Chapter 43

Ria was treading on eggshells when Gaurav was around. Her anxiety had touched the ceiling in these two days and she had been extra clumsy when Gaurav was at home. For instance, last night at dinner she had dropped the serving ladle four times throughout and just couldn’t ingest a single morsel with his hawk eyes trained on her, watching her every tiny bit of movement and expression. She had added extra spoons of sugar to her coffee which she had prepared post dinner… and had to discard it. This morning she had startled as she had heard him enter the drawing room for breakfast and had dropped the ceramic cup and saucer unit on the table spilling the hot coffee on the parathas kept for him. He hadn’t said a word and just walked back into his room. He had left for office soon without the breakfast and she had texted Karuna to see that he took it in office. Her guilt weighed her down so terribly it was getting directly proportional to her apprehensiveness… and that had risen to epic proportions. Gaurav too wasn’t his normal self and barely spoke to her in the last two days. They had dinner together and retired to their respective rooms after he got back from work. Keith too was behaving strangely quiet. She tried making small talk with him but he barely responded. She missed Gaurav terribly but she also missed her camaraderie with Keith. What was brewing here?

Today she was to meet the lady in the mall. After Gaurav left for work, she told Keith about visiting the mall for shopping. He however only nodded and returned back to his cooking. Ria wanted to shake him and make him talk to her but currently she had other priorities so she just sighed and went back to her room. She was very anxious about hearing so-called secrets about her husband though this time, she was better prepared. Somehow, she was not ready to accept that he was some low life criminal. She had known him enough for what felt like a lifetime. Irrespective of his mood swings she couldn’t believe he would be even remotely violent…let alone kill someone in cold blood.

She had made up her mind. She trusted him wholeheartedly, irrespective of the contrary evidence she found today. She hoped she could prevent anything untoward happening to him. She loved him too much to be a bystander as he got caught in any kind of judicial whirlwind. She had to know the enemy well before she could do something for him.

Keith drove her to the mall by 10.30A and she shopped at a ceramic store for replacing the crockery she had broken… while being vigilant about Keith’s location. He always followed them even when she was with Gaurav, but she could never see him. However, the last time she had been out with Preeti to help her with her wedding shopping, she had seen him stealthily watching them from behind the newspaper as he had tried to camouflage himself in the crowd. Even last week when she had been to the local hardware store to select the tiles for her center, she had seen him check out the perimeter and make himself invisible but then she had known his position immediately… She chuckled holding the intricately designed cup towards the light pretending to check it out as she saw Keith standing behind the large panel right outside the shop. She was getting good at this!

At 11AM sharp she sat in the last corner table as told in the message. She took out her novel and pretended reading it as she sipped her fresh lime soda. She knew Keith was somewhere around watching her… but this time though she felt his eyes on her she couldn’t make him out and she didn’t want to call for attention. She tried to act casual though she was a bundle of nerves inside. Just like the lady had messaged, the small restobar got filled with student crowd. Only the seat across hers was available for the shaky old lady who walked in wearing a green gown, with a huge bag in one hand and a walking sick in the other. She looked around as if searching for a seat and then came up to her.

“Hello dear…” the lady spoke in a shaky voice. “…may I sit here?” She gestured to the empty seat across Ria.

“Yes sure…” Ria spoke softly. She tried to keep her expression as neutral as possible.

The old lady…at least that’s what she looked like… pretended to glance on the menu. She had placed her bag on the outer edge of the table. She held the menu card with her right hand and slowly put out her left hand ahead. It had a packet. It was concealed by the Menu card on the top and a huge bag on the left. No one would have noticed. Ria shifted her book to her right hand and bent forward. She slowly took the packet from the lady and slipped it into her bag kept beside her on her seat. She then continued to sip her soda. The old lady had ordered tea and sandwich and gestured as though offering Ria. To anyone else watching them it would have looked like two strangers being cordial to one another.

Ria nodded and accepted a small sandwich part. As she ate the old lady spoke gesturing around as if she was talking about the weather.

“My… name is Sujata Chaudhry. The packet contains proof about the kind of a monster he is. He had lured my sister, married her, and then she got pregnant. But he had a roving eye and often cheated on her. She went into depression and soon became a liability for him. He killed her… actually burnt her alive…. She was six months pregnant with their child. …” The lady sighed to control her emotions. “…. We had a witness to the heinous crime. Everything fell into place and Gaurav was to go away for a long time… but fate had other ideas. The witness tuned hostile all of a sudden and refused to complete his testimony. He was dismissed and Gaurav’s lawyers spun the case around in his favor. He spent only six goddamn months in prison… But Ria… you have a sister too… so you will understand these emotions… he… that man…he deserves to rot in hell for what he did to my sister. My father had died long ago and mother died with the shock of my sister’s death. I became an orphan overnight….” she wiped her tears and pretended to laugh as though telling a joke. Ria was shocked to hear everything but pretended to smile…if she had thought keeping up the pretense before Gaurav was tough this took the prize. And this woman knew about her… everything about her… how come…?

The lady continued. “…. when that man was acquitted, I made it my life’s ambition to find ways to punish him. I moved to Pune last year. I had a business in Dubai which I had to wind up. I couldn’t stay there anymore…. My sister was an innocent …just like you. She fell for the wrong guy and paid with her life. I don’t want that happening to you… She was convenient for Gaurav, his Casanova lifestyle and whatever crap he was into. What he didn’t expect was for her to get inquisitive about his…er… extra marital activities. My sister would call mom and cry for hours on the phone… about the ways he would torture her. My mom would tell her to stay in the marriage, to hang on. Marriage was sacred she used to say… I wish my sister had told me… I would have gotten her divorced. At least she would be alive. Her pregnancy was the last straw. Her torture increased. She stopped meeting us altogether. And then….one day a neighbor called us about smoke coming out of their house. She was dead before we knew it. Charred beyond recognition… we lost her…”

Ria had seen the pictures. She nodded and just then her phone buzzed. It was a private number… It was either Gaurav or her uncle and she was in no mood to speak with either of them…. She couldn’t show her weakness now. She disconnected the call and checked the time. It was over an hour in the mall now and Keith would get suspicious. Ria rose and shook hands with the old lady. “…I…um… I have to leave now… its getting late…” The lady nodded in understanding.

Ria was quiet on the ride home and Keith didn’t speak either. She came home and shut herself in her room opening the packet given to her by the lady. It had similar articles and photos like in the pen drive. All evidence available pointed to Gaurav’s role in murdering his wife…. She immediately hid them in the corner of the drawer in her wardrobe.

Somehow… Ria was not convinced and her intuition told her the real story was something totally different. The lady who acted weird didn’t mention anything about the recent court case…. But she knew a lot of Ria’s personal information… it was clear she was fed the information. But who would do it? Sujata would have surely followed the court case…. Ria had always known Gaurav was framed in the recent case and she had always known there was a lot more than what was projected. Swara too now seemed like a pawn and the poor woman was dead… or was she killed…? Sujata may be accusing Gaurav because she had lost her sister. It was way too personal. But her uncle…. why would he blame Gaurav? Her uncle never spoke anything without being sure about it. Ria was getting a headache… She wanted this to be a bad dream…

Her mobile pinged with an incoming message. It was from Sujata.

‘Nice to meet you dear. I hope you saw the evidence. Leave that man. He doesn’t deserve you. I worry about you dear. Take care.’

Ria didn’t want to reply to her. She ignored the message and was lost in thought. Once again, her mobile buzzed with an incoming message. It was Sujata again.

“If you need any help to leave that bastard, let me know. I will arrange what is necessary. We have to take our revenge….  Get whatever you can lay your hands on. Any file, folders, pen drives…anything. Call me soon.”

The incongruity of the situation intrigued her. She was now surer than ever of Gaurav’s innocence all those years ago. She found so many loopholes in the stories mentioned in the articles, she wondered why her uncle didn’t catch them. Maybe his judgment was clouded by his love for his niece. But her verdict was further tilting in Gaurav’s favor…was it because she loved him? No, it was more than that. She believed in him.

She had made her decision, once for all…

That evening Ria prepared Gaurav’s favorite dinner of paneer butter masala and naan, as an amused Keith looked on. She wanted to break the ice and talk to Gaurav today… actually talk. She wanted him to trust her…to be able to tell her about his past. But most of all she wanted to come clean about what she had been shown and told. She was worried for his safety and wanted to warn him about the possible danger…

Gaurav came home earlier than usual looking very exhausted. He only nodded at Keith who couldn’t wait to leave as soon as he arrived. What the hell…? Ria smiled at him and went to the kitchen to heat up the dinner and then got busy laying the table and his favorite spread, while he was in his room freshening up. She looked up and saw him standing across the table in his polo neck t shirt and black trackpants, staring at her with a blank expression….but the pandemonium in his eyes not hidden from her. She forced a smile and said, ” Um… why don’t we have dinner…I have…prepared your favorite paneer….”

“…I am NOT hungry Ria. I don’t want anything….” He abruptly stopped her mid-sentence and picking up a water bottle, started walking towards his room.

Ria ran on the other side of the table and held his hand to stop him. “…wa…Wait….Gaurav… please …don’t do this…”

He shook her hand off. “…Don’t do what Ria?” He stared her down.

Ria was an emotional wreck for a while now and she wasn’t able to take it anymore. “P… please have your dinner… ” she whispered.

“…or what? You will complain to uncle dearest or…wait a minute…to the CBI…?” He said with a stern voice and hands on his hips. Though his tone was of anger his eyes were full of hurt. Then before she could say anything he continued, “…oh no …no…wait… you have other well-wishers, too… namely Miss Sujata Chaudhry sister of Mrs. Shilpi Chaudhry-Chopra. So… did she give you some special tips…? How to live with a monster of a husband or even better… send him to jail…?” He was breathing heavily and his hand fisted in his sides.

Ria closed her eyes. So, he knew about her uncle and her meeting with Sujata. She whispered, “…That’s…that’s not fair…”

“You know whatis not fair Ria…?” He spoke suddenly startling her. “…Getting conned into a marriage is not fair… Getting cheated by your spouse is not fair….” He started walking closer towards her. “…Losing your career for which you have slogged your guts out is not fair… Losing your family’s trust in spite of your innocence is not fair…” He came even closer, almost touching her and she hit the wall behind. He spoke with emotion clogging his throat, “… Spending time… in prison… for NO fault of yours is… not fair. Being looked down with contempt…. blasphemed all the time… again, for NO fucking fault of yours is NOT FAIR...” His voice broke as he kept his hands on the wall on either side of her face and bent down till, he was so close she could feel his breath. She closed her eyes. He whispered. “…and… not being trusted by the… by the woman you love more than life itself….is JUST NOT FAIR…”

He loved her… oh God Almighty… finally…

As his words sank in she was beginning to savor the moment …when she felt wetness on her cheeks. She immediately opened her eyes and saw that he had bent his head hunched over her and was crying with his eyes closed. That broke her heart so much and she lifted her hands to cup his cheeks. He opened his eyes and abruptly moved back as if jolted out of his reverie. Her hands dropped to her sides. He was breathing heavily and turned his back towards her.

She knew it was now or never. “…I never ever doubted you Gaurav…” she said loud enough for him to hear. “…But…I need to know the truth. The real truth… about the man I love, greatly respect and believe in…”

He abruptly turned around. “…What…what did you just say…?”

Ria went up to him and cupped his face and this time he didn’t move away. “…Gaurav…in case it hasn’t been obvious all this time…I just said, I… love you. We all have our baggage Gaurav… But I trust you enough…. that you will tell me about your past someday… Your story, your truth… I will wait for that…”

Gaurav slammed his mouth on hers and kissed her hard. It was as if he was unleashing pent up emotion in that kiss. She was overwhelmed too and put her arms around his neck and kissed him back. After what seemed like an eternity, he lifted his head up and hugged her. He kissed her head. They stood like that for a while. He then held her at an arm’s length and said, “…uh…Ria…I…I don’t deserve you… but… but it killed me to think that you …would leave me….”

Ria shut him by keeping a finger on his lips. With tears she said, “I am NOT going anywhere…even if you push me away. This marriage… this has always been real for me…. I …I… love you. With all my heart…”

He held her hand and pulled her to him.

“…I love you too darling…always have…tried not to… but…I find myself in you… I love you so much it hurts…” He kissed her again. But this time it was gentle. He lifted her as he continued to kiss and took her towards his bedroom. He dropped her on the bed but didn’t take off her clothes. He just released her salwar and tore off her panties. He opened his trouser, freed his cock. He positioned himself above her. Seeing his intensity Ria was so overwhelmed she closed her eyes reveling in the moment. She too needed this, so much like her next breath…

“…Open your eyes Ria… I want to watch those beautiful almonds when you come”. She almost climaxed just hearing those words. Before she thought about anything, he slammed into her and went still. His face was contorted as he looked at her. He slid out and slammed in again and again…. grunting with some kind of raw energy. Finally, she came with a loud cry and he emptied himself into her as he screamed out hoarsely …”…I-LOVE-YOU-RIIAAA…”. He fell on top of her and she held him tightly to her not wanting to let him go.

As they came down from their pinnacle, he lay on his back and stared at the ceiling. She lay in his arms on her side facing him and drawing patterns on his shirt.

“…Ria…” he uttered softly.

“Hmm…?” she was too satiated to say anything.

“…I …I want to…tell you everything…uh… about my past…” He said.

She raised herself on her elbow to look at him. “You don’t have to tell me anything now if it troubles you…. You take your time… but just remember…I love you…all of you. Your past will not change anything…“

 He sat up straight. He stood and went towards his bedroom window.

“No Ria… you are my wife…. My best friend… my li…life… Your trust means the world to me. It’s…just that…. I am a package. My past is ugly…I… I am… ugly. You may not like what you hear and…see. But….but…its time…I think you should know. …” He turned towards her and without giving an eye contact he continued, “…If…if…if you chose to le..le..leave me…. I won’t stop you….”  He sighed and started pacing slowly.

Ria sat still waiting for his turmoil to boil and overflow… he needed his space too to vent out and she was giving his just that…

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 42

Ria was in a confronting mode… she spoke to herself to pep her up even as her eyes filled and she had to shut her eyes taking in deep breaths to keep them at bay. Her gut feeling told her Gaurav was not in the wrong but probably was himself wronged. She visited the terrace garden to be amidst nature for a while and went back to her room and switched on her laptop. She inserted the pen drive given by her uncle…and with trembling hands she clicked on the first file.

The next hour Ria was immersed in reading the contents of the pen drive. It had four files and she opened each one reading each and every line. There were newspaper cuttings, online news articles, pictures of his partying, pictures of his marriage… Pictures of a glowing mother to be… pictures of a charred body… and pictures of his arrest with a hood covering his head as he was led away by the police. Ria shuddered as she saw it.

There were articles on the trial too. All led to the fact that Gaurav was the killer and he was to face a tough sentence. Suddenly the lead witness turned hostile and Gaurav was acquitted. There were many follow up articles from a couple of other newspapers which painted him a villain. Ria rubbed her eyes as she read the last article…

‘The secret life of the Chopra group scion‘

The article mentioned his love for flamboyance, BDSM… unnatural sex and portrayed another side of him. The clinical psychologist who had been interviewed said something about the subconscious interference in his day to day life and the practice may have created a monster. Apparently, Gaurav suffered from some kind of a psychological condition where he couldn’t separate real and virtual. The article also spoke about the need to contain such people in shackles and institutionalized as they posed a massive danger to the society and women at large.

Surprisingly Ria wasn’t crying instead her blood boiled and she was analytical. She wanted to view everything with a clear mind.

As Ria closed the laptop she remembered the moments spent with Gaurav before and after their marriage. Though he was mean towards her before the rainy night he had never demonstrated any kind of behaviour mentioned in those articles. She herself belonged to a field where she was trained to identify such behaviours… That particular night had changed everything. Was it all a show as her uncle said?

She remembered that day at the bungalow … when she had suggested they stay in the same room. He had been angry all of a sudden and spoken in a terse voice that she had not heard before. Then the red room… it had terrified her. But he had been understanding and had never brought up the topic again. He had taken care of her when she was injured. He had been a caring husband…. all through their marriage so far. How could someone be so fake? No… She thought aloud…her conscience pushed her to believe in him. She sighed and stood up to use the washroom when she suddenly remembered the texts she had received in the first couple of days of her marriage. The text had warned her too. Everyone spoke about Gaurav’s secrets. Besides, there was this issue of him not sharing a bed after sex… not sleeping with her through the night. She was yet to see him unclad …for crying out aloud.

