Chapter 30

Preeti was suddenly woken up by a clicking sound. She jerked up and massaged a kink in her neck. She was on the drawing room couch waiting for Gautam where she must have fallen asleep.  She stood and straightened her satin night gown which she had picked from the options in the cupboard. She waited as she heard the footsteps. She saw his silhouette enter the room and halt… as he caught her standing in the dark. He moved back to the entrance and switched on the light. She squinted at the sudden onslaught on her vision. His eyes narrowed as he saw her in the skimpy outfit.

He cleared his throat. “Why are you still awake Preeti…?”

“I..um …I was waiting for you…”

“…I had told you not to…” He abruptly said

“…but I wanted to…” She was not the one to let go.

He held his hands on his hips and moved towards her. She folded her hands and winced at the sudden pull in her injured hand. Suddenly he was next to her. Gently holding her right elbow he looked at the bandage intensely. “Dr, Shekhawat had said you were fine. Is it still bad?” he asked gently.

She raised her other hand to cup his cheek. “I am absolutely fine and I have a surprise for you…” Before he could react she held his hand and dragged him to the dining table. She switched on the lights in the area to reveal a beautiful cake decorated by… Oh God…fondant whips cuffs and ropes. He couldn’t help but smile and that lit up his face.

She gave him a knife and held his palm around it as they cut the cake together. She removed a neatly cut piece and held it close to his mouth as he took a bite. He took the piece from her hand and held it out for her to take a bite. Not only did she eat it, she also licked the cream off his fingers… He shook his head smiling licked his fingers all over again staring at her with those beautiful brown orbs. Preeti blushed and looked down at her feet.

He came closer mere inches from her body. He held her chin with is bent index finger and raised her face up…

“What is all this Preeti?” He asked so softly she curled her toes to fight the sensation running through her body.

“Just… just a little celebration…”

“…and…what is the celebration about?”

“…um… what about the return of happy times?”

Gautam stared into her eyes intently. “Preeti…what’s going on?”

“Gautam consider this a thank you offer, ok?”

“Preeti stop taking in riddles…”

“…No I am serious… I have a lot to thank you for… For saving my life all those years ago, for looking over my well-being for last twelve years and always taking care of me…like you did when I got injured.”

“Let it go Preeti…” He said softly walking away towards the window.

She walked behind him and hugged him from the back.  He stiffened but she tightened her hold and he relaxed. She buried her head in his back.  He turned around and held her careful of her bandaged hand. He buried his nose in her hair and took in a deep breath. She laid her head in the crook of his neck her favourite place and rained light kisses there. She ran her palms up his back and he tightened his hold. She pushed her pelvis ahead felt his arousal prodding at her stomach. She looked up into his eyes and saw raw hunger.  Holding his face she pulled him towards her. Their lips met with an intensity she hadn’t thought of. It was as if he was making up for their lack of physical intimacy. He devoured her hungrily. After what seemed like ages he released her lips and lifted her looking into her eyes as if unsure. She hooked her hands around his neck and kissed his forehead. Holding her, he almost ran upstairs to his room and let her down only to open his room. 

He pulled her in with him and closed the door. Again picking her up, he took her to his bed gently laying her on it. In record time he freed them off their clothes. He quickly got between her legs, his manhood eager at her wet entrance. She wound her legs around him and raised her hands up to grip the head board railing of his cot. That raised her breasts and she was thrilled to see the gleam of want in his eyes further arousing her. The slight pain in her hand forgotten…. She only saw him. In the next moment he slammed into her with a force that shook her insides and started the wave of climax even before he started the thrusts. Taking an erect nipple in his mouth he sucked on it…while continuously thrusting in and out of her wetness. Suddenly he increased his pace and she was almost exhausted trying to keep up with him. He got the nipple between his teeth and gave it a gently tug. She shattered with a scream and he closed her mouth with his. He gave the final thrusts and released into her with a sound she had never heard before. He screamed her name as well…. He fell on her and they held each other tightly slowly descending from the throes of passion they just shared.

He sank into the bed besides her and she wondered if he would ask her to go back to her room. But he spooned her pulling her close to him her back touching his chest. He rained kissed on her head and she was so overwhelmed she couldn’t help the sob from escaping her mouth.  He immediately put her on her back and came right over her balancing on his fore arms. “What is it dear?”

“Gautam… I missed you… like hell… I …I can’t live without you… or with you angry or upset with me…”

“…hey hey…” he palmed her cheek and she leaned into it. “…no darling…I am not angry…not at all… I …I missed you too sweet heart… every single moment.” He bent and claimed her lips in a slow kiss. He gently pulled her lower lip…

“Gautam?”

“Yes darling…”

“… I love you…I hope you know that…”

He nodded smiling at her. She knew he did too…she was now sure of it. Would he ever tell her?

She held his cheeks in her palms and said. “Don’t…ever…don’t ever leave me… Don’t shut me out… please…”

He kissed her palms on either side. “What is it Preeti?”

“Gautam…I am ready to sign those papers…the documents for the fort.”

He stilled and got up to sit on the bed resting his back to the head board. She knew she couldn’t lose the moment. She moved towards him and sat on his lap facing him. Holding his face in her hands she looked into his eyes…shining brightly in the night lamp hues.

“Gautam…there is something I want to admit…”

He stared at her expressionless.

“I…I met an Inspector from Crime Branch…Tanveer Raisingh…”

“…I know sweet heart…” He said softly. And it was her turn to be surprised.

“Don’t be surprised… I have kept detailed tabs on you for twelve years in Alwar and Mumbai…don’t you think I would have done so when you got back here as well?”

“So…you knew…”

“…Yes I saw you got to their office that morning.”

How come she hadn’t known? She was sure she had checked…

“…so Gautam…you weren’t angry…?”

He held her face on one side… “Why the hell would I be angry darling?”

“..That I went behind your back…but Gautam …I wanted to help you… and also get closure… But…But I didn’t reveal anything about you…”

Gautam chuckled. He turned her around and made her sit between his legs her back resting on his chest. Oh how she loved this feel. She could sit like this all her life.

“Preeti… ?”

“Hmmm…?”

“…I met Tanveer today… Me and Gaurang were in a meeting with him…”

She squeezed his hands and he interlocked his fingers with hers as if deriving strength from her.

“Gautam… he suspects you killed those people twelve years back as well as that… monster.”

“..Yea…I … Preeti… will you…hate me …if I tell you…I killed someone?”

She raised her hand and held his face behind. She looked up tilting her head and pulled his face. She kissed him with all the love in her heart.

 “Gautam…darling I trust you…more than anything in this world. Whatever you tell me, it’s not going to change my opinion of you…”

He kissed her all over her face and hugged her from the back placing his chin on her head. She waited giving him time to gather his thoughts. “Preeti… I have …killed someone…that monster who had…”

“…I know Gautam…I am alive only because of that…”

“…on the other hand…Preeti…what does that make me? I …I killed my foster brother. My mentor …my so-called father who brought me up… he killed himself because of that….”

“…Gautam…you saved two of us …me and Narmada…”

She told him about what Narmada had shared about his childhood. He sighed into her hair and tightened his grip on her hand.

“Gautam…?”

“Yes..”

“Do you remember you had said, there was something unsolved about what happened 12 years ago?”

He nodded. “Gautam…actually on the day we got married, Rewa didi was apologising and crying for what she did 12 years ago…do you know about it?”

“..Preeti…Rewa admitted this to me on the day we got engaged.  Suyash was there too. This was just before you came looking out for her. She… she was in love with Vikram 12 years ago. In fact he had cheated her into pursuing an affair with him. He did that with many other unsuspecting girls”

“…Oh… but how did we reach that alley? I have always wondered about it for the last 12 years Gautam…”

Gautam stood and walked towards the window in his naked glory. Preeti only ogled at him. His well-toned back…  The same back which she had held to pull him towards her body as they fell apart in each other’s arms every time they came together… The same broad shoulders which carried so much burden that he had not even known to unload it somewhere…on someone.

As Gautam stood gathering his thoughts again, she patiently waited. Her eyes well up thinking about a song which reminded her of the enigma standing at the window.

….Tu hoga zara paagal, tune mujhko hai chuna

Kaise tune ankahaa, tune ankahaa sab sunaa…..

Copyright Disclaimer: All content posted here is a work of fiction and original work based on the author’s imagination. There is no intention to disrespect any person or faith. Any resemblance to any person living or dead or any community is purely coincidental. No part of the content can be copied, reproduced or posted anywhere else either entirely or in parts, without the consent of the author

Chapter 29

Preeti took her medicine dose and entered the drawing room to see Narmada holding a throw pillow close to her as she reclined on the sofa staring into space. She moved as Preeti sat next to her. She was very tight in anticipation.

Narmada looked at her and gave a sad smile. “Bhabhisa… Bhai entered the Singh household at the age of four. I don’t know when exactly our father got him home …” Preeti’s eyes were wide with surprise. “…Yes Bhabhisa, Bhai…he is not my biological brother. My parents were originally from Bhopal and they were married by community elders to settle some property dispute in their respective families.  They had moved to Alwar when my father got a job with in the police force here. They were never compatible and always fought. My mother Romila Devi was extremely ambitious and wanted money, fame and mainly power. They were blessed with a baby boy within a year of their marriage but instead of cementing the distance they only grew apart. That was my brother…Vikram.” Preeti kept a hand at her chest feeling her heart galloping as Narmada continued.

“…My father was not a good person…I mean he had a super dark streak…A strange sense of displaced patriotism. He wanted to build a …cult …an organisation which fought for the country….clandestinely. He wanted to get the streets rid of anti-social elements. He wasn’t happy to abide by the boundaries set by the law. So he left the police force.  One day bhai came into their lives. He was just a year younger to Vikram but far more intelligent and strong. I…well I was an accident that happened in the one moment of passion my parents shared years later… But my father was disappointed at me being a girl. He wanted boys. He home schooled all of us and never allowed us to socialise. People barely knew us. We kept moving within Alwar and neighbouring districts. Once my parents separated I stayed back in Bhiwadi with my mother. Vikram mostly stayed with dad occasionally visiting us. But bhai was not allowed to leave dad’s home. He would secretly visit me and get me goodies….” Narmada smiled through tears.

