Kuch Iss Tarah (from start to finish) - Page 7

Part 63

Milind had turned around to see Prachi lie in a heap on the floor part of him had wanted to shake her so hard her teeth would've rattled in her mouth but he knew his anger was inconsolable and it would only serve to aggravate her misery further. Picking her up in his arms he had sauntered to her room placing her on the bed he had informed the doctor of her condition and waited patiently till she checked her thoroughly. "She's fine Mr Mishra just very weak I'll start with her vitamins I'm sure that'll help" she had smiled reassuringly before exiting. Milind had cast a disdainful look at her unconscious form before calling Premlata up "Maa Prachi jaag gayi hai aap milna chahein to aa sakti hain" Mom Prachi has gained conciousness you can come meet her if you wish he realized she'd need consolation when she came around and who better than her mother. Besides there was a lot of explaining she had to do even to her mother she had kept them all in the dark it was time she started analyzing her actions and the repurcussions they had caused. Walking out of the room Milind was crushed to see Ali stand in the corridor talking to the doctor. His face depicted his internal anguish and Milind had a clear idea on what his friend was subjected to watching the love of his life try to take away her own life afterall he had gone through the same misery with Prachi. He clearly recalled the moment he had seen her pinned under Shashank every atom in his body had blown in a million shreds to witness her terror and then the ride to the hospital those were moments he feared that would haunt him for eternity. "I think you should seek counselling Mr Ali, she needs to vent her pain in a positive way else she might end up hurting herself again" and Ali had simply glared at him. What the hell did the doctor think she was a retard... that was the last straw, he clenched his fists in a supressed rage and chose to stay silent. "Thank you doctor we'll see what we can do " Milind had intervened placing his hand on Ali's shoulder his familiar touch had helped Ali relax and his muscles had laxed considerably. The doctor had walked away then guaging the raw tension that shot off Ali and could be felt from a mile.." Ali....Ali" Milind had addressed him "Kiya!" What he had snapped in visible anguish. "Tuu edha ho gaya hai kyun uss doctor kii bakwaas dil per ley raha hai" Are you nuts why are you taking the doctor's rubbish so seriously Milind had turned Ali to face him. "Tuu sun raha tha woh kiya bak raha tha... kiya samajhta hai woh usko khiskeyli nahin hai woh... ullu ka patha" You were listening to him what does he think she is, she's not mad Ali had seethed and Milind had hugged him hard. It was then that Ali had broken down completely as silent tears from his eyes disappeared in Milind's coat and his hands had clenched Milind hard his fingers digging in his back. Milind had let him relieve his pain holding on to him as he cried noiselessly. His friend had been through immense torture just because he had loved and Milind was not going to let him suffer any longer. Minutes later Ali had rubbed his eyes mercilessly he had never felt so weak and hated himself for being that way but he knew it was Milind with him. Milind... the one man he trusted with his life and the only one who understood what he was going through.

"Ali tuu ghar jaa ab" Ali you better go home now Milind had told him " Nahin main.." No.. I he had tried to resist when Milind had ordered him firmly "Mainey kaha ghar jaa Ali or ab tab tak nahin aana jab tak main na bulaun.. samjha." I said go home Ali and don't return till I call you Ali knew Milind was in a no nonsense mood because it was on rare occassions that Milind put up his elder brother attitude with him and this was one of the occassions. "Per Sapna"... But Sapna he reverted his eyes to her room "Main huun yahaan" I am here Milind had interjected and that had put a stop to any further discussion, casting a final look at him Milind had pointed to the exit "Go" he had said and Ali had obeyed. If Milind was this serious it meant no talk and that meant he would have to comply no matter what, there was this unspoken authority Milind pertained over Ali since Milind was six months elder to him. Interestingly even though Ali was always the emotional mentor and guide between the two the final word was usually Milind's and in almost all the cases it had turned to be worthy a decision. "Or ghar jaana Ali mujhko garage per dikha to do jhappad lagaunga kaan key neechey samjha" And go straight home if I see you at the garage it's not going to be good for you Milind had instructed before Ali had left on his bike. Milind had come to the conclusion that he was not going to let Ali make the mistakes he himself had made. He had been stupid enough to let Shashank ruin his happiness he simply could not let that demon haunt Sapna and shadow her impending happiness that he was sure rested with Ali alone. He had stepped in Sapna's room when Madhu had called him up "Sir there's a problem" she had informed him in a low voice. " What's wrong?" Milind had perked his ears he had sensed the news wasn't going to bring any relief ."Sir there's a phone call from Goa... Sapna".. "Yes what about her" Milind had tensed "Sir her mother passed away in a car accident today.. she's the only heir and well she's required to claim the body and for the last rituals". Milind had felt as if the last hope he harboured on Ali getting his life together was slipping away.. no he couldn't.. simply couldn't let fate play it's twisted game with his friend's life. "Madhu listen to me carefully, get two tickets to Goa you'r going there with Yug" he had instructed her "But Sir there's a meeting with the Canadian clients" Madhu had reminded him" Canada can wait do as I say go to Goa with Yug get the matter settled have the body cremated and tell the concerned personel that Sapna is hospitalized the reason she cannot make it. Don't divulge in details and don't breathe a word about all of this to anyone... not a word.. Am I clear Madhu?" he had questioned in a crisp tone. "Yes Sir" Madhu had understood the gravity of the situation she was the only one who had known about the actual incidents that had taken place on the night of the inauguration. The rest of the staff had been made to believe the story Vijay and Milind's associates had churned out but Milind had to let Madhu in on the secret since she was the one who had handled all activities in his absence. Including assistance in the various designs to fabricate his accident story.

