Pyaar Ka Pal - Completed - Page 4

Pyaar Ka Pal: Part 34

Angad was in the garden, strolling that night when Shahid caught up with him. The two friends walked across the grass in silence when Angad finally spoke. "Shahid, what's going on between you and Kripa?" Shahid tried not to smile, and then finally answered.

"What's happening between us? Nothing is." Shahid replied, halting. "And what do you mean what's happening between us?" A grin covered his face.

"I mean… nothing."

"Angad what have you though about your future, Kripa's future?" Shahid asked.

Angad didn't reply for sometime and Shahid didn't ask again, but Shahid was shocked when he heard his answer.

"I'm going to divorce Kripa." He said. Shahid stopped and turned Angad around.

"In hell you're going to divorce Kripa!" He screamed. "You won't even do that in your dreams Angad. For gods sake what's her fault that you're putting his life in such a mess?"

Angad looked at Shahid, "Shahid, why do you care about Kripa so much? I've been noticing, you have been neglecting everything for her, almost as if you-"

"That's enough Angad, really. This was all a fake act between Kripa and I, to make you feel angry and jealous, or actually just to see how you would react. And give me one good reason why you want to divorce Kripa. And don't, don't say you don't love her because I will kill you!" Shahid stood there just looking at Angad, waiting for his answer. "Will you say something now?"

"Fine! I want to divorce Kripa because she hates me, she can't stand me, because she wants to see me hurt, she hates me Shahid, she hates me! And I can't live with her seeing hate in her eyes for me, and I can't hurt her back. That's why I want to divorce her. I want her to live her life the way she wants. With whom she wants." Angad yelled when he saw her sitting in a wheel chair with Anjali behind her. Tears ran down her eyes, and it started to rain over them. Angad and Kripa needed a moment with each other, Anjali and Shahid left Kripa and Angad. After a few minutes Kripa stood up, struggling to stay on her feet. And with pain in her feet she walked to Angad, and just threw her arms around him. She stood there crying, waiting for Angad to embrace her back. But it never happened, Angad never embraced her back.

******

Angad sat in the plane with Shahid sleeping next to him, thinking about everything that happened. A tear trickled down Angad's eye, when he saw a small kid on the other side just looking at him, sadly. The little kid walked to Angad, and Angad bent down. The little boy wiped the tears off Angad's face, and kissed him. Angad picked up the little kid and hugged him tightly, crying even more now. The little kid pulled away from Angad and wiped his tears once again.

"Why are you crying?" He asked Anagd in his kid, immature voice.

"Because I think I have hurt someone who loves me a lot." Angad answered.

"You should kiss and say sorry." The little boy told Angad.

"I think I will do that."

"Will you really Angad?" Shahid asked. Angad kissed the little boy and buckled him up in his seat again, and then went back to his seat. "Angad will you really do that?" He asked again.

"Maybe." Angad replied.

"Maybe, still maybe. God knows what's going happen to you." Shahid said closing his eyes again.

"Shahid." Angad started.

"What?" Shahid said with his eyes closed.

"I'm sorry." Shahid opened his eyes and smiled.

"I know you are sorry, Kripa needs to know you're sorry."

"But why should I tell her I'm sorry. Why did she say the things she did that day?" Angad said arrogantly.

Shahid rolled his eyes and closed his eyes again. "You're going to regret someday Angad."

"Shahid open your eyes will you, and tell me why Kripa said all that!" Angad said poking his ribs.

"I don't!" He yelled back.

"Shahid, I know you, and I know Kripa. And I'm stupid enough that I believed everything she said. But I need to know why."

"You are stupid Angad, but what I want to know is will you accept her if you find out why she said the things she did?"

"No I won't." Angad said sitting back.

"You are an idiot. And I don't know why she said the things she did." Shahid said closing his eyes again. Angad sat back and thought to himself, I'm sorry Shahid, and Kripa. But I just can't move on with my life. I love you Kripa, I do. I have loved you from the first time I saw you, most likely. But I can't live my life with you. It's not going to happen. I'm sorry. I can live with you married my whole life. But I can't live with you letting you know how much I love you. It just can't happen. It just can't.

*****

A week later, Kripa was in the hospital getting her foot check. It was fine and Kripa could walk now. Angad and Shahid weren't back yet. Kripa had decided she won't divorce Angad. She would let there marriage have one more chance, she would make Anagd fall in love with her. Anjali and Kripa drove back home and the two stopped at Hard Rock caf to have lunch. The two ordered just a light salad with some wine. Shahid had called Anjali everyday, twice a day. Angad hadn't called Kripa once in this whole week. "Kripa!" Anjali called. "Kripa!" She called again. Kripa snapped out of her thoughts and focused back at Anjali. "Kaha ho?"

"Sorry Anjali." Kripa said with a forced smile. "I was just thinking-"

"About Angad." Anjali said calmly. Kripa looked at her salad and played with it. "Kripa, I know your depressed because of what Angad said the other day but-"

"I'm not, I'm actually depressed that he hasn't called me once to ask me how I was." She sighed. Anjali grinned as she saw her friend's dreamy eyes.

"Your too much Kripa, I don't know how Angad manages to stay away from you."

"What do you mean?" Kripa asked sipping her wine.

"Kripa, we know for sure Angad loves you but-"

"He does?" Kripa asked putting her glass down. "How do you know, and if you know, how come I don't know he loves me?" Kripa was confused and she sat back calculating the thought in her head. "He loves me?" She asked in a confused voice again.

"Yes he does!" Anjali said.

"But why do you know this and I don't?" Kripa asked again.

"Because you my friend, are stupid." Anjali said finishing her wine. "Now hurry up and finish you salad so we can leave."

"Oh, I'm done. We can leave." They paid the bill and left.

****

"Anagd will you please start paying attention at the meeting!" Shahid yelled at Angad who was once again lost in his thoughts. "ANAGD!" He yelled again.

"What the hell is it Shahid?" He asked snapping out.

"Angad, I think you will soon be demoted to a peon if you don't quite day dreaming at the meeting. The whole week someone has had to tell you to snap out of your thoughts. And your drifting away once again, and may I please know why? ANGAD?"

"What Shahid?" He yelled again.

Shahid calmed down and sat next to Angad. "Call her Angad." Shahid said putting his hand on his knee.

"Call who Shahid?" Angad said looking away.

"My newest girl friend, yet the love of your life, Kripa. And if I'm not mistaken she is also your wife who you love a lot." Angad looked at Shahid who was grinning.

Angad stood up and picked the phone up, and then turned to face Shahid, "She's your latest girl friend- wrong. She is my life- yes, the love of my life- wrong-" Shahid cocked one eye brow and looked at Angad. "Ok fine, the love of my life- maybe, but not yes. And I love her a lot- wrong. I'm just worried Shahid."

"Uh-huh! For sure, your just worried. That's why you don't eat until I've called Anjali and asked her how Kripa was, you don't sleep all night, and most of all you never pay attention at the meetings, you have got to stop."

"Now, if you're done with your rubbish, can I call supposedly, 'the love of my life'"

"Of course you may, you don't need my permission, and after all she is your wife." Angad rolled his eyes and dialed Kripa's number. The phone rang, and rang, and rang, Angad was about to put it down when-

"Hello." Kripa said breathing heavily. Angad was just quite, almost as if some told him statue. "Hello." Still no answer. "Hello, when you don't want to talk then why do you call? I'm hanging up."

"Kripa-"

"Anagd?" Kripa sounded amused as if a celebrity had called her, the actor who she had been love with from age of five. Well it was true but it was, Angad, her husband, whom she had loved from age, say 14. And now she was 24, and he was 26.

"Um… ya."

"How are you?" She sounded so formal now, like her boss was calling.

"I'm fine, you?" Same, he sounded like Kripa was his boss and he was going to be in huge trouble soon.

"I'm good, how did you call. Any thing important?" Kripa asked, still hesitant.

"Um.. Ya, that well actually I just wanted to know if ya.. Well, um… how's Kris?" Angad looked at Shahid who slapped his hand on his head.

"He's fine." Kripa said quite confused. "Angad are you ok?"

"Ya, I'm perfectly fine."

"Is that all?" Kripa asked.

"No actually I wanted to know if…" He looked at Shahid who was hand gesturing to keep going.

"If?" Kripa asked again. "Angad are you there?"

"Ya… I'm here."

"Ok, if what?"

"I wanted to know how, um… you were, is your foot any better? Did you go to the doctor today? What did-"

"Angad breath. Hit the breaks. I'm fine, thanks for asking. My foot is perfectly fine as well. Yes I went to the doctor today, I'm happy you remembered, and he said I can go back to my normal activities. Anything else?"

"No."

"Um.. Angad."

"Yes?"

"When are you coming back?"

"Why do you ask?" Angad asked.

"Oh, I was actually asking for Anjali. She wanted to know." Kripa answered quickly.

"Oh!" Angad was disappointed. "Well, we should be back in a few days. Any thing else."

"No Angad, take care of your self."

"You too Kripa."

"Bye."

"Bye." Angad hung the phone up and turned towards the window smiling. Shahid walked up behind him and slapped his back.

"Feeling any better?"

Angad smiled, "I was never feeling bad Shahid." And he walked away.

Shahid turned around grinning, "It's happening Angad. I'm going to see to it that you guys can't live without seeing each other for even a second. I'm going make sure you guys get so close to each other, you can't live without being in each others arms. I'm going to make it happen!" He leaned against the window and smiled proudly.

****

Kripa stood holding the phone smiling when Anjali walked up and put her arm around Kripa's shoulder. "Who was it?" She asked in naughty tones.

Kripa looked at Anjali and walked away. "It was Angad." Kripa said taking her pajamas out of her closet.

"What did he say?"

"Nothing Anjali. He said absolutely nothing."

"That's great. When are they coming back?"

"In a few days." Kripa said walking into the bathroom.

"A few more days!" Anjali sighed.

Pyaar Ka Pal: Part 35

Kripa tossed on her bed all night, Kris sat on the bed unable to sleep as well and watched her toss. Kripa was Kris mother. Kris would spend most of the day with Kripa. Kripa actually couldn't wait till the time Kris called her Mom. Kripa crawled closer to Kripa and picked up her hand and started playing with it. Kripa smiled at the child and sat up taking him in her arms. "My jaan, what's wrong with you, why can't you go to sleep?" Kris stood up and then fell back into Kripa's lap. Then he turned and stood against Kripa holding her shoulders for support and then hugging her. Kripa smiled and hugged the little guy back when she found Anjali walk into the room and sit down on the bed next to Kripa. "Welcome Anjali! And please tell us why you can't sleep?"

Anjali laid back and pulled the sheets over her. "I'm really missing Shahid, stupid, idiot, he had to join the FBI, and couldn't he pick something better." She wined.

Kripa giggled upon seeing her friend so restless.

"Anjali, it's only the matter of a few days, he will be back soon."

"Kripa, lets call them?!" Anjali asked picking the phone up.

"Go ahead." Kripa said putting Kris down in his crib. Anjali dialed Shahid's cell but it was off.

"It's off!" She complained.

"Then try Angad's cell." Kripa said sitting back down. Anjali browsed Kripa's phone and found Angad's number. It rings, and rings, and then Anagd picks up, worried to read Kripa's name at this time.

"Kripa? Is everything ok? Why are you calling so late at night?"

Anjali giggled hearing Angad so worried about Kripa, "Angad, it's Anjali not Kripa, and Kripa is fine."

"Oh, Anjali. Why are you calling me at this time?" He asked yawning.

"Oh, I want to talk to Shahid, and his cell was off so Kripa asked me to call you. Can I talk to Shahid?"

Angad looked at Shahid next to him, sleeping like a little kid on his stomach, his mouth half open. "God knows how this guy became a FBI agent?" Angad sighed.

"Why?" Anjali asked.

"Um… let me tell you why. Hang up I'll send you a picture of him and then you can see why."

"Ok, bye." Anjali hung up and Angad took a picture of Shahid sleeping with a grin on his face, and send it to Anjali.

Anjali sat on the bed waiting for the picture. The phone rang and Anjali checked the message. She couldn't help but laugh at the picture. Kripa sat next to Anjali laughing with her at the picture. Anjali controlled her self and sat back. It was something she would keep for the rest of her life. Anjali didn't call Angad back because it was quite late there, and soon both Kripa and Anjali went to sleep as well.

****

Next morning, Kripa was back to her normal routines. She went to the hospital, like always came home for lunch and then left again. When she came back in the evening no one was home and Anjali like always had an emergency operation so she wouldn't be home till late. Kripa sat down in the rich white color sofa and played the messages on her phone. The first one were by Dadi telling her she was at Aaliya's house with Kris, one was by Bua asking about everyone. One by Shahid asking about Anjali, and then one more by Shahid saying they are coming back tonight their flight lands at eight. Kripa checked her watch as the message finished. It was seven, she decided she would leave in about five minutes because she would find traffic on the highway for sure. And then the last message went something like this; Kripa, I just was to tell you that Angad's life is in danger, he will be, I will, attack him at the air port. Save him if you can. Kripa froze as she heard the message again and again, she checked her watch once again and rushed out the house and drove to the air port trying Angad's and Shahid's phone continuously, but no luck. Both phones were switched off. Kripa like expected found traffic on the high way. Kripa sat in the car impatiently, waiting for the cars to move. Finally when she reached the road she crossed many red lights and her speed was high enough to cause an accident anytime, but she reached the air port around seven fifty-five. She rushed into the air port and looked around but didn't find Angad or Shahid. She called Angad but he didn't pick up, she tried Shahid but he still didn't pick up. The announcement aired announcing the flight from New Zealand had just landed. Kripa waited there pacing for five minutes until she saw Angad and Shahid walk up, smiling laughing, hitting each other like little kids. Kripa stood there smiling, until she saw a man across her, behind Angad smiling wickedly. A gun pointing at Angad's back. Kripa was horrified. She ran to Angad. The man's finger moved to the trigger unlocking it. Kripa ran faster and pushed Angad out of the way and the bullet pressed into Kripa's arm. The air port went chaos, and people ran around, Shahid stopped the man and ran behind him, while Angad and Kripa stood face to face with everyone running around them. Kripa took a step closer to Angad and put her head on his chest, and passed out. Her arm was bleeding, through her shirt. Angad touched her arm with his trembling hands, blood expanded on her hand, while Shahid ran back to them. "Angad what the hell are you doing? Take her to the hospital. Angad?" Angad came out of his state of shock and rushed Kripa to the hospital while Shahid rushed to the FBI headquarters.

****

An hour later Angad sat in the hospital crying. Anjali was inside with Kripa. Angad hadn't informed Dadi yet because he knew she would have gotten tensed and Kris was with her, so he didn't want to hassle her. Shahid ran to Angad, who was sitting there still in quite a shock. "Angad how is Kripa?" Angad looked at Shahid with blood shot red eyes. Shahid put his hand on Angad's shoulder, and Angad hugged him crying uncontrollably. "She's going to be alright Angad, she's going to be fine."

"I don't want to loose her again," Angad cried, "I don't want to loose her."

"Your not going to loose her." Right then Anjali came out and Angad rushed to her.

"Kripa is fine Angad. Don't worry."

"Can I see her?"

"Yes, but she is still unconscious." Angad ran inside while Anjali walked to Shahid and they both hugged each other. "When are our problems going to end Shahid, when?"

"I don't know." He replied hugging her tighter.

Angad walked into the room as saw Kripa lying on the bed. Her arm bandaged. Angad sat down beside Kripa and just sat there looking at her. "Kripa, you're in this condition because of me today. I'm sorry." He put his head down on the bed and berried his face in him arms and started to cry again. Soon he felt someone's hand settle on his arm, he looked up to see Kripa smiling at him weakly. She wiped his tears and parted her lips to speak, but Angad hushed her up before she could. "I'm sorry." he whispered to her. Kripa smiled with tears in her eyes. Kripa tried to sit up and Angad helped her without second thoughts.

"You don't have to be." She whispered back. "It's not your fault I'm here, it's my fault I didn't move fast enough and the bullet hit me." Angad couldn't believe Kripa was saying this. All he could do right now was hug her. And that's what he did, he put his arms around her and cried with her. Finally when they pulled apart they wiped each others tears, but Kripa hugged him again. "Why did this happed with us Angad? Why were we chosen out of all the people, why did our friendship get spoiled? Why did you leave me and go? Why did we share the relationship we did in the past months?" Angad pulled away and calmed her down and then sat beside her holding her hand.

"I guess it's a part of life!" He said putting one arm around Kripa. "Kripa, from the time we have known each other which is about eight, nine years now, I guess I've taken you for granted almost. But I didn't want to hurt you-"

"Angad why did you hide from me that you worked for the FBI?" Kripa asked cutting him off.

"I don't know. All I care about right now is that your fine, and that's all I care about. And all I want to hear from you is that your never going to put your life in danger for me, and we are never going to fight."

Kripa smiled as she hugged Angad once again. "Angad, I will do anything to protect you, but I can promise that we will never fight again!" Kripa whispered into his ear. Kripa's voice was captivating, the first words, I will do anything to protect you, the words made Angad's heartbeat quicken and slow down both at the same time. So caring, Angad confessed he was a fool, let himself hurt Kripa. Angad realized, Kripa didn't want Angad's love but what she wanted the most was the relationship they shared two years ago, everything from sweet to sour. The small fights; and the hugs after wards to make up for them. Angad only had one problem, Kripa intoxicated him when she was close to him, he just didn't know how he would control his emotions, he know they would over-flow today or tomorrow and ruin everything. "Angad, what are you thinking?" Kripa said snapping her fingers in front of his face.

"Nothing, Kripa take rest, I'll be right back."

"But will you be nice enough to tell me where you are going?" Kripa asked with a grin.

"I'm going to see when I can take you home." Angad lied; he just wanted to be away from Kripa for sometime.

"Ok."

Angad turned to leave, and he saw a grinning Shahid standing there. "Kripa I'm so happy this not-so-wonderful event took place." He said making his way to Kripa's side.

"Why?" Kripa asked.

"The misunderstandings between the two of you have been cleared, now I can sit back and watch you guys live happily." Kripa and Angad rolled their eyes.

