SS-Mere Dil Mein Rehte Hain(Chapters16-20pg36/37) - Page 23

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Chapter 16

Dev Singh Khurana hit the racquetball again and again, trying desperately to hang on to his resolve. He had promised Meera that he wouldn't do anything that she didn't want, but it was so hard. As the hours had passed since their meeting with no phone call, Dev's hopes grew weaker and weaker, as his desire to see her again grew stronger. He couldn't understand why it was so hard to stay away, but that brief interaction was like a single raindrop in a desert, not nearly enough to satisfy.



Taking a break from the physical activity, Dev said to himself, "You promised her and you shouldn't break your promise. But does that mean that you can't ever see her again? Would it really be breaking your promise if you just went to get a glimpse of her again? You don't have to show yourself, or contact her in anyway. She wouldn't even know you're there. No, but what if she does find out? You don't want to break her trust, not after everything that has happened."

"Oh, this is so stupid! It's like I'm a boy of fifteen debating whether to ask a girl out on a date. You're a man, Dev, an adult. Start acting like it!"

Dev continued to debate with himself, sometimes deciding to leave and go back to Mumbai, and sometimes determining to wait Meera out. Eventually he decided it was time to go back home and started to gather up his stuff. He was nearly ready to leave when he heard his phone ring. Dropping his bag, Dev quickly answered the call, hoping to hear the voice of the one he had been waiting so many hours for.

An hour later, after a quick shower and a furious drive across town, Dev stood in front of the address he had been given. There was nothing to indicate that the address was incorrect. Actually, it was exactly the sort of place he would have expected. Still, he had a nagging feeling that wouldn't go away. There was a part of him that feared it was a dream. That feeling continued until he finally saw the willowy brunette slowly make her way out of the building and across the courtyard.

Seeing Dev standing in front of her, Meera couldn't contain her emotions anymore. She threw her arms around him and squeezed tightly. He mimicked her motions, returning the hug and Meera couldn't contain her smile. It felt so good to be held in his arms that she didn't care who was watching them.



"I can't tell you how glad I was to get your call," said Dev as he pulled her a little closer. "And knowing you, this is exactly the sort of place I would expect you to be working at."

Meera pulled back and said hesitantly, "The truth is that this place is the reason that I got into education and working with disadvantaged children."

"What do you mean?"

"When I was five, my grandmother got sick and knew she didn't have much time left. We didn't have any other family, so she arranged for me to come and live in the orphanage. I stayed here until I was ten. That was when my parents adopted me."

Dev eyed Meera seriously for a moment and then asked, "Why are you looking so scared while telling me this?"

"Oh, well...uh...People think it's fine, even wonderful to try and help the poor and unfortunate, but when they find out that your motivation is that you once were in the same position, I don't know, but they..."

"They look down on you," finished Dev. "Meera, did you really think I would think less of you because you were adopted?"

"No," replied Meera slowly, "but some people do..."

"I'm not 'some people'," he said sternly.

"Sorry," she offered, holding her ears also. "Actually, it happened a lot more when I was first adopted, but I still get weird vibes from people sometimes. I guess I'm a little sensitive about the whole thing."

"Well, I don't know about 'people', but I thought you were pretty great already. Now that I know your background, I'm just more impressed, not less."

Dev's words were a simple enough compliment, but the way it was delivered had Meera blushing, and looking away shyly. Dev smiled at her innocent reaction and then requested to be shown around the orphanage. Meera took him inside, introducing him to Ranimaa and Roopa Aunty, as well as all the girls. His charm and easy ways with the younger girls impressed all except Roopa, who was wary of his divorced status.

In spite of Roopa's misgivings, Dev was invited back the next day to help with the start of the orphanage's annual garden plantings. It was an event that all the children took part in, but special consideration was given to the youngest, non-school going children. Not only did they like "playing" in the dirt, as they thought of it, but it was also a good learning experience for them. Another adult to help supervise was also welcome in Ranimaa's thinking.

That was how Dev came to be digging in the dirt with a dozen three and four year old little girls whose goal seemed to become as dirty as possible. It was a wonderful kind of chaos that Dev loved, as he had always been fond of children. He also loved to watch Meera in action, helping the little girls to focus their natural energy into something constructive. They had fun using their little tools to break up the hard dirt and make the earth ready to plant the seeds.

The seed planting itself had to wait until the older children were back from school. Getting the little ones to put things away and clean up for their afternoon snack was more difficult than Dev would have thought. Apparently trying to run away from Meera was more fun than eating apple slices. Dev did what he could to help but eventually it took Ranimaa and Roopa's stern command to get the children to behave.

As the children marched off to get washed up, Dev helped Meera tidy up the garden. Tools were cleaned off and put aside ready to be used again. They also brought out supplies from the store room in preparation for the planting, with Dev doing most of the heavy lifting. Together they attacked the waiting compost pile with shovels, filling buckets with the stuff to make it easier for the children to use. The small corner area left little space to work comfortably in, and eventually the two bumped into each other.

Dev dropped his shovel and reached out to grab Meera before she could fall backwards. Though they were both sweaty from the afternoon's exertions, Dev thought he had never seen anyone more beautiful than the woman in his arms. Even the brown spot clearly visible on her face couldn't mar her delicate features. Dev reached out slowly to the spot of dirt on Meera's cheek, wiping it gently with his thumb. Even when the dirt was gone, his hand lingered, his fingers lightly running along her smooth skin. Her chocolate brown eyes captured his gaze, preventing him from anything except drowning in their lovely pools. Neither was aware of how long they stood together like that. Only when they heard the giggling of young girls did their reverie finally break.



Dev and Meera pulled back in embarrassment which was only heightened when they heard a voice say, "Come on children, stop standing around and go inside for your snack," clearly indicating that it was not just little girls who had seen their closeness.

Meera could see Geet smiling at them and tried to think of something to say. Geet beat her to it by saying cheekily to Dev, "Why don't you just ask her on a date already. It's no good trying to do romance chup chup ke around here. Too many little eyes. Just ask my Di out to diner and be done with it. I know she won't turn you down."

Meera couldn't believe that Geet had suggested such a thing and apologized to Dev before leaving, totally embarrassed by her friend's behavior. Dev didn't know what to make of the whole incident, and didn't even have time to analyze his own feelings. Moments after Meera left he heard some of the returning students calling out a girl's name.

A flash of legs and hair was seen racing towards the store room, as a little, choked voice cried, "I hate school, I hate people, I hate this place, I hate everything!"

Dev immediately followed, determined to find out what the problem was. As he entered the store room, he could see a little girl huddling in one corner, head down, sobbing heavily. Female tears were never something that Dev was very good with, and the cries of the little girl who couldn't be more than six had him at a total loss as what to do. Looking around to see if Meera or someone else was coming, he saw no one. Deciding he should try to do something himself, Dev walked up to the little girl and quietly asked what was wrong.

When the little girl only raised her head enough to peer at him through wet eyes, Dev asked, "What's your name?"

"Anjali," came the muffled reply.

"Well, Anjali, what's an angel like you doing here, making so many tears? What happened?"

"What's 'angel'?" asked the little girl, not replying at all to Dev's question.

Dev smiled a bit at Anjali's question, explaining just exactly what an angel was. When she heard his explanation, the little girl angrily declared that she wasn't an angel. She couldn't be an angel, because if she was, then she wouldn't be ugly and unwanted. Dev was shocked by her outburst, but when she explained how some school boys were making fun of the red mark the covered half her cheek, he understood.

"You know Anjali, I can understand how upset you are. When I was in school, there were some boys who used to make fun of me too."

"They made fun of you?" questioned the little girl, frowning. "Why?"

"Well, I was a very small kid and I had glasses. The other kids always called me 'Shorty Four Eyes'. It used to upset me all the time until I talked to my brother about it. He explained to me that I shouldn't let the names they were calling me make me sad. He said that they only did it because they knew they could get a reaction from me. He also said that what they thought didn't matter, it was only what I thought that mattered. If I knew that I was behaving in a way that would make Dadima and our parents proud, then other people could say what they wanted, but that didn't make it true."

"But..." came the response from trembling lips.

"But what?" prompted Dev.

"Arnav said that nobody would want an ugly girl like me, that's why I'm an orphan and that nobody will adopt me because I'm so ugly."

Dev cringed inwardly at the cruelty that young children show towards one another, but tried not to let his anger show. "Well, I think that maybe Arnav needs glasses too, because I've never seen a more beautiful girl in my life. Now, why don't you come with me and have some apple slices to eat."

