Taming the wild
Part-71
Neither mine nor yours
Recap:- Armaan faces his worst fears
The gentle tick tock of the clock thundered in the veriest silence of the room. Everyone was deep in their thoughts when Virendra's sigh brought them back." I wonder if he was better without knowing that truth.. it took us all years to pull him out of that darkness, I don't want him to get drown in that hopelessness again"
" that won't happen papa. We won't let that happen to him.. I know how you feel about it but if we've left it as it is it would have only got worse and the fear would have haunted him for the rest of his life. I've seen him haunted by those terrors and i really didin't wanted him to suffer any more... but to fight back his fears it was important for him to know them.. I only wished the truth wasn't that horrifying.. I just.. never imagined it could be this hurting..."
" then what did you think?! Thar they were a bunch of petty amateur criminals playing around for some easy cash!"
" Rahul! it's not her fault!. Don't you blame her or raise your voice on her for anything! " BP's reprimanding tone silenced Rahul immediately. He slumped back on the chair. Suddenly this idea of therapy started looking like a very bad decision.
" I'm sorry bhaiyya I really didn't anticipated that things were that bad... had I had any idea.. slightest of hint, I'd have may be not gone ahead with the whole thing... I never wanted to see him in any pain I just wanted him to get rid of them.."
The tears flowed down from her eyes making him feel guilty.. the poor thing was obviously trying for the best and he required no proof to know how much she loved Armaan. Rahul realised he was being unreasonable to lash out on her, she after all wanted what was best for Armaan and not to forget he among others supported her to make Armaan see Shishir for the therapy.. he let out a deep breath rubbing his moist eyes, Muskaan squeezed his shoulder gently assuring him of her support " I.. I'm sorry Ridhhi.. it's just I feel so helpless.. you didn't see how he was after chhoti ma. And I really don't want that to happen again..." Ridhhima assured him that she didn't mind it a bit and now that they are all together they won't let him slip back in the darkness again.
He nodded " that still leaves us with one more question. What about his room.. why he's so scared of going there? Did he say anything about that? "
" No, he didn't. In fact Shishir didn't push him that far. It was already too much for one time, he said probably because Armaan's fear started after that incident he might recall it himself .. but we have to wait till he comes out with it own his own.." Rahul nodded lightly while others still sat silently trying to absorb the painful facts they'd come to know that day..
The clock struck 10. Armaan still slept. Peacefully or not as hard to say but for the past four hours since he fell asleep he didn't even stirred, his face looked pale.. so tired and drained out as if he'd walked miles in the sun.. Everybody retired to their rooms, though neither of them wanted to but she knew they need some time too. Virendra was reluctant but BP took care of it, she could clearly see where Rahul got his protective instincts from.
Lying by his side she kept caressing his hair wondering if he could feel her touch but this time could not get any sign of recognisation.. sleep was miles away from her eyes.. all she wanted, wished was to have something that could take away all the pain in his heart.. to be something that could bring him peace.. and she promised she would love him so much that the will be no place left for any doubt or fear al all. Planting a sift kiss on his temple she closed her eyes spooning him, securing him with her love..
She woke up feeling something stirring by her side, but then quickly realized it wasn't something but someone. Switching on the bedside lamp instantly she raised herself on the elbow only to find Armaan twisting his head in his sleep. Her heart started beating rapidly, was he seeing those terrible dreams again.. she tried shaking him up gently but he didn't seem to hear or feel it. " Armaan.. Arm.." she stopped, no sooner she cuped his face her worries increased further, he was burning with high fever. Throwing off the covers she instantly got on her feet and rushed to get her medical bag.
The fever was quiet high and though she tried her best it was nowhere to being down till morning. For the past sixteen hours he was rocking between the state of being asleep to unconscious to semi conscious. Shishir and Shashank, who was now there with Padma updated on the situation, agreed that it was a natural reaction of body to some painful emotional turmoil. But Ridhhima couldn't be consoled by all these scientific theories, she wanted her Armaan back.. he hadn't opened his eyes.. looked at her for what felt like eternity. Every passing minute was a test of her patience and she'd cursed herself for doing all this. No matter what she tried the answer was the same, she landed him in this position. Rahul was right, what good did it bring to him.. to the family.. to her..
Feeling a hand on her shoulder she turned around wiping her eyes quickly " Ridhhima, what are you thinking beta. Give him the injection " Shashank stood by her side, it was such a relief.. her father has always been her pillar of strength her unconditional support.. but since Armaan came in her life she'd almost forgotten him and here he is, like he had always been, always there but never seen. Another wave of guilt washed through her, she'd been so self centered. The tears which were already threatening to spill broke the barriers.
For the first time in her life her hands were shaking " I.. I can't papa. I can't.. I have no strength.. after knowing everything, how can I.."
