Chapter 6

[MEMBERSONLY]

[NOCOPY]

Note - Longer than long post alert! 🚨. Finally!! Done with the chapter. Didn’t want to create more parts hence have put them together in this part! Bear with me on that. Hope its worth it😊

[MATURECONTENT]

Chapter - 4(C) 

It had been an hour since Virat had dropped Sai home. But he had not called her yet. Sai was getting restless. It was a weekday and she had to be up early for college, and here she was awake, waiting for Virat's call. Finally she gave up and decided to call him herself.

On the other end, Virat did a victory dance the moment he saw Sai's call on his phone. It was a premeditated move at his end to not call her, and he was waiting anxiously for her to make the call. He was checking on her breaking point when her love for him would surpass all the procrastination. Changing the gears to align his tone to a sleepy one, he waited for a few rings before he answered.

Virat - (Faking a yawn) Hello! Who is this?

Sai was furious, that Virat had gone off to sleep without bothering to call her and she stayed awake waiting for his call.

Sai - Virat Sir (She practically shouted through the phone)

Virat knew from her tone that he would have been strangled if Sai could lay his hands on him right now. But knowing that he was at a very safe distance, he couldn't help but enjoy this banter. 

Virat - Sai..Is that you? Is it morning already? Is everything alright?

Sai - Are you serious Virat Sir? You were supposed to call me once you reached home. Here I was awake waiting for your call and you conveniently went off to sleep. How irresponsible of you!

Virat - Oh! 

Sai - Oh? Like is that your only response Virat Sir? I'm mad at you right now. How can you be so inconsiderate? Here I was so worried about you, getting all sorts of wierd thoughts and you have the audacity to act like nothing happened

Virat - You only said you don't have anything to talk about, it was late and you have to wake up early for college. So I thought why should I disturb you.

Sai was losing her mind, she was close to running down to CN and pulling Virat's hair apart and wake him up from his deep slumber. The idea of torturing him appealed so much at this point to her, to quench the anger she felt towards him.

Sai thought it was pointless talking to the sleepy head right now. She decided to pick this up the next day

Sai - Fine Virat Sir! You go enjoy your sleep. Good night!

And she hung up on him without even waiting for his response. Virat smiled at her antics, though he wasn't particularly very happy about irritating Sai, but this was a small price he was willing to pay to attain eternal happiness. 

Next day Virat was prepared for his next step..Mission ignore Sai! On the other hand Sai was waiting impatiently checking her phone every 5 minutes. On her way to college, her eyes wandered around to catch the glimpse of her husband. But he was not there. Sai was disappointed. 

Sai (to herself) - He was following me all this while and now that we have sorted our differences, he has started ignoring me. I was important only till I ignored him. Now that he knows my feelings, he doesn't really care. It's barely been a day and he has started to take me for granted. Its all my fault. Why did I have to give in so easily, that is why he is acting so pricey. 

Sai had expected Virat to call or show up in person, but he didn't contact her the whole day. He was testing her patience and she was on the verge of losing it. When Virat didn't show up or call till the next morning Sai decided that she has enough of Virat's avoidance and she was up for a confrontation. To know if all that he professed about his love for her was farce, if she meant anything to him.

Sai called Virat and asked him to meet up that evening. Virat was prepared for step 3 the final one - Make Sai confess! But this one was tricky and the most difficult one too. He knew that Sai was livid. So he had to tread cautiously or he could end up with a battered crown. 

Not a word was spoken between them when Virat picked her up from her hostel, nor on their way. Sai had a constant swollen look on her face, which would burst at the slightest prick.

Virat had taken her to a restaurant. They were directed to a quiet corner, but Sai noticed there were barely anyone around. Virat said that they were early and the place would get crowded during the peak hours, as he read her thoughts.

After they got seated and left alone, Virat broke the prolonged silence.

Virat- So is there anything specific on your agenda?

Sai was throwing daggers on him with her looks

Sai - What do you mean by agenda? Are you saying that you don't know why I asked you meet? Are you trying to play some sort of game with me Virat Sir?

Virat - How would I know until and unless you tell? You have been quiet all this while. You asked me to come over and so now you tell me what this is all about

Sai was gripping on to the last shreds of her patience. 

Sai - Fine! Why are you avoiding me?

Virat (Looking suprised) Me? Avoiding you? Why would I do that?

