FF:Yehdil Humara hai updtd pt26 27/12

"Milind menh yeh ghar choar ke jaa rahi hunh is lifafe menh tumhari aik amanat he usse choar kar jaa rahi hunh"

"Hanh tu challi ja. Teri yahan koi zaroorat nahin"

After Prachi had brought him home from the chawl he had gone straight to the spare bedroom. His heart had hurt so much, there was so much pain inside. His tears had dried and it seemed that they too would never stay faithful to him. He had wanted to punish her, to lash out, yet his love for her had stopped him. A small part of him just wanted to hold her close and forget everything, yet the rational part of him knew she was guilty. He felt alone and wished that he could share his pain with his sister at least.

Rrrrrring! He was brought out of his reverie by the house phone. A sixth sense told him that it was from Sukriti. He rushed to grab the phone.

"Kesi ho Sukriti?"

"Menh theekh hunh bhabhi, aap kesi hain, bhaiyya kesenh hain, our mera bachcha Rithwick kesa hai?"

Milind stood in shock. His whole body had frozen. An innocent question had ripped open his already battered heart. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. His sister was Rithwick's mother? He was a mama to Alaap's son?

He listened as Prachi reassured his sister, she told her about all his cute little antics. She urged her to tell Saket everything, she was sure he would accept the baby. He heard Sukriti's concern over Alaap getting to the truth. He heard his wife reassure her again. He heard his wife reiterate that everything was fine here. He had heard enough.

He quietly put the receiver down. His wife. His sister. Both had deceived him. If only they had both come to him and asked for help. If only…

He knew what he had to do. Before he confronted Prachi there were matters that had to be dealt with. He headed back to the spare bedroom and started making the necessary phone calls.

After four very long and arduous hours Milind was finally ready to face his wife. He now knew the truth. To protect his sister she had hidden the money that Sukriti had stolen. She had gone to the party to protect his sister rather than relive old moments with Neev. To this date all of Prachi's actions had been to protect his honour, his sister's honour and most of all his father's honour. He was ashamed of himself, he had believed so many lies. Lies that had had the power to destroy his wonderful relationship with his wife.

Milind silently walked towards his bedroom. He heard laughter, he turned to see Ayesha talking to his picture. He went closer. Ayesha laughed maniacally. "Ab tu mera he Milind. Mera aaj Prachi se badla poora ho gaya."

For the third time today his heart had been ripped open and torn into several pieces. Prachi had suffered at the hands of Ayesha. He had thought that she had been his friend, but she had turned into a fire breathing vengeful demon. How could she have done that to me? On the one hand there is Prachi who can sacrifice so much for the people she loves and on the other there is Ayesha, A cold, heartless bitch.

He turned away as silently as he could. He did not want Ayesha to come in his way, otherwise God only knew what he would do to her. He opened the door to his room, where it seemed his beautiful wife and child lay sleeping. He quickly locked the door and then came and sat by her on the bed. She did not stir. He noticed her wet pillow, the drying tears on her cheek, her furrowed forehead. Even in sleep she was upset. He let her sleep for he knew that just like him she would not have slept the previous night.

Without daring to wake her he moved to sit on the sofa. He had a lot to think about. He needed to deal with Ayesha and win his wife back. He knew it would be easy to ask for Prachi's forgiveness and she would gladly give it. He didn't want that. He wanted to solve all his wife's problems and then he would grovel for her forgiveness. Ayesha was a different matter. He knew that she had to pay, pay for the crimes that she had committed in the sake of love. His love. He needed a plan and he knew who could help him.

All night he watched her, every time she turned he watched. Every time she patted Rithwick in her sleep, he watched. As the cock crowed outside, he gently touched her cheek, said a silent goodbye and stealthily walked back to the spare bedroom.

Part 20

"Yeh kya hai Milind, Yahan bulanai ka tera kya matlab hai"? What is this Milind? Why have you called me here? Neev was angry, very angry.

Milind didn't say a word. He simply bent his knees in front of Neev, folded his hands and lowered his head.

" Tum yeh kya kar rahe ho?"

What are you doing?

"Maafi maang raha hunh Neev. Menh upne kiyai par bohat sharminda hunh"

I am asking for forgiveness Neev. I am ashamed at what I have done.

"What? The great Milind Mishra Maafi maang raha hai?" What? The great Milind Mishra is asking for forgiveness? He was confused by Milind's actions. A man who until yesterday was out for his blood was now supplicating in front of him! Unwilling to be drawn into this change of heart, he was still curious as to why he was behaving like this.

"Mujhe kal raat ko esi sachayi ka pata chalah he ke is waqt maafi our sharmindagi ke illava mere paas kuch nahin hai."

Last night I found out such a truth that there is nothing left but for me but to apologise and be ashamed.

"Kay pata chala?"

What did you find out?

"Rithwick ki sachai."

The truth about Rithwick

"Our who hai kya Milind? Tujhe pata chal gaya ke menh us ka baap nahin hunh?"

And what is that Milind? You found out that I'm not his father?

"Hanh pata chal gaya. Prachi ne jhoot bolah tha ke menh kissi ki zillat na sahoo."

Yeah I know. Prachi lied to protect me from shame.

"Who kis ka bachcha hai Milind?"

Who's child is he Milind?

"Matt pooch"

Don't ask.

"Kyunh nahin poonchunh. Mera naam Prachi se jura diya gaya. Sab ke saamne aik mazaak ban ke reh gaya hunh menh! sachai rishtai ka mazaak bana diya theri Prachi neh our menh nahin poonchunh? Ahir tu chahta kya he?" Why cant I ask? My name was linked to Prachi in front of everyone. I am a joke for everyone. She turned an honest relationship into a joke and I can't ask? What do you want?

