The start of crap hitting the ceiling

The thing about apology is that it don’t come into affect at once. Words have power to break, but they are not enough to heal. Hopelessly, it goes back to time- a lot of time to get over hurt feelings. Hence, the sorry’s from both side may have ended the prolonged silence, but the hurt remained. The underlying issues remained. Sameera tried to overcompensate- forcing a smile when she did not want to, trying to look brave and happy, talked when she did not feel like and held hands softly when she wanted to clutch them tightly as if her life was on line. She shared each and every small things about her day with Abhi, a irrational part of her wondering what might have counted as secrets and what may hurt him. Abhi, on his part, took it all in, although frustrated at times. But he had learnt an important lesson the other day- processing anger is better than shouting. So, patiently, he tried to put them back together. Tried to make her feel at ease so that her laughter was less forced and the scared look in her eyes went away.

He wanted to do something- for both of them. Apart from the fight which had soured the trip, they both genuinely had a great time along with their friends. He realized maybe focusing on good things were better, and it may take their mind off the negative things, making them move on easy. So meticulously, he put together pictures and memories for the trips- Sameera and Natasha had a lot of pictures, Disha had bills. He collated them all, bought frames and planned for an evening where they both can put them together and decorate a wall in his apartment, full of happy memories. Along with this, Disha had slipped away something important- apparently when they went to visit churches, they came across a children parks. Sameera had shared a story about always wanting a swing in house but never getting it. So Abhi saw it a way to mend fences. Maybe this small gift will make her more comfortable at his place, make her realize he was genuinely repenting for his mistakes and he wanted to make her happy.

Sameera was laughing at his enthusiasm as he physically dragged her through the door one evening. He showed her the table first- filled with pictures and frames of different sizes.

“Maybe we can put up some happy memories?” At the hopeful look, she sighed softly. Maybe they can get past the argument. Disha had advised her not to take the argument by heart, don’t be afraid, just learn from it and make their relationship better. Sameera was afraid these days, not wanting to ruin the careful balance. But maybe her friend had a point, and clearly Abhi wanted to move forward. Maybe this is time she does the same too, taking lessons along the way,

She was almost ready to sit down and start working on the photos when he gently pulled her closer, then made her walk toward the balcony. At the sight of swing hanging slowly in balcony, her feet paused, heart hammering in chest.

This man loves her too much for her own good.

“Like it?” He whispered in her ear, hesitating. In reply, she turned in his arms, planting a kiss of his cheek.

“You did not have to.” He rolled eyes at the protest, then took her near swing. She sat on it, giving it a spin as she laughed, the sound echoing inside the home. Once satisfied at the childhood dream coming to reality, she made space on the tiny seat, and Abhi squeezed into it, putting an arm around her so that, as usual, she sat almost on his lap.

“Thank you.” She whispered, but then frowned, “You know, you overcompensate. You did not have to do this.”

“And?” He emphasized each sentence with kisses on her face, making her giggle, “I want to overcompensate. Shower you with gifts. Spoil you. Give you things you say and don’t say. I want to do everything with you, make so many memories that each wall of this place is full of pictures.”

“What if I can’t give you back?”

“But I already have the greatest gift.” Their noses brushed, “You. You gave me your heart, and no matter how much I do, what I do, nothing will compare. So all these? Me saying thank you, I guess. For loving me back.” Her eyes filled with tears, his thumb brushed those aside, “I am so difficult at times, you know it. But I will do better.”

“So would I.” She smiled back, kissing their intertwined hands. It was going to be a great evening where they make some new, happy memories. Not wanting to dwell on past, she got up, offering hands, “Pictures?”

He nodded, taking her hand.

They spent the majority of evening selecting the best one and hanging them on a wall Abhi had pre- selected. There was an awkward moment when Sameera liked a group picture very much, but Shikha being there made her pause. She awkwardly showed it to Abhi, who gave a nod, looking at ease. She released a breath she did not know she was holding, going back to selecting and putting pictures inside frames. Abhi selected two photos of the batch- one of Sameera with her hands full of shells as sun rose in the background, another of the two of them on the cliff. Sameera won’t stop blushing, lightly saying she don’t look good in pictures. Yet, her eyes will shine when he reminded her about the ‘make more memories’ line.

Something odd happened next, which will nag Abhi for a few weeks post that. Sameera was ordering pizza, and for some reason the site asked for double authentication. She put the numbers (after repeated assurance from him that sharing password with her is fine, and no he do not mind.) but it asked for a OTP, and only then he remembered, thanks to being a long relationship, that Shikha was the nominee for majority of his accounts- social media, even finances. He did not want to think about it further, using other mode of income, but once he was alone, he decided to go through all the accounts he has and where Shikha was part of it. He immediately started removing and adding new nominee for the credit card ones.

Smita was pleasantly surprised to receive an early phone call from her son. Abhi called frequently now, but things were a bit busy in work hence could not visit. She was happy that he sounded better, and ecstatic whenever he would mention Sameera. She and Sapna had become good friends too, and Abhi would tease at times that she favored the other woman over him. He has an idea, but he will never really know how much Sameera had come to matter to his mom-  since the day she met her. She literally brought him back.

“Hi, Mom.” He started, and after some pleasantries came to point, “You will receive a call from my bank regarding nomination change. Please take it.”

She frowned at the odd request, “Change?”

He sighed, almost guiltily, “Shikha was the previous one.”

“Really Abhi?” She rolled eyes, “No worries. Once the process is done I will give you a call, is that fine?” He hummed, and for a moment Smita just heard him breathing. He clearly had something in mind and she let him be. If he wanted to share, he will.

“You know, Mom?” She hummed, “I told you about Shikha staying in the resort, right?”

“Of course.” She looked away in irritation. She did not like it then but she did not dwell much on it, new age kids and their relationships. 

“She had access to my credit cards. I did the bookings. She probably got the notification.” Smita stilled at the underlying implication of his words. He laughed lightly, “I am being ridiculous, is not it?”

But Smita did not reply, in rage, also an idea forming in her mind. Damn her if she is letting the Mother -daughter duo coming back to their lives, “Mom?” At his worried tone, she snapped out of it.

“I don’t know what to say, Abhi.” He sighed on the other side.

“I am being stupid.” She could picture him shaking head at himself, “Anyways, Mom, sorry to disturb you this early.”

“It’s fine. I was thinking to call you anyway.” Smita was not a big believer on God, her husband less so. But her mother-in-law, may god rest her in peace, always said once a storm has passed, she should do a grihashanti puja for peace and prosperity. She wanted to do it before, but the timing was not right and Abhi was away. This sounded like a great time to have it.

“Also, I am calling Sameera for this.” He laughed at that.

“Okay Mom. Do I inform her . . . “

“I will do. You just come.”

On the professional front, the HAWKS team were informed by Veer sir that they will go for a undercover mission exactly 50 days later from now in. After the initial shock passed, it was revealed that it will be the college where Rashi, the girl they heard mention last time, apparently studies. The demised air force officer was strict about her identity- there was no surname, no pictures, nothing on the girl. Veer was tight lipped about why they needed to find this girl, and when Natasha pressed for why them, he gave a look.

“Because we were asked to.” Everyone backed off at that, “Is there any doubt?” The tone told them further questioning won’t be entertained, hence nodding, he kept quiet. Once the team left, he and Abhi sat for a long meeting on the mission and its preparation, and the senior told Abhi the truth.

