~*FF-NOT just a passionate affair THD 2 ~*PART 31 Pg 127-UD 21st Apr! - Page 2

OSR PART 28

The first pangs of love feel

As delightful as the first rays of the sun peeping out of those little blue clouds

As cute as purple butterflies hovering over the first flowers of spring

As adorable as the morning dew drops trickling off those glossy green leaves

Pause, right there!

These 'common' lines on first pangs of love couldn't be more off the mark if it was the story of Jodha Singh and Jalal Muhammed that was being described. The newfound love of this interesting couple that'd just kick-started, was something else altogether!

Now, THEIR first pangs of love felt more like

The liberating sensation felt when jumping off a cliff with nothing but a parachute on one's back

The exhilarating tingle felt during a splash of cold water on a scorching summer's noon

The breathtaking awe felt when diving down into the deep ocean

Simply put, Jalal and Jodha ENJOYED the invigorating feeling of being 'in love'.

Actually, almost everyone else at college loved this handsome pair for being 'in love' too. If nothing else; this filmy hate-to-love tale between an enticingly fiery junior and an adored popular senior provided enough fodder to keep the gossip mills at SRI running!

Everywhere the latest buzz seemed to be about them 'Did they?' 'Didn't they?' 'Would they?' 'Wouldn't they?'

Canteen lunch hours turned out to be the worst for the famous couple - they constantly found themselves at the focus of attention thanks to their group's relentless tease-fests.

However inspite of all that group fun, it was their meetings after college that both seemed to relish the most - and why not!

After all, their personal relationship was about being passionate without the need for jealousy to spur it on. They preferred arguing over theorems and economic policies rather than girlfriend-boyfriend insecurities! Their vibrant conversations were all about artful flirting while still remaining graceful throughout. Most importantly, their dates were all about having a wild time without losing their sensibilities while doing so.

For instance; on one evening they'd set out to make elaborate dinner plans and landed at a posh restaurant. Yet when there, they'd ordered nothing but three courses of dessert - since they weren't in the mood for anything else on the menu!

On another day, they'd just casually walked out of a not-very-interesting movie barely thirty minutes after it'd started

'But, you've paid for the movie tickets Jalal...waste of money, na' she'd said

'As it is I've wasted my money Jo...better not waste my time too' he'd winked

He'd opened her eyes to a wider horizon in life! He'd gently nudged the girl to come out of her shell and feel like a woman. He'd changed the formal smiles on her face into lively giggles. He'd shown her that it was all right to enjoy life - that it was all right to stop being Ms Goody Goody every now and again - that it wasn't wrong to break rules once in a while and be a little mischievous just for the sake of.

She'd begun realizing how much she'd missed out in life by choosing not to fall in love for so long. Nevertheless, it'd meant to happen when the right guy came along and who could be closer to Mr.Right for her than Jalal?

Similarly, she'd subtly broadened his priorities in life too! She'd somehow made him admit that 'Ganne ka juice' and 'Nimboo paani' could be better alternatives to 'beer' - at least, occasionally! A couple of Hindi melodies had magically made their way into his otherwise all-English playlist - and he was even managing to appreciate them. She'd shown him how malls needn't be the only fun date venues around - that Amal old age home was just as lively too.

One such 'different' date he'd experienced - in fact, one he'd organized himself, thanks to her - was for an occasion that was very important to him.

It fell on a day about a month after it'd all started...

14th March

THE MUHAMMED BUNGALOW - ON THE PORCH

'Koi tho kholo yaar' he mused under his breath, while waiting on the steps outside the ornate wooden door of his bungalow - what a day to have forgotten to take the house keys along?

'Its ok Jalal...' she smiled reassuringly 'You'd said Ammi's not at home na...so maybe Shantamma's busy...she'll come...'

'Yeah right' he thought to himself. He really did not need any more misadventures for then! As it is, he'd had to shell most of his grand schemes for the day - what little he'd planned better not go any more pear-shaped than it already had!

'No gifts...no birthday bash...no fancy restaurants...and nothing too far away, since I have to get home on time to celebrate the rest of the eve with my family' had been the 'few' conditions she'd put forth when he'd set about making plans. Nope, she hadn't left him with very many options!

Nevertheless, he HAD managed to think up something and pleasantly surprised her on this special day that was her 23rd birthday!

'Hey' she muttered, slipping her hand around her boyfriend's elbow 'I enjoyed the whole tour...'

Balancing the cake box in one hand, he cast her a glance. It was obvious from the dreamy twinkle in her eyes that she was still revelling in 'The tour'. That the picnic he'd planned thereafter had to be abandoned - what with the park having turned out to be a mosquito paradise - hadn't disappointed her in the least. Nor was she bothered that the specially-ordered cake hadn't been cut yet - the suffocating traffic on the way back meant he couldn't take a detour to any other picnic spot.

'You know Jalal' she continued - aware of what was running on his mind 'I've visited the Golconda Fort before...but, today was undoubtedly special... walking through the stone structures with my hand in yours...glimpsing at the majestic monument... and then at sunset...catching a view of the entire city of Hyderbad from the top while standing beside you...it was magical...'

Her words worked like a charm and he found himself uplifted in no time. With a boyish wink, he put his arm around her shoulder 'Well, WHATEVER makes Ms Singh happy...makes this fella happy too!'

Nodding her head in playful approval, she then made a note of the time on her watch. It was getting late and she needed to get going in the next twenty minutes - at the latest!

Following another round of bell-ringing from both, Jodha stepped back and folded her arms - waiting for someone to attend to the door. As she resumed her casual chatter with Jalal during the subsequent wait, a round-ish pebble on the ground caught her attention. Unbeknown to her, she commenced toying it with her feet sometime thereafter. Shuffling the pebble to and fro, she'd even mentally set herself an aim - that is, to score a goal between two flower pots, a short distance away.

Soon enough, Jodha was kicking the stone about with increased vigour - not realizing when her focus had steadily shifted away from the conversation. After all, the new pastime she'd just discovered was an excellent way to while time.

Having been watching her actions with delight so long, Jalal eventually decided to butt into the game - the lure of a pretend football match with his beloved was too tempting!

'Stop it Jalal' she hit his arm, when he'd managed to tackle the stone away from her thereon 'That's cheating...it was my game'

'But, that's no way to play it...' he teased her - knowing it'd only annoy her more 'Shall I show you how its done...'

'No thanks...' Jodha nearly nudged him away - she needed no 'expert' advice right then 'MY pebble...MY game...MY rules...so, I'll play it whichever way I want...'

'Don't push me...' the amused senior mocked, perceiving how competitive she was getting 'Cake gir jaayegaa'

The short scuffle that ensued between the two was adorably sporty - featuring irked frowns from the losing junior and victorious smirks from the winning senior. Thankfully, the compound walls of Bungalow number 23 were tall enough to shield them from the street or they'd have had an audience by then.

A few minutes later, Jalal was about to take advantage of the game during a momentary lull, but Jodha had had enough. Since the skilled athlete had an unfair advantage over her, she'd decided that she had every right to do something drastic to win too. In a flash, the unwitting man found himself startled by some hilarious sensations - his ribs were being tickled by her fingers as she fought her way through. By the time Jalal could overcome the underhanded tactics - she'd swiftly grabbed the opportunity, kicked the stone and scored a goal.

'Ouch' she winced a second later and then, 'Yayyy' she shouted aloud. Yeah, she'd bruised her leg a bit, but what was more important was that she'd won!

'Oy that's a foul...' he chuckled at her cute victory dance, while taking support of the pillar to balance himself

'Whatever...but I still won...'

'Jodha' he suddenly grimaced with concern - he'd noticed the blood oozing from her toe 'You've hurt yourself'

'Yeah...yeah...' she dismissed his woes 'Sandals and salwar are not the ideal 'football' dress code...I know!'

Just then, their banter was interrupted when the entrance door finally opened. An excited Robbie immediately strutted out to greet his friends - a pleasant middle-aged lady followed suit. Catching sight of the maid who'd finally made her entry, the much-relieved Jalal bowed down to her - like one would to royalty 'Oh! Dhanya ho Shantamma...dhanya ho...we've only been waiting here for 15 minutes, you know!'

