new ff , chap 3, pg 3, 10/30 - Page 2

Jai stared angrily at his cell phone, the battery was dead and he was lost. He had a meeting that he was supposed to be at and he seemed to have taken a wrong turn. It didn't help matters that it was pouring outside, and he couldn't find anyone to ask directions. The last three weeks had been taxing. His mother was upset, because he had refused another proposal, hell the girl was younger to him by 10 years, she had just turned 19, he wasn't going to be labeled a cradle snatcher. But, his mother, she had to be filmy, and cry for a whole day on hearing his answer, and then make matters worse, refusing to have any kind of conversation with him, and only answering him in monosyllabels. Now, he was back in the very same place, for a meeting. What more could happen?

He stared grumpily ahead, and caught sight of some kids dancing in the rain in a corner street. What the heck, he mumbled, at least he saw someone, he would just go ask them. He stopped the car and walked slowly towards them. As he neared them, he saw flashes of blue. He blinked to get a clearer view, and saw a girl laughing and dancing with them in the rain. He smiled at the sight, she looked familiar, but he couldn't place her. As he got closer, he recognized her- Bani, the same Bani, the reason for all his misery. He chuckled to himself, what luck!

He stopped near her, but she danced oblivious to the world, her back facing him. He coughed slightly and said, Excuse me, Maam. She jerked and turned towards him, looking shocked. Sorry to bother you, but I need to get to Narendra Villa. I seemed to have lost my way, could you direct me there? Bani smiled at him first, Sure, no problem, you just have to'..she suddenly stopped midway, and he saw a look of recognition flash on her face. Suddenly the look was replaced by nervousness, and of embarrassment. She lowered her eyes and tried to pull her dupatta tighter around herself. A small boy spoke up, Didi he came too far na, he said tugging at her when she didn't reply for a while. Yes, Yes, she replied nervously biting her lips. You have come too far. You need to take the second left and then at the end of the road make a right. You will see the driveway as soon as you make the turn. Jai nodded, thank you and turned to go. He heard her breathe a sign of relief. He smiled to himself and walked back to his car.

As he turned the car to go back, he found himself glancing at his review mirror at Bani in the rain. She was pulling at her scooty, and getting ready to leave. He chuckled to himself. He thought back to her dancing in the rain, so innocent, so happy and then the varied emotions on her face, when she recognized him and thought she was going to get caught. Maybe he should have told her that he recognized her, he found himself laughing to himself all the way to the meeting.

He was in a good mood when he walked in to his house, only to notice his mom waiting at the door. He looked up enquiringly at her, and she smiled at him and hugged him. Ma, he asked surprised. You went to see Bani again, I am so happy. But, you should have told me beta, we could have gone together. I also want to see the girl who has such an effect on my son. She laughed. You told me you had to go out of town for a meeting, but it was to see Bani. She let go of Jai, and smiled, tell me everything beta she said, happily. Jai took a deep breath. Ma, it's not what you think. I did go there for a meeting, and I lost my way. Bani just happened to be there and I asked her for directions. Did she say I was there to meet her? he asked suddenly angry. No, his mother replied, confused. Savitri called me up to tell me that Bani had seen you and to ask whether we had plans to come down again. I just assumed'', suddenly his mother got quiet. Mom, I told you before, she is too young for me. She seems like a very sweet and nice girl, and I am sure she would make a great wife, but just not for me. Krishna suddenly looked up at him, and then and went to her room. Jai shook his head when he heard it lock. Mom, he said and walked to the door, what childishness is this he asked irritated. I am going to stay in his room and not eat anything till you decide to see her again. Mom, please be reasonable. I want to see her personally, if I feel she is too young, I will not pressurize you anymore, Krishna replied. Mom, please he said, don't be unreasonable. Jai, I told you what I want, now you decide. Mom, mom, he called out, but Krishna wouldn't answer. Jai walked away angrily to his room.