Chapter 12

Anshuman was still in a daze as he walked into his condo later that night. He was aching from the sudden run and fall, not to mention the scuffle with that woman. He didn’t know who those people were. But they had blindfolded him and held him up for an hour interrogating him. He had to give them references the main being, his friend Amandeep Singh Sehgal and the latter…God bless him came to his rescue by contacting his old Army colleagues who intervened. Mission…? Fuck… what was happening…? What kind of mission did those people have in Passion…? He had to visit again but for now, he had to stop his limbs from trembling. The adrenaline had flown away and fear now set in. Why did he feel everything he was facing had something to do with Meera… Oh dear God… where was his sister headed…? She didn’t even know what hit her… his poor naïve sister. Did Simrat mean all this would transpire? How did she know and how on earth was Manpreet involved…? Was Simrat scared to be associated with him? Nothing made sense…

 Sudden spikes in anxiety left him panting as he lay on the cold times in his living room and sleep had gone away hours ago. He suddenly stood up after an hour. He didn’t know what came over him, he walked outside his house and along the beach towards the clove… he just wanted to be close to her… Simrat. Something about her always calmed him and now that he knew she lived so close he couldn’t help himself. It was about 3 AM… and he walked outside along the roaring sea, the black infinity reminding him about his life right now. Suddenly his life felt like that black hole where nothing could escape the spacetime area. Could he just time travel to a decade ago…?

There was not a soul there right now as he walked towards the clove. As he neared it he saw someone walk outside the house through the gate and shut it. The person was covered with something like a shawl and he hid quickly at the side of the clove. Darkness favored him and he couldn’t be seen. Was it a thief…?  he wondered… no.. a thief wouldn’t be so calm in escaping. The person had an awkward gait…

Suddenly breeze increased its violent streak and the shawl blew off the person’s head and Anshuman didn’t need light to tell him it was Simrat. Where on earth was she going at this ungodly hour..? She was hugging herself protectively and there was something strange in the way she walked… he couldn’t make out in the dark though. What kind of hotel called their employees so late at night…? His protective radar was on red alert. She was rushing along the shore and he followed her from a safe distance. In the noise dominated by the sea, his footsteps were camouflaged. She moved away from the beach and began to walk along the empty silent streets, dimly lit by minimally present streetlights. What he loved best about Goa was he didn’t find a single homeless destitute lying drunk or sleeping on the pavement. At least where he lived and where all he had been so far. He brought his focus back to the intriguing woman.

He didn’t know why he didn’t stop her but just continued to tread the same path. They walked for about twenty minutes and she reached the auto stand and quickly got into one of the only two standing autos. Being close to the outstation bus stop he was fortunate to find another auto and getting into that one he instructed the driver to follow the first auto. After about half an hour of the back-breaking ride, they reached a place which he got to know was Benaulim town.

 He got off a little away in the dark and kept following her with queries hovering on his mind. She moved towards the thicket and as it cleared she walked into the gate of a three-storied white-colored building. The security guard knew her and allowed her access to the inner sanctum where she disappeared. Anshuman stood across the premises hidden in the dark and just as he strained to see her disappearing silhouette he read the glow signboard. “ Annie Gomes home for women”. He was still irked by her bizarre gait when he saw another printed board next to it with a long list of honorary doctors and as he read the visible boards he realized it was a home for the terminally ill and destitute women. Why on earth did Simrat come here…that too at the dead of the night…? If he stood for a longer time, he would call for attention not to mention the nocturnal creepy-crawlies…

As he rode back to Varca, his mystery woman, he realized was just the tip of an iceberg… What were you hiding Simrat…? And the biggest question of all how was her life linked with his…? The more he tried to analyze the more the astute businessman in him was puzzled… He had his job cut out… he had to visit Passion again.

 But if things had to pan out the way humans planned, his sister would have been alive today. Around 8 AM that morning as he freshened after an hour of sleep still groggy, he got a call from Nirvi. If she called so early that meant she had something important to talk about.

Smiling he answered it. “…Hello Nirvika… how are you…?”

“…All good Anshuman… um… there is something I had to tell you…”

“…What is it…? Everyone all right there…?”

“…Yes yes… we are all doing good… but worried about you there…”

His friends were so caring… he was blessed. He chuckled. “…I am good Nirvika…so what’s it…?”

“…Um… Anshuman… you have to visit Mumbai for a day or two… immediately…”

He suddenly sat up. “…Why… what is it…?”

“…Um… do you remember Rewa Nagarajan from the SOP (Special Operatives on Prowl), a unit of Crime branch…? She was the one instrumental in resolving our case… She had found out about your …. Um… sister…”

Anshuman sighed and nodded. “…Yea… I remember…so… what happened…?”

“…she is visiting Mumbai for a training program for police officers and wanted to share some intel with us… she has requested your presence as well…”

“…Me…? what have I got to do…?”

“…Anshuman we know why you are in Goa… so… maybe Rewa’s information may help you… we are all with you Anshuman…”

“…so when do I have to come…?” his head was reeling.

“…Today… take the earliest flight… there is one in two hours… if you leave now, you can reach on time… shall I book it for you…?”

Anshuman inhaled deeply his emotions scattering all over the place. “… all right Nirvika… I shall be there…”

After they hung up he quickly packed his bare essentials and called for a cab. Before going he called Manpreet’s grandmother and spoke with the boy. Though disappointed Manpreet promised to practice all that they had learned yesterday. Once Anshuman boarded the flight to Mumbai, he got busy with his long-awaited online search…Kader Shah. the entire hour he browsed through the available articles. Kader was a management graduate student from the prestigious NMIMS in Mumbai. He had built his hospitality conglomerate from scratch in Pune, with minimal seed capital, and had now ventured in two other places in the country. Passion was his third acquisition. The astute businessman in Anshuman couldn’t help but appreciate the upward growth of the charismatic man. Passion was a loss-making night club and Anshuman had seen for himself how Kader had turned it around already. Looked like the man had the Midas touch.

He alighted the airplane and hired a cab to reach Vedshastra the pharmaceutical company specializing in generic drugs and research for rare genetic disorders. It belonged to his friend and Nirvika’s brother Keshav Goyal… actually to be precise it belonged to his wife Avanti. Anshuman had invested last year into the Vedshastra nursing home which was growing in leaps and bounds. He had plans to invest further if need be.

As the cab breezed along the Bandra-Kurla complex he wondered what kind of intel had the crime branch received that Rewa was going beyond her means to convey it to them… The seeds of his fate were already sown… he had been fighting with his destiny for a decade now. It was time he made Destiny a matter of choice….

©priyagole. No part of the story can be copied or shared anywhere without the consent of the writer.

Chapter 11

Anshuman was mystified with what had happened even as he sipped his coffee. His morning encounter with his one-night fling had left a sour taste in his mouth which didn’t get rid of by an extra serving of sugar in his coffee. Though she had warmed up to him…melted in his arms she was still obscure. He was now sure Simrat knew something… there were so many unanswered questions in his mind which threatened to explode. There were 2 avenues of information for him and if he played his cards right then he could squeeze out information from both. One was Simrat and the other Kader who had lived here for ages and had contacts he could use.

Anshuman hoped, Kader probably hadn’t realized his folly as yet… and decided to visit Passion later in the evening without prior announcement. There was some event he had read last evening on their bulletin board… about some pop singer performing in the club and the tickets were limited given the pandemic restrictions. He wasn’t interested in the gig but just wanted to look around and see if he could catch Zulfikar chacha or his whereabouts. He had been a successful businessman and had taken his family business to new heights within a short period. He couldn’t have done it without foresight and planning. In hindsight, he realized he had been undaunted, fearless, and confident. He just had to do that now. He had to keep his deep-rooted emotions for Meera under wraps and try finding out information with a logical mind.

He knew Meera wouldn’t return but he owed it to her to uncover the mystery surrounding her last days and most of all he owed it to himself.

