Well now come to think of it I've read so many wonderful ff's on the couple I cud hardly stop myself from writing one.This is not a story just a slice of it .Some events I think I need to share with you ppl from my point of view. This is the first time I'm writing an ff so there are bound to be mistakes. All honest criticism and comments will very much be welcomed and looked forward to. Sareeta and Sangeeta you ppl are the ones who've inspired me into this ordeal so now bear with me.
The characters are all the same as in the serial I do not wish to tamper with the original idea.
Index : Parts1,2,3,4,5,6and 7 pg1Parts8,9,10,11and12 pg17
Parts13,14 pg 32
Parts 15 , 16,17 pg 41
Parts 18, 19 pg 52
Part 20 pg 59
Part 21 pg 62
Part1
It was 11 in the morning and he had still not been able to concentrate on his work, he slammed the file on the glass topped table in disgust. What was he doing? he asked himself the millionth time .......running his fingers through his hair he jerked his head as if trying to jerk all thoughts in his mind but to no avail. He cast an astray look on his surrounding ....sunshine flooded the entire room cascading through the wall to ceiling windows. The intensity of the heat diminished largely due to the central air conditioning in the building, the walls were a colour of the bright blue sky reflecting the light radiated by the sunbeams. He walked over to the windows his footsteps muffled by the thick carpet and looked down, outside a sea of traffic stood at a standstill, he could see people scurrying about doing their daily chores and hear the faint sounds of car horns blaring.... disinterested he walked away breathing deeply.
Sitting down heavily on the leathered chair he gave one last futile attempt to make some sense of the project he'd been working on..... the meeting was scheduled in an hour and he had no clue as to what exactly he was going to present. Another fifteen minutes and he gave up all thought of even trying to read. He closed his eyes and leaned back on the chair his head tilted back resting on the head rest. He could not control the train of thoughts that kept reverting to the one important person in his life...his wife Prachi. Just her thought numbed his senses ,events raced through his mind. So much had changed since their marraige ....his anger had now turned to a deep rooted guilt..try as he might he could not shake off the feeling that he was responsible for her sorrow. He pictured her in the lilac saree at the Janmashtami , she'd called all his friends from the chawl to celebrate that day with him because she knew it was important for HIM....He was perplexed at her attitude....Kya yeh bhi sab uska natak hai?Is all if this her act? he asked himself . Kya is main bhi us ki koi chaal hai? Magar agar hai to kiya? Woh kiya chahti hai mujhsey? Is this a scheme of hers? But if it is then what? What does she want from me? So many questions yet he had answers to none.
Just then there was a knock at the door "Come in" he said. " Sir woh Korean delegates aa gaye hain , hum ney unhain conference room main bithaya hai." Sir the Korean delegates have arrived we have seated them in the conference room "Theek hai tum chalo main aata huun." Fine you go on I'm coming " Saala eik to dimagh ki bhi dahi ban gayi hai soch soch ker ....." Oh God my mind's a big curd bowl right now he cursed himself for not being prepared for the meeting, swiftly gathering his things he checked all the items and strode out of the office.
She walked over to her bedroom in silence, the day's work had been done and she was now retiring to her bedroom.
"Prachi beta Milind nahin aaya ab tak?" Prachi hasn't Milind come till yet? she looked up at her mother questioning her about her husband's whereabouts a concerned look in her eyes.....about something she didn't have the faintest idea of.
"Ji woh abhi aatey hi hongey ....meri baat hui thii unkey secretary sey , woh keh rahey they Milind abhi abhi nikley hain." He'll be arriving soon I just had a word with his secretary he told me Milind has left for home " Acha mainey aaj halwa banaya hai Milind ko pasand hai na ..usey zarur dena ...." Ok I've made his favourite dessert today .... give it to him isi bahaney kuch kha legi maybe she'll eat some herself this way she thought eyeing her daughter worriedly. She knew Prachi didn't eat till Milind had his dinner and of late she had been noticing that the food kept for them at night remained untouched. This had caused her alarm to increase greatly. She knew her daughter's married life was not a smooth sailing one but somehow Prachi had managed to get along with Milind's mood swings and she herself had been advising her through the various ups and downs of life after marriage. But somehow today she felt Prachi was not the same she had found her distant and sad...she was her mother and could not turn a blind eye to her daughter's sorrow, yet she knew she was in no position to help her . All she could do was pray for their happiness. Wistfully she looked at her daughter's figure disappearing in her bedroom.
