even her own name" Milind had tried to grasp the falling marble weight from his hand and had managed to clutch it before it hit the floor. Placing it back on the table he had exited the doctor's office mutely amnesia or not that woman was not staying with him at any cost. Her plight did not alter the fact that she was a female species, a member of the opposite sex, someone he could expend at the wave of a hand but not lose himself to.
Prachi had awoken up after a refreshing sleep and stretched herself languidly she couldn't recall ever coming back home and was unhappy to think that she had yet again failed to remember even simple tasks. Freshening up quickly she had made her way to the kitchen where she could smell wonderful cuisines being cooked to perfection. She peeped in the open doorway to find Ramu Kaka slice vegetables on a cutting board "Can I help you?" she had asked timidly making Ramu Kaka smile fondly at her. "Why not, come make yourself comfortable that will be help enough" he had joked pulling out a dining chair for her which she had accepted graciously. "Is he going to come for lunch?" she had inquired again "Who?" Ramu Kaka had asked confused by her query, now who did the he apply to. "My husband the man who is perenially angry at me" she had elaborated in a quiet voice. "Milind" Kaka had smiled yet again "Well he might since he was hoping to make it to your appointment today" Kaka had supplied her with information on the mystery named Milind. "Can I ask you something?" she had found Kaka to be a compassionate human being and found it best to inquire about Milind from him. "Yes child" Kaka had encouraged her stirring the vegetables in a pan on low heat "Who am I?" she had wanted to know much to Kaka's astonishment "Yes I am his wife but besides that... who am I?" she had looked up at him throuh hopeful eyes if he knew Milind he most definitely would know her too. Standing in the doorway clutching packets of fresh vegetables Raghu had heard her questions did that mean she had no recollection of the accident he had thought walking in. "Madam, sir has asked you to rest" he had intervened trying to get Kaka off the hook. "But I just awoke" she had protested "Raghu let her stay" Kaka had instructed whipping a cup of piping tea for her.
"Here now drink this you'll feel better" he had proferred it to her and she had thanked him for it. They would've continued with the conversation had Sukriti not walked in on them. Eyeing Prachi suspiciously she had walked in "Kaka don't wait for me at lunch I'll be away" she had informed him turning towards Prachi she had openly studied her then. "And who is this Kaka.... Milind bhaiyya's flavour of the month" she had smirked making Prachi choke on her tea. She looked up incredulously the girl was younger to her and appeared much younger to her husband she was dark skinned but had soft features deep black eyes like her brother's though her hair was different a bit straighter than her brother's. "Sukriti behave yourself" Kaka had admonished her and she had sighed "Enjoy him while it lasts" she had advised Prachi before stepping forward when she had stopped midway and had turned around to look at her again. "Oh by the way you'll need lesser clothes to entice him if that's what you are here for" she had laughed again before exiting the house altogether. Prachi's lower lip had trembled she believed that she had offended her husband but it was a different story altogether he certainly wasn't interested in her at all. Placing the cup on the kitchen table she had left the area biting her lower lip to hold back her tears she had run out of the lounge hoping to find solace in the expansive lawns outside only to smack straight against his broad chest. She had held his arm instinctively to keep herself from falling raising her dewy eyes to his attempting to comprehend the agitation they bore and failing at it yet again.
"I ... was feeling .. afraid" she had whispered sitting up straight though in the process her head had blown up in a zillion pieces all at once she had drawn in a sharp breath pain evident from her distorted expression as she put her palm to her forehead. "That nurse is gonna pay for this" Milind had sworn under his breath getting off the bed when he had felt a soft hand on his own. He traced it to her "It's not her fault please don't get mad at her" she had pleaded to him. "She's supposed to look after you that's what I bloody pay her for" Milind had shrugged her hand off and marched in the next room to storm on a fast asleep nurse Mala. The poor woman was a heavy sleeper and snored quite vehemently much to Prachi's inconvenience and discomfort, Prachi had tried to put up with the thunder and roll for quite some time but when it became quite impossible for her to do so she had decided to join her husband in their bedroom. She had tiptoed to his room miraculously he was just in the room next door she had found it quite rude to awaken him at her expense and avoided getting in bed with him rather had settled on the floor beside him with her hand holding onto him for assurance of him being there. She could hear him rant and rave at the flustered nurse and deep inside Prachi felt bad at having put her through this. She contemplated on returning to her room or not when the door to that room had flown open and Milind had stomped in sweeping her in his arms in one graceful move he had her nestled safely in them even though Prachi's ride was a short one it was memorable to her since it was the first one she remembered with vivid clarity. He seemed least bothered about her reaction or take on his actions settling her on the bed he had wanted to return to his own bedroom when he noticed her food tray untouched. "Have you had dinner?" he had inquired brusquely of her. "No" she had answered only to see the untamed fury in his eyes directed to her now. "Why" he had growled "How could I eat alone" she had counter questioned him. His eyes had narrowed then drilling their unhappy glare in her while she looked at him unaware of his thought process. "Well I didn't know you required company to dine" he had stated acidly turning to the nurse he had ordered her to make her eat something before making her take her pills and had left to catch up on his sleep.
The next morning Prachi had woken up with a heavy head though it did not pound like a wave crashing shore it certainly felt like lead. The night nurse had helped her walk up to the washroom Prachi longed to have a shower but her head injury wouldn't allow her that so she settled for a bath. Soaking her tired body in a fragrant tub of bubbles she had soaped herself luxuriantly taking in the ceramic fittings of the expansive bathroom complimenting the rich creamy colour that glowed in the soft amber lights making her feel as if she was a princess and had after the exercise felt much better. She had put on the bathrobe and had walked out to see the nurse await her with breakfast. "Is my husband home?" she had asked the servant waiting on her in return Raghu had stared at her in awe now who had told her to play along when master wasn't even around. "Milind sir isn't home" he had answered curtly not liking his master's bachelorhood being compensated on the whim of a dainty looking creature. Prachi had looked at him quite taken aback by his rather formal yet scathingly to the point answer somehow the feeling that she had wronged the man incharge in some inexplicable fashion had hit her home yet again. The nurse had placed the breakfast tray infront of her coaxing her to take her cereal and she had eaten mutely she remembered the cold dinner she had, had to have under the watchful eye of the same nurse the previous night it certainly hadn't been very appealing she had recollected sadly. After breakfast Prachi had been made to change in an expensive saree her hair brushed and braided she had left the room with her attendants for a trip to the hospital. She had taken in the bustling traffic that Mumbaii was so famous for her mind not registering any of it as familiar, she mused silently during her car ride trying to recollect her past but it just would not come to her. At the hospital her tests had run smoothly and the doctor had smiled as he saw her sit looking rather apprehensively at him "Mrs Mishra you'r going to be just fine" he had grinned good naturedly. "Your reports will in by evening but by the looks of it the wounds seem to be healing" he had carefully unwrapped Prachi's soiled bandage studying the tell tale cut meticulously wiping it clean he had bandaged it again. "Is there any other pain or problem you have experienced after the accident besides your head injury?" the doctor had asked mechanically taking her pressure.
"Actually doctor" Prachi had started hesitantly when the knowledgeable doctor's eyes had rested on her. "Yes Mrs Mishra" he was all ears and Prachi had felt like pouring her heart out to him she had sobbed then unable to understand herself at the point. Dismissing Raghu and the rather reluctant nurse from the room the doctor had made Prachi relax in her seat fetching her some water which she drank in small sips. "Now Mrs Mishra lets start from the beginning" he had smiled kindly Dr Mathur was an aged doctor who had seen many pleasant and not so pleasant cases in his thirty years of service as Senior Doctor at Mumbaii City Hospital. "Doctor my husband I think I might have upset him in some way but I cannot recall how...... I can't remember anything from before the accident" she had explained to him. 'I couldn't even remember his name" she had wept inconsolably this time as Dr Mathur had gazed at her thoughtfully. "Do you remember your own name?" he had asked her gently and Prachi's eyes had widened in horror uptill now she had assumed to have forgotten all details on Milind it was now that reality struck her with full force she was a lost soul who had no inkling of her own idenity. She clutched her head in agony her tears falling thick and fast watching her this way Dr Mathur had been forced to inject her with a sedative.
Milind sat poring over his sales reports for the last month his eyes reading beyond the printed word searching probing calculating. His fingers worked nimbly as he made notes on his laptop beside him usually his secretary worked alongside but today he couldn't even stand the sight of any woman and had worked on his own definitely more at peace. He had been receiving calls from various newpapers and channels since morning but he was kept in the dark about it only the most important calls were put through by Sharma while the rest were handled by him. Milind was a workaholic he usually was the first at the office in wake of his early attendance the janitor had made it a point to clean his office the first thing he did when he reached Mishra Towers. The hands on the clock had turned silently as Milind had smoked cigarette after cigarette his ash tray threatening to overflow with the heap of burnt stubs and ash he kept piling in it. It was evident he was immersed in his work so much so that he had quite forgotten that he had made it a point to have a word with the nurse after Prachi returned from her check up that morning. A shrill ring had pierced through the cool insides of his otherwise silent office he had been jostled out of his concentrated activity rubbing his forehead lightly he had mouthed a greeting in the cradle. "Sir some Dr Mathur wishes to speak to you" Sharma had informed him. "Do I know him?" he had asked stiffly "Sir he's the one your wife had an appointment with today" Sharma had reminded him "Put him through" Milind had instructed placing the phone back when it rung once again. "Milind Mishra speaking" he had replied coolly when Dr Mathur had asked to confirm if it was him. "I was wondering if you could drop by the hospital around lunch time, I was hoping to discuss you'r wife's condition with you in detail" Milind had frowned he still needed to study the papers in detail before he faxed them. "Fine I'll be there by two" and with that he had concluded the conversation. He had then called Sharma to take notes while he dictated them to him he certainly could not have the luxury of working on his own and at exactly two in the afternoon he was at Dr Mathur's cabin seating himself in one of the steel chairs opposite him. "How are you doing then Mr Mishra" Dr Mathur had opened up conversation though Milind had come straight to the point. "You said to wanted to discuss Prachi's health... what about it? How soon will she be back on her feet so that I may be relieved of my responsibility" Milind had asked wryly.
"First of all as a husband I had expected you to be more compassionate regarding your wife's ill health instead of considering her a mere responsibility. No wonder the girl is scared to death of you" Dr Mathur had informed Milind who didn't look at moved. "Tell me something I don't know doctor" Milind had kept the conversation flowing. "Well then her reports are back and she is progressing quite well physically" Dr Mathur had proceeded to rattle on with the various test reports "That means she's fine" Milind had cut him short. "I'm afraid no Mr Mishra she is definitely not fine" Dr Mathur had explained gently Milind had looked up at him questioningly to see him sigh "She's suffering from amnesia Mr Mishra..... her mind is a blank slate she does not recall anything not even her own name" Milind had tried to grasp the falling marble weight from his hand and had managed to clutch it before it hit the floor. Placing it back on the table he had exited the doctor's office mutely amnesia or not that woman was not staying with him at any cost. Her plight did not alter the fact that she was a female species, a member of the opposite sex, someone he could expend at the wave of a hand but not lose himself to.
Prachi had awoken up after a refreshing sleep and stretched herself languidly she couldn't recall ever coming back home and was unhappy to think that she had yet again failed to remember even simple tasks. Freshening up quickly she had made her way to the kitchen where she could smell wonderful cuisines being cooked to perfection. She peeped in the open doorway to find Ramu Kaka slice vegetables on a cutting board "Can I help you?" she had asked timidly making Ramu Kaka smile fondly at her. "Why not, come make yourself comfortable that will be help enough" he had joked pulling out a dining chair for her which she had accepted graciously. "Is he going to come for lunch?" she had inquired again "Who?" Ramu Kaka had asked confused by her query, now who did the he apply to. "My husband the man who is perenially angry at me" she had elaborated in a quiet voice. "Milind" Kaka had smiled yet again "Well he might since he was hoping to make it to your appointment today" Kaka had supplied her with information on the mystery named Milind. "Can I ask you something?" she had found Kaka to be a compassionate human being and found it best to inquire about Milind from him. "Yes child" Kaka had encouraged her stirring the vegetables in a pan on low heat "Who am I?" she had wanted to know much to Kaka's astonishment "Yes I am his wife but besides that... who am I?" she had looked up at him throuh hopeful eyes if he knew Milind he most definitely would know her too. Standing in the doorway clutching packets of fresh vegetables Raghu had heard her questions did that mean she had no recollection of the accident he had thought walking in. "Madam, sir has asked you to rest" he had intervened trying to get Kaka off the hook. "But I just awoke" she had protested "Raghu let her stay" Kaka had instructed whipping a cup of piping tea for her.
"Here now drink this you'll feel better" he had proferred it to her and she had thanked him for it. They would've continued with the conversation had Sukriti not walked in on them. Eyeing Prachi suspiciously she had walked in "Kaka don't wait for me at lunch I'll be away" she had informed him turning towards Prachi she had openly studied her then. "And who is this Kaka.... Milind bhaiyya's flavour of the month" she had smirked making Prachi choke on her tea. She looked up incredulously the girl was younger to her and appeared much younger to her husband she was dark skinned but had soft features deep black eyes like her brother's though her hair was different a bit straighter than her brother's. "Sukriti behave yourself" Kaka had admonished her and she had sighed "Enjoy him while it lasts" she had advised Prachi before stepping forward when she had stopped midway and had turned around to look at her again. "Oh by the way you'll need lesser clothes to entice him if that's what you are here for" she had laughed again before exiting the house altogether. Prachi's lower lip had trembled she believed that she had offended her husband but it was a different story altogether he certainly wasn't interested in her at all. Placing the cup on the kitchen table she had left the area biting her lower lip to hold back her tears she had run out of the lounge hoping to find solace in the expansive lawns outside only to smack straight against his broad chest. She had held his arm instinctively to keep herself from falling raising her dewy eyes to his attempting to comprehend the agitation they bore and failing at it yet again.
Part 6
Steadying herself Prachi had torn her wet eyes from his strikingly handsome yet stoned face releasing his arm she had turned around and left for her room not a word was exchanged between the two but Milind could see she was upset. He had sauntered up to his room behind her quite forgetful of the temporary invasion it had been subjected to. Reaching there he was momentarily taken aback to see her balled on the bed clutching a pillow to herself shedding tears in the comfort of solitude, he had cast a wary look at her and after slipping off his jacket had tugged at his shirt buttons releasing himself of his imprisoning garments.
Pushing off his shoes he rolled off his socks and walked in the ceramic confines of the washroom, turning the knob open he had let himself be drenched in a fresh shower of icy cold water droplets. He leaned his heavy frame on his out stretched arms resting against the tiled wall dropping his head low he felt the cool serenity of being cleansed he had closed his eyes then. Of the time that he relaxed the most was when he took his cold showers he loved nature and prior to turning into a shelled oyster he had spent a large part of his life travelling. His most favourite haunts had been cascading waterfalls and he had visited quite a few dotted over the world in his lifetime, a mad attempt to purify his soul. He absolutely loved standing beneath the rush of water as it swept down pouring on him and somehow his daily showers in the washroom made him travel back to a point in time when he had enjoyed life if not to the hilt but at least to an extent of making it worth reminiscing. Water dripped down his back and he had arched then letting it beat down his well toned chest gasping as it made way into his nose and open mouth. After about thirty minutes he had finished his shower towelling himself dry he had slipped on his jet black bath robe tying the cord around his waist firmly he stepped out. He saw her stand beside the wardrobe rummaging through his clothing line he couldn't help noticing how small she actually was she had withdrawn from within it and had walked upto him silently. Mutely she had handed him his kurta and jeans to change in and he had gazed at her surprised he didn't remember asking her to get him anything nonetheless since those were the exact items he would've pulled out himself he had accepted them.
"You feeling any better now?" he had asked gruffly causing her to startle "Yes" she had murmured "Good since once you are better we can concentrate on getting you home" he had told her pulling off his robe. Prachi who had just started to comprehend the words well and home had been stunned to see him stand there in nothing but his boxers while he appeared least bothered. Prachi's cheeks had coloured instantly all thoughts dispelled as she stood rooted gaping at him seconds later she realized he was watching her his eyes intensely brooding and inscrutable were fixed on her and her gaze had dropped immediately her eyes had though not forgotten to catch a fleeting glance of his well sculpted pectoral abs that stretched and flexed as he worked with his kurta. For Milind self consciousness was something he had been made to do away with when he was fifteen that was when he had lost his virginity not though at will something he still regretted. Prachi had swiftly exited the room then Milind had watched her retreating form he had noticed the change in her expression that had occurred due to his careless exercise well it was his room and she had been the intruder in his view his act was quite justified. Pulling on his jeans he had zipped it and running his fingers through his still wet hair he had joined Kaka in the kitchen. "How is my darling doing?" he had asked Kaka pinching his cheeks in mirth.
Kaka on the other hand had felt quite irritated on being termed as a darling infront of audience and had swatted Milind's arm with the spoon he held making him aware of Prachi's presence in the dining area. Prachi had looked up at Milind quite puzzled to hear his terms of endearment for the old servant this was certainly not the Milind she had been used to seeing since the past two days. Milind had pulled out a chair and turned his plate waiting for Kaka to serve him Kaka had handed Prachi the rice dish and had nudged her to do the honours. Placing the dish on the table Prachi had piled the zafran pilau in Milind's plate with trembling hands afraid that he might just leave in that instant. On the contrary Milind had picked up a spoon and had dug in the pilau he was most certainly famished and who served him was the least of his concerns then. Prachi had next spooned some kheer in a bowl for him and had poured out a glass of water Kaka who had been watching all this from his position behind the counter had smiled. He could see that Prachi was fulfilling her duties as his wife though Milind could not register them as he had never been subjected to any such gestures from any of the women that had or had been residing in the house. Milind was all Kaka had thought, lived and breathed for the past thirty years even his smile was a treasure to him though it was seldom that he saw him wear one. Prachi had found Kaka lost in his thoughts she had gently held his arm and brought him to the table making him sit beside Milind she had served him too before filling her own plate up and taking a seat opposite them.
Lunch was more normal an affair than Prachi had considered it to be she noticed Milind was relaxed in Kaka's presence and the old man too doted on him as a father on his own son. After the meal Milind had made himself comfortable in the TV lounge switching on the life size plasma he concentrated on the Forex Business reports the current recession had him worried but it hadn't hit India yet with full force. The tv lounge was visible from where Prachi stood stirring contents in a kettle brewing up a strong tea, Kaka had cleaned up after lunch and she had insisted on making tea for them. She noticed Milind had mood swings sometimes they were high strung leaving him sarcastic and stark raving mad though she still had not been able to figure out what triggered them. She understood she too was enlisted in his list of perpetrators but she ranked far below in the list since her presence hardly registered a mark on him. To him she was a nobody and it puzzled her to think what exactly could have happened in their marriage to cause it to disintegrate to such an extent. The tea had been made and bubbled impatiently in the kettle snapping out of her thought train she had poured it out in cups and placing his cup in a tray advanced towards where he sat on the sofa. As she handed the scalding mixture to him he had raised his eyes to her "We have servants in the house to do this you should be resting" he had reminded her contritely. "Have I offended you in any way?Why is it that you remain so maddened at me... " she had asked him thoroughly perplexed and for a split second she had felt his eyes soften swirling within a mist of emotions as they settled on her assessing her anew. She stood receptively alert awaiting his answer which ofcourse never came on the contrary he concentrated on flipping channels his fingers fiddled with the small pads on the remote increasing the volume of the appliance and she heard the lounge fill with the soulful voice of Kishore Kumar.
Kisi baat per main kisi sey khafa huun
Main zinda huun per zindagi sey khafa huun
Na jaaney kahaan kab kissey dekhta huun
Magar aye jahaan jab jissey dekhta huun.
Samajhta hai woh main ussi sey khafa huun.
Khafa huun khafa huun khafa huun
Kisi baat per main kisi sey khafa huun.
I am upset at something
I am alive but am upset with life
I don't know who I watch when and why
But whoever I see thinks I am upset at them
She realized that was all the answer she would be getting from him the song had finished but its lyrics haunted her she could not understand his thought process he was a puzzle with a million pieces to it and try as she might she couldn't quite possibly even start to fit it all together. Handing Kaka his tea she had taken her cup out in the sultry afternoon shining vibrantly on the sprawling greens outside the mansion, they looked breath taking and Prachi had smiled as a cool breeze had greatly diminished the effects of the beating sun. She strolled through the narrow path that led to an opening in the lawns stepping on the carpet of grass she had pulled off her slippers and let her feet sink in the penetrable softness of the cushioned tufts of grass. There were rows of trees mostly palms that sprung quite high clusters of ripe coconuts hanging from the crowned tops temptingly. A few benches were erected around the length and breadth of it and Prachi had casually walked over to one sipping on her tea feeling happy in a very long time, she smiled to herself watching a bunch of magpies hop around her.
The lawns were peppered with flower beds creating a kaleidoscope of hues and patterns Prachi looked on bewitched at the neat rows of daffodils, primroses, morning glories, pansies and forget me nots trimmed and pruned artistically what caught her attention though were the large sunflowers smiling up at the sun their seedy faces upturned towards the west. Prachi had run up to the flower beds smelling the flowers their sweet fragrance filling her being she felt as if she had been transported to heaven itself. Milind had after cruising through the channels aimlessly felt it best to take a nap his appointments having been cancelled he had taken for home unable to concentrate on the mounding paperwork that adorned his desk, it was trivial work nothing that demanded his attention yet he had made it a point to check all the paperwork himself over the years he had come to know work left to others always remained undone. He had returned to his room then finding it closed tight he had thrown open the windows it was only then that he had spotted Prachi smiling in adoration of his gardener's handiwork. He was caught in the moment observing her from the spacious interior of his room leaning on the wall he had folded his arms on his chest and had closed his eyes tiredly, he certainly needed a rest.
Pushing way all errant thoughts from his mind he had plopped on his bed hugging the pillow to him he had fallen in a dreamless sleep almost immediately. Prachi had returned from her excursion happy and blissful she had found Milind resting and had retreated noiselessly she felt bored and for the first time since her arrival clueless on her next activity. Kaka too had retired for the afternoon. Prachi despaired sitting in the lounge all aone when she consequently felt a movement beside her she looked up to see an elderly looking man peer at her inquisitively. Prachi had moved back with a start was he an intruder her mind had questioned but the heavy security at the gates would not allow her to consider this an option. Taking his seat beside her he had smiled warm heartedly causing Prachi to return the gesture "You must be Prachi...... my daughter in law" he had stated and it was then that Prachi came to know of his esteemed position in the house and in the family. "Sorry I thought you were" she had apologized on her fright "It's ok I usually don't venture out of my room but I had seen you in the garden earlier and thought I would meet you". Prachi studied the old man resolutely he was quite a contrast to her dark and brooding husband his skin was fair tinged with peachy pink his eyes were a greyish brown and his balding head was fringed with silvery hair on the sides. "I.. haven't seen you earlier... I'm sorry I should've known" she had apologized again and he had laughed softly "I'm sure my son hasnt been very informative on his family has he?" and Prachi had shaken her head in the affirmative. "He is just so busy and its not his fault after my accident I have forgotten everything including basic facts regarding myself, how can I hold him responsible for not telling me anything. He must have and I must've forgotten" she had explained softly and Mishraji had been taken aback by her gentle self admonishment.
"Well then you can start afresh" Mishraji had patted her head affectionately and she had smiled in pleasure they had chatted then on almost everything from the names of the various flowers in the gardens outside to the books stacked in the library on the upstairs floor. Prachi had been overjoyed to hear about the library she had probably enjoyed reading prior to the accident she mused happy on being able to discover new aspects to her personality. Mishraji though had steered clear on her questions relating to Milind's rather sour and distant relationship with his family he certainly did not wish to overwhelm his daughter in law with her husband's dark past he wanted her settled with his son for good. It was high time Milind found anchorage to weigh the ship of his life down, steady it against the storms of afflictions that he had single handedly braved through time. "Shall I make you tea?" she had asked of her father in law he had denied the offer and had stood up to leave "Will you join us for dinner ?" she had inquired to which Mishraji had answered in the negative leaving her contemplating on the reason for denial.
Prachi had not realized how time had flown in the presence of her kind father in law she saw the evening settling in and decided to check on Milind if he had indeed woken up she thought it best to have a talk with him, it was high time she started taking his negligence seriously before it paved way to separation an idea that certainly wasn't appealing to Prachi. She had entered the room to see him slumbering still lying on his back his curls falling over his forehead his arms stretched out beside him she smiled he was so vulnerable in sleep. She perched on the matress studying him intently trying to wonder what would have the reason for their union, had it been love? Or was it a match fixed by his father? Was he forced to marry her? Was this the reason he remained aloof of her her existence. She shook her head to do away with the consuming thoughts light from the open windows allowed her to study him at leisure she could hear him breathe gently his lips were most attractive after his strikingly captivating eyes in her opinion. She noticed the bump on his forehead and the cut his lip bore feeling vexed with her ignorance on his plight she had walked upto the dresser and pulled out the drawer picking up the first aid kit she had seen the nurse deposit there earlier she had switched on the lamp. With a tender hand she had brushed back his curls revealing his clear forehead and had pressed the bump lightly to guage the extent of the swelling.
It had turned a nasty brown colour now squeezing the ointment tube she had applied a bit on his skin and had massaged it in carefully though all of it had appeared to be futile since he had snapped his eyes open in an instant the pain obviously relevant a factor in his awakening. "You" he had wanted to say when she had placed her hand on his mouth barring him from uttering another syllable. "Why didn't you tell me you were hurt?" she had asked only to receive a well earned glare from him as her hand still rested on his mouth. "Sorry" she had whispered smiling releasing his lips from her captivity she noticed the cut on his upper lip and had traced it lightly "What do I apply here?" she had asked him perplexed and his eyebrows had knit together. "You'r the one doing first aid" he had pointed out and she had smiled yet again fishing for another ointment from the box she had applied a small dab of it on his cut and he had winced instinctively "Does it hurt?" she had inquired blowing on it gently her own lips inches away from his. She could feel his fiery breath on her as he breathed in close proximity her eyes had lifted to his then for most of their conversations she had read his eyes accurately but right now they were dark... darker than the pits of botomless wells unveiled and enigmatic she gazed on mesmerized. His hand had lifted and had traced the entire length of her jaw she felt soft... softer than a million rose petals put together.
She had blushed then her cheeks flushed as it deepened and she had lowered her gaze shyly, in that one moment she had looked simply breath taking to him. The magical moment would've carried on had the door not burst open that precise moment as they both looked up a skimpily dressed babe had walked in on them Prachi had straightened immediately while Milind resumed his position. Dropping her purse on the bed the woman had proceeded to stretch herself against him on the bed closing in for a full lipped kiss on his mouth, "Milind darling did you forget our date tonight or what?" she had complained seductively. Prachi had stared in horror at the other woman she had expected Milind to push away the demonic creature on the contrary he had appeared pleasantly relaxed in the woman's company. Tears had started to swim in Prachi's eyes as she had looked at Milind in wonder what sort of a womanizer had she married, unable to bear the sight she had stood up in rage. Pushing Milind's hand away from her face she had tried to steady herself but the sudden act had rendered her dazed moreover she had forgotten to take her medication that afternoon and that had certainly proved fateful, the room had started spinning and before she could understand her dizzy spell she had passed out ending in a heap on the floor.
Part 7
Milind had woken up with a start to see Prachi fall on the floor pushing Kamya away he had lowered himself off the bed to check on Prachi who seemed to have slipped in a unconscious state. Picking her up in his robust arms he had placed her on the bed. "Get off from there Kamya" he had growled he was in no mood for entertainment Kamya's sudden appearance had left him provoked and what had followed had irked him to a considerable extent. Had it been any other situation Milind would have had spent an impassive evening with Kamya but right now there were other pressing issues to take care of. "Who the hell asked you to come here?" he had lashed at a visibly irritated Kamya "You did you moron!" she had retaliated in a tone matching his. "You should've told me you had another one lined up for tonight made me waste soild cash with Malhotra" she had whipped at him. "You better pay me Mishra I spent time and effort getting ready for you" she had demanded placing her hands on her hips she stood glaring him. "It's just the bloody money isn't it" Milind had snapped bitingly fumbling for his wallet he had pulled out a wad of notes and thrown it at her feet.
"Take this and get out" he had instructed her Kamya had scooped up the money and had clicked out of his room with her taken care of Milind had bent down to study Prachi. She seemed fine but Milind knew that she was a storm in a teacup her inner turmoil had not escaped him though he had chosen to turn a blind eye to it initially. There was no respite from this self churned mess he had to get her checked picking up his cell he had called Dr Mathur "Yes doctor this is Milind Mishra speaking, I was wondering if you could drop by my house." Dr Mathur obviously not expecting such a call had been worried about Prachi's health and had inquired about it promptly. The vulnerable young girl had come across as rather helpless to him and her beast of a husband hadn't impressed him with his act of aloofness over her health. He wondered if Milind had been the one responsible for her ill health in the first place. Nonetheless he had committed to dropping by in around twenty minutes his duty hours at the hospital being over with he had found it best to check on Prachi before heading for home. Covering her with a blanket Milind had proceeded to complete some of his work switching on his laptop he made himself comfortable on one of the soft couches in the room and had started typing away smoking heavily. So engrossed was he in his work that he hardly registered time passing by and it appeared to him that only a few seconds had passed whence he had called the good doctor who now stood knocking at the door impatiently. Putting out his cigarette in the ash tray he had stood up and opened the door inviting the doctor in. Milind could not comprehend the admonishing stare Dr Mathur had given him when he had found the room clouded in stale cigarette smoke not that he cared anyways.
Thrusting his hands in his jean pockets he stood near the bed as Dr Mathur inspected Prachi's eyes shining a beam of torch light at them, next he monitored her blood pressure the results obviously were not to his liking. "When did she last take her medication Mr Mishra?" Dr Mathur had asked an oblivious Milind. "I actually don't know..." Milind had started when he had been cut short by the aged doctor "Do you know that she has skipped her medication which in her condition can prove to be fatal. If I had known any better you definitely are the cause of this" he had pointed his finger at Milind which ofcourse had not gone down well with Milind at all. "Listen here doctor you'r supposed to bloody check her not accuse me" he had asserted. "I know exactly what I am supposed to do Mr Mishra it is because of men like you that women in our society are forced to commit major crimes like suicide. You had better pay keen attention to her health because if you don't I will personally see to it that you rot behind bars for ill treating your wife. Had it not been for your cold behaviour she would not have broken down infront of a complete stranger lamenting on the fact that she had offended you in some way. Instead of helping her through this difficult phase you are making it quite impossible for her to recover." Milind stood shocked to hear the doctor reprimand him who the hell was he to talk to him in that tone that too standing under his roof and if that wasn't enough he was threatening him to getting him jailed for ill treating his wife, what bloody wife he wasn't even married to that fool. "Damn you doctor just give her the medication and get lost I'll see to it that she gets medication from elsewhere" he had made it clear to the doctor that his services were no longer required. "No Mr Mishra YOU WILL do as I say or I will go to the press first thing after I leave from here" and that had caused Milind to grit his teeth. As it was the press had tagged her as his mysterious wife and if this doctor went ahead and fed them gossip on him ill treating her he would definitely be in a precarious position.
"What do you want?" Milind had inquired fiercely "I want you to stop troubling her, make her feel comfortable, make her feel loved and don't press for her to remember her past her condition is extremely fragile. If indeed you force her to remember anything it may cause her to stress her nerves resulting in a nervous breakdown and in her case it would be irrepairable turning her into a vegetable. So it is for your own betterment when I ask you to take care of her." The doctor's tone had greatly softened now somehow Prachi reminded him of his own daughter Pooja whom he had lost in a car crash two years back. Both the men had rested their eyes on her angelic face she seemed to be in anguish her face wearing a slight wince. "See to it that she eats healthy food when she wakes up and try getting her outdoors with all this smoke she might not be able to get better in the next fifty years" Dr Mathur had eyed Milind warily. "Just take care of her" he had advised Milind yet again before administering her with an injection. Milind had groaned inwardly this was certainly not the way he had planned her stay he had wanted to ask her about her whereabouts, her family, her past now it would all have to be put on a hold till she was better. God damn it he had kicked the bed side hard and in that instant Prachi had awoken, the doctor had left by then and in the pale gold light that streamed in the room Prachi could see he wasn't very happy to see her that way. Their eyes had met then and Milind could make out the faint glisten that shone in hers she had though rolled over to her side and had closed them shut indicating her displeasure on his presence beside her. "Fine" he had muttered stomping out of the room Prachi had heard him bang the door in rage on his way out even though she knew he did not care it hurt her to think that she did not sum to much importance in his life. Kamya's appearance hadn't left a good mark on her and part of her feminine pride had been brutally crushed to see her husband entertain another without a second thought to her presence beside him. She had involuntarily replayed the kiss he had shared with that bimbo within her mind causing her heart to bleed she tried hard to find a reason for his withdrawal on their relationship yet it all appeared in vain. Her mental strain had caused her to feel ill all the more and she had sobbed herself to sleep.
It hadn't been long when Milind realized that she might fall asleep without yet having her medication the faster she healed the faster he could dispose her off he had returned to the room to find her indeed in a deep slumber. "Prachi" he had called out to her "Prachi" he repeated when she did not stir he had shaken her arm lightly. Prachi had woken up to see him stand beside her, her anger had still not subsided and she had turned her face away yet again this time though he was not going to let her off the hook easily.He was in no mood to stand hand and foot on her while she threw her childish tantrums in his opinion. "Get up" he had ordered in a voice that betrayed his agitation and she had been compelled to gaze at him, his commanding figure standing impatiently beside her. When she still showed no signs of movement he had in a fit of burning temper snatched the blanket off her and picked her up in his arms. "Till you'r in my house you are going to do exactly what I want you to do" his tone though low was menacing kicking the washroom door open he had made her stand beside the basin. "Five minutes and I want you down at the table" he had held up his open palm his fingers numbering the minutes he had granted her as an act of absolute generosity on his part.
He had turned then leaving her alone and upset she had wept desperately sitting on the side of the bath tub what had she done to deserve such criminal treatment if he despised her to such an extent why did he just not get rid of her. Tears streamed through the gaps in her fingers as she covered her face crying pitifully her head hurt and all she wanted then was to curl up into a ball under the covers but she knew disobeying him was not an option. Standing up with a herculean effort she had splashed cold water on her face in an attempt to awaken her still asleep mind. She stared at her haggard form in the mirror afore her, her eyes were puffy there were bits of red in them indicating their tiredness. Rinsing her mouth thoroughly she had closed the tap wiping her face clean she had run a casual brush through her hair and had pulled it into a loose braid taking a deep breath she had stepped on the staircase and descended it slowly. Pulling out a chair she had sit opposite him feeling his intense gaze on her avoiding eye contact with him she had concentrated on the soup Kaka had placed before her staring at it disappointedly. "Drink!" had come a sharp command from across the table and Prachi had dipped the spoon in the thick and scalding hot mixture immediately. She would've placed it in her mouth next had Milind not held her hand "Its too hot" he had remarked and she had looked up at him then unable to understand his actions. She felt her hand sizzle under his strong hold and their eyes had collided. In that moment she had felt a softness grace his gaze then "Let it cool" he had instructed her before unfolding his napkin and placing it on his lap. She had resigned to watching him for the next ten minutes trying her best to comprehend his thoughts though it seemed to be quite an impossible feat. After his first words to her he had busied himself in eating rarely glancing at her. She had delved herself in the mundane exercise of placing food in her mouth without any intentional effort to register the taste or texture.
Milind had looked up to find her eyes focused on her plate shuffling rice with her spoon "I asked you to eat not play around with the food" he had drawled. "I'm done" she had remarked highly strung pushing her chair back she had wished to retreat to the safety of her room when she had felt a heavy hand on her waist and in a smooth motion he had her infront of him captive, attentive and very much at his disposition. "You finish when I say you finish" he had breathed heavily on her face despite the primary wish to free herself Prachi had in that one moment been aware of a nagging yet disturbing feeling of being drawn to him. She had gasped then as he looked within her soul interpreting the cold sweat that had broken on her brow and she had lowered her gaze afraid of giving herself away in an instant. Releasing her Milind had noticed her tremble slightly was it due to fear or the extreme proximity he had just let her be subjected to he had wondered whatever the cause it had tamed her considerably crushing the furor and angst he had witnessed in her being earlier. Kaka had yet again been a silent observer of this encounter he had certainly been caught off guard when Milind had stopped Prachi from supping the hot soup, such concern was not known of him yet he had succumbed to the moment allowing himself to actually and for once care without having to think of what benefit he could extract out of it. Prachi sat silent as Kaka scooped icecream for her in a crystal bowl she had smiled then her eyes twinkling "Icecream" she had squealed and Milind had felt something stir within him. Prachi had thanked Kaka for being so kind as to treat her to such a delicacy and had dug in the rich creamy dessert relishing it her anguish had vaporized and she sat as happy as a lark licking the contents off her spoon like a two year old. A small smile had formed on Milind's lips as he saw her immersed in the activity he had left the table then his portion untouched maybe if he stayed he might ruin the perfect moment and with that thought he had risen. As they finished the meal the nurse had entered for her nightly vigil and Milind had given her explicit instructions to make Prachi have her medication before putting her to bed.
That night Prachi had tossed and turned in her bed the rigorous snoring on the nurse's part had her wishing she could get ear plugs and finally when the snores were beyond her bearing she had sit up in bed wide awake. Pushing away the covers she had stood up and walked to the doorway opening it wide she had stepped out in the corridor unable to decide what to do she made up her mind to check on her husband if luck was smiling she might be able to sneak a good night's sleep on his bed. Tiptoeing towards his room she had peeked in to find him burning the midnight oil working furtively on the laptop his eyes glued to the screen taking breaks in between to puff on an occassional cigarette. She screwed up her nose as the heavy waft of smoke reached it. He seemed pensive and Prachi had smiled to see him that way she had come to understand that he was quite a good human being, beneath his rough exterior there was a generous man. Making her way to the kitchen she had snapped on the lights brewing two cups of strong coffee for the both of them, minutes later she had strained the liquid and had ascended the stairs. Milind had proceeded to finalize the document when he heard a soft knock on the door looking up he was puzzled to see Prachi stand there, leaning back in his chair he had frowned however he had nodded in reluctant encouragement granting her permission to step in.
Approaching him she had offered him the aromatic coffee and he had smiled admonishing himself harshly the very next minute. Putting it to his lips he had supped in relief closing his eyes savouring the sweet bitterness as it slid down his throat. "Thanks" he had mumbled and she had smiled in acknowledgement "Why are you working so late?" she had questioned him her fingers tracing the lip of the cup "Have a meeting tomorrow" he had replied briskly rubbing his eyes leaning in on the appliance again. She had taken her seat on his bed and out of the corner of his eye he could see she was mustering up courage to ask him another question. "Why are you still awake?" he had inquired eyes still trained on the screen. "That nurse won't let me sleep" she had complained softly "Snoring again?" he had asked plainly though Prachi could swear his eyes had twinkled and she had merely nodded her head. "You can sleep here I'll be working as it is" he had offered her respite and she had sighed in much awaited relief. "Who was that girl that you kissed this evening" she had finally asked her voice though soft was laced with moisture and he could see she had blinked her eyes countless times to keep her tears at bay. "A friend" he had answered calculatively "Do you have many friends like her?" she had questioned him next "Yes" he had answered truthfully making her gaze at him with an undoubted inebriation etched over her face. The revelation in itself was too much for her to handle and she had placed her half drunk coffee on the bedside table before curling up on the bed shivering beneath the sheets. Try as she would she not stop the continual flow of tears that threatened to expose her otherwise calm demeanour, she tried to shush herself telling herself that it was his life and she was but a mere association to him. He had watched her with a feeling of grim satisfaction maybe it was better this way that she build no hopes around him and chain his otherwise carefree spirit though part of him knew he had wronged he could have lied told her that she was a colleague deranged and a lunatic. But then nearly all his aquaintances would have to be labelled as lunatics he himself was not a sane man either in his opinion having lost his balance of mind when he was fifteen life had after that turned into a ghoulish nightmare that had dragged him within a deep mire of shame and guilt. He had tried to concentrate on his report but failed to find the interest that could harness his otherwise dispersed thoughts, clicking his lap top shut he had trudged over to her side to see her tear stained face deep in slumber. Had he been a vicious beast again hurt someone because he himself had found no peace, his fingers had involuntarily carressed her cheek wiping away the remnants of fresh tears that graced them. Smoothing her errant strands he had tucked them behind her ear pulling the blanket upto her waist he had retired to the couch in the room tomorrow was yet another day.