As he settled before his laptop trying to conduct some searches on the news from a decade ago… as he had always been doing, his doorbell buzzed. Startled since he didn’t know anyone here, he walked to his door. He was amazed to see Manpreet with his grandmother who was huffing and panting. He invited them in and offered the lady water. Manpreet directly walked to the balcony and settled himself on the rocking chair with his sketchbook as if he owned the place. His grandmother spoke. “…I couldn’t handle the boy… his mother had left for work while he was still asleep… and he brought the house down… but… I am glad in a way…”

It probably was a day full of surprises as Anshuman looked in bewilderment. The woman who till a couple of days ago was hostile towards him was suddenly courteous. She continued. “…His mother had refrained him from doing everything a child of his age does… I hadn’t restricted even my daughters the way she does her son… the boy was troubled always… his father not being there, it was tough you see… but then in two days… he changed… he is…he is alive… I am thankful… his mother doesn’t see reason… but then I saw her talking to you today morning and I know you ruffled her feathers… she normally doesn’t get disturbed like that… so son, if you are fine with it… can he stay here for a while…? Call me on my number… he has memorized it… I will come to get him…”

“…Oh Don’t worry aunty… I will drop him and he can stay all the time he wants to… what time does his mother return…?”

“…She doesn’t have any fixed time… sometimes she doesn’t come back at night… but most days she arrives late… poor girl works hard for Manpreet… for us…” The woman stood up and walked slowly towards the door.

Once she left. Anshuman got back to the balcony with an additional chair and joined Manpreet. He saw the boy sketch yet another portrait of his. “…hey buddy… why is it me all the time…?”

Manpreet replied without looking up from his work. “…I like you…”. He didn’t stutter.

After about half an hour Anshuman fed him the light lunch his housekeeper had prepared that morning and then started to teach him to read. He had learned a couple of techniques using phonics and decided to experiment with Manpreet. To his utmost wonder, the boy picked up the skills like fish to water and they practiced for the next couple of hours. He even helped the boy solve simple maths problems and Manpreet appeared to be a pro. Anshuman wondered what ailed the boy who didn’t seem like a slow learner at all. He decided to speak with Simrat once she had calmed down. As they relaxed after a meal of kadhi chawal, Anshuman casually asked him. “…Buddy who taught you to draw so well…?”

“…No one…” he curtly replied.

“..Oh I thought your mother did…”

Manpreet shook his head. “…maa isn’t at home ever… only Nani loves me…”

“…It isn’t like that buddy… your mom loves you too in fact a lot more than all of us do… but she has to work right…?”

“…But she will leave too one day… like dddda…daddy…” Manpreet’s face crumbled.

“…Why do you say that Manpreet…? Did something happen…? And where is your daddy…?” the moment he asked the question Anshuman kicked himself.

Manpreet stilled and looked at Anshuman. His expressions broke his heart. At that moment the boy looked so vulnerable, his eyes wide and the cleft on his chin pronounced… Anshuman realized the cleft brought out the cuteness in the child. And then Manpreet frowned in annoyance for the first time since he had met the boy, the bushy eyebrows struggling to touch each other in the center, his forehead wrinkled. “…Daddy died… many years ago… aaaa…I haven’t sssseen him… Nanu also ddddied ttttwo years aaaago….Maa was hurt so many times… it scares me…”

Now that caught his attention. Simrat was a widow, but she also had been hurt. “…When did she get hurt…?”

“…So many times… she rushes to the bathroom comes out only after I sleep…  I have acted sometimes lllllike aaaa…I am asssleep… then I saw her cry…I am ssscared Anshuman… what if shshshe… dies too…?”

He held the boy close. Somehow he felt they were bonded in grief. “…Don’t worry buddy… nothing will happen to your mother… I promise…”

He had to have a serious talk with Simrat he decided. Later that evening before he left for Passion, he dropped Manpreet back to his house with a promise to collect him the next morning.

He entered the Passion premises and as expected there was a huge hustle bustle with people in masks trying their luck with the now unavailable tickets. The singer had belonged to the Bombay Rockers band and now had branched out independently. But given the popularity of the original band, he was on-demand too. Anshuman crossed the crowds and walked behind the building towards the shacks and it was empty given that it was still early by partying standards. He settled himself in the corner most seat away from anyone’s direct sight of the vision and watched the sea for a while. He saw little kids running on the sand building castles or just digging their feet. Water sports were not allowed at this end of the beach but he could hear the occasional buzz of the motors. He hoped tourism returned to pre-covid levels soon so that these guys could make a living.

Just then he saw movement in the bushes at his side. Since he sat in the dark, no one could see him but he saw the unmistakable silhouette of… oh goodness… it was a hand holding a pistol. Something got into him and instead of freezing, he crouched slowly towards the bush on the other side. He saw a sleek figure in black overalls bent and looking ahead aiming the pistol. He looked up to see the target was Kader… who was chatting with a couple of guests who had assembled at the far end of the shack. He had his back towards the bushes and though there was a great distance, there was a possibility of him getting shot. Adrenaline surged through him and without giving a thought he rushed ahead and grabbed the person. The shot rang but missed and hit the asbestos roof making a loud sound and ricocheting and hitting the only light bulb that hung close to them. He was now totally plunged in darkness. The commotion caused a furor and the person in his arms struggled to move. Finally, Anshuman held him down and straddled him with his legs on either side. He took out his mobile phone and switched on the torch. He realized the person had given up the fight. Fuck… the guy was injured in his hand and it was bleeding. He bent and removed the mask covering the face and along with it, thick hair came down in waves… Oh God, it was a woman, although her face was still covered with the special clothing she wore and she looked downward. Anshuman jerked up and the woman suddenly held his hand and rushed out from the bush covering.

Anshuman didn’t even know which direction she was dragging him but he ran for the next fifteen minutes or so, along with on autopilot and they reached a corner most shack away from Passion. She pushed him to the ground and he was immediately surrounded by a few men holding guns trained on him. The lights came alive and the woman had disappeared.

A tall man stood before him then bent and patted him throughout as if checking for hidden guns while he was stunned to silence. He was a businessman not a fighter for god’s sake. The man stood up to his complete height and spoke. “…Who the hell are you man…? Which organization do you work for…?” The man had taken his wallet and tossed it to another man close by. That guy took out his Driving license. “…The name is Anshuman Khanna…” he read it aloud.

The tall man continued in a tone that gave Anshuman the chills. “…bloody hell… you are a  civilian… and you just messed up an important mission for the country… you idiot…”

©priyagole. No part of the story can be copied or shared anywhere without the consent of the writer.

Chapter 10

Anshuman paced the confines of his condo like a hungry lion. He was sure he hadn’t mentioned Meera’s name to Kader. He consciously avoided taking her name because of the pangs of despair it always invoked in his heart. Back in Hissar, no one was allowed to take her name and once in a while when cousins got together, someone would just whisper a prayer for her. There was no chance it would slip out before strangers. How on earth did Kader know about Meera. Was he hiding something…? Was he just playing around with Anshuman…? But the million-dollar question remained… why…? Why after a decade…? By any chance was it just a mistake on his part…or did Kader know Meera…? Now that he looked back, Anshuman was certain he had seen Kader affected last evening on seeing Meera’s picture… His gut feeling now told him, Kader was concealing something and he had to find out…

First Manpreet was in danger then…Angie… here of all the places and she turned out to be Manpreet’s mom… and then Kader, out of the blue now under the scanner. He was going crazy.

He couldn’t sleep and only waited for morning to arrive. He had to see Manpreet and how he was doing. He wanted to speak with Angie too… He had felt the strong mutual attraction from 4 years ago. But why did she run…? As far as he knew she wasn’t committed to any man anymore. He sighed. When he had decided to move to Goa he didn’t even know what he was seeking… it was just something that told him to visit the place where his sister breathed her last. Most of all he wanted a break from his life which he had just been dragging for the past decade. He wished for solitude…where he could just mourn his sister in peace, where no one knew him. But just a fortnight here and it had been a hell of a roller-coaster. He had bonded with super-talented kiddo who reminded him every time of his deceased sister and the boy’s mother turned out to be the woman who had given him wet dreams ever since they first met 4 years ago. He still had the note she had left him that morning. He hadn’t known at that time whether she had meant for him to give up on her or his sister… if it was the latter, that meant Angie knew him and Meera as well… at least something about them. Now that he thought of it, she had come up to him that night in the club, as of looking for him.

