The next few days went off in a flurry of activities. Abhi got busy with Sanjeevani whilst Nikki had a houseful of visitors. Her aunts and cousins kept visiting them because of her mother. They would drag a reluctant Nikki for lunches and shopping.
First with unsuccessful softness and then with firmness, Abhi got Nikki to reduce her barbs and taunts towards her mother.
The Kapoors threw a lavish dinner for family and friends on Sunday to kick start the week long pre-wedding ceremonies. The wedding was scheduled to be held on the following Saturday.
It was at the cocktail party Nikki, came face to face with Akash Khurana, a face she never wanted to see again.
"Nikki Darling, you remember Akash don't you?"
"No I don't," Nikki replies, her voice filled with venom. "I only remember people who are significant."
Kavita is aghast and she looks around her hoping her daughter's barb has not been heard by the guests.
"Looks like you are still upset with me Nikki," Akash tells her humbly.
"Me?" she twitches her nose in disgust. "I only get upset with people who matter to me. The rest I don't care."
"Nikki, will you stop being rude " her mother chides softly.
"Nikki, I am sorry for what I did that day. It was really immature of me and I always regretted it. People do make mistakes in their life. Please forgive me."
He takes a good look at her. She was looking so hot, dressed in a halter necked black dress, her face glowing with happiness.
"I see you are married and well settled in life," Akash continues, oblivious to the fact that Nikki's attention is diverted towards her husband. "I only want your forgiveness. Please forgive me."
Nikki kept staring at Abhi who was standing across the room, surrounded by Simran and her friends. Whatever they were telling him, it brought embarrassment and colour on his face. Nikki walks towards him with amusement on her face, leaving a baffled Akash and Kavita staring at each other.
"Tell us Jeeju, what is the secret of such a fab body," she hears Simran coaxing Abhi as she neared them.
"Yes, tell us, tell us." Her friends chorus.
"Well, he exercises well by carrying his pregnant wife from one place to another," Nikki butts in with a tone as sugary sweet.
Going towards an amused Abhi and putting her hand possessively around his arm, she tells the girls "It is a wonderful exercise for him."
Then looking up at his face she teases, "Isn't it Hubby Darling?" Her lips contorts into a twisted smile.
"Absolutely Divine!" he replies dreamily, bringing his face very close to hers, a seductive smile playing on his lips.
"Oooooooooooohhhhhhhhhh" chorus the enchanted girls, as they watch the two lost into each other.
His mesmerized gaze and giggly ooh la las from the smitten girls, makes Nikki shy. She tells Abhi. "I am thirsty. Can we go get something to drink?"
Abhi nods with a smile.
"Bye Girls," he waves at them. "Catch you all later."
"Don't go," they plead.
"I am sorry," he apologises, blinking his eyes at them. Then taking Nikki's hand in his, he says "its orders from my headquarters." He winks at Nikki who smiles at him.
.
As they walks towards the bar, indicating his eyes, towards Akash, whose back was facing them, Abhi asksNikki.
"Who is he?"
"Not important."
"Old boyfriend?"
"Shut up!" she says indignantly.
Abhi smiles
Reaching the bar he asks for a juice for Nikki. He then whispers into her ears.
"I have to thank you, dear wife, for rescuing me, or else, I would have been stripped completely, put on a pedestal and made to display every inch and cut of my muscles."
"Shut up Abhi," says Nikki as she bursts into uncontrollable laughter. Trying to stop herself, she keeps resting her head on Abhi's upper arm, but is unsuccessful in controlling her laugh.
"Seriously," Abhi confirms in between chuckles, as he watches her , trying hard to control herself. Their faces were filled with mirth.
"Oh God, here she comes again," he mutters, attempting to hide his face.
"Nikki please save me!" he pleads, holding firmly on to her arm. Nikki turns to look at Simran coming towards them. She bites her lower lip in an attempt to prevent her laughter from erupting.
"Nikki Di, Mama and Kavita Maasi are looking out for you," she tells Nikki sweetly. "Don't worry about Jeeju, I'll take care of him."
Nikki can hear Abhi's soft groans behind her. With a finger, he keeps gently nudging her back. Stiffling her amusement at his nervousness, she smiles at Simran.
"Sweety can you take me to where they are," she tells Simran sweetly.
"Okay fine, Di." Simran agrees. Then looking at Abhi she says, "Bye Jeeju, I'll be back soon." She begins to walk away.
"Nikki, please, please come back soon. I need your protection." Abhi pleads.
Nikki walks off with a laugh.
Finding Abhi at the bar, a partly drunk Jas goes up to him. As they begin to chat, Akash comes there and asks for a drink.
Jas introduces them.
"Akash meet Abhimanyu my son in law and Abhimanyu, this is Akash. His mother Sheetal is a very close friend of Kavita and Amrita.
As they shake hands, Abhi thinks, he has met Akash somewhere before. The face seemed very familiar, but, he was unable to recollect where. He stares at Akash who was almost the same height as him, fair skinned, boyish face. His upper lip had a miniscule scar.
Jas pats Abhi on the back, saying "Hey, Dr. Abhimanyu Modi, you promised to take me to the dhabas, when are you going to take me? tell, tell."
"I will Jas, first let us be free from this wedding." He continues to stare at Akash.
Hearing the name Abhimanyu Modi, Akash freezes. He looks anxiously at Abhi.
"Akash, have we met before? I don't know why, but your face seems very familiar," Abhi tells him.
Touching his scar, Akash nervously says, "I don't know. I don't think so. Excuse me, I have someone to catch up with"
Before Abhi can say anything further, he hurriedly walks away.
Abhi is baffled. "Why does this guy seem so familiar?" he wonders.
Sometime later, Nikki was in the lawn, enjoying the fresh breeze that was playing against her face. 'Its so pleasant here. Inside was so stuffy," she thinks.
"I should have told Abhi,' she mutters to herself, but, then she had came out from the other entrance. 'I'll go in, in few minutes or he'll worry' she decides.
A small rumbling in her stomach makes her put her hand over it. Caressing it tenderly she smiles. On and off, the baby has started showing signs of its presence. Even though there are no major kicks, since it is too early for it, there is that occasional flutter and flitting telling of the baby's movements.
She is reminded of the various times she woke up in the nights with either pain in the back, cramps in the leg or even tossing and turning because of discomfort in her sleeping position.
No matter what part of the night, Abhi would be quick to wake up and patiently massage the area of distress, till she fell back to sleep. He turned out to be a good support for her.
He has spoilt them so much now, that it has become difficult for her and the baby to sleep, without his protective arm over them.
"Isn't it baby?" she asks, with a smile on her face.
"Abhi," Nikki lovingly, whispers his name.
The love and tenderness he showers on her, has pushed that ugly night at the Park Hotel far away from her mind. Yet, that night did happen. It wasn't her imagination. She had seen it with her own eyes. Day by day, his increasing love, was slowly getting her convinced that there seems to be something more to what she saw. What could it be?
Whatever it is, It is a thorn that keeps pricking into this lovely phase of theirs.
Its high time, she had that talk with Abhi and cleared things up. She has to be brave and face whatever is the truth.
Abhi has asked her to rejoin Sanjeevani, after the wedding and atleast, handle the administrative side, till her pregnancy induced phobia on seeing blood during surgeries, subsides.
Once this wedding is over, her mother will surely leave soon. Right now there is too much of activities and people around, for them to talk peacefully. It's a matter of a week. They waited for so long. Now, they can surely wait for another week or two. Then, they can patiently and calmly get a few things cleared up and decide on their future.
Abhi is all over the hall, searching for Nikki. He bumps into Simran and asks her where Nikki was.
"Oh Jeeju, she was feeling stuffy inside. So she said she'll go out for few minutes to catch some fresh air."
"Thanks" Abhi smiles at her.
"Abhi, come aside, I need to tell you something," Rohit pats him on the back. As they move to a side, the whole room is plunged in darkness.
"Oh No, Nikki!" Abhi begins to worry. "She is afraid of the dark, I need to go out and find her," he tells Rohit.
"Abhi don't panic, there is provision of a generator. It will be switched on in few minutes," Rohit calls out, but Abhi has already left.
Seeing darkness all over, Nikki's heart begins to pound nervously.
'Oh God,' she begins to panic "What do I do now,"
Her breathing becomes heavy, her body starts shivering and her hands have gone numb.
She can hear her name being called out from afar. 'Abhi,' she smiles in relief.
As she senses him coming near her, Nikki closes the distance and buries her head in his chest. His arms go around her.
"Thank God, you came Abhi. I was so frightened."
A sudden bout of cold creeps goes down her spine. This wasn't her Abhi's body nor smell.
As she looks up, the lights flicker on. She shudders in fear as she finds herself looking into the evil gleaming eyes of Akash.
Her stomach begins to revolt in panic. She then notices a movement, some distance away from them.
To her horror, she finds Abhi watching them, his eyes frozen in stunned silence.
to be continued
Friday, January 15, 2010
Monday, January 11, 2010
CONNECTED IN LOVE - PART-10
The next day Amrita came over to their house to meet her sister.
"Nikki darling, living in the same city, we hardly see anything of you," she laments. "Last we saw you was at your wedding. Even before that we must have barely met twice for the two years you lived in the city."
Nikki smiles awkwardly. "I am sorry Aunty, you know how busy doctors are," she mumbles. Abhi clears his throat in trying to hide his smile. Nikki makes eyes at him.
Nikki preferred to be alone in the big city than be under Amrita's snobbery wing. This was another grouse her mother had with her.
Amrtia, then hands over an invitation card for her daughter Sonam's wedding to Abhi. To everyone's surprise, including Nikki, Abhi tells them, he has already received the invitation for the wedding from the groom Rohit Raheja. He tells them that Rohit and he did their schooling in London and have, kept in touch with each other, even if it was only occasionally.
"Good," Amrita tells him. "but, your loyalty should be more towards your sister-in-law, now that we are family." She laughs huskily.
Amrita then invites all of them to dinner in the evening, which Nikki tries her best to wriggle out from. Sonam and she never got along well and Nikki definitely wanted to keep their meetings to the barest minimum as possible.
"You have to come Nikki," Amrita tells her. " Rohit will be there too and I would like you all to meet him and his family.
Reluctantly, Nikki agrees to go.
**************************
Sometime later, as Abhi enters their room, he finds Nikki standing in front of the mirror, twirling to and fro, checking out her stomach. He notices a pile of clothes strewn all over the bed.
"Are those for charity?" he asks her.
Startled by his sudden entry, Nikki pulls down the kurti to cover the bareness of her stomach.
"I have become fat," she laments " everything is getting tight for me,"
"Nikki you are doing perfect," Abhi tells her soothingly. "Infact you are hardly showing."
"Yeah?" Nikki mocks him. "Can you see my waistline, its disappearing. Look at this, she points at the slight bulge of her stomach." As Abhi flops on the bed and begins to scrutinize her, Nikki flushes scarlet.
"Very soon, I'll have to wear sacks," she tries to divert his attention.
Abhi bursts out laughing looking at her action of wearing sacks.
"Laugh, laugh," Niki glares at him. "you don't have to go through all this"
"Don't tell me you thought for the whole nine months, your waistline would remain as it was before," Abhi teases. Nikki takes a pillow and flings it at him. He manages to duck it.
"Come on," he gets up and holding her hand pulls her along with him.
"Where?" asks Nikki in puzzlement.
"Lets get you some sacks to wear for the next few months that you'll remain pregnant," he winks.
***********************
They arrive at a store that sold exclusive maternity outfits. Looking at the trendy clothes, halter dresses, strappy tops, off shoulder tops and dresses, flared capris, Nikki's heart begins to dance with excitement. She picks up a horde of them and goes to the fitting room.
Everytime she tried out an outfit and came out to show Abhi, his heart would begin to pound rapidly. He always found his wife the most beautiful and sexy woman, but now, it seems ,she is cut out to be even more beautiful and sexier than before.
"Beta, you are completely finished now," he tells himself.
Nikki, on the other hand, was enjoying the feminity and sensuality of the dresses. Everytime she questioned Abhi whether she should buy the outfit, the nod of his head would light up her face with delight.
The whole of the car's back seat was stacked with their purchases inspite of some lying in the boot.
************************
Everyone was waiting for Nikki to come out so that they could leave for the dinner. Excusing himself to check on her, Abhi goes to their room.
"Nikki, what's taking you so.........." He is unable to continue as he sees her standing there looking so gorgeous, dressed in the newly purchased teal coloured, lycra top, with straps crossed and held at the middle of her chest by an O ring and black, split pant styled, lycra skirt.
Nikki blushes under his unblinking gaze.
"Am I looking okay?" she asks.
"No," Abhi shakes his head.
Surprised Nikki turns to look in the mirror and begins to check herself, wondering what was wrong.
"You are not looking okay," Abhi continues, in a daze "You are looking out of the world."
Nikki turns red with his compliment.
"Abhimanyu, Nikki, are you guys coming or not?" Kavita calls out aloud from the living room.
"Lets go," Abhi tells Nikki "Or else everyone will land up here in our room.
With a laugh Nikki walks out with him.
****************************
Dinner at the Kapoor's house was quiet a formal affair. Amrita introduces Abhi and Nikki to Rohit and his family. Rohit was a good looking, pleasant faced guy. Nikki quiet liked his down to earth attitude and carefree spirit. The elderly couples were busy with their conversations, while Abhi and Rohit were chatting with each other. Left to themselves, Nikki and Sonam made polite conversations, while, her younger sister Simran, a pretty college-going girl, couldn't help admiring her two brother-in-laws, hoping one day she would find a guy like them.
After dinner was over, Nikki's boredom increased. She was feeling suffocated. She stares at Abhi who was standing with Rohit at the other end of the room, talking away as if there was no tomorrow. Nikki felt ignored by him. Finding her eyes on him, Abhi excuses himself and goes over to her.
"Are you okay?" he asks with concerned.
"Do you care?" she snaps back.
Abhi is taken aback. "What happened?"
"I am tired and sleepy."
"Okay fine, lets go home,"
They make their excuses and because of Nikki's condition, they were excused. Amrita tells them she is keeping Kavita and Jas with her for the night.
Back home, Nikki was so tired, she had no energy to change. To Abhi's surprise, barely had her head touched the pillow, she was out like a light.
***********************
The shaking of the bed awakes Abhi from his sleep. Droopy eyed, he groans. 'Didn't he just sleep off, It couldn't be morn so early!'
He looks up groggily and finds Nikki sitting up and caressing her stomach. Rubbing his eyes, he quickly leans over to her.
"What happened Nikki? Are you alright?" His hands instinctively goes to her stomach.
"I am hungry," Nikki tells him.
"Oh," says Abhi, relieved it was nothing dangerous. "I'll go to the kitchen and get something for you," he says putting his legs on the floor and moving them around, in search for his slippers.
"What would you like to have?" he asks.
"Paanipuri"
Abhi, who was attempting to stand up, is jolted by her word.
He turns to look at her.
"What did you say?"
"Paanipuri," confirms Nikki, smacking her tongue over watering lips.
Abhi looks at his watch. It was fifteen minutes to 1 am.
"And where do you think you will you get paani puri so late?"
"I don't know, I just have the urge to eat them. We'll find it somewhere, maybe the stalls on the beach"
"Even they, won't be open so late," Abhi pleads. "Besides, don't you know in this condition its best not to eat roadside food. You, being a doctor, should know this. Who the hell made you a Doctor?"
"You" pat comes Nikki's sweet reply.
"Yeah right! That's the problem when you follow love blindly" Abhi mutters between his breath.
"What did you say?" Nikki asks, straining her ears to listen.
"Nothing. Can I get you anything else to eat? We'll find a good place that sells paani puri tomorrow. Okay?" he cajoles.
To his horror, Nikki begins to wail loudly.
"No I want paani puri now. My mouth is watering for it. I want it now I said," she sniffs in between her wailing.
Abhi tries to hold her shoulders to calm her down, but Nikki keeps pushing his hands away.
"You want to become a father," she says in between sniffs "and you just don't care about what your child wants."
"Nikki you know its not the requirement of the child, its your own craving," he tries to make her see sense.
Nikki wails even more louder. "Just because you are a doctor, you are trying to show off," she sniffs. "Don't forget I am a doctor too. I also know whats good for me. I'll go find paanipuri for myself. You need not bother."
Abhi slaps his forehead.
"So you are not going to listen?"
Nikki shakes her head in agreement.
"You still want to eat paani puri?"
Nikki nods in confirmation, letting out a few sniffs in between.
"Accha," Abhi sighs deeply. "lets go and find one."
Nikki wipes her tears and flashes a wide smile at him.
Abhi returns it with a feeble one.
He said they would find one. But where, he had no idea. He begins to visualise himself having opened a stall and spending the whole night making paani puris.
He shudders at the thought. 'Help me God!' he sends up a silent prayer.
Having driven all over, they were unable to find a decent place that would sell paani puri.
Disappointed, Nikki continues wailing "I want paani puri, I want paani puri" till Abhi was bursting from the ear.
If it weren't for her present condition, he would have given her a few good shakes and quietened her up.
Frustrated, he stops over at a tiny shop to buy a bottle of water, leaving Nikki sitting in the car. Just then an idea strikes him and he dials the number of the 24 hour telephone directory service. He tells the person at the other side of the line, he wants a good place where they sell paani puri.
"Paani puri?" comes the shocked reply. "at this hour?"
"Yes, my friend, Paani puri at this hour!" he replies, his voice laced with irritation. "Please let me know where can I find one. Let it be any place, any city, any country or any planet, just find it, Please. I need paani puri," he yells into the phone.
"Okay, okay, relax, let me see what I can do," comes a baffled answer.
The few minutes Abhi was kept waiting, he kept praying hard for paani puri. Never, in his life did he pray so hard for anything like he was doing now.
The guy comes back to him saying, "Sir, there seems to be a post midnight chaat festival going on at the coffee shop of a Hotel on Marine Drive." He then proceeds to give the address to Abhi.
To Abhi, he sounded like a magician speaking the magic words.
"Thank you, thank you, thank you," he kept singing into the phone.
He would have even kissed the guy if he was in front of him. Would he ? He rolls his eyes. Lord, the things pregnancy makes one to do!
When he disconnects, the executive looks at his colleague and says, "Good Lord, that man sounded as if he is pregnant!"
At the coffee shop, Nikki was delighted to see a huge buffet spread with various kind of chaat. Her mouth watering, she decides to have a bit of everything. For all the chaos she created for paani puri, she passes it off with a cursory glance, Watching her, an exasperated Abhi, buries his head in his hands.
"What happened ? Feeling hungry?" Nikki asks placing a plateful of food in front of her. Abhi looks up at her and finds that she was innocently awaiting for an answer from him.
"No, I am not hungry. I've ordered for black coffee."
"What are you saying? How can you not be hungry? I am so ravenous."
"That is because, dear wife, you are pregnant, not me. Besides," he eyes her plate suspiciously. "I don't want to go through indigestion. I am fine with coffee."
