IF IT'S NOT FOREVER, IT'S NOT LOVE( Chapter 42 on page 83) - Page 5

CHAPTER 22

Manik and Dhruv spent some quality time together and then Manik went back to the music room for practicing with Nandini. He realised he was late so he started walking fast. Meanwhile, Nandini was in the music room with Cabir. They were talking and laughing together on the stupid jokes by Cabir.

Nandini: Cabir! You are so funny. Tum na abhi bhi waise hi ho.

Cabir: Ya I know. Bachpan me bhi mai cool tha ab bhi hu.

Nandini: Ya right. You always used to make me laugh hard with your jokes and now also you are doing the same.

Meanwhile, Manik was coming towards the music room. He said to himself," Shit. I am so late. Ab Nandu bohot gussa hojayegi. I have to go fast" He literally started running towards the music room and as soon as he entered the music room he was breathing heavily and when he saw Nandini and Cabir laughing he gave a stern look to them and walked towards them.

Cabir: Manik why are you breathing so fast?

Manik looking at Nandini: Nandini ki wajahse.

Nandini: What? Maine kya kiya?

Manik: You don't like it na when I come late for practice. Isiliye mai bhaag kar aa raha tha. I thought you will get angry and firse mujhe lecture sunn na padega.

Nandini: Ohh. So Mr. Manik Malhotra ko mujhse darr lagta hai.

Manik: Miss Nandini Murthy I am not scared of you. Okay? I just ..Just chuck it. Cabir tu yaha kya kar raha hai?

Cabir dramatically: Ab tujhe mere yaha hone se bhi problem hai? Dost dost na raha.

Manik: Cabir! Stop your drama. I was just asking casually.

Cabir: Meri jungli billi se bat kar raha tha.

Manik: Okay. Nandini chalo practice karte hai. Bye Cabir!

Nandini: Aree Manik. Cabir is staying here only.

Cabir side hugged Nandini: Yehi hai meri sachi dost.

Manik chuckled looking at them and then picked up his guitar and started tuning it. After some time of practicing MaNanBir sat down and started talking and started remembering their old memories. They were having a great time. After some time, Cabir got a call so he went outside to receive it. Manik and Nandini were alone in the music room and there was an awkward silence. They both didn't know what to speak with each other. Manik broke the silence. He was back in his mischievous mode. Manik came closer to Nandini.

Manik: Nandini.

Nandini: Manik.

He moved closer to her face

Manik: Let's finish what we had left incomplete.

Nandini smiled and she also moved closer to his face.

Nandini: Ya Manik.

Manik was shocked at first but he became happy also. They both were very close to each other. Nandini kept her arms around his neck and started moving her hand seductively on his neck. Manik was going crazy with her touch. Nandini moved her one hand to his face and started caressing his face while looking into his eyes lovingly. Manik was now completely going mad. He loved this Nandini. Nandini tiltled her face a little and their noses touched. Manik closed his eyes expecting a kiss. Nandini smirked looking at his cute face and then she pushed him a little and ran away from him. Manik opened his eyes with shock as he was expecting a kiss but she trapped him. He gave a stern look to Nandini and he also got up and ran towards her. Manik was chasing Nandini and Nandini was running away from him and laughing. Seeing her laugh like a small baby, Manik was feeling very happy and now he was also smiling. Meanwhile, Dhruv was walking and thinking about what had happened today.

He came near the music room and heard some noises. He peeped inside the glass of the door and saw Nandini and Manik running after each other and laughing. Manik was tired now so he stopped and so did Nandini. Manik slowly came from behind and held her from her waist and pulled her closer.

Manik: I caught you Nandu!

Nandini: Leave me na Manik.

Manik smiling: No Nandu. This time I won't leave you.

They both were smiling and laughing and this was witnessed by Dhruv. Seeing them so happy with each other Dhruv started smiling. He looked at Manik who was very happy. His eyes had that spark which he had never seen. His smile was different. He was actually smiling. Dhruv smiled and went away from there.

Dhruv's POV

Mai buddy se kaise keh sakta hu ki mai Nandini ko like karta hu. He will never take away the thing which I like. Wo mere liye kuch bhi kar sakta hai. I will never tell him about my feelings and let him be happy. Jabse Nandini aayi hai tabse wo bohot khush rehta hai. Mai itna to kar hi sakta hu. Jhoot bolna padega lekin isme Buddy ki khushi hai. Yes! now I am sure that I won't let my happiness come over his happiness.

End of POV

As soon as Dhruv left, Cabir came inside and saw these two love birds having fun. He smiled looking at them. Nandini was trying hard to free herself from his grip but he was strong enough to hold her tight. Nandini saw Cabir and said loudly," Cabir. Please help me na." Cabir came near them and started helping Nandini. After some time, Manik left Nandini and three of them started laughing. After having fun for a long time they went back to their rooms.

AT NIGHT IN MANIK AND CABIR'S ROOM

Cabir: Manik. Ek bat puchu? Please ab to sach bata dena.

Manik: Ha. Han Cabir puch na.

Cabir: What is going on between you and Nandini?

Manik: What? Nothing.

Cabir: Fine. Mat bata.

Cabir went back to his bed with anger. He was expecting an honest answer from his best friend but he didn't say anything. Manik got upset thinking that he has been lying from a long time. He thought that he should tell him about his feelings.

Manik: Cabir!

Cabir: Oh please Manik! I don't want any explanations.

Manik: I LOVE NANDINI. Yes I LOVE HER.

