Part 23
Before she could say another word their names were called out and he forcefully held her hand and walked her out of the room onto the stage as she looked on in disgust at his action, but he ignored her and further annoyed her by placing his arm around her waist which was now the limit. She stopped in mid step and removed his hand, he looked over at her while he carried on walking, they began to squabble on the stage and as he was not looking in the direction he was walking he missed a step and tried to grab onto Anika but with a sudden force pushed her and she wobbled on her heel making her loose balance and felt herself falling from the stage.
Her heart thumped furiously against her chest as she closed her eyes while she fell down and down letting out a cry of help...
She felt her body go lifeless for a moment but the pain did not reach her, she slowly opened her eyes expecting to see a white ceiling but instead she looked up to the blue sky. She turned her head to a side to see Shivaay's face smiling down at her, she realized that she was lying in his arms out stretched arms but with no intention of moving she stared lovingly into his eyes which was full of concern and care but he wore a sweet smile knowing that she was safe and out of harm.
A moment later they were disturbed by a loud shriek which jerked them both out of this dream scene and Shivaay helped her to stand up before they looked around to notice a huddle of people around the other side of the stage. Anika looked at Shivaay then they both rushed over to see what was going on, at the same time Robin moved the other group members out of the way making space and they noticed Ranveer lying on the floor with his leg in an awkward position. Annie immediately called for help on her mobile while Ranveer lay on the floor swearing loudly as he was in immense pain.
Ranveer: What the **...will someone get me a doctor...why is everyone standing around...ooww!
Anika looked around as everyone whispered in small groups, a moment later she felt someone at her side and turned to see Ishana standing there with a mischievous grin, she pulled a very confused looking Anika away from the scene.
Anika: What's up?
Ishana: Serves him right...
Anika: You mean... - in shock - ...you did this?
Ishana: Hey...! - appalled at the accusation being laid on her but smiled and nodded - ...I'm not the only one...where's my partner in crime... - looking over Anika's shoulder and making her turn
Anika: What? - confused - ...Who's in this with you?
Ishana: - pointing to Shivaay - ...Your boyfriend... - laughing sneakily as Anika looked on in shock - ...we heard you guys talking before you went out on the stage...Shivaay was speaking to him but they ended up fighting...and I had to break it up... - looking at the shock on Anika's face - ...then after I had done my practice with my partner I found Shivaay and asked him to help me out...
Anika: And he was up for it?
Ishana: Not at first...but I made him understand how much Ranveer was annoying you...and I told him all about what happened at the camp fire party just so he doesn't get any ideas from what Ranveer was saying to him so he was ready...when you guys were squabbling on the stage I sneaked a wooden stick onto the stage and he wasn't looking in the direction...he buckled and tried to hold onto you...but you feel into Shivaay's arms and he fell off the stage... - grinning evilly
Anika: Oh my god...I don't believe this... - grinning
Ishana: Now look on the bright side...you won't have to model with him...and if it's that bad he won't be able to even model on the night... - giggling
??: And what are you two girls laughing at...is there something funny... - a deep voice
Anika and Ishana stopped laughing and looked at each other in shock, slowing turning around to see who it was both scared for a moment until they turned to see Shivaay standing there laughing at them. Anika smacked him on the arm and he hugged her back. They had a good laugh and then went back to see Ranveer being carried away on a stretcher into an ambulance and the others carried on with their practice, finishing just before it got dark. They then had dinner together and Shivaay left to have an early night as he had a long day and the next day would be the same.
*
The big day was finally here, the main event, The Fashion Show Competition. Wherever Anika looked everyone seemed to be very excited and also very busy; in the workshop the machines were being worked away as many people were adding their final touches and ironing their outfits all talking about one thing. She walked out of the workshop and stood their admiring the place, it all looked very beautiful as she noticed the small details beginning in the lounge where the guests would be arriving, just outside the lounge there were jungle themed footprints on the pebbled stones leading through to the garden area which was decorated with tiny fairy lights which were not turned on as yet but she could imagine how it would look at night.
She smiled as she saw the footprints had now changed from the jungle theme to sand footprints relating to the sea life theme, it carried on through the garden towards the outdoor pool area which was also decorated beautifully with sea life props such as underwater coral reef which was placed in the pool meaning that it was out of use for the club members for the day. Once again she imagined how the place would look at night with the pool lights on creating an unimaginative atmosphere.
