Chapter 2

Bhoomi
@bhoomikauttam
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Part: 11
 
Aarav couldn't catch the signals. He reached home and called up the seller and their customer care guided him from computer the way he could sort out the problem. Aarav when was trying to take the messages about sorting out the problem he came across the company's tag line on the help desk? 'Get Global! Get the world right in front of U' Suddenly he realized the topic for his project? which he still hadn't worked on.. After sorting the wiring problem he sat to search on the topic. He recollected Sindhu saying 'U need to agree with the agenda U r talking for or at least feel connected to the theme to give Ur best Shot' Aarav felt somewhere he feels the topic of Globalization is one where he can feel connected and feels he can make something on that ? Aarav worked the whole day on the topic by searching a lot of data. Aarav's father too was surprised to see Aarav spending so much time in the house and not with his friends?  As what they saw he would do only one thing on his comp usually that was playing games and chatting or surfing different community sites... but here he wasn't playing?he had books, papers in hand.. and was totally soaked into serious work..
 
Aarav had finished his collection of data. He went to the college and his friends showed him the project they had made for him to use.. when Aarav saw that with animations and the effects, the  points and yearly graphs, he realized his made work was so much amateurish. But he did understand he had to add so much more. He had already said he would this time make on his own, so he didn't say much and tried to tell everyone his project is done and they can see only when the professor has a look at all the projects. Aarav later rushed home to make the changes. He was confused so much to edit and so much prcis points he needs to get to make different slides. He was tensed should he ask his friends for help? But they may spread it everywhere... Aarav never took their help but always was the one who ordered? but this time he can't... His father came in his room and Aarav looked at his Dad feeling remorse interested to even say 'Hi Dad'.. His dad looked at the slide and told him.., any help Son.. Do tell me? Aarav showed him his work and his dad said he recently attended seminar on Globalization with his clients and he has the brochure of that seminar with him may be the presentation too will be there? with his office staff? though its less on globalization in general but more stress on trade with India. His father told him he will ask his PA to forward that to him. Aarav was excited and he asked he would love to get it now? Aarav's dad said his PA has gone for a meeting on behalf of him. Aarav needed it soon as he had to finish the data, later to do so much more effects and all? He asked his dad he will himself go to the office and get it?  His dad smiled. For the first time Aarav was wanting to come to office on his own? it was Diwali laxmi pooja or a function when his father would have to force him to come along to the office. His dad told he would come along with him. 
 
Aarav didn't want to wait but get it done completely,
He wanted to finish his work as fast as he can quickly,
For his father the feeling was deep and was full of affection,
Helping him in his work his father felt great satisfaction?
 
Aarav and his dad reached office they got the CD and the brochure. One among the office staff was good in making presentations.. Aarav sat with him while he explained him the professional presentation made and the techniques used. Aarav was totally engrossed listening and looking at him as he was making those. Aarav saw the various presentations and also the hard work these guys use to put in. Aarav's dad was very glad to see Aarav having interest to learn something new. Aarav's patience level was very poor before but this time his dad observed he was patiently trying to understand. His father couldn't understand the reason behind this change? but he was happy.. atleast by this Aarav got to know few things in detail about his Dad's company's. 
 
Aarav reached home and his mother wanted to know what the Dad & Son r upto... Aarav wanted to work over his project and his dad knew it, so he took his mother away from asking more. Aarav sat working on the project and when he felt he had finished most of the work .. he wanted to get some idea about how the presentation looked. He called his dad through the intercom. And his dad and mom came.. his dad was pretty impressed and loved it.. while his mom said.. ' U were making a silent movie' Aarav and his dad both laughed loudly and his mother didn't understand why they were laughing?  
 
In the few minutes Aarav got to hear a small conversation of Sindhu & Harshad about him. Aarav wasn't happy with that and he went and was lying in his bed as he was totally tired, he didn't knew when he fell asleep? 
 
Next day he went to college and asked the boy who had made that project initially for him?
 
Aarav: U worked hard on it right.. Thanks? when I am making on my own. I realize Ur hardwork..
 
John: Oh.. Anything U can ask me. I will do if U say..I have finished making all of them ?
 
Aarav: All of them..?
 
John: Ya I am always told to make for U and for the rest of ur gang. 
 
Aarav: So U make so many presentation.. and they all cant be same.. Professor could catch it?
 
John: Ya.. I do make them different from each other.. I am getting use to it now.. 
 
Aarav got angry realizing why his friends r taking his name and making life difficult for other students? 
Aarav: John next time? Don't make for them as well.. Not for me not for them... I thank U for all the help till now U did for all of us.. 
 
John didn't take that thank u with a smile. His eyes and face said.. he wasn't happy but just relived may be slightly,
 
Aarav: U r upset with me..
 
John: I don't know? I am 5 feet and my abilty to talk or say against anyone is minimum... I don't know what I can say..
 
Aarav: I want to hear? and ?.. Don't be scared? BE urself.. (as he said this he recollected Sindhu)  U need not be sacred of me.. I need respect for myself? (He again recollected Sindhu had told this to Harshad.. 'Scaring others is easy; getting respect is the difficult part? Harshad U have my respect.. and Aarav is someone I am scared of..)
 
John: I had sleepless nights completing this work and my parents have scolded me, hit me for using the comp for so long hours? I wanted to enjoy my time but I was too stressed. Wanted to play and go out but I was loaded with all UR gang's work?. Anyways.. Aarav ?.. I have also gained few things.. I am sure this will help me in completing the deadlines when I get into job, I mean I already know how it is to work under pressure & deadlines.
 
Aarav hugged him as he left? Aarav thought he is getting a headache by two days of hard work and this guy has been working hard for so long ? not getting even a thank u ? his gang has become successful in scaring people which even an animal can do but hasn't gained any respect from anyone..  He realized the short conversation of Harshad & Sindhu about him was indeed true? In the college does any one seriously respects him? Girls really do? r they the ones themselves whom the college respects?? even they r among the ones who r not looked up .. Aarav's emotions and perspective was changing, suddenly emotions such as Hard work , stress, depression, frustration?. all these emotions had a space in his heart? he hadn't changed,  he only got to know these emotions do exist around which he was unaware of?
 
People don't change in a matter of few days,
People's perspective can change as new light surface,
Wisdom to know U have a heart and a stable mind,
A soul, conscious saying there is so much in U, which U have to find?
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Part: 12
 
Aarav wondered and thought about Sindhu and the way she had said? 'UR gang of friends r not Ur true friends'. He thought over what others can see while he can't? Aarav went in his car switched on the signal of the mike... His mind was worried somewhat confused, his heart had felt certain emotions so new, for the first time he felt a bit of pain not for him but for some one else? 
 
Aarav is growing; knowing people better now, 
Understanding emotions which connect us somehow,
He isn't making an attempt to change himself,
It's only that he is getting closer to the truth itself?
 
While Aarav was confused the signals were on and he heard Sindhu chatting with her friends?
 
Sindhu: Kadambari I am with U why u worry I will make u learn this 20 marks answer. U hate it I will make U love it. See u r very found of Samosa .. (Laughing) See this diagram looks so similar to Ur Samosa.. See this triangle in the centre and the parallels drawn above; think as if they r the fork U have kept to eat?. Remember when u have a plate and Samosa in it, u have the chana and the choley over it.. Think this description of the diagram is that it will fill the paper? whatever u have drawn just explain them? The green chutney over the Samosa which uplifts the taste; think is this formula which will make it very tasty so include them in . Now when its ready u need to taste it.. and focus how the samosa tastes with all of this.. so that's the conclusion? learn the conclusions derived and present ur dish..
 
Kadambari: Now I find this diagram very very tasty .. (she laughed and smiled) I will recollect this whenever I learn or write? seriously.. the triangle my samosa and the description of Samosa yehan fork wahan? hey Sindhu I love onions pieces over my Samosa.. where is it..
 
Sindhu cheekily smiled: oh ok.. what's the onion n all, they bring brightness to the look of the item.. so U also underline the important points and formulae in the answer which will give the final touches? make it look attractive .. By the way Samosa has to be perfect or else everything is a waste? draw the diagram with concentration?
 
Both of them were laughing and reading the answer... Aarav was wondering what kind of guidance is this? 
 
Kadambari: Hey Sindhu this statistics problems.. I forget the series of things to be done.. last time I solved half way and forgot I had to do the 'factor' in between then only I could get to the final answer?
 
Sindhu: See when u get the equation to solve... First solve the equation down using the formula of( a+b)2 and all those? whichever its there to solve it down.. Now suppose u get a final equation which U have derived. Now remember U need to send the equation ie. cloth to the factory.. i.e the factors that U want to write down? now make a series U want to make maxi dress out of it or a mini out of it.. that's the maximum formula base given to use and later the minimum formula to use? As u solve both now make a approximation.. How much it will cost... take out the approximate values in the end. 
 
Kadambari: Sindhu u make studies seriously very very interesting? I hope I clear this time.. I don't want a ATKT.. I don't want to fail? 
 
