FF: MIRAGE part 41pg53Updated 20/04 - Page 2

hi..
nice going..
grt start..
plz update soon..

Very nice FF and very interesting too! You certainly write well and I can visualize all the scenes.....please do continue! Looking forward to reading the future parts! 👏 👏 👏

THANK YOU GUYS SO MUCH FOR THE COMMENTS.THIS IS THE NEXT PART.
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Looking up at the sky he asked,"First of all where did you learn to dance like that?
"I have been in dancing schools since I could walk,"she said smiling to herself,"My family is what you would call an award winning family of dancers.Especially in indian cultural dances."
"I can see you enjoy dancing a lot,"he said holding her gaze,and smiled to himself when she looked away shyly.
"Enough about me,tell me about you.What brings you to India?"
"Mmhhmm,well my company thinks I have what it takes to improve the image of the company hence my being here."
"Woh,company....."she said,furrowing her brows in curious confusion.
"Its an advertising agency with branches all over the US in major cities."
'Oh...."she said as if realization had dawned on her,"For how long?"
"Six months."
"Mmm,so how are you enjoying your stay so far?"
"Well I just got in,but as for enjoying myself,"he took her hand in his and brought it to his lips,kissing her finger tips,"I'm having a blast!"
Giggling,she retracted her hand to push her hair behind her ear,"What about your family?"
"Aaahh,my family,"he said,lying down on the sand and lacing his fingers behind his head to cushion it,"That is a wonderful story if you have the time."
"I would like to hear it."
He raised himself up on one elbow and looked into her eyes,"Ok.My father migrated to the US from Mexico some thirty years ago with nothing save the clothes on his back and a few dollars in his pocket looking for greener pastures,no?He started doing menial jobs here and there and ended up in some bakery in Texas.Now the owner of the bakery Mr.Douglas had three lovley girls,but the last girl,Desdemona was an angel.She was fairskinned and had the most beautiful smile my father had ever seen.Kinda like yours."
He ran his finger along the contours of her chin and he could see her shudder at his touch.He wasn't quite sure what was going on but looking at this girl in the light of the moon-bathed beach was doing stuff to his psyche.
"It didnt take long for him to get into trouble for making eyes at the owner's daughter.But I guess what was meant to be was meant to be.My mother told her father that she loved my father and she was going to marry him if it was the last thing she did."
"That is so romantic."
"Now it is,but then,it was pretty hard.I mean my mother was the object of some black guy's affection until my rugged father showed up.They made his life hell.He got beat up,fired,pretty much blacklisted around town."
"That's so sad,"she said,her face falling with genuine sadness.
"Hey mi amora,he said,raising her face so that she looked in his eyes,"This was thirty years ago,its all good now."
"Doesn't make it any less painful to think about,"she said with a tint of anger in her voice.
He sat up and drew closer to her,"If i didnt know better i'd think you were there at the time.You have a lot of passion in you,"he cupped her face in his hand,dropping his lips to brush hers.
He heard her sharp intake of breath and smiled against her cheek.Pulling back,he looked her in the eye and could see that it wasn't just him,she wanted it too.He then lowered his lips to hers,to taste of that which had all but captured his thoughts since he saw her on stage.He gently sucked on her lower lip and felt hergrip tighten on his arm.Somehow he knew that this was all new to her.Funny enough,she seemed to be a natural.Gently,he laid her down on the sand and when the sea breeze blew her hair in her face,he brushed it away.
It was hard to beleive they had just met.It was like they had known each other froma past life or something."You are beautiful mi amora,"he managed to get out,his voice thick with passion.
As if in a trance,she put her hands up to cup his neck to play with the hairs on the back of his neck.
Closing his eyes,he grabbed her hands away and kissed her fingers,"Forgive me amora but if you keep that up..."
He smiled down at her and she nodded in understanding.Her heart was racing and all that just happened felt so natural to her,considering she beleived herself to be more sensible than allowing herself to be kissed by a virtual starnger.But he wasn't a stanger,he was.......she didnt know what he was to her but whatever it was,she felt comfortable with it.
He lay down next to her and put his hand under head to prop it up while she played with the bttons on his shirt.
"You never quite finished your story,"she said.
"Hopeless romantic,"he chuckled,"You want a happy ending dont you?"
"Yes,"she said laughing with him.
"Well......my parents left the town for three years.My father was a hard worker and I can vouch,being good and working hard always pays off.He was a chef and well,the both loved to cook so it wasn't long before they had saved up enough to open their own restaurant.It just kept getting better and better.Turns out there were lots of mexicans in that part of town,and where else to get homecooked food if not at Jorge's.That's my papa's name by the way."
"Jorge,"she said the name out loud,letting it roll off her tongue.
"You say that like you're mexican,"he said looking down at her while she hid her face in the crook of his neck.
"Few months later,my mom passes out while grocery shopping and then she finds out she's pregnant with my older sister Hissela.She's two years older than I am.Married with two kids and lives right next to my papa's retaurant.As you've probably guessed,its a family business."
"Your family sound like they know how to have fun."
"Aye mami,that they do,"he said,playing with the wisps of hair along her hair line,"What's your family like?"
There was a little pause,then,"Woh...unlike you we are a little family....there is only mama,papa and me.I never had the joy of fighting with my brother or sister,only my cousins when they can visit.So I always loved coming to school where I could always be aroung people."
"You were lonely?"he said,turning on the sand so they faced each other.
"Woh,not really,"she began uncertainly,"running her hand along his cleanly shaven jaw,"Imean,my parents give me almost anything I want.But I cant share everything with them.There's things you only share with your siblings and they cannot fill that void."
"I could try,"he ran his finger over her lips.
She dropped her gaze shyly.Just then,a mighty wave hit the shore and the water burst forth and enveloped them.She squealed and jumped to her feet turning around in confusion spewing water from her mouth.She stopped to see him still on the ground,laughing at how disconcerted she looked.
"Its not funny yaar!"she daid kicking his foot.
He grabbed her leg and pulled hard to which she collapsed on the wet sand with a yelp and he immediately covered her petite frame with his body.He would have kissed her againbut at that moment,his phone which had somehow found its away from them rang.He touched his forehead to hers in mini iritation.
"I think your friends are looking for you,"she said slowly.
"Yeah,'he said,lifting himself off of her and reaching for it,"Yeah?!.....Mmmhhhmmmm....ok.....ok.....thanks!"
"What is it?"
'Brijesh and Carol have retired for the night...."
"Wait,"she sat up straight,"what time is it?"
"Its ah......10:15p.m....."
"What!!"she jumped up,"My papa is going to kill me.....its very late!"
"woah woah woah,calm down....."
'But I have to get home!"
"And so you will..."
"But i have to get a taxi now cos.."
"My friends left me the car,i could drop you off."
She stopped moving,"Will you?"
"Of course,I mean I kept you out this late its the least I can do."
"Ok,"she said.
Taking his outstretched hand,they walked over to the parking lot where and after a bit of searching found the car and were off.The streets were not so crowded as to slow them down but he drove slowly nonetheless as they were having the time of their lives.As they drove down a particular street,he looked up to see a giantic structure with glaring lights and a gate that looked like that of a fortress.The house stood alone at the end of the street.
"Who lives in that fortress?"he asked.
"Look up there,"she said,pointing to a signboard.
"Waliya mansion,"he pronounced it the way it was spelt.
He glanced at her when she went into a fit of laughter,"What's so funny?"
"Waliya nahin,Valia,"she said,"It's pronounced Valia.Thw W is pronounced V."
"I knew that."
"Of course you did,"she said indulgently,for at this time,they had turned into her street-Park road.
Stopping infront of her house which had a white picket fence,he sighed,"So what now?"
Looking down at her hands which she was rubbing together,"I dont know."
"Kiran,I want to see you again.Tomorrow if possible,"he said looking ahead at her house,"I don't know what happened tonight but....I dont regret it in the least bit....mattter of fact,"he turned t o her,"I want to biuld on it."
"You could.....call me tomorrow.....see if we can ...you know..."she shrugged.
Handind her his cellphone,she punched in the numbers and gave it back to him,"I better go in before my parents get more frightened than they already must be."
"I will call you tomorrow."
So saying he reached over and kissed her forehead.Smiling,she stepped out of the car and started to walk away,then turned around,"You remember the routes I told you to take right?"
"Yes,"he smiled at her anxious face,"Just get home already."
"Call me when you get to the hotel."
"Will do."
Shaking her head in an okay,she turned and went up the stairs to the front door as he started the car,reversed and drove off.She watched the car retreat and exhaled deeply.
"Ab kya hoga?"she said to herself,just before the door opened to reveal her mom,"Hi mama!"