“This girl, Rashi, she is not Chauhan’s kid.” After the initial shock passed, he frowned at the revelation.

“Who is she then?”

“I will tell you everything, but promise me one thing- you won’t inform this to others. Not yet.” Veer was serious about this. The former looked like he might say something, but he nodded wordlessly, easing his worry.

So the story went like this- Jamal Sheikh, Abhi’s sort of nemesis, has a son for the world. Jahan, who apparently stayed in Afghanistan as per the last intelligence report. What few people knows is this- he has a second kid. Rashi. He met Rashi’s mother, Pragya devi, when he was hiding back in 90s in UK. Pragya devi knew Rahul Parera, a mild spoken good man and fell in love with him. Once indian intelligence along with UK counterparts came to know about his hiding, he was already well settled with Pragya and Rashi, and it’s been 3 years. He absconded and the two of them were under protective custody. Pragya devi came to India with Rashi, and later worked for former defense minister of state. Chauhan was the part of team who intercepted Jamal’s location in UK and protected the two ladies until his death. He gave the kid his name, bore all expenses. But he was also very tight lipped about their existence, and trusted none about them.

“Where is Pragya devi now?” Abhi asked after a long time, processing this dump of information.

“She was working with former defense minster, Sinde, till last year. She is now MIA. Others are looking for her.” Veer got up, pacing upside down in his cabin, “Everyone is thinking she might have went looking for Rashi, hence we are also keeping an eye on students in the college and put shadow ban so that no kid can leave or get transfer, or pull out. Rashi is supposed to be in 2nd year now, stream or building unknown.”

“Why we need to go look for Rashi, why now?” Abhi asked, “Is it for Pragya devi?”

“Partially yes.” Veer nodded, “Now that she is in the wind, Sheikh’s man can be after her, and by extension Rashi will be in danger. If captured, she can be used as negotiation, it can come out that Chauhan was the father on paper. Implications and risks are huge.” Pausing, he added lowly, “There is also another problem- Jahan Sheikh.”

“What about him?”

“Apparently he is in India.” Abhi’s eyes widened at that.

“You said he was . . . “

“Last known location- which is 9 months ago. After that, nothing. This is being suspected that he was the mastermind behind Jamal’s prison break stunt. Also behind that blind lady and the mole inside base. This is an unofficial suspicion, we don’t have any concrete evidence. But there is this feeling.”

“Gut feeling.” The former nodded at that, “If he is around . . . “

“We need to be careful. I trust HAWKS, and so do you. But just to be on safe side, let’s keep all these between us. I know there will be questions.”

“I will handle it.” He assured, making Veer sigh in relief.

“I don’t want to repeat what happened last time. We put trap and Sameera got stuck. This time, information will be limited- you go and find Rashi, I will be here looking for Pragya devi.”

Suryakant eyed the newest addition in his family.

He is a private person- in his emotions, in his territory, in his work. He have always worked in silence, and exercise that restraint in personal life too. Everyday he thanks his mother to select this woman to make his wife, because if there was someone else, he would have been divorced by now. He was a happy family man- a son everyone dreams for, good life, a perfect wife to balance his aloofness.

He is private hence he don’t say much. Army has taught him to follow orders, not question. He was the head of his family, but he follows the same in his family life too- probably the reason he never asked why Abhi was hellbent on marrying someone he did not love. Love was a tricky thing- it’s needed, but it also takes time. He thought for a long time that with marriage, companionship and love will come. But Abhi always looked irritated at the talk of commitment, and only snapped out of it and fought for something when Sameera came around- fought with his mental health, his emotions, his state of living, with everyone else. Smita always used to tell him to intervene, and was pissed for a long time at the ‘two bullish men in my family’, and when Abhi took a step to end his misery once and for all, she was ecstatic. On the coming days he saw his son’s happiness oozing out of eyes and the way he spoke, and realized he may not have intervened, and a lot time and heartbreak has passed, but this was a decision Abhi needed to take and he did at the nick of time. He did not really meet Sameera, or knew her outside how reverently Abhi talks about her or how happy Smita become on her topic. So today, when they were having puja, he decided to observe the girl who had captured everyone’s heart and become family. She is family now, the other two have decided and he admitted to himself.

On paper, she is exactly the kind of girl his own dead mother would have liked- dressed in traditional clothes, knew the hymns, sat with folded hands and eyes closed, looking like she was engrossed in the rituals. His mother had this grudge for a long time that Smita knew nothing about functions or importance of puja, she would have liked her instantly. She had this happy, peaceful vibe around her, almost as if it was a trance. It pulled people towards her instantly, and made them feel like they should reciprocate in kindness and warmth. He was sold on her after that, but then something else happened.

Years of being crippled and walking with a stick, and people have always gave him a wide berth- running to hold hand, take his cane without asking, trying to overcompensate as if he had this injury because of the people around him. He was a patriotic person, he would gladly join back Army if needed and spend days putting bullets in enemies, but he is practical enough to know it was a job. He got hurt and got medals and salary and other perks, and nobody else needed to feel obliged to him. His own family did the same thing- he would always fix Smita with a look and she will be displeased, Abhi’s hands will reach out to help, even after all these years. But Sameera- she stood near him, and offered hand. Did not take his cane, did not touch him or pulled him up. Offered hand, offered a choice. And it’s not like he can’t manage, but the courtesy alone made him hold her hand and take help to stand up.

Now he gets why Abhi is crazy about this girl.

The next couple of hours after puja was spent in library- Suryakant showing Sameera medals he and Abhi won over the years, various books he had collected over the years, photos of his colleagues who were retired or died on the line of fire. Smita and Abhi smiled at each other knowingly- one meeting and as usual, the usually gruff, detached man was a fan.

At the mention of a particular book based on army operation near the LOC of Rajasthan, Sameera perked up, “Veer sir recommended me a similar book on air force operation.”

He grunted, “It was a shitstorm back then. Everyone was involved. We lost many, we killed many. Because of bloodbath back then the area is almost peaceful now.”

The duo bade goodbye after hours and Suryakant almost looked forward to meet her again. Smita smiled with him with a teasing look, elbowing softly.

“She is a good one.” He admitted. That’s all he said and that’s all mattered.

“You know, I was thinking.” The older couple turned to head inside, “Maybe I should speak to Sapnaji for engagement.”

He raised eyebrows, smelling something fishy, “Is not it too early?”

“That’s why engagement.”

“Something else is going on is not it.” She tried to look innocent but he knew his wife too well- emotion is something which is transparent on her face, “Fine. Go ahead. Speak to Abhi.”

“I don’t think he will say no.”

“Same. But tell him before you bedazzle Sapnaji.” Pausing, he added, “Invite Sameera more. She is family, after all.”

As usual, Abhi and Sameera were in the former’s apartment- they had taken a full day leave and decided to spend it in silence. Abhi woke up after a small nap, and found it was dark outside. He called out for Sameera, who was curled up in the swing with a book in her hand.

“I am starting to think you come here for the swing only.” This was not entirely lie-she always rushed to swing and after sitting on it gave it a spin, and spend major time in it until he physically drags her away. Smiling sheepishly, she looked down at her book.

“It’s still not finished?” It’s the same book she was reading in Goa. She shook head, then offered her hand.