"I'll be back Kripa, I've handled him enough for a full week, now you can do that!" Shahid turned to Kripa and put his arm around her.

"So, Mrs. Angad Khanna, how was the little love fest?" Shahid asked.

"Shahid, shut-up, he still doesn't love me. He just asked me for our old friendship back, that's all." Kripa sighed as she rested her head on Shahid's shoulder. "I can't wait till the day he opens his arms and tell me how much he loves me."

"Oh, he loves you alright. He's just scared to tell you."

"Why, will I eat him?" Kripa asked looking at him.

"Duh! You will eat him alive!" Shahid joked.

"Shut-up Shahid, and quit joking."

"So what are you going to do now Kripa?" Shahid asked.

"I'm going to wait and watch, actually, I'm going to make Angad fall in love with me!" Shahid looked at the wicked look on Kripa's face.

"How?" Shahid asked.

"Just wait and watch sweetheart." Kripa sighed and sat back, "But I'm going to take it easy, I want his friendship more than his love. I want him with me Shahid, I'm scared if I force him into anything he's going to hate me. I can't see hate for me in his eyes, if it's not love, it better not be hate either."

"Darling, don't worry. No matter how hard he tries, he can't hate you. Nor can he stay away from you and not love you. I challenge you, with in three months, he will tell you himself he loves you."

Kripa looked at Shahid, "Really?"

"Of course, after all It's Shahid saying this!"

"Of course, Shahid, my Shakespeare, my cook, and our cutest FBI agent."

"I'm the best!"

"Yes you are!" The two laughed, as Angad re-entered the scene confused to see the two so happy.

Pyaar Ka Pal: Part 36

Three days later, Shahid had gone home with Anjali while Angad went to pay the bills and complete the other formalities. Angad came back and found Kripa sleeping, he sighed thinking, she's always sleeping. Angad walked to Kripa and sat down on the bed and watched her sleep. Kripa turned and hugged Angad's hand, Angad tried to take it back but he couldn't he smiled thinking she still sleeps like a small kid, not worried about anything. After just looking at Kripa, with dreamy eyes Angad decided to wake her up. "Kripa, wake up." He whispered caressing her hair. Kripa slowly opened her eyes, and rubbed them, her arm still in pain. Finally, she saw a clear image of Angad and she smiled at him.

"I want to sleep Angad." She said closing her eyes again.

"Kripa, you can as soon as we get home. And by the way let go of my hand." Kripa opened her eyes and left his hand.

"Sorry."

"Your silly Kripa, there's no need to be sorry. Now come on we have to go."

"Angad, you're silly, you think I can walk? I can't even sit up properly." Kripa said looking at her arm again. Kripa had lost enough blood that she was not strong enough to walk, or do anything major. Not just because she got shot, but also because she wasn't eating properly for the past few days.

"Well, it's not my fault you haven't been eating properly." Angad said helping Kripa sit up. Kripa sighed and she rested her hand on her stomach.

"Well, its to late now, how about you go get a wheel chair?" Kripa said looking around.

"Why do we need a wheel chair?" Angad asked confused.

"That's right Angad, why do we need a wheel chair. Think about it Mr. FBI agent, I can't walk so I'm going to have to sit in a wheel chair and be taken to the car. Wasn't that a big mystery?" Angad grinned as Kripa spoke while Kripa gave him a 'your are an idiot' look. "Well I mean unless you plan to pick me up in your arms and take me home, that's your choice, but-" Before Kripa could continue Angad had her in his arms. "Angad what are you doing?" Kripa said shocked.

"Nothing, I'm just planning to throw you down on the floor next." Angad said walking out the room. "What do you think I'm doing Kripa." Angad walked Kripa in his arms out the hospital everyone looking at them. Kripa just smiled and put her arms around his neck. Angad helped Kripa into the car and then sat down behind the wheel. "I'm kind of glad you didn't eat anything the past days, I haven't picked up a heavier thing on my life." He said rubbing his hand on his back.

"Who told you to be macho man?" Kripa said annoyed, looking away.

"Ok, meri Ma. I'm sorry. Now stop acting like a kid." Angad started the car and they went home. Kripa was again sleeping again and they hit traffic. Angad got a small blanket and put it over Kripa and then reached home an hour later. Angad decided that it was the medicines she was taking that made her so sleepy. Angad wanted to wake Kripa up again but then decided not to. He walked and rang the bell. Shahid opened the door and looked at around.

"Where is Kripa?" Angad pointed to the car and Shahid saw Kripa sleeping. "Oh, I thought you left her at the hospital."

"Shahid you're too much. Now don't close the door, I'll be back." Angad rushed back and brought Kripa inside and put her in bed and closed the door, but not completely. He went out side and sat down next to Shahid. "What did you guys have for lunch?" Angad asked. "And where's Kris?"

"Kris is sleeping in my room, and we all went out for lunch." Shahid said flipping channels.

"Well, I'm going to go find something to eat." Angad said holding his stomach. Angad was about to go away when Kris started crying. Angad went and got Kris, but he kept crying and wouldn't hush up. Angad didn't know what to do he rocked him, and tried to make him laugh but he kept crying. Now both Shahid and Anagd were getting were scared they only had one choice wake up Kripa. Angad handed Kris to Shahid and walked into Kripa's room, she was awake and smiling. Angad sat next to her confused. He touched her forehead to make sure she didn't have fever. "Tum hass kyun rahi ho?" He asked taking his hand away.

"I was just watching you take care of Kris." Kripa said looking at Shahid again who had Kris slightly under control.

"You think you can walk?" Angad asked.

"No, how about you carry me again?" Kripa said putting her hand out.

"No thanks, aagar maina tumko ek baar aur uthaya mujhko doctor ka pass jana paraga." Kripa narrowed her eyes and gave Angad a mean look. "Hey, it's very true!"

"Just shut-up!" Kripa emphasized her words, and sat up with Angad helping her sit up. Then Angad stood up and Kripa put her feet down on the floor and stood up holding the bed stand. She let go and walked a few steps only to find herself falling on Angad. Angad made a cute face while Kripa tried to stand up without his support again.

"Tum bauth ziddi ho Kripa." Angad said putting his arm around her and helping her to the sofa.

Kripa sat down catching her breath, and took Kris from Shahid, and she made him get the milk for Kris. Kripa sat there feeding Kris while Shahid left to pick up Anjali, and Angad searched the kitchen to get something to eat. But to his disappointment there was nothing. He came back and sat down on the sofa next to Kripa. "Kripa, mujhko bhook lagi hai." He said quietly respecting Kris.

Kripa looked at him and smiled, "Don't expect any help form me!" She said handing Kris to him again. "But instead help and put him back in the crib."

"What am I Kripa, your servant?" He asked, not seriously.

"Of course!" Kripa said resting her head on the side of the sofa again. Angad came back and sat down next to Kripa again.

"Kripa!"

"Kya hai Angad?" Kripa said her eyes half closed.

"Mujhko bhool lagi hai, mera peth main chuiha dhuar raha hai." He said holding his stomach again.

"Angad, jaisa he main theek hogi sab sa pelha, I'm going to teach you how to cook."

"Lakin main abhi kya karo?" He wined.

"Order Chinese or something." Kripa said resting her tired neck on Angad's shoulder.

"Kripa you really have a sharp brain!"

"I know." Angad picked up the phone and ordered Chinese, when he turned around he found Kripa laying down on the sofa her eyes closed once again. Angad was confused she was sleeping way to much. Angad did things around the house while waiting for his food. And then at the end he finally called up Kripa's doctor and told her about Kripa's sleeping problem. She said it was fine, no problems. Her medicines made her sleep so much. Angad sighed and went back to Kripa and covered her in a blanket. And then opened the door and got his food. He went to the kitchen and took out a plate and had his lunch. Shahid and Anjali weren't back and Angad figured they were doing this purposely. Angad was bored. Kripa was still sleeping and so was Kris. He was glad Kris was because he just couldn't handle him, and he didn't want to wake Kripa up again and again. Angad went to Shahid's room and looked through his DVD collection and picked out Matrix. He turned the movie on in low volume and sat down next to Kripa. The movie was quite boring for him. Well of course, after watching it a million times almost any movie would be. He the turned the movie off, and looked at Kripa again. She slept with a smile on her face. Angad was taken back by her beauty, and couldn't help but looking at her. He just couldn't help it, but then he looked away and left into his room. He walked into his closet and took out a picture of him and Kripa together and smiled at it. Angad knew why he was in love with Kripa. So madly in love with her. Anagd heard Kripa coughing and quickly put the picture away and walked out. Kripa was shifting still asleep. Angad walked to her and sat down on the floor beside her. He couldn't help but hold her hand, at this point no matter how hard he tried to stay away from her it wasn't going to happen. Angad kept looking at her, Kripa moved and Angad let go of her hand. Feeling the sudden drop Kripa woke up, and found Angad sitting on the floor.

"What are you doing on the floor?" She asked, rubbing her eyes.

"I was trying to wake you up." Angad said sitting on the sofa.

"Why?"

"I was just getting bored."

"Angad, I don't think I can entertain you at all."

"I know, but you need to eat something. You haven't eaten since this morning. And all you had was a glass of milk. And that too because I forced you." Kripa made a face, "And you need to take your medicines."

"Angad, have you ever thought how great of a nurse you would make?"

"Oh darn." Angad sighed.

"What?" Kripa said sitting up now.

"I thought you were going to say, have you ever thought how good of a husband you would make!"

"Angad, you want to know something."

"If I say no, you're not going to stop."

Kripa grinned, "You're not a husband darling."

"Oh, that's right." Angad said quietly. "I'll be right back, I'm going to just check on Kris real quick." Angad left Kripa smiling. Angad was hurt and that was exactly what Kripa had wished for. Angad entered his room and saw Kris sleeping. He sat down next to him with tears in his eyes Your not a husband he though again.

"I'm not a husband." He said again. "I'm not a husband."

"Angad!" Kripa called. Angad wiped his tears and put a fake smile on. Kripa looked at Anagd and she could tell he was crying. She wanted to hug him and tell him she was sorry, and what a great husband he was, and how much she loved him. Angad sat back down next to Kripa, not looking at Kripa. Kripa knew he was not going to be able to talk to her now. Kripa had to say sorry. She moved closer to him and held his face with her small hands. "I'm sorry, I didn't-"

"It's ok Kripa." Angad said holding her hand. "I can understand." But voice was still not convincing. Kripa felt really bad now. Kripa looked away and wiped the her tears. "Ab tum kyun ro rahi ho?" Angad asked turning her face again. More cheerful. Kripa looked at Angad and hugged him. Anagd was confused why Kripa was so emotional. Angad still hadn't realized Kripa loved him. "Kripa, rona band karo, tum bilkul baacho ki tara roti ho." Kripa parted from Angad and wiped her tears.

"You were going to get me something to eat, what happened?"

"What do you want to eat?" He said putting his arm around her. "Can I get your order?"

"Nothing much sir, just a light soup?"

"Of course!"

Pyaar Ka Pal: Part 37

A month passes by Kripa recovered, but not so quickly. The FBI had given Angad a break after so much happened, and Angad had started given some time to the office while Dadi stayed home. Kripa had spend a lot of time with Angad in the past week but there was no sing from Angad's side that he loved her even one bit. One week and Kripa was ready to give up. Anjali was gone to France, she had taken up the project Kripa was going to handle. Shahid had tried to explain Angad a few times that he should move on with his life with Kripa, but Angad had been ignoring him. He was going to be stubborn till he could.

Kripa on the other hand no hope, the two still slept separately. Angad on the sofa and Kripa on the bed. Angad was a master at maintaining his distance with Kripa which convinced her there was no way on hell Angad even ever thought about loving Kripa. Kripa was quite convinced and ready to give up.

Well like every morning Angad was getting ready to go to office, and like every morning he needed Kripa to help him dress. Every morning he would try not to call Kripa and help him, and just like every morning he was going to try to be 'independent' again. After buttoning his shirt up, leaving the last the buttons open he turned around to find Kripa standing in the door way with breakfast. Anagd smiled and looked around with a nervous smile while Kripa set the breakfast down.

"Angad can I help you?" Kripa asked standing up.

"Huh, no. I'm good." He replied still shuffling through his stuff.

Kripa smiled and held both his hands. "Ek baat batao."

"Kya?" Angad asked taking one hand in his.

"Tum kab sudhro ga?"

"Ah! Good question, kabhi nahie." They both smile at each other and Kripa gets his stuff for him.

"Here's you phone, your coat, your wallet and your brief case." She said handing each thing to him.

"Thank, I'll leave."

"Not so easy." Kripa said pulling his arm again.

"Kya hua Kripa?"

"Kuch zayda nahie, betho and finish your breakfast." Angad has no choice but to sit down and finishing breakfast. After stuffing a toast in his mouth he stood up, to leave only to find himself pulled down again. "Finish you juice." Kripa said strictly.

"Tum meri biwi kam aur nurse sayda lagthi ho." Kripa looked away as Angad confessed the fact he considers her his 'wife.' Angad also got quite and finished his juice quietly. "Main chaltha ho." He said putting his glass down. Kripa smiled at Angad as he walked out the door. As Angad walked out the door tears ran from Kripa's eyes, she turned around still crying when Angad walked back in. Kripa quickly wiped her tears and walked to him with a plastic smile on her face. "Kripa, are you crying?" He asked walking to her.

"No Angad, it's just that, something went into my eye."

"Are you sure?" Angad asked. Kripa nodded her head.

"What are you doing here?"

"I forgot my cell." He reached over and picked it up. "Bye."

"Bye." He turned and started to walk and Kripa walking behind him when he turned around and crashed into Kripa, allowing her to trip over his feet. But before Kripa could fall Angad grabbed her wrist and pulled her back. Kripa stood in front of Angad with her eyes tightly shut. Her hand on Angad's chest. Angad looked at Kripa, who had a frightened look on her face. The window was slightly open allowing Kripa's hair to fly everywhere. And a few strands getting stuck to her heavily glossed lip. Angad brushed her hair off, as Kripa opened her eyes. "Are you ok?" He asked still quite. Kripa just nods her head.

"Do you need something?" Kripa asked moving away.

"Yes, actually, there's a small business party tonight, will you come with me?"

"Sure."

"Ok, get ready I'll pick you up by eight."

"Ok, bye."

"Bye." Angad finally leaves, and Kripa jumps in joy.

******

Kripa stood in front of her closet finding something to wear when Angad came in loosening his tie.

"Kripa? Tum abhi tak tayaar nahie ho?" Angad asked Kripa.

"Angad, I can't find anything to wear." Kripa said slamming the door.

"Kripa? Don't punish the poor door." Angad said laughing.

"It's not funny Angad." Kripa says crossing her arms in front of her.

"Oh ho Kripa, I'm joking. Do me a favor, get me a cup of coffee, my head is aching like crazy, until then I'll pick a outfit for you. Happy?"

"Angad, if not feeling good you should rest, we are not going any where." Kripa says stubbornly.

"Kripa, relax. It's a minor headache its going to be fine. Now go!" Angad hold Kripa's arm, gentle, and drives her out the room. Kripa just nods her head and goes to the kitchen. Dadi was in the kitchen with Kris, who had learned to walk now. His newest achievement, learning how to walk, had been bothering everyone. He would run around the house knocking things down. Kripa had put all fragile material up top where he couldn't reach. And when he would do something naughty everyone would scold the poor thing, but then Angad would come along and save him. Kripa would fight and argue with Angad all the time for that. Kripa after juggling with both Kris and Angad's coffee finally finished and went back to her room. Angad was in the shower when she went in and a beautiful light pink dress was laid on the bed. Kripa put the coffee down and changed into the dress while Angad showered.

When Angad came back Kripa was already dressed. Angad was dressed in a white and black suit. "Angad, is this the only outfit you have?" Kripa asked walking to him.

"No, I haven't wore this even once." Angad said looking down.

"I know!" Kripa said holding another suit against him.

"Then?" Angad asked looking at the suit Kripa was holding. "Kripa no, and it's not mine." Angad said looking at the handsome black suit. "It's not me." Kripa rolled her eyes and turned Angad around and pushed him into the bathroom with the suit. Angad threw the coat on the bed and went in to change. Kripa waited for Angad, and when he came out Kripa was stroked with a cupid arrow. She was falling in love with a new Angad. Angad for the first time in his life wore a transparent black shirt, ending a little below his waist, with black pants. He looked strikingly handsome. Angad was confused after looking at the dazes Kripa. "Kripa?" He snapped his fingers in front of her face.

"Ya?" She said snapping out.

"I told you I would look bad." Angad said turning back.

"Angad, wait." Kripa took his arm and he stopped and turned. "Your look really nice! Every girl is going to droll over you!" Kripa said helping him with his jacket.

"Thanks, but I think I'm fine with you!" Anagd said turning to Kripa.

"Kyun?"

"Well, I feel bad for you, I know everyone is going to love me like always, but dislike you like always."

"Angad, I hate you!" Kripa said hitting his arm, like a little baby.

"Ok, baba, I'm sorry. Now lets go?" Angad walked out the door when-

"Angad?"

He turned and looked at Kripa, "Kya?"

"Are you planning to go without shoes?" Kripa asked looking at his feet. Angad had a 'Ops!' look on his face, as he slipped into his shoes.

****

Kripa and Angad stood in front of the large oak doors. Carved heavily in various patterns. Kripa was nervous to go into the same hall where she had met Anagd after years, the same hall in which almost three years her parents held a grand event. Kripa gasped, and Angad glared at her. His arm forms around her waist and Kripa looks at him. "It's just a hall, not your destiny." Angad said softly. Kripa tried to smile, and put her arm around his and they entered. The two walked into the event greeted by none other than the dashing looking Prithvi Bose. Angad's company was launching there latest collection for which Prithvi's company was designing the outfits, Angad was forced to be here. He never wanted to work with Prithvi but his company being the strongest today he had no other choice. Kripa and Prithvi were rather happy to see each other. After the two men shook hands Kripa and Prithvi hugged at each, Prithvi kissing both of Kripa's cheeks. This only helped Angad burn in jealousy. Kripa and Angad entered the social life of the party. Kripa didn't know anyone and just stood next to Angad smiling. After the first thirty minutes or so Kripa was quite bored. Angad turned after picking up yet another glass of wine. "Angad chala?" Kripa asked taking the glass of wine from him. Angad had always been a wine lower. "I'm really board." Kripa complained.