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Will stop here for now.Comments please!! 😊

HELLO EVERONE.I WILL BE OUT OF COMMISSION FOR ABOUT TWO WEEKS SO I THOUGHT TO LEAVE YOU PEOPLE WITH SOMETHING.HAPPY READING.
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They did see each other the day after that,and the day and the day and the day after that.Soon the days rolled into weeks and the weeks rolled into months and before they knew it,he had to leavefor the US for a week to touch base with the home company.He had put off telling her until the last moment sothat she had less to worry about his leaving but it didnt seem to be doing much good.
"I have to go my love."
"No you dont,"she said forcefully,"You have a choice.You can stay if you want to but no,you choose to leave me here and go."
"Don't talk like that my love,"he said,trying not to show how her reaction was affecting him,"It's not like I wont be coming back at all.Its only going to be for a few days..."
"One weekis not a few days,"she said in frustration,turning away from him,"What if they have asked you to come back because they want to send someone else over her...or what if they need you to come back cos they have shortened the programme or what... what if... "
He took her in his arms and held her,as her pent up frustration had turned into body wracking sobs.Closing his eyes to stop his own tears from falling,he just held her.He could not find the words to comfort her as he knew there was nothing he could say that would salve the hurt she was feeling right now.He had been apprehensive of this very moment when he would tell her he had to go.
"You dont have to go,"she said against his shoulder,"You cant go."
"Shhhh,"he aid,running his hand up and down her back in an effort to calm her down.
He had known it would be difficult to tear himself away from her but this was proving to be worse than he had expected.He had grown so having her as a part of his day that having to go one full week without her was pure torture.He loved her.....it had struck him one day when he was waiting to see her and she had shown up with a small cut on her forehead and he had all but freaked out.
She had tried to calm him,explaining she had only walked into the door as she didnt know it was locked.It was no big deal but he had insisted she go to the doctor just in case.He had made sucha fuss that when she complained for the umpteenth time about dragging her to the doctor he all but shouted,"I cant lose you because we didnt take all necessary care!!"
He had stopped the car off the highway.Gripping the steering wheel until his knuckles turned white.
Shocked,she gently touched his hand,"Carlos?"
No answer.
"Carlos...talk to me,"she said,panic creeping into her voice,"Carlos!!"
He slowly opened his eyes and looked at her.He slowly cupped her face in his hand and said,"I cant lose you my love.I...I love you."
Tears formed in her eyes as she looked at him,seeing it in his eyes and knowong that what he said was true.Putting his arm around her shoulder,he gathered her to him and held her tight.She felt the quickened pace of his heart and though she was happy that he had proclaimed his love for her,she was a little scared as well.Never before had she experienced this kind of passion in connection to love.
Pulling back,she wiped the tears from her eyes and said,"I love you too."
They didnt go to the hospital but if she so much as complained about a headache he would show up.It was like a dream to her.He woke her up every morning as was their norm.Calling each other at all hours was a part of everyday life and at this very moment,all he could console himself with was the fact that he would always talk to her.
"Shhh mi amora,you know how much it hurts to see you hurt like this."
She sniffled,still jolding on to him as the wind whipped through her hair and cooled her burning skin.She would have to find a way to exist without him for a whole week.It was not as if she was inuniverity as to say that the school work would distract her--she would pine,she knew.But she just prayed to find a way to go on.



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She had gone with him to the airport and amidst a lot of crying and hugging had seen him off to the boarding terminal.As she drove back home,she couldnt help but cry all over again.He had promised to call as soon as he landed in the US no matter the time of day.She got home and went straight to her room.She wouldnt eat that night and was awake almost all through the night and in the wee hours of the morning her phone rang.quickly she picked it up.
"Hello....hello....carlos?..say something yaar!!"
"Calm down will you?"he said with a smile in his voice,"I just wanted to hear how much you missed me."
At that she burst into tears.
"Come on my love,dont do this to me again,"he said,kicking himself for making her cry,"Kiran...."
"I'm sorry,"she sniffed,"I'm sorry."
"Did you sleep at all?"
"No,"she giggled through the tears,"Did you?"
"Not much.I carried you in my heart and thinking of you kept me awake."
"Good!"
He laughed at that.She certainly was something,this girl.Stole his heart first chance she got and was making no apologies about it.
"Get some sleep Kiran.I want you well rested for tomorrow."
"Its already tomorrow here duffer."
"Then get some sleep either way,"he said,"I dont want you so tired that you walk inot another door."
She laughed at that.He had never let her forget that incident as it had givenhim a reason to tell her how he felt and not be ashamed of it.
"Ok."
"Get some rest.Good night."
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They had been apart three days now and it was not as bad as she had thought it would be.Her parents for one hadbeen giving her extra attention and asking funny questions like who was she dating and the like.She wasn't quite ready to tell them about Carlos yet,mainly because he wasnt indian and herfather for all his education was not as openminded as a modern man should be.
It was a teusday and she was looking forward to the weekend as C arlos would return on sunday.She was going to see her friend Malini when her mother stopped her.
"Kiran,kahan ja rein hai?"
"Malini ka ghar hai.kuch kaam ta?"
"Jaldi aao na."
"Kyun?"
"Yeh kya?"her mother said,"Cant I ask you to come home early anymore?"
"Ok mama.I'llbe home early."
So saying,she left home for a visit with her friend.Malini was always teasing her but she didnt mind because she was in love and not apologising for it.
"When is he coming back?"Malini asked.
"Sunday,"she said,and blushed furiously,"Oh Malini I just cant wait.We have only been apart three days and already I want to be with him so badly."
"Do your parents know?"
"What do you think Malini?I am ready to commit suicide?"she rolled her eyes at her friend,"Papa would blow a gasket or something."
"So what do you intend to do?The way I see it the both of you are pretty of you are really in love and this just might be the kind of love marriages are made of."
"You think I havent thought about that?"she said,worrycreasing her forehead,"I dont know what to do,my friend.I cant imagine a future without him...but I cant imagine my parents accepting him either."
"Listen to me Kiran.If push comes to shove,you are going to have to make a choice.what is more important to you?Your happiness,or your parents approval."
Her eyes widened in shock.If her parents didnt approve then it would mean a rift between them and she didnt know that she could live with that.
"My goodness,you never actually thoguht of that?"Malini asked incredulously,"Kiran..."
She held up herhands to stop her friend.It was enough reality check for one day,"It is food for thought Malini,but i hopeit never comes to that."

