The Right Kind Of Wrong (AK) Ch 14 pg 24 - Page 17

Curious eyes searched the cozy living room looking around for her birthday present. She had acted nonchalant all day putting up a casual front, pasting the impatience and excitement she felt. Her eyes lowered in shy recalling his husky words, his sensuous touch. He made her feel so special, yet kept her feet grounded. Without the teasing and little fights, it just wouldn't be the same.

"Kripa, stop playing with your food" her mother scolded when she continued toying with her food, lost in her thoughts

She shook her head looking up at her mother self-consciously "sorry" she mumbled placing her fork down "I'm not really hungry"

"What happened?" her mother murmured leaning towards her "are you okay?"

She chuckled shaking her head "I'm fine Mama, just not feeling hungry. I think I drank too much coffee today"

Her mother sighed scooping some rice on a spoon "coffee's not food Kripa, have a little bit"

"Mama please" Kripa whined backing away from the rice "seriously my tummy's full"

Roshini sighed shaking her head "Okay, fine, I'll let you go today but I don't want to hear the same reason again. Too much coffee's not good for you anyways" she muttered picking up Kripa's plate.

Kripa wrinkled her nose in response, listening to her mother's lectures. She looked around anxiously then turned back, self-conscious of her families amused faces. She yawned catching their attention once again and looked sheepish "umm, I'm tired so I'm going to bed early" she mumbled getting up "goodnight" she wished grabbing her bag, then rushed upstairs, embarrassed.

They all burst into laughter while her mother continued muttering silent concerns under breathe.

Kripa frowned finding her bedroom door locked. She didn't remember locking it in the morning. She sighed digging for her key, silently cursing Angad. He had disturbed her peace and mind.

Finally finding her key, she shoved it into the keyhole then gasped when the door opened. A big grey teddy bear sat on her bed, holding a red heart cushion with the words 'I love you' imprinted. A bundle of red roses were stuffed between the teddy and cushion while a huge scrap book lay against the red cushion.

She looked back self-consciously then quickly walked into her room locking the door behind her. Smiling widely she rushed to her bed, laying the A3 sized scrapbook on her bed. She giggled like a teenage girl pulling the roses out of its nook, into her arms, then leaned back into the comfort of her new cuddly friend, opening the scrap book.

She gaped at a large photo of herself smiling shyly with her eyes lowered. The picture was taken in Masoori when they visited the park. She didn't know he had been clicking pictures of her, she thought with a slight frown. Her eyes moved to the opposite page where a short message was written, wishing her a Happy Birthday.

She gazed at his sweet words for minutes. She couldn't believe he had gone through so much effort for her. His words were sweet and alluring. Wiping her slightly wet eyes she turned the page and gasped gazing at a one year old Kripa tangled in towels, mouth agape in deep thought. How did he find this picture? She thought. Her eyes moved to the bottom of the page where he had commented in his neat elegant handwriting.

'You look adorable sweetheart, such a cutie pie. Wonder if you're just as cute now or is it more sensuous and sexy. Can't wait to find out ;)'

She pouted, frowning then smiled shyly at his alluring words "Duffer" she mumbled shaking her head then turned to the next page. She went through the whole book finding pictures of childhood to youth. Some comments were sensuous and some were witty, but they all left a lingering smile on her lips. He had left a picture of himself at the end, smiling sensuously, while his eyes glinted with mischief.

She moved forward, kissing his handsome profile then cuddled back into her new cuddly partner, holding the scrapbook and roses to her chest. A deep feeling of love and contentment filled her, while she dreamed of her charming prince with open eyes.

Groaning Kripa ambled to her cupboard. Her head felt heavy and she felt nauseous. She had skipped breakfast that morning, rushing out of the door before her mother noticed. Last night had been magical. She was completely overwhelmed with the feeling of love. As a result she had spent most of the night contemplating her relationship with Angad.

They had come a long way from their days of quarrels and teasing. Months ago he was nothing more than a nuisance, but now, now he was her life. She couldn't imagine a day without his smile, his teasing remarks and his soft touch. She still felt nervous around him, yet there was a sense of comfort when he was close.

"You have got to stop thinking of me all the time" She heard him whisper. She gasped turning towards his mischief filled eyes "not that I mind, I mean I am irresistible" he bragged pulling his collar up dramatically.

She laughed hitting his chest playfully "You're such a drama queen"

"No sweetheart, I'm the king. The last time I checked I was male"

She smiled rolling her eyes "Don't you have a class to get to?"

"I do, but I feel like teaching someone else something different" he hinted rolling his tongue in his mouth. A bashful smile graced her lips while her head moved forward to lean against his muscular chest. His grin softened to a loving smile while his hands moved up, caressing her silky tresses "so?" he asked after moments of serene silence "Did you like your gift?"

"Mhmm" she nodded "my teddy's cute"

He smiled at her hushed tone. He could feel the heat radiating from her cheeks, the slight nudge of her nose against his chest. It felt so right "And what about my card? How was my poetry?"

"Hmmm I don't know" her head tilted back, looking at him through thick lashes "Could've been better for a Music teacher" she teased

"Kripa" he groaned nuzzling her head "Please"

Her lips curled into a shy smile "it was sweet"

He swooped down pecking her nose "and the scrapbook?" he asked, grinning at her red face. She groaned diving into his chest once again, punching him lightly. He laughed holding her around the waist then moved his hand to hold her hidden face "tell me" he whispered

Her lashes fluttered timidly, while her gaze moved anywhere but at him. He groaned pressing his nose to her temple until she pulled away abruptly pouting, while a frown creased her forehead "Where did you get all those pictures?"