Snapping the cell shut Milind had paced the room like a prisoner in a cell there still was a lot to be done though it could only be carried on only after Sapna awoke and it would'nt be long since the sedative adminitered was a light one. The doctor couldn't afford a higher dose of anasthesia keeping in mind her low blood count minutes seemed like hours and it felt as if an eternity had passed before Sapna had gained conciousness an hour later. She slowly managed to take in her surroundings her dismay on being alive still etched clearly on her face, her angst was further deepened when her eyes fell on Milind sitting nearby. She tried to get up and was taken aback to see Milind help her with it "Sir aap yahaan" Sir you... here it was the first time since the accident that they spoke to each other. "Hmm... kuch sawalon key jawab chahiye they tumsey" Wanted answers to a few questions from you he had informed her plainly and Sapna's eyes had lowered in guilt. "I'm sorry sir meri wajah sey aapko or Prachi ko itna kuch sehna para. Main pehley hii bata deti aapko Shashank key baarey main to yeh sab nahin hota. Mujhey maaf ker dijiye Sir" I'm sorry you and Prachi have had to suffer much because of me. If I would've told you about Shashank earlier all this wouldn't have happened she clearly was repentant and Milind had no wish to let her grovel any longer. "To tum maanti ho ghalati hui hai tumsey, gunehgaar ho tum.... kam az kam Prachi kii" So you accept that you've wronged you'r answerable atleast to Prachi he had questioned her and she had nodded her head in consent her eyes still fixed on her hands. "Dekho Sapna baat ko barhaaney sey koi faaida nahin mujhsey sirf eik sawaal ka jawab chahiye tumsey" There's no use in stretching the matter I just need one answer from you and Sapna had been forced to watch him stand next to her stare at her intently. From the looks of it she realized the matter was a serious one she had seen him this way only when he was extremely irked or agitated. Seeing her attentive Milind had put forward his proposal "Shaadi kerogi Ali sey?" Will you marry Ali? Sapna had gawped at him with wide eyes. " Aap yeh kiya keh rahey hain Sir, yeh nahin ho sakta" What are you saying this is impossible he had stated in a frenzy her mind swirling like a whirlwind. "Kyun nahin ho sakta?" Why not? Milind had counter questioned it had taken a lot of thought on his part to reach this decision. It was quite evident that Sapna had lost her family and keeping in mind her current mental state leaving her on her own would prove to be fatal. The only thing now was to get her to marry Ali somehow over time she would realize what to do with her life and as Milind hoped accept Ali as an essential part of it. "Main jaanti tak nahin unhain...." I don't even know him " Or ab tak yeh nahin jaan paayiii keh chahta hai woh tumhain paaglon ki tarah" And you haven't understood till yet that he loves you like mad Milind's voice was a note louder now and Sapna could see that every word he uttered was true. She had sensed Ali's interest in her as all women are able to somehow assess a man's point of view for them though she had never considered it to be love. But that did not give Milind a right to force her to get married to him how could she when the last thing on her mind was companionship of any kind.

"Eik pal sukoon nahin ussey tumharey liye tarap raha hai, jab sey tumhain dekha hai tab sey chahta hai. Aaj tak tumsey kuch kaha nahin kyunki woh bewaquf tumhari khushi chahta tha jo Shashank sey vaabasta thi." He doesn't have peace for a moment, he's loved you ever since he first saw you. He never said anything because he wanted your happiness which he believed rested with someone else Sapna had felt hot tears flow from her eyes how many people had she hurt in her quest for love. "Main maafi maang luungi unsey" I will apologize she had suggested "Or woh maaf ker bhi deyga, phir kiya hoga? Tum eik akeli zindagi jiyogi or woh tumhain yun ghut ker jeetey huey roz eik maut mareyga.. yehi chahti ho tum?" And he will forgive you but then what. You'll live a lonely life and he'll watch you lead it dying a new death each day. Is that what you want? Milind had enough of it and he had decided to be very clear about the entire deal. Taking her hands in his own he sat beside her " Haalat ko samjho Sapna, aaj tak tum apni khushian dhundti rahi or uska nateeja tum bhugat rahi ho... eik baar... sirf eik baar kisi or kii khushi key baarey main socho shayad tumharey dil ko bhi sukoon mil jaaye. Main yeh sab is liye nahin keh raha kyunki Ali mera bhai hai, balkeh iss liye bhi keh raha huun keh tumhari yeh haalat meri wajah sey hai. Tum jab tak khush nahin rehogi main parchchataab kii aag main jalta rehunga. Tum ney apna bacha kho diya meri wajah se, tum maa nahin ban sakti meri wajah sey. Mujh per ehsaan ker do... iss shaadi key liye maan jao Sapna" Understand the situation Sapna, all you ever did till now was run after your happiness and look what it had brought you. For a change try giving someone else their happiness you'll find your heart at peace. I'm not saying this because Ali is my brother but because I feel guilty for your condition. You lost your child because of me and are consequently barren because of me too. I won't feel forgiven till I see you happy. Do me a favour... say yes he had clasped her hands in his own hoping against hopes that she would concede. Her eyes searched him doubt clear in her own sandy ones and he had felt the need to assure her " Tumhari jagah meri apni behen hoti to bhi main yehi kehta" If my own sister would've been in your stead I'd have said the same and that was the final nail in the coffin. What had she to lose she had already lost everything Sapna had sighed in defeat she had this distinct feeling that this was the only way she could step on the road to redemption. "Kiya woh jaantey hain main..." Does he know ..she had gazed at Milind "Jaanta hai" He knows Milind had made her aware of her truth being known by Ali. "Phir bhi woh tayyar hain mujhey apnaney key liye" Then too he is willing to accept me? she had questioned shocked by the acknowledgement. "Pyaar sharton per to nahin kiya jaata" You don't love on conditions Milind had stated sadly before placing a heavy hand on her silken hair. "I promise Sapna koi pareshaani nahin honey duunga main tumhain bas merey yaar ko khush rakhna... uski khushi sey barh ker to kuch nahin merey liye" I promise Sapna I won't let any harm come to you just keep my friend happy. Nothing matters more to me than his happiness and Sapna had managed to shake her head in assent. Little had she known at that moment that the decision taken under pressure would turn out to be the most cherished one in her life. "Kiya main eik baar baat ker sakti huun unsey?" Can I talk to him once? she had inquired of him "Haan ker lena aata hii hoga thori der main" Sure he'll be coming in a while he had assented.

Prachi had awoken to find Premlata by her side she sat up swiftly "Maa Milind... Milind chaley jaayeingey mujhey chor key" Mom Milind... he will leave me she was panic stricken. Premlata found it hard to pacify her she had been extremely unhappy on Prachi's decision to deal with Shashank on her own but she was her mother first and foremost and could not bear to see her that way. "Beta kahin nahin gaya Milind, yahin abhi mila tha mujhey baahar" He's not gone anywhere I just met him outside she had taken her daughter's face in her palms and kissed her forehead but Prachi was hysterical now. "Maa mujhey jaana hai unkey paas.... abhi jaana hai" Mom I have to go to him... right now she cried bitterly embracing her mother who knew now was not the best time for a confrontation. Of what she had understood of Milind was that he had loved Prachi from the very core of his being and he had been terribly hurt by her silence. Moreover he considered himself responsible for Sapna's accident and Premlata had thought it fitting to let him lick his wounds in solitude. "Beta woh doctor key saath hai free hoga to aa jaayega" He's busy with the doctor he'll come as soon as he is free she had pacified her grieving daughter. "Maa Sapna kaisi hai?" How is Sapna? Prachi had questioned drawing out of her own throes she was reminded of the scene she had witnessed before her blackout. "Theek hai ab, Milind hai uskey paas" She's fine now Milind is with her it pierced Prachi's heart to think that Milind was at Sapna's side in this dark hour could he not once have visited her too. "Maa Milind aaye they kiya mujhey dekhney" Did Milind come to visit me? she had whispered fearing the answer to be in the negative. "Buhut baar aaya hai ussi ney mujhey bataya tumhain hosh aa gaya hai issi liye main milney chali aayi" Countless times he's the one who told me you were awake Premlata had smiled encouragingly and it was only the truth. The rest of the evening was a blur for Prachi the doctor had informed Premlata that they could take Prachi home as she was well enough though a steady supply of vitamins and prescribed medication was still necessary. Moreso Premlata had herself wanted her to return home soon since Preeti was missing out on both her parents and the little child could help Prachi recover speedily. Ali had reached th hospital to find Milind awaiting him Milind had not narrated his conversation with Sapna earlier to him he had figured it would be best for both to talk before he spilled the beans.

