'She is here buddy. Are you ready? Final round bas shuru hi honey wala hai!' Dhruv enquired, barging into Manik's green room, where he was getting ready for his win.
'Yeah! I am all set.' Manik gave an instant reply as he buttoned his blazer and took a last glance of his stunningly handsome, sculpted and strong reflection.
'The wait is over Manik! May you get what you have longed for.'
'Good Luck Bro!'
'All the Best Man! The title awaits you.'
Dhruv, Abhi and Cabir wished Manik the best of Luck before engulfing him in a quick group hug and then rushing out into the hall to grab their seats.
'Are You Ready?' The event Manager queried, charging into the green room with a note pad in his hand and when Manik said yes, he eyed him from head to toe and then instructed Thank Goodness! Great! Now come with me. You are second in line. Answer all the questions really sensibly. Come with me and listen carefully. You ..
Complying with good grace, Manik moved out of the green room and proceeded to the backstage, listening carefully to whatever he was being told.
All of a sudden, when they were just a few steps away from the wing, the Manager's fast pace came to an abrupt halt, the clipboard dropped down and he exclaimed Oh. My. God!" Obviously startled, Manik studied his face for a couple a seconds and asked," What happened? Are you Okay?'
'I can't breathe.' The manager wheezed, pointing his finger at someone and in the next fraction of second, Manik's brain short - circuited, his heart suffered an arrest, his lungs forgot their function and his entire body went numb as he followed the Manager's gaze and found that someone to be no one else but her, the rhythm of his heart since last three years, the wish he had been dying for, the need he had ached for, the reason for whom he was in the moment, the girl he had changed himself for, the voice in his head, the face in his eyes and the love of his Life - Nandini Murthy.
Also known as the world's most gorgeous short woman, Nandini was a New York based Indian Supermodel, Brand ambassador, a singer and a self - made magnate. Since her crowning as Miss India International and then as Miss Grand International, Nandini has walked the runway for 63 luxury fashion houses, posed for the advertisements of numerous beauty and fashion brands, graced the covers of and appeared in ten most important fashion magazines, featured in Music Videos, judged various Beauty Pageants and still does. With naturally flawless satin-soft pinkish-white skin, an exquisite, graceful body with a golden, tender heart within, features as perfect as perfect could be, a smile wide as hope and warm enough to melt down the coldest of hearts and a face as beautiful as Pure Love, Nandini was the Icon of real beauty - a woman too aesthetic to be a human and hence, the dream of every Man. Having absolutely no marks of discredit, offence or scandal on her image and without any history of affairs, boyfriends or husbands - Nandini was also the good girl of the infamous industry and her direct confession about she being a virgin and her pious belief in 'Sex after Marriage' had the entire world and the Men in it, obsessed with her ever since.
It was around 3 years back or so, during their first year in University when Manik had happened to see her for the very first time while watching a talent hunt reality show in which she had played the role of a judge. Back then, she was just a young 19-year old girl who was wise beyond her years, much mature than her age yet innocent as a babe and Manik didn't realize when he fell for her in the whole 45 minute episode. Later in the same night, he found himself googling about her and one fine morning, Cabir stumbled on Nandini's picture set as a wallpaper on Manik's phone screen while unplugging it from the charger. The boys had teased him, obviously, and when Manik spoke about his feeling on a serious note, Cabir had tagged it as mere attraction and advised Manik to take it lightly which he did or to say the truth, tried doing. No matter what he did to contain his feelings or how much control he gained over them - one glance of her or even just a thought and the feelings would again resurface and each time with a bit more intensity. There also occurred incidents, a lot of them actually, when Manik had argued and even fought with every single person he caught, heard or found bitching about her, irrespective of who they were - his soul brothers, friends or just mere strangers. His mind kept winning battles with his heart and he continued bottling it up until he saw someone else popping the question to her with a ring in hand. That one scene made mincemeat of his brain and all of its stupid logics and as he waited for her reaction and fear of losing her seeped into his veins, it dawned on him that she was more than just a passing fancy and what he felt for her was nothing less than Love.
Thanks to his royal status, Manik had all the direct doors to her and into her life open for him but he loved her so much that he didn't want to demean her by having her with the help of power and standing. He didn't want to have her with wealth, he wanted to win her with Love. And getting out of his comfort zone was the first step he took towards his dream.