Dev held out his hand, which little Anjali took after a few moments hesitation. Using her free hand to wipe her tears, she followed Dev out of the storage room and off towards the kitchen. Joining the rest of the group, Dev and Anjali ate their apple slices and talked about school. Later they all went back out to the garden and finished up the planting, the older girls patiently showing the young ones what to do. At the end of the very busy day, Dev was invited to come back on Sunday for Ranimaa's birthday party.

When he showed up, he was unprepared for Meera's friend Geet to pounce on him, demanding to know when he was going to ask Meera out. It was even more embarrassing as Meera was there to witness her friend's harassment. He finally offered up the idea of a double date with her and her husband to see the latest blockbuster. Then he quickly made his escape on the excuse of searching out Anjali.

For Geet's part, she was so happy that she had finally arranged a date for her Di with Dev Khurana. All she needed was Maan's agreement, which she quickly went in search of with Meera in tow. It took her awhile, but eventually she found him talking with Jugnu Mama. Seeing his tall, handsome form took her breath away and momentarily distracted her from her mission. It was only when Meera shook her arm that Geet came back to reality and remembered why she had sought Maan out. Not caring that she interrupted Jugnu Mama's story, she came right up to Maan and started speaking.



"We can go, right Maan?" asked Geet excitedly, threading her arm through his and giving him a huge smile.

"Go where?" he responded, taking in her beautiful, animated features.

"To a movie with Dev and Meera on Friday," she replied.

"Dev?" Maan questioned, feeling a strange nervousness steal over him.

"Dev Khurana," replied Meera, assuming that Maan wanted to know the full name.

"Dev Khurana is the younger brother of MK, if you can believe it," said Geet chirpily, unaware of how her words brought a chill over her husband's body. "He and Meera met in Mumbai, and then later they met again here in Delhi. I think it's so romantic. The only problem is that Dev is just too shy to go out with Meera alone on a date, but he did suggest that all four of us could go to a movie together. So, we can go, right Maan?"

"No, Geet, uh, we are very busy at work and are going to be putting in some late nights. Actually, I just got a call a little while ago that I need to go into work this afternoon. I'm sorry."

Maan left and Geet rushed after him, bewildered by his behavior. Eager to take his leave from Ranimaa and escape, Maan hurried to leave, Geet trailing behind him. Neither of them noticed the young man will a little girl riding on his back glancing open mouthed their way.

"Angel, you go and have some sweats and I'll come find you in a bit," said Dev as he set the little girl down.

"Okay, Uncle," replied Anjali, skipping away happily. Before she got too far, she ran back, threw her little arms around him, and declared, "I love you Uncle," before heading off again.

It took Dev a second to regroup after that unexpected declaration. He quickly went towards the front of the building, but when he stepped out into the courtyard, all he saw were groups of neighbors wishing Ranimaa happy birthday, while the children played happily. He was sure he had seen his brother, but even when he went out of the gate and looked up and down the street, there was nothing. At least no, sign of his brother, but as he moved to go back inside, a taxi pulled up, which Adi, a young woman, and an older gentleman exited.

"Adi, you here?" asked Dev in bewilderment, while Adi laughed nervously. "I never expected to see you, and not only that, but I swear Bro was just here a few moments ago. Why would Bro be here? Adi, do you know anything?"

Again, Adi laughed nervously, taking Dev aside and trying to divert his attention. Dev wasn't having any of that. He wanted to know what Adi was hiding and why his brother would have been at the orphanage. Eventually Adi admitted that Maan was there, but pleaded with Dev not to mention anything about his brother to anyone. He also advised Dev that if he wanted to know what Maan was doing, he she ask his brother himself, and not bring Adi in the middle.

While Dev grappled with what to do about talking to a brother he had been estranged from for over a year, Maan also tried to figure out what to do. He missed his family, but he was in a difficult situation, one almost entirely of his own making. He was sure Dadima and Dev thought he was still angry with both of them, and until Geet knew the truth, he couldn't risk contacting his family to explain anything. How to tell Geet everything remained his biggest problem, and it preyed on his mind constantly.

"Maan, what's wrong?" asked Geet, putting her hand lightly on his shoulder. "I've been noticing that something is bothering you and has been ever since Ranimaa's birthday party. Please, tell me what's wrong."



Maan took her hand in his turning to look into her face, using his free hand to trace her cheek lightly. "Geet, I wish... You are the sweetest, most beautiful, most worthy wife a man could ever ask for. I just wish that I was the husband that you deserve."

"Maan, why are you saying this? You are the best husband in the world!" Maan just shook his head.

"You deserve to have everything. You deserve to be treated like a princess and live in a palace, not a small one level in Laxmi Nagar. If you had never married me, you would be well on your way to becoming MK's secretary. The fact that Meera knows Dev Khurana means that it would have been easy for you to get an introduction." Geet put her hand on Maan's mouth, not letting him say another word.

With a frown, Geet observed sadly, "Maan, still you are thinking about this?"

Maan looked away, unable to say why the subject of his seeming lack of wealth kept coming up. He had no idea how to even begin explaining his real identity to his wife. The mention and brief glimpse of his brother at Ranimaa's birthday party had shaken him. His secret had very nearly been exposed, leaving him confused and worried.

Geet couldn't bare to see the worry on her husbands face and determined to sort out the situation. Putting her hand under his chin so he would have to look at her, she said, "Maan, our one year anniversary is next week, and it pains me that even after all this time you still are thinking of my silly, schoolgirl plan to marry MK. Maan, that idea of mine was nothing more than a fairy tale, a dream to help me get over the death of Meeta Aunty. I really only wanted a rich husband, not for the comforts wealth would bring, though they would have been nice, but to help support the orphanage like Meeta Aunty did."

"But look how good Babaji has been. Not only do I have a wonderful husband who loves me and I love him, but that anonymous donor began giving support and so now Ranimaa doesn't need to worry about money like she used to. Everything has turned out so much better than I ever could have imagine, and most importantly, I am so happy to be your wife. And the truth is, that even if something were to happen like you lost your job, we had to leave the house and move in with Jugnu Mama, or anything else, I would still be content to be by your side."

Though Maan knew his wife's qualities, and that she was nothing like the money minded women who had been after him in the past, still her declaration left him in awe. He couldn't stop himself from pulling her into his strong embrace. Geet melted for a few moments until she realized they were standing out in the open where anyone could see. Chiding Maan for his shamelessness, she hurried him inside the house and shut the door.

Chapter 17



Arjun paused as he finally had a glimpse of his quarry after months of stalking Khurana Constructions. The man he had patiently sought was emerging the building with his bodyguards and walking towards a black car. Not wanting to miss this opportunity, Arjun quickly ran towards his motorcycle, pulling on his helmet and starting the bike just in time to follow the leaving car.

After an interesting time trying to tail the elusive MD of KC, that included a stint riding the Metro, Arjun finally found what he was after. Whipping out his camera he secreted himself behind a tree and took as many pictures as possible. He knew that he would need hard evidence if he was to be believed, for the truth was even more fantastic than he could have imagined. Being sure to take note of the address after he got enough pictures to satisfy himself, Arjun quickly made his way back to the Khurana mansion to put his plan into motion.

The next day Savitri Devi was on her way to the same little house he had observed the day before. She didn't want to believe that what Arjun had told her was true, but his pictures were quite convincing. Rather than make a big fuss, she preferred to see the truth for herself. She didn't want to draw attention to herself, so she had her driver let her off at a corner, telling him that she would call when she wanted to be picked up.

Knowing that Maan would be at work still, Savitri made her way to the gate and peered at the place that her grandson had apparently been living in for quite a while. She saw a figure watering some plants on the porch, the same female figure she had seen hugging her grandson in those pictures Arjun showed her. Savitri was not prone to angry outbursts or confrontations, especially when she did not know all the facts. She assumed that the young lady would not know who she was, and executed her plan with that thought in mind.

"Excuse me," she said as she walked up to the young woman.

"Ji, Aunty?" responded the girl, turning around and giving Savitri a clear glimpse of her mangalsutra and sindoor that indicated her marital status.

"Would you be able to spare a glass of water?" Savitri asked, doing her best impression of a tired and thirsty old lady.

"Of course, Aunty. Please, come inside and rest yourself. It is very hot today."

Geet took the elderly woman inside and made sure she was comfortably sitting before going into the small kitchen. She poured her unexpected guest a glass of cool water from the refrigerator and prepared a plate of snacks as additional refreshment. The woman complimented her on her kindness and requested to know her name. Geet proudly gave her full name of Geet Maan Singh, not noticing the slight surprise it gave her guest.

The woman stood up and moved to the wall where several pictures of her and Maan were displayed. Her finger lingering on their wedding photo, she asked, "Is this your husband? He's very handsome."