Abashed by her overlook and even more so by his theatrics, the lady scratched her head sheepishly 'Sorry...sorry ayya...Madam is out...Balaji has gone to the shops...and I was in the bathroom...'

'Jalal' Jodha gently prodded him - biting her lip so she didn't end up giggling at the funny scene between master and maid 'Come on...I WANT to cut the cake NOW...'

He turned to her with an I'm-not-amused look 'Let's tend to your foot first...'

'No let's tend to my cake first...' she covered her forehead, pretending to be exhausted 'I'm STARVING after having played such a gruelling game...'

'W...what...' he broke out into a chuckle, entertained by her cute tantrum 'Fine...fine'

THE MUHAMMED BUNGALOW - THE STUDY

'Hmmm' she mumbled in quiet ecstasy - licking the last bits of chocolate cream from her fingers while watching the video of her quiet birthday party that he'd just recorded on his mobile. Swishing around on the large office armchair, she continued admiring the lovely scenes in the clipping - Jalal, Shantamma and Robbie looked so adorable cheering her ceremony in their own sweet ways!

'Hey' he came up from behind - gently stopping the spinning chair so he could lean over her shoulder. Observing the video along with her for a few seconds, he indicated to Jodha's picture 'Doesn't she look beautiful?'

'Uh huh!' she mumbled

She didn't have to glance his way for him to discern the hot flush that'd just crept on her cheeks 'Happy Birthday Jodha!' he sung into her ears

Tickled by his warm breath, she swung the recliner around to face him - making an attempt to divert her boyfriend from the mischievous intentions running in his mind 'Do you know...its nearly a month now?'

'I know' he nodded - well aware of her games. Nevertheless, he slipped the mobile off her hand so they could go back to their first set of texts and relive it together

Once he'd come across the smses, he showed her the screen and started flicking message-after-message

'Yup Jalal! That's why I hate it when I turn out to b WRONG ... and u turn out to b RIGHT!

'Now, got ur answer? Have a safe and peaceful trip!'

'How was the flight'

'Hope u r having a gd time in Mum...how did ur meeting go?'

'Miss u too...btw, my frnds are driving me mad with questions...'

'Whn r u arriving?'

'Early? How early do u want me to be at clg tomorrow morn?'

'Baap re!' Jodha exclaimed as she went through her initial formal-ish texts 'I can't believe I was so bholi till a month back...' she knitted her brows 'And now YOU...you've totally corrupted my innocent mind'

'And I love myself for it' he finished with a devilish smirk. Persevering with their young fun, Jalal leaned over the armrests of her recliner and moved closer - staring at her hazel eyes

Observing his dashing features that was hovering just above hers, she admitted in a low tone 'You know, I can't believe you've still saved ALL my texts!'

'Why?'

'Cos I've deleted all of yours...'

'What?' he studied her expression wondering if she was pulling his leg. When he recognized that she wasn't, the senior was mildly taken aback by the candid confession 'Why so?'

'Well...' she went on to play with his collar 'I realized I''m taking things very coolly Jalal...our phonecalls, our dates, I've been returning home later than usual...Bhaiyya has started growing suspicious... so, its better I delete the texts and emails in case he checks...' she paused 'Remember our plans? We have to lay low till I finish my MBA...'

'Yup' he sighed understandingly

'Anyway, I know them all by-heart' she disclosed with confidence 'At least the special ones'

'Like?'

'Fine' she shot off - repeating what she could from memory 'The first one was...'

'Good morning my love, how are you...looking forward to the start of a new day, start of a new phase and start of a new us''

'Mumbai is Mumbai...the same as always...but, I'm definitely different now'

'Can't wait to get back...look you in the eye and hear you say something I'm waiting to hear...'

'Wow!' he raised his eyebrow in awe, while she pursued 'And oh yeah...one of my favourites'

'Hey Jo...I saw something and it reminded me of what I feel right now...

If only I could freeze the time when I am WITH you...and fastforward the time that I'm NOT'

'Ok...ok I get the jist' Jalal blushed mildly - he WAS impressed.

After a few frozen seconds of a sensual silence between the pair, he exhaled deeply and forced himself to come away from her hypnotizing presence 'It has been long enough...let's get your cut treated first...septic ho jaayega'

Sitting up on her armchair at once, she brushed his worries off 'Jalal...chintaa mat karo theek ho jayega...' she made a quick attempt to divert his attention from the cut on her feet 'By the way, why don't you teach me how to record a video in your mobile...' fiddling around with the phone in her hand, she identified the icons 'Oh...I think I found the settings'

While Jodha leaned forth to place the phone on his desk and pressed 'record', Jalal viewed her reactions warily - before going ahead to do what needed to be done anyway.

Grabbing the first aid box off the table, he kneeled down to took a look at the wound and picked her feet up. However, just as he was about to commence cleaning the wound - Jodha curled her toes back at once 'Jalal chodo please...' she paused uncomfortably 'Fine...I'll do it myself...'

He looked up at her with a sceptical frown 'Jo...you have a boyfriend now...why don't you take advantage of him once in a while?'

She giggled 'Trust me, I have NOOO issues taking advantage of you...but...'

'But?' he pressed on inquisitively 'What's it?'

'Just that I'm really...really...really ticklish...'

Ahaa - so that was what it was! She was ticklish! A mild smile escaping his lips, he reverted his attention to the injury.

While he calmly went about dressing the wound, she had to invest all of her energy to control herself from squirming every which way - so he could be done with it as soon as possible.

'Phew' she breathed a massive sigh of relief once he'd plastered the bandage upon it - that is, till she'd caught the 'new' expressions on his face when he'd glanced back up!

'W...what?' she stuttered in growing alarm. Why had his smiles just turned into deviant grins? 'N...no' she gasped as she quickly realized what he was up to - he was planning to seek revenge for what she'd done to him during their football match! So, his mind had been formulating this devious plan, while blissfully unaware SHE had been having her foot treated!

'You better not get any weird ideas Jalal, I tell you...' she warned him with a funny glare - planning her escape strategy as she did so 'Jalal...stop...'

Hastily blocking her route of escape, Jalal gazed at her with the most mischievous look he'd ever given her yet!

Taking note of how he was gliding closer and closer, she tried playfully pushing him away 'N...no...Jaalllaaal...you better not...n...o'

However; before long, he'd overcome her defences and gently arrested her wrists within his palm to begin the tickle-a-thon

'S...stop' she laughed

'Arre...yaar' she laughed a bit more 'This is all getting recorded...first, let's stop the video'

'N...nooo...Jalllaaal' she laughed a lot more

'Koi sun lega Jalal' she laughed uncontrollably 'Basss ab...'

Anyhow, all protests had fallen on deaf ears and it was a good three minutes, before he decided to let go.

With their laughter finally showing signs of abating, the breathless pair slumped back on the backrest in respite. Squashed together on that grand armchair, they caught up on their breath for a short while - facing one another all along.

As the two of them lay still, continuing to survey the other - their amused stares gently turned into more mellow gazes

'Thank you' she whispered softly 'For making my 23rd birthday so memorable...'

'Don't worry' he winked 'I'll make your 43rd birthday just as lovely too'

'And my 63rd?' she gushed

'Yeah...' he sighed jovially 'As long as you'll be able to hop around a fort so briskly then!'

While she sniggered in response, he observed her - sensing the sparks of mutual attraction simmering between them. After a brief spell of calm, he began caressing the contours of her face with his fingers. Tracing the borders of her temple, his fingertips smoothly skid down to her cheek and then her chin. Reading the subsequent emotions in her eyes, Jalal took her by surprise a moment later. For the first time, he'd gradually let his fingers run over the outline of her lips - longing to know how it'd feel if his met hers.

