Chapter 4

*~*PART 11*~*

She looked over at him, the strain so very visible on his face. She had never seen him like this not even when we were suppoed to break the news of our marriage to everyone thought Riddhima. How I wish I could comfort him in some way she sighed. Whether attraction or not he was definitely special she thought. I am going to support him now Ridhima decided.

 

As he drove for the first time Armaan was tensed. Whatever grudges he held seem to fade away with the seemingly possibility looming overhead. Much as he hated accepting it, he was his Dad Armaan thought and whatever fate had put them through he will always be my dad and I will………………………..love him no matter what Armaan confessed to himself.

 

Placing a comforting hand on his she gave him a faint smile. Smiling back he knew it was her way to say she was with him. For the first time he didn't mind admitting that he was glad she was there. He didn't even bother to think now as to why was he changing his thoughts. He was just happy that she was with him.

 

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

Rahul looked over at Armaan hurrying through the corridor.

 

"where is dad?? I mean is he better or what, come on Bhai tell me!!! Why are u so very quite??"

 

Armaan looked at Rahul looking lifelessly at him. Panicking thinking the worse he looked away for Muskaan. As moved forward to the cabin Rahul spoke quitely

 

"Its all over Armaan. "

 

"No you are lying it cant be…………….." Armaan slumped down to the floor.

 

'He didn't suffer much" Rahul spoke in the low voice yet again. Armaan looked over at him. Tears did not come out as the grief took over him.

 

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

Riddhima looked over at him as they entered their room. He had been so very quite past the few days. He hadn't shed a single tear and not uttered a word as they finished the last rites. He seemed lost and one look on his face told her something had broken in him. He might claim that he wasn't affected or that he had wished to have nothing to do with his dad but the fact was deep down she knew he had been greatly affected.

 

As he slumped down on the couch, he looked out at the night listlessly. Everything seemed so distant today. Feeling her gentle hand on his shoulder as she sat next to him, he looked out.

 

"I didn't even look at him for the last time" Armaan mumbled.

 

"Armaan………."

" I mean how could I be so mean? I could have told him that that……..that……….."

 

Hearing his voice finally cracking up Ridhima moved closer to him. Placing her hand on his as he took hold of it tightly.

 

'That u always loved him" Armaan looked at her , finally the barrier he had built up broke as tears formed in his eyes.

 

'yes I loved him. Watever happened I cannot stop loving him ever" Breaking down he held his face in his palms.

 

"I held him responsible for everything. I could have just given him a chance. One more chance" Armaan whispered. Seeing tears streaming down his face Ridhima moved closer.

 

"Why didn't I give him a chance. I could have helped him out. I should have just …….but no I was too proud of myself. I was so rebellious. I hated the fact that he changed. I felt he should have thought about us. Did I ever try and understand him. No. I never tried. I was too full of myself. I distanced myself when he needed me the most. I am so mean………I…….."

 

"Armaan" Riddhima looked at him now in tears. She couldn't see him in pain. His tears were making her heart cry. Putting a hand on his shoulder she looked at him tearfully.

 

"No Armaan, u always loved him. Circumstances or call it fate just made you think like that at that time. Armaan your tears now will just hurt him all the more. Where ever he his, he will not like to see in tears ever. For his sake please stop cursing your self."

 

Looking at her in tears too he took her hand in his. Entwining his fingers he looked out at the stars.

"u know when I was young, I used to leave no chance to annoy him. "

 

 Smiling slightly he continued as if he were reliving that memory again.

" You know we used to study in a boarding on every opportunity possible sneak into the girls hostel. Climbing over wall we used to go up to the girls rooms. I remember getting caught almost every time. The principle must have called my dad at least a hundred times." Laughing silently he continued.

 

"He even threatened to expel me so many times. Every time Dad would come, listen to him and plead for my sake. Dad would catch my ears, but never fail to give me a last chance. He would put up with all my mischief's. Rahul was his angelic child while he would call me his adorable devil. He never even raised his hand. Patiently he used to put up with every action of mine. And when it was my turn came to give him a chance I turned my back?? Will he ever forgive me?? I cannot even ask him for a last chance now"

 

Crying silently Ridhima removed his palms from his face. Wiping away his tears she his hand lightly. Pulling her into a tight hug Armaan placed his head on her shoulder. As she hugged him back, she felt him sobbing still.

 

Pulling out of the hug she held his face in her hands and spoke softly.

 

"Armaan, he is always there with you, within you he will live alive for ever. Don't cry as your tears will hurt him. You should make him proud of you Armaan. He will be with you where ever you go, whatever you do. "

 

Wiping away his fresh tears she held his face looking at him. Not breaking the gaze she spoke in a yet more gentle tone. " So will I , so please stop crying Armaan. Now that you have let out your grief its time to get back and prove that the chances he gave you were not in vain."

