FF - If Only I Could (Updt 24-35) Pg 16-18 - Page 11

Chapter 24

Whilst driving home, he thought of how her mother waited on him, treating him with utmost respect mingled with genuine affection. Nandini too who discussed about her work and things like as if she had known him all her life. Despite just a few hours...yet he had felt so much at home...and cared for...something he never found in his own step-mother.

He noticed the closeness as a family, Their love for each other very vocal, the bonding between them...their warmth and togetherness...even during their moments of sadness and anxiety over Bunty...they shared their pain openly. They had huddled together and cried over Bunty regardless of his presence and he had to console all the three women...though Tara seemed to be who recovered right away and ended up supporting them.

On reaching the mansion, he went straight to the stable to Marya. The mare would keep him company. He just did not feel like stepping into the Villa.

Tara and Nandini chatted for a while and then Tara went to her mother's room. They had talked and talked...and Ardhana realized that her little girl had grown up so much...hiding things from her...especially about him...she kept mentioning him...and there was a sense of awe when she did ...but a kind of sadness. The girl wasn't telling it all.

Tara tossed and turned and got up in the middle of the night, tiptoed outside her mother's room and went outside and sat on the bench. Looked up at the moonlit sky... It felt good to be back home and in her mother's comforting arms...but there was something amiss...with a heavy heart she sighed...feeling miserable...she remembered the previous night, he was with her the whole time, she had gone into his arms just like it was the most natural thing to do for her...it was a sense of belonging there, he had called her BABY...but him?...he was probably just being nice to her considering the situation. The words she had blurted out... Feeling miserable and low...she realized...the whole marriage was surely a big mistake. Had she not married, Bunty would have been with them now. Apart from a roof over their heads, nothing good came out of this marriage, and then now Bunty miles away from home and injured, let alone her own mess.

Could it have gotten worse than this, she sighed maybe...or maybe not. He had taken care of her last night...but why did she feel she was hoping for a lot more from a man who could never ever be hers. Her feelings would always always be one sided. He could never reciprocate the way she wanted ever!

What were her feelings she questioned herself, she was missing his presence already...but why...how could she have loved a Man who would never love a woman let alone her. She shut her eyes and said to herself, "Why did you make me fall in love with you Mrityunjay...why...when I know you will never come to love me." Tears streaming down her pale cheeks she thought ...

Good she had signed the divorce papers despite Baba requesting her to give it some more thought and time. There was nothing to think...neither did she want any claims as his wife later nor an empty marriage. But strangely, she had never seen any signs of that weirdness...oh forget it...he did not have to behave in a certain way to know what he did in private and she never was judgmental . Even if he did like women, why would he bother with someone like her? She wasn't his type, a girl from the galli of Bhopal.

She wiped away her tears clutched the shawl around her and went back to bed only for her Mother to ask, "Tara kya hua neend nahi aa rahi hai tumhe? " "Maa mein paani lene gayi thee so jao re Maa." She turns to her side and wept silently...a broken heart and a wet pillow was all that she held onto that night...

They were all at the breakfast table, when her phone rang only to find that it was Mrityunjay calling. Why did he not leave her in peace? What did he want now? Frowning she answered the call, "Boliye?"

That melodious soft voice, he spoke, "Good Morning"...then silence, he so wished to tell her he missed her badly but instead asked, "You okay? How is Maaji and Nandu? Did you all manage to speak to Bunty and chat with him?"

Nandini winked at Tara. "Jiju subha subha...hmmm...missing you already?"

"Yes we did, he looked fine...head bandaged, and the left arm and leg in a cast.

"How is Baba, Vasu and all?"

Why don't you ask about me Tara but replied instead, "Baba is fine, Vasu was upset with you gone," so am I "Do you need anything, let me know"

His divine velvety voice was enough for her to go all warm, "Sure I will, I got to go and help Mum..thanks for calling...I will call Vasu later...bye."

She disconnected the call, feeling all the more miserable...why oh why...she kept herself busy by going along with her mother to the market place, meeting some old neighbors and friends. And all remarked, "Tara why are you so quiet, marriage has really changed you from a Jhalli to a woman." She was either irritated with their remarks or it just hurt her more to see them chide her on her hollow married life. No more trips to the market place, she would simply stay at home.

The very long day passed by. Aradhana noticed her brooding most of the time...what was wrong...why wasn't she opening up...Tara never hid things from her...she could tell, this was not her baccha...who ran around, troubled everyone...pulled a leg or smacked someone there...

Tara even called up Vasu and Meethi and spoke to them that she would be back after a week. She was loving it at her Mother's place...she was having fun with Nandini and her old friends whom she had not even connected with. She felt all the more low lying to them...

Mrityunjay did not go back home and stayed at the stable. Baba had called him asking him why he did not come home for the meals and he excused himself lying that Marya was ill and he had to be there at her side.

Every evening he would watch the sun go down and watch it rise again the next day...three nights and two sunrises...

Chapter 25

Tara...lay in bed..the third morning...feeling low and depressed...did not want to wake up...Nandini came and troubled her but it just irritated her and she ending up snapping at her. Her mother noticed she went to her and asked, "Kya hua Tara tabyat theek toh hai?" It was 11 am and the girl was still in bed. This is so not like her.

Suddenly Tara got up from the bed and announced, "Ma mein ghar wapas jaa rahi hunn."

"Ghar?"

"Maa mere dance ke classes hai, meine aap ko kal bataya tha." and she lied that they would then not be available for her when she wanted so had to go.

"Achha theek hai, Tara joh teri marzi...pata hai abb tera mann idhar nahi lag raha hai."

She avoided looking at her mother whilst hurriedly getting ready and grabbing something to eat. She felt lost her, she had to go back...who knows how many more days she would get to be around him, every moment with him was precious...she would treasure them...

Called a taxi and reached the Shekhwat Mansion by afternoon. The house was empty apart from Meethi and Faheem Chacha. She hugged Meethi who wondered why she was back so soon, when she planned to stay for a week!

She faked it saying, her mother scolded her to return back with the usual married woman stuff. Meethi bought the answer...

Tara was rushing back into her room when she met Fahim Chacha. "Are Tara bitiya wapas ghar aayi? chalo achha hua."

At the stable Mrityunjay was busy preparing his afternoon meal when the phone rings, "Bolo Faheem Chacha."

"Tara Beti ghar wapas aayi hai!"

"Kya!...lekin woh..." his heart jumped with joy...she was back home...but how come? She was supposed to stay for a week or more!

He paced the stable should he go or not back home. No he would not...it would be too obvious...

Finishing lunch he got hold of a book to read..after flipping through just one page...he dumped it...nothing held his interest...

He buttoned up his shirt and rushed back to the house...his eyes searched for her everywhere...he did not want to make it obvious...so acted normal and went up to his room.Just as he was entering in he heard her voice, his heart skipped a beat, "Here this is yours"

Acting as if he did not hear, he ignored and walked in so this ensured she had to follow him inside.

She followed him, "Your...your laptop!"

He missed those big brown eyes, that lock of hair that framed her face, her tiny little frame, "What are you doing here so soon? I thought you said you would be away for a week?"

Just the sight of him filled her with warmth...she had missed him so badly...oh gosh no, why must she explain to him, fine, so lied, and avoided looking into his eyes for fear of giving too much away of herself "I could not miss too much of the dance classes so returned...here is your laptop, placing it on the side table.

"How did you come back home? Who asked you to get the laptop back, it was for your mum so that she could see and talk to Bunty."

Here she was pinning for him and rather than being glad she had returned he was all out to bash her so with her nose up in the air she answered, "It's not needed, mum can't handle these things and she prefers to talk on the phone."

"Take it back to your room then."

"But why I do not need anything from you."

This girl is as stubborn as a mule, "Aren't you being selfish now, have you thought that the boy alone there might want to see and talk to you?"

He had to say it so went on, "One more thing, now listen carefully."

She frowned, "What now?"

"Whether you or I like it or not, we are married to each other, you understand that." She nodded, he continued, "So until such time, one - we can surely try to be civil to each other Tara, and two why do you object to everything I do or say? I asked you to call for the driver, you take a rickshaw and come home, and now this laptop."