Tingled by the suddenly unfamiliar sensations his gesture gave rise to, Jodha found her lips going numb. Overcome by an unforeseen rush of nervousness, she subconsciously flinched away - a bit - and that was when she caught sight of the silent guest who'd been monitoring them so long

'Jalal' she called out to snap him out of his trance, indicating towards the door with a chuckle 'Dekho tho...we're being watched'

Curious, he turned around and came to face with their unexpected visitor. The observant pet had just resumed wagging his tail - wondering if he could be a part of the strange games his master was up to too!

'Robbie' Jalal broke out into a bout of abashed grins 'When did you get here, yaar?'

**************************************************************************************

THE UNIVERSITY - JODHA'S CLASSROOM

It was nearing the end of a long day. The class was abuzz with a full attendance. Word had gone around that Prof Ram Charan was to be late for his lecture. With circumstances being so, one could imagine the ambience of a classroom - it was NOISY!

Various groups of friends had very many things to catch up on and HER group was no different either!

In the first ten minutes, they'd covered more mundane discussions like the upcoming 1st semester exams, make-up tips and family issues. Obviously, the more 'important' topics were yet to follow.

'Girls...' Payal sighed, setting her phone down once she'd finished replying to her last sms 'Maan's just sent us a reminder...Holi party at his place on 17th at 5pm...bhoolna mat!'

'Sure...'

'Yup'

'By the way' a worried Meera abruptly recalled something she'd been meaning to enquire 'Jodha, I forgot to ask...you didn't hear from the anonymous texter on your birthday, right?'

'No...' she revealed with mild relief, a few seconds later

'Thank God...' Payal commented in a low tone - lest someone overheard them. She paused hesitantly 'I tell you, I still think it's Shareef doing this...'

'Well...' Jodha remained unconvinced 'He spiked my drink, but I'm not sure he's the texter yaar...I mean...I doubt he'd send me such a stupid message just two days after being expelled!' she cast a sly glance at the guy seated on the last bench 'For a while, I suspected Anoop...but...'

'Nahin' Meera argued 'Anoop ek lallu hai.. he can't do this...the whole college knows about the spiking thing so it could be anyone yaar...'

'But, remember...' Jodha interrupted - on a very grim note 'This guy knew about Jalal and I getting together even BEFORE the rest of the college did!'

'Yeah!' Payal exclaimed in near-horror 'I'm certain he's following you around...'

'Or maybe its someone from OUR OWN group who's keeping tabs on everything happening in my life' Jodha thought silently - but then, she couldn't get herself to say it aloud. How could she? How could she tell her own friends that she had started suspecting one amongst their own? How could she admit that she was growing increasingly cautious of one of Jalal's friends themselves? That lately, ONE particular face popped up quite often whenever she wondered about the texter's identity!

Since she knew Maan for long and since Salim seemed too committed to his long-term girlfriend - that left her with only one option

'Abdul'

No doubt, the chap always came across like the darling-of-the-group. No doubt he's Jalal's best buddy of 15 years - but, what if he harboured some dark secrets too? Anyway, these were faint suspicions and loose theories that she couldn't share with anyone - not with her group - and ESPECIALLY not with Jalal. At least, not until she had some form of proof to back her doubts!

'Anyhow, Jodha' Meera spoke up - detecting how her friend suddenly looked so lost 'Stay safe... you're still not planning to tell your family about this?'

'Pagal ho?' Jodha smirked 'The last text had such disgusting things to say about Jalal...there's no way I can show that to my parents yaar...besides, he has spoken to his uncle and he should get back to us with the address of the owner sometime soon...'

Instantly noting how the very mention of 'Jalal' brought about a soft twinkle in her eyes, Meera decided to move on to the other 'important' topic they were yet to broach. As it is, the texter-discussions had depressed their temperaments - the fresh theme should lighten everyone's spirits again

'Jodha' Meera cleared her voice - with renewed vigour 'Ye sab chod...you still haven't told us what HE got you yesterday...'

'Oh yesss' Payal's mood perked-up 'Now THIS is more like it! Tell us...come on...come on'

'Well...' breaking out into a faint blush, the hesitant young lady took a short while to speak up - evidently, Meera's change-of-topic had elevated her frame of mind in no time 'He took me to Golconda fort... then we went to his place...and I...' perceiving how their excited smiles had swiftly morphed into confused frowns, she stopped

'W...what?' Payal looked at Meera to ensure she wasn't the only one reacting so and then turned back to face Jodha 'Are you serious?'

'I can't believe it' Meera winced 'A sightseeing tour was your gift?'

'Hey' Jodha tried explaining 'Because...I...'

'Shyea...' Payal remarked - not letting the girl elaborate 'And I'd expected the guy to be more generous...'

'Arre' Jodha made another attempt to justify, but she was cut short again

'Same here Payal...' Meera nodded 'I expected better too...silver Audi mein ghoomta hai...and he wraps up his girlfriend's birthday saste mein!'

****************

OSR PART 29

'Silver Audi mein ghoomta hai...and he wraps up his girlfriend's birthday saste mein!'

'What?' Jodha raised a brow in near-disbelief. By this point, she'd understood what her pals were up to - they were ridiculing Jalal to get a reaction out of her!

'No bouquet...' Payal scoffed

'No jewellery...no gifts...' Meera scoffed 'Kyaa yaar...even WE got you a beautiful perfume...'

'Very funny' Jodha scoffed them back

'No grand dinner'

'No parties...no nothing'

'Basss now both of you!' she finally interrupted - albeit, with restraint. Yeah yeah, she knew she was falling for their girlish ploys but it was getting a bit unpleasant to hear them speak of him that way 'I was the one who refused the gifts and grand dinners ...Jalal was so disappointed when I told him that...'

'Don't defend him...' Meera taunted - carefully hiding her smiles that'd emerged at the sight of the now 'riled-up' Jodha

'Well...' Jodha dismissed their ongoing mind-games 'You guys know Jalal...he would have splashed out on something very costly and then I'll have to do the explaining at home! Besides, I'm not a big fan of showy gifts... I love our history, so he planned for a tour around the fortress...I'd asked him to gift me memories and he did JUST that!' her voice had such pride by the end of that revelation

'Memories...like?' Meera asked, unable to mask her delight anymore - the cute annoyance on Jodha's face while hearing ill of Jalal, was such a stark contrast to the Jodha who despised the very guy five months ago!

'Memories like...your first kiss, maybe?' Payal helped her out

'W...what' Jodha became wide-eyed, turning five shades pinker within the span of a second 'You girls are mental...'

'Ahaaa!' Payal had noted how hastily Jodha had jumped to her defense on that one 'Yess... I knew it ... kuch tho hua hai...'

'Nahi yaar' an embarrassed Jodha laughed off their guesswork 'Stop cooking up such scenarios...you know me na...'

'Actually Jodha' Meera winked 'I can't claim to KNOW you any more...you're NOT the same Jodha you were once ...tum tho chupa rustam banti jaa rahi ho...' watching her best pal's confused frowns in response to that frank comment of hers, Meera was quick to explain 'Hey...yaar...I meant that in a good way...you seem so 'normal' now...we LOVE it... we also love pulling your leg about it...'

'Yeah, we're sadistic that way...' Payal hi-fived Meera 'The best part is where we catch you slyly flirting with Jalal and then you mask it...or at least, you think you do...'

'God, you both!' Jodha exclaimed - the two devils-in-the-guise-of-friends were having a field day at her expense. Unable to hide the extent of her abashment any longer, she fretted aloud 'And I didn't even realize how obvious I've been making it all...silly me...'

'No pagal...' the girls giggled at her adorable expressions 'We both spot these little changes only cos we're your best mates...'

'It's not like you think...you both are absolutely charming when together...'

'Besides... you acting a bit girly around that amazing guy of yours, only makes you look more human!'

'Hmmm' she mused. They had a point - why feel embarrassed about the 'new and modified' Jodha? What was wrong in acting a bit unlike her usual self - the changes were just a normal by-product of falling in love!

'Right...' she joined them, a second later - this time with a spirited wink herself 'Nothing wrong...in being a bit of a tease, is there?'

'Nope!' the friends shook their heads in sync 'NOTHING wrong...'

