Life Without you: Shravan and Suman Completed story

Disclamair: Please note that this short story has been inspired by a book I read : My Life for yours by Vanessa Carnevale (Though not the exact story but inspiration was from there😆) And also is taken from a Kdrama i watched as an inspiration...Suspicious Partner :)

PS: I have not a regular viewer of the show, nor do i know half the characters but i used to watch sort of in the initial days. This story is purely based on an inspiration and the khurfati dimag of mine and comments are welcome...Its pure garbage LOL

Now let's get garbage started LOL

:Life without you:

"My life is incomplete without you, you mean the world to me Sharvan". You are my everything, you are my life, you are my heart, you belong with me"

Words that once melted his heart, words that once make his heart thump with joy, and turn him into a giant puddle meant nothing to him now. They were empty words. His heart had been shattered into tiny pieces. His world turned upside down. Everything seemed bleak now. She had left his side, torn his heart apart. It had been five years since he had last seen or heard about Suman and five years since that night, the night he wished to erase from his mind but it constantly haunted him on a daily basis.

The years and months and weeks and each minute, those moments haunted him....Not a single day passed without the thought of Suman passing his mind. He wished to forget but he couldn't.

Today Sharavan was a well known business entrepreneur, a CEO owning a law firm of his own. He had an empire that he always dreamt of, a law firm named after his father. He was successful, he had everything he ever wanted but his heart was empty shell, filled with memories he only wishes to erase....If only it was that easy:

Chapter 1: Tiwari House:

Suman Tiwari woke up as the sunlight streamed through the glass paned window from her little flat. Today was her big day, the day that she had always dreamt of. Her journey of becoming a lawyer would finally be fulfilled today. She had an interview at the biggest law firm in the entire country, the Malhotra industries.

"Hey Suman! Are you up dear?" Suman's mother called out.

Yes maa, I am coming, just let be shower and get ready, give me 15 minutes maa!

Okay beta, dont take too long, its your big day today!!

Yes Maa! I know, I am really excited.

Suman with excitement and full enthusiasm went to get herself ready....what would she wear? A dress maybe? That might be too much, maybe a suit..Suit sounds good...Suit it is. She picked up her black ironed suit with a cream blouse to go with it and head to the shower.

"Sumaaaaaaaaaaaaaan! Her maa called her for 2nd time now....beta you might be late! its already 8:30. Why do you always do this beta? This last minute rush...thori jaldi uthi na beta...

Maa coming, Suman hurried down the stairs to grab a quick breakfast before she ran off the door...Her mother had prepared Poha for the morning breakfast, a light simple breakfast which she loved especially as she was not a person who liked to nibble in the morning...esp so early...As she engulfed her breakfast and was about to get out the door, her maa came upto her with yogurt and sugar (dahi cheeni).

"Here Suman, also have this yogurt and sugar, and let me tie this bhagwan ji ka dhaga, it will bring you luck." Also dont forget to get ashirwaad from dad.

" Thanks maa for reminding me" It had been five years since the demise of Suman's father. Five years since things took a U turn and since her breakup with Sharavan. Sharavan the man whom she had given her heart to, only to be shattered....He was a person she truly hated. Whatever happened was entirely his fault...or was it?

"Suman? You okay beta? Don't tell me you were thinking about that Sharavan again?!

"No Maa, don't worry I am not. Ill see you tonight, bye ma!

Are you sure na? I hope you dont stress yourself about it and dont worry too much! You keep worrying about rent and all that...your maa is here you need not worry...

"Maa no.. Im okay...i know I have you...I have to go now or ill be late.."Love you maa!

Okay beta, good luck for today.

Oh Beta! Be careful and be home on time ha! I saw the news today that pickpocket etc have increased be careful.."

Yes Yes maa dont worry! tension na lo okay? i know you have work too....so ill see you tonight maa...love you!

Suman was looking forward to today, the sun was shining bright as ever, gleaming its sun rays down as if to say things will brighten up now. Last five years hadn't been easy for them. They had moved to a much smaller place in Mumbai and things were not cheap. For now they were fine, it was perfect for her and her mother and if she lands this job and the opportunity to pursue law, she would be able to spread her wings even more and provide better for her mother.

Suman called up a taxi as she crossed the road, just in the nick of time she thought to herself. "Bhaiya Maholtra lawfirm chalo",

Providing the instruction to the driver, they got to the venue of her interview within 25 minute mark, which was a surprise consideration of the Mumbai traffic. Paying the driver, she hurried off the car.

