Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi FAN FICTION chapter7 pg6 - Page 4

Very nice chapter!!

Chapter 4

Suman~ "How about you show your teacher and the girl that you can be a better team partner?

Sahil Manan and Ranveer looked at Suman who said something on the issue only when they were about to reach the school.

Sahil~ "My dear sister, care to elaborate how I could do that without having to say something to them myself? he said with a twinkle in his eyes.

Suman~ "During practice you just have to pass by them... try and help the girl's partner with their tune assignment. I'm sure your teacher watch you all during practice. Just don't over-do it all or they will think you are showing off. If they see that you genuinely are trying to help, your teacher and that girl would want you to be teamed up together.

Sahil~ "That might work. If you had this idea then why didn't you say something before?

Suman~ "To make it clear that I want to help, not show off. She smiles.

Ranveer~ "Because she is the smartest of us three. He smiles as well.

Manan~ "Or maybe she just speaks girls... you know, because she is also a girl. He jokes about it.

Sahil~ "Either way, I'm going to try her idea. Play it nice and cool.

Ranveer~ "You are cool Sahil bhai, whether anyone else sees it or not. Don't act, be yourself.

Sahil~ "Thanks Ranveer... and Suman too.

Their car comes to a stop as they finally arrive at the school. The kids got off the car and headed to their respective classes. Sahil allows Suman's idea run in his head planning on how he could convince his teacher and the girl without making it look like a show off. Manan gets called by his class buddies and mischief gang who have some more plans for today's mischiefs. Ranveer and Suman head towards their class.

Ranveer~ "Suman... I wanted to speak with you about last night but didn't get a chance yet.

Suman~ "Ranveer... I... that dream... she didn't knew what to say.

Ranveer~ "You don't have to say anything. All I want to say is that your secret is safe with me. You can always come to me whenever you wish to speak to me about your nightmare... or anything that bothers you. Okay?

Suman looked at Ranveer then nodded.

Ranveer~ "Come on or we will be late for class. He said as he increased his pace to reach the class.

Suman did the same. They ran the last few steps of the stairs to get to their class. The classes started and all kids settled down in their respective class. When the music class arrived as per the time table, Sahil looked for that girl and her team mate. Today, both of them didn't showed up. Sahil became sad to realise that she didn't come. Even the teacher was running late to come to the class. Sahil was sitting in his place when few other kids in the class started complaining about not being able to play their assignment tunes right. Sahil offered to help which they took it.

Sahil showed them that sometimes the notes could have mistakes in them and sometimes it's the instrument's tuning no done right. He showed them by tuning his guitar for one of the tunes. When he played the notes, one of the chords didn't sounded right. Thus Sahil had to try other chords to hit the right sound. For him, that chord needed a slight different note combination to sound right with the tune. Sahil didn't realise that while he was explaining, the teacher saw him from the door.

Sahil~ "Oh! I'm sorry sir. I didn't... I was just... he feared that he had upset his teacher.

The teacher asked everyone to practice their notes and signalled Sahil to follow. Sahil quietly followed behind his teacher to his room. Teacher took his seat at the table and showed a seat to Sahil to sit as well.

Teacher~ "It's alright Sahil, you did good. Music is an art that grows with sharing. I may act tough but I would rather have discipline in my class than students wasting time. What you did today is you helped your friends understand the musical notes. Not many of my students understands the basics. Have you learned from someone before?

Sahil~ "No sir. I have a guitar at home that I love to try on how different notes form when I play with the strings. I searched up on internet and played some songs that I like. But I have never taken proper guitar lessons.

Teacher~ "How would you like to take proper private lessons?

Sahil~ "Proper private lessons?

Teacher~ "You show some natural talent my boy. If you like I can help you nurture your talent. In turn you can help your classmates during class. It seems you can communicate better with your classmates and it will be easier to guide them through you. What do you think?

Sahil had no clue what to do, so he agreed anyway. "Ok sir, whatever you think is right.

Teacher smiled "No my son, not whatever I see right... it should come from you that you want to learn or no? It must be your own decision and not something influenced by someone else or you will lose your interest at some point.

Sahil allowed himself to think for a moment "I do love music, it is not influenced by some girl. If I can have a great teacher to improve my talent, then why not? I cannot find a better teacher than him in the whole city. Sahil then replied "Yes sir, I would love to learn from you. His voice had a determination and excitement for learning.

Teacher~ "Very good. I will speak with your parents about it. Now you may return to the class.

Sahil~ "Thank you sir. And he took his leave to go back to the class.

As he walked towards the class, Sahil thought to himself "Suman's advice was right... I only need to be myself. Even the teacher is happy with me. I don't know why I wanted to use it as a way to get close to that girl? I love music and it is my passion. I promise myself I will never use my music to show off to anyone and always remain true to myself.

Thinking he can now learn more music for himself, empowered his spirit. His rest of the day, he kept planning what he wants to do with this new opportunity he is getting.

Ranveer Suman submitted their project with the rest of their classmates. As always Ranveer Suman team aced in this project as well. Their science teacher called them to speak with them.

Teacher~ "Ranveer, Suman... Learning is not just about knowledge, you know that right?

Ranveer~ "Yes ma'am.

Teacher~ "It is also to learn how to work with people you know and sometimes with people you may not know... or even the ones you don't get along with. Keeping that in mind, I will need you two to team up with someone else for the next project.

Ranveer~ "But... but ma'am... it's... the only reason I insist on teaming up with Suman is because we live in same house, which also means that we can easily find time to work together on the projects. It might not always be comfortable for our friends to come to our house everyday so we can work on the projects. We have other subjects to study, projects and assignments to work on...