There were too many questions ricocheting in different directions but he knew eventually they would converge in someplace with common answers. He knew he had to make a start and that was with Angie. He started his run earlier than usual to calm his racing heart and slowed down as he jogged towards the clove. He halted as he reached the house and looked up. As expected, only the roar of the waves colliding as they rushed to the shore broke the early morning silence. The chirping of birds in the clove added to the cacophony and he longed to meet Manpreet… and Angie.  He stood with hands on his hips trying to figure out if he could see anything. He thought he saw the curtain on the first-floor move a bit…

He walked away back towards the rock but Manpreet wasn’t visible. Worry engulfed him… was the guy OK…? He didn’t have any contact number and wondered if he should give Angie a visit at her workplace when the front gate creaked open under the weight of the creepers encroaching on it. Angie walked out in a t-shirt and shorts. She was without make-up and the morning breeze blew her hair in all directions. How he ached to hold the strands and tuck them behind her ears.  She walked towards him and stood before him. “Let’s walk…” She spoke softly and moved briskly towards the rock. He followed her and as they reached the rock cave she halted. She presented an erect stance and a serious facial expression as she spoke. “…Why Anshuman… why do you keep following us…?”

“…Angie… I mean Simrat… I just…Manpreet…”

“…STAY AWAY FROM MY SON…” She raised her voice and panted as she glared at him.

“…Simrat… what the hell… what did I do…? Manpreet and I are friends… he needs…”

“…I am his mother and I know better than anyone else… what he needs… so just stay away all right…?”

“…Don’t do that Simrat…he has problems and I can help him out… he is super talented….”

“…Don’t you think I know that Anshuman…? What we don’t need is some stranger out of nowhere interfering in our matters…”

“…Simrat… we aren’t strangers… are we…?” He purred as he moved closer. Her fresh mint scent, probably from the soap she had used to freshen up wafted through his nostrils.

She looked away but he could see the pulse at her neck throbbing. “…Anshuman… please let it go… let the past go… it was just a one night stand… just forget it happened…OK…? And please stay away from us…” She blinked away tears and he realized there was more to it.

“…Simrat… I remember that night as clearly as you do… I know there was a connection… deeper… that ran deeper than the surface emotions…”

“…there… there was nothing of the sorts…” Simrat looked away.

He held her shoulders and turned her to face him. “…Why are you doing this Simrat…? I know you are struggling with Manpreet… I just… I am not interfering… Manpreet and I met by chance… the boy is lonely and gets bullied… his confidence is low…he has trouble with his studies….most of which he cant do with the crappy internet here…And his drawing… he is a genius artist… Simrat….I just wanted to be his friend and help him…. That’s all…”

Simrat blinked back tears and bit her lower quivering lip and he knew he had hit the bull’s eye. He pulled her towards him and hugged her. “Relax Simrat… just let me help…I promise I won’t ask anything…please…”

He felt her stiffen and move away. “…My answer doesn’t change Anshuman… I can’t allow that… don’t make my life difficult by visiting us again… If you care then leave us alone…”

“…I am not going anywhere till you give me a reason Simrat…” he stood on his ground.

She didn’t reply but he continued. “…I need answers Simrat…this last decade has been a living hell for me… and now I get to know everything was a façade… Manpreet was the only silver lining…”

“….Manpreet is not any ‘silver lining’ for you…Anshuman…”

“…Simrat… don’t do this… please…”

“…getting close to Manpreet will only put the two of you in danger…mortal danger…” She spoke with eyes pleading to understand and before he could reply she stormed out of there.

Anshuman only looked on. What the hell was this now…? He…in danger…? The layers of the metaphorical onion were getting peeled only to reveal newer layers…

©priyagole. No part of the story can be copied or shared anywhere without the consent of the writer.

Chapter 9

Angie alias Simrat straightened the bedsheet to free it from the wrinkles. She looked at Manpreet’s sleeping form and her heart broke. His tears had dried on his cheeks. He had been furious yesterday at being dragged away from his ‘new friend’. He had barely stuttered before her but yesterday his speech was filled with blocks and facial contortions as he struggled to express himself. He had thrown a tantrum and flailed his legs as he had come home. He wanted to go back to his ‘friend’. No amount of cajoling had helped and she was at her wit’s end. Man[reet had never given her any trouble from his birth till date but this kind of tantrum was new to her. She was stern at her workplace and got things done easily but this little charmer couldn’t be handled. She had eventually slapped his back and he had retreated to the bedroom shocked at her use of corporal punishment…for the first time in his life. Ever since she had been miserable and unable to rest at a place. Manpreet had cried himself to sleep and her sleep was miles away, as she twisted and turned in her bed yet again staring at the dark expanse of the sky outside her window. Usually, the roar of the waves calmed her soul but today it did nothing to reduce the pace at which her heart galloped away…

 She had died multiple deaths today, when she had got the call from the police… she had reached the hotel early after finishing her errand and the call had come. Fortunately, Inspector D’Lama knew her well and he had recognized Manpreet. If something were to happen to Manpreet then she wouldn’t have been able to survive.

All these years in Goa she had struggled to stay in hiding without being promiscuous and all that was going for a toss with that guy Anshuman butting in. She never thought someone she had left behind four years ago… would come back like this. It wasn’t meant to be anything beyond general chat but she was carried away by the intriguing man with a trusting face and despondence reflecting in his eyes. It was only a one-night stand that happened by chance… but she hadn’t forgotten him. She could never be with any other man after him. He hadn’t looked at her like she was a piece of meat up for grabs like usually men did with her kind of get up that night. His eyes had shown with passion unfolding in their depths. She had seen honesty in those orbs. Something innately soulful had connected them… probably they shared similar grieves. For that night she had thrown caution to the wind and had decided to go with her heart which urged her to trust the man. It was her first and last one-night stand.

The last decade of her life had been spent in disparity and unfulfilled promises as she worked hard to achieve her goals, for the sake of her loved ones. She had lost so much a decade ago that she feared losing anymore… She only had her mom and Manpreet… the little boy, her life revolved around him.

Their life wasn’t ordinary. If only people knew about her, the façade called life that she had led so far… it would put Manpreet in danger. She was close to achieving her target for which she had given up the last 10 years of her life.

She wished to rush to Anshuman and tell him everything about her. She was thrilled to see him again but caution had reared its ugly head as she was reminded of what she was doing in Goa. She had built a conniving web of deceit around herself just to catch her prey and Anshuman was in danger of falling into it. No, she couldn’t let that happen. He was a wonderful guy; she had known it instantly that night years ago. She had gone with another purpose totally but hadn’t expected the fierce attraction to the man with chocolate boy looks. She had been burnt in love a decade ago…mercilessly that it had robbed her of her faith in men or to the extent the species could go to ruthlessly. Her abdomen still bore the scars from that night years ago… and she had sworn off men for good. But Anshuman had challenged her beliefs that night and she had gone with the flow. He had kissed those scars and she had been a goner. Even now as she touched her abdomen, she remembered the shower of passion that night in that dingy room. She just wished she had met Anshuman under different conditions…

She was a lone soldier fighting an important battle… a battle she couldn’t afford to lose. All that she had worked for in the last decade would go down the drain. And most of all it would endanger the most precious entity in her life, the innocent being who lay murmuring in his dream as he slept. Her Mannu was what made her face life perils and she would give up her life for him in a jiffy. She had managed to safeguard him in this clove for nine years. Only Inspector D’Lama knew about her.