The glass building stood in front of her was huge. One of the top law firms. Everyone seemed suited and booted. Suman quickly did the final checks, fixing her hair, her suits before walking through the glass door. As she walked in she could feel the waft of the cool AC. The lobby floor was marbelled with polished desk and very smart ladies at the desk with perfect manicured nails. Her appointment for the interview was at 9:30. She still had a bit of time in her hands prior to her being called in, maybe she could wait for a bit. Deciding to go in fifteen minutes prior, she decided to just explore around. The place was massive with possibly fifteen floors, all glass. The lobby was very neat with indoor plants and the floor was marbelled. The mahlotra law firm, this was it, her dream.

"Madame do you need anything" A lady approached her as she was looking around.

"Oh no, I was just here for my interview, seeing that i am slightly early I was just looking around"

"Oh for the 9:30am one with Mr Maholtra yes yes. Would you like to sign in the interview sheet?"

"Yes sure" A suman put her name down in the interview sheet, she noticed someone she did not want to see...It was Sharavan...

What was he doing here? Why was he here? Wait, was he here for the interview too? Or wait, did he own the company? No, cannot be..there are lots of Malhotras, cannot be him...Thoughts crossed her mind...

"Maam? You finish...If you have, please take a seat and we shall call you once sir is ready.

"Oh yes, thank you".

Sharavan, yes that was him, he was here but why? Sharavan was dressed in a black and white striped suit, hair combed back, he looked very sharp and sophisticated. Man he looked so good! but what was he doing here? Out of all the places...she thought he was in the states...Thoughts lingered in her brain...but this was not the right time...she'd have to figure it out later.

"Maam? I believe its Umm Suman right?"

"Yes that's me.."

"Maam mr Maholtra would like to see you now.."

"Sure."

Maa'm please follow me, we are headed to the 14th floor where Mr Malhotra is.

This was it, her moment....she took the lift as she thanked the lady at the desk...doors closing behind...butterflies churned her stomach...

Reaching the 14th floor, which seemed like the longest journey ever, she looked around. The lobby was simple but neat with a large sofa and magazines on the table...and surrounded by plants...The two double doors possibly lead to the office..

The girl (neeta as her badge name suggests, knocked on the door...Mr Malhotra the candidate is here"

"Maam you may go in"

As she thanked the girl, Suman walked into the office....and there he was Sharvan...that means he was the owner of the place...No way was this happening not him.. She wanted to run away but this would be highly unprofessional and she was here for an interview...She could not bring in what happened between them here....

"Okay Miss Tiwari, please take a seat" I am Shravan Malhotra, the CEO of this law-firm. Nice to meet you,

Wow, this guy was acting like he did not know her...Fine by her if he wanted to keep it that way. Fine by her if he wanted to act as strangers...But that cut her deep for some reason... She was meant to hate on him and here he would just be her boss and nothing else...but why did it hurt now?

"Miss Tiwari?" Oh sorry sir, Yes nice to meet you, I''m Suman and Thank you.

Would you like something to drink? asked Sharavan..

No thank you I'm fine...

Okay Suman, we shall begin then...so tell me Suman... what made you apply to this role? Why our company and what are your goals?

Suman was shaking from the inside but had to maintain her calmness.

"Sir The reason for me wanting to apply to his role is because there are many opportunities which will allow me growth as person, the role itself would allow me to explore on varied cases which would be a good learning curve for me. I genuinely enjoy challenges and am adaptable towards any sort of environment",

Sharavan stared at Suman as she answered questions confidently. There she was in full glory, she was independent and hardworking. Aside that she looked stunning with her long flowing hair and the suit and blouse, it was perfect for her. How he had missed seeing that face....That moment he felt like he could take her into her arms...but times were different...his heart was torn and this was solely business...The reason for him to hire...The moment he had seen her CV, it had garnered his attention , it was her ability alone to thrive that had gained his attention....She had potential for sure. She would be perfect and this was just an employee perspective.

Suman wanted to get up and run but she couldn't. It was as if she had been tied to the chair or something. It was virtually impossible...she was stuck...

"Well Suman, I do see the potential in you to become a great lawyer and this will be your first step. I was impressed by your CV and admire your determination. Congratulations and Welcome to Mahlotra and Co Law firm. Yes I am offering you the opportunity and wish you all the best here." Your contract will be forwarded to you along with the details should you approve by the end of play by Neethu the HR manager.

Suman was dumbfounded. She did not know whether to jump with joy with the fact that she had a stepping stone or cry...She had been accepted but at the place owned by the person she did not really want to see...Neither could she afford to let it go as they had been struggling in terms of rent. Her mom did teach some coloney kids tuition and obtained some cash and also worked as a part time teacher but it wasn't enough and it was too hard for her...Her father's savings had practically been used for rent and was nearly running out...This job would mean everything...

"Thank you sir for the opportunity and I look forward to working here too".