Sai - Then why are you not calling me, or dropping in to meet me, when all this while you were hovering over my head. Why have you suddenly started maintaining a distance? Have you lost interest in me? Or are you back with your Ex? My absence would have given you good opportunity to rekindle your old friendship

Virat - Enough Sai! This is about us. I have already told you the truth. Why do you have to bring in Pakhi all the time between us?

Sai - She has always been there between us.

Virat felt that this plan had backfired and now with Pakhi being brought up in their discussion he too had started to flare up. This conversation was not going as he had perceived.

Virat - For the last time Sai, there is nothing between Pakhi and me. She is my sister-in-law and a friend. Nothing more than that. I agree I had a past, but you can’t crucify me for that. I have been faithful to this marriage even when we were on deal terms. So now stop pinning us together. It is sickening and embarrassing for me, trying to defend myself for infidelity. You consider me to be so low on my morals?

Sai mellowed at Virat's outburst. She knew she had hurt him with her words, but it was her insecurity arising from Virat's recent behaviour that was forcing her into thinking this way.

Sai - I'm sorry Virat Sir, but what I have seen so far and how Pakhi didi behaves, there is little left to imagination. Anyone would doubt it

Virat - That is Pakhi! How can you hold me accountable for her actions? 

He paused and decided to clear the air once and for all

Virat went on to narrate his past with Pakhi, on how they had met, the misunderstanding that separated them. How they finally met during her wedding ceremonies with Samrat and how he requested her to go ahead with the marriage for the sake of Samrat. And in return promised her that he would lead a life of celibacy, and not fall in love with anyone in his lifetime. 

Virat - But then, matters of heart cannot be governed by any logic or promise. It follows its own tune which cannot be tamed or controlled. And that's how you captured my heart and I fell in love with you. Since the day  of Samrat's wedding, I have considered Pakhi only as his wife and a friend of mine. No other thoughts have crossed my mind. I wouldn't deny that initially it pained, to get over it. But now, giving due respect to Pakhi, when I think about it, I doubt if my feelings could even have been termed as love. It was possibly an attraction towards a like minded person. A strong attraction..guess that was the reality of those feelings that I confused with love. It's only after meeting you, after knowing you, that I experienced true love. And that's when I was able to differentiate, and realise the true meaning love, experience the feeling of being in love. I understand that Pakhi's behaviour is unacceptable and it borders on moral grounds. I feel guilty, that you are subjected to her hatred, because I'm the reason for it. Though I have clearly stated my feelings for you and warned her to not cross the line, and disrupt the cordiality of our relationship, I cannot go completely be rude or ignore her. I feel guilty for her state, but most importantly she is our responsibility as a family, in Samrat's absence. I understand that I have failed you on many occasions, but it was not because I didn’t feel for you or didn’t see the truth and definitely not to give Pakhi a leverage. I cannot have any sort of expectations from her, that not my place. But I can have that with you. Its only because I feel that you would understand and as husband and wife, I can take certain liberties with you, to cease the fire or diffuse a tense situation. I know that in this I have taken you for granted, but the intention was never to disrespect you. I can never do that. I'm sorry for all that you had to go through due to my complex past and it's repercussions on my present. You had to face the brunt of it all.

Sai was in tears at the feeling of being loved and considered as one. The right with which he took the liberties, did cross the lines and did step on her self respect many a times, hurting her, but she also saw that it was only because he considered her his own, like no one else. That did ease some the pain off from those memories of disrespect.

They continued with a candid discussion, pouring out their hearts, clearing up all the complaints, accusations between them. It was like seeing each other in a new perspective, that was completely transparent. 

After they had talked their hearts, and calmed themselves that they started their normal conversations. Sai realised the whole reason why she had called Virat over.

Sai - Why have you got me to this fancy restaurant? I'm not too fond of these expensive and exquisite cuisines and dishes. We could have just gone to some simple place, had some snacks, ice cream and..(realising that she was supposed to be mad at him) You think you can impress me and get away with your behaviour? 

Virat signaled someone and Sai was surprised by all her favourite dishes laid down one by one on their table. He was mesmerized by the childlike innocence and the beautiful smile that spread on her face. 

Virat - So you were saying...

Sai stopped ogling at the food, and tried to appear indifferent.

Sai - You think by doing all this I will forgive you?

Virat - (faking oblivion) But what have I done?

Sai - Instead of apologizing and giving explanation you are now pretending ignorance. You are impossible. 

