Chapter 2

 He looked at her snuggled up closely finally sleeping with all frowns slowly edging away from her forehead. He slowly put her beside him, her head now on the pillow and lay down beside her himself. pulling her close to him he placed her head on his chest holding her tight. Lightly kissing her forehead he still couldnt help but smile as he recollected her initial expressions when he came to pick her up the first time...................

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She was stunned to see him standing there holding his Mercedes door open with a bright smile on his face.

 

'At your service madam' he said while stooping a little like a chauffer showing courteousness to his mistress.

 

Taken aback by what was happening in front of her, she pinched herself to make sure she wasn't hallucinating. 'Ouch' was the only word that came out of her mouth at that moment after her thin, long fingers grabbed a small portion of her soft delicate skin.

 

'Hello, I am here missy' Armaan said waving his hand. 'I've been waiting for you for the past 40 minutes you know''and all you've got to say is ouch to me?' He said sounding annoyed.

 

'Armaan, what are you doing here? I told you not to come to pick me up na' Riddhima said lightly with a muted shriek of frustration.

 

'Well honey, I told you last night that I'd come at 9 and here I am''9 sharp' he proudly smiled while pointing his Index finger to the right angle formed between the hour and minute hand of his watch.

 

'Please Armaan, its really sweet of you but I told you I don't need your favors. I can do things on my own and I really don't want you to take such pains for me. Thanks for that but I would catch a bus instead.'

 

'Oh come on Riddhima, we've become quite good friends now and I don't think there is anything wrong in picking you up. Its really not any trouble for me baby. That's what friends are for, isn't it?' his eyes sparkled.

 

'I know''.but''.' she dug her brain in search of words to make some sense.

 

'Stop thinking baby, you don't need to think for so long'..and that too for an issue as small as this.'

 

'Now madam, if you don't mind, would you please honor me by sitting in the car? Gosh''.you girls think so much' he said nodding his head randomly.

 

Seeing this, Riddhima couldn't stop herself from smiling. Noticing her smile, Armaan added 'Moreover, I don't mind picking and dropping you everyday. I can do with this as a full time job then, there's already a shortage of cabbie drivers here you know' and winked at her.

 

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It was nearly 6 in the evening with the last lecture for the day almost finished. The day had been really long and tiring for both of them. Continuous lectures and practical sessions had left them feeling exhausted by the end of the day.

 

'So honey, you must be feeling tired by now na?' Armaan asked Riddhima.

 

'Oh Armaan, I am dead tired. I had never imagined that musical studies would require so much hard work. I wish someone just picks me up and lays me down on my bed without me having to catch a bus. And, on top of all that, I am so hungry. I haven't even had a chance to eat anything in the afternoon' She complained.

 

'Don't worry baby, I am there na. I'll drop you. Let's go' he calmly said.

 

'I can't Armaan, I've got work to do. Remember I told you about my job in the library, I have my duty there until 9 today' her voice trailed off with weariness.

 

'Oh come on, you are so tired already, how would you work at this hour? If you want, I can ask for a leave from the librarian?'

 

'No Armaan, thank you for your concern but I need to work there. I have my expenses to take care of and taking leave from work would increase my dues. You leave for your home na, you must be tired as well' she protested.

 

'Are you sure? I can wait for you if you want' Armaan asked with an expression filled with concern.

 

'No please, I am fine, really. Now, you go, I'll see you tomorrow' she insisted pointing to the car parking area.

 

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Laying down all the returned books systematically on their respective shelves wasn't a very physically demanding job but the tiredness from the course lectures throughout the day was making Riddhima's body resign every now and then.

 

Juggling the final set of books on their relevant shelves with a sigh of relief, she headed towards the rear of the main counter to grab her belongings and leave for home.

 

'What are you doing here?' She was surprised to see Armaan standing there with his hands crossed over, taking the support of the corner of the wall and smiling with a dimple appearing on each of his cheeks.

 

Still not able to believe her eyes, she continued her investigation 'Didn't you go home Armaan? What are you doing here at this time? Have you been waiting here for so long, Oh my God! Why didn't you leave, why did you wait here?' She shot such questions at him like a series of bullets been released from a gun.

 

'Relax baby, take a deep breath before you run out of it' he said smiling.

 

Holding her shoulders softly, he continued 'I didn't want to leave you alone here at this time love and definitely not when you were so tired. What did you think that I'd leave you in such a condition? No ways.'

 

Riddhima was deeply touched by Armaan's gesture so much that she felt her eyes getting moist with tears. She had never been treated like that in her life before. After her mom's death, she had felt extremely lonely and was longing to be cared by someone. Feeling blessed to have got a friend like Armaan, she finally spoke up''

 

'Armaan, I really don't know how to thank you. You have been so kind towards me and look at me, I am not even able to thank you properly. I am sure I did some good deeds in my life to have got a friend as supportive and helpful as you. Thank you so much.'

 

'You don't need to thank me for everything Riddhima. Our friendship doesn't require formalities like these. I do all this because I feel like doing it, and I have never asked you to thank me in return. So, please stop embarrassing me and my friendship with your thankfulness and other appreciations. Now, can we leave for home madam, its late already.'