Sapna had looked up to find Ali stand near her visibly concerned for her "Tumhain kuch kehna tha" You needed to say something Ali had asked Milind had called him to inform that Sapna had wanted to have a word with him. "Aap mujhsey shaadi kerna chahtey hain?" You wish to marry me? Sapna had questioned without beating about the bush. "Haan" Yes Ali had assented "Kyun?" Why? Sapna had wanted to know his motives behind his actions. "Pyaar kerta huun tumsey" I love you pat had come the reply. "Deney key liye merey paas kuch nahin" I don't have anything to give she had clarified "Mujhey kuch nahin chahiye tumsey sivaaiye tumharey saath key" I don't need anything besides you'r companionship he had assured her. "Itney sapney kyun saja liye merey saath key sapney tuut jaaya kertey hain" Why did you dream so many dreams regarding our companionship, dreams shatter in the end she had murmured sadly "Tum meri haqeeqat ho sapna nahin waisey bhi sapnon ko sach kerna mujhey aata hai" You'r not my dream you'r my reality besides I know how to convert dreams to reality he had answered in an iron resolve. "Aap kabhi pita nahin ban sakeingey..." You'll never become a father she had reminded him "Khuda per bharosa hai mujhey qismat ka likha sirf mera maalik badal sakta hai insaan nahin... aulad hogi to tumhi sey warna nahin" I have complete faith in God he's the one who pens destiny not humans, if I am to have children they will be from you or then I won't have them he had told her in a clear decisive tone. "Aur kuch puchna hai?" Anything else? he had inquired "Mujhey sochney key liye waqt chahiye" I need time to think she had said dejectedly there was no way he was going to back from his decision now. "Saari umer bhi maang lo to duunga faisla tumhara hii hoga main un logon main sey nahin jo zabardasti kisi ko apna ker khushi mehsuus kertey hain. Tumhari khushi sey barh ker merey liye kuch nahin" Even if you require a lifetime I'll grant it but the decision will be your's. Nothing matters more to me than you'r happiness he had granted her a lifetime to think over her decision. "Itna yaqeen hai" So much faith Sapna had remarked "Itna pyaar hai" So much love he had corrected her "Tum aaram kero main chalta huun" Try resting I'll leave now he had turned towards the door though before exiting he had looked back as if struck with a thought. "Tumhaarey liye shayad zindagi key maainey nahin per merey liye tum buhut ehem ho is liye please kuch aisa mat kerna jis sey mujhey pachtana parey" You may not treasure you'r life but you'r precious to me so don't do anything that may cause me to repent Sapna understood he was requesting her not to divulge in any suicidal attempt after he left and she had nodded her head in assent. Ali had left then leaving Sapna to contemplate on her life ahead, she had promised her mother she would make her meet Shashank but it seemed Shashank was never meant to become her son in law.

"Kiya kaha ussney?" What did she say? Milind had inquired "Time maanga hai sochney key liye" She's asked for time to think Ali had informed him as both of them walked towards Prachi's room. "Ab?" Now? Milind had asked... "Intezaar" I wait Ali had smiled happy on the thought that atleast there was a faint hope on her consenting to the marriage. "Kitna waqt diya tuuney" How much time did you grant? Milind had wanted to know "Saari zindagi" A lifetime Ali had said and Milind had smiled "Phir to agley haftey teri baraat ley jaayeingey" Then we can have the wedding next week and Ali had grinned "Yeh bol na biryani khaani hai tujhey" I know you want to eat biryani and both had laughed aloud in unison. The twinkle in Ali's eyes confirmed Milind's belief that indeed Sapna would soon come around. Prachi had been discharged from the hospital that evening and was on her way home Milind drove the car in silence. Ever since their confrontation infront of Sapna's room they had not spoken to each other basically because Milind had avoided Prachi. He feared if he did indeed talk to her it would be his anger that would be unleashed and he had not wanted it that way. He realized they both needed space atleast he did to explain to himself that it was not worth persual he had never mattered to Prachi she may have helped him but then she had her reasons to. He intended to hand over the property papers to Premlata after he got over with Ali's wedding he could not stall that in any case. As Prachi had stepped in her room she had expected Milind to follow and then talk to her about the entire ordeal, he had always been the one to express his anger freely on her but this time it had been different. He had not held her responsible for anything just stated the facts and that Prachi feared was not a good omen she was accustomed to his bouts of fury and somewhere deep down in her heart she had sensed a solid fear take shape... fear of losing him altogether. Her bedroom was the same yet there was this emptiness that creeped inside her the moment she entered it. After waiting for him for around twenty minutes she thought it best to shower and change opening the cupboard she was astonished to see it stripped of his belongings. All his clothes had disappeared taking a closer look at the room she was further apalled to find his files and laptop missing. She sat down on the bed heavily she knew she had wronged but to be punished so cruelly for it was catastrophic in her opinion she did not deserve this atleast not after vesting an entire year in her relationship with him. She had stood up determinedly she needed to sort this out before it got worse but before she could leave he had entered the room. "Milind mujhey aapsey kuch kehna hai" Milind I need to talk to you she had addressed him only to receive a silent look from him. "Aap mujh sey khafa hain andaaza hai mujhey per aap samajh kyun nahin rahey, yeh sab mainey iss liye kiya kyunki main aapko takleef main nahin dekh sakti thii." I know you'r mad at me but I did all this because I didn't want to see you hurt He still hadn't uttered a single word yet stood watching her hands folded on his chest every pore in his body attentive yet mute. "Agar main aapko Shashank key baarey main pehley bata deti to aap kuch aisa ker detey jis sey aapko nuqsaan puhunchta... Milind aap sun rahey hain na" If I would've informed you earlier you could've hurt yourself are you listening to me she had gently touched his hand. "Or kuch kehna hai ya bas yehi" Anything else or this is it? he had inquired impassively and as she stared at him through teary eyes, did her acknowledgement of her mistakes not mean anything to him. He had then proceeded to hand her the cd she had forgotten at the hospital. "Kamaal hai na Prachi jis cd key liye tuu apni jaan tak deney ko tayyar thi wahin hospital main bhuul aayi" Interesting isn't it the cd you were hell bent on laying down your life for was left at the hospital by you he had remarked in a cold tone. Prachi had gasped in disbelief she had completely forgotten about the cd in her haste to get home how he came to possess it was still a mystery to her. "Bill deney gaya tha main Dr Deepa ney dii thi " I'd gone to pay the bill and Doctor Deepa gave it he had clarified "anyways ab mil gayi hai to aaj qissa hii khatam ker detey hain iska" anyways now that it's here we might as well finish off with it taking his lighter out from the desk drawer he had proceeded to light the cd up still holding it in his hands.

