Chapter 16

 Preeti didn’t react and rushed out. Her heart was working overdrive, emotions were scattered. She had to block out the information she just got. No one at home could know this. Her protective streak towards Gautam was strong… strange but strong, she thought.

‘…He is dangerous…’ the words kept ringing in her ears. But surprisingly they didn’t scare her. She was never scared of Gautam. Worried and caught in a moral dilemma but not scared… She was certain Gautam was her saviour then. Whether he had killed those other people or not, she didn’t know… The Gautam she had known couldn’t be a murderer, could he? However, it appeared she barely knew him these days. But was he in danger?

She still had some fleeting memories about the blue eyes. Once in that hellhole and once in the hospital. But her mind may have played games with her. She wasn’t functioning well for a long time even after discharge from hospital. She had colour discrimination issues for a long time.  She had difficulty when the colour shades were closer for at least six months after the incident but gradually she recovered on her own as the doctor has said she would. So was it a mistake that she had seen those stunning blue eyes? To her utmost surprise she realised she had long stopped relating Gutam with the colour of his eyes. She loved his browns. She loved the man for crying out aloud… The feelings for him ran so deep her chest tightened.

Anyway she was returning back to Mumbai in another day. Away from all the madness here. Mostly for good, this time.

 She was home just in time for breakfast. Yash made an announcement about the party next day celebrating Maasa’s birthday. Preeti decided to wait before revealing her plans to return back to Mumbai. The entire day there were people going in and out of the house as the preparations for the celebrations started in full swing. The house was getting decorated. The maids and some more contract workers were busy preparing delicacies under the supervision of her mother and tayiji.

She went back to her room to get some things done at office and to inform everyone that she would be returning in a couple of days. She was totally shaken from what had transpired in the morning and wanted to divert herself. What a mess she was in. As soon as she opened her laptop there was a knock at the door.

“Preeti? Can I have a word with you?” it was Rewa.

Preeti unlatched the door and Rewa walked in sitting on her bed with a bounce.

“Preeti Please come along with me… I have to visit the parlour and Ma won’t let me go alone. If you come as well, she won’t have a problem. Tomorrow is a very important day dear.”

“Rewa didi, I have work to complete and I don’t go to parlours…”

“…Just look at your skin it’s so dry. Your hair needs straightening too. I have kept a nice new dress for you. You will look stunning tomorrow. Please Preeti come with me?” Rewa pleaded.

Preeti nodded reluctantly and within an hour they were in a beauty salon. It was a unisex parlour and was huge with many spa and massage rooms housed beyond closed curtains. Preeti was uncomfortable and wanted to rush back home. But before she could speak, Rewa introduced her to Rohit who owned the place.

“Preeti I have booked massages for both of us. It will help you relax. Don’t refuse dear. God knows you need it.” Saying Rewa went off to her dedicated room. Preeti stood still not knowing how to react. Rohit called another lady wearing the parlour uniform and she directed Preeti to a room at the end of the corridor inside. She asked Preeti to change into the given wrap and wait for her.

Preeti entered the room and gasped to see the elegant massage set up.  There was a double bed in the centre surrounded by adjacent walls of flowing velvet curtains. The lighting gave the entire room a soft golden hue and the scented lamps, they just took her breath away. Lavender…yes these were lavender essential oils. It reminded her of the red room in Gautam’s house in Mumbai. He had a similar fragrance. She clenched her thighs and moaned as she felt her arousal slam into her core.  She suddenly stood upright remembering where she was. She shook her head and quickly changed into a wrap. She sat on the bed waiting for the masseur. She looked around and wondered how much Rewa must have spent for all this. But Rewa didn’t have any money. In fact she always struggled for petty expenses and occasionally she had sent her money. SO how could she afford all this… of course Gautam! How could she forget? He must have arranged everything she thought as anger burned within. She shut her eyes trying to remove the image of Gautam with Rewa. It was extremely painful and unbearable. No she couldn’t accept this. She decided to change back into her clothes and wait in the reception area.

She stood up from the bed and turned towards her clothes she had kept on a stand near the bed. Suddenly the door to the room opened and closed. She turned around to refuse when she stared with mouth wide open. Gautam entered the room and shut the door latching it.

She caught her bearings. She couldn’t let him affect her like this. She wasn’t doing right by her sister as well.

Hands on her hips she asked trying to hide the tremor in her voice. “What the hell are you doing here?”

Gautam chuckled and opened the bath robe he was wearing when he entered the room. He was only in his boxers the erection evident as she saw and looked away.

“Preeti we both need this. There’s lots of stress around.” He said softly as he approached her.

She walked back till her legs hit the edge of the bed. “No… I don’t want any massage. I just… I want to go home. You can have a massage with Rewa didi. She is there somewhere here…” She teared up when she spoke and her heart was heavy. She looked down trying to hide her face from him.

He came close enough she could smell his musky fragrance. That blended with the existing Lavender was driving her insides to mush.

He lifted up her chin and she closed her eyes as a tear escaped the corner of her eye. He cupped her cheeks and wiped the tear with his thumb. “Look at me Preeti…” he spoke so softly it melted her. She looked at him. “…Just enjoy this alright? I want to be with you…no one else…. just you.”

She pushed away his hands and said, “In that case call off the wedding. Why are you two timing us? Rewa didi trusts you blindly just like I did. Why on earth are you doing this? A different name, identity…what is all this?”

He sighed and said, “Preeti, now is not the time for all this. You are so uptight… so am I. We need this…” he said gesturing to the surrounding. She dint know whether it was the earnest lustful look in in his browns or the ambience in the room or the conversation with Tanveer Raisingh and her protective instincts towards him,  or fact that she wanted him with intensity she couldn’t describe… She knew she would repent later but she hugged him. He hugged her back and kissed her head. He releases the shoulder ties of her wrap and it slipped to the floor.

“He took her hand in his and said, “Lie down sweetheart and just enjoy as I make you relax…”

Like she was hypnotised, Preeti lay down on the soft bed. He got a small tray kept on the side containing different bottles. He picked up one, read it and took some in his hand. He rubbed his palms spreading it and started applying the oil on her stomach. The fragrance was awesome. As his hands moved right below her breasts she asked him in a husky voice. “What oil is this?”

He continued the massage and replied his focus not wavering one bit as he spoke. “This is the Bulgarian Rose Otto Essential oil. It helps to sooth the body and helps in the relaxation of tense muscles. And you my dear are so… tense.” He moved his hands above and rubbed her neck and upper chest. He hovered over her as he massaged her arm pits and hands which he had spread on the bed. He stared into her eyes and continued in a very soft voice. “…By removing feelings sadness, anxiety, and depression, this oil uplifts people’s sensual desires and helps them concentrate on pleasurable activities. It increases the feelings of love, gratitude, and passion and helps get rid of sadness, anger, and aggressiveness.”

Wow he knew so much. Hearing his voice raised her arousal levels to an extent that all she needed was a slight trigger and she would explode. As if reading her mind he caught her breasts in his palms and started to knead the globes gently. He knew how she reacted when he played with them. Her back arched pressing them further into his palms. He applied gentle pressure from the base to their tips and he pinched her nipples and released them. He kept repeating the manoeuvre till she could hold on no longer and she exploded. Before she came down the pinnacle of her release he was in between her thighs. He massaged each of her legs t but barely touched her apex. She was going crazy as the flame rose higher and higher slowly warming her insides. He then moved towards her centre. He let the oil drip along her slit and that felt out of this world. She was breathing heavily clutching the sheets on either side. He used his fore finger to spread the oil across her womanhood and gently massaged her outer walls with one hand. He used the index finger of his other hand to push it inside her warmth to touch her inner walls. She was now close… very close. She raised her hips as he inserted his second finger and they started to create havoc in her inside walls. He touched her indent at the same time pinched her clit. She shattered crying out his name as multiple orgasms crashed through her body wave after wave.  She lay spent on the bed and a sense of calm spread through her. He was right the oils had the power but she knew it was not just the oil, it was the masseur himself, it was HIM. He joined her within minutes. His boxers were off. He came on top of her positioning himself. She welcomed him spreading her legs and without wasting any second he slammed into her. He rubbed his chest to her oily one making his movement slippery and causing erotic sensations on her skin. He held her hands above her head intertwining her fingers and claimed her lips as he started to increase his pace. She had clutched his hips with her legs and now raised her hips to match his strokes with her own. The next moment she felt her inner walls spasming around him as she came and soon he followed her grunting loudly as he released into her.

They lay on the bed totally spent and he was spooning her drawing lazy circles on her stomach and her head resting on his other arm. He kissed her head every now and then as if checking if she was here. She took his other hand in hers and liked her fingers with his. He kissed her shoulder.

“Gautam?”

“Hmm” He grunted

“ You know I love you, right?”

He stopped kissing her and sighed. “Preeti…” he called her out in a warning tone.