She sighed, and look at the floor, and then at him, "Okay so can you fix it in my room and connect it for me? I mean Please...I ...I am just not good with gadgets, at home Nandini handled it?"

He looked at her lovingly, now she was talking, "Sure...come."

He picked up the laptop and together they went and he got by connecting it for her while she looked on.

"Can I get you a cup of coffee?"she asked it was better than just hovering around him...his presence made the room feel tiny.

He stared at her, a look that said I would love to, "yeah sure." Whilst she was gone he looked around the room and his eyes fell on the picture at her bedside. It was a shot on her haldi day. Adorned with flowers as jewelry, face smeared in haldi, her sister and mother at her side and her eyes squinting and tongue out. He got up and picked it up, she looked adorable, full of laughter and then the wedding must have been a nightmare. They might be the first couple to marry under such a harsh situation. In prison! He placed it down and quickly rushed back to his seat to connect the net for her.

Tara was a strong woman, had it been someone else they would have cowed down to this whole farce. Her mother was right she was a pillar of strength for them. They were two of a kind in some way.

She entered and offered him his coffee. He took the cup from her placing his hand over hers,...She pulled out her hand immediately from his grasp.

"Come sit...let me explain."

She sat in front of the laptop screen, he bent over her and explained. She could feel his breath over her neck and the whiff of his heady sweat. He could feel her breathing heavily, the discomfort in her from his closeness. She hardly looked at him...afraid he would see it in her eyes and he too avoided for fear of giving away his feelings. But he took advantage of the situation, brushing his hand against her shoulder, placing his hand over hers when it was on the mouse. Standing and leaning against the wall whilst she spoke to Bunty. She dreaded his presence. What for him, she was flustered with his moves...it did not affect him..she frowned...

She spoke to Bunty, who then informed her that he would be discharged in a day or two and he would be staying at Vijay Bhai's place. Also that he spoke to his University and would taking his lectures vide video-conferencing . How cool was that?"

She asked again, "Dont you want to come back and study here Bunty?"

"Oh no Faltu, no ways...no matter what happens...I am not coming back until I graduate."

She sighed...spoke some more and then disconnected the call...

He was about to leave when she spoke up again, "thanks for everything and the arrangements, it is more than anyone can ask for."

Ok so he would now make a deal, hoping she would agree, still leaning against the wall, with folded arms he asked, "Your welcome but would you mind doing something for me?"

Now what did he want, she knew he would make her pay in some way or the other.

She heaved and asked with a bit of anger in her eyes, "What is it?"

"Would you sit for me?"

"Sit for you? meaning?"

"I'd like to sketch you, paint you, click some pictures of you for that."

Her eyes went wide and her voice shrill, "What do mean? you want me to pose without clothes for you? How can you even ask?" She felt sick if that is what he thought of her.

He laughed and rubbed his forehead with a twinkle in his eye he said, "When did I say that? who said about without clothes?" But he suppressed his laughter though inside he couldn't help but think ...she did put the wildest thoughts in his head now.

She was embarrassed, oh shoots why did she open her mouth before knowing facts?

She went around her room sorting stuff out and asked without looking, "But...but why me at all?"

He wanted to blurt out that she was his perfect muse, that child-like quality yet so womanly...that bold raw look at times in her eyes when she was mad and the twinkling in her eyes when she was happy...

He sighed, "First thing you should know I am an artist and always wanted to paint a dancer. Now to my luck I happen to find one right in this house hence why not you? and I don't have much time...just my last wish you could say."

How could she refuse when he spoke that way! Her heart sank... he sure was good at blackmail. And a feeling of excitement filled her.."Fine when and how many days would it take..and where?"

"Maybe a couple of days...in some dancing poses...under the gazebo...or in the meadows near the stable or my room! Will tell you what to wear...and where." His eyes lit up whilst talking. He seem very happy and excited about the whole thing.

"No...I'll decide what to wear...that is if you trust me." He looked at her intently..."yeah I do."

"Good...then leave it up to me...if you don't like something, I can always change."

Overjoyed he replied, "Thanks Tara...I really mean it...and you might need a music system for some dance moves because I want to capture you when you dance not just pose. Hope you get it."

She replied, "yes I get it."

He then said, "I'll leave you to do your stuff," and left the room.

Wish he knew she was being selfish and wanted to spend whatever little time she could with him...this was more for her own self than him...she sighed slumped herself on the bed, holding an outfit tears flowing down...and then thought...no...no more tears...she would live each day as it comes...she had bashed him the other day and here she was fretting herself over life being unfair.

Pulling herself together she dug into her wardrobe looking for what to wear. She pulled out a few outfits...and then her eyes twinkled...yes why not... she would make the most of the situation...yes she would get her mom to deliver her dancing attire and stuff!

to be contd/...

Chapter 26

Baba was glad to see her back and so was Vasu. Vasu came into her room to update her about the Pari Mission campaign...and how things were going, and then she noticed the picture of Bunty as her screen saver on her laptop.

"Who is this cute guy?...love his eyes"

Now Tara wanted to have some fun. "Guess Pari guess...who do you think it is!" and winked at her.

"Now don't tell me Tara you liked him at school."

Tara laughed at the girl..."Achha you love his eyes...that's Bunty my little brother."

Vasu now embarrassed, "Nahi nahi...I am sorry...but he is cute honestly."

Tara now all happy to show off about her brother told her about the accident and his studies and then how Mrityunjay had gone out of his way to help them out.

She put on her laptop and went on to chat. Bunty came online...she introduced Vasu to him.

Bunty openly asked, "Faltu who is this cute little chick with you?"

Tara scolded him and warned that she was her sister-in-law and Mrityunjay's little sister. They seem to be two teens busy chatting and talking about their studies and stuff...

She then let her know, "Mrityunjay wants to paint me in my dancing poses."

Vasu was all excited, "Really!...Bhai wants to do that? OMG OMG...how cool is that...Ok I shall help you with your makeup and hair...and let me know what you are wearing...you don't have to tell Bhai I am helping you out...he might be embarrassed by it all."

They were both like two girls giggly and excited about the whole thing...

Later that night he could hear her singing...he smiled to himself...he tried to catch the words...the tune was soothing...

She and Vasu had discussed it. She would be wearing a traditional one and the other a little different more sensual. They had both gone out shopping for ornaments and stuff...Vasu had insisted, "Tara make the most of it...come on...This may be the first and last time he does such a thing..come on Tara don't be a spoilt sport...Chalo."

An orange bustier Choli to go with the dancer pants like outfit and another white chiffon and gold anarkali traditional skirt and churidaar.

She had gone to his room after her shopping spree, he wasn't there. Must be in the dark room...she came out only to see him approaching the room.

"Hi." he greeted her.

She felt a bit shy..."Hello...I...got the outfits...hope the colors make sense to your paintings."

They went back into his room, the outfits were hanging on her arm...did not give out the style or what exactly it was...he looked at the colors and remarked, "The sunset orange is beautiful...and the ivory white is good...will have some difficulty with the gold bit...it should be okay though...will manage...

He knew anything would look good on her, and suddenly said, "What explanation are you going to give Baba or Meethi with your absence in the house?"

Her eyes smiling she said, "Well you do the telling to Baba and I shall explain myself to Meethi...after all its you who wants to paint."

"Agree I'll do the talking...when can you start?"

"Tomorrow?"

"Yes tomorrow will be fine."

Nest day morning Baba and Mrityunjay asked Vasu why she wasn't attending college. She excused saying they had no lectures and was feeling a bit low so would stay put at home.

She then winked at Tara. Mrityunjay noticed that. What was going on between these girls?

When Tara was away in the kitchen he questioned his little sister, "Moti...now what was that wink all about? What are you upto?"

"Bhai I really have nothing much to do at college. And I am here because of you, helping Tara with her hair and makeup."

He beamed and winked at her, "Oh really! then make sure you make her look all the more beautiful for me will you Moti?" ruffled her hair and walked away.

Vasu wide-eyed kept smiling to herself. What was happening here? Bhai so happy after so long! Hmmm!

The women went into her bedroom and Vasu worked on Tara's natural beauty. Her Bhabhi was beautiful in a very special way.

She worked on her innocent eyes and created sensuality in them. Showed her how to do up her eyes and then the hair...