"Yes," answered Geet proudly. "Actually, it's our first anniversary today, and he is coming home early from work so that we can celebrate together."

"Congratulations," said the woman, who then observed, "your families must be making big plans to celebrate such a momentous event."

Geet frowned and said, "Actually, my husband doesn't really talk about his family. I think maybe there is some difficulty there that bothers him, but I'm not sure. Anyway, it will just be the two of us. He's taking me out somewhere, but won't say where because he wants to give me a surprise."

"That's very sweet. I hope that you both will always remain happy."

"Aunty, did you need anything else? Some more water? Really it is very hot outside."

"No, Geet beti, thank you. And please, call me Dadima like my grandchildren do. You are just about their age."

"Okay, Dadima. You're sure you don't need anything else?"

"No. I'll just be on my way now."

Savitri left the charming young woman called Geet with as many questions as she had before she came. It was obvious that Maan had married her, but how could they have been married for a year and she not know anything about it? And why where they living in this small house? If Maan was still angry with her and wanted to live elsewhere, he could certainly afford any of the most expensive properties in Delhi. She was going to have to ask someone to answer her questions, and she doubted that Maan would be willing. That left only one other person, and Savitri quickly dialed the number as her driver began taking her home.



"Adi, this is Savitri Devi, Maan and Dev's Dadima speaking."

"Hello, Dadima," responded Adi nervously.

"Adi, before you head home from work, I'd like you to stop by the mansion. There are a few questions I have, and I think you are the person to answer them."

"Me, Dadima?" Sensing a potentially difficult situation, Adi tried to make excuses. "I don't think that I can really..."

"Adi," interrupted Savitri sternly, "don't make me involve your mother."

Well, that threat immediately had Adi agreeing to come by to the mansion. He promised that he would come just as soon as he finished up a few things in the office. Maan had let the entire staff go early that evening, and though Adi knew the reason, he very much wished that he could have used the excuse of needing to work late. He had a suspicion about what Savitri Devi wanted from him, and he was afraid that he was once again going to have a member of Maan's family demanding answers from him, instead of from the person they really should be asking.

Maan himself hurried home, blissfully unaware of the difficult his friend was undergoing on his behalf, eager to take Geet out to celebrate. He knew she thought he had booked a table at a restaurant, but she was wrong. As the orphanage was the only family Geet had ever known, and as they had been deprived of participating in the wedding, Maan had arranged with Ranimaa to plan a surprise party for Geet. It had been a bit difficult to keep her from finding out, but when he pulled the blindfold from her eyes as everyone shouted "Happy Anniversary", the expression on Geet's face was worth it.

They had a very good time celebrating with everyone, and when the party was over, Maan took Geet out for a late night movie date. Geet had such a wonderful time, that when they returned home, she didn't want the night to end. Turning on the radio, she pulled Maan into her arms and demanded he dance with her. He was only too happy to oblige. The lovers danced well passed midnight, finally celebrating their year together in a more intimate way.

The next morning Geet woke up with a start when Maan called her name. She saw that he was all ready to leave for work. Geet couldn't understand how she had slept so late, and scolded Maan for not waking her. Maan responded back that they had a very late night and he couldn't bare to disturb her when she looked so beautiful sleeping that morning. Then he kissed a blushing Geet and left for work before she could even respond.

Well, Geet was happy to have such a loving and considerate husband, but she didn't like sending him off to work with no breakfast or lunch. After she quickly freshened up, she made the decision to cook Maan some lunch and take it to KC herself. Showing up at the impressive building that housed the construction company's headquarters, Geet made her way to the receptionist. It was clear that the girl must be knew, for she acted very confused when Geet asked for Mr. Singh in Accounting. It was fortunate for Geet that Adi was passing by right then, for he stopped and asked her what she was doing there.

"Adi, I brought lunch for Maan," explained Geet, holding up the tiffin. "I slept in late and there wasn't time to get it ready before he left for work this morning, but I didn't want him to eat outside food. Can you show me where his desk is?"



"Actually, Geet, I don't think that would be such a good idea," said Adi, thinking quickly on his feet. "MK doesn't really like it when family members come to the office. But, if you want to wait in this empty conference room, I can go get Maan and bring him to meet you."

Leaving Geet, Adi quickly made his way to Maan's office, not caring that he interrupted a dictation his friend and boss was giving his secretary. When Maan listened to Adi whisper in his ear the reason for the interruption, he quickly wrapped things up, and made his way to meet Geet. When he reached the conference room, Maan tried to keep the apprehension at her appearance out of his voice as he questioned why she had felt the need to come to the office. Geet gave him a look that said it should be obvious, before holding up the tiffin for his inspection.

"I brought your lunch. The least you could do is thank me."

"Thank you, Jaan," said Maan, trying to take the tiffin from her hand and send her on her way.

"Oh, no you don't," said Geet sternly, walking to a couch and sitting resolutely on it. "I know you didn't eat any breakfast, and I am not leaving until I see for myself that you eat a few bites. I can see you are about to protest, but Adi said that this conference room was not being used right now, and it will only be for a few minutes."

"Alright, Geet," agreed Maan, but he made sure to shut and lock the door, just to make certain they weren't disturbed.



"There is the usual Roti and Dal, but I also made Aloo Gobi, Palak Paneer, and Rasmalai for dessert." Geet set out all the items and then looked at Maan expectantly. She watched him tear a piece of Roti and dip it in Dal, but then hesitated.

"What's wrong, Maan? Don't you like the food? It's just the same as I always make for you."

"Have you had lunch yet?" Maan asked.

"No, but..."

"How can I eat when my darling Jaan is hungry?" Maan continued, holding the piece of food up to her mouth.

"But Maan, you will get in trouble. I only meant for us to stay here a few minutes. What if someone comes?"

"No one will come. As Adi told you, Geet, this room is not being used today. Don't worry. I want to feed my wife from my own hand and her to do the same for me."

"You're sure that we won't get in trouble? Adi made MK sound like a really scary boss."

Maan made a mental note to have a talk with Adi, but calmly reassured Geet that he was absolutely sure they would not get into trouble. He then encouraged her to eat the morsel of food from his hand, which she did happily. They talked and ate, Maan careful to let them take only half an hour together. When it was time for Geet to leave, the staff where suspiciously absent from the area, due to Adi's careful management. Maan bid a reluctant goodbye to Geet, but he had to let her go, or risk exposure of his secret. Geet had no qualms about leaving her husband to his work, in fact it was a rare treat for her to see him in the middle of the day. She happily made her way out of Khurana Constructions, but paused when she saw a familiar face.

"Dadima, aap?"

"Geet beti, I didn't expect to see you here," said Savitri, wondering if Geet's presence meant Maan had finally revealed everything.

"Oh, I brought Maan his lunch today," explained Geet. Then, in a conspiratorial whisper, she said, "Do you know Dadima, that we met in one of the unused conference rooms and ate with each other for almost half and hour? It was such a nice time. I would have preferred to eat at his desk, or the cafeteria, but do you know, MK doesn't like for families to visit. He gets all grumpy, or something, thinking that the family members are a distraction. What a strange person. Anyway, you didn't tell me why you were here, Dadima."

"I came to meet my grandson," Savitri replied, smiling at Geet's reaction when she added, "MK, Khurana Construction's owner and managing director."

"Oh, Ma'am," gasped Geet, "I am so sorry. Maan and I didn't mean any harm. It was just the excitement of our anniversary that went to our heads. Please don't tell MK that Maan and I had lunch here together, or that we snuck into a conference room. I made sure that everything was clean and no crumbs were left. Please don't tell MK. He might fire Maan, and we need this job."

Savitri worked hard to contain her frustration that Maan had still not told his wife the truth, but hastened to reassure Geet. "Beti, I promise I will not mention a word of your lunch time activities to my grandson, but only on one condition."

"What condition, Ma'am?"

"Call me Dadima, not Ma'am!" Savitri responded sternly, before laughing.

Geet laughed too, when she saw the older woman's face change from mock outrage to happiness. Then, quickly taking Savitri's blessing, Geet left, leaving her to wonder how to deal with her wayward grandson. And he was definitely wayward, if all she had learned from Adi was true. Determined not to be stopped this time, Savitri walked regally through the halls of KC, no one daring to tell her no. Within minutes she had entered Maan's cabin and declared that whether he was still angry with her or not, she would speak to him.

"Dadima, I'm extremely busy. I don't have time for all this right now."



"Yes, I can see that you are busy. Yes, you are much too busy and have been too busy for the last year to tell me that I have a new bahu, or bring her to meet me. Don't give me that glare, young man. I'm the one who has a right to be upset, not you."