In moments the plastic was crumpled to a black char but before Milind could release it, the molten plastic had seared his palm. He winced as it burnt his flesh "Milind aapka haath" Milind you'r hand Prachi had tried to assess the wound when Milind had withdrawn his hand quickly closing his fist. " Rehney dey Prachi waisey bhi ab itney zakham hain keh ginti mushkil ho gayi hai" Let it be Prachi besides I've lost count on the wounds now he had proceeded to open the cupboard and pull out an important file he had forgotten there the sole reason for his return. "Milind aap kyun mujhey nahin samajhtey?" Why don't you understand me? she had cried in exasperation "Afsos Prachi main waqaii tujhey nahin samajh paaya per qasur tera nahin mera hai. Main hii ghalat tha aaj tak humaarey rishtey ko ghalat samajhta raha" It's a shame Prachi I never really did understand you I understand it's all my fault. I wrongly assumed our relationship to be what it never was even though his words were spoken staidly Prachi could feel the pain he was undergoing that moment. It was evident in the manner his eyes burnt in her everytime they settled on her "Aap mujhey sazaa dey rahey hain?" Are you punishing me? Prachi had inquired in despair. "Sazaa to mujhey mil rahi hai, or ab Prachi tujhey meri wajah sey yeh naatak kerney kii zarurat nahin. Main Baba ko sach bata chuka huun you'r free to leave, dhokha deney or khaaney kii himmat nahin rahi mujh main" I'm the one being punished for my sins you don't have to carry on with this act anymore I've told Baba the truth you'r free to leave, besides I'm fed up of cheating and being cheated on saying so he had left as suddenly as he had appeared. The week had passed in the blink of an eye since Milind had considered her his responsibility he had decided to get Sapna married from his house. Ali had protested against having a grand affair but Milind had not relented no matter what the past was the future looked bright and promising. Sapna had wanted to inform her mother but Milind had explained that she had been informed of her accident and had gone to Haridwar to pray for her. He told her too that he had indeed informed her about her daughters wedding and she had sent her blessings promising to try her best to make it in time for the wedding, hollow consolations but that was all Milind could offer for the moment. Having told Ali the details about her mother's sad demise Milind had considered it best to let her abstain from having yet another fatal blow being dealt to her. Incidently Aalia begum had come along to set the date for Saadia's wedding and Milind had found it fitting to get both brother and sister married on the same day. Ali was dead against it considering it his responsibility to get Saadia wedded off but Milind had quietened him telling him that Saadia was as much his sister as Ali's. The entire preparation was done in a matter of days Mishra house was all set for two weddings to go through and by the end of it Milind hoped he could relocate the Shah family to their rightful place.... Shah mansion.

Part 64

Milind had shifted to his beach view apartment he had found it best to distance himself from Prachi. Even though he knew he loved her like mad and she loved him unconditionally there was this distinct fear that had gripped his heart that night when she had attempted to suicide. It was clear love was a curse for him Kaajal had suicided because she loved him and Prachi had followed her foot steps. He had lost Kaajal but simply could not afford to forfeit Prachi. If he was damned and destined to live a life devoid of companionship he would bear it but he couldn't stand and watch the most important woman in his life consider it apt to risk herself for his well being. He had not spoken to Prachi neither had he let her clear her stand he knew what she had to say, he understood she had done it all for him but then what if someone else came along and threatened to hurt him would she do the same? Crucify herself at love's altar, die because he had a fate similar to a punch bag, how could he... how could he be selfish to desire her love yet deprive her of the right to live. His absence in the house had been noted by all but they had deemed it best not to interfere in the husband and wife's personal matter. Only three days were left to go to the big day Milind had finalized everything right down to the last detail. Sapna had currently occupied a guest room next to Daadi's. The nurse appointed for Daadi's care was instructed to look after her too and since she had been on complete bed rest the wounds had healed considerably. Ali had visited Sapna every single day since she had switched abodes though his visits had been short yet they had helped Sapna accept his presence in her life if not of a companion then of an acquaintance. He would bring her tulips since she loved them the first time he had brought fresh flowers for her she had been surprised. "Aapko kaise pata mujhey yeh pasand hain?" How did you know I liked them? she had inquired and Ali had simply smiled "Jo pasand aa jaaye uski pasand zindagi ban jaaya kerti hai." You start remembering things about the people you love. He had placed them in the china vase near her bed watching her lovingly and she had touched their petals tenderly. "Tabiyat kaisi hai ab?" How do you feel now? he had asked "Jii behter hai" Better Sapna had avoided his gaze the raw passion she saw in his eyes for her made her wallow in guilt she simply did not deserve it all. Placing his hand on her cheek he had lifted her face to his own their eyes had met then " Nazrein mujrim jhukaya kertey or tum meri nazar main khatawaar nahin, pyaar to sab hii kertey hain tum ney bhi kiya or ussey paaney kii chahat bhi rakhi.Yeh gunah to nahin mujh sey nazrein mat churana Sapna in main duub jaaney kii buhut aarzoo hai meri" Don't avert your eyes you'r not a criminal neither have you wronged in my view. You loved and desired to attain it all humans do that. I long to drown in the depths of your eyes and her eyes had clouded while Ali had left considering it best to let her come to terms with the situation in solitude.