"We can't leave Kripa." Angad protested as Prithvi approached the lovely couple.

Kripa left Angad's side and walked to Prithvi, leaving Angad shocked and depressed. "Ok then, you can associate with you so called friends, I can till then, have a dance with Prithvi. Do you mind Prithvi?" Kripa said smiling at him.

"I don't Kripa, but your husband seems to for sure, right Angad?"

"Of course not!" Angad said smiling. "Feel free!" Prithvi took Kripa's hand and they both made there way to the dance floor. Kripa's arms go around his neck and Prithvi's hands on Kripa's waist. As each step they take closer Anagd's eyes fill with tears and his heart aced seeing Kripa so close to someone else. Kripa and Prithvi are enjoying on the other hand. Smiling, and just having fun. The song ended and Kripa and Prithvi parted. Prithvi looked at a hurt Angad and smiled to him self. Then taking Kripa's hand he took her to Angad. Angad quickly straightened his look and smiled. "How was the dance?" He asks Kripa.

"Great!' Kripa replies with any regret.

"That's good." The next song plays and Kripa looks at Prithvi again.

"No Kripa, how about you have dance with Angad?" He gives Kripa's hand in his and walks away. Angad's touch is electric. Sending currants up and down her arms, and back.

"May I?" Angad whispers in her ear. Kripa moved her head robotically and the couple makes there way to the dance floor. Hesitant, and slowly Kripa's arms slip around Angad's neck. Angad puts his hand on Kripa's waist, and she takes a step closer to him, feeling his hot breath on her face. Kripa's hands suddenly are around Anagd and her head is on his chest and she hugs him tightly, tears in her eyes. Angad doesn't know what's going on. After having so much wine, and Kripa being so close to him he's was intoxicated. He hugs her back and strokes her hair gently. Both enjoying the moment together, in each others arms. Instead on dancing Kripa and Angad stand in each others arms, living the moment. The moment they have been waiting for, waiting without knowing. The two don't know for how long they have waited for this moment, when they could stand in each others arms and hold each other. Not worried about anyone or anything. The music started to fade away and Kripa and Angad realized and slowly parted. Kripa didn't look at Anagd and just walked out the room, wiping the tears from her eyes. Angad stood there slowly coming out of his intoxicated state. He couldn't believe himself. Why did he do the things he just did? Why? Despite of all the questions in his head he felt a wired satisfaction within himself. He felt almost as if what just happened should have happened years ago.

Kripa and Angad drove down the empty streets, but as the moved along the traffic got more hectic. And finally miles away from there home they found traffic and police checking. A officer came to Angad's car and Angad rolled down his window in the heavy rain. "Is there a mishap officer?" Angad asked, squinting his eyes to see the tall man better.

"Yes sir, actually we have a murder case, we are integrating." The man said as Angad gave him his I-card. "I'm sorry sir, I know your FBI, but we still can't let you pass."

"It's fine, we'll find another way out."

"Thanks sir." He took his I-card from him and turned his car.

"Kripa, do you mind if we stay at the office guest house for tonight?" Angad said as he stopped the car in front of his spacious office.

"What ever gets me in bed faster." Kripa said between yawns. Angad smiled seeing Kripa close her eyes and tilt her head towards the window. Angad put the car back in gear and turned the other way to the guest house.

About ten minutes later there coup stopped in front of a small house. Angad could see candles glowing from the window. It was still raining heavily. Angad shook Kripa woke her up.

Kripa rubbed her eyes and woke up. After looking outside Kripa is disappointed. Angad quickly rushes to the door with Kripa behind him. He rings the bell waiting for the servant to open the door. The wind was heavy sending dust into her eyes. Angad looked at a struggling Kripa and stood in front of her blocking the wind by his back. Kripa settled, as Angad moved closer to her to keep warm, and he rang the bell once again. The door opened and there stood the house keeper of the place. Kripa and Angad rushed in, and he closed the door behind him. After Anagd send the servant to the bed again Kripa and him went to a room. Kripa's has stored a lot of Angad's old stuff and his old cloths there, along with Anjali's because she had been living in the guest house for some time. Kripa found Angad a night suit and then looked through some of Anjali's stuff. She found herself a pair of pants, but she didn't like the extra tight shirts.

Anjali was fond of wearing tight shirts for some reason, not now but from the start. Kripa decided to take her cloths and wear a sweatshirt of Angad on top.

Angad was sitting on the bed thinking when Kripa came in his room with a baggy sweatshirt.

"Kripa? Why are you wearing my sweatshirt?"

"Because I like to look stupid!" Kripa said jumping on the bed beside Angad.

"Good!" Angad said picking his pillow up.

"And where are you going?" Kripa asked, holding his hand.

"To sleep." Angad said confused.

"Where? There's no sofa here." Kripa said looking around.

"There is one outside."

"Are you mad?"

"No."

"Then, you want to freeze to death?"

"No."

"Then my dear, I suggest you sleep here. It's to cold. And if you get sick I have to take care of you." Kripa said yawning again.

"You don't mind."

"Whatever." Kripa said slowly lying down, still holding Angad's hand. Anagd put his pillow down and smiled. Then tucking in bed beside her he shut the lighting looking at her face in the moon light. More beautiful, more innocent, more charming. He wanted to stay awake all night and just look at the most beautiful lady in this world, his own wife, Kripa Khanna. He smiled as these thoughts crossed his mind. And then Prithvi and Kripa dancing crossed his mind and he frowned. Then again Prithvi kissing Kripa, now he tried to sit up but Kripa still had his hand. His attention was back to Kripa now.

Her hair were on her face covering her lips. Anagd, tentatively removed her hair from her face, now being able to look at her more properly. Kripa moved a little, but closer to Anagd, and soon her head was resting on Angad's arm. Angad could feel Kripa's breath on his neck. Kripa only moved closer to Anagd, keeping herself warm. Angad smiled to himself and put his arms around her. I love you Kripa, and I think I have realized that I can't live without you any longer. The only problem is I don't know if you love me. Angad frowned once again. He felt Kripa's face against his chest now, and her arms were around him as well. Angad was ready to move on with Kripa, but at the same time he wasn't. He couldn't hide his feeling for her any longer. He just couldn't do it, he couldn't pretend being just a good "friend" any more. But then at the same time he wasn't sure if he was ready yet, if she was ready yet, he wasn't sure if he was ready to put there relation at test yet. Stroking Kripa's hair he decided that he would just stay quite for some more time. Till the time he was sure, he was ready for the relation. Shaking the thoughts off his mind Angad closed his eyes and went to sleep within matter of minutes.

Next morning, it had stopped raining but it was still dark. Angad's arms were still wrapped around Kripa, who was sleeping carelessly. She hadn't slept so peacefully in days. It had been the pain in her foot for most of the time, and then just other problems, or maybe it was the tension between Angad and her. And maybe she was just sleeping so carelessly, because she was in Angad's arms.

Angad slowly opened his eyes finding Kripa's head still berried into his chest. She was curled up against him; one arm around him. Angad looked at her, and smiled at her baby face. Then he slowly shook her and woke her up. Kripa opened her eyes, and rubbed them straitening up, still close to Angad. She can feel his gaze on her and looks at him nervously, then upon noticing how close she is to him she tried to move away, only to find Angad still holding her hand. Kripa looked at him amazed. "Um… Angad," she started not looking at him, "why are you holding my hand?" Now she looked at him. Angad looked at her confused. Then with his other hand he removed the blanket and looked at their hands. It was actually holding Angad's hand since last night. Kripa turned red embarrassed, as Anagd moved closer to her and whispered into her ear, "So what were you saying?" Kripa looked at the floor and smiled. Then leaving Angad's hand she gets up and runs out the door. Leaving a smiling Angad behind. Angad stands up and walks to the mirror. When his shadow stands behind him. Angad turns around shocked.

"Angad!" His shadow begins, "what do you think you are doing?" He asked him.

"What am I doing?" Angad asked his shadow.

"You are getting closer to Kripa, and that's not good for you or Kripa. The closer you get to her the harder it will be for you to leave her."

"But, I love her." Angad protested.

"I know you do! But your love is not going to cause anything but pain for her." His shadow was dressed in black, and his eye were fiery.

"I don't know what to do!" Angad said sitting down on the bed, his head in his hands.

"Look Angad, you know she doesn't love you, don't love her back. She can't fall in love with you unless you show her your emotion. And either today or tomorrow she will get fed up, and then you can give her, her wings back. Let her fly away, let her live the way she wants."

"But I-" Angad looked up and found his shadow gone. He hit his fist on the Mahoney dresser near by. Kripa walked in and saw the upset Angad on the bed.

She walked to him and sat down beside him, "Angad are you ok?" She said putting her hand on his hand. Angad pulled his hand away and stood up not facing her.

"I'm fine Kripa. I think we should leave now. Dadi must be waiting for us, and hopefully the roads are clear by now." Anagd walked out the room.

Kripa stood up, confused. "Angad, everything that happened from last night to this morning I started to think you love me. But I was wrong. You can't love me. Your only a friend, and that's how your going to stay, always be my "best" friend."

Kripa wiped her tears and walked into the bathroom, zombie like. Angad stood near the door listening to Kripa's words. He smiled with tears in his eyes.

"That's wasn't to hard." He told himself, but his smile faded and he knew he was doing nothing more than lying to him self.

Pyaar Ka Pal: Part 38

Angad and Kripa got home within matter of hours, they didn't talk the whole way. At home Angad went straight to his room, then left for office, and then office. Kripa was upset. Bua was back, and she was spending time with Kris. She wanted to take him back when she went back but both Kripa and Angad didn't want back. Anjali was going to be back in a few days as well, and Shahid was just going crazy about her being gone for such a long time. Every time he would wine about it Kripa would tell him how Anjali felt when he left. Shahid would frown and say, I've never been away for a month. And then Kripa would say something and they would have a slight argument, and then turn faces and then later hug and make up. Kripa felt bad for Shahid because she knew he was missing her miserably. She knew how Shahid felt because she felt the same way about Angad, in fact worst. He was there, with her but not close to her.

And a week past, Angad had started to grow away from Kripa even more. He normally wouldn't come home until ten, eleven, and by then Kripa would be sleeping waiting for him. Every night, he would enter the room with Kripa sleeping, with her glasses on and her book in her lap. And he would have to put her to sleep properly. And in the morning he would leave before Kripa would wake up. It was almost like Kripa hadn't seen him for days now. She would talk to him on the phone to make sure he got lunch and he ate, but that was it. They were now actually living in the same roof like two strangers. Shahid knew all about it and Kripa had asked him to keep quite and not talk to Angad about it at all. Shahid, not happy, agreed. Bua like she said, did take Kris with her for a few months. Dadi also went with her for sometime. Now Kripa would just spend hours at home crying with Shahid, trying her best not to break down, but she had no other option. Shahid couldn't see Kripa like this any more. It had been a week since Kripa had actually seen Angad. Shahid couldn't take it anymore. After a lot of pushing and convincing Shahid convinced Kripa to stay home alone for sometime.

After Shahid left Kripa went thought case files for the hospital and much other. After she had spend about a good thirty minutes doing that, she decided to sit down and just read. She sat on the sofa with small throw around her, and started to read. After reading a few pages Kripa started to doze away, putting her stuff away she closed her eyes and fell asleep.

****

Shahid roamed the streets of London, trying to get a way Angad home right away. Then he got it, he called Angad.

****

Kripa was stood up after a small 15 minutes dose off. Kripa stood up to make her self a cup of tea when the door smacked open and Angad came running in. Kripa froze right then as Angad stood in front of her panicked.

"Kripa, are you ok?" He said quickly running out of breath. Kripa just didn't know what to say. She stood there with tears coming out of her eyes. And right away he knew this was Shahid's plan to get Angad in front of Kripa again. Angad felt guilty seeing Kripa cry. Kripa took a step closer to him, unable to keep her balance, but still strong enough to stay on her feet. Angad knew he should be here, he could see the pain, the anger on Kripa's face. He knew she was going to burst crying, and he would have no other choice but to take her in his arms, and that's what he didn't want to do. Angad wanted to turn and leave but his feet seemed to be stuck to the floor. "Angad, remember that day at the hospital we had decided that we would never fight, regain the old relationship we shared, weren't you the one who wanted me to promise that we would never fight? I never fought, but Angad why are you doing this to me?" Angad was wrong, Kripa was crying, she did had tears in her eyes, but yet she sounded so determined. "Angad a full week, a full week, I haven't seen you. You leave before I wake up and come home after I'm asleep."

"How does it matter to you?" Angad said turning away.

"I know it's not suppose to, but Angad I am married to you, I agree we don't share a regular relationship that a husband and wife share, but don't you have some responsibility for me?" Angad didn't reply, and stood not facing Kripa. "What should I make out from you silence?" Kripa asked her voice starting to crack. Angad still didn't reply, now Kripa took his arm and turned him around, only to find tears in his eyes as well. "What should I make out of your tears Angad?" Kripa took a deep breath and closed her eyes, and then opened them again. "Forget it Angad, there's no point in talking to you. Dadi ka phone aaya tha, she won't be coming back for a month or so. Call her, she was asking about you." Kripa turned to walk away and then stopped, "And if possible, stay home more often, enough so I at least know your still here in my life." Kripa went to the kitchen and made herself a cup of coffee in stead of tea. When she came back Angad was still home now changed into his pajama's. Kripa put his coffee in front of him and sat down on the opposite sofa picking up, her book she started to read again. Her coffee was set on the sofa's arm and, Angad was staring at her. Then he noticed her cup slipping down. Angad quickly put his arm out and the coffee dropped on his arm, burning his arm. Kripa quickly stood up and took Angad to the kitchen and rinsed his arm, with cold water. Angad looked at Kripa as the cold water washed his arm. Kripa could feel his stare but didn't look back at him. "I'll be right back." Kripa said turning the tap off. She turned to leave when Anagd grabbed her arm with his wet hand. Kripa turned around and looked at Angad, who was fighting his tears. Suddenly the lights flickered and turned off. The T.V. was still on which meant the electricity was here. But the bulb was fused.

Kripa could still see Angad's eyes, now a cool gray color. "I'm sorry Kripa," He finally said taking a step closer to her.

"What do you want to me do Angad," Kripa said still looking at him. "Should I forgive you," She asked, her voice breaking again. Angad was quite. Kripa turned and lighted a candle holding it between them, and then putting it to aside. She looked back at Angad, "Angad, are we going to live our whole life like this?"

"Kripa, I-"

Kripa covered his mouth with her hand. "I got my answer," she took her hand back and looked away, and then looked down at his hand, which was red from the coffee. Taking Angad's hand she took him to their room and made him sit down, and applied a cream on his lower arm. And then stood up but Angad had his hand. "Angad please let me go," She pleaded him. Angad stood up and held his ears in front of her, with a cute expression on his face. Kripa had no choice but to melt away. She dropped her head to his chest and hugged him, her face berried in his chest, crying. Angad hugged her back saying, "It won't happen again. I promise."

"Your promise everything Angad, you promised the same things last time to." Kripa said still hugging him, only tighter this time. How do I tell you Angad, that I love you so much, I can't stay away from you. She thought, why can't this moment just stop right here and we could stand her holding each other for ever. Why don't you love me? Why can't you see my love for you in my eyes? Kripa continued to cry. And Angad just embraced her tightly.

"I promise it won't happen again, how about I take you out for dinner today," he offered as he pulled away.

"Sorry, but someone else already made that offer, and I accepted it."

"Who," Angad asked nervously.

"Oh, Prithvi," she replied casually.

"Prithvi," he said even more nervous. Why Prithvi, he thought.

"Did you say something?" Kripa asked rubbing her eyes.

"No, can I come with you," he asked.

"No," Kripa replied.

Angad lost the color in his face, could it be possible Kripa had started loving Prithvi, he thought. Then he shook his head and erased the thoughts. That couldn't be possible. But then again, she was extremely happy around him. No, Angad thought again, I can't be. "Angad," Kripa called, waving her hands in front of her.

"Huh? Oh, ya, where is Shahid? Maybe I can go somewhere with him," Angad said disappointed.

"Angad, I was joking," she said locking her arm with his, "You have to come with me, other wise whose going to drive me there?"

Angad grinned, "So basically, I'm your driver?"

"Yes!"

"Fine then, any thing for you, but can't you cancel this date of yours?"

"It's not a date Angad, Prithvi just wanted company." Kripa protested.

"Please!" Angad begged again, "Can't have I have one night with my best friend? We can go out and have dinner like old times and then watch a movie in south hall!" Kripa twisted her lips and looked at Anagd, she wanted to say yes.

"I guess, but-"

"Great," Angad cut her off, "Call Prithvi and tell him he can come over here and have lunch with Shahid, but I'm taking my wife out tonight!" Angad walked out the room leaving Kripa shocked, I'm taking my wife out tonight, she thought. A smile crossed her lips. She could say no to anyone to be with Angad.

*****

Kripa sat on her bed staring at her phone, feeling guilty about telling him she can't go with him. Angad came in the room still in his pajama's and looked at Kripa, and the lost color on her face. He assumed she didn't want to go with him, he smiled and sat down next to her. "Kripa it's ok-" he started, "you don't have to go with me, get ready I'll drop you off where ever it is you need to go." Kripa looked at Angad as he stood up, she help his hand and made up sit back down.

"Angad, it's not I don't want to go with you, it's just that I feel bad saying "No" to Prithvi, I mean he asked me first." He even asked you to marry him first, Angad thought. Thank god you didn't fell sorry and marry him. "Angad," Kripa said again.

"Huh? It's ok Kripa. You can go, I'm fine."

"Are you sure?" Kripa asked holding his hand. Angad nodded his head and smiled, then he got up and left. Kripa sat there with her lips twisted and then she got an idea. She got up and went to the den upstairs, where Angad was flipping though channels. Football season was over and Angad didn't have anything to wait for anymore. Kripa smiled and sat down next to him. "Angad."

"Hmm?"

"Angad, meri baat suno," taking the remote from Angad's hand Kripa turned the T.V. off.