Teacher~ "I'm not saying that you don't have other subjects and their assignments. But you have to learn to work with other people as well.

Ranveer~ "We do work with our classmates ma'am.

Teacher~ "I know that Ranveer. But it might not be enough. You both are brilliant students and paring you two with a weak student might help them understand better. I have the responsibility to help all my students, Ranveer.

Ranveer~ "We can help them in group study, doesn't necessarily need us to team up for projects though. This way they can catch up with their studies without making us risk our performance. He suggested.

Suman~ "I think I agree with Ranveer ma'am. Whatever any of our friends find difficulty with... they can study those chapters with me or Ranveer or anyone else in our class who is good in that chapter. We can all help each other without affecting the performance of the good students.

Teacher~ "Fine then. You will all be assigned a study partner after every test that will help each other understand the topics better. But... if this doesn't help improve the overall class performance, then I will do what I think is right for all my students.

Ranveer~ "Ok ma'am. Thank you. He said as he started to leave.

Teacher~ "I haven't allowed you to leave yet.

Ranveer stopped right there and turned around "Sorry ma'am. Is there anything else?

Teacher~ "Suman, you can return to the class. Ranveer will join you in a short moment.

Suman thanked ma'am and left. Once Suman was out of earshot, the teacher spoke to Ranveer.

Teacher~ "Ranveer... I have heard about you and your brothers. I understand you are all protective of your sister but she will have to work with other people in the future. You cannot always be there with her. So... I do not need any complaints from anyone when Suman is assigned a study partner. I hope I made my point clear.

Ranveer looked at the teacher for a moment before assuring her that there will be no complaint. Then the two returned to the class. As teacher has hinted, she assigned study partners for all students, pairing them in a way to help improve all the weak students.

Teacher~ "This week I'm pairing you all on the basis of your projects and recent test results. In the next week there will be small test to determine your improvement. Study partner assignments are... Sakshi with Sona, Ajay with Prayag... Ranveer with Antara, lastly Suman with Ravi. You all have your study partners. Any questions?

Antara~ "Excuse me ma'am... but does these study partners assignments for just this subject or all subjects?

Teacher~ "It is for all subjects and also for the ones that you find yourself having trouble with. You can go through any subjects that you want to discuss with your study partner. It will help you all to study better. Any other questions? No? Now we will resume our lesson... she said and continued from where the lesson was left in its previous class.

Ranveer was distracted in today's class. He kept playing back the recent conversation and the study partner assignments given. Suman gave him a gentle nudge to get him back to present and asked in gesture if something is wrong. Ranveer shook his head to reply nothing is wrong. Suman knew Ranveer well and the way teacher made Ranveer wait a little longer in her room, Suman thought Ranveer is in trouble again. When it was recess hour, Suman confronted Ranveer when they were alone.

Suman~ "Ranveer... I know something happened. She made you stay back. Are you in trouble again?

Ranveer~ "Nothing happened Suman, I told you already.

Suman~ "Then why did she sent me back to class while she asked you to stay?

Ranveer~ "She only said that she knows we brothers are over-protective of you and that you can take care of things yourself. She maybe referring to the prank Manan bhai spoke of yesterday.

Suman kept a keen gaze on Ranveer as if she was trying to detect any signs of a lie. "Fine, if you don't want to tell me. But I always find out.

Ranveer~ "There is nothing to find out, really.

They were joined by Manan and Sahil soon enough. Ranveer is distracted was apparent to them as well. Once suman went away to library as her usual routine, Sahil and Manan asked Ranveer about it. Ranveer told them same story what he said to Suman.

Manan~ "Chill ranveer. I bet she over-exaggerated it.

Sahil~ "She is our sister, it is normal we feel protective towards her. Anyway, wouldn't you ask me how it went in my music class?

Ranveer~ "How did it went in music class Sahil bhai?

Manan~ "Did you impressed that girl and your teacher? he asked excitedly.

Sahil~ "First of all, that girl didn't come to school today. But I did impressed the teacher...

Manan~ "Really? What did you do? What did your teacher say?

Sahil~ "I wasn't even trying to impress anyone... I was just helping my classmates. And sir saw me helping... he has offered me to take lessons from him. That is so cool... I get to improve my talent as a guitarist! What do you say?

Ranveer~ "So you have decided to take lessons from him?

Sahil~ "Yes ranveer, but not to impress anyone. Only because I love playing guitar.

Manan~ "So... no girl?

Sahil~ "No. Just for myself. Sir told me this way I can be a mediator for him and my classmates so he can help them better, through me.

Ranveer~ "Sahil bhai, it means you have become his favourite student.

Sahil~ "You can say that.

By then suman was back from the library. Suman~ "Who became whose favourite?

Manan~ "Sahil bhai impressed his music teacher and now is his favourite student... and he also decided to accept the offer to take private lessons.

Suman~ "Very nice Sahil bhai.

Sahil~ "Thanks Suman for your suggestion. I want to do this for myself and not to impress any girl.

Suman~ "That is even better Sahil bhai. I'm glad you decided to keep it true to yourself.

Soon the recess hour was over and the kids returned to their classes. After classes very over, they all returned home. At home, they met with dadi'sa Suhasini and Nupur who inquired them about their day at school. Sahil narrated to them about his day and what his music teacher offered him.

Nupur~ "I know about that Sahil. Your teacher called and you will start your lessons from today itself. He will come here every day at 6 p.m. to teach you music. Maybe your brother Manan will take some inspiration from you and stop wasting his evenings on planning new mischiefs.