'By the way' Meera spoke up soon after - bringing up the only remaining 'important' topic that was yet to be discussed 'Since we're talking of flirting with boyfriends, Jo... I see you've bought yourself some lovely new heels...'

'Any chance Jalal likes heels?'

'Oh!' so, the expected question had ultimately popped up. She cast a quick glimpse at the sleek brown pair on her feet and then back up at them. Just as she was about to retort with the usual resounding NO, Jodha thought better of it and gave up any futile attempt of denial 'Yeah yeah...Jalal likes them...' she admitted with a faint blush 'But wait' she interrupted their premature celebrations 'I have been meaning to try out this style myself too... to see what the fuss was all about!'

'Fine...fine...we get the point...'

'So, what did he say when he saw them?'

She grinned, with an air of confidence 'I'm sure he'll like them when he gets to see them...he hasn't seen them yet...' she paused 'Today, I have to rush home to help bhabhi with Holi preparations...I'll surprise him on Monday...at the Holi party...'

'Monday?' 'Surprise him now na...'

'NOW? Arre he's in a lecture now...' just then, she noticed their indications towards the mobile nestled in her hand. The hints got her thinking. Wondering if she should follow up on the seeds of mischief they'd planted in her mind, she bit her lip playfully 'Kuch masti ho jaaye?'

'Go on' Meera's eyes widened

'Of course yaar...'

Wasting no further time; Jodha modelled her pretty feet elegantly, flaunting her new heels - and then took a snap of it in her mobile. Spurred on by her excited troupe, she typed in a message - before she sending the photo to the intended recipient

'Bought these y'day after I got home...since I wont be meeting u after classes today, sending u the pic now...how do they look?'

'God you girls' she chuckled uneasily once it'd been sent 'You're making me do the weirdest things...'

No sooner than another round of hi-fives had gone round amongst the chirpy group, she received a message alert on her phone. It was from him! She opened it eagerly

'Wow! Are those shoes sexy or what...n Jo, why r u being such a tease when u know I'm in a lecture and cant do anything bout it now...

Ab tum dekhna...I'll get back 4 this at Holi ;)'

Meera and Payal broke out into a bout of boisterous laughs

'You're done for Jodha...'

'Kitnaa sataati ho usse...tch tch'

'ME?' she glared at the naughty duo 'It's all cos of YOU both...'

Allowing the girls to have their brief moment of revelry, Jodha reread the message with a quiet sigh once again - a sportive grin creeping up on her lips by the end of it 'Get back for this at Holi, haan? Dekhte hain Jalal...dekhthe hain'

*********************************************************************************

March 17th

MAAN'S APARTMENT COMPLEX - THE TERRACE

'Wow!' she exclaimed, soon after she'd stepped off the elevator landing and into the terrace. What a sight the merry scenes playing out in front were. The bustling society in this posh apartment complex at Somajiguda definitely knew how to celebrate Holi - and in style! The grand arrangements set up under the shamiana in the expansive area, had plenty to cater to everyone's tastes. The variety of food on offer was endless, the dj-mixed songs being blasted on the speakers were incredible and most importantly - there was plenty of colour going around for everyone to splash about. No wonder HIS group preferred to hang out at this address during Holi every year!

'Hiii... come on in...' she heard a familiar voice calling out to her from the sea of faces

Surveying the place for a few seconds, she spotted him approaching her thereafter 'Hey Abdul' she greeted him back. She could barely recognize him - what with layers of multihued powder having coated his face

'You're late Jo...'

'Had to finish celebrating Holi with my family at home...' by the time she'd ended that sentence her eyes were already looking for the one she'd been eagerly waiting to meet.

'Hi Jodha...'

'Hi yaar...come in...'

'Hiii'

'Welcome Jo'

'Wow guys...' she smiled at the rest of the group who'd swiftly joined them on noticing her arrival. What a mess they were - a delightful mess of colours, of course! 'You all look wonderful!' she smiled

'Yup! We've been having fun...' Maan nodded - and then he noted how her glances had reverted to making visual scans of other corners in the large terrace 'What are you searching for...' he enquired not-so-innocently

'Oh...' she laughed awkwardly 'Nothing...I...' she paused 'I mean...hasn't Jalal come?'

'Jalal kyun?' Abdul questioned 'We're all here na...'

'Yup' Salim joined in 'We assumed you'd come here to enjoy with us...'

'Are we not enough anymore?' Meera went all droopy-eyed

'Kyaa yaar...' Payal added 'I'm positively hurt now...'

'Kyaa?' Jodha shook her head in amusement - giving them all a 'Not again' look

'What kya?' Maan prodded her 'Jalal ko chodo...come on now...come with us...we'll have fun...he'll get here later...''

'I know...chalo...' Abdul pursued with their jesting by taking her hand and starting to lead her along.

However, as the young man did that - something struck her as unusual. Stopping in her tracks, she steadily wriggled her wrist out of his clasp. Puzzled by the resistance, he turned to face her thereon

'I'll walk by myself, Abdul' she explained softly

'Oh...ok...' Abdul acknowledged a moment later - perplexed if she'd mistaken his intentions since he'd meant no wrong.

Falling silent; Meera, Salim, Payal and Maan darted each other 'What's happening' stares. The odd exchange between Abdul and Jodha had only been a short one - yet, it was conspicuous enough to dampen the group's festivity for a few seconds.

Realizing the mild discomfort that'd made its way into the fun ambience - what with her reservations coming to play - Jodha broke out into a formal smile to make up for it 'I... I... mean... I...'

'Yeah yeah Jodha...' Abdul spoke up, in a hasty attempt to make it easier for her. The friendly chap was not one to let one second of unpleasantness ruin an otherwise good eve 'We know...we know... you're restless to meet Jalal, right?' turning around, he pointed to a far corner in the terrace - indicating to a distant lone figure amidst the crowds 'Can you see that guy sulking over there...standing close to the parapet wall.. the only one who hasn't played Holi yet...he's been waiting for you...so, go on!'

'Thanks guys' she nodded cordially 'And sorry...I'll make it up to you all' she muttered under her breath. She had her own reasons for having acted funny then, but she couldn't help feeling bad for having come across like a spoilsport there!

***************************

'Yayyy...' she nearly sprung up from behind - taking him by surprise 'Buraa na maano Holi hai'

'Arre...' he spun around - his cheeks now splattered with generous layers of red and yellow 'Hi Jodha...you're later than I thought you'd be...'

'Tch tch... ' she taunted his sober tone 'Mr. Romeo why mope here all alone... you should have played with the rest na...I told you I'll be late...now come onnn' she leapt forth once more and subjected him to a fresh bout of colour-smearing 'Let the games begin...'

'Arre basss... ho gaya na...'

'What basss?' she overrode his protests 'Worried that your Armani shirt is going to be all ruined?'

'Jo...' he tried defending himself from the affectionate deluge of colour being hurled at his shirt, but to no avail

'I'm not letting you get off lightly' she cackled 'I know you well enough... stop acting so seedha ...'

'Ok... enough...' he requested his enthused girlfriend a minute later, gently holding her hand down since she'd showed no signs of stopping 'Enough now...please...'

This time, she got the message.

Observing the unease in his eyes, Jodha questioned him sceptically 'What's wrong Jalal? I've come all the way to enjoy my first Holi with you and you're...' she stopped. Still harbouring the slightest doubt that he might be putting on a show just to make a fool out of her, she waited for a brief spell - cautiously studying his expressions throughout. However, by the end of that spell she could see it - something genuinely was troubling him 'What's going on Jalal? Kuch problem hai?'

'Oh...nothing...' he smiled faintly 'By the way, DCP uncle called up this morning... they've traced the address of the number...the anonymous texter...'

'Oh my God!' she swore as the reality hit her. No wonder he seemed so preoccupied!

'A...and!' her voice barely emerged thereafter. True, the news was to come out one day - but it was still just as unnerving when the time arrived. With him not replying for the subsequent few seconds, Jodha grew increasingly impatient 'And...tell me more...'

Exhaling deeply, Jalal leaned against the parapet wall 'The address belongs to some S.Sharma from Meerut...'