 Her mother had told her everything that had transpired after Manpreet was admonished to bed last evening. She had to be the ruthless mother everyone thought she was for Mannu’s sake. She knew he had a speech problem… but his therapist had said it was psychogenic in nature and he needed to express more. He had been diagnosed with dyslexia a little before the lockdown last year and she couldn’t take him to the learning center. It would expose him to different people around… she wanted him alive even if that meant he wouldn’t be able to read and write well. Her work kept her away from home most of the time and her mother took care of Manpreet. So far it had been just the three of them managing well. But off late Manpreet had started to revolt and after what happened yesterday, she was scared… really scared.

Morning arrived changing the hues and shadow patterns on the walls from the moving trees outside and she still didn’t have a wink of sleep. Standing up she stretched and walked towards the window.

As she looked up through the bedroom window, she saw him. Heart thudding, she went towards the window and drew the curtain peeping through the gap. Anshuman stood in his running shorts, probably waiting for Manpreet. She had seen the lust shine in his eyes yesterday and all she wanted to do in that mall was kiss him to oblivion and have her way with him. But that was not possible.

Any other man in his place she would have investigated him and even thought about the camaraderie they shared. She would have done anything to help Manpreet. However, Manpreet was getting swayed towards this particular man and Anshuman was synonymous with danger.

He was Meera’s brother.

©priyagole. No part of the story can be copied or shared anywhere without the consent of the writer.

Chapter 8

Anshuman stood rooted to his spot his eyes wide and unblinking as he stared at the woman who had raided his dreams more often than not over the last four years. Here was the woman who had ruined him for everyone else and there hadn’t been a straight week where he hadn’t thought about her. And here she stood her unruly curls all over her head, radiating anger and she was Manpreet’s mother…? The thought got him back to the present.  He didn’t know what shocked him more… seeing Angie or the fact that she was Manpreet’s mother.

Angie too hadn’t moved as if the cat bit her tongue but then she recovered fast enough blinking her stunned kohl-laden eyes. She looked pale and Anshuman realized she looked fatigued as hell. Was she working too hard to support her family? He felt for her. Manpreet had said he was 9 years of age that meant she was already a mother when they had their rendezvous in Mumbai. What on earth was she doing in a Godforsaken nightclub in a shady corner of Mumbai…? Was there a husband in the picture at that time… gosh… had he bedded a married woman…? He shuddered at the thought. And what was that about the note she had left behind? He still had it with him…it had plunged him into a chasm of curiosity and he was yet to find an outlet for the same.

The atmosphere crackled up in the tiny office room and Manpreet moved towards Angie with the shopping bag. She sighed and almost snatched the bags from him and handed them to Anshuman. “…I am sorry but we can’t accept this from…strangers…” As she held Manpreet’s hand and ushered him out Anshuman spoke.

“…Angie.. wait… this is a gift… for Manpreet and I am not a stranger… am I…? I mean… I am Manpreet’s friend… aren’t I buddy…?”

“…Manpreet doesn’t need friends…” Angie abruptly replied. “…And henceforth do not get in touch with my son…” She dragged the boy outside followed by Anshuman who was now annoyed at her attitude.

“…Angie, wait… we need to talk…”

She suddenly halted making Anshuman almost crash into her back. “… As I said, there is nothing to talk about… just stay away from my son…” she started to walk again.

“…No, I won’t do that Angie…” making her stop once again near the mall’s exit. She turned around and stood folding her hands and her bright full-length loose t-shirt which flirted with her curves wasn’t helping him one bit as her firm bosom moved up causing a hopeless stir in his loins. He looked away and then back at her face now clearly beautiful sans the heavy war paint he had seen that night years ago. The fact that she still affected his libido after all these years, spoke a lot about their connection. “…look Angie…I… Manpreet is…”

“…Is MY SON… he is my business… my responsibility…” She glared at him staring daggers as she interrupted whatever he was to say. “…And today I almost lost him because of your… stupidity…” She held up her hand as he tried to reason out. “…Look, Mister… um… whoever you are, this is my last warning to you… henceforth if I see you hovering around my place or my son, I will not tolerate it… I shall have a restraining order issued against you…”

Turning around she grabbed Manpreet’s hand and rushed out towards a waiting autorickshaw. Anshuman watched the vehicle speed away till it disappeared out of his sight. What on earth had just happened…? The only living humans who tugged at his heart were related and now they were just torn away from him… He touched his heart as the pangs settled and he sighed. Just then a police constable ran towards him with his phone which they found lying around. He was sure they would have gone through his call records… of course, he had nothing to hide. But as he checked his phone gallery, he saw the rascals had deleted all the pictures. Manpreet’s pictures to be specific. He only had two more pictures, an old picture of Meera and Manpreet’s sketch of his. It was a warning to him to steer clear of the boy. What they didn’t understand was it made him more curious about the little guy and his beautiful mother. There was no father in the picture now… that he was sure.

As he stood looking around taking the place in, he got a call. It was Kader Shah. “…yes Kader…”

“…Hello Anshuman… all OK…? you don’t sound so…”

“…No… nothing… just a little tired. What’s up…?”

“…I have some news for you brother… I don’t know how much it will help you though… why don’t you come over to Passion…? How about 7 PM…?”

“…I will be there Kader…”

“…And one more thing… get a picture of the person whose information you are looking for…”

Anshuman nodded and disconnected the call. Holding the bags of clothes, he had purchased for Manpreet he hailed a cab for his condo. At home, as he kept the bags away, he saw the folded papers on which Manpreet had been sketching. He took them out and straightened the pages. He smiled looking at the topmost page…it was a simple drawing that Manpreet had just started… of him. As he moved the paper, he saw the next finished sketch and he couldn’t help the tears that sprang into his eyes. It was a beautiful sketch of them holding hands together. It showed how much that grasp meant to Manpreet. Tears escaped the confines of his lids as he remembered how the boy refused to budge from his hiding place despite his fears. The embodiment of trust initiated by Manpreet meant so much to him.  He decided, no matter what… he would help the boy. he couldn’t sit on the fence anymore… within a couple of days the boy had etched his mark in his heart and it was irreversible. He would make headway in his argument with Angie… for all her toughness he knew she was a softie inside… he was sure he could convince her. He couldn’t wait for the next morning.

But before that, he had to make that visit to Passion. It was still afternoon and he had a few hours. He used the time to do his research that was long due.

The same evening, he walked into the brightly lit club and walked to the backside shacks as Kader had instructed earlier. He saw a well-dressed Kader seated with an old man with a skull cap and a beard. They both stood as he walked up to them.

Kader shook hands with him and indicated to him to sit while the orderly served them fresh fruit punch. On Kader’s indication, Anshuman showed Meera’s picture to Kader to pass it on to the old man. Kader held the picture up to his eye level and Anshuman saw a strange emotion pass over the man’s face. Kader cleared his throat and passed the phone to the old man who squinted holding his glasses as he looked at the photo. Kader looked back at Anshuman and patted his hand. “…your sister… was a beautiful woman…she looks like a kind-hearted soul too…” Kader’s deep voice was seductively soft and Anshuman even sensed it cracking towards the end of the sentence, But Meera’s picture always evoked a similar response in people. The goodness of the soul reflected in her pictures and her sketches. He nodded and sipped on his drink as they waited for the old man to recall something. Kader continued. “…this is Zukfikar chacha… he was the supervisor in charge of the entire row of shacks belonging to a famous club this side. He retired eight years ago after the club was dismantled and the owner’s sold the property. But he had been there at the timeline you mentioned…”

Zulfikar chacha returned the phone to Anshuman. He spoke with a voice heavy and cracking due to age. “…Look beta, I am not very sure… but about a month back there was a high-level inquiry into the nikahnamas and death certificates in this area with regards to a similar case. It was from very high authority and I had been called as well… but the name wasn’t Hindu…”

Anshuman bent forward in anticipation. “…Actually, she was married to a Muslim and had changed her name to Shifa…Shifa Begum…” the old man was lost in thought but he thought Kader just cringed…or was he just seeing things…? Anshuman had got this information from Crime Branch Mumbai and Amandeep as they had decoded their decade-old case.

