Chapter 4

[MEMBERSONLY]

[NOCOPY]

Chapter 4(A)

Aniket gulped at the sight of the stalker as if it would wash down the fear building up in him

Aniket- V..vi..viiiiii

Sai - Virat Sir!! (Sai screamed out..it was concoction of relief, fear, anger and frustration). She couldn't believe the person who had instilled so much fear in her since last few days was her husband himself. 

Virat swallowed looking everywhere except Sai. Then looked up at the sky

Virat (in his mind) - Bappa please save me. This woman will definitely rip me apart today.

Aniket stood in the centre looking at each one of them by turn, not knowing who will attack and who would be the victim. He had sensed that Virat was not particularly very fond of him either for reasons known to him only. 

Aniket - I was going to the library, I don't know how I ended up here. I should go before it closes. 

Aniket sped off like he was never there without waiting for an acknowledgement from anyone. But not before he saw the death glare that Sai gave him.

Sai - Virat Sir, what do you think you have been doing? You have been following me.. scaring the hell out of me. How could you do something like this? You are an ACP, and you are supposed to protect the citizens and here you are scaring your own wife.

Sai was going on with her accusations and Virat realised that the Sai was not stopping anytime soon and they had started to garner attention from the people around. He pulled her towards him clasping his hand on her mouth to shut her. Sai was taken aback by the action and then in dawned on her that they were in public. 

Virat took her hand firmly knowing that she would try to jerk away, and took her to a quiet place. He knew this was going to be a difficult discussion, and before he could reason out he would have to calm her down. She was not currently in a state where she would hear or understand anything he would say. She was too angry for it 

Virat - Can you calm down Sai? I was worried about you. I wanted to be sure that you are alright. You were not even answering my calls. I had no other way to ensure your safety.

Sai was fuming. But he was unaware of her inner turmoil. She had never let anyone know and hence no one understood..even her husband. Even she couldn’t  understand her emotions right now. She was unable to understand the contrasting emotions that Virat was able to invoke in her. A paradox that the same person could make her feel scared and safe, two completely contradicting emotions. He was her safety blanket, her comfort zone, her protective shield, yet he had made her feel the fear that she felt had died. But she now realised that it was like dormant volcano which had spurred into action at the slightest of trigger. And she was vulnerable now to her own fear, to her own self!

But then she looked into his eyes, those deep orbs that were capable of drowning her whole being. His concern, his worry...his love...nope not love. She was sure of that. But he cared of her, more than she was ready to acknowledge. How could she not give in, give in to those heart felt words of apology and worry for her well being. Despite the tornado inside her, she felt herself melting at the very sight of him.

Sai - I'm capable of taking care of myself Virat Sir. You don't need to follow me. Your stupid games have given me sleepless nights. 

Though she was arguing but her tone had mellowed and was sounded feeble, and Virat was quick to notice and capitalise that slight breakthrough

Virat - Only if you had bothered to answer my calls, I wouldn't have been this worried. And I wouldn't have resorted to such means that are so unlike me. You forced me into these desperate attempts, because of your irresponsible behaviour. Why were you not talking to me?

Sai was ready with a retort the moment Virat had called her irresponsible, but then she didn't really have an answer to his question which sounded more of like a plea.

Sai was looking everywhere, but him. She couldn't afford to tell him the truth but couldn't lie either. After a little contemplation and probing from Virat, Sai finally spoke.

Sai - I didn't want to talk to you

Virat - But why? Are you still upset with me? Can you never forgive me?

Again, Sai was at a loss for a clear response. She couldn't let her guards down and confess. No.. She couldn't afford that. But she had forgiven Virat, infact the feelings she had now were beyond what words could  express and what her heart could contain or control. 

Sai - I have been busy with my studies (she said meekly)

Virat - So busy that you couldn't even return my calls? Was your concern for me restricted only till I recovered from my injury? Or was it just a sense of duty for you? Because my feelings for you are not bound by time or situation. And I can't believe it is the the same for you. Then why?

Those words hit her and had Sai tear up. She was unable to hold herself back.

Sai - How can you think that I don't care about you? Is that all that you think of me? Even though I may not have been able to forget everything, I told you that I have forgiven you. Why do you always bring it up? Like this is all my mistake

Tears were streaming down her face, as if all that was bottled up inside her had found its outlet. She was not in a position to bare herself to him, but her tears were a way to ease her from the pain for now.