'What! Meerut?' did she hear right?

'Yup... Meerut...Uttar Pradesh!'

Jodha covered her mouth - she couldn't believe it. She didn't know whether to feel disheartened, angry, shocked or confused! Somehow, she'd always hoped that her stalker was someone she knew - maybe because a 'known' evil was better than an 'unknown' evil! With this disclosure, they were back to square one 'Urgggh'

'Maybe it's a false address or name?' she wondered aloud

He shrugged - the stress caused by the setback clearly evident on his face too 'Apparently, the sim card shop confirmed from their records that the person provided a ration card as proof of identity...so, I don't know...' his frowns became deeper 'Uncle put in a word... so, a local constable went to check...it seems that place has been empty for years... any further investigation can only be done if you file a complaint Jo...'

'Hey Bhagwan' she kneaded her temple in frustration 'Anyone from our group has family in Meerut?' the desperate junior was clinging at straws here. She looked up a second later, for his answer - and THAT was when she realized what she'd just mumbled

'From our group?' the alarmed senior remarked, still coming to terms with what he'd just heard 'Don't tell me you're suspecting someone from OUR group!'

Sighing in part-guilt for having sprung this upon him with no warning whatsoever, she made an earnest plea 'Don't mistake me Jalal...but I was only making guesses...' she fumbled for the right words to justify her hunches 'I...I mean this person seems to know too many things about you...about me...about us!'

He shook his head in shock - he couldn't perceive what'd just come over his girl 'Knows too many things about ME, Jodha?' he quizzed 'What are you saying? He's been MALIGNING me...and you're...'

'Ok...ok...ok' she put her palm up with an apologetic frown 'Sorry Jalal...that came out wrongly...' she started playing with her glass bangles agitatedly 'I.. I meant to say he knows everything about 'us'...'

'Firstly...' Jalal interrupted her 'NONE of our friends are Sharmas! Secondly, NONE are from UP! Salim is a Hyderabadi...besides, he's madly in love with Sana...I've known Abdul for 15 years...he doesn't have family outside Hyderabad either...I'm not sure about Meera, but isn't she from Mumbai?'

Jodha nodded mildly - her displeased boyfriend was obviously NOT in accordance with her loose theories on 'their group'. While she chose to remain quiet for the moment, he continued with conviction 'Renu's from Bangalore...Maan's from Jaipur ...and he's your family friend...Payal's from Delhi...I mean...what's making you suspect any of them?'

'I...I...' she closed her eyes and then turned away. She didn't want to say anything else for then - actually, she didn't HAVE anything else to say for then.

With her frustrations plain for him to see, his approach softened in an instant. Taking a step closer, the young man then went on to take her hand in his 'Hey...'

Casting his gesture a spontaneous glance, she subsequently looked ahead again - it was the first moment of tenderness they'd shared ever since she'd arrived. Used to being spoilt rotten by his unwavering attention, this aloof Jalal somehow bothered her. Nevertheless, she slipped her palm away - what with it being a public place and all.

Pausing for a moment, he turned his silent companion around by her shoulders - so she'd face him now

'Jalal' she gently objected to the proximity, casting a wary glance around them to make sure people - especially, Maan's parents - weren't watching

'I'm sorry...I didn't mean to come off strongly...' he resumed on a mellow note, not too bothered by their busy surroundings 'Please look at it this way Jo...we can't go about doubting our friends, unless we're EXTREMELY sure...' he paused 'Kal...if I learnt that Salim, Maan or Abdul suspected ME of sending their girlfriends lewd texts... it'd take me a very very long time to forgive them for it...' a tender frown emerged on his face 'Friendship is based on trust, and once trust is gone there's not much of friendship left...'

Having heard him out so long, Jodha studied his expressions closely for some time. She couldn't deny that he had a point. She'd never thought of it his way - maybe because she wasn't yet as closely affiliated to his friends as he was himself.

'No... you're right' she murmured soon after 'I'm sorry if my words hurt you...'

'Don't be silly...' he nudged her chin up 'Jo, I understand this is running in your mind forever...I agree it makes sense to be extra cautious... I also understand that you don't know these guys as well as I do, but I think you are getting a bit carried away with this latest theory...and its not advisable to do that without any concrete proof ' observing her shifting expressions, he continued warmly 'Nevertheless, I'm mighty glad you told me what's on your mind instead of letting it fester and boil inside you... at least we can work through this together...' following a short pause, he folded his arms with confidence 'And as for this creep Sharma...why don't we request the Dean...we could maybe access our college records to...'

'To see if the name and address matches with any of our batch mates...' she completed the sentence for him.

The mild smile that'd started reappearing on her face just turned into something more spirited. She was touched by his sensibilities - impressed by how he'd handled the delicate 'friends' issue. What she'd feared would turn out to be a bone of contention between them, had been settled by him on a more positive note. How lucky was she to have landed herself someone so thoughtful!

'You know Jalal' she spoke up once the discussion had reached its end 'It's a pity we're meeting HERE today... in this party' she indicated towards the crowds 'Warnaa...'

'Warnaa...' he asked, mystified by her words and the fresh lop-sided grins. Then, he read the mischief in her eyes 'Warna?' he raised his brow inquisitively

She giggled, letting her glances convey her sweet sentiments 'If it was somewhere quieter... I'd have given you a long long hug just for being who you are...'

'Wow!' his eyes widened in surprise when he decoded the message 'Really?'

She nodded playfully 'Yes' - and he broke out into his first hearty chuckle of the day

Catching him truly enjoying himself at that instance, it dawned upon her that the real Jalal had finally returned to her - the one who'd gone amiss for so long

'Wow' she surmised aloud, a moment later 'We meet after two days and its taken you so long to smile... by the way, you haven't even spotted by new heels yet...' she darted him a sceptical stare 'The texter issue wouldn't be troubling you to this extent...what is it you're not telling me about?'

Whatever little joy had appeared on his face disappeared as soon as she posed him that question. Looking down, he let out a deep sigh and then back up at her - his expressions now beginning to indicate hints of guilt and pain

'So, there IS something...'

'Yeah'

While she waited - with bated breath - for him to come out with whatever the matter was, he took a good few minutes to muster his will. Turning away from her and towards the parapet wall, Jalal obliviously stared at the darkening skies in front

'Its Robbie...' he finally admitted 'I found out this morning... he has cancer...'

'Huh?' she gasped in shock - wondering if she'd actually heard him right 'Cancer?'

'Yeah...' he confirmed, the hush manner with which he did so only portraying the profound misery he was bottling inside 'I didn't want to tell you all and end up spoiling the festive mood today...'

'Nooo!' a scream went off in her head as it sunk in - this news was too horrifying - even to her! She couldn't even begin to imagine what he must be going through. Unable to find the right words to say, Jodha stuttered worriedly 'B...but Jalal...how did this...I mean...'

'He has been acting a bit strange lately... he was in a lot of pain yesterday, so I took him to the vet...' he voice started cracking 'They've given him two weeks at the max...'

'Two weeks?' she swallowed hard to overcome the lump in her throat. Stepping close to him, she called out empathetically 'Jalal'

However, he didn't respond. On having finally spoken about his sorrow, the vortex of grief had consumed him so deeply that he wasn't even aware of her presence nearby - not till she tapped his arm, at least.

'I should have seen the signs earlier' he lamented 'If I could, I would do anything in my power to stop him from dying...'

'I know you would...' she reassured him, fighting her whelming emotions

Following a prolonged interval of stillness between them, he met eyes with his girl at long last. What she saw thereon depressed her - the anguish in his gazes revealed everything that his restrained words and manner hadn't till then - he was devastated! Her heart sank all over again. She'd never seen him that way - actually, no one had!

Witnessing how dejected she'd become, he confessed with a sad laugh 'I don't deal with death very well...'

'Jalal, NO ONE deals with death well...' for some reason, she was angry now - angry with fate for doing this to him - angry with him for not having told her anything so long - angry with herself for failing to perceive his agony 'God!' she chided herself in a flash 'I had no idea what you were going through and troubled you with...'