Nikki gives him a disgusted look.
She then happily digs into her plate. Finally, she eats two pieces of paani puri and gives a satisfied smile.
"Wow, now I am feeling so satisfied," she looks happily at Abhi like a cat who got all the cream.
"Good," he says in relief. "Shall we go?"
"Won't you have some ice cream, Madam?" flashing a smile, the waiter asks her in sweet tone. "Actually the kulfi-falooda is one of its kind"
"Kulfi-falooda!" Nikki exclaims in delight. "I haven't had one in ages."
Abhi glares at the waiter. How, he wished he could double the guy up as a punching bag and box him till the word kulfi falooda was completely wiped out from his memory box.
"Nikki, its okay to eat when you feel hungry, but don't overeat. You'll be sick by the morning," he warns her.
"Haven't you heard before? Never to come in between a pregnant woman and her cravings," she dismisses his warning with the wave of her hand.
Rolling his eyes, Abhi decides to gives up.
"Will you get the kulfi falooda for me please?" she smiles sweetly at the steward who returns it with a happy smile.
"Can I get you anything Sir?" the waiter asks Abhi.
Seething inwardly, Abhi keeps clenching and unclenching his fists, under the table.
'Yes, I would like to put you in the grinder and make a falooda of you!'
"Abhi?"
With a "Hmmmm" he comes out of his musings. Realising Nikki and the waiter were waiting for his reply, he smiles weakly and nods his head in the negative.
It was only an hour later that Abhi enters their bedroom, carrying a sleeping Nikki in his arms.
"Phew!" he puffs as he lays her gently on the bed. Not only was she getting beautiful and sexier, she was becoming heavy and demanding too.
Sleepy and exhausted, he lies down beside her. He then turns over to look at her and unable to control himself, he gently caresses her face. He then notices the slight bulge of her tummy.
Putting his hand gently over it, he whispers. "Hey Baby, when we meet at the end of six months, I really hope your father has his sanity intact"
Nikki stirs and puts her hand over his hand that was holding her stomach. Relieved she was asleep, Abhi takes a deep breath and closes his eyes, hoping for some good sleep.
The next morning he is woken up with loud sounds coming from the washroom and realizes Nikki is sick.
'Ziddi Ladki! Never listens,' he shakes his head.
With hurried steps, he rushes to the washroom.
He finds Nikki splashing water on her face. Seeing him through the mirror, she turns to him.
"Oh Abhi, I am feeling so sick," she wails.
"Really? Shall we go out for some more paanipuri and kulfi faloodas"
"Abhi you are so horrible !" she cries rushing towards the pot retching out the next lot.
Abhi, tenderly rubs her back till she finishes. He then wipes her face with a wet towel. Nikki washes her mouth. Weak and completely drained out, she leans against him. Tenderly, he carries her, in his arms and lays her on the bed.
Then, going over to his side of the bed, he pulls out a pill from the drawer and turning to face her, puts it in her mouth. Taking the glass of water from him, Nikki swallows down the pill.
"Lie down" he tells her "Try and sleep."
"I am feeling so sick," she tells him again.. Her head was heavy and the life in her legs seemed like jelly. Feeling nauseated once again, she begins to rub her stomach, fervently hoping, she is able to avoid another visit to the washroom. She just had no stamina to go through with it again.
"You'll be fine," Abhi soothes her, placing his hand on her stomach and rubbing it gently "Just close your eyes."
Seeking comfort, Nikki leans against his chest and closes her eyes. His protective arm around her, indeed , was comforting. The gentleness of his hand on her stomach begins to calm her insides.
Not realizing the soothing effect his hand was having on her, Abhi removes it and turns to check the time on the bedside table. It was 5 am.
Realising he has removed his hand from her stomach, Nikki felt a sense of uneasiness and panic. Sleepily, she reaches out for his hand and places it back on her stomach. Snuggled up close against him, she falls asleep. Abhi smiles as he watches her sleep. Holding her firmly, he closes his eyes and also falls off to sleep.
to be continued.....
"Nikki darling, living in the same city, we hardly see anything of you," she laments. "Last we saw you was at your wedding. Even before that we must have barely met twice for the two years you lived in the city."
Nikki smiles awkwardly. "I am sorry Aunty, you know how busy doctors are," she mumbles. Abhi clears his throat in trying to hide his smile. Nikki makes eyes at him.
Nikki preferred to be alone in the big city than be under Amrita's snobbery wing. This was another grouse her mother had with her.
Amrtia, then hands over an invitation card for her daughter Sonam's wedding to Abhi. To everyone's surprise, including Nikki, Abhi tells them, he has already received the invitation for the wedding from the groom Rohit Raheja. He tells them that Rohit and he did their schooling in London and have, kept in touch with each other, even if it was only occasionally.
"Good," Amrita tells him. "but, your loyalty should be more towards your sister-in-law, now that we are family." She laughs huskily.
Amrita then invites all of them to dinner in the evening, which Nikki tries her best to wriggle out from. Sonam and she never got along well and Nikki definitely wanted to keep their meetings to the barest minimum as possible.
"You have to come Nikki," Amrita tells her. " Rohit will be there too and I would like you all to meet him and his family.
Reluctantly, Nikki agrees to go.
**************************
Sometime later, as Abhi enters their room, he finds Nikki standing in front of the mirror, twirling to and fro, checking out her stomach. He notices a pile of clothes strewn all over the bed.
"Are those for charity?" he asks her.
Startled by his sudden entry, Nikki pulls down the kurti to cover the bareness of her stomach.
"I have become fat," she laments " everything is getting tight for me,"
"Nikki you are doing perfect," Abhi tells her soothingly. "Infact you are hardly showing."
"Yeah?" Nikki mocks him. "Can you see my waistline, its disappearing. Look at this, she points at the slight bulge of her stomach." As Abhi flops on the bed and begins to scrutinize her, Nikki flushes scarlet.
"Very soon, I'll have to wear sacks," she tries to divert his attention.
Abhi bursts out laughing looking at her action of wearing sacks.
"Laugh, laugh," Niki glares at him. "you don't have to go through all this"
"Don't tell me you thought for the whole nine months, your waistline would remain as it was before," Abhi teases. Nikki takes a pillow and flings it at him. He manages to duck it.
"Come on," he gets up and holding her hand pulls her along with him.
"Where?" asks Nikki in puzzlement.
"Lets get you some sacks to wear for the next few months that you'll remain pregnant," he winks.
***********************
They arrive at a store that sold exclusive maternity outfits. Looking at the trendy clothes, halter dresses, strappy tops, off shoulder tops and dresses, flared capris, Nikki's heart begins to dance with excitement. She picks up a horde of them and goes to the fitting room.
Everytime she tried out an outfit and came out to show Abhi, his heart would begin to pound rapidly. He always found his wife the most beautiful and sexy woman, but now, it seems ,she is cut out to be even more beautiful and sexier than before.
"Beta, you are completely finished now," he tells himself.
Nikki, on the other hand, was enjoying the feminity and sensuality of the dresses. Everytime she questioned Abhi whether she should buy the outfit, the nod of his head would light up her face with delight.
The whole of the car's back seat was stacked with their purchases inspite of some lying in the boot.
************************
Everyone was waiting for Nikki to come out so that they could leave for the dinner. Excusing himself to check on her, Abhi goes to their room.
"Nikki, what's taking you so.........." He is unable to continue as he sees her standing there looking so gorgeous, dressed in the newly purchased teal coloured, lycra top, with straps crossed and held at the middle of her chest by an O ring and black, split pant styled, lycra skirt.
Nikki blushes under his unblinking gaze.
"Am I looking okay?" she asks.
"No," Abhi shakes his head.
Surprised Nikki turns to look in the mirror and begins to check herself, wondering what was wrong.
"You are not looking okay," Abhi continues, in a daze "You are looking out of the world."
Nikki turns red with his compliment.
"Abhimanyu, Nikki, are you guys coming or not?" Kavita calls out aloud from the living room.
"Lets go," Abhi tells Nikki "Or else everyone will land up here in our room.
With a laugh Nikki walks out with him.
****************************
Dinner at the Kapoor's house was quiet a formal affair. Amrita introduces Abhi and Nikki to Rohit and his family. Rohit was a good looking, pleasant faced guy. Nikki quiet liked his down to earth attitude and carefree spirit. The elderly couples were busy with their conversations, while Abhi and Rohit were chatting with each other. Left to themselves, Nikki and Sonam made polite conversations, while, her younger sister Simran, a pretty college-going girl, couldn't help admiring her two brother-in-laws, hoping one day she would find a guy like them.
After dinner was over, Nikki's boredom increased. She was feeling suffocated. She stares at Abhi who was standing with Rohit at the other end of the room, talking away as if there was no tomorrow. Nikki felt ignored by him. Finding her eyes on him, Abhi excuses himself and goes over to her.
"Are you okay?" he asks with concerned.
"Do you care?" she snaps back.
Abhi is taken aback. "What happened?"
"I am tired and sleepy."
"Okay fine, lets go home,"
They make their excuses and because of Nikki's condition, they were excused. Amrita tells them she is keeping Kavita and Jas with her for the night.
Back home, Nikki was so tired, she had no energy to change. To Abhi's surprise, barely had her head touched the pillow, she was out like a light.
***********************
The shaking of the bed awakes Abhi from his sleep. Droopy eyed, he groans. 'Didn't he just sleep off, It couldn't be morn so early!'
He looks up groggily and finds Nikki sitting up and caressing her stomach. Rubbing his eyes, he quickly leans over to her.
"What happened Nikki? Are you alright?" His hands instinctively goes to her stomach.
"I am hungry," Nikki tells him.
"Oh," says Abhi, relieved it was nothing dangerous. "I'll go to the kitchen and get something for you," he says putting his legs on the floor and moving them around, in search for his slippers.
"What would you like to have?" he asks.
"Paanipuri"
Abhi, who was attempting to stand up, is jolted by her word.
He turns to look at her.
"What did you say?"
"Paanipuri," confirms Nikki, smacking her tongue over watering lips.
Abhi looks at his watch. It was fifteen minutes to 1 am.
"And where do you think you will you get paani puri so late?"
"I don't know, I just have the urge to eat them. We'll find it somewhere, maybe the stalls on the beach"
"Even they, won't be open so late," Abhi pleads. "Besides, don't you know in this condition its best not to eat roadside food. You, being a doctor, should know this. Who the hell made you a Doctor?"
"You" pat comes Nikki's sweet reply.
"Yeah right! That's the problem when you follow love blindly" Abhi mutters between his breath.
"What did you say?" Nikki asks, straining her ears to listen.
"Nothing. Can I get you anything else to eat? We'll find a good place that sells paani puri tomorrow. Okay?" he cajoles.
To his horror, Nikki begins to wail loudly.
"No I want paani puri now. My mouth is watering for it. I want it now I said," she sniffs in between her wailing.
Abhi tries to hold her shoulders to calm her down, but Nikki keeps pushing his hands away.
"You want to become a father," she says in between sniffs "and you just don't care about what your child wants."
"Nikki you know its not the requirement of the child, its your own craving," he tries to make her see sense.
Nikki wails even more louder. "Just because you are a doctor, you are trying to show off," she sniffs. "Don't forget I am a doctor too. I also know whats good for me. I'll go find paanipuri for myself. You need not bother."
Abhi slaps his forehead.
"So you are not going to listen?"
Nikki shakes her head in agreement.
"You still want to eat paani puri?"
Nikki nods in confirmation, letting out a few sniffs in between.
"Accha," Abhi sighs deeply. "lets go and find one."
Nikki wipes her tears and flashes a wide smile at him.
Abhi returns it with a feeble one.
He said they would find one. But where, he had no idea. He begins to visualise himself having opened a stall and spending the whole night making paani puris.
He shudders at the thought. 'Help me God!' he sends up a silent prayer.
Having driven all over, they were unable to find a decent place that would sell paani puri.
Disappointed, Nikki continues wailing "I want paani puri, I want paani puri" till Abhi was bursting from the ear.
If it weren't for her present condition, he would have given her a few good shakes and quietened her up.
Frustrated, he stops over at a tiny shop to buy a bottle of water, leaving Nikki sitting in the car. Just then an idea strikes him and he dials the number of the 24 hour telephone directory service. He tells the person at the other side of the line, he wants a good place where they sell paani puri.
"Paani puri?" comes the shocked reply. "at this hour?"
"Yes, my friend, Paani puri at this hour!" he replies, his voice laced with irritation. "Please let me know where can I find one. Let it be any place, any city, any country or any planet, just find it, Please. I need paani puri," he yells into the phone.
"Okay, okay, relax, let me see what I can do," comes a baffled answer.
The few minutes Abhi was kept waiting, he kept praying hard for paani puri. Never, in his life did he pray so hard for anything like he was doing now.
The guy comes back to him saying, "Sir, there seems to be a post midnight chaat festival going on at the coffee shop of a Hotel on Marine Drive." He then proceeds to give the address to Abhi.
To Abhi, he sounded like a magician speaking the magic words.
"Thank you, thank you, thank you," he kept singing into the phone.
He would have even kissed the guy if he was in front of him. Would he ? He rolls his eyes. Lord, the things pregnancy makes one to do!
When he disconnects, the executive looks at his colleague and says, "Good Lord, that man sounded as if he is pregnant!"
At the coffee shop, Nikki was delighted to see a huge buffet spread with various kind of chaat. Her mouth watering, she decides to have a bit of everything. For all the chaos she created for paani puri, she passes it off with a cursory glance, Watching her, an exasperated Abhi, buries his head in his hands.
"What happened ? Feeling hungry?" Nikki asks placing a plateful of food in front of her. Abhi looks up at her and finds that she was innocently awaiting for an answer from him.
"No, I am not hungry. I've ordered for black coffee."
"What are you saying? How can you not be hungry? I am so ravenous."
"That is because, dear wife, you are pregnant, not me. Besides," he eyes her plate suspiciously. "I don't want to go through indigestion. I am fine with coffee."
Nikki gives him a disgusted look.
She then happily digs into her plate. Finally, she eats two pieces of paani puri and gives a satisfied smile.
"Wow, now I am feeling so satisfied," she looks happily at Abhi like a cat who got all the cream.
"Good," he says in relief. "Shall we go?"
"Won't you have some ice cream, Madam?" flashing a smile, the waiter asks her in sweet tone. "Actually the kulfi-falooda is one of its kind"
"Kulfi-falooda!" Nikki exclaims in delight. "I haven't had one in ages."
Abhi glares at the waiter. How, he wished he could double the guy up as a punching bag and box him till the word kulfi falooda was completely wiped out from his memory box.
"Nikki, its okay to eat when you feel hungry, but don't overeat. You'll be sick by the morning," he warns her.
"Haven't you heard before? Never to come in between a pregnant woman and her cravings," she dismisses his warning with the wave of her hand.
Rolling his eyes, Abhi decides to gives up.
"Will you get the kulfi falooda for me please?" she smiles sweetly at the steward who returns it with a happy smile.
"Can I get you anything Sir?" the waiter asks Abhi.
Seething inwardly, Abhi keeps clenching and unclenching his fists, under the table.
'Yes, I would like to put you in the grinder and make a falooda of you!'
"Abhi?"
With a "Hmmmm" he comes out of his musings. Realising Nikki and the waiter were waiting for his reply, he smiles weakly and nods his head in the negative.
It was only an hour later that Abhi enters their bedroom, carrying a sleeping Nikki in his arms.
"Phew!" he puffs as he lays her gently on the bed. Not only was she getting beautiful and sexier, she was becoming heavy and demanding too.
Sleepy and exhausted, he lies down beside her. He then turns over to look at her and unable to control himself, he gently caresses her face. He then notices the slight bulge of her tummy.
Putting his hand gently over it, he whispers. "Hey Baby, when we meet at the end of six months, I really hope your father has his sanity intact"
Nikki stirs and puts her hand over his hand that was holding her stomach. Relieved she was asleep, Abhi takes a deep breath and closes his eyes, hoping for some good sleep.
The next morning he is woken up with loud sounds coming from the washroom and realizes Nikki is sick.
'Ziddi Ladki! Never listens,' he shakes his head.
With hurried steps, he rushes to the washroom.
He finds Nikki splashing water on her face. Seeing him through the mirror, she turns to him.
"Oh Abhi, I am feeling so sick," she wails.
"Really? Shall we go out for some more paanipuri and kulfi faloodas"
"Abhi you are so horrible !" she cries rushing towards the pot retching out the next lot.
Abhi, tenderly rubs her back till she finishes. He then wipes her face with a wet towel. Nikki washes her mouth. Weak and completely drained out, she leans against him. Tenderly, he carries her, in his arms and lays her on the bed.
Then, going over to his side of the bed, he pulls out a pill from the drawer and turning to face her, puts it in her mouth. Taking the glass of water from him, Nikki swallows down the pill.
"Lie down" he tells her "Try and sleep."
"I am feeling so sick," she tells him again.. Her head was heavy and the life in her legs seemed like jelly. Feeling nauseated once again, she begins to rub her stomach, fervently hoping, she is able to avoid another visit to the washroom. She just had no stamina to go through with it again.
"You'll be fine," Abhi soothes her, placing his hand on her stomach and rubbing it gently "Just close your eyes."
Seeking comfort, Nikki leans against his chest and closes her eyes. His protective arm around her, indeed , was comforting. The gentleness of his hand on her stomach begins to calm her insides.
Not realizing the soothing effect his hand was having on her, Abhi removes it and turns to check the time on the bedside table. It was 5 am.
Realising he has removed his hand from her stomach, Nikki felt a sense of uneasiness and panic. Sleepily, she reaches out for his hand and places it back on her stomach. Snuggled up close against him, she falls asleep. Abhi smiles as he watches her sleep. Holding her firmly, he closes his eyes and also falls off to sleep.
to be continued.....
Sunday, January 10, 2010
CONNECTED IN LOVE - PART-9
Part 9
"Nervous?" Abhi asks Nikki, who was sitting beside him, twiddling her thumb. They were in the visitors lounge of the airport terminal awaiting her mother.
Nikki shakes her head in the negative, but, begins fidgeting the end of her kurti.
With a smile, Abhi shakes his head at her obstinacy.
"Nikki, relax!" he tells her taking her hand in his and pulling it tenderly over his lap. "It is only your mother," he soothes, as his fingers slowly makes space between hers, till both their fingers are firmly entwined with each other.
A tiny thought alerts Nikki to pull away, but, she begins to enjoy the comfort from the warmth of his hand.
She looks up at his face. His seductive smile begins to charm the strings of her heart and her eyes continue to be transfixed into his.
"Nikki Darling!" a husky female voice makes them turn towards it.
"Mom!" Nikki mutters as she sees her mother standing on the other side of the enclosure that separated the passengers and visitors.
They both stand up abruptly and make their way towards Kavita Ahluwalia, who was walking towards them.