The old man shook his head. “…I am sorry but that’s the information I could unearth for them as well… the woman who died was by the name you mentioned…”

Anshuman sighed. “…Actually, she was also pregnant… and…”

The old man sat upright. “…wait a minute beta… there seems to be a mistake… Shifa Begum…her body was found for sure and I remember signing off with the police as they shut the case… but I do not recall anything about a pregnant woman…”

“…What…? My sister wasn’t pregnant…3 months pregnant…?”

Even Kader sat up and was all ears to what Zulfikar chacha had to say.

“…I am sorry beta… but my memory isn’t helping much… the woman who died… I don’t think she was pregnant… didn’t hear anything of the sort from the preliminary investigation on the scene…”

Anshuman bid him adieu and walked out towards the exit with Kader in tow. He rubbed his face at the absurdity of the situation. As they stood at the exit, Anshuman saw young guys and girls without a care in the world thronging the entrance of the club and he couldn’t help but smile at their antics. Kader saw that and patted his shoulder. “…Don’t worry brother if one door closes there is another one that opens up…”

“…I don’t know Kader… off late my luck sucks… whenever it was about my sister…luck always was the traitor… I couldn’t do anything for her when she lived but even now…  a decade after her death… I am helpless… I feel everything is just slipping away…”

“…sincere efforts don’t go in vain brother… keep faith in yourself… you will unearth the mystery behind Meera’s life someday…”

Just then someone called for Kader and he excused himself and left the place. As Anshuman took the route towards his home something troubled him at the back of his mind about the turn of events today evening.

 It was only when he went to bed that night he suddenly sat up and realized, he had never mentioned Meera’s name to Kader. How on earth did the man know…?

©priyagole. No part of the story can be copied or shared anywhere without the consent of the writer.

Chapter 7

Anshuman crouched towards the shop in the now-empty first level…the crowd had as though suddenly disappeared in thin air. He stuck to the railing bending and from the holes in the railing, he could see people assembled on the ground level and there were 4 masked men with guns guarding their escape routes looking around to check for any kind of police intervention. Speaking of, Anshuman wondered where they were. Was this the lousy security in a mall that boasted of major tourist influx…? Fortunately, there didn’t seem to be any bloodshed.. thank God. Nonetheless, he now had greater things to worry about. He was much behind the toy store where he had hidden Manpreet. Did the boy come out of hiding…? What if they catch him…? But suddenly a greater doubt gnawed at him. Why…? Why on earth did they want the frail scrawny little boy…?

He stilled at a point where he could see a little of the shop interiors. He just had to check on Manpreet and assure the boy he was safe. Anshuman was sure the police would be here any moment and he had to buy time till then. But the shop lights were off and from the turning of the wall towards the shop, he saw 3 men in masks covering their heads peeping into the shop. The owner had probably locked the hard glass door before running off. Thank God for little mercies. But poor Manpreet must be scared shit. Anshuman crouched further and saw the trio trying something with a toolbox… Oh God… what if they. And just then the door clicked open and the trio rushed inside. Anshuman’s heart stilled. He had brought Manpreet here first, and he wouldn’t forgive himself if something were to happen to the little boy. As it is guilt ate at him because of Meera… he couldn’t lose another life… He had wanted to use his phone in the washroom earlier but it had fallen off probably in the earlier scuffle with the crowd.

Without bothering about the consequences now, he picked up a security guard’s stick lying in the corner and moved towards the entrance. Just then there was a loud announcement from the outside. Looked like the police finally had graced them with their presence. “LET THE PEOPLE ALL GO… OR LEAVE THE PLACE QUIETLY… DO NOT HARM THE INNOCENTS… YOU WILL BE SURROUNDED IN NEXT THREE MINUTES…”

What the fuck was that…? They were letting these assholes just run away…?

But it probably worked and the three men in the shop sprinted out through some entrance and they were soon joined by their brethren downstairs. Before Anshuman could reach the shop, police and the bomb squad rushed and one of them pushed him out of the way. “…Wait… wait… the boy… is in the shop… let me take him out…” Anshuman screamed and the policemen halted in their tracks. One of them walked towards him with questioning eyes and looked at the shop. Anshuman continued. “…the boy with me… he is hidden in there… please let me get him out… he must be scared…” His voice broke at the very thought. The policemen pretended they didn’t hear him and walked towards the shop pushing him away. Anshuman knew better than to argue. He stood his ground and observed them keenly.

A tall, well-built policeman with greying temples and a stern look on his tanned face, probably spearheading the group, came forward towards the shop from the other side and examined the hard door. He asked in a gruff voice. “…In this the… toy shop …? That’s where those bastards had been a moment ago…hadn’t they…? What were they looking for in that toy shop…?” the policeman looked back and forth. “… Jesus… is there a bomb planted…?”

All blood drained from his face as Anshuman stood rooted to his place in shock while the inspector ran making some arbitrary noises… But he had heard those guys… they were looking for a boy specifically. But before he could say something he saw the bomb squad at the shop’s entrance as the policemen kept a harried owner away. Anshuman rushed towards the shop. “…Please let me get my boy out… he is alone and scared…” But the police pushed him away yet again and the two men from the bomb squad disappeared inside the shop.

The policeman who had spoken to him earlier asked for the child’s name and Anshuman told him along with Manpreet’s description. After about 20 minutes the policeman walked out followed by the two men in the bomb squad complete with their heavy attire and all the instrumentation, he had only seen on TV. The head policeman came up to him. “… a little boy is fitting your description in some godforsaken dollhouse. But he didn’t respond to the name call… Are you sure he is your kid…?” the police looked at him suspiciously. Anshuman nodded. “…Please let me get him out…” “…go ahead but I am watching you, man…”

The policeman he now saw the name, Julio D’Lama watched him hawkeyed as he scampered inside the shop amidst the fallen materials strewn around. The dollhouse was in the farthest corner and he realized and even he could see Manpreet’s reflection in the mirror attached to the rack bang opposite. No wonder those bastards must have seen him too. Cursing himself he cruised through the litter and reached the dollhouse. Not wanting to intimidate the boy further he squatted there and knocked at the dollhouse door. “Manpreet…? Buddy, it’s me… Anshuman… you can come out…”Before he could complete the sentence, the door opened and Manpreet rushed into his arms almost toppling him in the process. The boy sobbed into the crook of his neck even as Anshuman rocked him and rubbed his back. He then lifted him into his arms and walked out of the store.

The inspector stopped them and Anshuman had to put him down. Manpreet hugged Anshuman and dug his head into his belly. Inspector D’Lama spoke softly. “…Little man, are you all right…?” Manpreet still clutching at Anshuman’s mid-section looked slightly at the official and nodded his head, his tear-streaked face, melting hearts all around. D’Lama continued. “…What is your name…?” Anshuman was impressed at the change of tone by the Inspector and his respect for the man increased. He knew his job well. Manpreet looked up at Anshuman who nodded the go-ahead. “…mmmm…Mmman…Pppppreet…ssssinnng …. Ggggil…” Manpreet stuttered away to glory.

