Chapter 7

[MEMBERSONLY]
[NOCOPY]

Chapter - 6

The eternal search

I wander in this space for times known,

Yet I yearn to have a piece of me still unknown

An integral of me, but not me

The voice to my soul, fly to flee

A face never seen and a note never heard

So distant yet upclose for vision blurred

Virulent to an existence that is complete 

Yet the very existence in absence is incomplete

Virat returned to an expectantly anxious audience back home. They were all gathered waiting for him to arrive and disclose his findings. While Virat had been preparing his speech all along. He was nervous, for himself, for Sai. Unknowingly she had started on a wrong note with his family. And it was entirely upon him to change the perspective, for his own sake. He knew no one should know about his personal interest as that would only taint his verdict in her infront of his family as they would only consider his opinion biased thereon. 

Bhavani - Did you meet that girl? What did she say? How does she know Nagesh? What did you find out Virat?

Ashwini - Vahini you need to calm down. Give him a chance to speak. 

Bhavani glared at Ashwini for interrupting 

Virat - That is fine Aai. I know Kaku is worried. Kaku, I found out everything. And there is nothing like we.. I mean like you are suspecting.

Bhavani - And what does that imply Virat. Can you please be more clear. Tell me everything 

Virat - Sai is not related to Bade Kaka in anyway.

Bhavani heaved a sigh of relief. 

Bhavani - Then why would he leave such a fortune to her?

Virat - He knew her. She was more of a friend to him. 

Bhavani let out a hysterical laugh.

Bhavani - A friend? Are you serious Virat? What makes you think that Nagesh was friends with a girl younger than his own daughter? Do you even hear what you are saying?

Virat - I’m right Kaku. Bade Kaka used to visit this beach every evening to meet the kids of the orphanage. Sai was also a regular visitor there. And that’s how they met and got acquainted. He befriended her and found a confidante in her. Bade Kaka grew very fond of her. 

Bhavani - What kind of friendship are you even hinting at?

Virat felt bile run up his throat at Bhavani’s indication. He saw green at the very hint of anything inappropriate being hinted at his Bade Kaka or Sai. But he held on to his rising temper. He had to resolve everything and for that he had to maintain his composure. Samrat could see the various emotions crossing Virat’s face, and knew there was more to it than he was saying. That had to be left for later and he needed to support Virat for now.

Samrat - Badi Mami, Virat is not so naïve that he can’t even read people. He is an IPS officer. Please give him credit for that. He deals with criminals day in and day out. If he has reached a conclusion he definitely would have seen enough evidence to prove it.

That got Bhavani to calm a little, but she was far from convinced yet. She had already painted Sai as a gold digger in her mind. 

Virat - It is not what you are thinking or as any of us have been projecting her as. We know Bade Kaka was disturbed (Virat was carefully choosing his words. He was guilty and upset with himself for his inability in helping Nagesh out of his miseries. But discussing that at this point could turn things for worse. So he just brushed on Nagesh’s mental state without delving much into the past). She used to talk to him and he used to find some peace while interacting with her and the kids. I spoke to her, and she seemed genuine to me. She broke down when I told her about Bade Kaka’s demise and she was completely taken aback by the will. She wasn’t expecting any of it.

Virat went on to narrate his meeting in detail, meticulously leaving out the parts which would give out his acquaintance with her. He relayed how she was visibly very shaken by Nagesh’s death, her disinterest in the farmhouse and her version of the story of meeting Nagesh.

After Virat finished his side of the story, things had settled a little. Atleast they had ruled out the fact that Sai was Nagesh’s illegitimate daughter. That in itself was a great relief. But Bhavani was not convinced completely about Sai’s motives. She was still suspicious and wanted to be absolutely sure of any hidden skeletons. But most importantly she wanted to get the farmhouse back from Sai. Virat had informed that he had not yet told Sai about the clause, which prevented Chavans from taking over the property even if Sai refused it. That was a vicious trap that Nagesh had laid and it was difficult to break into for Bhavani. But she was adamant to beat her husband at his last move, posthumous. 

Bhavani - Virat, I want to meet her and screen her myself before giving her a clean verdict. This is a very sensitive thing and our family’s reputation is at stake. We need to be extra cautious with every move we make. So arrange a meeting with her here. But ensure, that she doesn’t get suspicious, and there is an element of surprise to avoid her anytime to prepare herself for this conversation.

Virat though glad that Bhavani was not outrightly disregarding his judgement, was worried for Sai. He knew what Bhavani was capable of and he had this urge to protect Sai. But he didn’t know how. 

Nagesh’s Study (The same night)

Virat was sitting in Nagesh's study. This was the only place that gave him peace these days. Lost in his thoughts, he was interrupted by Samrat who came looking for him.