"Ahhh" he gawked at her in stupor then sighed scratching his head comically "Ummm"

"Angad" she whined "Where?" she grilled

"Your basement" he mumbled

"Basement?" she repeated confused

"Mhmm" he nodded "your basement in Masoori. I realized you left quite a few things in Masoori before you moved. I sat in your basement one night going through your pictures" he paused staring at her widened eyes "just out of curiosity" he added shrugging

"Angad" she frowned "You weren't supposed to see them"

"Well I've seen them now" he exclaimed pulling her closer "and might I add; you were a cute baby. We'll make cute babies"

She gasped flushing "Angad, have some shame"

He laughed holding her fidgety form "I know you still love me" he declared shamelessly

"Who said I ever loved you" she retorted

"You don't have to say it, I know" he murmured, his grin softened into a loving smile "You might not say it, but I know who this heart belongs to" he murmured holding her hand to her chest

She gasped at his sensual touch, gazing at her with gleaming eyes. Slowly she parted her hand from his, watching him under her quivering lashes then shot up kissing his stubble cheek, escaping the room with her tinkling laughter .

He gazed after her, stunned, his lips breaking into a smile "Uff" Angad sighed stamping his chest with his fist "she will be the death of me"

"Aliya, I think its times we tell everyone about our relationship" Shabbir urged holding her soft hands "it's been six months we've been together, I want everyone to know you belong with me"

"What's the hurry Shabbir? Its only six months, I don't think now's the right time"

He sighed pulling his hands away, using them to sweep his hair away in frustration "Listen Aliya, I don't want to be someone your embarrassed of. I don't want to be someone you can't show your family"

"I didn't mean that" she argued

"Then what do you mean Aliya" he growled "Why else wouldn't you want your family to know" she shriveled away in fear of his angry tone. He heaved then frowned at the anxiety he felt and saw "look Aliya" he hushed pulling her closer "I don't want to be angry, but sometimes, it just feels like you don't really love me. It seems more like a childish play of hide and seek" his eyes moved to stare into her dark orbs "We've been together for six months now, and I want to step up. I want to tell everyone what you mean to me, who you are" he paused, a sad smile lingering on his lips "But sometimes it feels like I'm the only one who wants that" he finished quietly

"Shabbir" she interrupted, taking his hands in hers "I do love you" she whispered "and no, you're not someone I'm ashamed of. If anything, I'm proud of all your achievements. My family knows you well enough, so never think I'm embarrassed or ashamed of you" she declared passionately. His eyes shone with affection. His hand moved to cup her cheek while she blushed prettily, snuggling deeper "I'm scared" she whispered after moments of silence, holding his hand to her cheek. He frowned watching her expression change from shy to sad "I know everyone will accept our relationship when the time comes but I'm the youngest at home Shabbir" her eyes moved to look into his dark ones "I don't want to grow up yet. I want this as much as you do, but I know they'll be a lot of growing up after my family knows"

"You don't want to marry me?" he asked quietly, dreading her next words.

She shook her leaning into the crook of his neck "I do, but not now. I need a few years. Look at Anju Di. She was in love with Kavya for three years. Mom and Dad found out two years later and in less than a year she was married. I can't have that right now. It's too much for me. I need a few more years" she explained

He sighed stroking her hair "I understand sweetheart. But we can at least tell your siblings, I'm pretty sure they'll understand"

She pouted moving away "I don't need them babying me"

He laughed pulling her back "You were just telling me you didn't want to grow up and now you don't want them babying you!"

She rolled her eyes, leaning back into his chest with a lingering smile "Yeah, whatever"

"Your lesson plans are great" Maya complimented "Your strategies good but because your kids are younger, they're easily distracted. So you need to work around the lesson plans according to their age" she explained. Kripa watched the paperwork with a grimace. She just couldn't seem to get her head around it. Maya laughed watching her contemplative face "Trust me they learn better that way" she added "Don't worry about it Kripa, the deadlines two weeks away"

"I know" Kripa groaned "I just feel like I'm falling behind today. Everything feels so stretched and stressful"

Maya frowned in concern "Are you okay?"

She nodded in response, leaning her head on her elbow "I'm just being lazy" she mumbled, gulping painfully. She could feel the temperature coming on but didn't want to catch too much attention. She hated it when people worried about her. She hated being treated like a child.

"I don't know Kripa, your cheeks look pretty flushed" She replied in concern.

"I'll be fine Dadi" Kripa groaned "Ohhh"

"Well you're not fine" Maya scolded. She moved forward to check her forehead then gasped at the heat radiating from her skin "Kripa you've got a temperature. You shouldn't even be at work"

Kripa sighed holding her pounding head "it's not bad, just a little"

"This is a little" she exclaimed, then sighed shaking her head "I'm sending you home right now"

"No Dadi" Kripa protested shooting up then groaned at the pain in her head "I promise I'll go home as soon as my lessons finish" Maya paused watching her sternly "I promise, please Dadi"

She shook her head "no, you will not be attending more lessons. I'll take over, but you young lady are going home right now" Kripa sighed, her hands crawling down to her sweating temples "look at yourself Kripa. You need to look after yourself more"

"I'm fine Dadi" she slurred, her eyes drooping

Maya screeched in panic when Kripa collapsed, her head lolling to one side "Kripa" she called

"Mhmm" she moaned "fineee"

"Everything Okay?" Mr Kapoor asked walking into the room. He had walked in their in worry when he heard his wife shout from the room adjacent to his office. His eyes widened when he realized Kripa had collapsed "What happened?" he asked rushing towards them slightly panicked

"She's running a high temperature, I was just coming to tell you I'm sending her home but she collapsed. Kripa" she called again shaking her shoulders

"Mmm haaa" she moaned feeling extremely week. Her lack of food and exhaustion had finally taken its toll.