 

Looking at her Armaan slid down and placed his head on her lap. As she gently ran her fingers through his hair, she looked at him fast asleep. Closing her eyes while her hand still on his hand she leaned against the wall falling asleep.

 

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

 

As the sun rays peeped in through she opened her eyes to find him curled up against her with his head on her lap and his arms clutching her waist. She stared at him sleeping , she knew she had been attracted to him from the moment he touched her at the ball. Pushing it out as attraction she tried not to pay attention to it much, but it was growing on her she knew it. From the past few days his persona had grown on her. Her marriage with him had put him in entire new light. He had ignored her before and hurt her too but there was something about him that she couldn't shake off. And the way he made up to her the last time had melted her completely. This is definitely not attraction she murmured as looked at him. Its something more.

 

He projects himself to be someone he isn't all the time but I guess I am finally getting glimpses of the real Armaan she thought. And its definitely not something she can now push out saying attraction or lust. He was affecting her slowly. Last nite as he cried she felt pain within. That's definitely pointing towards something more she wondered.

 

As she thought more she saw the position they were in. He had his head still on her lap with arms encircling her waist while her hand was still on his head. Ruffling his hair slightly she continued staring at him. Releasing what she was doing she took away her hand from his head and gently tried to move him aside. The movement caused him to shift his head on the other side only to clutch her more tightly.

 

Feeling his grip tighter Ridhima gasped. She shivered slightly feeling an unknown sensation ringing through her body.  She wanted to shake it off but something stopped her. One part of her mind wanted to stay like this forever. Blushing slightly she finally tried to move him once more but failed. Finally finding no other option she softly called out.

 

"Armaan?" "Can u please move a bit?"

 

Stirring slightly he didn't open his eyes. She called out again.

 

Opening his eyes he looked around in a daze. His eyes fell on her looking down at him awkwardly. Loose strands of hair fell over her face as she tried to shift her wait indicating him to move. Automatically his hands went up to her face to tuck away those loose tendrils. As he brought his hand closer to her face she instantaneously tucked them away breaking his gaze. Coming out of his daze he got up.

 

'Errm…….am sorry actually….."

"Whats that sorry for?" She asked curiously.

 

"ohh nothing…….nothing"

 

He looked at her getting up and going towards the washroom. Smiling slightly for the first time in the past few days, he got up. Opening the wardrobe he removed something and placed it on the bed, waiting for her.

 

As she came out to grab her clothes before going to the shower , he moved forward blocking her way . Surprised by his gesture she looked at him quizzically.

 

"Ridhima I want to thankyou for the support you have been. Had you not been I don't know what………." Taking hold of her hands in his in looked down.

 

"Shhh u really need to thank me Armaan? I mean I did whatever I felt like at that moment and u don't need to say thank you as if I did you a favor. It was just………."

He placed his finger on her lips. They quivered slightly. Staring into those eyes he just cudnt break away from her spell.

 

'ok no thankyou then. Lets change the topic. I have removed this for you, will you wear it?" She looked at him stepping aside and pointing towards the pink saree on the bed.

 

"Armaan? You want me?..........You actually removed it?" Laughing slightly at her reactions.

 

"Well if you can select my clothes everyday so can I! Its revenge time u see. Now I can select your clothes and then we will really look a pair as otherwise when only u select mine then I am the one who looks horrendous in those shocking combinations!"

"So Mr Mallik u mean my choice is so very distasteful?" ridz retorted indignantly.

 

'hmm now when did I say such a thing Ridz?" Armaan asked innocently while holding back as laughter as her expressions changed from mischievous to annoyed to amusement as she finally settled to blush as he looked at her roaring with laughter . Pulling her close he whispered.

 

"So will you give me company in looking distasteful today?" Nodding smilingly she picked p the saree and made her way back . Feeling really happy to see him smiling, while Armaan stood there looking at her.

 

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

 

Glancing at Shanshank wondering for the 10^th time in past five minutes Armaan sighed waiting rather impatiently for Shanshank to finally tell for what reasons had he called him so early. I could have brought Ridz too with me he thought annoyed at being called early. He had to rush as soon as the call came leaving her behind.

 

Finally looking up Shanshank spoke.

 

"Armaan as you know we have our branch in Mumbai too. A very good friend and collegue of mine Dr Subhankar is in charge of it. I thought that since now you have taken up this administration responsibility you go there and get some first hand experience. I am still here to handle things, so just to get more experience and a view into how things actually work you go there and learn to handle things. For 2-3 months or so I suggest. I have it all arranged. You go there now and you will assist Shubhankar in the administration along with ofcourse along with being a senior resisdent doctor there. So when will you like to join?"

 

"Sir I feel it's a great idea , I am very glad you considered me fit enough. We will leave in this week itself"

 

"Yes that's fine but WE?" Shanshank looked at him questioningly.