 

She felt so happy listening to Armaan's words that a smile automatically developed on her face 'Yeah, let's go.'

 

**************************************************

 

Balancing the car steering with his right hand, he grabbed a packet placed at the rear seat with his other hand, and passed it to Riddhima who was sitting beside him.

 

'There you go' he said facing her.

 

Riddhima was astonished to see the contents of the packet 'Armaan, this''.'

 

'You were feeling hungry na. So, I bought this for you' he explained with warm eyes.

 

Noticing the burgers and a packet of fries, she asked in a shocked as well as delighted tone 'Is this for me Armaan?'

 

'No, that packet of fries is for you and the burgers are for me' he smiled with dimples forming on his cheeks.

 

Following a chuckle, he said with an assuring smile 'Of course, its for you sweetheart.'

 

'Oh my God Armaan, you've done it again. How should I'..'

 

He immediately stopped her with his interruption 'Now, before you start your speech of thanks all over again, let me tell you that its not a big deal honey. I just grabbed these from the nearest Burger King. So, stop your favorite activity for the time being and eat it up before it turns cold.'

 

On listening to Armaan, she did nothing but smile. Noticing the smile on her face, he continued 'And baby, please don't swallow both the burgers. I know you are hungry, but I beg you to leave the other one for me. I am hungry too' and teased her only to be replied with a 'Shut up' from her side.

 

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Stopping his Mercedes in front of Riddhima's house, Armaan got off from his car and moved to the other side to open his companion's door.

 

'Here is your destination madam' he bowed giving a warm smile.

 

Getting off the car, Riddhima softly asked 'Armaan, aren't you coming inside?'

 

'No Riddhima, I'll leave now. I just wanted to drop you off safely'

 

'You can't leave like that Armaan. First you picked me up in the morning and now, you went out of your way to drop me off. I am not that ungrateful to not even ask you to come inside' she declared.

 

'On top of that, you haven't even had your dinner yet. It was only me who was munching that burger all the way while you were occupied with driving. I won't let you go until you come inside and have your dinner' she grabbed his arm and pulled him in her direction.

 

'Okay baba, I'll come. Gosh'''.I am seeing you in a completely different avatar Riddhima' he said with an amused tone.

 

********************************************************************************************

 

'Will you have something to drink Armaan?' Riddhima asked as he took a bite of his burger leading a small piece of lettuce to fall freely on his plate.

 

'No, thanks' he replied without looking at his host, giving all his attention to the two pieces of bread fixed between his fingers.

 

Seeing Armaan busy with his meal, Ridhhima thought of breaking the silence 'Um'..Armaan, If you don't mind, May I ask you something?'

 

'Of course you can honey, go ahead with your Question answer session' he smiled.

 

Interlocking her fingers nervously, she gained all the courage to proceed 'Armaan, why are you so caring towards me? Please don't take me wrong but I don't get why you have are so kind and helpful to me. I mean why are you always nice to me..........Uh'.how do I put this up''.You always make me feel special and'''.you do even the smallest things for me.'

 

Hearing such words come out of Riddhima's mouth, Armaan felt like a shiver run down his spine. He sat there motionless with the piece of burger still in his mouth as if fixed with an adhesive.

 

Seeing the blank expression on his face, she fished out for words to make a better sense of what she was trying to say ' I mean'''.I hope you are not doing this out of pity after knowing my history. Its just that I haven't had anyone else in my life, not even a friend apart from my mother. She was the closest soul to me and getting to have a person as caring and friendly as you''..its something I never really dreamt of. I know you value our friendship and believe me I cherish this beautiful relationship too but I just want to know why a guy like you would be so considerate and supportive towards a girl like me? I hope you don't mind me asking that.'

 

Finally able to make some sense out of those words, he accelerated his chewing motion to digest his food that had been sitting in his mouth for the past few minutes. Taking hold of the glass of water standing beside his plate, he said with a composed voice 'Uhh'..Riddhima, this is something I have never told you before. In fact I haven't spoken to anyone about this but since you have asked me, I'll tell you why I am like this towards you.'

 

Tilting the water filled glass to let its contents fall in his dry throat, he consumed all the liquid inside it without leaving even a single drop to float in it. Placing the empty object back to its original position, he continued following a deep sigh 'I come from a very rich family Riddhima. I have been provided with almost everything from the day I was born. I have been given whatever I have asked for from the smallest to the biggest and the most unimaginable things. All my demands and wishes have been fulfilled with just a single mention of it'''always'''..but'''I still am not happy. Do you know why'''..because like you I have also not got the love of my parents''..never.'

 

Feeling his eyes moist, he went on 'My mother died when I was 5 years old, so I hardly have any memories of her in my mind. And my dad''..he has always been busy with his work''.so much that he never realized that he had a son as well. I was always handed to the caretakers to look after me. Watching other kids in school as their parents came to pick them up used to remind me of my loneliness at all the times, leaving me with nothing but pain. Most of the time of my childhood was spent in my room with no one around me to talk to or share my feelings with.'