Preeti held Narmada’s hand urging her to continue. “… My mother was never bothered much so far as she got her monthly maintenance. My dad had sold all his ancestral property in Bhopal when the demand came and had made good money. So we didn’t have any financial issues for our limited needs but I wanted to meet other girls my age…play with them. But our parents weren’t bothered. Each was busy with their own life goals. Bhai grew up into this strong just warrior. My father wasn’t an easy person to live with but bhai endured it all. He never revolted. I have seen belt marks on his hands and legs but he said they were a part of his training. Unfortunately Vikram didn’t…um…turn out the way it was expected. He was a strong combat soldier no doubt… but he… he was a bastard of the greatest degree. He tried to lay his dirty hands…on…me…when I was ten…” Narmada blinked back tears and Preeti squeezed her hands. “…Bhabhisa… bhai saved me that day and saw to it that Vikram always stayed away from me. He has always since then been looking out for me….”

Preeti wasn’t surprised. That was her Gautam…loyal and caring and…protective. She had experienced it too.

Narmada took in a deep breath. “… Bhai got a chance to go to school for three years and I think that groomed him to take up the future course of action. I don’t have any idea what he did for my dad but I know he has always been discrete and making the right decisions. I trust him on that. I am seventeen years younger to bhai and he has always been there for me like a …parent would…. He and Vikram were close though they were like fire and ice. But they always had each other’s backs. I don’t know what they did in the missions that they called them…but they were kind of happy in their own way, It was all status quo till that day twelve years ago…”

Preeti stiffened. Narmada patted her hand and spoke. “…I know bits and pieces. Bhai got to know of what was happening in that alley and he rushed to that place. But he couldn’t save your brother and driver. He saved you though… But he wasn’t the same after that. He was never a social person but from that day he became a total recluse. He stopped talking to everyone. That was the day Vikram died. Bhai…he …he ki..killed him….”

Preeti was shocked. “Why…?” she asked softly.

Narmada who was openly crying by now looked into her eyes as she said, “ Because Vikram was the same blue eyed monster who tried to violate you that day and even tried to kill you in the hospital…” Preeti started to sob as the past came before her eyes. Narmada gave her a hug. The two of them remained like that for a few moments.

Narmada stood up to stretch her legs. She started to pace. “…Bhai only told me this the next day when he came to meet me and mother. For the last time… That was the maximum he had spoken with me. He was leaving us for good. Fortunately he gave me his phone number and also a mobile by which I could connect with him. Next day the authorities found dad lying on the floor in his house having overdosed with sleeping pills. He died soon after. I didn’t have any feelings about losing Vikram or dad…but I was terrified with the prospects of bhai leaving us. He arranged for me to attend a college and a hostel as well. My mother was indifferent. She inherited all of dad’s money. Bhai too provided for her…still does…. But she has this strange wish to own the Gagorn fort….” Narmada came over to Preeti and sat next to her. She took her hand in hers and continued. “…Bhabhisa …I know you are angry…its…its alright…its understandable… But please don’t hate bhai. He deserves happiness after all the  crap life has thrown him. I had told him to leave the conquest to achieve Gagorn but my mother has some hold over him which he can’t seem to shake off. Bhabhisa…” She looked pleadingly at Preeti. “…You have to…have to help him out of this… Just take him away from here…take him back to Mumbai. He has been the happiest with you…He made me happy by taking me out of my mother’s clutches and helping me elope with Gaurang. Please Bhabhisa… help him out…He is a moron. He will never ask…”

They both chuckled. Preeti even laughed a bit. Of course Narmada was right. Her saviour with the beautiful brown eyes who unleashed passion in tonnes was a moron when it came to the matters of the heart.

Later that evening Narmada left with Gaurang who had come to pick her up and they were to leave for Jaisalmer early next morning. Preeti insisted that they stay with them instead of the hotel but Narmada staunchly refused. She held Preeti’s hand one last time and squeezed it winking at her and bid good bye.

It was 10 PM and Gautam was still not home. He had sent a message with Gaurang that he would be very late. He had told her to go to bed.

Preeti reminisced about all that Narmada told her. It showed Gautam in a new light but not too different than what she already had known about him. She hugged herself as she felt the flutter in her heart…oh God how much she loved him!!

Preeti smiled to herself as she made a decision. She was definitely going to do all it took to win back the love of her life…. And this marriage of theirs was definitely for keeps.

She walked into the kitchen and checked for the items in the fridge. Her smile widened as she went over her culinary plan. Next she knew she was wearing an Apron and listening to another of her favourite songs as she swayed and cooked.

Bahon me chale aa…..

Copyright Disclaimer: All content posted here is a work of fiction and original work based on the author’s imagination. There is no intention to disrespect any person or faith. Any resemblance to any person living or dead or any community is purely coincidental. No part of the content can be copied, reproduced or posted anywhere else either entirely or in parts, without the consent of the author

Chapter 28

Preeti stood rooted to the floor. . Her tears flowed freely as the banging of his door vibrated throughout the house. What just happened? Why did he scream at her? She had always known him to be caring and polite irrespective of his mood at the time. She had never seen him yell or throw a fit… But what was this? She had just asked him a simple question…she had the right to know it all. Was this his real persona?

She had been sleeping after a tiring journey from Kota when some kind of a sound, as if someone had called her out…had woken her. But she was so used to having nightmares of the weirdest kinds she didn’t know if she could rely on her senses when awake…

She had gotten off the bed and opening the door had walked down the stairs. The faint sound was getting a bit clearer. Someone was calling her name…in distress. Was it Gautam? She had thought with fear. Was he in some kind of trouble? As she had walked into the drawing room the voices had stopped… Oh God was she hallucinating? She had held her head with her left hand and had hoped she didn’t need a psychiatrist someday… she had started to confuse dreams with reality. She was about to turn and return when Gautam had asked what she was doing there. She had been scared out of her wits. He had thought she couldn’t see him well but her eyes had adjusted to the darkness by then. He was sweating all over… he was only in his boxers and that open coat… she was silenced. But why the sweat… was he working out at this hour? He also seemed in some kind of pain. She didn’t need any light to read his stormy eyes. If only he would share what was troubling him… She had tried coaxing him and then he had yelled at her. Her chest clenched not because he said that, she realised. She was feeling his pain…his agony. How could she help him? She thought about that as she wiped her cheeks and climbed the stairs. She wanted to apologise so that it would calm him further instead of shutting him off. She walked towards his room and heard the gut wrenching sobs… Oh my God… Gautam… his anguish was palpable. She almost knocked at the door. But realised he needed his solitude.

But only till morning Gautam … she had thought. She felt determined. She would speak with him tomorrow… let him yell his lungs out…she would have her answers tomorrow. She would put her life on the line if needed but she would reduce his pain…

She didn’t know how long she had slept. She woke up with the sound of the front door being shut. As she stretched on the bed carefully to avoid hurting her injured hand, she heard a vehicle start and leave. Wait… did he leave the house? She scampered to the window. By the time she struggled to open the latch and peep outside she saw Gautam on the driver’s seat, speaking to Bhim Singh near the gate and pulling up the window. He then drove out. Did he run away…as usual? She was disappointed. All for her tall self-claims of talking to him…

She realised she was feeling much better than before physically. She was tired of lying in bed and also wanted to get off the day old clothes. She smiled as she untied the beautiful butterfly knots at her shoulder and released the hotel robe that he had customised for her. He was so resourceful, she thought. She had removed her sling and luckily today she was able to straighten her hand. The pain was there but bearable. She decided not to take her painkillers. They made her drowsy… She also had to try to write because whatever it was, she wanted to sign those documents …if that meant peace of mind for Gautam. She wanted him back… She had a quick bath taking care not to wet the bandage and changed into fresh pair of clothes.  She walked down to the kitchen and saw a note tucked to the refrigerator. It was written by him she realised seeing the beautiful handwriting. At the same time she worried…remembering the last time he had written such a letter…the day he had probably left for Alwar from Mumbai. She took the letter…

Preeti,

I hope you are feeling better. I have some urgent work and will be gone all day. Will be getting late. Bhim Singh is taking care of the security. Your breakfast is on the counter. Heat it once or ask Bhim Singh to do it. Narmada will be dropping home to give you company and take you to the doctor.  11 AM appointment with Dr. Shekhawat. Don’t be late. Take care and don’t wait up for me.

-GR

Preeti teared up. Gautam was still the same. He cared about her she thought taking the letter close to her chest. She had forgotten all about it but he remembered her appointment. He took care of her more than she did herself. If only he would let her reciprocate… But Narmada? He called her all the way from Jaisalmer…the lady was pregnant for God’s sake and had just travelled for the wedding. Just then the doorbell buzzed and she opened the door to a beaming Narmada.

Narmada walked in and gave her a hug. “Good morning Bhabhisa… how are you today? How’s that hand?”

Preeti smiled. “I am good Narmada but you didn’t have to travel all the way in this condition. Gautam is going to hear it from me…”

Narmada laughed her hearty laughter. “Are..na na Bhabhisa… Gaurang and I are still in Alwar. Actually Gaurang is a lawyer and he handles bhai’s estates as well. Today they had an important meeting. So we had stayed back. Gaurang just dropped me here and he will now join bhai. By the way…we have to be at the doctor’s. Did you have breakfast?”

Preeti smiled and invited Narmada to join her. Gautam had prepared quite a lot and she wondered when he woke up to do all this? Especially after sleeping so late last night… Narmada and she enjoyed the breakfast and she felt light hearing her constant chatter. She was thankful to Gautam to have arranged for Narmada to be here.

She was still smiling when they later landed in Dr. Shekhawat’s clinic. He examined the wound and redressed it. He said she was healing well and didn’t need the sling anymore. He gave her light exercises to keep the hand moving and get the muscles working again.  Later Bhim Singh, who had driven them to the doctor, dropped them at a local restaurant. Narmada and she had a fun time over lunch where they discussed everything from the climate to politics to food. She was amazed at how much Narmada knew. Must be brilliant like her brother she thought.

Narmada and she visited a local museum with Bhim Singh who was keeping a distance and watching over them. The museum was small but depicted the history of Alwar. She was in awe…thinking she had never been here till she was in Bhiwadi. Narmada was a huge fan of history and was engrossed in reading the plaques below. Preeti however was bored by now and rested on a nearby sofa. Suddenly her phone buzzed. She checked an incoming text. It was from a private number.

‘This time the bullet won’t graze…it would be a shot to kill… DO NOT SIGN THE PAPERS…’

She sat upright with a jolt. So, the bullet was for her… but who the hell was this?

She was thinking when the phone buzzed again.  It was another text from the private number.

‘Don’t think of doing anything in the sly. My eyes are on you all the time. BTW… blue colour suits you…’

She almost dropped the phone and stood looking around. She didn’t find anything out of ordinary. She looked down at her blue outfit. She was shivering with fear when Narmada approached her. “What happened Bhabhisa?” concern marring her beautiful features.

Preeti didn’t want to involve Narmada. She shook her head and said… “I..um I was day dreaming… shall we go home?”

