Noticing Abhi smiling, Nikki remembers a smiling Abhi during the time of their wedding. Happiness and bliss was glowing on his face.
Though Abhi-Nikki were not too keen on going through all the wedding customs, they were coerced into it, by their family and friends.
At the mehndi ceremony, Rachna takes Nikki's hand and with the mehndi tube designs a beautiful A on her palm. Seeing it, Riddhima squeezes Nikki's arm while Muskaan and Anjali smile.
"Now I officially hand my Abhi over to you," Rachna smiles fondly at her.
Nikki's eyes begin to sting with tears. She never fancied these ceremonies before. However, going through it today, she realized how emotionally impactful it was. Looking at the letter A in her palms, happiness and pride fill up her eyes. She looks at Abhi standing in a corner observing them.
With a raise of an eyebrow, he looks questioningly at her.
Nikki swallows a lump down her throat and smiles at him.
Noticing Abhi's eyes fixed on Nikki, Padma and Shyla go to him.
"Stare as much as you want at her because after today you'll see her only at the wedding mandap." Padma whispers at him
"Wh'.Whaat?" Abhi was bewildered.
"Yes, they say you can't see the bride after she has put the bridal mehndi on her hands." Shyla explains
"How can it be? I don't buy that." Abhi refutes.
"Rachna, do explain to your son the custom of not seeing the bride after the mehndi," Padma tells her, dragging Abhi to where Rachna, Nikki and the other girls were sitting.
Armaan and Atul also join them
"Yes Beta, its an age old custom," an amused Rachna tells him.
"But Ma you know I don't believe in these customs.'
"But WE DO ! Padma says firmly. "custom is a custom . "Don't think it's a cake walk to get married."
"Yeah," Shyla quips "You can enjoy your married life, let us enjoy your wedding."
"B'But'" an agitated Abhi tries to butt in.
"Armaan, Atul take him away and all of you," Padma says with a twinkle in her eye pointing at Armaan, Atul, Muskaan, Anjali and Riddhima "all of you, will ensure they will not be together today till they meet at the mandap.
"Yes Maam," Armaan, Atul, Muskaan and Anjali confirm in unison.
All the ladies smile in amusement at Abhi's crestfallen face.
"Do you remember doing something like this at our mehndi?" Armaan whispers into Abhi's ears. "That time you had fun at my expense, now its time to return the favour my friend, Chal," patting Abhi's chest, he drags him out.
True to their promise to Padma, like soldiers on a mission, the interns did all they could, to keep Abhi and Nikki apart. Whenever Abhi spotted Nikki standing alone, he would go next to her only to be interrupted by someone. Frustrated at not being able to exchange even a word with Nikki, an upset Abhi leaves the room.
Going to the verandah, he stares out into the dark sky, like he always does , when he feels down and lonely. He didn't know how long he stood there till the smell of mehndi combined with the sweet smell of perfume began to intoxicate his senses. Hands beautiful designed by mehndi are slowly brought up before his eyes. The feel of her chin digging into his shoulder blade and the touch of her body leaning against him overwhelms him completely bringing a smile to his face.
"See I have captured you in my palms." Nikki whispers indicating to the alphabet of his name.
With a smile spreading on his face, he holds her palms and brings it closer to his face. He then kisses the letter on both her palms. Nikki's stomach summersaults in pleasure.
"Would love to stay captured by you always." He says.
Nikki smiles. Abhi looks lovingly at her.
"So happy you came," he tells her fondly. "The moment someone mentions about keeping us apart, I begin to get frightened."
Five amused pair of eyes are stealthily watching them.
"Really Doctor Sahab" Nikki teases, "its just a matter of two days, tomorrow is the haldi ceremony and thereafter is the wedding. So can't you wait till then ?"
"No its very difficult to wait anymore Nikki," he tells her taking her in his arms.
"By the way, how did you manage to escape your bodyguards?" he asks her "Where are they?"
"WE ARE HERE!" coming out of their hiding, the five of them yell in unison.
Abhi slaps his head while Nikki puts her hand on her mouth to hide her smile.
"Be happy, we gave you both these few moments ," Armaan tells Abhi who is rolling his eyes in frustration.
"Nikki Beti," Muskaan says musically. "say a sweet bye to your future husband and tell him you'll meet him at the mandap,"
"Haan, Haan,"Abhi shakes his head. "Got the message,"
Everyone laugh.
**********************
The three girls look with amazement at the stunning bride standing in front of the mirror.
Dressed in a designer soft pastel pinkish lehenga with fine intricate gold work spread all over, adorned with simple yet elegant jewellery, she looked truly like a princess.
"Nikki, today Dr. Modi is going to be complete goner when he sees you," Anjali tells her
"Yeah Nikki, Abhimanyu is going to be a slave of yours for life," Riddhima agrees, as she and Muskaan put the bridal chunni over Nikki's head.
"Good for you Nikki, atleast you have the power to get the great Dr. Modi willingly become a slave," she teases her.
With tears in his eyes, Ajay Malhotra watches his Princess, looking so alluringly beautiful.
Noticing him, Riddhima says, "Nikki, we'll be back," and making signs to the others, they leave the room.
Ajay moves closer to Nikki. He stands speechless.
"I have no words to express anything My Princess" he says moist eyed. "May you always look as beautiful and happy as you do today." He chokes as he puts his hand over her head.
With tears in her eyes, Nikki buries her head in his chest.
***********************************
True to the prediction of the girls, Abhimanyu Modi was a mass of nerves as he watched Nikki being led towards the mandap.
Every step she took towards him, he felt he was being pulled in by a huge tidal wave and then drowned under its unmatchable power.
"Now do you realize what kind of turbulence takes over you when they stand there looking so gorgeous," Armaan whispers to him. "Now close your mouth and sit down. Do you want to run away or be imprisoned for life?
Eyes still fixed on Nikki, Abhi mumbles,
"Imprisonment has now become a necessity for my survival."
When Nikki is seated next to him at the mandap, Abhi quietly moves his hand beneath the layers of cloth and touches Nikki's hand. Squeezing it gently he smiles at her. Glancing shyly at him she smiles back.
After the wedding rites were completed, the couple were congratulated by family and friends.
"Now that I have got the licence, I hope now you have no problem if I stay with Nikki, Muskaanji ?" Abhi teases Muskaan when she wishes him.
Everyone watch in amusement.
"Sun Modi, Now, you are allowed to be stuck only to Nikki. If you go for anyone else, I'll kill you," she warns him.
"Jee Sasuma" Abhi bows meekly as everyone laugh.
**************************
After completing all the required wedding rituals and customs, the group finally move to the hotel suite Abhi and Nikki were staying that night.
They refuse to leave Abhi and Nikki, threatening to stay with them by taking their favourite position in the room to spend the night. Finally after all the teasing and ragging, they leave.
After seeing them off, when Abhi enters the beautifully decorated dimly lit room he finds Nikki standing by the window. He goes up behind her and encircles his arms around her. Burying his face in her hair, he whispers, "How are you doing Dr. Mrs. Modi?"
The reality of her new status brings a smile on Nikki's face.
"Pretty Ok, Doctor," she tells him, partially turning sideways and holding his face with one hand.
"Hmmmn. Well, here is something for you" He pulls out a little box, beautifully gift wrapped in a silver paper, from the pocket of his sherwani and hands it to her.
"Abhi what is it ?" Nikki asks excitedly.
"Open it," he tells her , once again pulling her into his arms as he encircles her waist , watching her face, as he rests his chin on her tiny shoulder.
As Nikki opens it, she gasps in excitement as she looks down at the beautiful diamond cuff sized bracelet. Her eyes sparkle with joy.
"Oh My God, Abhi this is so so beautiful. I love it. Thank you so much"
"My pleasure." Abhi drawls
Nikki notices a tiny card lying inside the box.
She was about to pick it up when Abhi says "Na, Na, not now."
Nikki looks perplexed at him. He picks up the bracelet from the box and as Nikki leans back into his chest, he puts it on her wrist. After clasping it firmly, he says "Now you can read it."
Smiling at him, Nikki opens the card and reads
Welcome to my World, My Darling Wife
Have clasped you in my life forever.
Tears of joy fill up her eyes. She turns around and embraces him tightly, clinging on to his neck.
"Love you Abhi,"
Abhi smiles.
"I love you too," he replies.
After few moments, Nikki pulls away from him and looks adoringly at him.
"Well Doctor, I have something for you too"
"Really?" Abhi raises his eyebrow "And what is that?"
"Its under the pillow out there," she points towards it.
"I hope Riddhima, put it there," she mumbles to herself.
Holding her hand, Abhi takes her along to the bed. As they sit down, Abhi pulls out a gift wrapped book sized box. Releasing the ribbon, he opens the box and he finds a picture frame made of heavy-weight glass with bevelled edges on all sides. It had a beautiful picture of them, Abhi holding her from behind and she looking upto into his eyes with one hand holding his face. On the side of the picture, few words were embossed on the glass.
Abhi reads
Hubby Dearest
As we adventure in life together
The pleasures and delights have only just begun
As we face life together
I commit to be by your side
Handling the joys and sorrows
And whatever becomes of tomorrow.
Love
Your Nikki
A smile spreads on Abhi's face. He pulls her towards him and says, "Thank you. Its wonderful."
Nikki says "My pleasure." They both smile.
Putting the frame carefully on the bedside table, Abhi then looks at Nikki and says,
"Oh Nikki, I can't believe we are finally married"
"Me too," Nikki nods.
"Pinch me," Abhi tells her "I hope I am not dreaming, go ahead, pinch me."
Nikki pinches him. Her nail accidentally digs into his arm.
"Owww," Abhi is taken aback.
" Oops, I am so sorry Abhi, didn't mean that to happen." Feeling miserable, Nikki rubs his arm.
Abhi fakes anger . He forces her back onto the bed. Then taking her hands in his, he pushes them on either side of her face and threateningly looms over her. He then slowly entwines his fingers into hers and bringing his face closer to hers .
"Now you will have to pay for this.." he whispers seductively
Nikki smiles.
"Do you hear me complaining ?" she tells him tongue in cheek.
Abhi smiles at her impishness and bends his lips closer till they clamp down on hers. Consumed by the fire of his kisses, Nikki wraps her arms around him tightly.
**********************
There was excitement in the air for the next few days as family and friends were in a celebratory mood to honour the two newly wedded couples. Finally, with heavy hearts, Abhi and Nikki bade goodbye to their families.
"My princess is now in your hands Abhi," Ajay Malhotra tells Abhi.
"Not to worry Sir, she is my Life," Abhi assures him. Ajay hugs Abhi and thumps him on the back.
Next day it was time for Rachna Modi to leave.
"I wish you would stay for a longer time," Nikki tells her mother in law fondly.
"I could but I won't," Rachna tells her lovingly, holding Nikki's chin. "You both are starting a new life together and need some time for yourselves. This is the time when you get to understand each other better. When you are well settled, I'll come and stay for a long, long time. Then perhaps you'll crib, Hai Rabba," she puts her hand on her forehead, "when is my mother-in-law going to leave."
They burst out laughing.
Then with tears filling up her eyes, Rachna says, "I hope you both have a wonderful life together Nikki. My Abhi deserves lots of happiness and his happiness is only you. Don't let anyone come in between you. Stand firmly together and welcome people in your lives. The only person allowed to come between you is that little someone." She smiles as she sees Nikki turning red. "But even for that , take your time. Be in no hurry."
Nikki's heart is filled with love and admiration for her mother in law. She realizes where Abhi's practical thinking comes from.
"Yeah but if that someone is in a hurry, you can't do anything much about it," Rachna winks at her.
Nikki rubs her stomach gently as her mother-in-law's words ring in her ears. She slowly glances at Abhi and finds him trying to concentrate on the road ahead.
Yes, that little someone is in between holding them together.
to be continued.....
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Thursday, December 10, 2009
CONNECTED IN LOVE - PART-4
Driving on further, Abhi recollects how the next two weeks passed off in a frenzy of activities.
His mother was coming down from London for the wedding and he also had the most worrying task of meeting his future father in law.
For the first time in his life, Abhi was nervous of meeting a man. He knew Nikki doted on her father even though she hardly stayed with him.
" While I was schooling Mom and Papa divorced. Since Papa used to travel a lot for work, I was given in my mother's custody," she explained one day to Abhi. " Since Mom was bitterly against Papa she would reduce our meetings. Eventually Papa married a nice Spanish lady Shyla and settled in Spain.
Whenever I get a little long leave, I pay them a visit. I will always be Papa's little princess. I could tell he was never happy with the guy friends I hung around with even though I was never romantically involved with any." She sees Abhi breathe a sigh of relief and smiles.
"Even thouhg, He always taught me to take my own decisions ," Nikki continued, " I guess like all fathers, he is a little wary of the kind of guy, his darling daughter would eventually choose one day. Whether, he likes you or not, it will not change my decision to marry you, but, I really hope he does like you. I love you both and want you to get along with each other. She smiles expectantly.
For her sake, Abhi also hoped his to be father in law likes him.
The D-Day arrived. At Nikki's place, Abhi was standing face to face with the tall, good looking, salt and peppered haired, Ajay Malhotra.
"Are you sure you want to marry my daughter?" he asks Abhi, sizing him up and down.
Taking Nikki's hand lovingly in his, Abhi says, "Yes, Sir."
Going closer to Abhi, Ajay Malhotra narrows the distance between them.
"You know my daughter can be quiet temperamental at times."
"Papa?" an indignant Nikki tries to butt in.
"What if she runs away from you. What would you do Dr. Abhimanyu Modi?" there was a challenge in his voice.
Abhi looks firmly into his eyes.
"Well Sir, I will find her and bind her in chains forever."
"Abhi?" Nikki is aghast.
There is a deafening silence in the room. The two men look unflinchingly into the other's eyes.
A slight smile slowly creeps on Ajay Malhotra's face.
"I am glad my daughter is marrying you, Abhimanyu" he tells Abhi extending his hand out to him.
"I am glad too Sir," Abhi smiles shaking his hand firmly.
Nikki couldn't fathom what their little their exchange was all about.
'A future son-in-law telling his father-in-law how badly he would treat his most beloved daughter and the father approves ?' Open mouth she gapes at the two men as they smile and thump each other.
"Dinner is ready!" Shyla announces.
Nikki tells Abhi and Shyla to proceed to the dining room while she has a few words with her father.
"What was that Papa?" she demands
"What are you talking about ?" Ajay Malhotra was nonchalant
"You were always very keen I should marry someone who would love and care for me'"
"You think Abhimanyu doesn't love and care for you?" With the raise of an eyebrow her father questions
"No he does Papa, but how could you approve after all that he told you?
"You mean I shouldn't approve of him?"
"Uffo, why are you twisting my words Papa?" Nikki was annoyed " I mean he didn't say the right thing''I mean '.." she didn't know how to explain.
Ajay Malhotra smiles.
He puts his hand lovingly around his daughter's shoulder.
"When you were born, the first time you opened your tiny eyes and smiled at me, you took my heart away. From then I always wanted you to be protected and loved and there was always this fear that no man could ever love and protect you except for me. For someone to love you so much, he has to be prepared to face any kind of situations, even walk barefoot on a bed of nails.
After years of worrying about the man you would choose to be your husband, my fears vanished today, when I looked into Abhimanyu's eyes. He is not afraid of facing any situation Nikki. He will not necessarily say the right things, he'll find ways to do them right too. No matter what storms come into your lives, he'll confront it bravely and yet will always love and protect you. Marrying him is the best decision you've taken in your life."
She sees tears of happiness and pride in her father's eyes. Her eyes too brim with tears. He pulls her into his arms. As he protectively holds her, Nikki sobs bitterly into his chest.
She realizes the depth of love the two men have for her. She chokes with happiness.
Sent by Shyla to call them, Abhi knocks on the door and enters slowly. They did not hear him enter.
Watching Father and Daughter, sharing an emotional moment, Abhi's eyes moistens. He quietly leaves the room.
**************************
Nikki was nervously waiting for Abhi and his mother to arrive.
"Calm Down Nikki," Ajay and Shyla would tell Nikki on and off, as she paced about nervously.
Finally, the doorbell rings. Nikki has butterflies in her stomach.
Ajay ushers Abhi and his mother in.
Rachna Modi was a simple yet elegant lady, stylishly clad in a pastel chiffon saree with a string of beads around her neck.
After Abhi finishes the round of introductions, she goes over to Nikki and smiles at her.
"Hmmmmm, I see Abhi was not wrong at all," She smiles at her. "You are as lovely as Abhi kept telling me. I am so happy to meet you."
She hugs Nikki warmly taking away all her fears. Abhi smiles happily.
By the end of the evening, Rachna and Nikki got along like House on Fire. At times Abhi would be the butt of their jokes. He felt like an intruder between them.
