Next morning, Nikki is woken up up with the ringing of the phone. When she picks it up, it was a frantic Muskaan at the other end of the line asking for Abhi. Just then Abhi walks out of the shower and Nikki hands the phone to him. Muskaan tells him that he is needed in the hospital as Mr. Khanna is hemorrhaging and needs immediate surgery. It cannot wait till 11 am and she has already informed Dr. Shashank who is on his way too. Abhi tells her he would be there soon and puts the phone down.
While he was getting ready, Nikki enquires about his injuries and if his head was still paining. He tells her his head was less painful and he was fine.
Seeing the worry on her face, he assures her he was completely alright.
"I am perfectly fit for another helping of dessert," he teases "I only wish we had the time for it. Till then, we'll make do with this." He brushes his lips over hers, keeping it lingering for a moment and then sweeps it away. Nikki who was clearly not expecting it, gasps in excitement. Winking at her, he pats her cheek and with a bye he strides out of the room.
Intoxicated with his kiss, Nikki was rooted to the spot for a good few moments. Shaking her head in delight, she smiles to herself. She then remembers dreaming about Abhi telling her he loved her and she telling him the same, unaware it wasn't a dream.
She then spent the rest of the morning answering frantic calls from her mother, aunt, Simran, Rohit, Sonam, all who heard about Abhi being hurt and worriedly calling to check on him. When they came to know Nikki was first attacked they were even more distressed, but Nikki manages to calm them telling them that Abhi will be talking to the police about it.
Abhi on the other hand was caught up in a flurry of activities starting from Mr. Khanna's emergency surgery and the fight for operation theatres with a couple of emergencies coming up at the same time.
It was only by mid-afternoon that he had some free time before he got on to the next job. Going to his cabin, he slumps down on to his chair and shuts his eyes hoping to catch a few moments of peace. Life was definitely getting hectic by the day. Then, remembering the surprise he planned for Nikki, he opens his eyes and calls up Riddhima. He tells her what he wanted Armaan and her to do for him and pleaded her to secrecy from Nikki and rest of the gang.
Riddhima is overjoyed with his plan. When she puts down the phone, she recollects Nikki's words. "I know he loves me but I am waiting for the day, my husband comes back to me, free from all anger and resentment."
"Tonight you will know how wholeheartedly your husband loves you Nikki!" Happy for her friend, a jubilant Riddhima does a waltz till she falls into the strong arms of her surprised husband just as he was entering their room.
Abhi then calls Nikki and tells her that the police were checking the premises of the hospital and wants to have a discussion with him in the evening, so he may be delayed.
"You seem to be making a habit of arriving home, just at the time of any party Abhi," an annoyed Nikki chides him.
"I know Nikki, but, you know it can't be helped," he tries to reason.
"Fine," Nikki relents grudgingly. "but please take care of yourself!" she pleads, concern deeply in her voice.
Abhi smiles. Her love and concern takes away all the tension and pressures from him.
Just as he finished the call, there was a knock on the door of his cabin and a stocky man in his thirities enters.
"Hey Rajesh," Abhi greets him. "I was waiting for you."
Rajesh Suri was a detective and Abhi grew to like him especially since he selflessly went out of his way to help Abhi find Nikki. Ever since he received a message from Rajesh this morning, telling him, he wanted to discuss something urgent with him and did not want to do it over the phone, Abhi has been under severe stress.
"Hey Doc, I am going out for a few days on a case and while rummaging my files, I found these," he hands a white folder to Abhi. "It has your wife's pictures and other important papers you gave me at that time. I thought I should return them to you. I am sure everything is fine now at your end."
Abhi shakes his head and smiles at him. "Yeah, good. Thanks. We are expecting our baby."
"Hey Congratulations !"
Abhi thanks him again.
"Well there is something I need to tell," there was grimness on Rajesh's face. "Yesterday I was at the tea stall just few metres away from this place. The vendor told me for past few weeks, couple of guys have been checking with people around about you and your wife."
Abhi was stunned by his revelation. He told Rajesh about them being attacked the previous day. Rajesh tells him that there could be something more to it. "Just think of it, there are so many doctors in Sanjeevani, why is it, only you and your wife being checked out? I think you should be very careful. Wish I could look into the matter for you, but I am out for a week. If you want when I get back, I can help you with it. Till then you be on the alert," he warns. Abhi nods his head and thanked him when he was leaving.
"Nikki!" his thoughts go to her. "Were those guys trying to attack her? The hairs on his body prickled uncomfortably. There was a sudden fierce awakening to protect her. He has to see no harm comes to Nikki and their baby.
When the police came to see him, Abhi told them what Rajesh revealed to him. The police told him not to worry. They would look into the matter. After a lot of assurance from the police, Abhi begins to relax having decided he would not leave Nikki alone.
When he reaches home, he is greeted by two glum faced people. Nikki and Sid were at the end of their tether waiting for him.
"Sorry Guys, the cops took longer than I had imagined." He apologises sheepishly.
"The party has already started," Nikki pouts
"I know, I know. Don't worry, I'll be ready in a jiffy," he tells apologetically. Nikki makes a face at him.
"Ok, I'm going in for a shower. Please pull out a shirt for me," he tells her.
Nikki gives him a dirty look.
"Please, Please," he implores blinking his eyes at a sulking Nikki. Then patting her cheek tenderly, he dashes inside.
When he enters the room, he finds his pink shirt was already on the clothes stand. An affectionate smile breaks on his face. "Thank you wifey! You're the best!"
Few minutes later he strides out of the bathroom wearing black trousers and a towel slung over his shoulder. One end of the towel was on his head as he was wiping his hair He sees Nikki sitting at the edge of the bed, twisting the ends of her dupatta in irritation.
Not wanting to make the mistake of looking at her, he walks towards the dresser. Nikki is surprised by his ignoring of her. 'Is something bothering him?' she wonders. 'Looks like he had a rough day at Sanjeevani."
Abhi moves the towel down on to his back and tries to wipe the little drops of water off it. Nikki goes up behind him and puts her hands on his, the touch of their finger tips sending electrifying sensations to their whole body.
Taking the the towel from him, Nikki wipes his back.. She was so tempted to run her hand all over his sturdy, muscular back.
Shaking the thoughts from her mind, she looks into the mirror and finds Abhi intensely watching her. She realizes she had stopped wiping his back. A flirty smile begins to play on his lips as if he sensed her thoughts. Averting his gaze, she proceeds to complete her task.
"Abhi?" she calls out softly
"Yes."
"Is everything alright at Sanjeevani?"
"Yeah."
"And are you okay? Your injuries?
"Yeah they are fine"
"Let me have a look at it, turn," she insists trying to turn him around.
"Nikki, believe me, its fine," Abhi tells her as he turns. "Aren't we getting late now?"
Ignoring his protest, Nikki begins checking his scars, "Good the scrapes are healing well. Hardly noticeable except for the one on your cheekbone. But that's not too bad either."
It was as if she was talking to herself because Abhi was finally making the mistake he had been trying to avoid the moment he got off the car and his eyes fell on her. The mistake of looking at her properly .
She was dressed in a red dress with light golden work on it, held by golden beaded sphagetti straps on the shoulder, a red dupatta with gold border lying against her throat and a matching plain red churidar.
She looked so fiery that Abhi was sure he was going to be burning right through the evening. In his mind, he was already thinking of cancelling his surprise for her tonight, even cancelling the dinner at Rohit's. To hell with everything! He was turning feverish with heat.
"Abhi where are you?"
"What?"
"Are you okay?"
"Yeah fine!"
"Then why are you so preoccupied?"
"Its You!" he wanted to blurt out. "N....No...... Nothing," he strutters instead.
"Ok tell me am I looking okay?" She looks at him eagerly
Abhi knew, she was aware she was looking good, but, she was looking for an acknowledgement from him . He tries to hide a smile.
"Yeah nice!" he tells her offhandedly, brushing past her as he walks towards the stand and picks up his shirt.
Nikki's face fell. "Only nice?" she wonders.
She knew she was looking more than just nice. She turns and looks into the mirror again. Her action makes Abhi want to laugh. With difficulty he manages to stifle his laughter.
Nikki wonders what was wrong. She knew Abhi loved to see her in this colour. Is it her hair? but then she has always left it loose like this. Her face ? Her stomach ?" She puts her hand on her belly.
Buttoning up his shirt, an amused Abhi comes up behind her and asks "Something wrong?"
"Haan?" Nikki comes out her musing "No, I was wondering if I should change"
"Why? What's wrong?
"I don't feel right about the dress."
She begins to walk past him. Holding her hand from behind, Abhi stops her. "Why do you want to break my heart?"
Turning sideways, she looks puzzled at him. "What do you mean?"
Abhi tugs her hand gently and pulls her into his arms.
"When you are looking so stunning, so gorgeous, so beautiful, why do you want to change and break my heart?" his voice carried a sensuality she found very irresistible.
"Then why did you say I looked only nice?" she asks him with a feeble sulk.
"I thought you'll be bored if I said the same things again and again, even if its true." He teases
Nikki drums her fists on his chest.
"You meanie!" she tells him hotly,
"Really? and what are you?"
"What do you mean?"
"You know exactly how stunningly gorgeous you are looking and still fishing for compliments eh?" there was teasing in his smile.
Nikki's cheeks turn red with embarrassment at the truth of his words.
"Yeah, but there is only one hitch!" she whispers
"And what is that?"
"My stomach looks as if it has a half watermelon stuck on it."
Abhi guffaws loudly doubling up with mirth. Nikki too joins him and for few moments the room was filled with their laughter.
Nikki is joyous to see Abhi laugh like this. She gapes in wonderment at him as it was such a rare sight for her. She had been noticing, for the past few days, he seemed to be much calmer and happier. Today, It was as if the dark clouds had completely evaporated from within him. There was only brightness on his face. Does this mean he has finally forgiven her? She desperately wanted to know.
"Abhi, have you forgiven me?" Unintended, her voice carries her desperate thoughts.
Abhi's mirth filled face tenses for a few seconds. He then looks at her and finds her looking earnestly at him. He wanted to tell her he loved her completely, from every beat of his heart and there was no place for any negative feelings anymore.
But now was not the right time, he'll do it when he surprises her tonight. Now he'll tease this imp a little more.
"Abhi?" she whispers, nudging him out of his musings.
"Without a punishment? Do you think its fair?" he asks her pretending hurt. "I want my pound of flesh!"
"You know Abhi this is the first time I, willingly, want to put myself through punishment. Do you know why?"
Abhi shrugs trying to figure out the answer. "Because sometime or the other, we all want to atone for our mistakes?"
"No!" Nikki shakes her head. "because YOU paid heavily for my mistake!'
Abhi feels his heart ripping apart as he looks at the stark honesty in her eyes.
"So tell me Abhi what is your pound of flesh?
Abhi slowly releases her from his hold. Hiding a smile he turns to the mirror and begins to brush his hair. "Let it go Nikki, You won't be able to do it!'
Nikki approaches him from behind and putting her arms around him, places her hands on his chest.
"Try me Abhi!" she prods.
"Sure?" he questions with the raise of his eyebrow.
"Yeah," Nikki nods, resting her chin on his shoulder.
He turns and bringing his face close to hers, looks deeply into her eyes.
"Hmmm, well lets see its always me making the first move. This time I want you to do it."
"What?"
"Seduce me!" he tells her tongue in cheek.
Nikki gasps, incredulity in her eyes. The mischief dancing in his eyes makes her cheeks turn rosy pink. Looking at her blushing profusely, Abhi grins widely.
It was then, Nikki realized, he had forgiven her completely. She didn't need him to tell it to her. There was no anger or resentment left in him at all. She can see it all in his eyes. Her own eyes begin to turn misty with happiness.
"Afraid? " Abhi teases her. Lifting his finger, he seductively plays it all over her face. "Today, after dinner, when we get back, I want to be seduced by my beautiful wife!" he drawls flirtatiously
"You forgot to add, five and a half months pregnant wife who......"
"feels she has a half watermelon stuck on her stomach." Abhi is filled with laughter as he completes it for her.
Nikki nods her head as she laughs with him.
"Hmmm........Let me tell you, You are one hell sexy for a pregnant lady!" his mesmerised eyes displaying the truth of his words
The colour deepens on Nikki's cheeks as his eyes continue to rove all over her.
"Abhi........how..........I.......I........." she strutters.
"Making excuses? Its okay Nikki, I don't think you can do it," pretending to be dejected, he turns back to the mirror, mischief lurking in his eyes. "I already told you before, Leave it!"
Nikki goes closer to him and watches him through the mirror.
"Dr. Abhimanyu Modi are you challenging me?" she asks in a husky voice.
"I am!" he holds her gaze unflinching, through the mirror.
Slipping her arms around him and going on tiptoes, she brushes her lips against his ear.
"Do you realize, even if I agree, you will have to wait the whole evening for it?" She teases impishily.
Abhi smiles at her pertness
"I am pretty confident it will be worth the wait," he tells her, his lips contorting lopsidedly as he smiles. "So, I will wait for tonight. Not now, not at the party, only when we get back."
"I don't think so Dr. Modi, before that, you'll be making the first move," she defies.
"Are you challenging me Dr. Ni--ki--ta?" he mocks, holding onto her fingers that were enticingly playing on his chest.
"I am!" she nods with challenging smile.
"Hmmmm............interesting! Playing a game with me eh ? You think I will not be able to resist you and will make the first move like always? Pretty conceited aren't We!"
"Na....Na....Naan.......... Not conceit. Just knowing my husband better," she chirps playfully.
"You forget something, dear wifey. I can be very firm when I want something and I want my pound of flesh." There was steel in his eyes and firmness on his face.
"Fine! Tonight, we will see who makes the first move!" Nikki challenges. "Deal?"
He pulls her in front of him and brings his face closer to hers. "Yeah we'll see who makes the first move. Deal!" he confirms with a magnetic smile, touching his forehead to hers.
There is a loud knock on the door and Sid bursts into the room.
"Bhai, Bhabhi! Whats taking you so long. We are already late."
Abhi rolls his eyes in annoyance.
"Remind me to get an electronic device for our room which will give access only to us." He tells her.
Nikki giggles.
"Come On Bhai, Hurry Up!" Sid prods him.
"May I know what's your hurry ?" Abhi scowls at him.
"Don't you know ? Someone is waiting for him!" Nikki tells Abhi, teasingly glancing at Sid.
Scratching his head, Sid blushes.
"Who?" hiding a smile, Abhi pretends he didn't know. He catches Sid by the collar. "Look Sid if you trouble Simran today, I won't spare you." He warns.
"Uffo, as it is, we are so late. Lets go!" Nikki manages to separate them.
She nudges Sid ahead.
Following him out, she suddenly tilts backwards, surprising her husband who was following her. His protective hands automatically go around her waist. Her back safely resting against his chest, she looks at him, her eyes twinkling with mischief
"You better concentrate on our Deal, hubby dear, because my whole concentration will, only be on you. Just wait and watch, you'll see who wins!" she winks at him.
"I'll be waiting patiently, dear wifey, because I know I am going to get my pound of flesh, today" He returns with a devilish smile.
PRECAP TO PART 34
Sometime later Nikki finds Abhi in a corner, leaning over a tall round table, chatting with someone. The moment the man moved away, Nikki goes near him. Slipping her hand into his arm, that was lying on the table, she leans against him and nuzzles her nose affectionately against his shoulder.
"How are you doing Hubby Dear?" she asks him
"All of a sudden, so much love for your husband?" he taunts, a half amused smile on his lips
"What to do he is so irresistible today!"
"Oh !" Abhi mouths. "You mean otherwise he isn't?" he questions with the raise of an eyebrow. Nikki lowers her eyes unable to meet his eyes. "You enticing siren, you think I can't see what you are upto?" he dares, a teasing smile forming at the corners of his lips
"Wh'What do you mean?"
"I mean I can see through your smart moves Wifey! All this extra lovey-doviness so openly in public, which you normally fight shy to do even when we are alone," His enjoyment of her playfulness is clearly seen in his eyes.
Nikki's cheeks begin to turn crimson red.
"As they say everything is fair in love and war!" she tells him sheepishily.
"Hmmm I know! Only when its tried on one's self, its difficult to buy that
Nikki lets out a coy laugh. Abhi smiles.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
CONNECTED IN LOVE - PART 32
Abhi studies the two goons in front of him. They seem to be in their twenties and inexperience clearly visible in them. "Get back," snarls the boy with the knife. With one deft movement, Abhi kicks his hand. The boy was unprepared for it. He staggers sideways and hits the wall, the knife falls from his hand. Abhi then throws a couple of blows on to the other goon till he too slumps against the wall.
Not giving them a chance to recover from his blows, Abhi holds them by their throats and questions them fiercely.
"Who are you ? What do you guys want ?"
Still disoriented, the hoodlums struggle to get away from Abhi's grip, but he proved too strong for the two of them put together.
Nikki and Muskaan notice someone coming up behind Abhi. It was too dark for them to see clearly. However, they noticed he had something like a bat in his hand.
"Abhi, watch out!" Nikki yells. But it was too late. Abhi is hit on the head. He felt as if the whole world was spinning wildly. He staggers back , his grip on the goons loosens. Taking advantage, the boys throw a few hard punches on his face. Nikki's heart begins to sink. She can hear Muskaan calling for for help, but her own voice betrays her.
Fearing they'll be caught, the goons throw the bag on Abhi's face and dash off. Groaning with pain he clutches his head and falls forward. Steeling himself, he struggles to stay on his feet. Putting pressure at the hit on his head, he turns, supporting his back with the wall. Through cloudy eyes he watches the hoodlums escaping.
Damn, he could do nothing about it. But wait! there were three of them! He remembered the blow came from behind. Where did the third one come from?" he wonders. His head was hurting, his whole face felt sore and bloody. He was finding it difficult to keep his eyes open.
Nikki and Muskaan have now reached him.
"Abhi.......Abhi.......are you okay," a frightened Nikki asks him "Oh My God!" she begins to panic seeing blood all over his face.
"I am fine," he tells her, grimacing with pain. "Is Premchand around? Call him, lets go home."
"Whaaat?? But, Abhi you are bleeding," Nikki was appalled at his words. "We are at the hospital, lets get you treated."
"I am fine Nikki," Abhi assures her, though his face continues to contort with pain. But, he was able to see much clearer now. Even though, his head was hurting, he knew it wasn't very serious. "Just lets get out from here."
"Dr. Modi, Nikki is right. You should get treated'.."
"Dr. Muskaan, for god's sake, you both do as I say," Abhi growls impatiently. "Don't forget we have patients coming and leaving. I don't want any kind of panic or scene in the hospital right now. Believe me, I am fine. Lets just go home."
On their way out, Abhi stops and tells the security to be on alert. He asks them to check the area around the basketball if they find anything.
Sitting in the rear seat of the car next to Abhi, Nikki was feeling nauseated seeing the blood on Abhi's face and the graze on his knuckle. The blood was thickening at the corner of his forehead. Her heart begins to ache. Gently, she wipes the trickle of blood at the end of his mouth with her finger.
Abhi was touched by her gesture. "Does your head hurt?" she asks him
"yeah a bit," he tells her his hand touching the back of his head. "I think I'll need a pain killer later."
"You don't think it's a concussion? "
"No," he confirms.
"Did you recognize those guys?" asks Muskaan, who was sitting in the front seat next to the driver.
"No, I think they were thieves," Abhi replies. He was upset they had escaped. It was stressing him that such elements could enter the hospital premises. He knew it couldn't be helped if they entered as patients, but they definitely need to look into the matter seriously. Perhaps step up the security.
