The Distance Between Us - An AR FF (Link to TDBU#2 - Page 1) - Page 49

Originally posted by: Prizi

MKRM?

Previously On...

Armaan and Rahul talk about the cake fight.

Riddhima and Muskaan talk about Armaan.

Everyone gets ready to go to the hospital.

Riddhima laments over the fact that she let Armaan go.

Track 17 - Super Friend, Grant Gustin & Melissa Benoist

Armaan smiled as he stood the doorstep of Sanjeevani, the others crowding behind him.

"It's a new day, it's a new life, he whispered quietly to himself as was his tradition whenever he entered the hospital.

They entered in a flurry of activity with nurses and wardboys scrambling to make way. Shashank found it a little odd but shrugged it off. He watched with interest as Armaan greeted the staff, taking a minute to talk to them. He asked some random nurse about her husband's health, some wardboy about his daughter's, some person about how their partner's birthday party was last week. He was a little surprised to see that Armaan knew so many things about these people. Yes, they were an integral part of any hospital, but Shashank himself hadn't ever tried to get to know them. As far as he knew, neither had any of his juniors.

"I need to get some stuff from my cabin, but then, I can take you on a quick tour. I hope you don't mind, Armaan told Shashank and Shubhankar apologetically.

"Arre, no, no, Dr. Armaan. Get your stuff. We'll start the tour from your cabin only, Shubhankar replied. Armaan smiled in gratitude.

Armaan entered his cabin and started tinkering at the table. He removed his blazer and hung it on the back of his chair. Then, he moved to the tiny wardrobe on the side and removed his lab coat, putting it on. A glass of orange juice was already present on his table. Armaan drank it in one go, appreciating it's iciness. But, no one other than Shashank took notice of it, everyone busy admiring his cabin. Shashank was really surprised with the similarity of Armaan's movements to his own. He would also drape his blazer against his chair first thing after getting to the hospital, before downing his glass of cold water.

"Can I get you guys something to drink or eat? He asked the gang. That brought them out of their admiration.

"Uh, no thanks, they replied in unison which caused everyone to laugh.

"Okay, then, Armaan replied. He removed his cell phone from his pocket and kept it on his desk before grabbing his pager.

"Okay, all set, he said, moving out. The others followed. A peon was standing right outside the door. Everyone looked at him confused while Armaan smiled.

"Thank you, Dan, Armaan said gratefully, grabbing the coffee mug from his hand. "I don't even want to know how you always know when I'm in. Thanks for the juice.

Dan laughed. "You know that news spreads like wildfire whenever you're here. All those people, dying to catch one glimpse of you, he joked.

"Whatever, Armaan replied, disinterested. "How's your sister? Her results were supposed to come out a few weeks ago, right? Did she do well?

"Yes, she did. Scored the highest in biology, of course. How couldn't she, when you tutored her? Thank you so much, for that. I know how busy you are. I really appreciate it, Dan answered.

"Really, now? Thank you? Wow, such manners! What am I gonna do with you? I was happy to help. Plus, that kid is such a sweetheart, Armaan grinned. "How do you ward off the boys?

"It's not easy, let me tell you, Dan answered. "But, it helps that she doesn't date cause she's got a crush on this one guy, he said, winking at Armaan slyly.

"Naww, Armaan commented. "Really? Me? He asked.

Dan nodded. "Should I tell her you find her beautiful and that you think she's a sweetheart? He teased.

"Shut up, Dan, Armaan replied, good naturedly. "Get to work.

"Dan's sister, Emma, is in high school. I tutor her in biology sometimes, Armaan explained to the others as they walked through the corridors.

He was pointing to the various wards as they walked past. It really was a very well equipped hospital, like Rohan had told Riddhima several times, and everyone was in awe. Abhi had been frantically scribbling notes, wanting to incorporate stuff at Sanjeevani back home.

"Oh, thank god you're here! A red blur said, right before it pounced on Armaan. "I've been waiting for forever.

Armaan chuckled. "Relax, Chlo - Blo. You got this. Don't worry, he promised.

Chloe scoffed and pulled back. "Yeah, right!

"Yep, Armaan responded.

He pulled her into his side and said, "Walk and talk. The rest of the way, Chloe droned on about her surgery while Armaan listened carefully and gave her pointers. Shashank had to admit, he was really impressed by Armaan's suggestions and the depth of his understanding and knowledge of the patients prognosis.

When they reached Chote Papa's cabin, Armaan asked Chloe to wait outside while he and the others went in.

"Hey, dad! Armaan greeted as he entered the room without knocking.

"Morning, Armaan, Chote Papa replied without looking up from his files. "I was wondering when you'd stop by. Like always, the nurses are all going gaga since you've arrived.

Armaan blushed on hearing that. "Um, yeah. Dr. Beale has a surgery today and I'm sitting in the viewing gallery for moral support. I also brought some guests.

