QSS thread # 3 part 149 posted on pg149on 6/1/11

Thread # 3 QUE SERA SERA



Link to thread # 1
https://www.indiaforums.com/forum/fan-fictions/1305243/que-sera-sera-ii-part-47-posted-on-pg149-14-5-10


Link to thread # 2
https:////www.india-forums.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1395585

Index to thread # 3

Part 100 - pg 1, Part 101 - pg 4, Part 102 - pg 7
Part 103 - pg 11, Part 104 - pg 14, Part 105 - pg 18
Part 106 - pg 21, Part 107 - pg 23, Part 108 - pg 26
Part 109 - pg 29, Part 110 - pg 32, part 111 - pg 36
Part 112 - pg 40, Part 113 - pg 43, Part 114 - pg 46
Part 115 - pg 50, Part 116 - pg 52, Part 117 - pg 54
Part 118 - pg 57, Part 119 - pg 60, part 120 - pg 63
Part 121 - pg 66, Part 122 - pg 69, Part 123 - pg 72
Part 124 _ pg 74, Part 125 - pg 78, Part 126 - Pg 81
Part 127 - pg 85, Part 128 - pg 87, Part 129 - Pg 89
Part 130 - pg 92, Part 131 - pg 95, Part 132 - pg 98
Part 133 - pg101, Part 134 - pg103, Part 135 - pg 105
Part 136 - pg108, Part 137 - pg111, Part 138 - pg 113 Part 139 -pg 116, Part 140 -pg 120, Part 141 - pg 123,
Part 142 - pg126, Part 143 - pg129, Part 144 - pg 133,
Part 145 - pg136, part 146 - pg139, Part 147 - pg 142,
Part 148 - pg145, Part 149 - pg149,

Link to thread # 4

https://www.indiaforums.com/forum/fan-fictions/1586879/qss-thread-4-part-194-on-pg-150-on-26-5-11

Link to thread # 5
https://www.indiaforums.com/forum/fan-fictions/1692941/qss-thread-5-qssii-imp-note-on-pg-30-on-13-7-11

Hi friends,

I tell you this is just unbelievable. QSS II has completed a cetury and that too in 223 days. That's very good scoring rate I think. And as I always say, all this has been possible only because of your encouragement. Please do keep commenting and motivating me. Thanks a lot for all you support and love.

EId Mubarak to all the friends who are clebrating Ramzan eid today.

I also take this oppurtunity to wish all of you HAPPY GANESHOTSAV in advance. May the Sukhkarta Dukhharta fill everyone's life with joy, good health and peace. May he remove all the obstacles from your paths and fulfill all your aspirations.

Love, shardha

Part 100

After dinner, Riddhima retired to her room to feed Ani. She wondered where Armaan was. Perhaps he was reading a story to Akshat. But when Akshat came after a few minutes to tell her that he was all set to go to school tomorrow, she asked him about his dad's whereabouts but he had no idea. He bid Riddhima goodnight and went to bed. Ani slept off after his feed. Riddhima put him in his cot and went to look for Armaan.

Not finding him anywhere in the house she asked akka and Kaka. Akka said she had seen him go upstairs. Riddhima was surprised because they rarely used the upstairs room. As she mounted the steps she was bit appprehensive. And when went up, she heard Armaan talking angrily over the the phone, "that means you people only say that I'm a part of the family, but haven't actually accepted me as yet. Yes, if you did, you wouldn't have hidden such an important matter from me.

''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''..

A: If all of you can go through that tension why not us? Whether it's good news or bad, a family goes through it together. By keeping us out of it you have proved that you don't consider us a part of the Gupta family.

''''''''''''''''''''''''''''

A: No problem ab aagey se hum bhi aisey hi karenge. We'll only convey the good news to you all and won't seek your help whatever calamities may befall us.

''''''''''''''''''''''''''''

''''''''''''''''''''''''''''.

''''''''''''''''''''''''''''

A: theek hai , theek hai main kuch karta hoon and then I'll get in touch with you.

''''''''''''''''''''''''''''.

A: Ya, bye goodnight.

Then he cut the phone. Riddhima had never seen Armaan so angry before. She understood what he was talking about, but to whom? Just then Armaan came out of the room and saw her at the door.

A: Riddima tumne mujhe bataya kyon nahi that Sanjeevani is going through a crisis? Kya tumhare liye bhi main gair ho gaya hoon?

Riddhima came close to him and putting her palms on his either cheeks, looked deep into his eyes said "tum ho to main hoon, to tum mere liye gair kaisey ho sakte ho?"

Immediately his temperature dropped from 100 degrees to 0 degrees. The mesmerising dimples which were back in his cheeks, were a proof of this. Pulling Armaan by his hands she took him to the swing on the terrace. After making him sit on it, she sat next to him and asked "Kissey itna gussa ho rahe the? Maine tumko itne naraaz kabhi nahi dekha hai."

A: Tumhe Snajeevani ke problem ke baare mein pata tha, to mujhe kyon nahi bataya?

R: Jab tumhari accident hui thi, tab Anjali di ne phone karke bas itna kaha tha, ke Sanjeevani mein koi emergency hai, isliye woh aur papa turant nahi aa sakte, lekin Atul jeeju jald se jald aa jayenge. At that time I was not in a mood to ask her what the emergency was, nor did she elaborate. The next day after you surgery, when jeeju called to say he was coming, I could hear the tension and dilemma in his voice, so I said that you were ok and there was no need for him to come. Later when I asked di about the problem, she said I should concentrate on taking care of you, and that the problem had been resolved. Actually problem kya hai?

A: Sanjeevani is today in a similar situation as it was eight years ago. A serious financial crunch.

R: What are you saying?

A: And this time another hospital chain wants to take over. After that Dr. Shashank will be only a nominal head. Even Atul and Anjie's position will be compromised.

R: You mean even Sanjeevani's name will be changed? Is there no other way out? Sanjeevani is papa's life. I myself can't accept this.

A: That's what I was talking about, to Atul . I need to talk to my lawyer and some financers.

R: But when and how did you come to know of this?

A: This afternoon when papa spoke he was happy that we were back home and I was doing fine and by slip of the tongue he said "I hope everything here also gets fine." Then I questioned him further till I got the whole truth from him.

R: But I didn't see you lose your temper then.

A: How could I? He was already in so much problem I just assured him I would do my best. From then on I was trying to talk to Anjie and Atul but they were not reachable. Only now I got Atul's number. I didn't want the kids to hear me aarguing with Atul, that's why I came here.

R: Armaan agar tum bura na mano to main ek baat pooch sakti hoon?

A: Yeh kya Riddhima, when did you need my permission to ask me something?

R: Armaan kya tum tumhare dad ke fund se Sanjeevani ki madad nahi kar sakte? I mean just as a loan.

A: Riddhima, woh to maine already electronic transfer kar diya hai. But that amount won't be sufficient. I'll need to contact some more financers.

She should have known, she needn't remind Armaan about such things. He was a selfless human, who didn't think twice before doing such generous actions. She had no words to express her gratitude, she moved onto his lap and kissed him passionately. When they broke out of the kiss Armaan said "I think I should get more problems in my life."

R: What are you saying?

A: Haan, only then my sweetheart opens up her passionate side to me.

R: Don't be stupid. Apne dil par haath rakhkar kaho, I haven't ever openly expressed my desires to you, before.

A: I was just joking. Of course you have on several occasions earlier, but not twice in the same day I think. (he winked teasing her.)

She got up from his lap and was about to walk away when he came and stood in front of her. Holding his left ear with his left hand he was leaning to his right to enable his bandaged arm get hold of his right ear. He looked comical like that and she started smiling at his antics, shaking her head. She was reminded of Ani's comical antics and said to herself "Pata kaun zyaada nautankbaaz hai, baap ya beta."

Then he held out his hand to her, and when she looked up at him, he asked "shall we?"

R: Dance? Abhi? Idhar?

He nodded.

R: Aur Music?

He switched on the music player on his cell, 'Jogi nachle ..Rang rachde ..' it began. He took both her arms and put them on his shoulders. Then he put his free hand around her waist, and started dancing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5KdQyvdsaQ

Riddhima took care to see that he didn't strain his shoulder. When she tried to move away when half the song was over, he refused to let go of her waist. When the song was over, she hugged his waist tight and pressed herself aginst him saying "this is the real homecomeing. This is where I belong." They stood like that for a few seconds, then she moved back and asked "Your shoulder is not hurting na?" He shook his head without taking his eyes off her.

R: Bus ab mujhe goorna bund karo aur neeche chalo.

They walked down to their room and she made him lie down comfortably. When she lay down next to him, he opened his left arm and indicated that she should come and lie down on his chest as she usually did.

R: Armaan it might be uncomfortable for you.

A: No it will be uncomfortable only if you don't. I'm most comfortable with you in my arms and your head on my chest.

He adjusted himself to accommodate her and with a sweet goodnight kiss, both of them were in their dreamworld.

I know that many of you had a lot of expectations from the 100^th part. I don't know how it has turned up. I hope I didn't disappoint you all..

Part 149

A: Achcha Riddhima, is weekend par hum bua ko kahan le chalein?

When there was no reply from her he said "Ok bua aapko Kochi guma laate hain. We'll go on Saturday morning and return on Sunday evening. Ok Riddhima?" She distractedly nodded in assent.

Soon it was time for dinner and after some TV watching all of them went to bed. Seeing Riddhima sulking Armaan asked her "Kya baat hai Riddhima, are you not keeping well? Why are you so quiet from the evening?" She said "Kuch nahi, I'm ok," and lay down beside him but his words, "that was your first birthday after our marriage, so naturally I had to give you some surprise. Surely you are not expecting it every year," kept playing in her mind as she fell asleep.

She was woken up my Ani crawling over her and calling out chweetly, "mama, mama" and that was followed by a 'pa' from him. She opened her eyes, pulled him beside her, cuddling and kissing him. He gurgled with laughter. Suddenly she wondered how come he was on the bed and so asked him"Tum bed par kaise aaye?" "aap ko bappy bilay kehne" she heard Armaan mimic his voice and suddenly the lights came on, blinding her for a minute. When she blinked and finally opened her eyes, there was this trolley in front of her and pointing to it Ani was saying "Ani mum mum". It was way beyond his reach or else he would have helped himself to it.

Suddenly all of them, Armaan, Akshat, kaka, akka and Bua entered the room together, singing 'happy birthday to you.' She blew the candle, cut the cake and fed it first to the most greedy person there, the little hero, then Akshat, bua, kaka, akka and lastly her hero. Then she touched the elders' feet to take their ashirwad and they left quietly. Armaan picked Ani and asked him to give mama a 'pa' which he willingly obliged and then in a baby voice said "Happy bilday mama". "Thank oo" she also replied in a baby voice. Armaan tried to snatch a kiss in the midst but she gently pushed him away. So he started rocking the little one in his arms, to get him to sleep.

Next Akshat kissed her and gave her a pretty pink rose box and a box in the shape of a butterfly and a card. The card had four palms imprinted on it with water colours. Two very tiny and two a little bigger. When she opened it she read the following words,

My mother's the greatest that I've ever known,

I think God made my mother like He'd make his own.

Mama, we may be small but our love for you is very big.

Hold our hand and lead us on ,

Keep us in your embrace always.

Lots n lots of love,

Akshat and Aniruddh.

R: yeh words tumhe kahan se miley?

Ak: mini maasi ne computer se print out nakaal kar diya tha. Par yeh card mein apna haath chapane ka idea mera tha. Baap re yeh Ani ka chaap lena kitna difficult tha. Who poora paper hi kharab kar deta. Athai bhi pareshaan ho gayi. Dus baar kiya tab yeh mila.

She kissed both the pairs of hands and said "cho chweet. Wonderful idea."

R: My God this rose box is so pretty. Iske andar kya hai?

AK: yeh khulta nahi hai mama. It's a type of bouquet.

R: Kya?

Ak: Haan mama, iske andar sirf sponge hai jo main florist uncle se le aaya. Aur yeh roses us sponge par pierce kiya hai.

R:Yeh tumne banaya hai?

Ak: Haan mama, bahut easy hai. 1 hour mein ban gaya.