************************
On the work-front, Abhi was highly stressed. Financiers who verbally approved of the project, would suddenly back off. The board sent him a letter saying that if he was unable to find the required finance for the project by next month, the project would be scrapped. Abhi was thoroughly broken from inside. He had put in so much of efforts in the project and just cannot bear to see it being scrapped.
Looking at Nikki's exuberance and excitement about the wedding, he did not want to spoil things for her. He tried to maintain a smiling face whenever he was with her.
His mother kept scolding him for not doing much about the wedding. The day would arrive soon.
Sitting in the lawn, emotionally stressed about the project and preparing for the wedding, he was staring blankly ahead of him.
A soft hand tenderly caresses his face. He closes his eyes basking in the lovely sensation of that touch. He holds the hand and looks up at the face looking adoringly at him.
Seeing the turbulence lurking in his eyes, her expressions changes to worry
"Abhi, what happened? Are you okay?" Nikki asks concernedly
"I am fine," he tries to assure her with a feeble smile.
"No, you are not" Nikki tells him firmly. "I have been noticing for the past few days, you are not yourself, you are completely distracted. Whats the problem Abhi, tell me?"
"Its nothing Nikki," Abhi abruptly stands up and turns his face away.
Nikki gently holds his arm.
"Abhi, please tell me. We are getting married now and you shouldn't be hiding things from me."
"Nikki, I am not hiding anything,"
"Then tell me the truth or else I'll think you are not happy about marrying me," Nikki begins to sulk.
After a lot of coaxing, Abhi tells her about not getting financiers for the project and the deadline for it."
Nikki is saddened. She knew how deep Abhi's heart was into the project.
With a heavy heart, she puts a hand gently on his face.
"Do you want to postpone the wedding?" she asks him softly.
Deeply touched, by her words, Abhi felt a piercing pain in his heart. He knew how excited she was about the wedding. His eyes begin to glisten. Taking her hand, he raises it to his lips.
"No, Sweetheart !" kissing her palm, he tells her fondly. "Come what May, we will get married as scheduled ."
Behind the tears in her eyes, he can see glimpses of happiness in them.
Abhi smiles emotionally at her.
"But, we cannot go ahead with the honeymoon, right now."
Nikki nods her head understandingly.
Taking her in his arms, he says, "let me find the finance for the project and then we'll go on a long, long, long honeymoon."
He smiles mischievously at her.
Blushing, Nikki playfully punches him on the chest.
Watching them from the window, Rachna smiles tearfully. She misses her husband, having lost him in a car accident, five years ago. However, she was sure he watching them from above and will be so happy that their son finally found the right life partner.
"God Bless You Both!" she whispers and draws the curtains.
*************************
For his side of wedding preparations, Armaan came to Abhi's rescue.
"I just went through it all," Armaan tells him. "So I know better."
"Also, Nikki is my best friend, so its my duty to see she has a proper groom for the wedding. Leave it to you, pata nahin, what you will do." he taunts Abhi.
"Haan, Haan, Armaan Dude, Jai Ho !" Abhi returns sarcastically.
"You take care of your project, while Atul and me will co-ordinate with Aunty and handle the wedding preparations at your end."
Abhi found it difficult to believe, Armaan and he, who at one point of time, could not see eye-to-eye with each other, have now developed a comfortable comradeship.
Driving the car, a smile appears on Abhi's lips. For a complete Loner, in few days, he had achieved so much then, an open hearted and much needed welcome from his future father in law, an understanding future wife and a Foe-turned-Friend. The Gods were kind to him !
To be continued.
His mother was coming down from London for the wedding and he also had the most worrying task of meeting his future father in law.
For the first time in his life, Abhi was nervous of meeting a man. He knew Nikki doted on her father even though she hardly stayed with him.
" While I was schooling Mom and Papa divorced. Since Papa used to travel a lot for work, I was given in my mother's custody," she explained one day to Abhi. " Since Mom was bitterly against Papa she would reduce our meetings. Eventually Papa married a nice Spanish lady Shyla and settled in Spain.
Whenever I get a little long leave, I pay them a visit. I will always be Papa's little princess. I could tell he was never happy with the guy friends I hung around with even though I was never romantically involved with any." She sees Abhi breathe a sigh of relief and smiles.
"Even thouhg, He always taught me to take my own decisions ," Nikki continued, " I guess like all fathers, he is a little wary of the kind of guy, his darling daughter would eventually choose one day. Whether, he likes you or not, it will not change my decision to marry you, but, I really hope he does like you. I love you both and want you to get along with each other. She smiles expectantly.
For her sake, Abhi also hoped his to be father in law likes him.
The D-Day arrived. At Nikki's place, Abhi was standing face to face with the tall, good looking, salt and peppered haired, Ajay Malhotra.
"Are you sure you want to marry my daughter?" he asks Abhi, sizing him up and down.
Taking Nikki's hand lovingly in his, Abhi says, "Yes, Sir."
Going closer to Abhi, Ajay Malhotra narrows the distance between them.
"You know my daughter can be quiet temperamental at times."
"Papa?" an indignant Nikki tries to butt in.
"What if she runs away from you. What would you do Dr. Abhimanyu Modi?" there was a challenge in his voice.
Abhi looks firmly into his eyes.
"Well Sir, I will find her and bind her in chains forever."
"Abhi?" Nikki is aghast.
There is a deafening silence in the room. The two men look unflinchingly into the other's eyes.
A slight smile slowly creeps on Ajay Malhotra's face.
"I am glad my daughter is marrying you, Abhimanyu" he tells Abhi extending his hand out to him.
"I am glad too Sir," Abhi smiles shaking his hand firmly.
Nikki couldn't fathom what their little their exchange was all about.
'A future son-in-law telling his father-in-law how badly he would treat his most beloved daughter and the father approves ?' Open mouth she gapes at the two men as they smile and thump each other.
"Dinner is ready!" Shyla announces.
Nikki tells Abhi and Shyla to proceed to the dining room while she has a few words with her father.
"What was that Papa?" she demands
"What are you talking about ?" Ajay Malhotra was nonchalant
"You were always very keen I should marry someone who would love and care for me'"
"You think Abhimanyu doesn't love and care for you?" With the raise of an eyebrow her father questions
"No he does Papa, but how could you approve after all that he told you?
"You mean I shouldn't approve of him?"
"Uffo, why are you twisting my words Papa?" Nikki was annoyed " I mean he didn't say the right thing''I mean '.." she didn't know how to explain.
Ajay Malhotra smiles.
He puts his hand lovingly around his daughter's shoulder.
"When you were born, the first time you opened your tiny eyes and smiled at me, you took my heart away. From then I always wanted you to be protected and loved and there was always this fear that no man could ever love and protect you except for me. For someone to love you so much, he has to be prepared to face any kind of situations, even walk barefoot on a bed of nails.
After years of worrying about the man you would choose to be your husband, my fears vanished today, when I looked into Abhimanyu's eyes. He is not afraid of facing any situation Nikki. He will not necessarily say the right things, he'll find ways to do them right too. No matter what storms come into your lives, he'll confront it bravely and yet will always love and protect you. Marrying him is the best decision you've taken in your life."
She sees tears of happiness and pride in her father's eyes. Her eyes too brim with tears. He pulls her into his arms. As he protectively holds her, Nikki sobs bitterly into his chest.
She realizes the depth of love the two men have for her. She chokes with happiness.
Sent by Shyla to call them, Abhi knocks on the door and enters slowly. They did not hear him enter.
Watching Father and Daughter, sharing an emotional moment, Abhi's eyes moistens. He quietly leaves the room.
**************************
Nikki was nervously waiting for Abhi and his mother to arrive.
"Calm Down Nikki," Ajay and Shyla would tell Nikki on and off, as she paced about nervously.
Finally, the doorbell rings. Nikki has butterflies in her stomach.
Ajay ushers Abhi and his mother in.
Rachna Modi was a simple yet elegant lady, stylishly clad in a pastel chiffon saree with a string of beads around her neck.
After Abhi finishes the round of introductions, she goes over to Nikki and smiles at her.
"Hmmmmm, I see Abhi was not wrong at all," She smiles at her. "You are as lovely as Abhi kept telling me. I am so happy to meet you."
She hugs Nikki warmly taking away all her fears. Abhi smiles happily.
By the end of the evening, Rachna and Nikki got along like House on Fire. At times Abhi would be the butt of their jokes. He felt like an intruder between them.
************************
On the work-front, Abhi was highly stressed. Financiers who verbally approved of the project, would suddenly back off. The board sent him a letter saying that if he was unable to find the required finance for the project by next month, the project would be scrapped. Abhi was thoroughly broken from inside. He had put in so much of efforts in the project and just cannot bear to see it being scrapped.
Looking at Nikki's exuberance and excitement about the wedding, he did not want to spoil things for her. He tried to maintain a smiling face whenever he was with her.
His mother kept scolding him for not doing much about the wedding. The day would arrive soon.
Sitting in the lawn, emotionally stressed about the project and preparing for the wedding, he was staring blankly ahead of him.
A soft hand tenderly caresses his face. He closes his eyes basking in the lovely sensation of that touch. He holds the hand and looks up at the face looking adoringly at him.
Seeing the turbulence lurking in his eyes, her expressions changes to worry
"Abhi, what happened? Are you okay?" Nikki asks concernedly
"I am fine," he tries to assure her with a feeble smile.
"No, you are not" Nikki tells him firmly. "I have been noticing for the past few days, you are not yourself, you are completely distracted. Whats the problem Abhi, tell me?"
"Its nothing Nikki," Abhi abruptly stands up and turns his face away.
Nikki gently holds his arm.
"Abhi, please tell me. We are getting married now and you shouldn't be hiding things from me."
"Nikki, I am not hiding anything,"
"Then tell me the truth or else I'll think you are not happy about marrying me," Nikki begins to sulk.
After a lot of coaxing, Abhi tells her about not getting financiers for the project and the deadline for it."
Nikki is saddened. She knew how deep Abhi's heart was into the project.
With a heavy heart, she puts a hand gently on his face.
"Do you want to postpone the wedding?" she asks him softly.
Deeply touched, by her words, Abhi felt a piercing pain in his heart. He knew how excited she was about the wedding. His eyes begin to glisten. Taking her hand, he raises it to his lips.
"No, Sweetheart !" kissing her palm, he tells her fondly. "Come what May, we will get married as scheduled ."
Behind the tears in her eyes, he can see glimpses of happiness in them.
Abhi smiles emotionally at her.
"But, we cannot go ahead with the honeymoon, right now."
Nikki nods her head understandingly.
Taking her in his arms, he says, "let me find the finance for the project and then we'll go on a long, long, long honeymoon."
He smiles mischievously at her.
Blushing, Nikki playfully punches him on the chest.
Watching them from the window, Rachna smiles tearfully. She misses her husband, having lost him in a car accident, five years ago. However, she was sure he watching them from above and will be so happy that their son finally found the right life partner.
"God Bless You Both!" she whispers and draws the curtains.
*************************
For his side of wedding preparations, Armaan came to Abhi's rescue.
"I just went through it all," Armaan tells him. "So I know better."
"Also, Nikki is my best friend, so its my duty to see she has a proper groom for the wedding. Leave it to you, pata nahin, what you will do." he taunts Abhi.
"Haan, Haan, Armaan Dude, Jai Ho !" Abhi returns sarcastically.
"You take care of your project, while Atul and me will co-ordinate with Aunty and handle the wedding preparations at your end."
Abhi found it difficult to believe, Armaan and he, who at one point of time, could not see eye-to-eye with each other, have now developed a comfortable comradeship.
Driving the car, a smile appears on Abhi's lips. For a complete Loner, in few days, he had achieved so much then, an open hearted and much needed welcome from his future father in law, an understanding future wife and a Foe-turned-Friend. The Gods were kind to him !
To be continued.
CONNECTED IN LOVE - PART-3
Noticing Nikki's eyes on him, Abhi turns towards her.
"Are you okay?" he asks with concern. "If you are tired, we could stop for a while."
"No, I am fine." Nikki nods as she pushes her head back into the headrest of her seat and closes her eyes.
"How old is the baby?" Abhi was eager to know.
"14 weeks," putting her hand on her stomach, Nikki informs him.
"14 weeks." Abhi is elated . "Our baby is 14 weeks old'. This means' means.."
His thoughts wander off to Armaan and Riddhima's wedding day.
The first half of the day Abhi was busy with work and then later, he went over to Armaan's to help him. The girls were busy helping Riddhima.
Later on the gang then went over to decorate the hotel room, that Armaan and Riddhima were to stay that night. Abhi noticed Nikki was not with Muskaan and Anjali.
"Riddhima is too nervous and needs Nikki by her side all the time." Muskaan informs him. " So you will have to do without your Nikki today." Disappointed yet understanding, Abhi gives her a feeble smile.
As the baaratis enter the gates of Gupta house, Abhi's eyes immediately searches around. He didn't have to look far.
Amongst the crowd of faces on the terrace, he was captivated by that one face that belonged to him. Dressed in a creamish saree, hair softly blowing by the whisper of the cool breeze, her face alluringly glowing, she stood there watching him. She looked so ethereal like a moon spreading its radiance in a dark sky.
Abhi's heart refused to stay calm. It kept pounding rapidly as he stood mesmerized, taking in her beauty. How he wished there was no distance between them. Catching his gaze on her, her eyes begin to sparkle. His heart swells in pride with the realization she, too, was waiting for him. She lowers her eyes shyly and then lifting them again traces it back to him.
"I love you," Abhi mouths.
The shy smile on her lips light up her eyes even more. Expressing her acceptance, Nikki blinks at him.
"Is it your wedding or mine," Armaan hisses into his ears. Shaken, Abhi looks at him perplexed. "You are looking at her as if its your wedding and she is your bride. Its still 15 days to your wedding " Armaan continues to tease.
"Shut up!" Abhi tells him with a smile.
The wedding ceremony is about to begin. Led by Nikki, Anjali and Muskaan, Riddhima enters, looking gorgeous in a pink and gold lehenga with a red and gold chunni over her head. Everyone's admiring eyes were on her. Standing gaping at her, Armaan did not hear the priest requesting him to sit down.
"If you are planning to back out, should I sit with Nikki and get married instead?" Abhi returns the teasing.
" Abe Chup!" Armaan hits back with a smile.
The Priests recites the mantras. Abhi goes to Nikki.
"You are looking gorgeous," He whispers in her ear. "I feel like getting married to you right now."
Nikki blushes.
As the Priest explains the marriage vows to the bridal couple, looking into each other's eyes, Abhi and Nikki recite the vows in their hearts.
The wedding was an enjoyable affair. Everyone had a rollicking time. Nikki couldn't help notice Sonali's smitten looks constanty on Abhi. It began to annoy her. Abhi, on the other hand, was completely oblivious of Sonali's adoring glances at him or Nikki's irritation because of it.
When they were alone, Nikki broached the topic of Sonali to Abhi. He passed it off as a joke.
"My eyes are only for you and I want your eyes to be only on me," He teased "No one else."
Carried away by his charming, romantic gestures, Nikki managed to push Sonali off her mind.
After the wedding rituals were completed, Abhi and the gang, take Armaan and Riddhima to the hotel. After having fun ragging them for a while, they all finally head for home.
Abhi and Nikki arrive at her place.
As Nikki steps out of the car, her foot accidentally hits against a tiny pointed stone and she howls in pain. Abhi quickly gets off the car and goes over to her. Going on his haunches, he gently puts her foot on his lap. It was dark. He was unable to see clearly. He carries her into the house. Putting her on the couch, he checks her toe and finds blood oozing out from a tiny cut. He cleans the wound and puts a tiny dressing on it.
Nikki is watching him. There is sadness in her eyes.
"Abhi,"
"Yes?" Abhi was shutting the medical box.
"Soon Armaan and Riddhima will be off. I am going to miss them,"
"I know," Abhi pats her cheek understandingly
"Why do we get so emotionally attached to people and then why do they have to go away from us?" there was heaviness in her voice.
"Well, I guess that's the way of Life, Nikki" Abhi shrugs.
"Well, in my life, everyone I have been close to , had to leave me for some reason or the other." Nikki chokes.
"Same with me too," Abhi tells her sadly.
Taking his hands in hers, Nikki says, " I hope you don't leave me, Abhi. I can't live without you anymore" Fear was written on her face.
Abhi pulls her into his arms.
"Same here, Nikki. Even I can't live without you anymore."
Seeing she was getting emotionally disturbed, Abhi tries to lighten her mood.
"Look, Good or Bad, I am going to be by your side always. I am not going to leave you. So get that fear out of your head"
Nikki smiles at him.
"Are you okay?" he asks her softly
Nikki stands up and says "Yes , See I am absolutely fine." Abhi also stands up and smiles at her.