Rest just happened in a blink of an eye. In one single stride Virat had moved closer and had Sai tightly engulfed in his embrace. He murmured sweet nothings to soothe her. He whispered "I'm sorry" on repeat while caressing the back of his head, while she let him hold her finding her own release and comfort in him. When and who broke the embrace was not known, but they had a moment of awkwardness. This was the first time they had let themselves into eachother, see a different side that they had hidden, even without words, they seemed to have spoken volumes. They sat there for a while, without a word spoken. Anyone who knew them well, would have laughed to see them quiet in each other's company like this. But it was as if they were comforting each other, confiding, confronting and speaking all that was never said... in their silence. 

Virat - It's getting late Sai. I'll walk you back to the hostel.

Sai just nodded in affirmation. They walked back without another word, hoping the distance was not so short and they could stay in each other's company a little longer. Sai spoke as they approached the hostel gate

Sai - Message me when you reach home Virat Sir

Virat - I will call you Sai. And I want you to answer the call. I want you to let me know anything and everything that is happening in your life, just like I want to share everything with you. Even if there is nothing I want you to still hear you every day. 

Sai nodded and they bid good bye to each other reluctantly.

At Night

Virat had not called yet, and Sai was getting restless. She had been constantly checking her phone.

Sai (pacing across the room) - What does he think of himself? Is he trying to take revenge on me? First he demands that I answer his call and then he doesn't call. Why am I getting worried? I'm sure he must be busy with Pakhi didi and he has completely forgotten about me. Why am I wasting my time thinking about him? I should better utilise my time in studying. 

She sat down with her books, but she couldn't concentrate, as her mind wandered back to her Virat Sir.

Just when she thought about picking up the phone and giving him an earful, her phone rang. Sai made a face when she saw the face on her screen with Virat's name flashing on it. She was upset with him for not calling her early, and while she was procastinating, the call got disconnected. She didn't know whether she was happy that she didn't answer or sad that she couldn't speak to Virat. Just as she was busy deliberating, there phone rang again and this time she's answered

Virat - Where were you Sai? I called you. I thought you again went back to ignoring me

Sai - I'm not sitting here waiting for your call all the time. I was occupied with my studies, and didn't hear the ring. (Sai was practically shouting to vent out her frustration)

Virat - Alright Sai! Why are you getting hyper. I was just asking why you didn't answer my first call. Just relax.

When he didn't receive a response he continued

Virat - How are you Sai? 

Sai - We just met a few hours ago. What could possibly change in this short span? And why do you bother? You were busy with your rendezvous. Now that I'm not there you have a free pass, and there is no hindrance. Why do have cook up this charade and insist on calling me? 

Virat - What are you even talking about Sai? I was chatting with Aai. She wanted to know about you. And I wanted to call you late so that I could speak to you at length in peace before sleeping. 

Sai - Fine. I'm doing just fine. Now I have to study and you are disturbing me. Why don't you just get some sleep.Good Night!

With that she disconnected. She didn't know why the thought that Pakhi would have been with Virat was bothering her so much. It was an equation she was well aware of. Then why is she not able to get used to it, and not get affected all the time. 

Virat on the other hand couldn't understand what had triggered Sai. He was sure that he had made some sort of progress with Sai and now she was back to behaving weirdly. What did she call it? Split personally. Yes that's it! This girl will drive me crazy he thought. But he was not ready to give up. He could never give up on her.

Next day

Sai was leaving for college, when she saw Virat waiting for her at the hostel gate.

Virat - Good Morning Sai!

Sai - What are you doing here Virat Sir?

Virat - I actually woke up late and missed my morning exercise. So I thought I shoukd take a walk with you to cover up

Sai looked up at him like he had gone crazy. Virat just ignored her and started to walk. Giving up she started to walk beside him. 

Virat - Sai, I was wondering if we can just go for coffee after you classes today

Sai - I will be late Virat Sir. I don't think I can make it today.

Virat - What about tomorrow?

Sai - I have to prepare for a test

Virat - Are you avoiding me Sai? I thought we have come past that

Sai - There is nothing like that. You should be getting late for work, I think you should leave. We can talk later.

Evening

Virat called up Sai and told her that he wanted to meet her urgently and he was waiting for her at the hostel gate.

Sai - What happened Virat Sir? I hope everyone at home is fine. Is Aai alright?

Virat pulled out a box and handed it over to over. Sai opened the box to see Modak and looked up at him questioningly. 

Virat - Aai made them today. So I thought of getting it for you. I know they are your favourite. 

