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Smita noticed her son from the corner of her eyes as she sat on the dining table, as he made coffee for himself. The early morning sun and birds chipping outside filled her eyes, but she could also hear the house staff up and running- their assigned car getting started outside, gardener pouring water and someone sweeping outside. Her husband, ex Army Suryakant Rathore, had returned late in the night from a conference in Delhi but she knew from past that he would be up anytime now. The family had a habit of waking up early no matter when they went to sleep.

There was something different now, and probably that’s the reason she was no longer that much worried when Abhi informed them, tentatively but with confidence that he would be moving back in his apartment soon. At first she was alarmed- he did not sleep much, would barely eat or take care of himself, and honestly she was worried that there was a chance he would be alone apart from his work time. But then he returned from one of his mission in Wadhra, and she had picked up on his improved mood instantly.

For starters, he had greeted her ‘Good morning’. On his own. That she was shocked would be an understatement. He stopped hiding, made awkward small talks regarding her daily schedule, actually sat with her for a few minutes. She did not know what made him acknowledge her existence in the house or why now, but she heard from her Husband even he had noticed the change. It was no longer just work talks between the two men- Abhi would ask about his hobbies, the clubs he visited, ask about his friends and acquintences. Since the day, she has stopped shedding tears during prayer, thanked God and prayed whatever had changed him, it remains.

She could hear him humming softly as he poured coffee and smiled to herself- he always had a lovely voice. Growing up, he always knew he wanted to be in Air force, but he took music as seriously as he took his studies. But ever since his best friend’s demise, and subsequent chain of events, that hobby was lost somewhere. He did not pick up his guitar yet, but after a long time she would hear his voice and was thankful for the small, baby steps he was making.

“Good morning.” Abhi greeted his Mom with surprise, slightly embarrassed to not to noticed her quietly observing him all alone. She smiled in return, “Coffee?”

“No.” She would make herself a green tea later. He nodded, and then come near her and sat on the table. Probably a month ago, he would just take his mug and go outside, or to his room. The duo made small talk and Smita tried her best to tone down her excitement or ask too many questions to him. He was making progress and she was so glad, but she would not want to spook him unnecessarily. The conversation mostly revolved around his work, just to keep it simple, and then she asked about his team. HAWKS, her husband had told her, was a prestigious group to lead. Suryakant will not stop raving about Veer’s generosity and Abhi’s capability to lead. He always had such faith in him- even when she had almost given up that he can return from his previous mission.

Abhi’s face seem to lit up when she asked about his team, “They are fantastic, really. The best team I can ask for. They have mind of their own, very sincere, but they are always laughing, joking with each other.” He smiled to himself as he took a sip from his coffee.

Smita was intrigued, “Sounds like a fun team to work with.”

“They are, Mom.” He replied instantly.

“What’s their name?”

“There is Samrat, Ali, Disha, Natasha, and Sameera.” His voice went softer at the last name and Smita immediately picked up on that.

“More girls than boys.” Abhi laughed at that, and she did not remember the last he time he did so, “Tell me about them.”

“Well,” He started, and she nodded as he described the various team members- Ali’s technical abilities along with fondness for food, Samrat’s charm, Natasha’s aloofness and strength, Disha’s brilliance, and last but not the least, Sameera. Smita was interested about her mostly, and it was not what Abhi mentioned about her, it’s the way he spoke about her. With respect. This girl he had barely known for few months has earned his respect and she wanted to know more, but thought better to push for more. But it seemed like Abhi could not stop sharing about her- he spoke about her stubbornness, her food allergy back in the mission and her surprising offer of friendship. Smita did not meet the woman yet, but this alone made her want to meet this special team member who was compassionate enough to let him be part of the team and made him sit with others everyday rather than be alone.

Footsteps near them stopped their conversation and Smita looked up to find her Husband joining them, his waking stick clanking on the floor as usual. He greeted the duo ‘Good morning’ and poured himself a juice, inquiring about their topic of conversation. Hearing that it was about HAWKS, he grunted, letting them know Veer shares about the team sometimes.

“Great team, really. I think he had outdone himself to pick the members this time.” Veer and Suryakant’s friendship went years back, only cemented now with the impending engagement between their children which, made Smita think, and she winced internally. “Apart from the girl.” Abhi’s earlier mood vanished at that, “Shekhawat I think?”

“What about her?” He asked cautiously.

“You will know better. But he has told me she is not matching upto others. Rawte even recommended throwing her out.”

“She will be fine.” At Abhi’s tone of defense, both the parents looked at him with renewed eyes, “She is improving. I have a feeling she will be the best anyone has ever seen in the base.”

Suryakant stared at his son for a long time, and with surprise Smita noticed Abhi did not back out from his stare. The former took a sip of his juice, then spoke.

“Well, I hope for your sake, you are right.”

Abhi looked down, probably realizing how different his reaction was, and Smita decided she needs to meet this girl soon. She needed to see for herself. As she was musing about how she can do so, Abhi’s phone chimed. From the look on his face, she knew it had to be Shikha.