Eyes brimming with tears, she hugged and kissed him saying "Thank you sooooooo much shona."

Armaan was smiling seeing the mother 'son love. Their bond was naturally stronger because they had spent more time together than he had with them.

Then she opened the butterfly box, inside it was another cute trinket box which she knew was definitely made by him. The butterfly shape card was only the wrapping.

And inside the trinket box were these two cute pair of earrings.

R: Wow, this is so pretty, kahan se kharida? Bahut mehenga hoga na? Tumhe paise kahan se miley?

Ak: Yeh to maine apne pocket mney se Mumbai mein kharida tha, jab aap us din mall mein dresses try kar rahi thi. Matlab tab dad se paise liye the, phir yahan aakar unhe lauta diya. Aap chahe to poochlo dad se.

R: Mujhe tumpar bharosa hai. Dad se poochne ki zaroorat nahi hai. Lekin itne paise tumne jama kaise kiye?

Ak: Mere paas the na. Mere birthday par, dadu aur athai ne jo rupaiye diye the, woh main bachake apne money box mein rakhe the. Aur Dadu jab purana paper raddhi wale ke paas dete hain, usmein jo paisa aata hai, woh mujhe dete hain. Unhone kaha tha ki woh mera pocket money hai. To main usey bhi apne money box mein rakhta hoon. Unhi paison se kharide. Aap ko pasand aaya.

"Bahut bahut bahut pasand aaya," she replied placing it against her ears and looking in the mirror. By then the little one had slept. Laying him in his cot Armaan and taking Akshat by his arms said, "chalo beta, tum bhi sojao, kal school bhi jaana hai na."

Akshat went along with him mumbling in an envious tone, "Haan, aapke to mazey hain every Saturday chutti rehati hai." When Armaan returned after tucking Akshat in bed, he saw Riddhima already in bed. asked him "Aap ka gift kahan hai?"

A: I've given you two wonderful sons what else do you want?

R: Achcha yeh baat hai? What about a daughter now?

"Sure, why not? Whenever you are ready for her, we can get her," he said pulling her near and kissing her. "Happy Birthday sweetheart" he added.

Riddhima was surprised as she was expecting a negative answer. Seeing her puzzled face he continued "Whenever you are ready, we'll go to Chandigarh and adopt one of the Nahi Paris." She shook her head and said "What if I want our own one?" "No way Riddhima, let's not get into that now, please." Before she could say anything further, to divert her from that topic, he got up. "Naraaz ho gaye?" she asked pulling his hand. He gave her his dashing dimpled smile and said "Nahi, sweetheart, just a minute." Then picking up his briefcase, extracted an envelope from it and handed it to her saying "This is my birthday gift to you, hope you like it."

The cover had MSHC stamp on it and was addressed to her. She pulled out a letter from it and read. It was a letter accepting her as an intern in MSHC, and promising her of a job on her successful completion of the internship and the post graduation. She couldn't believe it till she had read it at least 3 ' 4 times. Then she hugged him tight and showering him with kisses n both his cheeks alternately said "thank you, thank you, thank you so much. This is the best gift you could have given me." Then laying he head on his chest said "Now I can be with you all thrugh the day also. When do I begin?"

He pulled her up and holding her face in his palms asked "how about next week?" She nodded as his mouth descended to claim hers. He kissed her so sensuously and passionately, moving from her lips to her neck, her chest and then they were lost. He knew how to take her to the peak of ecstasy which left her moaning for more. A hoarse "Armaan" was the only sound which left her lips. It was dawn by the time the two lovers fell asleep.

He woke her up with a kiss, just a few hours later once again wishing her a very happy birthday. When she just snuggled closer to him, he whispered in her ears, "kapde pehen lo, Ani uth jayega." That made her eyes open wide and she hastily pulled on her clothes just in time the hero was also awake. When Armaan picked him and handed him to her she complained "I had managed to wean him, now I'll have to do so all over again."

A: It's ok you can wean him when he's feeling better. Now he seems to want only your feed all the time.

R: His mouth is quite ok now. He can take solids. Once he starts taking my feed he doesn't want to take any other food. Akka says as the child grows, breast milk becomes thicker and tastier, so they do not like to give it up. That's why I weaned him in the first place, so that he'll take more solids. After the infection he's avoiding solids. He won't gain weight if he does that and he'll also end up with all sort of mineral deficiency.

A; And you'll be away for the whole day when you join MSHC.

"Chalo, I'll go and get Akshat ready for school and drop him," he said, as left to Akshat's room. After she fed him, she went and handed him over to akka and went to have her bath. When she came out she saw a pretty blue suit laid out for her on the bed. She picked it up with a smile, knowing who had left it there and a pair of familiar arms hugged her waist from behind. Putting his chin on her shoulder and nibbling her earlobes, he asked "pasand aaya?" Turning to the side and kissing his cheek she asked "Aap laaye aur humey pasand nahi aaye, aisey ho sakta hai? It's very pretty. Chalo, hato, let me wear it, Akshat aata hoga. Aur tum bhi jaldi se naha lo. We'll drop Akshat at school and go to the temple."

She went into Akshat's room and saw him all set for school.

AK: Mama aapko yeh dress bahut suit karta hai.

R: thankyou. Aur dekha maine kaunse earrings pehne hai?

Ak: Haan, aur yeh aap ke dress ke saath exactly match bhi ho rahe hain.

R: yes shona, tumne apne dad ko earrings pehle hi dikhaye honge na, isliye unhone uske matching dress liya hoga.

"Galat, earrings saath le jaakar match karwake kharida hai." They heard Armaan's voice from the doorway. All three of them got into a hug and then went to have breakfast.

Kaka had prepared badam halwa, and akka had prepared masala dosa and sambhar. All her favourite dishes, for breakfast. Akshat was sulking because he was the only one who had to go. But when he came to know that his parents were dropping him, he was very happy.

The temple was quiet and serene though there were quite a number of devotees, it being a Saturday. Armaan spoke to the Pandit and asked him to offer a special pooja for Riddhima as it was a birthday. As usual after the pooja, the priest offered kumkum to be put on her maang and a string of flowers and gave them an apple as Prasad. As they finished making parikrama of the temple, they met an old couple who lived in their colony. They gave them a nod and a recognizing smile and went away.

R: yeh kitne cute couple hai na? They go everywhere together only.

A: Yes, everyday they go for a walk early in the morning. When I go for my jog, I see them returning from the walk, holding each other's hand.

They automatically proceeded towards the water tank in the temple, where everyone threw puffed rice for the fish. They went and sat side by side on the steps of the tank.

R: It's so peaceful out here na?

A: hmmm. Aaj bhagwan se kya maanga tumne?

"Maangna kya tha? You get me everything even before I feel its need. I only prayed He should keep you always by my side," she said slipping her arm through his and resting her head on his shoulder.

"Like that uncle and aunty?" he asked teasingly. She slapped him on his arm, and grumpily said "tumhe to har baat mein mazak soojta hai." Putting his arms around her he said "Sholly sweetheart, no mazak. Main bhi yahi chahta hoon. You and me not just in this birth but in all our rebirths also.

Part 123

Tears came to Riddhima's eyes also when she hugged Muskaan and Nikki. As she held Akshita in her arms and kissed her, she remembered the look in Armaan's eyes that morning as he kissed the little one goodbye. He had said "Mann karta hai isey yahin rakh loon. Angel please don't leave us and go. Stay with us." "Hey, give us back our Angel. If you are so fond of her have one of your own. Don't kidnap ours." Abhi had teased. (A real transformation had come over him and that could be seen by the radiation coming from Nikki's face.) Then everyone had laughed.

"It was lovely having you all over. I wish all of us could live together like this forever. Please do come again as often as possible." Riddhima requested them as they bid goodbye.

N: Now it's your turn to come to Chandigarh and Patiala. And don't give the excuse of the difficulty in travelling with a small kid. I've travelled all this way with an even smaller one.

R: We'll surely make a trip soon.

After their vehicle moved off, Riddhima called up Armaan, to ask whether she had done the right thing in sending Akshat with them.

A: It's ok Riddhima, you don't worry, Shafi will take good care of him. Aur aaj mujhe aane mein thodi der hogi. Ek important case discuss karna hai Dr. Mohan ke saath.

Riddhima replied "OK" in a very small voice. As it is, he hadn't come home for lunch because, from that day both Sheena and Rajan were on leave. They were getting married the following week. Hence he had bid his friends goodbye in the morning itself.

As Riddhima entered the house leaving Ani playing with the dogs, under akka's supervision, she saw Bashir and Devi packing their things. They were to leave for Mumbai the next day.

Bashir came to her and said, "we are going to the Devikulam temple, as Devi wants to offer her prayer there, before going to Mumbai." Then, while Bashir phoned for a taxi Devi confided to Riddhima, "My Bashir will be all alone if I go away from this world. I have to live for him. I want to ask the Devikulam Goddess, after whom I have been named, to cure me for his sake." Riddhima who was already choking with emotions couldn't control the tears. She hugged Devi and said "I have great faith in that Goddess. She saved my Armaan when he was in that flight accident. I'm sure she'll hear your prayers too."

Kaka finished preparing for dinner and left for his walk, informing Riddhima about it. With great difficulty Akka dragged Ani away from the dogs, washed and changed him and gave him his bottle feed. As he hadn't slept in the afternoon, he immediately fell asleep. Akka asked for permission to go home that evening. Realizing that she hadn't gone there for over a week now, Riddhima agreed.

But when akka left, she regretted having let her go, because after the hullagulla of the last 10 days, the whole house felt too silent. She felt so depressed that she didn't feel like doing anything. She just lay down on the bed.

Armaan had gauged from Riddhima's voice that she was not ok. He managed to get an earlier appointment with Dr. Mohan and explained the case as succintly as possible. Dr. Mohan also seconded his diagnosis and treatment plan. So things got sorted out much earlier than he expected. Giving Sr. Stella the final instructions he left for home.

When he reached home he was surprised to see it in complete darkness. None of the lights had been switched on. Was there a powercut? He turned to see the other houses, but all of them were lighted up. Perhaps it was the fuse or maybe they have gone out. Just then he saw Kaka come back from his walk and asked him "Sab log kahan gaye kaka?

K: Bashir aur Devi mandir gaye hain, par baaki sab to ghar par hi the.

Kaka opened the door with his key and switched on the light. Armaan went straight to his room without even taking off his shoes and switched on the light there. He saw Riddhima asleep and got worried. It was so unlike her to be sleeping at this odd hour, unless she was ill. He quickly went over and touched her forehead. Our little fellow who was just waking up, was disturbed by the lights suddenly coming on and started crying. Kaka, who had followed Armaan, picked him up saying to himself "Yeh muniamma kahan chali gayi?" Then he asked Armaan, "Bahu ki tabeeyat to theek hai na?" The noises around her woke her up and she opened her eyes to see Armaan looking at her worriedly.

She immediately sat and looking at the clock said "aisey hi leti thi, pata nahi kab aankh lag gayi. Sorry."

K: Tumhari tabeeyat to theek hai na bahu?

R: Haan kaka, main bilkul theekh hoon.

Kaka handed Ani to her and left. She turned towards Armaan and seeing him still eye her doubtfully she reiterated, "Honestly Armaan I'm fine. With everyone gone and the house so silent, I felt very depressed and lay on the bed, as this fellow also had slept. I don't know when I fell asleep."

A: You know how scared I got seeing the whole house in darkness. I knew you wouldn't have gone anywhere without informing me, but you didn't sound ok when you called earlier that's why I was very much worried. Where's akka?

R: Akka wanted to go home as she hasn't been there for a week.

A: But why did she leave you alone and go.

R: Armaan I'm not a baby for her to babaysit me.

A: No but she shouldn't have left you alone, Akshat was also not there. That's why I rushed home.

Putting Ani on the bed beside her, she wrapped her arms around her husband's neck and giving him a sweet kiss on his cheek said "That was very chweet of you. You read me like a book Dr. Mallik and that's what I love the most about you. Thank you sooooooooo much." He smiled at her remark and hugged her. Then releasing her, he kissed her forehead and said I'm sweating and stinking. Let me shower, then I'll take you out on a drive.

R: No Armaan, you take that shower but there's no need to go anywhere. Your presence is enough to cheer me up.