"Kripa, kya hai?"

"Look, I'll go have dinner with Prithvi, and then we can go watch a movie, how's that?" Angad looked at Kripa, "That way I can have dinner with Prithvi and spend time with you, and I can come back earlier saying you wanted to spend time with me!"

Angad liked the idea, at least he would get to spend time with Kripa this way, and instead of spending three hours with Prithvi she would only spend an hour. Not to mention Anagd didn't want Kripa to see Prithvi at all, but he couldn't fight with Kripa again. So Kripa got dressed and Angad dropped her off, and then went to FBI headquarters as he was getting his next assignment assigned tonight. Shahid was already there, and until Kripa would have dinner he would finish up his work.

*****

Kripa sat in a Italian restaurant with Prithvi in the open. It was a cool March evening, and Kripa had a baby pink scarf around her. Prithvi was talking on the phone while Kripa sat fiddling with her phone, and decided to SMS Angad till then, before she could start Prithvi ended his call. "I'm sorry Kripa." He said politely.

"It's ok," she smiled.

"What would you like to have for dinner," he asked like a polite gentleman. Kripa didn't want to eat because she knew Angad hadn't eat till now. "Nothing much Prithvi."

"Hey, that's not right. You have to eat a full meal."

"Prithvi I'm really sorry, but-"

'Ok, fine. What do you want?"

"Well, how about two slices of garlic bread with iced tea," Kripa offered.

"Sure." A little later the waiter arrived and they placed there order. They enjoyed a nice meal and a light conversation, it was all fine until Kripa asked Prithvi something. They were walking back to car, and Angad was suppose to be there any minute now to pick Kripa up. "Prithvi, you work so much, how about getting married now?" Kripa asked, wrapping the scarf around her tighter.

Prithvi stopped smiling and looked down, "Kripa, after you I don't think I can get married. I mean it takes some time," Kripa felt bad for bringing the topic up. She stepped closer to Prithvi and held his hand.

"I'm sorry," she whispered.

"It's ok." He said wiping a tear from his eye, Kripa felt bad and hugged him tightly. Prithvi hugged him back and after a few short minutes they both parted, Kripa looked behind Prithvi and found a heart broken Angad standing there.

Pyaar Ka Pal: Part 39

Angad straightened up, and walked to them. Kripa left Prithvi's arm, and Prithvi turned around. Angad smiled and the men shook hands, and Angad took his side next to Kripa. There was an awkward silence between the three. Before Kripa could say something Prithvi's phone rang and he excused himself. Kripa and Angad tried not to look at each other, but stole glances. Prithvi turned around ending his call, "I have to leave guys. Kripa, thanks for coming." Angad and Prithvi shook hands while Kripa and Prithvi hugged once again. Prithvi soon left and Angad and Kripa walked thought the silent parking lot. It was 7:30, and it was too cold. Kripa had goose bumps on her arms, and the silence between them made Kripa even more uncomfortable. Kripa walked beside Angad, looking around at all the cars, and the scenery, when she suddenly trips on something, Angad quickly holds her arm and pulls her back. Kripa takes a sigh of relief, and looks at Angad, and he looks at her, and suddenly they both burst out laughing. "I think my destiny only hold me falling-"

"And me holding you steady." Angad finished for her. Kripa looked at him and smiled.

"Thanks." She said, still holding her arm. "What do you want to do?" She asked, leaving his arm.

"I'm hungry." Angad complained.

"Me too!"

"Kripa? Tum kitna khati ho? You just had dinner."

"Angad, shut-up. I didn't really eat anything."

"Why?" He asked grinning.

"Angad," she hooked her arm in his and they kept walking, "if you think I didn't eat because I care about you, your wrong."

"Oh! So you don't care about me. I see how it is." He took his arm away and started to walk faster. Kripa stood there smiling. This was so perfect, and she feared it might be ruined the next minute. Like it happened every time, everything would be perfect one second and the next, they would be fighting.

Angad turned around and found Kripa smiling, in thought. He walked back to her and snapped his fingers in front of her. Kripa came out of her thought and smiled wider. "What happened?" Kripa nodded her head and smiled, "Then shall we go?" He turned to leave when Kripa took his hand and he looked at her again. Taking a step closer to her he cupped her face in his hands, "Kripa, what's wrong." He asked in a whisper. Kripa looked at him for a second and then spoke.

"Angad can I ask you something?"

"Um… yes!" He smiled and put his arm around her should as they continued to walk to their car.

"Have you ever loved someone?" Kripa's question was so unexpected Angad froze and looked at her. He caught the fear in her eyes, he decided it wasn't love but that she was keeping him away, she was keeping him tied up.

Finding his voice he spoke, "Why do you ask?"

"Just like that."

"Ok, then how about I ask you something, what do you want to hear." I want to hear you love someone, and that someone is me, Kripa thought.

"I want to hear the truth." She answered.

"Well, in that case, I don't love anyone."

"Why not?" Because I love you, and your not 'anyone,' he told himself. Angad had no problems admitting that he loved Kripa to himself, but he was almost scared to tell Kripa.

"I guess I've just never found that person, and at this point I don't want to."

"Why not?" Kripa asked further. Angad wanted to ignore the question.

"Kripa, you would make a great wife who suspects her husband, and I would love to see a demo, but can we go for now, I'm starved."

"Angad, don't avoid my question." Kripa pressed.

"Kripa there is nothing to avoid. Look, I'm at a point of my life where I can't love someone. I've been through so much that no one would want to accept me as what I am."

"What if I say there is someone."

Angad froze, what was in Kripa's mind? "What do you mean Kripa?"

"What if I ask you to move on with me?" She asked taking at step closer to him. Angad put his hands on Kripa's shoulders.

"I wish it was that easy Kripa." He said smiling. Kripa looked into his cool, calm eyes, and there once again Angad proved that what he was saying was truth. He once again was successful in proving that he didn't love Kripa at all, nor did he ever think about it.

Kripa finally smiled, "I think this has got to serious, how about we lighten up the mood?" Angad nodded in agreement. "Where would you like to have dinner Mr. Khanna?"

Angad smiled as she called him Mr. Khanna, he put his arms around her hugged her unexpectedly. "You're a true friend Kripa." He whispered into her ear. "I'm really happy to have you." Kripa hugged him under the moonlight and smiled thinking, confident that one day Angad will hold her saying he's lucky to have her as his better half, he's luck to have her in her life, he is lucky to have loved her. In that case, it would be Kripa who would be lucky not Angad. Right now, in this perfect moment she was ready to wait her entire life for Angad's love. As Kripa's thoughts finished, they parted. Angad wished he could kiss Kripa in the moment, but he knew he couldn't do that. But it was as if Kripa had read his mind, she drew closer to her and kissed his cheek.

*****

Thirty minutes later Kripa and Angad sat in a small restaurant, outside. It was quite as everyone was inside the restaurant. Both Kripa and Angad wanted to avoid the noise so they sat outside, laughing and talking, remembering old days.

Kripa laughed as Angad told her joke after joke. Finally she took a hold of her self and sipped on her coffee. "Remember that day when Scoot asked you out, and Megan was right there, you should have seen his face." Angad chuckled.

"I did, how could I ever forget." Kripa held her coffee in her hand, "those were the days Angad. Who had imagined at that time that you and I, would be sitting here almost eight years later, married." Angad shrugged in agreement.

"Well, I don't know if anyone did or didn't but if Meagan found out today she won't be to happy, she seemed to be jealous of you all the time."

"Well, that's true and you were the reason."

"Me?" Angad asked after sipping a sip from his coffee.

"Yes you, I mean she got attention from every guy at school, but then there was one Angad Khanna, the top-most football player who didn't even look at her. That was why I hold you responsible." Kripa said putting her empty cup of coffee down.

"Hey, it's not my fault you had cast a spell on me. See the problem was you were extra smart, I mean come on, you were in pre-cal as a freshman, and A.P. bio as a freshman, I was blown away."

"Oh so it was that what you got me closer." Kripa said faking the disappointment in her voice.

"Of course, but still no matter how much I deny it, you were kind of the first girl I dated!"

"Why?"

"Well, until my senior year we didn't need date to go to our dances, and that year we did, and if you still remember I after all did kiss you as we walked back." Kripa felt her cheeks turn red, and she felt them burn. At this point it was easy to make out Kripa was embarrassed by his comment.

"I'm sorry." Angad said looking away from Kripa, "I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable."

"It's ok," Kripa smiled.

"Ok, dinner is done, it's nine, what would you like to do next? Please don't say go home as I swear I will strangle you and kill you!"

"Will you really?" Kripa asked lifting one eyebrow.

"Um… depends on how I feel at the moment."

"Angad I-"

"No, you promised me a long outing, or date, or whatever you want to call it. And anyways, if I take you back home now, five years from now when we are fighting you'll say, "Angad that night you brought me back home, what more can I expect from you."

Kripa smiled, "You think we'll be together five years from now?"

I hope so, Angad thought. "Why, are you planning to leave me and run away, without telling me?"

"Kind of! Why, should I?"

"Sure, just make sure you tell me where your going!" Angad said grinning. Kripa punched his arm and laughed. "Ok that's enough now tell me what are we doing next?"

"Well, if we plan for a movie, the next show isn't till ten, we have fifty minutes still." Kripa said checking her phone for the time.

"Then?"

"Then?"

Angad looked at Kripa for a second, "I have an idea."

"What?"

"I'll tell you come with me." Angad quickly paid the bill and dragged Kripa back to the car.

The streets were quite empty And Angad drove at a steady pace. "Angad, where are we going?" Kripa asked looking through the music Angad had in his car.

"You'll know." He said looking at the road, "And can you stop changing the tracks and just leave one song on."

"Angad, you have a really bad taste."

"Ya, I realized after marrying you!" Kripa's mouth dropped open as she looked at him. "What?" Angad asked looking at her, and then quickly back at the road.

"You're a rude man Angad!" Kripa said looking away. Angad smiled to himself as Kripa frowned.

"Kripa…Kripa…Kripa!!!"

"What is it?" She yelled back. Angad stopped the car in a crowed place, and in front of herself Kripa saw the large ferries wheel. "Angad, please no!" She said looking at him, scared.

"What do you mean no?" He got out of the car and then walked to Kripa's door and opened the door for her. She swallowed and stepped out. It was still windy, and cold. Angad looked at a scared Kripa, who was holding his arm tightly. "Tum darpook ho!" He whispered in her ear. Kripa looked at Angad and smiled.

"Haan, main darpook ho, happy, now lets go back." She turned to leave.

Wait, that's now how it was suppose to be, Angad was suppose to tell Kripa she was a chicken and she was suppose to get mad and go with him. Angad ran to Kripa and held her arm. "Kripa, please!" He pleaded.

"Angad ask me for anything else and I'll give it to you, but not this."

Angad thought for a second, "Really," He asked. Kripa nodded. "Forget it, lets go." Kripa knew Angad was disappointed and she stood there for a second.

"Angad!" She called. He turned and looked at her, "Let's go!" She finally said. Angad smiled and walked back to Kripa.

As the two got closer to the ride, Kripa held Angad's arm tighter, tight enough it hurt him. "Kripa," He said as they got into the capsule along with the other passengers most of them couples, quite young. Kripa looked at him nervously.

"Angad, in case I'm dead when this ride ends, I just want to let you know how much I love you, and what a great friend you are!" Angad rolled his eyes.

"You're an idiot!" He said holding her hand. The ride moved up some, and Kripa skipped a million heart beats, and she dug her nails into Angad's hands. "Kripa stop it, your behaving like a kid."

Kripa looked at Angad, "Tell me something you hate doing and we should do that next!" Kripa taunted him, "Then tell me how you feel."

"Well, there is nothing I'm scared of." The ride moved up more, still loading passengers. There were other couples who were excited, and the couldn't wait to view London from the top. Angad wanted Kripa to calm down because he knew she was going to enjoy the scene when the capsule got to the top. She was still looking at Angad. Angad took a deep breath and held Kripa.

"Why are you making me do this Angad?"

"Because, your going to love it at the end."

Kripa pulled away and sighed, "I better like it." She said. Behind Angad's arm she saw a young couple really excited, she could tell they were tourist, and this was almost like their dream to be here one day. Kripa smiled seeing their excitement. Angad was confused to see her smile and all her nervousness go away within seconds.

"Kripa," he called, "what made you smile?"

"That couple."

Angad turned and looked at them and smiled him self, the ride moved suddenly, just a bit faster and Kripa tugged on Angad's arm again. "Angad?"

"Ya?"

"Look!" Angad turned and looked, they were at the top and the whole city was in view, it was beautiful. Angad stood behind Kripa, Kripa still holding his hand but at this point gently, with love. Angad's eyes moved to look at Kripa. She had an awed expression on her face and she leaned into Angad and just looked out. Angad wanted to look at the view, but it was impossible to look away from Kripa. She was mesmerizing, so flawless. At this point Angad asked himself how does he manage to hide his feelings?

"It's beautiful," Kripa gasped.

"Yes you are," Angad said lost in his own world. Kripa caught on his comment, she felt his breath on her neck. Kripa slowly turned and looked at Angad, who quickly looked away. "I mean, it is. I told you, you were going to love it." Kripa looked at him and smiled, for the first time she though that Angad does love her, but then she thought, why didn't he tell her. Kripa turned around and looked out again. Angad felt his phone vibrate and picked it up.

"Angad? Where are you guys?" Asked a worried Shahid.

"I'm with Kripa. She was really mad at me, and I had to make it up to her." Anagd said sounding sorry. Kripa heard him and smiled.

"Yes, you did!" Shahid agreed, "You guys coming back soon?"

"Well, were in London's Eye." Angad explained.

"With Kripa?"

"No Shahid, I'm not with Kripa. I'm with Ashiwariya Rai!" Kripa smiled at his comment, and his annoyed tone.

"Chill man, when are you guys coming back."

"Never! Kripa and I are planning to run away!"

"You guys should, it might help."

"Enough Shahid, I don't know when we are coming back, this ride is thirty minutes long, we still have about fifteen minutes. Then, we might go for a movie."

"Good!" Shahid said.

"Ya, now if your done interrogating I can hang-up?"

"Yes, bye."

"Bye." Angad put his phone down nodding his head and walked back to Kripa. "I still can't believe that Shahid and I are best friends." Angad said laughing now.

"Hmm… if you and Shahid are best friends, then what am I?"

"Good question, when you find out tell me."

Kripa twisted her lips and moved her gaze to Angad, "And I can't believe that you are my best friend, and to add icing to the cake, sadly my sweet husband."

"Sadly, sweet?" Angad repeated.

"Yes, because you are sweetest person!" Kripa said pulling his cheek.

"I know, everyone tells me that." They both smiled at each other looked out again.

Fifteen minutes later Kripa and Anagd exited the capsule. "Well Mrs. Khanna, you survived, now tell me what you were saying earlier. Oh yes, if I don't survive you wanted to let me know, what a great friend I was, and how much you loved me, right?" Kripa's nose wrinkled as Angad spoke, "By the way, do you really?"

"Do I really, what?"

"You know, love me!" Kripa caught the naughtiness in his voice.

"Angad, I'm not an idiot. If you were the last person alive, I wouldn't love you!"

"Uh-huh! Sure you wouldn't." Angad said as Kripa walked away. He stood there hands on the sides of his stomach, twisting his lips he thought, has she started to love me? Kripa walked to the car smiling as well, does he love me? She asked herself. Then they both shook the thought and Angad ran to Kripa.

Pyaar Ka Pal: Part 40

They went for a movie, the eleven show and came back home around one that night. It was indeed the best night they had spend spent together, there was a strange type of chemistry between them. Angad feel on the bed, and turned his head to look at the clock. Wow, he thought, time really flew with Kripa. Kripa really tired went to the bathroom and changed into her night suit. She came out rubbing her eyes and found Anagd sleeping on the sofa with his shoes on. She smiled at him and kneeled down beside him and took his shoes off for him, and gave him a blanket and a pillow under his head. She turned to leave and go to bed when instead she sat down on the sofa next to Anagd and caressed his hair. She thought back to every event that night, everything. Angad turned and his head landed in Kripa's lap. Kripa bent down and kissed him and then putting his head where it belongs she went to bed herself.

Next morning it was Saturday and they didn't have anything to worry about. Angad didn't have to go to office, and he had shifted to the bed around five in the morning and slept till around ten.

While Angad slept, Kripa and Shahid played tennis, discussing current events, new movies that were out, what was happing right now at another place. Shahid complaining about Anjali once again and lastly Kripa's and Angad's night out. Shahid hit the ball over the next and Kripa back at him, a nice hit making Shahid lose the ball, and allowing Kripa to win the game. Kripa but his racket down and picked up her water and drank thought it. Shahid sat on the grass beside her, panting. "So, any hope yet? It's been almost a month."

"I have hope, I mean Angad was a different person last night."

"That's nice to hear, I didn't expect him to take you out and make up for what he did."

"I was too, and I was more surprised when I saw his expression, after Prithvi and I had finished hugging."

"Wait up- where did Prithvi come from?"

"Well, Prithvi had asked me out to dinner before, and I couldn't say "No" to him at the last moment, so I went to dinner with, but didn't really eat anything, and then Angad picked me up, and we had dinner and we went to the London's Eye, and then we saw a movie."

"That's exciting, just make sure you don't tell Anjali as she will kill me."

"Why?"

"I've never taken her out like this, never." He sighed, "I should!"

"You should, specially after this trip Of hers, you should. It's nice to spend sometime with the person you love sometimes."

"Really, who loves who?" Kripa turned and saw Angad standing at the door way still in his night cloths, it was nearing eleven now.

"Good morning Angad." Kripa said standing up, her shorts stained from the grass.

"Good morning, Kripa. Shahid." He said back. "So who loves who?"

"Shahid and Anjali."

"Oh! When is Anjali coming back." He asked.

"Tomorrow." Shahid sighed. "Well I'm going to go for now." He threw the racket to Anagd, "You two can play now, tell me who wins." And Shahid left.

"Kripa, you ready to loose?" Angad asked.

"Very funny, I just beat Shahid, now it's your turn." Kripa said picking up her empty water bottle, "Practice until I get myself some more water. And Angad, you be ready to loose." Kripa left and Angad looked ahead.