'No... come on Jodha...'

'And what are you doing HERE now...' the concerned junior enquired - battling her tears with determination 'Jalal... you should be spending your time with Robbie!'

'I needed to step out...I needed a break from hearing his painful groans...a break from looking at his adorable expressions and wondering if it'd be the last time I saw them...' he choked on his words 'I wanted to see you to feel better...besides, I'd promised you I'd spend our first Holi together...'

'Ok! Ab dekh liyaa na mujhe?' she dashed aside to grab a bowl of colour from a table nearby 'Apply this gulaal... on my cheeks...QUICKLY...'

Moved by the sincere care in her assertive orders, he followed her wishes duly

'Holi khatam? Now go Jalal...' she nudged him 'Go to him...play with him...cherish these last moments... warna, you'll regret it later...'

'Yes ma'am' he smiled gloomily and began walking backwards thereafter 'By the way, I DID notice your sexy brown heels...only couldn't come up with my usual style of compliments today...'

'God! Go on now...' she waved him off 'I'll explain everything to our friends...'

Watching the morose aura enveloping his receding figure, Jodha could only pray that the heartbreaking developments didn't send her man into a spell of depression - his third semester exams were coming up in a few weeks and he did not need another setback in life!

**************************

Hope you enjoyed it 😳

OSR PART 30

1st April

JODHA'S BEDROOM

Flicking the pen within her fingers for a few seconds, the distracted young lady thumped it down on her table thereafter. Picking up the mobile that was lying aside, she glanced at the screen - nope, still no reply. It was the fifth instance in the past hour that she'd checked and the result was the same every time. In fact, it'd been pretty much the same scenario for more than twenty four hours now - a worrying scenario where none of her calls were being picked, none of her texts were being replied to, where he'd left behind no voicemails - nothing! This prolonged silence from him was not the norm! Worse, a 'Something's wrong' feeling had been echoing in her mind ever since she'd woken up that morning - and those instincts only seemed to get worse with time!

'Jalal...' she groaned as she stared at the lifeless screen on her phone 'Can't you send me one message...just a line that you're fine...a word about Robbie...and I'll be able to get back to my studies again...' studies! Suddenly realizing how her attention had been diverted from her notes for the nth time that day, Jodha let out a long sigh 'Only six days left...concentrate on your journal entries now...no time to waste...'

Luckily; the diligent junior had done her Economics and Marketing revisions well ahead - at the rate she was progressing now she wouldn't have managed to get much done if otherwise.

Picking up her pen once again, she attempted to get back to Financial Accounts - she needed to speed up! Two gargantuan texts on Statistical Methodology were sitting on her desk, untouched - and the 1st semester exams were less than a week away!

Such last minute cramming was unusual for this meticulous student. However, her circumstances had been exceptional this time around.

Ever since the news had come out, she - along with the rest of their group - had tried to be by his side throughout. True, she'd only managed to meet him and Robbie a couple of times in the past ten days - the ongoing study leave meant she was mostly housebound. However, that didn't stop her. She regularly called up to check on him , she sent him encouraging texts, she kept in touch with his friends. In the few brief spells that Jalal needed his 'alone' time to mourn, she took a step back and let him be - while dropping him an empathetic 'I'm there if and when you need me' email to show she understood. In fact, Jodha had left no stone unturned in showing her support all ways that she could.

However, what was to happen - was to happen. Robbie was in constant physical agony and being a helpless witness to his pet's deteriorating condition was sapping away all of Jalal's sanity. Adding to his woes were the numerous vet-visits and the plethora of see-sawing news he'd been receiving

'We could try out a surgery...' 'No, he's too old for surgery' 'There is a new medicine in the market' 'The cancer is too advanced for any chance of a recovery' 'He looks better today' 'No improvement today'

With the situation being as it was, it was obvious Jalal wasn't able to get much reading-up done, either.

'Oh God...' she looked up from her entries and at the beautiful face of Ladoo Gopal on the wall in front - the 'something's wrong' feeling had just returned to haunt her psyche again 'We can't change what's happening...but, please give HIM the strength to face this...or at least, allow ME to help him face this tragedy... this impasse is killing me...please let me know what's happ...'

Even before she could finish that prayer, her mobile received a message alert. Hurriedly grabbing the instrument she opened the inbox. It was from HIM!

Fearing the worst, she clicked on the sms

Following a short interval of sullen stillness, she forced her grieving mind to snap out of the overpowering distress that the text had just engulfed her in. She needed to steel herself - at least, for HIS sake! Clutching her handbag, the benumbed young lady got up and rushed out - a hundred different thoughts racing past her mind as she did so

'Jodha...' the puzzled mother mother called out, when noticing her daughter picking up her helmet and scooty keys 'What are you doing? Where are you off to now...' she paused 'And why do you look so disturbed?'

'Something bad has happened mama...' Jodha spoke blankly 'One of my friends... needs me now...I'll be late for dinner...I have my mobile... don't worry...'

THE MUHAMMED HOUSEHOLD

'When did it happen?' she gasped as soon as the profile of the pleasant woman emerged from behind the entrance door 'How's he taking it, aunty?' the perturbed junior was still catching up on her breath - even she knew not how she'd managed to make that frenzied ride from home through rush hour traffic within twenty five minutes flat!

Noticing the haphazardly parked scooty on the porch, Mrs.Banu's somber glimpses fell back upon Jodha's pallor-ridden features 'Come in beta...' her tone was wistful 'It happened this morning...at about 11...'

The mother then accompanied Jodha inside - bringing her up to date on the unfortunate happenings as they made their way through the grand living room. Once they'd reached the marble steps that led to the first floor, she stopped in her tracks and looked upwards - in the direction of her son's room 'He hasn't spoken much to anyone ever since...maybe he'll open up to you...'

'I understand...' she nodded with reassuring frown 'Don't worry...I'll talk to him, aunty...'

JALAL'S BEDROOM

Having stood at the doorway for a good while watching his sorry state, she'd sought to muster all forms of strength to help her handle the troubling circumstances. She NEEDED to! The slumped figure of the 'lost' man seated at one end of his bed was such a disturbing contrast to his commanding personality and upbeat self otherwise.

'Hey' she uttered hushly thereafter, closing the door behind her

'Come in Jodha' he barely looked up

'What are you looking at?' she enquired gently - seeing how his glances hadn't wavered even once from his mobile screen in the past ten minutes

Jalal waited for her to take a seat beside him 'He was in too much pain Jodha...the medicines, the check ups and the travelling was not helping him in anyway... I couldn't see him suffer any more... so I decided to let him go...' he finally went on to show her the screen he'd been guarding so closely

Swallowing back her tears, Jodha received the phone from him - it was evidently a picture taken that morning at the clinic - a picture of Robbie seated on Jalal's lap

'That's his last moment awake' Jalal disclosed with a barren expression looming over his face 'That's the look he gives me when he wants something from me...when I lifted him upon my lap, he thought I was going to help him out of his problems like always...that I was going to put an end to his misery...' he paused 'How was he to know I was going to end his misery by putting him to sleep forever... by ending his life...'

'God!' she felt like wailing aloud - his aggrieving confessions were too painful to deal with. She'd come here to be his pillar of fortitude and yet she could already find herself crumbling under the strain of the tragedy. Well, nothing could prepare her for the heartache that the loss of a loved one caused since she'd never endured such mishap before. As her eyes started welling up, she took a few silent deep breaths so she didn't break down any further than she had at that point

'I didn't cheat him out of his life, right?' Jalal glimpsed up at her with a blank stare

'No Jalal' Jodha wiped the tear blurring her sight, before placing her palm on his shoulder 'You're the best friend he could have ever had...' she phrased her condolences carefully 'Something tells me he is very grateful for the decision you've taken...since he really IS out of his misery now...'

Shrugging slightly, he shifted his attention away from her and to the bleak white wall facing him - too distraught to say anything else for then.