"Thank you Doctor Sahab," Nikki teases. " What would I do without you?"
"I wonder," Abhi smiles raising an eyebrow.
Nikki smiles back at him.
Drawn by the loveliness in her face, Abhi lifts a finger and slowly caresses it.
"You look absolutely divine."
"Thank you," Nikki mumbles shyly.
Abhi continues to moves his finger towards her lips. Nikki closes her eyes. Alerted by his mind to go no further, Abhi stiffens. He abruptly pulls his hand away from her face. Nikki opens her eyes. She looks questioningly at him.
"I think I should go now," he mumbles awkwardly.
Nikki nods her head in confirmation.
Sadly, she watches him turn and move a step forward. Suddenly, he stops in his track. Then turning slowly, he looks at her. The pangs of separation and loneliness were visible in their eyes.
Unable to control herself, Nikki runs and throws herself at him. Clenching his fists tightly at his sides, Abhi fights himself to resist.
"I love you Abhi," Nikki tells him in a choked voice.
Hearing her words, Abhi knew he lost the battle between his head and his heart. Shutting his eyes , he wraps her tightly in his arms.
"I love you too Nikki, I love you." There was heaviness in his voice.
"If we love each other Abhi, Why is there so much pain? Why is there so much of fear?"
"I don't know Nikki," Abhi whispers with a lump in his throat. "All I know now, it is so difficult to stay away from you."
Swallowed by a plethora of emotions, they cling on to each other.
Few moments later, Abhi looks down at her and wipes the dampness under her eyes.
" Abhi," Nikki whispers as she looks longingly at him.
Cradling her face in his hands, he bends down and wipes away the lone tear on her cheek with his lips. He then slowly moves his lips to her mouth while his hand slowly finds its way down to her midriff. The touch of his hands roaming on the bareness of her stomach, sends Nikki's senses reeling and she gasps in excitement. She wraps her hands tightly around his neck, pulling him closer Raining kisses passionately at her, he slowly and gently pushes her backwards, following her down to the couch.
"hmmmmmm", Nikki murmurs in ecstacy as she meets with the onslaught of his kisses. As his lips move further down to her neck, Nikki digs her fingers into his hair and tugging at it, gives herself up to him in complete surrender.
**********************
Nikki slowly opens her eyes. She finds Abhi's smiling face peering down at her. She smiles back at him.
"Oh Abhi," she murmurs dreamily. Abhi's smile widens. Lifting his finger, he caresses her face.
Eyes half closed, Nikki was enjoying him caressing her face.
"Abhi?" her eyes suddenly pop wide. Startled, she attempts to sit up, but was unable to move much.
Recollecting how Abhi and she became one that night, her face turns a deep red.
Abhi watches her intently. Seeing the colour fill then drain from her cheeks, he asks with concern.
"Are you okay Nikki ? Do you have any regrets?"
Shyly she looks up at him. Seeing the concern and love in his eyes, she smiles.
This is the man she loved so much. For whom she could give her life for.
"No Abhi I have no regrets," she rests her head against his bare chest " I love you."
"I love you too, Nikki," he smiles clasping her tightly.
"We are one now Abhi , we'll never part." Nikki tells him.
" Yes Nikki, we'll never part," looking fondly at her face, Abhi assures her. " No matter what happens now, we will always be bound by some tiny thread of love. We will always be connected."
Abhi's words did come true. Putting her hand on her tummy, Nikki gasps.
Abhi stomps on the brakes and brings the car to a halt. Thankfully they were on a lonely road.
"What happened?" worriedly he places his hand over her hand lying on her stomach. "Are you alright Nikki?"
"I am fine," Nikki nods.
"Then ?"
Nikki lifts tears filled eyes at him.
Realising she was going through the same thoughts, Abhi becomes emotional.
Moist eyed they keep staring at each other. Their hands were placed together tenderly over their connection.
To be continued.
"Are you okay?" he asks with concern. "If you are tired, we could stop for a while."
"No, I am fine." Nikki nods as she pushes her head back into the headrest of her seat and closes her eyes.
"How old is the baby?" Abhi was eager to know.
"14 weeks," putting her hand on her stomach, Nikki informs him.
"14 weeks." Abhi is elated . "Our baby is 14 weeks old'. This means' means.."
His thoughts wander off to Armaan and Riddhima's wedding day.
The first half of the day Abhi was busy with work and then later, he went over to Armaan's to help him. The girls were busy helping Riddhima.
Later on the gang then went over to decorate the hotel room, that Armaan and Riddhima were to stay that night. Abhi noticed Nikki was not with Muskaan and Anjali.
"Riddhima is too nervous and needs Nikki by her side all the time." Muskaan informs him. " So you will have to do without your Nikki today." Disappointed yet understanding, Abhi gives her a feeble smile.
As the baaratis enter the gates of Gupta house, Abhi's eyes immediately searches around. He didn't have to look far.
Amongst the crowd of faces on the terrace, he was captivated by that one face that belonged to him. Dressed in a creamish saree, hair softly blowing by the whisper of the cool breeze, her face alluringly glowing, she stood there watching him. She looked so ethereal like a moon spreading its radiance in a dark sky.
Abhi's heart refused to stay calm. It kept pounding rapidly as he stood mesmerized, taking in her beauty. How he wished there was no distance between them. Catching his gaze on her, her eyes begin to sparkle. His heart swells in pride with the realization she, too, was waiting for him. She lowers her eyes shyly and then lifting them again traces it back to him.
"I love you," Abhi mouths.
The shy smile on her lips light up her eyes even more. Expressing her acceptance, Nikki blinks at him.
"Is it your wedding or mine," Armaan hisses into his ears. Shaken, Abhi looks at him perplexed. "You are looking at her as if its your wedding and she is your bride. Its still 15 days to your wedding " Armaan continues to tease.
"Shut up!" Abhi tells him with a smile.
The wedding ceremony is about to begin. Led by Nikki, Anjali and Muskaan, Riddhima enters, looking gorgeous in a pink and gold lehenga with a red and gold chunni over her head. Everyone's admiring eyes were on her. Standing gaping at her, Armaan did not hear the priest requesting him to sit down.
"If you are planning to back out, should I sit with Nikki and get married instead?" Abhi returns the teasing.
" Abe Chup!" Armaan hits back with a smile.
The Priests recites the mantras. Abhi goes to Nikki.
"You are looking gorgeous," He whispers in her ear. "I feel like getting married to you right now."
Nikki blushes.
As the Priest explains the marriage vows to the bridal couple, looking into each other's eyes, Abhi and Nikki recite the vows in their hearts.
The wedding was an enjoyable affair. Everyone had a rollicking time. Nikki couldn't help notice Sonali's smitten looks constanty on Abhi. It began to annoy her. Abhi, on the other hand, was completely oblivious of Sonali's adoring glances at him or Nikki's irritation because of it.
When they were alone, Nikki broached the topic of Sonali to Abhi. He passed it off as a joke.
"My eyes are only for you and I want your eyes to be only on me," He teased "No one else."
Carried away by his charming, romantic gestures, Nikki managed to push Sonali off her mind.
After the wedding rituals were completed, Abhi and the gang, take Armaan and Riddhima to the hotel. After having fun ragging them for a while, they all finally head for home.
Abhi and Nikki arrive at her place.
As Nikki steps out of the car, her foot accidentally hits against a tiny pointed stone and she howls in pain. Abhi quickly gets off the car and goes over to her. Going on his haunches, he gently puts her foot on his lap. It was dark. He was unable to see clearly. He carries her into the house. Putting her on the couch, he checks her toe and finds blood oozing out from a tiny cut. He cleans the wound and puts a tiny dressing on it.
Nikki is watching him. There is sadness in her eyes.
"Abhi,"
"Yes?" Abhi was shutting the medical box.
"Soon Armaan and Riddhima will be off. I am going to miss them,"
"I know," Abhi pats her cheek understandingly
"Why do we get so emotionally attached to people and then why do they have to go away from us?" there was heaviness in her voice.
"Well, I guess that's the way of Life, Nikki" Abhi shrugs.
"Well, in my life, everyone I have been close to , had to leave me for some reason or the other." Nikki chokes.
"Same with me too," Abhi tells her sadly.
Taking his hands in hers, Nikki says, " I hope you don't leave me, Abhi. I can't live without you anymore" Fear was written on her face.
Abhi pulls her into his arms.
"Same here, Nikki. Even I can't live without you anymore."
Seeing she was getting emotionally disturbed, Abhi tries to lighten her mood.
"Look, Good or Bad, I am going to be by your side always. I am not going to leave you. So get that fear out of your head"
Nikki smiles at him.
"Are you okay?" he asks her softly
Nikki stands up and says "Yes , See I am absolutely fine." Abhi also stands up and smiles at her.
"Thank you Doctor Sahab," Nikki teases. " What would I do without you?"
"I wonder," Abhi smiles raising an eyebrow.
Nikki smiles back at him.
Drawn by the loveliness in her face, Abhi lifts a finger and slowly caresses it.
"You look absolutely divine."
"Thank you," Nikki mumbles shyly.
Abhi continues to moves his finger towards her lips. Nikki closes her eyes. Alerted by his mind to go no further, Abhi stiffens. He abruptly pulls his hand away from her face. Nikki opens her eyes. She looks questioningly at him.
"I think I should go now," he mumbles awkwardly.
Nikki nods her head in confirmation.
Sadly, she watches him turn and move a step forward. Suddenly, he stops in his track. Then turning slowly, he looks at her. The pangs of separation and loneliness were visible in their eyes.
Unable to control herself, Nikki runs and throws herself at him. Clenching his fists tightly at his sides, Abhi fights himself to resist.
"I love you Abhi," Nikki tells him in a choked voice.
Hearing her words, Abhi knew he lost the battle between his head and his heart. Shutting his eyes , he wraps her tightly in his arms.
"I love you too Nikki, I love you." There was heaviness in his voice.
"If we love each other Abhi, Why is there so much pain? Why is there so much of fear?"
"I don't know Nikki," Abhi whispers with a lump in his throat. "All I know now, it is so difficult to stay away from you."
Swallowed by a plethora of emotions, they cling on to each other.
Few moments later, Abhi looks down at her and wipes the dampness under her eyes.
" Abhi," Nikki whispers as she looks longingly at him.
Cradling her face in his hands, he bends down and wipes away the lone tear on her cheek with his lips. He then slowly moves his lips to her mouth while his hand slowly finds its way down to her midriff. The touch of his hands roaming on the bareness of her stomach, sends Nikki's senses reeling and she gasps in excitement. She wraps her hands tightly around his neck, pulling him closer Raining kisses passionately at her, he slowly and gently pushes her backwards, following her down to the couch.
"hmmmmmm", Nikki murmurs in ecstacy as she meets with the onslaught of his kisses. As his lips move further down to her neck, Nikki digs her fingers into his hair and tugging at it, gives herself up to him in complete surrender.
**********************
Nikki slowly opens her eyes. She finds Abhi's smiling face peering down at her. She smiles back at him.
"Oh Abhi," she murmurs dreamily. Abhi's smile widens. Lifting his finger, he caresses her face.
Eyes half closed, Nikki was enjoying him caressing her face.
"Abhi?" her eyes suddenly pop wide. Startled, she attempts to sit up, but was unable to move much.
Recollecting how Abhi and she became one that night, her face turns a deep red.
Abhi watches her intently. Seeing the colour fill then drain from her cheeks, he asks with concern.
"Are you okay Nikki ? Do you have any regrets?"
Shyly she looks up at him. Seeing the concern and love in his eyes, she smiles.
This is the man she loved so much. For whom she could give her life for.
"No Abhi I have no regrets," she rests her head against his bare chest " I love you."
"I love you too, Nikki," he smiles clasping her tightly.
"We are one now Abhi , we'll never part." Nikki tells him.
" Yes Nikki, we'll never part," looking fondly at her face, Abhi assures her. " No matter what happens now, we will always be bound by some tiny thread of love. We will always be connected."
Abhi's words did come true. Putting her hand on her tummy, Nikki gasps.
Abhi stomps on the brakes and brings the car to a halt. Thankfully they were on a lonely road.
"What happened?" worriedly he places his hand over her hand lying on her stomach. "Are you alright Nikki?"
"I am fine," Nikki nods.
"Then ?"
Nikki lifts tears filled eyes at him.
Realising she was going through the same thoughts, Abhi becomes emotional.
Moist eyed they keep staring at each other. Their hands were placed together tenderly over their connection.
To be continued.
CONNECTED IN LOVE - PART-2
Sitting in the car beside Abhi as they drive towards home, Nikki recollects the events of the past three months.
That night, in the barn in Rajasthan, when Nikki tells Abhi she loves him, he pulls her in his arms.
Hugging her her tightly, he says "I love you too, Nikki. I love you very much. Will you marry me ? Will you be my wife?"
Tears flowing down her cheeks, Nikki nods her head. "I will marry you Abhi. I would love to be your wife." Abhi swallows a lump down his throat as he smiles at her.
"Come on, Lets go home," he whispers engulfing her in his arms.
They manage to escape from Rajasthan.
When they reach Mumbai, there was jubilation in Sanjeevani as the following week the interns would be completing their internship. Riddhima got an offer from a prestigious hospital in London and had to join in the first week of October. Dr. Shashank, therefore, decides to get Armaan and Riddhima married before they left. The wedding was fixed for two weeks later on the 31st of August, so that they could complete the required legal formalities before they left.
Through a recommendation from a trustee, Abhi appoints a new assistant, Sonali Pradhan, to help him at work while he was busy scouting around for a new financier for the New Sanjeevani project as they had lost the deal with the Dalmiyas.
Meanwhile Nikki tells Riddhima and a shocked Armaan, that Abhi and she have decided to get married. After being completely assured that Abhi is the right guy for Nikki, Armaan congratulates both of them.
Its Armaan and Riddhima's sangeet party.
Nikki is impatiently waiting for Abhi. Caught up in a frenzy of work, Abhi arrives a bit late. As he enters, he can see Nikki sulking. He takes in her red strappy churidar suit, with delicate gold work on it. A matching dupatta around her neck. Even though she looked upset, she was mesmerizingly beautiful.
"Be Still My Beating Heart," he speaks in his mind. "Its time to face the fire,"
Seeing him enter, Nikki's eyes light up in happiness. He was looking very Hot in a maroon sherwani. Her anger slowly vanishes but she doesn't want him to see it. Abhi comes and stands next to her.
"Hi," he smiles at her.
Nikki scowls at him and turns her face away. Armaan and Riddhima come near them and greet Abhi. They were then joined by Atul and Muskaan . As everyone were busy dancing and chatting, Abhi slowly moves his hand behind Nikki's dupatta and holds on to her hand. Nikki is startled. She tries to free her hand but Abhi has grasped it tightly.
"Come outside onto the verandah," he whispers "I want to tell you something."
Shaking her head, Nikki refuses.
Abhi looks pleadingly at her.
Nikki is finding it difficult to hide her smile. She manages to glare at him.
"Chal Nikki, lets go and check what Anjali is upto?" Muskaan drags Nikki by the other hand.
Not wanting her to go, Abhi tugs her gently. Their eyes clash as they exchange a longing for each other. Seeing, Muskaan's vocal insistence, Abhi lets go off her hand. Nikki keeps looking at him as she slowly follows Muskaan.
Dejected, Abhi turns and walks towards the verandah. With a heavy heart Nikki watches him walk out.
Resting his hands on the window, Abhi looks out into the dark night. He somehow ends up feeling lonely even in a crowd.
As he continues to stare out into the dark, he notices a pair of beautiful red bangled hands encircling him and then resting on the bareness of his chest. The warmth radiating from those hands sends a tingling sensation into his whole system. As she rests her head on his back, Abhi smiles. As long as she is with him, he'll never feel lonely.
"What happened ?" he tried to sound indifferent. "Have you finished checking on all the important people in your life ? If not, why don't you complete it. I can always wait."
Nikki smiles.
"I know. That is why, I've come to see the most important person of my life," standing on her toes, she whispers seductively in his ears.
"Oh really?" A twisted smile appears on Abhi's lips as he pulls her in front of him. "Glad to know it."
He encircles his arms around her waist and looks lovingly into her face.
Nikki blushes. "What did you want to tell me ?"
"You are so beautiful," he drawls passionately.
"Thank you!" Nikki accepts the compliment with a smile. "And?"
"And, I want a Kiss!" Abhi smiles.
"Whaat?" Nikki is bewildered. " Here? In front of everyone ? Are you mad?"
"Only a Kiss," he insists softly as he bends forward.
"Abhi, someone will look, Stop it," Nikki giggles as she tries to dodge him.
"Whats going on here ?"
Startled, they turn to see Atul, Muskaan and Anjali standing agog behind them.