Saying that, Suman quickly collected her bags and her coat and walked out... Suman decided today that she would wonder about for a bit before heading home... The sun was still shining bright and she just wanted to get some fresh air...Well process her mind....and everything from what just happened. It was 13:00 and her mom would not be home now...she probably be at work today...

Deciding to surprise her, she decided to cook her mom's favourite meal..saying so. she headed to the food store to gather the required items...Her mom loved Aloo gobi and also aloo ka paratha with ghee and for desert she was thinking to bake her fav triple layer chocolate cheese cake...It would be a lovely mother daughter moment...As she wondered around the store, looking for goods, she felt as if someone was following her...turning around she did not see anyone..that was strange she wondered...was someone following her? Probably not....As she wondered from isle to isle picking up what she needed, she felt the sensation of someone following her again...but it didnt feel like creep type...she could hear giggles of girls...As she turned, she saw her three best friends going boo! That scared the daylight out of her. It was Pallavi, Komolika and Devika...Her childhood friends.

" Waah! You gurls omg...when did you get back! And how dare you scare me like that! I thought someone was following..." Suman said as she calmed her nerves down...

"Did not mean to scare you but we saw you enter the store here...thought we would surprise you, said all three in Union.." It was Komo's idea by the way...she does have the sharp eagle eye..

"Oh c'mon guys! it wasnt even me this time..it was Devika..."

Whatever! eye rolled Suman...You lot are terrible...Suman pretended to be annoyed...

C'mon sumo, we meant no harm darling...forgive us..

"Sure on one condition though, you'll have to help me make dinner...i want to make it special for mom tonight". She done a lot for me and I want to treat her today..."

Treat her? why said Komo...

I got a job at the Malhotra firms as a lawyer...its a start but its something new...

"Sure let's go...waise bhi aise bahane se aunty se bhi milenge, kyun ladkiyo? Pallavi stated with excitement,

Yes sure! right mission cooking and having a good night...lets go...! and pay for these first...chaloo..giggling and laughing they left the area and homeward.

Wow nice apartment gurl! its cute and actually perfect for you and aunty, said Pallavi...

Yeah, but I am hoping to move elsewhere somewhere bigger you know so mom would be able to be free from her works and do what she likes...gardening, reading and all that instead of running here and there...I want her to relax now...

Right let's get started girls! Pallavi, can you wash and peel them potato, Komo, your on cutting duty and Devu, could you mix some aatta for me? Will appreciate it..

Sure! they all said in Union..

As they each concentrated on their task, they spent time talking of random things and catching up. They mentioned about Devu and her fiance and all...and they caught up with old school life....and soon hour passed before meal as ready and they begun setting the table...

As sumo set the dishes down, Devo asked her about the company again...why was she curious for?

Oh Sumo btw the place you are going to start, the malhotra companies, is it owned by Sharavan?

Wait how do you know Devu?" I didnt know you were in touch...

No No Sumo..just asking as the name seemed familiar. i have not been in touch with Sharavan if thats whom you mean...

Devika was hesistant...she had been in touch and suman knew it...something was up.. and she would find out...Devika was someone who used to and still seemed to fancy Sharvan...something was going on...Devika's family were rich enough and they had quite the reputation...and recently infact there were news spreading about Devika;s fiance or more like would be fiance..Was it Shravan?....Was it? cannot be right?? But why did she care...It was non of her business...then why was she affected?

Devu you need not be hesistant, you can say so...I did see articles...we are best friends after all..

Yes that's right..C'mon tell us...devu...!

After much insistence from Pallavi and Komo, Devu finally spilled the beans..She mentioned about how important it was for her family especially to help with the business and how her family was practically forcing her into this.. and that the guy indeed was Shravan...

The girls stared at her in shock....as Sumo digested those words...She didnt know what to say and she didnt know why she was affected after all these years....As she gathered her thoughts, the door bell rang, Must be her mother...This would be perfect surprise to tell her mom that she landed the position. For now she would keep the Sharavan thing a secret....for now she would let it be...

Gathering her strength and coming back to her sense, Sumo opened the door...only to find a police man standing there.......What was going on?

Index:

Chapter 1: Page 1

Chapter 2: page 1

Chapter 3: Page 2

---------------

To be continued:

Chapter 2:Alone without you:

Suman gathered enough strength and wiped off her now falling tears which she didn't understand why to open the door. There stood an inspector but why?

Yes Inspector, how may I help you?

You must be Ms Tiwari. I am inspector Yadav from Mumbai police branch and this is my constable Anish.

“Hi Suman”

“Anish? Hi…What is happening”?