She was dressed stylishly in a black shirt styled top over long black skirt and a printed scarf draped around her neck. As she got closer to them, her strong perfume begin to attack their senses. Abhi notices how mother and daughter shared well chiseled features, delicate built and diminutive stature. The sharp eyes, checking them out, signalled of a strong, domineering woman.
Nikki goes to her mother and they air kiss each other, exchanging a hug that was devoid of any warmth.
"I am so sorry, did I break your little romantic moment Honey?" she gives a fake laugh, the regret not reaching her eyes.
Abhi and Nikki smile awkwardly at her.
'Good Start!' Nikki is secretly pleased. Without even them trying hard, her mother caught them lost into each other.
"Are you okay darling?" Kavita's voice breaks into Nikki's reverie.
"I am fine," she smiles. "Meet my husband Dr. Abhimanyu Modi," she introduces, making signs at Abhi to come forward.
As he nears them, she takes his arm and possessively winds her arm around his. Amused at her action, a smile hovers on Abhi's lips. He then extends his hand towards Kavita.
"Hello Mrs. Ahluwalia!"
"Oh, Abhimanyu, nice meeting you. I am so sorry Jas and me couldn't make it to your wedding as we had already committed to something else."
"No problem," Abhi flashes a charming smile at her. "We were destined to meet, so here we are!"
"I always wondered who Nikki was marrying." Kavita glances haughtily at Nikki. "Amrita, my sister did mention you are a known Doctor and handsome one too, but, nowadays, you see one can never tell. Without thinking properly, youngsters make such hasty decisions to marry and then, regret it later."
Nikki squirms at the taunt in her voice.
Ignoring her taunt, Abhi smiles calmly at his mother-in-law.
"Well, in most cases, most of them are not guided properly into thinking before taking major decisions, but, I am sure you have guided Nikki well into taking the right decisions and will be proud of your teachings." The arresting smile continues to hover on his face.
Nikki was elated at his words. She was tempted to reach up and plant a kiss on his cheek.
Alarm bells begin to ring in Kavita's ears. Her son in law looked to be quiet polite and charming, but, can be a formidable one too. She nervously looks around.
"Ah! Here comes Jas" she says in relief, as she spots a man pulling a trolley with their bags on it.
He was a good looking man of average height, fair with a receding hairline, dressed in an expensive suit.
"Hey Nikki," Jas opens his arms towards her. She quickly goes to him and hugs him warmly, saying "Welcome Jas!
"Meet Abhi, my husband." Nikki motions towards Abhi with her hand.
Jas extends his hand to Abhi
"Hi Abhimanyu, I am Jasjeet Singh Ahluwalia, but you can call me Jas like everyone does."
Abhi smiles at him and shaking his hand says, "Nice meeting you Jas."
Jas looks at Nikki once again and says "You are looking even more prettier, than before. Looks like marriage has done you good."
Blushing, Nikki glances at Abhi who winks mischievously at her.
In the car, on their way home, Kavita tells Abhi "Abhi, I hope you have no problem with us staying at your place. You see, the old school of thought is that parents should not stay in a married daughter's home, but, I don't believe in such old fashion thoughts."
"Yeah, of course! It is also old fashion to attend one's daughter's wedding too," Nikki taunts, her voice saccharine sweet.
Abhi looks sideways at Nikki and makes eyes at her, motioning her to keep quiet.
He then says, "Its absolutely fine Mrs. Ahluwalia. It will be wonderful for Nikki to have close family, especially, now that we are expecting our baby."
"Nikki, you are pregnant?" asks a shocked Kavita.
Nikki nods her head throwing a glare at Abhi.
"Oh!" there was disappointment in Kavita's voice
"No wonder, her face is glowing," the excitement in Jas' voice soothes the tense atmosphere his wife's sharp tongue was creating. "Congratulations both of you!" He pats Abhi on the shoulder.
"Thanks Jas!" Abhi and Nikki reply in unison
"Oh yes! Congratulations !" Kavita manages feebly.
"Thank you" they murmur again.
When they reach home, Kavita is overwhelmed to see the huge house with interiors so tastefully and beautifully done up. After Nikki finished showing her around, they were seated in the living room, when Abhi's phone begins to ring.
"Hey Ma, how are you doing ?" he answers happily. Nikki watches him as he continues replying "Fine. She is fine too. Yeah I'll give her the phone." He hands over the phone to Nikki.
"Hello Mama," Nikki joyously greets her mother in law. Her words and enthusiasm , sends a piercing pain through Kavita's heart.
"Nikki, its been ages since we spoke, how is your aunt now?" Rachna asks her.
"Fine Mama," she replies walking over to the other room, hoping her mother in law discontinues asking her any more questions about the unknown aunt, so created by Abhi.
"So finally, someone is in a hurry to come into our world." Rachna's voice was teasing. "Congratulations Beta, This is lovely news."
"Thank you Mama and congratulations to you too. Be prepared to be called the Sexiest Daadi."
Nikki can hear peals of laughter from the other end.
"Thank you for the compliment Beta and it goes without saying you'll make a very sexy mom."
"Haan, Haan you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours." Nikki burst out laughing which was contagiously carried over to the other end.
Its been ages since she laughed so freely.
"I hope Abhi is taking good care of you. If he doesn't, just give me a call and I'll set him right." Nikki was amused, imagining Abhi's ears being pulled by Rachna.
Nikki had the urge to hug her mother in law.
"Mama, won't you come down to us?" She felt a sudden craving for motherly warmth and talking to Rachna, she realized only she could provide her with it.
"I will come soon," Rachna assures her. "But, right now enjoy your mother's warmth for the short time she is there with you. I'll come later."
'If only you knew the truth Mama,' she thinks, eyes brimming with tears.
"Take care of yourself, the little one and also my Abhi." she signs off with a bye.
Nikki clutches the phone close to her heart.
She felt a hand on her shoulder and turns to find Abhi standing there.
"Nikki, dinner is served" he tells her. Then looking at her watery eyes, his expressions change to concern. "Hey, is everything alright?"
"Yeah," Nikki nods her head trying to avoid his eyes.
"Did Ma say something?" he asks worriedly.
"No Abhi, I am fine. I just wish she was here." She walks away with a puzzled Abhi following her.
Dinner was slightly strained with mother and daughter darting barbs at each other, whenever the opportunity arose. However, Jas and Abhi managed to cool down tempers, with their funny chat and jokes. Jas tells Abhi now that he is in India, he would like to eat at good Punjabi dhabas and Abhi should take him to a few of them. He ignores his wifes glares and turned up nose at the mention of dhabas. Abhi tells him he would love to take him there. During the course of conversation, Kavita asks Abhi to call her Mom like Nikki does.
"Mrs. Ahluwalia sounds too formal," she tells him. "Now that you are family, I guess its only right you call me Mom."
"Its not necessary though," Nikki tells him. "One has to get that feeling to do it. So only if you feel like doing it, then do it."
Under the table, Abhi puts his hand over Nikki's hand, that was lying on her lap and squeezes it, warning her to stop.
"Thank you," he tells Kavita with a smile, "I would love to call you Mom."
Nikki shifts uncomfortably in her seat and tries to remove her hand from Abhi's grasp, but he holds firmly on to it. Realising he was adamant, she finally quietens down.
Later an annoyed Nikki was pacing , to and fro, on the lawn. Abhi comes and stands in front of her. He folds his hand in front of his chest and stares darkly at her.
"What is it Nikki? Why are you so rude with your mother? I understand you are upset with her because she did not attend our wedding, but, then its over now. Just forgive and move on."
"You just stay out of this!" Nikki angrily snarls at him. "You don't know anything"
"Well there you are right," unfolding his arms, Abhi shrugs. "I really don't know this Nikki. You seem to be turning into some bitter marm these days, which does no justice to your beauty.
Nikki looks at him in stunned silence.
Abhi goes closer to her and looks down into her face. Putting a finger under her chin he pushes it up to face him.
"Look at these eyes. They are so, so beautiful. They are the lights of this beautiful face. Bitterness plunges them into darkness. They should always be sparkling." Nikki feels his warm breath fanning her face. She is unable to speak.
Abhi seductively caresses her cheek. Nikki shuts and opens her eyes.
"And then, this lovely skin, these lovely cheeks. How beautifully they glow when flushed with colour. Bitterness only makes them dull and lifeless." Nikki's cheeks turn red as she revels in the compliments, his soft mesmerizing voice, was dishing out to her. It sounded like music to her ears. Abhi brings his face even more closer. The smell of his aftershave mingled with perfume, covers up her entire senses.
"And these........" Abhi says softly and pauses.
"And these what ?" Nikki urges in a whisper wanting to hear more
"And......"
"And ?" Nikki repeats
"And these lips, too beautiful for bitter words. How mesmerizing they are when they break into a smile." He runs his finger over them.
Nikki's heart begins pounding.
"Run, Nikki, Run," she hears her inner voice.
"No I want to stay. I am loving it. This is heaven," Another voice contradicts it.
"Don't be a fool, Once he claims them, you have no chance of escape."
"Gosh, they are so soft and......and.....kissable," Abhi's seductive voice breaks into her thoughts. As he bends down to kiss them, Nikki puts her hand on his lips.
"D....Don't," she fumbles, trying not to show him how much she wanted him to go ahead with the kiss. "Don't try to take liberties" she warns.
Abhi raises an eyebrow. "OK" he says resignedly making a sad fish face
Suddenly Nikki notices a slight movement from the guest room above. Through the corner of her eye, she sees her mother standing at the window. Quickly, removing her hands from Abhi's lips, she places her lips on them. Abhi is taken aback by the sudden onslaught.
'Blame it on pregnancy mood swings Boy!' he reminds himself as he succumbs to the pleasure of her lips.
"Oh, sorry to disturb you both, but I needed help," Kavita calls from above. "I want to call Amrita now and also need to charge my phone, so can I get some help?"
"I'll be there in few minutes " Abhi replies.
When Kavita goes in, he has a wicked smile on his face.
"Taking liberties with an abla nar? Now that's a delightful new side to you Nikki" he grins. Trying to hide a smile, Nikki pretends to glare at him. "Let me tell you, I just loved it," he tells her with eyes dancing with mischief.
Nikki's face changes into various colours.
"Please continue taking such liberties, I promise not to complain," Abhi teases, his face filled with mirth. Nikki looks around hoping to find something to fling at him. Realising her intention, Abhi walks off with a laugh.
Once he is out of sight, Nikki bites the corner of her lip, blushing profusely. With the shake of her head, a happy smile breaks out on her face
to be continued...
"Nervous?" Abhi asks Nikki, who was sitting beside him, twiddling her thumb. They were in the visitors lounge of the airport terminal awaiting her mother.
Nikki shakes her head in the negative, but, begins fidgeting the end of her kurti.
With a smile, Abhi shakes his head at her obstinacy.
"Nikki, relax!" he tells her taking her hand in his and pulling it tenderly over his lap. "It is only your mother," he soothes, as his fingers slowly makes space between hers, till both their fingers are firmly entwined with each other.
A tiny thought alerts Nikki to pull away, but, she begins to enjoy the comfort from the warmth of his hand.
She looks up at his face. His seductive smile begins to charm the strings of her heart and her eyes continue to be transfixed into his.
"Nikki Darling!" a husky female voice makes them turn towards it.
"Mom!" Nikki mutters as she sees her mother standing on the other side of the enclosure that separated the passengers and visitors.
They both stand up abruptly and make their way towards Kavita Ahluwalia, who was walking towards them.
She was dressed stylishly in a black shirt styled top over long black skirt and a printed scarf draped around her neck. As she got closer to them, her strong perfume begin to attack their senses. Abhi notices how mother and daughter shared well chiseled features, delicate built and diminutive stature. The sharp eyes, checking them out, signalled of a strong, domineering woman.
Nikki goes to her mother and they air kiss each other, exchanging a hug that was devoid of any warmth.
"I am so sorry, did I break your little romantic moment Honey?" she gives a fake laugh, the regret not reaching her eyes.
Abhi and Nikki smile awkwardly at her.
'Good Start!' Nikki is secretly pleased. Without even them trying hard, her mother caught them lost into each other.
"Are you okay darling?" Kavita's voice breaks into Nikki's reverie.
"I am fine," she smiles. "Meet my husband Dr. Abhimanyu Modi," she introduces, making signs at Abhi to come forward.
As he nears them, she takes his arm and possessively winds her arm around his. Amused at her action, a smile hovers on Abhi's lips. He then extends his hand towards Kavita.
"Hello Mrs. Ahluwalia!"
"Oh, Abhimanyu, nice meeting you. I am so sorry Jas and me couldn't make it to your wedding as we had already committed to something else."
"No problem," Abhi flashes a charming smile at her. "We were destined to meet, so here we are!"
"I always wondered who Nikki was marrying." Kavita glances haughtily at Nikki. "Amrita, my sister did mention you are a known Doctor and handsome one too, but, nowadays, you see one can never tell. Without thinking properly, youngsters make such hasty decisions to marry and then, regret it later."
Nikki squirms at the taunt in her voice.
Ignoring her taunt, Abhi smiles calmly at his mother-in-law.
"Well, in most cases, most of them are not guided properly into thinking before taking major decisions, but, I am sure you have guided Nikki well into taking the right decisions and will be proud of your teachings." The arresting smile continues to hover on his face.
Nikki was elated at his words. She was tempted to reach up and plant a kiss on his cheek.
Alarm bells begin to ring in Kavita's ears. Her son in law looked to be quiet polite and charming, but, can be a formidable one too. She nervously looks around.
"Ah! Here comes Jas" she says in relief, as she spots a man pulling a trolley with their bags on it.
He was a good looking man of average height, fair with a receding hairline, dressed in an expensive suit.
"Hey Nikki," Jas opens his arms towards her. She quickly goes to him and hugs him warmly, saying "Welcome Jas!
"Meet Abhi, my husband." Nikki motions towards Abhi with her hand.
Jas extends his hand to Abhi
"Hi Abhimanyu, I am Jasjeet Singh Ahluwalia, but you can call me Jas like everyone does."
Abhi smiles at him and shaking his hand says, "Nice meeting you Jas."
Jas looks at Nikki once again and says "You are looking even more prettier, than before. Looks like marriage has done you good."
Blushing, Nikki glances at Abhi who winks mischievously at her.
In the car, on their way home, Kavita tells Abhi "Abhi, I hope you have no problem with us staying at your place. You see, the old school of thought is that parents should not stay in a married daughter's home, but, I don't believe in such old fashion thoughts."
"Yeah, of course! It is also old fashion to attend one's daughter's wedding too," Nikki taunts, her voice saccharine sweet.
Abhi looks sideways at Nikki and makes eyes at her, motioning her to keep quiet.
He then says, "Its absolutely fine Mrs. Ahluwalia. It will be wonderful for Nikki to have close family, especially, now that we are expecting our baby."
"Nikki, you are pregnant?" asks a shocked Kavita.
Nikki nods her head throwing a glare at Abhi.
"Oh!" there was disappointment in Kavita's voice
"No wonder, her face is glowing," the excitement in Jas' voice soothes the tense atmosphere his wife's sharp tongue was creating. "Congratulations both of you!" He pats Abhi on the shoulder.
"Thanks Jas!" Abhi and Nikki reply in unison
"Oh yes! Congratulations !" Kavita manages feebly.
"Thank you" they murmur again.
When they reach home, Kavita is overwhelmed to see the huge house with interiors so tastefully and beautifully done up. After Nikki finished showing her around, they were seated in the living room, when Abhi's phone begins to ring.
"Hey Ma, how are you doing ?" he answers happily. Nikki watches him as he continues replying "Fine. She is fine too. Yeah I'll give her the phone." He hands over the phone to Nikki.
"Hello Mama," Nikki joyously greets her mother in law. Her words and enthusiasm , sends a piercing pain through Kavita's heart.
"Nikki, its been ages since we spoke, how is your aunt now?" Rachna asks her.
"Fine Mama," she replies walking over to the other room, hoping her mother in law discontinues asking her any more questions about the unknown aunt, so created by Abhi.
"So finally, someone is in a hurry to come into our world." Rachna's voice was teasing. "Congratulations Beta, This is lovely news."
"Thank you Mama and congratulations to you too. Be prepared to be called the Sexiest Daadi."
Nikki can hear peals of laughter from the other end.
"Thank you for the compliment Beta and it goes without saying you'll make a very sexy mom."
"Haan, Haan you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours." Nikki burst out laughing which was contagiously carried over to the other end.
Its been ages since she laughed so freely.
"I hope Abhi is taking good care of you. If he doesn't, just give me a call and I'll set him right." Nikki was amused, imagining Abhi's ears being pulled by Rachna.
Nikki had the urge to hug her mother in law.
"Mama, won't you come down to us?" She felt a sudden craving for motherly warmth and talking to Rachna, she realized only she could provide her with it.
"I will come soon," Rachna assures her. "But, right now enjoy your mother's warmth for the short time she is there with you. I'll come later."
'If only you knew the truth Mama,' she thinks, eyes brimming with tears.
"Take care of yourself, the little one and also my Abhi." she signs off with a bye.
Nikki clutches the phone close to her heart.
She felt a hand on her shoulder and turns to find Abhi standing there.
"Nikki, dinner is served" he tells her. Then looking at her watery eyes, his expressions change to concern. "Hey, is everything alright?"
"Yeah," Nikki nods her head trying to avoid his eyes.
"Did Ma say something?" he asks worriedly.
"No Abhi, I am fine. I just wish she was here." She walks away with a puzzled Abhi following her.
Dinner was slightly strained with mother and daughter darting barbs at each other, whenever the opportunity arose. However, Jas and Abhi managed to cool down tempers, with their funny chat and jokes. Jas tells Abhi now that he is in India, he would like to eat at good Punjabi dhabas and Abhi should take him to a few of them. He ignores his wifes glares and turned up nose at the mention of dhabas. Abhi tells him he would love to take him there. During the course of conversation, Kavita asks Abhi to call her Mom like Nikki does.
"Mrs. Ahluwalia sounds too formal," she tells him. "Now that you are family, I guess its only right you call me Mom."
"Its not necessary though," Nikki tells him. "One has to get that feeling to do it. So only if you feel like doing it, then do it."
Under the table, Abhi puts his hand over Nikki's hand, that was lying on her lap and squeezes it, warning her to stop.
"Thank you," he tells Kavita with a smile, "I would love to call you Mom."
Nikki shifts uncomfortably in her seat and tries to remove her hand from Abhi's grasp, but he holds firmly on to it. Realising he was adamant, she finally quietens down.
Later an annoyed Nikki was pacing , to and fro, on the lawn. Abhi comes and stands in front of her. He folds his hand in front of his chest and stares darkly at her.
"What is it Nikki? Why are you so rude with your mother? I understand you are upset with her because she did not attend our wedding, but, then its over now. Just forgive and move on."
