Choona hai asmaan Abandoned G

The last thing I wrote

Abhi tend to brush aside things, especially when it’s about personal life, until it’s on the edge and about to explode. He did it with Abhi’s death, Shikha, his Mom and Sameera, and almost ruined everything. He thanks God every day that Sameera was braver than him and came to him before he can destroy everything, and after that he tried every single moment to make up for lost time. To not repeat it. But he still slips at times- human nature and habit, his therapist said. It’s not like he don’t see it, but he don’t interfere until absolutely necessary. For example Samrat in his team. He took a long leave and came back looking like hell, and they had their moments during work and with group. He started to look better, and he felt whatever happened was over. Ali and Disha was having this friction too, so he just let it be without meddling too much. They were a close knit group and hung out a lot outside work, but he still did not want to intrude much unless they feel suffocated with his presence all the time.

But he realized he should have asked more, pushed harder when he felt Sameera was not really here with him. She was really happy with the engagement, excited and engaging with her mother and general planning of ceremony. But when she is alone, she is lost in her head. He tried asking a few times but she brushed those aside, and he felt maybe it was related to Samrat or something else. It nagged at him that she won’t tell him, but he should give space. Sameera never pushed him when he was uncomfortable, she deserves the same and more.

They were in his house after work, going over guest list- not too many, but enough people that everyone in the city knew about it. “So, nobody from your friend circle?”

Sameera looked at him wordlessly, shaking head. He knew about her school time experience, hence smiled back sympathetically.

“Samrat is here.”

“Yes.” She nodded, confident this time. There was a hint of smile as she spoke, “And there will be my other friends. They will be enough.”

“Good.” He smiled back, relieved, “Now, the ring.” Abhi was truly excited about it. He and Mom had already selected one diamond ring. No fancy cuts or big stones, just small ones littered all around it. He took her, kissing the finger the ring will be soon on, “I have already picked one. You will love it, it’s made of diamond and the stones are like . . . “ His words were cut off by her.

“Di . . . diamond?” She was stunned.

“Yes.” He was worried, “Don’t you like it? We can change the metal.”

“Abhi.” She gave a hesitant smile, “I am sorry, but I don’t think we can afford it.”

He did not understand, “We will be buying it. Rather, me. I will buy it.”

“Yes.” She nodded, “But we need to buy a same one for you. I can’t afford it, I don’t think Maa can too. There are already many expenses, I would not want to burden her further.”

He laughed, suddenly uneasy at the way conversation was going, “Sameera, it’s fine. I am buying because I think it will look great on you. Doesn’t mean you or Aunty needs to purchase the same. Anything is fine by me.”

She was quiet for a long time after it, “That’s not how it should work.” When she looked up, Abhi saw the same defiance he had seen once upon a time when they had shared a jet and she had argued to lower the altitude, “There should be equality between two parties. If you are spending that much money, I should be able to as well. If the party is lavish on your side, we should be able to do the same. There should be equality.”

Abhi had half a mind to interject, but he did not know how to approach it if Sapna aunty was going through financial crisis due to their engagement ceremony. He then heard what she was saying next and blanked out for a moment.

“Already there is no equality between us.”

“What does that mean?” For a moment, he was angry. When have he ever insinuated that he saw her anything lesser? Sameera, probably sensing she spoke too much and his tone, looked away.

“You know what I mean.”

“No, I actually don’t.” At his reply, Sameera exhaled in frustration. Her hands were wringing in nervousness, and sensing his gaze on them, she hid them under her dupatta.

“Look at us.” Finally, she looked up, steeling herself. This will serve no purpose, maybe even ruin everything, but she did not know how to stop now. Abhi stared back, incredulous as she spoke, “You are . . . a senior. My Boss. Good looking, come from a well to do family. Have property. Everywhere you go, people know you. You have a social circle, you studied from best schools and colleges. You have seen the world, you are a renowned He . . . “ Biting her tongue as she know he hates the word hero, she amended, “renowned officer. You made the country proud. You got so many meddles and awards I don’t even know the name of.” She chucked sadly. “And look at me. I . . . my mother lives in a rented place, for God’s sake.”

“Is it about our financial difference?” He interjected. She looked away, almost as if going to say something but decided against it.

“I should leave.” Just when she was about to leave, he held her wrist.

“No.” He fixed her with a stare, “You are not going anywhere. Neither will I. We are going to sit down and talk about it.”

“I already said too much.”

“I think you did not say enough.” He gently pulled her close, their eyes meeting, “Where did it come from? Is the ceremony becoming too overwhelming? Do you want to tone it down, or postpone?” He halted on the word, but she was more important than a ceremony which will bind them in front of society. If there was something which was making her uncomfortable, he will fix it.

“No. I don’t. . .” He hated it how she was second guessing what to say. “There is nothing wrong with the ceremony. Everything is fine. I am sorry for saying all these.”

“I don’t want sorry. I want to know where did it come from.” Abhi hooked a finger under her chin, forcing her to meet his eyes, “Do you really think we are not equal? Did I ever made you feel any less?”

“You did not.” She promised, “But we are not. Are we?”

“Sameera.” He sighed, “If you are going to compare us by materialistic standard, please don’t.”

“But we are not even equal as human.” She pointed out, “Our background, our education, our life choices, nothing was equal. It’s probably pure luck we were under same roof to even meet each other.”

“How does it matter if I have more medals or I can afford more than you?” He exploded, on his wits end, “We love each other, and we want to be together. Yesterday, this was not even an issue. Why now? What changed?”

“I just think . . . “ He could actually see the moment a thought came and strike her. Suddenly, he was cautious and terrified what was it.

“Sameera?”

“Maybe . . . “ She swallowed, and after taking in the look of wrath on his face, brushed it off, “Nothing. Nothing. I just . . . always thought relationship should have been between equals. That’s it.”

After that there was nothing they both could say. He half heartedly asked her to stay, but they both knew they needed to be away as quickly as possible. Sameera was in guilt, fearing she spoke too much, but also realizing maybe this was something she should have explained in a more detailed, polished away. In a way, she made him feel guilty about his life and past, something on which Abhi had no control over. Like he said, it was not even an issue yesterday. But, for her, this was an issue since that dinner party. It was an issue when Shikha told them about a part of his life from another time, and Sameera realized she will never match upto that. That was probably stupid, she and Abhi were together. But insecurities don’t go away that easily, so her previous one came back too. Maybe he deserve better- someone equal. Like Shikha was. And she hated herself that she could never be that. Someone he should have.

Abhi, on the other side, wondered what can he do to fix it. Financial equality was never a point he thought he will have to tackle. Deciding this was something he knew nothing about, and also wanting another point of view on this whole conversation which happened here tonight, he gave a call to certain someone.

“Mom?”