Cabir stood up with a jerk and a big smile on his face. He was very happy that his best friend is finally sharing something with him. He came near him and Manik also got up with a big smile on his face. Cabir hugged him and Manik also gave in.

Cabir: So finally! You accepted that you love her.

They both broke the hug. Cabir said: Bro what are you waiting for? Go and tell her.

Manik: What? Are you crazy? How can I tell her? I mean wo.

Cabir: Omg! Manik Malhotra is nervous!

Manik: Cabir! Shut up!

Cabir: Okay fine! I am just happy that you shared everything with me. Now tell me what is your plan? How are you going to tell her?

Manik: Woh sab tu mujhpe chhod de. I will tell her but at right time.

Cabir: Okay bro! Good night.

Manik smiled while ruffling his hair and went to his bed to sleep. He was thinking about how to confess his feelings in front of Nandini. He was in deep thoughts and suddenly he got an idea and got up from his bed and said to himself," Oh yess! I got it. I will confess my feelings after our performance. Nandini Murthy it is gonna be the best day of your life. I have exactly 1 week to prepare for my surprise. It will be our day." He smiled and went to his bed. Meanwhile, Nandini was sitting near her window with the jar or fireflies. She was thinking about Manik and blushing. She started talking with her fireflies. She said," How should I tell Manik what I feel about him? I have to confess but kaise? I really love him and I have never felt something like this for anyone. Oh yes! We are going to perform together after a week. It will be the right time. I will confess my feelings in front of him. But kuch sochna padega. Something special. Yes! I know how can I surprise him. Manik Malhotra just wait and watch you will be super surprised. It will be our day Manik. Our day of love." She kissed the jar of fireflies and went to her bed to sleep.

NEXT MORNING

Nandini woke up very early and got ready. It was Sunday so she wore a beautiful knee length light blue coloured dress. She was very happy with the realisation of her love. Her face was glowing and her smile added to her beauty. She went towards the boys hostel. It was very early so she didn't see anybody. She went towards Manik and Cabir's room.She knocked on the door but no one opened. Cabir shouted," Aree whoever it is I am not going to open. Go away." Nandini sighed and knocked harder. Cabir was in no mood to open the door so he kept the pillow on his ears and slept again. The voice of knock went on increasing. Nandini didn't scream as it was boys hostel and she didn't want anyone to see her. She sighed and stood taking the support of the door and kept knocking. Manik gave up and went towards the door. He rubbed his eyes and his hairs were messy. He got angry with the constant knocking so he opened the door very fast. Nandini who was standing taking the support of the door lost her balance and closed her eyes thinking that she would fall. But she felt 2 strong arms holding her from her waist. She opened her eyes and her eyes widened to see a shirtless Manik holding her in his arms. She kept staring at him and Manik also kept staring at her serene face which was glowing. Due to the sudden fall Nandini's hand was touching Manik's bare chest. Their hearts were beating wildly. Manik pulled her closer and they kept staring at each other. Nandini bit her lower lip and seeing this turned on Manik. He was losing his control. He moved closer to her lips but they were disturbed by the voice of Cabir clearing his throat. Manik made Nandini stand and they both were looking down in embarrassment and the here and there. Cabir just kept looking at them and he started laughing. Manik gave a stern look to Cabir and Nandini blushed a little and again bit her lower lip so that no one can see her blushing. Manik again saw Nandini bitting her lip.

Manik: Stop doing that Nandini!

Nandini: Doing what?

Manik: Nothing! (He closed the door and came back towards Nandini.) Anyways what are you doing in boys hostel?

Nandini: Wohh. Main. Mujhe kuch kam tha.

Cabir smirked: Kisi se milne aayi thi?

Nandini: Han. Ma.. Mai tumse milne aayi thi Cabir. Mujhe kuch kam tha.

Cabir: ya say na Nandu. Kya kam hai?

Nandini: Wohh. Cabir. Abhi nahi.

Manik: Kyu abhi nahi?

Nandini: Because it's a secret and I don't want you to know about it.

Manik was sad: What secret? Aisa kya hai jot um mujhe nahi batana chahti?

Nandini: Nothing. I said na it's a secret.

Manik: Fine. Mai ja raha hu yaha se so that you can discuss your SECRET.

( He wore his t black t shirt and stormed out of the room with anger and banged the door while going. Nandini jerked with that noise. Cabir came near her and tapped on her shoulder)

Cabir: Nandu! Yeh kya kar diya tune?

Nandini: Cabir! I know Manik is hurt but I can't help it. Mai usey mana lungi. Don't worry about that. I need your help.

Cabir: Ya say na Nandu. I am always ready to help you!

Nandini smiled: Cabir I know that. You are my best friend.

Cabir: Now come to the point. What help do you need?

Nandini: Ya. Cabir do you have all our pictures? I mean our childhood pics.

Cabir: Yeah! I have all of them. Kyu kya hua achanak se?

Nandini smiled: Just show it to me.

Cabir brought out a box from his cupboard and showed it to Nandini. Nandini looked at all the pictures and took out some of her and Manik's photos and was very happy looking at them.

Cabir: Ab bataogi kya chal raha hai?

Nandini: Cabir! It's a surprise for Manik. Promise me you won't tell anything to him.

Cabir: Okay promise. But mujhe to batao.

Nandini: No Cabir. I will tell you later. Bye I have lots to do.