But before Shashank could say anything Virendra stepped forward putting an arm around her shoulder " Ridhhima.. listen to me beta." Gently wiping off her tears he looked into her eyes " I know what you're thinking.. but what they did and what you are doing are entirely different. You would be the last person who could even think of hurting Armaan in any manner.." standing before her he held her by the shoulders " you have to be brave Ridhhima. For Armaan's sake. Its not going to be easy for him and he'd need your support to be his pillar of strength.. And didn't you said that it was necessary to face the fears than to run from them.. now that he knows help him fight them. Do you remember how you told me that I should stop hiding myself behind Armaan's fear and accept the truth.. and trust me since then I've found Naina even more closer to me.. Armaan needs to do the same and only you can help him with that.. just remember that we are there right by your side always.."
" And you're my brave partner after all! Together we can do it! " with BP's encouraging words and hopeful smiles on others faces she found her fears and guilt ebbing away.. and through her misty eyes she could see it all, everybody present there.. her family her strength.. what can't she do now. Wiping off her tears she nodded, managing a small smile even.. she'd nothing to fear now.
Everybody came down to see off Shishir. The family was trying their best to recover from the shock of their lives and Shishir did his best to guide them through it.. being the witness of a terrifying incident it was bit easier for BP and Virendra to accept the facts but others were still trying ".. sometimes.. " Shishir said " it is easy to forget the things you know than the things you don't. Not knowing is what keeps you awake, poking you day in and out nagging you to remember them. Accepting makes it easier to deal with them and withtime they fade away.. and in Armaan's case if he can't forget them then I'm at least hopeful that it dulls with time... in my experience happiness of the present has always managed to overshadow the pain of the past.. with a wife like Ridhhima and family like yours around him its the bet I can safely make "
Armaan stirred, but every pore of the body seemed to repell the idea and the head seemed to spin along with the earth. Squinting the eyes he tried to focus on the things around and though the room wasn't that bright with morning light, or was it afternoon.. rubbing his eyes he threw a glance at the watch which confirmed his doubts, it showed 1 in the afternoon. And then slowly it all came back.. the dull ache was still there in the heart along with the throbbing one in the head.. he remembered everything coming back from Shishir's.. feeling helpless and terribly angry and miserable.. and then he recalled breaking down before Ridhhima. She made him lie on the bed.. her soft words still lingered on like a faint fragrance.. he couldn't recall what they were but he could feel, remember her puling him away from all that darkness that was trying to wrap him up eat him.. that must be a dream but for the first time that didn't scare him off.. he felt like stopping and challenging that dark thing.. he wasn't alone anymore there were others too.. who?..
A sudden throbbing pain stopped his trail of thoughts and a sudden realization dawned. He was alone now. Where was Ridhhima?.. where was everyone else?!.. fear started seeping in again.. he called her out as loud as he could manage.. but nobody came.. she wasn't around " Ridhhima.. Ridhhima!!.." his worries increased by the minute as weird thoughts creeped in, has she left him again? Has she gone away? Or.. something happened! ..the last thought scared the hell out of him. Throwing off the covers he sat up but weak as he was his head spinned badly, holding it between his hands he tried to stop it to go and look for her himself
Before he could even get up Ridhhima rushed in with Leo trotting right behind her. He didn't notice the dog before was he here all this while. But everything was forgotten as she wrapped him in a quick hug. Life returned to his body as soon as he felt her arms around him and that soothing fragrance started its magic. Holding her tight he rested his head on her shoulder, her absence cared him to death.. so much so that for a moment he actually thought she'd nine away too.. just like.. he immediately squeezed his eyes shut stopping himself from thinking any such thing.. Ridhhima felt his grip tighten around her and concern took over
" Armaan.. what happened? Are you okay? " she kept stroking his back pacifying him like a scared baby but somewhere she knew the reason " what happened honey.. did you see another bad dream hmm? Is it the headache baby.. you have high fever.."
Well that explained the throbbing and aches. But as the relief came back with her next to him anger rose in his heart " where were you? Why did you leave me?. You promised you won't leave and still you left me.." he had no idea what he was saying, he just came to know that those haunting dreams were not merely the dreams and that made them even more scarier.. and when he didn't find Ridhhima next to him it felt like they have become a reality once again.
Ridhhima could understand what he must be feeling, his racing heart left her in no doubt " Armaan.. baby.. relax. I just went out for an errand, I was just gone for a minute sweetheart.." she caressed back of his head squeezing him gently in her embrace while rubbing his back, reassuring him of her presence.
" No. You lied. Why did you go?" Though he sounded irritated yet he clung on to her tighter as if she'd vanish if he didn't held her tightly. " Armaan main.. " but she stopped midway, she knew that reasoning with him at present would be useless he was scared and ill and has just faced his most terorising fears. Deciding on something else she brought a little soft chirpiness in her tip one " Armaan.. look at me baby " reluctantly he broke the hug, she looked into his eyes they were red and little puffy he looked pale with fear and sadness clear on the face, it twisted her heart to see him like that but bracing herself she put on her brave face combing back his messy hair which fell on his forehead " Can I ever leave you for anything hmm? I just went out for a minute. But I'm sorry. I promise I won't ever leave your side for anything.." she looked into his eyes deeply trying to convey the sincerity of her words " you are my life Armaan, my everything. I can never even dream of being away from you.. you know I love you. Don't you? " he nodded, cupping her hand that held his face. It was really reassuring to know that " I'm right here by your side. No matter what.. okay " seeing him relax with that promise relief rushed back in her heart, planting soft kisses on both the cheeks and forehead she smiled " ab khush hmm! " his lips twitched making way to a small smile and that felt like being hit by warm sunrays on a cold winter day, a very cold day.