 

'So on that day, when I got to know about your past, I saw a little of myself in you. I found your life very much similar to mine. The way you longed for love and support reminded me of my youth''.and I felt so much connected to you in that way' he felt his vocal pitch lower down as he mentioned about his upbringing.

 

'Oh'''I am really sorry Armaan. I shouldn't have asked you that' Riddhima felt guilty for bringing such a topic.

 

'Oh no, its not your fault at all. In fact its good you asked me about that' he said in a cheerful tone.

 

'So then, how come you are living alone now'''you aren't living with your dad now'..right?' she asked with an inquisitive look.

 

'Yeah, I left his house a few years ago. It was when I decided to pursue my career in music. I wanted him to be the first one to know about my decision of studying music. I was so excited to tell him about my intentions of becoming a good music composer but I was so wrong. The moment I told him about my interest, he asked me to leave his house''.He wanted me to leave music and join his business instead. So, I ultimately left him and his wealth....'..and I am so glad I did that' he said with a glitter forming in both his eyes.

 

Riddhima felt relieved listening to Armaan's story. She was so wrong to have doubted him to pity her 'This guy has experienced the same youth as you. He has felt the same pain as you have. He has also never got the love of his parents. At least, you had your ma with you but he, he never received the affection of his mother'''.He has been so kind to you and what have you done, reminded him of the sad times of his life. You should be ashamed of yourself Riddhima' she heard her conscience voicing its opinion.

 

Trying to correct her mistake, she softly spoke 'I am so sorry Armaan. I feel like an Idiot to have brought this topic into discussion. Please forgive me, I won't talk about it again, I promise. Let's change the topic.'

 

'No baby, you don't have to apologize for something you didn't do. Its not your mistake that my mom died and you definitely aren't responsible for my dad's lack of attention towards me. I rather feel pleased to have discussed this with you. I have never told about my past to anyone, not even my other friends. I guess you are the first person I have poured my heart to and I feel really happy about that, trust me. '

 

While talking to Riddhima, an unintentional glancing at the minute hand coinciding with the hour hand forced him to speak in a surprised tone 'Gosh, its midnight and I am still sitting here. I better leave now. I have been such a pain for you already, let me give you a break now' and smiled.

 

'Not at all Armaan, I had a great time talking to you. It's the first time I have had a proper one-on-one chat with you and I must say you are the greatest friend anyone can have in their life. You are a great person and I am glad to have you in my life. Thank you so much for everything.'

 

'Oh no, your speech of thanks has started again. Before it turns into a full fledged one, I would take your leave as I am really really tired' he said while pretending to yawn.

 

Seeing off Riddhima, he drove off the lane leaving a smile on her face from the beautiful evening she had with him.

 

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'Dude, what all crap was it?'

 

'What the hell did you say up there, why didn't you tell the actual truth to her'..huh?' He found his mirror image sitting beside him posing all these questions at him as if attacking him in an interview.

 

'What truth, that was the truth only. I didn't lie to her, I told her about my past and how my life was similar to hers. What are you on about, huh?' He responded to his interviewer with a frustrated look.

 

'You know what I am talking about Armaan, that isn't the only reason why you care about her. That's not the only explanation of your concern towards her. Ask yourself, don't you like her'''don't you feel attracted towards her'''huh?'

 

Hearing those words echo in his ears, he tried to fight against them 'Uhhh''..what are you saying? That's bulls***, I respect her a lot and all this is out of concern. She is a very good friend of mine and I can do anything to make her happy.'

 

He saw his companion coming closer to him 'That's not true Armaan and you know that', it said pointing a finger towards him.

 

'Since day one, you have been attracted to her; first by her beauty and then by her polite and innocent nature. You can't fool me mister, I am a part of you only. You know you like her and the sooner you realize it, the better it would be. I can't believe you are behaving like a nutcase, why don't you accept the fact'''''Anyway, I'll leave you to make the decision yourself now''..See you later' With that, he noticed the image of his conscience disappear leaving him alone in his car.

 

Trying hard to concentrate on his driving, he felt those words disturb him all over again leaving him with nothing but a wondering, a big big wondering 'Do I like her, do I have feelings for her????.am I in love with her..............??

 

He felt a wide smile automatically developing on his face as he found the reply to all his queries, 'I think he was right''''I do like her, I do have feelings for her''''..Man''have i fallen in love with her?"

***PART 5***

He flung the keys over the table before sinking into his bed thinking of the events of the day and trying to make sense of his train of his chain of thoughts. He was startled by himself with the question he had popped to himself in the car.

"Do i love her? Am i in love with her??"

Armaan kept thinking to himself as he recalled his moments with her. He felt free and comfortable....unlike he ever felt when around with other girls. She was different. Simple, innocent and yet strong willed. It was her persona that drew him to her. She had her weak moments but she hadnt faltered once nor had she come and asked him to support her. She was fierce,independent and yet so very vulnerable from inside. When he had seen her at her weakest moments he was moved by the pain she had undergone and yet she wanted to fulfill her mother's dreams.