“I need an advice.” She whispered just when he sat on the swing, putting her in his lap and one arm around her waist, pulling her close. Absent minded, she turned a few pages of the book, his lips brushing over her forehead as he waited.

“I was thinking to send an official request to Bahi base, in Rajasthan.” He frowned, “It was the base where my Father was last posted. I was thinking maybe I should ask for documents- nothing too official. Maybe at least a photo, or details on what work he was involved in.”

“That’s good idea, Sameera.” She looked up with a small smile, “You need any help, just tell me. I can send out words too. Dad knows a lot of people too, he can pull strings.”

“Thanks for offering.” She snuggled closer, burying her head in his chest, “You don’t think it’s futile?”

“I think it’s a great idea. Worth trying.”

“I wanted to do this when I first joined air force, but something or another kept coming.” She confessed quietly, “When Veer sir gave me this book, I remembered it all. You know?” She sat up straight, eyes sparkling, “Veer sir was posted there too around same time.”

“In that case maybe you should ask him?’

She shook head, “He may not remember, there must be a lot of around. It’s okay, I will send out an email. Official request.” She kissed his cheek quickly, grinning widely, “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

Against the backdrop of a Mother who was determined on her mission to get her son engaged successfully this time, the base was going through something serious. Veer sir and Abhi had a meeting with higher authorities, and it was decided that HAWKS will pay an unofficial visit to former defense minister, where Pragya devi used to work until she went MIA. The base had already put a request for official documentation- at least a picture of the woman would suffice. But maybe it was Chauhan guarding his secret even beyond his grave, or the general red tapism, but things went too slow. They took an appointment from the former minister and HAWKS, minus Disha and Sameera, went to visit him. The sexagenarian was wheel chair bound now, his staff looked after him. His children were all settled abroad, leaving the man alone in his big house.

It went downhill almost immediately. Abhi had this awful feeling the moment they stepped in, and this apparently ‘new’ maid who kept her face hidden under a long veil did not help. Her voice made him feel like he had heard her somewhere, along with the way she moved and her features. They were surrounded by other staff members and the former minister himself, hence he did not get any chance to pass on this suspicion to others.

Then, out of nowhere, some gunned men took them hostage. As it was an unofficial visit, response from outside took time, and it was upto them to look out for each other. They hid in a safe room along with minister’s trusted PA and the former minister himself, and despite Samrat’s repeated suggestion that they can tackle them (they may have, but Abhi could not take chance blindly), they stayed put. It was also unclear who these gun men were or why they were even here. What they want.

Back in the base, everyone is in frenzy, and Veer looked like he had aged a decade in the last few hours. Local police and special Ops had reached the former minister’s house and there was a gun fight along with some casualties, but none could update him on the status of his team. Initially, he had asked the remaining officers- Sameera and Disha, to stay back and observe, but in the end he gave up and let go Sameera, maybe it was paternal affection, or he felt she would not be of any use now. Disha was a great help, had a calm head on shoulder as she co-ordinated with teams on ground while Veer sent a fleet on air to keep an eye on situation.

It was almost dawn of next day when the gun fight reduced a bit, and they could tell the gun shots were not coming from near them. The team had a vote, and they decided to move out of the safe room. But the moment they stepped out, they were bombarded with gun shots. In chaos, the former minister slipped away. Ignoring protests of others, Abhi ran towards the last location the minister was in, then he followed his gut feeling. Turned out, he was right all along. That veiled woman was Shehnaaz, the ‘blind’ girl from Gira and also the one who injured him back in the cafe.

“What’s HAWKS interest in Pragya devi?” She questioned the old man harshly, who was slumped on the round ground, and from the place Abhi hid, he saw the wheel chair turned upside down and his palms all bloody as he struggled. The woman had a gun in her hands, looking murderous. She felt Abhi moving, and before she could shot him, he put 4 bullets straight in her chest. But before falling, she managed to shoot one of his to the minister, who fell sideways, blood oozing from his stomach.

He half carried half dragged the man, shouting for medics. Samrat and Ali came running, “Shit.” The former cursed, taking some weight off his leader as the three men carried the injured old man.

“I heard a gun shot.” Ali asked, panting. Soon they were surrounded by medics and they took away the old man.

“It was me, and Shehnaaz.” The former was stunned, “She is dead.”

Abhi was sitting in locker room after a long shower and brief summary of the incidents that went down to Veer sir, his mind full of questions. Where the hell that woman came from? What was her interest in Pragya devi? Or, her interest was on HAWKS? Who sent her, and why she is the constant in whatever happened to them from months now? And now that she is gone, what’s next? If whoever sent her was after Pragya devi, they were probably going to get to Rashi as well. Maybe it’s Jahan Sheikh, or the older man, pulling strings from jail. But what’s their agenda here, why Rashi and Pragya devi is so important for them?

He was thinking maybe there are some things Veer sir did not tell him when he heard a knock, and looked up to find Sameera. She was smiling a bit, and his hand automatically curled upwards.

“Come here.” It was all she needed. She sat by him, their hands clasped tight.

“You okay?” He nodded at her question, running thumb to the back of her hand. She looked as exhausted as he felt.

“May I ask what happened? Ali told me in bits and pieces.” So he narrated the entire tale till he shot Shehnaaz. A part of him dreaded her reaction, but there was no judgment, no remorse. Only understanding.

“Why was she around? Who is behind her?” She asked after a long time, absorbing everything Abhi told her. It was a seemingly normal meeting which went southways. By god’s grace, nobody had even a scratch on their bodies.

“I was asking myself the same question.” He sighed, “But she was asking about Pragya devi. Which means whoever sent her knows about her too. Other teams are already looking for her, we need to get to Rashi fast before whoever on the other side manages to do so. These people are ruthless, and have resources as we all saw.” She nodded at that. “Methodical too. We did not have even a small injury, they had plenty of opportunities. Almost as if . . . “ He paused, suddenly realizing something. Sameera frowned too, at his pause and the words.

“As if . . . “ He trailed off.

“As if they were after the minister.” Sameera finished for him, making his head jerk up in surprise, “Of course, they were after him.”

“But they needed him to be alone. And for whatever reason, they spared us. Cause they wanted us alive.” A small, satisfied smile came on his lips, “Brilliant, Sameera.”

“You figured it out first.” She shook head, suddenly bashful. He narrowed eyes at her- someday, she will take his compliment, he will make sure of it.

The next couple of days passed in blur, with regular meetings, rigorous training regime and upcoming undercover mission for Rashi’s college. It was like Gira all over again, but ten times harder, if it was possible. For Sameera, it was strangely exciting, but there was something that nagged at her- since that minister house hostage incident, Samrat had been distant. Then suddenly, out of nowhere, he took leave. He did not tell her, did not even know about it until Ali casually mentioned it. It stung, but she told herself it was not about her, and prayed if it was something serious, it goes okay. Abhi, even through his blinding schedule, saw it all and decided to cheer her up.

It was on evening of planned date in a restaurant, but it rained out of nowhere and they were soaked. Sameera liked rain, and Sapna throughout her life had always scolded her daughter to not to soak in rain as she gets sneezes the next hour. But Abhi did not know it, hence indulged her, even danced with her in rain. They ran back to his place, changed into their clothes (he lent his clothes to her and laughed when the sweatshirt almost engulfed her tiny frame). Sameera had started to sneeze by now- not regular, but once or twice. When he gave her a stern look, she grinned, brushing her nose and toweling her hair dry.