It took him time but he managed to gather himself and start for a new day again, it had been both tough and easy this time...tough to accept that what happened was the truth, a sad bitter truth he could never change, and easy because this time he felt prepared.. he wasn't in the dark any more chased by the foul evil shadows, this time he was ready to challenge them.. they won't be able to keep him away from his mother any more. He probably could not put it in words how blessed he felt for the family he had... eternally thankful for the soul mate who was by his side through everything, gave courage and support in the darkest hours.. Life still had hope love and promises for him.. yet, there would be a part in his heart for the one whose presence he missed the most in his life.. but she'd be there always. More he thought about it more he wanted to relive those cherished memories, there was a lot of lost time to make up for, lot of dust to remove.. cobwebs to clean...
And taking a step forward to the promise he made to himself, to Ridhhima, that he'd leave the pain behind and keeping the sweet memories in his heart he'd move ahead, he stood there in his childhood room.. the very place that once scared the hell out of him, it didn't feel half as frightening now. It would be a lie to say he wasn't scared, yes he was.. it took him couple of days to even gather enough courage to come back here and when he finally did no less than an hour just to open the door. And then standing on the threshold he waited, for all those screams and laughs to fill his ears.. for that mind numbing buzz to cloud his mind and fade all the senses.. but.. nothing happened. For the first time in years the room was quiet, not the dead quiet but just.. quiet. There was nothing, absolutely nothing. The sunlight filtered through the windows and he could see the garden from there.. hear the birds chirping on the tree whose branches now reached the side of the balcony. He smiled remembering how he eagerly waited for that to happen as a child, wishing the tree to grow as fast as it could so that he could slip down into the garden to play slipping down from its branches every time his mom made him sit and do his homework, locking the door from outside. Smiling at the memory he slowly walked to the table running the fingers on the books.. lamp.. on the toys.. his trampoline on which he jumped for hours like an overexcited chimp, his mum said so once, and how sometimes even she joined in all the childish fun. It all felt like yesterday.. and the pain from still fresh wounds returned.. eyes got misty as every touch brought back millions of memories.. how trival it seemed then and how priceless it was now..
Walking towards his room Virendra suddenly stopped, the door of 'the' room was open. Wondering and worrying he quickly got there only to be surprised again seeing Armaan standing inside. Facing the wall he seemed all consumed in all those photographs hanging in there. He didn't even seem to notice him, only when he gently placed a hand the shoulder Armaan seemed to realize he wasn't alone. Mildly startled he wiped off the eyes quickly,and turned to find his father standing by his side. His effort to hide his moist eyes were in vain but Virendra decided against saying anything, these days it was rather hard for him to keep a check his emotions as well..
" Armaan why are you doing in here son? "
" Dad.. nothing, just... aap kab aaye? " he tried forcing a smile, it wasn't much convincing.
" Armaan.." Virendra looked in to his eyes but Armaan lowered his gaze. " I'm your father Armaan, you can't lie to me.." hearing the soft voice he looked up at his father again, this time he did manage a small smile. But it was little too strange for Virendra, seeing Armaan in a place he'd always avoided but then may be he's actually coming out of his fears, like Shishir said, but he still felt the need to ask " are you okay? "
Armaan let out a deep sigh " Yes dad, I'm fine. Much better.." and this time Virendra knew he wasn't lying. " I just came to meet mom" turning to face the pictures he smiled " I almost forgot how beautiful she was. And how handsome I was even as a child "
Virendra chuckled softly " not bragging but there's lot more of me in you than you give credit for"
Armaan looked at his father then at the picture on the wall then back again " nah! I think I have more of mom in me. I bet she must've had a huugge fan following in her days "
" Oh don't ask! That was a hell of a competition I went through. And then making her agree to marry me wasn't an easy task either. You know she made me run after her courting for almost two years! Always keeping me on tenterhooks " he chuckled
"Two years! Woah! That's long enough for BP to have twenty new girlfriends!. Heck you never told me all this before!"
" We.. we never talked about her before.." both went quiet for a moment gazing at the big framed photograph of Armaan in Naina's arms right in the center of other pictures smiling at the camera, it was clicked by Virendra just weeks before that unfortunate day. How happy they were, so excited to plan the best birthday party for their son.. how excited she was..
" yeah. We never talked about her.." he turned facing Virendra " but, now I want to know everything.. I want to know my mother dad.." the tears that were till then kept at bay broke the barriers.. Virendra hugged Armaan, sharing the pain of loss and happiness of welcoming the forgotten one back.
