The moving on (sort of)

Only Sam knew how she managed to put on a smile and try to clear her eyes on any upcoming tears as the team witnessed the new girl in their Boss’s arms.

Judging by the closeness, she knew she other woman was a girlfriend, or maybe heading towards something more. She never felt more foolish in her life- harboring feelings for a taken man, when the man himself was nothing but kind to her. Saved her at every point since the day they met. She can’t even fault him for this revelation, the mistake, as always, lies with her. How could she even think about it?

He was a great man, a hero, a good role model. She is suboridnate, struggling in her career for stability.

The new girl turned to the HAWKS team, dragging Abhi as she held onto his arms, “Introduce.” She commanded, with a playful smile as her eyes sparkled.

Abhi smiled, glancing at the group and then to her, “Team HAWKS, meet my girlfriend, Shikha Veer Pratap Singh.” The team murmured Hello, then Samrat winked at Sam before teasing their boss.

”Girlfriend?” Making a tsk sound, he added, “What a shame. Pretty lady like you need a more solid commitment.”

Shikha was unfazed by the flirting, only a slight amused as she pressed herself closer to Abhi, “I tell him the same. But Abhi is a busy man. Don’t worry,” She stared at the former before smiling again, “I am going to seal it this year.”

“Congrats.” It was Disha, and Abhi did not dare to meet her eyes, unsure of what he would see. Shikha pressed for individual introduction and Samrat, once again, took charge.

“Shorty, Foody, Ice queen, Sam, Samrat.” Pointing fingers at his team mate, he introduced himself in the end, hand on chest. Shikha laughed at it, talking to the team mates. Disha was in frenzy, but one look from Natasha and she tried to calm herself down.

“I have heard about you.” Ali shook head with Shikha, and Disha stared at him something close to shock and anger.

“You did?” Ali was taken aback at the tone of hers, opening and closing his mouth as he tried to answer. An awkward silence fell and Sameera intervened.

“She means you guys knew, and we did not. It’s unfair, now that we see how lovely you are.” She gave a wide smile and Shikha returned, though her eyes remained curious. Beside her Abhi had stiffened, eyes on Sameera as he tried to find any discomfort in her he had seen earlier. There was none, and he wondered if he was hallucinating before, or he is disappointed now.

“Sam, right?” The two ladies shook hand.

“Sameera Shekhawat.”

Once the meet and greet was over, Sameera left the party as if her house was on fire. Disha tried to follow her immediately, but Natasha held her arm.

“Leave her alone.”

“But . . . “

“You gave her hope and it’s gone now.” She was being harsh and she did not care, like always. Disha’s face fell, “Let her grieve.” The two tried to mingle with the boys, who sensed something was off but did not ask, filing it for later. After a while Natasha went outside to look for Sameera- even though she stopped Disha, she was worried.

Sameera sat on a bench, staring down at the ground as tears streamed down her face. When she heard footsteps, she hurriedly wiped them off, her face hiding behind her hair which has gotten longer in all these months.

Natasha did not know what to say as she sat beside her. Sameera turned her face, trying to smile.

“Was I gone for long?” At the former’s stern look, she sobered her fake perky tone. Sighing, she let the silence stretched on.

“I knew about them. I should have told you in hospital, I am . . . “ At her shake of head, Natasha stopped.

“It was none’s fault but mine. But it’s okay.” She tried to smile again, “It was put to an end before it went out of hand, right?”

“Are you sure it’s put to an end, or it did not go out of hand?” Her smile faded at the question and Natasha could feel her thinking hard.

“I will try.” She spoke with confidence, “And this time, I will succeed. Because there are no other choice.” Sameera stood up, shaking herself off the heartbreak, “I came here for my dream. For my Mother. It’s time to go back to this.”

As Natasha saw the former walking away, she wondered what will come out of her vow or this mess that’s been created.

The following weeks passed busy for Sameera. She threw herself in work and personal improvement as if it was the last thing she would ever do. She woke up before anyone and ran around the base, even when her lungs screamed at her to stop she would not. She joined other HAWKS team and got pretty good to look or treat Abhi like the leader he was- professional and polite. She passed her time in library, in game room playing pool. To become better at defending herself, she also took up self defense, the teacher being none other than Trainer Rawte. Sameera felt somewhere inside her she needed someone like him to put focus on things that matters. He was tough, no nonsense, and did not sugarcoat things like her friends did.

She also managed to successfully convince Disha that she was over Abhi. That the feelings were a momentary thing. She believed her words, her heart did not. But then, she had enough of listening to her heart. Her brain takes precedence now.

Sapna put oil in her daughter’s hair and massaged the scalp as Sameera sat on the ground, moaning in relief. She looked happier, relieved to be back, but there was something off about her that she could not put her finger on.

But then, she had news.

“Maa, just stay here.” Sameera pulled her close as she held onto her arm until their heads were touching. Their bodies swayed back and forth as she demanded like a child, “I will miss you when you are gone.”

“That’s the plan.” At the former’s frown, Sapna informed with a wide grin, “I took transfer here from the NGO. I actually signed the lease . . . “ Before she could finish it, Sameera pasted a big kiss on her cheek, making her laugh out loud.

“I can shift here with you if you want.”

“It’s fine, Bacha. You can visit whenever you can.” Sapna sat up to resume the massage, “Anyways, you speak so much about base. What about Abhi, how is he?” The young man had vanished from her sight since Sameera had returned to base- it can be because their paths crossed only because of hospital, but the older woman wanted to know about him.

“He is fine.” Sameera tried to keep her tone flat, “His girlfriend arrived.”

“Girlfriend?” Sapna frowned, “Really?”

“Yes.” Clearing her throat, she added, “Everybody knew.”

“Did you?” Sapna wondered how can she be so wrong at seeing things. She wondered till what extent things moved for her daughter and how much she was hurt.

“I do now.” Then Sameera turned and gave a smile, and she relaxed. Whatever it was, had ended. Her daughter remained unfazed.

Sameera looked at the mirror in the night and wondered when she had become so good at fooling people.

On the other side in Rathore house, things were not going that good. Abhi got no chance to warn his mother about Shikha, and unfortunately the young woman had dropped by unceremoniously, making Smita’s mood foul. Then started constant talks of engagement and marriage. Smita got no opportunity to talk to Abhi as he avoided the topic as if it will vanish by doing so. Suryakant was not particularly up for this family drama, leaving it to his wife to handle it. She was bursting with rage and irritation, and it all come to an end one evening. Yelling at Abhi about how he is ruining his life and she don’t want any part in this, the older woman rushed to her room in tears, leaving her son in misery.

The saddest part was they all knew why he was doing this, and yet Smita can’t support him in this. Abhi understood the emotions- she wanted to see him happy, but she can’t accept his decision.

Walking aimlessly around base in the late night, Abhi come to a halt when he saw Sameera sitting up on a half wall, looking out at the rain and thunderstorm outside. He remembered the first time he saw her, that stormy night with thunderstorm- she did not know yet. Maybe some day he can tell him how she gave him strength even when she did not know him. But that moment will need to wait, or might never come. Since the night in party things were distant between the two of them. He could not meet her eyes, she did not want to waste any second with him outside their professional interactions. He deserved it, but it hurt too.

Sameera’s eyes went wide with surprise, clearly not expecting the Boss to be around at this time, “Hello.” She greeted. Abhi just stared at her for a while, not returning the greeting.

“I guess I should,” She was about to jump down and leave but he jerked in response, hands outstretched as if to reach out, but then fisted them in his sides.

“No, wait! Stay.” Sameera froze at the desperation in his tone, looking at his face properly for the first time in weeks. He looked troubled, and she wanted to ask badly, then wondered if she had the right. She hated that she can’t behave like earlier with him, especially when he was not at fault with the matter in her heart.

“Can I . . . “ He gestured at the place beside her and she nodded. He sat beside her quietly, just staring at the ground in silence. She did not know how much time passed, but then he was leaning on her shoulder, with a deep exhale, he had fallen asleep on her.