Sindhu: I know.. my brother is a below average student and I know how it feels to work hard every time and face failure; still u try so hard.. Nobody is as strong as U guys,,, not even the toppers? We may be called intelligent but the true guts are with U all? We can memorize things quickly and u all may not be able to do that?but that doesn't mean U all r not intelligent? u rnt any less than anyone.. So Kadambari use techniques to make the memory sharper .. It will surely help U to clear the paper this time? try methods to grasp it quickly?
 
Both hugged each other. Kadambari was very happy someone made her feel she was no less then any other so called 'scholars' of the class? 
 
Aarav laughed initially at their conversation and descriptions. Later Sindhu's words for Kadambari made him know though Sindhu is among the high scoring students in class she doesn't have an attitude to think she is better than most? but felt everyone is special in their own space? she cared for each of her friend and tried to make them as confident as they can be? Aarav realized her caring nature makes her so popular among her friends in her college. Aarav was driving home on reaching home he took out his books tried his own interpretation to solve and make the solution easier to understand for him. In this process, he learnt a large chunk of his studies. Aarav was a quick learner so never bothered to learn or be scared of exams, he worked only to pass, as higher marks to get admission was never an issue for him. This time he was working on his studies much before he usually did?Aarav's parents watched this change in him and were very glad.
 
As a friend there is so much to share, so much to care,
Even a small line, a word can make the whole difference somewhere,
For Aarav this kind of caring was a change than what he had assumed,
For him caring initially meant a hand to pull out someone, 
Now he realized it's a hope to say 'U r in ur own right Special to everyone'.. 
 
Aarav at night while having a final look at the slide remembered his mother's words saying a 'silent movie?'he felt why not add his voice to it? that will be another nice idea. He learnt how to record from numerous tutorial sites and recorded his voice to add in the intro of the slide show. Aarav was charged up with the response he will get from the professor. 
Next day Aarav made everything ready and reached college.. It was the time for showing the computer assignment, his roll call number came, he added those recorded files and later started the slide show. Aarav was happy all was working as he had placed. Still he could point out his mistakes here n there but hoped the professor ignores them. The professor saw and said, 'Ok' Aarav stood there feeling, what more will come his way? some more praise he knew his work was better in all respect than anyone? Professor said, 'Have U worked on ur own?' Aarav felt very hurt that is it that the professor feels he hasn't made the project, someone else has prepared it. Aarav replied with a lot of emotions, 'Yes, I made it on my own... First time...  I can tell u how I have done, which sites I surfed and all ?.. If u want.' His eyes were in pain? The professor went, Aarav too walked, he didn't wish to chat with his friends? he didn't want to show his emotional side to him... he walked and sat in his car feeling why did he listen to Sindhu and feel like working hard which doesn't give anything but pain? He switched on the signals, he heard Sindhu & Harshad talking ?
 
Sindhu: Harshad why do U roam with them, when u don't like their company..
 
Harshad: I don't want myself to be isolated. I know them from years right from my schooling days..
 
Sindhu: Aarav and the whole gang.. I never liked anyone.. 
 
Harshad: I can I am friends with everyone but Aarav .. I find sometimes funny he thinks he is the leader of this gang..but?
 
Sindhu: but? what?
 
Harshad: U know in 12th std I had made a slam book with questions and made everyone to fill it on the last day of college. 50 friends from our class filled my slam book? I was reading once and came across Aarav's answers? where the question was Qfriendship dated: he wrote.. I date girlfriends only? It was asked QUr friends: and he had mentioned some 30-35 friends ..including me.. Qclose friends: was the next one and he mentioned.. I am open to all my friends.. so nothing like close? I felt it too funny and also thought he regarded all of us as equal.. whatever for him friendship may be?  Soon I realized none of my 50 friends, none mentioned in their list of friends.. Aarav's name? and I was shocked? I guess Aarav didn't realize that nor anybody else? all wrote in that small duration of time and in reality Aarav's name didn't strike anyone? in the friends list.. Aarav is that lonely I felt that day?  and he feels he has too many friends they all are surrounding him.. I pity his state?
 
Aarav heard and he went numb.. Already the hardwork he put in didn't give any amount of happiness as Sindhu had achieved.. now this reality shock made him realize he surely is lonely ? What he is gogin through now he cant share with anyone.. he cant cry and bring out the chocked emotions out.. For the first time..he realised friends mean someone u can sit with and fro a while forget ur silly confusions, difficult situations and loneliness? He wished he had a friend like that?  
 
Loneliness is a state very dangerous & a situation all messy,
It can lead to lack of will power, depression; self-pity,
One has to realize at that time U have friends around who love & care for U,
U have to gain the confidence in U, That U have people who will stand by U
 
The meaning of Happiness now seemed to have changed? as he was Sad? he was Depressed ? Happiness suddenly seemed to be there in relationships which he had lost? or which were never his? his friends were there ... but there was no friendship actually? the lack of people to love u , care for u.. 
Aarav had none to stand by his side, make him calm down, make him feel he isn't alone he has friends who care?. Aarav was lonely today... a loneliness which money cant fill in? A void which he felt is at all sides? A vacuum around him with no one to feel Aarav we truly care for U? Aarav cried, he cried after a long and for a long time... He felt pity on himself... He felt he had no place in anybody's heart?  
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Part: 13
 
Aarav with tears sat in his room? he didn't wish to talk to anyone. His parents came in his room as he didn't have his dinner. Aarav's parents asked him what the matter is; his father knew his project assignment was today. He asked Aarav if the assignment went well? Aarav looked at him and said, Yes? he didn't say much and his parents could feel the pain in the faint Yes that he uttered?His parents came close to him and assured him, for them he is the best... His work is the best... they r truly proud of him? With the affection of his parents he was thoroughly touched. His mother was crying feeling terrible that Aarav is upset with some thing. Aarav loved the way his mother was loudly displaying her emotions, love & care for him. She even said the professor has no heart, couldn't he see how hard her son worked. Even though he had not told the exact reason, he had told only about his project wasn't praised, he felt the professor would be impressed, but looked like the professor was not sure whether Aarav really had made. His parents sat with him, made him to have his dinner and only after they felt he was fine they left the room?
 
Aarav was in pain as his heart was hurt but experiencing the pure affection and love concern of his parents it made him more emotional inside.. He never gave any importance to their thoughts in his life.. At a time when he needed someone to comfort him... Today they r at his side... He felt shameful of always looking down upon them when they had tried to come close to him and make their presence heard? He hated conversations with them? and bluntly rudely had asked them not to interfere in his life? but they truly have forgiven all the things and they love him the same way...  Aarav knew its only his family who will stick beside him always.. He recollected the day Sindhu had asked him, 'Don't U love ur parents?' and had given him their Kasam? Aarav realized now what she meant.. He realized she was in a better position to know the real pillars in his life? while he wasn't caring to think about them? He realized the importance Sindhu gives to her family and the way she helped Aarav against Smita for the fact that Aarav intervened to help his bro out that day.. Aarav was happy he has wonderful parents... their love had no bounds unconditional... He loved the fact that his father was as upset knowing Aarav's project was not praised as Aarav himself. He realized now Why Sindhu had shared her happiness immediately with her parents and how her dad had treated her with ice-cream. 
 
Parents after an age become Ur closest friends,
They r the ones on whom U can always depend,
Parents shower all their love, care affection so true,
They work, plan, argue & pray for a better life for U,
Their love for U remains the same even after U grow up,
U will remain a child for them and be affected by ur tiny tear drop?
 
Aarav felt guilty of a lot of things... and guilt never lets anyone to feel happy about oneself.. Aarav's heart was in pain with many things; knowing he didn't do anything for his parents ever, having no true friends around to share his pain, knowing he misused a lot of love poured on him? Aarav sat cursing himself, feeling he isn't BIG & Powerful... he was the BIGGEST FOOL?
 
Spending time with false notions & hurting ur dear ones,
Makes one feel so sorry and how can it be undone,
The guilt kills inside; U realize Ur mistake feel so shameful,
U feel U deserve no love but punishment, still parents remain merciful...
 
Aarav was feeling very restless, his daily routine was to watch TV or computer, late night long chats or watching movies, going to disco's and until his eyes get tired he didn't feel like sleeping. In these few days as he worked and stressed his eyes on the comp he had fallen asleep. Aarav didn't feel like watching Tv nor playing games. He went onto his community site on the net where most of his friends of his college were there. He also read carefully the scratch? where everyone called Aarav the rich Guy ? he realised none described him as a friend? He knew Harshad was right? he could see all his friends having many close buddies, while he was surely lonely.. Everyone were asking him about why he isn't coming to the disco, why he didn't play pranks , giving him ideas to scare others and made fun of all the people who were bullied by them before. Aarav knew he feels guilty of misusing these things? he had John's eyes which said, 'I was helpless U took away the joy from my life..' it was a very small issues still Aarav knew what hard work he had gone through. Aarav didn't enjoy any of the conversations there?  Aarava signed off from there... He switched off his comp and in a sec felt... Is this the feeling Sindhu would get when she was with him? Is it the reason she started to shoo off away from talking more or been with him for long??  He realized nobody really feels nice about him and consider him a friend. Filled with deep thoughts, emotionally upset state, he switched on the signal to know what Sindhu was doing at night?
 