Samrat - I knew I would find you here. I could sense your unrest, but didn't want to bring it up infront of everyone. What is it Shiva?

Virat - Nothing. Just life in general. And it's wierd ways 

Samrat - Stop messing around. And tell me what's wrong Shiva. You know I will always be there by your side. What ever it may be

Virat -  I don't even know where to start Jeeva. This should have been the best day of my life, and here I have been thrown into such complex situation. 

Samrat - What happened Shiva? Tell me what is bothering you so much?

Virat - I met her today Jeeva. I finally saw her again 

Samrat looked at Virat puzzled for a full second before it dawned on him. He went and hugged his brother before looking up at his face. Her could only mean HER!

Samrat - So your instinct won over any logic. Your feelings for her were so strong that fate got you to her.You met her. You finally met her. I’m so happy for you Shiva. Did you speak to her? Did you finally catch her name? When can I meet her?

Virat nodded hesitantly

Samrat sensing something amiss spoke again

Samrat - What's wrong Shiva? Did you lose her again? Did you not get to speak to her? Or atleast know her name? Don't be disheartened, we will find her.

Virat - Her name is Sai. 

Samrat took in that information and put all the pieces together. He now understood the implications. The girl his brother had developed  feelings for, the one who had captured his heart for over a year, the one he had yearned to meet, was finally there, but she turned up with such complex dynamics that could complicate the very future for them if they had any.

Samrat - Did she know, I mean about your

Virat - No Jeeva. I was shocked to see her. I just didn't know whether to believe my instincts or the doubts we had about her. 

Samrat - So what you told everyone downstairs was?

Virat - No Jeeva. I didn't lie, when I said she was a genuine person. And trust me when I say that it has nothing to do with my feelings for her

Samrat (Placing a hand on Virat's shoulder) I know you more than yourself. And I trust you. You will never give in to any biasness. Your morals and ethics are way too strong for you to act selfishly. But I also know how tough it would have been to go about the whole questioning after seeing her.

Virat - I can’t even begin to explain what I went through when I saw her and realised who she was. And to control my emotions and put on the stern face was something even tougher. What I had seen and known of her was all being questioned and the irony was I was the one chosen to prove my own judgement wrong. It had taken everything in me to stand like that in front of her, question her, test her, gauge her every movement like she was a criminal. But I did what I was asked to do. And she came clean on every possible doubt. 

Virat recounted the entire conversation to Samrat every detail that he had carefully omitted before. 

Samrat had tears in his eyes when he heard how Nagesh was broken and what Sai had done to bring that zeal back into his life. Till that moment he had wished well for the girl for the sake of his brother, but the account of what she had done for his Bade Mama made him like her even before he met her. So far her image was of what Virat had built and he largely credited it to Virat’s preferences. But now he could clearly see why he liked her. She was special, and he owed her for everything she had done for his Bade Mama. Something he knew he could never repay. Despite being Nagesh’s family they had failed, but being a complete stranger she had provided him the courage, support and love he deserved and needed. 

He already liked this girl and was eager to meet her.

Samrat - I can now see why you felt so strongly for her Virat. She seems to be perfect for you. This is going to be a bumpy ride, a tough one to crack with the complexities involved. But I’m going to stand by you at every step. We will get through this Shiva. You deserve happiness and I now can clearly see where it lies. And I will do everything in my capacity to get you your love, your happiness.

Virat hugged Samrat. 

Virat - I know that, even without you saying it. I can always count on you. But my only concern is Sai getting hurt. I don’t even know what she feels about me. And even before I have a chance, I stand the probability of losing her. You know Kaku, and our family. They dont completely believe my assessment of her and they will view her with suspicion. Sai, of what I know of her, holds her self esteem on top priority and she is not someone to take any insult at it lying low. Not that I want her to. It is one of things I admire most about her. But the fact that this will only widen the gap and bring in animosity between her and our family is what is stressing me out.

Samrat - Like I said, this is not going to be easy. But if you really like her you will fight for her. And I know my brother, he will definitely win her and this test of time.  

Virat had a smile on his face hearing those words of encouragement from his brother.

Virat - I will. If she reciprocates my feelings then there will be no stopping me. That’s the only affirmation I need. And I will take on everything and everyone, even Kaku. Failing Bade kaka is a regret I will take to my grave, but Sai will not bear something like that. She knows how to fight for herself, but I will always be there to safeguard, protect her at every step. 

Samrat - And I will be there for the both of you. Count me in. 

Samrat winked at Virat and then pulled him back into another bro hug. 