Prachi walked slowly to her bed and sat down at the corner her hands resting in her lap ,she looked up to find a much younger self of her smiling down from a portrait hung on the wall. This was she ...Prachi Shah and what was she now? Prachi Inder Shah or Prachi Milind Mishra.....or was it just Prachi? The Prachi everyone hated. She walked silently to the open window , the breeze causing the thin violet curtains to flow in a ryhtm ...she let the wind caress her cheeks the warm night breeze enbalmed her entire body. She stood there as if tranced, the moon shone brightly like a huge lantern bathing everything in a cool silvery light. She'd been waiting for Milind but she knew the wait was a long one.Kyun nahin aata aap ko yaqeen merey pyaar per why can't you believe my love she questioned him in her vision. Kab samjheingey aap keh main aap sey ...pyaar kerney lagi huun. When will you understand... that I love you. She felt lost .......incomplete without him and yet could not tell him how she felt...the pain this caused was unbearable , sometimes she had a strong desire to hold his hand and never let go .......a lone tear dropped from her eye . In the shadows someone watched that tear travel the whole length of her cheek to fall in the abyss below.
He got out of the car and shut the metallic door with a thud, looking at the silvery path ahead of him he turned to face the moon shining brightly in the sky.He smiled childishly, all thoughts vanished momentarily. It was then that he caught sight of a silhouette in the window above, moving closer he made out Prachi's form looking intently at the same celestial object he had been so enthralled with a split second ago. A few more steps forward helped him to a better view of her bathed in the moon light , her eyes locked in a transfixed gaze and then she closed them letting the tears flow freely .He felt too touched to move. Neev key liye pareshan hogi she must be worried because of Neev he thought .Meri wajeh sey aaj yeh dono alag hain ...sirf meri wajeh sey. They are separated because of me... just because of me The thought alone was enough to tear his soul to shreds . How could he even breathe after committing such a sin. He alone was responsible for them being apart or so he thought. He walked slowly up the porch into the house. The lights were out but he could make out the form of the dining table and the couches , he made his way to the bar and sliding the stool slumped on it. Pouring himself a drink he propped his hands on the counter when suddenly he heard a faint sound behind him. Instantly lights shone in the hallway and he squinted in the gleaming light that engulfed the room .
"Beta tum kab aaye?" Son when did you come? Premlata asked him gently .."Woh bas abhi ..." Just now his voice trailed off. Slowly her eyes shifted from him to the crystal glass in his hand . He acknowledged her gaze and shifted his own from her to the glass. "Beta tumhain doctor ney in sab sey perhaiz key liye kaha hai , main yeh to nahin jaanti keh tum merey baarey main kiya sochtey ho lekin itna zarur jaanti huun keh eik maa key liye uskey saarey bachey eik jaisey hotey hain. Woh sab sey eik jitna hi pyaar kerti hai ,tum bilkul merey betey ki tarah ho or hameshaa raho gey" Son the doctor has asked you to abstain from this, I do not know what you think of me but i do know that for a mother all her children are equally important. She loves them all with the same capacity, you are my son and will always remain that for me as an after thought she added......."Prachi kab sey tumhara intizaar ker rahi hai ...main khana laga deti huun uskey saath kha lena..." Prachi has been waiting for you since long I'll serve dinner you can have it with her "Kyun usney nahin khaya?" Hasn't she had dinner? he questioned her as she turned to leave. She turned slightly "Tumharey bina woh khati hai kiya?" Does she dine without you? she smiled ruefully. Stunned at his forgetfulness he kept the glass on the counter the contents untouched and ascended the stair case , a slight urgency in his stride .
A few steps before the bedroom he stopped dead in his tracks, he heard voices. One he identified as Prachi's the other was not audible ...he moved closer ....should he go in? But he decided against it, he strained his ears to hear closely and in the process inched closer to the open doorway. He could see Prachi talking to someone "Neev main tum sey kitni baar keh chuki huun keh merey pati ki ghair hazri main, merey kamrey main mat aaya kero.. unhain yeh pasand nahin." Neev how many times have I told you not to enter my room in my husband's absence.. he doesn't like it. "Mujhey khushi hai Prachi keh tumhain ab Milind ki pasand or napasand ka khayaal rehney laga hai. Kabhi tumhain meri pasand ka khayaal rehta tha lekin khair" I'm glad you've come to understand Milind's likes and dislikes. There was a time you knew mine too anyways the sarcasm clear in his voice. "Tab baat or thi Neev tum or main rishton ki dor main nahin bandhey they lekin ab" That was different Neev you and I weren't bound by relationships now we are "Ab kiya Prachi ab bhi kuch nahin badla kam az kam merey liye to kuch nahin ..main to wahiin huun jahaan pehley tha .." Now what Prachi, nothing has changed for me , I still stand where I stood earlier. Sneering lightly to himself he smiled cruelly at his own thoughts. Or mujhey laga keh who mujh sey .Arey saala apna to time hi kharab hai And I thought that she had started loving me. My luck's bad as it is let them have their moment he thought after all after the divorce they would be getting together whether he liked it or not.