Unaware of the presence of a pair of eyes who watched them they sat down on the floor facing the wall.. father and son talked like two long lost friends of the first most important woman in their lives.. Ridhhima wiped her tears..smiling after days, relieved that things were getting into place and every new day made the pain little less and courage to face it more. She left them for some much needed father and son time..
" Armaan here's the juice " keeping the glass on the table she started picking up his files all strewn on the table in a hurry, Muskaan would be expecting her in the kitchen soon " take your medicines and papa is calling you.. and what do you want for dinner? Armaan.." getting no response she tuned around with armful of files when her eyes fell on some cd's lying on the bed. They were all marked, ranging from our wedding- Virendra and Naina's- to Armaan's first birthday and others. Not sure if it was a good idea to emotionally expose him to so many things she looked around but couldn't find him there.. he was standing out in the balcony.
Feeling a hand on the shoulder he turned around " hey.." he smiled. " hey. " she said softly slipping an arm in his " what are you doing here? "
" just watching the moon.. stars.. don't they look so bright today" she nodded smiling, there was silence for a moment but she wasn't feeling easy the thought whether he was okay bothered her especially with those Cd's lying inside. She wondered who got them? Was it him or someone was careless " Armaan.." he replied with soft hmm " there are some Cd's inside.. did you.."
" Oh yeah, I got them from dad. And I'm fine " seeing her tense up he felt the need to assure her, she'd been so worried for him all this time, he didn't wanted to add any more to it but she was the one with whom he felt like sharing everything and in the past few days they'd done just that. How light it felt now, like a huge boulder had been lifted off his chest. He couldn't thank god enough to have her in his life, she'd been his pillar of strength, his light in darkness, his solace during the ordeals.. how patient, loving and caring she'd been. He paused for a moment holding her hand kissing her palm " You don't have to worry so much.." tucking a strand of hair behind her ear he gave a soft smile " I'm doing just great.."
" You don't have to lie to me Armaan. I know you inside out.." cupping his face she looked into in his eyes " you're missing mom.. aren't you? " he sighed, though he tried to hide it she could still see the shade of sadness in his eyes. Armaan knew it was useless to lie..
He lowered his gaze exhaling a breath " ten years!.., sound like a very long time but how much can one remember of that as a child.. by the time I could make any lasting memories she was gone... and all I'm left with are those small tidbits which are already fading. Those horrors.. unfortunately, are the ones that seem like would last forever.." he looked up at her again " I don't want that Ridhhima! I want to remember my mom and smile, remember the fun times.. the times like when she read me bedtime stories!, made me those funny face sandwiches and was my partner in all those stupid things we did. Why can't it be like that?! "
" You really don't have to worry about that baby.. in case you haven't noticed you already have what you want" he looked bit puzzled " just now when you remembered her you didn't remember those horrors, but all the things she did for you and things you both did together, the good time you spent with each other.. isn't it proof enough that this is what would last forever. Trust me Armaan, one day you will find yourself looking up at her with a broad smile on your face without tormenting yourself that you didn't tried harder " he didn't need to say that in words, she knew he still felt that way " it wasn't your fault Armaan. You did what no one at that age could even dream of. I'm sure Naina mom is watching you right now and she'd be swelled with pride that you are her son. Right.." he nodded " now show me those dimples and go and see papa, he's waiting for you "
He nodded, breaking his silence after a momentary pause " but.. there's a charge for that " it gave way to her smile instantly and as soon as he flashed those dimples got a kiss for each.
" gosh I'm stuffed! " he declared stretching himself " okay guys I'm off. Have some files to go through plus it's going to be a long day tomorrow " after few days of off from work his workload was really calling for some attention.
" okay, but how about some ice cream before that. Got your favorite Danish scotch choc today " she smiled tempting him to his greatest weakness. It always did wonders to his mood.
" hmmm.. tempting. But I think I'll pass. Don't feel like today " wishing everyone goodnight he walked away leaving a surprised Ridhhima being. It was Muskaan who brought her back from her thoughts.
" Did he just said 'No' to Ice cream?!! I never thought I'd live long enough to see the day "
" Neither did I " Rahul replied " he seemed okay today, but this a shocker! I wonder why? " Ridhhima's thoughts trailed to the convo she had a while ago. She was just wondering if she should say something about those CD's to Virendra when he spoke up.
" I know why " all heads jerked to his direction
" You do? " BP voiced their question " I hope it's nothing serious "
Virendra exhaled a deep sigh " another shock. Yes. Is it serious ? Frankly after knowing the truth I'm not sure if anything else can be more serious. But he seems to be taking the new found information stoically.. even asked me for the old family videos.. wasn't sure but Shishir said to go ahead and Armaan was really eager.." that answered the question bothering Ridhhima. She consoled herself considering that if Shishir thought it was fine to go ahead with then Armaan must be ready for it, especially when he was brave enough to go in that room all by himself.