"Ahh i can just go on and on" he thought. "Why am i thinking so much about her. Ok now dont be silly and say you dont understand what is coming up. The plain fact is you're taking her to be more than just a friend .....you feel something more Armaan. She is special and its high time you accepted this glaring truth."

"She herself felt it too. You are treating her like that and pampering her so much. So dude, its clear....you're in it deep now." Armaan got up smiling as he flipped open his cell to see a picture of hers set as the wallpaper.....which he had taken when their project was declared to be the best one. She was smiling so very deeply and he felt he could just keep staring at her all night.

"Ok Armaan....she is special. Now lets see how deep your feelings are before making this obvious to her. I dont want to hurt her from my side. So mission Riddhima starts now from tomorrow." Armaan put his cell aside grinning as he ran his fingers through his hair.

"Yes but now from where on earth did this mission involve staring at her  longingly and  looking like a  cracked up fool to her.....giving her awkward feelings?  No Armaan, thats not your mission.....come on man, you can do it...........................now will you stop thinking for so long and start the car........its been 10 minutes already.......you fool!"

As they drove away Armaan noticed her fumbling with her dress constantly. That is when he noticed her properly leaving him with no other option but to scrutinize her from head to toe. She was wearing a flowery printed summer halter neck dress that made her look all the more beautiful. It seemed she had taken some extra efforts to enhance her beauty..........enlightening her features. The light touches of the blush so clearly visible on her cheeks.......the natural shade of gloss making her lips look deadly appealing. "Gosh Armaan at this rate, you'll go crazy man............."

"Armaannnnn?"

Hearing her sudden scream, Armaan looked at her with a shocked expression.........

Wondering what made her scream, he questioned his actions to himself "What happened, why did she scream? Okay, i was staring at her........hmm.......Armaan control yourself. You're sounding like a desperate fellow now...................Gosh, what is wrong with me? Now why did she scream mannnnn? Wait.......i was looking at her.....so, maybe i dodged a car ahead or something..............naah shutup..........you're driving in one side lanes you idiot, where will traffic come from the opposite side.........hmm........or maybe I accelerated the speed..........what the hell is wrong with me?"

"Armaan?"

"Oh............sorry Riddhima, whats wrong?" Armaan looked ahead to check everything...........it all looked fine to him, the speed too........."Then what was the issue dude?" he wondered to himself.

"Armaan the pace at which you're driving............we will definitely reach the university by tomorrow!"

 Riddhima chortled while Armaan looked ahead sheepishly to notice he was driving just in gear one past 20 minutes. Finally accelerating the speed, he looked straight ahead too embarrassed to even look at her.

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It had been two weeks now and Riddhima and Armaan soon came to be known as the best compatible team. Despite having their fair share if arguments over issues they never seemed to falter in giving the best performance. Everyone was greatly impressed. Who would have expected the shy, introvert girl to pair up with the charming, flamboyant guy??

"So Riddhima and Armaan? You will be doing this right? Together? I want it to be brilliant.....seeing your performances so far. You make a good team. If you want i can assign you more members" Mr Josh...their professor added while handing them a new assignment cum project. They were supposed to be doing it for an external company this time......if it turned out to be good then it would give both their grades and prestige a great kick.

"No Sir....we are fine..." Armaan nodded politely declining his offer for new members. He and Riddhima were just fine enough together.....a bit too fine enough he thought turning red slightly.

As they drove back home....Armaan noticed her sitting unusually quite.

"Riddhima? What's the matter?? "

"ummm nothing much its just that....." She looked at him listening earnestly to her.

"ya go on sweetheart...."

"Armaan i hope we pull through this project i mean....i am nervous...and..."

Armaan looked at her and smiled. Balancing the wheel with one hand and taking hold of her hand with his other he said

"We will Riddhima.....100% we will come out shining I promise."

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Riddhima looked over at him sitting with his back against her leaning against the table. She glanced at the clock. It was way past 2 am in the morning and they were still working just like past 2 weeks where they had been following the same routine. After classes were done they would either sit back in the library and work or as later on they found it was more convenient and comfortable to just head back home to Riddhima's place. Working late night's everyday was definitely taking the toll but neither of them seemed to mind it too much.

 

 It had not slipped out from Armaan's notice then whenever he was with her time just seemed to flow. He could just sit staring at her if nothing else. The two weeks had brought them pretty close in his opinion and he felt all more drawn towards her. The tiny feeling of being more then a friend towards her had grown to take a monster's form and now the slightest proximity with her had a tantalizing effect on him.

 As he got up to call it quits for the day or rather night he felt as if someone had placed a ton on his eyes which were severely sleep derived. Giving out a slight yawn he closed his mouth consciously as he saw her approaching him.

 

"Armaan why don't you stay back for today?  You seem pretty tired and it's already way past 2 am, stay back."

 

Armaan looked at her almost opening and closing his mouth like a goldfish. She was asking him to stay over the night? Agreed they practically spent 15 together from the 24 hours in a day but asking him to stay over??

 

'No Riddhima I'll just get going '.agreed its too late and I feel I should be going hence. '

Saying so he got up intending to make his way towards the door only to be stopped by her voice.