"Why do we always have to talk about winning and loosing?" He asked himself.

Angad and Kripa played, and yes Kripa won. After throwing the ball in the air, she ran around the court, like a little kid telling him Angad lost. Angad grinned and ran behind Kripa, who ran faster now. After a few laps around the court they both sat down, and caught their breath. Kripa reached for her water but before she could drink Angad snatched it from her and drank half of it. And then gave it to her, Kripa instead of drinking it spilled the water on Angad's head and ran inside the house. Angad ran behind her, she ran around the sofa and Angad threw the bottle at her, and it hit her head, they both stopped. "Oops!" He said holding his head. Kripa threw the bottle back at him and he caught it. "Sorry!" He said again.

"It's ok!" Kripa said pouring herself another glass of water. Angad, Shahid, and Kripa decided to go out for dinner that night. They all sat in Olive Garden in the porch. It was indeed a cold night and all three were dressed in jackets.

Kripa rubbed her hands together, as they all sat and talked. Shahid and Anagd were busy talking and Kripa was kind of left out. She looked around the place, it was charming. Lights flickered everywhere. The place was lightened by fire lamps in the walk way and around the area. It was just so nice. Kripa was still examining the place when she felt someone's hand on her shoulder. She turned to see Prithvi standing there. Shocked she slowly stood up, and they hugged. Angad was quite, and very disappointed. Why did he always end up around Kripa, he thought. Shahid and Anagd stood up as well and shook hands.

"What bring you here?" Kripa asked as she gave Prithvi her chair and sat beside Angad.

"Oh, nothing I was here with a few clients." He said making himself comfortable.

Kripa and Prithvi were soon engaged in a conversation and Angad and Shahid sat there quietly, listening. Neither one of them liked the idea of Prithvi being there, I mean wasn't this suppose to be their night out? They both sighed and Anagd stood up excusing himself for sometime.

As he left Kripa right away knew Anagd didn't like Prithvi being there. Kripa had noticed Angad hadn't liked Prithvi from the start. Was it because he was once engaged to his wife, and it was clear Prithvi still loved her, or was it something else? What ever the reason Anagd didn't like the fact Prithvi ever came into their life, and he exists.

Kripa watched him walk away, and turned to Prithvi, "Excuse me Prithvi, I'll be right back." He nodded, and Kripa left. Shahid felt almost scared sitting there with Prithvi now.

Angad still had his bad habit of smoking and that's what he was about to do, when Kripa snatched the box from his hand and threw it in the dust-bin beside her.

"What are you doing," She asked, angry.

"Nothing, but what did you do that for?"

Kripa took a deep breath she didn't want to have an argument. "Angad, something is wrong, and it relates Prithvi."

"No, everything is fine." He said turning from her.

"Really, then why did you leave," she stood in front of Angad, her arms crossed at her chest. Then again she took a deep breath, and moved closer to Angad. "Angad you can tell me." She told him, putting one hand on his cheek.

"Kripa, it's nothing, I just wanted to be away from the crowd for sometime, that's all." Kripa figured he didn't want to tell.

"Ok, in that case, lets go back home."

"Kripa, your acting silly." Kripa looked at him right into the eye and held her gaze until Angad rolled his eyes. "Fine, I'm sorry, I didn't like the idea of Prithvi being around, happy? Now lets go." Angad turned and started to walk away while Kripa stood there smiling. She liked the fact Angad was a little possessive.

He turned and looked at her, "Kripa," she snapped out and walked to Angad, and they went back to their table. Shahid and Prithvi were sharing a small conversation about the share market, they continued to talk when Kripa looked at Angad.

"And, if I ever catch you doing what you were, I will cut you head and put it for auction." She told him in a whisper.

He smiled and she smiled back at him. And they turned back to Shahid and Prithvi who were still talking. The waiter got there to take their order. "I'm going to leave now, It was nice meeting you guys." The men shook hands and Kripa just smiled, instead of standing up and hugging. Prithvi was disappointed, and left.

"He's quite an interesting man." Shahid said smiling.

"Interesting? Ya right. He's boring, I know because I have to deal with him almost everyday at work." As he spoke Kripa giggled and Shahid received his call, and Kripa and Angad placed there order.

"I have to go, Anjali called, and her plan is landing today in an hour."

"Then we should just go with you." Angad offered, Kripa wasn't happy with this comment at all.

"Angad look, if you really hate Anjali and my pair so much tell me, but don't be a kabab main haddi!" He said turning. "Stay, I'm leaving." Soon he disappeared, and Kripa laughed.

"Why are you laughing?"

"Why, is my laughing banned?"

Angad leaned and moved closer to Kripa, "Tell me something?"

"Is it a secret?" Kripa asked.

"No."

"Then why the hushed tone, and what are you doing so close to me." She moved away, and Angad twisted his lips, "Now ask."

"Ok, tell me-"

"Ask me."

"Will you let me finish, why are we always fighting?"

"Good question, when you find the answer tell me, I want to know as well." Angad grinned, "Sure." Their food arrived and they both eat having a light conversation.

After dinner Kripa and Angad walked on an empty beach, bare foot. Water rolled up on Kripa's feet, freezing them, but she liked it. There were very few people on the beach, mostly couples, a few little kids, and Angad and Kripa. The water rolled up on Kripa's feet again, and with it washed a sea shell. She bend down and picked it up. Holding it next to her ear she listened to the calm sounds of the waves. Angad watched her. To him she acted like a little girl who was living in a fairy tale, where everything was perfect. Kripa looked at Angad, "What are you looking at," she asked.

"Nothing," he said. Kripa moved away from the shore, and they both moved to a large rock.

"Angad, can I tell you something?"

"Yes."

"Thanks." Kripa said looking at him.

"Welcome, but for what?"

"The last two days have been the best days of my life. Only if the rest of my life could be so perfect."

"So you mean your life is perfect?"

"Well, almost."

"Almost? What's missing?"

"Something, and when I have it, I'll tell you."

"Ok, now can I tell you something?"

"Sure."

"I'm sorry."

"For what?"

"I'm sorry to ruin the moment but, I have to leave on Monday."

"Where?" Kripa asked disappointed.

"We have a banking issue with the FBI, and we will be flying to France."

Kripa sighed, "Ok."

"Are you mad at me?"

"Not really, I can't be. It's your job, your responsible for it."

"So you really don't mind me working for the FBI?"

"Well, yes, kind of."

"Kind of?" Kripa looked at Anagd and then rested her head on his shoulder.

"It's fine with me, but I guess I worry something."

"I'll quite if you want me to." Angad joked.

"No, even if you were serious, I wouldn't let you quite because of me. After all, Hum Aapka Hai Kaun?"

"Oh that's pathetic Kripa." Angad said taking his arm away, he looked away hurt. But Kripa was glad her comment hurt him.

"I was just kidding Angad."

Angad looked at her, but didn't smile, "That was then, a really disgusting joke!"

Angad stood up but Kripa pulled him back down, "Angad you know that you have major anger management problems."

"Well, if you going to talk non-sense then of course."

"Ok I said sorry." She held her ears and smiled, "Please."

"It's ok. Now lets go, nahie tho abhi Shahid ka phone aa jay ga. "Kaha ho tum," I tell you that Shahid."

"He won't call." Kripa said laughing.

"Why?"

"He most likely busy shouting at Anjali for taking such a long trip, and I feel like shouting at you for going away on Monday, and is Shahid going with you?"

"No."

"Thank god!"

"Why?"

"Anjali wouldn't be to happy. How long are going to be gone for?" Kripa asked as She held Angad's hand and jumped from the rock.

"Three days."

"Not bad, do you want me to take care for the office until you are gone."

"I would never do that."

"Why?"

"I don't think I want you to deal with Prithvi."

"What do you have against Prithvi?"

"Nothing big, but the fact he was engaged to you."

"For like ten minutes."

"The point isn't for ten minutes, days, or months, but the point is you guys were engaged period."

"Does it really matter?" Kripa said leaning on the car.

"Yes, I guess."

"Why?"

"Kripa you ask to much question." Angad said unlocking the car.

"Angad, last question."

"Make it quick."

"How long will it take you to accept you love me?" Angad froze and looked at Kripa. Her eyes were soft and sad. Everything got quite and all Angad could hear was the faint sound of the waves and Kripa breathing. Black clouds rolled over them and lightning rumbled thought he city. It started to rain and at the corner of his eye Angad could see people running to there cars. The rain got heavier, and Angad and Kripa stood there looking at each other.

Pyaar Ka Pal: Part 41

Angad regains senses and parts his lips to speak but nothing comes out, almost as if someone stole his voice box from him. Kripa stood there still Angad kept looking at her. "Kripa… what are you talking about?" He finally spoke.

"You know exactly what I'm talking about Angad." Kripa said over the loud rain. Once again there was silence, and they both just looked at each other. Anagd was getting really tensed when suddenly Kripa started to laugh. Anagd relaxed as he saw her laugh and then Kripa stood still taking a deep breath. "Angad, tum paagal ho!" She hits her hand against his head, "Now lets sit in the car, or both of us will get sick. She opens the door and sit down, while a still confused Angad sat down behind the wheel. "Main maazak kar rahi thi." Kripa sat as he sat down.

Angad looked at her with twisted lips; "I kind of figured." He ran both hands though his hair and sneezed, and then sneezed again. Kripa reached at the back seat and got Angad's jacket and he put it on, sneezing a few more times.

"Angad, you want me to drive?" Kripa asked feeling his forehead.

"No, I think I can handle it."

"You think, Angad I'll drive."

"Kripa it's ok really, I can drive. Plus you hate driving."

"I know, but still, I'm driving. Come on."

"Kripa I-"

"Angad NOW!" They both switched seats and Kripa drove home carefully thought the rainy streets. When they got home Shahid and Anjali weren't home yet. Kripa made Angad change quickly while she changed herself and made him a cup of coffee. Right from the beginning Angad had been very sensitive when it came to getting colds. It was almost as if he was allergic to the rain. Normally he wouldn't get sick in the rain, but when he did it would be bad. Angad got out of the bathroom and sat on the sofa. Closing his eyes, relaxing himself. Kripa came back with coffee for him. She set it down on the table and checked Angad's forehead. Angad opened his eyes and looked at Kripa. "Coffee." She handed the coffee to him and he enjoyed the strong yet soothing to the throat taste. "Angad, you are going to sleep on the sofa tonight." Kripa said getting up, when Angad grabbed her hand, she sat back down next to him.

"Kripa, why did you ask me that question earlier?"

"I just wanted to see your reaction." Kripa said holding his hand. "And I think you have a fever."

"No I don't he said putting his cup down. And, I'm not sleeping on the bed, I'm not going sleep beside you and get you sick. And, your not sleeping on the sofa."

"Anagd, I'm not as sensitive as you are!" Kripa joked as she sat back. "And I didn't ask if you wanted to sleep on the bed, I told you."

"Kripa, I think you were Hitler's sister." Kripa took a cushion from the sofa and started hitting him with it. Anagd grabbed it from after sometime and said, "You were his sister, or else you wouldn't hit your, poor, ill husband. You don't have any mercy for me, do you?"

"Of course not. Now get up and right in bed, until then I'll get to some type of medicine."

"Make sure it's medicine and not poison."

Kripa turned and smiled, "I won't let you get rid of me so quickly."

"Kripa."

"Yes, Anagd."

"Can I get one more cup of coffee?"

"Sure." She left while Angad, unable to walk, his body burning, moved to the bed. He sat down and pulled the blanket over him. A few minutes later Kripa came back with two cups of coffee and Angad's medicine. She handed him the coffee and tablets and then sat down on the bed side checking his temperature. "Well, it's kind of high." She sounded depressed, as she spoke Angad looked at her.

"Kripa ji, it's only a cold, I'll be fine with I wake up tomorrow."

"No you won't. And I'm the-"

"You're the doctor, and you know better. I know that. But your getting worked up for no reason." Kripa looked at Anagd and then picked up her own coffee.

"What ever you say Anagd." After finishing her coffee Kripa went back to the bathroom and changed into her night suit. She sat on the bed and pulled out a book and started reading while Angad was flipping thought the T.V. channels. He stopped the T.V. when a Gerber, the baby food brand, commercial was coming. Kripa stopped reading and looked at the screen. As it ended Kripa sighed, "I miss Kris." She finally said. Angad sunk lower into the bed.

"I know. I miss him too."

Kripa put her book away and sat up. "Angad, have you ever thought about tomorrow?"

Angad was confused, sometimes Kripa would just randomly pick topics. "I guess, actually I was planning to work out tomorrow and-"

"Angad, shut-up. I'm talking about your future, not what your planning to do tomorrow."

"Oh- well, I don't know. But why are you asking?"

"Just like that. I was think about when I was younger-"

"Young as in four years old."

"No Angad, young as in sixteen, seventeen."

"Ok."

"Well I used lay in my bed and think about my future."

"Like?"

"Like, when I get married how many kids I would have and what would I name them. If I wanted a boy or girl first, and all that."

Angad looked at a dreaming Kripa. "Ok. It was nice of you to share your feelings but what exactly was the point?"

"My point is, that I wish I never grew out of that age." Kripa sat back and frowned. "I loved those days, nothing to worry about. And now-" She sighed again, "All I do is worry. Something I think I'll die without ever having kids of my own."

"Ok, so your point is that, you are depressed because you won't have kids?"

"Not exactly."

"Then?"

"I don't know."

"Before Mom passed away, I actually started talking to her, and in case you wanted to know my Mom had always wanted me to marry Prithvi Bose, anyways, she discussed the matter with me a few times, but I would ignore it every time. And as I grew up I was also sacred to have kids of own because I was never loved, I thought I would treat my kids the same way. So during those days I decided I didn't want kids. The day I told my Mom, she laughed at me. She told me when I get a little older, and I get married I won't think the way I do today. And I guess she was correct." Anagd listened to her patiently.

"Why did you not listen to your parents and marry Prithvi?"

Kripa looked at Anagd, "I used to dislike Prithvi myself."

"And you like him now?"

"Well he's not as bad as I thought he was."

"Keep going, your life seems to be quite interesting."

"Well, back to my original point, I guess I do want kids."

"How many?"

"I want… um… two! A boy and a girl."

"Ok, keep dreaming, I'm going to sleep now." Kripa looked at Angad in disbelief. She jumped closer to him and made him sit back up.

"Angad, I'm not done yet."

"Well, then talk to the wall."

"Angad, I hate you!"

"I'm honored."

"Angad." She shook him again.

"What type of a doctor are you? You don't let your patient rest."

"Well, Mr. Patient, you're my husband before my patient now get up Mr."

Angad pulled Kripa closer, "I don't want to hear it, because it makes me feel guilty Kripa."

Kripa looked into Angad's eyes and she got closer, "Why?" She whispered.

"Because, at this point you are married to me. That's why I'm feeling guilty, because I'm your husband."

Kripa still looked at Angad, she knew exactly what Angad was trying to tell her, indirectly. "Angad have you ever thought about me?"

"About you?"

"Yes me, Angad, I'm married to you. And I want to get out of our relationship of being just friends. I want to move on. Angad, I was serious when I asked you, how long it would take you to realize that you love me? Angad, I want to my kids to have your name, I want to be a mother of you kids."

"Kripa, I think your not in your senses, we should talk tomorrow."

Angad turned, but Kripa made him look at her again, "Angad, I'm serious. We don't have a reason to stay away. We don't have a reason to not share the relationship a husband and wife share."

"Do we have a reason to share a relationship?" Angad asked angry.

"Yes."

"What is it?" He said, trying to control his anger. He couldn't believe Kripa. It was almost like a dream.

"I love you, that's the reason." Angad's eyes froze as Kripa spoke, he read her lips as she spoke again, "I love you Angad." He still couldn't believe and as Kripa repeated herself once again, Angad paid close attention to her lips and made sure he heard her right, "I love you Angad, I don't-"

"Your lying, you think you love me." Kripa got up angry now.

"Angad, what makes you think you know my feelings better than I do? Damn it do you even know how long I've waited to tell you that I love you?" Angad walked to Kripa and grabbed her arm, and spun her around.

"Kripa, you have seriously lost it. You don't know what your talking about."

"I know exactly what I'm taking about, Angad. But you have to realize what you haven't. Angad I can't live incomplete my whole life."

"Then leave me Kripa, because I can't live the way you want me to." Angad yelled. "Divorce me Kripa, and after that you can live the way you want to." Tears ran from her eyes as Anagd went back to bed. Kripa locked the door and closed the lights. She laid on the sofa and cried herself to sleep. Angad on the other hand heard cry until she did. He knew what he did was right. He knew Kripa wouldn't never love anyone else, and he was glad she loved him. But he couldn't let her know he loved her as well.

Next morning, Kripa woke up, after dreaming about her and Angad getting divorced. She sat up and started crying again. She looked at the bed and didn't find Angad there. And then found Angad coming out of the bathroom. He looked flushed, looking even more sick than last night. Kripa wiped her tears, she decided to forget everything, and walked to Angad. "Good morning Angad." She said, as she would every morning. And looked at her.

"Kripa, I feel terrible." He said laying back down. Angad right now didn't care about anything, he felt so terrible. Kripa sat down beside him and checked his temperature. It was worst then last night, Kripa's eyes were red, and now Angad realized she had been crying again.

"Angad, what are you doing up so early anyways? It's only six."

"I can't sleep Kripa, I'm really cold." Kripa stood up and got her blanket and gave it to Angad and made him lay back down. Kripa turned the heating on, and stood to leave when Angad caught her hand. Kripa sat back down and looked at him. Anagd took a deep breath and put his head on Kripa's lap. "I'm sorry Kripa, maybe I shouldn't have reacted the way I did. But I was just shocked." Kripa caressed his hair as he spoke. "Give me some time Kripa, please." He was only saying this to make her feel better. Kripa smiled and bent down and kissed his head.

"It's ok Angad. I can understand."

