Chapter 12

[MEMBERSONLY]

[NOCOPY]

Chapter - 10

Policemen were everywhere searching through the entire area, torchlights flashing piercing through the pitch darkness and the sirens of the police vehicles parked blaring into the silence of the night in the jungle. But in contrast to the chaos around, stood two souls in the middle, finding their peace in their own cocoon. They didn’t realise how long they stood in each other’s embrace, drawing the assurance that they were finally together, safe and alive.

Sai opened her eyes to see Samrat staring down at them, and she pulled out of Virat’s arms. Virat gave a questioning look at the smile that broke out on Sai’s face.

Virat – Are you alright Sai? You have hurt your forehead. Have you hurt yourself anywhere else?

Sai – I’m fine Virat! Relax please. But I’m glad that this happened

Virat looked at her puzzled

Sai – I can’t even imagine what you would have had to go through, but everything happens for a reason, and this has culminated with the best surprise

Virat – I think we need to get you to a Doctor Sai.

Sai – Look over there (She placed her hand on his cheeks and made him turn towards Samrat)

Samrat was standing there observing them keenly, trying to decipher the equation between them and what could have possibly transpired in his absence.

Virat couldn’t believe his eyes, and the mere sight of his Jeeva alive had him rooted to the ground for a brief moment. He had always believed in his heart that his Jeeva was alive, he had never been able to imagine otherwise. But he was not prepared for this sudden appearance here. He walked upto Samrat and looked at him, to believe that his Jeeva was back, and standing infront of him in flesh and blood. He has already been through so much emotionally in the last 24 hours, that he was extremely overwhelmed, and Samrat’s appearance had him reeling into it more. He pulled a hesitant Samrat into a tight brotherly hug. Samrat on the other hand, reluctantly returned the hug. Virat was too engulfed to notice the aloofness, but Sai noticed that there was something amiss. While Virat bombarded Samrat with questions about his whereabouts till now and why he had not returned home, Samrat stood still not knowing how to react to this awkward situation. He turned to look questioningly at Sai who was standing close to them, and Virat followed his gaze and smiled at the realization. Sai smiled back and walked towards Samrat. Shock was an understatement when Virat introduced Sai as his wife to him.

Virat – It seems like you have been away for ages, and we have seen lots of ups and down during this time. Quite eventful few months it has been. And I missed my Jeeva at every step and had wished I had you by my side to share it with. 

Looping her hand around his elbow and rubbing his arm with the other, she tried to console an emotional Virat. She was the only one privy to Virat’s fears and sorrows and how he had missed his brother. 

Sai – (Looking up at Samrat, with a wide smile) Samrat Dada, I know would have been unaware about my existence till now and will be curious to know about my presence in your brother’s life. But trust me, I know everything about you. Almost like I have known you always! There has not been a single day, since we have been together, that he hasn’t mentioned you. I have enjoyed listening to all the stories and pranks of you two since your childhood days, that he would reminisce during our long late-night conversations. 

Samrat didn’t know what to say to this young girl who stood in front of him. It had only been a couple of hours since he had met her, but the way she called him “Samrat Dada” felt like she was his own. He had felt the familiarity when she had first called him also, but then he didn’t know who she was. There was something about her, the innocence in her twinkling eyes and her excitement spoke volumes about her pure heart. Despite all the confusion, she had managed to steer through and make a mark on him.

One of the officers walked upto Virat to inform that Jagtap and his men had managed to escape. They called off the search for now, and decided to devise a new plan to catch them

Virat – Let’s get you both home. Everyone has been so worried about Sai, and Aai has been inconsolable. But now we have not one but two happy news for them. Let me just call and inform them

Sai stopped him and told him to hold back the news of Samrat as surprise for them to see in person. They got into the car, with Samrat taking the seat next to the driver, and Sai and Virat settled at the back. Virat had been insistent on going to the hospital, but Sai was adamant that she was completely fine and wanted to go home. Virat had to finally give in to his stubborn wife’s tantrums. He examined her wounds and used the first aid available to clean and dress them. Though Sai was trying to keep him calm, but he was still anxious and worried about her state and was constantly seeking reassurance. She was feeling drowsy and weak and sensing it Virat asked her to take some rest. It was a long drive back home and some sleep would help her regain strength. Not that his fire brand needed it, but he could see through that tough façade. He made her lie on his lap and gently caressed her hair. And in no time sleep took over her in the comfort of her husband’s care. Virat looked at her sleeping figure, and all that he had passed in last 24 hours flashed infront of his eyes. He had gone through hell and died a thousand deaths, and he couldn’t thank Bappa enough for this new leash of life by saving his Sai and reuniting him with her. Seeing her sleeping peacefully in his lap, made him tear up. While he tried to get a grip on his emotions, a lone tear escaped from the corner of his eye, which he quickly wiped away. Oblivious, that the rear window had captured the entire scene, and Samrat had watched them, every gesture, every word, every expression that crossed his face, including the single tear that had dared to spill and the many that he was holding back. If he still knew his brother, then he could vow that he loved her, and she meant the world to him. Love seemed to be ubiquitous when they were together. He had never seen this side of his Virat. He had known him to be selfless, but he was selfish for her. But all this only complicated things for Samrat and it became even more difficult to decode the mystery. And he knew he had to prepare to face the family and their questions once he reached home

Chavan Niwas

The Chavan were eagerly waiting for Virat and Sai to return. Virat had called and informed them, and they were relieved to know that Sai was fine. However, they still wanted to confirm it themselves, especially Ashwini. It was like blessed with another life, after almost choking herself with the grief of losing her dear daughter. Bhavani had been venting out her stress, by blaming Sai for her carelessness and making the entire family suffer.  