Today she would wear the white and gold churidar outfit. The back was low and sexy thought Vasu smiling to herself. And the frontline was perfectly cut to expose her mark and just a bit of her cleavage. Oh it took so much of cajoling on her part to get Tara to pick it up with that fabulous orange outfit too. The whole ensemble was very traditionally rich yet graced her body like it was made for her alone.

Thought Vasu whilst decking Tara up, hope her brother had the sense to take a back shot of her. She knew this alliance between her brother and Tara was temporary...she had misunderstood her all this time and now she found in her the perfect friend and confidante. Vasu prayed silently wishing things would work out between the two which looked impossible right now. But she and her brother both deserved happiness.

Vasu was delighted to see the woman reflecting back at her from the mirror. Tara looked stunning.

Tar wrapped herself in a chaadar and went down to the gazebo. He had said today's session would be here and tomorrow they would go to the stable or in the open meadows.

All nerves...and almost wanting to run back into the house...his back was facing her...she reached the gazebo...he was busy getting the tripod ready and his easel.

He looked up when she arrived, why was she covered like that? He frowned. In order to lighten up the tensed situation she asked hardly looking at his face..."where is the music system" still holding on to the ridiculous chaadar around her.

And then she turned, he saw her face...looking different...those eyes..larger than ever...he peeped through the camera lens ...he could drown in those eyes right now...he would have to learn to keep a strict control on his emotions...and then she dropped the chaadar...what stood in front in of him was a woman of beauty and grace...first her saw her exposed deep back, she moved and he saw her fidgeting with her flower draped long plait of hair...those jhumkas that hung from her tiny ear lobes...the necklace that adorned her deep neckline...his hands shook, he wiped off the sweat from them...he gulped hard...the fitting bodice that nipped at her waist and then flared and hung around her wide thighs...flowing around her whilst she sashayed around...the fabric that clung to her skin...thank goodness he watched through the lens... God! She was his and yet not His!

He moved around with his back to her, shut his eyes for a second or two, ran his hands through is hair...this is going to be more difficult than he thought...trying to curb his feelings..he just needed to act very professional...nothing more...took a deep breath, then turned back again looked at her blankly, cleared his throat saying, "Looking good...the color is great...and the morning light will capture it beautifully.

He looked at his phone, Vasu had sent him a message. He reads, "So? How's it?" He gulped hard...he saw her busy trying to put on some music...so sent a text back, "Gorgeous!...love u Moti"

'Tara...just play some light music...and pick on your dance poses." he went up to her..."set the dupatta aside will you please?"...she took it off her feeling a bit conscious of herself...she looked at him but found him hardly bothered about her presence...moving around ...just occupied in getting his pictures and sketches right...he had not even complimented her on her look. Could he not just say she looked good at least to make her feel nice? So what if he admired men, don't girls appreciate girls? Moron thought Tara! Her heart sank...all in the name of Love!

He moved to the camera and spoke encouragingly, she seemed like she was in a bad mood, what could it be? he needed her best shots. "Ok now look at me...give me your best poses Tara. You can dance and find your rhythm...when I raise my hand you hold still in that pose. Get it." She nodded...that commanding voice could make her do anything...

She started slow and then got into a routine, slow and rhythmic...her grace and poise perfect, very fluid movements...but her face reflected some kind of irritation. She seemed moody.

He rubbed his brow, he had to talk to her...going upto her he asked, "Tara what happened...you don't seem to be happy doing this? Are you okay?"

She was now all the more mad, "Why? I am fine and I am happy doing this...if not I would not have decked up this much just for your pictures and sketches...why you don't find the dance moves good enough?"

"It does not reflect on your face Tara?"

"What do you want exactly?" she snapped back, put her head down and was twirling her fingers.

No choice he had to...he goes upto her...his heartbeats raced...placing his arms around her shoulders he said seductively, "Look at me Tara." She raised her head to him, "First and foremost you are looking absolutely stunning today" her eyes lit up..."And I want you to dance as if you are dancing for Me...do you get it...I need to see the passionate side of a dancer...the real you." she nodded..."good girl". He reluctantly removed his arms...

His touch had done the trick...she changed the tempo of the song...and then broke into a routine, dancing like she had never before...He forgot he had to click...staring at the woman who gave it all to him...she realized he was just staring...she stopped and asked smiling, "what happened?"

He snapped out of his reverie and said, "Gosh you are an amazing dancer Tara." she smiled shyly, panting and sweating...and he said "Go on don't stop" and then rushed to the tripod pulled out the camera and captured every breathless move of her smooth body, her beautiful graceful hands, the sway of her hips, her upper torso tilted in grace, her beautiful back with beads of sweat, her brow, her sparkling and radiating eyes filled with a dancer's passion and fury...he just went click click click...he was truly enthralled...

"Relax Tara...go and freshen up and return."

When she was gone he went through every frame of hers...and just sat and admired each of them...so much of grace in every energetic movement, those spins, breathless footwork...she was truly a fabulous dancer...such rapid fluid movements... He would cherish them...till he lived...yes a short lived time on this earth...he sighed...

She returned and he explained now he would stake some still shots and would start to sketch her. He explained he wanted very traditional poses whilst sitting...like tying her ghungroos...and moves whilst sitting on the floor.

He sketched her face and parts of her upper frame...with breaks taken in between...

They wound up for the day and he called out, "Tara tomorrow we will do it indoors, in my room."

"Why?'

"See will arrange for some lighting etc...want a different setting."

Confused she asked, "But where would be the space for me to dance?'

"Not much dancing we will do more stills...what is the colour of your next outfit?'

Oh so he forgot, she replied sternly, "Orange...you forgot right."

"No just wanted to confirm...will set up the lighting based on that...and the sheers in the room."

"Thanks Tara...you did a good job today...we meet up tomorrow."

She turned away but then walked back to him..."Can I ask something from you?"

He was busy packing up the equipment, he asked,"What?"

"Well...can you teach me to ride Maria...the mare?"

He straightened himself up, smiling..."Really..ride a horse and you? I mean are you sure?..aren't you scared?"

She gave him a naughty smile back..."Yeah...but since I get free classes from you...why not...I can get rid of my fear too...I would have never attempted it in my lifetime otherwise."

"Fine...that is if you give me your best shots tomorrow." and he winked at her..."Now go on." thinking, go away girl...go...before I grab you and take you in my arms...

She rushed into her room and realized she was seeing a different side of him...like he was happier, that wink...what was that for...was that a joke between two guys him & her...or did he wink at Her, Tara the girl! Hmmm...she sighed...she was confusing herself...Consoled herself, don't think too much...it's only going to hurt you...and make you go crazy...you've chosen to spend time with him and you are getting to do just that...

They had met at the dining table again that evening. He kept stealing glances at her which did not go unnoticed by his Father though he found his son not doing it when she was looking. Like as if he did not want her to know.

Baba had got to know from Vasu that Mrityunjay wanted to sketch and paint Tara as his last wish! Whatever his reason they both were in close proximity.

Chapter 27

Next morning she was all excited...a hurried breakfast and back inside her room she had second thoughts of putting on the outfit. What if he was mad and asked her to change. Vasu was really crazy to choose something like this, She wasn't on stage for goodness sake. She was just about 4 to 5 feet away from him? And now he said in his bedroom? Hey bhagwan! She would call Vasu.

"Vasu listen I don't think I should wear this outfit. It looks too too...my tummy is exposed..."

Vasu was giggling at the other end, poor bhabhi, she clears her throat and says, "Tara don't tell me you of all the people is scared of Bhai."

"What? I am not afraid of anyone!"

Vasu still smiling, that does it, "Then what is the problem Tara. You are a dancer and that is an outfit worn by a dancer, so just do it...Bhai is not painting some Nun there...it would look fabulous in a painting...or sketch...Tara I have to go now" and disconnects the phone on purpose.

She sat on the bed not knowing what to do. Frowns and thinks but why was she getting so worked up? Why would it matter to him of all the people what she wore? As long as it came out good in the pictures!

So Tara pulled out the burnt orange two-piece ensemble and began to get dressed. Leaving a few lose tendrils across her face she brought the hair to one side of her shoulder. She looked at herself in the mirror and adorned herself with heavy earrings, left the neck bare and instead wore a beautiful gold and orange stone-drop waist chain...anxiety building in her... She covered herself with one of her very colourful long loose shirts and went up to his room.