 

"I mean Riddhima and me ofcourse" Armaan answered promptly.

 

"Why should she come along? She is fine here Armaan, I see no need to take her along. This is for you , let her be here."

 

"Sir I respect your opinion but Ridhima will accompany me there"

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

 ~**PART 12**~

Shanshank looked over at him surprised as he spoke in firm but calm tone.

 

"Sir Riddhima will come with I mean………."

 

"But why should she come Armaan? I see no reason for you insisting on her coming unless you have forgotten the real reason you married her and are now………should I give your memory a jog?"

 

Armaan released what exactly he was hinting to do. Change of plan he thought. I will have to try another route to tackle my Sasurji. Man Riddhima you have some father, but you are coming with me no matter what he muttered under his breath.

 

"No no uncle, how can you ever expect me to forget it? I still am focused but you see if like we leave her here while I go for training then it will raise questions na? Like afterall its all under our name together and officially we both are in charge so if I go for the better then it will definitely raise eyebrows and Riddhima might get very suspicious too"

 

 Hope you fall into this bait Sasurji, thought Armaan. I am running out of reasons to take her with me. Hang on do I know why actually I am insisting so much wondered Armaan. Oh well I am not going to think. My heart says I want her to come and I will make sure she does. I will not leave her alone in the company of this sly old man.

 

Seeing Armaan lost Shanshank snapped his fingers.

 

"Where are you lost Armaan? Well I see your point too. This deal shouldn't be known to everyone. Ok take her with you but you better take care that you don't forget your goals and get distracted."

 

"No no uncle never ever. I will definitely live up to your expectations." Armaan said smiling in an oily voice

 

As he left the Armaan felt like jumping with joy as the thought of going with her alone had aroused a strange exciting feeling in him.

 

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

As he sat in his cabin going around in circles on his chair waiting for her he just could not concentrate. His eyes were glued to the door. Last nights event flashed back. The way she had comforted him, consoled him, hugged him and then he went to sleep on her lap. He grinned thinking of all these. That has to be my most comforting sleep ever he thought smiling.

 

He longer thought why she was affecting or why was he so very eager to always be near her. She is different he thought. When she hugged me I wanted to hold her forever, I wanted her to promise she will always be by my side and………..she did as he remembered her words.

 

"Armaan, he is always there with you, within you he will live alive for ever. Don't cry as your tears will hurt him. You should make him proud of you Armaan. He will be with you where ever you go, whatever you do. And So will I "

 

So will I. His smiled deepened as he let the effect of these words feel through him. You are special Riddhima. No other woman has ever changed me so much. You supported me when I was at the lowest. Dude you have it bad he thought. Am I ……………….thought Armaan. Am I falling in love?

 

Stopping the chair midway he looked up. As he closed his eyes he could just see her face. Right from the ball when he danced , her shining eyes that time, he knew he had liked her there and then. But he liked any beautiful babe he thought. That time he had just put it off as his usual flare for women. But then as he remembered her, meeting her for the first time in the hospital, she was the same. Those same sparkling eyes, innocence and pureness so very visible. He wasn't ready to accept the fact that she was affecting him then. The feeling was slowly creeping and he was just not ready to accept it. But then when they got married, he remembered her pale face, all sparkle lost, her nervous body language. He wanted to comfort her at that time.

 

You have changed me Riddhima. Armaan finally opened his eyes. You brought the real Armaan, the one who had died years ago. You made my want to live life all over again. Love cannot be rationed on conditions and you taught me that. I would have completely become a wreck after father but you have instead changed my whole life giving it a complete now meaning. I think I have……….Armaan closed his eyes again.

 

I think I have fallen in love with you Riddhima. Yes he stood up smiling and laughing at the same time. I love you Riddhima. Throwing some paper in his hand in the air he swung around his chair in a complete 360 turn. Yes I love you Riddhima he spoke , loudly this time. He felt so happy. More happier then he had ever been in his life. The realization had finally dawned on him. The confusion, the hesitation now vanished. He had been battling since days. But now no more he thought. I love her truly. As the chair came to rest and the final bits of paper fell on his face he grinned.

 

Now where did I suddenly get inspired to do all this. Confess to myself in truly bollywood style huh? Armaan dude what about taking a jump in movies? You might give SRK some competition. Your right he thought. But my heroine should always be Riddhima he laughed at his chain of thoughts.

 

I have to find out what she feels he thought. Does she feel the same?? Armaan Mallik will fish it out he grinned. And even if don't honey I will make fall in love as I love you uncondionally he muttered.

 

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

He saw her entering the cabin smiling. Smiling he stodd up and pulled a chair for her. Surprise by all this attention Riddhima lowered her eyes. What is wrong today she thought. Ok he just pulled up a chair but first the saree in the morning and now?? Have I applied extra blush she wondered consciously.

 

"u called me Armaan? Wat happened anything urgent? What did dad say?"