Cabir: Okay bye! (They both hugged and then Nandini left from there)

Meanwhile, Manik was super angry with Nandini. He was thinking what Nandini was hiding from him. He couldn't believe the fact that Nandini didn't want to tell something to him. He was very angry so he decided to go to Dhruv. He had Dhruv's keys so he entered and saw Dhruv sleeping. He went near him and started ruffling his hair with a smile on his face. He sat there for a while and then got up and went to his study table and opened a book which seemed like his school book so he started turning the pages. In the initial pages there were maths problems. But then he saw that after a few pages there was something written. He started reading it. Dhruv had written about how he became friends with Nandini and then about how Nandini had helped him. He turned the pages of the book and at last it was written in bold," I think I am falling for Nandini." Manik was hell shocked. He got up from the chair with a jerk which made the chair fall. Dhruv woke up and saw Manik holding his book. Dhruv stood up in front of him. Manik looked at him. Dhruv snatched the book from him and saw that he had read what he didn't want him to read. They both looked at each other in shock. Dhruv was about to say something but Manik left without saying anything.

Manik said to himself," So Dhruv was hiding this. Usne mujhe aur Nandini ko music room me dekh liya tha." He was upset and walked towards his room.

Dhruv said to himself," Shit. Buddy ko pata chal gaya. I have to talk with him or else.. Shit. How can I be so irresponsible? Ab wo Nandini se durr rehne ki koshish karega and I can't let that happen."

RECAP: Manik to avoid Nandini.

Manik and Nandini romance.

CHAPTER 14

Nandini was upset because Navya left but she plastered a fake smile in front of everyone. No one could get a hint that she was upset but only one person could see guess that something was wrong with her. It was none other than Manik Malhotra. Manik was looking for an opportunity to ask about her sadness but he couldn't. After some boring classes it was time for Maths class and it was Nandini's favourite subject and Manik hated it. Nandini was sitting alone so Manik thought that it was the right time to ask her about her sadness. At the same time Dhruv also thought of sitting beside Nandini. But before he could sit with her Manik sat with Nandini and Dhruv took a seat with Aliya. Manik and Nandini were silent during the class and Dhruv was looking at Nandini. Aliya noticed this and smiled and hit Dhruv's elbow lightly with her's.

Dhruv: What?

Aliya: Nothing. I was telling that concentrate on the lecture.

Dhruv: Aliya. Mai lecture pe hi concentrate kar raha hu. Tum kya bol rahi ho?

Aliya: I saw you were looking at Nandini. (She winked at Dhruv and Dhruv just smiled)

At the same time the teacher scolded them and warned them that if they make any noise they will be kicked out. So they didn't speak anything after that. Meanwhile, Nandini was busy solving mathematical problems and Manik was just finding ways to confront her. He thought of an idea. He started writing something on his book and passed to Nandini.

Manik: Nandu! What is wrong with you?

Nandini looked at Manik and then she wrote on the same book and passed it back to Manik: Nothing. Why are you asking?

Manik: Nandini, I know you very well. You can't fool me. Just tell me what is wrong with you.

Nandini smiled and said: Manik, Kaise karte ho tum? Anyways I am just upset because Navya left. I don't even know that she will return or not.😭

Manik: NANDU! Don't be sad. She will be back and I think it will be good for her to take a break from all this. And I am sure ye jo bhi hua uske bad she will be more careful.😊

Nandini: Hmm.. I think you are right. Now please concentrate.😊

Manik: Where?😛😉

Nandini chuckled: You idiot! On the lecture!😆😆

Manik chuckled: Haha. Your idiot.!😉

They both were busy in their own world. But the teacher saw them and kicked them out of the class. Nandini apologised but the teacher didn't listen and said them to leave. Nandini being the studious girl didn't move so Manik held her hand and walked out of the classroom with attitude and Nandini just followed him looking down in embarrassment. They went out and Manik started laughing and Nandini just glared at him angrily.

Nandini: Manik you are laughing!

Manik: Nandini just relax. It's no big deal.

Nandini: It's a big deal for me Mr. Monster.

Manik smiled: Nandini just chuck it and come with me.

Saying this he dragged her with him. Meanwhile, in the classroom, Mukti and Cabir were getting bored and trying hard to get out of the class.

Cabir: Yaar ye Nandini aur Manik kitne lucky hai.

Mukti: Han yaar Cabir. Un dono ko nikal diya. Aur hum yaha desperately bahar nikalna chahte hai par ye Prof. Rao nikal hi nahi raha hai.

Cabir: Han. Kitne maze kar rahe honge.

Meanwhile, Manik and Nandini came behind the music block near the stairs.

Nandini: Manik mujhe yaha kyu leke aaye ho?

Manik sat on the stairs and pulled her and she landed beside him. She was still angry with Manik. Manik smiled looking at her cute face. She was not looking at Manik so Manik turned her face and made a puppy face and apologised which melted Nandini's heart and she ruffled his hair and accepted his apology. Manik kept his hand around her shoulder and pulled her closer.

Manik: Nandu! How is Rishab?

Nandini became sad: He is not fine Manik. Usne kuch bola hi nahi uss accident ke bad.

Manik: Nandu please sad mat hona firse. And listen Rishab will be fine. Hum kuch karenge. Don't worry. Okay?

Nandini smiled and side hugged Manik: Okay.

Manik also hugged her tightly and smiled. They both remained in the same position for a while and then Manik said that it was lunch time so they both went to the canteen. Everyone was waiting for them in the canteen itself.

Manik: Hi guys. What's up?

Cabir: Tum dono ne maze kar liye isiliye itne khush ho.

Manik: Han wo to hai. Anyways mujhe bohot bhuk lagi hai.