Sindhu: Zubby can U see those beautiful tiny sparkling stars outside, sitting here watching them from the balcony it feels as if they have come here for me? to see me and heal me. The Moon there... he is the leader who guides them the way... he sits there and makes them know me well? 
 
Aarav too lied in his bed looked outside at the moon and the stars.. With his big huge room and vast glass panes the outside view was clearer and more beautiful with trees around as well? Aarav wondered if the stars really had come to heal him... he smiled at the false thought of Sindhu? he didn't feel she was talking sense? 
 
Sindhu: Zubby I have to keep U close to me, and I have to just look at this site? look at the moon, the stars, the space?. The shine of the stars which reflect upon me? that there can be so many problems, issues everywhere around, but smile. Smile Sindhu as life is beautiful to live on... the morning sun will bring better tomorrow? that God has planned for me he will never let me suffer? Zubby I think this... 
 
Aarav too was engrossed in her words; he too was following her? Sindhu's voice was the only thing which had captured his mind.. He felt as if Sindhu was in front and telling him and he trying to learn from her? 
 
Sindhu: This picture this moment of the moon in my front, the star shining to tell me to smile I take that in my eyes and I close my eyes?. I feel as if the beauty of nature and the positive spirit has entered my body.. I can't feel I have left off the moon and the stars... I feel with my eyes closed I have brought them into myself... Absolutely close in my heart.. ..now I can sleep with this moment and feel assured God's kindness is with me.. 
 
Aarav too had closed his eyes and also had felt as if he had captured the scene of moon , stars shining but along with it he had the face of Sindhu too along side which had felt as if She too got more close to him inside his inner self? he didn't knew why he was following but just like a hypnotizes he was going as Sindhu said?
 
Sindhu: Laaalaaa.. Laaa.. Laaalaaa Laaa.Laa Laa Laa Laa Lala..
Hmm Hmmm.. Hmmm Hmm naaa naa naa naa?
Sindhu was humming a tune and making her Zubby to sleep? after telling Zubby of her family problems she was letting him feel safe and actually talking to herself to feel she will be fine ..And she made her Zubby to sleep along side?
 
Aarav heard her voice and the tune she was humming a soothing feeling came out? He felt there was no gap distance between her and him. The voice was coming and touching his heart directly.. The confusion, guilt and pain in his heart vanished.. He slept with a moon star & Sindhu's pic stored in his eyes with a tune hummed by Sindhu echoing him to a pretty deep sleep? Aarav slept and had a smile on his face?
 
Aarav has understood a lot of emotions,
Now he felt the warmth of a close person,
He doesn't know what this all will lead to,
A new leaf in his life.. Aarav is heading to?
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Part: 14
 
Aarav got up in the morning and he felt absolutely fresh. He washed his face, got ready for college and came outside his room. His parents were watching him carefully feeling is he fine... Aarav smiled 
 
Aarav's dad: Beta theek hai... This smile on ur face relaxed me... (He kissed him on his forehead)
 
Aarav: I am fine Dad... 
 
Aarav's mom looked at him with love and kept her hand over his head assuring him, her blessings r with him always. The concern, love in her eyes for Aarav was touching, he knew for his parents there is nothing beyond him. They asked if he slept properly. Aarav remembered last night... how he was broken and with Sindhu's weird but cute talk and that soothing tune he felt as if she healed his heart and made him to fall asleep. Aarav blushed feeling how she described those stars n moon.... He was smiling in his own? and the tune was echoing in his heart? and he too smilingly hummed the tune? His parents asked him what is he thinking and why he is smiling like this? Aarav tried to divert the question? saying 'nothing?'
 
Aarav sat in his car and thought Sindhu had surely helped him to know more about life? and somewhere she has become his guide, leading him to the right path in life? whatver he has gained is not measurable but valuable? He smiled and felt sindhu is a guiding force somewhere.. 
 
Without actually guiding him the way,
She had helped him get his path,
Without walking along side,
She had guided him to the right start?
 
He reached college met all his gang friends ... he smiled at them... Shook hands, said Hi and was leaving to attend lectures... They were shocked and asked him why Aarav is behaving strangely.. Aarav told them he isn't behaving strangely; he is rediscovering himself in a positive light. He said, it was long he tried & was wanting to show everyone he is the leader ?but now he is tired of all that... He felt too lonely at the top? He wants to walk ahead in life and that's true?but in these years he didn't even know 'life' can't be just about 'him'.. It has to be 'life' surrounding the people 'whom u love & care for'... and 'who care and love U'...
 
Aarav: Guys.. U all have not done any thing wrong to me... to feel so tensed... main hi galat jaa raha tha.. I wish at least one among u would have tried to say this to me?   we r from school together... from years.. but its fine.. May be I wasn't able to let u all come that close and show me the truth... 
 
Among the friends was Harshad Standing listening to him. Aarav went upstairs each step he took; he knew he will not let his parents name to be spoiled from now on. He may not be able to get anyone's respect after the years of misbehaving but he wont let anyone disrespects his parents due to him from now on. The love for his parents had evoked this transform. 
 
Aarav was on a selfish trip for long,
Now he knows where he belongs,
He isn't living a life with none around,
It's a life with so many things, people that surround,
He has to give respect, love and care,
To get it back, for life to become beautiful and fair,
He knows life is a gift that his parents have given him,
He has to prove himself and make them feel proud from within.. 
 
The computer lecturer came and asked Aarav to come and show thi spresentation to all. Aarav went and opened the laptop and saw his presentation, he showed it to all and looked at his Sir. Professor smiled and told everyone, he was totally impressed by Aarav's hard work and surely it is one of the best project submissions given by anyone. He told Aarav he has shared this presentation in other divisions as well... Aarav stood there with the applause from all corners, he didn't knew what to say. He looked at his professor with a lot of happiness and emotions and said, ' Thanks U so much Sir, its my first presentation though I am in my final year, My first step.. I am so happy U liked my work' The professor held him close and said, 'Aarav if this is ur first step.. I am sure u can do far better as u progress. I don't know if u ever attended my lecture so this work isn't with any to my credit, but on ur own? Still let me say I am proud of U? Don't leave this here? get going? life can be tough ahead if we don't respect the base which says 'Nothing can be achieved without determination and will to work hard?' Aarav stood there listening with utmost respect; he knew they want Aarav's betterment at the end of it. He could see in the smile of his Sir there was a feeling of pride for him and a lot of love... Though he never had shown respect to his professor. He was absolutely overwhelmed? & felt guilty of playing with emotions of such nice hearted people? 
 
Aarav wanted to inform his parents about this achievement... He immediately rushed down, called up his parents. His mother asked him to come home she is going to first remove his nazar so that no evil eye falls on him? She kept saying... She knew the movie was very nice? ? In his happiness he would tell her he did this then tried that in the project? she said, yaa she saw she knows.? Aarav would smile as his mom didn't actually understand anything in the presentation Aarav loved her innocent pure love affection towards him... His father told him he is happy; as loved ones they can be biased but after the professor said he is assured Aarav has great future ahead? Aarav now realised the happiness that Sindhu talked about, surely what he is feeling now words can't express, money can never buy, the smile on his face is slight but in his heart it's stretched deep. He closed his eyes and as he smiled he thanked Sindhu? 
 
Happiness is not a material or thing which is easily available,
It's not in mere possession of luxury with a big brand or label,
Happiness is inner self celebration U have to search within U,
It's not costly or cheap; it needs truthful to soul and Be just'U'...
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Part: 15
 
Aarav was very thrilled and he shared his happiness with his gang too. Some of his gang friends asked him if he had a bet on it. Doubting did he do really on his own. There must be something behind doing all this. At the end they said why he worked so hard when he doesn't need to? 
 
Aarav: Ya.. Why should I? ..and why should U all work harder .. ? We can scare people like John and make them do our work? We come here to study and learn by ourselves not by hiring others to study. If that's not what we r here to do why to come here... We can sit at home and enjoy? no need to even come and see the faces of the professors which we did at least once in a month..
 
His friends felt he was doing the same for so long, suddenly why argue as if he is a saint...
 
Aarav: I agree I did such wrong things... I am not proud of what I did .. I feel ashamed of what I did? I feel guilty as well... I don't know if ur guilt is telling u the same.. But for me.. Enough of throwing my weight around, scaring people and ordering others in the name of the wealth I have or the Surname I have... but what I have I haven't earned them.. Just occupied... I need to standby them the way my parents earned that for me?
 
Harshad heard him and said,
Harshad: Aarav but is this real... or even this is a prank or a bet... I don't know... (He shook his head in disbelief)
 
Aarav: Harshad I have realized my mistakes? I won't tell anyone to trust me... or to understand me? This is my final year in the college I haven't made any friends yet so I can't get that from u all... but I know.. At least I have my parents who trust me.. I don't need bets & pranks anymore... I was a fool. Making others suffer for my entertainment? behind such laughters, there may be many tears, voices of pain ?.
 
Aarav walked feeling dejected, feeling there is no point in sharing his happiness with his friends, also the truth about his doings which can't be forgotten or forgiven by anyone so soon. What all he just said is the naked truth about his life, a guilt which taking a toll on him. There was no way he could live easily with this guilt he felt?. He sat in his car completely exhausted? He tried to hear the signals, as Sindhu's voice had always made him feel calmer?
 