Sai’s home

It had been 2days since she met Virat and these 2 days had been painstakingly depressing for her. She missed her friend. The very thought that she couldn’t see him one last time and was unable to bid her one last farewell to him hurt her. The thought of never seeing him again, never walking by the beach again with him, not hearing that loud laughter that had his well maintained belly shake, the eyes that held so much pain yet only sought love only aggravated the pain. She may have been his anchor but for her he was a father figure, someone she had come to love and admire like her father. And that was indeed an achievement for anyone as her father had been her whole world. So touting someone to be close to that stature meant that he meant more to Sai than words could explain. She knew what Nagesh went through and she had an understanding what he might have gone through in his last days. The thought only increased the grieving. She didn’t know how to make him happy and content in his resting place. But she knew she would do anything in her power to make it happen. 

Virat’s call today had changed the track of her thoughts. He had informed her that his family was keen to meet her and if she would be willing to come over. She had agreed and he was supposed to pick her up from college the next day. Sai lay wide awake in her room at midnight. Her books were strewn across her bed, any thoughts of night study long abandoned. Some thing, rather someone clouded her mind ever since she had met him… again! The memory of that day was vivid and though she had never expected to meet him again, he did pop up in her thoughts once in a while. 

That day was vivid in her memory. She was taken by surprise when someone blocked her blow. Sai had chased the molester and had him down on the street, where she had started to beat him for harassing a girl. She was so angry that she didn’t realise that someone was trying to stop her. She had looked up, but he had blocked his face with his hand to protect himself what he thought was an attack on him. Well it was. Because Sai had expected him to be an accomplice. However, it turned out that he was a trainee from the academy and was only trying to intervene assuming the molester to be a victim. The moment he tuned himself into the true picture, she had seen the stark difference in his approach. And she had found herself liking, what she saw of him. Virat had taken things in his hands and his demeanour oozed command over himself and for others to take notice of his authority. But in all this there was a calmness, a poised way he carried and demanded authority. He wasn’t violent or loud, yet he was in complete control of the situation at hand. She had been impressed, of how he handled everything, without any fear of repercussions. He had left a mark on her, with his forthrightness, his sincerity, and his courage. Sai had wanted to meet him and thank him for his help, but her father had fallen ill and she had to take him to the city hospital. That had marked the end or as she thought, of their short meeting. Until, she met him in the most unexpected circumstances. He fitted the character perfectly that Nagesh had narrated to her. She could have seen a glimpse of it when she had first met him, and now that she has spoken to him at length. She could relate to everything Nagesh told her about Virat. And whatever she saw she liked. There was something about him that had caught her attention even when she didn’t have a face to the name. But now that she knew who he was, she was drawn towards him. It wasn’t his looks, well not completely, but the values he stood up for, how strongly he felt for them, but most importantly how politely and calmly he approached everything. So unlike her, yet so like her. She somehow understood his stand in not being so vocal about his displeasure about Nagesh’s state, because Nagesh himself had failed. Their conversation on the beach had left her wanting for more. Though they spoke mostly of Nagesh, she didn’t miss the resemblance, the twinkle in his eyes of his mention, the smile as he narrated a memory. Everything about him was carving a place for him in her heart. 

When she saw an unknown number flash on her mobile screen, she had half expected and half wished it to be him. Though she didn’t know if they would meet again when they parted, but with Nagesh’s will still a lingering open discussion she was hoping to meet him. When she heard the voice she knew her wish just manifested. Virat had told her that the family wanted to meet her. She was excited to meet them in person, after having heard so much about them. But she was also nervous about how this would go knowing the mean side of some of them. However, most importantly she wanted to know how Devyani was doing and she knew she had to keep her anger on check. What she knew already was enough to get her blood boiling. She had to get comfortable with them, before she started to dig in. The silver lining in all this was Virat. She was looking forward to meeting him again and spending some more time in his company. And knowing more about him, if Nagesh had missed something she was inclined to know all of him.

Next Morning 

Sai was an early riser, but today she beat herself to it. She took her time to choose her clothes, and dress up for college. Only that her efforts were well intended to the impending meeting with someone. Virat. A person she had barely known, yet known for so long, and well enough to take up a considerable mind space. Sai had never found herself so unsure and anxious. She somehow wanted him to like her, and she had never ever cared like that. Being the self confident girl, all her life, she had never been conscious of how she was being measured or  judged. She did what she felt was right. For the first time in her life, with Virat in picture, she was anxious about how he would feel or perceive things. Not the one  to mince words or project a false image, she still wanted him to like her for what she was. It somehow started to matter what he thought of her. 