"Oh like that? Then we can have fun at home only" he said nuzzling her neck. The little one at once stood up holding both of them and started kissing both of them. Both his parents burst laughing at his antics. Then Armaan went for his shower and Riddhima proceeded to the kitchen to give Ani his khichdi.

When she started feeding him, he shook his head and began spitting it out. When she gave him a stern look, he pointed towards the door saying "Bow bow". Riddhima understood that he wanted to go near Snoopy and Droopy and have his khana. "Tumhari athai ne tumhe bahut bigaad diya hai" she shouted at him and took him out.

As she was feeding him she heard a car draw up and saw Akshat coming running towards her. His mouth was pink showing that his Shafi uncle had gotten him his favourite candy floss. She thanked Shafi for taking care of Akshat. He said it had been a pleasure and left. Akshat hugged her and said mama mujhe khana nahi chahiye. Shafi uncle ne mujhe dosa aur icecream khilaya, aur baad mein candy floss bhi. "Woh to dikh he raha hai" she commented and smiled.

Ak: Mama humey bhi kahin chalna chahiye chuttiyon mein. Warna chuttiyon ka kya maza.

R: Akshu, tumhe pata hai na, accident ke wajah se tumhare dad ko kitni chutti leni padi? Abhi to hospital join kiye hain, to unko phirse chutti kaise mil sakti hai.

Saying, "Dad ko chutti nahi milegi, par tumlog to jaa sakte ho," Armaan joined them. After his shower he had come looking for Ani and Riddhima.

Ak: Nahi dad humlog akele nahi jayenge.

R: Theek kaha Akshu ne. Hum akele kahan ghoomne jaayenge?

Ak: Aur agar gaye bhi to aapke bagair humey maza hi nahi aayega.

R: Bilkul sahi kaha tumney.

A: Arrey aap log meri baat to suno. Why don't you all go to Mumbai for a week or ten days. Wahan Anshul bhi hoga, Akshay ko company dene. Uski bhi chutti hogi.

R: Nahi Armaan, Yaad hai gaye saal main zid karke gayi thi to kya hua tha?

A: Come on Riddhima, har baar thodi tum bimaar padogi. Moreover last year you were pregnant, to problem hui thi.

Ak: Mama haan kardo na. Aapko apne mama, papa si milne ka mann nahi kar raha? Agar main aap se door rehta, to amin baar baar aata aapse milne.

Bashir and Devi arrived from the temple and joined them.

D: What's the matter Akshat? What are you sad about? Do you want to go to Mumbai to your grandparents? Come with us tomorrow, we'll take you.

Akshat looked at his dad and then at his mama. Riddhima quickly said "Nahi, nahi. We'll go some other time. If you take Akshat I'll feel very lonely. You know today after all of you left I was very depressed. With the four of them gone itself, the house is so silent. Tomorrow you people will also leave. Armaan is going to be very busy for the next three weeks as two of his colleagues are getting married and are on leave. If Akshat also goes away I won't be able to bear it." Then pulling Akshat on her lap she said "hum dono saath saath enjoy karenge tumhari chutti. Humlog park mein jayenge, picture dekhne chalenge , ok?"

Akshat didn't back answer his mama, but his face had a sad look.

Part 130

Riddhima knew what he really needed now. She moved onto his lap and holding his face in her palms gave him a sweet kiss. Then she said, "Armaan, I don't want you to accept it just for my sake. Honestly, if I gave the offer any thought, it's only because I felt, it would boost your career. If Di can be the Administrative Head of Sanjeevani and Jeeju the head of its Cancer Ward, because they are the daughter and son-in-law of Dr. Shashank Gupta, legally you also have an equal right being his other son-in-law. Even if I'm their adopted daughter, legally, I have same rights as Di. Rather, you have a greater claim, as you have even made financial investment in Sanjeevani. Sometimes I feel you are so laid back and unambitious, I need to prod you.

A: Riddhima I'm content with what I have. I'll only get as much as I'm destined to, no more no less.

R: No Armaan they say opportunity only knocks once, so I wanted you to take a try. But I would definitely never want you to do anything which your heart doesn't permit. I've told you earlier also, I am fond of my parents, I respect them but the bonding I had with them has disappeared. And they, lost all the rights you speak of, on the very day they mercilessly abandoned me.

I agree, I made a terrible blunder, went against all the moral values they had instilled in me and disappointed them. But I made sure that my mistake never came out into the open or spoilt their reputation. I saw to it that their heads never had to bow down in shame.

Armaan, you were the one I had wronged the most. I had kept you away from your child for six years. How long did it take for you to forgive me? Just a few days. Could you harden your heart against me or hate me for my mistake? That's true love Armaan. True love forgives and forgets.

You had no need to be supportive to me. You went out of your way to save the life of the very person who stood between you and me, knowing fully well that once he was ok, he would once again take your love and your son far away from you. You may say it was your duty as a doctor, but I know you did it only to appease my conscience. By de-addicting him you wanted me to get out of the guilt, of having driven him to it. That's true love Armaan. True love is unconditional and selfless.

What did my parents do? They washed their hands off me and didn't even turn back to see whether I was dead or alive. I agree I had committed the most unforgiveable sin, but didn't they ever wonder what happened to me? What if Abhi had realized the truth about the baby and thrown us out? Where would I have gone with the baby? How would I have survived? Just because I had sinned, did their hearts turn into stone? Where was their love then? Why all the love now? I'm the same sinner. Just because I'm married to that person, everything is fine now? Have I been absolved of my sins? What if you had refused to accept me and my child? Would they have forgiven me then?

Armaan couldn't speak a word. He was shell shocked. He didn't have answers to any of her questions. When she looked him in the eyes, rivulets of tears pouring down hers, and awaited for his reply, he once again took her into a rib-crashing hug saying, "Riddhima I don't have the answers to any of your questions and neither am I in a state to think them. I only know I'm the world's luckiest man to have you as my wife, my better half. And for that I shall be indebted to Abhi all my life."

He held her as close as he possibly could for several minutes. Then when he realized that he was nearly choking her, he loosened his hug and asked her "Did you say all this to Anjie?" She smiled and shook her head. "Much as I would have liked to, I didn't. It would have created a rift once again. Superficially everything looks fine, so I let it be. Actually I was also not very keen on moving. There may come a day when in some anger I may pour all this out to them. Though I know I'm right, it might hurt them. I don't want to hurt them, even though I can't forgive them with my whole heart. Whatever said and done they raised me, gave me excellent education and even showered me with their love till I was their obedient daughter. Otherwise I might have landed up in some orphanage and God only knows what I would be doing now."

Armaan shook his head and pulled her closer saying "You are always taking the blame for everything and unnecessarily torturing yourself. Riddhima I keep telling you, woh sab kismet ka khel tha, destiny. We shouldn't spoil the present worrying about the past, which we cannot undo, or about the future, which we cannot predict. Que Sera Sera, what will be, will be. We can only control today, so let's make the best of it and forget the Mumbai topic for now."

R: After giving it some thought, I feel in a way it's good to be at a distance. Meet on some occasions, spend some happy times together and then return back to your own haven.

When Armaan raised his eyebrows questioningly she said, "Yes Armaan, you and the kids have made this house, my haven, or rather heaven for me. I don't need anyone or anything else to keep me happy. So don't torture yourself over whatever it is that papa told you."

Armaan was more than happy to close the topic and koochikoo with his wife but his son thought otherwise. Only thing, this time it was the elder one who saw his car parked outside, and came screaming in to know why dad was home before him. They immediately moved apart and Armaan explained to him that he had finished his work early, so he had come home early.

Ak: Dad kya aaj hum 'Animal World' dekhne chale? Kal aapne kaha 'Houseful' hai because it's Sunday. Aaj to holiday nahi hai to houseful nahi hoga na?

Armaan remembered that he had promised to take him for the new 3D film, which many of his friends had already seen. And as that was the main topic of discussion among his friends, Akshat was feeling left out in the group. When Armaan said "Chalo dekhte hain if tickets are available," Akshat was thrilled. He jumped onto his mama's lap asking her "Mama aap bhi chalogi na?"

R: Akshu tum jaante ho na, Ani theatre mein rone lagta hai. It's ok tum dono ho aao.

Ak: Ani ko athai sambhal legi na?

When Riddhima said "Nahi beta," Akshat's face fell and even before she could complete he grumbled "Aap mujhe chodkar kahin bhi jaa sakti ho, par Ani ko chodkar nahi." When Riddhima was about to explain to him that he was smaller, Armaan held her hand and squeezed it. She understood he wanted to convey something to her. So she just looked at him. He switched off his cell and told Akshat, "Jao jaldi jaakar kapde badal lo aur nashta karlo. Humey aadhe gante mein nikalna hoga aur tumhari mama bhi zaroor aayegi. Tum sahi keh rahe ho, Athai Ani ko park le jaayegi."

Akshat immediately hugged Armaan saying "Thank you very much Dad. You are the best." Then kissing him and his mama, he ran to do his dad's bidding.

A: Riddhima in all this Mumbai confusion, I forgot to tell you something.

When Riddhima looked at him askance, he told her about what he had read in Akshat's diary. Now she understood why he had asked Akshat to manao her and didn't do so himself. She also hugged him and said "as Akshat said, you are undoubtedly 'THE BEST'. Kash sab log yeh samaj paate. Anyway forget everybody, let's enjoy ourselves."

Armaan had called up the theatre manager whom he was friendly with and requested him to keep 3 tickets for them. By the time Riddhima fed Ani and Armaan packed him off to the park with akka, they were late and reached the theatre just as the movie began. Riddhima was upset and when Akshat enquired about it she said, "I don't like to miss the ads. I like to see right from the 'no smoking' ad." Akshat found his mother's complaint very silly, but before he could reply to it, the movie began.

Armaan sat in the middle with Riddhima and Akshat on either side of him. Akshat was fascinated by the 3 D effects. He was enjoying the scene where a toad after patiently observing its prey, leapt on it and snapped it up. Suddenly, he heard his mama scream and hide her face on his dad's shoulder. He looked at her and innocently asked "Mama kya hua?" "Tumhari mama Mr. Toad ko lapakte dekhkar darr gayi" replied Armaan to tease her. Actually in 3D effect it looked as if it was coming right on the audience, so she had felt creepy about it.

"Mama yeh to film hai, aap itni kyun darti ho?" Akshat asked innocently and reverted back to the film. But the two adults were elsewhere. "Kuch yaad aaya" he whispered in her ears. She smiled as she moved away from him and smiled. After that, the two of them were seeing an altogether different movie, their minds rewinding to a similar incident that had taken place almost nine years back.

Riddhima remembered how he had with great difficulty asked her out on a date, and she had roped in the whole gang. While he, thought about the arrangements he had made at the theatre, for flowers to be showered on her. Today it seemed such a stupid plan but back then he had thought it was the most romantic thing to do. How dumb was that? And he used to think of himself as the 'love-guru' who knew all the tricks in the book to patao a girl and prided that he could patao any girl he wanted. He chuckled to himself at that. When Riddhima looked questioningly he just whispered "Baad mein," as he didn't want to disturb other people.

Riddhima thought she would ask him about it in the interval. But as soon as the intermission sign came on, Akshat pulled his dad out of his seat wanting to get an icecream. But when he came to know that he couldn't bring the icecream inside the auditorium, he settled for a packet of Lays wafers. Armaan got a tub of popcorn for Riddhima ,though he had to wait in the queue for it (and Akshat was getting impatient lest the movie should begin). When he handed it to her, both of them burst laughing remembering Lovely and Atul. But they couldn't make any conversation as the movie began immediately.

After the movie got over Akshat was so excited, that he talked non-stop about it, all the way home. And once home someone else was eagerly awaiting their arrival. After his visit to the park, Athai had fed him his khichdi and Ani had fallen asleep. Akka had brought his cot to the far end of the hall, so that she could keep a watch on him, while she watched TV, with the volume down. But as usual he had woken up hearing his dad's car honk. And started his "mamama, dadada" seeing them enter.

