A Path to being Content (ff)

Hello All,

This is my first time writing on this forum. I am new to this forum, so please excuse any grammatical mistakes. Only the characters are the same. The plot is completely my own imagination.

Chapter 1;

Rani rushed into the hospital cabin, herbrother in tow. Her father, Ramadheer, lay in the bed in the middle, the machines around him beeping. Tears rushed to her eyes, and she bit her lips tocontrol herself. How could she cry right now? Her father, brother needed her tobe strong. The noise distracted him from the conversation he was having with the doctor beside him.

“Beta?” He said, trying to sit up. The doctor fortunately, held him back, turning around to see who it was. It was the Yuvraj. Veer Pratap Singh Rajawat. The eldest son of the Rajawat family. A heart surgeon. His eyes softened as he saw both of them standing near the door.

“Please come in.” He said, his voice soft. Rani almost ran to stand beside her father.

“I told you to take care, didn’t I? You never listen to me or Daadi or even Pinku. Why are you so stubborn? What would happen to us if something happened to you?” She ranted; her eyes lit with anger. Ramadheer smiled. His daughter was very protective of her loved ones. She was his life. The reason that he worked hard.

“Please keep your irritation at bay for the moment. He is still recovering from a heart attack; he needs rest for now. He has lost use of his legs at the moment.” Veer responded, getting irritated at this girl trying to rant at her father right when he is just recovering. Rani whipped her head to look at him straight in the eye, the irritation evident. Veer was a bit surprised. No one had ever looked at him straight in the eye apart from his family.

“Is asking someone’s father to take care themselves irritation? I think not Kunwar Sa. He is my father and he has to take care of himself, not for me, but for my brother. We are not financially strong: his earnings are the sole for our family. You are a heart surgeon yourself: could the signs of heart attack not be identified from before? He has been overworking himself from many years now. The stress has caused this.” She said firmly, before whipping her head back to her father.

“Take care now, I need to talk with the authorities about the billings. Pinku will stay here, I am going.” She said and before anyone could say anything, she left the cabin. Ramadheer looked at her in exasperation. ‘She shouldn’t have said that to Kunwar Sa’, he said to himself.

“Please don’t mind what she says Kunwar Sa. She is very protective of me, Amma and Pinku ever since my wife passed away.” He said, struggling to move his legs. Veer looked at him, his eyes softening again.

“Ramu Kaka, it is fine. Take care, I will come to see you tomorrow.” He smiled at Pinku, before leaving the cabin.

~~**~~

He went to the reception area to see the costs. It was a very expensive operation. Ramu Kaka handled the finances of the family. His honesty and integrity were something that Veer had always admired. To his utter surprise, his daughter had the same values, but added on, she also had a fiery streak to her nature. Quite impertinent. She was standing at the reception desk, looking at the file for costs. The shock was quite evident in her face. It was paling and she was about to collapse, when Veer managed to hold her.

“Steady. Are you okay?” He asked, making her sit at the seating area. She looked at him with incoherent eyes.

“How are we to pay this amount? It is 5 times the savings we have. And his medicines? They are so expensive. How are we to cover all this? Oh God, all the savings is at a low given Daadi’s deteriorating health, how are we going to make it?” She cried, putting her head into her hands. Veer sat beside her, looking on helpless. Truly, the cost was insane for a middle-class family. Ramu Kaka’s loyalty was not to be questioned. He had given 20 years to this family. ‘I need to talk to Papa and Daadi. They can convince Rani Sa.’ He thought to himself. Looking at the girl beside him, his heart went out to her.

“I will see what I can do now. I work in this hospital; I will try to postpone the day of his discharge so that you can at least have a few days…” He said, purposefully keeping his statement vague. She removed her hands from her face to look into his eyes. Veer for the first time realised that her eyes were a very different shade of brown. Hazel if he wasn’t wrong. ‘Damn it Veer! Stop staring at her!’ His brain screamed, and he looked away. Seriously, he had to stop himself. As he rose to leave for his duties, her words surprised him.

“Kunwar Sa, do you know somewhere I can get a job? I cannot go back to Bombay now. I need to support Bauji now.”

Veer looked at her, admiration filling him. This girl didn’t cry nor did she break down. Her first most priority was her family. He nodded. “Let me see what I can do about it.” She smiled weakly, and Veer left to do his duties, a weird feeling enveloping his heart.

~~**~~

Rajeshwari entered her bedroom, furious. How dare they go against her?! Her, the queen of Jaipur! Digvijay entered after her, trying to reason with her.