“Gautam I feel horrible and guilty… for Rewa , for myself. I don’t like this…”  She turned around and looked at him. He was staring at her with the same turmoiled look. Who was he really? “…Gautam, I hate losing control and it happens when you are around…. it pains me to say this but this is our last…um…meet. I… can’t do this anymore…”

She started to get up when he suddenly pinned her under him.

“Preeti…what the fuck… what has gotten into you? You don’t trust me anymore?” he was angry.

“What trust are you talking about? You have only being lying to me…and my family. I love you so much…more than life itself but I don’t know you at all.”

“You know enough there is to know about me and you DON’T love me. You just think you do.”

“No GAutam… I LOVE YOU more than anything in this world. That’s why it hurts so much when you don’t open up to me, talk to me. This impending marriage with Rewa didi… Gautam I am not able to bear it…”

He was looking into her eyes with such an intensity she raised her hand and touched his cheek. “Talk to me Gautam…please. Tell me what is in your mind. I deserve some answers don’t you think?”

 He released her and got out of the bed and stood hand on his hips back towards her in his naked glory. After what seemed like ages he said, “I don’t know what to say. Just that you don’t deserve to be with someone like me. You are too good Preeti…just too pure and innocent…. I am… I am…not someone you should even fraternise with….” He took a deep breath and turned around facing her. He raised his palm to stop her even as she wanted to argue. “…. Enough Preeti. Get dressed. We have to leave.”

“NO..” She screamed.

He looked at her frowning as he pulled up his boxers.

She got off the bed and stood before him holding a nearby bath towel to cover herself. “I said…NO…you heard me? I don’t care what you think of yourself. You just…just waltz into my life the way you want to and then leave whenever you please…THIS IS JUST NOT DONE… You are right…” she was crying now. “…I don’t deserve you…I don’t deserve to be treated like a whore…like a keep… YOUR keep…” He came towards her to hold her but she angrily help up her palm and he stood rooted to the ground. “… you didn’t want me to come to Alwar and now you don’t want me to go back to Mumbai. Why… so that you can continue this clandestine relationship…? No…I am sorry but I can’t do this anymore. It’s very painful…” She was panting. She went close to him and looked up into his eyes. They were stormy. She continued. “…tell me who you are Gautam…or are you Vikram? Why did you save my life twelve years ago? How…how did you even know we were in that godforsaken alley?”

His eyes suddenly turned emotionless. He stiffened and looked away. He quickly put on his bathrobe and before she could say anything he was out of the room banging the door after him. The loud sound was nothing compared to the storm in her heart threatening to destroy her sanity….

As she put on her clothes Tanveer Raisingh’s words kept echoing in her head.

‘….he is dangerous….’

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 15

The next morning she dressed in her track pants and shoes and went out for a jog as told by the police. Her heart was galloping in her chest threatening to spill out of her rib cage. She barely jogged a few steps and she was sweating already. Her panic attack was starting up and she was trying every trick in her book to calm down.  Not just the impending meeting but also what was transpiring in her life. Gautam was unpredictable. She knew he was concealing so much within she worried the bubble would burst someday. But who would be there for him? His mother seemed so distant and he never spoke about her… he never spoke about anything personal. She worried about his and also about her sanity.

She remembered as children Rewa didi and she were made to sit beside maasa as she told them how cultured girls behaved. She often lectured on how cultured girls wore their clothes without revealing too much or how they put forth their views without offending anyone etc. Preeti would always question her about gender bias in their household. Yash and Rohit were allowed to go and do as they pleased but there were so many restrictions for them. Maasa however had justification for everything. She was a little way ahead of her times. She had been widowed at thirty and single handily brought up five children. She believed in education and modesty. She often said modesty was a virtue unique to women. She said, modesty was a crown to be worn by women and only then they would be respected by all. Preeti found it too medieval but Rewa didi adhered to all the rules laid down in the Sengar household. As they grew older, Maasa warned them about wayward boys, to stay away from them. She enforced the arranged marriage system. She said, it was up to them to transform arranged marriage into a love one. Preeti was at that time subdued because of the incident so the thought of being with men repulsed her.

Today, as she neared her destination, she chuckled. Maasa would have a stroke if she knew what her granddaughter had been doing. She shook her head. She was now the epitome of what Maasa called uncultured. People often spoke behind the backs of such people maasa would say. Here, forget others Preeti hated herself. She had let her heart rule her head and everything had gone downhill for her. Gautam and she both had a strong appetite for copulation. They had the power to get combusted the moment they were in the same room. Thank God for her contraceptive shots. She didn’t need any unwanted complications anymore in her life. Gautam probably knew that as well. The extremely prepared man never used a condom after their first time. That reminded her she was due for her shot in a few days….

Finally she reached the destination and looked behind her as if to check if someone was following her. She had been so lost in thought she never got to check. She didn’t feel anything amiss when she looked around. Feeling satisfied she wiped her brow and entered RA tech park premises. It was completely empty but spotlessly clean. She looked for some kind of instructions or someone who could tell her something. It was then she saw the elevator panel and walked towards it. There were four elevators but only one was working at the moment. She checked the time, she still had five minutes. She took the elevator to the fourth floor. As soon as she stepped out she saw a series of office rooms and took the direction for the one she wanted. She walked to the end of the corridor and knocked the door of office number 410.

“Come in Ms. Sengar” called a deep voice from inside.

She turned the door knob and stepped inside. Unlike the other places in these premises there were people in the room. All dressed in formals. There were three men and two women. A huge mahogany desk stood elegantly at the centre and behind that was seated inspector Tanveer Raisingh. He had aged considerably in the last twelve years.

She stood looking at everyone her anxiety rising higher every moment.

“Please take a seat Ms Sengar.”

She nodded and sat on the soft chair in front of him. She wondered since when the police stations were shifted to tech parks. She laughed mentally and gently chided herself for jesting in the situation.

She was offered breakfast which she refused. Who could eat now? She was sure she was developing an ulcer.

“Okay Ms. Sengar, let me get to the point. I am senior inspector Tanveer Raisingh and we are the Crime Branch. We are currently doing our investigations secretly hence the location.” He waved at the room.

Oh…He was in the Crime Branch… He had done well for himself she thought.

“So Ms. Sengar…” He continued. “…coming directly to the point, Is there anything you want to tell us about that day twelve years ago?”

Preeti looked up into his eyes. “Um… Sir…I told you everything that I could remember… you know I was injured terriblely…I was unconscious….”

“…Tell us in addition to all that Ms. Sengar…” He interrupted her. “…. I already know what you had told us. It’s in the records…”

“Then what else do you want to know Sir?”

“How about the truth this time Ms. Sengar?”

“Look Sir, I seriously don’t understand what else is left to say… and anyway twelve years have passed and I have moved on with great difficulty…”

“…the case is not closed Ms. Sengar. Your brother and that man…Sukhi were killed. Their killers were never caught. There were no bodies or blood at the crime scene which of course we could trace because of your car and Sukhi’s mobile phone. There were no witnesses at all. How could that be possible? The way you were hurt, even your blood traces were not found there… It proves there was someone who actually saved you and went the extra mile to cover up everything. So tell us Ms. Sengar, who was it?”

“..I don’t know what you are talking about. I am surprised that you found out what you did but I was unconscious all the time. How would I know?”

Why she didn’t want to talk about Gautam she didn’t know. It was as if she was going the extra mile to save his identity.

“Well let me tell you something Ms. Sengar. That year i.e in 2008. There were ten murders which the local police couldn’t solve but all the men were killed in a similar manner. Fine cut in the wind pipe with a sharp object. They were beaten black and blue before that. About two kilometres from your crime scene we found a body in the jungle. Exactly the same way of killing. He was beaten beyond recognition. We still don’t know who he was….”

Preeti was now scared. She was shivering. She knew this was not good. “..Wait Sir… what is this got to do with me?”

Tanveer Raisingh gave her a snide smile. “Hear me out Ms. Sengar. Patience. So… when we found that body, I went a step ahead. I got his bite marks from the forensics and got them compared with er…the bite mark …. You got there…”

Reflexively she touched the mark through the t shirt cloth and instantly the flood gates opened. She swiped them away and hunched down.

“I am sorry Ms. Sengar. I didn’t intend to upset you. But you have to hear this. When I compared the… marks, it was a perfect match.”

Preeti gasped when she heard it. The entire scene flashed before her eyes and she shivered. One of the women in the room got her a cup of hot tea from the dispenser. She took a few sips and tried to calm her racing heart. She only wanted Gautam right now. To hold her and assure her everything was going to be just fine. But somehow she felt her control slipping away and she was barely hanging there by a fragile thread of hope.

A minute later she composed herself and looked at Tanveer Raisingh.  He spoke with a soft authority. “Ms. Sengar in the last twelve years I have been working my ass off to find the culprit but our theory says he is some kind of a vigilante. I know he worked alone. We have the proof for the same. The people whom he had killed were the worst kind of thugs, rapists and paedophiles out on bail whom we couldn’t touch because we were bound buy the law. He in fact did a service to the society no doubt by getting rid of those low lives. But Preeti no one gave him a right to be some kind of a vigilante. The law doesn’t allow you to kill someone.”