Sameera did not move an inch until he was awake, thinking when was the last time he slept or what happened to make him so upset. Sometimes, she analysed questions in her head, or things they did before and tried to categorize those in the boxes of what friends do, and what friends don’t. She almost crossed those lines and did not want to make the same mistakes. Should she ask? Will that be intruding? How much closeness is okay? How much distance is fine?

Will things go back the way they were before or it will be a new start?

Abhi woke up after a while, staring up at her face with bleary, sleepy eyes. Sameera came out of her thoughts, gazing into his eyes deeply.

“I fell asleep?” At her nod he sat up, embarrassed and surprised, “For how long?”

“I am not sure.” She admitted.

“And you sat still? Your back must hurt.” Bothered at his slip and show of weakness, he looked away, jumping down from the wall, “Come, let’s walk you to the hostel.”

“It’s okay.”

“No.” She knew he won’t budge, so with a sigh she moved. Nobody said a word as they walked and reached till the hostel. Nodding silent goodbyes to other, Sameera walked into her hostel, telling herself each moment not to look back.

She did not.

Abhi stared until she vanished inside and he stood there for several minutes, almost hoping she would come out. It was useless, it was foolish. He don’t get miracles like this.

He already got his wish once.

Shikha sharpened her nails as she listened to the phone conversation with her modelling agency and a potential client, chiming in between when it needed. Outside of her room, she could see her Mom pacing up and down as she talked into phone, writing down things in notepad and thinking deeply.

Her Mother wanted to marry her off as soon as Abhi and her became a thing, but Shikha was not particularly up for marriage yet. She had a flourishing modelling career in abroad and wanted to see the world, but she did not mind it much when Sunaina suggested engagement. It never came to reality though- between her busy shoots and constant travelling, and Abhi’s fast rising through airforce ranks.

But this time, she wanted to seal it. Her Mom was delighted and made plans as soon as possible.

There was something off the moment she arrived, she could feel it in her core and yet could not point out what was it. Her Father was delighted, Abhi was courteous and amazing as always, her soon to be Father in law was nice. Smita aunty was not much for people but she was okay too, and yet Shikha sometime felt as if she saw resentment in her eyes, which was ridiculous. Smita aunty never did anything wrong, she loves Abhi and will always support his decisions.

Or it might be that girl, Sameera.

Shikha had casually mentioned Sameera once in front of Sunaina and was surprised by the venom in her tone, the tightness in her eyes. She tried to be casual but the former was quite forthcoming, explaining in great detail how Abhi was always in trouble with the girl- there was an almost court marshal, getting stuck in jungle in the dead of night and finally, when they both got shot. Her Father never brought work home, and yet Sunaina knew everything that goes on in base, which was always quite impressive to Shikha. When Abhi was in hospital, she video called her mom everyday and was in contact with Abhi through constant messages, and was very annoyed when he would not response properly. Apparently he was busy grieving the girl who was in coma for months, and also helped her and her Mother in many ways, going as far as to change doctors and pushing the base to release the medical funds quickly for her treatment.

He did everything he could to save her life.

Shikha was called ice queen in college, but she disagreed. She was confident in what she had with sure knowledge about things. She understood care and human emotions, and yet there was something off about it. There was a sense of danger in her Mom’s tone, which she did not convey, yet came through the words.

But Abhi is hers, right?

Sameera looked up and smiled as Veer sir joined her in the library. The man gave a tiny smile, and she excitedly started to tell about an old mission the base had handled, him wisely informing her details which was not mentioned in records, making her eyes sparkle.

Things changed post coming back, but this was a good change. Veer sir was open, treated her like a family person about whom he wanted to know and shared his thoughts. They often met in library and discussed about old cases or talk about training the HAWKS are going through. Sameera loved old tales of airforce officers and Veer had so many in his personal collection, and his heart swelled in pride whenever she was thrilled about a story she heard from him.

This could had been his life. Sameera could have grown up with these stories, and yet she was hearing them from a senior she called ‘Sir’. At times he wanted to hold her hands and tell her he is her father, but held himself back each time. Maybe once she knew him better, could see him as a mentor and father figure, he could say it. The idea was probably stupid and came from his fear, but this is what he got.

He came to know from Sameera that Sapna was going to stay here. Happiness burst through his chest, making his insides warm, and no matter how many times he tried to tell himself that things were different, he had a family now, the heart won’t stop. But he knew his limits- he would be linked with her through Sameera, and Sapna will always be the first woman he ever loved, and will always do so. From a distance.

Veer sir left for an upcoming meeting and Samrat sneaked up on Sameera from behind, making her jump, “Ooh, trying to create impression on the Big boss, are you Sam?”

Sameera made a face as he put an arm over her shoulder, both of them walking together, “Pretty sure the first impression is ruined. Remember, I had gotten a special class.”

“First impression is bullshit. You know the person and then you make judgement on them.” Grinning down at her, he added, “He looks quite impressed. You charmed him.” At her snort, he protested, “It’s true! You are doing great on papers and your personality is . . . “ He made a kissing sound, making her look away as she laughed.

“Liar.”

“I will never lie to you.” He vowed seriously, then a smile broke out, “You are working so hard. You are surpassing my flying hours. Are you trying to start a competition?”

“Do you want to?” She challenged.

“Game on.” Both shook hands, “Like pool, I will win.”

She rolled eyes, “That was once.”

“I won.”

Amidst the bickering, they did not notice Shikha had walked near them, staring at them in amusement. Samrat let out a mock gasp when he saw her, and yet Shikha noticed, his arm never left from Sameera’s shoulder.

“Looks who’s here!” Sameera gave a side eye at the theatrics, both the women looking at each other in solidarity.

“Hello.” She greeted her politely, looking down immediately before ducking down from Samrat’s arm, “I need to leave. Self defense.”

Samrat pulled a face, “Just going to leave me here with the lovely . . . “

“Shut up.” Trying to give him a stern gaze, Sameera turned to Shikha, “He is just . . . “

“I will handle him.” Moving her fingers, she bid a bye, staring at Sameera until she had left.

It was probably the politeness- polite is always fake. Or maybe how she don’t really look into her eyes as she speak. Or how she left both times- might be co-incidence, might not be. But it just grated on Shikha’s nerve, and she don’t like to be irritated for no reason. She needed to find out what it is and end it.

She smiled politely as Samrat laid on his charm thick.

The base was buzzing with activity as a planned convoy of airforce officers from all the way of Canada arrived for a India-Canadian army exercise. It will go on for three days, and as usual with everything else, the HAWKS got to have them first. The visitors were all experienced, with impressive hours of flight schedules and aircrafts they had handled, and each one of them learned a lot from them.

They all had just returned from a 5 hour long schedule of flying and settled in cafeteria, laughing and talks flowing freely. The Canadian counter parts were all polite and gentleman, had many stories and jokes to share. They all ate and laughed, and soon talks went to their family lives. It was all fun and good until almost all of them left, except Sameera and one officer from their visitor party.

“So, is there any fun places around?” The accent was so thick that Sameera had to think hard before understanding what the man was saying. He was 5 years or so older than her on paper, but had impressive physique and experiences as he towered over her authoritatively, even through his posture was relaxed.

She smiled while answering, getting up to leave, “I won’t know much about that.”

“That’s a shame, as I was wondering where to take you this evening.”

What? Before she could process that, a familiar hand was over her shoulder, “Sam!” Samrat greeted the two, and she watched with increasing incredulity at his face as the expression soured, “Veer sir wants to see us. Let’s go.” He dragged her out of the cafe. It was only after a long time Sam realized they were not heading towards Veer sir’s cabin or towards base, but away from it.

“Where are we going?”

“Veer sir did not call us.” He turned to her with a teasing smile, “At first glance you have them smitten. Impressive.”