Virat was determined to get the most precious words from her today. He was finding it hard to keep a straight face when internally he was rolling in peels of laughter.

Virat - But what do I have to apologise for?

Sai had enough of this cat and mouse chase

Sai - Fine. For the past few days you have been following me to the extent I was constantly living in fear, calling and checking on me numerous times in a day, finding the most idiotic excuses to meet me. And the moment I ....

Virat - I what? (Probing her, eager for her response)

Sai - (stammering) I mean.. I mean..after you said those things to me

Virat - What things Sai?

Sai - After our conversation that day, you didn’t bother to call or meet me. You have started to avoid me

Virat - I thought you didn't like me following you.. Calling you. What was that you called it... Romeoness!

Sai - That's because it felt like stalking, since I didn't know it was you. You were acting creepy and scared me with all those antics. Because it brought back......nothing (She wasn't ready to share her fears from the past that had started to haunt her back, and also because Virat was the one who triggered it)

Virat - brought back what?

Sai - Nothing

Virat - So are you saying that you like the attention I give you?

Sai - I didn't say that

Virat - So you don't like it. Then why are you upset?

Sai - I didn't mean to say that

Virat - You are confusing me now. Do you like it or not? Just give a straight answer.

Sai (flustered) - It's just that I have got used to having you around. But it's all your doing

Virat - Aahhh! Ok. So you don't like having me around

Sai - I didn't say that

Virat - Then you do 

Sai was quiet, she didn't respond

Virat - So you do want me to be around you, call you regularly like a normal married couple

Sai just nodded without looking at him

Virat - But I'm still confused. You don't love me, but you want us to behave like a couple

Sai looked up at him with surprise

Sai - When did I say that?

Virat - What?! That we should act like a couple?

Sai - NO. What you said before that

Virat - Oh! That you don't love me

Sai nodded

Virat - So you love me right?

Silence was all the response Sai have him

Virat - See, I was right! You don't love me and you don't want me and you don't want to be in this relationship

Sai (irritated) - Virat Sir! How can you say such things

Virat - Because I know that's the truth

Sai - You don't know anything

Virat - Nope.. You don't love me.

Sai - Yes I do! I love you Virat Sir!

A wide grin spread out on Virat's face and he couldn't stop smiling

Sai blushed profusely when she realised what she had just blurted out. And the teasing smile on Virat's face was not helping either. 

Virat slowly got up from his seat to sit next to Sai, holding both her hands in his, looked at her, his eyes expressing his love for her.

Virat - I know you love me. But I was desperate to hear it from you. And I can't even express my happiness. You are quite a stubborn little minx. 
Sai, I know I have been wrong in putting you on the line of fire and hurting you many times, but that's because I don't need to be formal with you, I don't need to follow the certain protocols or some predefined conduct codes of behaviour with you. It's because I always feel you belong to me like I belong to you and that gives me liberties that I cannot exercise on others. You are mine, and I'm yours and we are one. I can be myself with you, without a mask and expect that you can read me even without words. Because I believe you will understand why I had to say something or act a certain way in a particular situation, not because you are wrong, but just to handle the situation more amicably. You are a part of me, your are me. Despite all of that, I admire and respect your individuality. Guess that's the beauty of this relationship. We are two different individuals, unique in our own way, with our own patterns and individuality, free to follow our own passion and yet we are one! Belonging to each other is not about possession or bondage, infact it's being the wings to the other in their flights sky high, while sharing the ups and downs together. But I will not disagree that I have taken you for granted and let you pay the price for my sake. And I'm sorry for that. I apologise for everything you had to go through for my sake.

Sai had started to tear up at his words. The love and affection, the respect the had for her, was evident in every single word and every single action. And she was melting away in it. She could now understand Virat a lot more clearly, on why he had behaved in a certain way at some ocassions. Not that she agreed or approved of everything, but she now understood the space he came  from. It's natural to have a difference of opinion and healthy to debate and put forward each other's opinion. All that mattered was the understanding and trust that lays the foundation of every successful marriage. That's what makes a couple compatible, and its not just sharing the same likes and thought process. 

Virat - Will you accept me as your real husband? I promise to love you and only you all my life. I will always be your support system and you will find me always by your side. Can you promise me your Forever?