Sindhu: What r u saying Harshad... This is news to me? Aarav and feeling all this... (She laughed)
 
Aarav felt very bad with her Laughter? 
 
Sindhu: Do u think he really feels guilty ya ab bhi akal nahi ayi hai.. kuch planning to nahi na? new prank -wrank..
 
Harshad: I don't know... Looks like genuine... none of the gang r aware... Few were saying after Smita left him Aarav has lost his mental balance?
 
Aarav got angry wondering from where did Smita came in between all this... He felt on his back what all stories will be created? Why can't they accept he is changing for better?
 
Sindhu: Oh... then it's very good that he lost his mental balance. I mean whatever u told me... I feel Aarav IF truly has changed it's the most difficult phase for him? I mean guilty of so many wrongs?  Who can feel good and walk ahead with so much guilt... 
 
Aarav closed his eyes as she told this? he indeed was feeling no good.
 
Harshad: He has done too many wrongs. How can he get out of it... Would U forgive him for the things he did to u..?
 
Sindhu: I may... if he says sorry and means it from his heart? I think one has to apologies firstly and Aarav how can he apologize to so many... I mean how will he go and say sorry to each one... But if he really wants to .he should... (She laughed off) I hope he has changed... I wish that's true... this is his final year in the college... He should at least get some good sense after leaving the college? (She said in a very harsh tone)
 
Aarav heard and realised what he has to do is Say 'sorry,' that can heal him of the guilt inside. But even he was confused he doesn't even know whom all he played pranks with; he insulted, blackmailed and scared too many students?.
 
U can feel guilty Sorry and want to say it too,
Can a Sorry do the justice, make them feel good,
It may not be enough but, atleast shows Ur intentions from now on,
It may not give forgiveness, atleast sents a message Good wins Wrong...

 
Harshad:  Mani & Aarav have their match soon? I don't know what's store for the college... Another fight or a normal badminton match? 
 
Aarav heard and recollected his match... He had completely forgotten about it.
Sindhu: Aarav and Mani? I guess they both want to score one point each against each other? they want to win and only their name to be sworn as THE winner... That's why they play singles not even doubles? They call themselves leaders and both don't even know what team spirit is all about? 
 
Aarav felt insulted by all this but somewhere he knew is was truth thrown at him on his face. He never participated in any game or match where there was a team playing but always game where only he played, he won and he achieved all the adulation. He didn't know how Sindhu has observed this about him though it's her first year in the college and she actually didn't even meet him that many times. 
 
How come its happening that what u say is the truth to the core,
Everything was in front of me why in my mind these things didn't store,
How it is that U can find the way I can heal myself,
How I wish U were my friend and like me as u like everyone else?
 
Aarav prepared for his match and the match was on. As the match progressed from semi to finals Both Mani and Aarav came face to face. They played for their respective colleges? Aarav was focused and not even slightly disturbed by any comment or adulation... He played without making any signs to the girls, without blowing any kisses nor showing thumbs down to Mani as he did always? He concentrated and won the match ?  He didn't even looked up to accept the cheer and applause from his collegians.. He took the mike in his hand from the announcer and Said ? 'Sorry to all the people from my college and others who have faced any kind of trouble from my side.. Due to me or my gang if anyone was hurt, felt insulted, got depressed I am SORRY. I know there r punishment for mistakes but forgive me if U can.' He said sorry to each girl who he dumped, insulted or broke hearts. He said he is sorry to the teachers, professors who felt insulted by his behaviour. Aarav said everything with eyes lowered and feeling guilty. The whole college and the auditorium went silent. His gang felt weird? Aarav went from there and no one could understand anything. Aarav went with a low head, heart filled with emotions and not a slight of happiness to feel he won the match. As if he came here only to say Sorry!  
 
Aarav is not hungry for win or power now,
Aarav is hungry for true conscious to envelop and come out,
He can feel emotions like pain, love & care,
He can feel the purity of soul & wants guilt to be thrown out?
 
That day at night Aarav signed into his community site and into his college group, he sent messages, scratches, PM's to all saying he is sorry if any of his behaviour has hurt anyone anytime? If they felt the name of the college or its atmosphere was disturbed by him.  It will be very kind of them if they forgive him. Some people from his gang made fun of him, sent jokes about Aarav feeling he lost everything after Smita left him. Kehtey hain aaurat sab tehes nehas kardeti hai. Smita attacked Aarav's kingdom and he is shaken. Many were teasing him, some were bitching about him. But Aarav remained firm to be calm and felt he has to take these bits which he had given in abundance. Somewhere he also wanted to please Sindhu foremost but she wasn't in his college and not on any community site. He searched for her but felt uncomfortable to others to send a message to her.
 
I feel there is a big Sorry I have to send across U,
And for guiding me through out send a Big Thank U,
I wish I could tell U how amazingly I have felt hearing U,
I wish I could inform, how touched and close I feel my life is to U?
 
He spent hours sending messages and in a minute he received many saying they feel nice Aarav at least apologized they never felt he would. Aarav replied to all messages saying how his love for his parents and later the way professors have been kind? and the fact that he in reality was lonely with no close friends around, made him realize many of this mistakes? Aarav felt a great relief when many said they forgive him and they understand Saying Sorry isn't so easy as well? in college who isn't conscious of their image and Aarav saying sorry on such a big platform in front of not only his college but the whole set of different colleges makes them feel, he truly wants to wash away whatever wrong he did? Aarav felt the guilt had lessened?at least he attempted to apologize and ask forgiveness from many? Aarav recollected the way Sindhu had told to say sorry to each one... Aarav hoped this apology should reach her as well?.and thought She easily made a way for him to feel better... a sorry sometimes can improve a lot of things in life? Ego can destroy a lot of important relations in life? he smiled he has to meet her and personally bring to light what difference she has brought in his life?. He hummed the tune he had heard Sindhu humming?.  
 
Aarav: Laaa Laaa laaa Laa Laaa laa.. Naaaa NAa Naaa Naa.. Sindhu lets meet soon, Let me say U r my friend ? 
His smile stretched... and he again said taking a deep breath.. 'MY FRIEND? MY GUIDE .. MY MOST ?. He didn't get words to say what he is feeling... as if he cant find the exact adjective... he was smiling...  MY MOST MOST?. Still he wasn't able to describe what he feels.. he scattered his rough hair and thought for a while and he had to switch on the signal as if he was dying to hear her talk? Aarav wanted to hear her voice not to hear what's was happening in her life but just to hear her and feel her close by his side? he surely was impressed by her on a emotional level..
 
Hearing Ur voice is no more part of my entertainment,
Hearing U talk has become as if it's my life's assessment,
I have gained the right attitude & the right priorities I need to make,
I have found a perfect friend in U,  never want this friendship to break?
 
_____________________________________________________________
 
Part: 16
 
It was very late at night? There was silence which could be heard. Aarav smiled, he knew Sindhu must be sleeping with Zuby, tobo, nozy and all those soft toys close to her?  He could visualize her capturing the picture of moon and stars in her eyes and humming that tune ? Aarav smiled with those glimpses of imagination in his mind? In the mean time he heard some faint noise? as if someone is breathless? Aarav stood up with tension he could sense Sindhu in some trouble, he felt immense anxiety and was confused if Sindhu was safe or not... Though he was at this side... he screamed... 'Sindhu... Sindhu.. r u fine..'
 
Sindhu: Zubby? (She was crying)
 
Aarav was relaxed hearing her voice, knowing she is talking that means she is ok ? He realised at this moment how much Sindu means to him, he cant see her in trouble.  Aarav heard her crying now he was worried why is she crying? she was crying and Aarav was feeling very uneasy? as if wanting to go near her and tell her.. Don't cry plzz?
 
Sindhu: Zubby, Aarav?
 
Aarav looked in front as if Sindhu was there and telling him, Did she get to know there was a mike he secretly kept? Is she crying because of it? 
 
That was THE moment he realized gosh?. He was guilty of so many wrongs already but he forgot one thing there is a crime which he is continuing even now? that's secretly hearing out her personal life? Aarav was in anger how could he not get this in the first place.. Sindhu must have got to know this?and she is angry at him? Aarav said 'Oh God!'
 
Sindhu: About Aarav U got to know Zubby? ?Harshad told me he has changed and he said sorry to all?. 
 
Aarav was getting Sindhu still hasn't seen the mike..
 
Sindhu: Aarav.. a person like Aarav changed and is saying Sorry who blackmailed with emotions, forced me to say Sorry, be his girlfriend n all.. Aarav changed that's like a miracle to me? If such a miracle can happen why can't another miracle happen? Why can't Kunal get out of this depression and feel confident to appear for the exams... 
 
Aarav realized Sindhu is crying as her brother Kunal had got into depression and was in a state where he refused to sit for the exams fearing he won't be able to? Aarav could hear Sindhu praying to the God to help out her bro, She prayed Kunal get her share of happiness as well she cant see him so helpless and weak? her parents have never pressurized him still why he fears and feels depressed what more can they do? She knew Kunal's mental state was very weak and she was worried why God did this to him, her happy go lucky bro was sitting with his knees closed to himself and nervous and felt inferior to converse with anyone as he felt he will be a loser all his life after not even passing his 10th Std?
 