The argument hung above them like a shadow, so of course everyone noticed the gloominess. Everyone had their own reason as to what may have happened- Ali apologized, thinking he had a hand and was cautious around Abhi in case he burst on the behalf of his beloved. Samrat tried harder to look okay, and seemed to be away once their schedule was over. Disha gently coaxed Sameera to say it, so one evening after their flying routine was over, the two sat in the empty locker room and chatted on it.

“Oh, Sam.” Disha crooned softly, and a few tear drops fell from the former’s eyes as she sniffed, “I am not even sure what to say.” But she did say once the tears stopped- they both agreed that the way Sameera spoke on this was not right. If she had any issue regarding any financial spending or the planning in general, she should speak on it. The equality part was true, but should have been worded better.

“I am not saying you are wrong to mention it, Sam.” Disha put a hand on her shoulder in comfort, “I don’t think he even thought about it- what you risked by falling for him. Or what you continue to risk everyday. The gender factor, the hierarchy, or how things played out. Maybe he was never in that position where he faced those, or maybe it’s men being men.” She shrugged.

“I should not have said all those things.” Sameera replied quietly, “There was no reason. I . . . did not know what came over me.” But that was a lie, she did know.

“Do you guys need the room or . . .?” At Natasha’s sudden presence, the duo looked up, startled. She was leaning sideways at the entrance, eyes scrutinizing. Sameera gave a small smile, then extended her hand.

“You sure?” At the two’s silence, she walked in, taking her hand, “I think the actual bidaayi is quite far, why these?” She motioned at the tears as the former laughed, brushing those aside.

“Well, our couple here had a lover’s fight.” Disha explained it all, trying to lighten the mood. Natasha, crouched down in front of them, fixed Sameera with a glare once the former finished.

“Sam, really.” The former was taken aback at her tone, “You are being extra right now.”

“I will apologize.”

“But do you know why you are apologizing? Or why you said what you said?” Natasha turned to her, “Did you figure out?” At the women’s silence, she exhaled, “Am I the only one who’s seeing it?”

“What?” Disha asked, clueless.

“I mean this equal thing- not that it’s incorrect, was not a topic before, was it? But suddenly it is, why? Especially after that dinner party at Abhi’s, is not it, Sam?” She got up angrily, taking a seat beside Sam, “You need to stop letting Shikha control your life, Sam. Damn it, it’s bad enough she is around you two.”

“Where did Shikha come from?” Disha asked, and at the former’s look, turned to Sameera in surprise, “Is it true, Sameera?” At her silence, she whispered, “Wow. I . . . did not think that. But there is no reason to be insecure of her.”

“But she is giving reasons.” Natasha spoke dryly, “Oh, Abhi, remember we went there? Oh, wasn’t the food just great? What was that friend who called you at 4am on my 26th Birthday?” She mimicked Shikha’s tone, disdain evident, “As if she was so subtle about it. Trying to rub it in their faces.”

“Ah, yes.” Disha was sheepish, “That was weird.”

“She knew what she was doing.” Looking at Sameera who was quiet all these while, she softened her tone, “And looks like she hit bulls eye.” She squeezed their hands, and Sameera looked up, “I am not trying to make you feel bad, but you know none will say you this. Maybe Samrat will- but he is not here right now. You have this tendency to be good to people, to see the good parts even when they are absolute shit to you. You did not give up on me, thank god for that.” The ladies cracked a smile, “But I was horrible to you. And you are doing the same to Shikha, maybe it’s the way you are. Or maybe a part of you still feel guilty about her. But I think you need to keep it into consideration that their past was not something which can be looked back fondly. Pretty sure Abhi is uncomfortable majority of time, even with the ‘friend’ thing. It’s not right to subject him to this because you want to be good with his ex.” Pausing, she added, “You want to be civil and polite, do it. But this insecurity that she is somehow better than you, and bringing that between Abhi and you is not right. And high time you share it with him, or process it yourself for once and for all.”

Sameera spoke after a long time, processing her friend’s valid points, “Thank you.”

“Fix it.” Natasha gave her a look, but her lips stretched into a kind smile.

On the other side, Abhi had a discussion with his Mom, who promised to find out if the function was hampering Sapnaji financially somehow. Turned out, while it’s a bit compromise from Mother-daughter’s side, it’s not something of an issue. Sapna was saving for her daughter all her life and it’s not draining anything, and Abhi was relieved. Still, just to be on safe side, Smita cut down unnecessary arrangements and they kept options for different rings in case Sameera is still adamant.

Suryakant, on the other side, had a different point on the ‘Equal’ topic. “You did not listen to her properly.” Abhi frowned at him. “She did not say it’s just about money- she mentioned ranks, medals.”

“I don’t think I can do anything about that, Dad.” He sighed.

“But maybe you should keep an eye and ear in workplace.” Surya said wisely, taking in the confused look of his family, “Have you considered how you two look to outsiders? She came to your life, your years long relationship broke.”

“She did not break it.” Abhi spoke immediately.

“You two belong to the same team. You are the leader.” He continued as if his son didn’t interrupt, “Being in a relationship with boss. Being in relationship with a colleague who was known to be committed for years. The hushed words, the pointed fingers.” He turned to Smita, “Women, right?”

“I . . . I did not think like that.” Abhi confessed, suddenly panicked, “How do I fix that?”

“That’s not something you can fix.” He looked crestfallen at the answer, “It’s something out of your hand. What people think. You can assure her. You can try to find out where it came from. Be her support. Let her know she is not alone. That sort of things.”

Smita was awed- two decades later and this man still makes her speechless. When Suryakant noticed, he looked away.- he still can’t handle her look of awe.

His Father’s words sent him to a spiral, and Abhi wondered what can he say or do to even fix it. If Sameera confess someone really told her that sort of thing- God, he will break that person’s face, no question ask. The power balance was a tricky topic too, so far they have managed to keep work and personal life separate. In future if there is any argument in work, they need to learn how to not make it about their relationship or their hierarchy. Let work be work.

Thankfully, Sameera had the same thought about having a talk. She entered his apartment gingerly, and then surprised him by a sudden, long hug. As they both swayed, breathing in, Abhi realized how brave she had truly been by speaking what she had in mind, and by coming here. They both will work on it and he will make sure she never feels she is lesser to him in any way.

So Sameera started her tale, her head on his chest as they snuggled couch, his fingers stroking her hair, “Let me start with saying how I said things were not right. I did not mean to imply that you had any fault or that you ever made me feel lesser. It’s just . . . a lot of thing was going through my head, and I could not process them properly. And it was not related to function, per say.” Pausing, she asked, “If I confess something right now, will you think I am silly or overreacting?”

He pulled her impossibly closer to him, “Never, Sameera.” Then, to lighten the mood, he whispered, “You can just say it in my ear. It will be safe.”