Part 8
Prachi had awoken to hear his deep voice resonant in the room he was probably talking to someone on the phone "Yes we need him on the committee ... raise the offer if he still doesn't comply break a few bones" clicking his cell shut he had slipped on his Belmonte pants. Prachi had risen yawning she checked the time piece to find it only six in the morning. "You'r going" it was a surprised statement rather than a question "Office" had come a precise answer. "But it's only six in the morning" she had exclaimed astonished to see him up and dressed at such an early hour. "And the sun rises at six, I like to rise with the sun" he had replied conveniently skipping the trivial detail that his insomnia rendered him sleepless for most of the nights and he was awake whether he liked it or not. Putting on his shirt and buttoning it methodically he dismissed the facts imperiously. By the time Prachi had returned from the washroom he had finished getting dressed and was hell bent on knotting his Carlo- Franco tie which by no means seemed an easy task in his large hands. Watching him struggle with it Prachi had stepped forward holding the silken fabric in her gentle hands she had peered at his amused face seeking permission and he had snorted in approval.
Focusing on the task at hand Prachi had expertly swung the loop knotting the tie with perfect finesse, smoothing it back against the stark whiteness of his shirt she had looked up to see his eyes riveted on her. It was a brief moment that had lapsed between them but it had been enough to provide him insight on the fact that he was capable of invoking sentiments in her. Her eye lids had fluttered in a dazed confession of her vulnerable disposition. Her hands still rested on the lapels of his jacket she was entranced by his bewitching gaze that seemed to transport her to an elevated level of self consciousness and a jarring awareness of him near her. She felt her cheeks grow warm and he had seen them turn pink there was a profound simplicity in her being that interested him but that was just about it, she was merely an object of interest and that was how it was going to be. Stepping away he had turned to glance himself in the mirror atop the cherry wood dresser nodding his head slightly as if approving her handiwork he had left the room. Prachi too had followed him downstairs the house lay undisturbed a definite silence etched over it. Milind had frowned in casual observation by this time each day Kaka would be ready with his piping hot scrambled eggs and buttered toasts complete with his coffee but today the kitchen lay untouched devoid of any human activity. Placing his laptop and files on the dining table he had proceeded to one of the inner rooms occupied by his faithful servant, as quite unexpected of him Kaka lay sleeping his breathing shallow. Milind had carefully checked his forehead to find it burning to the touch the old man was sick and had not found enough strength to awake and perform his daily chores. "Milind" he had grunted in recognition as his hand had rested on the old man's face touching it lovingly "Kaka" he had managed his voice a hoarse whisper.
"I'm fine" the sick being had assured him but he could see the truth was far from it "You'r not going to put your foot down from this bed till I return" he had ordered the servant before standing up on his own two feet. From the open doorway Prachi had witnessed the entire ordeal first hand Milind had once again been successful in intriguing her, how could a man so self involved and intolerant bear the patience and compassion to attend to his ailing servant. There was definitely more than met the eye to the enigma named Milind Mishra she had watched him flip out his cell and bark instructions to his manager to send a doctor to his place without further ado. Sauntering out he had missed her by inches and she had scurried off after him her curiosity leading her on "The doctor will be here in a few minutes get Kaka checked and make him have something" he had instructed her before collecting his things from the dining table itself. "But your breakfast" she had reminded him breathless in his perusal and he had gazed at her in momentary thought. "You've got ten minutes do whatever you can do" he had scrolled his gaze to his watch as if telling her that her time had started Prachi knew ten minutes was all she could get. Practically running to the refrigerator she pulled out the egg tray, butter slab, milk carton and bread. Popping the bread slices in the toaster she placed the kettle on the stove boiling water for tea, next she put the pan with a knob of butter on low flame whipping up two eggs with finely sliced onions and chilli powder with a dash of salt.
Pouring the egg mixture in the pan she let it cook slowly adding tea leaves and sugar to the boiling water. The toasts had popped by now and she had buttered them generously placing them in a plate, she tended to the omelet flipping it on the other side letting it be evenly done. The boiling liquid had milk added to it and placing another set of slices in the toaster she had pushed down the catch. Moments later the tea had frothed and she had strained it in cups picking the omelet up she let the excess butter drain off before placing it in a plate. The second round of toasts had been done by then and she had added them to the already buttered ones. Depositing the items on the table in a maximum of eight minutes she had managed to impress him with her agility speed and skill in the culinary department. He had pushed an eager fork in the omelet and slicing chunks of it had enjoyed the mouth watering cuisine to the hilt, she noticed he ate heartily which made her believe she had indeed passed in her first test. Picking up a buttered toast she nibbled on it quietly observing him while he remained engrossed in filling himself on the finely done toasts and rather remarkable blend of tea. As he drained the contents in his cup the doctor had been showed in by Raghu in a flash Milind had been by his side leading him to Kaka's room. After checking Kaka thoroughly the doctor had ruled out the fever resulting due to negligance on his part for failing to tend to his incessant cough and flu it was viral and would take it's time to subside. "A week the most, he'll need rest though ... plenty of it" the doctor had informed Milind jotting down prescriptions on his note pad he tore of the page and handed it to an awaiting Milind. "Monitor his dosage it will benefit him" saying so the doctor had taken his leave and so had Milind but not before instructing Prachi to look after Kaka.
"Will you be coming home for lunch?" Prachi had asked walking to the frontdoor alongside him. "Most probably" he had replied donning his shades "What should I cook for you?" she had inquired unaware of his tastes and preferances regarding dining. "You'r not here to slave in the kitchen" he had rested his eyes on her milk washed face "Then what am I here for?" she had inquired flustered and very much confounded by his dogmatic replies to her genuine queries. "You'r here to heal" he had pressed on the issue in an attempt to abstain her from any menial chores his heart would not allow him to let her be treated as a maid. "You or me?" she had questioned softly this time her eyes searching his countenance and for a split second Prachi had felt his searing gaze rest on her even though his eyes were shielded by the guarding cover of his sunshades she could well imagine the darkness settling in them which was custom to him whence in anger. He had found it best to avert the question "I've already had the omelet so you can try something different" he had murmured before getting in his Audi and driving away beyond the gates of their abode. Breathing in deeply Prachi had watched the car till it faded in the distance how was she ever going to understand him she had wondered walking with heavy steps towards the interior of the still very quiet house. Checking on Kaka she had made him take rusks with tea before Raghu had handed her his medication and she had made him take it too before tucking him in bed again.
Milind had soon forgotten about the early morning interrogation as his office loomed in view and had set his mind to the excessive amount of paperwork awaiting him. Flipping through documents he had asked Sharma to read the day's appointments for him "Sir you have a meeting with Pierre Ferrego this afternoon they wish to close the deal today" and Milind had smiled something he rarely did causing Sharma to stare at him openly. "If you keep staring at me like that Sharma you'll be typing your resignation soon" he had muttered softly yet the edginess was evident in the manner he had threatened a rather ashamed Sharma. "Plan a party at eight at Carlton" he had further appalled Sharma "What's the occassion Sir?" Sharma had asked ludicrously and Milind had smiled widely this time relaxing in his oversized plush leather swivel chair though it seemed just the right size for him ."You do not love your job Sharma.... do you" he had asked eyebrows raised lips smiling mocking Sharma. "Yes Sir...... the guest list?" he had inquired "Shouldn't you know that by now?" Milind had challenged him further hand poised gracefully underneath his chin he studied a threatened Sharma enjoying the bullying to the hilt. It was incredulous how he could make him employees pee in their pants without lifting so much as a finger. Bowing his head low Sharma had taken his leave quite aware of the fact that his master was in no jocular mood rather was testing him he had been through such a criterion many a time and each time Milind had managed to catch him offguard.
One would think that he would give a damn to the job to be soo underjudged and criticised would have left him torn and abashed yet here was was obeying orders because he knew that underneath all that iron and grit was an equally mellow heart ready to extend any help to any employee in any need what so ever and that was what bound the employees at Mishra Group of companies to their jobs and their rather unique employer.... their unwavering trust in him. Completing his work Milind had proceeded to wear his jacket and picking up his files had left for the boardroom where yet another fate awaited to be sealed when his initials stained the papers closing the coveted deal. Back at Mishra mansion Prachi had come to taste her first real encounter with the world as his better half after he had left she had made herself yet another cup of tea and had taken it outside in the lawns the fresh morning breeze had helped relax her otherwise tensed muscles to a large extent. She sat humming a melody that had entered her mind instinctively her hair frolicking in the gentle wind that seemed to have taken an instant liking to it she would've sat there longer had Raghu not interrupted her train of thought. "Madame the laundry man is here you need to give him master's clothes" he had informed her "your master's clothes" she had repeated brows arched oh yes well why not afterall she was his better half and it was her duty to sort his soiled clothes from the better ones categorize them by size and type and hand them to the laundryman. Standing up she had followed him inside to see an amazing transformation having been taken place in her absence the kitchen was spotless the dining table looked immaculate and there seemed to have appeared servants of all sizes and shapes dusting and cleaning the already spick and span house.
Ascending the stairs she reached her room to find the char woman at work who had been thoughful enough to have packed up Milind's clothes before hand picking up the bundle she had handed it to the man waiting. Raghu had proceeded to follow the man when she had stalled him "As you know Kaka is ill hence I will be looking after the house in his absence I would prefer you fill me in with the details now". Raghu had cast an amused glance at her petite form she really did think she was master's wife now didn't she, the idea appealed to him and he had smiled inwardly. "By all means madame" he had curtsied slightly and provided her with a complete timetable on the residents and their activities. By eight Baba would have his breakfast comprising of cereals and fresh orange juice at precisely ten Sukriti would awaken and demand her breakfast of fresh apple juice and low calorie milk, Sukriti would then go on to attend her art classes by eleven. Baba would have his daily walk in the gardens and read the morning paper by twelve he would have retired to the library and spend a good two hours reading after which he would return to his room. Since it was a Monday Sukriti would join her friends for lunch which would leave Baba her and Milind in the afternoon nodding her head slightly Prachi registered the timings and activities of the two other resident souls besides her in the house. She had then got to work checking the freezer she found chicken stocked in a large quantity racking her brains for a recipe she conjured up a menu comprising of chicken karahi with rice and plain nans and for dessert she could stick to kheer a safe bet in her opinion.
But first the breakfasts it was nearly eight and her father in law would most definitely await his first meal of the day. Pouring out cornflakes in a bowl she added milk and honey to it and placing a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice had steadied the tray before walking upstairs with it. Her father in law occupied the room in the west wing she had come to know via Raghu and made her way to the room knocking on the door gently she awaited permission to enter which was soon granted. Mishraji had been pleasantly surprised to see her instead of Kaka and she had explained to him the events that had caused her to stand there. "Come have a seat it is not everyday my children venture in this lonely place" he had smiled clasping her hand lovingly and she had accepted the offer making herself comfortable on a chair. "I see you have come to know much about the house and its residents" Mishraji had smiled "Well not completely" she had replied "somehow I fail to understand my husband" she had confided in him. "He is too guarded and I find it hard to penetrate through this protective shield he has around him at all times. Why won't he trust me Papa?" she had inquired in low tones her depression writ large on her face. "How do I reach out to him, it is difficult very difficult for me to comprehend him... please tell me if this marriage was forced on him. Did I by any chance offend him? Why does he have other women in his bed when I am right beside him willing to do what he bids me to" she was getting restless now and paced the room in supressed desperation. Mishraji could gauge the undercurrent of emotions that bubbled through her like a mountain boiling to the point of explosion he feared she might erupt soon and that certainly would not be a good omen. Taking her hand he had made her sit beside him on the bed "Give him time because believe me if he ever is to open up to any mortal being I assure you it will be you" Prachi had looked at her father in law dubiously. "How can you be so sure?" she still wasn't convinced "You'r the only one he has allowed to remain close for such an extended period" he had smiled "except ofcourse for his ex wife" and Prachi's mouth had opened in a silent protest ex wife what else did he have up his sleeve. She appeared highly miffed with the thought of she not being the only one bethrothed to him as rightly suspected by Mishraji "The point is child he cares for you which he has never done for anyone prior to you." Prachi's eyes had glazed as new aspects of his life unfolded afore her why could he not have told her about the ex wife she had thought miserably whatever bridge she managed to build between them he successfully managed to burn in the very next moment. She felt cheated and extremely low on self esteem "Why has he married me?" she had inquired quietly and Mishraji had racked his brains for an appropriate answer, how was he to tell her now that he himself had no clue on this rather bizzarre union.
He for one had not expected his son to bring back a wife from his business trip atleast not one who was sensible and sensitive enough to try and understand him. "I think he himself knows the answer to this one" he had resigned unable to come up with a good enough lie "But for all its worth it I'm sure he must have decided to settle down in life and have a proper family afterall". The breakfast being over Prachi had retreated to her next abode the kitchen finding solace in chopping and stirring contents she tried her best to stop thinking about the one man who haunted her at will. It would have been smooth sailing had she not been faced with another predicament Sukriti had decided to grace the world with her presence afterall. "Where's Kaka?" she had inquired of Prachi "He's sick" came a prompt reply "So you'r the new cook then?" she had ridiculed her openly. "No I'm your brother's new wife and it's high time you stop acting as if you own the world" Prachi had snapped back. She was tired of being toyed around with and it was time she started self defense with no other choice left on her. Sukriti who had been expecting another deluge was caught off gaurd and was definitely surprised to see the mouse turn into a lioness. "Well let's see how long you last... the previous one managed a good six months" she had challenged Prachi much to her annoyance. "Well I intend to last this one till eternity and my marriage is certainly not your concern. You better run along before the world starts missing on their next Picasso" Prachi had looked confidently at a defiant Sukriti who certainly had not been pleased to see her new sister in law not at all intimidated by her. Clacking on her heels she had turned and left sighing Prachi had leaned against the counter and cried hard she had hated each word she had uttered yet she felt the need to give back what she had been receiving in equal quantity , why her and why him, why were they together if he hardly needed or desired her. Kaka who had been feeling thirsty had ambled to the kitchen and had heard and seen all that had transpired between the two women and for once a glimmer of hope had lit his heart, hope that at long last Milind may have finally found his match.
Part 9
Milind had arrived home by two in the afternoon to find it lifeless he was surprised by his own anticipation of seeing Prachi quietly working away behind the kitchen counter. Had she finished cooking or had she abandoned the idea altogether there was an inevitable bias in his mind regarding the latter option. He had walked over to Kaka and found him in much less discomfort than earlier that morning taking his seat beside him on the bed he had yet again checked his forehead. "How are you feeling now?" he had questioned his voice a gentle whisper. "Much better, your wife has taken good care of me" and they had shared a smile then the thought comforting in an obscure sense. "Have you had lunch?" he had inquired "Yes she fed me lentil soup with bread" Kaka had assured him warmly making sure that he took his pills in the wake of his presence there Milind had tucked him up and left to search for her. Ironic as it was her existence was something that kept registering in the back of his mind as if there was this little bell that would ring inside his head every time he thought of her. Stepping up the stair case he had scoured his room to find her huddled in the middle of the bed her body heaving gently. Pulling back the curtains he had dispelled the dark gloominess that had earlier presided over the room. She had heard him enter yet had decided not to acknowledge his presence she was too hurt to think or feel anything, as it was her sentiments had not left her capable of understanding any other emotion besides pain. He watched her closely she was still in her night gown from the morning which meant she hadn't found the need to change. "Prachi" he had called out yet she had refused to adhere to his call making him impatient. Bending down he had held her by her shoulders making her sit upright in an instant, Prachi had found it impossible to not yield to his ironic grip and had not wrested her being out of it. She though had hung her head low which had made him frown in puzzlement "What now!" he had emitted a low growl holding her chin between his thumb and forefinger he had pushed her face up to be in level with his. Their eyes had collided then her moist ones with his relatively dark ones. He could see the damage had been done they were red probably from incessant crying and that had disturbed him. He had arched his eyebrows in question and her lower lip had trembled she had probably wished to say something yet words had failed her and she had turned away in an attempt to escape him. Pulling her face to his he had frowned yet again "What happened?" he demanded to know and that was when Prachi's dam had broken she had cried then unhappy at her existence her grief quite a mystery for him.
He had lowered himself on the bed next to her and she had slumped against him he had not shunned her rather had let her vent it knowing full well that even if he tried to stop her it would be a futile attempt. When he felt she had had enough he had slid his arm around her waist and propped her up so that she was in his line of vision "Why do you hate me ?" she had whispered and he had suppressed the urge to laugh aloud at the rather absurd accusation. "What makes you say that?" he had counter questioned his eyes dancing "You don't want me, you don't talk to me, your sister thinks our marriage won't even last a year" tears had spilled on her cheeks again and this time he had smiled. "I see you have been in conversation with Sukriti, she isn't the most friendliest person on earth.... Is that why you had decided to inundate my bedroom?" he had asked mischief evident in his tone. "Why didn't you tell me you had been married earlier?" she had popped the unexpected question and she could see his visage shadowed by a sudden rush of memories. "If a man tries to forget the darkest moments of his life.... I do not consider him to be at fault...... neither should you" his volume was toned down yet it was quite commanding Prachi had felt his muscles stiffen against her back. "If you'r done with the melodrama I do expect to be served some food" he had reminded releasing her "And don't try to dress up like a maid now that you have decided to be one" he had castigated her sharply. "But I don't have any clothes" she had reminded him and his hands had momentarily stopped tugging at the tie "Then get some" he had supplied a solution yanking his tie which tightened around his throat. "God damn it" he had sworn making Prachi aware of his pitiful situation. "Stop pulling at it or you'll end up strangled" she had instructed him wrenching his hands away "Good end I believe" he had muttered dryly. Prachi had nimbly worked at the knot loosening it so that he could breathe normally and had finally slid it off him. Snatching it from her he had crumpled it in his hands and tossed it in the waste bin it was clear he wasn't going to wear another one for quite some time now. Unbuttoning his shirt he had thrown it away doing off with his pants too and Prachi had turned her blazing face away he obviously did not realize the effect his well sculpted body had on her fragile heart which would start thumping madly every time he decided to strip himself infront of her.
Walking to the bathroom he had closed it shut losing his undergarments as well drenching himself in the shower that fell freely from the faucet above. Prachi having been assured of her importance in his life to a mild extent had racked her brains for a feasible explanation for her behaviour, just minutes earlier she had been tired of life, so sure that she was unwanted. Yet just a mere moment with him and she felt light hearted and that too when he certainly had not confessed to his need for her she felt like kicking herself how could she be so gullible. In a state of absent mindedness she had laid the plates for two when consequently she had been reminded of her father in law he must be awaiting his lunch in his room. Spooning the contents into separate bowls and plates she had made her way to his bedroom to find him engrossed in a soccer match. "Papa why don't you join us downstairs?" she had asked him to which he had smiled sadly "I prefer to eat in solitude" he had assured her of his comfort thus making her leave with a heavy heart. She had by now come to like both the men and found her self at a total loss to abridge the communication gap between them. Trailing down the staircase she found Milind tapping his plate impatiently and she had busied herself to serving him. Taking her seat beside him she saw him place the first spoonful in his mouth when his cell phone rang out he had clamped it to his ear a slight frown visible on his forehead. Listening to the person on the other end he toyed with the food on his plate "I think by now you should be able to handle such situations Sharma" he had retorted obviously not pleased with the untimely intrusion or the cause for it. "If I said I want the party at Carlton... then I want it at Carlton" he had snickered haughtily before slamming the phone on the table making Prachi jump out of her skin.
He could assess her gaze on him throughout the conversation and had caught her in the act by lifting his to her without further ado. Prachi had been befuddled at the sudden entrapment and had felt her cheeks colour in a state of guilt her innocuous scrutiny of him had him bemused and he had decided to play with her. "Is there a party?" Prachi had finally found a means to swallow her rising guilt "Yes" he had answered truthfully. "Are we going?" he was quick to notice the change in address from singular to plural. "I.... am going... yes" he had stressed on the singular pronoun to check her."Why am I not going?" she had inquired disheartedly "Sick people are supposed to rest" he had drawled "I am not sick" she had scowled indignantly "Really!" he had mocked her. She though was not at all moved by his sarcasm her mind too preoccupied with Kamya and the likes of her flitting around him all evening and that to her was unacceptable. "I want to go" she had asseverated till now he had successfully maintained the gap and the indifference to her presence around him but she was hell bent on making him believe otherwise."Why?" had come the prompt interruption "Because I want to" another lame excuse which she was sure he was not going to buy but contrary to her belief he had assented. "Fine get ready by seven" he had ordered her chalking the line that should and could not be crossed, punctuality she realized was the driving force within him. "What do I wear?" she had asked suddenly aware of the lack of a befitting wardrobe for the occasion "I'll get you something" he had pulled her out of her consternation almost immediately. Helping him wear his coat she had watched him pick up his mobile "There's something else I need" she had added hurriedly he had simply turned in her direction making her aware of his undisputed attention on her. "There are so many coconuts in our garden can I have one?" she had wanted to know she was innocent way beyond his belief or comprehension. "Tell Raghu to get you one" he had assented to her childish whim and she had beamed at him, happiness was so easy for some clear hearted souls he had mused before heading outside back to the bad unforgiving world.
The rest of the afternoon was a joyous occasion for Prachi she had found her father in law still absorbed in the match when she had dragged him out of his room "Oh Papa leave that it's just a bunch of people going nuts over a ball. Come lets eat fresh coconuts" her eyes had gleamed in mirth and Mishraji had instantly prayed for them to remain ever smiling. Laughing at her energetic insistence of him joining her he had followed her down the stairs in the majestic greens that lined the front yard true he took a daily walk amidst them yet he reflected that they had never felt so inviting. He had seated himself on a bench enjoying the lilting breeze that blew silkily through the vegetation while Prachi had taken upon herself to frisk around the trees in impatience. "Raghu are you getting up that tree or not" Prachi had chided a reluctant Raghu "My God madam you are so unrelenting" he had complained which had widened her smile. "Why coconuts?" he had asked unhappily "Because I possibly cannot eat the flowers" she had replied sweetly causing Raghu to grumble. Bracing himself for an adventure he had proceeded to climb the tree trunk the scythe belted at his waist his ascent was quick he had afterall spent a lifetime climbing trees pretty soon a small heap of the gathered fruit lay at Prachi's feet. She had thanked Raghu instructing him to skin the fruit and give one to Baba and herself, the rest she equally divided amongst Raghu, Milind and Sukriti. Once the hard outer cover had been done away with Prachi had proceeded to cut holes in the brown skull of the fruit inserting straws in the hollow mounds both she and Mishraji had drunk the sweet nectar within it. Having finished with the drink she had then split the skull in two disappearing inside the house she had returned quickly with a supply of dessicated brown sugar which she had sprinkled generously on the white flesh of the partially ripe coconuts making Mishraji enjoy the unusual dessert to the max. "I never knew such a heavenly refreshment as this existed" he had informed her while helping himself to another mouthful Raghu too had enjoyed the delicacy and had admitted to his exercise being rather fruitful.
That evening before returning home Milind had stopped at a renowned boutique to buy the required accessories for her having shopped for a million women by now he had a fair idea of her exact sizes and had been generous in spending. He wanted her to look lavish, breath taking enough to knock the living lights out of Ayesha his ex wife. One of the reason for him assenting to her accompanying him to the party had been the fact that Ayesha would be present there. The French company he had struck a deal with were in business with Ayesha's husband's franchises of departmental stores she was bound to be there milking all the limelight till she drank the old man to the last drop. It was true Ayesha had left him for Armaan Sehgol a man twice her age just because he owned practically all the motels in Vegas and was capable of owning a country himself did not grant Ayesha the right to walk over Milind not that they had connected on any level in the farce of a meager six months they had spent together. She had been a grudge to him the moment he had set eyes on her she was devastatingly beautiful and his step mother had been vicious enough to allow her to eat his soul up. "F****g b*****s" he had muttered walking down the aisles of the expansive boutique where rows of feminine dresses awaited purchase in neat racks his eyes had settled on a black lace piece with just the correct amount of bead work the fact that it was translucent enough added to it's beauty he could almost conjure Prachi in it looking mesmerizing. "Hmm" he had murmured "Perfect" picking it up he had strolled to the reception keeping a sharp look out for shoes he finally found a pair of stilettos that would compliment the saree, lastly he had selected diamond earrings to go with the dress.
Satisfied with his bargains he had paid for the items and had driven home barging in his room he had dropped on the bed. Placing the packages beside him he found Prachi towelling her locks she probably had just returned from a freshening bath he noticed the bandage had been replaced by a small white strip that revealed her prominent forehead she appeared like a daisy fresh and ready to be plucked not that he was interested in plucking her anyways. She was the first woman who had not inspired any feelings of lust in him rather he had learnt to accept her as a presence someone who would not judge him for what he had been since she had no insight on the pasts neither his nor her own. She had come to accept his wayward ways inspite of her disapproval she had managed to stick to him in a hope to redeem him and save her marriage, he was no fool he had read her like an artist reads a painting. Each line every hue right down to every speck on the canvas she had most definitely been his canvas and he was the artist, it was upto him to fill her with colours of his choice and this time he was going for a masterpiece. "Your stuff" he had informed her yanking the wardrobe open he flicked through his numerous apparels all laundered and pressed ready to be worn pulling out a charcoal grey one he had laid it out on the bed while she rummaged through the packages. The saree was in her hands now and he had heard a distinct withdrawal of breath as she ran a casual finger over the lace "It's beautiful" she had smiled up at him and he had carelessly shrugged his shoulders. "I'll know that once you wear it" he had implied the significance of her unparalleled beauty by his single remark "Get ready" he had ordered her picking up his attire he had left to shower and dress in the guest room. He had noticed her discomfort on him baring himself before her and had decided not to test her this time. Prachi had deftly put on the saree which in her opinion was too revealing. She had tied the solitary string binding her jet black blouse at the back afraid that it might snap and she would be a laughing stock pinning the pallu on her sleeveless shoulder she had let it fall gracefully covering most of her body. Milind had returned in a matter of minutes his still damp hair fell in wild curls which he had smoothed with a careless run of fingers through them, spraying Cool Water on himself he had managed to snatch her breath away standing inches away from her.
Prachi had finished highlighting her eyes with the mascara lining them with kohl she had had applied a clear shade of lip gloss blending it evenly pressing her lips together and had turned to face Milind. "I'm ready" she had announced and Milind had groaned inwardly she was far from ready in his view. "Turn" he had told her inspecting her minutely unpinning her pallu he had held it in his hands scrunching it at the point where it met her shoulder gathering the fall till it was bunched in a neat overlap he had pinned it again so that the saree now went around the front of her svelte figure like a band exposing her shapely curves. She had tried to protest but he had silenced it instantly "I feel like I've not worn anything" she had complained "That is what the latest fashion is... minimum clothing" he had explained. Prachi had inspected his handiwork unimpressed "Loosen it please" she had requested "No" he had refused outrightly checking the make up he asked her to add a bit of rogue on her plain cheeks highlighting her cheek bones and she had complied. He had then asked her to tie her hair in a coiffure making her brush her tresses he explained to her how to roll them pleased with the end result as she pinned them in place lastly he had handed her the diamond studs which she had threaded in her ears. By the time he was finished with her she failed to recognize herself placing her feet confidently in the stilettos she had attempted to step forward only to lurch and land promptly in his open arms. "Right.... practise walking" he had instructed her placidly positioning himself on the bed he monitored her walk "Chin up..... keep your foot straight.... look forward.... and that's it" he had grilled her like a finishing school teacher. "It's just a party" she had exclaimed tired of the lessons "And you represent me" he had shot back gruffly his reputation lay at stake he wanted her first appearance to leave an indelible mark on all present at the party. She was his trophy and he intended to show her off to the world. "Do you think I am ready?" she had wished to know her stance in his view "Quite" he had assured her "Is it so important, what the world thinks of me?" she had steadied herself her gaze focused on his handsome face as he stood beside her. "I want them to know you'r the best" he had tried to evade her searching gaze "Why isn't being the best for you enough?" and he had pressed his lips in silent observation. Her hair curled at the back of her head with little ringlets blowing loose, her kohled eyes were deep and dark, her lips just the right shade of pink which perfectly blended with the fair skin.... there was just one word..... phenomenal. She probably had understood the meaningful contemplation and let him drink in her rich elegance trying hard not to let the blush expand beyond her face she did not recall being studied so keenly ever but somehow she had started to like his immersion regarding her. She admitted to herself that it was his undiverted attention that she sought and it was the lack of it that drove her to self criticism. Tracing her contours he had left a satisfied gleam light his face "Come" he had notified her and she had followed him silently the night had just begun
Milind had arrived home by two in the afternoon to find it lifeless he was surprised by his own anticipation of seeing Prachi quietly working away behind the kitchen counter. Had she finished cooking or had she abandoned the idea altogether there was an inevitable bias in his mind regarding the latter option. He had walked over to Kaka and found him in much less discomfort than earlier that morning taking his seat beside him on the bed he had yet again checked his forehead. "How are you feeling now?" he had questioned his voice a gentle whisper. "Much better, your wife has taken good care of me" and they had shared a smile then the thought comforting in an obscure sense. "Have you had lunch?" he had inquired "Yes she fed me lentil soup with bread" Kaka had assured him warmly making sure that he took his pills in the wake of his presence there Milind had tucked him up and left to search for her. Ironic as it was her existence was something that kept registering in the back of his mind as if there was this little bell that would ring inside his head every time he thought of her. Stepping up the stair case he had scoured his room to find her huddled in the middle of the bed her body heaving gently. Pulling back the curtains he had dispelled the dark gloominess that had earlier presided over the room. She had heard him enter yet had decided not to acknowledge his presence she was too hurt to think or feel anything, as it was her sentiments had not left her capable of understanding any other emotion besides pain. He watched her closely she was still in her night gown from the morning which meant she hadn't found the need to change. "Prachi" he had called out yet she had refused to adhere to his call making him impatient. Bending down he had held her by her shoulders making her sit upright in an instant, Prachi had found it impossible to not yield to his ironic grip and had not wrested her being out of it. She though had hung her head low which had made him frown in puzzlement "What now!" he had emitted a low growl holding her chin between his thumb and forefinger he had pushed her face up to be in level with his. Their eyes had collided then her moist ones with his relatively dark ones. He could see the damage had been done they were red probably from incessant crying and that had disturbed him. He had arched his eyebrows in question and her lower lip had trembled she had probably wished to say something yet words had failed her and she had turned away in an attempt to escape him. Pulling her face to his he had frowned yet again "What happened?" he demanded to know and that was when Prachi's dam had broken she had cried then unhappy at her existence her grief quite a mystery for him.
He had lowered himself on the bed next to her and she had slumped against him he had not shunned her rather had let her vent it knowing full well that even if he tried to stop her it would be a futile attempt. When he felt she had had enough he had slid his arm around her waist and propped her up so that she was in his line of vision "Why do you hate me ?" she had whispered and he had suppressed the urge to laugh aloud at the rather absurd accusation. "What makes you say that?" he had counter questioned his eyes dancing "You don't want me, you don't talk to me, your sister thinks our marriage won't even last a year" tears had spilled on her cheeks again and this time he had smiled. "I see you have been in conversation with Sukriti, she isn't the most friendliest person on earth.... Is that why you had decided to inundate my bedroom?" he had asked mischief evident in his tone. "Why didn't you tell me you had been married earlier?" she had popped the unexpected question and she could see his visage shadowed by a sudden rush of memories. "If a man tries to forget the darkest moments of his life.... I do not consider him to be at fault...... neither should you" his volume was toned down yet it was quite commanding Prachi had felt his muscles stiffen against her back. "If you'r done with the melodrama I do expect to be served some food" he had reminded releasing her "And don't try to dress up like a maid now that you have decided to be one" he had castigated her sharply. "But I don't have any clothes" she had reminded him and his hands had momentarily stopped tugging at the tie "Then get some" he had supplied a solution yanking his tie which tightened around his throat. "God damn it" he had sworn making Prachi aware of his pitiful situation. "Stop pulling at it or you'll end up strangled" she had instructed him wrenching his hands away "Good end I believe" he had muttered dryly. Prachi had nimbly worked at the knot loosening it so that he could breathe normally and had finally slid it off him. Snatching it from her he had crumpled it in his hands and tossed it in the waste bin it was clear he wasn't going to wear another one for quite some time now. Unbuttoning his shirt he had thrown it away doing off with his pants too and Prachi had turned her blazing face away he obviously did not realize the effect his well sculpted body had on her fragile heart which would start thumping madly every time he decided to strip himself infront of her.
Walking to the bathroom he had closed it shut losing his undergarments as well drenching himself in the shower that fell freely from the faucet above. Prachi having been assured of her importance in his life to a mild extent had racked her brains for a feasible explanation for her behaviour, just minutes earlier she had been tired of life, so sure that she was unwanted. Yet just a mere moment with him and she felt light hearted and that too when he certainly had not confessed to his need for her she felt like kicking herself how could she be so gullible. In a state of absent mindedness she had laid the plates for two when consequently she had been reminded of her father in law he must be awaiting his lunch in his room. Spooning the contents into separate bowls and plates she had made her way to his bedroom to find him engrossed in a soccer match. "Papa why don't you join us downstairs?" she had asked him to which he had smiled sadly "I prefer to eat in solitude" he had assured her of his comfort thus making her leave with a heavy heart. She had by now come to like both the men and found her self at a total loss to abridge the communication gap between them. Trailing down the staircase she found Milind tapping his plate impatiently and she had busied herself to serving him. Taking her seat beside him she saw him place the first spoonful in his mouth when his cell phone rang out he had clamped it to his ear a slight frown visible on his forehead. Listening to the person on the other end he toyed with the food on his plate "I think by now you should be able to handle such situations Sharma" he had retorted obviously not pleased with the untimely intrusion or the cause for it. "If I said I want the party at Carlton... then I want it at Carlton" he had snickered haughtily before slamming the phone on the table making Prachi jump out of her skin.
He could assess her gaze on him throughout the conversation and had caught her in the act by lifting his to her without further ado. Prachi had been befuddled at the sudden entrapment and had felt her cheeks colour in a state of guilt her innocuous scrutiny of him had him bemused and he had decided to play with her. "Is there a party?" Prachi had finally found a means to swallow her rising guilt "Yes" he had answered truthfully. "Are we going?" he was quick to notice the change in address from singular to plural. "I.... am going... yes" he had stressed on the singular pronoun to check her."Why am I not going?" she had inquired disheartedly "Sick people are supposed to rest" he had drawled "I am not sick" she had scowled indignantly "Really!" he had mocked her. She though was not at all moved by his sarcasm her mind too preoccupied with Kamya and the likes of her flitting around him all evening and that to her was unacceptable. "I want to go" she had asseverated till now he had successfully maintained the gap and the indifference to her presence around him but she was hell bent on making him believe otherwise."Why?" had come the prompt interruption "Because I want to" another lame excuse which she was sure he was not going to buy but contrary to her belief he had assented. "Fine get ready by seven" he had ordered her chalking the line that should and could not be crossed, punctuality she realized was the driving force within him. "What do I wear?" she had asked suddenly aware of the lack of a befitting wardrobe for the occasion "I'll get you something" he had pulled her out of her consternation almost immediately. Helping him wear his coat she had watched him pick up his mobile "There's something else I need" she had added hurriedly he had simply turned in her direction making her aware of his undisputed attention on her. "There are so many coconuts in our garden can I have one?" she had wanted to know she was innocent way beyond his belief or comprehension. "Tell Raghu to get you one" he had assented to her childish whim and she had beamed at him, happiness was so easy for some clear hearted souls he had mused before heading outside back to the bad unforgiving world.
The rest of the afternoon was a joyous occasion for Prachi she had found her father in law still absorbed in the match when she had dragged him out of his room "Oh Papa leave that it's just a bunch of people going nuts over a ball. Come lets eat fresh coconuts" her eyes had gleamed in mirth and Mishraji had instantly prayed for them to remain ever smiling. Laughing at her energetic insistence of him joining her he had followed her down the stairs in the majestic greens that lined the front yard true he took a daily walk amidst them yet he reflected that they had never felt so inviting. He had seated himself on a bench enjoying the lilting breeze that blew silkily through the vegetation while Prachi had taken upon herself to frisk around the trees in impatience. "Raghu are you getting up that tree or not" Prachi had chided a reluctant Raghu "My God madam you are so unrelenting" he had complained which had widened her smile. "Why coconuts?" he had asked unhappily "Because I possibly cannot eat the flowers" she had replied sweetly causing Raghu to grumble. Bracing himself for an adventure he had proceeded to climb the tree trunk the scythe belted at his waist his ascent was quick he had afterall spent a lifetime climbing trees pretty soon a small heap of the gathered fruit lay at Prachi's feet. She had thanked Raghu instructing him to skin the fruit and give one to Baba and herself, the rest she equally divided amongst Raghu, Milind and Sukriti. Once the hard outer cover had been done away with Prachi had proceeded to cut holes in the brown skull of the fruit inserting straws in the hollow mounds both she and Mishraji had drunk the sweet nectar within it. Having finished with the drink she had then split the skull in two disappearing inside the house she had returned quickly with a supply of dessicated brown sugar which she had sprinkled generously on the white flesh of the partially ripe coconuts making Mishraji enjoy the unusual dessert to the max. "I never knew such a heavenly refreshment as this existed" he had informed her while helping himself to another mouthful Raghu too had enjoyed the delicacy and had admitted to his exercise being rather fruitful.
That evening before returning home Milind had stopped at a renowned boutique to buy the required accessories for her having shopped for a million women by now he had a fair idea of her exact sizes and had been generous in spending. He wanted her to look lavish, breath taking enough to knock the living lights out of Ayesha his ex wife. One of the reason for him assenting to her accompanying him to the party had been the fact that Ayesha would be present there. The French company he had struck a deal with were in business with Ayesha's husband's franchises of departmental stores she was bound to be there milking all the limelight till she drank the old man to the last drop. It was true Ayesha had left him for Armaan Sehgol a man twice her age just because he owned practically all the motels in Vegas and was capable of owning a country himself did not grant Ayesha the right to walk over Milind not that they had connected on any level in the farce of a meager six months they had spent together. She had been a grudge to him the moment he had set eyes on her she was devastatingly beautiful and his step mother had been vicious enough to allow her to eat his soul up. "F****g b*****s" he had muttered walking down the aisles of the expansive boutique where rows of feminine dresses awaited purchase in neat racks his eyes had settled on a black lace piece with just the correct amount of bead work the fact that it was translucent enough added to it's beauty he could almost conjure Prachi in it looking mesmerizing. "Hmm" he had murmured "Perfect" picking it up he had strolled to the reception keeping a sharp look out for shoes he finally found a pair of stilettos that would compliment the saree, lastly he had selected diamond earrings to go with the dress.