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Later that evening,her mother came into her room with a new lehngha with a matching top in white and pale blue.
"Wow mama,its beautiful!!"she exclaimed,admiring it.Then she stopped,"Kuch khas tha?"
"You'll see,"her mother said with a knowing smile.
"What are you hiding from me?"she was suspicious now.
"You'll see,"her mother said striding out the door.
Shrugging,she quickly slipped into the outfit.It was a perfect fit.Smiling to herself,she beganto apply make up.She never used much as she knew her natural beauty did not need enhancement.She heard the doorbell at exactly seven on the dot and began to hurry downstairs.
Her parents were greeting people downstairs and as she came down the stairs,all eyes turned to look at her.
She saw her father smile in pride,"Kiran beti,aao na,"he had his hand outstretched.
She greeted them warmly and only then did she notice that both parents had a boy behind them and he was smiling at her like he knew her.She greeted him too and they proceeded to the living room.The parents wee catching upon old stories while they just looked at eachother.She couldnt shake the feeling that she knew him but couldnt for the life remember where from.
After about ten minutes,heleaned forward and said,"Twinkle dinkle little star,up above the world so high..."
A light bulb went on in her head,and she slowly began to recite,"How i wonder what you are...like a diamond in the sky,"she completed the rhyme and frowned,staring at him openly,then she gasped,"NISHIKANT!!"
Everyone started laughing.Taking of her shoe,she jumped to her feet and started chasing him round the sitting room,"Baatnameez!!How dare you show your face here....just wait till I get you u idiot!pagal...."
"Aunty,stop this crazy girl from chasing me,"he said,laughing at her as she chased him,clearly enjoying himself.
"Aare Kiran,shant ho jao,"her father said,getting to his feet to stop the tom foolery,"You are seeing your friend after a long time and all you can do is chase him with a slipper?"
"Papa,woh duffer hai na..."
"Rehne di jiye,"he said,smiling indulgently.
She went back to her seat in a huffand plopped herself down on the chair,angrily crossing her hands over her chest.
"Beti,Nishikant has come all the way from London just to see his childhood friend,"her father said.
"Toh?"she said stubbornly.
"Why dont you two go outside and talk?"
"OOh,why not?"she said sweetly,"This way please."
She said and led him to the garden.No sooner had he stepped out than she began hitting him.He finally managed to catch her hands.
"At least stop now,you must have had enough revenge for the last twleve years!"
She forcefully pulled her hands away and almost lost her footing to which he caught her and held her close.She stopped struggling and looked up to find him gazing at her,with something in his eyes she couldnt quite fathom.The wind tossed her hair in her face and he gently reached up to brush it away and tuck it behind her ear.She wasnt aware how long they stood in that position until another gust of wind hit them did she reaslise how close to himshe was and gently broke eye contact,and move away to the seat next to the rose bushes.
He came and sat next to her and pushedher with his shoulder,in an effort to lighten the air,"Billi"
"Cuta,"she said in reflex,and they both laughed.
It was indeed a pleasant conversation with him.She had left when she was five.He was twelve at the time.He had tried to teach her twinkle twinkle little star but she always got the rhymes wrong.He used to tease her so badly then and had grown into a fine young man.Very goodlooking too.
Her parents called them in for dinner and it was a wonderful affair.They hadnt wanted to stay too long but ended up staying until it eleven p.m.
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Later that night,her mother was brushing her hair and asked her,"So how was your talk with Nishikant?"
"Duffer,"she said,"He's funny.It was nice to see him after all these years."
"Really?"
"Of course,"she said,"You know he always wanted to come home?Thought the weather in Britain wasnt suited to him andwould rather come home.I admire him.And he is ready to getmarried yaar!He will make a fine husband someday soon."
Her mother smiled,"Yes,he will."

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PARDON ME IF I STOP HERE FOR NOW.KNOW THAT THE WALIAS COME IN IN THE NEXT TWO PARTS.COMMENTS PLEASE 😉

HEY GUYS I'M BACK FROM MY HOLIDAY!!!NOTICE I DIDN'T GET MANY COMMENTS BUT WELL I HOPE YOU LIKE THE NEXT PARTS....AND PLEASE COMMENT!



Kiran woke up with a bad feeling.It had been two days since Nishikant and his parents had come to the house.She didnt know why but it was niggling at her.She got out of bed and pulled back the shades and let the sunshine pour in.
She inhaled deeply and slowly made her way to the bathroom.After a hot shower she picked up her phone and called Carlos.He picked up on the fourth ring and answered with a,"Hello gorgeous."
She smiled,"You're still up?"
"Was waiting for your call."
"Sun is rising."
"What does it look like?"
"Amazing,"she said on a content sigh,"You should see it."
"In a few days my love,in a few days."
"Guess what?"
"You've got white hair?"
"Ha ha very funny,"she said drily,"I met a friend of mine I hadnt met in a really long time and he is still as obnoxious as he was when I was little.Teasing me about the way I used to sing twinkle twinkle little star."
"Sounds like a good friend."
"He is,"she said,"At least now I have someone to keep me company until you return."
"Yeah just dont get too close to him,"Carlos said,sitting up in bed,"Dont like the sound of this guy already."
Kiran was laughing,"Why Carlos,she said slowly,"Are you by any chance jealous?"
"Me?!"he spat indignantly,"Never......all i'm saying is for you to be careful.I mean I'm not there to protect you."
"From my childhood friend."It was more of a statement than a question.
"Well thats what the guy next door who helps mow the lawn turns into when you say no to his advances.I watch discovery,"he said matter of factly.
She laughed heartily,"Oh my love,you never seize to amaze me."
"I hope I never do."
There was a comfortable pause,"Ok my dear,let me let you go to sleep.I'llcall you later tonight?"
"No,I'll call you later tonight.Its my turn to return the call."
"Ok,bye now.And be good!"
"Promise."
He cut the call and smiled at the ceiling.It was like magic.He had come home and could not stop talking about her.His parents had seen her pictures and watched videos he had made of her and had instantly fallen in love with her free and daring spirit.They wanted to talk to her and get to know her as they had never heard their son talk about any woman like this ever!!He had however refused as he knew his family could make a person feel really overwhelmed sometimes.Not a malicious bone in their body,they sometimes came off too strong.Theirs was the kind of bond that was borne of years of fighting and making up as well as growing up.Ultimately,he was going to let them talk to her before he left.They knew he was serious about her but were worried about how young she was and again,her parents.She would need their consent and again,marrying and outsider was a big deal,going by what they,his parents had had to go through.He just wished he had the answers to that but that would take some doing.He hoped everything would work itself out because he could not imagine having to live without her.This separation was killing him.But all was well that ended well.Right?
He turned over,stretched and proceeded to go to sleep.Busy day tomorrow.



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Later on that evening,her parents again told her to come home early as Nishi and his parents were coming again.She was excited at hearing that.Her mother got her a new salwaar kameez of deep red and gold and she was over the moon.When she was ready and got down,she was surprised to see more guests than she had expected.There were about fifteen people in the room and she wondered at the decorations.Shrugging,she went to welcome Nishikant and his mother.
Looking at his outfit,she said teasingly,"Aren't you a little overdressed for dinner?"
"That remains to be seen,"he said giving her a knowing look.
"What....what was that look?"
"Nothing,"he said and walked away upon hearing his mother calling him to introduce him to someone else.
The evening progressed cordially and at exactly 8:00p.m. her father took the microphone and began to address the gathering.
"Ladies and gentlemen I would like to welcome you to this intimate gathering of friends.I have called you all here for a specific reason and it is one that makes a father proud.Its not everyday he gets to give away a priced jewel after having kept it for so long,"he said looking at his daughter,"Kiran,please come."
Starting to feel uneasy,she walked to her father's side and into his embrace."I count myself most lucky to be alive to see the day I get to give my daughter away to a trusted friend who I know will take good care of her."
At this point the hairs on the back of her neck stood ramrod straight,her eyes slowly widened in shock as realization dawned on her.This was her engagement party!!She looked from her mother's smiling face,to Nishikant's,to his parents,at all the guests and then toat her father.She saw how proud he was and how happy and was totally numb!
"What is happening?,"she thought to herself,knowing she could not react and cause a scene.
"Nishikant beta,idar aao,"he said and taking his hand and Kiran's hand,he joined them and said,"Kiran,I know this is coming as a shock to you but we have been aware of Nishikant's feelings for you for a long time and have decided not to delay a good deed anymore.So we have decided to get you engaged."
All she could do was stare,for any words she could have spoken were tied up in her throat and just wouldn't come out.She went into auto-pilot.Her father say her down on the decorated chair next to Nishikant and the rings were brought and in a daze,she exchanged them with Nishikant.
Immediately after the exchange,a dancing troup appeared from nowhere and started dancing to "Saajan ji ghar aayi" from Kuch Kuch hota hai.


At the table,she couldn't eat a thing.Shewas being teased at every turn and it was getting unbearable.All she could think of was Carlos.......she needed him right now!all this was too much for her.She somehow got through dinner and at some point,Nishikant dragged her outside for some quality time.
"Uff,I am so glad to be away from all those people!Too muchtalkand questions and answers and it was plain getting on my nerves."
No answer.
"You know,you haven'tspoken a word since the announcement."
No answer.
"Well....Kiran,"he said,squatting in front of her and taking her hands in his,"Kiran,are you alright?Are you okay with this union?"
She had been staring intently at the grass in front of her and then raised her eyes to him and said,"I'm sorry Nishikant,but I cant marry you."
He froze."What?"
"Look Nishikant,I don't understand how you could go along with this whole thing without talking to me first.The truth of the matter is.........I'm in love with someone else...and that is who I am going to marry."
He slowly rose to his feet,looking at her like she had sprouted horns,"What are you saying?"
"Its simple Nishikant,"she said,her face set in determination,"No one asked mehow I felt about this whole situation.How can you just waltz into my house and the next day I am getting engaged to you?!What on earth possessed you to go through with this?"
Speechless.
"I'm sorry I have to hurt you like this but it will be worse for me to allow you to see dreams that will never materialize.I will find a way to talk to my parents but this much is set in stone.I cannot marry you."
So saying ,she walked away and didn't turn back.Nishikant stood there shocked.It was his turn to be speechless.