Then… there were those nightmares…

Her husband was indeed a mystery. It was time she found out the truth about him, especially now that his past was to be raked up in a very horrid manner if Chitthappa was to be believed. Gaurav didn’t still seem to be ready to share anything as yet and she had to know so-called facts from other avenues before coming to any judgement of her own. It was now important for her to start with a blank palate and fill it with her own colour combinations.

Ria scanned through her SMS history and unblocked that number. She then messaged,

‘Does the offer still stand?’

Immediately there was a reply…

‘Thank God. Yes, it does.’

Ria typed,

‘Shall we meet then?’

After what seemed ages there was a reply,

“yes… meet me the day after tomorrow at the central mall food court at 11AM. It’s busy at that time. Come to the Pick me up restobar, take the table at the left corner and order a fresh lime soda. An old woman in green will join you as the place gets full. I will arrange for it. That entourage of yours won’t suspect a thing. “

That was planned well, Ria thought

‘Fine … see you day after @ 11AM’

Finally, the sender had typed,

‘yes… and please delete these messages for your own safety’

Ria shuddered as she deleted the message thread. Was she doing the right thing? Was she actually suspecting her husband? She felt anything but virtuous at the moment…even as Swara’s words kept ringing in her ears… and a surge of insinuation ran through her body and she eventually went to bed with the feeling laying heavy on her heart.

That night as she slept, she heard a soft tentative knock and she knew it was him. A quick glance at her cell phone told her it was 3AM. She pretended to sleep…though the only thing she desired… was to be in his arms. He didn’t knock again and she slept off again after a long time, tears soaking her pillow as she did… her heart broke into a zillion pieces.

The next morning Ria woke up at 8AM wondering how she would face him today. A look at her swollen eyelids in the washroom vanity mirror made her wonder if he would doubt her? As far as she was concerned, he read her like an open book. She hoped she could hide her emotions from him for a couple of days at least…she had to be strong if eventually she had to get deep into this mess and unearth the truth. She joined him for breakfast and gave him a bright smile. She sat away from him across the table getting busy with the motions of scanning through the newspaper or making small talk with him trying to keep up their regular camaraderie. His eyes followed her movements from the go but he barely spoke to her.  She asked him about his trip… He brushed aside the topic and kept staring at her as she picked at her food. She was hiding her heart but discovered she didn’t have the skills for it, not when she was riddled with anxiety and she was split wide open.

After breakfast Ria excused herself saying she had to work on finalizing designs for her center and left for her room. Thankfully Gaurav didn’t stop her and he soon left for work too.

***************************************************************************

Something was amiss…. drastically fallacious… with Ria’s demeanour.

Gaurav mulled over what had ensued that morning … in fact well before that, as he stared into the laptop screen at work. For the last hour he hadn’t done anything constructive at all. He had postponed a couple of important meetings and since Karuna was back from sick leave she handled the rescheduling like a pro. At least something was going well for him. The hospital was all set to get a special humanitarian award which would increase the share price and also lure the best practitioners to join their other branches… something he always wanted. The charity surgeries were being talked about often but he saw to it that the hospital name in general was out and not his. He would now get some more funding for the noble cause. He had first got the news yesterday in Kolkata and had immediately wanted to share it with Ria… He had been thrilled and wanted to celebrate with her especially since he planned to cut short his visit and surprise her at night. But she hadn’t answered her phone or replied to his messages and then Keith had told him about her being upset…

Though Ria tried to keep up a facade of normalcy before him, he knew something was troubling Ria. He only wished he knew how to find out… Keith was trying too but couldn’t do more without making her suspicious. He had mentioned about her ‘uncle’ being there when he had dropped Ria at her home yesterday. He had apparently spoke to a nosy curious neighbour who was only too willing to spill information about Ria’s family and the new visitor. Ria had informed him earlier evening about visiting her parents but failed to mention the uncle…. Did she do it on purpose or was she clueless as well…? She was a different person today. Gaurav knew about her relationship with her parents well by now and though she missed them occasionally, she wouldn’t be affected by them to this extent. The uncle had something to do with it and he was sure now. He had to find out…  After an hour of trying unsuccessfully he called Manek.

“Ya….” Manek answered. He sounded haggard.

“What’s up buddy? You sound like shit.” Gaurav chided. He knew Manek was a new father and was struggling with the sleepless nights. Megha was suffering from Low BP after a tough labor. He felt like a jerk for troubling him…but he could think of no one else.

“Go fuck yourself buddy… (yawn)… so what is it…?” Manek asked sounding sleepy.

“I need some classified information…on Ria’s paternal uncle. I have only managed to find out a first name. Ashok. Ria doesn’t have any active social media accounts. Naren is MIA so got his right hand man here to get on it but needed you to cross verify as well… I got a grainy picture from Pooja’s social media page. I am sending it on your email address. Can you help out on this …?”

“… I will get to it (yawn) immediately. Naren is here in Delhi working on your case man…and that’s a blessing… I will coordinate with him…Give me an hour… two max….”

“… Oh great… thank God…Ya… thanks. I know you will do it. Call me when you are done. I will make it up to you man!” Gaurav rubbed his face.

“Ya…I will hold on to that the next time this little bundle wakes up fresh at 2AM. Her Gaurav uncle can pacify her…”

“Ok…ok…” Gaurav chuckled, “I give up…bye…”

He disconnected the call and saw Manek’s profile picture. He had held his day old daughter  and proudly stared into the camera. Gaurav wondered if he would ever get that chance… would he be a good example for his child. As soon as he thought about a child, a picture of a heavily pregnant Ria swam before his eyes… and he rubbed his face again as pangs of desolation clutched his heart.

He had to settle this unseen tension between them…then open up his life before her. She deserved to know…everything. But could he handle her rejection? No… He didn’t think so. He shuddered at the very thought.

The hour long wait for Manek’s call was a test of his patience. He paced across the room in his office when not going through his reports… He almost called Ria about ten times. Each time, he stopped the call even before it connected. He knew Manek-Naren combo would find out information for him. Meanwhile he was drowning in despair…

Soon his phone rang….it was Manek.

“Hmm…” he answered.

“You are not going to like this…”

“…just tell me” He was impatient.

“Her uncle is Ashok Chandran… a decorated CBI officer mostly involved in highly classified missions….”

Gaurav’s heart was thumping. This definitely couldn’t be good…

Manek continued “…He was the batch mate of… Lieutenant Abdul Ansari… when they were training in high combat years ago in the US. On returning to India, he joined CBI after a brief stint with the CRPF. Rather he was selected due to his super tactical skills and he mostly works undercover. Abdul Ansari apparently returned back to his country Dubai and joined their police force…special crimes… does it light a bulb?”

Of course, it did. Abdul Ansari was the chief investigation Officer when he was almost convicted. He still remembered Ansari’s thunderous reaction when he was acquitted… the man had declared he would find Gaurav from any corner of earth he would disappear to and destroy him… Gaurav started to palpitate like he always did whenever he remembered or dreamed about those days.

“…Gaurav… you there…?”  Maneks voice got him back on track.

“Go on…” he whispered.

“… it’s like this. The uncle gets in touch with Ansari’s office clandestinely when he finds out about your link in Dubai. Being in CBI and known to Ansari has its perks… Ansari’s office gives him, dirt on you. Both…the documents as well as his very colourful personal opinion of you… Uncle returns home and meets Ria. Now, I am sure something must have happened or you wouldn’t have called me. …you need to watch your six, buddy… be careful. The uncle is one determined soul. I spoke to someone on Ansari’s team…. confidentiality maintained of course and off the record. What he said was not good. Ansari is planning vengeance to somehow get you in trouble…just like he promised… Naren is digging deeper to check other connections… I will need to look more into this…”

Gaurav stared into space as he heard Manek.

“…Just so you must know, Sujata…Your…er… wife Shilpi’s sister has been in Pune for a while now over a year actually… She has been asking around and digging dirt. Naren got an alert on the search engine activity two weeks ago and yesterday as well. You need to pull up your socks man…. Tell Keith to be vigilant…. I will be there ASAP. Naren had posted extra men outside your high-rise…We will handle this…don’t worry. Ok…?”

“…Yeah… thanks…” Gaurav said and disconnected. It was an overwhelming deluge of anger, resentment and helplessness. But what worried him more was Ria’s reaction to everything that transpired in his past as well as whatever would happen in future. That was the main reason he couldn’t open is past before her. He couldn’t make out anything from her behaviour today. He was so lost… and would be even more if she left him….

He didn’t think he could survive this fresh shipwreck…

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 41

Ashok chitthappa disconnected the call… that was very typical of him whenever he called which was rare. Ria kept staring at the screen saver which had a funny click of Gaurav and her in one of their moments and she smiled seeing his face that had lightened up. She hoped it remained like that. She sighed thinking of her uncle.

Chitthappa her father’s younger brother was a CBI special agent and worked on highly classified cases. In fact, only her father and she knew he was with the CBI and for everyone else in their family, he was worked for an MNC. A confirmed bachelor, he had devoted his life to law enforcement. He had lived in the US for years where he had gone for higher studies in forensics but somehow had a slight change of career when he returned to India. She didn’t know the details as he had never shared them with anyone but she had only known that he was with the CBI for the last ten years or so. His absence from family events was chalked out as working abroad on classified projects for his company. So, no one doubted him. He had always adored Ria lovingly calling her ‘baby’ and had wholeheartedly supported her. Unfortunately, he wasn’t in town when she had needed him the most. He could never be reached unless he wanted to stay in contact and that was probably one of the reasons, he never had a family of his own… he was married to the CBI. Nonetheless, she was longing to meet him and….her parents. She wondered what he wanted to discuss that was so important. But for today she was focused on her impending dinner date with her husband.

That evening Ria was dressed in blue jeans and her favourite pink silk blouse… she had got it when Gaurav had taken her shopping last week and he didn’t know she had sneaked in this one among the others! She rarely used makeup but that day she used a light pink shade on her lips. She left her hair open which flew in the breeze as she waited at the gate with Keith for Gaurav to arrive. Gaurav came in a different vehicle that looked like a …OMG… a limo… the driver got out and Keith took over. But not before opening the passenger door for her at the back and shutting it after she got in. Gaurav was already there on the back seat and as soon as her door closed, he dragged her towards him and holding the back of her head, crushed his mouth on hers. She gasped and looked away feeling aghast that Keith may have seen and heard them. But she was relieved to see the shutter separating them from the front of the car was up. Gaurav however was unconcerned and chuckled as he continued ravishing her lips. His hands moved beneath her blouse and pinched her tits just the way she loved it and she moaned into his mouth. She touched him through his jeans tentatively…but this time he didn’t push her hand away,

Ria dared a little more as she pulled away and went on her knees before him. She had to struggle to fit herself between his legs, giggling to relieve her anxiety considering what she was about to do. She kept looking into his eyes, and in the dark car interior, his face was shadowed with various patterns from the passing lights… She slowly freed him from the pant and the boxers. He sucked in a breath as she rubbed his length and kissed the tip. He wheezed in air as he looked at her with his beautifully shining eyes… and then…she took him into her mouth. He held her hair as she continued to suck him and lick him along the hard length… just as she had once read about. As she sucked him thoroughly, licked his salty pre-cum and lapped at his tip, she felt him grow further hard and knew it was time… He tried to pull her away but she didn’t budge and in the next moment he shot his load into her throat grunting in a strained voice as she swallowed him almost gagging in the process. She licked her swollen lips rubbing her mouth to her sleeve on the side and like a satiated kitten came up and sat next to him. He held her close as she snuggled into him. It was then she realized…. she couldn’t imagine a life without him… she was addicted to this man!

Gaurav informed Ria over Thai dinner in a magnificent restaurant, that he was leaving for their Kolkata office early morning next day for the audit and appraisal work and he was to be gone for a day or two max. Ria was crestfallen but informed Gaurav about visiting her parents. He was a little apprehensive but relented since she was very chirpy and positive. Ria felt guilty not telling him about her uncle but decided she would talk to him after he got back. They barely slept that night as they were on a video call with Manek who was in Delhi to be with Megha. She had gone into an early labour and was taken for an emergency C-section. Manek was frantic and wanted them to be on call all the time Megha was in. Ria put all her professional skills into use to try and calm him down as Gaurav held her close which in-turn brought down her anxiety. She liked Megha a lot and was praying for a safe delivery while counselling an hysterical Manek. It was strange to see a huge wild beastly Manek reduced to a mushy emotional mess with the thought of his wife and child being in danger. Finally, baby Mehek Manek Chaturvedi made her grand entry in the wee hours of the morning bringing great joy and relief to the entire family. Manek cried like a baby seeing the tiny bundle so did Ria as Gaurav held her and though she didn’t see tears in his eyes, she knew Gaurav was shaken too.

  Gaurav left early morning by 5AM as she slept out her exhaustion in her bedroom and she did feel his peck on her forehead before he left. Keith was home early that morning and he was to drive her to her parents’. Ria was missing Gaurav already and she decided she would confess her feelings to him after he got back. If he said it back to her it would be for the best but if he didn’t…. well she didn’t want to think right now. She knew he felt deeply for her as well and for now that was enough. She was in a great mood today after she had a video call with the exhausted new parents Manek and Megha and their little bundle of joy Mehak. She didn’t want to dampen it….

By 11AM she was at her parents’ home. She was merrily chatting away all the way with Keith who personally dropped her at the door and went back to the car. Pooja answered the door with a tentative smile. Ria hugged her and was almost in tears with the familiar fragrance of her shampoo. Pooja too seemed pleased and tightened the hug… she looked radiant, the glow of the life growing inside her bringing out her beauty even more.

“BABY…” her uncle roared. Ria rushed into his arms and he lifted her hugging her. He kissed her forehead and releasing her held her at an arms distance. He had aged a lot since she had last seen him over two years ago… his salt and pepper hair was now totally white! But he was fitter than all of them put together. “…. Oh my God….my baby is so beautiful. Are you… are you happy there? Does…he takes good care of you dear…?” He asked frowning.

“Of course, he does Chitthappa. He is a wonderful husband.” Ria said with a glazed look.

Her parents came in and there was a little hesitation but she hugged them. Her appa didn’t want to speak to her but Chitthappa was in a complete state of reconciliation. He openly reprimanded her father for choosing Vikram who was absolutely a bad match for her and after some little tears and small talk, they sat for lunch. Ria was happy to be back in familiar surroundings and realized how much she missed her family… however they were. After lunch, they all sat together and discussed Pooja’s Seemantham (traditional baby shower) plans. Her mom wasn’t feeling too well and went for a nap. Pooja went to her room to rest and to chat with her husband and it was just Ria alone with her father and uncle in the living room. She longed to hear from Gaurav… whether he had reached safely and how the work was… she knew he hated admin work. But before she reached her phone in her clutch, chitthappa spoke, “Ria…?” He called her by her given name only when he was very serious. “…I have some things I need to discuss…about… about your husband…”

“What…? Gaurav…? How do you know him chitthappa?” Ria asked

“Well…when your father emailed me about your marriage to Gaurav and the court case fiasco before that, I decided to do a background check on him…” He gave her a look which told her he could do it easily since he was with the CBI. Of course… She nodded pensively.

He continued, “… I had to dig-in very deep and call in for favours from friends and got some… disturbing information. I had to get back here… ASAP…” He got up, went towards his backpack and took out a file. He gave it to her and indicated her to read it. Ria felt her heart pounding. She remembered Swara’s talk and that anonymous SMS series she had received early in her marriage. She couldn’t get herself to open the file and sat still.

Her father who was quiet so far spoke up. “Why don’t you tell us Ashok, what is this all about? Her brains don’t function when it comes to that man. So, you tell us. I want to know… “.

Her uncle stood up with hands in his pockets. “…Ria,…Gaurav was in prison… almost six years ago for murdering his… pregnant wife. He was in jail for about six months as an under trial before he got acquitted for lack of proof…. The man had burnt her alive, Ria…. This was in Dubai….There were also instances of domestic violence and a case had filed against him as well…before he did the deed…” Ria was stunned to silence as her uncle continued, “…He then returned to India and headed the admin of the group of hospitals here in Pune, where he still chairs the operations. He had it easy because of his influential family….” Her uncle fumed as he continued. “…He… this Gaurav… is a womanizer of the highest order…. He had this flamboyant life style back in Dubai…into some deviant sexual crap too…I have heard…” She sucked in a trembling breath remembering the bungalow. “… Do you know why he married you Ria…? because you were an unsuspecting easy target…. He had to repair his image after that court case…”.