There was an awkward uneasiness that Sapna felt when Ali was around she felt indebted to him and that had hurt Ali. Milind had guaged his trepidation as he stood in his room watching the birds chirp in happiness while his heart bled mutely. "Kiya hua Ali... pareshaan kyun hai?" What happened ali why are you perplexed? Milind had inquired he had noticed Ali had been listless ever since he had met Sapna that evening. " Yaar Milind hum theek ker rahey haina? Mera matlab hai woh sirf teri wajah sey ker rahi hai yeh shaadi.... kia woh kabhi mujhey accept ker paayegi." Milind do you what we're doing is right? She's marrying you for me will she ever be able to accept me? Doubts shone like burning candles in his eyes and Milind had sighed. " Tuu or main dono jaantey hain ussey terey ilawa koi nahin sanbhal sakta ab to privaar bhi nahin raha uska reh gaya pyaar to kiya tujhey apney pyaar per bharosa nahin?" You and I both know you'r the only one who can help her get through this. As for love don't you believe in your's? Milind had asked in a slow gentle voice. "Yaqeen hai tabhi to itna intizaar kiya ussey khush dekhney key liye per kiya main ussey khush rakh sakunga?" I have faith in my love the reason I waited so long to see her happy. Do you think i will keep her happy? and the question had triggered Milind who had chuckled. "Mujh sey puuch raha hai... jaisey mainey PHD kii hai iss main..." You'r asking me as if I've acquired a degree in it he had smiled clapping Ali on his broad shoulders "Sab theek ho jaayega Ali thora waqt dey ussey mujhey yaqeen hai terey pyaar key aagey uska dil pighal jaayega" Everything's gonna be ok Milind just give her time she'll surrender to your love soon he had assured him returning back to the guest list he was finalizing. "Tuu Prachi sey kyun duur jaa raha hai Milind?" Why are you distancing yourself from Prachi? Ali had asked taking a seat on Milind's bed and Milind's fingers had stopped calculating momentarily. "Tujh sey kis ney kaha yeh?" Who told you that? Milind had inquired eyes still focused on the numbers the calculation a total mess now. " Mujhey puchney kii zarurat nahin dikh raha hai, kyun ker raha hai aisa tuu jaanta hai tujh sey pyaar kerti hai woh. Yeh kaisi zid hai teri keh woh kaheygi to maaneyga" I can see myself, why are you doing this? What stubbornness is this? Ali had questioned irritated with Milind's behaviour with Prachi since the last few days.

"Zid..." Stubbornness Milind had repeated as if hearing the word for the first time "Kab kii hai mainey zid Ali... yaad nahin. Yeh zid nahin zarurat hai... woh chahti hai mujhey maanta huun main chahta huun ussey yeh bhi jaanta huun. Per kiya chahat zindagi sey barh ker hoti hai?" When have I ever acted stubborn I don't remember... we love each other I know that. But is love larger than life? he had asked Ali. Even though his head was bent low Ali could make out the anguish that was writ large on his face. "Kiya matlab hai tera?" What do you mean? Ali had inquired skeptical on Milind's new idea of distancing himself from Prachi. "Uss ney Shashank kii baat maani merey liye kal ko koi aur boleyga keh mujhey nuqsaan puhunchaiyega to kiya woh phir sey marney puhunch jaayegi... kiya faida aisey pyaar ka jis main dukh key sivaiye kuch nahin... kiya diya mainey aaj tak ussey koi khushi na koi vaada bas eik umeed woh bhi shayad uskey laiq nahin thi. Woh merey bina khush raheygi Ali.. ussey jaana hoga mujhsey buhut duur." She acceded to Shashank's threats because she thought my prestige was endangered so what any Tom dick or Harry comes along and threatens to hurt me she'll suicide again.... As for love what has my love given her.. no happiness, no promises a faint hope that wasn't even apt for her. She's better off without me... she must staw far away from me. Milind's voice retained finality and Ali had stared at him in disbelief. "Tuu paagal ho gaya hai Milind woh mar jayegi terey baghair" Are you mad she'll die without you he had crried in fury. This was ridiculous Milind was pushing her away because he thought his love made her vulnerable an easy target, it was lunacy. "Merey baghair ka to pata nahin... merey saath zarur mar jaayegi" Dunno about without me but with me yes she certainly will die Milind had remarked shutting his lap top close. He realized if he stayed there any longer Ali might just black mail him into doing something he did not wish to adhere to since he knew his first idea to get him patch up with Prachi was to refuse getting married himself. As he turned to the door he stood frozen there balancing a tea tray in her hands stood Prachi her face though did not betray any emotion and Milind wondered how much of the conversation had she heard. Prachi had been asked by Premlata to serve Milind and Ali the evening tea in her bedroom as they did some last minute budgeting for the weddings."Chai" Tea she had stated "Mujhey nahin peeni" I don't want to drink it Milind had replied before exiting the room. The more he tried to stay aloof the more they crossed paths he wondered how much more suffering had to be borne by him and the people he loved before his life ended for good.

He had passed Sapna's room to see her deep in conversation with Premlata " Aunty aap ko jo theek lagta hai kijiye" Aunty you can do whatever you wish he had heard Sapna say as Premlata sat overlooking a display of sarees for her dowry. "Beta pehenna to tumko haina... waisey bhi Milind ney kaha tha jo bhi tumko pasand aa jaaye tumhain dila duun. Ab tum shopping chal nahin sakti to mainey yeh designs ghar per mangwa liye choose ker lo jo tumko pasand hain main phir unhain pack kerwa duungi" Child Milind has asked me to get you these sarees since you can't go shopping I had them brought here choose the ones you like and Sapna nodded her head in assent. Premlata had placed a loving hand on her head and had tried to pacify her. "Dekho beta shaadi do din ka nahin zindagi bhar ka faisla hai. Tumhaarey baarey main zyaada to nahin jaanti per itna zarur jaanti huun tum Prachi kii hum umer ho or merey liye beti jaisi. Ali buhut acha larka hai ussey thora waqt dena mujhey yaqeen hai tumhain iss shaadi sey sirf khushian mileingi" See child marriage is a life long commitment I dunno much about you but you are similar to Prachi a daughter to me. Give Ali time I'm sure he'll prove to be a source of everlasting happiness for you Premlata had then exited the room only to find Milind stationed outside it "Thanks maa" he had remarked with gratitude and Premlata had patted his cheek smiling at him. "Ab to bhabhi ho gii yeh tumhaari or Ali to tumhaari jaan hai phir itna to kerna hii tha mujhey apney betey key liye" She's your best friend's wife to be how could I not do this for my son Milind had smiled in return joining her for tea in the hall downstairs. Daadi had recovered largely and was often seen mingling with the other family members now too she sat sipping tea with Bua, Naintara and Baba as Milind took his seat Ramu kaka poured him a cup of tea. "Milind ab to Preeti do saal kii ho jaayegi... or shaadi ko bhi waqt guzar gaya.. khushkhabri kab suna raha hai tuu" Milind Preeti is two years old now your marriage too has been quite a while ago so when are you giving the good news? Bua had questioned him biting in a biscuit. Milind's eyebrows had raised in question "Kaisi khushkhabri?" What news? he simply had no clue on what Bua was hinting. "Ab eik pota hona chahiye na merey bhai key ghar bhi" My brother should have a grand son now Milind who had just taken a sip of his tea spat it out that instant. "Kiya hua chai garam hai?" Is the tea hot? Prachi had asked her face blank. As Milind watched her with silent eyes she took the cup from him and stirred the tea with a spoon staring at him with hurt eyes all the while. "Phir beta kiya socha tuu ney ?" So what have you thought? Bua had questioned Milind again "Bua abhi Preeti buhut choti hai main nahin chahta uskey hissey key pyaar main koi kami aaye or filhaal merey liye meri beti hii kaafi hai" Preeti is too young right now I don't want anyone sharing her love she's sufficient for me he had replied in a calm and collected manner. Picking up his coat and laptop he had thought it best to leave before he was further interrogated on family planning.

