Part 8
"It has got to be her or your mother in law. The choice is yours" Milind put an end to his argument with his sister Sukruti.
"Stop eying on my mother in law who is double your age. I would prefer Prachi. Go and confess now" Sukruti finally made peace with the idea of her brother in love with a widow.
Sukruti's mother in law Mrs. Sharma had walked in to the living room just then making Sukruti worry if she heard anything she was just saying. Milind got up to leave and he first hugged Sukruti and then her mother in law too. He didn't forget to wink at Sukruti as he hugged Mrs. Sharma only to see a fume in his sister's eyes.
Milind had finally declared in front of Sukruti that he was in love and told her about Prachi's story and the present situation. Sukruti though was a bit apprehensive about her brother falling for a mother of a child hadn't yet been able to get the picture of Prachi walking with Milind out of her mind. At the end of the day, all she wanted was her brother to be happy.
Milind had mulled over the idea of confessing his love for Prachi in front of her. He imagined several scenarios of how she would take it. Though he started with her accepting his proposal happily, the last scenario he imagined dreaded him. He wondered what if she takes it all as sympathy, resigns from her job and walks away from him. That would indeed be destroying her world she has built after combating her fate. Milind didn't want even giving a tiny chance to something of that sort to happen. He deduced it to leave it to fate and time.
After Milind was back from Delhi, M3's music venture was the top priority for the company. Prachi had involved herself in every step as she concentrated on making it a success. Mallika Raichand had gladly agreed to sign the contract with them. Milind had often cruelly hid his heart's desires and dreams in an attempt to give Prachi no clue about what his emotions for her were. On the home front, Rashmi lovingly bonded with Milind in an innocent connection.
Finally after a month of hard work, M3 was all set to launch its music company. Ali had organized a lavish party and it had turned glamorous too with celebrities form Bollywood getting invitations. Milind arrived to the party dressed in a black suit and had looked breathtakingly attractive giving a strong competition to the men of the glam world. Prachi had worn a black saree with zardosi work gifted by her mother recently. Milind and Ali were welcoming the guests and Prachi had joined them.
"Hey Milind, how have you been darling? So good to see you. You look so hot" a tall slender woman dressed in a pink Gucci gown had hugged Milind and kissed him on his cheek. Prachi had moved aside as she gave space to the woman who had ran to Milind not noticing people around him.
"Welcome Mallika" Milind had greeted her while he looked at Prachi and Ali as if he was embarrassed.
"Baby, why did you not tell me you had come to Delhi? I was missing you so much" Mallika had held Milind's hands and commented "Oh baby, beautiful cufflinks"
"Prachi, this is the best thing about being a bachelor. The beauties don't even look at married men" Ali had teased Mallika.
"Oh Ali, my dear, how can I forget you? How are you? Is this your wife?" Mallika had asked noticing Prachi.
"No, that's Prachi Shah, our new research analyst. In fact she is the one who came up with the idea of signing you for our first album. She gifted me these cufflinks by the way" Milind had explained.
Mallika then greeted Prachi hugging her too. "Thank you so much Prachi. I was thinking Milind chose me" Mallika said with a pinch of sadness.
"It's very nice to meet you and I am glad you accepted our offer Mallika. I will catch up with you later. I need to take care of the stage" Prachi had excused herself.
Milind too had excused himself then following Prachi. Mallika had her eye fixed on Milind as he walked behind Prachi.
As Prachi arranged flowers on the stage, Milind too reached there. Prachi smiled naughtily at him as she had figured out he was running away from Mallika.
"Now you know why I avoid her. The funny thing is I have told her 100 times that I have no feelings for her. But it doesn't make any difference." said Milind.
"Why do you not like her?" Prachi asked.
"Well, I like her. She is a friendly and sweet girl. But I don't love her. I don't think I ever can. Now that I am in love with some one else...." Milind had stopped there as he realized what he was saying.
"Who is it Milind? If you don't mind telling me'" Prachi sounded curious.
"Milind had turned and looked into Prachi's eyes as if complaining to her why she doesn't see that it is her who is in his heart. Soon looking away he said "I will tell you when I tell her. I haven't yet told her that I love her you see". Prachi smiled a sweet smile.
It was time for the launch of M3 musics. Milind had taken the centre stage and spoke a few words about the company. He had invited Ali, Ali's father and owners of a couple of music companies onto the stage. He then invited Mallika Raichand and finally Prachi Shah. Prachi was surprised that she was called upon to the stage too. Milind had acknowledged everyone along with Prach for their ideas and efforts in making M3 musics come alive.
There were performances by a few singers in the background as the party proceeded. Mallika's eyes had followed Milind every moment while Milind's eyes were fixed somewhere else. Finally Mallika caught hold of Milind and confronted him.
"Milind is it just the cufflinks or the girl too?" she had asked Milind.
"What do you mean Mallika?" Milind was puzzled.
"Let's be serious tonight. You know I love you Milind. I have told you 100 times. And I know you always said you didn't love me. I never accepted it. You know why? Because I knew some day I will win over you. But did I lose it today or what Milind? Today I see love in your eyes- not for me- but for her. Is she the one Milind? What's her name- your research analyst? Tell me Milind" Mallika's eyes filled with tears.
"Mallika please... don't cry" Milind tried consoling her.
"Milind admit it. It will help me get out of my craze for you. Please". Mallika was persistent.
"Mallika, I am no luckier than you when it comes to love. I think my love is one sided too like yours" Milind said with a sad note.
"How can she not love you? Is she a fool? No, I won't let it happen. Wait a minute" Mallika looked for Prachi.
"Mallika listen" Milind tried to stop her. There was an announcement from the singers asking the couples to join the stage for a dance, as they were to sing a super romantic number.
"Kabhie kabhie merey dil mein, khayaal aata hain"
The whole party had welcomed the song with applauds. Men and women had made couples among them and started swaying the music. Mallika found Prachi and took her hand and dragged her. Prachi wondered what she was doing but before she said anything she had got her in front of Milind.
"You guys are going to dance right and Mallika will watch" announcing it loud Mallika walked aside.
Some people had stopped dancing and stared at Milind and Prachi "Prachi I will explain later. I am really sorry. Can we dance for a bit? Please" Milind had whispered and Prachi nodded her head in agreement.