This is one thing that needed to be out of his life - but then, this was not her decision to be made. She hoped whatever gave him strength to snap out of his gloominess, helps him to recover from his misplaced guilt as well. Give him hope to live his life.

The HAWKS team returned from one of their flight schedules, excitedly talking among themselves as they shed off their helmets and uniforms before going to the different changing rooms. They usually had a set hours of flight time they need to achieve in a week which is usually done under the supervision of other officers, but today surprisingly, Abhi showed up and offered to have a go at it. Of course, as he was the leader and best person to handle a flight, the flight trainer let him in, and Sam excitedly greeted him as he was paired with her, splitting the team in three groups consists of two.

After returning from mission and passing out all the tests necessary, Abhi had flew fighter jet, and he was confident to handle this one as well. The teams were in constant touch with each other through comms and base as they went towards a familiar route, Abhi especially checking with his partner who, to his delight, could handle a jet fairly well. He encouraged her with appreciative comments, but the normal schedule took a turn when the boys decided to show off- as it usually goes with men. Samrat decided to do a flip and others could hear Disha’s excited cum scared squeal in their ears, and with a verbal agreement from Sameera, Abhi decided to show off his own skills. Ali also wanted to join in with the show off, but stopped when Natasha threatened to throw up all over inside the jet.

“We missed a chance, what you say, Natasha?” The team was about to go to their separate ways when Ali asked, and others saw with amusement when the other woman gave him a death glare, and then turned to Abhi.

“I am never pairing up with him.” With that, she stalked off to change, others chuckling at Ali who made a sad face.

“Who knew Ice queen had vertigo?” Samrat commented.

“Its not about vertigo, even I got scared for a moment.” Disha admitted, but he brushed it aside.

“But you did not. And that, my friend, makes you amazing.”

Once the team went to their separate ways, Abhi found himself in the library followed by an excited Sameera who begged him to teach how to do flips with the fighter jets. Inside, he was pleased with her tenacity and undivided attention, but just to keep up pretense he decided to say no.

“Please Abhi.” She pleaded with a twinkle in eyes, “I will learn fast, I promise.”

“That’s dangerous.” He replied, taking a book off library shelf and then keeping it back again, “We were just messing around. That’s not a life skill you will need.”

“Abhi please.” She almost whined, and that made him smile. He had a feeling he can’t say No to her no matter what she asks. Making a dramatic sigh, he turned to her, giving a look. Sameera did not understand and frowned, then followed Abhi again as he stalked towards Physics section, brought out a few heavy books, and dumped them on her arms.

“Finish these, and then we will talk.” She made a face, looking down at them.

“I thought we will be in a jet?”

“Theory first, practical later.” He internally smiled at her annoyance, “Once you are done with them, let me know.” And with that, he walked away.

Disha found her roommate slash soon to be bestie yawning as she struggled to finish a thick book. She sat beside her as Sam looked up, turning the cover to see the book’s title.

“Why you reading this?” Then she looked at the time, “It’s late. You should sleep.”

“It’s all Abhi’s fault, really.” Disha chuckled at her complaint as the former sat up, resting herself on a pillow in her lap, “I told him, ‘Abhi, please teach me how to do flips. Like Samrat and you did.’ And he said,” She lowered her tone to mimic Abhi’s voice, “Read these, theory first, practice later.” She huffed in annoyance, but took the book anyway and read through the pages.

Disha smiled as she looked at the other woman. She had noticed the changing equation between the Leader and her, going from ignore, forced partnership to today’s level where they genuinely like to be in each others company. Disha had often caught Abhi looking at Sam as if he is seeing her for the first time, and Sam too, never forgets to greet him with a smile no matter how much tired she is. But then, she is a good soul. Disha don’t really become over friendly with people but in no time Sam had become someone important to her.

“Sam, can I say something?” At the former’s nod she continued, “I think it’s amazing how you have reached out to Abhi. I wonder how that happened.”

Sam closed her book and turned towards her as Disha got ready for the storytime, “I offered friendship.” At Disha’s surprised expression she nodded, “And he accepted. That I was shocked would be understatement. But it’s great to see him not being broody all the time. People should not be alone.” Sam thought about her own life- even with her Mom and Uncle, there was always this loneliness, which reduced a significant amount once Samrat entered her life. But she knew loneliness when she could see it.

Sam would never tell anyone how Abhi seemed to control his emotion, always thinking and speaking carefully. How he yelled at her in the corridor which shocked him, making her realize he was not in his control at times. How he sometime will open up and the next moment become harsh as if to hide himself. She did not know why she noticed him or his actions, but she did. Now that the Man has become a friend, she had promised to herself she won’t let him be alone- already the boys adore him and girls look upto him. He will have a support system in his workplace.

“That’s really nice of you, Sam.” Disha admired her quality to see her best in people. “I hope he also appreciates your friendship.” The other woman smiled appreciatively at her comment, “Okay now it’s getting ridiculously late. Let’s sleep.”

But Sameera never slept, and Disha shook her head in the morning when she found her buried inside the book as she dozed, her frame in awkward position. Early days of friendship and this is the state, she wondered how Sam will become once the relation deepens.

