Sameera watched absent minded as Natasha slammed Ali for the third time straight, as Samrat hooted and Disha clapped. Abhi stood in a corner and observed as usual, occasionally giving inputs. Ali looked up at her googly eyed, not even bothering to get up from the mat.
Sameera uncrossed her legs as she sat straight, opened her mouth to say something but then noticed Disha, whose smile slowly vanished. Filing it away for later, she kept her mouth shut.
“Get up, idiot.” Samrat gave a hand to Ali to finally stood up, who smiled lazily. Natasha rolled her eyes at his expression, nodded to Abhi as she drank water, wiping off sweat with a small towel.
“Disha, Samrat.” The buzz stopped as Abhi called out, “You two next. Disha, remember the things I said and implement them. Use the things you feel is your weakness and turn them into your strength.”
The two started a round of self defense and Sameera watched the other woman’s move with keen eyes. Disha was good- quick reflex and using her less height to get away. Ali cheered for the two as Natasha kept drinking water, observing the two as well. Often Sameera’s eyes will meet Abhi and either of the two will look away. If the former lady noticed it, they did not comment on the awkward tension between the two.
After that day’s strange outburst, Abhi never spoke to her directly or looked in her eyes. Sameera too did not go after him, a part of her has mostly made up her mind that she is probably not going to be in the team for too long. But she will not give up without a fight, hence she was pushing herself hard- more exercise, more stamina, more practice of self defence. Once or twice Khadoos Rawte had seen her after dark, sneered and then left. She feared for a while the other man will complaint as nobody was supposed to be out after time is over, but nobody said anything to her.
“Ok, that’s enough.” Sameera blinked as Abhi’s voice rang, the other two halting their movements, “Good job, you two.”
“Who won?” Ali perked up.
“Me, of course.” Samrat was smug. Abhi shook his head as he clapped on the former’s shoulder.
“Sorry to disappoint you, but it was a tie.” The men groaned and Samrat whispered to Disha, ‘I will get you next time’, to which she narrowed eyes, mirth lurking in her eyes as she accepted the challenge. Abhi shook his head at their antics and smiled for a second, then sobered up.
“Next- Sameera, Natasha. I hope you are not too tired.”
Natasha gave the other woman a look before answering, “Never.” Getting up gracefully from the ground, she stretched and then walked ahead, standing in the middle of the mat and waiting on her opponent. Everyone looked at each other, stunned at the pair up. Sameera could not hold herself up physically against anyone, and Natasha was the strongest of them all. They all knew where this was going.
Samrat spoke up, “Abhi.” But the man knew what he was doing. He gave a look of ‘Don’t question this’ and then looked at Sameera. She, to her credit, did not look scared outwardly but inside she was freaking out. She stood up with shaky legs and plastered a smile to her friends, standing in front of the other woman. The moment Abhi whistled, Natasha had her flat on her back as air escaped her lungs in a whoosh.
That was the moment she truly felt sad and angry- Sad that Abhi will intentionally pair her up with Natasha, who was no friend to them and will never hold back. Angry, that he will humiliate her like this knowing her insecurities. She wondered if she had offended him that much the other day. But it was just a question, was not it? Maybe she should have kept quiet.
Her eyes filled with angry tears but she quickly brushed them away, giving a last look at ‘Sir’ before facing Natasha, who was gloating at the easy first round and looked terrifying, hungry for more. Fine, if this was how it’s going to be- Sameera tried to remember each things she noticed in Disha’s movement and her few nights spending in this same gym, straightened her shoulder and took her position.
She fought, oh that she did. Harder than she never remembered in her life. The rounds seemed to go on and on- sure, Natasha won, but she did not make it easy for her. Her perfectly tied up ponytail looked messier with each rounds as the two panted, the audience sat stunned, observing, breathless to see the ultimate winner. Abhi kept going on for more rounds, face hard and eyes blank.
In a particularly tricky moment, Natasha had her arms pulled behind as Sameera struggled. The team mates cheered and shouted how to get away from the grip, the purpose of the class forgotten- this was war now. The more she struggled the painful it got, and after a point even Samrat yelled for her to let it go. Disha screamed at Natasha to leave, but she did not, of course.
“Let go or this will seriously hurt.” Natasha whispered to her, but getting no response from her glanced at Abhi. He stood straight, but said or signaled nothing. With a growl, she tried to keep the struggling woman under her in one place before she pulled a muscle.
“Sameera.” She warned, but lost it when the other woman tried to get away using her legs. With a particular pull that left Sameera screaming in pain, she let go, stunned as others rushed. Panicked, Natasha turned to Abhi who have finally snapped out of whatever zombie state he had, ran towards the writhing woman and started examining her upper arm, shouting for medic. Sameera sat up with shaky breath, face full of sweat and tears as others fussed over her, trying to move her frame away from him, but he kept her in one place, giving a hard stare which she avoided till she was in the room.
Natasha was pissed at the man who was their Boss, but she knew this was no time for her anger. As the medic sprayed pain reliever over Sameera’s arm as others looked on concerned, she opened her mouth to apologize, “Sameera . . . “
“Don’t worry about it.” The other replied in a quiet voice, “You warned.” As if that makes it any better. The others helped her to get on feet and the four of them leave, and Natasha whirled around to face Abhi.
“The fu ck, Abhi?” He glared at her word, “You did not stop us.”
“This is not the first time she was hurt, and won’t be the last time.” He turned to get his bag but Natasha was having none of this.