She laughed, taking her time to put together her jumbled thoughts before confessing. These are some things she did not even admit to herself, much less than Abhi. But Disha and Natasha did have point- she need to clear her side and end this once for all so that this issue never arised again.

“You know, you are always something unattainable. For me, for everyone else. Someone great, something larger than life. People admire you so much, you have a reputation. You are nice to everyone, considerate, but I really felt how far out of my reach you are when we had that party after Gira for HAWKS.” The night Shikha came back was left unsaid. “And even after knowing you are way out of my league, you are someone else’s, I could not move past. Not like I did not try, but maybe it’s cause you are always around, or my feelings were too deep. At times, I hated myself for being so pathetic, but then I came back after the traitor accusations. You said, I am your best friend. And in that moment I realized, or rather, I felt like of course, this man will never pick me. What am I in front of him? There is nothing in me which deserves him- I am subordinate, lesser than everything he has. He will be kind, he will be too generous. And I might have mistook that, or maybe there is some spark. But he will never act on that, will never risk anything for someone like me.” Taking a shuddering breath, Sameera continued, “And then, by some miracle, you were with me. You said you had feelings for me too. It was impossible- it still feel impossible. Sometimes I feel that this is all an elaborate dream, that I am probably still in coma and it’s all happening in my head.” Abhi nuzzled on her hair at that confession, “And things were good, right? It was all perfect, I am still at awed sometimes. Then Shikha tried to . . . and I felt like, maybe we should not be together if its causing so much hurt to so many people. I was in guilt for ages over her, feeling responsible for everything. Maybe you would have found happiness elsewhere. Maybe I should not have interfered. Maybe . . . maybe. But, my some miracle, it was solved too. And we reached to this time, where we want to take this step.”

“But?” He implored.

“But.” She sighed, “It’s silly . . . like of course we had past before each other. But it just came to me suddenly, that I won’t know you fully, ever. Not how you were. You had whole other memories at a different time, there will be people who will know your that side. I was not. . . jealous, per say? But upset, and again old feelings come back. That you and I may not have that. And maybe, if you shared those memories with another person, maybe it was perfect for you. I can never be what you had.”

“But you are everything I want.” He replied, thumb brushing over her ear, “My past . . . you know all about it. I don’t think I was ever fully truthful in those shared memories.”

“I understand it now. I probably did, but stupid . . . insecurities.”

“Hey, no.” He shook head, “I also realized whatever you said may not be all because of our ranks or background. I spoke to my parents.” She looked down, embarrassed at that, “Dad had an interesting point. Sameera, please answer this honestly. Did anyone at work, ever. . .” He could not find correct words to express himself and she frowned, “insinuated anything? Regarding you and me?”

Her eyes widened in understanding, “Oh, no no! I am surrounded by HAWKS anyway, they are all too good.”

He sighed in relief, “If it ever happens, you will tell me, right?” At her hesitation, he clarified, “I will never interfere. But I would want to know. You can share with me.” She nodded, making him relieved, and Abhi continued, “About your not equal part, I would like to say my part too, if it’s okay?” At her silence, he squeezed their hands, “You have to know that I am so proud of you, every single day. I have never shared the hardships they way you have, and you have overcome all that and reached here. And it’s just the start of your career, imagine what you will become 10 years down the line. Maybe this place will fall short to hold your medals and recognition.” They both chuckled at that.

“You know, dreaming for air force was like an audacity. I mean, not the money part. Anyone in here have their relatives in some high rank. Generation wise family members come here, like a big close knit group. I had my father, but not like I knew anything about him.” Sameera shrugged, “I still could not believe I got into HAWKS and got these wonderful people around me.”

“Like I said, you will surpass everyone of us, trust me.” They grinned at each other, and Abhi’s hand reached up, “You will be here.” Then it lowered, “I will be here.”

“Oh stop.” She hid face in embarrassment, “So, am I forgiven? I know I have been really unfair to you, and I will be better than this.”

“There is nothing to forgive, Sameera. I am glad we had this talk. You ever feel anything which is not right, you just say it. We both will fix it- and about work, if there is ever any issue, we will leave it in workplace. Maybe it will be hard, but we will do it. Okay?”

“Okay.”

“I mean it about our engagement too. If it’s ever too much- the function is too big, people are too much, expenses are too high, just tell me. Mom and Dad will talk to aunty.”

“No.” She shook head, “It’s nothing like that. There will be some compromises, but nothing too much.” Sameera gave him a smile, touched at his gesture, “Thank you. Saying it means a lot.”

“I will fix anything which bothers you.” He vowed, “I promise.”

There was a comfortable silence, both of them lost in their head thinking over what the other person said. Sameera was blessed to have this man in her life, and felt relieved to say what was in her head for a long time. He was so understanding, so wonderful about it all. Abhi too, understood her fears and where those came from. He vowed to work on them one step at a time, until she have no apprehensions about them.

“Abhi.” He hummed at her call, “Something happened, and I think I took it out on you.” She hugged him tight, burying face in his neck as his arms wrapped around her immediately, running a hand over her back in consolation as she sniffed. Worried, he waited for her to say something, and she did not disappoint. “I received a response from base, regarding my Father. They rejected the request, saying it was confidential and my security clearance was not enough.”

“Oh, sweetheart.” He crooned, “Why you did not say anything?”

“Did not want to ruin anything, I guess.” Her voice broke, “Did not work out, did it?”

“I am so so sorry.” They both swayed side by side, “Do you want to write to them again? Maybe I can help?”

“No.” At that, Abhi gently untangled her from his chest, looking earnestly at her face, “My curiosity is not bigger than national security. For whatever reason, it’s not a public knowledge. So I will stop.”

“You sure?”

“Yes.” She wiped away her tears, “I have Maa to share his memories. I will just picture him in my head.” Abhi offered his help again, maybe even ask Veer sir for help, but she was adamant. He did not know if he was proud for the officer or heartbroken for the daughter.

“Looking back, I guess this is all where it started. Me not being enough- not even having a high security clearance, not being a good friend, not good enough.” At his frown, she clarified, “Samrat was gone and I did not know. Disha and Ali were having problems and I did not know. Too lost in my own world. When I know something and tried to talk, Ali did not like it. I did not mean to upset him, but it happened. I understand now that other person need to ask for the support, needless interfering will just upset them. I will be a better friend. Non interfering one.” She tried to give a small smile, but it was woobly.

“I noticed it too, not like I did not mean to . . . interfere, like you said.” Abhi confessed, “We are good friends, but I am also aware that I am the boss. It’s natural there will be some distance because of it. Did not want to intrude too much until it was asked, I guess. But I think Samrat is doing better?”

“Yes.” She did not reveal much and he respected that. “I should say sorry to Ali too. Would not want to make things awkward.”

“You think I should talk to them?”