Something sinister was going on right under the nose of Airbase authorities and the HAWKS team, who had vowed to safeguard this country. Nobody knew that the plan is in motion, and it started with one of the Sukhoi the base had recently got from France. There were several test flights and the control looked great, and it was decided that for the upcoming Airforce day, it will be in the fore front for the air show. The responsibility was given to Natasha, who took it seriously and spent majority of her time with the jet, trying to understand every nook and corner.

On the other side, Abhi’s family was invited as the part of Airforce day celebration, and Smita thought it was a great opportunity to meet the girl she had long thought in mind. Once she and her Husband arrived, he was whisked away by his usual group of friends and ex co-workers, leaving his wife to mingle with other Army families. Abhi dropped by once, greeted everyone and left, promising to let her meet his team once the show was over. Just when his Father, Suryakant, arrived with his group, the show started.

The HAWKS team along with five hundred odd people looked in awe at the annual air show celebration, as jets flew over doing stunts and pouring rainbow colors in the sky. It was going smooth, but in the end the Sukhoi handled by Natasha missed a last dramatic flip to end the show. Beside the HAWKS team, Abhi frowned- he was sure Natasha did not miss it, then why was the mismatch? Thankfully, there were no accidents and soon the show came to an end, the guests moving into inside a party hall for food and beverages.

Natasha had barely touched ground when Abhi was standing there, the HAWKS team in tow as they saw the tensed look on his face, “What happened?”

“It malfunctioned.” She answered gravely, as others looked in shock, “I checked it myself last night. I swear it was working fine.”

Abhi had a bad feeling about it, but this was no time to discuss it, “We will figure it out later. Let’s leave.” He turned to his team and all scooted away. He gave a last look at the Sukhoi, frowned, then left, not before telling the engineers who came rushing not to let anyone else in before he says so. Once inside the party, he went to meet Veer sir and informed the same to him.

“Do you think it was done intentionally?” He asked in a grave tone. Abhi thought before speaking.

“I would like for it to be tested. Sir, if I may,” At Veer sir’s nod he continued, “I want to send Disha to have a look at it. She is good.”

“If you say so.” He agreed, and before leaving told him to keep him aware of every single information they find. Abhi nodded, thinking to himself how lucky Natasha was that nothing bad happened. He hoped it was a mechanical failure, as the alternate option looked too messy. His eyes fell on Natasha, who had decided to join the party but her face looked tensed, and walked upto her.

“Abhi,” Just as she was about to speak, he handed her over a glass of juice.

“Relax.” He soothed, “We will check it.”

“I am not sure what happened once I was up there.” She shook her head, disappointed in herself, ”It never happened to me.”

“Jets malfunction.” He tried to brush it off but she pinned him with a steely glare.

“Really, Abhi? You trying that hogwash?” She let out a laugh of disbelieve, “I am sure something happened to it. And I will find it, it’s just a matter of time.”

“We will.” He replied, and a silent understanding passed between them. So he also had a suspicion, Natasha thought. Good, now they both can clear it, if there is nothing to be worried about- great. If there is something, god help her . . .

Silence descended between the two as the room’s chatter filled as the background noise. Natasha remembered something and cleared her throat, getting his attention back.

“Abhi? I apologize for the other day.” At his frown she clarified, “The jungle mission? If I had paid attention we would not have left Sameera and Samrat behind.”

The earlier thoughtful look vanished from his face as Abhi looked irritated, thinking for a while what to speak before bursting, his words coming as frustrated and little bit angry.

“I think you did pay attention. You just did not care whether they were following us or not.”

Natasha did not deny and it seemed to anger him further, “I did not. In that moment, we needed to reach. Samrat is smart, he would have reached the camp site. And he did.”

“And what if they had not?”

“It was a test, Abhi. If something bad had happened, God forbid, Veer sir was there, so were other teams. Rescue ops. They would have reached them.” She knew what she did was selfish, but it was a test to see who would reach first. And they did, fair and square, it’s not like she misdirected Samrat or something. It was not her fault Sameera had an allergy or that she was sick.

If silence had a meaning, Abhi’s would mean bottling up storm inside, “Natasha, I respect your skills. Your upfrontness, your grit and determination. But I would like to tell you, the thing you did back there? Don’t repeat it. Consider it as a warning or whatever you seem fit.” He raised a hand when she opened her mouth to speak, “This is a team, not an elimination process where only one can survive. We need team work to sustain, to protect our country. Next time do think of others before your own benefit.”

She was insulted at his words, “Really? So what about tomorrow, you need to chose between team,” She made an air quote at that, “and country? I don’t really need to ask, do I? The concept of team is bullshit, Abhi. You do your work, I do mine, and it will function just fine.”

Abhi opened his mouth to say something, but realized the conversation had went heated enough. Besides, this is not something he can impose on her or change her mind with one talk. This is something she needed to learn. Natasha also seemed frustrated that he had stopped, slammed her drink on the counter and stormed off.

Abhi sighed as he looked at her, then his eyes went over the gathering, trying to find his Mother.