Anika walked further around the pool following the sand footprints down to the open area to see that the stage was now fully set up. She admired it from a distance; the back drop of the stage was white with glitter which would glisten as the lights hit it in the night sky, the side curtains were also white with light pink drapes, there were tiny fairy lights along the side of the stage and of course millions of spot lights facing down on the stage which were being tested by the team. She walked further down to the site to see round table being set out around the catwalk ramp and a line of tables just in front of the ramp for the judge panel. At the right side of the site a group of people were decorating a large office style board with pictures and Anika made her way towards it to see her designs as well as other group members designs being displayed, she was shocked that Shivaay had really decided to use her idea and smiled.
Everything just seemed perfect as she walked around the site watching the team working hard, she moved around to backstage where she noticed a lot more work being done; twenty five boxed cubicles were made for the participants to get dressed and at the far end there was a small gathering room just before they began the show. She carried on looking around at the place until she noticed Shivaay rushing around; he held a clip board in his hand and was talking into the head piece, Anika moved closer to him to hear what he was saying but he did not notice her.
Shivaay: ...Right...the stage is almost completed...I've carried out two checks...but I want the water effect to be checked once more...yes and re run the sound check...the lighting will need to be checked the moment it gets dark just before the guests arrive...
He stopped talking for a moment as a young girl came to him with another clip board and went through the details.
Girl: Sir the backstage rooms are all set, lights and mirrors have been fitted in...when you get a moment you can come and double check...
Shivaay: Good...I'll be there just as I check finish checking out the gallery...
Anika smiled as the girl left and got back to her work and Shivaay rushed over to the gallery area where the final piece of work was being put up.
Shivaay: This looks great...well done guys...right, now I want you four to go have your break and be back in half an hour to help out with the seating arrangements...
Anika left the site and came back five minutes later; she found Shivaay and asked him to come with her.
Shivaay: Anika...I'm a bit busy right now...
Anika: - cutting him off - ...Mujhe kuch nahi sunna...come with me... - she took his hand and dragged him to the side where there was an empty table and sat him down
Shivaay: But Anika...there's still a lot to do...
Anika: - taking off his head set - ...Maine kaha na...I don't want to hear anything...chup chap yahan beato aur yeh kah lo... - handing him a sandwich that she had brought for him
Shivaay's frustrated expression broke into a smile as he saw this cute gesture of hers. He ate up silently looking over at the site as everyone rushed around doing what they had to, once he had finished he was up and ready to go again but before leaving he walked over to Anika and kissed her forehead whispering a very sweet thank you then got back to work.
Anika left the site and decided to finally use the available facilities of the club as she made her way to the SPA where she met some of the other girls from the group who were surprised to see her there; they enjoyed a good pampering for a few hours then decided that it was time to make their way down to the site with their belongings and get ready as the countdown for the show had begun.
Anika rushed to her room to have a quick shower then gathering all her belongings which she had kept at the side of her cupboard she made her way down through the lounge, following the footsteps through the garden and around the pool down towards the site. All the unnecessary items where moved out of the way and the place was now looking as if it was ready for a show, the round tables were decorated with white table cloths and a beautiful floral decoration and floating candles, lanterns were hung around the area and she just couldn't wait to see this place in action. Anika made her way around the stage; she caught a glimpse of Shivaay triple checking all the areas before she headed to her backstage cubicle.
Anika began with her makeup which took quite a long time as she worked on each and every detail till perfection. She then straightened her hair and curled a few strands which she had experimented on a few days earlier then finally moved onto her outfit which she got dressed into quickly and dolled herself up with a simple golden colored jewelry; a necklace with a peacock feather, matching earrings and matching accessories. She carefully changed into her heels and gave herself a final look over in the mirror before walking out of the cubicle and making her way to the meeting room.
As she walked out of the cubicle she suddenly felt extremely nervous as she looked at people rushing around and from the sound of it she realized that the guests had begun to arrive. She walked carefully in her heels to the meeting room where she met some of the participants who were also excited and nervous at the same time. She stood in the corner silently as her mind started to wander.
Anika: I can't believe this...it is actually happening...after months of waiting...weeks of preparing...the time has finally come...but I'm so nervous I'm not able to enjoy myself...what if I mess up...if something goes wrong and...I can't... - she was disturbed as she felt a hand on her shoulder which made her turn
Shivaay: Nervous as usual... - with his dimpled smile, she nodded slowly and he held her hand gently - ...close your eyes... - Anika did as she was told and he moved closer to whisper in her ear - ...feel it Anika...your dream is finally coming true...not everyone is as lucky as you...but you've been given this opportunity above thousands of people to be here tonight...to show everyone your talent...win or no win Anika you made it till this far and you deserve every happiness...so enjoy it...enjoy it to the max...because you're a very lucky person...and I'm very happy that you're mine...all the best jaan... - kissing her cheek making her open her eyes
Anika: I love you Shivaay... - Shivaay mouthed "I love you too - ...All the best to you too...this is a big night for you also... - they hugged for a moment
Moving away from each other with smiles on their faces they now realized that the room was quite packed and everyone was called to attention in the middle but before anyone could say anything Shivaay cleared his throat ready to give an announcement.