Ria had enough… she stood up and held out the file to him. “I…I… don’t believe all this chitthappa …”

Her uncle took the file but held up his hand and gestured her to sit.

“…I am not done here…Ria. His dead wife’s sister is fighting even today to get justice for her departed sister and unborn nephew or niece who were killed by the bastard…” Her uncle raised his voice. “…Very soon maybe in the next six months… the case may be reopened in Dubai. The lady has apparently managed to find new proof… So… this marriage to you was an image correction…to prevent subsequent deportation if need be… Since officially he is an Indian citizen and now a family man. The case may drag on and he won’t lose anything… He has married a simple girl who wouldn’t ask questions…”

Hot tears streamed down her face; her chest clenching with pain. “No… No don’t say that…” she pleaded.

Her uncle kneeled in front of her. He held her hands and gently asked, “…Baby, what do you know about him? Has he ever disclosed anything about his past, his family…? Do you know…. his family has kind of disowned him…? no one in his extended family too talks about him or is in touch with him except for matters related to administration. He is only involved in running the business….He doesn’t even practice surgery anymore…” He uncle sighed. “… He was acquitted then, but everyone present during those months of trial in Dubai, vouched for the fact that he had arranged to pay-off witnesses or destroy them. As for this recent trial…. he didn’t have to do anything. You saved his hide and he just had to marry you….”

Ria interrupted, “… No chitthappa… I agree, I don’t know anything about his past but in this current circumstance… he was indeed with me the entire time that night. It was the truth. He…he saved my life. He wasn’t… wasn’t even agreeing for my involvement. I insisted… As for getting married…he has been very accommodating. He has never raised his voice let alone his hand… He has been nothing but a doting and a caring husband…” Her voice was quivering.

Ashok sighed. “Look Ria…” He said sternly. “…I am not going to sit still while you ruin your life with this bastard. I will try everything possible in my ability to get dirt on him. It’s personal for me. You are the victim now…”

Ria stood up, swaying a bit as her head reeled and she had to take support of the dining table. She couldn’t wait here anymore. “…I..I am going home. I will not tolerate anyone calling my husband names and accusing him of something he didn’t do.” She said defensively.

“Fine Ria …” Ashok continued. “…. Here, take this pen drive. Keep a cool head and go through the files on it. It’s all a compilation of whatever Gaurav has been accused of… Whether you like it or not… I will be watching him. And baby… If…. if you are in any kind of danger…. I mean even if you feel like it then just give me a call…. on this number…” He kept the pen drive in her clutch along with a chit where a number was written and handed it to her. Ria took it with trembling hands and started to leave. Her father was surprisingly quiet but her uncle finally said, “And baby…?” She turned around. “…Be careful ok?” Just like what Swara had told her…

Ria didn’t react and stepped out of her house. Keith was there quickly and she got into the car. The entire drive back home she was trying to control her tears. Keith kept looking at her in the rare view mirror but if he sensed anything amiss with her mood he didn’t comment. On reaching home she rushed to her room and locked herself in. She bawled into her pillow as she thought of everything her uncle had told her about Gaurav…. Her pent-up emotions having their way with her… Thinking about Gaurav made her miss him even more. She had to talk to him… she picked up her phone. It was on silent mode so she had missed calls from him. 11 missed calls.

She was clogged with emotions and knew he would recognize those in her voice in a jiffy. So, she decided to text instead. But she already had messages from him.

‘Hey….trying to call you…all ok at home?’

After half an hour there had been another message…

‘Ria, are you alright? Hope you aren’t upset… eat lunch on time…’

She was in tears again when she read the third and the last message which she had received an hour ago.

‘Ria, I am getting worried…. Keith doesn’t know anything either. …call me ASAP ok?’

Ria was crying now…how could a considerate human like Gaurav be a murderer…? As if he had received her telepathy her phone rang. It was him…

“H… hello?” she answered. She knew Keith must have informed him she was back and also that she was upset. She tried to keep a clear voice.

“Ria… are you alright?” he sounded frantic.

“I am fine… Just a little sore throat”, she tried to cover.

“Ria… I know… you are upset… hey… hey…” He said when he heard her sob, though she tried to control it. “… What happened sweetheart? Just…tell me…darling, don’t cry…”

“… I…. I’ll call back later… bye “. She disconnected, immediately switching off her phone and cried her heart out.

Ria must have dozed off for a while when she was awakened by a knock. Keith called out. “Ria…open the door please. Sir… is worried. He is on the line. Please talk to him once…”

Ria tried to stand but her crying bout had exhausted her. She dragged herself to the door Keith raised an eyebrow seeing her state but he didn’t say anything and handed over the cordless phone to her. He left her alone to speak.

“H… H… Hello” She spoke on the phone returning back to her bed.

“Ria…I am so worried. PLEASE talk to me. What is it? Did something happen there? Look… we will sort things out… ok…? I promise you… But… stop worrying dear. Don’t… don’t cry ok…?”

“Yeah…” she whispered.

“Look… I am catching the earliest flight available and will reach there ASAP. Keith will be there till I reach. …. Just take care till then…. alright…?”

“Ok…”

After the call, Ria went to the washroom and freshened up. She wasn’t able to get the mental conflict out of her head… every time she calmed herself down, the memory of her Chitthappa’s words brought fresh tears. She had tea, hoping to clear her head when Keith informed her that Gaurav would be reaching only after midnight. It was 5PM now and she had time till night. She decided to clear things in her head and there was only one way to do it…

Her thatha always said, it was easy to ignore the problems… but one couldn’t change what one refused to confront… and today, she was going to confront this problem head-on…

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 40

As they reached home that evening, Ria stepped into the house and walked towards her room. Though things had lightened between Gaurav and her, her heart was still heavy and she wasn’t able to take her mind off what had unfolded at that bungalow…

“Ria…?” Gaurav called out to her as she was about to enter her room. “…uh… can we talk…? Please…?” He looked pained, extremely out of place and that was the last thing she wanted.

“..Its… its…OK Gaurav… you aren’t obligated to tell me … anything…I mean…”

“…No…No…I … I want to…but… Ria… I need… uh…” she saw him rub down his face and the rate at which he had been doing it, she hoped he didn’t wear his handsome face out.

She walked up to him and held his hands. “Gaurav… listen to me… I … I never intended to make you uncomfortable… but just… just keep it in mind…  I am right here… whenever you are ready to talk… I am here…”

“…Ria… it isn’t good… Its…” He looked away.

“…hey look at me Gaurav…” she held his face loving the grizzly feel of his day-old stubble. “…we are friends first…isn’t it…?” He nodded as he continued. “…So, no judgements… Ok…?” He nodded slowly this time. “… Gaurav… you didn’t judge me when you knew about my life… so rest assured I won’t either… I don’t promise I can help you in any manner Gaurav, but I am here…”

He pulled her towards him and hugged her tightly. “…Thank you, Ria… that’s all I need… and …I am sorry about today… I … I displaced my anger on you and that was uncalled for… and Ria…?” when she looked up into his eyes, he continued, still holding her close. “… whenever you are ready… uh… will you tell me about what Vikram did…?”

Her eyes filled and she shuddered as she thought about that day and hugged Gaurav digging her head into his chest as the citrus fragrance so synonymous with Gaurav now, calmed her racing heart. “ Ria…” she looked back at his face blurred by her unshed tears as he held her face. “…I promise you I am going to teach that asshole a lesson he will never forget… he will never lay his filthy hands on an unsuspecting woman ever again…”

“…Let him go Gaurav…” she whispered sniffling away tears. “…he is not worth it…” she covered his hands over her face and leaned to one side. She then turned and kissed his palm. He hugged her again kissing her head… another gesture she loved so much… that showed what a caring man he was. She wished with all her heart that he would find the same peace that she had achieved…someday. “…um… GAurav…?”

“…hmmm…”

“…About that…um… red room…I…I was … scared…I… can’t…” she spoke into his chest.

“…Its ok Ria… let it go… its not worth it either…”

The next two months were sheer bliss for Ria. She had never been so happy in her life. They had a routine. Every day, after a breakfast together, Gaurav left for the hospital where he continued to work in admin while she spent most of her time designing her new centre and also doing online consult, interviewing staff etc. They had visited Parijath twice and Kalyani had been thrilled to welcome her into their fold. She had almost finalised the staff for her centre which was to be inaugurated next month if everything went as per schedule. Gaurav had been enthusiastically supporting her having taken the back seat. They had once stayed there overnight where Gaurav had dragged her to the stables post dinner to show her the newly remodeled home she had seen last time. This time there was a proper bedroom and as soon as she saw it, Gaurav wasted no time in taking her then and there on the beautiful double bed. Talk about proper introductions… They stayed there that night falling asleep late into the night as they talked amidst the horse’s hoots. Gaurav told her it was Shiva calling for his attention as she chuckled. Even before she fell asleep, she knew when Gaurav got up to leave the room… but by now she had got used to it and had accepted it…

Back home, Keith was always around and was becoming her best friend and guide. Gaurav would call at least twice daily from work and they had ‘stuff’ to talk about, that never seemed to end. They spoke about work hiccups, achievements, drags and encouraged each other to improvise. Every call would leave her missing him… wanting him. Whenever he came home early, she would coax him to paint and realized he had genuine artistic talent. He was also smiling more often these days. Nights were filled with passion which only increased with every passing night. She didn’t even know she had so many pleasure points on her body. Or it must have been Gaurav….rather…his touch. However, they still slept separately… They usually had sex on the couch in the living room even as a movie played on in the dark, their combined silhouettes painting shadows on the wall…, once in the kitchen when she had gone hunting for tea but hadn’t found and he had come to help out….finishing the act against the kitchen counter… or her room, from where he left after she slept. She avoided going to his room as she didn’t want him to move out to sleep on the couch…But Ria was now used to it and though she longed to wake up with him like that night those months ago, she decided to let go.

Overall life was great but she only had one regret. She wanted to smooth things out with her parents…. She didn’t expect anything but just wished to be on talking terms. But they never answered her calls and Keith advised her to give them some time.

She also missed touching Gaurav…without his clothes on. She wanted to ‘see’ him though he had never undressed before her. She knew he had a great body which she had seen when he wore figure hugging t shirts. She knew he rose with the roosters and worked out diligently. She had seen those super abs and biceps whenever he flexed his hands… or picked her up to have his way with her… She wanted to explore that wonderful body but he never let her touch him more intimately. She decided to break the ice and go overboard tonight as she waited for him.

Like every evening Gaurav came home by 8PM. They had his favourite dinner of jeera rice and daal fry which she had prepared specially for him. She wore a new nightgown she had purchased recently without him knowing… it was an off-shoulder gown and moulded her heavy assets pretty well at both ends. She had paid a bomb for it but it was all worth it when she saw him drooling at dinner and she knew it wasn’t the food. His heated gaze at dinner almost made her come right there and she had to rush to the kitchen under the pretext of winding up stuff as he finished eating. As she stood panting hunched over the sink staring aimlessly at the tap, he grasped her from the back… when had he arrived…? His hands roamed around her belly feeling the satin and also heating her insides as they traversed a tortuously slow path upwards and soon rose higher to cup her mounds. Her breasts were straining against the cloth barriers and she wanted his touch and …his mouth on those ultra-sensitive peaks…

He lifted her squealing body over his shoulder and took her to his room. He didn’t switch off the lights as he usually… did whenever they went missionary. She was euphoric …was this the day…she wondered…. He pushed her on the bed and followed on top covering her. He kissed her as he played with her pebbled nipples straining through her gown and she almost came again. She never wore her panties at night and this dress didn’t need a bra…but now she wanted to get rid of the only remaining barrier between her body and his hands. He did the needful and soon she was writhing and moaning below him as he sucked her areola and tugged at her aroused nipples. She almost had a blackout when she shattered hitting the sides of the bed as she did. As she was getting her bearings back, he moved down towards her core. He had never given her the mouth… He bent her legs at the knees and held them apart as he watched her apex and then stared into her eyes… she knew what he wanted… her trust and she smiled. She was thrilled to see his expressions change like a kid getting his favourite candy… And she was his sweetmeat treat today… that thought itself sent waves of pleasure crashing through her veins. She was so aroused that she could feel her juices flow down her crevice. He bent down and blew at her clit as she shivered and she could feel the build-up of yet another orgasm. He kissed her clit and entered her with his tongue. As he thrust in and out, he also lapped up her juices. She tightly clutched the bed sheets on either side and moaned…. within moments she cried out his name as she went the deep bright end over and over… She was drained out totally but was moonstruck all over again when she looked at him heavy lidded. He was staring hungrily at her licking his lips, as if he had eaten his favorite pie but wanted more. She was amorously turned-on and couldn’t wait for him to be inside her. As if reading her thoughts, he slid his pant a little to release his arousal and before her next thought, he held her thighs and plunged into her wetness. Within a few strokes he pinched her nub and she rose her body…reaching a crescendo where the waves crashed at her repeatedly till, she fell back on the bed…. he followed her with a huge roar as he emptied himself inside.

Ria woke up with some kind of a noise totally disoriented. She then realized with a disappointment; she was in Gaurav’s cold room…alone. The night lamp was on beside her bedside and she checked the time. It was 2AM. Probably Gaurav was using the uncomfortable couch she thought, guilt eating her up. She thought of waking him up to get back here and she would return to her room…. It was then she heard it.

“No …please don’t…. NO… NO…” Gaurav was in agony…. Ria remembered hearing this on her first night in this house. She quickly put her gown back on and rushed to the living room. Gaurav was lying on the couch his face contorted in pain, the scar shining in the dim night light and he had held his hands tightly in a fist. He was sweating profusely; his clothes were wet and in the glow of the subtle light, she saw he was crying. Her heart broke…she couldn’t let him live the nightmare. She gently touched him to wake him up. “Gaurav….hey… wake up…”

Gaurav got up with a start and looked blankly around him. He rubbed his face and sat up on the couch looking away. She sat next to him on his right. He didn’t look at her but turned his body away. ” Gaurav… Want to… talk about it?” she almost whispered keeping her right hand on his lap as she gently rubbed his back with her left.

Gaurav didn’t respond. He gripped her hand on his thigh tightly as if his life depended on it and stared widely at the opposite wall. Ria didn’t say anything but just kept running his back and hugged him from the side. He turned towards her and held her face in his hands. “…Ria…I… want you…. I …r… right now…please…” His voice cracked on a whisper…

Ria wasted no time in pulling him towards her as she kissed him. He pushed her down on the couch devouring her mouth and dragged his hands on her thighs upwards raising her gown. She circled her legs around him in the confines of the couch and within the next two seconds he slammed into her. He rocked into her with an intensity she had never seen and she raised her hips to match his thrusts. She hugged him tightly towards her as he buried his face in the crook of her neck. He kept biting her there and sucking the area to relieve the tinge. She climaxed soon, followed by him screaming into her neck and spilling inside her….

They lay in that position for a while and though he was on top of her he was careful not to put his weight on her. She held him to her gently rubbing his back…offering all the comfort she could given the limited knowledge she had about his nightmares, but she had her’s enough to know they were unnerving enough…

Ria woke up in her room where Gaurav had dropped her into last night after their rendezvous on the couch. He had kissed her passionately for what seemed like ages and hugged her… then reluctantly leaving her room. Ria wanted to coax him to spend the remainder of the night with her but knew he wouldn’t agree, besides she was exhausted and had been asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. She now looked at the wall clock. It was 9AM…. She sat up with a jolt. Gaurav must have left for work and she wanted to make sure if he was Ok. She changed and rushed to the living room. Keith was in the kitchen ready with her coffee and his perennial smile that lightened up her mood and told her to check her messages winking at her.

She ran back to her room and dug out her phone smiling as she skimmed through her inbox.  Gaurav had indeed left her a message.

“Hey sleepy head… You are even more beautiful when asleep. Am caught up in back to back meetings. May not call… Get ready at 7PM tonight. Will pick you up for dinner. Wear anything casual.

– G”

Wow…this was the closest he had come to typing out a personal message.

She typed a thumbs-up emoji and kept the phone to charge.