Sai - Is this your urgent work? Seriously?

Virat - And I wanted to give you these clothes that you had left behind. I thought maybe you need them.

Sai - Where did you find these? They are old and don't fit me anymore. I had discarded them.

Virat - Oh! 

Sai - Oh? Is that your explanation for coming over here at this hour with such silly excuses.

Sai walked back hugging the box of modak, while Virat just started at her retreating figure. Virat missed the smile that came up on her face as she turned away from her

Virat - Plan Flop! Never mind. New day, new plan!  Atleast I got to see her. She looks so cute when she is angry. (He smiled at himself)

Next day

Sai was having her lunch in the canteen, when Virat walked in. He was in his uniform. He went and stood infront of Sai. He then glared at Aniket who was sitting next to her. Sensing danger Aniket promptly vacated the seat for Virat. As Virat took his place next to Sai her friends greeted him while she gave him an angry stare.

Sai - What are you doing here Virat Sir?

Virat - Duty calls. We received a complaint about the food being served here. So I came to inspect.

Sai - But does food inspection fall under your purview?  

Virat - I received a complaint and I thought I will check it personally before forwarding it to concerned authority.

Virat went on to have lunch with Sai. While he interacted with her friends who were thrilled to be in the company of a reputed police officer, Sai sat quietly trying to read his mind. She was unable to decipher his motives. She knew these were excuses, but she didn't know why he was using such means to meet her.

A day later (At night)

Sai frowned as she got a call from Virat.

Sai - What is it now Virat Sir? I told you I can't meet you today.

Virat - I'm sorry Sai. I didn't mean to disturb you. I just met with a minor accident and I was close by so thought if you could help me with the wound.

Sai panicked the moment she heard the word accident

Sai - Where are you now? I'll come over and take you to the hospital. Is there some serious injury? How did you get into an accident? Just stay where you are and I will come. Sai was ranting while getting her stuff together to leave.

Virat - No. Relax. It's not that bad. You can do the dressing. 

Sai - You never know with wounds. You need to be careful. Let's go to the hospital and get you checked as a precaution.

Virat - I don't think we would need that. I'm waiting outside your hostel gate.

Sai - Leave that to me to decide.

Sai practically ran down the stairs and her heart was pounding thinking about Virat. She was constantly praying that it wasn’t a serious injury. She was out of breath by the time she reached the gate and saw him leaning against the car

The moment she met him, she scanned him from head to toe.

Sai - Where are you hurt Virat Sir? I can't see any injury. You are scaring me. 

Virat pulled his hand from his pocket to expose his index finger with a very minor cut more like a scratch with barely any sign of blood. 

Sai - Is this the wound? (Sai stared in disbelief)

Virat nodded like an innocent kid

Sai - Why do you always try to scare me. You can't even understand what I was going through since you told me that you met with be an accident.

Virat - If you don't want to help me, then it's fine. I thought you cared, so I called you

Sai felt like pulling his hair apart, but then got down to attend to his scratch. She couldn't believe she was actually giving into his childlike games. Virat in the meantime was busy admiring her.

Virat (to himself) - What all does this girl make me do, just to get a glimpse of her? She is so concerned about me, but still refuses to stay with me.

Virat - I feel like I'm going to faint ( he acted as if he was about to fall down)

Sai got hold of him and helped him sit on a bench near by and sat down next to him.

Sai - Let me call a cab and take you to a hospital. Maybe there is some internal inquiry.

Virat - That's not required. Just let me sit down for a while. I should be fine. It's just work stress.

Sai - (Concerned) Is everything alright at work? Why are you so stressed?

Virat - It's just regular job pressure. But then I don't have anyone to share it with. If I had then atleast I wouldn't have felt so stressed. Someone to share my feelings, problems with…..

Without giving Sai a moment to react, he inclined his head towards her and placed it on her lap. Sai was surprised by his action and didn't know what to do. Virat pulled her hand and placed it on his forehead, complaining of a headache. Sai started to massage his head slowly, while Virat did a victory dance in his mind. This was bliss for him, how he imagined his future with Sai. Always together! He was determined to win her heart and call it his home. Only if he knew that he already had her heart!

But he had seen signs and that had built up his hopes.

Next day

Virat was surprised to see Sai's call

Virat - Good Morning Sai. Is everything alright?

Sai - Good Morning Virat Sir! Why? Can I only call you for some work?