" so does that mean he.." Rahul's sat up with something that suddenly striked him.
" Yes. He told me why that room bothered him.. why Naina's pictures always troubled him so much..." everybody went still all ears to know more " Naina's pictures were his triggers, they linked him with all those horrible memories and as he wasn't prepared then it always disturbed him.. but that problem is solved now, if not completely then almost.."
" And the room? Is that a trigger too ?" BP asked
" In a way.. but it has a completely different story.. and now that I know, it makes me feel all the more wretched. It was going on right before our eyes and we, I, didn't even notice! "
" But what did he say chachaji? " Muskaan asked
" It was that bloody Kamal!. " he said gritting his teeth with utmost contempt and loathing " do you remember bhaisaab how he shed those crocodile tears after the accident at the hospital.. and put a pretty convincing act.. buttering us with that sugar coated tongue of his, especially Vibha bhabhi. I remember what he said I'll be there to support my family" huh! We were nothing but a gold mine for him. The day we allowed him in the family trusted him was the biggest mistake of our lives, no wonder people don't trust outsiders "
" Outsiders?! " Ridhhima asked, confused.
" Yes. He wasn't my real uncle " Rahul cleared " some distant cousin of mom who came looking for a chance to make a living, won our trust and in return left us with pain enough to last life time "
" the only reason he wanted to stay close and around was to make sure that Armaan doesn't points his finger at him before the cops. He knew well that Armaan has seen him with the goons and as he wasn't expecting him to escape their clutches he wanted to get rid of him with first possible chance.. but thank god couldn't get the right opportunity.. and later when he came to know about Armaan's failure to recall anything he wanted to make sure that it wasn't a ploy from us to corner him.. in fact all the while he stayed here he used to sneak into his room every night threatening to hurt him in most painful ways if he as much as looked at him pointedly.. he was often beaten..'
" Now I see why he never wanted to be left alone.. he always used to cling on to mom.." Rahul recalled " and That's why there were always some fresh bruises on him! " the information suddenly put many things in place. " Damn! I knew something was fishy!! Damn! " Rahul punched the table shaking everything on it.
" It's not your fault beta. We were too preoccupied with grief to notice anything.. the man had a flair for lies" Virendra patted Rahul's shoulder calming him.
' and to think of it that we let our child go along with him willingly.. I shudder to think what he could've have done if the truth wasn't unveiled on time " BP stifled a shudder." No wonder he didn't wanted to step his foot in that room.."
" If only he'd said anything, just a word.."
" we all wish the same Rahul but imagine the position of the child who suddenly comes to know that his mother is no more, has no idea how and what happened.. with a fortnight worth of memory lost, wiped off!. Moreover, someone he trusted is suddenly threatening, beating, looking for the chance to take away his life! For the reasons unknown.. What could that child possibly have done? When your whole life turns upside down and nothing makes sense words often fail to match the feelings.."
" But papa.. you told me before that that man, Kamal, was caught.."
" Yes, the detectives we employed got us proof enough and Kamal was arrested but the man culprit who's brother was Kamal's partner, that Mukund." Fire blazed in Virendra's eyes as he spat that abominable name " he managed to escape. Fortunately before Kamal could do anything sinister, not that he hadn't done it already, he was arrested. There was proof enough to link him to the charges of fraud, drugs, fake medicines and even smuggling but unfortunately Inspite of everything the was no tangible proof to link him and Mukund to kidnapping and Murder.. the only person who could witness, the sole survivor of that car accident died before he could even utter a word.. And with Armaan having no inclination of what happened we were stuck. But the biggest blow came when Kamal managed to get out on bail.. and then eventually managed to flee the country "
" what!?? But how did he even managed that!? " Ridhhima couldn't believe what she heard.
BP sighed " false evidence's, gaping holes in our legal system, bribe and threat.. we acted as soon as we came to know and imagine when the authorities came to know that there was no such order from them. it was all fake and staged. They took action against some officers but the damage was done.. kamal escaped along with Mukund and since then we never heard of either of them. We tried to keep track through Mukund's business but they were all sold out long before... everywhere we tried it came to dead end... and after some time we thought it was better if we took care of what we had rather than what was gone "
" We never got any news on that front though I still have people on the lookout for them. And no, Armaan doesn't know anything about it. No one except me and Bhaisaab, until now." Rahul was on the verge of protest " I'm sorry Rahul but we thought it would be better of you kids were kept away from all this.. we don t even know if they are still alive or not, trust me there is not a moment when I don't wish them hell. I promise, the moment I lay my hands on either of them I will show them what it feels like to be in one " the fury in Virendra's tone left no me in any doubt of that. For a moment everyone fell silent. Ridhhima felt a hand gripping hers, it was Muskaan, and by the look on her face she seemed ready to pounce and claw the faces of those evil bas***ds. Ridhhima placed her other hand over hers, their eyes met sharing the feeling.. strengthening the will.
