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Page 1 - Stars in a Summer Sky (Multiple Ships)
Page 2 - A Magical Interlude (Prem and Meera)
Page 5 - Twice as many Stars in the Sky (Jacob/Bhav & Draco/Bhav)
Page 6 - What Dreams Are Made Of (Aradhna/Multiple Ships)
My very first Surprise Shot! I just had to write it. It's for the wonderful people I've mentioned within. Thank you for being so wonderful, all the time!
Bhav, Radz, Meera, Maddy, Shabo.....This one's for you guys....
And a very big thank you to Bhav for proofing it for me. Thanks a million Honey B:)
You turned a really dismal day (I was having) into one of the best I've ever had. Nothing I can ever say or do, can or will ever put into words, my appreciation. This is just a little 'Thank you' card. You guys are the best! I hope you like this. Thanks again.....for being so amazing!!!!!
Sorry for any mistakes/typos etc....
A/N: This SS has Maddy living in Germany and having a brother and sister (Two OFC's) (Maddy, apologise for making you move across the Atlantic....but the thought was so fixed in my mind, I couldn't work around it)
When true friends meet in adverse hour,
'Tis like a sunbeam through a shower.
A watery way an instant seen,
The darkly closing clouds between.
(Sir Walter Scott)
'Stars in a Summer Sky'
Mayank Sharma smirked slightly as he navigated the car smoothly around the narrow bend and blowing his hair out of his eyes, pushed his foot down on the accelerator, enjoying the ease with which they could now cruise along the Autobahn.
"Right way! Relax, my dear."
"We're going the wrong wayyy!"
He glanced at the girl seated next to him and smiled, pointing at the GPS. "Right way!"
The girl rolled her eyes at him, "Listen to me. Take the next exit and get off the Autobahn. This will not take us through the Romantic Road." She waved the Map she was holding in front of his face. "This will just…"
"Aradhna," he said slowly, "sweetheart, my directional skills are far superior…."
"Oh! Please!," retorted Aradhna, "As if.."
"What a car Mayank! What a car!" a voice from the back sighed with pleasure and Mayank turned back and grinned.
"Isn't it just Manav? Isn't it just!"
"Your cousin's really cool!" Manav told him.
"Which one?" asked Aradhna suddenly and was amused to see Manav's cheeks reddening slightly. She shot a wicked glance at Mayank, who looked at Manav assessingly through the rear view mirror and smiled conspiringly at Aradhna.
Suddenly Aradhna's hand phone beeped and she picked it up, her attention diverted.
"Bolo Manav," Mayank said snarkily, turning around and winking.
"Your cousin brother Arjun! You know whom I meant Mayank. Stop behaving like a girl!"
"Let A get off the phone! She'll have something to say to that!"
Manav smiled, "Maybe you haven't noticed but 'A' only has something to say to you at all times."
"Manav!" Mayank drawled, catching his eye in the rear view mirror, " Only I have the copyright to say 'A'.
"Oh! I am so sorry Mr. Sharma. I do hope I'll be forgiven," said Manav, trying to keep the smile off his face, "Such possessiveness is infinitely amusing by the way! For your information and all that"
"Ha Ha! Very funny! Manav. Good way to change the topic. Maddy's coming today itself by the way."
"Say that once more and I'm telling A, I mean Aradhna about how you keep chanting her name in your dreams."
"You wouldn't dare!" said Mayank lowering his voice, alarmed, and glancing quickly at Aradhna but she wasn't paying attention.
"Try me," retorted Manav smiling.
"Okay, okay, let's rewind a bit," said Mayank in a soothing voice, "Yeah! Where were we? Right! Arjun! My cousin. What did you say?"
Manav winked at Mayank, "I said that it's a pity he couldn't make it. And it's really cool that he's letting you drive his new acquisition."
"Yeah! Arjun Bhaiya's cool! He had to fly to London urgently, some business deal. Never mind, he'll join us tomorrow."
Manav said, "I couldn't believe it when he just handed you the keys! Boy! That too, a Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S!"
"This is one sleek car," agreed Mayank, "Check out the specs…," he tossed an illustrated sheet at Manav.
"Wow! 440 HP at 7,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 490 Nm at 4750 rpm! Is that engine power or is that…"
"I'm so sorry to interrupt this really fascinating discussion," said Aradhna sweetly, rolling her eyes at the two of them, "but Mayank, that was Meera. They are on the 309 to Fssen. And that was the last exit, which you so coolly bypassed."
"What!" said Mayank, looking askance at the GPS and then peering up to try and see the road signs ahead, "Oh! Fish and Blast!
"Very eloquent Mayu," murmured Aradhna, looking pleased, "next time, follow my rather inferior directions will you?"