From shunning all his favorite foods to trimming the obesity off his fit self to morphing himself into a chiseled, rugged Greek God - Manik had done it all with utmost sincerity and dedication. While working on himself, he had also paid equal attention to his studies and graduated with flying colors from the Harvard University as an MBA and besides pursuing Modeling, he also managed the New York branch of Malhotra Multinational Corporation as its CEO. Despite having everything needed to be at A, Manik had chosen to start it from Z and reach the top all by himself. Nailing them all with his charm, personality and looks to die for, Manik had participated in all those opportunities that came his way, from beauty contests to National Beauty Pageants and was now one of leading contestants of Manhunt International - whose final round was to be judged by Nandini and on winning which, he would be crowned as Mister Perfect, titled as a Supermodel and most importantly, would be awarded a 2-year modeling contract with her, with Nandini. It was finally the moment he had counted years, months, days, minutes and seconds for and he had sworn to name it as his by hook or by crook.
While the Manager continued to be a frozen statue, a sudden collision with a hasty crew member jolted Manik out of the daze. Having recovered from the good heart-attack, Manik began noticing her and she looked nothing less than Aphrodite in her simple street style, casual white top and blue jeans with black knee - length boots, he thought. Smitten like never before, he heaved a deep sigh and leaned against a nearby pole, clapping eyes on her pretty face. His lips twitched into a smile as he saw her brushing the fake skin of make-up that had been plastered on her face by the make-up artists off her real one, behind their backs.
'All the gentlemen out here, I advise you to hold your breaths as her comes the Woman, you all have been dying to get a glimpse of. May I please call upon stage - Ms. Nandini Murthy.'
As the host's voice echoed in the theatre, Nandini quickly thrust her personal brush into her handbag and was handing it to her P.A when her eyes fell on a sinfully hot young Man, gazing intently at her. Embarrassed on being caught in the act of staring overtly at her, Manik immediately looked away while his heart stumbled inside his chest over her soft chuckle. 'Behave Manik!' Manik scolded himself, once Nandini exited the backstage and then moved to get a glass of water for himself before the kick-start of the much awaited finale.
. . . . .
'Contestant Number 02 - Mister. Manik Malhotra.'
The host invited Manik to come on the stage and taking a deep breath, Manik straightened his back, stiffened his torso and took to the ramp, bearing himself elegantly.
'Sir your name is so kingly like you that it pains to take it just like that.'
The host spoke as Manik strutted and posed along the catwalk in fashion and while he acted by the basics of runway modelling and gave no reaction, the judges and audience smiled.
In this particular round, the contestants had to walk the ramp in evening wear i.e., formal suits and then answer a set of questions asked by the panel of judges.
As Manik stopped beside the host and stood in his signature suave posture, a photograph of the old overweight Manik displayed on the stage's screen. The audience gasped and so did Nandini when the host revealed the obese person in picture to be Manik and after discussing something with the other four members of jury, the fifth one put forward So Mr. Malhotra! You are a big name already as we all know. The world knows you and you are wealthy enough to just rest and enjoy the life for generations. You are an MBA and the heir to an established empire. Plus you have music too. Then why modelling? What made you work so hard, loose so much of weight and strive to turn into a model?'
Love!' Manik's quick, confident reply rumbled through the speakers, riveting everyone's keen attention towards himself and whetting their appetites. Wanting to know more, not about the story but about his psyche that would be portrayed through his words, the same judge requested Manik to elaborate and maintaining a balance in his attitude, he added a few details, fixing his eyes on the heart of matter herself Every human in this world harbors a special dream, runs after it all his life and stops only when that dream takes the shape of reality. But unlike everyone, I had no such dream or say a 'goal of life'. I believed I had everything until I saw her. It wasn't Love at first sight. I fell in Love with her gradually, step by step and bit by bit. And the best part is she doesn't even know that I exist because I haven't met her neither have I ever talked to her. I may sound dramatic but I am not afraid to admit that I am hopelessly in Love with her and modelling is the only road that would lead me to her. I know I could have easily got to her, considering my surname but I chose this path because she worth's more than skies, earths and seven heavens combined and I don't wish to belittle her in any way. She is the sole reason why I have changed and standing here before you all.'