"Oh God, don't tell me he is troubling you again, Nikki?" Muskaan questions her
"Muskaaan, N'NN. " Nikki stammers nervously.
" Why are you all here?" Armaan asks entering the terrace followed by Riddhima.
"Look Armaan, Dr. Modi is troubling Nikki again" Atul complains.
Abhi and Nikki roll their eyes in exasperation.
"If he doesn't trouble her then who will?'' asks Armaan. Three confused faces and three amused faces look at him.
"Haan, you guys are right," he tells the three confused people. "Dr. Modi, now this is enough okay. Now you are allowed to trouble Nikki only after you marry her."
"WHAAAAAAAT ?" three voices holler at him making him cover his ears.
"Then what? You guys can see he is troubling her, can't you see this chipkoo," indicating towards Nikki with his eyes, "can't you see her enjoying his troubling."
Nikki turns red and hides her face in Abhi's shoulder. Armaan, Riddhima and Abhi laugh at the colour draining out of the three faces.
"Well, Abhimanyu and Nikki are getting married," with a smile, Riddhima explains to them.
"How mean Nikki," the three pounce on her. "You couldn't tell us ?"
Before Nikki could answer them, Dr. Shashank and Billy enter
"What are you all doing here? The sangeet is inside and all of you have disappeared."
"Papa looks like we are going to have another wedding soon." Riddhima tells Shashank glancing at Abhi and Nikki
"Even I think so," Billy agrees. "I spoke to your Dad Nikki, he is coming soon."
Nikki is estatic. Holding Riddhima's hand she says emotionally, "I want Armaan and Riddhima to be there for my wedding."
"So then we will have the wedding in two weeks time." Shashank tells them.
"Is that okay with you Abhimanyu?"
"Perfect Sir," Abhi confirms looking fondly at Nikki. " Even I , would love Armaan and Riddhima to be present for our wedding."
"So that's Done!" Billy confirms thumping Abhi on the back. The couple are showered with congratulations and hugs.
As everyone slowly make their way inside , Abhi bends down to whisper into Nikki's ears.
"Why does a small request of mine always end up in a dhamaal?" he grins impishly
Nikki digs her elbow into his side.
A smile breaks out on Nikki's face. She shifts in her seat and turning notices Abhi driving. She was back to the present.
That night, in the barn in Rajasthan, when Nikki tells Abhi she loves him, he pulls her in his arms.
Hugging her her tightly, he says "I love you too, Nikki. I love you very much. Will you marry me ? Will you be my wife?"
Tears flowing down her cheeks, Nikki nods her head. "I will marry you Abhi. I would love to be your wife." Abhi swallows a lump down his throat as he smiles at her.
"Come on, Lets go home," he whispers engulfing her in his arms.
They manage to escape from Rajasthan.
When they reach Mumbai, there was jubilation in Sanjeevani as the following week the interns would be completing their internship. Riddhima got an offer from a prestigious hospital in London and had to join in the first week of October. Dr. Shashank, therefore, decides to get Armaan and Riddhima married before they left. The wedding was fixed for two weeks later on the 31st of August, so that they could complete the required legal formalities before they left.
Through a recommendation from a trustee, Abhi appoints a new assistant, Sonali Pradhan, to help him at work while he was busy scouting around for a new financier for the New Sanjeevani project as they had lost the deal with the Dalmiyas.
Meanwhile Nikki tells Riddhima and a shocked Armaan, that Abhi and she have decided to get married. After being completely assured that Abhi is the right guy for Nikki, Armaan congratulates both of them.
Its Armaan and Riddhima's sangeet party.
Nikki is impatiently waiting for Abhi. Caught up in a frenzy of work, Abhi arrives a bit late. As he enters, he can see Nikki sulking. He takes in her red strappy churidar suit, with delicate gold work on it. A matching dupatta around her neck. Even though she looked upset, she was mesmerizingly beautiful.
"Be Still My Beating Heart," he speaks in his mind. "Its time to face the fire,"
Seeing him enter, Nikki's eyes light up in happiness. He was looking very Hot in a maroon sherwani. Her anger slowly vanishes but she doesn't want him to see it. Abhi comes and stands next to her.
"Hi," he smiles at her.
Nikki scowls at him and turns her face away. Armaan and Riddhima come near them and greet Abhi. They were then joined by Atul and Muskaan . As everyone were busy dancing and chatting, Abhi slowly moves his hand behind Nikki's dupatta and holds on to her hand. Nikki is startled. She tries to free her hand but Abhi has grasped it tightly.
"Come outside onto the verandah," he whispers "I want to tell you something."
Shaking her head, Nikki refuses.
Abhi looks pleadingly at her.
Nikki is finding it difficult to hide her smile. She manages to glare at him.
"Chal Nikki, lets go and check what Anjali is upto?" Muskaan drags Nikki by the other hand.
Not wanting her to go, Abhi tugs her gently. Their eyes clash as they exchange a longing for each other. Seeing, Muskaan's vocal insistence, Abhi lets go off her hand. Nikki keeps looking at him as she slowly follows Muskaan.
Dejected, Abhi turns and walks towards the verandah. With a heavy heart Nikki watches him walk out.
Resting his hands on the window, Abhi looks out into the dark night. He somehow ends up feeling lonely even in a crowd.
As he continues to stare out into the dark, he notices a pair of beautiful red bangled hands encircling him and then resting on the bareness of his chest. The warmth radiating from those hands sends a tingling sensation into his whole system. As she rests her head on his back, Abhi smiles. As long as she is with him, he'll never feel lonely.
"What happened ?" he tried to sound indifferent. "Have you finished checking on all the important people in your life ? If not, why don't you complete it. I can always wait."
Nikki smiles.
"I know. That is why, I've come to see the most important person of my life," standing on her toes, she whispers seductively in his ears.
"Oh really?" A twisted smile appears on Abhi's lips as he pulls her in front of him. "Glad to know it."
He encircles his arms around her waist and looks lovingly into her face.
Nikki blushes. "What did you want to tell me ?"
"You are so beautiful," he drawls passionately.
"Thank you!" Nikki accepts the compliment with a smile. "And?"
"And, I want a Kiss!" Abhi smiles.
"Whaat?" Nikki is bewildered. " Here? In front of everyone ? Are you mad?"
"Only a Kiss," he insists softly as he bends forward.
"Abhi, someone will look, Stop it," Nikki giggles as she tries to dodge him.
"Whats going on here ?"
Startled, they turn to see Atul, Muskaan and Anjali standing agog behind them.
"Oh God, don't tell me he is troubling you again, Nikki?" Muskaan questions her
"Muskaaan, N'NN. " Nikki stammers nervously.
" Why are you all here?" Armaan asks entering the terrace followed by Riddhima.
"Look Armaan, Dr. Modi is troubling Nikki again" Atul complains.
Abhi and Nikki roll their eyes in exasperation.
"If he doesn't trouble her then who will?'' asks Armaan. Three confused faces and three amused faces look at him.
"Haan, you guys are right," he tells the three confused people. "Dr. Modi, now this is enough okay. Now you are allowed to trouble Nikki only after you marry her."
"WHAAAAAAAT ?" three voices holler at him making him cover his ears.
"Then what? You guys can see he is troubling her, can't you see this chipkoo," indicating towards Nikki with his eyes, "can't you see her enjoying his troubling."
Nikki turns red and hides her face in Abhi's shoulder. Armaan, Riddhima and Abhi laugh at the colour draining out of the three faces.
"Well, Abhimanyu and Nikki are getting married," with a smile, Riddhima explains to them.
"How mean Nikki," the three pounce on her. "You couldn't tell us ?"
Before Nikki could answer them, Dr. Shashank and Billy enter
"What are you all doing here? The sangeet is inside and all of you have disappeared."
"Papa looks like we are going to have another wedding soon." Riddhima tells Shashank glancing at Abhi and Nikki
"Even I think so," Billy agrees. "I spoke to your Dad Nikki, he is coming soon."
Nikki is estatic. Holding Riddhima's hand she says emotionally, "I want Armaan and Riddhima to be there for my wedding."
"So then we will have the wedding in two weeks time." Shashank tells them.
"Is that okay with you Abhimanyu?"
"Perfect Sir," Abhi confirms looking fondly at Nikki. " Even I , would love Armaan and Riddhima to be present for our wedding."
"So that's Done!" Billy confirms thumping Abhi on the back. The couple are showered with congratulations and hugs.
As everyone slowly make their way inside , Abhi bends down to whisper into Nikki's ears.
"Why does a small request of mine always end up in a dhamaal?" he grins impishly
Nikki digs her elbow into his side.
A smile breaks out on Nikki's face. She shifts in her seat and turning notices Abhi driving. She was back to the present.
CONNECTED IN LOVE - PART-1
Well this scene is especially written for Shachee and Bhavna keeping in mind their special request and also for Annie, Fahi, Honey and all those lovely ppl who have requested me to write a scene...
This scene is continued after Nikki tells Abhi she loves him, in a barn in Rajasthan. (Please refer to the synopsis). Instead of the "I'm Married" and amnesia tracks would have preferred to see something like this.
"Jas and me have decided to come down to Mumbai for 3 weeks. Since we couldn't make it for your wedding, we would like to spend some time with you and your husband. Got to see the person you chose over Akash.
Kavita
Nikki stares into the laptop as she read her mother's email once again.
How much her mother would gloat when she comes to know that, true to her prediction, Nikki separated from her husband. All her life, she will never let Nikki forget the folly of not marrying Akash, the guy she was keen Nikki should marry.
"Now what should she do ?" Nikki wonders. " How can she let her mother feel she had won. She was never around when Nikki needed her the most, not even for her wedding. She made an excuse of her step-father Jas having an important conference. Nikki knows she is coming down for cousin, her mother's favourite niece's wedding. So she is using the excuse of checking on Nikki. Killing two birds with one stone. How typical of her mother !
"Please help me God. Why do you let everyone walk all over me and get away with it. Please Help me!"
The Doorbell rings.
With a sigh, she walks towards the door. As she opens the door, she freezes . 'This can't be' she thinks as she stares blanky at her husband standing in front of her. His eyes were cold, more frigid. Seeing her slowly slumping down, he worriedly moves forward and catches her in his arms.
Sometime later Nikki opens her eyes. Seeing Abhi sitting beside her, on the couch, she was lying on, she realises she had fainted in his arms.
Her mind is reeling with questions. "How did he find her ? She was careful not to leave behind any signs of her whereabouts. Then how ?"
"Some private detectives are indeed very good," Abhi clears her confusion.
"Wh....What are you doing here ?" Stammering Nikki attempts to sit up.
"Good question," Abhi says coldly "For the past two months, I have been searching for my wife, trying to find out the reason she left me all of a sudden and she coolly asks what am I doing here? Great !" sarcasm in his voice he glares at her.
"Well, I made a mistake in trusting you which I realized only after marrying you." Nikki shoots back at him. " I don't want to say anything further than that.
Abhi angrily grabs her by the shoulder. "You throw accusations at me without giving me a valid reason and want me to live with it. Atleast let me know what is my fault ?"
His grip on her arm was unbearable. "Abhi, you are hurting me." she winces. "How can I forget ? This is an old habit of yours," she taunts "The only thing you do right is hurt me."
Still glaring at her, Abhi loosens his grip. Sliding his hand slowly away from her arm, he hits against a book lying on the side table. The book falls to the ground. He bends down to pick it up. Nikki gasps in fear. Before she can stop him, he has already picked it up. Reading the title, he turns and looks dumbfounded at Nikki
"Pregnancy and Single Parent." It read.
"Th..... That is for a patient of mine." She strutters awkwardly.
Stunned Abhi continues to stare at her. Seeing the intensity in his eyes, Nikki's cheeks flush red. As he bends closer towards her, Nikki moves slightly backwards. She sees him lift his hand and slowly place it on her stomach. The warmth of his hands could be felt through the soft material of her kurti, sending her insides fluttering. For the first time she felt the movement of the foetus inside her as if it recognized the touch. She closes her eyes.
"You are pregnant?" Abhi's voice was soft and disbelieving.
Nikki opens her eyes. She tries to negate his question with the shake of her head but Abhi's hand over the slight swell of her stomach, made here realize, it would be useless to deny the glaring truth.
"You are carrying my child Nikki and you did not think it fit to tell me about it ?" Abhi was bewildered.
"Abhi, I ....I...."
"Abhi, I what ?" he snarls.
Nikki fumes. "How dare he ?"
"Look I want to deal with this alone, this is my child.." she tells him angrily
"And mine, too" Abhi snaps back. "Don't forget that we are married. We are one."
" No, we are not Abhi. Our marriage is over."
"How can you break our marriage on such a small thing Nikki? Just because I didn't make it that night ?" his eyebrows narrow in disbelief. "Do you even know what I went through that night?"
"I know very well what you went through that night Abhi. I know how you enjoyed yourself while I was waiting for you....."
Abhi looks confusedly at her.
"Enjoyed ?" he asks with the raise of his eyebrow.
The ring tone of the cellphone make them turn towards it. Nikki picks up her phone and looking at the number flashing, makes a face in irritation.
"Yes Mom," she answers reluctantly into the phone.
She shifts awkwardly as she finds Abhi's discerning gaze roving all over her.
"What did you say?" The shock in her voice makes Abhi look questioningly at her.
"Yeah, Okay, I'll speak to you later. Bye." She disconnects.
"Is everything okay?" there was softness in Abhi's voice.
Nikki bites her lip. "My mom is coming down to Mumbai on Friday for 3 weeks."
"So what is the problem ?"
"She wants to stay with us.
"And?" Abhi enquires
"and we live separately." Nikki states firmly
"Well that is because of you Nikki, not Me." Abhi shrugs. " You don't know how crazy I went searching for you the past two months and I don't even know why you left."
Nikki shuts her eyes tightly as glimpses of Abhi in bed with Sonali flashes before her.
"I don't want to talk about it, I just don't want to talk about........." She begins to breathe heavily.
"Okay, relax!" Abhi worriedly tries to calm her. "Okay, lets not talk about it. Don't want you to be stressed. Not good for you or the baby."
"Look Nikki," he tells her soothingly. "You are my wife and now you are having our baby. I want you and the baby in my life. So please come back."
Nikki takes a deep breath and closes her eyes to calm herself.
"I will come back to you Abhi, but, only for one reason. Till the time my mother is here, I want her to see we are happily married." Abhi looks crestfallenly at her
"You are the father of my child and only because of this connection, you will be my husband. " Her voice was threatening to choke, but she was determined not to let him hear it. "You and I have no other relationship whatsoever," She tells him firmly.
Abhi felt his heart shredding into pieces. He realizes he has to accept whatever she says. For her own good and for the baby's sake, he cannot get her agitated. It's a small mercy that she is back into his life even if it is not the way he wanted. Atleast its much better than these wretched past two months where he had to live miserably without her. Now is not the time to ask questions!
Nikki is also thinking. Atleast I will not let my mother get the satisfaction that she was right. She breathes a sigh of relief.
The thought of living with a mother who never cared for her daughter's feelings and a husband who betrayed her love, jabs into her heart. Perhaps it an opportunity to settle old scores
This scene is continued after Nikki tells Abhi she loves him, in a barn in Rajasthan. (Please refer to the synopsis). Instead of the "I'm Married" and amnesia tracks would have preferred to see something like this.
"Jas and me have decided to come down to Mumbai for 3 weeks. Since we couldn't make it for your wedding, we would like to spend some time with you and your husband. Got to see the person you chose over Akash.
Kavita
Nikki stares into the laptop as she read her mother's email once again.
How much her mother would gloat when she comes to know that, true to her prediction, Nikki separated from her husband. All her life, she will never let Nikki forget the folly of not marrying Akash, the guy she was keen Nikki should marry.
"Now what should she do ?" Nikki wonders. " How can she let her mother feel she had won. She was never around when Nikki needed her the most, not even for her wedding. She made an excuse of her step-father Jas having an important conference. Nikki knows she is coming down for cousin, her mother's favourite niece's wedding. So she is using the excuse of checking on Nikki. Killing two birds with one stone. How typical of her mother !
"Please help me God. Why do you let everyone walk all over me and get away with it. Please Help me!"
The Doorbell rings.
With a sigh, she walks towards the door. As she opens the door, she freezes . 'This can't be' she thinks as she stares blanky at her husband standing in front of her. His eyes were cold, more frigid. Seeing her slowly slumping down, he worriedly moves forward and catches her in his arms.
Sometime later Nikki opens her eyes. Seeing Abhi sitting beside her, on the couch, she was lying on, she realises she had fainted in his arms.
Her mind is reeling with questions. "How did he find her ? She was careful not to leave behind any signs of her whereabouts. Then how ?"