 

'yes actually its very important Ridz"

She looked at him surprised yet again as he addressed her as Ridz, now he called me Riddhima this whole two months since I met him, wats with this Ridz, she mused.

 

"well actually sasurji ……imean uncle wants me to go for this work experience for 2-3 months to Mumbai, u know na we have another branch there under some Dr Shubhankar? Well he wants me to assist there in administration and leave for this immediately so ……."

 

"so u will leave soon?" Riddhima asked with a sinking feeling. Just when he was growing on her BANG……..he is going away she thought. And why didn't dad ask me too. Afterall I have equal share too.

 

Looking at her face Armaan smiled satisfied seeing what he wanted to see. She will miss me I feel Armaan thought that is if I will leave her which I will never. Ok Armaan so one thing cleared. She will miss you.

 

"Yes Riddhima WE will leave by this weekend." He stopped to see the effect of his words. Her expression changed from frown to shocked to finally a slight blush showing her happiness.

 

'We Armaan? I thought only you were going? "

 

'No ofcourse not, you are ofcourse coming along with me. How can I go without my better half? I mean from this entire administration point of view and will etc…….." armaan smiled looking at her expressions

 

Riddhima smiled back. Suddenly she remembered something.

 

"errm……Armaan can I talk to you about something? Its quite like……I hope you don't take me wrong. I mean its not to hurt you but I just felt…."

 

'Say it honey, do you really need my permission? And whatever happens I am not going to think wrongly of you dear" He smiled taking hold of her hand over the table.

 

Riddhima took back her hand lowering her eyes. Something was definitely wrong with him. Had he had a shot early morning she wondered. No no what is wrong with you Ridz, he is just being sweet. Ashamed of having her thoughts going wrong she stammered with what she had come to say.

 

"Armaan actually I was thinking about Rahul and Muskaan.I mean they were supposed to get married but we got instead and so Rahul delayed it for a few weeks and now with uncle's death I mean…………"

 

She stopped scared with what mite this trigger off. She didn't want him to be depressed again. Oh crap why did I mention this? Ridz cursed herself.

 

Armaan sensed her discomfort and nervousness. Bringing his father again on top did stir heart but he knew it wasn't her intention.

 

'Ridz go on, please don't stop, you don't need to be so uncomfortable. You are now a part of my family and whatever you are thinking will be good."

 

Grateful for his support Riddhima continued.

 

"Armaan its been such a long time there are together and both have been waiting to officially announce them as a couple , but first because of us and then……….they have postponed it so much. And Rahul seems so depressed nowadays. Really Armaan cant we do anything?"

 

 

"hmm your rite Ridz even I was thinking the same but Bhai has taken this too hard I guess, well he had too he was the closest and so was I to dad I mean………." Armaan stopped in midway unable to continue any further.

 

Riddhima took hold of his hand now and squeezed it gently. Giving her faint smile he continued.

"So what do you have in mind? Any idea how to convince him now since he is talking about postponing it for like 5-6 months!! He is right in one way though but I cant see him so depressed and Muskaan is the only who can handle him………"

 

"Armaan we can get them engaged? I mean marriage cannot just happen now. No one is ready for it so lets force them to atleast get engaged, like you know not a huge party and all, just a short ceremony among family and few close friends. It will atleast take his mind away from this shock?" Only if you feel it ok, otherwise………….."

 

'no no Ridz that's a great idea u know just among family and all. I will coax them into it don't worry and it will have to be this weekend itself before we leave right?" Armaan winked at her.

 

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

Rahul saw her in the kitchen busy with the preparations, she had taken a day off just for them.

 

"Riddhima?" Shall I help you with anything. I mean its so very sweet of you to offer to do all preparation by and you didn't even allowMuskaan to enter the house forget the kitchen , Anjali ofcourse you forbade and it was right as in such conditions I don't want her straining herself. But Muskaan……"

 

'Rahul, I mean bhai……..errm what to address you as I am sorry I don't know?" Riddhima smiled sheepishly .

 

'Oh Rahul is fine Riddhima"

 

'Rahul its your engagement and you are not going to touch a thing in here neither is Muskaan. What do you guys expect? I will not allow you both to prepare stuff for your own engagement. So shoo out" Riddhima pointed the roller at Rahul smilingly.

 

"Aye aye Madam. As you wish fine!! I will, but Riddhima I am really glad to see the way you have moulded yourself in our family. I mean I am really happy to see this really!!  I just hope Armaan isn't much of……..I mean…………?"

 

'Rahul this is my family too now, am glad you accepted me so well and Armaan………." Giggling slightly as Rahul looked at her surprised

 

"Armaan treats me more than well or rather I never thought he will go out of his way to make things easy for me, he………….."

 

'Hmm someone is praising me huh?" Armaan stood at the door smiling.