Virat - No Sai. It's such a pleasant surprise 

Sai - I just called to check how are you feeling

Virat (trying to hide the hint of smile on his face from lacing over his voice) - I'm fine Sai. Thanks for checking. It felt nice to talk to you yesterday. But then I can't expect you to hear me everyday. So I should get used to handling things on my own. I can't keep troubling you.

Virat waited with bated breath for Sai to respond. He was sure that she would fall for this bait. But then she was Sai, she was capable of ruining his plans.

Sai - Why do you say that? I'm there to listen to you.

Virat - But you only said the other day that you are busy and can't meet me.

Sai felt guilty that she had not heard him and refused to meet him

Sai - You can call me anytime, when you want to talk or share anything. Don't keep it to yourself. I can always manage time to meet you

Virat - Are you sure Sai? I hope it is not too much of a trouble for you (While he sounded serious on the phone, he had a mile long smile on his face)

Sai - Yes Virat Sir! I'm sure. I will meet you in the evening. 

Virat - Thanks Sai! I will pick you up at 6

As soon as the call ended, Virat started to jump around like a lunatic on the bed. He couldn't contain his excitement. He had crossed the first hurdle. He now atleast had Sai in audience. Now he had to build a connect so strong that she would never leave him. But this was the most difficult part. He was going to be walking on egg shells. A small misstep could end up Sai bolting herself up again. It had been difficult to get her to talk, but compared to the mammoth job ahead, that seemed like a cake walk.

But Virat had nothing to worry. All he had to do was to bare himself to her.
The seemingly occasional catchup in the evening turned into a regular feature, with both looking forward to spending time together. Virat was taking his time to get to the real topic, because he wanted her to reach a certain comfort level with him. He didn't have to wait long and soon enough Sai had started to warm up to him. He could read her eyes, the sparkle when she saw him, the smile he now knew he was capable of adorning her beautiful face. He knew that it was not just him, but she too was affected by him. 

They had made a steady and quick progress, where they were able to share everything about themselves with utmost comfort and ease. However Virat's past, the current status of their marriage was something they had yet to broach. Each a little apprehensive about bringing it up, scared to risk the bond they had built. They wanted to cherish these times together, better to ignore and live in oblivion, till they can afford to and live their moments to the fullest.
It was during one of their late night calls that Pakhi walked in unannounced as usual. 

Patralekha - Virat, I just wanted to check if you had slept or not. I was not feeling sleepy and getting these wierd thoughts. I was restless and thought it would help if I could speak to you. That would help me ease out the stress like old times.

Virat was taken aback by the sudden intrusion. He was sure Sai had heard Patralekha and dreaded the consequences. He was yet to broach the subject with Sai and this could put them in reverse gear. But before he could figure out his next course of action, he realised that Sai had hung up. He felt all his efforts were thwarted and it would be even more difficult to gain Sai's trust now. The thought of losing Sai made him lose his cool.

Virat - Patralekha! Do you realise what time it is? Is it really appropriate to come into my room at this hour? You can't just walk in without knocking and that too in the absence of my wife. There are certain boundaries to our relationship and you need to understand and honour them. How many times do I have to remind you of it? I thought you are mature enough to understand these things. But either you choose to not understand or simply trying to ignore my warnings. 

Patralekha - Virat! How can you speak to me like that. This is all the influence of Sai that you are speaking so rudely to me. Just like her you too have started insulting me.

Virat - Enough Patralekha! I don't want to hear a word against Sai. Don't drag her into this conversation. I have told you to maintain distance from me, but you just don't pay any heed. Even if you are not concerned about your reputation, I'am..because you are my brother's wife and in his absence we as a family are responsible for your well being. That's the only thing that's holding me back right now. I'm treading on a thin thread. Don't provoke me Patralekha. I have had enough of this. I have made it very clear to you that I have moved on. I love my wife and I intend to spend my life with her. I will try everything in my capacity to ensure that she stays by my side. But even if that doesn't happen, we will never have a chance. That is next to impossible and I can never think of anyone else except Sai in my life. Period! I hope you get the message clear and we don't have this conversation again!

Patralekha was about to speak but the look on Virat's face told her that the conversation was over and he had said his final words.

She left the room cursing anyone and everyone she felt responsible for her state.

Virat on the other hand tried to call Sai, but her phone was switched off. And he knew it was intentional. But what he didn't know was the repercussions he had to face. Losing her was not something he had prepared himself for and had never accounted for in his future plan.

[MEMBERSONLY]