Akshat ran to him and happily announced "Hum log tujhe ullu banakar film dekhne gaye the." But the little one was least affected by it. He was only concerned about being picked up and was thrilled when his dad obliged immediately. He gurgled with laughter when he threw him in the air and caught him, and also when he kissed him. Then putting his tiny hand on his cheek started mumbling in his baby language as if he was complaining why they had gone out without taking him along.

This part is dedicated to my favourite TV actress, Shilpa Anand, whose birthday was on 10^th December and also a celebration of QSS's first birthday. Last year when I started this ff, I had planned it as a mini ff of maximum 10 parts. And today I'm posting the 163^rd part of it. It's unbelievable to me. And it's totally because of the love and support of all you readers. I thank you all from the depth of my heart, for the same.

Join the party where we celebrate Ani's birthday as well as that of QSS!

Love, Shardha.

Part 139

Armaan stood admiring the decoration he had just completed.

Riddhima had wanted to hold the party at a hotel, but Armaan had insisted that they have it in this house, which was now officially their own.

One wall depicted the forest, as the theme for the birthday was safari.

The window had some monkeys on it.

along with these decorations

and on the table was placed this centre piece

along with plates glasses and napkins with the safari theme.

He called out to Akshat who was packing the children's return gifts, a blower to blow bubbles.

A: Akshat, kaise lag raha hai?

Ak: wow dad it's awesome. Aisey lag raha hai jaise hum sach much jungle mein aa gaye hain.

A: chalo ab tumhara kaam ho gaya ho to tayyar ho jao. Aadhe gante mein guest aa jayenge. They had invited the kids from their colony and some of the MSHC staff, who had small kids. And of course Akshat had invited some of his classmates including Tania and her brother. The invitation card had a pretty picture of animals.

The wordings went like this.
"This is your passport for a birthday safari filled with fun and excitement. Explorer Aniruddh will be leading an expedition through "Game Park", 14,Temple road, Munnar, Africa. The safari theme party adventure starts at 6pm. Explorers may want to practice their wild animal sounds, especially roaring like a lion!!"

Riddhima had dressed up the birthday boy in a khaki shorts, blue denim shirt and a broad brimmed hat, very much like a safari tourist. He was very excited about his new clothes, but the hat was irritating him. So he took it off and flung it away. It went and hit Armaan and Akshat who were entering the room. When Riddhima glared at him the little just put his eyes down. But when Akshat said "mama, main yeh topi pehenunga" he wanted it back. So he started shouting, "anna nai, Ani, anna nai Ani" (Meaning anna would not wear it, Ani would.) (As he couldn't pronounce bhai, akka had taught him to call Akshat 'anna', the tamil word meaning 'elder brother')

Akshat picked up a candy lying on the table and popped it into his mouth. The younger one immediately started, "mama, Ani kaki"

(He used his own name instead of saying I or me)

R: ab tune chocolate kahan dekha?

Ani: Anna kaki

A: Akshat usey bhi ek de do.

Ak: Lekin mama ne usey candy dene se mana kiya hai. Us din ek uskey gale mein atak gayi tha na, isliye.

Ani: ani kaki, ani kaki.

A: Theek hai usey ek piece chocolate khilado.

R: Nahi Armaan he'll spoil his dress. Maine badi mushkil usey tayyar kiya hai.

Ani: Ani kaki, Ani kaki

A: Theek hai main khilaoonga, tumhare haath mein nahi doonga, ok?

"ok" he nodded happily. Armaan asked Akshat to fetch a chocolate and fed it to him. After akka got ready, she came and took him so that the others could get ready.

The hosts were all ready by 6pm. The honored guests from Mumbai, the hero's nana, nani, mausa, maasi and his cousin who had come to Munnar especially for his birthday, were all in the safari dress code - Khaki shorts and casual shirts for men, three fourths and shirts for females. Only Naniji was excused from the code. Hats were a must. They were all beaming as they waited for the other guests to arrive.

"Nani, nanu main kaise dikh raha hoon?" Akshat asked his grandparents and received some back thumping for it from his granddad, while his nani said "Ekdum safari explorer lag rahe ho. Par aaj ka hero kahan reha gaya?" Then seeing akka carrying Ani, she went to take him form her.

The children were excited to see this at the entrance to their house. Even the adults admired it.

And even more thrilled, seeing the foot prints of different animals on the driveway. As soon as they arrived, each one was given a mask. They were provided with a marker to make designs of their favourite animal's face on it, so that they could be kept busy till the other kids arrived.

The party was real fun. Armaan had got big cut outs of the various animals made and placed them against one wall. The children were given cut out of tails which they had to go and stick on the correct animal. Seeing the giraffe with a monkey's tail stuck on its stomach the children roared with laughter. Then there was the elephant with a deer's tail stuck to its ears. Oh what fun the kids had. Then children were asked to dance like various animals, to the music played. Armaan clicked photographs of each kid, with the cut out of their favourite animal.

Soon it was time for the cake cutting. Two cakes were ordered because when the Malliks went to order for the cake, both looked so nice they didn't know which to choose. So Armaan ordered both, thinking as there would be many guests, it would be needed.

When Riddhima asked Ani to blow the candle, he blew so softly that it didn't go off. So his dad said "Ani zor se" and he blew so hard, that the candle which was placed at the edge of the cake, fell off. All the children started laughing and Ani also started clapping his hands and laughing. Then he cut the cake with his mama holding his hand. The children were instructed to roar like lions instead of clapping when he cut the cake.

When suddenly they all roared together, the little one got so scared that he clutched his mama's dress and hid his face in her chest. Everybody laughed once again. But he was back to his mood when everyone gifted him a variety of toys and dresses. Akshat purposely gave him a notebook and a pencil box, exactly like his own, as a gift. But the little one shook his head and refused to take it saying "Anna kool" (school).

Akshat started laughing and saying "Jab main mana karta hoon tab mera book lekar scribble karte ho, faad dete ho. Aur jab main de rah hoon to keh rahe ho mera school ka book hai. Tum vaakai buddhu hi ho." Hearing the word 'buddhu' the little one started shaking his head vigorously, to say he was not.

Snacks were laid out on the table and everyone was asked to help themselves. Though there was quite a variety, the sandwiches in the shape of animal faces, seemed to be a hit among kids. All of them were asking for their favourite animal and the elders were picking it for them. Then they would tell each other, "Oh! I ate the giraffe's ears" or "the elephant's trunk."

It was past eight when the children started moving out with their return gifts. Armaan also managed to take out prints of their photos with 'Thank you' printed on the rear, and gave it to them as they left. The children left with broad smiles, but drowsy eyes.

As Armaan was printing the photos, Atul came across the earlier photos, taken in the houseboat and asked about it. Armaan was glad to tell him snips and bits about that unforgettable trip.

By the time the house put in order and they went to bed it was past 11. As he lay Ani in his cot, Armaan said "One year just flew away na? It seems like yesterday that we were holding him in our arms for the first time and he's already one." "Don't say that," Riddhima replied, "to me each day seems a year. My God! He's getting to be so mischievous! You know this afternoon I was mixing his milk and by mistake left the sugar open. He picked a glass of water and poured it in the sugar. And when I shout at him he makes such an innocent face or does something to make me laugh. He's a rascal really."

A: Come on, don't call him names. At least not on his birthday. He's only a kid.

Then changing the topic he suddenly said "today when I was printing the kids' photographs, Atul saw the Allepey houseboat ones and asked me about it. It was really an awesome trip na?" She also had a smile on her face as she nodded. Both of them lay on the bed thinking and talking about that trip.

Armaan recalled the trip as if it had been yesterday and not three months ago.

It was late evening when Shafi stopped the van at an office near the Allepey port. Armaan was wondering why they had come there. All along he had been pestering Riddhima asking where they were going. She only said "All in good time Armaan, be patient," and then cuddled up to him and went to sleep.

Riddhima went into the office and came out accompanied by a man who got into the van. Before Armaan could ask her anything the man directed Shafi towards the jetty. There, standing before them was a beautifully lighted houseboat. It's beauty was breath taking. None of them could take their eyes off it. It glittered like a diamond in the reflection of the river water.

They stood looking at the houseboat, as Shafi unloaded their luggage and man started taking it in. Armaan wondered how he hadn't seen the luggage in the carrier above the van and those below the back seat. When had they loaded it?

If there were wonderstruck by its outer beauty, it's interior was even more spectacular. It was a marvelous hotel suite, all decked up like a bride.

Akshat looked amazed at his mama and asked "are we going to stay on this boat tonight?" "Yes, Of course. Kaisa hai?" she asked all of them in general. "bahut sunder hai bahu. Kabhi socha nahi ke boat mein bhi ghar ban sakta hai," kaka said. Even akka was very appreciative. In all this, only Aarmaan was absolutely quiet. The attender came with their welcome drinks and took their order for dinner.

There were three bedrooms. Riddhima had Akshat's and kaka's luggage put in one, Ani's and akka's in the other bedroom and hers and Armaan's in the master bedroom. Soon the boat set sailing, cruising along the river. The brightly lit township on it's bank, made a pretty picture. All of them decided to sit outside on the deck. Akka brought out the sweaters for the boys and put it for them. Riddhima had brought warm clothes for all, as the tour operator had told her it would be chilly. There were shawls for akka and kaka.

As Riddhima went to their room to get the pullover for Armaan and her shawl from their bag, Armaan came and hugged her from behind. Then kissing the side of her neck asked "Yeh sab kya hai?" "Kyon pasand nahi aaya?" was her retort. Then turning around in his arms said "This is my surprise gift to you for your birthday, though belated." "When did you do all the arrangements, without even breathing a word about it to me, and that too when you were so ill?" he questioned.

R: Did you think you are the only one capable of giving surprises? Only tell me did you like this idea?

"It's fabulous, just like my sweetheart," said Armaan and bent down to kiss her lips, when they heard Akshat calling out,"Mama, dad, yahan aayiye na. Dekho kitna beautiful moon nikla hai." She gave him a quick kiss and saying "later" slipped out of the room. Armaan was stood dazed at that spot for sometime. She had gone to such lengths to surprise him he thought and smiled to himself thinking of her parting word "later". It held so much promise. Then he too joined his lovely family on the deck.

The night was indeed beautiful and one rarely got such an open view of the sky. Thankfully it was a cloudless night and the stars twinkled brightly. At a distance they could see other houseboats. The light swaying motion of the boat had a soothing effect. Soon dinner was served and after that all of them retired to their rooms, as the drive had tired them.

Armaan gasped in surprise when he entered the room. While they had their dinner, it had been decorated like an honeymoon suite with flowers and candles. Raising his eyebrows he questioned her "What's all this?" "It comes with the package," she replied and went into the washroom.

When she came out, she saw him sitting at the French window, in a reclining chair, looking out. When she went near him, he pulled her onto his lap and wrapped her in the shawl which he had on his shoulder. The gentle swaying, the cool breeze blowing and the moonlight created such a romantic atmosphere. They just sat like that, in each other's arms for an hour or so.

Then seeing her sleepy, he gently picked her in his arms and laid her on the bed and lay down beside her. When she started nuzzling his neck and unbuttoning his shirt kissed him, he held her away saying "Nahi Riddhima, you are not well. You need to rest. From Monday you'll have to go to the clinic again." She just moved away from him in a huff, to the far end of the bed and turned to the other side. He thought he would let her cool off a bit and then butter her up. When he went close to her after a few minutes and whispered in her ears "Ab tak naraaz ho mujse?" she neither replied nor turned towards him.

When he put his hand on her cheeks to turn her around, he found them wet. He sat up at once and pulled her to face him. Kissing away her tears, he very tenderly asked "Riddhima maine aisey kya keh diya ke tum ro padi?" Now she couldn't control her sobs. "Whenever I plan a surprise for, something has to happen to spoil it. You always make me so happy with your surprises. This time I wanted to do the same for you, but I had to fall ill and spoil it."

A: Sweetheart, why do you think it's spoilt and I'm not happy? I'm astounded by your wonderful surprise. I don't think even our honeymoon suite was so tastefully decorated. I loved this wonderful surprise. I didn't mean to hurt you or spoil your mood. I was only concerned about your health.

R: That's what. It's always about me and never about you. I can't do anything just for you na?