Everyone finished their lunch and were about to leave when the peon came and informed that Nyonika has called up and has some important work with Manik. Manik became angry listening to this as he knew what work Nyonika has with Manik and he declined to attend the phone call. Nandini didn't know about Nyonika's real face.

Nandini: Manik! What is wrong with you? Why are calling her Nyonika? She is your mom. Go and attend the call. It might be important.

Manik: Nandini please! You don't know anything about it. That Nyonika

Nandini interrupted: Shut up Manik! She is your mom. Tum aise bat kaise kar sakte ho apni mom ke bare me.

Manik got very angry and held Nandini's shoulder tightly and said: Nandini! Stop it!

Nandini: It's hurting me Manik. Leave me.

Manik immediately left her and Nandini said: Manik! Please listen.

Manik: Nandini leave!

Nandini: But Manik

Manik: I said leave!

Nandini had tears in her eyes. She couldn't understand why Manik was behaving like this with her. She ran from there and went to her room and started crying. After she left Manik also left from there in anger and went to his room. Cabir followed him and tried to talk with him but it was of no use.

AT NIGHT

Nandini was sad and Manik was angry. They both didn't come for dinner. At night around 8:30 pm Manik was thinking about Nandini and realised he behaved very badly with her. He got up from his bed and went to the canteen. He got something to eat and sneaked in to the girl's hostel and went towards Nandini's room. He knocked the door and Nandini opened the door. Manik went inside and Nandini was shocked to see him there.

Nandini: Manik!

Manik: Nandini. Tum kuch kaho us se pehle I am so sorry. I behaved so rudely with you. Please maaf kar do mujhe. Please. ( Manik held his ears and said while making a puppy face)

Nandini smiled and said: Manik it's okay. I am sorry too. Maine hi kuch galat kaha hoga jis se tumhe bura laga.

Manik cupped her face and said: Nandu! It was not your fault. Tumhe pata nahi tha kuch. In fact it's my fault ki maine tumhe kuch bataya nahi.

Nandini: Kya nahi bataya?

Manik: Wo mai bataunga but pehle let's have dinner. I know tumhe kuch khaya nahi hoga.

Nandini: Aur tumne bhi!

They both just smiled looking at each other and then they sat on the floor taking the support of the bed and started eating. After finishing their dinner they both sat on the bed taking support of the wall.

Manik: Nandu!

Nandini: Hmm..

Manik: When we were in US, Nyonika ne mujhe kabhi time nahi diya. And I used to be with you and Cabir always. That time I didn't know ki wo aisi hai. After we came back to India and as I grew up, I got to know the real side of her. She taught me that every relationship is give and take. She never gave me motherly love. Usne aaj tak mujhe isiliye sambhal kar rakha hai taki usko mere dad se paise mil sake. I am just a source of money for her.

Nandini felt sad and she held Manik's hand tightly: Manik!

Manik: Nandu! Let me finish. You know Nandini agar mujhe us se kuch kam ho mujhe badle me kuch karna padta hai uske liye. I hate her. I just hate her. And she hates me too. Usne kabhi mujhe time nahi diya. Sab mujhe akela chod dete hai. I wish kabhi US chodke aata hi nahi. Waha sab kitna acha tha. Waha tum thi aur tumhare mom dad mujhse kitna pyaar karte the. Nyonika to kisi ki bhi mom ban na deserve nahi karti. She is a self-centred and a selfish woman.

Nandini had tears in her eyes: Manik! I am with you and I will always be with. Promise!

Manik looked at her with tears in his eyes: Nandini promise?

Nandini smiled: Nandini promise.

Manik pulled her closer and wrapped his arms around her and Nandini also held him tightly. They both closed their eyes. They both were so happy to be in each other's arms. They both were relaxed and feeling each other's warmth. Manik never felt so happy with anyone and Nandini too. They stayed in each other's arms for a long time without speaking anything. After sometime, Nandini opened her eyes and saw that her fireflies were shinning. She just stared at them and started smiling and then again closed her eyes.

Nandini's POV

Manik, I feel so safe and protected in your arms. I wish that you keep me protected like this in your arms, forever. And Manik I will always be with you no matter what.

Manik's POV

Nandu, My angel I never shared anything with anyone. But today after sharing everything with you I am feeling so good. And being in your arms like this feels so good. I promise that I will always be with you and protect you.

Manik and Nandini were wrapped in each other's arms and they didn't realise when they fell asleep.

PRECAP: Dhruv has an attack.

Nandini comes to know about Dhruv's problem.

CHAPTER 13

In the evening

Harshad was in the music room and NavNi also came there at 6 pm. Harshad was holding Manik's guitar and was having a devilish smirk on his face.

Nandini: Harshad maine Manik ko convince kar liya hai.

Harshad: Great. So everything is set.

Nandini: Yes. So tum 7 baje yaha aajana.

Harshad: Okay. So see you then.

Harshad went out and Navya also ran behind him. Nandini waited there for fab5 as they had decided to meet in the music room. Nandini was roaming here and there in the music room waiting for them. After some time fab5 reached the music room.

Nandini: Finally you guys are here.

Manik: Sab thik hai na? Why are you so tensed?

Nandini: Kuch nahi Manik. I just want this plan to succeed.

Cabir: Don't worry Nandini. Hum sab ko aadat hai Harshad se deal karne ki. Wo kuch nahi kar payega.

Mukti: Yeah! He is going down this time.