Milind came closer and put his hand slowly around Prachi's waist. Prachi extended her hand, which was soon caught in his as their fingers intertwined. Prachi put her other hand on his shoulder and as they started swaying, the rest of the couples continued with dancing too.
Milind's gaze got lost in Prachi's eyes- the eyes that seemed like an ocean to him. Before he realized he was sinking in them not knowing the depth. He had slowly pulled her a bit closer. It all had seemed like a dream to him as he forgot his surroundings. Prachi was frozen in that moment, in his proximity. His fingers had tightened their grip on hers. He then had subtly traced her tendrils, eye-brows, eyes, nose, cheeks and lips with his eyes. She had shivered, but hadn't tried to break free. As he pulled her even closer she had closed her eyes. He had found her angelic, with his heart telling him it was the moment of his life. Milind wondered why did he feel she was his.
"Kabhi kabhi mere dil mein khayaal aata hai
Ki ye badan ye nigaahein meri amaanat hain
Ye gesuon ki ghani chhaon hain meri khatir
Ye honth aur ye baahein meri amaanat hain"
The song was over. Most couples had broken free but not Milind and Prachi. Soon there was a loud announcement and a peppy dance number replaced the soft song. The fast music had got Milind and Prachi out of their respective worlds. Prachi had looked into Milind's eyes inquisitively while there was a panic in Milind's eyes. Ali had come looking for Milind then and took him out with him saying the owner of Sony music company had just arrived and was waiting to meet with him.
Mallika had sat watching Milind and Prachi dance. She had smirked as she felt she got to know a secret no one knew. She saw Milind walking out of the dance stage and Prachi left alone. She went to the stage and got Prachi with her. Prachi seemed numb and she had followed Mallika.
"Babes, you are lucky. You got what I didn't get. I am happy for you babes" said Mallika who was intoxicated with alcohol to some extent more than that she was intoxicated by emotions. Prachi was still in her own world to reply something.
"Babes, I want to buy a drink for you. Waiter, get madam a tequila cocktail" Mallika had ordered.
"Mallika I don't drink alcohol" Prachi finally was able to say something.
"No babes, you have to drink, cocktail, not that much alcohol, for my sake. Today Mallika lost. But Milind won. I want to celebrate his victory. You will celebrate with me, wouldn't you darling?" Mallika had tears in her eyes speaking.
Prachi didn't know what to say to Mallika. Mallika had then told Prachi how she waited for Milind who was never going to be hers. By then the waiter had got the drink for Prachi.
"Prachi, drink it for me. We will do cheers. Please drink it hun" Mallika had literally cried.
Prachi took a sip of the cocktail. It didn't taste as bad as she was expecting. Mallika was narrating her the stories of her meetings with Milind, how he avoided her but how she still hoped he might give in some day. Prachi had finished her drink listening to Mallika's sad story, which sounded more tragic with her narration of it. Alcohol had gotten into Prachi's blood slowly.
"Is it the saree babe? How did you hook up with him? I would have worn sarees everyday if he had told me. But I am happy for you both. He loves you. And you love him. Mallika is happy" shouted Mallika.
Most of the guests had left by then. Milind had finished his meeting and came looking for Prachi and Mallika, worried about what if Mallika might have told something to Prachi. He saw the two women he was looking for seated by the bar chatting.
"I love you Milind" said Prachi in slightly inebriated voice as she saw Milind walking towards her. "I love you Milind.. I really really love you" Prachi had got up from her seat walking up to Milind, but had collapsed in the midway.
Part 9
Milind was stunned to hear Prachi saying it loud that she loves him. For a moment he wondered if it was him who was drunk and imagining things since he did have his glass of champagne during the launch. He reached out to Prachi to get her up from the floor while Mallika said, "She fell in your love Milind. Mallika is happy".
Milind lifted Prachi off the floor and made her sit on a chair. She was still muttering unclear words. Ali had reached the scene too behind Milind.
"What's wrong with these women?" Ali had questioned, as he saw Prachi helped by Milind to sit upright while Mallika kept on saying she is happy. The waiter who had come to clear the table told Ali that the women had quite a few tequila shots.
"I am surprised Prachi drank alcohol. Anyways, we need to take them home Ali" said Milind. Ali suggested he would drop Mallika to her hotel since he knew where she stayed, as he had booked it for her. He asked Milind to take Prachi home.
Ali and Milind walked Mallika and Prachi respectively to their cars and also carried their purses. By the time Milind reached his car Prachi had dozed off. Milind got her into his passenger seat. By the time he started the car he heard his mobile ringing. It was premlatha who had already dialed Prachi's number several times but she hadn't received her calls as her mobile was silent. Milind had understood Premlatha wouldn't appreciate if he told her Prachi was intoxicated but instrad told her Prachi's mobile was silent and he will reach home with her in a little while.
Driving his car Milind wondered if it was all real- 'had he really heard Prachi saying she loved him? Was it love he saw in her eyes though she never allowed him to read them? If she really loved him why did she not respond to him? Why did she not like sharing her thoughts or troubles with him? Did she not trust him?' With his brain working heavily, Milind had turned to have a glance of Prachi who looked naive and beautiful in a deep slumber seated by him in his car. He wished if she could be there forever by his side in his life. In no time he had reached his building and parked his car in the parking lot. He knew he had to face Prachi's mother now and she wouldn't appreciate her daughter drunk and unconscious like this. He also wondered how to carry Prachi upstairs and what if neighbours saw her in his arms. Premlatha had seen Milind's car entering the building. She was going through anxiety, as it never happened that her daughter hadn't come home until late night or wouldn't receive her calls. She also wondered why Milind didn't make Prachi talk to her when she called him if Prachi was with him. Sensing some trouble Premlatha had come down the elevator as Prachi didn't come home though it was a few a few minutes since she saw Milind's car. As the doors of the elevator opened she was shocked to see Prachi in Milind's arms as he had stood waiting for the elevator.
Before Premlatha questioned Milind explained that someone from the office played pranks with Prachi and got her drunk without telling her knowledge. Premlatha though shocked to hear it had asked Milind if Prachi was all right. Milind had said Prachi is just asleep and will be fine in the morning.