As she sipped her coffee, Ria was lost in thought. She had a lot of questions unanswered where Gaurav was concerned but realized that he needed time to open up to her. She would wait. He was warming up to her gradually…. She smiled as she thought of the message she had just read. Gaurav and she had become intimate and shared lots of small stuff like relevant and irrelevant day-to-day topics. She looked at their living room walls now having two framed pictures. One clicked on their wedding day and another of Gaurav sitting in his office. She had loved the picture and forced him to hang it there. There were also a couple of his paintings. She often spoke with Preeti who told her Gaurav was no longer the monster people had thought him to be. In fact, he even smiled at his employees and conversed with them occasionally. Ria had been thrilled with the positive changes in him.

She soon got busy with her daily routine.

After lunch she received a call. Private number. She was waiting to hear his voice and was extremely happy. She closed her bedroom door, last seeing an amused looking Keith as he walked around the house with the vacuum cleaner.

“Hey” she answered the call.

“Ria…is that you baby?”

“Ashok chitthappa…?” Ria asked startled to hear her paternal uncle’s voice. Where the hell was, he all this while…?

“Of course, it’s me baby…“

“Oh my God… I can’t believe it’s you…. So, you finally got the time to call… is it…?”

“…You know baby…duty calls. I was undercover for the CBI. Last eight months…. I couldn’t contact anyone. Couldn’t compromise the operation…. Just wound up everything and reached Chennai yesterday….”

“So… um chitthappa, you know…. um…I am married…”

“In fact, that’s why I want to meet you baby. I am reaching Pune tomorrow. Your appa had mailed me about the turn of events. Pooja’s baby shower date also has to be fixed soon. So, I am coming up there to help….” What? Pooja was expecting…? A sudden thought of her with a belly filled with Gaurav’s baby flashed across her mind making her smile.

“…Baby…? Are you there…?”

“…Um… yes…I wish we could meet…”

“Ria, I HAVE to meet you baby. There is something very important I have to discuss with you. Come home. I have spoken to your appa and he has agreed to let you….”

“…appa agreed…?” Well no one said no to her chitthappa… especially not her father. She was sure chitthappa must have twisted his arm… nonetheless she was glad and hoped she could sort things out to get a closure. She didn’t need any bitterness in her life.

“…Yes, dear he did. He loves you though he has a lousy way of showing it…. Come baby…. Tomorrow, be there in the morning by 11 AM. We can have lunch like old times…”

“Ok Chitthappa… cu tomorrow morning”

“…and baby…?”

“Yes, chitthappa…?”

“Come alone…“.

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 39

They drove for a while till they reached the outskirts of the city… Ria was euphoric and probably the happiest in her life. The long drive was spent in stealing glances and subtle touches which were arousing her and from what he saw Gaurav was uncomfortable in his seat too! They discussed playlists and while he loved retro Bollywood, she preferred A R Rahman over R D Burman. Their light banter soaked by her giggles and at times his throaty laughter was something she would cherish all her life…

They stopped outside a bungalow, so beautiful, Ria’s eyes were wide in their sockets. The two storied bungalow was surrounded by thick growth of trees and there was something what looked like acres of woods behind it.  The gentle breeze lifted her spirits further along with her hair and for once she wanted to let her guard down… and become unruly like her locks. There wasn’t any other residence close by and Ria wondered where they were. After they got out of the car, she saw Keith and the other bodyguard come up to them. Gaurav handed over the keys of an outhouse which was apparently behind the bungalow, to Keith and instructed something while she strolled towards the flower garden along the pathway to the house. Oh… her favourite roses and marigold… really…? She had taken quite a few tutorials on gardening from Keith and she tried to figure out the probable process involved in the beautifully fragrant piece of work. Gaurav called out to her and Keith waited till Gaurav and Ria entered the bungalow and activated the alarm.

Ria scanned her surroundings as she stepped into what looked like a set of a film studio… the interior of the drawing room was chic and contemporary and she was transferred to another fantasy world. The entire interior of the bungalow was painted white with blend of pastel shades and filled with appropriate furniture. It was a stunning amalgamation of  colour and texture contrast. There was a huge dining table at one end and she saw there were vessels placed along with the cutlery. Gaurav hugged her from behind startling her and breathed into her ears…the gesture was now turning into her favorite one. “This is my friend’s bungalow. He has lent it to me till tomorrow. It’s well stocked.” he said

She turned in his arms and looked up at him. “But…I haven’t carried any spare clothes…” she said as she moved her hands upwards towards his shoulders. He held her hands and said, “Don’t worry about clothes …you won’t need them …for what I have in mind.”

She was so shy she buried her head in his chest. Laughing he hugged her back and kissed her head. Soon they went to the first floor and he showed her two adjacent rooms. “This is your room and this is mine.” He said waving his hands at the door. What? Separate rooms? After all they had shared? Ria wondered. But she didn’t say anything as she didn’t want to ruin the melancholy called her mood. She stepped inside her room while he retreated into his as she heard his door close. She looked around taking in the interiors…It was beautiful. The windows had floor length curtains drawn over them which gave a cozy finish to the room. There was a huge four poster bed and a love seat at its foot.  But now, instead of feeling elated she was utterly disappointed. Of all the things this wasn’t what she had expected. She wanted Gaurav here with her.  Suddenly she felt determined as her agitated mind settled to a warm comfort and she left the room. She knocked at his door… twice. But there was no response… was he in the washroom? She wondered if she should knock again or wait for him when she heard faint voice rising in intensity intermittently. She hated to eves drop but the curiosity in her couldn’t be contained and she strained to hear. It sounded like a phone conversation so she could only partially hear Gaurav speaking.

“… No… No… I do not need it…”

Pause.

“…Why…? What the fuck…? No… I said No… I stand by my decision. And you can go ahead and do what you want…”

Pause…

“…Oh really… tell you what…? I don’t care… not anymore…Fine…let it come… I will face that as well….”

Pause…

“…I said NO… cant you get that…?…. then don’t…like I said…. I don’t care…”

 Then there was silence. Probably the call was over with and Ria was mortified…she had just eavesdropped a private conversation. She turned to go back to her room when Gaurav opened the door with a jerk.

“… Hey…What’s it Ria? You haven’t freshened up? Didn’t like your room?” he asked tucking a strand of hair behind her ears. She saw his hand tremble a slightly and he looked stricken lost in his own universe full of whatever the turmoil he had concealed from her and the world. Ria held his hand and spoke. “…Um…Gaurav. The room is beautiful… but…Why am I put up in a different room? Why can’t we share a room? It’s huge anyways. It’s not that we haven’t….um …I spent last night in your room back home…um….”

Gaurav rubbed his face revealing the fatigued expressions, the usually not so visible scar now declaring its tenacious presence. “Ria…I…I want nothing more than having you in my room. But…I feel we have moved things too soon. You…you should have your space too. Ok…?”

God… he was exasperating “…I don’t want any space Gaurav. I have had enough of that so far. I want to be with you. To know you….I…”

 “…lets …just stick to this arrangement alright…?” He abruptly said as his hand hid the side wall then with a stern tone he continued as he looked away. “…Just because we are married, we don’t have to stick together all the time…. I need my space…”.

Ria was shocked to hear that tone of his. She was in tears not because he almost yelled at her but because he was hurting and she could see it but not help him.

“…Gaurav… Are you …Ok…?”

“…Just… go to your room… Ria…” His voice cracked into a whisper as he took her name and rubbed his hand over his face.

She could feel him breathing hard and containing his anger, or frustration or whatever that was. Though he was no longer in prison, the metaphorical jail he had locked himself up into was inaccessible to her. She wanted to shake him…  ” Gaurav…I am sorry. But my definition of a married couple who have… consummated their marriage was… that… they shared a bedroom. I guess it was my mistake…. We shouldn’t have come here then… isn’t it…?. You know what…? we should leave…” She abruptly turned towards her room.

In a flash, he held her arm and pulled her towards him. As she resisted, he held her hair with his right hand and her body with his left, turning her towards the wall to trap her. He pulled her hair slightly, so she was forced to look up into his eyes. “…Don’t… you ever do that…Don’t-ever-question-me…I have not wronged anyone… I have always paid debts which weren’t even mine….Don’t… ever doubt my intentions… Don’t…” His eyes were stern slits of black breathing fire… She was trembling with a mixture of sadness and desire. She slowly released her hand trapped between their bodies and pushed him slightly. Suddenly as if out of a trance he left her, with a shocked look on his face and rubbed a hand over his face a little harder this time and looked sullenly mortified. He spoke softly “I am… I am sorry… Ria. That didn’t … come out well…. it’s just…I need my solitude ok…? I can’t… share my room with anyone…. What happened back home was something by chance… it… it won’t happen again…”

Ria looked at him. It broke her heart to see his pained expression. She knew he was just venting out and she was his punching bag… he didn’t even realise he was punishing himself.  She was willing to play the role if it could get him to reveal what troubled him so much that it almost turned him into a monster. Though he didn’t actually hurt her, he failed to take the lid off his agonising past and as she walked towards her room wiping her tears, she wondered who it was on the line…

They had a quiet lunch at around 2PM where he had texted her to join and though annoyed, she didn’t want to miss any chance of interacting with him… But they both didn’t mention the earlier incident but their earlier camaraderie from the car drive was lost. They finished their lunch in silence and as they moved towards their rooms, Gaurav said, “Ria… rest a little. I… I will… will come to get you at 7PM….I have…uh… some work to do.” Ria didn’t reply and went into her room shutting the door behind her.

Ria tried to watch TV for a while but she couldn’t focus. She knew yesterday night and today morning… were too good to be true. Her appa always said, all good things come to an end. Well in her case at least, it was true if todays events were anything to go by. She was married to a sphinx, with whom she was way too much in love. She thought about the events of the last few days as she picked up her phone and saw she had received few messages from her friends wishing her on her wedding. But most of them were from Preeti who wrote about her wedding preparations. She wanted to meet Ria one of the days for her wedding shopping and had asked her to revert back.

Ria didn’t know when she had slept off but she woke up startled with a knock at the door woke her up. “Ria… are you awake?” Gaurav called out

Ria checked her mobile phone. It was 7PM. She had slept for at least two hours. She quickly freshened up in her bathroom and opened the door. Gaurav stood with unruly hair, wrinkled t shit and a lost look in his eyes and her heart was breaking to see him like that. Instinctively her hands cupped his face. “…Hey…you really…ok?” She asked softly. He kissed her palms and lowered her hands. He stared at her with an intensity that made her tremble. He turned pulling her after him and before she knew, she was on the second floor. There was only one door as if there was only one room. That was surprising. Gaurav released her hand and took out a key. He unlocked the huge door and went in first. He then slowly turned and held his hand out for her. She smiled and placed her hand in his and together hand in hand they stepped inside the room. It was dark. Gaurav closed the door with his other hand and switched on the lights. Ria was smiling in anticipation till she looked around and her smile fell. That the room was huge… was an understatement. It had red walls. Red? There was a bed with some kinds of ropes hanging from the ceiling above it. Oh God…

Ria’s heart pounded as she looked around. One wall was lined with different kinds of… whips. There were leather belts of different widths. The other wall was lined with shelves with pretty boxes which were locked. Then there were handcuffs from different materials and finally there were blindfold cloths of different textures. The light was dim and gave out an eerie feeling, rising her anxiety levels. She looked up at the ceiling to see it had little mirrors. She was not a novice and read a lot and her curiosity had once made her read about kink. It had felt exciting in print to try out … but when Vikram had tried to get physical that evening, he had spoken about cuffing her to his bedpost… and gagging her… all with his intoxicated and saturated grey matter… And this room reminded her of just that forgettable evening. She shuddered and wrapped her arms around her middle as she began to palpitate.

“Ria…” Gaurav called out to her. “…. You ok?” He sounded concerned.

Ria had enough. She was now angry to the core… she turned and faced him. Breathing heavily with tears running down her cheeks she struggled to scream. “OK…? OK…?  You expect me to be OK with…. with…. all this…?” She waved at the area around her. In an angry strangled voice, she continued, “…Who the hell do you think… you are…? Just because I …I… surrendered myself to you…completely… unlike you. It…it gives you… no right … on me… you GOT IT…? You were worried about… things happening too soon between us…weren’t you…? What is all this then…?” She was breathing heavily and crying even as he looked shocked and pained not able to pacify her. “… do you know…Vikram wanted all of this … And you know why…? to control me…That evening … he… forced… I had nightmares for days…I still do…I don’t deserve this…I have emotions and you can’t trample upon them…” She had gone hoarse as she wiped her cheeks. Gaurav now tried to reach her but she moved back towards the door and held up her hands “…No… Don’t touch me… Don’t… I am leaving this place. I can’t…just can’t…” She opened the door and ran out rushing straight into her room as she locked the door. She threw herself on the bed and cried into the sheets…. Her agonising sobs filling the silence of the room…

Gaurav stood stunned in his bedroom… he had heard he sobs when he had come downstairs earlier and didn’t have the guts to knock at the door. What had happened? Ria was always a sport. He thought she trusted him and shared his passion for intimacy. Though she was inexperienced, she had enjoyed everything so far…. even when he was rough. She had matched him with equal vigour in every step of the way. He wanted to share everything with her…eventually even his past. He wanted to introduce her to this world too which had become an integral part of his life. He was sure she would enjoy it too…and he had plans to pleasure her… at least that’s what he had thought. He wanted her in his life …forever and had wanted her to embrace this important part of his life.

But her reaction revealed something else entirely. Was it him or that bastard engaged to her…? He cursed himself for being so dense… He should have taken it slow…given it some more time. But when she had matched his passion…. matched his energy… matched his thrust…. he thought she would accept this too. He was a fool for ruining the most beautiful element of his life. She was the light in his dark life and he felt as if he just extinguished it.

No… He wouldn’t let things hang like this between them. He had to apologize to her. He had to earn back her trust…even if it meant he had to let go this part of his life. It pained him to think about the scenario but not having her in his life… even the very thought was crushing him.

He quickly went to her room and knocked. “…Ria…please open the door…look…I am sorry. I didn’t mean to…”

The door opened and Ria stood there with red swollen eyes as if she had been crying for a while. She looked so vulnerable that he felt the kick to his gut… He touched her face and wiped her cheeks with his thumb. She rushed into his arms and hugged him tight. He was relieved and held her to him as if his life depended on it. He kissed her head and apologized once again. She moved away and looked up into his eyes. She had stopped crying. She smiled and said, “Apology accepted…. shall we go home?”

He nodded. Peace descended over him as a benign smile played over those sensuous lips.

Ria was quiet on the way home and he longed to touch her, to hear her voice. They had dinner at a simple south Indian restaurant and as expected Ria was happy to have her favourite food. Soon the ice broke and they started having small talk and within moments Ria was grinning at him. He was smiling at her anecdotes too.

Giving up that part of his life didn’t seem trouble anymore. He had her. She made up for everything that was wrong in his life… and only hoped she felt the same for him.

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 38

The next morning Ria woke up alone in bed and she felt the cold bed next to her… The room was still dark but she had been dead to the world last night after their explosive union. She smiled and pulled her thighs together wincing at the soreness down below… He had been pretty rough but she had loved it… she shuddered even now as she felt the remnants of the mind-blowing orgasm… something that she had only read in books or had fantasised about. But Gaurav was something else… She squinted to check the time at the bedside clock. It was 5.30AM. She knew Gaurav was an early riser but that early…? She had to rush to her room to get decent as Keith was expected at 6AM and she chuckled at the thought of scandalising the good man in a skimpy nightgown! But… where was Gaurav… she strained her ears to hear the shower… but was met only by silence. Suddenly a strange fear engulfed her making her heart thud… was he regretting last night…? Did she go the extra mile or cross her limits by accusing him…? Was their coupling just some kind of combustion of their emotional buildup? No… She could be wrong about a lot of things but not last night. She knew he was in it as much as her. With different thoughts doing the turn taking in her brain she dressed clumsily and walked into her room. She had a quick shower and put on her favourite cotton gown as she emerged out of her room and heard the sound of utensils coming from the kitchen and above all the amazing aroma of her favourite filter coffee… Keith was early was he…?Nonetheless she could never resist a cup early morning… it made her day more enchanting and God knows she needed the fuel to activate her senses…

She walked into the kitchen expecting to see Kieth but instead was surprised to see Gaurav in his trademark home clothes preparing… Oh my God… masala upma. How the hell did he know to make that…? Ria stood watching with her mouth wide open as he turned around and gave her a million dollar smile.