Satisfied with his bargains he had paid for the items and had driven home barging in his room he had dropped on the bed. Placing the packages beside him he found Prachi towelling her locks she probably had just returned from a freshening bath he noticed the bandage had been replaced by a small white strip that revealed her prominent forehead she appeared like a daisy fresh and ready to be plucked not that he was interested in plucking her anyways. She was the first woman who had not inspired any feelings of lust in him rather he had learnt to accept her as a presence someone who would not judge him for what he had been since she had no insight on the pasts neither his nor her own. She had come to accept his wayward ways inspite of her disapproval she had managed to stick to him in a hope to redeem him and save her marriage, he was no fool he had read her like an artist reads a painting. Each line every hue right down to every speck on the canvas she had most definitely been his canvas and he was the artist, it was upto him to fill her with colours of his choice and this time he was going for a masterpiece. "Your stuff" he had informed her yanking the wardrobe open he flicked through his numerous apparels all laundered and pressed ready to be worn pulling out a charcoal grey one he had laid it out on the bed while she rummaged through the packages. The saree was in her hands now and he had heard a distinct withdrawal of breath as she ran a casual finger over the lace "It's beautiful" she had smiled up at him and he had carelessly shrugged his shoulders. "I'll know that once you wear it" he had implied the significance of her unparalleled beauty by his single remark "Get ready" he had ordered her picking up his attire he had left to shower and dress in the guest room. He had noticed her discomfort on him baring himself before her and had decided not to test her this time. Prachi had deftly put on the saree which in her opinion was too revealing. She had tied the solitary string binding her jet black blouse at the back afraid that it might snap and she would be a laughing stock pinning the pallu on her sleeveless shoulder she had let it fall gracefully covering most of her body. Milind had returned in a matter of minutes his still damp hair fell in wild curls which he had smoothed with a careless run of fingers through them, spraying Cool Water on himself he had managed to snatch her breath away standing inches away from her.
Prachi had finished highlighting her eyes with the mascara lining them with kohl she had had applied a clear shade of lip gloss blending it evenly pressing her lips together and had turned to face Milind. "I'm ready" she had announced and Milind had groaned inwardly she was far from ready in his view. "Turn" he had told her inspecting her minutely unpinning her pallu he had held it in his hands scrunching it at the point where it met her shoulder gathering the fall till it was bunched in a neat overlap he had pinned it again so that the saree now went around the front of her svelte figure like a band exposing her shapely curves. She had tried to protest but he had silenced it instantly "I feel like I've not worn anything" she had complained "That is what the latest fashion is... minimum clothing" he had explained. Prachi had inspected his handiwork unimpressed "Loosen it please" she had requested "No" he had refused outrightly checking the make up he asked her to add a bit of rogue on her plain cheeks highlighting her cheek bones and she had complied. He had then asked her to tie her hair in a coiffure making her brush her tresses he explained to her how to roll them pleased with the end result as she pinned them in place lastly he had handed her the diamond studs which she had threaded in her ears. By the time he was finished with her she failed to recognize herself placing her feet confidently in the stilettos she had attempted to step forward only to lurch and land promptly in his open arms. "Right.... practise walking" he had instructed her placidly positioning himself on the bed he monitored her walk "Chin up..... keep your foot straight.... look forward.... and that's it" he had grilled her like a finishing school teacher. "It's just a party" she had exclaimed tired of the lessons "And you represent me" he had shot back gruffly his reputation lay at stake he wanted her first appearance to leave an indelible mark on all present at the party. She was his trophy and he intended to show her off to the world. "Do you think I am ready?" she had wished to know her stance in his view "Quite" he had assured her "Is it so important, what the world thinks of me?" she had steadied herself her gaze focused on his handsome face as he stood beside her. "I want them to know you'r the best" he had tried to evade her searching gaze "Why isn't being the best for you enough?" and he had pressed his lips in silent observation. Her hair curled at the back of her head with little ringlets blowing loose, her kohled eyes were deep and dark, her lips just the right shade of pink which perfectly blended with the fair skin.... there was just one word..... phenomenal. She probably had understood the meaningful contemplation and let him drink in her rich elegance trying hard not to let the blush expand beyond her face she did not recall being studied so keenly ever but somehow she had started to like his immersion regarding her. She admitted to herself that it was his undiverted attention that she sought and it was the lack of it that drove her to self criticism. Tracing her contours he had left a satisfied gleam light his face "Come" he had notified her and she had followed him silently the night had just begun
Part 10
Raghu had steered the car skilfully through the thick evening traffic while Prachi and Milind sat in the back seat of the Audi. In the rear view mirror Raghu could glimpse Prachi huddled near Milind and he had been forced to dip his head low as a smile played on his lips. Raghu had noticed a marked improvement in Milind his temperament had mellowed and he had started smiling which was quite an unusual trait for him, the change of course was yet to be discovered by Milind himself. "Did Kaka have his dinner?" Milind had asked her and she had nodded in agreement "Yes I fed him before going for my bath" she had elucidated "How is the fever?" he had wanted to know. "It has subsided now" Prachi had informed him and he had grunted in acknowledgment. Prachi had smiled at him then her eyes settling on his masculine form she had a knot in her stomach a million butterflies fluttering in her heart though she had tried to mask the anxiety Milind could see right through it. She wasn't an actress and simply wasn't a hypocrite either whatever she felt was mirrored on her face her hands rested on Milind's arm enveloping it showcasing her need to feel protected.
As they travelled down the entire length of his arm she had found an item amiss and had held his open cuff in her delicate fingers inspecting it. "Your cuff link slipped off" she had told him causing him to trace her fingers on his hand the conscious awareness of her softness against his rugged skin had him contemplating. Switching the bulb overhead both of them had bent down to retrieve the misplaced accessory in the same instant . Prachi had felt the carpet underfoot her hands groping around for the missing cuff link when they had inadvertently grappled with Milind's the dark had seemed a perfect excuse for proximity the cuff link being momentarily forgotten. She had let him squeeze her hand gently tempting her but he knew now was not the time Milind had with as much deliberation as he could muster pushed her hand away. For a moment he could almost see how the act had ripped her heart to pieces she had turned towards the open window feigning normalcy while his own hands had continued with the search. Finally triumphant in it he had retrieved the cufflink and had proceeded to slip it in his cuff once again. For the rest of the drive Prachi had considered it best to keep her distance from him concentrating on the objects flashing past her as the car was now moving at a swift pace. After about an impatient wait of another twenty minutes the majestic visage of Carlton emerged from the shadows and both of them had straightened up. Stepping out on the gravel Milind had walked over to her side opening her door he held out his hand to her which she had accepted hesitantly stepping out of the metallic machine she had stood nervously beside him.
"Just smile and speak only when spoken to" he had apprised her she had immediately flashed him an usually flashy smile agitated at his puppeteer act "From your heart" he had made her cringe further. "I don't find anything in my heart to smile" the cue obviously had been picked up by him, the prompt denial was definitely in lieu of his discouragement to physical proximity in the car earlier. Out of the corner of his eye he could see a mob of reporters awaiting the guests at the doorway the concierge had started making his way towards them it was only a matter of minutes before they would be noticed and made the headlines for the next day's page three event. He was an ace at the task at hand and he understood now was the moment for which he had been building up her craving for his attention pulling her gently towards him he had stared at her with such desire and raw passion that she had found herself melting in the possessive hold of his arms. "Prachi" he had whispered huskily and as her eyes had leveled with his he had cupped her face with the utmost of care by now the concierge was nearly upon them and following him was the crowd of news hungry journalists. Bending down he had softly captured her full supple lips in his own she had been caught off guard totally unaware of the havoc he was about to wreak on her senses rendering her involuntarily exposed to her desperate need for him. The assault though gentle was enough to sweep Prachi off her feet he could feel her give in to the throbbing passion that he had effortlessly transferred to her through his touch.
As anticipated by him the photographers had soon spied the private activity and had quite a field day clicking the very much in love couple lip locking in the dark cover of the deserted carpark. Prachi's eyes had closed the minute his mouth had found hers she had been transported to another realm altogether, one where nothing existed beside him for her. His lips had been warm and inviting and she had fallen flat for her seemingly detached husband who had ample capacity to brew up a wave of yearning within her. She clung on to him heaving hard her heart running wild she felt his hands travel on her exposed midriff making her lean on to him for support. The constant clicking and shuffle of feet near her had caused her to open her eyes to a sea of faces she had gasped while Milind had withdrawn content with his act he knew what would follow would be but a natural chain of sentiments invoked most pleasantly by him. Prachi had as expected by him turned a deep shade of crimson on the sudden awareness of being caught red handed she had bit her lower lip in discomfiture her gaze lowered to her feet. "Nervous!" he had whispered smiling serenely at the furious clicking that was driving her crazy she had merely nodded her head in assent hoping to disappear in thin air at the very moment. Pushing her chin up with his index finger he had made her watch his calm face dispelling any traces of guilt or shame from hers "You look down for no one, just remember you're with me" and she had smiled in elation regaining her self confidence within minutes. Placing his arm around her waist he let it settle on the small of her back pulling her to him he practically glued her to his side smiling perfunctorily they had let the concierge pave the way for their entrance amidst a volley of questions and perky remarks. Prachi's first encounter with the press had been hardcore success and Milind had been quite pleased with his victory.
The party had taken off quite well around the stately ballroom were gathered small crowds of renowned entrepreneurs both famous and unknown some struggling others established. As Milind had walked in he was almost immediately thronged with guests awaiting to congratulate him on bagging the deal with the French company. He had played the perfect host smiling thanking nodding it was his moment of glory, to Prachi it had all seemed like a fairytale. The constant rounds of compliments appraisals and felicitations had her stunned she had uptil now been quite in the dark about her husband's towering personality in the field of business his undaunted success and casual acceptance of it as normal had her head reeling. Milind had not for a single moment allowed her to linger away from him and she herself had found it best to stay within close quarters. Partly due to the fact that she had yet to make acquaintances and partly because she could not afford to see any other woman claim him. It was then that Pierre Ferrego had asked Milind to meet some of his compatriots whilst Milind was introduced to the jovial group she had spied a drink on a laden buffet table far left of the expansive room. She had not realized how thirsty she had initially been abandoning all thoughts of self once Milind got a hold of her. Making her way through the bustling venue she had reached the table and just as she had out stretched her arm to retrieve the sparkling tumbler it had been nipped away from right under her nose by a rather elegant arm.
Prachi had looked up to find a sleek pair of green eyes trained on her she had smiled and tried to move away in search of another drink when she had felt a velvet voice penetrate through the din. "Enjoying the party?" the woman had quipped sipping leisurely at the fruit punch. "Yes I am" Prachi had replied politely "Though I should've asked enjoying Milind" her pale pink lips smiling mysteriously as she batted her eyelashes in mirth enjoying Prachi's sullen observance of her. "I'm pretty sure he conveniently forgot to mention me.... I'm Ayesha by the way Ayesha Sehgol.... former Mrs Mishra.... The titles change so quickly I find it hard to keep track of the ones after me". Prachi had felt as if she had been slapped hard such humiliation was the first she had encountered that evening that too at the hands of her husband's ex wife. "Well there is no need to keep track since I very much hold the title and you I believe have come to know me now" Prachi had shot back unable to keep her boiling rage at bay. She had found the introduction rather insulting and had deemed it best to clear the air between them he was her husband and she was not going to let any ex wife get away with the last laugh. Ayesha had burst into a bubbly laughter flicking her golden brown hair over her shoulder she had pointed to where Milind stood and much to Prachi's displeasure deep in conversation with Kamya. "You honestly think you can retain the title for a lifetime?" Ayesha had asked silkily poisoning Prachi's mind against Milind. But much to her disappointment Prachi had refused to take the bait most probably because she had prior knowledge of Kamya's existence in Milind's life and of the fact that he had admitted to having many such friends like her.
"Yes Mrs Sehgol I do intend to retain the coveted title butterflies may flit on each flower but they never reside there for long.... now if you'll excuse me I do see my husband beckoning me" with that steely reply Prachi had threaded back her way to Milind's side. Her need for a drink forgotten she planted herself near him like a waxed statue with a plastic smile on her face.The rest of the evening was a blur for Prachi she though had seen Ayesha smile at her from across the room and had felt queasy each time their eyes had collided since hers seemed to be focused on Prachi at all times. Milind had been called to pop the first bottle of Champagne for the evening Prachi had accompanied him to the pyramid of wine glasses erected in the center of the ballroom. Amidst a thunderous applause Milind had flipped open the cork stopper and a frothy gush of the effervescent liquid had been released, smiling Milind had poured it in the topmost glass till it overflowed and filled the symmetrical arrangement underneath. "Cheers" he had tipped his glass to the company joining him and they had swigged at the amber liquid in unison. Prachi had watched all of it apatheticaly she had found the party rather unamusing her eyes scouring the room blandly "Wanna join in" Milind had murmured handing her a glass "I don't drink" she had immediately denied the offer. "Prachi drink it!" this time he had ordered her he could see dozens of eyes fixed on them each move they made was monitored and would be discussed and dissected after the party. He did not want her to come across as a middle class dunce on the contrary he had hoped to present her as a chic and elegant lady which he had succeeded in doing till yet.
Prachi had tried to deny yet again when he had thrust the wine glass in her hand and she had she had accepted it from him miserably hoping for a distraction. At the precise moment as a godsend Ayesha had been upon them swaying lightly to the mellifluous music resounding in the hall "Hello darling" she had leaned in to kiss Milind on the cheek while fire shot through Prachi's profile. "I see your new toy is quite fiesty" she had complimented him on his choice. "Hello Ayesha I see Mr Sehgol is missing.......... probably busy with his Russian counterpart" Milind had replied softly. Prachi could almost feel the heat emitting from Milind it felt as if he was scorching, Ayesha on the other hand had smiled lazily. "Mr Sehgol is in safe hands" she had assured him laughing her tinkling laughter Prachi had studied her carefully her milky skin was flawless the lilac saree she wore had hand embroidery done on it the most intricate work in just the right amount. She had latched herself to Milind's arm "Hunny lets dance" she had coaxed him "I think I already have a partner Ayesha" he had held his arm out to Prachi who had gratefully slipped her hand in his. Putting her glass on a passing waiter's tray and leaving a jilted Ayesha nurse her wounds they had left for the dance floor with her watching them venemously prior to Prachi's arrival Ayesha had always successfully managed to instigate Milind to rash actions but tonight the tables had been turned. Tonight Milind had been profoundly at peace with Prachi by his side and that reflected in his calculated conversation with Ayesha.
On reaching the dance floor Milind had held Prachi close to him "Milind" she had whispered afraid that her voice may travel to unknown ears "Hmm" he had mused looking at her "I can't dance" she had whispered again gravely repentant at her inability to do so. "It's ok" he had murmured close to her ear making her tremor with delight as his lips brushed against her ear shell "Just follow my lead and try not to punish my feet" he had whispered kissing her ear tentatively a slow smile had settled on Prachi's lips as she had shyly met his searing gaze. She had tried to follow his steps her arms around his neck staying clear of his feet and he had chuckled as he noticed the concentration with which she performed the exercise. Ayesha who had been thoroughly miffed by Milind's indifferent attitude to her had not given up on them grabbing a young man from the crowd beside her she had joined them at the dance floor. Prachi had let out a soft moan on seeing Ayesha beside them making Milind turn her in his arms watching her face intently "Don't let her get to you" he had warned her. "How can I when all she does is glower at me" Prachi had complained in soft tones causing Milind to fill her up in his arms as they moved to the rhythmic beats. Swaying her hips in perfect motion Ayesha had appeared near them "I see you haven't lost your spark Milind.... still can make a woman lose herself" Ayesha had hit on him sarcastically. Milind's eyes though remained fixated on an apprehensive Prachi who had felt the emptiness seep in them his grip on her waist had tightened making her understand Ayesha had hit on a raw nerve.
On reaching the dance floor Milind had held Prachi close to him "Milind" she had whispered afraid that her voice may travel to unknown ears "Hmm" he had mused looking at her "I can't dance" she had whispered again gravely repentant at her inability to do so. "It's ok" he had murmured close to her ear making her tremor with delight as his lips brushed against her ear shell "Just follow my lead and try not to punish my feet" he had whispered kissing her ear tentatively a slow smile had settled on Prachi's lips as she had shyly met his searing gaze. She had tried to follow his steps her arms around his neck staying clear of his feet and he had chuckled as he noticed the concentration with which she performed the exercise. Ayesha who had been thoroughly miffed by Milind's indifferent attitude to her had not given up on them grabbing a young man from the crowd beside her she had joined them at the dance floor. Prachi had let out a soft moan on seeing Ayesha beside them making Milind turn her in his arms watching her face intently "Don't let her get to you" he had warned her. "How can I when all she does is glower at me" Prachi had complained in soft tones causing Milind to fill her up in his arms as they moved to the rhythmic beats. Swaying her hips in perfect motion Ayesha had appeared near them "I see you haven't lost your spark Milind.... still can make a woman lose herself" Ayesha had hit on him sarcastically. Milind's eyes though remained fixated on an apprehensive Prachi who had felt the emptiness seep in them his grip on her waist had tightened making her understand Ayesha had hit on a raw nerve.
"Well you've got ample experience... started so young.... it's quite natural to have a knack for it by now" and that was the moment Milind's patience had snapped like a dry twig. Taking Prachi by the hand he had led her outside the ballroom in a haste, Sharma had run after the fleeting couple in a rush "Sir the party" he had attempted to remind Milind. "Handle it" Milind had barked before practically sprinting to the Audi, Raghu who had just settled in for a nap had been rudely awakened from his dream when Milind had literally banged on the window. Startled he had jumped up and quickly rolled down the window clicking the locks open. Opening the back door Milind had practically shoved Prachi in the back seat "Raghu take her home" he had ordered grimly "But master you.." he had tried to ask. "Don't argue Raghu I'll come home myself" with that he had walked out of the parking lot leaving Prachi as flustered as Raghu. "Raghu where is he going?" Prachi had asked tears rolling down her cheeks "I have no clue madam" he had answered ruefully. "Raghu let me go on my own you go after him" she had suggested when Raghu had started the engine. "When master is angry I do not mess with him" he had explained rolling the car towards Mishra mansion. Prachi was now sobbing openly she could not fathom why Ayesha's remark had left him so broken what was it that his past held that had sliced through his soul leaving it bleeding to a silent death. Getting out of the car Prachi had begged Raghu to go find him "Please Raghu... please go find him" she had clasped her hands before the servant. "Madam do not embarrass it is my duty to get master safe at home and I will return only when I find him" with that Raghu had left again. Prachi had headed to her room with heavy steps her eyes shedding countless tears she had quietly changed and sponged her face sanning it of the makeup.
She had tried to remain enclosed within the confines of her room but had failed to do so taking to the lawns she had paced vigilantly as the night grew deeper so had the silence the house had become quiet all activities ended what had not stopped was the continual flow of salt water from her eyes. Minutes seemed like hours the wait threatening to choke her she prayed silently shivering as the wind had turned colder the temperature dropping considerably yet she could not find it in her heart to stay within the luxury of her room while her husband scoured the streets. After what had seemed like an eternity she had sighted the twin lights of the Audi flash at the iron gates her heart had jumped to her throat and she had run to the marble steps awaiting him. Raghu had gotten out at the threshold sprinting over to the other side he had helped a drunk and staggering Milind on his feet placing his arm on his shoulder he had propped Milind against him. Prachi had lent Raghu a hand and had ducked under Milind's other arm straightening him they had together hauled him up the stairs and reaching the bedroom had placed his limp body on the large bed. "Milind... Milind" Prachi had tried to awaken him from his unconscious state patting his cheeks gently. "Madam he is drunk you might as well let him sleep it off" Raghu had advised soberly closing the door behind him as he exited the room. The minute Raghu had seen Ayesha enter Carlton he had an intuition of some grave incident taking place and so it had been he had found Milind at his favourite pub drunk to the core. Tonight his master had been hurt again at the hands of that witch how he hated the sight of her and hoped Prachi would heal the wounds his master's heart bore. As the silence had settled in the room echoed with Prachi's sobs "Milind.... Milind.. Milind" she chanted rubbing his hands placing them against her heart. Till the moment he had walked away from her in the parking lot Prachi had been oblivious of the love that had spread roots in her heart for him, the minute he had turned his back on her had been the precise moment of enlightment. She had taken off his shoes and socks, unfastened his belt and pulled it off lastly she had with some difficulty taken off his coat opening the top most buttons of his shirt she had tried to make him comfortable.
The movement had caused him to stir he had opened his red rimmed eyes to meet her dewy ones. "Milind" she had breathed softly overjoyed to see him come around he had pulled her to him enveloping her in a loose embrace. For the first time Prachi had felt herself becoming an important, an integral part of his life "Milind she had whispered encased in his arms and he had opened his drugged eyes to watch her with a sentiment she was unable to decipher. "Stay" he had requested and she had kissed his cheek with love "I'm right here..... right here by you" she had assuaged him settling in his arms. Even though he reaked heavily of alcohol the ardor she had felt for herself in his eyes had made her snuggle upto him she had lain awake for a very long time that night listening to his heart as it rhythymically thumped in his chest. Before her eyes had drooped close she had planted a tender kiss on his bare chest promising to herself to put an end to his misery soon.
Part 11
Milind had awoken to see the room faintly illuminated he noticed the curtains had been drawn to blot the rays of sunshine that had given up hope of entering the periphary of the bedroom altogether. He winced as a bolt of pain flashed through the entire breadth of his head "God" he whispered he was on the verge of banging his head against the chisseled head rest to rid it of the excrutiating thud. He had tried to put a hand to his temple to ease the pangs but found it encumbered slightly turning to the right he had opened his blood shot eyes to peer at Prachi's serene face at close proximity. His mind had taken a double take what was she doing in his bed, by his side, in his arms no doubt. Had he managed to trap her into his vicious web of lust and greed, had she been a victim of his untimely hunger for companionship.... it couldn't be... he couldn't he had slightly moaned. He was a beast that much was known by him but to be so driven by vengeance that too practising it on an innocent soul as her was a crime, he hated himself in that moment but had loved her too right there, right beside him. That was where she belonged his heart had been honest enough to point out she had stirred, her lips moving for an infitine fraction before settling back again, the plump redness had only served to entice him further why did God have to test him so. As if He had listened and chosen to admonish him that very instant the dull thud had increased to a pulsating ache and he had groaned slightly on cue Prachi's eyes had fluttered open. Rising up from his arm she had sit up immediately watching his face contort in anguish "Milind" she had called out unsure of the reason for his anxiety.
Finding his arm free he had pressed his temples with his thumb and forefinger "Are you alright?" she had asked trying to pry away his hand from his forehead considering a wound to be the cause of his pain. "What are you doing here?" he had questioned certainly not one she had expected her face had fallen slightly her eyes glazed did he not remember requesting her to stay back the previous night. Was the new found happiness a short lived one, she had yet to discover "You asked me to stay" she had whispered hopefully, hope that he might recollect last night.... parts of it she had correctly herself almost immediately. Milind had been reminded of the heartbreak he had had to endure at Ayesha's hands the surge of memories had rendered him breathless he recalled getting Prachi to the car and then walking to the pub he knew was at a stone's throw away from Carlton. The last of his memories included of him sipping on his twentieth Martini and that was all he recognized for now. His head had started pounding lika shoesmith tacking a horse he just couldn't make it stop it wasn't his first hangover and he understood it would take time to subside till then he could have a shower. Struggling to haul himself up he had inadvertantly fallen against Prachi knocking her beneath him she had gasped before falling flat on the mattress her eyes wide in bewilderment. Once again he had opened his eyes to her face only this time her hazel eyes were peering at him "Let me help you" she had offered "I can run you a bath if you want to have one" she had tentatively touched his broad shoulders with her hands for leverage.
He had searched her countenance for any clue that would lead him to believe he had forced himself on her yet there was a delicate blush etched over it as she looked at him peace glowing from within. "Prachi did we..." he had dared to question his breath bated "No" she had whispered "We didn't consummate our marriage" she had informed him shyly the blush deepening making him understand she had not been soiled by him. "Fine" he had muttered in an undertone his voice softening ever so slightly and she had smiled before making him lie on his back again. "Five minutes" she had told him before sprinting to the washroom he could hear her run the water in the bath tub smell the tangy frangrance of bath salts and lotions as she mixed them in the running water she had freshened up herself in the meantime. Testing the tepid water once again she had stepped out of the washroom and had gently nudged him "It's ready" she had informed him helping him sit up he had tugged at his shirt buttons maniacally when she had stalled him placing her soft hands on his own "I'll do it" she had remarked slightly irked with his temperament, did the man have no patience. He had let his hands fall back and she had nimbly worked at his clothing stripping him not to the core though taking his hand she had led him to the bathroom "Take your time I'll fix your breakfast meanwhile" she had smiled at him before winding her hair in a careless bun and he had closed the door at her retreating form.He had come to rely heavily on her and that he realized was not a good omen, she was an aquaintance nothing more soon she would leave and then where would he be, back to square one lonely and unhappy. Pulling off his undergarments he had stepped in the scented water settling in as the warmth enveloped him completely flashes of her from the previous night assaulted him.
His heart had started charging him for his malicious designs using a plain woman like her to accomplish his selfish needs, he had cupped the water in his hands letting it flow through the gaps in his fingers absent mindedly. Pondering hard on the next course of action he had picked up the lavender soap beside his head and had started scrubbing himself making up his mind to call his detective to gather insight on her, he simply had to releae her from this prison, the sooner the better.
Prachi had stepped off the staircase to find Kaka brewing strong coffee in the percolator "Kaka" she had exclaimed in unhappiness "Who asked you to resume work... you are sick and you had better return to bed at once" she had scolded him lovingly while he had smiled at her. "I'm perfectly fine my dear and cannot let myself rust away in my room" he had explained whisking eggs in a bowl. "Kaka if Milind finds out I let you work he'll be angry at me...." she had whispered and he could trace out the concern for him in her eyes. "Was he drunk last night?" Kaka had asked pouring the egg mixture in the hot pan. "Yes" Prachi had sighed defeatedly even after all her care he had felt no need to confide in her about her past. The fact that he had had to be reminded that no physical activity had taken place between them had been a major put off, she could not control the ache that her body had started feeling for him of late. She had most definitely surprised herself by admitting even if to her ownself the desperate wish he had churned within her to be owned completely and entirely by him. "Was Ayesha there... at the party?" Kaka had wished to know "Raghu tells me he saw her in the vicinity" Kaka was scraping for details and by the looks of it she realized he knew quite a bit about Milind's relationship with Ayesha. Unpacking the bread slices Prachi had popped them in the toaster should she or shouldn't she... she had contemplated staring blankly in space when she heard Raghu shift his weight on his shoes beside her. "Madam how is master doing?" he had inquired handing her the morning paper as per ritual his master would definitely not like to be deprived of his news feed. Moreover the drama he had conjured the previous evening had been splashed to his heart's content on page three. "He's much better where did you find him Raghu?" she had questioned intrigued by his ability to track his rather lonesome master.
"The same bar he doesn't venture far when he's in a need to drown himself in liquor" he had replied a sad tinge to his tone which made Prachi want to scream. It seemed everyone on earth seemed to have an insight on his tragic past... all but her, his better half, his life partner it was just not done. She loved him and it was time she was updated on his basics Raghu had returned as promptly as he had arrived leaving Prachi alone with Kaka. "Kaka please tell me what is nagging him.... what is so horrific in his past. Tell me if I am to heal him I can't do that without your help" she had pleaded to him her eyes begging for help and Kaka had released a deep shallow breath. "What do I tell you child his is a diiferent story he was born to Mishraji's first wife Vandana the only child they had after five years of marriage sadly his mother did not live to see him grow old she died giving birth to him. For fifteen years master brought him all on his own, I believe the best years they spent together. And then one day master married Ratti she was his personal secretary got him drunk one night and they ended up in bed. Master was a generous soul he hated himself for ruining her, she got pregnant with his child and so he married her. The day she stepped in this house was the last that it saw tranquility" Prachi watched Kaka fiddle with the fork breaking the eggs to bite size pieces in the pan. "She was a lustful woman and had taken a liking to Milind, he was too young to understand her wilful schemes he was just happy to have a mother. One night when master was away she drugged him and took him to her room the poor child never could understand why his mother wanted him to share her bed. She had probably slipped him some pills pushed him to the extremes forced herself on him. He was never the same after that, fretted and burnt in fever, had nightmares and was scared of her. I couldn't bear him that way coaxed him to explain what had changed him to such an extent and he had cried showing me the marks that wicked woman had inflicted on him. He was brutally abused by her when master returned I asked him to get Milind admitted in a boarding I couldn't see the child die a slow death. Though a part of him had died the night he got raped he lived out of this house for the next ten years." By now Prachi's tears were visible as they flowed freely from her eyes he had been through so much at such a tender age part of her wanted to hold him in her arms and never let go yet the other part was eager to know more of his past. "He returned five years back because master wasn't feeling well he had his first heart attack then. By that time Sukriti was in love with Saket she wasn't as bad as her mother but she made her mistakes and ended up pregnant during her school years. Saket's parents agreed to accept her as daughter in law if Milind married Ayesha their lustful daghter. Ratti had immediately agreed to the match and Milind complied because he could not see his family name being dragged in mud. Master was ashamed of Ratti I had informed him of Ratti's insolent and criminal behaviour with Milind after he had returned and refused to converse with anyone in the house." Prachi could see delving into the past wasn't easy for Kaka his hands trembled slightly at the sink as he rinsed the cups.
"Ayesha never loved Milind she always complained of him being poor he had just started his business but the woman was impatient he never loved her and after six months she filed for an annulment, with their marriage over Saket dumped Sukriti at our doorstep and took away the child as soon as it was born. A custody case ensued but they won hands down since they are into dirty politics. Now she has closed herself to the family and blames Milind for her bad luck, Ratti died two years back but she had done the damage" he had laughed sardonically at the end leaving Prachi in deep shock. "Is that why he had the women to punish them for his mother and wife's deeds" she had queried still unable to fathom the pain that coursed through her body at top speed it felt as if her heart had just been sliced open. "Yes he turned into a beast after Ayesha left him for Armaan and Sukriti's baby got taken away he blames himself for all of that though none of it is his fault" Kaka had hung his head in shame. "I couldn't protect him" Kaka had cried and Prachi had felt it necessary to assuage him. "We can help him now Kaka, he loves you I have seen it. With a little love and care he can be brought back" she had smiled through shining eyes. " I know you can help him the reason I've enlightened you on his past... help him child he needs you" Kaka had practically begged her and she had silenced him with her assent "I will." Milind had pampered himself in the lukewarm water nothing mattered to him neither the battering headache nor his past for the moment it was just him and his solitude he hadn't known warm baths could feel so good, no wonder some idiot invented the jaccuzzi. Prachi had gathered the breakfast contents Kaka had prepared for Milind and had walked up the stairs to find the room empty he was still in the washroom, she had pulled back the curtains allowing sunlight to flood the entire room with a fresh blissful glow. Opening the windows she felt the cool mid morning breeze engulf her as she stood beside them enjoying the luscious view of the lawns feasting her eyes upon them when she felt a click behind her. She turned to find him bundled in a bath robe his moist hair under a towel which he shoved rigorously over his head, she had smiled at his harsh treatment of himself.
She had then reached him and making him sit on the bed had overtaken the reins gently wiping his hair dry, he had closed his eyes as the essence of her warmth seeped in his scalp through the pores of her fingertips as she massaged his head ridding him of his headache for good. "Breakfast!" she had quipped bringing the tray to the bed she poured out his coffee for him as he nibbled on the toast. "Kaka made this?" it was a question more than a remark "Yes" she had admitted "Why!" he had exclaimed outraged to hear of his sick benefactor slaving in the kitchen. "He is better now" she had assured him "You are going to cook lunch tell him that" he had snapped irritated now. "I will" she had complied readily and he had noticed her tear stained face "You were crying" he had questioned and she had looked at him through moist eyes "No" she had lied almost immediately dropping her gaze. How could she tell him she knew, that she understood the resentment, the guilt, the fear.... everything. "You lie" he had accused softly pushing her chin up with his palm he made her watch him. "Do you not find me beautiful?" she had interrogated him her eyes searching his soul for answers. She could see disbelief etched over his face replaced by an irrevocable emptiness.
"You'r charming" he had stated blandly "and thats why you never need me" she had whispered in a self explanatory tone. "That is not the truth" he had lashed out unexpectedly causing her to spill her burning coffee on her hand and she had whimpered as her skin burnt. "Can't you be careful" he had admonished her for her laxity towards herself clear water drops settled on his hands as he held hers in his. "Do you love me?" she had questioned him once again her physical anguish no longer important "No" he had remarked it had been the plain truth in his opinion. "Then why did you marry me?" she had cried in a restrained voice causing his spirits to peak. He clenched his fists and jerked his head slightly as if trying to make up his mind but he reasoned it was best if done. "You and I are not married on the contrary I almost ran you down you with my car on my way back to Mumbaii from Simla. You'r not my wife and the only woman I haven't felt the need to touch for my own selfish desires". There he had done it, it wasn't as hard as he had expected it to be he had felt a relieving feeling settle over him but one look at her and his tranquil state had taken a nose dive. She had gone as pale as a sheet her jaw clamped tight she had stared at him with the utmost of helplessness making him regret uttering the truth out loud.
"I knew you hated me but to such an extent as to spin lies about our relationship" she couldn't go on further placing her cup in the tray she had stood up to pull out a dress from the cupboard. Minutes later he had heard the shower running in the washroom she probably was fighting her battle standing in the shower punishing herself for loving him, he had to stop her stuffing his hands in his bathrobe he had followed her there to find her denuded to the core. She had closed her eyes letting her tears mingle with the onstream of water her hands were drawn around her attempting to cover the little they could attempt to. Water droplets fell freely on her hair dripping wet streaming down her milky skin in small rivulets. Milind had seen better in his years but somehow it was beyond her physical beauty that had entranced him Prachi had not heard him enter she was too immersed in her own agony to pay heed to him. He noticed her body was trembling which meant she was crying for a split second Milind had been compelled to kiss those plump practically shivering lips insane but a sudden revelation had him stoned. She was not his to have in any way not unless she wanted to be his "I'm sorry" he had muttered before walking out again slamming the door shut and Prachi's tears had fallen harder and faster. Stepping out of the shower a few minutes later she had pulled on her garmets in a frenzy and had brushed her hair back before slipping on her shoes. Watching her get ready with such atomic forcibility Milind's suspicion had been aroused. "Where are you going?" he had commanded to be enlightened. "Away" she had replied tracing her dupatta before placing across her neck and had tried to brush past him when he held her by her arm. "Away as in" he had arched his eyebrows grimly "Away as in hell... let go of me" she had struggled in his iron hold "What do you care if I live or die...... you clearly are not ready to retain any relationship with me you can go back to your world and let me be" she could feel an onset of fresh tears which she fought hard to restrain.
"I care" he had whispered "No you don't" she had derided him instantly "Don't be so sure" he had gazed at her tenderly making her cry. "All this is a farce for you, if we do not share a relationship I have no right to be here" she had begged him to let her go tugging at her hands which he had imprisoned in his own. "Stay.... " he had whispered pulling her face towards his he had implanted a firm kiss on her lips stopping her from struggling further he felt her sink against him her body falling limp she was hiccupping now. "I need you ... don't go" he had murmured against her mouth.... "Then make me feel you desire me" she had breathed heavily against him her tears brushing against his lips "Are you willing to be mine" he had made her gaze at him hope etched over his face for the first time... in a very long time. "I wish to be your's" she had replied burying her face in the wide expanse of his chest "Then mine you will be" he had murmured gently before pulling her closer to him settling his lips on her rose lips.
Part 12
It seemed as if eons had passed with her face against his chest her body encaved within his as he held her to his heart. He could feel the tremors subsiding her breathing slower cupping her face he had made her look at him once again her eyelids were wet and he had traced the remnants of a few stray tears to their place of origin... her eyes. She had moaned ever so slightly fighting the urge to tell him that she loved him, had done so for some time now yet she couldn't and the acknowledgement of the fact had her saddened again. "Milind" she had spelt his name as if whispering a prayer and he had bent down to smother her mouth with all the passion he could feel oscillating through him. He had captured her lips in his own and she had given in to the vulnerable desires that tugged at her heart parting her lips in submission as he delved in deeper her mouth inviting his. The fervor was defining his touch magical and she had felt herself give in completely as his lips traced an invisible path down her neck causing her stomach to churn, her hands had clutched his bathrobe her fingers sinking in the woollen fabric. He had stopped then as suddenly as he had started making her open her eyes to find him gaze at her his deep black ones swimming in desire.
"Grant me today Milind" she had requested unexpectedly "I'm all your's" he had immediately assented pressing her fingertips against his full lips. She had lead him to the bed and seating him had proceeded to feed him his breakfast halfway through the exercise he had clasped her hand stalling her and had put the bread to her lips. "Eat!" he had said something between a plead and an instruction and she had complied. He noticed the morning paper on the bed and had leafed through it finding their pictures adorning page three their kiss most definitely the highlight of the day. "New bait or new start?" the caption was intriguing she noticed he had smiled studying the picture. "It felt good" he had admitted to her "though I'm sorry I used you to get back at Ayesha.... I shouldn't have. But then I'm not a rational being and impulse is all I act one.... a beast... she used to call me" he had lauged a hollow laugh consternation evident from his face. "You'r my beast" she had susurrused softly tracing his mouth before leaning in to place a small kiss on it. He had pulled her to him making her lie beside him "I'm not all good.... don't love me" he had whispered playing with her moist strands "It is not in my hands to stop my heart, it loves on its own accord and you it has chosen" she had disclosed the plain truth to him. "This is not good" he had murmured kissing her cheek "Life without you is not good" she had mumbled against his ear closing her eyes as his ardor piqued and he had kissed her raw rendering her breathless with his pent up passion. "How can you be so giving?" he had wanted to know placing her atop himself her head resting on his chest as he brushed his fingers through her hair "It is only you I wish to give... all I have.. all I own... all that is mine" she had explained playing with the whorls on his chest feeling his warmth against her cheek as he embraced her.
"And what do you hold?" he had questioned amused at her declaration "Nothing" she had accepted "Not even a name" and he had felt his chest go damp. Fondling her he had sit up resting against the head board cradling her in his arms "You will have one... soon... but patience is the key. I need to discover your past let your family know about you before I make you mine... forever" he had smiled at her and she had sobbed against him enclosing him within her soft hold. "Sshhh" he had shushed her gently rocking her "I want to do it right this time, for once I want to know what it feels like to be loved and not to be judged for being myself." "You vest too much of faith in me" she had cried "Does it bother you?" he had asked surprised "It frightens me" she had bared her fears to him. "I like you that way... makes you more desirable" he had soothed her kissing her temple wiping her tears away. "So what do you propose we do today... now that I am at your service" he had inquired happiness evident from his tone making her smile at him her eyes shining. "Pray" she had informed him as he shook his head in denial "I am not at good terms with HIM" he had scoffed at her advice. "Won't you do it for me?" she had questioned him and he had sighed defeatedly "HE will see through the act" "Let Him" she had cajoled him "I want you by my side when I ask Him for your happiness" she had slipped out of his hold getting off the bed. "Why not your own?" he had queried in astonishment "It starts and ends with you" she had answered gravely compelling him to stand up and hug her "You burden my soul" he had confided in her as she placed her lips on his cheek "Love should not be a burden rather a source of bliss...." she had explained. "It never has been he had lamented "There's always a first time" she had smiled and he had pulled her to him in a long deliberate kiss lingering on to her words, her acceptance and her love.