"Thanks." Some time later Angad fell asleep again still his head in Kripa lap. Kripa went out and realized no one was home, Shahid wasn't back yet, and it was raining heavily outside still. It was only 6:15 and Kripa decided to go back to bed. She lied down next to Angad and closer her eyes, soon falling asleep. But this time she again dreamed of Angad, this time leaving her for someone else. Kripa woke up sweating and panting. Anagd woke up with the sudden movement and saw a panicked Kripa. He was worried to see Kripa like this suddenly. He sat up and put his hand on her shoulder. Kripa jerked and looked at Angad. Then she broke down hugging him. Angad hugged her back and calmed her down, and then told asked her what happened. She just said that she had a bad dream, Angad made her go back to sleep, and she slept holding Angad. Anagd couldn't sleep, he could tell she didn't sleep all night. "Maybe I shouldn't have reacted the way I did", Anagd thought. "She didn't say anything wrong. It was all true." He saw the worried look on her face still, but she was sleeping now. Anagd kissed her forehead and went back to sleep.

Pyaar Ka Pal: Part 42

It was around 6, evening and Anagd wasn't any better. He had cancelled his trip as well and he had laid in bed all day. Shahid and Anjali were back later that day. They were stuck due to closed roads. Shahid had spend most of the with Anjali in their room, while Kripa spend most of the time studying a patient's case while Angad laid next to her sleeping for the most part. Angad would mostly wake up when he started coughing, or he was cold. Kripa tried not to make eye contact with him for the most part, and Angad felt really bad when he saw Kripa talk to him still looking into her file.

Anjali had to report to the hospital, so Shahid and her went there. It was around seven, and Kripa was in the kitchen preparing dinner for Angad and her. Angad was awake and finally feel much better.

A few minutes later Kripa went back with light soup for Angad, who was sitting up with a file in his hand. So engrossed, he didn't notice Kripa. Kripa put the tray down and snatched the file out of his hand and locked it away. Angad just looked at her confused, "Angad, itna confused mata dikho. Forget about even touching any files, or any type of work for a week or so."

"What? Kripa-"

"Exactly what you heard," she said handing him his soup. "Now sit quietly and drink this."

Angad looked at his dinner, "Is this all I get?"

"Yes."

"Ok, then I'll be dead by tomorrow morning, and this time I just want you to know, your very special." He said steering his soup.

"Stop talking non-sense Angad, keep quite and drink!" Angad nodded his head and drank his soup little by little. Kripa sat next to him looking thought a few papers again.

"Kripa, I'm noticing from morning, what are you studying?"

"Well," she said closing the file, "I was studying a medical thing but right now I'm studying your file."

"Huh?"

"You can't work, but I can. So for the next week, I will be managing your office with you! Problems? And, don't worry about Prithvi he is out of country for a few weeks!" Angad noticed the naught tone that was in her voice and just smiled, "So Mr. Khanna, any questions?"

"Um… No! But if you need help you can ask me."

'I will, that only if I need help! And-"

"Yes I know, you won't need help."

"Righto!" Angad finished his soup and put the bowl to aside. Angad watched T.V. while Kripa went through the files. Angad, at one point instead of looking at the T.V. started watching Kripa work. He looked at her, and the way she twirled the pen's cap in her mouth. It was a art in it self for Angad. He thought it was adorable. He kept observing her as she took the pen out of her mouth and played with it between her fingers and then tucking it behind her ear. And, then a few seconds later taking it out and turning to Angad only to find him looking right at her. She looked at for a few seconds and then spoke slowly, "Angad, I need your signatures here."

"Huh?" Angad snapped back.

"Your signatures." Kripa said blushing, tucking a piece of her hair behind her ear.

"Oh! Ya right." He took the file from her and singed it. And then continued looking at her.

"Angad, do you need something?" Angad nodded his head, "What?"

"I'm still hungry he complained."

"Well, how about a light toast?"

"No, how about a toast butter heavily, please!"

"Ok, with?"

"Um… coffee?"

"Fine, I'll get it." Kripa got back with his "dinner" and handed it to him. Anagd had it, still not to happy. But better than before. Soon he finished eating and turned to Kripa. Kripa looked at him and started laughing. Angad was quite confused.

"What?"

Kripa leaned forward and wiped his cheek with a napkin. "You actually looked pretty cute with butter on you cheeks, and that to on both side." Kripa handed him a mirror and looked through it. "Don't you look cute, my two year old!" Kripa got up and ran away, quickly wiping his other cheek. Angad chased after her, and then soon caught her. He was tired, and panting by the time he had grabbed her. And for some time they both stood there laughing while hugging each other. Suddenly Angad let go of Kripa, and they both turned quite. Angad turned to leave when Kripa held his hand. He faced her and looked at her for a few seconds. She took a step closer to him and put his arms around him, soon crying with her face buried in his chest. Angad felt really guilty for making Kripa feel this way. Maybe if he hadn't spend so much time with Kripa in the past days, maybe this would have never happened. Maybe it was his fault all along. Angad pulled away from her and wiped her tears. Kripa looked at him and then broke down again. Now Angad made her sit down on the sofa and kneeled down beside her. "Kripa, if I have to start taking care of you, who will take care of me?" But it wasn't helping, and Kripa kept crying. Now Angad sat down beside her and put her arms around her. "Kripa, it's not possible." He finally said, "I can't give you what you are asking for." Kripa cried in his arms for some more time and she parted. She wiped her tears and smiled. Angad looked at him confused.

"Angad, you don't have to give me what I'm asking for."

'But Kripa until now you-"

"I guess I was silly." Kripa said twirling a ring in her hand. Angad looked down at it and noticed it was the same ring she had freshman year, her school ring. It was really pretty, with a blue diamond and on the sides carved Kripa K. and the year she graduated, that time "K" for Kapoor, now "K" for Khanna. Kripa Khanna, Kripa Angad Khanna, it sounded so… perfect. Angad figured that the only reason she was wearing the ring on her engagement finger because no one other than Angad had gifted her the ring. Angad tried to remember where his was, but of course, he had no idea. He though deeper but he couldn't remember. Kripa looked at Angad's confused face and rested her hand on his knee. "Angad, don't be confused. You look like a fifty year old grandpa whose thinking during a game of chess." Angad looked at Kripa and smiled, and then rested his hand on Kripa's, but she took it back. Angad looked away hurt, and then spoke Again.

"Kripa, why don't you take a project like Anjali did?"

Kripa observed Angad for a few seconds, "You really want me to be away from you don't you?"

Angad laughed now, "It will only be good for both of us, more for you."

Kripa stood up and smiled, "Your wrong Angad. It will only be good for you. Because, for me staying away from you is equal to hell." Kripa left as her words echoed around Angad, "for me staying away from you is equal to hell." He thought again and then noticed a tear trickling down his eye to his hand. Then wiping his tear he smiled, "Isn't this what you wanted Angad?" He asked him self. "You wanted to know if Kripa loved you, and now that you know your crying over it. She loves you, that's what you wanted then why don't you accept her. Why don't you tell her how much you love her? Why are you running away from her. Why do you want her away from you? Why, Angad, why?" These question wondered in his head as he woke up midnight, sweating. He was breathing fast, then he looked to the other side of his bed and didn't find Kripa there. He looked at the sofa and found Kripa sitting there. It was dark in the room, and Angad could make out she was sitting up, her head against the side of the sofa. Angad figured she was still awake, or maybe sleeping. He sat back in his bed and swallowed and realized that what happened was real. Kripa had told him she loved him, and everything was real. He sighed, and saw Kripa's outline in the dark move. He sat up, and then slowly stood up walking to the sofa. He sat down beside Kripa and saw her face under the moon. She slept hugging a pillow, shifting her head constantly. Angad knew she was uncomfortable, yet to lazy to move. Sleep was Kripa's life, or the love of her life? Angad laughed as he watched her, he put a pillow behind her head but it fell over and Kripa's head landed on Angad's shoulder. She cuddled up against him, and put her arms around him. Angad smiled again, as he, tempted, kissed her cheek. "I love you too Kripa." He said holding her as well. There was no way Anagd could fall back asleep. Scared for some reason to wake up and realize begin all a dream. A dream, that he's so close to Kripa. A dream, that he knew for a fact Kripa loved him. A dream that he's heart broken to know he can never tell Kripa he's in love with Kripa will the same amount of passion with which she was in love with him. Angad held her tighter and closer. After holding Kripa close to him for a few hours Angad compelled himself to stand up. After straitening his shirt he looked at Kripa again. She was still looking uncomfortable; Angad bent down and picked Kripa up into his arms. After carrying her to the bed and pulled the covers over her and went to the sofa himself. He couldn't be close to her when he woke up next morning. And he knew this would happen, because he did. He watched Kripa sleep, and then turned his face, shut his eyes.

Next morning, Angad woke up, and sat up stretching. Noticing Kripa is not in bed, which is tidy and made, he looked at the bathroom. The door was open and the light was shut. He looked at the clock yawning, and read nine. He had slept in. He stood up rubbing his eyes and walked into the bathroom. Turned the light on and washed his face with cold water and brushed his teeth. And then looked into the mirror and found a note taped to the mirror. He took it off and read it. Sorry, I had to leave in the morning. Don't stress your self and relax. Love you, Kripa. P.S. Thanks, for what you did last night, but you didn't have to. Take care. Angad smiled and walked outside with the note, and tucked it away in a drawer. He opened his closet and found a hanger with his cloths on the door, and another note. He took the hanger and the note and read it. Your cloths, I don't want you yelling throughout the whole house and disturbing Shahid and Anjali. Your other things are in the top drawer of your study table. Angad walked into the bathroom and took a shower.

Thirty minutes later, he came out dressed in a black sweatshirt and jeans. He combed his hair and then opened his top drawer and took his watch and cell phone out. And saw, 'UNREAD MESSAGE' flashing. He opened it and read. Take your yellow tablets with juice, on an empty stomach. Angad couldn't believe it. How could Kripa have left every instruction.

He walked into the kitchen and went to the refrigerator, and found yet another note, Your juice is in the glass already, and your medicine is in the left pocket of your jeans. Angad reached his pocket and found it. At this point wondered, how will he ever do without Kripa. It was almost like he was the robot and she had the control. He took the glass out with another note attached to it. He had his medicine and then read it. Now if you don't mind make your self a toast, and please NO COTTAGE CHEESE, only butter, that to the one in the white container unsalted, and low cholesterol. Have green tea, please no coffee. Angad sighed, and decided to call Kripa.

Kripa was sitting in Angad's office in his cabin working on his latest project when the her phone rang. "Hello."

"Hello, Mrs. Khanna, how are you this fine morning?" Kripa put her pen down and leaned back into her chair as she recognized Angad's words.

"Yes, Mr. Khanna? How can I help you?"

"Nothing much, I thought why don't ask the lady who cares for me so much, how she is doing this fine morning." Angad leaned back and at this point looked out the window. It was fine sunny morning. Just perfect.

"I'm great, how is you?"

"Good, to have you around, no one would be bad." Kripa smiled as Angad spoke. She picked up her pen and played it around her fingers and Angad continued, "Thanks Kripa. But you didn't need to do all that. There was really no need to put your self through all that trouble."

"If I hadn't done that, you would have called me about a few million times by now."

"Um… that's true." They both laughed now. "Kripa."

"Yes?"

"Where are you?"

"At your office."

"Can I come over?"

"No."

"Why?"

"Because, I don't want you disturbing me. And, moreover, you should be taking rest."

"I'm coming, bye."

"Angad you-" *Click* That's all Kripa heard. She put the phone down and smiled, "Pagal," and went back to work.

About an hour later there was a knock on the door. Kripa knew this was Angad. "Come in." She called. The door slowly opened, and stood before Kripa, Prithvi. Kripa's smile suddenly disappeared. "Hi, Prithvi." She spoke slowly as she stood up.

"May I know why suddenly the smile disappeared?" Angad approached Kripa, Kripa put her hand out and shook hands with him. Just like professionals.

"I wasn't expecting you, I was actually expecting someone else." Kripa spoke as she sat down straitening her posture. "Anyways, forget all that, what brings you here?"

"Oh! I actually had to discuss something with Angad, but- where is he?"

"He is at home, he isn't exactly feeling to well."

"Oh, bad to know. I hope he feels better."

"Thanks, what brings you here again? I'm sorry I forgot."

"I never told you." Prithvi answered sadly, they both knew at this point Kripa didn't want him here. "I have a few papers that I need Angad to sing, before I fly today."

"I thought you were going to fly yesterday."

"Yes, I was- but plans changed."

"I see, Anagd actually should be here any moment, you can ask him then. Would you like coffee or tea?"

"Coffee if you don't mind."

"Sure." Kripa got them a cup of coffee and they both continued to talk, and of course engaging into a deep conversation, cracking jokes.

After some time the door opened, and stepped in with a smile. Seeing Kripa and Prithvi enjoying, he frowned sadly. Kripa looked at Angad over Prithvi shoulder and stood up and walked to him, instantly taking his hand and checking for his fever. "Perfectly fine Mr. but you shouldn't have come here."

"Of course I should have. This stupid, idiot, dumb-butt Prithvi is here. If I would have known I would have come here a few hours ago and took you away." Angad thought.

"Angad?" Angad snapped out and looked at Kripa, who was now holding his hand.

"Huh? Oh, I was just… uh… wanted to be with you. That's all." Kripa now caught that Angad was feeling uncomfortable around Prithvi. Or should we say, jealous. Kripa laughed, and to make him feel better kissed his cheek quickly. Angad smiled and went to his chair and sat down. "Hi, Prithvi. What brings you here, as far as I know, you were going to be out of country."

"Yes, I need a few signatures from you first."

"Sure." Angad took the files from him and looked through them, at one point confused. Kripa walked behind him and looked at the computer and then the file in his hand. Now confused herself. "Kripa, I'm lost." Angad stood up and Kripa sat down and browsed through the file in her hand and the documents on the computer. "I don't think this is necessary, because as far as I remember we are not dealing with any Italian fashion companies."

"Ya, I think so too. Delete them." Kripa looked through confused how to completely delete the file. Angad leaned in behind her, and put one arm around her. His hand reached on top of her hand and he moved the mouse. Kripa looked at Angad, wanting to take her hand back. Prithvi for the first time noticed Kripa was wearing sindoor, deep into her hair, but from the side one could tell. Prithvi knew Kripa and Angad didn't share an actual relationship. But the way Kripa looked at Angad, made Prithvi feel jealous, unhappy, wanting to be out of there. He turned his chair wiping a tear from his eye.

Angad felt Kripa's stare and looked at her as he hit 'delete' on the keyboard. Kripa slowly stood up and Angad also stood up straight. Prithvi excused himself and left the room. Kripa and Angad heard the door shut. Angad leaned in closer to Kripa, to where they could hear each other breath. "Kripa," He said.

Kripa blinked, dryly, and out of breath said, "Y-y-ya."

Angad looked deeper into her eyes, and leaned closer, "You look-"

"I look?" She whispered.

"You look…"

"I look…"

"You look, horrible, in this outfit." Kripa moved back, and hit Angad's arm as he laughed.

"I really do hate you Angad." She sat down, and frowned crossing her arms in front of her. Angad smiled seeing her frown like a girl.

Suddenly Angad said, "Ouch!" Kripa quickly stood up and looked at a grinning Angad.

"Angad, your really too much."

Angad smiled wider. Kripa was about to stand up again when Angad held her arm. "Kripa, you look beautiful!" He said eyeing her. Kripa smiled.

"You don't look bad your self." She grinned, as she looked at Angad. Angad laughed, along with Kripa. "Did you have breakfast?"

"No." He said picking up Kripa's coffee.

"Why not?"

"I don't know." Kripa's phone rang and she was called outside. She walked to the door and walked out. Anagd looked at the cup in his hand, full, and still hot, yet with Kripa's lipstick marked on it. He matched his lips atop the lipstick mark and sat down having the coffee. Kripa looked at him through glass window and smiled.

"I know he loves me." She told her self. "Well, why wouldn't he." Smiling she left.

Pyaar Ka Pal: Part 43

Three days later, Angad sat in his room after dinner, on his laptop. Kripa peaked at his laptop. The last thing she remember reading was, "I LOVE YOU NEHA!" in large letter. The words scared her. Who was Neha? And why was Angad mailing her the only four words, I love you Neha. In bold, red, capital letter, red. With a picture of flower next to it, that to roses, ROSES! This scared Kripa. For a second she thought Angad loved who ever this Neha was. Did he? I love you… Neha, Kripa thought again. Maybe she was just a close friend, Kripa finally thought. But then again, I LOVE YOU NEHA? What did that mean?

Ignoring this fact she sat down beside him on the bed. "Angad, are you doing anything to important."

"No!" He shut his laptop and sat facing Kripa, "Um.. Just sending a mail confirming something."

"What?"

"Oh, it was just a FBI task, don't worry about it!"

"What?" Kripa thought, "An FBI task, huh. You're a lire Angad." Angad had just lied right out to Kripa's face. Not feeling at all guilty, yet so confident. "Ok." Kripa said. "I'm going to go to bed." She went to the sofa and lay down, looking at Angad.

"Kripa, you know, you don't have to sleep on the sofa." Angad said.

"Why?"

"I don't want you having a hurt back, as I will have to take care of you. How about you sleep on the bed."

"And I don't want you to have a hurt back, so how about you stay on the bed."

"How about you both sleep on the bed?" Kripa and Angad looked at the door and saw a smiling Shahid stand there.

"Hello Shahid, so happy to see you." Kripa said sarcastically.

"Hi Kripa, Angad." Angad smiled.

"What are you doing here Shahid, and don't you know you knock before entering a husband and wife's room? Angad asked.

"No, specially not your guys. I will never find anything thing exciting going on." He sighed, "No drama at all. Before I would find you two at least fighting, now days, no fights, and of course no romance! Your life is boring." Angad and Kripa both threw a pillow on his face.

"Shahid, Shut-up!" They both yelled.

"What? It's true. And you guys are sleeping at nine?" Kripa then realized it was quite early. "Anjali is sleeping as well, Kripa will you go for a walk with me?"

"Sure." Kripa said jumping beside Shahid.

"Ah! Kripa your going to leave your darling, 'husband' here all alone, and that to for this freak?" Now both Kripa and Shahid picked up the pillows and threw them on Angad. And Angad threw one back to Shahid.

"Well, my dear 'husband' Shahid is much more interesting than you are! In fact I regret marrying you now, only if Shahid had proposed to me before you did."