“…Hey… slept well…?” He asked stirring the upma. “…Here…take a cup…” He nodded towards the two filled cups of filter coffee. She was on auto pilot… as she grabbed her cup and sipped the concoction…

“…Amm… this is amazing Gaurav…I didn’t know you could cook… want me to do that…?” She offered to help.

“…Uh… No… this is a small treat for my wife… from me…” Saying he switched off the gas stove and placed the lid on the wok. He walked towards her staring into her eyes with the same emotion she always saw whenever she caught him looking at her but today he didn’t look away. She placed the cup on the kitchen platform as he came close barely a few inches apart. “…Ria…” he whispered as she looked up into the warmth emanating from his eyes. He held her face in his hands. “…Last night… it was… it was the most beautiful night of my life so far… I… I cant tell you Ria… how much it meant to me… I …I hope… you…uh…I mean…” He let his hands fall and looked away rubbing his face.

She held his hands and placed them back on her face. “…I loved it Gaurav… It was beyond my wildest fantacies…It was just… I have no words…”

Before she could complete her statement he pulled her towards him as their mouths connected and a strong wave of ecstasy lay its foundation in the pits of her stomach. He plunged his tongue in her mouth exploring every single curve and hollow and she met him with equal fervour. As their tongues clashed, she reached the top of the peak and he held her dearie lifting her up. She held his neck as they kept kissing, devouring each other… the mating of their tongues being the only sound in the silent kitchen and his citrus cologne blending with the spicy aroma of the freshly prepared upma. The doorbell buzzed loudly startling them apart… and as she was slowly making her way down the peak, he held her tightly to his chest… Swearing at Keith who had chosen the unholy moment to make an entry. “…Goddamn it… Ria… Keith’s timing sucks… I had texted him to come late and he is late by just half an hour… can you beat that…?”

Ria chuckled and they both landed up laughing still holding onto each other as if neither wanted to let go… But Keith was there waiting for them to answer the door.

Ria blushed as she walked to the drawing room to set the dining table while Keith passed her giving her a two-finger salute… Oh God was it that obvious? She wondered sure that she had turned beetroot red. Keith served them the upma with a little smile plastered to his face even as Ria stole looks at him… Oh God he knew… But what the hell… she was Gaurav’s wife for crying out aloud and he had witnessed her misery in the last three days… As they ate Gaurav who was sitting next to her on her right, held her right hand in his under the table and she struggled to use her left. But she wasn’t the least troubled… she loved his touch… and she didn’t know when he had moved so close to her, they were almost touching at the sides. She looked towards the kitchen wondering if Keith could understand what was transpiring out here, but that didn’t deter Gaurav. She felt his hot breath fanning her ear as he kissed her pinna and licked it taking a tiny bite of the lobe and she quickly sucked in a breath…

“…Gaurav…?” she whispered even as she moved her face further towards him.

“…hmmm…?” He lazily hummed.

“…Gaurav… Keith’s in the kitchen…Um…so we should…um…”

Gaurav sighed on her cheek and touched his forehead to her temple. “…God Ria… how did I stay away for so long… I …the timing sucks… I have to have a word with Kieth… Late means at least a couple of hours late and not just half an hour…!!!”

She laughed out aloud and he joined her too as Kieth walked in with freshly prepared coffee for them and wondered what the joke was all about and that induced further laughter. Keith shook his head and retreated to the kitchen. Ria looked at Gaurav laughing as his eyes crinkles deepening the wrinkles in their corners… but he looked like an innocent kid. The slight greying in his temples didn’t deter his allure even by an inch… The beautiful black eyes in which she wanted to drown herself, now looked happy and content… She hoped it remained. She was still to know him… but for now this was lot more than she had expected. She looked upwards toward the intricate ceiling patterns and prayed to Almighty to spare them from the evil eye. She was just getting to peel off some of the multiple layers of this complex man and wished that a day would come when there would be no more barriers for her to penetrate to reach that beautiful heat of her husband….

He reluctantly left for work after an emergency call form the hospital… There was a major accident and the hospital was getting flooded with casualties and she knew he would get very late. But she assured him she was fine. He kissed her at the door and she walked him to the elevator… As the doors shut this time they only kept looking into each other’s eyes trying to find their own paths through the mind-boggling maze that had intricately surrounded their feelings for each other…

Later that evening it was past 8PM when she had finished her primary project report for her new centre which she had christened Mystic-Blooms . She had prepared everything from the costs to the need of each departments to the staff… But she had to actually see the location to make the needed changes and decided to speak to Gaurav about taking her to Parijath one of the days. She had plans to employ some of the women from Parijath as well if all went well. Kalyani would be the best person to know about whom to employ and if the lady would agree Ria intended to make her the part time supervisor in her centre. She had poured herself into the project after Gaurav had left taking breaks only to take a leak or eat or check her phone which was often… to see if there were any texts or calls from Gaurav that she had missed just in case! However, there were none… of course she missed him like hell but she wanted to know how he was doing given what had happened in the hospital. She stayed awake till it was 11 PM and by then the days excitement had taken a toll and she fell asleep on the couch in the living room.

Suddenly she felt lighter… someone was lifting her but before she could open her heavy lids, she smelt her favourite citrus cologne and snuggled into his chest. She was carried and put down on the bed and in her stupor, she wondered if she was in her room. But she felt the bed dip behind her and then a heavy hand covered her belly pulling her right behind so her back touched his chest. He kissed her head and soon as she slipped into oblivion his soft snores were the last sounds she heard.

There was a buzzing sound close to her… oh God what as that…? She stirred awake. She was wonderfully cosy and aroused as a hand had cupped her bosom and all of a sudden, the weight lifted making her cold, as Gaurav released her. She then realized it was the alarm as Gaurav swore and shut the irritating buzz. He kissed her forehead a gesture which she loved so much it melted her insides every time he did that…

“Go off to sleep dear I have to catch up on the hospital… Am in the study…  will wake you up later….” He said softly.

She held his hand as he tried to move away. “…You won’t go to work without talking to me…” she looked up into his eyes.

“No dear… I promise you…. in fact, I am not going to the hospital today. Everything is handled and am just checking upon the arrangements…. So… today…” He stretched as he spoke and she drooled over his firm silhouette reflected in the early dawn. “…We will spend time together ok? Now… catch some sleep. You need it…” He winked as he left.

Ria was over the moon. He had made her feel so special. After if she had thought her first night in his room was out of this world, last night was way beyond her comprehension. He had woke her up by lifting her gown and fingering her somewhere late into the night and within minutes he was sheathed inside her heat rocking her core… and as she had come she had seen bright stars behind her closed lids even as he had grunted his release and fallen besides her holding her close and digging his head in the crook of her neck. She had slipped into deep slumber feeling the warm breath on her back and loved being cherished.

He had taken her once again an hour or so earlier too… but this time he had taken her from the back, lifting her thigh and as she had expended her chest holding his head behind her, he had pumped in and out rhythmically… She had been so turned on, and then he had pinched the nipple he had been fondling and playing with and she had shattered… This time there were fireworks and her ears still buzzed with his grunts as he had traversed the little distance before giving into the deliverance… She felt utterly sore down and knew it would prick when she would take a shower but then she was aroused… correction… she was horny… she chuckled thinking about Gaurav wondering about her new found obsession with orgies, as she drifted off to sleep.

Ria woke up in a couple of hours and went to her room to freshen up.  She wondered why Gaurav hadn’t asked her to move her things into his room. The man was full of surprises, probably he would ask her today! She wore her robe since Keith was expected soon… well maybe a little later. She laughed remembering their conversation the earlier day. She had to have that coffee badly. She came out of her room and was hit by the usual divine aroma of filter coffee. Again, when she went to the kitchen, Gaurav stood there in his trademark black tracks and white polo neck full sleeved T shirt. He was making coffee and smiled looking at her.

He switched off the gas and strode towards her ever so slowly and she curled her toes in anticipation.

“…Um… how are… th… things at…at…th… the ho..hos…hospital…?” she stuttered and barely hearing her last words.

“…All good…” he smiled, his radiant beam of happiness infecting her and she was on the seventh heaven. He suddenly untied the belt of her robe and she squealed. He pulled her towards him.”…You don’t need that robe between us…”

“…But …Keith will be here. I…”

He ley his forehead on hers hugging her as she circled his neck, drawing her fingers into his mane. “Keith… won’t be coming here today. He will meet us downstairs at the car park when we leave…. He will follow us….” He said as he bent down to kiss her.

“…ummm…hey… are we going somewhere…? I mean…” the man was an infuriating mystery of the absolute first-hand and she now lived in a world of surmise… of uncertainties…

He smiled and kissed her and though Ria had questions the kiss was far more enticing. She went on her toes and met him half way again and they kissed. Within moments the kiss ignited the existing embers of passion with a graded intensity and he pushed her towards the passage wall outside the kitchen and lifted her hips against the wall…. still kissing her as he pressed his body to hold her in place. She curled her legs around him and heard him fumble with his pants. The next moment, he entered her in a sweep…

 He was panting after their release still holding her. Suddenly he looked into her eyes… The beautiful black depths sparkled as he asked, “…uh… protection…?”

Of course, the forever cautious planner had to ask! She smiled and kissed him on the lips once, before she released herself from his hold. “Don’t worry, I am on the pill. I had issues with my period. So am on the pill for regulating it. Four months now…”

He kissed her again and dragged her to his room where they showered together. But to her unutterable astonishment he was fully clothed and she longed to see him… actually touch his strong hard body which gave her pleasure till no end. However, she knew he would clam up and didn’t want this moment to pass. Her lips were swollen from the kiss but she wanted more! He took her twice in the bathroom… once against the shower tiles even as the water cascaded down their joined bodies, and once on the cabinet… she didn’t even know where he had pushed the toiletries. She once tried to pull his t shirt from the pant to run her hands on his body… but he held her hands behind her back and kissed her and she was lost…

She was wrapped in a fluffy towel when he kissed her nose. She looked up into his beautiful eyes… her favourite part of his facial features, they were so expressive.

“You keep looking at me like that and we won’t have that coffee or leave the house.” He said softly with humour lacing his voice making him look much younger. She vowed to make him smile more often, if she had it in her power…

After a quick breakfast, they left for their outing. Though her curiosity was getting the better of her, Gaurav said it was a surprise and refused to reveal the location. Keith met them near their car. He and another man in black clothes and goggles followed them closely in another car as they left the basement parking. Ria wondered why they needed security when she didn’t see any press hounds around and made a mental note to ask him later.

They reached a boutique. ‘Shanaya’s’. Ria had seen the place every time she had passed that route and had loved their ethnic collection. She was thrilled when Gaurav asked her to buy something nice for a special evening. Ms. Shay the manager of the store led her to a secluded corner which had changing rooms and took her measurements. She was asked to wait till Ms. Shay got her clothes for trial and Ria was glad she wasn’t given a choice. She wouldn’t know quality if it hit her on the face!

In the next half an hour she had tried twelve dresses but Gaurav hadn’t liked a single one. Ria pitied Ms. Shay who put up a smiling face and complied as told. Finally, she got a simple pink silk gown with a little work around the neck and the sleeves and Ria instantly loved it. She had liked many others as well but Gaurav had to veto it…

 She tried it on in the cubicle but wasn’t able to pull the zipper up at the back. She was about to call Ms. Shay when the door opened. She gasped as she turned around. Gaurav entered the cubicle filling the small space with both his magnanimous persona and her favourite cologne…  He turned her around so she faced the wall and slowly raised the zipper all the way up kissing her back till her neck. She was putty in his hands now as he nipped and sucked her shoulder and earlobe and she moaned…. Holding her palm to her mouth to muffle her sounds. Would someone hear her…? Sensing her thoughts Gaurav whispered into her ears, “…there’s is no one here and…. you in that dress…my dear are screaming… fuck me all over….” She almost shattered at those words. She felt him raise the dress up to her hips to reveal a simple cotton panties. He ripped it out with such force… she thought she would come right then. She felt him lower his zip and with an intensity that she had never seen or felt, he slammed into her. It took just two strokes from him, for her to reach the pinnacle of passion. Soon he followed her down the precipice growling into her ears and squeezing her hips. He then turned her and kissed her as if he was a parched traveller in a dessert and she was his oasis. Using his handkerchief, he wiped her down even as she was still reeling under the magnitude of her climax. She realized that the new dress was probably ruined. Once again as if reading her thoughts, He whispered, “You are definitely buying that dress. It’s yours… “

Finally, after paying a curious Ms. Shay and having the dress wrapped in a polythene, they left the boutique. Gaurav held her hand tightly, and Ria was blushing throughout. She had worn a denim skirt which reached just below her knee and a white cotton top which had complimented Gaurav’s blue jeans and white full sleeved T shirt. She was now without her panties and was highly conscious as she sat in the passenger seat of their car. She tried to pull her skirt lower felt his hand on hers. “Don’t do it… You don’t have to be conscious. You are stunning Ria…” Saying he took her hand to his lips and licked her fingers. She was beginning to feel the wetness in her core with that mere act. She was a goner. All she needed was his touch and her insides would turn to mush…. All her resolve to get to know him better before taking the next step was already down the drain and she was now on the verge of losing her sanity… but she wasn’t complaining… He slowly placed her hands on her lap and started the car. He looked ahead as he said, “It’s difficult to drive this damn thing when I know you aren’t wearing anything…. inside there….” Ria turned red. He continued, “…. ah that blush…you are adorable Ria. Your turning red makes my balls blue…” He adjusted his seat. She then saw it…his bulge. Well, at least she wasn’t the only one who felt the temperature in the car rise up.

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.

#adultcontentalert

Chapter 37

The texts had unsettled her already fragile emotional state and Ria was anxious throughout the evening as she waited for Gaurav to return home. For three consecutive evenings she had ardently waited for him, before having picked at her dinner and going to bed unable to keep awake any longer. Why the hell was he doing this to her…? Today, however she decided to wait irrespective of the time. Earlier during lunch Keith had informed her that Gaurav loved the dinner last evening and had conveyed his thanks for the same. She had in turn told Keith to intimate her if and when Gaurav called him on phone and she knew he did. However, Keith had just given her his trademark smile. She waited up till 11PM and finally when she could no longer stay awake she returned to her bedroom just to freshen up and change into her night gown but eventually drifting off to a fitful sleep.

Ria was suddenly woken up by some noise and she sat up on the bed. She knew she was anything but a light sleeper so probably her mind was active with all that had happened in the afternoon. She somehow knew Gaurav was home… she looked at her cell phone, it was 1AM. She got up from her bed and looked into the mirror…which had become a habit now. She had worn a beautiful lavender gown …her personal favourite from the collection in the cupboard and her mood pepped up. She looked sleep deprived! But she was no longer sleepy now and slowly walked out of her room hoping to meet Gaurav and also kept her fingers crossed that he would talk to her.

The drawing room was dimly lit and Gaurav was watching an old movie but from the looks of it he was just staring at the screen and not really processing it. He was dressed in track pants and his trademark full sleeved polo neck T-shirt. He had headphones on so that’s why probably the TV volume was super low. She went close to him and he suddenly startled and looked up. His expressions were like a deer caught in headlights and she held herself from chuckling. He quickly removed the headphones and switched off the TV. He abruptly stood up. “Uh…Ria…I am sorry I disturbed you. I thought the TV was on mute but probably… uh…you can go back to sleep….” he wasn’t even looking at her but drew his hand through his head.

“Do you want some tea?” she asked… Tea really…she was certified nuts!

He looked at her as if she had grown horns. “What… what did you say?”

“I asked, if you wanted tea. I had got a pack of chamomile…  I was going to make some for myself…. So, would you have some…?” Ria repeated looking at him straight in the eye. He stared at her before swallowing and nodded. She briskly just turned around and went to the kitchen. As the water was boiling Ria was also trembling. She had pretended to be confident as if nothing had happened but she wanted to break the ice and hopefully the tea would do just that.

Gaurav was still in the drawing room sitting on the couch with head bent down and elbows on his knees. He had looked so lost earlier, her heart went out for him. He looked up as she came in with the tea tray… watching her every move with a frown glued to his forehead, making her conscious. She poured tea into two cups trying to control her shaking hands and offered him one. He took it looking into her eyes with an expressionless face watching her as she sat across sipping the hot liquid. After finishing he kept the cup in the tray and stood up with hands in his pockets. He looked down at her and softly asked, “What is it Ria?”