“I should not comment on it, Abhi.” Sameera said truthfully, “If you feel it’s right, you do. Or don’t. But you don’t have to talk because of me.”

“I won’t do that to you.” They were clear on it. Things were out in the air, and sharing made things better. The smile on their faces were of relief and hope, and when their lips touched, they felt it too. But Abhi had something else to share.

“Sameera, I may not be able to erase your doubts about us being equal in one night, or in a single conversation. But I would want you to know what you mean to me, what you have continued to mean to me since the day you stepped into my life. I keep saying your big heart is the reason I fell in love with you, but I don’t think you understand, or I ever said why or how. You entered my life when I was at my lowest, when nothing made sense. You gave me strength by fighting for yourself, you made me hopeful that things would be okay in future, despite everything. You made me want to live when I did not even know you. I loved you even before I knew it myself, but I knew this- you will always have my heart. Even when I knew I should not have feelings for you, I could not stop. Like a moth to a flame, I was attracted towards you. You accepting me was a dream come true. You said that you think it’s a dream? I also think the same, maybe we are still stuck in that jungle, and I never moved from that. Then I think- even if it’s so, it’s the best dream ever. So let’s just be in it, yeah?”

Few days later, the HAWKS girls along with Shikha was in Sameera’s mother’s house to finalize dresses for the function. Smita had sent some well chosen designers with selected outfits for her soon to be in laws, and Sapna, despite feeling overwhelmed, was happy for her daughter. Shikha arrived on the pretense of saying congratulations- they have received the card and her Mother had went on a ranting spree. Everyone felt awkward but the excitement soon overcame it and the women, sitting on floor surrounded by sarees and lehengas, went through them all, chattering with designers who patiently explained the fabrics and if will it suit them.

Sensing a gaze on her, Sameera looked up, surprised to see Abhi leaning on door, smiling at her. Her lips stretched onto it’s own, mimicking him, and they started a silent conversation about which dress to she should pick. He pointed fingers at some, made faces at others, and at one particular garish design, rolled eyes so hard that she laughed out. After that night, this was the time first time they were seeing each other outside work and she was relieved they still have that lightness with them, despite all the heavy conversations they had. When she recovered from her laughter, she found out everyone have noticed Abhi, and Natasha was dragging him to sit with them. He paused only to taking blessing from Sapna, discreetly handed over a small box, then sat sandwiched between Sameera and Disha.

“Now pick outfits for all of us.” Disha demanded, so he sat there like an obedient, patient man, picked dresses for everyone of them and spoke with the designers. It took a long time and after a while even Sameera felt bad. His easy smile told her he did not mind. Once he was done, Sapna was the one to release him, and he exhaled quietly with relief. Squeezing her hand, he bade them all goodbye.

“Abhi dropped by something.” Sapna announced, and the girls minus Sameera and Shikha remained on the floor. Not that Sameera was not curious about what it was, but her Mother was stern- it was a surprise, apparently. The girls oohed and aahed at that, and Sameera almost missed what Shikha was mumbling next to her.

“He still remembers my favorite color.” It was a green lehenga Abhi had picked for her. Probably realizing what she said, Shikha covered it quickly with a smile, “He remembered everyone’s favorite color. What a considerate guy.”

Sameera tried to smile back.

Few days before engagement, unexpectedly, the HAWKS were told they were going for the college mission. National security and job was fine, but the timing . . .

“It sucks.” Samrat echoed what everyone felt but was too modest to say. Veer sir had left, not before giving a sorry look to the couple. Samrat had the same look now as he turned to Sameera, “Should have looked for the muhurat properly, Sam.”

But more than him, Smita freaked out. “No, no, no!” She was adamant on the function, despite the mission. “Just put a ring on each other and go to save the country. But this is not getting postponed, or canceled.”

Abhi sent a pleading look to Suryakant who sighed, understanding his wife and yet knowing in their lives, job comes first. “I don’t think that your or mind decision. It’s them.” His son looked like he can stand his ground, but no force is powerful in front of a mother who was ready to shed tears. Sameera was there too, looking at the ground and trying to disappear. Sapnaji was arriving any moment now to talk about function.

“Mom, we will be back in a few weeks. We can do it after that.” But Smita looked away, almost tearful. It was partly another canceled function in this house, and partly a voice which had pushed her for this step in the first place.

“Am I really being that unreasonable?” She whispered softly, and before the men could say something, Sameera stepped up. The former immediately latched onto her hand, “Am I?”

“No.” She whispered back softly, hesitating as her fingers hovered above her face, then brushing her tears away, “But the time is too short.”

“I won’t bother your schedule in any way. You two just show up during the ceremony, I don’t care if there is no party or you don’t even talk to anyone. Just do it.”

“Mom.” Abhi spoke up- this felt like pressurizing and he did not want that for Sameera, “Please, don’t.” A thick silence followed, and realizing Smita was having no support, something broke inside her. She really wanted this ceremony, and looked like duty came. That’s how it’s been for her, and that’s how it will be for her son. When she tried to walk away, Sameera held onto her both hands.

“Abhi.” Sameera asked, “Are you okay if I say we should have this engagement on the day it was decided?” Smita gripped her hand in a renewed hope, shooting a look to Suryakant. He looked back curiously.

“The timing is too short. We have packed schedules.”

“Is it possible to have one evening free for us? HAWKS, support stuff, base members?” She pressed, “We can be back on routines the next day. Just for one evening, a few hours. Is it doable?”

“I . . . “ Abhi was torn, “I need to speak to Trainer Rawte.”

“Veer might help.” Smita piped up, now smiling beatifically.

“Your mother is right. Try, if it’s too awkward maybe I can put in a word?” Surya backed is wife, and suddenly everyone was smiling at this new hope.

“I am not promising anything.” Abhi tried to be stern, but he never had a choice in front of the two women standing in front of him.

Everyone knew this was happening.

It was the night of engagement, and a rather chaotic one in Rathore residence. If a person who can be excited, paranoid and in frenzy, it would be Smita. She would demand the best of best for every small decoration pieces and big ones, drag Suryakant everywhere till the point he would glare at her whenever she demanded something, call Abhi for hundred of times to ask for opinion. Abhi, getting ready in his home for the big night, laughed to himself, thinking fondly about his Mother. Probably a function is supposed to be like this- chaotic, looking like nothing make sense, but happy. He himself can’t stop smiling from past few days.

He went downstairs only to find Smita fussing over Suryakant- he did not wear a tie, and she won’t let him step outside even for second without proper dress. “At least tonight don’t give me grief.”

“What about the other days you have given me grief?” He asked dryly, secretly enjoying his wife glaring at him and fixing his clothes as if he is a child. In reply, she looked at him, arching an eyebrow.

“Are you trying to say handling your only son’s engagement function is grief?” Her voice was icy, and knowing there was no heat in those words and nothing he can say in comeback, Surya looked away, rolling eyes. Finding Abhi in front of him, he smiled.