Sai - I do Virat Sir! I love you more than I can define in words. My Aaba had been my world, and no one can replace that, but you have become my centre now, ensuring my happiness like my Aaba. They say that a girl idolises her father, and hence always looks for the same qualities in their life partner. You resemble him in so many ways. You fullfil all of it and more and I can't believe that I turned so lucky. You held me through the darkest phase of my life, like the only ray of hope. You became my light, my life, my love. I promise to be by your side always and love only you till eternity. And yes this marriage means the most to me, and is as real for me as it can ever be. 

They slipped into a comfortable silence, just revelling in the company of each other. 

Sai came to know that Virat had booked the restaurant for the entire evening, and she rebuked him for being so extravagant. But finally gave in and they spent their time talking and making up for the lost time. They were so absorbed in each other that they didn't realise how much time had elapsed. 

Sai wasn't yet mentally ready to come back to CN, though now it was all the more difficult for her to stay away from Virat. But Virat understood her dilemma, and respected her feelings. He willingly agreed to wait till she was comfortable and not push or impose his decision on her. They stayed in the car for a while after they reached her hostel gate. Bidding adieu today was tougher than ever before. 

When they finally decided to call in a day, and Sai was about to get down from the car, she stopped suddenly. Virat expressions changed from worried to curious to nervous, when he saw Sai stop and then stealthily look around them. He wondered inwardly what his crazy wife was upto this time. But he wasn't prepared for what followed. Before he even realised, Sai planted a kiss on his cheeks, and then jumped out of the car the next moment, shouting "GoodNight Virat Sir" as she closed the door. She ran inside the gate waving at him, without giving Virat any time to recover. As she rushed inside her room, closing the door behind her, sliding do against it, fresh tears started to flow freely. But these were of happiness, of all the love she was finding difficult to contain. And she smiled through her tears with content as she recalled Virat and their evening together. Virat stayed there in the car for a while, blushing at the recollection of the kiss, glad that there was no one to witness his tomato cheeks.

What followed was their daily rendezvous, their banters during the late night calls that lasted till one of them unknowingly fell asleep. The growing physical tension between them was palpable, as their encouters were limited to hand holding, hugging and stealing impromptu kisses. Though Virat longed to have Sai back at home, he was bound by his promise and he didn't want to push her either. Sai on the other hand couldn't completely shake off the memories of the past and go back to CN, but the desire to be Virat had started to weigh over it.

Sai was restless that night. Virat had called her to inform about the party in the honour of the officers who were part of the secret operation. He wanted her to accompany him to the event as she was his family. Sai was so proud and happy for him. But what was making her anxious was the other news he broke to her. Virat was supposed to leave for another mission the next day and he had casually hinted at the risk factor. The mention of another mission brought back the memories from the last mission where he was shot. She was scared for his safety. He had come over at the break of dawn to catch a glimpse of her before he left. They spoke for a while and Sai waved him off with a smile. But now Virat was privy to the fear and tears behind her brave front. He knew that she cared for him and she was breaking, but for his sake she had put that smile on for him, while she fought her emotions. The next few days had been pure torture with no contact for them. With no means of any update on Virat, Sai had felt helpless and on the edge, and every passing day seemed like a year. Every waking hour was spent with his thought, and a silent prayer for his safety. Night seemed longer as sleep eluded her and she could barely focus on her studies. It was not until the 5th day since Virat left, that she sighed a breath of relief. The moment she saw his name on her phone her heart had skipped a beat, and the way he called her "Sai" was music to her ears, like she was melting away.

Virat informed Sai that the mission was successful and he was on his way back. He asked her to pack for 2days and he would pick her up in an hour. Sai was excited to meet Virat after 5 long days, and the suspense was just fuelling up the adrenaline rush. She thanked Bappa for bringing Virat safely back to her.