"Teri madat, our aggar tu chahai to dosti bhi." I need your help and if you want then your friendship too. Neev could not stop himself from laughing. He could never imagine a friendship between milind and himself, but he was now intrigued. Why did Milind need his help?

"Utth Milind our seedhe bhol."

Get up Milind and be straight with me

"Mujhe us Ayesha ko sabak sikhana hai. uski waja se hum sab ki zindagiyonh menh zehar ghol chuka hai. Us ne tujhe nahin chorah, tu toh Prachi ka pyar tha lekin Ayesha ka badla esa tha ke wo har khushi Prachi se cheen lena chahti thi. Menh our tu Ayesha ke naachtai huwai ghulam ban kar rahe gayai. I'm sure ke tujhe upni zindagi chahiyay our mujhe meri Prachi. Prachi ne mehaz wohi kiya jo us ke papa ne usse kaha." I need to teach that Ayesha a lesson. She has ruined all our lives. You were Prachi's love but because of Ayesha's revenge she made Prachi miserable by taking you away from her. And then whenever she could she would snatch any happiness from Prachi. We are all merely puppets fro Aysha. I'm sure that you want your life back and I want my Prachi. Prachi only did what her father asked of her.

"Wah milind wah. Jab akal aye tikanai to kesi ayee! Fine menh teri madat karunh ga"

Wow Milind wow. You finally came to your senses. Fine I'll help you.

They spent the whole day plotting a plan. They re hashed and discussed until the setting sun and hunger drove them home. Their plan was simple. Milind would act like an avenging husband, pretend to hate Prachi and insult her in such a way that she would be forced in to telling the truth in front of Ayesha so that it finally put her into place. At the same time Neev would act against Milind so that he could the truth out of Prachi as well as distract Ayesha long enough for Milind to go for the attack.

Milind was very happy with the turn of events and had developed a new respect for Neev. He had been a true friend to Prachi and hopefully would prove the same for him. He regretted his earlier behavior and now knew the value of true love and friendship.

She hated this. Milind never missed an opportunity to belittle and shame her with his caustic comments. Neev and Milind had been at each other throats ever since she had admitted the baby was hers. She knew she was reaching a breaking point where she would confess to all. I know I can't do that to Milind it will completely destroy him. I won't do that to him. Why are you still defending him Prachi this man has all but destroyed you. Belittled you. Treated you worse than the lowliest creature on this earth. No you should leave with Rithwick.

Having made her decision Prachi packed her bags. She showered for one last time. To make her exit convincing enough she removed the distinctive red colour from her maang. Kumkum would never adorn her head now. Dressed in a simple baby pink salwar kameez that her father had given her, she looked in her mirror. She looked naked, as if someone had eliminated the past six months of her life. She fingered the intricately beaded necklace. A necklace that had made her whole, that had made her cherish a relationship that was true and pure. I have to do this. I can't take it anymore. I lied and cheated to save your sister Milind and in return I ruined myself, made you hate me and love Ayesha more. I am tired of taking your abuse, tired of the hatred in your eyes. I just want to lick my wounds in piece. Very slowly and reluctantly Prachi removed her Mangalsutra. She kissed it, this Mangalsutra carries my love for you Milind, it rested by my heart for you. It now belongs to you. She placed it into an envelope. She picked up Rithwick and walked downstairs.

"Milind menh yeh ghar choar ke jaa rahi hunh is lifafe menh tumhari aik amanat he usse choar kar jaa rahi hunh" Milind, I'm leaving you and this house. In this envelope I am returning what belonged to you.

"Hanh tu challi ja. Teri yahan koi zaroorat nahin"

Yeh you go. No one needs you here.

Prachi looked at him and then her assembled relatives. She nodded to everyone, saw the tears in their eyes and her resolve almost broke. She turned away and placed the envelope on the coffee table. She walked towards the door. Please stop me milind please. She pleaded one last time.

"Prachi rukkh" Prachi wait. Strong arms lifted Rithwick from her. In hope she looked into Neev's eyes and was disappointed. How she wished it had been milind stopping her.

"Tu kehti hai nah key yeh bachcha tera our mera hai? Well. Menh upne bachchai ko kahin nahin jaane doonh ga!" You say that this child is yours and mine? Well. I won't let my child go with you! So saying Neev grabbed Rithwick.

"Mujhe mera bachcha wapis de doh Neev. Is ke bina menh nahin ji paonh ghi." Give back my baby Neev. I wont be able to live without him. She fought to get the baby off him. Rithwick started crying. In desperation Prachi scratched Neevs face.

"Ouch! Prachi tum mere bachchai ke saath nahin jaa sacti!"

Ouch ! Prachi you cant go with my child!

Milind watched hoping that now Prachi had reached her breaking point she would tell the truth and oust out Ayesha. It seemed that his wife was made of sterner stuff. He had ridiculed her, abused her in the last few weeks yet nothing had perturbed her. The pain of hurting Prachi had been too much for him, every sinful act he directed at her he did to him self tenfold. She would be horrified to see the bruises on his body.

Prachi felt cornered she couldn't tell him about Sukriti and Alaap. She couldn't. If she left Rithwick here then God only knew how he would be treated.

"Neev bachcha mujhe de do." Neev give me the child. The voice was quiet and commanding. Prachi had never heard this tone from her mother. She looked at her gratefully. Neev reluctantly handed over Rithwick who immediately stopped crying.