“Rajeshwari, calm down! We don’t need them to do our decorations. There are better wedding planners than them, we will get ones from UK or Europe, why are you wasting your time over them? Think about it!” He said, trying to cajole his furious wife. 29 years of togetherness had tuned him to his wife’s quite frequent outbursts. But he was proud of his wife. Proud of her achievements, proud that she was his guide.

Rajeshwari looked at her husband, her anger melting a bit. Digvijay was certainly good at calming her down, always giving her reasons that she could never refute. She silently looked at her husband, memorising his features in her mind. He was the only one she had given her heart to. Even though the day he confessed his mistake, and promised her that he would forever remain faithful, she had believed him. And he hadn’t broken that promise that he made 29 years ago. But the price of that mistake was Veer. That boy took on after his father a bit too much. It was a constant reminder of her husband’s unfaithfulness. Technically not unfaithfulness. They weren’t married when Veer was born. But born out of an affair nonetheless. However, right now was not the time to ponder upon the thoughts of the past. His words made sense. She was behaving a bit irrationally. Ankle-bells echoed through the corridor, as her daughter, Nandini, rushed into the room.

“Mom, Bhai just informed that he will be late to come home. The fittings need to be done tonight, what should I do?” she asked, tension in peak. Irritation surged through her again. What was wrong with this boy? He just had to show how benevolent he is. His profession itself irritated her. Who told him to choose to be a doctor? They had an entire empire that he could have run, but no. He had to choose a job where he, the crown prince of the royal family of Jaipur worked like common people. ‘Disgusting!’ She thought to herself, but made sure not to make her thoughts audible. She may not have accepted Veer as her own son, but her children had. He was their support system and go to person for every problem. She came last when it came to sorting their problems.

“It is fine. Call the designers early tomorrow, with whatever price they ask for. You can’t really help that he will be late.” She replied, her irritation visible. Nodding her head, Nandini left her parents to discuss.

~~**~~

Exhausted after a 5-hourlong surgery, Veer slumped into the living room couch. Dadi Sa came and caressed his hair - Veer closed his eyes.

“Everything okay today Beta?” She asked, her eyes full of warmth and love.

Veer just nodded, and then sprang up to his feet. Catching her hands, he kissed them.

“Don’t worry too much DadiSa. I am fine, it is just I had a long surgery today. Did you take your medicines?” He asked, smiling at his grandmother. She smiled and nodded. Taking the opportunity, he said, “Dadi Sa, Ramu Kaka has just had a huge operation for his heart. The price is humongous; could we help them financially? He has devoted 20 years of his life to our family. Shouldn’t we do something to help him and his family?” He asked, his eyes reflecting his genuine concern. Dadi Sa smiled, her heart swelling in pride. She was proud of her grandson. He had inherited her husband’s qualities. Strange really, given he was adopted. But he had excelled in all fields. Everything that was required for the future king ofJaipur.

“You are right Veer. Let me talk with Rajeshwari and see what we can do.”

Veer smiled and felt content. He could do something to help Ramu Kaka.

~~**~~

Hope you all liked it. Please comment if you all think it is good to continue.

Regards,

Titli

After yesterday’s butterfly kisses

We have Titli (butterfly) here

Fantastic FF

Loved DV-Rajeshwari part the most

Do continue it everyday

The ATBA writers have tough competition now

Originally posted by: TitliD

Hello All,

This is my first time writing on this forum. I am new to this forum, so please excuse any grammatical mistakes. Only the characters are the same. The plot is completely my own imagination.

Chapter 1;

Rani rushed into the hospital cabin, herbrother in tow. Her father, Ramadheer, lay in the bed in the middle, the machines around him beeping. Tears rushed to her eyes, and she bit her lips tocontrol herself. How could she cry right now? Her father, brother needed her tobe strong. The noise distracted him from the conversation he was having with the doctor beside him.

“Beta?” He said, trying to sit up. The doctor fortunately, held him back, turning around to see who it was. It was the Yuvraj. Veer Pratap Singh Rajawat. The eldest son of the Rajawat family. A heart surgeon. His eyes softened as he saw both of them standing near the door.

“Please come in.” He said, his voice soft. Rani almost ran to stand beside her father.

“I told you to take care, didn’t I? You never listen to me or Daadi or even Pinku. Why are you so stubborn? What would happen to us if something happened to you?” She ranted; her eyes lit with anger. Ramadheer smiled. His daughter was very protective of her loved ones. She was his life. The reason that he worked hard.