"Suniye" Listen Prachi had called Milind before he crossed the last step he had turned around to watch her stand there with his cup of tea "Chai nahin peeni mujhey" I don't want tea he had tried to evade a conversation. "Woh Preeti ka janam din hai kal.... " It's Preeti's birthday tomorrow she had reminded him "Jaanta huun tayyari ker lii hai mainey shaam ko party kii" I know I've prepared for the party for her saying so he had left leaving a crest fallen Prachi behind. How could he forget his daughter's birthday he lived because she breathed her birth was the most memorable event in his life, worth celebrating too. Prachi had watched him leave in haste Milind had not known but Prachi had heard every word he had uttered to Ali earlier. So he thought she would give up her life for him, not a wrong assumtion since she had done exactly the same she realized what a fool she had been to not confide in Milind earlier. Her stupidity had caused him to back away from their relationship leaving a void Prachi could not bear any longer. His absence had killed her his passionate gazes and gentle touch haunted her she craved him, loved him, desired him and understood that the only way out of this mess was to make him see all that. She would've stood contemplating on the issue further had Ali not interrupted the traquility "ab bhi soch rahi ho Prachi?" You'r still thinking? he had inquired extremely irritated with her silence. "Kaho uss sey key pyaar kerti ho uss sey warna kho dogi ussey. Rok lo ussey Prachi iss sey pehley keh wat deewar ban jaaye" Tell him you love him. Stop him before it's too late it pained him to think that both the people he cared for the most were subjecting themselves to self torture all because of a minor misunderstanding.

The day was hectic Prachi had found it difficult to manage the planning on her own the whole house seemed alive all of a sudden on top of that Preeti had decided to act cranky chanting for a certain tricycle Ramu Kaka had stowed away somewhere. It was Preeti's second birthday and Milind had organized a grand party to celebrate the auspicious occassion that evening. Prachi stood flustered Milind had not shown up as she had expected and now she stood in the middle of the hall with the servants awaiting her orders. She had never organised a party on her own moreover she feared Milind's fury which was bound to unleash on her if the event did not go as planned by him. She was saved though as soon the event manager was at the door with his team they had been sent by Milind and Prachi had found herself being extricated from a burden. Swinging Preeti to her side she had carried her to the room "Mumma kykcle!!!" she screamed in agitation. "Preeti be a good girl na jaan. Doodh pii lo phir duungi cycle, dhund to lein mumma cycle" Drink your milk and let mumma find the cycle first then she'll give it she had soothed her putting the bottle to the lips settling her in her warm lap. Preeti had been awake since early morning and hadn't slept that afternoon the reason she was grumpy and upset. She had gently rocked Preeti patting her softly till the child had drifted to sleep placing her on the bed Prachi had sorted her accessories for the evening. Milind had already brought a satin white gown for his daughter complete with gauze wings and a wand she was to dress up like a fairy.... daddy's little princess. Prachi had smiled taking out the dress she found matching shoes and hair pins with it Milind never left anything incomplete.

The thought had made Prachi disheartened he cared for everyone except himself deeming himself responsible for others losses but She understood it was time she set the record straight. After pressing their clothes for the evening Prachi had made her way downstairs, Milind might have tried to run away from her but she very well knew this was her home and he her destiny everything related to him mattered and so did Preeti's big day. She ran a detailed look on the men at work only three hours to the party and things were going real slow. "Bhaiyya zara jaldi kijiye" Please do it fast Prachi had requested them seeking Kaka to inquire about the menu. She was though surprised to see Sapna Premlata and Naintara busy making samosas "Arey Sapna tum yahaan kaisey tumhain to aaram kerna chahiye na" Prachi had immediately reprimanded her. "Woh uper kamrey main bore ho gayi isi liye aunty mujhey neechey ley aaiyein theen" I got bored in my room so aunty brought me downstairs she had replied nervously. It was the first time since the accident that the two had conversed. "Prachi can I talk to you?" Sapna had requested and Prachi had led her to the lawn outside. "Jo kuch bhi hua uskey" Whatever happened ... "Tum zimmedaar nahin" You'r not responsible for it Prachi had cut in "Meri apni bhi buhut ghalatiaan hain jinka ilzaam main tumhain nahin leney dey sakti" I can't make you take the blame for my mistakes as well Prachi had sighed sadly "meri wajah aaj yeh sab ho gaya agar mainey Milind ko pehley bata diya hota to... to Sapna tumhari zindagi kharab nahin hoti." all this has happened because of me if I had informed Milind earlier ... you wouldn't have been this way Prachi was genuinely repentant and Sapna already knew she was not to blame. " Shashank ko tum or main dono bhugat chukey hain is liye apney aap ko ilzaam mat do, yeh to qismat main likha tha ho gaya" You and I both have known Shashank so don't blame yourself Sapna had squeezed Prachi's hand gently and Prachi had smiled through clouded eyes. "Tum naraaz to nahin mujhsey Prachi?" Are you angry with me Prachi? Sapna had asked hope flickering in her eyes and in answer Prachi had hugged her warmly "bilkul nahin" not at all she had whispered smiling. They had walked together discussing her wedding when Prachi sensed Sapna had worn out and guided her inside leaving her finish her fruit juice under Daadi's watchful eye who sat chatting to Bua on their attires for the evening. Prachi had remembered Preeti's quest for her tricycle and decided to locate it before she awoke and cried her eyes out again.

She had seen Barbie ride a bicycle on TV that morning and had been pretty unhappy to find her ride missing. Tracking down Ramu Kaka Prachi inquired about the cycle's location it appeared the old servant had locked it away in the store room since he kept tripping over it. Taking the keys from him she had proceeded towards the room happy that it was still in one piece. Once there she rummaged through musty books and used items to find it wedged between an old cupboard and a trunk. Waddling through the mess she reached it and pulled at it in the process she lost her balance and fell hard against the cupboard. Pulling herself together she managed to stand up her ankle hurting badly wondering why in the world did Kaaka take such great pains to conceal it so far away. The tug and pull would've continued had she not spied a photograph that had made it's way out of the cupboard probably set loose when she landed againt it causing one of it's doors to open slightly. She bent down to retrieve it and was surprised to see Milind smiling with an enchanting girl in the picture. Something about the woman appeared familiar Prachi mused on it silently her eyes fixed on the dimple in her cheek, didn't Preeti have an exact same one on the same cheek. Could it be Prachi had pondered could she be Kaajal.... the sole reason for Milind's melancholy and misery. She was the one woman who had changed Milind completely intrigued Prachi had opened the cupboard to find a black file, it was the same one Milind had taken away from her while she cleaned their bedroom wardrobe a month earlier. Opening it curiously Prachi had started reading the more she read the more she wished she had known about it all earlier. There was a diary too and Prachi had scoured through at the end of it she had crumpled to the floor sobbing why had Milind never told her. Why did he have to suffer in solitude she needed answers and Milind was the only one who could provide them.