Dhruv goes near the guitar and touches the strings and he says," Ouchh." Manik came close to Dhruv and held his hand and saw blood and he got angry. Dhruv said," Ye strings kitni sharp hai!" Manik said," Buddy tujhe kya zarurat thi is se hat lgane ki. Don't you know Harshad mujhe hurt karne ka koi reason nahi chodega." Dhruv smiled and said," Mai check nahi karta to tujhe lag jati na." Manik smiled and hugged him and Dhruv also hugged him back. Everyone else just smiled looking at them. After a few seconds they broke the hug and Manik said," Guys let's get going with our plan." Everyone agrees. Cabir wears gloves and changes the strings with the normal ones.

Manik: So guys. Now you all leave. And Nandini tumne wo laya hai jo maine kaha tha?

Nandini: Ya Manik. It's in my bag.

Manik: Great. Cabir and Mukti tum dono yeh banner ke piche chup jao. And Aliya and Dhruv you both wait outside and keep an eye on Harshad and Navya.

Everyone agrees and leaves for their work as per Manik's instructions. In the music room there was a banner kept by them so Mukti and Cabir hid behind it. Aliya and Dhruv were in the adjacent room. Manik and Nandini were in the music room. It was 7 pm. Nandini peeped out through the door and saw Harshad and Navya coming there. She went back inside and said," Manik wo dono aa rahe hai. Start playing your guitar." Manik smiles and says," Yes boss." Nandini also smiles and sits beside him on the chair. Harshad and Navya are outside the music room. Manik starts playing his guitar and screams," Ahhh.." Nandini also screams loudly so that Harshad can hear," Manik. Kya hua?" Manik winks at her and again screams," Ouchhh. Aahhh.. It's paining." Harshad hears all this and smirks. Nandini says loudly," Manik wait mai kuch karti hu." At the same time she takes out a bottle of red food colour and pours it on Manik's hands. Now Manik's hand was full of red colour. Manik again screams," Ahh. Nandini.. Ouchh." Nandini says loudly ," I am sorry. Mai abhi kisi ko bulakar aati hu." She walks towards the door and switches off the lights and goes out.

Nandini: Harshad maine lights switch off kar di hai. You can go now.

Harshad: Good job Nandini. Tum yaha Navya ke sath ruko mai andar jar aha hu.

He takes his bag and goes inside. He enters inside and wears his glasses through which he can clearly see in dark. He saw Manik's hand full of blood and smirks. He keeps his bag down and takes out cricket bat from it and goes near Manik. Meanwhile, Nandini is scared for Manik and suddenly she realises that Manik is scared of darkness. She says to herself," Aiyappa I am such a fool. Mai kaise bhul gyi ki Manik ko andhere se darr lagta hai. Ab mai kya karungi."

Meanwhile,Harshad goes near Manik but Manik couldn't see anything. He had no idea that Harshad was coming towards him. Suddenly Harshad lifts the bat and hits it on Manik's hand and Manik screams," Ahhh. Harshad!" Harshad laughs and says," So Manik finally you are trapped." Nandini hears Manik screaming so she gets scared and at the same time Dhruv and Aliya come out. She runs towards them and starts crying.

Nandini: Dhruv. Please go inside and save Manik. Harshad. He..

Dhruv: Relax Nandini. Mai dekhta hu.

Navya saw this and becomes angry and goes near Nandini, Aliya and Dhruv.

Navya: Nandini tum yeh kya kar rahi ho? Tumne hume dhoka diya.

Nandini: Navya tum galat samajh rahi ho. Mai ye sab tumhare liye kar rahi hu.

Navya: Bas Nandini. Hum samajh gaye tum kaisi dost ho.

Nandini: Navya abhi please galat mat samjho mujhe. Aur Dhruv please tum Manik ke pas jao. Us se kuch ho gaya to.

Dhruv rushes inside and Aliya keeps her hand on Nandini's shoulder and says," Nandini Please don't worry. He is Manik. Nothing will happen to him." Nandini doesn't reply and keeps on crying. Navya gets angry and says," Hum andar ja rahe hai. Harshad ji ki madat karne." Navya storms inside and Nandini and Aliya also follow her. As soon as they enter, Aliya holds Navya's hand and keeps her hand on Navya's mouth. Harshad again hits on Manik's hand and Manik screams. Nandini gets scared and worried about Manik so she turns on the lights. Manik's hand was hurting so much and he was holding his right hand with his left one. Nandini saw this and couldn't control so she ran towards Manik and holds his right hand in her hand and then she looks at Manik with tears in her eyes. Harshad gets angry and turns Nandini around by pulling her hand.

Harshad: Nandini tum yaha kya kar rahi ho? I told you that don't come inside.

Nandini: So this was your evil plan. Tum mujhe aur Navya ko isiliye andar nahi aane dena chahte the na kyuki tum Manik ko hurt kar sako.

Harshad: What is wrong with you? Get out and let me complete my revenge.

Nandini got very angry and said: Harshad. Stop it. Don't you dare hurt Manik ever again. Samjhe tum? You are a devil Harshad. Seriously how can you fall so low? Aisa revenge kyu lena chahte ho tum.

Harshad: You stay out of this.

He pushes Nandini and she falls down. Aliya leaves Navya and goes towards Nandini and helps her to get up. Navya also goes near Nandini and then looks at Manik's hand whose was full of blood. She feels bad for Manik. Mukti and Cabir who were standing behind the banner also come out. Mukti couldn't control herself and she came near Harshad and slapped him tightly. All her anger that she was hiding inside her came out.