Milind had carried Prachi inside her flat with Premlatha opening the door for him. He laid her besides Rashmi who was fast asleep long time ago.
Finally retiring to his bed after what he felt was an implausible turnout of events Milind had decided he will sort it out all with Prachi once she is back to her senses. His heart was beating in joy for his dearest dream seemed to come true. He felt like his wait was over and he had got his answers. He couldn't wait for the morning sun to lighten his life, ignite his hidden hopes. With an excitement that life was going to change from tomorrow in his way, Milind had forced himself to sleep.
Milind had got up early in the morning at about 4 am. He found it hard to spend time. He thought of going to the gym but the gym was to open only at 6. He watched TV to kill time where every moment seemed like an hour as he awaited to confront Prachi with bated breath. Finally he went to the gym at 6, worked out for almost an hour and came back.
Finishing his shower and breakfast, Milind sat in his patio checking emails wondering if Prachi had woken up. He was giving her a bit of time to sleep for the alcohol to disappear from her system. It was a routine for Premlatha and Rashmi to grace the garden with other kids of the building on Sunday mornings. But today there was no sign of Rashmi though all other kids slowly had gathered in the garden. Wondering what was the issue, Milind rang Prachi's home number, which no one received. Milind also tried Prachi's cell phone number that didn't get answered either.
Half an hour later Prachi replied through a text message saying she had taken Rashmi and Premlatha to Cubbon park and later they were going to visit Lal Bagh too. Milind was extremely disappointed that he wasn't going to see Prachi for a few hours. He also wondered if Prachi remembered at all what she was talking the last night.
Milind normally played tennis with Ali on Sundays or met with his other friends. He had received a call from one of his friends that they had arranged to play a cricket match that day. Milind had joined them, as it seemed impossible for him to pass time.
Milind ended up spending the whole day with his friends, as they planned to go out for a dinner in a far off dhaba. Milind though was dying to meet Prachi hadn't been able to pull off a reason to convince his friends. By the time he returned home it was late night and he thought he would meet Prachi at work in the morning anyway.
When he reached his office the next morning, Milind saw Prachi busy talking to a client. Later when they had bumped into each other, she just had said a hello and walked off as if nothing had happened two nights ago. Later Milind had joined Prachi in the canteen for lunch and Prachi talked about work related matters. Milind could see that Prachi was avoiding eye contact though she seemed to be trying to behave as normal as she could.
Later that evening Premlatha had come with Rashmi to Milind's flat inviting him for the small birthday party that she planned for Prachi. Prachi's birthday was on the coming Saturday and Milind was extremely disappointed as he needed to go to Mumbai for a meeting where he was the chief guest. This was the annual meeting of mobile service providers of the country and he couldn't afford to miss this, for it was going to be attended by not only all the mobile service companies but also the telecom minister of the country.
Milind thought Prachi's birthday would be the best occasion to confess his love for her and get her to speak the truth. He contemplated Prachi was probably embarrassed with what had happened at the launch party and that's the reason she was avoiding him. He also thought it could be that she loved him but thought he doesn't love her and that must be the reason for her secluded behaviour. The other thought that crossed Milind's mind was that Prachi might be inhibiting herself for she was married before and has a child.
The next couple of days had been the same where Prachi had excused herself with some or the other reason whenever Milind tried to talk to her only driving Milind's annoyance to its threshold. On one moment Milind even thought of confronting her directly but then he didn't want to spoil her upcoming birthday. After breaking his head with thoughts he finally decided to propose to her on her birthday but since he was not going to be there for the occasion, he thought of writing a letter. As he wasn't particularly good at writing letters, he couldn't get himself to do so. He then thought of buying a greeting card and proposing to her that way. He went to buy a greeting card on Thursday evening at Sapna book house. As he came out of the book house, his eyes fell on the Kanjeevaram silk house nearby and it flashed his mind that he could also buy Prachi a red saree, which would symbolically mean that he wanted to marry her.
Milind bought a heavy silk saree and got it packed in a gift wrap. At home he filled in the card in simple words "Dear Prachi, It's time for me to let you know the woman I am in love with. Slowly but truly, my heart said it aloud- You are the one. Yes Prachi, you are the one I am in love with. Will you marry me? - Milind".
On Friday morning, after Prachi left for work, Milind went to Prachi's flat. He handed over the gift packet to Premlatha to which he also had stuck the greeting card. He asked her to keep it in Prachi's room somewhere she would find it. He also apologized for not being able to attend her birthday the next day.
On Friday evening Ali, Milind and Prachi had a meeting, which went up to 6 pm. After the meeting Ali had left quickly as he had promised to take his wife for a movie that evening. Milind got tempted to take Prachi for a coffee or an ice cream and wish her happy birthday before he left for Mumbai the next morning. As Prachi gathered her files to leave, Milind said "I am going home too. I can take you in my car".
"No, thanks" said Prachi not even meeting his eyes which came across rude.
"Come on Prachi, We live in the same building" Milind said irritated by her rude reply.
"Yes. But, it's fine. I would prefer taking a bus or an auto" Prachi still was looking away.
"Why are you doing this to me Prachi? Why are you playing like this? Now don't act as if you don't know anything. The way you are avoiding my gaze itself says you do remember and acknowledge what happened on Saturday night" Milind had come to the point though he hadn't planned to.
Prachi had anticipated it. She knew this would come her way one day or the other. "I should have apologized for it. When alcohol goes in, strange things come out. I have no idea why did I behave like that. Yes I was avoiding you, as I was ashamed of it. Let me apologize. I hope you forgive and forget about it".
Milind was surprised to see Prachi replying so cold. "What do you mean by that? Do you want to say all that was a lie? Do you want to say what I see in your eyes is also a lie?"
"Milind you have misunderstood. I am getting late. Let me go and please close this chapter" Prachi had turned to leave. Milind stood in front of her as a wall.
"Prachi, I will not let you go before I make things clear. You say I have misunderstood. Have you not seen the same in my eyes? Reply me Prachi. Reply looking into my eyes. Why are you looking away? Look at me!" Milind's voice had raised its pitch.
