*~* Geet FF Contest - - Voting *~* LAST DAY - Page 2

Entry #11 -Hoshyaarpur me Geetaria

Movie: Sholay

I thought that the characters are all appropriate for a scene from Sholay although with a twist.

Geet would be Basanti of-course
Maan would be Jai strong silent type
Dev as gaabar singh what else? :))
NT as Devs Wife ha ha didnt expect anything else did u?

Scene starts with Maan wearing black shirt and black jeans wearing his usual look of disdain at mere mortals, arriving at train station in Hoshyaarpur. Not a soul at the station.

Maan: Yeh kither aa gaya mein? Thakkur ko zameen khardne thi to yeh hi jaaga mila. Kya kehte thi woh. Zameen to dekh li hai, but kuch local problems hai!

Walks outside the station to and stops in his tracks. there before him is Geet with her Tanga (picture the scene gorgeous gaw ki ladki in channia choli, sparkling Fire in her eyes, ready bal bak on her lips) Maan ghoorta he reh gaya :) (music cue: dhak dhak karne laga mera jiyara jalne laga)

Are ao babuji, kaha jana hei? sizes Maan up, ither koi laaaaambi se gaadi nahi ayegi aap ke liya shaeri babu.
ither to Geet ka hi tanga chalta hai! bolo bolo sharmao nahi, Geet le jayegi appako kaha jaane hai?

Maan comes to his senses. Hoshyaarpur jaana hai. reluctantly gets on to Geets tanga. kaha fas gaya mein!

To hum ne kab mana ki, beth jao babju. Chal mere Sasha...Aab aap poochenge ke es ghodi ka naam kyu Sasha hai
Maan looks at Geet .......not really...he mutters

Geet ignores him and starts again...wase to aapne poocha to nahi lekin mein kehti hu, hamara gaw me kya kehte hai woh satellite se Star one chaanel aate hai...usme me maine bahut programmes dekhe aur woh ek serial mein ek ekdum tez ladke ki naam Sasha tha, to maine woh he rakh diya, kuch naya hai na...aur yeh ghodi bilkul asse tez chalte hai..

Maan sits staring at her wondering if she is ever going to stop

Bola na babuji Hoshyaarpur mein kaam hai...woh to main kya poochti ho kaam hoga to he aayega na admi, nahi to hoshyaarpur mein ek he cheez mashur hai woh hamara daku devsingh. Lekin aaap to esse wase nahi lagte, wase to devsingh to be esse wase nahi lagta pan woh to bada badmash hai. Such kahu to babuji aap ladke nahi hai woh he accha hai nahi to woh badmash aapk ke izzat lotne me padjaata.

Maan stares at her incrediously getting really annoyed with her. Kya!

Geet carries on.To mein kya kehte thi, ha, kya kaam hai batawo humko, hamre ye gauw me thodi bahut chalti hai.
Lagte to ho to aap haata khaata naw javan, shaadi kerne ko aaye ho? woh to mein jyada bolti nahi lekin aap ko kehte hu ke shaadi karne hei to jaaldi karna or ither se dulhan ko le kar jaaldi jaane.

Kya? bakwaas karte ho? mein ither shaadi kerne nahi aaya mein zamin kharidne aaya hun. Maan tells her.

Woh to hai, mujhe bhi laaga ke aap shaadi karne nahi aaye ho, aap ka chera itna rookha rookha lagta hai

Maan gives her that what the hell you are talking about look :))

Suddenly they hear horse hooves behind them and get surrounded by Daku Devsingh and his sidekicks including Devs woman NainTara....

Kaha chali subah subah Geet, aaj to mere hath aa gaye ;) dev smirks and twirls his glasses...
Aur Nain Tara is drooling whilst looking at Maan...

Dono ko utha lo, woh ladki tumare liya aur yeh haata khaata admi mere liye NT says.

Maan looks at them thinking they are all insane!

Chaal mere SASHA aaj mere aur yeh babuji ke izzat khatre mein hai!!!!!!!!

She twirls her whip and smacks devsingh and sasha, the tanga ride off like the wind.

Such mein yeh adme assa hey Geet? Maan asks incrediously

Ha babuji yeh to hamara roj ka drama hai, maine kaha tha ne Star One ane ka baad hamara gaw mein sab drama karne lage hei !!! wase to main tanga wali nahi hu secretary hu, aur woh DEvsingh and NT woh log to gaw ke Munshiji hai aur uske biwi

Maan wakes up & screams for help ...moral of the story too much Geet will give you MAANERIA Madness :))

Entry #12 - Yours Till Eternity

Movie: Hum Tum

Champagne glasses clanked as everyone raised a toast to Aditya and Pinky... Two friends who were now going to be joined in matrimony before the sacred fire a week this day.
Who would have thought that they would ever be so compatible and had it not been Maan's desire to see his friend happy this would never had been the case.

Geet ran down with the tray of flowers and knocked into a jealous looking Sasha. Sasha was going to walk away but then saw how happy Geet was and knew it would be perfect opportunity to hurt her.. to tell her the truth behind Aditya and Pinky's love story..

She grabbed Geet's hand and looking upset and worried for her, placed her hand upon her shoulder..

Sasha: Bachari Geet.. Aaj tum kitni khush laag rahi ho.. par shayad aur zyaada kuch hoti agar Pinky ki jhaaga tum hoti..

Geet: Yeh kya tum keh rahi ho Sashi..

Sashi: Vahi jo sach hai.. Tumhare aur Aditya ke beech main yeh Pinky aa gayi na?

Geet: Bakwaas mat karo..!!

Sasha: Bakwaas? Kaisi bakwaas.. Kya yeh sach nahin ke Dev Sir ke jaane ke baadh tumne aapna bacha koh diya ta?

Geet looked pained at hearing Dev's name.. The first love of her life who cheated her and went away only to come back to take away everything important from her.. her child. Geet's filled with tears but wanted to know Sasha knew. No one knew about Dev or her child except Maan, Pinky and Aditya.. Wiping her tears, she looked coldly at Sasha and starred into her small eyes.

Geet: Yeh saab tumhe kisne kaha?

Sasha: Toh yeh sach hai? Main janti thi Maan Sir ne jhoot nahin kaha tha..

Sasha smiled smuggly at knowing that Geet was going to believe everything she said. She knew that this would lead to a huge rift between Geet and Maan and this would be her chance to take her place in Maan's life.

Geet: Aur kya Maan Sir ne kaha mere bhare main?

Sasha: Ab main kya kahoon Geet.. Sir ne..

Geet: Maine kahaan aur kya kahan mere bhare main Maan Sir ne?

Sasha: Dev sir ke jhaane ke bhaad, Maan Sir ne tumhari aur Aditya ke rishte ki baath chalne ki koshish ki thi.. voh saafal bhi ho jaata agar Pinky ne aapne dil ki baath Adi ko nahin batai hoti.. mujhe laaga Maan Sir ne tumhe pooch kar yeh rishte ki baath chalee hogi?

Infuriated Geet, grabbed Sasha's arm with force and in anger stormed off..

Sasha smiled to herself knowing that Geet would blast Maan now for making her personal life public.. but Geet was unaware that Maan was innocent..

Sasha remembered back to the night she got hold of the truth about Geet.

*** Flashback ***

Sasha was in the office till late with Aditya and Maan.. She was tired and Maan seeing her restlessness sent her home and asked her to study the file within the next day and come back..

Sasha in a rush forgot the file and realised when she got down to the car. She ran up but saw Maan and Aditya discussing something.. she walked towards the door and listened in..

Maan was explaining to Aditya how he felt bad for Geet and wanted to do something for her, he wanted to relieve her pain.. but how? He didn't think himself worthy after what his brother had put Geet through and though he had disowned his brother and disinherited him from the family property it felt as though nothing was done to punish Dev and Naintara.

A helpless Maan wanted someone kind and fun loving to fill Geet's life with happiness.. He asked Aditya to accept Geet.. Aditya being loyal to his boss accepted he would try.. Then what followed was totally unseen.. Maan couldn't force his decision upon Aditya knowing he and Pinky loved each other.

*** End Of Flashback ***

Elsewhere Geet wandered around the guests looking for Maan but couldn't see him anywhere.. She was tired of searching for him.. in desperation she phoned him.. and sent a message reading..

'Mujhe Aapse Milna Hai, Abhi Ise Waqt.. Bahar Garden Mein, Main Apka Intaar Kar Rahin Hoon.'

Moments later Maan came out and saw Geet standing with his back to him.. he walked over and placed his hand upon her shoulder..It sent a shiver down Geet's spine at feeling his touch.