Far away from the maddening crowd, Smita had stumbled onto, literally, on Sameera. But she did not know it yet- she had nearly slipped on the wet floor on washroom and the pleats of her Saree became uneven, and a young lady airforce officer was helping her to fix the same. They spoke a bit and Smita felt happy just by seeing her helping nature and small talks which made her smile, and once she was done, Smita extended her hand for thanking her.

“Please Ma’am, no need.” She looked embarrassed at her praise, “May I escort you back in the party?”

Deciding that she wanted to be in her company more, Smita agreed. Between conversation she introduced herself as Abhi’s mother and her face lit up, praising him as ‘Hero’ and best leader this base has ever seen. Then she introduced herself, and Smita marveled at God’s wish- she was looking for Sameera from HAWKS team, and God himself made her come to her.

She enthusiastically shook hand with Sameera as she become amused at the nice lady, “Pleased to meet you. Abhi speaks about you . . . your team a lot.” She caught herself in time as the former gave a confused smile, “You,” Her throat clogged up with unshed tears, “you brought him back.”

Smita wondered how much Sameera would understand the meaning behind her words, but she looked with disbelieve as she nodded at that, her eyes sympathetic. Maybe she does understand, and that’s why she reached out to Abhi. Her compassion send a rush of affection in her heart- good people like Sameera are rare to find these days.

As if on cue, Abhi arrived, surprised to see his Mother and team mate together, “Where you have been?” He gave a nod to Sameera to which she gave a wide smile.

“I was lost.” The elderly lady squeezed hand of Sameera as she blushed a bit at the display of affection from a lady who was of the age of her Mother, “And she found me. Finally, I get to meet her. Now, introduce me to rest.” Her voice went stern in the end and Abhi nodded, helpless, even though a small smile escaped him. Sameera laughed, and then decided to leave the Mother son alone. Just as she was passing, she stopped near the Ganesha idol, folded her palms and closed her eyes to pray. The rays from oil lamps gave her an other worldly glow and Abhi stared, transfixed, something strange bubbling inside him. After moments which seemed like a lifetime, Sameera opened her eyes, touched the feet of idol and left, not before giving a last smile to Abhi and his Mother.

Smita noticed it all and some more, and remained silent, filing it away in the back of her mind. This needs to be dissected at a better time.

That Sameera was worried would be an understatement. Disha was missing from the time the two left together the airforce day party, and it was nearing midnight. She paced inside her room constantly, looking at the clock and almost chewing her nails. She did inform her about going to check something, but no matter how much she tried she could not remember.

The clock chimed, announcing the arrival of midnight- or rather, start of a new day, and Sameera had enough. This was not normal, Disha would never be out of room post curfew time. Picking up her dupatta which was casually thrown over her bed, Sameera locked her room’s door and marched ahead.

Half an hour later, the entire base was awake and actively looking for Disha, who was nowhere to be found. The HAWKS team stood together, in a various degree of disbelieve expression and messy, night clothes, and for some reason even Natasha looked worried. Ali had suggested to call Disha’s home and Sameera had no answer- if this was an home emergency she would have informed someone. Someone had even informed Veer sir, and if he had permitted he would have informed them about Disha’s sudden leave.

At the thought of Veer sir, Sameera’s heart sank- nobody had informed Abhi. She excused herself and rushed towards the pay phone, the usual one which hung from a wall where she calls home every day. Asking the number for Rathore residence, she called, silently praying God that he had some answer.

Smita picked the call and disappointment flooded Sameera, who had finally had enough of this nerve wrecking night which did not seem to pass. An alarmed Smita consoled the teary eyed officer who she met just this morning that Abhi had shifted to his apartment, and before she can give her his number Sameera had cut the call. She clutched the phone tightly in her hand, then rang Abhi immediately, who answered in his groggy, sleep laced tone. The moment she mentioned Sameera’s distressed state he had jumped out of his bed, picked a hoodie and ran towards the base- which, thankfully, was only a walking distance.

The HAWKS team had spread out with others to look for Disha, searching each nook and corner of the base. Sameera was running towards something and banged hard to someone. A pair of strong arms steadied her as she looked up, immediately sobbing in relief.

“Abhi.” The Man looked alarmed at her state. Running hand through her shoulder as to calm her down, Sameera informed him Disha was nowhere to be seen from almost afternoon.

“She mentioned something, Abhi, I don’t remember.” She was guilty and absolutely wrecked, and his heart sank- he had sent her to check the jet. At the same time Sameera also remembered Disha mentioning about visiting the workshop, and exclaimed.

“Workshop! Abhi!” Their eyes met and then they were sprinting towards the workshop where flights are kept for maintenance, their hands interlinked. Once inside the workshop which somehow nobody thought to check, they shouted Disha’s name, and Abhi was the one who stumbled upon Disha’s unconscious body. Sameera looked on with horror as fear paralyzed her, Abhi giving her a glance before kneeling down to check her pulse. Thankfully, she was alive and breathing, and he picked her in his arms, the other woman running after him.