“Please keep your irritation at bay for the moment. He is still recovering from a heart attack; he needs rest for now. He has lost use of his legs at the moment.” Veer responded, getting irritated at this girl trying to rant at her father right when he is just recovering. Rani whipped her head to look at him straight in the eye, the irritation evident. Veer was a bit surprised. No one had ever looked at him straight in the eye apart from his family.

“Is asking someone’s father to take care themselves irritation? I think not Kunwar Sa. He is my father and he has to take care of himself, not for me, but for my brother. We are not financially strong: his earnings are the sole for our family. You are a heart surgeon yourself: could the signs of heart attack not be identified from before? He has been overworking himself from many years now. The stress has caused this.” She said firmly, before whipping her head back to her father.

“Take care now, I need to talk with the authorities about the billings. Pinku will stay here, I am going.” She said and before anyone could say anything, she left the cabin. Ramadheer looked at her in exasperation. ‘She shouldn’t have said that to Kunwar Sa’, he said to himself.

“Please don’t mind what she says Kunwar Sa. She is very protective of me, Amma and Pinku ever since my wife passed away.” He said, struggling to move his legs. Veer looked at him, his eyes softening again.

“Ramu Kaka, it is fine. Take care, I will come to see you tomorrow.” He smiled at Pinku, before leaving the cabin.

~~**~~

He went to the reception area to see the costs. It was a very expensive operation. Ramu Kaka handled the finances of the family. His honesty and integrity were something that Veer had always admired. To his utter surprise, his daughter had the same values, but added on, she also had a fiery streak to her nature. Quite impertinent. She was standing at the reception desk, looking at the file for costs. The shock was quite evident in her face. It was paling and she was about to collapse, when Veer managed to hold her.

“Steady. Are you okay?” He asked, making her sit at the seating area. She looked at him with incoherent eyes.

“How are we to pay this amount? It is 5 times the savings we have. And his medicines? They are so expensive. How are we to cover all this? Oh God, all the savings is at a low given Daadi’s deteriorating health, how are we going to make it?” She cried, putting her head into her hands. Veer sat beside her, looking on helpless. Truly, the cost was insane for a middle-class family. Ramu Kaka’s loyalty was not to be questioned. He had given 20 years to this family. ‘I need to talk to Papa and Daadi. They can convince Rani Sa.’ He thought to himself. Looking at the girl beside him, his heart went out to her.

“I will see what I can do now. I work in this hospital; I will try to postpone the day of his discharge so that you can at least have a few days…” He said, purposefully keeping his statement vague. She removed her hands from her face to look into his eyes. Veer for the first time realised that her eyes were a very different shade of brown. Hazel if he wasn’t wrong. ‘Damn it Veer! Stop staring at her!’ His brain screamed, and he looked away. Seriously, he had to stop himself. As he rose to leave for his duties, her words surprised him.

“Kunwar Sa, do you know somewhere I can get a job? I cannot go back to Bombay now. I need to support Bauji now.”

Veer looked at her, admiration filling him. This girl didn’t cry nor did she break down. Her first most priority was her family. He nodded. “Let me see what I can do about it.” She smiled weakly, and Veer left to do his duties, a weird feeling enveloping his heart.

~~**~~

Rajeshwari entered her bedroom, furious. How dare they go against her?! Her, the queen of Jaipur! Digvijay entered after her, trying to reason with her.

“Rajeshwari, calm down! We don’t need them to do our decorations. There are better wedding planners than them, we will get ones from UK or Europe, why are you wasting your time over them? Think about it!” He said, trying to cajole his furious wife. 29 years of togetherness had tuned him to his wife’s quite frequent outbursts. But he was proud of his wife. Proud of her achievements, proud that she was his guide.

Rajeshwari looked at her husband, her anger melting a bit. Digvijay was certainly good at calming her down, always giving her reasons that she could never refute. She silently looked at her husband, memorising his features in her mind. He was the only one she had given her heart to. Even though the day he confessed his mistake, and promised her that he would forever remain faithful, she had believed him. And he hadn’t broken that promise that he made 29 years ago. But the price of that mistake was Veer. That boy took on after his father a bit too much. It was a constant reminder of her husband’s unfaithfulness. Technically not unfaithfulness. They weren’t married when Veer was born. But born out of an affair nonetheless. However, right now was not the time to ponder upon the thoughts of the past. His words made sense. She was behaving a bit irrationally. Ankle-bells echoed through the corridor, as her daughter, Nandini, rushed into the room.