“…Is that Manpreet Singh Gill…? Wait…I have heard the name somewhere… what’s your father’s name man…?” The inspector rose to his height and looked at Anshuman who was an inch shorter. “…And who is this man here…?”Anshuman was now a little shaken as reality sank in. “…Inspector, my name is Anshuman Khanna and I have recently moved to Varca… this boy is my neighbor and we had come to visit the mall today… His… grandmother knows he is with me…”

The inspector looked at Anshuman with suspicious eyes. “…look, man, no offense but it’s my duty to check your credentials… and vindicate what you just said…” Anshuman and Manpreet were taken to an office in the mall itself and as they waited, the inspector made a few calls. They were shut in the small room with refreshments and Anshuman arranged for blank papers and pencils for Manpreet. The latter in turn merrily sketched away without a care in the world and that’s what Anshuman wanted. The boy must have been traumatized…

He realized the other policemen had all left and the mall had been swept to check for anything untoward and given the all-clear. An hour later Inspector D’Lama stepped in and spoke. “…the boy’s mother is on her way…and man… she is furious if her voice could be judged over phone…” he chuckled and Manpreet stopped sketching withdrawing into his shell back again. It didn’t go unnoticed by the inspector who raised an eyebrow and shook his head before leaving the room. The door was now kept ajar. A few minutes passed and Anshuman noticed Manpreet fidgeting with the pencil. He pulled the boy close to him and folded the papers neatly. Their shopping bags had been retrieved and Anshuman pushed the papers and stationery into one of them. He held Manpreet’s hands. “…buddy… you don’t have to fear anyone or anything… I am always here for you… alright…? You know my house too…don’t you…? I will meet you every morning at the rock… If you have any problem, you can always come to my place…? Is that OK…?”

“…THAT WON’T BE NECESSARY….” The door opened with a bang startling Manpreet to widen his eyes and Anshuman stilled… hearing a familiar piercing voice. He slowly turned around to look into the angry eyes of a tall pretty woman with Kohl-laden eyes and the unmissable nose stud that had very often invaded his dreams last four years. He stood up even as the woman’s eyes widened, as recognition set in. “…Angie…?”

©priyagole. No part of the story can be copied or shared anywhere without the consent of the writer.

Chapter 6

Unlike yesterday morning today, Manpreet didn’t have the spring in his walk. He had his tight grip on Anshuman’s palms. Just like yesterday, Anshuman first took the boy to his condo and gave him a filling breakfast of oatmeal but there was no sparkle in the boy’s eyes. The boy should have been glad he was visiting his mother who wasn’t home for two nights in a row…. Then what was the matter…? Anshuman refrained from asking though. He had read about stuttering yesterday and it mentioned the symptoms aggravated when the child was stressed or anxious. He didn’t want to subject Manpreet to any more stress.

The hotel as Manpreet led him, was not very far. After about 20 minutes of walking, they reached an area little after the central market. The hotel was a three-storied building completely white in color and not very appealing at all from the exterior. Anshuman’s businessman eyes took it all in and he despised the exteriors immediately. There was a crumbling gate to a dilapidated compound wall that had lost the cement plastering. The name board was hanging precariously bent and on just 2 of the four screws which had seen better days. The name read P NA  E. The middle alphabets had eroded off. The bushes around the building needed upkeep and the trees too needed trimming. He wondered who on earth would visit the hotel which looked more like a haunted house. He wanted to move ahead but Manpreet pulled him back… He saw the boy looked scared out of his wits.

He kneeled before Manpreet and held his sweating palms. “…Buddy… we are in this together, all right…? No one is going to tell you anything… do you trust me…?” Manpreet nodded bobbing his head in quick successions even as his eyes filled. Anshuman stood up and pulled him closer and slowly made his way through the clearing on the ground, inwardly cringing on the bad business acumen of the hotel owners. They reached the reception where a bespectacled woman was furiously typing away. Anshuman looked around and realized though the place was clean the interiors were in dire need of a facelift. The sofa covers in the reception were faded and even torn at the corners. The plaster on the walls had begun to peel off leaving a world map-like structure where ever the residual paint remained. There was just a single framed photo of the Goan physical map. The place looked more like a small-town bank waiting area than a hospitality entity.

Anshuman always believed, if an opportunity didn’t knock on your doors we have to build one…and here these guys seemed hell-bent on breaking the only door. He would have a word with the owner. He wondered if anyone ever visited here and how the owner-managed the running expenditure. Before the entrepreneur in him spread his fangs further, he decided to go ahead with the reason for his visit. He tapped on the reception counter and the bespectacled woman looked up with a scowl at being disturbed. “Hello, ma’am I am looking for a staff of yours… Uh…this little fellow’s mother…” He turned towards Manpreet. “…Buddy what’s her name…?” Manpreet waited a while even as the receptionist arched her eyebrows and sighed.

Manpreet had still held his hand and he spoke softly. “…Ssss…ssssim…rrrat… kkkkaur…Gggg…gil…”

Anshuman turned back to the woman who shook her head and picked up the intercom. “…yeah, it’s Julie… Simrat Kaur Gill is wanted at the reception… her son is here…”

There was a pause and then she nodded and placed the phone back on the receiver. “…Sorry but Simrat is running a major errand and won’t be back before afternoon… you can leave a message…”

“… It’s all right…” Anshuman interrupted. “…I think I will call her…”

“…Oh it’s of no use… Simrat never carries her phone…It must be lying in her locker…” saying the lady got back to hitting the keys dismissing them.

Anshuman looked at the little boy who was now staring at the broken edge of the Formica attached to the reception counter as if he was looking for some inspiration. Probably his life lay in tethers just like that. But not if Anshuman could help it. He wanted to meet the mother no matter what. But instead of waiting for 3 hours in this drab, he got an idea. He Googled the places around and decided to visit the Mall De Goa… which was in Pilerne and it was about an hour away from where they stood. There was some advertisement online about some kind of fair going on there and he decided to make the most out of it for Manpreet. He called the boy’s grandmother to inform her about his change of plans and as expected she wasn’t too happy to hear him. He disconnected before she started her tirade. He hired a cab and they went to the place. It was morning time so the crowd was limited and Manpreet’s face lit up after a long time. There was a flock of pigeons gathered to feed on the jowar strewn around without a care in the world and Manpreet rushed towards them, watching them with intense attention. Strangely it gave Anshuman a huge sense of satisfaction. An inner voice told him not to get attached to the little fellow but his heart wouldn’t have it any other way. He now loved the boy and had a strong urge to save him from all harm. Just like a father… now where did that come from…?

 The mall was decorated with balloons and there was a central stage setting strategically placed given the Covid constraints. Currently, there was no DJ and Anshuman liked it like that. He took the escalator to the first level which had the kid’s area. He brought him a few clothes of his choice and the way Manpreet reveled in the selection process it was a given he didn’t have a choice in buying his clothes. His ill-fitting ones were an eyesore. Anshuman then took him to a play area where there were very few kids and Manpreet though initially hesitant, on Anshuman’s persuasion went for it. The boy had a blast and Anshuman couldn’t help but click pictures. After a while, they went to the food court and Manpreet ate junk food to his heart’s content. He spoke to Anshuman about how he missed his school and especially the art class. The boy had difficulty in reading and writing but could copy down everything with the most beautiful handwriting and his drawing was out of this world. Anshuman realized the boy needed help. He decided to speak to his mother about it and if any financial support was needed, he would provide it for him. God… how much he reminded him of Meera…. He had to get a hold of himself.

Soon it was time to leave the mall to face the reality that awaited them. Anshuman saw the crowd had swelled to twice the size when they had arrived. As the duo moved towards the descending escalator, there was some commotion on the floor and before they could react, everyone was running around. Anshuman saw a crowd rushing towards them to run away… what was going on…? He was sure there would be a stampede and Manpreet would be injured. He held the boy’s hand and rushed towards the nearest toy store. It was a huge one filled with toys and clothes for kids. He moved between the racks. The owner wasn’t seen, probably had gone out to check the commotion. He made Manpreet sit inside a doll house in the extreme corner and drew the curtains to shield him in case anyone looked that side. Manpreet looked terrified but did as told. Anshuman was overwhelmed by the boy’s trust and said. “…Just be here buddy and no matter what happens you aren’t moving unless it’s me who calls you out…Got it…?”  Manpreet nodded and Anshuman rushed outside the store.

There was indeed a terrible commotion and before he could react he got pushed towards the other side. He barely escaped falling and moved towards the men’s washroom that was close by. He had to wait for this phase and when things would quieten he could emerge. Through the cracks between the hinges, he saw children ruthlessly falling and parents struggling to protect them. He entered a cubicle to relive himself and waited. After about 5 minutes he decided to come out… it was then he heard footsteps coming in and he stopped right where he was.