The medics were on standby and took the lady officer from Abhi, and Sameera slumped on a nearby seat, hiding face behind her hand. Abhi called Veer sir immediately to give the news, assuring the senior officer that he would handle everything and inform him on the progress on hourly basis. He turned to find his team mate’s small frame wrecking with sobs and his chest constricted- he had never seen her so distressed, except for that night when he saw her for the first time, crying in rain. He sat beside her silently, keeping hand over her head as he stroked her hair.

“It’s my fault.” He shushed her but she shook head, stubbornness filling her tone, “She informed me. I could not remember, stupid me.” She wiped tears with the back of her tone, her face going white as sheet, “What if something bad happens, Abhi?”

He just could not see her so heartbroken, but there was nothing he can do other than empty words. Subconsciously, he wanted to pull her close and hug her tight, whisper soothing words in her ears to console her, but its been a long time that he consoled someone or someone consoled him, and he felt as if that part of him has died along with someone from his past.

“Okay, okay.” He made her look at him after a while as her sobs calmed a bit, thumb brushing away tears, “Nothing will happen to her, Okay? I promise.”

“What if . . .”

“No. You believe in God, right? Believe in him. He will never let bad things happen to good people.” He actually did believe in it. Or else why he is suffering so much?

Sameera nodded at his words, both of moving away to control their emotions even though their hands remained interlinked, clasped tightly together. After a while, footsteps echoed the silent infirmary and the duo looked up to find the remaining HAWKS joining them. Sameera stood up instantly as Samrat extended his hand, and Abhi let go of her hand, feeling an emptiness instantly.

The doctors informed it will take hours for Disha to wake up, and once they left the teams argued who should be here. After a lot of convincing everyone left except Sameera and Abhi, and he looked at her in exasperation.

“Sameera . . . “

“No.” She shook head, decision already made, “If I need the sleep so do you. You are staying, then I am staying. Nothing will happen if I skip sleep for one night.”

“Tomorrow is important.” He replied. There was no need for her to remain here and be even more tensed. She pinned him with a look.

“Everyday is. I will be fine, please,” Her throat clogged with unshed tears again and Abhi just could not argue with her post this, “let me stay. Please Abhi?”

He nodded and sighed, silence descending around them once again. Sameera put both her feet up and rested her cheek, staring at something on the ground. After a long time, she asked.

“How do you think she was hurt, Abhi?” His heart picked up on the question. On one side, he hoped Disha had probably slipped on something or something mundane had happened, but his logical side who had suspected a jet malfunction thought maybe it was enemy who did not want her to find out whatever it was wrong with the jet. The timing was too suspicious.

“I think she might have an accident. It was just unfortunate she was all alone there.” He felt his inside burning at the lie but decided not to burden her with the semi truth. But to her credit, Sameera saw right through his words.

“You are not telling the truth, Abhi.” He was shocked at her accurate assessment, “I don’t know how, but I can feel it.” She looked at him with pleading eyes, “Can you just tell me one thing?” At his nod she asked, “Is there someone who would actively try to hurt her?”

His silence was answer enough and her eyes filled with tears again, “So this is how it’s going to be, eh? Surrounded by danger and blood.”

“This is the path we chose, Sameera.”

At his response, she looked up but said nothing. Abhi looked away, not wanting to see the look of emptiness in her eyes. His heart did not understand what was this connection between them. She would see through his loneliness and lies and he already felt as if there was nothing he won’t do if she asks for it. But thoughts like these were dangerous, especially when the two were alone together and a possible criminal was still roaming inside the base.

When he turned to look at Sameera, she was dozing. Due to the awkward position her frame slipped and Abhi immediately put an arm around her, steadying her- or trying to be close to her, he did not know. Or did not want to know, did not want to analyse. Just let it be.

Just let this moment be.

The first rays of sun filled the empty corridors of medic room and Abhi woke up, forgetting when he himself had dozed off. Warm fingers were pressed against his neck and he looked at it, finding Sameera’s hand supporting his head all night long. He moved too quickly and she jolted awake, the surprised expression turned to bashful as he stared.

“I thought your neck must hurt.” She pushed away her hair and looked away as he stayed silent. After a while, he had finally managed to convince Sameera to leave and she did, not before taking a promise for him to let her know when Disha wakes up. Abhi kept staring at the other woman until she vanished from his sight, then turned to make a phone call to Veer sir to update him on the progress. Once he was done, with the permission of Nurse, he moved inside Disha’s room. A huge bandage was wrapped around her head as she slept, and even in her sleep she frowned, as if in distress. He waited inside the room for a few minutes, and Disha woke up with a groan, instantly alert seeing the leader there. He asked on her health but Disha jumped right into to topic.

“There was someone there, Abhi. I saw him- or rather, his shoes.” She explained she found a broken wire which looked intentionally done, and someone had hit her head with a blunt object. Before losing consciousness, she could only see the person’s shoes.

“We should check the CCTV.” She suggested, but Abhi had already ordered to do so and had a feeling nothing will come out of it. The workshop was dark and there were majority people with access to enter there. They would need something else to work through. Bidding goodbye to Disha and telling her to be safe, Abhi walked out of the hospital, looking thoughtful. Thinking to have a mug of steaming coffee, he walked into the canteen, and found Sameera again. The woman was reading a thick book but it was clear her mind was in somewhere else. He dragged a chair to sit opposite her, and she looked up, surprised yet greeting him with a small smile.