"What's going on Sumo? Shouted the girls. as they rushed towards the door..." Erm Hi Anish…and inspector, what’s happened.

"You are?

Sorry we are Sumo I mean Suman Tiwari’s friends...we were just having a mini get together and catch up.... but what happen?"

"That's okay...We are not certain for this matter but around 5:30pm, there was an accident around Bandra west area of Mumbai a woman had a run in with a car ...This ID card was found next to the body, which had Mrs Pallavi Tiwari’s name. We found her ID card next to what seemed to be her body...We need Ms Suman to come to the station to identify the body. We are not sure though as the body was pretty badly damaged. It may have been stolen ID…anything. We need you to come with us.

"What are you saying inspector? What nonsense is this? Suman screamed as tears streamed down her face...No way in hell was this happening...First her father now her mother too? What was she going to do...?This cannot be real...No way...It must be a nightmare yes...a bloody nightmare...She must be sleeping...she needs to wake up...She begun slapping herself whaling her eyes out, hoping this was a nightmare...trying to wake up from this nightmare...But it was not working...this horror...No way...

Why me? Why? Suman wailed...She was now torn...

Her friends rushed to her side trying to offer some sort of comfort but it was not helping...She was inconsolable...Her mother had been her world, her everything and she was gone? Gods couldn't be this cruel right? This could not be happening to her.

"Sumo, don’t worry, don’t cry...we do not know if it’s her...I hope it’s not." Said Pallavi trying to calm her down.

Yes, Pallu is right, let’s not jump to conclusion here...I know it’s not easy and very hard but we got to do this...We will come with you...C'mon Sumo lets go...

Inspector, we will be down in couple minutes...5 minutes later, they were on their way to the station.

Half and hour later they arrived at the station. The half and hour Journey had felt like a century. A moment she wished she could erase off her mind. Suman was still in daze, shocked mode as she walked into the police station following the inspector. Anish was with them; Anish was their friend from school too but they did not know he was working at the station.

“Don’t worry, we do hope its not Anjali aunty” Come,let’s go in.

Along with the three girls by her side and Anish,they walked into the morgue which was dimly lit and cold. An eerie feeling passed through Suman as they entered the room, which was perfect feel for the morgue.

Inspector Yadav quietly walked towards a dead body,slowly lifting the white sheet off.

Suman stared in horror as she stared at the body. It took her every ounce of control to not cry out and scream out loud. Tear trickled down her face as the reality hit her. This cannot be true, the weight and the truth of it was too much for her to fathom. Her heart felt heavy as if someone had placed a weight on her. Her surrounding suddenly felt dark as if she was falling into the pit, just like an abyss.

“Ms Tiwari, I understand this is difficult for you,I can only imagine how you must be feeling right now but we need you to answer some questions for us. Please we really require your co-operation in this to identify the person who did this”. We just need you to answer some generic questions. I hope you understand.” I understand if you want to take your time, by all means do so but we do need you back here when you are ready please”.

“Inspector, I know you are only doing your duty and it is vital that the person who did this to my mother gets punished too.” I can answer the questions now.”

“Sumo are you sure you’ll be okay?” Would you like me to call up on Kanchan chachi and chacha?

“No don’t call them and your asking me if I am okay?Do I look okay to you?” I have lost everything Devika, everything and your asking if I am okay?!” No need to call them…They do not like Maa and me anyway….

“Sumo I was just asking if you were ready. “I am sorry i f I hurt your feeling”

“No Devika, I didn’t mean to scream at you, its just that I am…never mind I am sorry.”

“Where are Komolika and Pallavi?”

“They are outside waiting”.

“Ms Tiwari, would you like to get the questions over with now or?”

No Ill do it now, let’s go.

After what seemed like an hour of back and forth questions,Suman was finally out. Out but with an empty hole in her heart. The questions were generic though like when was the last time she spoke to her mother, where she worked and if she suspected anyone who would do that. She could not think of anyone…

Her family well her grandparents and her Chachi and all didn’t like them but they would not go that far.

To Suman her mother had been her world and now that was ripped from her. It had just been her and her mother after the demise of their father. The family had cut ties with them blaming them for the incident that occurred nearly five years back, blaming them for the decisions that they made, leading to the demise…But then were they really at fault? What was it,she did not know.Her mind was a blank hole now.

But she would not give in, this was her battle now,and justice would be served to her mother. But who would approach the case and who done this?

Sorry, Inspector do you have the car number or anything oft he person who done this? Maybe I can help you with something if I know the car number.

“Yes Ms Tiwari, its BS45 CBU”.

That car number, the same car, she had noticed it parked outside the law centre, but who did it belong to? The car had been a nice BMW. A nice family type car. I recognise the number inspector. At first, I didn’t pay much attention but as I was walking out from not. Malhotra law firms,I noticed the car and this was around mid-afternoon.

“Thank you, Ms Tiwari, for your assistance”. We will track down the car and let you know. By the way Malhotra law firms? What were you doing there?”

“I just had an interview; I was on my way to finally practice law”.

“Oh okay, thank you Ms Tiwari, we will keep you informed.

With that, Suman headed to her empty house. Her friends had said they could stay behind but she led them out saying that she needed the time to cope herself. She needed the time to let it all out. As she looked around memories gripped her of herself and her mother, the moments they spent in this flat. The food on the table was now cold and she did not have any desire to consume anything. She would have to whether she liked her not, ring her relatives again but not yet…She needed to get things straight…she needed to get to work. Inspector had said that they would carry out the necessary postpartum examination and let her know further. For now, she snuggled into a ball, her mind drifting back and forth to a much happier moment in her life…wishing she could press the reset button again.

5 Years go (Past)

Thunder storm crashed the sky as dark clouds begin forming and heavy wind blows. There was a storm coming. Suman and Sharvan were both getting snuggled together under the blanket by the fire, watching their favourite movie DDLJ.

Both their parents had gone out tonight, Her parents to their relative’s engagement or something, Suman had not want to go as she had as light headache and Shravan’s parents well, they were busy attending the party of some office colleague’s daughter’s birthday which Sharvan had zero interest towards it, so he apparently had made up some lame excuse before sneaking out. Sharvan’s father was well reputed lawyer and had a reputation to live up. Suman’s parents, well her dad was an officer while her mother was a teacher. They were not well off like Sharvan’s parents but they were happy. To both their parents, they did not know about the two of them liking each other. Often though both parties got along well, status often tugged along the way and they had yet to disclose yet. For now, it would have to be like this, they would eventually disclose that they (Suman and Sharvan liked each other), possibly after Sharvan’s birthday which was coming soon! For now,though,there secret would remain and well these moments of quality time would be a special opportunity for them to have spend some quality time together. Outside they could hear the rain pouring pretty heavily and both were getting cosy snuggling enjoying their moment.

Just then as they were getting halfway to the episode,they heard a knock on the door. Pausing the TV, Sharvan headed down.

“Sharvan, Open the door” Hey Sharvan, bud!”

“Who is it at this hour Shravan?

“Don’t know, let me check”. I don’t think it would be our parents though as its raining and they must still be at the venue.

Shravan peaked through the little peep hole.

“Suman, it’s the gang, Komolika Pallavi and Devika followed by Mr Anish”. Wonder what they are doing here now.

“Why have these guys come now, we were having our moment,Sighed Suman”.

“Oh, were we now? Sharvan teased, nearing her and going for a peck on the cheeks”. Do you want to get cosy and let them be?Teased Shravan.

“Shut up Shravan, Sumo said as she found herself badly blushing.

Shravan opened the door and in walked in the four of them.

“What took you so long Shravan? We were meant to hang out tonight? Remember? Anish said annoyedly”.

“Oh that, I thought it was tomorrow, I forgot, today I was just….distracted”

Just then Suman came down.

Oh, we see it now Sharvan. We see how it is Sharvan and Suman huh? We should have known.

“Oh, Shut up Anish, its not like that”

“By the way what are you guys doing here at this hour”? Sharvan said feeling slightly annoyed that their special moment was ruined by their friends bargaining in.

“Well Sharvan we thought we could have a fun get together night amongst all friends here, Devika stated”and we have not seen each other in so long. Plus technically speaking its not that late! And we thought uncle and aunty would be home too, so we thought since its technically Friday, we could have some friend and family moment.

“Yeah, that was it and also we missed you guys”, but seems like you guys are busy, we can leave, it’s fine”. Anish mentioned.

“No, it’s okay, you guys can stay”, Suman stated as Sharvan glared at her trying to signal to let them leave, it would be fine, but Suman felt bad.

“No Suman, it is okay, we can do the get together next time said Pallavi”.

“That’s right Pallavi! Sorry guys but not happening today”.Sharvan stated.

“But Shravan, its like thundering outside na, we cannot let them go out in this weather and they have come all the way here”.

“No Sumo, don’t worry we will be fine”. Komolika inserted.You guys can have your moment 😊 We will get going.

“Yes, they said that they will be fine so don’t worry”Sharvan stated hoping that Suman would understand.Yes, it was raining but the roads around were not that bad and there were no strong winds now.

“All-right then, we shall take a leave, Devika, Komo, let’s go and Anish!”

“But what about all this stuff we got?” Devika whined,being hesitant.

Oh, C’mon Devika, let’s go! Don’t worry about that,we can go to my house and have our party there, let’s go now c’mon.

“But I got all of Sharvan’s favourite food and also a bunch of snacks so how can we go?” Plus, it’s raining.

Komolika now stepped in as Devika was not getting the point. “Don’t worry about the rain Devika and if you are truly worried about the food, like Pallavi said we can have it na, so no worries and since you also got Sharvan some food, why not leave it here?” Okay now let’s go.

After a load of persuasion, Devika finally agreed to leave. She practically had to be dragged off by Komolika and Pallavi while Anish himself looked annoyed as hell. Devika buckled up in her new BMW still annoyed.

Pallavi and Komo and Anish said their good-bye as Shravan walked in and as Sharvan closed the door, he noticed an-annoyed Suman standing in front of him.

“What is it now Suman?”Shravan said innocently.

“Nothing! How can you let them go out in the rain?”Suman glared.

“Oh, c’mon Suman, a tiny bit of rain is not going to do anything to them okay? And they said they will call once they get to Pallavi’s place”.

Okay now, don’t be annoyed and let’s get back to what we were doing? Shall we baby? Sharvan said with a smirk.

“Oh, Sharvan please” Sumo tried to sound annoyed but she found herself blushing red, which was obvious.

“Oh Sumo, blushing hmm?” Teased Sharvan.

Just then he received a text stating that the friends had reached Pallavi’s place safely.

Suman was relived to hear that.

Okay Sumo, want to get something to eat? I can heat up the food that the guys bought, since they left some here.

“Sure, why not”.

A few minutes later Sharvan appeared with the food,cheese Alfredo, with prawns and garlic bread and a side salad. Something she loved too.

They enjoyed the food while watching the series and just having the moment to themselves.

About an hour or so had passed now and it was getting late.

Outside, it still was raining pretty heavy but no winds or anything. Sharvan had left after Suman insisting that she would be fine about 15-20 minutes ago as his parents were due to return from the event.He had insisted on staying but Sumo did not want to make uncle and aunty worry…. She had asked him to call or text when he got home too. Outside looked pitch black,looked like lights were off again and now wind whooshing and howling could be heard with lamp post almost swaying back and forth. What was going on? Hope her parents get home safe and home Sharvan’s fine…Wish she had asked him to stay…they could have made an excuse but she let him go…What was she thinking. Oh, dear god!

There were no signs of her parents either, they should have returned by now. She had called her mother couple of times but no answer,nothing from her father either. Neither had she had any response from Sharvan.

-Sharvan on the road:

As Sharvan walked out of Suman’s house, he could feel the strong winds and the rain was badly pouring down. He quickly got into his car and started to drive. It was about a 20-minute drive from his house to Suman’s but right now it felt longer, as the lights along the road seemed to be off and the wind and the rain wasn’t making it any easier for him. The traffic was fairly light but the vision of it was pretty blur with wind splashing.Maybe he should have stayed at Suman’s for a bit but she was insisting that his parents might worry. But when he had left, despite of the rain, there was no winds or hail storms. Right now, it was like a tornado sweeping in. He had to stop,driving in the winds would not be possible, he might have to make a turn,heading back to Suman’s. May be not. Maybe he could drive slowly or maybe he could drive back.

Slowly turning his car, he decided to head back to Suman’s he had not driven that far off anyway and he was certain that Suman’s parents would understand. He put his visionary light on and started to drive very slowly. Just then as he was driving, he noticed a BMW (which looked very familiar) coming towards him,blaring loud music and its lights were bright, too bright in fact it almost blinded him, it looked as if like the driver did not care and the driver seemed drunk. But as Sharvan was about to let the car to past, he noticed the two couples about to cross the road, his car unfortunately losing balance (due to the heavy wind and rain/hail storm), hit one of the two people and he himself crashed onto a pole, losing his sense. All he last witnessed was the BMW zooming off.

Suman’s house: 10:30 PM

Her parents were still not home, it had been hours and Suman had made several calls. She had even spoken to her relative who mentioned that they had left the venue ages ago. She tried calling Sharvan but he was not answering either. She kept trying…Finally! Her mother seemed to answer.

“Hello maa, where are you, I tried to call you so many times! Why are you not answering your phone?”

“Hi Sorry, I am inspector Yadav here, calling from an accident site”. There was a bad accident just up the road from Bandra west, who’s speaking please?”

“Hello sorry? What are you saying? This is Suman, the phone belongs to my mother”. Why do you have her phone?”

“Hi Suman, I said I am inspector Yadav and there has been a massive accident. We have three injured people and this phone was found next to one of the injured patients.”

“What accident? Where? Suman almost lost her senses as the words ran into her. An accident? Who was hurt?Where were her parents?

Maintaining her composure and not jumping to any conclusion,she asked where it was and where were her parents, the inspector mentioned that they had been taken to the hospital, the Kokilaben hospital.

Hospital(Past Midnight hour)

Suman in one whim rushed over to the hospital.Patience were flooding in as the winds and the weather had caused many such incident. As she neared the reception, she enquired about her parents who directed her to the ICU. Rushing towards the ICU, she saw her dad conscious.

"Father? Hello Father, you stay strong ha, you have to for maa and me.

Tears were streaming on her cheeks.

"Miss, we need to check on your father, could you please step aside?"

Sure...doctor ill be back, please call me if you need. She had to find her mother too.

As she was rushing over to the reception to ask where her mother might be, she noticed Shravan with his head bandaged speaking to the police officer. It looked like he was giving some statement. The police thanked him and left. Her relief at last, her salvation. She ran towards him tears gleaming in her eyes. He was with his parents but she did not care.

She needed him now, this moment.

"Shravan!

Sharvan turned to see Suman running towards him with tears in her eyes.

"Shravan, You okay? You hurt badly?"

"No I am fine, I am okay don't worry" I am fine. Sharvan Sumo, I am okay. Sharvan said as he hugged her into a tight embrace.

"What happened here? You left then I got a call saying Mom and dad had an accident". Suman said crying her eyes out.

"Yeah I bought them Here."

"Come I will take you to maa."

Oh uncle aunty, namaste, I did not see you.

"No worries beta said Mrs and Mr Malhotra. Please let us know if you need anything."

Suman said a quiet thank you before walking hand in hand with Sharvan.

Heading towards the general ward, she saw her mom sleeping.

"Suman you go in, Ill join you later ha, spend some time with your mom" Ill be here for you.

"Sure" and with a hug Shravan walked away.

"Hey Maa, you okay na? I know you are strong" Suman took her hand and held it gently.

Her Maa opened her eyes in a daze finally.

"I am fine beta, I am okay. Don't worry".

"Mom you need to recover quick right!" You are my super mom.

Sharvan watched them have their moment. Moment of guilt passed through him. Suman would never forgive him if she found out the truth of how the incident happened. He felt dazed as he walked then everything went blank. His parents rushed toward him but all he could hear was muffled noises.

Meanwhile back at the ward:

"Beta, where is father?"

Mom he is in the ICU, I was told he is in ICU but you got shifted to general ward. I am relived about that. I know dad will be fine too Maa, don't worry.

Let me see if the doctor has finished checking on him okay? Ill be back.

Just then her relatives, aunt and uncles and grandparents arrived too, whom Suman had called on her way to the hospital.

"Beta, we came as soon as we got your message,where is your father?"

"Uncle, he is in ICU still unconscious.

"Oh no dear no! Have they said anything about him gaining consciousness?

"No dadi.

"Dadi don't worry, He will be fine",

I hope so beta, I really do that he will be fine.

"Oh god, please hope he will be okay"prayed dada dadi.

By the way, where is your mother? How is she?

"Maa is out of danger, she is shifted to the general ward. I just wanted to check on Dad". Ill be going to receive her in a bit and bring her here.

"Okay, we just hope that nothing goes wrong."

Just then the doctor came out, the same doctor who had been checking on her father.

"Hello Miss Suman?"

"Yes Doctor, how is father"?

Unfortunately he did hit his head badly, which may have caused internal injuries/bleeding which means we will need to operate him right away". We need you to sign the consent form and pay the fee at the desk please...This is urgent.

"Yes doctor, I will take care of the money,please carry on the operation". Suman rushed forward to carry out the necessary payment and signed the consent form on behalf of her mother. It was urgent and actions had to be taken.

As the operation went on fear loomed over Suman. Time ticked by and she felt her heart pound.

Two and half hours roughly later the doctor came out of the surgery. As Suman watched him come out of the operation theatre, her heart was pounding, her head loomed with nightmare.

"Hi Doctor, how is father?" Tell me how is he? He made it right?

"I am sorry Suman, we were not able to save him, he had too much internal bleeding and lost too much blood, we were notable to save him", I am sorry."

A blankness formed around Suman as she tried to fathom the heaviness of the news that was just given to her. It almost felt like her whole entire world was turning upside down. Everything coming to a close end. This could not be happening not now.

"Suman beta, what did the doctor say just now,tugged her dadi"? Suman beta? Her chachi called her.

"Suman? Suman beta?" Say something, what did the doctor say? Why are they not bringing your father out...

Suman stared into the blankness. What was she to say? Words would not come out of her mouth as tears fell down her cheeks followed by a loud scream. What was she going to say to her mother? To her family?