“Mom, Bhai just informed that he will be late to come home. The fittings need to be done tonight, what should I do?” she asked, tension in peak. Irritation surged through her again. What was wrong with this boy? He just had to show how benevolent he is. His profession itself irritated her. Who told him to choose to be a doctor? They had an entire empire that he could have run, but no. He had to choose a job where he, the crown prince of the royal family of Jaipur worked like common people. ‘Disgusting!’ She thought to herself, but made sure not to make her thoughts audible. She may not have accepted Veer as her own son, but her children had. He was their support system and go to person for every problem. She came last when it came to sorting their problems.

“It is fine. Call the designers early tomorrow, with whatever price they ask for. You can’t really help that he will be late.” She replied, her irritation visible. Nodding her head, Nandini left her parents to discuss.

~~**~~

Exhausted after a 5-hourlong surgery, Veer slumped into the living room couch. Dadi Sa came and caressed his hair - Veer closed his eyes.

“Everything okay today Beta?” She asked, her eyes full of warmth and love.

Veer just nodded, and then sprang up to his feet. Catching her hands, he kissed them.

“Don’t worry too much DadiSa. I am fine, it is just I had a long surgery today. Did you take your medicines?” He asked, smiling at his grandmother. She smiled and nodded. Taking the opportunity, he said, “Dadi Sa, Ramu Kaka has just had a huge operation for his heart. The price is humongous; could we help them financially? He has devoted 20 years of his life to our family. Shouldn’t we do something to help him and his family?” He asked, his eyes reflecting his genuine concern. Dadi Sa smiled, her heart swelling in pride. She was proud of her grandson. He had inherited her husband’s qualities. Strange really, given he was adopted. But he had excelled in all fields. Everything that was required for the future king ofJaipur.

“You are right Veer. Let me talk with Rajeshwari and see what we can do.”

Veer smiled and felt content. He could do something to help Ramu Kaka.

~~**~~

Hope you all liked it. Please comment if you all think it is good to continue.

Regards,

Titli

Hello All,

I am back with the second chapter. Excuse any grammatical or spelling mistakes.

Chapter 2:

Rani sat down on the bed, her eyes pricking. She had to leave her everything in Bombay. Her friends, her family, her education, her career. Now she had to leave her place in the most prestigious university in the whole of India. The mere thought was shattering her heart into pieces. Why did she have to make this difficult choice? ‘Why Mahadev, why are you making me make this heart wrenching choice?’ She asked Mahadev, her sole listener. A rich, unknown industrialist had promised to fund her and Pinku’s education, given their grades. The money was transferred to Bauji’s bank account every January. She didn’t know who it was and neither did her Bauji tell her. But now, she had to use that money for her Bauji’s treatment. She was not going to allow Pinku to leave his education. She took her third-year results certificate, and let her tears escape. She had topped her class. Three years in a row. Her own name, Ragini Singh Gaikwad, stared into her face. But there was no place for that name. She had been on the news for her results; it would create unnecessary drama here. People might think she was using it to gain sympathy. Her nickname, Rani, would suffice.

“Didiiiii!” Pinku’s loud voice broke the trance she was in. Wiping her tears, she put her certificate in to the folder. He rushed into the room; his face irate. Rani realised he had found out about her decision.

“What happened Pinku? Why are you screaming?” She asked calmly, masking her turmoil with a poker face.

“You of all people are asking me why I am screaming?! Why are you sacrificing your education for Bauji?! There can be other ways to arrange the money. We can take loans, why are you being so self-sacrificing?” He shouted; his disbelief evident. He couldn’t let his sister sacrifice the dream she had been pursuing. It was unfair.

“One needs to have a job in order to apply for a loan. Has all common sense evaporated from your brain? And one can restart their education at a later stage. I have already completed 3 years. A setback of 1 or 2 years is not a big deal. Now stop shouting and bringing the house down. And keep your emotions under control. We will be kicked out of the lodgings by the amount of noise you’re making.” She said, allowing her irritation to show.

“We need to go early to meet Bauji tomorrow. Wake up early and get ready in time. I need to go out and start looking for work. One more thing. Your education is even more important now. You need to give your education more importance than ever. And I need you to go back to Bombay, in a month’s time, to take care of Dadi. That is my final decision. No arguments about it.” She added, before walking out to calm her mind and to accept her own decision wholly.

~~**~~

Veer stood on the balcony, thinking about his future. His engagement with Kiara was in a week’s time, and his heart was still not consenting to it. It was an impulse decision that he made 3 months ago, just to bring a smile on the face of the woman whom he treasured more than anything in the world. His mother, Rani Sa. Could God have created a better woman than her? Beautiful, strong, independent, educated and most important of all, caring. Maybe not towards him. But towards the rest of the family. His heart however, was screaming something else. He didn’t love Kiara. Neither could he force himself to make him even like her in the light that life partners are supposed to like each other. Kiara on the other hand had left no stone unturned to tell him how much she likes him. It genuinely scared him so much thinking that he didn’t even feel a fraction of what she felt. Staring up to sky, to supposedly where the Gods resided, he could only think of one thing. “Please help me to make sure I can be the best husband Kiara deserves. She deserves a caring husband, regardless of whether I feel anything for her or not.”

“Bro, missing me?” A voice came from behind. Veer smiled; it could only belong to one person. Turning around, he saw Vikram sauntering into his room, the biggest smile stuck to his face. Veer smiled himself. His brother could always remain cheerful. He came and engulfed him in the biggest bear hug. He reciprocated accordingly. Stepping back, he cheekily added, “Thinking about Kiara Bro?” He smirked, enjoying the glare that followed. Veer sighed in irritation.

“Can you seriously stop pulling my leg for once? Do you think I am a romantic hero who always thinks about the girl he is supposed to marry? Jeez Vikram, could you genuinely talk about something else?” Veer replied, his voiced laced with exasperation. Vikram took that exasperation as a sign of his tiredness, and let the topic go.

“How is Ramu Kaka, Bhai? How was the operation?” He asked, his voice turning serious. Both the brothers were extremely fond of Ramu Kaka. He was a gem of a person and helped both of them out when they were in trouble at home.

“The operation was successful, but he is very weak. He has many pre-existing comorbidities, which is going to delay his full recovery. And, there are chances of a brain stroke, given he has such high blood pressure, and he is in such stress due to his dwindling finances. I don’t know if he will make it or not.” Veer answered truthfully, his own heart heavy. He didn’t have confidence that Ramu Kaka was going to able to make it. Vikram stared him, shock quite evident.

“His finances are dwindling? But how? He has been working for us for so long, how can his finances be low?” Vikram asked.

Veer shook his head. Vikram was naïve at times. “He has two grown up kids, and a mother whose health is also deteriorating. Do you think that the pay he gets is sufficient to coverall these costs?” He asked, his anger quite visible. The pay to staff, especially a man like Ramu Kaka, who had been working in this family for so long was unacceptably low. He had tried on many occasions to somehow increase the pay for all, but Rani Sa was adamant that that there was no requirement. He was helpless. Vikram had also lapsed into thoughtful silence, as they took in the problems of the people that were not financially strong.

~~**~~

Rajeshwari was sipping her routine morning green tea as Rajmata filled her and Digvijay on the proposition that Veer had told her about. Irritation was slowly creeping through her body, but she made sure that it was not visible. Digvijay was enthusiastically nodding his head, and she knew she couldn’t refuse. She might have the last say on the matters of the family, but she couldn’t refuse the will of her mother-in-law and her husband. But she wasn’t going to make it easy. She was Rajeshwari Singh Rajawat, the queen of the royal family of Jaipur. Getting her favour was a rare occasion.

“I think Veer’s suggestion was good. What do you think, Digvijay and Rajeshwari?” Rajmata asked, her face hopeful that at least this would be agreed by Rajeshwari.

“Maa Sa, I think Veer is right. What do you think Rajeshwari?” Digvijay asked, turning to his wife.

“I want to talk to his daughter. I have things to discuss with her.” She replied monotonously, not giving anything about her decision. Digvijay nodded, finding logic in her answer. As he was about to reply, Veer came down the stairs, his face stoic. Her son, Vikram, came beside him, talking about something animatedly. Rajmata noticing both her grandsons, beckoned them to the sitting area.

“Rajeshwari wants to talk to Ramadheer’s daughter. Could you please tell her to meet in regards to Ramadheer’s operation today evening?” Rajmata informed Veer. His face remained stoic, but his eyes lit up in hope. Nodding, he left for hospital and Vikram left for university.

Rajeshwari also stood up and citing business reasons, left for office.

~~**~~

Rani was feeding Bauji when Kunwar Sa came into the room. She stood up, as he came and started doing his usual check-up. Rani was still hurting to say anything. She still hadn’t told Bauji of her decision and was still formulating the right words to make him understand. As he was about to leave, Kunwar Sa turned to look at her.