“What was he saying?” She was outraged- not that healthy flirting is not good, but they were all here for work and they were visiting. Besides, whatever hint she even gave to the men to make them think it was okay to ask her out.

“Asking you for a date, of course.” At her look his expression turned serious, “Thought you might not appreciate it. I saw him approaching and ran away from Abhi, what he must be thinking.”

But she did not hear that part, her mood irritated. It’s like her trying to hide feelings for a man which won’t be appreciated, the revelation of him being in a relationship, the gruesome regime, and now this, opened a floodgate of emotions. She had to look down, gritting teeth and take deep breaths to calm herself down.

“Damn. I did not think you will react like this.” All the good mood vanished in the air, “Did he make you uncomfortable? Tell me.”

She shook head, ready to walk away from all of it, “It’s fine. Unexpected, but nothing I can handle.” Once she was convincing enough to make Samrat think all was okay, she took her leave, heading for her room. She was successful to lie and deceive someone close to her again, and she needed to let it all out.

Sameera was having mock self defense training with Ali when Abhi arrived silently, just quietly watching the two. Ali greeted him with a wave, and Sameera turned- it was a wrong time, both for her heart and the general situation. Naturally, she got hurt.

Abhi was beside her in a lighting before she can even whimper in pain. Blood flew freely and Ali looked at panic, but was back to attention when the Boss barked for first aid. He handed it over, and hastily left the room with apologies on his lips as Abhi ushered him out.

“Stop moving.” At his stern order, Sameera kept her eyes closed, sighing softly. Abhi took the moment to simply stare at her- it feels like a lifetime he did that. He was too used to his alone time with her, first with Gira, then in the hospital. This was separation anxiety, and yet he did not know any better.

He started cleaning the blood and put on a bandaid over her nose, internally battling with himself. The moment Shikha arrived, he steeled his heart and told himself- this is it. It’s over. He mentally called Sameera and whatever this relationship they had goodbye and tried to become the old Abhimanyu. The man who was professional, who was stern, who hid his heart and emotions and did what was supposed to be done. But before he did not have her in his life, and now that he had it was increasingly becoming difficult to continue this charade. His soul ached when he kept himself away and only felt comfort when he was beside her. He claimed to be her friend and told her to trust him, yet hid his reality, causing her pain. No wonder she was so distant and formal with him.

He don’t want to even go back in that moment when he felt he saw something in her eyes.

“Can I ask you something?” The words tumbled out of him without any control. Sameera’s eyes flew opened, confused at the whirlwind of emotions in his eyes.

He should not do this. This will only hurt him either way, and in her eyes he will fall down lower. And yet, the seed of doubt Shikha had bowed in his mind won’t let him rest. She informed him about her observation and possibility of a match between the best friends, and he was now starting to see their interactions in new light.

Samrat was legendary in base- he was smart, he was driven, but he was also a big flirt. He always had wild stories about his girlfriends and flings, and yet he never treated Sameera with anything but respect. When they had jungle mission, he helped her in each steps, ready to go back to jungle to find her after days of physical challenges. He always sticks by her, they have their internal jokes and looks that they share, he teases her but won’t let anyone else treat her less. Sameera care for him too- of course she does. She sent him to leave even if that meant she could be in grave danger and fall even more sick. She wanted to him to win.

Today, Samrat was the only one who saw the officer from visitor group, and they way he wrapped arm around her, took her away, the physical comfort and absolute trust- truth to be told, Abhi was not jealous. If something is not meant to be his, there is no point to dwell on the same. It was like a sad realization that maybe she had someone better in her corner. If she got her happy story, maybe Abhi can draw comfort from the same. If she is happy, if there is a possibility, he will be too.

At her silent nod, Abhi asked softly, “If you fall in love with someone, you will tell me, right?”

She took a while to answer, no doubt stumped at the question which came out of nowhere, “Why would you ask me that?” A part of her was scared too- she hoped she was not that transparent. And love? That was a big word, especially when she won’t label the almost even when she was alone, to her own heart.

“Just wanted to know.” With a small, sad smile, Abhi took another cotton ball to clear her face, “Since I am your best friend.” She called him that back in hospital and that was a memory he will cherish till the end, “If you like someone, if you start to love some, please tell me. Doesn’t matter if it’s from the same team, like Samrat . . “ His hand stilled abruptly. Sameera held on to his wrist tightly, her eyes suddenly spitting fire.

“How dare you?” She had enough in that moment. How dare he make the assumption, especially when she was still nursing a heart break? And how off the mark he was, but he got to sit there and look at her with all the hurt of world and ask her that. How can she answer that truthfully, and how dare he to assume.

He was taken aback at the look of warning in her eyes, his throat suddenly dry, “I am sorry if I offended you.”

She kept staring at him with the same look for a while, her grip on him tight, “You are my friend. My senior. My leader and my boss. I respect you a lot, you are one of the most important people in my life. I would appreciate if we end this, right here.”

He nodded, understanding if he pushes this, he will lose the last remaining part of her, “I understand. And I am sorry.”

She did not respond to it, leaving his wrist abruptly to fall on his lap.

Sameera just could not forget whatever happened in the span of a half day, not when the visitors left, not when HAWKS fell back to their same pattern until they were too exhausted to even move. She juggled her time between visiting her Mother, base, Veer sir and the library. She did not know if she was imagining things or things were actually heading for worst. She visited Veer sir’s residence and had this cold vibe coming from his wife, Sunaina, and Shikha. The latter was all smile and inquisitive, and yet she felt something shimmering underneath all the questions, especially when she asked about Abhi. Sam was still not over the god knows what back in gym with her Boss and avoided all questions by being too polite. Her Mother noticed her sour expression and asked, and once again it was about Abhi. Even Ali made an off handed comment about how Abhi don’t spend time with them much. The constant talk of Abhi grated on her nerves till the point she wanted to scream. To get him out her system, she took upto running in the early morning- even panting and her lungs burning, she only had one plea, one determination, one thought. Get out of my mind, Abhi.

One day Natasha asked her if she was okay. They were not close or anything, and yet she could not lie to her. Probably because the other woman had witnessed her breakdown on the night of party.

“Trying to move past.” At that, Natasha gave a small, sad smile, making her confused.

“If there was nothing, there should not be anything to move by. If there is something . . “

“Then what?” Sam asked almost immediately, and felt her inside heating up with the prolonged silence from the other side.

“Then you need to ask if you can.”

Things were not any better on Abhi’s side, but at least he had a form of distraction. Jamal Sheikh, a wanted terrorist he had helped to catch back in his early air force days, got a date for court hearing after 4 years in jail and the government was buzzing with it. A wanted man in over ten countries, head of a deadly terrorist group he had founded and grew, the fifty something man was caught when he tried to bomb a military air base near Rajasthan. Veer sir was visiting there back in the day and Abhi was posted, and that was the case which changed his course of fate. His brilliant deduction, sharp planning and quick thinking led them to capture Sheikh, and Veer realized what a wonderful asset this young man can be in their intelligence team. Hence, he was transferred to this current base and personally groomed by the senior officer.

In the years of his own personal life drama, Abhi did not really have any time to think about the man, but he knew this- Sheikh had vowed to punish him when he was sent to jail, and he requests to meet him every time his lawyer visits him. He had this uncanny feeling around him, not unlike Muzammil if he thought. Maybe that’s what with people like him- mass murderers. They have no soul and they exist only to hurt.

Intelligence agencies such as RAW and DIA was already keeping an eye on activities in case some old enemies decide to do something to break Sheikh out of jail, and naturally the air intelligence fell on HAWKS. Veer sir personally briefed the team, laying out the past details and course of action. The team were shocked at the personal enmity of their Leader, proud of how he came to be here, and determined to see this through. Once done, they all shook hand with Abhi and walked out, buzzing with energy to do something for him.

Sameera stood in front of him, nobody uttering a word. She was nervous, he could tell. Internally, he was not any better but he could not afford to show it to anyone. He was supposed to guide a team, not crawl and hide in shadows. Besides, they were going to get a lot of help. They will be fine.