"Dadima, what do you want?" asked Maan, leaning on his desk in frustration .

Savitri walked up to his desk and sat down, before she answered his question. "I want this separation between us to end. I want your forgiveness. I supported Naintara against you without knowing all the facts and I am sorry. I am only human and sometimes I make mistakes. I also want you to come home and bring my bahu with you. Geet is a lovely young woman, and want to have a chance to get to know her better and introduce her to all my acquaintances."

"Dadima, have you met Geet?" asked Maan, suspicious from how his grandmother spoke of his wife.

"Yes, I stopped at your house yesterday and spent a little bit of time with her," Savitri confirmed.

"Oh don't worry, I didn't tell her who I was," she continued in response to the look of horror on Maan's face. "That doesn't mean that I approve of the way you've kept the poor girl in the dark regarding the truth of who she is married to. You need to tell her the truth."

Maan sighed, turning to walk to his office window that sported a breathtaking view. "It's not that easy, Dadima," said Maan, as he looked unseeing out the window.

"The truth is always easier than lies, Maan. Eventually she will have to know the truth."

When Maan still showed reluctance, Savitri said sternly, "Maan, you have no right to keep my pota bahu from her own home. This charade of yours must end. If you won't tell her the truth about yourself, then I will."

Chapter 18

"I just want to go over a few things with you, Mrs. Singh, before you leave," said the Doctor as Geet settle her clothing and replaced her dupatta.



"Now, I've given you a prescription for the prenatal vitamins that you should be taken. These are very important to help ensure that the baby receives all the nutrition it needs to grow healthily. You may experience some nausea, which is common during pregnancy. As long as it is mild, it shouldn't pose a problem, but if it ever gets bad, don't hesitate to come back before your next schedule visit."

Geet listened intently to everything the doctor told her, hardly able to believe truth. Only two days previous she had been celebrating one year of marriage, and now she had the happy news of impending motherhood to consider. She was sure that Maan would be happy too and she couldn't wait to tell him. She actually felt like going back to KC right then, but refrained, fearing her presence might get her husband in trouble.

Instead, she went home and tried to think of ways to tell him the wonderful news. She wanted Maan to be the first one to know, but that wish was unfulfilled. Just after she returned home, Pammi came knocking at the door. As it was Pammi who had suggested just that morning that she should see a doctor, Geet couldn't very well keep the results of the visit a secret. She shared her news happily, but begged Pammi not to tell anyone else. She didn't want Maan to find out from anyone but her, and she wanted to make the moment special.

All her plans went out the window when Maan called her in the late afternoon and told her to be ready to go out when he got home from work. When Maan came home and led her out of the house and into a waiting car, Geet was so confused. She couldn't understand what was happening and asked Maan to explain several times. All he would say was that she would understand everything soon. Even when the car pulled into an enormous white mansion and Maan led her inside, she still had no clue as to what was happening.

Just as she had the day before, Geet exclaimed, "Dadima, aap?" as she saw the older woman walk toward her. Then, looking back and forth from Maan to Savitri, she said, "I don't understand. Why are we here?"

Savitri good see that Maan didn't know exactly how to start, so she pointed to him and asked, "Geet Beti, who is this?"

"That's my husband, Dadima," answered Geet, her confusion only increasing at the strange question."

"Yes, Beti, but what is his name?"

"Why, Maan Singh, of course. But I don't understand why you're asking me when you must already know."

"I do know, and you are incorrect, my dear. His name isn't 'Maan Singh', it's..."

"What?" Geet couldn't have been more shocked if Savitri had declared that Maan's name was Gandhi. "There is some sort of mistake. I think I would know what my own husband's name is. Maan, what is going on?"

Taking Geet's hand, Maan said, "Dadima, I'll handle this. Geet darling, what Dadima means is that Maan Singh isn't my full name. My full name is Maan Singh Khurana."

"That's not possible," said Geet slowly, shaking her head in denial. "Don't say something like that, even in a joke."

"He's not joking, Beti. I know, because I have been his grandmother since the day he came into this world. The man you married is none other than MK, my grandson, and malkin of the Khurana Empire, including Khurana Constructions."

That information was more than Geet could process. Her started rolling back in her head, and she would have collapsed if Maan wasn't right next to her. He tried calling to Geet, shaking her slightly in an effort to revive her. When that didn't work, Savitri had him carry her up to his room, even as she directed a servant to call the doctor. Maan didn't like how pale Geet looked, feeling helpless that he could do nothing for her. He felt even more helpless after the doctor finally arrived and made everyone leave the room while she examined Geet.

Geet regained consciousness shortly after the doctor's arrival. The doctor asked her many questions, before concluding that Geet had experienced a fainting spell due to her pregnancy. Geet requested that the doctor not mention anything about the baby, as she hadn't had a chance to tell the family yet. The doctor agreed, but warned Geet that she should take care of herself. Maan tried to come and speak with her, but Geet just couldn't handle it. She flat out told him to leave her alone, that she couldn't talk to him. Maan didn't want to do it, but Savitri suggested that it might be wise to give Geet time to come to terms with everything. Reluctantly Maan left the room, but he didn't go far.

Geet pulled her knees into her chest and rested her head against the bed's headboard. Her mind was in such turmoil from the day's events that she didn't know what to think. Just that afternoon she had be so happy learning that she and Maan were going to have a baby. The excitement of deciding how to tell her husband the wonderful news had filled her whole body, lifting her spirits.



Now, all she felt was let down. She couldn't believe that the man she loved, and who loved her so much, had perpetrated such a big deceit. She also felt very stupid. MK had been her teenage crush, the person that she waited to hear any news of. Just like other teens obsessed about movie stars, she had obsessed about MK. Yet, she had been married to that man for just over a year, and never even suspected that her Maan and MK were the same person.

Rolling to lay on her side, Geet held her stomach in a protective gesture. Tears began to form in her eyes and drip silently down her cheeks. She knew that she would have to tell Maan about the baby soon, but what once seemed like such wonderful news, now carried only feelings of sadness. How could she bring her baby into a world where it's parents entire relationship was based on deceit?

"Oh, Baby," she sighed tearfully, "what am I going to do now?"

Two hours later Savitri walked up to her grandson and saw him looking at a picture she had never even seen him glance at before. From the time he was a small boy he had never been interested in religion. He preferred to handle his problems himself, rather than look to some higher being. Now, for the very first time, she was witnessing the strong, independent Maan Singh Khurana, raise folded hands and bow his head before God.



"Babaji, I have made a very big mistake. I have hurt my wife by keeping my real identity from her, even though that was never my intension. I don't know if Geet can ever forgive me for my deception, but please, please... I can't live without her, Babaji. She is my life, the other half of my soul. Please, please, let her forgive me, and please Babaji, you also forgive me for this wrong I have done. Please."

Savitri felt so sad for her grandson and granddaughter-in-law, but more so for Geet. Maan's pain was the result of his mistaken choices, where as Geet had never done anything wrong. Yet is was Maan that concerned her the most, for if he didn't pull himself together, how would he ever be able to sort out the problems between him and his wife. Gently, she pulled Maan towards her and into her arms, comforting him as she used to do when he was a child.

After some time Savitri pulled back and said, "Maan, Geet has refused any food. The servants have offered to make anything she wants, but still she won't eat anything."

Maan looked disturbed to hear this, but calmly suggested, "Have them make gol gappe, the spicier, the better. She won't be able to resist."

His grandmother left to do as he suggested, leaving Maan behind to continue his waiting. Not much later a servant came running up and told him that the young madam was requesting his presence. Maan wasting no time in hurrying to his room, eager to see the face of his beloved Geet. When he arrived he knocked quietly on the door, and entered the room when he heard his wife's soft call to do so. Before Maan could even speak, Geet calmly told him that she called him there because she wanted to know the truth.



Maan could see from Geet's behavior that she wasn't entirely comfortable with his presence. She didn't step onto the nearby balcony, but still stood behind the door, as if using it as a partial barrier between them. He wanted to walk up behind her and envelope her in his arms. He wanted to wipe the tears that he was sure were trailing down her delicate cheeks. He wanted to show her all his love, but he couldn't. He could only start his explanation and hope that she would understand why he behaved as he did.

He reminded her that she knew what had happened between him and Sameera more than a year ago, and explained how deeply it had affected him. He told of how disillusioned he had become with people and life. When due to Ranimaa's misunderstanding of his name, the chance came for him to lead a normal life, he took it. It was never his intention to deceive anyone, but somehow he never could get around to explaining who he really was. It was especially difficult for him after he began to fall in love with her. He wanted to win her love, not as the well known, rich MK, but as simply Maan.