"I think I should drop you home and go back and talk to the security," he voiced his intention. "We definitely need to do something about it."
"Whaat?" the two girls were taken aback by his words.
"Abhi have you gone mad?" Nikki puffs angrily at him. "You are hurt and you want to go back in this condition?
"I am fine Nikki," he tells her. "just a few bruises"
"A few bruises! Isn't that enough? or are you unhappy your bones are not broken?" Nikki was livid.
"Nikki calm down! I was only thinking........."
"Don't tell me anything," she snaps "Do what you want! In any case you'll never do anything I say!" She turns her face towards the window trying to hide the tears threatening to fall from her eys.
"Few Bruises!" her heart echoes his words. Those few bruises were killing her here and he is so casual about it!
"Nikki?" Abhi calls out nervously, knowing she is upset and not sure how to handle it. Gently he puts his hand over hers. An upset Nikki pulls her hand away in annoyance. Dejected, at her rejection, Abhi turns his face towards the other side and looks out of the window. There was an awkward silence in the car.
Reaching home, he excuses himself and heading straight for his room, he goes into the bathroom. Few minutes later, when he comes out of the bathroom, wearing a black sleeveless vest over slacks, he finds Nikki waiting for him with the medicine box in hand. She notices his face was now clean and his injuries much clearer now. A grazed skin above his temple and at the side of his cheekbone, a tiny cut on his lower lip, spoke of his tryst with the hoodlums.
"I am fine." He tells her nonchantly "I've cleaned the wound"
"I can see it, but, the one on your cheekbone is still bleeding. Also, you'll need an antibiotic ointment.
"I'll do it later," he tells her casually strolling towards the bed and bending to pick up his phone lying on it.
When he straightens up, he finds Nikki's eyes glowering at him.
Putting her hand on on his chest, she pushes him on to the bed.
"Just sit quietly," she tells him sternly. Abhi is speechless, his eyes are transfixed on her. "Shift in!" she orders him. Mechanically, he lifts his legs onto the bed and moves in, his eyes not leaving her, as she sits beside him.
Taking a gauge she applies pressure over the scrape on his cheekbone. Abhi grimaces. There is a momentary softening of her expression but then when he looks at her, her expression changes to anger again.
He knew she was upset with his suggestion of going back to Sanjeevani. "Good God! Going back to Sanjeevani? No Way! Looking at her face flushed with anger and the tautness in her body displaying an invisible placard reading 'Don't Mess with me', he has erased the thought completely from his memory. He'd rather be chained to the bed for life!"
When she was satisfied the cut had stopped bleeding completely, she gently dabs an ointment over it. Inspite of the gentleness, his wound had the pleasure of receiving, Abhi knew she had no gentle thoughts for him right now.
Confronted with ten goons, he would fearlessly take them on, but this small package of a gorgeous woman in front of him, mouth clamped tightly, face beautifully glowing with the anger stemming from within, was making a jelly out of his nerves.
He wonders if he should say something and break this uncomfortable silence. Sensibility says "Shut up Abhimanyu!" he tells himself. She may just get on top of him and beat the hell out of him. He had the pleasure of experiencing that once before. With bated breath, he continues to stare at her, waiting for her to explode. "Will she? will she not?" the mantra kept playing in his mind. "Come on Nikki, Out with it! Spare me this torture!"
Nikki was uncomfortable with his eyes poring all over her face.
"You always do what pleases you!" she finally explodes, unable to handle his scorching gaze.
"Ah! Atlast! Here it comes!" Abhi heaves a sigh of relief.
"What do you think of yourself? A Superman? Who asked you to run after them, like that? You should have let them be. But no, you have to prove yourself a Hero!" she scoffs at him with the raise of both hands
Now this is something he was definitely not expecting at all! Completely shaken by her accusation, he gapes disbelievingly at her.
"Hello!" he bellows "those guys attacked you and snatched your bag! What did you want me to do? Say "Bye, Bye, See ya, Do return the bag tomorrow, if it pleases you guys and yes, if possible do inform us about your next visit. We'll be duly honoured!"
Nikki was even more infuriated with his taunting.
"Its only a bag Abhi. They were thieves. We can always put a police complaint."
"Its not only about the bag Nikki, its about these hoodlums entering our hospital premises," he retorts angrily. He was already annoyed that the goons had got away. "If I had caught them it would be easier for the police and us to know who the culprits are."
"What if they had attacked you with that knife?" a tiny shiver goes through her whole body at the thought. "You keep telling me to take care of myself yet when it comes to yourself, you don't realize the danger you get into."
"Dammit Nikki why don't you understand?" Abhi grunts in frustration. "You think I enjoy getting hurt? I have a responsibility to my patients and staff!"
"And what about your responsibility to me and our baby?" she snaps back at him "If anything happened to you ? and Mama? Thank god she is in Pune for the weekend. What if she had to see you like this ?"
"Nikki but...."
"but what Abhi?" She flares at him. "do you know what I go through when I see you in danger ?
"Wow! Now you realize it! " Abhi sneers. " I keep going through it all the time when you stupidly put yourself in danger. Even today, I told you to wait for me in your cabin. But no! you had to do the opposite of what I say and then you turn around and accuse me of doing what I like. Do you realize you would have been injured today?
"So go ahead punish me for it!" she challenges him tilting her face upwards. "If you've not had your fill of punishing me, go ahead and dish out some more," there were angry tears in her eyes. Abhi begins to soften at her words.
"Nikki that's not true," his voice carried the softness he was feeling. "I can never think of punishing you. He reaches for her shoulders but Nikki pushes his hands away and continues to dress the wound on his forehead.
"Nikki, look calm down!" Abhi pleads, but she ignores him and slaps the plaster tape forcefully on his forehead.
"Oww!" Abhi winces. Regretting her act, her hand instinctively goes to the spot. A smile erupts on Abhi's face at her spontaneous tenderness, inspite of her anger.
"Dr. Nikita, Do you treat all your patients like this?
"Only the most insufferable, pig-headed ones! And you know what? In my whole career, I have had the misfortune of meeting only one. Do you want to know who?" her eyes were blazing.
"I know, I know. Yours truly!" Shaking his head and with a charming smile, Abhi raises his palm in acceptance.
Caught in his irresistible smile, Nikki finds herself melting. She darts a scowl him.
"Dying to scratch my face?" he teases
"Yes," she confirms, with a sardonic twisting of her face.
"Well go ahead and do it. You'll feel better," he tells her understandingly.
Nikki remains mum. "Come on, go ahead and do it," he goads. "You've always been spunky. What's stopping you now?'
Pointing to her heart, she chokingly says, "This is what is stopping me. This hurts me when you hurt, but you won't understand that!" she sneers.
Shutting his eyes, Abhi hangs his head down in defeat. His face, his head, everything felt sore and he had no inclination to carry on with this argument anymore, neither, did he want her to get more upset, especially in this condition.
"Okay, look, I am sorry. I didn't mean to upset you," sheepishly he tells her the truth. "I don't want you to be hurt!"
"yeah that is why you keep troubling me so much !" Nikki counters back at him. "Always getting angry on me, hurting me or upsetting me."
Tears begin to trickle down her cheeks. She angrily brushes them away with the back of her palm. There is a heavy tug in Abhi's heart. He puts his fingers under her chin and lifts it up. Annoyed, Nikki slaps his hand away.
"Just leave me alone! Don't touch me!" she tells him agitatedly.
"Nikki'..." he calls out lovingly. She hated it when he called her like that. There was so much love and concern in his voice, yet inspite of it, he manages to hurt her all the time.
Abruptly she stands up, her heart was heavy, her eyes teary. With one knee bent over the bed, she looms over him and holds his head on either side. Then pulling it gently forward, she proceeds to check the wound at the back of his head.
Abhi smiles. He was enjoying the warmth she was exuding as she encircled him.
"Thank God, its not a bad one!" she mutters, but, Abhi is not listening.
He holds her around her waist and places soft kisses on her stomach. Through the fabric of her kurti, Nikki can feel the heat of his kisses. She shuts her eyes bracing herself. How does she fight him when he keeps capturing all her senses all the time! Without actually intending to, her hands automatically looped around his neck.
Encouraged by her response, Abhi looks up at her and gently pulls her down, till she sits facing him. Leaning closer to her, he looks searchingly into her face. Nikki eyes him with suspicion. The tears shone like bulbs in her eyes, making them sparkle.
"Your eyes look even more beautiful," he whispers "with those big tears in them."
"Oh yeah! That is why you make me cry all the time?" she sniffs.
Abhi chuckles at her stubborn attempt to cling on to the last tiny bit of receding anger.
A lone teardrop then leaves her left eye. Abhi bends forward and catches it on her cheek, with his lips. He traces its path back, upwards, ending it with a kiss on her eye.
Nikki's heart soars with happiness. She opens her eyes and finds him staring at her. Her cheeks flushes with colour. They were so close, she could feel the warmth of his breath on her face. His index finger moves lazily, up and down her face in a slow caress. This time Nikki does not protest.
"I hurt you?" he asks, in a soft whisper, his finger tormentingly playing all over her face making her heart throb violently.
She nods her head in the affirmative, agonizingly moving her face towards his touch.
"Hmmm.........so I hurt you? " Abhi drawls once again, his eyes were now gleaming with mischief.
"You do!" she tells him vehemently. "You should be sorry for it."
" I did say sorry!" Abhi reminds her
"Sorry!" she mouths mockingly.
"Hmmm.........Doesn't work?" Abhi raises an eyebrow. Sulkily, Nikki shakes her head in the negative.
"No mercy?" He asks again, making a puppy face.
It took all she possessed for Nikki to stop herself from laughing. She screws up her nose in reply to him.
"Even if I show you how sorry I am?"
"Really? And how?" curiosity makes her eyes narrow together.
With a seductive smile, Abhi pulls her closer and putting his lips on hers mumbles, "Like This!"
Nikki punches him on the chest. "Its not fair!" her protest was just a feeble token.
"Whats not fair?" he asks feigning innocence. "This?" he moves his lips to edge of her mouth. Nikki parts her lips in anticipation of another kiss. "Or this?" He lifts his lips, deliberately, not giving into her desire and kisses the other end of her mouth. "Or this ?" he kisses her lower lip. Nikki is unable to bear his torture anymore. "I hate you Abhi!" she moans, her hands moving behind his neck and pulling him closer to her. Abhi chortles at her impatience and aggression. He then firmly clamps his mouth over hers. A delighted Nikki begins to wallow in the luxury of his kisses.
"So Sorry dinner plans got ruined," Abhi whispers sometime in between their kissing , "and I've never been a dessert person, but, this is the only dessert I can even die for!" There is a naughty gleam in his eyes.
"Shut up, Will you?" Nikki playfully punches him on the chest.
"As you say!" he grins pulling her once again into his arms and raining kisses all over her face and neck.
"Ooops sorry, I promise I didn't see much." Startled by Muskaan's voice, they pull apart. They were so caught up with each other that they forgot Muskaan was waiting outside for them. Seeing her back towards them and her hand covering her face in embarrassment, Abhi and Nikki smile knowingly at each other.
"Yes Dr. Muskaan?" Abhi asks wryly. "What can we do for you?"
Muskaan turns towards them. "Oye, you two, I am so hungry and bored out there and you two are romancing here. First you fight as if you will kill each other and then you....... you........." she flusters "KISS," it was a tiny squeak that came out "Kiss as if there is no tomorrow." Abhi and Nikki are highly amused. Their faces filled with mirth, they look at each other. "And even if you want to, can't you shut the door and romance?" Muskaan continues with her ranting.
"Sorry Muskaanji," Abhi's voice had sarcasm in it. "Next time, I want to kiss my wife, in my own house, in my own room, I'll surely remember to take permission from you. Anything else Jee" he mocks meekness blinking his eyes.
Stiffling her giggle, Nikki makes eyes at him.
"I've come to tell you Pushpa has served dinner," Muskaan tells him hotly, annoyed with his teasing her "Also you forgot? We still have to discuss Mr. Khanna's case."
"Bhai!" Sid bursts into the room.
"Aah! See your prayers are heard," Abhi tells Muskaan "Someone has come to give you company."
Sid goes over to the bed.
"Bhai what happened? Pushpa said you were injured." There was genuine concern all over his face.
"I am fine Sid. Just had a scrap with a couple of thieves"
"Tell me Bhai, did you see their faces. How dare they do this to you? I'll straighten them up. How can anyone lay a finger on my brother and get away with it! How I wish I was there!" The other three smile watching his innocent ranting displaying his concern and reverence for his brother.
Abhi was deeply touched by his concern.
"Relax Sid! I am fine," he assures him.
"Yeah and enough of injuries for the day," Nikki stands up darting a peevish glance at Abhi, who returns a sheepish smile , as he steps out of the bed.
"Lets have dinner, I am starving" she tells them.
"Yeah okay," Abhi looks guiltily at her. He didn't realise how hungry she must be. "Muskaan we will discuss your case after dinner."
When they were walking out of the room, Abhi slowly entwines his fingers into hers and holds her back.
"Should we try dinner tomorrow or stick to dessert?" he asks her, his eyes dancing with mischief
"Na Na," Nikki shakes her head in the negative. "No dinner tomorrow"
"Okay Dessert? I knew it!" he exclaims excitedly, bending forward in an attempt to steal a kiss.
"Na Na.......no dessert either!" Nikki teases placing a finger on his lips, thwarting his attempt.
"Why?"
"Because we have to go to Rohit's place. Remember they are leaving on Sunday for their honeymoon and have invited us for dinner tomorrow."
"Oh No!" Abhi rolls his eyes in exasperation.
"Oh Yes!" impishily, Nikki's eyebrows take turn in dancing. "Now lets have today's dinner today itself.
"And dessert?"
"You already had too much for the day! You didn't even deserve it!" she tells him, her eyes scanning his injuries.
"Where the hell are you guys stuck now?" Hearing Muskaan's bellowing Nikki smiles and pushes Abhi ahead, as she follows him out of the room
Just as they sat down for dinner, Riddhima, Armaan, Anjali and Atul enter, letting them know, as soon as Muskaan informed them Abhi was injured, they were so worried, they had to come and see him. Abhi was overwhelmed with their concern.
During dinner, Armaan rags Abhi about his injuries.
"Tomorrow wear a shirt that matches with your medals," he teases. Everyone burst out laughing. Sid who was sitting next to Armaan raises his hand and they exchange a High Five.
"Yeah, Yeah," Abhi grins. "I would only be too happy to give some medals to you." Mockingly, he waves a fist at Armaan. Everyone laugh. "Or wait, I have a better idea! Why don't I just mummify you!" he tells him tongue in cheek. "Just imagine how good you'll look! From Armaan the Dude you'll be Armaan the Mummy!" Everyone roar into uncontrollable laughter.
Abhi had plans to spend some sweet moments with his wife tonight, but he never expected to be down with a few bruises instead. Things never necessarily go as per plans and then, not all failed plans, turn out to be disasters.
Today, the failed plan and bruised face made him realise he has so many lovely and caring people around him now. As he watches the happy faces laughing, teasing, and exchanging jokes, his heart begins to weigh heavily. He had never ever imagined they would care so much for him. A lump begins to form in his throat.
Noticing Abhi having suddenly gone quiet and lost in thoughts, Nikki begins to feel concerned. Gently she places her hand on his thigh bringing him out of his musings. Looking at her raised eyebrow, he blinks his eyes indicating he was fine. Nikki smiles and pulls away her hand. Abhi stops her hand midway and pulls it back on his thigh. He needed the comfort she was providing. Gently he caresses her hand and smiles at her.
After dinner the group get into serious discussion about the complications of Mr. Khanna's peptic ulcer. In midst of the discussion, Nikki was finding it difficult to keep awake. Her eyes were drooping. Noticing her brave attempts to stay awake, Abhi tells her to go to her room and sleep. Nikki was reluctant to go. She continues to sit with them, but, inspite of all her attempts, she curled up on the sofa and fell off to sleep bringing a smile on everyone's face. After they arrive at a decision, the group leave telling Abhi to be careful.
Looking at Nikki's sleeping form, Abhi smiles. How angelic she looked in her sleep when just a couple of hours ago, she was this blazing volcano.
Gently he lifts her up and carries her to their room, grimacing as his head twitches in pain, with the sudden increase in weight. He remembers how Nikki lovingly popped a pain relieving pill in his mouth the moment they were done with dinner and smiles.
He lays her gently on the bed and pulls the comforter over her. A deep tenderness fills his heart as he watches her draw her knees up till her abdomen, settling herself into a comfortable position as she slept.
If there was even an iota of doubt if she cared for him, it was completely wiped out with her angry and caring outpourings this evening. Unable to stop himself, he tenderly runs a finger on her face. "You make me whole Sweetheart !" his heart whispers as he watches her. "I love you from the bottom of my heart. I don't care a damn about the past anymore. Nothing matters to me. Only you and our baby," His hand moves down to her swollen abdomen. Looking at her face again, he smiles fondly, "You are my whole world."
He wished he could wake her up and tell it to her there and then. But, he knew she was physically and mentally exhausted by the incident in the evening. He himself was feeling very tired and sleepy.
An idea dawns on him. He'll give her a surprise. Tomorrow night after the dinner, he'll book themselves in a hotel room. No, he decides against it with the shake of his head. Its best not risking it by taking her out, especially after tonight.
Instead he'll get their room decorated while they are at Rohit's place. Its time to give her that something special he secretly got made for her. But, he'll need someone to do it for him and keep it a secret from Nikki and everyone. Who? He ponders. After narrowing down the options in his mind, he decides on Armaan and Riddhima. They can co-ordinate with Pushpa and set it up from him.
He looks back at Nikki.
"I love you!" he whispers.
"I love you too!" pat came her response.
Abhi is rooted to the spot.
"Nikki?" he gets no answer
"Nikki?"
"Abhi, please let me sleep," she mumbles grudgingly indicating she was fast asleep.
Abhi shakes his head in relief and smiles
PRECAP TO PART 33
But now was not the right time, he'll do it when he surprises her tonight. Now he'll tease her a little.
"Abhi?" she whispers, nudging him out of his reverie.
"Without a punishment? Do you think its fair?" he asks her pretending hurt. "I want my pound of flesh!"
"You know Abhi this is the first time I, willingly, want to put myself through punishment. Do you know why?"
Abhi shrugs trying to figure out the answer.
"Because sometime or the other, we all want to atone for our mistakes?"
"No!" Nikki shakes her head. "because YOU paid heavily for my mistake!'
Abhi feels his heart ripping apart as he looks at the stark honesty in her eyes.
"So tell me Abhi what is your pound of flesh?"
Smiling wryly, Abhi turns to the mirror and brushes his hair. "Let it go Nikki, You won't be able to do it!'
Nikki comes up behind him and puts her arms around him placing her hands on his chest.
"Try me Abhi!" she prods.
"Sure?" he questions with the raise of his eyebrow.
"Yeah," Nikki nods, resting her chin on his shoulder.
Not giving them a chance to recover from his blows, Abhi holds them by their throats and questions them fiercely.
"Who are you ? What do you guys want ?"
Still disoriented, the hoodlums struggle to get away from Abhi's grip, but he proved too strong for the two of them put together.
Nikki and Muskaan notice someone coming up behind Abhi. It was too dark for them to see clearly. However, they noticed he had something like a bat in his hand.
"Abhi, watch out!" Nikki yells. But it was too late. Abhi is hit on the head. He felt as if the whole world was spinning wildly. He staggers back , his grip on the goons loosens. Taking advantage, the boys throw a few hard punches on his face. Nikki's heart begins to sink. She can hear Muskaan calling for for help, but her own voice betrays her.