She knocked on his door. He called out, "Come In"

She entered and found the room transformed... some of the furniture moved out ...there were ivory sheers, a hue of orange lighting...She pulled her shirt closer to her...her heart beats raced...

This posing for him was a bad idea...she wanted to run...His back was to her, anything looked good on the man...but today he looked a lot like an artist, the beige kurta and brown pyjamas... she found him looking into the lens, he glanced up and went about fixing something when he said, "Can you please take off that ridiculous shirt?"

Ridiculous? Really? Fine! Thought Tara...and so took off the shirt and flung it on the bed...he was too busy to notice anything anyways. He raised his head...only to find an exquisite Apsara like form of Tara standing right in front of him. Mesmerized by her presence his eyes took in the hair loosely left on one side of the shoulder, her generous bosom covered in a short heavily embroidered choli, the fitting dhoti-like trousers sitting low on her wide hips whilst draping her shapely legs and nice derriere, exposing her bare midriff on which tiny gold boondis danced from the edge of her choli...the hue of the lights lending a special glow to her skin...He gaped...put his foot forward...a faltered step...and lo and behold...he hit his shin hard into the table in front of him...Ouch!...he winced in pain...Oh gosh! he felt like a drooling idiot...who had just opened a poster magazine! He straightened up, damn he felt silly like as if he just found his eye candy...what was wrong with him! Get a hold of yourself man thought Mjay!

Wide-eyed and a little concerned she moved forward and asked him, "Are you okay? I mean are you ill or something?"

He raised his hand saying, "No...no... I am fine...I just did not see the table. By the way what are you wearing? That is not a traditional Kathak dancer costume?"

She was self-conscious now...twiddling her fingers she replied, "Well not really.. it's mostly worn during fusion dances, and Vasu really forced me to get it...I...I wasn't too keen. But if it's not, appropriate, I can change, honestly I can."

"Hmmm." Well if she wore it he might as well take advantage of the situation.

"No, it's perfect...it would look amazing in the pictures," how could he tell her that the whole outfit only complimented her womanly curves. She really looked like some exotic dancer!

"You know the drill... put on some light music." Said Mrityunjay in a very matter-of-fact manner and whilst she moved he poured himself a badly needed glass of water to soothe his parched throat.

Over the rim of the water glass his eyes followed her movements...all he could do was stare... Whilst fidgeting with his camera in hand...he wondered how was he supposed to go through this ordeal? Yeah all he needed to do was keep his hands to himself!

A nervous wreck herself Tara looked everywhere around the room but him.

He went back behind the tripod, saw that she was nervous too, and he was supposed to be in command here, so cleared his throat and gave instructions, "Tara now start a slow tempo, want to see a lot of your poses and hand movements. Will do some close ups too today...are you ready?"

She snapped, "Listen I am not a model, I just can't pose...need to dance...to get the poses right."

He could feel the tension in the air. She wasn't wrong being upset and uncomfortable...he felt worse...he had no right to put her through this...

With her eyes closed she moved and was warming up to the sound of the beats...He came up to her and reluctantly said, "Tara it's okay if you don't want to go through this...I mean...we can stop...I think you are not too happy about the whole thing."

She heard what he just said...well Mister...I might as bloody well show you the grace and beauty of a woman...Mrityunjay you'd be sorry you ever liked a man... opened her sparkling eyes...looked at him whilst she swirled...stopped ... and went and surprisingly increased the volume of the music...the beat and tempo filled the room...eyes radiating she spoke aloud...with a taunting smile, "Are you going to stand there and talk nonsense or will you do what you have to do?"

"Huh" Mjay stood there tongue-tied... yet thrilled... a second ago she had snapped...what made her now come out of it...nervousness gone! she was all ready for him...

She again indicated with her eyes to get going...he smiled, nodded and strode back to the tripod, disengaged the camera and began to capture her in every frame...

What she could not manage to do due to lack of space she gave him in her amazing poses, gestures and facial expressions...

Between shots he relished every move she made, the breathless footwork...those adas...

She explained, "Tribhanga Pose" she indicated with her eyes...and then she titled her hips to the left, bend her right knee and raised her hands above her head creating the perfect dramatic and sensual S. He captured the pose...but then his eyes lingered there...

He saw the waist chain hanging...he had to...the urge to feel her just overtook his sensibility... making it an excuse to touch her...he moved forward ...her eyes grew wider...a little confused...hearts racing ...he did not look into her eyes...instead lowered his gaze to her beautiful belly button...letting his fingers caress her there... whilst he adjusted the waist chain to sit properly on her hips...her body flushed at his touch...igniting a fire in her belly...her hands came down and she lost her balance, he held her with both his arms around her bare waist...his warm fingers lingering on her burning skin...he looked up...she looked into his smouldering brown eyes and did she by any chance see desire in them? ...did he feel the way she did...why did he not say something...no of course not...for sure no...it was all for his pictures..."let go of me" her trembling lips whispered...pushing him away...frustrated he stepped back...

What was he up to? Why punish her this way... thought Tara...

He just stared...angry with himself for doing this to her and mad with her for pushing him away...she seemed irritated...still breathing heavily she reached for her shirt ...he growled, "Sorry" is all he could muster...

She did not look at him, collected her CD...and continued speaking, "I think you are done...I am tired, can we stop?"

How could he expect so much out of her when he wasn't giving anything of himself?...He wished he could ask her to stay back... but said otherwise, "Yes...we can...you have given me more than I could ask for. ...I mean your time and effort in this whole session..Thanks a lot."

She looked at him accusingly...he could see she was about to cry...she gulped hard...he wanted to gather her in his arms...but refrained...once he did that there was no turning back for him and for her...for her own good he forced himself to curb his feelings his desires...she simply nodded, "yeah" and then just abruptly left...

Tara almost ran into her room, banged the door behind her, locked it...fell on her bed and cried...cried for loving him, cried for wanting him, cried for running away from him...cried for him, being the way he was...for everything...she pulled at the belly chain and flung it across the room...she hated this costume...why did she wear it...stupid of her to do so...

She changed and wore something really ridiculous...and then just curled in bed...feeling miserable.

Mrityunjay had slumped onto his recliner...eyes shut...he hated himself for putting her through it... oh how he would like to go to her right now and explain himself...clear the air...tell her what she wants to hear...but then what was the point...he would be selfish in doing so...she was better off without him in her life...

Vasu enters, winks at him and asks, "so how did it go Bhai?" He was not in the mood to talk to anyone. MJ gets up holds her by the shoulder and pushes her out of the room, "The shoot was okay...but please Vasu I am not in mood...have a bad headache." and pushed her out of the room...when she said, "Tara too did not open the door for me and now...?" he did not answer and shut the door on her face. Vasu wondered...

Then going into the bathroom, Mrityunjay took off his kurta and let the stinging cold shower run down his body...he needed to kill every feeling inside of him...mingled with it were his hot tears...

Chapter 28

Next day he met her in the hallway. She seemed withdrawn a faint Hi is all she said and walked away.

He wanted the real lively bold and brazen Tara back... Tara did everything to avoid him...Easier said than done she had coming running home from her mother's just to be around him...but it was becoming difficult being in his presence and hide her feelings...

Had he to know she would look like a fool or he may think she was doing this for his money after his death...

He noticed she was avoiding him...it had been almost three days now...he waited to catch up with her on the way out of the house...

"Hi...how have you been?" he asked her.

No choice thought Tara, "Oh I am good."

"So what happened to those horse riding classes?"

"What horse classes?" she feigned...

"Now don't tell me you want to chicken out!...And all that lecturing to live whilst living?"

Damn the man knew how to get through to her...

"I haven't chickened out."

"Then you must be scared."

"No I am not...okay fine let us start tomorrow."

"Now that's like my girl...see you tomorrow and yeah wear your sneakers and comfortable trousers...you know you will need to climb on the horse."

She looked defiant, "Sure I know that...Tara is not someone who backs off from something so easily."

His eyes were laughing at her,..he comes closer to her...looked into her eyes saying, "Yeah I know you too well by now," and touched her nose with his finger and walked off.