"I'll tell Rajesh to call home and see if I can get some help" he said walking towards the main reception.

"So, what's happening between you and Kripa?" Rajesh asked with raised brows, a smile playing on his lips while he continued typing updated records for the day

"What do you mean?" Angad asked confused. He had a free lesson and was really hoping to bump into Kripa, like he did every day, but he was disappointed when he couldn't find her. He was hanging around the reception hoping to catch sight of his beautiful angel.

"You know what I mean" Rajesh retorted "rumors are that you two are in a relationship" he stated looking at Angad expectantly

"Ahhh, ummm well, sort of" he murmured excited and flushed all at the same time "we're getting there. Where'd you hear it from?"

He threw Angad a lopsided grin "women" he muttered "Geet was there when you two were getting hot and heavy apparently"

"Really" Angad sighed; nose wrinkled "I thought we were alone. I hope Kripa doesn't know" he muttered "she'll have my head"

Rajesh laughed in response watching Angad with twinkling eyes "what were you---" He was interrupted by the booming voice of the principle. They both looked back, surprised at his abrupt interruption "Everything alright sir?" Rajesh asked concerned

"Kripa just collapsed in the meeting room"

"Kripa collapsed" Angad gasped

"Rajesh call her emergency contact and ask them to pick her up and Angad--" he paused finding empty air "Where did he--?"

"Meeting room" Rajesh answered with a slight smile "I'll call her family, you go tend to her sir"

"Kripa" Angad panted, gulping at the sight before him. Her head laid on the desk, her arm extended beneath her head, while her other arm hung loosely to her side. Maya sat beside her, stroking her head in concern "Dadi, what happened?" he asked rushing towards her. He sat on the other side pulling her body to lean back limply on his chest "Kripa, Kripa" he called shaking her shoulder

"Mhmm angammm" she mumbled burrowing closer

"Dadi?" he mumbled worried, a question in his worried gaze

"She has a temperature. I was just going to send her home but she collapsed" She murmured watching the two, worry etching her wrinkled face.

He sighed pulling her closer, stroking her head "Kripa, please be okay" he mumbled pressing a silent kiss to her head

"Sir the emergency contacts aren't picking up" Rajesh said walking in behind the principle "What's the next step?"

"I'll take her home" Angad answered abruptly.

They all turned to look at him surprised, slightly unsure "You have lessons" Mr Kapoor reminded curtly

He closed his eyes for a brief moment, breathing deeply then opened his eyes looking directly at the principle "please sir, get someone to cover me. I'll cover whoever covers for me today. I promise. I won't be able to concentrate anyway" he pleaded

Mr Kapoor looked back at him doubtfully but sighed when his wife nodded from across the room.

"Okay, fine Angad, but please give us a call when she's home and let her family know we'll cover her tomorrow, she should rest" he ended, with a faint smile

Angad sighed in relief, a small smile lingering on his lips "Thank you so much" he thanked

Maya smiled fondly at the two then stood to usher him "come on now; let's get her to your car. Rajesh can you get both of their things please"

Rajesh nodded turning towards the staffroom while Angad hoisted his lady love into his protective arms, carrying her to the awaiting carriage.

"Kripa, you need to be more careful" he scolded silently, hoisting her from the car. She groaned snuggling closer. He had taken her to the doctors first. He knew he should have taken her home but he needed reassurance. She had been groggy from not eating and had a fever because of the changing weather. She was a little more conscious after taking some liquids, mumbling between intervals.

"Mhmm, I'm fine" she groaned

"Not Mhmm" he imitated "I want to see you nice and healthy, you can't even stand at the moment. Not that I mind, I rather like holding you close" he remarked cheekily

She frowned in her semi-conscious state, punching his chest weakly in protest

He chuckled pressing a kiss to her head "You can't even hit me properly baby. I want to see some food in your system" he said knocking the door while leaning her weight to his knee "You really scared me for a moment when I saw you" he stated seriously, recalling her unconscious state.

"I feel better" she mumbled sleepily "so don't worry"

"Of course I'll worry-"

"Kripa" he heard her mother gasp "Kripa" she called again moving closer to see her face "What happened?" she asked panicked

"I'm fine mama" she murmured

Angad sighed shaking his head "she collapsed in school" he stated "Rajesh tried to call but no one picked up so I took her to the doctor and bought her home" He felt a tad bit guilty knowing he was to blame for her fatigue. She had skipped dinner and missed out on most of her sleep because he had kept her thoughts occupied the night before.

Roshini ushered him in, softly scolding her "Look at you Kripa. This is exactly why I get so worried about you. You don't look after yourself at all, it's always work first"

"Mama" Kripa moaned embarrassed

"I don't want to hear anything" she snapped leading them towards the main room

"What happened?" Anjali asked rushing forward with Nitya

"I'll explain later" Angad replied "I should really get her to her room" he said, diverting his eyes towards the staircase.

They nodded following Roshini, who led them upstairs with Anjali and Nitya following. She turned the knob and grimaced, slightly surprised when she found the door locked. She turned and found everyone looking at her expectantly then sighed "rooms locked" she mumbled slightly embarrassed

"I'll get the other key" Anjali replied rushing down the stairs to get the duplicate key "here you go" she huffed, out of breathe.

Roshini took the key, blinking her eyes in thanks and opened the door wide. Her eyes widened at the sight of the huge teddy bear lying on Kripa's bed, holding a big red heart saying 'I love you'. Her forehead creased into a frown. She felt herself turn serious and somber "lay her on the bed" she murmured quietly trying to recover from what she had seen.

Her eyes turned towards Angad who was now laying Kripa on the bed, an anxious smile gracing his lips while he sat beside her, stroking her head "Aunty, the doctor prescribed Kripa vitamin tablets. She needs to take them three times a day" he said pulling the bottle out his pocket.

Roshini bit her lip nervously watching the affection between the two. Although Kripa was hardly conscious, she could still see the love shining in her daughter's eyes. Her train of thoughts went back to the first time she had reprimanded Kripa for her behavior at Kavya's wedding. It was just teasing back then but she still felt an aura surround them. It was something she didn't understand, didn't see, but right now, it was apparent the two were strongly attracted to each other, maybe even love each other, she anticipated, glancing at the dreaded teddy once again.

"What happened to you?" Sagar exclaimed walking into Kripa's room.

Kripa sat up groggily, a slight pout adorning her face "Sagar I'm tired" she moaned pushing her hair out of her face "Don't start now"

"What! I didn't even say anything" he retorted sitting beside her. He moved forward, touching her heated skin and frowned "Woo, you have quite a temperature"

"Hmmm not really, I'm okay. Everyone's fussing over me for no reason" she grumbled holding her pounding temples.

"I can see that" Kavya said walking into the room "What happened? Anjali told me Angad bought you home unconscious"

She flushed remembering how close he had held her. She could still feel him, imagine him holding her close, pressed to his firm chest "I'm fine" she mumbled "wasn't sleepy last night and wasn't really hungry. I guess it took its toll. I'm much better now"

Kavya sighed patting her head "You need to look after yourself Kripa. Maasi got really worried"

"I know Bhai, I'll be careful next time" she mumbled looking down at her hands

"Actually its good she fell ill" Sagar teased "we didn't have to hear her yapping at the dining table today"

"Sagar" she moaned pursing her lips while her cheeks puffed out like a chipmunk

He snorted when she growled in her puny state. Kavya stood beside her, suppressing the grin he felt coming. She whacked them with cushions, throwing a tantrum, repeatedly moaning when the two burst into laughter.

"Satya, I need to talk to you" Roshini said breaking the serenity of the room

He looked up from undoing his tie "We'll talk later, let me go and see Kripa first. Anjali said she fainted at work today" he mumbled, tension creasing his forehead "What happened?"

"Same stuff I'm always complaining about. She's under weather but she hadn't really eaten since last night"

"Oh, let me go see how she's doing" he muttered strolling towards the bedroom door

"It's important Satya, I really need to talk to you right now" she exclaimed anxiously, following him

He sighed turning towards his anxious wife "Roshini, if this is about Kripa then don't worry, she'll be fine. She's going to get an earful from me about her health today" Satya exclaimed pressing her shoulders in reassurance.

"Satya, listen to me please" She fretted when he turned to walk away. He frowned watching her fret. She panicked and moaned about kripa about kripa all the time, but never this much. She sighed taking his hand. She could feel his gaze bore into her while she moved to close the bedroom door. As much as she wanted to tell him, a part of her knew things would change when she told him. The next few days were not going to be pleasant at all but she had to tell him what she had seen and felt. It was now or never.

"Roshini, you're scaring me. What's happened?" Satya mumbled after moments of silence

She stared into his troubled eyes then heaved in irritation "It's about Kripa but it's not about her health" She paused; fearful of his reaction "It's about her relationship with Angad" she stated looking at him seriously "they're in love!" her breath hitched in her throat.

His anxiety quickly changed into fury. A pulse throbbed at his temple while his face turned dour "tell me everything" he demanded loud and clear

She took a shaky breath, frightened; the anger was clearly evident on his face. She could only wish he wouldn't react as badly as she thought.

Glad to see things progressing between Angad and Kripa..but now that Kripa's parents have found out.. things are going to go downhill :( I really don't like Kripa's mom! Hhahah

Aweseom job!

lvd ak gettin closer. angad's gift for kripa was lovely.

why are kripa's parent so against her relationship with angad? how does it matter who she is with?

thanks for pm

sorry havent updated for a few months

have been extremely busy and had death in the family

Next chapter coming up shortly

Kripa sighed sweetly leaning against her cuddly partner. She had a pleasant evening, although Kavya and Sagar had made fun of her for most of it. She knew they cared. Sagar had checked her temperature several times on the pretense of something or the other. It was sweet in its own way.

Her thoughts went back to Angad. She was completely and utterly in love with him. His every touch, every gaze and every thought had her flushed rosy. Life just seemed so much more beautiful and meaningful with him "Mhmm" she moaned cuddling closer to her teddy.

Her half closed eyes snapped open when she felt her mobile vibrate. Rubbing the tiredness out of her eyes, she answered the call. It was Angad "Hey sweetheart" he greeted. She could feel the smile in his voice.

"Hey" she mumbled, stifling a yawn

"How are you feeling?"

"Okay" she mumbled pushing a strand of hair out of her face "feeling better"

"You really scared me today" he said sincerely then paused for a brief moment "I'm sorry"

"Sorry" she mumbled confused "Sorry for what?"