Prachi had turned to face him "Listen Milind. I don't see anything in your eyes. I don't want you to see anything in my eyes too" a film of tears had formed in Prachi's eyes and her lips trembled.
"If that is the case, why did you say I love Milind that night? Why did you not say I love Ali, I love some XYZ? People speak the truth when intoxicated" Milind asked Prachi looking into her eyes.
"Whatever it is Milind. I don't want anything in my life to change. I am happy with my life and would like to live like this. Please don't interfere". Prachi had turned her back to Milind to hide the tears that flew out of her eyes.
"Do you not want some love in life Prachi? Do you not want a father for your baby?" Milind had asked her going in front of her.
Prachi had turned away again and said "No, I don't want to burden anyone's life with myself or my daughter".
"How dare you call that little thing a burden?" Milind had shouted. Soon he calmed down and held Prachi's arms in his hands "Listen Prachi'"
"Take your hands off of me Milind. I have told you I don't want anything from you in my life. If you don't want me to work here, I will find a job somewhere else. Please let me live as I am living. Please don't force all this on me" Prachi had said firmly.
Milind took his hands off of her and took a few steps back. "Prachi, I am not forcing you. I am loving you. Do you not see my love Prachi?"
"Milind it's not love. It's your sympathy for a widow with a child. Or may be that you are just attracted to me. Both can't sustain for a lifetime. You better get out of it. It's good for both of us. Please for God's sake stop all this and let me live in peace" Prachi said sounding inconsiderate.
Milind had clenched his fist. "Damn it" he had hit the table with his fist and walked out of the office room slamming the door. Driving his car home he went to Prachi's flat straight. Prachi's door was slightly open and as he entered Premlatha had given a shout thinking that it was Prachi. Milind had said he had come to take his gift back as there was some confusion and also informed that Prachi might be on her way back. Though it felt weird Premlatha had asked Milind to take the pack himself as her hands were oily massaging Rashmi. She had told him the gift was in Prachi's book shelf. Milind had entered Prachi's room and looked around for the packet. Finding his gift, he extended his hand to reach out for it, making a couple of files fall on the ground due to his force. Picking the files up to put them back onto the shelf, he got surprised to see a photograph that peeped out of one of the files.
Part 10A
21 Feb 2003
Hello Mr. Milind Mishra,
My name is Prachi Shah. I am a student of Bachelor of Business management at the University of Delhi. I recently read about you in "Student" magazine. First of all let me congratulate you for getting one of the most prestigious scholarships to pursue studies at Harvard. Your story is motivating. The way you have come up in life has become an inspirational journey for me. It's my dream too to study at the Harvard Business School......
"My father didn't tell me how to live, he lived, and let me watch him do it"- isn't that what you said about your late father? My father too is with me as an example in every step I take thought he left me years ago........
23 Aug 2003
Dear Milind,
I haven't even posted my last letter to you. Here I am writing one more. I read you are coming back to India and starting a company- that too in Bangalore! I am going to Bangalore next week. I have got admission to the Indian Institute of Management over there. I couldn't get into Harvard, but IIMB is not bad right?
You are going to venture the mobile market in India! I think it's a great idea.......
12 Dec 2003
OMG!!!! You had me floored today! First- I can't believe my luck that I saw you today. Second- you are a genius or what? Even the likes of Azim Premji couldn't argue with you! Let me tell you one more thing. You have got killer looks. My classmates were drooling over you rather than listening to your talk. Well, I admit I too drooled over you, but I also carefully listened to every word you spoke for you were sending brainwaves around. Thanks to our head of the department who invited you too for our annual symposium. I wish I could have a photograph with you. Anyways I hope the photographer has clicked one when I had come to the stage to hand over the bouquet to the chief guests. I know you wouldn't have seen me.........
14 Jan 2004
You have driven me crazy. Why do I search for your interviews in every business magazine? Why do search your name on Internet every day to know more about you? Why have you occupied my thoughts like this? I have become your bona fide stalker while you are blissfully unaware of me :-(........
15 Feb 2004
What was this gossip all about? I am sure that Rekha Sawant is a bitch. I think she is pissed off that you didn't choose her for your company's ad campaign. But how dare she go public to defame you and say you ditched her? I don't think you would ever have an affair with such a nasty woman.......
27 Feb 2004
I know it now. I am so glad you cleared it out in front of the media. I saw your interview on TV today. What an answer you gave when you were asked about that bitch. "Why would I date a woman who has had 10 boyfriends already. I would go for someone who would be just mine and mine only". Yes your girlfriend would just be yours. And that will be me someday!!! You know what, no man has ever impressed me like you have done. I never even had a crush on anyone, not even a cinema star or a cricketer. My best friend teases me for my crush on you. She thinks you look rugged. She has a hopeless crush on Aamir Khan who is married with kids. At least I am not eyeing on a married man. You are single and me too!! I hope we will meet someday and we fall in love (am I not in love already? Hahaa)........
30 Jul 2004
Happy birthday to you. Can you believe I bought a cake. cut it and ate it too- all in your name. I thought of sending a card to you. But then somehow I can't get myself to post the letters I write to you. I am stocking them up in this folder.. I have named it as "To Milind, with Love". If I ever meet you (I really really pray I will)- I will show you how truly madly deeply I am in love with you. I am sorry I didn't buy any gifts for you. I remember you saying in that interview with Simi Garewal that you love have an inkling for cufflinks. I saw a nice pair of silver cufflinks the other day in MG road. But I don't have enough money to buy them. I will buy them when I earn my first salary......
7 Sep 2004
My sister Ayesha is in love!!!! She had called me today and she narrated her love story. I have seen that guy Varun, he was studying with her. Nice guy. I am happy for her. I didn't tell her I am in love too....how do I? She will laugh at me......
10 January 2005
Hey I saw you again today on TV. Your company has made it to the top. Congratulations!!! And you should congratulate me too. I convinced my professor to allow me to research on your company for my thesis. I am going to come and meet you sometime next week. I am so excited. My hands are shaking in excitement as I write this letter.......
12 Feb 2005
I hate you. You are in the US for the next 4 months. I hate you hate you hate you. I come to your company a few times in the next two months and you are in the US. I am so unlucky. Damn.....