“Could you please come outside for a minute? I have something to speak to you about.” Rani’s heart quickened its pace. What did the Yuraj have to say to her? She turned to her father for approval. He just nodded his head, and Rani left the room, her heart thumping in trepidation. As they left the room, Veer cleared his throat. Rani snapped from her trance, and looked at him.

“I have talked to my family about funding part of Ramu Kaka’s operation. My mother wants to talk to you about the finances. Would you be able to come in the evening today?” Veer spoke, keeping his voice low. Rani’s heart soared. “They were willing to bear some of the expenses? Mahadev thank you, I could not ask anything more.” She thought to herself.

“Thank you very much Kunwar Sa, I mean… Dr Rajawat. What is the address? I will reach there by 7.30pm. Is that okay?” She asked, her heart rejoicing. Veer nodded, before writing down the address and giving it to her.

~~**~~

Veer was pacing his room, anticipating a call from Dadi Sa to go downstairs. He didn’t want Rani Sa to think that the girl was too arrogant, or too showy; it would ruin the chances to fund the operation.

“Veer! Please come down!”Dadi Sa’s voice floated from downstairs, amplified by the staircase. He walked diligently downstairs, to see the girl standing near the main door, surprisingly, not scared nor nervous.

“What is your name?” Rani Sa asked, her voice firm and condescending. Veer sighed inside, not quite appreciating the tone she was using.

“Rani Singh, Rani Sa.” She replied, her eyes fixated to his mother’s eyes. He looked at Vikram at his left, who was evidently quite impressed by her. Shuffling to his side, he whispered, “Whoah Bro, she looks at everyone straight in the eye. Quite some confidence, I must say. Everyone who usually looks at Mom, they usually are scared of her. She is not.”

Veer just nodded his head, thinking it was not wise timing to tell him about her previous such show of ‘confidence’ as Vikram just put.

“I have agreed to Veer’s proposition of funding half of the operation fees. However, I have a condition.” Rajeshwari said, making Veer and Vikram look at each other in surprise. Condition?

“You need to work as our house staff for at least 4 months to cover the costs that we are paying. Do you agree?” Rani Sa said, and Veer felt like someone just poured cold water over it. Why did she have to put a condition over everything? Rani’s face however, remained impassive.

“Rani Sa, I am literate, is there any other work that I could do…” She started, only to be cut off by Rani Sa.

“I know that. But if you want us to fund your Bauji’s operation, you need to follow what I just said. Otherwise, there will be no funding. Am I clear? Now tell me, are you interested or not?” Rani Sa spoke monotonously, and Veer realised that it was just a ploy to insult Ramu Kaka’s contribution even further.

“Yes, Rani Sa. I am interested, thank you very much for generosity.” She replied but Veer was unsure if she meant that as a compliment or an insult. Rani Sa however, took it as a compliment and nodded.

“Rani Sa, would I able to join from tomorrow? I need to pack my belongings, and inform my brother. I will be here at 7am sharp tomorrow.” Rani said, and Rani Sa nodded.

Rani took that as a cue to leave. Before leaving however, she folded her hands to a namaste.

Veer felt guilt piercing his heart. This was not correct.

~~**~~

Hope you all liked it. Please like and comment to tell me how it was. It would be much appreciated.

Regards,

Titli

Titli just loved it

On finances had done one similar as a general thought process of Prince Veer

Originally posted by: TitliD

Hello All,

I am back with the second chapter. Excuse any grammatical or spelling mistakes.

Chapter 2:

Rani sat down on the bed, her eyes pricking. She had to leave her everything in Bombay. Her friends, her family, her education, her career. Now she had to leave her place in the most prestigious university in the whole of India. The mere thought was shattering her heart into pieces. Why did she have to make this difficult choice? ‘Why Mahadev, why are you making me make this heart wrenching choice?’ She asked Mahadev, her sole listener. A rich, unknown industrialist had promised to fund her and Pinku’s education, given their grades. The money was transferred to Bauji’s bank account every January. She didn’t know who it was and neither did her Bauji tell her. But now, she had to use that money for her Bauji’s treatment. She was not going to allow Pinku to leave his education. She took her third-year results certificate, and let her tears escape. She had topped her class. Three years in a row. Her own name, Ragini Singh Gaikwad, stared into her face. But there was no place for that name. She had been on the news for her results; it would create unnecessary drama here. People might think she was using it to gain sympathy. Her nickname, Rani, would suffice.

“Didiiiii!” Pinku’s loud voice broke the trance she was in. Wiping her tears, she put her certificate in to the folder. He rushed into the room; his face irate. Rani realised he had found out about her decision.