Abhi walked near her, took the towel and patted her hair, “Told you it’s not good to be in rain for that long. Also, an unexpected one.”

“But it was fun.” She protested.

“If you keep sneezing,” On cue, her face crunched up but nothing came out, “won’t be that fun, will it?”

There was some general teasing and laughter post that, and Abhi don’t even remember what she said or what he replied, but after a while he was tickling her. Her laughter echoed around the house and they were on couch, him on top of her, and he was laughing too. He leaned closer and their lips met, smiling into the kiss, and just when things were about to get heated the doorbell rang.

“Ugh.” He groaned, burying his face in her chest as her frame shook with laughter. He got up, shooting her a mock glare, as Sameera sat up, adjusting her clothes and checking if her hair was still dripping with water. She touched the couch, making face at the wetness, then looked up.

Smita stood there, looking torn between awkward and laughter. Abhi looked the same, minus laughter, and a giggle almost threatened to escape her mouth. Biting tongue, Sameera quickly got up.

“Hello, Ma’am.”

Smita gave a glance to her son who stood as much away from her as he could possibly, cursing herself for not calling before coming but also amused, mind filled with teasing she will bestow upon him next. She turned to Sameera, giving her a warm smile.

“Maybe wrong time?” At that, Sameera snorted, hiding it with a fake cough. Probably seeing the humor in the situation, Abhi lighten up too, coming closer to the ladies. There were pleasantries exchanged, and after a while Sameera decided to take leave, despite half apologies and protests from the Mother son duo. She declined Abhi’s offer to walk till base- it was still light outside, promised to call him once she reached, and bade goodbye.

Abhi turned to his Mom once Sameera left and the door was locked behind them, “I will call from next time.” He rolled eyes at that.

“It’s fine, Mom. Green tea?”

Once the tea arrived, and some mundane conversations between the two where nobody paid any attention, Smita cleared her throat. Now that she had ruined a perfectly nice evening of her Son, might as well get this over with. She had already planned with Sapnaji regarding the engagement topic- the latter was taken aback, of course, but also said that it all depended upon Sameera. If she said yes, Sapnaji will have no issue. So that left with Abhi, and she had a feeling that he will be easy to deal with.

“Abhi?” He hummed, taking a sip from his own coffee, “Please get engaged.”

He choked on his coffee and she patted his back in comfort, wincing on his behalf. He shot her a look full of surprise and questions.

”Where did that come from, Mom?”

“Well, it’s the dream of every parents to see their children . . . “ He halted her words, scooting closer.

“Mom, please.” Smita turned serious.

“Will it be sufficient if I say I want you to do it?”

Abhi sighed, squeezing her hand, “It will be. But I want to know why.” Pausing, he said, “It’s still quite new between Sameera and me.”

“That’s why engagement, darling. Not marriage. You do your dating stuff, but with a ring.”

Suddenly, he looked alarmed, “Mom . . . please don’t tell me it’s something . . . I mean . . . we are not like . . “ Realizing the implication, Smita started laughing, her entire frame leaning on the single couch she was sitting on. Abhi just keeps giving more and more fodder for teasing, only he can hear engagement and think it was because parents were concerned about safety.

“No, Abhi.” She tried to compose herself, wiping tears of laughter- she needs to tell Surya this later, he will have a field day with this, “I am shocked how your mind went there.” He turned beet red at that. “You know, someone else in your place and they would have said ‘I need time to think’, not ask about why there is an engagement.” Deciding to tease, she asked, “Do you want to be with her or what?”

Abhi did not miss a beat, “There is no question on that.”

“So?”

“Sameera.”

“Her mother is talking to her as we speak.” His eyes widened at that, “If she says yes?”

“Mom.” He closed eyes.

“If she says yes?” Smita pressed. He looked at her, torn between cautious hope and hesitance.

“Then it will be a yes.” He sighed, “But please tell me. Why now?”

“Why do I need a reason to see my son committed.” He shook head at her, “I told you Father the other day, he said go ahead. Hence I am here, asking you.”

“More like telling me.” He replied dryly.

“I am allowed to make demands, are not I?” Before he could panic at that, she squeezed his hand, “Abhi, I like Sameera. I always have, you know it. And I am ecstatic that you two are together. I want to make it official, and I also know things are new. Hence it’s an engagement.” She teased, “You can at least look more excited, you know.”

“I will look excited when Sameera says yes.”

“She will.” Smita was confident, and through his elevated heartbeat, Abhi hoped it turned out correct.

Sameera and Sapna had the engagement conversation which was more like stunned silence where nobody knew what to say. As a Mother, Sapna was happy- her daughter received the love she deserved and it will be sealed by the blessing of God and society. But she was always the first friend of her daughter, so she also knew it came out of nowhere and she was hesitant. A part of her wondered maybe Smita bought it up because Abhi’s previous relationship broke right before engagement and there might be societal or extended family pressure on her. Not like she can fault her, especially a well to do family like them.

Sameera stayed the night, and before leaving for the base the next day, Sapna gave her a hug, “Think about it, bacha. Think about it properly. Talk to Abhi about it, and then decide. You don’t need to be hasty just because we parents are talking about it. We will understand.”

Sameera gave a small smile in return.

Abhi and Sameera skirted around the topic for a few days, partly due to busy routine of their upcoming mission, partly to think thoroughly before saying it out loud. One evening they sat in the garden of base after a long, tiring day, just being in silence and enjoying the quiet night. Getting the opportunity, also wanting it the weight to be over from her chest, Sameera broached the topic.

“It’s your decision, Sameera.” She frowned at that, and smiling, his hand reached up to smooth it, “Think. If you feel it’s right, we will go ahead.”

“What about you?”

“I will be okay with whatever you decide. Yes or no, either way.” He said it so easily that for a few moment, she could only stare back, “What?”

“You have to have an opinion on it.” She pointed out.

“I do.” He nodded, “I want you. I want this.” He motioned at their intertwined hands, “You are it for me, like you said I am for you. I see you in my future, and it really don’t matter to me when that future arrives, now or 10 years later. I am okay with a ring, I am okay with whatever we have now. I will let you set the pace.”

“Cause you are not thinking straight?” She teased.

“Maybe.” Abhi smiled, “So, no pressure from me. Mom said she would like to see us committed officially. She and Dad already considers you as family. If you are not ready, just say that. Nothing will change, I will handle it.”

She did not reply after that.

Sameera spoke about it with Disha, and she had a good point- timing don’t matter. The only thing what matters is if it feels right. Deciding to sleep on it for a while cause relationships sometime can be time consuming, the girls started to talk about other things. One things led to another and they were on the topic of Goa.

“Sam.” Disha spoke after a long time, and she had thought the other might have fallen asleep, “Ali and I kissed.”

Sameera almost fell on the floor at the confession which came out of nowhere. For a few moments she just opened and closed her mouth, but there was nothing she could say.

“I know.” Disha hid her face with a pillow, words muffled, “Stupid. Very stupid. And now we are stuck in that phase where being around feels awkward but we are also working together, so not like we can’t ignore each other. Always second guessing what to say or how to look. Ugh, I hate it.”

Sameera knows that feeling, “May I ask what happened?”