“Are you in danger?” Sam asked after a long time. She can’t bear that thought- despite everything. Him getting hurt will be unfathomable.

Abhi thought for a second before answering sincerely, “No.” When her worried expression did not go away, he added gently, “All of these are just extra precautions in case his gang members tries to pull something.”

“Veer sir thinks something is going to happen, unless he would not have told us.” She replied, nervously looking away. She wanted to take his hand, look into his eyes and say something comforting, and yet she could do no such things. The lines were not correctly drawn, she don’t want to make any mistake and cost her heart.

“Hey, look at me.” But he held her hand, and at the soft tone of his voice turned to gaze into his eyes. He can’t bear her troubled face- he was never okay whenever she was in pain, “It will pass. All will be fine.”

She squeezed his hold right back and only managed to give a nod.

HAWKS has taught all of them a lot- about physical and mental strength, team work, determination. It has also taught about how people can be cruel and downright monsters, and that sometimes they needed ammunition to finish them. Samrat particularly enjoyed whenever they had shooting classes, knew each types of gun used and was quick to detach and load them. Disha was second best- she said there was a quiet comfort in the mechanical aspect of it. Sam knew and used, but she did not like it. Never felt she or any of them actually would need it, until Gira happened and she saw that man dead, killed by Abhi. Even after that, she had this foolish believe that maybe it was always for Abhi, being the leader and such. The rest of them never have to carry this practical lesson to work.

Now that she sees her team mates walking out of base, she was not sure anymore.

Sheikh, whom Ali had nick named arch enemy of their leader, was going to court today and HAWKS had volunteered to give the police and armed forces company. They all knew technically they should not be there, and it was Veer sir pushing so that they can be around Abhi, and no body objected. Not like any of them had choice, per say. Samrat and Abhi were supposed to be in the same van with the terrorist, and the situation alone made Sam uneasy. She wanted to say something comforting, give an assured smile to her best friend and Boss, but she did nothing. She was going to stay in base and communicate with rest, Ali will be on ground working with tech teams with Natasha co-ordinating. Disha is going to work with various team so that the transportation back and forth is smooth, and without any surprises.

Abhi had to steel his heart when he saw the older man walking towards them, surrounded by chains and guards. He did not even blink when the former gave a lazy smile full of promises. From the corner of his eyes Samrat shifted uneasily, but one look from the Boss and he tried to reign it in.

“We meet after ages.” The man started to speak once the van and following details started moving. His hair and moustache had gotten longer, there were some more lines on his face. Gone were stylish clothes he used to wear. If Abhi wanted to speak, he would have said that the prison striped suits him better.

“Are not you going to say something?” He was almost disappointed. Samrat squirmed in his seat, increasingly uneasy with this man who wont look away from Abhi and how the latter had become monk, staring far away as if it held answers from the universe. Sighing in disappointment, he glanced at the other people in the van- Samrat, two guards sitting on his both side, before looking at Abhi again.

“Saw the news. Congratulation on the impending engagement.” Again, there was no reaction from Abhi. Sheikh turned to Samrat who sat up straight in alarm, “Saw her too. The lady officer who was shot. I hope she is . . “ Before he could finish that sentence, Abhi had lunged toward him, his fingers around his neck. As the others held onto him, with horror Samrat witnessed that old man did not look scared, instead almost happy to get this reaction.

“Stop talking.” Abhi growled. Logically, he knew Sameera was nowhere near them. Sheikh can’t even be near 2 feet of her. And yet, the mere mention of her triggered something primal in him. Shaking off the hold of others, he slumped on his seat and proceeded to glare at the monster till they reached court.

Disha was talking to Sam as officers kept an eye on the movement, “It’s going to be fine, Sam. Relax.” But they both knew she is not going to until Abhi and Samrat had returned, “They reached court. The session have started.”

“Yes, got the news.” Sameera ran hand over her hair and tightly pulled bun, stomach in pit as she felt something was going to go wrong horribly, “I have this bad feeling, you know.”

“Why don’t you call him?” Even if she can’t see him, Disha could tell she was shaking head. Since that night in party, they did not talk about the subject. Disha wanted to apologize, ask how she was, but Sam kept herself so busy that none can reach her.

“Can you just. . . tell them to be careful?” Disha was about to answer, when Natasha walked toward her. She put the phone on speaker and after a few more minutes of chat of trio, she disconnected.

“Sam is worried sick. Said she has a bad feeling.”

Natasha raised eyebrows, then shrugged, “This is a tensed situation. A terrorist who is in jail because of Abhi? From morning itself I got at least 10 intel on situation which might arise during the moving.” The former winced at that. After a while, Natasha took out her phone.

“Can’t be too careful.” Muttering, she dialed a number, “Abhi?”

Sheikh got no bail, predictably, and they all returned. This time, Abhi and Samrat did not escort the man, actually the whole team was changed for guarding him. Two vehicles moved before the van carrying Sheikh did, and Abhi’s followed after three more vehicles passed. By the time they had reached jail, Ali had called the duo in hysterics, saying the other team was under attack by masked men with guns. Samrat had jumped out of the SUV once it screeched into halt, ready to shout at others for help- then he turned to Abhi.

Almost like a movie, a black police van pulled up. Sheikh came out with a different sets of guards that Samrat swore he hadn’t seen earlier. The man looked murderous- if looks could kill, they all would have been ashes by then.

“Well played, Officer.” He muttered, before the guards pushed him to move ahead. Shocked, Samrat turned to his Boss, but he chose to say nothing.

Once they all returned to the base, Veer sir praised Abhi for the good work he did, and he in turn thanked and praised his team for being there for him and the mission. It was then revealed, the switcheroo- apparently, halfway through the journey Abhi had suggested the guards to shift Sheikh to another vehicle and change guards. The vehicle along with an unmarked SUV moved in a different route than rest, and when terrorists attacked, they escaped unharmed. The police and guards were ready too- the enemies were dead. Ali was impressed with the plan, the ladies- Natasha and Disha smug, and Samrat mildly complained about not knowing about the plan.

“Great idea.” Sameera spoke softly. She had prayed for their safe return and God had granted her that. Abhi returned her smile with one of his.

“Your idea, actually.” At her frown he glanced at Natasha for a moment, “Your gut feeling was right. I chose to trust that and made the last moment plan.”

“So technically Sam gets credit.” Ali almost put an arm around her, but she ducked at the last moment, making him pout. Amending, she extended a hand and he shook it, “Good job.”

“You know what, we should celebrate.” Samrat announced, standing closer to his best friend who gave him a knowing look, “This feels like a long never ending year with Gira, the hospitals and now the creepy old terrorist dude. Samrat needs a break, and he invites you all to his party.”

“And where is that?” Abhi asked. The former turned to him with a sly smile.

“Just wait.”

2 days later on a Saturday night, the HAWKS gathered in the hip club of the city. The girls were dressed to the T- Sameera was always more comfortable in indian, but for tonight she amended in simple black jeans and top- the boys were groomed in the hopes of wooing the opposite sex. Ali even asked Samrat for tips, and the latter promised to teach him one or two so that he can use them on Natasha. The mood was good until Abhi entered, and to their surprise Shikha was on his arms.

Ali felt the atmosphere change instantly- like the old easy vibe whenever they are together just went out. It was further cemented when he looked at the girls. Disha had forced a smile, Sameera won’t look at Shikha for more than two seconds, and Natasha was like a brick of ice. Granted, the latter woman was naturally aloof, but he had seen her warming up to them. For some reason she had gone back to shell, and he wondered what was about Shikha that made the girls uneasy. Then he turned to look at Samrat- maybe it was a girl thing. Sure enough, just like with every other girl, Samrat had laid the charm thick. But it was not crude or out of line, because she was Abhi’s. To break the awkwardness and clear his own head, he gulped down his drink and almost dragged Disha away for dance, much to her protest.

