Part-1
"You seriously think you can work here?" Armaan asked the girl sitting across him. He was finding the whole thing very funny...A girl wearing a majorly tacky pair of salwaar kameez with her specs slipping from her nose and her eyes lowered, clearly displaying lack of confidence wanted a job in one of the best FASHION magazines when she had no fashion sense at all.
Fine she was a topper and was a bright student but cramming notes would not help.
When he saw her nod her head he spoke "I see. What do you know about fashion Ms. Gupta?"
"Sir it's the prevailing style or custom."
"Just what I expected but I want to know what YOU think about it?"
"Sir I think that...
"A little louder Ms. Gupta."
"Yes sir. Sir I think the kind of fashion we follow gives others a shorthand about what kind of a person we are so I think we should stick to what we are truly comfortable in and whatever we really like to wear."
"Cliche" Armaan smiled and leaned back in his chair spinning the paper weight in his hands. This girl was here to become his assistant...HIS assistant...either she has lost it or she was taking him for a mug and since the latter was not possible it has to be the former and if its that....well then Armaan knew what to do.
"Ms. Gupta other then your academic certificates and mark sheets you have nothing that makes you even remotely fit to be an employee here. Ms. Gupta this is a FASHION magazine we are running here and every employee is part of the identity of this magazine. People try to judge a company by the kind of employees it hires....their image becomes the company's image and the company's image becomes theirs but Ms. Gupta the kind of image that you project is definitely not the kind I would want my company to be known with....there is not even a single position you are fit for...you can leave but before leaving I would like you to take a look at my staff so that you know what it takes to work in fashion world." Armaan saw Riddhima stand up and then she spoke "That won't be necessary sir. Its just that I thought that my talent and hard work would be enough but now I know it takes a lot more then that. Thank you."
Armaan narrowed his eyes at her retreating back and was thinking about what she just said when his cell rang'.
"Yes dad?" Armaan picked up his cell and heard his dad say "Armaan a girl is going to be coming to you for the job of the assistant, her name is Riddhima gupta. Son, I want you to give her this job. She is my best friend's daughter, her parents died 6 years back and her brother is working in another one of our companies...she needs this job Armaan and I really want to help her but don't let her know that I asked you to give her this job or she would refuse...I had asked Atul, her brother to send her here and anyways she has all the qualifications needed for this job. I hope I am not asking for too much?"
"Of course not dad...anything for you. I'll give her this job." Armaan told his dad and ended the call. He looked at the door from which she had exited. She wasn't the way she looked....a smart chic, got his dad to give her the job. Smart move but she can't win over me...fine I'll give her the job but she'll resign just as soon when I break her spirit. Armaan smiled and told Ms. Sara to tell Riddhima that she got the job. Sara, a middle aged lady was pleasantly surprised....she had liked the sweet girl Riddhima the moment they had met but she also knew that her boss would not give her the job seeing what a plane Jane she is....but she was thrilled that Riddhima got the job and she got the opportunity to inform her.
************
Riddhima was shocked when Sara told her that she got the job..she had no idea what was going on so she forgot everything and decided to focus on her work.
She was standing outside her boss's office..she knocked on the door and was summoned in.
She looked at him sitting behind his desk working on his laptop. He looked up and saw her standing right in front of him wearing a white salwaar suit with a blue combination, her hair tied in a pony tail and her specs as usual slipping slightly from her nose, she was short in height but her figure seemed fine.
Riddhima was growing uneasy knowing that Armaan was scrutinizing her head to toe and she also knew that he did not like her appearance one bit. She shifted uncomfortably on her feet and Armaan spoke "So Ms. Gupta you must be happy that you got the job?"
Riddhima looked at him but before she could say anything Armaan continued "Anyways, take these files and after reading them get the presentation prepared on the current market trends and show it to me tomorrow morning at 10:30 sharp''"
Riddhima nodded her head and just then a knock sounded on the door and Riddhima saw a very sexy blonde entering the cabin...her figure was perfect, hair straightened, skin flawless with her black mini dress emphasizing her curves and her high heels just added to her already tall height. She looked like some model who has stepped out of a fashion magazine. Riddhima looked back at Armaan who was looking at her intently. He signaled the blonde to come in and told Riddhima "This is Rose. You have to explain the entire presentation to her step by step as you make it. Make sure she gets all the details right. You know you have to show me the presentation tomorrow so you have exactly 24 hours 30 minutes for that and when I say 10:30 sharp I bloody well mean it so you better be on time tomorrow." Armaan got back to his e-mails while Riddhima was still processing the information he had shot at her still standing at the same spot. Armaan looked up from his e-mails and shouted "WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR. ME TO ESCORT YOU OUT? GET MOVING WOMAN."
Riddhima quickly moved out of the cabin with Rose following her. Riddhima was wondering where her cabin was when she heard Rose say "Want to know where your cabin is? Follow me." Rose commanded Riddhima who followed her silently. Riddhima followed Rose and after crossing two corridors they stood in front of a room....the corridor was dark and it seemed no one else had an office there. Riddhima didn't like the idea of working here. Rose opened the door for her and spoke slyly "This was the store room. We have removed all the stuff but the cleaning still needs to be done. We'll get it done soon. You have everything you need here so you won't have any problem working here. Call me when you start working on the presentation." With that Rose left.
Riddhima walked inside and looked around the room''it did need cleaning but it was fine for Riddhima to work. She didn't care about the place where she has to work provided the work is good and she was sure she would enjoy making the presentations because it needed hard work and Riddhima was a workaholic. She would have a great time studying the market trends, the latest changes and then the presentation would be fun....the only drawback being that she would have to work along with Rose on the presentation. Riddhima liked to work alone. She sighed and sat down on the chair behind the desk and got down to work.
***************
Armaan looked at his laptop screen and saw the geek Riddhima already down to work. He noticed how dedicated she was to her work. Maybe hiring her wasn't that bad an idea after all. Riddhima did not protest about working in the store room. He had fitted a camera in the room the kind that couldn't be noticed by anyone. He had done that because he wanted to keep an eye on her. The girl somewhat intrigued him and he also wanted to have every little detail about how she worked, and exactly how devoted was she? Armaan smiled seeing her head buried into the files and just as he was about to minimize the window he stopped and saw Riddhima take off her sandals and then to his surprise she crossed her legs Indian style on the chair and pushing her spectacles back in place she got back to work.
Armaan smiled, amused at her style of working and sighing he told himself "She is no way fit to be working here but she seems hardworking maybe I should let her work here but she wouldn't be allowed in public. She would do all the work and would get paid for it but Rose will be the one who'll be actually known as my assistant and she will be the one giving the presentation in the meeting tomorrow. Lets see how Ms. Gupta reacts to this arrangement of mine."
Armaan minimized the window and got back to work.
Part-2
Riddhima looked around for some sheets. She needed white sheets to take the print outs. She saw some on the rack and the sheets were on the top shelf and it was quite dusty. Riddhima went to the rack and raised her hand to reach the sheet lying on the top rack but in the process she knocked down a box lying on the edge...it fell down and made a clatter sound but luckily nothing in it broke. Riddhima picked it up and placed it back but Armaan who had placed the camera in the room heard the sound and switched on the screen of his laptop to see what she was doing. Armaan saw her reaching out for something on the rack. He saw that she was trying to grab the sheets on the top shelf and after trying for sometime her hand reached the sheets and she took them down but a lot of dust fell on her head and some of it covered the screen of her spectacles.
Riddhima placed the sheets on the table and took off her spectacles and wiped them with her dupatta. She touched her hair and than she decided that it would be better if she cleaned them in a washroom in front of a mirror. She walked out of the room but forgot the spectacles on the table.