Dinner being over with a few young couples took to the floor Milind had requested a famous singer to grace the auspicious occasion the guests had clapped as he had finished his mellifluous strain. The children had again taken to the lawns there were still countless games to be played while their parents entertained themselves to a song or two. "On this rather eventful and memorable occasion I would like the proud parents to say a few words." The singer had then handed the mic to Prachi who had shaken her head in disapproval but Ali and Saadia had ushered her towards the stage where she stood bathed in the spotlight numb and silent. "I've heard Mrs Mishra you sing very well, so what about a song" the crooner had tried to help her loosen up a bit and Prachi had felt her palms sweat. Maybe this was destiny maybe it had to happen this way she had watched Milind look at her with longing eyes and had concentrated on singing closing her eyes she had hoped to relay her feelings to him through this song.

Saare sapne kahin kho gaye..
Haaye hum kya se kya ho gaye..
Saare sapne kahin kho gaye..
Haaye hum kya se kya ho gaye..

Dil se tanhaai ka dard jeeta
Kya kahein hum pe kya kya na beeta..
Dil se tanhaai ka dard jeeta
Kya kahein hum pe kya kya na beeta..
Tum na aaye, magar jo gaye..
Haaye hum kya se kya ho gaye..
Saare sapne kahin kho gaye..
Haaye hum kya se kya ho gaye..

Tumne humse kahin theen jo baatein..
Unko dohraati hain ghum ki raatein..
Tumne humse kahin theen jo baatein..
Unko dohraati hain ghum ki raatein..
Tumse milne ke din to gaye..
Haaye hum kya se kya ho gaye..
Saare sapne kahin kho gaye..
Haaye hum kya se kya ho gaye..

Koi shikva na koi gila hai..
Tumse kab humko yeh ghum mila hai...
Koi shikva na koi gila hai..
Tumse kab humko yeh ghum mila hai...
Haan naseeb apne hi so gaye..
Haaye hum kya se kya ho gaye..
Saare sapne kahin kho gaye..
Haaye hum kya se kya ho gaye..

The song had come to an end as she slowly opened her eyes Prachi could see the crowd gathered watch her mesmerized. Her silken voice had blessed the song an undying charisma coupled with heart wrenching music it had the audience spell bound. Tucking her invisible strands behind her ear she had handed the mic back to the singer and that had caused the people assembled to snap back to reality a deafening applause soon reverberated within the hall. "Mrs Mishra that was magical" the singer had applauded her but it was one man alone who had understood her complaint, comprehended her ache and had refused to meet her anticipating eyes. As Prachi had lowered her reticent eyes Milind had lifted his to see her wipe away tears that had found their way on her flushed cheeks.

Milind had done his part helped Preeti cut the cake tended to the guests chatted and smiled with them but now he felt exhausted he wished to retire to his apartment away from the madding crowd. He had cast a frustrated look around him opening his shirt buttons and took a deep long breath looked like he too could bid adieu. Most of the guests had left and the few who were there were making their final farewells he wondered where Prachi was. Preeti had fallen asleep half way through the party and had been taken to her grandfather's room where they both had retired to bed calling it a night. Premlata and Naintara were busy seeing off the guests, Ali sat on one of the couches watching a soccer match he simply couldn't miss Man United playing. Bua and Daadi were slowly hobbling to their rooms Ramu Kaka, Saadia and Sapna were clearing away the table with the other servants in tow. Everyone was there except Prachi where could she be, probably sitting in some remote corner of the house trying to abate her misery. Milind felt guilty of giving her the cold shoulder each time she had approached him maybe he should've let her talk and then what he'd have told her he loved her wished to spend every single moment of his life with her. Would that change anything? Change the fact that he wasn't meant to be with her.. with anyone for that matter. He hadn't been able to take care of Kaajal how could he take the responsibility of yet another woman who loved him with the same intensity and was ready to lay her life for him. Did he deserve such pure untainted love.. what had he done to earn it.... nothing but maybe... just maybe he could steal a final glance at her before he left. Harbouring such hopes he sought her in the hall, kitchen, the rooms, the lawns outside but was unable to locate her anywhere. Her absence was not noted by anyone and Milind had felt panic rise within him "Ali tuu ney Prachi ko dekha kiya?" Ali have you seen Prachi? he had questioned his friend who gobbled up fistfuls of popcorn... "Nayyiii" No he had grunted eyes fixed on Ronaldo steer the ball towards the goal post.... "Yes yes yes!!! Ronaldo.. arey... dekh saaley marwayega look ahead you idiot.... teri to saaley cheater you cheater" he jumped up in anger as an opponent snuck the ball from under Ronaldo's foot and Milind had known then nothing else was going to register to him besides the ball on the screen. Shaking his head he had ascended the stairs again maybe she was in her room he probably hadn't looked properly. He trudged there to find the lights switched off only the table lamp was glowing he would've turned back had he not seen what he assumed to be a hallucination. He stepped inside and flipped on the lights to feel the room greatly altered though everything was the same yet there was this distinct feeling of emptiness that crept in him as he walked in. His photograph with Prachi on the bedside table had been replaced with his photograph with Kaajal . On the bed lay the black file he had attempted so hard to hide from Prachi wished never to see it again but there it was in its full glory mocking him, that could only mean one thing she knew the truth. But if she had why had she not confronted him yet? Or maybe she had considered it best to let it be he couldn't blame her either wasn't that what he himself, had wanted her to distance herself from him.

"Aaj Prachi bhi chali gayi magar main ussey nahin kho sakta tujhey to shayad itna jaana bhi nahin Kaajal shayad woh waqt sahi nahin tha ya shayad qismat hii nahin thii per Prachi zindagi hai meri uss key bina main kuch nahin.... kuch nahin. Woh mujhey chor ker nahin jaa sakti uskey beghair to mera jeena marna sab beykaar hai" Even Prachi left today but I cannot lose her I didn't even get to know you properly maybe I was never destined to or maybe that time had not been right but Prachi is my reason to live I'm nothing without her... nothing. She cannot leave me my life is incomplete without her with those final words Milind had stood up revived. This was no time for self pity she was out there all alone it was probably midnight and certainly not an appropriate hour for her to be away from home. He had to tell her that he wanted her loved her and would make her his forever she needed to know he had mourned over Kaajal partly through sympathy partly due to childhood association and partly for love though what he felt for her was nothing matched to his feelings for Prachi. Yes he assented he had loved Kaajal but not with the ardor he felt for Prachi with her it was him free of all obligations, fears or concerns he was himself with her. Though lately that had changed he had put up a charade one that had cost him too much pain and her trust. Sprinting down the stairs he had raced to where Ali sat dozing off "Ali" he hurriedly shook his arm "Hmm" he had answered drowsily. "Ali Prachi nahin hai... Prachi chali gayi" Ali Prachi is not there... she has left he had informed him through wet eyes "Chali gayi matlab?" Not there meaning? Ali had jumped up in alarm. "Pata nahin kahaan gayi usskey kaprey bhi nahin hain kahaan gayi hogi woh" I don't where she is even her clothes are missing where can she go?dread clear in his eyes. "Ghar main .." Have you searched her in the house Ali had started "Dekh liya sab jagah nahin hai" I've checked everywhere Milind had cut in and they had then exited the house asking Ramu Kaka to await their return. The guards stationed at the gates had informed them that they had seen her leave in a taxi with her luggage probably headed for the bus station Ali had commanded them to answer in the exact way when questioned by Milind regarding Prachi. Ali and Milind had split then Ali had left on his bike towards the bus stand while Milind had headed towards the railway station. It had been an arduous search for Milind who had checked all the passenger lists for the trains left and bound to leave, scoured the platforms, checked each bogie but to no avail she wasn't there.