Fearing they'll be caught, the goons throw the bag on Abhi's face and dash off. Groaning with pain he clutches his head and falls forward. Steeling himself, he struggles to stay on his feet. Putting pressure at the hit on his head, he turns, supporting his back with the wall. Through cloudy eyes he watches the hoodlums escaping.
Damn, he could do nothing about it. But wait! there were three of them! He remembered the blow came from behind. Where did the third one come from?" he wonders. His head was hurting, his whole face felt sore and bloody. He was finding it difficult to keep his eyes open.
Nikki and Muskaan have now reached him.
"Abhi.......Abhi.......are you okay," a frightened Nikki asks him "Oh My God!" she begins to panic seeing blood all over his face.
"I am fine," he tells her, grimacing with pain. "Is Premchand around? Call him, lets go home."
"Whaaat?? But, Abhi you are bleeding," Nikki was appalled at his words. "We are at the hospital, lets get you treated."
"I am fine Nikki," Abhi assures her, though his face continues to contort with pain. But, he was able to see much clearer now. Even though, his head was hurting, he knew it wasn't very serious. "Just lets get out from here."
"Dr. Modi, Nikki is right. You should get treated'.."
"Dr. Muskaan, for god's sake, you both do as I say," Abhi growls impatiently. "Don't forget we have patients coming and leaving. I don't want any kind of panic or scene in the hospital right now. Believe me, I am fine. Lets just go home."
On their way out, Abhi stops and tells the security to be on alert. He asks them to check the area around the basketball if they find anything.
Sitting in the rear seat of the car next to Abhi, Nikki was feeling nauseated seeing the blood on Abhi's face and the graze on his knuckle. The blood was thickening at the corner of his forehead. Her heart begins to ache. Gently, she wipes the trickle of blood at the end of his mouth with her finger.
Abhi was touched by her gesture. "Does your head hurt?" she asks him
"yeah a bit," he tells her his hand touching the back of his head. "I think I'll need a pain killer later."
"You don't think it's a concussion? "
"No," he confirms.
"Did you recognize those guys?" asks Muskaan, who was sitting in the front seat next to the driver.
"No, I think they were thieves," Abhi replies. He was upset they had escaped. It was stressing him that such elements could enter the hospital premises. He knew it couldn't be helped if they entered as patients, but they definitely need to look into the matter seriously. Perhaps step up the security.
"I think I should drop you home and go back and talk to the security," he voiced his intention. "We definitely need to do something about it."
"Whaat?" the two girls were taken aback by his words.
"Abhi have you gone mad?" Nikki puffs angrily at him. "You are hurt and you want to go back in this condition?
"I am fine Nikki," he tells her. "just a few bruises"
"A few bruises! Isn't that enough? or are you unhappy your bones are not broken?" Nikki was livid.
"Nikki calm down! I was only thinking........."
"Don't tell me anything," she snaps "Do what you want! In any case you'll never do anything I say!" She turns her face towards the window trying to hide the tears threatening to fall from her eys.
"Few Bruises!" her heart echoes his words. Those few bruises were killing her here and he is so casual about it!
"Nikki?" Abhi calls out nervously, knowing she is upset and not sure how to handle it. Gently he puts his hand over hers. An upset Nikki pulls her hand away in annoyance. Dejected, at her rejection, Abhi turns his face towards the other side and looks out of the window. There was an awkward silence in the car.
Reaching home, he excuses himself and heading straight for his room, he goes into the bathroom. Few minutes later, when he comes out of the bathroom, wearing a black sleeveless vest over slacks, he finds Nikki waiting for him with the medicine box in hand. She notices his face was now clean and his injuries much clearer now. A grazed skin above his temple and at the side of his cheekbone, a tiny cut on his lower lip, spoke of his tryst with the hoodlums.
"I am fine." He tells her nonchantly "I've cleaned the wound"
"I can see it, but, the one on your cheekbone is still bleeding. Also, you'll need an antibiotic ointment.
"I'll do it later," he tells her casually strolling towards the bed and bending to pick up his phone lying on it.
When he straightens up, he finds Nikki's eyes glowering at him.
Putting her hand on on his chest, she pushes him on to the bed.
"Just sit quietly," she tells him sternly. Abhi is speechless, his eyes are transfixed on her. "Shift in!" she orders him. Mechanically, he lifts his legs onto the bed and moves in, his eyes not leaving her, as she sits beside him.
Taking a gauge she applies pressure over the scrape on his cheekbone. Abhi grimaces. There is a momentary softening of her expression but then when he looks at her, her expression changes to anger again.
He knew she was upset with his suggestion of going back to Sanjeevani. "Good God! Going back to Sanjeevani? No Way! Looking at her face flushed with anger and the tautness in her body displaying an invisible placard reading 'Don't Mess with me', he has erased the thought completely from his memory. He'd rather be chained to the bed for life!"
When she was satisfied the cut had stopped bleeding completely, she gently dabs an ointment over it. Inspite of the gentleness, his wound had the pleasure of receiving, Abhi knew she had no gentle thoughts for him right now.
Confronted with ten goons, he would fearlessly take them on, but this small package of a gorgeous woman in front of him, mouth clamped tightly, face beautifully glowing with the anger stemming from within, was making a jelly out of his nerves.
He wonders if he should say something and break this uncomfortable silence. Sensibility says "Shut up Abhimanyu!" he tells himself. She may just get on top of him and beat the hell out of him. He had the pleasure of experiencing that once before. With bated breath, he continues to stare at her, waiting for her to explode. "Will she? will she not?" the mantra kept playing in his mind. "Come on Nikki, Out with it! Spare me this torture!"
Nikki was uncomfortable with his eyes poring all over her face.
"You always do what pleases you!" she finally explodes, unable to handle his scorching gaze.
"Ah! Atlast! Here it comes!" Abhi heaves a sigh of relief.
"What do you think of yourself? A Superman? Who asked you to run after them, like that? You should have let them be. But no, you have to prove yourself a Hero!" she scoffs at him with the raise of both hands
Now this is something he was definitely not expecting at all! Completely shaken by her accusation, he gapes disbelievingly at her.
"Hello!" he bellows "those guys attacked you and snatched your bag! What did you want me to do? Say "Bye, Bye, See ya, Do return the bag tomorrow, if it pleases you guys and yes, if possible do inform us about your next visit. We'll be duly honoured!"
Nikki was even more infuriated with his taunting.
"Its only a bag Abhi. They were thieves. We can always put a police complaint."
"Its not only about the bag Nikki, its about these hoodlums entering our hospital premises," he retorts angrily. He was already annoyed that the goons had got away. "If I had caught them it would be easier for the police and us to know who the culprits are."
"What if they had attacked you with that knife?" a tiny shiver goes through her whole body at the thought. "You keep telling me to take care of myself yet when it comes to yourself, you don't realize the danger you get into."
"Dammit Nikki why don't you understand?" Abhi grunts in frustration. "You think I enjoy getting hurt? I have a responsibility to my patients and staff!"
"And what about your responsibility to me and our baby?" she snaps back at him "If anything happened to you ? and Mama? Thank god she is in Pune for the weekend. What if she had to see you like this ?"
"Nikki but...."
"but what Abhi?" She flares at him. "do you know what I go through when I see you in danger ?
"Wow! Now you realize it! " Abhi sneers. " I keep going through it all the time when you stupidly put yourself in danger. Even today, I told you to wait for me in your cabin. But no! you had to do the opposite of what I say and then you turn around and accuse me of doing what I like. Do you realize you would have been injured today?
"So go ahead punish me for it!" she challenges him tilting her face upwards. "If you've not had your fill of punishing me, go ahead and dish out some more," there were angry tears in her eyes. Abhi begins to soften at her words.
"Nikki that's not true," his voice carried the softness he was feeling. "I can never think of punishing you. He reaches for her shoulders but Nikki pushes his hands away and continues to dress the wound on his forehead.
"Nikki, look calm down!" Abhi pleads, but she ignores him and slaps the plaster tape forcefully on his forehead.
"Oww!" Abhi winces. Regretting her act, her hand instinctively goes to the spot. A smile erupts on Abhi's face at her spontaneous tenderness, inspite of her anger.
"Dr. Nikita, Do you treat all your patients like this?
"Only the most insufferable, pig-headed ones! And you know what? In my whole career, I have had the misfortune of meeting only one. Do you want to know who?" her eyes were blazing.
"I know, I know. Yours truly!" Shaking his head and with a charming smile, Abhi raises his palm in acceptance.
Caught in his irresistible smile, Nikki finds herself melting. She darts a scowl him.
"Dying to scratch my face?" he teases
"Yes," she confirms, with a sardonic twisting of her face.
"Well go ahead and do it. You'll feel better," he tells her understandingly.
Nikki remains mum. "Come on, go ahead and do it," he goads. "You've always been spunky. What's stopping you now?'
Pointing to her heart, she chokingly says, "This is what is stopping me. This hurts me when you hurt, but you won't understand that!" she sneers.
Shutting his eyes, Abhi hangs his head down in defeat. His face, his head, everything felt sore and he had no inclination to carry on with this argument anymore, neither, did he want her to get more upset, especially in this condition.
"Okay, look, I am sorry. I didn't mean to upset you," sheepishly he tells her the truth. "I don't want you to be hurt!"
"yeah that is why you keep troubling me so much !" Nikki counters back at him. "Always getting angry on me, hurting me or upsetting me."
Tears begin to trickle down her cheeks. She angrily brushes them away with the back of her palm. There is a heavy tug in Abhi's heart. He puts his fingers under her chin and lifts it up. Annoyed, Nikki slaps his hand away.
"Just leave me alone! Don't touch me!" she tells him agitatedly.
"Nikki'..." he calls out lovingly. She hated it when he called her like that. There was so much love and concern in his voice, yet inspite of it, he manages to hurt her all the time.
Abruptly she stands up, her heart was heavy, her eyes teary. With one knee bent over the bed, she looms over him and holds his head on either side. Then pulling it gently forward, she proceeds to check the wound at the back of his head.
Abhi smiles. He was enjoying the warmth she was exuding as she encircled him.
"Thank God, its not a bad one!" she mutters, but, Abhi is not listening.
He holds her around her waist and places soft kisses on her stomach. Through the fabric of her kurti, Nikki can feel the heat of his kisses. She shuts her eyes bracing herself. How does she fight him when he keeps capturing all her senses all the time! Without actually intending to, her hands automatically looped around his neck.
Encouraged by her response, Abhi looks up at her and gently pulls her down, till she sits facing him. Leaning closer to her, he looks searchingly into her face. Nikki eyes him with suspicion. The tears shone like bulbs in her eyes, making them sparkle.
"Your eyes look even more beautiful," he whispers "with those big tears in them."
"Oh yeah! That is why you make me cry all the time?" she sniffs.
Abhi chuckles at her stubborn attempt to cling on to the last tiny bit of receding anger.
A lone teardrop then leaves her left eye. Abhi bends forward and catches it on her cheek, with his lips. He traces its path back, upwards, ending it with a kiss on her eye.
Nikki's heart soars with happiness. She opens her eyes and finds him staring at her. Her cheeks flushes with colour. They were so close, she could feel the warmth of his breath on her face. His index finger moves lazily, up and down her face in a slow caress. This time Nikki does not protest.
"I hurt you?" he asks, in a soft whisper, his finger tormentingly playing all over her face making her heart throb violently.
She nods her head in the affirmative, agonizingly moving her face towards his touch.
"Hmmm.........so I hurt you? " Abhi drawls once again, his eyes were now gleaming with mischief.
"You do!" she tells him vehemently. "You should be sorry for it."
" I did say sorry!" Abhi reminds her
"Sorry!" she mouths mockingly.
"Hmmm.........Doesn't work?" Abhi raises an eyebrow. Sulkily, Nikki shakes her head in the negative.
"No mercy?" He asks again, making a puppy face.
It took all she possessed for Nikki to stop herself from laughing. She screws up her nose in reply to him.
"Even if I show you how sorry I am?"
"Really? And how?" curiosity makes her eyes narrow together.
With a seductive smile, Abhi pulls her closer and putting his lips on hers mumbles, "Like This!"
Nikki punches him on the chest. "Its not fair!" her protest was just a feeble token.
"Whats not fair?" he asks feigning innocence. "This?" he moves his lips to edge of her mouth. Nikki parts her lips in anticipation of another kiss. "Or this?" He lifts his lips, deliberately, not giving into her desire and kisses the other end of her mouth. "Or this ?" he kisses her lower lip. Nikki is unable to bear his torture anymore. "I hate you Abhi!" she moans, her hands moving behind his neck and pulling him closer to her. Abhi chortles at her impatience and aggression. He then firmly clamps his mouth over hers. A delighted Nikki begins to wallow in the luxury of his kisses.
"So Sorry dinner plans got ruined," Abhi whispers sometime in between their kissing , "and I've never been a dessert person, but, this is the only dessert I can even die for!" There is a naughty gleam in his eyes.
"Shut up, Will you?" Nikki playfully punches him on the chest.
"As you say!" he grins pulling her once again into his arms and raining kisses all over her face and neck.
"Ooops sorry, I promise I didn't see much." Startled by Muskaan's voice, they pull apart. They were so caught up with each other that they forgot Muskaan was waiting outside for them. Seeing her back towards them and her hand covering her face in embarrassment, Abhi and Nikki smile knowingly at each other.
"Yes Dr. Muskaan?" Abhi asks wryly. "What can we do for you?"
Muskaan turns towards them. "Oye, you two, I am so hungry and bored out there and you two are romancing here. First you fight as if you will kill each other and then you....... you........." she flusters "KISS," it was a tiny squeak that came out "Kiss as if there is no tomorrow." Abhi and Nikki are highly amused. Their faces filled with mirth, they look at each other. "And even if you want to, can't you shut the door and romance?" Muskaan continues with her ranting.
"Sorry Muskaanji," Abhi's voice had sarcasm in it. "Next time, I want to kiss my wife, in my own house, in my own room, I'll surely remember to take permission from you. Anything else Jee" he mocks meekness blinking his eyes.
Stiffling her giggle, Nikki makes eyes at him.
"I've come to tell you Pushpa has served dinner," Muskaan tells him hotly, annoyed with his teasing her "Also you forgot? We still have to discuss Mr. Khanna's case."
"Bhai!" Sid bursts into the room.
"Aah! See your prayers are heard," Abhi tells Muskaan "Someone has come to give you company."
Sid goes over to the bed.
"Bhai what happened? Pushpa said you were injured." There was genuine concern all over his face.
"I am fine Sid. Just had a scrap with a couple of thieves"
"Tell me Bhai, did you see their faces. How dare they do this to you? I'll straighten them up. How can anyone lay a finger on my brother and get away with it! How I wish I was there!" The other three smile watching his innocent ranting displaying his concern and reverence for his brother.
Abhi was deeply touched by his concern.
"Relax Sid! I am fine," he assures him.
"Yeah and enough of injuries for the day," Nikki stands up darting a peevish glance at Abhi, who returns a sheepish smile , as he steps out of the bed.
"Lets have dinner, I am starving" she tells them.
"Yeah okay," Abhi looks guiltily at her. He didn't realise how hungry she must be. "Muskaan we will discuss your case after dinner."
When they were walking out of the room, Abhi slowly entwines his fingers into hers and holds her back.
"Should we try dinner tomorrow or stick to dessert?" he asks her, his eyes dancing with mischief
"Na Na," Nikki shakes her head in the negative. "No dinner tomorrow"
"Okay Dessert? I knew it!" he exclaims excitedly, bending forward in an attempt to steal a kiss.
"Na Na.......no dessert either!" Nikki teases placing a finger on his lips, thwarting his attempt.
"Why?"
"Because we have to go to Rohit's place. Remember they are leaving on Sunday for their honeymoon and have invited us for dinner tomorrow."
"Oh No!" Abhi rolls his eyes in exasperation.
"Oh Yes!" impishily, Nikki's eyebrows take turn in dancing. "Now lets have today's dinner today itself.
"And dessert?"
"You already had too much for the day! You didn't even deserve it!" she tells him, her eyes scanning his injuries.
"Where the hell are you guys stuck now?" Hearing Muskaan's bellowing Nikki smiles and pushes Abhi ahead, as she follows him out of the room
Just as they sat down for dinner, Riddhima, Armaan, Anjali and Atul enter, letting them know, as soon as Muskaan informed them Abhi was injured, they were so worried, they had to come and see him. Abhi was overwhelmed with their concern.
During dinner, Armaan rags Abhi about his injuries.
"Tomorrow wear a shirt that matches with your medals," he teases. Everyone burst out laughing. Sid who was sitting next to Armaan raises his hand and they exchange a High Five.
"Yeah, Yeah," Abhi grins. "I would only be too happy to give some medals to you." Mockingly, he waves a fist at Armaan. Everyone laugh. "Or wait, I have a better idea! Why don't I just mummify you!" he tells him tongue in cheek. "Just imagine how good you'll look! From Armaan the Dude you'll be Armaan the Mummy!" Everyone roar into uncontrollable laughter.
Abhi had plans to spend some sweet moments with his wife tonight, but he never expected to be down with a few bruises instead. Things never necessarily go as per plans and then, not all failed plans, turn out to be disasters.
Today, the failed plan and bruised face made him realise he has so many lovely and caring people around him now. As he watches the happy faces laughing, teasing, and exchanging jokes, his heart begins to weigh heavily. He had never ever imagined they would care so much for him. A lump begins to form in his throat.
Noticing Abhi having suddenly gone quiet and lost in thoughts, Nikki begins to feel concerned. Gently she places her hand on his thigh bringing him out of his musings. Looking at her raised eyebrow, he blinks his eyes indicating he was fine. Nikki smiles and pulls away her hand. Abhi stops her hand midway and pulls it back on his thigh. He needed the comfort she was providing. Gently he caresses her hand and smiles at her.
After dinner the group get into serious discussion about the complications of Mr. Khanna's peptic ulcer. In midst of the discussion, Nikki was finding it difficult to keep awake. Her eyes were drooping. Noticing her brave attempts to stay awake, Abhi tells her to go to her room and sleep. Nikki was reluctant to go. She continues to sit with them, but, inspite of all her attempts, she curled up on the sofa and fell off to sleep bringing a smile on everyone's face. After they arrive at a decision, the group leave telling Abhi to be careful.
Looking at Nikki's sleeping form, Abhi smiles. How angelic she looked in her sleep when just a couple of hours ago, she was this blazing volcano.
Gently he lifts her up and carries her to their room, grimacing as his head twitches in pain, with the sudden increase in weight. He remembers how Nikki lovingly popped a pain relieving pill in his mouth the moment they were done with dinner and smiles.
He lays her gently on the bed and pulls the comforter over her. A deep tenderness fills his heart as he watches her draw her knees up till her abdomen, settling herself into a comfortable position as she slept.
If there was even an iota of doubt if she cared for him, it was completely wiped out with her angry and caring outpourings this evening. Unable to stop himself, he tenderly runs a finger on her face. "You make me whole Sweetheart !" his heart whispers as he watches her. "I love you from the bottom of my heart. I don't care a damn about the past anymore. Nothing matters to me. Only you and our baby," His hand moves down to her swollen abdomen. Looking at her face again, he smiles fondly, "You are my whole world."
He wished he could wake her up and tell it to her there and then. But, he knew she was physically and mentally exhausted by the incident in the evening. He himself was feeling very tired and sleepy.