 

' Armaan stay back it's really ok I mean we have to get going back in a few hours and you going back and coming here again makes no sense'..i don't mind it really I mean. Or wait are you fearful of staying back alone with me for the night?'

 

Riddhima looked at him mischievously as he turned around grinning and walked towards her.

'You read my mind sweetheart. Now you don't take for a fool to spend a night alone with you. A handsome guy like me'..from a '.from a '..'

 

'From a what Armaan?' Riddhima looked at him glaring as though forbidding to utter anymore, dare he say a word and he had it. Armaan read her expressions and chuckled.

 

On an instinct he moved forward'.closing on 'on her . as the distance decreased he could sense  the gradual change in her as the confident challenging look was replaced by a nervous, withdrawn and shy look. Smiling he edged still closer. Barely being an inch apart he moved forward as he heard her breath in sharply and whispered.

 

'Actually sweetheart isn't it you the one who should be fearing me?? Beautiful lass like yourself all alone with a guy like me. Hmm the night seems to be interesting now. I had better stay back.'

 

He pulled looking at the confusion on her face and a slight fear contract in her eyes as he grinned at her. She looked away not knowing how to react. His seductive tone aroused a thousand new feelings in her suddenly. It wasn't that she feared him, not in the least. She knew it was just teasing on his part to annoy her, bug her. She knew it didn't mean any of it at all'..but no the closeness, the proximity had just created a tingling feeling , a new sensation run through her.

 

Seeing her lost Armaan wiped the grin and spoke.

'Riddhima?  I was just kidding sweetheart. Don't tell me you took me seriously''ok if you feel like that I'll leave and'.'

 

'Armaan no I know you were joking I mean I trust you now come on'.you can'.'

 

'Ohhhh so you trust me'.cards are in my favour'.lucky you Armaan' Armaan spoke in a hush tone smiling at her and winked.

 

'Then what are we waiting for Riddhima? Tell me shall I hit '.i mean we hit the bed?'

 

Riddhima chuckled at his non-stop dosage of cheeky lines as she moved towards the bed'.picking up a pillow she placed it on the couch and started straightening the creases on the bed as Armaan approached her.

 

'Wow your getting the bed ready? Your toh even faster and eager then I thought you to be. '

 

'Armaan shut up will you??' Riddhima glared at him furiously.

 

'Ok shutting up. Now will you tell me what are you upto honey?'

 

'Getting the bed ready for you ofcourse and putting up mine on the couch'

 

'So you mean I will sleep here on the bed while you on the couch. Are you crazy Riddhima?'

 

'No Armaan you are my guest. And ofcourse you will be sleeping here on the bed and'''

 

'Riddhima stop this'.what guest and all crap you are talking?? Just keep quite and go to sleep now on the bed'

 

'But Armaan'

 

'No buts'.'

'Armaan'

'Riddhima now'..' Armaan grabbed her from her shoulders and pushed her gently on the bed. Switching of the lights he grinned at her and spoke in a soft voice.

 

'Goodnight honey'.do you want me to help you fall asleep? I can definitely make the night more interesting' Armaan moved forward taking hold of her hand only to snapped away and receive a thud on his back with a cushion.

'I made a mistake by asking you to stay over'..how silly of me' Riddhima muttered annoyingly.

 

Armaan got up quickly chuckling and walked away before falling prey to any more snaps from her. He sank on the uncomfortable couch, trying his best to adjust himself there.

 

Unable to make himself comfortable he got up. The moonlight had cast a silvery effect all over the room as it streamed through the window'.he saw her in a deep slumber as he softly approached the bed. The exhaustion was so very clearly visible on her face but it yet it looked ever so dainty and beautiful.

 

Sitting down beside her he raised his hand to gently put aside loose strands blocking his view but then realized that they were perfect that way too. Just few strands here and there also made him smile lightly and deeply.

 

Your beautiful sweetheart. He thought. And it's your persona that's pulling me towards you rather then your features trust me'.he thought. The innocent charm you carry has cast a deep spell and now I am''

 

Armaan looked at her frowning slightly as he took hold of her hand. Holding it close to his heart he whispered.

 

'I have fallen hopelessly for you now Riddhima. Earlier I thought it was infatuation or plain attraction '..you the same old 'More then friend's kinda feeling?' But now as I think about it'.its no longer a juvenile fascination. What I feel is much deeper and way past and above those feelings. I wish for you to remain with me for the rest of my life. Just as you are. I wish to give the world. And all this points out to just one plain truth'..that'..'

 

Kissing her hand ever so softly he whispered 'I love you Riddhima'

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***PART 6***

 

"I love you Riddhima, really love you and want to give the world to you."

 

Armaan whispered gently stroking her hair .Looking at her frowning slightly as he took hold of her hand as he smiled.

 

He had never felt so strongly for anyone before. For years he had yearned for love and the much deserving attention that he had always been denied. He later unknowingly shunned away from any feelings that he felt fearing it would be snatched away and the rejection was unbearable. 