"I suppose you thought I was pretty silly with my plan to become a secretary and marry MK, I mean you," sniffed Geet, feeling even more stupid after she heard Maan's explanation.

"Well, after what happened with Sameera, I wasn't too pleased to meet another girl who was after me for my money. But, I soon found out that you were a much different person than I first thought." Maan had slowly been moving towards Geet since he first began to speak. Now he put his hand on her shoulder and turned her gently to face him, even as he said, "I found out that Geet Handa was a beautiful, loving, mischievous, kind and generous young woman. She is a woman in a million with a heart of gold and I love her very, very much."

As Geet was not pulling away from him, Maan reached up to brush away the tears littering her delicate cheeks. "I know that I should have told you the truth long before, right after we were married, but I wanted the chance for our relationship to start in normal circumstances. And about you wanting to marry MK so that you could help support the orphanage finically, well, I didn't do it to impress you or anything, I didn't even know yet what you had been thinking, but just after we were married I..."

"You were the anonymous donor who started supporting the orphanage," Geet interrupted with certainty.

Maan blinked his surprise, before asking, "How...How did you know?"

"Do you think that I don't know you, after more than a year? It didn't take long to figure out once I knew who you really were. Maybe you've been keeping secrets from me, but I still know you. You wouldn't have been able to see Ranimaa's stress and the girls' conditions and not done something to help," answered Geet, trying to talk evenly, but her voice was still thick from all the crying she had done.

Maan couldn't believe that Geet had guessed he'd been the one to set up the new trust fund for the orphanage, but he knew that he hadn't quite explained everything yet. "I'm sorry that I kept you a secret from my family too, but I had argued badly with both Dadima and Dev. You and I were so happy together, you were so happy in our little house, that I didn't want to upset that. I was so worried that when you found out the truth, you would hate me for not telling you at the beginning."

Maan could feel himself getting choked up, so he paused a moment to gain some control, unconsciously wrapping his arms around Geet in a familiar way. "I was worried that you would leave me without even waiting for an explanation. Can you ever forgive me, my darling Geet?"

Geet nodded her head slowly, her tears having finally dried up. "And you will stay with me forever? You won't ever leave me?"

Geet finally gave a tiny smile at the insecurity in Maan's voice. Reaching up to cup his cheek gently, she said, "I could never do such a thing. I love my baby's papa too much to ever go away from him. Geet Maan ke bina nahi reh sakti."

Maan smiled at Geet's words and then he thought fully about what she had said. "Baby's papa?" he whispered, clearly stunned by what those two words meant.

Geet nodded again and placed his hand gently on her stomach. She watched as his shock was slowly replaced by elation, until he smiled more than she had ever seen him do before. Then he gently took her in his arms and told her though he didn't deserve to be so happy after hurting her with his deception, how much joy he felt at the news she was expecting was unbelievable. Geet sternly told him that he should forget all the past as they were now starting a new chapter in their life. She then gave him a brief kiss, before demanding to be taken to Dadima. Maan agreed, telling her that Dadima longed to be officially introduced to her new bahu.

When Savitri saw them coming down the stairs, she hesitantly enquired if all had been resolved. While Maan assured her that it had, Geet was becoming preoccupied by a wonderful smell. When she saw two servants carrying plates loaded with her favorite food, she shrieked in delight. Before anyone could say anything, she was rushing to the table, preparing herself a plate and popping the spicy treats into her mouth just as fast as she could.

"Maan," she moaned in pleasure, while still eating, "how did you know I was craving gol gappe?"

The word craving caught Savitri's attention, but she was diverted a moment later when Dev arrived and exclaimed, "Bro, you are here?"

Maan eyed Dev for a moment before ignoring him completely. He walked over to Geet and whispered something in her ear. She swallowed and then whispered into his ear. Maan nodded and then turned back towards Dev. Seeing the stern look on his brother's face, Dev was sure he was in for a scolding. He knew he deserved it for believing in Naintara's lies and causing the breakup of the family, but he still was not looking forward to it.

Maan continued his glare for a few moments before saying, "Congratulations, Dev."

"Congratulations? For What?"

Smiling, Maan announced, "In about seven months you are going to become a Chachu for the first time."

Dadima gasped in happiness, while it took Dev a minute to understand what his brother was talking about. When he did, he was equally happy, and the two estranged brothers embraced, while Dadima gave her blessings to Geet and the coming child. Soon Dev was trying to apologize to Maan for everything that happened, but Maan wouldn't hear it. All that had happened between them had led him to Geet, the greatest blessing in his life. Now they were together again, and that was what mattered.

With everything revealed and settled between the family, Savitri took that opportunity to become really aquatinted with Geet, as well as telling her about the Khurana family. Leaving his wife and grandmother to pour over old family albums, Maan took Dev aside and explained that the two of them had some important business to attend to. Once Dev was given all the facts, he immediately agreed to accompany Maan.

They didn't have far to go, just to the second floor of the mansion, and the room where Arjun and Annie were staying. They didn't even knock before they barged into the room and ordered the duo to leave immediately. This did not go over well with the Rathods, who began to argue furiously with the treatment they were getting. Maan wasn't interested in any discussion. He flatly told him that he knew what they had been up to, and their intensions of taking advantage of Dadima.

Several expensive bills from local stores were mentioned, with a warning that they would be handed off to the police for accessing Khurana bank accounts without permission if they did not leave. Arjun and Annie knew that the game was up. They had no choice but to pack their belongings and cut their losses. With the angry glare of Maan on them until they were sitting in their own car, Annie and Arjun Rathod exited the Khurana Maansion.



"Arjun, what are we going to do now?" asked Annie, looking at her husband forlornly.

"We are going to do what we have always done," he replied firmly, looking back at his wife. "We are going to survive as we always have by any scheme that gets us money. I think it would be best to try my mother's relatives in Kolkata, but first, we are going to make a little stop at the Times of India office. I think they would be very interested in making it worth our while to give an exclusive interview."

Chapers 19 and 20 Next Page ---->

Chapter 19

Maan looked at the newspaper and immediately took in both the headline, "MK's Secret Wedding", and combination of an old picture of him and a female silhouette with a question next to it. It seemed like the media had found out about his marriage, but he couldn't think how. As he continued to read, Maan realized that they were quoting Annie and Arjun, and that explained how the information was leaked.



He stormed out of the room, yelling for his grandmother. He was incredibly angry that the media was once again trying to interfere in his life, but more than that, they were after Geet. When Savitri understood the situation, she immediately set out to calm Maan down. She declared that as matriarch of the family, she would handle the press. What she wanted Maan to do was concentrate on his and Geet's wedding.

"What wedding? Geet and I are already married!"

"Married! And with not one single member of your family there? Really, Maan! It's too much. If you want me to forgive you for keeping me from knowing my bahu for all this time, then you won't give me any arguments. Besides, your one year anniversary just passed, so think of it as a way to celebrate that event and the coming of your new little one."

Maan relented and they both agreed that the arrangements should be made soon, before Geet's pregnancy was too far along. They didn't have a chance to discuss anything beyond that, as Geet came demanding that the whole should go with her to the orphanage. She knew that no one would believe the truth if she was the only one telling them, they would just think she was crazy. Even with Savitri and Dev confirming the tale along with Maan and Geet, it was very difficult for the inhabitants of the orphanage to believe that their Geet had actually managed to marry the great MK after all. It took awhile for everyone to forgive Maan for his deception, but Geet's happiness was the most important things for them.

That being said, Meera was not very happy with Dev, and did not think that just because she had forgiven Maan she needed to forgive his brother. She wasn't even interesting in talking to him, or responding to anything that he said to her. Dev was at quite a loss for what to do. He couldn't bare to have Meera angry with him, especially when it wasn't even his fault. Fortunately, little Anjali came to her uncle's rescue.

"Meera Didi, how come you aren't talking to Dev Uncle?" she asked, after some prompting from the man himself.

"Because he hid the truth about my sister's husband from me. That was wrong."

A minute later, Anjali came back and said, "But Dev Uncle didn't even know anything about what Maan Jeejaji was doing. It's not his fault."

At this point Meera figured out that Anjali was not speaking entirely on her own. She could even see Dev hiding behind a corner, trying to hear her response. She thought for a moment and then explained she didn't think it was his fault, but that he shouldn't have kept such a big secret from her. Maybe he didn't know anything in the beginning, but she had sensed something was bothering him for a while. He should have told her as soon as he found out.

Soon the answer came back. "But when Uncle found out, he was asked not to say anything. How was he supposed to tell you? You would have told Geet didi, and there would have been a big problem. Geet Didi might have been so upset that she dev...divo...uh...it would have been a big problem."

"Oh really? And how does Uncle know that's what would have happened?"