"Prachi tum apni marzi se yeh ghar choar ke jaa rahi ho lekin yeh bachcha yahan rahe ga. Neev, Milind our Aysha ki fikar mat karo. Rithwick ko menh sambhal lunh ghi."

Prachi you're leaving this house on your own free will. But this child stays here. Don't worry about Neev, Milind and Ayesha. I will take care of Rithwick.

Damn her mother had offered her a get out clause! Milind swore under his breath, this was not going according to plan!

"Theek hai Maa," OK Maa replied Prachi reluctantly, "mere Rithwick ko sambhal ke rakhna. Isse maa ki kammi mehsoos nahin hone dena." Take care of my Rithwick. Don't let him feel that he has no mother. She hugged and kissed her baby and with a heavy heart walked out of Shah House.

"Prachi! Cried Milind. He ran towards her, but was blocked by Ayesha.

"Ab tu us kebab menh haddi ko kyunh bulah raha hai?"

Now why are you calling the third wheel (sound better in hindi)

"Aysha mujhe jaane de"

Ayesha let me go

"Apna badla bhool ja Milind. Yeh dekh Mere our Neev ke Divorce papers. Sab kuch final ho chukka hai. Dekh na Milind. Yeh sab tere liyai mene kiya hai." Forget your revenge Milind. Look Mine and Neevs divorce papers. Everything has been finalised. I have done this all for you. She clung on to him.

"Chorr mujhe Aysha!" Leave me Ayesha! He screamed as he ran towards the door.

"Milind!"

Where did she go? Milind looked at the crowded street in confusion. He couldn't see his Prachi anywhere. He asked the security guard who said she caught a taxi towards the airport. She had left him!

"Milind Menh us tharaf jaata hunh tu airport ki tharaf ja." Milind I'll go that way and you go towards the airport. He was brought out of his shocked state by Neev. He nodded and got into his car and gave chase.

They searched for her everywhere. Milind called in investigators to find his wife but to no avail. She was gone.

Part 21

"Mummy uttho na get up, mummy!" Cried two very small voices.

"Kya? sone do na!" What? Let me sleep. Replied a groggy Prachi. She knew full well that Milly had now recruited her brother in this early Sunday morning ritual. Milly had a habit of waking up at 6 o'clock every morning, she was her alarm clock but Prachi wished that just this Sunday she could have a lie in. she had had the worst possible night, Milind had slept on the sofa, a sofa which was conveniently placed at such a point where she could make out every nuance of him. She had at one point in the night become mesmerised by his steady breaths!

"Kya?! Kya huwa? Koan Chillaya?" What? What happened? Who screamed? A perturbed Milind who had just about been able to sleep on the sofa was now alert and ready to …to…

He watched as his children gawped at the sight of his boxers. Getting up from the sofa he tried to look as commanding as he could. He put both hands on his waist and gave them his most menacing look. A look that could make many quake in their boots, seemed to have no effect on them. He flicked his gaze to Prachi who still had her eyes closed. How could she sleep through this racket? His confused look sent raptures of delight rippling through his children; they promptly started jumping up and down the bed!

"Yeh kya masti hai?" What is this? He roared. They giggled even more!

"Mummy daddy sofa pe kyunh soye?" Mummy why did daddy sleep on the sofa? Asked a jumping Rithwick.

"Menh so rahi hunh." I'm sleeping. Came the reply. She did not want to answer their innocent question.

Oh… so this was a game, a game that Prachi had obviously played before. He watched and waited to see what she would do next.

"Mummyyyyyy!"

"Bed toot jaye ga bacha". The bed will break child She whimpered.

"Daddy our laah denh geh, wese bhi hum theen to daddy jitne motai nahin hai. Just imagine aggar wo is waqt aa kar humare saath jumps karenh ge to kya ho ga?!" Daddy will buy another. As it is we three are not as as fat as daddy. Just imagine if he came and started jumping with us! They laughed uproariously at their own wit.

Hmm idea burah nahin hai, wah re mere shaitaan bacho kya idea diya he apne baap ko! Hmm the ideas isn't bad. Wow my little miscreants, you've given a brilliant idea to your father. Milind slowly made his way to the bed. He saw Prachi peeping through the covers. She wasn't sure whether he would do it. He came closer and closer. She closed her eyes shut. Her breath became ragged. .

She couldn't stand it any longer. The sight of Milind in boxers had her drooling. His strong leg muscles rippled as he slowly made his way to the bed. His small amount of chest hair curled just above his six pack. She squeezed her eyes shut. Her breathing quickened and shivers went through her spine. She could sense him staring at her. Very slowly, she opened her eyes.

"Chalo mere do unmol ratan, naha lo". Come my little darlings have a bath. He grabbed each child around the waist and lifted them both simultaneously. Prachi's heart missed a beat. I wish he could carry me like that, Shut up Prachi you are immune, Remember that!

The look on her face had been priceless. He grinned at the memory; he knew she wasn't as immune to him as she made out. He knew he would have to think of a plan of action very soon.

Part 22

Please note that the advice given in this chapter was researched and is given to couples. unlike KYM i do do my research and get my facts right!

"Tu mera mushwara maang raha hai? Our wo bhi larrikiyonh ke barai main? Tujhe ho kya gaya hai Milind? Tere liyai aik Prachi kafi nahin hai?" You're asking for my advice? And that about girls? What happened to Milind is Prachi not enough? Asked Neev, it had become increasingly difficult to deal with this incoherent Milind. He was happy that Prachi was home, but it was nothing compared to Milind! His silly grin was beginning to irritate Neev. He couldn't seem to concentrate on work since her return two days ago. It also seemed as if he hadn't slept properly for days.