 

'nop Armaan I was just warning Ridz about you. She hasn't seen your true colors as yet you see." Rahul grinned at him.

 

"Oye Bhai I will not argue with you today as its your day ok. Yougo out of the kitchen and get ready"

 

"Hmm Armaan cant you frankly say you want some time alone with Ridz "

 Rahul mocked looking at Armaan.

 

"No no Bhai nothing like that……..i just came too…….." Armaan stopped blushing a little.

 

"Ok am out of here have fun" Rahul winked at Armaan as he went out.

 

"Riddhima its really so very sweet of you to do this I am really…….." Armaan came forward and stood behind Ridz.

 

' No no Armaan I am doing it because I wanted to and you don't need to…………" Suddenly she became aware of him being right behind her. She consciously took the knife slightly trembling a little.. not looking back she continued doing what she was aware of his gaze on her.

 

" No Ridz" He whispered. I still want to thank you" Saying so before she could react he gave a slight peck on her cheeks and went away quickly while Ridz stood there dazed touching her cheeks wondering at what just happened.

 

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

He looked at her moving around talking to Anjali and Atul as Muskaan joined them. She looks breath taking in green he thought. As he went forward to join them Muskaan spoke up.

 

"Wow Armaan u both matching today. Now is that a coincidence" Muskaan taunted laughing.

 

'Oh yes I didn't notice u both matching yaar. That's great you know!!" Atul spoke looking at Armaan who was dressed in a green too enhancing his already killer looks all the more.

 

"I pity all the lasses here Armaan, many are going to loose their hearts tonite once they see you" Anjali winked at Armaan while Atul cleared his throat a bit loudly .

 

"Hmm about the rest I don't know but will the one whom I lost my heart too ?" Armaan spoke up looking intently at Ridz while Muskaan did an "oooo" in the background.

 

He is openly flirting with me Ridz wondered? Whats wrong with him? How come in landed up wearing green too? As Ridz wondered , she was called as the ceremony was about to begin.

 

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

As the ceremony ended with everyone wishing congrats to the officially announced couple Armaan sat down beside them happy too see the smiles on their faces. All thanx to Ridz he thought his smile widening even more.

 

"Armaan, Rahul tld me you used to sing?" Muskaan looked at Armaan questioningly. " How come I never knew? I know from so many years?"

 

"That's because he stopped after……….dad……." Rahul answered softly. Giving an understanding nod Muskaan continued further.

 

"Armaan please I would love to see you sing once more. Please do so na for my sake. All those girls who have their hearts beating fast already seeing you will have an heart attack for sure." Muskaan giggled while Armaan answered negatively.

 

"No Muskaan Bhabs I left it ages ago, as it is I was never a good one too it was just I used tolove singing at that time and………."

 

"Armaan pls for me" Muskaan pleaded.

" see tonite after this party toh you and Ridz are going away for like 2-3 months pls try na for me once."

 

As Armaan still looked reluctant Rahul chimed "armaan she is coaxing you so much go ahead na.I know you had stopped but that doesn't mean you cant start again."

 

"But Bhai" Armaan argued

 

"No Armaan you have too atleast not for us then Riddhima your talent" Rahul grinned slyly as Armaan gave him a furious look.

 

After much convincing as he finally agreed , he saw Ridz waiting for him expectantly. He smiled as he moved towards her.

 

 

 

"Jo kwaabo khayaloon mein socha nahin tha
Tu ne mujhe itna pyaar diya
Mein jab bhi jahan bhi kadi dhoop mein tha
Teri zulf ne mujh pe saya kiya

Haan tu hai haan tu hai
Meri baaton mein tu hai
Meri kwaabo mein tu yaadon mein tu
Irradon mein tu hai
Irradon mein tu hai"

Riddhima looked at him surprised he as he came closer. Moving around her he continued as she blushed.

Yehhh…we could fall in love
I say… I could fall in love with you
Yehhh…we could fall in love
And i say… I could fall in love with you

Koi bhi aaisa lamha nahin hai
Jisme mere tu hota nahin hai
Mein so bhi jaao raathon mein lakin
Tu hai ki mujh mein sotha nahin hai
Tu hai ki mujh mein sotha nahin hai

Haan tu hai haan tu hai
Meri baaton mein tu hai
Meri kwaabo mein tu yaadon mein tu
Irradon mein tu hai
Irradon mein tu hai

Riddhma looked at him completely stunned as continued singing looking only at her. All eyes were on him but his eyes only saw her.She was aware of his intense gaze on her. She quivered a little as deep down she somehow felt it was only for her.

Hai teri innayat tujhse mili hai
Hoonto pe mere hasi jo khili hai
Usse mera chehra chupa bhi na paye
Tujhe paake hasil huye jo khushi hai
Tujhe paake hasil huye jo khushi

 

Haan tu hai haan tu hai
Meri baaton mein tu hai
Meri kwaabo mein tu yaadon mein tu
Irradon mein tu hai

As thehall broke out in a round of applause Armaan looked only at her waiting for her reaction. As everyone came forward to pat him he looked at her smiling. As she came forward he waited expectantly.