An idea dawns on him. He'll give her a surprise. Tomorrow night after the dinner, he'll book themselves in a hotel room. No, he decides against it with the shake of his head. Its best not risking it by taking her out, especially after tonight.
Instead he'll get their room decorated while they are at Rohit's place. Its time to give her that something special he secretly got made for her. But, he'll need someone to do it for him and keep it a secret from Nikki and everyone. Who? He ponders. After narrowing down the options in his mind, he decides on Armaan and Riddhima. They can co-ordinate with Pushpa and set it up from him.
He looks back at Nikki.
"I love you!" he whispers.
"I love you too!" pat came her response.
Abhi is rooted to the spot.
"Nikki?" he gets no answer
"Nikki?"
"Abhi, please let me sleep," she mumbles grudgingly indicating she was fast asleep.
Abhi shakes his head in relief and smiles
PRECAP TO PART 33
But now was not the right time, he'll do it when he surprises her tonight. Now he'll tease her a little.
"Abhi?" she whispers, nudging him out of his reverie.
"Without a punishment? Do you think its fair?" he asks her pretending hurt. "I want my pound of flesh!"
"You know Abhi this is the first time I, willingly, want to put myself through punishment. Do you know why?"
Abhi shrugs trying to figure out the answer.
"Because sometime or the other, we all want to atone for our mistakes?"
"No!" Nikki shakes her head. "because YOU paid heavily for my mistake!'
Abhi feels his heart ripping apart as he looks at the stark honesty in her eyes.
"So tell me Abhi what is your pound of flesh?"
Smiling wryly, Abhi turns to the mirror and brushes his hair. "Let it go Nikki, You won't be able to do it!'
Nikki comes up behind him and puts her arms around him placing her hands on his chest.
"Try me Abhi!" she prods.
"Sure?" he questions with the raise of his eyebrow.
"Yeah," Nikki nods, resting her chin on his shoulder.
Monday, March 8, 2010
CONNECTED IN LOVE - PART 31
"Nikki, please stay here, " Abhi implores. "I'll try to alert someone by banging on the door."
He just hoped if it was a power failure, the back up generators were doing their job. "Of course, they will," he reminds himself.
Nikki too was wondering why the lights had gone off. Is it only her cabin lights or a major power failure ?
"Just imagine Abhi, if I was alone in the cabin and this happened?" She begins to shudder at the thought
"Nikki, relax! I am here with you," Abhi pacifies her, putting his arm around her. "So don't worry!"
"Yeah, Thank God, Abhi you are here with me or else I would have died," she buries her head into his chest.
"NIKKI!" Abhi snaps irritatedly. "Get a hold on yourself ! Don't say such things. It makes me me angry. Trust me. Nothing will happen. I won't let anything happen to you."
"Promise?" she asks softly, looking expectantly into his face.
Through the dim light coming from the torch, Abhi can see the fear and apprehension in her eyes. He knew she was beginning to worry on every little thing. It was normal at this stage of pregnancy.
Tenderly, he smiles at her. He tightens his left arm that was around her. Then with the other hand he slowly raises her hand to his lips and lovingly kisses it. "Promise," he confirms
Nikki was joyous. She places her head on his chest and snuggles into the warmth of his embrace. For long moments, they stand revelling in the warmth of the other. No word is being uttered.
Nikki, then tilts her head backward and looks up at Abhi. He can see the love and tenderness in her eyes. The graveness of the situation is all forgotten as they stare passionately at each other, their hearts beat rapidly, their breath fanning the other. As if in a daze, Abhi's hand reaches for her face and gently caresses her jawline . Nikki closes her eyes and lifts her face to him. He then bends his face lower till his lips were merely a brushing distance from hers. Nikki is dismayed when he stops. She feels a hot ache on her lips.
"Nikki," Abhi whispers. There is deep passion in his voice. Nikki open her eyes. She can see the intensity in his eyes. Then, burning with desire, Abhi places his lips on hers.
The lights suddenly come on startling them.
"Ah! Ah! Few minutes ago they were fighting now, they are in each other's arms." They are shocked to hear Armaan's voice.
Drawing apart they find Armaan, Riddhima and the rest of the gang watching them with amusement.
"For your kind information, your fight was getting nonsensical, so I switched off the lights, pulled the phone wires off hook and locked the door to get you to stop your fight," Armaan tells them. "See how successful we are! Right ?" he looks around at the others for confirmation. There was laughter from everyone.
Abhi and Nikki are completely flustered.
"I've said this many times before, Armaan. The hospital is not a playground" an embarrassed Abhi admonishes him feebly. He was feeling foolish, like a school kid caught in a silly act. "You know I don't like fooling around in the hospital." There was irritation in his voice.
"Haan Haan pata hai," Armaan tells him. "That is why you are behaving as if you are in your bedroom''. fighting and romancing your wife,"
Abhi darts a murderous look at him, while everyone laugh. Nikki's cheeks have now turned crimson red.
"Armaan!" She chides him. "You scared us!"
"Hey what are you complaining about?" Armaan teases her. "You had an opportunity to be in your husband's arms during working hours. With Dr. Moody you know how difficult is that! Haan, if your upset for breaking your kiss, I apologise for being a spoilsport," he tells her tongue in cheek. "Whether Dr. Moody cares or does not care, I definitely care for his reputation. Hai na ?" he winks at Abhi.
"You Dog!" Abhi flings a pen at his face and had Armaan not ducked, the pen would have hit right on target. He returns a wide grin to Abhi. There is peals of laughter in the room while Abhi and Nikki look helplessly at each other.
Finally, with the excuse of having to complete some work, Abhi quickly makes his escape. Armaan, too, says he has to collect some certificates from the office and walks out of the cabin. The others follow him. Walking in the corridor, Riddhima quietly drags Nikki to the terrace hoping to chat with her alone.
She tells Nikki she knows there is some problem between Abhi and her and wanted to know if she could do anything for them. Sensing Nikki's hesitation, she also assures that she was okay if Nikki was not comfortable in talking about it to her.
"Oh Riddhima, you know if there is any person I would confide anything to, then it is you," Nikki tells her friend.
She then relates the Park Hotel incident and all that had transpired between Abhi and her because of it.
Riddhima was aghast. She was also apologetic for bringing up the topic at the party and begins to curse herself for it. However, Nikki would not hear of it.
"If I was in your place, I would have been asking the same questions Riddhima. We are close friends. I would be equally excited to know about your experiences" Nikki explains to her.
"I think whatever happens, happens for the best. Perhaps we needed this rift ," she assures Riddhima. "It has made us realize we don't just love each other but that, our love is a much more deeper. It is strong enough to keep us one inspite of all adversities." Nikki tells her.
"I know," Riddhma smiles affectionately at her. "I can see it."
Nikki smiles back. "It has made me even more determined to stand by Abhi and not falter, inspite of all the odds," she tells her with a faraway look. "I can also see he is working hard on it. He seems to be handling it much better than what I did. Inspite of all the anger and pain, he has not thrown insults at me like I did to him!" Nikki's eyes was filling up with pain as she remembers all the bad things she threw at Abhi
Riddhima tenderly puts a consoling arm around her. "Don't worry Nikki, everything will be fine." She begins to smile impishly. "In fact I can see everything is fine. You both get so lost into each other," she teases reminding Nikki of their moment in the cabin. Nikki blushes.
Wondering where had Riddhima and Nikki vanished, Anjali, Atul and Muskaan were searching all over for them till they were directed to the terrace by the nurse.
Peeping through the tiny window of the terrace door, they overhear Riddhima telling Nikki that its impossible for Abhimanyu to be angry with her for long. It won't take long for him to realize how much he loves his wife.
"I hope so!" Nikki sighs. "I know he loves me but I am waiting for the day, my husband comes back to me, free from all anger and resentment."
The three people behind the door were shocked at their conversation.
"Looks like Dr. Modi is still upset with Nikki for that Sonali incident," Anjali tells her friends as they move away from the door and into the passage.
"Hmmmm," Muskaan and Atul mumble in agreement.
"Hey Guys, the fault was ours too and we need to rectify it," Atul tells them.
"Haan, but what can we do?" Muskaan asks
"We'll have to show Dr. Modi what a lovely wife Nikki is," Atul suggests
"How?" the girls ask him.
"We'll bring out Nikki's special qualities in front of him," Atul tells them and begins to whisper his plan.
Riddhima and Nikki were completely in dark of the new plan being hatched on the other side of the terrace door.
Finally the group decide to have dinner together.
Abhi and Nikki were unaware that every of their move every was under minute scrutiny by three pair of eyes.
While they were having dessert, Nikki asks Abhi to have the chocolate ice cream, since he wasn't haven't any dessert, but, he refuses saying he was not too fond of it.
"Just one bite!" lovingly she coaxes him holding a spoon of the ice cream to his mouth.
Abhi smiles at her persistence. Holding her hand, he takes the spoon closer to his mouth and swipes off the ice-cream from it. A satisfied Nikki smiles at him. Then taking a tissue she dabs his lips. "How Sweet!" Riddhima exclaims, exchanging smiles with Armaan. Taking the cue, Atul, Anjali and Muskaan wink at each other.
"Yes, what a loving and caring wife Nikki is!" they too exclaim excitedly. They were so loud that they were heard by the whole restaurant.
Abhi, Nikki, Armaan and Riddhima were startled by their bombastic announcement.
The three charged doctors on mission carried on their endeavours even on to the next day.
When Abhi was passing in the corridor he finds the three in deep discussion.
"Good Morning Doctors," he greets them "Is there a problem? You all look quiet tense!" His unnanounced appearance make them nervous. They shift in discomfort hoping he did not hear their conversation. Noticing them avoiding his gaze, his eyes narrow in suspicion.
At that moment, Dr. Keerti was passing with a pregnant patient. On being greeted by the patient, Abhi smiles at her and asks if everything was fine with her, to which she nods. After the two leave, Atul goes closer to Abhi.
"Dr. Modi, hasn't this Mrs Kumar gone fat," Abhi is taken aback with his question.
"That's because she is five months pregnant, Dr. Atul," he replies.
"But then Nikki is going to be in her sixth month soon," Anjali reminds him. "Yet, she hasn't put on too much weight. Except for her cute bulge, nothing else reveals her pregnancy."
Abhi looks dumfounded at them. He cannot believe his wife's anatomy is the topic of discussion here.
"Not everyone is the same," he explains to them.
"Yeah, Nikki is different and special!" they squeal loudly startling Abhi whose eyes widen in astonishment.
"Yeah I know, I know, what is there to yell?" he asks them " and why is Nikki being glorified all of a sudden ?"
"Because she is special," they tell him promptly
"But she has always been special, Have you guys noticed it only recently?"
Now it was their turn to look dumbfounded. 'Who is telling who?' they wondered. He was telling them what they are trying to tell him.
Looking at their blank expressions, Abhi shakes his head in exasperation and walks away.
Only Nikki can understand her friends! They were beyond his understanding and he wasn't even going to waste his time getting there.
Sometime in the afternoon, a doctors' meeting having just finished, the doctors begin to leave the room one by one. When Nikki reaches the door, she is stopped by Abhi.
"Nikki, please wait. I want to ask you something, give me a minute." He starts collecting his papers and putting them in a folder.
Nikki's heart is filled with tenderness as she watches him. They've hardly spoken since last night. By the time they reached home, Nikki fell asleep and when she awoke in the morning, he had already left for work. Neither did they get an opportunity to see each other at Sanjeevani as they were caught up with an extremely busy morning.
Nikki remembers, everytime she stirred into awakeness in the night, she always found Abhi's tender arms around her. A smile breaks on her face.
Watching the two, Atul Muskaan and Anjali nudge each other.
"Oye Nikki, how do you manage to stay so beautiful inspite of your pregnancy?" Muskaan asks her pulling her back into the room.
"Yeah isn't she beautiful Dr. Modi?" Anjali asks him earnestly.
"I notice that everyday Dr. Anjali," Abhi tells her sardonically. When he looks at Nikki, his eyes begin to fill with passion. "Infact, she is becoming more beautiful with every passing day," he drawls, his eyes peering intensely at her. Nikki blushes at his compliment.
"That's fine!" Atul tells him "But do you tell that to her?"
"Excuse Me?" Abhi looks bewildered at Atul.
Nikki's eyes also widen with shock.
"What I tell my wife is none of your business Dr. Atul," Abhi thunders fiercely at him.
"Guys, what is the matter with you all?" Nikki is flummoxed at the behavior of her friends. 'Why are they acting so weird?'
"Oye Nikki, don't worry yaar, we are there for you. We are only trying to remove all problems between you and your husband" Muskaan tells Nikki, lowering her tone, but it did not escape Abhi's ears.
An appalled Nikki jerks up as she looks at Abhi. She can see the colour draining from his face. His eyes narrow darkly as he stares unhappily at her.
She shakes her head in a bid to negate Muskaan's words.
"Abhi....." she mouths in despair.
"Doctors, I think you need to concentrate on your work and how to be better doctors," There was coldness in Abhi's voice. "Leave us to deal with our lives. We don't need any interference from anyone. Now please leave." He snarls at them.
The harshness in his voice and frigidity in his eyes send alarming signals to all three. They quickly hasten out of the conference room.
The room is tense, engulfed with an uneasy silence. Hands clammy, Nikki slowly wobbles towards Abhi. There was sadness and pain in his eyes.
"Abhi.........Muskaan........I....did not"
"Nikki, I would really appreciate if you could keep our problems between us and not go telling it to everyone."
"Abhi......but....I........." He raises his hand to stop her. Looking at the pleading in her eyes, he shuts his eyes as if gathering strength. He then opens it and there is softness in them.
"Look Nikki, I do understand, things haven't been good between us for the past few months. I also understand you feel the need to unburden on to someone and I am no help on that front. But, please not them!" there was pleading in his voice. "I can still understand you talking to Riddhima about it but not them. I know they are nice, they are your friends and are very fond of you, but they lack the maturity to handle their own problems and because of them, I don't want our personal life bared open to the whole world. What we have, should remain between us."
Nikki stares at him. She could not believe he was saying those words. He was not lashing angrily at her like he always did.
"Abhi...." she did not know what to say, completely at a loss for words.
"Anyway, forget all this!" He tells her shrugging it off with the shake of his head. "I've been wanting to ask you," he pauses briefly. "If you are upto it, can we go out for dinner today?"
Nikki is all the more stumped. There was no anger or bitterness, infact, it has been replaced with some kind of tenderness.
"Nikki are you there?"
"Haan?" a dazed Nikki snaps back as she finds Abhi's fingers clicking in front of her face.
"Shall we do dinner tonight? Just you and Me?" he asks, his eyes beginning to gleam happily in anticipation.
"And Me too!" Sid bursts into the room
Abhi rolls his eyes. "Not again!" he mutters under his breath.
He looks daggers at Sid. "Who asked you to come here? And, can't you hear I said only Nikki and me."
"But Nikki Bhabhi won't mind if I join you! After all I am her favourite. Right bhabhi?" he asks, a wide boyish smile on his face.
It was true, Nikki was quiet fond of her brother in law, but, right now, she was exuberant by her husband's special attention towards her. She did not want to miss this lovely opportunity. She wonders how to tell Sid, without breaking his heart.
Glancing at the two people in front of her, she notices Sid's face was dancing with mischief while Abhi's was crestfallen. She managed to catch the apprehension in his eyes as if wondering whether, once again she was going to give preference to someone else over him. But, it was only for a fleeting moment. Realising she was reading him, his expression changes to indifference.
"So I am going for dinner too!" Sid confirms.
Abhi shakes his head in annoyance.
"But.......Sid.........Abhi and I......"Nikki strutters
"with Simran!"
"Whaat?" Abhi and Nikki look perplexed at him
"I am taking Simran out to dinner," he tells them excitedly. "She agreed! I was only teasing you both," there was an impish smile on his face.
Abhi and Nikki are relieved.
*********************************
Hearing her cell phone ring, Nikki answers it.
"Where are you?"
"In the basketball court," she replies.
"I told you to wait in your cabin."
"There was nothing to do and I just felt like fresh air Abhi.
"Ok I'll be there in few minutes." He disconnects.
Nikki smiles. As Abhi got delayed, he had asked her to wait in her cabin. However, Nikki was too excited to be tied to one place. She felt so light, so happy in her heart. She wanted to be out in the open, so she ended up strolling in the basketball court. Though it was dark, she wasn't afraid today. Perhaps she was too excited to let anything affect her. She closes her eyes and stretches her arms on either side of her, enjoying the pleasant evening breeze as it blew softly against her face and hair.
Her body suddenly turns prickly sensing the presence of someone behind her. She opens her eyes wondering if it was Abhi and she spins around.
All tasks completed, Abhi exhales in relief. Atlast, he can be with Nikki.
Dashing out few last minute instructions to the nurses and receptionist on his way out, he heads towards the rear exit which led to the basketball court from the mini mart side.
"Dr. Modi," Muskaan calls him from behind.
Uff! Abhi was beginning to lose his patience. It was becoming very difficult to catch a few moments with his wife. Either, they were too busy or there are constant interruptions.
"Yes Dr. Muskaan" he replies wearily.
"Dr. Modi I need to talk to you about Mr. Khanna, the patient admitted today for peptic ulcer. Dr. Keerti has already left and Dr. Shashank will return only tomorrow morning. "
"Thank God, for a change, you are talking about a patient and not Nikki," Abhi tells her wryly. "Well what about him ? His surgery is scheduled for tomorrow right?"
"Yeah 11 am. Right now everything is under control, but, looking at his endoscopy results, I feel we need to to take some extra precaution for the night. Can I discuss it with you?"
"Ok fine, " Abhi nods. "but first lets catch Nikki. She is waiting for me. We'll discuss it then.
.
As they near the basketball, they see Nikki near the stands. She was facing them. Suddenly their eyes widen in horror as they see two men stealthily approaching Nikki from behind, with hands ready to grab her.
"Hey!" yells Abhi dashing towards them.
"Hey Stop !" Muskaan also yells out, running behind him.
Just as Nikki turned, she heard Abhi's voice. Before she realized what was happening, she was pushed against the stand by one man and another snatched her bag that was lying on the stand . Instinctively, she holds her stomach with one hand and with the other, she clamps her hand firmly on the stand, breaking the fall and managing to save herself from any injury. She then sees the two men running towards the gate.
"Are you okay Nikki?" Abhi asks worriedly as he reaches her.
"I am fine," She tells him. "Muskaan take care of her" Abhi yells as he sprints after the goons.
He knew they were heading to the rear gate of the hospital that was mostly used for loading and unloading purposes. He manages to run ahead of them, just as they reached the gates of the basketball court. He then stops and turns to confront them blocking any escape. The place was dark with barely one light. One of the goons pulls out a knife and brandishes it at Abhi.
Nikki and Muskaan watch in horror as the gleaming knife is flashed at Abhi's face.
PRECAP TO PART 32
The goons were struggling to get away from Abhi's grip.
Nikki and Muskaan can see someone come behind Abhi. It was too dark for them to see his face. However, they notice he had something like a bat in his hand.
"Abhi, watch out!" Nikki yells. But it was too late. Abhi is hit on the head. He felt as if the whole world was spinning wildly. He staggers back loosening his grip on the goons. Taking advantage, they throw a few hard punches on his face. Nikki's heart begins to sink. She can hear Muskaan calling for help, but her own voice betrays her.
He just hoped if it was a power failure, the back up generators were doing their job. "Of course, they will," he reminds himself.
Nikki too was wondering why the lights had gone off. Is it only her cabin lights or a major power failure ?