Mayank muttered something under his breath and glared at Manav in the rear view mirror, who was winking at him, smiling as he mouthed "Mayuuuu!."
Aradhna turned and saw Manav's action, just as he snapped his mouth shut. But, not soon enough! She smiled at him, her words saccharine sweet, "It has been brought to my attention, Manav, that you want to paint Maddy as you think she's as beautiful as a Botticelli angel."
Manav stared at her, his mouth open. There was a cough and a hastily choked snigger from the driver's seat, which went unheeded. "How on earth…?" His cheeks were a burnt red. "Did Nonee….but I specifically asked her not…." He looked hurt, so Aradhna hastened to reassure him.
"Oh! No! Not Nonee," she told him firmly and then grinned, "the thing is Shabo and Preet were passing by and they kind of heard you."
Manav blinked.
"Not that they were eavesdropping or anything," she told him quickly.
"I know Shabo wouldn't," said Manav (Don't be so sure, muttered Aradhna, under her breath, a big smile on her face) but I wouldn't put it past Preet!"
"Not that it's a big deal," muttered Manav, his eyes on his lap, "I am also an artist, remember. And Madhuri is truly beautiful." He looked up and Aradhna smiled softly as she caught the light in his eyes as he spoke of Maddy.
"And she's so gentle and sweet. It would be a masterpiece, something that would go down in history. I don't know how to ask her though" he finished shyly.
"I think you should speak with her Manav," she said softly, "She will be there today. You'll never know until you try," she continued, effectively silencing his protest before it left his mouth.
Mayank opened his mouth to make a comment, then thought the better of it and tried to catch Aradhna's eye but she was looking at Manav, a soft look on her face. Mayank thought she looked like an angel right then. He didn't think it would go down too well if he mentioned it right then though. "Ummm, A, can you look at the Map please."
Aradhna directed a very superior look his way and haughtily opened the Map wider and peered into it carefully, "If you insist! Okay, so here's what you must do now…"
……………
"Can I get you something to drink Bhav?"
Bhav stretched her limbs contentedly. "Is there some of that awesome blackcurrant ice tea left? I'm parched!"
Jacob leaned over (Bhav tried not to notice the way his muscles rippled under his Tee shirt…..and failed) and pulled a jug out of the picnic basket. "I saved some for you. I know how much you like it."
Bhav smiled at him, "That's really sweet Jake." She took the glass from his hand and took a small sip. "Mmmmmm, this is heavenly. What does she put into it? Magic ingredient huh?"
"Ask her sometime," Jacob said quietly, "She'd definitely tell you. My grandmother loves you, you know that, right!"
Bhav looked up at him at that and just as quickly, glanced away, suddenly uncomfortable. Jacob was so open about his feelings. Sometimes, she just didn't know how to react.
"Are you having a good time here?" he asked her, lounging back against the tree they were sitting under.
"I'm having a lovely time here," she told him, smiling, "And I especially enjoyed the weekend I spent with your folks at your holiday home by Lake Constance. I'll never forget how welcome your Dad and grandmother made me feel from the very first moment I stopped into your home."
"You won't get the opportunity to forget," he told her softly and she could feel her cheeks heat up with the intensity of his gaze burning its way along her features.
"The first night you were at our place, after everyone had retired to their rooms, I was checking if the security systems were in place. And I saw Gran sitting next to the fireplace and looking at a few symbols in her hand," he continued softly.
"She reminded me of an ancient Quileute legend. Wia Walkala, goddess of all good things, is worshipped the first Monday after the full moon, at the hour when the night hasn't totally left us and dawn hasn't come in yet. At that time, the goddess appears before her High Priestess and conveys a message to her that bears significance to all our lives."
Bhav looked at him, utterly fascinated, her eyes drawn in by him, his voice sending hypnotic waves through her mind and body. "And," she whispered.
"My Grandmother is the current High Priestess of Wia Walkala," he told her softly, his voice low but intense.
"And during the last ritual," he continued, moving closer to Bhav, so he could look directly into her eyes, "just before she flew here," Jacob tucked a strand of hair carefully over her ear as Bhav stared at him wide eyed, "she saw you," he stopped and stared at her.
"She knew you were going to come into my life," he told her softly.
She just stared at him, unable to process anything he'd just said, her eyes locked with his beautiful, clear honey brown eyes.
Preet and Shabo walked upto them, arm in arm, an identical smile on each of their faces.
"Heyyyyy!" called out Preet, "Jacob, not fair! What about us? Is there any left for us?"
There was no answer. Bhav and Jacob sat there, still as two figurines carved in marble.
Preet and Shabo looked at each other and sighed.
"Bhav," Shabo waved a hand near Bhav's face energetically. No reaction!
"Okay! Okay!" Shabo sniffed dramatically, "Preet!"