“That bonfire night? After truth and dare, Ali looked really down. I thought Natasha lying about her ex and that joke with you really turned down his mood, and I was right. I let him rant for a while and when he calmed down, gave him a hug. And then . . . well, stuff happened.” Disha peered at the former, “I could see it, you know. He regretted it just as it happened. Should not have gone after him, should not have let it happen. Stupid.”

Around all the things happening in her own world, Sameera did not see what went around her. Samrat was gone and she did not know, and her own close friend who also share a room with her was going through this turmoil for weeks on top of the pressure of mission, and she did not notice. She would beat herself about it later, but this moment was not about her.

“Did you guys speak?”

Disha shook head, “I can’t look at him outside work. It’s pretty great how Ali held himself in work, looks like he is already over it.” Sensing her tone becoming bitter, she sighed, “Maybe I should too. It’s a mistake, I should not think over it much.”

“You don’t think it as a mistake. You can not.” Sameera tried to be firm, “It happened. Now the question is, do you want to move forward? Or you want things to be like it was?”

“It’s the same thing, right Sam?” She gave a sad smile, “Nothing will change. And that’s okay, not everyone gets a happy story.”

Sameera looked away, “I think you two should talk. But of course, it’s your wish.” She turned off the light, “Think about it.”

Disha faintly bade good night as she fell asleep.

The official Rashi mission was postponed as some intelligence agency got a clue on where Pragya devi might be, and asked for two weeks time period to follow on it from Ministry which was granted. The HAWKS got a sigh of relief as schedule became regular, and Sameera was happy to see her friend back, albeit with a haunted look in his twinkling eyes and beard on his usually clean shaven face. When Samrat smiled, it looked tired, and whatever questions she had, she decided it can wait. He needs to adjust to the work now, she can ask him later. Suddenly everyone was busy- Ali and Disha was finally having the ‘talk’, Natasha had taken a 3 days leave to visit her cousin brother, Abhi and Veer sir went to Delhi to visit some higher officials. Having some free time on hand, she thought back on the engagement topic and called one day Smita Ma’am asking if she can visit. Of course, she was delighted, and by the time she arrived, the older one was preparing food with the help of her staff and convinced Sameera that she had to have dinner. Mr. Rathore was away on some real estate related work, and it was only the two ladies and staff around.

Sameera realized Smita might be lonely in this big, empty house. Even though she kept busy, or maybe the busy schedule is because she was lonely.

“No.” Smita won’t even let her touch a utensil or jar of spices as Sameera stepped into the kitchen.

“Did Abhi tell you I am a bad cook?” She pouted, making the former laugh. Even the older male staff was smirking in the background- Ganesh, his name was.

“No, sweet heart. You don’t have to help. Just stay near me and talk to me.” Smiling at the endearment, Sameera nodded. The ladies spoke about base, the mission they were supposed to work on without any details, Smita’s charity work and NGO what she was helping Sapna with. Smita had organized some workshops and they got a fund, and first supply of help for the NGO will arrive by the end of this week, and Sameera praised and thanked for helping her.

“You guys are family now. Besides, Sapnaji is going God’s work. Really. Rich people just throws money, but good people like her actually use that money and help those who truly need them. She is so passionate about her work, you know it.” Sameera did. Her Mother worked in that NGO since she was a kid, and it was not about financial aspect for her. There were times she had no money for house but she would give out Sameera’s old clothes for the kids. Putting others before herself, like Abhi always tell her. Maybe she learned from her Mother, it was in her genes.

The conversation arrived on the topic of engagement and Smita was relieved, also curious to hear the other woman. She already had ten points in her head to convince Sameera if she said no, or she needed time. She is going rushing it a lot, she knows it. And yet, something in her nagging to just go with it.

“Ma’am, may I ask why?”

“As in why now or why why?” Smita countered, blowing on her green tea and trying to look nonchalant.

“Why now, I guess.”

“Why not?” She looked up sharply, “My son is in love, the girl who loves him back is a darling. It’s almost dream come true after everything. Am I wrong to mention it?”

“I did not mean it.” Sameera tried to backtrack.

“I know it.” Smita sighed, hesitating for the first time, “I know I am rushing, Sameera, but I have this gut feeling . . . that it needs to happen. Trust me on this.”

“Is it because Abhi’s . . . “ Sameera left the word unsaid, fearing she stepped on too much. The former smirked at that.

“I got a lot of flak for it. I won’t deny. But the thing about having a husband who don’t care about others but his family is that after 3 decades, behavior rubs on you. In that moment, my son was happy, society could just . . . “ She motioned with her hand, to which Sameera nodded in understanding. “But it’s not new for me. You know we had an arranged marriage? Surya and me. His mother picked me for him, and till the day she lived, hated my guts.”

“Why?”

“I was not the daughter in law she wanted. She would have liked you, she wanted someone like you- soft spoken, big heart, respectful, traditional. I got so many scoldings from her just to get up in the morning and do puja.” She rolled eyes, “It was not exactly a secret when someone hates you like that. So rest of the family got a free pass. It was honestly a good thing Surya had transfers and once Abhi was born I went away. Only when we came here and Abhi was in std 9, I put my foot down. He needed a stable place and I wanted to stop moving. But just my luck, the moment my husband left army, my son joined another wing.” She shook head, finishing her tea with a long gulp. “I sometime used to curse her, bless her soul. Why pick me when you knew what I was like? Not that my parents tried to project me as someone else, or I lied. It was only as I grew up and started living with this man, I realized. She wanted to family and society to see me as an ideal in law, but she probably felt I was a good match for his son. Someone who can stay with him through the aloofness and gruff attitude.” Smiling to herself, Smita looked at Sameera, making a noise of protest, “I deviated from the topic too much.”

“I don’t mind.” Sameera smiled.

“You know, it will sound really selfish if I say it. But you deserve the truth, and the two men in my house will probably look at me weirdly if I say it out loud.” Smita became serious, “I want you two to be official as quickly as possible. I wanted it the moment Abhi told me a certain someone was with you in Goa.”

Sameera frowned, perplexed, “Shikha?” The former nodded at that, “But that . . . co incidence. Also, they are friends. She is nice to me. I mean, there is no need . . . I think.”

“Maybe not. But honestly, Sameera, Sunaina and Shikha never gave me the right vibes. It was tied to Abhi, of course, but I always had this feeling.” She shook head, “I know I sound crazy.”

“It’s not that.”

“She is out of my son’s life, and I want every other ways from where she can crawl back to be sealed.” She declared, “This is unfair, I know.” She squeezed her hand, “So keep it aside, and focus on if you want it. Abhi already said yes.”

“He did?” Sameera was surprised.

“Of course.” She grinned, “Now you think and give me an answer. Yes, no, you need time. Anything. Just do.”

After lunch, it was the time to leave. Smita won’t let her walk to take a cab to base and arranged her car, and gave a long hug at the entrance as the car waited.

“You know.” Sameera spoke before she got into the car, “My one friend said something similar. About Shikha.”

Smita smirked, “I like this friend already.” Pausing, she added sincerely, “But like I said, keep that aside. I said it because I did not have anyone else to share. Think if you want it, and give an answer. I will wait.”

Sameera nodded.