Ria stood up too and came towards him standing right before of him. She looked into his eyes folding her hands at her chest. “I think you should be answering this, shouldn’t you…?”

Gaurav kept looking at her and she could no longer control it. She was losing herself in those beautiful eyes where his emotions were all armoured up. She touched his arm. “What… what is it, Gaurav? Are you angry? Is it something I have done…? You didn’t even speak to me these last four days. Do you even realize…. how I must feel? I… I… I can’t take this Gaurav… I…” tears rolled down her cheeks.

************************************************************************

Oh God help him…that was it for Gaurav and he could no longer hold it within. Ria looked like a dream in the lavender colored sleeveless satin night gown. He had impulsively purchased it on the sly and kept in her cupboard along with what Megha had bought for her before their marriage. He had often envisioned Ria wearing it and his boner would trouble him all night but the reality was irresistibly enticing. His erection was straining against his boxers…threatening to tear through his pants but her tears were always his undoing.

 He caught her shoulders and pulled her towards him and she immediately hugged him tight sobbing into his chest. Gaurav held her with his left hand and stroked her head with his right kissing her head. Nothing felt better than Ria in his arms and he knew she must have… felt him. She stopped crying and looked up, still hugging him. He gathered all his resolve and spoke with a tremor in his voice, “I… I had a reason to… stay away from you Ria… I didn’t want to… I… oh … just forget it…” He crushed her mouth feeling her soft lips abiding to his pressure, even as she moaned and opened her mouth giving him enough of an invitation. He slid his tongue inside…. she tasted of tea they had just shared. He groaned as she circled his neck further pulling him towards her. She was so inexperienced that he almost cried at her innocent faith in him and he was further falling for her hook line and stinker… not that he had any doubt about it. He couldn’t hold it any more… three years of containing himself and almost a year of regular cold showers he was sure … he fit the proverbial case of the blue balls…

He lifted his head and looked at her flushed face and that did it for him. He again bent down kissing her jaw on either side, her neck column which he had always dreamed of kissing and sucking. He gave her tiny bites and as she gasped, he soothed the area blowing on it… feeling her tremors beneath his palms. He kissed her clavicle, then back to the shoulder moving his line of pecks towards her neck as she bent giving him adequate access. He kissed her again on the lips, his hand now on her lower back pulling her towards him. She took in a shuddering breath and he suddenly released her as they both stood breathless. Ria looked up questioningly.

“Are… are you sure Ria…? Because I… I won’t be able… to stop… once I start…. and I… don’t want to ruin…I…” He almost turned around to leave before his resolve faltered but Ria held his hands and stopped him. He was dead… so so dead… She hugged him tightly and spoke in his chest “…Do you want this Gaurav…?” She then looked up into his eyes and asked him, “… Um… Do you want me…?”

He held her face feeling her soft skin soothing his rough palms as he whispered, “… Want… want you? I crave for you Ria… I want you like my next breath… I… I have been sporting this hard-on since ages… I can’t get a grip over my feelings at this moment…” He then kissed her again. She went on her toes and circled his neck tight and after what seemed like eternity, they broke free. She squealed as he picked her up cradling her as she held his neck kissing the skin exposed over the cloth and he wished that the barrier would go away soon. He took her to his bedroom which was dimly lit too and gently laid her on the bed. She looked at him nervously as he sat next to her and took her hand in his. He said, “Ria… I…I.. know this is your first time… I will be very gentle ok…? But… if you are uncomfortable or… if it pains… just stop me ok…?”

********************************************************************

Ria was overwhelmed with the concern on his face… he was so caring… every single time. Such a selfless man… an epitome of bewildering mystery…she knew in her heart he was misunderstood. She promised herself she would find out someday about why he was so averse to allow anyone to pierce the barriers he had set. She held his face which was right over hers now and dragged him towards her kissing him with everything she felt for him… pouring all her heart and soul into it. She felt his hands lifting up her night gown and blushed as he took the dress over her chest and in a moment, she was out of it. She had worn a purple silky matching set of bra and panties…. Thank God for little mercies and her good sense!  She coyly smiled and covered her chest with her hands and closed her thighs, shutting her eyes….

“Ria…” He spoke in a breathless voice igniting her senses. “…look at me dear…. this is going to be about you. Your pleasure…. I want… to see you come for me…. Just let go…” His words spoken in that sensuous voice caused the wetness to pool down at her apex even as she heard her favourite song play in her die-hard romantic mind.

…tu aata hai seene me… jab jab saanse bharti hu…

 He placed his arms on either of her side and rose on his knees keeping them on either side of her hips. He gently held her hands away. Ria gasped…. “Ria… Darling…. you are so beautiful…. every inch of you is stunning…”. He traced his forefinger around her right clavicle and got it down to the valley between her breasts. Oh God she was on fire… He used both his hands to unhook her bra from underneath her as she arched her back up… and her full round globes were released. He palmed them gently and flicked the tips and she heard a sound she realised was her moan… He kissed her on her mouth…

…meri nazar ka safar… tujhpe hi aake ruke…

He bent down and took a brown tip into his mouth and sucked. Ria arched further and held his head close to her chest as his insatiable tongue toyed with her nipple. She was breathing fast giddy with the up-surging wave of orgasm already taking root in her belly. He left her right nipple and blew on the wet peak and moved to the left mound screaming for his attention. He looked at her as she watching him with her half-mast dreamy eyes.  He then started to kiss her chest… the area between her breasts and moved down towards her navel. He licked her navel and felt her tremble.

As he moved lower, he caught her panty edge in his teeth and dragged it down gently. Soon the panty was off too and she reflexively cupped herself. He moved upwards towards her face and gently but passionately kissed her as she let go of her inhibition and kissed him back.

“…Ria …Ria…if I don’t get inside you soon…. I am going to cum all over your stomach….” He said into her mouth huskily.

…Tu jo mujhe aamila…. Sapne hue sirphire…

Ria was feeling euphoria penetrate her pores even as she kissed him again feeling bold to take the initiative. She held him through the track pant and he swore… immediately leaving the bed and switching off the lights plunging the room in total darkness as he came towards her. He climbed on top of her again and she heard him… felt him remove his pants and boxers. She felt his erection near her thighs and held him… again… hering him suck in his breath…Oh how she loved that sound… He was so huge… she gasped. She heard a wrapper as he moved away…. He must be putting on the condom, she thought. She saw his silhouette come towards her again and felt him at her entrance. He gently fingered her and murmured sweet nothings into her ear. She held him tight towards her wanting to feel him chest to chest but… he hadn’t removed his shirt.

He was driving her crazy as his fingers explored her secret crevice and she lost herself in the moment.

“..th…that’s it Ria…” He whispered into her ears as he touched her clit. “…You are… so wet… Is it for me dear…?”.  

She knew what he wanted to hear. “…Yes… its all for you… only you…”

 He kissed her and pinched her clit and she shattered with a loud cry. She came with his finger moving in and out of her wetness…. He applied her juices around her clit. Even as she came down from her maiden orgasm, she felt him at her entrance. She was a little anxious but he kissed her shoulders and neck and she was back into the game.

He whispered again, “Ria…it will pain… a little but… I will not hurt you…trust me…”

 Ria nodded. Suddenly he bit her shoulder and she cried out at the sting when he entered her and slowly he filled her.

She felt complete.

…koun tujhe yun pyaar karega… jaise main karti hun….

******************************************************************

Gaurav was in heaven he was sure. He was inside Ria… her softness… the only place he had ever yearned to be…. The way she was reacting to his touch putting in all her trust in him, was too much for him to endure. He slipped out of her wet tight cul-de-sac and plunged inside again deep till she could no longer take him in. He repeated till he was thrusting in and out at a breath-taking speed and she matched him thrust to thrust. He touched her clit and she splintered screaming out something unintelligible… he followed her soon after crying out her name and fell on her…. releasing inside her.

That was the best… THE BEST release he ever had. She had sheathed him so tightly… fuck… they matched each other so well…. He discarded the condom and got back to the bed lying next to her facing her. He pulled her tightly against his chest as she looked up at him her beautiful eyes filled with tears sparkling in the dark.

“…Did…I hurt you Ria?” He frowned. Oh God…

“…No…No… It was the best moment of my life Gaurav. Th…Thank you for this.” Ria whispered as her eyes shut.

Gaurav continued to hold her close to him as if she would disappear and soon, he was asleep…

For the first time in years he slept peacefully…deeply and he didn’t have the nightmare…

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 36

The next morning Ria stirred in bed snuggling back into the soft comforter and  then the events of the last evening jarred up her senses and she was instantly awake. It was 9AM… what…?  Never before in her life had she woken up after 7AM. What would appa say? But… she realized with a start that no one would say anything now and that slowed down her racing heart. She freshened up and wore another gown purchased for her. She loved the soft cotton material and color choice. She loved the way the gown fell upto her ankles flaring a little around her hips bringing out her figure in a flattering way. Would Gaurav like the fit…. she wondered as she looked into the full-length mirror. She was smiling as she came out to the hall but smile was gone when she saw the empty place. Even without asking anyone or checking out she knew that Gaurav was not at home and was utterly disappointed. But then what was she expecting…? She heard Keith in the kitchen and went there to fix a breakfast for her rumbling tummy.

“…Yes sir…. Ok sir, got it…” she heard Keith speak as she entered the kitchen. Keith turned around from the window where he stood speaking on the mobile phone. He nodded to her and smiled as he continued, “…. yes sir. She is here. Do you want to speak…? uh…ok sir.” He disconnected the call.

“Was that Gaurav on the line?”

 “Yes Mrs. Chopra….” He replied.

Ria laughed and said, “…Keith… what the hell…? please call me Ria. I feel so out of place anyways…. Can you make this less formal for me…?”

Keith smiled and nodded. “When alone I will call you by your name. But in front of Sir and anyone else or any other location besides home I will address you as Ma’am…Strict instructions from Sir….”

 Ria sighed and nodded looking at his phone questioningly. Keith was still smiling as he said, “Sir has asked you to have the breakfast of your choice and relax. Chef Keith at your service…” He bowed in a mock gesture and she laughed, all the tension draining away. “…In case you need to go somewhere … like shopping, temple…just anywhere, just say it and I will take you there…”

Ria was amused. She had been fiercely independent all her life and this was strange now… “Its ok Keith. I will cook something for myself. And I can go shopping later on my own. You don’t have to bother…”

Keith abruptly said, “…Following orders Ria. You may check your phone for messages. Sir has sent you a few. Please be seated at the dining table. I will get you some piping hot Masala upma and filter coffee…”

If Ria had been surprised before, this took the cake. “How do you…um… this is my favorite breakfast ….”

 Keith replied as he got back to the preparations. “…Not me, Ria. Sir had the kitchen stocked yesterday as per your choice of food. He is the one who knows what you like…” He turned back towards the stove when he suddenly stopped and turned around again. “…And Ria….thank you… once again for everything… but mostly for coming into his life… He is…a good man.”

“…um…Ok Keith… I get it…” she said her heart soaring with joy. “…Can you at least tell me where he is?”

“I think you should check the messages Ria. Sir may want you to reply back.” Keith said as he turned to make the breakfast.

Ria went back to her room to hunt for her mobile. She had never bothered to check any messages throughout last evening. As expected, her phone battery had drained out. She kept it for charging in the drawing room and sat on the nearest armchair even as she started reading out her message. Before she knew, her message box was flooded with congratulatory messages from all her friends and acquaintances…

Oh, my goodness… how did everyone know about her wedding?

The one from Preeti read. ‘So… darling Chupa rustum… you come for a job and married the bossman himself… eh…? All OK dear…? I am worried… I hope you dint make any hasty decision… call me…’

Preeti had sent an attachment with her congratulations. She opened it and was shocked to see her wedding pic was published in an online newspaper

  MOST ELIGIBLE BACHELOR FINALLY TIES THE KNOT.

In the recent turn of events industrialist and scion of Chopra group of hospitals, Gaurav Chopra tied the knot with Ria Narsimhan in an intimate ceremony attended by select close friends. It is to be noted that it was Ms. Narsimhan’s testimony that had played a crucial part in bailing Gaurav out of a messy trial involving the assault and alleged rape of an ex-employee. So, is this payback time? Ms. Narsimhan’s parents were conspicuous by their absence and repeated attempts to contact them for comment proved futile…….

Ria closed the message window. She hated publicity especially after what had transpired those days following the trial. Right from her character assassinations to digging up dirt against her family, she had felt so… exposed, she hated the media. And now this…

Wait… if the news had come online then It probably would have made it to the newspaper stand as well. Ria groaned inwardly as she went to check the days newspapers. There were four of them and each had a front-page picture of her wedding day followed by an article based on the journalist’s views. As she forced her breakfast down, she read some of those articles. She couldn’t make out if they were making fun of the couple or wishing them. She was lost in though and was startled when her phone rang.

She rushed to the armchair and saw her screen. It flashed, Private Number. Her heart was galloping…. as it always did around Gaurav.

“Hello”

“Where were you? I tried calling you and then left messages. Are you… ok?” Gaurav sounded concerned.

“…I…Um…I am fine Gaurav…. um… are you working today…?” She asked.

“Uh… yes. The meeting was unavoidable. But listen, do not go out anywhere without Keith. Do you understand…?”

There was a change of tone which she couldn’t understand. Wait…why?

“Why do I need a bodyguard Gaurav?” Ria asked again…

She heard him sigh and say, “…Will you please stop resisting and listen… Ria? I will explain things to you gradually… But for now, wherever you go, Keith goes too.  Got it…?”

Ria didn’t like to be treated with kid gloves but she was in no mood to start an argument over phone. Also something in his tone scared her. So, she just replied, “Fine…. I understand. And um… umm… did you see the newspapers today…?”

There was a pause. He then said softly, “yes…I did. See you later”.

And he disconnected…

***********************************************************************

Gaurav looked at his phone screen, staring at Ria’s picture…it was one taken yesterday at the wedding and she didn’t even know. He felt like a creep hiding things from her but till he was convinced his past hadn’t returned to haunt him and the others he cared about, he couldn’t involve her in the mess. The lesser she knew the better it was.  Ria had asked him about the newspapers. Of course, he had seen them for he was the one who had got them published. He needed closure on that front especially after all that media trial during his recent case. Though he had legitimate reasons for the same, he hated himself for it. He knew it would be torturous for Ria to see her pictures splashed all over the media. She had had enough already following those days of the trial. After the emotional roller coaster, she had been through last couple of days; this was the last she needed.  But he had seen too much of these debacles and knew it would pass soon and the media would lose interest since they were now a boring married couple. He hated leaving her back at home. Luckily for him he had his man Friday Keith who conveyed everything happening on the home front to him. He had taken the coward’s way out.

He remembered Ria standing in her room yesterday with a forlorn look on her pretty face. He had felt her cry silently on their way home from her parents’. How he hated them for making her miserable. He knew, in spite of everything, she loved her family and had gone to the extreme… married him… to save them from all the so-called mess she had apparently put them into. He wanted to take her in his arms and let her cry into his chest…like that night in Parijath…. He wanted to comfort her and hold her till she was drained out totally. Then he would have wanted to carry her to his room and lay her on his bed spooning her and the very thought gave him peace. He knew that if he had taken the first step, she would have caved in. But he also knew that it was her weak moment and he didn’t want to take any advantage of her emotional turmoil. With a reluctant mind he had dragged himself out of her room.

He had wanted to check on her later before going to bed. Neither of them had eaten anything but he was concerned if Ria was going to sleep hungry. He went towards her door. It was closed and the lights were off but something had told him she wasn’t asleep. He waited for a while hoping that they could speak…she could vent out…hell…he wanted to talk to her. But he let go and got back to his room.

The nightmare had come again. In the last couple of years, the frequencies had reduced but whenever they came, he would be drained out totally and be sleep-deprived for the next couple of days. But surprisingly this time the intensity of the nightmare was lower. He wasn’t weeping like he usually did when he woke up from it. He knew it had to be because of the person next door. He had wondered if she was disturbed by his cries and had walked towards her room desperate to seek her company. But something stopped him and he had dragged himself back to his bed. Sleep eluded him but this time he didn’t feel the paucity of the same and he wasn’t tired.