Armaan saw her leaving the room with dust all over her hair and clothes. He quickly got out of his chair not wanting to miss out the opportunity to humiliate the geek Riddhima. He knew where she'll go. There was just one washroom in the corridor and he knew she'll be there.
Armaan walked towards the washroom. He heard the water running but the door was left ajar. He wondered what he was supposed to do. He can't possibly go inside but if the door was ajar it meant that she was decent. He peeped inside and froze.
Riddhima felt the dust on her head and reaching for the rubber band on her head she took it off and shook her head making her hair move like waves in a beach. Armaan saw her jet black hair reach her waist. She took her duppatta and gathering her hair on one side she removed the dust and than she turned her head with a jerk and her hair fell on the other shoulder and she did the same thing again. When she was satisfied that her hair were clean once again she threw them back on her shoulder. She took the water in her hands and threw it on her face and after doing that a couple of times she turned around and was moving out of the washroom when to her dismay she banged right into her boss, the very snotty Armaan Malik who was currently staring at her like she was the world's sexist model and he was wondering if he could have her on the front page of his oh-so-awesome fashion magazine.
Armaan looked at Riddhima and saw the water drops on her lips and cheeks. She looked beautiful. Her beautiful hair had already sent him in a trance. They were so beautiful and lustrous that they could make even a plain girl beautiful but she wasn't plain he realized as he looked into her eyes....her eyes were exquisite. Their darkness was like charcoal on fire.
Riddhima wondered what Armaan was thinking. If he was going to scold her. She finally gathered the courage and spoke "Sir!! Is there something I can do for you?"
Armaan snapped out of his trance and quickly got out of her way. She took that as a dismissal. She walked back to her dirty cabin.
After composing himself Armaan followed her to her cabin and saw her putting her glasses back. He cursed those specs for hiding the depth and beauty of those beautiful pair of eyes.
Than she gathered her hair and tied them back in a ponytail. After making sure everything was fine she went back to her chair and sat down. She got back to her work and Armaan who had been still staring at her took a few steps back and turned around.
The girl who had looked like the clumsiest geek he had ever laid his eyes on was now an enchantress who had captivated him in no time.
Armaan shook his head ruefully and strode back to his cabin.
************
"Okay now see this graph. It shows the sale of the magazines in different cities. And these are for the models that our magazine is covering.."
*KNOCK*
Riddhima was explaining the presentation to Rose when she was suddenly interrupted by a knock on the door. She saw a young guy standing at the entrance of the room.
"Hi I am David."
He extended his hand towards Riddhima who took it reluctantly knowing that David was sizing her up and down.
"Hey David. I am...
"Riddhima!..I know."
He cut off Riddhima impatiently and than looking at her store-cum-cabin he looked back at her and continued "The boss says that you don't have to explain the presentation to Rose since she won't be presenting it anymore. You'll do it yourself but before leaving for the meeting you have to meet Sara." And with that he left just as abruptly as he had come.
Riddhima was offended as to how could the boss make someone else use her presentation or was it HIS way to tell her exactly how unfit she was for the company and now what changed his mind. She shook her head and getting out of the chair she left to find Sara while Rose stood on her spot with her arms crossed across her chest wondering why the boss dismissed HER for the geek.
************
Armaan rolled the pencil in his mouth lost deep in his thoughts.
'What was with those eyes...they weren't exactly green ...no they were something between blue and green. Whatever color it was, it was beautiful and captivating. She had a really simple but absolutely beautiful face but he had to do something about making it look presentable. She can easily turn heads with the kind of beauty she has.... admitted that she wasn't half as beautiful as the models he had in his office but her look was so different and subtle and not to forget those eyes that anyone would be ready to forget those models for her one look. The water drops on her face....her lips made her look so desirable. Than why those weird shabby clothes? Didn't anyone ever tell her how beautiful she is? She needs to be told that''
"Sir!!!" Armaan was snapped out of his reverie by an always restless David.
"Yes David? Did you tell Riddhima what she is supposed to do?"
David nodded and Armaan signaled him to leave than he too left his cabin to see how Riddhima was dealing with the changes she was supposed to undergo.
************
"But I can't wear this. I don't wear such clothes." An agitated Riddhima told Sara with a short black tight skirt and a silk white shirt in her hand. It was like a formal business attire but Riddhima failed to understand why she can't wear her usual clothes after all it was her ability and presentation that needed to be good and Riddhima was confident that they were impeccable.
"And what's wrong with these clothes?" Armaan had heard Riddhima arguing with Sara.
"Sir!!'..uh I... sir actually I am not comfortable wearing these clothes and I would rather you allow me to go in my own clothes for I'll be a lot more comfortable and will be more at ease and being comfortable is a lot important for focusing on your work."
"I don't care Ms. Gupta. You are representing our fashion magazine. You are representing BEAU MONDE and I have to make sure that you live up to the standard this magazine has set in the outer world. I don't want anymore arguments so go and change immediately. We are running out of time already."
Armaan said in such a firm and dismissive tone that Riddhima at one understood that there was no room left for arguments.
She left to change while Armaan smiled to himself.
He paced the corridor waiting for Riddhima to come out and than suddenly his feet stopped itself and he raised his head and his eyes fell on a totally changed Riddhima....a gorgeous Riddhima....no!!'.a stunningly gorgeous Riddhima.
She still had her specs on and her hair were still tied. She looked all business like but her look could seriously distract people away from their work. She looked like an English teacher on whom the male students secretly have a crush.
Armaan walked towards Riddhima in a daze while Riddhima's grip tightened on the folders that she was holding in her hands and her knuckles turned white. She was already feeling very uncomfortable with the skirt coming an inch above her knees and the shirt was a size smaller and was so tight that people could actually make out the size of her breasts. Riddhima was turning red and the way Armaan was advancing towards her it was making her want to run for some cover but she kept standing erect.
Armaan was standing really close to her...so close that her knuckles which were around the folder she was holding against her chest were constantly brushing against his shirt. She wasn't breathing anymore hoping that Armaan would back off soon. Armaan raised his hand and took off Riddhima's rubber band around her pony and ruffled her hair letting them fall and than he took off her glasses and when she raised her eyes to look at him in puzzlement he had a sharp intake of breath looking at the innocence in her despite the extremely sexy look she was carrying at the moment.
Everyone in the corridor had stopped to witness the scene...the suddenly sexy Riddhima and an obviously smitten Armaan...
One of the employees was so busy trying to make out the color of Riddhima's eyes that he knocked down a flower stand and the sound of its falling brought Armaan back to reality and he gave the glasses back to Riddhima and spoke..
"follow me." And when he was passing the same employee, he glared at him and commanded "Make sure you clean the mess you created Mac."
With that he strode out of the office in his usual commanding and intimidating way while Riddhima followed him nervously trying her best to walk fast in those horribly long heels. She wondered if she should tie her hair and put on her glasses but what if the boss wanted her to look like this? She decided she'll leave it as it is.
Armaan sat down in the car waiting for Riddhima to join him. He had not seen her presentation and hoped it would be good enough and she'll be able to get them the contract. As Riddhima sat down in the car next to him her skirt moved up a little and Armaan's gaze fell on her perfectly shaped legs and the milky white skin. But when he noticed Riddhima squirming in her seat he looked away. Wondering how the day would go?
Part-3
"Are you nervous?" Armaan finally broke the silence in the car as they were heading to the meeting where Riddhima was supposed to give the presentation.
"No." Riddhima told Armaan who simply nodded at her response. Pleasantly surprised that she wasn't nervous even with the complete change in her outfit.
After a few minutes they reached the place where the presentation was supposed to be. As the chauffer opened the door for them they got out of the car and headed inside. Riddhima saw that the moment they entered a lot of heads turned their way. She saw people looking at her with a curious look but she ignored it all and focused onto how she would give the presentation.