Shivaay: - to Robin - ...Sorry...this will just take a moment...
Robin: Go ahead...
Shivaay: Well everyone...this is your big night and I want to say a little something before I have to head out there to make sure everything is perfect for you guys...firstly you ALL are look AMAZING...and secondly I wish you ALL the very best of luck for tonight...you guys deserve the best because you all are winners...
They all applaud as he came to the end of his speech and just as he was about to leave Robin stopped him.
Robin: Thanks Mr. Oberoi...for stealing my speech... - everyone laughed - ...you've said it all...I've got nothing left to say...
Shivaay: Sorry... - with his cute dimpled smile; then left the room
Robin: - smiling he turned back to the group - ...Okay then everyone...the time has finally come...the reason why we have been here for the past three weeks...you've all worked very hard during your time here...and without even knowing the result...just by looking at all of you I only have one thing to say...you all are winners in my eyes...so Congratulations for making it this far...
Everyone applauded and cheered each other for a few moments then settled down again waiting to hear Annie's speech.
Annie: And now I have nothing to say because Mr. Oberoi and Robin have said it all... - smiling while everyone grinned then she carried on - ...but yes...you all are winners today...you are all looking like winners and with all the preparation you have put in over the past three weeks for this one night has already made you all winners...so all I want to say is...go out there...enjoy yourself and give it all you have...because this is your moment...all the best...
They cheered until a few moments later when there was a knock on the door which made them all turn.
Sunny: The host is about to begin the show...you're on in five minutes...good luck...
Robin and Annie shuffled them all out of the small meeting room and they lined up in their order waiting for the cue. Anika stood second in line ready for the big moment; she closed her eyes as she heard the host open the show and silently prayed that everything goes well. A few minutes later it was time to go out and face the audience; Ishana who was the first was applauded loudly as she walked onto the stage and modeled her outfit. The stage was decorated with green leafy back ground from a projector and jungle themed props were placed around the stage to set the effect along with the jungle theme sounds.
Anika braced herself taking a deep breath then walked out onto stage as she saw Ishana make an exit from the opposite side, the crowd erupted with another loud applause as Anika made her way down the ramp in her metallic blue halter neck blouse which was decorated with fine gold embroidery and a matching fitted skirt which was loose from the knee downwards, the back of the skirt had a trail of peacock feathers which related to the wildlife theme which would definitely earn her points from the judges, she paraded along the ramp while the lights flashed from all directions as she turned and walked back up the ramp and off of the stage.
As she came down from back stage she was met by a member of the Khushi Event team who showed her to a small room which was set up for a photography session before the participants got changed into another outfit, she quickly posed for a few shots then made her way to her cubicle as other participants and members of the Khushi Event team congratulated her. She got into her cubicle and quickly took off her outfit and wrapped her robe around her then there was a sudden knock on the door, she answered it to see it was a beautician who had been running late but was now there to help. Anika showed her the outfit and pointed out the matching eye shadow color she wanted and she quickly got to work. Within fifteen minutes Anika's makeup was set and her hair was done nicely, the beautician left and she quickly slipped into her dress and exchanged her jewelry for a turquoise crystal necklace and matching earrings, then she put on her second pair of heels and made her way back to the meeting room where she met Ishana.
Anika: You were great on the ramp... - giving her a side hug
Ishana: Thanks...sorry I couldn't wait to see you...but you looked amazing...and this outfit looks gorgeous...
Anika: Thanks...you're looking great too...
Ishana: I must say...your boyfriend and his team has put together an amazing event...this is like hundred times better than a celebrity show...it's really, really beautiful...
Piya: I completely agree...when I came down here this afternoon I was blown away...because I was too busy in the workshop this week I hadn't seen anything go up...and to see it like this...it's just too cool...
Anika: I know...even I was amazed when I came down this afternoon even though I've been here all week...
The room was now crowded again as they all waited around; at the moment there was a stand up comedy act for one of the intervals while the participants prepared themselves for the second round. Once again Sunny knocked on the door reminding them that they will be going on in five minutes; they all made their way towards backstage getting in line while the Khushi Events team were rushing around exchanging the props getting the stage ready. Anika stood first in line and peered through the curtain to see the comedian walk around the ramp as he brought his act to a close and the audience applauded as he left the stage.