Leaving her standing there a little amused by his endearing gesture.

The following day...he saw her walking towards the stable, with her flared pyjamas, sneakers and a oversized ridiculous miss matched shirt over a tee... Hmmm...she did not want trouble like the last time...playing safe was his Tara. She should not catch him laughing so turned his back and laughed it off. Then maintaining a straight face he greeted her, "Hi...Ready?" She looked at him in riding pants, boots and all...he looked so royal...like those pictures of men from those old traditional princely families.

She walked into his abode...and looked around...saw his easel that had a cover on it..."Can I?"wanting his permission to venture into his private domain.

He extended his hand that said, "please go ahead."

She entered and remembered how the real man lived...stark...bare of anything beautiful...just a simple wooden bed...the basic necessities...a wooden rocking chair maybe made by him...the last time she was there with Fahim Chacha, she so wanted to beautify and clean up the place. Today it was neat and tidy. She saw a frame turned and kept away on the shelf. She reached for it...he quickly stopped her from doing so..."That's private" and pushed it further away from her prying eyes and hands.

Oh so he did not want her to know who it was...

"Shall we?"

She walked out and went upto the mare. Stroked it and said, "She is beautiful and so gentle."

'Yeah she is...so you scared or nervous?"

"Yes a bit nervous."

"Ok I got you a helmet...and maybe you need to get riding boots and trousers...but today its okay...Now remember this...horses can actually tell what mood you are in when you are riding. So if you are nervous Maria will sense it and become nervous as well. So stay calm and relaxed.

She listened attentively whilst he touched and stroked the mare. She looked on...such gentleness in his touch...

He spoke to the mare but looked at Tara, "Maria this is Tara...remember I told you about her?...you have met her...I know...but now she wants to learn to ride you...so you are going to be patient and gentle with her."

The mare grunted...So he has been talking to the mare about her? Oh gosh who knows what he has been telling her..she would only know once she mounted the horse.

He looked at her in a very gentle yet commanding voice, "Tara if you trust the horse it will trust you too...and you got to trust me too."

"I trust you...you know that."

He felt his heart swell with love for the woman standing beside him..."Ok now first you will learn to prepare your horse for riding so I will teach you to groom her."

She followed his instructions...and did as she was told...he would correct her...and she listened...

He then said, "I am going to teach you to mount her okay...come...she reached close to the horse...he said, "You always mount from the left...I'll help you don't worry...hold the reins in your left hand and turn the stirrup towards you with your right. Put your left foot into the stirrup, hold the saddle, bounce gently in the stirrup, then swing your right leg over the horse, and sit down in the saddle."

"'Come on now try..." and he repeated whatever he said and tried to get her on top of the horse. She failed to do so thrice...

On the fourth attempt he pushed her up and got her eventually in the saddle."Steady...stay calm Tara...don't get scared...I am here."

She was squealing with delight and apprehension too...

"I am going to lead Maria...and we will only walk the horse...nothing more...okay?...

She nodded...scared but did not show it...

"Why are you slouching? Sit up tall Tara!"

Gosh her master wanted her to get everything right. She sat upright and he walked the mare...she loved the feeling...sitting up...seeing the meadows around her...it was a different feeling...

He then helped her get off the mare, whilst she got off, his arm protectively went around her waist...she did not mind...instead loving the feeling...she had got a whiff of his sweat..

He said, "I think Maria likes you."

"How do you know."

"Well she has not got agitated at all...which is strange...she doesn't really know you."

She strolled around and said suddenly, "I am dying for a cup of tea would you like some or maybe your coffee...I'll make it...I mean as payment for today's class."

She went into his abode again and felt so much at home...and got on with making him coffee and herself a cup of tea. Oh how he wished he could hold her from behind and plant a kiss on her neck...he walked out instead... He was falling deeper and deeper in love with her seeing her there in his little hut and stable so comfortable in his bare surroundings...

She offered him his cup and went and plonked herself on the tree house and said, "I understand now why you love this place."

"It's beautiful and amazing to be one with nature...the feeling is something else."

"When do I get to see my paintings?' she asked him matter-of-fact

"Not until I have finished," said he.

Then hurriedly she sipped her tea and announced, "I got to go home it will be dinner time soon."

He immediately asked, "So shall we continue with the riding lessons again tomorrow...if so need to wear boots...that you can borrow from Vasu...and wear jeans...not these looking at her flared pyjamas!"

She looked down at her pyjamas and was about to snap back, when he said, "They are not for riding bass."

"Ok fine...aren't you coming home now?"

Oh gosh she sounded like his wife...he smiled...she did sound like his wife...

"No you go on...I'll be home a little later...will get some sketches done," he hoped some day he could use the word Love!

When he saw her walking towards the stable the next day, she was found to be carrying two bags full of stuff out of which one had flowers sticking out of them.

He asked her, "Tara what's this?"

She announced, "Well you live like a monk...so thought I would bring you some things."

And then went about removing fruits, biscuits, some soup packets and snacks. And then she explained the wild flowers she picked on her way to the stable...looked for something to keep them in...cut out a plastic bottle, filled it with water and placed it on the dressing table in the stark room.

He leaned against the door with folded arms and said, "You know I can bring all the stuff from home myself."

She went about emptying the basket and said, "Yah I know you can, but you don't...so I had to do it..."

She went on with her blabber, "You know what...you should plant some flowers around the place...and some herbs."

He had to stop her before he felt like hugging her for it..."Are you here to play house-house or to learn horse-riding."

Frowning and with pursed lips she retorted, "Fine...let's go."

He trained her a little more, she had fallen twice off the mare...he pushed her to get up and try again and again...they did a short trot...and then she remarked suddenly, "I have never seen you ride...do you mind?"

he looked at her and narrowed his eyes in suspicion, "Why are you so keen on it?'

"Hmmm...I know you think the worst of me, but which student would not like to see their master in action...I am in awe of my dance and music teachers when they perform."

Her questioning was totally innocent..he would have loved instead to corner her and tell her he could be her master in more than just horse riding...

And so like a peacock trying to display his attributes as part of his courtship and charm her... Mrityunjay mounted onto Marya in one smooth go. Then looked down at her with a smirk...that signaled to her that he was doing it just for her whilst Tara watched the beast and his magnificent master bolt like the wind...She stood in awe as she watched with fascination taking in the beauty of the scene, the man and his horse...those strong sinewy arms that held the reins of the beautiful beast...the way they took off...

To be contd./...

Chapter 29

They were gone from her sight and she waited with baited breath for their return.

A good ten minutes and she was still leaning against the tree when he returned and bolted close to her, extended his hand, saying, "Come up."

"What?...How? Why?"

"You ask too many questions...don't you trust me?'

"Get up here in front of me...will take you for a ride...come on...before the sun sets."

He leaned and helped her mount, his powerful arms around her waist holding onto the reins, thighs touched thighs...she gulped hard...a throbbing heart...his vast broad shoulders engulfing her...she dare not turn her flushed face towards him...she could feel his breath against her skin...he whispered, "Afraid?"

Yes of what you do to me now...her response was just the opposite, in a cracked tone, "No."

His voice dropped...knowing too well she was completely affected by his proximity just as he was with hers..."Then why do you sound scared," waiting for an answer...he looked straight ahead...confused...why did it feel like as if he wasn't talking about the ride at all...and wasn't expecting her to answer...so cleared her throat and replied, "No I don't..of course not."

So she was backing off...He then gave her instructions to hold the reins steady and he rode the horse...that galloped and sped...she felt the wind in her face and hair, the meadows and hills passing by... ...the feeling was amazing...suddenly she felt she would slip off the mare when his left arm grabbed her by the waist, she heard him say, "Steady now Tara"...she could feel the strength and safety of his hand and arm through her shirt...

She steadied herself and sat upright...they had reached a hill...the mare trotted on his command...and stopped. He got off first...then helped her get down...

The sun was almost ready to set and disappear...

He held the reigns of the mare and said, "Beautiful isn't it."

"Breathtaking," she stood and watched while the glow of the star reduced to an orange hue...shining bright in another world...but spreading darkness around them...just like the sun her heart sank...was he trying to tell he there was no tomorrow with him...

It was such a beautiful spot...a lover's point and here they were...two people...bound so closely yet so far away...afraid of giving to each other...