“You know what I mean.” She stood in front of him, crossing arms, “Whatever happened between you two, fix it. She is my team mate and you are my Boss, and this team needs both. Communication, remember?” With that she left, slamming the gym door shut on her way out.
“What exactly is wrong with Ice queen?” Samrat was fuming as the foursome sat inside the girl’s room, the curfew nearing, “She saw Sam was hurting and she did not stop. Did winning mean everything for her?”
“Sam is her team mate.” Disha was disappointed as she looked at Sam massaging her upper arm, “And this was a practice session.”
“She told to give up.” Ali defended her, voice sounding pathetic to his own voice. Samrat opened his mouth to say something but Sameera spoke up.
“You are right, Ali.” She turned to the disappointed and outraged faces of the other two, “I appreciate how protective you are for me, but he is right. Natasha did tell me to stop struggling. I could have given up. I did not, and we should not expect the same from her. Anyways,” She looked down, “it doesn’t hurt too bad.”
“You sure?” Samrat asked, concerned, “We have the jungle mission next week.”
She tried to smile, “Yes. I promise.” The bell rang outside, indicating the curfew time. The boys bade quick goodbyes to the girls and left and Disha moved to washroom, giving the other woman concerned looks all the while.
Something was startlingly clear to Sameera- she was being tested. And the Jungle mission likely to be the litmus test, even Veer sir is going to be there. If she did not succeed, he will fire her right there and she would have to leave.
She moved her arm circular and anti circular motion, ignoring the pain. She needed to work hard, this pain was nothing. Once her position in the team was secure, she can rest easily.
The room was dark and Disha’s soft snores filled the atmosphere, but Sameera sat on the bed, mind full of thoughts. There will be no sleep for her tonight.
+++++++++++++++++++++++
As the day of Jungle mission neared, there was no rest for the HAWKS team. Veer sir visited them every now and then, observing their progress and he spoke with Abhi. After almost 5 days of continuous training and studying the mission plan, the boys were bored, hence all of them, sans Natasha, decided to visit the Game room. The moment they entered, the boys rushed towards the Pool table, greeted other officers already inside and started to play.
“See.” Disha shook her head and dragged a seat, content to sit in the corner and watch. Sameera stood behind her, massaging her arm- the pain has subsided quite a bit, but not completely. The girls watched the men playing and cheered for them ocsassionally, as the spoke to each other.
“I was thinking to take half days off tomorrow, but with the Farewell party, there won’t be any.” Disha was telling. The other woman frowned.
“Where are you going?”
“To the bank. Papa called, he needs urgent money.”
Sameera thought about not asking further, but curiosity overtook her. Almost half a year with the team mates but she did not know much about Disha apart from her family and education. “May I ask you something?”
“Sure.” She smiled brightly, her feet dangling from the stool.
“You are so far away, and with your Dad’s illness, you must have thought to stay closer. Why chose HAWKS?”
Disha looked down, the smile dampening, “Because money is important. With money, I can afford a nurse to take care of him, provide medicines.” She sighed, “You guys are here for the patriotism. I am here for that, and for the salary. The perks outweigh the distance from my family.”
Sameera gave a tight lipped smile and squeeze her shoulder, and Disha cupped her hand, silently accepting the support. The small moment between the two when a whistle startled them.
“Ali!” Disha chided, as the men grinned at them. Sameera shook her head at his antics.
“You girls are boring. Always chit chatting.” He complained. Behind him Samrat smirked and put 2 balls in a hole at once, other men clapping for him.
“That’s not true.” Disha replied, “Anyways, I don’t know how to play.”
“I can teach you. It’s so simple.” He took a step towards him but she shook her head. “Aye! It will be fun.”
“No, thank you. I like beach volley better.”
Samrat casually walked towards them and kept an arm over Ali’s shoulder, “Ok, Disha is out. Sam? Wanna play?” At Ali’s surprised raise of eyebrows he confirmed, “She can play.”
“He taught me.” Sameera replied, and Samrat made a show of giving blessing to her by raising his left palm. She bowed her head, accepting.
“Then what, let’s have a match.” Disha suggested. The four of them looked at each other, grinning. At last Sameera untied her pony, ran fingers through her hair as she assessed the balls on the table. Samrat handed over his stick to her, and she bowed, ready to aim.
“Let’s bet.” Samrat smiled mischievously as the other woman looked up, “You put two balls at once, you win. You can’t, I get to dance with you tomorrow at Farewell party.”
“Oh hello,” Ali sounded indignant, “what kind of bet is this? She wins and gets nothing?”
“The bet is for his benefit.” Sam replied, and smirked at her best friend, “You will lose.”
“We will see.” He moved away from her vision, giving her a wide berth. Sobering up, she fixed her target and tightened her grip on the stick, taking deep breath. She and Samrat were always neck to neck in pool, but the added advantage which fueled her was the dislike for dancing. The brat knew it and still made it anyway.
Just when she was about to take a shot her eyes fell on the person standing outside the play room- Abhi. He had his usual blank expression but his eyes seemed to burn. For a moment Sam wondered how long he was standing there, or why he would not come in. But before she could duel on it, the man had moved.
So did the balls, unknown to herself. As she was distracted, the aim was off, and the balls went to two different directions. Samrat cheered as Ali and Disha let out groan of disappointment. Sam blinked at the commotion, surprised at her poor performance, but just like that day in corridor all she could think about Abhi’s departure, and not the impending threat of dance.