“Disha?”

“She is awake, she will be fine.” She sighed in relief at that, rubbing her tired face with both palms. It was a rough night for both of them, but Abhi realized it was more for her. She probably might have never seen an injured person, much less than her own colleague lying in a pool of her own blood. It was quite a traumatic sight for her, he thought with sympathy.

Trying to divert her mind from thoughts of Disha, Abhi asked her, “What are you reading?”

She made a face and he turned the pages to look at the cover, amused to see one of the book he had handed over to her when she wanted to learn the jet flip. She narrowed eyes at him, then dramatically buried her head into the open book.

“It’s the third book, Abhi! I don’t want to read anymore.” He chuckled at her antics, heart filling with familiar affection for the woman. After a few moments, he tapped onto her head, and she looked up, face resigned yet curious.

“I will teach you.” She sat up immediately at his words, excitement on her face as she extended her hand.

“Promise?”

He gave in immediately, “I promise.” She nodded at it, the book shut and forgotten, “Once Disha is back, we will do it. Okay?”

She nodded as he took the book from her hands, turning pages and thinking to tease his team mate further, “You said this is the third book, right? So you must have memorized the other two?”

“Yes.” She answered with confidence, then became alarmed, “But not like page number and paragraph number, okay? I am not Einstein.”

“So if I ask anything, you can answer?” He asked in semi serious tone. She nodded with confidence and he started his questionnaire. To her credit, she remembered majority of the answers and he was impressed. She did want to learn, be it theory or practical. She wanted to improve, and that’s the reason she had seek him out that day outside canteen to ask about her performance. He felt ashamed at the way he had shouted back at her, and shook himself away from the thoughts.

“Good job.” She beamed at his praise, and then he saw the timing- they were already late for Veer sir’s meeting. Giving a look at each other, the duo sprinted towards the meeting room, other officers in base clearing way for them and murmuring about their run. Standing in front of the room, Sameera turned to him, signaling at his cloth. Abhi looked down- it had dried blood all over it. He went off to change and Sameera entered inside.

Veer sir gave a cold look at her late arrival, but said nothing as Sam joined her team mates, all looking at various state of distress. Samrat gave a tight lipped smile as she stood near him, and in no time Veer sir started with his presentation. Their next mission will have them flying over villages near LOC and take pictures where suspected terror activity was going on. They were going over the maps and asking question when Abhi entered. Veer sir gave him an appreciative glance at the Physics book in his hand and Sam narrowed his eyes, confusing the leader. When he looked at the book in his hand, he was embarrassed also internally laughing at her offended expression. Once everyone settled in he updated on Disha’s health, and then the meeting went on like it never stopped.

“There will be two steps for this mission.” Abhi overtook the meeting as Veer sir said, listening to him with pride even if his face looked sombre, “Step one, we will fly near the marked locations as mentioned in the map.” He zoomed into the red circle marked in the map, “Our next step will depend upon this step. If we get nothing from the pictures, we wont be able to proceed.”

“Flying over LOC is dangerous.” Veer sir added, “There will be extensive training for you guys for at least 2 weeks, along with studies and planning. It starts today, which means Disha won’t be present for the flying mission.” The team mates looked sad at the comment, “But, she can join you guys for the next step if you all complete the mission with full success.”

There were chorus of ‘Yes Sir!’ and thus marked the proper start of HAWKS mission.

Abhi got no breath to catch for these two weeks. There were team meetings and flying schedule that needed to be finished, co-ordinating with security team regarding the attack on Disha, regular meeting with Veer sir and other high profile seniors in the Army regarding the jet malfunction. On the other side, HAWKS team fared no better- it was exactly like their preparation for the Jungle mission, only ten times worse and gruelling. Sam came back to her empty room each night and sometimes passed out in her uniform, and even the usually jolly Samrat looked tensed and extensively worked on the mission. More than excitement, it was fear to execute the mission properly as it was their first and Veer sir was there for each meeting and training session, personally monitoring. Abhi was often missing, or joining them for flying schedule but there was no time to catch up with him over food or general hang out- he came and left in a wink.

4 days before the Flying mission, Sameera and rest of the HAWKS team were sitting inside Library, going through old reports and technical books when Ali yawned loudly. The librarian, Mrs. Gill, shushed the team as Natasha threw him a disgusted look, took her book and left to sit alone in another table, making the other man frown.

“No sleep?” Samrat asked casually.

“No yaar, and my back hurts.” Ali moved in his chair and his bones cracked, making the other two wince, “Actually, all of me hurts. Ugh.”

“I have not studied this much even during Air force entrance exam.” Samrat leaned back to his chair, closing the report, “This mission better go good.”

“It will.” Sameera soothed. There were small talks about the sessions and then about Disha- the other woman is supposed to return tomorrow. The head injury had healed a bit and doctors gave her go ahead to come back. The HAWKS team was so busy these days that they could barely go and meet her, for which they vowed to apologize extensively. Sam knew that Disha would understand the seriousness of the situation and won’t hold petty grudge over them.