Mukti: Harshad. Tumne mere sath jo kiya uske bad bhi humne tumhe jail nahi bheja just because you are Aliya's brother. But mai tumhari wajahse kisi aur ki zindagi kharab hone nahi dungi.

Harshad: Mukti just shut up. You deserved it.

Mukti: You shut up. I deserved it? Huh? What do you mean? Tumne pehle mujhe cheat kiya when I loved you truly. And then you harassed me, abused me and forced yourself on me. Tumne mujhe itna torture kiya ki mai suicide karna chahti thi. You ruined my entire life Harshad.

Harshad smirked: Yes I did all this just because you deserved it. Tumhare jaisi ladki yehi deserve karti hai.

Navya was shocked to hear all this. Navya couldn't believe what she heard. She also got angry and went near Harshad and slapped him. Harshad was shocked.

Navya: Harshad bas karo. Tum yehi deserve karte ho. Kisi bhi ladki ke sath aisa karne ka hakk nahi hai tumhe. Humne aap pe kyu bharosa kar liya. Aap jaise ladke ko to mar jana chahiye. ( Saying this she started crying)

Harshad was left with no option rather than leaving. So he left from there. Nandini saw Manik's hand and ran towards him and hugged him while crying. Everyone else too came near Manik. Navya was crying badly but was also shocked to see Nandini and Manik hugging each other. Manik smiled and said," Nandini I am fine. Mujhe kuch nahi hua hai." Nandini said," Shut up Manik. Maine dekha tumhe bohot pain ho raha tha." Manik smiled and everyone was also shocked to see him smiling. Manik broke the hug and smiled at Nandini. Manik removed his jacked and everyone saw that he was wearing something to protect his hand.

Manik: Guys. Stop worrying. Mujhe pata tha Harshad kaisa hai. So I was prepared.

Nandini sighed in relief: Manik you idiot! Kitna darr gayi thi mai.

Cabir: Han yaar. Sachme dara diya tha tune. Waise jo plan kiya tha wo to hua nai. But Harshad ki sachai samne aa hi gayi.

Navya was still shocked to know that Harshad did all this with Mukti and she ran out while crying. Nandini was about to go behind her but Mukti stopped her and went behind Navya. Navya was running but Mukti stopped her by calling her name.

Mukti: Navya. I know it's hard for you to digest the fact about Harshad. But yehi sach hai. And you have to accept it.

Navya: Mukti. Hum kitne bade bewakoof hai jo humne Harshad par bharosa kar liya.

Mukti: Navya you are not a fool. Harshad ki wajahse meri life kharab hogayi. Tum khudki life mat kharab karna.

Navya: Hmm..

At night, Nandini and Navya were in their room. Navya was very upset and Nandini tried to console her but she couldn't. She was also feeling sad for Navya. After some time they both slept.

NEXT MORNING

Nandini woke up and saw that Navya was not there. She decided to get ready and go to search for her. She opened her cupboard and found that Navya's clothes and other things were also not there. Nandini sat on the bed and then she found a letter on her side table. She opened the letter and read it. It was written that," Nandu, Jab tak tum uthogi hum ja chuke honge. Hum patna ja rahe hai Amma ke pas. Kal jo hua uske bad hum nahi rehna chahte waha. Humne principal se 1 hafte ki leave li hai. Par hum nahi jante ki hum wapis aana chahenge ya nahi. Tum apna khayal rakhna aur han ye padh kar rona mat. Tum haste hue bohot achi lagti ho. Humesha khush rehna." Nandini got very upset after reading the letter. She didn't know what to do now.

Sorry for such a boring chapter. I just wanted to finish this Harshad's case as soon as possible. So please forgive me. And keep reading. In the next chapters many MaNan scenes will be there so keep reading.

CHAPTER 21

RECAP: Abhimanyu's entry

Manik gives a love bite on Nandini's neck.

Dhruv confesses his feelings for Nandini to Aliya.

NEXT DAY

All the classes had finished and it was half day so everyone was free after lunch. Everyone attended all the lectures and was bored but Manik and Nandini were happy being around each other. Fab5, Nandini, Navya and Abhi went back to their rooms. While walking towards Nandini and Navya's room, Nandini was thinking about Manik and their passionate moments. She was blushing hard. At the same time, Manik was in his room with Cabir. Manik was lost in Nandini's thoughts and Cabir was observing his changing expressions every second. He thought he shouldn't disturb him so he just started doing his own work. After some time,

Manik happily: Cabir my bro, whats up?

Cabir: Ohh Manik. Tu yaha? Kitne dino bad mil rahe hai na?

Manik: What?

Cabir chuckled: Haha. Kuch nahi. Bol mere bhai itna khush kyu hai?

Manik: Nothing. Just.. Umm.. Chhodd I am going to the music room. I just feel like singing. So bye.

Cabir: Okay bro! We will join you in some time.

Manik: Ya bye!

Manik picked up his guitar and went to the music room happily. Meanwhile, Nandini was on her study table with books in front of her but she was lost in Manik's thoughts. She opened her diary and was smiling looking at her diary. She had written Manik's name everywhere and all the moments spent with Manik were written in that diary. She opened the starting pages where she had written "MONSTER MANIK" She remembered when she thought he was a monster but deep down she knew that he is a sweet guy masked behind a monster. She said to herself," Manik Manik Manik you are always in my thoughts. I just can't stop thinking about you. You have made a place in my heart. I just don't know what is happening with me. These feelings are so new, so different, so pure. I think I really am falling for you Manik. And I think Manik also..(she blushed and then touched her lips and remembered about the kiss) I had my first kiss with my childhood bestie, My Manik, My monster. I can't believe this." She again started blushing and this time Navya noticed her blushing looking at her diary. She went near her and snatched that diary and ran towards her bed. Nandini stood up with a jerk. Navya opened the diary and saw Manik's name written everywhere. She smiled and then started laughing.