"Some private detectives are indeed very good," Abhi clears her confusion.
"Wh....What are you doing here ?" Stammering Nikki attempts to sit up.
"Good question," Abhi says coldly "For the past two months, I have been searching for my wife, trying to find out the reason she left me all of a sudden and she coolly asks what am I doing here? Great !" sarcasm in his voice he glares at her.
"Well, I made a mistake in trusting you which I realized only after marrying you." Nikki shoots back at him. " I don't want to say anything further than that.
Abhi angrily grabs her by the shoulder. "You throw accusations at me without giving me a valid reason and want me to live with it. Atleast let me know what is my fault ?"
His grip on her arm was unbearable. "Abhi, you are hurting me." she winces. "How can I forget ? This is an old habit of yours," she taunts "The only thing you do right is hurt me."
Still glaring at her, Abhi loosens his grip. Sliding his hand slowly away from her arm, he hits against a book lying on the side table. The book falls to the ground. He bends down to pick it up. Nikki gasps in fear. Before she can stop him, he has already picked it up. Reading the title, he turns and looks dumbfounded at Nikki
"Pregnancy and Single Parent." It read.
"Th..... That is for a patient of mine." She strutters awkwardly.
Stunned Abhi continues to stare at her. Seeing the intensity in his eyes, Nikki's cheeks flush red. As he bends closer towards her, Nikki moves slightly backwards. She sees him lift his hand and slowly place it on her stomach. The warmth of his hands could be felt through the soft material of her kurti, sending her insides fluttering. For the first time she felt the movement of the foetus inside her as if it recognized the touch. She closes her eyes.
"You are pregnant?" Abhi's voice was soft and disbelieving.
Nikki opens her eyes. She tries to negate his question with the shake of her head but Abhi's hand over the slight swell of her stomach, made here realize, it would be useless to deny the glaring truth.
"You are carrying my child Nikki and you did not think it fit to tell me about it ?" Abhi was bewildered.
"Abhi, I ....I...."
"Abhi, I what ?" he snarls.
Nikki fumes. "How dare he ?"
"Look I want to deal with this alone, this is my child.." she tells him angrily
"And mine, too" Abhi snaps back. "Don't forget that we are married. We are one."
" No, we are not Abhi. Our marriage is over."
"How can you break our marriage on such a small thing Nikki? Just because I didn't make it that night ?" his eyebrows narrow in disbelief. "Do you even know what I went through that night?"
"I know very well what you went through that night Abhi. I know how you enjoyed yourself while I was waiting for you....."
Abhi looks confusedly at her.
"Enjoyed ?" he asks with the raise of his eyebrow.
The ring tone of the cellphone make them turn towards it. Nikki picks up her phone and looking at the number flashing, makes a face in irritation.
"Yes Mom," she answers reluctantly into the phone.
She shifts awkwardly as she finds Abhi's discerning gaze roving all over her.
"What did you say?" The shock in her voice makes Abhi look questioningly at her.
"Yeah, Okay, I'll speak to you later. Bye." She disconnects.
"Is everything okay?" there was softness in Abhi's voice.
Nikki bites her lip. "My mom is coming down to Mumbai on Friday for 3 weeks."
"So what is the problem ?"
"She wants to stay with us.
"And?" Abhi enquires
"and we live separately." Nikki states firmly
"Well that is because of you Nikki, not Me." Abhi shrugs. " You don't know how crazy I went searching for you the past two months and I don't even know why you left."
Nikki shuts her eyes tightly as glimpses of Abhi in bed with Sonali flashes before her.
"I don't want to talk about it, I just don't want to talk about........." She begins to breathe heavily.
"Okay, relax!" Abhi worriedly tries to calm her. "Okay, lets not talk about it. Don't want you to be stressed. Not good for you or the baby."
"Look Nikki," he tells her soothingly. "You are my wife and now you are having our baby. I want you and the baby in my life. So please come back."
Nikki takes a deep breath and closes her eyes to calm herself.
"I will come back to you Abhi, but, only for one reason. Till the time my mother is here, I want her to see we are happily married." Abhi looks crestfallenly at her
"You are the father of my child and only because of this connection, you will be my husband. " Her voice was threatening to choke, but she was determined not to let him hear it. "You and I have no other relationship whatsoever," She tells him firmly.
Abhi felt his heart shredding into pieces. He realizes he has to accept whatever she says. For her own good and for the baby's sake, he cannot get her agitated. It's a small mercy that she is back into his life even if it is not the way he wanted. Atleast its much better than these wretched past two months where he had to live miserably without her. Now is not the time to ask questions!
Nikki is also thinking. Atleast I will not let my mother get the satisfaction that she was right. She breathes a sigh of relief.
The thought of living with a mother who never cared for her daughter's feelings and a husband who betrayed her love, jabs into her heart. Perhaps it an opportunity to settle old scores
Monday, December 7, 2009
CHAHE RAHO DOOR AND PYAR HUA JAB SE
These songs are my favourite fun romantic numbers Chahe Raho Door from the movie Do Chor and Pyar Hua Jabse from Abhilasha
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
SCENE 2
I feel Shweta's foot injury could have been used effectively in a scene like this. Wrote this scene after Abhi knows Nikki is helping Suman Lata ( who is completely smitten with him) to go on date with him. (Was posted on IF on 12th July 2009)
At the end of the working day, the hospital staff, are getting ready to leave Sanjeevani. The nurse tells Nikki that Dr. Modi has called her to his cabin.
Wondering now what Abhi has in store for her, Nikki knocks on his door and enters.
Abhi who was standing in front of his desk turns and gives her a cold look.
“Dr. Modi, you wanted to see me?” Nikki tried to sound as professional as she could.
“Dr. Nikita,” Abhi says with venom, “you will never change in life, would you? You are still playing games with me!”
"Excuse me, what do you mean ? Nikki asks him in bewilderment.
" Don't pretend,” Abhi raises his voice angrily. “I know you are supporting Suman Lata, in troubling me"
“I don't know what you are talking about,” Nikki feigns ignorance.
“Typical of you,” Abhi taunts, “ you will never admit to your faults. You play games and then you pretend you are innocent.
“I am not playing any games,” Nikki retorts “You are the one who thinks has all authority to do anything with anyone's life.”
Angered by her accusation, Abhi moves closer to her.
“What do you mean ?” he growls fiercely.
His hand accidentally hits the paper weight lying on the desk. It falls on Nikki's middle toe.
Nikki howls in and slumps down on a chair nearby. She tries to reach her toe and finds it bleeding.
Horrified, Abhi goes down on his knees and tries to look at Nikki's toe. Darting an angry glance, she flings his hand away from her. Abhi forcebly holds her leg. Nikki tries to free her leg from his grasp.
"Sit quietly !" he reprimands sternly holding firmly on to her foot.
Examining the bleeding toe, he slowly removes her shoe. Going behind his desk, he pulls out the medical kit. He goes to Nikki and starts cleaning up the blood on her toe.
“Oww, Oww,” Nikki cries in pain.
“Is it very painfully,” Abhi asks tenderly.
"No! I am faking it" Nikki hits back in irritation.
Abhi continues cleaning the wound.
“Lets check how how bad the pain is Nikki, can you stand ?” Standing up, he offers his hand to her.
Reluctantly taking his hand, Nikki stands up. The moment her foot touches the ground she cries out in pain and falls against him. He quickly put supporting arms around her. They stare at each other. However, Nikki winces in pain again and Abhi loosens his grip.
Holding her by the arm he examines the toe again.
“We need an X Ray,” he tells her.
He calls for a wheelchair. Nikki is taken for an XRay. According to the reports, she has a hairline fracture. Reading it, Abhi feels guilty.
“I am sorry about this,” he apologises softly.
“Yeah it seems to be your hobby. First you give pain and then try to put a balm on it,” she taunts.
After Nikki is given the required treatment and a crutch for moving around, Abhi offers to drop her home.
Sitting in the car, Nikki can’t help think, some pain are blessings in disguise. It is because of this fracture she is sitting here beside Abhi who is not angry or cold with her anymore. Infact, he is even more considerate and caring.
She glances sideways at him, their eyes meet and then feeling awkward, both quickly turn away. Till they reach her home, they keep stealing glances at each other.
When they reach her place, Nikki gets off the car. She puts out the crutch and with its support, she attempts to stand up.
Unable to see it, Abhi goes over to her sand carries her in his arms.
“Its okay, I'll manage" Nikki protests feebly.
Giving her a wry look, Abhi continues to carry her. Nikki holds on to his neck for support. As he strides towards the house, with Nikki in arms, they keep looking shyly at each other.
Abhi recollects how the carried, the bhang hit Nikki, in his arms during Holi.
When Nikki's maid opens the door, she is surprised to find Abhi carrying Nikki in his arms.
“Your Nikki Madam, is injured,” he informs her. “Go and get the crutch and her shoes from the car.
He then carries Nikki to her room. As he was about to put Nikki down on her bed, his leg bangs against the side of the bed and he trips. Nikki gets jerked and feeling herself going off balance, she falls on the bed, pulling Abhi with her. Abhi manages to hold her firmly.
They find themselves drowning into each other. The warmth of the other’s breath makes their senses go dizzy. They begin to breathe heavily.
"Didi do you want something ?" the maid’s intervention tear them apart from each other.
“No No Nothing,” Nikki tries to compose herself.
Abhi straightens himself and stands up abruptly.
“If you have any problem or need anything, do call me," he tells Nikki tenderly. Nikki is surprised by the softness in his attitude.
She nods her head. With a heavy heart, Nikki watches him walk towards the door.
When he reaches the door, he stops and turning back stares at her.
There is pain and yearning in their eyes.
Then Abhi turns and leaves. The pangs of separation makes Nikki sad. Yet she was happy with the consolation that Abhi cared for her.
At the end of the working day, the hospital staff, are getting ready to leave Sanjeevani. The nurse tells Nikki that Dr. Modi has called her to his cabin.
Wondering now what Abhi has in store for her, Nikki knocks on his door and enters.
Abhi who was standing in front of his desk turns and gives her a cold look.
“Dr. Modi, you wanted to see me?” Nikki tried to sound as professional as she could.
“Dr. Nikita,” Abhi says with venom, “you will never change in life, would you? You are still playing games with me!”
"Excuse me, what do you mean ? Nikki asks him in bewilderment.
" Don't pretend,” Abhi raises his voice angrily. “I know you are supporting Suman Lata, in troubling me"
“I don't know what you are talking about,” Nikki feigns ignorance.
“Typical of you,” Abhi taunts, “ you will never admit to your faults. You play games and then you pretend you are innocent.
“I am not playing any games,” Nikki retorts “You are the one who thinks has all authority to do anything with anyone's life.”
Angered by her accusation, Abhi moves closer to her.
“What do you mean ?” he growls fiercely.
His hand accidentally hits the paper weight lying on the desk. It falls on Nikki's middle toe.
Nikki howls in and slumps down on a chair nearby. She tries to reach her toe and finds it bleeding.
Horrified, Abhi goes down on his knees and tries to look at Nikki's toe. Darting an angry glance, she flings his hand away from her. Abhi forcebly holds her leg. Nikki tries to free her leg from his grasp.
"Sit quietly !" he reprimands sternly holding firmly on to her foot.
Examining the bleeding toe, he slowly removes her shoe. Going behind his desk, he pulls out the medical kit. He goes to Nikki and starts cleaning up the blood on her toe.
“Oww, Oww,” Nikki cries in pain.
“Is it very painfully,” Abhi asks tenderly.
"No! I am faking it" Nikki hits back in irritation.
Abhi continues cleaning the wound.
“Lets check how how bad the pain is Nikki, can you stand ?” Standing up, he offers his hand to her.
Reluctantly taking his hand, Nikki stands up. The moment her foot touches the ground she cries out in pain and falls against him. He quickly put supporting arms around her. They stare at each other. However, Nikki winces in pain again and Abhi loosens his grip.
Holding her by the arm he examines the toe again.
“We need an X Ray,” he tells her.
He calls for a wheelchair. Nikki is taken for an XRay. According to the reports, she has a hairline fracture. Reading it, Abhi feels guilty.
“I am sorry about this,” he apologises softly.
“Yeah it seems to be your hobby. First you give pain and then try to put a balm on it,” she taunts.
After Nikki is given the required treatment and a crutch for moving around, Abhi offers to drop her home.
Sitting in the car, Nikki can’t help think, some pain are blessings in disguise. It is because of this fracture she is sitting here beside Abhi who is not angry or cold with her anymore. Infact, he is even more considerate and caring.
She glances sideways at him, their eyes meet and then feeling awkward, both quickly turn away. Till they reach her home, they keep stealing glances at each other.
When they reach her place, Nikki gets off the car. She puts out the crutch and with its support, she attempts to stand up.
Unable to see it, Abhi goes over to her sand carries her in his arms.
“Its okay, I'll manage" Nikki protests feebly.
Giving her a wry look, Abhi continues to carry her. Nikki holds on to his neck for support. As he strides towards the house, with Nikki in arms, they keep looking shyly at each other.
Abhi recollects how the carried, the bhang hit Nikki, in his arms during Holi.
When Nikki's maid opens the door, she is surprised to find Abhi carrying Nikki in his arms.
“Your Nikki Madam, is injured,” he informs her. “Go and get the crutch and her shoes from the car.
He then carries Nikki to her room. As he was about to put Nikki down on her bed, his leg bangs against the side of the bed and he trips. Nikki gets jerked and feeling herself going off balance, she falls on the bed, pulling Abhi with her. Abhi manages to hold her firmly.
They find themselves drowning into each other. The warmth of the other’s breath makes their senses go dizzy. They begin to breathe heavily.
"Didi do you want something ?" the maid’s intervention tear them apart from each other.
“No No Nothing,” Nikki tries to compose herself.
Abhi straightens himself and stands up abruptly.
“If you have any problem or need anything, do call me," he tells Nikki tenderly. Nikki is surprised by the softness in his attitude.
She nods her head. With a heavy heart, Nikki watches him walk towards the door.
When he reaches the door, he stops and turning back stares at her.
There is pain and yearning in their eyes.
Then Abhi turns and leaves. The pangs of separation makes Nikki sad. Yet she was happy with the consolation that Abhi cared for her.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
SCENE 1
This scene was visualised by me and posted on IF on 7th July 2009 after the nerdish Suman Lata's entry in AN's life post Abhi's pool humilation. (Please refer to the Synopsis)
I was thinking, if the new entry Suman was more of a level headed assistant to Abhi, than a nerd, coming with a great recommendation from someone he respects and he finds her worthy enough to respect . Perhaps then something like this could happen between the 3 of them.)
As Abhi is on his way out of Sanjeevani he bumps into Suman who is waiting for a taxi. It was pretty late so he offers to drop her which she gratefully accepts.
In the car, she tells him since the renovations in guest house is still incomplete, Nikki sweetly gave her an offer to stay at her place. So she will be staying with Nikki for few days.
Meanwhile Armaan, Riddhima, Atul, Anjali and Muskaan drag a reluctant Nikki to a pub.
Realising she needs to call up Suman and inform her she’ll be late, Nikki goes to a corner and calls up Suman.
“Hi Suman, I am going to be a late today. My friends insisted that I should join them in celebration so I am at this Paradise pub. Don’t wait up for me.”
“No problem, Nikki. You enjoy yourself,” Abhi who was driving, stiffens at the mention of Nikki.
"Oh, No" exclaims Nikki watching Muskaan being surrounded by four indecent looking men.
“What happened Nikki?” Abhi looks up sharply hearing Suman’s worried voice. “Is everything alright?” Suman continues asking with concern.
Suman, I’ll call you back. Looks like there is some trouble,” she disconnects abruptly.
“Nikki, Nikki…” Suman calls out worriedly, but she hears the disconnected tone.
Armaan and the rest of the interns tell the men to stop troubling Muskaan, but they don’t listen. Nikki joins them in objecting. A huge argument ensues between the men and the interns.
The men come one strongly and there is a fist fight between them and Armaan. Atul was badly beaten up by the boys. Feeling sorry for him, Anjali quickly attends to his wounds. The men have surrounded Armaan and started beating him too. Riddhima and Nikki try pulling them from Armaan.
One of the hoodlums, draws out a knife. He lunges forward to thrust it in Armaan's back. He is unable to move as a strong hand has gripped him tightly
“Only cowards attack from behind,” Abhi growls as he takes the knife from the boy’s hand. He punches him hard on the face.
Nikki’s face lights up seeing Abhi.
Armaan and Abhi take on the men.
As they are fighting, one boy punches Abhi in the jaw.
“Abhi,” Nikki screams in pain.
Surprised to hear her scream, Suman turns towards Nikki. There is tears of pain and panic on her face.