"You just stay out of this!" Nikki angrily snarls at him. "You don't know anything"
"Well there you are right," unfolding his arms, Abhi shrugs. "I really don't know this Nikki. You seem to be turning into some bitter marm these days, which does no justice to your beauty.
Nikki looks at him in stunned silence.
Abhi goes closer to her and looks down into her face. Putting a finger under her chin he pushes it up to face him.
"Look at these eyes. They are so, so beautiful. They are the lights of this beautiful face. Bitterness plunges them into darkness. They should always be sparkling." Nikki feels his warm breath fanning her face. She is unable to speak.
Abhi seductively caresses her cheek. Nikki shuts and opens her eyes.
"And then, this lovely skin, these lovely cheeks. How beautifully they glow when flushed with colour. Bitterness only makes them dull and lifeless." Nikki's cheeks turn red as she revels in the compliments, his soft mesmerizing voice, was dishing out to her. It sounded like music to her ears. Abhi brings his face even more closer. The smell of his aftershave mingled with perfume, covers up her entire senses.
"And these........" Abhi says softly and pauses.
"And these what ?" Nikki urges in a whisper wanting to hear more
"And......"
"And ?" Nikki repeats
"And these lips, too beautiful for bitter words. How mesmerizing they are when they break into a smile." He runs his finger over them.
Nikki's heart begins pounding.
"Run, Nikki, Run," she hears her inner voice.
"No I want to stay. I am loving it. This is heaven," Another voice contradicts it.
"Don't be a fool, Once he claims them, you have no chance of escape."
"Gosh, they are so soft and......and.....kissable," Abhi's seductive voice breaks into her thoughts. As he bends down to kiss them, Nikki puts her hand on his lips.
"D....Don't," she fumbles, trying not to show him how much she wanted him to go ahead with the kiss. "Don't try to take liberties" she warns.
Abhi raises an eyebrow. "OK" he says resignedly making a sad fish face
Suddenly Nikki notices a slight movement from the guest room above. Through the corner of her eye, she sees her mother standing at the window. Quickly, removing her hands from Abhi's lips, she places her lips on them. Abhi is taken aback by the sudden onslaught.
'Blame it on pregnancy mood swings Boy!' he reminds himself as he succumbs to the pleasure of her lips.
"Oh, sorry to disturb you both, but I needed help," Kavita calls from above. "I want to call Amrita now and also need to charge my phone, so can I get some help?"
"I'll be there in few minutes " Abhi replies.
When Kavita goes in, he has a wicked smile on his face.
"Taking liberties with an abla nar? Now that's a delightful new side to you Nikki" he grins. Trying to hide a smile, Nikki pretends to glare at him. "Let me tell you, I just loved it," he tells her with eyes dancing with mischief.
Nikki's face changes into various colours.
"Please continue taking such liberties, I promise not to complain," Abhi teases, his face filled with mirth. Nikki looks around hoping to find something to fling at him. Realising her intention, Abhi walks off with a laugh.
Once he is out of sight, Nikki bites the corner of her lip, blushing profusely. With the shake of her head, a happy smile breaks out on her face
to be continued...
Thursday, January 7, 2010
CONNECTED IN LOVE - PART-8
"How are you bhabhiji?" Is your aunt fine ?"
Pushpa the housekeeper, happily greets Nikki, as she and Abhi enter the house. Nikki nods her head and smiles at her.
She looks questioningly at Abhi, standing behind her.
Bending forward, he whispers. "I told everyone you went to see an aunt who is very unwell. She needed a place to stay, due to family problems, so I offered her to work for us full time"
Seeing Pushpa's searching looks, Nikki tells her "I am fine Pushpa and so is my aunt,"
"Would you like to have anything?" Pushpa enquires eagerly.
"Yeah Nikki, you must be hungry," Abhi tells her. "Why don't you have something?"
"Actually I am feeling very tired and don't really feel like eating anything. I wouldn't mind some hot milk."
"I'll get it for you while you freshen up." Pushpa tells Nikki and makes her way towards the kitchen
Sometime later, the bedroom was highly strung with tension and silence. Awareness of the other, lying besidethem, made breathing difficult for the two people lying on the bed. Lying on his back with hands cradling his head, Abhi darts a glance towards Nikki. He finds her staring at the ceiling, lost in thoughts. He is tempted to reach out and touch her lovely face. Sensing his gaze on her, Nikki turns her eyes towards him. Their eyes clash. The longing in Abhi's eyes unnerves her. She quickly turns over to her side wondering what to do. She can feel the heat of his gaze on her back. A sense of uneasiness grips her whole body. She siits up jerkily, unable to bear the eeriness anymore.
"What happened?" Abhi asks her with concern
"Nothing," Nikki mutters, trying not to look at him. " Just thought, I'll sleep outside today."
Abhi sits up and sighs.
"There is no need for you to go," he tells her understandingly.
He, then climbs out of the bed and walks towards the door. At the door, he pauses and turns to look at her.
"I think it would be better if you come clean on what is troubling you. Perhaps, then things will be easier for all of us. No force," he shrugs. "Think about it. The choice is yours." He then walks out of the room.
Nikki keeps staring after him. She makes an irritated face at the shut door.
"Why does he always sound right?" Nikki wonders.
She turns towards the bedside table and sees the wedding gift she gave Abhi. Picking it up, she runs her hand on their picture. They looked so happy in it.
"I commit to be by your side'" she reads. Tears glisten in her eyes.
"I was always with you Abhi," she whispers, "but, you pulled the carpet from under my feet," She feels her throat pricking sorely as she chokes.
She recounts the night she saw Abhi and Sonali at The Park Hotel. She drove home like a maniac angrily wiping away tears as they kept flowing.
Packing her bag, she flings it inside the car and drives off. She didn't know where she was going. All she knew that she had to get far away from Abhi as much as she could.
Sometime later, except for a few stray cars zooming past her, the roads looked dark and deserted. It seemed like she was on a highway out of the city.
She must have driven for more than an hour, when a little distance ahead of her, she sees a car had fallen off the kerb and slammed against a tree. As she drove closer to the car, she notices an elderly man struggling to get off the car. Pulling her car to a side, Nikki quickly gets out and runs over to him. The man seemed to be in his early sixties. Blood was oozing out from the temple of his forehead having hit the steering wheel. He was panting heavily.
"Are you able to move?" Nikki asks him, looking through the window.
"My pills," he gasps breathlessly indicating to his bag lying on the adjacent seat. Nikki quickly runs over to the other side of the car and pulling out a bottle of pills, puts one in his mouth. Finding a bottle of water lying down, she helps him to drink it.
"Thank you," the man manages few minutes later as his breathing turns normal.
" The brakes failed," he explained his condition to her "and fear aggravated my astama"
"Don't worry," Nikki tells him checking his bruise. "I am a Doctor. Its just a graze, you'll be fine. Where do you live?"
"Just 2 kms away."
"I'll drop you home. However, you will have to guide me. I have no clue where we are."
"God Bless you my child," the man looks gratefully at her. "I am Sachin Mahtre and I live here in Panvel with my wife."
"I am Nikita Mo..Malhotra" she fumbles
She helps the man to her car and begins to drive.
"What were you doing out so late in the night?" perplexed, Sachin Mahtre enquires of her. "The highway isn't a safe place for a pretty girl like you."
Nikki keeps mum.
"You are running away, aren't you?" he questions her understandingly
Nikki doesn't answer. Following his directions, she continues driving till they reach his place. It was a beautiful house.
A worried Mrs. Mahtre panics seeing her bleeding husband. Nikki assures her that the wound isn't too deep and he would be fine soon. She cleans up Mr. Mahtre's wounds while Mrs. Mahtre brings some coffee for them.
As it was very late in the night, the Mahtres ask Nikki to stay with them. Next day Nikki came to know that Mr. Mahtre was the owner on an automobile showroom and the only son of the couple, has settled in Australia with his wife and two children. They used to let their top room to paying guests and their last paying guest recently moved out. They were happy to honour Nikki's request to move in as a paying guest with them. On her part, Nikki briefly told the elderly couple that she has separated from her husband and has no intention of returning back to him. Realising Nikki's reluctance to divulge anything further, they refrained from questioning her anymore.
Few weeks later, with the permission from the Mahtres, Nikki began to see patients at home. The couple grew very found of Nikki and did everything to make her comfortable at their place. They even gave her a room on the lower floor for her consultation.
To keep away thoughts of Abhi from clouding her mind, Nikki hurled herself deeply in work and started consulting patients from mid-morning till late in the evening. The first trimester of her pregnancy wasn't easy either. Bouts of morning sickness and inability to retain food, left her tired and weak.
One day Mrs. Mahtre, noticed Nikki sweating and breathing heavily. Feeling sharp thrusts of pain in her pelvic region, Nikki knew something was wrong. She informs Mrs. Mahtre she needed to go to the hospital as soon as possible or else she could lose the baby. The Mahtres were stunned to know of Nikki's pregnancy. They drive her to the nearest hospital.
The doctor on duty scolds Nikki for inspite of being a doctor she neglected herself and the baby. Stress, tiredness and lack of proper sleep almost killed the child inside her. Thankfully it was only a ligament pain due to uterine growth. She was hospitalized for two days and when she was discharged she was advised proper rest.
Back home, an overjoyed Mrs. Mahtre started fussing over Nikki. Nikki too reduced her consultations.
Finally, it dawned on her that it was time to focus on the baby completely. She is not going to let anything bad affect her and the baby. Not even Abhi. She had no intention of telling him of her pregnancy but then God willed it differently and here she was back in the same house with him.
Looking at the picture in her hand, her heart warms up to the smiling Abhi looking down lovingly into her eyes.
"After all that he has done, why don't I feel hatred towards him. I should feel it, but, somehow in my heart I don't. Why? Why ?" she keeps questioning herself.
"Should I ask him about Sonali?" she wonders.
"No, I can't do that," she shakes her head. "I can't go through that pain again." She begins to shudder. "What if he tries to cover it up with some excuse ? How will I know if it is the truth or not? No, its best I shouldn't bring that topic up. Atleast not for now. It can only upset me further. Right now my priority is the baby."
She goes out of the room and finds Abhi sitting on the couch, head leaning back, eyes closed.
Sensing her presence in the room, he opens his eyes and stares blankly at her.
"We need to talk, " Nikki tells him firmly.
"Well, about time," Abhi returns wryly.
"I don't want to talk about the past right now. So just lets leave it aside for the time being. Right now my two priorties are the baby and my mother. I want my mother to see I am happily married to you with a baby on the way."
"What about Us Nikki?" Abhi counters calmly.
"There is no Us, Abhi!" Nikki snaps back.
"And, how long can we continue like this? Why don't you just let me know what is bothering you?"
His cool composure was getting under Nikki's skin.
"No Abhi, not now, maybe some time later but not now," There was irritation in her voice. "Right now I don't want to say or hear anything about the past."
"Well suit yourself. " Abhi sighs resignedly. " I am not going to force you to tell me why you are upset with me till you, yourself, are ready to tell me. So, for now, as you say, we will forget about ourselves and concentrate on the baby and your mother . Anything else?" there was sarcasm in his voice.
Nikki nods her head. "I think its best if you sleep in our room. I don't want Pushpa to spill this to my mother."
"Oh!" Abhi mouths sardonically, with the raise of an eyebrow.
Nikki glares at him and walks off to their room.
***********************************
Next day, sometime towards the end of the evening, Abhi is passing by the reception when he sees Nikki standing there.
"Have you decided to rejoin Sanjeevani?" he questions her with a smile. " Good, Good, right now we are in need of senior doctors what with the interns due to arrive in few days."
"I'..I'" Nikki stammers.
"Nikki, ready ? shall we go?" Dr. Keerti calls from behind.
Smiling at her Nikki nods her head in confirmation.
"Dr. Modi, aren't you coming along for the ultrasound, don't you want to see your baby?" Dr. Keerti asks him.
Abhi turns ashen pale. He looks at Nikki who nervously lowers her eyes.
"You forgot, didn't you ?" Dr. Keerti teasingly chides him.
Turning towards Nikki, she tells her "Nikki, don't make the mistake of letting him get away with it. These guys think when the wife is pregnant its holiday time for them. Get him involved in everything about the baby."
Nikki finds icy glints in Abhi's eyes.
"Some people think that fathers should stay far away during pregnancy," the bitterness in his voice told Nikki he was upset.
"Abhi, I......" she tries to speak to him.
"Dr. Keerti you both proceed, I'll join you in few minutes," saying that, he ignores Nikki and walks away.
Nikki keeps staring at him. He seemed to be very upset that she did not tell him about the ultrasound.
"Good, if he is upset, Why should I care ?" she thinks. "but then why am I not feeling elated about it?" she laments from within. Damn her stupid heart! It loses its identity when he is around.
"Are you okay Nikki?" Dr. Keerti puts a hand on her arm. Nikki looks at her and gives her a feeble smile.
After applying gel over Nikki's stomach, Dr. Keerti sweeps the transducer over strategic points on her abdomen. There is a knock on the door and Abhi enters. Flashing a smile at Dr. Keerti, he stands near the bed Nikki was lying on.
"There is your baby," Dr. Keerti tells him
The life floating on the monitor bring tears to their eyes. Nikki's hand automatically reaches out and finds Abhi's arm.
"Abhi our baby," she chokingly whispers.
Patting her hand, he nods emotionally.
"We've seen babies through the Ultrasound so many times before," he mutters looking intently into the monitor, "but, its such a different feeling seeing your own," his voice was heavy.
"I agree," Nikki whispers tearfully.
Dr. Keerti smiles at them both.
"I can imagine what you both must be feeling right now," she tells them.
She proceeds to check the baby's heartbeats.
Hearing the loud sounds of hearbeats of their baby, Abhi and Nikki look at each other with moist eyes. They keep on looking at each other stunned with the realization that this life is created by them.
"You both have to see this," Dr. Keerti's amused voice brings them out of their eye contact.
She points at the monitor. A smile breaks out on their faces, as they watch in amusement, the baby sucking its thumb. The sight brings laughter from the three doctors.
"You guys are lucky we were able to catch this," Dr. Keerti tells them with a smile. They nod happily at her. After working the transducer a few more places over Nikki's abdomen, Dr Keerti sighs in relief.
"Well, then Nikki as you can see from the ultrasound, everything is fine. Your baby is growing fine. Now that you are in the second trimester and beginning the 15th week , you can sit back and enjoy your pregnancy." She hands a damp towel to Nikki.
To the surprise of the women, Abhi takes the towel from her and gently begins to wipe away the gel from Nikki's stomach. Keerti darts an amused smile at Nikki whose face is flushed with colour.
"I hope you are taking your folic acid supplements and vitamins regularly," Dr. Keerti enquires of Nikki who nods her head in confirmation.
Noticing Abhi having finished cleaning up the gel and pulling Nikki's kurti over her stomach, Dr. Keerti smiles.
"Nikki, you are very lucky," She tells her. "Not only you have a doctor as a husband, but, a loving and caring one, too. Dr. Abhimanyu Modi is sure to make a lovely father."
Abhi smiles at her.
"I will always strive to be a good husband and father, whether anyone likes it or not, " he tells her, his voice crisp. Throwing an icy glance at Nikki, he then excuses himself from a perplexed Dr. Keerti and leaves the room.
Sometime later Nikki enters Abhi's cabin, and finds he is not there. She looks around the cabin and notices everything kept in neat order, indicating he was done for the day. She calls the receptionist and enquires about Abhi. The receptionist informs her, she saw him leave Sanjeevani.
"Oh No!" she sinks down into a chair. They had to go to the airport to pick her mother. If Abhi was upset, her whole idea of showing her mother she was happily married would back fire. She dials his cell, but he doesn't pick up. As she wonders, what to do, her phone beeps a message.
"Waiting in the car for you," It was from Abhi. She heaves a sigh of relief.
As she reaches the car, she finds Abhi leaning against it, hands crossed across his chest. Seeing her walk towards him, he opens the door of the car for her.
"I thought you left," Nikki mumbles awkwardly.
Abhi does not reply. Once he is satisfied she is seated properly, he shuts the door and going over to the other side, begins to drive.
Unable to bear the long silence between them, Nikki looks at him. Will he continue to be silent like this before her mother? She must say something, but what ?' she wonders.
"Abhi I know you are upset not knowing about the ultrasound, but, then,....
"How does it matter to you Nikki what I feel? You don't want to talk, you don't want to share information. You have the upper hand so you make the rules and all I have to do is meekly follow them," he sneers "Here I am following your rules of not talking and you still have a problem with that?"
"Abhi its not like that," Dammit! why was she pleading with him?
"Oh, now I get it, you are afraid I am not going to talk to you in front of your mother," he glances sideways at her.
"Don't you worry yourself about that. I'll talk in front of your mother, in front of Pushpa, infront of Dr. Keerti and all the staff of Sanjeevani, infront of the milkman, the bhajiwalas, all the walas and walis, in front of everyone we meet," he says scowling in annoyance at her. "but, when we are alone I won't say a word. If need be, I'll even plaster a tape on my mouth, if that will satisfy you."
Nikki is unable to control her amusement. Biting her lip to stop the laughter from erupting, she quickly turns her head towards the window. Once again glancing sideways, Abhi notices Nikki trying her best to smother her laughter. Realization of his own words begin to dawn on him. A wide grin breaks out on his face.
Pushpa the housekeeper, happily greets Nikki, as she and Abhi enter the house. Nikki nods her head and smiles at her.
She looks questioningly at Abhi, standing behind her.
Bending forward, he whispers. "I told everyone you went to see an aunt who is very unwell. She needed a place to stay, due to family problems, so I offered her to work for us full time"
Seeing Pushpa's searching looks, Nikki tells her "I am fine Pushpa and so is my aunt,"
"Would you like to have anything?" Pushpa enquires eagerly.
"Yeah Nikki, you must be hungry," Abhi tells her. "Why don't you have something?"
"Actually I am feeling very tired and don't really feel like eating anything. I wouldn't mind some hot milk."
"I'll get it for you while you freshen up." Pushpa tells Nikki and makes her way towards the kitchen
Sometime later, the bedroom was highly strung with tension and silence. Awareness of the other, lying besidethem, made breathing difficult for the two people lying on the bed. Lying on his back with hands cradling his head, Abhi darts a glance towards Nikki. He finds her staring at the ceiling, lost in thoughts. He is tempted to reach out and touch her lovely face. Sensing his gaze on her, Nikki turns her eyes towards him. Their eyes clash. The longing in Abhi's eyes unnerves her. She quickly turns over to her side wondering what to do. She can feel the heat of his gaze on her back. A sense of uneasiness grips her whole body. She siits up jerkily, unable to bear the eeriness anymore.
"What happened?" Abhi asks her with concern
"Nothing," Nikki mutters, trying not to look at him. " Just thought, I'll sleep outside today."
Abhi sits up and sighs.
"There is no need for you to go," he tells her understandingly.
He, then climbs out of the bed and walks towards the door. At the door, he pauses and turns to look at her.