"You didn't sleep or eat because of me last night" he murmured lying flat on his back

She bit her lip shyly, her cheeks turning a rose pink, her eyes fluttering timidly. After a moment of silence her lips lifted into a cheeky smile recollecting his words "When did I say it was because of you"

He chuckling hearing the slight mischief in her voice "Of course you were thinking about me sweetheart. I know you inside out"

"No, I wasn't. I have other people I like to think about too" she retorted

"So you admit you like thinking about me" he fired back

She pouted at her failing words "I didn't say that"

"Of course you did princess. You just admitted it yourself" he reminded chuckling

"Angad" she moaned, her voice hinting a tad annoyance "I didn't---" she turned towards the door suddenly when she heard heavy footsteps "I'll talk to you later. Someone's coming" she mumbled rushing to disconnect the call

"But Kripa we --" he called, then sighed when the line cut off "I'll see her tomorrow" he mumbled, then groaned when he realized he wouldn't see her at work tomorrow "Kripa" he mumbled "God, you're driving me crazy"

Satya stormed in the direction of Kripa's room, his pot of fury boiling to the brink. Roshini hurried behind him, dreading his next steps "Satya listen to me. Now's not a good time"

He ignored her, stamping towards his daughters room.

"Dad" Kripa mumbled bewildered when he stormed into her room. She sat up weakly, glazed at the fury she saw on her father's face "Are you okay Dad?" she asked concerned. Her confusion deepened when mother rushed in behind him, flustered "Dad" she mumbled again watching them, troubled.

Satya sighed watching Kripa gaze at him anxiously. His little girl sat huddled between bundles of blankets leaning against a huge grey teddy. She looked so innocent in that moment; his heart melted at the sight. His gaze hardened when he registered what the teddy said. He turned to look back at his wife when he felt her hand squeeze his shoulder. Nodding in understanding he walked towards kripa, Roshini following behind.

Taking a deep breath, Satya sat beside her, gazing at his little girl "Kripa, I'm going to ask you something" he started calmly "I want you to answer me truthfully"

She frowned, wondering what could have got her parents so worked up "What's wrong Dad? Mom? Is everything Okay?"

He nodded closing his eyes then rubbed his temples "What's your relationship with Angad?" he asked quietly watching several reactions run through her all at once

"A-An-Angad" She stuttered. She felt heat surge through her body, her face flushing rosy. Her eyes lifted to see her fathers, afraid. She knew she would have to tell her parents soon, but not this soon and certainly not like this "Uhhh, Dad, Dad where did you? --- Who told you?"

"Kripa I want the truth. What is your relationship with Angad?" He asked, a little louder this time.

She shrivelled, lowering her gaze "I-I love him" she mumbled nervously "I love him Dad". A cold silence covered the room "Dad?" she mumbled looking up

She noticed his jaw tighten while a vein started throbbing erratically on his temple. His fists clenched at his sides. He stood up staring at her frostily "Forget him" he told her coldly "From now on I don't want you seeing him more than necessary"

Her widened eyes shrivelled with emotion "but Dad"

"No but's Kripa" he exclaimed finally raising his voice "You will keep your distance from him"

"Satya" Roshini cautioned holding his arm. He looked back, glaring at his wife.

"Dad" Kripa whispered whimpering "I love him"

"I don't care Kripa. I want you away from him and that's all"

"Dad please, I really do love him. Please don't make me do this Dad"

"You don't have a choice Kripa" he retorted icily "unless you want to make the choice between me and him" he threatened clearly ignoring his wife's warnings.

Her breath hitched in her throat, eyes wide staring at him in shock. She never thought she would be put in a situation where she would have to choose from her father or Angad "Dad" she whispered, still hoping he'd give in "Please Dad. He's a really nice person Dad, trust me. I didn't fall for him just for his looks. He has a good heart Dad. You've seen him, you know him. Then why Dad? Please don't do this"

"I know what's best for you Kripa. So don't question me. I've seen this world more than you and I know who you should be with and that's not Angad"

"But Dad--" she reasoned between sobs

"That's it Kripa. There is no argument to make. I know who's better for you and that's Nikhil" her glassy eyes turned towards him befuddled "I fixed your marriage with Nikhil. He's coming to see you after two weeks

"No Dad" she whispered "You can't do this to me" her glazed eyes searched for sympathy "Dad please"

"No" he silenced her "You're getting married to Nikhil and that's final. You are going to marry him and that's final" he stated with a tone of finality and moved to exit her room. He paused briefly when he found Kavya, Anjali and Sagar at the bedroom door. They all looked shocked and slightly angry "Before any of you say anything, I'll let you know right now my decision will not change" he announced apathetically then brushed past them in haste. He knew what he had done was harsh but that's how it would be. He had fixed her alliance two months ago with his friend's son. It would be too embarrassing to back out of the alliance because his daughter fell in love.

He didn't like hurting her but he felt he was making a better decision for her future. He knew what was best for her. Angad may be a good boy but Nikhil was better because he had chosen him for his daughter. It had become a matter of Pride and Ego. He knew she would give in because she had never refused him and would never deny his final word.

Kripa sighed walking towards her cupboard. It had been two days since her father broke the bomb shell on her. She couldn't go against her father no matter how much she loved Angad. He had become a big part of her life, but her father was a bigger part.

Truthfully she hadn't spoken to father properly since her confrontation with him two days ago. She didn't have the courage to. Although she had silently consented to the alliance, she couldn't bring herself to show any happiness towards it.

She would stay away from Angad like he had asked her to, but she wasn't going to be happy about it. It was subconscious decision she had made to relieve her heart.