She didn’t know how to react at all.

“Who…who killed my Brother and Sukhi uncle?” she asked her voice cracking

“We will know that only when we find that vigilante and that’s where you come into picture.” He spoke looking straight into her eyes.

Preeti looked away and asked. “How can I help you?”

“Ms. Sengar, I have a feeling you know the guy.”

Preeti hoped she didn’t give Gautam away. She struggled to keep her cool.

“Sir, I still don’t get it. How can I help?”

Tanveer Raisingh looked up at his subordinates and they all left the room.

“Ms. Sengar I want to share a story with you. Do listen carefully.”

She nodded.

“I grew up in Rewari which is pretty close to Alwar. There was this boy in my class who came out of nowhere in the 8^th grade. He was mysterious and kept to himself. He was brilliant in studies and also a super athlete simply a class apart. But his parents never came for the open house or any school function. He would just disappear after school. He never fraternised….”  Tanveer Raisingh stood up and walked to the window looking out. After a moment he came back but didn’t sit on his revolving chair. He was lost in thought.

“…And then Ms. Sengar, one day I broke the ice, I chipped through his exteriors and he started to speak with me. I liked him because we shared the same interests. We both loved adventure sports and constantly competed in athletics. Though he didn’t share anything personal and was well guarded I did catch a few glimpses here and there. He was brought up by a single parent and had a younger sister and brother. But they weren’t in the same school. Ours was a government school so I assumed they must have gone to a private school. We soon became fast friends. He even came home with me sometimes. After 10^th grade I shifted to Rangarh Alwar because of my father’s posting. The last I saw him was on the result day. He had scored well in 10^th boards.  He didn’t share his contacts ever but he had my landline. We didn’t have mobiles those days. He often called at least once a month. He spoke cautiously. But he didn’t reveal anything about himself. He knew I was getting into the force someday since my dad was also a policeman. We spoke of things which didn’t matter at all. It was as if he just wanted to hear someone talk to him. He came across as a loner. Then after a couple of years the frequency of the calls trickled to a bare minimum and finally stopped completely…. To date I don’t really know what he is up to.” Tanveer Raisingh sighed. He looked at Preeti and said. “…do you know what always struck me most about him?”

She shook her head.

“….Ms. Sengar, he couldn’t stand injustice at all. He would lose his temper at the drop of a hat. He stood up for the weak and trust me…I admired him for that. Really did…”

Preeti didn’t understand where this was leading to as he continued after a moment of stoic silence.

“… and another feature which is stuck in my memory was, he had the most expressive brown eyes…”

Preeti stared wide eyed at Tanveer Raisingh.

“I know what you must be thinking Ms. Sengar. I know about Mr. Vikram Singh that he is your future brother-in- law. My classmate’s name was Gautam Rathore…. Ring a bell?”

Preeti didn’t know how much Tanveer Raisingh knew. She had to choose her words carefully.

“Look Sir, I have told you all that I knew about the incident twelve years ago. I have to leave now because my folks will miss me and it will be difficult for me to explain things to them…”

“Okay Okay…Ms. Sengar. You may go now. But the offer stands. In case you ever want to share anything please call me. Here is the card.” 

She took the card and put it in her pockets and turned around.

“Ms .Sengar?” he called out and she turned again. “Ms. Sengar…if I were you…I would be careful around Gautam. He is a dangerous. I hope you know that by now…”

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 14

“Preeti…wake up dear… Preeti…”

Someone was shaking her from a delightful sleep. Oh God why can’t they let a girl enjoy her beauty sleep?

She opened an eye and saw Gautam hovering over her with a frown on his forehead his eyes narrowed. “Wh…whaaat?” she drawled in her early morning voice. She had slept like a log after over three days and what was the time?  She looked around and sat up on the bed. It was then she saw her shredded top lying on the floor and the earlier nights events flashed before her eyes. She held her palm to her mouth and with eyes wide looked at him. He was standing in only his boxers and hands on his hips.

“Um… What is the time?” She purred.

“Its 5AM… You have to go to the adjoining bedroom. I have got it ready. Kept some clothes for you as well….”

She rubbed her hand over her face all confused. “What…what are you saying?”

“Peeti… you can’t be seen in this room…in MY room. Got it?” he spoke as if annoyed.

“Why? Why… are you ashamed of me? Or are you scared that Rewa didi will see that you are two timing her?” She stood clenching the bed sheet around her.

“Cut the crap Preeti and do as you are told.”

“No…I won’t… I refuse to be treated like a doormat. You have been doing just that right from Mumbai…”

“..Shut up Preeti and go to the other room. I have to wake up Rewa as well before the housekeeper comes in at 6.30AM.”

Tears welled up as she tried to control her anger. “I will not go anywhere from here unless you answer my question” She stood firm

“What is it Preeti?” He spoke clenching his teeth.

“Why?” She asked softly.

“What?” He looked at her confusion written on his face.

“Stop acting Gautam or Vikram or whatever your name is…I am tired of this charade. I just want to know why you… did what you did. Why did you seduce me last evening when … you’re engaged to Rewa didi…?”

“…Haa look who is talking… Was it one-sided? You were in it too isn’t it? So stop playing the victim card and get out of this room…” He looked away his jaw twitching like it did when he was angry.

Preeti was stunned to hear his words. She wiped away her tears and holding the sheet close ran out of the room. She went to the adjoining bedroom where she saw a pair of jeans and a short kurta with matching pair of inner garments laid on the bed. She ran to the attached bathroom and showered trying to scrub away his touch…his feel on her. But what would she do to erase him from her mind and soul?

She was finding it difficult to stop the tears even after half an hour of showering and lying on the bed fully clothed. The memories from Mumbai kept creeping in so did the ones from twelve years ago. But instead of the actual incident she was only remembering him saving her, probably as her coulnsellor had once said that she had to compartmentalise the memories. Separate the good from the bad. Face both and retain the good ones. It was always difficult for her. But he had healed her in few days. She breathed in deeply and decided to leave for Mumbai immediately within the next three or four days. Maasa was completing 94 years in a couple of days and Yash had mentioned a small family party in her honour. She decided to stay till then and then leave. She sat up immediately and started looking for her phone. Oh God it was in the drawing room downstairs. How could she be so careless? What if Rewa Didi saw it? Of course it was locked. But she had taken a pic of them lying together once without his knowledge and it was her background pic on the phone. She didn’t care about what would happen to Gautam or herself but was worried about Rewa didi…how would she react? Preeti was bogged down by guilt. How could she sleep with Gautam knowing that he now belonged to her sister? She rushed downstairs and luckily her phone was on the centre table. Rewa was still asleep. She picked up the purse and turned to rush back to the room when she collided with a wall of muscle. She was about to fall when he held her arms and pulled her towards him.

“Watch where you go Preeti… I won’t be there to save your hide every time…” His baritone vibrated through her body. She pushed him and he released her. She ran to the room and locked herself in. She then logged in to the airline website and booked her return ticket. She even booked a car to take her to Jaipur Airport. She sighed as she shut the phone and kept it in the purse. She knew life would never be the same back in Mumbai but she couldn’t stay here anymore…

Rewa woke up at 8AM with a huge hangover and Preeti got her to drink lemon water. She sat clutching her head.

Oh..Preeti…my head is splitting…as if someone’s hitting the walls inside…”

Gautam walked in with a cool wet cloth and offered it to Rewa. She smiled coyly as she took it and held it to her face. Preeti was annoyed at the gesture and Rewa’s reaction. Wait…was she jealous…NO ABSOLUTELY NOT…

“Didi, why did you drink so much when you have barely had a drink in your life before?”

Rewa removed the cloth from her face and had a dreamy look… “its…its just that…” She looked at GAutam. “…I was super happy yesterday… Vikramji…” She held his hand in her palms. “…Thank you so much for a lovely time…”

Preeti saw the exchange of communication between them. Something unsaid passed between them. She couldn’t take it any longer. Blinking back tears she said, “Didi we have to leave now. We have to go home. Bapu and Tayaji will be annoyed…”

“…Preeti I don’t care about them anymore…I am happy that’s all matters now…” Rewa declared.

Soon they had a quick breakfast of bread and eggs prepared by the caretaker and left in the car that arrived for them. It was the same one which had brought them here. As soon as they reached home, Preeti got busy with office work she was remotely managing. She thanked her stars for the job…it kept her sane in such circumstances. Before she knew it was evening. She had only taken a break once for lunch which was a private affair with the ladies. Rewa as usual didn’t make it and was sleeping.

Dinner was simple Kadhi chaval as the men were having a business meeting with a client and were to dine outside. Preeti was glad because she was in no mood for etiquettes.  She excused herself and retired to her room. Just two more days here and she would be back to Mumbai, back to her life… She would never come back to Alwar… she didn’t know if her heart could handle it.

As she sat on her bed preparing to sleep, her phone buzzed. It was an unknown landline number. Who would be calling her at this hour?  The clock on her table indicated 10.30PM. Frowning, she answered the phone.