Education process somewhere has become very stale,
Students' r scared how society will treat them if they fail,
Memorizing things can't be the only way to judge ones capability,
Why not better process comes through which enlightens their ability...
 
Sindhu was crying and Aarav was in pain? her begging to God made him feel her helplessness. Aarav also realized what kind of state such students can go through and making fun of people who r lesser confident can break them completely ? He also felt touched by the love between the brother & sister. As if Sindhu wanted to take away every bit of sadness from Kunal's life and take it herself? Aarav wished if he had a sister or bro he would consider himself so lucky? 
 
Sindhu: Zubby, I know I should not break down like this.. mujhe yunh himmat nahi harni chahiye .. How will I make others strong if I keep crying like this right?! I wont I wont cry? Mamma Pappa r showing a brave front.. Dad didn't get his pending promotion but he isn't showing that disappointment, Mamma is not able to sleep at night and there is so much household work in the day.. she has started taking pills to get sleep , if I become weak we wont be able to take care of Kunal? BUT?.. BUT?. I feel tensed if he does something to himself.. Oh god.. I can't sleep.. I wish we were in the same room? this freedom of individual space sometimes restricts us to know if the other is in immediate emotional need?
 
Sindhu cried for a while and Aarav heard and he was in his own thoughts? certain helplessness in him also was creeping up. 
 
Sindhu: Zubby I should try to sleep right.. even U should Sleep Zubby.. I will hum the tune to U which is an expression of my happiness which I try to bring out making myself to feel positive every time. I will hum it.. I need to be strong? My family needs my strength?.  Laa..Laa.. (her voice was choking with emotions as she tried hard to make herself stronger) Laa LaaaLaalAaa Hmm Hmm HMm OOOOO hooo Hooo.. 
 
Aarav heard the tune, this time it had a grim sad soul to it with her heart in pain? Aarav heard her all through the way she was trying to make herself get stronger planning tomorrow she will try something else and make Kunal come out of the depressed state. Make her father relax and help her mom. She didn't sat crying alone in the night all the way but stopped crying as she was preparing herself to support her family in this crisis situation and make herself enough composed to face it and bring others out of the worries. Aarav was going through her emotions along with her...  he realized how she was under a lot of personal turmoil but she was making herself to stand up and fight the situation with a smile. 
 
At last it was 2 am and she slept. Aarav heard her and knew she was a girl who will never give up by crying sitting in a place she is strong emotionally. She may be scared delicate as we look at her but inner strength in her is far far stronger. As Aarav too was going to sleep he woke up with another thought? Uptil now he without permission secretly heard the conversation of Sindhu from her personal life.. If she knows she will be very upset with him.. He cant hide this for long? and cant lie as well.. He needs to talk with her and apologize. He wants to talk and tell her, her friendship is the most precious and beautiful thing happened in his life? Aarav thought he has to tell all this only after the crisis situation in Sindhu's family is resolved. This is the time as he realised its important to stop using the mike as a way to hear her and help himself, make Sindhu guide him. He switched off the signal and kept the wires in his cupboard as he kept them? his eyes gazed?. One last time.. he took it out again..and again he kept inside as if he felt can he stay away from hearing her? and feeling close to her? as if the connection with Sindhu was getting stopped and a very important relationship was getting disconnected. He thought over and firmly told himself.. 'No Aarav now few things U too need to do? and to stop urself.. I need Sindhu as a friend but not secretly hear her out like a thief.' 
 
Aarav realized Sindhu is his guiding force,
She is close to him and his friend of course,
He wants her to know this, accept him as her friend,
Aarav wants this friendship to grow deeper & never end?
 
Aarav was very very tensed he was not hearing the mike and he was not knowing what's happening to Sindhu. He was worried for her if she is still able to be strong or not? is her brother ok or not.. How things at her home r? He was thinking about Sindhu's parents too if they r able to cope with whatever is happening.. He wondered if he could get to know the situation somehow. But there was no source. Harshad didn't know much about it and Aarav didn't get into telling him as it was Sindhu's family matters. Aarav was very confused how to get to know... he would get eager to hear the mike but would stop himself?saying 'No?. let me  think of some other way?'
 
_____________________________________________________________
Part: 17
 
In the end, Aarav realized he should call her up? Aarav thought it was so simple solution why was he making it look so complex, he called her up... On the other side of the call was Sindhu's mom... Aarav asked Aunty if Sindhu was at home, she told Sindhu has gone to the market. Aarav then asked about Kunal and she informed Kunal has gone with his father to see the centre he has got for his board exams. Aarav kept the receiver down ? he felt he didn't get to know anything about the situation, whether it is better or not... He thought the direct way is to meet Kunal that will show him how things r at this moment...
He went towards Kunal's school?. While he was driving the car, one of his family friend called him to ask him about a computer spear part he want as his laptop isn't working and he needs urgent replacement so if he still had his old laptop lying at home. Aarav told him to take it from his house and soon he thought about something and he drove towards Kunal's school excitedly. He saw Kunal with his dad. Kunal looked too pale and his eyes were as if half dead, he wanted to get out of the place... Pushing his dad to take him back home? 
 
Aarav: Hi Kunal...
 
Kunal looked at him and tried to recollect? 
 
Aarav: Kunal I am Aarav? remember that day Sunny key sath jab tumhari ladaee ho rahi thi.. or should I say tumhari peetaee ho rahi thi? (he said to lighten the moment) 
 
Kunal's dad: Kunal tum jantey ho issey.. (Uncle felt a bit odd with Aarav's previous sentence and he could guess Aarav to be older to kunal and so how come they r friends)
 
Kunal: Papa.. yeh Aarav hai Dii ?Sindhu Dii ke purane college mey dost tha? Sunny ke sath ladai mey meri help ki? 
 
Aarav: Hello uncle... I am Aarav and I am studying in final year in JH College. I must say Kunal & Sindhu share such a beautiful brother sister relationship that sometimes I feel jealous I wish I had a bro or sis? 
 
Kunal's father smiled and shook hands with him: Hi Aarav... thank u. Am proud of my children... (He looked at Kunal and said.) Always...
 
Aarav liked the confidence Kunal's father was trying to give to Kunal? it actually gave Aarav some more confidence to read the situation better... Kunal didn't react much but after his father said 'proud of'.. He felt like crying... crying as he knew he was not able to be the perfect son to such wonderful parents? Instead of boosting his confidence it made Kunal to feel smaller in front of the love his father has, as if he has no future and how can his parents bear him all their life? Kunal's father could realize Kunal again is feeling inferior?and he didn't know what to say... Aarav too had realized the tears filled in Kunal's eyes... 
 
Sometimes with lack of will power; it's a feeling totally painful,
When U realize Ur life in the eyes of society can be shameful,
With No degree, No merit, No work, No future to Ur name,
Ur family is taking so much pain so Life can't be the same? 
 
Aarav: Uncle if U don't mind, can I spend an hour with Kunal. I wanted to talk to him about something. I will drop him home, U don't need to worry...
 
Kunal's father wasn't sure, he felt confused and knew Kunal isn't in a state to enjoy with his friends Kunal's father was confused what reply to give... 
 
Kunal: I don't want to go anywhere. I will go home with my dad... Aarav? Aaj nahi? 
 
Aarav pulled him... 'areee .. tujhse baat karni hai...' he pulled Kunal towards his side and opened the car door. Kunal's father did not understand what's happening? 
 
Aarav: Uncle an hour and we will be back home...  (He said with so much confidence and a broad smile)
 
Kunal looked at Aarav with anger as if Aarav had hurt him more... Aarav drove the car and spoke?
 
Aarav: Kunal... woh Sunny kahan hai aaj kal..boxing champ banana tha ussey.. 
 
Kunal: Mujhe nahi pataa? yehi baat karni thi? ?(He said with in a rude tone rude)
 
Aarav: nahiii.. bohat si baatein thi.. waise? hmm Main soch raha tha.. tere exams?
 
Kunal heard exams and he was scared does Aarav know about his state, he didn't want to show his weak side to anyone... 
 
Aarav: Tere exams hogaye to mera ek kaam tha tujhse?  See Kunal U may not be knowing but I am in my final year and after this year I will start working? I was wondering what to do next? I was thinking to start a business with minimum investment... My friend was suggesting me computer assembling and it is a good option; nowadays assembled products r cheaper and work well and demand is also good? From Sindhu I guess I heard some day she told.. Kunal can dismantle the computer parts and knows how to assemble it too? Hey Kunal I am not much into computers? I like Management Economics more...  My family friend works in Computer Company, he asked me to start business, I have investment and could U help into the assembling I mean will U be interested in working along with us after U finish ur exams..? I have asked my friend and he is working on it... U will join...? We can run that? 
 
Kunal was excited: It's a good idea... but there will be lots of investment needed? and at professional level? me. ..I... how... 
 
Aarav liked the fact that Kunal wanted to converse and ask him more...
 
Aarav: Ya? I will do the investment I have enough bank balance for it...  though profit is less in the start I want it to have scope for future... 
 