“…So what should we do now… the boy was not here…” a gruff voice spoke.

“… let’s call Boss and tell him…” there was some noise and the earlier guy spoke.

“…hello boss… the boy wasn’t here… we searched the entire place… our guys are still looking… but there is no one…the information must be… no…ok Sorry… I didn’t mean that…ok… Sorry boss…”

The guy paused and spoke to the others. “…Boss has said not to get noticed and just return … come on… calling the others… no police business…”

They shuffled out of the bathroom and it was then Anshuman released the breath he was holding… What on earth was going on…? Those looked like goons… who were they looking for…?

Just as he was to emerge out of his hiding, he heard a shout out. “…Faiz… there is someone in this toy shop… near the doll house… I think we got him….”

What the fuck…? Manpreet…? Anshuman didn’t bother to think anymore as he sprinted out of the washroom.

©priyagole. No part of the story can be copied or shared anywhere without the consent of the writer.

Chapter 5

Anshuman couldn’t wait to go for his run the next day. He didn’t know how correct it was to interfere in someone’s life but he couldn’t hold back anymore. He had to see the boy who had stolen his heart in barely two meetings. For a decade or so he hadn’t known such emotions even existed in him. He ran today against the morning sea breeze, the salty drops hit his face as the waves greeted him while he ran close to the shoreline. The enormous sound of the sea calmed him to the core and rejuvenated him. He had slept fairly well last night albeit for 4 hours. But given his usual, it was a lot.

Lost in the sea-induced stupor he continued his run till he reached the clove. It was just like he had left it last morning. He has been intrigued and couldn’t get much of his online work done. He was invested in a few start-ups and provided them guidance from time to time. Last year he had invested in Vedshastra nursing home in khopoli near Mumbai. It belonged to his friend Keshav Goyal a self-made pharmaceutical honcho. The nursing home was his pet project as well and also Keshav’s sister and now his close friend Nirvika’s workplace. She was a doctor and very good at that. Anshuman’s sharp eye for talent hadn’t been wrong at all. Within few months of starting the nursing home was looking at an expansion. He intended to convert it into a full-fledged hospital soon and was in talks with his other financer friends as well.

 His vast entrepreneurial experience helped in troubleshooting to a great extent and most of all getting work done kept him busy. But since yesterday he had been disturbed and wanted to see for himself if Manpreet was all right. That little boy intrigued him to the core. He felt like he was seeing Meera’s childhood all over again… He knew he was a fool to do so but that boy’s innocence tugged at his heartstrings. He walked up to the gate and knocked but there was no response. He wondered if they were all sleeping and felt like a douche for disturbing them. He decided to complete his run and turned back. He ran towards the rock ahead and just as he passed it, he saw Manpreet seated hunched on a drawing book he had got him yesterday with his crayon box next to him.

“Hey, buddy what’s up…? What did you make today…”?

Manpreet looked up and his face brightened up with a full smile reaching his gleaming innocent eyes. “…Anshuman… look…” He spoke without a stutter and held up his drawing. Anshuman sat on his haunches and peered at the creation. Oh goodness…it was him and he had worn the same checked shirt to the market trip. He was teary as he saw the detailed sketch. It reminded him of Meera… she was a sucker for details as well. She got the emotions so well on the sketch book and later on the canvas. Probably if she had lived and had a child there was a chance, he or she would have some of her talents passed on hereditarily. Anshuman for one would have left no stone unturned to pamper and spoil the kid… He continued to stare at the masterpiece. Right then he decided he would do something for this gifted child.

“…So, buddy can I keep this…?”

Manpreet happily nodded and tore out the sheet at the dotted line before handing it over. Anshuman rolled it and pushed it into his tack pant and helped the boy gather everything. They walked back towards the clove and he realized Manpreet hesitating to go in. “…What is it, buddy…? Did your mom say something yesterday…? Do you want me to talk to her…?”

Manpreet tightened his grip on his palm and spoke softly. “…Mmmmma dddint cccc….cccome lllaast nnnnight…” His face crumpled as he tried to hold back a sob. Anshuman pulled him into his arms and rocked him rubbing his back. What kind of a woman didn’t bother to reach out to her child for two days? He held him with his shoulders and wiped his tears.

“…Buddy, where does your mom work…? Do you know…?” Manpreet nodded and he continued. “…can you take me there…? We shall find her together…?”

Manpreet hesitated but eventually nodded. Anshuman went on his knees and spoke. “…Ok where does she work…?”

“…hhhh….otel…”

“…A hotel…?” Anshuman wondered if Manpreet would be having his mother’s contact information given the secrecy around it.

Manpreet nodded. Right then the gate opened and Manpreet’s nani walked out. She didn’t acknowledge Anshuman and tried to drag a resisting Manpreet inside. He squirmed dropping his booty and she slapped his back. “…Why on earth do you torture this old woman…you brute…” She panted.

Anshuman had enough. “…Look aunty… please don’t do it…”

She glared at him. “…Stop interfering in our lives… wait here… I shall return your things… my grandson doesn’t need alms from strangers…”

Anshuman tried reining in his anger. “…Aunty… it was a gift to a super talented child… Manpreet is amazing… if his mom has a problem…let me talk to her… he can…”

The woman held her trembling hand up. “…stop right here mister…” Gone was her soft demeanor from the first day he had met her. “… Look Mister, kindly leave us alone… we don’t need any stranger butting into our peaceful life… yesterday you shouldn’t have taken him to your place… his mother will throw a fit if she finds out… so do us a favor and go away…” She turned to leave and tried to pull a wailing Manpreet who chose to lay on the floor.

She gave Anshuman an angry look. “…this boy has never thrown a tantrum his whole life and look what you have done…”

Anshuman pushed open the gate and walked in. Manpreet got up and rushed towards him holding him tightly around his hips even as his grandmother looked, horror written all over her face. Anshuman inhaled deeply and spoke. “…Look Aunty, I don’t know you at all or your circumstances, but Manpreet here is extremely talented… he is unable to attend school as well… and whenever he is out with the boys… you saw… they bully him… how can a child develop without adequate exposure…?”

“…So, you… a stranger is going to tell us how to bring up a child…” the woman spoke with sarcasm dripping from her voice.

Anshuman sighed. “…Aunty I want to talk to his mother… give me a contact number…”

“…I can’t give away her number like that…” She abruptly said.

“…Fine then… Manpreet here will take me to her… won’t you buddy…?” Manpreet nodded into his belly where he had dug his head and not moved since, his grip tightening around his hips.

The woman’s face was drained of colour. “…No… please don’t… she wont like it… she will be furious… she is working her ass off to earn a living… please don’t jeopardize anything…”

Anshuman now felt for the torn woman. “…Don’t worry aunty… I can handle it and trust me… I will do nothing that will put Manpreet or his mother in any kind of peril.”

“…It’s a lot more complicated… I don’t think you should…” The woman tried a last feeble attempt to dissuade him but Anshuman stood on his ground. He couldn’t help Meera but he would do everything possible for this boy.

“…I promise you, aunty, nothing will go wrong…” he assured her. Even as the woman panted and looked on, he held Manpreet’s little hand as they walked out of the gate. Somehow taking up a step for this little bundle of talent gave him a strange sense of gratification. He had never felt it in the last ten years.

Was this Meera’s way of forgiving him…?

©priyagole. No part of the story can be copied or shared anywhere without the consent of the writer.

Chapter 4

Anshuman had a fairly good amount of sleep which translated into fewer nightmares. He woke up early morning and as he set out for his run, he took the direction towards the same stretch as yesterday. He didn’t know why but his curiosity about the boy had piqued up. The speech impediment the boy faced as well as the raw innocence reminded him of Meera at that age. She spoke late and his parents had been worried sick. Also, she was very weak in her studies and clumsy in school. He had once found out she was being regularly bullied but she had never complained about it at home. Even after he told his parents and his father had visited the school to give the teachers a piece of his mind, Meera had forgiven all of them and had pleaded with the teacher not to punish anyone. Anshuman had thought she was scared of backlash but he was wrong… within a month those tyrants were all her friends. Her goodness had won them over. That was his sister Meera… she was a kind soul. It was beyond him why someone would want to kill her….