"Nahin Neev pehley main or ab main farq hai" Neev there's a difference between now and then he heard Prachi as he turned to leave ..curiosity got the better of him and he stayed. He knew it was inappropriate to eavesdrop but he just had to listen to this conversation why was a question he himself had no clue to." Main ab Milind ki patni huun or tum Ayesha key pati.. main jaanti huun humari shaadi jin haalat main hui who sahi nahin they lekin is ka yeh matlab nahin keh rishta bhi ghalat hai..zaruri nahin keh insaan ko zindagi main sab kuch mil jaaye. Kayii baar jo insaan chahta hai who nahin hota lekin jo hota hai us main upper waley ki marzi shaamil hoti hai ..main apney rishtey sey buhut khush huun Neev or chahti huun keh tum bhi apney rishtey main aagey barho . Tum mera ateet ho Neev or Milind mera vartaman or bhavisher..or main nahin chahti key merey ateet ki wajeh sey merey vartaman per koi asar parey" I'm Milind's wife now and you are Ayesha's husband... I know our marriages weren't solemnized in the best of situations but that doesn't mean our relationships are wrong. Sometimes we don't really get what we want but whatever happens, happens for a reason with God's consent. I'm happy with my relationship Neev and I want you to go ahead with yours. You are my past while Milind is my present and future, I do not wish my past to overshadow my present.
From his vantage point he could see her move closer to Neev ..the strength in her voice reflected in her walk he was seeing her in a whole new light now." Lekin Prachi tum Milind key saath khush" But Prachi are you happy with Milind he tried reasoning. "Meri khushion ki fikr kerna chor do Neev ab merey pati meri khushion key zimmedar hain or meri har khushi Milind sey shuru hoti hai or unhi per khatam". Don't worry about my happiness Neev because it starts and ends with Milind. The tone in her voice indicated an end to the subject and a slight shift in posture towards the wall confirmed the thought.
Had he heard her correctly he questioned himself in disbelief. Was all that she had just said true? He stood in the open doorway unable to move ,his feet rooted firmly to the spot. He knew he would be discovered yet the sudden revelation had numbed his senses . Consequently he came face to face with Neev who was now departing in haste. His battle having been lost halfway, he was picture of dejection. He ambled to the doorway shattered to the core and looked up to meet Milind's gaze. They both stared silently at each other for what seemed like eternity subsequently Neev was jolted to his senses. Glancing back one last time at the slender figure in the room he looked at Milind again. Milind read the message in his eyes loud and clear '"Uska khayaal rakhna Milind'.woh khush rahey is se zyaada mujhey kuch nahin chahiye" Take care of her Milind... I desire nothing more than her happiness.
And for once Milind understood ..understood his pleading eyes, understood his desire to keep Prachi safe, protected and happy .Did he not feel the same for her. Had he not wanted to do the same. Silently his eyes followed Neev down the corridor, defeat reflected in every step he took forward .He knew now he had lost her. Lost her to him ...her husband.
Us ney Neev sey yeh kyun kaha keh uski khushi mujh sey hai? Yeh konsa naya natak hai? Ya who sach much mujh sey.Nahin who aisa kaisey ker sakti hai who to Neev ko bachpan sey... or mainey bhi to kabhi usko koi khushi nahin di ..bas saala yeh dard bhi na. Sahi kehti hai who agar dard deney sey khushi milti to saaley sab khush hotey yahaan Why did she tell Neev that her happiness lies with me? Is this another farce of her's? Or does she really love me? But how can she, she and Neev have been together since childhood.. and I too have nevergiven her any happines.. Oh this pain. She is right if one could achieve happiness torturing others then everyone would be happy lost in his thoughts he had unconsciously walked inside his bedroom.
The slight thud of his feet on the doorstep startled her. She turned around to face him..he was so close to her at an arm's distance yet his eyes confirmed that he was equally distant."Aap kab aaye?" When did you come? she asked softly her eyes betraying her calm demeanor. Her face tear stained yet aglow with an unexplainable satisfaction, the amalgamation of both blessing her a divinity he was quick to notice."Bas thori der pehley " A few minutes ago he replied . Her heart missed a beat . Had he seen Neev with her? Did he hear it all or had he just come to assume everything wrongly? Her perplexion did not escape him. "Maa ney khana laga diya hai .. humain neechay bulaya hai". Mom has laid the table, she's called us down for dinner. Glad with the change in subject she nodded in approval and they both headed for the dining table downstairs.
Once seated Premlata lovingly forced them to eat, happy to see that they did not object to her bustling about them. Yet Milind realized all was not at peace. One look at her and he knew she was upset so much so that she had not taken any keen interest in the food Premlata had heaped infront of her. "Acha beta raat buhut ho gayi hai ab main chalti huun. Prachi beta tum yeh sab kitchen main rakh dena or haan Milind kal office sey jaldi ghar aa jaana..kal ghar main puja hai." Ok children now I must leave as it is late. Prachi keep the leftover food in the fridge and Milind try coming home early tomorrow there's a prayer in the house. Smiling she left them to continue with their meal. "Ab kal konsi puja hai?" What prayer? he asked irritated as he had a hectic schedule lined up for the next day. "Woh baba ney rakhwai hai kal puja aapkey or '' Baba has arranged it for you and.. her voice trailed off , her eyes focused momentarily on him then gently lowered to her plate. She knew he hated the entire ordeal of having to act as a good husband to her but was compelled to because of his father. "Acha .." Oh came his reply his tone greatly softened, she looked up to meet his gaze . "Mainey baba sey kaha bhi tha keh aap busy hongey . Lekin woh." I told Baba you would be busy... but he. She tried clarifying.
"Main aa jaunga" I'll come came his prompt reply. Just then his cell phone rang out the tone echoing in the silent premises. "Hello. Haan Mr Sharma kal..haan kal ki meeting schedule .Kal bank manager sey bhi appointment hai ..sab workers ki salary..acha hmm lekin zara jaldi kal mujhey zaruri kaam hai.Ok" Hello. Yes Mr Sharma... yes tomorrow's meeting schedule...Tomorrow there's an appointment with the bank manager too... yes the worker's salary...yes.. hmm.. but a bit fast I have some important work tomorrow. ok ending his conversation he found Prachi returning from the kitchen she had finished clearing the table and now awaited him to accompany her to their room.
The dining table was bustling with activity. All of them were busy having breakfast while Prachi and Premlata served them. Suyesha was trying her level best to feed "Whisky" Alaap's toast while he pleaded her to let him eat in peace through gritted teeth. Though amusing as it was it failed to bring a smile on his face.
"Milind beta, malum hai na aaj puja hai ghar per." Milind son you know there's a prayer at home today "Ji baba maa ney bataya tha." Yes Baba maa had informed me.
"To beta phir zara jaldi aaney ki koshish kerna." Then try coming in early today He smiled half heartedly at his father. A puja for him and Prachi, the whole idea appeared nonsensical to him. He could fool his father not the Almighty yet he was compelled to play along. He stood up to leave "Suniye" Listen he turned slightly "who mujhey bazaar jaana tha puja ki samagiri leney.Main khud chali jaati lekin abhi tak driver nahin aaya or samaan jaldi laana hai phir ghar main or kaam bhi hain." I had to go to the market to buy things for the prayers. I would've gone on my own but the driver hasn't come yet and there is other work to be done too. He listened to her explanation patiently "Theek hai " Fine he turned to leave. "Milind bazaar hi jaa rahey ho to Prachi ko bhi kuch shopping kerwa dena .Main dekh raha huun tum usey bilkul waqt nahin detey. Kitney din ho gaye tum dono kahiin eik saath nahin gaye." Milind if you are taking her along then get her to do some shopping for herself. I see you hardly spare time for her these days. "Par baba .." But Baba he attempted to deny the task keeping in mind the fact that he was already late and had an important meeting. "Nahin main kuch nahin sunna chahta, bas ab Prachi beta jaldi sey tayyar ho jao or shaam key liye shopping ker lo" No I'm listening to any excuse. Prachi get ready soon and go shop for something to wear in the evening having said this his father resumed his prior activity of eating breakfast enjoying Nain Tara's silly remarks.
The mall was crowded with people. He had brought her to an exclusive designer's boutique yet she looked around hesitantly. The price tags on most of the dresses was a hefty amount and she knew he toiled away at the office to earn his rightful dues. "Kuch pasand aaya?" Do you like anything? he inquired. "Meri samajh main kuch nahin aa raha, sab hi saarian itni khubsurat hain in main sey chunna mushkil hai. Aap hi kuch madad ker dijiye." I can't decide all of these are such beautiful sarees. Will you help me choose. Obediently he sifted through the pile lightly fingering a turquoise blue chiffon saree with delicate pearls and silver thread work adorning the border and pallu but before he could advise her his cell fone rang out. "Jo kuch khareedna hai jaldi khareed ley merey paas zyaada time nahin hai" Buy whatever you want to buy fast I really don't have time for this he stated thrusting his credit card in her hand and walked away to answer the call.
Quickly making up her mind she asked the sales girl to pack two sarees. She then walked over to the men's section , rummaging through their wardrobe the previous night she had decided on buying some new clothes for him. Sorting through the rack she found a kurta salwar that struck her fancy Yeh Milind per acha lageyga this will look good on him she smiled to herself.
"Main tum log ko yahaan kaam kerney paisey deta huun ayyashi kerney key liye nahin" I pay you people to work not to have a nice time here he bellowed. His anger had crossed all limits having just gotten off the phone with the bank manager he was shocked to learn of a cash withdrawal during his absence a few weeks before. "Lekin sir." But Sir "Lekin kiya" But what he cut him short. "Dekhiye sir company account sey.." Listen sir the money from the company account "Company account sey ya to main paisey nikalwa sakta huun ya tuu. Main ney to paisey nikalwaye nahin to phir kahaan gaye paisey. Jaldi bata nahin to aaj teri naukri key saath tuu bhi khatam" Either I can withdraw cash from the company account or you. I didn't .. that leaves you. Now tell me exactly what you did with my money or else you'll be finished he snarled moving towards his accountant menacingly .Beads of sweat were now running freely down the accountants forehead "Dekhiye sir paisey mainey hi nikalwaye they lekin apney liye nahin" Yes sir I did withdraw the cash but not for my own use he blurted out the truth. Sighing in relief he was caught offgaurd as Milind grabbed him by the collar thoroughly shaking his thin form. "To phir kis key liye nikalwaye they terey baap ka paisa tha kiya jo mujhey bina bataye ley liya." Then who did you get it for was it your father's that you took it without my permission. " Sir who paisey mainey Sukriti madam key kehney per nikalwaye they" Sir I withdrew the money on Sukriti madam's orders he confessed.
"Sukriti" he echoed in disbelief why would Sukriti need such a large amount of cash and why would she not inform him about the withdrawal.There had been no recent dealings with any new company and no cash payment had been drawn to his notice. Seeing him confused Mr Sharma was only too quick to release himself from his master's iron grip. "Sir agar aap ko mujh per yaqeen nahin to bank manager sey puch lein unhon ney hi fone per Sukriti madam sey baat ki thi." Sir if you don't believe me you can call up the bank manager. He was the one who had talked to Sukriti madam earlier Remembering that he had ordered no payment to be made above half a million in his absence or without an official permission he was forced to accept his accountant's clarification. Grabbing the phone he quickly dialed Sukriti's number but the machine answered instead denying her presence. He then tried her cell number but that too was unreachable, frustrated he slammed the phone down. First Prachi and now Sukriti. The two most important women in his life were hell bent on making him miserable and he was not going to allow that. He hurriedly exited the office all thoughts of the evening's occasions had taken a back seat for the moment. He was too confused to make anything out of the situation, he trusted his sister and knew that it could only be a grave situation for her to act in this unexplainable fashion. He feared for her safety . Sukriti ney mujhey kyun nahin bataya Why didn't Sukriti tell me anything this sole thought kept repeating in his mind. Driving slowly through the thick evening traffic he was angered at his delay on reaching home. He wanted to know the truth from Sukriti herself untill that happened he wouldn't be at peace. The dull ache in his head had now transformed in a throbbing head ache, he rubbed his temples with his thumb and forefinger trying to ease the pain. His eyes were bloodshot and registered many sleepless nights yet his physical suffering could not match his mental turmoil. Still not able to believe his accountant he called the bank manager."Mr Sandeep main Milind Mishra bol raha hun, mujhey 4 th September key merey company account sey cash withdrawal ki details chahiye." Mr Sandeep I'm Milind Mishra speaking, I need details for a cash withdrawal from my account on the fourth of September. "Ji Mr Mishra" Yes Mr Mishra came a static reply "Sir purey do crore ki withdrawal hui thi , main ney confirmation key liye Ms Sukriti sey fone per baat bhi ki thi aapkey accountant ko cash handover kerney sey pehley". Yes sir it was a withdrawal of two crores before handing over the cash I had a word with Ms Sukriti. His worst fears being confirmed he ended the call silently.
She glanced at the silver time piece on her bed side yet again..he was late. The puja her father in law had so lovingly arranged for them started in exactly half an hour. Tired of pacing impatiently in her bedroom for the umpteenth time she decided on getting ready for the occasion.He had arrived at the house completely lost in his thoughts only to find the preparations for the evening's occasions underway Oh aaj to puja hai he remembered instantly Oh today there was supposed to be a prayer ..making way to his bedroom he entered it noiselessly, the lights had been turned off , she probably wasn't around he assumed. Advancing slowly he sat down on the bed weariness evident from his posture he freed himself from his coat and dropped his head in his palms mercilessly pressing his temples with his thumbs. He was tired beyond that confused and distressed .. he longed for a hot shower and a piping cup of tea, the latter having a very soothing effect on him always. Yet he knew he was awaited for downstairs. Sighing inwardly he cast aside any thoughts of the afore imagined comforts and studied the room. Everything looked intact yet somehow something seemed amiss. Precisely then the door to the changing room opened and she walked out. She was clad in the turquoise blue saree he had absent mindedly fingered in the boutique that morning. He smiled ..she was unaware of his presence in the room and carried on with her activities, walking over to the windows again she peered down hoping to find any sign of him .Yeh Milind kahaan reh gaye. Where is Milind she wondered aloud puja ka samay honey waala hai.Aaj subah kuch pareshaan bhi lag rahey they.Pata nahin abhi taka aye kyun nahin. Phone bhi nahin kiya .... It's almost time for the prayers. He looked disturbed today in the morning i wonder what is the matter. He hasn't even called, I don't know why he hasn't come till yet her concern for him was evident from her monologue. He was surprised she was concerned for his whereabouts yet he could not consider this as an act there was no one there besides them. His presence still unknown to her. Walking over to the full length mirror she switched on the lights it was then that she saw him."Aap" You she managed recovering from her surprise how long had he been there she had no clue yet she realized his anguish instantly. "Aap ki tabiyat to theek hai?" Are you feeling alright? she asked alarmed at his weariness and evident pain. Walking slowly she stopped a few inches away from him. " Aap theek to hain?" Are you ok? she asked again this time he looked up to meet her anxious gaze. " Main theek huun" I'm fine he stood up rubbing his forehead roughly he ran his fingers through his hair ."Tu tayyar ho gayi ." Are you ready? "Haan bas aapka intizaar ker rahi thi" Yes I was just waiting for you " Main bas abhi tayyar ho jaata huun" I'll just change and get ready he turned to collect his clothes from the wardrobe when he chanced to see a kurta salwar pressed and laid out for him. "Yeh kiska hai?" Who's is this? he inquired "Ji yeh aapkey liye nikala tha mainey aaj puja khaas aapkey liye hai or woh white kurta to aap kayi baar pehen chukey hain is liye main ney socha aaj aap yeh pehen lain." I took this out for you since the prayers are held for you specially and you have worn that white kurta countless times earlier.
"Mainey yeh nahin pucha keh yeh yahaan kyun hai mainey pucha key yeh kiska hai" I didn't ask you why it's here I asked you who does it belong to he inquired again his question painfully clear "Agar tereyko lagta hai keh main terey bhai key utrey huey kaprey pehnun ga to yeh teri ghlat fehmi hai.." If you think I'm going to wear your brother's hand me downs you're mistaken he threw the garment aside in disgust "Lekin mainey to" But I she started to say "Lekin tuney socha keh mujhey kuch pata nahin chaleyga arey jab mainey aisa koi kurta khareeda hi nahin to yeh mera kaisey hua or jo cheez meri nahin usey main apney paas nahin rakhta" But you thought I wouldn't find out. When i never bought such a garment how can it be mine and I don't wear things that don't belong to me he lashed out angrily. She hung her head in silence her hazel eyes misty with tears she fought hard to hold back. He watched her fish for his credit card from her purse and hand it over to him "Aaj jo shopping ki thi uska bill" Today's shopping bill she added handing him the slip of paper which confirmed the purchase of the garment that morning.
He was stung with remorse why did he have to be so harsh with her he chided himself as he watched her leave the room , she'd bought it for him and he had misunderstood her. Cursing himself for his behaviour he proceeded to get ready. Brushing his hair one last time he took an overall view of himself. Not bad he thought the pale silver of the kurta provided a fresh look to his appearance he confessed to himself that it was an elegant choice on her behalf. He saw her reflection walk in with a tea cup in her hand . "Chai.." Tea she stated handing him the cup of tea he had been dreaming of a couple of minutes earlier.Meeting his gaze she explained " Aapkey sar main dard tha na is liye ..aap jaldi neechay aa jayiye pundit ji aa gaye hain" You had a headache that's why... you should come down now the pundit has also arrived.
" Tuu kyun sochti hai hai merey baarey main itna" Why do you think about me so much he couldn't control himself." Main tereyko koi khushi nahin deta kabhi teri qadar nahin ki phir bhi tuu mera itna khayal rakhti hai ..kyun? " I never make you happy, I've never treasured you still you care for me...why? he was pouring his heart out to her '.why '..She was perplexed at his attitude ..minutes before he was storming at her and now he wanted to know why she did everything that she did for him. Not being able to come up with a suitable reply she looked up to him study her intently. He had hurt her he knew '.but he wanted her to know how he felt for her."Sab neechay humara intizaar ker rahey hain" Everyone's waiting for us downstairs she walked past him yet in that instant her haste got the better of her. Her loose hair got entangled in the intricate bead work of his kurta and she was forced to stop abruptly. Trying her best to free her hair she was drawn closer to his rugged form. But even after countless attempts when she failed to free them she let out a soft moan. Watching her work away at her strands he was amused at her proximity to him. Finally when he realized she'd had enough he slid his arm around her slim waist and drew her closer. He felt her body tighten at this sudden maneuver while he tried helping her their fingers brushed against each other sending cool shivers down her spine. Her heart fluttered in her rib cage she was dazed at his closeness and could feel his breath on her cheek yet she kept her cool and having finally accomplished her task she waited for him to free her of his embrace.. seeing her shift nervously in his arms he tightened his grip slightly not wanting to let her go, placing his index finger on her chin he raised her face to his own..she looked breath takingly beautiful her delicate features were highlited with a subtle touch of make up . He was mesmerized by her beauty. Suddenly overcome by an urge to stop time. Let the moment last for eternity..she was tranced by his actions breathing slowly she had mustered up strength to return his passionate gaze. Her hands resting against his chest she could feel his heart beat violently in that one hypnotic moment they both knew knew that all was not finished.
Before she could call out to him she was dumbstruck to find him gazing lovingly at Prachi................she twisted her fingers in fury ....how could he...how could he fall for that Prachi ....the Prachi who was responsible for her misery , she could not lose Milind to her .....and she would not she vowed to herself....she'd kept her peace because of Milind's father's health but she would not let Prachi walk over her glory ......her Milind ....this time she'd get him back ...at all costs.
Part 7
The puja had been a memorable event, throughout the ceremony his eyes had followed her 'during the performance of the rituals they had both sat together listening to the pundit chant mantras for their well being '.he had watched her clasp her hands and pray with closed eyes the serenity of the atmosphere etched on her face and he had closed his in return to ask for happiness'her happiness'.she had felt so close to him that entire evening 'as if they had been blessed by the Gods themselves...... while she distributed Prasad among the guests he was only too keen to help her . Yet all this had not gone unnoticed .In a secluded part of the hallway Ayesha had watched him closely her eyes following his 'she stood fuming , unable to do anything yet her mind was vigilant '..sipping her drink noiselessly her eyes gleamed with satisfaction '..a cruel smile on her lips'.she had masterminded yet another devious plan'.
He had attended the puja only because Daadi and Premlata had wanted him to'.he had not wanted to be a part of this '..yet he was there in flesh and blood 'smiling'praying and trying to act normal'..from the looks of it he had put up a pretty good act. He had watched Milind and Prachi too '.but somehow he did not feel bitter today on the contrary a sense of relief had swept through him to see her smile shyly at Milind '..he was happy to see that Prachi was happy '.that Milind could not take his eyes off her and that the entire household was reveling in their happiness. He had seen Ayesha too smiling slyly to herself in a remote corner of the room. Knowing her well enough he knew she was upto something 'something that was hazardous to the celebrations at hand , he knew he had to stop her from ruining a perfect moment for them all.
"Aap ney Ayesha ko dekha maa?" he asked Premlata his eyes furtively scanning the crowd' he had just taken his eyes off her for a moment and she was gone amidst the medley of movement and lights. He was agitated at his negligence and wanted to redeem his blunder instantaneously . " Abhi to yahin thi Milind key saath'dekho beta yahin kahin hogi" and Premlata had walked off to attend to another guest. Milind'.. his head started reeling 'what could Ayesha be doing with Milind, why was he not with Prachi.....thoughts ran through his mind ,something was wrong 'Milind would not leave the puja arranged specially for him and Prachi just to talk to Ayesha....he had to find her....he started running down the stairs when he caught sight of her turning out of the doorway '.he followed her out in the front lawn trying to keep up with her quick pace.."Ayesha"'. he called out to her but she showed no signs of stopping. Desperately trying to catch up with her he tripped on a protruded root and fell. The night breeze was chilly , the grass in the lawn wet with dew 'his clothes were damp after the fall.He scoured the floodlit lawn again but she was nowhere in sight, he could not give up now '"Ayesha"...he called out again.
Ayesha knew Neev had followed her and had led him on'.today was the day when she would get back her right in Milind's life, the only plausible way of doing that was to destroy all ties he had with Prachi 'and she very well knew how to. Briskly she ascended the wooden bridge spanning the pool. At a calculated moment she halted behind Milind''out of the corner of her eye she watched Neev follow suit.
He had been trying to avoid her since long but he knew the chances of her taking the hint were limited'.he knew she was madly in love with him and would go to any extent to attain him..yet lately his fervor to exact revenge from her had greatly diminished'..he'd hardly felt any pang of jealousy when he'd seen her perform the aarti alongside Neev '.so had he stopped loving her'.somehow some small voice in his head affirmed the thought'his heart now beat truly for his wife'Prachi. When she had asked him to talk about something important he had been perturbed...."Kyun bulaya tuney mereyko yahaan Ayesha?"he had asked her without turning back to face her, irritation evident from his tone.