"I think it would be better if you come clean on what is troubling you. Perhaps, then things will be easier for all of us. No force," he shrugs. "Think about it. The choice is yours." He then walks out of the room.
Nikki keeps staring after him. She makes an irritated face at the shut door.
"Why does he always sound right?" Nikki wonders.
She turns towards the bedside table and sees the wedding gift she gave Abhi. Picking it up, she runs her hand on their picture. They looked so happy in it.
"I commit to be by your side'" she reads. Tears glisten in her eyes.
"I was always with you Abhi," she whispers, "but, you pulled the carpet from under my feet," She feels her throat pricking sorely as she chokes.
She recounts the night she saw Abhi and Sonali at The Park Hotel. She drove home like a maniac angrily wiping away tears as they kept flowing.
Packing her bag, she flings it inside the car and drives off. She didn't know where she was going. All she knew that she had to get far away from Abhi as much as she could.
Sometime later, except for a few stray cars zooming past her, the roads looked dark and deserted. It seemed like she was on a highway out of the city.
She must have driven for more than an hour, when a little distance ahead of her, she sees a car had fallen off the kerb and slammed against a tree. As she drove closer to the car, she notices an elderly man struggling to get off the car. Pulling her car to a side, Nikki quickly gets out and runs over to him. The man seemed to be in his early sixties. Blood was oozing out from the temple of his forehead having hit the steering wheel. He was panting heavily.
"Are you able to move?" Nikki asks him, looking through the window.
"My pills," he gasps breathlessly indicating to his bag lying on the adjacent seat. Nikki quickly runs over to the other side of the car and pulling out a bottle of pills, puts one in his mouth. Finding a bottle of water lying down, she helps him to drink it.
"Thank you," the man manages few minutes later as his breathing turns normal.
" The brakes failed," he explained his condition to her "and fear aggravated my astama"
"Don't worry," Nikki tells him checking his bruise. "I am a Doctor. Its just a graze, you'll be fine. Where do you live?"
"Just 2 kms away."
"I'll drop you home. However, you will have to guide me. I have no clue where we are."
"God Bless you my child," the man looks gratefully at her. "I am Sachin Mahtre and I live here in Panvel with my wife."
"I am Nikita Mo..Malhotra" she fumbles
She helps the man to her car and begins to drive.
"What were you doing out so late in the night?" perplexed, Sachin Mahtre enquires of her. "The highway isn't a safe place for a pretty girl like you."
Nikki keeps mum.
"You are running away, aren't you?" he questions her understandingly
Nikki doesn't answer. Following his directions, she continues driving till they reach his place. It was a beautiful house.
A worried Mrs. Mahtre panics seeing her bleeding husband. Nikki assures her that the wound isn't too deep and he would be fine soon. She cleans up Mr. Mahtre's wounds while Mrs. Mahtre brings some coffee for them.
As it was very late in the night, the Mahtres ask Nikki to stay with them. Next day Nikki came to know that Mr. Mahtre was the owner on an automobile showroom and the only son of the couple, has settled in Australia with his wife and two children. They used to let their top room to paying guests and their last paying guest recently moved out. They were happy to honour Nikki's request to move in as a paying guest with them. On her part, Nikki briefly told the elderly couple that she has separated from her husband and has no intention of returning back to him. Realising Nikki's reluctance to divulge anything further, they refrained from questioning her anymore.
Few weeks later, with the permission from the Mahtres, Nikki began to see patients at home. The couple grew very found of Nikki and did everything to make her comfortable at their place. They even gave her a room on the lower floor for her consultation.
To keep away thoughts of Abhi from clouding her mind, Nikki hurled herself deeply in work and started consulting patients from mid-morning till late in the evening. The first trimester of her pregnancy wasn't easy either. Bouts of morning sickness and inability to retain food, left her tired and weak.
One day Mrs. Mahtre, noticed Nikki sweating and breathing heavily. Feeling sharp thrusts of pain in her pelvic region, Nikki knew something was wrong. She informs Mrs. Mahtre she needed to go to the hospital as soon as possible or else she could lose the baby. The Mahtres were stunned to know of Nikki's pregnancy. They drive her to the nearest hospital.
The doctor on duty scolds Nikki for inspite of being a doctor she neglected herself and the baby. Stress, tiredness and lack of proper sleep almost killed the child inside her. Thankfully it was only a ligament pain due to uterine growth. She was hospitalized for two days and when she was discharged she was advised proper rest.
Back home, an overjoyed Mrs. Mahtre started fussing over Nikki. Nikki too reduced her consultations.
Finally, it dawned on her that it was time to focus on the baby completely. She is not going to let anything bad affect her and the baby. Not even Abhi. She had no intention of telling him of her pregnancy but then God willed it differently and here she was back in the same house with him.
Looking at the picture in her hand, her heart warms up to the smiling Abhi looking down lovingly into her eyes.
"After all that he has done, why don't I feel hatred towards him. I should feel it, but, somehow in my heart I don't. Why? Why ?" she keeps questioning herself.
"Should I ask him about Sonali?" she wonders.
"No, I can't do that," she shakes her head. "I can't go through that pain again." She begins to shudder. "What if he tries to cover it up with some excuse ? How will I know if it is the truth or not? No, its best I shouldn't bring that topic up. Atleast not for now. It can only upset me further. Right now my priority is the baby."
She goes out of the room and finds Abhi sitting on the couch, head leaning back, eyes closed.
Sensing her presence in the room, he opens his eyes and stares blankly at her.
"We need to talk, " Nikki tells him firmly.
"Well, about time," Abhi returns wryly.
"I don't want to talk about the past right now. So just lets leave it aside for the time being. Right now my two priorties are the baby and my mother. I want my mother to see I am happily married to you with a baby on the way."
"What about Us Nikki?" Abhi counters calmly.
"There is no Us, Abhi!" Nikki snaps back.
"And, how long can we continue like this? Why don't you just let me know what is bothering you?"
His cool composure was getting under Nikki's skin.
"No Abhi, not now, maybe some time later but not now," There was irritation in her voice. "Right now I don't want to say or hear anything about the past."
"Well suit yourself. " Abhi sighs resignedly. " I am not going to force you to tell me why you are upset with me till you, yourself, are ready to tell me. So, for now, as you say, we will forget about ourselves and concentrate on the baby and your mother . Anything else?" there was sarcasm in his voice.
Nikki nods her head. "I think its best if you sleep in our room. I don't want Pushpa to spill this to my mother."
"Oh!" Abhi mouths sardonically, with the raise of an eyebrow.
Nikki glares at him and walks off to their room.
***********************************
Next day, sometime towards the end of the evening, Abhi is passing by the reception when he sees Nikki standing there.
"Have you decided to rejoin Sanjeevani?" he questions her with a smile. " Good, Good, right now we are in need of senior doctors what with the interns due to arrive in few days."
"I'..I'" Nikki stammers.
"Nikki, ready ? shall we go?" Dr. Keerti calls from behind.
Smiling at her Nikki nods her head in confirmation.
"Dr. Modi, aren't you coming along for the ultrasound, don't you want to see your baby?" Dr. Keerti asks him.
Abhi turns ashen pale. He looks at Nikki who nervously lowers her eyes.
"You forgot, didn't you ?" Dr. Keerti teasingly chides him.
Turning towards Nikki, she tells her "Nikki, don't make the mistake of letting him get away with it. These guys think when the wife is pregnant its holiday time for them. Get him involved in everything about the baby."
Nikki finds icy glints in Abhi's eyes.
"Some people think that fathers should stay far away during pregnancy," the bitterness in his voice told Nikki he was upset.
"Abhi, I......" she tries to speak to him.
"Dr. Keerti you both proceed, I'll join you in few minutes," saying that, he ignores Nikki and walks away.
Nikki keeps staring at him. He seemed to be very upset that she did not tell him about the ultrasound.
"Good, if he is upset, Why should I care ?" she thinks. "but then why am I not feeling elated about it?" she laments from within. Damn her stupid heart! It loses its identity when he is around.
"Are you okay Nikki?" Dr. Keerti puts a hand on her arm. Nikki looks at her and gives her a feeble smile.
After applying gel over Nikki's stomach, Dr. Keerti sweeps the transducer over strategic points on her abdomen. There is a knock on the door and Abhi enters. Flashing a smile at Dr. Keerti, he stands near the bed Nikki was lying on.
"There is your baby," Dr. Keerti tells him
The life floating on the monitor bring tears to their eyes. Nikki's hand automatically reaches out and finds Abhi's arm.
"Abhi our baby," she chokingly whispers.
Patting her hand, he nods emotionally.
"We've seen babies through the Ultrasound so many times before," he mutters looking intently into the monitor, "but, its such a different feeling seeing your own," his voice was heavy.
"I agree," Nikki whispers tearfully.
Dr. Keerti smiles at them both.
"I can imagine what you both must be feeling right now," she tells them.
She proceeds to check the baby's heartbeats.
Hearing the loud sounds of hearbeats of their baby, Abhi and Nikki look at each other with moist eyes. They keep on looking at each other stunned with the realization that this life is created by them.
"You both have to see this," Dr. Keerti's amused voice brings them out of their eye contact.
She points at the monitor. A smile breaks out on their faces, as they watch in amusement, the baby sucking its thumb. The sight brings laughter from the three doctors.
"You guys are lucky we were able to catch this," Dr. Keerti tells them with a smile. They nod happily at her. After working the transducer a few more places over Nikki's abdomen, Dr Keerti sighs in relief.
"Well, then Nikki as you can see from the ultrasound, everything is fine. Your baby is growing fine. Now that you are in the second trimester and beginning the 15th week , you can sit back and enjoy your pregnancy." She hands a damp towel to Nikki.
To the surprise of the women, Abhi takes the towel from her and gently begins to wipe away the gel from Nikki's stomach. Keerti darts an amused smile at Nikki whose face is flushed with colour.
"I hope you are taking your folic acid supplements and vitamins regularly," Dr. Keerti enquires of Nikki who nods her head in confirmation.
Noticing Abhi having finished cleaning up the gel and pulling Nikki's kurti over her stomach, Dr. Keerti smiles.
"Nikki, you are very lucky," She tells her. "Not only you have a doctor as a husband, but, a loving and caring one, too. Dr. Abhimanyu Modi is sure to make a lovely father."
Abhi smiles at her.
"I will always strive to be a good husband and father, whether anyone likes it or not, " he tells her, his voice crisp. Throwing an icy glance at Nikki, he then excuses himself from a perplexed Dr. Keerti and leaves the room.
Sometime later Nikki enters Abhi's cabin, and finds he is not there. She looks around the cabin and notices everything kept in neat order, indicating he was done for the day. She calls the receptionist and enquires about Abhi. The receptionist informs her, she saw him leave Sanjeevani.
"Oh No!" she sinks down into a chair. They had to go to the airport to pick her mother. If Abhi was upset, her whole idea of showing her mother she was happily married would back fire. She dials his cell, but he doesn't pick up. As she wonders, what to do, her phone beeps a message.
"Waiting in the car for you," It was from Abhi. She heaves a sigh of relief.
As she reaches the car, she finds Abhi leaning against it, hands crossed across his chest. Seeing her walk towards him, he opens the door of the car for her.
"I thought you left," Nikki mumbles awkwardly.
Abhi does not reply. Once he is satisfied she is seated properly, he shuts the door and going over to the other side, begins to drive.
Unable to bear the long silence between them, Nikki looks at him. Will he continue to be silent like this before her mother? She must say something, but what ?' she wonders.
"Abhi I know you are upset not knowing about the ultrasound, but, then,....
"How does it matter to you Nikki what I feel? You don't want to talk, you don't want to share information. You have the upper hand so you make the rules and all I have to do is meekly follow them," he sneers "Here I am following your rules of not talking and you still have a problem with that?"
"Abhi its not like that," Dammit! why was she pleading with him?
"Oh, now I get it, you are afraid I am not going to talk to you in front of your mother," he glances sideways at her.
"Don't you worry yourself about that. I'll talk in front of your mother, in front of Pushpa, infront of Dr. Keerti and all the staff of Sanjeevani, infront of the milkman, the bhajiwalas, all the walas and walis, in front of everyone we meet," he says scowling in annoyance at her. "but, when we are alone I won't say a word. If need be, I'll even plaster a tape on my mouth, if that will satisfy you."
Nikki is unable to control her amusement. Biting her lip to stop the laughter from erupting, she quickly turns her head towards the window. Once again glancing sideways, Abhi notices Nikki trying her best to smother her laughter. Realization of his own words begin to dawn on him. A wide grin breaks out on his face.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
CONNECTED IN LOVE - PART-7
The little tender exchange between them set Nikki and Abhi thinking about the cause for the distance between them today.
Since their legal formalities were not completed, Armaan and Riddhima's going to London got postponed by a week . Instead of leaving at the end of September, they were now scheduled to leave on 5th October.
Muskaan decides to go back home and spend a months time with her family, after Armaan and Riddhima leave, before she decides on taking on any new assignment. She invites Atul and Anjali to join her who readily agree as they also wanted a break.
On the other hand, Abhi and Nikki were basking in the glory of their married life, balancing work and personal life, at times lovingly, at times bickering and then making up.
Knowing Nikki's irritation when she sees Sonali, Abhi made a conscious effort to keep a strict professional distance with her.
Abhi kept confiding in Nikki that he suspected someone is deliberately sabotaging his project and he seems to be closing on to that person.
One morning, Nikki wakes up to find Abhi bustling around the room putting things into an overnight bag. Inspite of being awake, she was still feeling so drowsy.
"Good Morning wifey," sitting down beside her, he kisses her. "so finally you are up. I've been waiting for a long time for you to wake up. You were so deep in sleep, didn't have the heart to wake you."
"Where are you going Abhi?" Nikki asks throatily. Her body was aching all over.
"Oh, not too far away. To Park Hotel in New Bombay, but, I have to stay overnight."
"Why?" Nikki asks him perplexed.
"Oh I think I will get a clear picture about my project over there tonight." he tells her excitedly.
"Are you okay?" he asks with concern seeing her difficulty in opening her eyes. "You were fast asleep when I came last night and still looking kind of drowsy?"
"Oh I don't know why I am feeling so drowsy and tired." Nikki groans.
Abhi tenderly runs his hand over her face pushing aside strands of hair spread over her face.
"Looks like you are tired sweetheart. I know I am not helping things either," he looks guiltily at her. Once again caressing her face he tells her fondly, "Do take it easy. Rest it off."
"Hmmmmn" Nikki nods.
Suddenly her eyes widen. "Tonight? Abhi tonight, Armaan and Riddhima are leaving, we planned we would see them off at the airport."
"I know Nikki," rising Abhi continues with his packing. "I spoke to Armaan and explained my inability to come. I have a meeting with the minister the next day and before that I have to do something very important."
"Surely you can come for a while Abhi," Nikki pleads.
"Nikki I'll try my best," zipping the bag, he tries to assure her but already knew in his mind, it was not going to be possible.
"I don't know Abhi , you have to come," Nikki frowns.
"Arre, Nikki I just explained to you, I cannot come"
"But then you just said you will try your best which means there is a chance of you coming." Nikki pouts
Abhi sighs. Looks like he is on dangerous grounds. Got to tread it carefully.
"Nikki I said I'll try my best but I can't promise. Its really impossible."
"Abhi If you really care for me, you'll come," Nikki says stubbornly "or else I'll know how much I really mean to you."
"Oh, Nikki please don't start these pranks of yours so early in the day. I really don't have the time."
He picks up the bag and going over to her bends to kiss her lips, but, an upset Nikki moves her face away from him. The kiss lands on her cheek. Abhi is taken aback.
"I am serious Abhi, I mean what I said. If you don't come I'll consider that you don't care for me."
Abhi rolls his eyes.
"Nikki, I have no time for this now. I'm getting late. You take care of yourself and I'll see you tomorrow. Hopefully your mood will change by then." He begins to walk out of the room.
"Abhi I am serious, You'll regret it for the rest of your life." Nikki calls out hotly, after him.
"Yeah, Yeah, I know. We will see," was Abhi's parting shot as he walks out of the room.
*****************************
Sometime in the evening, at Sanjeevani, sitting on Abhi's chair, Nikki was going through their conversation of the morning, again. She is feeling annoyed with herself. Missing him badly she snuggles into his chair, trying to feel his presence.
"Hey, what happened? Why are you looking so sad?" Riddhima asks her, entering the cabin.
"What are you doing here?" a surprised Nikki asks her "You guys are leaving tonight."
"Yeah, had some time, thought will have one look around Sanjeevani, before I leave" Riddhima tells her nostalgia on her face.
"Oh okay."
"Well what's happened to you? Fought with Abhimanyu?"
"Kind off" Nikki pulls a face.
"And who is at fault?" Riddhima probes with a knowing smile
Nikki smiles sheepishly.
"So why don't you go and make it up to him?"
"Oh he is not going to be back till tomorrow" Nikki tells her sadly.
"Why where is he?"
"He has some important work, so he is staying at The Park Hotel in New Mumbai for the night.
'Oh I see."
"Riddhima, I really don't know whats gone wrong with me these days," she confides in her. I get irritated with the smallest things and then fight with him. Then I regret it myself. Don't know why I am getting so moody. I am unable to think straight these days. My head feels so fogged all the time. I can't believe I could be so stupid and childish, warning him to come, when I know how important this whole thing is for him. I am feeling so angry and annoyed with myself."
"Oh don't worry about it Nikki, these things happen," Riddhima consoles her. " perhaps its around that time of the month for you. That's why you are feeling so low and moody."
"Just wrap your arms around him when he gets back and he'll forget he was ever upset. " she teases.
"Month?" Nikki's eyes go wandering "Oh My God, Oh My God, I think'.." She stands up saying "Riddhima Chal,"
"Whaat? Where?" Riddhima was flummoxed.
"Chalo Na" she drags Riddhima out of the room.
They did not know that someone was listening to their conversation and is dialing a number. A recorded message informs the person at the other end was not reachable.
**************************
Some time later Riddhima and Nikki were looking at the result.
"Nikki you are pregnant!" Riddhima excitedly tells a shocked Nikki who was staring at the test tube.
"Ssshhhhhh" Nikki goes, coming out of her shock.
"Oh My God, Oh My God," she paces the room holding her head. " I can't believe it,"
"This is so soon, but, this is so good, This is......" she is engulfed in a whole lot of conflicting emotions.
She runs her hand lovingly over her stomach.
"Nikki, relax," Riddhima tries to pacify.
"I am pregnant." Her face slowly begins to light up with happiness as the truth sinks into her. "I am pregnant," she looks at Riddhima gleefully.
"Congratulations," Riddhima hugs her "I am so happy for you,"
"God, I need to tell Abhi this." She dials his number.
"You'll tell him this news over the phone?" Riddhima asks, in surprise.
"No I want to check where he is," she informs her. "Shucks his phone is unreachable."