(Medical College) Later in the evening 

Sai found Virat waiting for her outside the college gate. Both were careful to hide their excitement at seeing eachother. Unaware that the other mirrored similar feelings. Looking at Virat, leaning against his official vehicle in his uniform and his aviators, had a sudden string tug at her heart. She was unable to avert her eyes from the frame of the man who had not left her thoughts since last night. Virat on the other hand hid his prying eyes behind his shades. The moment he got a glimpse of her, everything around him had faded out of his vision. He had covered his eyes behind those dark lenses to save himself himself from any embarassment. He was drawn towards her, the way she swayed her way towards him, her smile when she first caught sight of him, the wave of her hand, the way her earrings played with her every step. Virat didn't miss a thing, every thing about her enticed him, captivated his whole being. All his worries about her meeting his family had been placed in the back burner. For now it was only her and he was incapable of thinking of anything else. Last night had been the longest one in his life, the anticipation of seeing her the next day had deprived him of any sleep. He had just wanted the night to end and for the next evening to come soon enough. Patience had been a virtue he was well bestowed with, or he credited himself for, until last night.

Virat extended his hand towards Sai and she placed her hand in his.The touch of her delicate fingers against his palm sent shock waves across his body. He held onto her hand for more than what would have been a customary hand shake, reluctant to let it go. Sai felt the firm grip of his hands and the fire that set in her she was unable to comprehend. Goosebumps rising along her body, she prayed that he wouldn’t notice. Nor the thudding heartbeat that were louder than drums playing her ears. Never had anyone made her feel so excited and nervous at the same time. The entire feeling was throwing her off the cliff. Unwillingly they let go off each other's hand. Virat helped her to her seat and then climbed in to his side and drove off.

The drive to Chavan Niwas a short yet torturous one. Both were dealing with a complicated set of emotions coupled with their apprehensions and fears. Virat admired her for her truthfulness and didn't want to guide her into a certain way of conduct with his family. He felt that he would offend or insult her by doing so. He rather hesitatingly interrupted their silence.

Virat - Sai, you may be meeting my family for the first time, but you know them far more than anyone who claims to know them well. I don't intend to scare you, but you may be watched and judged for every small gesture of yours. It is a sensitive situation for them and they will be very cautious around you. But you just be yourself, because that's where the whole truth lies.

Sai - I understand the situation Virat. And I don't blame them. They don't know me, and the peculiar circumstance that we have all been pushed into can drive anyone suspicious. So don't stress over it. We can take it as we approach it.

Virat - I also wanted to say that I trust you. I trust you for what you are, and for every word you spoke. There is not a ounce of doubt that I have about you. Unfortunately I can't say the same about my family.

Sai - Thanks Virat. That really means a lot to me. Despite the situation you have placed your trust in me. That really counts.

The smile they exchanged was like million words of assurance that they gave each other. 

Sai had heard so much about the family from Nagesh, that she knew each one of them like her own. For the strong woman she was she was unfazed by the huge family that welcomed her into their home. Yet she couldn't deny the overwhelming feeling that enveloped her when she felt a dozen pair of eyes closely watching her. The smiles that were measured and the eyes that watched her.. She didn't miss any of it. But her eyes searched around for that one familiar face, that was missing. Devyani. And she didn't miss the fact that Virat stood next to her. Symbolic in its own way, as if guarding her against an army that was his own family. 

Bhavani - Hello Sai. I'm Bhavani Chavan. Nagesh was my husband.

Sai - Hello Mrs. Chavan. I have heard a lot about you from your husband.

Bhavani didn't miss the sting in that tone. 

Bhavani - I'm sure they were not the best of words. 

Sai ignored her statement and continued.

Sai - Infact, I have heard about each one of you like I have personally known you. He loved you all so much. And I'm glad to finally meet you all.

Bhavani - What are you more glad about? Meeting us or the property you are about to inherit?

And there was the Bhavani, not indulging in small talk, something Virat had been dreading. He had requested her to not jump to conclusions and keep things cordial. But it seemed like Bhavani had no patience and she already made up her mind.

Sai - I'm not interested in you property Mrs. Chavan. I wasn't even aware of it before Virat mentioned it to me. The property may be dear to you for its family connection or any sentimental attachment. And I assure you I have no intentions whatsoever to take it away from you. My relationship with your husband was purely selfless and was not driven by any ulterior motive.

Virat knew that Bhavani's words had hurt Sai's self respect and her response was proof how much she valued it. She stood her ground and was not intimidated by Bhavani's overbearing personality.

Bhavani - So you say, knowing that we will still not have a right over the property if you refuse to inherit it. What a scheming mind? You will let them sell off the property and take the share from the proceedings given to the orphanage. That is indeed a smart move. 

Sai looked angry and shocked at the accusations leveled at her. She couldn't put together any of the things Bhavani was saying and hence she turned to the only person she knew who could clear the air for her. Virat stood rooted at Bhavani's outburst, unable to meet Sai's eyes, sensing the questions that her eyes probed at him. He wished he had told Sai about the clause in the will about her refusing the inheritance. This was not how he wanted this to be revealed. It all seemed to be going off the hook. And he had no clue how he was going to set the records straight... especially with Sai.

Chapter 7 - Connecting the links 

[MEMBERSONLY]