A lot of people greeted Armaan. They all of course knew him....the famous Armaan Malik. They were about to enter the conference hall when a hand landed on Armaan's shoulder and turning around they both saw Vijay Malik, Armaan's dad smiling at them. Armaan moved forward and hugged his father and when they parted Vijay's eyes landed onto Riddhima who smiled at him and bending down she touched his feet, greeting her uncle whom she was meeting after quite some time.
Vijay placed his hand on her head blessing her but when she stood up he narrowed his eyes at her and spoke "I am so happy to see you Riddhima. I am glad you joined our company but you look so different."
"And the credit goes to me." Armaan spoke proudly expecting a bunch of compliments but instead his dad just shook his head ruefully and spoke "You disappoint me Armaan. I thought that you can identify a gem when you see one but you proved me wrong. You started bringing changes into her when she is better than perfect. Anyways cummon Riddhima lets go inside and show our rivals and your boss here what a fashion presentation looks like." Riddhima and Vijay exchanged warm smiles and they both walked in while Armaan stood at the same spot with his eyes narrowed but after a couple of seconds he too followed his dad and Riddhima.
They sat down and saw the presentations of a few other companies and than their turn came. Riddhima stood up from her seat and looked at Vijay who was sitting across her next to Armaan. He smiled at her and mouthed her a 'good luck'. Riddhima returned his smile and her eyes shifted to Armaan for just a moment and just when he was about to smile she walked away to the projector. She started her presentation and explained them everything as to why their magazine is so special and better than all others. But than all of a sudden Armaan saw on screen a whole different set of slides, all on Indian culture and how they are blending the east and the west in their magazine and bringing it to people. It seemed like she was promoting Indian culture and much to his horror it looked as if Indian culture was dominating the western one. They were there to propose a new set of designs for the garment company they were aspiring to get the contract from and the launch of this new set of garments will be covered by their magazine but now it seemed to Armaan that due to Riddhima's stupidity the prestigious contract will go to some other company. Armaan was instantly angry as this was not a part of the plan and he closed his eyes shaking his head and expecting the worst. Riddhima saw the expression change on Armaan's face but she remained unperturbed and her confidence level was amazing and not even for a moment did she get nervous.
When Riddhima ended her presentation a hush fell over the meeting room. Armaan decided that for the first time in his career he'll be loosing a contract. He stood up and spoke "I apologize gentlemen but it seems that my assistant did not follow my instructions as what she has shown you was not a part of the plan. I will immediately get the other presentation and if you don't mind i would like to show it to you."
Riddhima looked from one face to another expecting some response but when she didn't get one she bit her lower lip finally getting nervous and she had just lowered her eyes when she heard somebody clapping and raising her eyes she saw the owner of the garment company clapping and smiling at her. He was sitting at the head of the table and was soon joined by the rest of the people in the hall, all smiling and nodding in approval.
The head of the company stood up and turning towards Armaan he spoke "I don't know what you mean by Ms.Gupta not following your instructions but if this is the result of it than I am glad that she did her own thing and gave us this absolutely smashing set of ideas. I would love to work on these because I think fashion is all about experimenting and with these designs we'll be launching a set of garments which will be totally new and I am sure the public would love it. Congratulations Mr. Malik you got the contract all thanks to your superbly smart assistant. Congratulations Ms.Gupta I am impressed with your work. Keep it up." He nodded his head and after shaking Armaan and Riddhima's hand he fixed another meeting with them and left the hall followed by the rest.
Vijay walked towards Riddhima and patting her head he spoke "I knew you'll make me proud. And I think we'll make a great team against this brat of mine." Vijay turned towards Armaan and looking at him he spoke "And for the first time I'll hear my perfect boy apologize to someone." Armaan knew it was a command from his father and he anyways felt guilty about not having faith in his own assistant. He moved forward to where Riddhima and Vijay were standing and moving closer to Riddhima he spoke "I am sorry Riddhima. I was just angry as it was first time somebody did not follow my instructions and though its against the rules'
"ARMAAN!!!" Vijay spoke sternly knowing that Armaan was trying to get rid of his guilt and instead put it on Riddhima somehow but he wouldn't let that happen and Armaan getting the hint quickly nodded and continued "What I mean is that I am...you know uh...the way you gave the presentation....it was ...it was really good...and err..
Riddhima and Vijay both burst out laughing seeing just how difficult it was for Mr .High and mighty Armaan to say a simple sorry. Armaan looked at them and feeling embarrassed he took a deep breath he spoke in a rush "Iamsorryriddhima"
"WHAT???" He spoke it so quickly that they both weren't able to hear a single word of what he said but before they could say anything else he quickly strode out of the hall while Riddhima and Vijay were still laughing.
"The last time he apologized was when he was in 2nd standard and that too to his English teacher for bunking the class."
They both laughed harder at this.
*********
Armaan walked in his cabin the next day with Rose following him reading him his appointments. And when Armaan remembered that he had the appointment for the company they had won the contract from he asked Rose to send Riddhima to his cabin. He was seated behind his desk when he saw Riddhima entering his cabin with a number of files in her hands. She entered the cabin and was trying to close the door as well when the files slipped out of her hands and fell on the floor. Armaan looked at her angry with the ruckus she was causing and just when he was about to look away he realized that Riddhima was back in her desi attire, a yellow salwaar kameez with the dupatta around her neck and her hair tied in a pony tail and the spectacles back on her nose. He shook his head and rolled his eyes wondering why she didn't realize what those desi clothes and specs did to her beautiful appearance. She was still collecting the files when Armaan spoke loudly "Ms. Gupta would you please hurry up. I don't have the whole day."
"Yes...yes sir. Just a moment." She gathered all the files and slowly and carefully walked to Armaan's desk and placed them on his desk.
"Sir these are the files of the company we are going to be working for. All these files have the information about their garments, fashion shows and how they publicize it all. This will help us."
"So??" Armaan asked Riddhima.
"Uh.. sir I mean we can read these and....
Armaan cut her off in an irritated tone and spoke "Not we Ms. Gupta, YOU. You will read them and collect all the information you need. Since you have such brilliant ideas I want you to work alone on it but I just wanted to tell you that we have to leave to meet the company head within an hour so better hurry up. And you will have to change before we leave." Armaan turned to his laptop indicating the conversation was over but Riddhima didn't move and spoke "I WILL NOT change my clothes sir. This is what I am and there is no way I am going to change anything about it and yesterday's presentation should have taught you that....our culture is way better than all other and I am proud of who I am. I will stick to my culture no matter what and....
Armaan stood up from his chair pushing it back and growled angrily "MS. GUPTA I think you are forgetting who you are talking to. I can fire you right this instant."
Riddhima knew she had been rude but she needed to make her point clear once and for all. She smiled and spoke "DO with pleasure sir but as my answer is still the same. I am not going to change a thing about my appearance."
Armaan raised his finger at her and was about to say something when he heard his father's voice "ARMAAN!!!"
Riddhima turned around and her face lit up instantly and she ran across the cabin to the door and hugged the lady standing next to Vijay. The lady hugged her back while Armaan stood gaping at them shocked to see his mom hugging Riddhima.
Vijay walked towards Armaan and looking angrily at him he spoke "I heard you yelling at her. Armaan I want to talk to you."
He turned towards the ladies and excusing himself and Armaan left the cabin while Anamika, Armaan's mom and Riddhima sat down on the couch in Armaan's cabin.
"Armaan what are you trying to do?" Vijay asked Armaan once they were out of the cabin.
"Dad can't you see how she dresses up. She looks downright dumb and I have to make sure that along with her work her appearance too is good enough to represent my magazine."