"I am dying to tell him Riddhima," an exuberant Nikki tells her. "I don't know how he'll react, what will he say?" her eyes were sparkling with excitement.
"He'll say Oh God, my sweet kiddy wife is carrying my kid? Now, I'll have two kids to handle" holding her chin, Riddhima teases her.
"Riddhima!" Nikki shrieks like a banshee. They then burst out laughing.
"I know what I'll do," Nikki says excitedly. "after seeing you guys off at the airport, I'll drive straight to him and give him the news. I can't wait to see his reaction."
"Oh I am so, so, so happy for you," Riddhima tells her hugging her tight.
*****************
There is a knock on a room at Park Hotel
"What are you doing here Sonali?"
"Sir, I have been trying to reach you for a long time. Just came to know Dr. Abhimanyu Modi is staying at the same hotel.
"That bloody Modi!" the man grunts "I knew he was a pain. Well, now that he is here, this is what we will have to do."
He then proceeds to explains the plan to Sonali and his three henchmen.
************************
Hearing a knock , Abhi opens the door of his hotel room.
He is surprised to find Sonali standing there.
"What are you doing here ? he asks her sternly.
"Oh Sir, I got the file you wanted," Sonali explains
"But then, I asked Shekhar to bring it, why did you have to come?" Abhi eyes her suspiciously. Sonali felt uncomfortable
"Oh Shekhar wasn't feeling well Sir, I also wanted to show you some important papers, can I come in?"
Abhi looks at her with skeptism.
"No, Lets go down to the lobby and see it."
"Fine Sir,"
As they begin to walk towards the lift, Abhi suddenly felt as if something was falling over him and before he could react, a heavy object falls on his head. Holding his head, he falls to the ground.
"He is really shrewd," the man sneered. "Thought it would have been better if you could drug him, but Sly Fox didn't allow you inside the room." He tells Sonali.
One henchman searches the pocket of Abhi's jeans and pulls out his room keys. They carry him inside his room. One of the guy takes off Abhi's shirt and lays him on the bed.
"Go and lie down beside him," the man instructs Sonali. "We will take pictures of both of you together. If he has any proof against us or dares to open his mouth we can use these pictures to blackmail him."
After clicking the pictures, the man tells Sonali to get dressed and come to his room. He leaves with his henchmen. As they walk out, one of the goon accidentally hits against the door stopper and walks away.
Sonali looks at the handsome doctor lying beside her. How many times she tried to lure him, but, he just didn't pay any attention on her. He had eyes only for his wife. She hated his wife. Wish she could make her life miserable. She looks at Abhi again. Today she was lucky to be on the same bed with him. She bends closer to him and lifts her finger to caress his face.
**************************
After bidding a tearful farewell to Armaan and Riddhima, Atul, Anjali and Muskaan also say their byes to Nikki as they were leaving for Amritsar early morning, the next day.
Later an excited Nikki is driving to New Bombay.
Gosh, she is carrying Abhi's baby. She blushes with the truth.
She is dying to see the expression on his face when she tells him the news.
Reaching the hotel, she enquires about the room Abhi was staying in , but, the receptionist refuses to divulge the details inspite of Nikki's pleadings. She even refused to call Abhi's room, since he had put a 'do not disturb' sign on it.
She stood there wondering what to do. Abhi wasn't picking up his cell phone either.
"Dr. Nikita? Is that you?" Nikki turns and is surprised to see one of her ex-patient's sister.
"Anjali Right?"
"Yes," she confirmed. "What are you doing here?"
Nikki tells her she has come to meet Abhi but doesn't know his room number.
"I knew there was something between you and Dr. Modi," Anjali laughs. " Noticed how you both , would, keep looking at each other." Nikki blushes.
With Anjali's help she managed to get Abhi's room number.
There was a bounce in her steps as she excitedly takes the elevator to the third floor and looks around for the room. Unknowing to her, she just missed the man and his henchmen as they got into the next elevator.
Finding the room, she is surprised to find the door slightly open, held by the door stopper. Maybe he is on his way out and forgot to pick up something, she smiles.
Saying a cheerful "SURPRISE!" she push opens the door.
She is stunned to see a woman bending over someone lying on the bed. Caught unawares with her entry, Sonali quickly turns and then leans back seeing Nikki. Nikki's eyes open wide in shock as she finds a bare chested Abhi sprawled on the bed. The colour drains out from her face. She feels her whole world spinning. She is paralysed into numbness.
"Oh My God, Dr. Nikita, how did you find us out?" Pretending innocence, Sonali makes her way to the door. Nikki is disgusted to see her dressed in a short, strappy, flimsy dress with the cleavage way too low.
She stands there staring at Abhi who seemed to be in a deep slumber. She doesn't know what to do or say. Her head was feeling even more foggier than before.
"How long has this been going on?" she manages to mumble
Sonali bows her head down. "For few weeks."
She looks at Abhi again.
The fact that he was sleeping blissfully while her world had collapsed, makes anger mingle with her pain.
Turning back, she runs away. An evil smile appears on Sonali's face.
She hears Abhi stirring. Putting two tablets in a glass of water, she goes to him. She sees him groaning in a semi conscious state and trying to open his eyes.
"Dr. Modi, are you okay? Here drink some water," she pretends concern whilst forcing the water down his throat.
Few minutes later Abhi blacks out completely.
Sonali goes to the Man's room "Your work is done Sir, He'll be out till late morning. You have nothing to fear now.
****************
Like a lifeless body, a devastated Nikki makes her way towards the car.
Sitting in the driver's seat, she cannot believe at what she just saw, but then, she did see it.
She now realized what agony those women go through when their husbands, who are so sweet and loving to them, secretly cheat on them on the quiet.
But then, this was her Abhi. Her Abhi who was incapable of hurting or cheating anyone. Her Abhi, whom she loved and trusted, who loved her or atleast made her believe that till now. He did everything to please her. He even maintained a distance from Sonali when he realized she was not happy about it.
Oh My God, her eyes suddenly grow big in a shocking realization. Does this mean, alerted by her jealousy, he was deliberately cold to Sonali so that Nikki doesn't get mad at him? Surely this can't be her Abhi. Even if someone told her about it, she would never have believed that person.
But, then, she has seen it with her own eyes. Oh My God, its true that even, the sweetest and caring man cannot be trusted these days.
Tears are flowing like a never ending river on to her red dupatta and the steering wheel.
What a day! Her friends are gone, she witnessed the horror of her husband's betrayal and yet, today got the beautiful revelation of a life inside her.
She runs her hand on her stomach, "My baby, growing inside me, Mine and His baby," her head jerks up in the realization.
No, I am not going to have this baby, I cannot have it. I don't want anything of his, I don't want him in my life. I'll kill the baby, I'll kill myself," she was a mass of emotional turbulence. She hits her head against the steering wheel.
Sobbing bitterly she cries out loud "What do I do? Oh God, what do I do?" Her throat was hurting. Her head was heavy. She was finding it difficult to breathe. Taking few deep breaths she manages to calm herself.
"Why should I punish the baby for the father's misdoings? No, I can't harm it. But, I can't live with Abhi and give him the satisfaction of becoming a father. He needs to pay for it. I will leave him forever. Let him wonder all his life why I left him, that is, if he cares. I don't care what he thinks. Now it will only be, the baby and Me. I am removing Abhi from my life completely." Having made up her mind, she wipes away the tears, which stubbornly refuse to stop flowing. With a heavy heart, she starts driving.
******************
Abhi wakes up groggily. His head was pounding and felt heavy. His eyes were blurred. He is surprised to find himself shirtless. Wobbily he stands up and drags himself to the washroom, stumbling on the way.
Splashing water on his face, he tries to recollect what happened to him. He runs his fingers through his hair and finds them getting stuck in a mesh of hair. There was pain as he tugged the hair. He pulls out a tiny clot of blood . Last he recalled walking out with Sonali when he was hit with an object. "Was this Sonali's doing?" he begins to wonder. "It has to be."
There was a continuous ring of the doorbell. Treading heavily, he drags himself and opens the door. Finding a bell boy standing there, he ushers him in.
"Sir where have you been. I have knocked so many times, but you just didn't open the door. I was so worried. I have finished my shift two hours ago and can't be seen in the hotel."
"I am sorry, I got into a bit of a problem," Abhi tells him wearily holding his head.
"Is everything okay Sir?" the bell boy checks with concern.
"Yeah, Yeah, Its fine." Abhi smiles weakly at him. "Is the job done?
"Absolutely Sir," he confirms with pride, handing something to Abhi.
"Thank you," Abhi smiles at him handing him a wad of notes.
The boy leaves.
Abhi looks at his watch.
"Damn its 10 o'clock," he exclaims. He was to meet the minister at 9 am.
He quickly rushes back to the washroom.
***************************
"Where is Dr. Abhimanyu Modi?" the minister enquires.
"I don't think he'll come Sir," Mr Patil tells him. " He must have not found the finance for the project, so he must have decided not to come."
Suddenly the audio visual starts playing.
Mr. Patil watches in horror as scenes of his hotel room dealing with a client, Sonali warning him about Dr. Modi's stay in the hotel, his explanation of a plan, to Sonali, to drug Dr. Modi so that they could blackmail him later with pictures and MMS clips , were all being displayed on the audio visual.
He turns and find Abhi standing there, hands folded across his chest , eyes chillingly on Patil.
"Thank you Dr. Modi," the minister tells him "for bringing out this culprit to the fore. I am sorry for not paying heed to you earlier."
"Surprised Mr. Patil?" Abhi asks him coldly. "After checking around, I realized that the financiers who backed out, never found anything wrong with my project, they were all brainwashed into believing it was wrong. I then realized that whoever was brainwashing them, had to do so because they wanted the project to be scrapped and the land to go to someone else. Searching around, I zeroed down on your front man, Mr. Patil. You smartly used someone else as a front and started brainwashing everyone, my financiers, the minister against my project. The reason is because you are promised a fairly high commission for that land. Today, this audio visual clearly reveals that you are the culprit."
Patil goes numb. He realized it was the end of his game.
"Arrest him," The minister orders the assistant commissioner of police (ACP) who had entered along with Abhi. Another two policemen bring the henchmen in front. "Sir we have recovered all the picture clips, cameras, and other things from these men." One of them informs the minister.
"You don't have to worry Dr. Modi, nothing will happen to your reputation. We will see to that," the minister assures him. "I have just one request, can we keep this under wraps. I've always strived to maintain a clean image for this ministry, but elements like these," he glares at Patil, "spoil our image"
"Don't worry Sir," No one will know about it," Abhi confirms.
Walking out with the ACP, he comes across Sonali who was being interrogated by the police.
" Dr. Modi, please save me, I am sorry, I needed the money." she mumbles.
"So you sold your soul ?" Abhi shoots back at her. "My wife was always right about you, You are a complete B''.." he checks himself on time.
"Please Dr. Modi," she begs.
"Just stay away from me," Abhi warns her angrily "or else I'll press for attempt to murder charges on you. Don't forget you drugged me in an unconscious state. It could have been fatal too. Just stay away from me."
He walks away in disgust.
"Dr. Modi, I am not going to tell you that your wife saw us together," Sonali thinks in her mind. "I am sure you'll have a surprise in store for you when you reach home." She smiles. "Who knows perhaps someday you may need my shoulders during your lonely days."
*************************
"Nikki!" Abhi smiles as her face flashes in front of his eyes.
He tries calling her cell phone but she doesn't respond. He tries the house phone. But no luck either.
He calls up Sanjeevani and is informed Dr. Nikita has not come today.
"Perhaps she is resting." He thinks. "She was tired yesterday and after seeing Armaan and Riddhima off, she must be even more tired. Hope her mood is good. Oh I am sure she was playing a prank on me. Her demand itself sounded so ridiculous," he smiles. "and she thinks I am going to fall for it. She is such a prankster," he smiles happily.
He sits in his car and starts driving.
"Wonder how will she react when I tell her about Patil and Sonali." Abhi thinks.
"Sonali," Abhi remembers how he began suspecting Sonali after Nikki fought with him over her. He realized that Nikki's anger was stemming from somewhere. Perhaps, when he was not around, she did give Nikki cause to feel jealous and angry. He kept a close watch on Sonali and realised she was planted by someone to keep an eye on him.
Through her, he reached to Patil's front man and the deal that was going to happen at Hotel Park. He deliberately did not tell Sonali about staying in the hotel. It was difficult to convince the minister without going through Patil.
Now he realizes, it was good he didn't tell Patil anything about it. He somehow never liked that man, especially the way he eyed Nikki.
With difficulty, through a friend's contact , he managed to get the minister to hear him out and give him a chance to prove his point. With the help of the bell boy, he placed the video camera in the room and Patil got revealed.
"Nikki will be so delighted to know how right she was," he mumbles.
"You should always listen to your wife, Doctor Sahab" Abhi can picture her telling him that. A twisted smile breaks out on his face.
"Yeah, yeah," he mutters happily to himself. "after all, I have such a lovely wife. Love you Nikki. Love you for loving me so much that you will even fight with me for my sake."
Gosh, He can't wait to reach home and take her in his arms !
It was late afternoon when Abhi finally reached home.
"Biwi?" he calls out cheerfully as he goes inside. He doesn't find her in their room. He begins to go around check ong the other rooms, calling out lovingly, "Hey wifey, where are you?"
He gets no response, He calls out again. Did she finally go to Sanjeevani ?" he wonders.
He calls her cell and hears it ringing in the room. He notices it fallen on the floor. 'Surprising, she didn't take her cell,' his eyes narrow in wonder.
He calls Sanjeevani and is informed she did not come at all. He begins to worry. He looks around and suddenly spots a note lying below the framed picture she gave him as a wedding gift.
"Abhi, I've finally discovered I mean nothing to you. I am walking out of your life for good. I don't want to continue with this marriage any more, so don't look out for me and also don't let my family and friends know about this. Nikki"
Abhi felt his insides shattering into pieces, piercing him deeply from within. With a sinking heart he slumps down on the bed with a shocked "NO"
"No," he yells as he swerves the car to a halt.
Startled, Nikki instinctively puts her hand on his thigh.
"Abhi are you okay? Are you alright?"
Taking a deep breath, Abhi opens and shuts his eyes as if trying to focus clearly. He then runs his hand agonizingly over his face. Slowly, he turns to look at her.
He notices she has her left her hand on her stomach and the right on his thigh, as if trying to protect both of them.
"Oh My God, Nikki," realizing he almost endangered her life, he quickly places his hand over her stomach. "Oh God, Nikki, I am so sorry. Are you alright."
"I am fine Abhi, but what about you? Are you okay?" there was concern in her voice.
He looks at her hand tenderly over his thigh. Following his gaze, she notices her hand too.
Surprised by her own instinctiveness, she slowly draws her hand away.
A flicker of hope begins to burn inside Abhi.
She does care for him. She does. I hope she does.
He looks at both their hands, protectively, on her stomach. "And, we do care for you Baby. We Do."
to be continued..........
Since their legal formalities were not completed, Armaan and Riddhima's going to London got postponed by a week . Instead of leaving at the end of September, they were now scheduled to leave on 5th October.
Muskaan decides to go back home and spend a months time with her family, after Armaan and Riddhima leave, before she decides on taking on any new assignment. She invites Atul and Anjali to join her who readily agree as they also wanted a break.
On the other hand, Abhi and Nikki were basking in the glory of their married life, balancing work and personal life, at times lovingly, at times bickering and then making up.
Knowing Nikki's irritation when she sees Sonali, Abhi made a conscious effort to keep a strict professional distance with her.
Abhi kept confiding in Nikki that he suspected someone is deliberately sabotaging his project and he seems to be closing on to that person.
One morning, Nikki wakes up to find Abhi bustling around the room putting things into an overnight bag. Inspite of being awake, she was still feeling so drowsy.
"Good Morning wifey," sitting down beside her, he kisses her. "so finally you are up. I've been waiting for a long time for you to wake up. You were so deep in sleep, didn't have the heart to wake you."
"Where are you going Abhi?" Nikki asks throatily. Her body was aching all over.
"Oh, not too far away. To Park Hotel in New Bombay, but, I have to stay overnight."
"Why?" Nikki asks him perplexed.
"Oh I think I will get a clear picture about my project over there tonight." he tells her excitedly.
"Are you okay?" he asks with concern seeing her difficulty in opening her eyes. "You were fast asleep when I came last night and still looking kind of drowsy?"
"Oh I don't know why I am feeling so drowsy and tired." Nikki groans.
Abhi tenderly runs his hand over her face pushing aside strands of hair spread over her face.
"Looks like you are tired sweetheart. I know I am not helping things either," he looks guiltily at her. Once again caressing her face he tells her fondly, "Do take it easy. Rest it off."
"Hmmmmn" Nikki nods.
Suddenly her eyes widen. "Tonight? Abhi tonight, Armaan and Riddhima are leaving, we planned we would see them off at the airport."
"I know Nikki," rising Abhi continues with his packing. "I spoke to Armaan and explained my inability to come. I have a meeting with the minister the next day and before that I have to do something very important."
"Surely you can come for a while Abhi," Nikki pleads.
"Nikki I'll try my best," zipping the bag, he tries to assure her but already knew in his mind, it was not going to be possible.
"I don't know Abhi , you have to come," Nikki frowns.
"Arre, Nikki I just explained to you, I cannot come"
"But then you just said you will try your best which means there is a chance of you coming." Nikki pouts
Abhi sighs. Looks like he is on dangerous grounds. Got to tread it carefully.
"Nikki I said I'll try my best but I can't promise. Its really impossible."
"Abhi If you really care for me, you'll come," Nikki says stubbornly "or else I'll know how much I really mean to you."
"Oh, Nikki please don't start these pranks of yours so early in the day. I really don't have the time."
He picks up the bag and going over to her bends to kiss her lips, but, an upset Nikki moves her face away from him. The kiss lands on her cheek. Abhi is taken aback.
"I am serious Abhi, I mean what I said. If you don't come I'll consider that you don't care for me."
Abhi rolls his eyes.
"Nikki, I have no time for this now. I'm getting late. You take care of yourself and I'll see you tomorrow. Hopefully your mood will change by then." He begins to walk out of the room.
"Abhi I am serious, You'll regret it for the rest of your life." Nikki calls out hotly, after him.
"Yeah, Yeah, I know. We will see," was Abhi's parting shot as he walks out of the room.
*****************************
Sometime in the evening, at Sanjeevani, sitting on Abhi's chair, Nikki was going through their conversation of the morning, again. She is feeling annoyed with herself. Missing him badly she snuggles into his chair, trying to feel his presence.
"Hey, what happened? Why are you looking so sad?" Riddhima asks her, entering the cabin.
"What are you doing here?" a surprised Nikki asks her "You guys are leaving tonight."
"Yeah, had some time, thought will have one look around Sanjeevani, before I leave" Riddhima tells her nostalgia on her face.
"Oh okay."
"Well what's happened to you? Fought with Abhimanyu?"