"Riddhima tum bachchon jaisi baatein kar rahi ho," and kissed her deeply before she could make any further arguments. Then he kissed her eyes, her neck taking her to heights is ecstasy. When she did likewise, kissing his chest, neck and nibbling his earlobes, he was totally lost. What followed was anybody's guess.

He woke up to the sun's rays falling on his face.

And her hair flying over his face. Though they had the quilt over them it was quite chilly. And she was trying to get closer and closer to him. He loved that and lay admiring her serene face, early in the morning. It was angelic without any tension. He saw the hollow of her cheek and neck. She had pulled down in the last few days. As if sensing his stare, she asked him without even opening her eyes, "for the last 21 months you've been seeing the same face each morning. Still you keep staring at it. What do you see in it?" Armaan kissed her and said "I see the wonderful day ahead of me and my wonderful life beside me, when I wake up to this angelic face.

Part 141

Akka came and took Ani for his maalish (body massage) and bath. Seeing that the adults were talking seriously, Akshat went to his room to complete the assignment which he had neglected for the last two days, as he was busy playing with his cousin and enjoying his brother's birthday.

S: Yes, Riddhima, I totally agree with Padma, Armaan is really very caring and I don't mind your taking up for him either.

P: Jab tum logon ne Mumbai aane se mana kiya, yeh bahut disappointed ho gaye the, aur naraaz bhi.

R: Naaraz to main bhi go gayi thi maa. Aapko pata hai tab di ne Armaan ke bare mein kya kya kaha tha?

She couldn't speak further because Armaan held her hand and prevented her from continuing.

A: Riddhima forget all that.

P: Yes, forget what Anjie said. You know her nature. She says whatever comes to her mind without considering others' feelings. Often she says things in the heat of the moment and not really meaning it. You've always been the mature and understanding one.

R: Maa, I don't care what she says about me, but I won't have her talking nonsense about Armaan or my kids. Please tell her that. I would've said it to her, myself, but I don't want to cause any rift.

A: Riddhima, you know Anjie, her bark is worse than her bite. She only talks like that, but doesn't have anything in her heart. Or else, would she have come all the way here, for Ani's birthday, inspite of her busy schedule?

P: Dekha, Armaan tumhari di ko tumse zyaada samaj paya hai. Achcha woh sab chodo. Actually, we both made this trip not only to attend to Ani's birthday, but also to seek your forgiveness.

"What are you saying maa?" Riddhima asked looking surprisedly at her and then at her papa, whose head was bent down and finally at Armaan who also seemed to be equally surprised.

Shashank lifted his head and said "yes beti for many things. First and foremost, for not recognizing what a wonderful person Armaan is. Secondly for not trusting you and breaking all ties with you, without even giving an opportunity to explain yourself."

We were disappointed when you refused to shift to Mumbai and were hurt by your decision. But when we talked over and over about it, we realized we were the ones at fault. Our past behavior was responsible for distancing you from us. Hence we decided to come over and ask your forgiveness. I hope you can forgive us Riddhima." As he said this, there were tears in her eyes.

She got up and went and sat on the sofa between her parents. Then hugging her papa she said "Aap mujhe sharminda kar rahe hain, Papa". "Maafi to mujhe maangni chahiye, aapke dil dukhane ke liye" but her dad put his palms to her mouth, preventing her from talking further. "We just want to forget the past." He said kissing her forehead.

P: haan Riddhima, let bygones be bygones.

Riddhima turned around and hugged her mother. Armaan sat watching them and was extremely happy for her. At last she had got her parents back. The broken bond, would now start mending.

Wiping her eyes, Riddhima said "Main un saath saalon ko tab hi bhool gayi thi, jab mujhe mera khoya hua pyaar wapas mil gaya." She went acoss and hugged Armaan, and he hugged her back. She continued "The only sad thing is because of me, my Akshu also had to sacrifice a lot. I can never compensate to him for that. But he's such an understanding child, he never ever questions me about it." She couldn't continue as her voice choked.

P: Don't blame yourself for it, Riddhima. Everything is not in our hands. Each of us are born with our share of joys and our share of sorrows. Think that Akshat's days of sorrow got over in those six years. Here afterwards he'll have only days of joy. Whenever God gives someone too many hardships at a time, he'll compensate for it by giving them double the happiness, at some other time.

Suddenly changing the topic, Dr. Shashank said "Armaan your interview on TV regarding the need for more clinics and more support, for psychiatric treatment, was an eye opener.

P: Your papa proudly called all his Dr. friends and asked them to watch the show. We loved the way Armaan spoke about people neglecting theirr near and dear ones in the mechanical life today and that resulting in too many cases of depression. It's a fact. As an after thought she added "And after I've seen how he takes care of his own family, I feel he was the right person to talk about that."

A: Maa now you are embarrassing me. I'm only doing what any father or any husband would do.

S: Armaan, going back to that interview, I totally agree with whatever you said. There's a misapprehension in people's mind that it's shameful to seek psychiatric help. Because of the stress level in life these days, many are not able to cope up. People need to understand that timely help from a psychiatrist, along with family support, can help a person get back to his normal self.

A: You are right papa. That's the message I wanted to give in that interview. 'Don't hesitate to consult a psychiatrist when things get out of hand.' We've organized a conference for family physicians too, to instruct them as to what they need to look out for. Since they are usually the first ones whom the patients consult.

S: You are absolutely right. Achcha, main soch raha tha, I should send two interns from Sanjeevani to train at MSHC. We also get a lot of cases of substance abuse you know. They'll learn how to handle such cases.Will MSHC accept them?

A: Kal aap mere saath chaliye, we'll talk to Dr. Mohan about this. I don't think he'll have any objections.

"Yes, that'll be perfect." Said Dr.Shashank as patted Armaan's back.

Seeing Riddhima beam, Padma remarked "Aap taarif Armaan ki kar rahe hain, aur chehra iska khil raha hain." When Riddhima blushed and said "Maa aap kyon mujhe tease kar rahi ho?" Padma replied "Nahi beta, tumhare aapas ka pyaar dekh kar mujhe bahut khushi hoti hai. Darti hoon kahin meri hi nazar na lag jaaye." Mother and daughter once againg got into a hug.

Hearing Ani cry, Armaan got up to see what it was. "Akka must be cleaning his nose and ears after his bath. He doesn't like that, that's why he's crying" Riddhima explained. Armaan came back carrying the crying baby in his arms and talking to him. "Shonu ko bhook lagi hai? Ok, ok athai abhi mum mum laati hai." Then he shouted aloud mimicking Ani, "Athai jaldi mum mum lao, mujhe bahut bhook lagi hai."

When akka brought the food, he made him sit on his lap and started feeding him. But the little one wanted to eat by himself. So he snatched the spoon from his dad's hand. After several tries he managed to pick the food with the spoon and when he took it to his mouth, it fell down halfway through. So he got very frustrated and threw away the spoon. Then he attacked the food with his hands and Armaan let him. Padma was surprised to see, neither Riddhima nor Armaan tried to stop him from doing so.

Armaan only signalled akka to get another spoon. And when she did, he picked up the dal and rice with the spoon and fed Ani, in between his efforts to feed himself. This way his stomach was also getting filled and the child was also enjoying himself. Both the gradparents couldn't help admiring the parenting tactics of the Malliks without saying anything negative to the child, like - "Don't put your hand in it', "you'll spill the food", "you'll get yourself dirty and you've just had a bath."

By the time the little one's lunch was over not only his own clothes but even Armaan's were covered with rice and dal. Akka took him away to be cleant and to be put to sleep, as it was time for his nap. As the adults were having lunch, Riddhima said "Let's go to Devikulam this afternoon. You know mama the Goddess there is very powerful."

Dr. Shashank started laughing and asked "When did you start believing in such things, Riddhima?"

Riddhima was offended "Papa please don't ridicule such things. That day when Armaan met with the accident, anything worse could have happened. The plane could have banged into the sidewall or worse still burst into flames. Something prevented that from happening na? Call it destiny, fate or God. For me it is this Devi who saved my Armaan and my Akshu. I'm terrified to even think 'what if something had happened to them.' If you do not wish to visit it's fine or else you can watch some match on the TV."

S: I'm sorry I didn't mean to hurt your feelings.

R: I've been wanting to go and offer thanksgiving there. But haven't been able to. So I thought we could all go there.

P: Of course Riddhima, hum sab zaroor chalenge.

As they entered the temple, the ancient surroundings and the serenity of the temple was very calming. Everything so silent and the smell of the oil lamps and incense sticks automatically aroused one's spiritual feelings. Riddhima told the priest to offer a special thanksgiving pooja, which he did.

After the pooja he put the kumkum container in front of Armaan asking him to fill her maang and gave a string of flowers to be put in her hair. Then seeing the older couple he asked them also to do likewise.

After coming out even Dr. Shashank agreed "It's really very soothing to the mind. They have still maintained the temple in all its antiquity."

P: Sach dil ko sukoon mil gaya yahan aakar. The surroundings are also so beautiful.

Then all of them went to the lake. Akshat and Ani were feeding puffed rice (Kurmura) to the fish. Armaan said "Chalo Riddhima let's have a walk around." Before the others could react he said "We'll be back in 10 – 15 minutes." And just pulled Riddhima up and moved, not giving her a chance to speak. Shashank and Padma nodded and looked at each other with a smile.

When they were out of ear shot, Riddhima asked "Why the hurry?" Putting his arm around her waist and bending towards her he asked "Remember the last time we came here?" "Of course, I do" was her reply.

A:I want to spend 10 minutes with you walking around like we did on that day. Can we?

She also remembered those few romantic minutes they had shared and nodded. Holding hands, they traced the same path and went and sat on that same bench. His arms around her waist, her head against his shoulder, just absorbing the serene beauty of nature. When the ten minutes were up they walked back to join the others.

The week flew by and soon it was time for the Guptas to return to Mumbai. Armaan was pleased to see that Riddhima was more comfortable with her parents now. However good her husband is, a good relationship with her parents and siblings is very important for every woman. One shouldn't ever forget that parents give us life and then give their life for bringing us up in the best possible way.

On the last day as they sat talking Dr. Shashank said "We are planning to have a grand opening ceremony for the upgraded Sanjeevani. It'll be around Diwali. It will give us immense pleasure if you all could come over for that." Armaan immediately replied "Of course Papa. We'll surely make it. Just let us know the dates. By then Riddhima's clinic will also be over."

R: Yes, Jyoti is planning to comeback on Dusshera day.

P: Ok that's good. But this time make it a longer trip.

R: That may not be possible maa, because Akshat doesn't have much leave during Diwali, only a couple of days.

A: Anyways let's see how best we can manage that. But we surely will be there for the ceremony.

All of them went to drop them at the airport. That's why they had booked their tickets for Sunday. There were tears in everyone's eyes, not only the ladies but even the gents. After a lot of hugging and kissing they bid them bye and moved to the check-in counter. Suddenly Ani called out "nanananana" loudly, making them stop and turn back. Then looking at them he shook his head vigorously as if asking them not to go. They couldn't help coming back and kissing him again.

Through his tears Dr. Shashank said to this wife, "itne dinon se usey nanu, nani bulwa rahe the, par usne kabhi nahi bola. Aur jab nikal rahein hai to humey awaaz dekar bula raha hai." As she kissed him Padma said "hum phir aayenge bachche. Tum log ab Mumbai aana." They kept waving to each other till they finally disappeared into the security check booth.

Part 110

The next day the men had a nice early morning jog. On their way back they went to a Kerala Ayurvedic Massage Parlour, where Abhi and Rahul made an appointment for a massage in the afternoon. Armaan couldn't because of his injury.

Ra: Kyon na hum apne ladies ke liye bhi appointment kar le. It'll be a surprise for them. What say?

A: I think it's a good idea. Sunday dopehar ke liye kar lete hain.

Ra: Why Sunday? Why not tomorrow?

A: It is the second Sunday of May, it's 'Mother's Day'.

Ab: Mother's day ke liye we'll have a picnic or let them go for a movie or something.

A: Maybe they would prefer going to beauty parlour rather than a massage parlour.

Ra: ek kaam karte hain, tomorrow let them have a massage, Saturday appointment with the beautician and Sunday movie.

A: That'll be fantastic. We'll keep everything a surprise for them.