"That was brilliant Armaan I never knew you could sing so well.!!"

"It was straight from my heart for some one very special to my heart." Armaan whispered as Riddhima looked away turning red.

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

He looked at her pushing te trolley along with him as they walked out of the airport gates. The flight though not long had been tiring and she had been so quite he wondered why. They came out of the main gates as Armaan breathed in the salty and smelly air of Mumbai.

"On behalf of Dr Shubhankar ?" Armaan enquired looking at the guy holding the board saying Armaan Mallik.

~**PART 13**~

As they drove away from the airport into the city Armaan glanced at Riddhima. It was not even dawn yet . They had arrived there in the middle of the night as duration of flights from Delhi to Mumbai was barely an hour an a half. She looked away outside the window as the not so cool night breeze hit her face. She hadn't uttered a word since they arrived or sat in the car Shubhankar had sent for them.

Placing a hand on hers unable to hold any longer he asked.

"Honey? What's wrong? Why are so very quite? Any problem?" He gently asked.

Breaking from her daze she muttered " No Armaan nothing, I am just a little tired I guess after the ceremony we left immediately so I think I am a bit worn off, a little sleep should do the trick I think."

Seeing her faint smile he looked at her unsurely.

"Ok honey as you wish. As soon as we reach there and meet Dr Shubhankar you can go ahead and rest after that" he smiled looking at her and slowly put an arm around her. Looking at him surprised again she didn't ask him to remove the arm.

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

"hello Dr Armaan and Riddhima right? Am Dr Shubhankar. Incharge of this branch of sanjeevni under Dr Shanshank ofcourse." Armaan shook hands with Shubhankar as he led them inside.

"I hope your journey was ok?" Enquired Shubhankar.

"Oh it was alright. No problems at all." Armaan smiled.

"That's great. Ok Armaan and Riddhima temporarily I have put u up in the doctors quarters here. They are a pretty small but all this was at such a short notice and……… so I really apologize for this inconvience. I would have booked you a hotel room but u were coming so very late so I though best you stay here till morning then we will see. I hope you both will not mind .Then in the morning if you want we can shift you to the hotel or where ever till the accommodation issue is sorted out."

"No problems at all Dr Shubhankar. We can definitely adjust, you don't need to worry. Thank you for assisting us till now. Right Riddhima"

As Riddhima nodded her head agreeing Shubhankar smiled.

As they walked down to their quarters. "Well you see Dr Armaan…….all those who come to this branch love staying at doctors quarters despite them being so small and cramped with only one room."

As Armaan looked at him confused he explained further.

"its like our hospital isn't exactly on the beach infact quite away but the campus is so huge that doctors quarters have been built almost at the edge touching the beach. People specially from outside love staying there as they are so very very close to the beach."

"oh the beach I thought I could smell salt in the air!" shubhankar nodded smilingly as Armaan looked a surprised as Riddhima finally spoke up something.

"Ok goodnight and see you in the morning!" Armaan wished him the same Shubhankar left them at the doorstep.

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

Armaan looked over at the small quarter with only one room and a small kinda living room cum kitchen etc, very distasteful Armaan muttered. Wow sasurji running a bid hospital and cant make a better quarter? .

 He looked at Riddhima coming out of the washroom and sitting on the bed looking tired.

"Ridz? Why don't you go off to sleep? I mean you go to sleep here while I will sleep outside in that living room or is it a kitchen or whatever?" Armaan spoke to her as he laughed. "I mean now that we are alone you can be comfortable. I will sleep outside honey. Don't worry.

"No Armaan you can ofcourse sleep here okie. I mean I trust you that much now. Atleast after spending more then a month with you sharing a room. Its really ok. You need not go get so uncomfortable for my sake. If you are caring so much about I cannot be so very mean right?"

Riddhima smiled as Armaan came near her. Holding her shoulders he pushed her down on the bed gently, as he sat on the edge of the bed.

"Go to sleep now honey. I am so happy to hear this today. U trust me? Thank you honey. Am never gonna break your trust ok. No you go to sleep here while I go outside. Sweet dreams."

 Riddhima looked at Armaan stunned at his words. She looked at pull the covers over her as he gently kissed her fingers lightly. Moving out switching off the lights as he moved out Ridz continued staring and thinking about all he said. Kissing over the same fingers were he had placed his lips she whispered.

"Goodnite Armaan."

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

Armaan moved out into the very small balcony. The warm night breeze hit his face. Despite feeling warm he felt very pleasant as the air rushed past his face. Its quite pleasant he thought. NO wonder Shubhankar was saying people love staying here. His thoughts wandered to Ridz. His smile deepened as he remembered her words.