Navya: Manik Manik Manik. Har jagah sirf Manik ka nam.. Hmm. Kya chal raha hai Nandu?

Nandini: Navya please give me that diary. It's my personal diary. Please Navya.

Navya: No Nandini. I won't give.

Nandini: Navya please kisi ki personal diary padhna achi bat nahi hoti. Please de do na.

Navya: Ek shart pe dungi.

Nandini: Kya?

Navya came closer: You will tell me about your feelings for Manik.

Nandini was shocked but then she calmed down: Okay. But give that diary to me and never ever try to read it. Promise?

Navya pulled her cheeks: Aww. You are so cute. Ye lo. Mai nahi padhungi. PROMISE!

Nandini took the diary and safely kept inside her cupboard. She came near Navya and they both sat on the bed looking at each other. Navya was sitting very excitedly as if she is a school girl and her mom is going to tell her a fairy tale. Nandini sighed looking at her and she thought that she should share it with Navya as they have become really good friends.

Nandini: Navya what do you want to know?

Navya: Yehi ki tum Manik ke bare me kya feel karti ho. Sach batana Nandu. I am your best friend na?

Nandini smiled: Yes Navya you are my best friend.

Navya: Han toh chalo batao.

Nandini: Navya, I don't know what I feel about him. I just feel happy being around him. Whenever he is near me my heart starts beating fast. Whenever he hugs me I feel like my life is complete and I have found my solace. I can't see him with anyone else. Mai chahti hu ki wo humesha mere pas rahe.

Navya smiled: Aur?

Nandini: Aur kya Navya. Mujhe nahi pata yeh feelings kya hai.

Navya: Nandu! You are in love with Manik. It's pretty clear.

Nandini's eyes widened and then she started blushing. Nandini stood up still blushing to avoid Navya's gaze. Navya also stood up and went in front of her to see her blushing. Nandini just hugged Navya tightly. Navya also hugged her back.

Meanwhile, Manik was happily playing his guitar in the music room. He was alone and he was just thinking about Nandini. Manik stopped playing his guitar and closed his eyes. He saw himself kissing Nandini. He just blushed thinking about that beautiful moment. He said to himself," Nandini you are driving me crazy. Never have I ever blushed in my while life thinking about a girl. But you are something different. You are so innocent, so beautiful and you are just like an angel. No one can ever take your place in my life. Now I am sure that I have completely fallen for you." He stood up and went in front of the mike and started playing his guitar. Meanwhile, Cabir, Nandini and Navya also came towards the music room. Navya winked at Cabir and Cabir was shocked. But then Navya pointed towards Nandini who was smiling like anything and Cabir understood and he also smiled.

Nandini: Cabir tumnhara message mila to we came here.

Cabir: Ya. Aaj Manik baba ka mood bohot acha hai pata nahi kyu to wo andar hai aur hum sab ko aane ko kaha tha. Waise uska mood aaj kal roz acha hi hota hai.

Nandini smiled: That's good na Cabir. So let's go inside.

They all went inside and saw Manik playing his guitar. They were in front of him but he was so busy in himself that he didn't even look at them. He started singing with his eyes closed.

Dil yeh mera bas mein nahi

Pehle kabhi aisa hota tha nahi

Hmm.. (He started thinking about their meeting in the train and then the bus scene)

Dil yeh mera bas mein nahi

Pehle kabhi aisa hota tha nahi (He remembered about the classroom scene where he was looking at her and she was also smiling looking at him)

Tu hi bata... iss dil ka main..

Ab kya karoon

Hmm.. (He remembered how he sucked the ice cream on her face)

Kehne pe chalta nahi

Kuch dino se meri bhi sunta nahi (He remembered the kiss)

Tu hi bata iss dil ka main oh huff main kya karoon

Main kya karoon Main kya karoon main kya karoon

Main kya karoon main kya karoon. (He remembered how he got jealous and then the love bite scene)

Iss dil ka main ab kya karoon main kya karoon main kya karoon

Main kya karoon main kya karoon mai kyaa karoon.

He was smiling while singing and at the same time Cabir, Nandini and Navya were in front of him looking at him. They were mesmerized with his passionate voice. He was singing so nicely. Nandini started moving closer to him unknowingly. Manik opened his eyes while playing his guitar and saw Nandini smiling at him. He again started singing.

Karta hai awaargi

Iss pe toh dhund chadhi, hai pyaar ki (He kept looking into her eyes )

Naa jane gum hai kahaan?

Baaton mein hai pada, bekaar ki

Ulti hai bat hai

Aise halaat hai

Ghalati kare ye, main bharu!

Uff dil ka kya karoon

Main kya karoon Main kya karoon main kya karoon

Main kya karoon main kya karoon.

Iss dil ka main ab kya karoon main kya karoon main kya karoon

Main kya karoon main kya karoon mai kyaa karoon.

Nandini was very close to him now. He stopped playing his guitar and kept staring into her eyes. They were so lost in each other that they forgot what was going on around them. Nandini said to herself," I love you Manik and I can see the same in your eyes." At the same time, Manik said to himself," I love you Nandini and I can see the same in your eyes." They both were smiling looking into each other's eyes. Cabir and Navya were standing and seeing them. Navya held his hand and dragged him outside.