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Later on that night after the last guest had left,her mother came into her room and sat down beside her.
"Well my dear,how was the surprise?Look,I know that we sprung this on you all of a sudden but I knew you would take it in stride.I am so happy that this day has come and Nishikant and you can finally form a relationship and solidify what is between the Dixits and us.I..."
"I'm sorry mama,but you should have asked me before taking a huge decision like this which affects my life as well as my future."
"Iknow my child but....."
"But nothing mama,"she said turning away from her mother and going to stand by the window,"You and Papa have taken your decision about my life without consulting me,so hear my own decision.I cannot and will not marry Nishikant."
Her mother gasped,"Kiran,what are you saying?"
"I am simply asying mama,that I cannot marry Nishikant and have already told him the same."
"B...B...But why?"
"Because mama,"she said raising her chin defensively,"I am in love with someone else."
A movement in the doorway caught her eye and she turned fully to see her father standing in the doorway,his face a mask of surprise,anger,hurt and disappointment.

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And it had gone downhill from there.The house had become a battle field between father and daughter.The matter was made even worse when her father found out the man she loved was not even indian.He all but hit the roof but Kiran couldn't care less.She dug her heels in too and refused to give in.The Dixits were blissfully unaware of the turmoil in the house as each party put on a brilliant show as to getting along just fine.
Somehow she found the strenght to not tell Carlos and to wait until he gotback to break the horrible news to him.She had gone to the airport to welcome him and he could immediately tell that something was wrong.She took him to the place where they had first met and broke the news to him.Words could not describe his pain and fear.He was angry that she did not tell him sooner,but promised to find a way to resolve the situation.
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Days had turned into weeks and weeks into months and two months later,here he was....married.He turned again from the window to look at the sleeping form of his wife.He made a vow then and there to never let her come to harm or suffer any king of pain.She was his jewel and he always keep her that way--shining.

I JUST WANT TO ACKNOWLEDGE AND THANK DIVAN FOR THE SUGGESTION.I'LL DO MY NEXT PART NOW COS I HAVE TO HIT THE BOOKS IN TWO HOURS!!

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GENERATION LEAP......................18 YEARS LATER......



Kiran came to the door and knocking gently,turned the knob and pushed the door open.As usual,the bed was a mess and looked very well slept in and the occupsnt still very much in the bed.She stood in the doorway and looked at her daughter.
They grew up so fast,she thought to herself,it was only yesterday that she was teaching her to walk and say mama or papa...and today she was about to graduate from highschool,top of her class,valedictorianand with just about any kind of award you could come up with.She was too proud of her daughter.
She heard a shuffling sound behind her and turned to see her son Tarun coming up behind her.
"Morning beta,"she smiled.
"Morning,"he said,his voice still grovelly from just waking up.
"How did you sleep?"
"Beautiful.What's going on?"
"I was just thinking about your sister....and now i'm thinking about you too."
He inclined his head in expectation.
"I was just thinking that today is the beginning of the rest of your lives.Its a whole new world beta."
Tarun just hugged his mother from behind and she reached way up,to cup his chin in her hand.
Almost immediately the front door banged open and Kiran sighed,knowing exactly who it was.
"Kiran aunty!!"came the yell from downstairs,"Good morning!!"
"Lo,aao gaya,"shesaid to Tarun.
Bounding up the stairs was Micheal Montgomery,friend,family friend and bestfriend.It was a morning ritual for him to always drop by at the Santoro's.
"Tell me she is isn't still in bed,"he said kissing Kiran on the cheek and pumping Tarun a hi-five."Okay sleeping beauty,up you go!!"
He pulled back the blanket on the bed to revealthe occupant,who rather than get up,further curled herself up into a ball and muttered,"Go away."
"If you don't get up I'll drench you."
"Micheal,only a few minutes more,"she groaned,hiding her face under her pillow.
All was still for a moment and then thenext thing she knew she was being crushed by a tin of flesh.
"Umph!Micheal!!"she screamed,"You get off me right this minute!!"
Throwing away the pillow,she pushed until he fell off the side of the bed.
"And stay down!"she yelled.
Tarun and Kiran stood laughing in the doorway.This was the same ritual that occurred every morning with these two.Best of friends for the past eleven years.Theirs was a bond that over time had been established was not ever going to break.It was a relationship borne out of a life and death experience and something like that was going nowhere.
Pushing away the hair that had fallen across her face she looked in indignation,"Why did you let him into my room?"she asked her mother and brother.
"I was going to come in anyway,"Micheal said,shrugging at her question.
"And a goodmorning to you Bani,"Kiran said,"Now get up,we have a busy day ahead of us."
"You heard your mother,now up!"Micheal said adopting the sergeant pose,"It is a big day for you and Tarun and you won't want to keep him waiting on you now would you?"
"Whatever,"she said,pushing herself off the bed and walking into her bathroom.
Banging the door behind her,she walked to the sink and stretched in front of the mirror.She looked at herself and concluded she didnt look too bad when she woke up from sleep.
She was a girl of 5"5,her skin was a rich honey glazed cream owing to her mexican heritage and she was full figured as she had inherited her grandmother's african attributes.She had huge brown eyes like her mother,set aside and slanted to give her a catty but sultry look,full lips which had a natural pink glow and a cute little nose.Her hair was jet black and people often argued that she put something in it to make it glow so much.She had given up trying to convince them otherwise.Grabbing her toothbrush,she began the morning ritual of brushing her teeth,hitting the shower and then getting dressed.
As her mother had said,it was a busy day and the most important of her high school year.She was graduating and soon she would be going to Princeton.She was ready for her speech,but what gave her an adrenaline rush was her performance which the school had come to expect from her at every school function,in and sometimes out of school.The indian community in California was always excited every time they had a celebration as they could just as easily been in india celebrating the festivals.She put in the extra touches of home whether she was singing,dancing or reciting a poem by a famous writer.Needless to say to say,most of the mothers had been trying to push their sons on her but she wasn't having it.


She came down the stairs and to the smell of coffee and waffles.
"Morning mama,"she said,"Again."
"Morning."
"Ey duffer,"she said to Micheal.
"You clean up nice,"he said giving her the once over.
She slapped him over the side of his head as her mother put the waffles in front of her.
"How are you doing?"her mother asked.
Knowing fully well she was referring to the graduation ceremony as well as her performance after wards,she simply shrugged and said,"I'm fine mama.No worries."
Tarun came down,"Morning didi."
She raised her chin to accept his peck,"Morning my love.Ready for our big day?"
"Are you kidding me,I so want to get it over with,"he said dramatically.
"Like hell,"Micheal snorted,munching down on a waffles,"You lived for every second of it."
"On the court maybe,"he said,settling down to do justice to the food.
"Enough,"Kiran said,"Now finish off you food.We have to be on campus by 10a.m."
She walked into the sitting room and straight to the king-size picture that hung on the wall and gazed lovingly at it.
"Morning my love,"she said,"Its our children's big day today.They are graduating.Both of them with honours.You know,Tarun is getting a basketball scholarship and Bani,"she said shaking her head,"Woh ladki hai na,she's got a scholarship too.She is going to do business administration as a major and advertising as a minor.She is fulfilling all her promises to you.Watch over them Carlos."
So saying,she adjusted the garland across the photo,ran her finger along the side of his smiling face with a sad smile on her face.
Behind her,Bani watched her mother walk away and thought sadly,"Papa,even today mama still misses you so much.Its been six years and she still acts as though you went on a trip and she is still waiting for your return.I want her to be happy Papa,but she won't listen to reason.Oh God,you need to help her."
Micheal came up behind her,"It's amazing how much she loves him even today."
"He's my father,and I love him too.But it is time for her to move on.She's only thirty three.It's never too late to start over.Sure it might be difficult but my mother is strong.Through out the chemo and all that came with the cancer she was strong,she was there for him.He asked her to make sure she found someone who could take care of her....just not as well as he did."
A sad smile played over her lips.It had been difficult for her mother to be separated from her grandparents back in India but her grandparents here had more than made up for that...though it was never the same.
There was an uneasy truce between her mother and her grandfather as he had had a stroke when she was six and her grandmother had called her mother to come home.It was a while before he had actually spoken to her but at least they were talking.She had spent a month in India and had gotten him to talk to Carlos too.It was more than she could hope for so she didnt push her luck with him.Her father had been over the moon,for he knew how important it was for him to be accepted by her parents,if not wholeheartedly then at least on some level.
She had come back happier than ever and since then talked to her father as much as she could.He adored his grandchildren,that was for sure because he could go on for hours on the phone with them.They had gone to see him when they were twelve.He was like a kid when they were around.
"Maybe we should talk to granps and grandma.They will know what to do,"Tarun said,hating to see the look in his sister's eyes.Her sadness always rubbed off on people around her.You just naturally felt her pain.
"That never did any good,"she sighed.
"We'll think of something,"he said,hugging her,"Now come on.We got graduation."