She had no liking for this man, and yet she thought of him often.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The day before the Jungle mission, the Airbase decorated itself for the farewell of a beloved Senior and decorated Officer, Colonel Chauhan. After a glorious 30 years spent in the force which he joined when he was in his teens, finally he was going to bid adeau. It was bittersweet- people have grown to be used to his kindness and smile that could lift up spirits, but that’s how life is supposed to be- old ones leave, new people enters.
The HAWKS made a dashing entry dressed in impeccable dress and matching attitude. Being the pet project of Veer sir, the entire base envied and admired the team, people would stare, whisper among themselves and make way for them as they moved. They got attention everywhere they moved, in a team or individually, hence Chauhan sir also did. There were wishes for future, talks about retirement life and photoshoot. And speeches- from Minister of Defence, ex colleagues and juniors of Sir, even Veer sir gave a speech.
“When will the speeches end?” Ali muttered to himself, beside him Samrat kept glancing at his watch but snorted anyways. Natasha rolled her eyes as usual and Disha made a shush noise. The man made a face, then perked up once applause started as Veer sir ended his speech. The room filled with the sound with music as young people joined the dance floor.
“Ehm, Nat . . . “ Before he could ask, Natasha had sauntered away, and with various looks of amusement and incredulity the team mates noticed her going up towards Abhi, who had planted himself near the drinks section. There was no alcohol, of course, hence he was holding a glass of soda. His eyes raised at whatever she said, but then he kept the drink on the counter, took the other woman’s hand and joined the dance floor.
“What the.” Samrat muttered as Ali looked crestfallen, “You believe this shit?” He asked to Sameera, stumped at the scene in front of him.
Disha patted Ali’s arm sympathetically, “It’s okay. You are not her type anyway.” To which Sameera laughed, the former joining. Ali scowled at the two.
“What friendship, really.”
“I agree with her.” Samrat said, “Clearly she has eyes fixed on someone else. Now I understand those after session talks.”
“Samrat.” Sameera’s tone was disapproving. There was gossip, and then there was maligning character. He frowned.
“What?”
“Don’t.”
“But. . . “ At her shake of head he stopped, lips pressed thin in disapproval. An awkward silence fell as Disha and Ali shared looks, the latter clearing his throat.
“So what if she has gone to Abhi, I can go with someone else too.” He declared, giving a look at the two ladies, “Now I need to decide which one of you, the lucky one, can join me on the journey towards dance floor.”
“Oh, thank you for the offer.” Sameera teased, “I am humbled, truly, but I am no dancer.” At his pout she signaled to the other woman. Disha noticed it, shook her head vigorously but all protests were cut short when Ali took her arm and semi dragged her towards the floor. Seeing the panicked and embarrassed expression on her face, Samrat laughed, the earlier bad mood forgotten. He then turned to her.
“Oh no no, don’t look at me.” She warned, backing away from him.
“Come on, don’t make look for any other pretty ladies in the room.” He replied, “Anyways, this party is filled with old men.”
“Gee, thanks.”
He grinned widely and offered his hand. She sighed, finally giving up.
“You won the bet anyway.”
“For that, I would be forever indebted.”
Samrat was not a bad dancer really- he moved as per the music, made the partner comfortable, cracked jokes and made her laugh. The problem was all Sam- scared if she will step on his shoes, which she did many times in past. Till this date Samrat don’t let her live down the memory when they danced during College Farewell party and she had stepped on his feet so hard his toenails turned blue. After a lot of home made medicine courtesy of her mom and apologizes later, the nails survived.
His eyes fell on a pretty woman officer Sam had seen in passing and she rolled eyes, shaking her head in mirth. Sensing her gaze, Samrat grinned at her, silently asking for permission. She loosened her grip on him.
“Thanks.” He winked, but unlike a normal man who would have let her leave the floor, he spun her hard. Unbalanced, she was about to topple when someone grabbed her and she collided with something strong.
“God,” She breathed, then looked up, pushing her short hair out of eyes, “Than . . .” But the words died down as it was Abhi who had saved her, his gaze burning through her. Blinking, she looked away, before carefully standing. He did not leave his hold until she was standing properly .
An awkward silence fell over them which even the music could not diminish. Several officers and seniors, enjoying themselves, nodded at them to which they nodded back. Sameera was about to flee when Abhi extended his hand. Surprised, she could only stare at him dumbfounded.
A moron behind her literally pushed her in his arms as they collided again, Sameera embarrassed and slightly angry at this scenerio. When she looked up, Abhi was glaring to whoever it was behind her, but all thoughts flee when he started to sway with the music, taking her along as he held her carefully. Her hands automatically went around his neck, body fitting to accommodate him as she looked up at him. He surprised her again by looking down, their eyes engaged in a silent staring contest with no heat in them.
Sameera tried to read this man- not the Heroic version of his capture and escape, but the man’s nature. He was standoffish, obsessively focused on work, at the same time smiled at Ali or Samrat’s jokes. He was unforgiving about performance yet tend to her when she was hurt. He was always alone, always observing, and Sam did not remember if there was ever a time he had smiled. She thought and thought, then she thought to herself why she even bothered- he paired her up with Natasha because she was weak and she had questioned him, and he probably wanted her out as soon as possible. He might not look like it, but he might be even worse than Rawte, with whom you knew what you were dealing with.