Milind merely looked at him.

"Ok, ok menh serious ho jaata hunh. Aggar menh is baat par goar famaon to mujhe lagta he ke… tujhe yaad he wo Pinky?" Ok, ok I'll get serious. If I concentrate hard enough, I think that you should…do you remember Pinky?

"Wo bubble gum wali? Wohi jo chubah kar bahar nikaal upni ungli se twist kar ke wapis upne munh menh daalti thi? Yaar Pinky meri madat kese karegi?" the bubble gum chewer? The one who chewed gum then twisted it around her finger and then stuck it back into her mouth? Mate how can Pinky help me?

"Arre sun to, humara affair 3 mahinai chalah tha"

Just listen will you. Our relationship lasted three months.

"Hanh yaad he, mujhe lagta tha aik din tu us ki ungli zaroor kaat deh gah."

Yeah, I remember, I thought that you would definitely cut that finger off one day.

"Well, wo aik baar mujhe marriege counselling leh gayee thi!"

Well she took me to marriage counselling once.

Milind roared with laughter. The thought of Neev sitting in a marriage counselling session was absolutely ludicrous!

"Tu neh mujhe kabhi bataya nahin"

You never said

"Yes well, aik mard ko apni mardaanghi bachcha ke rakhni parti hai. Anyway us counsellor neh ese hi baatonh baatonh menh bataya tha ke aggar jhagra chal raha ho to partner ke saath behas karne ke bajai us ke hanh menh haami dalo, is se partner doubt karta hai." Yes well, a man has to protect his honour. Anyway that counsellor once said that if you are arguing then you shouldn't argue back. Instead you should agree with your parner on every thing. This way your partner's mind fills with doubt.

"Menh tera matlab nahin samjha"

I don't get it

"Kabhi bhaloo ko aik sexy aadmi ki baat samaj ayee he kya? Dekh aggar Prachi din ko kahe raat to phir tu bhi kahe raat. Hala ke who jaanti he ke din hai. Phir jab us ke mann menh doubts aa jain to ahista ahista usse thori thori baat kar ke behla ke pusla ke wapis apni bana lena."Can an ape ever understand a sexy guy like me? Look if Prachi says it's day even if it's night, then agree with her. Then when she is riddled with doubts, go for the attack and make her yours.

Hmm. He knew exactly how he would start.

Part 23

"Kahan jaa rahi ho Prachi?" Where are you going Prachi?

"Tum se matlab?" Whats it to you?

"Mene bas esai hi poocha." I just wanted to ask that's all.

"Mr Milind Mishra har aam aadmi Monday ke din kaam pe jaata hai. Shaid tum bhi jao?" Mr Milind Mishra any normal person usually goes to work on a Monday. Maybe you will go too?

She didn't look dressed for the office. She was wearing one of her old saris again. This time, a simple blue one that had seen better days. Milind frowned he need to buy some clothes for his wife. Come to think of it she hadn't arrived with very much on Friday. Wouldn't it be a great idea to go on a shopping trip tonight with the kids? He slowly brought his attention back to the conversation, reluctantly letting go of the fantasies spinning in his mind.

"Lekin tu Milly ko saath kyunh le kar jaa rahi ho?" But why are you taking Milly with you?

"Milind humara ghar badla hai. Lekin humari routine nahin badli." Milind our home has changed but that doesn't mean that our routine has changed too.

"Of course, mujhe yaad aya Milly nursery menh hai right? Acha idea hai. Neev tho subah Rithwick ko chortha hai so tum us ki fikar nahin karna. Unka bonding time hai." Of course I remembered you have a nursery at work. It's a good idea. Neev drops off Rithwick in the morings, so don't you worry about him. It's their bonding time you see.

Prachi merely grunted and walked out of their opulent bedroom to find Milly. She was confused by his behaviour. All weekend he had been charm personified. He had agreed with everything she said and had often second guessed her too. It was very frustrating fighting with a man who kept agreeing with you!

"Milly. Aap ready ho?" Milly are you ready? Milly had dressed her self it seemed. Her baby was growing up. She had even tried to do her hair…badly.

"Hanh mummy papa ne meri pony tail bandhi." Yes mummy papa tied up my pony tail. She replied as she hugged her mother.

"What?!!" She laughed. The thought of milind doing such a thing was preposterous. Her uncontrollable laughter was a delight for Milly. Yessss! Mummy's laughing properly. Thank you daddy. Milly knew that her mummy was very happy now that she was with daddy and Ridvi bhai. She was alittle bit worried as to why her parents weren't sleeping in the same bed like all her friends' parents. She had talked about it with Ridvi bhaiyya who was thinking of a plan already.

"Ok ab chalo" Ok let go. Prachi had finally managed to get herself under control.

After dropping off Milly in the nursery. Prachi headed to her cabin. She kept a spare set of clothes there for emergencies. There was no way that she could conduct business deals in a frilly sari. A sari that had been bought by Milind a long time ago. I wonder if he remembered why he had bought it for me? Yet again she chided herself on her musings. She knew she had a lot of work to do today. Particularly on this milind deal. Seeing Sur she smiled. Her friend and secretary was a blessing in disguise.

"Sur. Good morning. Thankyou for Friday."

"It was a pleasure. That lovely hunk of a man that came to collect Milly made my day!" Replied the bubbly Sur.

"Hmmph". She grunted sab milind ki thareef ke pul baandh rahe hain. Everyone likes to compliment darling Milind!