"I don't know," Anjali replied. "But Uncle said that at least Maan Jeejaji told the truth himself, and that Geet Didi is happy, so you should forgive him."

"And if I forgive him, then what?" Anjali had to go off for some consultation, but she soon came back with a response.

"Uncle wants to know if you will go on a date with him." Then she thought for a moment before asking, "What's a date?"

That question was much to funny, coming from the innocent little Anjali, for Meera to keep a straight face. Dev quickly hurried over, telling the young girl that he would take things from there. His interactions with "Angel" charmed Meera so much that she couldn't hold on to her anger. Before she knew it, she found herself agreeing to a date with Dev and a week later being escorted by a waiter at one of the most exclusive restaurants, to a private table Dev had booked for them.

"Meera, do you know how much I laughed when Bhabhi told me how she had this elaborate plan to become Bro's secretary and marry him? How crazy is that?"

Meera smiled at Dev while he helped her into her sit before sitting himself and replied, "I guess fate has a way of matching us up with the right person, even if things don't go according to plan."



"That is so true," agreed Dev, reaching across the table to take Meera's hand in his. "Fate even helped me get rid of the wrong person, and no matter how painful it was, I'm glad that in the end I was able to meet the right person."

Meera blushed and looked down, unable to withstand the look in Dev's eye. Dev opened his mouth to say something else, but was interrupted by the waiter. Meera tried to extract her hand, embarrassed at the waiter's presence, but Dev wouldn't let go. They both gave their orders and were left alone once again.

Still holding Meera's hand, giving it gentle caresses with his thumb, Dev said, "I want to talk to you about something. Well, actually I want to ask you a question."

"What question?"

Taking Meera's other hand with his own, Dev looked into her eyes and said, "I've decided to adopt Angel and I want the woman I love to become her mother. Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife, and the mother of my children?"

When Meera didn't say anything, Dev's nervousness took over and he started babbling. "I don't want you to think that I'm only asking you because of Angel. I mean, because I want to adopt Angel. I mean, in a way I am, but only because I love you both and want us to be a family..."

"Are you going to shut up and let me answer?" interrupted Meera.

Dev stopped talking abruptly, giving Meera a chance to give a joyful answer of yes. Dev was so ecstatic that he didn't quite know how to react. He really wanted to get up and hug her or give her a kiss, but that would have been totally inappropriate, not to mention embarrassing. Finally, he settled for giving her hand a brief kiss, before clutching it tightly. He also apologized for not having a ring, but explained that his dadima wanted them to have a traditional ring ceremony. Meera had no problem with that, as even she wanted her parents to be fully involved in her wedding plans.

Both of the families were told of the couple's decision. Meera's parents couldn't have been happier that things worked out so well for daughter and the man she loved. They respected Dev very much, not holding what had happened with his ex-wife against him. Savitri was equally as happy, delighted that she had not one, but two weddings to plan. Time moved quickly, and soon they were celebrating the family's happiness with the whole of Delhi society.

"You look so beautiful," whispered Maan as he circled his arms around Geet's waist.



"I'm wearing your favorite color," she responded, looking into his face. "Remember when we were painting the walls blue and I asked about your favorite color? You told me that white is your favorite color. That's why I chose this dress."

Maan caressed Geet's cheek softly, his heart overwhelmed with feelings of love for the young girl who did anything and everything she could to please him. Then he gently drew her head down to his shoulder and twirled her around, careful not to be too vigorous in deference to her delicate condition. They dance together for some time, along with family and their guests, before Savitri called for everyone's attention.

"Tonight we are celebrating not only the Sangeet of my eldest grandson Maan and his bride Geet, but also the Roka ceremony of my younger grandson Dev and his fiance Meera. You may imagine what my feelings are to know that both my children have found such wonderful life partners. I'm so pleased that you were able to join us in this special time, and look forward to seeing you all tomorrow at the marriage ceremony."

The guests clapped their appreciation for the Khurana matriarch's words and then got back to the most important part of the celebration, the dancing. Maan and Geet continued their dance until Geet became too tired. Dev and Meera also called it a night earlier than the other guest, though they had a different reason. With Ranimaa's permission, they were going to tell Anjali about the adoption on the pretext of giving her a ride home from the party.

"Angel, Meera and I want to talk to you about something," said Dev, while picking up the child in his strong arms.

"What is it, Uncle?" asked a sleeping Anjali, as she rested her comfortably on his shoulder.

"I don't want you to call me 'Uncle' any more," he replied.

"Then what do I call you?" was the perplexed response.

"Papa," said Dev simply.

"And me, Mama," added Meera gently.

Anjali blinked her sleepy eyes, trying to process what she had been told. After a few moments those same eyes turned as round as saucers and she asked, "I'm going to be adopted? You mean you are going to adopt me and be my Mama and Papa?"

"Yes, if that's alright with you."

It was more than alright with Anjali, who exclaimed, "I love you, Papa," proudly as she threw her arms around Dev's neck and squeezed for all she was worth.

After getting the news that Dev and Meera would be her parents and she would have a new family, Anjali's excitement just couldn't be contained. The entire orphanage had been invited for Maan and Geet's wedding, and though all the children constantly needed reminders to behave, Anjali was the worst. It didn't help that Dev indulged her every whim, the word "no" apparently erased from his vocabulary. It was only when her new mother finally took her in hand, severely scolding her for disrupting the picture taking of her Tayaji and Tayiji, that she finally began to calm down. Maan and Geet were amused by their niece's antics, more than anything else, but once Meera had the young girl in hand, the picture taking went much smoother.



"I would have liked this photographer a lot better if he had suggested that you sit on my lap," whispered Maan while sliding his hand around Geet's waist to steady her.

"Maan, stop this naughtiness! Have some shame in front of Dadima and our guests. Soon you'll also be a father and have to start setting a good example for our child." Geet's rebuke did nothing to quell Maan's playfulness, which he proved by rubbing his fingers suggestively up and down her side.

"Maaan, settle down!" cried Geet softly, elbowing his hand even as she looked around to see if anyone noticed her husband's naughty behavior.

"Wow, Jeejaji, you look just like a raja sitting on his throne, and Geet didi looks just like a beautiful princess," exclaimed Nandini. "Romeo, don't you think Jeejaji and Didi are looking just like a prince and princess?"

"What I think is that it's very unfair of you to constantly point out the rich splendors afforded by your Jeejaji's wealth. How do you think that makes me feel? Pretty soon you'll be dumping me for some rich, momma's boy that you meet through your sister."

Nandini wasn't at all impressed by Romeo's sulking. Putting her hands on her hips, she said with attitude, "For your information, I don't consider money to be the most important thing, Mr. Romeo Mehra. Character and hard work are much more important. And I don't appreciate you deciding how I am going to behave. I am the only one who decides that, and right now I feel like getting something to eat. If you want, you're welcome to come along, but only if you are going to be pleasant."

Romeo trailed hopelessly after Nandini, apologizing profusely for upsetting her. Maan and Geet just shook their heads at the young lovers, before turning their attention back to their own wedding. Much of the day passed in a blur for Geet, who was unused to dealing with the numbers of people who turned up for the wedding, or their attention. She never would have gotten through the whole thing if Maan hadn't been right by her side. He did his best to she that not only did she enjoy the entire day, but that she didn't tire herself out too much.

Even with all that Maan, Savitri, Ranimaa and the others did to look after Geet, she was drooping by the end of the evening. Before anyone else could argue, Maan decided that they had spent enough time celebrating. Geet's rest was more important than any silly games, or bargaining over a few rupees. He agreed to pay any amount of money his saalis demanded, but he was going to see that his Geet got the rest that she needed. His efforts did not go in vain, for the next morning Geet was up bright and early, cooking away with Savitri in the mansion's massive kitchen.

"Dadima, do you eat pasta for breakfast?" asked Geet innocently.

"Oh, heavens no! No, that strange trait was something that Maan picked up from my son, though I can't think where he got it from. I always had traditional food served for breakfast when he was little, but when he grew up it was 'pasta, pasta, pasta!' I had no choice but to learn and have all the servants learn how to make italian. Actually, I'm surprised to hear from Maan that he has been eating so much Indian food lately, as he would never touch anything except Continental at home. It must be because he loves you so much."

"Dadima," blushed a smiling Geet, who turned her attention to the dough she was rolling as Dadima laughed.



"Now, I let you into the kitchen today, as the bahu's first cooked meal after marriage is an important rasm, but after this I don't want you taking any stress. Now, don't argue with me. The most important thing for you to do is stay healthy and prepare for the baby. We have a houseful of servants that are all willing to do your slightest bidding, so under no circumstances should you take any tension. Is that understood?"