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MUMBAI,INDIA


"Krishna,its been at least half an hour.Where is Jai?!"Uday Walia bellowed into the phone.
"Calm down Uday,there must be traffic and that is why he late."
"If he hadn't spent the night trying to get into some floosie's pants,he would be here right now!"Uday bellowed,"If I have to..."
"Relax papa,I'm here now."
Turning to the doorway,he saw his son standing in the door way.He looked impeccable as always...he never wore a tie.Said the darned things made him feel geeky.He loved black suits,it gave his 6"3 frame a more imposing presence than he already had.He was a big man,just like his father and at twenty eight,he was a hard man.He neither showed emotion or feelings and when he meant to destroy,it was total annihilation.He worried about his son sometimes and at times he had given up hope that this once lovable man would ever have a heart again.
"Jia ..."he began.
"I know papa,"he said striding into the office,"This meeting is more important to them than it is to us so if I had been an hour late they would still be here."
"That does not give you the right to treat them like this Jai,have a heart for goodness sake,"Uday said looking at his son who dropped himself into the seat across from his father.
Jai shrugged nonchalantly,it really wasn't his problem,"Ready then?"
He raised his brow in question to his father,who shook his head and rose to accompany his son to the board room where the delegates from a company they were buying sat nervously,hoping they could make a good bargain.
As he walked in,Jai put on his poker face that never gave anything away,"Morning gentlemen.Shall we get down to business then?"
Papers rustled and they began the negotiations.Triumph coursed through his veins.Nothing excited him more than making a killing like this....reducing his opponents to nothing but a pile of dust.A sadistic smile curved his lips as he gazed around the table of nervous men.For his father's sake,he would go easy on them.
He cleared his throat and they sat up straight.He loved to see people jump.
This is living,he thought to himself,and I'm loving it!

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OKAY GUYS I'LL STOP HERE.COMMENTS PLEASE!! 😊

Great updates.
liked it.
awwww...Carlos died...no this is not good....didn't like that one bit.
Bani and Tarun brother sister and their best friend Micheal...great....like their little nok-jhok.
ooowww you introduce Walia family and Jai in the end...sounds interesting.
plz cont. soon

hmmmmm..... nice update..
bani.tarun.micheal that trio was really nice...

THANKS FOR THE COMMENTS GUYS.
SORRY ABOUT CARLOS RIDHI....DIDN'T LIKE HIM DYING EITHER.HERE'S MY NEXT PART!!!!!!


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BACK IN AMERICA........