30 June 2005
Finally my exams are over. I will be leaving for Delhi. I will apply for a job in your company after I leave for Delhi. You can't escape anymore. Ok Mr. Mishra?.......
7 Jul 2005
I hate my life. My mother is asking me to marry a navy officer. My sister is begging me to say yes to this rishta. I don't want to marry someone else when I have you in my heart. But how can I ever going to convince anyone or you that I love you. You don't even know me. You might be in love with someone else......
My mother has sweated her blood to raise Ayesha and me. This is the first time she has asked me to do something for her. How do I get out of this situation? If I don't marry, my sister can't marry. My sister's family wants her marriage to happen before the end of this month at any cost. Is this the end of my relationship with you Milind? Is it all going to die in my dreams? .......
2 Aug 2005
What an unfortunate coincidence that I became Mrs. Shergill on your birthday. I wanted to be Mrs. Mishra, Mrs. Prachi Milind Mishra. But destiny has played cruel games on me. Neev is my husband. He is a nice person. But I can't accept him as my husband.......
12 Sep 2005
Milind, I am sorry. I feel I lost everything. Yesterday night, I lost my virginity to Neev. I didn't want it and he didn't notice my silent tears. But I had no reason to stop him for it was his right. But I feel like I cheated him. You are in my heart and I slept with him.....
29 Sep 2005
I told Neev about you. But he laughed it off. He said he too had a crush on Preity Zinta. He is leaving to Visakhapatnam tomorrow. He said he will take me there too after two months. I feel guilty about being happy that he is leaving. But then, I don't want to live in this house. My father in law is a nice man, but my mother in law hates me. She doesn't like me, for I am not from a rich background. My brother in law Ranvir comes across as a jerk. He doesn't even call me Bhabhi.....
18 Nov 2005
My husband died saving his fellowmen. When I finally forced my mind to lock you in a corner and try to accept him as my life partner, he left me for good. He didn't even give me a chance. I think I never gave him any happiness, never gave him any love. I want to kill myself. I can't bear with this life. But I have another life inside me.....
June 8 2006
I have found a reason to live. My angel daughter- I will name her Rashmi- because she is my ray of light, my ray of hope. I have to live for her. And I have you to confide all my agony in......
Dec 8 2006
I am back to my in laws house. I wish they allowed me to live in my mother's house forever. But I am happy that my brother in law is in Kolkata....
July 30 2007
How are you? Happy birthday my dear. I can't believe I still haven't got over this invisible relationship with you. Pouring my heart down writing letters to you is the only solace in my life. You may not exist in my real world my heart knows you are my inner strength. I couldn't have pulled off my life without you. I am sorry, still haven't bought cufflinks for you. I hope I can convince my in laws and start working soon. My daughter wishes you on your birthday.......
2 Mar 2008
It's becoming intolerable for me to live in this house. Ever since Ranvir has returned from Kolkata he is trying one or the other way to get close to me. Today he had the audacity to hold my hand. If my father in law hadn't walked in, I don't know what would have happened. My mother in law doesn't believe me for she hates me even more thinking that I brought death to her son and bad luck to their house.....
30 July 2008
Your birthday brought good luck to me. I applied for jobs today and one of them in your company too. My heart says you are the solution to all my wounds though I know our lives can never go together. Happy birthday my dear....
25 Oct 2008
You were there in front of me Milind. Seeing you I felt my life coming back to me. Though I think I did well in the interview I am not hoping to get this job. But a mere sight of you has filled me with enough courage to fight my way out of my hell. And you dropped me to the airport today. Was I fulfilling my dream of sitting by you in your car or what? Life is weird- dreams do come true but in their own time. Your sister Sukruti is sweet....
29 Nov 2008
I still can't believe I have got this job. I am going to be working for you. Yes, I have TOLD my mother in law I am going and she can't stop me. I am thankful to God that my father in law is with me in my decision. I have to leave this house before Ranvir comes back to Delhi.....
Dec 2 2008
I got my first salary in advance and I finally bought cufflinks for you. Not the same ones I had seen years ago- but similar ones. Now I have to find a reason to gift them to you. I hope the day comes soon and I hope you will like them.....
17 Dec 2008
I saw another dream of mine coming true today. My daughter was in your arms. I wish it could be real. I wish you were my little angel's father. Do you know how many times I used to day dream of my little family with you. How cruel the destiny is- my dreams are in front of my eyes but I can't hold them. My hands are tied. Look at how my mother doesn't mind opening her heart in front of you. But I never can as I know I never should. I hope she doesn't tell you about my past. I don't want to tell you my tragic story and pain your heart for I know you are a kind soul and you will try doing all you can to help me.
Milind, I am surprised I still haven't given up my dreaming. Today when you looked at me eating ice cream, I felt as if you were in love with me.....
24 Dec 2008
Finally I found an excuse to gift you the cufflinks. I hope you will like them. Why do you always make me long for a father for Rashmi whenever I see her with you? Why do you build dreams in me for something that can never happen?.........
29 Dec 2008
Thanks a ton for being with me when I was distraught seeing my bleeding daughter. You are such a big hearted man. You are a greater human being than I had imagined.....
30 Dec 2008
I might have come across rude to you this morning. But I don't want you to sympathize with me. I also don't want you to feel that I am in pain as I feel that might pain you too.....
17 Jan 2009
Did I declare it aloud? Did I admit I am in love with you? How could I do that? Oh God, Why did I drink alcohol? I wasn't in my senses - probably even before I got intoxicated. Mallika had made my dream of dreams come true. I was in your arms. It had felt like the moment of my life. I had lived the happiest moment of life when you touched me, when your hands held mine, when your eyes met mine. Was that love I saw in your eyes? Did I saw a longing for me in your eyes? Oh God, Oh God, I wish all this had happened before, when I was my real self.....
22 Jan 2009
No, I can't let it go on. I can't let you love me. I don't deserve you. I know it's not just sympathy you have for me. I can see in your eyes the same feeling I have in me. One part of me is dancing with elation that you are in love with me. But my realities shun me down. I can't be the woman of your life who would be just yours and only yours for I have lived with Neev. I know you would accept me as I am and my daughter too. But that's not fair on you. I shouldn't burden you with my past and with my daughter. I don't want you to lose the bliss of being the first man in a woman's life. I might come across cruel to you. But I have to cut it all off before it's too late. I wish it had all happened 3 years ago......