"Kripa" she heard him whisper. She closed her eyes in misery, pursing her lips to stop the sob caught in her throat "how's my princess feeling?" he asked wrapping his arms around her

Taking a deep breath she pushed out of his arms, walking away "Kripa" he called again with a slight frown and held her hand "Talk to me sweetheart. I haven't heard your voice in two days. Why have you been ignoring my calls?" he complained pulling her close.

She heaved closing her eyes for a brief moment, yearning for his touch, his scent "Angad" she finally whispered "I need to go. Leave me alone"

"No you don't" he replied cheekily "You have a free lesson right now. I know your timetable inside out sweetheart. Come on; let's take an early lunch break. I'm free" he mumbled holding her close.

"Angad please, I can't" she said pulling away "I have lessons to plan"

He sighed; she seemed to be in a bad mood "Okay, do your lesson plans." He soothed quietly holding her hands "Can we at least have coffee here" he said nodding towards the kitchen

"No Angad" she refused "I need to go, I can't stay"

"But Kripa, come on" he pulled her arms, bringing her closer "please, for me. I promise I won't tease you. Just a few minutes, that's all I'm asking for. I've missed you sweetheart" he murmured leaning his forehead on hers.

She gulped, briefly closing her eyes then pulled away "No" she replied aloofly moving to walk away. Angad clenched his teeth and pulled her back in the tight circle of his arms once again. He didn't know why but he had a feeling she was seriously avoiding him today "What's your problem? Leave me alone" she exclaimed pushing at his chest

"No" he retorted sternly "you tell me what's going on first. Why do you keep trying to run away? I'm not going to hurt you, okay. I love you Kripa, I love you"

Her head snapped up at those words as a lone tear made its way down her cheek. She whimpered, struggling to pull away, all her pent up emotions bubbling out of its cauldron.

"Kripa listen to me" he muttered holding her struggling form "I love you sweetheart"

Her breathing quickened while she sobbed incessantly, her struggle dying. Slowly her head fell to his chest, her arms surrounding him. She had kept it in for two days. She was struggling emotionally and she'd finally reached her breaking point.

"Kripa, Kripa, Listen I'm sorry" he apologized horribly confused "I'm so sorry sweetheart. I didn't want to make you cry. Please Kripa. I'm sorry" he sighed pulling her close, rubbing her back in comfort while he pressed warm kisses to her head "What's wrong sweetheart? Tell me, please" her wet eyes fluttered open after a few minutes. Hesitantly she parted from him feeling extremely guilty yet comforted "Feel better?" he asked smiling down at her, worried.

She lifted her damp lashes to look into his concerned eyes. Her lips started to quiver once again. He reached out for her in comfort "I'm getting married" she whispered

He stilled, his eyes widening "But--But you told your parents about us?" he paused staring at her in panic "right?" Her head lowered to his chest, seeking the last of his comfort then she parted from him. He watched her with dread "Kripa" he whispered reaching for her hand

"No Angad" she shook her head "it can't happen. I'm committed to someone else" she stated with a shaky voice before walking away hastily, leaving her heart with his broken heart.

Angad's miserable expression remained intact in her mind all day. Her heart broke in to pieces every time she recalled his face. She felt awful doing that to him, leaving him dejected; but she felt the same.

She was upset at her father's behavior. Yes he knew better for her but he hadn't even given her a chance. He hadn't given Angad a chance and although she knew he was wrong she couldn't go against him. She couldn't hurt him the way he was hurting her.

Tears slid down her cheek once again remembering the painful expression on Angad's face. She didn't want this; she didn't want Angad to be in love with her because she knew she would give him nothing but pain.

"Can I come in?" she heard Kavya call.

She looked up and found him standing at the door, arms folded, staring at her solemnly. Quickly wiping her wet eyes, she pasted a quivering smile "Of course Bhai, come in"

Unfolding his arms he walked towards her, pushing his fisted hands into his pockets. They both sat together quietly for a while staring anywhere but at each other. They had been through silent awkward moments when they had met at first but now, it just felt so wrong. It felt wrong not knowing how to start a conversation, not knowing what to say.

Agitated, Kavya turned to look at her. She was gazing at her lap where her fidgeting fingers lay. He sighed moving his hands to hold hers still "Kripa, why are you doing this?" he questioned.

"Doing what?" she whispered not meeting his eyes.

"Look at me" he retorted restlessly "Kripa" he called again when she continued looking down "look at me" he ordered turning her face towards him.

Her eyes widened for a brief moment before turning towards him. She could see the frustration on his face. It was sweet of him to worry, but it was pointless. It would change nothing.

"Why are you doing this?" he asked once again, a little calmer this time "why are you hurting yourself?"

"I'm fine Bhai. What's wrong with me?" she mumbled looking down

"Stop looking down kripa" he scolded. He sighed when she continued looking away "what do you want Kripa?"

"I don't want anything" she replied twiddling her fingers "I'm fine, seriously Bhai" she answered finally looking up with a huge false smile.

His eyes sparkled with hurt. He didn't like seeing her like this. She had grown extremely quiet and segregated in the past week. It was blatantly obvious she was in love with Angad "Kripa, you know I don't call you my sister just for the sake of it. I really mean it" he spoke softly "I know I'm not your real brother, I'm just your cousin but I want you to be happy"

"Bhai" she exclaimed frowning "I've never thought of you that way, I know you care for me, love me" she whispered softly "I just need a bit of time, that's it. I'll be fine. I'll get over it" she mumbled in tears. She could feel her throat clog up.