Suddenly irritated with herself, Sam abruptly stopped moving, gave a curt bow to Abhi who stood dumbfounded at her sudden mood, and ran outside. Samrat was nowhere to be found and she looked here and there, contemplating to leave- she had enough of this farewell party. Once she was out in the hallway she heard Abhi calling out her name- rather, Surname. For all his insistence to call him Abhi, and he can’t do the same, she thought and huffed. She might actually give an earful to Samrat once they return.
“Sameera!” Abhi yelled again, and Sameera had to stop because people were starting to stare. This man was impossible, she sighed to herself, and turn towards him. Why would he even come after her, and then she stopped thinking- his mind, he knows better.
“I was calling you.” He controlled his tone so that he was not yelling at her like he did the last time and she was thankful,, “Looking for someone?”
“Samrat.” She answered curtly, “Thank you for the dance. I shall leave.”
“I . . . “ Just as she was about to move he spoke, “I wanted to talk. About the other night in gym.” To his credit, his voice went softer and if possible, a tad bit apologetic, but Sam had enough of tonight. She turned to him, ready to blast him.
“Talk about what? Pairing me opposite Natasha? Letting the rounds go until I was hurt?” She gave a disbelieving laugh, “Would you have even stopped if I was not hurt?”
His eyes fell on her arm which she had started to rub unconsciously, “I am not the monster you think I am.” Her anger deflated at that, “I just wanted to apologize. I should have stopped.”
She was surprised at his openness, much less at the apology. His face had some expression for the first time in forever- he looked earnest, sincere, wanted her to know he was serious about this. She did not know why, but her earlier anger vanished almost immediately- but then, she never kept any grudge.
“Can you answer me something, please?” She inquired.
“Anything.”
“Why you paired me up with her anyway? You knew I would fail.”
Abhi answered almost immediately, “To know how far you can go. How far you can handle it.” Then looked down, “You had exceeded my expectations, but I should not have pushed it that far.”
“So that was a test?” Her gut feeling was content at his nod of reply. “And I passed?” She tried, but a small smile escaped her. Adding to her disbelieve, Abhi seemed to mirror it with his own.
“Exceed expectation.”
“That’s Harry Potter!” She was embarrassingly loud and people around them stared as Abhi moved back a little, jumping at her tone. She gave him a sheepish smile as he rolled eyes, suddenly looking bashful.
“Everyone knows that.”
“Well, certainly did not expect a living Hero to know.” Her reply was supposed to be teasing, but Abhi’s face seemed to falter. She frowned, thinking where she went wrong when Abhi straightened up, looked at his watch and fixed her with a look. Gone whoever was talking to her in last few minutes, this was the Boss she knew.
“5am tomorrow at the ground. No lateness.” With that order, he marched off. Sameera kept staring until he crossed the hallway and vanished inside the party room, feeling a weight has been lifted. She was thankful for him to have this talk- from tomorrow there will be a new beginning. The knowledge that her Leader thinks she is still worth it made her ecstatic.
Ali and Disha came out of party room to find Sam grinning like a idiot, and moved towards her.
The Jungle mission was hard. 2 days of maneuvering through a jungle with only a map in hand which was filled with riddles and codes. There were also threat of terrorists (Ali was confident they were fake, Samrat was not) and animals alike. The team reached the point from where they needed to move on their feet after a racing game between Samrat and Abhi, hid the jeeps with branches and bushes, and started their journey.
“Oh, and here is your food.” Abhi handed over small tiffin boxes to the team mates and Ali immediately jiggled it near his ears.
“2 days of food in here?” He made a face. As usual everyone laughed at him.
“Ali, you were not expecting Biriyani, were you?” Natasha snarked, but as usual it had no effect as the former stared at her dreamily.
“How do you know I love Biriyani?” Samrat pinched him to keep quiet and he flinched, glaring at him.
“What’s there inside anyway?” Samrat asked, and Abhi shrugged in response.
“Veer sir gave. I also have no idea.” He turned to the rest of them, “Anyways guys, let’s move. We have a long journey ahead. And remember,” He added, “One for all, All for one.”
The trails were harsh and unforgiving, and several times Sameera were left far behind until Samrat waited for her and nearly dragged her. But whatever the challenges were, Sam had only one mantra in head- this was the test. If she conquer this, her position will be secured in this team, just like Samrat Ali Disha and Natasha’s. Focusing on task was hard though - the unbearable heat of summer, trying to keep an eye on impending danger, her own physical weakness, coupled with Natasha’s not so subtle taunts. The more she tried to keep calm, the snarkier the comments went.
“Ice queen did not have her beauty sleep it seems.” Samrat whispered to her as he held her hand tightly, the duo moving, “I can’t wait for the night when she will finally shut up.” At Sam’s look he clarified, “In her sleep. I hope she don’t speak in her sleep.”
The comment made her laugh at others turned to look at them. Her eyes met Abhi, who had once again went back to his standoffish, stern avatar. She did not mind- the mission was important and he was the leader. He turned without giving any expression and everyone followed, and Samrat winked at her.
The night fell on them quickly and they found a place which looked safer. The team gathered branches and tea leaves for fire and planned for the next day- by evening they needed to reach the campsite. Everyone sat around the fire as Abhi showed the map, pointing at the direction.
“And this sign right here, it looks like . . . “ They were working on to find out what signs are indicating what when Ali’s stomach growled. He gave an embarrassed smile as everyone laughed, even Abhi gave a twitch of smile as he folded the map and put it in his backpack. The map was top priority, without it they will be lost.