"Ah!" Angad exclaimed, now Shahid and Angad throwing a pillow at her.

"What? I was siding you Shahid."

"Well, sorry to say but I don't think any one but Angad can handle you!" Angad walked to Shahid and they exchanged high-fives, laughing. Kripa wined stomping her feet on the floor like a little kid, calling Angad's name. Angad laughing put one arm around her, and then stopped laughing.

"Shahid, don't be making fun of her, she is after all my wife, who only I can handle." Shahid and Angad laughed again as Kripa walked out the room madly. "Now, go behind her!" Shahid said pushing him away. Angad ran out and caught up with Kripa outside. He took her hand and pulled her closer.

"What is it Angad?" She said.

"I was just kidding."

"Ok, ab choro mujhko."

"Nahie choro ga," he only pulled her closer on the cool, breezy night. Kripa stood there smiling at him.

"Angad, think-"

"I do that all the time unlike you."

"Angad!" She wined again.

"Ok, tell me."

"No I was just thinking that you would make a cute flirt!"

"Really!"

"Uh-huh! Now let me go."

"No."

"Please." She begged.

"Ok!" He let her go and moved back a few steps.

"Wow, now that was easy. Maybe you wouldn't make such a great flirt!" She said disappointed.

Angad looked at Kripa and smiled, before he could get her again Kripa ran around the garden, with Angad behind her. Shahid stood in the window and smiled to himself. He was happy for them, happy, that they were happy.

Kripa suddenly felt into someone, and then when she opened her eyes she found Prithvi under her. Angad stopped, and Kripa stood up, and looked at her scraped arm, and then looked at Prithvi and said sorry.

"It's ok, I hope your not hurt." Prithvi was about to touch Kripa's arm when Angad put his arm around her.

"Are you ok Kripa. I'm sorry."

"It's ok Angad." Prithvi felt mad now, every time he was with Kripa, Angad had to come between them. "Prithvi, what are you doing here?"

"I needed to know when our dead line was."

"You, could have called anyone for that." Kripa said madly.

"Sorry!"

"The deadline is three months." Angad answered, "Plus why haven't you left?"

"My flight is in two hours."

"See, you then." Angad turned and left angry. Kripa turned back to Prithvi. "I'm sorry Prithvi, Angad is just in a…. cranky mood."

"It's ok."

"Um… Prithvi- don't mind but Angad doesn't really like you around."

"I know, it's all over him when I'm near you. And its obvious, I was once engaged to you. And he's your husband, he loves you. He would be."

"He loves me?"

"Can't you tell. If he didn't he wouldn't mind you being around me."

"Ya."

"Ok, I'll leave now. Bye."

"Bye."

Prithvi left and Kripa thought to herself, If he loved me he would have told me. He simply… cares for me. Kripa went back when she saw Shahid. "You ready for the walk?"

"Sure."

Shahid and Kripa walked down the empty road. "Kripa, two months." Shahid said. Kripa was quit and they kept walking. "Kripa, have you figured out if he loves you?"

"No, but Angad know I love him." Kripa told him.

"What? I mean, what did he say?"

"He can't give me what I'm asking for." Kripa said sadly.

"And what did you ask for?"

"I asked him for the right ever wife wants over her husband. I asked him to accept me, and he refused."

"Now what?"

"Don't know. And I think he loves someone else."

"What?" Shahid stopped now.

"Ya, I saw him e-mailing some Neha, saying I love you Neha. And…"

"Neha?"

"Neha!"

"I don't know any Neha, not from College either." Kripa sighed.

"He doesn't love me, he loves Neha!"

"Aw! Don't say that, give it some more time."

"I guess."

Suddenly, it started raining and Shahid and Kripa ran back.

Angad was standing at the window when Kripa came running in drying her hair. The room was dark, and one candle was lit, glowing thought the room. The wind was speeding, it closed the door. Angad turned to see Kripa stand there, looking at Angad, passionately. Angad started walking to Kripa, almost as if Kripa was magnet and he was metal, Kripa was attracting him towards her. Kripa confused, moved backwards until she hit the door, and closed it shut, with a click. Kripa looked behind her and then at Angad. He was close enough she could see each aspect of his eye clearly. Kripa left his hands slowly around her pulling her closer. As Angad's lips neared Kripa's neck Kripa closed her eyes. Angad's lips brushed Kripa's cheeks and then she felt his hot breath near her ear, "You look beautiful in the candle light." Kripa lowered her eyes and blushed. Angad kissed Kripa's ear, and then her cheek. As his lips moved closer to Kripa's, everything broke and both Kripa and Angad realized they had been dreaming. The room was lit with a candle, it was raining, but Angad wasn't close to Kripa. Now Kripa went and stood next to him putting her hand out in the rain. Angad watched her as Kripa began to speak.

"Angad, isn't it easy to say that, 'I love you but, I don't ask you to love me back,' isn't it so fake. How can you love someone and not want that person to love you back." Angad heard Kripa drift away, "How can I love you and not ask you to love me back, Angad? How can I love you Angad?" Soon tears were spilling from her eyes. Angad knew Kripa was not thinking before she was talking. "Angad, why don't you love me? What do I lack that makes you not love me?" Now Angad took Kripa by her shoulders and looked into her eyes.

"Kripa, tum aapna hoosh main nahie ho?"

"Your right, main aapna hoosh main nahie ho. Lakin Angad tum batao, if you loved someone and she didn't love you, how would you feel? How would you feel if you loved me and I didn't love you. How would you feel if I rejected you."

Angad pulled her closer, "I love you Kripa. Who said I don't love you." He kissed her forehead, and embraced her. "I love you because you're my best friend." Kripa pulled apart and pushed Angad away.

"Angad, I'm sick of being your friend. Your so-called, 'best friend.' Angad, I don't want to be your best friend. I-"

Angad took Kripa's arm and held her close. For the first time he looked deep into her eyes, deep enough to see the intense love. Suddenly all his anger vanished and he pulled her closer and hugged her tightly. "I'm sorry Kripa." But Kripa didn't respond. He pulled her away and found her asleep. He knew exactly what had happened now, she was once again taking support from her sleeping pills. Angad picked Kripa up and put her down on the bed. Angad feared Kripa is going back into depression, last time she had taken sleeping pills were when her parents died, and then when Angad had left her. At that time luckily Shahid was there and he had stopped her. When Angad came to know about this he was quite shocked.

Angad stood up, but found his hand in Kripa's. He bend down again and kissed her. "What can I do to make her happy?" He asked himself. As he sat beside Kripa thinking his phone buzzed. He received a message, he read it and smiled. "Got it!" He looked at a sad Kripa. "I promise you smiles Kripa." He kissed her cheek once again and stood up.

One week later, around noon, Kripa is sitting on her bad, dark circles under her eyes, sad. She slowly sunk into her bed and pulled the covers over head. Angad came into the room, with little Kris in his arms. He kissed his cheeks and put him on the bed, and left the room.

Kris was a little over one year and five months old. Kripa and Angad had completed around nine months of their marriage now and Kripa was really ready to give up at this point. After reading another mail Angad had sent to this "Neha," Kripa was even more heart broken. She told Shahid about this, and now he said that maybe they did know a Neha, it could be possible. Kripa only sunk deeper after hearing this. Angad didn't know the reason of her depression, he thought it's because she loves him and he's not ready to give the love back.

Little Kris walked on the bed and then sat next to Kripa. He pulled the covers off her face and played with her nose. Kripa opened her eyes slowly, and saw Kris sitting there smiling. Kripa was in utter shock. Kris sat on the bed clapping his little hands as he saw Kripa slowly sit up. Kripa picked Kris up and kissed her, and then hugged him tightly, and cried for sometime. Angad stood at the door quietly watching, and crying himself. Anjali stood behind him and put her hand on his shoulder.

Kripa kissed Kris's forehead and both his cheeks. Kris kissed her back, and Kripa cried even more. Kris sat there for a few seconds and then he leaned closer to Kripa and wiped her tears with his tiny hands. "I love you beta!" Kripa said hugging him again, "I really love you!"

"Mama!" Kris said in Kripa's ear. This only added sugar to Kripa's joy. Angad was bawling now.

"Angad, stop crying and go handle her!" Anjali told him wiping her own tears. Angad wiped his tears and smiled and walked into the room. Kripa saw him and smiled. She right away knew this was Angad's plan. Angad sat down beside Kripa and put his arm around her. Kris jumped out of Kripa's arms and sat on the bed playing with the sheets.

"Thanks Angad."

"Your welcome, now promise me."

"What?"

"You will never take sleeping pills," he put his hand out in front of Kripa, "Promise?"

Kripa held his hand and kissed it, "Promise." Angad smiled at Kripa and kissed her forehead. "You're the best Angad!" She said as she picked Kris up one more time. Kripa started playing with Kris again. Angad stood up and backed away, happy to see her so happy.

Dadi and Bua were back as well. It was Shahid's birthday in a week and they were going to stay until then. Kripa had spent the whole day with Kris. Dadi had decided to get Anjali and Shahid engaged the day of his birthday and therefore the whole house was busy in preparations, everyone but Kripa. Angad did most of the initiations, and this way he got to stay with Kripa and Kris instead of running around the whole time. For Kripa, Kris was the world right now. She had forgotten everything; eating, sleeping, everything. She was so happy to have Kris. Seeing the new light on Kripa's face he knew exactly what she had been trying to tell her when she said she wanted kids.

Kripa noticed Angad sitting and watching her. She picked Kris up and went to the sofa and sat down beside him. No one was home. Anjali and Shahid were gone to book a hall, while Dadi and Bua were gone to finalize a few other things.

"Aaisa kya dek raha ho?" Kripa asked him, as she sat Kris down between both of them.

'I'm happy to see you so happy!" He said dialing another number, when Kripa took the phone from him.

"Your concerned about anything but your stupid phone, or your stupid computer."

"Kripa- ok fine, tell me. What do you want?"

"Your attention." Kripa looked down at Kris who was falling on her, his eyes closing slowly. Kripa picked him up and took her to her room and put her to sleep. When she came back Angad was sending someone a SMS. Kripa snatched the phone again. "Your attention, remember."

"Of course, tell me."

Kripa hesitated, "Remember you told me to take up an assignment."

"Yes." Angad said just as slowly.

"Well…"

"Well?" He asked.

"I've taken up an assignment, it's not confirmed yet but it will be soon."

"That's good! When are you leaving?" Angad asked quite, disappointed. Kripa caught the disappointment in his voice and smiled to herself. She cuddled up against up and hugged him, disappointed when Angad didn't respond.

"If it gets confirmed I will leave three months, most likely the day of our first anniversary." This broke Angad's heart even more. Now they both realized they had been together for almost a year. How quickly time had passed by.

"For how long?" Angad asked her, scared for her answer.

"One years at the least." Kripa answered slowly, carefully, with tears running from her own eyes, spreading on Angad's shirt. Now Angad put his arms around her as well. Kripa couldn't help but break down yet again. "I hope I've made you happy Angad." Kripa said after sometime wiping her eyes. Angad didn't respond nor did he look at Kripa. Kripa left the room, Angad stood up and went to the terrace.

It was a cool October night. It would be snowing soon, Christmas lights would be around London, making the place look like heaven. In the silent night Kripa's words echoed in Angad's head. "If it gets confirmed I will leave three months, most likely the day of our first anniversary. For one year." Angad closed his eyes as tears of pain ran from his eyes. "Kripa I wanted you to be away because I wanted you to be away from me. Because, I knew you would have been happy away from me. But at this point I know that neither one of us will be happy away from each other. I know it, if we could we wouldn't have cried holding each other. I can't loose you again Kripa, I can't." He wiped his tears and smiled, "We will celebrate our first anniversary in three months, and on that day I will start my new life with you. Just three more months. I will make you mine, and I won't let you leave."

By the time Angad went back down stairs everyone was back home, sitting on the dinning table having dinner. Angad sat down with everyone and then noticed Kripa wasn't there. "Dadi, Kripa kaha hai?"

"She doesn't want to eat." Shahid answered.

"Oh!" Angad slowly stood up.

"Where are you going?" Shahid asked, "Let me guess tumko bhi bhook nahie hai, right?" Anjali tried not to laugh. Angad rolled his eyes and left.

Kripa was working on the computer when Angad came in. She had changed into sweats. She was wearing glasses and her hair were tied up with a pencil. She wore little diamond studs, with a few strands of her hair hanging on her face. Suddenly she looked… gorgeous to Angad. So simple yet beautiful. "Kripa," he called. Kripa looked at Angad and he clicked a picture on his phone. "Perfect." Kripa smiled tilting her head slightly. "Your silly Angad."

Kris was sleeping while sucking on his thumb. Everything was so serene. When Angad was coming to the room he thought that Kripa would be angry at him, but guess not. She was in a quite happy mood. "Why aren't you having dinner?" Angad asked sitting on the bed picking up a magazine.

"I have to finish this. Did you eat?" Angad looked at Kripa. She was concentrating on the screen.

"Yes." He said.

Kripa stopped typing and turned smiling, "Learn to lie Angad." She said smiling.

"Who said I'm lying?"

"It's clear."

"I'm not lying Kripa, you just think I am."

"Ok, as you wish!" She started typing again while Angad went and changed into his night suit. When he came back he sat down on the sofa, across Kripa and started checking his mail.

"Oh my god!" He said almost jumping put of his seat. "This is too good!" Kripa took her glasses off and looked at him. "Kya hua?"

"Neha is coming to London! Wow!" Kripa almost fell from her chair as she heard 'Neha.' Everything linked to this Neha came back to her mind.

"Who is this Neha?" She asked angry.

"A college friend."

"Oh. When is she coming?"

"The day Shahid and Anjali are getting engaged."

"That's great!" Kripa said going back to her work. Angad sighed happy.

Pyaar Ka Pal: Part 44

A large hall was decorated with red, black, and gold traditional Indian art. Lights and lamps glittered everywhere. Kids ran around the place with many other people rushing to do last minutes things. It was a gorgeous sight.

Shahid was standing in front of the mirror buttoning the last button of his sherwani when Angad came in and handed him the scarf to go with it. Shahid wore a sexy, maroon color 'A' line open front Sherwani having embroidery on Front 2 Panels, Full Front & Full Sleeves using Resham & Zardozi work. Plain spunsilk Kurta inside, looking more dashing than ever before. Angad on the other hand was wearing a cream color open front Sherwani embroidery on Neck, Front 2 Panels & Sleeves using Zardozi & Resham work. For sure looking very different. "Shahid my man, you look… nervous!"

"Haha! Very funny. Of course I'm nervous, I'm getting engaged."

"You had to someday, plus you'll be happy. And it's not a big deal."

"I hope!" Angad laughed seeing his friend so nervous.

Kripa on the other hand was getting Anjali ready who was wearing, a shaded georgette in warm hues lehenga with antiq zardosi and kundan work combined with banarasi border hemline worn with kurti and rich dupatta in shaded georgette with banarasi border. To go along with her bronze embroidery she wore a matching set. Anjali was nervous as well, but not as much as Shahid. She was happy that she was finally getting engaged.

About thirty minutes later Kripa took Anjali and Angad took Shahid to the main event. Shahid and Anjali stood beside each other and exchanged rings fairly quickly. Kripa stood beside Angad clapping for the couple, yet lost in her own world. Then she looked down at her own hand and the ring she was wearing. Angad looked at her from the corner of his eye. He made himself a mental note to gift Kripa a ring for their anniversary.

Shahid cut the cake and the all fed each other. Shahid and Anjali shared a dance alone. Dadi told Angad and Kripa to dance as well. But before Kripa could have placed her hand in Angad's someone else's, elegant hand was in his hand. Kripa looked over and saw a tall, beautiful girl standing in front of her. She was wearing a white sari with white diamond, huge, earring. The neck line of her blouse was deep, but just fine to where it didn't look vulgar, and she wasn't wearing any thing in her neck. Which for some reason just made her look just more angelic. She had a chocolate brown eye color with a fair complexion. Her brunet hair hung down her back with soft curls, allowing her to look just more graceful. She hugged Angad, and stood next to her. Kripa felt extremely jealous, not only because she was standing where Kripa was meant to be, but she looked even more beautiful next to Angad. Mainly because there outfits matched. As if it was planned this way.

"Kripa, meet Neha. And Neha meet Kripa my best friend-"

"And his wife." Kripa said as she smiled at her.

"Your really beautiful Kripa." Neha said smiling, "Angad is lucky to have you!" Kripa just smiled.

"And you look absolutely charming tonight, Neha." Angad told her. Kripa felt heart broken. Angad hadn't even complimented her and someone else took the praise. Kripa excused herself and went to the wash room. She looked at herself in the mirror. She was wearing a light blue and peach shaded sari. After putting a fake smile on she went outside, she was shocked when she saw Angad dancing with Neha. She saw Prithvi at the door and walked to him as he was looking for someone to greet him.

"Prithvi."

"Hey Kripa."

"Hi Prithvi." They stood together for some time. Kripa watched Angad dance with Neha. It hurt her eyes when she saw them so close. She looked away when she saw Neha come her way with Angad's hand in hers. She stood in front of Kripa and let go of Angad's hand. Then she took Kripa's hand and gave it to Angad.

"Now that your wife is here, dance with her, I'm going to go see the bride and groom to-be." She smiled and left. Kripa took a step closer to Angad, and watched Neha glide down the hall while Prithvi and Angad said their usual hellos. Prithvi excused himself soon as well and Kripa and Angad were left alone. Kripa looked around still holding Angad's hand. She saw Dadi and Bua sitting with Kris, and decided to go there. When she had taken a few steps she realized Angad was still holding her hand. She let go of his hand but Angad pulled her back. Kripa stood against Angad.

"Mrs. Khanna, I saw your envied eyes when I was with Neha. And now that you have a chance won't you like to have a dance with me?" Angad kissed her cheek, and she turned and looked at him. Angad put his hand other and they both made it to the dance floor. Kripa put both arms around Angad's neck while he held her close ho him. "By the way, where are our third couple?"

"Who?" Kripa asked.

"Josh and Aaliya?"

"They should be getting here. And why are they our third, whose the second couple?" Kripa asked.