Manan~ "Someone has to do it mom. Sahil bhai, Ranveer and Suman are too sincere to plan anything... so I have to step up and be the mastermind.

Nupur~ "Master something useful like your Sahil bhai. Music brings peace and happiness to the surroundings. Your mischiefs are like trouble and negativity from rahu-ketu themselves. Manan, please learn something useful for a change from your Sahil bhai.

Manan~ "Your request has been duly noted. When I will have free time, I will give it some thinking.

Nupur~ "Is that so? Come here, I will teach you a good old fashioned lesson on thinking. She said as Manan made a run for it and she had to run after him.

its really very cute.. you write it so well

Chapter 5

Dadi'sa~ "What about you two? How was your day at school? she asked Ranveer Suman.

Suman~ "Our teacher assigned us study partners today, so the weak students can have a chance to improve their performance with the help of good students.

Dadi'sa~ "Is that so? Who did you two got assigned with?

Suman~ "Ranveer got assigned with Antara while I got assigned with that new boy in our class, Ravi.

Ranveer~ "I don't understand why we can't switch partners? I suggested Suman on the way to partner with Antara instead, but she says that's not what the teacher said. I don't see how it would make any difference.

Dadi'sa~ "If it wouldn't make any difference then why does it bother you Ranveer?

Suman~ "Absolutely right dadi'sa! Ranveer doesn't like to team up with anyone else in the class. He says no one else gets him like I do. I told him; how can they when Ranveer never gives them a chance to know him. Right dadi'sa?

Dadi'sa~ "Well... Let us leave that to Ranveer. He should be allowed to decide what he wants to do and how he wants to do it. I trust that whatever he decides, must have a good reason behind it.

Suman~ "Ok dadi'sa. I will trust Ranveer's decision too.

Dadi'sa and Suman went away and left Ranveer alone, to think over it. Come the evening, Ranveer Suman's study partners arrived as well. Suhasini had asked chaman ji to set up tables in the garden for the kids to study. As a result, chaman ji had set up four study tables in the garden, one for each Sahil, Manan, Ranveer and Suman.

Suhasini~ "Chaman ji! I asked to set up study tables... never mind. I forgot to be specific when I told you to set up those tables.

Nupur~ "Don't worry bhabhi'sa. Only one table might go un-used as Manan is not the one to study so easily. It still surprises me how he manages to score good marks in his tests and exams.

Manan~ "Just because you don't see me study, doesn't mean that I don't. I just take very less time to finish my work and revise my lessons than the three of them. After all, I'm the smartest and the busiest of the four. He said as he passed by them with his books in his hands.

Dadi'sa~ "That is why he usually gets away after his mischiefs. Manan is as much a good student as he is mischievous.

Suhasini~ "You are correct maa'sa. But one thing is for sure... it wouldn't feel like they are kids if all of them were simple and sincere. There little big mischiefs is what makes them kids.

Nupur~ "I have to agree with you badi bhabhi'sa. These childhood days are golden years. If they wouldn't do mischiefs, then who will? Certainly we adults wouldn't look good doing mischiefs like them.

The three of them laughed about it and then returned to their work. Manan was soon followed by Suman and Ranveer, who were joined by their study partners Antara and Ravi. Their tables were far enough for them to not disturb one another but still close enough that they could call out to each other if needed be. Ravi and Suman got down straight to study. Ravi had already marked the points where he had trouble in different subjects.

Suman~ "I'm no teacher, but I will try my best to help you with these points. She said and then started to explain the points to him. Ravi made notes to help himself revise it all later.

Between Antara and Ranveer, it wasn't going as smoothly as Suman and Ravi. Antara had marked up some points as well where she could use some explaining. Ranveer was unable to do his best as he was getting distracted by Suman and Ravi. Antara noticed Ranveer glancing towards Suman and Ravi over and over.

Antara~ "Ranveer... you skipped this point. I won't be able to understand the next points without properly understanding it.

Ranveer~ "There is nothing to explain in that point. Just learn it as it is.

Antara~ "I can't just learn the formula. I need to understand how it came to be?

Ranveer~ "Did you question that when you learned alphabets and numbers? No, you just learn them. Same with this formula, you only need to understand how to use it with the details given in a question and not how it came to be.

Antara~ "But teacher explained in the class how the formula came to be.

Ranveer~ "Why didn't you learned it then?

Antara~ "Now you are being rude!

Ranveer~ "I'm not being rude and I'm not a teacher. I'm just a study partner here to help you get better grades. I cannot answer everything. Some things can only be answered by our teacher.

Antara~ "You are not even answering or explaining anything. It simply feels like you are trying to get rid of me?

Ranveer~ "I'm not.

Antara~ "Yes, you are. Seems like you are more interested in what is going between Suman and Ravi. Do you have a problem if someone else teams up with your sister?

Ranveer~ "That is none of your concern. You are only here for studies.

Antara~ "Which I don't see happening since you are mostly distracted. I have seen you in library how you study with Suman. But if this is the way you really study with Suman, I wonder how she keeps up with you. Tears forms in her eyes as she starts packing up her books.

Ranveer~ "Now you are leaving? Whole time you keep complaining I was distracted but what about you? Your whole concentration was on where I was looking. Had you paid more attention in class when teacher nicely explained the formula, you wouldn't have had any troubles with it in first place. Even now your concentration was at someplace else.

Antara started crying and as she got up to leave, Manan intervenes. "What happened? Why is she crying? Ranveer... isn't she supposed to be here for studies?

Ranveer~ "She doesn't pay attention to studies Manan bhai...

Antara~ "Lies! Ranveer can't take it that Suman got teamed up with someone else.

Manan~ "Calm down! You are here for studies. What Ranveer does and doesn't is his issue. Why does it has anything to do with your studies?

Manan's question was something that picked right on Antara's nerves because she had a major crush on Ranveer. It wasn't that Ranveer didn't do a good job explaining, but it was Antara unable to let it slide that Ranveer didn't even looked at her once since she joined him for study.

Antara collects up herself before she could answer "Because Ranveer is not explaining it to me properly. He is distracted.

Ranveer~ "You didn't understood when teacher explained so nicely in the class. Who am I in comparison to our teacher to help you understand any better?

Antara~ "That's it! I will report our teacher that Ranveer doesn't want to study with me or anyone.

Manan~ "Take it easy you two. You were given study partner. There is no reason all four of you can't do a group study together.

Ranveer~ "Waste of time Manan bhai... again her only concentration would be on what I do.

Manan~ "At least then teacher will know that it will be her fault as she will be the one who won't improve her performance while he does. Then her partner will be changed again.

Antara~ "No! ... I... I mean... there won't be a need for that. Group study... idea sounds good.

Manan called chaman ji to have the two tables put together so Ranveer, Suman, Ravi and Antara could study together. The four of them sat together which improved the situation to a better state so all four could study peacefully. By then Sahil also joined outside to take his guitar lessons from his teacher. As Manan got up and started to leave...

Ranveer~ "Manan bhai... where are you going?

Manan~ "My study is done. Time for some personal stuff. You coming?

Ranveer~ "Let me finish here quickly then I will join you.

Manan~ "Sahil bhai... What do you say?

Sahil~ "Manan... don't!

Manan had an evil smirk on his face "Too bad you won't be able to join sooner. And he ran off.

Before Manan ran off, his eyes met with Antara's for a short second that changed everything for her. Antara had always imagined a twinkle in Ranveer's eyes but the shine in Manan's eyes is what she couldn't ignore.

Suman~ "Ranveer... you can't hold on to that chair anymore. If you want you can go ahead. I will finish up the last two points.

Ranveer jumped off on his feet "Thanks Suman... you are the best. And he ran off after Manan.

Antara~ "Are your brothers always like this?

Suman~ "I guess they are... pretty much.

Antara~ "Don't they get in trouble over it?

Suman~ "They do... but they also have their way to get out of the trouble as well.

Antara~ "What about you? You are their partner in crime?

Suman~ "Antara... we should finish these last two points. We can catch up later on my brothers.

Antara thought it over "Ranveer was right... Problem isn't him, it is me. I get distracted easily.

Suman finished up the studies with Ravi and Antara, they bid farewell and left. Sahil also finished up the guitar lesson for today, then bid farewell to his teacher. Together Sahil and Suman rushed inside to catch Manan and Ranveer before they set up any crazy prank into action.

Ravi and Antara returned to their respective home. All the way Antara could still see that shine she saw in Manan's eyes.

Antara~ "All the three brothers are so cute... but Manan... she let out a silent sigh. "Oh god, if Sanjana di noticed that I'm thinking about a boy, she would make so much fun of me.

Soon she arrived home where her elder sister Sanjana was waiting for her.

Sanjana~ "So miss Antara has finally returned home. How was it? Or should I ask how he was?

Antara plays innocent "The group study is great. As for he'... I don't know who you are referring to?

Sanjana~ "I know you had a major crush on that boy from your class.

Antara~ "Right... I had. Now I'm all over it.

Sanjana~ "So fast? That is new.

Antara~ "He is just not my type... you know.

Sanjana~ "Yeah I very well know. You seem to change your crush every month.

Antara~ "Well I m going to be more mature from now on and not get in the mess of having a crush on anyone. That was your advice last month if you remember Sanjana di.

Sanjana~ "Oh I remember everything. I'm just curious how long this one lasts.

Antara looked at Sanjana cautiously as she headed towards her room. Antara thought to herself once she was safely in her room. "Ranveer's brother is so cute and the twinkle in his eyes... it was like watching someone who knows how to live life to the fullest and have fun. The way his eyes shine in the sunset... I couldn't even take my eyes away. Sanjana di could easily tell what I had till now is different from what I felt today. But I cannot tell Sanjana di about this... she will make fun of me. But she knows me so well... she will figure it out faster than I could find a way to hide it...

For Antara, her mind became a room where she was arguing over with her own selves.

In-love Antara~ "You know you fell in love in first sight.

In-doubt Antara~ "Could be Sanjana di is right. It is just like last 20 times... another crush on a guy who seemed as someone who knows how to have fun.

Angry Antara~ "Lies... all lies... all boys are alike. But this time they are also brothers. They are definitely alike. He will also treat you like nobody and ignore you.

Angel Antara~ "No, no, no... It is wrong to judge a person without even knowing them. At least give him a chance to know you first.

Angry Antara~ "What is the point... he will simply overlook like you are invisible.

In-doubt Antara~ "Invisible... I'm always invisible. No one sees me, no one hears me.

Angry Antara~ "It is like we live in a shell that no one can see past. You need to show yourself to the world. You saw how everyone sees the other cool kids at school and in the park. You need to do something...

Angel Antara~ "Let us not get ahead of ourselves. We are nice and good.

Angry Antara~ "Goodness doesn't win anything in this world.

In-love Antara~ "Now, now... we need to be our self around people. Instead of hiding behind people around us, we just need to be a little bit bolder. We see other people like they are, we should allow them to see how we are too.

The whole chaos going on in Antara's mind dispersed when their maid came to ask Antara to join on the dinning table.

Maid~ "Antara baby... your mama has asked you to be at the dining table in five.

Antara~ "Thank you. I will be there in just a second. She called from behind the door of her room.

The maid left to let Kalavati know of Antara's reply.

this part was funny 😆 loved antara's mind conversations 😆 and Ranveer being jealoused 😳

Chapter 6

At the dining table Sanjana and Kalavati were already seated when Antara arrived.

Kalavati~ "How was the group study? Your sister told me about your group study team assignments. Why is it that your grades are low that you needed to partner up with other students?

Antara~ "Mom... that is... not my fault. Sanjana di always makes me help with her assignments. I barely get time for my studies. Not to mention today di skipped school...

Kalavati~ "What!? Sanjana... you skipped school again? Might I know the reason for this time?

Sanjana~ "Mom... I... I...

Kalavati patiently waited for Sanjana to reply but Sanjana couldn't say that she skipped school only to go to movies with her two friends.

Sanjana~ "Mom... let us finish dinner first or it will go cold. She tried to change subject.

Kalavati~ "Alright, I don't need an answer. But from now on... you young lady are grounded. No phone calls, no texting, no social calls from your two friends, no laptop without my supervision... and no movies. Also I should add that you are getting a study partner as well like your sister.

Sanjana~ "Study partner? But why? My grades are good as ever!

Kalavati~ "They can be better. You know I never differentiate or show favouritism between you and your little sister. If she has no problem working hard to improve her grades then so can you.

Sanjana~ "Why don't you just say that you are assigning me a guard as my punishment?

Kalavati~ "Honestly... it is just a favour for a dear friend of mine. She and her husband are going out of country for a while and their daughter is coming here to stay with us. You should know her as she is your classmate.

Sanjana~ "Who?

Kalavati~ "Ria... My dear friend Mrs. Sharma's daughter. We did went on camping trip last vacation together.

Sanjana~ "That nerd? She and I never get along mother.

Antara~ "She is not a nerd, she is genius. She is also working as an intern in their company.

Sanjana~ "That pretty much comes under the definition of nerd, Antara.

Kalavati~ "Well it is time you do get along because she will be staying with us for two weeks. And she will also be your study partner.

Sanjana~ "Fine mom... You made your point. I won't skip school again.

Kalavati~ "Either way, you are grounded for skipping school thrice till now. So, be prepared to have some descent company for next two weeks. Now finish up your dinner then off to bed. You don't want to miss your school again tomorrow to increase your punishment.

Sanjana sighed then quietly finished her dinner. Soon enough it was bedtime for them. Similarly in Mittal residence as well, it was bedtime for kids. Sindoora was still upset the way Ranveer back talked with her the other night then ignored her this morning. As her usual routine she came to Ranveer's room. Hearing the door creak, Ranveer pulled the sheets over and pretended to be asleep. Sindoora saw Ranveer in his bed. She only came in to turn off the lights and without a word, just left.

Ranveer stood up as soon as the door closed. "See... again nothing. Fine mom, even I don't see the need to apologize. You always behave like this whenever it is something about Suman. If you don't apologize for all the mean things you say about Suman, then I won't apologize to you either. We both get to be stubborn. He mumbled.

There was a slight knock on the door.

Ranveer~ "Who is it?

Suman opened the door and came in. "Your lights were off I thought you already fell asleep.

Ranveer forgot what he was thinking as soon as he saw Suman. He knew well that Suman is afraid of darkness, hence he switched on the backlight of his bed. "No it is fine. Come right in. Something you wish to talk about? he asked.

Suman~ "I wanted to talk about my nightmare from last night.

Ranveer took her hand in his hand "I told you, you don't need to talk about it.

Suman~ "But I want to... I need to...

Ranveer~ "You don't have to be worry about it Suman. Everyone gets nightmares.

Suman~ "You get nightmares too? It was a curious question coming from Suman.

Ranveer~ "What if I tell you that I have had nightmares too?

Suman~ "Don't they scare you?

Ranveer~ "They were only nightmares Suman, they passed away. Dadi'sa told me once that I shouldn't let my nightmares rule my dreams, as dreams are where I get to do anything I want, or whatever I love.

Suman~ "She did?

Ranveer~ "She did when I was scared of my nightmare.

Suman~ "What happened then?

Ranveer went into thought to recall the last memory of that time.

"...Dadi'sa, I had a nightmare... that one day everyone will leave like Disha di and I will be left all alone... Little Ranveer came to talk to his dear dadi'sa few nights after the death of Disha di because of his nightmare. Dadi'sa told him that nightmares only try to stop you from having dreams and filling them with colours of your choice. Your dreams are your own world where you can do anything you like in any way you love... Little Ranveer complained to dadi'sa that no one gave him any colours to fill in his dreams. Dadi'sa replied that someday he will have someone in his life who will bring a lot of colours... Then came Suman... Ranveer found out about Suman fearing her nightmares too... and he wanted to give her lot of colours to fill in her dreams so she never has to be afraid of her nightmares... That day onwards he never had nightmares troubling him.

Suman~ "Ranveer?

Ranveer came out of his thoughts and replied "Someone brought lot of colours for me and then I stopped getting nightmares.

Suman~ "I wish someday someone brings lot of colours for me too.

Ranveer instinctively replied "I will... then changed it "Yes, someone will. Then you should fill lot of colours in beautiful dreams with him.

Suman~ "Thank you Ranveer, you are my best friend. You always know how to make me feel better. I will try to keep it in mind. Then my nightmares won't haunt me?

Ranveer~ "No, your nightmares won't trouble you anymore.