Narmada looked at her for a moment and then they left the museum. Even after they reached home later, Preeti couldn’t shake off the fear of having been watched. Who was this person?

Narmada prepared coffee for them while Preeti changed into comfortable clothes and they sat at the dining table.

“Bhabhisa…?”

“Hmmm?”

“How are things between you and bhai..?”

Preeti looked up at her startled. Narmada’s eyes were filled with worry. She continued. “..Um..I am sorry bhabhisa I didn’t mean to intrude… But I worry for bhai.”

Preeti saw that Narmada was genuinely worried for Gautam and a little pang of jealousy hit her as she thought she knew nothing about her husband while his sister here knew him so well.

“Actually Bhabhisa… bhai has been through so much…” she looked away lost in thought. “…I never thought he would ever find happiness…” She turned back to Preeti and placed her palm on hers. “…But Bhabhisa…I am glad he found you.” Narmada’s eyes teared up and she blinked them away.

Preeti was surprised to see Narmada like this. “Narmada, your bhai never speaks out his heart isn’t it? I wish I could know what’s troubling him…”

“Bhabhisa…I don’t know if you know anything about our childhood… If you did then you would know why he is… like this.”

“Narmada…If you don’t mind… can you tell me? I want to know and understand this enigma who is my husband… who is so caring and who has bottled up so much inside him….and the man that I love more than life itself…” Narmada came up to Preeti and hugged her.

 “Thank you Bhabhisa… I am so relieved… come lets go to the drawing room. There’s a lot I have to tell you…”

Preeti followed Narmada to the drawing room. She had a mixture of emotions. Happy that she would finally get to know something about Gautam but still unsure if she would actually be able to enter his heart…

Copyright Disclaimer: All content posted here is a work of fiction and original work based on the author’s imagination. There is no intention to disrespect any person or faith. Any resemblance to any person living or dead or any community is purely coincidental. No part of the content can be copied, reproduced or posted anywhere else either entirely or in parts, without the consent of the author

Chapter 27

Someone had shot her… his Preeti. Gautam paced his room furiously. He was just off the phone having spoken with the local police. The useless guys had reached dead ends. Who the hell wanted her out of the way? The poor girl didn’t even know why she was there. He had thought of getting done with the signatures at the earliest and hand the registered deed over to Romila Devi fulfilling his end of the bargain. She would then have kept her promise too…

He had been so thrilled to see his scheme had worked. Everything had fallen into place. His Preeti… his beloved was now his wife. He had vowed to love and cherish her. Once the signatures and transfers were done then he would have taken her away from all this chaos and begged her forgiveness. He would have told her everything… his every dark secret. He had hoped she would forgive him. He didn’t trust anyone, but Preeti’s eyes were a mirror to her heart. He knew she loved him in spite of not knowing him… his past. He would have opened up his life in front of her… and if she accepted him then he would have only one more important job to do. He would have taken her along for that. He would need her with him like never before…

But now everything was delayed further. However he was more worried about Preeti. She was so trusting in spite of the fact that he had been very secretive about everything so far. He hadn’t told her anything about the age old Sengar feud and she didn’t even know that she was the owner of a heritage property. She was a millionaire if the local folklore was to be believed. But his little vixen would have questioned him to the sunset and not rested till she got her answers. He still didn’t know why Romila Devi was interested in the fort. The place was practically in ruins and the land around it was also barren. Since the law of the land applied there, no Government was interested in the area and its upkeep. It was like a no man’s land. What would Romila Devi do with the fort? Anyway he wasn’t interested in that. He wanted his life back from her. She had held the strings tightly for the last twelve years. He now felt strangulated. And more than that, his heart was crying for innocent Preeti. He promised himself he would make up to her for all the trouble caused. First he would tell her about the marriage clause and apologise to her for the trouble she had to go through. Second, he had already initiated, he would give her a choice. She would be free to leave for Mumbai and head the company where she was working. Nothing would hold her back anymore. If she would have him… then he would accompany her to Mumbai after finishing his last job … If not then he would be crushed but he would definitely not stop her.

He had spoken to Bhim Singh who had initiated a discrete enquiry into the shooting. He had a gut feeling it had to do something with the incident twelve years ago… but what? He had checked her family for alibis. They worked out fine. There was no news about any hit-man hired too.  Who the hell shot her? They could have shot him instead… He rubbed his face again. He wanted to hold her in his arms to comfort her. He knew she was under tremendous duress…but the truth was he wanted a sense of calm for the raging storm in his heart. He needed her badly… but he had seen her face today morning. Something was different. She was looking at him accusingly… He was too upset when Romila Devi had called that morning. She had been spewing venom over the phone mainly at Preeti. He wasn’t able to rein in his temper. He was stuck…he couldn’t tell the lady anything.

He had never bothered what people thought about him…his business partners, workers… but Preeti’s opinion about him was his reason to live. It had been ever since he had seen adoration for him in her eyes all those years ago on her last day in the hospital. No one had loved him, adored him…accepted him for what he was. But she had. She had unknowingly started to heal him…his soul. He couldn’t bear it if she thought he was the villain…

 He decided he would let her go. It was unbearably painful to even think of it but he would do it. She deserved happiness…she deserved a normal life… not a fucked up life partner….She had suffered for twelve long years. It was time she got a chance to move on…

Would he be able to stand her gone? With someone else? He clenched his fists. He had to release the excess energy…

He had hurt Preeti. The only one whom he had ever loved… he had broken her heart, had trampled over it… and today she was suffering because of a shot that was probably meant for him. He deserved to be punished. It was 2 AM. His mentor had said the best time for penitence was between 2AM to 3 AM when the world slept.

He went downstairs and towards the red room.

He closed the door as he entered his secret world. He took the clamps from the drawer and pinched his skin across his torso. He took out the arm binder and hung it to the hook on the ceiling. The other end of the rope went over a pulley and he held the button box attached to it. He bound his hand and legs together in the loops lying on the cot on his stomach. The clamps dug further into his skin making him clench his teeth. He pressed the button which tightened the rope and lifted him up on the bed. The skin on the torso stretched now and the pain doubled. He screamed as the pain radiated up his arms and legs…

After about ten minutes he released the button and landed with a thud on the bed which again pushed the clamps deeper. By now he was erect like a stone. He released the ropes and clamps. He lay on the bed holding his wood. His grip tightened as Preeti’s smiling face came before his closed eyes. His breathing was laboured as he increased the pace of his strokes… Soon his member twitched and a vision of Preeti shattering apart under him caused him to explode his juices all over his hand. He came harder screaming her name repeatedly till his throat went hoarse. He laid like that for a while a strange sense of calm descending over. Later he cleaned himself and replaced the things in their places. He wore his boxers and coat and walked out of the room the locks falling in place. He then emerged out of the entrance.

As he walked towards the stairs he saw a shadow… crouching along the drawing room. He didn’t need light to see who it was

“What are you doing here Preeti?” he asked softly

Preeti straightened suddenly and screamed. “Oh God…Gautam… you scared me…I…I heard someone…” She stared at his torso thorough his unbuttoned coat and continued. “…I.. um…I  came to check here…um…What’s that?” She pointed to his body. She must have seen the marks. God… the woman had great night vision…

Did she hear him scream? Was he that loud?

“There is no one out here Preeti. Go back to sleep…”

“What are you doing here Gautam?” She asked inclining her head slightly.

He wanted nothing more than to kiss away that frown. “Go…go to sleep Preeti… you need the rest.” He said softly.

“Why Gautam? Why is my rest so important for you?” She asked with her good hand on her hips. Even in the dark he saw annoyance in her eyes.

“Preeti…please- go- to –your- room…”

“What if I don’t? What are you going to do then? Spank me now? Slap me? You know what…do what you want. I am not scared of you…never was…I got shot for God’s sake.”

He moved close to her… Some invisible string pulling him towards her for last twelve years… It was stronger today. He was almost touching her. She looked adorable in her makeshift robe that she had still worn. Her hair had escaped from her clutch which she must have hurriedly used. He raised his hand and pushed an unruly strand away and tucked it behind her ear. He saw her eyes shining. It killed him to see her so sad and upset. He wanted to tell her everything… every detail. But this was not the time…

“You are hurt sweetheart… to heal… you need the rest.”

“Is it to heal or is it the hurry for my signatures?” She asked him. He stiffened. Did she know anything?

“Preeti…. Please…” he barely heard his own voice.

“I want answers Gautam… Goddamn it…talk to me”

“Preeti…don’t…” he was losing it again.

“You don’t get it, do you?”

“For the last time… Preeti…just drop it…”

“Why did you marry me Gautam?” she suddenly asked touching his arm.

He jerked her hand away and turned around. He couldn’t face her. What if she refused to sign… then Romila Devi would… NO… he felt the walls closing on him…. He had no other option. He abruptly turned around and yelled. “JUST GET THE FUCK INTO YOUR ROOM. DON’T YOU UNDERSTAND SUCH A SIMPLE STATEMENT? WHY DO YOU HAVE TO BE SO STUBBORN? GO AND REST FOR YOUR OWN GODDAMN SAKE…” He turned and ran up the stairs to his room banging the door shut.

He slid down his back on the door. He crouched down on the cold floor and held his face in his palms. He convulsed as huge sobs rocked his body…he cried… for the first time in last 40 years he actually cried.

He cried for his pathetic inability to work things out, he cried for the normalcy that plagued him for ages and most of all for a chance with the woman whom he loved more than life, the woman whom he almost lost… and he just hurt her … again.

Copyright Disclaimer: All content posted here is a work of fiction and original work based on the author’s imagination. There is no intention to disrespect any person or faith. Any resemblance to any person living or dead or any community is purely coincidental. No part of the content can be copied, reproduced or posted anywhere else either entirely or in parts, without the consent of the author

Chapter 26

The next morning Preeti woke up to a buzzing sound, pain and exhaustion. But she was held protectively against his chest. The last she remembered, she was crying and had drifted to sleep in his warmth surrounding her. He stirred and shifted slowly to avoid hurting her. His phone was ringing in the vibrator mode. He moved towards the end of his side and picked the phone from the nightstand. He cursed as he saw the caller ID. He looked at her and rushed to the washroom to answer the call.

Why did he want to hide from her? Who was it? The way he looked at her she knew the call had something to do with her. Was it about the shooting? But why was she shot? She didn’t know anyone here? She didn’t even know why she had come here in the first place. Suddenly she was alert. There was something about that shot… she had heard that sound…it was familiar. What was that?