In the matters of heart, the Shekhawat women were both blessed and cursed. Blessed, cause they would love with everything they have and very few people can ever feel like that in their lifetime. Curse, because once they love someone, there is no looking back. There is no ‘after him’, ‘without him’, ‘only me’. It becomes us, and they take their bond seriously. Everything is a lifetime decision. Sapna did not think about another man when her husband ‘died’, and Sameera could not move on even when it looked like the man she loved was someone else’s. So, of course, when Sameera thought she will think it through, everything went out of window.

Sameera and Abhi were in his place, curled up in the swing she very much loves. She informed about the lunch in her own version, and just like the other evening, he was at complete ease with the topic. They were eating a special rice bowl he had made from scratch, and it was so delicious that she forgot all the manners and talked with her mouthful to praise him, making Abhi laugh.

“It’s spicy, but not too spicy.” Sameera looked at their individual bowls, frowning, “You did not put chilli?” He shook head, and she asked, “It’s not in the house?”

Abhi looked at her with a mixture of exasperation and fondness, “Chilli has not been in this house for months now.”

“Why?”

“You are allergic.”

“I know that.” She narrowed eyes at him obvious statement, “But you could use it for your own food, right?”

Abhi stared at her before answering, “I am not going to keep something in here which is harmful to you.”

Sameera was speechless, and also, as ridiculous at it sounded, had an epiphany of sorts. Here is this man who cared so much for her- and now that she mentioned the chilli thing, she also realized how slowly, by pieces, Abhi is making place for her in his house when he did not have to. He keeps some jars at a lower shelf so that she can reach easier, made space in his cup board and dressing table. From the day she had set foot in this house, whatever she had said he had done it, without question. He even brought a swing because that’s what she wanted, to fill a wish from her childhood. His love comes in big and small gestures, and Sameera realized what Disha said was true. Who decides time anyway? Right now, she felt it- she wanted them, together. If it takes a function to do so, be it.

She gently untangled herself from him, stood up and offered hand. Puzzled, Abhi looked at her, but took it none the less. They walked near the balcony surrounded by roses as Moon glowed in the background, the wind chimes making rhythmic sound as wind blew softly. Sameera was nervous for a moment, but she was also determined. Giving him a shy smile, she knelt on the ground.

For a moment Abhi was stunned, “Sameera, what . . . “

“I am in love with you.” He stopped at her words, their hands clasped tightly together, “And you are with me. Not sure why or how, and I have honestly stopped thinking about it.” He let out a huff of laughter at that as she chuckled, their eyes suddenly warm, “I know things are a bit too fast? But we are each others future. So, let’s have the first step of it?” Taking a deep breath, she asked earnestly, “Would you like to get engaged, Mr. Rathore?”

Abhi spoke after a long time, finding his voice, “Are you sure?”

“I am on my knees.” She teased. When he did not look satisfied, she amended, serious this time, “Yes, Abhi. I am sure. I have been sure for a long time, and I want to do this. So I am asking, do you?” At his silence, she huffed, also feeling a bit nervous that maybe he is the one who needs time to think, “If it’s a no, just say it. You know my knees . . . “ Abhi swept in, one arm around waist as he pulled her close, another covering her head as he kissed her deeply. For a moment everything was a blur and nothing mattered, both lost in each other in their own world. Once necessity of air came up, they parted.

“So,” Sameera teased, breathless just like him, “that’s a yes?”

Abhi shook with laughter, “Yes, Sameera. Of course. I would love to get engaged and take the first step of our future.” Their grins were so wide, so hopeful that everything around them lit up. Abhi could only stare at the woman in front of him, thanking whoever was up there that he sent her to him and filled the void in his life. She had such a big heart, and it was all for him. Dream don’t even begin to cover it. He would very much like to spend the rest of their time together tasting that smile against her lip, but just when he leaned again, she moved back with a surprised, ‘Oh!’

“What?” He frowned, but the smile did not really go away.

“It’s a tradition to put a ring on it.” She pointed at his hand. But of course they had no ring around, hence she untied her hair band, rolled the elastic and put it on his ring finger, “Ring hack.” He laughed at her antics, “Oh, I hope there is no hair on it.”

But nothing mattered- the hair band ring, or the possibility of hair on it, the absence of a real ring. Nothing mattered. And Abhi showed her, surrounded by flowers as moon witnessed and the wind chime sang their lullaby.

Sameera was in high spirits, nothing could dampen her mood- except her best friend having that shadow on his face. The engagement news spread fast, and now that Natasha was back, there were obligatory teasing and extravagant plans of celebration. Deciding to have a conversation with the man who was with her through thick and thin, Sameera offered to have a conversation one evening. Surprisingly, he agreed.

“Oh, you do remember me.” Samrat was teasing, but she looked down nonetheless. There was some truth in that.

“I am sorry about that. Should have spoken to you sooner.”

“Hey.” He covered her hand with his big one, “You gave me time and space. That was better. Also, so much has been going on with you.” He bumped shoulder, “Engagement, wow. You are paraya dhan now.” They both snorted at that.

“Enough of deflecting.” Samrat turned serious, “Tell me, please? Where did you go? What happened?”

He looked away for a long time, and just when Sameera thought to tell him to let it be if he was not up to it, he blinked furiously. To her horror, a tear drop fell, followed by many. By the time she had pulled her for a hug, her dress was half drenched due to his tears. She shushed him, heart sinking at his state. She knew very limited thing about Samrat despite being a close friend. She knew his parents were always away, he came from a well to do background, she knew likes dislikes and his habit. But he, even with his flirting and charming personality, was a closed off person. She always gave him a wide berth and never pushed, and he liked that about her. But maybe she should have asked more. What kind of best friend don’t know what’s going on with other friend? Samrat knows everything about her, but she failed to do so.

After he calmed down, Samrat let out the whole story. Apparently after that minister hostage incident, he came to know the girl he was seeing was in hospital due to a car accident. He waited in base on her health update as he did not really know about her family much and turning up would be awkward. But before the day he left he came to know her health deteoriated, and by the time he reached, she was already gone. He spent the few days with her family and returned, but he left his peace of mind and sanity with her.

Samrat wiped away his tears, making face at the wet spot of her dress, “It’s idiotic, is not it? How long I knew her anyway? It was so awkward with her family, I had to constantly think should I do this? Do I have the right? And I kept thinking what kind of ‘boyfriend’ I was, albeit new. I freaking waited until I got the news. Someone else in my place would have been there by her side, fighting harder. I was a disappointment.” He looked away.

“Hey, no.” Sameera intertwined their fingers, “You did the best you could. I am sorry for your loss. Sorry it happened. But you were not to be blamed. You left when you could, you comforted her family. I am sure she would have appreciated that.”

“Well, she is not here.” He snapped, but immediately softened, “Sorry. I am a nightmare these days. You know the other day I yelled at Ali out of nowhere. Now I can’t even find him to say sorry.”

“It’s alright. He will understand.” Sameera patted his hand, “And Samrat? It doesn’t matter how long you two dated. Feelings, remember?”

“Yeah.” He snorted, “Stupid feelings.” Sighing, he furiously rubbed at his eyes before more tears can come down, “When did this happen? Me and feelings, crying. My reputation will take a hit.”

“You can mourn.”

“Do I even have the right?”

“You do.” She soothed. “You knew her. She mattered to you. You have every right to mourn.” Seeing his crestfallen face just made her feel heavier, and unconsciously she started to cry. Seeing that, Samrat panicked.