" Ridhhima, what took you so long?!! " he was clearly annoyed " didn't you hear me when I said I want to sleep " not giving any chance to reply he rested his head in her lap guiding her hand on his head for the message.
Ridhhima smiled, it was after days that he'd asked for it." Sorry.. you know naa when bhabhi starts with one of her sessions it is nearly impossible to leave in between " he chuckled, it was indeed a well known fact. Kissing his temple she started running her fingers in his hair softly " but I'm here now, so you go to sleep.."
" Hmm " it was a moment before he spoke again " Ridhhima.."
" hmm.."
He shifted, lying on his back to face her " I want to tell you something... something I didn't tell you before.." though Ridhhima had the idea what she waited for him to speak.. and she was right as he narrated everything what Virendra told her and others downstairs.
Hearing everything patiently she slipped by his side making him rest his head on her chest while she stroked his hair keeping him close " it's okay Armaan.. it's okay.. he's gone. You're with us now, with me.. now nothing is going to wrong ever. Trust me.." she sealed the promise with a kiss on his head.
" Yeah. This time I won't let anything go wrong. No one can hurt my family. They won't even dare to come near you or anyone else. I promise " he let out a deep breath closing his eyes. Ridhhima squeezed him in her embrace, it wasn't going to be easy to make him feel sure enough that no one was coming after her or anyone else in the family... the insecurities had been there for years, it won't be an overnight task to get rid of them. But at least they've started. The dawn was already there and soon they'd have sunshine back.
Balancing the phone between her ear and shoulder she directed the nurse to her post op patient holding some files under her arm while signing some papers simultaneously.. " haan baba kaha na aa rahi hun. Have patience Armaan!... Just give me ten minutes okay."
" Fine! But I'll call every minute after that." He warned
" Okay, your majesty. Now will you let me get my things ?" Disconnecting the call she shook her head smiling, it reminded her of not so old days. Things were kind of settling down now, a big surprise came when Shishir asked him to see him again for a while and he agreed. Without any condition!. His counseling had been of a lot of help yet, it wasn't like before. He wasn't like before.. there was something about him that was missing.. he wasn't that old Armaan and she had this nagging fear if things would be like that from now on...
But then her heart kept consoling that it is a phase he's going through and this too will pass... her old happy, chirpy.. crazy Armaan will be back soon. From wherever he's hiding. Exhaling a sigh she picked up her bag when her cell phone buzzed again. She chuckled, things like these- his impatience- kept her hopes alive. Throwing in couple of files hurriedly she picked up the call " Armaan it's not even five minutes! "
" Wao, you really can't think of anyone except him. Huh!?"
The voice surprised her " Uh, kaun? " she checked the number to be surprised again " Rohan?!! Is that you?!"
" Thank god! at least you still recognize my voice. I thought I'm forgotten.." he chuckled
" Common! How can that be possible?.. It's really pleasant surprise! "
" So, what's the hurry? "
" Uh nothing. Its just Armaan, I had some work and he's getting kind of impatient waiting out there. You know him naa.. so how's Swati? And the baby?! Gosh I'm dying to meet you guys, it has been ages! "
" Yupp I know. They both excellent she was here but the baby started crying. But don't try to change the topic. You disappointed me, us, Ridhhima."
" Disappointed!? But what did I do??"
" It's more what you didn't do. Why didn't you tell me about Armaan.. I was so surprised when I got to know this from Niki! And that too after such a long time. How come she knows and I don't?! Just because I'm not there doesn't mean you people will exclude me! "
" It isn't like that Rohan. Niki came to know that Armaan wasn't well and she dropped by to see him and.." she paused " It's not like we didn't wanted to tell you but..." she sighed " we all were trying to adjust to this new.. knowledge. It had been bit rough lately. Especially for Armaan "
" Exactly what I meant. Armaan was going through such a tough time and we were kept at bay! Forget about others, I'll handle them later but you! I thought we are good friends! "
" Rohan.." gosh these men were so difficult at times, she shook her head " you don't have to be so melodramatic about it. I did thought of telling you but it was Armaan who stopped me. And I think he was right. The whole family was trying to get out of the shock, Niki too came to know accidentally.."
" But still!!"
" Rohan plz don't be mad.. I really wanted to tell you but then I thought rather 'we' thought that it won't be nice to disturb you.. its not like its going to change anything and we just didn't wanted to dampen your happiness.."
" That's exactly where you are wrong. If it hadn't been you guys I wouldn't have got this happiness in first place!. He's my brother Ridhhima! How could I've just stayed here if he was in pain.! "
" And that's exactly why we didn't tell you. Swati and baby required you there more than us. Common Rohan plz. Don't be angry." she tried to calm him down " he really needed to comes to terms with what happened on his own.. he required some time alone. Trust me, he himself was going to tell you but was only waiting for the right time.."
He exhaled " So, how is he now..?"
" Better than before " she said, relieved " but.. not all that well. Knowing has solved few things but it will still take some time for the scars to heal. It's kind of slow.."