Cabir: Kya hai madhubala?

Navya: Un dono ko akela chhodna chahiye hume.

Cabir: Oh yes! Smart han!

Navya: Wo to mai hu hi.

Navya was still holding his hand and they both were looking at each other. Suddenly Cabir realised that he was holding her hand and he lifted their hands and looked at Navya.

Cabir: Hath chhodne ka irada hai ya nahi?

Navya: Wohh.. Han. Sorry.

Navya left his hand and looked here and there to avoid embarrassment. Cabir smiled looking at her embarrassed face. Meanwhile, Manik and Nandini were very close to each other. Manik cupped her face with one hand and started caressing her face with his thumb. Nandini stood there feeling his smooth touch on her face. Manik tucked the strand of her hair behind her ear with other hand. Nandini moved her hands towards his chest and closed her eyes. Manik moved closer to her face. They both were lost in each other. At the same time, Dhruv came outside the music room. He saw Cabir and Navya there. He asked him that why were they standing outside. They looked here and there to think about something to stop him from going inside. Dhruv didn't wait and entered the music room. He was shocked to see Manik and Nandini so close to each other. Manik was cupping her face and Nandini kept his hands on his chest. Nandini's eyes were closed and Manik was moving towards her lips. Dhruv kept looking at them. Manik and Nandini didn't realise that Dhruv was there. Manik slowly moved towards her lips and their lips touched. Dhruv couldn't take anymore so he went outside the music room and shut the door with a bang. Manik and Nandini moved away with the voice and saw that no one was there. Nandini looked down blushing and Manik kept adoring her cute face.

Manik: I love it when you blush. You look so beautiful.

Nandini again blushed.

Manik: Yeah! That's what I am talking about.

Meanwhile, Dhruv acted normal in front of Cabir and Navya and then went away from their making some excuse. Cabir and Navya decided to go inside. Dhruv was walking towards his room with tears in her eyes. At the same time, Aliya was walking towards the music room with Mukti. They both saw Dhruv. Dhruv had tears in his eyes and Aliya noticed this so she told Mukti to go ahead. Aliya pulled Dhruv to a corner. Dhruv just hugged her tightly and Aliya also gave in. She rubbed his back to console him and Dhruv closed his eyes.

Aliya: Dhruv! What happened?

Dhruv: Aliya.. Wohh. Nandini..( Tears escaped from his eyes)

Aliya wiped his tears: Shh.. Dhruv don't cry. What happened? Batao mujhe!

Dhruv said to himself," Mai Aliya ko nahi bata sakta jo maine dekha wo bhi upset hojayegi. She loves Manik. Agar usey pata chalega about Manik and Nandini then she will be shattered. And Manik is my buddy and he loves Nandini. So I will tell Aliya that we won't plan anything to get me close to Nandini. I can't take away my buddy's love from him."

Aliya: Dhruv! Kaha kho gaye? Don't worry and don't cry. We will think about something and soon Nandini will be yours. It's a promise.

Dhruv: No Aliya. I don't think we should do this. She is not interested in me.

Aliya: But Dhruv.

Dhruv: Aliya. Please.

He walked away saying this and Aliya became upset. She said to herself," What the hell! Ab mai kya karungi. My plan has flopped. I have to think about something else now."

Meanwhile, Abhi also entered the music room and greeted everyone. He kept staring at Mukti and Mukti felt someone's gaze on her so she turned and saw Abhi staring at her. She gave a stern look to him and then turned around.

Mukti: Guys! Kyu bulaya music room me?

Cabir: Wo tu Manik se puch le.

Mukti: Bol nah Manik.

Manik: Woh aise hi Mukti. I just wanted to meet you all. Waise where is Dhruv? And Aliya?

Aliya: I am here Manik. But Dhruv went to his room. He seemed upset.

Manik: Why? What happened?

Aliya: I don't know Manik. He didn't tell me.

Manik: Ohh.

Manik started worrying about Dhruv. Nandini kept his hand on his shoulder and he turned around to look at her.

Nandini: Manik, Tum ja kar Dhruv se bat karo. He might need you.

Manik smiled: Ya I should go.

Saying this Manik left from there. He started walking towards Dhruv's room. He entered Dhruv's room and saw him playing his guitar with tears in his eyes. Dhruv saw Manik and gave a fake smile to him even if he knew that it was of no use. Manik walked towards him and sat with him on his bed.

Manik: Buddy kya hua?

Dhruv: Kuch nahi buddy!

Manik: Dhruv, tu kis se chupa raha hai.

Dhruv smiled: Tu kitna achese janta hai mujhe.

Manik side hugged him: After all you are my buddy! Now tell me what happened?

Dhruv: Buddy I was missing mom. Isiliye thoda upset hogaya tha.

Manik: Buddy mai hu na tere sath. So don't be upset. And I promise we will go and meet her soon.

Dhruv: Hmmm..

Dhruv said to himself," It's not the right time to tell Manik about it. I am sorry buddy jhoot bolne ke liye."

Manik said to himself," I know something is wrong with you buddy. Tune jhoot bola toh koi reason hoga but I will find out what is troubling you."

PRECAP: Dhruv notices the happiness in Manik's eyes when he is with Nandini.

Manik comes to know about Dhruv's feelings for Nandini.

P.S.: Sorry guys for posting so late. I was very busy these days. I am very sorry. Forgive me please. And read my OS. It's tittle is MaNan OS: Love confession. The link is here.

http://www.india-forums.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4364230