“Oh, don’t.” The way he said that made her laugh, “Someone will see and think I made the Boss’s fiance cry.” He was back to teasing self, and though the constant shift in his mood gave her whiplash, she rolled with it. If he wanted to share, she will be there. If he wanted to pretend all was okay and joke, she would let him tease her. She had already missed out on so much, now she vowed to be here for her friends.

“Fiance? Not yet.”

“But you will be.” She felt his fingers on her cheek, brushing her tears along with hers, “Tell me, you guys fixed a date?” She shook head, “I don’t care where you set it or when, I want a DJ and dance party. My demand.”

“Okay sir.”

“You happy?” He again turned serious- nobody can tell he was joking a second ago. Sameera gave him a genuine smile.

“I am.”

“Good.” His arms were around her, “We all should be happy. Tears are bad, see the mess it made on your dress.”

Sameera shook head at him.

Looking back, this will be the moment, Sameera will know. Her promise to be with her friends probably came from a good place, but she did not know it- the other person should appreciate the support. Often, it becomes meddling, and she was in rude shock when it happened to her. Disha and Ali had a talk after a while, and if possible things became even more awkward. The tension was palpable, and everyone in their own way tried to find out what happened- Abhi asked Disha and Ali separately, then Sameera, and realizing maybe he was interfering too much, backed off. Samrat did his jokey routine and Natasha was snarky, but it just increased Ali’s temper. By the time Sameera tried to talk to Ali- not to give advice, or meddle. Just to know what’s going on, he exploded on her. He let her know in no certain terms that it was nobody’s business, and it was getting ridiculous, and he will fix it. It was a long rant and by the end of it he probably felt better, even guilty for shouting at the sweet woman who was nothing but good to him, all the time. Sameera on the other side was extremely sad, but like always she put a brave smile, brushed off his half heart apologies, and walked away.

Things only went downhill from there- she received an official letter from Rajasthan base and was heartbroken to know due to confidentiality of the mission, she won’t get any details on her Father. Even her being a member of HAWKS was not enough of security level clearance. A part of her knew if she approached someone else, like Veer sir or Abhi, they would help, but after the way Ali shouted at her coupled with this just put her spirits down. She hid the letter under her bed, gave half replies to Disha who looked worried, and went to sleep crying.

On the other side, the elder generation was having their own emotions to deal with it. Sapna was ecstatic as a mother, worried as a parent and also hopeful that her daughter will have a much better life with a partner in it, and no sooner than the kids informed the two families about their decision, the parents went ahead with the plans. Smita wanted to waste no time, and an auspicious date was set almost 3 weeks later. It was fast, everyone knew, but the excitement was such that none cared. Both the soon to be in -laws took comfort in the fact that they have a happy couple on hand who did not care about date and time. Smita threw herself on the planning and preparation like she always dreamed of, and surprisingly, even Suryakant joined. The families had constant calls, meetings with planners and visits to venue, until one day Surya casually mentioned they can use their house. After all, what’s better than to welcome the new family member by hosting the function in their own house?

Amidst all these, something nagged at Sapna constantly. She would only admit to it when she was all alone, after dark- Veer knew his one daughter is getting engaged. Sameera’s father was alive and if their lives were better, he would have been here, part of it. But he will be just another guest, a respected senior who will be ‘like a father figure’. At times, looking at Sameera and how she was starting a new life made Sapna scared. Also determined. She wanted to say the truth, and is not she also deceiving the new soon to be in-laws by hiding about their past? Then she remembers the messy history the three family share- in a way, Shikha is Sameera’s step sister. Veer has a family now, and even if she reveals it all, nothing will change. On the contrary, whatever careful balance they have will explode. Veer probably did not want to change his equation with family, and Sameera . . . Sapna can probably trust Sameera with truth, but then, she raised her without a man, did not she? It will be better if they both kept their mouths shut and just let it be. Raising suspicion is not good, and it also might impact her daughter’s future.

Veer was having similar thoughts on the other side of city, as he sat with HAWKS team for a meeting with Ministry of Defense. His head was not in the meeting, and for good reasons. Other day, he got to know that Sameera had requested for details on the mission he was back in 90s, after which ‘Karanvir’ went ‘martyred’. He did not have to think much before making the phonecall, and cursed himself everytime he saw her downcast face, thinking he missed a chance. It would have been so easy if he let her know. They could have known each other as Father and Daughter, she would have probably call him ‘Papa’ and they can be together. But things were not that simple, and he can dream about this fairytale till the day he die, but chances are he will not have it. Sapna did have a point- she was always the smarter of them. He had a family now, ‘Karanvir’ was dead. Her family was right here but he won’t get them. And maybe it was better that way- they all have moved forward, doing their own things and happy in it.

But, the heart wants what it wants.

Yesterday, Surya casually let it slip during a card game that Abhi and Sameera will get engaged soon. He had heard whispers around him, but the confirmation made him pause. The men, old friends from decades, frequently hung out in exclusive clubs in their Army/Air force social circle, and never minced a word. Veer always felt it was a good thing that two families will be in a relationship through his daughter and his son, but he did not know it will the other daughter. Surya, after dropping the bomb, looked at him as if waiting for something and Veer could not say anything. It was a great news, it was the worst news of his life. He wanted to be there, as a Father. Wanted to hold her close and bless her, kiss her head and ask if she was happy. And yet, he won’t get to do that. His other daughter was heart broken and he will probably be on the guest list, as the leader of team. Nothing more.

And yet, he cheated with time and their destiny. He came back alive, did not he? So when the meeting ended and the serious mood lifted a bit, he casually inquired about the engagement, shocking them all to silence.

“Do I get an invitation or . . . “ Sameera could only stare at him, dumb founded. Abhi was the same, and he was thankful when Natasha sharply nudged him with his elbow. Wincing, he glanced at her, then at Sameera before resting his eyes on his mentor.

“The invitations are not printed yet.” He blurted, then flushed, giving a warm smile, “Of course sir. You need to be there. We would love it.” His partner, finally snapping out of her shock, nodded quickly at that. Soon the HAWKS started to chatter, the usual ribbing and laughter like they always do, but his eyes were on the two of them. For a long time he debated with himself about what was right- and he received the answer in that moment. The way Abhi and Sameera looked at each other spoke it all, and Veer realized his disappointment, what was ‘right’, or Shikha’s pain meant nothing. It sounded cruel, but it did not. Two people were happy and they wanted to be together, and it all mattered.

He was at peace at himself. Before leaving, he put his hand on Sameera, trying to hide his warm eyes at she peered at him, touched at his gesture.

“I wish you all the happiness of the world.” He was sincere about that. With a last look to the both of them, Veer walked out.

The date was fixed, and before the actual engagement, Abhi held a small get together in his apartment. The two bedroom spacious place got a bit crowded with his parents, Sapna aunty, the HAWKS, Veer sir and Shikha, but soon they settled. Many of them have been here for the first time and they had a lot of questions. There was some teasing and compliments on the pictures and balcony decoration and the duo took it in good humour. Shikha stared at everything as if seeing it for the first time, and whenever her eyes will meet Abhi, she will smile.