Kunal: I have done few courses as I love this computer mechanism, but I am not professionally qualified into any big computer course, its like I read magazines, I read sites on the net and I have got the interest... . In my friends home I go and sort out computer related trouble shooting n all problems, Old outdated comps we just try and dismantle and use the monitor and all and add it into new one and make a brand new products? but it's for our use... I don't know professionally how we can look at making finished products. I can't do that alone... 
 
Aarav: My friend is professional in it... He works for a company and they do all this, he wanted me to take the initiative to start a business with him, I was avoiding as I didn't knew much about it myself? I needed someone whom I can trust to be with me and make me aware of the whole assembling process too and not just the management thing? It's like I need a person assisting him and also telling me how things progress in that? I can trust u as u r Sindhu's brother... and u have interest in it... u will learn along side and we can work ?  even for me the whole management, marketing in such a field is new but I will learn along when I get into it? 
 
Kunal: Ya? After my exams lets get focused into it? and I will grow my knowledge before results?
 
Aarav was happy Kunal talked about result so he is appearing for exams...
 
Aarav: Great I will tell him I am ready for investment and after U finish ur exams let us have a meeting with all of us together and we can work on it. It's up to U how u juggle college later on with this...Will U be able to juggle?
 
Kunal smiled: College..ya.. theek hai.. I am interested in working and learning this assembling... I surely will join U and college is in the morning rest of the time I will have free... 
 
Aarav: Ok so focus on ur exams now... though they won't have anything to do with our work. Pass hua to achaa hai.. U will give us treat when we meet? Fail hua to mere liye achaa hai.. I know u will be concentrating on this totally working on it full day?. (He laughed) Chit bhi meri patt bhi meri.. .. Kunal laughed along with him? 
 
Aarav: Nahi to kya.. yeh exam exam why take it like it's the end of the world.. for some people. 
 
Kunal looked at him not making Aarav realize he is among such people?
Aarav: I mean.. why u appear for exam to get good marks and get into college and later every thing is to get good work , good job have ur future secured and make ur parents proud.. Now giving best for ur papers is fine.. or else give best  to ur ability interest which U have and that can earn every thing? A secured future and make ur parents proud?  Pass honekeliye try karne ka.. give ur 100% but if u cant that means u r better in something else and give ur 100% in it.. and it works.. . Pass hue to treat and fail hua to lets meet? 
Kunal & Aarav both smiled and Aarav gave his phone number and both had Coke. Aarav and Kunal spoke about a lot of things and Aarav shared with him How he use to learn only15 answers out of the 100 and pray, 'jackpot lagjaye?' and at least 5 to atey he said?  which made it easy for him to pass in exams?. Kunal felt the pressure in his mind had eased already but with a future of working made him feel excited about looking ahead into tomorrow which was the MOST important thing which he lacked before, which had scared him.. When something exciting was there to look out in future his depression gave way to positive energy to come inside him? 
 
What people r scared of actually these days in real?
It's when they start feeling future has nothing to cheer,
People r depressed by a past and upset by the present,
It's better to assure oneself in present that a beautiful future is near?
 
Aarav dropped Kunal at his place and Kunal's face was beaming with confidence now... The dark eyes now turned into a different shade with his smile stretching and reaching them? Aarav felt his heart beats beating faster as Kunal forced him to come inside his house? Aarav was to meet Sindhu now and he didn't knew why he felt nervous? Kunal pulled him inside and Kunal's father was watching it standing near the window and knew Kunal is back to his self, Kunals dad felt immense happiness to watch this sudden change in his son? Aarav walked inside the house?
 
Dil achanak Yunh bechainsa kyun hai,
Dil mey uthii yeh ajeebsi leher kyun hai,
Dost hi to hai jissey main pehley bhi mil chukaa hun,
Sunaa Issko kai baar, Manoo aaj Pehli baar Dekh raha hun?
 
___________________________________________________________
Part: 18
 
Aarav came inside sat and Kunal introduced him to his mom. Aarav smiled and as he looked at the house, he felt something very special... this is the place where his friend Sindhu stays and so many conversations he heard while she was here? Aarav's eyes moved towards the rooms and he smiled wondering from which room Sindhu will come out. Aarav asked Kunal if Sindhu was at home? and his mom replied she hasn't yet come. Kunal was talking with him and while walking towards Kunal's room, Aarav passed through the adjacent room of Sindhu's... From the open door he saw her college bag and knew its Sindhu's room? He saw those soft toys and felt very glad inside his heart? the window from where Sindhu saw those stars he wondered... 
 
Aaj yeh jagah mujhe apnisi lagti hai,
Dost ki parchain jo mere saath chalti hai,
Tum keh rahi thi; Main Sun raha tha,
Dost bangayi tum; main Jeena Sikh raha tha?
 
Kunal pulled him inside his room and sat talking while his mom served them Cold drink. Kunal's father and his mom sat together in the drawing room and discussed this sudden change in Kunal. His father was very pleased and glad that Aarav surely has brought out this change in Kunal? they were smiling and chatting as if their worries have minimized.  At that time Sindhu entered...  Sindhu came inside and could sense her parents' r very happy with something. Later on her father told her what happen today at the school. Sindhu heard Aarav's name and was shocked, from where did he came and what he spoke with Kunal which changed his mood? She walked towards her room to keep her things... She was happy as well as a bit confused; Aarav here? what must have he said or did to bring a change in Kunal and Why he would, how he did? She kissed her Zubby and told Zubby...
 
Sindhu: Zubby Miracle... miracle... I must say? but how... I mean both the miracle in the same place in the same room r sitting.. (She laughed off) Guys r weird na... I mean so many people keep saying 'What goes in a women's heart is very difficult to understand ? actually here I can feel Men r difficult to understand... Aarav changed I don't know whose Kind advice he followed (She joined her hands and made a loud noise as if she is thankful to whover it is) which helped hundreds of students? Kunal he changed, we his family couldn't bring out a smile on his face? how Aarav brought about that?
 
Aarav Ki buraiyaan ginatey ginatey thaku nahi main,
Apne Bhai ka pyaar jatatey jatatey ruku nahi main,
Aarav tha lafanga najaney kaise sudhar gaya,
Sudharaa aisaa Ki mere Bhai ko mujhse behtar samjh gaya?
 
Soon she heard Aarav's voice form behind?
 
Aarav: Hi? Aunty told me... U have come... I thought I should meet U. How r u doing Sindhu?
 
Sindhu turned towards the door and had her Zubby in her hand: Fine... (She said with astonishment she could sense a drastic change in his tone and the way he stood before her... something very very pleasant)
 
Aarav: Sindhu .. I have apologized for my mistakes to many? and I know it's not enough to undo whatever wrong I did still this is the least I could do? U too plzz forgive me, I have played with ur emotions as well?and..
 
Sindhu interrupted: Aarav, I am forgiving all that. I mean I don't want ot remember those... It was nightmarish but leave the past? I can see some change in U and am happy if it reflects kindness ?
 
Aarav looked at her and her eyes? her smile... the cute Zubby in her hand and he was looking at her? feeling oh he wish he could see her as well every day and not just hear her so often. As if he was so much wanting to meet and now he has so much to tell her? 
 
Aaj Aisa lagta hai Dil mera Jhoom utha hai,
Tumhe Apni nazroo mey samaa lu aisa lagta hai?.
 
Sindhu felt weird with the sudden silence and the continuous smile on Aarav's face as if he is thinking something and is very happy?
 
Sindhu: Aarav, if u don't mind, can u tell me what u spoke with Kunal?.
 
Aarav: Why not... Sure? I knew Kunal was under stress and in depression over his exams... and I knew u all in ur family r worried. I wanted to know what was happening and wanted to meet Kunal? When I went towards his school my friend called up and U know this friend of mine was after me for giving him financial help to start his business and we can be in partnership. I realised that once U had spoken that Kunal is god at assembled computer making... So I felt this is the right opportunity to talk to him if he loves that work.. I knew that for a boy especially the main stress is how will he be able to live up to the expectations of the society where HE has to run the house.. It's a mental situation developed in all men. I knew if he gets a situation a light where his future is secured ? that will get him out of his depressed state that what I thought and I gave him the suggestion to join in this business if he wants to and also gave him the edge that his exam results don't make any difference to this opportunity and that worked.. Am sure now he has that beam of light through which he can see his future in it..and it brought a smile on his face? when stress is less appearing for exam is ok.
 
Sindhu heard and realised, this was the way to bring Kunal's broken will power to get stronger? they had not worked on that ?
 
Sindhu: Thank U Aarav... I mean Ya, I never thought this path.. I mean I kept telling him I will help him in his studies, dad also helped? We worked on the present situation telling him exam dedo.. fail hue to hue.. Exam dooo exam do... But we didn't guide him to 'what if fail hogaye'... 'What will be the next he has to do? he shouldn't be scared of failure we told him but failure hokey bhi options we didn't provide with... Computer assembling... Kunal is very good in it... I know...  
 
(She smiled and as if there were tears of happiness in her eyes...)
Sindhu: Aarav? U did a VERY BIG FAVOUR to me.....
 