"Shabo, meri Jaan, don't sniff so sadly! Our friends are cruel, the world is cruel. But remember, Main Hoon Na!" He put his arms around her and they both laughed, peeking at Jacob and Bhav who were looking into each other's eyes, totally oblivious. Or maybe, thought Shabo, they were just ignoring us!
"I like that!" said Shabo, sulkily, "if they're not looking, what fun is there?"
Preet tweaked her ear fondly. "I agree, meri Jaan! Let's find our other bakras. Chalo!"
"Lead the way my jaunty soldier!" instructed Shabo, laughing.
They walked on, whispering, plotting and planning, their bag of tricks full.
"Oh! Look at them," said Shabo, pulling at Preet's sleeve and pointing.
Preet's eyes gleamed.
………………
"Oh! We are so sorry for interrupting," said Preet cheerfully, as Shabo and he pounced into the little clearing where two figures were sitting a little too close to each other, "We hope you don't mind!"
"Yeah! We are so sorry," added Shabo, her eyes sparkling.
Meera rolled her eyes at them. "Can't you at least try to look sorry?" she asked them exasperated.
"Just scram!" Prem looked up at them, the light breeze blowing his hair into his eyes. Meera raised a hand and gently pushed his hair away. He smiled softly at her before narrowing his eyes at Preet and Shabo. "You did interrupt! And yes! We DO mind! So, off with you two! Leave!"
"Arre, PB, why are you getting so Hot and Bothered? Okay, come on Sha…"
Shabo suddenly shrieked, making Preet jump in the middle of his conversation and turn anxiously towards her, "What happ.."
"Oh! My! God!" Shabo was saying, one hand covering her mouth, the other pointing towards Meera.
Shabo sank to her knees before Meera and caught her hand.
"Preet, tumne yeh dekha," gasped Shabo, holding Meera's hand firmly and shoving it almost under his nose.
"Why are you showing me Meera's hand?" Preet asked Shabo, sounding puzzled, "Did something bite you Meera?"
Shabo rolled her eyes at Preet and stood up pulling at Preet's ear, "Stupid! That Ring was not there last night! Kuch Samjhe!"
Meera blushed and Prem immediately put an arm around her, taking her hand in his and lifting it to his lips.
"Prem," protested Meera, blushing rosily.
"Eeeeeeee!" yelled Shabo, laughing wildly as she threw herself on Meera, hugging her. "Yayyyyyyyyyy! Celebration time! PB and Meera! Yayyyyyyy!!!!!!
Preet was hugging Prem and saying something in his ear, which was making Prem blush.
Preet then came and disentangled Shabo from Meera, "Give her some air, Shabo dearest!" He then hugged Meera, "Welcome to the family Meera…..Bhabhi! Oh! Everyone's going to be so thrilled! Next celebration will be your wedding!Wonderful! Shabo, we have loads to organize and think about….Chalo"
They walked away, chattering to the dozen, both ecstatic with the latest development.
…………………….
Preet went and plonked himself on the rug next to Aradhna. "So, Radz, what took you guys so long!"
"Mayank's expert navigational skills!" she told him. "As usual!"
"Guess what!" piped in Shabo, her eyes almost jumping out of their sockets in her eagerness.
"About Prem and Meera," Radz asked, her eyes twinkling, laughing at the shock on both the eager faces in front of her.
"She…she…actually…"Shabo spluttered, "She,…." then recovering herself, "Oh! I am so going to kill her! We drove here together and does she tell me one thing! No, not a whiff!" She crossed her arms tightly and sat down looking very miffed.
Mayank, his hands carrying two ice cream waffles, sat down, shaking his head. "Don't let her get you like that Shabo," he said, handing a waffle to Aradhna, locking fists with Preet, the way they always did! He offered the other one to Shabo but she declined, looking decidedly sulky. "We ran into them as Prem was on his knees proposing! Just a couple of minutes ago…."
Aradhna looked at Mayank and shook her head! No sense of fun! She muttered under her breath. Shabo was raising her eyebrow at her. She smiled back at Shabo sweetly.
"Waise, A here was all for barging in and making them blush. Luckily, I was there to handle the situation in a mature and dignified manner!" said Mayank, tongue-in-cheek, glancing warily at the girl seated next to him.
"Oh! Right!" retorted Aradhna, narrowing her eyes and glaring at him ("Ouch!" said Mayank, clutching at his heart. That hurt A") She opened her mouth to say more but caught the little smile that was tugging at Mayank's lips. The lopsided smile she lov….liked, liked so much! And couldn't help an answering grin from appearing on her face. Mayank smiled at her, his eyes crinkling. And she smiled back at him, the argument forgotten.
Preet and Shabo looked at each other and rolled their eyes.
"Shall I ask Mayank if he has also come prepared with a ring?" asked Shabo, head on her knees.