The curtains were drawn open and the host reappeared on the stage talking to the audience about the theme of the second round then suddenly the sound came on and he left the stage set for the first participant. Anika took a deep breath and walked out onto the stage and stood in the center modelling her outfit, it was a long aqua color silk gown which flowed nicely behind her water like, the top of the gown was made like a corset which hugged her figure beautifully and she had added a beaded shell strap over her shoulder to hold the dress up. The outfit itself was breath taking but as she stood in center stage with the water effect backdrop and the coral reef props on either side she looked like a gorgeous mermaid and the crowd hooted as she began walking down the ramp showing off her outfit. She made her way back up the ramp and off of the stage making her way to the photography room before heading to her cubicle to get dressed for the final round.
Anika was working away on her make up when there was a sudden knock on the door, ignoring it she carried on as she just wanted to concentrate and not mess up but once again there was a knock and she frowned thinking it was the beautician again.
Anika: - without opening the door - ...It's okay...I don't need any help...
But this time she saw the door handle turn and she looked around in shock to see who it was; Shivaay stepped into the room and made his way towards her.
Anika: Shivaay? What are you doing here?
Shivaay: Sorry to disturb you...actually I had a minute to spare so I thought I'd come and see you... - looking down at her in her pink robe with a frown - ...you're not modelling in that for the final round are you? - seriously
Anika: - annoyed - Don't be stupid Shivaay... - making a face and turning back to the mirror but he hugged her from the back
Shivaay: I'm just messing...actually... - looking at their reflection in the mirror - ...I just came to tell you how gorgeous you were looking out there...I couldn't help but stop what I was doing while you were up on that ramp...
Anika: - looking down shyly - ...Thanks...
Shivaay: You're my girl...and I'm so proud of you...for all of your hard work...your confidence...your creativity...your beauty...and your innocence... - looking closely at her
Anika: Shivaay... - slowly not knowing what to say to that
Shivaay: You don't need to say anything...your eyes already say a lot... - turning her around to face him - ...I love you...
Anika: I love you too Shivaay...
Suddenly they both moved apart as they heard a loud cheer come from the audience, Shivaay decided it was time to get back to work as it was the second interval and there was suppose to be a singing performance by a band and Anika realized that she didn't have much time left.
Shivaay: I'll be back to see you in a while just before you go on stage... - kissing her forehead
He left the cubicle and Anika quickly got back to work putting on her eye makeup carefully then moving onto her hair style and finally onto her outfit which would need a lot of time and patience to fit just right. Half an hour later she was finally ready, she was looking into the mirror giving herself a final look over when suddenly the cubicle door open, she turned in anger to see who it was when she saw Shivaay standing there with his mouth hanging open. He slowly made his way to her with his mouth still slightly open as he stared at her in shock making her smile at his cuteness.
Anika: You can close your mouth... - putting her finger under his chin to shut his mouth
Shivaay: Anika... - unable to say anything else but coming to his senses
Anika: How do I look? - uncertain
Shivaay: Do you need to ask after this reaction?
Anika: Please...batao na...
Shivaay: There's just one thing missing...
Anika: Kya?
Shivaay moved his head forward and slowly planted a gently kiss on her lips which made her smile widen as she became shy.
Shivaay: Your beautiful smile was missing...now you're all set...
Anika: Thanks Shivaay...
Shivaay: Any time...ab chalo...you're on soon...
Anika was about to walk towards the door slowly in her heels when Shivaay held onto her hand making her stop and turn back with questioning eyes.
Shivaay: All the best...I hope you win...
Anika: Thanks...
Anika walked out of the cubicle while Shivaay stood there watching her go making a silent pray for her, then he got back to work as Anika stood at the end of the line as she was about to go on last. Half of the participants had already modeled and were in the photography room while they others waited impatiently to walk the ramp for the last and hear the names of the winners. They all stood in the line, Anika at the end waiting patiently, the second last person had now walked off from the other side and once again Anika took a deep breath before walking out onto the stage giving everyone an unexpected but pleasant shock.
Anika stood center stage with a blue back drop, cloud props on either side of her and gentle music played in the back ground. The crowd cheered as she stood angel like in a magnificent white sari, her blouse was fully decorated with hand embroidery of sequins and silver thread with sequins straps which glittered as the lights fell on her. The skirt was plain white but the border of her pallu was fully embroidered by hand again with sequins and silver thread, she wore a simple silver pendent with matching earrings and her hair was styled neatly. She looked nothing less than an angel from heaven as she walked the ramp as the audience applauded and cheered loudly for her as she made her way back onto the stage and off to backstage. She made her way to the photography room for a quick photo shoot.