“Man of the evening.” Then Smita was fixed on her son, and sensing the opening, he walked away.

The soon to be in laws party arrived, accompanied by HAWKS team mates minus Samrat as they bantered at the entrance about who came from boy’s side and who from girl’s. Abhi could not take eyes off Sameera, never having seen her in something that traditional, looking beautiful and glowing. If others saw him awestruck and teased him, he did not care. He whispered compliments in her ear to which she blushed, murmuring same for him. Then, they were separated- on the pretense of meeting other people, to have last minute makeup touch up, to do this and that- Abhi looked forward to the actual ceremony, glancing now and then in his watch for the hour to arrive already.

There will be this tiny thing he would see that night, but in the events of what came next, he will forget for a long time. He was looking for Sameera- wanting to steal a few moments tonight surrounded by hundreds of people, personally compliment her better. Their house had so many houses and corners that he almost forgot where he was heading, but stopped only when he heard familiar voices.

“Please, give it on your behalf.” It was Veer sir. Abhi did not know when the man arrived, or if he had company. They had sent the card and his Mom really hoped only Veer arrived- she could not stand Sunaina or even one word of snark from her side on this lovely occasion, she had threatened.

“This is expensive. I should not take it.” Sapna sounded cold, and this was a shock because she was never like this. Abhi wondered why would she use that tone with Sir, who was also a senior of Sameera and she always admired her so much. He had half a mind to go closer, but decided against it- the fact that he was eavesdropping was bad enough.

“I insist.” He requested, and she sighed.

“On what right?”

“Tell her it’s from her Father.” There was silence from both side, and it felt like Sapna had taken whatever it was Veer gave her.

“Thank you.”

“I should not do it.”

“This is the least I can do.”

There was a sudden bang of utensils falling on ground startled the three of them, followed by a loud yell from one of the event planners. Abhi quietly slipped away at the diversion, frowning at whatever he heard. So Veer sir wanted to give Sameera something, but why not give her himself? And it’s expensive, is it the reason Sapna aunty was so cold towards him? Something about this nagged at him- he still can’t pin point when Veer sir developed such bonding with Sameera. He was distraught when she was in hospital, always blessed her and encouraged her afterwards. Abhi did not see Sir looking at her any differently after his and her relationship came in front of everyone. He really cares about her- Abhi did not now when or how. But he figured, this was part of Sameera. People ends up caring about her at any point of time, just like Natasha started to warm upto her.

He was heading towards the function again- pretty sure his Mom will call him if he was gone any longer, when he heard someone calling out his name, “Abhi!” His head whipped at that, and saw Sameera’s head peeking out from a half opened door, grinning sheepishly. He walked near her, a confused frown between his brows even though he smiled back.

“What are you doing here?”

“Good that you are here!” They spoke at the same time, and realizing that burst into laughter like small kids, “Abhi, please can you call Maa, or Disha, or Natasha, or any woman who’s around?”

“And why so?”

“Because I need help.” He saw behind her at the dark room, and how she was purposely hiding behind the door. Suddenly panicked, his eyes widened.

“Is it the dress? Did it tear or something?”

“Oh god, no!” She replied, calming him down, “But good to know you are so worried about my dress.”

“I picked it.” He pointed out.

“It’s lovely.” Blushing, she looked down, “Please, call someone?”

“Why can’t I fix it?” Teasing, he took a few steps toward her until only the door remained between them. Sameera looked like she will deny, but feeling playful, opened the door, surprising him.

“Try then.” Abhi stepped inside, switching on the light as the door closed softly behind him. At first glance there was nothing wrong with the dress- no tear, no peeking out hems or loose ends. Then she pointed at her dupatta- apparently it was supposed to be tuck around waist in a particular manner. She even handed him over some pins, and he got to work.

“Why can’t you do it?” It looked like she could have managed just fine. She exhaled loudly.

“Look at my nails, Abhi.” This was something he never thought he will hear from her, and he just paused whatever he was doing to stare back. She signaled at her nails and he did- finding them covered in stones and random designs which was in same color of her dress. She looked so happy, so proud at that moment that he had to smile back.

“Are not they pretty?”

“Very.” He agreed, working with the pins carefully so that it don’t hurt her. At times his fingers brushed over her skin, and she giggled, feeling ticklish. “Stop moving.” He tried to be stern, but the lightness of his eyes gave away. She blabbered on and on about the nails and how it was Natasha’s ideas, and how many hours it took and how it may get ruined if she tried to move even a different way, and by the time he was done, he put an arm around her and pulled her close, her words stopped. He was always so at peace in her presence- did not matter if she was talking about the weather or some nail paint about which he never had any clues.

“I think I should leave.” She whispered, suddenly shy under his appreciative gaze.

“Yeah, sure.” But he did not move an inch.

“The faster I go out of here, the sooner I will see you on the other side.” At that logic, Abhi loosened his arms around her, sighing. She quickly kissed his cheek, erasing that momentary frown of his face, “Thank you.”

“Welcome.”

“Come fast, I will be waiting.” With that, she took off, holding her dress with both hands as she almost ran. At his ‘Careful!’, she let out a giggle, and then she was gone.

Sameera banged right into Ali on her way- maybe Abhi did have a point to be careful. The man, bless his heart, was quick to hold onto them together, “Sam! Careful. You okay?”

In reply, she laughed. Nothing could dampen her mood tonight, and realizing it maybe her best chance to mend things between them, smiled at Ali, “I am fine. Sorry for running into you.”

“I guess your mind was somewhere else.” He teased. A comfortable smile followed as they started walking towards the hall, “I am so happy for you, Sam. Congratulations.”

“Thank you.” She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, “Will you mind if I cheat a bit tonight?” At his frown, she continued, “I am really sorry about the other day. I honestly did not mean to intrude or interfere. And I am apologizing because . . . I am so happy tonight.” She looked down, smiling widely, “And I will be never this brave again. So . . . forgive me, please?”

“Sam.” He put an arm over her shoulder, “There was nothing to say sorry about. I was a jerk to you, for no reason. So many things were going on, I lashed out at you when I should not have. You have always been nice to me, and I was rude to you. I am sorry. It will not be repeated.”

“Let’s just forgive each other.” She extended hand, and he took it with an easy smile, “Please know this- if you ever want to talk, just talk, no judgment or interference, you can talk to me. I can be that friend with whom you can share everything.”

“I think you are already that friend, Sam.” He assured, “We may not interact much outside the group, but I do know you are someone I, or anyone in the group, can always count on.” Thinking for a moment, he confessed, “And about Disha and me? Let’s just say we are working on it.”

“That’s good to know.” She replied easily, both of them moving again. On the way they were greeted by Samrat, who had finally arrived, with Shikha in tow. The moment he saw his best friend, he dramatically clutched at his chest.