Abhi had excused himself not more than five minutes after they had arrived. Shikha had arrived in his apartment to spend time, and then tagged along for the get together. He did not know why he felt guilty to bring her, or why he wanted to keep her away. Work was his sanctuary, but she was going to be part of his life soon, officially. It’s not fair on her to dump his issues and deprive her of rights. And yet, how many times he tell himself to accept the changes, he feels more suffocated to the point that all he wants is to scream and run, far far away.

Unlike Ali, who understood yet ignored, Shikha was not someone who ignored nonverbal cues. She reads people’s faces and body language, something passed down to her genetically from her Mother. Now it was confirmed what she had felt in the party- Sameera can’t tolerate her. And due to sorority sister bullshit, her girlfriends hate her too. But she had a reputation to maintain, so she would smile extra sweetly and compliment them, ask them questions even though she cared less. Two can play the game, right?

And yet, it pricked at her. She did not understand what she had done wrong by trying to socialize with her soon to be fiance’s colleagues, or where had she gone wrong in her behavior. When Abhi returned, she tried to force herself to focus on him more. And yet, nothing worked- more than the girls coldness, she was hurt by Abhi. How he was beside her but he was not there fully.

How his eyes looked at Sameera, and how she looked back.

F uck, that was too much to bear for one night. So Shikha Veer Pratap Singh did the childish mistake of getting drunk, dragging an unwilling Abhi on floor and tried to make out with him in front of his colleagues and strangers. Like a sick, twisted way he should be humiliated too, like she was since this evening. To show Sameera that she can get the looks, but the man was all hers. The next morning, she will think about this night and groan, hide face in shame, but tonight she did not care. It went to the extent even Samrat dropped the flirty act and stared at his colleagues in awkwardness.

The night was ruined.

Abhi apologized profusely to his team mates even though they tried to soothe back- the boys were joking about alcohol limits, the girls were sympathetic. Inside, he was in rage but all he could do was exhale in frustration, see that his colleagues were leaving safely and then drop Shikha home who was mumbling incoherently in her semi conscious state, sitting in his car. He can’t even look at her- she had never behaved like this. A part of him wondered is this why she came, to humiliate him in front of the others? Shikha always had issues with the lack of attention from his side, of course the fault is entirely hers, but he had never expected her to take this to public. His face burnt in shame, what his colleagues might think- what will Sunaina aunty say? The interrogation will not end, and there is still Veer sir and his mom left.

A car pulled in and Natasha got in, Sameera in tow. Abhi started to apologize again as the latter turned.

“Abhi, stop.” She sighed, feeling as tired as him and for entirely different reasons. She could cry but tears wont fall, and she had no right to do so, “It’s okay. This is not your fault. Please don’t apologize.”

“I never expected her to behave like this.” His fingers went through hair. Sameera peeked behind him to glance at Shikha, then looked at him with a smile.

“It’s okay, Abhi. Please take care of yourself and her, okay?” He could only stare in awe and nod slowly. Satisfied, she gave one small smile of hers, and got inside the car.

Abhi kept staring until the car vanished. How can she be this compassionate- he had hurt her again and again, distanced himself and came closer, and yet each time she took him in. Her kindness and big heart truly knows no bound. Tonight was ruined but not one look of irritation or strong word came on her lips. How can people like this exist, and why Abhi, who had sinned so much, got this opportunity to know her? In that moment it did not really matter that she was not his- that she existed, was a gift in in itself.

Shikha noticed her stare even in her state, and smiled bitterly as she closed her eyes.

Once the team was back, the girls made a subconscious decision to huddle in Sameera and Disha’s room. The duo were in their different moods- Disha quietly observing her best friend and Sameera trying and failing to forget the scene happened in pub. Natasha did not even bother giving a valid excuse- her roommate snore, apparently.

“What a shit night it was.” She muttered, then gave a look at the other’s surprised expression, “Come on, we all knew it went to dogs.”

“Agreed.” Disha cast an apologizing look at Sameera who sighed, “I still can’t believe, you know?”

“Must be the drinks.” At that, Natasha snorted, making Sam frown, “What?”

“You try to see better in people. Always do. But really, Sam, sometimes people just suck and you need to careful.” Her expression turned serious, “I am telling you. Take it as warning. You need to be careful with Shikha.”

She tried to laugh it off, “Careful? Like . . . she is . . . a normal person.”

Disha seemed to agree, “Don’t you think it’s a bit harsh? She got drunk.”

“She tagged along with Abhi at a place she had no business to be present. Do you really think she was even 1 % interested in us or the place? She came for Abhi. And here is the kicker- why come? When you have no interest in his colleagues? To keep an eye on him?”

Sameera shifted in discomfort, “Maybe we are going ahead too much.” Natasha glared at her in disbelieve, “Besides, not like we are going to be friends or we will see each other everyday, right? She is Abhi’s girlfriend.”

“She will be the wife soon.” The former started at that, her face blank for a moment.

“Our lives are different. There is no threat from her, not to me.”

“What about your heart?” Natasha was ruthless, “What about the look in your eyes when you see her? And when your heart going to be as cold as ice that it won’t hurt? Hell, Sam, you can’t even meet her eyes. Don’t you think she has picked up on that? Or maybe that’s the reason she came tonight.”

Sameera’s face became white as sheet and Disha intervened, “I don’t think there was anything serious.”

“Disha, please.” The former glanced at the duo, “Let’s not kid ourselves.”

An eerily silence followed post this lash out. Disha did not know what the former was trying to achieve here- even if Sam had feelings for Abhi, there was nothing to do about it. He had a long term partner and by the look of it, he was happily committed. She had already made a mistake by encouraging Sam back in hospital, and she will always be guilty of having a hand in breaking her heart. But now, Sam was trying to move on. Tonight was unfortunate, but she will move past, like she had moved past the initial shock of Shikha.

“Even if there was anything serious, what she can do?” Disha spoke slowly, eyes faraway as the duo stared, “When feelings are one sided, you are meant to suffer.”

Sam sensed the bitterness in her tone and had an inkling what it was all about, but Natasha beat her into it, almost a mocking smile, “Try to pretend to be happy, I guess. Like you and Sam doing.” Disha looked surprised at the answer and the former gave an obvious look, “I am not blind, Disha. And let me set this straight tonight, the feelings are not reciprocated.”

“Do you know . . . “ Sam asked.

“Of course I do, Sam. The only entertaining thing besides Abhi and your tension was seeing her pine away for a dumb man who did not know where he should head.” Rolling eyes, she leaned back in her chair, “Ali can flirt and make eyes however long he can, but there will never be anything from my side. And it’s not because of girl code or some other exuse.”

“You like the attention.” Disha accused.

“I like the banter. I admire his persistence. But I don’t like how I hurt him again and again and he comes back. The only thing is left for me to be cruel to him, and I am not doing that.”

“Why not?” Sam asked, “Why not give in?”

“I don’t see him that way, Sam.”

“Maybe you can try.”

“Can you try if someone else asks you out?” Natasha was satisfied at the pale look of former, “Thought so.” After a while, she muttered softly, “Besides, you need to have heart to give it away to someone. Ice queen, remember?”

Sam closed eyes in sadness, “I am . . .”

“It’s not about me, and it’s not about her.” The former dismissed with a stern voice, “It started with you, and let me say it again Sam. Be careful about Shikha. I have a gut feeling, and I want you to trust me on this. There is something off about her, and you are dealing with many things. Let’s not add her on the pile. Okay?”

Natasha won’t look away until she nodded, satisfied with the resolution.

Sam thought about her colleague’s words alot, trying to find out what ‘off’ thing she felt and how Natasha saw Shikha, yet found nothing amiss in her own POV. But she was sure in one thing- their paths won’t cross much, so Shikha can’t be a threat to herself. The biggest threat right now was her own feelings.