Sai asked Samrat to stay back behind the door, while she entered CN along with Virat. For some reason, he could not refuse Sai and despite the inner turmoil he went along with her game plans. He was amazed at her zeal for life, she had gone through so much and narrowly escaped from her kidnappers, yet here she was smiling and bouncing back like nothing had happened. Ashwini had been waiting and the moment she heard the car approaching she prepared “Aarti” and welcomed them. She hugged Sai before letting her tears of happiness and relief take over. Sai wiped her tears and spun around like a child in her act to prove that she was perfectly well. Once she saw Ashwini’s face lit up with her antics, she went ahead to greet the others. But the moment she hugged Bhavani she burst out.

Bhavani – You made us go through hell and now walk in as if nothing has happened. You had the entire family worried due to your irresponsible and inconsiderate behavior. Do you even realize what was going on in our minds and how we suffered during the last 24 hours? And instead of regretting and apologizing for your recklessness, you have the audacity to laugh and jump around like a kid. 

Sai – Kaku, you think I would willingly get myself kidnapped? Do you think I’m insane? Well that you definitely think! (she looked down before speaking again) I know that I fell into the trap and I should have been more careful. (Looked up with a broad smile) But all is well that ends well. And if I knew that my kidnapping would end up like this I would willingly go back and do the same mistake again

Everyone, except Virat was shocked at Sai’s statement, who was trying hard to not laugh and spill out the beans. He knew his feisty wife would not spare him for spoiling her plan.

Bhavani – Virat, this “Jungli Mulgi” has lost her mind. She was “Jungli” and now this forest visit has only aggravated the traits in her. I’m right in her calling her so. It fits her well. Did you take her to the doctor? She has hurt her head and it seems to have affected her brain. She is blabbering nonsense.

Virat was caught off-guard and started to stammer for a response, but Sai stepped into his rescue. 

Sai – Kaku, I’m perfectly fine. There is nothing wrong with me or my brain cells. They are still healthy and smart like before. But what I found during the adventure is something priceless. And I’m sure you will also agree with me once you see it for yourself.

Bhavani – Stop your rubbish. I’m not in a mood for your stupid games. I don’t have the mental bandwidth to deal with you right now.

Sai – Kaku, atleast see what I found, then give your verdict. I can challenge, that you will be as pleased and happy as me. For once you will agree with me and my viewpoint. (Sai said proudly)

Kaku – Not in this birth! (She said with certainty) You can try as much as you want, but there is nothing that you can do to please me or change my mind. You think your innocent play will compensate for what we went through. No way. There is nothing, and I mean nothing that will make me think otherwise.

Sai – If you are so sure, lets bet on it. What’s say Kaku?

Kaku – What? Have you lost your mind? I’m not playing these childish games with you

Sai – Why Kaku? If you are so sure about yourself then why not? Are you scared that I would prove you wrong?

Kaku – We certainly need a doctor to examine you. You can never prove me wrong. And scared of you..Never!

Sai – Then what is stopping you from taking up the bet Kaku?

Bhavani thought for a moment and saw the intent eyes of the family fixed on her. She couldn’t lose to Sai, and retreating would mean that, so she decided to go ahead with it. And in the rarest case, if she liked whatever Sai was referring to, she could easily hide it and win the bet. It was all in her hands. So, it was a Win-Win situation for her. That would put Sai in her place.

Bhavani – Bring it on! Don’t tell me it is your candy floss, junk food or some ice cream. Let me tell you just lost!

Sai – Patience Kaku, Patience! Let’s fix the deal first. 

Bhavani – What deal?

Sai – If you win, I will do whatever you ask me to do and If I win you will do the same

Bhavani was a little hesitant about it and more so seeing Sai’s confidence, but she decided to play on. It was too late to back out now.

Bhavani – All right! Go ahead. I don’t have the entire day for this. It has been so stressful and I need to rest.

Sai looked at Bhavani and then the others, with a mysterious smile playing on her lips before ending on Virat who passed a knowing smile at her. Bhavani involuntarily gulped at it. 