He had few hours of sleep and woke up at his usual time at 4AM followed by work-out in his home gym. Every time his thoughts would go towards Ria’s bedroom, he would want to see her and imagining her sleeping peacefully with her lips slightly apart turned him hard instantly. God…he had it bad. Keith was there by 6AM and his breakfast was ready by 6.45AM. Keith was surprised but the man never asked personal questions. He left right on schedule for office at 7.15AM. Today however, he wasn’t interested in doing anything. He wanted to meet Ria, talk to her, have breakfast with her. But he knew she would see the newspapers and probably breakdown. Ria was a strong girl but there were things even strong people couldn’t withstand. He would have held her, comforted her. But he couldn’t afford to lose control before her of=r show her his vulnerability.

So, he had sneaked out of his house and come to his office. He had decided to spend the entire day here and go home only late in the evening. This would be his schedule for a while at least… it would be the best for both of them. As he sipped the horrid machine-made tea…. he only thought of those almond eyes.

Someday… he decided right then…someday soon she would be his, his forever.

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Three days… Three goddamn days… and he had ghosted her…

Something was wrong. Something was bothering Gaurav. Ria knew he was attracted to her just like she was to him. Then why did he not want to speak with her? She didn’t have his mobile number as yet. But he wasn’t taking her calls in office too. Three days…. she had spent three whole days waiting for him. Then she had gone shopping with Megha. Keith was keeping a watch though subtly while she had lunch with Megha while Megha spoke about her complications in early pregnancy and Manek. But not a word about Gaurav, however much Ria tried probing her. Eventually, she gave up. Just before they had parted Megha had hugged her and said “Hey Ria… you are good for him”. Those words kept her smiling all through the day. Megha had left for Delhi later to her maternal home for her delivery. She had come down just for their wedding.

 Back home she wanted to talk to someone besides Keith. She contemplated calling Preeti or Padma…but she knew they would still be full of questons especially with the newspaper fiasco and they would need details. What would she tell them?

 She spent time in the beautiful garden where Keith told her stories about different plants and kept her entertained. In one corner of the garden she saw few paintings of flowers…. nature painting. The most beautiful she had ever seen. Again, she saw the initials GC on each of them and Keith confirmed Gaurav had done those. When it came to Gaurav, Keith had been a good listener but he never shared anything about his employer or his life.

Last evening, he even allowed her to cook dinner. He was a sport and helped her prepare the elaborate spread. She prepared Dum aloo, palak paneer, jeera rice, daal fry and raita. All were Gaurav’s favorite food items. Keith was always around till Gaurav came home. But when he didn’t turn up even at 10PM, she was exhausted and sleep had claimed her. She had slept on the couch in the hall but had woken up in her bed at around 7AM today morning. She hadn’t even stirred when Gaurav had carried her in…

She quickly freshened up and rushed out to catch up with Gaurav. To her dismay he had just left and she had rushed to the balcony only to see his car move out of the gate. Tears filled her eyes as she wondered for the umpteenth time what was wrong in their marriage. Though it was a marriage of convenience… a contract based one, it was still a marriage after all. Couldn’t they just talk like a normal couple? Was it something to do with her?

She wiped her tears and went back into the drawing room where Keith had kept her breakfast ready. The lovely aroma of the sambhar had her mouth-watering and she had the lip-smacking idli sambhar and her coffee. She took the dishes to the kitchen where Keith looked at her with understanding written in his eyes. But as usual he didn’t say anything and she was grateful for that. She thanked him and went back to her room where she spent the morning researching for designs for her new centre. Just after lunch when she considered taking a catnap, her phone pinged with an incoming message. She was excited. Would it be Gaurav? She quickly unlocked her phone and checked but there was an unknown but visible number this time. Her excitement was short lived when she read the contents.

‘Meet me tomorrow 10AM. It’s about your husband. Things you should know. You have been kept in the dark. Time for secrets to come out. Will message location tonight. And… lose the watchdog… cu’

What on earth was this? A freakily cryptic message… What secrets?? Ria was plagued by thoughts. Was this some kind of a joke? Swara’s warning played in her mind. But she knew everyone wanted a piece of information about Gaurav…. from her. Just after the trial the media had hounded her and it was sheer torture. Luckily it was over quickly, within days. Otherwise it would have been a living hell for her family. Was the sender of this message too someone who wanted bytes from her? And did he/she just refer to Keith as a watchdog? That means… she thought with a shudder, the sender knew Keith was to accompany her everywhere…? Howcome…? She had only gone out a couple of times…

After contemplating different options and getting no respite she messaged back:

‘Who is this? Kindly identify yourself’

She got a reply immediately.

‘You will know everything once we meet. It’s important for many people and not just you. If you don’t meet me this time, you will continue the farce called marriage. That Asshole doesn’t deserve you.’

Ria was angry:

‘You just called my husband names and you expect me to believe you? Just…who the hell ru?’

Again, there was a quick reply:

‘Apologies if ur feelings are hurt. Just meet me once, Ria. Just….save urself. Please meet me once. JUST ONCE….’

Ria’s anxiety levels had reached epic heights. After thinking for about an hour she made up her mind

‘I clearly feel ur deluded and I don’t want to be a part of ur brigade. I am not interested in anything remotely linked with my husband’s past…’

Wow that felt good. Immediately she got a reply,

‘UR the one deluding urself. Ur living in a fool’s paradise. U WILL regret this. He is not who u think he is. Meet me once….’

Ria blocked the number.

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 35

The next day arrived swiftly, faster than she could think of. Gaurav had asked her to pack her bag and check out of the hostel which she had done last evening. She packed a little handbag … well that’s all she had taken when she had run away from Warangal. She had barely slept the night in spite of the fact that the earlier night was also a witness to her insomnia. Ria couldn’t wait to get out of this place… somehow it gave her the creeps ever since she had read the newspaper last morning. Her feelings were paradoxical… while at one end she was happy to get a chance to follow her dreams, without having to bother about anyone whereas at the other end she felt guilty about what she had set to do… She decided to clamp down her thoughts. Today, she decided with a firm resolve she was not going to sweat over anything and let fate take its course.

As promised, Manek’s wife Megha, who was at least six months pregnant, met her at the hostel society gate and from there, she took Ria to a hotel room. The next hour was spent in helping Ria with her saree , the print henna on her hands and with her make-up and hair do. there were a couple of women who had been hired to help Megha. Ria wondered what the fuss was all about but deep within she was excited to dress up… for Gaurav. She didn’t know where this was going to lead to but she was sure about one thing… She didn’t have to pretend before Gaurav or to become what he wanted… She was in her most comfortable element with him. Megha, she realised was a sweetheart. She belonged to a well-off business family and had met Manek during one of their business conventions where she was spearheading the campaign for her company. Manek had apparently pursued her on a project and Megha blushed when she told Ria how few business meetings turned to an eventual marriage and Ria was in tears as she smiled. Ria was glad Megha didn’t ask anything about her in return… she didn’t know if she could reveal anything to this lovely woman. Megha kept chatting about her impending baby shower in Delhi at her parent’s place. But Ria barely focused now… it was almost time. She had butterflies in her stomach and couldn’t eat a morsel of the lovely breakfast spread in the hotel. Finally, when she looked at herself in the mirror, she couldn’t recognize herself. Megha had gone overboard…. But somehow, she loved what she saw.

Megha stood behind her and said, “Wow you look amazing Ria. Just wait till Gaurav bhaiyya sees you…”

Ria blushed as she looked down to adjust her saree and they stepped out of the hotel room. Soon they reached the temple. Ria saw that the arrangements were already made…. And was stunned to see the spread of floral decorations everywhere. Gaurav …looked like had gone beyond the basics. The marigold and roses with merging lilies were arranged in equal proportions everywhere and she loved the fragrance of the mogra gajra which Megha got for her hair and pinned it. The sacred fire pit was arranged at the centre with beautiful kolu drawn around it… it was just like in her dreams and her eyes welled up. Megha left her there and disappeared citing some work left to be done before the wedding. Her heart beat suddenly accelerated and she knew…. he was here and then heard murmurs… when she looked to her left she saw him. Gaurav was dressed in an off white Sherwani. He had a flowing red dupatta and a matching turban too. He looked like a prince…correction…. a king. But though her heart skipped a beat looking at him, this only scared Ria further and she shut her eyes trying to breathe to calm herself. She told herself…everything was going to be fine.  

She felt a warm palm covering hers. “Hey… are you alright…?” a soft voice asked. His voice actually soothed her nerves. She nodded, with her eyes still closed. He said, “Ria, look at me…” She turned towards him and opened her eyes. Gaurav was looking at her with a little smile. He held both her hands as he continued, “… I know… the circumstances of a big day like this… haven’t been ideal at all. I know you may have had different aspirations; you surely would have wanted your family and friends to be there… I …er…I just tried to make this experience a little less… painful for you. I promise you Ria, I will give you everything you desire and leave no stone unturned to make you comfortable in this period of our marriage….” Hearing his, Ria teared up again and pressed her palms to his.

She said, “…Thank you… it’s beautiful …this everything here…”.

********************************************************************************

Gaurav thought this was the happiest moment of his life…. Everything looked surreal… for once he wasn’t bothered about the events surrounding the impending nuptials and he just wanted to let go…For once in his life he didn’t want to be worried about any consequences of his actions… about how his parents or extended family would react. He didn’t even know where his parents were, neither did they call him or text him after his trial. The people who mattered to him were all there. And Ria… she was stunning as a bride… far more beautiful than he had imagined and he just couldn’t take his eyes off her. But her tears… they were tearing him from within… was she sad to be in this…? Was it just desperation driving her… to be tied to him? That was a heart sinking feeling…

The rituals took place as per mixed traditions. The application of sindoor, tying the mangalsutra taali, exchange of garlands and then the pheras. They then did the pooja of the presiding deity and had the prasad. The pandit blessed them and wished them a long and happy married life. The registrar present got their marriage certificate signed and witnessed. It would take a month for it to get registered as per norms but officially he had got his bases covered. Gaurav looked towards Ria. She was speaking to Megha and looked carefree now with a smile on her face. He just hoped he could keep it there.

He hadn’t taken the conventional way of dating Ria or asking her parents or the like… even his proposal was weird. He knew he had taken advantage of a situation… he felt like an opportunist. But he just knew he was right. He felt it within… more strongly than anything else in his life. He knew that he had fallen for her so badly it was a point of no return and just hoped he could make her happy. He knew she was upset but could also sense she had feelings for him. She had faced so much the last few months and didn’t deserve the crap life threw at her. He was saving her from obvious depression….at least that’s what he told himself. In reality though…he was saving himself…his sanity. He hoped and prayed to the presiding deity that his decisions didn’t boomerang.

As a couple they met up with Manek and Megha and Keith and had a traditional south Indian lunch together. Finally, they exited the temple Gaurav held an exuberant Ria’s hands and as Keith got their decorated vehicle around, he said “…Ria…let’s visit your house and meet your parents. I am sure you would want to seek their blessings….” Ria’s smile died and he almost kicked himself for it. But he knew she valued traditions and come what may, that part was very important for her. “…Ria, you are now my wife. I only want you to be happy. I know your family is very important to you irrespective of whatever has transpired between you and you have always done everything possible keeping their best interest in mind. So, before they from others and get more upset and butt of ridicule let’s visit them, ok…?”

 Ria smiled an unsure one. “Thank you, Gaurav… for… thinking about everything. I am skeptical that’s all…our last meeting was… not … it didn’t go well…”.

Hearing her address, him by his name gave him great pleasure. Gaurav got her hand to his chest and said softly, “…don’t be Ria…. I will be there with you. We shall see this through together…. So, let’s go…?” Ria only nodded her smile reaching her eyes now.

As their car moved out of the temple compound and on the road, Gaurav was lost in thought about what was to come. He had already started feeling the marriage was permanent. He didn’t want to think about a year from today. He just hoped this marriage worked out. He wanted to share his life with Ria… share hers too. He hoped it was more than a contract… a permanent commitment. He just had to play his cards well. and… he would have to keep his skeletons locked firmly in his cupboard.

 His past was dark and he had to leave it buried… forever.

********************************************************************************

Gaurav and Ria stood hand in hand outside her flat and rang the bell. Everyone in the society around their building had turned to look at them as they had stepped out of their decorated car. The same people who had talked about her behind her back were looking at her with renewed expressions. Whether it was respect or what… she couldn’t say. Mr. Joshi had leaned out of the balcony so much…she thought he would fall down two floors. She had chuckled but was somber again dreading the impending meet with her parents.

Ria was shivering though it was hot. Gaurav squeezed her hand and said, “…Don’t worry I am right here with you. We shall leave whenever you want to. Just give me an indication….”

The door opened and her mother stood… open mouthed. She quickly gasped and yelled, “Aaiyyo Parmeshwara (Oh God)… what is this? POOJA… oh Pooja… just… just come here…”

What was Pooja doing here…? Ria wondered.

Pooja and her father came rushing out on hearing her mother and her heart fell. “What happened Gayathri….” her father started to ask and stopped midway when he saw them at the door. But he seemed to recover faster than her mother and said, “…Just…just come inside. People are watching…”.

They walked in and he immediately shut the door.

He totally ignored Gaurav but gave an angry look to Ria. “…What on earth were you thinking? Have you lost your mind…? Where the hell were you all these days… you ran away from such a wonderful alliance I had got for you…without a care in the world and now this…” he scolded pointing at her up and down.

“Appa….I… I… I…” Ria stuttered.

“…Just shut up ok?” Her father interrupted. He was writhing in anger as his voice rose. “…Haven’t you embarrassed us enough?… Your mama isn’t talking to us because of your stunt in Warangal… Now you have crossed all your limits. I am forced to wonder if this was your plan all along? Is that why you got rid of Vikram? You wanted to settle with this…this… man…?” He said pointing towards Gaurav. “…wait a minute… he is the boss isn’t he…? The one whom you chose over us…? Gave up our reputation and made us the talk of the town…?”

Ria felt Gaurav squeeze her hand again where he held it. She was miserable and having him by her side was the only reason she could stand the hurtful words aimed at her. She couldnt believe her parents were such poor judge of people… especially Vikram.

Suddenly her mother came to her and shook her by her shoulders, “…RIA… Nīṅkaḷ karppamāka irukkiṟīrkaḷā? you aren’t pregnant, are you?"

“N…no amma…” Ria whispered…

“Then why did you do this? You know Pooja is newly married and we were to celebrate Ganesh festival with her in-laws coming over next weeks. As it is, your scandal… that court case and engagement break up shook us so badly. We covered it up somehow. Now this… How can we explain things to her in-laws?” her mom wailed…

Ria just couldn’t take it anymore. Her folks were miserable….so was she.

Gaurav sensed Ria’s plight… his blood boiled at what she was put through. Controlling his anger, he spoke, “Mr. and Mrs. Narsimhan, we are sorry that we tied the knot in this manner. But we were scared of your reactions. Please bless us as we start our new journey….”

“…JUST TAKE HER AND GET OUT OF THIS HOUSE…” Her father yelled looking at Gaurav. Then he turned towards Ria and said, “…and you. Don’t you dare keep in touch with us anymore…. We don’t want your unholy presence in this house…” Saying he walked out of the drawing room into his bedroom.

Ria looked at her mother hopefully…,”…amma please…” she said softly.

Her mother turned around and followed her husband inside.

Pooja came towards them. She was fuming. “I just hope you haven’t ruined my life. If I have to hear a single taunt from my in-laws over this, I will never forgive you… “.

Gaurav pulled at Ria’s hand slowly and said, “…Let’s go Ria…come in…”

“…Wait… Pooja… I want thatha’s clock…just that and nothing else…”

Pooja gave her a bored look. “…Oh that… its there with your horrid clothes… I was to throw them away anyways. Take what you want…”

Ria rushed inside to her room and took the rickety clock from her cupboard… she looked around the room which held her memories… so many of them, both happy and sad… Tears flew freely as she held the clock to her chest and quickened her pace  back to the door where Gaurav waited for her.

As a child and during her growing up years Ria had always dreamed of tying the knot someday and that involved people around her. Lots and lots of people. She had visualized herself as the bride with a faceless groom and had fantasized going through all the rituals…. With her parents happily doing the kanyadaan and the relatives for a change not gossiping about her appearance. She had thought of the noisy household filled with guests and at the end of her dreams she had wondered how she could ever be able to leave her childhood home.She certainly hadn’t in the wildest of those dreams thought of a hasty marriage with barely three people in attendance. She definitely hadn’t thought of the reception at her home they received from her folks. Worst of all she hadn’t expected to start a new phase of her new life in solitude. Yes, she had come along with Gaurav back to his silent house. There was no one to welcome her. Gaurav was quiet all throughout the journey from her parents’ home to his, while she kept shedding silent tears hugging the clock. Keith was nowhere around either, she assumed he must have been given the day off.