Aarav could see the love she has for her brother... and the tears of happiness in her eyes...
 
Aarav: Don't u cry I can't handle those tears flowing... and I tell u .. I am THANKFUL TO U and to Kunal? Actually I never thought about my future after this final year and see now Kunal and U have guided me to a perfect path to lead?. I can work on this business venture... my dad use to tell me what U want to do Aarav... think... and I never thought over... and Now I know what is it.. Along side I have got a wonderful friend like Kunal. In these 30 minutes in his room, he showed me his PC and the way he does those?Oh he is talented and sharp handling those tiny tiny piece of copper I don't know even whats it called?  THANK U SINDHU... Really u r my guiding force? My THE special friend?. Whatever positive change has taken place in my life? U r the person who made it possible?
 
Sindhu wondered what she changed, why Aarav is calling her his guiding force?. She was confused and while she was thinking she looked at her Zubby in her hand wondering when did she?
 
Aarav quipped: That's Zubby right Sindhu? It's very cute? (Aarav said it in the excitement of having a look at it from so close.)
 
Sindhu looked at him with amusement: U know his name?
 
Aarav knew now the truth will be out...
 
Sindhu: How do U know his name?? and?? Oh god how u know about Kunals state in the first place? It just slipped of my mind.. How come u r aware of these tensions in my family? Who told U?
 
Aarav:  I heard when U were telling these issues to Zubby at night? I...
 
Sindu: U heard me say this?. How come?
 
Aarav walked while Sindhu wondered where is he going, Aarav took out the small tiny mike from her college bag.. and Sindhu wondered what it was?
 
Aarav showed her the mike? and said,
 
Aarav: This is the thing which helped me to hear U saying those details... 
 
Sindhu: what is this?
 
Aarav: It's a tiny mike, its singal use ot reach me and I was able to hear whatever was spoken around the area of the mike?.
 
Sindhu was stunned? and with a slight disbelief?she said,
 
Sindhu: Why would someone keep this... Who could...? 
 
Aarav: I kept this? after our 1 month girlfriend bet was over... I wanted to know what u and Harshad spoke? I was curious what U spoke so much at length with him?.
 
Sindhu: What? U kept this mike? (She sat on the bed with shock) U were listening to every minute detail of my life? what I was doing day, night keeping a watch on me... Knowing what I was discussing? even my family matters? (Her voice became low and she was saying each line with long pause)?.U heard all?. U know? everything was out in the open for U to use it as U want? 
 
She sat, her tears flowed, and she became silent. Aarav looked at her and felt immense anger on himself, her silence was scarign him?.as if he wanted Sindhu to hear and not sit silently but slap him hard, hit him? 
 
Don't be silent, keeping the pain inside U,
Hit me I am the one who brought such pain to U,
I know I was a jerk what I did isn't right,
Give me the punishment and do what a friend might?
 
___________________________________________________________ 
Part: 19
 
Aarav: Belive me I was a jerk, stupid, brat, useless, an idiot call me whatever U want? but U have changed me now. Most of the conversations I heard; it made me to transform myself into a better person. I started to feel emotions that I never felt existed near me... but those emotions I started feeling within me itself... Belive me Sindhu there were no conversation which were embarrassing actually all of them threw light at truth that I couldn't see before... I could not see what U all knew? I know I hurt U and I am punishable to play with all ur emotions?I am SORRY.. Punish me Sindhu... I wanted to tell U the truth and admit? The day I realised secretly hearing ur life is not right... I have restricted my self not to?
 
Sindhu: Ur dirty mind I hadn't seen Aarav? Now I can read what u wanted to gain out of that device...
 
Aarav (understanding what she is imagining): Honestly I?
 
Sindhu shouted out loudly: No.. don't tell me that U were not wanting to hear something really embaraasing things from my personal life... Dont tell me U didn't want to hear something U could use as a tool to humiliate me or embarrass me in the college? 
 
Aarav: I... (He knew in the start he wanted to hear only those but later it was only to hear Sindhu but nothing dirty on his mind?)
 
Sindhu trying to control her anger: When a person comes close physicaly without U wanting to? Its an abuse a physical abuse... I didn't let u do that.. and U asked me to say Sorry for it in the college?. and when a person tries to hear out watch out secretly getting closer to someone's mental emotional side which includes one's private conversation .. It's also an abuse and I couldn't stop u from doing that... U have harmed me but like a coward, and I hate it.. I hate it... I cant now ever freely talk with myself and pour my emotions out.. I will be feeling may be someones secretly is around me listening. U have affected my life.. and U have gone through all pages of my daily life without my permission? I don't even know what all u heard.. May be many issues about my family r open to U? I feel so cheated? 
 
I feel cheated as if U read out pages of my personal diary,
What all u heard, it can be so personal & that makes me wary
U can misuse as U had assess to my life's every second,
By just saying sorry now; things situation cannot amend? 
 
Sindhu was crying now and Aarav was feeling how can he make her to stop crying...
Aarav: Sindhu, slap me, hit me.. Punish me? I want to take the punishment and free myself from the burden.. Sindhu pllzz don't cry ? Sindhu ur life was so beautiful that it inspired me to make my life beautiful as well?  I want ur friendship.. For me U r my friend whom I do not want to hurt ever...
 
Sindhu: I don't need a friend like U.. a creep, a selfish goon like u ..  Harshad once told me? that U r better than others like Mani .. as U like girls to be in awe of U?but U don't push and pull them to get that closer to U? He told me Sindhu that day Aarav may have done bymistake? But now I realize.. U don't have any limits? U can cross any limit? I gave u ur parents Kasam remember but No U don't care about anyone...  U can do anything to get what u want? U want punishment from me.. Is it ok to u if I keep a mike in Ur parent's room?
 
Aarav's eyes, which were lowered before, now he looked at her with uncomfort. Sindhu looked at him with anger...
 
Sindhu: No.. U cant let that happen..  then how could u do this to me ? I have set for myself some principles & values which I can never cross even if I want to teach u a lesson I cant cross those ever.. I cant ever steep as low and as ill minded as u can?  I don't even know where I took my college bag? what u heard.. may be conversation where I may not be there? my family may be there. Or my friends may be? I don't trust anything U said? U used it..and now u admit it honestly and I should take ur Sorry.. No way... 
 
Aarav: Plzz Sindhu... I didn't misuse anything.. But I know what I did was wrong.. . I have learnt my lessons and I want to be a better individual? give me a chance...
 
Sindhu: U will never get my friendship... I don't even want to see ur bloody face? U better leave my room, my house. Do not do anything for my family my brother? I don't need anything in return.. My family is strong enough to cope with anything.. we r not unhuman & selfish like u? Stay out of my life from now? (She still had tears in her eyes but lot of anguish )
 
Aarav: But.. Sindhu.. 
 
Sindhu: Get lost?  
Sindhu's mother came into her room as she wondered why Sindhu didn't come to have her tea?
 
Sindhu mom: Sindhu? (She realised Sindhu was in tears and very upset.. anger too could be seen on her face)
 
Sindhu: Mom? he is the one who forced me to act his girlfriend.. He is a ?. ??????????.. (The silence after that and SIndhu's angry face made her mom know Aarav deserved nothing less than humiliation)
 
Sindhu'smom: Sindhu We have to throw him out or he can manage on his own...
 
Aarav was shocked with that..
 
Sindhu: He can manage? he can do anything? Get out ?.and in future as well never ever talk to me... or show me ur face... I can't bear ur presence near me... GOOOOOOOOOOOO  
 
Aarav walked few steps ahead his heart was filled with unsaid emotions? Sindhu's cries he could hear, it had already teared his heart apart.. the pain in her eyes had made him to hate himself more.. The words and the way Sindhu felt Aarav used the mike to get to know dirty things made him know How Sindhu perceives him which is nothing less than an animal? he could hear Sindhu's mom going towards Sindhu and consoling her and asking her what happened and She telling her mom with tears?.
 
Aarav walked out of the house? he didn't knew what he should do. He went home and had a look at the casattete of the conversations he had heard of Sindhu which were in his cupboard. He destroyed all of them? throwing them down and stamping over them? his anger frustration & helplessness he removed on those? He was in pain but he didn't know what he can do to punish himself and make Sindhu know he feels for her.. and he wants her friendship in his life?
 
Sindhu for me Ur friendship meant so much more,
As if I am a plant U r the oxygen around me to grow,
How I wish I could make U hear what my heart is speaking,
When U cry due to my deeds, my heart starts bleeding?
 
Next day Aarav got a call from Kunal. Aarav realised Kunal didn't knew what happened, Sindhu hadn't said anything to him may be due to his exams and mental state. Aarav spoke with him as usual and whenever Kunal would share about Sindhu Aarav would feel very emotional. Aarav use to follow Sindhu's day observing her from distance but the closeness which he felt remained the same... Somewhat the distance increased his want to be friends with her...  He was disappointed how could he change the situation and be friends with her?
 