Ab: Nahi yaar baaki sab to theek hai, par massage ke liye ek baar pooch lete hai.

Ra: Theek hai pooch lete hain.

Ab: Ek 'mens day out' bhi hona chahiye.

A: Ok fine, I'll take you to the club this evening. I'll talk to Riddhima's beautician from her cell and make the appointment for Saturday also.

Ra: Lekin will the ladies allow us to go to the club without them?

Ab: Kuch idea sochna padega.

When they got home the ladies were out in the lawn having tea and the children were playing. This is how they found Ani among the pumpkins that the gardener had cut from their vegetable garden, to be sent with akka to her neighbours, who relished them.

Akshat was sitting with a sad face. Armaan noticed it and asked "kya hua beta? Tum itne sad kyon ho?"

Ak: Aap log sab maze karoge aur sirf mujhe hi school jaana hai.

A: Tum school se lautne tak hum kahin nahin jayenge. Bus doctor ke paas jaakar mera bandage nikalwana hai. Shyam ko hum ghoomne jayenge. Aur tumhe to bus sirf do din school jana hai, aaj aur kal . Phir Saturday se tumhari bhi summer vacation start ho jayegi.

Hearing his dad Akshat cheered up a bit. To make him happier Armaan said, "tum school ke liye tayyar ho jao main aur rohan tumhe drop karne chalenge." Rohan also became happy hearing that. He was excited to see Akshat's school. So both the boys ran indoors, talking among themselves.

A: Riddhima, did Bashir call?

R: No, I was thinking of calling and finding out when they were coming.

A: Yes, do that. And I've to go to the orthopedic today to remove the bandage.

R: Ya, I remember. The appointment is at 10 o'clock na? We'll leave at 9.30.

Ra: Don't bother Riddhima, I'll go with him. We couldn't come and help you when he was hospitalized. At least let us help now.

R: Ok fine. Let's go and freshen up. Then you can have your breakfast and leave.

When they were in their room Riddhima helped Armaan with his shave and bath. During that he told her that Abhi and Rahul wanted to have a Kerala Ayurvedic massage that afternoon and also enquired if the ladies would be interested. She said she would ask Nikki and Muskan and let him know. Then he told her about Abhi and Rahul wanting a men's day out, so he was planning to take them to the club that evening. He enquired if it was ok with her. When she said "ok, lekin zyaada mat peena."

A: I'll try to avoid drinks but the others may not agree.

R: It's ok once in a way.

Hesitatingly he said, "But they are afraid that Nikki and Muskaan might not agree to the men outing by themselves." Pulling his cheek she said, "Don't worry main un logonko aur bachchonko Blossom International park le jaoongi. Phir tumlog chale jaana.

A: Thank you sweetheart. You are so understanding.

R: I know.

A: I love you.

R: Ab itna maska lagane ki koi zaroorat nahi. Jao, jao, aish karo, tum bhi kya yaad rakhoge.

A: Come on Riddhima, you surely don't think I said that to butter you up?

Looking at his sad face, she felt sorry for him. So she stopped buttoning his shirt, put her arm around his neck, pulled his head down, said "I love you too" and kissed him on his lips. Right then Akshat and Rohan dashed in to say that they were ready. Akshat had seen them in that pose several times, so he didn't react. He knew hearing him, they would move apart. But Rohan couldn't control his excitement. So he ran outside where all wer gathered in the hall, shouting "Riddhima aunty ne Armaan uncle ko "I love you kaha" aur kissy kar rahe hain."

Rahul pulled him and said, "Abbey chup kar". But Rohan went on "Main jhoot nahi bol raha hoon, aap chahe to Akshat se pooch lo." At that everyone burst laughing. Armaan came out of the room along with Akshat while Riddhima just rushed into the washroom, as she knew her friends would tease her solid.

Rahul came up to him and whispered in his ears, "Yaar bachchon ke saamne to kuch sharm kar." Armaan looked him in the eye and boldly asked "Kyon sharm karoon? It's no crime for children to see their parents hugging or kissing lightly Even very young children pick up on the good feelings attached to their parents' natural affectionate touches and embraces.. On the contrary it's very comforting for them to know that Mom and Dad care about each other so much. It helps kids have a sense of security and learn appropriate ways to express affection in their own relationships. Even very young children pick up on the good feelings attached to their parents' natural affectionate touches and embraces."

Four pairs of eyes looked at him trying to digest his reply. Anyone else in his place might have been embarrassed, they thought, but not Armaan. He had an explanation for everything.

"Chalo driverji, pehle nashta karte hain, phir Akshat ko school chodna hai aur wahin se hospital chalte hai. On the way we have to stop at the market, kaka has asked for some vegetables, masala etc." Armaan called out to Rahul. All of them proceeded towards the dining room and were glad to see steaming hot idlis, medu vada, drumstick Sambhar and puttu-kadlai. (a special keralite breakfast of steamed rice flour with salt and coconut scrapings with chana gravy as accompaniment). As all of them served themselves, Muskaan asked "Yeh Ridzi kahan reha gayi?"

Ak: Mama nahane gayi hai. Main unko bulata hoon.

He ran in and banged on the washroom door to tell his mama that all of them were waiting for her at the breakfast table.

R: Tum log start karo main aa rahi hoon. Nahi to tumhe school ke liye late ho jaayega.

Akshat conveyed the message and all of them started with their breakfast. Akka walked with Ani twisting out of her arms, crying. When Armaan enquired what was the matter she explained that he was not prepared to be seperated from the dogs. So tried to feed him idli as he played with them, but he didn't want to eat the idli. He wanted to eat the biscuits the dogs were eating.

Riddhima walked in hearing the last part of the conversation and burst out laughing. Everyone including akka turned towards her. She picked up Ani and came to the table saying, "Like father, like son," a nd sat on the empty chair next to Armaan. When all of them including Armaan looked puzzled she narrated the Lonavala incident when Armaan had picked up and eaten some dog biscuits. The dogs had chased him and he had climbed up the tree to escape from them. All of them were holding their sides and laughing uncontrollably.

Armaan, the nautankibaaz, made a sad face and said "Dekha Ani beta sab log hamara mazak uda rahe hain. Humse by mistake galti ho gayi na?" Ani was looking at everybody strangely wondering why they were laughing so much. Then he also started laughing with them. Seeing that Rahul commented "Armaan, your son is more sporting than you. Seeing he's also laughing." Riddhima was feeding Ani and herself simultaneously and automatically her hand went towards Armaan's mouth though he was eating with a spoon with his left hand. He opened his mouth took the piece of vada and gently bit her hand. When she jerked it out of his mouth saying "Ah", he whispered that's for teasing me so much in front of my friends.

This didn't go unnoticed by Abhi abd Nikki who were sitting right opposite them. They looked at each other and smiled. Riddhima twitched her lips and whispered back "Theek hai phir tum khud kha lo. I'm not going to feed you." Before he could reply she picked up Ani and the plate, and walked towards the window to feed him showing him the birds outside. After Kaka served the tea and coffee Rahul looked at Armaan and asked "chale." Armaan had stopped eating and was looking in Riddhima's direction, sorry for having made her angry. Hearing Rahul, he turned towards him and picking the coffee said "haan."

A: Akshat, apna tiffin lelo. Nashta ho gaya ho to doodh peelo aur shoes pehenlo.

Ra: Rohan tum bhi chal rahe ho na? Chalo tum bhi doodh peelo.

Ro: Papa, maine bahut kha liya, doodh nahin peeoonga.

Ak: Agar doodh nahi peeoge to strong nahi ban paoge. Phir baar baar bimaar hote rahoge. Tumm bimaar hina chahte ho kya?

Ro: Nahi par

Ak: chalo dekhte hain hum dono mein kaun first finish karta hai.

While everyone at the table was watching how akshat was manipulating Rohan to drink the milk, Armaan slipped away and went to Riddhima. Standing behind her, he put his arm around her waist. When she drew in her breath in surprise, he asked "Mujse naraaz ho? Sorry." Riddhima pretended to be angry and said "Ani apne dad se kaho bhai ko school ke liye late ho rahi hai, unhe abhi nikalna chahiye." Armaan retorted "Ani apni mama se kaho, jab tak woh humey maaf karke pa nahi karegi hum kahin nahi jaayenge. Hospital bhi nahi." Hearing the word pa Ani bent towards Armaan with his mouth open to kiss him. Armaan bent towards him and took the kiss. Riddhima left Ani with his dad and moved to keep the plate and went into their room to wash her hands. Armaan left Ani on the floor and quietly followed her.

Ani crawled and made his way to the table where Akshat and Rohan were having a milk drinking race.

M: He's learned all Armaan's tactics to convince people.

Ra: Absolutely.

In their Armaan closed the door and as Riddhima came out of the washroom wiping her hands, caught hold of her with one arm and said "Please Riddhima speak to me. When she didn't reply but kept looking down, he pulled her chin up and made her look into his eyes. Seeing his eyes filled with tears, she was shocked. "Armaan main to sirf jhoot moot ka gussa kar rahi thi," she said holding his face in her palms. "Tum mujse jhoot moot ka gussa bhi mat karo. I don't like it," he said hugging her. She put her arms around his waist and hugging him tight said "ok I won't".

They stood like this for a minute and by then both were in a better mood. She slowly moved away from him and kissing his cheek said "jao, nahi to Akshat ko school ke liye der ho jaayega."

Part 118

And when the valet opened the doors the ladies nearly dropped dead seeing their husbands. Each one looked like a prince, in a new outfit and hairstyling. "Welcome sweetheart," Armaan invited Riddhima as she stepped out opening his arms for a hug.

She sure did oblige him. "You look gorgeous" he complimented, to which she replied smiling and blushing, "you too."

A: This dress suits you very well and so does the hairstyle.

R: Devi did the hairstyle. I felt it too stylish but everyone insisted that it suited me, so I let it be.

Then extending his arm towards akka took Ani in his arms and kissed him, making the little one return the same with a wet 'pa'. Then he turned around to see Akshat climb out of the car with his friend. "Hello boys" he greeted them and hugged them.

The other ladies were greeted by their husbands too.

Everyone was awestruck by the beauty of the place. Armaan went and hugged Kaka and Akka who were hovering in the background. As he ushered all of them in, he had his free arm around his sweetheart's waist, and whispered in her ears, "Personally I would have preferred you in a saree, so that I can feel your silky skin in my palms, but getting the blouse ready in such short notice was a problem. Hence I had to opt for the chudidaar kameez."

"Believe me I was also surprised to see this and not a saree. I know very well how your mind works Dr. Mallik." She whispered back.

"Oh, really? I didn't know you were a mindreader besides being a doctor, Mrs. Mallik" was his rejoinder.

Both were smiling as they were lead to a beautifully decorated room, with balloons and plenty of toys. The toys were so fascinating that the boys were captivated by them. Akka made Ani sit on a rocking horse, while the elder boys put on the cowboy hats and started shooting at each other with the toy guns, that made funny noises and splashed colorful lights. Akshita was blissfully asleep in her crib which was kept at the far end of the room, so that the sounds didn't disturb her.

The manager then led the couples to another room which had red cinnamon fragrance candles lining the side walls.

A rose bowl was placed as a centrepiece on the dining table and flower shaped candles were also floating in it. Red, white and pink rose petals were strewn on the table. The lights were turned down and romantic music was playing in the background. This provided a perfect romantic atmosphere and the room smelt heavenly too. The other end of the room offered space for dancing. A slow number was being played and the dim lighting offered enough privacy to each couple. The four males requested their partners to join them on the dance floor.

As they danced Riddhima was spell bound by the ambience that had been created. "Armaan it's all so beautiful. How did you manage to make such amazing arrangements in such a short time?" she whispered looking deep into his eyes. "Anything for my love. As they say, where there's a will there's a way," he replied without breaking the eyelock.

The smell of his cologne was intoxicating, mesmerized by it she moved closer to him and put her head on his shoulder. Her nose nuzzled against his neck and her hand wandered from his shoulder to his hair, combing through it. When the music stopped, she lifted her head, gazing into his eyes, she pulled out her other hand from his and put it on his cheek. He turned his head and kissed her palm.