"Get me the Shermish file Sur. We have a lot of work to do today. Schedule a meeting with them for around 2 pm. Make sure it's a two hour meeting. Book the conference room and get our chief lawyer for it too. I want you taking the minutes. I don't want any mishaps with this one."

Prachi pored over file after file. She worked like a demon trying to erase the memories of the weekend. Seeing her husband in minimal clothing had awakened long buried memories. Memories that still made her spine tingle. She didn't need them but they haunted her all morning. After having lunch with Milly she returned to find Milind and Neev waiting in the conference room.

"Has Mr Patel arrived sur?"

"Yes he just came in." Sur and Prachi walked in together. There was a concerned look on her face. On further questioning she opened up to Prachi.

"Prachi, these people they're…"

"I know Sur. The hunk is my husband and the other is his friend and partner Neev."

"I was talking about Neev. He's the hunk! Sur laughed impishly! Prachi merely smiled and walked towards another battle.

"Good afternoon gentlemen. I take it you have met Mr Patel, our chief lawyer. This is my secretary Sur. Now let get on with business."

She had changed from the Sari she had left with into a cream coloured business suit and a shocking pink shirt. He wasn't too sure of her displaying her legs like that for the men of this company and Neev. Jealous milind? Remember hanh menh haami (agree with her). Otherwise you fail your ultimate goal. He had to admit that she did look very sexy. He wondered how well she would be able to conduct this meeting. The old Prachi would have sat there meekly not said a word and then he would have got his own way. With this new Prachi he wasn't so sure. Wait and watch milind. No jaldbaazi (impatience). Don't lose your temper. Let's act like it's real business.

Prachi settled her self down and put her notes in front of her. With a pen ready she began.

He was impressed. Her subject knowledge was immense. She wasn't using any guiles to get what she wanted. He noticed that as she talked there was no hesitancy. She was very forthright. She reminded him of Milind. Neev smiled, knowing that these would be very easy negotiations.

"I agree with everything you are saying Prachi. Neev do you agree?" Milind looked at each person, gauging their reactions to his decision. The opposition was clearly surprised, he smiled at them.

"I do. Shall we wrap this up now? We will buy this company for the asking price; we won't make any redundancies, etc etc. I hope that this is to your satisfaction?

Prachi looked at Mr Patel. He was perplexed at how easily this company had agreed on all of Ms Mishra's demands. She gave him a quiet nod.

"Then its agreed. Mr Patel will draw up the necessary paperwork. I'll contact Mr Kapoor and then sign the documents. Once that is done Sur will fax over the account details for you to transfer the money."

She nodded and shook hands with Neev, hesitating slightly she shook Milind's hand and gasped. Desperately trying to cover herself she quickly murmured " pins and needles". Milind merely smiled.

Prachi was confused. Milind had agreed to every one of their terms. Milind and Neev were known for their ruthlessness. Yet in this meeting they were so… so like mice! She knew something wasn't quite right. Her instinct was telling her to be aware. She turned to go.

"Prachi, aik minute" Prachi, one moment

"Kya Milind?" What Milind?

"Menh Milly ko ghar leh jaon?" Can I take Milly home?

"Yes of course. wesai bhi menh derr se aon ghi so behtar ho ga agar wo tumhare saath challi jaye." I'll be late so it's best if she goes home with you. His request surprised her.

"Itni derr thak kaam karma achi baat nahin. Har insaan ko aik work-life balance ki zaroorat hoti hai." It's not good to work late. Everyone needs a work-life balance.

"Kis ne kaha ke menh kaam derr se karunh ghi?"

Who said I will be working late?

So saying she flounced off in the direction of her cabin.

Part 24

It's nearly 8 o'clock! Where could she be?

"Papa book parhiyay na. baar baar ghari ko kyunh dekh rahain hain?" Papa read the book please. Why do you keep looking at the clock? Asked an irritated yet sleep Rithwick.

"Sorry", replied Milind. He was getting worried. He had no idea where Prachi was. He was absolutely terrified that something had happened to her.

"Ridvi bhaiyya papa pareshan hain." Ridvi bhaiyya papa's perturbed. Chirped Milly.

"Lekin kyunh?" But why? Replied her confused brother. Milind merely listened hoping that she would arrive any minute. He knew she would not miss tucking her children into bed.

"Honestly! Men! Mummy aa jaye gi. Lekin papa pareshan he ke itna time kyunh laga rahi hain. In ko yeh nahin pata ke aaj mummy ka special day hai. Mummy will come. So papa is perturbed as to why she hasn't arrived yet. He doesn't know that it's mummy's special day.

"Special day?" Milind was intrigued.

"Hi bachcho! Sorry, sorry menh late ho gayee!" Hi kids! Sorry, sorry I'm late! An apologetic Prachi stood at the door wearing the most unfashionable skin tight jeans with a lot of holes. They were paint spattered and she stunk like a petrol station! She quickly walked over and sat herself on the bed.

"Mummy aap ka project complete ho gaya?" Mummy did you complete your project? Asked Rithwick. What project is this he wondered? Why doesn't anyone tell me anything? Why do I have to be constantly confused? He was dying to ask her what she had been doing. He didn't want a scene in front of the children so decided to keep quiet.

"Ab thora sa reh gaya he so menh usse saath leh aayee. Kal school se pehle menh aap ko dikhaon ghi." There's just alittle bit left now so I brought it with me. Tomorrow before school you'll get to see it. She smiled at her children, knowing the pleasure that they would feel tomorrow morning. She glanced at milind, confused by his quiet. The old Milind would have asked her by now. She really wanted him to ask just so that she could shut him up again. He looked cute, nestled between his children on the bed. She kissed Rithwick and wished him good night. Milly was another matter, nestled in the crook of her father's arm on the other side of the bed she had to lean over and kiss her.