Awestruck was the word for everyone except Nandini. Being an orphan and a lonely soul, she had always craved for pure, selfless Love and was probably the greatest Fan of it. She was in search of such Love - which is why she never entered into a relationship. And after listening to him, she felt happy for the lucky girl as well as jealous. But his last sentence sparked a question in her mind and switching off her emotional mode, she asked playing her part as a judge So does this mean you believe in changing yourself for Love? Do you think that she might not reciprocate if you don't look like a hunk?'
Absolutely not! As I said, she doesn't even know me. And even if she would have, I am sure she would have had no problem with my appearance. I would say again, this is my decision to take efforts.' Manik made himself clear in a calm tone and Nandini gave a smiley nod. The judges exchanged looks and then politely sent him away with a Thank You.
. . . . .
'Sorry Sorry Sorry Sorry Sorry Sorry!' Manik chanted apologetically with sorry written all over his face as he hastened into the studio, pulled a chair and sat facing her.
'Manik you know na I hate waiting. And make-up ka pura mountain face per lekar toh bilkul bhi nahi. Phir bhi you make me wait.' She complained like a baby, pouting angrily and he couldn't help smiling.
'Cute thing!' He mumbled under his breath like he always does on her cute antics and then quickly hiding his smile, he spoke I am really sorry Kitten ..
'Don't call me that!' She snapped frowning adorably and raising her index finger at him. He let out a giggle and then appeased, hooking his long finger with her tiny one Accha Baba! I won't. Don't be so angry. I am Sorry .. Nandini.'
As a matter of fact, Manik had won the pageant and as per the contract, was presently working with Nandini - shooting advertisements, sharing magazine covers, getting photographed and walking the ramp with her. 18 months had passed by and over time, after being with each other, spending most of their time together, chatting and working - Manik and Nandini had grown from formal Senior-Junior workmates into friends, thick friends, much to Manik's good. He hadn't opened his heart to her yet as he knew it would be difficult for her, like any other girl, to accept a stranger's proposal and he had absolutely no plans to get himself rejected and heart-broken. He wanted her to consider him a friend first around whom she wouldn't feel awkward, know him as a person, get familiar with his all good and wierd ways and most of all, trust him before learning about his intentions. Partying, clubbing, joking around with eachother, travelling, shopping, drinking, watching movies, irritating the life out of eachother, discussing girls, guys, dogs, turtles, zombies, maids, anything and everything, being psychos together, clicking craziest selfies, having emotional talk sessions, sharing pizzas, secrets (except the big one in Manik's case), stories of their lives, struggles, problems and guarding eachother from all the nasty shit in the world - Manik and Nandini had done them all and were undoubtedly a BFF couple, just three words away from being a couple in Love.
'Mujhe kiun manarahe ho. Jahan se aye ho wahin chalejao na. Uske pass! Your so called secret Lady Love!' Nandini muttered making an annoyed face and Manik bit back a smile at her cliche taunt.
She had asked him about her Love i.e., about herself for zillion times or maybe even more than that but obviously, he never answered and always ended the topic saying 'Will tell you on the right time!'
'Arey no! Its nothing like that. Main toh tumhare liye ghar ka khana banaraha tha. Tumne hi kaha tha na ke you are starving for homemade indian food. Cabir ki mom ayi hui hain toh unke saath milker I prepared this vegetable biryani. Bas isiliye der hogayi.' Manik explained himself, holding out a hot box, that he had brought along, before her and all her anger evaporated into thin air.
'You made this for me?' Touched by the gesture, she asked like a baby and just hugged him when he nodded.
He requited warmly, enjoying the peace he felt every time they hugged and then said, pulling away gently Don't get emotional kitten. Taste it and compliment me dher sara. Ainvayi thodi na maine itni mehnat ki hai.'
'Jerk!' Manik laughed as Nandini slapped his arm playfully, looking at him with a smile and moistened eyes and then taking the box in her hands, she dug her fingers into the biryani and began eating heartily, not giving a damn to her manicure, calorie-count and her vexed make-up man.