They were in Micheal's car driving up to Madison High,singing along to Liknin park's In the End.they were having a blast but Kiran was covering her ears.
"I dont know how you people can listen to this kind of music...its so loud."
"That's how its supposed to be mom,"Tarun said waving his hands dramatically,"Its rock."
"That's why your generations so angry.All they do is scream at you and call it music.While I was growing up...."
"We know,we know,"Bani said dryly,with a roll of her eyes,"You listen to classical music and sand along,and danced along and bla di bla bla bla."
"Don't take that tone with your mother,"Micheal said,smiling as this was the same ritual they went through almost every time the kids played loud music she really didnt like.
"Nervous?"he asked Bani.
"Always,"she said,"You should ask Tarun if he's nervous.The solo is quite tasking."
"I'm all about perfection didi,you should know that by now."
He was a star basketball player but the truth was he loved to dance too.He really made quite a sight to behold when they went salsa dancing.They had dubbed this show Fusion as it was a mix of the way their different ethnic components came together to make them up.All their back up dancers were already at school calling and hurrying them up.His team mates had given him a hard time about his love for dancing but when they realized that it seemed to draw more girls to him than from him,a few of them started taking lessons.It was laughable actually,to see a 6 footer whirling a girl around the floor and doing the shaking his hips alongside his sister...but he did make an all black ensemble look good on the dance floor.
Tarun was your typical all american athlete with the looks to go with it.He was the same age as his sister and knew he was adopted.It was a weird but heartwarming story.His mother had been left pregnant and alone by her boyfriend at the time and she had gone through a difficult pregnancy.She knew she wouldn't be able to take care of him and give him all that he deserved as she had run away from home in a show of rebellion.Ironically his father was white and his mother mexican.

~~~~~~~~~FLASHBACK~~~~~

His biological mother had been in the same shopping mall as Kiran and Carlos and had overheard then talking about the fact that Kiran could not have anymore children after she fell in the shower during her ninth month and bruised her womb.She had followed them home and seen where they lived.She began watching them for about a month and after having satisfied herself that they would take good care of her son,she went to a lawyer.
Kiran was in a supermarket and after a whole hour of shopping,she was exhausted and was heading toward the countet when this frail looking woman came up to her.
"Excuse me ma'am,"she said,her eyes really pleading with Kiran,"Could you help me."
Giving her a curious look,"Sure,what can I do for you?"
"Well...I...the thing is that I have to go get my credit card from my other purse...and its in my car."
"OOkkayyy,"Kiran dragged the word because for some reason,her sixth sense was telling her that something wasn't right.But the almost frantic look in the woman's eyes made it impossible for her to say no,"How can I help?"
"Could you hold my son?Please,I promise I'll be right back.My car is right across the road."
"Your baby?"Kiran was aghast,"I can't do that....."
The lady got desperate,"Oh please...I don't mean to intrude or cause you discomfort....I just need to get my purse,please!"Looking around she asked Kiran,"You're a woman like me.Would you give your child to a man?You've obviously just had a child so I thought he would be in better hands if I left him with you for just a minute.I..."
"You know I had a child?"Kiran was taken aback.
The woman rocked back on her heel and gave Kiran a knowing look,"Take it from one who's just given birth too,you've still got the pregnancy fat on your face.But it suits you."
Kiran smiled at that,her heart warming a bit.Then her gaze shifted to the small bundle in the woman's arms,"Is that him?"
"Yes,"she said,obviously relaxing.
"He's so small,"she said,looking at the sleeping child.
"My angel,"the woman said,then as if realizing she had something to do became nervous again."Can you help me?"
Kiran looked at her again,trying to gauge her because she couldn't for the life of her understand why she was feeling uneasy.She looked at her shopping basket and at the child and said,"Okay."
Tension rushed out of the woman."Thank you so much.I promise I'll be right back."
Kiran took the woman's child and he momentarily woke up,looked at her for like three seconds and then yawned,closed his eyes and went right back to sleep on her shoulder.The woman walked to the end of the aisle and turned to look at her.There was a look in her eyes that made the hairs on the back of her neck stand.Kiran's smiled to assure the woman that her child would be fine.The woman as if finally making up her mind about whatever it was that was bothering her,gave a small wave to Kiran and turning her back,resolutely walked out the door.
Kiran stood there holding the boy,rubbing his back to make sure that he stayed asleep till his mother came.It was about ten minutes now and the woman hadn't returned.Her cell phone began to ring she knew it was Carlos calling to find out what was keeping her.Fumbling a bit with her bag for a while she finally managed to get her phone out of her bag.
"Hey honey,"she said,looking over her shoulder to make sure the baby was still asleep.
"What's keeping you my love?Its been almost an hour and half."
"Is she awake?"
"No,she's still asleep.What's going on?"
"Honey,there was this woman in the store who asked me to hold her child cos she wanted to go get her purse from her car and I agreed,but that was over fifteen minutes ago and she hasn't returned and honey,I'm really starting to get worried."
Carlos froze,"Tell me there isn't a bag on the floor somewhere."
"What?"Kiran was confused now and that sick feeling came back again."What are you saying Carlos?"
He could hear the fear creep into her voice,"Calm down my love.Just look around you,and tell me if you see a bag somewhere close by?"
"Okay,"Kiran said and started to walk towards the counter only to see the trolley the woman had been pushing had an obviously packed daiper bag and another smaller bag.
"Carlos..there's two bags in the trolley the woman was pushing....Oh my goodness Carlos what does this mean?"
She was getting hysterical now,"Kiran.....Kiran listen to me.You just stay put and I'll be there in about ten minutes.You hear?"
"Carlos I'm scared,"she said looking around,feeling she was being watched.
"Kiran,calm down and i'll be right there.You hear,just give me ten minutes."
"Okay."
She hung up and the fear was evident in her eyes.An attendant came up behind her,"Excuse me?"
She gasped and whirled around,"What?What do you want?"
The attendant looked at her strangely,"Well i was just wondering ma'am,if you needed any help?"
"I'm fine,"she said her eyes wide and a very scared,"Just fine.Don't need help."
"Okay then,"he said,still giving her a weird look,thinking to himself that he had to deal with all kinds of crazy people in this store.
It was like forever and finally she heard her name behind her and she turned,"Oh Carlos...Thank God!i have been so scared."
He hugged and kissed his wife,"I'm here now.Just calm down."
"I knew I shouldn't have taken the child from her.I knew there was something wrong with her asking me to hold her child but she knew I had just given birth and ........."
"Calm down Kiran,its okay.You've done nothing wrong."
"Why would she do something like this to a little child?"the tears were falling freely now.
"Well,lets see whats in the bag."
He opened the woman's bag and began to search it.He came up with a letter addressed to the holder.Glancing at a shaken Kiran,he ripped open the letter and began to read.
"What does it say?"she said impatiently,"Carlos?CARLOS?!"
He slowly looked up at her,"Her name is Lola.And apparently,she has willed her son to us."
Kiran's eyes widened,then when the full realization hit her she gasped,"What!"
As if sensing the tension in her,the boy woke up and made a suckling sound.They both looked at him.He looked from one to the other and just blinked.
"Oh Carlos what are we going to do?"Kiran had a look of total despair on her face.
"Look Kiran,there's not much we can do as its already late.My guess is his mother will hang around to see what we do so why don't we take him home first and then see what happens."
"What if she comes back?"
He looked in his wife's eyes and saw that she desperately wanted him to tell her that the mother of this child would come back for her child.
"I'm sorry Kiran,but if she was going to come back she would have."
Tears welled up in her eyes.This could not be happening.She had come to get her monthly groceries and was now going home with an unexpected buy--a baby boy.This was not how she had seen her day playing out.Not by a long shot.Carlos had left their daughter at home with his mother,and to show up with another child that wasn't theirs...this was all bizarre.
On the way home the boy began to fuss.She just looked at him,wondering what to do.When they got home,imagine the surprise on his mother's face as Kiran told the bizarre story.
"Well,nothing to this night but to take care of the baby,"she said matter of factly to Kiran,and by the way i think he did a doodle so he'll need a change.Give him here."
She took the boy and went into the room where her grand-daughter was and began to change the boy's daiper.Carlos immediately got on the line and called his friend who was a lawyer and asked him to come over as soon as possible.
Kiran watched her mother in law change,bathe and dress the baby in clothes provided by his mother.
"There you go young man,good as new,"she beamed at the baby,who looked at her like he had never seen her before.
It took about a half hour before the lawyer friend arrived and he and Carlos immediately went into the study and stayed there for about two agonizing hours before they emerged.
"Sorry about this Carlos,"he said.
"Me too,"he said,running his hands through his hair in resignation.
"I'll check on you in the morning."
Carlos saw him off to the door and turned to see Kiran hovering in the doorway.He held out his hands to her and she walked into his embrace.
"What did he say?"
He rubbed her back to soothe her,"There's nothing we can do honey.His mother....this Lola person..she made what they call a 'living will'.I don't know how she found out we couldn't have more children but...she believes we can take better care of her son than she can."
"But I don't understand..."
"Honey,she left a note explaining why she did this.Its not that she didn't want her son,she just couldn't take care of him.She also signed over her rights to the child in another document..."
As his voice trailed off,Kiran began to cry again,'I'm sorry Carlos I never meant for this to happen.I should have been more careful.I...."
"Look at me amora,"he said,holding her at arms length and looking her in the eye,"This was not your fault.It happens to the best of us and you know what?I would rather see this as a blessing than a problem."
She looked at him confused,"How?"
"Kiran,maybe this is God's way of giving us another child...it doesn't make sense to see this as anything else.Chris said all the documents are legal and binding and would stand up in any court of law.She willingly gave us her son Kiran."
She just broke down in tears again and he drew her close,knowing this was not the time to talk.She had just come to terms with the fact that she couldn't have anymore children and having to deal with school as well as her daughter was all too much for her.He understood this well.

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Later that night as they lay in bed,neither one of them could sleep.At about a few minutes to two in the morning,she sat up and looked at her husband.He looked like he was sleeping so she crept out of bed and went to check up on her daughter.As soon as she entered the room,as if sensing her presence both children woke up.Her mother in law had lain them next to each other.They looked like twins,lying there.She reached out to touch her daughter,and at the same time the boy began to fuss and made a face in readiness to cry.As if noticing there was someone else in her cot,Bani(Leanora) looked to the side.