Placing the empty tray on the kitchen counter Prachi had found Kaka walking down the stairs he appeared worried an unsettling frown creasing his forehead "Is everything alright Kaka?" she had asked concern evident from her tone. "I don't think so Sukriti seems to be upset won't tell me why either and I'm the only one she speaks to in this house" he had sighed flummoxed at Sukriti's behaviour. He had gone to her room to remind her that she had an art exhibition to attend that day and had found her lying on her bed shedding silent tears dressed that too. He wondered why she still hadn't come down for breakfast she usually appeared in the dining area at around ten but today it was past ten and she was still in no mood for any out door activity "Sukriti beta what is wrong?" he had patted her head gently which had made her cry all the more "Why Kaka why.... why did I do it" she had mumbled despondently. "Did what darling" Kaka had wiped away her tears lovingly. He had helped take care of her since the day she was born her mother had not been an affectionate woman often Sukriti would be left crying in want of a feed or a change while Ratti attended parties or went clubbing leaving the infant behind. It would be Kaka who would run to the nursery and gather her in his arms soothing her putting the bottle to her lips watching her kindly as she would suck up the contents with teary eyes her tiny hands holding on to him tightly.
Like Milind Sukriti too was attached to Kaka at a deep level he was the only soul who had helped her during her initial years and the years to come had proved fateful for her. Her mother's indifference hurt her while her father buried herself beneath piles of paperwork her brother loathed her sight depressed and dejected she had fallen prey to Saket's boyish charms and he had managed to placate her with his promises of undying love for her. But then they had slipped giving in to physical hunger being naiive enough to go ahead with love making without taking any precautions, the net result was disaster. Sukriti had turned out to be a loving mother the moment she had come to know of another life growing within her she had thanked God for finally allowing her to call someone her own. She had been fool enough to consider it smooth sailing her mother had been unhappy with her decision to give birth to the illegitimate child. She had wished to barter her to some wealthy business man and reap the fruits of her sinister plans while Sukriti had poured water on all her hard work by falling pregnant that too out of wedlock. By the time her father had come to know of her misery it was too late she was already two months pregnant and had vehemently refused to abort the child at any cost. Mishraji had then begged of Milind to marry Ayesha for her sake and he had assented unknown to Sukriti, the twin marriages had taken place almost immediately and Sukriti was on cloud nine. But her happiness was short lived Saket was much older to her and the sole reason of the marriages had been to teach Milind a lesson he would never forget. Saket and Milind were college rivals they had attended the same college it was only fate that girls found Milind handsomer his brusque and alien attitude towards them enchanted them and nearly all of them were head over heels in love with him. Saket burnt in a jealous rage to see his limelight being snatched brutally by Milind, while Milind burnt the midnight oil to make his business a sure success Saket had enjoyed the luxury of his father's goodwill and reputation. Even after they had graduated and opted for business as potential careers there was always a static tension that ensued between them their field of work being the same.
Where Saket's carefree ways and lack of principles earned him a bad reputation Milind's curt but honest way of dealing had clients impressed he was a workaholic and ended up doing almost everything to perfection which allowed him to soar high amongst his peers. His hard earned success irked Saket and it was then that he formulated the plan to entrap Sukriti and employ her for his heinous motives she poor girl had been used as a ruse for bringing down her innocent brother. "Shall I go talk to her?" Prachi had asked Kaka it was time she cleared the air between the siblings "Go slow with her.... she is still very young and has suffered much" Kaka had requested equivocally and she had given him a nod of assent taking to the winding stairs herself. On reaching the room she had gently tapped on the woodwork to hear muffled sobs emanate from within turning the handle she had let herself in to find Sukriti in the position Kaka had described her in to be earlier. "Sukriti" she had called to her gently but received no response walking over to the queen sized bed she had found the young mother clutching the sole photograph of her new born to her heart weeping in maternal infliction. "SukritiI" Prachi had exclaimed unhappily taking a seat beside her on the foam brushing back her errant locks as they blew over her face. "Sukriti... talk to me please" Prachi had coaxed her to conversation yet Sukriti remained unmoved. Prachi had gently lifted her head and placed it in her lap combing her tresses with love "You miss your baby " she had whispered and Sukriti had moaned like an animal in pain her hands bracing the picture frame to her chest. "Sameera......" she had sobbed "I want my baby....I want to hold her" she had hiccuped badly and Prachi had bent down to kiss her dewy forehead her own eyes spilling hot tears it broke her heart to see her that way yet she was unable to alleviate her anguish. "Sukriti sweetheart we'll go meet her... please don't cry" Prachi had soothed her tenderly. "I deserve to be punished bhabhi... I deserve all this pain... it is because of me bhaiyya had to suffer at Ayesha and mom's hands. She raped him and I never knew" Sukriti had cried miserably she had been enlightened but how was the big question.
"Sweetheart you weren't even born then" Prachi had assuaged her "How could mom do that to him and I kept blaming him for leaving Ayesha. Kept blaming him for my failed marriage" Sukriti had sit up now facing Prachi her fingers tracing the contours of her baby in the picture. "I have suffered for my mother's evil deeds why did she put bhaiyya through this affliction, he hates me now" she had confided in Prachi as she hugged her. "No darling he doesn't hate you on the contrary he hates himself for your state..... your silence and indifference cuts through him. He loves you Sukriti, he sacrificed his happiness for you, consented to marry Ayesha so that Saket would accept you" Prachi had explained in low tones carressing Sukriti's cheek. "I know bhabhi" Sukriti had remarked ruefully "If you had known Sukriti why did you never speak to Milind he is under the impression that you are unaware of the entire deal" Prachi had questioned a teary eyed Sukriti. "I heard your conversation with Kaka in the kitchen when I came down for breakfast. I wasted so much time trying to shift the blame on him" her eyes had welled up again. "It was fate Sukriti you couldn't have changed it anyways but what you can do is tell him that the past is no more important. Talk to him Sukriti he is very lonely" Prachi had expatiated on Sukriti's next course of action. "Do you think he will forgive me bhabhi?" she had inquired dubiously "I'm sure he already has" Prachi had smiled thumbing away the last of Sukriti's tears she made her stand up taking the picture from her hand she watched the tiny baby in Sukriti's loving arms as Sukriti smiled at her cherished offspring. "She's beautiful" Prachi had whispered placing the frame back on the dresser "Come on now lets have breakfast I'm sure artists get hungry too" she had laughed and Sukriti had squeezed her hand affectionately. "I'm so glad bhaiyya found you I know you'll make him a happy man" Sukriti had said genuinely elated at her brother's good fate to have married an angel.
Raghu looked on surprised as Prachi handed him the list of items to be bought from the market "All this madam" he had watched her strangely "Yes Raghu all this and fast, I expect you to adhere to the call immediately and please ask the pundit in the temple down the road to arrive here at twelve to conduct the prayers". Raghu's eyes had widened to the size of saucers "A pooja!" he had exclaimed in astonishment he wondered if she was aware of the cold war his master had waged with the Creator. "Are you sure?" he had considered it best to confirm it "Positive" she had smiled handing him the shopping list watching him get in the car amazed with the current change in events. Prachi had entered the house to see Milind seated on the sofa flicking channels bored to the core "Milind we have such a wonderful garden why don't you ever go sit there?" she had pouted plucking the remote control from his hands. "Fine we'll have a picnic today" he had winked at her "As you wish" she had consented and he had pulled her in his arms showering her face with copious kisses while she giggled enjoying his love and attention sighing happily leaning in on him as he pulled her on his lap. "What will you treat me to" he had questioned nibbling her earlobe "All my love" she had whispered close to his ear making him rub his stubble against her pink cheeks the amor would have continued if Sukriti hadn't coughed to make them aware of her presence. Milind hadn't noticed Sukriti sitting at the dining table quietly eating her breakfast as his eyes met hers, his had appeared to be startled registering her presence and he had immediately let go of Prachi.
"I'll be in my room if you need anything" he had told her roughly before trudging up the stairs to call Sharma up he couldn't let his work suffer just because he had happened to have a change of heart. Sukriti's eyes had followed his ascent sadly while Kaka and Prachi had exchanged fretful glances. Sukriti couldn't find the courage to confront her brother let alone apologize to him and Milind hadn't been very evocative on his sentiments for her either they stood at a standstill willing to overlook their mistakes yet unable to communicate. Prachi had walked up to Sukriti then smiling at her "He'll come around, after breakfast you can help me with the pooja" she had tried to make light of the situation and Sukriti had simply nodded she had no other choice but to wait. The rest of the morning had passed in chores the two girls had kept themselves busy with the arrangements for the pooja while Milind had engrossed himself in discussing the details of his latest project with Sharma keeping in touch with him via internet. Raghu had returned with the required items sooner than expected and at precisely twelve the pundit too had arrived to complete the rituals for the prayers. The carpet having been laid the fire burnt brightly in the stove erected in the middle of the lounge while Prachi Sukriti Milind and Kaka were assembled around it when Baba had joined the small company. Milind's eyes had darkened almost immediately and he had attempted to stand up when he felt his hand imprisoned in a gentle hold he glanced down to see it imprisoned in her wrist she had looked up at him with pleading eyes to allow his father's presence amidst them, his eyes had narrowed spelling serious displeasure. "Please" she had mouthed her eyes shining with unshed tears she had so wanted the pooja to be a family affair and since it was supposed to be for the peace and prosperity of the household it was only fair that her father in law be a part of it. "Let go of me" he had hissed mutinously and she had closed her eyes in despair the tears freed of their captivity crystal drops adorned the back of his hand as he glowered at her. This was classic blackmail and he was not going to fall for it if his father was to be a part of this he most definitely would not.
"Milind" she had whispered clasping his hand once again resting her head on his arm. "Please Milind let him stay" she had whimpered he could feel her tears soak his sleeve why did she care he still could not understand. The pundit had started chanting the mantras and he had looked around him desperately he could see three sets of eyes requesting begging him to stay God what had she done to them all to make them so in accordance with her. His eyes had flicked to Kaka who had gesticulated for him to stay his own kind eyes conversing with Milind's and he had been forced to resign to her will after much inner debate it was just one pooja he could afford to put up an act.... but just this once he had promised himself settling back in his place right beside her. "What crap woman, you don't let me do anything on my will" he had admonished her in loving tones while a smile had formed on her lips. They had followed the activities prescribed by the pundit with closed eyes and conjoined hands and had prayed for peace of the heart and mind. Mishraji had been jubilant when she had invited him to the prayers downstairs earlier that morning "Papa it is time to make amends, please come to the pooja I need you to be there" she had entreated him and he had been only too happy to comply to her wishes. He could see the visible bond of love and trust she had woven around the family binding them together with threads of compassion and had prayed for her to be a part of their lives forever. After distributing the prasad amongst all present Prachi had helped Raghu and Kaka clear away the lounge and had set about to cooking the picnic lunch Milind had expressed his wish to have in their garden much to Kaka's pleasure. "Child you certainly have a way with him" he had smiled patting her head gently and she had smiled back at him happy to see her ruffian finally being tamed. Sukriti had arrived at the kitchen confounded on her brother's apathy when Prachi had struck upon a bright idea handing her the coconuts she and Mishraji had relished the day before she had asked her to take them to Milind while Sukriti had given her an icy look. "Bhabhi you know he doesn't like them" she had tried to keep her ire at bay. "Try it with this I'm sure he'll love them" Prachi had handed her a bowl full of the dessicated brown sugar "have some yourself too" she had laughed good naturedly as Sukriti balanced the tray and walked up to her brother's room scared to the core. Well she had to face him some day and today was no different than any other besides he had appeared mellowed and much to everyone's surprise had attended the pooja too which meant he was in a benevolent mood if only he would forgive her too.
Part 13
Milind flicked through the morning paper for the millionth time going through the article.... it was just perfect, he had thrown it carelessly on the coffee table beside the sofas after having been finally done with it. He could almost picture Ayesha writhing in a jealous remorse his arrow had most certainly hit bull's eye, he was damn sure of it. He had grinned then one of his lopsided ones that made adorned his features when he closed in for the kill. He could not however put a finger on his own take for his feelings towards Prachi. He had just made a call to his private detective it had been sleek but he had doubts and had an inkling his suspicions would be confirmed soon and that was what he dreaded. He had avoided gathering information on Prachi out of fear, fear that the dream he had been dreaming would be shattered most savagely. His eyes scoured the green vegetation dotted with yellows and pinks outside the open windows, she was right he did own a magnificent garden, there, he was thinking of her again. It was as if she ruled him subconsciously, held a magnetic charm that pulled him towards her, her tears were unbearable to him and her gentle hum of a voice was all he yearned to hear forever. Why did the heart mistake repitetively he pondered running a hand over the patterened fabric of the curtain near the window, him trusting her with his heart... would it prove to be yet another folly on his part. She was so genuinely in love with him... he had made himself believe that her eyes they were the windows to her soul and he had read many in his short life time. Her's were untainted by malice or prejudice yet there was the constant cognizance that it was all too good... too good to be true. Fate was never this kind destiny a slave master who prided itself on its chattel being driven with a whiplash capable of skinning them alive. And then the truth in all its complexities Ratti he could never put that fateful night out of his mind, he had tried everything well almost if that was to be said. Drugs, liquour the empty solace of women in his bed but nothing had worked it had always been the same. He still had nightmares of Ratti unbuttoning him, clawing him, feeding off him and he would sit up with a cold sweat drenching his body. How he hated the woman and the one that had followed her... Ayesha, she was no good either she was as lustful as Ratti the only difference was he was not fifteen and was capable of giving it all back to her ten folds. But the pathetic creature thrived on his vengeance because it made him go insane and that was a source of pleasure to her. He had placed his hands on his eyes tired of it all, of the thoughts, the memories they haunted him and he was unable to put an end to it.
He would have gone on with the unperturbed observation of the lawns had he not heard a gentle almost inaudible knock on the door. "Come in" he had permitted entrance and was surprised to see Sukriti push the door open holding a tray laden with coconuts... he wondered if she had indeed turned into a nut herself knowing full well he bore no liking to the fruit. He had resumed his position on the sofa raising his hand to gesticulate her to follow he noticed she fidgeted involuntarily. "Bh.. bhabhi ss.. sent this" she had elaborated on her arrival she could feel his penetrating gaze slicing through he did not need words to express the fact that he condemned her very existence. "And you forgot to tell her I don't like it" he had remarked in a seemingly plain tone. "I..I.. I.. " she stuttered the bowls rattling in the tray as her hands shivered he was alarmed to see her in such a despicable state of mind yet refrained from saying it aloud. "Sukriti" he had murmured standing up taking the tray from her hands and placing it on the coffee table. That had been the precise moment when Sukriti had rushed forward and had embraced him with all her might. He looked down at the soft tresses on her head astonished at her behaviour only when he strained his hears did he hear the muffled sobs that managed to escape her sealed lips. "Sukriti" he had called out again but she remained stoned eyes closed heart pounding expecting him to push her away any instant. He had felt his arms surround her in a protective enclosure "Sukriti... what happened?" his voice was soft this time like the running of a hidden stream. "Bhaiyya... I'm sorry" she had whispered pressed against his chest afraid that if she dared to look up he might just let go. He had closed his eyes in a long awaited content breathing in the flowery fragrance of his baby sister he had dared to love against the better judgement of his mind. He had kissed the top of her head in a cautious move resting his chin on it letting the pain between them diffuse and vanish he could've stood there like that forever but the fact that she awaited acceptance of her apology brought him back to the present. Guiding her to the sofa he made her sit she still held on to him too frightened to hold his gaze. "Sukriti" he had addressed her again and this time he had felt a movement against his chest the certitude that he had not pushed her away had granted her faith and she had willed herself to meet his eyes. "Sorry for what?" he was still uncertain "For everything bhaiyya.... for me, Sameera, Saket, Ayesha and...... mom" she had whispered unhappily. She felt his arms slackening around her and had hid her face in her palms the shame and the guilt were overpowering and she felt her confidence disperse within a split second.
"Leave Sameera out of it, she poor child was never a part of this rather elaborate gameplan" he had remarked firmly making her weep inconsolably. Finding it beyond her tolerance to see him remain unmoved she had taken to the carpeted floor touching his feet in repentence "If you can bhaiyya forgive me... I never knew of your tormenting past until today and for that I hold myself responsible. I know I have sinned but Saket was the only one who had been willing enough to love me and I believed him." Milind had been rather taken aback to see her clasp his feet and had pulled her up in his sinewy arms the next instant. "That's enough" he had admonished her act harshly making her sit beside him on the sofa. "But I have made you suffer bhaiyya, you wouldn't have had to marry Ayesha if it weren't for me" she had peered at his grim face with teary eyes. "I would have married Medusa for you Suki... Ayesha was just another witch" he had whispered "You don't hate me?" she had inquired sanguinely blinking back her tears. " I never could punish you, you were my sister and that was what mattered at the end of the day... your happiness. It's just too bad I was never able to give it to you completely" he had narrated to her grief stricken and she had leant forward to kiss his cheek. "It was just not meant to be, one cannot build one's own paradise on another's grave" she had twisted her fingers miserably and he had taken her hands in his own stopping her from punishing herself. "I'm so sorrry for Sameera" he had mumbled and she had felt her tears flow again her baby, her daughter snatched away from her by her heartless father. She had clutched his kurta as he held her close venting her agony through tears "I.. I.. mm.. mm.. miss her... mm.. my ... baby" she hiccuped and Milind had felt his own eyes cloud with moisture. He had a fair idea of her torment many a nights when suffering from sleeplessness he had crossed her room to hear her wailing and on further inspection would find her clutching her daughter's photograph to her bosom crying in repentance. "Sukriti.. shush... don't cry... I promise I'll bring her back in this house even if it means paying that b*****d all I have". "No bhaiyya no" Sukriti had shaken her head vehemently "No don't let him succeed all he ever wanted was to have what you have built with tireless effort. He just needed to hurt us and he has done that, don't grovel to him for me. All this is not mine it is bhabhi's now and she deserves her happiness" she had held his hands in her own placing them against her cheeks shedding tears of remorse. "All this is your's and Sameera's too Sukriti you are as much family as she.... and don't worry I'll deal with Saket myself" he had kissed her forehead with love wiping her tears smiling at her. "Now we better try what your bhabhi has sent for us she certainly has the most crazy ideas" he had chuckled making Sukriti smile. "She says it's nice with the sugar" Sukriti had informed him sprinkling a generous helping for him on the snowy flesh of the fruit. He had bitten in and had smiled it was indeed a bizzarre but rather wonderful combination "You know this is actually very good" he had laughed making Sukriti bite in his share. "Yes bhaiyya this is different but really tasty" she had giggled assenting to his declaration and between them they had polished the plate clean.
Prachi had finished draining the fries in the sieve and had placed them on the kitchen paper when she saw both brother and sister beaming at each other coming down the stairs with a practically empty tray. She had smiled to herself atleast one of her missions had been accomplished the serenity etched on their faces was not missed by her as she greeted them with a wide grin. "Just in time, I finished preparing lunch" she had announced pointing to the packed picnic hamper "You think we'd have space left after you made us stuff that delicacy" Sukriti had laughed gingerly and Milind had tousled her hair fondly. "I'm sure you'll find lots of space in your stomach once the hamper is opened" he had winked at Prachi compulsively whose heart had missed a beat in that moment. Their eyes had locked and Prachi had found herself drowning in the abysses he had for eyes Sukriti had smiled watching them lost in each other. Her heart swelling with happiness to see her ever scowling brother wear a distracted look on his face practically ogling his gorgeous wife. "Ahem!" Sukriti had coughed purposely breaking their fixation off each other they had almost guiltily averted their gazes. Sukriti had giggled stuffing a nearly cool chip in her mouth. Milind had grinned at her pulling her to him squeezing her head between his chest and armpit "That's it today we rid ourselves of all pests in this house" he had remarked jocundly while Sukriti squealed from under his arm. "Save me bhabhi save me... else I will breathe my last" and Prachi had given them an off handed smile this was what she had wanted her family happy and blithe. "Then you accept you are a pest" Milind had guffawed his throaty laughter reverberating within the dining area. "No!" had come a defiant mumble from underneath his arm where Sukriti stood pinned to him pleading to Prachi to aid her. Suppressing an urge to laugh aloud Prachi had practically yanked Milind's arm from around her sister in law freeing her.
"What was that for?" Milind had asked surprised to see her on Sukriti's side. "Now you'r with the enemy" he had accused "that means you too will be punished in similar fashion" he had threatened her his eyes gleaming with the prospect of holding her close. "Well there practically is no need to waste energy when I just got the pest repellent at a very cheap rate from the market" Prachi had flashed the siblings an endearing smiling causing Milind to break in a rippling laughter while Sukriti had run off. "I'm not going to be sprayed to death and that, bhabhi, is cheating" she had thrown it at them taking to the lawns outside. Prachi had laughed softly while Milind had pulled her in his arms nuzzling her neck passionately "Thank you" he had whispered and Prachi had placed her index finger on his lips silencing him. "There is nothing as an apology or gratitude in love I'm happy you found out she loves you too" she had smiled and Milind had placed his lips on her forehead hoping for this to be a permanent fixture in his otherwise lonely life. "Mmm" she had murmured soaking herself in his love that drenched her to the core "Prachi" he had whispered conspiratorially and she had gazed at him with love struck eyes "I.." he murmured.. "Yes" she had encouraged him impatient to hear sweet nothings from him. "I'm.. quite hungry.. can we just go outside" Milind had managed a straight face whereas Prachi had looked at him surprise evident from her wide eyes. He certainly had pulled her leg but she had found it rather sweet and slipping her hand in his own she had picked up the fries while he carried the hamper making their way to the gardens outside. The afternoon was spent in carefree activities spreading a blanket in a shady haunt the three of them had munched on burgers coleslaw fries and chicken rice prepared expertly by Prachi. Kaka had taken to a nap and Mishraji had been served by him in his room, a pleasing breeze blew through the length and breath of the lawns swaying the tall trees in rhythm. Clearing the eatables away Sukriti had asked Milind to tie her a tyre swing to one of the low branches in the apple tree.
Milind had laughed at her childish desire but nonetheless had proceeded to fish for a spare tyre from his garage depriving it of a rim he had then proceeded to tie it to a low branch of a nearby tree. Sukriti's joy knew no bounds as she hopped inside the tyre pumping her legs to fly high in the air. Prachi sat sated watching the siblings interact easily after the initial pushes Milind had trudged back to where Prachi sat awaiting him resting against the broad trunk of a palm. She had flexed her legs and Milind had plopped down beside her making himself comfortable on her lap. This certainly had been the most soothing afternoon he had spent in his entire lifetime. Prachi had cupped his bearded face in her tender palm while the other one smoothed his vagrant curls he had sighed in content a distinct calm blanketing him. "She looks so happy" Prachi had remarked watching Sukriti swing nearby "She's just fifteen happiness comes easy at this age" he had murmured. "Fifteen!" Prachi had repeated amazed "That means she was fourteen when she had Sameera" she had questioned stunned at the revelation. "Yes fourteen... too young to understand what a grave mistake she had made. I can't understand why Ratti never took care of her, the woman I believe never cared for anyone besides herself" he had replied his tone smarting and Prachi had bent down to kiss his supple lips. "Don't think of her Milind" she had advised him and he had opened his eyes to stare at her glistening ones. "How can I not everytime I see Sukriti I'm reminded of what she did to her. I was the step child not she.... how could she have neglected her own daughter.... and that father of mine never had the time to spend with the child. She never felt loved whilst having a father and mother they were both criminals to indulge themselves in work and leisure without sparing a second thought to the girl. What has she now an empty future, long nights crying for her baby. I can't see her that way" Prachi could gauge his anger that was bubbling within him his hands holding on to hers for emotional support. He needed to get it out of his system and she was willing to oblige. "Milind you can't undo the past" she had tried to relax him "Yes I can't but I can shape her future.. it's time she joined school again and finished her studies. I wish to see her independent to give it back to low lifes like Saket" he had growled his eyes trained on a smiling Sukriti who had waved at him catching his eye and he had forced a smile in acknowledgment.
She was his responsibility and he would see to it that she got everything she wished for, she had been through enough pain... enough to last her a lifetime. He had closed his eyes again inhaling the fragrances of sweet smelling flowers, the partially wet soil, the dewy grass and her beside him. After a while Milind had found Prachi slumped against the tree trunk and he had thought it best to alleviate her of himself standing up he had picked her in his robust arms she had dozed off probably tired after her fruitful activities in the kitchen that morning. Sukriti had come running up to him watching him leave "Suki pick up the hamper and blanket I'm going to put her to bed" he had instructed and she had nodded folding the blanket and picking up the hamper she had followed her brother indoors. Once inside their bedroom he had lain her on the mattress covering her with the silken sheets as she slumbered undisturbed much to his relief. He watched her amorously love shining in his eyes tracing the slightly voluptuous mounds of flesh she had for lips and lowering himself in level with her had kissed her most assiduously. Leaving her to rest he had taken to the laptop taking to a few chores he had left incomplete due to the pooja earlier in the day. The hands on the clock moved silently while he typed on the keyboard oblivious of time and space immersed in work consequently his phone had rung and he had walked out in the balcony so that Prachi may not be awoken on his account. "Yes Mr Patel any news on her?" he had asked his heart pounding like a piston. "I'm afraid sir the news is not very good" Patel's voice had floated from the ear piece his fists had balled querulously and he had held his breath as the detective had supplied him a complete account of her. "Thank you Mr Patel" he had heard himself say clicking the phone shut he had stood in the balcony for a very long time a lone tear escaping his heavy eyelids..... why was fate so cruel.
Milind flicked through the morning paper for the millionth time going through the article.... it was just perfect, he had thrown it carelessly on the coffee table beside the sofas after having been finally done with it. He could almost picture Ayesha writhing in a jealous remorse his arrow had most certainly hit bull's eye, he was damn sure of it. He had grinned then one of his lopsided ones that made adorned his features when he closed in for the kill. He could not however put a finger on his own take for his feelings towards Prachi. He had just made a call to his private detective it had been sleek but he had doubts and had an inkling his suspicions would be confirmed soon and that was what he dreaded. He had avoided gathering information on Prachi out of fear, fear that the dream he had been dreaming would be shattered most savagely. His eyes scoured the green vegetation dotted with yellows and pinks outside the open windows, she was right he did own a magnificent garden, there, he was thinking of her again. It was as if she ruled him subconsciously, held a magnetic charm that pulled him towards her, her tears were unbearable to him and her gentle hum of a voice was all he yearned to hear forever. Why did the heart mistake repitetively he pondered running a hand over the patterened fabric of the curtain near the window, him trusting her with his heart... would it prove to be yet another folly on his part. She was so genuinely in love with him... he had made himself believe that her eyes they were the windows to her soul and he had read many in his short life time. Her's were untainted by malice or prejudice yet there was the constant cognizance that it was all too good... too good to be true. Fate was never this kind destiny a slave master who prided itself on its chattel being driven with a whiplash capable of skinning them alive. And then the truth in all its complexities Ratti he could never put that fateful night out of his mind, he had tried everything well almost if that was to be said. Drugs, liquour the empty solace of women in his bed but nothing had worked it had always been the same. He still had nightmares of Ratti unbuttoning him, clawing him, feeding off him and he would sit up with a cold sweat drenching his body. How he hated the woman and the one that had followed her... Ayesha, she was no good either she was as lustful as Ratti the only difference was he was not fifteen and was capable of giving it all back to her ten folds. But the pathetic creature thrived on his vengeance because it made him go insane and that was a source of pleasure to her. He had placed his hands on his eyes tired of it all, of the thoughts, the memories they haunted him and he was unable to put an end to it.
He would have gone on with the unperturbed observation of the lawns had he not heard a gentle almost inaudible knock on the door. "Come in" he had permitted entrance and was surprised to see Sukriti push the door open holding a tray laden with coconuts... he wondered if she had indeed turned into a nut herself knowing full well he bore no liking to the fruit. He had resumed his position on the sofa raising his hand to gesticulate her to follow he noticed she fidgeted involuntarily. "Bh.. bhabhi ss.. sent this" she had elaborated on her arrival she could feel his penetrating gaze slicing through he did not need words to express the fact that he condemned her very existence. "And you forgot to tell her I don't like it" he had remarked in a seemingly plain tone. "I..I.. I.. " she stuttered the bowls rattling in the tray as her hands shivered he was alarmed to see her in such a despicable state of mind yet refrained from saying it aloud. "Sukriti" he had murmured standing up taking the tray from her hands and placing it on the coffee table. That had been the precise moment when Sukriti had rushed forward and had embraced him with all her might. He looked down at the soft tresses on her head astonished at her behaviour only when he strained his hears did he hear the muffled sobs that managed to escape her sealed lips. "Sukriti" he had called out again but she remained stoned eyes closed heart pounding expecting him to push her away any instant. He had felt his arms surround her in a protective enclosure "Sukriti... what happened?" his voice was soft this time like the running of a hidden stream. "Bhaiyya... I'm sorry" she had whispered pressed against his chest afraid that if she dared to look up he might just let go. He had closed his eyes in a long awaited content breathing in the flowery fragrance of his baby sister he had dared to love against the better judgement of his mind. He had kissed the top of her head in a cautious move resting his chin on it letting the pain between them diffuse and vanish he could've stood there like that forever but the fact that she awaited acceptance of her apology brought him back to the present. Guiding her to the sofa he made her sit she still held on to him too frightened to hold his gaze. "Sukriti" he had addressed her again and this time he had felt a movement against his chest the certitude that he had not pushed her away had granted her faith and she had willed herself to meet his eyes. "Sorry for what?" he was still uncertain "For everything bhaiyya.... for me, Sameera, Saket, Ayesha and...... mom" she had whispered unhappily. She felt his arms slackening around her and had hid her face in her palms the shame and the guilt were overpowering and she felt her confidence disperse within a split second.
"Leave Sameera out of it, she poor child was never a part of this rather elaborate gameplan" he had remarked firmly making her weep inconsolably. Finding it beyond her tolerance to see him remain unmoved she had taken to the carpeted floor touching his feet in repentence "If you can bhaiyya forgive me... I never knew of your tormenting past until today and for that I hold myself responsible. I know I have sinned but Saket was the only one who had been willing enough to love me and I believed him." Milind had been rather taken aback to see her clasp his feet and had pulled her up in his sinewy arms the next instant. "That's enough" he had admonished her act harshly making her sit beside him on the sofa. "But I have made you suffer bhaiyya, you wouldn't have had to marry Ayesha if it weren't for me" she had peered at his grim face with teary eyes. "I would have married Medusa for you Suki... Ayesha was just another witch" he had whispered "You don't hate me?" she had inquired sanguinely blinking back her tears. " I never could punish you, you were my sister and that was what mattered at the end of the day... your happiness. It's just too bad I was never able to give it to you completely" he had narrated to her grief stricken and she had leant forward to kiss his cheek. "It was just not meant to be, one cannot build one's own paradise on another's grave" she had twisted her fingers miserably and he had taken her hands in his own stopping her from punishing herself. "I'm so sorrry for Sameera" he had mumbled and she had felt her tears flow again her baby, her daughter snatched away from her by her heartless father. She had clutched his kurta as he held her close venting her agony through tears "I.. I.. mm.. mm.. miss her... mm.. my ... baby" she hiccuped and Milind had felt his own eyes cloud with moisture. He had a fair idea of her torment many a nights when suffering from sleeplessness he had crossed her room to hear her wailing and on further inspection would find her clutching her daughter's photograph to her bosom crying in repentance. "Sukriti.. shush... don't cry... I promise I'll bring her back in this house even if it means paying that b*****d all I have". "No bhaiyya no" Sukriti had shaken her head vehemently "No don't let him succeed all he ever wanted was to have what you have built with tireless effort. He just needed to hurt us and he has done that, don't grovel to him for me. All this is not mine it is bhabhi's now and she deserves her happiness" she had held his hands in her own placing them against her cheeks shedding tears of remorse. "All this is your's and Sameera's too Sukriti you are as much family as she.... and don't worry I'll deal with Saket myself" he had kissed her forehead with love wiping her tears smiling at her. "Now we better try what your bhabhi has sent for us she certainly has the most crazy ideas" he had chuckled making Sukriti smile. "She says it's nice with the sugar" Sukriti had informed him sprinkling a generous helping for him on the snowy flesh of the fruit. He had bitten in and had smiled it was indeed a bizzarre but rather wonderful combination "You know this is actually very good" he had laughed making Sukriti bite in his share. "Yes bhaiyya this is different but really tasty" she had giggled assenting to his declaration and between them they had polished the plate clean.
Prachi had finished draining the fries in the sieve and had placed them on the kitchen paper when she saw both brother and sister beaming at each other coming down the stairs with a practically empty tray. She had smiled to herself atleast one of her missions had been accomplished the serenity etched on their faces was not missed by her as she greeted them with a wide grin. "Just in time, I finished preparing lunch" she had announced pointing to the packed picnic hamper "You think we'd have space left after you made us stuff that delicacy" Sukriti had laughed gingerly and Milind had tousled her hair fondly. "I'm sure you'll find lots of space in your stomach once the hamper is opened" he had winked at Prachi compulsively whose heart had missed a beat in that moment. Their eyes had locked and Prachi had found herself drowning in the abysses he had for eyes Sukriti had smiled watching them lost in each other. Her heart swelling with happiness to see her ever scowling brother wear a distracted look on his face practically ogling his gorgeous wife. "Ahem!" Sukriti had coughed purposely breaking their fixation off each other they had almost guiltily averted their gazes. Sukriti had giggled stuffing a nearly cool chip in her mouth. Milind had grinned at her pulling her to him squeezing her head between his chest and armpit "That's it today we rid ourselves of all pests in this house" he had remarked jocundly while Sukriti squealed from under his arm. "Save me bhabhi save me... else I will breathe my last" and Prachi had given them an off handed smile this was what she had wanted her family happy and blithe. "Then you accept you are a pest" Milind had guffawed his throaty laughter reverberating within the dining area. "No!" had come a defiant mumble from underneath his arm where Sukriti stood pinned to him pleading to Prachi to aid her. Suppressing an urge to laugh aloud Prachi had practically yanked Milind's arm from around her sister in law freeing her.
"What was that for?" Milind had asked surprised to see her on Sukriti's side. "Now you'r with the enemy" he had accused "that means you too will be punished in similar fashion" he had threatened her his eyes gleaming with the prospect of holding her close. "Well there practically is no need to waste energy when I just got the pest repellent at a very cheap rate from the market" Prachi had flashed the siblings an endearing smiling causing Milind to break in a rippling laughter while Sukriti had run off. "I'm not going to be sprayed to death and that, bhabhi, is cheating" she had thrown it at them taking to the lawns outside. Prachi had laughed softly while Milind had pulled her in his arms nuzzling her neck passionately "Thank you" he had whispered and Prachi had placed her index finger on his lips silencing him. "There is nothing as an apology or gratitude in love I'm happy you found out she loves you too" she had smiled and Milind had placed his lips on her forehead hoping for this to be a permanent fixture in his otherwise lonely life. "Mmm" she had murmured soaking herself in his love that drenched her to the core "Prachi" he had whispered conspiratorially and she had gazed at him with love struck eyes "I.." he murmured.. "Yes" she had encouraged him impatient to hear sweet nothings from him. "I'm.. quite hungry.. can we just go outside" Milind had managed a straight face whereas Prachi had looked at him surprise evident from her wide eyes. He certainly had pulled her leg but she had found it rather sweet and slipping her hand in his own she had picked up the fries while he carried the hamper making their way to the gardens outside. The afternoon was spent in carefree activities spreading a blanket in a shady haunt the three of them had munched on burgers coleslaw fries and chicken rice prepared expertly by Prachi. Kaka had taken to a nap and Mishraji had been served by him in his room, a pleasing breeze blew through the length and breath of the lawns swaying the tall trees in rhythm. Clearing the eatables away Sukriti had asked Milind to tie her a tyre swing to one of the low branches in the apple tree.
Milind had laughed at her childish desire but nonetheless had proceeded to fish for a spare tyre from his garage depriving it of a rim he had then proceeded to tie it to a low branch of a nearby tree. Sukriti's joy knew no bounds as she hopped inside the tyre pumping her legs to fly high in the air. Prachi sat sated watching the siblings interact easily after the initial pushes Milind had trudged back to where Prachi sat awaiting him resting against the broad trunk of a palm. She had flexed her legs and Milind had plopped down beside her making himself comfortable on her lap. This certainly had been the most soothing afternoon he had spent in his entire lifetime. Prachi had cupped his bearded face in her tender palm while the other one smoothed his vagrant curls he had sighed in content a distinct calm blanketing him. "She looks so happy" Prachi had remarked watching Sukriti swing nearby "She's just fifteen happiness comes easy at this age" he had murmured. "Fifteen!" Prachi had repeated amazed "That means she was fourteen when she had Sameera" she had questioned stunned at the revelation. "Yes fourteen... too young to understand what a grave mistake she had made. I can't understand why Ratti never took care of her, the woman I believe never cared for anyone besides herself" he had replied his tone smarting and Prachi had bent down to kiss his supple lips. "Don't think of her Milind" she had advised him and he had opened his eyes to stare at her glistening ones. "How can I not everytime I see Sukriti I'm reminded of what she did to her. I was the step child not she.... how could she have neglected her own daughter.... and that father of mine never had the time to spend with the child. She never felt loved whilst having a father and mother they were both criminals to indulge themselves in work and leisure without sparing a second thought to the girl. What has she now an empty future, long nights crying for her baby. I can't see her that way" Prachi could gauge his anger that was bubbling within him his hands holding on to hers for emotional support. He needed to get it out of his system and she was willing to oblige. "Milind you can't undo the past" she had tried to relax him "Yes I can't but I can shape her future.. it's time she joined school again and finished her studies. I wish to see her independent to give it back to low lifes like Saket" he had growled his eyes trained on a smiling Sukriti who had waved at him catching his eye and he had forced a smile in acknowledgment.
She was his responsibility and he would see to it that she got everything she wished for, she had been through enough pain... enough to last her a lifetime. He had closed his eyes again inhaling the fragrances of sweet smelling flowers, the partially wet soil, the dewy grass and her beside him. After a while Milind had found Prachi slumped against the tree trunk and he had thought it best to alleviate her of himself standing up he had picked her in his robust arms she had dozed off probably tired after her fruitful activities in the kitchen that morning. Sukriti had come running up to him watching him leave "Suki pick up the hamper and blanket I'm going to put her to bed" he had instructed and she had nodded folding the blanket and picking up the hamper she had followed her brother indoors. Once inside their bedroom he had lain her on the mattress covering her with the silken sheets as she slumbered undisturbed much to his relief. He watched her amorously love shining in his eyes tracing the slightly voluptuous mounds of flesh she had for lips and lowering himself in level with her had kissed her most assiduously. Leaving her to rest he had taken to the laptop taking to a few chores he had left incomplete due to the pooja earlier in the day. The hands on the clock moved silently while he typed on the keyboard oblivious of time and space immersed in work consequently his phone had rung and he had walked out in the balcony so that Prachi may not be awoken on his account. "Yes Mr Patel any news on her?" he had asked his heart pounding like a piston. "I'm afraid sir the news is not very good" Patel's voice had floated from the ear piece his fists had balled querulously and he had held his breath as the detective had supplied him a complete account of her. "Thank you Mr Patel" he had heard himself say clicking the phone shut he had stood in the balcony for a very long time a lone tear escaping his heavy eyelids..... why was fate so cruel.