'Its Soo Yummy Manik!' Nandini commented like a kid with a chewy pout as he sat admiring her innocence and he just twinkled. Being a good friend, she made him also eat along with her and after getting done with their little Lunch feast and also the shoot, Manik said as he halted the car in front of her Luxurious Villa Be ready at 5:00 PM! I am coming to pick you up!'
Why? And where are we going?' Nandini gave the most expected reply, closing the car's door and bending down to look at him through the open window and he answered in perfect irony to the havoc of nervousness within him Its a Surprise!' Saying so, he winked at her and drove off, leaving her mystified.
. . . . .
Where have you brought me Manik?' Nandini enquired as he opened the door for her, offered his hand and helped her out of the car like a gentleman.
Just giving a smile in answer, Manik guided her onto a dramatic green landscape divided into two parts by a pristine river, towards a dinner table for two alongside a Gazebo with some musical instruments, set under a magnificent canopy of her favorite pale pink Cherry Blossoms.
She wasn't a stupid to not understand that the arrangements were for a dinner date, she did and that made her all the more anxious.
'Sit!' Manik solicited gently, pulling a chair for her and as she did, he streeled his chair closer to hers and took a seat on it. Her heart had already sensed and hinted her about what was coming in the near future and a whole big pot of cooked questions was already in her mind.
'Ma .. ' She began speaking but was silenced by his finger on her lips and for the first time in these months, she saw or say, noticed something different in his eyes, something that had always been in them, something so intense that she felt her skin burn with a sweet fire beneath.
'Do you trust me Nandini?'
'Yes I do!'
'Then just relax and go with the flow.' Manik eased her nerves up, tenderly stroking her hand and like always in the last 18 months, it worked. She sighed and as a smile touched her lips, he asked You liked the place?'
Like? Hell, it was the exact true copy of the dream date she had sketched in her mind and the very first sight of it had blown her mind away. But keeping it simple, she replied succinctly Its Heavenly!'
'Not more than you!' His hoarse whisper made Nandini's heart skip a beat and gave her the first shiver of Love. All the life drained out of her bones as Manik inched his face deathly close to hers and hot, thick blood seared through her cheeks - turning her features rosy - the moment his lips touched her skin.
'Manik .. ' She breathed, clutching his hand and sedately, he broke the sweet contact - his eyes dewy with the warmth of pleasure that just surged through him.
Softly raising her lashes, she met his gaze and then he said, breaking the spell of silence You always wanted to hear me sing na; so today I will fulfill your wish. Sorry for not doing it earlier. I just wanted to save it for today. I hope tumhe pasand aye. Every word of it is meant for you.' Saying so, he backed into the Gazebo and Nandini saw three other boys, Cabir, Dhruv and Abhimanyu joining him. She had met them for the first time in Manik's Birthday Bash and had grown familiar with all three of them eventually. They waved each other hellos and as they took their positions with their respective instruments; Cabir - Drums, Abhimanyu - Keyboard and Dhruv - Electric Guitar; and began with the melody - Manik too perched on a stool, taking along his guitar and started the song:
Do play the song before reading further:
[YOUTUBE]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5e-tEmlGAwk[/YOUTUBE]
Hua hai aaj pehli baar
Jo aise muskuraya hoon
Tumhe dekha toh jaana ye
Ke kyun duniya mein aaya hoon
His masterful fingers strummed the strings of the guitar and his soulful voice tugged at the chords of her heart. She was mesmerized, lost in his voice, in his eyes - in him.
Hua hai aaj pehli baar
Jo aise muskuraya hoon
Tumhe dekha toh jaana ye
Ke kyun duniya mein aaya hoon
Ye jaan lekar ke jaa meri
Tumhe jeene main aaya hoon
Main tumse ishq karne ki
Ijaazat Rab se laaya hoon
She looked at him with a start on the mention of 'Ishq' and while Cabir, Abhi and Dhruv continued to play the tune, Manik laid his guitar against the mike stand, walked upto her and once again asked for her hand. She delicately placed her hand on his palm and wrapping his fingers over her slender ones, he led her into the woods. To say she was enthralled would be an understatement to define Nandini's state when she found herself under the divine tunnel of Cherry Blossom trees, swaying ever so lightly in the breeze. While she marveled at the Mother Nature, he was entranced by her seraphic face, the red color looking so cute against her pure complexion.