Suman~ "Thank you Ranveer. I should go back to bed and let you sleep as well. We have school again tomorrow.

Ranveer~ "Good night Suman... and sweet dreams.

Suman~ "Good night and sweet dreams to you too. She said as she left for her room.

Ranveer said to himself "Certainly a good night and sweetest dreams for me... he smiled and laid back on his bed until he fell asleep and dreams filled his night.

The next morning arrived and yet again Sindoora and Ranveer didn't talk to each other. Suhasini noticed this as she came out of Suman's room that morning. Also at the breakfast Ranveer Sindoora kept behaving like little kids who act normal to hide that they had a fight. The kids left for school soon and Sindoora went to her room to get her things before she leaves to work with Aakash. Suhasini followed Sindoora to her room. Suhasini knocked the door.

Sindoora~ "Yes, come in.

Suhasini~ "Sindoora.

Sindoora~ "Badi bhabhi'sa, aap yahan? Kuch kaam tha?

Suhasini~ "Kuch khas nahi, bas itna poochna tha ki koi baat hai kya?

Sindoora~ "Main samjhi nahi?

Suhasini~ "Aaj subah jab tum ranveer ko jagane gayi tab bhi... aur phir nashta karte samay bhi... koi baat hui hai, tab-hi tum aur ranveer ek doosare se baat nahi kar rahe.

Sindoora~ "Badi bhabhi'sa aap bekar pareshan ho rahi hai. Aap janti hai ranveer ziddi hai. Kisi baat par zid pakad kar baitha hai, bas.

Suhasini~ "Tum bhi koi kam ziddi nahi ho Sindoora. Ranveer to tumhare jaisa hi hai.

Sindoora~ "Par main Ranveer ki har zid to poori nahi kar sakti na?

Suhasini~ "Wo kaam to sirf maa'sa ka hai. Saare bacho ko unhi ki shay mili hai.

Sindoora~ "To aap hi bataye main kya karoon?

Suhasini~ "Tum kuch mat karo. Tumhe office jaane me deri ho rahi hai. Maa'sa se main baat karlungi, ab unke ladle Ranveer ko maa'sa hi samjhayengi. Theek hai?

Sindoora~ "Badi bhabhi'sa aap meri har problem ko samajhti hai aur suljha bhi deti hai. Thank you.

Suhasini~ "Ab hum teen bahuein ek dusare ki pareshani nahi samjhenge to kaun samjhega?

Sindoora~ "Yeh baat to aapne poori tarah se sahi kahi hai badi bhabhi'sa.

They both smiled and returned back to what they were going to do... Suhasini returned to her daily routine and Sindoora left for the work with Aakash.

On the way to school, Sanjana and Antara were having a silent argument.

Sanjana~ "Why did you ratted me out in front of mom?

Antara~ "You tell mom about what I do all the time...

Sanjana~ "So... it was payback?

Antara~ "No, why do I need to do that?

Sanjana~ "You damn well know why?

Antara~ "You never involve me or invite me for anything. Have you seen other brothers and sisters?

Sanjana~ "What about them?

Antara~ "Good or bad they always involve each other.

Sanjana~ "Where is this coming from? Let me guess... the mittal kids?

Antara~ "Them or any other brothers and sisters... have you never noticed them?

Sanjana~ "I know they stay together only to put the blame on each other when caught doing a mischief.

Antara~ "Why don't you then?

Sanjana~ "Because I don't have time to waste on childish mischiefs.

Antara~ "But you are a child still... or you already turned grandma?

Sanjana~ "What did you called me?!

Antara~ "You heard me...

Sanjana fumed while Antara made faces at her just to tease her more. Soon they arrived at school and went to their respective classes. As they were on their way to class, they saw Mittal kids climbing off their car and heading to the class as well. Antara waved at them. Sahil was already on his way to the stairs, so was Sanjana. Manan and Suman waved back at Antara in polite gesture.

Manan~ "Suman Ranveer... I will leave you with your friend here. I need to run or I might be late for Sinha sir's class, he is little strict about discipline. Catch you all later. And he ran off.

Ranveer~ "We should head to class as well or we might turn up late. I don't want to start my day with scolding.

Suman~ "Ok Ranveer. Hi Antara, let's head to class together.

Antara~ "Hi Suman, hi Ranveer... yeah. Let's get to class.

Ranveer~ "Hi. I will race you two if you like.

Suman~ "No thanks Ranveer, mom has already told you and Manan bhai not to run on the stairs.

Ranveer~ "Fine, fine! But at least we can walk faster or we might turn up late...

Suman~ "Ok, as you say mister discipline... she said making a face at him.

Ranveer~ "You don't have to say it that way.

Antara laughed watching Ranveer Suman like this, and so did Ranveer Suman too. Together the three of them made their way to the class just in time to not get scolded. In class, Antara sat next to Suman today, while Ranveer sat behind them. During the five minutes break between classes, Antara speaks with Suman.

Antara~ "Suman... have you and Ranveer always been like this?

Suman~ "What do you mean?

Antara~ "It seems like you and Ranveer are not just brother and sister...

Suman~ "Why? What do you think we are?

Antara~ "I have seen lot of brothers and sisters... but they not always get along like you do with your brothers. Even I don't get along so well with my sister...

Suman~ "What is your point?

Antara~ "All I'm trying to say is that there is more than a simple brother sister relation between you and Ranveer.

Suman~ "Maybe you are right. I and Ranveer are not just brother and sister... we are more like best friends. Know each other's secrets, help in mischiefs, study together and compete with each other...

Antara~ "That is what best friends do. I wish I could get along like this with my sister, instead we only tease each other, rat each other out to mom... little big cat fights... and what not.

Suman~ "No brothers and sisters relation is same... Sahil and Manan bhai for example... Sahil bhai keeps trying to stop Manan bhai from playing pranks, but he still looks out for him no matter what. Not everyone is alike, hence relations for them are also different.

Antara~ "That is a nice way to put it. Thanks Suman, I didn't think it like this before.

Suman~ "You should meet my dadi'sa, she is the one who taught me everything. My dadi'sa is the wisest person I know.

Antara~ "I would love to meet her.

Thus was the beginning of a good friendship between Antara and Suman.

Chapter 7

In music class, their teacher was inspecting the progress of his students in the assignment given to them. Sanjana was called out for she had done the least progress in her assignment.

Teacher~ "Sanjana, you have not even started with your assignment yet! Your irresponsibility will cost your team mate as well. I suggest you better start working hard on your assigned tune.

Sanjana quietly took her place back with her teammate and started to work with the tune. It was even harder for Sanjana as she had not much interest in learning music, but it was the only thing she could take up under curricular activity that wasn't already filled up.

Ria~ "Sanjana, please try and work with me. I don't want to get low grades because of low performance in music.

Sanjana~ "I don't want low grades either. But it seems to be my bad luck that it was the only class I could take up in curricular activity.

Ria~ "How about we at least try to work together while we are a team?

Sanjana~ "How rude and mean of you! You are only worried for your own grades!

Ria~ "Shouldn't you worry only about your grades instead of self-pity for not being able to sign up for other curricular class of your choice?

Sanjana~ "Well when you put it that way...

Teacher~ "Silence in my class please. Only thing I'm interested in hearing during my class is the sound of the instruments, and nothing else.

Sanjana and Ria lowered their voice further and reached an agreement to work together for better performance and better grades. Ria noticed other kids in the class asking Sahil for help when they had any problems. Ria asked around and learned that yesterday Sahil helped the other students and for that he unofficially is now their teacher's assistant. Ria told the same to Sanjana who remained unaffected by that fact what so ever. After class Ria spoke with the teacher and asked for his guidance. In response to Ria's request, the teacher allowed Ria to join for the evening lessons he started for Sahil.

The day at school soon came to an end and all kids returned home. Ranveer Manan and Sahil did some catching up at what they did all day on their way back home. Suman listened to them quietly.

Manan~ "Suman... you have nothing interesting to tell us?

Suman~ "Nothing new other than what Ranveer told you... but I did made a new friend.

Manan~ "Oh, who?

Suman~ "Don't look at me like that, it is not a guy. You already met her yesterday.

Sahil~ "That study partner girl?

Suman~ "Yes, Sahil bhai. And her name is Antara.

Sahil~ "Sweet name. Good you have new friends you can hang out more with. Otherwise your brothers Manan and Ranveer are only turning you into mischievous person like themselves.

Manan~ "Hey, that's not fair! Haven't you heard? No one can make you do something you don't want to do... even mischiefs.

Sahil~ "You keep your philosophies to yourself. Suman is better off with other friends than in the company of you two. Is that why you two don't let her make new friends?

Ranveer gets defensive "I'm not saying anything doesn't mean you will keep dragging me in the cross hairs. I never stopped Suman from making new friends. It is not my fault she has a reserved nature. She like to keep it to herself.

Manan~ "I have to agree with Ranveer. Suman has reserved nature. But if she feels free around me and Ranveer... then I don't see why anyone should feel bothered by that.

Ranveer~ "I don't know how Suman feels around you Manan bhai... but I know Suman feels free around me because I'm not just her brother... I'm also her best friend. Just like she is mine.

Sahil~ "Tell me BFFs... how come you cause so much trouble to her then?

Ranveer~ "I didn't trouble her...

Sahil~ "Didn't you left Suman to finish work yesterday with the other two study partners?

Ranveer~ "She allowed me to go with Manan bhai.

Sahil~ "That is because she know you better that you would have disturbed the group in your rush to go after Manan.

Ranveer~ "When you say it that way... I think Suman took the right decision sending me away.

Sahil~ "If you really cared about her as a best friend, then you wouldn't leave her to work alone, even if she forces you to go away.

Manan~ "Who is teaching philosophy now Sahil bhai?

Sahil~ "I can because I'm eldest of all four of us... more mature and responsible too.

Manan joked "I can agree about first half thing... that you called yourself our dada ji... last half I can't be so sure. His sentence even made Ranveer Suman to laugh.

Sahil~ "Joke as much you want. But one day your mischiefs will land Suman in serious trouble from which neither of us could bail her out.

Manan~ "Like she would ever need someone to bail her out, she is youngest of us and a girl.

Sahil~ "That will no longer work like it used to two years back. We all are growing up and that means we will soon be held responsible for all our actions. Mark my words.

Manan made faces to pass it off as a joke again. None of them had known that Sahil's words will come true sooner than they could have even guessed. That evening Manan decided to play one of his pranks on Ranveer. Like a day earlier, today chaman ji got duty to set up tables again. When chaman ji was taking chairs out, finding the opportunity, Manan sneaked in and broke one of the chair peg. Chaman ji returned to take the other chairs as well. Manan offered to help chaman ji only to be able to make sure the chair goes to Ranveer. But Manan could not have known that they will have two more people joining them today.

Meanwhile at Parmar residence, Kalavati returned from office earlier. As Antara was getting ready to leave for Mittal residence to join with her study group, Kalavati called Sanjana.

Kalavati~ "Sanjana... you are going with Antara.

Sanjana~ "Wait... why? She is a grown up and not a baby that she will need me as an escort. Moreover she will have our driver take her and bring her back.

Kalavati~ "I heard from your teacher about your low performance and bad grades in curricular activity. It may not be important but it affects your overall grades.

Sanjana~ "So?

Kalavati~ "Mittal's eldest son is taking music lessons. Also... Mrs. Sharma's daughter is going there too. So it wouldn't hurt to join the smart kids for once and try to improve your performance.

Sanjana~ "But I have plans mom.

Kalavati~ "You are grounded as I can recall. So any plans you had or wanted to make, they will have to be rescheduled to some other time.

Sanjana~ "Whose idea was this, to make this arrangement part of my punishment?

Kalavati~ "I don't need anyone to tell me anything. It is a benefit of being mature and responsible person... which sadly you lack.

Sanjana~ "I can be mature and responsible when I want.

Kalavati~ "I say then it is time for you now to show that level of maturity and responsibility regarding your performance and grades.

Sanjana~ "What do I get if I do that?

Kalavati~ "I might free you from your punishment which is currently in place for an indefinite duration. Another benefit I get for grounding you is that... you don't get a choice when it comes to deciding what you do or don't do. Whether you behave maturely and responsibly, that is up to you.

Sanjana~ "This is purely unfair!

Kalavati~ "You lying and skipping school was fair? It might have been as long as it didn't affect your performance. But hanging out with that wrong bunch of people you call friends... it has severely affected your performance. You used to be an A' grade student. I will not accept an average performance from you this year young lady. This is your final year at school.

Sanjana took a deep breath "As you command mom. I will go get ready. She went to her room and returned few minutes later with her guitar case.

Then Sanjana and Antara both left for the Mittal residence. When they reached the Mittal residence, Ria was already getting off of her car and heading to the garden. The four Mittal kids were already in the garden when Antara Sanjana and Ria joined them.

Sahil~ "Hi Ria, Antara and Sanjana. How are you two here?

Ria~ "I spoke with our music teacher and he told me to join here for extra class.

Sahil~ "You could have called earlier... maybe? What about you Sanjana? You here to escort your sister or for music lessons too?

Sanjana~ "That would be neither. My mom asked me to take my music class seriously and she asked me to join you guys... learn from you guys and get my grades up.

Sahil~ "Oh, ok... Just let me get two more chairs put up here for you two. Our teacher will be here in just a min... oh, he is here. He said as he saw his teacher coming in.

Ranveer Suman offered their chairs to Sahil while chaman ji brings two more chairs from inside. Manan felt his prank going sideways, he tries to stop them but it was too late. Suman's accidentally gives the broken chair to the teacher. The teacher sits in the chair and falls as the peg breaks. Since that chair was given by Suman, the blame came to her. Only Ranveer Sahil understood that this was one of Manan's pranks that seriously went bad. Antara noticed the three of them staring at each other she figured it out as well.

Antara rushed to the teacher "I'm very sorry sir, it was just a small prank meant for my friend. I seriously apologize for it... she told to the music teacher.

Teacher~ "You should understand that your pranks could seriously hurt someone... I'm not your teacher but I would certainly like to speak with your parent tomorrow. You better convey my request to your parent.-+

Antara bowed her head as the guilty one and agreed to bring her mother tomorrow. But it was quite a shock for Suman Ranveer Manan and Sahil that Antara took the blame on herself. After the music class and study group session were finished, Manan came to Antara.

Manan~ "Antara... Can I ask you something?

Antara~ "If you are going to ask why I took the blame... I don't know.

Manan~ "But you do know who was to blame.

Antara~ "Does it matter? Now no one else has to answer for it but me.

Manan~ "Won't you get it trouble for it?

Antara~ "That's all right. It is my first time so I will only get a warning.

Manan~ "What will you say when everyone asks you why you did it?

Antara~ "No one will ask me questions like police interrogates a criminal.

Manan~ "If that is what you think. But, I wanted to say something else.

Antara~ "What is it?

Manan~ "I wanted to say thanks... for saving Suman from getting scolded for my prank.

Antara~ "You are welcome. I wanted to ask something in return.

Manan~ "Sure.

Antara~ "Why do you play so many pranks that always gets you or someone else in trouble?

Manan~ "I only play pranks because it is simply fun... Though the teacher was right, and so was Sahil bhai...

Antara~ "Right about what?

Manan~ "That someday my prank could injure someone badly, then I would have nothing but regrets over my actions. I think it is time I start to take responsibilities for my actions.

Antara~ "That is what my mom told my sister today. Guess we all are growing up and all our elders expect us to start taking responsibilities for our actions.

Manan~ "Growing up is no fun. He made faces.

Antara~ "How do you know?

Manan~ "Because every grown-up only talks about serious stuff, they just don't do anything fun anymore.

Antara~ "Maybe they just do stuff that is fun to them? Everyone does have different way of having fun, right? Like for me for instance... I like to do painting for fun.

Manan~ "Maybe we can ask everyone what do they think is fun.

Antara~ "Hmmm... How to ask them?

Manan~ "Directly ask them, silly. It is not a hard work to ask someone what they think is fun. If someone asks why you are asking, then you can say it is for a project.

Antara~ "I won't lie to them!

Manan~ "Then what did you do few minutes back?

Antara~ "That was... only to save Suman.

Manan~ "Lie is a lie... this time you will lie to... save me from doing crazy stuff again I guess.

Antara thought about it and slightly blushed before she replied "Ok.

awesome update.. Antara is so cuteee.. loving it.. post the next update soon 😉