"Armaan stop behaving like an idiot. Its her work that matters and not her appearance and you saw yesterday how smart she is so stop trying to change her. Armaan she is like a daughter to me and I will not tolerate you treating her like this and I also know that you made her to work in a store room. I am ashamed of you. Is this how professional you are?"
"I know dad I was wrong and I have got her cabin right next to mine ready for her. She will be moved there today but dad the way she dresses up...
Vijay raised his hand cutting off Armaan and spoke in a very firm voice
"No Armaan!!! I want no arguments about that. Riddhima will dress up however she likes and you will not say anything to her. Is that understood?"
"Yes dad."
"Good."
Just when the two men had ended their conversation the door to Armaan's cabin opened and Armaan saw his mom walk out of the cabin wiping her eyes and he frowned....it looked like she had been crying and when he saw Riddhima he realized that she too looked upset.
Vijay placed his hand around Amanika's shoulder and asked her "So are we going to the doctor now?"
Anamika smiled through her tears and nodded her head.
"What?? Mom finally agreed to go to the doctor." Armaan raised his eyebrows in shock. He and his father had been trying to get his mom to agree to get herself operated for the tumor she had inside her brain but she had refused. She was just not ready to get the operation done or see the doctor for that matter. She wanted to leave things in god's hands.
Anamika smiled at him and spoke cupping Riddhima's face "Meri beti ne mujhe mana liya...iski baat main taal he nahee sakti." With that she kissed Riddhima's forehead who smiled and just than Armaan saw a tear fall out of her eye. Anamika wiped it off and spoke in a firm voice "Ab bilkul rona nahee. Hum haina aur dekh maine teri baat bhi maan le."
Riddhima smiled at her while Armaan looked at the bond his mother shared with Riddhima. He had never visited India and thus knew nothing about Riddhima or her family. He had never met them but had heard a lot about them and was now seeing how intense the bond and love was between them.
But it was a good thing that Riddhima managed to get his mom to agree for the operation and he would be grateful to her always.
He heard Riddhima say to his mom "Maa aap apna khyal rakhiyega. I'll come and see you in the evening."
Anamika nodded and smiling cheekily spoke "Vo to tu aaegi he aakhir Amar jo aa raha hai." Riddhima lowered her eyes and blushed while Armaan frowned in confusion but before he could ask any questions his parents left the place. He turned to Riddhima and asked her "Whose Amar?"
"My fiance." Riddhima told Armaan and tuning around she walked back to his cabin to get the files.
PART-4
"Riddhima how did you got mom to agree to the operation? She was quite adamant about not getting the operation done." Armaan followed Riddhima inside the cabin. He didn't know why but after seeing how she had convinced his mom to agree for the operation...he was developing a liking for her and wanted to talk to her so he asked the first question that came to his mind.
"Actually when my mom and dad had died, your parents were there with me and Atul bhai. They both supported us and helped us come out of the grief and at that time maa, your mom had promised me that she'll always be there with me and will do everything I say and today I reminded her of her promise and got her to agree for the operation." She smiled at Armaan and turned around to pick up the files while Armaan stood, nodding his head, digesting the information.
"Thanks Riddhima." He finally spoke
"Thanks? For what?"
"For whatever you did...I mean you know mom really needs to get the ope'.
"I did that for my own selfish reasons sir. Maa means a lot to me. I cannot afford to loose her. I see my mom in her. I came to London because of her only so you don't have to thank me for anything." She picked up the files and walked out of his cabin leaving Armaan in his thoughts.
'She calls my mom'maa'. They both really love each other and I was wrong about Riddhima....she is a really nice girl...and maybe I should apologies to her for being rude...she is good for our company as well...or maybe I should drop the apology and offer to take her home with me instead...that would make up for it.'
Armaan muttering to himself walked towards the store room where Riddhima was working.
"Riddhima." Riddhima looked up at him.
He moved inside and picked up the files and spoke "Gather your stuff and follow me."
He walked out of the room with the files in his hand. Riddhima wondered what he was up to and if he was going to finally throw her out....she shook her head and decided to just follow him and so she gathered her stuff and followed him. She saw him going towards his cabin. They both entered inside and from there she saw Armaan open the glass door in the wall right in front of his desk and from there they entered another cabin and Armaan placed the files on the desk and turning towards Riddhima he spoke "This is your cabin. I am extremely sorry for making you work in that dirty place."
"Its okay and this cabin is really nice." They both smiled at each other.
"Riddhima..uh...we'll be going to the meeting together. And than I'll take you to my place since you have to be there for dinner.." when Armaan saw that she was going to protest he quickly spoke "please don't say no. I have been pretty rude with you and I have been feeling guilty so let me do this small thing for you. Please."
Riddhima nodded her head with a blank expression. He smiled and left the cabin while Riddhima stared at his retreating back , blinking her eyes several times and than she pinched herself trying to make sure if it was all real or not. He had never spoken so nicely to anyone. In fact he was quite famous for his rude and cold behavior with everyone. He was known for his arrogance. She shrugged and picking up her pen got down to work.
Armaan looked at Riddhima sitting in her cabin. Her desk, where she was sitting was clearly visible from his seat behind his desk. Unknowingly his face was lit up with a smile when he saw her crossing her legs on the chair, her usual style. She was chewing on the cap of her pen, frowning at something she was reading in the file and a strand of her hair was constantly falling on her face...every time it would fall on her face, she would roll it in her finger and would move it behind her ear...Armaan's smiled widened as he saw her doing that after every 10-15 seconds. She smiled at something and putting her pen down took off her spectacles and rubbing her eyes she looked up and there eyes met. Armaan was startled at the sudden contact with the beautiful darkeyes...she smiled at him and recovering himself he smiled right back. She lowered her eyes and got back to reading another file.
After an hour Armaan entered Riddhima's cabin and spoke, "Riddhima are you ready? We have to leave for the meeting."
"Yes sir."
***************
They both walked out of the building and they walked towards Armaan's black Aston Martin. Armaan opened the passenger door for her. She sat inside and when Armaan got into the drivers seat she exclaimed "This car is beautiful."
"I know. Its my sweetheart." Armaan grinned proudly and Riddhima saw the dimples on his cheek. She had seen them for the first time and she noticed that his dimples added an extra charm to his good looks. She smiled back and Armaan started the car and Riddhima explained what all she had prepared for the meeting to him. By the time she had finished explaining the whole thing they reached the hotel.
"Hey Henry." Armaan extended his hand towards the company owner they were working for and shook it gracefully. He sat down across him and as he sat down, Henry's eyes fell on Riddhima and he frowned and spoke "Where is Riddhima?"
Riddhima's smile fell and she turned towards Armaan who was shaking his head.
Obviously Henry, who had seen the sexy hot Riddhima on the presentation failed to recognize her in the desi outfit of hers.
"I am Riddhima." Riddhima spoke with a tinge of irritation in her voice.
Henry walked closer to where she was standing and extending his hands he took off her glasses and broke into a smile "Of course you are Riddhima. But you look so different. Your outfit is different, your hair are tied though they look a lot better when you leave them open, and you don't have that hot red lipstick on and the biggest change are your specs. The first thing that I had noticed about you were your eyes .I don't think I'll ever forget them. you have beautiful eyes Riddhima. Please do me a favour and don't wear them till you are with me." he winked at her and gave her a smile good naturedly to her while Riddhima smiled at him and his hand went to his heart and he spoke flirtatiously "and oh god that smile."
Riddhima burst out of laughing at his antics. Armaan, whose existence was conveniently forgotten, narrowed his eyes at them. He had a good feeling that if Henry didn't stop flirting with Riddhima he'll punch him bad. He didn't know why but he wasn't liking it one bit. He was behaving like some idiotic teenager talking to his crush. He cleared his throat and Henry turned towards him and spoke "Oh sorry Mr. Malik I totally forgot you but this is what happens when you have such a beautiful lady with you, you are always sidelined while she takes away all the attention."