The door to the washroom opened and Gautam stepped out. He rubbed his hand over his face. He walked to her bed side and helped her stand. She slowly removed his hand supporting her better arm.  “Um…I am fine… I can walk and use the washroom on my own…”

She shuffled towards the washroom. Finishing her chore was difficult with only the use of her non dominant hand. Somehow she managed and wrapped the robe tightly around her as she walked outside, into the room. She heard him ordering breakfast. She was wondering how she could take a bath. It was as if Gautam had a direct telepathy with her… he walked towards her with two bath towels and handing them to her he said, “I shall fill a bucket of hot water for you and have asked for a plastic chair that will be arriving shortly. You can sit on it and take a quick bath. I have…er… ordered a robe as well. I will… customise it for you once the doctor visits. Alright?”

She nodded and watched him make the arrangements.  The chair also arrived and he placed it in the bathroom next to the bucket. He kept a stool on which he placed the body wash. He looked at her his expressions asking if she needed help. She nodded her thanks and went inside the washroom locking the door from inside. She took a while to clean and felt much better. She dried herself but couldn’t wrap the towels. She had to take his help. Suddenly embarrassed she unlocked the door and peeped out. He was there in an instant. She walked out just holding the towel in her better hand. She handed the towel to him and looked down turning red and she turned her back towards him. She was surprised at her show of modesty now when she had shamelessly surrendered to him just couple of days ago…

She felt him come close and place a robe on her. He then turned her around and slid another part of the robe under her sling and diagonally tied it to the part on her shoulder. She saw he had cut off some part of the right side. He had got her a pair of new panties. He sat on his haunches before her and held it. She put her feet through and he slid it up in place. Next came a black cotton long skirt. Which he helped her into. Finally taking a stole he covered her exposed shoulder as well. She wondered from where he procured the clothes. But knowing him she didn’t have to ask. He was very resourceful. 

They had their breakfast comprising of parathas and he insisted she have milk before taking her medication. Soon the doctor arrived as well. Unlike yesterday she didn’t have any issues before him. He checked the wound dressing it again. He said she was free to travel back home but had to rest for a couple of days and follow orders of the local doctor. She agreed and Gautam walked the doctor to the door thanking him. He turned towards her rubbing his hand down his face …for the umpteenth time. What had got him so tied up in knots?

“Preeti…uh… I have to make a couple of phone calls… will you be alright for a few minutes alone? I will be right outside in the corridor…”

She wanted to shout out to him… that she wouldn’t be disturbed…he was free to make his calls inside where she could see him…

  He didn’t wait for her reply. He gave her phone and left the room.

She had to talk to Tanveer Raisingh. She switched on her phone and saw a stream of incoming messages. Almost all were from the inspector. She didn’t want anyone to know about them so immediately selected all of them and deleted from her phone. She place the call. He answered on the first ring.

“Ms. Sengar… are you OK?”

“Besides the fact that I was shot at and have no clue why …. I am alright…” she hated sounding sarcastic but that was just her mood now…

“We heard about the shooting. The local police has been trying to find out the person but he seems to have escaped in mid air…”

“Sir… I was there to sign some documents… I don’t know what it held”

“That was a transfer deed… Of the Gagorn fort…. In the name of your …husband Ms. Sengar.”

She was shocked and couldn’t utter a word.

“Ms. Sengar…are you there…?”

“…Um…Yes sir… but why MY signature is needed?”

“Because of the law of the land that applies to Jhalawar district heritage structures. Gagorn fort is one of them.”

“…ok… but where do I come in the picture?”

“Ms. Sengar… do you know about your family history? I mean about the Sengar family history?”

“um…No…I don’t think so.”

“It’s a long story Ms. Sengar. But to cut it short, there was a pact made about half a century ago with the land owners who happen to be ancestor of the existing Sengar Rajput community in Bhopal. That’s where you guys are from. There was some feud for generations between Sengars , Rathores  and some other communities of Bhopal before they settled in Rajasthan and it ended with a pact which stated that the Gagorn fort and the land around it belongs to the Sengar family of a particular lineage. On completion of fifty years it will automatically be bequeathed to the first daughter of the family who is unmarried and under thirty years of age. A few months back the fifty years were up. So that fort is now automatically in your name since your family is of the lineage….”

It was too much to process.

“But sir, I am married isn’t it?”

“Your marriage certificate is not registered as yet. And you have the right to transfer it to to your husband and he can do what he seems fit… I think Ms. Sengar this was the marriage clause. Rewa chose to run away from it. She had a registered marriage a couple of months ago…”

“WHAT?”

“Yes Ms. Sengar we just found out yesterday. The crowd there was the local tribe who were protesting against the transfer of the land to Vikram Singh.”

Preeti’s head was reeling from information overload.

“Ms. Sengar, I know you are married to Gautam… Everything is a mystery. But be careful and take care. Call me if there is anything you have to tell us or need help with…”

She disconnected the call… so this was the reason he had wanted to marry Rewa and then her? For a mere fort? That’s why the interest in Sengar family? All that care and concern was a show? Of course, she thought and tears streamed down her face. He wanted her signatures as fast as possible. So she was a backup? Did Gautam always know about the fort history? So her feelings for him were indeed one sided?

Was that the reason for his Jekyll and Hyde personality….In one moment he cared for her as if she meant the world to him. Next moment he shunned her off. He was closed up to her… She knew nothing about him…

She kept the phone aside as her head was throbbing and rested back on the headboard. Would Gautam not want her anymore after the signatures? Was that show of passion… all that happened till some time ago a charade?

Her heart refused to believe her head.

She must have slept off and was woken up with a pat on her shoulder. She opened her eyes to see Gautam looking at her with a worried look. “Are you OK to travel? I had called Bhim Singh early today morning. The driver come security. He will be reaching in sometime. We can leave immediately.” She only stared at him trying to read his handsome rugged face which now had a couple of days old stubble that she longed to touch. She looked away blinking back tears.

He sat next to her on the bed. “Hey… are you alright? Is this hurting you? Do you want painkillers?” he asked her in the soft tone pointing towards her sling. His baritone threatened to melt her insides.  She shook her head and got off the bed to use the washroom once more before leaving.

Soon they left Kota in the SUV driven by Bhim Singh. She sat with Gautam right behind. The journey was back breaking considering her condition. Her hand and head both ready to blow off. Gautam urged her to come closer to him and rest. Though she didn’t want to, she knew she had to recover soon and for that she had to avoid the excitement. She gave in to his pull and rested her head on his chest on her left side. He held her close to him taking care not to hurt her hand. She soon dozed off. The pain medicines were making her sleep more.They took a brief break for lunch and reached Bhiwadi by evening. He helped her dazed body to her room and tucked her in since she didn’t want any dinner. He said he would return later with a glass of warm milk to give her medicines. She watched him leave her room shutting the door behind him and she burst into tears. The emotions she had been trying to hold up in her heart began to flow.

In the last few days her life had been unravelled in a way she couldn’t ever imagine.

Her sister apologised to her for something she didn’t know, she was forced in a way…to stay married for six months to a man she loved more than anything. And now she found out the clause because of which the marriage happened in the first place. Not to mention someone shot her for just being there….

She drifted off to sleep again remembering Gautam’s words on her first day back in Bhiwadi…

‘…Everything here is a charade…’

Copyright Disclaimer: All content posted here is a work of fiction and original work based on the author’s imagination. There is no intention to disrespect any person or faith. Any resemblance to any person living or dead or any community is purely coincidental. No part of the content can be copied, reproduced or posted anywhere else either entirely or in parts, without the consent of the author

Chapter 25

Water on her eyes… someone had the audacity to sprinkle water on her? She hated it…oh God…who on earth was doing this? She had to check. She struggled to open her eyes. Suddenly pain shot through her arm and she winced. Immediately a pair of rough hands held her face. She knew who it was. She would know him in any state…

“Preeti… sweetheart are you alright? Just…open your eyes dear…” Gautam sounded scared.

She opened her eyes and leaned into his palm on one side. She felt as if a truck had run over her body. Her body was aching everywhere.  He supported her as she tried to get up. She felt dizzy and held his hand but the movement caused sharp pain in her right hand. She moaned in pain. And Gautam yelled. “WHERE THE HELL IS THAT DOCTOR?”

There was some movement and a young doctor who looked barely out of medical school came in. “Y..yes sir? Oh…Ma’am is conscious now…” he declared happily.

“…SHUT THE FUCK UP. She is in pain… DO something…”

The young doctor stuttered…” Ssssir…Al..al..already given her the shot for pain before the woo…wound dressing. Ca…ca…can’t give another one sssso  Soon. Sh…sh…she need to go to a ho…ho…hospital…”

Gautam barked orders. “Mr. Ranawat, Get the papers here… let her sign then we will leave…”

What papers? Was she expected to sign them? Whatever it was, she was in so much pain she just wanted to leave…

The man named Ranawat came rushing towards them. She looked around to see she was in some office. There were rows or tables and benches… She was lying on one of them. Her hand wound was dressed well. Her blouse sleeve was torn off totally. There were a couple of other lawyers standing huddled to a corner. She wasn’t surprised. Gautam had that thing about scaring the world. She heard a ruffle and saw the papers were placed on a writing pad and kept before her on her lap.

“Ma’am you have to sign where the tiny cross is marked. There are four places….”

She looked at Gautam. “Um…what papers are these?”

“Preeti…” he said softly with a different expression on his face. She had never seen him so vulnerable. He rubbed his hand over his face. “…Please trust me on this Ok? I will tell you everything I promise. But today please sign without any questions…”

Her heart was breaking for him. She nodded and tried to move her right hand. But the pain shot through it blinding her and she shut her eyes clenching her teeth. She was just not able to move her right hand without excruciating pain. She couldn’t even straighten her hand. She looked at Gautam with tears in her eyes. He looked stricken as well.

 What was in those papers?

Mr. Ranawat who looked like Maharana Pratap from one of the pictures she had seen, took the papers and said, “Vikramsa, I think we will postpone this till bhabhisa recovers. Give me a call once done.”

Gautam looked down at the floor his palms clasped into each other. He nodded slowly.

“And Vikramsa…” Gautam looked at Mr. Ranawat. “ …Do you want me to inform Romila Deviji?”

Gautam nodded and the lawyers left leaving only the two of them in the room. Gautam was staring at the floor lost in thought. Preeti was silently crying. “I…I am so..sorry Gautam… I know this must have been important…but…”

“…No you won’t know… this was not just important…it was a goddamn matter of life and death for…” He spoke in a tone that sent shivers down her spine.

After a couple of minutes, he turned towards her. “Common let’s get going… “

She didn’t know whether she could travel all the way back with the painful arm.  She was feeling very weak and drowsy. As if reading her thoughts, he said, “We will check in into a hotel and I will call for a doctor to revive the wound. Luckily the bullet just grazed….” He looked always and rubbed his hand on his face. She had known by now that he did it whenever he was anxious. That was rare though. What was in those papers that made him so anxious? What did have to do with HER of all the people? And…his mother?

He helped her stand up and placed the jacket around her shoulders as her blouse sleeve had to be torn open. He supported her to the car and after she sat he carefully fixed the seat belt. He then drove them to a nearby hotel. She saw there were policemen on the roads when they left.

 Who had shot her?

Tanveer Raisingh’s words kept ringing. ‘… You will be collateral damage…’ that meant the bullet was meant for Gautam? She thought with a shudder…

They reached the hotel within fifteen minutes and Gautam drove slowly frequently checking in on her to the point of annoyance. She just wanted to pop in painkillers and lie down. She read the glow sign board. ‘Hotel Oracle…’ Appearance wise it looked good. But she had Gautam with her so she wasn’t worried. Would he book separate rooms? She wondered with a shock. For a man who had been insatiable till now, he had been working extra hard to keep his distance.

Gautam helped her out of the car and lifted her carefully avoiding pressing her injured arm. She rested her head on his chest as he carried her into the hotel. Thankfully he booked a single suite. He carried her to their hotel suite and placed her carefully on the huge double bed. The bell boy followed with their luggage. Gautam tipped him and ordered dinner for them. She smiled hearing him order Kadhi Chaval. He also called for a doctor to see her injuries. She was glad he didn’t insist on visiting a hospital. She always shuddered at the thought as they brought back haunting memories. He cared about every detail…

He helped her go to the washroom and she shut the door assuring him she could manage. Though he had seen her without clothes so many times something between them had changed since yesterday. Was it because they were married?

She finished her chores in the washroom with great difficulty. They hadn’t carried any spare clothes.  She had to tear open her already torn blouse to remove it as well as her bra strap. She just couldn’t move her right hand.  She somehow cleaned herself using her non dominant hand struggling all the way. He had given her the hotel robe which she wore on one side but couldn’t bear the pain again. She emerged just barely covering herself. She couldn’t tie the ropes of the robe. As if he was waiting for her, he was immediately by her side concern etched on his face. “Preeti… are you… are you ok? Is it very… painful…”

“…Gautam…” her voice cracked. She was getting extremely emotional at the turn of events in that last two days. No one from her home had even bothered to call her to ask her well-being. Even Rewa didi for that matter… And Gautam…it had always been Gautam who cared…always. “…I am fine…it’s hurting but otherwise I am Ok….I…I need to lie down…sleepy.”

“…Ye..yes…rest…” he mumbled and helped her on the bed. She wasn’t conscious not being covered anymore. She smiled as he took the covers up to her chin. Running a hand over her head he spoke in the softest voice she had ever heard. “Just…just rest, alright? The doctor will be here soon. And the dinner…” He looked away. He stood and she held his hand with her left hand. He sat next to her in the little space. She tried to move but it was painful. She grimaced. He immediately got up. She suddenly missed his warmth, his closeness.

There was a knock at the door. He opened to let the doctor in. Her eyes became wide when she realised it was a male doctor and she wasn’t even clothed. Immediately Gautam helped her up supporting her back and with the sheet still tucked beneath her chin. He made her sit upright her legs hanging from the side of the bed. He sat right behind her hugging her and covering her with the bed sheet in the process. Relief filled her and she dropped her head back on his chest. The doctor, an elderly man checked her wound and changed the dressing. He started her on antibiotics and gave her a tetanus shot. The doctor nodded and turned his back and Gautam again made her lie down on the bed. After covering her up like earlier, he asked the doctor about her.

“Don’t worry Mr. Rathore, she is fine. Nothing that won’t heal soon. I will send a sling and see to it that she keeps her hand in it for a couple of days. Don’t get the wound wet. Consult your doctor once you get back to Bhiwadi and get the dressing changed and um Mr Rathore… one more thing…”

Gautam looked worried. “Yes doctor?”

The kind doctor smiled and said, “…Nothing serious but in spite of the antibiotic she might get a fever tonight. So just take care of her and here is the medicine to get the fever down. I will see her tomorrow morning. Ok young lady… take care.”

Gautam dropped the doctor off. The dinner arrived simultaneously. Once again Gautam helped her sit up and stacked the pillows behind her back. He helped tuck her robe to cover her chest. He then took a plate from the food trey and served Kadhi Chaval on it. He came to her and sat next to her on the bed facing her. He scooped some food with the spoon and took it close to her lips. She opened her mouth and he fed her. She was hungrier than she thought she was. She finished the plate quickly. He helped her have the glass of warm milk and finished his dinner as well. She sat up till then watching him in the shadows cast by the dimmed light. She was mesmerised…

 He then helped her lie down on the other side of the bed so that the injured arm faced away. The sling had arrived and he helped her into it. Later after he made her comfortable under the comforter he went to the washroom. He was in for quite some time and she almost slept off. A little later she felt the bed next to her dip. She moved towards him as if on autopilot. He had taken off his clothes she realised… before she slipped into deep slumber.

Her head was hurting… why was it so hot? Her throat…it was hot as well. Why was she shivering? Oh God it was sooo cold.

“Preeti?” she heard him call her.

She opened her eyes to see there was dim light in their room. She was shivering with a terrible headache. Was she running a fever? She heard Gautam run around the room. What was he doing? She then felt him come close to her and felt something cold on her forehead. Ahh it felt so much better. He did that for quite some time and she started to relax. The pounding in her head came to a halt. She was in tears as she remembered the last time she had fever. She was alone in her house in Mumbai and had to shuffle to the kitchen to heat milk and take some medicine. No one…not once in her life had cared for her the way he had been doing. She closed her eyes but tears flowed.  She felt him come close and hug her carefully. She turned to his side on her better hand and wept into his chest as he held her…

Why couldn’t things be normal between them?

For a change … she didn’t care anymore. All that mattered was she wanted to be with him….

 Not just for six months but for life…

Copyright Disclaimer: All content posted here is a work of fiction and original work based on the author’s imagination. There is no intention to disrespect any person or faith. Any resemblance to any person living or dead or any community is purely coincidental. No part of the content can be copied, reproduced or posted anywhere else either entirely or in parts, without the consent of the author.

Chapter 24

Preeti could no longer hold it. She released her seatbelt and bent forward towards him. He did the same and held her close. She held his jacket lapels and looked at him as she cried.

He held the back of her head and slammed his lips to hers. There was no ascending of pressure this time. His hungry lips were demanding and she was only too happy to oblige. Oh God…how much she wanted this… her insides tingled as she tightened her grip on him. She pushed herself towards him further wanting more contact as he explored her mouth. His other hand tried to pull her towards him again… till suddenly there was a loud horn of a passing truck with startled them as it passed them loudly and faded away. But the moment was gone. He placed his forehead on hers… their breathing laboured.

She spoke softly. “Why Gautam? Why are you doing all this? You could have just asked me to marry you…you always knew I loved you…”

He released her and said. “Preeti I have always told you there is a lot more than what meets the eye. It was never going to be easy. I had to ensure Rewa and Suyash were safe… It took a lot of planning and execution…”

They put on their seat belts and he stated the car again.

“We will halt in a while for a quick lunch.” He told her.

She nodded and looked outside the car window. It was as if he was a different person now.

After a while she asked him, “Gautam?”

“hmmm…”

“What if…. What if I hadn’t come to Bhiwadi at all like you had ordered in Mumbai? What would have happened then?”

“Preeti let it go… Actually my marrying Rewa for namesakes… that was the original plan. But it was going to be complicated for all of us. Nonetheless, you came back and made things easy for us and we changed the plan. By the way, with you in picture Rewa could freely meet Suyash.”

“What? When?” she asked surprised.

“You remember the first day you came to the bungalow and Rewa had escaped upstairs?” She nodded and he continued. Actually Suyash was waiting for her there. In fact Suyash visited her every night… even the night I came to your room…I knew he was there…” She saw a hint of a smile on his face.

“That means if…if… I wouldn’t have been here, you would have married Rewa didi?” she sounded stunned.

“Preeti… like I said, it would have been a namesake marriage just to show the world. For six months… I would have returned to Mumbai and she would have continued her relationship with Suyash. No one would have doubted anyways…. Then post six months she would have officially separated from me and married Suyash. But you made things easy…” She saw a stern face with eyes not moving from the road.

“Gautam…what is this deal about six months?”

“Preeti please don’t ask me questions for which I can’t answer you now. When the time comes you will know…”

Preeti knew it was useless to ask him anything further. But she was relieved that he didn’t betray her for Rewa didi. She chided herself for doubting him but the situations were such and he never bothered to clarify. Buts she should have seen the signs. Rewa now was with the love of her life. That mattered more.  Preeti prayed that her sister would get all the happiness in life. Her eyes filled thinking about the wonderful times they had shared in childhood. She hoped she would know why her sister was apologising to her yesterday.

Soon they reached a roadside dhaba and Gautam pulled over. Why wasn’t he halting at some decent hotel? She thought. Instead he was stopping at spooky places. Here as well, he got out alone and checked around the place. As she sat in the car she unlocked her phone to check for the messages. She had a couple of texts from her colleagues wishing her a happy married life. The third text was from Tanveer Raisingh. Her heart beat accelerated as she opened the message.

‘Stall your visit… don’t go to Kota. It’s dangerous… V r trying to control situation from here… It may turn bad. Call me if psbl. Delete msg after reading.’

Preeti did that and waited silently in the car wondering what else was in store. She had to speak to the Inspector. Gautam waved to her and gestured her to join him. She got off the car and went towards him. The heat was killing. She decided to use the washroom again. Here the latrine was a little away and Gautam accompanied her. How would she make that phone call? They had a quick lunch and were on the road again. They still had about three hours to reach Kota. She wondered how she could prevent them from reaching their destination.

She thought of a plan. She acted as if she was feeling giddy and wanted to throw up. She made him stop the car. Gautam obliged and was out and reaching her side within seconds. He opened the passenger door and helped her out of the seatbelt. He held her hand and supported her as she got out of the vehicle.  She bent and dry heaved on the side of the road. He was there right behind with a bottle of water. He held her hair together behind her neck and also supported her shoulders with his other hand. She was touched by his tenderness and loved the comfort she derived by his closeness. How she missed him… She was feeling guilty about lying to him. But she also trusted Tanveer Raisingh. What else could she do now? She started to think. Meanwhile Gautam held her close to him and she rested her head sideways on his chest breathing deeply.