Her smell was overpowering him. He was ready to throw up until he noticed how low-cut her top was. He took a good look savouring the rounded swell of her chest. They seemed bigger than before. He wondered why that was.

Prachi was glad she had accidentally doused her self in turpentine. She used it to clean her brushes but she had become so distracted that she had spilt a lot of it on herself. The look that Milind had given her had been priceless; the smell had really disgusted him! She couldn't help but smile impishly. "Goodnight Milind".

Milind sighed with relief his eyes and nose had had a lot to bear. He felt like a saint. A stinky wife with a lovely chest was something that only he could love! He thought it would be best if he slept with his children tonight. His nose had had too much to take.

Prachi made her way to her mother's room. "Thank you maa."

"Kis liyai beta?" What for child? Premlata smiled at her eldest daughter.

Aap ne mujhe papa ka studio kholne ki ijazat di thi is liyai. Aap mere saath ayenh mujhe aap ko kuch dikhana hai. You gave me permission to open up Papa's studio. Come with me, I want to show you something.

Premlata had been slightly confused at her daughter's request this morning. She wanted to use her father's studio which had been locked since his death. She had spent the whole morning having it cleaned. When Prachi had arrived home three hours ago she had brought a truck load of paintings with her. She hoped that her daughter would be showing her some of Inder's work.

Prachi handed over a pooja thali (prayer tray) to her mother and asked her to break the coconut at the door before entering. Premlata was thoroughly confused. Why would Prachi ask her to do such a pooja (prayer)?

"Maa papa ne mujhe chori chori se sikhaya tha." Maa papa taught me secretly.

She opened the door to reveal her paintings. Her mother slowly walked into the room and stared in awe at the beautiful work before her. She looked at her daughter and gave her the biggest hug possible.

Mujhe nahin pata tha ke meri beti itni talented hai. I didn't know my daughter was so talented. She was suddenly distracted by a very large painting.

"Kesi laggi maa?" What do you think maa?

"Bohat achi" Its really good.

"Menh soch rahi thi ke aaj raat is ko hall menh laga dunh." I thought that I should put it up in the hall tonight.

"Hanh beta laga deh. Mera aaj dil bohat hush he." Yes child, put it up. Today I am very happy. She gave another warm hearted hug to her daughter and called Ramu kaka to help Prachi.

"Papa jaldi aao!" Papa come quickly.

"Gerhh." Woken by a screaming Rithwick was not an ideal situation. It was 6 o'clock in the morning for god's sake! He couldn't wait until his children were teenagers at least he would get to sleep for a few more hours. "Papa!" Screamed, Rithwick again. He made a leap from the bed and ran towards his screaming son.

"Milind kamaskum kapre to pehan liya kar!" Milind at least wear some clothes!

"Baba Rithwick." He looked at his father anxiously.

Wo intezaar kar sacta he usse kuch nahin huwa. Pehle jaa kar kapre pehan le. Yeh achi baat nahin hai ke tu upne boxers menh ghoomai. Ab ja besharam kahin ka! He can wait, nothings happened to him. First go and put some clothes on. It not good for you to be wondering around in boxers. Now go you without modesty person (sorry that last sentence was awful!)!

Milind ran towards his bedroom and promptly collided with Prachi. Thank god she didn't stink anymore. She was, however wearing lovely set of Tom and Jerry pyjamas. He raised his eyebrow in query.

"Birthday present. Milly se." She looked uncomfortable. Shite! He wasn't wearing any clothes. He rushed into his room and quickly put on the first kurta that came into his hands. He could feel Prachi staring at him; he looked to see her smiling.

"Kurta ulta pehna hai aap ne." The kurta's the wrong way round.

"Rithwick bulah raha hai. Urgent hai." Rithwick's calling. It's urgent.

"Rithwick masti ka ustaad hai". Rithwick is the king of pranksters.

"Oh." He felt deflated, his own son playing pranks. He shook his head and smiled. Prachi smiled back. She had called him aap! This was the first time she had called him aap in a long time. It felt good.

!Papa!! Ao jaldi." Come quick. Screamed Milly as she entered their room. "Mummy it's beautiful". She kissed her mother in appreciation.

Milind was intrigued. What could be so beautiful that had excited both of his children? As Milly dragged him towards the hall he gave one last look to Prachi. Her face was devoid of any emotion. She was tense about something. Her look said it all.

"Dekhiyai papa." Look papa

Milind looked at where his daughter was pointing. A very large picture hung in the hallway. Milind was gob smacked. It was a picture of Milly and Rithwick play fighting with him. The laughter and the enjoyment had been captured so well. His love for his children was clearly evident. He took a closer look wondering when this picture had been taken. On closer inspection he discovered that it had been painted. He looked for a signature in the bottom right hand corner, but couldn't find one. He wondered who could have painted such a masterpiece.

"Mummy ne banai!" Mummy made it. Answered, his daughter.

"Kya? Really?" What really? He looked at Prachi for confirmation. Her slight nod was all that he needed. He was speechless. There were no words to describe how he felt. He merely stared at her.

Baba looked at his son, a small smile playing on his face. He had seen his son and daughter-in-law suffer at Ayesha hands. He had seen the love in Milind's eyes for Prachi. Yet this emotion was so raw, so full of love for his wife and children. He hoped that Prachi could also see his love.