He had witnessed this sunset so many times but today it was special...she was with him...he might never be able to bring her here again...never would they see the sun rise...

It was dark around them, she said, "Shall we return, its dark now."

There was pain when he spoke, "Oh I could stay here in dark all night...you know Darkness is my best mate."

She opted to walk along with him...the darkness and silence...walked along with them...and then she asked, "Why have you embraced Darkness?"

"What?"

"You heard me...don't you want to live."

"The point is Can I? and can we not talk about this?"

"But why not?"

"I just don't want to...that's it."

He was not ready to open up to her yet...

They reached home to find Baba waiting for them...he announced, "Listen here is the invite to the house party at Uncle Mishra Silver wedding anniversary this weekend. You know how close we are...especially Mrityunjay."

Meethi rushed up to her, "We will go shopping tomorrow Tara, and take Vasu as well with us."

Vasu turned to Mrityunjay, "Bhai why don't you take us for shopping?"

"No Moti...why me?"

"Please Bhai it's been ages since you took us out." Baba too insisted so it was agreed...

The next day Mrityunjay had taken the women along and left them to shop on their own, saying he would return as he had to get his own stuff.

He picked up what he wanted but suddenly retrieved his steps back to a diamond jewellery store. Couldn't help but go through the display. Seeing the rings he so wish he could gift her one, but how?...one he did not know her right size and secondly how could he? When he knew that their relationship would terminate sooner than later, how could he gift her something that meant commitment? He knocked his knuckles onto the glass top in a fit of frustration, a salesman approached him, "Can I help you sir?"

"Oh sorry I...I was looking for gifting something to my wife.?"

"Any occasion."

"No, just a thank you gift," he would tell Baba to give it to her when he was gone...something to remember him by...a parting gift.

The salesman displayed various chains and pendants...nothing seem to please him, so the man asked, "If you don't mind asking you Sir but what kind of a person is she?"

He looked around and his eyes fell on one that was displayed right there in front of him...he pointed out, the man smiled, "There...like that Ruby there."

The man beamed, "Yes I get...You do have great taste...that's from our best ruby collection."

And brought out the dark red ruby and diamond pendant hanging on a white gold chain. He held the pendant in his hand and thought yes just like her Vibrant, soft, passionate and energetic. That was his Tara.

He paid for it with his debit card that Baba had recently activated. The first ever big purchase he had done on this card.

He then went back to collect them and was filled in with details of their shopping spree, whilst complaining about Tara not keen to buy anything.

"Bhai, Meethi Bhabhi and I had to literally force to buy stuff."

He glanced at Tara who looked away. She wasn't too keen on this whole party and invitation. What was the point of posing as a couple when they were not. At least he knew people there, she would be left out amidst their crowd.

Vasu had then asked him, "You did buy something! Really you shopped? I can't believe it Bhai"

"Oh nothing just some necessities Fatso...that is all."

Vasu and Meethi giggled. Tara wondered so he is pretty keen on going there, She remembered Vasu telling her that Bhai was very close to Uncle Mishra's family. There would lots of friends of Bhai.

They had rushed home, when MJay received a call from Baba informing the lawyer was at home waiting for him.

To be continued/...

Chapter 30- My favourite chapter

They would be going out together as a couple for the first time. She was nervous and excited as well. Did not know what to expect, but since Meethi had filled her in with some details, she painstakingly dressed for the occasion. It was the first time she was wearing a sari at least after her marriage.

She loved black and had chosen the sari on Vasu & Meethi's persistence finding it a bit too expensive and the jewellery to go with it. But when she had draped it she herself topped with the gold spaghetti strap silk blouse, she could not help but fall in love with it. She may be his temporary wife or whatever but to the world she was Mrs. Mrityunjay and nothing and nobody could take that away from her. She would not let herself down in any way nor allow anyone else to do so.

Vasu, Meethi and Mrityunjay were all waiting. Looking confident from the outside but extremely nervous she climbed down the stairs.

Mrityunjay looked up to see her coming down and was completely gobsmacked...he was a goner...ravishingly beautiful in the black see-through lace sari her hair all tied up in a soft bun at the nape of her neck with a few tendrils framing her face...an epitome of sophistication and yet titillating and really sexy...he gulped...their eyes met as she scanned his dapper suit. She had always seen him in traditional wear, but the dark blue blazer and the silk blue shirt over trousers made him look like he was all dressed to kill.

Too shy to look at him she turned to Meethi and Vasu...

Vasu exclaimed, "Tara...Oh my gosh...you look really wow...woohaa!..someone is gonna get killed tonight."

She turned to her brother and joked, "Bhai you better keep an eye on your wife tonight." His eyes fell on the black mole against her dusky skin, yes he would have to...but then turned to his sister saying, "I have no choice do I, and there is you too, looking prettier than ever."

Tara felt stubbed and ignored...never mind...it was expected of him...

Baba and her MIL came and they decided the couples would go in separate cars so if anyone wished to return they could do so...

Tara asked Vasu to join them, now he was irritated...

They reached the venue and the introductions were done and pleasantries exchanged, Mr & Mrs Mishra greeted and gave her a genuine welcome. Mjay hugged them and they were very pleased to see him. He was told where his son and friends were.

Mr. Mishra seemed like a very fun and jovial person who said, "At last I get to meet you bitiya, now I know why Mritu beta and Jayraj kept you away"...then offering his arm, "chalo let me take you around and introduce you to everyone here...Jayraj I am taking away your Bahu tonight."

She took an instant liking to him and his wife "Uncleji ka saath nahi diya toh kya kiya?" said Tara and was whisked away by him.

After introductions were done and a lot of fun and laughter shared with Uncle Mishra Tara sat along with Vasu, Meethi & Aditya.

She had kept glancing towards him and found that he was with a group of guys who were involved in very animated conversations. Laughing, joking, hugs, handshakes whilst some more guys came forward to meet Mrityunjay.

Many had turned towards her and raised their glasses and she had smiled back in acknowledgment...

More people arrived and the party was in full swing. She was standing and talking to Aunty Mishra and another few ladies when she saw the tall beautiful girl walk upto him and greet him with a cheek to cheek kiss on both sides and placed her arms around him in a hug. The girl was wearing a halter gown and Mrityunjay was all smiles and hugged her back.

Across the room their eyes met. Her big brown eyes widened in surprise angrily staring at him... she looked away...totally miffed and filled with jealousy...oh so he wasn't immune to women after all.

Meethi asked her, "What happened Tara you look upset?"

"Nothing just getting a headache, that is all."

She looked up again and found the woman mingling with the other guys as well. So it seems everyone there knew her and were friends probably.

He looked up and saw her staring again...he knew then she was jealous...hmmm...he would simply play along...ignoring her he continued being a part of the male banter and bonding. The boys were asking him to introduce her to them and he would in a while...

She was busy in conversation with Meethi, when she heard him approach her, "Tara,"..she turned to see him with the woman. "Hello" said the lady and extended her hand. "Hello Tara...I am Sasha." Tara smiled said a "Hello" and extended her hand too, whilst he explained she was Aunty Mishra's brother daughter.

The girl had a very heavy American accent when she spoke, "Looking gorgeous and I am so glad to have met you...I have heard a lot about you from Jaya Uncle...I do hope someday both of you can make it to the US."

She had no answer to that, so just smiled and said, "Thank you for the invitation Sasha, nice to have met you."

The lady was genuinely sweet...she then turned to him and said, "Mrityunjay, I shall say bye to you both, I have a flight to catch tonight...lovely meeting you Tara... and then kissed Tara on the cheeks, turned to him, "And Mritu take care...you surely did the right thing," and then hugged him and left.

They were left alone...first they shared a glance, and then she looked around her, he asked, "Tara did you eat something?" Irritated that he was only bothered now, "So you finally asked."

Just then all his male friends turned up at his side, "So aren't you going to introduce us to Bhabhi MJ?"

Each of them extended their hand introducing themselves, and she did the same but was smiling and said, "Itne saare naam toh mushkil hoga yaad rakhne mein, ek minute...aap Ravi - hmm Hasmukh Ravi, achha aap Sahil - tirchi aankhen, ghungroo baal wale, and went to give them each a descriptive name... and continued, "Aaap sab se milkar khushi hui" "Same here Tara Bhabhi...our Mrityunjay thoda dull hai lekin now meeting you we know you will change that about him."