“Let’s open the dinner then.” He spoke, and everyone turned to open their boxes, only to let out various degrees of outcry and curses. Sam’s face paled at the green chillies- she had allergy from them. Only Samrat knew, and he turned to her immediately in concern.
Ali whined, “What is this yaar, Abhi?” Then looked on in disbelieve as the other man started to eat without any protest. Everyone stared at him, until he noticed and spoke out, “What?”
“Is it not hot?” Natasha asked.
“It is. Very much.” Abhi did not look like he was effected at all, “I am used to it.”
“What does that even mean?” Disha whispered to Sam, “He eats chillies instead of rice?”
“How you can even eat it, Abhi?” Samrat was surprised. The other man stopped, his irises reflecting the burning fire and face impassive.
“This is not the worst thing I ever had.” His voice sounded like it was coming from afar. The group looked at each other, then proceeded to quietly follow the Leader’s footsteps- except Sameera. She knew if she had this, she will fall sick. Better a hungry stomach than getting sick. Samrat handed her over his portion of water but she shook head- he was too generous. He needed the water too.
The team went to sleep at various stages in night until only Abhi and Sameera remained. Her empty stomach did not let her sleep hence she tried to be distracted, observing Abhi. He was a picture of stillness near the fire, hunched over the map as he made marks with a pencil and looked thoughtful. This was his test too, Samrat had told her this was the first time he was leading a team, that too such a prestigious one. She had this deep faith in him, despite everything, that he will be the best leader anyone in the base had ever seen. She did not know where that came from, but she had a strong gut feeling.
A rustle behind him jolted her back to reality and she froze- a snake had sneaked up behind him and was dangerously close. In the darkness she did not know if it was big or small, or poisonous, hence decided to move immediately. Without making any sound she got up, careful not to make too sound on the dry leaves. Abhi looked up in surprise, about to open his mouth but she signaled, finger on her lips. She moved near him, and just as the snake was about to strike held its tail, then its body. Walking a bit far from the bonfire, she hunched down and let the snake go. The more distance it had, the slower her heartbeat went.
When she turned, Abhi was observing her curiously, “You were not afraid.”
“It was an animal. Usually they are afraid of us.” Her uncle always told her that. Abhi nodded slowly at her answer.
“Thanks.”
“One for all, all for one, remember?” She smiled. She was about to move when she felt a sharp pain in her stomach and stumbled, and he caught her immediately. On a cue, her stomach growled. She closed her eyes in embarrassment- if she knew there were chillies for the food, she would have had some fruits in the morning.
Abhi gave her a look of disapproval, “We have another 24 hours of journey. Eat whatever you get.”
She nodded in agreement, “Maybe I will find some fruit.”
“The fruits are poisonous in this terrain.” He snapped, “Look, you won’t be getting any five star food in here. Eat the chillies.”
It’s comment like this make her remember he can be so rude and brash. She cursed herself for melting yesterday- he apologized because he was wrong. His original face is exactly this, belittling and making her feel worthless.
“I know, Abhi.” She moved away from his hold and spoke coolly, “I knew the risks before joining. I know.” She moved away further and was satisfied to see some of his irritated look leaving, “I can manage.”
“You would rather be hungry?” He asked in disbelieve. For a moment she thought to inform him about her allergy, but decided against it. He did not ask- it was childish, but she did not want to tell him something when he had already made an opinion.
“Goodnight Abhi.” She whispered, and walked towards her place without a backward glance.
The next day of their mission was full of surprises. Halfway through the journey they were attacked by bunch of men with weapons and there was fight. They had fled, not before stealing the map and injuring Disha so much that she could not walk without a wince. Whatever limited resources they had for medicines, it did not work- the poor girl had pulled a muscle.
“Disha, you can quit now.” At her vehement shaking of head Abhi spoke urgently, “It will have no impact on your score card, I promise. This is an injury.”
“No, I will finish.” She was stubborn, and amidst Natasha’s complaints and others trying to convince her, Sam knew why. Disha needed this job. She could not take any chance.
”Dammit!” Natasha shouted, and then looked at Abhi, “She will slow us all down, Abhi! You decide.”
“Decision is already made.” Sam replied and matched the other woman’s glare with a fixed look, “Disha said she wants to continue, then she will.” The woman beamed at her as Natasha huffed.
Ali looked at the three women before getting up, “I agree with Sam.” Then took Disha’s hand, made her stand, and to everyone’s surprise put her on his back like a piggyback ride. Disha protested, but he insisted he can manage. Once it was settled, he started moving, others following suit. Disha looked both thankful and proud at his gesture.
Since they had no map now, they had to follow the uneven trials, the direction of sun and whatever Abhi and the rest remembered from the map. It was almost 3pm, and by 7pm they needed to reach the base. The team sped up, except for Sameera. In the early morning when she could not stand the hunger she ate majority of chillies and with passing moment she felt weak, everything looked blurry and she was faltering even when Samrat was holding her. She could see others moving away and they two stuck behind, and realized because of her Samrat might not reach the camp site.
“Hey, Samrat?” She whispered, “Let’s sit. Under that tree.” She winced as she sat, he almost immediately handing her over the remaining water of his bottle. She gave a wobbly smile in return as she drank, then steeled herself.
“Samrat, you need to move. Look, they are so far ahead.” He shook his head vehemently.
“We are going together.”
“Samrat, please. We both know at this rate it will be impossible to reach camp in time. Listen to me, hey.” She held his shoulder, “You move, I will follow. In case I don’t reach in time, come find me. Okay?” There was much protest but finally she won. With a last look full of anguish, Samrat started moving away.