Aware of what he was going through, Jodha allowed him a few minutes of solitude while she continued staring at the adorable picture of Robbie on the phone. A poignant thought struck her thereafter and she sent the snap as an attachment to her own mobile. She knew what she wanted to do with those precious memories.

Ensuing the period of nothingness between them, Jodha patted his hand to show her sympathy. However, he didn't even flinch.

'Jalal' she called out to him softly 'Don't beat yourself up about this...you're a practical man... you know how to differentiate between right and wrong...and sadly, this was how God willed it...'

He didn't react to her words.

Worried, she observed her boyfriend closely - trying to understand his mindset. It was obvious he'd become paralyzed by the sorrow and was unable to come out of it. As far as she knew he hadn't shed a single tear yet - not then - not in the past three weeks. In fact, he hadn't responded gravely to the news at all - he hadn't wailed, sniffled, screamed or broken down even once!

Picking up his lifeless palm thereon, she placed it on her lap and curled her fingers within his. It was more for her sake than for his. She missed the warmth. She needed that warmth. It felt like ages since they'd held hands now - or even properly met eyes for that matter. For the past three weeks, he'd detached himself from everything and everyone around him. For the past three weeks, he'd steadily built a cold hard shell around him that let nothing within.

Playfully twirling around the rings on his fingers, she whispered to him some time later - the pain in her voice evident 'Jalal...you know...its ok to express your feelings to someone...to share your grief...to cry...it is not a sign of weakness...it is only a sign of being human!'

'I didn't cry even when Abbu passed away' came the flat answer

She stared at him in alarm 'W...what...' she couldn't believe it 'B...but why are you so wary of exposing your soft side to others?'

'Because I somehow became numb...to death...'

Looking away from the wall to gaze at her delicate fingers that'd abruptly stopped playing with his rings, he continued on a wry note 'Returning from a friend's house one fine day...to unexpectedly witness the shattering sight of your mother beating her chest and wailing aloud over the dead body of your father, right in the middle of your own living room...can you imagine what effect that would have on a boy...'

'What!' Jodha exclaimed, hearing the upsetting subject he'd just broached. She could envision the harrowing 'living room' scene just as he'd described - leaving her with an ominous sense of discomfort. She'd never heard him speak of this aspect of his past before - not till then, that is.

The dazed young man pursued with his story - his eyes still fixated on their intertwined hands 'That horrid scene sent a carefree twelve year old into shock... that boy wasn't told what'd happened or why because people thought he was too young to deal with the truth... instead, they bought him toys to distract him... he didn't understand why his mother was suddenly absent from home for long hours because no one bothered to inform him that she was fighting battles in court... no one explained to him that his father had been murdered by goons ... goons sent by a politician owning a rival chain of companies... that young boy actually found out about it from the TV channels!'

'Your abbu was murdered?' she gasped, but her voice didn't come out. She needed him to stop right then so she could take a breather - to muster the nerve to hear him out further. She'd asked him open his heart out - how was she to know it had such terrible pain suppressed within? For a second, her own dad's face came to mind. HIS misfortune made her realize how fortunate SHE was to still have her father in her life. The anguish she'd kept under control so long started resurfacing. Tears gushed down her cheeks.

Oblivious to her plight, he persevered towards the end of this tragic tale - his handsome face still devoid of any expression 'Since the little boy was too young to feel angry or do anything about the news he'd found out, he just became bitter and numb...at that point, he'd stopped talking to anyone...he'd stopped sharing his misery ... he'd stopped asking questions because he never got answers ...and his Ammi didn't even notice because she was so crushed herself...he felt like both his parents had been taken away from him for no fault of his... his happy home had been wrecked...he felt cheated...he was alone for a long time...'

'Jalal' she sobbed now, covering her mouth in horror 'This is...'

'And when Taayaa eventually realized what was happening to this twelve year old nephew of his...he decided to get him a companion...' he held his palms up to show her 'He put this little dog in his arms and asked that child to care for it...the dog was a clever German Shepherd who could read that desolate boy's mind and sentiments so well...and the boy and the pet became emotionally dependant on one another since then...'

At long last, Jalal looked up to meet eyes with his tearful girl as he went on to mutter the final disclosure 'Robbie was my kid brother...the one who got me out of loneliness and despair ...and now he's no more...I...' he couldn't get himself to continue anymore - the awful lump in his throat was too acute to overcome. So, he averted her sights for a moment

Stressed by battling the effect that the heartbreaking tale was having upon her, Jodha leaned against his shoulder for support 'Why...' she wept 'Why have you never mentioned any of this...'

'No' he calmly shook his head 'This is not something I like to talk about...apart from Abdul no one knows... they only know that Abbu's no more...' turning aside, he observed her face that was resting on his shoulder and let out a heavy-hearted smirk 'Now do you understand why I'd said I don't deal with the loss of a loved one very well?'

Yes, she understood now. He'd bared his soul to her and she could absorb precisely why he was hurting so much. The revelation had not only moved her to tears, but given the woman in her a newfound respect for her man.

Unceasingly studying those deep brown eyes, she went on to confess in a sincere tone 'You know Jalal...I am so so so so so so so so much prouder of you...despite all this, you've grown up to become such a dignified man...'

'Thanks' he acknowledged

'Yes' Jodha sighed 'But, are you feeling any better...any lighter?'

The fatigued young man exhaled 'Actually, I have a splitting headache now...'

'Oh!' she sat up slowly 'Wait...I'll get you something for it...'

Hurrying to his bedside table, Jodha dug out a medicine strip from within its drawer, grabbed the water bottle sitting atop and returned to his side 'Here...jaldi lo...' she handed him both

'Thankyou' removing two tablets from the strip, he gulped down the medicines with the drink - before setting the bottle down on the floor 'Somehow...Robbie's death brought back all those nightmares... again...'

'No' she grimaced 'Don't delve upon those nightmares...' she sat down, resuming her place next to him 'You're not alone now...you have so many who love you...your Ammi...your family... your friends... and most of all...' trying to recall the very adjectives he'd used for his late friend Robbie, she pursued with concern 'You now have another companion...someone who you care for... someone who can read your mind and sentiments so well...someone who's emotionally dependant on you and someone whom you're emotionally dependant upon...'

'Ya Allah' a quiet shudder went down his spine when he heard how she'd put her thoughts across. Her comforting words were not just about being 'sweet' - something in them brought home a significant underlying message. It was about keeping up hope. If life took away, life gave back too! Abbu had passed away - but, God had given him Robbie. He'd taken away Robbie - but, not without handing him an angel like her in place.

The slightest smile erupted on his face - the first earnest one in the past three weeks. He beheld her with gratitude - his aloof gazes now beginning to soften.

Discovering their original warmth gradually returning to his eyes and his smiles, she was whelmed with a massive sense of relief. Freshly tearing-up, she counselled on an emotional note 'Jalal don't return to those thoughts...they affect you so much... seeing you so low... I... I just can't...function normally...'

'Why?' he asked - realizing how fortunate was he to have such a dedicated partner by his side in happiness AND in grief!

'Arre kyaa WHY' she frowned 'It's something like our sigma formulas na...' she paused 'MY well-being = Sum total of YOUR (health + happiness + love + success) / timescales...'

While she awaited a response from him following that silly-cute formula she'd come up with out of the blue, he just sat back agape - staring and staring on.

God! He loved her that instant like he'd loved none other. Her sincerity had touched him immensely. He was awed by such words that no one else had ever told him. Such a lasting impact had her gestures had on him that he knew not what overcame him that second.

Suddenly leaning forth, he took his unwitting girlfriend by surprise. Clutching the side of her face, he planted his lips on hers.

'Jala...Ammi... might...' her words came out muffled, as she balanced her wrists against his shoulders in trepidation

Sensing her hesitance, he pulled away - a bit - and watched her closely.

Her cheeks still enveloped by his clasp, she surveyed him in stunned silence. That kiss had come out of nowhere. It was their most intimate experience yet and it'd left her feeling jittery and strange. She didn't know what to make of this unfamiliar nervousness within. Continuing to analyze his ardent gazes and the visible affection in them, she could make out that he longed to share that intimacy with her. Even if she was unsure whether to proceed, she didn't have it in her to resist such love! She couldn't thwart his anticipation - especially not after all he'd just been through! After all, she was his and he hers. So, fighting her anxiety she shut her eyes. Seeking support by lovingly grasping his palm that was sitting on her cheek, she let him take her through the thrilling wave of unknown emotions.

Reading her positive reactions, he took the lead and tenderly went ahead to delve into their first proper kiss. Just as she let out an exhilarated sigh, their lips retouched - the moment being a cathartic one for him. Her drying tears that swept off on his cheeks emotionally liberated him - it felt as though she'd shed the tears that he couldn't shed for himself. The fervent heat of her lips had just given his colder ones some much needed warmth. The simmering intensity in her gasps had breathed life into his dull spirits.

His senses now roused, he decided to take the passion up a few notches. He'd craved for this for so long and now that he had her in his arms he didn't want to stop - after all, she tasted just as delightful as she was herself. Sliding one hand around her waist he smoothly dug the other into the thick tresses at the back of her head and pulled her towards him.

Suddenly finding herself drawn into the tighter confines of his steely grasp, Jodha was overwhelmed - more so by her puzzling feelings that followed. She was entrapped within a frenzied surge of emotions but, it was a trap she wasn't really looking to free herself from anymore. Her apprehensions had started fading away and she found herself increasingly hypnotized by the lure of his physicality. Her desire was beginning to conquer many doubts and dilemmas. For the first time in her life, she knew what it meant to be aroused - and the sensations were literally addicting.

Eventually letting her guard down, she slipped her fingers delicately into his soft hair - allowing his lips to discover hers and more - allowing him to to guide her through their first sensual kiss.

A few minutes later, the breathless couple took a break - they could perceive each other's racing beats and heightened excitement in the stillness of the room.

A playful smile on their lips, they indulged in a brief spell of affection - letting the tips of their noses gently brush past one another's. A few seconds later, Jalal spoke up 'The last time this was meant to happen Robbie interrupted us, remember?'

She nodded, slowly

'And this time, he brought us back together...'

She smiled - it was a sad yet sweet thought that'd struck him.

'Love you pal' Jalal glimpsed upwards with a doting frown 'You were the best friend a guy could have ever asked for...' while she watched his positive farewell in quiet awe, he turned back to his girl 'And Jo...you're more than a companion to me...you're my love...the kind that lasts forever...'

'Yes...' she melted, putting her palm on his chest - just about where she could feel his heartbeats 'I live here Jalal... and I'm going to be here forever...'

In the hush gazes that followed between the two, Jodha detected something fresh in his eyes thereafter - a renewed surge of passion had made its way in. Knowing exactly what his intentions were, she nervously averted his infatuated looks at once. Smiling at her adorable abashment, he patiently waited for her to meet eyes with him again - and they did so, in a short while.

Before long; he'd heaved her by her waist towards him once more, as his lips sought hers. Closing her eyes, she succumbed - tightly clutching the shirt on his back for support. The besotted pair plunged into another intense bout of intimacy, reliving the pleasure they'd just savoured - and much more - till they could no further.

THE MUHAMMED HOUSEHOLD - ON THE PORCH

No sooner than she'd hurriedly waved her boyfriend off, Jodha turned ahead and pressed her chest. She needed some means to help calm her heartbeats - something that'd shown no signs of slowing down yet.

Nope, didn't work.

'Bah' she dismissed her crazily erratic heart rate soon after. She had no time for this now - she better get going. Neatening out her hair, Jodha was about to slip her helmet on, but decided to peek into the side mirror first. Her lips were the first feature to catch her attention then. Observing them closely for a few seconds, she went on to touch them. They felt so different now - the onslaught had left them slightly tender - but, not in an unpleasant way.

'My God' she exclaimed in disbelief, as it all came back to her

She still couldn't believe it. Not only had she actually crossed her personal boundaries that evening - she'd actually found the whole encounter somewhat 'enjoyable' too. Gosh! She had no idea what was happening to her. She'd always considered herself above all this - as one who couldn't and wouldn't be swayed by desire. She had never even dreamt that she'd be a part of the kind of scenarios she was indulging in right now.

Then again, she had never ever dreamt that she'd end up with a boyfriend like Jalal Muhammed in college either!

Having got her answer there, Jodha slipped her helmet on - breaking out into a sly grin as she did so.

***********************************************

Hope you enjoyed it😳

Originally posted by: ..Tahniat..

❤️first of all congratulations! ur thread has completed 150 pages🥳

Yours is the FIRST congrajulatory message I got sweetie...Yayyy!

THE BEST FF TITLE GOES TO ITS JUST NOT A PASSIONATE AFFAIR..🥳 Seriously di,

for me this is the best one and I am saying this from the bottom of my heart. Each and every part was written so well. I felt as if I were reading a novel. You are that good in writing. Where did you get the skills from di??

OMG...tahni...thank you thank you thank you - a million times...I read your replies three times..then saved it in my computer and read it again...it was very encouraging...because this FF (not the routine historical na) is not very popular...its comments like yours that keep me going...thanks so much dearest!🤗

The New Year's Eve was The AkDha moments stole my heart away. Credits goes to Sharriffuddin! I was left in surprise after the dark room part and i think i was blushng☺️ Jodha meeting Jalal's mother part was cute. I liked it. I JUST WANT TO HOLD ROBBIE! GOD! HE MUST BE A CUTE DOG!! Pardon me Di... Im an animal lover..

I totally understand dearest 😆

The proposing was nice! Poor Jalal got rejected.But its a very normal thing to do. Their status and most importantly THEIR RELIGION. The society would never agree to the fact that they are in love. Jodha might take time. I also get Jalal's point of view. He has to stay away from Jodha in order to erase Jodha from his mind.HE HAS THE HUGEST CRUSH ON HER!To tell you the truth I felt bad for Jalal. ❤️

Awww yes...its a bit of a 'both are right' situation...😕

Okay now coming to Rishabh... Is this new entry going to spice up the story?? I think yes! Will we get to see jealous Jalal?? Im so excited for the next part...

This guy is actually not a new entry per se..his presence has been there...he's the rishta rishta her family have been going on about ...her bhabhi also gave Jodha her phone number, remember?😆

THE FOOTBALL MATCH❤️ Jodha came! This definently brought a smile over my face... Jodha's ideal man's list: in short Jalal... Jalal is the one! Jodha he is ur man! u must be thinking i have lost it😆

Loool I love the 'lost it' Tahni...🤗

I loved it...my favorite FF..Thankx for writing it🤗

Thank you for loving it, my dearest🤗

Amazing update.. Hopefully jodha starts to realize het feelings for Jalal too. Continue soon..

Originally posted by: _PanCake_

awsum update...👏

Originally posted by: lashy

Thanks so much rajani 🤗

@ Smitha

Got up at 5:00 am, picked up the mobile to check whether you have updated, Voila, our shradda is lady of words as always

I bow to you...my lady...5 am you get up and check this...you made my day when I read this...🤗

U too Brutus stopped at this point. Will you update soon ...Can u try please please

Yes dear...I will try and put one up by Sunday...ok?😳

U know ur Jalal and Jodha, I like more than our serial characters. I feel they are like real life people whom I know. That's way u described each and everything in your fiction.⭐️

I would have disagreed till lately...but, the way the serial has been shaping off late, I'm liking my characters more than than the serial ones...though they're from whom I've derived my inspiration...the ones in the serial are...I don't know what to say...especially Jalal...he's seeming very 'vela' to me lately 😕

No words to describe your writing style. 👏 MUAH ...that too 1000's...Take care dear

Thank you...🤗

amazing chapter.cant wait to know what jo will do now.remain as defiant as before or be more bollywood like and go to jalal as she knows he is hurt.by the way i realised in the previous chapter itself that her ideal guy was him.nice she realised it too.she has feelings for him.come on yaar!!accept it.please update soon

VOW AMAZING CHAPTER ...Jallu hurt and u stopped it not fair... Jodha's reaction can't wait for more👏👏👏..RES