Riddhima raised her eyebrow at Henry hearing him address her as 'beautiful lady' and as if reading her mind he spoke "I think you look better today than you looked that day. You don't have to put in any efforts to look beautiful. Okay I should stop before I get carried away. Lets order lunch and than you can explain me your plans."
Armaan fumed at Henry throughout the lunch. He was silent the whole time while Riddhima and Henry talked about the whole assignment with Henry flirting with Riddhima in between. Armaan was disgusted with his behavior, he was supposed to behave like a professional. Armaan cursed him under his breath and than he looked towards Riddhima who to him seemed to be having a wonderful time. He was angry on her as well. To Armaan's relief after what seemed like a lifetime the lunch got over and standing up he shook Henry's hand stiffly and exchanging a few words he and Riddhima left the place.
Riddhima was following Armaan when they were walking towards his car when he suddenly turned around towards her and spoke, "Riddhima what were you doing?" Riddhima looked quizzically at him.
"He was flirting with you and you didn't even discourage him."
"He wasn't flirting with me."
"Of course he was. Look I am just warning you okay. Henry isn't what he seems to be...he has a bad reputation." Armaan knew what he was saying was absolutely ridiculous but he just wanted Riddhima to stay away from Henry.
"Why are you telling me all this?" Riddhima asked him puzzled by the sudden change in him.
"So that....you know...he has been flirting with you and....uh....
Riddhima understood what Armaan was implying at. She lifted her hand in front of his face and turning it around she spoke "I am engaged sir." she stated it simply but firmly hoping he would get the point and he did only too well and suddenly he felt a pang inside his heart as he realized that if not Henry than somebody else, but someone already had made his claim on her.
Riddhima gupta, the beautiful Riddhima gupta was already taken and there was nothing he could do about it.
He sighed and spoke "I am sorry Riddhima but my intentions was to warn you, not to offend you and I am sorry if I did that in any way."
"I know that sir and I am not offended. I think we should leave." She walked towards the car while Armaan tried to shirk away the alien feelings he was getting. He shivered with the turmoil of emotions inside him and when he was sure he had taken possession of himself and was calm he walked to the car.
**********
Armaan and Riddhima reached Armaan's place and Riddhima's eyes landed on the palatial house. She got out of the car and looked at the whole house with a dazed expression and whispered slowly "Its beautiful."
Armaan smiled at her and spoke "Mom designed it herself. Its her pride."
They exchanged warm smiles and than walked inside the house. They walked through the long corridor to the living room. Riddhima was mesmerized with the beautiful, intricate designs done on the wall. They walked inside the living room and Riddhima noticed the French furniture, the exquisite chandeliers. Everything was perfect.
Anamika placed her arm around Riddhima's shoulder and they both sat down.
"How was the meeting?" Vijay asked them. Riddhima waited for Armaan to respond but when he didn't she answered "It was great. Henry liked all the plans and we are going to begin the work soon." Vijay nodded and than he spoke in a serious tone "Riddhima, the operation is tomorrow. You'll be coming right?"
"Of course I will. Baba you don't have to worry. I am confident that everything will work out fine."
"I hope so Riddhima." Vijay sighed.
"Okay please stop discussing about the operation. No more depressing talk." Anamika interrupted them and spoke cheerfully and just than they heard the door opening and Riddhima stood up seeing the person walking in and whispered 'Amar'.
Armaan turned around and his eyes fell on a man, as tall as him, well-built and a charming face. He walked towards Riddhima and hugged her. Armaan saw Riddhima's face glowing with happiness and a sudden peace had settled there.
And Armaan with a weird feeling of loss, realized that Riddhima loved Amar a lot.
Amar touched everyone's feet and turning towards Armaan he smiled and spoke "Armaan Malik right? Heard a lot about you. I am all admiration for you and all that you have achieved." Armaan smiled and shook his hand.
They all settled down and Anamika asked Amar, "When do you guys plan to get married?"
"In another 6 months. I am working with a software company here and once I am properly settled we'll get married."
Amar smiled at Riddhima who lowered her eyes.
Part-5
Armaan paced his room trying to decipher the sudden change in his feelings towards Riddhima. When he had seen her in the washroom that day...he knew he was attracted towards her which is quite natural as she is very beautiful and any man could be attracted towards her. No big deal but than today when he saw the bond between her and his family he felt some kind of warmth towards her...fine..some warmth or maybe genuine liking that's it.... but why was it that suddenly he was having this weird feeling of loss on knowing that Riddhima is engaged to be married to another man. He had been angry at Henry for flirting with her. Why did he care? Than when he had seen Amar and her together he hadn't liked it.
What was this new kind of feeling? Maybe mom could tell.
Armaan walked out of his room and went to his mom who was sitting in the balcony staring towards the sky.
"Mom we need to talk." Anamika turned around at the sudden interruption and looked at Armaan whose forehead was creased with worry and he had looked very pale at dinner time as well and had been really snappy when Amar had tried to talk to him.
"What is it Armaan?"
"Mom what does it mean when a person starts to have all kinds of weird sensations in him seeing another person happy with someone else?"
"Seriously what?? Armaan I didn't get a single word of what you just said." Anamika frowned at him in confusion.
"Mommmm!!!...okay lets say there is this guy who is attracted towards a girl but just attracted because she is very good looking but suddenly his feelings change...suddenly here means in a day okay....when he sees another guy flirting with her...he feels really angry at that guy and than when he sees this girl with her fianc he feels this sense of loss inside...What should this guy do mom?"
Anamika looked carefully at Armaan and spoke "Who is this girl Armaan?"
"What??"
"This girl Armaan....who you are in love with?"
Armaan turned his face away from his mother and spoke "What girl'there is no gi'."
He stopped mid-sentence and than turning around with great force he faced his mom and spoke in a loud voice "WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY???'..LOVE???YOU MEAN I AM IN LOVE??"
Anamika tried to hide her smile at her son's innocent confession and than nodding her head she spoke "Ya it seems to me that the you are really in love...oops I mean THIS guy is really in love." Armaan shook his head vigorously and than without saying anything he left the room and banged into his father on his way out.
"Sorry dad." He mumbled a quick apology and was about to walk away when he suddenly turned around and gripped his father's shoulders and looking into his eyes he spoke "Dad is it possible to fall in love with someone in five minutes?"
"What?? What kind of a stupid question is this?" Vijay looked up at his son and frowned in confusion.
"Dad just answer my question."
"Ya love at first sight does happen."
"NO...No...No....this is not love at first sight...actually this happened suddenly...like out of the blue...one day he is attracted towards her than the next day he is irritated at her and also yells at her but than later the same day he realizes he loves her. Is it possible? What should the guy do?" Armaan was frantic to have answers. Vijay looked thoughtful and than irritated and spoke "No it is not possible and the guy need a psychiatrist. He is loosing his sanity. One moment he is angry than he is in love....gosh!! that's crazy."
"You mean am crazy?" Armaan spoke angrily.
Vijay narrowed his eyes at Armaan and than he realized that Armaan was talking about himself and he was about to say something when Armaan raised his hand and spoke "Its okay dad...you need rest." He was about to walk away when his father spoke in a demanding voice "Who is this girl you are talking about Armaan?"
"What dad?? Look I need to go okay. We'll talk tomorrow morning."
Vijay looked at Armaan's retreating back and trying to make head and tail of whatever Armaan had told him about the change in his emotions....attraction irritation....yelling'.than love....."Riddhima!!" Vijay whispered to himself realizing that the only one who fit's the bill is Riddhima.
Her changed appearance on the conference day...Armaan yelling at her this morning and than he brought her home himself and was extremely sweet and polite towards her. He didn't know whether to be happy or upset...happy because Armaan chose Riddhima and sad because she was very much engaged to another guy. He decided to leave Armaan alone. He hoped his son would come out of the mess unscathed.