She turned to face him.. Maan was taken aback at seeing Geet's state, her eyes were glistening with tears and her mascara had ran.. It pained him imensely to see Geet in this state. He never wanted to see Geet crying, never. He reached into his pocket and got out his handkicheif. He leaned to wipe Geet's tears but she grabbed his hand and threw it away.

Maan could see pain in Geet's eyes, he could see anger in her eyes but why? What had upset so much on such a happy occasion. He mustered the courage to say something.

Maan: Kya hua Geet? Tum roh kyun rahin ho?

Geet was silent and this worried Maan further..

Maan: Geet.. Geet!! Kya hua? Mujhe batao..

Geet: Kyun? Takhe aap sare office ko bataa sakho ke bachari Geet ke saath kya hua?

Maan: Kya? Main aasa karoonga?

Geet: Dev ki baath to aap chupa na sakee to yeh baath aapke zehan main kaise rahe payegi..

Maan: Geet.. tum hosh bhi ho ke tum mujhpe kya ilzaam laga rahin ho?

Geet: Maine aapko sab kuch batadiya ta, kyunki main sochti thi ke aap meri takleef saamjathe hai.. par aap..!! Aap kabhi nahin badle.. Aap hamesha mujhse nafraat karte rahen.. aur jab Dev ki baath samne aayi to aapko mere se hamdardi shoru hogayi.. par aapki nafraat, karvahaat kabhi nahin badli..

Maan was shocked at the words coming out of Geet's mouth.. he had never hated her... never, If only Geet could know how much he loved her. How much he wished he could hold her close, give her every happiness she could dream of.. If only..

Geet continued.. : Aur ussi hamdardi ki wajhe se aapne jakhe Aditya se meri aur uski shaadi ki baath kehdi..

Maan took a step back.. How did Geet know? Who had told her? Aditya? Pinky? They were too busy to tell her and being her friends wouldn't.

Geet: Aap yehi soch rahe hai na.. ke Geet ko kaise paata chala? Jisne bhi bataya shayad voh jhoot bhi bhool sakta tha par aapka chehra dekh kar sab bayaan hogaya hai ke aap yeh baath jaante bhi hai aur yeh baath samjhte bhi hai..

Maan: Geet voh.. main sirf tumhari khushi chaata tha.. sirf khushi..

Geet: Aapne kaise soch liya ke main Aditya ke saath khush rahoongi? Aapko kisne aadhikaar diya ke aap meri zindagi main dakhal de.. Aditya mera dost tha.. Hum dono shaadi..

Maan: Geet..!! Aditya kitna accha hai.. samjhdaar hai.. tum uske saath khush rehti..

Geet clapped and laughed mockingly at Maan..

Geet: Aap to saab jante hai.. Aapne kyun laga ke main Aditya ke saath khush rehti? Bolo?

Maan: To kya tum mera saath khush reh paati? Batayo Geet..

He came closer to Geet and held her close.. he looked deep into her eyes.. their lips almost touching..

Maan: Batayo Geet.. kya tum mere saath khush reh paati?

Geet pushed Maan away and ran off crying into the main hall again.. she reached near the door and broke down and sobbed.. Just then Aditya came.. he placed his hand on her head..

Aditya: Geet.. Unka tareka galat shayad tha.. paar voh dil ke bohat saaf aur sache hai.. tumhe pata hai ke voh tumse kitna pyaar karte hai?
Voh yeh baath khud be nahin jante hoge.. paar yeh sach hai..

Geet: Adi tum? wiping her tears she looked up..

Aditya: Kya hua Geet?

Geet: Tum sab kuch jaante the..

Aditya felt guilty and gave Geet a tissue.. he was about to get up.. but felt the need to say something to Geet..

Aditya: Geet... Voh tumhe bohat pyaar karta hai.. uska raasta shayad galat tha par.. sach toh yeh hai ke voh tumhe sirf khush dekna chaahta tha.. isi liye..

Geet looked up at Aditya.. What was he saying? Maan loved Geet?

Aditya: Voh shayad yeh khud bhi nahin jaanta Geet.. Par main yeh ke sakta hoon.. agar tum uske aachepaan ko dekh paati toh shayad uska pyaar bhe dekh sakti.. Voh sirf tumhari khushi chata hai Geet.. sirf tumhari khushi..
Aur agar tumne yeh baath ab nahin samjhi.. toh tum usee shayad hamesha ke liye ko doon gi..

Aditya walked away... leaving Geet in deep thought.. Did Maan love her? She remembered all her moments with him..

The dhaaba, the rain hug, Dadi being ill and Geet staying with Maan, everything.. all their special moments..

Geet got up and wiped away her tears.. How couldn't she see how much Maan loved her? Did he love her? She wanted answers..

She ran down the corridor and into the gardens', she looked around hopelessly but couldn't see him anywhere.. Where could he have gone? Why had he gone?
Had she lost him forever??

She looked everywhere but couldn't find him.. she sat near the lakeside.. looking up at the beauiful moon...

Geet: Babaji.. Main ki khara?? Mujhe ek mauka do.. main use sirf ek baar baatein chati hoon ke main unhse pyaar karti hoon.. sirf ek baar..

'Toh khe kyun nahin dehti??'

It was him.. God had sent him back.. Geet turned and saw him standing behind her..

Geet: Bataya kyun nahin??

Maan: Kya?

Geet: Khe tum mujhe itna chate ho..

Maan was speechless.. Geet was asking him.. He couldn't deny it now.. He knew if he did he would lose the best thing that would ever happen for him..

Maan opened her arms and Geet melted into his arms..

Geet: Le main hun gayi aan teri sohneya..

'Pagal' Maan chuckled tightening his hold of her.. never to let go again..

Entry #13 - Reunited Yet Lost

Movie: Laila-Majnu and Namaste London

The wind blew viciously, it was out of place after such a beautiful day. It was an annual mela in Amritsar and everyone had gathered to celebrate the occasion of Vaisakhi.

'Vaisakhi di lakh lakh badiyaan saree parivaare nu' exlaimed a musician as he started his act..

Many stands had been set up. Young, old, adults, children all together celebrating. Woman having their mendhi done, fairground rides set up, clothes stores, bangles and anklets.. Food stalls including hot jalebi's and cold lassi's.

The occasion was extremely colourful and a huge dancefloor had been set up for everyone to join in on the bhangra. Everyone was enjoying themselves.. especially Geet Handa.

Geet Handa was the grand-daugheter of the rich zamindar of Hoshiarpur and had been allowed by her Darji to enjoy the mela as she would be marrying in just a fortnight to her childhood fiance Dev, a NRI settled in Delhi. Geet knew she would be moving miles away from her family to marry someone she had never met therefore asked her grandfather just one chance to live her life.

Geet heard from her friends that the mela was amazing but this was beyond her best dreams.. It was the most colourful event she had ever come across.

'Oye Geet.. Chal..' yelled Preet her childhood friend above all the noise.

'Ni Main Pari Toh Vaad Soni Na Koi Mere Vargee Honi' The speakers blasted..

Turning Geet jumped at hearing her favourite song..

'Chal Preeto.. Mera gaana lag gaya.. Ais ganee te tha bhangra pa lende..'

She grabbed Preet's arm and dragged her to start dancing in full energy and gusto..

Dancing she swung her paranda around and knew it had hit someone...

Slowly she turned to face a young, well built, man, standing still in tracks, scared at what he would say to her. She didn't know what to expect from this stranger.

He stood staring at her, it seemed as though he was uneffected by being hit in the face by her hair..

'Uff ho, eh tu ki kitha' Preet scolded her.

'Sorry Veerji.. eh thori pagal ya..' apologised Preet on behalf of Geet to this young man, still no answer..

Geet stared into his eyes.. What was she doing?? but she couldn't help herself. In just one moment it felt she had found someone that she knew for eons.

'Tu chal.. Geet chal..'

Preet walked away Geet leaving the young man who still was looking after Geet.

'Geet' said the man..

Just then another young man joined him..

'Maan, tu ithe.. Ta main tenu udhar labda phirda si'

Maan.. Maan Singh Khurana; The eldest and only son of Khurana's who were leading industrialists in Dehli but were currently on holiday in Punjab in their ancestreal village attending the mela.

Maan was mesmerised by Geet's beauty and this was highly unusual as he had never felt this was for anyone.. but their was something about her.. Just something that had drew him in this small encounter. So small that all he knew was that her name was Geet..
He wanted to know more... He wanted to speak to her..

He ran in the same direction that Geet had disappeared but where would he find her? In such a huge venue? How would he find her? and What would he do meeting her? He knew nothing about her.. nothing.. but he couldn't give and he wouldn't.

He ran through each aisle of stands.. He was puffed up but couldn't find her anywhere. Just then he saw her.. she was purchasing churiya from the churi stalls..