This prompted Chote Papa to look up and he was surprised to see everyone there.

"Arre, aap sab? Yahaan? He asked.

"Haan, Shashank replied. "We thought we'd stop by and see the hospital. And, help you guys out here if need be. Ghar pe baithe baithe bore ho jaate.

"Of course, Chote Papa agreed. "You're always welcome. Armaan smiled at the exchange.

"Okay, dad. So, they're your responsibility now. I need to consult with Dr. Beale.

Chote Papa nodded. "That's fine.

"Good, Armaan replied. "And, before I forget, he added, removing a checkbook from his waistcoat pockets. "Here you go. 50 Mil.

Armaan signed the check, tore it and gave it to Chote Papa. "I don't want any more discussions about it, he ordered sternly when he saw that Chote Papa was about to protest.

"Fine, Chote Papa groused. "I can never win with you!

"Then, why do you even try? Armaan asked cheekily.

Chote Papa laughed and banished him to work.

"Paagal hai, he muttered as Armaan left.

Shashank looked at him questioningly. "Rahul, why do you need so much money?

Chote Papa sighed. "Ab aapse kya chupaana? He asked rhetorically. "Things have not been good with Sanjeevani recently. I mean, we invested in a research centre but that didn't pan out well and we were cheated out of the property we bought to build the centre. It's all my fault. I should have looked at the paperwork more minutely. But the sellers seemed such nice people and they'd been so accommodating. I never thought they were trying to scam us. But, they took the money and ran. Since we'd given the hospital building as collateral for the loan, the bank has been on our heads with threats to shut the hospital if we didn't pay them back.

Shashank was shocked. "Didn't you hire a lawyer to look through the papers? He asked.

"We did, but it seems that the sellers bought that guy also because he practically shoved the pen in my hand, wanting me to sign the deal asap, Chote Papa answered. "I should have listened to Armaan and given the papers to him, made his lawyer go through them, but the law firm we used was highly recommended and they were said to be the best with property law. Turns out that the guy we were meeting was actually fibbing and wasn't from the firm at all. The people who sold us the land are known scammers. They've done this before also. The case is pending with the police, but we needed the money asap or the hospital could have shut down, he explained.

Shashank was shocked. He didn't know what to say. He was so surprised that Rahul had been scammed out of money. He had such a good eye for business and law. If they were able to fool him, they must have been really good.

"Do you need us to help you with anything? Dr. Shubhankar asked.

"No, no, Chote Papa replied. "Thank you so much. But, Armaan's got it covered. He gestured to the cheque in his hands.

Dr. Shubhankar smiled. "I'm glad he was able to help you.

"He's like this only, Chote Papa replied, smiling fondly. "Saari duniya ki problem solve karta rehta hai. Khud ka toh usse kuch khayal rehta nahi.

"I know, Dr. Shubhankar replied. "Armaan has always been like this only.

"Okay, enough with the senti talks. Do you guys want to see the hospital? Chote Papa asked.

Everyone nodded in affirmative and they began the tour. They toured for almost an hour, looking at the entire hospital and appreciating the facilities. Chote Papa introduced them to some doctors too, and everyone was happy to pick their brain for various stuff.

It had been hours, but Riddhima hadn't gotten a single glimpse of Armaan since he'd left Rahul Uncle's cabin. It was worrying her a little though Rahul Uncle had assured them Armaan would be busy for a few hours. The surgery Chloe had to perform was a little complex and would take almost 3 hours. Armaan wouldn't move an inch till it was done. But, that had been almost 5 hours ago. It was almost lunch time.

Working in the same hospital as Armaan, but not having him pull her into a secluded corner every hour for a few minutes of alone time was a foreign concept to her. Armaan would always find one reason or another to come visit her by the hour, like clockwork. She couldn't help the loneliness that seemed to encompass her because of Armaan's indifference towards her. She would give anything to feel his arms around her just one more time. She'd always taken his hugs and kisses for granted. Maybe that was why now she was thirsting for one brush of his hands against hers. Now, she wished that she'd never stopped Armaan before. Remembering all the times she'd shied away from the closeness, she cursef herself. She would give anything to have Armaan hold her tight in his arms and kiss the living daylights out of her now. She wanted to whack past Riddhima in the head. Hard. Such a fool she'd been, thinking they had forever.

Sighing at her self pity, she shook her head and started walking towards the canteen, where everyone had decided to meet for lunch. However, on the way, she was greeted with the most wonderful sight. Armaan was busy playing with some kids in the Childrens' Ward. Riddhima found it highly amusing to see Armaan stretched out on the floor, not giving a shit about his Armaani Suit, as kids swarmed him, jumping on him. He looked so happy, rolling around with them, but Riddhima was sure that if Anjali could have seen Armaan at the moment, she'd have a conniption at him ruining his clothes that way. She only found it endearing. Clearly, those kids' happiness was more important to Armaan than a $5000 pair of pants.