"Kind off" Nikki pulls a face.
"And who is at fault?" Riddhima probes with a knowing smile
Nikki smiles sheepishly.
"So why don't you go and make it up to him?"
"Oh he is not going to be back till tomorrow" Nikki tells her sadly.
"Why where is he?"
"He has some important work, so he is staying at The Park Hotel in New Mumbai for the night.
'Oh I see."
"Riddhima, I really don't know whats gone wrong with me these days," she confides in her. I get irritated with the smallest things and then fight with him. Then I regret it myself. Don't know why I am getting so moody. I am unable to think straight these days. My head feels so fogged all the time. I can't believe I could be so stupid and childish, warning him to come, when I know how important this whole thing is for him. I am feeling so angry and annoyed with myself."
"Oh don't worry about it Nikki, these things happen," Riddhima consoles her. " perhaps its around that time of the month for you. That's why you are feeling so low and moody."
"Just wrap your arms around him when he gets back and he'll forget he was ever upset. " she teases.
"Month?" Nikki's eyes go wandering "Oh My God, Oh My God, I think'.." She stands up saying "Riddhima Chal,"
"Whaat? Where?" Riddhima was flummoxed.
"Chalo Na" she drags Riddhima out of the room.
They did not know that someone was listening to their conversation and is dialing a number. A recorded message informs the person at the other end was not reachable.
**************************
Some time later Riddhima and Nikki were looking at the result.
"Nikki you are pregnant!" Riddhima excitedly tells a shocked Nikki who was staring at the test tube.
"Ssshhhhhh" Nikki goes, coming out of her shock.
"Oh My God, Oh My God," she paces the room holding her head. " I can't believe it,"
"This is so soon, but, this is so good, This is......" she is engulfed in a whole lot of conflicting emotions.
She runs her hand lovingly over her stomach.
"Nikki, relax," Riddhima tries to pacify.
"I am pregnant." Her face slowly begins to light up with happiness as the truth sinks into her. "I am pregnant," she looks at Riddhima gleefully.
"Congratulations," Riddhima hugs her "I am so happy for you,"
"God, I need to tell Abhi this." She dials his number.
"You'll tell him this news over the phone?" Riddhima asks, in surprise.
"No I want to check where he is," she informs her. "Shucks his phone is unreachable."
"I am dying to tell him Riddhima," an exuberant Nikki tells her. "I don't know how he'll react, what will he say?" her eyes were sparkling with excitement.
"He'll say Oh God, my sweet kiddy wife is carrying my kid? Now, I'll have two kids to handle" holding her chin, Riddhima teases her.
"Riddhima!" Nikki shrieks like a banshee. They then burst out laughing.
"I know what I'll do," Nikki says excitedly. "after seeing you guys off at the airport, I'll drive straight to him and give him the news. I can't wait to see his reaction."
"Oh I am so, so, so happy for you," Riddhima tells her hugging her tight.
*****************
There is a knock on a room at Park Hotel
"What are you doing here Sonali?"
"Sir, I have been trying to reach you for a long time. Just came to know Dr. Abhimanyu Modi is staying at the same hotel.
"That bloody Modi!" the man grunts "I knew he was a pain. Well, now that he is here, this is what we will have to do."
He then proceeds to explains the plan to Sonali and his three henchmen.
************************
Hearing a knock , Abhi opens the door of his hotel room.
He is surprised to find Sonali standing there.
"What are you doing here ? he asks her sternly.
"Oh Sir, I got the file you wanted," Sonali explains
"But then, I asked Shekhar to bring it, why did you have to come?" Abhi eyes her suspiciously. Sonali felt uncomfortable
"Oh Shekhar wasn't feeling well Sir, I also wanted to show you some important papers, can I come in?"
Abhi looks at her with skeptism.
"No, Lets go down to the lobby and see it."
"Fine Sir,"
As they begin to walk towards the lift, Abhi suddenly felt as if something was falling over him and before he could react, a heavy object falls on his head. Holding his head, he falls to the ground.
"He is really shrewd," the man sneered. "Thought it would have been better if you could drug him, but Sly Fox didn't allow you inside the room." He tells Sonali.
One henchman searches the pocket of Abhi's jeans and pulls out his room keys. They carry him inside his room. One of the guy takes off Abhi's shirt and lays him on the bed.
"Go and lie down beside him," the man instructs Sonali. "We will take pictures of both of you together. If he has any proof against us or dares to open his mouth we can use these pictures to blackmail him."
After clicking the pictures, the man tells Sonali to get dressed and come to his room. He leaves with his henchmen. As they walk out, one of the goon accidentally hits against the door stopper and walks away.
Sonali looks at the handsome doctor lying beside her. How many times she tried to lure him, but, he just didn't pay any attention on her. He had eyes only for his wife. She hated his wife. Wish she could make her life miserable. She looks at Abhi again. Today she was lucky to be on the same bed with him. She bends closer to him and lifts her finger to caress his face.
**************************
After bidding a tearful farewell to Armaan and Riddhima, Atul, Anjali and Muskaan also say their byes to Nikki as they were leaving for Amritsar early morning, the next day.
Later an excited Nikki is driving to New Bombay.
Gosh, she is carrying Abhi's baby. She blushes with the truth.
She is dying to see the expression on his face when she tells him the news.
Reaching the hotel, she enquires about the room Abhi was staying in , but, the receptionist refuses to divulge the details inspite of Nikki's pleadings. She even refused to call Abhi's room, since he had put a 'do not disturb' sign on it.
She stood there wondering what to do. Abhi wasn't picking up his cell phone either.
"Dr. Nikita? Is that you?" Nikki turns and is surprised to see one of her ex-patient's sister.
"Anjali Right?"
"Yes," she confirmed. "What are you doing here?"
Nikki tells her she has come to meet Abhi but doesn't know his room number.
"I knew there was something between you and Dr. Modi," Anjali laughs. " Noticed how you both , would, keep looking at each other." Nikki blushes.
With Anjali's help she managed to get Abhi's room number.
There was a bounce in her steps as she excitedly takes the elevator to the third floor and looks around for the room. Unknowing to her, she just missed the man and his henchmen as they got into the next elevator.
Finding the room, she is surprised to find the door slightly open, held by the door stopper. Maybe he is on his way out and forgot to pick up something, she smiles.
Saying a cheerful "SURPRISE!" she push opens the door.
She is stunned to see a woman bending over someone lying on the bed. Caught unawares with her entry, Sonali quickly turns and then leans back seeing Nikki. Nikki's eyes open wide in shock as she finds a bare chested Abhi sprawled on the bed. The colour drains out from her face. She feels her whole world spinning. She is paralysed into numbness.
"Oh My God, Dr. Nikita, how did you find us out?" Pretending innocence, Sonali makes her way to the door. Nikki is disgusted to see her dressed in a short, strappy, flimsy dress with the cleavage way too low.
She stands there staring at Abhi who seemed to be in a deep slumber. She doesn't know what to do or say. Her head was feeling even more foggier than before.
"How long has this been going on?" she manages to mumble
Sonali bows her head down. "For few weeks."
She looks at Abhi again.
The fact that he was sleeping blissfully while her world had collapsed, makes anger mingle with her pain.
Turning back, she runs away. An evil smile appears on Sonali's face.
She hears Abhi stirring. Putting two tablets in a glass of water, she goes to him. She sees him groaning in a semi conscious state and trying to open his eyes.
"Dr. Modi, are you okay? Here drink some water," she pretends concern whilst forcing the water down his throat.
Few minutes later Abhi blacks out completely.
Sonali goes to the Man's room "Your work is done Sir, He'll be out till late morning. You have nothing to fear now.
****************
Like a lifeless body, a devastated Nikki makes her way towards the car.
Sitting in the driver's seat, she cannot believe at what she just saw, but then, she did see it.
She now realized what agony those women go through when their husbands, who are so sweet and loving to them, secretly cheat on them on the quiet.
But then, this was her Abhi. Her Abhi who was incapable of hurting or cheating anyone. Her Abhi, whom she loved and trusted, who loved her or atleast made her believe that till now. He did everything to please her. He even maintained a distance from Sonali when he realized she was not happy about it.
Oh My God, her eyes suddenly grow big in a shocking realization. Does this mean, alerted by her jealousy, he was deliberately cold to Sonali so that Nikki doesn't get mad at him? Surely this can't be her Abhi. Even if someone told her about it, she would never have believed that person.
But, then, she has seen it with her own eyes. Oh My God, its true that even, the sweetest and caring man cannot be trusted these days.
Tears are flowing like a never ending river on to her red dupatta and the steering wheel.
What a day! Her friends are gone, she witnessed the horror of her husband's betrayal and yet, today got the beautiful revelation of a life inside her.
She runs her hand on her stomach, "My baby, growing inside me, Mine and His baby," her head jerks up in the realization.
No, I am not going to have this baby, I cannot have it. I don't want anything of his, I don't want him in my life. I'll kill the baby, I'll kill myself," she was a mass of emotional turbulence. She hits her head against the steering wheel.
Sobbing bitterly she cries out loud "What do I do? Oh God, what do I do?" Her throat was hurting. Her head was heavy. She was finding it difficult to breathe. Taking few deep breaths she manages to calm herself.
"Why should I punish the baby for the father's misdoings? No, I can't harm it. But, I can't live with Abhi and give him the satisfaction of becoming a father. He needs to pay for it. I will leave him forever. Let him wonder all his life why I left him, that is, if he cares. I don't care what he thinks. Now it will only be, the baby and Me. I am removing Abhi from my life completely." Having made up her mind, she wipes away the tears, which stubbornly refuse to stop flowing. With a heavy heart, she starts driving.
******************
Abhi wakes up groggily. His head was pounding and felt heavy. His eyes were blurred. He is surprised to find himself shirtless. Wobbily he stands up and drags himself to the washroom, stumbling on the way.
Splashing water on his face, he tries to recollect what happened to him. He runs his fingers through his hair and finds them getting stuck in a mesh of hair. There was pain as he tugged the hair. He pulls out a tiny clot of blood . Last he recalled walking out with Sonali when he was hit with an object. "Was this Sonali's doing?" he begins to wonder. "It has to be."
There was a continuous ring of the doorbell. Treading heavily, he drags himself and opens the door. Finding a bell boy standing there, he ushers him in.
"Sir where have you been. I have knocked so many times, but you just didn't open the door. I was so worried. I have finished my shift two hours ago and can't be seen in the hotel."
"I am sorry, I got into a bit of a problem," Abhi tells him wearily holding his head.
"Is everything okay Sir?" the bell boy checks with concern.
"Yeah, Yeah, Its fine." Abhi smiles weakly at him. "Is the job done?
"Absolutely Sir," he confirms with pride, handing something to Abhi.
"Thank you," Abhi smiles at him handing him a wad of notes.
The boy leaves.
Abhi looks at his watch.
"Damn its 10 o'clock," he exclaims. He was to meet the minister at 9 am.
He quickly rushes back to the washroom.
***************************
"Where is Dr. Abhimanyu Modi?" the minister enquires.
"I don't think he'll come Sir," Mr Patil tells him. " He must have not found the finance for the project, so he must have decided not to come."
Suddenly the audio visual starts playing.
Mr. Patil watches in horror as scenes of his hotel room dealing with a client, Sonali warning him about Dr. Modi's stay in the hotel, his explanation of a plan, to Sonali, to drug Dr. Modi so that they could blackmail him later with pictures and MMS clips , were all being displayed on the audio visual.
He turns and find Abhi standing there, hands folded across his chest , eyes chillingly on Patil.
"Thank you Dr. Modi," the minister tells him "for bringing out this culprit to the fore. I am sorry for not paying heed to you earlier."
"Surprised Mr. Patil?" Abhi asks him coldly. "After checking around, I realized that the financiers who backed out, never found anything wrong with my project, they were all brainwashed into believing it was wrong. I then realized that whoever was brainwashing them, had to do so because they wanted the project to be scrapped and the land to go to someone else. Searching around, I zeroed down on your front man, Mr. Patil. You smartly used someone else as a front and started brainwashing everyone, my financiers, the minister against my project. The reason is because you are promised a fairly high commission for that land. Today, this audio visual clearly reveals that you are the culprit."
Patil goes numb. He realized it was the end of his game.
"Arrest him," The minister orders the assistant commissioner of police (ACP) who had entered along with Abhi. Another two policemen bring the henchmen in front. "Sir we have recovered all the picture clips, cameras, and other things from these men." One of them informs the minister.
"You don't have to worry Dr. Modi, nothing will happen to your reputation. We will see to that," the minister assures him. "I have just one request, can we keep this under wraps. I've always strived to maintain a clean image for this ministry, but elements like these," he glares at Patil, "spoil our image"
"Don't worry Sir," No one will know about it," Abhi confirms.
Walking out with the ACP, he comes across Sonali who was being interrogated by the police.
" Dr. Modi, please save me, I am sorry, I needed the money." she mumbles.
"So you sold your soul ?" Abhi shoots back at her. "My wife was always right about you, You are a complete B''.." he checks himself on time.
"Please Dr. Modi," she begs.
"Just stay away from me," Abhi warns her angrily "or else I'll press for attempt to murder charges on you. Don't forget you drugged me in an unconscious state. It could have been fatal too. Just stay away from me."
He walks away in disgust.
"Dr. Modi, I am not going to tell you that your wife saw us together," Sonali thinks in her mind. "I am sure you'll have a surprise in store for you when you reach home." She smiles. "Who knows perhaps someday you may need my shoulders during your lonely days."
*************************
"Nikki!" Abhi smiles as her face flashes in front of his eyes.
He tries calling her cell phone but she doesn't respond. He tries the house phone. But no luck either.
He calls up Sanjeevani and is informed Dr. Nikita has not come today.
"Perhaps she is resting." He thinks. "She was tired yesterday and after seeing Armaan and Riddhima off, she must be even more tired. Hope her mood is good. Oh I am sure she was playing a prank on me. Her demand itself sounded so ridiculous," he smiles. "and she thinks I am going to fall for it. She is such a prankster," he smiles happily.
He sits in his car and starts driving.
"Wonder how will she react when I tell her about Patil and Sonali." Abhi thinks.
"Sonali," Abhi remembers how he began suspecting Sonali after Nikki fought with him over her. He realized that Nikki's anger was stemming from somewhere. Perhaps, when he was not around, she did give Nikki cause to feel jealous and angry. He kept a close watch on Sonali and realised she was planted by someone to keep an eye on him.
Through her, he reached to Patil's front man and the deal that was going to happen at Hotel Park. He deliberately did not tell Sonali about staying in the hotel. It was difficult to convince the minister without going through Patil.
Now he realizes, it was good he didn't tell Patil anything about it. He somehow never liked that man, especially the way he eyed Nikki.
With difficulty, through a friend's contact , he managed to get the minister to hear him out and give him a chance to prove his point. With the help of the bell boy, he placed the video camera in the room and Patil got revealed.
"Nikki will be so delighted to know how right she was," he mumbles.
"You should always listen to your wife, Doctor Sahab" Abhi can picture her telling him that. A twisted smile breaks out on his face.
"Yeah, yeah," he mutters happily to himself. "after all, I have such a lovely wife. Love you Nikki. Love you for loving me so much that you will even fight with me for my sake."
Gosh, He can't wait to reach home and take her in his arms !
It was late afternoon when Abhi finally reached home.
"Biwi?" he calls out cheerfully as he goes inside. He doesn't find her in their room. He begins to go around check ong the other rooms, calling out lovingly, "Hey wifey, where are you?"
He gets no response, He calls out again. Did she finally go to Sanjeevani ?" he wonders.
He calls her cell and hears it ringing in the room. He notices it fallen on the floor. 'Surprising, she didn't take her cell,' his eyes narrow in wonder.
He calls Sanjeevani and is informed she did not come at all. He begins to worry. He looks around and suddenly spots a note lying below the framed picture she gave him as a wedding gift.
"Abhi, I've finally discovered I mean nothing to you. I am walking out of your life for good. I don't want to continue with this marriage any more, so don't look out for me and also don't let my family and friends know about this. Nikki"
Abhi felt his insides shattering into pieces, piercing him deeply from within. With a sinking heart he slumps down on the bed with a shocked "NO"
"No," he yells as he swerves the car to a halt.
Startled, Nikki instinctively puts her hand on his thigh.
"Abhi are you okay? Are you alright?"
Taking a deep breath, Abhi opens and shuts his eyes as if trying to focus clearly. He then runs his hand agonizingly over his face. Slowly, he turns to look at her.
He notices she has her left her hand on her stomach and the right on his thigh, as if trying to protect both of them.
"Oh My God, Nikki," realizing he almost endangered her life, he quickly places his hand over her stomach. "Oh God, Nikki, I am so sorry. Are you alright."
"I am fine Abhi, but what about you? Are you okay?" there was concern in her voice.
He looks at her hand tenderly over his thigh. Following his gaze, she notices her hand too.
Surprised by her own instinctiveness, she slowly draws her hand away.
A flicker of hope begins to burn inside Abhi.
She does care for him. She does. I hope she does.
He looks at both their hands, protectively, on her stomach. "And, we do care for you Baby. We Do."
to be continued..........
CONNECTED IN LOVE - PART-6
Abhi is trying his best to banish all thoughts from his mind and concentrate on the road ahead. The proximity of his wife sitting next to him, is not making things any easier for him. After two dreary months without her, he notices she is lookingeven more beautiful than before. He is overcome with a sudden urge to stop the car and pull her into his arms. Sensing his eyes on her, she turns sideways and gives him a cold glance.
'Why is she so angry with me?' he wonders. 'What could have upsetted her so much that she left me without any explanation. I wasn't even around or' he pauses 'was that the reason?'
After going through the worse in life, this reason seemed so petty and trivial for them. He is dying to know. Should he ask her? Dammit, if it weren't for her present condition, he would have grabbed her and demanded an explanation. Now, somehow, he has to keep his cool, he reminds himself.
Trying to wipe away the inner turmoil he was going through because of the cold distance between them, he reminisces on their married life after their family left.
Like the burst of spring season, life took a new turn bringing with it a world of thrills and excitement. Everything seemed so bright and colourful. Perhaps, it was their own happiness that was transcending to their perception of life. As each day passed by, they grew more and more happy and contented as the thought they belonged to each other began to sink deeply within them.
Unlike most newly married couples , Abhi could not spare that extra time for his new bride, but, nothing could mar Nikki's spirits. There was a new glow on her face and her eyes twinkled with happiness . She did not even mind his coming home late. She knew , eventually, he would come home to her. Inspite of the stress and burden of work, he tried not to let it effect the moments they shared together. He would go all out to make her feel on top of the world.
On the other hand, for Abhi, after a stressful day, going back home was such a delight. She would greet him warmly, at times smiling, at times grumbling and sulking because of his coming home late. Watching the different expressions on her face would bring a happy smile on his. When she lovingly caressed his face, Abhi could feel the stress, the tiredness draining out from him.