“God, you are beautiful!” At Sameera’s laughter he reached out to hug, “Sam, I am so happy for you. You deserve the world, congratulations.” Dropping a kiss on her head, he moved away, only to find her eyes watered. “Oh, please don’t cry.”

“I should not.” She agreed, even though her voice broke, “If this . . . whatever Natasha put in my eyes, is ruined, she will be really angry.”

The men laughed at the comment, and Shikha moved near her, tentatively reaching out for a handshake. “Take deep breaths, it will make you feel calm and tears will not fall. Congratulations, Abhi’s choice look really good on you.” Then her eyes fell on her earrings, “Is . . .is it Smita aunty’s?”

Sameera touched her ear subconsciously, “I am not sure? Abhi dropped these by the other day.” Shikha nodded weakly, and it was forgotten when the men whisked away the soon to be engaged, blushing woman with them, teasing and complimenting all the way. Shikha just watched from sideways, trying not to look at her Mother as they stood under the same roof- she can feel the heat all the way from here. Sunaina was no doubt hating every moment, and yet she came here. It was hard not to feel pissed at Smita- how she fawned over Sameera, complimenting her outfit, how she introduced her to guest, how she just looked so happy- something she never did with her. And despite how many times Shikha told to herself that it was because her relationship with this house was a lie, that hurt and burn never goes away.

Telling herself to calm down, she headed for a drink. She arrived here, and she will see through tonight.

The ring ceremony went smoothly- in the end, the Rathores settled on a gold ring with small, tiny diamonds around the band. The two wasted no time to ‘put a ring’, like Smita had said, and was soon drowned in the oceans of congratulations from everyone. Samrat hugged Sameera and almost swept her off feet, and her giggles were the loudest in the room. Her Mother, sensing an opening, gifted her a box- a pair of beautiful bangles came out of it.

“From your Father.” Smita and Sapna took each and put it on her, and even though Abhi smiled, his eyes were on Veer who looked like he was trying to hold back his own tears. Amidst the guests, posing for photographs, occasional sneaking in snacks and dancing, a lot of time passed and soon Abhi found himself near the drinking section, asking for a juice. No alcohol-neither his dad had any tolerance, nor Sapna aunty liked it. When he sensed someone near him, he looked up with a smile, hoping for another guest wishing congratulations.

It was Shikha.

“Great party.” She leaned against the counter, and even through his own haze of happiness he could see she was uncomfortable. A rush of sympathy went through him- he always felt like all these were too much for the Singhs, but not like he can have a celebration in his house and invite half the city, and not them. Veer sir was family, their families were close since the older men became friends decades ago. It’s unfortunate that their families could not become one, but he can’t cut them off, no matter how much it was discomfort it brought the two families. Besides, they chose to come, right? Maybe they can put everything past them.

“Thank you.” He looked away quickly.

“I don’t know how you do it.” At her cryptic line, he looked at her, then followed her line of sight to see Sameera and Samrat on dance floor, surrounded by their families and friends. “You know, the first time I saw them, I thought they were together. I even hinted Sameera that. How are you not jealous seeing them together?”

Abhi chalked it up to her mood seeing him officially getting engaged to someone else, cause in other circumstances this type of comment won’t fly. Especially regarding Samrat, who was a good friend and it was not fair to him that someone else pass judgments on him and his best friend. But it’s not like he can let it go, so he turned to face her fully. Feeling his full attention on her, Shikha looked at back, blinking.

“Don’t, Shikha.”

“I was just wondering.” She tried to pass it off with a smile, but stopped at his head shake.

“Then stop wondering.” Sighing, he looked back at dance floor, “I am secure in my knowledge on where I stand in her life, and where Samrat does. Besides, if their destinies were supposed to be intertwined, I would not be here.”

Shikha stared mutely at that. She was never the ‘secure’ girlfriend in their psuedo relationship- any woman give minute of attention to Abhi, and she will try to stake her claim. Show she was with him. Abhi never did it with her, even when at times she unnecessarily invited attention from other men. Back then, she felt like he was super secure, he had immense trust on her,or he may simply not care. Now that she know everything, she realized it was the last part, and also realized if you feel like staking claim on your partner because attention of other gender, there is something wrong with you. Sameera never raised an eyebrow or grimaced at Shikha’s presence, Abhi was never bothered about Samrat, who knew her before base and how they were always attached at hips. In her heart she knows Sameera is good, and good people deserve good things and all that jazz, but whatever this is going on was supposed to be hers. Shikha and Abhi’s engagement, Shikha’s soon to be in laws, Shikha’s ring. Not Sameera’s.

“And that’s how I know.” Abhi’s words brought her back to reality, and she saw Sameera ushering him to join. “Her eyes look for me when she is with someone else.” Shikha watched as Abhi walked away with a smile, his drink forgotten. Samrat, as if giving away a bride, put their hands together, made some comment to which she giggled, and the men hugged. A close knit group of friends who had only well wishers and cheerers among them- no malice, no insecurity, no jealousy. Clear lines.

The next couple of things would be seen by Samrat- because he has a reputation, and people don’t really expect him to observe. He was happy watching others dance in the middle of hall, grinning watching his friend being so happy tonight. Everyone was enjoying themselves- he was remembering when the Mothers was making Sameera wear bangles which was apparently a gift from her deceased Father, and how Smita aunty made a comment like she can’t call her ma’am anymore, aunty or mom will be fine, and how that made Sameera speechless for ages.

And then, the chandelier above them fall down in a blink of an eye, putting them into chaos. Samrat barely registered the few minutes before it hit- how Sameera noticed it first and pushed Abhi as far away as possible. Samrat had shield himself with his elbows and crouched down, and it was only when Abhi’s dad’s voice boomed through the shouting and panic, he got up.

He barely saw the black suited man looking here and there with a gun in his hand. A few minutes later his eyes met someone, and just when Samrat felt like he should pounce on him, the man turned on his heels and vanished in crowd, seemingly giving up whatever sinister plan he had. He filed it away for later, then got up and headed towards the area where the chandelier crashed.

Everyone was in hysterics, but more so was Abhi. He was losing it- and it was probably justified. Sameera, brave and equally stupid, did not save herself in time. A big piece of glass was stuck in her leg and she was unconscious due to the blood flow. The women were crying, Natasha called for ambulance, other guests gave them a wide berth, not sure what to do, also unable to leave.

Suryakant walked through the crowd, his cane clicking. “Get a grip.” His hand squeezed Abhi’s shoulder, who looked up with bloodshot eyes. The happiness they all were feeling a few moments ago was gone.

“Abhi.” His calm, composed voice made the situation feel like it can be pulled under control. Veer sir also came near them.

“He is right, Abhi.” Then he took a look at Sameera’s who head was resting in Sapna aunty’s lap, “Let’s move her, okay?”