 

But Riddhima had managed to stir those same feelings he had shied away from and now that he saw her he knew she was the only one he could feel so for. Her persona had grown on him and besides the fact that he felt he could connect with her emotionally Armaan felt extremely protective about her and had some where at the back of his mind resolved never to allow a single tear trickle down those eyes.

 

Now that I know that its love I will not allow a frown even to appear on your face and will make you mine. Slightly gripping her hand he kissed it gently and whispered

 

 "You will be mine Riddhima, only mine"

 

........

 

 

As the first few light rays peeped in she opened her eyes to see him slumped on the floor with his head on the couch looking highly uncomfortable. Getting up she went up to him and gently tapped his shoulder.

 

Waking up he saw her standing besides looking a little embarrassed seeing his much obvious discomfort.

 

"Armaan its still 5.30, quite early u can just go and lie down. I am so sorry for the discomfort. You should have slept on the bed. "

 

"Riddhima ? Again your sorry shop has opened? Come off it. It was the most peaceful sleep I ever had."

 

 Armaan got up grinning at her. Rolling her eyes she walked away.

 

Following her to the tiny kitchen, as he noticed it was so extremely small that as he entered it seem to be filled up and crowded with just the two of them. As she handed him the steaming cup of coffee, he looked at her. She looked breathtaking even standing there just like that in a simple night gown fitting her curves perfectly.

 

Armaan you started early in the morning? He checked himself unbelievingly. Ok agreed she looks amazingly beautiful with the morning freshness just adorning her face even more but dude you need to take a chill-pill!

 

Tearing away his gaze unwillingly from her he looked around. It wasn?t the first time he was seeing her place and looking he felt guilty.

 

The sight of her place filled him with pity. Here he on one hand could buy another mansion at the snap of fingers and she?? You could barely call this place fit for a living. As a friend when he had seen it for the first time he was though filled with immense pity, he never had the guts to talk to her or even bring up this topic. That time was different and they didn?t even know each other. He knew he had no rights to comment on all this. She might feel humiliated or pitied upon.

 

Now that they had grown so close and now that the depth of his feelings had just grown with the span of time there was no way he wanted to see her living here like this?

How can I allow her to live in this place? Forget this dingy apartment, this colony, this area itself has a notorious reputation. I will have to talk to her about this.

 

Swallowing the cream he had just scoped up from the surface of his coffee, he put aside the cup and walked up to her, standing just behind her as the toast popped up from the toast maker.

She turned around suddenly making them both jump.

 

"Armaan? You scared me, what exactly are you up to?"

 

Grabbing the toast from her hand as she had barely just finished applying the butter.

 

"umm I'll have it without that extra fat mounds on it"

 

She looked disbelievingly at him as he put the piece in his mouth.

Looking at her stare at him in disbelief he spoke.........

 

"What? Dont tell me you're checking me out at this hour? Control yourself girl. I know I am smoking hot but Riddhima right now honestly!!"

 

"Will you shut up? Armaan how can you just keep flirting with me all day? "

"And night, correction Riddhima. Yesterday at 2am in the night also I was flirting I guess."

He winked at her as she looked at him furiously.

 

"Ok so sneaking up behind me like this is your style of flirting? Well done Mr Mallik, I didn't know you were so experienced in this field."

 

 Riddhima picked up the next piece before he could grab it and quickly walked out , her head all high up. Seeing her action, Armaan grinned and followed her out .

 

"Arre listen I wanted to talk about something more serious."

 

"You and serious? Now that's a rare combination Armaan. I am surely blessed to have the opportunity to witness it."

 

Armaan shook his head and spoke.........

 

 "Ok seriously Riddhima, listen up. Why don't you shift to a better place? I mean this place is like....and the area too...."

 

Riddhima looked at him a bit taken aback. Armaan saw her shocked expressions and hastily added," No no I mean that this is such place and i feel guilty that you should be staying here and...."

 

"Why do you feel guilty seeing me living here Armaan? I know I am not well off as you infact there can be no comparison in our status and i don't think you should feel sorry unless you are ashamed of being associated with me."

 

 Riddhima added with her pitch increasing. Armaan looked at her shocked by her reaction. She was actually thinking that he was ashamed of being associated with her?

 

"Riddhima you got me all wrong baby. I just wanted to see you living off better. I felt really concerned for you, as a friend, that's all" Armaan added quickly.

 

Riddhima's expressions softened a bit hearing his tone. She felt her eyes moist suddenly as tears unknowingly made their way out. Turning away she closed her eyes not knowing why she was making herself look so weak in front of him.

 

Lightly placing a hand on her shoulder he mumbled "I am sorry sweetheart; I didn't mean to make you feel otherwise. It's that I cant see you like this and trust me I just wanted to make you feel that I am here for you. You don't need to suffer so much when I am by your side. Look at this place. It's hardly fit enough for anybody to live here and you don't need to.........

"Armaan don't others live here? I mean in this area, in such dingy atmosphere that you call? Aren't people living? Why are you calling this incapable of a habitat? There are so many staying here?" she said with a frustrated tone.

"Riddhimaaaaa, I don't care about others ok. You are special to me. I mean as my friend, I don't go and ask everyone in this locality to change their houses and areas. I care about you, do you get that? Hence, I am saying for your betterment ,I cant see you suffering so much or?"