Part 10B
Milind closed the folder and took a deep breath. Sitting in his room for the last one hour, he had gone through the numerous letters that were piled in that folder. His eyes were wet and his heart overwhelmed. His traced the letters of "To Milind, with Love" written by Prachi in her beautiful handwriting. He put the photograph of Prachi with him in the background inside the folder. Wiping his tears with both his hands, he got out of his flat along with the folder.
Milind bumped into Premlatha and Rashmi as he came out of his door. He asked Premlatha if Prachi was home and she had said she just came a few minutes ago. She also informed him that they were going to buy a surprise cake for Prachi. Rashmi had said "seccet cake" to Milind as warning him not to tell anything to Prachi.
Prachi had opened her door thinking her mother might have forgotten something as she heard her doorbell ring. Her heart skipped a beat to face Milind at her door whose stare had pierced her. She had taken a couple of steps back while Milind made his way inside the flat. Closing the door behind him Milind had held the folder in front of her. She felt dizzy and had sweat drops forming on her forehead seeing that. Milind had taken steps towards her while she had walked back. With in a few steps, her back had hit the wall while Milind had moved even closer without blinking his eyes which were fixed on her. Throwing the folder off of his hand on a chair nearby Milind had stabbed her eyes with his further. With great effort Prachi had gathered herself and tried to say something. Before she said anything, Milind had cupped her face in his palms to say "You know what Prachi, you love me and I love you. Nothing else matters". The very next moment Milind had pressed his lips against hers not allowing Prachi to react to what he had just said. He had sucked her lips in his mouth as if he was going to dry them off of their wetness. Prachi had tears flow through her eyes while she had lost herself to the moment that was beyond her.
A minute later Milind had pulled back allowing her to breath. He had then kissed her tears away and caged her in his arms placing his chin on her head. "You can't convince me not to fall in love with you. I may not love you as much as you have loved me all these years. But I have loved you more than I loved anyone else in my life. I need you Prachi I need you"
"No, Milind, I don't'" Prachi had whimpered against his chest.
"You don't need to say anything. When you yourself can travel the depth of love, why are you underestimating my love? It would be a shame on my love if it accepts defeat just because you had a past. Prachi, I consider myself lucky that I have found you now. You are my love. I will not let you go for I can find no one who would love me as you have loved me. I know you have decided to live without me. But I need you Prachi. I want to live with you in your present, in your future" Milind had hugged her even more tighter. Prachi had cried her pain of years burying her head in his chest.
Before Prachi could say anything, the doorbell had rung. Milind had released Prachi from his arms and opened the door himself. Seeing Milind in her house Rashmi had joyously said "Millinddd". "No Milind" Milind had sharply told Rashmi as he lifted her in his arms while the child watched him afraid. "Call me Paapa. Mamma and Paapa" he had said looking at Prachi. Prachi was too numb to say anything while Premlatha was pleasantly surprised and trying to understand what was happening. "Maa, I would like to marry your daughter and your daughter has agreed to marry me too" saying so Milind had gone down stairs with Rashmi in his hand.
Premlatha had taken the folder lying on the chair in her hand. Prachi slid down the wall to crash on to the floor. Premlatha sat by Prachi stroking her head. "Maa, I love him. I have always loved him" Prachi hid her face in her mother's lap sobbing.
One month later...
"Welcome home Bhabhi" Sukruti had said finishing aarti to the newly wed couple.
Milind and Prachi had married in the court. They had a small party in a hotel later, which was attended by their near and dear ones. Ayesha and Varun had flown down from Canada with their son Avinash. Sukruti was there too with her in laws and husband. A couple of Milind's close friends were present for the occasion along with Ali and his family. Rashmi dressed in a black and red frock was in Milind's hands for most of the day.
"Prachi beta, your saree is gorgeous and you look so pretty today" said Mrs. Sharma as they all sat in Milind's living room. Prachi had worn the Kanjeevaram saree that Milind had bought her for her birthday.
"My Bhabhi is beautiful. Hain na Bhaiya?" Sukruti wanted her brother to ascertain her statement.
"Yes she is. But not as beautiful as you know what I mean Sukku" Milind had titled his eyes for a fraction of a second towards Mrs. Sharma which was only understood by Sukruti. Prachi too had wondered what he meant.
"Yes I know Bhaiya. You mean Bhabhi is not as beautiful as your sweet little daughter. Right Bhaiya?" Sukruti and Milind had laughed out loud letting others think these brother and sister are a crazy duo.
After a while, Sukruti had shown everyone their place to sleep for the night. Rashmi had still played with her cousin brother Avinash. Ayesha was trying to get the two children sleep while Rashmi insisted she will sleep with her mother as she normally did. Milind took Rashmi in his arms and told her she will sleep with her mommy and daddy tonight while Sukruti said "Bhaiya, if you make her sleep in your room tonight, she will demand you to arrange it with flowers every night. You better don't take her to your room tonight".
"Did you decorate my room? Who asked you to do that?" Milind had questioned his sister in whispers since he wasn't comfortable with the idea of decorating bed for the wedding night.
"I had to Bhaiya as I will never get this chance again. Now you give Rashmi in my hands and join Bhabhi in your room. Good night" Sukruti had taken Rashmi from his hands tempting her she will show her stars and the moon in the night sky along with Avinash. The two excited children had gone out with Sukruti to see the night sky.
"Beta, thank you very much for everything. You have brought life back to my daughter and eased the deepest pain of my heart" Premlatha had said to Milind who was waiting to thank him.
"Maa, if you call me your son, why are you thanking me? You will never say thanks to your son again" Milind had hugged Premlatha.
Prachi waited for Milind in his room, which was lavishly decorated with flowers. The past month had been the best time of her life. Milind had tenderly relieved her heavy heart making her open it to him, making her also realize how much he loved her. She couldn't still believe life had brought Milind to her. She had thanked her Almighty for granting her with all the happiness she could ever ask for. Her heartbeat rose as she realized Milind entering the room. Closing the door behind him, Milind sat near Prachi on the bed. They both had smiled at each other when their gazes met.