“Abhi’s room.” Smita’s voice shook, but she brushed those quickly. In no time, she was carried away to a room, the elders cum Abhi following. The HAWKS remained, and realizing it fell on them to handle it, requested the guests to be there. Sensing an opportunity, Samrat slipped away, having this nagging thought in mind that that gun wielding man was responsible somehow. He was nowhere to be found, and a long time and lots of interrogation and intimidation later, Samrat returned. Suryakant saw him first, full of question and yet, choosing to ask nothing. Abhi kept looking at the door- doctor have arrived, Ali informed him. The two people who looked like they would be anywhere else but here was Shikha and her mother, and understandably so. But looked like Veer sir did not move, and under some obligation they also remained.

The moment Samrat filled in the senior men and Abhi about the man with gun, Abhi who looked like he did not know what to do till now, jumped into work like a possessed man. Checking each guest and their belongings, going through cctv, inquiring house staffs, sealing any and every entrance/ exit of the house, he chalked up a plan in no time. But the maniac energy subsided when each of the guests turned up clean, and he sat against a wall with head in his hands.

“Hey.” The team sat near him, and Natasha reached out to touch his arm, “It’s fine. We all did what we could. You gave it all.”

“I don’t understand why a man holding gun will come here. In this function.” Abhi looked at them as if one of them held the answer to his question. “In our function. In my house.” He ran a hand through his messed up hair, “I should have been careful about security. Should not have invited half the city. This would have been avoided.”

“Abhi, just stop.” Samrat’s firm tone made him look up, “You did no wrong, okay? Nobody could predict this. Besides, you gave my best friend the best evening of her life.”

“She is hurt, Samrat.” He said quietly.

“She will be fine. She was so quick.” At everyone’s curious glance, Samrat clarified, “Sam saw the chandelier first, pushed him away.”

“Like always, choosing others over her.”

“You are not others. You are her damn fiance, Abhi. Stop this moaning.” Natasha snapped, finally having enough of this situation, “Besides, this party had many guests. How can we tell the gun man came for you, and not for, say, Veer sir? Or that MP guest of your who’s a friend to your Mom? We know nothing.”

But someone in this group did know something, and kept quiet for their own agenda. Soon the group headed towards Abhi’s room- Sameera was conscious now.

Sameera woke up as if from a nice, deep sleep, and when she saw it was Abhi in front of her, she gave a smile, thinking maybe she was in his bed and it was early morning. But something did not add up- her body soon felt like it was too heavy, there was a ringing sound in her ears and Abhi looked at her as if seeing her after ages.

Then she remembered her own engagement function and how the chandelier crashed over them and almost fell over the bed to get up, “Is everyone okay?” Abhi caught her, giving a look between exasperation and relief, but did not reply.

“Everyone but you.” At Disha’s voice, she looked up and saw at least a dozen people in the room. Speak about the room, she did not see much of Rathore house, but somehow felt like it must be Abhi’s. She was soon swept in hugs from the mothers and friends, pat on hand from fathers and squeeze of hands from well wishers, there were a lot of questions on how she was feeling, if there was any pain anywhere, what did she remember, etc. The doctor who treated her was there too, and everyone was talking with him how she should be in hospital due to fear of concussion, the blood loss is too much, there had to be some other injury, as if Sameera was not sitting right there in the room. But thankfully there was no need for hospital, there was no serious injury besides the leg one, she needed to visit hospital tomorrow for a scan and other than that, she was fine. One by one everyone left, and when only Abhi remained, Sameera realized how others gave them the room and touched and embarrassed at the same time.

Abhi engulfed her in a bone crashing hug, startling her at first but soon she relaxed into the embrace. When she felt something suspiciously like tears on her shoulder, she spoke softly, also trying to ease the tension in the air, “Are you crying? Please don’t or else I will start too, and apparently, tears and eye make up makes you look like ghost.”

He shook with laughter, and moved to look at her face, “Now also you care about make up?”

“No.” She shook head, finally turning sober, “I guess the evening is effectively ruined now.” It was probably too good to be true, there had to be something memorable. Thankfully it was not that disastrous and nobody was hurt.

“Hey, look at me.” He hooked a finger under her chin, “It was a great evening. The best of my life.”

“Really?” Sameera smiled hopefully, and he nodded, then pointed at their rings.

“We did the ceremony.” She was lost in admiring their rings and how beautiful, fitting they look in each others fingers when Abhi asked, “Sameera, please tell the truth. Are you feeling fine?”

“I am.”

“No pain? You might have a concussion. And the leg, there was so much blood.” A thick glass had cut through a vein behind her knee and the blood loss was rapid, “The chandelier had so much glasses, you fell on the ground. There must be injuries.” Before he could panic further, her fingers were on his lips, shushing him.

“The doctor cleared me. I feel fine, really. I will go for scan tomorrow. Please trust me.”

“I do trust you. But you also have a tendency to downplay your discomfort.” She narrowed eyes at the comment and he sighed, “Please inform me if you feel even slight pain or any other issue, okay? Promise?” His hand rose like she did so many times, and she gave in, their fingers intertwining.

“I will. Now stop being sad.” Sameera whined a bit, and when he let out a laughter, wiped the remaining tears under his eyes. They talked for a bit on the function, avoiding the elephant in the room about how the chandelier fell or what Abhi was doing with others when she was not conscious. When her eyes felt droopy, Abhi went outside to fetch her mother. From the looks of it, her dad or none of the HAWKS told Sapna aunty about the gun man. Veer sir offered the mother daughter duo lift, but maybe Abhi had seen how Sunaina aunty went rigid at the suggestion, or how Shikha behaved earlier, or maybe it was his own need to be close to Sameera even when she was going to her Mother’s home- he politely turned down the request, scooped up the sleepy Sameera in his arms and headed for his Father’s car. It was a testament to how tired she was that she did not protest or moved, nuzzling her nose in the crook of his neck as they moved, Sapna in tow.

Abhi was about to bid goodbye to Sapna when he paused in their living room. Sameera was sleeping all the way and the other two already talked about doctor’s appointment and how Abhi will send a car from base for the same. Sapna, sensing he wanted to say something, waited expectantly.

“Do you want to say something, Abhi?”

He did. But he also knew this was not the time or place- they had an accident in his house, there was a man with gun who vanished into thin air, his fiance was hurt and they had an upcoming undercover mission days later. Getting into another thing without even knowing the full picture, and overstepping into unknown was not needed at this point. But then, he could never lie to the Shekhawat ladies for a long time.

“I do.” He admitted, “Maybe, someday. Bye, Aunty.”

Abhi dreaded the check up as much as Sameera probably did. He woke up in his parents house and rushed for his work, for the first time in life not really up for the job. Taking a leave was out of question, the HAWKS took the evening off just for the function on the condition to return immediately and they tweaked a lot of rules for that. Rawte will roast him alive even if he thinks about skipping one session, and he would be justified. Personal life on one side, duty on another.