"You don't have to Kripa. Why did you agree to marry a complete stranger? It's so obvious you're in love with Angad"

She choked, holding back a sob "I'm not in love with him" she protested

"Of course you are" he said taking hold of her forearms "we heard you admit it to Satya Uncle that day and I've known for a while kripa" her eyes lifted to his in question "Anju saw you and Angad getting cozy on your birthday" he replied to her questioning gaze "but that's not the point. You love Angad. Angad loves you. Try talking to your dad again, he'll agree. I mean he can't put you off forever. I'm pretty sure he'll melt after a few times"

"He won't Bhai, I know him well. I'm scared" she confessed "I don't want to fight with my dad Bhai, that's not what he raised me for. I'm not happy right now but maybe, a few years down the line I'll be happy. I just can't go against him"

"How do you know it's going to work? Huh" he exclaimed gazing at her "Are you just going to take the risk? Are you ready to live your life with someone you don't even know? I don't understand how you ever expect this to work?"

"I never said I was ready" she whispered quietly "I'll never be ready but I can't go against dad" she confessed "I admit It'll be hard forgetting Angad but it'll be harder facing dad if I go against him. I can't hurt him Bhai, I can't no matter how much he hurts me" she cried diving into his chest.

Kavya sighed stroking her head while he held her close. He felt helpless yet determined to make things right.

"What's wrong yaar?" Misha sighed. She had been watching Sagar for the past three days. He wasn't as cheerful as he normally was. He hadn't teased at all in the past week. It was so obvious something was bothering him.

His lips lifted slightly then dropped while he shook his head "nothing"

"Nothing" Misha imitated dramatically "Of course there's something wrong. You've hardly said a word to me this past week. Did you get into a fight or something?"

He sighed slumping down on the grass "No" he replied grouchily "No fight" he mumbled

"Then what's happened? Come on yaar, tell Mama Bear" she teased

He rolled his eyes smiling faintly "well Mama Bear doesn't need to know everything"

"But Mama Bear knows you'll be grumpy for the rest of the week if you don't tell her" she retorted plopping besides him "Okay, I'm being serious now. What's wrong? I've never seen you this serious before!"

"I don't know what to do Mish!" he exclaimed "I'm so confused. There's so much tension at home" he turned towards her distressed "Dad told Kripa Di she's getting married to some stranger last week but she's in love Angad, Anjali bhabi's brother"

"Wait what!" Misha exclaimed "she's in love with Angad. But I thought they hated each other"

"Well we all did" he said in frustration "It wasn't something any of us saw coming but that's how it is"

"Then what's the problem? Tell your dad she's in love with Angad"

"Dad already knows" he sighed "he announced Di's wedding when he found out. I don't know what to do. Kripa Di's been so sad and quiet lately. It's just not like her. It's not normal. I don't like the way she is right now but the problem is she agreed to get married. What am I supposed to do to help her?"

"What do you think you should do Sagar?" Misha asked staring directly at him

"I just told you, I don't know" he retorted irately

She sighed patting his knee "You need to talk to your parents. It's not really fair on your sister. What does everyone else think at home?"

"I know Kavya Bhaiya and Bhabi want her to marry Angad. Maybe because he's bhabi's brother" he shrugged "but now that I think about it Kripa di has been really happy around Angad lately. He makes her happy and I want to make her happy"

"So there you go. Make her happy. Talk to Kavya Bhaiya, Angad, see what everyone says and help them. Do what you think is right. Listen to your heart" she said pointing to his chest

Sagar sighed smiling "God Misha, how do you do it? How can be so cheerful all the time"

"Well what can I say?" she said pulling her collar up "I'm just the best"

"And totally mistaken" Sagar teased. He laughed when she leapt on him for the nasty comment.

Satya sighed lost in his thoughts, surrounded by files. One week, it had been a whole week since Kripa had spoken to him. It hurt him inside. He could clearly see the difference his decision had made to kripa but he wasn't ready to give in. As a father he had more experience to life and he knew what was best for her.

He would sit at the dining table sometimes, watching her play with her food. Roshini still fussed over Kripa's eating habits but Kripa just sat with her head lowered listening instead of moaning childishly. It bothered him deeply. He didn't want her to change. He still wanted her to be his little girl but somewhere along the line his little girl had grown up and although she listened to him obediently, it just didn't feel the same.

His decision had created an invisible barrier between them. She barely sat in the same room as him. She spent most of her time sitting upstairs in her bedroom. He had caught her staring at him at times but the moment his eyes met hers, she'd look away.

It still hurt him immensely seeing how quiet his talkative girl had grown, but it stung his male pride. He couldn't digest the fact that his daughter had changed in a matter of a days for a man she barely knew for months, in comparison to the years she spent with him.

He closed his eyes leaning against the headboard in deep thought. He wished things would go back to normal. He wanted his daughter back, but on his conditions. He wouldn't give in!

He peered through his barely open eyes when he heard the bedroom door creak open. His wife stood in front of him, staring into thin air, lost in deep thought. He sighed knowing exactly where her thoughts wondered. They were both under the same umbrella.

He watched her for moments of silence as she moved around the room preparing for bed "Roshini" he called with a sigh

"Hmm" she turned towards him confounded

His frown deepened as his face grew somber "Why is kripa doing this?"