"Rashmi is with Sukruti" Milind said to break the silence.
"I know. Sukruti had told me" Prachi replied looking down.
"Ali invited us for a dinner next Sunday. Would you like to go?" said Milind.
"Why not? We will go for sure" said Prachi.
"Will Ayesha stay with us for a while? Her husband said he is leaving day after"
"She will be here with us for two weeks. What about Sukruti? It will be nice if she stays too"
"She is leaving on Saturday. She doesn't have many holidays"
After a few more random questions and answers Milind finally said what he was dying to say.
"Can I kiss you Prachi?"
Prachi bit her lower lip as she had prepared herself to answer one more of his casual questions. Her cheeks flamed and her face had lowered more than it already was. Not hearing anything from her side for a minute, Milind questioned her again. "Prachi, I asked you something."
Prachi knew she had to answer now. Shyly she lifted her head and said looking at him from a corner of her eyes "You don't need to ask my permission"
A smile played on Milind's lips and he had moved closer to her. Prachi closed her eyes and he lifted her chin with his thumb. His lips had soon reached her quivering ones while his other hand travelled from her shoulder to her neck. Prachi had gasped as he claimed her lips with passion. As he kissed her deeper, Prachi's hands had automatically clasped around his neck pulling him closer. Still kissing her Milind had laid her slowly on the bed. He had trailed kisses along her neck, her bosom and then along stomach making it unbearable for her. Soon she had held his face in her hands bringing it near her face making their lips had meet again in longing. Milind's hands had undone the pleats of her saree to reach out for her legs while she pressed her body to him in desire. Their craving for each other had reached its maximum making Milind undress both of them completely. Both were not in their senses at that point and that had led to Milind entering her while she had arched herself to reach out for him. They both had taken each other to the euphoric world of their love and Milind had whispered in her ear "I love you Prachi" pressing his lips to her ears, as she panted. Hearing the words that mattered the most to Prachi, her eyes had filled up and the tears travelled down her eye wetting Milind's cheeks.
"Prachi" Milind had called her name with love uniting their foreheads "I love you too Milind" Prachi had hiccupped. Milind had kissed her on her lips and when he pulled back Prachi asked him "Is this a dream or reality?". Milind had claimed her lips again and biting them harsh making her moan in pain. "It's all real Prachi. I am yours and you are mine. We are a family". Milind had hid his face by her shoulder. As the night progressed Milind and Prachi had given in to sleep and a life full of togetherness awaited them.
THE END
Epilogue- 10 years later
"Mannu, why did you do this? Do I ever tear your storybooks? Mom, ask this girl not to touch my things. I had bought this book with my prize money and she tore it" Rashmi had howled as she saw the first page of her new book-Chicken soup for the teenage soul- torn.
Mansi (Mannu) was born after 4 years of Milind and Prachi's marriage. Seeing a new book on Rashmi's study table, 6 year old Mansi had opened it in a hurry tearing the first page. As she wondered how to fix the damage, Rashmi had entered the room and was totally in tears to see her new book torn. Rashmi had won Rs.1000 as prize money from an interschool debate competition and Prachi had taken her to the Sapna book house and bought books with that money.
"I didn't do it intentionally Mom. I was just looking at it and it got torn" Mansi had tried to defend herself.
"What's the matter girls? Mom is busy in the kitchen" Prachi had shouted from the kitchen as she prepared dhoklas that Sunday evening.
Rashmi took the book from Mansi's hands and ran into the kitchen. "Mom, look at it. See what happened to the book we got this morning. Mannu tore it. Why does she have to touch my stuff? Ask her never go near my things. The other day, she stained my white skirt too"
"Mom, I didn't tear it. And I didn't stain your skirt either. Monty was chasing me as I refused to give him my colour palette. Who asked you to stand in my way when I was running?" Mansi had explained herself for what had happened three days ago when the neighbour's kid Monty had chased her in the garden.
Before Rashmi said anything more as an answer to her baby sister's explanation, Prachi had finished seasoning dhoklas. Keeping them aside, she took her two girls out of the kitchen and made them sit on the sofa in the living room.
"Mannu, you shouldn't tear your sister's books. You shouldn't tear any book. Now say sorry to your sister" Prachi asked her younger daughter to say sorry.
Mansi turned her face and didn't speak a word.
"Rashshu, she is your baby sister right? She is 6 years younger than you. She doesn't understand things as much as you do darling. Please forgive her this time. She won't do it again" Prachi tried to convince her elder daughter now.
"I know Mom. I always have to say sorry. She is always this little innocent baby" Rashmi had said mockingly.
"Why do I have to say sorry? I am not saying sorry" Mansi had ran out of the house into the garden and sat on the swing. Prachi had followed her to bring her back.
"Prachi, get me some water dear" Milind had then came back from finishing his tennis game with Ali.
"I will get you water. Mom is in the garden with her baby daughter" Rashmi said wiping her tears.
Milind was shocked to see Rashmi crying sitting on the sofa in the living room. "Rashshu, why are you crying darling? Tell your Paapa what's the matter?" Rashmi had narrated what had happened with her book to her father.
"Rasshu, wait a minute. I will set it right" Milind had got some special glue he had from his study table drawer. He masterfully stuck the torn parts of the book with the glue making it look almost not torn.
"Paapa, one can still see it was torn. This was the book bought with my prize money" Rashmi still had tears in her eyes.
Milind had wiped the tears off of her eyes and said "My darling daughter, please don't cry. It breaks your father's heart to see you crying. Let's go and buy the same book again. And I will also buy you a book shelf with doors. You can lock it so that your mischievous litter sister can't reach them".
"It's ok Paapa. You don't need to buy me a new book. It's just one page that's torn" Rashmi said as her tears stopped filling her eyes.
"No baby. This is your hard earned prize. Do you know how proud I was that it was my daughter who won among 100s of students? If it were to be some other book, I wouldn't have said it", said Milind.
"No, Paapa. You only say that one shouldn't waste money. I am fine with this book. And after the glue has dried you hardly see any damage" Rashmi held the repaired page into sunlight to show her father it was fine.