Preet grinned, "you never know…..fellows are falling like flies here….."
Shabo smacked him on the shoulder, saying, "Just because you've never been afflicted doesn't mean you should make fun of those who are…."
"Afflicted!" laughed Preet, clutching at his stomach, "you're priceless!" He rolled on the ground. "What disease are you talking about?"
Shabo glared at him, "You know what I'm talking about. Lagta hai, the sun has gotten to you as well. I'm off. Maybe, I'll find some sane conversation in that corner."
She flounced off and Preet stared after her, a curious smile on his face as he watched her. She was so adorable!
………..
"Hey, Shabo," she turned to see who was calling out to her and waved at Manav, as he walked towards her, a drink in his hand. As she looked at him, she was again struck by the resemblance Manav shared with Preet. Of course, the resemblance was purely physical! They were first cousins after all! Manav and Preet were otherwise as alike as chalk and cheese.
"Hey Manav!" she waited for him to walk up to her.
"Where's Preet?" he asked her and she pointed vaguely in the direction she had just walked from. "Somewhere there."
"Phir se ladaai hui kya?" Manav asked with a smile and she shook her head.
"No!" she said slowly, "Why? Why did you think that?"
"No reason," piped in a new voice. Shabo rolled her eyes at the newcomer. "No reason at all! In fact, we are very happy to see you here like this! Alone! Away from Preet! For once!" Maddy said, her voice sugary sweet.
"Hi Madhuri," Manav said softly, "Did you just get here?"
"Just got here," Madhuri smiled at Manav, "Call me Maddy. Everyone does."
"But Madhuri is such a lovely name," he told her smiling and Shabo's ears curled upwards, intrigued. Was Maddy blushing? She peered at Maddy's face. Gosh! She was! And Manav! He was as pink as the pink panther!
Shabo smiled inwardly, pleased. Hadn't she told Preet just yesterday that she thought Maddy and Manav were so cute together! And Preet! He had just refused to agree! 'Manav is too shy! He doesn't look at girls!'
Balderash! Here, Manav was making Maddy blush! And the way he was gazing at Maddy was actually making Shabo blush! Well, it would if she could! Which was basically the same thing!
"You love roses, do you not?" Manav was asking Maddy who was nodding and smiling.
"There's this beautiful little rose garden that side of the Lake," Manav said, "Would you like to see it?"
Maddy smiled, her face lighting up, she loved roses. "I would love that," she told him softly.
They walked away together, Manav tucking Maddy's arm into the crook of his elbow.
"Thanks for asking me guys. But, I don't think I want to see the Roses," Shabo muttered into the empty space left behind by Manav and Maddy. "Yeesshh!!! What is with everybody today?"
"First signs of lunacy! Speaking to oneself," a familiar voice whispered into her ear and she turned around arms akimbo.
"Well, you would know!" she retorted, "Being a certified lunatic and all!"
"But you love me right," Preet asked her cheerfully, pulling her hat away.
"Maybe, I should be certified after all!" muttered Shabo, reaching out to pull her hat back. But her eyes were smiling. She couldn't stay mad at Preet for more than a few minutes anyway!
……….
"Bhav, be careful," Jacob cautioned her as she balanced herself on the narrow branch tapering over the lake. "You stay back. Let me do this."
"No, Jacob, the branch might not hold your weight! I'll do it." She told him and then smiled reassuringly at the little blonde haired child sucking her thumb, big fat tears rolling down her cheek, her nanny wringing her hands and generally being useless.
"I'll get your ball back okay," she told the baby in the little German that her friend Nonee had taught her. The nanny nodded suddenly and started chattering to the baby in fluent German, smiling gratefully at Bhav.
She said something to Bhav in german which flew totally over her head. "I like the way neither Arjun, Nonee, Adi or Ananya are here to help us out. And where's Maddy?"
"Take care Bhav….And don't worry. I'm holding on to the branch," Jacob told her softly.
"And the water's shallow this side. If you do fall in, just give me your hand and I'll pull you out quickly," he told her.
"You better," she turned and told him, halfway out on the branch, "I can't swim!"
Jacob stared at her, "Come back," he said sharply, "I'll go!"
"Don't fuss! I've got it." She picked up the Ball and turned to walk back when a large Magpie, fascinated by the diamonds glinting in her ear, flew close to get a better look. The sudden movement startled Bhav so much that she overbalanced and fell in, too shocked to even scream.
"Bhav," screamed Jacob, pulling off his Tee shirt and jumping into the lake. At the same time, Radz and Mayank, who were walking by, saw Jacob jump in and they came running, Radz yelling for help. Soon, Shabo, Preet, Meera, Prem, Maddy and Manav had all come running. Jacob had already gotten to Bhav and had an arm around her, as they watched, too shocked to speak.