"Shahid and Anjali."

"Then whose the first couple?"

Angad came closer to Kripa, "We are." Kripa instantly looked away, blushing. "Has anyone told you, you look beautiful blushing?"

Kripa looked at the naught Angad, "Actually, yes."

"Who?"

"That," Kripa looked around, "You just did." She smiled. Angad smiled back and they continued to dance.

"One more thing."

"Now what Angad."

"Neha was right, you are beautiful, and I'm lucky to have you."

Kripa smiled softly now, "Thanks Angad. But being so nice doesn't suit you!"

"What? I was actually fishing for compliments." Angad said twirling her around once.

"In case Mr. Khanna," Kripa pulled him closer, "You look really hideous." And she smiled politely.

"Nice to know, I feel the same way about you! I was just trying to make you feel better." Kripa pushed him away and left the dance floor.

Angad smiled, "I love her!" he said running one hand thought his hair. Kripa stood with Shahid and Anjali now.

"Kripa was I dreaming?" Shahid asked looking at Kripa and then Angad.

"I think we all are." Kripa said. Suddenly everything went black. The room went chaos, Kripa was about to move when someone held her hand. And a lighter was lit in front of her. The lights came back; Kripa and Angad were standing face to face. Neha took Angad's side again and handed him a mike.

"How about a lovely song from the lovely man, for the lovely couple!" Neha asked. Angad smiled looking at Kripa.

"If someone supports me." He said looking at Kripa.

"Never." Kripa whispered to him, she turned and left. Angad smiled and sat behind the piano playing. Kripa stopped and looked at him.

Angad walked behind Kripa, as he sang.

Ho meri soni, meri tamanna

Jhoot nahin hai mera pyaar

Deewane se ho gayi galti

Jaane do yaar

I love you

I love you

He held her hand and Kripa turned, smiled and then walked away.

Meri soni, meri tamanna

Jhoot nahin hai mera pyaar

Deewane se ho gayi galti

Jaane do yaar

I love you

I love you

Kripa walked to the other side of the room, and stood behind a column smiling to herself. She turned around and saw Angad standing there holding his ears. Kripa just walked away. She walked down then hall and behind more marble columns, when Angad pulled her back. He was pinned to the column as he held Kripa close to him.

Aake meri aankhon mein tum dekho

Inn mein har ek ada tumhari hai

Kehne ko yeh dil hai mera lekin

Dhadkan mein sadaa tumhari hai

Tumse hai chain mera

Tumse hai mera karaar

He held his ears again, but Kripa looked away. Expecting he would pamper her more, but Angad left her and walked away. Kripa shocked, stood there and then decided it was her turn to ask him now.

La la lala

I love you

I love you

As Angad walked fast in front of her she walked behind him singing.

Mere sona, meri tamanna

Jhoot nahin hai mera pyaar

Deewani se ho gayi galti

Jaane do yaar

I love you

I love you

Angad smiled to himself as she sang. Angad turned but didn't see Kripa there. He looked at a giggling Anjali who pointed at a different direction. Angad walked up the stairs where he found Kripa standing in a semi-dark area. He turned to leave again when Kripa held his hand and pulled him closer. She held his face, and hugged him tightly.

Tadap ke yun bahut na tadapao

Accha baba chalo hum hi haare

Tumne agar dil se mujhe chaaha

Tum bhi to ho sanam mujhe pyaare

Mere kareeb aao zara soon bhi lo

Dil ki pukaar

La la lala

I love you

I love you

Angad smiled as they both made their way down. Angad stood next to Shahid who now had to sing to his wife to be. So both Angad and Shahid sung dancing with their lady loves.

Meri soni, meri tamanna

Jhoot nahin hai mera pyaar

Deewane se ho gayi galti

Jaane do yaar

Kripa and Anjlai: La la lala I love you

Angad and Shahid: I love you

Kripa and Anjali: La la lala

All: I love you

Pyaar Ka Pal: Part 45

Kripa was reading while Angad was watching her read. Now she looked at him and put her book away, "What's wrong? Do you need something?"

"No." He replied.

"Then? Why are you starring at me like a manic."

"I was counting how many wrinkles you have on your face."

Kripa threw her book at him now. "Your so mean." She took her book back and started reading again. Now Angad laid down and made him self comfortable, but couldn't. Kripa had his pillow in her lap. Instead of taking it from her he put his head in her lap, on top of the pillow, and closed his eyes. Now Kripa closed her book and put her glasses away. She looked at Angad and then caressed his hair. "Angad."

His eyes still closed, "Hmm."

"What ever you said did you mean it?"

"Ya, I was counting how many wrinkles you had on your face."

"Not that stupid."

"Then?"

"What you said at the party."

"What that your hideous? Yes." Kripa pulled the pillow from under his head now. Angad sat up and looked at her. "Kya hai?"

"Angad, jo tumna gaya kya vo sach tha?"

"Haan."

"Mera liya?"

Angad moved closer to her, "Sach tha, lakin tumahra liya nahie. Kisi aur ka liya." Kripa pushed him away again and laid down saying, "I hate you Angad." Angad watched Kripa sleep, "Kripa."

"Hmm."

"Kuch nahie." Angad laid down beside Kripa, and Kripa turned to look at him.

"Angad."

"Kya?"

"Can I tell you something?"

"What?"

"I'm going to miss you when I leave."

"Aw. My baby, do you need a hug?" Kripa nodded her head as Angad opened his arms. She hugged him tightly after kissing both his cheeks.

"One more thing."

"Ya."

"I love you!"

"Ya, me too!" Kripa soon fell asleep hugging Angad. "I'm not going to let you go any where Kripa. Not anywhere. I want you to sleep in my arms every night and wake up next to me every morning. Not because you need me. But because I need you, because I love you." Angad shut the light and went to sleep himself.

One week later. Kripa and Angad were both shopping for Angad. Kripa had dragged him to the store. She had decided to change his wardrobe completely. "Kripa what's wrong with my style?"

"Nothing, it's just… so old." She turned him to a mirror and stood beside him. "Look, you have a beautiful wife, and you need to match me!"

"Really? I have a beautiful wife, I never knew it!" Kripa hit Angad's arm, and turned around. "Ok baba, sorry. Your very beautiful, just as beautiful as I don't know, any actress you want to compare your self to. But now lets go."

"No. We are going to change your wardrobe. And I mean it."

"I can't win you."

"Good!" Kripa took Angad from American Eagle to Abercrombie and Fitch. She had brought Angad every color from Pink to black, and she had bought him every style of pants. With every style of jackets and sweatshirts. After the casual wear she took him every where from Gucci menswear, Calvin Klein, to Ralph Lauren. She had brought him everything from Blazers to coats. The only thing she hadn't was ties. Kripa simply thought ties didn't look good on him. This time he agreed. Ties didn't look good on him but he wore them to look 'professional.' And at last they both reached home.

Bua had went back and she did take Kris with her. Dadi was at the office, and Shahid and Anjali were also out on a "date." Kripa put all of Angad's clothes away, and took out most of the old once.

Angad and Kripa were having evening tea when the phone rang. Angad went and picked it up. He came back and sat down next to Kripa.

"It was Shahid."

"Neha wants to go out, so we decided either bowling alley or either a pub."

"Cool. Have fun!" Kripa replied.

"What do you mean 'have fun.'

"I'm not going." She said taking his cup away.

"Why?" He followed her to the kitchen.

"Because, I don't feel like it."

"Kripa, I went shopping with you now you have to come with me."

"No, I don't." She said rinsing the cups.

"Why not? If your not going, I'm not either."

"Anagd, tum bauth ziddi ho. We'll go." Kripa left the kitchen after turning the lights off.

A few hours later Angad, Kripa, Shahid, Anjali, Josh, Aaliya, Neha, and Prithvi sat in a bowling alley with a pub. Prithvi was there just to be there The guys were busy bowling while the ladies were just talking.

Kripa sat there stringing her drink, looking at Angad who was in competition with Shahid. He was easy to spot, he was wearing a black shirt with the lettering 'F.B.I' on the back, in red. And to Kripa, at the moment no one could look more sexy that Angad. Any man could stand next to him and loose.

Angad hit another strike as he yelled in happiness. It was Prithvi, Shahid, and Josh, against Angad alone. Kripa really hadn't seen Angad this excited and happy in a long time. And nor had she ever spend this much time with him. Things seemed to be in place, but at the same time Neha was around and this made Kripa insecure. But Neha knew Angad was married to Kripa, she wouldn't try to create a relation with Angad unless Angad wanted to. And, Kripa had faith he wouldn't.

Shahid and Angad stood next to each other and rolled the ball, Shahid hit a strike while Angad had a split. Angad wrinkled his nose and he turned around disappointed and saw Kripa staring at him. She looked away, and smiled at Anjali.

"Someone seems to be… restless." Aaliya is in a naughty tone.

"Aaliya, shut-up will you." Kripa said quite irritated Angad approached them and stood next to Neha.

"Hello ladies, I was wondering if someone could help me."

"With what?" Neha asked.

"I have a split, and I have permission for two more tries. Anyone."

"Sure!" Neha said standing up. Kripa was disappointed and looked at her red drink. Angad looked at her, he had done this purposely.

"Kripa." Aaliya said, as Angad looked at her once more.

"Ya." She replied, still looking at her glass.

"How about a competition between us once more."

Kripa looked at Aaliya now, "What do you mean?"

"Remember when we went bowling, with Shahid, Anjali, Prithvi, and I."

"Ya… and?"

"How about we create two teams as well. Josh and I, and You and…"

"And Prithvi and I!" Kripa said standing up. Now Kripa did this on purpose.

Aaliya went and got Josh and Kripa got Prithvi. Neha tried to get a strike for Angad out of the split but she was not successful.

Before Kripa started the game she walked to Angad's alley, and got a ball and hit a strike for him. She turned and looked at him; "I told you earlier and I'm telling you again, the day you don't my companionship your going to loose."

She left and hit her first strike with Prithvi. "Your right Kripa." Angad said, "I will loose the day I loose you." Angad knew Kripa was disappointed in him. Kripa and Prithvi won the challenge by ten points. Angad spend the time hitting strikes angry, not at Kripa, but at himself. After they were quite tired of the bowling alley they went into the pub. Kripa tried to ignore Angad for most the time. Shahid and Josh stuck with Kripa the their discussing there marriage plans. Yes, after Shahid's and Anjali's engagement Aaliya and Josh had decided that they would marry with Shahid and Anjali. Kripa was happy, while Aaliya and Anjali made plans from there side, Josh and Shahid discussed their plans with Kripa, who was barely listening. Prithvi had left due to some emergency, would be back in some time, and Angad was sitting on a separate table with Neha.

"Angad." Neha said as he put his beer down.

"Yes, Neha."

"Have you ever thought about your Dad?" She asked.

Angad looked at Neha, "Why are you asking. He didn't care for me once when I was missing for nearly three years. Did he once drop by and ask about me in the past months? If he doesn't care for me, why should I care for him?"

"Angad, he doesn't hate you. He's scared to face you."

"Ya right. Actually he should be." Angad said finishing his second beer.

"And for gods sake stop drinking. I hope you have quit your bad habit of smoking."

"I did, for Kripa."

"Well that's nice to know, but right now we are talking about your Dad."

"Well I don't want to talk about him. He has done everything to hurt me and my Mom. I mean he was married to another lady, moreover, he didn't once look back at me or his "other" family once. Not did he only deceive me and my mother but he is ruining another women's life as well." Angad had gulped down one more beer now, but he wasn't intoxicated. And at this point Neha took his mug away from him.

"That's enough Angad." She said looking over at everyone else. "Kripa is not going to be happy if you get drunk."

"She doesn't care, Neha. She hates me right now."

"What?"

"Yes, I've always done something to make her mad. Always." As Angad spoke, he cried, and hugged Neha. Kripa saw this, angry. But more sad than angry that she wasn't there for him and Neha was.

"It's ok. Come on, lets go." They both left the bar and joined everyone else. Shahid and Josh were dancing with Anjali and Aaliya. Angad sat down next to Kripa but didn't look at her. Suddenly the disco went black, and one stop light shone on the D.J. "Ladies and gentlemen, we are going to play the first game of the night. Two spot lights will wander the room, and the two random people will be chosen to dance, with two other random people. Are we ready!" He shouted. Everyone clapped and cheered. The spot light went around the room, the first one stopping on Kripa. It went around again and stood on Neha this time.

"Well! We need our two guys now. The first will be with the first lady and the second one with the second one." The spot light went around the room, and stopped at the door, before the light could move the door opened and stood there Prithvi. "We have our first man!" Kripa was paired with Prithvi, and Angad ended up pairing with Neha. The four made their way to the floor. Kripa stood in front of Prithvi, yet looked at Angad. Angad stood in front of Neha, yet looked at Kripa.

The music filled the room and they dance, with everyone cheering. Eventually, partners were changed. Neha went with Prithvi and Kripa was with Anagd. They danced until partners were switched again. When the sequence ended, Angad had won with Neha. Kripa rushed to the bar, and asked for a cold drink. But instead of picking up her coke she picked up someone's rum, and drank it down. She got more and more jealous as she saw Anagd and Neha together. And soon she had picked up another shot glass and drank it. Angad noticed Kripa and ran to her. By the time he reached she had drank a almost four shots.

When Angad turned her around she was completely intoxicated. She smiled at him, her eyes half closed. "Congrats Angad!" She said holding his hand out. "You won with Neha. You don't need me with you to win. I was wrong." She turned and picked up another glass but Angad took it away from her.

"Stop it Kripa."

"No!" She screamed. Now everyone turned and looked at them. "No!" She said a little softer. "I hate you Anagd Khanna! I hate you!" She pointed at him, and poked his arm. "I hate you!" She started crying now. Angad felt terrible seeing Kripa like this.

"Kripa, stop it." He whispered.

"I won't!" She yelled. "I won't." Angad grabbed her hand and dragged her out of the place. Like expected it was snowing out side, softly. Kripa pulled her hand back, in the empty parking lot. "Leave me Angad." She yelled. Angad rolled his eyes and walked back to her.

"Kripa, let's go home."

"No!" She said in a drunk voice. She took a step closer to Angad now and held him by his shirt. "I love you Angad!" She whispered to him. Angad looked into her eyes, she was drunk, but the softness of her eyes was still there. In her drunk state she was just saying and doing what she had been storing in herself for weeks now.

Kripa put both her arms around Angad's neck and kissed him. "I love you, but you don't love me, do you?" She ran her fingure up and down Angad's jacket buttons, "You hate me!" Angad nodded his head now. "You know Anagd, I have a song in my mind that matches me right now!"

"What?"

"Pyaar main dil pa maar de goli, lela meri jaan. Jaana jaha, mera ka bhi tera peeacha chooro na." She laughed as she put her head on Angad's chest. "I really love you Anagd." And she started crying now, "But you hate me. You hate me, you hate me!" She pulled away and tried to walk but Angad quickly caught her.

"Kripa, ghar chala." Kripa nodded as she put her arms around Angad again.

"Can you pick me up?" She said giggling. Angad smiled and picked her up in his arms.

"Lets go home my princess!"

"Lets go home my price!" She said as she kissed his neck.

Angad enterted the house as quite as possible. He took Kripa to the room and locked the door behind him. Kripa tried to walk, and then looked at the floor. "Aye, Angad. Why does the floor look like it's spiliting in half?" She rubbed her eyes and then looked again, "Ah, it is!"

Angad had a 'what the hell,' look on his face. Kripa looked down again and laughed, "This is too cool!" Angad laughed now. Kripa turned around and walked back to Angad. Once again she put her arms around his neck. And then started crying.

"Kripa? Why are you crying?" He asked worried.

"Because you hate me."

Angad hugged her, "No I don't." Kripa pulled away and smiled now.

"You don't?" She asked.

"No."

"Then you must love me?" Angad nodded his head. "Yippee," she yelled like a little kid now.

"Come on, lets go to sleep."

"No! I like it when you call me Princess!" She laughed. Angad picked her up and carried her to the bed, and put her down, and but the blanket over her face. But she pulled it back. "I can't sleep."

"Why not?"

"You didn't kiss your princess good night." She giggled again, "But I thought the princess woke up when the prince kissed her?" She laid in front of Anagd looking confused as she spoke, then she held his jacket and pulled him down. "I don't care. I want my kiss anyways." Angad looked at her, and her innocence. He kissed his forehead, and she put her finger on her cheek. Angad kissed her once more, then smiling she put her finger on her other cheek and Angad kissed her again. "Thank you my prince." Angad got up to leave when Kripa grabbed his hand and pulled her down. "Angad tum mujhko kabhi choor kar nahie jaoga na?" There was a sudden seriousness in her voice now.

"Never." Angad said.

"Even if I ever get drunk again?"

"Not even then."

"Do you love me?"

"I love you a lot Kripa. You're the best thing that ever happened to me. Now good night."

"No! One last thing."

"What is it?" He said caressing her forehead. There was a naughtiness in Kripa's eyes. All of a sudden there was a different glitter in her eyes, and a naught smiled spread her lips and she put her finger on Angad's lips. Angad knew this wasn't right as she wasn't in her senses. Angad stayed still and she pulled him down.

"You said you loved me."

"I do." Angad said kissing her forehead, "Go to sleep."

"No! I want my last kiss!" She said looking at him.

"Kripa, your really drunk." He said looking away.

"No I'm not. I love you." She turned his face again. "Hey Angad, I have one more song in mind right now."

"Which one." Angad had actually started to enjoy this now.

"Dilbar mere kab tak mujhe, aise hii tadapaaoge main aag dil men lagaa duungi vo, ke pal mein pighal jaaoge ek din aayegaa, pyaar ho jaayegaa." She laughed again.

"Your mad Kripa." He said, caressing her cheek.

"Thank you!" She said proud. "Now my kiss!"

"You know, ab mujhko ek gaana yaad aa raha hai."

Kripa laughed again, "Kuan Sa?"

"Aapka aakhon main kuch mehakaa hua sa raaz hai, aapsa bhi koobsurat aapka andas hai!" Kripa laughed as Angad sung. Angad bend down and kissed Kripa's lips. And she hugged him.

After she feel asleep, mumbling things, Angad kissed her softly again.