Mjay punched Ravi in the tummy in a playful manner for complaining about him...just then the guys turned to see the entry of another guy, said one of them, "here comes the Casanova Samir."

All eyes turned to see an extremely handsome looking man, he walked with an air of flamboyance, and went around flirting and flattering every woman in the room including Mishra Aunty. He looked like a star and was aware of the way women drooled over him, young and old. He was an obnoxious charmer!

Just then Uncle Mishra and Baba called the guys to get something done, so they all had to move away.

As soon as Samir reached her side, he turned to Tara saying, "Now who is this gorgeous hot looking lady in black...that I have never met before" Meethi was about to answer when Tara replied, "Mrs. Mrityunjay Shekhawat."

She noticed MJ looking in her direction. She ignored him and got on talking with the guy. Samir ofcourse was flattering her, but who cared, the man whose attention she longed for did not bother to even say she looked good.

She was really bored of the guy and his self-praise...but kept smiling and laughing at his silly jokes...just so that Mjay knew she was having a good time.

The music tempo changed to a slow dance and Samir extended his hand saying, "Since MJ is not around would you care to dance?"

She answered, "Sorry but I don't know to dance."

"Oh she does know but has promised me the first dance," Tara heard MJ say right by her side whilst he placed his hand at her waist. Where did he come from thought Tara.

Samir still not giving up, "MJ boy how are you doing? I have missed you." And then embraces MJ in a tight hug.

Samir then looks from Tara to MJ and taunts,"You know as a rule never leave a lady unattended, you never know who can whisk her away."

She would have loved to reply but thought let the man do it. "I will sure remember that Samir, can you excuse us now, would like to dance now," and whisked Tara to the floor.

She grumbles, "Why did you bring me to the floor, when did I say I want to dance?"

He had already taken her in his arms, his right palm touching the bare skin of her back, he forcibly placed her left hand over his shoulder then bent close to her ear and whispered, "Everyone is dancing around, now don't make a scene for nothing," entwining his left hand in hers.

She shut her mouth up and just looked away, whilst his eyes were intent on her, "What was so funny about his jokes that you were enjoying them?"

She looked at him furious, but did not say a word, "I don't need to answer that Mrityunjay."'

He pulled her closer and whispered, "Just wanted to say something though."

"Now what?' she snapped.

She was busy smiling at whoever passed by them, refusing to look at him, his voice dropped to a husky low, "You are looking stunning in this saree...and really sexy!"

She jerked her head up to him, lips parted, her glazed eyes widened in surprise, saw the twinkle in his eyes and the smirk on his lips...his eyes fell on her parted lips. She stopped swaying...stunned by his remark...just then she was jerked by another couple close to them she let go of his hand and moved back. The music had stopped. They moved apart.

She just kept thinking it was the way he had said it. Confused she did not know what to say, lost for words. But then her attention was diverted to Uncle Mishra making an announcement, "Ladies and Gentlemen, I have been told by my very dear friend that we have an accomplished singer in our midst, so I am going to request that person to give us the pleasure of listening to her sing. Tara Singh Shekhawat."

Her hands went to her mouth, Oh Gosh why did Uncle do that? She looked at Mrityunjay for support. "Please can you tell Uncle I can't do it?"

He shrugged his shoulders, "Sorry...If I were you, I would not disappoint such a lovely couple on their Anniversary."

"Please there are so many people around here," she pleaded for his support.

"But I am confident you can do it...so come on," and instead took her hand and brought her to the elderly Couple.

Tara tried convincing Uncle Mishra, but everyone just insisted that she sing. Baba too and Vasu toh was overly excited.

Auntyji said, "Beta we are family here, so it's going to be okay...don't worry...your Uncle knows all the songs...another lover of music, he will support you if you falter."

Turning to her husband she said, "Kyun Janaab."

""Haa aap ke liye kuchh bhi karoonga darling."

Auntyji blushed and Tara saw the love between these two, even at this stage of their life. It was such a joy to watch this loving couple...sharing something so precious.

Tara took the mike from Uncle and announced, "Ok I will sing whatever songs you ask me to." Aunty mentioned her choice and so did Uncle.

She then went to the DJ to sort out the BG score and other technicalities.

Placed herself on a high rise bar stool. Mrityunjay had moved to his circle of friends, but was right opposite her. Vasu stood as support holding her hand.

She first looked at him...there was a faint smile to his lips...and his eyes pierced through her soul...she could not look further so looked at the couple and said, "Auntyji this is for you...your favourite"

And then Tara sang, without a care in the world...her song and she became one...

He was enthralled with her sing...and it pricked his heart...the lure in her words...calling out to him...She noticed his friends patted him and nudged him...she first lifted her eyes to him...saw him staring with his hand to his lips...shyly averted her gaze from him and sang to her heart's content...

lag ja gale ki phir ye hasin raat ho na ho
shaayad phir is janam men mulaaqaat ho na ho
lag jaa gale se ...

ham ko mili hain aaj, ye ghadiyaan nasib se
ji bhar ke dekh lijiye ham ko qarib se
phir aap ke nasib men ye baat ho na ho
phir is janam men mulaaqaat ho na ho
lag ja gale ki phir ye hasin raat ho na ho

paas aaiye ki ham nahin aaenge baar-baar
baahen gale men daal ke ham ro le zaar-zaar
aankhon se phir ye pyaar ki barasaat ho na ho
shaayad phir is janam men mulaaqaat ho na ho

lag ja gale ki phir ye hassin raat ho na ho
shaayad phir is janam men mulaaqaat ho na ho
lag ja gale ki phir ye hassin raat ho na ho

When the song ended there was a resounding roar of claps...she took a bow...and then announced, "This one is for Uncle & Aunty and wishing them another 100 years of togetherness.

"Uncle you have to sing as well, it's a duet."

And so they both sang the song "Janam Janam Ka Sath Ho" a classic by Lataji & Mohd Rafi.

Everyone clapped again and Uncle came forwarded and blessed her, "By God you are a fabulous singer, Jayraj kaha se mili aap ko Tara Bahu."

"And yes beta we have to do this singing session again."

Tara immediately said, "Uncle why don't you come home and we can have a nice session of Antakshari and play the dhol...now Baba too will learn soon."

The older men laughed and joked...and MJ's friends came forward also to congratulate her collectively.

Samir took the mike and said, "Wow...that was just amazing Tara, wish I knew you before MJ did."

MJ now wanted to smash the guy up but the boys stopped him. Samir got a scolding from Uncle and the matter was cooled off.

They are had their meals, and then said their goodbyes and promises to meet again.

Tara and MJ thanked their host, and Aunty & Uncle hugged her and MJ..."Beta don't worry everything will be fine, you have our support and prayers and now you have your wonderful wife with you. Good luck and God Bless." To Tara he said, "Take care of him...he is a wonderful human being...and now you are his Ardhangini...no matter what happens don't lose hope." She nodded not knowing what to say...eyes glistening with tears, choking with emotions she said softly, "Sure Uncle thank you for everything, I really had a lovely time." She took their blessings and they left.

The ride in the car was a silent one. Vasu was sleeping on the backseat of the car... She softly woke her up when they reached home.

Tara was climbing up the stairs and he was behind him, when she heard him say, "I want to talk to you."

"I am tired...can't we talk tomorrow." they had reached her room.

Pushing the door of her room open, she enters, he says "No."

She threw her purse on the settee and was in the act of removing her earring she asked, "Ok shoot what is the urgency."

He had shut the door behind him, "Why were you sucking upto that guy?"

Confused she frowned, "What kind of a question is that? And which guy are you talking about?"

Getting worked up with her attitude of ignoring him, he turned her around, "Samir ofcourse...what was all that laughing and joke sharing with him?"

She was furious now, keeping one earring on the table, she looked at him angrily, "Weren't you doing the same thing with Sasha, kissing and hugging her?"

"Don't bring Sasha into this...you don't know anything about that creep...and you were really enjoying it."

She was now defiant and angrier than ever for accusing her without reason, "So what if I laughed and joked with him...and then she laughed sarcastically, "wait a minute...wait...wait...don't tell me Mrityunjay you like him for yourself? so you were jealous he did not pay You any attention?"