He grabbed her hand and pulled her to one side..

'Chad mainu?' gasped Geet, scared at who had the audicity to grab her.. Looking up she was stood before Maan again..

'Geet' Maan asked..

'Tu mera naa kidha jaanda?' questioned Geet.

'Teri saheli ne tera naam abhi pukara ta.. Geet..' smiled Maan.

Worried and still unsure why he had followed her Geet turned around to walk away..

'Ek minute Geet'

'Tenu daar ni laagda? Kalli kudi naal gaal karde nu?'

'Daar kadhi gaal da? Mere rab jandaa ke mere mann vich koi mehl ni'

'Gaala bari changiya karada'

Maan stopped and came closer to Geet.. and held her hand..

'Chado.. koi vekh le ga..'

'Geet.. Aaj main tenu pehli vaari vekhya paar sau Rab di main tenu pehla da jhanda..pehchaan da.. pyaar karda'

His lips came closer to Geet.. her heart began to beat faster..

'Chado.. Meri mangani ho chuki hai'

Maan let go..

'Main tenu jhandi vi nahin aur tussi...' Geet said this but it felt wrong? Why?? She was saying the right thing.. What did she know about him? He was nothing but a stranger to her so why? Why was it so painful to say goodbye to him..

'Maan.. Maan Singh Khurana'

'Tu jho koi bhi aa.. saada koi mel ni..'

'Geet' Maan voiced sounded pained.. It was as though he was breaking at losing this beautiful stranger.. but why this attachment? Why was she so special to him.

'Maan, mainu jaa lehn de'

'Tu aapne maangtar nu pyaar kardi aah?'

'Ishq Di Mere Mitraan Pechaan Ki, Mit Jaave Jad Jid Apnaan Di'.. (Namaste London)

Saying this she walked away.. leaving Maan lonely.. He watched as she got into the car with her friend.. she looked back at him. He could never forget her.. He knew she felt something for him. He would search for her.. for his love..

Entry #14 - Meri Sangini

Movie: Chandni

My fanfic is inspired from a scene in "Chandni", where a brooding Vinod Khanna (Who's a widower) watches Sridevi in the rain & thinks about his wife Juhi.

Part -1

"Noooo Rajji,please Yaar,don't!!", shrieked Geet as her best friend Rajji pulled her out into the rain. Rajji was the younger sister of the famous businessman Maan Singh Khurana, who owned the Khurana constructions.Rajji's & Maan's parents died in an accident two years back, so she lived with her Dadi & Maan, who incidently had lost his wife and unborn child in the same accident.Geet's house was adjacent to Rajji's and they were childhood friends.Geet's father had passed away when she was very young..she lived with her mother & uncles.Dadi was very fond of the pretty,bubbly Geet.The only person Geet used to stay away from was Maan ,because after his loss,he had become very brooding & rarely spoke to anyone.His mood swings were unpredictable.Rajji & dadi were really worried about him since he had started relying heavily on alcohol to forget his worries.Two long years but still he was hiding behind an unseen wall separating him from the rest of the world...

Part - 2

Maan was nursing a drink,when he heard Geet's shriek & Rajji's laughter.He came to the balcony and looked down at the girls.They were drenched from head to toe but were laughing & enjoying themselves in the rain.Maan kept on looking at Geet. He realized that he couldn't take his eyes off her.She looked ethereal in that white salwar of her's; and WoW What a figure!!Her eyes so beautiful, so expressive,her pert little nose & her lips or are they really rose petals??How soft will they be???..how'll they feel against his own??...Maan came back to his senses with a jolt.."What's happening to me?? How can I think about Geet like this?/ I shouldn't be anywher near Geet because my thoughts have become so controllable when she's around.How will I tell this to anybody? Geet..Oh please, She is only rajji's age..I've been seeing her since childhood..when did I start noticing her?/,her beauty??" he shook his head as though to convince himself .." No I cant lose control..not good for me,not good for Geet either..since she's engaged to be married".

Part-3

Geet quite unaware of the tall figure watching her intensely,was having a gala time. She couldn't stop smiling.."Oh Babaji,Dev will be coming down soon from Canada & then our marriage,Yippee!" Rajji had been teasing her from morning,but she loved it..she loved it when Rajji spoke endlessly about Dev & her..even though she pretended to be annoyed at the teasing." Achoo",sneezed Rajji.."Okay Rajji,that's it..let's go inside..I don't want to catch a cold, my Dev's coming in two days.I dont want to go in front of him cherry nosed like a joker." " Okay Geet ,you & your Dev..come let's go",said Rajji & the girls ran inside the Khurana mansion giggling merrily.

Part-4

Geet changed into one of Rajji's salwars.The yellow colour did wonders to her complexion."Ummm kaafi khoobsurat lagti hi, kya baat hai Geet? Iss glow ka raaz kya hain??",she asked her reflection.."shayad Devji ka pyar ka asar hai, Haina??" "oye, Geet stop admiring yourself & come out..Dadiji wants us to join her for tea." "ufff ,yeh ladki bhi na,kuch bhi bol deti ho," , mutterd Geet under her breath & walked towards the dioning room.In the hall she saw Maan painting..she was surprised to see that.. right from her childhood she had always admired him & his talents.He was a very happy-go-lucky person, a good singer & a wonderful painter & a very shrewd businessman too. He & Sameera bhabhi have always been very friendly & nice to Geet..but that accident two years back had changed him to that extent that Geet doesn't recognize this new Maan .His smile,his cheerfulness..all lost with Sameera..no more music, no more colours in his life....

Part-5

But the past couple of months,things seemed a bit different.She could see a spark in his

eyes, a hint of a smile every time he looked at her.he had also started painting recently..Dadi & Rajji were happy to see this change."If only he stopped drinking & came back to his original self...I just hope he'll find happiness soon", thought Geet. She really wanted to see what he was painting but was not quite sure about his mood so decided to stay away." geet", called out Maan. "please come here,i want to show you something". Geet was surprised..it's been ages since he had a proper conversation with her or anyone else for that matter.She went near him. he lifted the veil covering his painting..she gaped at it open mouthed..the smiling face that looked back at her was her own!! He had painted her!!! She couldn't imagine when she looked this radiant & beautiful! dadi & Rajji who had also seen the painting gasped in surprise.."wow Maan,this is your best painting till date",said Dadi."you've captured the expressions of her face quite well,great going bro", Rajji was all excited.Maan smiled & looked at Geet waiting for her reaction. Geet was still in shock."geet,Geet,Did you like this painting?" "like?? I love it!! Please maanji,can I show this to maa & Devji?".."sure Geet,you can take this along.consider this as my wedding gift",said Maan. "Gee thanks Maanji,you're very sweet",Maan smiled at her excitement." Dadi, Rajji , got to go now..Devji's coming soon na? some last minute preparations to be done,Bye every body". Maan kept looking at her retreating figure.He couldn't figure out wht he felt terrible every time she mentioned about her impending wedding with Dev..

Part-6

The heavens had opened up without warning that day..Maan was driving back from work. He had been feeling restless all day & the dull climate was somehow adversely affecting his mood.He had downed a couple of pegs on his way out. "such heavy rains !..can't even see the road ahesd,Oh shit!", cursed Maan. " Oye..isn't it Geet?but what's she doing here alone ?". Maan stopped the car near the bus stop,where Geet was waiting.."Geet, why are you here?". "Maanji, I had to go to college to get my certificates..Ufff..i've been standing here for quite sometime. I think the buses are delayed due to the rain". "No problem Geet.hop in . i'm going home..will drop you". "No Maanji,my clothes are wet,don't want to spoil your favourite SUV,I'll wait here some more." " are you crazy? Get in right now!!". His firm tone changed her decision. Reluctantly she got in at the back..Maan didn't like it,but let it be. Geet was quiet for a while since she was not sure how to carry on a conversation with him,but when Maan asked about her wedding preparations,she started chatting excitedly forgetting all her inhibitions. Maan adjusted the rear view mirror on her..Her eyes mesmerised him..the wet lashes, the rain drops on her face & neck..her innocent smile..the melody of her laughter...Maan's emotions were going totally out of control, the alcohol had begun to show it's effect. He abruptly stopped the car. Geet was puzzled, "what happened Maanji?" He got out without answering. "what's Maanji doing?..Oh,maybe something wrong with the car..Babaji, na jaane kyun ..dil bechain hai..lagta hai kuch galat hone wala hai..Maanji aur meri raksha karna.." Little did she know.......

Part-7

She was watching the rain when she felt his presence.Geet turned to face him. She was surprised to see him there.. so near her...but what was he doing at the back seat?? " What happened maanji?" " Geet i have been trying to tell you this ,but couldn't muster the courage..but guess i'm running out of time here..it's your marriage next week na?" She thought she caught a whiff of alcohol in his breath. She was scared at his proximity..his eyes as dark as the night..she couldn't read the expressions in them & that scared her more.."Maanji can we talk later?..I want to go home..Maa is waiting for me ". " No Geet, It's now or never for me.please understand ...I love you!! Will you marry me??" " Whatt?? are you crazy?? you're drunk I don't want to talk to you..you either start the car or else i'm walking out"..she said holding the door handle..Maan panicked.letting her go now is like letting her go forever from his life..he can't afford it....he was slowly recovering from his loss...she was his only ray of hope..cant lose her too..never!! " No Geet, you're not going anywhere", he grabbed her arm & pulled her towards him.. Her eyes dilated with fear..her started trembling as she saw raw desire flicker in his eyes. She tried hard to push him away, but couldn't free herself from his vice like grip.

Part-8

He pushed her down on the seat,pinning her there with his body..After the initial shock, she started sobbing & pleading..but it fell on deaf ears.His mad desire & need for her won over his brain. She felt her clothes being torn away..his hands were touching her where no man has ever touched ...she tried to scream but his mouth had already covered her's. Realizing taht she was getting out of breath,he withdrew from his kiss. She pleaded again.." Maanji, please mujhe chhod dijiye..Aapko pata haina ki Dev ke saath meri shaadi hai..you know every thing..you know how much we are in love..please dont do this to me". Yes,yes, he knew everything, but this was his last chance to make her his forever, No Matter What!! He shut his soul out while she sobbed & pleaded for mercy..He forced himself through her virgin body..A flash of blinding pain rocked her body pushing her into an unending hole of darkness..She felt nothing...only numbness as she drifted into unconsciousness....

Part-8

Satiated & exhausted ,he sat up. Somewhere along he had felt Geet giiving up fighting.."she must have been tired ..but I'm happy that she gave in"..He turned to look at her..for a second he failed to recognize the battered figure lying there..her lips bloody & swollen...bruises & bite marks all over her body... she lay there limp like a battered doll.

"Oh God..did I do that?", he closed his eyes in remorse & shame.He covered her & stepped out in the rain as though to wash away his sins..the effect of alcohol had also worn away...He stood in the rain wondering whether he'll be strong enough to face the consequences of the crime he had just committed. After this henious act ,how was he ever going to face the girl, whom he loved the most in this world ? and to whom.. he had inflicted the ultimate wound...a wound which would probably never heal !!!!

Part-9

Three years later

------------------------

"Get up Adi,we'll be late for office". Pinky tried to wake her husband up."Adi dont you know that our company has been taken over by the Khurana empire?? Today our new boss is joining office,please Adi, I don't want to be late today" That did the trick,the mention of 'New Boss' made Adi sit up.He had heard from his friends that this 'Mr.Khurana' was no person to deal with.They had warned that he was a beast masquerading as a human..."Geeet,hurry up yaar,can't afford to be late today".Geet who's staying at Pinky's house as PG came out of her room."kya hua? What's so special about today?" "Yaar Geet,maana ki you were on leave but dont you remember what I told you..New Boss is coming yaar Mr. Maan Khurana!!".Geet felt a shiver run down her spine..Maan Khurana..she held on to the door to keep herself from falling." Kya hua? You look as though you've seen a ghost"..Pinky then noticed that her friend was silently shedding tears."Geet ,please dont cry..Are you all right?"."he's the one", said Geet between her sobs." Who?What?",Pinky was totally confused. " Pinky..Maan, he's the one responsible for ruining my life..he..he was the one who raped me"

Part-10

Pinky stood rooted to the floor.She felt helpless...She was Geet's distant relative.When Geet shifted from Mumbai to Delhi,Pinky & Adi were more than willing to help her..She didnt keep any secrets from them & they respected her for her courage & supported her wholeheartedly when she decided to move on ..She never mentioned the name of the man who threw her in hell,Pinky never asked also..She knew that Geet's wedding with Dev was called off & that she was disowned by her family..Her mother was too weak to support her ,going against her uncles..but she insisted that Geet should go to Delhi & seek Pinky's help. Pinky looked at her dear friend ..saw her tear strained face...she hugged Geet."Please stop crying..we'll find a way".."what way Pinky.I'm the MD's PA..how will I stay away from him?? But I need this job badly..If I was alone, i'd have thrown my resignation on his face & walked off but since I have...",she couldn't complete her sentence..a little voice called out from the room.."Mamma,Tia's hugeee". Geet looked lovingly at her daughter.She was trying to get off from the bed.Geet scooped her up in her arms.."so, mamma's princess is hungee..say hungry"..."no mamma, hungeee",Tia lisped sweetly." Give her to me Geet,I'll fed her.You go & get ready."

Part-11

Geet stood there confused."Please Babaji mujhe raah dikhaiye.Main Maan ko face nahin karna chahti.Nafrat karti hoon main unse..aur meri Tia..I dont want him anywhere near her..Humari raksha karna Babaji. My life was turned upside down because of him.Dev refused to marry me & when I became pregnant,my family threw me out.He committed the crime but I received all the punishment..Why Babaji, Why??"...She closed her eyes..Tia's little face came before her eyes.."To hell with Maan. For me.. Tia is my biggest priority.I came all the way to Delhi,went through hell all these years just for her.I'll keep going no matter waht!! He's the one who should worry..because he's the one at fault". Satisfied at her newly found courage & confidence, Geet started getting ready for office.They dropped Tia at the day care center on the way.

Part-12

"Guys & gals..Mr.Khurana has called for a staff meeting ..so all of you proceed towards the conference room",said Sasha ,the chief architect.The staff waited with bated breath for the arrival of their new boss.The door to the conference room opened & there stood one of the most dashing man on earth.All the women in the room except Geet gasped at the sight .."God he's hot!!",Pinky whispered to Geet & immediately regretted it, as her friend glared at her..He was standing there looking like a greek god ,strikingly handsome,dashing,totally in control & quite aware of the admiration..His eyes scanned the crowd & found what he was looking for...his Geet.He had been on th look out for her after that incident.He had even mustered up the courage to go & ask Geet's family-her hand in marriage..but they insulted him & shooed him away.Dadi & rajji were also upset with him.Finally left with no choice,he took off to London to escape the wrath of his family as well as Geet's.But he never gave up on her.When he found out that her family disowned her,he immediately instructed his security personnel to hunt her down.Finally after three years,he came to know that Geet's in Delhi.He found out where she was working & at once decided to take over that company..so that he can bring her back to him forever by hook or crook!!He knew it was not an easy task but afterall Maan Singh Khurana loved challenges.

Part-13

She stood frozen as his gaze met her's.She couldn't read his eyes but was surprised to note that he didn't seem surprised to see her there.He had a smug look on his face which made her wonder whether all this was more than a coincidence. "I know Geet you hate me, but soon..soon I'm going to change that into love..and that's a promise!!",he vowed. He spoke to the staff in his usual style..elegant but strict..The men looked intimidated while the women were ready to do anything for him.When they dispersed he casually asked Sasha to send his PA to his cabin.Geet gritted her teeth..but remembering her decisions in the morning,decided to go & face him. she was puzzled at his actions..she had thought that he'll avoid her,ignore her, will have difficulty facing her but no...this guy wanted to see her right away..she hated his guts..

Part-14

The pink salwar suited her well.He noticed that she had put on little weight ..her curves were fuller & he loved it.Geet looked up,feeling his eyes on her..she hated the confident look on his face,hated the way his eyes were appraising & admiring her, hated the fact that he was looking breathtakingly handsome." No Geet, what are you thinking?This man is a Raavan with the face of an angel.Don't fall for his looks..How can you forget the pain & shame?..all thanks to him..so stay away!!!",while she was muttering this under her breath, he got up & walked towards her.She looked at him puzzled.Before she could react,he pulled her towards him & hugged her . " Oh Geet,my love, I have been waiting for this moment for so long...but not anymore..I've found you & now I wont let you go away from me..not even for a moment." He kissed the nape of her neck & pressed her more to him. Geet was furious.." How dare he !!After what he's done to me,he's acting as though I'm his long lost love". She pushed him with all her might." How dare you Mr.Khurana? If you dare try to do this again,I'll leave the job for sure!". " Geet please,let me explain..I know you're hurt & your annoyance is justifiable..I can understand all your feelings and emotions,but please Geet,try to see the situation from my point of view too". " No thanks,.not interested in the point of view of a bloody RAPIST",seething with anger,she walked out.,trying to hide from him the tears that were threatening to roll out.

Part-15

He stood still as though somebody has thrashed him hard across the face. "RAPIST"...He knew he deserved only this but her words stung his ears. For the past three years he had been preparing himself to face her wrath but none of his preparations seemed to help now.He felt hopeless & shattered. He was determined to bring her back to his life,but seeing her anger & hatred, he decided to take it easy..He didnt want ot iritate her any further. But as days passed,he slowly & steadily managed to establish a professional relationship with her.Geety was also surprised at his behaviour..not even once did he attempt to touch her or say something personal.He was not the kind of beast people were talking about. In a short span, he had become very popular among staff & clients.He was genuinely fond of the chirpy&bubbly Pinky.She reminded him of the young Geet in Mumbai. She has changed a lot now, She has become way too serious..too quiet...no pak-pak..no smile..What have I done to her?, he thought sadly. "I'm sorry Geet..but I'll make it up for all these years..I promise..I'll fill your world with laughter & colour & love.."

Part-16

Pinky & Adi liked Maan too but never discussed about their appreciation in front of Geet. Pinky was finding it hard to believe that a person like Maan could do such a henious act..Geet was slowly thawing towards Maan. She seems to have accepted him as her boss..He was happy that atleast now there was no awkwardness..but little she knew about his problems.. It was taking every ounce of his self control to stop himself from touching her or looking at her for too long.He knew that he had to tread carefully or else she'll disappear again.Maan had brought Dadi along with him to Delhi.She was forced to forgive him when he told her his plans to bring Geet back to his life.Rajji was married& was in her sasural.She is still not in talking terms with him.As a woman Dadi too hated what he had done to Geet,but out of love for Maan & Geet,& ofcourse seeing his plight & pain,she decided to support him.

Part-17

Maan was taking a stroll in the beach. He was happy with the pace of his budding relationship with Geet.Atleast now she has stopped threatening about leaving the job..he had hope..but how to connect with her on a personal level?? He raked his brains.His thoughts were interrupted by a little voice lisping away in glory.He turned around to see a pretty little girl running behind a bright coloured ball which was almost her size.She was talking to herself in her own sweet language.She caught hold of the ball & called out "Mamma..sheee Tia's ball".."No baby,it's not shee..say see"..Maan sucked his breath when he saw her...his Geet.She had not noticed him,her eyes were on the child..She smiled and held out her arms.Tia ran to her & hugged her.She lifted the child & kissed her chubby cheeks,her tiny nose & her little tummy.The child squealed in delight.Maan couldn't take his eyes off them. What an adorable sight ..but a question was gnawing the back of his mind...a child??..did she marry again?..but the detectives he'd sent didn't mention anything about that..He stood there confused..but walked away when he saw Pinky & Adi approaching Geet.

Part-18

"Pinky can you please come to my cabin, I want to talk to you urgently!!" "Jee Sir".Pinky knew Maan sir liked her,but was slightly apprehensive hearing his firm tone."Sir?".."Haan Pinky..sit down..Ummm..err..saw you & Adi yesterday at the beach..I know you dont have a baby..so who was that little girl?",Pinky didn't know how to respond.If she told him the truth,Geet would definitely murder her..but he has the right to know, Haina/?..rather he must know!!How long will Geet suffer like this..Tia's growing fast... soon she'll start asking about her father...He looks genuinely interested & concerned..should she tell him??What if Tia brings them together???..Pinky was uncertain..so she decided to consult Adi before telling Maan about Tia."Ummm sir..I'll be back in a moment..if you don't mind".."What is it Pinky? something urgent??",Maan asked, clearly impatient now ."Woh sir,main.."." Pinky ,who was the child?",his menacing tone scared Pinky..she blurted out "Woh..woh..baccha ..she's Geet's baby girl,Tia". Maan sat there dumbfounded.When he found his voice,he asked."but where is her husband?"."She's not married,she's a single mother.".."What??But..." "Hold on sir,don't jump into any conclusions about my friend's character- She was brutally raped..the child is the aftermath of that tragedy".

Part-19

Pinky's words reverbrated in his ears.He closed his eyes & turned his face away from her so that Pinky wont notice the tear drop that has escaped.."Sweet God,Tia is my baby..so Geet was pregnant with my child..that's why her family disowned her..she hated me but atill decided to carry my child in her womb & even went against her family for our baby..Geet my poor baby..she went through hell to bring Tia in this world..I fled like a coward..was no where around to help her fight her battles ..but still she emerged as the winner..oh baby I love you so much..I know she hates me to the core..I dont deserve her love..afterall it was I who killed her dreams,her happiness,her future..please Bhagwan mera madad kijiye..I promise,I'll be her ghulam for the rest of my life & promise to give her all the happiness & love till my last breath..make her love me...make her accept me...please"He sobbed..Pinky quietly left the cabin..She wanted to comfort him but thought maybe this was his penance..but now she was sure about his true love ..she was sure what she must do!!

Part-20

Maan sat up on his bed..he has two goals in his life now..his Geet & his Tia..He went to Dadi's room."Dadima..sit with me please..I want to tell you something and that is onna take your breath away". "What is it Maan? -She noticed how happy & excited he looked..Did Geet agree to marry him?..nah..that's a really far fetched thought.."Maan,are you going to tell me or not?".."Dadi..Geet & I..we, we have a baby girl". "What???",dadi felt asthough her heart stopped beating. "Haan Dadi,I saw my daughter yesterday..she'd two, I believe,...so pretty..so beautiful..like her mother..I didn;t get a closer look..oh how I wish to see her again". Dadi couldn't believe her ears..A great grand daughter..her eyes filled with tears.."Maan,I want to see her..please take me to her".I will Dadi,promise..but wer'll have to find a way to meet her.I dont want to accept Geet so...."."It's ok Maan, you please arrange with Adi & Pinky..If you want, I'll talk to them myself.." No Dadi,I'll call them myself".They both smiled through their tears & Dadi hugged Maan.They went to bed..their minds overwhelming with happiness..but sleep evaded them that night.

Part-21

Maan could convince Pinky ,but Adi was not happy with the whole idea.He felt asthough they were cheating Geet.Pinky explained the good intentions behind it,how she wanted Maan & Geet to unite..so that Tia will have a perfect family & a bright future..Adi was happy for Geet & Tia so decided to play along.Geet was resting after office so they volunteered to take Tia to the beach. <Maan & Dadi were already there.Dadi couldn't take her eyes off the little pari ,Adi was carrying.Maan was right she did look a lot ;like Geet but Dadi could catch Maan's traits here & there.Maan looked at his nanhi pari & smiled.She looked at him..seeing his smile..knitted her tiny eyebrows as though wondering who he was. He took those dimpled fists and kissed them.."Oh Okay..eventhough he looks big..he's nice",Tia was convinced,so she flashed a pretty smile at him,that melted his heart.She had her mother's pretty smile & complexion."Her eyes were darker than Geet..wait a minut she has my eyes..but that pout,,that's definitely Geet's", he chuckled at the thought.He extended his arms towards her.She gave Adi a puzzled look ...should I..shouldn't I kinda look..Adi smiled & nodded so she let Maan carry her.

Part-22

She was so soft,so tiny against against her six-footer dad.He threw her in the air & caught her.She giggled clearly enjoying the game.He kissed her tiny nose & her dimpled cheeks taking utmost care not to scratch her face with his stubble.Within no time she bonded with him.Dadi wanted to carry her as well,but Tia refused to leave Maan & hid her face in his shoulder.Maan laughed at her cute antics.The father - daughter duo looked content & happy with each other.Adi & Pinky kept Dadi company while Maan played with Tia.She wanted to play with the waves.He stood holding her tiny palm in his.. looking at the waves and the setting sun..he imagined holding another soft hand along with Tia's ...his Geet's..only then he'll be complete..

Part-23

The secret meetings went on for a while.Geet was totally unaware of what was happening until one day Tia casually mentioned about her Daddy. The word caught Geet's attention.."Daddy? who's that Tia?".."Tia's daddy..thish big"..she held her hand high.."Tia's daddy..Tia's daddy",she started chanting.Geet was furious but before she could do something ,Pinky carried Tia to their room.Pinky told Adi "I think Geet has some doubts.Next time we should be careful." That evening they told Maan about Geet's doubts."It's okay Pinky..I think the time has come for Geet to know the truth". He bought toys,gifts & dresses for Tia & Geet & sent the stuff through them. When Pinky & Adi reached home,Geet was preparing dinner.She came out when she heard Tia's excited "Mammmaa look".She was taken aback by the amount of gifts & toys they brought in."Pinky,Adi, what's with you guys?So many gifts...but...".."It's okay, Geet your Kanjoos jeeja was on a spending spree today ..so Tia & I decided to make most of it. It doesn't happen often,na?",Pinky looked at Adi with a knowing smile."look Geet,we've bought something for you also",Pinky took out a royal blue salwar suit with pearls at the hem.It looked stunning.The embedded crystals in the suit shined like stars in the night sky."Pinky this is breathtaking..but it looks damn expensive!!Why?/..I don't understand..."."mamma look", Tia shook her hand,"shee what daddy gave Tia..",she held a big teddy bear..Geet was shocked.." Daddy??"

Part-24

"What's this? Pinky,Adi,What's happening?..Tell me the truth,NOW!!",She yelled at them.Before Pinky could come up with another lie,Adi cut in,"Geet,all these are from Maan sir & Dadi"."What???",Geet was shocked beyond belief.."They know about Tia..but how??? when?",her voice shaked.."what do they want now..oh ofcourse they would want to take their Waaris home,hai na?",she shuddered at the thought.." No Never!! I'll never let that happen...Tia is mine & mine only..Tia ,no daddy ok NO DADDY".Tia looked at her mamma.She was crying.The child hugged Geet's knees as though trying to comfort her mother..She couldn't stand her mother's sobbing so she said "Mamma..no daddy ok?". Geet smiled through her tears seeing her daughter's innocence..she hugged her child."Pinky,how did he find out about Tia?" She looked at their faces and so guilt written all over "How could you guys?You are the only family I have..I confided everything in you,and this is what I got back..you know how much I hate Maan,you know about the sleepless nights I still have fearing one day he might turn up at this door step asking for his daughter",she sobbed bitterly.

Part-25

"No Geet,You've misunderstood our intentions...we've always wanted a bright future for Tia & life long happiness for you.We believe Maan sir is the one for you.He is not as bad as you think, I do agree that what he did to you cannot be forgiven or forgotten that easily..but enough of this suffering Geet,..Take a step forward & see how your life'll change.Blame everything on fate dear,blame it on the moment..His love & desire got the better of him & he got carried away..I'v seen his pain Geet.He has been living a life full of remorse & repentance.Give him a chance to redeem dear..He was kept away from Tia & you this long..and let me tell you that's the worst punishment you can give him considering the fact that he loves you like crazy..Think about everything I told you Geet.Don't make any hasty decisions..Think about Tia also..she needs the love & care of her father..Take care dear..good night",Pinky went to her room followed by Adi.Geet was not in a state to think..she felt betrayed..cornered..she knew had to come to a decision & that decision will change her's & Tia's life forever.Geet couldn't sleep that night,so couldn't Maan.Both lay awake making important decisions about their future

Part-26

Geet signed her resignation letter & gave it to Pinky."Please yaar,give this to your boss..I cant go on like this..before he turns up here demanding his rights on Tia,I'll push off",,"but Geet, where will you go?",asked a worried Pinky." Dont worry Pinky,I'll manage..Thanks for everything..without you guys I wouldn't have survived these years", she hugged them both.Adi was carrying Tia.He couldn't imagine life without his princess.Tia being an intelligent child,could sense that something was wrong...seeing her Maasi, mausa & mamma crying,she also decided to join them. Pinky kissed hervtears away.." No darling No..go with mamma..maasi & mausa'll join you soon.no crying baby..see that car,mamma is going to take you for a drive in that"..Tia was happy.."Tia likesh daddy's car",she announced proudly...Geet pulled her inside the taxi.

Part-27

As soon as Geet left,Maan reached Pinky's house.He was determined to take Geet & Tia home along with him.Pinky saw his car & came out. "Maan sir,Geet has just left to the airport"..Without a word,he changed the gear & pressed his foot down on the accelerator..Geet spotted Maan's car coming from behind.She felt uneasy..somehow she knew that this time he wouldn't let her go...somewhere along she had stopped hating him but was not sure about her feelings and was certainly not ready to be in a relationship with him as Pinky wanted.In her eagerness to get away from Maan,she yelled at the driver to drive fast.Shocked at the sudden change in her behaviour, the distracted driver didn't see the truck coming straight towards them.Geet screamed..He steered the car to the left narrowly avoiding the head on collision..but the truck hit the back of the car..the glass window shattered.Geet ducked over Tia to save her from the glass pieces...The car hit the pavement..ran over....hit the barriers of the bridge,The driver jumped out before it broke the barriers...Geet closed her eyes & hugged Tia tight as the car left the pavement ready to fall into the river below..

Part-28

Geet opened her eyes..why was the car not moving??They were still in the car..it had not fallen off even though the front wheels were off the bridge..the back wheels were held back by pieces of the broken barrier.Geet felt an eerie silence.A crowd had gathered,but they stood helpless,fearing that one wrong move might sent the car down into the water.Tia looked around..she sensed the tension in Geet,but her mother caught her expression on time..so before Tia could start crying,she held her tight ,comforting her.

Part-29

Maan had also seen the accident,but was in two minds.A part of him wanted to ignore the accident & pursue Geet,but his humanitarian side forced him to stop & see whether the passengers were alright in that dangling car.He parted the crowd to get a better view.To his atmost horror,he saw his life inside the car."Geeeet,Tiaa",he cried out in despair.Geet turned towards that familiar voice.She saw Maan -worry written all over his face.She couldn't fathom the emotions that welled up inside her..somehow she felt that everything was gonna be alright...it should be because he was there...all her fear vanished..Maan looked at those beautiful,expressive eyes and read atmost trust in them. Tia saw him too..She became very excited..."Daddy..daddy...Tia go to daddy..", she held out her tiny arms thinking that her daddy would come and scoop her up as he normally did...Geet looked at Tia & her daddy..She never knew how close they had become.."Babaji,kabhi,kabhi main samajh nahi paati,aap mujhse kya chahte hain,,,Tia has already accepted Maan..and why am I feeling so good seeing their bonding??..why am I so happy to see him..???Why do I have so much trust in him?? Trust in the man who broke it very badly long back???but trust I had in Dev & my family also..when I told Dev about the incident, what did I expect?? I expected him to take me in his arms,tell me that nothing was wrong & comfort me..but instead he walked away without a word...and my family they treated me as though I was the culprit..who was worse..Maan,Dev Or her family???",a train of thoughts passed through her..Pinky's words kept coming back to her....Maan loves her like crazy,he was pining for her..trying to find her so that he can marry her.....can somebody love another person like this...to the extent of madness..She felt a strange emotion awakening inside her...some unknown feeling for the father of her child..but is now the time for this??Will she survive to explore more about this 'anjaana ehsaas'?

Maan blinked back the tears blocking his view.His daughter & his Geet,they needed him ..but how was he going to save them.If he try to reach them,that will upset the balance of the car..but he was sure of one thing..if that car loses it's balance,all the three will go down together....

Part-30

The car was balancing on a block of cement moving up & down like a see-saw.Maan was scared witless,but decided to take the risk..he called out "geet slowly..slowly & give Tia to me..She obeyed him..but as she turned to put Tia out through the broken window..the car shook violently..."No Geet...easy ...easy ..". Geet sat tight...The car stopped shaking.....Maan let out a sigh of relief...This time Geet was more careful...but as he scooped Tia up in his arms..the car almost lost it's balance..it swayed violently..Maan's heart stopped beating...he knew this was his last chance..he looked at the adorable woman in the car..he knew he cant live without her..without a second thought, he climbed on to the top of the car to keep it from plunging forward.."Maan, what are you doing??You'll die with me..I dont care Geet..I cant live without you..so I'll rather die with you..".She looked at him teary eyed..How can someone love her so selflessly..she felt blessed but decided to save him from receiving the same fate as her.She said'"Maan how can you be so selfish?You want our daughter to end up as an orphan??You dont care for her??"Maan looked at her ..his eyes brimming with tears.."I don't have much options here Geet..just stop[ you pak-pak & give me your hand!".."But Maan..please listen".."Chup !!!Bilkul Chup!!Give me your hand now!!".Geet extended her arms..He pulled her out & both of them rolled back to safety as the car plunged into the river..

Part-31

One year later

A party was on full swing at the Khurana mansion.Adi,Pinky ,Rajji & her husband were all there.Dadi looked at the adorable couple on the dance floor.It was Geet's birthday & Maan wanted to give the world to her,but she had a special request..she wanted him to sing for her that too in the party...Maan tried to dodge,but finally gave in..he started singing.."I'm in love"(Once upon a time in Mumbai)..Geet danced with her dashing husband...happy & proud..She was pregnant again..& tonight after the party,she was going to tell Maan..When he finished singing,she hugged him tight to show her love & appreciation. He looked at her his eyes full of love..They felt two little arms hugging them & looked down..Tia wanted to join them.Maan laughed,scooped up Tia.He threw her in the air & caught her..she squealed in delight & planted a big kiss on her daddy's cheeks.Daadi looked at them ,her eyes brimming with tears..her Maan had found his sangini...his complete happiness!!!

Entry #15 - Echoes of Paradise

Movie: Mission Kashmir

"Maan?" her lips quivered. The whisper resounded through her stunned being. It had been so long since she had heard herself call somebody by that name.

He gave her a half-smile, a ghost of a smile laced with the nostalgia of the times gone by, of all those years that had been stolen from them.

"Maan," Geet repeated, as she hugged him tightly. She let go to look at him, as though to make sure that it really was him. And then she hugged him again, laughing and crying at the same time. She would never let him disappear again.

This time, he slowly placed his hand on her back.

"Geet," he breathed, closing his eyes serenely. The feel of her frail, sweet-smelling frame against his thumping chest, the soft tickling tingle of her hair on the side of his neck, the warmth of her face resting on his shoulder, seemed to revive in him that erstwhile feeling of harmony he was no longer worthy of.

But the moment was short-lived after all. The memory of what had separated them would never cease to haunt him. Even now, as he stood immersed in her warm embrace, the unsurmountable distances between them sneered at him. He withdrew his hand painfully but the sensation of her white georgette dupatta on the palm of his hand did not leave him.

She stepped back and wiped her tears hurriedly.

"You've changed so much," she said, back to her bubbly, chirpy self, "You have a stubble, and oh my God, muscles and all! Aaye haaye, ek dum dhak dhak. Hatta katta nau jawaan, Maan Singh Khurana! And what happened to that lanky kid who would always be by the lake, sketching. Hey, remember, you used to call me such weird names, Bakbak, Basanti, Geet Express, and God knows what else! Now, look at you, angry young man in a black leather jacket. Style-whyle and everything!"

He gazed at her. She had not changed at all. Her scintillating light brown eyes still widened when she spoke. She still had that innocent, glowing smile that seemed to light up everything around her. And she still spoke in those sweet hiccups, like she used to, and as much as she used to, and just as animatedly, her hands swinging around her expressively, and dangerously. And everything was right, and beautiful, and perfect. Because Geet was still Geet.

"I'm not letting you speak, am I?" she laughed.

"As usual," he said, trying to smile, "And I used to call you All India Radio also. You forgot."

She gaped at him, and pouted, pretending to be offended, but the subsequent gurgling giggle gave it away.

"You're still the same," she said happily, "Same old DD. Remember, that used to be my name for you? Dumbo Duffer! Oh and Daler Dil, when you would be terrified of dogs... and Dusht Daanav, when you would push me into the lake or pull at my plaits or play some stupid prank on me."

He let out a non-committal sound, as though in agreement.

"Come, I'll show you my office," she said, dragging him with her.

Maan looked at the hand holding his, and tried, in vain, to reconcile the conflicting feelings tearing at each other within his heart.

The happiness he felt on meeting her was more than he could ever express. All those letters he had written to her spoke back to him. He remembered all those letters he had not had the courage to send, out of fear that they should remain unanswered, out of fear that he should learn that his Geet too was dead. After seeing his entire family get blown apart in that absurdly brief haze of deafening gunshots, it had seemed only natural to expect more numbing pain from life. But she was alive after all.

And yet how could he allow himself to be swept away by the tide of joy overflowing in his heart. Now that he had met her, every moment he spent with her made him realise even more poignantly just how much he had changed since they had last met, and he was consumed by sadness, and anger.

It was as if time had stood still for her. As for him, everything had changed. He had changed. The Maan who once sketched by the lake had been dragged onto a battlefield, a battlefield that had become a part of him, leaving him, nothing but an echo of his past self, hollow and without substance. After ten years, he was back home, and yet everything looked so unfamiliar.

"Maaaaaaaan," somebody said loudly in his ear. It could only be Geet.

He shook himself out of the quagmire of his thoughts and listened as she told him how she had been offered the job at the TV station. She had impressed them with her talking, as he could surmise, and summarise.

Her looped earrings were dancing, in rhyme with her lively eyes. Her innocent face reminded him of the Dal lake in May, when lotuses bloomed over the dimpled waters. She was so pure, so heavenly, so out of place in a world of hatred and hypocrisy. Suddenly, he was overcome by an excruciating desire to pull her towards him, to enfold her in his arms, and for eternal eternities, to jealously guard her against the darkness she knew not of. He would fight the world for her. He would give her everything. He would lose everything for her. He would lose himself in her. He would die for her. He wanted to die. Then and there, with her radiant face gracing his eyes.

"Maan, are you even listening to me?" Geet laughed, waving her hand before him, "Okay, so tell me, we're meeting after ten years. Didn't you get me a gift?"

Maan dismissed his fevered thoughts with difficulty.

"Yes, of course," he lied, "Close your eyes."

He looked around for something to give her, and was about to place her own stapler in her outstretched hand when he froze. Time, darting past them, came to a standstill too, and sighed along with him. Who would think that she would look so beautiful even with her petal-like eyelids shielding those eyes away?

He felt drawn towards her by that mysterious, irresistible, burning force that seemed to emanate from her. It made him want to run his hand along her arm, her shoulder, the side of her slender neck, her ear. He wanted to let her hair loose and allow his hand to melt in its enticing fragrance. He wanted to brush his face against the dried up tear tracks on her cheeks, so that her tears became his. He wanted to bring his lips closer to hers and feel their breaths sing to each other.

"Oye, what happened?" she asked, arching her eyebrows, "Are you making the gift or what?"

He looked away, befuddled by the insane workings of his dazed mind, and his eyes fell on the framed photographs on the walls of her office. Pictures of him and Geet when they were kids, playing by the Dal lake. He looked at the boy in the blue kurta smiling at him curiously. He saw in the boy's eyes, those forbidden dreams of flying to the moon; of stealing colours from the blossoms to immortalise them in painting; of paradise; of simple joys and small pleasures. He shook his head at that boy who had naively thought himself free, and who now lived enslaved to the darkness within him.

"I lost it," Maan said, placing the stapler back on the office table.

She opened her eyes and looked at him, exasperated.

"Eh le! Hadh hoti hai. Roz subah badaam khaaya karo, Maan. Tumhaari yaadash kamzor hoti jaa rahi hai, buddhe kahin ke. Chalo anyway, tell me, what was it?"

"Everything."

The word hung in the air, long after it had been let out, its echo weighing down on them, weighing them down with it. It was then that Geet realised. She saw it now. She saw him now. His last word word rang like thunder, rumbled over her senses, shattering something in her that she could not recognise. Was it hope, faith? There was something she had lost. Maan?

"Where were you?" she asked, her voice breaking, "My parents and Brij veerji looked for you everywhere. Everyone thought you... thought something had happened. But I knew you would come back. I just... knew. "

He tried to pretend that the despair flowing out of her eyes and dripping off her trembling chin did not affect him. At least she could cry, let it out. At least she did not have to bear the agony of silent screams imprisoned within his every breath. She should never have to bear such pain, he decided. She did not know what he had become. She should never have to know. He would protect her, from himself.

"I was adopted by a police officer," he said, emotionless, "and he got transferred to Assam shortly afterwards. There was no time to say goodbye."

The memories of that night came back. That masked person who shot at his family. All the blood, the smoke, the shrieks. The falling bodies, dropping so meaninglessly to the glistening red wet ground. He remembered how he had found out, a few years ago, that the person who had filled his life with the fires of hell, was the same man who had adopted him. His so-called father was the usurper of all the happiness he had been entitled to.

Geet's breaths frosted over her pained heart, as she saw the intense agitation setting his eyes ablaze as his entire frame began to shudder uncontrollably.

"But now you're here," she said, smiling gently as she took his hand.

He breathed deeply and smiled back, but she could see that the smile did not reach his eyes.

"And you're not going anywhere," she said, more of a plea than a statement.

She had finally found Maan. And yet that very Maan was lost, somewhere. The man before her looked like Maan. But there was something in his eyes that seemed to have wandered away to a forgotten place, to have been engulfed within the deep dark recesses of his own being. That something that felt like life.

Maan didn't say anything. He could not allow himself to come close to her. His world would destroy her, just like it had destroyed the Maan she once knew. He could not go away from her though, not as yet. Yes, he would leave. But he first needed her to gain access to the TV station. He hated himself for deceiving her, but he could do nothing else. Nothing else mattered anymore. Mission Kashmir was his life. Revenge was all he knew; the only way he could attain the solace he sought.

Or was it? When he looked at her sometimes, he felt like dreaming again. He thought of him and Geet, together, on a shikara, floating over sunset-coloured ripples. When he looked at her, he seemed to forget everything. Everything else ceased to matter. She was like the sun, shining into his eyes, blinding him to all else. But somehow, he did not mind. Somehow he felt that if he had her, he needed nothing else.

What on earth was happening to him? No, it could not be. He could not possibly be falling for Geet. He would have to control himself. He had a battle to fight, and win. He had no right over those moments of tenderness with Geet. Those moments, those dreams, that life had belonged to another Maan. He was not Maan, he was a mere echo.

And the persons responsible for it, would pay.

If anything, Geet's resolve was strengthened by the emptiness she saw in his eyes. She would fill those eyes again, with the beauty that surrounded him, the beauty that he had ceased to appreciate. She would make him the painter that he was. She would find Maan and bring him back to where he belonged. Paradise.

Entry #16 – Perfect Girl

Movie: Kuch Kuch Hota Hai

Geet was furious at the demand of Maan Khurana's choice of girls. He wanted short hair, short skirts and high heels. Geet was in her room pacing back and forth with the same thought in her mind for over an hour. How to get her snob of a boss a perfect girl? Well perfect in his sense anyways. Pondering at what his lists of criteria for a girl was Geet was suddenly interrupted by a piercing noise in which she instinctively covered her ears. She muttered a few swear words under her breath and stomped her way downstairs.

"You broke the lamp again?" Geet asked not exactly wanting an answer when she saw a broken lamp from the balcony. She hurriedly ran down the stairs and picked up the little pieces one by one.

"Not my fault", Maan defended himself while raising his hair in midair as he was about to surrender. Geet didn't reply back. She simply threw the glass pieces in the green dumpster aside the coffee table and aimed for the door to go back to her room to start thinking again.

"Geet wait."

She turned around with a fake smile on her face. She raised her left eye brow as a queue for him to go on. Maan looked in different directions put his hands in his pocket then he looked at Geet's facial expression and flinched a little.

"Why are you so cranky"?

Geet's expression went from mad to an unusual surprise. Was he actually asking her this?

"I'm trying to think here, for you, and you're distracting me Maan", Geet said sharply rolling her eyes.

"Geet aunty I need your help", a sweet voice called out from the door that Geet was facing against. She turned around quickly and the frown on her face turned upside down in to a small smile. The little girl ran and stood beside Geet with the biggest grin on her face.

"What's the matter Sameera?" Geet questioned as she bent down till she was just the height of her. She had a basket ball on her hand and Geet figured out where this might be going. When she came back up she saw a smirk on Maan's face. She knew where that was going as well.

"If you wanted any help with basket ball then why didn't you ask me for help?" Maan said dribbling the ball and doing few tricks with it. "You know I am the best player in this house Sameera", Maan finished gazing right into Geet's chocolate eyes. He had the ball on his feet but he lost balance as though Geet's eyes had a power to snatch the earth right beneath him.

"Mhmm says the guy who can't win a single match without cheating", Geet picked up the ball making sure the word got to him. She knew whenever she mentioned cheating to him it seemed like he was going to make a mountain out of molehill. "Before you say anything, you know I'm right and there's no better way to settle this than a sweet old match".

Looking at Maan's face he seemed to be agreeing to this. Geet once again turned to Sameera and this time she saw a different look appearing on her face, almost a victorious one.

"You know what? Let's make this a bit interesting", Maan announced. He understood Sameera's plan and winked at her with a mischievous smile plastered across his face. "If I win this you have to do anything I say. It'll be only 1 thing but you HAVE to do it. And if you win it's the vice versa", Maan proclaimed with the perfect plan in his mind or that's what Geet was thinking he might be doing. She knew this was not the best idea but if she went with this and if she won she might finally get out of this house.

"Fine it's a deal", Geet sighed then made her way up the stairs where she began her thinking again. Now she had 2 problems. First, she had to find a girl for Maan and second she had to win the match. Geet hadn't finished one job and now she was burdened with another and this one seemed worse than the first one. If he actually did win she had no idea what was going on in his head and it could be absolutely anything. Maybe he'll say jump in a pool with all your clothes on. Geet nodded her head and thought that was too immature even for Maan. Just like that Geet had received thousands of thoughts in a matter of minutes. She hated how her brain worked, she had come up with so many things but they were all so lame and stupid. She shook the whole thing off and glanced over at the folder in which had the pictures of girls of possible Maan's future fianc.

Next morning when Geet woke up Maan and Sameera were already packing things on the van to go to the park. She almost forgot about what they had discussed yesterday and let out a big yawn.

"Aren't you going to get ready? Dad said you got scared and didn't wake up early", Sameera called out from the porch to Geet who had been yawning like there was no tomorrow.

"Give me 10 minutes", Geet showed her 10 fingers in mid air and ran back to her room. After taking a quick shower she changed her night dress to a track suit. She braided her hair just like she always did and put on a pair of sneakers and caught up with Maan and Sameera.

"Can we go now or are you guys changing your mind?" Geet asked opening the shotgun side of the door of the van. Maan and Sameera got in nodding their head in disbelief. Maan reversed the car and let out the engine and drove off. The ride was a quiet one so Geet had time to work on her 'strategies' on how to beat Maan at this. She turned to her left to see him and to her surprise he was humming the lyrics of the song playing in the car.

They were finally at the park and when Geet got off the van yet another surprise was waiting for her. There were about 20 people surrounded the court with soft murmurs in each lips. She thought it was only going to the three of them, her Maan and Sameera but apparently she was wrong. She gave a sharp look to Maan and Maan threw an innocent look back at her, even though Geet knew he had everything to do with this.

They both got to the court and stood in the middle looking into each others eyes. Maan got the same feeling as he had before and quickly snapped out.

"So, who ever gets to 10 first wins and the punishment will be decided by the opponents", Sameera read out the rules as she was the actual referee and gave the ball to Adi.

"Okay. So ready?" Adi asked as he threw the ball up in the air and Maan and Geet both stretched out to reach for it. Maan slapped the ball in his direction and dribbled across the field. Geet let out a heavy sigh and ran for the ball. It had been too late for her since he had already shot a basket by the time she got to him.

There was only 5 minutes left to the game and it wasn't looking very pretty for Geet. She saw him dribbling towards the hoop and she thought of making her move. She ran to Maan in a swift speed and jumped on him. Within a few seconds Maan was on the floor and Geet took the ball out of his hands and dribbled her way to her side of the basketball court.

"Cheating", Maan spat as he got up. His knees were a bit scraped but he barely noticed because he was too concentrated on Geet cheating her way to win. She threw the ball and made the shot. She turned around and stuck her tongue out.

"I won", Geet yelled from where she was standing.

"That was cheating", Maan said again.

"Geet you lose because we all saw you were cheating", Adi favored Maan.

Geet huffed in anger. Now it was going to be bad. She didn't know what Maan was going to say to punish her for her loss. She closed her eyes tightly fearing for the worst.

Geet opened her eyes to find Maan holding her wrist and dragging her to the parking lot. When they got there Geet let go of her hands slowly and folded her hands.

"Just tell me what I have to do", Geet said quickly regretting by actually agreeing to this in the first place.

Maan inched closer to Geet, his eyes glued on hers.

"I want you to..", Maan breathed, his each words coming out slower than the previous one. Maan had placed Geet near the van and with every second his step was moving closer and closer and within a few seconds Geet was stuck, leaned on the van with nowhere to move.

"What?" Geet questioned not exactly looking at Maan.

"I want you to leave the house", Maan confessed.

Those 7 words caught Geet by surprise. She was dumbfounded and not even a single thought was in her mind. What was he saying? That was going to be her way of getting out of the house. Geet looked at Maan. Her brown chocolate marbles fixed on his. She wasn't thinking anything or saying anything, and neither was Maan.

Without his own permission Maan leaned in towards her lips. Geet saw where this was going and instead of backing away she leaned in as well. Their lips touched and Geet's stomach filled with butterflies. Its was a gentle, lingering touch of the lips, a hesitation on both parts as they touched, as if both were taking the time to memorize the feeling before they part. Maan moved up his hands from Geet's arms to her bare skin towards her neck. Geet's eyes did not open, her whole body, heart and soul was not letting go of the feeling of that kiss.

"Geet, I want you to leave my house", Maan repeated his words. Now his lips had parted from hers and were moving its way up to her forehead. Both of their eyes were now closed.

"No", Geet whispered under her breath. Why was he still telling her to get out of the house? Wasn't it obvious she didn't want to leave? Geet thought as she remembered the kiss again. She was desperately wanting for more.

"I want you to leave Geet", Maan continuously said the same words.

Geet did not fight for it. She simply embraced Maan, muttering the three words he was waiting for since the day he met him.

"I love you".

Maan replied to her by hugging her tighter making her feel like she was the only girl in the world.