She blushed realizing what she was doing and looked around to see if anyone had noticed what had been going on between them. But couldn't spot anyone as the lights were so dim. She tried to move back a little, but he held her tight and pleaded with his eyes that she shouldn't move away. The slow music had changed to a fast number but the Mallik couple were in a world of their own.

Rahul and Muskaan sat down at the table after dancing the first dance with their backs towards the dance floor. Rahul had discarded his coat and they were holding hands, as they used to in the early months of their marriage, when their petty quarrels seemed to have disappeared all of a sudden. It was a time when they couldn't stay away from each other even for a few minutes.

Both got nostalgic and talked about how they had become so obsessed with starting their own hospital that they had slowly moved apart. Rohan's arrival added to the distance. Between Rohan, the house and her profession, Muskaan found no time for Rahul. While Rahul's day started and ended with his new hospital. Muskaan commented on how Riddhima and Armaan still managed to have special time for themselves, inspite of two kids and all other preoccupations.

As Devi got tired easily and the fragrance was suffocating her, Bashir took her for a stroll in the garden. They sat near the fountain and started talking of their life when they had stepped out of India. Their friends in Dubai who had taken the place of the family, that they missed so much. And now in a matter of few days this marvellous couple, Armaan and Riddhima, had become so close to them. Not only that their friend circle had widened, by getting close to this couple's friends, who were also some wonderful human beings. They felt blessed and thanked God for bringing such wonderful people into their lives.

Abhi and Nikki dropped the awkwardness that had cropped between them in the last few months and started dancing. After the slow number some fast numbers were played. Both of them were crazy about dancing and enjoyed it to the maximum limit, that evening.

When they came and sat at the table after a few dances, the other couples were also there. Armaan had gone to fetch the kids and the elders for dinner. Ani refused to get off the rocking horse.

Armaan went near Ani and said "Tumhe to utharna nahi hai na. Tum khelo. Main Angel ko godi karoonga, usey pa karoonga, bye." Akshat and Rohan couldn't help giggling. But when two big fat tear drops rolled down his son's eyes, Armaan couldn't tolerate it. He knelt down at once and wiped his tears. Immediately two chubby arms, were wrapped around his neck. He also hugged him with his free arm and showered him with kisses. When he tried to pick him up with his free arm, Nikki came forward and took Akshita from him, so that he could pick up Ani.

Armaan picked up Ani and hugged him tight. Then touching his tummy asked, "Bukku lagi hai? Mumum khayega?" Ani nodded his head vigorously in assent. He had been fed his dinner before leaving from home but after so much of horse riding he was hungry again. All of them smiled at his antics and proceeded towards the dinner table.

All of them sat around the table. Ani had a special high chair place between his mama and dad. Armaan looked towards one of the waiters and nodded. The song 'Salam-e-ishq' star on the ed playing on music system. Armaan at once got up and pulled Muskaan and Rahul also on the dance floor. They danced the same steps they had at Sapna's wedding, to refresh old memories. Including the part where Rahul comes between Armaan and Riddhima.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFk0IDihvi8

Then they burst laughing and returned to their seats. Armaan went on to explain about Rahul being the 'kabab mein haddi' in their love story and also the misunderstanding of Muskaan's parents. At the end of it all of them were roaring with laughter.

Part 125

As they sat at the dining table the door bell rang. Saying "main dekhta hoon," Akshat ran towards the door. The little one had become hundred times more naughtier in the past week. He had even won over his strict nanu's heart, who now made him sit atop the dining table and let him do as he pleased. When he put his hand forward to pull the dal spoon, Riddhima shouted "Papa aap ne isey bahut deel de rakha hai. Woh kisisiki nahi sunta. Aap please usey neeche utardo."

Akshat opened the door, after struggling a bit, and shrieked aloud "dad!" Riddhima whose back was to the door, put down the plate she was holding with a bang and turned around. Armaan was standing at the door with his laptop on one shoulder, and his other arm around Akshat and kissing him. Riddhima stood up and ran to him and without asking anything just gave him a tight hug. He too hugged her, without even removing the laptop bag from his shoulder. Everyone was admiring this family who exhitbited their affection for each other so openly.

But the member who was left behind couldn't stand it. He started screaming "dadada" and his nanu put him down on the floor, to see what he would do. He crawled in jet speed and stood up holding his dad's legs and raised his arms up calling "dadada". Armaan smiled down at him, when Padma intervened, "Arrey mere jamaai ko ander to aaney do, uska samaan to le lo." Hearing her maa, Riddhima moved a little away. Armaan put the bag from his shoulder down and picking up the little one gave him a kiss, which was promptly returned.

Seeing his mother-in-law come forward, he bent down to take her blessings saying, "please aap log khana chodkar mat uthiye."

P: Hum bus baithe hi the. Tum bhi fresh hokar aa jao.

A: Maa main flight mein kha chukka hoon.

P: Flight ka khana bhi koi khana hota hai. Chalo mooh haat dhokar aao.

R: Achanak kaise aana hua? Kuch bataya bhi nahi.

"Tum logon ko surprise dena tha." He smiled and winked at her, as he handed Ani to her. When he picked up his bag and was about to go upstairs, Padma stopped saying. "Bag baad mein le jaana, ab neeche ki guest room mein he wash kar lena." Riddhima was about to follow Armaan but her mother called out to her and taking Ani from her, said, "Beta, jaakar do chaar rotiyaan aur banalo." She knew Armaan and Riddhima were dying to get a private moment and purposely said so, to tease them. So Armaan walked into the guest room and Riddhima into the kitchen.

When Padma went and put Ani again on the table, Anjie shook her head and whispered, "Maa aap bhi na kuch kum nahi ho. Jaan bhuj kar in love birds ko thadpa rahi ho."

"Sabr ka phal meetha hota hai," was Padma's reply.

At that, all of them started laughing.

An: Looking at their behaviour one would think they are newly weds, not parents of two kids.

P: Even if they have such a big son, they definitely are newly weds, they have been married for just over a year na?

Armaan and Riddhima entered almost at the same time. Armaan pulled out a chair for Riddhima and sat next to her.

An: Arrey Riddhima, come here na, your plate is already served here.

A: Woh plate yahan pass kardo.

Akshat immediately came and sat on his dad's lap asking him to feed him. Armaan started doing so and with his other hand, held Riddhima's right hand under the table. Riddhima indicated to him with her eyes, to leave her hand but he ignored it. (The whole thing didn't go unnoticed by Anjie.) Riddhima was getting irritated, how would she eat? And if she tried eating with her left hand everyone would notice it and tease her. She was wondering what to do when Armaan held a morsel in front of her mouth saying "Chalo tum dono ko main hi khila deta hoon." Hearing that all of them turned towards her and smiled, while she turned crimson.

After the eating and feeding session was over, though the couple were just dying to escape to their room, the others were bent on torturing them. The men settled on the sofa while the women cleared the table.

S: So Armaan, to whom do we owe the honour of this sudden visit?

A: Papa, Riddhima had a tough time with Ani while coming over here, so I thought it would be better if I came to fetch them. I knew with Sanjeevani undergoing a make-over, none of you would be able to accompany her. I couldn't inform you all about my coming because my ticket wasn't confirmed till the end moment. Then I thought it better to surprise everyone.

When the women finished their work and came out, Riddhima picked up Ani saying "Main jaakar isey sulati hoon" and also called out to Akshat. But he said he would play with Anshul and sleep with him. Then she turned to Armaan and said "Tum bhi thode der mein aa jao. Thak gaye hoge."

Atul decided to join the ladies in teasing them, so he said "Arrey flight se aane mein kya thakawat? Let's catch up with the latest gossip. Tomorrow me and Anjali have to drop by at Sanjeevani and in the afternoon you people will leave. So we won't get time to talk tomorrow."

An: He can even sleep till late in the morning. He doesn't have to go anywhere.

Riddhima came near Armaan and on the pretext of picking up Ani's toys made some signs to Armaan with her eyes and left. Armaan answered patiently to all their queries and they also spoke about what machines they planned to import for Sanjeevani, etc..But soon he began to get restless because he knew that Riddhima was waiting for him and every minute's delay was going to cost him dearly. He tried to drop hints by yawning, stretching himself etc., but no one paid heed. Finally by the time they dispersed it was past midnight.

The boys had earlier gone to sleep with their nana and nani. The minute Anjie and Atul got up, Armaan dashed upstairs with his bags. Unfortunately Riddhima was asleep with a frown on her face. He was doomed. The frown showed how irritated she must have been, before she fell asleep.

He showered and quietly went and lay down beside her. He kissed her lips softly, not wanting to wake her. Then putting the errant flicks, which were covering her face, behind her ears, he kissed her forehead and cheeks whispering "I missed you terribly sweetheart." But what he didn't expect was the drawling voice complaining "isliye upar aate aate itni der kardi?" He smiled at that, kissed her thoroughly and said "Palakon Ke Piichhe Se Kyaa Tumane Kah Daalaa
Phir Se To Faramaanaa."

M: Palakon Ke Piichhe Se Kyaa Tumane Kah Daalaa
Phir Se To Faramaanaa

F: Nainon Ne Sapanon Ki Mahafil Sajaai Hai Tum Bhi Zaruur Aanaa
M: Palakon Ke Piichhe Se Kyaa Tumane Kah Daalaa
Phir Se To Faramaanaa

M: Taubaa Meri Taubaa
Mushkil Thaa Ek To Pahale Hi Dil Kaa Bahalanaa
Aafat Phir Usape Lat Men Tumhaaraa
Mukhadaa Chhupaa Ke Chalanaa ) - 2
F: Aise Na Bolo Pad Jaae Mujhako, Sharamaanaa
M: Palakon Ke Piichhe Se

F: Duniyaa Naa Dekhe Dhadake Meraa Man Rastaa Sajan Meraa Chhodo
Tan Tharatharaae Ungali Hamaari Dekho

Piyaa Na Marodo )- 2
M: Yuun Naa Sataao Mujhako Banaake, Divaanaa
Palakon Ke Pichhe Se

M: bach Bach Ke Hamase O Matavaali Hai Ye Kahaan Kaa Iraadaa
Naazuk Labon Se Phir Karatii Jaao
Milane Kaa Koi Vaadaa )- 2
F: Dil Ye Meraa Ghar Hai Tumhaaraa, Aa Jaanaa

M: Palakon Ke Pichhe Se

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73cVBWIhrGg

(Actually this vm is my tribute to DMG, bidding it goodbye. It's thanks to DMG that I started writing this ff and got a chance to tap a talent which I never knew I had. This is first ever writing I have done besides the essay writing as a student.)

As Padma said the 'intezaar ka phal' was indeed very sweet. As they lay in each others arms in the aftermath of their love making, Riddhima asked "Tell me the truth. What was the reason for your coming to Mumbai today?"

"There's not one but several reasons. First and foremost I missed you all, especially you, very much." Said Armaan punctuating it with a kiss and continued "Couldn't wait even for a day more. Secondly I thought I could meet my in-laws and pay my respects to them. Thirdly I wanted to see what changes have taken place at Sanjeevani. ."

R: Armaan these may be the other reasons for your visit but not the main one. I know what that is. You were worried that Ani would trouble me on the flight again and you didn't want me to face it alone. Right?

A: Actually yes. When you told me how he had cried and not slept during the flight, how he had wanted crawl about everywhere, I decided you are not flying back alone. With so much work in the hospital, I wasn't sure if I would be able to make it, that's why I didn't mention it to you.

When she she moved closer to him to kiss him she noticed that he winced. Then adjusting himself he said "Riddhima come over this side na." She bent over the other side, picked up her night dress and wore it. As she got off the bed he asked, "Riddhima, where are you going? I only asked you to come to the other side." Without answering him Riddhima went into the washroom. After a few minutes, she returned with wet towel in her hand. She came and tied it around Armaan's right shoulder, the one that had dislocated. "Aah!" shouted Armaan feeling the heat from the towel, but soon felt the warmth seeping in and the pain slowly vanishing.

R: Feeling better?

A: How did you know my shoulder was paining?

R: Just like you knew I was tensed about making another trip alone with Ani. Armaan this is what endears you to me most. Your concern for me overpowers your own comfort. Didn't you even think how much tiring this trip will be for you? You've go back to duty on Monday morning and again this whole week you'll have to work extra hours too.