It became even more awkward when Shikha came to apologize the next day, looking radiant in her dress and heels even though half her face was hidden behind sunglasses, “The sun.”

“The hangover.” Sam countered good naturedly and both of them sat on a bench on the garden.

“I am so, so sorry. Abhi had given me an earful, and then there was Mom and Dad. I am embarrassed, I can’t even put it in words.” The former shook head at the apology, “I was being an absolute idiot. I need to apologize to all of you, but you especially.” She frowned at that.

“Why me?”

“I heard Abhi said Samrat was planning for the get together for days, to celebrate the village mission and your recovery. Samrat was so excited, wanted to have a good time, and I came and ruined it all.” The words were innocent enough, but they left Sameera confused and slightly irritated at the underlying implication.

“It was for all. He is a good friend.”

Shikha smiled as if the former was trying to hide an obvious thing, “He is a good guy. Aside for the flirting.”

“I apologize if he went overboard.”

“No, today is my day.” Shikha squeezed her hand, surprising her with the sudden touch, “I am so sorry to ruin it all. Hope you will forgive me.”

“There is nothing to forgive, really.” At her look Sam sighed, “It’s okay. Apology accepted, I guess.”

Then Shikha almost pleaded to have a lunch, and she had to agree- and she was honest enough to admit to herself it was cause Shikha was Abhi’s partner and Veer sir’s daughter. The eating started innocent enough= Shikha sharing about her modeling career in abroad and asking about how Sameera entered here, but with increasing time the talks went to direction of how she knew Samrat and how she became such good friend of Abhi. Sameera did not want to talk about Abhi to her- it felt too sacred, so Samrat it was. It dawned onto her that somehow Shikha feels the two are almost together, just need a nudge in right direction.

But clearing this doubt was time consuming, and Shikha was persistent. So the officer just forced a smile and repeated, “He is my best friend.”

“Friendship is so important, you know. Even Abhi and I started as friends. Facebook actually, can you imagine?” She laughed, and honestly Sam can’t picture the rule abiding, occasionally soft man spending anytime having a social media account and chatting. She was drawn to the story, how Abhi and Shikha became facebook friends, how they used to chat all day long, and how during the death of his friend in airforce training academy, they met for the first time and has been together since. Sameera realized this friend was probably the same friend Abhi had shared about, but was distracted when Shikha pulled her phone out and showed them their chats.

Sameera could not bear, almost as if she was intruding, “That is lovely.”

“Now mister don’t even call me once in a whole day.” The former huffed, “I swear, you should never give Samrat attention at once. Make them wait, cause once they get you, they forget you.”

Just as Sameera was going to clear the air cause frankly, it was becoming too much, her pager beeped. It was time for routine flying session. Bidding a goodbye to Shikha, she started walking towards the direction of locker room, feet carrying her as fast as she could. With increasing moment, her temper rose- she remembered that evening in Gym when Abhi tended to her wound and asked her the very same question. Relationship and all is fine, but how dare he goes to Shikha and speaks about it when she had told him to end that? Is not it out of line to share about someone else to your partner. Also, what is this 16th Century bullshit about male friends means they has to be in love with you or there has to be romantic feelings. God knows neither Samrat nor her had ever had such thoughts in their minds.

She slammed the locker door shut as she took out her gear, Natasha raising eyes at the attitude,
”You okay?”

“No.” She walked away. The training session of two hours passed with teams communicating with each other. Sameera replied with one word and ignored Abhi’s direct questions at her. By the end, the rest of team were wary and they had two angry birds on their hands, one of them who breaths fire. Abhi always had a nasty temper.

Abhi chased her down the very same corridor where she had once asked him if she was going to be court marshaled, “Hey!” At his yell, she stopped. The senior officer was puzzled and pissed, and hurt. Just last night she was so kind to him, and now out of nowhere she was ignoring and angry at him. When he came to stand by her, Sameera won’t even look at him in eye.

“Is there any issue?”

“No.”

“Then why the hell you were throwing that attitude during training?” At his raised voice, her eyes flashed.

“And why the hell you are gossiping about my private life with people close to you?”

“Excuse me?”

“I told you Abhi, I told you that night.” She was seething- with the heartbreak, with anger, “I told you to stop. But you did not.”

“I have no idea what you are talking about.” When he took a step towards her, she moved back until he can’t even touch her with his finger tips.

“Whoever I love, have feelings for, or whoever is part of my life is none of your concern. I told you to keep it professional. Lines have blurred.” At the last words, Abhi’s inside became cold.

“Blurred how? By me sharing about my life? Or being friendly towards you?”

“Maybe both.”

“You extended the hand, remember?” He swallowed, trying to have a good look at her but she won’t give him that privilege, “I am not sure what made you regret that.”

She don’t regret that, extending hand of friendship. She had some of the most cherished memories which came out of that, and even when she is hurting now, she can’t begrudge that, “I don’t mean that.”

“Then what do you mean?” He shouted this time, frustrated and annoyed at this spat that came out of nowhere, “What I have shared about you with others? Tell me!” He demanded.

“Then why S . . . “ She almost bit on the name, “why someone close to you will insinuate there was something going on between me and someone else?”

Abhi stood up tall at that, eyes breathing fire, “You really think that low of me? Gossiping around about you?”

“How can the timing match?”

“You know what, if that’s your opinion about me, I am not going to explain.” He looked away, exhaling sharply. His insides were breaking but probably this was for their own good. If she can’t trust him, which was the one thing he had asked from her once, there was no point of this friendship. “I thank you for your time and companionship you extended to me. It’s best if we end this and be professional around each other. No dragging personal lives, no discussing past. Office hours, I am the Boss and you are my subordinate, outside office hours, there is nothing.”

Tears glistened in Sameera’s eyes but she won’t let them fall, just as stubborn as he was. He pushed for questions and now he walks away, without even answering her. So easy for him probably. Take friendship, take her heart and soul, and leave just as abruptly as he arrived.

Without answering anything, she walked away, stubbornly wiping away tears as they finally fell.

Behind her, Abhi did the same, mourning the finality of this short lived, beautiful relationship.

Abhi was almost sure that arriving of Sheikh started a chain of bad omens. He don’t really believe in bad lucks actually, but he had heard his mom a lot over the years about people who’s presence bring misfortune and various totkas to remove the effects.

He had a nagging feeling once they handled the court session of Sheikh. Veer sir was tight lipped and was gone for two days, and once he came back Abhi was immediately summoned. By the look of anger coupled with determination, he knew it can’t be good. Apparently the HAWKS are under investigation as they are suspected to have linkage with Sheikh’s group, thanks to the ambush other party had faced during the return.

Predictably, Natasha was the one to blow, “The hell, Abhi?” She respected him as leader and was friendly enough, but she never backed down to call on his bullshit or to let him know she don’t agree with something. Besides her others did not look any better, but they bit their tongue and looked at her warily.

“I am sorry, guys, but this came from up.”

“We work hard for the country and that’s how we are repaid?” She scoffed, then turned to her team mates, “You guys agree with this?”

“I don’t.” Disha sighed, looking at the two, “But not like we have any choice. The decision is made, right Abhi?”

He felt worse with each passing moment, “If that’s any consolation, even I am going to be investigated.”

At that, Natasha openly snorted, “Like you were under the threat of court marshal during Sam’s?” He bristled in that, “Come on Abhi. Let’s not pretend you are not going to walk out of this one too, cause you are a hero.”

“Natasha . . . “ The former turned to the resigned tone of Sameera’s. Her eyes flashed once more, almost wanting to say something else. It was probably the look in her eyes- warning, pleading too. She turned on her heels and marched out of the room.

The disdain carried out of the room till the cafeteria which was surprisingly empty for an afternoon. Natasha huffed and paced, muttering how unfair it was. Ali, as usual, tried to soothe her and Samrat rolled eyes at her, shaking head as he looked at Sameera.