And suddenly she was alone, for the first time in forever. Physically, she knew she was in no condition to move, and maybe that was better in case Samrat does come back with help. She curled on the ground in pain, moaning, tears streaming down face- wondering if this was how she was going to die. Food allergy, how pathetic. She remembered how excited her mom was for HAWKS, how proud she was whenever she would see her in uniform, how her Uncle took so many pics when she had left for training. She remembered her home, the small one storied yellow and blue house, the empty ground behind, and how since childhood she would run out whenever she could hear a flight moving and jumped in air, arms outstretched, as if to touch the beast.
Soon the sun set and darkness prevailed, and her eyes shut. This was the end then, she thought and whimpered.
Goodbye Ma.
Sorry.
I love you.
Back in the campsite, Veer sir impatiently checked his watch as officers stood around him, vigilant as always. Even Trainer Rawte was there, his face twisted as usual as if he had smelt something foul. He looked ahead from where his HAWKS team was supposed to reach, then sighed and turned to Rawte, and at the exact same moment the members started to rush in. There were general rush as Ali put Disha down gently and Abhi yelled for medic, and Veer sir checked his watch- 10 mins before time. Perfect.
“Good job.” He beamed as Abhi looked down, others standing straight in front of the senior, then looked around, “Two people are missing. Samrat? Sameera?”
It’s almost as if nobody had noticed them gone. Abhi looked around, then turned to Natasha who answered, “I heard them following. They will be here soon.” She gave a look at Abhi, who looked suspicious. There were several times he did look behind, but each time Natasha assured him Samrat and Sameera were right behind of them. He looked at his watch- it was almost time and the duo were nowhere to be seen.
“Sir, I . . .” He opened his mouth to speak, and as if on cue Samrat entered, running. The former’s tension eased a bit but his eyes kept looking for the lone female yet to join them.
“In time, Shergil.” Rawte grunted, but like Abhi he had also noticed Sameera was missing, “Where is the last one? Shekhawat?”
Samrat took several mouthful of deep breath before turning to Abhi, “She is sick, Abhi. We need to bring her back.” At others look of alarm he continued, “It were those damn chillies. She is allergic to them, but she ate them anyway.”
”She lost the mission.” Trainer Rawte declared and Samrat glared at him murderously, “The time is up.”
“Sir, with due respect . . .” Samrat’s tone was rude, uncaring of etiquetts in the face of his best friend’s life, when Veer sir spoke up, effectively stopping him.
“We will bring her back.” He motioned to his guards to moved towards the jungle, flash light and radios in hand. Disha noticed with curiosity that one of the men were the same who attacked them in jungle, and tugged at Ali’s pant to signal the same. He gave a look which said, ‘See? I was right.’, but this was not the time for levity.
“I will go too.” Samrat was ready to move but Abhi stopped him with a hand on his shoulder.
“You take rest. I will go.” At his protest he said in a firm tone that had no room for argument, “I will bring her back. I promise. Now please take rest.” With a last look at his team and a nod to Veer sir, he ran back with other officers.
It was nearly midnight but the team was unable to find the lady officer. Abhi was nearing the end of his patience- the physical strain of past two days, at the same time the mental strain. He should not have mocked her regarding the food, should have looked harder for alternate resource for her. Should have taken her seriously, asked her why she did not want to eat them. He was always going wrong with her, and he had no idea why so. Maybe just like his Mother, he was treating her with unkindness when there were no reason too. And now, because of his stupidity she was sick- he did not want to think the worst.
Sameera heard as if someone was calling her name and blinked her eyes. It was dark and she was curled up in the same position from hours, her breath coming out as wheezes, not in a continued manner. With great struggle she sat up, holding her stomach and strained her ears- it was not hallucination, someone was indeed calling her name. It has to be Samrat, she thought and smiled a little. With great strength she did not know she possessed till now, she took a few steps, stumbling a few times but holding herself at the last moment. She cleared throat a few times before replying to the voice, but doubted her feeble voice would reach Samrat. But after a while the voice stopped, and with each moment of silence her heart sank, feeling tears pooling in her eyes- maybe it was all a dream. Nobody is coming, and not that she can fault them. Seeing the sky overhead, it was nearly midnight. Maybe the team will come tomorrow.
Just as she was about to turn she heard footsteps near her, rustling the dry leaves in its wake. She looked back, and waited with bated breath as a shadow unmistakably a man, dressed in camouflage stood in front of her, breathing deeply as if he had ran a mile. Her knees went weak with relief, and she moved ahead, collapsing in his arms as he put his around her tightly.
“You came, Samrat.” She whispered, and drifted into unconsciousness once again.
Sameera woke up late in the night, finding herself lying in a bed with Disha snoring softly in a nearby bed. A dim light swayed inside the makeshift tent, allowing her to see their bags and other items inside. With a wince she got up, clumsy hand reaching for a bottle of water when it clanked with the desk, making Disha jump in her sleep, her eyes shot open.
“Sameera!” She exclaimed, then rushed to her forgetting her wounded leg, hugging her warmly for a moment before letting go, “When did you wake up? How are you feeling? Do you need something?”
Sam huffed a laugh, the girls holding hands, “Careful about your leg.” Disha made a face at her deflection, “I am fine. I just needed water.” The other woman nodded and passed her the bottle, Sameera taking careful sips from it, sighing at the relief that her perched throat was satisfied now.