As Jacob walked out, Bhav in his arms, the others crowded around, trying to get to Bhav. "I'm fine," croaked Bhav, her voice shaking, "no worries! Chill Guys!"
Jacob placed her gingerly on the grass, her head resting in the crook of his arm, her body across his lap. He pushed her hair back gently with his other hand, "Are you alright Bhav, look at me!"
"I'm fine, Jacob," she said softly, her teeth chattering a bit, "I'm fine!"
"I think she needs a change of clothes," Radz announced suddenly, "let's get back to the hotel."
"Right!" nodded Jacob, "I'll bring her along" He stood up, lifting Bhav into his arms.
"Jake," she protested weakly, "I can walk. Put me down"
"You can practise walking tomorrow. I'm not letting you out of my sight!"
"He'll have to," whispered Preet naughtily in Shabo's ear, "How will she get changed otherwise?"
"Shut up Preet!" Shabo whacked him, "This is so not the time for that sort of thing!"
"Everything's okay now…..Bhav's fine. If you ask me, Jacob's the one who looks like he needs help," muttered Preet.
Shabo shook her head at him, "Behave!" she warned.
"Radz, I'll come along," she called out and walked with Radz and Jacob. Meera and Maddy joined them.
Later, they were all seated by the Lake, having dinner at the outdoor restaurant. It was a lovely evening. The sky was still bright, summer just in the initial stages of putting in it's bid to change into autumn. And the bright colours in the sky were reflected in the azure waters of the Lake. There was a light breeze blowing and birds were still chirping, still enjoying the last few hours of daylight. An idyllic lovely evening!
"Anybody miss us?" a cheerful voice broke into the quiet evening and they all looked at the figures walking towards them.
"Nonee, Adi, Ananya, where have you guys been?
"Nonee, do you know?
"Adi, you'll never guess?
"Ananya, and then….
Everyone started talking all at once and Nonee, Adi and Ananya were quickly acquainted with all the happenings of the day.
"Are you alright Bhav?" Nonee went across to Bhav and hugged her tight. Adi and Ananya hovered around and hugged her as well.
"If anything had happened to you Bhav," began Nonee tearfully…
"I would have died," said Jacob quietly, soft enough only for Bhav to hear.
Bhav felt tears welling up in her eyes and she blinked fiercely.
Nonee was saying something else but Bhav's ears were ringing with another low deep voice.
She looked at Nonee, "Hush! Nonee! Don't cry. Hush! There's nothing the matter with me."
Nonee looked uncertain but she moved to a vacant chair and sat down, looking pensive.
"I retrieved the ball and gave it back to the little child, by the way," announced Preet, looking proud of himself.
Nonee smiled at him wanly while Shabo patted him on the shoulder.
"Guys, cheer up," said Bhav firmly, "Stop looking like the World just ended. All that drama should be reserved for Nonee. We've all come here, from different parts of the world to take part in the festivities associated with Adi and Ananya's wedding. Beginning with their engagement party tomorrow evening."
Everyone smiled and cheered.
"And it's so wonderful how everything's fallen into place," continued Aradhna, "I mean, we girls have known each other for ages, of course, and then, slowly, we all got to be friends," she looked at the guys as she spoke.
"And one fine day, Adi and Ananya met and fell in love. I think it's only fitting that all of us gather together to celebrate their journey into holy matrimony," said Meera solemnly.
"And I think that all of you should be acquainted with the news that we have to start planning another wedding almost as soon as this one's done," announced Shabo happily. Meera blushed and Prem caught her hand and pressed it affectionately. Everyone cheered loudly, Nonee lapsing into her trademark dramatic scream.
"Oh! My! God! Oh! My! God! How utterly wonderful!" Nonee was saying over and over again.
"Bring out the champagne, I say," said Preet loudly.
Everyone cheered again, hugging Prem and Meera.
"And that's just one confirmed couple," added Preet mischievously, "I think there are a few more in the pipeline," he winked at Mayank and looked pointedly at Aradhna. Aradhna glared at Preet, her eyes promising quick retaliation and he shut up just as quickly as he'd started.
Manav leaned back in his chair, gazing at Maddy, who looked at him enquiringly. "Thanks for agreeing to sit for a painting." "Thanks for asking," she told him, smiling. "You have the most beautiful eyes in the world," he told her softly. She blushed, looking down at her fingers. And those eyelashes ought to be outlawed, he thought, gazing at her perfect profile longingly.
Shabo caught Preet's eye and began whispering something in her ear. They both turned and stared at Manav and Maddy, who became instantly conscious of their look and immediately looked away from each other, blushing.
Bhav looked from Shabo to Preet, winking at Shabo suggestively and the unthinkable happened. Shabo suddenly blushed and Preet, who turned to speak to her at that very moment, stood dumbstruck. "Haye, mein Mar Jawan!" he whispered softly.