“Preeti…are you alright?” He asked softly and she felt the vibrations from his chest right to her core. She nodded and he took her to a nearby tree. Luckily there were a few this side. Otherwise the entire stretch so far was barren. He took off his jacket and spread it on the ground in the shade. He held her hand gently. “Preeti…just rest a bit. We will leave in sometime…”

She was so overwhelmed she couldn’t say anything. She only nodded and sat on the jacket. The jacket was huge so she moved a little and patted her side gesturing him to join her. To her disappointment he shook his head and walked away to make a phone call. She saw him talk animatedly as if he was angry. He turned and saw her looking at him and walked further away in the sun to continue his conversation. She decided to take this opportunity and immediately dialled the number she had called last. Tanveer Raisingh immediately answered on the first ring.

“Ms. Sengar… are you Ok?”

“Yes Sir… but what is the news about Kota?”

“Ms. Sengar Please don’t go there. Try your best to stall it… you guys are supposed to reach the district court but it closes at 4PM for the public. You were to barely make it. But there is a crowd of agitated people waiting for Vikram right outside. You may be collateral damage… Once the court is shut they will disperse on their own…. So delay…I repeat Ms. Sengar Delay the visit…”

Preeti had too much to process. “But sir…why is he taking me there?”

“Ms. Sengar I still have to confirm the reason. I will update you soon… meanwhile take care of both of you…”

Before she could ask him anything further she saw Gautam was moving towards her still talking on the phone. She disconnected and kept the phone back in the purse. She saw the time. It was nearing 2.30 PM. They still had quite a distance as per the Google map she had seen some time ago.  She had to do something quickly but what?

He came up to her. “I hope you are feeling better. You spoke on the phone so you should be fine…” He gave her a strange look. She smiled and said, “Yes Gautam… I had to call office. I am feeling better now…”

She stood up and moved. Without a word he picked his jacket and brushed it. He then went to the car and without a word opened her door for her. Once she was seated he shut the door loudly she startled. What was upsetting him? His phone call or hers? She couldn’t make out. But she was sure they wouldn’t make it to Kota on time. She rested her head on her seat and started to watch the passing scenery as he started the car. Within minutes he was driving like a lunatic. She had to hold the side bar above to keep herself in place in spite of the seatbelt.

“GAUTAM…Slow down…you will kill both of us…”

Silence…

“Gautam…please…slow down this is scary… I can’t…”

“…Throw up in the car if you want to but we are reaching Kota as planned… it’s a matter of life and death…”

She was stunned to silence. It was nothing new given her situation these days.

She however tried pleading with him continuously but of no avail.  They almost reached their destination in record time. He was out of the car even before it completely stopped. Her heart was in her mouth and now she feared what the inspector had told her. She had no choice but to trust Gautam. She knew for sure he would never endanger her. With that confidence she alighted from the car.

As told there was a gathering before the gates of the district court. They barely had half an hour before closing and she could see Gautam was restless and angry. There were police trying to control the situation. Gautam held her hand and started to walk towards the gate.

Was he nuts? She resisted, fear evident on her face. He looked at her, his eyes blazing. “Not now Preeti…I don’t have patience for all this. Let’s get going…” he held her by the left elbow. It was the same hand he had held tightly today morning and it hurt her as his angry fingers dug deep. She tried to make him loosen his grip but he only dragged her further worsening the pain. The only solution was she would comply. She moved as fast as her legs could carry her. He was moving swiftly and she struggled to keep up with him. Her skin was burning where he held her. But that was least of her worries. As they reached she heard the crowd screaming…

PACHAO JAAVNOU Vikram…

She knew from her limited repertoire of the local language that it meant ‘Go Back Vikram’. But why? What was happening?

As they moved towards the crowd, she heard the crackle first. She could never be mistaken with the sound. It was as rifle. The shot sounded next and she recoiled back ward. A piercing pain shot her other arm. She looked down on her right and saw her arm was bleeding. Oh God… she was shot. She almost fell but Gautam held her close and tried to drag her towards the police vehicles. But the shot had caused a chaos and people were running in different directions. Gautam lifted her in a fireman’s carry and started running. She was losing conscious mainly because of the pain. She blocked all the sounds around her and focused on her breathing…

But there was only so much she could endure and then everything went blank…

Copyright Disclaimer: All content posted here is a work of fiction and original work based on the author’s imagination. There is no intention to disrespect any person or faith. Any resemblance to any person living or dead or any community is purely coincidental. No part of the content can be copied, reproduced or posted anywhere else either entirely or in parts, without the consent of the author.

Chapter 23

Preeti woke up with a knock on her door. She stretched her limbs and quickly wore her robe before opening the door. Gautam stood dressed in his trademark style of black jeans and t-shirt, holding a tray of breakfast. She stood aside as he walked in and placed the trey on the night stand. He looked at her and took a hand forward but dropped it and looked away. Taking a deep breath he said, “Preeti have your breakfast and then get freshened up. Dress casual and meet me down in half an hour from now. We are going to Kota which is quite a distance from here. If we start early we can reach on time….” As he moved to go out she held his hand.

“Wait Gautam…what’s going on? I want some answers and right now…otherwise I am not going anywhere…”

He turned to her and rubbed his face. It was then she saw how fatigued he was. “Look Preeti…don’t argue with me on this. Please. I promise to tell you everything. But this is very important and we have to be there at the earliest. So… just get ready and come downstairs…” He said in a neutral tone… but it felt like a threat.

She folded her hands and looked into his eyes. “I am not a puppet alright? I have just had enough… for whatever secrets all of you have in your lives… I am the sacrificial goat here. But you know what Mister Gautam or Vikram or whoever you are… I REFUSE. I refuse to abide unless I am given valid answers…”

He held her hand at the elbow and pulled her towards him so that their chests met. With his other hand he held her hair at the nape of her neck and spoke with his jaw clenched. “I am not going to repeat myself anymore. You will not ask me any further questions. We have a lot of work to do and have very little time. If…If you delay anymore your family especially your poor old Maasa will pay the price for your impudence.” He suddenly released her and she fell a few steps backwards rubbing her arm where he had held her. Hands on his hips he went to the door and said without looking at her. “…just half an hour…” He banged the door shut.

Tears flowed down her cheeks. Was he the same guy who had been so caring few hours ago? She thought as she rubbed her arm. His fingers had made intent on her fair skin. Somehow she felt cornered from all sides. She didn’t know what she had ever done to deserve this… her suffering had begun twelve years ago but there was no sign of it ending. Would she ever move on? Till now she had been dependent on her saviour… Gautam. But now she was all alone…

She knew she had no choice at the moment. She decided to wait and strike when the iron became hot. With that determination she quickly had her breakfast of grilled vegetable sandwich and hot coffee. Whatever it was…the man could cook a mean meal.

She had a quick shower and selected a black trouser and yellow ochre coloured blouse to go with it. She had her flat black pumps which she had worn yesterday… The memories got in fresh tears but she blinked them away. She would overcome this she decided. Her phone was charged but switched off. Did he charge it? When? Shaking her head, she took her little purse and sunglasses kept in the closet drawer she reached downstairs a little before the stipulated half an hour. He was waiting with hands in his pocket looking outside lost in thought. He turned when he heard her come. He gave her a once over appreciation evident in his eyes. She had used the hair iron to straighten her curls. So her hair fell on her shoulders in little waves. He wore his jacket which he had hung on a hook and moved towards her.

“Um…Preeti…I am…”

“…Lets go Gautam….or should I call you Vikram? Let’s just get done with it.” she said firmly and holding her head high walked towards the front door. Gautam followed her and as usual she was struggling with the door latch. What was wrong with these people and their latches? Once again she felt him close up behind her. She held her breath… he placed both his hands on the door locking her in his embrace with his chest barely touching her back but nonetheless sending shivers down her body. Her body was such a traitor she thought, when it came to Gautam. She seemed to have no control… She felt him breathe in her shampoo…

He moved his mouth close to her ear and the world stilled as he whispered, “You cannot run from weakness…. Fight it out or perish… and if fight be so…why not now and … where you stand?” Before she could fathom his words he left her, opening the latch. The door opened and she walked out. What had just happened?

Their car was ready and Gautam was to drive. She checked the time. It was 8.30 AM. Kota was about seven hours from here. Would he drive for seven long hours? Well the Gautam she knew could do anything she thought with admiration. She caught herself. She was a nut case or developing strong symptoms of the Stockholm syndrome. She shook her head and sat on the passenger side in the front. She plugged in the headphones and played her favourite song list on the mobile. That way she wouldn’t have to talk to him. She didn’t even give him a glance as they drove through the streets of Alwar.

She must have dozed off listening to music and jerked up awake when the car stopped. She removed the ear plugs as her ears were aching. She checked her watch it was 11.30 AM. He had driven for 3 hours straight? Gautam didn’t give her a second glance and got out of the car. He looked around… what seemed to be a motel. There was nothing around besides that and it was terribly hot. She saw him walk to the Motel entrance and she too got out of the car. Her phone pinged with an incoming message. She wondered who it was. She had sent an email earlier from the car to her boss informing him she would not be coming for a while and would intimate him.  She didn’t know if she would have her job at the end of this ordeal but now that was the least of her worries. She checked her mobile and saw the incoming text from Senior Inspector, Crime Branch Tanveer Raisingh. Oh God what did he want now. In the entire commotion she had pushed him to the back of her mind. She opened the text.

‘Congratulations on the wedding Ms. Sengar or should I Say Mrs. Rathore? Please remember our discussion. You have to help me help Gautam….’

She wondered if she should speak to Gautam about everything that happened those years ago. But he had closed himself up so tightly she wondered how she could penetrate that hard hide…

Just then Gautam emerged from the motel and walked upto her. “Preeti if you want to use the washroom you may do so. I checked, It’s clean. We will be directly stopping for lunch after only another two hours. So if you want to eat something its here.”

She shook her head. She wasn’t hungry. But her bladder needed relief. He accompanied her inside the motel and directed her to the ladies washroom. He waited outside as she entered the washroom. She looked around and saw four tiny cubicles inside. All seemed empty. She went to the last one and relieved herself. Simultaneously she made a call and waited for it to connect. It was taking time and she was getting nervous by the passing seconds. As she finished washing her hands with the phone stuck between her ear and shoulder, the call connected. She again rushed back to the cubicle.

“Hello?” She whispered.

“Yes Ms. Sengar…I believe you got my message?” It was Tanveer Raisingh.

“Ye..yes… um I have something to tell you… quickly.”

“OK…please go on…Ms. Sengar.”

“We are on our way to Kota. I don’t know why? But I am somehow linked to this….” She said in a rush.

“…OK Ms Sengar I will put your phone on tracking and we will know your location. I will find out what I can. Meanwhile please act normal. He is too sharp and will figure out something is wrong.”

“Um Yes… but… Sir?”