*********
Armaan sat in his car next morning and before leaving he decided he'll ignore Riddhima and would pay attention to other woman in the office and that would definitely help him get Riddhima out of his system.
He parked his car and was about to walk inside the office when he saw Riddhima getting off a bike and he saw the guy she was sitting behind was Amar. She kissed him on his cheek and waving him good bye she walked towards the office building while Armaan's face hardened. Riddhima saw him standing on the stairs looking at her, she smiled at him but Armaan just turned away ignoring her and walked inside.
Riddhima stopped in her track and wondered what was wrong with Armaan and than thinking that maybe he hadn't noticed her, she continued walking towards the building.
The moment Armaan entered in his office his eyes fell on the receptionist, a brunette. She was wearing a short black skirt with white top. Armaan looked at her legs but surprisingly his gaze just slipped to the floor and he walked to his cabin without looking at anyone on his way. Riddhima entered his cabin after a short while and spoke a low "Good morning."
Armaan wanted to greet her but with an iron will he decided to stick to his resolve and ignored her. Riddhima looked at him and wondered if he had some crazy streak in him...one day he is all polite and sweet and the next day he doesn't even acknowledge her existence. She shrugged and walked to her cabin.
She got down to work trying to finish her work as soon as possible as she had promised Amar that she'll have dinner with him and for that she would have to leave early but there was a whole new presentation that she had to prepare.
Armaan saw Riddhima totally engrossed in her work and again he noticed the strand of hair falling over her face.
"It's the fault of that stupid hair...I am having these feelings because of it...she looks so sweet when she moves it behind her ear'"
Riddhima took off her glasses and began wiping them with her dupatta.
"Dam her and dam those eyes. I shouldn't have done that stupid makeover in the first place....dam me for that." He banged his hand on his desk and the table lamp clattered, shook and fell off the table and while it was falling down..one of its sharp edges pierced the edge of Armaan's wrist and Armaan cursed under his breath. Riddhima heard the noise and looked towards Armaan and saw him holding his wrist...she got up from her chair and rushed towards him. She saw blood coming out of his wrist.
"SIR!!!" She exclaimed and rushing back to her cabin she took out a first aid box and carried it to his desk. Placing it on the desk she took hold of his wrist and taking out a cotton she started cleaning the cut. She was bending over Armaan, the front of her loose kammez came down a little exposing her cleavage...Armaan looked away and than abruptly stood up knowing that if he did she too would have to stand up and so she did...she looked up at him and spoke softly "I know it must hurt but just give me a second'I'll clean it and bandage it."
Pouring some antiseptic liquid on the cotton she cleaned Armaan's cut and taking out a bandage she wrapped it around his wound while Armaan kept looking at her. He heard her speak "There you go. Does it feel better?" Armaan kept staring at her and than extending his hand forwards he was about to push back the strand of hair falling on her face when a knock resounded on the door of the cabin. Turning towards it they both saw Henry stepping inside. He looked at them and noticed Riddhima holding Armaan's bandaged hand, the first aid box on the desk.
"Is everything alright?" Henry asked in a concerned voice.
"Ya just a minor cut." Armaan spoke in a careless voice and than indicating the chair he spoke "Come on in Henry. Have a seat." Henry nodded and took his place in the chair.
"I'll get the files." Riddhima went into her cabin.
She gave all the details to Henry regarding the fashion show they were supposed to put up. She looked at Armaan who was lost in his own thoughts.
Henry checked everything and when he was satisfied they signed the necessary documents and he left. Armaan noticed that when Henry had tried to flirt with Riddhima she had discouraged him in a very subtle way. This gave him some satisfaction that at least she had taken his advice.
When Henry had left Riddhima looked at Armaan and spoke "Sir I have finished my work and I was wondering if I can leave now?"
"Seems like you have some plans for the evening."
"No nothing like that. Its just that I have finished my work so I thought...
"Good coz we have to go somewhere." Armaan cut her off abruptly. Though the meeting was just for him..he still wanted to take her along. He just wanted her to not go home and be with Amar. He knew that what he was doing was absolutely ridiculous but it was giving him a perverse pleasure thinking that she would be with him instead of Amar.
"Where do we have to go sir?" Riddhima asked him in a disappointed voice.
"We have to meet the MD of Jaison and Jayson company. Cummon now hurry up. I'll wait downstairs for you."
Armaan didn't wait for her reply and simply walked out of the cabin.
***********
They were driving towards their destination when Armaan suddenly asked her
"Riddhima how did you and Amar meet?"
At the mention of Amar's name her face lit up and she spoke excitedly "We have been friends since college. I never made friends but with Amar I always felt so comfortable and at ease and he would always make me laugh and slowly we grew really close than he proposed to me and I said yes. We had a small engagement party and now soon we'll get married." Armaan could see how excited she was about her marriage and how happy she was with Amar. He nodded his head and turned his attention back to the road. It was raining outside and was getting really dark. Suddenly his cell rang and Armaan stopped his car on a corner.
"Hello...yes....oh okay...no...no problem....good night."
He placed the cell back and turning towards Riddhima he spoke "The meeting is cancelled. I'll drop you home." Riddhima nodded her head and wondered if she could still have dinner with Amar. Armaan drove towards her home and dropped her outside her home. He noticed that the house wasn't big but was pretty and had a beautiful garden outside it. He bid her goodnight and left.
He was just a small distance away when it started to rain and Armaan sighed as he noticed how romantic the whether was and he wished Riddhima was with him. He turned towards the passenger seat where she had been sitting a while ago. He was looking at it when his eyes fell on a handbag lying under the seat and he realized that it belonged to Riddhima. He quickly turned his car and decided he'll return it to her.
He reached her place and was about to ring her cell and ask her to come down and get her purse when he noticed somebody standing in the garden. He rolled down his window and narrowed his eyes and noticed that it was Riddhima. Her arms were outstretched and she was facing the sky...feeling the water drops on her face. She reached for her rubber band and took it off and shook her head from one side to another. The wet strand of hair fell over her face and Armaan had a sharp intake of breath. He saw her jump up and down in the water....splashing it. He got out of his car and walked closer and noticed her innocent face...her clothes clinging to her body. She took off her shoes and jumped higher in the water and danced around. Armaan forgot everything and walked towards her. He kept walking and stopped when he was standing just an inch away from her. Riddhima stopped abruptly and was startled to see Armaan standing there.
Armaan looked into her eyes and than his gaze fell on her wet lips. He moved closer and his body brushed against her...he lost control...he extended his hand forward and cupping Riddhima's face he placed his lips onto hers.
PART-6
Riddhima pushed Armaan away with all the force she could muster.
"How dare you?"
Armaan looked at her angry face and his eyes widened as he realized what he had done. He quickly changed his expression to a one of incredulous shock and spoke, "Oh my god!! Its you??"
Riddhima looked quizzically at Armaan but was too shocked to say anything.
Armaan ran his hand through his hair and than shaking his head he spoke, "Oh god!!'.Oh god!!'...please forgive me. I am so sorry. This has been happening with me lately. Wherever I go I only see her...every person I see even objects...I see her face there. And when I saw you enjoying the rain just the way she used to...I saw her in your face and I couldn't control myself. Oh!! I am so sorry Riddhima."
"Saw who sir?" Shock had subsided and the anger fell off as curiosity took over. Riddhima believed Armaan's concocted story, the way he had said it all who wouldn't and now she was wondering who this girl is?