“What happened Pinku? Why are you screaming?” She asked calmly, masking her turmoil with a poker face.

“You of all people are asking me why I am screaming?! Why are you sacrificing your education for Bauji?! There can be other ways to arrange the money. We can take loans, why are you being so self-sacrificing?” He shouted; his disbelief evident. He couldn’t let his sister sacrifice the dream she had been pursuing. It was unfair.

“One needs to have a job in order to apply for a loan. Has all common sense evaporated from your brain? And one can restart their education at a later stage. I have already completed 3 years. A setback of 1 or 2 years is not a big deal. Now stop shouting and bringing the house down. And keep your emotions under control. We will be kicked out of the lodgings by the amount of noise you’re making.” She said, allowing her irritation to show.

“We need to go early to meet Bauji tomorrow. Wake up early and get ready in time. I need to go out and start looking for work. One more thing. Your education is even more important now. You need to give your education more importance than ever. And I need you to go back to Bombay, in a month’s time, to take care of Dadi. That is my final decision. No arguments about it.” She added, before walking out to calm her mind and to accept her own decision wholly.

~~**~~

Veer stood on the balcony, thinking about his future. His engagement with Kiara was in a week’s time, and his heart was still not consenting to it. It was an impulse decision that he made 3 months ago, just to bring a smile on the face of the woman whom he treasured more than anything in the world. His mother, Rani Sa. Could God have created a better woman than her? Beautiful, strong, independent, educated and most important of all, caring. Maybe not towards him. But towards the rest of the family. His heart however, was screaming something else. He didn’t love Kiara. Neither could he force himself to make him even like her in the light that life partners are supposed to like each other. Kiara on the other hand had left no stone unturned to tell him how much she likes him. It genuinely scared him so much thinking that he didn’t even feel a fraction of what she felt. Staring up to sky, to supposedly where the Gods resided, he could only think of one thing. “Please help me to make sure I can be the best husband Kiara deserves. She deserves a caring husband, regardless of whether I feel anything for her or not.”

“Bro, missing me?” A voice came from behind. Veer smiled; it could only belong to one person. Turning around, he saw Vikram sauntering into his room, the biggest smile stuck to his face. Veer smiled himself. His brother could always remain cheerful. He came and engulfed him in the biggest bear hug. He reciprocated accordingly. Stepping back, he cheekily added, “Thinking about Kiara Bro?” He smirked, enjoying the glare that followed. Veer sighed in irritation.

“Can you seriously stop pulling my leg for once? Do you think I am a romantic hero who always thinks about the girl he is supposed to marry? Jeez Vikram, could you genuinely talk about something else?” Veer replied, his voiced laced with exasperation. Vikram took that exasperation as a sign of his tiredness, and let the topic go.

“How is Ramu Kaka, Bhai? How was the operation?” He asked, his voice turning serious. Both the brothers were extremely fond of Ramu Kaka. He was a gem of a person and helped both of them out when they were in trouble at home.

“The operation was successful, but he is very weak. He has many pre-existing comorbidities, which is going to delay his full recovery. And, there are chances of a brain stroke, given he has such high blood pressure, and he is in such stress due to his dwindling finances. I don’t know if he will make it or not.” Veer answered truthfully, his own heart heavy. He didn’t have confidence that Ramu Kaka was going to able to make it. Vikram stared him, shock quite evident.

“His finances are dwindling? But how? He has been working for us for so long, how can his finances be low?” Vikram asked.

Veer shook his head. Vikram was naïve at times. “He has two grown up kids, and a mother whose health is also deteriorating. Do you think that the pay he gets is sufficient to coverall these costs?” He asked, his anger quite visible. The pay to staff, especially a man like Ramu Kaka, who had been working in this family for so long was unacceptably low. He had tried on many occasions to somehow increase the pay for all, but Rani Sa was adamant that that there was no requirement. He was helpless. Vikram had also lapsed into thoughtful silence, as they took in the problems of the people that were not financially strong.

~~**~~

Rajeshwari was sipping her routine morning green tea as Rajmata filled her and Digvijay on the proposition that Veer had told her about. Irritation was slowly creeping through her body, but she made sure that it was not visible. Digvijay was enthusiastically nodding his head, and she knew she couldn’t refuse. She might have the last say on the matters of the family, but she couldn’t refuse the will of her mother-in-law and her husband. But she wasn’t going to make it easy. She was Rajeshwari Singh Rajawat, the queen of the royal family of Jaipur. Getting her favour was a rare occasion.