"Just imagine Abhi, if I was alone in the cabin and this happened?" She begins to shudder at the thought
"Nikki, relax! I am here with you," Abhi pacifies her, putting his arm around her. "So don't worry!"
"Yeah, Thank God, Abhi you are here with me or else I would have died," she buries her head into his chest.
"NIKKI!" Abhi snaps irritatedly. "Get a hold on yourself ! Don't say such things. It makes me me angry. Trust me. Nothing will happen. I won't let anything happen to you."
"Promise?" she asks softly, looking expectantly into his face.
Through the dim light coming from the torch, Abhi can see the fear and apprehension in her eyes. He knew she was beginning to worry on every little thing. It was normal at this stage of pregnancy.
Tenderly, he smiles at her. He tightens his left arm that was around her. Then with the other hand he slowly raises her hand to his lips and lovingly kisses it. "Promise," he confirms
Nikki was joyous. She places her head on his chest and snuggles into the warmth of his embrace. For long moments, they stand revelling in the warmth of the other. No word is being uttered.
Nikki, then tilts her head backward and looks up at Abhi. He can see the love and tenderness in her eyes. The graveness of the situation is all forgotten as they stare passionately at each other, their hearts beat rapidly, their breath fanning the other. As if in a daze, Abhi's hand reaches for her face and gently caresses her jawline . Nikki closes her eyes and lifts her face to him. He then bends his face lower till his lips were merely a brushing distance from hers. Nikki is dismayed when he stops. She feels a hot ache on her lips.
"Nikki," Abhi whispers. There is deep passion in his voice. Nikki open her eyes. She can see the intensity in his eyes. Then, burning with desire, Abhi places his lips on hers.
The lights suddenly come on startling them.
"Ah! Ah! Few minutes ago they were fighting now, they are in each other's arms." They are shocked to hear Armaan's voice.
Drawing apart they find Armaan, Riddhima and the rest of the gang watching them with amusement.
"For your kind information, your fight was getting nonsensical, so I switched off the lights, pulled the phone wires off hook and locked the door to get you to stop your fight," Armaan tells them. "See how successful we are! Right ?" he looks around at the others for confirmation. There was laughter from everyone.
Abhi and Nikki are completely flustered.
"I've said this many times before, Armaan. The hospital is not a playground" an embarrassed Abhi admonishes him feebly. He was feeling foolish, like a school kid caught in a silly act. "You know I don't like fooling around in the hospital." There was irritation in his voice.
"Haan Haan pata hai," Armaan tells him. "That is why you are behaving as if you are in your bedroom''. fighting and romancing your wife,"
Abhi darts a murderous look at him, while everyone laugh. Nikki's cheeks have now turned crimson red.
"Armaan!" She chides him. "You scared us!"
"Hey what are you complaining about?" Armaan teases her. "You had an opportunity to be in your husband's arms during working hours. With Dr. Moody you know how difficult is that! Haan, if your upset for breaking your kiss, I apologise for being a spoilsport," he tells her tongue in cheek. "Whether Dr. Moody cares or does not care, I definitely care for his reputation. Hai na ?" he winks at Abhi.
"You Dog!" Abhi flings a pen at his face and had Armaan not ducked, the pen would have hit right on target. He returns a wide grin to Abhi. There is peals of laughter in the room while Abhi and Nikki look helplessly at each other.
Finally, with the excuse of having to complete some work, Abhi quickly makes his escape. Armaan, too, says he has to collect some certificates from the office and walks out of the cabin. The others follow him. Walking in the corridor, Riddhima quietly drags Nikki to the terrace hoping to chat with her alone.
She tells Nikki she knows there is some problem between Abhi and her and wanted to know if she could do anything for them. Sensing Nikki's hesitation, she also assures that she was okay if Nikki was not comfortable in talking about it to her.
"Oh Riddhima, you know if there is any person I would confide anything to, then it is you," Nikki tells her friend.
She then relates the Park Hotel incident and all that had transpired between Abhi and her because of it.
Riddhima was aghast. She was also apologetic for bringing up the topic at the party and begins to curse herself for it. However, Nikki would not hear of it.
"If I was in your place, I would have been asking the same questions Riddhima. We are close friends. I would be equally excited to know about your experiences" Nikki explains to her.
"I think whatever happens, happens for the best. Perhaps we needed this rift ," she assures Riddhima. "It has made us realize we don't just love each other but that, our love is a much more deeper. It is strong enough to keep us one inspite of all adversities." Nikki tells her.
"I know," Riddhma smiles affectionately at her. "I can see it."
Nikki smiles back. "It has made me even more determined to stand by Abhi and not falter, inspite of all the odds," she tells her with a faraway look. "I can also see he is working hard on it. He seems to be handling it much better than what I did. Inspite of all the anger and pain, he has not thrown insults at me like I did to him!" Nikki's eyes was filling up with pain as she remembers all the bad things she threw at Abhi
Riddhima tenderly puts a consoling arm around her. "Don't worry Nikki, everything will be fine." She begins to smile impishly. "In fact I can see everything is fine. You both get so lost into each other," she teases reminding Nikki of their moment in the cabin. Nikki blushes.
Wondering where had Riddhima and Nikki vanished, Anjali, Atul and Muskaan were searching all over for them till they were directed to the terrace by the nurse.
Peeping through the tiny window of the terrace door, they overhear Riddhima telling Nikki that its impossible for Abhimanyu to be angry with her for long. It won't take long for him to realize how much he loves his wife.
"I hope so!" Nikki sighs. "I know he loves me but I am waiting for the day, my husband comes back to me, free from all anger and resentment."
The three people behind the door were shocked at their conversation.
"Looks like Dr. Modi is still upset with Nikki for that Sonali incident," Anjali tells her friends as they move away from the door and into the passage.
"Hmmmm," Muskaan and Atul mumble in agreement.
"Hey Guys, the fault was ours too and we need to rectify it," Atul tells them.
"Haan, but what can we do?" Muskaan asks
"We'll have to show Dr. Modi what a lovely wife Nikki is," Atul suggests
"How?" the girls ask him.
"We'll bring out Nikki's special qualities in front of him," Atul tells them and begins to whisper his plan.
Riddhima and Nikki were completely in dark of the new plan being hatched on the other side of the terrace door.
Finally the group decide to have dinner together.
Abhi and Nikki were unaware that every of their move every was under minute scrutiny by three pair of eyes.
While they were having dessert, Nikki asks Abhi to have the chocolate ice cream, since he wasn't haven't any dessert, but, he refuses saying he was not too fond of it.
"Just one bite!" lovingly she coaxes him holding a spoon of the ice cream to his mouth.
Abhi smiles at her persistence. Holding her hand, he takes the spoon closer to his mouth and swipes off the ice-cream from it. A satisfied Nikki smiles at him. Then taking a tissue she dabs his lips. "How Sweet!" Riddhima exclaims, exchanging smiles with Armaan. Taking the cue, Atul, Anjali and Muskaan wink at each other.
"Yes, what a loving and caring wife Nikki is!" they too exclaim excitedly. They were so loud that they were heard by the whole restaurant.
Abhi, Nikki, Armaan and Riddhima were startled by their bombastic announcement.
The three charged doctors on mission carried on their endeavours even on to the next day.
When Abhi was passing in the corridor he finds the three in deep discussion.
"Good Morning Doctors," he greets them "Is there a problem? You all look quiet tense!" His unnanounced appearance make them nervous. They shift in discomfort hoping he did not hear their conversation. Noticing them avoiding his gaze, his eyes narrow in suspicion.
At that moment, Dr. Keerti was passing with a pregnant patient. On being greeted by the patient, Abhi smiles at her and asks if everything was fine with her, to which she nods. After the two leave, Atul goes closer to Abhi.
"Dr. Modi, hasn't this Mrs Kumar gone fat," Abhi is taken aback with his question.
"That's because she is five months pregnant, Dr. Atul," he replies.
"But then Nikki is going to be in her sixth month soon," Anjali reminds him. "Yet, she hasn't put on too much weight. Except for her cute bulge, nothing else reveals her pregnancy."
Abhi looks dumfounded at them. He cannot believe his wife's anatomy is the topic of discussion here.
"Not everyone is the same," he explains to them.
"Yeah, Nikki is different and special!" they squeal loudly startling Abhi whose eyes widen in astonishment.
"Yeah I know, I know, what is there to yell?" he asks them " and why is Nikki being glorified all of a sudden ?"
"Because she is special," they tell him promptly
"But she has always been special, Have you guys noticed it only recently?"
Now it was their turn to look dumbfounded. 'Who is telling who?' they wondered. He was telling them what they are trying to tell him.
Looking at their blank expressions, Abhi shakes his head in exasperation and walks away.
Only Nikki can understand her friends! They were beyond his understanding and he wasn't even going to waste his time getting there.
Sometime in the afternoon, a doctors' meeting having just finished, the doctors begin to leave the room one by one. When Nikki reaches the door, she is stopped by Abhi.
"Nikki, please wait. I want to ask you something, give me a minute." He starts collecting his papers and putting them in a folder.
Nikki's heart is filled with tenderness as she watches him. They've hardly spoken since last night. By the time they reached home, Nikki fell asleep and when she awoke in the morning, he had already left for work. Neither did they get an opportunity to see each other at Sanjeevani as they were caught up with an extremely busy morning.
Nikki remembers, everytime she stirred into awakeness in the night, she always found Abhi's tender arms around her. A smile breaks on her face.
Watching the two, Atul Muskaan and Anjali nudge each other.
"Oye Nikki, how do you manage to stay so beautiful inspite of your pregnancy?" Muskaan asks her pulling her back into the room.
"Yeah isn't she beautiful Dr. Modi?" Anjali asks him earnestly.
"I notice that everyday Dr. Anjali," Abhi tells her sardonically. When he looks at Nikki, his eyes begin to fill with passion. "Infact, she is becoming more beautiful with every passing day," he drawls, his eyes peering intensely at her. Nikki blushes at his compliment.
"That's fine!" Atul tells him "But do you tell that to her?"
"Excuse Me?" Abhi looks bewildered at Atul.
Nikki's eyes also widen with shock.
"What I tell my wife is none of your business Dr. Atul," Abhi thunders fiercely at him.
"Guys, what is the matter with you all?" Nikki is flummoxed at the behavior of her friends. 'Why are they acting so weird?'
"Oye Nikki, don't worry yaar, we are there for you. We are only trying to remove all problems between you and your husband" Muskaan tells Nikki, lowering her tone, but it did not escape Abhi's ears.
An appalled Nikki jerks up as she looks at Abhi. She can see the colour draining from his face. His eyes narrow darkly as he stares unhappily at her.
She shakes her head in a bid to negate Muskaan's words.
"Abhi....." she mouths in despair.
"Doctors, I think you need to concentrate on your work and how to be better doctors," There was coldness in Abhi's voice. "Leave us to deal with our lives. We don't need any interference from anyone. Now please leave." He snarls at them.
The harshness in his voice and frigidity in his eyes send alarming signals to all three. They quickly hasten out of the conference room.
The room is tense, engulfed with an uneasy silence. Hands clammy, Nikki slowly wobbles towards Abhi. There was sadness and pain in his eyes.
"Abhi.........Muskaan........I....did not"
"Nikki, I would really appreciate if you could keep our problems between us and not go telling it to everyone."
"Abhi......but....I........." He raises his hand to stop her. Looking at the pleading in her eyes, he shuts his eyes as if gathering strength. He then opens it and there is softness in them.
"Look Nikki, I do understand, things haven't been good between us for the past few months. I also understand you feel the need to unburden on to someone and I am no help on that front. But, please not them!" there was pleading in his voice. "I can still understand you talking to Riddhima about it but not them. I know they are nice, they are your friends and are very fond of you, but they lack the maturity to handle their own problems and because of them, I don't want our personal life bared open to the whole world. What we have, should remain between us."
Nikki stares at him. She could not believe he was saying those words. He was not lashing angrily at her like he always did.
"Abhi...." she did not know what to say, completely at a loss for words.
"Anyway, forget all this!" He tells her shrugging it off with the shake of his head. "I've been wanting to ask you," he pauses briefly. "If you are upto it, can we go out for dinner today?"
Nikki is all the more stumped. There was no anger or bitterness, infact, it has been replaced with some kind of tenderness.
"Nikki are you there?"
"Haan?" a dazed Nikki snaps back as she finds Abhi's fingers clicking in front of her face.
"Shall we do dinner tonight? Just you and Me?" he asks, his eyes beginning to gleam happily in anticipation.
"And Me too!" Sid bursts into the room
Abhi rolls his eyes. "Not again!" he mutters under his breath.
He looks daggers at Sid. "Who asked you to come here? And, can't you hear I said only Nikki and me."
"But Nikki Bhabhi won't mind if I join you! After all I am her favourite. Right bhabhi?" he asks, a wide boyish smile on his face.
It was true, Nikki was quiet fond of her brother in law, but, right now, she was exuberant by her husband's special attention towards her. She did not want to miss this lovely opportunity. She wonders how to tell Sid, without breaking his heart.
Glancing at the two people in front of her, she notices Sid's face was dancing with mischief while Abhi's was crestfallen. She managed to catch the apprehension in his eyes as if wondering whether, once again she was going to give preference to someone else over him. But, it was only for a fleeting moment. Realising she was reading him, his expression changes to indifference.
"So I am going for dinner too!" Sid confirms.
Abhi shakes his head in annoyance.
"But.......Sid.........Abhi and I......"Nikki strutters
"with Simran!"
"Whaat?" Abhi and Nikki look perplexed at him
"I am taking Simran out to dinner," he tells them excitedly. "She agreed! I was only teasing you both," there was an impish smile on his face.
Abhi and Nikki are relieved.
*********************************
Hearing her cell phone ring, Nikki answers it.
"Where are you?"
"In the basketball court," she replies.
"I told you to wait in your cabin."
"There was nothing to do and I just felt like fresh air Abhi.
"Ok I'll be there in few minutes." He disconnects.
Nikki smiles. As Abhi got delayed, he had asked her to wait in her cabin. However, Nikki was too excited to be tied to one place. She felt so light, so happy in her heart. She wanted to be out in the open, so she ended up strolling in the basketball court. Though it was dark, she wasn't afraid today. Perhaps she was too excited to let anything affect her. She closes her eyes and stretches her arms on either side of her, enjoying the pleasant evening breeze as it blew softly against her face and hair.
Her body suddenly turns prickly sensing the presence of someone behind her. She opens her eyes wondering if it was Abhi and she spins around.
All tasks completed, Abhi exhales in relief. Atlast, he can be with Nikki.
Dashing out few last minute instructions to the nurses and receptionist on his way out, he heads towards the rear exit which led to the basketball court from the mini mart side.
"Dr. Modi," Muskaan calls him from behind.
Uff! Abhi was beginning to lose his patience. It was becoming very difficult to catch a few moments with his wife. Either, they were too busy or there are constant interruptions.
"Yes Dr. Muskaan" he replies wearily.
"Dr. Modi I need to talk to you about Mr. Khanna, the patient admitted today for peptic ulcer. Dr. Keerti has already left and Dr. Shashank will return only tomorrow morning. "
"Thank God, for a change, you are talking about a patient and not Nikki," Abhi tells her wryly. "Well what about him ? His surgery is scheduled for tomorrow right?"
"Yeah 11 am. Right now everything is under control, but, looking at his endoscopy results, I feel we need to to take some extra precaution for the night. Can I discuss it with you?"
"Ok fine, " Abhi nods. "but first lets catch Nikki. She is waiting for me. We'll discuss it then.
.
As they near the basketball, they see Nikki near the stands. She was facing them. Suddenly their eyes widen in horror as they see two men stealthily approaching Nikki from behind, with hands ready to grab her.
"Hey!" yells Abhi dashing towards them.
"Hey Stop !" Muskaan also yells out, running behind him.
Just as Nikki turned, she heard Abhi's voice. Before she realized what was happening, she was pushed against the stand by one man and another snatched her bag that was lying on the stand . Instinctively, she holds her stomach with one hand and with the other, she clamps her hand firmly on the stand, breaking the fall and managing to save herself from any injury. She then sees the two men running towards the gate.
"Are you okay Nikki?" Abhi asks worriedly as he reaches her.
"I am fine," She tells him. "Muskaan take care of her" Abhi yells as he sprints after the goons.
He knew they were heading to the rear gate of the hospital that was mostly used for loading and unloading purposes. He manages to run ahead of them, just as they reached the gates of the basketball court. He then stops and turns to confront them blocking any escape. The place was dark with barely one light. One of the goons pulls out a knife and brandishes it at Abhi.
Nikki and Muskaan watch in horror as the gleaming knife is flashed at Abhi's face.
PRECAP TO PART 32
The goons were struggling to get away from Abhi's grip.
Nikki and Muskaan can see someone come behind Abhi. It was too dark for them to see his face. However, they notice he had something like a bat in his hand.
"Abhi, watch out!" Nikki yells. But it was too late. Abhi is hit on the head. He felt as if the whole world was spinning wildly. He staggers back loosening his grip on the goons. Taking advantage, they throw a few hard punches on his face. Nikki's heart begins to sink. She can hear Muskaan calling for help, but her own voice betrays her.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
CONNECTED IN LOVE - Part 30
Part 30
Sid's nonstop chatting and funny jokes enabled Nikki to put the incident behind her for the moment. She was amused at his fascination for Simran. When he told her he wanted to marry Simran, she laughs aloud.
"You silly, first you should find out what she feels about you" she tells him giggling at his dreamy eyes.
"Really? how do I do that?" he asks.
"You could try asking her out?"
"Oh, Good idea, I'll take her to the disco."
"Na Na," Nikki makes a face having no fondness for such overcrowded places with people trampling on your foot all the time and blaring music, where one has to scream hoarse before the other person can really hear you. .
"Why don't you ask her casually for coffee or an ice cream?" she suggests.
" Oh Ice cream! I love Icecream," Sid's mouth was watering. Nikki giggles at his expression.
"Not you Silly," she slaps his forehead, "she should like icecream."
"Oh!" says Sid, realization dawning on him. "I know Simran likes ice-cream. Saw her gorging down few at the party the other day."
Nikki is amused.
Once they reached home, Abhi called to say he'd be late since Rohit, Armaan and he were catching up with dinner outside. He tells her she should sleep.
Lying in bed, Nikki was desperately trying to sleep. However, the bad dream and the parking lot incident kept flashing in front of her eyes. For some unknown reason, it was making her uncomfortable. She keeps telling herself she shouldn't be thinking about it. It could all be her imagination. She wonders if she should tell Abhi about it, but, then decides against it thinking it would only get him all worked up.
Turning on her side, she wraps her arms around a pillow hoping to find some comfort from it. But, the soft, lifeless ball of fluffiness, did not give her the warmth and protection she relished last night. She seems to be getting addicted to it. Her urges for a repeat tonight seem to have increased but she shakes her head against it. She needs to control her urges , not wanting to be a nuisance to him. Poor Guy, definitely needs to find some joy in expecting a baby," She chuckles as she recollects how taxing this pregnancy has been for him.
She can hear the bedroom door open softly, sending her heart racing. She quickly pulls the comforter over her and turning on her side, pretended to sleep. She is strong. She will not be demanding on the poor soul, she decides.
Abhi pads softly into the room till he comes and stands over her. Nikki can sense she is being scrutinized and her whole body tingles with thrills and apprehension. She feels his hand on her forehead and then the tender brush of his index finger over her cheek.