She met up with some of the group members who had just had their photos taken and they were talking excitedly as the complimented each other.
Piya: I don't believe this Anika...
Anika: What?
Piya: You were so secretive with this outfit you never even showed us your designs...and it's just so...AMAZING!
Ishana: You really are looking very hot... - winking at her - ...you carry off a sari very nicely...
Anika: This is the very first time I've worn a sari...
Ishana: Are you serious?
Anika: Yeah...it took me ages to put on...I was scared if I was even doing it the right way...
Rachel: You must have because you are looking gorgeous...
Anika: Thanks guys...
They all walked out of the photography room and made their way back stage to see the dance performance that was going on while the judges decided on the winners. They cheered on the group silently from backstage while the audience fully enjoyed the performance.
Michael: Wow they are really...really great...I'd love to go out there and join them...
Rachel: Why don't you?
Michael: I wish...
Anika: They are quite good...
Ishana: I'd like for them to hurry up...
Piya: Me too...I can't wait any longer...
Rachel: What do you guys think...who'll take the first award?
Anika: I don't know...everyone's outfits where perfect...to me there's no competition...
Ishana: I agree...it's going to be very difficult for the judges to choose...
Michael: You know what... - looking over at the girls seriously - ...I think it's a shame what happened to Ranveer at the last minute...I mean...he had worked really hard and the way he broke his leg...I don't even understand how it happened...
Piya: Even I don't understand how it happened but he was beginning to get a bit irritating...he was always annoyed and frustrated...
Rachel: Yeah and his attitude changed a lot coming to this last week...he was being very weird...and he was really rude when he fell from the stage...
Anika and Ishana shared a silent look but stayed out of the conversation while the other three carried on trying to figure out what had happened.
Michael: Whatever it was I feel for the poor guy...he couldn't even take part in the show...
Rachel: Well...what's done is done...now's the time to see the main result...
Ishana: I'm so excited...
Piya: Me too...
They all looked onto the stage as the dancers bowed and walked off from the other end and the host reappeared onto the stage.
Anika: I'm so nervous...
Shivaay: - putting his arm around her shoulder - ...I knew you would say that...that's why I came to see how you're doing...not chattering yet are you? - teasing
Anika: Shivaay... - annoyed
Ishana: What?
Shivaay: Her teeth chatters when she becomes nervous... - they all laughed as she moved away from him but he held onto her - ...anyways I'm here to wish all of you the very best...may the best man...or lady... - correcting himself - ...win
Michael: Thanks...
Piya/Rachel: Thanks Shivaay...
They all turned to the stage as the host invited on stage the judge panel and Annie and Robin. All the participants stood around nervously waiting for the names to be called out.
Host: Well ladies and gentlemen...we have come to the end of the show...and it's now time for the results...but before we call out the names of the winners of the show I would like to hand over to the two team leaders who have worked very hard along with our twenty five participants for the past three weeks... - turning to Robin and Annie - ...over to you...
Robin: Good evening ladies and gentlemen...I'd just like to say a few words about the twenty five participants of this competition...they've come together from all over the country for this one purpose...each of them carrying their own dreams...they've made it here tonight not as individuals but they stand as one family and I'm very happy to know that we... - referring to Annie - ...are part of their family...they've worked extremely hard during these three weeks and they deserve a big round of applause for making this show a huge success... - the audience applauded while Robin turned to backstage towards them - ...well done guys...
They all looked around at each other and smiled gathering in a group hug as they had finally realized how close they had become during this small amount of time.
Annie: - taking over from Robin - ...Truly well done to all of them...because making it this far makes them all winners... - once again the audience applauded and cheered before she carried on - ...and we would like to award them all for their individual characteristics...
Robin began to call out names of group members rewarding them each with mini awards for their individual personalities, extremely hard working, fun loving, team leader, most organised (which went to Anika), comedian, entertainer etc.
Once everyone had received their mini awards the host then spoke a little about the judge panel before he handed over to them to announce the winners of the show. Each of the group members held hands as they shared their nervousness, their hearts thumping in rhythm as they waited impatiently for the names to be called out. Shivaay looked down at Anika and gave her hand an encouraging squeeze reassuring her through his eyes...
Judge: And the winner...of the Wild Life Theme is...
Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon
