Posted:
Part 70
Two months later
She stood in front of the full length mirror of their room the bath robe firmly tied on her slim form, she breathed in a deep lungful before slowly untying the cords of the robe and opened it slower still. What she saw was something beyond belief something she had yearned for a long time, the marks were all gone her skin was smooth and unblemished. Her lips trembled in wonder as she inspected herself in the mirror. She could not believe her eyes neither the magical transformation that had taken place. She heard the door click open hastily pulling the robe close she turned around to watch him saunter one look at her and he knew what she was upto. Reaching her he studied her face intently her eyes shining her lips pressed close longing to smile with happiness and new found confidence. He had pulled apart her robe and she had closed her eyes drawing in a deep breath as he studied her inch by inch thanking God she was all his. Sliding his arm around her waist he brought her closer to him bending lower he had placed tender kisses on her eyes, trailing his lips downwards to her supple mouth waiting for him. He had pressed against her lips gently at first the desire over whelming his senses as she parted her lips giving him deeper access. His hands had continued exploring her fine skin as she melted in his hold pressing closer to him her hands around his neck pulling him to her. As they had parted moments later he had caressed her cheek with love "Prachi ....khush to ho na?" Prachi are you happy? he had asked and she had looked up at him through starry eyes. "Buhut khush huun" Very happy a tear had rolled down her cheek which had been kissed away by him, he could see the gratitude she bore in her eyes for him. He had hugged her close then his chin resting on her velvet tresses "Tuu bhi na Prachi ..... yeh aansu teri ankhon main na aayein isi liye to yeh operation kerwaya hai." The tears don't grace your eyes was the reason we had this surgery done remember He was referring to the cosmetic surgery Prachi had undergone a month ago to remove all the marks and scratches from her body.
It was a costly expedition but Milind had appointed the best cosmetic surgeon Jane Whitehall to perform the surgery. He had been deeply pained when he had witnessed Prachi's torment on their wedding night. At times when she changed clothes she'd stare at her marks her mind flooded with agonizing memories of those disastrous incidents and Milind had found this the only solution to diminish her affliction. Pulling her apart he looked at her in silence for a long moment a sudden wave of desire had swept over him. Picking her in his strong arms he had walked over to the bed laying her down he quickly pulled off his clothes and in one smooth gesture did away with her bathrobe. She lay exposed shy but happy her cheeks flaming as she saw him gaze at her with love. He had touched her gently and had heard her moan contentedly he smiled as he kissed her on the lips deeply aroused. She had read his thoughts and had let him lead her on afterall wasn't that what she herself wanted. She felt love in it's complete form pulling him closer she had melted in his fiery embrace. His passion amalgamated with her desire she had chanted his name in extreme ecstasy as she felt him working moving sinking within her. Much later as he lay asleep beside her she had watched him fondly circling his cupid lips with her thumb pad she had kissed them gently her heart filled with appreciation and love for him. They had come to the States for their honeymoon also because Milind had wanted to get her surgery done and in the course meet his sister Sukriti who lived a happy life with her husband Saket and a year old son Saahir. Saket too owned a chain of motels in the Sates though he had inherited the business and now worked it in coordination with his brother who resided in Vegas. Prachi and Sukriti had soon become good friends Sukriti was immensely overjoyed to see that her bhabhi was not only beautiful outside but had a heart of gold too. She missed Preeti who had stayed behind Baba had not wanted her accompanying them as he knew that while undergoing surgery Prachi would not be able to take care of her.
Moreover he wanted Milind to spend some time alone with Prachi so that they could bond on a more intimate level and use the time together to understand each other better, these few days would prove pivotal in forming the base of their relationship. Their stay at Sukriti's house in California was short but memorable Saket had proved to be a wonderful tour guide. He had taken them picnicking at the Yosemite Valley famous for its glacially carved domes, and Sequoia National Park, home to the giant sequoia trees, the largest living organisms on Earth, and the deep freshwater lake Lake Tahoe. Milind and Prachi had enjoyed the time spent with Saket and Sukriti, Saahir was a bubbly young child who was trying to learn walking. After spending quality time with Sukriti Milind had taken Prachi to Norte in Portugal it was one of the most scenic places in the world and Milind had always dreamed of taking Prachi there with him. They visited the sunny beaches, seaside resorts and picturesque villages such as Caminha and Vila Nova de Cerveira. Also the scenic natural parks and mountain ranges, such as the Peneda-Gers National Park, the Montesinho Natural Park, the Alvo Natural Park and two World Heritage Sites: the Alto Douro Wine Region and the Prehistoric Rock-Art Sites in the Ca Valley. They reveled in the beauty of the rivers, waterfalls, vineyards and fertile plots combined with the ancestral monuments in urban centres. Spending a perfect month together nights were warm with passion running high between them Prachi had completely given herself to him. She had overcome her initial shyness and now actively participated in all the games Milind conjured up enticing her to new heights of love. One such night as they lay together Prachi had expressed her wish to bear his child and he had assented knowing full well that a woman felt complete after becoming a mother. "Per Prachi woh aa jayega to tuu mujh per tawajjah nahin deygi na" When the baby comes you'll forget me he had complained teasingly. "Kis ney kaha Milind aapki ehmiat kam ho jaayegi merey liye aap hamesha ehm raheingey ... hamesha" Who says I'll forget you.. you'll always be the most important person for me.. always she had assured him placing his hands on her heart and he had laughed. "Mazaq ker raha tha" I was joking he had cajoled her showering kisses on her exposed arms and back as she lay pressed to him. "To kiya khayal hai koshish kerni chahiye na" So what do you think should we try? he had grinned impishly guiding her hands down his chest when she had nodded shyly helping him make her dream come true.
Ali and Sapna had journeyed to Goa where they had stayed in a hotel putting up her apartment for sale. The monetary assets her mother had left for her had been transferred in her Mumbaii account also the money from the sale of her house. The trip was short as Ali could not afford a longer break from his workshop he had been planning of buying another garage too and to cut the deal he had to be present there. Ali's mother had been left in the care of Premlata who had promised to look after her in their absence. After her return from Goa Sapna had buried her past behind her all that she held dear was lost and to her life held no joy. She toiled on with her daily chores like an automaton taking care of Ali's mother and his house in his absence. She had lost all sense of time and space now confined in her own little world. Though she never neglected her duties towards Ali or her mother in law, she had formed a special bond with the elderly woman who guided her about the different aspects of life. Often she would sit oiling her hair or massaging her tired legs listening to stories of Ali's childhood pranks in their chawl. Ali and Sapna had fallen in a routine he would wake up at five each morning after saying his morning prayers he would read a part of the Holy Quran and at the end of it pray for forgiveness and his family's happiness and well being. He would then go for a quick jog returning at seven by then Sapna would awaken freshening up she would prepare their breakfast and after exchanging a few words Ali would leave for work. He would not return till late at night while during the day Sapna cooked, washed and cleaned. Ali had allowed her to pursue a career if she desired but Sapna did not wish to leave her frail mother in law at the hands of a servant. She had come to love her as her own mother and felt immense satisfaction by just being near her. Her mother in law had treated her like her own daughter often talking gently to her combing her tresses as she lay with her head in her lap... she felt blessed. The holy month of Ramadan had started and even though Ali had not asked her to Sapna would awaken early at five in the morning to prepare sehri (Morning meal taken before commencing the fast) for him. She would not eat throughout the day too since the other two family members would be fasting. "Sapna tum to kha liya kero" Sapna please eat your meals Ali had scolded her when he came to know of her actions "acha nahin lagta" don't feel like it she had replied. "Kiya acha nahin lagta Sapna hum roza rakhtey hain tum to nahin tum per kaisi paabandi" what do you mean by that we are bound by obligation you are not so don't skip meals he had inquired highly irritated. He noticed Sapna had grown weak and silent that was certainly not what he wished her to be.
Though Sapna had forgotten he hadn't that Diwali was fast approaching and had bought a burgundy saree for her adorned with intricate stonework. Handing it to her he had reminded her "Tumney diwali key liye kuch khareeda nahin iss liye mainey socha main hii ley jaun." You never got anything for Diwali so I thought I'd buy it for you He had wanted her to forget her past and start life anew yet what he did not comprehend was that each new day dawned a different aspect of his remarkable nature to her making her feel shameful of her past deeds. She felt misplaced in his life and wondered how patient and caring he was never chiding her, bearing her disregard in silence. Sometimes she wished he would shun her, get angry at her but he never did even if she made blunders. The first meal Sapna had cooked was a disaster, she had never been fond of cooking and loathed it. But here her mother in law was not in a position to dedicate herself to the culinary task being an asthma patient the heat and the vapour got to her making her cough and lose her breath. Ali had made breakfast the first day at their apartment he assumed she knew how to cook directing her to the kitchen showing her the contents different cabinets held and had then left to work. That night he had returned ravenous only to find a lentil soup that had enough water in the name of gravy to feed the entire neighbourhood. Though inexperienced at the skill Sapna had attempted to make rice which had turned a musty brown at the edges. She had tried to cook asking Premlata for instructions over the phone but her lack of knowledge in the field had proved catastrophic. One look at her face and Ali had known she had prepared the food and now feared his wrath. He had not uttered a single word and had proceeded to eat the bland meal stopping her from following suit. She watched astounded as he finished his share and helped her clear the plates he had left then returning shortly with a dinner comprising of vegetable curry and rice for her. "Yehi laana tha to phir woh kyun khaya jo mainey banaya tha" If you had to go get this why did you eat the food I had cooked she had inquired confused at his behaviour. "Woh tumney banaya tha merey liye, nahin khata to dukh hota keh tumhari mehnat ka kuch sila haasil nahin hua or yeh tumharey liye hai kyunki woh tum kha nahin paogi" You had cooked that for me, if I wouldn't have eaten it I would've felt hurt thinking your hard work was not rewarded. This I bought because I know you won't be able to eat that and Sapna's eyes had clouded. He had then proceeded to feed her when she insisted he have some he told her he had dined already. He had jotted down a few recipes he knew for her writing in detail the time and content required for each one also the procedure to be followed and had handed them to her for her help.To Sapna Ali had gradually become someone she respected and felt for, what though was the big question. There were times when she wished she could bare her heart to him and ask him why she felt that way what was it that had changed in her. She tried in vain to keep him happy but everytime his eyes met hers she had a glimpse of the distinct yearning they bore for her. It was not that she did not acknowledge his love it was only that she dreaded him being brutally snatched away from her like the other people in her life she had mistaken to love.
Four months later
Milind sat poring over his files while Preeti watched cartoons on the plasma in the hall Baba had returned from his walk after dinner and had taken a seat beside Milind. "Preeti chalo soney" Preeti come lets sleep Premlata had called the little child who sat transfixed watching Tom chase Jerry onscreen. "Nayii nani" No nani she had shaken her head vigourously in the negative sidling towards her father's legs relaxing on them for support. Milind had gestured Premlata to let her be who had smiled seating herself beside him. As expected by them Preeti's eyes had drooped and soon she was slumped against Milind's legs in a deep peaceful sleep. Prachi had emerged from the kitchen finishing her chores and had wanted to pick up Preeti when Premlata had stopped her filling the child in her arms. "Maa aap ney to iski puuri zimmedari ley lii" Maa you've taken up all her responsibility she had complained watching her mother pat her slumbering daughter. "Kiya kerun tum to itni choti rahi nahin iss liye ab saara pyaar isskey liye hai" What can be done you've grown big enough now it's her time to get all my love Premlata had smiled walking away to her bedroom with her grand daughter. Later that night when Milind had wrapped up his work and joined Prachi in the bed he felt she was tensed rather impatient as she kept glancing at the wall clock. She had not let him drift off to sleep engaging him in senseless talk about her trip to the mall and the different sarees she picked up that day. "Prachi seedhay seedhay bata kiya baat hai buhut ho gaya tera natak" Prachi tell me whats up with you I've had enough of it he had questioned clasping her hands in his own. "Aapko naatak lag raha hai main aapsey shopping discuss ker rahi thi mujhey kiya pata tha aap khafa ho jaayeingey jaaiye nahin batati aapko" You think this isn't serious here I was telling you about my shopping and you'r least interested. Fine I'm not sharing anything with you now she had replied hurt at his comments and he had laughed. "Yaar kitney din ho gaye tuu naraaz nahin hui na mujh sey iss liye, malum hai tuu kitni khubsurat lagti hai ghussey main bilkul tamatar lagti hai" It had been long since you had blown your fuse see how beautiful you look just like a tomato he had teased her lovingly his hands working at her gown's silken strings when she had tapped his fingers briskly. "Koi zarurat nahin mujhey makhan lagaaney kii" No need to butter me she had tightened the strings again feigning ire. "Acha chal subah tujh per makhan laga ker kha jaunga... waisey bhi bread per to roz hii makhan lagata huun na" From tomorrow I'm gonna eat you with butter breads become boring he had winked naughtily at her tickling her tummy making her laugh hysterically. As she composed herself Milind had watched her fondly he just couldn't get enough of her even after six months in their marriage it felt as if it was just yesterday that she had entered his life as his bride. The clock had struck twelve and Prachi had smiled at him bending towards him she had gently kissed his full lips surprising him "Happy Birthday dear husband. Sorry aapko itna bore kiya per main chahti thi aapki birthday per sab sey pehley main aapko wish kerun" Sorry I bored you but I wanted to be the first one to wish you she had informed him leaving him stupefied.
"Tujhey yaad tha" You remembered? he had questioned huskily and she had nodded in the affirmative. Cradling her in his arms he had graced her soft face with copious kisses. "Mera gift" My gift? he had inquired in mirth and she had smiled shyly. "Hai to per deney main waqt lageyga" Well I have it but I'll need time to give it she had whispered. "Kyun kiya khud banayegi beth ker" Why you'll make it yourself or what he had joked making her blush "Haan" Kind of she had replied. He looked at her quizzically not understanding her mysterious answers "Kahaan hai Prachi bata na" Where is it Prachi tell me he had requested. "Yahaan" Here Prachi had lifted his palm guiding it underneath her gown laying it on her stomach. Milind had felt her body heave beneath him his hand advancing up on her velvet skin. As realization dawned Milind's eyes had shone like newly lit candles "Sach Prachi" Really Prachi he had questioned softly and she had hugged him in response breathing in his masculinity that emitted off him strongly. "Thanks Milind aapney mujhey aaj poora ker diya... maa banney ka ehsaas kitna khubsurat hota hai mainey aapki wajah sey jaana" Thank you Milind for completing me. Being a mother is such a wonderful feeling and I've come to know it because of you she had whispered in his ear. He had felt as if the heavens had showered him with all their riches his beautiful wife was pregnant with his child what more could he ask for from God. Releasing her he had tenderly kissed her forehead "Yeh to sab sey acha gift hai merey liye" This is the most wonderful gift you could've given me he had smiled gazing at her amorously. "Per main kuch or bhi laayi huun" But I've got something else too she had told him reaching for a wrapped slim box in the drawer she handed it to him. Opening it he found it contained a Tag Huer watch with his name spelt on the coal black dial in diamonds "Thanks" he had smiled kissing her longingly on the lips. "Per eik gift abhi bhi baaqi hai" There's one gift that still missing he had advanced towards her gown once again helping her out of it "Konsa gift" Which gift? she had questioned innocently gasping in pleasure as his hot lips kissed her sensuously. He had not let her ponder more making her feel intense craving for him as he worked artistically on her body creating a master piece with his mouth. It had always been him making the first move tonight he desired it to be her and so had aroused her senses peaking them till she could bear it no longer. She lay breathing hard anticipating further action but he had stopped just then "Milind" she had whimpered visibly upset. He hadn't responded yet lay watching her intently his eyes asking her to do the needful, Prachi certainly had reached a point of no return and tonight she was ready to grant her husband his birthday gift. With nimble hands she took off his apparel taking his hand in her own she had made him trace her body with it and finally had kissed him deeply on the lips. When Milind still did not comply she had tenderly bit his ear lobe. By the time she was finished enticing him Milind was laughing at her innocence. She in her opinion had done her best and now lay highly embarrassed at not being able to fulfill his expectations turning her face away disappointed in herself when he had rolled her back to him. "Ho gaya!" Done! he had mocked making her redden and had proceeded to show her what she was capable of doing taking her to new heights of passion. As she lay panting in his hold some time later blissful after a scintillating union he had kissed her with love. "Mujhey nahin malum tha meri wife itniii sexy hai" I never knew my wife was so sexxyy!! he had grinned and she had buried her face in his chest kissing it softly. "I love you" she had whispered more to herself than to him but he had listened "I love you too" he had told her pulling her close enjoying a truly momentous birthday gift..... his wife near him. Placing his hand on her stomach he had slowly drifted off to sleep..
The next day they had celebrated his birthday at home as Milind avoided parties Prachi had baked him a chocolate cake Ali and Sapna had been invited too. Milind had then informed his family about the gift Prachi was going to give him in exactly seven months while the rest of the family had congratulated a shy Prachi Sapna had gazed on dazed. Earlier that morning Saadia had called after exchanging pleasantries she had narrated to Sapna that she would be becoming a maami (aunt) soon. Sapna had congratulated her and handed the phone to Ali who had expressed immense joy over the news. Sapna had felt saddened to see that both the other woman married along with her had gone ahead with their lives while she stood at the same point where she had started six months earlier. Her relationship with Ali if not deteriorated had not progressed either. He had tried his best to make her feel comfotable love her but she had not given heed to any of his advances. They led a platonic existence, the fervor she used to see in Ali's eyes for her gradually diminished and died. It was not that he didn't care for it was just that he had resigned to his fate, accepted the fact that he was meant to lead life as a celibate devoid of any passion from his wife. They did the necessary activities watched movies, went out for dinners, sightseeing and social events but there was a heavy silence that followed them everywhere. Ali had wanted to share the world with her yet she had found a new world of solitude where she lived in constant agony. As they returned home that night and prepared to sleep Sapna had decided to talk to Ali they could not keep living like strangers forever. "Ali" she had addressed him trying to focus her thoughts. He had looked up at her questioningly. "Aap duusri shaadi ker lain.... aapkey mazhab main to ijaazat haina eik sey zyaada kii" Ali why don't you marry someone else... it's allowed in your religion to marry more than one woman she had said in one go atleast now he could live a content life with another woman. Sapna had given this idea a lot of thought she understood even if at some point they did get together it would be a fruitless exercise as she had already been proved barren by the doctors. She could not let Ali fret in misery at her expense, he was entitled to living a proper life complete with a wife's love and care and the happiness of being called a father which he could never achieve if he stayed with her.
Ali stood stunned shaken to the core his shock was replaced with anger soon. His eyes blazing he walked slowly upto her holding her by her arms he made her look at him. "Acha shaadi ker luun kiss sey... larki bhi dhund lii hogi tumney" Oh really I should get married... to whom I'm sure you must've found the perfect girl too he had asked her in an icy tone she could understand the idea hadn't appealed to him feeling his hands exhert pressure on her arms. "Aap meri wajah sey" Just because of me she had started when he had gone mad with fury "Tumhari wajah sey kiya haan.. kiya... aaj tak iss rishtey main sirf tum rahi Sapna sirf tum. Tumharey liye kabhi hum nahin they sirf tum" What because of you haan ... what. its always been about you in this relationship there never was an us he had shaken her hard making her gasp in fright. "Kabhi socha tumney tumhari iss soch sey iss bartaav sey mujh per kiya beet ti hai..." Did you ever think how I feel with this attitude and behaviour of yours he had released her then his eyes going misty raking a heavy hand through his hair he burnt in rage. "Tumharey liye sirf tum ho tumhara ateet, tumhara pyaar, tumhara bacha or tumhara dard kabhi eik baar bhi merey baarey main socha Sapna. Eik pal ko bhi jaana tum sey duuri mujh per kitna sitam dhaati hai, phir bhi iss aas main jii raha huun keh kabhi to tumhain tumhari iss duniya main merey honey ka ehsaas hoga." For you its always been your past,your love, your child and your pain did you ever once think about me Sapna. Even for a moment did you think what it feels to me to stay away from you living in a hope that someday you might realize that I start existing in your world. Sitting down on the bed Sapna watched him aghast she had thought her suggestion would consider him to rethink about their marriage and help him move on in life but it had proven quite the opposite. He loved her with the same intensity he had displayed at the time he had married her "Kiya socha tumney Sapna, Prachi or Saadia maa ban gayeen to tum peechey reh gayi, shaadi sirf bachey paida karney key liye nahin kii jaati Sapna. Shaadi main do log miltey hain unki aatmayein jurti hain. Sangam sirf jismon ka nahin dilon ka hota hai per tumhain kiya khabar kis ka dil kitna dukha." What did you think Prachi and Saaia reached motherhood and you lagged behind. A marriage is not just for producing children. Two people meet in a marriage its not just bodies that unite rather their souls and hearts but what would you know how bad you hurt someone's heart. It was Sapna's turn to be astounded she stared at him in surprise as he carried on heart broken. "Kiya tum aaj bhi Shashank se" Do you still think about Shashank he had watched her intently "Ali!" she had remarked in retaliation and he had smiled in hurt. "Chubta haina jab koi ilzaam lagata hai, ghalat sochta hai, aapki neeyat per shak kerta hai" he had remarked in a scathing tone. "Mujhey bhi dard hota hai Sapna jab tum merey pyaar per iss dil key har ehsaas per shak kerti ho sirf iss liye keh tumhain khud per yaqeen nahin" I too get hurt Sapna when you doubt my love my faith my thoughts just because you don't have faith in yourself his eyes had spilled hot tears then which he had wiped away mercilessly. "Main khuda nahin insaan huun Sapna or takleef main to pathar bhi ro pertey hain tum ney to mujhey kisi qaabil nahin chora..... iss sey behter hai keh main mar jaun or tum mujh sey azaad ho jao kyunki jeetey jii to main nahin chor sakta na tumhara saath na tumsey pyaar". I'm not God I'm human and when in pain even mountains cry. You've not left me capable of feeling or thinking anything ... I hope I die so that you may be free of me because as long as I live I cannot stop loving you or being with you. Picking up his bike's keys he had walked out of the house leaving Sapna to burn in her self created hell.
Two months later
She stood in front of the full length mirror of their room the bath robe firmly tied on her slim form, she breathed in a deep lungful before slowly untying the cords of the robe and opened it slower still. What she saw was something beyond belief something she had yearned for a long time, the marks were all gone her skin was smooth and unblemished. Her lips trembled in wonder as she inspected herself in the mirror. She could not believe her eyes neither the magical transformation that had taken place. She heard the door click open hastily pulling the robe close she turned around to watch him saunter one look at her and he knew what she was upto. Reaching her he studied her face intently her eyes shining her lips pressed close longing to smile with happiness and new found confidence. He had pulled apart her robe and she had closed her eyes drawing in a deep breath as he studied her inch by inch thanking God she was all his. Sliding his arm around her waist he brought her closer to him bending lower he had placed tender kisses on her eyes, trailing his lips downwards to her supple mouth waiting for him. He had pressed against her lips gently at first the desire over whelming his senses as she parted her lips giving him deeper access. His hands had continued exploring her fine skin as she melted in his hold pressing closer to him her hands around his neck pulling him to her. As they had parted moments later he had caressed her cheek with love "Prachi ....khush to ho na?" Prachi are you happy? he had asked and she had looked up at him through starry eyes. "Buhut khush huun" Very happy a tear had rolled down her cheek which had been kissed away by him, he could see the gratitude she bore in her eyes for him. He had hugged her close then his chin resting on her velvet tresses "Tuu bhi na Prachi ..... yeh aansu teri ankhon main na aayein isi liye to yeh operation kerwaya hai." The tears don't grace your eyes was the reason we had this surgery done remember He was referring to the cosmetic surgery Prachi had undergone a month ago to remove all the marks and scratches from her body.
It was a costly expedition but Milind had appointed the best cosmetic surgeon Jane Whitehall to perform the surgery. He had been deeply pained when he had witnessed Prachi's torment on their wedding night. At times when she changed clothes she'd stare at her marks her mind flooded with agonizing memories of those disastrous incidents and Milind had found this the only solution to diminish her affliction. Pulling her apart he looked at her in silence for a long moment a sudden wave of desire had swept over him. Picking her in his strong arms he had walked over to the bed laying her down he quickly pulled off his clothes and in one smooth gesture did away with her bathrobe. She lay exposed shy but happy her cheeks flaming as she saw him gaze at her with love. He had touched her gently and had heard her moan contentedly he smiled as he kissed her on the lips deeply aroused. She had read his thoughts and had let him lead her on afterall wasn't that what she herself wanted. She felt love in it's complete form pulling him closer she had melted in his fiery embrace. His passion amalgamated with her desire she had chanted his name in extreme ecstasy as she felt him working moving sinking within her. Much later as he lay asleep beside her she had watched him fondly circling his cupid lips with her thumb pad she had kissed them gently her heart filled with appreciation and love for him. They had come to the States for their honeymoon also because Milind had wanted to get her surgery done and in the course meet his sister Sukriti who lived a happy life with her husband Saket and a year old son Saahir. Saket too owned a chain of motels in the Sates though he had inherited the business and now worked it in coordination with his brother who resided in Vegas. Prachi and Sukriti had soon become good friends Sukriti was immensely overjoyed to see that her bhabhi was not only beautiful outside but had a heart of gold too. She missed Preeti who had stayed behind Baba had not wanted her accompanying them as he knew that while undergoing surgery Prachi would not be able to take care of her.
Moreover he wanted Milind to spend some time alone with Prachi so that they could bond on a more intimate level and use the time together to understand each other better, these few days would prove pivotal in forming the base of their relationship. Their stay at Sukriti's house in California was short but memorable Saket had proved to be a wonderful tour guide. He had taken them picnicking at the Yosemite Valley famous for its glacially carved domes, and Sequoia National Park, home to the giant sequoia trees, the largest living organisms on Earth, and the deep freshwater lake Lake Tahoe. Milind and Prachi had enjoyed the time spent with Saket and Sukriti, Saahir was a bubbly young child who was trying to learn walking. After spending quality time with Sukriti Milind had taken Prachi to Norte in Portugal it was one of the most scenic places in the world and Milind had always dreamed of taking Prachi there with him. They visited the sunny beaches, seaside resorts and picturesque villages such as Caminha and Vila Nova de Cerveira. Also the scenic natural parks and mountain ranges, such as the Peneda-Gers National Park, the Montesinho Natural Park, the Alvo Natural Park and two World Heritage Sites: the Alto Douro Wine Region and the Prehistoric Rock-Art Sites in the Ca Valley. They reveled in the beauty of the rivers, waterfalls, vineyards and fertile plots combined with the ancestral monuments in urban centres. Spending a perfect month together nights were warm with passion running high between them Prachi had completely given herself to him. She had overcome her initial shyness and now actively participated in all the games Milind conjured up enticing her to new heights of love. One such night as they lay together Prachi had expressed her wish to bear his child and he had assented knowing full well that a woman felt complete after becoming a mother. "Per Prachi woh aa jayega to tuu mujh per tawajjah nahin deygi na" When the baby comes you'll forget me he had complained teasingly. "Kis ney kaha Milind aapki ehmiat kam ho jaayegi merey liye aap hamesha ehm raheingey ... hamesha" Who says I'll forget you.. you'll always be the most important person for me.. always she had assured him placing his hands on her heart and he had laughed. "Mazaq ker raha tha" I was joking he had cajoled her showering kisses on her exposed arms and back as she lay pressed to him. "To kiya khayal hai koshish kerni chahiye na" So what do you think should we try? he had grinned impishly guiding her hands down his chest when she had nodded shyly helping him make her dream come true.
Ali and Sapna had journeyed to Goa where they had stayed in a hotel putting up her apartment for sale. The monetary assets her mother had left for her had been transferred in her Mumbaii account also the money from the sale of her house. The trip was short as Ali could not afford a longer break from his workshop he had been planning of buying another garage too and to cut the deal he had to be present there. Ali's mother had been left in the care of Premlata who had promised to look after her in their absence. After her return from Goa Sapna had buried her past behind her all that she held dear was lost and to her life held no joy. She toiled on with her daily chores like an automaton taking care of Ali's mother and his house in his absence. She had lost all sense of time and space now confined in her own little world. Though she never neglected her duties towards Ali or her mother in law, she had formed a special bond with the elderly woman who guided her about the different aspects of life. Often she would sit oiling her hair or massaging her tired legs listening to stories of Ali's childhood pranks in their chawl. Ali and Sapna had fallen in a routine he would wake up at five each morning after saying his morning prayers he would read a part of the Holy Quran and at the end of it pray for forgiveness and his family's happiness and well being. He would then go for a quick jog returning at seven by then Sapna would awaken freshening up she would prepare their breakfast and after exchanging a few words Ali would leave for work. He would not return till late at night while during the day Sapna cooked, washed and cleaned. Ali had allowed her to pursue a career if she desired but Sapna did not wish to leave her frail mother in law at the hands of a servant. She had come to love her as her own mother and felt immense satisfaction by just being near her. Her mother in law had treated her like her own daughter often talking gently to her combing her tresses as she lay with her head in her lap... she felt blessed. The holy month of Ramadan had started and even though Ali had not asked her to Sapna would awaken early at five in the morning to prepare sehri (Morning meal taken before commencing the fast) for him. She would not eat throughout the day too since the other two family members would be fasting. "Sapna tum to kha liya kero" Sapna please eat your meals Ali had scolded her when he came to know of her actions "acha nahin lagta" don't feel like it she had replied. "Kiya acha nahin lagta Sapna hum roza rakhtey hain tum to nahin tum per kaisi paabandi" what do you mean by that we are bound by obligation you are not so don't skip meals he had inquired highly irritated. He noticed Sapna had grown weak and silent that was certainly not what he wished her to be.
Though Sapna had forgotten he hadn't that Diwali was fast approaching and had bought a burgundy saree for her adorned with intricate stonework. Handing it to her he had reminded her "Tumney diwali key liye kuch khareeda nahin iss liye mainey socha main hii ley jaun." You never got anything for Diwali so I thought I'd buy it for you He had wanted her to forget her past and start life anew yet what he did not comprehend was that each new day dawned a different aspect of his remarkable nature to her making her feel shameful of her past deeds. She felt misplaced in his life and wondered how patient and caring he was never chiding her, bearing her disregard in silence. Sometimes she wished he would shun her, get angry at her but he never did even if she made blunders. The first meal Sapna had cooked was a disaster, she had never been fond of cooking and loathed it. But here her mother in law was not in a position to dedicate herself to the culinary task being an asthma patient the heat and the vapour got to her making her cough and lose her breath. Ali had made breakfast the first day at their apartment he assumed she knew how to cook directing her to the kitchen showing her the contents different cabinets held and had then left to work. That night he had returned ravenous only to find a lentil soup that had enough water in the name of gravy to feed the entire neighbourhood. Though inexperienced at the skill Sapna had attempted to make rice which had turned a musty brown at the edges. She had tried to cook asking Premlata for instructions over the phone but her lack of knowledge in the field had proved catastrophic. One look at her face and Ali had known she had prepared the food and now feared his wrath. He had not uttered a single word and had proceeded to eat the bland meal stopping her from following suit. She watched astounded as he finished his share and helped her clear the plates he had left then returning shortly with a dinner comprising of vegetable curry and rice for her. "Yehi laana tha to phir woh kyun khaya jo mainey banaya tha" If you had to go get this why did you eat the food I had cooked she had inquired confused at his behaviour. "Woh tumney banaya tha merey liye, nahin khata to dukh hota keh tumhari mehnat ka kuch sila haasil nahin hua or yeh tumharey liye hai kyunki woh tum kha nahin paogi" You had cooked that for me, if I wouldn't have eaten it I would've felt hurt thinking your hard work was not rewarded. This I bought because I know you won't be able to eat that and Sapna's eyes had clouded. He had then proceeded to feed her when she insisted he have some he told her he had dined already. He had jotted down a few recipes he knew for her writing in detail the time and content required for each one also the procedure to be followed and had handed them to her for her help.To Sapna Ali had gradually become someone she respected and felt for, what though was the big question. There were times when she wished she could bare her heart to him and ask him why she felt that way what was it that had changed in her. She tried in vain to keep him happy but everytime his eyes met hers she had a glimpse of the distinct yearning they bore for her. It was not that she did not acknowledge his love it was only that she dreaded him being brutally snatched away from her like the other people in her life she had mistaken to love.
Four months later
Milind sat poring over his files while Preeti watched cartoons on the plasma in the hall Baba had returned from his walk after dinner and had taken a seat beside Milind. "Preeti chalo soney" Preeti come lets sleep Premlata had called the little child who sat transfixed watching Tom chase Jerry onscreen. "Nayii nani" No nani she had shaken her head vigourously in the negative sidling towards her father's legs relaxing on them for support. Milind had gestured Premlata to let her be who had smiled seating herself beside him. As expected by them Preeti's eyes had drooped and soon she was slumped against Milind's legs in a deep peaceful sleep. Prachi had emerged from the kitchen finishing her chores and had wanted to pick up Preeti when Premlata had stopped her filling the child in her arms. "Maa aap ney to iski puuri zimmedari ley lii" Maa you've taken up all her responsibility she had complained watching her mother pat her slumbering daughter. "Kiya kerun tum to itni choti rahi nahin iss liye ab saara pyaar isskey liye hai" What can be done you've grown big enough now it's her time to get all my love Premlata had smiled walking away to her bedroom with her grand daughter. Later that night when Milind had wrapped up his work and joined Prachi in the bed he felt she was tensed rather impatient as she kept glancing at the wall clock. She had not let him drift off to sleep engaging him in senseless talk about her trip to the mall and the different sarees she picked up that day. "Prachi seedhay seedhay bata kiya baat hai buhut ho gaya tera natak" Prachi tell me whats up with you I've had enough of it he had questioned clasping her hands in his own. "Aapko naatak lag raha hai main aapsey shopping discuss ker rahi thi mujhey kiya pata tha aap khafa ho jaayeingey jaaiye nahin batati aapko" You think this isn't serious here I was telling you about my shopping and you'r least interested. Fine I'm not sharing anything with you now she had replied hurt at his comments and he had laughed. "Yaar kitney din ho gaye tuu naraaz nahin hui na mujh sey iss liye, malum hai tuu kitni khubsurat lagti hai ghussey main bilkul tamatar lagti hai" It had been long since you had blown your fuse see how beautiful you look just like a tomato he had teased her lovingly his hands working at her gown's silken strings when she had tapped his fingers briskly. "Koi zarurat nahin mujhey makhan lagaaney kii" No need to butter me she had tightened the strings again feigning ire. "Acha chal subah tujh per makhan laga ker kha jaunga... waisey bhi bread per to roz hii makhan lagata huun na" From tomorrow I'm gonna eat you with butter breads become boring he had winked naughtily at her tickling her tummy making her laugh hysterically. As she composed herself Milind had watched her fondly he just couldn't get enough of her even after six months in their marriage it felt as if it was just yesterday that she had entered his life as his bride. The clock had struck twelve and Prachi had smiled at him bending towards him she had gently kissed his full lips surprising him "Happy Birthday dear husband. Sorry aapko itna bore kiya per main chahti thi aapki birthday per sab sey pehley main aapko wish kerun" Sorry I bored you but I wanted to be the first one to wish you she had informed him leaving him stupefied.
"Tujhey yaad tha" You remembered? he had questioned huskily and she had nodded in the affirmative. Cradling her in his arms he had graced her soft face with copious kisses. "Mera gift" My gift? he had inquired in mirth and she had smiled shyly. "Hai to per deney main waqt lageyga" Well I have it but I'll need time to give it she had whispered. "Kyun kiya khud banayegi beth ker" Why you'll make it yourself or what he had joked making her blush "Haan" Kind of she had replied. He looked at her quizzically not understanding her mysterious answers "Kahaan hai Prachi bata na" Where is it Prachi tell me he had requested. "Yahaan" Here Prachi had lifted his palm guiding it underneath her gown laying it on her stomach. Milind had felt her body heave beneath him his hand advancing up on her velvet skin. As realization dawned Milind's eyes had shone like newly lit candles "Sach Prachi" Really Prachi he had questioned softly and she had hugged him in response breathing in his masculinity that emitted off him strongly. "Thanks Milind aapney mujhey aaj poora ker diya... maa banney ka ehsaas kitna khubsurat hota hai mainey aapki wajah sey jaana" Thank you Milind for completing me. Being a mother is such a wonderful feeling and I've come to know it because of you she had whispered in his ear. He had felt as if the heavens had showered him with all their riches his beautiful wife was pregnant with his child what more could he ask for from God. Releasing her he had tenderly kissed her forehead "Yeh to sab sey acha gift hai merey liye" This is the most wonderful gift you could've given me he had smiled gazing at her amorously. "Per main kuch or bhi laayi huun" But I've got something else too she had told him reaching for a wrapped slim box in the drawer she handed it to him. Opening it he found it contained a Tag Huer watch with his name spelt on the coal black dial in diamonds "Thanks" he had smiled kissing her longingly on the lips. "Per eik gift abhi bhi baaqi hai" There's one gift that still missing he had advanced towards her gown once again helping her out of it "Konsa gift" Which gift? she had questioned innocently gasping in pleasure as his hot lips kissed her sensuously. He had not let her ponder more making her feel intense craving for him as he worked artistically on her body creating a master piece with his mouth. It had always been him making the first move tonight he desired it to be her and so had aroused her senses peaking them till she could bear it no longer. She lay breathing hard anticipating further action but he had stopped just then "Milind" she had whimpered visibly upset. He hadn't responded yet lay watching her intently his eyes asking her to do the needful, Prachi certainly had reached a point of no return and tonight she was ready to grant her husband his birthday gift. With nimble hands she took off his apparel taking his hand in her own she had made him trace her body with it and finally had kissed him deeply on the lips. When Milind still did not comply she had tenderly bit his ear lobe. By the time she was finished enticing him Milind was laughing at her innocence. She in her opinion had done her best and now lay highly embarrassed at not being able to fulfill his expectations turning her face away disappointed in herself when he had rolled her back to him. "Ho gaya!" Done! he had mocked making her redden and had proceeded to show her what she was capable of doing taking her to new heights of passion. As she lay panting in his hold some time later blissful after a scintillating union he had kissed her with love. "Mujhey nahin malum tha meri wife itniii sexy hai" I never knew my wife was so sexxyy!! he had grinned and she had buried her face in his chest kissing it softly. "I love you" she had whispered more to herself than to him but he had listened "I love you too" he had told her pulling her close enjoying a truly momentous birthday gift..... his wife near him. Placing his hand on her stomach he had slowly drifted off to sleep..
The next day they had celebrated his birthday at home as Milind avoided parties Prachi had baked him a chocolate cake Ali and Sapna had been invited too. Milind had then informed his family about the gift Prachi was going to give him in exactly seven months while the rest of the family had congratulated a shy Prachi Sapna had gazed on dazed. Earlier that morning Saadia had called after exchanging pleasantries she had narrated to Sapna that she would be becoming a maami (aunt) soon. Sapna had congratulated her and handed the phone to Ali who had expressed immense joy over the news. Sapna had felt saddened to see that both the other woman married along with her had gone ahead with their lives while she stood at the same point where she had started six months earlier. Her relationship with Ali if not deteriorated had not progressed either. He had tried his best to make her feel comfotable love her but she had not given heed to any of his advances. They led a platonic existence, the fervor she used to see in Ali's eyes for her gradually diminished and died. It was not that he didn't care for it was just that he had resigned to his fate, accepted the fact that he was meant to lead life as a celibate devoid of any passion from his wife. They did the necessary activities watched movies, went out for dinners, sightseeing and social events but there was a heavy silence that followed them everywhere. Ali had wanted to share the world with her yet she had found a new world of solitude where she lived in constant agony. As they returned home that night and prepared to sleep Sapna had decided to talk to Ali they could not keep living like strangers forever. "Ali" she had addressed him trying to focus her thoughts. He had looked up at her questioningly. "Aap duusri shaadi ker lain.... aapkey mazhab main to ijaazat haina eik sey zyaada kii" Ali why don't you marry someone else... it's allowed in your religion to marry more than one woman she had said in one go atleast now he could live a content life with another woman. Sapna had given this idea a lot of thought she understood even if at some point they did get together it would be a fruitless exercise as she had already been proved barren by the doctors. She could not let Ali fret in misery at her expense, he was entitled to living a proper life complete with a wife's love and care and the happiness of being called a father which he could never achieve if he stayed with her.
Ali stood stunned shaken to the core his shock was replaced with anger soon. His eyes blazing he walked slowly upto her holding her by her arms he made her look at him. "Acha shaadi ker luun kiss sey... larki bhi dhund lii hogi tumney" Oh really I should get married... to whom I'm sure you must've found the perfect girl too he had asked her in an icy tone she could understand the idea hadn't appealed to him feeling his hands exhert pressure on her arms. "Aap meri wajah sey" Just because of me she had started when he had gone mad with fury "Tumhari wajah sey kiya haan.. kiya... aaj tak iss rishtey main sirf tum rahi Sapna sirf tum. Tumharey liye kabhi hum nahin they sirf tum" What because of you haan ... what. its always been about you in this relationship there never was an us he had shaken her hard making her gasp in fright. "Kabhi socha tumney tumhari iss soch sey iss bartaav sey mujh per kiya beet ti hai..." Did you ever think how I feel with this attitude and behaviour of yours he had released her then his eyes going misty raking a heavy hand through his hair he burnt in rage. "Tumharey liye sirf tum ho tumhara ateet, tumhara pyaar, tumhara bacha or tumhara dard kabhi eik baar bhi merey baarey main socha Sapna. Eik pal ko bhi jaana tum sey duuri mujh per kitna sitam dhaati hai, phir bhi iss aas main jii raha huun keh kabhi to tumhain tumhari iss duniya main merey honey ka ehsaas hoga." For you its always been your past,your love, your child and your pain did you ever once think about me Sapna. Even for a moment did you think what it feels to me to stay away from you living in a hope that someday you might realize that I start existing in your world. Sitting down on the bed Sapna watched him aghast she had thought her suggestion would consider him to rethink about their marriage and help him move on in life but it had proven quite the opposite. He loved her with the same intensity he had displayed at the time he had married her "Kiya socha tumney Sapna, Prachi or Saadia maa ban gayeen to tum peechey reh gayi, shaadi sirf bachey paida karney key liye nahin kii jaati Sapna. Shaadi main do log miltey hain unki aatmayein jurti hain. Sangam sirf jismon ka nahin dilon ka hota hai per tumhain kiya khabar kis ka dil kitna dukha." What did you think Prachi and Saaia reached motherhood and you lagged behind. A marriage is not just for producing children. Two people meet in a marriage its not just bodies that unite rather their souls and hearts but what would you know how bad you hurt someone's heart. It was Sapna's turn to be astounded she stared at him in surprise as he carried on heart broken. "Kiya tum aaj bhi Shashank se" Do you still think about Shashank he had watched her intently "Ali!" she had remarked in retaliation and he had smiled in hurt. "Chubta haina jab koi ilzaam lagata hai, ghalat sochta hai, aapki neeyat per shak kerta hai" he had remarked in a scathing tone. "Mujhey bhi dard hota hai Sapna jab tum merey pyaar per iss dil key har ehsaas per shak kerti ho sirf iss liye keh tumhain khud per yaqeen nahin" I too get hurt Sapna when you doubt my love my faith my thoughts just because you don't have faith in yourself his eyes had spilled hot tears then which he had wiped away mercilessly. "Main khuda nahin insaan huun Sapna or takleef main to pathar bhi ro pertey hain tum ney to mujhey kisi qaabil nahin chora..... iss sey behter hai keh main mar jaun or tum mujh sey azaad ho jao kyunki jeetey jii to main nahin chor sakta na tumhara saath na tumsey pyaar". I'm not God I'm human and when in pain even mountains cry. You've not left me capable of feeling or thinking anything ... I hope I die so that you may be free of me because as long as I live I cannot stop loving you or being with you. Picking up his bike's keys he had walked out of the house leaving Sapna to burn in her self created hell.
Cricket
Bollywood
Anupamaa
Kabhi Neem Neem Kabhi Shahad Shahad
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2