She was most tempted to reciprocate. 'Don't do this to me Abhi', she sends a silent prayer. 'Please, please.' She was trying her best not to succumb, her will was slowly weakening. The warmth of his hand on her belly overwhelmed her, making her realize how affectionately he was checking if she and the baby were fine. He mastered the art of connecting with them without the use of words.
To her relief, she finds him moving away. Hearing the shutting of the bathroom door softly, she exhales deeply. Few minutes later the sinking of the mattress beside her, announced his readiness to sleep.
In no time, he seemed to have been transported to the land of Nod. His breathing confirmed that.
"Great!" Nikki is irked. To her sleep wasn't even approaching. All kind of thoughts engulfed her mind. She wasn't able to understand if it was her hormones that were acting up, but right now all she wanted was to be held tight. The craving, the yearning had intensified so much that it made her heart ache. She'd give anything to have those arms around her. "Where is a your willpower Nikki?" she admonishes herself. All logic, contemplation, sanity tossed far far away, she sits up and switches the television on.
Abhi thought he sleepwalked into a discotheque. Letting out a string of expletives, he sits up
"What the ?" he barks, rubbing his eyes.
He cannot believe he was looking into a music channel so late in the night. He turns to look at Nikki.
"Whats your problem?" he groans.
She looks surprised at him.
"Why are you awake?" her tone had innocence. "You must be tired, Go, go back to sleep," she mollifies him.
Abhi gapes at her.
"Go to sleep?" he questions her after a few disbelieving blinks. "With this blasting music?"
"Oh sorry, sorry," she tells him apologetically. "I'll reduce the volume. Is that Ok? Fine?"
"And why aren't you sleeping?" he asks her finding it difficult to keep his eyes open.
"Oh you noticed?"
"You are so noiseless!" he taunts.
Nikki makes a face at him and continues watching the television.
"Shouldn't you be sleeping?" he growls at her, "morning you are not able to wake up. Come on switch it off" he reaches for the remote in Nikki's hand, but, she quickly moves it to her left hand.
"I can't sleep" she tells him as a matter of fact.
"Why?"
"Because........because........." she fumbles to find an answer not wanting to tell him the actual truth.
"Because.......what dammit?" he snaps
"Nothing. What is it to you?"
Abhi is exasperated. He sighs deeply.
"Nikki, for God sake. I need sleep," he pleads. "I haven't slept well the past few days and right now all that I crave is sleep."
"Ok," she tells him calmly. "When did I stop you from sleeping? You sleep. I'll use earphones if you want."
Abhi knew that no matter what he said, it would not have any impact on his obstinate wife.
Menacingly he leans forward and brings his face closer to hers. Looking at the fire in his eyes, Nikki begins to get jittery. He then moves his hand to the other side, encircling her. She begins to tilt backwards as he advances further. His eyes boring into hers, he continues to back her till his hand finds the remote. Jerking it off her, he turns and switches off the television.
"Go to Sleep!" he deliberates on every word.
Scowling at him, Nikki lies down turning on to her side, letting out a tirade of grumble.
"Nobody cares for anything. My arms are aching, my back is aching, there is no one to hold me, but who cares? The baby is restless," she puts her hand on her abdomen. "Who really cares? This stupid sleep is also not coming, but who cares? Nobody cares for anything, No one is bothered."
She was getting teary. She couldn't figure out whats gone wrong with her. She was feeling so terrible inside. She wanted to lash out at him but then she knew he was at no fault. She was feeling sorry for him. He really needed to sleep. But why is she feeling so unhappy and restless?
She continued with her ranting which were now choking into soft mumbles.
Abhi was having a hard time stifling his laughter at her nonstop whinning. " Pregnancy hormones!" he reminds himself
Nikki could hear him shift closer and curl up behind her. Slowly, his arm comes over her arm trapping it firmly, his hand slowly making way to her abdomen. His fingers seductively smoothen over her hand moving down, parting her fingers till they are properly interwined into his. Nikki's heart soars with joy.
"Sorry for breaking your misconception," he whispers seductively . "There is someone who really cares for you and the baby. Now would you please have mercy on him and go to sleep."
Nikki chuckles and closes her eyes.
From then on, Dr. Abhimanyu Modi found the perfect solution for a good night sleep. If he held wifey through the night, he was assured of a drama free night. The next few days he had a hectic time at the hospital with quiet a few emergencies reporting in. By the end of the day , his whole body was tired and tense. Yet, as much she looked forward to being held by him, he started looking forward to holding her, even more. It felt so good to have her in his arms.
On Thursday, there is a knock on the door of Nikki's cabin and a cheerful Simran enters.
"Hi Di, how are you doing?"
"Hey Sweety, thanks so much for coming."
"Don't say thanks for such a small thing Di, its my pleasure."
Nikki pulls out an album from a drawer of her desk. She points out to a picture.
"This is the picture I want enlarged. You guys have the negatives right? Please do this for me whenever you can.
"Aha, such a cute picture of Jeeju and you. Do you know, I got this photographer to specially click this picture of yours"
Nikki blushes. She recollects, at the wedding, how Abhi and she were made to stand for a family picture.
As the family members were jostling around, Abhi, who standing behind her, tenderly puts his arms around her to protect her from getting hurt. Her heart thumping with joy she looked up at him. Finding her gaze on him, he looks down, his eyes penetrating into hers. Click! Click went the camera. As everyone began to disperse, Simran tells Abhi and Nikki to stay where they were and runs across to the photographer. They look baffled at each other. His hands still around her. Before they knew it, their picture was captured again.
Nikki blushes as she looks at the picture. It was a beautiful one and she wanted it framed. She'll give Abhi a surprise by putting it up in their room.
The phone rings. Nikki answers it. "Ok I am just coming," Putting down the phone she looks at Simran.
"Sweety, can I please leave you for few minutes. I need to discuss something urgent with Dr. Keerti before she goes in for an emergency surgery. It will barely take few minutes."
"No problem Di, you carry on, I am here," Simran assures her.
When Nikki returns, she meets Abhi outside her cabin.
"Are you done for the day?" he asks her.
"Yeah almost. Why?"
"I am wrapping up too," he tells her, thankful the day was a light one. "We'll leave together."
"Yeah, okay," she nods. "In any case Simran is here. I'll just finish off with her."
"Simran is here?" Abhi smiles. "let me say Hi to her."
Nikki didn't want Abhi to know why she called Simran here and she did not find the time to warn Simran against telling Abhi about it. What if Simran blurts out the truth to him? Nikki feels jittery. She has to stop him from meeting Simran.
"Its okay, you must be busy," her hand on the knob, Nikki blocks his path by putting herself in front of the door. "I'll tell her you said Hi.
Abhi is perplexed by her action.
"But why shouldn't I tell her?"
"No!" Nikki was vehement, not budging from her place.
Abhi looks suspiciously at her. He places his hand over her hand that was holding the door knob and brings his face closer to hers.
"What are you upto now?" he murmurs softly, looking enticingly into her eyes.
Nikki gulps nervously as she finds herself being captivated by his seductive eyes. Suddenly an activity inside the cabin diverts Abhi's attention.
"Now why am I not surprised!" he exclaims. "Your favourite is here, your beloved brother in law!"
"Brother in law?" Nikki is confused. She turns and is surprised to see Sid and Simran in the cabin. They seem to be arguing with each other.
"Whats going on here?" Abhi asks, entering the cabin with Nikki standing behind him.
"Jeeju, see your brother is troubling me," Simran was almost weepy.
"What did you do to her?" Abhi asks Sid
"Nothing Bhai, I just offered to take her for ice cream, but this stuck up nose is telling me to take a hike. Arre, if she doesn't want to go, its fine, why should she insult?
"Jeeju, he said he'll make sure I will go with him, that's why I said that," Simran scowls at Sid.
"If she is not interested in going with you, how can you force her," Abhi reprimands Sid. "In any case a sweet girl like Simran will prefer going out with a decent guy, not a waster like you,"
"Excuse me, what do you mean waster?" hands on her hip, Nikki shoots at her husband. "What is wrong with Sid? Isn't he decent?"
"Ha Ha decent!" Abhi exclaims. "Whats so decent about him?"
"He decently asked her for an ice-cream. He didn't force her." Nikki tells him in support of her brother in law.
"Oh, threatening her, is not force according to you," Abhi raises an eyebrow.
"For your kind information if he dragged her then that is force."
Simran and Sid keep looking referee-like from one to another.
"Bhai, Bhabhi," Sid tries to intervene, putting himself in between them. They nudge him away and carry on with their argument.
"Whats wrong for asking a girl for an ice-cream ?" Nikki demands from her husband.
"Does he even know if she like it?
"She does, he knows it." Nikki confirms.
"Aha now the truth is out," Abhi smirks. "So you knew about this?
"Di, Jeeju, please don't fight because of us," This time Simran tries to bring peace, but the two were not paying any attention to the younger people's request.
"Yeah so what?" Nikki confronts him. "Why is it eating you?
"Eating me? Well it annoys me when you support this idiot time and again.
"Again you are calling him idiot?" Nikki scowls at him.
"He is my brother I will call him that" Abhi bends closer to her.
"Your brother and nothing to me? I won't let you say a word against him," Nikki tells him haughtily.
"Sorry Sid, I did not know that my refusing your offer will create such a big issue," Simran looks apologetically at him.
"Actually its my fault, I shouldn't have asked you in the first place after all you are from Nikki bhabhi's family," he tells her defeatedly.
"I am feeling so sad because of me, my beautiful couple are at war here," she was moved to tears.
"Don't feel sad, its not your fault. Can I do anything to help?"
" Whenever, I feel sad and depressed, I love eating ice creams."
"Can I get you one? That is if you don't mind."
"Of course I don't mind!"she tell him shyly
"Let's go," Sid tells her and they stealthily leave the room, unaware by the husband and wife who were too busy arguing.
"Oh how protective!"
"And aren't you protective of Simran?"
"She is a sweet and innocent kid."
"And Sid is also sweet and innocent. We should explain it to Simran."
"You think she'll believe that?"
"Of course. Ask her!
They turn to look at Simran and are surprised to find Sid and Simran missing.
"Arre where did these two disappear?" putting her hand on her hip, Nikki bites her finger in wonderment.
"Haan, they disappeared. Happy now?" Abhi tells her.
"Arre what did I do?"
"When I was making my brother understand who asked you to interfere?
" Calling him an idiot and you call that making him understand?
"Excuse Me! I do a much better job."
"Oh really? I can see that.!
The lights go off, there is darkness in the room.
"Abhi!" Nikki screams and runs into his arms. He protectively clasps her in them.
"Haan, Haan when the need rises, you come running into my arms,"
"I don't think I need to take permission for that'" Nikki retorts.
"WHAAT ?" Abhi was baffled.
"Er.......Er...... nothing"
"Why have the lights gone?" Abhi wonders loud.
He finds a chair and makes Nikki sit on it. "Sit here quietly. He goes to the other side of her desk and opening a drawer, pulls out the emergency torch. Handing it to her he says, "I'll be back. Nikki was nervous. She holds on to his hand.
"Where are you going Abhi? Please don't go, I am scared."
"Relax Nikki. You are better off here. I'll go out and check what happened to the lights, Okay?" he asks her.
Nikki nods her head.
Reaching the door, he is surprised to find it locked.
"How did the door get locked?" he wonders.
Outside, unnoticed by him, there is a shadow of a man who is tossing a key up and down.
With difficulty, Abhi goes near Nikki and resting partly on the table he dials into the phone.
The phone was dead.
"What's going on? He is confused.
"Abhi I am scared," her heart beating rapidly, Nikki stands up and buries her head in his chest."
"Don't be, I am there na," he consoles her taking her in his arms.
One arm around her, with the other, he digs out his cell phone from the pocket of his jeans.
"Damn, there is no signal here,"
"Abhi, what do we do?"
"Don't worry, I'll think of something. You just relax." He tried assuring her but he couldn't fathom what had happened.
PRECAP TO PART 31
"Dr. Modi, hasn't this Mrs Kumar gone fat,"
"That's because she is five months pregnant, Dr. Atul,"
"But then Nikki is going to be in her sixth month soon," Anjali reminds him. "Yet, she hasn't put on too much weight. Except for her cute bulge, nothing else reveals her pregnancy."
Abhi looks dumfounded at them. He cannot believe his wife's anatomy is the topic of discussion here.
"Not everyone is the same," he explains to them.
"Yeah, Nikki is different and special!" they squeal loudly startling Abhi whose eyes widen with astonishment.
Sid's nonstop chatting and funny jokes enabled Nikki to put the incident behind her for the moment. She was amused at his fascination for Simran. When he told her he wanted to marry Simran, she laughs aloud.
"You silly, first you should find out what she feels about you" she tells him giggling at his dreamy eyes.
"Really? how do I do that?" he asks.
"You could try asking her out?"
"Oh, Good idea, I'll take her to the disco."
"Na Na," Nikki makes a face having no fondness for such overcrowded places with people trampling on your foot all the time and blaring music, where one has to scream hoarse before the other person can really hear you. .
"Why don't you ask her casually for coffee or an ice cream?" she suggests.
" Oh Ice cream! I love Icecream," Sid's mouth was watering. Nikki giggles at his expression.
"Not you Silly," she slaps his forehead, "she should like icecream."
"Oh!" says Sid, realization dawning on him. "I know Simran likes ice-cream. Saw her gorging down few at the party the other day."
Nikki is amused.
Once they reached home, Abhi called to say he'd be late since Rohit, Armaan and he were catching up with dinner outside. He tells her she should sleep.
Lying in bed, Nikki was desperately trying to sleep. However, the bad dream and the parking lot incident kept flashing in front of her eyes. For some unknown reason, it was making her uncomfortable. She keeps telling herself she shouldn't be thinking about it. It could all be her imagination. She wonders if she should tell Abhi about it, but, then decides against it thinking it would only get him all worked up.
Turning on her side, she wraps her arms around a pillow hoping to find some comfort from it. But, the soft, lifeless ball of fluffiness, did not give her the warmth and protection she relished last night. She seems to be getting addicted to it. Her urges for a repeat tonight seem to have increased but she shakes her head against it. She needs to control her urges , not wanting to be a nuisance to him. Poor Guy, definitely needs to find some joy in expecting a baby," She chuckles as she recollects how taxing this pregnancy has been for him.
She can hear the bedroom door open softly, sending her heart racing. She quickly pulls the comforter over her and turning on her side, pretended to sleep. She is strong. She will not be demanding on the poor soul, she decides.
Abhi pads softly into the room till he comes and stands over her. Nikki can sense she is being scrutinized and her whole body tingles with thrills and apprehension. She feels his hand on her forehead and then the tender brush of his index finger over her cheek.
She was most tempted to reciprocate. 'Don't do this to me Abhi', she sends a silent prayer. 'Please, please.' She was trying her best not to succumb, her will was slowly weakening. The warmth of his hand on her belly overwhelmed her, making her realize how affectionately he was checking if she and the baby were fine. He mastered the art of connecting with them without the use of words.
To her relief, she finds him moving away. Hearing the shutting of the bathroom door softly, she exhales deeply. Few minutes later the sinking of the mattress beside her, announced his readiness to sleep.
In no time, he seemed to have been transported to the land of Nod. His breathing confirmed that.
"Great!" Nikki is irked. To her sleep wasn't even approaching. All kind of thoughts engulfed her mind. She wasn't able to understand if it was her hormones that were acting up, but right now all she wanted was to be held tight. The craving, the yearning had intensified so much that it made her heart ache. She'd give anything to have those arms around her. "Where is a your willpower Nikki?" she admonishes herself. All logic, contemplation, sanity tossed far far away, she sits up and switches the television on.
Abhi thought he sleepwalked into a discotheque. Letting out a string of expletives, he sits up
"What the ?" he barks, rubbing his eyes.
He cannot believe he was looking into a music channel so late in the night. He turns to look at Nikki.
"Whats your problem?" he groans.
She looks surprised at him.
"Why are you awake?" her tone had innocence. "You must be tired, Go, go back to sleep," she mollifies him.
Abhi gapes at her.
"Go to sleep?" he questions her after a few disbelieving blinks. "With this blasting music?"
"Oh sorry, sorry," she tells him apologetically. "I'll reduce the volume. Is that Ok? Fine?"
"And why aren't you sleeping?" he asks her finding it difficult to keep his eyes open.
"Oh you noticed?"
"You are so noiseless!" he taunts.
Nikki makes a face at him and continues watching the television.
"Shouldn't you be sleeping?" he growls at her, "morning you are not able to wake up. Come on switch it off" he reaches for the remote in Nikki's hand, but, she quickly moves it to her left hand.
"I can't sleep" she tells him as a matter of fact.
"Why?"
"Because........because........." she fumbles to find an answer not wanting to tell him the actual truth.
"Because.......what dammit?" he snaps
"Nothing. What is it to you?"
Abhi is exasperated. He sighs deeply.
"Nikki, for God sake. I need sleep," he pleads. "I haven't slept well the past few days and right now all that I crave is sleep."
"Ok," she tells him calmly. "When did I stop you from sleeping? You sleep. I'll use earphones if you want."
Abhi knew that no matter what he said, it would not have any impact on his obstinate wife.
Menacingly he leans forward and brings his face closer to hers. Looking at the fire in his eyes, Nikki begins to get jittery. He then moves his hand to the other side, encircling her. She begins to tilt backwards as he advances further. His eyes boring into hers, he continues to back her till his hand finds the remote. Jerking it off her, he turns and switches off the television.
"Go to Sleep!" he deliberates on every word.
Scowling at him, Nikki lies down turning on to her side, letting out a tirade of grumble.
"Nobody cares for anything. My arms are aching, my back is aching, there is no one to hold me, but who cares? The baby is restless," she puts her hand on her abdomen. "Who really cares? This stupid sleep is also not coming, but who cares? Nobody cares for anything, No one is bothered."
She was getting teary. She couldn't figure out whats gone wrong with her. She was feeling so terrible inside. She wanted to lash out at him but then she knew he was at no fault. She was feeling sorry for him. He really needed to sleep. But why is she feeling so unhappy and restless?
She continued with her ranting which were now choking into soft mumbles.
Abhi was having a hard time stifling his laughter at her nonstop whinning. " Pregnancy hormones!" he reminds himself
Nikki could hear him shift closer and curl up behind her. Slowly, his arm comes over her arm trapping it firmly, his hand slowly making way to her abdomen. His fingers seductively smoothen over her hand moving down, parting her fingers till they are properly interwined into his. Nikki's heart soars with joy.
"Sorry for breaking your misconception," he whispers seductively . "There is someone who really cares for you and the baby. Now would you please have mercy on him and go to sleep."
Nikki chuckles and closes her eyes.
From then on, Dr. Abhimanyu Modi found the perfect solution for a good night sleep. If he held wifey through the night, he was assured of a drama free night. The next few days he had a hectic time at the hospital with quiet a few emergencies reporting in. By the end of the day , his whole body was tired and tense. Yet, as much she looked forward to being held by him, he started looking forward to holding her, even more. It felt so good to have her in his arms.
On Thursday, there is a knock on the door of Nikki's cabin and a cheerful Simran enters.
"Hi Di, how are you doing?"
"Hey Sweety, thanks so much for coming."
"Don't say thanks for such a small thing Di, its my pleasure."
Nikki pulls out an album from a drawer of her desk. She points out to a picture.
"This is the picture I want enlarged. You guys have the negatives right? Please do this for me whenever you can.
"Aha, such a cute picture of Jeeju and you. Do you know, I got this photographer to specially click this picture of yours"
Nikki blushes. She recollects, at the wedding, how Abhi and she were made to stand for a family picture.