Armaan came closer and spoke in a furious tone trying to prove his point. "How in the world am I to explain her that, that she is all that matters to me?And she is taking it all wrong" he sighed in frustration looking away.

"I am sorry" he mumbled in a softer tone. "Cant get you to see my point Riddhima?"

Looking at his face, Riddhima felt guilty for taking his care and concern in the wrong manner. She moved forward and lightly placed her hand on his cheek. Armaan looked at her surprised and taken aback by her gesture. He stood still not moving a bit afraid she might jerk back.

"I am sorry Armaan, I thought you were saying all this out of pity, all my life I struggled not to be pitied upon. I am what I am and I am proud of whatever I have. I don't need anyone's favors or anything. You thought so much is more then enough for me. Thank you so much Armaan and I am sorry?"

She barely whispered all this looking straight in his eyes. Armaan stared back unblinkingly as he found himself sinking deeper in her magic. She looked so enchanting he thought. Unable to hold himself back he pulled her into his arms.

Riddhima crashed into him overcome with shock. She felt his hands holding her from the waist possessively as she kept her hands down awkwardly unable to fathom what to do as he still held her. Feeling her hands moving up hugging him back she closed her eyes. It was an altogether a novel feeling. As she stood there in his arms she felt a strange chill creep up along her body and felt light goosebumps along her skin. He was affecting her.

Pulling back she lowered her eyes as she felt him stare at her intensely.

"I am sorry Riddhima" he spoke. "I won't allow this topic to come or crop up between us ever ever ever again" Holding his ears he looked at her with a small smile playing along his lips.

"You don't have to be sorry Armaan. You just said it out of concern. I am truly touched by your gesture today, really."

The curve playing along his lips increased as he lightly moved forward and before she knew it, he placed a small peck on her forehead and whispered.

"I know.........now get ready while I just hop back home and grab a pair of clothes. I'll just be back" He winked at her as he left her house closing the door behind him..........She kept standing there dazed by what had just happened.

*********

Riddhima found it unusually difficult to concentrate today with him sitting beside her. No it wasn't the first time he was seated next to her.......but today, this closeness was tantalizing than ever. She felt her cheeks grow warm as she recollected the events of the morning and now even a slight brush of his fingers made her sit up straight and conscious.

She came out of her dreamy daze hearing Prof. John calling out her name. Jerking her attention back she glanced up at the professor.

"Riddhima, only for today as a change you will paired up with Kevin. His partner is absent and I want Armaan to help me instead."

********

Riddhima bid goodbye to Kevin as she stood at the main entrance. It had not been a very pleasant day without Armaan's presence and then whenever she saw him, he seemed in a very annoyed mood. She wondered why......

"Riddhimaa?" Kevin called her in a strong American accent. "If you don't mind I'll drop you home, its quite late you see?"

Riddhima smiled at his friendly gesture. She knew it was out of pure concern and that he wasn't hitting on her or she would made it out straight away.

"No, thanx a bunch Kevin, but I am sure Armaan must be on his way. He usually drops me off. My place is just in the way to his and soo......." Riddhima bit her lip glad to have supported the argument of Armaan dropping her home with the excuse that her place was in the way to his which wasn't true. It hadn't escaped her notice the very time he had dropped her that her place and his were in two different directions all together and that he would come all the way only to drop her off.

Not that she minded as his company was always a welcome she thought.

"Alright then I'll see you around?" She heard Kevin biding goodbye as he walked away. She barely acknowledged his parting as her eyes were looking around for Armaan.

"Glad you remembered that I come to drop you off." Riddhima breathed in sharply as she felt him whisper in her ear from behind.

"What do you mean Armaan?" She turned around to face him only to be greeted with a cold expression.

"I meant I am happy that you finally had time to recollect that I drop you off every day. Otherwise, seeing the new found friendship with Kevin I thought you might not recollect it you see."

Ridhhima looked at him dumbfolded. He was actually thinking that she and Kevin?

"Armaan do you even know what you're hinting at? He was just paired up with me today and talking casually doesn't imply anything more." Riddhima shot back getting furious.

"Where did I say there is something more? I just labeled it as new found friendship you see. Unless its something more from your side that you immediately thought and took it like that?" Armaan replied coldly as he now took hold of her hand and started moving forward.

"Where are you pulling me?" Riddhima practically hissed. She was amazed that he was the same guy she had known since so many days. The change in his behavior was drastic. She failed to understand what had gone wrong.

"I am driving you home Riddhima........whether you like it or not?"

Riddhima sat down beside him shocked to react. He had actually gripped her arm and pulled her to the car?? She looked at him as he started the car in silence.

"Armaan is there something wrong?" Riddhima looked at him feeling concerned.

"No!" Came a curt reply.

"Then Armaan why are you behaving like this? What wrong have I done?"

"No you haven't done anything Riddhima?"

Riddhima tried again "Atleast tell me what is bothering you?"

"Nothing at all."

Fed up of getting those curt replies she looked outside the fast images blurring past as he drove and felt her eyes swell up as she couldn't fathom what wrong she had done.