Sai – Come in please! Its time for the grand hero entry

Samrat had been watching the entire scene from his hide out. There is so much that had changed here, and he could clearly see that Sai had a major role to play in it. And the biggest change he saw was in Virat. Samrat knew that there was always a different side to Virat, that he hid from the world, to please everyone around. He never really let his wishes come to forth, and always did things to please others, squashing his own happiness in this endeavor.  But here he was, laughing, smiling, enjoying life with his wife. The calm, serious Virat has been replaced by a fun loving Virat and only Samrat had been privy to this side of him so far. But why was he surprised. Did he also not give into her demands just now? He barely knew her, and he knew that she had struck a chord in his heart. He already felt a brotherly bond with her. But he couldn’t ignore the reason behind him leaving his home either. Virat And Pakhi. And he failed to decipher their current equation nor what had transpired the change of events. He couldn’t bring himself to forgive Virat for his betrayal. He had seen the love between Sai and Virat, but he wasn’t sure where Pakhi featured in this scheme of things. He was fighting many of his inner battle when he heard Sai call for him.

The moment he appeared at the doorstep, everyone went into a state of shock. They soon recovered, and were relieved to see Samrat back, alive. The only person who continued to be in a shocked state was Pakhi. She felt like her entire world and all her hopes had come crashing down. Sai handed the “Aarti thaal” to Mansi to welcome Samrat back home. Mansi hugged her son and cried her heart out. Samrat held his mother, supporting her, and leading her to a nearby sofa. He then went ahead and met each of the family members clearly avoiding Pakhi. Everyone was ecstatic, and the gloomy ambience that prevailed in CN a while back, suddenly buzzed with smiles and laughter. Samrat was being continuously questioned about his whereabouts, and he evaded them by saying that he will talk about it later in detail. After a while when things had settled and the reality started to sink in, Sai spoke up.

Sai – So kaku….

Bhavani looked at Sai and realized that she had been played out in this game. She tried to figure out an escape route

Bhavani – Samrat must be tired, and so is everyone else. We should all go and rest.

She started to get up and leave, but Sai blocked her way

Sai – No Kaku. How can you leave like that? Were we not supposed to decide on who won the bet? I will let you decide. So, tell me. Is the surprise worth it?

Kaku scanned the room, her attempt at seeking help, but she had none. She only saw the faces of her family trying to hide their laughs at her plight.

Kaku – Fine! You have my word. And Samrat is my son. His return is unquestionably the best news for me. So, what do you want from me

Sai – Nothing much Kaku. Staring tomorrow, for 24 hours, we will be the best of friends.

Everyone looked at each other as if they had just seen an alien. Sai & Bhavani had always been at loggerheads and had never agreed on one thing. How were they supposed to be best friends?

Bhavani – What do you mean? Stop talking in riddles with me? 

Sai – Seriously Kaku. This is easy. We will amicably co-exist here, and you will agree to everything I say and do as I say. It’s that simple.

Bhavani glared at Sai. If looks could kill, Sai would have been dead by now. But then this was Sai, standing tall against the growling tigress. 

Bhavani – What kind of useless conditions are these? I won’t agree to anything like this

Sai – This is cheating Kaku. See, Samrat dada, Kaku is not even willing to pay such a small price for you. And she says she loves you

Sai made a face, trying to hide her laugh. She knew that Bhavani was caught in her trap, and she had no way out. And she did a victory dance in her mind. Virat was enjoying the whole scene.

Bhavani – Alright! But it doesn’t start till tomorrowright. Let’s just take some rest. “Khandoba” please help me through tomorrow. Hope I’m able to endure the torture this “Jungli Mulgi” is planning for me.

Sai ran upto Virat and held his hands and looked into his eyes, and they had a private conversation without a word. The emotions and feelings relayed as they were. While they were having their moment, Pakhi stood there blazing with jealousy staring down at them. She was already irritated with Samrat’s return, and Sai & Virat’s proximity was only adding up to her pent-up anger. Virat looked at Pakhi, and she instantly as if on reflex, masked her expressions. He smiled at her, gesturing that Samrat was back and now she could move on and lead a happy married life. Unknown to them Samrat, was watching them intently. He had noticed the jealousy and hatred on Pakhi’s face and the smile that passed between Pakhi and Virat. But what he didn’t know was that it was a well-intended one. And this only triggered his anger. As inevitable as it was, Virat walked up to Samrat and hugged him, and the volcano erupted.

Virat – I have missed you so much Jeeva. Not a day has passed when I have not thought about you. How did you manage to stay away from us from so long? What held you back and where were you all these days?

Samrat flared up at these words from Virat and pushed him away

Samrat – You want to know where I was, when you were the very reason why I had to stay away from my home, my family? 

Virat was taken aback at Samrat’s outburst, and so was the family. But nothing prepared him for his next words.

Samrat – You ACP Virat Chavan! It was your betrayal that drove me away. My own brother backstabbed me. 

Virat – What are you talking about Jeeva? And why are you so upset with me? What have I done?

Samrat – You did what I could have never imagined. Where you not romantically involved with Pakhi? You were having an affair with my wife behind my back. Is that not true? Or you don’t consider it as a grave mistake

Virat was rendered speechless, with the entire family around, stunned at this revelation!

[MEMBERSONLY]