Her eyes lowered as she sighed sitting beside him "I guess I didn't realize how serious she was about Angad"

He frowned slowly growing angry "Angad shouldn't be important to her. We should. She's barely known him"

"I don't know Satya; I don't like seeing kripa like this. There's no use trying to be strict with her. She listened to you. She's going to marry where we want but she's just not the same" she sighed leaning her head against his shoulder "I can't even bring myself to shout at her properly when she doesn't eat properly for the fear of her tears. I don't know what to do"

"As much as I don't like seeing her like this, she'll have to accept" he declared "I know what's better for her, not Angad!"

She looked up feeling the pressure of his words. She could hear the finality in his words and as much as she should be agreeing with him, somewhere, deep down she knew she had made a mistake.

"Angad! Where have you been man?" Shabbir exclaimed walking into his room "I've been calling you for the last two days"

Angad looked up seriously from his position on his bed. He lay on his back with his arms tucked beneath his head "I don't know where my phone is" he muttered looking back at the ceiling

"Okay" Shabbir answered awkwardly "What happened to make you" he stressed "out of all people serious!" Angad rolled his eyes in response still staring darkly at the ceiling "You know the ceiling isn't going to be much help but maybe I can" Shabbir teased "Awww come on, tell me what's wrong? It's just not normal for you to be angry" he said when he only got a frown in response.

Shabbir sighed staring at Angad after minutes of silence "Okay Angad. I'm being serious now. What's made you so miserable?" he asked after a pause

"I'm fine, okay" he snapped

"I can see that" Shabbir said plopping beside him "You ready tell me what's wrong yet!" he asked after yet another bout of silence.

"How about you leave me alone"

"How about not?"

"Well how about I punch you then---. Hey!" Angad exclaimed shooting up from the bed, holding his cheek. He gaped at Shabbir who stood smirking holding his fist. Angad growled moving to punch Shabbir but only growled more when he missed "Look Shabbir, I'm not in the mood" he roared

"Well get in the mood" he said aiming a punch at his stomach

"Oomph" Angad hissed feeling the pain in his gut. Holding his stomach, he slumped down. His hands eventually reached his head while he sat tensely on his bed.

Shabbir sighed finally fed up of the games "Listen Angad, I'm not here to play fight with you. You are obviously an emotional wreck. Look at you. You look like someone died. Aliya's been talking about you all week. This is just not like you. Tell me what's wrong or tell someone. Sort yourself out man. This just isn't you"

"Kripa's getting married" he mumbled

"Oh" Shabbir murmured "Do you like her?" he asked after a pause

"I'm in love with her"

He snorted in reaction "You, in love. Come on" his expression grew serious when he saw Angad glare "are you serious?"

"Yes. I love her but she's getting married. The end" he retorted in frustration

Shabbir sighed leaning back on his elbow "So that's it. The end. You're not going try and win her back"

"Well in case you didn't hear me, she's getting married" Angad declared "she's getting married" he repeated quieter "and there's nothing I can do about it"

"Oh come on Angad. Since when were you one to lose" Shabbir encouraged "If this is the end for you then I'm sorry to say but you never loved her" Angad frowned at him but stayed quiet "Does she love you?"

He shrugged his shoulders in response "What's this supposed to mean?" Shabbir said copying him

"I don't know. I think she loves me but she never really said it. Besides, what's the point? She's getting married to someone else and she agreed to it" he ended bitterly

"There must be a reason she agreed Angad. You can't back out without a fight. Find out the reason first. Find if she really does love you. Court her, romance her. You've always been good at that" he ended slyly

"I don't know Shabbir. This is Kripa we're talking about, I don't want to lose her but I don't know what to do. I don't know where to start"

Shabbir sighed leaning forward "then just be yourself. Not this gloomy grumpy man. Be the Angad we all know, the Angad she's possibly in love with and you'll have her. Trust me, I felt the same way when I saw Aliya" he blurted

"Aliya" Angad repeated gawking at him wide eyed

"Uhhh, ermmm, no" he squabbled nervously "I--I didn't say Aliya, you heard wrong"

"I know what I heard Shabbir" Angad frowned

Shabbir sighed brushing his hands through his hair "Okay fine. I'm in love with your sister, we've been together for a couple months--" he ended quietly gazing at Angad nervously

A number of emotions flew through Angad all at once. He felt protective, annoyed, angry, happy then sad. His little sister had grown up and found love before him. He was happy for her, although slightly annoyed at not being told before. At least she got to be with the one she loved, unlike him.

"Sooo?" Shabbir blurted after an awkward pause

Angad's eyes lifted, looking Shabbir straight in the eye "why didn't you guys tell me before?"

"Ehhh" Shabbir scratched his head nervously "well, I don't know" he sighed when Angad only raised a brow "Aliya didn't want anyone to know yet. Something about her growing and all, you know how girls get emotional"

Angad chuckled in response. He could imagine Aliya lecturing Shabbir.

Shabbir smiled watching the smile playing on Angad's lips. He wasn't use to seeing Angad upset, maybe once or twice over silly little things in university but never so serious. His smile dulled to a light frown "You know what Angad, kripa loves you"

Angad's smile faltered at the mention of her name. His twinkling eyes lowered to his tied fists "I want her to" he looked up with sparkling eyes "I've never felt so strongly for anyone Shabbir. I don't know what it was that attracted me to her, but I love hearing her voice, her tinkling laughter. I love watching her one hundred and one faces, I love watching her react. I don't want to lose her Shabbir"

"Don't lose her. Go get her Angad. She's all yours. Use your humor, you're flirting or whatever it is you do but win her back Angad. You haven't lost her yet. She can still be yours"

His dull eyes brightened with a new light "you know what Shabbir, I'm going do just that" he said watching him with gleaming eyes while a cunning smile made its way to his lips

Faiza