" Tuu phir sey us Prachi key liye pagal ho gaya na Milind" '.he heard her scream " fiker honey lagi hai na tereyko uski, lekin tuu samajhta kyun nahin keh who sab uska natak hai".
" Dekh Ayesha who natak karey ya mereyko bewaquf banaye lekin sach to yehi hai keh Baba uski wajah sey theek ho gaye hain or main nahin chahta keh teri wajah sey unko koi takleef puhunchey" he had stated plainly not pleased at her remarks about Prachi.
" Tereyko lagta hai main Baba ko takleef puhunchaungi Milind?" she had asked her voice cracked with emotion " Main kabhi tereyko takleef nahin puhuncha sakti Milind ..main to terey se pyaar kerti huun , phir main kaisey chahungi tera bura"
" Ayesha baat ab sirf teri nahin mujhey ab baba ko sanbhalna hai'or agar who mujhey Prachi key saath khush dekhna chahtey hain to yehi sahi'aakhir who meri patni hai or uski taraf bhi meri koi zimmedari hai"...he had to tell her the truth the fact that now she did not have a strong hold over his heart and that he was beginning to give his marraige another shot.
Feeling all was lost she turned hysterical "Tereyko sirf apni zimmedari yaad hai or main '" she asked turning him around and cupping his face "Kya tuu us Prachi key liye mujhey bhuul gaya hai Milind? Kya tuu who raat bhi bhuul gaya jo hum ney saath guzaari thi'who nazeeki who apnapan 'sab kuch bhul gaya hai kya tuu?" she was crying now her tears wetting his kurta the stains visible . "Us raat jo kuch hua who sirf eik ghalati thi Ayesha or kuch nahin'..or us baat key liye main apney aap ko kabhi maaf nahin ker sakta'..lekin is ka yeh matlab nahin keh mujhey ab bhi teri chah hai Ayesha''haan teri parwah zarur hai lekin pyaar nahin".
His words felt like molten lead to her ears'he didn't love her..then who did he love? Prachi ? having taken everything away from her now she had managed to take away her reason to live too. She looked at him aghast '.this information new to her.
Standing in the distance Neev had heard it all yet he could not presume this as true.Milind could not have slept with Ayesha'..he had seen love reflect clearly in Milind's eyes but for Prachi alone'..yet there they were, he, repenting his unconscious act and she defiant on deeming it as love'.what could he do now, as fate would have it he was not in a position to apprehend either of them for this sinful act'..yet he knew how devastated Prachi would be on learning the truth about her husband's one night stand'...so this was Ayesha's way of bringing Milind back in her life'by blackmailing him into accepting her or facing the consequences of Ayesha narrating this event to Prachi. He was torn between his desire to tell Prachi about this and his want to know the entire truth'and in that one instant Neev realized that he had to find out the truth the real one behind the one Ayesha had forged'..He knew Milind ,he knew he was possessive, arrogant and a complete fool at times but he certainly could not stoop so low as to commit such a sinful act.
Shaking himself free from Ayesha's grasp Milind decided to return back inside when he saw Neev walk out of the shadows. Astonished at his presence there he watched him walk up to where he stood facing him , he could see anger welling in his eyes and realized that he had heard it all. "Tum itney gir jaogey yeh mainey kabhi socha bhi nahin tha Milind .." he heard his voice , the words so venomous they cut through his soul. "Tumhain kiya laga Milind keh tumhari is ghatia harkat ka kisi ko pata nahin chaleyga'.lekin ab main chup nahin rahunga, main Prachi ko tum dono ki sachai zarur bataunga'." he confessed bitterly "usey bhi to pata chaley keh uska pati us ki kitni parwah kerta hai. Arey mainey to socha tha keh tum Prachi sey pyaar kertey ho, usey mujh sey zyaada khush rakhogey lekin tum'.arey tum to kisi ko khush dekh hi nahin saktey to phir kaisey khayaal aata tumhain Prachi ka'.socha nahin tum ney eik baar bhi keh uskey dil per kya guzreygi yeh sab jaan ker'.jawab do mujhey.." seeing him stand motionless take all his wrath submissively only aggravated his rage, he grabbed him by his arms and shook him vehemently venting his anger .
"Roz sochta huun ''.." Milind had answered his voice reflecting his obvious guilt and the pain that followed. He freed himself from Neev's grip and walked away his steps faltering slightly . For him it had been the end 'end to his newfound love for his wife,an end to his happiness he had wished with her'.and an end to life itself ''because life to him started and ended with his wife''his Prachi.
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2
Geet - Hui Sabse Parayee
Cricket