" Then let's fasten it! "
" What ? How? "
" By coming over there! "
She almost jumped hearing it " You are! You're coming to India!!? That's great!! "
" Yupp, All three of us. Then let's see how he remains pensive any more. But I want it to be a surprise for him so just don t go and Blabber it to him! "
She laughed " Yeah sure. And Rohan.."
" Yeah.."
" Thanks. You have no idea how much it means to us " but she was given a lecture in return on how not to bring formalities between friendship. She had to apologize to baba Rohan Kashyap. Feeling light she kept the phone back. Rohan's arrival will Indeed give Armaan much needed change.
The caravan of cars made its way bellowing blebs of dust on the roads of the outskirts. Rohan's visit indeed brought the desired effect. It was after days that she saw Armaan smiling and laughing freely, to add spice Niki came over with Abhi and that started another tug of war. Everybody was enjoying their banter. Niki along with Ridhhima declared that the reason they fight so much is that they were married in previous life and now by some divine mistake were given same gender, though they were really glad that they are not gay. Ridhhima then proceeded further narrating how she accidentally thought that Arman was gay, only his sweetheart was Rahul. Everybody rolled in laughter. This declaration caused momentary truce between the two making Rahul join the bechara misunderstood husband club..
Leo's loud bark brought her back from her dreamland, sticking his head out of the window he was enjoying the wind on his face his tail again set in rotating fan motion. Her eyes fell on Armaan who was driving, wearing white shirt and blue denims with his sunglasses he looked damn sexy!. What made her heart even more glad was that smile that was on his lips, it felt like forever since she saw it there.
Probably it was telepathic, he looked at her through rear view mirror and found her eyes on him, lowering his glasses he winked, thoroughly enjoying her surprised look. She was glad that Muski was deep into her magazine and Anjali was dosing off. They were now not far from their destination. Colour rose to her cheeks recalling the last time she was there, probably that was one of the reasons Armaan agreed to Rahul's decision of coming here. Now that she thought of it may be it was the reason he was grinning so much, heat rose to her already rosy cheeks and she knew he'd be enjoying it through the veil of his sunglasses, her glance in his direction confirmed h thoughts. Shaking her head she diverted herself in a small talk with Swati who was trying to make baby Roshan go to sleep.
An hour later their caravan of 5 cars and 23 people, that included Armaan Ridhhima Abhi Niki Sapna Amit Rohan Swati Chirag Aditi Rahul Muskaan Atul Anjali and in adults BP, Virendra Shashank Padma Martin and Maria and three nannies, stopped before the gates of their holiday home. Ridhhima felt all those memories flooding back.. she stood there gazing at the beautiful structure how warm it made her heart..
A soft voice broke her trance " thinking about me.." Armaan asked locking his fingers with hers. A soft smile played on his lips which widened when her blush answered his question, it had been quiet some time since they... and fate seemed to have brought them to a perfect place where they could start again. Putting an arm around her shoulder they made their way in. May be this was where she could find her old Armaan back.
" Okay then here are the teams. Captain Armaan you have Chiraag, Amit, BP and Virendra bhaisaab in your team " Padma announced like a professional announcer. She had to intervene when the argument over team distribution for the so called fun match reached to an unbearable point. She was surprised that her husband and Virendra were acting like kids too and BP he was shouting on the top of his lungs for the captain position. Cricket and men!!. " and captain Abhimanyu, you have Rohan, Rahul, Atul and Shashank in your team " there were mild protests from BP but one stern glare and everything was settled. A loud bark caught everyone's attention " and yes, Leo is going to play from both sides "
" What?!! He's a dog! " he glared at Leo who had his tongue stuck out and wagged his tail like a fan, Ridhhima had added fuel to the fire making him wear a white umpire cap " this kutte ka Bachha is never going to leave me alone anywhere! "
" Armaan, no arguments. If Leo doesn't play so will you." Padma cleared " direct orders from Ridhhima. Common he's intelligent and looks really eager to play " Abhi sniggered and others had hard time controlling their grin.
" It's okay Auntie. I have no problem if Leo plays for us. Isn't that right buddy " Abhi scratched Leo's ears getting an appreciative bark from his side.
" Excuse me. He's my dog " he pulled Leo to his side by the collar taking him little away, Leo glared at him ' you nutty master! Just a minute ago I was a just a dog! And now I'm
'your dog' you really can't see me loved by someone else. Mr.J. huh!. Just wait, I'll show you how not to mess with Leo The Great ' " what are you looking at? " Armaan asked looking down at Leo " You better make our team win or remember you will be last of your line " Leo whimpered " hmm that's better. I think you got the point " Leo ran from there, all set to make the team win, his master was after all a serious nut case what if he actually did that to him. Leo shook himself taking his position by the Umpire which happened to be one of the servants. Pad a blew the whistle announcing the match to be started.