"Saw my girlfriend....the only woman I ever loved. Muskaan. Oh I really loved her Riddhima....no actually I still love her...will always love her but she left me for another man. She cheated on me and I was so broken and devastated but she ruthlessly walked over my heart and didn't care about my pain even for a second" Miraculously Armaan had tears in his eyes and for the first time Armaan thought of trying his hand in acting. Being the soft and kind hearted girl, Riddhima couldn't stop herself from placing her hand on his shoulder and spoke in her softest voice, "Sir please control yourself."
Armaan nodded and moving forward he placed his head on Riddhima's shoulder and when she didn't object he slowly hugged her and though he sensed her going stiff he didn't break the hug instead tightened his hold around her and acted as if he was sobbing. Riddhima wanted to push him back but seeing his broken condition she thought it would be too cruel to do that and on the on the other hand Armaan was grinning and patting himself mentally for handling the situation so smartly and now to have her in his arms was a bonus.
Riddhima slowly and gentally broke the hug and spoke in the same soft tone, "Sir I think you should go home. Its getting late."
He nodded and picked up her purse which had fallen from his hand when he had grabbed her face to kiss her. He handed it to her and without saying another word left the place. Riddhima looked at her purse and felt guilty and thought that it was because of her that the whole thing happened. Reproaching herself, she turned around and went inside her home.
Armaan sat down in his car and touched his lips. He wanted the feeling of her lips to remain there forever.
"Maybe I am just lusting after her. Maybe I should **** her and than I'll be able to get her out of my head...maybe it really is love or else it wouldn't feel so good." he smiled and remembered how her lips had felt...soft and delicate under his hard ones and than how he had pressed her body against his.
"I never knew I can act this well." He ruffled his hair and smiling he drove back to his house.
****************
Riddhima took off her wet clothes and got under the shower and she didn't even notice that the water was ice cold. She was too caught up in the emotions rising in her. The kiss, she would never forget that, the powerful and fierce lips that had almost crushed her soft ones. It was a frightening experience. She had nothing to compare it with since it was for the first time a man had kissed her. Hers and Amar's relationship was very strong but it still hadn't reached that level yet and they had never felt the need to be close physically...a quick kiss or a tender hug was all they ever needed but today when Armaan had kissed her, more than being offended she had been scared with the power of his masculine lips over hers. Riddhima shuddered with the memory and than she shivered again but this time with cold and she realized that how cold the water was. She quickly turned off the shower and getting out of it she wrapped herself in her towel and as she walked out of her bathroom she sneezed and her eyes watered and she quickly wore her night clothes and got into her bed.
***************
Armaan paced his cabin, wringing his fingers and glancing at the door every now and than. Riddhima hadn't shown up and he was wondering if she had decided to resign because of what happened last night but it had looked as if she had believed his story so why didn't she come to the office.
He was getting frantic. He wanted to call and ask but was afraid that she might yell at him or worse it might look as if he was too eager to meet her and was worried about her absence which he shouldn't be since she is just an employee.
"I should just tell her that I love her and get over with the whole drama. Its so bloody frustrating but what would she do...she would probably kick me and than the job or she might laugh at me and I would end up making a fool out of myself. No I can't tell her the truth...heck I am not even sure its love. But for now I am going to call her and ask her why she is not here and I'll be stern to make it look totally professional'"
Muttering to himself he reached for his cell and called Riddhima's cell.
After a couple of second he heard someone's voice on the other line....he didn't recognize the voice.
"Who is it?" He heard the person say.
"Err..is this Riddhima gupta's number?"
"Yes it is. May I know whose on the line?"
"Armaan...Armaan Malik, I am Rid..
"Oh Mr. Malik this is Riddhima's brother Atul here. I should have informed you about her not coming to work but it totally slipped out of my mind...I am sorry. Actually she is down with fever and won't be able to come today. "
"Oh!! What happened. I hope its nothing too serious."
"Oh!! No I think she'll be fine by tomorrow. But right now she needs rest."
"Okay. Let her take rest and don't let her bother with work...I'll handle."
Armaan ended the call and his brows furrowed with anxiety. He wanted to see her....he had to see her...he will see her....and with that he moved out of his office, grabbing his car keys.
**********
"What were you thinking getting wet in the rain like that?" Amar, sitting next to Riddhima on her bed, reproached her for her stupidity.
Riddhima just moaned and shifted slightly in her bed feeling the headache and the pain in her body.
"Riddhima!!" Riddhima's eyes opened wide as she heard Armaan's voice and looking at her right she saw him standing there looking at her.....and was that concern on his face'....Riddhima wondered why he was so bothered.
"Mr. Malik please have a seat." Amar moved a chair near Riddhima's bed for him to sit.
"Sir, you shouldn't have come. I am fine. Oh!! You shouldn't have left all the work to be here."
"You look really ill Riddhima and you are saying that you are fine. Good that I came and anyways being your boss also I am responsible...err....ya the company needs to take care of its employees."
He shifted uncomfortably in the chair. Of course he shouldn't have come especially when Atul had told him that Riddhima will be fine by the next day but no he had to make a fool of himself. Armaan reproached himself but somewhere inside he felt good that he came to see Riddhima as it made him feel closer to her.
"Please don't tell Ma and baba about this or else they'll be really worried." Armaan looked at her and nodded his head.
They heard Amar's cell buzzing and he excused himself and left the room.
"Riddhima I hope you have forgiven me about yesterday..
"Of course. I told you last night itself that its okay and please forget all that." Riddhima felt uncomfortable discussing the incident again and so she looked away.
Armaan looked at her face, pale with the illness but even than she looked pretty to him.
"Riddz sweetheart I am really sorry but I have got to drop some files at the office. It will take me just 15 minutes and I'll be back and by the time Atul too will come back. Mr. Malik I hope you don't mind staying here for 15minutes. I can't leave Riddhima alone here please."
"Of course I have no problem."
"Thank you so much and here Riddhima finish this soup and take your medicines." Amar placed the soup on a small table on her bed and moving forward he kissed her on her head and nodding to Armaan he left the room.
Riddhima moved on her elbows in order to get up but was feeling a little pain in her body. Armaan saw her face twist with pain. He moved forward and grabbed her arms and helped her up. When she was seated comfortably she looked up to thank him but seeing his face so close to hers she stiffened while Armaan gazed at her face looking even better from this close. His hands were still on her arm and he moved his finger a little and the cotton shirt of her night suit slipped off her right shoulder. Armaan's eyes fell on her naked shoulder and he moved his hand towards it to move the sleeve back but as his hand came in contact with the soft skin on her shoulder he couldn't help himself and he found himself caressing her naked skin with his thumb. Riddhima closed her eyes as she felt the totally alien but new sensation gripping her body.
"Ahem...Ahem" Riddhima pushed back Armaan's hand and pulled up her sleeve as she heard someone's voice but it was too late the person had already seen the little scene between them.
Part-7
Riddhima looked towards the door and sighed in relief. "Bhabhi." Than she spoke frowning at her, "I thought you were with bhai. What are you doing here?"
"Ya I was but Amar told me that he had to leave so we came back a little early. Why you have a problem?"
Riddhima's face reddened knowing what her bhabhi was referring to. She heard her bhabhi say to Armaan, "Hi! I am Anjali, Riddhima's bhabhi and Atul's wife." Armaan looked at Anjali who was a lot taller than Riddhima....fair complexion, black shoulder length straight hair, slender frame and black eyes with a well shaped nose and firm chin.
"I am Armaan and its good to meet you."
"Same here." Anjali turned towards Riddhima and spoke "Riddhima you better finish the soup before it gets cold." Riddhima nodded her head and was about to place the spoon of soup in her mouth when Armaan stood up and spoke, "I think I should leave. I have got a meeting to attend. Hope you get well soon Riddhima and don't worry about work...I'll manage." Riddhima nodded and smiled at Armaan who than left the room with Anjali following him out.