Zameen se aasmaan tak hum
Dhoondh aaye jahaan saara
Banaa paaya nahi ab tak
Khuda tumse koi pyaara
The blush that had never faded, got deepened by his words and he continued, tucking an errant strand of her hair behind her ear as they mosied along the arc:
Zameen se aasmaan tak hum
Dhoondh aaye jahaan saara
Banaa paaya nahi ab tak
Khuda tumse koi pyaara
Having for comfortable with the romantic ambience, the changing equations and the Prince Charming him - Nandini improvised tongue-in cheek, taking him aback:
Baaton mein teri hain badmashiyan
Sab bewajah ki hain taarifiyaan
Smiling though, he jerked her close and sang, boring his eyes deep into hers:
Main likh doon aasmaan par ye
Ke padh lega jahaan saara
Huaa na hoga ab koi
Yahan hum do sa dobara
He drew his hand out from behind his back and presented the cutest gift that could ever be - a globe vase literally overflowing with flowers.
Main duniya bhar ki taarifein
Tere sajde mein laaya hoon
Main tumse ishq karne ki
Ijaazat Rab se laaya hoon
Awwing like a baby, she took the globe, caressed the flowers fondly and then shaped a thankyou, regarding him with a smile.
Rab se laaya hoon ..
He blinked at her in a 'pleasure-is-all-mine' gesture and tilted forward to steal another sweet peck.
Rab se laaya hoon ..
But not letting him, she pushed him away with slightest force and ran towards the serene bridge, arching over the river.
Biting his lower lip, he chased her and as soon as they slowed down and recline against railing, to make the moment all the more special - the clouds thundered and it started raining.
'Perfect timing!' Manik uttered, taking a view of the grey heavens and silently thanked them for the favor. He was expecting the downpour, of course on the basis of weather forecast, and was glad that it happened just when he wanted it to. As for Nandini - it was like a secret wish granted - a perfect scenario of which she had always dreamt, like ever girl does. Young night, low open clouds above, wet weather, flowing water below, a jungle of fragrant Cherry Blossoms around, music playing in the background and someone more than just best friend beside - she couldn't ask for anything else.
Getting rid of her 5-inch sandals and keeping the Vase safe aside, she began swirling with her arms wide open, enjoying the splash of fresh mist against her skin. Delighting in her sheer bliss, he stepped close to her and resumed with the most significant part of his song, adding all the more stars to the mood with his voice
Tu hai jo rubaru mere
Bada mehfooz rehta hoon
Tere milne ka shukrana
Khuda se roz karta hoon
He asked her for a dance and as she accepted, he wreathed his arm around her petite waist, pulled her dainty frame against his hard one and crooned, swaying slowly with her
Tu hai jo rubaru mere
Bada mehfooz rehta hoon
Tere milne ka shukrana
Khuda se roz karta hoon
In one nimble move, she detangled herself from him and ad-libbed, in somewhat arch tone:
Humko pata hai yeh nadaniyaan hain
Aawara dil ki hai aawariyan
Causing her breath to hitch, he suddenly got down on his knees before her and finally spoke the words of his hearts, plucking a heart-shaped, tiny, red velvet box from his blazer's pocket and setting it forth on his palm:
Yeh dil pagal bana baitha (plucks a heart-shaped, tiny, red velvet box from his blazer's pocket above his heart)
Isey ab tu hi samjha de (sets the box forth on his palm)
Dikhe tujhme meri duniya (looks at her with boundless Love)
Meri duniya tu banja re (opens the box to reveal a delicate ring)
Hoon khushkismat jo kismat se
Tumhe aise main paaya hoon
Main tumse ishq karne ki
Ijaazat Rab se laaya hoon
'I Love You Nandini. I Love You Very Very Much!' He confessed as all the sounds dissolved into hush except the pitter-patter of the rain drops and Nandini was rendered breathless and numb with surprise.