“What’s the harm in investigating anyway?” He said, looking directly as Natasha as she turned around in disbelieve, “We are all clean, there is nothing they can find.”

“Yeah, and what about the column ‘investigation’ on the career graph, Samrat?” She bit out, taking a step towards him as he got up. Sameera tried to hold on to him gently but he made a show of hand.

“Why you are getting so hyper?”

“Well unlike you all I can’t stand behind and just go with flow.”

“Or maybe you do have something to hide.” At that sarcastic tone, her face went serious just as Sameera along with others got up.

“Excuse me?”

“That’s enough.” Sameera said, this time tugging him aside, “There was no need for those words.”

“I am sick of her going on and on about the same. What’s the issue if the higher authorities want to investigate us anyway?”

“Why should we be when it’s their intels which suck!” Natasha bellowed, “We give out blood and sweat to them. You were shot and Sam almost died twice. But it’s not enough for them!”

“But you don’t see us complaining, do you?” This time, Disha also tugged at him to back down. Sameera was shocked at his words and how cruel he was. Granted, he and Natasha always had this tension but this was no time or reason to have this fall out.

“Samrat, that’s enough. Just stop.” She spoke sternly, making him look at her with a mixture of disbelieve and anger.

“You siding with her, over me?”

“I am not siding with anyone.”

“Why won’t you say her to stop when she is the one moaning since Abhi informed us. But of course not.” He mocked, “Can’t tell the new friend the harsh truth can you? Just tell Samrat to stop.” Looking at the two of them, he shook head and left, ignoring the callings of the rest.

Sameera just looked at him stunned. They never had fights like this, maybe minor squabbles which ended in minutes. She don’t remember him being ever looking or speaking like this.

Disha put a hand on her and she turned. Ali looked as puzzled as her, Natasha looked like the worst has passed, “He will come around.”

“I am sorry, Sam.” Natasha sounded remorseful.

“What got into him?” Ali glanced at the ladies, “Let me check on him.”

“It’s not necessary, please.” Trying to shrug off, Sameera spoke. “He need to cool off.” He did not look convinced, but as usual tried to lighten the mood.

“Anyways, it’s Sam and Samsam. How long can he be pissed at her?”

The fight was least of their worries. 2 days after the revelation, the HAWKS was supposed to have a meeting with Veer sir and some higher officials from Ministry of Defence and Army. They all were present, except Natasha.

“I will go look for her.” Abhi volunteered, Ali in tow. But the officer was nowhere to be found- not in base, she did not know anyone in the city, neither her family knew about her whereabouts. She was missing, and the meeting was adjourned.

“This don’t look good.” Abhi was irritated. At times, he thinks maybe the chain of bad decisions started with him being chosen to head HAWKS. This was a team which was directly overseen by Veer sir and he just ruined the reputation of both his leader and the team. On paper, he had the best team- good, clean people, hard working and dedicated. And yet nothing went good with them.

“She is innocent, Abhi.” Ali said, sounding insulted on Natasha’s behalf.

“We will have a hard time to answer why she is gone then.”

The other officials started to go through her profile immediately- her room and things were turned upside down, people questioned, bank transactions and phone calls thoroughly checked. Apart from visits to IT department and some recent phone calls to private numbers, she was clean. But the questions remain- where is she? Why she left?

Or maybe she was coerced.

They looked through the footage of women’s boarding of early hours-Natasha looking around, and when she saw none she walked past the gate and left into unknown. There was some places around base and city she visited- sometimes with others, sometime alone. There was a cafe she used to go, shopping mall she visited, parlour she went to. Nobody knew or seen her post her vanishing.

37 hours after that, and there was no news on her. Abhi, in frustration, almost had broken the boxing dummy of base gym in half and took a long, hot shower to calm himself down and strategize. Wiping himself off, he opened his locker and took out a shirt.

And saw Sameera in the mirror, standing inside the locker room with a deer in headlight look.

His immediately response was to turn and lash out at her. Not because she entered without a sound- or maybe she did and he was just distracted. Or because she is inside Men’s locker room. But because she saw him without a shirt and of course saw the scars on his back. Nobody had seen those except doctors back when he came back from Muzammil’s capture. He did not want her horrified expression, pity would be worse.

She opened and closer her mouth several times, not sure to apologize or ask question. But then he was stalking towards her, no doubt to give an earful- they were supposed to be Boss and subordinate, and subordinates don’t walk into their Boss changing and stare at his scarred back, or ask questions. Suddenly scared, she took steps backwards until her back reached something behind- most likely the wall, but she could not look away from his intense, frightening stare.

Abhi stood so close to her that he could hear her elevated heartbeat, and could see his own reflection in her orbs. Suddenly the air, filled with anger and fear, was replaced by something else. He wondered if he was the only one feeling that as he put one hand beside her on the wall, slightly leaning towards her. Unconsciously, his gaze fell on her lips and her eyes widen, her breathing becoming erratic.

Fu ck, he swore to himself, and immediately moved back as if burnt.

“Just knock next time, would you?” He asked with a grave tone. Sameera looked down as if on cue, nodded and sprinted away as if her life was on line.

Or maybe it was her heart.

He did not ask or wonder why she was there and neither she informed, so when Abhi arrived to join his team mates, shower on and expression sealed, Disha informed him that Natasha was seen lingering near a cafe where she usually frequents. The intel says she is probably expecting someone, with a fancy dress and mask on face as the cafe celebrated it’s founder’s day with a mask themed party. They planned and dressed accordingly, going out to bring back one of their own.

They arrived, tried to mingle as yet failing to do so, their nerves on fire. Ali spotted Natasha first- of course he did. They saw her with a man, then both of them leaving the party.

“Move.” Abhi ordered, and his team rushed out. Outside, intelligence officers were guarding and kept an eye on situation. The HAWKS found the two in parking spot, and when Natasha sensed them, she swore and took off, the man with tow.

”Natasha stop!” They shouted, and then ran after her. The former two split direction and ran, Abhi, Disha along with Samrat followed her. Sameera tugged at Ali and reluctantly they followed the other man, even though priority was Natasha. They got the confirmation over the comms that they caught her, and getting renewed vigour, Ali increased his speed, caught upto the masked man and threw him on the ground, punching him in face and ripped away his mask.

Sameera frowned immediately, “He looks familiar.”

“Bring him in.” Abhi ordered in their ears, and they hauled the man to stand up and move.

Natasha sat inside an unfamiliar room as her team mates circled around her. She was found clean due to lack of evidence, but her actions puzzled them all. She refused to say anything unless they went through the man first.

Abhi along with Veer sir and other intelligence officers interrogated the man. He works in base IT department, and within hours it was established he got money from oversees two days before Sheikh’s court session. After a while, he confessed into helping the terrorist group with locations and intels so that they can break out their leader.

“You could have told us.” Ali accused. Disha glanced at his sad face and steeled inside her.

“He is right. You could have come to us.” She said.

“I am sorry guys. But I needed concrete evidence to even come to this.” Natasha said apologetically.

“How did you figure he is the one?” Samrat asked. As if on cue, Veer sir along with Abhi entered, watching the scene quietly in front of them.

“We were under investigation because we handled and knew about the plan of Sheikh mission. But we are not the only people who had access to this information. There were IT people, other support staff of base, people on the police side. Once I narrowed down, the list became smaller. I then tried to make it even concise by trying to find out who else had all the information and could do this. He was one of the people on list.”

“That’s great work.” Sameera said with smile on face. The former looked proud.

“She was in Makhira base as intelligence officer, this is nothing for her.” The team turned at the voice of their chief, Veer sir, Natasha standing up immediately, “Good work, but like Disha said, you could have come to us. Lessen the pressure from higher up.”

“I am sorry Sir.”

“Let’s not repeat this. Whatever your intention might have been.” It would be the first and last warning from him, they all knew. She nodded at that.

Abhi glanced at the Chief and then turned towards his team, “The good thing is she is clear now.”