Part 14.
Milind had stepped inside the carpeted vicinity to find her still asleep her hand folded beneath her face as she dreamt some elaborate vision her lips turned at the corners ever so slightly indicating the formation of an ignorant smile. His countenance had softened at the very sight of her curled up that way so childlike in constitution. Treading the woollen covering underfoot he had placed himself beside her caressing her smooth cheek with the back of his hand. He wondered whether he should divulge the details of her existence to her, it pained him to be enlightened on the fact that she was an orphan and had been jilted at the alter. Why was life so difficult for some unfortunate souls he had pondered unhappily. Deciding on revealing the stark reality of her life to her at a later date he had thought it best to keep the truth under the wraps for the moment. She had just started being happy and he couldn't snatch it all away he could feign nescience on the matter and wasn't in a hurry to own her physically. She was his he knew and there were affairs to settle before he gave in to his hunger for her. He had placed tender kisses on her cheek and forehead causing her to stir and finally awaken. "Milind" she had squinted in the lamp light beside her "Darling do you want to sleep the entire evening?" he had questioned huskily. "No" she had replied smiling "why didn't you wake me up earlier" she had complained sitting up in bed. "I thought you'd be tired" he had explained and she had leaned in to brush her lips against his. "I was" she had assented "You can go check on Sukriti I'll just take a quick shower" she had gotten out of bed. "You want me to join you?" he had asked naughtily and in return had heard the bathroom door being shut and locked. "Just my luck" he had laughed thrusting his feet in his sandals exiting the room. He had strolled to Sukriti's room then the first time he had actually gone there to have a conversation with her, he found her busy with her paints sketching a pot on the canvas. "Is that all they teach you at that blasted academy to paint pots" he had eyed the painting warily standing beside her and she had grinned. "It's still life bhaiyya... I could paint you if you volunteer to sit put for two hours straight" she had looked up at him briefly, liking the feel of his presence in her room. He made it come alive and made her feel wanted, loved and cherished "Yeah well you'd have to kill me for that... I never was into modelling" he had replied seriously his eyes dancing.
Walking towards the bookshelf he had wiped off the thin film of grime that had settled over it sifting through her old school text books which in most probability had been forgotten. "Suki I want you to put a pause to this passion of yours" he had looked at her determinedly, hands folded on chest eyes fixated on her and she understood he wanted to have a word with her on some serious issue. "But why bhaiyya?" she had questioned perplexed. "I want you to join school Suki, graduate and go to college" he had chalked out a course infront of her not giving her a choice for denial. "No I don't want to" she had hung her head in an attempt to hide her tears "Why because school reminds you of Saket and all that you lost?" he had inquired and she had nodded her head ever so slowly. Drawing a deep breath Milind had walked up to her taking the palette and brush from her hands he had placed them on the protruding back of the easel and had led her to the open windows. "Suki look outside" he had told her and she had complied "What do you see?" he had questioned next. " Our garden..... your car..... driveway" she had numbered the visible objects on her fingers "And what do you feel?" he had further befuddled her. "The wind" she had gazed at him innocently. "Can you paint the wind Suki?" he had asked and she had nodded I can paint a hurricane" she had informed him proudly. "No Suki can you paint what you feel.... the wind touching you, blowing through your hair, the happiness that springs in your heart when you swing in the garden" and Sukriti had grasped a part of what he had to say. "No bhaiyya because I cannot paint emotions" she had supplied him the answer and he had hugged her in cognizance. "Yes sweetheart you cannot paint what you feel what you go through each day but I want you to be able to live with it not run away from it. The world is a canvas your life is blank paper paint them Suki with colours of your choice." "Bhaiyya I can't" Sukriti was crying now he understood he had nicked her wounds but he had no other choice he could not let her ruin her life over one catastrophic incident and education in his belief was the key to her freedom. "I will help you Sukriti, I promise. Where ever you feel weak I will hold you if you falter I will steady you but you have to do it you owe it to yourself. This is your life and I want you to mould it, live it, love it" by now his eyes had started glazing too. He could feel her anguish, she was a part of him, his sister, his blood how could he not understand her pain or the hurt she had gone through.
"Bhaiyya what will people say about me, how will I face them?" she had questioned him and he had lifted her face to him. "You worry too much sis people have problems of their own and no one will be bothered about your past in a new school. Mishaps happen but people live despite the falls getting up stronger than before. I want you to be strong and give a damn to the world. Face the world with conviction with the knowledge that it lies at your feet" he had expatiated in low soothing tones. "Will you let me study art after I finish college?" she was still dubious "I'll let you study anything if you promise not to ask me to model for you" he had smiled and Sukriti had laughed aloud. "So you'll accompany me to Saint Xavier's tomorrow.... the principal there is a friend and I'm sure you could join almost immediately" he had acquired her consent "Yes bhaiyya I will" she had agreed to his suggestion. Standing outside the room Mishraji had been overwhelmed with happiness to see Milind bring his daughter back to life, he himself had lost all hope of ever doing so. He knew Prachi was the one who had awoken sentiments within Milind made him realize that he had a family who needed him and had pulled both his children out of their private hells. Wiping away the sudden tears that had fallen down his cheeks he had made his way to his room again even if he had not received forgiveness he was satisfied with the thought that his cildren had forgiven each other.
Leaving Sukriti to finish painting the earthenware Milind had sprinted down the stairs to see Prachi behind the kitchen counter spooning gram flour in a bowl. She looked delicate and beautiful in the pink saree she wore with her partially wet hair brushed back from her face, her lip pressed between her teeth in concentration. "Don't you ever tire of cooking?" he had appeared behind her placing his hands around her waist resting them on her stomach. "I like to keep my beast well fed" she had smiled her plush lips tempting Milind as his eyes scanned her angelic features. "Why... afraid that he might just eat you" his eyes had drooped his voice barely a whisper as he planted tender kisses on her exposed neck. "Hmm" Prachi had murmured being pulled in the vortex of love he churned within her. "Should I you then can't wait to taste you" he had enticed her further making her reciprocate his advances with equal intensity when they had heard a rustle behind them and had parted immediately. It turned out to be the wind rustling through the leaves outside the kitchen window Prachi had laughed while Milind had cursed the untimely intrusion of the breeze. "What are you making?" he had asked irritably "Pakoras" Prachi had quipped mixing chilli flakes, baking powder and cumin seeds in the gram flour. "Kaka told me you liked them.... I thought we could use some with tea" she had told him while he carefully outlined her lips with his fingers making goosebumps arise on her skin. "Well it depends on what you'r going to put in them" he had drawled and her eyes had laden with shyness he was in a perfect mood today maybe if she asked she had wondered lifting her gaze to study him intently. "I'll peel the potatoes if you want" he had offered rolling his sleeves up the elbows she had handed him the knife and the plate stacked with potatoes. Milind it seemed had never ventured into the kitchen prior to that instant he struggled with the potatoes holding one awkwardly the kitchen knife poised dangerously in his large arms. "Milind I was wondering ..." she had started hesitantly and he had grunted in response trying to stop the potato from wobbling.
"Wondering what" he had questioned eyes focused on the potato it was so easy to eat them then why wouldn't it stay still. "If Papa could accompany us at the table during meal times, he is after all part of the family" the knife had in that instant slipped from Milind's hand slashing through his flesh resulting in a deep cut on the other palm. The potato he had peeled half way was dyed crimson in blood as it gushed from the open gash. "Milind!" Prachi had screamed clasping his hand in her own she quickly led him to the sink placing his hand under the faucet running cold water over it. It seemed the wound was deep as the blood flow did not stall much to Prachi's grievance she was on the verge of crying it felt to her as if the cut had been made on her heart rather than his palm. She and her big mouth she had mentally chided herself. Asking him to stay there she had run to her own room picking up the first aid kit she had rushed down again and had started bandaging his hand. He had stayed dead silent through the entire ordeal watching her with cold eyes she knew his stance on his relationship with his father yet she chose to plead his case, why. He had tried to pull away his hand when she had held on to it firmly "You can punish me but I'm not allowing you to do that to yourself" she had stated in a dewy voice wrapping the bandage over the cut. "You know my answer to your earlier remark and that it will be. After today I want no conversation on this topic" he had made his decision clear to her in a steely tone. "But Milind he needs you" she had tried to elucidate "We needed him yet he was nowhere to be found even if I forgive him for marrying that whore who molested me... I am never, ever going to forgive him for turning a blind eye to Sukriti" he had glowered at her with such contempt it made her feel she was the culprit herself. "But it wasn't his fault" she had protested weakly "Oh really it wasn't was it" he had mocked her. "If I f***k you right now and in time you bear a b*****d that won't bloody be my f*****g fault now would it!" he had snarled wrenching his hand from her hold. His face look stoned his breathing ragged it had taken all of his patience to even broach the subject he hated his father he was the cause of all his troubles if he hadn't lain that Ratti she wouldn't have tricked him into marrying her. "A parent is responsible for the child it brings in this world and he never gave a damn to either of us..... if we were such a burden he bloody well shouldn't have let us be born in the first place". Prachi could well see the raw fury that pumped through Milind's veins as they protruded from his neck and forehead blood running through them at break neck speed he had clenched his hands in tight fists the wound on his palm being fresh dripped blood on the floor. "Milind" Prachi had sobbed holding on to his arm "Please don't do this don't hurt yourself" she had yet again held his hand in her own trying to make him open his fists. "Why should'nt I" he had retorted in a thunderous rage "You never thought twice before doing just that" his eyes had flashed it almost seemed as if they had flames kindled within them.
Shrugging her off he had stomped to his room to find the phone ring incessantly. Abandoning all thoughts of preparing any cuisine Prachi had taken after his hasty form she simply had to appease him even if it meant humiliation and sarcasm she was prepared to bear his wrath. Stepping inside the illuminated room she found him deep in conversation on the phone moving closer she could hear bits and pieces of the conversation. "Damn you scumbag you do anything to her and I swear to God I'll kill you" he had bellowed with all his might in the mouth piece making Prachi shiver in her flip flops. Who was he talking to, who was being discussed and why was he so angry at the other person all these were questions that ran rampant through her mind and she had to find answers to them for her peace and his safety. He had slammed the phone shut and had walked to the wardrobe yanking it open he grabbed a cobalt blue suit, proceeding to strip himself then and there pulling on his attire like a mad man. "Milind where are you going?" she had dared to question "None of your god damned business" he had snapped his temper on a short leash. He buttoned his pants and put on his shirt rummaging through his collection of shoes he found a pair that went with the garments. "Milind please tell me where are you going, is everything ok.... I need to know" she had practically shrieked. "No you don't need to know anything.... specially not anything related to me" he had sit on the bed now tugging at his socks he pushed his feet in the polished shoes. Prachi could not believe he was being so hot headed and temperamental, just because she had asked him to give his father a second chance... was it that hard and now he was headed towards an unknown destination without giving a second thought to her sinking heart. She could feel hot tears drip from her eyes which she had rubbed away mercilessly he on the contrary was in no mood for further answers and picking up his coat had left the room.
The evening had passed quietly Prachi had asked Kaka to help her with the pakoras feeling sick in the stomach her heart kept pounding against her ribcage making her wonder if she would infact suffer from a seizure any instant. Miraculously nothing of the sort happened she had fought hard with herself to keep her face devoid of any sentiment though she had wanted to cry her guts out. Had Milind gone to meet any of his exes, was any of his female friends in trouble, what lengths would he go to save her. Would he return that night at all keeping his fickle ways in view she doubted his return but had the faintest gleam of hope shimmering in the deep recesses of her heart that he would indeed remember that she would await him. The fact that he would be with another woman wouldn't let her sit still a moment what if he fell prey to her charms would he be disloyal. He had till now after that incident with Kamya refrained from entertaining any other woman, could it be his physical needs would make him succumb to the greater evil. She had remained distracted all evening and had refused to eat which had made Kaka believe she was coming down with the fever. "Asking her to call it an early night he had made her retire to her room, Sukriti had finished painting her pot and after eating dinner had hit the bed today had been an eventful day and tomorrow she desired to feel fresh for her interview at school. Prachi had carried Mishraji's dinner to his room where he had dined in her company she smiled perfunctorily filling him in with the details of their small picnic that afternoon. He in turn had narrated to her all that he had witnessed in Sukriti's room that evening Prachi had been elated with the news.
Yet her happiness was deeply marred when she recalled her tiff with him over her father in law. How she wished Milind would find it in him to condone his father and let the old man be a part of his life, he poor soul had suffered enough at the hands of fate and his wife and Milind was being rather insolent in holding grudges in her opinion. Collecting the china ware she had silently exited the room and after handing over the left overs to Kaka for stowing away for the charwoman the next morning she had taken to her bedroom. Once within the safety of solitude she had poured out her grievances through her eyes sobbing incessantly,her pillow sagged under her weight drenched with the clear salt water that flowed freely from her eyes. The clock had spun its hands unceasingly ticking away the minutes, it was late almost ten and she found it impossible to stay put in her bedroom. Changing her attire she adorned her satin night gown and tying the waist strings had padded softly downstairs to the deserted hallway where a small shrine was erected at the far corner. She had suddenly felt the need to talk, rid herself of the choking agony that threatened to swallow her whole walking up to the shrine she had sit down near the foot of the plain boarded pedestal that upheld the idol. Clasping her hands infront of the gilded monument she had gazed at it in a desperate search for peace "Help him God help him... I can't afford to lose him he's all I have and I love him too much to breathe without him. I cannot share him too make him come back to me.. please" she had begged of the idols smiling down at her as she had lain her head at their feet her eyes shut tight she endeavored to keep her sobs muffled.
She had not known how long she had sat there on the patterned swirling slabs of marble, neither had she kept track of the tears that had left her eyes all she remembered was chanting his name praying to God for his safety and arrival. After what had seemed like an eternity she had heard foot steps enter the threshold yet she had felt too numbed to explore their origin. The foot steps had been hasty and had appeared to pass her by but on an impulse or on sudden revelation they had retreated right beside her. A gentle hand had pulled her back and after inspecting her tear faced profile had gathered her in strong arms. Prachi had felt light as a feather as she moved between spaces crossing the hall rising to the familial confines of her bedroom. She still had her eyes closed as she was lowered on an inviting bed the sheets pulled over her. In a short span of a few moments she had heard rigorous activity taking place near her the opening and shutting of doors and then all had gone dark. She had recognized a well toned strong body slip in beside her under the covers, the protective encasement of two robust arms as they pulled her to him and she had opened her eyes to watch his face. Words failed her as she had been reminded of the insults hurled at her just hours before yet all had been forgotten when he had placed a passionate yet possessive kiss on her lips sealing any effort on her part for an explanation. "Sleep" he had ordered "We'll talk in the morning" and she had closed her tired eyes settling herself against his chest that fell in rose in cadence. "Milind" she had murmured in an attempt to pacify herself with the fact that it was all true "Good night Prachi" he had finished the sentence for her. gently massaging her shoulders and she had felt herself drifting in a deep, carefree slumber.
Milind had stepped inside the carpeted vicinity to find her still asleep her hand folded beneath her face as she dreamt some elaborate vision her lips turned at the corners ever so slightly indicating the formation of an ignorant smile. His countenance had softened at the very sight of her curled up that way so childlike in constitution. Treading the woollen covering underfoot he had placed himself beside her caressing her smooth cheek with the back of his hand. He wondered whether he should divulge the details of her existence to her, it pained him to be enlightened on the fact that she was an orphan and had been jilted at the alter. Why was life so difficult for some unfortunate souls he had pondered unhappily. Deciding on revealing the stark reality of her life to her at a later date he had thought it best to keep the truth under the wraps for the moment. She had just started being happy and he couldn't snatch it all away he could feign nescience on the matter and wasn't in a hurry to own her physically. She was his he knew and there were affairs to settle before he gave in to his hunger for her. He had placed tender kisses on her cheek and forehead causing her to stir and finally awaken. "Milind" she had squinted in the lamp light beside her "Darling do you want to sleep the entire evening?" he had questioned huskily. "No" she had replied smiling "why didn't you wake me up earlier" she had complained sitting up in bed. "I thought you'd be tired" he had explained and she had leaned in to brush her lips against his. "I was" she had assented "You can go check on Sukriti I'll just take a quick shower" she had gotten out of bed. "You want me to join you?" he had asked naughtily and in return had heard the bathroom door being shut and locked. "Just my luck" he had laughed thrusting his feet in his sandals exiting the room. He had strolled to Sukriti's room then the first time he had actually gone there to have a conversation with her, he found her busy with her paints sketching a pot on the canvas. "Is that all they teach you at that blasted academy to paint pots" he had eyed the painting warily standing beside her and she had grinned. "It's still life bhaiyya... I could paint you if you volunteer to sit put for two hours straight" she had looked up at him briefly, liking the feel of his presence in her room. He made it come alive and made her feel wanted, loved and cherished "Yeah well you'd have to kill me for that... I never was into modelling" he had replied seriously his eyes dancing.
Walking towards the bookshelf he had wiped off the thin film of grime that had settled over it sifting through her old school text books which in most probability had been forgotten. "Suki I want you to put a pause to this passion of yours" he had looked at her determinedly, hands folded on chest eyes fixated on her and she understood he wanted to have a word with her on some serious issue. "But why bhaiyya?" she had questioned perplexed. "I want you to join school Suki, graduate and go to college" he had chalked out a course infront of her not giving her a choice for denial. "No I don't want to" she had hung her head in an attempt to hide her tears "Why because school reminds you of Saket and all that you lost?" he had inquired and she had nodded her head ever so slowly. Drawing a deep breath Milind had walked up to her taking the palette and brush from her hands he had placed them on the protruding back of the easel and had led her to the open windows. "Suki look outside" he had told her and she had complied "What do you see?" he had questioned next. " Our garden..... your car..... driveway" she had numbered the visible objects on her fingers "And what do you feel?" he had further befuddled her. "The wind" she had gazed at him innocently. "Can you paint the wind Suki?" he had asked and she had nodded I can paint a hurricane" she had informed him proudly. "No Suki can you paint what you feel.... the wind touching you, blowing through your hair, the happiness that springs in your heart when you swing in the garden" and Sukriti had grasped a part of what he had to say. "No bhaiyya because I cannot paint emotions" she had supplied him the answer and he had hugged her in cognizance. "Yes sweetheart you cannot paint what you feel what you go through each day but I want you to be able to live with it not run away from it. The world is a canvas your life is blank paper paint them Suki with colours of your choice." "Bhaiyya I can't" Sukriti was crying now he understood he had nicked her wounds but he had no other choice he could not let her ruin her life over one catastrophic incident and education in his belief was the key to her freedom. "I will help you Sukriti, I promise. Where ever you feel weak I will hold you if you falter I will steady you but you have to do it you owe it to yourself. This is your life and I want you to mould it, live it, love it" by now his eyes had started glazing too. He could feel her anguish, she was a part of him, his sister, his blood how could he not understand her pain or the hurt she had gone through.
"Bhaiyya what will people say about me, how will I face them?" she had questioned him and he had lifted her face to him. "You worry too much sis people have problems of their own and no one will be bothered about your past in a new school. Mishaps happen but people live despite the falls getting up stronger than before. I want you to be strong and give a damn to the world. Face the world with conviction with the knowledge that it lies at your feet" he had expatiated in low soothing tones. "Will you let me study art after I finish college?" she was still dubious "I'll let you study anything if you promise not to ask me to model for you" he had smiled and Sukriti had laughed aloud. "So you'll accompany me to Saint Xavier's tomorrow.... the principal there is a friend and I'm sure you could join almost immediately" he had acquired her consent "Yes bhaiyya I will" she had agreed to his suggestion. Standing outside the room Mishraji had been overwhelmed with happiness to see Milind bring his daughter back to life, he himself had lost all hope of ever doing so. He knew Prachi was the one who had awoken sentiments within Milind made him realize that he had a family who needed him and had pulled both his children out of their private hells. Wiping away the sudden tears that had fallen down his cheeks he had made his way to his room again even if he had not received forgiveness he was satisfied with the thought that his cildren had forgiven each other.
Leaving Sukriti to finish painting the earthenware Milind had sprinted down the stairs to see Prachi behind the kitchen counter spooning gram flour in a bowl. She looked delicate and beautiful in the pink saree she wore with her partially wet hair brushed back from her face, her lip pressed between her teeth in concentration. "Don't you ever tire of cooking?" he had appeared behind her placing his hands around her waist resting them on her stomach. "I like to keep my beast well fed" she had smiled her plush lips tempting Milind as his eyes scanned her angelic features. "Why... afraid that he might just eat you" his eyes had drooped his voice barely a whisper as he planted tender kisses on her exposed neck. "Hmm" Prachi had murmured being pulled in the vortex of love he churned within her. "Should I you then can't wait to taste you" he had enticed her further making her reciprocate his advances with equal intensity when they had heard a rustle behind them and had parted immediately. It turned out to be the wind rustling through the leaves outside the kitchen window Prachi had laughed while Milind had cursed the untimely intrusion of the breeze. "What are you making?" he had asked irritably "Pakoras" Prachi had quipped mixing chilli flakes, baking powder and cumin seeds in the gram flour. "Kaka told me you liked them.... I thought we could use some with tea" she had told him while he carefully outlined her lips with his fingers making goosebumps arise on her skin. "Well it depends on what you'r going to put in them" he had drawled and her eyes had laden with shyness he was in a perfect mood today maybe if she asked she had wondered lifting her gaze to study him intently. "I'll peel the potatoes if you want" he had offered rolling his sleeves up the elbows she had handed him the knife and the plate stacked with potatoes. Milind it seemed had never ventured into the kitchen prior to that instant he struggled with the potatoes holding one awkwardly the kitchen knife poised dangerously in his large arms. "Milind I was wondering ..." she had started hesitantly and he had grunted in response trying to stop the potato from wobbling.
"Wondering what" he had questioned eyes focused on the potato it was so easy to eat them then why wouldn't it stay still. "If Papa could accompany us at the table during meal times, he is after all part of the family" the knife had in that instant slipped from Milind's hand slashing through his flesh resulting in a deep cut on the other palm. The potato he had peeled half way was dyed crimson in blood as it gushed from the open gash. "Milind!" Prachi had screamed clasping his hand in her own she quickly led him to the sink placing his hand under the faucet running cold water over it. It seemed the wound was deep as the blood flow did not stall much to Prachi's grievance she was on the verge of crying it felt to her as if the cut had been made on her heart rather than his palm. She and her big mouth she had mentally chided herself. Asking him to stay there she had run to her own room picking up the first aid kit she had rushed down again and had started bandaging his hand. He had stayed dead silent through the entire ordeal watching her with cold eyes she knew his stance on his relationship with his father yet she chose to plead his case, why. He had tried to pull away his hand when she had held on to it firmly "You can punish me but I'm not allowing you to do that to yourself" she had stated in a dewy voice wrapping the bandage over the cut. "You know my answer to your earlier remark and that it will be. After today I want no conversation on this topic" he had made his decision clear to her in a steely tone. "But Milind he needs you" she had tried to elucidate "We needed him yet he was nowhere to be found even if I forgive him for marrying that whore who molested me... I am never, ever going to forgive him for turning a blind eye to Sukriti" he had glowered at her with such contempt it made her feel she was the culprit herself. "But it wasn't his fault" she had protested weakly "Oh really it wasn't was it" he had mocked her. "If I f***k you right now and in time you bear a b*****d that won't bloody be my f*****g fault now would it!" he had snarled wrenching his hand from her hold. His face look stoned his breathing ragged it had taken all of his patience to even broach the subject he hated his father he was the cause of all his troubles if he hadn't lain that Ratti she wouldn't have tricked him into marrying her. "A parent is responsible for the child it brings in this world and he never gave a damn to either of us..... if we were such a burden he bloody well shouldn't have let us be born in the first place". Prachi could well see the raw fury that pumped through Milind's veins as they protruded from his neck and forehead blood running through them at break neck speed he had clenched his hands in tight fists the wound on his palm being fresh dripped blood on the floor. "Milind" Prachi had sobbed holding on to his arm "Please don't do this don't hurt yourself" she had yet again held his hand in her own trying to make him open his fists. "Why should'nt I" he had retorted in a thunderous rage "You never thought twice before doing just that" his eyes had flashed it almost seemed as if they had flames kindled within them.
Shrugging her off he had stomped to his room to find the phone ring incessantly. Abandoning all thoughts of preparing any cuisine Prachi had taken after his hasty form she simply had to appease him even if it meant humiliation and sarcasm she was prepared to bear his wrath. Stepping inside the illuminated room she found him deep in conversation on the phone moving closer she could hear bits and pieces of the conversation. "Damn you scumbag you do anything to her and I swear to God I'll kill you" he had bellowed with all his might in the mouth piece making Prachi shiver in her flip flops. Who was he talking to, who was being discussed and why was he so angry at the other person all these were questions that ran rampant through her mind and she had to find answers to them for her peace and his safety. He had slammed the phone shut and had walked to the wardrobe yanking it open he grabbed a cobalt blue suit, proceeding to strip himself then and there pulling on his attire like a mad man. "Milind where are you going?" she had dared to question "None of your god damned business" he had snapped his temper on a short leash. He buttoned his pants and put on his shirt rummaging through his collection of shoes he found a pair that went with the garments. "Milind please tell me where are you going, is everything ok.... I need to know" she had practically shrieked. "No you don't need to know anything.... specially not anything related to me" he had sit on the bed now tugging at his socks he pushed his feet in the polished shoes. Prachi could not believe he was being so hot headed and temperamental, just because she had asked him to give his father a second chance... was it that hard and now he was headed towards an unknown destination without giving a second thought to her sinking heart. She could feel hot tears drip from her eyes which she had rubbed away mercilessly he on the contrary was in no mood for further answers and picking up his coat had left the room.
The evening had passed quietly Prachi had asked Kaka to help her with the pakoras feeling sick in the stomach her heart kept pounding against her ribcage making her wonder if she would infact suffer from a seizure any instant. Miraculously nothing of the sort happened she had fought hard with herself to keep her face devoid of any sentiment though she had wanted to cry her guts out. Had Milind gone to meet any of his exes, was any of his female friends in trouble, what lengths would he go to save her. Would he return that night at all keeping his fickle ways in view she doubted his return but had the faintest gleam of hope shimmering in the deep recesses of her heart that he would indeed remember that she would await him. The fact that he would be with another woman wouldn't let her sit still a moment what if he fell prey to her charms would he be disloyal. He had till now after that incident with Kamya refrained from entertaining any other woman, could it be his physical needs would make him succumb to the greater evil. She had remained distracted all evening and had refused to eat which had made Kaka believe she was coming down with the fever. "Asking her to call it an early night he had made her retire to her room, Sukriti had finished painting her pot and after eating dinner had hit the bed today had been an eventful day and tomorrow she desired to feel fresh for her interview at school. Prachi had carried Mishraji's dinner to his room where he had dined in her company she smiled perfunctorily filling him in with the details of their small picnic that afternoon. He in turn had narrated to her all that he had witnessed in Sukriti's room that evening Prachi had been elated with the news.
Yet her happiness was deeply marred when she recalled her tiff with him over her father in law. How she wished Milind would find it in him to condone his father and let the old man be a part of his life, he poor soul had suffered enough at the hands of fate and his wife and Milind was being rather insolent in holding grudges in her opinion. Collecting the china ware she had silently exited the room and after handing over the left overs to Kaka for stowing away for the charwoman the next morning she had taken to her bedroom. Once within the safety of solitude she had poured out her grievances through her eyes sobbing incessantly,her pillow sagged under her weight drenched with the clear salt water that flowed freely from her eyes. The clock had spun its hands unceasingly ticking away the minutes, it was late almost ten and she found it impossible to stay put in her bedroom. Changing her attire she adorned her satin night gown and tying the waist strings had padded softly downstairs to the deserted hallway where a small shrine was erected at the far corner. She had suddenly felt the need to talk, rid herself of the choking agony that threatened to swallow her whole walking up to the shrine she had sit down near the foot of the plain boarded pedestal that upheld the idol. Clasping her hands infront of the gilded monument she had gazed at it in a desperate search for peace "Help him God help him... I can't afford to lose him he's all I have and I love him too much to breathe without him. I cannot share him too make him come back to me.. please" she had begged of the idols smiling down at her as she had lain her head at their feet her eyes shut tight she endeavored to keep her sobs muffled.
She had not known how long she had sat there on the patterned swirling slabs of marble, neither had she kept track of the tears that had left her eyes all she remembered was chanting his name praying to God for his safety and arrival. After what had seemed like an eternity she had heard foot steps enter the threshold yet she had felt too numbed to explore their origin. The foot steps had been hasty and had appeared to pass her by but on an impulse or on sudden revelation they had retreated right beside her. A gentle hand had pulled her back and after inspecting her tear faced profile had gathered her in strong arms. Prachi had felt light as a feather as she moved between spaces crossing the hall rising to the familial confines of her bedroom. She still had her eyes closed as she was lowered on an inviting bed the sheets pulled over her. In a short span of a few moments she had heard rigorous activity taking place near her the opening and shutting of doors and then all had gone dark. She had recognized a well toned strong body slip in beside her under the covers, the protective encasement of two robust arms as they pulled her to him and she had opened her eyes to watch his face. Words failed her as she had been reminded of the insults hurled at her just hours before yet all had been forgotten when he had placed a passionate yet possessive kiss on her lips sealing any effort on her part for an explanation. "Sleep" he had ordered "We'll talk in the morning" and she had closed her tired eyes settling herself against his chest that fell in rose in cadence. "Milind" she had murmured in an attempt to pacify herself with the fact that it was all true "Good night Prachi" he had finished the sentence for her. gently massaging her shoulders and she had felt herself drifting in a deep, carefree slumber.
Part 15
Prachi had awoken sometime in the night to the lulled hum of gentle breathing beside her, she could feel the solid wall of chest her palm rested on the heart caged within pumping in a soothing rhythm. She felt warm, protected and had made out the heavy hand that had her enclosed to it she tried to open her swollen eyes which had felt heavy as lead due to the excessive strain she had subjected them to crying for a straight two hours. Staring through the penetrable black that was etched over the room she strained her eyes to make out the shapes of objects. Once her eyes got accustomed to the gloom she traced out the dominating form of Milind outlined beside her even in sleep he held the power to control her make her do exactly what he wanted. Memories from the evening flooded her and she had felt a desperate need to pull herself away from him but did not wish to awaken him in the process. Her eyes had started tearing at the recollection of the brusque and brash attitude to which she had been subjected to with no fault of hers. All she had wanted was for him to be able to forgive and forget did he not understand that she knew how much he hurt within, each time she tried to appease him, do away with even a fraction of his pain he would return it back to her ten folds. She felt traumatized by his sharp words that had punctured through her heart and soul alike Milind had shifted slightly then and Prachi had rolled out of his enclosure to the far end of the bed clutching her pillow to her mouth she muffled her sobs. She had thought she was incapable of shedding any more tears now, considered herself an empty vessel retaining no more moisture; sadly she had been mistaken as the salt water drenched the pillow sagging beneath her weight. She had fought hard to restrain herself but had failed miserably it seemed her body was not under her control that night as it heaved and fell forcefully. She had been appalled to hear him discuss some other woman, it appeared as if all her love and care meant nothing to him when he still retained relations with women other than her ownself.
The fact that he could infact have been with one of his female friends before coming home had her crying all the more harder. All sorts of visions poisoned her mind she could just not conjure up his image with any woman other than herself. She was as she admitted hopelessly in love with him and found it cruel that he had neither apologized nor found it important to expand on his whereabouts. A gasp had escaped her sealed lips as she buried her face within the silken folds of the cover and that was when a shadow had hovered over her a brawny arm passed over her to switch the lamp on the bedside table illuminating the room with candescence. She had shut her eyes tight as she she felt him study her trembling form awhile before grasping her arms and gently turning her to him. Her eyes had flashed open and she had struggled to be freed from the feather grip that held her captive. "Enough" his voice had boomed near her making her heart miss a beat and she had stopped almost immediately though what had not ceased was the continual flow of tears from her hazel pools. She had blinked to clear her vision and had found herself inches away from his masculine form his face dark with passion and ire, lips pressed close. "Why?" he had questioned his voice husky making her go weak "because you went away" had come the soft answer and his eyebrows had raised in question then. "Is that all?" and she had averted her gaze fiercely biting her lower lip. "Don't!" he had derided her placing his index finger on her velvety smoothness releasing it of it's precarious hold. He had neared her when she had turned her face away in retaliation she certainly was not over with her anger towards him and it reflected in the way she had shunned him. But that obviously had not gone well with him cupping her face he had turned it back to him before pushing his mouth to her covering it in a strong defining kiss. She had tried to evade the sentiments it invoked within her, passion, love, yearning and a strong sense of pleasure the amalgamation of which could prove deadly for her. After the initial resistance she had given in her hands had locked around his neck her fingers running through his hair she had moaned slightly as his mouthed delved in deeper. They had switched positions then as he placed her atop him pausing to gasp for breath. She appeared dazed unaware of her vulnerability which he had shrewdly discovered pulling her back to him for another intense union of the mouths and this time she had reciprocated equally. She had not found it necessary to unwind her arms from around him pulling him to her and he had understood her need for him. It was almost as if he had read her mind the fact that she had wished to be loved caressed and desired by him fulfilling her craving to the max.
At long last when they had broken apart Prachi had melted as molten wax panting hotly and crying at her failure to confront him on any serious issue. He had filled her in his arms kissing her temple with love "Now you tell me what was that about" he had whispered clasping his hands around her waist he sat against the headrest with her cradled in his arms. "Where did you go?" she had questioned him dreading the answer what if it was what she had thought. "Where did you think I had gone?" he had countered his liquid eyes resting on her wet face. "I ... thought....you" she couldn't complete the sentence which now appeared as an accusation their kiss had infact explained to her his hunger for intimacy and the control he had displayed to tame it had not escaped her. "You thought I was out there laying some other woman" he had finished dryly for her "Yes" she had consented there was no point in lying. "You innocent fool" he had chided her in mocking tones. "Why would I go bed another when I have promised a union with you, true we are not together yet but we will soon and I'm over with my philandering" he had explained as she rubbed his cheek gently feeling his stubble prick her flesh. "You won't leave me will you?" she had asked him with such hope he was touched. "Never" he had promised and she had flung her arms around his neck laying her head on his shoulder "I love you" she had whispered amidst sobs. In answer to her confession he had soothed her laying her down beside him he had kissed her swollen eye lids cheeks and chin before claiming her mouth for his own once again. The passion had ridden high and Milind had managed to make her realize she was as important to him as he was to her. He had held her close to him placing a dominant arm over her as she fit in his encaved body letting him drift off to sleep in serenity while she lay awake savouring his touch and basking in the knowledge of him belonging to her alone.
The morning was a frenzied one Sukriti has asked Prachi to accompany her to the school with Milind the previous evening and Prachi had obliged. If Sukriti needed her she would be there for her. After serving them breakfast Prachi had walked Milind to the door where he had leaned in and placed a soft kiss on her pink lips making her smile in happiness. Her dimples deepening causing Milind to avert his gaze from her tempting vision. "Get her ready by eleven we have to be there by eleven thirty" he had reminded her before sitting in his awaiting transportation and jetting off. After helping Kaka prepare the luncheon Prachi had trudged upstairs to Sukriti's room only to find her standing in the midst of a knee deep pool of fabric. "Sukriti we have to get there by eleven you know how punctual Milind is" Prachi had gazed at her blatantly. "Bhabhi I can't seem to find anything befitting to wear" Sukriti had exclaimed throwing her hands up in exasperation she had turned to look at Prachi making her smile. The brother and sister shared such common dilemmas and were capable of flaring up at almost everything she had mused fondly recollecting the passionate moments spent in the middle of the night with her brother. She had sifted through the pile around her feet picking up a floral printed chiffon skirt. "How about this" she had inquired choosing a snug fitting black top to complement it. "I'll try it" Sukriti had answered taking the proferred clothes from her and disappearing in the changing room. Prachi had sighed bending down to fill her arms with the clothes strewn around Sukriti probably had wanted to look her best Prachi knew more than herself she had desired to do this for Milind. The trust he had vested in her seemed to be paying off she actually wanted this to work out. Placing the garments on her bed Prachi had made a mental note to get Kaka to ask one of the servants to stack them in the wardrobe again. Moments later Sukriti had emerged looking absolutely flustered "Bhabhi you think this is going to make a good impression?" she had inquired worriedly and Prachi had taken her by her hand making her stand in front of the full length mirror near the dresser. "See for yourself" she had murmured letting Sukriti study her reflection sadly all she could see was an empty eyed defeated creature and all of a sudden she was swept with fear, what if she failed her family yet again. The thought itself was too horrific for her and she had burst out crying, causing Prachi to hug her in comfort.
"Sukriti I know its hard but you know all you have to do is be yourself and its just a meeting nothing much" she had patted the young girl's back soothing her. Fifteen minutes later a confident and much relaxed Sukriti with a file tucked under her arm had been escorted by Prachi to the awaiting car which had taken them to Milind's office. On reaching there Sukriti had called him up informing him of their arrival and within moments they had heard the car door open as he slided in the back seat of the Audi. Throwing Prachi a drunken look he had effortlessly managed to make her aware of his over powering presence as his hand found hers while she sat beside him. She had closed her fingers around his large palm in elation Sukriti had jumped out of the front seat and had joined them at the back. Milind had smiled as she shut the door his other arm had gone around Sukriti in a protective embrace as he kissed her forehead "How's my kiddo doing?" he had inquired and she had confirmed of herself being in the best of spirits. "All set?" he had questioned hoping to keep the conversation flowing and she had leaned against his wide expanse of a chest in response. She had opened her file then displaying the numerous certificates and testimonials she had received for her extra curricular activities in her previous school making Milind's heart swell with pride. She was a shiny pin who had rusted due to negligence but now he was going to polish her till she shone like new. Prachi had watched silently as the siblings interacted all this while though Milind's hand had not left hers and she had rested her head against him closing her eyes breathing in his unique fragrance wondering how he could distribute love and attention so equally. Her answer had been provided when he had slightly shifted his head to watch her and smile bringing her hand to his lips he had planted a tender kiss on it and all of it had been done within the blink of an eye. Between snatches of conversation laughter and appraisals they had reached Saint Xavier's the car had rolled in on the smooth pebbled driveway and had come to a halt in front of the sand stone structure that towered high making Sukriti feel in awe of it. Her muscles had stiffened in that instant but Milind had gently squeezed her hand helping her alight the vehicle. Keeping both the girls near him he had passed through airy passages led on by the peon to the awaiting principal's spacious office. Stepping inside Milind had shaken hands with the elderly man and they had taken their seats. Milind had prior to the meeting enlightened the principal on Sukriti's past restricting to the facts that she had suffered from a broken marriage and was indeed coming to terms with her loss.
"So you are the candidate then?" the principal had gestured towards Prachi while Sukriti looked on confused. "No Sir, you are mistaken I am the candidate" she had corrected him politely while Prachi and Milind had looked on amused. The principal was a seasoned man who had dealt many such cases in his years of service. He had smiled kindly at the fifteen year old while she peered at him with curious eyes. "Well then young lady tell me about yourself" he had made her talk, initially Sukriti was hesitant but a nod from Milind and a smile from Prachi encouraged her. She conversed about her love for art and her desire to make her family proud not missing out on Sameera expressing her wish to one day be able to acquire sole custody of her. "Rather remarkable ambitions Sukriti, you think you will be able to achieve them?" the principal had questioned with a twinkle in his eyes. "I know I will achieve them' my bhaiyya has promised to help me always" she had mouthed with such profound conviction for a moment Milind had been stoned. His sister trusted him with her well being he had felt like he was on top of the world his smile had deepened as his eyes met hers.The principal had assured of Sukriti's admission but to gauge her academic qualification she had to give a test which she had agreed upon immediately. It took a good hour for Sukriti to be over with it and by the time she had finished Milind and Prachi had both been convinced by the principal that the institution was the best learning ground for Sukriti. Prachi had thanked the kind principal for accepting Sukriti in the middle of the term to which he had expanded on the fact that the child Sukriti was replacing had left for the States recently. "It was destined Mrs Mishra" he had smiled and Prachi had thanked God for being merciful and magnanimous.