Prachi saw the emotion in his eyes. The awe, the love that she had for his children was mirrored in his eyes. She also saw something that she hadn't expected to see. Love for her. A love that she thought she had lost. She stared at him as he slowly made his way towards her. He caressed her face, kissed her on the cheek and picked her up.

Part 25

He carefully placed her on the bed. Planting a quick kiss on her lips he removed a black beaded necklace from the bedside table. Without a word he, he hooked the precious beads around her neck.

"Aap mujhe se pyar karte hain, You love me." She stated simply, whilst fingering the old friend that adorned her neck.

"Yes. I have loved you before I even knew the real you. Loved you without knowing it myself. Loved you more every time you sacrificed yourself for me.

" Mene aisa kuch nahin kiya. Mene jhoot bola, dohkha diya. Mujhe aap se kuch nahin chupana chahiyai tha." I didn't do anything of the sort. I lied to you, cheated you, I should never have hidden anything from you.

"You did it to protect my sister. For that I will always be grateful. The last few days before you left were a torture for me. The abuse I hurled at you, everything I did. I was trying to get you to open up to me. I felt so hurt that you couldn't trust me. I even asked Neev to help me."

"You knew? I walked away from you because I thought you didn't love me." The joy and elation that she felt at this moment was incredible. Her milind had always loved her.

"Now I have my Prachi back. The old Prachi is back."

"Not quite Milind. This Prachi has changed a lot. She isn't a weak little mouse anymore!"

"I know! Sorry. I meant we can start afresh me and you. What do you say? Seee I'm asking you. Last time I told you! This is only because you are so scary!" he joked.

"I am so not scary!"

"Oh yeah? I still have bruises in places that you would be scared to look!"

"Oh I doubt that one Milind!" She giggled coquettishly, whilst staring at his beautiful frame.

"Prachi. Besharam! Ab menh tum ko maza chakata hunh!" Prachi you tease! I'll get you back!

"To menh ne kab rokha hai aap ko? So? I'm not stopping you! She laughed at his perplexed expression. "Yahan aye! Come here!"

It was some hours later that Prachi and Milind emerged out of their bedroom. Premlata looked up from her pooja to finally see a happy couple holding hands. As they slowly made their way towards her she grabbed the thali and came towards them.

"Beta Mangalsutra se bari cheez aik ourat ke liyai us ke pati ka pyar our wiskwaas hota hai. Aaj tum dono ke beech ye hai. Ab issai kabhi nahin thorna. Child a Mangalsutra is nothing compared to the love and trust her husband has for her. You now have this between you. Never let this go.

So saying she did their aarti and quietly gave them her blessings.

Part 26

"What the hell is going on?!"

"Yeh sab kya hai. Rithwick tu ne mera sara dress haraab kar diya! Idhar aa!" What is all this? Rithwick you've ruined my dress. Come here!

Rithwick stared at his masi she was drenched in pink colouring. He had tried to aim it at Neev Chacho but he had moved too quickly.

"Sorry Masi," He replied sheepishly.

"Sorry masi ke bachche. Yahan aa tujhe maza chakati hunh." You little miscreant let me teach you a lesson

Neev knew Ayesha was about to do something stupid. He ran and caught her just in time.

"Ayesha. Meri jaan!" My love He cried. "Kahan thi tu? Tujhe pata he tera bhootni jesa chehra me ne kab se nahin dekha?" where were you? He stood between them. There was no way that she would hurt him now. He signalled for Rithwick to run. Wese tere liyai aik surprise hai!"by the way there is a surprise for you

"Surprise? Tujhe pata hai mujhe surprises ka koi shoak nahin hai to yeh phir kya hai?" You know I hate surprises so what is all this?

"Wo to tumhain Milind hi bataye ga! Milind will tell you. All the best Ayyyeeeesha." He said as he sped off to make another target for Holi.

Yeh kesi surprise he jo milind mujhe bataye ga? Kahin wo mujhe se shadi karne ke liyai thayaar to nahin ho gaya? What sort of surprise has Milind planned? Maybe he's finally ready to marry me? With mounting jubilaition she entered the main courtyard. Every step was bringing her close to Milind. Every…

"Eeeh! Phir sai!"not again! She was drenched again. This time in a hideous blue colour

"Sorry", cried an angelic voice as she quickly ran past.

Is poorai ghar menh bachchon ki baaraat koan le ke aa gaya? Aik to Rithwick ke dost bhi na. is ki jab maa banoo ghi to seedhai boarding bhejunh gi! Sab shiarain banai menh lagai huwai hain. This whole house has turned into a kids menagerie. Rithwick friends, hunh! When I'm his mother, I'll send him straight to boarding school. That'll settle his craftiness. She could hear his laughter emanating from the balcony. He was drenched in so many different colours that his kurta had turned a mud brown colour. He looked so lovely and earthy. He was busy talking to someone. She couldn't see their face.

"Tu ne mera sara kurta haraab kar diya Prachi!" you've completely ruined my shirt.

"To?" so?she made a face at him.

"To? Tu mujhe TO keh rahi hai? Tu upne aap ko jaansi ki raani samjti hai." So? You're saying SO to me? He stared at the vision in front of him. His Prachi had worn a simple salwaar kameez this morning. Their water fights had left them both completely drenched. They had both been ordered by baba to put on a clean set of clothes before they caught a chill. Milind hadn't needed an excuse to drag his wife away. He knew the children were safe playing outside. Neev was keeping an eye on them.

"Hanh menh aap ko TO keh rahi hunh! Kya kar lenh ge aap?" yeah I'm saying SO to you. What are ya gonna do about it?