“Hello?”

“Ms. Sengar? Preeti Sengar?” the rough voice on the other end spoke.

“Um…yes. Who is this?”

“Ms. Preeti, if you remember, about twelve years ago, following the incident…er… we had come over to your house for investigation. I was one of the inspectors present. Tanveer Raisingh… ring a bell?”

She did remember the young enthusiastic inspector. He had a kind face. She had wanted to confide in him and tell him everything at that time but was confused herself and emotionally traumatised as well.

“..Um yes…I remember you… why…why are you calling me?”

“Ms Preeti, I was told you are back to Bhivadi. I would like to meet you…”

“Um… Meet me? But why?”

“Ms Preeti, I can’t tell you over phone. Come over to RA tech park which is just down your lane.  Be there by 8AM tomorrow. Show everyone that you are going jogging. No one…I repeat…NO ONE should know that you are coming to meet us. Check into 4^th floor office number 410. You will be allowed to walk-in…”

“…Wait…why should I come over? What is happening?” Preeti cried out.

“Don’t you want to know what happened twelve years ago? Don’t you want closure?”

“Yes I do… but…”

“…Then just come over. Tomorrow morning 8AM.” And he hung up.

Preeti stared at her phone heart thumping loudly. It was as if she was transported back by twelve years. The flickers of fear pushed to her subconscious was rearing its head up again. But if this is what it took to get her closure then so it be. She had to move on in life…she had to close that chapter permanently this time.

She shut the lights and went off to sleep.

She had barely slipped into light slumber after lots of twisting and turning when she was woken by a noise. She was disoriented as she sat up. She looked around suddenly sacred. She knew there was someone in her bedroom and she didn’t have to second guess who it was. Her breathing calmed. The shadow moved across the room towards her bed. She folded her legs at the knees and hugged them close to her body. Gautam stood before her hands on his hips and dressed in complete black. The security for their home was nothing like in the old times. Business was hit hard and even when she had lived here the security was reduced to half. Today there were only 2 guards. Anyone could enter through the backside. All he had to do was just jump the compound wall and crouch though the overgrowth. There were no cameras either. What was her family thinking? As she was lost in thought he moved towards her. She held herself tightly and looked away blinking tears.

“Why…why are you here? At…at this time…” she spoke in a breathy voice. Not that anyone would be awake but maasa sometimes didn’t sleep at nights and her room was right below Preeti’s. Even at this age her hearing was good. Nonetheless, Preeti was cautious.

He sat next to her on the bed and she shifted to give him place. He straightened his legs straight up on the bed and rested his head behind on the cot’s headboard.

Preeti waited for a while and asked again. “Why are you here at this hour?”

“I couldn’t sleep.” He replied tersely with a sigh.

“You have come to the wrong room Gautam… Rewa didi’s room is at the other end.” She said every word weighing heavily on her heart. She was finding it very difficult to control her tears.

“I am in the right room.” He said softly and took her hand in his rubbing his thumb over her palm.

She tried to snatch her hand away but he held it tightly. She could hold it no longer and started to sob. He pulled her towards him and without a word she went into his arms as they closed over her. He pushed her gradually on the bed and lay next to her still holding her towards him. They lay facing each other her head dug in his chest and her hand clutching his back as if her life depended on it. He kissed her head and rubbed her back softly.  Sniffling she looked up towards his eyes.
“Why…did you do this Gautam? Rewa didi? of all the people in this world?” she couldn’t wait to ask.

“Would it have mattered if it was anyone else?” he asked back

“I am not a fool Gutam. I have barely known you for a few days but I actually KNOW you for the last twelve years. I know whenever you are around. I feel the connection between us. I can’t explain it, but I do….” She got her hand between them and felt his chest. She felt his heart beating wildly as they lay in the dark. “… I have always felt you around me watching over me, protecting me…both here and in Mumbai. I have known whenever you were not around as well… I don’t know how you managed to keep an eye on me, know about me in spite of being so busy….I…I didn’t know when I fell in love with you…” she felt his stiffen and held his t shirt in her grip. “…I was in love with you even before I actually met you that day in the elevator… I could give myself to you only because I trusted you…I still do. I know you haven’t committed anything to me… but Gautam… I can’t stand this… I can’t imagine you with Rewa didi. I am going back to Mumbai day after tomorrow. And I don’t think we should meet henceforth….”

“…YOU are NOT GOING BACK SO SOON…” he growled into her ears.

Preeti had enough. She pushed him but as always he was too strong for her. He put his leg over hers and held her close. In spite of being in her senses to judge right from wrong she melted into his embrace.  His musky odour was killing her. She tipped her head again and he leaned down claiming her lips. She slipped her hands inside his t shirt and raised them up exploring his chest. She found his nipples and pinched them. He groaned in her mouth, a deep guttural sound that shook her insides.  His erection was threatening to burst out of his pants. He suddenly separated from her and took off his clothes. She removed her gown. She hadn’t worn anything beneath the silky gown. She saw his eyes widening in the little light from a lawn lamp. The very next moment he was on her pinning her to the soft bed and took her lips again. Though they just had been together the previous night, she felt everything was new. This time it was as if he was unleashing raw energy, he was losing control. She was losing it too…she always did when he was around. She jerked up her back when he thrust inside her without warning. He was kissing her face, forehead, ears… she felt his warm breath as he thrust in and out. The pace increased and he fondled her waiting tits before she burst into a million pieces. He followed soon after and collapsed on her body. He lay besides her pulling her towards him hugging her and giving tiny pecks on her head. He kept gripping her palm every now and then. What was troubling him? Why wouldn’t he talk to her? Should she tell him about her meeting with the local police tomorrow morning? The cacophony of thoughts ran overdrive but he finally spoke in her ears.

“Preeti sweetheart… I…I don’t deserve you…” He hugged her tightly her back touching his chest.  She was thrilled to hear an endearment from him for the first time. She wanted to turn to look at him but he didn’t let her. He buried his head in her hair and he clasped her hand in his tightly.

“…Gautam…” She spoke softly.

He suddenly released her and left the bed.  She instantly missed his warmth. Within the next minute he was all dressed and walked towards the large window his back towards her. She didn’t move. He gave her a last look before he climbed off her window and disappeared. Did she see emotion shining in his eyes as he looked at her? She wasn’t sure she did but something about him was totally different toady.  For the first time she felt he was vulnerable too….

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 13

Preeti entered the drawing room and sat on one of the many elegant couches. There were three sets of those arranged neatly in the spotlessly clean drawing room which opened into a veranda from one side. The adjacent wall housed a mini aquarium…really? If it was meant to spell bound her it was doing the job… The three-seater was so soft that she almost slept off in exhaustion. She was physically tired after the action she had some time back in the storeroom. Her insides quivered at the slight tremors of the orgasm that made its way from her memory. It was then she gasped with realisation…she didn’t have her panties on. She shifted on the couch holding her purse tight. She took in deep breaths to stop the onslaught of fresh tears.  She pinched her nose and tried to control her emotions. She was in such a mess…

She looked around the beautifully decorated room. The drawing room reeked of money but she found it sterile just like his house in Mumbai. No family pictures or nothing like a personal touch. All made up… a total ‘charade’…just like him?

She shuddered and looked down at her clasped hands. She took out her phone and Googled him. But there was no information…Absolutely NO information at all about him. Neither Gautam Rathore nor Vikram Singh. As if they didn’t exist at all. How can that happen in today’s age of internet? Unless of course he was lying… but why the pretence? What was he hiding? She felt throttled as she thought of the time spent with him and more than everything the blind trust she had on him. She had never felt more betrayed.

As she kept contemplating her next step she heard laughter and saw Rewa and Gautam walk down the stairs. Rewa was smiling coyly and her saree was out of place. She had worn a thin shoulder blouse… she had covered it well so Preeti hadn’t seen it on their way here. And now it was terribly… wrinkled. Preeti wanted to puke. What a monster he was… first had his way with her and then immediately with her sister? She couldn’t wait to get away from the maniac and his haunted house.

As she stood she saw Rewa was losing her footing. Oh God was she drunk? Rewa never drank but she barely knew her sister now. It was as if six years had metamorphosed her into this being she couldn’t recognise.

She shuffled to Preeti and held her hands. “Preee…ti… Um…I am…so…so…haa..aaappy.. Cant gggoo home like ththth…this… Baaapu will kkkiiilll mmmmee…” She giggled as if she had cracked a joke. “..Ple…ple…please stay back w..wwwith meee…” Saying she fell on her dropping them both on the couch behind. She was totally stoned. Gautam rushed to the couch and lifted Rewa and made her lie down on the adjoining couch which was bigger. He then removed her footwear and raising her head rested it on the throw pillow. He rushed to some room inside the hallway and got a blanket. He covered her and Rewa cuddled herself to sleep. Preeti was staring wide eyed at what was going on.

“You… you did this on purpose, didn’t you?” She looked at him accusingly.