“Us?” Samrat asked.

“They are going through us one by one. Will take time.” He looked at Natasha, “Congratulations.”

She nodded at that, “What’s taking it long?”

“Thorough looking.” Veer sir answered. “We all need to have patience and co-operate. Once it ends, none can point finger at us.”

“This reminds me,” Abhi turned to the former, “The red file you gave me on Sheikh’s security detail? I need to mail it to Defense secretary.” With that, he took off, Veer sir after a while.

The team went to their respective ways. One thing was over, but the war was about to come.

Before war, there were some reconciliations amidst the HAWKS- Samrat apologized and Natasha and him decide to be civil again. Others looked at him in expectation, but he did not glance back after the apology and left. Disha put an arm around Sameera, the latter confused and slightly hurt- maybe he needs more time. Maybe she should reach out.

Post mid night, she heard a knock at the door. It was continuous and persistent, and only a deep sleeper like Disha could have slept through that. Worried, Sameera got up from bed and opened the door a little to peek outside.

It was Samrat, dressed in a black hoodie with a sheepish smile on his face.

“What?” Her eyes widen in surprise, but before she can say anything else his palm was on her mouth, and he made her come outside, closing the door softly behind her. They walked a bit until they were under the staircase which leads to second floor, the darkness surrounding them.

“It’s late! We are in curfew time!” She whispered harshly.

“I know, I am sorry. Could not sleep without apologizing.”

“Samrat . . “ She was speechless. He squeezed her hand in return.

“I was a jerk and should have said sorry long ago. Not that hard, is it? Sorry?” When she bit her lip hard at his words to stop smiling, he held onto his both ears, “Sorry! Sorry!” She laughed outright at that, taking down his hands from his ears.

“It’s okay. Apology accepted.”

“Pakka?” He raised hand in air just like she does. Smiling, she intertwined their fingers.

“Yes. Now will you please leave? I am getting worried.”

“Yes Ma’am.” With a mock salute, he looked around then started moving, not before blowing kisses at her. Laughing at that, she put hand over mouth and looked around. Finding none in sight, she stealthily walked inside her room and closed the door.

Disha stirred a bit, “Sam?”

“It’s okay. Go back to sleep.” The former spoke softly, and she complied.

It was going good, if someone asked Sameera. Apart from the giant hole in her heart which was Abhi shaped, she had everything- the investigation will be ok, Samrat is speaking to her now, HAWKS training is going good, her flying hours were on top. But she forgets sometime, that like Abhi, her bad timing started the moment she applied and was selected for this program.

2 days after Natasha returned, Sameera was summoned to Veer sir’s cabin. Everyone looked worried at that, but Ali said it might be to inform her that she was clean. She agreed with him mentally and started to head toward the senior’s cabin.

The vibe inside instantly made her realize Ali was wrong. Veer sir looked worried- just like he was when Natasha went missing. She looked at Abhi in fear- he looked murderous, if that was possible to name a expression in such way. The moment he sensed her, he looked up sharply, and despite not knowing anything, her heart sank in fear.

Veer sir cut right through the BS and asked, “Where were you two nights ago around 1.44am?”

Sameera frowned, because that question sounded odd and obvious, “Um, the boarding Sir. In my room.”

“Really?” Abhi bit out, ignoring Veer sir’s soft, ‘Abhi’,” Cause evidence says something else.”

“What evidence?”

In response, he walked near Sir’s desk and turned his laptop towards her. It was a CCTV footage of night, at first there was nothing, the corridors were empty. Then she saw herself, and she instantly realized the moment it had captured- she had bade Samrat goodbye and returned to her room.

She was instantly relieved, because she can explain this.

“Why the hell you were outside after curfew? Don’t you know it’s against the rules?” He was almost shouting at her, and pretty sure if the senior was not in the room he would have yelled on her face and physically shake her to get answers. Of course, this makes no sense, and they did not need this on top of the investigation. But Sameera had other worry when he mentioned ‘curfew’- if says the truth, Samrat will be punished. And he only did it to ask for forgiveness.

She needed to make a decision to save herself and save him. And just like that day in forest, with Abhi beside her, she did so.

“A very important file was stolen from Abhi’s room that same night, Sameera.” Veer sir spoke, eyes conveying the seriousness of the situation, “He mentioned that file in the presence of me and the other HAWKS members, you remember when we all were in that other room with Natasha? Abhi was talking about sending it to Defense Secretary?” She nodded at that, “So that means apart from me and him, 5 other people knew that he was going to send a mail. And then we get this, you understanding why it looks suspicious?”

“Where were you?” Abhi asked. Sameera could not look him in the eye and he was suspicious of it immediately.

“Just around the corridor. Under the staircase.” She looked at Veer sir, eyes begging, “I would not steal it. I did not.”

“I know that.” He tried to soothe, “But the evidence, what do we do about the evidence?” Sighing, he asked after a while, “Can someone else vouch for your presence around women boarding around this time?”

She thought about Disha, but she shut down that thought very quickly, “None. There was none.”

Abhi looked like he was about to blow, and probably sensing this, Veer sir made her leave. She could hear his rising tone all the way until she left the corridor. Her feet carried her to the very same place where she had met Abhi’s mom once upon a time, in front of the ganesha idol. Closing her eyes, she bent down and prayed with folded hands, wishing his presence with her and praying Veer sir and Abhi gets some other clue on who stole the file because she did not.

She can’t.

She shared the news with Samrat before Veer sir can announce it formally to others that she was under investigation. As predicted, he was angry on her behalf and immediately wanted to go there himself to tell what actually happened. But she held onto him, and he would not understand why she was risking it.

“This is a national security issue, Sam!”

“I did nothing wrong. They will find out.” She was sure in her faith. Besides, she did not want Samrat to go through some punishments- he sneaked into women’s boarding, that could lead to termination and character assassination which she will never want for him, not even when her own career was at risk. He made a mistake, but things will be clear soon.

Things only escalated from there. HAWKS program was suspended, as usual the standard protocol, and everyone looked at each other in suspicion as the base was under investigation and heightened security. She never thought she would see a day that officers will come in their rooms, one by one, and turn it upside down to check for bugs and wires. Or maybe it’s that damn file.

6th day after she had meeting with Veer sir, she was informed to leave base and stay somewhere else until the investigation was over, ‘just to be safe’. For her, or the base and other HAWKS officers, she could not tell. She tried to keep a brave face when Veer sir informed her, and if it was possible, the man who was almost like her Father figure looked just as miserable as she felt.

Abhi was nowhere to be found.

“This is temporary.” He promised, and she nodded in agreement. Maybe this won’t be bad- Maa was always telling to come stay for a while, maybe this was an opportunity from God. Albeit painful and avoidable, but she had a silver lining. She made a call to her mom, packed her bag with necessary clothes and left the base, ID card and uniform back in room.

When she is officially cleared, she will wear it back.

She reached the NGO her Maa works, sat under a purple tree in the late evening just as Sun was setting, watching her talking with her colleagues and then kneeling down in front of some kids, her smile, like always, serene and peaceful. Probably it was Mother’s touch like all Mothers in the world, probably it was because it was her, but instantly she felt better and optimistic about this hellish week they all were having. Also, she made a decision- let’s not worry her about base and the investigation. She had this strong faith inside her that everything will go alright which come from one being innocent and having total faith on others.

But Sapna knew something was up. First of all, it was her face. Sameera was never one of those who could hide what they were feeling, and since the Mother Daughter only had each other apart from her Brother, they were each other’s first and best of friends. She knew something was up, and not to forget the phone call she received after Sameera called her out of nowhere to ask if she can stay with her. Veer won’t say anything, but she senses his voice shaking as he told her to keep an eye on her daughter. She did not question him, and she won’t ask her. When time comes, it will be revealed.

Sameera stood up from the wooden bench and smiled as he Mother arrived. The latter stalled, trying to gauge, the former played along, and not soon after they left for their home.