" Thanks Auntie warna they'd have spent whole day in argument " Swati giggled." I'm surprised how kiddish they all can behave "
" others I can still understand but Shashank and Bhaisaab! One would expect them to behave but no they were the even bigger kids! The only gentleman I found there was Leo "
" that's so true but just don't let Armaan hear that warna you'll have the biggest baby to handle. And trust me it's not going to be easy " all the ladies laughed as she proceeded to narrate some of the Armaan Leo duels while men got busy with their game..
Rohan hit the ball and Atul ran to take the run.. Amit ran after the ball throwing it back to Armaan who caught it and ran even faster to the wicket while Rohan was trying to complete the second run.. Armaan skidded making it to the wicket just in time and everyone jumped when the umpire raised his finger declaring Rohan out.
Ridhhima who was watching everything from the patio smiled at the scene, for a while everything else was forgotten and she saw her Armaan that was kind of lost for the past few days. " Madam.. the lunch is ready " Martin announced
" Thanks Martin. I'll call them " he left, whole others were busy gathering around. The girls had fun time too, with babied fed and comfortably sleeping they had all the time in the world to catch up with each other. Padma showered them with all her motherly love and advices. All in all it was one of the finest days of her life " Guuuyyysss!! " she shouted at the top of her lungs " lluunncchhh!! " she waved gesturing them to come back.
The big tree near patio provided the cool shade and Martin had the area covered with carpet to sit on. As soon as they gathered around wifeys got busy pampering their tired warriors. Sapna gave a glass of juice to Amit while others chatted and fussed over their hubbies. Armaan crashed on the carpet lying flat on his back spread like an eagle. Picking up a glass of juice and a towel she went to him. No sooner she sat by his side he placed his head on her lap.
" Tired.." she asked wiping off the dirt and sweat off his face, he nodded smiling, even though he was tired yet he felt light and happy... coming here was a good idea indeed. Taking a deep breath he closed his eyes as she threaded his hair softly " Armaan.."
" hmm.." not bothering to open his eyes he he lay there basking in her love and enjoying all the pampering " show me that scrape "
His eyes flashed open " scrape! What scrape?? "
She wasn't expecting any other reply " the scrape you are trying to hide from me "
" but I'm not trying to hide anything ! There's noth.." but as she narrowed her eyes he stopped midway. That stern stare! Who the hell she got that from, then Padma's face flashed before him. It was the same look she gave to Shashank a while ago, these Gupta ladies could really kill with their eyes " it's nothing yaar. Why do you worry so much? "
" it's not like I have 4-5 Armaans with me! Now show me that scrape"
" were you spying on me with hawk eyes?! "
She chuckled " no I wasn't. May be because I know better than yourself.. But the way you pulled down your sleeve seeing me coming was clue enough "
" Damn! " she chuckled picking up the cotton ball with antiseptic." It'll sting! "
" no, it won't " she checked the scrape near his elbow probably caused when he skidded, it wasn't anything a band aid couldn't take care of.
" yes it will "
She exhaled, he really looked worried. Cupping his face she said softly " jaan trust me, it won't sting a bit. And if it does then jet let me know I will stop immediately.. just want to clear off that dirt okay.." he nodded still bit apprehensive. Getting the clearance she gently cleaned the cut and thankfully it didn't sting. " lo ho gaya. Did it hurt? " she asked placing a band aid, relieved he shook his head flashing his dimples " thanks " and before she could think she surprised him with a quick kiss on his cheek. Something she w dying to do for a long time.
" oye Armaan! Come here naa.." Atul shouted from the other end of patio. Armaan frowned.
" These haddis! They always disturb during my romance time! " Ridhhima grinned blushing.
" common go. Jijs is calling "
" okay okay, going. " he got up kissing her head making her smile even wider.
" Oye hoye.." Muskaan whistled coming to her side along with Swati ans Sapna " kya ho raha that yahaan hmm? " she wagged her brows teasing.
" same thing that was going on there." she pointed to Rahul and Amit through her eyes not a bit embarrassed by the teasing. Sapna blushed wondering if Ridhhima had seen Amit holding her hand under the table, but Muskaan, being Muskaan, was least affected.
" I'm telling you girls these stolen moments are what add spice. Just grab them where ever you can " she winked. " but I'm telling you girls be careful don't let these men take advantage of these mushy mushy moments. Last time I went soft with Rahul I ended up watching 50-50 cricket series and imagine that too when India wasn't playing! I tell you don't spoil them "
" Aww really! I never imagined poor Rahul bhaiyya could have his way with you !" Sapna giggled as a small frown came over Muskaan's face, but Ridhhima eased it away with a lovely side hug. If only Muskaan could understand that she'd watch any test series or whatever gladly that cute pout blackmail her into. She wanted to spoil him rotten.. love him crazy, just like he do. May be even more. Her gaze drifted to him where he stood talking to guys and as of it was telepathic he looked at her.. their eyes met and for that moment everything else stopped. The soft breeze became their messenger, carrying what their heart felt and eyes poured...
Edited by mansibharti - 13 years ago