He stared at her hands on his hips. Then gave a side smile and looked away shaking his head.

“I have informed your home that both of you are going to be here. They won’t worry. Just…freshen up and join me for dinner.”

Preeti was getting angrier by the minute. “I…I am not hungry.”

“Well the body needs fuel to run isn’t it? Especially after you burnt so many calories sometime back… should I remind you…?” He moved towards her.

She quickly shuffled backwards. “…Stay…stay away from me…”

He raised his hands as if in submission and said, “On one condition. Have dinner with me…. Please…”

His voice was so soft…exactly like the times she had heard it in his house in Mumbai. Oh…how she missed it.

 She nodded and followed him to the veranda adjoining the drawing room.  She stopped suddenly as she saw the sight before her. A table for two was decorated with scented candles. There was a tray of food kept besides it and a jug of some juice from which he was pouring some into two glasses. He got a glass for her and she took it. She realised she was parched. She finished the drink in three huge gulps.

“Aww… that’s what I like about you Preeti…. Absolutely no faking anything. So…pure.” He purred coming close to her.

“Was this… was this for…” she gestured to the table and back to Rewa sleeping inside.

“…for you Preeti…it’s all your favourite food. I even have sev puri… you love it right?” He said softly again with that deep baritone of his which got back the flood of memories she had to shut her eyes tightly to swim through them.

She opened her eyes as she felt him close to her. Their breaths mingled as he closed in to seal her lips with his. She tried resisting but was powerless…totally engulfed by her feelings for him. Before she knew he had taken her glass from her hands. Soon his arms were around her and she felt the helplessness of the surging tide within. He bent her head back across his arm and brought down his lips on hers. At first slowly and then demanding. The swift gradation of intensity made her cling to him. She held his t shirt as if it was the only thing which wouldn’t let her drown in her own passion and pulled him further towards her. She was giddy with the emotional roller coaster she had been through last couple of days and before she realised she was kissing him back with and equal fervour. He groaned and pulled away.  She frowned at the sudden break … but he held her hands and said, “Dinner’s getting cold… come on…”

She was a puppet in his hands as he pulled out the chair for her. He sat across and served her sev puri… it had softened a bit but she loved the taste. She felt so much better. Food always did that to her. That’s why she was a self-taught good cook. Next came Kadhi chaval… her comfort food…of course he knew it. He knew everything…

She didn’t know how hungry she was till she saw how much she had wiped out from the plate! She wiped her mouth and stood up to collect the dishes. He stopped her and took her hand in his. He pulled her towards him. Her unruly curls blew in the gentle breeze and he gently moved them behind her ears. His eyes were so intense and soft at the same time, she was reminded of the Gautam she had known in Mumbai.  Instantly tears sprang into her eyes and she blinked to keep them away. Still one stubborn drop made its way down her cheek. He held her face and kissed the drop away…his lips lingering on her cheek a moment longer. He moved towards her ear and she shut her eyes giving in to the sensations he evoked within her…every time a different one she didn’t even know existed. He suddenly straightened and lifted her rushing towards a bedroom on the first floor.

He kicked open a room and strode to a double bed and dropped her on it. She looked around… she only saw darkness and his lips descended upon her. She tried to speak and his mouth was over hers again. Suddenly she had a wild thrill such as she had never known; joy, fear, madness, excitement, surrender to arms that were too strong, lips too bruising, fate that had moved too fast. Everything else seemed inconsequential at that moment. He leaned into her rubbing her body with his…her crotch with his bulge… She was overwhelmed with the explosive sensations oozing from her pores. Before she knew he tore open her blouse and pulled her skirt in a jiffy. He resumed the kiss as he released her breasts from the confines of her cotton bra. She pulled at his t-shirt and in lightning speed he was off her… He got back without his clothes and as her eyes got accustomed to the dark she could see his silhouette crouch towards her like the panther he was. Her heart was thudding in her chest with want and anticipation. He moved between her legs and lifted one leg over his shoulder. She didn’t know what he was doing but the next moment he plunged himself into her wetness. She was so aroused that he easily slipped in and out of her. She held her tits and pinched her nipples. He rocked grunting and the sound of his balls hitting her ass cheeks as he stroked in and out of her soft core ignited the fire and soon exploded behind her eyes.  He paused momentarily feeling her spasms and then wound her legs around his hips. He held her hands above her head and he claimed her lips and continuing to ride her. The bed creaked with the intensity of their movements. She raised her hips matching each of his thrust and then suddenly she erupted again…she had no more control over her body. He started to spasm even before her shudders stopped growling his release. She held him tightly and screamed as yet another orgasm erupted rocking her body off the bed.

Preeti never knew climax could even be like this… of such intensity. She blushed as she lay limp in his arms. He was still holding her close their chests touching and legs intertwined within each other. He kissed her forehead as she inhaled his musky scent…another trait of his she had always loved… She smiled as she buried her face in the crook of his neck feeling his stubble on her cheek as she did. Within moments she was asleep…

She was woken up by a sense of rising arousal, somewhere in the night. As she was awake completely she realised she was on her back, her thighs spread and ….Oh God….he was down there lapping at her core. As if on autopilot her hands moved in the direction seeking his head. Her hips started to rise as the walls of her sex started to clench. But he held her down with his strong hand as he ate her up. He pinched her nub and that did it. She flew spasming around his tongue and then his fingers as he inserted them into her passage. He drove them in and out as her first orgasm gave way to the next. By the time she was done she was totally spent. She felt him move behind her to spoon her and the last whisper she heard before she fell into oblivion was, “I missed having my dessert at dinner…so enjoyed it now….”

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 12

Preeti woke up to the noise outside her room. She was initially disoriented but soon realised where she was. The previous evening came flooding back and now completely woke her up. She had a disturbed sleep last night thanks to the man with brown eyes who had stolen her heart and he was now Rewa didi’s fiancé? What the hell? The only man she ever trusted with her body, heart and soul and he just trampled over her? Like she was nothing more than a doormat? Tears fell from her swollen eyes. She jerked them away. She wouldn’t cry over an asshole…a …a douche-bag… But instead of hating him, she was hurting…just plain hurting. She clutched her chest as the pain was getting too much to bear. She closed her eyes as if it would remove her memories of last evening. But instead she saw his face staring into her eyes as they came together…

She freshened up and changed into her lavender coloured salwaar kameez . Her hair was wet from the shower and she hadn’t carried her hair drier. So she let it fall into its natural curls and walked downstairs. The family had gathered around the dining table. Only Rewa didi was conspicuous by her absence. As usual everyone was silently eating. She saw the breakfast spread on the table. All her favourite Pyaaz Kachori, Bajra roti, lahsun chutney and sweetened curd… her mouth was watering. She hadn’t eaten since the horrible airport lounge lunch in Jaipur. Maasa gestured to her with her frail old hands and she saw a chair was vacant next to her. Preeti nodded to her father who only slightly nodded back. She then took the chair and served herself. The food was heaven as it melted in her mouth bursting with the varied spices. This was definitely prepared by Budia Kaki…God bless her. How she missed the food all these years when she was away…

The breakfast time was pretty stress free as maasa asked her about her life in Mumbai and she gave subtle hints about her work. Most of it was true. She didn’t have a social life as such in Mumbai. Yash asked her about her work and she gave him tit bits which he heard with interest. Her father and uncle finished their breakfast and Yash too left a few minutes after. Once maasa was done Sita came to the dining table and wheeled her away to her room.

Her mother and tayiji commented about her becoming too thin and hair quality not so good after she had left Alwar. She couldn’t wait before she asked them, “Where is Rewa didi?”

Her tayiji shrugged and said, “She is in her room on the phone with Vikram. Ever since he has been here they have been chatting so much. God knows what they discuss so much. But good in a way…” She sighed as she continued. “…First the girl was not ready to get married. Imagine turning down such a good alliance… who would have married her when she is almost 30? By God’s grace Vikram came along… One meet and she was ready. Thank Mataji…” She joined her hands in a little prayer. Her mother too nodded and joined her hands.

Preeti couldn’t make out what was happening. It was like she was in a nightmare and waiting to be woken up. But she sipped her tea which was very hot and it was a realisation that she was anything but dreaming. Just then Rewa came jumping down the stairs. She was dressed in a beautiful blue salwar kameez and her trademark style of draping the dupatta around her shoulders. It was then she realised Rewa didi was so beautiful. She had missed seeing this aspect of her. Was that the reason Gautam was attracted towards Rewa didi? But as far as she had known him, he wasn’t a shallow person. She couldn’t be such a bad judge of character, could she?

“Ma, I am going out with Vikram later today. We will get back late… um Preeti why don’t you come along. You have been away from Alwar for so long. You can catch up as well….” She said excitedly.

Preeti was in no mood to go but her tayiji said, “Yes Preeti. You should go. I am not comfortable sending her alone before marriage with a guy…even if he is her fiancé. Your Tayaji may not like it as well.” She touched Preeti’s arm on the table and looked at her with earnest eyes and she couldn’t refuse.

Rewa rushed back to her room and didn’t emerge till it was about 4PM and it was time for them to leave. Vikram had promised to send the vehicle to take them to his office and from there they were to leave for an undisclosed location. Preeti got some office work done but all the time she felt low and upset. She didn’t know how she could face him again after what had happened yesterday. But then, he hadn’t committed anything to her isn’t it? Theirs was meant to be a purely physical relationship. So in a way he hadn’t cheated her. But then why did he change his name? What was he doing in Bhivadi acquainting with her family? Why the masquerade?

She got ready to join Rewa at the round foyer of their Haweli. She was dressed in a long orange chiffon skirt and long white full sleeved silk blouse. Rewa lent her a pair of new leather chappals since her pumps were ruined in the flood back in Mumbai. She had put on minimal make up and met up with Rewa. Rewa seemed lost in thought. Seeing that there was no one around, she whispered, “what’s happening Rewa? Are you nuts or something?”

Rewa looked at her frowning, “why? What happened, Preeti?”

“All this engagement…till a couple of days back you were dead against the alliance claiming you loved Suyash…now what?”

“I am happy Preeti…just happy OK? Don’t talk about Suyash please. Vikramji…he makes me happy… that’s it.” Saying she looked away and before Preeti could ask her anything else the vehicle arrived to pick them up. The rest of the ride was in silence. The pot of confusion in Preeti’s mind overflowing all the way. Should she tell Rewa about Gautam and herself? About their so-called affair?

After about half an hour, they reached a bungalow surrounded by lush trees and bushes. It didn’t look like any office. The car took them straight through the drive way and as soon as the car stopped at the bungalow’s entrance Rewa opened the door on her side and rushed out.  Preeti was still blank and before she could react her side of the door was opened by the driver and he stood bending his head. She thanked him and got out and walked towards the house where Rewa had disappeared.  The driver drove away. Preeti stood all alone at the entrance of the house not knowing what to do next.  The entrance door was open so she stepped inside. 

It was a long passage which opened into a drawing room at the end. The passage lights were off. What was she doing here? It looked haunted with no one in sight. Where was Rewa didi? Suddenly as she took a step towards the drawing room a hand shut her mouth and pulled her inside a closet, shutting the door. Preeti was scared out of her wits and struggled in the dark. The light was flicked on and she before she heard him she knew it was him. “Shhh…it’s me. Don’t get scared …”

She shrugged his hands away adjusting her eyes to the extra bright light. He stood leaning towards her his hands on either side of her head. His face dangerously close…

“Aren’t you ashamed mister…whoever you are… ? My sister who happens to be your FIANCE is out there and you are…” She raised her hands to push him away but it was as if she was touching the wall of stone. He was in his black t shirt and black jeans.

He shook his head. “I had warned you against returning to Alwar. Why did you come Preeti?”

“Oh…warned me, is it? Just so that you can sleep around and fool everyone into marrying a docile lady, like my sister who would look the other way and ignore your indiscretion?” she started to raise her voice.

“Watch out what you speak Preeti…I haven’t cheated anyone…”

“…Cut the crap… I don’t want to talk to you anymore. It doesn’t… doesn’t make any difference to me what you do… Just let me go…” He voice cracked at the end of the sentence.

He palmed her cheek and rubbed his rough thumb on her cheekbone, she reflexively leaned against it, her tears now flowing freely. He leaned forward and captured her lips. The world faded away… everything faded into oblivion. What mattered was that he was here and he wanted her. She knew it from the bulge rubbing against her. She kissed him back with the same fervour as if her life depended on him… He held her hips and pulled her towards him grinding his erection to her core. She held his shoulders as he lifted her and carried her to the bedding lying in the corner of the closet. He dropped her and fell on her taking her lips again, his hands fondling her breasts through the blouse. He moved his hands down and swiftly raised his hands through her skirt and tore off her panties. She gasped but didn’t push him away. Instead she pulled his head closer to feel him. She heard him open the belt buckle and pull the zipper of his pant and in the next second felt his hard arousal at her apex. Before she could react to that he thrust inside her…with intensity she had never seen before. He rocked back and forth with a pace claiming her like a man possessed. She had never seen him lose control like he did now. That itself started the wave inside her belly. As he moved increasing his pace she rotated her hips and he grunted into her mouth and fondled her tits. She couldn’t take it any longer and screamed into his mouth as the room around her rocked and she saw stars. He followed her soon after screaming her name and pumping his release inside her womanhood.

They held each other tightly… He was still inside her, his head buried in her neck as he balance his body on his arms and she holding him around his shoulders and kissing them. As they slowly descended from the pleasure peak, realisation sunk in. She released her arms and legs and started to move away… She stood on wobbly legs and finding her torn panty used it to clean the liquid flowing between her legs. He gave her a fresh towel from the rack and she cleaned herself.

She shook her head and said “this…this is not right… We can’t do this again…”

“Preeti…”

“…No…don’t say anything…please… I can’t take all this anymore. I will leave for Mumbai as soon as possible. I…I am cutting all my ties with you…” Tears streamed down her cheeks and she raised her palm to stop him as he started towards her. “… You should go and find Rewa didi. I am … I will go home… book a cab…”

“… you aren’t going to find a cab here Preeti… please wait for dinner…” He said in a neutral tone.

Preeti looked at him as if he had grown two horns. “Are you… crazy? How can you be so cool about… all this? I am going….”

She turned around to reach the closet door when he pulled her back towards his chest and held her tightly. She struggled for a moment before giving up. She hunched resigned to her feelings. She loved it in his arms…  He kissed her on the back of her head and her neck, then moving towards her ears whispered in a voice that sent shivers in her body which was still shaking from what they shared earlier. “Don’t you dare leave like this… I had warned you not to come here. But now that you have, you can’t just leave…”

Her temper rose at his audacity. She struggled to free herself from his hold which she loved just moments earlier.

“Don’t fight me dear…” He continued in her ears tightening his hold. “… I have missed you like hell. Missed this warm softness… I want to claim you all over again…”

She was sobbing as she said, “…In your dreams asshole… I hate the very sight of you… Just…let…me… GO…”

He released her with a chuckle and she rushed towards the door, opening it and straightening her clothes. What if Rewa saw her like that? She picked up her purse which she had dropped when he had pulled her inside the closet and took out her little vanity pack.  She went to the nearest washroom and locked herself in. She took a moment to compose herself. She touched up on her make-up and attempted to straighten her unruly hair. She hoped her clothes weren’t creased beyond repair…  She then walked towards the drawing room.  She didn’t wait to check if he had left the closet as well. 

She had made her decision. She was leaving for Mumbai at the earliest and she wouldn’t return for the wedding as well. As she walked towards the drawing room she heard something breaking and realised it was her heart shattering into tiny zillion pieces. She only hoped she had the courage to pick up the pieces…

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 11

‘…You shouldn’t go back to Alwar…’

Gautam’s words kept ringing in her ears as she waited in the airport lounge. It was spilling over with people. Luckily some of the stores were open, like this café from where she purchased a cup of coffee. As she sipped she looked around. She saw little kids running around full of energy. Their harried moms were trying to catch up with few winks as well as keeping an eye on them. She smiled to see some of their antics. She would never know how it felt like travelling with family because her father and uncle never took them out anywhere. Of course they visited their kuldevi temple twice a year as a family but that didn’t count, did it? She and Rewa didi had to wear their traditional attire and little jewellery. Maasa would helm the procedures and their pandit would conduct the pooja. For many years they had the tradition of sponsoring a lunch for the people in the village where the temple stood. But a couple of years before she left Alwar, the tradition had stopped. She knew it was because of the money.

Preeti sighed as she took in a sip of the now warm coffee. How would Gautam react when he would know she went to Alwar? He would be furious for sure. Did she do the right thing by not informing him? Why should it matter anyway? He ran… GODDAMN RAN away from facing her… facing the situation at hand. What was he, a 5 year old? He was elusive about answering any of her questions. Not that she had asked. She now had no obligation to inform him about her whereabouts all the time if he didn’t give her a valid reason for his behaviour.

But why did the fact leave a bitter taste in her mouth and a sinking feeling in her heart? Was it because she was in love with him?

She didn’t know when she drifted off to sleep. She jolted awake when the announcements of flights started. The runway had started to clear thank God, for the receding rain. By the time her flight was announced it was 12PM! Her anxiety was rising by every passing minute. She switched on her phone twice but there was no reply from Rewa didi. She hadn’t even read the text. She tried calling but Rewa wasn’t answering. She switched off her phone as she boarded her flight half an hour later and by the time she landed in Jaipur it was almost 3PM and her phone was dead. She took a prepaid cab from the airport and started towards Alwar. Her heart filled with anticipation of what was to come.

Would her family welcome the revolting daughter back? Or would they be cold. Would she be successful in stopping Rewa’s impending engagement? She only hoped she wouldn’t open a new Pandora’s box.

The distance to her home in Alwar was to take about four hours but the traffic snarl delayed it and her car broke down once. What was it with break downs and her vehicles?

As her vehicle strut towards Bhivadi her city, her home… she started to get the feeling of nostalgia. A lot had changed. Bhivadi was touted to be the next Gurgaon with the IT influx, converting into a concrete jungle. Her favourite nana nani park where Sukhi uncle would get them when they were kids, was no longer there. Instead there was some amphitheatre.  She had pulled down the window glass but instantly regretted the heat wave which hit her face. She was now used to the humid Mumbai whether and not the dry heat.

Soon they reached the outskirts of the town where her family home stood. It was just the same as she took in from a distance. It was touching 8PM and she hoped she wasn’t too late. The car passed the mud road to reach the gates of their estate. The guard were new and refused to let her in. She had kept her phone for charging in the vehicle. She called the house landline and spoke to Yash. He didn’t react at all and just instructed the guards to let her in. As the vehicle passed the driveway, she saw there were lights hanging on the well maintained bushes. As she reached the house entrance, she saw a long row of cars parked. People were starting to come out of the decorated entrance to the Haveli. Or were they going in? She couldn’t make out. Oh God was she late? She checked the time again. It was approaching 8.30PM.

She had to be careful not to intrude and suddenly shock her family in front of the guests. She was in her trousers and top which she had changed into in Mumbai airport since her salwar kameez were drenched. Her unruly mop of curls was blowing around her head. Her father hated it when she didn’t oil and tie up her hair neatly. She couldn’t enter the house through the main entrance. She decided to take the back door. It was strictly meant for the servants at home when the house boasted of at least a dozen of them at one time. But she now knew there were only two of them now. Budia kaki their old cook and Sukhi’s widow Sita. They were childless so Sita aunty came to stay with them after the incident which killed Sukhi. Her family was reeling under guilt about his death and readily agreed to have her at home. She at times doubted the true reason for her father’s insistence for having Sita at home. The girls in the Sengar household were forbidden from emerging out of their rooms after 10PM. One day a year before she had left home, she had been parched with disturbed sleep and had walked into the kitchen late into the night only to find her father and Sita in a tight embrace. She had quickly hidden in the shadows. She knew her mother was never the same after Rohit’s death and her father… well he had wanted to satisfy his physical cravings. To her horror she hadn’t minded one bit. Probably Sita was the reason her father had recovered from the grief faster. Also he took good care of her mother. So she was ok. She wondered, as she walked towards the backdoor navigating through the undergrowth, if they still shared physical intimacy. She stumbled as it was dark and there was no light bulb in sight. She just hoped she wouldn’t step on snakes… As she reached the backdoor and tried the knob it turned easily. Looked like Budhia Kaki had indeed grown older. She had forgotten to lock the back door. But good for her she thought as she entered the house dragging her suitcase. There was a chaos of sounds. She was surprised at Yash’s reaction. As if he was expecting her. Did Rewa tell him? In that case the others would know too. She had to quickly go to her room and get dressed and join the event. She didn’t know what she would do today but she had to be there for Rewa. She was bone tired and struggled with her bag as she climbed the stairs. The house was of old architecture and had an entertaining hall adjoining the drawing room. The engagement must be held there. Huffing and panting she reached her room.

A wave of nostalgia hit her hard as she saw her room. It was exactly like the way it was when she had left.  Only the walls were painted in light blue otherwise her double bed, set of cupboards and study table were untouched. In fact there was fresh linen spread on her bed which indicated the family knew she was arriving. In spite of everything a smile touched her lips. She was home.

In the next fifteen minutes she had freshened up and worn a sequined silk salwar kameez, put minimal make up and rushed downstairs.

There were very few people in the hall. In fact people had started to leave. Oh God …was the engagement over? It was well past 8PM…Of course they wouldn’t have waited for her. But… Rewa? She was worried. She rushed through the throng of people. She saw her parents and her eyes filled. Her mother saw her and instantly rushed towards her engulfing her in a teary hug. Preeti couldn’t control her tears at seeing her frail mother. She had lost weight and had the perennial dark circles beneath her eyes. Her mother held her by her arms and then holding her face brought her head down to kiss her forehead. Her mother was a short but beautiful woman in her prime days but stressful life in the Sengar household under a domineering husband and then Rohit’s demise had changed her. She was never attached to her mother but seeing her like this made her very emotional. She hugged her Tayiji and maasa who could barely walk even with help and was confined to the wheelchair. They seemed happy. Her father and uncle grunted their hellos but she saw her father’s eyes were moist. Did he miss her? She would never know as he never even spoke general stuff leave alone emotions. Yash was indifferent. She didn’t blame him. His young uninterested shoulders were overburdened with family responsibilities. Her mother introduced her to the groom’s family consisting of his mother and sister and her husband. The mother gave her a once over and looked disinterested. The sister was beautiful and smiled, nodding in acknowledgement and she liked her instantly.

But Rewa wasn’t around. “Where is Rewa didi?”, she asked her mother.

“She is showing Vikram around the property.” Her mother said softly. “Preeti, beta…come have something. You must be hungry…” Her mother looked at maasa and her father. She felt them nod as her mother dragged her away to the dining hall. There was so much food kept on the table she drooled. But at the same time she was again worried about Rewa.

“Ma, why did you all force Rewa didi?” She asked her mother. He mother’s face fell. She looked around as if someone may overhear and came close to her. “Beta, you have come after so many years. Don’t stir up anything now…”

“Ma… but Rewa didi loves Suyash. Why are you all ruining three lives?” She couldn’t hide the contempt in her voice.

“..Shhh… talk in a low voice. Your father and uncle might hear. This was a business match dear. Sengar Diamonds was sinking…. Only this alliance could save it… so… you have to understand dear…” He mother sighed and looked away.

“Ma… this is not done OK?…”

Her mother gave her a glare. “You don’t get to talk on these matters after staying away for so long. I know you are going to go back as soon as possible. So don’t interfere in the family matters here.” He mother swiftly walked away.

Her appetite was now dead. She had to find Rewa and Vikram and confront them both. She may have to face her father’s ire but she would leave the place. But at this moment Rewa didi was more important. She wouldn’t be sacrificed for the family.

Preeti slipped out of the dining room and jogged towards the veranda. Rewa had once told her the potted plants had all dried up due to the lack of upkeep. But today they were all in full bloom. The front lawn was neatly moved and the bushes were trimmed. The show-off made her nauseous. She was barely here for an hour and she wanted to run away… again. She missed Gautam terribly. He would know how to deal with the situation for sure. But then he wouldn’t have allowed her to come here at all.  She was lost in her thoughts when she heard laughter coming from a distance. Was that Rewa didi? But why was she laughing?

She rushed towards the source of the sound. She turned towards the pillars housing the canopy of creepers her favourite spot to hide when they played as kids.

She walked slowly as the sound of laughter increased. It was Rewa for sure. Who was she with? As Preeti neared the dark corner, she called out, “Rewa didi? Are you Alright?”

Rewa and Vikram were standing in the dark corner with their back towards her. On hearing her voice Rewa turned around and swiftly walked towards her.

“Preeti dear… So nice to see you.” She had tears as she hugged her. Preeti hugged her back and looked at her holding her by the shoulders.

“Didi, you look beautiful… but … but what is all this?  What will happen now?” She asked panic in her voice.

“Don’t worry Preeti, my fiancé will take care of everything…” Then looking towards Vikram’s silhouette she asked, “…won’t you Vikramji?”

The man in question came out of the shadows. All blood drained out of her face as she saw Gautam standing there dressed in a beautiful black and white sherwani and shooting daggers at her.

Preeti stood stunned into silence watching him with her eyes wide open.

Someone called Rewa and she turned to Preeti. “Look Preeti we will catch up later ok? Maasa needs me to meet someone. Meanwhile why don’t you show Vikram ji around?”

Before Preeti could fathom her words Rewa rushed towards the main hall.

“So…” Preeti said through clenched teeth. “…this is why you didn’t want me to come to Alwar… so that you can cheat my folks here?”

“Preeti… it’s not…” he started to say.

She held her hand up and raised her voice. “SHUT UP… SHUT THE HELL UP…. You Bastard…how dare you…” Before she could say anything else he strode forward and holding her hand dragged her into the shadow of the canopy.

She forced her hands away and slapped him hard.  He held his cheek and starred at her molten anger in his eyes.

She pushed him away and yelled. “How dare you use me? How could you…. My sister… of all the people…? How could you manipulate me…?” She pushed him again but this time he held her hands and pulled her towards his chest.  She struggled but couldn’t free herself. She tried to kick him in the shin but he butted her and dropped her on the grass below and the next moment he was sprawled on her holding her hands on top of her head on either side. She was crying and closed her eyes.

“Look at me Preeti…” He ordered softly.

She opened her eyes. They were both panting heavily. There was darkness all over and she could only see his eyes shining in the light of the lawn and felt his erection digging at her thighs. She wanted to throw up…

“Preeti… you have to trust me on this…”

She looked away.