Mayank patted the little package in his jeans pocket. They were little Sapphire ear rings, something Aradhna had mooned over, a couple of days ago while they had been browsing the Malls. It would go perfectly with the outfit she'd picked out for tomorrow's function. All he had to do now was find the perfect moment to give it to her. "Come with me for a walk after dinner," he whispered softly and she looked at him, nodded softly and smiled.
Nonee looked around her and smiled. Everyone looked so happy. Prem and Meera, Aradhna and Mayank, Jacob and Bhav and of course, Preet and Shabo. And Adi and Ananya. True, she hadn't been so thrilled about Ananya being her Bhabhi initially, she had had different plans*Sigh* But fate had made other plans for them.
But the best thing was that they all had each other, friendship like this was very very rare. And who knew, maybe, in the years to come, they would forge many more relationships, keeping the love between them alive for years and years to come……..
"Good friends are like stars.... You don't always see them, but you know they are always there"
(Unknown)
Big hugs:)
Love:-Nonee
Page 2 - A Magical Interlude (Prem and Meera)
Page 5 - Twice as many Stars in the Sky (Jacob/Bhav & Draco/Bhav)
Page 6 - What Dreams Are Made Of (Aradhna/Multiple Ships)
My very first Surprise Shot! I just had to write it. It's for the wonderful people I've mentioned within. Thank you for being so wonderful, all the time!
Bhav, Radz, Meera, Maddy, Shabo.....This one's for you guys....
And a very big thank you to Bhav for proofing it for me. Thanks a million Honey B:)
You turned a really dismal day (I was having) into one of the best I've ever had. Nothing I can ever say or do, can or will ever put into words, my appreciation. This is just a little 'Thank you' card. You guys are the best! I hope you like this. Thanks again.....for being so amazing!!!!!
Sorry for any mistakes/typos etc....
A/N: This SS has Maddy living in Germany and having a brother and sister (Two OFC's) (Maddy, apologise for making you move across the Atlantic....but the thought was so fixed in my mind, I couldn't work around it)
When true friends meet in adverse hour,
'Tis like a sunbeam through a shower.
A watery way an instant seen,
The darkly closing clouds between.
(Sir Walter Scott)
'Stars in a Summer Sky'
Mayank Sharma smirked slightly as he navigated the car smoothly around the narrow bend and blowing his hair out of his eyes, pushed his foot down on the accelerator, enjoying the ease with which they could now cruise along the Autobahn.
"Right way! Relax, my dear."
"We're going the wrong wayyy!"
He glanced at the girl seated next to him and smiled, pointing at the GPS. "Right way!"
The girl rolled her eyes at him, "Listen to me. Take the next exit and get off the Autobahn. This will not take us through the Romantic Road." She waved the Map she was holding in front of his face. "This will just…"
"Aradhna," he said slowly, "sweetheart, my directional skills are far superior…."
"Oh! Please!," retorted Aradhna, "As if.."
"What a car Mayank! What a car!" a voice from the back sighed with pleasure and Mayank turned back and grinned.
"Isn't it just Manav? Isn't it just!"
"Your cousin's really cool!" Manav told him.
"Which one?" asked Aradhna suddenly and was amused to see Manav's cheeks reddening slightly. She shot a wicked glance at Mayank, who looked at Manav assessingly through the rear view mirror and smiled conspiringly at Aradhna.
Suddenly Aradhna's hand phone beeped and she picked it up, her attention diverted.
"Bolo Manav," Mayank said snarkily, turning around and winking.
"Your cousin brother Arjun! You know whom I meant Mayank. Stop behaving like a girl!"
"Let A get off the phone! She'll have something to say to that!"
Manav smiled, "Maybe you haven't noticed but 'A' only has something to say to you at all times."
"Manav!" Mayank drawled, catching his eye in the rear view mirror, " Only I have the copyright to say 'A'.
"Oh! I am so sorry Mr. Sharma. I do hope I'll be forgiven," said Manav, trying to keep the smile off his face, "Such possessiveness is infinitely amusing by the way! For your information and all that"
"Ha Ha! Very funny! Manav. Good way to change the topic. Maddy's coming today itself by the way."
"Say that once more and I'm telling A, I mean Aradhna about how you keep chanting her name in your dreams."
"You wouldn't dare!" said Mayank lowering his voice, alarmed, and glancing quickly at Aradhna but she wasn't paying attention.
"Try me," retorted Manav smiling.
"Okay, okay, let's rewind a bit," said Mayank in a soothing voice, "Yeah! Where were we? Right! Arjun! My cousin. What did you say?"
Manav winked at Mayank, "I said that it's a pity he couldn't make it. And it's really cool that he's letting you drive his new acquisition."