Joining back at Sanjeevani, it took some time for Nikki to realize that SHE was the other Dr. Modi in Sanjeevani .
Armaan and the gang would deliberately rag her, singing "Good Morniing Dr. Mrs. Modi," or "Yes Dr. Mrs. Modi,"
A blushing Nikki would run after Armaan with intention of spanking him.
"Behave like a married woman," he would chide her to escape her spanking. "Don't forget you are the Boss' wife now," he would tease. Conscious by his words, Nikki would innocently straighten herself. He would then burst out laughing, bringing colour into her cheeks.
After a late evening, two hour surgery help to Dr. Keerti, Nikki was checking with Sonali about Abhi's whereabouts.
" He did not tell me where he is going," Sonali tells her indifferently. "However, he did say he had dinner meeting"
Nikki thanks her coldly and walks away.
There was something about Sonali which annoyed Nikki. She would be on her best behavior when Abhi was around, but, when he was not, she would be cold and curt to Nikki.
Getting into the car , Nikki makes an irritated face.
"How annoying. This is the third late night for Abhi this week and its only Wednesday. I expected, atleast today, he would be home early. He did say he would try." Disappointment was written all over her face as she began to drive.
She enters the house and switches on the lights.
"The lights aren't even switched on. Looks like Pushpa bunked today," she grumbles, annoyed with the constant absence of her part time help.
She treads wearily into the kitchen.
"Abhi having a dinner meeting means he is not home for dinner and I am in no mood to eat." She sighs unhappily
Pouring herself a glass water, she drinks it. Then dejectedly she towards her room and mechanically switches the lights on.
"Ahhhh" she gasps as she finds a grinning Abhi sprawled on the bed.
"Welcome home wifey," he spreads out his arms towards her.
" Abhi what are you doing here?" her eyes brighten with joy as she goes near him and flops herself on the bed.
"I thought for a change, I'll be the one to do the welcoming." His eyes dance with mischief as he pulls her in his arms.
"Sonali said you had a dinner meeting ?"
"I do," he says kissing her lips "having dinner with you."
"You mean you taking me out for dinner?" Nikki is excited with the idea.
"Hmmn, not out," Abhi tells her rubbing his nose against hers. "We'll have it here."
"Oh Abhi," Nikki says wearily "I am in no mood to cook. You take me out for dinner. Don't think you are going to get away so easily. You've got to pay a price for keeping me waiting everyday."
Abhi gently turns her over on to the bed.
"I'll cook us a steaming HOT meal" his eyes were wickedly gleaming. "I have a vast menu planned for you.
"Really?" Nikki eyes him suspiciously "And what is it?"
Bending his head lower, he gently blows all over her face. Nikki opens and shuts her eyes dreamily in rhythm with his blows.
"First dish is Abhi-stirred emotions." he grins
Nikki laughs. "Abhi you are too much."
Then seductively he caresses her lips
"Hmmm Next is Saucy Lips."
"Abhi Shut up!" Nikki giggles, partly amused, partly drawn by desire as his lips threateningly move closer till they are placed on hers, exploring as they force a responsive opening up of her lips.
"Hmmmm Next is Hot and Spicy collar bone ," he whispers huskily as his lips hungrily attack the arena.
"Shut up Abhi!" Nikki calls out with feeble attempts to wriggle away from him. "Say nothing further."
"These are just the starting courses," looking up, he winks at her. " I've even planned the dessert."
"And what is that?" asks Nikki curiously, her cheeks flushed.
"Flambe Passion Fruit." he utters tongue in cheek.
Nikki laughs out aloud.
Lured by the attractiveness in her face and voice as she laughs, Abhi is consumed by passion and desire. He lowers his head and ravenously rains kisses all over her face and neck.
Deeply aroused and burning, Nikki digs her nail into his back as she succumbs to the flames of desire ignited by his kisses.
****************
Abhi, Nikki, Atul, Muskaan and Anjali throw a farewell party for Armaan and Riddhima at a pub. Since the couple are adored by everyone, almost all the staff of Sanjeevani, came to wish them. Everyone was having a great time.
Sonali kept interrupting Abhi and Nikki on pretext of work related issues which irked Nikki. Abhi did not give her interruptions any serious thought, but , Nikki was getting irritated by Sonali's presence near him.
The final straw came when Nikki was looking out for Abhi so that they could leave and she finds him laughing with Sonali. She begins to fume.
Mirth filled on his face, when Abhi lifts his head up , he spots Nikki and smiles at her. Nikki scowls at him and stomps out of the room.
A confused Abhi follows her outside. As she reaches the car, he grabs her by the shoulder and stops her.
"Nikki, wait, where are you going?"
"I want to go home," She tells him hotly.
"Okay, I'll come along too,"
"No need for that," Nikki retorts. " I can go on my own, You stay back. After all you have good company." Jealousy was largely looming in her eyes.
"Good company?" Abhi's eyebrows narrow together in puzzlement. "Who are you talking about?"
" Don't pretend you don't know," Nikki glares at him. "Your favourite Sonali, That Bi......"
"Nikki," Abhi yells. "how can you talk like that? I don't even pay any attention to her."
"But, she keeps looking at you and you allow her to do it."
"What do you expect me to do? Tell her not to look at me because my wife doesn't like it? How can I control if anyone looks at me Nikki. She is just a professional colleague to me and you do know it."
"That is why you were laughing ," Nikki tells him , twisting her face in irritation
Abhi rolls his eyes in exasperation.
"Oh God Nikki, stop behaving like a kid."
Nikki knew he was right. She was being childishly stubborn. Part of her knew Abhi was not to be blamed for it, but she just didn't like Sonali's presence near him.
'Yeah, yeah, all the fault is with me." Nikki shoots back "You find no fault with Sonali."
"I don't care about Sonali, Dammit," frustrated Abhi angrily shakes her shoulders.
"Leave me alone." Nikki tells him, trying to free herself from his grip "I want to go home."
"Okay fine have it your way," Abhi tells her, releasing her. He unlocks the car and seating himself, awaits for her to sit.
Piqued and annoyed, Nikki stands near the car refusing to go in.
Abhi ignores her and stares at the road ahead of him.
After sometime, seeing no invitation coming from him, a displeased Nikki opens the car door and slams it shut as she sits down.
Taking a deep breath Abhi calms himself.
He turns towards her and tells her softly.
"Look Nikki, try to understand. There is nothing between me and Sonali and there never can be. To me she is just a colleague. I only need her so that my office work is properly taken care of whilst I am busy with finding finance for the project. I have no time nor the inclination to even look at her otherwise. So don't unnecessarily read something into it, when there isn't anything."
Nikki is slowly beginning to understand what he was saying, but, irritation and annoyance still blurs her senses. Adamantly, she refuses to look at him.
Shaking his head in frustration, Abhi starts the car.
They drive home in silence.
The silence continues till they have changed into their night clothes and lay down on the bed.
Nervous to face each other, they turn to opposite sides.
Their thoughts wander off to each other wondering if the other has fallen asleep. Holding their own breath, they await for some sound from the other side of the bed..
Unable to bear the buzzing silence, Abhi gets up and walks out of the room.
He sits on the couch and switches on the television. After aimlessly surfing, he switches it off and pushing his head back, closes his eyes. Suddenly he feels Nikki's head on his chest while her hand circles him around the waist. A knowing smile erupts on his face.
"I am sorry," she mumbles weakly. Abhi's smile widens. He loves her change of moods.
"Are you properly sorted out about Sonali or her shadow is still hovering over you?" tongue in cheek, he deliberately taunts her.
"Okay, okay enough," Nikki tells him hotly, as she straightens up and looks at him. "just because you are right don't try to gloat over it. Even I am not completely wrong, Have you seen how Sonali looks at you? I just don't like it."
"Have you seen how many people eye you?" Abhi shoots back. "I don't like it either, but I know your eyes and love are only for me." he smiles confidently "Similarly, Why don't you see that my eyes and love are only for you. Why don't you realize only you have all the rights over me? No one else. Sonali is completely insignificant in my life. Why waste our precious time on her?"
Nikki shifts awkwardly. He can sense her uneasiness in accepting her mistake
"You are such a kid sometimes Nikki," he tells her shaking his head in amusement. "Wonder what will you do when we have our own kid. Will you continue to sulk and fight with me like this?
"Shut up," Nikki tells him indignantly.
"Grow Up You little Kid," he pulls her into his arms. Learn to stop being stubborn, before our kid arrives."
Abhi glances fondly at Nikki's stomach. He itches to touch it. "Hey Kiddo," he speaks in his mind." Will you help me get rid of your mother's stubbornness?" He smiles at the daunting task.
"Oooh" Nikki gasps.
"What happened?" Abhi asks worriedly.
With a deep sigh, Nikki says, "don't know, felt like a brief flutter inside. Its fine now."
Abhi smiles. Telepathy?
To be continued.
'Why is she so angry with me?' he wonders. 'What could have upsetted her so much that she left me without any explanation. I wasn't even around or' he pauses 'was that the reason?'
After going through the worse in life, this reason seemed so petty and trivial for them. He is dying to know. Should he ask her? Dammit, if it weren't for her present condition, he would have grabbed her and demanded an explanation. Now, somehow, he has to keep his cool, he reminds himself.
Trying to wipe away the inner turmoil he was going through because of the cold distance between them, he reminisces on their married life after their family left.
Like the burst of spring season, life took a new turn bringing with it a world of thrills and excitement. Everything seemed so bright and colourful. Perhaps, it was their own happiness that was transcending to their perception of life. As each day passed by, they grew more and more happy and contented as the thought they belonged to each other began to sink deeply within them.
Unlike most newly married couples , Abhi could not spare that extra time for his new bride, but, nothing could mar Nikki's spirits. There was a new glow on her face and her eyes twinkled with happiness . She did not even mind his coming home late. She knew , eventually, he would come home to her. Inspite of the stress and burden of work, he tried not to let it effect the moments they shared together. He would go all out to make her feel on top of the world.
On the other hand, for Abhi, after a stressful day, going back home was such a delight. She would greet him warmly, at times smiling, at times grumbling and sulking because of his coming home late. Watching the different expressions on her face would bring a happy smile on his. When she lovingly caressed his face, Abhi could feel the stress, the tiredness draining out from him.
Joining back at Sanjeevani, it took some time for Nikki to realize that SHE was the other Dr. Modi in Sanjeevani .
Armaan and the gang would deliberately rag her, singing "Good Morniing Dr. Mrs. Modi," or "Yes Dr. Mrs. Modi,"
A blushing Nikki would run after Armaan with intention of spanking him.
"Behave like a married woman," he would chide her to escape her spanking. "Don't forget you are the Boss' wife now," he would tease. Conscious by his words, Nikki would innocently straighten herself. He would then burst out laughing, bringing colour into her cheeks.
After a late evening, two hour surgery help to Dr. Keerti, Nikki was checking with Sonali about Abhi's whereabouts.
" He did not tell me where he is going," Sonali tells her indifferently. "However, he did say he had dinner meeting"
Nikki thanks her coldly and walks away.
There was something about Sonali which annoyed Nikki. She would be on her best behavior when Abhi was around, but, when he was not, she would be cold and curt to Nikki.
Getting into the car , Nikki makes an irritated face.
"How annoying. This is the third late night for Abhi this week and its only Wednesday. I expected, atleast today, he would be home early. He did say he would try." Disappointment was written all over her face as she began to drive.
She enters the house and switches on the lights.
"The lights aren't even switched on. Looks like Pushpa bunked today," she grumbles, annoyed with the constant absence of her part time help.
She treads wearily into the kitchen.
"Abhi having a dinner meeting means he is not home for dinner and I am in no mood to eat." She sighs unhappily
Pouring herself a glass water, she drinks it. Then dejectedly she towards her room and mechanically switches the lights on.
"Ahhhh" she gasps as she finds a grinning Abhi sprawled on the bed.
"Welcome home wifey," he spreads out his arms towards her.
" Abhi what are you doing here?" her eyes brighten with joy as she goes near him and flops herself on the bed.
"I thought for a change, I'll be the one to do the welcoming." His eyes dance with mischief as he pulls her in his arms.
"Sonali said you had a dinner meeting ?"
"I do," he says kissing her lips "having dinner with you."
"You mean you taking me out for dinner?" Nikki is excited with the idea.
"Hmmn, not out," Abhi tells her rubbing his nose against hers. "We'll have it here."
"Oh Abhi," Nikki says wearily "I am in no mood to cook. You take me out for dinner. Don't think you are going to get away so easily. You've got to pay a price for keeping me waiting everyday."
Abhi gently turns her over on to the bed.
"I'll cook us a steaming HOT meal" his eyes were wickedly gleaming. "I have a vast menu planned for you.
"Really?" Nikki eyes him suspiciously "And what is it?"
Bending his head lower, he gently blows all over her face. Nikki opens and shuts her eyes dreamily in rhythm with his blows.
"First dish is Abhi-stirred emotions." he grins
Nikki laughs. "Abhi you are too much."
Then seductively he caresses her lips
"Hmmm Next is Saucy Lips."
"Abhi Shut up!" Nikki giggles, partly amused, partly drawn by desire as his lips threateningly move closer till they are placed on hers, exploring as they force a responsive opening up of her lips.
"Hmmmm Next is Hot and Spicy collar bone ," he whispers huskily as his lips hungrily attack the arena.
"Shut up Abhi!" Nikki calls out with feeble attempts to wriggle away from him. "Say nothing further."
"These are just the starting courses," looking up, he winks at her. " I've even planned the dessert."
"And what is that?" asks Nikki curiously, her cheeks flushed.
"Flambe Passion Fruit." he utters tongue in cheek.
Nikki laughs out aloud.
Lured by the attractiveness in her face and voice as she laughs, Abhi is consumed by passion and desire. He lowers his head and ravenously rains kisses all over her face and neck.
Deeply aroused and burning, Nikki digs her nail into his back as she succumbs to the flames of desire ignited by his kisses.
****************
Abhi, Nikki, Atul, Muskaan and Anjali throw a farewell party for Armaan and Riddhima at a pub. Since the couple are adored by everyone, almost all the staff of Sanjeevani, came to wish them. Everyone was having a great time.
Sonali kept interrupting Abhi and Nikki on pretext of work related issues which irked Nikki. Abhi did not give her interruptions any serious thought, but , Nikki was getting irritated by Sonali's presence near him.
The final straw came when Nikki was looking out for Abhi so that they could leave and she finds him laughing with Sonali. She begins to fume.
Mirth filled on his face, when Abhi lifts his head up , he spots Nikki and smiles at her. Nikki scowls at him and stomps out of the room.
A confused Abhi follows her outside. As she reaches the car, he grabs her by the shoulder and stops her.
"Nikki, wait, where are you going?"
"I want to go home," She tells him hotly.
"Okay, I'll come along too,"
"No need for that," Nikki retorts. " I can go on my own, You stay back. After all you have good company." Jealousy was largely looming in her eyes.
"Good company?" Abhi's eyebrows narrow together in puzzlement. "Who are you talking about?"
" Don't pretend you don't know," Nikki glares at him. "Your favourite Sonali, That Bi......"
"Nikki," Abhi yells. "how can you talk like that? I don't even pay any attention to her."
"But, she keeps looking at you and you allow her to do it."
"What do you expect me to do? Tell her not to look at me because my wife doesn't like it? How can I control if anyone looks at me Nikki. She is just a professional colleague to me and you do know it."
"That is why you were laughing ," Nikki tells him , twisting her face in irritation
Abhi rolls his eyes in exasperation.
"Oh God Nikki, stop behaving like a kid."
Nikki knew he was right. She was being childishly stubborn. Part of her knew Abhi was not to be blamed for it, but she just didn't like Sonali's presence near him.
'Yeah, yeah, all the fault is with me." Nikki shoots back "You find no fault with Sonali."
"I don't care about Sonali, Dammit," frustrated Abhi angrily shakes her shoulders.
"Leave me alone." Nikki tells him, trying to free herself from his grip "I want to go home."
"Okay fine have it your way," Abhi tells her, releasing her. He unlocks the car and seating himself, awaits for her to sit.
Piqued and annoyed, Nikki stands near the car refusing to go in.
Abhi ignores her and stares at the road ahead of him.
After sometime, seeing no invitation coming from him, a displeased Nikki opens the car door and slams it shut as she sits down.
Taking a deep breath Abhi calms himself.
He turns towards her and tells her softly.
"Look Nikki, try to understand. There is nothing between me and Sonali and there never can be. To me she is just a colleague. I only need her so that my office work is properly taken care of whilst I am busy with finding finance for the project. I have no time nor the inclination to even look at her otherwise. So don't unnecessarily read something into it, when there isn't anything."
Nikki is slowly beginning to understand what he was saying, but, irritation and annoyance still blurs her senses. Adamantly, she refuses to look at him.
Shaking his head in frustration, Abhi starts the car.
They drive home in silence.
The silence continues till they have changed into their night clothes and lay down on the bed.
Nervous to face each other, they turn to opposite sides.
Their thoughts wander off to each other wondering if the other has fallen asleep. Holding their own breath, they await for some sound from the other side of the bed..
Unable to bear the buzzing silence, Abhi gets up and walks out of the room.
He sits on the couch and switches on the television. After aimlessly surfing, he switches it off and pushing his head back, closes his eyes. Suddenly he feels Nikki's head on his chest while her hand circles him around the waist. A knowing smile erupts on his face.
"I am sorry," she mumbles weakly. Abhi's smile widens. He loves her change of moods.
"Are you properly sorted out about Sonali or her shadow is still hovering over you?" tongue in cheek, he deliberately taunts her.
"Okay, okay enough," Nikki tells him hotly, as she straightens up and looks at him. "just because you are right don't try to gloat over it. Even I am not completely wrong, Have you seen how Sonali looks at you? I just don't like it."
"Have you seen how many people eye you?" Abhi shoots back. "I don't like it either, but I know your eyes and love are only for me." he smiles confidently "Similarly, Why don't you see that my eyes and love are only for you. Why don't you realize only you have all the rights over me? No one else. Sonali is completely insignificant in my life. Why waste our precious time on her?"
Nikki shifts awkwardly. He can sense her uneasiness in accepting her mistake
"You are such a kid sometimes Nikki," he tells her shaking his head in amusement. "Wonder what will you do when we have our own kid. Will you continue to sulk and fight with me like this?
"Shut up," Nikki tells him indignantly.
"Grow Up You little Kid," he pulls her into his arms. Learn to stop being stubborn, before our kid arrives."
Abhi glances fondly at Nikki's stomach. He itches to touch it. "Hey Kiddo," he speaks in his mind." Will you help me get rid of your mother's stubbornness?" He smiles at the daunting task.
"Oooh" Nikki gasps.
"What happened?" Abhi asks worriedly.
With a deep sigh, Nikki says, "don't know, felt like a brief flutter inside. Its fine now."
Abhi smiles. Telepathy?
To be continued.
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