"You will be informed of the results by tomorrow Mr Mishra but I assure you that you are indeed taking home a Xavierite" the principal had exclaimed causing Sukriti to squeal in happiness. They had strolled down the corridors at leisure taking in the various framed photographs of tournaments won, the champions smiling with their cups and trophies. At the end of the passageway was a glass cabinet that housed the numerous trophies, shields and cups categorized by their activities and winners. There were some for the school's cricket team, others for literacy competitions and a few for excellence in artistic creativity. Sukriti was spellbound and had hoped aloud to see her name beside such a laurel soon. In the short span of walking from the principal's office to their car both Prachi and Milind had come to have a fair idea on how much Sukriti had actually missed her school. She had kept mum on the issue trying to put that life behind her because in her view she was not worthy of it but now she was open to the idea of moving forward with a new zeal. Milind had taken them to the garment store suggested by the principal and bought Sukriti her uniform the books she would have to purchase from the school canteen herself. "Come Prachi let's buy you some clothes" Milind had stated steering them towards an expansive and rather elite boutique. "Don't you think it's expensive?" Prachi had voiced her thoughts which Milind had immediately comprehended Patel had informed him of her hailing from a middle class family. Her parents being killed in a car accident she had been thrown at the mercy of her uncle and aunt who already had four daughters of their own. He could well imagine the life she had been used to stifling her thoughts wishes happiness even as she was not one of their own. Patel had also informed him of her marriage being one of force her aunt and uncle probably wanted to get her off their hands as quickly as possible the reason they had assented to getting her married to a shop owner who resided at the corner of their street. She had not wished to marry him but still had complied because she was made aware of the stark reality that the future of her four young cousins rested upon her marriage.
"I will be paying' so don't worry" he had pressed her to him stepping in an alcove partially hidden by stacks of shoe boxes and racks of hangered clothing. She had gazed at him in gratitude "But you work hard to earn it" she had in a way applauded him for his ceaseless toil at the work front. "What use is all that wealth if not utilized for showering you with all the bounties of the world" he had watched her deeply as her eyes had lifted to his the thin film of shimmer quite visible in them. "Would you do that for me?" she had whispered "That and a lot more" he had promised her tilting her face up to him placing his lips on hers in a searing kiss. She had gasped then coming to terms with the fact that the man she stood holding on to was indeed her destiny, the only question was she in all reality truly worthy of him. The risk of exposure had caused him to withdraw almost immediately but the message had been sent across wide and clear she watched him with a feeling of staggering conscious her heart burning as if being grilled. He was perfect she had thought as his eyes traced her features sweeping over her slightly reddening lips the flushed cheeks and finally those mesmerizing eyes that had bewitched him. He did not recall any woman whose eyes could be so clearly resonant of her thoughts and feelings. Right now she seemed perturbed because of the monetary loss his mind had suggested and he had stepped out of the shadows making her follow him. They had come to a standstill before a large contrivance sarees hanging in a slope on it. "Choose" he had uttered while she guiltily fingered the garments, in all practicality she held no right to strip him off his hard earned cash for her luxuries, her eyes scoured the price tags and her hands had fallen down resting on her sides. "I' uh.. we can look elsewhere" she had managed. He on the contrary was in no mood for trivialities and had taken off a maroon, azure, lemon and peach saree off the rack handing them to the salesgirl standing beside them. Next they had stopped at the shoe corner where an excited Sukriti stood admiring her platforms in the mirror. "Aren't they cute bhabhi?" she had inquired placing her hands on her hips she inspected them with a gleam in her eye. The salesgirl had seated Prachi and had proceeded to fit her with various designs each time she slipped a certain shoe on Prachi's feet she would gaze at Milind for an approval. He had hardly uttered a word but a slight glint in his eyes confirmed the product as fit for her in the end Prachi chose three pairs tan pumps, black heels and silver beaded sandal. She seemed happy and that was all that Milind had desired paying for the purchases he had escorted them to the car. "Bhaiyya I'm hungry can we go eat at Marriot" Sukriti had whined clutching her stomach and the Marriot it had been.
Prachi had been awe struck by the attention showered on them as a concierge led them to a specific table in the posh restaurant seating them in plush velvet chairs. The manager had been informed and he had immediately appeared to exchange pleasantries with Milind while Milind had conversed sparsely the waiter had handed them the menus meanwhile. "Sir will it be the usual?" the manager had questioned with a cheesy smile and Milind had nodded in assent. "What is the usual?" Prachi had inquired and Sukriti had smiled "I'm sure it will be something classic" Milind though had remained silent his hands groping for his mobile in the coat pocket. It appeared the message he had received was of grave context as he had after reading it had frowned unpleasantly and stood up abruptly "I need to get back to work you two carry on and return home." Prachi had wished to stall him ask him to have his food before rushing off to work but had not found it in her to do so. What she did though was notice that he had indeed forgotten his wallet she spotted it hidden underneath the napkin. Picking it up she had informed Sukriti and had rushed after him quite oblivious of the stares she received in doing so, hoping to catch him on his way to the hotel's lobby. Little had she known that destiny infact had a rude shock awaiting for her she had reached the lobby jerking her head trying to single him amidst the crowd and had at last spotted his tall and robust form besides the elevator, her mind did a double take in that instant. Didn't he say he was headed to the office her heart pumped wildly why was he using the elevators and to go where. As far as she knew above the lobby started the long chain of private rooms and suites he must have a meeting she had tried to reason. She might have managed to pull herself together had she not discovered exactly whom Milnd's large profile hid afore him, it was almost a mirage and she had blinked to clear her vision. A rather petite young brunette in a pale green sundress stood with her arm threaded through his. She stared as Milind bent down to hear what she had to say she pressed her ruby lips against the shell of his ear and murmured something inaudible to which he had nodded returning the gesture. Before her very eyes she saw Milind check their whereabouts in a swift glance before stepping in the open doors of the elevator. He seemed to be in a hurry and from Prachi's vantage point she could see the numbers switch on the screen near the elevator it had halted at the fifth floor. She stood numbed unable to fathom the grim truth which stood unveiled. Hadn't he promised her she was everything that mattered to him there was no other woman besides her then what exactly was he doing with her and who was she. She stood rooted to the spot when the manager had spotted her standing in the middle of the lobby wearing a pained expression on her face. "Mrs Mishra are you alright?" he had queried worried to see her pale countenance, she was after all the wife of one of the most powerful and aristocratic businessmen of the country. "What do you have on the fifth floor of the hotel?" she had asked in a plain voice, one that had the manager thinking she was actually thinking of booking one. "The private suites madame" he had answered promptly believing that she was not feeling well he made her sit on one of the comfortable sofas nearby. "Have a seat please I will inform your family about you'r ill health" he had said but she was not listening rather it was the own thunderous beating of her revolting heart that she could hear with perfect clarity. Her heart had lurched at the sight of his intertwined arm in the brunette's was she an associate, if so why would he escort her to a private suite in the middle of the afternoon .It all simmered down to one conclusion he just couldn't leash the beast within him the pleasures of the flesh pertained far more than the untainted love she held for him. Sukriti had arrived in a matter of seconds by her side "Bhabhi are you ok?" she had asked shocked to see her listless and white faced form sitting bolt upright with a blank expression. "I'm fine" she had heard herself talking congratulating herself for actually finding her voice in the nick of time. "Sukriti I need to go home, do you wish to come?" another classic performance yes she could just about manage it. "Yes bhabhi we'll leave" she had consented considering it best for them to take return. Apologizing to the manager they both had left immediately it had seemed to Prachi that the mirage she had been following had disappeared and she was surrounded by the barren dessert yawning at her in lazy pleasure devouring her till she had felt herself sink in the very depths of the crust itself.
Prachi had awoken sometime in the night to the lulled hum of gentle breathing beside her, she could feel the solid wall of chest her palm rested on the heart caged within pumping in a soothing rhythm. She felt warm, protected and had made out the heavy hand that had her enclosed to it she tried to open her swollen eyes which had felt heavy as lead due to the excessive strain she had subjected them to crying for a straight two hours. Staring through the penetrable black that was etched over the room she strained her eyes to make out the shapes of objects. Once her eyes got accustomed to the gloom she traced out the dominating form of Milind outlined beside her even in sleep he held the power to control her make her do exactly what he wanted. Memories from the evening flooded her and she had felt a desperate need to pull herself away from him but did not wish to awaken him in the process. Her eyes had started tearing at the recollection of the brusque and brash attitude to which she had been subjected to with no fault of hers. All she had wanted was for him to be able to forgive and forget did he not understand that she knew how much he hurt within, each time she tried to appease him, do away with even a fraction of his pain he would return it back to her ten folds. She felt traumatized by his sharp words that had punctured through her heart and soul alike Milind had shifted slightly then and Prachi had rolled out of his enclosure to the far end of the bed clutching her pillow to her mouth she muffled her sobs. She had thought she was incapable of shedding any more tears now, considered herself an empty vessel retaining no more moisture; sadly she had been mistaken as the salt water drenched the pillow sagging beneath her weight. She had fought hard to restrain herself but had failed miserably it seemed her body was not under her control that night as it heaved and fell forcefully. She had been appalled to hear him discuss some other woman, it appeared as if all her love and care meant nothing to him when he still retained relations with women other than her ownself.
The fact that he could infact have been with one of his female friends before coming home had her crying all the more harder. All sorts of visions poisoned her mind she could just not conjure up his image with any woman other than herself. She was as she admitted hopelessly in love with him and found it cruel that he had neither apologized nor found it important to expand on his whereabouts. A gasp had escaped her sealed lips as she buried her face within the silken folds of the cover and that was when a shadow had hovered over her a brawny arm passed over her to switch the lamp on the bedside table illuminating the room with candescence. She had shut her eyes tight as she she felt him study her trembling form awhile before grasping her arms and gently turning her to him. Her eyes had flashed open and she had struggled to be freed from the feather grip that held her captive. "Enough" his voice had boomed near her making her heart miss a beat and she had stopped almost immediately though what had not ceased was the continual flow of tears from her hazel pools. She had blinked to clear her vision and had found herself inches away from his masculine form his face dark with passion and ire, lips pressed close. "Why?" he had questioned his voice husky making her go weak "because you went away" had come the soft answer and his eyebrows had raised in question then. "Is that all?" and she had averted her gaze fiercely biting her lower lip. "Don't!" he had derided her placing his index finger on her velvety smoothness releasing it of it's precarious hold. He had neared her when she had turned her face away in retaliation she certainly was not over with her anger towards him and it reflected in the way she had shunned him. But that obviously had not gone well with him cupping her face he had turned it back to him before pushing his mouth to her covering it in a strong defining kiss. She had tried to evade the sentiments it invoked within her, passion, love, yearning and a strong sense of pleasure the amalgamation of which could prove deadly for her. After the initial resistance she had given in her hands had locked around his neck her fingers running through his hair she had moaned slightly as his mouthed delved in deeper. They had switched positions then as he placed her atop him pausing to gasp for breath. She appeared dazed unaware of her vulnerability which he had shrewdly discovered pulling her back to him for another intense union of the mouths and this time she had reciprocated equally. She had not found it necessary to unwind her arms from around him pulling him to her and he had understood her need for him. It was almost as if he had read her mind the fact that she had wished to be loved caressed and desired by him fulfilling her craving to the max.
At long last when they had broken apart Prachi had melted as molten wax panting hotly and crying at her failure to confront him on any serious issue. He had filled her in his arms kissing her temple with love "Now you tell me what was that about" he had whispered clasping his hands around her waist he sat against the headrest with her cradled in his arms. "Where did you go?" she had questioned him dreading the answer what if it was what she had thought. "Where did you think I had gone?" he had countered his liquid eyes resting on her wet face. "I ... thought....you" she couldn't complete the sentence which now appeared as an accusation their kiss had infact explained to her his hunger for intimacy and the control he had displayed to tame it had not escaped her. "You thought I was out there laying some other woman" he had finished dryly for her "Yes" she had consented there was no point in lying. "You innocent fool" he had chided her in mocking tones. "Why would I go bed another when I have promised a union with you, true we are not together yet but we will soon and I'm over with my philandering" he had explained as she rubbed his cheek gently feeling his stubble prick her flesh. "You won't leave me will you?" she had asked him with such hope he was touched. "Never" he had promised and she had flung her arms around his neck laying her head on his shoulder "I love you" she had whispered amidst sobs. In answer to her confession he had soothed her laying her down beside him he had kissed her swollen eye lids cheeks and chin before claiming her mouth for his own once again. The passion had ridden high and Milind had managed to make her realize she was as important to him as he was to her. He had held her close to him placing a dominant arm over her as she fit in his encaved body letting him drift off to sleep in serenity while she lay awake savouring his touch and basking in the knowledge of him belonging to her alone.
The morning was a frenzied one Sukriti has asked Prachi to accompany her to the school with Milind the previous evening and Prachi had obliged. If Sukriti needed her she would be there for her. After serving them breakfast Prachi had walked Milind to the door where he had leaned in and placed a soft kiss on her pink lips making her smile in happiness. Her dimples deepening causing Milind to avert his gaze from her tempting vision. "Get her ready by eleven we have to be there by eleven thirty" he had reminded her before sitting in his awaiting transportation and jetting off. After helping Kaka prepare the luncheon Prachi had trudged upstairs to Sukriti's room only to find her standing in the midst of a knee deep pool of fabric. "Sukriti we have to get there by eleven you know how punctual Milind is" Prachi had gazed at her blatantly. "Bhabhi I can't seem to find anything befitting to wear" Sukriti had exclaimed throwing her hands up in exasperation she had turned to look at Prachi making her smile. The brother and sister shared such common dilemmas and were capable of flaring up at almost everything she had mused fondly recollecting the passionate moments spent in the middle of the night with her brother. She had sifted through the pile around her feet picking up a floral printed chiffon skirt. "How about this" she had inquired choosing a snug fitting black top to complement it. "I'll try it" Sukriti had answered taking the proferred clothes from her and disappearing in the changing room. Prachi had sighed bending down to fill her arms with the clothes strewn around Sukriti probably had wanted to look her best Prachi knew more than herself she had desired to do this for Milind. The trust he had vested in her seemed to be paying off she actually wanted this to work out. Placing the garments on her bed Prachi had made a mental note to get Kaka to ask one of the servants to stack them in the wardrobe again. Moments later Sukriti had emerged looking absolutely flustered "Bhabhi you think this is going to make a good impression?" she had inquired worriedly and Prachi had taken her by her hand making her stand in front of the full length mirror near the dresser. "See for yourself" she had murmured letting Sukriti study her reflection sadly all she could see was an empty eyed defeated creature and all of a sudden she was swept with fear, what if she failed her family yet again. The thought itself was too horrific for her and she had burst out crying, causing Prachi to hug her in comfort.
"Sukriti I know its hard but you know all you have to do is be yourself and its just a meeting nothing much" she had patted the young girl's back soothing her. Fifteen minutes later a confident and much relaxed Sukriti with a file tucked under her arm had been escorted by Prachi to the awaiting car which had taken them to Milind's office. On reaching there Sukriti had called him up informing him of their arrival and within moments they had heard the car door open as he slided in the back seat of the Audi. Throwing Prachi a drunken look he had effortlessly managed to make her aware of his over powering presence as his hand found hers while she sat beside him. She had closed her fingers around his large palm in elation Sukriti had jumped out of the front seat and had joined them at the back. Milind had smiled as she shut the door his other arm had gone around Sukriti in a protective embrace as he kissed her forehead "How's my kiddo doing?" he had inquired and she had confirmed of herself being in the best of spirits. "All set?" he had questioned hoping to keep the conversation flowing and she had leaned against his wide expanse of a chest in response. She had opened her file then displaying the numerous certificates and testimonials she had received for her extra curricular activities in her previous school making Milind's heart swell with pride. She was a shiny pin who had rusted due to negligence but now he was going to polish her till she shone like new. Prachi had watched silently as the siblings interacted all this while though Milind's hand had not left hers and she had rested her head against him closing her eyes breathing in his unique fragrance wondering how he could distribute love and attention so equally. Her answer had been provided when he had slightly shifted his head to watch her and smile bringing her hand to his lips he had planted a tender kiss on it and all of it had been done within the blink of an eye. Between snatches of conversation laughter and appraisals they had reached Saint Xavier's the car had rolled in on the smooth pebbled driveway and had come to a halt in front of the sand stone structure that towered high making Sukriti feel in awe of it. Her muscles had stiffened in that instant but Milind had gently squeezed her hand helping her alight the vehicle. Keeping both the girls near him he had passed through airy passages led on by the peon to the awaiting principal's spacious office. Stepping inside Milind had shaken hands with the elderly man and they had taken their seats. Milind had prior to the meeting enlightened the principal on Sukriti's past restricting to the facts that she had suffered from a broken marriage and was indeed coming to terms with her loss.
"So you are the candidate then?" the principal had gestured towards Prachi while Sukriti looked on confused. "No Sir, you are mistaken I am the candidate" she had corrected him politely while Prachi and Milind had looked on amused. The principal was a seasoned man who had dealt many such cases in his years of service. He had smiled kindly at the fifteen year old while she peered at him with curious eyes. "Well then young lady tell me about yourself" he had made her talk, initially Sukriti was hesitant but a nod from Milind and a smile from Prachi encouraged her. She conversed about her love for art and her desire to make her family proud not missing out on Sameera expressing her wish to one day be able to acquire sole custody of her. "Rather remarkable ambitions Sukriti, you think you will be able to achieve them?" the principal had questioned with a twinkle in his eyes. "I know I will achieve them' my bhaiyya has promised to help me always" she had mouthed with such profound conviction for a moment Milind had been stoned. His sister trusted him with her well being he had felt like he was on top of the world his smile had deepened as his eyes met hers.The principal had assured of Sukriti's admission but to gauge her academic qualification she had to give a test which she had agreed upon immediately. It took a good hour for Sukriti to be over with it and by the time she had finished Milind and Prachi had both been convinced by the principal that the institution was the best learning ground for Sukriti. Prachi had thanked the kind principal for accepting Sukriti in the middle of the term to which he had expanded on the fact that the child Sukriti was replacing had left for the States recently. "It was destined Mrs Mishra" he had smiled and Prachi had thanked God for being merciful and magnanimous.
"You will be informed of the results by tomorrow Mr Mishra but I assure you that you are indeed taking home a Xavierite" the principal had exclaimed causing Sukriti to squeal in happiness. They had strolled down the corridors at leisure taking in the various framed photographs of tournaments won, the champions smiling with their cups and trophies. At the end of the passageway was a glass cabinet that housed the numerous trophies, shields and cups categorized by their activities and winners. There were some for the school's cricket team, others for literacy competitions and a few for excellence in artistic creativity. Sukriti was spellbound and had hoped aloud to see her name beside such a laurel soon. In the short span of walking from the principal's office to their car both Prachi and Milind had come to have a fair idea on how much Sukriti had actually missed her school. She had kept mum on the issue trying to put that life behind her because in her view she was not worthy of it but now she was open to the idea of moving forward with a new zeal. Milind had taken them to the garment store suggested by the principal and bought Sukriti her uniform the books she would have to purchase from the school canteen herself. "Come Prachi let's buy you some clothes" Milind had stated steering them towards an expansive and rather elite boutique. "Don't you think it's expensive?" Prachi had voiced her thoughts which Milind had immediately comprehended Patel had informed him of her hailing from a middle class family. Her parents being killed in a car accident she had been thrown at the mercy of her uncle and aunt who already had four daughters of their own. He could well imagine the life she had been used to stifling her thoughts wishes happiness even as she was not one of their own. Patel had also informed him of her marriage being one of force her aunt and uncle probably wanted to get her off their hands as quickly as possible the reason they had assented to getting her married to a shop owner who resided at the corner of their street. She had not wished to marry him but still had complied because she was made aware of the stark reality that the future of her four young cousins rested upon her marriage.
"I will be paying' so don't worry" he had pressed her to him stepping in an alcove partially hidden by stacks of shoe boxes and racks of hangered clothing. She had gazed at him in gratitude "But you work hard to earn it" she had in a way applauded him for his ceaseless toil at the work front. "What use is all that wealth if not utilized for showering you with all the bounties of the world" he had watched her deeply as her eyes had lifted to his the thin film of shimmer quite visible in them. "Would you do that for me?" she had whispered "That and a lot more" he had promised her tilting her face up to him placing his lips on hers in a searing kiss. She had gasped then coming to terms with the fact that the man she stood holding on to was indeed her destiny, the only question was she in all reality truly worthy of him. The risk of exposure had caused him to withdraw almost immediately but the message had been sent across wide and clear she watched him with a feeling of staggering conscious her heart burning as if being grilled. He was perfect she had thought as his eyes traced her features sweeping over her slightly reddening lips the flushed cheeks and finally those mesmerizing eyes that had bewitched him. He did not recall any woman whose eyes could be so clearly resonant of her thoughts and feelings. Right now she seemed perturbed because of the monetary loss his mind had suggested and he had stepped out of the shadows making her follow him. They had come to a standstill before a large contrivance sarees hanging in a slope on it. "Choose" he had uttered while she guiltily fingered the garments, in all practicality she held no right to strip him off his hard earned cash for her luxuries, her eyes scoured the price tags and her hands had fallen down resting on her sides. "I' uh.. we can look elsewhere" she had managed. He on the contrary was in no mood for trivialities and had taken off a maroon, azure, lemon and peach saree off the rack handing them to the salesgirl standing beside them. Next they had stopped at the shoe corner where an excited Sukriti stood admiring her platforms in the mirror. "Aren't they cute bhabhi?" she had inquired placing her hands on her hips she inspected them with a gleam in her eye. The salesgirl had seated Prachi and had proceeded to fit her with various designs each time she slipped a certain shoe on Prachi's feet she would gaze at Milind for an approval. He had hardly uttered a word but a slight glint in his eyes confirmed the product as fit for her in the end Prachi chose three pairs tan pumps, black heels and silver beaded sandal. She seemed happy and that was all that Milind had desired paying for the purchases he had escorted them to the car. "Bhaiyya I'm hungry can we go eat at Marriot" Sukriti had whined clutching her stomach and the Marriot it had been.
Prachi had been awe struck by the attention showered on them as a concierge led them to a specific table in the posh restaurant seating them in plush velvet chairs. The manager had been informed and he had immediately appeared to exchange pleasantries with Milind while Milind had conversed sparsely the waiter had handed them the menus meanwhile. "Sir will it be the usual?" the manager had questioned with a cheesy smile and Milind had nodded in assent. "What is the usual?" Prachi had inquired and Sukriti had smiled "I'm sure it will be something classic" Milind though had remained silent his hands groping for his mobile in the coat pocket. It appeared the message he had received was of grave context as he had after reading it had frowned unpleasantly and stood up abruptly "I need to get back to work you two carry on and return home." Prachi had wished to stall him ask him to have his food before rushing off to work but had not found it in her to do so. What she did though was notice that he had indeed forgotten his wallet she spotted it hidden underneath the napkin. Picking it up she had informed Sukriti and had rushed after him quite oblivious of the stares she received in doing so, hoping to catch him on his way to the hotel's lobby. Little had she known that destiny infact had a rude shock awaiting for her she had reached the lobby jerking her head trying to single him amidst the crowd and had at last spotted his tall and robust form besides the elevator, her mind did a double take in that instant. Didn't he say he was headed to the office her heart pumped wildly why was he using the elevators and to go where. As far as she knew above the lobby started the long chain of private rooms and suites he must have a meeting she had tried to reason. She might have managed to pull herself together had she not discovered exactly whom Milnd's large profile hid afore him, it was almost a mirage and she had blinked to clear her vision. A rather petite young brunette in a pale green sundress stood with her arm threaded through his. She stared as Milind bent down to hear what she had to say she pressed her ruby lips against the shell of his ear and murmured something inaudible to which he had nodded returning the gesture. Before her very eyes she saw Milind check their whereabouts in a swift glance before stepping in the open doors of the elevator. He seemed to be in a hurry and from Prachi's vantage point she could see the numbers switch on the screen near the elevator it had halted at the fifth floor. She stood numbed unable to fathom the grim truth which stood unveiled. Hadn't he promised her she was everything that mattered to him there was no other woman besides her then what exactly was he doing with her and who was she. She stood rooted to the spot when the manager had spotted her standing in the middle of the lobby wearing a pained expression on her face. "Mrs Mishra are you alright?" he had queried worried to see her pale countenance, she was after all the wife of one of the most powerful and aristocratic businessmen of the country. "What do you have on the fifth floor of the hotel?" she had asked in a plain voice, one that had the manager thinking she was actually thinking of booking one. "The private suites madame" he had answered promptly believing that she was not feeling well he made her sit on one of the comfortable sofas nearby. "Have a seat please I will inform your family about you'r ill health" he had said but she was not listening rather it was the own thunderous beating of her revolting heart that she could hear with perfect clarity. Her heart had lurched at the sight of his intertwined arm in the brunette's was she an associate, if so why would he escort her to a private suite in the middle of the afternoon .It all simmered down to one conclusion he just couldn't leash the beast within him the pleasures of the flesh pertained far more than the untainted love she held for him. Sukriti had arrived in a matter of seconds by her side "Bhabhi are you ok?" she had asked shocked to see her listless and white faced form sitting bolt upright with a blank expression. "I'm fine" she had heard herself talking congratulating herself for actually finding her voice in the nick of time. "Sukriti I need to go home, do you wish to come?" another classic performance yes she could just about manage it. "Yes bhabhi we'll leave" she had consented considering it best for them to take return. Apologizing to the manager they both had left immediately it had seemed to Prachi that the mirage she had been following had disappeared and she was surrounded by the barren dessert yawning at her in lazy pleasure devouring her till she had felt herself sink in the very depths of the crust itself.
Part 16
The ride home had been a tensed one Sukriti could almost feel the strain that sprang off from Prachi she hadn't said a word since they had left. Her face turned towards the window, mind benumbed she wished she could blot out all she had seen. The stable more rational part of her told her to be open to options there could be a valid explanation to it all and that she shouldn't jump to conclusions prior to gaining complete knowledge of all facts. The more sentimental, betrayed in love part of her screeched out in agony pain shooting through her body like shards of glass stuck in the flesh. On reaching home she had busied herself in work, trying her best to let the time fly by but then even if it did and he did come home could she question him on meeting a woman.... he probably met many on a daily basis then why debate over one in particular. Flashes of Milind with the brunette haunted her and try as she might she couldn't come to make herself believe otherwise. Afternoon had given way to evening and by the time Milind returned home that night Prachi had retired to bed. .He had not had lunch and had hoped to dine with his family once he reached home he was though rather disappointed to see Kaka, the only soul awaiting him "Is everyone else asleep?" he had questioned quietly his gaze lifting up to his closed bedroom. "It's nearly twelve son they had to go to bed" Kaka had smiled taking the hint. He had noticed Prachi had been distant and listless the entire evening and had thought it best for her to hit the sack early that night. Eating a half hearted meal Milind had trudged to his bedroom to be further shocked Prachi it seemed was nowhere in the room and so were her belongings all that they had shopped for together was though stacked in a corner of the room... unpacked. She hadn't even felt the need to open the packets and he felt his heart crumble then, did his heart felt gestures mean nothing to her.
Dressed in his robe he had walked to the guest room to find her restless in bed trudging up to it he had studied her intently, in the dim light of the lamp she appeared pale and weak much to his surprise. She had looked perfect that afternoon what could possibly have happened to bring about this drastic change. "Prachi" he had whispered softly and her eyes had opened to welcome the musical voice, she had been expecting him, sleep had evaded her as she had been pampered regularly with the warmth of his body. She felt incomplete as if a part of her was amiss and she had known it was him she longed for. But what was she to do if he was in denial of their relationship he had failed to confess his love for her, moreover his decision to postpone their marriage and then the brunette weren't going down well with her. She seemed perturbed by her own beguilement at one hand she needed him so badly her body couldn't accept being even an inch away from him and on the other hand her heart derided her on accepting his deceit in the name of need. "Is everything alright?" he had questioned duskily sitting beside her caressing her smooth cheek with his fingers.
"I'm ok" she had tried to smile, failing at it miserably. "Why are you here?' he had wanted to know concern evident in his deep black eyes she could almost see them yearning for her. "I thought we should maintain some distance till the marriage" Prachi had explained to her ownself rather than him. Who was she fooling she had thought bitterly was he blind or did she actually expect him to be so daft as not be able to read her body language by now, he who had read many afore her. "Is that what you actually want... or what you want me to believe?" he had inquired his voice quiet yet instinctively scrutinizing and she couldn't find any answer. He knew her more than she had accredited him to. Something in her eyes had given her away maybe the truth had always been there for him to understand stepping out of his flip flops he had pulled away the covers settling beside her. His arm had hung across her waist pulling her closer. "Don't do that again" his voice had rung clear in her ear as his lips pressed against her skin and she had given in to her own hunger for him. Closing her eyes she let herself be enveloped in a thick blanket of peaceful silence. Tomorrow she had promised her overtaxed mind... tomorrow I will question him and she had fallen fast asleep.
Morning dawned faster than Prachi had expected it seemed as if it were only a few minutes before that she had closed her eyes. Milind had been awake and was probably busy freshening up in his room, she had taken to the washroom herself trying to do away with the jealousy that had been nagging her since yesterday. Putting on a warm yellow saree she had stepped out of the room and joined Kaka for breakfast "You'r early" he had smiled. "Guess I've got the hang of it" she had returned the gesture "Good then you can go join him for a cup of coffee in the room while I cook up a treat" he had said handing her two cups of steaming coffee. Kaka had been observant and had noticed Milind entering the guest room the previous night, if something was brewing up between the two it would be better if it was nipped in the bud. He had come to learn through painful experience how amazingly expeditious misunderstandings could prove to be distancing hearts within a matter of minutes. Prachi had let out a small sigh taking the tray bearing the cups and had made her way to their bedroom, pushing the door open she found him standing in the middle of the room in his pants. His naked back to her, hands clutching the mobile close to the ear "We cannot let anyone know about this.... especially not her. You realize she won't be able to accept it, I really have worked hard to gain her trust can't afford to lose it all now" Prachi had frozen in her tracks desperately trying to make heads and tail of the conversation. "She hasn't come to know about anything... not even our secretive meetings.... I'll meet you again soon. Let her be ignorant in this accord..... yes today ... no not at the Marriot... somewhere more private" and with that the phone had been clicked shut.
Turning around he was caught off guard to find Prachi standing near the door "When did you come?" he had inquired and Prachi had searched his countenance for any sort of clue as to who was the person he had been talking to earlier. "Who was that?" she had questioned handing him his coffee "A friend" he had answered sipping on the creamy liquid. "At work?" she was beginning to sound suspicious now and she knew it but couldn't help it. "Why the interrogation" he clearly did not seem happy to be put to question by her. "It's time we started working on a thing called relationship Milind" Prachi had shot back tersely she was tired of his short syllables and arcane moves, she needed to be a part of his life and that would not happen till he himself allowed her. "Prachi I don't have time for this" he had waived her off with a careless shrug and tears had sprung to her eyes. "The problem is Milind Mishra you don't have time for me, what I feel or think hardly matters to you. It is just you and your enigma that is so damned important that you cannot perceive or see beyond it" she had spat out in a curt tone her heart ripping in pieces. Walking to his wardrobe she had taken out his wallet from within it and handed it to a rather grim faced Milind who certainly wasn't expecting such a railing from her. "I might've returned it to you yesterday afternoon had you not been busy acting chummy with the brunette" she had further astounded him with her cognizance on his whereabouts the previous day. "A relationship requires trust Prachi and I see you have none in me. I will not stand here and provide you an explanation because I for one was disillusioned enough to consider our bond free of such malice... I can see that is not the case." With that he had put on the rest of his garments in dead silence, this time however Prachi was not in a mood to be snubbed by him and had exited the room before him. If he did not care she would not either and with that sole thought in mind she had returned to the guest room slamming the door shut behind her. Milind had left without having any breakfast he felt too miserable to eat anything the one woman he had bared himself to had gone ahead and done what all before her had done.... consider him wrong.
The day had been dreadful for Prachi after her tiff with Milind she could not find peace in any corner of her heart she had gone over the brief conversation a million times in her mind yet could only conclude that he hardly cared if he was coy enough to make her believe no explanations were required in a relationship he most definitely was wrong. She desired to comprehend him in every way and that required him to be honest about her position in his life. Her inner turmoil had rendered her incapable of any other thought and when Kaka had suggested she take him lunch she had assented absentmindedly. What where when and how seemed phases spinning in and out around her truth and present state. The gravity of the situation only struck her in the gut when Raghu had parked the car in the vast premise of his office parking lot, she sat stunned what exactly had she landed herself in, how could she be so oblivious. Cursing herself for her absence of presence of mind she had walked up the lobby and then ridden the elevator to his cabin. The short ride gave her time enough to gather her bearings and make herself presentable wiping traces of apprehension off her face she had stepped in his cabin. What though awaited her was quite unexpected she hadn't knocked considering it her right to barge in and had later deemed it best a decision since she could clearly see he was quite busy with the familiar brunette.
A surge of jealous rage engulfed her as she stood rooted at the doorway dwindling between screaming her lungs out or running away and then the latter option had seemed the best. She was just another dispensable piece of flesh nothing more he had several other alluring options to choose from. The brunette seemed busy bending over him as they studied some document together she had laughed softly with a triumphant tinkle to her laughter. "We did it" she had informed him silkily "Still a lot to be done" he had corrected her humorously. "I wouldn't worry about that if I were you" she had flashed him a seductive smile kissing him on his bearded cheek and he had smiled in response. Letting the door shut noiselessly behind her Prachi had turned down the hallway defeated, her legs felt like lead and in that one instant she had made up her mind, taken a tremendous decision of leaving him for good. Depositing the food pack with the receptionist she had headed down the steps with a firm resolve to never look back at him, braving a sudden desire to sob hysterically she had left the office on foot as far as she was concerned she had no right over him and and his possessions thus she had abandoned the Audi too. Raghu had been quite alarmed to see her cruise away from the Audi something somewhere was wrong. He had gunned the engine immediately taking after her rolling down the glass he had called out to her "Madam why are you walking afoot?" he had asked "Raghu return to Mishra house I need to be on my own" she had tried to pacify him which ofcourse was a futile attempt since he had discovered the glistening trail of tell tale tears running down her cheeks. "Madam either you sit in the car or I make you sit" he had threatened her much to her disgust. "I said I don't require your services Raghu... now leave me alone" she had screamed causing a few passer bys to stop and stare. This was too much for Raghu he knew if he pursued her further he might be considered wrong by the pedestrians who had started glaring at him "Madam if you do not sit in the car right now i will personally tell all these ppl you are mad and are in serious need of medical treatment and believe me I can prove to be very persuasive" Raghu had threatened her stopping the car and alighting it he opened the back door open for her to get in.
"Get lost Raghu" she had hissed eyeing the increasing crowd around her "Either you get in or I pronounce you insane this minute" his eyes were cold and ruthless, he could go to any lengths for his master she was his life and he was not going to let her stray away from him at any cost. Scowling at him Prachi had sit inside the Audi "Fine now take me to the bus station I'm not going home" she had instructed him stubbornly oh hell yeah he'd take her to the train station he had thought dryly. Rolling the car towards the highway he had slowed down the speed considerably texting a message to his master. Madam gone nuts wants to go to train station, seems angry awaiting instructions Raghu. Minutes later he had received a message from Milind Bring her to the mansion in half an hour, not less not more and with that he had signed off. Unknown to Prachi the decisions had been made she sat silent in the back seat formulating plans on running away from Mumbaii..... useless as would appear to her later.
The ride home had been a tensed one Sukriti could almost feel the strain that sprang off from Prachi she hadn't said a word since they had left. Her face turned towards the window, mind benumbed she wished she could blot out all she had seen. The stable more rational part of her told her to be open to options there could be a valid explanation to it all and that she shouldn't jump to conclusions prior to gaining complete knowledge of all facts. The more sentimental, betrayed in love part of her screeched out in agony pain shooting through her body like shards of glass stuck in the flesh. On reaching home she had busied herself in work, trying her best to let the time fly by but then even if it did and he did come home could she question him on meeting a woman.... he probably met many on a daily basis then why debate over one in particular. Flashes of Milind with the brunette haunted her and try as she might she couldn't come to make herself believe otherwise. Afternoon had given way to evening and by the time Milind returned home that night Prachi had retired to bed. .He had not had lunch and had hoped to dine with his family once he reached home he was though rather disappointed to see Kaka, the only soul awaiting him "Is everyone else asleep?" he had questioned quietly his gaze lifting up to his closed bedroom. "It's nearly twelve son they had to go to bed" Kaka had smiled taking the hint. He had noticed Prachi had been distant and listless the entire evening and had thought it best for her to hit the sack early that night. Eating a half hearted meal Milind had trudged to his bedroom to be further shocked Prachi it seemed was nowhere in the room and so were her belongings all that they had shopped for together was though stacked in a corner of the room... unpacked. She hadn't even felt the need to open the packets and he felt his heart crumble then, did his heart felt gestures mean nothing to her.
Dressed in his robe he had walked to the guest room to find her restless in bed trudging up to it he had studied her intently, in the dim light of the lamp she appeared pale and weak much to his surprise. She had looked perfect that afternoon what could possibly have happened to bring about this drastic change. "Prachi" he had whispered softly and her eyes had opened to welcome the musical voice, she had been expecting him, sleep had evaded her as she had been pampered regularly with the warmth of his body. She felt incomplete as if a part of her was amiss and she had known it was him she longed for. But what was she to do if he was in denial of their relationship he had failed to confess his love for her, moreover his decision to postpone their marriage and then the brunette weren't going down well with her. She seemed perturbed by her own beguilement at one hand she needed him so badly her body couldn't accept being even an inch away from him and on the other hand her heart derided her on accepting his deceit in the name of need. "Is everything alright?" he had questioned duskily sitting beside her caressing her smooth cheek with his fingers.
"I'm ok" she had tried to smile, failing at it miserably. "Why are you here?' he had wanted to know concern evident in his deep black eyes she could almost see them yearning for her. "I thought we should maintain some distance till the marriage" Prachi had explained to her ownself rather than him. Who was she fooling she had thought bitterly was he blind or did she actually expect him to be so daft as not be able to read her body language by now, he who had read many afore her. "Is that what you actually want... or what you want me to believe?" he had inquired his voice quiet yet instinctively scrutinizing and she couldn't find any answer. He knew her more than she had accredited him to. Something in her eyes had given her away maybe the truth had always been there for him to understand stepping out of his flip flops he had pulled away the covers settling beside her. His arm had hung across her waist pulling her closer. "Don't do that again" his voice had rung clear in her ear as his lips pressed against her skin and she had given in to her own hunger for him. Closing her eyes she let herself be enveloped in a thick blanket of peaceful silence. Tomorrow she had promised her overtaxed mind... tomorrow I will question him and she had fallen fast asleep.