“…I know Ms. Sengar… I know you are worried…But be rest assured your name won’t be taken at all… No one would know of your involvement…”

“..It’s… it’s not me I am worried about sir. No harm should come on Gautam as well…. Can you promise me?”

“Ms. Sengar, trust me I am on your side. I want him to be free from all suspicion. I promise I will do everything in my capacity to bring out the truth…”

“Ok Sir… bye…”

“Bye Ms. Sengar. Take care and call me anytime…..and…delete all our messages.”

She nodded to herself and cut the call. She washed her hands all over again and straightened her clothes. Giving a last look in the mirror she left. Gautam was pacing the reception area and halted when he saw her.

“I was about to send a search party after you. I had told you it’s so important to reach on time…” he sounded annoyed.

“…Sorry…it’s just …my tummy is bad…” She fibbed.

She must have been convincing. He shook his head and they headed outside towards their vehicle. She knew he had two other vehicles which were more spacious and comfortable but why he chose to travel with this one she had no clue. It looked a little rundown. It was an old model Wagon R. Nonetheless she sat and stared outside the passenger side window while he reversed and drove outside to join the highway.

“Gautam” he said after a while still looking ahead as he drove.

She was confused. “What?”

“Not Vikram. Call me Gautam… you were asking me back there…”

“Oh… it doesn’t make any difference…”

“…it does…” he cut her abruptly. “…It does to me”

She turned towards him. “Oh really? It didn’t make any difference to you when using it amidst my family… with Rewa didi…”

He was silent eyes on the road.

“By the way… where is Rewa Didi? And don’t tell me you have no idea…. I am sure you do.” Preeti folded her hands as she confronted him.

He didn’t answer again. Preeti waited for a few moments but he didn’t budge from his silent treatment of her.

Finally frustrated she turned away and continued watching the passing scenery.

After what seemed like ages he spoke. “She is fine…and happy.”

Preeti shot him a glance. He looked at her and then back on the road. “Your Rewa didi is absolutely fine and very happy too…”

“…but…where is she?”

“For Rewa home is where her heart lies… she is with Suyash. The girl deserves happiness after what she has gone through…” He sighed

Suddenly she was thrilled. Surprised, but very happy for her sister.

“You knew all this while that….”

“….yes I knew Preeti. In fact I had to orchestrate everything so that she would be with him. They were married by the way and will return to Alwar after few months….”

Oh that was such wonderful news. Her heart swelled…. Should she ask him about her last conversation with Rewa didi? He would shut down again. NO…she had to wait for the right time. She continued…

“… But why Gautam…? What did you want from all this?”

He looked at Preeti for a moment and spoke. “I got what I wanted…”

Preeti’s heart skipped a beat. She was thoroughly confused too. Her head had now started to pound with heat and start of hunger. Not to mention the anxiety after calling Tanveer Raisingh. She took in a deep breath. She felt happy for Rewa didi…

“Gautam…just one question…”

He sighed. “Yea…”

“Did you…did you ever…ever sleep with Rewa didi….I mean….” She looked away.

Gautam pulled over to the side of the highway and stopped the car. He looked at Preeti hurt evident on his face… She looked away blinking back tears.

“Preeti look here please…” She turned toward again, him tears threatening to fall any time. “…I always thought you trusted me. I don’t know why you even thought of something so absurd but NO… I didn’t sleep with Rewa… In fact I have not been or slept with anyone besides you, after I met you in the elevator that rainy morning…” She was crying openly. Was it relief? She didn’t know.

 “Preeti…it only been you… always…only you…”

Copyright Disclaimer: All content posted here is a work of fiction and original work based on the author’s imagination. There is no intention to disrespect any person or faith. Any resemblance to any person living or dead or any community is purely coincidental. No part of the content can be copied, reproduced or posted anywhere else either entirely or in parts, without the consent of the author.

Chapter 22

Preeti jerked up awake as the car came to a halt. She squinted her eyes open as she realised she was resting her head on Gautam’s chest and he had held her close. She looked up as the flood lights from the lawn landed on the car and she saw him looking into her eyes…his browns shining brightly as if they would burn her. Her chest tightened. She moved away from him towards the door of her side. She tried to open it but it had some complex system and she was too drowsy…her senses were scattered all over. He moved close to her and she held her breath. He almost touched her and she could feel his warm breath on her neck. He lingered there for a moment. She almost moaned willing him to kiss her right there in the crook of her neck. But the lock snapped open and he opened the car door. She came back to her senses, mentally berating herself for getting carried away. She had to control herself. She couldn’t give in to the passion….yea yea and wishes were horses….

She stepped out of the car and saw that she was back to the bungalow which she had visited with Rewa didi the day after she had come to Alwar. It was decorated with strings of lights from the outside. She checked her watch it was close to 2AM. Her stomach was growling and she realised she hadn’t eaten anything during the dinner. She was too overwhelmed with emotions at that time. Oh God what would she do now? She couldn’t sleep like that. She could never sleep on hungry stomach. She would cook up something, she thought. At least Gautam shouldn’t have a problem with that. Would Romila Devi be there? She shuddered. She despised the lady.

“Hungry…?” A deep voice spoke and she startled. Gautam had come up to her.

She nodded and said. “Um…can I cook something please?”

Gautam smiled…finally after ages. She longed to see it. It just melted her heart and the traitor tears sprang up in no time. She looked down and blinked. He lifted her chin with his forefinger. “Preeti…” he said softly turning her insides to mush. “…Go upstairs and change. Your bedroom is the one next to mine. Remember from last time? There are clothes in the closet in that room…. I will set up something for you meanwhile…”

Preeti didn’t know what to think about her situation. He had kept another room for her? That means they wouldn’t be sharing a bed? She should have been happy but her heart fell. At the same time she was touched by his gesture of feeding her.

She nodded and walked towards the main entrance of the house.

“Preeti?” he called out behind her and she turned around.

“There are just the two of us. Even the housekeeper isn’t going to come for a couple of days. So feel free to explore around and do what you want.” He said

Preeti stared at him for a moment as if registering every word he said. She gave him a brief nod and walked inside still feeling his eyes on her.

 As she passed the closet downstairs she remembered her ‘welcome home’ rendezvous with Gautam that day. She blushed as she felt her arousal slamming in again. How could she… in such a time? She entered the room she was forced into during her last visit. She wanted to get rid of her Lehenga choli and get into something comfortable. She opened the walk-in closet in the room and was surprised to see so many new clothes hung. They were a mix of formals and festive wear. She opened up the neighbouring cupboard and saw it filled with few bath towels, robes and a mix of camisoles and inner wear. Very similar to what she had at home. Had he arranged this for Rewa didi? She thought with a pang. She shook her head. She was too tired to analyse anything. She pulled out a peach camisole and a matching panty. She took out a peach bath robe. Then taking a towel she went to the attached bathroom. She went into the shower cubicle and worked around the settings till the hot water started to fall on her. As the water cascaded down from her head touching her breasts, knees and the feet, she felt the exhaustion drain away as well…the events of the day came back and with it a sob broke out. It was as if the dam within her burst. She placed her palms on the cubicle wall in front of her and hunched sobbing her heart out. She didn’t care if anyone heard her or not. She had subdued too much inside…for twelve years. She couldn’t hold on any more. She cried till there were no tears left. She then shampooed her hair and used the gel for her body. She then shut the tap and hugged the bath towel as she dried herself.

She walked to the vanity area in the corner of the room which had a dressing table with a mirror with beautifully crafted borders. She changed into the camisole and the panty. Both peach in colour and wore the peach bathrobe. She saw herself in the mirror. The full length sleeved robe was extremely comfortable. She would fall asleep if not hungry. Her stomach reminded her that she had to go downstairs. She was now exhausted from all the crying and dragged herself to the dining area near the kitchen. She halted in her steps seeing Gautam only in his towel. He was plating an omelette for her. Besides that was a glass of hot milk. She was an emotional wreck she thought as fresh tears made their way and she had to breathe in deeply to keep them away. He turned around and smiled at her gesturing to sit on the chair. As she did he placed the trey before her. He brought another trey for himself as he joined her and sat facing her.

She was famished with everything that had taken place and wolfed down the omelette. She drank the hot milk and it acted like a medicine to her injured soul. She felt calm and she rose to pick the trey. He held her hand. “Leave it. Go to bed… You need to take rest.” She looked into his eyes which were soft as they looked back. Before she would do anything that she would regret she turned around and went upstairs to her room. She shut the door but didn’t latch it. She kept her mobile phone which had discharged completely, on the side table.  She left only the bedside lamp on and as soon as her head hit the pillow she was fast asleep.

‘the man in the mask was crouching towards her… she tried to move backwards but her head hit the bed stand behind. Oh no… there was no escape. He came closer and she saw his eyes… blue eyes…Oh God Oh God…was the monster blue eyed? She was silent and shaking with fear. She couldn’t scream, couldn’t move a bit. He pinned her to the bed…’princess’ he called out to her again and chuckled. The sound made her cringe in disgust. She was crying… she was helpless and hated the feeling. She wanted to hold the reins. Just as her Bapu would say to Rohit… But Rohit was no more. She cried louder for her brother… The monster was holding her but suddenly he was gone and someone was calling her… Preeti… someone was shaking her… why? She wanted to sleep… really? Sleep in that hellhole? What was wrong with her… Preeti…Someone called again… she shook her head…’

“…Preeti wake up dear… Preeti…?”

Preeti woke up disoriented. The light in her room was switched on and Gautam was sitting next to her on the bed and looking at her with worry in his eyes. He was in his boxers. She looked at his torso and saw some red welt like marks there. She sat up straight as he kept the pillows behind her. She had taken off her robe before sleeping. She took up the blanket close to her chin and looked away.

“Preeti… did you have the nightmare again?” He asked softly.

She just nodded. She turned to him and asked. “Was I …um…was I too loud? Did I disturb …you?” She couldn’t stop the tears. He palmed her cheeks and she couldn’t control her emotions any more. Modesty being damned she sprang into his arms and buried her head in his neck as she sobbed. He held her to his chest and tightened his grip around her and gently rubbed her back. She didn’t know how long he held her giving her kisses on her head.

She moved away and covered herself with the blanket again.

“Th…Thanks… It felt good.” She tried to smile.

“Want me to be here?” He asked her.

She was tempted to say yes. But she shook her head. “No…thanks. I am fine now… really.”

He nodded and left the room. She went back to sleep with all the lights on this time. She started at the closed door… What were those red marks on his beautiful body? They weren’t there when she had met him for the late snack downstairs. She tossed and turned for a while her brain working overtime. How would she be able to control herself around him? Why did Narmada tell her that he needed her? Would she ever know what was troubling him? Would she ever know about what exactly had happened that day twelve years ago?