She hit the nail on the head, he yelled, "What?...I have had enough of your nonsense."

He grabbed and pulled her close to him, one hand he held at the nape of her neck, the other was around her waist.

She struggled to get out of his hold, "Leave me, damn you, what are you doing?"

He pulled her closer, her breasts crushed against his chest...she looked into his smouldering angry eyes, fearing what was coming...she had never seen this side of him before.

He brought his mouth down on hers and devoured her lips, punishing her, sucking every breath out of her...her legs gave way...he tightened his hold, the hands that were banging against his chest relaxed when his kiss began to explore every corner of her mouth, seeking her tongue, probing and demanding more out of her.

He raised his head and huskily called out her name, she opened her closed eyes...knew he wanted more out of her...but she pushed him away...

He was mad..."This should clear your stupid notion now and that I am straight and always have been. And yes Sasha is like an older sister to me, nothing more..and happily married to an amazing man." and walked out of there...banging the door after him.

She stood there shocked...trying to find her balance...her throbbing heart...her face flushed, her body burning ...she touched her bruised lips and mouth..trying to get a hold of herself...when he barged back in again!

She saw him move towards her...she backed off...he neared her again like a Lion to its prey...she walked back and landed against the wardrobe...there was no escape..."Please Mrityunjay, stay away."...he cornered her, she brought her hands forward to push him away, he held them above her head with his left hand...he was stronger and towered over her after all...physically she could not overpower him...he growled in a soft tone looking into those frightened yet beautiful large brown eyes, "I want you to know that I have been wanting to kiss you the day you brought Vasu home, then again when you dressed like a man, and again when you cried in my arms like a baby for Bunty, and again when you posed in my room like an exotic dancer," he looked at her accusingly, the intensity of his stare piercing through her own, his voice a husky low, "what did you have in mind that day? coming to me like that?..and then the song"...her lips quivered, she was breathless, he had come back only to tell her so...but like a moth drawn to a flame he could not help it...his eyes turned dark with desire, "and now I am dying to do this,' he lowered his head... whilst his right hand let go of her hands and instead reached for her exposed waistline, his fingers caressed her bare hot skin...her lips parted waiting to receive his...instead his lips grazed her cheek all the way to her ear and lower down to the black mole of her exposed neck..and he kissed her there crying out her name...she shuddered with pleasure... his caressing fingers...linger in the centre of her belly, he pushed his hand inside her sari skirt...she trembled...a strange sound coming out of her throat...his fingers deftly playing around her lower belly and all he did was pull out the pleats of the sari...pin and all...spilling them on the floor...her body aching for more of him but her mind angry that he dared to do this to her..."No" she gave him a push...he backed off releasing her just as quickly...He looked lost in her...his eyes still glazed with desire and pleasure..."Tara please...I..let me" hearts pounding...a heaving chest..burning cheeks...she turned her back to him, the whole sari lay encircled around her feet, he heard her shaking voice whisper, "please leave," he was gone.

Mrityunjay went back into his room and slumped himself into bed. He had let his feelings and desires over ride his sensibility and he did not care anymore. He loved her deeply and that is all that mattered. He would tell her so tomorrow.

He could not sleep a wink...tossing and turning...he stood against the window looking out for the sun to rise...

Tara was upset with herself for responding that way to him. But wasn't this what she wanted. She loved him...so what was the matter...she undressed...looked at herself in the mirror, her whole body had responded to him...just thinking of him made her go all warm...she then put on her night clothes and got into bed...hugging herself...she thought... she had been longing for his attention and he had denied it to her all along...making a fool out of her.

She wanted to shout and scream at him...how dare he...how dare he...pumping and hitting at the pillows Tara just about managed to fall asleep.

Chapter 31

Next day Tara did not turn up at the breakfast. Meethi announced Tara was not keeping well, so was resting. Daijaan had taken the breakfast to her. She had not come down all day.

He had to speak to her. Mrityunjay went up to her room and knocked. She did not answer. "Tara...you okay?"

"Just go away," is all he could get out of her.

He decided to let her be for today, he could wait until tomorrow though he was restless himself all day.

The following day, he had told Joseph were she to ask about him, though he was at home, to tell her that he was at the stables.

And right enough she had come down, he sneaked in to the kitchen to find her alone.

"Why are you hiding and from what?" She turned to look at him in surprise..."I am not," continuing to be busy around the kitchen.

"Liar...if you are not then I want to speak to you."

Ignoring him, "I am busy you can surely see that."

She was being stubborn...but he was not going to let go of her so easily. He first said, "Look at me when talking to you." Still mad at him and at herself for allowing him to have such a hold over her, she folded her arms turned to look at him and said, "Yes."

He gave her serious stare and warned, "I am giving you an hour to sort yourself out here, then come up to our room. If you don't...I would not hesitate to come down here and carry you up myself."

She was fuming...how dare he speak to her like that...as if he owned her...when did his attitude change?

She had no choice...just wasting the hour around the kitchen somehow, with sweaty palms and a throbbing heart she knocked on his door.

He was standing at the window looking outside when she entered...his wife...the woman he so dearly loved...he felt bad for being harsh to her...but he had to... knowing her too well.

Scared, confused, mad, angry, anxious...Tara stood there...looking at her husband, the man she so deeply loved...He moved closer to where she stood...

"Why are you avoiding me?"

"I am not...who said so."

"Tara stop denying it...I know you are mad at me but can't we just talk it out?

She blurted it out,"I have every reason to be angry with you...you you have been lying to me that you have not been straight."

He drew closer and pulled at her arm, "When did I ever tell you that I am not? Tell me...you just jumped to the conclusion when Baba told you about the victim." He was right she had made her own presumptions and never asked him about it.

"But you knew I was thinking on those lines...so why did you let me believe, because you knew if I got to know otherwise I would not have stayed back."

"Yeah...I agree to that...I am sorry for that."

"Then why now...why..."

He pulled and held both her arms, looked into her accusing eyes, "Because I LOVE YOU LIKE CRAZY, and I cannot bear to see anyone else get close to you."

Her eyes widen...her heartbeats raced...eyes glistening...she shrugged off his arms, "But if you love somebody you will not deny them your love...you did not start loving me just yesterday, did you?" she screamed.

Wanting to desperately explain, he cried out," Tara I...I...was denying you and myself because I cannot guarantee a future together."

"What future are you talking about? We don't even have a past or present...what about all the yesterdays that have gone by wasted, can you return them to me...the moments that I would have cherished all my life?... If I were to tell you I was to die tomorrow of some illness, would you deny your love to me?...Answer me!"

His pounding heart could not believe it...moisture filled his eyes...she did admit she loved him all along...and that she was accusing him of keeping her away from him...

She wiped away her tears and spoke, "Anyways I have signed the divorce papers, like you said we have no future together...then why now."

He pleaded, "Tara damn the bloody divorce papers...don't do this to me...I am sorry for what we lost...but now..."

She was still angry with him...just then they both heard Baba frantically calling out, "Mrityunjay Mrityunjay open the door, quickly."

He wiped off his wet cheeks, and so did she, he opened the door to see his Baba in tears, who hugged Mrityunjay and said, "Beta you have to surrender yourself tomorrow...I failed you...the lawyer just called...he says until the case reopens in the court you have to serve your sentence..don't know what this means."

Tara's world came crashing down... knuckles turning white ...she couldn't breathe... trembling she clutched on to the chair,... Mrityunjay felt the blow... colour drained from his face...he was scared to look at her ... so it was all over after all...he had to show he was strong for his Baba who was breaking down...

He consoled his father, "Baba I had resigned to my fate, you should too. Better now than later." How could he tell his father than this time it was harder for him, that he wanted to run away from it all and take her along with him...

Baba realized Tara was in the room, he called out to her "Tara Bahu" she ignored both of them and was leaving the room when Mrityunjay said, "Tara wait..." she just fled the room, dragging feet, gasping for breath, she wept all the way to her own room.

She cried and cried, sobbing her heart out...felt a horrible sinking pain in her chest...she sunk to the floor and stared into oblivion...a numbness taking over her body...it was all over...he had not come...

To be continued/----