Morning dawned faster than Prachi had expected it seemed as if it were only a few minutes before that she had closed her eyes. Milind had been awake and was probably busy freshening up in his room, she had taken to the washroom herself trying to do away with the jealousy that had been nagging her since yesterday. Putting on a warm yellow saree she had stepped out of the room and joined Kaka for breakfast "You'r early" he had smiled. "Guess I've got the hang of it" she had returned the gesture "Good then you can go join him for a cup of coffee in the room while I cook up a treat" he had said handing her two cups of steaming coffee. Kaka had been observant and had noticed Milind entering the guest room the previous night, if something was brewing up between the two it would be better if it was nipped in the bud. He had come to learn through painful experience how amazingly expeditious misunderstandings could prove to be distancing hearts within a matter of minutes. Prachi had let out a small sigh taking the tray bearing the cups and had made her way to their bedroom, pushing the door open she found him standing in the middle of the room in his pants. His naked back to her, hands clutching the mobile close to the ear "We cannot let anyone know about this.... especially not her. You realize she won't be able to accept it, I really have worked hard to gain her trust can't afford to lose it all now" Prachi had frozen in her tracks desperately trying to make heads and tail of the conversation. "She hasn't come to know about anything... not even our secretive meetings.... I'll meet you again soon. Let her be ignorant in this accord..... yes today ... no not at the Marriot... somewhere more private" and with that the phone had been clicked shut.
Turning around he was caught off guard to find Prachi standing near the door "When did you come?" he had inquired and Prachi had searched his countenance for any sort of clue as to who was the person he had been talking to earlier. "Who was that?" she had questioned handing him his coffee "A friend" he had answered sipping on the creamy liquid. "At work?" she was beginning to sound suspicious now and she knew it but couldn't help it. "Why the interrogation" he clearly did not seem happy to be put to question by her. "It's time we started working on a thing called relationship Milind" Prachi had shot back tersely she was tired of his short syllables and arcane moves, she needed to be a part of his life and that would not happen till he himself allowed her. "Prachi I don't have time for this" he had waived her off with a careless shrug and tears had sprung to her eyes. "The problem is Milind Mishra you don't have time for me, what I feel or think hardly matters to you. It is just you and your enigma that is so damned important that you cannot perceive or see beyond it" she had spat out in a curt tone her heart ripping in pieces. Walking to his wardrobe she had taken out his wallet from within it and handed it to a rather grim faced Milind who certainly wasn't expecting such a railing from her. "I might've returned it to you yesterday afternoon had you not been busy acting chummy with the brunette" she had further astounded him with her cognizance on his whereabouts the previous day. "A relationship requires trust Prachi and I see you have none in me. I will not stand here and provide you an explanation because I for one was disillusioned enough to consider our bond free of such malice... I can see that is not the case." With that he had put on the rest of his garments in dead silence, this time however Prachi was not in a mood to be snubbed by him and had exited the room before him. If he did not care she would not either and with that sole thought in mind she had returned to the guest room slamming the door shut behind her. Milind had left without having any breakfast he felt too miserable to eat anything the one woman he had bared himself to had gone ahead and done what all before her had done.... consider him wrong.
The day had been dreadful for Prachi after her tiff with Milind she could not find peace in any corner of her heart she had gone over the brief conversation a million times in her mind yet could only conclude that he hardly cared if he was coy enough to make her believe no explanations were required in a relationship he most definitely was wrong. She desired to comprehend him in every way and that required him to be honest about her position in his life. Her inner turmoil had rendered her incapable of any other thought and when Kaka had suggested she take him lunch she had assented absentmindedly. What where when and how seemed phases spinning in and out around her truth and present state. The gravity of the situation only struck her in the gut when Raghu had parked the car in the vast premise of his office parking lot, she sat stunned what exactly had she landed herself in, how could she be so oblivious. Cursing herself for her absence of presence of mind she had walked up the lobby and then ridden the elevator to his cabin. The short ride gave her time enough to gather her bearings and make herself presentable wiping traces of apprehension off her face she had stepped in his cabin. What though awaited her was quite unexpected she hadn't knocked considering it her right to barge in and had later deemed it best a decision since she could clearly see he was quite busy with the familiar brunette.
A surge of jealous rage engulfed her as she stood rooted at the doorway dwindling between screaming her lungs out or running away and then the latter option had seemed the best. She was just another dispensable piece of flesh nothing more he had several other alluring options to choose from. The brunette seemed busy bending over him as they studied some document together she had laughed softly with a triumphant tinkle to her laughter. "We did it" she had informed him silkily "Still a lot to be done" he had corrected her humorously. "I wouldn't worry about that if I were you" she had flashed him a seductive smile kissing him on his bearded cheek and he had smiled in response. Letting the door shut noiselessly behind her Prachi had turned down the hallway defeated, her legs felt like lead and in that one instant she had made up her mind, taken a tremendous decision of leaving him for good. Depositing the food pack with the receptionist she had headed down the steps with a firm resolve to never look back at him, braving a sudden desire to sob hysterically she had left the office on foot as far as she was concerned she had no right over him and and his possessions thus she had abandoned the Audi too. Raghu had been quite alarmed to see her cruise away from the Audi something somewhere was wrong. He had gunned the engine immediately taking after her rolling down the glass he had called out to her "Madam why are you walking afoot?" he had asked "Raghu return to Mishra house I need to be on my own" she had tried to pacify him which ofcourse was a futile attempt since he had discovered the glistening trail of tell tale tears running down her cheeks. "Madam either you sit in the car or I make you sit" he had threatened her much to her disgust. "I said I don't require your services Raghu... now leave me alone" she had screamed causing a few passer bys to stop and stare. This was too much for Raghu he knew if he pursued her further he might be considered wrong by the pedestrians who had started glaring at him "Madam if you do not sit in the car right now i will personally tell all these ppl you are mad and are in serious need of medical treatment and believe me I can prove to be very persuasive" Raghu had threatened her stopping the car and alighting it he opened the back door open for her to get in.
"Get lost Raghu" she had hissed eyeing the increasing crowd around her "Either you get in or I pronounce you insane this minute" his eyes were cold and ruthless, he could go to any lengths for his master she was his life and he was not going to let her stray away from him at any cost. Scowling at him Prachi had sit inside the Audi "Fine now take me to the bus station I'm not going home" she had instructed him stubbornly oh hell yeah he'd take her to the train station he had thought dryly. Rolling the car towards the highway he had slowed down the speed considerably texting a message to his master. Madam gone nuts wants to go to train station, seems angry awaiting instructions Raghu. Minutes later he had received a message from Milind Bring her to the mansion in half an hour, not less not more and with that he had signed off. Unknown to Prachi the decisions had been made she sat silent in the back seat formulating plans on running away from Mumbaii..... useless as would appear to her later.
Part 17
Half and hour slipped by and an unsuspecting Prachi stood at the front door of the mansion gritting her teeth. Before she could protest or even think of admonishing Raghu into tricking her Milind had appeared at the doorway dressed in a cream cambric sherwani. Holding her by the hand he had pulled her up the winding stairs to their bedroom shutting the door behind him. Her eyes inadvertently rested on the scarlet lehenga laid out on the silken bedspread. "Wear that and be downstairs in fifteen minutes" he had ordered her eyes dark, tone commanding countenance indecipherable. "If you think I'm listening to any of your rubbish you'r mistaken" she had answered in a blazing tone still raw from the morning encounter. Striding towards her he had held her in his arms pushing her face up making her look up at him "Fifteen minutes and believe me if you don't come down I'll personally strip you off and dress you myself if I have to" he had glowered at her with what seemed an amalgamation of rigid passion and authority. "Dare you touch me Milind and I'll scream" she had threatened him though they both had known instantaneously it was as hollow as her resolve to leave him. "By all means.... go ahead" he had mocked her before thrusting her face up to his with a slight tug of his hand crushing down his mouth on her lips making her aware of the power he held over her. The kiss was strong bitter and sweet at the same moment enticing her, he knew how to excite her and did that like a pro. Her lips had parted involuntarily as his fingers raked in her hair jerking her to him his mouth pleasing her in a fascinating way her palms had curled up beside her. Her mind ordered her to stop yet the ache that had built up within her was releasing warm passionate notions that coursed through her very veins rendering her helpless. Her breathing was ragged as he pressed her to him mouth against mouth the urgency of the need to be fulfilled so clear she felt she would melt in his hold.
He bit in her lip tenderly making her moan fanning her desires his hot mouth taking control of her soft one. She had tried to push him away as his lips eased down her lips to her chin, struggling hard encased in his strong arms but that had been otiose. He had held her face firmly in his palm searching her for any clues of mutiny her eyes were shadowed lips ajar still reeling from the aftermath of his kiss. "Dare to threaten me now" he had derided her in a mock serious tone. "I will" she had replied defiantly though her heart had fluttered yet she had to keep up with the act for the sake of her wounded pride. "Ahaan!" he had raised his eyebrows as she tried her best to set herself free "Leave me" she had scowled. "Get ready" he had instructed her "I won't..." she had negated the command immediately "Don't force me Prachi" he had warned her irked at her insolence. "You can't make me..." she had wanted to elucidate on her rights as a an independent human being when she had felt her lips captured within his once again this time the force and intensity was such that she feared she might just black out. She had held on to him for support as she felt herself weaken go limp against him his sensuous mouth working wonders and for once she had let him discover her anew. He had released her after what seemed an eternity and only when he had found her short of breath letting her pant while she stared at him in awe. "Next time you even try to threaten me I'll have you there and then" he had narrowed his slate eyes boring his piercing gaze in her face making her understand he meant each and every word he had uttered. Letting go of her he had sauntered away from her outraged form before turning around on an impulse "Fifteen minutes" he reminded her hotly before slamming the door shut. Prachi had felt like setting the lehenga on fire if that indeed could be possible. Nonetheless she knew he was serious about him dressing her himself he was very much capable of doing that to her. She was furious with him for stepping on her raw nerve each time and herself for letting him get away with it. His influence on her was impossible to shun and she feared he might just go ahead with his threats and make her his in every way which was not acceptable to her at the moment.
They did not share a legal relationship and she was certainly not like the many he had had in his bed before her. She had gone ahead and tried her best to appear ravishing not that she needed to work much in that aspect. As promised he was beside her in exactly fifteen minutes while she perfected her lip gloss he stood beside her one look at her and she knew he had fallen flat for her. His eyes had gleamed as he studied her in accurate detail making her shift her weight on her feet uncomfortably. Even in haste his choice seemed divine the lehenga fitted her like a glove accentuating her lithe body highlighting the curves his eyes had started from her golden kohlapuris to her milky midriff and finally up her blouse to her kiss swollen lips. Her face was like a full moon against a black sky glowing even in unhappiness her large hazel eyes rimmed with kohl and done up in a softer shade of the scarlet with gold. Taking her dupatta he had pinned it to her hair while she gazed at him in the mirror consternation dripping from her eyes however she refrained from questioning him lest she be rewarded with another one of his empowering kisses.
Finishing with the task he had led her to the lounge downstairs where all the family members were gathered as clueless as herself. What was unmissable was though a pundit preparing for some sort of occassion and that was when the reality had struck her. He was marrying her that quite explained the attire and the finery, it seemed Kaka had an inkling he was the only one adorning a smile while Sukriti gawked at them that too in her track suit and flip flops. Raghu stood solemnly beside the pundit discussing the items needed and finally Prachi's eyes had sought out Baba amidst the small crowd... had Milind really called him to attend their wedding, she couldn't be sure. All this while Milind had held her hand tightly lest she try to take off again. "Start pundit ji" he had told the elderly man who had broken in a chant almost immediately. Prachi's mind had stopped thinking at that point the only fact that remained illuminated in bright bold letters was that it was her wedding with the man she loved. She sat silently by his side her eyes surprisingly dry and focused on the leaping flames of the holy fire afore her, he hadn't asked her consent, given her time to think this was too brutal in her opinion. But then had she not wanted it to come to this why apprehend his actions when they mirrored her own desires. It was over as soon as it had started she vaguely remembered them taking their vows around the fire, him clasping the lock of the mangalsutr around her neck and filling her hair parting with vermillion after that she had passed out most conveniently landing in her new husband's arms.
She had awoken to a deep silence and blotted shadows rubbing her temple she awoke wearily her vision blurred the room appeared empty. She scanned it to observe a silhouette she had been mistaken. There he was nursing a drink in his left hand looking at her his figure a ghoulish outline on the sofa. She had switched the lamp open to see him clearly, putting the tumbler to his lips he took a careless swig of it. "Dear darling wife finally you awaken" he had drawled the obtrusive sarcasm evident. So it hadn't been a dream after all it had happened at some definite point in time one which appeared rather whimsical now she had thought blindly staring at him with evocative eyes. Unlocking his feet he stood up and neared her placing himself beside her she had watched his steps firmly planted and confident of their victory and a part of her had broken down then. "I hope you'r happy with the designation Mrs Prachi Milind Mishra" he had told her cynically. " I couldn't bear all that bullshit you threw at me this morning and then running away.... you honestly thought I'd let you go this easy... did you?" He had placed the tumbler to his lips again finishing the contents in it before throwing it on the carpet where it had landed noiselessly. "Why?" she had questioned "Why this way.. you could've told me" she had chided him softly and he had shot her a bashful look.
"How dare you ask me for explanations when you yourself haven't given me any" he had derided her harshly. The lashing had hit the bulls eye she had looked at him in horror had he known she had thought her face going a stark pale. "I kept waiting for you to accept you never had amnesia but you didn't... kept charging me for infidelity when you are no less of a counterfeit yourself" his tone was accusing eyes fixated on her. His clenched fists enabled Prachi to realize how hard it had been to know the truth and yet be silent on the facts. She had looked at him in disbelief he had known all along then why had he not questioned her earlier a single tear had left her eye vanishing in the depths of the silken folds. She knew she had wronged but it had not been for any ill intention all she had wanted was an escape from the prison she had spent the past fifteen years of her life in. She alone had known the burden of her guilt true she had a temporary wave of amnesia after the accident but it had worn off soon. After his reconcile with Sukriti she had remembered everything with vivid clarity Sukriti's condition had enabled her to ruminate on her own life before she had met Milind. In helping her get over her past she had regained hers, memories from her previous life assailed her one where she had been forced to live and work as a servant in her uncle's house. Her aunt was an unforgiving creature who treated her like a slave when she had turned eighteen she was forced to work as a waitress in one of Milind's hotels. Her aunt and uncle had pulled away their hands from her expenses at a very young age she initially worked in boutiques and libraries but one day she had applied as a waitress in Milind's hotel. The pay was promising and the hours weren't tedious she had been chosen after an interview little had she realized it would turn out to be a promising chapter in her life. It was there that she had discovered that he was a gem of a person masking his true nature to fool the world but she had seen right through him.
Their first encounter had been at his private suite where she had been sent to entertain him, it had been dark and he had been expecting one of the strippers from a nearby club. She had been petrified when he had asked her to denude herself and had broken down begging him to let her go as he had mistaken her for another. He had not touched her rather had let her stay in his room since it was late in the night and had promised to drop her to her home first thing in the morning. She had seen him go drunk and then finally fall asleep on his master bed cursing his mother she couldn't sleep even a wink and as soon as day had dawned she had crept out of the suite running away. Word of them being together spread out and her tarnished image had caused trouble for her she was forced to consent marrying the shop owner around the corner twice her age. Precisely at the auspicious moment he had denied to tie the knot with her highlighting her so called sin to the guests gathered for the wedding. Unable to bear it all Prachi had fled from the venue and had ended up in front of his car. "I am sorry I never told you the truth.... but I couldn't lose you" she had consented to her mistake crying inconsolably. "Why the farce Prachi you could've told me" he had apprehended her still unhappy. "Would you have let me stay then Milind, be a part of your family?" she had questioned him through red repentant eyes. "I couldn't go back to that hell and so I sought refuge here I only tried my best to make you happy Milind" she had covered her face in her palms tears running down her cheeks as she wept making Milind's heart melt. "You knew what sort of a life I had lived Prachi then why accuse me of infidelity... that too when you very well know I can't do it now" he had inquired of her pulling her hands away wiping the tears with the back of his hand. "I was jealous of them" she had confided in him truthfully "I can't see you with anyone other than me" she had further enlightened him making his anger dissipate in a matter of moments. "Why did you never let me explain Prachi..." he had gathered her in his arms then placing soft kisses on her cheeks "Let it be Milind.... I have come to understand you were always true to me... I was too afraid... too blinded by jealousy to see the plain truth" she had confessed her feelings to him from the very depths of her heart.
"Make me your's Milind before I shatter" she had cried burying her face in his shoulder and had pulled her closer to him. "You can't till I'm here with you" he had assured her kissing her cheeks and puffy eyes assiduously . "Don't you want to know who that girl was Prachi" he had offered an explanation "No Milind... I trust you and want to start our journey together based on complete faith in you" he had complied to her wishes making her lay on the bed beside him. "I'm sorry I hurt you so" he had unpinned her dupatta freeing her of it's captivity taking off her jewellery and clothes next. She had in answer cupped his face in her palms and planted light kisses on his nose, cheeks and lastly the full warm lips. "I love you Milind" she had whispered "I always have ever since I saw you" and he had raised his head completing his task to find an infinite serenity etched in her eyes. "How?" he had wanted to know still perplexed "I knew you were a tormented soul when that night I was forced to entertain you but you refused to use me. You kept ranting about your mother and had held my hand I couldn't resit letting you kiss me then.... that was the moment I fell in love with you" tears had trailed down her temples which he had flicked away with his fleshy thumbs. "That was you..." he had murmured astounded closing in on her bare form "No wonder when I touched you after the accident I felt as if I had known you... always" he had enlightened her.. "Couldn't ask you to leave even after knowing about your whereabouts... I had fallen so badly for you then" he had told her his eyes thick with a deep blackness that exposed his soul to her. Her eyes had glazed again when he had shaken his head "No... no tears from now on... just you and me.. and our happiness" he had promised her as her hands lifted his kurta off him.
He had found her mouth then kissing her with such passion and hunger that she had felt herself meshing in him. The solid of his body enveloped her so snugly, so comfortably she had experienced eternal bliss responding to his masterly kisses with pent up ardor of her own. He had kissed her with such longing she had found it hard to keep herself from screaming his name out his lips trailing tempting kisses down the entire length of her body and she had arched as the ache had engulfed her completely. He had retreated in similar fashion the kisses slower more deliberate most tender as he neared her quivering lips her eyes had begged him to own her in every sense. Their desires had elevated as his hands slid down her bosom and waist down her midriff to her hips raising her up gently. Her arms had hooked around him caressing his naked velvety back with her soft fingers. He had moaned then as the need to be one consumed him whole his mouth busy pacifying hers. They had parted then and he had watched her beauteous face for consent "I need you so bad Prachi" he had murmured and she had gazed long and deep at him her eyes mirroring his wants. "I want you too" she had whispered raising her head up to meet his mouth the amor had set their souls on an invisible fire as their bodies discovered each other. She had not let go of him while his firm grip on her hips had allowed them to traverse a path of scintillating exploration. Moving in perfect rhythm their bodies and breaths had fallen in sync she had arched beneath him holding him close to her as the pleasure fused them together like a million fireworks set alight. Their souls had been freed that night encountering the passion, love and profound knowledge that they were destined to be together forever. He had embraced her to him skin to skin she could feel his heart beat against her own.
"Will you ever leave me Prachi?" he had questioned her softly and she had raised her face from his arm to meet his moist eyes. It was the first time she had seen him so nakedly vulnerable "Do you think one can leave life?" she had questioned him kissing his chin. "I won't ever" she had promised closing her arms around his broad chest. "Say you'll always stay... that you'll forgive me for my temper that I cannot hold and you I cannot lose... because I love you Prachi" he had sussurused a single tear falling down his eye . Prachi's heart had flipped then he had confessed he loved her the three words she had longed to hear had finally been spoken by him her own eyes had turned misty. Combing his curls lovingly with her slender fingers she had softly kissed his closed eyes."I'll always stay with you I promise" she had smiled as he had opened his eyes again. "Say you are mine" he had asked her "I am your's for now and forever" and with that she had felt his lips close in on hers again smiling before they kissed her taking her on a second journey to ecstasy.
The next morning had been a pleasant one just the revelation of him being with her had made Prachi's heart float with happiness. She had awoken to find him watching her "Good morning" she had kissed him as he stretched out a languid hand to pull her to him cocooning her in his arms. "Good morning sweetheart" he had murmured back placing soft kisses on her exposed neck. "This is how I want every morning to be... with you in my arms" he had told her smiling in satisfaction while she had kissed his bare arms "This is how it will be Milind... always" she had smiled when he had turned her to face him. "Want to have a bath?" he had asked her naughtily propping his elbow on the pillow looking at her with nothing but love. "Fine I'll take mine you can rest till then" she had suggested when he had shaken his head in the negative. "We are going to have a bath... together" he had clarified and she had blushed "No" she had giggled. "You very well know you can't deny me anything" he had smiled wickedly while she had pouted "That's unfair" she had complained and he had laughed in mirth. "Everything's fair in love darling" he had reminded her removing the thin sheet that covered her making the blush on her cheeks deepen as he studied her in broad daylight that illuminated the room before covering her with his robust form altogether. They had showered together an hour later with Prachi blushing so profusely he wondered if he had married a beet root instead of a woman. "Prachi stop that or I'll just have to eat you" he had exclaimed standing under the faucet as the water drenched him to the core. "Why?" she had asked shyly water running down her body freely making him go insane with desire. "You drive me nuts you know that" he had told her and she had hugged him in answer her skin flaring with fire that burnt their souls the gushing water unable to quell their thirst for each other. When they had finally found time to dress and go down to the dining area it was almost afternoon.
Raghu who had been helping Kaka with the kitchen work had coughed purposely to see Milind descend the stairs which had earned him a glare from his master. Prachi's cheeks had immediately flared in recognition her lips smiling as her eyes met Milind's making Kaka smile to see them both happy and content with each other. Laying the food on the table Prachi had gone to Baba's room and had touched his feet in reverence he had blessed her for blissful married life hoping that this union would prove to be the best thing to happen to Milind. Kaka had explained to him the chain of events that had taken place and had ended in Milind's decision to marry Prachi. To Mishraji Prachi was always his daughter in law and he had been more than happy to witness his son's wedding he couldn't believe his ears when Milind had asked him to come down to the lounge the previous day. Somewhere in his heart the hope that he might one day be forgiven for his negligence towards his children had rekindled. Prachi had led him to the dining table and had seated him beside Milind and for once Milind had not objected to him being there. Lunch was a joyous occasion as Milind and Prachi stole glances at each other across the table.The rest of the day was gone in a flash, that night after a scintillating union with Milind Prachi had gazed at his face thoughtfully "Anything wrong?" he had inquired her concern evident from his tone. "I just wish we could get Sameera back somehow I don't trust her with Saket" Prachi had shared her worry with Milind and he had smiled she was so genuinely caring it made his heart go warm with overflowing love for her. "There's a time for everything Prachi" he had assured her pressing her thumb against her turgid lips watching her intently . "Hmm" she had mused her eyes locking with his "As you wish" she had resigned immediately as he pulled her to him clasping her to his broad chest rolling her beneath him. "As my wish..... can you guess what my wish is now?" he had asked her mischievously. "Yes I can" she had smiled lowering his face to her own letting her fingers run wild in his mane as her lips met his in a blissful unison.
Half and hour slipped by and an unsuspecting Prachi stood at the front door of the mansion gritting her teeth. Before she could protest or even think of admonishing Raghu into tricking her Milind had appeared at the doorway dressed in a cream cambric sherwani. Holding her by the hand he had pulled her up the winding stairs to their bedroom shutting the door behind him. Her eyes inadvertently rested on the scarlet lehenga laid out on the silken bedspread. "Wear that and be downstairs in fifteen minutes" he had ordered her eyes dark, tone commanding countenance indecipherable. "If you think I'm listening to any of your rubbish you'r mistaken" she had answered in a blazing tone still raw from the morning encounter. Striding towards her he had held her in his arms pushing her face up making her look up at him "Fifteen minutes and believe me if you don't come down I'll personally strip you off and dress you myself if I have to" he had glowered at her with what seemed an amalgamation of rigid passion and authority. "Dare you touch me Milind and I'll scream" she had threatened him though they both had known instantaneously it was as hollow as her resolve to leave him. "By all means.... go ahead" he had mocked her before thrusting her face up to his with a slight tug of his hand crushing down his mouth on her lips making her aware of the power he held over her. The kiss was strong bitter and sweet at the same moment enticing her, he knew how to excite her and did that like a pro. Her lips had parted involuntarily as his fingers raked in her hair jerking her to him his mouth pleasing her in a fascinating way her palms had curled up beside her. Her mind ordered her to stop yet the ache that had built up within her was releasing warm passionate notions that coursed through her very veins rendering her helpless. Her breathing was ragged as he pressed her to him mouth against mouth the urgency of the need to be fulfilled so clear she felt she would melt in his hold.
He bit in her lip tenderly making her moan fanning her desires his hot mouth taking control of her soft one. She had tried to push him away as his lips eased down her lips to her chin, struggling hard encased in his strong arms but that had been otiose. He had held her face firmly in his palm searching her for any clues of mutiny her eyes were shadowed lips ajar still reeling from the aftermath of his kiss. "Dare to threaten me now" he had derided her in a mock serious tone. "I will" she had replied defiantly though her heart had fluttered yet she had to keep up with the act for the sake of her wounded pride. "Ahaan!" he had raised his eyebrows as she tried her best to set herself free "Leave me" she had scowled. "Get ready" he had instructed her "I won't..." she had negated the command immediately "Don't force me Prachi" he had warned her irked at her insolence. "You can't make me..." she had wanted to elucidate on her rights as a an independent human being when she had felt her lips captured within his once again this time the force and intensity was such that she feared she might just black out. She had held on to him for support as she felt herself weaken go limp against him his sensuous mouth working wonders and for once she had let him discover her anew. He had released her after what seemed an eternity and only when he had found her short of breath letting her pant while she stared at him in awe. "Next time you even try to threaten me I'll have you there and then" he had narrowed his slate eyes boring his piercing gaze in her face making her understand he meant each and every word he had uttered. Letting go of her he had sauntered away from her outraged form before turning around on an impulse "Fifteen minutes" he reminded her hotly before slamming the door shut. Prachi had felt like setting the lehenga on fire if that indeed could be possible. Nonetheless she knew he was serious about him dressing her himself he was very much capable of doing that to her. She was furious with him for stepping on her raw nerve each time and herself for letting him get away with it. His influence on her was impossible to shun and she feared he might just go ahead with his threats and make her his in every way which was not acceptable to her at the moment.
They did not share a legal relationship and she was certainly not like the many he had had in his bed before her. She had gone ahead and tried her best to appear ravishing not that she needed to work much in that aspect. As promised he was beside her in exactly fifteen minutes while she perfected her lip gloss he stood beside her one look at her and she knew he had fallen flat for her. His eyes had gleamed as he studied her in accurate detail making her shift her weight on her feet uncomfortably. Even in haste his choice seemed divine the lehenga fitted her like a glove accentuating her lithe body highlighting the curves his eyes had started from her golden kohlapuris to her milky midriff and finally up her blouse to her kiss swollen lips. Her face was like a full moon against a black sky glowing even in unhappiness her large hazel eyes rimmed with kohl and done up in a softer shade of the scarlet with gold. Taking her dupatta he had pinned it to her hair while she gazed at him in the mirror consternation dripping from her eyes however she refrained from questioning him lest she be rewarded with another one of his empowering kisses.
Finishing with the task he had led her to the lounge downstairs where all the family members were gathered as clueless as herself. What was unmissable was though a pundit preparing for some sort of occassion and that was when the reality had struck her. He was marrying her that quite explained the attire and the finery, it seemed Kaka had an inkling he was the only one adorning a smile while Sukriti gawked at them that too in her track suit and flip flops. Raghu stood solemnly beside the pundit discussing the items needed and finally Prachi's eyes had sought out Baba amidst the small crowd... had Milind really called him to attend their wedding, she couldn't be sure. All this while Milind had held her hand tightly lest she try to take off again. "Start pundit ji" he had told the elderly man who had broken in a chant almost immediately. Prachi's mind had stopped thinking at that point the only fact that remained illuminated in bright bold letters was that it was her wedding with the man she loved. She sat silently by his side her eyes surprisingly dry and focused on the leaping flames of the holy fire afore her, he hadn't asked her consent, given her time to think this was too brutal in her opinion. But then had she not wanted it to come to this why apprehend his actions when they mirrored her own desires. It was over as soon as it had started she vaguely remembered them taking their vows around the fire, him clasping the lock of the mangalsutr around her neck and filling her hair parting with vermillion after that she had passed out most conveniently landing in her new husband's arms.
She had awoken to a deep silence and blotted shadows rubbing her temple she awoke wearily her vision blurred the room appeared empty. She scanned it to observe a silhouette she had been mistaken. There he was nursing a drink in his left hand looking at her his figure a ghoulish outline on the sofa. She had switched the lamp open to see him clearly, putting the tumbler to his lips he took a careless swig of it. "Dear darling wife finally you awaken" he had drawled the obtrusive sarcasm evident. So it hadn't been a dream after all it had happened at some definite point in time one which appeared rather whimsical now she had thought blindly staring at him with evocative eyes. Unlocking his feet he stood up and neared her placing himself beside her she had watched his steps firmly planted and confident of their victory and a part of her had broken down then. "I hope you'r happy with the designation Mrs Prachi Milind Mishra" he had told her cynically. " I couldn't bear all that bullshit you threw at me this morning and then running away.... you honestly thought I'd let you go this easy... did you?" He had placed the tumbler to his lips again finishing the contents in it before throwing it on the carpet where it had landed noiselessly. "Why?" she had questioned "Why this way.. you could've told me" she had chided him softly and he had shot her a bashful look.
"How dare you ask me for explanations when you yourself haven't given me any" he had derided her harshly. The lashing had hit the bulls eye she had looked at him in horror had he known she had thought her face going a stark pale. "I kept waiting for you to accept you never had amnesia but you didn't... kept charging me for infidelity when you are no less of a counterfeit yourself" his tone was accusing eyes fixated on her. His clenched fists enabled Prachi to realize how hard it had been to know the truth and yet be silent on the facts. She had looked at him in disbelief he had known all along then why had he not questioned her earlier a single tear had left her eye vanishing in the depths of the silken folds. She knew she had wronged but it had not been for any ill intention all she had wanted was an escape from the prison she had spent the past fifteen years of her life in. She alone had known the burden of her guilt true she had a temporary wave of amnesia after the accident but it had worn off soon. After his reconcile with Sukriti she had remembered everything with vivid clarity Sukriti's condition had enabled her to ruminate on her own life before she had met Milind. In helping her get over her past she had regained hers, memories from her previous life assailed her one where she had been forced to live and work as a servant in her uncle's house. Her aunt was an unforgiving creature who treated her like a slave when she had turned eighteen she was forced to work as a waitress in one of Milind's hotels. Her aunt and uncle had pulled away their hands from her expenses at a very young age she initially worked in boutiques and libraries but one day she had applied as a waitress in Milind's hotel. The pay was promising and the hours weren't tedious she had been chosen after an interview little had she realized it would turn out to be a promising chapter in her life. It was there that she had discovered that he was a gem of a person masking his true nature to fool the world but she had seen right through him.
Their first encounter had been at his private suite where she had been sent to entertain him, it had been dark and he had been expecting one of the strippers from a nearby club. She had been petrified when he had asked her to denude herself and had broken down begging him to let her go as he had mistaken her for another. He had not touched her rather had let her stay in his room since it was late in the night and had promised to drop her to her home first thing in the morning. She had seen him go drunk and then finally fall asleep on his master bed cursing his mother she couldn't sleep even a wink and as soon as day had dawned she had crept out of the suite running away. Word of them being together spread out and her tarnished image had caused trouble for her she was forced to consent marrying the shop owner around the corner twice her age. Precisely at the auspicious moment he had denied to tie the knot with her highlighting her so called sin to the guests gathered for the wedding. Unable to bear it all Prachi had fled from the venue and had ended up in front of his car. "I am sorry I never told you the truth.... but I couldn't lose you" she had consented to her mistake crying inconsolably. "Why the farce Prachi you could've told me" he had apprehended her still unhappy. "Would you have let me stay then Milind, be a part of your family?" she had questioned him through red repentant eyes. "I couldn't go back to that hell and so I sought refuge here I only tried my best to make you happy Milind" she had covered her face in her palms tears running down her cheeks as she wept making Milind's heart melt. "You knew what sort of a life I had lived Prachi then why accuse me of infidelity... that too when you very well know I can't do it now" he had inquired of her pulling her hands away wiping the tears with the back of his hand. "I was jealous of them" she had confided in him truthfully "I can't see you with anyone other than me" she had further enlightened him making his anger dissipate in a matter of moments. "Why did you never let me explain Prachi..." he had gathered her in his arms then placing soft kisses on her cheeks "Let it be Milind.... I have come to understand you were always true to me... I was too afraid... too blinded by jealousy to see the plain truth" she had confessed her feelings to him from the very depths of her heart.
"Make me your's Milind before I shatter" she had cried burying her face in his shoulder and had pulled her closer to him. "You can't till I'm here with you" he had assured her kissing her cheeks and puffy eyes assiduously . "Don't you want to know who that girl was Prachi" he had offered an explanation "No Milind... I trust you and want to start our journey together based on complete faith in you" he had complied to her wishes making her lay on the bed beside him. "I'm sorry I hurt you so" he had unpinned her dupatta freeing her of it's captivity taking off her jewellery and clothes next. She had in answer cupped his face in her palms and planted light kisses on his nose, cheeks and lastly the full warm lips. "I love you Milind" she had whispered "I always have ever since I saw you" and he had raised his head completing his task to find an infinite serenity etched in her eyes. "How?" he had wanted to know still perplexed "I knew you were a tormented soul when that night I was forced to entertain you but you refused to use me. You kept ranting about your mother and had held my hand I couldn't resit letting you kiss me then.... that was the moment I fell in love with you" tears had trailed down her temples which he had flicked away with his fleshy thumbs. "That was you..." he had murmured astounded closing in on her bare form "No wonder when I touched you after the accident I felt as if I had known you... always" he had enlightened her.. "Couldn't ask you to leave even after knowing about your whereabouts... I had fallen so badly for you then" he had told her his eyes thick with a deep blackness that exposed his soul to her. Her eyes had glazed again when he had shaken his head "No... no tears from now on... just you and me.. and our happiness" he had promised her as her hands lifted his kurta off him.
He had found her mouth then kissing her with such passion and hunger that she had felt herself meshing in him. The solid of his body enveloped her so snugly, so comfortably she had experienced eternal bliss responding to his masterly kisses with pent up ardor of her own. He had kissed her with such longing she had found it hard to keep herself from screaming his name out his lips trailing tempting kisses down the entire length of her body and she had arched as the ache had engulfed her completely. He had retreated in similar fashion the kisses slower more deliberate most tender as he neared her quivering lips her eyes had begged him to own her in every sense. Their desires had elevated as his hands slid down her bosom and waist down her midriff to her hips raising her up gently. Her arms had hooked around him caressing his naked velvety back with her soft fingers. He had moaned then as the need to be one consumed him whole his mouth busy pacifying hers. They had parted then and he had watched her beauteous face for consent "I need you so bad Prachi" he had murmured and she had gazed long and deep at him her eyes mirroring his wants. "I want you too" she had whispered raising her head up to meet his mouth the amor had set their souls on an invisible fire as their bodies discovered each other. She had not let go of him while his firm grip on her hips had allowed them to traverse a path of scintillating exploration. Moving in perfect rhythm their bodies and breaths had fallen in sync she had arched beneath him holding him close to her as the pleasure fused them together like a million fireworks set alight. Their souls had been freed that night encountering the passion, love and profound knowledge that they were destined to be together forever. He had embraced her to him skin to skin she could feel his heart beat against her own.
"Will you ever leave me Prachi?" he had questioned her softly and she had raised her face from his arm to meet his moist eyes. It was the first time she had seen him so nakedly vulnerable "Do you think one can leave life?" she had questioned him kissing his chin. "I won't ever" she had promised closing her arms around his broad chest. "Say you'll always stay... that you'll forgive me for my temper that I cannot hold and you I cannot lose... because I love you Prachi" he had sussurused a single tear falling down his eye . Prachi's heart had flipped then he had confessed he loved her the three words she had longed to hear had finally been spoken by him her own eyes had turned misty. Combing his curls lovingly with her slender fingers she had softly kissed his closed eyes."I'll always stay with you I promise" she had smiled as he had opened his eyes again. "Say you are mine" he had asked her "I am your's for now and forever" and with that she had felt his lips close in on hers again smiling before they kissed her taking her on a second journey to ecstasy.
The next morning had been a pleasant one just the revelation of him being with her had made Prachi's heart float with happiness. She had awoken to find him watching her "Good morning" she had kissed him as he stretched out a languid hand to pull her to him cocooning her in his arms. "Good morning sweetheart" he had murmured back placing soft kisses on her exposed neck. "This is how I want every morning to be... with you in my arms" he had told her smiling in satisfaction while she had kissed his bare arms "This is how it will be Milind... always" she had smiled when he had turned her to face him. "Want to have a bath?" he had asked her naughtily propping his elbow on the pillow looking at her with nothing but love. "Fine I'll take mine you can rest till then" she had suggested when he had shaken his head in the negative. "We are going to have a bath... together" he had clarified and she had blushed "No" she had giggled. "You very well know you can't deny me anything" he had smiled wickedly while she had pouted "That's unfair" she had complained and he had laughed in mirth. "Everything's fair in love darling" he had reminded her removing the thin sheet that covered her making the blush on her cheeks deepen as he studied her in broad daylight that illuminated the room before covering her with his robust form altogether. They had showered together an hour later with Prachi blushing so profusely he wondered if he had married a beet root instead of a woman. "Prachi stop that or I'll just have to eat you" he had exclaimed standing under the faucet as the water drenched him to the core. "Why?" she had asked shyly water running down her body freely making him go insane with desire. "You drive me nuts you know that" he had told her and she had hugged him in answer her skin flaring with fire that burnt their souls the gushing water unable to quell their thirst for each other. When they had finally found time to dress and go down to the dining area it was almost afternoon.
Raghu who had been helping Kaka with the kitchen work had coughed purposely to see Milind descend the stairs which had earned him a glare from his master. Prachi's cheeks had immediately flared in recognition her lips smiling as her eyes met Milind's making Kaka smile to see them both happy and content with each other. Laying the food on the table Prachi had gone to Baba's room and had touched his feet in reverence he had blessed her for blissful married life hoping that this union would prove to be the best thing to happen to Milind. Kaka had explained to him the chain of events that had taken place and had ended in Milind's decision to marry Prachi. To Mishraji Prachi was always his daughter in law and he had been more than happy to witness his son's wedding he couldn't believe his ears when Milind had asked him to come down to the lounge the previous day. Somewhere in his heart the hope that he might one day be forgiven for his negligence towards his children had rekindled. Prachi had led him to the dining table and had seated him beside Milind and for once Milind had not objected to him being there. Lunch was a joyous occasion as Milind and Prachi stole glances at each other across the table.The rest of the day was gone in a flash, that night after a scintillating union with Milind Prachi had gazed at his face thoughtfully "Anything wrong?" he had inquired her concern evident from his tone. "I just wish we could get Sameera back somehow I don't trust her with Saket" Prachi had shared her worry with Milind and he had smiled she was so genuinely caring it made his heart go warm with overflowing love for her. "There's a time for everything Prachi" he had assured her pressing her thumb against her turgid lips watching her intently . "Hmm" she had mused her eyes locking with his "As you wish" she had resigned immediately as he pulled her to him clasping her to his broad chest rolling her beneath him. "As my wish..... can you guess what my wish is now?" he had asked her mischievously. "Yes I can" she had smiled lowering his face to her own letting her fingers run wild in his mane as her lips met his in a blissful unison.