As the family members were jostling around, Abhi, who standing behind her, tenderly puts his arms around her to protect her from getting hurt. Her heart thumping with joy she looked up at him. Finding her gaze on him, he looks down, his eyes penetrating into hers. Click! Click went the camera. As everyone began to disperse, Simran tells Abhi and Nikki to stay where they were and runs across to the photographer. They look baffled at each other. His hands still around her. Before they knew it, their picture was captured again.
Nikki blushes as she looks at the picture. It was a beautiful one and she wanted it framed. She'll give Abhi a surprise by putting it up in their room.
The phone rings. Nikki answers it. "Ok I am just coming," Putting down the phone she looks at Simran.
"Sweety, can I please leave you for few minutes. I need to discuss something urgent with Dr. Keerti before she goes in for an emergency surgery. It will barely take few minutes."
"No problem Di, you carry on, I am here," Simran assures her.
When Nikki returns, she meets Abhi outside her cabin.
"Are you done for the day?" he asks her.
"Yeah almost. Why?"
"I am wrapping up too," he tells her, thankful the day was a light one. "We'll leave together."
"Yeah, okay," she nods. "In any case Simran is here. I'll just finish off with her."
"Simran is here?" Abhi smiles. "let me say Hi to her."
Nikki didn't want Abhi to know why she called Simran here and she did not find the time to warn Simran against telling Abhi about it. What if Simran blurts out the truth to him? Nikki feels jittery. She has to stop him from meeting Simran.
"Its okay, you must be busy," her hand on the knob, Nikki blocks his path by putting herself in front of the door. "I'll tell her you said Hi.
Abhi is perplexed by her action.
"But why shouldn't I tell her?"
"No!" Nikki was vehement, not budging from her place.
Abhi looks suspiciously at her. He places his hand over her hand that was holding the door knob and brings his face closer to hers.
"What are you upto now?" he murmurs softly, looking enticingly into her eyes.
Nikki gulps nervously as she finds herself being captivated by his seductive eyes. Suddenly an activity inside the cabin diverts Abhi's attention.
"Now why am I not surprised!" he exclaims. "Your favourite is here, your beloved brother in law!"
"Brother in law?" Nikki is confused. She turns and is surprised to see Sid and Simran in the cabin. They seem to be arguing with each other.
"Whats going on here?" Abhi asks, entering the cabin with Nikki standing behind him.
"Jeeju, see your brother is troubling me," Simran was almost weepy.
"What did you do to her?" Abhi asks Sid
"Nothing Bhai, I just offered to take her for ice cream, but this stuck up nose is telling me to take a hike. Arre, if she doesn't want to go, its fine, why should she insult?
"Jeeju, he said he'll make sure I will go with him, that's why I said that," Simran scowls at Sid.
"If she is not interested in going with you, how can you force her," Abhi reprimands Sid. "In any case a sweet girl like Simran will prefer going out with a decent guy, not a waster like you,"
"Excuse me, what do you mean waster?" hands on her hip, Nikki shoots at her husband. "What is wrong with Sid? Isn't he decent?"
"Ha Ha decent!" Abhi exclaims. "Whats so decent about him?"
"He decently asked her for an ice-cream. He didn't force her." Nikki tells him in support of her brother in law.
"Oh, threatening her, is not force according to you," Abhi raises an eyebrow.
"For your kind information if he dragged her then that is force."
Simran and Sid keep looking referee-like from one to another.
"Bhai, Bhabhi," Sid tries to intervene, putting himself in between them. They nudge him away and carry on with their argument.
"Whats wrong for asking a girl for an ice-cream ?" Nikki demands from her husband.
"Does he even know if she like it?
"She does, he knows it." Nikki confirms.
"Aha now the truth is out," Abhi smirks. "So you knew about this?
"Di, Jeeju, please don't fight because of us," This time Simran tries to bring peace, but the two were not paying any attention to the younger people's request.
"Yeah so what?" Nikki confronts him. "Why is it eating you?
"Eating me? Well it annoys me when you support this idiot time and again.
"Again you are calling him idiot?" Nikki scowls at him.
"He is my brother I will call him that" Abhi bends closer to her.
"Your brother and nothing to me? I won't let you say a word against him," Nikki tells him haughtily.
"Sorry Sid, I did not know that my refusing your offer will create such a big issue," Simran looks apologetically at him.
"Actually its my fault, I shouldn't have asked you in the first place after all you are from Nikki bhabhi's family," he tells her defeatedly.
"I am feeling so sad because of me, my beautiful couple are at war here," she was moved to tears.
"Don't feel sad, its not your fault. Can I do anything to help?"
" Whenever, I feel sad and depressed, I love eating ice creams."
"Can I get you one? That is if you don't mind."
"Of course I don't mind!"she tell him shyly
"Let's go," Sid tells her and they stealthily leave the room, unaware by the husband and wife who were too busy arguing.
"Oh how protective!"
"And aren't you protective of Simran?"
"She is a sweet and innocent kid."
"And Sid is also sweet and innocent. We should explain it to Simran."
"You think she'll believe that?"
"Of course. Ask her!
They turn to look at Simran and are surprised to find Sid and Simran missing.
"Arre where did these two disappear?" putting her hand on her hip, Nikki bites her finger in wonderment.
"Haan, they disappeared. Happy now?" Abhi tells her.
"Arre what did I do?"
"When I was making my brother understand who asked you to interfere?
" Calling him an idiot and you call that making him understand?
"Excuse Me! I do a much better job."
"Oh really? I can see that.!
The lights go off, there is darkness in the room.
"Abhi!" Nikki screams and runs into his arms. He protectively clasps her in them.
"Haan, Haan when the need rises, you come running into my arms,"
"I don't think I need to take permission for that'" Nikki retorts.
"WHAAT ?" Abhi was baffled.
"Er.......Er...... nothing"
"Why have the lights gone?" Abhi wonders loud.
He finds a chair and makes Nikki sit on it. "Sit here quietly. He goes to the other side of her desk and opening a drawer, pulls out the emergency torch. Handing it to her he says, "I'll be back. Nikki was nervous. She holds on to his hand.
"Where are you going Abhi? Please don't go, I am scared."
"Relax Nikki. You are better off here. I'll go out and check what happened to the lights, Okay?" he asks her.
Nikki nods her head.
Reaching the door, he is surprised to find it locked.
"How did the door get locked?" he wonders.
Outside, unnoticed by him, there is a shadow of a man who is tossing a key up and down.
With difficulty, Abhi goes near Nikki and resting partly on the table he dials into the phone.
The phone was dead.
"What's going on? He is confused.
"Abhi I am scared," her heart beating rapidly, Nikki stands up and buries her head in his chest."
"Don't be, I am there na," he consoles her taking her in his arms.
One arm around her, with the other, he digs out his cell phone from the pocket of his jeans.
"Damn, there is no signal here,"
"Abhi, what do we do?"
"Don't worry, I'll think of something. You just relax." He tried assuring her but he couldn't fathom what had happened.
PRECAP TO PART 31
"Dr. Modi, hasn't this Mrs Kumar gone fat,"
"That's because she is five months pregnant, Dr. Atul,"
"But then Nikki is going to be in her sixth month soon," Anjali reminds him. "Yet, she hasn't put on too much weight. Except for her cute bulge, nothing else reveals her pregnancy."
Abhi looks dumfounded at them. He cannot believe his wife's anatomy is the topic of discussion here.
"Not everyone is the same," he explains to them.
"Yeah, Nikki is different and special!" they squeal loudly startling Abhi whose eyes widen with astonishment.
Monday, March 1, 2010
CONNECTED IN LOVE - Part 29
Part 29
In the middle of the night, Nikki's blood curdling scream of his name, makes Abhi bolt up in fear. Disoriented and still trying to find his breath, he turns to look at her. In the dim light coming from her side of the table, he can see her struggling to sit up, but the heaviness of her stomach was weighing her down. Her lips were quivering, her eyes stricken with horror.
"Nikki?" he whispers, worriedly leaning over her. "What happened?"
"Abhi.." Her voice was barely audible. Somehow, she manages to partly lift herself up. Abhi meets her half-way, supporting her with one hand under her back and holding her shoulder with the other. Relieved it was him, Nikki wraps her arms around his neck, clinging on to it tightly and crying hysterically.
Abhi could feel her whole body trembling. Her breathing was coming heavily in between.
"Hush...........Hush," he rubs her back soothingly. "Looks like you had a nightmare.
"I........I........I felt a knife being pierced into my stomach." She wails, one hand instinctively going to her belly. Abhi, shakes his head consolingly and places his hand over her stomach.
"Someone was trying to kill me and the baby Abhi," a terrified Nikki clings on to his neck even more tightly and buries her head in his chest.
"Nikki, in this condition it is natural to have such nightmares. Don't worry yourself about it," he comforts her. But, Nikki was beside herself. She sobbed inconsolably.
"Nikki, calm down. Please calm down. Everything is fine." He continues to pacify her.
Gently, he pulls her up along with him and leaning over, he pours a glass of water with one hand and gives it to her.
"Here drink some water. You'll be fine." Nikki first refuses but on his insistence, gulps down a few sips.
He can see her eyelids were still droopy but fear was keeping her from sleeping.
"You are very sleepy Nikki, please go to sleep." He tells her, gently lowering her down on to the bed. Bending over her, his eyes were brimming with concern. He can see the turbulence in her eyes.
" Look, don't worry. I am here beside you," he assures. "Sleep!"
Her insides still pounding with fear, Nikki shuts her eyes hoping she is able to get some sleep. Abhi lies down on his back. Nikki, however, is unable to banish the frightful dream from her mind. Once again she opens eyes. Abhi can sense the fear, and uneasiness in her.
"Can you hold me?
"Do you want me to hold you?"
They blurt out together bringing an embarrassed smile on their faces
Looking at his outstretched and inviting arm, Nikki leans closer and lays her head on his upper arm. Bringing his other arm around, he clasps her tightly and protectively, at the same time, soothingly caressing her arm. Happy and secure. Nikki closes her eyes and within few minutes, she falls back to sleep.
Even though he was quiet tired, Abhi was finding it difficult to sleep.
A fond smile appears on his lips as he watches her sleeping peacefully, when barely few minutes ago she was all worked up. Her fingertips were lying soft on his chest and her soft whisper like breathing, sounded like music to him.
He could feel her abdomen as it lay against his hip, pinging a profound yearning in his heart, knowing that their precious life was there inside.
Nikki begins to stir. He wonders if she was waking up again, but no, she decides to make herself more comfortable and snuggles closed , now resting her head on his chest.
"Thank you wifey!" an amused Abhi's heart mutters sarcastically. "How can I ever trust you to make things easy for me!"
He was basking in the joy of holding the two lives, his most precious ones, in his arms. His heart swells with pride. He will do all he can, to see no harm comes over them. Caressing her hair tenderly with one hand and holding her abdomen with the other, he happily closes his eyes surrendering himself to sleep.
The next morning, Nikki was surprised to find her head on Abhi's chest, her arm was around his waist while her leg was over his. She colours, wondering how and when did that happen. Abhi was still holding her protectively.
She was surprised to see she was up before him, today. After a long time, she slept so fitfully.
'Perhaps it was the magic of these arms!' A contented smile plays on her lips. 'Oh what bliss! If she had her way she would have loved to lay in these arms for ever! '
She smiles once again, her fingertips playing on the fabric of the sleeveless vest. She wanted to trace her fingers on his calm face, but, knew she has to resist the temptation, lest he wakes up.
Reluctantly, she decides to move out from his arm. 'Uff what a heavy arm!' she muses, trying her best to get out, also, careful not to disturb him. Finally, with great difficulty, she manages to slip out from his grip. He stirs, mumbles something which was inaudible to her and then goes back to sleep. A warm tender feeling overtakes her watching him so blissfully relaxed.
Her eyes fall on the clock on the table at Abhi's side of the bed. Good Heavens! It was 8 o'clock and Abhi was still asleep. He never sleeps this late. He must be really tired. Her own restlessness in the nights kept him awake for most part of the nights. There is tugging in her heart watching him in such deep sleep. She did not have the heart to wake him up. But then, she also knew, if she didn't do it, he would be very upset getting late to work. 'Punctuality was his second name.' she makes a face at him. He hated being late or anyone keeping him waiting. Tenderly she puts her hand on his cheek.
"Abhi," she whispers.
"Hmmmm"
"Aren't you gonna wake up?"
"hmmmn" he mumbles sleepily.
"Abhi, please wake up!" Nikki urges
"Yeah in a while!" he mumbles, enjoying the feel of her warm hands on his face. Unconsciously, he kisses the inside of her palm and turning on his side, hits back to sleep, his cheek was resting on her hand. Nikki was tempted to let him continue with his sleep, but then she knew hell will surely break loose today.
"Abhi you'll be late its 8 o'clock"
"Yeah ok'..
"Hmmmm
WHAAAT ?" His eyes pop wide open.
He looks at her and then at the bedside clock.
"Shit ! I am late! Damn! I forgot to set the alarm." He sits up, grimacing and flexing the arm Nikki slept on. Throwing the comforter off, he jumps out of the bed.
"Abhi relax, its no big deal!"
"No big Deal?" I have a meeting with the trustees at 8.30. Please, Please do me a favour. Call Sanjeevani and tell them I am running late. Let Dr. Shashank start off the meeting" He dashes into the bathroom.
Few minutes later, he walks back into the room, wearing only jeans. He goes to the wardrobe and searches for a shirt. "Why the hell has Pushpa started putting my shirts in this wardrobe, instead of the one inside?" he grumbles. "Wastes more of my time!"
"Not mine!" Nikki thinks dreamily as she stood near the wardrobe drinking in the sight of her shirtless husband. "I just love it."
Oblivious to her reverie, Abhi asks her if she called Sanjeevani.
"No" she tells him calmly.
Abhi stops his search and raises an eyebrow.
"No? Why?" he looks confused at her.
"Because the meeting is tomorrow, not today."
"It is today."
"Was. Now it is tomorrow. There is a message on your cell. Check it." she hands over the phone to him.
"Two of the trustees are ill so they have rescheduled it for tomorrow," she explains as he begins to read the message. "Sr. Menon has sent a message to you , early this morning and then, also to me to ensure you get the message somehow."
"Oh thank Goodness!" Abhi breathes a sigh of relief.
He then continues looking into the wardrobe. His back and hair were wet. Nikki was bewildered.
"Abhi you going to go like that?"
Noting her pointing finger, Abhi shrugs. "I don't care," he tells her, finally settling for a white shirt. "I have to rush, I am late."
"Wait! Don't you, put the shirt on !" she warns him, thrusting her finger at his face. Abhi is taken aback by her sudden attack. He gapes at her with open mouth, as she walks into the bathroom and comes out with a towel.
She begins to wipe his back.
"Nikki, I am late I have no time," he parrots his protest. " I have to rush,"
"Teek hai, Teek hai, its no crime. Anybody can make mistakes and mistakes can't be undone. Besides, its not as if you do it everyday. So stop being harsh on yourself," she admonishes him continuing to wipe the drops of water, off his back.
Abhi recollects these were his exact thoughts the other night. He also recollects the conclusion he had come to. How he had decided to work on their relationship by maintaining a distance. Right now there was hardly any distance between them, he perceives. Instead, she was too close for his comfort and it is definitely not helping his stance.
Nikki completes her task and observes him through the mirror. "Thanks," he mumbles and hurriedly puts on his shirt, trying his best not to look back into the mirror , knowing only too well her eyes were peering at him from his side. He gets ready in the quickest possible way he could manage, not because he was late, but because he could not trust himself when she is this close to him.
"I must be going now." He tells her, the hyperness completely gone only to be replaced by nervousness.
"Some tea? Breakfast" Nikki asks lovingly.
That was it ! Her persistence evoked laughter from him.
"Thank you," he tells her, amusement on his face, "but I'll catch up with them at Sanjeevani," He turns towards the door but stops and turns back.
"Oh, I meant to ask you earlier," he starts off. "How are you feeling now? That was one scare you gave me last night."
"I am fine now," Nikki replies "and I am sorry about it." She lowers her eyes apologetically.
"Look don't worry about it," he tells her softly " You know such bad dreams do occur during this stage. The less you think about it, the less there are chances of it recurring again."
"Thanks Abhi," Nikki tells him gratefully
"For what?" there was surprise in his voice
"For being there for me last night." She looks adoringly into his face.
"I am always there for you !" he blurts out. His unexpected confession take them both by surprise. Feeling awkward, Abhi glances away for a brief moment.
"I think I better leave," He tells her, smiling feebly, deciding it was best to change the discussion. Nikki nods her head.
Reaching the door he ponders over something and then looks back at her. "Just a small request," His eyes begin to dance with mischief. "The next time you need my arm as a pillow remind me to take an antidote for numbness," Observing Nikki's cheeks flushing with colour, he grins and turns towards the door.
"I can always massage it for you, if you want," Nikki hadn't meant it to be loud, but her words stumped both of them. Abhi stops in his tracks and looks at her astounded.
"Er.......Er..... " she flusters awkwardly. 'Really ! where did that come from!' she wonders.
Abhi is amused at her embarrassment.
'll take a rain check on that," he tells her, a naughty smile on his lips.
Nikki colours even more
"Bye!" he mouths as he walks out.
Nikki bites her lower lip and shakes her head with a smile.
Sometime during the afternoon, just as Nikki finished her briefing with her group of her interns, she was paid a visit by her husband.
He tells her something cropped up at the New Sanjeevani site, so he was heading there and may be late reaching home in the evening.
It was 7 pm. Nikki knew she should be heading for home, but, then she wanted to complete the patients' files her interns were handling. After signing the last file, she puts down her pen, calls the reception and asked the nurse on duty to send someone to collect the files from her desk to be given to Dr. Keerti.
Her stomach was growling with hunger. Should she stop at the canteen and grab something to eat? No, she decides against it. It was already late, she better head for home. Her sweet mother in law insists on keeping fruits in the ice box of the car, so that she is able to snack whenever she is hungry. She'll eat something from there.
Walking past Abhi's cabin, she peeps inside fully aware he wasn't there. What irony! she sighs, heading towards the exit. The day she is late at work, Abhi is not around. If he was, she could have gone home with him. And if he knew she was hungry he would have surely taken her for dinner. Perhaps she could use the oppourtunity to rile him even more with Panipuri. She giggles knowing how the very word makes Abhi shudder. She loves the hassled look on his face. He was even more cute and adorable.
Lost in thoughts, she never knew when she walked out of Sanjeevani and automatically walked towards the parking lot.
The sound of soft footsteps behind, alerts her and she turns to see if it was someone she knew. But, there was no one there. She found it strange, she did hear footsteps. The tiny path towards the parking lot was dimly lit. She should have heeded Abhi's advice to get the driver to bring the car to the entrance of Sanjeevani whenever she was ready to leave.
However, she wanted to avoid the chaos at the entrance with incoming and outgoing of patients which daily took ages for cars to move ahead. Also it gave her an opportunity to walk knowing it was good for her pregnancy. But today, since she was late, she should have called Premchand.
'These are the things which annoys Abhi. She always acts first and regrets it later,' she rues.
Deciding to call the driver and she dials his number but he does not answer.
She hears the sound of a car. Ah! There seem to be someone around,' she sighs in relief. A car was exiting the car park.
"Dr. Nikita," a young man calls out, halting his car briefly. Nikki recognizes him as Anjali's patient. "Its freedom for me," he tells her happily. " I got discharged today."
"All the best," Nikki replies with a thumbs up. He smiles and drives off.