Gaurav escorted her to her room. It was beautifully made up with pastel shades. She hadn’t seen her room during her visit the earlier day and didn’t want to ask either. She was too nervous about the whole scenario then. To her surprise Gaurav had got her few clothes too which were hung in her wardrobe. He had handed a card to her and said, “…uh…Megha helped me buy some clothes for you. But I wanted you to have your choice. So, feel free to buy whatever you want….” He must have sensed her discomfort and had said, “Look Ria…, I know you are very upset about today. Just give them some time. They will come around. … Uh… are you hungry? Keith has prepared dinner before leaving for the day. I shall serve it whenever you want to eat…”

Ria looked up into those beautiful black eyes full of concern and smiled. “…Thank you for all this. It’s beautiful. And I am… not hungry… just… um… sleepy. Um… I shall have some milk though…before sleeping. Um… that’s ok…?”

“…This is your home as well from today Ria. Feel free to do as you wish, ok…? Milk is in the fridge. Let me know whenever you want something…. Other days you can ask Keith. He will be at your service…”. He smiled as she nodded and Gaurav immediately left the room. She heard the neighboring door click close indicating he had retired to his room. She wondered if she would meet him again that day. She didn’t feel like having anything that evening and went to bed early. She had barely slept for about an hour but was suddenly wide awake…slightly disoriented with the new surroundings and as waved of anxiety surged through her she couldn’t sleep. She just lay there on the bed wide awake in the dark. A few minutes later she heard footsteps outside her room. Her heart was beating fast as she peeped toward her closed door. She saw the footsteps halt outside her door through the crevice under the closed door. He stood for a while and then moved away. She didn’t know if she was disappointed or relieved and soon sleep and exhaustion claimed her.

Somewhere in the night she was woken up by some sounds. She thought she was dreaming probably due to the unfamiliar surroundings, yet again. Before she could get her bearings, she heard. ‘…. no… no… just leave …. (muffled sounds) …  no … (crying sounds) … please don’t… no….’.

Was it a movie playing? Ria wondered.  She got up and walked towards the door slightly opening it to avoid the noise and peeped outside. But there was no light or any sign of the TV playing and it was then she heard it again. The sounds continued coming for a while and she realized it wasn’t a movie at all. It was Gaurav who was making those sounds. Was he having a nightmare…? She wanted to go to his room and check if he was alright but didn’t know what she would say or if he would like her interference. She got back to her room and shut the door locking it, as she got into her bed… sleep miles away. As she lay anxious with tear-filled eyes, her heart breaking over her helplessness to help Gaurav, wondering about the man who was now her husband, the sounds ceased. Within a couple of minutes, once again she heard footsteps outside and like earlier, they stopped outside her room. She thought of switching on the light and checking things out. But then once again, the footsteps moved away.

 After twisting and turning for an hour or so she fell asleep… somehow believing her search for the perfect life partner had actually ended…

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 34

The next morning Ria was alone in her room, her roommate was long gone. She had continued being the night watchman on her bed as the other woman woke up at the crack of the dawn and prepared to go to work. She was gone by 6AM and for a moment Ria envied that woman’s simple life… Once she was back from a breakfast which she barely picked, she kept looking at the ugly huge wall clock in her room, wondering what story the clock may have to tell… I may have witnessed so many people here and she wondered to whom it belonged that the owners had retained it when they had renovated the place to make the hostel accommodations…

Her thatha (grandfather) had had a similar looking one but of a smaller size and though it didn’t work since an eternity, he had kept it in his cupboard saying it always reminded him of her patti… (grandmother). He had often regaled her and Pooja with stories from his life as a public-school teacher in Vellore. He always held the old clock in his hand as he relieved nostalgia. She had refused to part with it when her parents had given away his meagre belongings after he had passed and it was still in her cupboard back home. She hoped she could take it back someday.  She had taken it upon herself to preserve his memories. He was the one who always encouraged her. Even today he would have set things right at home and maybe in her life for her… how she missed him.  The clock struck 11 and her phone rang.

Private number.

“Hello…”

“It’s me. What is your answer? Is it a yes or a no...” Gaurav asked her getting straight to the point. Ria was teary…what was wrong with her? She seemed to cry at the drop of a hat these days… Oh Thatha… what should I do??

“Are you there?” She was jolted back from her thoughts…

“Hello …sir…um…”

“So, what’s it then a yes… or a no?” He asked again and she couldn’t make out the emotion in his voice.

“Yes” she replied so softly she wondered if she could hear herself.

“Come again? I didn’t hear you… I think?” A surprised voice sounded from the other end.

Ria sighed and said “yes… I am ready. But…”

“…I am texting you an address….” He interrupted her, “… Be there at 7pm sharp tonight. We will go over the terms. You may add in whatever you wish to… if reasonable of course… and.…” he paused and she heard him take a deep breath.”…and tomorrow… we will get married“.

Wait what??

“Tomorrow?” she squealed.

“Look Ria I can’t talk more on this line. We will meet today evening and continue this… conversation…”. Saying that he abruptly ended the call.

   The clock struck 12 with a bong and Ria realized that she still had her phone at her ear. She held it in front of her and checked her texts. Manek of course had sent some address. So, he must know about the marriage arrangement too! She put the address on the Google map. It was about an hour away from her hostel. She had to leave at 5.45PM at least, or should she leave earlier considering the bad traffic at the time…? And what would she wear…?

She shook her head and chuckled wondering what was she thinking… She had her life at stake as she was all set to make an important decision…. Actually ‘made’… and she was thinking about clothes and traffic!

As she got dressed at 5pm that evening wearing the only cotton salwar kameez that was less faded and less worn, she got a text again from Manek , car waiting at the north end of your lane. Gate 2. Brown color Wagon R. Driver name: Ravi.

That brought down her stress level to an extent. She wasn’t a huge fan of solitary adventures … like travelling alone at late hours to new locales… trust Gaurav to take care of her fears…of course he did…he always did. She took in a deep breath and looked into the half-length mirror fixed to her cupboard. She straightened the lemon yellow colored salwar kameez trying to ease out the creases. She had worn a pair of tiny pearl earrings that she had packed for Warangal. It was a gift from her late grandfather on her 15th birthday and now the only piece of jewelry with her. She had topped her school in the board exams. He parents were happy but not elated though. Appa had said, “This is the beginning, Ria. You shouldn’t rest on these little laurels…” LITTLE?? “…. You have long way to go. Remember the dream job offering you a great salary? That should be your ultimate goal. Do not rest till you reach there.” And he had gone back to the newspaper he was reading. There were no sweets prepared or bought to give their neighbours who kept asking, so did her teachers and school friends. She hadn’t even gone to collect her certificate and had asked Pooja instead, being embarrassed.

Ria sighed as she returned to her present form in the mirror. She thought she looked Okay. She had never given much attention to her appearances before Gaurav. Amma had said those were frivolous distractions and most of the time her wishes to own something fancy were nipped in the bud itself. Her friends used to occasionally call her behenji but it never had bothered her, until today. She wanted to look good, smell good… In spite of the situation, she wanted to dress up for him. She wondered what Gaurav would think about her clothes today. Though she knew he was beyond all that… he wasn’t a shallow person like her prospective suitors of Vikram but still, would the tall, fair and handsome Gaurav actually like her…? As marriage material… even though she knew it was an agreement they were getting into…?

About an hour and fifteen minutes later minutes later she stood outside a pent house. The journey to his part of the town had been quicker than expected. He lived in a 12 storied tower and she had to give identification at the gate. She was awed with the state of art security. She loved the elevator too… it was smooth just like the one at the hospital but grander. Within seconds she was on the 9th floor and when she stepped out, she realized there was only one house on the entire floor.

Of course.

Ria rang the bell and waited.  Within a minute the door opened and a smiling Keith in white overalls, which seemed like a uniform welcomed her smiling which reduced her heightened anxiety considerably. “Welcome Ria, sir will be here shortly. Please come in…”.  He was acting so formal Ria almost chuckled. He led her through a short foyer which opened into one of the most elegant living rooms she had ever seen in her life.

WOW

The walls were painted white and had pockets of little lights which gave a lovely cozy feeling to the room. The furniture was rosewood as per her knowledge. The two pairs of three by two seaters and center table looked stunning. There was a whole rack of books and trophies on one end of a wall and a TV and home theater system on the opposite wall. The end of the hall led to a balcony as she saw from her end.

“Please be seated Ria. Shall I get you tea, coffee, fruit juice or anything else you may like…? Just be comfortable …OK?”  Keith asked.

Ria looked up at him and smiled. “Um… no nothing. Thank you, Keith…. I am ok…”

Keith smiled making him look so much younger as he looked at her with a tenderness in his eyes which she always wanted to see in her father’s.  She blinked back tears…

“As you wish…Ria. If you need anything just call out”. Saying that he left. As she looked around, she realized there were no pictures or any personal kind of things except… horses… There were derby pictures, pictures of some Jockeys with their trophies…She couldn’t identify Gaurav in any of them though but his love for the equestrian sport reflected in the décor. It was then her eyes fell on a black and white sketch in a corner. She went towards it and saw… it was a beautiful sketch of a mother and a child. The mother had lifted the child in her arms and the child was angelic in his toothless smile. She was wondering about the artist when she saw a scrawling at the right corner…

GC

Was it Gaurav? He could make such a beautiful sketch? It was unbelievable. But then the man was an enigma in himself… what other talent did he possess?

“… hello Ria…?” A soft voice spoke. Her belly fluttered as she turned around. He was dressed in faded jeans and a loose white full sleeves shirt as usual buttoned at the wrist and the neck and sneakers. Sneakers …at home? Couldn’t he just relax in his own home?

He walked towards her and saw the sketch in her hand, he took it from her and placed it on the shelf with a thud… Did she intrude…?

“…I am sorry… I just saw the horse’s pictures…they were beautiful to ignore…”

That got a smile back on his handsome face and he walked with hands in his pockets towards the pictures. He was close enough she could inhale the citrus scent…

“…This…” He pinted to therace with Emirates writted in the background. “…This was the Dubai world cup 2016… I had… been the runner up… Do you know… it was the richest Derby in the world till 2017…My prize money funded the peadiatric surgical unit in the hospital…” He looked at it for a while and pointed to the Jockey picture. “… and that was the Chopra Group sponsored candidate… I knew he would win for us… I had selected and trained him… That… as the last race I was ever involved in…” He sighed and turned towards her. “… Please come Ria… take a seat…” He spoke ever so softly.

She sat on a single seater while he sat on the opposite side.

“…Uh… Ria… please feel at home. This is after all going to be your home for the next year… Er… Once we sign the papers, I will show you around…” He looked at her as he continued, “…look… about tomorrow. I don’t think we need to wait anymore. The faster we tie the knot, the faster we can stop the scribes from gossip…you can complete the year and …get…get free” As he said the last word he looked away. She had read the newspaper today morning in the hostel common area and put it away after the few lines she had read about her. Fortunately, there was no picture of her and no one in the hostel bothered anyways…

“But tomorrow… won’t it be too soon?” She asked wide eyed…

He stood up and walked slowly towards the balcony. As he reached there he turned around and stood leaning against the wall crossing his legs at the ankle and folded his hands.

OMG didn’t he know what he did to my heart??

“We don’t have anyone who will be attending our wedding. We will have a small ceremony in a local temple here. I know the priest there. He belongs to your community and is ready to complete the rituals… Manek and his wife Megha will be the witnesses and after about a month we can get it registered in the court. I am sure your… er… parents won’t approve of this match even without the…. conditions. You can tell them after the ceremony. What do you think…?” He said.

Ria was still trying to fathom what he had said. It looked like he had taken care of all details. It definitely made sense. In fact, the faster she got out of her  hostel the faster she could work towards her goal.

“Ok….sir But my parents don’t need to know… actually …um… I am estranged…” Her eyes filled in spite of everything… and she had a tough time keeping tears at bay. “…Um… What time tomorrow then?” she asked

He smiled SMILED… It was titillating… She had to control herself or else she would be vulnerable before him… as it is the emotional roller coaster was too much for her. He said, “Tomorrow be ready by 7am. Megha will pick you up… she will er… get you ready and our wedding muhurat is 10.20am. Is that ok?”

Ria nodded…

He came towards her and sat on the center table before her. He dragged his hand through his hair, the gesture which was now synonymous with him, gave him some sensual appeal…. Ria looked around as if to drive away the thought…

“We need to set some other rules besides the contract”, He said softly in that seductive voice which made her look at him… into the depth of his his blacks. She could only nod.

He continued, “We will have to address each other with our names. So, it will be Ria and Gaurav…ok?”

She whispered, “yes”

He smiled as he continued, “…You are free to move around and use anything here. This floor has the living room, kitchen, a study and 2 bedrooms adjacent to each other. The first is mine and second is yours. Keith as you know is the housekeeper cum cook… he leaves at night. Finally, we won’t interfere in each other’s lives. Do you have any concerns about this arrangement or questions…?”

She looked into his eyes just like a magnet drawn towards a piece of iron. “I …um… I have a question. Um…do you have a girl friend?”  She asked softly…tremor in her voice evident.

Gaurav took her hand and held it between his palms just like that night. “…Ria, I don’t have a girlfriend. I am surprised you asked me though… We should maintain the sanctity of our vows… even though … it’s temporary…”

Ria nodded and smiled, strangely pleased at his admission.

Later after a lovely dinner of her favourite curd rice for which she thanked Keith; Gaurav gave her a tour of his house. As he took her upstairs to the first level of his penthouse, he showed her the guest rooms and the home gym. He then showed her a terrace garden which had some of the loveliest blossoms she had ever seen. “This is Keith’s handiwork…”, Gaurav said waving. The huge terrace lawn was vibrant even with the artificial lighting and the fragrance didn’t want to make her leave the place… They stood there for a while and Gaurav showed her different varieties of roses and lilies… was there anything the man didn’t know…?

A glance at her watch said it was 9.30pm. She couldn’t believe she had lost track of time. When they came back to the living room, Manek was there with another man whom she recognized as one of their lawyers she had seen once with Khatiyal. Two sets of stamp paper documents were on the table.

Gaurav shook hands with the lawyer. He introduced him, officially this time, to Ria. The next half an hour was a blur. The lawyer explained contract details and other legal jargon to her and finally the contracts were signed. Though Ria was clueless about legal matters, she didn’t feel insecure. Somehow, she blindly trusted Gaurav.

As soon as they left, Ria realized it was time for her to leave as well. She hadn’t seen her room yet but she was late and she would see it anyway when she came here… tomorrow. She stood up abruptly and her knee hit the center table. She yelped and was about to fall but Gaurav was there quickly by her side grasping her elbows. He steadied her and helped her sit on a nearby chair. Her hair… unruly as ever was all over her face. Oh God it was so embarrassing… she flushed. He used his index finger to move her hair aside and tucked it behind her ear on either side concentrating in the task and Ria could hear her own breathing now.

“Are you Ok Ria?” He asked with soft concern in his voice., the one which always melted her heart.

Ria couldn’t think of anything with him so close. Somehow, she looked into his eyes and muttered, “I um… it was an overwhelming day… I guess I am tired. I will be fine. I …um… I have to go home now.”

They were so close she could feel his soft warm breath on her face as they starred at each other for a few moments. Gaurav looked down at her lips coming closer and she thought he would kiss her. Just then, the doorbell startled them and he abruptly jerked away, leaving  her hands. He cleared his throat and quickly went to answer the door even as an amused Keith rushed from wherever he had migrated to. He looked at Ria and smiled… then giving her a two finger salute he went back to his chores. It was Ravi the driver who had come to pick her. She heard Gaurav speak. “Go ahead Ravi, Ria Madam will be there soon”.

After a few minutes, Ria left Gaurav’s house and moved towards the elevator. Gaurav didn’t leave her side while they were stood in silence waiting for the elevator. It arrived soon and as its doors opened. Ria quickly stepped in trying to get her bearings together. She turned around and pressed the button for the ground level.

As the elevator doors closed, she looked up to see intense black eyes watching her…. with the same unfathomable emotion, she had often seen when he looked at her. What was it… would she ever know…? She was about to marry the man for God’s sake… A man who was a half-filled canvas waiting for the exuberance of colours…

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