"So did you enjoy your day with Kevin?" Armaan asked her with a hint of sarcasm clearly visible in his voice.

Riddhima looked at him feeling a tear roll down her eye. She looked away choosing not to respond.

"So you didn't tell me Riddhima how was it hitting on a new guy?" Armaan grabbed her to face him as she winced with pain at the sudden gesture of his.

"Leave me Armaan and stop the car. Am getting off right here."

Armaan let go of her hearing the pain in her voice and looked straight.

"I said stop the car Armaan?" She ordered yet again.

Armaan just merely stepped up the gas peddle making it obvious that her plea had fallen on deaf ears.

Riddhima sat there unable to digest whatever was happening. He had actually made a grab at her. Shaking her head feeling tears rolling down she made a mental note to keep away from him.

As the car came to a halt she stepped out immediately only to be pulled back. Looking at him stonily she spoke "Armaan dare you hurt me again and I............."

He let go of her lowering his gaze and mumbled.

"Riddhima I am sorry........." He whispered.

Looking at his expression she sat back closing the door again facing him.

"I am sorry Riddhima?..I just don't know what took over me. When........when you weren't with me and I saw you with Kevin..........I........I..... Armaan muttered looking up seeing tears in her eyes.

"Sorry for being such a jerk Riddhima. I guess I got overly possessive..............its my nature I am sorry for being so harsh and making you a victim. Please forgive me?"

Riddhima's expressions softened as she saw him clearly ashamed of what had conspired. Placing her hand softly on his she spoke.

"Armaan its ok........but promise me you wont repeat this........he is just a friend and definitely not more important than you Armaan. I am sorry if I made you feel ignored..............it was just that........"

"Shhh.......... you needn't give me any explanations baby. Its all my fault, I reacted in such a brutal way. I am sorry" He mumbled.

"Its ok Armaan."

"So you have forgiven me honey?" He smiled looking hopefully at her.

"Yes"

"Are you sure?"

"Yes Armaan"

"100%"

"Yes Armaan forgiven you"

"So that means you wont be meeting that Kevin again right? Even if you're paired up with him say you're not well. I cant have any other guy being with......."

"Armaannnnn?" Riddhima smacked him playfully as he lightly took hold of her hand and held it close to him.

Riddhima instantly became conscious as she saw him holding her hand uncomfortably close. She felt the same strange unknown thrill creeping up.

Seeing her tear strained face Armaan moved his free hand towards her face to brush away the tears and gently tucked her hair beneath her ear as she lightly gasped feeling the tension build up.

"Riddhima I am really sorry for reacting the way I did. I don't know.........i am very possessive by nature which you must have noticed I believe but.........but seeing you with Kevin all day.I don't know it kind of made me mad. I know I have no right to interfere or dictate you or your life but.......i felt like just grabbing you away. Ofcourse it was natural I guess seeing another guy with the woman I love?????"

Armaan stopped biting his tongue. Riddhima looked at him shell shocked. She let go of his hand at that instant and continued to stare at him.

"What did you just say Armaan?"

"Nothing Riddhima? Its nothing? Umm.......your getting late.......I'll see you around in the morning baby?"

"Armaan don't lie? What did you just say?" She repeated emphasizing her words. Her tone was clearly high pitched.

"I said it was natural for any guy to react the way I did on seeing the woman he loves with another guy" Armaan mumbled meeting her gaze.

"The woman he loves?" Riddhima felt her insides churn as the words echoed in her ears. "That means...........that he?"

"I love you Riddhima.............its been coming since when. Trust me its not attraction that I have. I have already crossed all of that. Its only love.

He looked at her awaiting her reaction.

"I am sorry but I cannot just live with the term of being just friends with you Riddhima as its much more than that......and......."

He looked at her staring at him. She blinked and lowered her eyes.

"Its ok Riddhima if you don't feel the way I do but please don't leave me. I wont allow my feelings to interfere in our relationship, I promise. I will wait till you yourself feel the same. And, even if it doesn't come, I'll still wait. I am sure the day will come soon."

Armaan added bravely now weary of her reaction.

"Armaan? I don't know what to say. I......"

"Don't say anything Riddhima" he added simply.

"You don't need to say a thing. I understand and if you don't feel the way I do still.........I understand."

"Armaan, its not that. I need time to think." She looked up meeting his gaze.

"Riddhima you have all my time in the world and......"

"Armaan thank you. I.......I need time. So sorry........" She stammered.

Abruptly opening the door she got off the car.

"Goodnight Armaan."

She waved back closing the door behind her leaving Armaan looking at her hoping he hadn't taken a wrong turn by pouring out his feelings.

***********************************

As he held her close listening to her breathing still erratically  he closed his eyes pulling her closer still. " I need time Armaan" those words still echoed in his ears, the time he had confessed his feelings to her. She had looked so very taken aback by his words and her stunned expressions still brought a smile on his face.

Opening his eyes he looked down at her snuggled up close. Kissing her forehead lightly he whispered.

"I will bring my Riddhima ."

jia..2008-10-31 10:08:26