Armaan felt someone's strong gaze on him and looked up to see the entrance, but was surprised to see no one there. He was sure that someone had been watching him, the intensity of their gaze burning him even though he hadn't realized at first. Who could it have been? Before Armaan could ponder over it, the kids pulled him back to their game, effectively distracting him.

Riddhima sighed in relief as she his behind the door, thankful that Armaan hadn't seen her. She peeked around the door a few minutes later to see Armaan engrossed in his game again. She laughed. He was still such a kid. It was adorable really.

"He looks great when he smiles like that, doesn't he? Sid asked, coming to stand beside Riddhima.

"Sid! You scared me! Riddhima exclaimed.

Sid rolled his eyes. "Don't try to change the topic.

"What topic? Riddhima asked, trying to act innocent.

"Don't put on that act for me. You know I'm talking about you and Armaan. Why don't you tell him, Riddhima? If, after knowing, he still doesn't want to be with you, then that's his call

But, by hiding the truth from him, you're taking his choice away, he tried to explain.

"Sid, please, Riddhima replied, walking away from the ward. "I know what I'm doing. This is the best course of action. And, anyway, this is a personal matter. Please don't interfere.

Sid was taken aback by her cold tone, but understood that it was just a defense mechanism and let it slide. "Fine. Do what you want. But don't expect me to be a part of this. I'm not lying to him for you.

"Sid! Riddhima exclaimed. "You have to do it.

"No. I don't have to do anything, Riddhima. It is your decision. You are the one who wants that Armaan stay in the dark. So, it's your job to make him believe. Not mine, Sid fired back.

"How can you say this to me, Sid? After everything, can't I ask this of you? Riddhima asked him.

Sid softened at her question. "Riddhi, he sighed. "You're my best friend, he said, pulling her into a hug. "But, he's like my brother. I can't do this to him. Please.

Riddhima sighed. She understood where Sid was coming from. He didn't want to lie to Armaan. Especially about their relationship. But, she couldn't bring herself to tell him that she was a single woman now. It felt like the most selfish thing to do. She'd been so cruel to him after he'd come back, not even bothering to enquire how he was even though she knew of the circumstances in which he'd left. She'd then proceeded to chose Sid at every turn in life and there'd been instances when she'd practically shoved her marriage to Sid down his throat, trying to get him to understand that they couldn't be together again. After causing him so much pain, how could she even think about asking him to take her back?

"I'm sorry, she muttered into Sid's shoulder. "I know I'm putting you on the spot like this, but I need you to do this for me, Sid. Please. I don't have the courage to go to Armaan and tell him everything. I can't be so selfish with him. Again. Please. Just this once. I promise I won't ask you for anything ever again.

Sid sighed, but nodded. "Fine. Just this once. Only he knew how difficult it was to agree to this. He knew that Armaan & Riddhima belonged together. If his year long marriage to Riddhima had taught him anything, it was the fact that Riddhima would never be able to love anyone else but Armaan for the rest of her life. He was sure Armaan was the same. He so badly wanted for them to get together again, but he didn't know what to do.

"Thank you! Riddhima sighed in relief.

Armaan chose that moment to come out of the ward. The first thing he saw was Sid & Riddhima wrapped in a tight hug. A bittersweet smile formed on his lips at the sight before him. He was so happy that Sid and Riddhima had found footing in their relationship and he was happy that they were happy. But, as always, the small part of him that longed for Riddhima, even after all these years, hurt at the sight of her wrapped up in someone else's arms, even if the person was Sid, one of his best friends.

"Uhm, he cleared his throat. Sid and Riddhima immediately broke apart. They looked at Armaan shocked before quickly ducking their heads.

"Guys, have some control. Hospital hai, Armaan joked.

"Armaan! It's not like that, Sid tried to explain.

"Rehne de, Sid. It's not like you were doing something wrong. She's your wife. Lekin kamse kam koi secluded kona toh dhoond lete, yaar. Tu toh mujhse bhi aage nikla. Aise, out in the open. Tujhse bhi tips lene padenge ab, Armaan replied.

Riddhima's sharp intake of breath at the word wife didn't go unnoticed by Armaan, but he chalked it off. He had no business trying to figure out why she reacted that way. She wasn't anything to him anymore. He didn't have to worry about it. She had her husband for that.

Before Sid or Riddhima could say something to justify their actions, he said, "I don't know about you guys, but I've got lots to do, so I'll see you later. At home.

"But, Armaan, lunch? Riddhima asked, concerned. She didn't want him skipping meals.

Armaan tried to smile at her, but failed spectacularly. "Don't worry about it, Riddhima. I know how to look after myself. I've been doing it for the past 7 years.