"Yeah! Arjun Bhaiya's cool! He had to fly to London urgently, some business deal. Never mind, he'll join us tomorrow."
Manav said, "I couldn't believe it when he just handed you the keys! Boy! That too, a Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S!"
"This is one sleek car," agreed Mayank, "Check out the specs…," he tossed an illustrated sheet at Manav.
"Wow! 440 HP at 7,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 490 Nm at 4750 rpm! Is that engine power or is that…"
"I'm so sorry to interrupt this really fascinating discussion," said Aradhna sweetly, rolling her eyes at the two of them, "but Mayank, that was Meera. They are on the 309 to Fssen. And that was the last exit, which you so coolly bypassed."
"What!" said Mayank, looking askance at the GPS and then peering up to try and see the road signs ahead, "Oh! Fish and Blast!
"Very eloquent Mayu," murmured Aradhna, looking pleased, "next time, follow my rather inferior directions will you?"
Mayank muttered something under his breath and glared at Manav in the rear view mirror, who was winking at him, smiling as he mouthed "Mayuuuu!."
Aradhna turned and saw Manav's action, just as he snapped his mouth shut. But, not soon enough! She smiled at him, her words saccharine sweet, "It has been brought to my attention, Manav, that you want to paint Maddy as you think she's as beautiful as a Botticelli angel."
Manav stared at her, his mouth open. There was a cough and a hastily choked snigger from the driver's seat, which went unheeded. "How on earth…?" His cheeks were a burnt red. "Did Nonee….but I specifically asked her not…." He looked hurt, so Aradhna hastened to reassure him.
"Oh! No! Not Nonee," she told him firmly and then grinned, "the thing is Shabo and Preet were passing by and they kind of heard you."
Manav blinked.
"Not that they were eavesdropping or anything," she told him quickly.
"I know Shabo wouldn't," said Manav (Don't be so sure, muttered Aradhna, under her breath, a big smile on her face) but I wouldn't put it past Preet!"
"Not that it's a big deal," muttered Manav, his eyes on his lap, "I am also an artist, remember. And Madhuri is truly beautiful." He looked up and Aradhna smiled softly as she caught the light in his eyes as he spoke of Maddy.
"And she's so gentle and sweet. It would be a masterpiece, something that would go down in history. I don't know how to ask her though" he finished shyly.
"I think you should speak with her Manav," she said softly, "She will be there today. You'll never know until you try," she continued, effectively silencing his protest before it left his mouth.
Mayank opened his mouth to make a comment, then thought the better of it and tried to catch Aradhna's eye but she was looking at Manav, a soft look on her face. Mayank thought she looked like an angel right then. He didn't think it would go down too well if he mentioned it right then though. "Ummm, A, can you look at the Map please."
Aradhna directed a very superior look his way and haughtily opened the Map wider and peered into it carefully, "If you insist! Okay, so here's what you must do now…"
……………
"Can I get you something to drink Bhav?"
Bhav stretched her limbs contentedly. "Is there some of that awesome blackcurrant ice tea left? I'm parched!"
Jacob leaned over (Bhav tried not to notice the way his muscles rippled under his Tee shirt…..and failed) and pulled a jug out of the picnic basket. "I saved some for you. I know how much you like it."
Bhav smiled at him, "That's really sweet Jake." She took the glass from his hand and took a small sip. "Mmmmmm, this is heavenly. What does she put into it? Magic ingredient huh?"
"Ask her sometime," Jacob said quietly, "She'd definitely tell you. My grandmother loves you, you know that, right!"
Bhav looked up at him at that and just as quickly, glanced away, suddenly uncomfortable. Jacob was so open about his feelings. Sometimes, she just didn't know how to react.
"Are you having a good time here?" he asked her, lounging back against the tree they were sitting under.
"I'm having a lovely time here," she told him, smiling, "And I especially enjoyed the weekend I spent with your folks at your holiday home by Lake Constance. I'll never forget how welcome your Dad and grandmother made me feel from the very first moment I stopped into your home."
"You won't get the opportunity to forget," he told her softly and she could feel her cheeks heat up with the intensity of his gaze burning its way along her features.
"The first night you were at our place, after everyone had retired to their rooms, I was checking if the security systems were in place. And I saw Gran sitting next to the fireplace and looking at a few symbols in her hand," he continued softly.
"She reminded me of an ancient Quileute legend. Wia Walkala, goddess of all good things, is worshipped the first Monday after the full moon, at the hour when the night hasn't totally left us and dawn hasn't come in yet. At that time, the goddess appears before her High Priestess and conveys a message to her that bears significance to all our lives."
Bhav looked at him, utterly fascinated, her eyes drawn in by him, his voice sending hypnotic waves through her mind and body. "And," she whispered.