Anshuman rubbed his face and began his run towards the clove as he called the place where Manpreet lived. After about ten minutes of slow running, he reached the stretch but there was no sign of anyone. Disappointed he crossed the place and moved towards the rock. But as he neared it he heard sobbing and he didn’t have to look inside the cave to see who it was. The sunrays were yet to get stronger and he had to squint to peep inside. Manpreet sat on the cold hard floor hunched and holding his knees together as he sobbed.  Anshuman rushed inside. He bent over but refrained from touching the boy. “…Manpreet… buddy… what is it…?”

Manpreet startled and looked up, his tear-streaked face causing a strange kind of emotion through Anshuman’s body. He kneeled next to him and raised a tentative hand to touch the boy and the very next moment Manpreet rushed into his arms catching him unawares. He held the little boy close to him and rocked him as he cried. Anshuman blinked back tears wondering what had caused such turmoil to the little being in his arms who wouldn’t stop weeping. After a couple of minutes, the crying ceased but Manpreet didn’t let go of him.

“Manpreet… dear… what happened to you…? Will you tell me…?” Anshuman asked softly.

Manpreet hiccuped and nodded wiping his eyes as he moved a little away. Anshuman held his tiny hands and nodded to cue him to speak.

“…Ma… ma… ddddddint ccccome home…ag…ag…again…”

“…Your mom didn’t come home from work last night…?” Anshuman clarified. From the looks of it, it seemed like a frequent occurrence. The boy nodded even as fresh tears crowded his eyes. Anshuman asken him again. “…Did she call? Did your Nani say something…?”

Manpreet shook his head. “…Nnnnnani nnnooot ww… well… sssshe haaas ffffever… ssssleeping…”

Anshuman’d heart broke. “…Since when is your Nani unwell dear…?” he ran a hand on his head not letting go of the boy’s hand.

“….Ye…. ye…. Yesterday… eee… evening… ssshe haaas bbbeen ssss…. Ssssleeping since…”

“…She is sleeping since last evening… and your mom isn’t home… did you eat anything… buddy…?”

Manpreet shook his head. “…aaaa….aaaa… I dddon’t like mmmmmilk ffff…fffrom cccartton… Nnnani dddrank and ssss… sslept…”

Anshuman again ran a hand over the boy’s head. “…Was this today morning…? Did your nani drink milk and sleep…?”

Manpreet nodded in the affirmative and Anshuman asked again. “…OK then let’s eat something, alright…? I will drop you back at your house…? Is that OK with you…? Or if you can give me your mother’s number…I can speak with her…”

Manpreet flinched this time as if he had been slapped. “….nnnnno……nnnnooo… Dddont cc…cccal her… Sh…sh….she gets aaangry…”

Anshuman held his cold little hands and spoke. “…Ok …Ok…Don’t worry buddy I won’t tell your mother… come… let’s go and fill our tummies… alright…?” He wondered what kind of mother was she who didn’t like her child calling even during emergencies as this.

Nonetheless, they walked hand in hand to his condo. During the walk, Manpreet pointed to different points at a distance and told him about the places and their specialties. Surprisingly, he stuttered bare minimum when he did and Anshuman was eager to know more about this fascinating kiddo who was wimpish and a coward. But whose eyes sparkled as he struggled his way to show Anshuman around. The kid was smart. Anshuman got to know he was in the 3^rd grade but due to the pandemic, the schools were online. However, the internet in his house was bad so he couldn’t attend most of the days. Anshuman decided to have a word with his absentee mother. How could she not know all this…? The boy was missing out on education along with a lot of other issues.

Back to his condo, he made Manpreet freshen up while he cooked him a breakfast of eggs and toast. He was surprised to see a skinny Manpreet gorge on it voraciously. Anshuman’s heart went out to the boy… he probably hadn’t eaten since last evening. Manpreet then washed down the breakfast with a glass of warm milk. Manpreet pushed back the chair and stood. “…Tha…Thank you…um…” he looked questioningly at Anshuman probably confused about what to call him.

Anshuman wondered if the boy who stuttered on practically every word would be able to pronounce his name at a go. “…You can call me Anshuman buddy…” he smiled as he said.

Manpreet smiled brightly and something churned inside his heart. What was it about this boy that fiercely tugged at his heartstrings…? Why did he have that urge to protect the boy…? Was it because he was vulnerable to get bullied just like Meera was in childhood…? Was he displacing his emotions towards his sister towards this little boy…?

He wound up in the kitchen while switching on the TV for Manpreet in the living room. By the time he came out he saw Manpreet had arranged few show pieces on the side rack, all were a gift from his friends Amandeep, Keshav, and Nirvi…. neatly and in a manner that put life into that dull corner. He was scribbling something on a paper. As he went close, he was stunned to see the boy sketch out the wooden elephant piece down to the t, including the intricate jewelry pattern on it.

“…wow… that’s amazing buddy… you are too good… you are so talented…” Anshuman could help the tears that sprang up into his eyes. His Meera was just like that… she loved sketching. Even during playtimes whenever the cousins would gather and play, she would prefer to go to a corner and sketch to her heart’s content. She always told everyone to gift her the needed stationary for her birthday and not to bother with clothes and toys. Anshuman couldn’t contain his curiosity. “…Do you sketch often buddy…?”

Manpreet’s smile fell and he shook his head. “…nnnno…mmmmy bbbook… ggggot oo…over…” The boy’s mom needed to be spoken to. The kid was such a mess, his speech issues, low self-esteem, and now exceptional talent going down the drain.

“…OK buddy let’s go to the market… know any place nearby…? We can buy you some books and other stationery…” Manpreet looked away sadly and Anshuman’s heart broke again. “…hey what’s it, buddy…? Afraid of your mom…? Don’t worry I will convince her…”

This time Manpreet grinned happily and there was a bounce in his steps as he directed Anshuman to the nearest market. The place was slowly opening, and very few shops were up and running. Fortunately, the stationary shop was open and Manpreet scrouged through the booty eagerly. Finally, after about half an hour Anshuman’s hands were fully loaded with proceeds and Manpreet barely walked. He was jumping and running and stopping to tell Anshuman what he intended to draw, and now he didn’t stutter at all. What was the transformation Anshuman couldn’t tell… But it thrilled him to see the little boy act normal for a change.

They walked along the waves and finally reached the clove hiding his house. Manpreet unlatched the gate and they walked inside stamping on the overgrown shrubs lining the thin pathway leading to the house. They knocked at the door and waited for a while before his grandmother opened the door. The woman looked worn-out and tired as if she had aged much in a day. She was surprised to see Manpreet outside and if she was annoyed, she didn’t show. She hurriedly ushered the boy inside. Manpreet carried his gifts happily and walked in. Anshuman asked her if she needed anything but she refused and said she was OK. Her demeanor was a far cry from yesterday. What had changed suddenly…? He tried to take a glimpse of the dark interior behind as he informed her about the stationary but before he could complete his talk, she nodded and saying a thank you, shut the door.

Anshuman stood irked with his arms on his hips as he took in the exteriors. The entire single-storied house was surrounded by climbers growing along the walls and creating a thick blanket of green camouflage. There was a wild growth of thick bushes surrounding the house on the sides that he could see and many had thorns to keep away strays or any children. He walked a bit to the sidewall and was repulsed by the odor of rotting foliage. Why couldn’t they un weed the place…? It wasn’t healthy for them either.

The entire place reeked of secrecy and as he left, he wondered what had caused a single mother to move to this atrociously secluded corner with a child that young who craved human contact. From his decade-old experience in looking for his sister, he could only conclude, the woman was in hiding…

©priyagole. No part of the story can be copied or shared anywhere without the consent of the writer.