His gut feeling turned true when, after a three hour long session on the mission, he got a call in reception. Abhi ran as if his life depended on it, and was not disappointed when he realized it was from Shekhawats. Sapna aunty called, and informed what he suspected all along. The injury was too much. Sameera had to stay back.

He went to their house in the evening. At first, Sameera would not even look him in the eyes- raked with guilt and blaming herself for it all, which was ridiculous. When he took her in his arms, her entire frame shook with sobs, and he felt his own throat clogged up.

“Hey, hey.” He cupped her face and made her look at him, “It’s okay. It’s okay baby.”

“I messed it up. I am so . . . “ Her voice broke. From the door, Sapna watched the two, her own heart aching. Sameera was crying all day after coming from hospital, blaming herself for the injury and function. She understood the blame and how her work will suffer- the job is supposed to be important, but she also knew there was nothing wrong. A freak accident happened, and thankfully nobody else got hurt. The doctor even said the injury was not that serious, in couple of weeks the bandage will come out and she will be fine.

Blinking her own tears away, she quietly closed the door to give the two privacy.

“Sameera, hey, look at me.” She did so, but immediately her eyes fell shut as he brushed the tears away, “You did nothing wrong. It was an accident, okay? Now tell me, what the doctors say?”

“I can’t go with you. It will take time.” Her voice became small, and she hid herself in his chest, feeling his arms wrapped around her, “I should have listened to you. You said to do the function later. I should not have forced you.”

“You did not force me. I wanted it too.” Abhi was firm. There was no reason for her to blame herself for this injury, “It was an accident, baby. Please don’t blame yourself.”

“But the mission.”

“We will figure out something, okay? I will talk to Veer sir and we will find out.” They rocked back and forth, “The important thing is you. You need to take care of yourself. Maybe you can join us halfway, won’t it be amazing?”

“It put a dent in the planning.” Sameera mumbled, making him sigh. But he needed to be strong for the both of them.

“We will figure something out. I promise.”

Samrat came to visit a few days later, making tsk sound at her red, puffy eyes as he took blessing from Sapna. The latter sighed, signaling him to maker his friend understand, then left the two alone on the pretense of making coffee for Samrat.

“Sam.” He patted her hair and sat on the bed beside her, “If you keep doing that, your leg might heal, but eyes on the other side . . . “ The mood lifted a bit, and soon Sameera tried to distract herself by asking about the upcoming mission.

“National security, shh.” He put a finger on lips, but cracked a smile at her annoyed expression, “It’s hectic. Rawte is the absolute sh . . . “ Stopping at her look, he rolled eyes, “I have barely time to eat or sleep, same with others. The whole backstory, mission, do this, do that, agenda for day 28, all that jazz. Now we are one member short, so there is added pressure. Veer sir is trying for a last minute replacement, but I doubt that will fly.” At Sameera’s crestfallen expression, he rushed to comfort her, “Hey, it’s okay.”

“I ruined everything.”

“Hush.” Samrat scolded, then deciding to make her feel better about it, started to share something what he had in his mind for a few days. “Sam, I did have another agenda today other than seeing you. I wanted to run this by you before telling Abhi or Veer sir about it, is that okay?”

“Sure, what it is?”

“You know Shikha studied in the Imperial college’s school wing from 7th to 9th standard?” The former’s eyes widened in surprise.

“She did?”

“Of course. Rich people and all.”

“You are rich.” She pointed out, making him snort.

“I did not study in Doon school for girls.” He teased, then sobered, “So I was wondering- we all are having all these backgrounds for entering the college, right? But she literally can enter any time thanks to being an alumni. She can directly be in touch with admins or access any documents if she has reason too, way easier than the rest of us. So I was wondering, is it too crazy to think she can help in this?”

Sameera remained silent for a while, “It’s good plan actually. But . . . “

“Good.” He blew air, “I get your worries. Veer sir, Abhi. Sunaina aunty will be a separate topic. That’s why I wanted to tell your first. If it sounds good, maybe we can tell them. If they agree, great. You can also convince Abhi using the new found fiance card.” He winked, and Sameera snorted at the comment, playfully slapping his hand.

“Prat.” Sapna entered at the exact same time, and was relieved to see Sameera better. After a few moments of chatter, Samrat left, the two silently communicating on the topic they just spoke on.

The next visit was from Shikha on one fine morning, and Sameera wondered if it was a social visit or mission related. Shikha was, kind of friend, helped during engagement alot. She knocked on the door, kissed her cheeks and politely inquired about her health. Abhi had picked her up apparently, and even though the two talked, Sameera’s eyes were on the door.

Of course the conversation veered into mission and Shikha’s involvement into it.

“Dad told me about it, and left the decision to me.” Shikha sighed, leaning back in her chair, “I don’t know Sameera. This is not my territory. I would love to help, but . . . “

There was a knock on the door, and Abhi stood with a plate full of small pieces of apples, “Special delivery from kitchen.” Shikha had to look away momentarily from the two- Sameera’s eyes sparkled and face split in half with a grin too wide, even Abhi mimicked it. There was barely a brush of hands somehow it felt even more intimate than the way he sat beside her on the bed, handing pieces of Apple. When Shikha looked at them again, thankfully they were focused on her, and she sighed internally in relief. Of course she wanted to go- a selfish part of her rejoiced at the alone time she would get with Abhi, but she also knew this was a national security issue and she will have a big role to play. She can’t let her feelings hamper her Dad’s work.

“We were talking about the mission.” Sameera filled him in as Abhi nodded.

“Abhi, I would love to help, but I am scared.” Shikha admitted, and if her voice became smaller intentionally, she did not care, “What if I mess up? It’s too big.”

“There will be intensive training. We will be with you all the time. We are not really expecting any danger there, just observation and co-ordinating with other intelligence agencies. We would not have to even be there if not there was a connection between one of our senior and the mission.” Abhi said, “I understand this is completely new and sound scary. If you are not comfortable, you can back off anytime. Veer sir left eh decision to me.”

“I am not scared for danger, Abhi. I am scared to disappoint you or ruing you guys hard work due to my naivety.”

“You will do great.” Sameera smiled in encouragement, then peered at Abhi, whispering, “Tell her.” So of course, he obliged. Even said please. Hence Shikha gave in, and had to witness the two getting lost in their own world even when it’s work related and she was sitting right there. The small things grated on her, and a part of her was so happy that she won’t have to see the two together for a while.

She was almost leaving when Sameera said something, making her pause, “You know Samrat told me you studied there. You two become such good friends, that’s amazing.”

“Sam . . . Samrat?” She tripped over the name, and thought about it’s implication all the way to her house.