Sai ran into the Virat arms the moment she saw him. The hug was reciprocated with equal or more intensity, conveying all the emotions and most importantly the LOVE. Sai had faked annoyance when Virat had refused to reveal the plan and their destination. But she couldn't hold on to it for long and they started off with their cute banters, with Virat narrating incidents from his mission and Sai about her college.
Sai was awe struck by the beauty, the view that lay before her, when Virat stopped the car and asked her to step out. It had been a long drive and taken them a few hours, but all the tiredness of the journey vanished at the mere sight of the serene picturesque ahead of them. Standing at the beach watching the vast sheet of clear sky merging into the blue waves of the sea at the horizon felt like a dreamy affair. Nothing could have prepared Sai for this surprise. Virat had brought her to a beach house owned by his friend that they used for their vacation getaways. The house has beautiful and the view of the sea from there was heavenly. Though Sai disagreed with Virat on not informing the family about his return and whereabouts, she gave in later. Virat was of the opinion that they needed sometime alone, to build their relationship and make it more stronger, and his family would never consent to it. And even if they did it would not be without a major showdown which would only dampen their spirits. He was adamant and Sai finally gave into his insistence. After the initial excitement had subsided, it was replaced by a certain awkwardness. The unspoken prospects of what they were supposed to explore as the next step in their relationship hung heavy in the air. The sexual tension and realisation of the inevitable evident in their eyes and was communicated in their eye contacts. After freshening up they went down to take a stroll along the beach. Virat had held her hand entwining their fingers, but the subtle touch was surging up the heat through their bodies. It wasn't discomfort...it didn't exist, that got eliminated between long back. But this was nervousness about territories unexplored, the anticipation about venturing into a new chapter, the next level of their relationship. As they walked hand in hand in silence the speeding up of the heartbeats resonated with the high tide waves of sea. After returning they had dinner served by the caretaker, who left promptly leaving the house to them after ensuring they had everything in place for the night. Post dinner they hung out in the balcony that opened through their room, for a while listening to the waves breaking the harmony of the quiet night. 

Virat - You remembered to thank Aai for the modak but forgot about the person who was thoughtful enough to get it for you. Don't you think you should have properly thanked the person for the "taste that was lip smacking" huh?

A witty retort died down in her throat, when she saw his face descend on hers, and slowly capture her lips. A kiss full of promises, that marked the beginning of their conjugal journey. Holding her by her waist tightly, crushing her into him, while she draped her arms possesively around his neck, symbolised the nature, of their relationship, the journey they had embarked. After breaking the kiss they continued to hold on the each other with Virat resting his forehead of hers and sipping in the intoxicating ambience. As if in complete synchronicity, they opened their eyes together and started at each other in daze. As he tucked a lock of hair that veiled over her face, he left fingers linger on her face longer, caressing, but the touch was sending an alien yet welcoming tingle through her veins. He gave a subtle nod, a question, a permission, and she gave a shy, nervous smile. That was all he needed before he picked her up bridal style back into the room. Virat had his own apprehensions to deal with, conscious about their age gap, Sai’s inexperience and the rawness of their relationship. And hence, he was slow and cautious in his ministrations, sensitive and attentively observing every minute gesture or expression that crossed her face. It was a slow transition through the night, from shedding off their inhibitions and fears and embracing the comfort and ease of their togetherness that was unique to them. A slow love making that marked their consummation as a married couple, spent in knowing, understanding and exploring each other. Turning another leaf in their Forever!

The next morning, Virat woke up first, with a content smile lingering on his sleepy face. He looked down at Sai who was still asleep beside him, tired from their adventure the previous night. As if on cue, Sai drowsily stretched herself, opening her eyes to the now Handsome face of her husband. He looked carefully at her for any signs of discomfort in her expressions

Virat - Good Morning Wifey! Are you feeling alright? 

While Sai blushed, from the flashes of the previous night, she shyly nodded in positive, and Virat took the opportunity to peck her lips. But before he could proceed any further, they were interrupted by a loud thud. Both of them drew apart, and Virat went out to look at the possible cause of the obstruction. Sai realised that the caretaker was back when she heard Virat and him conversing, and she saw that as her chance to escape and calm her nerves. She quickly jumped out of bed and rushed to freshen up. Having lost on the early morning make out session, Virat had been lingering around Sai like buzzing bee, stealing up every opportunity to get close to her. They spent the whole day talking, exploring the place and exploring themselves on various levels , opening up their layers, baring themselves to each other, that they hid from others or never spoke about. Yet Sai still held back on her one fear. Not knowing if it was the fear of offending him or if she was yet not there to let him see her vulnerable side.
The dusk only brought the extension of the previous night rendezvous, only with a more elevated level of comfort and passion. As they lay flat on their backs, completely blissed out, Virat turned towards her, his smoldering eyes, piercing into the deepest sanctuary of her soul, her existence, his lips just inches away, fanning her face with the warmth of his breath.

Virat - I Love you Sai. Thank you being the biggest gift that life has given me. I can never be thankful enough for having you as my lifeline.

Sai had tears in her eyes. She never thought that she would be blessed with so much happiness in her life. After her Aaba's death her life had come crashing down, with no family nor any hope or expectation from life. But here was someone who brought back meaning to her life, her reason to live, her everything!