The newspaper that Ali was reading caught Sam’s attention and she sat straight. It was the NEWTOWN comet that was scheduled to pass in the area, which was a once in century phenomenon. She loved stars and everything about them, and if she was back in her home town she would have woke all night to watch it. But in base, they had a curfew. After 10 pm Dark hours start and nobody was allowed to be out- she were out couple of times after Natasha beat her in that training session, but post that Rawte had seen her couple of times and Sam felt it’s better to not venture out just in case.

There was no way to be out, unless . . .

It was almost as if her God had listened to her unspoken wish, as Abhi entered the library just then, shoulders hunched and face grave as he used to be when he first joined them. His tall figure vanished inside some books section and Sam excused herself from the boys, heading towards him.

Abhi turned as Sameera’s tentative ‘Hello’ filled his ears, immediately feeling all his worries he carried on his head melting off. It felt too long that he had seen her or they had gotten time to even stand in front of each other. It was a couple of frustrating days as well- there was nothing they could get on Disha’s attacker and the base’s credibility hung in balance. Veer sir had showed immense faith in him, but he knew he was letting him down- he gave him responsibility of this team and he had failed him big time.

“Um,” She pushed her small hair behind ears before asking, hopeful, “Abhi, may I ask you a favor?” At his confused nod she asked, wishing this lie will pass, “I wanted to stay in library for longer period, it might also extend after Dark hours. Can you give a permission or something?”

The favor was innocent enough, but how she looked down and almost mumbled the request made Abhi suspicious, “You planning to study late?”

She nodded, too enthusiastic for his liking, “There are many things left to cover.”

“You can just read in your room.”

“There are too many books.” She answered quickly. Catching her lie, he crossed his arms over chest, staring at her. She looked back, almost challenging, then sighed and gave up.

“I want to stay out, Abhi. It’s the NEWTOWN!”

“The what?”

She gasped in shock, “You don’t know?” At his slow shaking of head with the forever going frown, she grabbed his wrist and nearly dragged him till they were standing in front of newspaper rack. Picking one paper from it, she went through the pages quickly before thrashing it in front of his face.

“Newtown comet.” He read slowly, still confused. She sighed at his lack of knowledge, and Abhi wondered when was the last time he saw her this animated over something positive.

“This is a special comet Abhi, which is scheduled to pass tonight over us. This is an once in lifetime moment, really.”

“Because it comes every hundred years.” She nodded at him, happy that he is finally getting it, “And you want to see it?”

There are things he know about Sameera on the superfluous level- her compassion, her tight bond with friends, her caring nature, her smiling face, how she take accountability quickly. Then he knows some things which are obvious but needs attention- she don’t like ketchup with snacks as it ‘ruins’ the taste of it. She likes to talk. There is not a day that goes by without her calling to her family. Her Mother is her everything. Her hair is always tied up. She plays pool with a fierce sense of competition.

But still, there are things that he doesn’t know, like her love for stars. There were some distant memory back in the day when he was not as close to the group as he was now, and Sameera sometime mentioned about stars position and how they helps to navigate in case of emergency. Of course, there is no surprise that she want to watch this one in a century phenomenon.

She finished speaking about the comet and looked at him, hopeful, biting her lips, and Abhi had to look away. He was going to stall, pretend its against rule to be outside after dark, but in his heart he knew the moment she asked for this, he was going to say Yes. And he did, and she squealed in surprise, almost jumping to hug him, but then the librarian made an angry noise, glaring the the duo. They whispered sorry and turned to look at each other, grinning like idiots.

“Thank you Abhi!” She gushed, “I will remember this favor. One day I will pay back this, I swear.”

He kept the newspaper he had been holding all this while and walked out, her following him, “So you going to watch the comet alone?”

She looked down, “If I was back in home, Uncle would have been with me. He taught me all about stars.” She laughed at a memory, “You know, when I was a kid, sometimes fighter jets will fly over our house. The sound would echo from miles away. I would run out to the backyard, and when the jet was over me, jump in the air as if to touch it. And look at me now, not only I get to touch it, but I fly it until I am exhausted.” They both chuckled at the story.

“The first time I saw a jet, my mouth was open. Abhi had to say ‘close your mouth moron’.” Abhi also shared his side of memory, “The awe never fades.” But the memory was not what made Sam frown, it the name.

“Abhi?”

His smile faded at her question, realizing his folly immediately, but pretended as if he did not hear the question in her tone. Clearing his throat, he looked at her, “And I thought you will show me some courtesy. I give you permission and you don’t even ask me if I want to watch the comet.”

She was confused at the sudden turn of conversation but the excitement of the upcoming event made her forget it, “I did not think you were interested.” At his stern face she stammered, “Um, of course, if you want. Sure.”

“Better.” He replied, “10pm, sharp in this place. Don’t be late.” He walked off.

“Never for this!”