I mean I trust you that much now. Atleast after spending more then a month with you sharing a room. Its really ok. You need not go get so uncomfortable for my sake. If you are caring so much about I cannot be so very mean right?"

I trust u ? He smiled again. Those simple words had made him so very delighted. She trusts me Armaan whispered softly. Yes my love trusts me. He spoke a little loudly and gleefully.

Suddenly he went inside and into their room where Riddhima had fallen asleep. He stood there looking at he face in moonlight. Moving still closer he sat at the edge of the bed. "I can never break your trust jaan" He whispered softly.

Giving a soft peck on her forehead he slid down from the bed on the floor. Taking her hand in his he couldn't help kissing her wrist yet again. Looking at her he placed his chin on her hand staring at her.

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

Smelling extremely usual warm salty air Riddhima woke up with a start thinking where she was. Looking around she remembered they were in Mumbai. Smiling slightly she looked around. Her eyes soon felt on him sleeping soundly with his head on her palm as if it were a cushion. He slept on the floor the whole night? Riddhima looked at him stunned.

She gently tried to take away her hand not wanting to wake him up. As she tried he now clutched her hands with both his hands making it even more difficult for her. Smiling slightly and turning pink she couldn't help ruffling his hair. She stared at him clutching her hand. She felt so special.

"I never break your trust honey" She moved closer to his face as she recalled his words last night. He is so very perfect she thought. The way he cared for her nobody had ever done so. He had changed so much over the past few days. This is the real Armaan she thought. Caring, warm, loving and gentle she blushed as she numbered these qualities. He seems to know me so well. He treats me with so much care. No one has ever treated me so nicely or made me feel so special. He never goes out of his way to make me comfortable. Just being with him makes me comfortable. He just has to be his self and I feel as if the whole world is beautiful.

She gently touched his cheeks as she remembered how he broke down that night. My heart was crying with you Armaan. I just couldn't see in that state. I don't know why but you are special Armaan. You are affecting me and I know it. But do I mind? Do I mind when you do those little things that make smile, do I mind when you in your own way show me that you care for me so much, do I mind when you come close to me due to which I skip I heartbeat?

No a small voice spoke in her head. I don't mind. And I guess I have discovered the reason by now. I knew it way from the beginning why I found him so special. Because I have……………but I still need to assured. What if all this is just a sympathy or just friendship or just plain humanity for that matter from his part. I cannot take another heart break.

She stopped her thoughts as he stirred. As he snuggled up more closely on her arm she suddenly got an idea. Smiling slightly she moved forward. Bending a little to reach his ears she spoke.

"Wake up Armaan or you will have to go hungry as I cannot cook with one hand. My other hand has been crushed to last bit by your overly large head." She shouted in his ears.

Armaan jerked up putting his fingers in his ears.

"what the hell was that Ridz? First of all I spelt on the floor and this is what I get? and whats with my head? Look at yourself first. Bloated like a balloon "

Armaan folded his legs and sat looking the other way like a spoilt child looking so very adorable Riddhima thought. Pinching his nose as she got up she spoke.

"Yes that is all you get as I didn't ask you to sleep on the floor. And forget your head I think you nose is a bit too long and you ears……." She giggled as she ran into the bathroom as Armaan picked up the pillow aiming at her.

Laughing Armaan  put the pillow down. He loved seeing her giggle.

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

Armaan searched for her as he came inside the quarter. It had almost been more than a week and they had now settled down in Mumbai. Getting used to weather, the city. The week had been one of the most terrible and grueling week for them specially Armaan. They were resident doctors and along with that learning ropes of administration too. Armaan had sensed that he had more workload then Ridz even though they were supposed to be doing everything equally.

On enquiring Shubhankar had spilled the beans that Shanshank had ordered him to train Armaan to the fullest. He should be made more then perfect. Armaan remembered Shubhankar's words. Ya rite make me more then perfect by making me work like a donkey. His day started in the wee hours of morning and ended late at nights. Sometimes he didn't sleep all night and Riddhima…………

He felt very unhappy as he thought about her. He hadn't even spoken to her properly after the day they arrived. When he left she would be asleep and when he returned she would again be asleep. His heart went out to her as he remembered her sleeping on the dinning table once waiting for him.

This sasurji …..he gritted his teeth. Make me a perfect doctor, make me a perfect administrator but don't allow me to become a perfect husband.

He muttered angrily. No I will first be more then perfect husband then rest can follow he kept muttering angrily. But where the hell is my wife now? Beach he thought!! Yes she will be there. As he recollected yet again she had this fascination for beaches. Only few days ago when he had come and hadn't found her in the house at that time of the night he had panicked and gone outside searching. He had found her walking along the water.