Sai - I love you too, like I can never express in words Virat.

Virat smiled a content smile, wiping of the tears that escaped her eyes. This was not the first time she had addressed him by his name in the last two days. The love making had brought that out on instinct from her mouth, but this was the first time she called him so in a wake and sane state. He didn’t give her a chance to recover, as he took her to newer depths.

Virat woke up from the blaring alarm and was completely disoriented for a minute. It was still a little dark, so he switched on the side lamp and saw Sai fiddling with her phone trying to turn off the alarm. 

Virat - What time is it Sai?

Sai - It's 4:30. You can go back to sleep. 

She was about to get up

Virat - But where are you going? And why would you want to wake up so early on a holiday

Sai - I have to study, I haven't touched my books since we came here. 

Virat - You have the entire day, we are not leaving until tomorrow. And you must be really tired and need some rest. It was quite a busy night(He winked at her, conveying the underlying meaning)

Sai - (Catching the meaning to his words she blushed) I'm perfectly fine, I feel fresh

Virat (Leaning up on his elbow, examining her) Are you sure, you are not tired..exhausted?

Sai - Yes! I'm very sure. 

She said with complete conviction not knowing that she was falling into Virat's trap.

Virat - Well, in that case, I have a different plan for us. I know how to make the most of it.

Before she had time to understand what he meant or react, he came crushing down on her, and rest was lost to pleasure and oblivion.

Virat was the first to wake up. The feel of the precious weight that lay on chest, brought a smile on his face. He carefully moved a little to angle himself in way to catch her. Drinking in the sight of her innocent face glistening under the first rays of the sun peeping through their windows made his heart race with all the love. Just the sight of her sleeping peacefully without a care in the world, with his arm wrapped protectively around her took his breath away. The comfort of his embrace, the warmth in his arms only made her snuggle into him further and her tightened his hold on her and slept off again.

Sai had been very adamant on covering up for her lost time, and missed classes. That left Virat brooding with a long face the whole day. As the night fell, he had become impatient, with the realisation that their short escapade was drawing to an end. Sai looked up from the sofa where she sat surrounded by books, to see Virat eyeing her closely like a predator, but she knew that look far too well now. He was scheming she knew, but then he was quick for her reflexes. He vaulted without giving her time to escape, but he miscalculated, and his foot slipped with him crashing on the floor back first. He winced at the contact with floor, and Sai was quick to reach for him. Her giggle had transformed into worry and concern. The fall had brought an end to all his plans. Sai was insistent on him resting, to recover, and to be fit for the long drive that awaited them the next day. She gave his bruised back a massage and warm press and lay down next to him persuading him to sleep. But his thwarted plans only made him more irritated and cranky like a baby while he kept mentally face palming himself for his stupidity. He didn't realise when he dosed off from her soothing and caressing, with the disturbing fact that they were to leave at the break of dawn the next day.

Present day at the party

Sai and Virat were lost in their own world, when the cheering from the crowd around interrupted their chain of thoughts bringing them back to the reality. They looked around and as the realisation struck them, they stood there in a little awkwardness before they walked down from the dance floor. Sai was the first to spot Ashwini in the crowd, with the selfless love evident on her face. Sai had missed her terribly and rushed into her motherly embrace. Ashwini spoke the soothing words that calmed her emotions. Sai then greeted everyone else with utmost respect, though some refused to reciprocate the gesture. But watching Virat approach them they just acknowledged half heartedly. In all this Sai didn't miss the death glare that Patralekha was giving her. She was furious and her words just proved it

Patralekha - What are you doing here Sai? Trying to snatch up some limelight, encashing the opportunity? That's what you are good at.. always using Virat. Only the families were invited, and you no longer live with us.

Before Sai could respond, Virat broke into her defence

Virat - Sai is my wife Pakhi. Staying away from home does not change that fact. And as my wife she is definately the closest family and has the right to be here. I had invited her to be here as this day is very important for me and I wanted to have my wife beside me here today.

Patralekha was shocked at Virat's statement, but she continued

Patralekha - She is just using you Virat for her own convenience, and you are not able to see her intentions. 