“I think Veer’s suggestion was good. What do you think, Digvijay and Rajeshwari?” Rajmata asked, her face hopeful that at least this would be agreed by Rajeshwari.

“Maa Sa, I think Veer is right. What do you think Rajeshwari?” Digvijay asked, turning to his wife.

“I want to talk to his daughter. I have things to discuss with her.” She replied monotonously, not giving anything about her decision. Digvijay nodded, finding logic in her answer. As he was about to reply, Veer came down the stairs, his face stoic. Her son, Vikram, came beside him, talking about something animatedly. Rajmata noticing both her grandsons, beckoned them to the sitting area.

“Rajeshwari wants to talk to Ramadheer’s daughter. Could you please tell her to meet in regards to Ramadheer’s operation today evening?” Rajmata informed Veer. His face remained stoic, but his eyes lit up in hope. Nodding, he left for hospital and Vikram left for university.

Rajeshwari also stood up and citing business reasons, left for office.

~~**~~

Rani was feeding Bauji when Kunwar Sa came into the room. She stood up, as he came and started doing his usual check-up. Rani was still hurting to say anything. She still hadn’t told Bauji of her decision and was still formulating the right words to make him understand. As he was about to leave, Kunwar Sa turned to look at her.

“Could you please come outside for a minute? I have something to speak to you about.” Rani’s heart quickened its pace. What did the Yuraj have to say to her? She turned to her father for approval. He just nodded his head, and Rani left the room, her heart thumping in trepidation. As they left the room, Veer cleared his throat. Rani snapped from her trance, and looked at him.

“I have talked to my family about funding part of Ramu Kaka’s operation. My mother wants to talk to you about the finances. Would you be able to come in the evening today?” Veer spoke, keeping his voice low. Rani’s heart soared. “They were willing to bear some of the expenses? Mahadev thank you, I could not ask anything more.” She thought to herself.

“Thank you very much Kunwar Sa, I mean… Dr Rajawat. What is the address? I will reach there by 7.30pm. Is that okay?” She asked, her heart rejoicing. Veer nodded, before writing down the address and giving it to her.

~~**~~

Veer was pacing his room, anticipating a call from Dadi Sa to go downstairs. He didn’t want Rani Sa to think that the girl was too arrogant, or too showy; it would ruin the chances to fund the operation.

“Veer! Please come down!”Dadi Sa’s voice floated from downstairs, amplified by the staircase. He walked diligently downstairs, to see the girl standing near the main door, surprisingly, not scared nor nervous.

“What is your name?” Rani Sa asked, her voice firm and condescending. Veer sighed inside, not quite appreciating the tone she was using.

“Rani Singh, Rani Sa.” She replied, her eyes fixated to his mother’s eyes. He looked at Vikram at his left, who was evidently quite impressed by her. Shuffling to his side, he whispered, “Whoah Bro, she looks at everyone straight in the eye. Quite some confidence, I must say. Everyone who usually looks at Mom, they usually are scared of her. She is not.”

Veer just nodded his head, thinking it was not wise timing to tell him about her previous such show of ‘confidence’ as Vikram just put.

“I have agreed to Veer’s proposition of funding half of the operation fees. However, I have a condition.” Rajeshwari said, making Veer and Vikram look at each other in surprise. Condition?

“You need to work as our house staff for at least 4 months to cover the costs that we are paying. Do you agree?” Rani Sa said, and Veer felt like someone just poured cold water over it. Why did she have to put a condition over everything? Rani’s face however, remained impassive.

“Rani Sa, I am literate, is there any other work that I could do…” She started, only to be cut off by Rani Sa.

“I know that. But if you want us to fund your Bauji’s operation, you need to follow what I just said. Otherwise, there will be no funding. Am I clear? Now tell me, are you interested or not?” Rani Sa spoke monotonously, and Veer realised that it was just a ploy to insult Ramu Kaka’s contribution even further.

“Yes, Rani Sa. I am interested, thank you very much for generosity.” She replied but Veer was unsure if she meant that as a compliment or an insult. Rani Sa however, took it as a compliment and nodded.

“Rani Sa, would I able to join from tomorrow? I need to pack my belongings, and inform my brother. I will be here at 7am sharp tomorrow.” Rani said, and Rani Sa nodded.

Rani took that as a cue to leave. Before leaving however, she folded her hands to a namaste.

Veer felt guilt piercing his heart. This was not correct.

~~**~~

Hope you all liked it. Please like and comment to tell me how it was. It would be much appreciated.

Regards,

Titli