A guard outside asked permission before entering, saluting the girls and handing over a small package to Sameera, “Order from senior. Parcel.”
“My stomach is still not good.” Sam denied, but the guard said it was a ‘special delivery’ from Abhi. Surprised, she turned to Disha who looked as if she knew. Once the guard left, Sam opened the parcel to find warm soup in a bowl.
“It’s veg. I informed him.” Disha moved carefully to her bed and rested her leg on a pillow, “He looked so worried. Yesterday he stood there the entire time doctor checked you and ordered the guards for soup, as the doctor said when you wake up you will need something light. He blamed himself constantly, telling he should have noticed that you were not following us.”
Sam was surprised at her words, “It’s been a day already?” At the others nod she blinked in disbelieve, “He should not have. He did not know about my allergy, and honestly it was my mistake to eat those. I should have informed him as well.” She grimaced, “For my stupidity you guys were worried. I am sorry about it.”
“Don’t be silly.” The other woman brushed aside with a wave of hand, “He also shut down Rawte when he said you were out because you were not on time. Abhi looks strict, but he sticks by his team. I appreciate it.”
“So I need to thank two of them in the morning.” At Disha’s frown she clarified, “Abhi and Samrat. It was so nice of him to go back in the jungle for me.”
“Samrat?” Disha frowned, “No, Sam. Samrat did not go back in the jungle. He wanted to, but Abhi volunteered. He told him to rest and he went with others. Why you thought it was Samrat?”
“I just . . . “ She remembered her stumbling into the arms of a man and him holding her tightly, and assumed it was Samrat. In the darkness she did not see his face- it was Abhi? That thought made her smile. “Now I am embarrassed and also thankful to him. It will be a weird apology and gratitude speech.”
Disha laughed, and the two women spoke for a while before she went for sleep. Sam finished her soup, and dozed off to a nap as well, waking up to sunray pouring inside the tent. It was eerily quiet around them, so she was extra careful to get down, put a shawl around her and went out. The cold weather made her shiver as she rubbed her hands together, smiling at the greenery, the sun, and the mist. Just thankful to be alive.
Then she noticed Abhi standing a bit far, his tall figure straight as he looked ahead. His blue sweater and camouflaged pants almost blended him with the scenery. Taking a few deep breath to calm herself, Sam prepared her speech as she walked towards him.
“Hi.” She whispered, and he turned quickly, surprised and relieved at once as his eyes went over her, then his eyes went slightly guarded.
“Good morning.” He whispered back, his voice deep, “How are you feeling?”
“Much better, thank you.” She looked down, pushing her hair behind ears in nervousness, “The soup was amazing.” Then smacked herself mentally- soup, really? Just apologize and move on.
“Um, Abhi?” He nodded, “Thank you, for rescuing me the other night. Disha told me. I am indebted, truly.” He shook his head vigorously at her words.
“No, there is no need for thank you. In fact,” He paused, sounding apologetic as he looked at her intently, “I am sorry. I should have known about your allergy. Or at least, should have asked you. There was no need for taunt. I was way out of line back there.” His voice turned low until it was barely a whisper, “I seem to always hurt you.”
“I was being stupid too.” She said, trying to shift a part of the blame to herself as she was not saint as well, “I was offended and was blind in ego. Should have thought about my health before doing something stupid.” She shook her head, relieved to get rid of her thoughts, “Let’s put it all past us, ok?”
He nodded, smiling a little which she mirrored,”Ok.” There was an awkward pause where nobody knew what to say, and then Sam extended her hand.
“Um, Friends?” She did not know what prompted her ask that, and even Abhi looked surprised, ”I mean, if you like to. Let’s have a fresh start.”
“Ok.” His smile became wider as she grinned, their hands secured in a firm handshake, “Yes, I would like that.”
“Allow me to introduce myself.” Sameera spoke, “Sameera Shekhawat.”
“Abhimanyu Rathore.”
“Hello, Boss. Looking forward to this friendship.”
Sapna fussed on her daughter- or, as much as she could over the phone call. Sam smiled fondly at her Mother’s totka as she panicked hearing her allergic reaction, and in the background she could hear her Uncle adding his two bits. She missed home, and vowed to visit once things started to look a bit better in here.
“Sameera? You there?” Her mom’s words jolted her back and she replied. The other woman sighed, then her Brother took over the call and proceeded to gently scold her for her stupidity. Sameera did not mind, as she looked down and smiled to herself, curling the wire of the landline around her fingers as she lean on the wall. Her eyes went ahead as she was answering to her Uncle that she was fine, then noticed Abhi has entered. Waving a hi, she ended her conversation and joined the former, who was surprisingly waiting for her.
“Family?” He inquired, and she nodded. She could not stop smiling.
“Yes. My darling Mother and Uncle.”
“Father?” He inquired, and at her silence winced, “I am sorry. I should not have . . . “
“It’s fine.” She brushed aside, the momentarily gloomy mood vanishing, “I have never seen him. He passed away when I was barely months old. He was also a pilot, you know?” She turned to him excitedly.
“Yeah?”
“Yep. He was posted in somewhere near LOC in Rajasthan. Rescued several village men during a violent shoot out, and passed away heroically.” She replied, voice laced with pride and sadness that she could never meet the man, “Maa would always say how brave he was. Partially the reason I joined air force.”
“He sounds like a Hero.” He echoed her pride. The duo spoke about a while until they parted ways, Sameera joining the other HAWKS in a training session for Flight maintenance. Abhi kept staring at her until she vanished inside the room, then turned to leave.