Once the dinner was over- which was jointly made by Abhi and Smita, the people sat in various groups, cold drinks and juice in hands, chattering aimlessly. Soon topic turned to Army and Air force stories, old wars that was fought and their histories. On cue, the elder women got up- Smita was grumbling under her breath about the boring topic and Sapna laughed, and Surya, although displeased, accompanied the women as they went downstairs to take a walk.

Samrat was telling a story about how during one flying schedule back when Sameera was in coma, his flight almost malfunctioned and rescue flights had to bring him back. “I swear, Sam. Under me it was a thick jungle. I thought I have to use parachute and stuck in there, Man vs wild style.” Everyone laughed at his words.

“I pray you never face it.” Veer replied sincerely, Abhi nodding to it. The men knew what was it like to being stuck at some place from where coming back was a question. Shikha, till now slumped near her dad against pile of cushions, sat up straight, a pillow on her lap.

“Sameera? Was not your Father an air force officer too?” The mood lowered at that, “Abhi told me once.”

“He was.”

“How was he like? I mean, as a man.”

Sameera glanced at everyone, giving a small smile when Abhi looked at her with empathy, “Never saw him. But I have great stories about him. Maa always told me how he walked, how he talked, how he was with me, how they fell in love. Sounded like a great man. Always felt like he was around me.” Shrugging off the gloominess, she grinned, “Someone told me maybe my Father was looking at me from stars. I think that’s right.”

“Maybe you will have his records in air force officers files.” Shikha turned to Veer who had become stiff, “Is there any record, Dad?”

But the conversation died on that topic, and Shikha was left unheard. Veer excused himself on the pretense of meeting with the other ‘old people’ downstairs, leaving the youngsters be. Only Abhi noticed his slumped shoulders and the way his face fell the moment he turned, wondering if this get together was too much for him.

The thing about betrayal is that it takes a long time to move past. Shikha was a practical woman, and for so long she tried to hold together a dead relationship where one side never wanted it. When the truth came out, a part of her had all the answers- she also realized Sameera was not the primary factor, but someone accelerated the demise of their relationship- if she can call the years of deceive as one. Once the madness of self harm subsided, she tried her best to move forward, there was nothing to look back. But maybe she had her mother’s genes after all, or maybe she was her own version. She found herself slipping back- following Abhi to Goa, taking sadistic pleasure on the fact that Abhi and Sameera fought over her. Coming here today. But cracks appeared in those small moments, like when Abhi called her to let her know he will remove her from credit card nominee list. She was pushed away from his life, and it’s exactly how it should have been. And yet, like a sadist, she was here. To see till what extent she was erased from his life.

Turned out, she never was part of it. Sameera, on the other hand, left marks all over his place.

The flowers were her idea, and Abhi put it because she likes roses. He waters it two times, like she said. He put the swing because Sameera wanted one since her childhood. She was pleased seeing her photo on the wall, but it was in a group and above her there was a solo, giant portrait of Sameera. And she was supposed to be the model, the photogenic one. Sameera gifted the wind chimes. Abhi don’t keep chilli in his house because Sameera is allergic to it, and always keeps ingredients of Kheer in kitchen because Sameera loves it so much. His mother adores her, and apparently is all over the engagement preparation. The woman never bothered when it was about Shikha and Abhi. Even Suryakant, whom Shikha thought did not care about anything much, listened when Sameera said something, albeit mundane stuff. She heard whispers that the ‘Daughter and Father in law’ had common love for books and history.

Sameera was in his kitchen, in his living room, in his bedroom where her gift to Abhi was displayed proudly- a Ganapati coin for lucky charm and her dead father’s watch. Shikha felt like a creep by opening Abhi’s wardrobe, but this madness won’t subside. Sameera kept spare clothes there, the dressing table was littered with hair band, on a corner of bed her dupatta from some suit was thrown carelessly. She was here in a way Shikha could not, or maybe would not have. Shikha was never intimate like this, Abhi never cared. Abhi, this time, cared so much that he would himself fold her cloth and put together her scattered hair ties neatly on the dressing table. Abhi was uncaring in a way that he would plant a kiss on Sameera’s cheeks, eyes never leaving her face and hanging onto her every word. It’s like everything he did wrong that time was being undone, but the saddest part was Shikha was not beside him.

And she did not know if seeing all these was helping her to move on, or she is getting sucked back into it. The noise around her died down as her mind went down the rabbit hole, and she only snapped out to listen when Samrat called her.

“Ah, sorry about that.” She deflected easily, “You were saying?”

“Were you into any sports?”

“Me? Hah!” Shikha turned to Abhi, both of them having identical comical look at the question, “Abhi, tell them.”

He answered sheepishly at the curiosity of his friends, “Sunaina aunty never approved.”

“She was terrified I will have a scar or something.” Shikha burst out, “She was always very protective of me.” Rolling eyes at her mother, she asked others, “What about you guys? I know Abhi played football.”

There was a dead silence at that, before Sameera asked softly, “He did?”

“Of course.” Shikha glanced at others, and when realized nobody knew this little bit of information, felt very pleased, “He played till 12th. Can you believe it? He has all the trophies back in his house.”

“You never told us.” Samrat accused Sameera, his finger pointing. Sameera blinked at that before answering softly.

“I did not know.”

It felt like crawling back up from the hole. So she was not that replaceable after all. There will always be part of Abhi she will know first, there will be memories they two share exclusively. And she was feeling petty tonight, so she went all out. Party turned soon awkward after it and after a point even Abhi looked uncomfortable when Shikha started reminiscing about past- his favorite team was Bayarn Munich. This one time he was so excited about the FIFA final that he was up for 37 hours straight and went flying. They visited many places, and this particular restaurant was great. Did he remember the scenery, was not it just gorgeous? Did he remember she had a show in Delhi and he came so late and they went driving all night? Shikha felt no remorse at the mood dying, and felt pretty good about herself once the party ended and she left with her Father.

Sunaina found her daughter late in the night in her room, sobbing her heart out. A part of her wanted to go to Abhi’s, maybe snark a bit and ruin the mood. But Veer warned, and a part of her hoped Shikha’s presence will ruin the ‘happy couple’.She can’t believe all of this is happening- Abhi moving on so fast as if her daughter did not matter. As Shikha wrapped her arms around her and sobbed on her chest, Sunaina cursed the Rathores to the end of earth and prayed to Gods and Devils up there to make them pay. Of course, she was wrong, but this was exactly what she wanted to stop. Abhi broke her daughter, and now he get to move on like nothing happened? What about Shikha? Where is the justice in that? Sunaina always knew that Sameera broke them apart and her hatred grew, she also remembered that official email she saw in Veer’s computer- why would Veer meddle with Sameera’s official request to find out about her Father?

Maybe what nagged at her was probably right. But she will think about it later.

“It’s truly over, Mom.” Shikha cried out, “She is all over him! Everywhere, it was her!”

“If you want, it can be fixed.” Sunaina promised, “You just have to say it.”

Shikha pulled herself away, frowning, “When someone is ingrained like that, they are not removed easily, Mom.” But that was a futile point of conversation. Sunaina always hinted that she would do anything to keep apart Abhi and Sameera and just wanted Shikha to agree, the latter never did. But tonight, Sunaina had enough- she had her own spiral. So when Shikha tried to relent, move away, she held her chin and forced to meet her eyes.

“Do you want him back, Shikha? Answer me.”

Shikha looked back curiously.