"Suman, what did the doctor say?" By now even her mother was there. She did not know when she even got there, she was in a wheel chair...

Suman approached her mother with tears streaming down her face. "Mom the doctor said that father is never going to wake up". Mom what do we do now? Mom?

Her mother was speechless, no expressive words as she went into a state of shock. Unable to speak.

Her dadi and everyone begun to cry, balling out. Suman herself was shattered. Her mother went into a state of shock.

She needed to get out for a bit, she felt suffocated, she felt like someone had punched her. This was a nightmare.

"Chachi, could you stay with Mom for a bit? I will be back." I just need to get some fresh air, sorry.

"Sure beta, come quick, Ill be with her". Don't worry. I know and understand.

And with that, she walked off.

Suman walked towards where Shravan was, who was now laying in the general ward hospital bed. Sitting beside him, she stared at his face. He was sleeping. Staring at him, she wondered if he would really be the one to do it. He looked so angelic when sleeping, almost childlike. He was her savoir.

Sharvan woke up with start as the nightmare of the incident consumed him. He woke up with a start as he felt the warmth of Suman's hand. Earlier on he had fainted due to extreme stress and anxiety. His parents had left a while ago to just get changed after getting told Sharvan was fine and nothing to worry about.

Suman who sat looking at him looked like she had been balling.

"Sumo baby, what's wrong. how is aunty and uncle?"

Sumo fumbled with her words as tears rolled down her face.

Finally she spoke, "Dad did not make it Sharvan he didn't". What do I do now?

Sharvan felt as if someone punched him in the face.

He had to tell her the truth, he could not let let this slide like this.

She had to know the truth and whatever the outcome, it would depend on Suman to really forgive him or not.

"Sumo I need to tell you something" I need to speak to you about the accident."

"Shravaaan! Devika could be heard screaming from the corridor. Are you okay? Are you hurt?

"I am fine Devika, could you give us a moment please?"

But Sharvan!

Please Devika. I need to speak to Suman.

He needed to gather enough strength to tell her the truth.

"Right Suman, I needed to tell you something"

" Sharvan I understand but please can we do this later?" I need you now with me. Shravan.

Suman was hysterical. Maybe it would not be the right time to tell her. Maybe he would need to wait.

Few days later: Suman's house:

The final rituals of her father had taken place. The house felt empty. Her Dadi and Chachu everyone had left. The last few days to Suman was a blur.

Her mother had taken a while to come to her sense, she was inconsolable as the truth of it sank into her. So much had happened.

Just as she was lost in her thoughts, Sharvan came in to the door.

"Hey Sharvan!

Hi Suman! Can I talk to you please? I wanted to talk to you at the hospital but situation was not right" Its about the accident.

By the where is aunty and how is she?

"Mom's resting, she has not been the same. She is torn, its a lot to process.

"I understand." Shravan said as other wave of guilt passed through him.

Yes Shravan what is it you wanted to say?

Suman that accident, the night, that ungrateful night after I left your house, that night, the person who hit your parents, it was me.

Suman felt the air knocked of her stomach, it was as if someone had punched her in the gut.

"What did you say Sharvan?" You done it? Its not true right? Your talking bullshit.

"No Sumo, How I wish I was"...How I wish I could undo it but I did it...

Shravan narrated her the whole story about the car and all but to her the damage was done. The person whom she had relied on and given her heart to had taken her life away. Her heart was now empty.

"What did you do SHRAVAN MALHOTRA!

Suman's mom was standing behind listening to everything. I heard it all. How can you do this? How can you? You are a murderer. Get out of my sight! YOU WILL PAY FOR THIS! She screamed.

"Mom, go in please, Mom, let me handle this, Mom No!"

"Get out Shravan before I call the cops I do not want to see your face again. This is not over, get lost. You are dead to me now.." You mean nothing to me you murderer...! Get out shouted Suman.

And with that everything came tumbling down. Shravan was shattered, he was finished. He had hoped she would not say those words but she had. She had killed him.

Present time:

Remembering that moment gave Suman the chills. The person who she had given everything to had crushed her heart, taken everything from her. Even after five years, the memories were still fresh in her mind.

Now she had met him again...and now she would take him down as the lawyer. This had been her mission. Working side by side him she would destroy him.

She would also find the culprit who hit her mother...She would do it again..All over again.

Back at the office:

Shravan sat on his desk recalling those memories that still haunted him to this day. The same incident, he dreamt of it every night. The same nightmare. Even after five years nothing had changed.

Suman was back in his life, well office and he knew her, knew that she would not stop. She was here by the looks of it on purpose.

This time Shravan would try to win her back..This time he would prove his innocence.

TBC soon!