Milind gave her a 'don't mess with me' look. She knew what the look meant, was supposed to calm down with that look. She burst out laughing.

"Aggar aap mujhe bhang pilai gai to esa hi ho ga na?" If your going to make me drink weed, then obviously I'll be like this!

"Me neh tujhe nahin pillai. Neev ne pillai thi our tu ussai ghataghat pi bhi gayee!" I didn't make you drink it. Neev made you and you, you enjoyed every last drop of it! He couldn't help himself by laughing at her antics.

"Ab menh pata hai kya karunh ga?" now do you know what I'm going to do?

"Kya?" what?

He came ever closer to her sitting form. "Tujhe nehlaon ga." Bathe you

"Kya!!!! Nahin Milind dekho menh hosh menh hunh ab neechai chalo nah!" What!!! No Milind look, I'm completely sober, now lets go down. She hiccuped

"Hanh hanh chalta hunh. Pehle kapre badalne menh madat to kar lo. Hud pehan liyai ab mujhe bhi to pehnao!" yes yes, I'm coming, at least help me get dressed. You're dressed now get me dressed!

Prachi started to take slow deliberate steps. Just the way Milind had expected her to take. She slowly undid his buttons, moved her hands to his sides, making sure she touched as much flesh as possible she slowly pulled up his kurta.

He couldn't believe his Prachi had turned into a sexy siren. The last month had been blissful to say the least. Prachi and Milind had finalised on the paperwork and Guarav Kapoor had flown into sign the papers. He had wanted to gift the company to her but she refused on the grounds that she wanted to paint more. She was due to showcase her work very soon in a local gallery. He only hoped that she wouldn't submit her recent picture, a formal portrait of them both in traditional wear. She had made him so that she was seated and he was standing behind her. It was a beautiful portrait, except for the fact that she had painted them both with their tongues out!

Rithwick was much calmer at school. His teachers were astounded at the change in his behaviour. The attention that his mother lavished on him was doing wonders for his confidence. Neev and he had both been jealous of the time Rithwick spent with Prachi in her studio. She had really helped him with his art work, and to raise his confidence she had made a gallery of his work along the first floor corridors.

He had also finally gotten Milly into a dress. She had kicked and screamed and refused until Neev stepped in and charmed her into wearing it. He was very close to Milly, she had made him realise that the love of a daughter was a fatheer's most prized possession. He was incredibly proud of how Prachi had raised an independent and self reliant young girl.

Neev had found his happiness too. In the form of the wily Sur, Neev had finally found his match. She was flirtatious and funny and definitely gave Neev the run around. He knew his friend was finally happy.

He was brought back from his musings by a tickling sensation. Prachi's sexy ministrations had brought on her bhang filled giggles and she had started to tickle him!

"Prachi nahin karo." Prachi don't. He laughed. Please stop. Prachi! He gasped. He grabbed her arms and pulled her close. Their laughter stopped as they gazed into each others' eyes…

Muah! She kissed him! On the lips! He immediately let go and headed for the balcony.

"Me nichai jaa rahi hunh. Milind aap aa jaana. Mene abhi thak Neev se badla nahin liya. I think pink will suit him na?" I'm going down. You come soon. I still havn't paid Neev back. I think pink will suit him na?

"Hanh lekin tu balcony se kese jaye ghi. Prachi hey!"yes but how are you going by the balcony? Prachi hey! He screamed. Prachi had climbed over the balcony and had started to go down the climbing frame of the Ivy that hung so tightly to the wall. His whole body grew tense at the thought of losing her. Every foothold she took was agony until she reached the bottom.

"Kuch nahin hota ji.nothing happens luv" She calmly replied. "Aap stairs se neechai aa jana," you go down the stairs. she cried with laughter as she sped off. He sighed with relief.

"Milind"

He turned around to see Ayesha.

"Ayesha tum?" Ayesha you?

"Hanh menh. Ab bata meri surprise kahan hai?" yes me, now where's my surprise?

"Surprise?" He replied bemusedly.

"Hanh us Neev ne kaha tha mujhe." Yes that Neev told me.

Milind grew pensive. He knew that Prachi and Ayesha would collide at some point and that there would be fireworks. He hadn't prepared Prachi to deal with them meeting but he knew that as ever she would rise for the occasion.

"Chal menh tujhe dikhata hunh." Come I'll show you. He led her down the back stairs; he didn't want her to see Prachi's artwork. He stopped her on the patio and made her face the Holi scene taking place in front of them. Is Holi menh do naye chehre hain. In this Holii there are two new faces. Can you spot them?

"Milind yeh kya mazaak hai?" Milind is this a joke? She was confused. This wasn't Milind's style at all.

"Mazaak nahin yeh to teri surprise ki shuruvaat hai." This is no joke, this is merely the beginning. He replied in a very quiet voice. "Ab bata na." Now tell me

Ayesha gazed around the chaotic scene, she noted that Neev was messing around with Rithwick and a smaller child. "Wo bachchi Neev ke saath who naya hai. Us ne pehle mere upar blue rang dala tha." That girl with Neev, I've never seen her before. She doused me with blue water.

"Hmm. Our koi nazar aya?" Hmm. Can you spot anyone else? He asked politely.

Yeh milind bhi na! is ki games nirali hi hain. Seedhai batanai ki is ki aadat us Prachi ke saath challi gayee. Ab yeh…This Milind! His games are weird. He used to be direct, but since Prachi left, it looks like he his directness left too. And now… Her thought processes stopped. She closed her eyes and opened them. She couldn't quite believe it. There in front of her stood a smiling Prachi!