 But finally when sleep claimed her she could hear only one song in her mind’s ears… her all-time favourite….

‘ Na hai ye paana, na khona hi hai….. tumse hi din rota hai…surmai sham aati hai…tum se hi…tum se hi….’

Copyright Disclaimer: All content posted here is a work of fiction and original work based on the author’s imagination. There is no intention to disrespect any person or faith. Any resemblance to any person living or dead or any community is purely coincidental. No part of the content can be copied, reproduced or posted anywhere else either entirely or in parts, without the consent of the author.

Chapter 21

‘…He held her hands… he smelled of acrid smoke… his masked face blurred as it approached her to bite her lips. What was he doing here now twelve years later? He was dead isn’t it? She wanted to call Gautam…where was he? She wanted to scream… she tried but her vocal cords had frozen. Oh that voice again… ‘Princess’ he referred to her as princess…no one called her that except Rewa didi…when she was angry with her… she hated that Preeti had learnt to shoot by bulldozing her father… Rewa didi called her Papa’s Princess…. But how did this man… this monster know that?

Suddenly she was shoved… her mother was calling her…what was her mother doing here in this Godforsaken place?… ‘Preeti… Preeti beta…’

“…Preeti beta… wake up… Preeti…?” someone was calling out to her… he mother… Preeti woke up with a start her head pounding. What was she doing in her Lehenga choli in this room…no… pandal? She then remembered it was Rewa didi’s wedding today evening. Everything rushed back and she held her throbbing temples. Rewa didi was saying something… She looked up to see her mother and tayiji  looking at her with a strange expression.  He mother sat next to her and asked, “Where is Rewa beta?”

What? Wait… Rewa didi was right here… She checked her wrist watch which she always wore irrespective of her attire. It was 9.30 PM… an hour since they had reached there.  How long was she sleeping? She looked at her mother. “Ma… Didi was right here… and she…”

“…where is she gone beta.? We have been searching for last ten minutes now… and… why were you sleeping like that…?” Her tayiji was sounding frantic. “…It’s …it’s almost time now for the muhurat… Oh Mataji….where is this girl?” Her tayiji leaned against one of the bamboos supporting the pandal.  Suddenly she heard footsteps and her father rushed in.

“Priyamvada, bhabhisa… where is Rewa. Vikram is already seated and panditji has commenced the rituals. We have to take the bride…. What…?” he looked at each of them. “…what happened? Priyamvada… what is it..?

Her mother stood and went to her father and said, “…um…Rewa is missing…”

“WHAT…?” Her father bellowed startling all of them. He looked at Preeti . “Where is your sister Preeti…? Have you done something that you were not supposed to do?”

What? What was her father saying?

“Bapu, I was… I don’t know how I slept off… may be just fifteen-twenty minutes…. Rewa didi was right here…”

“…Stop…not a word of nonsense…. You are very good at making up stories… Just tell us where is Rewa…?”

He was shaking in anger.

Her mother intervened. “…she is telling the truth… She was lying here… um… unconscious…”

Unconscious? Oh God… it must be the ginger ale she had… should she tell this to her father? It would make no difference to him. He wouldn’t believe her at all.  

There was some commotion outside and Romila Devi entered the pandal. She looked annoyed. “What the hell is happening? Where is the bride?” She looked around the small area with disdain.

Her father spoke softly, “Bhabhi sa, Our daughter is not to be found… I am sure she must be around… we are looking for her….”

“…WHAT? Are you insane? I always had a doubt about your daughter. She didn’t have any qualities to suit my family. I only agreed because of the….” She glared at her father.

Her father, mother and tayiji all joined their palms. Her father’s head was bowed. It killed Preeti to watch her family getting humiliated. She stood rooted to the ground.

Where are you Rewa didi? Please come before all hell breaks loose…

“…What is the use of standing like this? You couldn’t control your daughter and now she has run away…. What an insult in front of so many guests… Listen…if this wedding doesn’t take place today, Sengar family… the ENTIRE clan will pay for this… I will see to it that you will be doomed. Sengar Enterprises will be finished….” Romila Devi kept screaming her face contorted with anger. Immediately her tayaji rushed in, followed by Gautam.

Preeti stared at Gautam with her jaw handing down. He looked terrific in the traditional groom’s outfit. She blocked out everyone and was only looking at him. That always happened whenever he was around. The world always faded away…

Her head was hurting so badly she was in tears but more so because of Rewa and her confessions… did Rewa actually say all that or was she hallucinating?  She wiped her cheeks and looked at her family. They were trying to convince Romila Devi while Gautam too tried to pacify his mother.

Her father finally declared. “…In that case there is only one option. The wedding has to take place or else… we will be doomed…” He looked at Preeti. “…our other daughter will marry Vikram…” Then looking back at Romila Devi he asked “…is that alright with you…?”

Preeti only stared as Romila Devi walked towards her and looked at her from head to toe. She then looked at her father and said “…Yes… I will settle for her. She is average but will do… Get her out fast…the ceremony has to start at the given time…” She sashayed her way out of the pandal. Gautam stood there with a wide based stance, hands folded.

There was a moment of silence after which her father spoke. “Priyamvada. Get Preeti ready. We just have five minutes….”

“…Wait…No…Bapu…No don’t do this… Please….” Preeti wailed.

 Her father gave her a once over and then looking at his wife walked away from the pandal.

Preeti was breathing heavily with a mix of emotions that she couldn’t fathom. But most of it was anger. “No Ma… JUST NO. I can’t do this. I am going to Mumbai right now. I made a mistake coming here…. And you can’t force me…”

Her mother opened her mouth to speak when Gautam spoke. “Auntyji, let me talk to Preeti. You all wait outside please…”

Her mother paused as if she wasn’t happy with his remark. But her tayiji touched her shoulder and they both left together… Her heart broke to see them like that but her situation was no different. Anger simmering inside she glared at Gautam.

He seemed unfazed as he came near her. “Look Preeti I don’t care if you walk out just like this with me. You don’t have to change clothes if you don’t want to….But hurry up. Time is running out.” He spoke in a cool and composed tone.

Preeti was now breathing heavily with anger. “Who the hell do you think you are? First you cheat me and then my family. I am not going anywhere but Mumbai. I care a damn about all of you…”

“…You are coming with me straight on to the stage for OUR wedding.” He spoke with his hands folded

“…IN YOUR DREAMS MISTER…” she yelled tears streaming down.

He casually came close to her and wiped her tears even as she tried to pull away. He spoke in a threateningly soft tone. “Just a minute Preeti… Let me remind you, your family’s happiness is now in your hands. In fact not just happiness…their survival as well… If you don’t come with me at this very moment and get married to me then I will withdraw the investment with Sengar Enterprises with immediate effect. The loan sharks will capture your Haveli… just think where will you folks then go? What will happen to the ailing Maasa….”

“….No…you won’t do it Gautam… I know you won’t…” she almost whispered.

“…I will my dear…I surely will. So come out with me right now and get married…”

“…Gautam…please don’t do this. I have a life in Mumbai…. Don’t ruin my life like this… I can’t be stuck in a marriage… without love… please Gautam…” she cried.

“Hey…don’t worry…” he said with a smirk. “…I won’t be holding you up all your life. You will stay married to me only for six months. After which you will be free to go… wherever you want to…”

“…what the hell…what are you saying Gautam…?”

“…exactly what you heard… So now put that odhni on your head and come out with me… We are getting late. If my mother loses her cool then even I won’t be able to salvage the situation.”

He held his palm up and she placed her hand in it.  He pulled up the odhni lying on the floor. Rewa must have dropped it there… He put it on her head covering her face and dragged her out behind him.

Preeti went through the motions of the rituals in a daze. Frequently, tears blinded her eyes but she blinked them away. Everything was like a dream…or should she call it a nightmare? She had been through so many nightmares for last twelve years…she should have been used to it by now.. But her heart sank as the panditji pronounced them man and wife. It was then she raised her head as Gautam lifted the covering and put the vermillion on her forehead marking her as his wife. He then put the mangalsutra studded by the Rajputana stones. She blinked seeing their allure…but not able to make out the feelings in her heart. She had waited for this moment… maybe for twelve years. But not like this. She wanted nothing more than to be his wife till she landed in Bhivadi…it’s when the tables had turned. At the moment she didn’t know what to make out of it. She loved him with all her heart she knew that…but this was a marriage of convenience which was not to last more than six months. Their marriage was a one sided love affair. Did Rewa didi run away because of the same reason? Did Gaitam arrange for all this? Where was Rewa didi? Preeti knew for sure Gautam didn’t do anything without a purpose… She knew she would definitely get out of this bond after six months. Oh God she was just married and she was already talking about her divorce…. She had surely lost it. At the end of everything she just hoped her heart would be unscathed…

 The wedding ceremony went late into the night. She didn’t even know when the other rituals had taken place… Did her family perform them? Like the Tilak dastoor, Pithi dastoor , Palla dastoor…. All a couple of days prior to the wedding. Were they done? This marriage was such a quick affair…she doubted they were. She wondered why Romila Devi permitted such a breach of protocol lapse. Probably vested interests were of a greater weightage. Anyways she shouldn’t be bothered now. This marriage for her was a farce… a six month arrangement. Oh yes…she had to tell that to her heart….

The Vidaai was a low key affair. It was as if her folks couldn’t wait to leave the premises. Only Maasa and her mother cried. Others were indifferent. As per the custom, Yash was supposed to accompany her to her marital home. But he was nowhere to be found. She didn’t expect anything from her family anyways…What the hell was happening? Her cousins decided to disappear on the same day… was it why Rewa didi had called her to Alwar? Was this all pre-planned?

A beaming Narmada in tears came upto her and held her hands. “I am so happy bhai made this decision. Thank you for agreeing to this marriage….” She then hugged Preeti and said in her ears. “…take care of him bhabhisa… he needs you…”

Preeti blinked at her in surprise but then there was no time to ponder over her words.

Her family led her to the decorated car of the groom. Romila Devi gave a snide smile and went with her guests in one of their vehicles as if she wasn’t concerned with the rituals. Narmada was escorted by her husband who greeted everyone with folded hands and then they left in their vehicle.

As she sat in the backseat of the decorated Preeti she looked into the rare view mirror to see her minimal makeup spread all over her face. Somehow it reflected her life right now…. A total mess…

Gautam sat next to her and was soon busy with his phone, as if she didn’t exist. She moved close to the door and stared at the passing scenery all a dark picture with few night lights twinkling in a distance.

She was so terribly drained out that she slept within moments listening to the car stereo playing the song, ‘dushman na kare dost ne who kaam kiya hai….’

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3t3NTXGXyPA

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