"OK, but get ready I want to take you somewhere" said Milind.
Rashmi got some water for Milind and changed into a jeans and T shirt. Milind too changed his clothes and got ready. As Rashmi and Milind were about to leave, Prachi came back from the garden after cheering up Mansi and leaving her in the garden to play with other kids.
"Prachi we will be back in a bit" Milind told Prachi taking his car keys.
"Where are you guys going? I have cooked dhoklas. Eat them and go" Prachi had tried to stop them but Milind and Rashmi left saying bye to her. Angry with her husband and daughter for walking out on her dhoklas Prachi sat watching TV.
Milind took Rashmi to a book house nearby and bought her a couple of "Archie comics" that she had recently fallen in love with. Rashmi was jumping with joy that her father gifted her with the comics she loved more than anything in her adolescent age. Milind also took her to an ice cream parlour where the father and daughter sat enjoying strawberry ice cream.
"You still love strawberry ice cream. All we needed to please you when you were a child was strawberries. But I still haven't figured out how to please your little sister" Milind had remembered Rashmi's childhood and compared it with Mansi's. Mansi was more stubborn compared to Rashmi.
"Paapa, don't you know? She has a weakness for Barbie doll accessories. Whenever I have to get something done from her, I give her my old Barbie accessories" Rashmi had proudly said that she knew her sister's weakness.
"Oh really?" Milind had wondered why Barbie dolls have accessories too.
Rashmi then seemed to be lost in some thought as she ate her ice cream. Milind tried to make her laugh a couple of times but she seemed unimpressed. Finally when Milind said they should be going home to eat dhoklas now Rashmi had stopped him to say "Paapa, I need to tell you something. I have been hiding it from you from a long time. I don't want to tell you but I feel guilty about it too"
Milind was surprised thinking what his daughter was talking about.
"Paapa, You are the best dad in the world. Even if my navy officer dad were to be alive, I would still have wanted to be your daughter. I love you Paapa" Rashmi had got up from her seat and hugged Milind who was still seated in his chair.
Milind hadn't known Rashmi knew about Neev. He had kissed her on her forehead, pulled her chair closer and asked her to sit there still stroking her head.
"When we were in Canada during my summer break last year, I overheard Naani telling Ayesha Mausi that Milind loves Rashmi as much as he loves his own daughter Mansi. I also knew you married Mom when I was two years old. I asked Naani to confirm the truth. Naani told me about my navy officer father. She asked me not to tell you or Mom that I know about this. But Paapa, I can never hide anything from you. I had started feeling I was cheating you by not telling you the truth. But I love you Paapa. I never felt you were not my real dad. I love you the most Paapa" Rashmi had said hiccupping.
"Rasshu baby, my darling. I love you too my dear. You are my angel daughter" Milind hugged Rashmi again. Prachi had called Milind's mobile then asking them to come home to eat dhoklas. Milind and Rashmi left for home then buying some ice cream for Mansi too.
As soon as they entered the house, Mansi came running to Rashmi and hugged her to say "Di, I am sorry".
"See Paapa. Now she is saying sorry as she wants me to read her Vikram Betaal" Rashmi teased her little sister.
"No di, Mom told me how important that book was for you. I am really sorry di" Mansi held her ears.
"Awww, it's ok my little baby sister" Rashmi tried to lift her sister in her arms. Milind had tickled Mansi then and Rashmi had joined him as the little girl laughed loud.
"Why don't you be all like this always?" Prachi said as she came out of the kitchen after reheating dhoklas. Mannu ate her ice cream and then started her kissing spree where she gave at least 100 kisses to everyone in her family going round and round.
"It would have been nice if Maa was with us too. When is she coming back? It feels like ages" Milind had commented as Premlatha had stayed back in Canada to be with Ayesha after Milind and his family holidayed there last summer.
"I will book her return tickets Milind. If not anything she will come back for the Bangalore weather" Prachi had replied.
Both children had requested their parents to get their grandmother back soon for they always shared a comfort with her that they didn't share with anyone else.
After dinner that night, Mansi had gone to sleep with Rashmi as Rashmi narrated her the story of a recent movie she had seen. Prachi sat reading a novel in her room while Milind worked on his laptop. After finishing checking his emails, Milind got into the bed while Prachi placed the bookmark on the page she was reading and closed her novel. As Prachi put her head on Milind's chest, Milind took a deep breath and said "Prachi, I need to tell you something. My daughter took a huge fear off of my heart today".
"I didn't understand Milind. What are you talking about?" Prachi was puzzled.
"I always feared the day Rashmi will come to know that I wasn't her genetic father. I knew we couldn't and shouldn't hide it from her forever. But today she told me she would want to be my daughter even if Neev was alive" Milind had said looking at the ceiling.
"But Milind how did she come to know about it?" Prachi asked feeling uneasy.
"She overheard some conversation between your sister and Maa. But Maa had told her not to tell us. Today my baby poured her heart in front of me as she couldn't hide it in her little heart anymore" Milind had a film of tears in his eyes while tears were dropping from Prachi's already.
Prachi got out of the bed and walked into the room where her children slept. She had gently fondled Rashmi's forehead and kept watching her for a while. Milind too had stood by the door watching Prachi. Prachi had kissed both of her children's foreheads and walked back to her room with Milind.
"Milind, Rashmi gets along much better with you than me. I can't thank you enough for giving her so much love" said Prachi with tears.
"Why wouldn't I love my daughter? " said Milind pulling Prachi into an embrace and continued to say "By the way Prachi you are thanking me again. Don't you remember your punishment you have to go through whenever you say thanks."
A shy smile decorated Prachi's lips as she thought about her punishment. Milind had made it a rule that she will need to kiss him on his lips whenever she said thanks to him.
Prachi stood on her toes making herself tall enough to reach her husband's lips with hers. Soon, Milind had slid his hands under her nightgown pulling her closer to him. The kiss had turned into a passionate one with Milind taking control of her lips. After they broke free, Milind lifted her in his arms to carry her to the bed. "You seem to enjoy your punishment" he had teased her as he pulled the sheet over them kissing her again.
Edited by ShubS - 16 years ago
Sports
Book Talk
Shiv Shakti