Aarav never wanted to use Kunal's friendship to come closer to Sindhu. Friendship with Kunal was a genuine effort. With days, he use to talk with Kunal and push him to work for his exams and share his talks. Make a friendly atmosphere for Kunal while his exams dates were coming closer. At home, Aarav's parents knew something was going in Aarav's life which is depressing him. Aarav shared with them what all happened... While his dad told him to leave those issues aside whatever happened he can't change the things but in future to make sure no one is hurt by him. Aarav's mom had something else to say? She said.. Aarav Ur punishment was losing her friendship? U have to accept that? No place for U to know her more.. that was ur punishment.. Also may be the girl wants to forget the fact that someone has gone through her personal life and knows some close facts? when she will look at U she will be reminded again n again that Its true.. U know how she cries when she is alone.. How she talks with her friends.. How she naughtily behaves at home.. All these hurt her that u without her knowledge know her small life details which r tooo precious and she never wanted anyone to invade that? She cant in any case want to see u ever.. Want to talk to u ever...
 
That was the time Aarav knew everything is over.. He can 't get her to be friends with him? The biggest failure of his life... The biggest price he has to pay. 
 
Won't U ever forgive me? 
Won't U ever feel for me?
Won't U ever want to be friends with me? 
Won't U ever want to meet me?
I care for U so much more than u could think,
I feel for U as if between heart and mind U r the link,
As I look at U I can feel U capture my heart at a glance,
Don't hate me so much plz Sindhu Give me one more chance?
 
____________________________________________________________
Part: 20
 
After few weeks, Harshad came to meet Aarav. Aarav was sitting in his class on the bench, the class was over but Aarav was in his thoughts and alone... Harshad could sense, Aarav is in deep thoughts... 
 
Harshad: Kya soch raha hai? What is bothering u now? is it about Who should be the next Victim to get the mike connected?  (He laughed and it hurt Aarav) Mere Bag mey koi mike to nahi rakha na? (He asked smiling with a stern face)
 
Aarav was very upset already and Harshad's words made him to feel more ashamed of himself. He kept his head down and did not look at Harshad. Harshad could observe a broken state from Aarav's body language. Harshad had known Aarav from his school days and for the first time he saw Aarav not replying but quietly mourning inside... 
 
Harshad realizing he has to become soft:  Aarav, remember that day U told all of us. That U got to know what u should not do and u also said that in our gang none ever tried to say Aarav No? don't do this and u felt we were together from so many years atleast once, or atleast one among us, should have guided that it was wrong. Aarav I am among those who were close to u from years but never felt U could change? or may be never tried to change or make u realize?  I am sorry..
 
With those words Aarav felt for first time someone wanting to emotionally heal him? Aarav hugged Harshad and looked at him..
 
Aarav: U don't have to be Sorry? I never created that space to feel we have that much right to share our views! U know after Sindhu told me not to show her face ever? not to talk to her ever? get out of her life... I felt isolation was my punishment?  Now when I heard u say Sorry and feel for me?  I felt like a friend with whom I could share my heartache? Harshad I don't have friends but I need them? I need a shoulder to hold on, I need a person to listen to me? I need someone to understand what I am going through? I changed didn't u feel it, didn't u see it?realize it..  Now after I feel I am a better person why am I not given a second chance? I wish I could hurt myself and do something to punish myself but my parents love me so much and I know they will be hurt if something happens to me? What should I do?  If I have changed today its by the conversations I heard of Sindhu with U & her other friends, with her family and with herself. If there is a friend I have realised to be closer to me and guided me was Sindhu..How can I bear that she is so upset with me?  If a person has changed u wont grant mercy, u wont allow him the friendship which will never let him go to the wrong path ever.. Is isolation the punishment I have to face? for me her friendship is the most important? Ever day I think about her, I feel she guides my life? Harshad plzz atleast U tell her to forgive me? talk ot me? 
 
The person who brought about the hidden emotions out,
Love, respect for others and for myself who brought about,
The person who is special to me and dear to me now,
Can't bear her hatred, Can't we become friends somehow?
 
Harshad could feel Aarav was extremely emotional while he said this...
 
Harshad: U know what u did was very wrong and Sindhu forgiving u? I don't think she will? She has seen U as a spoilt brat while I have seen the transformation so I can feel for u? John told me U said Sorry to him and thanked him. He told me U went to his house and in front of his parents, U thanked him. I have seen the way U have started to respect the professor's, I have seen how U stay away from planning pranks.. I have seen u in these days standing for students not be ragged. I know u spoke with principle about having a psychologist before exams hit us. But Sindhu to realize U r genuinely changed and what u did with her was a matter of the past.. She won't agree with me that easily? It's too difficult? She hates even if I take ur name? talking about U she can't tolerate..
 
Aarav knew the answer will be the same but he hoped Harshad could change something; hoped something makes Sindhu realize Aarav isn't that bad as she perceives? 
 
Kash Aisa hota Tum mujhe samajh Paati,
Meri bhool ko maaf kar apna dost Maan Sakti,
Lekin mujhe tumhari dosti naseeb nahi hue hai,
Dil mey ek koney mey aab bhi ass jagii hue hai?
 
Harshad: Aarav I can't get u Sindhu's friendship? but for the years I have known U and for the few days I have seen u changing transforming urself I want to tell u.. U have me as Ur friend... anything which is possible from my side... I will try to do? 
 
Aarav smiled with his words: Thanx buddy.. That's really nice of U.. I know I have been very harsh on everyone. Even the base of the mike episode was wanting to hear what u and Sindhu always spoke ? I couldn't figure at that time .. Sindhu is very special? anybody can feel the positive spirit while talking with her, her warm nature , her beautiful way of talking , guding caring for her friends.. .  She in her own way is witty? smart? bold? strong? funny? cute? innocent? delicate? scared but MOST important She has a beautiful Soul? She is lovely and pretty? but THAT smile of hers is the most infectious? She is intelligent as well? She?
 
Harshad saw the smile on Aarav's face while he was talking about Sindhu and tried to understand Aarav actually is feeling for Sindhu much more than a friend could? but Harshad kept silent... and kept his thoughts in his mind.
 
Aarav Kya Yeh sirf dosti hi hai jo 
yunh tumhara chehra khill utha hai,
Kya yeh bechaini ek dost ke liye hai 
jo Tumhara jahan yunh Suna hogaya hai,
Sindhu ka Naam letey hue, 
uskii baatein kartey hue tum kahin kho gaye ho,
Aapne aap ko bhi bhool kar
jaise kissi aur ke hochukey ho?.
 
Harshad: Ya Sindhu is a very nice girl. 
 
Aarav excitedly: She is? U know I don't meet her, nor I can talk to her but I look at her while I drive from her college?  I feel very happy when she is laughing with her friends, her friends Diya, Kadambari, Sameer.. I feel as if I know all of them? and I feel I know how much they also, r touched by Sindhu? they r so very lucky to have her as a friend? Kunal use to tell me about Sindhu, how they fight, how Sindhu would dance and Kunal would push her aside so that she doesn't? U know when I hear Sindhu's voice.. I can forget everything and has her face all over my mind? it always brigns a smile on my face?. I
 
Aarav realised he is continuously talking excitedly about Sindhu? he paused?
 
Harshad: Kya hua...
 
Aarav: Nothing .. Woh I was going on talking about her and Tujhe kuch bolney nahi diya..
 
Harshad smiled: Kunal ke sath ab bhi baatein hoti hain..
 
Aarav: He finished his exams few days back and after his exams were over we had a meeting... I called him and we spoke, I informed him about what all I had done with Sindhu ? right from the bet incident?
 
Harshad: Pagal hai? Why were U in so much hurry to reveal it to everyone so soon...
 
Aarav: I can't hide anything now? Kunal is not only Sindhu's brother he is a friend to me now? I had to tell him before he starts feeling I was using him to get Sindhu's frinedshsip? or details about her life? 
 
Harshad: what he said?
 
Aarav: He heard and before I realize his reply? He gave a hard punch straight on my nose? and before I could recover from that he hit one more hard one with full power again that I fell down? the whole cafeteria was looking at us..  I was bleeding from my nose and I could see Kunal was absolutely filled with anger? I did say Sorry..but he was very angry. He threw the table over me and when he started hitting me  with those chairs the staff stopped him and asked him to leave.. I was ready for whatever he gave? In life whatever I got I don't know about them but those punches I rightly deserved? 
 
Harshad: Kunal isn't in touch with u after that..
 
Aarav: No.. I lost another friendship? that's why sitting here wondering.. three months and college will be over.. Nothing there in life to look forward to now? A stale feeling is there inside... 
 
Harshad was understanding his state: Leave it?  Chal lets go.. Coming with me.. 
 
Aarav: Where?
 
Harshad: Friends right? so don't ask? Follow me?
 
Aarav smiled with some thoughts going in his mind and said: I followed Sindhu? She is my guiding force even now...  (Aarav was in thoughts of Sindhu and it brought smiles onhis face)
 
Harshad could realize there is a strong impact of Sindhu on Aarav. He takes her name every now n then as if she is around him 24 hours.
 
Bina sath hotey hue bhi Chaaro Orr hai,
Bina sath chaltey hue bhi khichti koi Dorr hai,
Dosti kahey ya kya issey badi hi anjaani hai,
Mehsus karey issey to badi hi meethi suhani hai?
 
_________________________________________________________
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bhoomikauttam2008-12-24 06:13:30
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