Virat - I'm more than capable of reading people and their intentions. And I definitely don't need your approval or consent to have my wife with me. Please don't force me to say things that I have to regret later. I will not accept any sort of disrespect towards Sai. No one can question her. You may have people in the family supporting you blindly, but I'm sure you are sensible enough to not take their words seriously. In their dislike for Sai they may have made certain claims, but you are mature and I expect you understand that no one can replace Sai's place in my life. She is my wife and she has that right on me that no one can challenge. Neither will I allow it.

Patralekha - (Starting to play her self pity tactic) You are insulting me Virat. What do mean by this? That I'm not part of this family and I have no right to be here? Then why did you invite me? To degrade me in public like your dear wife?

Virat - Don't try to twist and put words in my mouth Pakhi. You are part of my family, and like the rest, you too have a right to be here. But that doesn't give you a right to question my wife or disrespect her. 

Bhavani tried to intervene, but Virat knowing the turn this conversation can take, interrupted her.

Virat - This is a very important day for me, and I wanted to share it with my family. I want everyone to be happy and avoid any argument for today atleast.

That stopped Bhavani and the others. Soon the announcement was made where the officers were called upon and recognised for their bravery. Chavans were extremely proud of Virat and they expressed it well for others to see. But Virat’s eyes only searched for his wife in the crowd and the pride in her moist eyes when he found her was all he needed to feel the completeness of this moment. It meant everything to him.

Post the recognition, they moved on to the winners of the other activities. Dance competition being the highlight was left for the end. Even before Virat and Sai's name was called out, people had started chanting their name. Virat extended his hand to Sai, she took it and they walked upto the podium, oozing the confidence and perfection of completely in sync couple with the constant smile playing on their lips..with the sense of being a married couple in every sense of the word. Ashwini, however was observing the envy burning up in Patralekha. She was delighted to see Sai and Virat together, but feared the storm that Patralekha's jealousy would bring about in their lives.

Virat introduced his family to his DIG, who showered praises on him, complimenting him, and vouched about his prospects at a promising career ahead. The Chavans were on cloud nine, but his next words just washed over the happiness of a few. DIG called him lucky to have such an intelligent and supportive wife. Bhavani and her allies could only fake a smile and nod in acceptance when he praised them for being such a forward thinking and supportive family to Sai and how they would be proud of their son and daughter-in-law. He proclaimed that he saw them as a successful, power couple who would be flag bearers of perfect modern age couple. While Ashwini, Mohit, Shivani, Devyani and Pulkit were elated by his words and approved of it, it was becoming impossible for the others to tolerate, especially Patralekha. Her seething rage was catching up and every one could sense it, but they ignored her.

When it was time to leave, Virat called out that he had to drop off Sai to the hostel. They walked off without a care, hands clasped and completely besotted leaving the rest behind.

Patralekha - Badi Mami, I want to stay over at my parent's place tonight. I forgot that my mom had called and wanted to see me. I will come back tomorrow.

Bhavani - Ofcourse, you should go. Though we will miss you so much. But we can't be that selfish. Let's drop you on our way

Patralekha - No Badi Mami. There is no need. You will need to take a detour, and that will be inconvenient. You all must be tired and I don't want to cause you any discomfort. I will take a cab home. Don't worry.

Patralekha hurriedly walked off before Bhavani could insist on dropping her

On their way back, Virat and Sai discussed the events of the night, but both were apprehensive about broaching the burning question on their dynamics and Sai's stay at the hostel. Staying away from each other was now a very difficult arrangement and each was struggling to voice it and come to a more amicable solution without hurting the sentiments of the other. They reached the hostel, but no one moved and sat in silence for a while, not willing to part yet.

Virat - I know we have a discussion that is long pending and has become quite pressing for me now. But I want to savour the priceless moments and memories of us together. So I will let you walk off from me for now.

Sai nodded

Sai - I know! But together we will definitely work this out. I trust us, I trust you. 

Virat smiled a meek smile.

Virat got off the car and walked to the other side to open the door for Sai. Sai stepped down and looked up at him, holding their hands reluctant to let go off each other

Sai - I love you and I will miss you. Thank you for the most memorable days of my life. Call me as soon as you reach home. I will be waiting.

Virat - I have already started to miss you. I promise I will call you as soon as I reach home. I love you!

Virat pulled Sai into tight hug, basking in the scent of each other, they stood like that for a while lost in the warmth of their embrace.

Oblivious to the fact that a pair of hooded eyes was watching them..watching them closely! If looks could kill then those eyes held the vengeance to burn them alive.

Chapter 5 - The ties of envy

[MEMBERSONLY]