“Preeti…do you… do you trust me?”

She stared back into his eyes and said, “I will trust a wolf but not you… you understand? Now just… let me go. I just hate the site of you… You Asshole just LET ME GO.” She creamed the last words and he let her hands free.

She quickly stood up and brushed her clothes. As she started to walk away he said behind her. “Life isn’t what you think it is Preeti. Everything around here is a charade…”

She just kept running till she reached her room. Locking the door she fell on her bed sobbing loudly into the pillow.

The only words ringing into her ears besides her bawling were ‘everything around here is a charade…”

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

Chapter 10

(Gautam’s POV)

‘I love you…’ her words kept ringing in his ears as he kept hitting the hanging punching bag in his private gym. He was drenched with sweat. He didn’t know how long he had been here. Preeti, of course didn’t have to know that he was here. The gym was in the basement of his home. He had rushed here after her declaration earlier in the night… actually he had run. Run away from the most beautiful thing in his fucking life. Run away from his only chance at permanence, from his only chance at redemption. No… he couldn’t sacrifice her as well. Anyone remotely connected to him was destined to get burnt. Preeti was so innocent, so trusting it got tears in his eyes. He felt human around her. But the truth remained, he was a beast. He had abhorred himself, his life… till she came along… actually re-entered. He just couldn’t help himself around her and he let the tsunami of emotions take him along… Now though it crushed him he had to pay the price. It was duty Vs love and he had no option but to choose the former.

 He still remembered the mission twelve years ago. It was by accident that he had stumbled upon the gang’s plan. He had tried his best to keep vigilance as expected of him but somehow he had missed this planning happening right under his nose. But as soon as realisation had hit him he had rushed to that alley. Her brother and that driver were already dead. So he had rushed inside obscuring himself to save the third passenger from the car. But what met his eye as he reached the room was something unexpected. It was a young girl, a teenager about to be violated by the monster. He couldn’t let it happen, not on his conscience. He had thrown off the monster that was hunched over her about to claim her. He had rained blows on him till he fell unconscious. The others came to overpower him but the idiots didn’t know whom they were against. They were no match for him.  His training was strictly to avoid personal involvement of any kind with the victim. But this was his first rescue operation that too unsanctioned by his mentor/boss. He would want his hide but when they got to know he had save the young girl, they would forgive him… wouldn’t they. He had hoped so.

He had thought the monster would abide by his warning and go away. But it didn’t happen. The monster reached the hospital where she was admitted to finish her off. Her ridiculous family had left her alone in the care of the hospital staff. Fortunately he had arrived on time and completed the job. The monster wouldn’t trouble anyone now. The body even if they found it would be unrecognisable. He was answerable to his mentor but he knew he would understand. The girl was safe now but he had to kill unwillingly this time… He was a trained operative and for last six years had been following orders to the T. But this time the lines were blurred.  He was not up against any social predator. The monster was a known entity… hell they had grown up together, was of the same age. Both had striking similarities in built but two major differences. He followed rules whereas the monster didn’t. He had brown eyes whereas the bastard had blue. He had used those blue orbs to gain trust of unsuspecting prey many a times. He always got away with it. But sadly this time Gautam had to do the job of eliminating someone who had once been his friend. Someone, who had trusted him to have his back. That monster was his mentor’s son…No one else knew about the disposed unrecognizable body in the heart of the jungle.

His mentor was the only one who knew what had happened to his son. Their relationship had strained though the mentor didn’t try to show. He was asked to subtly leave the organisation. After spending ten years of his life he was asked to just pack and leave. That his mentor trusted him not to reveal anything about their organisation itself was something important. He would take all their secrets to his grave. He later heard that they had shut shop.

 But he had his mountain of savings and had spent the next couple of months visiting the girl in the hospital. He had helped her heal at least from the physical injuries but the mental scars would remain… who better than him to understand that. He had kept a watch on her. He had found out who had ordered the hit on the car that day. She was just collateral damage. He had also heard the father in the hospital that first day. She had no one to turn to. The archaic household…oh he knew enough about those kinds, was pathetic for her state of mind. He didn’t know why he did what he did. But till she was in Alwar he only had two tasks cut out for him. First, to watch over her and second, developing his business. For the later he had taken over partners. Money could do anything. But for the first job, he did it on his own. He could have appointed someone else but he couldn’t tolerate anyone ogling at her. Preeti had blossomed into a beautiful young woman before him and he had difficulty controlling his libido when she was around. Of course she never knew. She occasionally turned around and checked but she could never find him. Then she had left Alwar. He should have been relieved because that’s what he wanted wasn’t it? In fact he had seen to it that she got that job and later the house in a safe location. He should have been done by now…No more responsibility…

For the next four years he put his heart and soul into his expanding real estate and restoration business. His old contacts ‘helped’. He had opened up work avenues for a lot of people in and around Alwar. He even got a government grant for restoration of ruins which he had thought would hopefully help him achieve his goal someday. For his ‘mother’… His ‘mother’ Romila Devi, the lady who had single handily brought him up along with that monster and a younger sister. She was the mentor’s estranged wife but the only parent he knew. Though she never showed any maternal emotion, she was still better than his birth mother. At least she gave him a place in their life. She had always known about her biological son but had never questioned or doubted or blamed him. She had a sole aim in life. To acquire the Gagorn fort in the Jhalawar district of Rajasthan. He owed her that one. He had tried for years but couldn’t get through the red tape and the stringent conditions put down for acquiring the ruined piece of heritage.  She was an intelligent but an opportunist woman. She didn’t even blink when she had been told about her son’s death. He had done it himself and cried holding her hands. But she had just looked with her lifeless eyes and said, “Just get me Gagorn.” He had been at it for the last twelve years…

One fine day four years after Preeti had left Alwar he craved to see her. He knew she was doing well for herself and was proud of her. But he longed to have a glimpse of her and so he landed in Mumbai on pretext of work. He saw her at work and couldn’t take his eyes off. Her pictures did no justice to her beauty. She was very hardworking and kind-hearted as he saw her interacting with her subordinates. He was a goner right then. He purchased a house at a little distance away and established himself in Mumbai. He felt guilty for having to ignore his moral duties back home but the pull here was stronger.

He had a major shortcoming… his strong libido. He was insatiable. For years he had a few women whom he used, to relieve himself but they all knew what was on the cards and he treated them well. Often they had financial troubles from which he helped them out. He had stopped soliciting them after Preeti left Alwar. It was as if she had taken a piece of him away with her. He loved kink and experimenting with it. A couple of those women had agreed and he had tried the red room at his Alwar bungalow with them. But he realised he had built it with Preeti in mind and no one could hold a candle to her. Even in Mumbai, he had the red room installed to explore his fantasies but he had restricted himself to self-stimulation for relief. In fact most of the times, the room was unused. He couldn’t get himself to go in there without Preeti’s eyes flashing before his eyes and clenching his heart. He only wanted one person on earth and that was his doe eyed beauty. He knew it wasn’t right for him to lust after the unattainable but could he explain that to his heart?

And then his mother had called. Her dream for conquering the Gagorn fort was going to get fulfilled. He would do anything for that but her conditions for that chilled him to the core. He couldn’t refuse her. But before returning to Alwar he once had wanted to see Preeti. He didn’t know he could be emotional as well. It was pouring heavily when he had visited her work place that day.  His heart was galloping and he didn’t even realise he was crying till he felt moisture ion his cheeks. He couldn’t believe that he had it in him… he had never ever cried. Not when his birth parents had abandoned him at the tender age of four years, not when his was forcefully taken out of college at twenty one, not when the mentor flogged him to ‘improve’ during his training years, not when he had to kill the monster who happened to be his friend… But today the thought of moving away from Preeti was killing him inside. He had never spoken with her after the hospital scene twelve years ago and she didn’t even know him. As always he didn’t have a choice and he had to leave soon. But the stonehearted man in him had softened.

He had retreated to the elevator and when it was about to close Preeti had barged in. Was it destiny at play? The lights went off and she recognised him…

Today as he punched the bag over and over his knuckles getting swollen, he wanted to get rid of the emotional turmoil. These few days with Preeti were the best of his life. He didn’t deserve her at all but when she had held his hands and looked at him with her eyes full of trust, it was his undoing. Years of subdued feelings and cravings surfaced upwards and he went with the flow. When he saw her day before yesterday in the black dress in that hotel room he had lost it totally. He was 43 years old and a man with tremendous self-control. But these days it was like she held the strings of his heart and each moment spent with her were tightening the noose for him. He had to let her go before he reached a point of no return. He didn’t deserve her at all… His heart was shattering. The pieces scattered all over and he couldn’t collect them…

She didn’t know…his life was a charade. His life was a duality governed by the balance of light and darkness, with the capacity for both good and evil. How could he explain his life to her? Her soul wouldn’t withstand the truth of his life; the truth of her family…No he couldn’t destroy her. He loved her. Yes… he wiped his tears with the bruised fists and declared to the empty room. HE LOVED HER…

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.