Abhimanyu returns a hard punch to the boy and turns to look at Nikki. Their eyes meet. His were cold and steely while there was pain and tears in them.
Watching them staring at each other, a faint realization smile springs up on her lips.
Dr. Shashank enters with the police come and they take the hoodlums away..
Reluctantly Armaan thanks Abhi for saving his life. Abhi coldly nods his acceptance. The other interns too thank Abhi.
Dr. Shashank takes Armaan, Riddhima and Anjali in his car. Abhi offers to drop the rest.
In the car, Suman was seated next to Abhi, Atul and Muskaan sit behind her, while Nikki sits behind Abhi.
"Dr. Modi, thank you for saving us,” Muskaan tells Abhi. “You saved us inspite of us treating you badly.”
"Yes Dr. Modi,” quips in Atul. “We are really sorry for our behviour and thanks for saving us"
"Its ok Doctors,” Abhi says with a shake of his head, “I just did my duty. You are my interns and I do have some duties towards all of you. "
Nikki’s hand has turned clammy. She slowly looks up at Abhi and finds him watching her through the driving mirror. Their eyes clash. Feeling awkward Nikki turns her gaze out of the window.
"Dr. Modi what an entry you had,” through her action, Muskaan was demonstrating Abhi's entry "like the Hero in films"
Everyone smile.
“If you had a girlfriend, she would have been totally fida over you, today,” Abhi and Nikki automatically look at each other through the mirror.
"Dr. Modi don’t you have a girlfriend hidden somewhere?” Atul jokes. “Don’t tell me you haven’t fallen in love with anyone!
His words make Nikki’s heart very heavy. She turns sad eyes to Abhi. His jaws were clenched. He tightens his grip on the steering wheel.
“Dr. Atul, to me Love is a useless thing. I believe it is just a a weakness. Someone people take it as their right, an opportunity to trample over you and I will never give anyone this right ever.” His steely eyes pierces through Nikki. Tears well up in her eyes. Swallowing a lump in her throat she looks out of the window.
Abhi first drops of Muskaan and then Atul. The car was filled with a glaring tension. Trying to lighten the uncomfortable silence, Suman would try to throw in some funny joke or relate a funny incident. However, her attempts would be met by formal feeble smiles from Abhi and Nikki.
“Dr. Modi, looks like you and Dr. Nikita don’t know each other too well inspite of working in the same hospital,” Abhi and Nikki look at her confused. “You hardly speak to each other,” explains Suman.
Lucky for them, they had reached Nikki’s place and so, were saved to give a befitting reply.
“Dr. Modi, why don’t you come in and clean up the bleeding lip?” offers Suman Lata. Nikki looks anxiously and earnestly at him.
“No thank you,” Abhi declines with a smile. “It is a very small thing I'll take care of it when I get home.”
Nikki is disappointed.
“Do take care of it,”Suman tells him. “Thanks for dropping us home,”
“My pleasure,” Abhi smiles at him. Suman gets off the car.
Nikki too opens the car door. Not looking directly at him, she says, “Thank you,” and gets off the car.
Without a glance at her, Abhi drives off. Nikki’s eyes is moist with unshed tears. She keeps staring at the car till it is out of sight.
"Dr Abhimanyu, Dr. Nikita, without speaking anything, you both have said so much. What you both want to show everyone is very different from what you both feel for each other. I need to find out exactly what you both feel for each other and I will,” Having made up her mind she smiles.
***************
Finding Nikki looking sad, Suman deliberately barges into her room.
“Ooh, this Abhimanyu Modi is really something isn’t he ?” she tells Nikki.
"Yes ! Really !” Nikki says in irritation. “ Don't know what he thinks of himself !”
"Oh today, He took my heart,” Suman says dreamily.
"Excuse me ?" Nikki was stunned.
“I think I am falling for him. Do you know if he has someone in his life? Please, please tell me Nikki.”
Nikki can’t believe her ears.
“Hhh how do i know ?” she stammers. “I am only an intern and he is my senior"
“Oh I see!” Suman pretends. “Anyways, why should I care ? Once if Suman has her sights on someone she'll do anything to get him.” Nikki was in despair. Her Abhi is being eyed by someone else? She felt as if her world is crumbling down.
“Nikki, you are a really sweet person,” Suman continues. “I've grown so fond of you. Won't you help me with Abhimanyu ? I'll always be grateful to you" she begged.
"But, but Suman he is really khadoos, he doesn't look at girls from that angle,” Nikki tries her best to avert Suman’s intention.
"So what ? what he never did before doesn't mean he won't do now ! I will find a way to get through him" Suman was adamant.
“Nikki you are completely gone now,” Nikki’s mind is wandering now. “First it was so difficult to handle Abhi’s anger towards her and now this Suman problem. Do something Nikki, Do something or you will lose Abhi.” her mind keeps prodding her
“OK Done! Operation-Abhimanyu-Suman will henceforth commence and you Dr. Nikita will be my powerforce.” Suman was all charged up. “You will help me gain victory!” she hugs a dumbfounded Nikki.
She thinks “Now I would like to see, Dr. Abhimanyu Modi-Dr. Nikita Malhotra, How long you two will run away from each other?. Pleased with her intention, she winks.
Over the next few days, Suman manages to get close to Abhi and make him feel comfortable in her company. He was happy to have someone who treated him nicely and in whom he could fearlessly confide in.
His anger seemed to be slowly fading away. He even started overlooking Nikki’s mistakes and no longer picked on her. On the other hand, Nikki, is even more unhappy with this development. She preferred his yelling and scolding than this indifference and civility to her.
One day Nikki enters Abhi's cabin and is shocked to see the sight in front of her. Abhi, was bending over Suman who was standing infront of his desk. Nikki’s heart breaks into pieces. She felt as if she was on pins and needles.
Hearing the door open, Abhi and Suman turn around and find Nikki standing there. Their eyes meet. Nikki gives him a cold look and for a moment Abhi is uncomfortable.
Going over to his seat, he says "Come in Dr. Nikita"
Completely heartbroken, Nikki tried to put up a brave front. She didn’t want Abhi to see her pain
“I'm sorry, I can come back later,” she tells them.
"No please come in," Suman stops her. “I have something to say to both of you.”
What Nikki did not know was while talking to Abhi, Suman accidentally dropped a pile of papers lying on Abhi’s desk on to the floor. Abhi went around and going on his haunches, began to help her in collecting the paper. After collecting the papers they stood up.
Suman was adjusting the papers on the desk, while Abhi stood there holding the rest of the papers. While Suman kept dusting the the papers on the desk, one of the paper clips suddenly popped out and flew straight into Abhi's pocket. Abhi and Suman were first stunned and then burst out laughing. As they were laughing, they bent forward and their heads clashed. At that very moment Nikki entered. All she could see Abhi's back and he was bending over Suman.
“I am going to see my parents in Lonavla over the weekend.” Suman tells Abhi and Nikki. “ I would like both of you to come.”
Nikki and Abhi look at each other.
"But..But…." they strutter in unison.
"My father would be able to give us some advise for the new project," Suman continued.
" I don’t think I am needed,” Nikki mumbles
.
"No you are a part of the project so you are very much needed,” Suman tells her. “ Please, don't say No." Suman pleads with them.
Abhi and Nikki find it difficult to refuse her and nod their agreement.
"Good,” Suman was pleased “So tomorrow is Friday. Tomorrow night, we will leave from Sanjeevani in your car, Dr. Modi. I hope its okay with you.”
“Yeah that’s fine!” confirms Abhi.
**************
Friday Night, Abhimanyu reaches the parking lot and sees Nikita waiting for him beside his car. He can't help stealing a few glances at her till he sees she has spotted him.
Going next to her he asks, "Where is Suman?'
"I don’t know.” Nikki shrugs. She left early. Perhaps she is waiting in the house for us.
“Fine, sit in the car,” Abhi tells her.
Sitting in the car, Nikki struggles with the seat belt. They are reminded of the times, Nikki had problems with the belt and Abhi would end up helping her.
Right now , there was an unnerving silence in the car.
Abhi is trying his best not to look at her. Nervously, glancing sideways at him, Nikki was struggling with the belt. To her relief, finally the belt got clasped. Both breathe a sigh of relief. Abhi then puts the car into gear and drives off.
Just before reaching Nikki’s place, Abhi receives a call from Suman.
"Dr. Abhimanyu, I am so so sorry, I could not. inform you since you were busy in a meeting. For some reason, which I am not aware of, my parents wanted me to come a bit early, so they sent my cousin to pick me up. I am nearing Lonavla right now. You and Nikki will have to come on your own.
“Oh how can we come there without you….”
" I am so sorry for this,” Suman apologises “please, please don't ditch me, please come or else I'll feel you are upset with me. The battery of my cell phone is running low, so please pick up Dr. Nikita and come to Lonavla. I have smsed the address to you"
Before Abhi can say anything further she abruptly disconnects.
“What happened ?” Nikki asks him.
“She is already in Lonavla, we need to go on our own,” he informs her.
"Why do we have to go on our own?” Nikki tells him sulkily “ You go alone, I am not going!"
“This is a favourite habit of yours,” Abhi tells her sarcastically “ Leave someone in the lurch.” Nikki glares at him
“Do you realize how bad Suman will feel? She is such a sweet person.”
“Yeah, “ Nikki says sheepishly. “I don’t want Suman to feel bad.”
They stop to eat, at a little dhaba, on the way.
The roads are dark. Rain is lashing down heavily against the car. Nikki begins to feel cold. The uncomfortable silence in the car and the proximity with the man she loves, makes her nervous. Abhi can sense her nervousness. She slowly begins to shiver, but, tries to not let Abhi see it. However, Abhi notices it and reduces the airconditioner of the car.
"If only our bags were not in the boot. Atleast, I I could have got something warmer to put on,” Nikki is thinking. “Now, If I ask him to stop he might just flare up. So might as well sit quietly.”
To her surprise Abhi stops the car suddenly. Nikki looks questioningly at him. Holding her gaze, he puts out his hand to the backseat and pulls out a coat. He then gives it to her. Nikki hesitates to take it. After holding the coat for a few good seconds, with a shake of his head in annoyance, he wraps the coat over her.
"Thank you,” Nikki mumbles feebly.
Abhi turns and sets the car in motion.
Nikki can feel Abhi's warmth in the the coat. She leans back and happily closes her eyes.
Finally they arrive at their destination. The house seemed kind of dark with a very faint light coming from it. Sitting in the car, Nikki and Abhi wonder if they are at a right place. Nikki looks out of the window. She finds a face staring at her. Horrified, she screams loudly. Shivering, she turns buries her head into Abhi's chest.
Abhi’s hands automatically go around her protectively.
"What happened?” he asks with concern.
Nikki keeps clinging on to him. Without looking up, she manges to point a finger towards her window.
Abhi rolls down the window and finds an elderly man looking at them.
“Saahab, you have reached!” he sounded relieved.
Hearing him, Nikki slowly breaks away from Abhi. They look awkwardly at each other.
"Please come in,".the man invites them
“Is Suman ji in ?" Abhi asks him.
“No, she isn’t there.”
Surprised, Abhi & Nikki look at each other.
“She has left a note inside for you,” the man continues.
After they go into the house, the man hands over the note to Abhi. The note read,
"Dr. Abhimanyu, I am so sorry. My favourite cousin has suddenly decided to get married and my family kept this as a surprise from me. He is getting engaged today and so all of us have gone to Khandala. We will be staying there overnight. I am so sorry about this. Please make yourselves comfortable. If you need anything ask Hari, he'll help you. We shall meet tomorrow. Bye. Suman”
Abhi hands over the letter to Nikki who reads it . They stare nervously at each other.
“I will keep your bags in the guest rooms. He points upward, to two rooms adjacent to each other. After putting their luggage into their rooms, he asks them if they would like to have anything to which they say No. He then tells them he is in the backside and if they need anything do call him.
Abhi and Nikki thank him.
After he leaves, the room is filled with silence.
Abhi flops down on the couch and leans back. Finding the remote, he switches on the the television. Nikki is annoyed looking at him sitting so comfortable.
"You seem to be very comfortable out here Dr. Modi,” she tells him in annoyance.
“Excuse Me?” Abhi is confused at her annoyance.
“Well, Well, why not ? After all it is your home? Isn’t it ? " she taunts him further.
She herself doesn't know why is she upset with him. Is it because she is nervous ? "
What is your problem ?” Abhi asks her calmly “ You seem tired, go to your room and sleep. Goodnight".
Nikki is seething hearing his casual tone.
“Why don’t you go and sleep ? You go! I will sit her and watch television,” she says stubbornly.
She tries to grab the remote from Abhi who manages to dodge her. His half amused look gets her even more worked up. She gives up her attempt of pulling the remote from him.
Folding hand across her chest, she sulks.
“I don’t know why I got taken in by Suman’s words and listened to her. She called us here and she, herself, has vanished.”
Abhi slowly rises from the couch and goes towards Nikki.
“Poor thing, she didn’t do it on purpose,” he tries to reason with her. She herself didn’t know anything. She is a sweet person, Very caring and helpful. Wish she was here"
That was the last straw ! The cabin scene between Abhi and Suman flashes in front of Nikki’s eyes. Jealousy overtakes her completely.
"Poor thing? Poor thing my foot!” she lashes out at a confused and stunned Abhi.
The cabin scene keeps flashing before her eyes increasing her hyperness.
“Feeling sorry for her are you? Missing her ? If that is the case why don’t you drive to Khandala and be with her. What are you doing here, then?”
Abhi's face turns a scarlet red.
“Enough, Nikita, Enough!” Abhi flares grabbing her by her shoulders. “Enough Or else ? he growls fiercely.
"Or else? Or else, what will you do ?" Nikki's challenges him her eyes flashing with anger.
Abhi shakes his head in disgust.
“You know what ? We both cannot ever stay peaceful under one roof,” His eyes blazing he leaves her abruptly.
Picking up the car keys lying on the table near by, he walks out of the house.
Nikki watches in stunned silence as he walks off.
Coming to her senses, she quickly runs out to stop him. To her dismay she finds he has already driven off.
Tears flowing down her cheeks, she goes inside and sits on the couch.
Its 11 pm. "Oh God! Where has Abhi gone ?” she worriedly wonders “What has she done ? In a fit of jealousy and insanity she drove him out into this horrible weather. Hope he is fine. God, please, please get him back soon.” she tearfully prays.
Consumed with anger, Abhi is speeding away. A speeding lorry, coming from the opposite side, makes him swerve the car and avoid an accident. He pulls his car over to a corner and stops. “Phew, that was close.” he breathes a sigh of relief.
His mind wanders off to Nikki. “What is wrong with Nikki ? Why is she always angry with me ? She is close to Suman and yet why did she speak like that about her. It was as if she was possessed with anger and jealousy. Jealousy ?” Abhi ponders on the word.
“Could Nikki be jealous of my closeness to Suman? Does it mean she has feelings for me ? Is there a hope for us?” his heart can’t help yearn for her.
“Abhimanyu !” he chides, “ Have you lost it? You've been hurt badly twice and you are again falling for the same trap? Stop being a Loser. Get a hold of yourself.” He pauses and looks out into the dark stormy night.
“What the hell do I do ! Whenever I am with her I am drawn to her. I just want to take her into my arms and never let her go. How do I keep myself away from her ? Why is Life so tough?” Frustrated with the thoughts he runs a hand through his hair.
Nikki is anxiously pacing the room. Every now and then she would peep outside to see if Abhi's car is entering the driveway. The lashing of the rain outside makes her heart beat even faster. Time slowly passes. Half an a hour.......45 minutes ........ One Hour .....
Nikki is restless. Abhi has still not come. Fortunately, it had stopped raining.
The sudden ring of the phone in the other room makes her jump up with a start. She sees Hari picking up the phone.
"Really?” she hears him say. “Where ? Oh I see! “
Nikki is wondering who is he talking to. “Okay Fine, Fine,” saying it he puts the phone down.”
Nikki asks him what happened.
"Oh my brother who works a few kms away called to say he was late in reaching home because there was an accident on the way. Some car collided with a truck,” he informs her
“Acc… accident ? Nikki begins to panic. “Whose ? Where?” she asks desperately.
“I really don’t know,” Hari tells her.
“Abhi…Abhi…” Nikki is jittery Fear taking over her, she runs out of the house.
“Memsaab where are you going?” a worried Hari hurriedly follows. “Its dark and the roads are not in good conditions too.”
“I don’t know, I really don’t know , but I have to go,” she tells him frantically. She sees a torch lying nearby. She picks it up and runs out of the gate.
Hari is wondering what to do. Should he call up Suman madam? Just then he sees Abhimanyu's car entering the gates and he rushes towards the car.
“Sahab where were you ?” he asks Abhi. “Madam was very worried about you, She just ran out in search of you.”