 Joining her there he wanted to ask her what was she doing there at that time alone? But he had been so tired that it showed on his face and he had no choice as Ridz pulled him into the house looking at his face. Then again when Shubhankar had suggested to shift them to a hotel or something she had refused saying she wanted to stay there as the beach was so near.

She must be there he thought as he made his way there. I was right Armaan grinned as he saw her sitting peacefully on the sat starring at the dark waters. Today for a change the breeze was a little cooler than usual.

"Armaan? So early today?" She looked him as he sat down next to her.

'yup I told them I want to go and sit next my half mad wife who sits alone on the beach at late nights. So they let me go" Armaan grinned looking at her as she looked daggers at him.

Moving more closer to her he whispered "comeon Ridz tell me which handsome hunk cums to meet you here? Every night? Tell the truth? Am sure he cant be handsome as me but your choice isn't………or wait is it a whale? Or a dolphin? All are mammals so you shudnt have any problems, or yes I get it's a merman?"

'Shutup Armaan and whats this Merman?"

"opposite of mermaids…….honestly if u have found a merman tell me then I can get myself a mermaid ………ohh u remember that Disney cartoon? That hot and beautiful mermaid princess cartoon they had. I wudnt mind her u know. She looks…………."

"stop eating my eating Armaan. And I didn't know that it was ur age to drool over cartoon princesses, grow up will you?"

Moving a little more closer and slowly taking her hand in his he held it close to his chest.

'Then what should I do? I think I should drool over a real princess then, like the one sitting right beside me?"

looking at her turning deep shade of red he smiled. He knew he had hit right on target. Great going my boy he congratulated himself. Looking at her becoming conscious he decided to change the topic.

"So what is my princess doing here may I know?" He asked playing with her fingers.

"Armaan" She spoke softly.

"I love the sound of the waves. Its so peaceful, so calming. Just love the whole atmosphere." He looked at staring ahead dreamily.

Putting his hand gently around her shoulders he pulled her close to him. She automatically leaned in him. Her head on his chest. Interlocking his fingers with hers he waited for to continue.

"I always loved this Armaan. When I was young I would keep dreaming of having a house besides the beach. A perfect home with a perfect family. The house would be fully white and have a spiral staircase up to my bedroom which would overlook the sea. My bedroom would also be in white with this huge closet where I wud arrange all my stuff. Have a separate rack only for shoes and the clothes. And there would be this huge balcony overlooking the sea where I could sit for hours together.And then have this huge mirror in my room just above the makeup stand and all."

Laughing a little she looked up at him.

"you must be thinking I am such a baby na? Thinking of such things?"

"No honey everyone has such dreams. And……."

"and they never get fulfilled" Ridz completed the sentence in a tone full of remorse as she put her head back on his chest. As he saw a lone tear escaping her eye he pulled her still closer and wiped the tear.

"No honey dreams are meant to be fulfilled. We dream of something as we actually want it to happen in our lives. Ok if you say u want to go and play on the moon then its not logically possible but otherwise……. If you loose hope then you cannot survive Ridz,"

"Well I too lived on that hope as you call it. Sent away to boarding school when I was hardly of age. I loved mom so much. I didn't know why dad insisted on me going away. I didn't want to leave her. Every vacation I wud return and coax them to take me out or holidays, to bring me aleast to Mumbai. But no we never went out on any vacations as dad was always too busy. He never actually had time to look at us and mom much as she loved us, she was always unhappy. I still don't understand why? Dad didn't give her time but Armaan we loved her. She was our world. U know she would tell me, Riddhima one day ur dream will cum true.

Then one fine I was called back as my only friend, my only soul had gone away, far away ftom me. My mom. I cried so much. But nothing changed. I was sent back and then sent away to US. And my dream remained a dream. Now that sit here and look at the waters all those memories coming flashing back. Its all so very very ............."

Armaan wrapped both his armas around her. He had tears in his eyes. He held her close for sometime. Finally hearing her sobs stop he looked at her to find her fast asleep in his arms.

Gently picking her up he went inside. Gently putting her on the bed he sat there starring at her forlorn, tear-strained face as he placed it on his lap. Wiping away the dry tears he couldn't help kissing her cheeks.

"I love you Ridz and I will give you the world"

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

She giggled as he tied the saturn ribbon around her eyes.

"Armaan atleast tell me where we are going? You actually took an off for us both? Atleast tell me why did you take an entire day off? We have so much workload and how did u convince Shubhankar and where…………..?"

"shh" He placed a finger on her lips. As he started the car and drove , he spoke.

"will Riddhima gear up urself as I am taking you to meet my mermaid princess, the only true love of my life!!"

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PART 13 folks.I dont know whats got into me but i am no longer testing ur patience i guess

And again quite long this time too!! I really hope u all find it upto the mark if not good. Please comment if you find it worth your time.

Love you all for all your support

Jia

jia..2008-12-21 04:56:38