Saying so, Armaan quickly walked away, leaving Riddhima behind, with an ache in her heart and a tear in her eye.

xxx

So, I hope you guys liked this chapter! More Riddhima and Sid interaction, so I hoped you guys liked it. AR interaction is going to happen soon, I promise. If it goes as per the plan, only one more chapter after this and then there will be AR! Yay! :D

But, till then, please comment kardo yaar. Aajkal bohot kam comments aate hai, and frankly, this lack of comments makes me not want to write. It takes a lot to motivate myself to write and then upload chapters, esp so quickly. Toh please, comment kar diya karo!

(Verse)

[BARRY]

At times like these when life is getting me down

And the world seems like it's gonna end-ship

There's at least one power that we both still have

And that's the power of

[KARA]

Friendship

(Spoken Interlude)

[BARRY]

Yeah, that's exactly what I was gonna say!

[KARA]

Yeah, it's an easy rhyme

(Song)

[BARRY]

I'm your super friend

Your super friend

I'll be there in the nick of time

If you're ever in a spot

[KARA]

And if not there in time

You can just go back in time

And give it another shot

(Spoken)

[BARRY]

I'm actually not supposed to do that anymore

[KARA]

Oh, okay

[BARRY]

Sing!

(Song)

[KARA]

I'm your super friend

Super friend

[BARRY]

When you need a compliment

I can rattle off a dozen

For instance, I have to say I'm not impressed

By your more famous cousin

(Spoken)

[KARA]

Thank you! No one ever says that!

[BARRY]

Oh, he's all like "Oh, I'm Superman!"

[KARA]

That's a really good impression

[BARRY]

Thanks!

(Song)

[BARRY AND KARA]

I'm your super friend

Super friend

[KARA]

When it comes to buddies, pal, you're the best

[BARRY]

I love you more than the lightning bolt I wear on my chest

[KARA]

If you're ever sad, I'll bring you flowers

[BARRY]

You can list "soprano" as one of your powers

[KARA]

Hey, if you're ever broke

[BARRY]

I've got the cash!

[KARA]

On my couch

[BARRY]

You're welcome to crash

[KARA]

And if you ever need a hand

[BARRY]

I'll be there in a flash

(Spoken)

[KARA]

Barry!

[BARRY]

That was funny!

(Song)

[BARRY AND KARA]

I'm your super friend!

I'm your super friend!

I'm your super-that-has-a-double-meaning-friend!

- Super Friend, Grant Gustin & Melissa Benoist

Thnx for the pm
I rushed here as soon as i read the pm
About the part its good to see shashank noticing things about armaan
But seriously im getting pissed of with ridhima and her behaviour
Like one place she wants to hide everything from armaan and let him move on in his life and the other place she is still behaving as if he is still her boyfriend.at one point she will be rude with him and now asking for his ffod..i loved with when armaan replied back that he is taking care of himself for 7 years..
Common girl
Clear up ur mind for once,..

Originally posted by: DMGThings

It's an old DMG fanfic. Mohabbat Ki Raahon Mein. :)

If you want to read it, it's posted here as well as on the DMG blog.

yea I read it on blog

"It's a new day, it's a new life, he whispered quietly to himself as was his tradition whenever he entered the hospital.
Okk I love this tradition of him... ok ok I probably love everything he does 😳



luvd how shanky was keenly observing armaan... when u said everyone's going at hospital I thought it was only boys.. bt well im glad even girls are also there...


then came ridhima thinking abt old days. Their lil moment... so ridhima realised she used to take armaan for granted.. im glad bt its too late I guess. . bt u know I can sense their new start going to be intense.. ridhima will nt shy away this tym 😉



armaan and children moment always awed me. . hr luvs babies undoubtedly... glad it was only ridhima...noone was there with her...


sid-ridhima is really something I would luv to read more about these two...


ufff armqan kya karu main uss ladke ka.. lyk always hus timings are really bakwaas..


well idk bt I felt when armaan said ridhima he knws how to take care of himself, he was hurt... chahe kitna v kehle he moved on bt he'll be never able to.. maybe now he doesn't feel those unbearable pain bt its still affects him so much



plz plz plz dont stop writing... I already told you in the other TDBU thread.. don't leave it incomplete... at least try to motive urself fr us

First of all thanks again for giving us update back to back...and aur kisi ke comment aaye na aaye mere comment zaroor aenge...that i can promise.👍🏼

Hey !

Originally posted by: friends_4dream

Thnx for the pm
I rushed here as soon as i read the pm
About the part its good to see shashank noticing things about armaan
But seriously im getting pissed of with ridhima and her behaviour
Like one place she wants to hide everything from armaan and let him move on in his life and the other place she is still behaving as if he is still her boyfriend.at one point she will be rude with him and now asking for his ffod..i loved with when armaan replied back that he is taking care of himself for 7 years..
Common girl
Clear up ur mind for once,..