“What?” Abhi is stunned “What are you saying? So late? In this weather, why didn’t you stop her. Fear and concern makes his heart beat fast.
“I am speaking the truth, Sahab. Madam was desperately waiting for you, when I informed her about the accident. Hearing it, she got frightened and went in search of you. I tried to make her understand not to go, but she just would’nt listen. She kept calling your name and ran out.”
Abhi could not believe his ears. Fear on his face, he begins to reverse the car. “ I’ll look out for her,” he tells Hari " and drives towards the gates.
Nikki has run a a little further and wonders if she is on the right path. Should she have gone the other side of the gates? The roads are dark and there are trees on either side of the road. Which path should she really follow?” she is undecided. Suddenly she hears some rustling sound and begins to shiver. She flashes the torch around. Nothing. She is terrified. She breaks out in cold sweat. Once again she hears a sound and felt like something shiny moving behind the trees. Consumed with fear, she turns and runs back in the direction from where she came.
Nearing the gates of the house, she senses something huge, flashing with lights coming towards. She knew she was about to be hit but could not move. Paralysed with fear, she crosses her hands over her eyes.
Driving out of the gates, Abhi too, senses something has suddenly come in front of the car and stomps on the breaks. The car screeches to a halt just in time. Abhi is jolted forward.
He looks up and finds Nikki standing in front of the car, hands crossed over eyes as if to shield the glare of the flashlights. He closes his eyes in relief.
Nikki realises she is not hit. She removes her hands slowly from her eyes and sees Abhi in the car. Watching him get off the car, Nikki’s heart is filled with happiness.
Abhi storms towards her. Nikki wanted to run and hug him. However, he quietly walks towards her and holds her hand. He looks down at her , eyes glinting in quiet anger. Nikki nervously lowers her eyes. Holding her hand, Abhi slowly he drags her into the house.
When they are inside the room, Abhi shuts the door firmly.
"Have you gone mad?” he yells angrily at her. “ Have you lost it? In this stormy weather, in a new place, in the middle of the night, you run off to nowhere ?" He kept shaking her shoulders with emphasis on every word. Nikki was nervous.
“Do you even realise how dangerous that could be ? You almost came under my car?” his fear took the form of anger. “Why ? Why do you do such such stupid things ? Are you mad ?" he yells.
"Yes, Yes I have gone mad !” she retorts in anger. “Don't know why but I lose my complete senses when it comes to you.
Abhi is taken aback by her return onslaught
“But, but, What were you afraid of Dr. Abhimanyu Modi?” Nikki continues sarcastically. “ That something bad had happened to me ?" she challenges
“If something bad had to happen to me, were you worried....." , she deliberately pauses. "were you worried you'll lose your punching bag?"
Feeling guilty for losing his temper on her, Abhi slowly loosens his grip on her arms.
"That's your fear right. Fear if anything happens to me, on whom would you let out all your anger and frustrations,” painful tears sting into her eyes. “Whenever you find the opportunity, you love to insult me, you love to get angry with me.”
Encompassed, by guilt, Abhi puts out his hand to calm her.
“Nikki, I am…”
Nikki tearfully pushes his hands away and retraces her steps backwards as he slowly moves towards her.
“How long? How long Abhi, will you be angry with me? What should I do to lessen your pain, your anger?” she asks him, helplessness on her face.
“I’ve tried asking you for forgiveness, done everything possibly that I could to take away your anger, your pain.”
“Nikki, Nikki…” Abhi softly butts in .
“Now I cannot bear it anymore Abhi,” Nikki chokes. “I just can’t bear it. I can’t bear to see you looking so unhappy. I don’t mind taking your anger, your insults if it would lessen your pain, if it makes you happy. But then, why don’t you look happy?. I, want to see you happy always. But you are not. What else should I do to make you happy?” Nikki asks in desperation.
As she was going backwards while talking, her back touches the door. She turns. Finding a chance for escape, she tries to open the door. However, Abhi's arm comes over her and firmly pushes the door shut.
Nikki can feel his warm breath over her. An tingling sensation overtakes her body. She finds she was loosing control of herself.
Abhi slowly caresses her arm.
"I am sorry,” he whispers into her ears. “ I am really very sorry.”
Nikki’s heart begins to beat rapidly. He buries his face in her neck and he continues to whisper.
" I used my anger to let out all my frustrations, my fears, my insecurities. I know I hurt you badly. I am really sorry"
Slowly he tries to turn her towards him. Trying to hold on to her sanity, she refuses to look at him.
He lifts up her face with his finger.
"Please forgive me Nikki,” he pleads wiping the tears from her eyes.
"If something had happened to you today, I would have died.” He closes his eyes in fear as the sight of Nikki coming in front of his car flashes before him.
"Yeah that is why you were yelling at me.” Nikki sulks. “Here I was so worried for you and inspite of being afraid of the dark, I went in search of you and ...."
Abhi smiles at her futile attempts to be angry with him.
"Yeah Why ?" Why did you do that" he asks her, blinking his eyes.
Surprised at his audacity, she looks up at him and sees a glint of mischief in his eyes.
"Because I hate you !" she shoots back.
Abhi smiles. "Chalo, some progress,” he teasingly pulls her closer to him. atleast you opened up your feelings.
Nikki voluntarily moves closer to him.
"I hate you Abhimanyu Modi,” she looks fondly into his face. “You drive me crazy! I hate you.”
“Looking down, intensely into her face, Abhi says "The feeling is oh so mutual Dr. Ni kk-i-ta"
They both smile. Slowly the smile vanishes as they find themselves drowning into each other’s eyes. Abhi is enchanted by the tenderness in her eyes. He lifts his fingers and caresses her face. Delighted, Nikki closes her eyes. Cradling her face, in both his hands, he bends down to kiss her.
"Abhi," Nikki whispers, wrapping her arms around his neck.
“Hmmm,” he responds
"I love you......" Nikki manages to say in between the onslaught of his passionate kisses.
Hearing her say that, Abhi lifts his head. He looks lovingly into her eyes.
"I love you too," he tells her warmly.
"I promise not to hurt you again Abhi,” Nikki tells him softly. “I won't trouble you anymore." Abhi smiles.
"Thats really going to be very difficult for you to do, so don't tax yourself"
“Are you teasing me ?” she playfully punches him on the chest.
Abhi laughs out aloud.
“Yes,” he says with a naughty gleam.
Nikki smiles and puts her head on his chest. He wraps his arms tightly around her.
Happy and contented in his embrace, Nikki excitedly says "I am so happy I can scream and tell the world I l love you.”
She feels Abhi stiffening. Realisation dawns on her.
“Abhi,” she tenderly holds his face, “I know my not saying anything that night caused you a lot of pain. I owe you an apology, especially, in front of everyone. I want to tell all my friends what you really mean to me.”
Abhi smiles understandingly at her.
"Don't bother,” he tells her with the shake of his head. “ It doesn't matter any more. All I need in life is you and the assurance of your love. Now that I have it, nothing else really matters. Things will automatically fall in place.”
Besides" he pauses mischief dancing in his eyes. "lets keep them all guessing. Till then, we can enjoy our secret rendezvous” Nikki smiles shyly at him. He takes her back into his arms and holds her tightly, as if, never wanting her to go.
The darkness has gone........ A new dawn has begun for them.
CONCLUDED
I was thinking, if the new entry Suman was more of a level headed assistant to Abhi, than a nerd, coming with a great recommendation from someone he respects and he finds her worthy enough to respect . Perhaps then something like this could happen between the 3 of them.)
As Abhi is on his way out of Sanjeevani he bumps into Suman who is waiting for a taxi. It was pretty late so he offers to drop her which she gratefully accepts.
In the car, she tells him since the renovations in guest house is still incomplete, Nikki sweetly gave her an offer to stay at her place. So she will be staying with Nikki for few days.
Meanwhile Armaan, Riddhima, Atul, Anjali and Muskaan drag a reluctant Nikki to a pub.
Realising she needs to call up Suman and inform her she’ll be late, Nikki goes to a corner and calls up Suman.
“Hi Suman, I am going to be a late today. My friends insisted that I should join them in celebration so I am at this Paradise pub. Don’t wait up for me.”
“No problem, Nikki. You enjoy yourself,” Abhi who was driving, stiffens at the mention of Nikki.
"Oh, No" exclaims Nikki watching Muskaan being surrounded by four indecent looking men.
“What happened Nikki?” Abhi looks up sharply hearing Suman’s worried voice. “Is everything alright?” Suman continues asking with concern.
Suman, I’ll call you back. Looks like there is some trouble,” she disconnects abruptly.
“Nikki, Nikki…” Suman calls out worriedly, but she hears the disconnected tone.
Armaan and the rest of the interns tell the men to stop troubling Muskaan, but they don’t listen. Nikki joins them in objecting. A huge argument ensues between the men and the interns.
The men come one strongly and there is a fist fight between them and Armaan. Atul was badly beaten up by the boys. Feeling sorry for him, Anjali quickly attends to his wounds. The men have surrounded Armaan and started beating him too. Riddhima and Nikki try pulling them from Armaan.
One of the hoodlums, draws out a knife. He lunges forward to thrust it in Armaan's back. He is unable to move as a strong hand has gripped him tightly
“Only cowards attack from behind,” Abhi growls as he takes the knife from the boy’s hand. He punches him hard on the face.
Nikki’s face lights up seeing Abhi.
Armaan and Abhi take on the men.
As they are fighting, one boy punches Abhi in the jaw.
“Abhi,” Nikki screams in pain.
Surprised to hear her scream, Suman turns towards Nikki. There is tears of pain and panic on her face.
Abhimanyu returns a hard punch to the boy and turns to look at Nikki. Their eyes meet. His were cold and steely while there was pain and tears in them.
Watching them staring at each other, a faint realization smile springs up on her lips.
Dr. Shashank enters with the police come and they take the hoodlums away..
Reluctantly Armaan thanks Abhi for saving his life. Abhi coldly nods his acceptance. The other interns too thank Abhi.
Dr. Shashank takes Armaan, Riddhima and Anjali in his car. Abhi offers to drop the rest.
In the car, Suman was seated next to Abhi, Atul and Muskaan sit behind her, while Nikki sits behind Abhi.
"Dr. Modi, thank you for saving us,” Muskaan tells Abhi. “You saved us inspite of us treating you badly.”
"Yes Dr. Modi,” quips in Atul. “We are really sorry for our behviour and thanks for saving us"
"Its ok Doctors,” Abhi says with a shake of his head, “I just did my duty. You are my interns and I do have some duties towards all of you. "
Nikki’s hand has turned clammy. She slowly looks up at Abhi and finds him watching her through the driving mirror. Their eyes clash. Feeling awkward Nikki turns her gaze out of the window.
"Dr. Modi what an entry you had,” through her action, Muskaan was demonstrating Abhi's entry "like the Hero in films"
Everyone smile.
“If you had a girlfriend, she would have been totally fida over you, today,” Abhi and Nikki automatically look at each other through the mirror.
"Dr. Modi don’t you have a girlfriend hidden somewhere?” Atul jokes. “Don’t tell me you haven’t fallen in love with anyone!
His words make Nikki’s heart very heavy. She turns sad eyes to Abhi. His jaws were clenched. He tightens his grip on the steering wheel.
“Dr. Atul, to me Love is a useless thing. I believe it is just a a weakness. Someone people take it as their right, an opportunity to trample over you and I will never give anyone this right ever.” His steely eyes pierces through Nikki. Tears well up in her eyes. Swallowing a lump in her throat she looks out of the window.
Abhi first drops of Muskaan and then Atul. The car was filled with a glaring tension. Trying to lighten the uncomfortable silence, Suman would try to throw in some funny joke or relate a funny incident. However, her attempts would be met by formal feeble smiles from Abhi and Nikki.
“Dr. Modi, looks like you and Dr. Nikita don’t know each other too well inspite of working in the same hospital,” Abhi and Nikki look at her confused. “You hardly speak to each other,” explains Suman.
Lucky for them, they had reached Nikki’s place and so, were saved to give a befitting reply.
“Dr. Modi, why don’t you come in and clean up the bleeding lip?” offers Suman Lata. Nikki looks anxiously and earnestly at him.
“No thank you,” Abhi declines with a smile. “It is a very small thing I'll take care of it when I get home.”
Nikki is disappointed.
“Do take care of it,”Suman tells him. “Thanks for dropping us home,”
“My pleasure,” Abhi smiles at him. Suman gets off the car.
Nikki too opens the car door. Not looking directly at him, she says, “Thank you,” and gets off the car.
Without a glance at her, Abhi drives off. Nikki’s eyes is moist with unshed tears. She keeps staring at the car till it is out of sight.
"Dr Abhimanyu, Dr. Nikita, without speaking anything, you both have said so much. What you both want to show everyone is very different from what you both feel for each other. I need to find out exactly what you both feel for each other and I will,” Having made up her mind she smiles.
***************
Finding Nikki looking sad, Suman deliberately barges into her room.
“Ooh, this Abhimanyu Modi is really something isn’t he ?” she tells Nikki.
"Yes ! Really !” Nikki says in irritation. “ Don't know what he thinks of himself !”
"Oh today, He took my heart,” Suman says dreamily.
"Excuse me ?" Nikki was stunned.
“I think I am falling for him. Do you know if he has someone in his life? Please, please tell me Nikki.”
Nikki can’t believe her ears.
“Hhh how do i know ?” she stammers. “I am only an intern and he is my senior"
“Oh I see!” Suman pretends. “Anyways, why should I care ? Once if Suman has her sights on someone she'll do anything to get him.” Nikki was in despair. Her Abhi is being eyed by someone else? She felt as if her world is crumbling down.
“Nikki, you are a really sweet person,” Suman continues. “I've grown so fond of you. Won't you help me with Abhimanyu ? I'll always be grateful to you" she begged.
"But, but Suman he is really khadoos, he doesn't look at girls from that angle,” Nikki tries her best to avert Suman’s intention.
"So what ? what he never did before doesn't mean he won't do now ! I will find a way to get through him" Suman was adamant.
“Nikki you are completely gone now,” Nikki’s mind is wandering now. “First it was so difficult to handle Abhi’s anger towards her and now this Suman problem. Do something Nikki, Do something or you will lose Abhi.” her mind keeps prodding her
“OK Done! Operation-Abhimanyu-Suman will henceforth commence and you Dr. Nikita will be my powerforce.” Suman was all charged up. “You will help me gain victory!” she hugs a dumbfounded Nikki.
She thinks “Now I would like to see, Dr. Abhimanyu Modi-Dr. Nikita Malhotra, How long you two will run away from each other?. Pleased with her intention, she winks.
Over the next few days, Suman manages to get close to Abhi and make him feel comfortable in her company. He was happy to have someone who treated him nicely and in whom he could fearlessly confide in.
His anger seemed to be slowly fading away. He even started overlooking Nikki’s mistakes and no longer picked on her. On the other hand, Nikki, is even more unhappy with this development. She preferred his yelling and scolding than this indifference and civility to her.
One day Nikki enters Abhi's cabin and is shocked to see the sight in front of her. Abhi, was bending over Suman who was standing infront of his desk. Nikki’s heart breaks into pieces. She felt as if she was on pins and needles.
Hearing the door open, Abhi and Suman turn around and find Nikki standing there. Their eyes meet. Nikki gives him a cold look and for a moment Abhi is uncomfortable.
Going over to his seat, he says "Come in Dr. Nikita"
Completely heartbroken, Nikki tried to put up a brave front. She didn’t want Abhi to see her pain
“I'm sorry, I can come back later,” she tells them.
"No please come in," Suman stops her. “I have something to say to both of you.”
What Nikki did not know was while talking to Abhi, Suman accidentally dropped a pile of papers lying on Abhi’s desk on to the floor. Abhi went around and going on his haunches, began to help her in collecting the paper. After collecting the papers they stood up.
Suman was adjusting the papers on the desk, while Abhi stood there holding the rest of the papers. While Suman kept dusting the the papers on the desk, one of the paper clips suddenly popped out and flew straight into Abhi's pocket. Abhi and Suman were first stunned and then burst out laughing. As they were laughing, they bent forward and their heads clashed. At that very moment Nikki entered. All she could see Abhi's back and he was bending over Suman.
“I am going to see my parents in Lonavla over the weekend.” Suman tells Abhi and Nikki. “ I would like both of you to come.”
Nikki and Abhi look at each other.
"But..But…." they strutter in unison.
"My father would be able to give us some advise for the new project," Suman continued.
" I don’t think I am needed,” Nikki mumbles
.
"No you are a part of the project so you are very much needed,” Suman tells her. “ Please, don't say No." Suman pleads with them.
Abhi and Nikki find it difficult to refuse her and nod their agreement.