Unable to get a word out, she just looked on with so many questions and reading all of them, he answered, telling every truth she deserved to know Yes Nandini, I Do. I have loved you always and will love you forever. You always asked about the girl I am in Love with but I never told you about her. Because it was you yourself. You are the girl I had fallen for years back, you're the reason why I've changed myself and you're the one I was talking about on the stage that day. Its only you Nandini. Catching the first glimpse of you was a coincidence, knowing you was a choice but falling in Love with you was beyond my control. I was crazy about you, like really crazy and everyone said you are just a crush that would last for a few months but they were wrong. Months and years passed but I was never bored of you. Tumhe dekhe bina mera guzara nahi hota tha. Yet I didn't accept my feelings coz I feared, a lot of things. But then one day, I came back to my room and got to see Anderson asking you out. Us waqt mujhe ehsaas hua ke main tumhare bina nahi rehsakta, kisi aur ko tumhare saath nahi dekh sakta, that you are not my want but need. Bas, I made up my mind and then here I am. I am sorry I didn't say this earlier. I just wanted you to know me first and then take any decision.'
He said it all earnestly and Nandini was so overwhelmed that her eyes welled up. He and His eloquent eyes had everything she wanted in her man and now, she wondered how she didn't notice it earlier. From the time she wakes up every morning, the flavor of juice she has in breakfast to the last thing she does before going to bed; the size of her shoe to her favorite footwear; the number of dresses she has to the clothes she hates to wear; the cuisine she loves to the food she couldn't stand - Manik always knew it all, every bit about her and after his confession, she realized how. Like a little baby gets blank on experiencing too much happiness, Nandini too stood numb with tears streaming down her cheeks. He was the best version of Man, a cut above the rest, she concluded. One Universe, 9 planets, 204 countries, 809 islands, 7 seas and he lost his himself to her. She felt too blessed.
'Hey! Why are you crying? Don't cry please! I am sorry! I din't want to ... ' Manik freaked out on seeing her cry but shutting him up cutely, she threw her tiny arms around him and took him in a bear hug.
Smiling against her shoulder, he easily lifted her off the ground and clasped her in his arms, massaging her back gently, nuzzling her neck - letting her know, feel that she is safe, loved.
After what could be called an eternity, Nandini stirred and as they moved a bit apart, only a bit, she gave a baby punch on his shoulder and whined, sniffing like cuteness Pehle nahi bata sakte they? You know na how much I crave for Love.'
Aw Baby! Maine Sorry bola na. Please forgive me. Der aye durust aye.' Manik coaxed her, pinching her nose as he held her close with an arm around her and she smiled, putting him at rest. They remained still for a few moments, just eyeing eachother and then Manik said, genuinely Nandini! I Love You but I understand, you don't ..'
'Sshhh..' Again shushing him, this time with a touch of her finger against his lips, she spoke I am just a step behind Manik. I already love you so much as a best friend and I am sure, after today, it won't take long for me to go head over heels in love with you.' Saying so, she extended her left hand and very romantically, he slid the ring on her finger and got themselves engaged for a lifetime and beyond.
'You are the only girl in my life Nandini and you will be the last too. I won't ever leave you Nandini, even if you push me away. I will always Love you, a little more every day, no matter what. You are my Life and I will love with all my heart and soul until the final minute.' He promised with all his honesty, committing himself to her and smiling respectfully at him, she stated I trust you Manik.'
Affected by those four words, he dropped a deep buss on his forehead and then cupping her cheek with his palm, he asked for her permission Can I Kiss You?' Parting her lips but keeping mum, she just closed her eyes and taking it as a yes, he leaned and placed his lips on hers. It was magic, the way their lips connected with each other. It was pure ecstasy. His lips, so light, just brushing against hers.
For a moment, he let go of her lips, allowing her to breathe and then, captured her lips again into a more powerful, passionate kiss - sending heat to her face, butterflies to her stomach and taking her breath away all at the same time.
It was his, her and their first kiss and it was perfect. As their hesitant lips grew more comfortable, he deepened the kiss, cradling her in his arms while her hands balled up in his hair and they kissed as and until the rain poured down.
... and they lived happily ever after
The End
Okay so this story is the real love story of one of my favorite actor Arjun Rampal and his wife Mehr Jesia. He had shared it once and out of no where when I got the idea, i penned it down with MaNan in it. I hope you all liked it. If yes then hit and de comment.
Take Care
Edited by yasmeenjuhi - 9 years ago
Cricket
Debate Mansion
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2
Bigg Boss 19
Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon
Kabhi Neem Neem Kabhi Shahad Shahad