When they had left the room Riddhima got back to her soup but suddenly she dropped the spoon and getting out of bed she rushed towards the door where she saw Anjali closing the door. Riddhima quickly ran towards the door and opening it she rushed out and when she saw Armaan she yelled, "SIR!!"
Armaan quickly turned around and frowned when he saw Riddhima standing there barefoot in the thin cotton gown...he rushed back to her but before she could say anything he grabbed her hand and pushed her inside the house and closed the door behind him and looking angrily at her he spoke, "What do you think you are doing? You already have a cold...standing outside barefoot in this cotton dress...you trying to catch your death or what?"
Riddhima realized he was right but she suddenly looked up and before he could scold her anymore she spoke quickly, "But sir I just remembered maa has her operation today and I had promised to be there with her. I have to be with her."
Armaan looked incredulously at her...the girl is crazy, he thought...she has a massive cold, she looks so pale but still she wants to go out.
"Riddhima I don't think you should go. You already are ill and this way your health is going to be spoiled further and mom wouldn't like this either."
"But sir I really have to go and...and I will go."
Armaan sensed the firm and adamant note in her voice but he couldn't allow her to go out in that state so he too stood his ground. "Riddhima you can't go. You need rest.
"But sir this way I am going to be restless the whole time till the operation emds. I have to be with her" and than after pausing a little she spoke a little slowly in a low voice, "I have a right to be there. You can't stop me."
Armaan was about to say something when Anjali cut him off. "Give up Armaan. She is not going to listen anything and she has a right to be there, she and Anamika aunty share a bond we can't understand so its better we stay out of it."
Than she turned towards Riddhima and spoke "Alright Riddhima you can go but I am not sure how Anamika aunty is going to react when she comes to know that you are ill and still came to see her."
"You don't worry I'll handle her."
Armaan looked at Riddhima's smiling face. She was happy just because she was getting to be with his mom.
"Riddhima you can change and take your medicines, drink your soup...do all that you need to and I'll pick you up within 2 hours...because there is still plenty time for the operation to start and I'll be able to finish my work as well."
"But sir you don't have to...
"Riddhima, no arguments. I am not allowing you to come yourself. I'll pick you up."
Riddhima nodded her head and Armaan left.
Anjali turned towards Riddhima and taking her back to her room, she wrapped the blanket around her and than pulling a chair in front of her she spoke with her tongue in her cheek, "Alright babe spill...
"What bhabhi? What are you talking about?"
"Don't try to act innocent with me. What's going on between you and your boss?"
Riddhima's eyes widened and she spoke hesitantly' "I don't know what you are talking about?"
"Look Riddhima, I saw that scene between you two...do I have to spell it out for you....you are no kid Riddhima and I know I should not be interfering like this but there is a lot to the world that you have not seen yet and I just don't want you to land in any trouble and guys like Armaan Malik can be real trouble besides you have a fianc."
Riddhima stood up abruptly letting the blanket fall off her shoulders and spoke indignantly "Bhabhi please. I don't understand what you mean so let me just make one thing very clear...there is nothing between me and Armaan sir and I love Amar and we are getting married within 6 months."
Anjali sighed and placing her hand on Riddhima's shoulder she spoke, "Okay fine,agreed but if there is ever something you want to talk about let me know. I am always here for you."
Riddhima nodded and smiled at her. Than Anjali walked towards Riddhima's cupboard and pulling out a black t-shirt and blue jeans she handed it to Riddhima.
"You can wear this today. it's a lot more warm than your salwaar kameez and it will be comfortable as well and suitable since you'll have to stay in the hospital for sometime."
Riddhima took the clothes and went to change.
**********
"Bhabhi where is Riddhima?" Amar walked into the kitchen and asked Anjali.
"She is in the washroom. She is changing her clothes."
"But why? The doctor told her to rest. Please don't tell me that she is going to work."
"No, Amar. She told us about Anamika aunty's operation...that's where she is going."
"Oh okay but whose going to drop her. I have work to do and Atul bhai too is leaving for his tour."
"Armaan is going to be here. He is going to take her to the hospital since he too has to be there."
Amar looked thoughtful and than he spoke carefully "Bhabhi I don't know how to say this but I don't exactly understand Riddhima's boss. Its maybe my possessive side getting the better of me but I have a feeling that Armaan takes more than professional interest in Riddhima."
Anjali's brow furrowed and she wondered what she was supposed to tell him. There was no way she could tell him about the little thing that she saw between Armaan and Riddhima but there has to be something between them if Amar too had noticed. She turned towards him and found him lost in his thought.
"I don't know if there is anything between them Amar but I guess we should just trust Riddhima."
Amar looked shocked and he spoke incredulously, "Bhabhi I never said there is anything between them. I know Riddhima...she will never betray me. I was just doubting Armaan but never Riddhima bhabhi. I love her way too much to doubt her ever."
"I am sorry Amar. I didn't mean to offend you and you are right, Riddhima isn't that kind of a girl. We don't need to worry and if there will be anything than she'll let us know."
Amar nodded his head at her and left the kitchen while Anjali sighed in relief and muttered to herself , "Phew...close escape."
**********
"Thank you so much sir for coming here to pick me up." Riddhima spoke when she was seated next to him in his car.
Armaan looked towards her and liked what he saw. She looked really cute in her black t-shirt and the baggy loose jeans with her specs gone and her hair loosely tied. He smiled at her and drove towards the hospital.
"Riddhima!!!" Anamika's face lit up as soon as she saw Riddhima. Riddhima saw her lying on the hospital bed in the blue hospital gown looking pale....She hugged her lightly and placing a kiss on Anamika's forehead she spoke in an emotional voice, "Maa everything is going to be fine...don't worry and fight with all your strength." Anamika nodded her head but didn't speak anything afraid that she might break down. Just than the doctor came inside and told them all to leave. They wheeled Anamika to the operation theatre while Vijay, Armaan and Riddhima sat outside. Riddhima sat next to Vijay and placed her arm around his shoulder.
"Baba don't worry maa is going to be perfectly alright."
"I know." He smiled at her and squeezed her hand but than he frowned and spoke in a shocked way, "Riddhima!! You have a fever."
Riddhima bit her lower lip and removing her hand from under his she looked apologetic.
"I know but its nothing major and I'll be fine. Please baba don't send me back...I want to be here with you and maa....please."
Vijay looked at her and shook his head disapprovingly but he didn't say anything knowing that it would be of no use since she too loved Anamika a lot and it would be unfair to send her back. When he didn't say anything she looked towards Armaan who smiled at her and signaled her with his eyes that it was okay. She smiled back and they all settled back to wait for the operation to get over.
After the operation got over the doctor stepped out and they all rushed to him. The doctor smiled at them and spoke "Congratulations. Mrs. Malik is absolutely fine but a little weak so you just have to take care of her. You can go inside and see her though she is under the effect of the sedative...but she'll be conscious within 30-40 minutes and than we'll shift her to a private ward."
Vijay thanked the doctor and he and Riddhima walked inside the OT while Armaan stayed with the doctor to complete all the formalities.
Vijay and Riddhima looked at Anamika who was frowning in her sleep. Vijay caressed her forehead with his thumb to remove the lines of anxiety from there...she moved a little and as if responding to his touch the lines did disappear. Riddhima clutched Vijay's hand, her eyes brimming with tears...she kissed Anamika's hand which had a drip attached to it. Her tears fell on the hand and Vijay wrapped his hand around her shoulder.
Armaan came back but stopped on the threshold watching the emotional scene between them and his face was covered with a sad smile.
"This is where she belongs....this is where you belong Riddhima."
Okay i know the part is short and much delayed and i am so sorry about it but the meds keeping me down...but i promise i'll try and update regularly with the length increased...till than i hope you liked this part. Do leave a comment
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