"Good,” Suman was pleased “So tomorrow is Friday. Tomorrow night, we will leave from Sanjeevani in your car, Dr. Modi. I hope its okay with you.”
“Yeah that’s fine!” confirms Abhi.
**************
Friday Night, Abhimanyu reaches the parking lot and sees Nikita waiting for him beside his car. He can't help stealing a few glances at her till he sees she has spotted him.
Going next to her he asks, "Where is Suman?'
"I don’t know.” Nikki shrugs. She left early. Perhaps she is waiting in the house for us.
“Fine, sit in the car,” Abhi tells her.
Sitting in the car, Nikki struggles with the seat belt. They are reminded of the times, Nikki had problems with the belt and Abhi would end up helping her.
Right now , there was an unnerving silence in the car.
Abhi is trying his best not to look at her. Nervously, glancing sideways at him, Nikki was struggling with the belt. To her relief, finally the belt got clasped. Both breathe a sigh of relief. Abhi then puts the car into gear and drives off.
Just before reaching Nikki’s place, Abhi receives a call from Suman.
"Dr. Abhimanyu, I am so so sorry, I could not. inform you since you were busy in a meeting. For some reason, which I am not aware of, my parents wanted me to come a bit early, so they sent my cousin to pick me up. I am nearing Lonavla right now. You and Nikki will have to come on your own.
“Oh how can we come there without you….”
" I am so sorry for this,” Suman apologises “please, please don't ditch me, please come or else I'll feel you are upset with me. The battery of my cell phone is running low, so please pick up Dr. Nikita and come to Lonavla. I have smsed the address to you"
Before Abhi can say anything further she abruptly disconnects.
“What happened ?” Nikki asks him.
“She is already in Lonavla, we need to go on our own,” he informs her.
"Why do we have to go on our own?” Nikki tells him sulkily “ You go alone, I am not going!"
“This is a favourite habit of yours,” Abhi tells her sarcastically “ Leave someone in the lurch.” Nikki glares at him
“Do you realize how bad Suman will feel? She is such a sweet person.”
“Yeah, “ Nikki says sheepishly. “I don’t want Suman to feel bad.”
They stop to eat, at a little dhaba, on the way.
The roads are dark. Rain is lashing down heavily against the car. Nikki begins to feel cold. The uncomfortable silence in the car and the proximity with the man she loves, makes her nervous. Abhi can sense her nervousness. She slowly begins to shiver, but, tries to not let Abhi see it. However, Abhi notices it and reduces the airconditioner of the car.
"If only our bags were not in the boot. Atleast, I I could have got something warmer to put on,” Nikki is thinking. “Now, If I ask him to stop he might just flare up. So might as well sit quietly.”
To her surprise Abhi stops the car suddenly. Nikki looks questioningly at him. Holding her gaze, he puts out his hand to the backseat and pulls out a coat. He then gives it to her. Nikki hesitates to take it. After holding the coat for a few good seconds, with a shake of his head in annoyance, he wraps the coat over her.
"Thank you,” Nikki mumbles feebly.
Abhi turns and sets the car in motion.
Nikki can feel Abhi's warmth in the the coat. She leans back and happily closes her eyes.
Finally they arrive at their destination. The house seemed kind of dark with a very faint light coming from it. Sitting in the car, Nikki and Abhi wonder if they are at a right place. Nikki looks out of the window. She finds a face staring at her. Horrified, she screams loudly. Shivering, she turns buries her head into Abhi's chest.
Abhi’s hands automatically go around her protectively.
"What happened?” he asks with concern.
Nikki keeps clinging on to him. Without looking up, she manges to point a finger towards her window.
Abhi rolls down the window and finds an elderly man looking at them.
“Saahab, you have reached!” he sounded relieved.
Hearing him, Nikki slowly breaks away from Abhi. They look awkwardly at each other.
"Please come in,".the man invites them
“Is Suman ji in ?" Abhi asks him.
“No, she isn’t there.”
Surprised, Abhi & Nikki look at each other.
“She has left a note inside for you,” the man continues.
After they go into the house, the man hands over the note to Abhi. The note read,
"Dr. Abhimanyu, I am so sorry. My favourite cousin has suddenly decided to get married and my family kept this as a surprise from me. He is getting engaged today and so all of us have gone to Khandala. We will be staying there overnight. I am so sorry about this. Please make yourselves comfortable. If you need anything ask Hari, he'll help you. We shall meet tomorrow. Bye. Suman”
Abhi hands over the letter to Nikki who reads it . They stare nervously at each other.
“I will keep your bags in the guest rooms. He points upward, to two rooms adjacent to each other. After putting their luggage into their rooms, he asks them if they would like to have anything to which they say No. He then tells them he is in the backside and if they need anything do call him.
Abhi and Nikki thank him.
After he leaves, the room is filled with silence.
Abhi flops down on the couch and leans back. Finding the remote, he switches on the the television. Nikki is annoyed looking at him sitting so comfortable.
"You seem to be very comfortable out here Dr. Modi,” she tells him in annoyance.
“Excuse Me?” Abhi is confused at her annoyance.
“Well, Well, why not ? After all it is your home? Isn’t it ? " she taunts him further.
She herself doesn't know why is she upset with him. Is it because she is nervous ? "
What is your problem ?” Abhi asks her calmly “ You seem tired, go to your room and sleep. Goodnight".
Nikki is seething hearing his casual tone.
“Why don’t you go and sleep ? You go! I will sit her and watch television,” she says stubbornly.
She tries to grab the remote from Abhi who manages to dodge her. His half amused look gets her even more worked up. She gives up her attempt of pulling the remote from him.
Folding hand across her chest, she sulks.
“I don’t know why I got taken in by Suman’s words and listened to her. She called us here and she, herself, has vanished.”
Abhi slowly rises from the couch and goes towards Nikki.
“Poor thing, she didn’t do it on purpose,” he tries to reason with her. She herself didn’t know anything. She is a sweet person, Very caring and helpful. Wish she was here"
That was the last straw ! The cabin scene between Abhi and Suman flashes in front of Nikki’s eyes. Jealousy overtakes her completely.
"Poor thing? Poor thing my foot!” she lashes out at a confused and stunned Abhi.
The cabin scene keeps flashing before her eyes increasing her hyperness.
“Feeling sorry for her are you? Missing her ? If that is the case why don’t you drive to Khandala and be with her. What are you doing here, then?”
Abhi's face turns a scarlet red.
“Enough, Nikita, Enough!” Abhi flares grabbing her by her shoulders. “Enough Or else ? he growls fiercely.
"Or else? Or else, what will you do ?" Nikki's challenges him her eyes flashing with anger.
Abhi shakes his head in disgust.
“You know what ? We both cannot ever stay peaceful under one roof,” His eyes blazing he leaves her abruptly.
Picking up the car keys lying on the table near by, he walks out of the house.
Nikki watches in stunned silence as he walks off.
Coming to her senses, she quickly runs out to stop him. To her dismay she finds he has already driven off.
Tears flowing down her cheeks, she goes inside and sits on the couch.
Its 11 pm. "Oh God! Where has Abhi gone ?” she worriedly wonders “What has she done ? In a fit of jealousy and insanity she drove him out into this horrible weather. Hope he is fine. God, please, please get him back soon.” she tearfully prays.
Consumed with anger, Abhi is speeding away. A speeding lorry, coming from the opposite side, makes him swerve the car and avoid an accident. He pulls his car over to a corner and stops. “Phew, that was close.” he breathes a sigh of relief.
His mind wanders off to Nikki. “What is wrong with Nikki ? Why is she always angry with me ? She is close to Suman and yet why did she speak like that about her. It was as if she was possessed with anger and jealousy. Jealousy ?” Abhi ponders on the word.
“Could Nikki be jealous of my closeness to Suman? Does it mean she has feelings for me ? Is there a hope for us?” his heart can’t help yearn for her.
“Abhimanyu !” he chides, “ Have you lost it? You've been hurt badly twice and you are again falling for the same trap? Stop being a Loser. Get a hold of yourself.” He pauses and looks out into the dark stormy night.
“What the hell do I do ! Whenever I am with her I am drawn to her. I just want to take her into my arms and never let her go. How do I keep myself away from her ? Why is Life so tough?” Frustrated with the thoughts he runs a hand through his hair.
Nikki is anxiously pacing the room. Every now and then she would peep outside to see if Abhi's car is entering the driveway. The lashing of the rain outside makes her heart beat even faster. Time slowly passes. Half an a hour.......45 minutes ........ One Hour .....
Nikki is restless. Abhi has still not come. Fortunately, it had stopped raining.
The sudden ring of the phone in the other room makes her jump up with a start. She sees Hari picking up the phone.
"Really?” she hears him say. “Where ? Oh I see! “
Nikki is wondering who is he talking to. “Okay Fine, Fine,” saying it he puts the phone down.”
Nikki asks him what happened.
"Oh my brother who works a few kms away called to say he was late in reaching home because there was an accident on the way. Some car collided with a truck,” he informs her
“Acc… accident ? Nikki begins to panic. “Whose ? Where?” she asks desperately.
“I really don’t know,” Hari tells her.
“Abhi…Abhi…” Nikki is jittery Fear taking over her, she runs out of the house.
“Memsaab where are you going?” a worried Hari hurriedly follows. “Its dark and the roads are not in good conditions too.”
“I don’t know, I really don’t know , but I have to go,” she tells him frantically. She sees a torch lying nearby. She picks it up and runs out of the gate.
Hari is wondering what to do. Should he call up Suman madam? Just then he sees Abhimanyu's car entering the gates and he rushes towards the car.
“Sahab where were you ?” he asks Abhi. “Madam was very worried about you, She just ran out in search of you.”
“What?” Abhi is stunned “What are you saying? So late? In this weather, why didn’t you stop her. Fear and concern makes his heart beat fast.
“I am speaking the truth, Sahab. Madam was desperately waiting for you, when I informed her about the accident. Hearing it, she got frightened and went in search of you. I tried to make her understand not to go, but she just would’nt listen. She kept calling your name and ran out.”
Abhi could not believe his ears. Fear on his face, he begins to reverse the car. “ I’ll look out for her,” he tells Hari " and drives towards the gates.
Nikki has run a a little further and wonders if she is on the right path. Should she have gone the other side of the gates? The roads are dark and there are trees on either side of the road. Which path should she really follow?” she is undecided. Suddenly she hears some rustling sound and begins to shiver. She flashes the torch around. Nothing. She is terrified. She breaks out in cold sweat. Once again she hears a sound and felt like something shiny moving behind the trees. Consumed with fear, she turns and runs back in the direction from where she came.
Nearing the gates of the house, she senses something huge, flashing with lights coming towards. She knew she was about to be hit but could not move. Paralysed with fear, she crosses her hands over her eyes.
Driving out of the gates, Abhi too, senses something has suddenly come in front of the car and stomps on the breaks. The car screeches to a halt just in time. Abhi is jolted forward.
He looks up and finds Nikki standing in front of the car, hands crossed over eyes as if to shield the glare of the flashlights. He closes his eyes in relief.
Nikki realises she is not hit. She removes her hands slowly from her eyes and sees Abhi in the car. Watching him get off the car, Nikki’s heart is filled with happiness.
Abhi storms towards her. Nikki wanted to run and hug him. However, he quietly walks towards her and holds her hand. He looks down at her , eyes glinting in quiet anger. Nikki nervously lowers her eyes. Holding her hand, Abhi slowly he drags her into the house.
When they are inside the room, Abhi shuts the door firmly.
"Have you gone mad?” he yells angrily at her. “ Have you lost it? In this stormy weather, in a new place, in the middle of the night, you run off to nowhere ?" He kept shaking her shoulders with emphasis on every word. Nikki was nervous.
“Do you even realise how dangerous that could be ? You almost came under my car?” his fear took the form of anger. “Why ? Why do you do such such stupid things ? Are you mad ?" he yells.
"Yes, Yes I have gone mad !” she retorts in anger. “Don't know why but I lose my complete senses when it comes to you.
Abhi is taken aback by her return onslaught
“But, but, What were you afraid of Dr. Abhimanyu Modi?” Nikki continues sarcastically. “ That something bad had happened to me ?" she challenges
“If something bad had to happen to me, were you worried....." , she deliberately pauses. "were you worried you'll lose your punching bag?"
Feeling guilty for losing his temper on her, Abhi slowly loosens his grip on her arms.
"That's your fear right. Fear if anything happens to me, on whom would you let out all your anger and frustrations,” painful tears sting into her eyes. “Whenever you find the opportunity, you love to insult me, you love to get angry with me.”
Encompassed, by guilt, Abhi puts out his hand to calm her.
“Nikki, I am…”
Nikki tearfully pushes his hands away and retraces her steps backwards as he slowly moves towards her.
“How long? How long Abhi, will you be angry with me? What should I do to lessen your pain, your anger?” she asks him, helplessness on her face.
“I’ve tried asking you for forgiveness, done everything possibly that I could to take away your anger, your pain.”
“Nikki, Nikki…” Abhi softly butts in .
“Now I cannot bear it anymore Abhi,” Nikki chokes. “I just can’t bear it. I can’t bear to see you looking so unhappy. I don’t mind taking your anger, your insults if it would lessen your pain, if it makes you happy. But then, why don’t you look happy?. I, want to see you happy always. But you are not. What else should I do to make you happy?” Nikki asks in desperation.
As she was going backwards while talking, her back touches the door. She turns. Finding a chance for escape, she tries to open the door. However, Abhi's arm comes over her and firmly pushes the door shut.
Nikki can feel his warm breath over her. An tingling sensation overtakes her body. She finds she was loosing control of herself.
Abhi slowly caresses her arm.
"I am sorry,” he whispers into her ears. “ I am really very sorry.”
Nikki’s heart begins to beat rapidly. He buries his face in her neck and he continues to whisper.
" I used my anger to let out all my frustrations, my fears, my insecurities. I know I hurt you badly. I am really sorry"
Slowly he tries to turn her towards him. Trying to hold on to her sanity, she refuses to look at him.
He lifts up her face with his finger.
"Please forgive me Nikki,” he pleads wiping the tears from her eyes.
"If something had happened to you today, I would have died.” He closes his eyes in fear as the sight of Nikki coming in front of his car flashes before him.
"Yeah that is why you were yelling at me.” Nikki sulks. “Here I was so worried for you and inspite of being afraid of the dark, I went in search of you and ...."
Abhi smiles at her futile attempts to be angry with him.
"Yeah Why ?" Why did you do that" he asks her, blinking his eyes.
Surprised at his audacity, she looks up at him and sees a glint of mischief in his eyes.
"Because I hate you !" she shoots back.
Abhi smiles. "Chalo, some progress,” he teasingly pulls her closer to him. atleast you opened up your feelings.
Nikki voluntarily moves closer to him.
"I hate you Abhimanyu Modi,” she looks fondly into his face. “You drive me crazy! I hate you.”
“Looking down, intensely into her face, Abhi says "The feeling is oh so mutual Dr. Ni kk-i-ta"
They both smile. Slowly the smile vanishes as they find themselves drowning into each other’s eyes. Abhi is enchanted by the tenderness in her eyes. He lifts his fingers and caresses her face. Delighted, Nikki closes her eyes. Cradling her face, in both his hands, he bends down to kiss her.
"Abhi," Nikki whispers, wrapping her arms around his neck.
“Hmmm,” he responds
"I love you......" Nikki manages to say in between the onslaught of his passionate kisses.
Hearing her say that, Abhi lifts his head. He looks lovingly into her eyes.
"I love you too," he tells her warmly.
"I promise not to hurt you again Abhi,” Nikki tells him softly. “I won't trouble you anymore." Abhi smiles.
"Thats really going to be very difficult for you to do, so don't tax yourself"
“Are you teasing me ?” she playfully punches him on the chest.
Abhi laughs out aloud.
“Yes,” he says with a naughty gleam.
Nikki smiles and puts her head on his chest. He wraps his arms tightly around her.
Happy and contented in his embrace, Nikki excitedly says "I am so happy I can scream and tell the world I l love you.”
She feels Abhi stiffening. Realisation dawns on her.
“Abhi,” she tenderly holds his face, “I know my not saying anything that night caused you a lot of pain. I owe you an apology, especially, in front of everyone. I want to tell all my friends what you really mean to me.”
Abhi smiles understandingly at her.
"Don't bother,” he tells her with the shake of his head. “ It doesn't matter any more. All I need in life is you and the assurance of your love. Now that I have it, nothing else really matters. Things will automatically fall in place.”
Besides" he pauses mischief dancing in his eyes. "lets keep them all guessing. Till then, we can enjoy our secret rendezvous” Nikki smiles shyly at him. He takes her back into his arms and holds her tightly, as if, never wanting her to go.
The darkness has gone........ A new dawn has begun for them.
CONCLUDED
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