His mood had become significantly better post Sameera’s surprising extension of hand for friendship. The woman was a good one, he knew it deep in heart, but for some reason kept hurting her just to keep up his pretence to stay away from people. He was not like that- from childhood, he was one of the most social person one can ever meet. But ever since that incident, followed by his captivity in recent times, he was struggling with his mental health and decided it was best if he stayed away from people, being focused on work.
It’s ironic that how he found friendship within his work.
Even his Mother had noticed his better mood. He would hum when he made coffee, did not try to hide much in front of her. He went to walk with his Father and did speak about something else other than work, surprising the other man. He helped her Mother the other day to get a bottle from higher self, and at her whispered ‘Thanks’ he replied, ‘It’s alright.’ That his Mother was shocked would be an understatement.
It’s the little things Sameera would do that made him look at her with renewed light every single time. Her smile that could lit up a room, how she was quick to take accountability. How she would reach out to other. Never backing out from a challenge even if it’s not upto her level. The more he tried to categorize her, she would surprise him. She was not the girl he saw in rain, crying. She was much more than that.
And he would somehow, always, find himself in her vicinity. Granted, he was the leader of the group she was part with, but it went beyond that. Abhi will realize later that Sameera might have recognized his loneliness and wanted her best not to let him be. Or else how he can explain this action by her just the other day?
As usual, Abhi had entered canteen, ordered himself an omelet, checking his phone and contemplating that it was time he shifted to his apartment, like he used to live pre-captivity days. Enough of staying in his Father’s house, time to stand in his feet once again and let’s see how he cope. In a nearby table he could hear his HAWKS team mates talking and laughing as usual- it was always like this. Their jovial nature would fill up a room.
He saw someone in his eyesight and looked up, a smile automatically coming to see Sameera standing, “Hello, Abhi.”
“Hello.”
“Would you mind joining us for breakfast?” It was not the first time she had approached him, and he was not the only one she ever did. He had noticed frequently her approaching Natasha, and the latter always declining. She was also a lonely soul like him, but these days, he felt a bit resentment towards her for lying to him back in the jungle mission.
“I don’t want to disturb you guys.” He admitted.
“Please. We will love to have you.” He looked up and saw others waving their hand. Sighing in defeat, he got up, about to take his plate but Sameera beating him to it.
“Allow me.” They both joined the others in table, her keeping the plate in front of her to which he replied with a soft ‘Thanks’. She nodded, then sat beside Samrat who made a signal of tipping a hat to her, then put an arm around her as he spoke. Abhi joined in the conversation occasionally, and often saw Disha staring at him in a different way, but before he would analyse it she would smile or look away.
To other’s surprise, Natasha also joined them for the breakfast, delighting Sam to no tomorrow. Samrat whispered to something in her ear to which she elbowed him. With amusement Abhi saw Ali trying and failing to butter up the strict, quiet woman who answered with her sarcasm and often borderline rudeness, but to Ali’s credit he always ignored them. A few times Abhi found Sameera rolling eyes at the antics, snorting himself at the scene in the table.
Natasha left the table once she was done with her coffee, and Samrat made a comment, “Well . . . that happened. “
“Yes.” Ali looked on dreamily as Disha laughed.
“Buddy, please don’t entertain yourself thinking it was for you.” Sameera hid her face behind her hands and Samrat bumped his shoulder with hers, “What, you know its true.”
“Care to fill me in?” Abhi asked to none particular. Sameera dropped her hands.
“Please, don’t.”
“Oh shush.” Samrat looked giddy with pleasure while Ali glared, “Of course, I will be happy to help, Abhi. You see, Ali here, he has been heavily dropping hints to Ice queen since day 1. Natasha. Ice queen.” At Abhi’s ‘Oh’ of understanding he continued, “But she rejected. Rudely. Constantly. Sam here.” He signaled to the woman beside him, “She has been asking her to join the table since day 1. But did Ice queen care? Nope. Only today she had joined us. Guess why.”
“Why?” Abhi bit into his omelet.
“For you.” Disha answered this time and Abhi choked on his food, “It’s his theory. Since that farewell party.” At his frown she clarified, “You two danced.”
“Come on, the theory just got proved.” Samrat leaned on his chair, satisfied with himself.
“Samrat.” Sameera sounded embarrassed, shooting an apologetic look to their Boss. He smiled, which said all was good. He can take an old fashioned teasing.
“Well, Samrat, I think you are way off the mark in here.” Abhi said, then looked to Ali’s hopeful face, “And I won’t be a competition to a fellow buddy. We boys need to stick together, right?”
“Right.” Ali laughed with relief, the men sharing a fist bump.
“Are you committed or something?” Abhi’s smile vanished at the harmless question of Disha, but before he can answer she made an apologetic face, “Don’t answer, I was way out of line.”
“That’s true, shorty.” Samrat said, “Bad idea to ask Boss about his girlfriend. Also, not that deep friendship yet. Maybe after a few days.”
The conversation flew easily after that, mingling with personal life and professional one. Since that day Abhi would always join the team during breakfast or break time, and Sam will never fail to greet him with a wide smile. It was almost as if he went to join just to see her smile.
But then, these thoughts were dangerous. Abhi would sometime catch himself in the last moment- brain going in ‘gotcha!’ as it stopped thinking too hard. There were lines and it should remain the same, even with the new changes.
But then, the heart wants what it wants.
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