"Yes, Dadima."

Chapter 20

Sasha was feeling extremely upset as she continued to walk around the room and hear nothing but people talking about the two Khurana brothers and their chosen brides. The same thing had been happening for weeks, and it irked her no end. She had not been invited to any of the functions for Maan's wedding, and she thought it unlikely that she would be invited for the younger Khurana's wedding either. Priding herself on being a leader of Delhi society, it was very important to Sasha to get an invitation to the most important event of the year. Continuing to look around, she spotted someone who could easily get her an invitation. All she had to do was figure out how the best way to go about it.

Walking over to where a man and woman stood talking with some of the other guests, she waited quite patiently for an opening. The woman was yammering on about the restaurant she was starting up and how it would be opened soon. Sasha took that moment to interrupt, offering to come and give her expert advise on the place. Her real intent was to spend time with, Pinky, she thought was the name, and find a way to get back into the Khuranas' lives.

"The thing is, I promised my partner, Mrs. Maan Singh Khurana that I wouldn't do anything that would have the health inspectors trying to shut us down. She doesn't like rodents, so, sorry."



Sasha silently seethed as Adi Saxena escorted his plump, little girlfriend to the dance floor, while Tasha asked, "Did that little nobody just insult you, Sasha?"

While Sasha fumed silently, Adi couldn't help but laugh. "I really need to bring you to these things more often," he told Pinky. "That was the best set down I have every witnessed anyone giving that annoying Sasha, bar none!"

"I aim to please," replied Pinky.

"Oh, really?" questioned Adi. "If that is true, then it would please me very much if you would become my wife. Will you marry me?"

Pinky was temporarily rendered speechless, a rare thing for her, but she recovered quickly. "I can't believe you asked me that question here. What a time to bring up something like that."

Adi wasn't too pleased with that response. "What difference does the time or place make? The only thing I'm interested in is knowing your answer."

Pinky bit her lip nervously, before telling him, "I need to think about it. I'll give you my answer next week."

Since "next week" was Dev and Meera's wedding, Pinky easily busied herself in the preparations, much to Adi's frustration. He wasn't the only one frustrated. Dev, who had been used to almost daily interaction with both Meera and Anjali, was being kept away from them until the day of the marriage. Though Maan could see Geet whenever he wanted, he had a tough time as well. It was a constant struggle for him to see that Geet stayed away from the preparations and rested as much as possible. Somehow she always seemed to find a way to get involved behind his back, right up to the day of the wedding itself.

To accommodate the large number of people present, the ceremony was held outside, on the massive grounds surrounding the mansion. Dev and Meera had both decided that it would be better to control what information was given to the media, so they had invited members of the press they felt had integrity and were trust worthy. One person who was not able to report live from the event was Sasha. She had not be able to inveigle an invitation, forcing her to watch the news coverage later with the rest of Delhi.

The scene was splendid as Meera was escorted out to the mandap where her groom waited. Dev looked at his bride while they waited for the garlands to be brought forward. He thought he had never seen a more beautiful woman. He could hardly believe that she had consented to marry him, or that all his dreams of a family were finally coming true. Watching her blush under his admiring gaze, Dev felt his smile widen involuntarily. She truly was the best woman for him, and now their lives were going to be joined forever.



As the ceremony started, it all became a blur for Dev. There were only two things that could keep his attention. One was the beautiful woman who was becoming his wife. The other was the darling little girl who would soon be theirs legally. Anjali was a constant presence in the ceremony, often trying to tell anyone and everyone that her Mama and Papa were getting married and then they would all live together in a big house.

Geet tried her best to keep the little girl contained, but it was difficult. Maan did what he could to help, concerned as he was for Geet in her advanced stage of pregnancy. Neither of them could do much to curb her energetic behavior, or stop her from telling any and every person that her "Mama and Papa" were getting married. It was a relief to all three, when the more solemn parts of the day were finished and the dancing and fun began.

Amidst all the congratulations and celebrations, two rival teams where out for blood. The boys vowed that they would not let the girls win, no matter what. Elaborate schemes were created to throw the enemy off the scent, with excellent results. What the overconfident males didn't know, was that the girls had plans of their own. They didn't care if they were teased and told they would never win. They just preferred to win. Bragging was all very well, but it was only actions that would lead them to victory.

"Adi, you didn't tell me yet how I am looking," complained Pinky, who batted her eyelashes at him in a very non-Pinky like way.

"Uh..." breathed Adi, not able to do much else with his beautiful girl standing in front of him and giving him so much attention.

"Listen Adi, I wanted to talk to you about something important," Pinky continued, well aware of her affect on the man.

Moving closer, she whispered, "You remember that important question that you asked me last week, and how I told you I would need some time before I gave you an answer?" Adi nodded dumbly.

"Well, my answer to your question is yes."

Adi smiled dreamily at Pinky and she returned his smile. Giving him a quick peck on the cheek, she hurried away, glancing happily at the package held tightly in her hands. Now her dear Dev Jeeju would have to pay dearly to get his shoes back and the girls could celebrate a win over the boys.



"Adi, where is your head?" asked Romeo angrily as Adi continued to stare at Pinky's retreating form.

"I asked her to marry me. She said yes, and then she left," came the indistinct reply.

"You love struck idiot! She left and so have the shoes. Now what are we going to do?"

Adi suddenly came to himself and began stammering, unable to believe his girlfriend had hoodwinked the shoes out of him. Or was that fiance? He had no idea and began running after Pinky, determined to find out if she had really agreed to marry him, or if she had just been playing a trick. He didn't even care she was surrounded by giggling girls, laughing in amusement at his predicament. Even Pinky had fun at his expense, cleverly evading his questions and toying with his emotions, before finally confirming that she had indeed agreed to become his wife.

"But don't think this means that you will get the shoes back just like that," she said with attitude. "You lost them, and so you boys will have to pay dearly to get them back."

Well, the boys couldn't let that go without a fight. They did their best to steal the shoes back. When that didn't work, they haggled relentlessly, not willing to give into the girls' demands, especially when it came time for Dev to join his bride for their Suhaag Raat. Dev was almost as bad as Maan at spoiling their fun, for he also felt it was better to pay any amount demanded by the girls, than be kept from his bride a moment longer than he had to.

In fact, the only person who could take him away from his wife was his daughter. Once they were back from their honeymoon, the adoption was finalized. Dev was so happy to officially be Anjali's father that he couldn't seem to spend enough time with the child. Meera didn't really begrudge the time he spent with their daughter, for she loved the little girl just as much as he did, but sometimes she had to put her foot down. That was certainly true when she wanted her husband to hang some paintings for her and he was more interested in playing with Anjali.



"Is this good?"

"I think it needs to be moved a bit more to the left."

"What about now?"

"No, that was too far."

"Meera, how long is this going to take? I promised Angel that we would go to the park."

"Oh I see how it is," said Meera, crossing her arms and giving her husband a stern look. "Taking Angel out to play is more important than helping your wife. That tiny girl has you so wrapped around her little finger that I bet you would have brought her along on our honeymoon if she asked."

"Don't think you can try and pretend with me, I know you too well. You love that little girl as much as I do. She's fast becoming a spoiled brat from all the attention you give her," accused Dev as he was finally able to let go of the picture and put his arms to better use, namely hugging his wife.

"This from the man who buys every toy he can find and keeps giving in to 'just one more story, Papa,' when your devil in angel disguise tries to get out of going to sleep."

Well, Dev couldn't let such a remark go unpunished, even if it was by the girl's mother and in jest. Said mother was securely held in his arms, and he wasn't going to let her go any time soon. Meera gave the obligatory protest, but eagerly wrapped her arms his neck. Things were just starting to get interesting when the sound of little feet could be heard running downs the mansion's hallways.

"Mama, Papa, Mama, Papa," came the little voice of Anjali as she skidded into their room.

"What is it, Angel?" asked Dev, leaving his wife's embrace to pick up their daughter.

"Papa, Tayaji said that we are having a baby now."

"What? What exactly did Tayaji say?"

"Tayiji was crying and saying to Tayaji that it's all his fault and then Tayaji picked her up and carried her down the stairs. When I asked him what was happening, he said that it's time to have the baby now. Then he took Tayiji away. Papa, where was Tayaji taking Tayiji?"

"To the hospital."

"Why?"

"So that Tayiji can have her baby."

"Ohhh. Mama, I want to see the baby!"

"You will, Anjali, but we have to wait until Tayaji and Tayiji bring the baby home," responded Meera.