He started to cry and Kiran just looked at him initially,then when he showed no signs of stopping,she had no choice but to pick him up.Almost immediately,he sucked air into his lungs and quietened down.He was about a month old,same as her daughter.He began to burrow into her neck in an indication that he was hungry.She held him upright and when it looked like he would start crying again she let him lay back on her shoulder.She walked around the room trying to get him to sleep but he was hungry and wouldn't sleep.Finally she sat down and cradled him,he looked at her expectantly at her and slowly she began to unbutton her night shirt.
He found his source of food and hungrily began to suck on it.She just looked at him while he ate.She occasionally glanced at her daughter who had her hand in her mouth,looking in her direction.When he was full he disengaged and she once again put him up her shoulder so the milk would go down.In a few minutes he fell asleep.As she put him down to sleep she noticed his tiny fist had a lock of her hair in it.She slowly disengaged it and stood up,watching him sleep.It then dawned on her that her daughter too was falling asleep.
Slowly,she turned to walk out only to find Carlos standing in the doorway.She walked to him and once again,he held her."Thank you,"he said.
"What for?"she asked,a frown furrowing her brows as she looked up at him.
"Your heart accepted him."
There was a pause as she thought.After a while,she said"Bani seems to like him."
"Mmmhhmm."
"She wouldn't sleep until I fed him."
"Really?"
"Carlos..."
"Look Kiran,we don't have to decide tonight...we could wait a few days and see how we..."
"Carlos,stop,"she said,"I know all of this has happened too fast for us to catch our breaths but....I know you.And I know you already want him as your son.And that's okay too.His mother trusted us enough to give him to us.So I guess if you're willing,so am I."
He searched his wife's eyes to make sure she wasn't doing this just for him.He saw what he needed to.The boy was not any different from her daughter anymore.He had tasted her breast milk and that more than made him hers.Blood couldn't make them any less mother and son now.
Tears stung the back of his eyes,"What did I do to deserve you?"
He kissed her forehead and held her tight.Then came what they didn't expect.
"Hallelujah!!"came a victorious scream from his mother's room.
Shocked at first,they suddenly started laughing,"Goodnight ma.You better get some sleep cos now you've got two grandkids."
"I'll survive baby,you two go do something with what's left of your night,"she called from her room.
"Ma!"he said,"There's children in the house!"
Kiran pulled him towards their room,and this time when they got into bed,they actually fell asleep.A heavy burden had been lifted,though it would still take getting used to.


Time went by and the rest of the family came up the following weekend and he was christened and they knocked back and forth until everyone just decided to let Kiran do the honors.She had named him Tarun,and everyone else just called him CJ,short for Carlos Junior.His mother never came back true to her word,and Tarun truly was the a God-send.Bani had a brother and a playmate.They celebrated their birthdays together as his mother never said what day exactly he was born so they gave him Bani's birthday.They explained to him the origin of his birth when he was eight but like a boy too mature for his own age he'd simply asked both his parents one question.
"Do you love me?"
"Of course Tarun,how could you think anything less?"
His face broke out in a smile,"Good.I love you too.Come on Bani,lets go play catch!"
He and his sister had run out the door as if they hadn't said a thing,leaving both his parents stunned.


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His sister never did anything without him.They were thick as thieves growing up and still they were the same mischievous little rats.Finally,after eighteen years they were beginning new chapters in their lives.They got to the school in good time and they both went to get robed and were taking all the pictures they could too.It was a crazy time.The principal after a long and drawn out speech,congratulated the graduating class and introduced the valedictorian,none other than Bani herself.
Kiran almost burst with joy,seeing her little girl up there.Bani waved to her mother and brother and Micheal's parents who were also seated with them.Then she began her speech.



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MUMBAI-INDIA

Everyone was seated at home in the living room.Uday,Krishna,Aditya,Jigyasa,Ranveer and Jai.They were actually happy to have him home today,as his usual routine after a takeover or total destruction of an enemy,he went out to some bar and drank himself silly.Everyone was talking about how their day had been,
"Krishna,I tell you one day I'll shoot this son of yours,"Uday said,shaking his head in mock disapproval of his son.
"What did I do now?"Jia asked looking up from his glass of chardonnay which he had absentmindedly been swirling.
"Jai,you make me proud everyday,but sometimes you remind me of a great white shark.You bait people until you destroy them and this is just not right.There are times when it is necessary in business but can't you slow it down?"
"Are we back to this again?"Jai asked in exasperation,"Papa,i'm a twenty eight year old man who is capable of doing what he thinks is right.If I choose to live up to my name as the 'Annihilator' then so be it.Today was nothing more than a normal takeover which in my opinion was long over due."
"I know why you feel the need to cause pain Jai,but some people do not deserve it,"Krishna said softly.
"Mama,please.The last thing I need is anyone getting on my case about the way I live my life,"his expression had darkened,his brown eyes had a fire in them that would cause a lesser man to cringe.
So saying he got up and walked into his study,banging the door behind him.He paced up and down like a prowling tiger.
They all blamed him,they all thought it was his fault.Did they think he liked being this way?He had tried to live by the rules of society but those very rules had turned out to be the very rules that ridiculed him.Emotions were for weaklings and he would be damned if he made the mistake of doing anything with emotions again.Everything had been taken away from him in one fell swoop...he didn't have a say in the matter,it had just been taken away.
He had sworn never to let emotions becloud his judgement ever again.It had cost him enough in the past and thinking how a thing affected someone else was not his problem.In the two years since he had been dubbed the 'Annihilator',only one person had escaped his wrath,and that was Raashi Sharma.
Her father was President/CEO of Sharma Industries and the man had made a quip about Jai's having to hide his face in shame because he was made a fool of by people who no one would think could pull the wool over his eyes.And wondered out loud if Jai would be able to emulate the great Uday Walia in the business world.Jai had then taken it upon himself to begin to beat down the value of the shares in Sharma Industries for a whole year until he had bought and was in control of more than half the empire.He had wanted to bankrupt the company and raise it again from scratch.
Kunjan Sharma had come to him begging to have mercy at which Jai had thrown him out of the office like a common beggar.Uday had tried to intervene but the look his son gave him told him his intervening would make matters worse for Kunjan.Jai had loved looking down at him,grabbing his feet and pleading that he had a family and employees to think about and to consider that ithe had spent his whole life building this company to what it was.
Needless to say his pleas fell on deaf ears.After hehad been thrown out,later that evening,he had been working late when there was a soft knock on the door.
"Come in,"he said,curious to know who would want to see him at this time,he glanced at his wrist watch.Halk past nine.
It was a girl....no,woman who was around his age,maybe a little younger.
"Yes,how may I help you?"he asked,assessing her.
She was nervous,he could see that from the way she held her hands together in an effort to disguise the way the shook.Her eyes betrayed her too.The way they darted from place to place showed she might as well bolt if he said BOO!!
Swallowing hard,she said,"I'm Raashi.Raashi Sharma."
He raised his brow in a wordless,'you don't say,"How may I help you?"
He leaned back in his chair to get a better view of her,and fix her with a catlike stare guaranteed to make her more nervous.
"I came to talk to you about my father,"she said mustering courage.
"Your father's case is open and shut.In a few weeks his shareholders will lose faith in him,vote him out and I will come in and do what your father was so sure I couldn't do."
"So you spent all this time thinking of how to punish him?This is more about ego for you than it is business?To destroy everything a man has worked for just to prove yourself?"she asked incredulously.
"But of course,"he said standing and coming around to stand in front of her,"I don't expect you to understand any of it."
She looked at him like he was an animal,her eyes filling with tears,"This has made my father less than who he was.He walks with his head down because you have snatched the very inheritance he was to leave for his children.Have you no heart?"
He regarded her through hooded eyes,spun around and went to pour himself a drink.He said over his shoulder,"I had one once upon a time but it became a nuisance.In business Raashi,there are no emotions."
He was looking at her all funny and it caused her to wrap her shawl around her tightly.
"However,I find myself wanting to make a deal right now."
He had her attention now."Well?Am I supposed to beg for that too?"
He gave a throaty chuckle and took a sip of his drink,'You came down here to see if there was anything you could do to save your father?Well there is.Feel free to be offended,but this is what you have to do."
She was listening with rapt attention.
"I want just one day with you,"he watched her intently,"The whole day...and night."
He let the impact of what he had just said sink in,and watched in amusement as realization hit and and her shock turned to disgust.
"How dare you even speak to me about such a thing?"she said in pure disgust,"Do I look like I am a kothawali?"
"Well Raashi,there are so many high class hookers that unless you're upclose you never know who is who.You don't have to look the part to be one nowadays so..."
"I don't have to stand here to listen to this,"she turned around and started to walk away.
"Raashi..."he drawled,"The same manner in which your helplessness forced you to come here is the same way your helplessness will force you to return.And when it does,my door will still be open."
Giving him a dirty glance she stalked off in a huff,listening to Jai's sadistic laughter in the wake of her exit.
Jai smiled to himself.This was unexpected and it added a new perspective to the whole game.Well he would sit back and watch the fun.She would be back,he could stake his life on it.

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After the vote was made and her father was removed and he was installed as the new CEO,she did return and he actually set up a date in a hotel for.She was to do nothing but spend the whole day getting pampered and ready for him to come to her at night.He had gotten to the hotel to find that she had refused all the treatments and looked like hell because she had cried all day.He was determined to go through with it either way....he was going to have her this night and nothing would stop him.Unfortunately for him though,as soon as he touched her she passed out.It had turned into a fiasco with the hotel doctor coming in to check on her and all sorts.
By the time she came to,he was sitting with his head in his hands.She sat up and she dragged the blanket up to her neck and looked at him,her eyes huge with fright and a million questions.
"Relax Raashi,I didn't touch you.You made damned sure of that.He picked up a sheaf of papers and threw them on the bed,"Tell your father I will handover the company to him after it has stabilized.This has left a sour taste in my mouth."
She was looking at him as though he was speaking French.What had changed his mind?She couldn't understand this man.
"Get some rest.I'll see you in the morning,"he started towards the door.
"Thank you."
It was so faint he almost didn't hear it.He turned to look at her for a good five seconds,then he turned away and left.
Somewhere in that stone statue,a heart still beats,Raashi thought to herself.



Coming out of his reverie,he downed the remainder of the contents of his glass.He didn't care what people thought.He was fine as a heartless man.


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I'LL STOP HERE GUYS.I'M ALMOST ASLEEP ON MY LAPTOP.HOPE YOU ENJOY IT AND PLEASE COMMENT.



😊 😊