Cold fear gripped him as he staggered on the platform a lost soul running from one passenger to the other praying to spot Prachi amidst the thronging mass, maybe Ali might have had luck he had called his friend to receive an answer in the negative. Where was he going to find her gunning his car engine he sped towards the airport maybe she was planning on leaving by air. Once there he had asked his friend Ravi Bakshi an official at the airport to help him out, they had made countless calls for Prachi over the speakers, run through the entire list of passengers left earlier that evening and scheduled to leave that night but her name was not there she had never checked in. With each passing minute Milind could feel his heart beat declining calling Ali again he had asked him to meet him at the local police station where he intended to file a missing person's report he had to find her at all costs. "Inspector agar aap inhain jaldi dhund dein to" Inspector if you can find her soon Milind had requested the irritated officer who had had a long day himself and was about to check out when Milind had walked in. He was in no mood to form a search party at that late hour for a woman who hadn't even been lost twenty four hours. "Dekhiye Mr Mishra abhi unhain lapata huey chaubees ghantey bhi nahin huey humaari karavaai main waqt lageyga" Look Mr Mishra she hasn't even been lost twenty four hours our search will require time the Inspector had waved him off carelessly. Milind who was already at his wits end had grabbed him by the collar "Chaubees ghantey main ussey kuch ho gaya to zimmedaar kon hoga mujhey woh chahiye Inspector or iss sey pehley keh teri vaat laga duun main dhundo ussey jaa ker" And what if something happens to her in twenty four hours who will be responsible. Before I make you repent every breathe you take find her he had threatened the officer. "Milind chor paagal ho gaya hai tuu" Leave him alone Milind have you gone crazy Ali had wrenched his friend off the inspector if Milind continued to behave that way he could very well end up behind bars and that was not what he had intended. Prachi had not left for anywhere she had simply hid behind the heavy lace curtains and as planned was supposed to await their return in her bedroom after Ali and Milind had left to search for her. Ali had thought Milind would return home after hunting for her at the railway station but Milind had proved him wrong now they sat in a police station with Milind fast losing control over his patience which was definitely not a good omen. " Inspector hum do ghantey baad aap ko phone kereingey is beech agar aapko kuch information mil jaaye to aap humain call ker lijiyega" Inspector we'll call you after two hours if you get any information on her in between you can call us Ali had tried to make peace with the official who glared at Milind as if he would eat him raw how dare he reprimand him in front of his juniors. "Pata nahin kahaan kahaan sey aa jaatey hain mun utha ker or tum to ho hee badnaam pehli biwi ko maar diya dusri key saath bhi zor zabardasti kii hogi tabhi to bhag gayi woh....." I don't know where they all come from and besides you are famous for your ill treatment of your wife killed the first one the second probably ran off with someone to escape your torture and that had been the final straw for Milind who had sprung up from his chair as if electrocuted.

Milind had entered his room in deep thought maybe all of them were right what right did he have to hold Prachi to him specially when she herself didn't want to stabilize a relationship with him. Ali was the one who had perenially believed in him given him hope infused courage in him in his darkest moments but if he too thought Prachi was better off without him then maybe that was the stark reality he had just been too blinded by passion to see it. Prachi stood concealed behind the curtains she had heard his foot steps on the landing and had resumed her hiding position. Ali had bid her to do this, act out this drama he had told her to abscond the party and lie in wait behind the curtains as he suspected Milind to do a quick survey and then rush out to retrieve her keeping in mind her stripped wardrobe. Milind had reacted quite the same only Ali had failed to estimate the lengths he would go to in his quest for her. Ali had expected this motion to charge Milind up and allow him to vent out the melancholy, angst and the hurt he festered in his heart he had to get over with the assumption that he had caused Kaajal and Prachi countless woes, that he alone was the reason for their problems. With his back to her Prachi had noiselessly closed the bedroom door "Prachi tuu ney bhi yaqeen nahin kiya mujh per, tuu to kehti thii merey baghair jee nahin sakti to dekh na aaj main yahaan huun ... per tuu nahin hai Prachi ... tuu nahin hai.. kahin nahin hai... kahaan sey laaun main tujhey Prachi... kahaan sey... kaisey bataun tujhey kitna pyaar kerta huun main tujh sey... kitna" Prachi you too didn't believe me, you used to say you couldn't live without me I am here today yet you are not with me.... you are not here ... where do I bring you from Prachi.... from where... how do I tell you how much I love you... how very much Milind had wept like a child. Taking out Prachi's photograph from the drawer he had replaced it with Kaajal's photograph Kaajal had been his past but Prachi was his present and future. He had made the mistake of dwelling on the past for too long his palm burnt to the touch yet the pain was far less compared to the misery he felt on losing Prachi. He had thrown away the photo frame in sorrow falling on the bed dropping his head in his palms he squeezed it mercilessly . "Milind!" Prachi had called him out and he had jerked his head in wonder it was her voice, was he dreaming... was she here? He stood up in anguish "Prachi.. PRACHIII!!!" he hollered in hope of hearing her voice again. "Milind" Prachi had cried appearing from behind him and he had filled her in his arms shedding tears of happiness his lips smiling in elation. "Prachi tuu kahaan chali gayi thi... kahaan . Kitna dhunda mainey tujhey.. har jagah, kahaan gayi thii mujhey chor key?" Prachi where had you gone... where... I've searched so long for you... everywhere, where had you gone? he had queried her through red rimmed eyes. "Aap ko chor ker kahaan jaati Milind... bas yeh yaqeen dilana tha keh aap sey duur main nahin reh sakti naa hii aap merey bina reh saktey hain" Where could I go without you Milind I just wanted you to understand that I couldn't live without you and you can't without me she had explained to him watching him fondly.