Anjali pouted, not happy with that idea as she wanted to she the baby right away. Dev reminded her of their plans to play in the park. This distracted her for awhile, as she always loved playing with her Papa, but eventually her requests to see the baby started up again. It lasted for the two days that Geet was in the hospital and until Meera finally announced the third morning that her aunt and uncle were bringing the new baby home.

Anjali was very excited to see her new sibling. When she was allowed to hold the baby while sitting on the couch, she followed all her mother's instruction exactly. She oohed and aahed over the tiny little girl who grabbed onto her finger tightly. Then, like any normal, inquisitive child, she asked her parents when they were going to have a baby. With the other adults smiling, Dev coughed and looked embarrassed as his wife indicated that he should answer his precious daughter.

"We don't know when Mama and I will have a new baby, only God knows that, Angel. Right now we just want to have some time with our first baby," said Dev, hoping that would be the end of the questions.

"First baby?" continued Anjali, still in her question mode. "What baby is that?"

"What baby is that?" repeated Dev. "The same baby who was asking me to be taken out for ice cream, that's what baby."

Anjali frowned and complained, "Papa, I'm not a baby, I'm a big girl!"

"Oh really?" questioned Dev as he passed the baby back to Geet before picking Anjali up and tickling her until she begged him to stop. Finally setting the little girl down he said, "You may be a big girl, but you'll always be my baby."

Meera thought that her husband and daughter's naatak had gone on long enough. Intervening with authority, she said that if they were going for ice cream, then they should go right away, otherwise it would be time for dinner. Anjali definitely wanted ice cream, so she agreed at once. Before they left, she innocently asked if Tayaji and Tayiji wanted to come for ice cream too. Maan and Geet both thanked Anjali for the invitation, but explained they would stay home with the baby and she should have fun with her parents and Dadima.

With the rest of the family going out, though they promised to bring back some ice cream, Maan and Geet were left alone to get settled in with the new baby. Geet had helped take care of many infants at the orphanage, so she felt very comfortable handling the baby. Maan had tried practicing before the baby was born, but even that had not prepared him for how small his newborn child would be. Geet was very patient with him, giving him lots of encouragement. Soon both Maan and Geet were experts in caring for their child, complimenting each other and working as a team. There was just one problem that they had yet to resolve.



"Maan, can you believe how sweet and precious she is? It's still hard for me to believe that we finally have our very own little baby, and she looks just like her father."

"I have to disagree with you on that. My little Geeta is a perfect replica of her beautiful mother."

"Maan, stop calling her that!" pouted Geet, glaring at her stubborn husband angrily. "I've told you before, she's not a 'Geeta'. Maansi is a perfect name and suits her. Come. Just come and look at her. Look at her mouth. It's exactly like yours."

"But her eyes, when they're opened, are exactly like yours and you know the saying, 'Eyes are windows to the soul'. That means that she's just like you."

"Are you two still name arguing?" questioned Savitri, shaking her head in exasperation as she entered the bedroom. Walking over to the infant's crib, she picked her up and asked, "Are Mama and Papa bothering you with their constant arguing? My poor poti. If things go on like this, you'll never get a proper name. Well, never mind, Dadima is here. She has chosen a beautiful name for you, and no one will be able to argue about it."

Giving Maan and Geet a glare that said "dare you go against me", Savitri continued talking softly to the yawning infant. "Tomorrow, when your Papa holds you for the naming ceremony, he will whisper the name 'Krisha Kalyani Khurana'. All three of your names are very important family names, and they are what you will be known by for the rest of your life."

Walking over to Maan, Savitri handed little Krisha to her father, saying, "I believe your daughter is in need of her father's expert care. Goodnight."

Maan quickly discovered what his dadima meant by her comment. After he very expertly changed his daughter's diaper, he cradled her lovingly until she began to protest for a different type of parental attention. Geet took over then, satisfying the baby's hunger for nourishment and motherly affection. Once her belly was full, the youngest Khurana member slowly drifted off as her mother rocked her to sleep. Her parents went back to their previous discussion, but with an added twist.

"Krisha Kalyani Khurana?" questioned Geet, looking at uncertainly. "I liked Maansi."

"And I liked Geeta," stated Maan. "But, Dadima is right. Krisha was the name of grandfather's mother, and Kalyani was a name carried by one of our ancestors."

"If we decide to name her Krisha Kalyani..."

"Dadima will be happy. Yet I think I hear some hesitation in your voice."

"Maan, don't you think three k names is a little much?"

"I don't know, I think Krisha Kalyani Khurana has a nice rhythm to it. How about this? Why don't we ask the little princess what she thinks?"

Taking his tiny daughter gently from her mother's arms, Maan asked softly, "Do you like the name Krisha, Beti? Krisha?"

Almost like magic, the baby yawned and then smiled, moving slightly so her face was turned toward her father. Not quite sure of what she saw, Geet repeated the name and the child, though still asleep, smiled and moved her head the other direction towards her mother. On the chance that it was all just coincidence, Maan waited a few moments, then repeated the entire name. When she once again smiled and turned toward her father, it was absolutely amazing to Maan and Geet.

"She never did that with any of the other names," commented Geet.

"She couldn't possible recognize the names, could she?" asked Maan in confusion.

"Of course not, she's not even a month old yet. Maybe she likes the sounds," replied Geet, having no other way to explain her daughter's response.

"Well, what my little girl likes, is what she will get. Beti, from this moment on you'll be our little Krisha, Krisha Kalyani Khurana, Delhi's princess, and the most beautiful baby ever born."

Both Maan and Geet gazed with loving fondness at their daughter, before Geet said, "Alright, Papa, thank you for the compliments, but it's time for baby to sleep in her crib."

Maan just shook his head, and said, "I want to hold her just a little longer."

"Maan, you have the rest of your life to hold her, now come at put her down."

"Not unless you give me something."

"Give you something?" Geet looked at her husband like he was crazy. "What exactly am I supposed to give you?"

When Maan moved his lips to indicate a kiss, Geet blushed, complaining, "Maan, not in front of the baby!"

"Geet, she's a baby, she doesn't know the difference. Besides, she's sleeping." Maan carefully held Krisha with one arm, using the other to pull his wife close.

"She'll wake up," Geet protested.

"She's fast asleep and won't wake up for a few hours," countered Maan, pulling Geet even closer.

"It's not fair, the way you look at me with your eyes. I can't think straight."

"Then don't think at all."

Slowly, so as not to wake the sleeping infant, Maan edged closer to Geet. When she put up no struggle, not wanting to awaken their daughter, he gently brushed his lips to hers, not just once, but repeatedly. Geet couldn't resist and eventually she became a full participant in the tender expression of their love. Unknown to her parents, Krisha smiled again, happy to be in her parent's arms, and with the knowledge that she was the ultimate expression of their love.

So, I finally updated, yay! Yes, this is laxmi2010, but I'm writing from my pm id. That's something that I will be doing sometimes now, and also, if there is anyone reading who is not on my pm list, but wants to be, you can easily ad this id as a buddy. So, the truth is that I've been 100% well for about two weeks, but it is now the holiday season in the US, which means that one of my jobs has started to go crazy. I've been getting more hours, and there was a lot to wrap up at the end here, so it took me a while to get it together.

Wait, this is supposed to be some interesting facts, right?

Interesting Facts for Chapters 16-20

I don't actually have any "facts" this time. Instead I'm going to talk about some of the bigger plot differences between my story and the original in these last chapters and why I made the changes.

So, I never really like how Bella never even questioned John on why he kept such a secret from her for so long, but not only that, she wasn't even angry with him. It is somewhat understandable as Bella was quite mercenary, but still. John loved Bella so much, yet he hid such an important thing from her, even after more than a year of marriage and having a child together. It seems wrong. As Geet was never as selfish as Bella, and basically never did anything wrong, I felt she had a real right to be upset with Maan. Yet, I didn't mind her forgiving him pretty quickly, as his intentions were understandable, and she knew him very well.

In Dickens original story, it took being almost murdered for Eugene to realize that the love he had for Lizzy meant he should also respect her by marrying her and giving her support and companionship for the rest of their lives. Eugene was a fairly selfish person, and I didn't want to go that route with Dev. I preferred that his struggle be about finding his true family, which he did. If their is any similarity between Eugene and Dev, I would say that in their original characters they were attracted to outside beauty, and satisfying their own desires, but by the end of the story they came to understand that inner beauty is more important.

Hopefully I was able to wrap up everything successfully, but if anyone has any questions, please do ask.

In the mean time, I will be working on the next update of Aankhon Mein Teri, as well as finalizing my next story. If you haven't yet checked out this post, Help laxmi2010 with her next MG story, please do. I'm going to be taking a last look at the results in the next week.

res.

finally u updated.
nice ending..
please update the other one also.