Sameera walked out of her room and looked hear and there, as if going to rob a place. Then she remembered she had the permission from the leader of HAWKS, kept her spine straight and walked as if she owns the place, heart beating in excitement. The comet was supposed to pass them sharp at 11.14, and she wanted to be early. Today was a good day, Disha was unexpectedly back early, and the girls spent a long time just hugging and talking excitedly about what the former missed. Sam did not tell her about this adventure, quietly sneaked out her room as the former snored softly.

Abhi was already waiting when she reached, and she almost teased him at his enthusiasm but decided against it. Once again he was dressed in a hoodie, checking his phone as his feet tapped on the floor. When he looked at her as she was approaching, his gaze seemed to burn as he kept his eyes fixed on her. Felling suddenly shy herself, she responded with a tight lipped smile, standing near him.

“Ready?” He asked after a long time as time seemed to get lost between the two of them. Sameera exhaled.

“As I will ever be.”

Turned out, there was a stairs about which Sam had no idea that led them upto the rooftop. It was largely empty, apart from two small pillars in the middle which came upto their waist and some plants around the edges. She turned to look at him, surprised at this place which was hiding in plain sight.

“This place is my favorite.”

“More than the runway?” She teased and he gave a small smile in return.

“After that, of course. Whenever I need to think, or be alone, I come here. And you know the best part?” At her shaking head he came closer, pointing in far away.

“You can see the jets parked right there. And when they fly, its so low that you can almost touch its belly. So, I am not really far from my favorite places.I get both.”

The duo sat on the ground, their back resting against the pillars as they spoke about everything and nothing. The conversation flew towards hobbies and Abhi hesitantly admitted about his guitar.

“That’s amazing.” She whispered in awe, “Me, on the other hand, am a horrible singer. I would not even dare to sing in the shower.” He laughed at it, “So, do you still play? Do you get any time?”

Time is not an issue for a hobby, but in his case it was more like lack of will. At his head shake, she spoke softly, hugging her knees closer as she rested her head on them, “You should. I bet you are really good at it.”

“How do you know?”

“Well, is there something else you are not good at?” She was not even teasing. This man was perfect- right from academia, to professional skill, and as a human being. The more she spent time and saw him under the harsh exterior, the fonder he became to her.

“That’s true.” Abhi spoke in mock arrogance, but she did not laugh. The duo stared at each other for a long time.

“You will miss the comet.” He could not look away, speaking softly as if not to ruin this moment.

“I still have time.”

Sameera was talking about how she and Samrat met when they were in 10th standard, when the watch in her wrist rang. She had set an alarm on the exact time as mentioned in the paper, and she looked up on the north east direction, excited beyond anything as Abhi did the same. Soon enough, the comet graced with its presence, slowly crossing the sky as its white tail left smoke behind.

“You know there is a story about the comet.” She whispered.

“What is it?” Abhi asked, unable to look away from the sky.

“A boy saw a comet, and felt as if his life had meaning. It gave him direction, meaning, made his life beautiful. But one day it went away.”

He tore his gaze away from the sky at looked at her, invested in the story, “Then what happened?”

“He waited his entire life for it to come back. People did not believe him, laughed at him. But he knew one day it will be back, and then, his life will be whole again.” Sameera turned to look at him, lips adorning in a soft smile, “Make a wish, Abhi.”

He closed the eyes and did just that.

The comet had finally went so far that it was impossible to locate it with naked eyes, and the duo decided to leave. Abhi offered to walk her till women hostel, not ready to part ways just yet. There was this silence after speaking to so long, and none of them mind it- it was peaceful.

“Abhi,” He looked at her, “Thank you. I will never get tired of saying it, but thank you. None would have done the same as you did tonight, and I am not even sure why. But thank you.”

Even he did not know why he permitted her wish, apart from the fact that she would have been sad about missing this once in a century opportunity and he did not like the thought of it. Shaking head at its internal musings, he gave a small smile, putting hands in his hoodie pockets.

“Maybe I wanted to see it too.”

“Whatever it is, I am indebted.” Her lips stretched in a full blown smile, and after a while she looked at the sky again, “Goodbye. Until I see you in next life, I guess.”

“You believe in next life?” He raised eyebrows.

“Who knows how the universe functions, right?” She shrugged, then looked down, “Um, I should go. It’s getting late.”

“Of course.” He spoke too quickly. There were no hand shake or hug, and she kept stealing glances behind as she walked inside, just as Abhi kept gazing even when she was halfway inside the corridors.

“Sameera!” He yelled all of a sudden, and she turned around, surprised. In the quietness of the night, her name seemed to echo and bounce back from the buildings hiding in shadows.

“What did you wish for?” This was an excuse, a mistake. It was childish, it was unnecessary. Why would she share about her heart’s desire, and why would not he ask her this tomorrow? It was just a pretense to keep her longer. It was late, she needed rest as did he.

She gave a mischievous smile and he felt his own mirroring the same, “You are not supposed to tell anyone your wish, Abhi, or else it will not come true.” Her eyes went softer, “Goodnight, Abhi.”

He stayed rooted to the spot once her figure vanished inside the darkness, and he looked up. The comet was gone, but the white residue of its tailed remained stretched across the dark blue sky. He took a deep breath.

“I think my wish has already come true.”