A: Why do I have to worry about that? You are there to worry about me na?

"Armaan tum bhi na, chalo bahut masti hogayi. Ab chup chaap so jao." She said as she removed the towel from his shoulder and took it to the washroom. She came back and lay down beside him on the other side, as he had asked her to. Soon both of them were in their dream world.

Hi friends,

I'm sure you are all surprised to see this update because it was not due today. But since I'd finished writing it I thought I'd post it. I dedicate this part to zephyrr who has been the inspiration for me to write a longer part and post it early.

love, ssh57

Part 129

Armaan picked up one plate and handing it to his son said "Tum jaakar usey khilado." Very timidly the little boy asked "agar mana kar diya to?" "Woh tumhe kabhi mana nahi kar sakti. She loves you the most," Armaan assured him but Akshat shook his head saying "Nahi, aap khilado, she loves you the most."

A: How can you say that? I've been with her for just 1 year, you've been with her for 8 years. She's loved you for eight years. To tumse hi zyaada pyaar karti hai na?

When he saw the bright smile and sparkle in his first born's eyes, he knew he had achieved what he wanted to. Akshat ran in and sitting next to his mama on the bed said, "Mama aap kaam karte karte apna mooh kholo, main aap ko khilate jaoonga." Once again she felt irritated, why hadn't he come to feed her? That's what she had expected. She would see to him later, but she didn't want to disappoint her darling child. "Tumne kha liya?" she asked him. When he shook his head, she pushed the laptop away and pulled him onto her lap. Kissing him she said "I know, Iss ghar mein tum hi mujse sabse jyaada pyaar karte ho, isliye mere liye breakfast laye ho."

Ak: nahi mama, dad ne hi''.

R: Unke baare mein baat bhi mat karo mujse. Chalo tum mujhe khilao, aur main tumhe khilati hoon.

Someone was watching all this hiding behind the door. "Yess" Riddhima had reacted exactly as he wanted her to. If he had told her what he had read in Akshat's diary, the little boy, who was shrewd enough, would have understood that his mama was being extra sweet to him. This came out very naturally. With a satisfied smile Armaan went to share his breakfast with his younger son.

The whole morning Armaan played with the children and saw to it that they didn't disturb her. But instead of feeling relieved, she felt very left out. So at lunchtime when Armaan came and said "Please humare saath lunch to karne chalo", she was pleased, but put on fake anger and tried to ignore him. When he held his ears and mouthed "I'm sorry" she couldn't ignore him anymore. "Pehle kyon nahi aaye mujhe manane, apne bete ko bhej diya," she complained. "I have a very valid reason which I'll tell you later, par abhi chalo na? Tumhare begair kuch achcha nahi lagta." That was her undoing, how could he refuse him when he said such chweet things? But before she could get up, Akshat dashed in.

A: Dekho na beta, meri baat nahi maan rahi hai. Tum hi isey mana sakte ho.

When she looked up at him puzzled, he conveyed to her with his eyes that she should fall in with his plans. "Mama please chalo na," Akshat pulled her by her arms.

R: Theek hai, mujhe computer shut down to karne do.

AK: Aap chaliye dad kar denge.

He smiled victoriously at his dad, as he left the room, pulling his mama's arm, proud that he had achieved what his dad couldn't. Armaan was very pleased with himself as he shut down the computer and followed them. The atmosphere at the dining table was back to normal.

When Armaan started making small pieces of the roti, Riddhima wondered why he was doing so. And when he started picking them up with a spoon using his left hand, she was even more puzzled. But when she felt him clasp he left hand which was on her lap, she understood the reason and smiled to herself. Normally Akshat would have noticed it and questioned his dad about it. But today he was basking in the glory of the feeling, that his mama loved him the most. He was unaware of what was happening around him. Kaka and akka had long since learnt to ignore such things. When she turned her hand and held his in a proper grip his eyes shone brighter.

He's such a kid she thought. Who could remain angry with him for long?

By afternoon she had completed her assignment. When she announced about the same to them, Akshat urged his dad "aaj shaam ko kahin bahar chalte hain na, please?"

Armaan readily agreed and by 5 pm all of them had piled into the car. When he asked "kahan jaana hai?" Akshat leaned forward and whispered something into his ears. When Riddhima questioned them "Yeh baap bete ke beech kya khusur phusur chal raha hai?" Akshat replied "Aap ke liye surprise hai." She smiled as she thought that the nautankbaazi of the other 2 males was rubbing onto this seedha sada boy also.

Soon Armaan drove into Pothamedu and cut off the engine. Riddhima got out and was awestruck by it, as always. Akshat came and held her hand and they slowly walked forward. Meanwhile Armaan picked Ani out of the car seat and put him in the pram. Ani was excited and clapping his hands as he pushed him towards the other two. Armaan went close to her, put his arms around her shoulder and she leant her head against his shoulder.

After some time, they sat down on a rocky patch, spreading the mat Armaan had got from the car. As they sat huddled together admiring he serene beauty, Akshat said "Agar hum Mumbai chale gaye to aap yeh sab bahut miss karogi." She laughed aloud at that and ruffling his hair said "lagta hai tere dad aur bhai ne tujhe nautankbaazi mein training di hai. Yehi jatane ke liye, you asked your dad to bring us here na? Theek hai agar tum log nahi chahte to hum Mumbai nahi jaayenge."

Armaan immediately drew her close and very lovingly said "Riddhima I'm not against shifting to Mumbai. I'm only saying let's not do it now. Let's wait for a year or two, you complete your post graduation, Ani will also be bigger, at that stage let's reconsider it. Ok?

Riddhima just smiled at them and said "When two Malliks are set to charm someone, how can that person escape? Ok, as you wish. Main kal papa se baat karke, mana kardoongi." Both of them said "Yess" and kissed her.

Ak: Mama main koi nautanki nahi kar raha tha. Aap bahut kaam karke thakh gayi hogi na? To maine socha aap yahan aakar bahut happy ho jaati ho, isliye maine dad ko yahan laane ke liye kaha.

She hugged him and kissing him said, "I was just teasing you beta, I know tum in dono jaise nahi ho," just to tease Armaan. And as expected, he immediately protested asking "Matlab?"Seeing him perturbed Riddhima purposely pulled Akshat on her lap and putting her chin on his head said "Matlab yeh ke tum dono naatakbaaz ho aur my shona beta loves me the most." (Although Armaan had not planned this, things seemed to be going in Akshat's favour on their own.)

Hearing her say that Armaan immediately said "Chalo Ani, let's go from here, they don't love us." As he was about to stand up, Riddhima pulled him and said "Dekha abhi bhi wahi kar rahe ho, nautanki." Then hugging him with her other arm said, "I live only for you three. Without you, mere zindagi mein kuch bhi nahi hai." And all three of them got into a hug.

Feeling very left out the little one started wriggling out of the pram and shouting. Armaan untied the belt and pulled him on his lap. Again all four of them got into a hug and the little one was now all smiles giving each of them 'pa'.

Suddenly the rain came pouring down, without any warning. All of them rushed towards the car and were drenched by the time they could get in. Akshat wanted to play in the rain as they were wet anyways. But Riddhima said a strict "no" which disappointed him. "Dad ne bataya aap ko bhi baarish mein khelna achcha lagta hai. Phir aap mujhe kyon mana kar rahi ho?" he asked with a sad pout.

R: Akshat if we were in Mumbai, I would let you get wet as the climate is not cold there. But here it's too cold and you'll fall sick.

He had no counter arguments for that, so kept sulking. To manao him Armaan said he would take them to the ice cream parlour. But Riddhima didn't agree to that either. She started yelling at Armaan "Tum pagal to nahi ho gaye ho? Lagta hai bachchon ko bimaar karne ki poori tayyari kar rakhi hai tumne. Haan tumhe kya farak padta hai? Tum to hospital chale jaoge, mujhe hi inki dekhbaal karni hai." So that idea was also dropped. Seeing all their sad faces, she herself came up with a solution.

R: Humlog pehle ghar chalke, kapde badalte hain, aur pizza-hut se pizza mangate hain. Ok?

Akshat immediately shouted "yess" and the whole atmosphere again became a happy one.

Next day after Armaan and Akshat left, Riddhima called up her papa to explain to him that Armaan preferred to continue in Munnar. He was not happy to hear it, but couldn't talk to her at length because he was leaving for an urgent meeting at Sanjeevani. He hung up saying he would call her after that.

When Armaan came home for lunch he was anxious to know what was his father-in-law's reaction to his refusal. Somehow he had a premonition that it wouldn't go down well with him. But he was surprised to hear that he hadn't said anything. So he went back to the hospital with a light heart.

But his premonition came true when Dr. Shashank called him up in the afternoon and blasted him saying how he had put him to shame in front of the board of directors. He had no qualms about telling him how, with great difficulty he had convinced them that his son-in-law was best suited for the post. So he was shocked that, after him doing so much, Armaan had the audacity to refuse. Armaan reminded him that he had refused his offer in the very first place though his reasons may have been different. Dr. Shashank's reply to that was that he was a selfish person who didn't care about Riddhima. He didn't understand her wanting to be close to her parents. Armaan had nothing further to say so he just apologized and cut the call.

He was very upset but it set him thinking. He started wondering if he really was that selfish? Maybe Riddhima had expressed her wish to move closer to them, when she went to Mumbai. He couldn't concentrate on his work. So on the pretext of not feeling well, he returned home. He thought as Akshat wouldn't be home from school as yet, he would talk it out with Riddhima.

As usual kaka opened the door even before he could ring the bell. As he walked to his room and opened the closed door, he heard her talking angrily to someone. And he stopped in his tracks.

R: Di, would you tolerate it if I spoke like that to you about jeeju?

An: -------------------------------------------------------------------

R: Haan Di, I'm defensive about him, is it a crime?

An: ---------------------------------------------------------

R: That may be your opinion di but it's not true. In the first place he never asked papa to create a new department for him.

An:------------------------------------------

R: No di, I don't agree with that either. I'm not pointing fingers at papa, but he has done this for his selfish reason and not because of his love for Armaan. He's getting old and wants to have his grand children around him. That's it.

An:------------------------------------------------

R: No, di you are talking like papa now, purposely mincing words. I'm not saying he shouldn't want his grand children, but he should know he can't go around controlling everyone's life.

Armaan was shocked to hear her talking to her Di in such a manner. He was in a dilemma, should he make his presence known or should her let her finish the call. He thought he had better wait.

R: it's ok di, you have every right to tell me what you feel is good for me. I'm only disappointed that you all have still not understood my Armaan. Di even if papa had searched the whole world, he couldn't have found a husband like him for me. And you blame that gem of being selfish, he couldn't be, even if he wanted to. To him nothing is more important than me and my happiness. Bye di.

When she switched off the phone and turned around, she saw him standing with his hand still holding the door handle. From his looks she could gauge something was wrong. She came near and putting her hand on his cheeks "Armaan are you ok? How come you are home so early? Tumhari tabiyat to theek hai na?" He didn't reply but just took her into a rib-crashing hug. She also hugged him, but when she felt something wet on her shoulder she was shocked and came out of the hug. Seeing the tears in his eyes, she wiped them, made him sit on the bed, and offered him a glass of water.

Then she put away the glass and sat down beside him, holding his palms in hers. "Maybe your papa and di are right. I may have had a selfish motive in rejecting that offer," he began.

R: Armaan what nonsense are you talking?

A: Riddhima, they are right in thinking I don't want to share you with anyone. Maybe it was at the back of my mind, that if we moved to be Mumbai you will be spending sometime with your parents and wouldn't be at my disposal 24x7, as you are here.

R: Armaan, who said that? Did papa call you?

If she had a doubt the change in his expression confirmed it. So instead of calling her he had called him and left Anjali to talk with her. Not getting any reply from him she continued, "am I complaining about that? On the contrary I'm very pleased that you are so possessive about me, it only shows how much you love me."

A: But Riddhima, it's not right na? I was thinking, tomorrow if someone kept my children away from me I would also feel bad. They are your parents, so it's only right that they want to have you and your children near. They have gone to such lengths to take care of even my career. Maybe I shoudn't refuse.