~~~~~~~~~~~~~NEXT UPDATE~~~~~~



Graduation had been so much fun.Taking pictures and giving hugs and parents treating their kids to cars and exotic trips and all what not,it almost seemed like this day would never come.But finally it was here and it was over.
"Okay guys,its back home for us,"Kiran said,"We still have to get ready for tonight."
"So soon?"Mrs.Montgomery and Micheal's mother said,looking sorry that this phase of their day had come to an end.Anything that involved Bani was dear to her and her family for so many reasons.
"Well its not like the day has come to an end honey,we still have a show to go to,"Dr.Montgomery said,kissing his wife's temple.
Bani watched the display of affection between them and looked wistfully at her mom.
Tarun seeing the look,rubbed his sister's back.They had to think of something.She looked up at him gratefully and inhaled deeply.
"Eh duffer,make sure you come tonight.Don't want to hear anything about that hater girlfriend of yours..."
"I wouldn't miss it for the world peaches,"he dropped a kiss on her forehead and said jovially,"Ok people off you go."
He and Tarun shook and hugged each other and after a flurry of byes the cars went separate ways.


Their grandparents were arriving this evening as it was the soonest they could get away from business and stuff.So they were headed for the airport to pick them up .Bani just hoped that with their coming a solution could be found to what bothered her the most--her mother being happy.They had arrived at the airport just as the plane was coming to a halt.Minutes later the passengers were alighting and she spotted her grandparents and she began to bob up and down in excitement.
"There they are!"she exclaimed.
"They can't hear you di,"Tarun said dryly.
"Oh hush!"she elbowed him,"Here they come.Dadi!!"
As soon as they crossed the lounge she was throwing herself into her grandmother's arms.
"Hey!"her grandmother exclaimed,giving her a bearhud,"Ooh,you've gotten so big since the last time I saw you."
"Really?'
"For sure my dear,OOhh look at you,"she held her at arms length,"More beautiful everyday!"
Coming forward,Tarun shoved Bani aside to get his own hug,"Welcome Dadi."
"OOhh my goodness!Kiran,what are you feeding this boy?And where did all this muscles come from?"she said in doting awe of her grandson.
"What do I not feed him,"Kiran rolled her eyes,"He eats like a whale!"
"Come on Mom,you're embarrassing me,"he said grumpily,sporting a smile,"Where's Grandpa?"
"Right here mi cielo!"bellowed a voice from behind them at which both Bani and Tarun ran to him and her enveloped them in a bear hug,"Oh,look at my two little ones all grown up now.And where is my beautiful daughter in law?"
He also enveloped Kiran in a hug,then held her away to look at her,"You've lost weight!"
"What?"she said.
"I will have to fatten you up,"he said resolutely,"before I return.I tell you,no man likes a scarecrow."
He dropped his voice to a conspirator whisper which made them all burst into laughter as they walked to go get their luggage.
It was a madhouse in the car with their Grandfather who was larger than life refusing to be driven and insisting on driving saying the traffic rules were the same in Texas as they were in California and if red meant stop and green meant go,then he could drive just about anywhere.Not feeling up to fighting,they let him drive.
They got home in one piece and once they had settled in,it was almost time for the show.
"How do they do it?"Kiran asked in amazement,"They're way older than I am yet I'm the one who's getting tired.Them...their just ready to go!"
Bani laughed,"Come on mama,its time to go."
They piled into the car and were off to the Montecarlo conference center where the graduation party was holding.The place was decorated in deep reds and gold and trimmings of white and a whole lot of glitter to give it the easter feel.
"Ok guys,enjoy the show and be good,"Tarun said sternly to his grandfather,for the man was notorious for shouting out loud in Spanish whenever they were on stage.
Its a Mexican thing,he would say defensively,its not a crime to be proud of my young ones eh?
They went back stage into the dressing rooms which was buzzing with activities as the dancers got ready.
"Okay people,we go on in half an hour.Ladies,we need to hurry it up!"the back stage co-ordinator yelled.
Bani quickly changed into her outfit which was a simple nightgown in ivory and its ankle length house coat.She did her make up in light quick strokes and was ready to go in time.She then walked in between the dancers,adjusting this skirt,tugging on that top and finally was satisfied with the array of colours in reds,golds,pinks,yellows and orange.
Tarun showed up behind her,"How do I look?"
"Dashing as always,"she said,talking in his orange shepherd jacket,black t-shirt and navy blue jeans.
"Great.Have..."
"Alright people,you're on in two minutes!"the coordinator yelled.
"Goodluck!"they said in unison and went to their separate positions.
Bani lay down on a bed and was carried on to the open stage and immediately,she could feel the adrenaline course through her body in every vein.This was her night...
The sound of chanting was the first sound from the track and when the sound of guitars filled the air,there was a scream as the dancers in their bright colourful outfits rushed on stage to form a simple but complex formation.....

(As you might have guessed,they were dancing to TENU LEKE from SALAAM-E-ISHQ.Tarun's entrance was spectacular as he came in on a horse which for the life of her Bani didn't know how they got into the auditorium.The dance began and it was screams and shouts all through,Tarun and Bani worked their magic which they had become quite famous for,it was sometimes easy to forget they were brother and sister.The music swelled and at some point it stopped abruptly and the trumpets that introduced Shakira's remix of HIPS DON'T LIE came on and the crowd was almost in a frenzy.Tarun felt like a superstar hearing the screams of girls his age and it was amazing the reaction he got when he did the salsa.Throwing off her housecoat, a drape like shawl was brought and hurriedly tied around her waist for more effect on the movements of her stomach and hips,so as not to give away the finale.
She heard fer grandfather's calls from the crowd and looked in front of her to see the Montgomerys seated next to her mother and like fire had been added to her and Tarun,finally the music changed and it turned into the solo dance of Beyonce in her song BABY BOY.
The shawl was removed and grabbing a hold of her outfit,she ripped it off to reveal a short shorts under her garment and she began to do the solo as the other dancers hurried off stage.She finished and lay flat when the music came to an end.
The crowd had eaten it up and once again,perfection at its peak.Bani lay on the ground in the middle of the stage,letting the thunderous applause wash over her.Once the lights dimmed,she got up and hurried back stage to join a group of celebrating ex-students who had put on their final show as students of Madison High.

It was a pleasant evening afterwards and needless to say,the Arseniegas were the center of attraction if not for their grandfather talking and entertaining everyone at the top of his voice,it was Bani and Tarun being congratulated or their mother being told how lucky she was to have them as kids.
By the time they walked into the house at about fifteen minutes to eleven that night,they could barely stand.
'I'm tired,"Bani complained.
"Me too,"Tarun added.
"This young generation,"their grandfather snorted,"Can't barely stand for twenty minutes no?"
"Grandpa,you slept the whole way home."
"So,I did more work than you at that party,"he said proudly.
"Alright,you win,"Tarun said,"Goodnight Grandpa.Grandma."
He kissed them both and headed upstairs.
"Goodnight my child,"his Grandmother said.
Bani was still hanging around.Her Grandmother noticed,"Bani,is there a problem sweetheart?"
She nodded.
"Well what is it?"she asked,coming to stand in front of her granddaughter whom she thought reminded her of her son everyday.
"Its mama,nana,"she sighed,"I'm very worried about her."
"OOhh my child,this is not the time to be worried.You just graduated school and you're going to one of the best schools in the country...tonight is not the time to worry about anyone."
Bani shrugged.
"Ok,I'll tell you what.Why don't you go to bed,get a good night's rest and we'll talk in the morning.How does that sound?"
Bani shook her head from side to side in the affirmative,giving her mother a watery smile.
"Now go to bed,"her grandmother said,shooing her upstairs.


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

"My poor baby,she's really worried about her mother,"
"Leave all this my love.Its late now.We came down here for two reasons.One down,one to go.We'll deal with it tomorrow."
Sighing heavily,she got into bed beside her husband and thought,tomorrow would take care of itself.
So saying,she nestled into the comfortable mattress and proceeded to fall asleep.


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