Epilogue.
"Sameera here's your bottle now don't eat Maami's saree baby" Sukriti had lifted her two year old daughter from Prachi's lap patting her on the back while she hugged her child's small figure to her bosom. Prachi had seen the duo leave for Sukriti's bedroom upstairs her sad eyes trailing them. Milind who sat watching tv on the sofa near her had observed the wave of disappointment that had washed over her countenance her eyes had glazed slightly but she had lowered them to the magazine kept beside her and started flicking it aimlessly. Even after a year of marriage Prachi still had not been able to conceive and that hurt her like hell, in her opinion she was an incomplete woman. Although Milind had tried his best to pacify her explaining to her repeatedly that he would always love her no matter what yet there was this emptiness that had seeped in her being. Milind had sighed as he noticed she had been staring at the same page since the last ten minutes and was irked to see it stained by blotches of salt water. "Prachi" he had called to her and in her haste she had looked up at him through tear filled eyes not remembering to wipe them away. Switching off the news update he had been watching Milind had picked her in his arms as she nestled in his strong hold he had carried her to their bedroom placing her on the massive bed. She had wiped her face clean expecting him to chide her since he hated to see her cry and told her repeatedly not to do so. It pained him to think that she held herself responsible for not being able to provide him with an offspring. "Prachi I said no tears right" he had murmured softly holding her in his arms settling beside her and she had found it impossible to hold her grief at bay. Her body heaved as she cried desperately soaking his kurta with her fresh tears "How do I make you understand Prachi this is not in our hands" he had hoped to talk some sense in her this time. "I'm so sorry Milind....I can't.... give you a child" she had hiccuped still holding him tight.
"Prachi that's it tomorrow we're going to some doctor who can make you understand that it is simply destiny at play and its not our fault at all that you are not pregnant yet." He had pulled her apart wiping away her tears and making her lie beside him enveloping her in his arms hearing her sobs subside and finally listened to her breathe in slumber. He had been holding the visit to the gynecologist off for long but he realized it was time they made the trip if not for the baby atleast for her mind's peace. Kissing her softly closing his tired eyes he too had drifted off to sleep.The next afternoon after Sukriti had returned from school Prachi had handed Sameera to her and had left for Milind's office where he awaited her to join him. Once at Dr Sharma's clinic both had undergone their exam as he had expected Prachi had been quite apprehensive of it all her heart thumped so hard Milind could hear it from where he sat beside her on the leather chair. He had held her soft hand in his large one squeezing it gently and she had looked at him gratefully. Dr Sharma had advised them to collect the reports the next day and then if required they could start with the necessary treatment. Even after reaching home Prachi had felt too dazed to do anything properly her mind full with wild thoughts what if she was barren would she not be able to give Milind the one thing he had always wished for.... his own family....... the sole thought was enough to rip her apart. In the past one year she had lived and breathed him gone was the Prachi that was known to the world the one that existed now was his in every sense of the word.
She started her day watching him beside her the rest of it passed taking care of his family and his needs and nights were dedicated to pleasuring each other with time their love had grown, its roots implanted firmly in the very depths of their souls. Life in short was beautiful and she might have remained immersed in her fantasy had her eyes not been opened to the reality. Trouble had started a month back when Sameera had entered their lives.It had been a Sunday and Prachi Milind and Sukriti had been out in the garden enjoying the day Baba had retired to his room after having lunch with the trio. Over the year Milind's wrath for him had lessened to a considerable extent. He still could not believe he had actually called his father to attend his wedding, probably because somewhere deep down he knew his father had suffered at Ratti's hands in equal context, Prachi had made him see his father in a new light and it was because of her too that he had stood blatantly in Mishra ji's room that morning. "I'm getting married to Prachi this afernoon, she would want you to come" he had informed him stiffly and had left as abruptly as he had come. Moreover Sukriti had begged him to forgive their father a day before his sudden marriage. She had overheard Prachi and him quarrel in the kitchen about him attending the table during meal times Sukriti had realized her brother was enraged at her father for not taking good care of her. She understood what had happened to her had been her folly too and no one was to be blamed completely. She had found her family after long and did not wish to lose it again due to petty misunderstandings. Milind had given the matter much thought earlier but had not been able to find a soft corner for his father in his heart yet Sukriti's tears had won him over and he had promised to give Baba one more chance.
Milind Prachi and Sukriti had spent the evening in the lawns with Milind pushing Sukriti on the tyre swing . She had to leave after some time to complete her homework but Milind and Prachi stayed behind enjoying each other's company and the natural view around them. As evening settled they had stood up to leave when they saw a police car enter their vicinity Milind had sauntered off to meet the policemen and the brunette along with a baby, the woman Prachi had identified as the one she had seen at Milind's office a year back. After their first night together neither had mentioned the other women in Milind's life neither the past nor the present and Prachi had stopped thinking in regards to the brunette she trusted Milind completely and had not considered it important to be enlightened on her designation in her husband's life. Ushering them inside the well lit drawing room Milind had asked Raghu to bring some refreshments "Congrats Mr Mishra your efforts have borne fruit Saket is finally under custody and we plan on keeping him behind bars for a good amount of time." The Inspector had informed him shaking hands with him while the brunette had handed a year old baby girl to him. "Here she is " she had smiled and Milind had grasped the little bundle in elation as she gazed at him with inquisitive eyes. "Thanks Aarti if it hadn't been for you I could never have been able to prove what a scumbag that Saket was" Milind had thanked Aarti his eyes twinkling with jubilation. Prachi who watched this from afar had been overcome with shame the woman she had suspecting as her husband's girl friend was actually an a accomplice to help bring Saket to justice and unite Sameera with her family. She had bitten her lip in remorse and had returned to her room unable to look Milind in the eye she stood facing the lawns beside the window shedding tears of repentance when he had entered to find her stand alone.
"I guess you know who that brunette is now" he had whispered clasping her to him as she rested her head on his chest. "I'm so sorry Milind" she had managed still not looking at him when he had gently lifted her face to his own and planted a soft kiss on her now wet lips. "I just wanted Sukriti to have her daughter back.. that's it. Aarti is head of Crime branch in Mumbaii and fortunately a school friend the reason we were close she's one of my few best friends. Married and has two children. The day you saw us at the hotel was when we decided to hold a secret meeting with Inspector Khan in one of the private suites. Saket had an illegal drug business and was also into smuggling narcotics across the border the police and I were both after him so I decided to join hands with them in order to get Saket out in the open I had to help them by letting him get hold of a few of my projects." Prachi had looked at him stunned he had sacrificed not only his life also his hard earned money for Sukriti's happiness he was such a wonderful human being. "That evening when you had come in my room I had been talking to Saket he threatened to hurt Sukriti again if I didn't let him have half of my property" he had expounded. "Why didn't you tell me before? Before I suspected you... now I feel terrible" she had questioned through teary eyes. "I thought you'd understand me... you'r the only one who ever had" he had answered in a broken voice holding her closer still. "Won't you punish me?" she had queried quietly and he had laughed softly "I don't need to... on the contrary it is you who punish me with your tears each day.... do I not keep you happy Prachi?" he had looked at her sadly when she had clasped his hands in her own. "Don't say this Milind don't say this.... all I ever asked God was for you to love me.. I breathe because of you your love is my strength each day all that keeps me going is the knowledge of the fact that I'll sleep in your arms and wake up beside you..... I cannot live without you" she had hiccuped then kissing his large hands with love. "Do you think you can forgive this beast of your's?" he had smiled kissing her forehead with ardor and she had nodded with closed eyes resting her face against his broad chest as it heaved in happiness. "Beast or not you're mine.... all mine" she had whispered as he cupped her face guiding her lips to his.
They had returned to the lounge where Aarti sat playing with Sameera she stood up to meet Prachi and had made her sit beside her on the upholstered sofa. "Sameera say hi to your maami" she had coaxed the little girl who sucked her tiny thumb watching Prachi with large black eyes. She resembled Sukriti right from her straight black hair to the small nose, apple face and lively eyes. Prachi had held out her hands and Aarti had placed Sameera in them producing her milk bottle from her bag she had handed it to Prachi. "You can feed her I'm sure she'll like it" Aarti had smiled Inspector Khan had left by then he was on duty and had come over to Mishra mansion to escort Aarti and Sameera to Milind, one of his innumerous duties which he had performed diligently leaving promptly afterwards. Prachi had held the bottle to Sameera's lips and she had gurgled in happiness intaking the contents hungrily one of her small hands rested on Prachi's as if to ensure that the bottle would remain there while she filled her little tummy. Prachi had gazed at the honey coloured creature in her arms and had fondled her lovingly she seemed to have formed an instant connection with Prachi as her lips smiled in satisfaction. "Sameera" she had breathed gently and the child had immediately looked at her with anticipation Prachi noticed she had Milind's smile the interlude was interrupted when Milind had brought Sukriti and Baba down to the lounge. "Bhaiyya what is it you want me to see" she had asked excitedly since Milind had her blindfolded. Sameera had finished her bottle and Milind had taken her from Prachi "Well Suki I promised you something.... it's time I fulfilled it" he had grinned taking Sukriti's hands and placing Sameera in her hold.
Sukriti had gasped in disbelief she had tugged off her blindfold to see her daughter look back at her befuddled, there were so many new faces and yet all wore the same expression. Her mouth had found her fingers now as she sucked them puzzled to the core, Sukriti had touched her in amazement. Her eyes her cheeks, nose and finally mouth. "Sameera" she had whispered hugging her close so tight that Milind feared she would choke the child. And then she had kissed her fervently tears of newfound happiness gushing through her eyes. "Oh thank you bhaiyya thank you so much" she had cried as he hugged the two of them smiling, his eyes moist. "See Baba.." she had run to her father "Bhaiyya brought Sameera for me" and Mishraji had kissed her flushed forehead it felt as if she had discovered heaven on earth. "My baby.... Sameera you remember Mama" she had asked the little child who was by now enjoying the scenario and had smiled which Sukriti had considered a yes. "See bhabhi she remembers me" she had told Prachi who could not help but weep in happiness the mother daughter reunion was such a wonderful sight. It was quite some time before Sukriti had understood that Sameera would now be staying with her forever since Saket was jailed and his parents were only too happy to wash their hands off their unwanted grand daughter. But since she was still a minor Milind and Prachi had been awarded Sameera's legal guardianship by court till Sukriti turned eighteen. Saket it seemed would remain behind bars for a long time and by the time he got back Milind had hoped to instill confidence and courage in Sukriti to defend Sameera from her father. Ofcourse Milind would take care of both of them till Sukriti would have found her soulmate. He did intend her to lead a happy life with someone who would care for her and treasure her for the wonderful girl she was.
Watching Sameera with Sukriti had stirred Prachi's maternal sentiments she longed to have a baby of her own. Sometimes she wondered why she still hadn't conceived but Milind had always waived off her fears citing it as God's will though ever since Sameera's arrival the desire to become a mother too had made Prachi restless. Milind had observed the marked difference in her behaviour and had inquired for the cause one night when she had confided her wishes to him. Now they awaited the test results the night was a tough one for Prachi she could hardly sleep and Milind had been kept awake by her unsteady breathing partly due to fear and partly due to anticipation. The next day they had visited the doctor again who had happily informed them that there was nothing wrong with either of them. It was only that they had been making love mostly on Prachi's off days when her ovulation was the lowest. A detailed conversation with the kind doctor had helped them sort matters much to Prachi's relief who had feared the worst. That night as she lay beside Milind she had thanked him for being so loving and understanding and in return he had pulled her atop him gazing at her fondly. "Even if we didn't stand a chance Prachi I would've never left you....you know that right" he had confirmed and she had nodded in agreement laying her head on his chest hearing his heart beating beneath her. She had planted soft kisses on it then "How and when did you fall in love with me Milind?" she had asked him that was the one question that had often entered her mind but she had not voiced it till that night. "Well how isn't quite clear yet " he had chuckled only to receive a playful smack on his arm "that night when you were praying infront of the idols crying I had heard you tell them you had no amnesia but that you could not tell me because you were afraid I might let you go. You were so angry then holding them responsible for making me what I was demanding my happiness begging them for it to lie in you. You promised them that if anything happened to me or that if they distanced you from me you would die that instant and then you had passed out still chanting my name" Prachi had gazed at him with questioning eyes as he smoothed her hair pushing it away from her face. "I knew then Prachi that you were the one I had always searched for, the one who would love me for what I was" he had smiled pressing his finger to her lips and she had kissed it immediately. "I'll always love you Milind no matter what" she had risen from above him and come to lay beside him. "I know" he had whispered kissing her tenderly and as the fervor rose they had conjoined their bodies and souls in a blissful unison.
A year later
"Maami look at Mihir..... he took my dolly" Sameera had complained to Prachi and she had shaken her head in acknowledgment. "Darling he's two months old how can he take your dolly you must have dropped it" Sukriti had tried to appease her stubborn daughter. As Sameera grew older the family had realized she had taken completely after Milind hot headed, reserved and extremely generous in nature. Milind and she had bonded well and it was only he who knew how to handle her.It was early evening nearly time for him to return home. Sameera had been acting cranky since morning and Sukriti hoped Milind would be able to pacify her wild daughter. Prachi had technically taken over her responsibility since Sukriti still attended school and looking after Sameera was no easy task it was only in the evenings and at night that Sukriti spent time with Sameera. "I will tell Milind mama" she had wailed aloud when she saw him step out of the car "Mama...mama" she had flown up to him and he had filled her in his arms swinging her on his back giving her a piggy ride. "How are my beautiful ladies doing" he had winked at Prachi making her blush and had hugged Sukriti who tried her best to make her monkey of a daughter get off his back. "Perfect!" Prachi had mouthed and he had closed in to kiss her tenderly on her forehead. "I missed you" he had whispered and she had smiled shyly "Even after calling me thrice" she had whispered back and he had grinned "Can't get enough of you."
Their sweet nothings were interrupted by Sameera's chanting . "Ice cream... I want icecream" she had shrieked shrilly in Milind's ear and he had winced. "Sukriti get this monkey off me" he had pretended to throw Sameera off which had increased the pressure on her larynx. With one herculean pull Sukriti had managed to unclasp Sameera's little arms from around Milind's neck and he had gently lowered her to the ground. "You wash up first Sameera then we'll eat ice cream" Milind had instructed her and she had flashed him a broad grin kissing his hand she had run off inside with Sukriti chasing her. "They're both little girls" Prachi had smiled looking at Milind fondly. "And how's my girl?" Milind had enclosed her in his arms "Incomplete without you" she had murmured smiling as his lips met hers. "Tonight" he had promised biting her lower lip tenderly and she had sighed in content leaning in on him as they walked back to the house where Baba sat playing with Mihir. Prachi had gone to the kitchen to make a cup of tea for him Milind had stopped drinking black coffee after his marriage to Prachi something Kaka had thanked Prachi for. He simply loathed the amount of coffee Milind consumed each day also the drink itself. Milind had joined Baba on the couch "How's your grandson doing?" he had asked smiling warmly as Mihir flailed his tiny arms opening his drowsy eyes to catch a glimpse of his Papa beside him. "Keeps sleeping.... wonder what Prachi feeds him" Mishraji had chuckled "The child is drugged perennially" Prachi had smiled as Baba had caught her watching them. "Drugged with love his mother sure knows how to administer that one" he had laughed a care free laugh taking his son in his hands.
After their trip to their gynecologist both Prachi and Milind had increased their nocturnal activities resulting in her being pregnant shortly afterwards. "See you were afraid for nothing" Milind had exclaimed kissing her in jubilation smiling ear to ear the day she had told him the news. "Thankyou Milind" she had remarked kissing him back warmly "You have completed me today" was all that she could say. Milind had doted on her for the next nine months and so had the rest of the family making her cry in happiness at times. The pregnancy had been a smooth one and so had the labour and Mihir had entered their lives exactly nine months later. Milind's heart had swelled with an unnamed emotion as he held his son in his arms for the first time. He looked so much like him it was a dream come true for him and when he had held both Prachi and him in his arms he had felt his world being complete. "You'r tea" Prachi had brought him back from his reverie and he had handed Mihir back to Baba. With Mihir's birth had ended the silent war between father and son being a father himself Milind could fairly comprehend what his father must go through each day to see his son distant and reproachful of him. The first time Baba had seen Mihir was when he was two days old he had stood near Prachi as she sat on the bed "Why don't you hold him Papa?" she had offered yet Mishraji had stood silent. "It's ok" he had smiled sadly afraid that Milind might not like him holding his son. Milind who had been standing in the doorway watched the father in law and daughter in law converse both oblivious of his presence nearby.
"Papa he is your grandson... Milind won't mind you holding him" she had urged close to tears how was she ever going to piece the family together. "Child I don't want him to be upset he's been through enough at my expense its a miracle he allows me to be around you.. let it be" he had tried to pacify her when she had started crying. "When will this end Papa... I can't see you both this way you both love each other so much but are still unable to confess it. Do you think Milind hates you? ... He doesn't Baba he doesn't.. he loves you very much please give him a chance" she had pleaded to her father in law and Milind could take it no more. He had sauntered in the room Mishraji had been visibly perturbed to see him there and had decided to leave when Milind had held his hand "Won't you hold my son baba?" he had whispered his eyes bloodshot in an attempt to hold back tears that glistened within them. "I will" Baba had consented immediately embracing him and they had wept tears for the time they had lost. From that day on Baba had never been shunned by Milind and Prachi's family had finally been whole. That night Milind had entered the room to find Prachi feed their son she watched him lovingly as he suckled her tracing the curls that fringed his little forehead. He couldn't help but smile to watch the two most precious people in his life lost in their own world. His foot steps though had caused Prachi to look up at him and smile warmly while the little one remained engrossed in his exercise gorging himself on milk. "Baba was right he does seem drugged" Milind had laughed watching his son's eyes droop and finally close. Prachi had lifted him off her lap and handed him to his father with time she had come to realize both the boys in her life were insatiable one in love and the other both in love and food and she had learnt to adjust to their needs.
Milind had held the baby close to his shoulder allowing him time to burp and had then placed him in his crib at the foot of the bed joining an exhausted Prachi in a short while. The marathon feeding sessions wore her out at times and she longed to be engulfed in Milind's hold with his heartbeat lulling her to sleep. She had leaned against the pillows massaging her aching shoulders when he had held her hands in his own. "I'll do it" he had murmured lifting her night gown off her it was the first time since Mihir's birth that Milind had touched her that way and she had moaned longingly. He understood she desired him but had refrained from taking her keeping her health in view. Now that she was over with her post partum period she craved him even more and had found it hard to avoid her any longer. His thumbs pressed in her milky flesh in circular motion while his fingers kneaded her shoulder plates he was a master at this art and pretty soon Prachi had felt her ache subside. He had turned her to face him taking her lips in his own kissing her passionately while her fingers ran over his taut chest and finally his bearded face holding it close to her. Sparks had flown as his lips travelled down her lips to her throat down still to her collar bones and beyond. Prachi had removed his kurta exposing his bare form to her and she had pressed herself to him as his arms imprisoned her in a soothing yet seductive embrace. She had looked at him to find him watch her intently "I never told you how much I love you.. have I?" he had asked his breathe short as her fingers worked on his back driving him insane with desire. "Do you?" she had teased and in answer he had dipped his head to press his lips to hers in an enchanting kiss explaining to her exactly how much he loved her. His hands had run the entire length of her nubile body igniting it with his charismatic touch and she had moaned softly whispering his name like a prayer. Their bodies had intertwined in an amorous amalgamation at the end of which he had kissed her dewy forehead "I love you so very much" he had confessed and she had wrapped his naked arm around her. "I love you more with each passing moment" she had answered kissing his full lips to prove her point, there still was a whole lifetime together they had thought settling in each other's arms as sleep pervaded them.
"Sameera here's your bottle now don't eat Maami's saree baby" Sukriti had lifted her two year old daughter from Prachi's lap patting her on the back while she hugged her child's small figure to her bosom. Prachi had seen the duo leave for Sukriti's bedroom upstairs her sad eyes trailing them. Milind who sat watching tv on the sofa near her had observed the wave of disappointment that had washed over her countenance her eyes had glazed slightly but she had lowered them to the magazine kept beside her and started flicking it aimlessly. Even after a year of marriage Prachi still had not been able to conceive and that hurt her like hell, in her opinion she was an incomplete woman. Although Milind had tried his best to pacify her explaining to her repeatedly that he would always love her no matter what yet there was this emptiness that had seeped in her being. Milind had sighed as he noticed she had been staring at the same page since the last ten minutes and was irked to see it stained by blotches of salt water. "Prachi" he had called to her and in her haste she had looked up at him through tear filled eyes not remembering to wipe them away. Switching off the news update he had been watching Milind had picked her in his arms as she nestled in his strong hold he had carried her to their bedroom placing her on the massive bed. She had wiped her face clean expecting him to chide her since he hated to see her cry and told her repeatedly not to do so. It pained him to think that she held herself responsible for not being able to provide him with an offspring. "Prachi I said no tears right" he had murmured softly holding her in his arms settling beside her and she had found it impossible to hold her grief at bay. Her body heaved as she cried desperately soaking his kurta with her fresh tears "How do I make you understand Prachi this is not in our hands" he had hoped to talk some sense in her this time. "I'm so sorry Milind....I can't.... give you a child" she had hiccuped still holding him tight.
"Prachi that's it tomorrow we're going to some doctor who can make you understand that it is simply destiny at play and its not our fault at all that you are not pregnant yet." He had pulled her apart wiping away her tears and making her lie beside him enveloping her in his arms hearing her sobs subside and finally listened to her breathe in slumber. He had been holding the visit to the gynecologist off for long but he realized it was time they made the trip if not for the baby atleast for her mind's peace. Kissing her softly closing his tired eyes he too had drifted off to sleep.The next afternoon after Sukriti had returned from school Prachi had handed Sameera to her and had left for Milind's office where he awaited her to join him. Once at Dr Sharma's clinic both had undergone their exam as he had expected Prachi had been quite apprehensive of it all her heart thumped so hard Milind could hear it from where he sat beside her on the leather chair. He had held her soft hand in his large one squeezing it gently and she had looked at him gratefully. Dr Sharma had advised them to collect the reports the next day and then if required they could start with the necessary treatment. Even after reaching home Prachi had felt too dazed to do anything properly her mind full with wild thoughts what if she was barren would she not be able to give Milind the one thing he had always wished for.... his own family....... the sole thought was enough to rip her apart. In the past one year she had lived and breathed him gone was the Prachi that was known to the world the one that existed now was his in every sense of the word.
She started her day watching him beside her the rest of it passed taking care of his family and his needs and nights were dedicated to pleasuring each other with time their love had grown, its roots implanted firmly in the very depths of their souls. Life in short was beautiful and she might have remained immersed in her fantasy had her eyes not been opened to the reality. Trouble had started a month back when Sameera had entered their lives.It had been a Sunday and Prachi Milind and Sukriti had been out in the garden enjoying the day Baba had retired to his room after having lunch with the trio. Over the year Milind's wrath for him had lessened to a considerable extent. He still could not believe he had actually called his father to attend his wedding, probably because somewhere deep down he knew his father had suffered at Ratti's hands in equal context, Prachi had made him see his father in a new light and it was because of her too that he had stood blatantly in Mishra ji's room that morning. "I'm getting married to Prachi this afernoon, she would want you to come" he had informed him stiffly and had left as abruptly as he had come. Moreover Sukriti had begged him to forgive their father a day before his sudden marriage. She had overheard Prachi and him quarrel in the kitchen about him attending the table during meal times Sukriti had realized her brother was enraged at her father for not taking good care of her. She understood what had happened to her had been her folly too and no one was to be blamed completely. She had found her family after long and did not wish to lose it again due to petty misunderstandings. Milind had given the matter much thought earlier but had not been able to find a soft corner for his father in his heart yet Sukriti's tears had won him over and he had promised to give Baba one more chance.
Milind Prachi and Sukriti had spent the evening in the lawns with Milind pushing Sukriti on the tyre swing . She had to leave after some time to complete her homework but Milind and Prachi stayed behind enjoying each other's company and the natural view around them. As evening settled they had stood up to leave when they saw a police car enter their vicinity Milind had sauntered off to meet the policemen and the brunette along with a baby, the woman Prachi had identified as the one she had seen at Milind's office a year back. After their first night together neither had mentioned the other women in Milind's life neither the past nor the present and Prachi had stopped thinking in regards to the brunette she trusted Milind completely and had not considered it important to be enlightened on her designation in her husband's life. Ushering them inside the well lit drawing room Milind had asked Raghu to bring some refreshments "Congrats Mr Mishra your efforts have borne fruit Saket is finally under custody and we plan on keeping him behind bars for a good amount of time." The Inspector had informed him shaking hands with him while the brunette had handed a year old baby girl to him. "Here she is " she had smiled and Milind had grasped the little bundle in elation as she gazed at him with inquisitive eyes. "Thanks Aarti if it hadn't been for you I could never have been able to prove what a scumbag that Saket was" Milind had thanked Aarti his eyes twinkling with jubilation. Prachi who watched this from afar had been overcome with shame the woman she had suspecting as her husband's girl friend was actually an a accomplice to help bring Saket to justice and unite Sameera with her family. She had bitten her lip in remorse and had returned to her room unable to look Milind in the eye she stood facing the lawns beside the window shedding tears of repentance when he had entered to find her stand alone.
"I guess you know who that brunette is now" he had whispered clasping her to him as she rested her head on his chest. "I'm so sorry Milind" she had managed still not looking at him when he had gently lifted her face to his own and planted a soft kiss on her now wet lips. "I just wanted Sukriti to have her daughter back.. that's it. Aarti is head of Crime branch in Mumbaii and fortunately a school friend the reason we were close she's one of my few best friends. Married and has two children. The day you saw us at the hotel was when we decided to hold a secret meeting with Inspector Khan in one of the private suites. Saket had an illegal drug business and was also into smuggling narcotics across the border the police and I were both after him so I decided to join hands with them in order to get Saket out in the open I had to help them by letting him get hold of a few of my projects." Prachi had looked at him stunned he had sacrificed not only his life also his hard earned money for Sukriti's happiness he was such a wonderful human being. "That evening when you had come in my room I had been talking to Saket he threatened to hurt Sukriti again if I didn't let him have half of my property" he had expounded. "Why didn't you tell me before? Before I suspected you... now I feel terrible" she had questioned through teary eyes. "I thought you'd understand me... you'r the only one who ever had" he had answered in a broken voice holding her closer still. "Won't you punish me?" she had queried quietly and he had laughed softly "I don't need to... on the contrary it is you who punish me with your tears each day.... do I not keep you happy Prachi?" he had looked at her sadly when she had clasped his hands in her own. "Don't say this Milind don't say this.... all I ever asked God was for you to love me.. I breathe because of you your love is my strength each day all that keeps me going is the knowledge of the fact that I'll sleep in your arms and wake up beside you..... I cannot live without you" she had hiccuped then kissing his large hands with love. "Do you think you can forgive this beast of your's?" he had smiled kissing her forehead with ardor and she had nodded with closed eyes resting her face against his broad chest as it heaved in happiness. "Beast or not you're mine.... all mine" she had whispered as he cupped her face guiding her lips to his.
They had returned to the lounge where Aarti sat playing with Sameera she stood up to meet Prachi and had made her sit beside her on the upholstered sofa. "Sameera say hi to your maami" she had coaxed the little girl who sucked her tiny thumb watching Prachi with large black eyes. She resembled Sukriti right from her straight black hair to the small nose, apple face and lively eyes. Prachi had held out her hands and Aarti had placed Sameera in them producing her milk bottle from her bag she had handed it to Prachi. "You can feed her I'm sure she'll like it" Aarti had smiled Inspector Khan had left by then he was on duty and had come over to Mishra mansion to escort Aarti and Sameera to Milind, one of his innumerous duties which he had performed diligently leaving promptly afterwards. Prachi had held the bottle to Sameera's lips and she had gurgled in happiness intaking the contents hungrily one of her small hands rested on Prachi's as if to ensure that the bottle would remain there while she filled her little tummy. Prachi had gazed at the honey coloured creature in her arms and had fondled her lovingly she seemed to have formed an instant connection with Prachi as her lips smiled in satisfaction. "Sameera" she had breathed gently and the child had immediately looked at her with anticipation Prachi noticed she had Milind's smile the interlude was interrupted when Milind had brought Sukriti and Baba down to the lounge. "Bhaiyya what is it you want me to see" she had asked excitedly since Milind had her blindfolded. Sameera had finished her bottle and Milind had taken her from Prachi "Well Suki I promised you something.... it's time I fulfilled it" he had grinned taking Sukriti's hands and placing Sameera in her hold.
Sukriti had gasped in disbelief she had tugged off her blindfold to see her daughter look back at her befuddled, there were so many new faces and yet all wore the same expression. Her mouth had found her fingers now as she sucked them puzzled to the core, Sukriti had touched her in amazement. Her eyes her cheeks, nose and finally mouth. "Sameera" she had whispered hugging her close so tight that Milind feared she would choke the child. And then she had kissed her fervently tears of newfound happiness gushing through her eyes. "Oh thank you bhaiyya thank you so much" she had cried as he hugged the two of them smiling, his eyes moist. "See Baba.." she had run to her father "Bhaiyya brought Sameera for me" and Mishraji had kissed her flushed forehead it felt as if she had discovered heaven on earth. "My baby.... Sameera you remember Mama" she had asked the little child who was by now enjoying the scenario and had smiled which Sukriti had considered a yes. "See bhabhi she remembers me" she had told Prachi who could not help but weep in happiness the mother daughter reunion was such a wonderful sight. It was quite some time before Sukriti had understood that Sameera would now be staying with her forever since Saket was jailed and his parents were only too happy to wash their hands off their unwanted grand daughter. But since she was still a minor Milind and Prachi had been awarded Sameera's legal guardianship by court till Sukriti turned eighteen. Saket it seemed would remain behind bars for a long time and by the time he got back Milind had hoped to instill confidence and courage in Sukriti to defend Sameera from her father. Ofcourse Milind would take care of both of them till Sukriti would have found her soulmate. He did intend her to lead a happy life with someone who would care for her and treasure her for the wonderful girl she was.
Watching Sameera with Sukriti had stirred Prachi's maternal sentiments she longed to have a baby of her own. Sometimes she wondered why she still hadn't conceived but Milind had always waived off her fears citing it as God's will though ever since Sameera's arrival the desire to become a mother too had made Prachi restless. Milind had observed the marked difference in her behaviour and had inquired for the cause one night when she had confided her wishes to him. Now they awaited the test results the night was a tough one for Prachi she could hardly sleep and Milind had been kept awake by her unsteady breathing partly due to fear and partly due to anticipation. The next day they had visited the doctor again who had happily informed them that there was nothing wrong with either of them. It was only that they had been making love mostly on Prachi's off days when her ovulation was the lowest. A detailed conversation with the kind doctor had helped them sort matters much to Prachi's relief who had feared the worst. That night as she lay beside Milind she had thanked him for being so loving and understanding and in return he had pulled her atop him gazing at her fondly. "Even if we didn't stand a chance Prachi I would've never left you....you know that right" he had confirmed and she had nodded in agreement laying her head on his chest hearing his heart beating beneath her. She had planted soft kisses on it then "How and when did you fall in love with me Milind?" she had asked him that was the one question that had often entered her mind but she had not voiced it till that night. "Well how isn't quite clear yet " he had chuckled only to receive a playful smack on his arm "that night when you were praying infront of the idols crying I had heard you tell them you had no amnesia but that you could not tell me because you were afraid I might let you go. You were so angry then holding them responsible for making me what I was demanding my happiness begging them for it to lie in you. You promised them that if anything happened to me or that if they distanced you from me you would die that instant and then you had passed out still chanting my name" Prachi had gazed at him with questioning eyes as he smoothed her hair pushing it away from her face. "I knew then Prachi that you were the one I had always searched for, the one who would love me for what I was" he had smiled pressing his finger to her lips and she had kissed it immediately. "I'll always love you Milind no matter what" she had risen from above him and come to lay beside him. "I know" he had whispered kissing her tenderly and as the fervor rose they had conjoined their bodies and souls in a blissful unison.
A year later
"Maami look at Mihir..... he took my dolly" Sameera had complained to Prachi and she had shaken her head in acknowledgment. "Darling he's two months old how can he take your dolly you must have dropped it" Sukriti had tried to appease her stubborn daughter. As Sameera grew older the family had realized she had taken completely after Milind hot headed, reserved and extremely generous in nature. Milind and she had bonded well and it was only he who knew how to handle her.It was early evening nearly time for him to return home. Sameera had been acting cranky since morning and Sukriti hoped Milind would be able to pacify her wild daughter. Prachi had technically taken over her responsibility since Sukriti still attended school and looking after Sameera was no easy task it was only in the evenings and at night that Sukriti spent time with Sameera. "I will tell Milind mama" she had wailed aloud when she saw him step out of the car "Mama...mama" she had flown up to him and he had filled her in his arms swinging her on his back giving her a piggy ride. "How are my beautiful ladies doing" he had winked at Prachi making her blush and had hugged Sukriti who tried her best to make her monkey of a daughter get off his back. "Perfect!" Prachi had mouthed and he had closed in to kiss her tenderly on her forehead. "I missed you" he had whispered and she had smiled shyly "Even after calling me thrice" she had whispered back and he had grinned "Can't get enough of you."
Their sweet nothings were interrupted by Sameera's chanting . "Ice cream... I want icecream" she had shrieked shrilly in Milind's ear and he had winced. "Sukriti get this monkey off me" he had pretended to throw Sameera off which had increased the pressure on her larynx. With one herculean pull Sukriti had managed to unclasp Sameera's little arms from around Milind's neck and he had gently lowered her to the ground. "You wash up first Sameera then we'll eat ice cream" Milind had instructed her and she had flashed him a broad grin kissing his hand she had run off inside with Sukriti chasing her. "They're both little girls" Prachi had smiled looking at Milind fondly. "And how's my girl?" Milind had enclosed her in his arms "Incomplete without you" she had murmured smiling as his lips met hers. "Tonight" he had promised biting her lower lip tenderly and she had sighed in content leaning in on him as they walked back to the house where Baba sat playing with Mihir. Prachi had gone to the kitchen to make a cup of tea for him Milind had stopped drinking black coffee after his marriage to Prachi something Kaka had thanked Prachi for. He simply loathed the amount of coffee Milind consumed each day also the drink itself. Milind had joined Baba on the couch "How's your grandson doing?" he had asked smiling warmly as Mihir flailed his tiny arms opening his drowsy eyes to catch a glimpse of his Papa beside him. "Keeps sleeping.... wonder what Prachi feeds him" Mishraji had chuckled "The child is drugged perennially" Prachi had smiled as Baba had caught her watching them. "Drugged with love his mother sure knows how to administer that one" he had laughed a care free laugh taking his son in his hands.
After their trip to their gynecologist both Prachi and Milind had increased their nocturnal activities resulting in her being pregnant shortly afterwards. "See you were afraid for nothing" Milind had exclaimed kissing her in jubilation smiling ear to ear the day she had told him the news. "Thankyou Milind" she had remarked kissing him back warmly "You have completed me today" was all that she could say. Milind had doted on her for the next nine months and so had the rest of the family making her cry in happiness at times. The pregnancy had been a smooth one and so had the labour and Mihir had entered their lives exactly nine months later. Milind's heart had swelled with an unnamed emotion as he held his son in his arms for the first time. He looked so much like him it was a dream come true for him and when he had held both Prachi and him in his arms he had felt his world being complete. "You'r tea" Prachi had brought him back from his reverie and he had handed Mihir back to Baba. With Mihir's birth had ended the silent war between father and son being a father himself Milind could fairly comprehend what his father must go through each day to see his son distant and reproachful of him. The first time Baba had seen Mihir was when he was two days old he had stood near Prachi as she sat on the bed "Why don't you hold him Papa?" she had offered yet Mishraji had stood silent. "It's ok" he had smiled sadly afraid that Milind might not like him holding his son. Milind who had been standing in the doorway watched the father in law and daughter in law converse both oblivious of his presence nearby.
"Papa he is your grandson... Milind won't mind you holding him" she had urged close to tears how was she ever going to piece the family together. "Child I don't want him to be upset he's been through enough at my expense its a miracle he allows me to be around you.. let it be" he had tried to pacify her when she had started crying. "When will this end Papa... I can't see you both this way you both love each other so much but are still unable to confess it. Do you think Milind hates you? ... He doesn't Baba he doesn't.. he loves you very much please give him a chance" she had pleaded to her father in law and Milind could take it no more. He had sauntered in the room Mishraji had been visibly perturbed to see him there and had decided to leave when Milind had held his hand "Won't you hold my son baba?" he had whispered his eyes bloodshot in an attempt to hold back tears that glistened within them. "I will" Baba had consented immediately embracing him and they had wept tears for the time they had lost. From that day on Baba had never been shunned by Milind and Prachi's family had finally been whole. That night Milind had entered the room to find Prachi feed their son she watched him lovingly as he suckled her tracing the curls that fringed his little forehead. He couldn't help but smile to watch the two most precious people in his life lost in their own world. His foot steps though had caused Prachi to look up at him and smile warmly while the little one remained engrossed in his exercise gorging himself on milk. "Baba was right he does seem drugged" Milind had laughed watching his son's eyes droop and finally close. Prachi had lifted him off her lap and handed him to his father with time she had come to realize both the boys in her life were insatiable one in love and the other both in love and food and she had learnt to adjust to their needs.
Milind had held the baby close to his shoulder allowing him time to burp and had then placed him in his crib at the foot of the bed joining an exhausted Prachi in a short while. The marathon feeding sessions wore her out at times and she longed to be engulfed in Milind's hold with his heartbeat lulling her to sleep. She had leaned against the pillows massaging her aching shoulders when he had held her hands in his own. "I'll do it" he had murmured lifting her night gown off her it was the first time since Mihir's birth that Milind had touched her that way and she had moaned longingly. He understood she desired him but had refrained from taking her keeping her health in view. Now that she was over with her post partum period she craved him even more and had found it hard to avoid her any longer. His thumbs pressed in her milky flesh in circular motion while his fingers kneaded her shoulder plates he was a master at this art and pretty soon Prachi had felt her ache subside. He had turned her to face him taking her lips in his own kissing her passionately while her fingers ran over his taut chest and finally his bearded face holding it close to her. Sparks had flown as his lips travelled down her lips to her throat down still to her collar bones and beyond. Prachi had removed his kurta exposing his bare form to her and she had pressed herself to him as his arms imprisoned her in a soothing yet seductive embrace. She had looked at him to find him watch her intently "I never told you how much I love you.. have I?" he had asked his breathe short as her fingers worked on his back driving him insane with desire. "Do you?" she had teased and in answer he had dipped his head to press his lips to hers in an enchanting kiss explaining to her exactly how much he loved her. His hands had run the entire length of her nubile body igniting it with his charismatic touch and she had moaned softly whispering his name like a prayer. Their bodies had intertwined in an amorous amalgamation at the end of which he had kissed her dewy forehead "I love you so very much" he had confessed and she had wrapped his naked arm around her. "I love you more with each passing moment" she had answered kissing his full lips to prove her point, there still was a whole lifetime together they had thought settling in each other's arms as sleep pervaded them.
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