Entering the parking area, Nikki looks out for her car. There were only few cars parked and no one seemed to be around.
"Premchand" she calls out aloud, hoping the driver was hanging around the car. She dials his number on her phone but got no answer. She can hear footsteps again. She turns once more. Again, there seemed to be no one. Her heart starts beating rapidly. She can sense someone's presence. Noticing the huge cemented block which held the fence dividing the two parking lots, she wondered if anyone was behind that.
"Is anyone there?" she calls out nervously. She wondered if she should go back, but then she has come away, quiet a distance now. She should find her car. She did have a spare key in her bag. She can drive away if Premchand was not around.
She hastens her steps inside the car park. To her horror, she realizes the footsteps have increased their pace. She begins to panic. Her legs have gone jelly. She is unable to take a step forward. Her whole body breaks into goosebumps. She begins to contemplate what should she do.
She now hears the footsteps running towards her. She was perplexed. The footsteps which she heard just a few steps behind her now seem to be coming from a distance. Scared and confused, she spins around.
"Nikki Bhabhi!" Sid calls out at that very moment.
"Sid! You!" Nikki gasps, holding her chest and trying to find her breath "You scared me," she tells him partly angry. She notices Premchand was also standing with Sid.
"Bhabhi, thank God I was able to get you," Sid was also gasping with relief. "I was trying my best to catch up with you. Sister Menon told me you just left. So thought I'll take a ride with you. So sorry if I scared you!" he looks sheepishly at her.
"That's fine. But why didn't you show up when I called earlier. Why were you following me quietly. Please don't play such pranks, I don't like it and you," she bellows at Premchand. "Where were you? Why aren't you picking up your phone."
"Sorry Madam, I went to the toilet and left the phone in the car by mistake." he apologises meekly lowering his eyes.
"Bhabhi I wasn't following you, I just left Sanjeevani few minutes ago and have come running right through," Sid tells her. "I did not walk and only spotted you now.
"Whaat?" Nikki is stunned by his revelation.
"Yes Madam," Premchand confirms. " I was returning from the toilet when I saw Sid Baba running ."
Nikki did not know what to make of it. "Please lets go from here," she tells them, her whole body having turned prickly, her stomach still churning with fear.
"Henceforth, she'll get the car to pick her up from the entrance," she decides as they make their way to the car.
Sitting in the car beside Sid, Nikki is happy to have someone who is close to her. She is sure she heard footsteps close behind her. Is she imagining things? Is the nightmare making her paranoid. Oh how she wished Abhi was here. She really needed him. No matter, whatever was his mood, whether he was angry or happy, one thing was for sure, she can find comfort no where else but with him. Like last night, she was able to sleep peacefully since he held her so protectively in his arms.
"Oh Abhi I miss you!" her heart yearns for him. Feeling a thud, she places her hand on her abdomen. Her face begins to brighten up. Atleast, she can feel Abhi's presence through the baby. She smiles happily.
PRECAP TO PART 30
“Simran is here?” Abhi smiles. “let me say Hi to her.”
Nikki didn't want Abhi to know why she called Simran here and she did not find the time to warn Simran against telling Abhi about it. What if Simran blurts out the truth to him? Nikki feels jittery. She has to stop him from meeting Simran.
“Its okay, you must be busy,” her hand on the knob, Nikki blocks his path by putting herself in front of the door. “I’ll tell her you said Hi.
Abhi is perplexed by her action.
“But why shouldn’t I tell her”
“No!” Nikki was vehement, not budging from her place.
Abhi looks suspiciously at her. He places his hand over her hand that was holding the door knob and brings his face closer to hers.
“What are you upto now?” he murmurs softly, looking enticingly into her eyes.
Nikki gulps nervously as she finds herself being captivated by his seductive eyes. Suddenly an activity inside the cabin diverts Abhi’s attention.
“Now why am I not surprised!” he exclaims.
In the middle of the night, Nikki's blood curdling scream of his name, makes Abhi bolt up in fear. Disoriented and still trying to find his breath, he turns to look at her. In the dim light coming from her side of the table, he can see her struggling to sit up, but the heaviness of her stomach was weighing her down. Her lips were quivering, her eyes stricken with horror.
"Nikki?" he whispers, worriedly leaning over her. "What happened?"
"Abhi.." Her voice was barely audible. Somehow, she manages to partly lift herself up. Abhi meets her half-way, supporting her with one hand under her back and holding her shoulder with the other. Relieved it was him, Nikki wraps her arms around his neck, clinging on to it tightly and crying hysterically.
Abhi could feel her whole body trembling. Her breathing was coming heavily in between.
"Hush...........Hush," he rubs her back soothingly. "Looks like you had a nightmare.
"I........I........I felt a knife being pierced into my stomach." She wails, one hand instinctively going to her belly. Abhi, shakes his head consolingly and places his hand over her stomach.
"Someone was trying to kill me and the baby Abhi," a terrified Nikki clings on to his neck even more tightly and buries her head in his chest.
"Nikki, in this condition it is natural to have such nightmares. Don't worry yourself about it," he comforts her. But, Nikki was beside herself. She sobbed inconsolably.
"Nikki, calm down. Please calm down. Everything is fine." He continues to pacify her.
Gently, he pulls her up along with him and leaning over, he pours a glass of water with one hand and gives it to her.
"Here drink some water. You'll be fine." Nikki first refuses but on his insistence, gulps down a few sips.
He can see her eyelids were still droopy but fear was keeping her from sleeping.
"You are very sleepy Nikki, please go to sleep." He tells her, gently lowering her down on to the bed. Bending over her, his eyes were brimming with concern. He can see the turbulence in her eyes.
" Look, don't worry. I am here beside you," he assures. "Sleep!"
Her insides still pounding with fear, Nikki shuts her eyes hoping she is able to get some sleep. Abhi lies down on his back. Nikki, however, is unable to banish the frightful dream from her mind. Once again she opens eyes. Abhi can sense the fear, and uneasiness in her.
"Can you hold me?
"Do you want me to hold you?"
They blurt out together bringing an embarrassed smile on their faces
Looking at his outstretched and inviting arm, Nikki leans closer and lays her head on his upper arm. Bringing his other arm around, he clasps her tightly and protectively, at the same time, soothingly caressing her arm. Happy and secure. Nikki closes her eyes and within few minutes, she falls back to sleep.
Even though he was quiet tired, Abhi was finding it difficult to sleep.
A fond smile appears on his lips as he watches her sleeping peacefully, when barely few minutes ago she was all worked up. Her fingertips were lying soft on his chest and her soft whisper like breathing, sounded like music to him.
He could feel her abdomen as it lay against his hip, pinging a profound yearning in his heart, knowing that their precious life was there inside.
Nikki begins to stir. He wonders if she was waking up again, but no, she decides to make herself more comfortable and snuggles closed , now resting her head on his chest.
"Thank you wifey!" an amused Abhi's heart mutters sarcastically. "How can I ever trust you to make things easy for me!"
He was basking in the joy of holding the two lives, his most precious ones, in his arms. His heart swells with pride. He will do all he can, to see no harm comes over them. Caressing her hair tenderly with one hand and holding her abdomen with the other, he happily closes his eyes surrendering himself to sleep.
The next morning, Nikki was surprised to find her head on Abhi's chest, her arm was around his waist while her leg was over his. She colours, wondering how and when did that happen. Abhi was still holding her protectively.
She was surprised to see she was up before him, today. After a long time, she slept so fitfully.
'Perhaps it was the magic of these arms!' A contented smile plays on her lips. 'Oh what bliss! If she had her way she would have loved to lay in these arms for ever! '
She smiles once again, her fingertips playing on the fabric of the sleeveless vest. She wanted to trace her fingers on his calm face, but, knew she has to resist the temptation, lest he wakes up.
Reluctantly, she decides to move out from his arm. 'Uff what a heavy arm!' she muses, trying her best to get out, also, careful not to disturb him. Finally, with great difficulty, she manages to slip out from his grip. He stirs, mumbles something which was inaudible to her and then goes back to sleep. A warm tender feeling overtakes her watching him so blissfully relaxed.
Her eyes fall on the clock on the table at Abhi's side of the bed. Good Heavens! It was 8 o'clock and Abhi was still asleep. He never sleeps this late. He must be really tired. Her own restlessness in the nights kept him awake for most part of the nights. There is tugging in her heart watching him in such deep sleep. She did not have the heart to wake him up. But then, she also knew, if she didn't do it, he would be very upset getting late to work. 'Punctuality was his second name.' she makes a face at him. He hated being late or anyone keeping him waiting. Tenderly she puts her hand on his cheek.
"Abhi," she whispers.
"Hmmmm"
"Aren't you gonna wake up?"
"hmmmn" he mumbles sleepily.
"Abhi, please wake up!" Nikki urges
"Yeah in a while!" he mumbles, enjoying the feel of her warm hands on his face. Unconsciously, he kisses the inside of her palm and turning on his side, hits back to sleep, his cheek was resting on her hand. Nikki was tempted to let him continue with his sleep, but then she knew hell will surely break loose today.
"Abhi you'll be late its 8 o'clock"
"Yeah ok'..
"Hmmmm
WHAAAT ?" His eyes pop wide open.
He looks at her and then at the bedside clock.
"Shit ! I am late! Damn! I forgot to set the alarm." He sits up, grimacing and flexing the arm Nikki slept on. Throwing the comforter off, he jumps out of the bed.
"Abhi relax, its no big deal!"
"No big Deal?" I have a meeting with the trustees at 8.30. Please, Please do me a favour. Call Sanjeevani and tell them I am running late. Let Dr. Shashank start off the meeting" He dashes into the bathroom.
Few minutes later, he walks back into the room, wearing only jeans. He goes to the wardrobe and searches for a shirt. "Why the hell has Pushpa started putting my shirts in this wardrobe, instead of the one inside?" he grumbles. "Wastes more of my time!"
"Not mine!" Nikki thinks dreamily as she stood near the wardrobe drinking in the sight of her shirtless husband. "I just love it."
Oblivious to her reverie, Abhi asks her if she called Sanjeevani.
"No" she tells him calmly.
Abhi stops his search and raises an eyebrow.
"No? Why?" he looks confused at her.
"Because the meeting is tomorrow, not today."
"It is today."
"Was. Now it is tomorrow. There is a message on your cell. Check it." she hands over the phone to him.
"Two of the trustees are ill so they have rescheduled it for tomorrow," she explains as he begins to read the message. "Sr. Menon has sent a message to you , early this morning and then, also to me to ensure you get the message somehow."
"Oh thank Goodness!" Abhi breathes a sigh of relief.
He then continues looking into the wardrobe. His back and hair were wet. Nikki was bewildered.
"Abhi you going to go like that?"
Noting her pointing finger, Abhi shrugs. "I don't care," he tells her, finally settling for a white shirt. "I have to rush, I am late."
"Wait! Don't you, put the shirt on !" she warns him, thrusting her finger at his face. Abhi is taken aback by her sudden attack. He gapes at her with open mouth, as she walks into the bathroom and comes out with a towel.
She begins to wipe his back.
"Nikki, I am late I have no time," he parrots his protest. " I have to rush,"
"Teek hai, Teek hai, its no crime. Anybody can make mistakes and mistakes can't be undone. Besides, its not as if you do it everyday. So stop being harsh on yourself," she admonishes him continuing to wipe the drops of water, off his back.
Abhi recollects these were his exact thoughts the other night. He also recollects the conclusion he had come to. How he had decided to work on their relationship by maintaining a distance. Right now there was hardly any distance between them, he perceives. Instead, she was too close for his comfort and it is definitely not helping his stance.
Nikki completes her task and observes him through the mirror. "Thanks," he mumbles and hurriedly puts on his shirt, trying his best not to look back into the mirror , knowing only too well her eyes were peering at him from his side. He gets ready in the quickest possible way he could manage, not because he was late, but because he could not trust himself when she is this close to him.
"I must be going now." He tells her, the hyperness completely gone only to be replaced by nervousness.
"Some tea? Breakfast" Nikki asks lovingly.
That was it ! Her persistence evoked laughter from him.
"Thank you," he tells her, amusement on his face, "but I'll catch up with them at Sanjeevani," He turns towards the door but stops and turns back.
"Oh, I meant to ask you earlier," he starts off. "How are you feeling now? That was one scare you gave me last night."
"I am fine now," Nikki replies "and I am sorry about it." She lowers her eyes apologetically.
"Look don't worry about it," he tells her softly " You know such bad dreams do occur during this stage. The less you think about it, the less there are chances of it recurring again."
"Thanks Abhi," Nikki tells him gratefully
"For what?" there was surprise in his voice
"For being there for me last night." She looks adoringly into his face.
"I am always there for you !" he blurts out. His unexpected confession take them both by surprise. Feeling awkward, Abhi glances away for a brief moment.
"I think I better leave," He tells her, smiling feebly, deciding it was best to change the discussion. Nikki nods her head.
Reaching the door he ponders over something and then looks back at her. "Just a small request," His eyes begin to dance with mischief. "The next time you need my arm as a pillow remind me to take an antidote for numbness," Observing Nikki's cheeks flushing with colour, he grins and turns towards the door.
"I can always massage it for you, if you want," Nikki hadn't meant it to be loud, but her words stumped both of them. Abhi stops in his tracks and looks at her astounded.
"Er.......Er..... " she flusters awkwardly. 'Really ! where did that come from!' she wonders.
Abhi is amused at her embarrassment.
'll take a rain check on that," he tells her, a naughty smile on his lips.
Nikki colours even more
"Bye!" he mouths as he walks out.
Nikki bites her lower lip and shakes her head with a smile.
Sometime during the afternoon, just as Nikki finished her briefing with her group of her interns, she was paid a visit by her husband.
He tells her something cropped up at the New Sanjeevani site, so he was heading there and may be late reaching home in the evening.
It was 7 pm. Nikki knew she should be heading for home, but, then she wanted to complete the patients' files her interns were handling. After signing the last file, she puts down her pen, calls the reception and asked the nurse on duty to send someone to collect the files from her desk to be given to Dr. Keerti.
Her stomach was growling with hunger. Should she stop at the canteen and grab something to eat? No, she decides against it. It was already late, she better head for home. Her sweet mother in law insists on keeping fruits in the ice box of the car, so that she is able to snack whenever she is hungry. She'll eat something from there.
Walking past Abhi's cabin, she peeps inside fully aware he wasn't there. What irony! she sighs, heading towards the exit. The day she is late at work, Abhi is not around. If he was, she could have gone home with him. And if he knew she was hungry he would have surely taken her for dinner. Perhaps she could use the oppourtunity to rile him even more with Panipuri. She giggles knowing how the very word makes Abhi shudder. She loves the hassled look on his face. He was even more cute and adorable.
Lost in thoughts, she never knew when she walked out of Sanjeevani and automatically walked towards the parking lot.
The sound of soft footsteps behind, alerts her and she turns to see if it was someone she knew. But, there was no one there. She found it strange, she did hear footsteps. The tiny path towards the parking lot was dimly lit. She should have heeded Abhi's advice to get the driver to bring the car to the entrance of Sanjeevani whenever she was ready to leave.
However, she wanted to avoid the chaos at the entrance with incoming and outgoing of patients which daily took ages for cars to move ahead. Also it gave her an opportunity to walk knowing it was good for her pregnancy. But today, since she was late, she should have called Premchand.
'These are the things which annoys Abhi. She always acts first and regrets it later,' she rues.
Deciding to call the driver and she dials his number but he does not answer.
She hears the sound of a car. Ah! There seem to be someone around,' she sighs in relief. A car was exiting the car park.
"Dr. Nikita," a young man calls out, halting his car briefly. Nikki recognizes him as Anjali's patient. "Its freedom for me," he tells her happily. " I got discharged today."
"All the best," Nikki replies with a thumbs up. He smiles and drives off.
Entering the parking area, Nikki looks out for her car. There were only few cars parked and no one seemed to be around.
"Premchand" she calls out aloud, hoping the driver was hanging around the car. She dials his number on her phone but got no answer. She can hear footsteps again. She turns once more. Again, there seemed to be no one. Her heart starts beating rapidly. She can sense someone's presence. Noticing the huge cemented block which held the fence dividing the two parking lots, she wondered if anyone was behind that.
"Is anyone there?" she calls out nervously. She wondered if she should go back, but then she has come away, quiet a distance now. She should find her car. She did have a spare key in her bag. She can drive away if Premchand was not around.
She hastens her steps inside the car park. To her horror, she realizes the footsteps have increased their pace. She begins to panic. Her legs have gone jelly. She is unable to take a step forward. Her whole body breaks into goosebumps. She begins to contemplate what should she do.
She now hears the footsteps running towards her. She was perplexed. The footsteps which she heard just a few steps behind her now seem to be coming from a distance. Scared and confused, she spins around.
"Nikki Bhabhi!" Sid calls out at that very moment.
"Sid! You!" Nikki gasps, holding her chest and trying to find her breath "You scared me," she tells him partly angry. She notices Premchand was also standing with Sid.
"Bhabhi, thank God I was able to get you," Sid was also gasping with relief. "I was trying my best to catch up with you. Sister Menon told me you just left. So thought I'll take a ride with you. So sorry if I scared you!" he looks sheepishly at her.
"That's fine. But why didn't you show up when I called earlier. Why were you following me quietly. Please don't play such pranks, I don't like it and you," she bellows at Premchand. "Where were you? Why aren't you picking up your phone."
"Sorry Madam, I went to the toilet and left the phone in the car by mistake." he apologises meekly lowering his eyes.
"Bhabhi I wasn't following you, I just left Sanjeevani few minutes ago and have come running right through," Sid tells her. "I did not walk and only spotted you now.
"Whaat?" Nikki is stunned by his revelation.
"Yes Madam," Premchand confirms. " I was returning from the toilet when I saw Sid Baba running ."
Nikki did not know what to make of it. "Please lets go from here," she tells them, her whole body having turned prickly, her stomach still churning with fear.
"Henceforth, she'll get the car to pick her up from the entrance," she decides as they make their way to the car.
Sitting in the car beside Sid, Nikki is happy to have someone who is close to her. She is sure she heard footsteps close behind her. Is she imagining things? Is the nightmare making her paranoid. Oh how she wished Abhi was here. She really needed him. No matter, whatever was his mood, whether he was angry or happy, one thing was for sure, she can find comfort no where else but with him. Like last night, she was able to sleep peacefully since he held her so protectively in his arms.
"Oh Abhi I miss you!" her heart yearns for him. Feeling a thud, she places her hand on her abdomen. Her face begins to brighten up. Atleast, she can feel Abhi's presence through the baby. She smiles happily.
PRECAP TO PART 30
“Simran is here?” Abhi smiles. “let me say Hi to her.”
Nikki didn't want Abhi to know why she called Simran here and she did not find the time to warn Simran against telling Abhi about it. What if Simran blurts out the truth to him? Nikki feels jittery. She has to stop him from meeting Simran.
“Its okay, you must be busy,” her hand on the knob, Nikki blocks his path by putting herself in front of the door. “I’ll tell her you said Hi.
Abhi is perplexed by her action.
“But why shouldn’t I tell her”
“No!” Nikki was vehement, not budging from her place.
Abhi looks suspiciously at her. He places his hand over her hand that was holding the door knob and brings his face closer to hers.
“What are you upto now?” he murmurs softly, looking enticingly into her eyes.
Nikki gulps nervously as she finds herself being captivated by his seductive eyes. Suddenly an activity inside the cabin diverts Abhi’s attention.
“Now why am I not surprised!” he exclaims.
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