"My Grandmother is the current High Priestess of Wia Walkala," he told her softly, his voice low but intense.
"And during the last ritual," he continued, moving closer to Bhav, so he could look directly into her eyes, "just before she flew here," Jacob tucked a strand of hair carefully over her ear as Bhav stared at him wide eyed, "she saw you," he stopped and stared at her.
"She knew you were going to come into my life," he told her softly.
She just stared at him, unable to process anything he'd just said, her eyes locked with his beautiful, clear honey brown eyes.
Preet and Shabo walked upto them, arm in arm, an identical smile on each of their faces.
"Heyyyyy!" called out Preet, "Jacob, not fair! What about us? Is there any left for us?"
There was no answer. Bhav and Jacob sat there, still as two figurines carved in marble.
Preet and Shabo looked at each other and sighed.
"Bhav," Shabo waved a hand near Bhav's face energetically. No reaction!
"Okay! Okay!" Shabo sniffed dramatically, "Preet!"
"Shabo, meri Jaan, don't sniff so sadly! Our friends are cruel, the world is cruel. But remember, Main Hoon Na!" He put his arms around her and they both laughed, peeking at Jacob and Bhav who were looking into each other's eyes, totally oblivious. Or maybe, thought Shabo, they were just ignoring us!
"I like that!" said Shabo, sulkily, "if they're not looking, what fun is there?"
Preet tweaked her ear fondly. "I agree, meri Jaan! Let's find our other bakras. Chalo!"
"Lead the way my jaunty soldier!" instructed Shabo, laughing.
They walked on, whispering, plotting and planning, their bag of tricks full.
"Oh! Look at them," said Shabo, pulling at Preet's sleeve and pointing.
Preet's eyes gleamed.
………………
"Oh! We are so sorry for interrupting," said Preet cheerfully, as Shabo and he pounced into the little clearing where two figures were sitting a little too close to each other, "We hope you don't mind!"
"Yeah! We are so sorry," added Shabo, her eyes sparkling.
Meera rolled her eyes at them. "Can't you at least try to look sorry?" she asked them exasperated.
"Just scram!" Prem looked up at them, the light breeze blowing his hair into his eyes. Meera raised a hand and gently pushed his hair away. He smiled softly at her before narrowing his eyes at Preet and Shabo. "You did interrupt! And yes! We DO mind! So, off with you two! Leave!"
"Arre, PB, why are you getting so Hot and Bothered? Okay, come on Sha…"
Shabo suddenly shrieked, making Preet jump in the middle of his conversation and turn anxiously towards her, "What happ.."
"Oh! My! God!" Shabo was saying, one hand covering her mouth, the other pointing towards Meera.
Shabo sank to her knees before Meera and caught her hand.
"Preet, tumne yeh dekha," gasped Shabo, holding Meera's hand firmly and shoving it almost under his nose.
"Why are you showing me Meera's hand?" Preet asked Shabo, sounding puzzled, "Did something bite you Meera?"
Shabo rolled her eyes at Preet and stood up pulling at Preet's ear, "Stupid! That Ring was not there last night! Kuch Samjhe!"
Meera blushed and Prem immediately put an arm around her, taking her hand in his and lifting it to his lips.
"Prem," protested Meera, blushing rosily.
"Eeeeeeee!" yelled Shabo, laughing wildly as she threw herself on Meera, hugging her. "Yayyyyyyyyyy! Celebration time! PB and Meera! Yayyyyyyy!!!!!!
Preet was hugging Prem and saying something in his ear, which was making Prem blush.
Preet then came and disentangled Shabo from Meera, "Give her some air, Shabo dearest!" He then hugged Meera, "Welcome to the family Meera…..Bhabhi! Oh! Everyone's going to be so thrilled! Next celebration will be your wedding!Wonderful! Shabo, we have loads to organize and think about….Chalo"
They walked away, chattering to the dozen, both ecstatic with the latest development.
…………………….
Preet went and plonked himself on the rug next to Aradhna. "So, Radz, what took you guys so long!"
"Mayank's expert navigational skills!" she told him. "As usual!"
"Guess what!" piped in Shabo, her eyes almost jumping out of their sockets in her eagerness.
"About Prem and Meera," Radz asked, her eyes twinkling, laughing at the shock on both the eager faces in front of her.
"She…she…actually…"Shabo spluttered, "She,…." then recovering herself, "Oh! I am so going to kill her! We drove here together and does she tell me one thing! No, not a whiff!" She crossed her arms tightly and sat down looking very miffed.
Mayank, his hands carrying two ice cream waffles, sat down, shaking his head. "Don't let her get you like that Shabo," he said, handing a waffle to Aradhna, locking fists with Preet, the way they always did! He offered the other one to Shabo but she declined, looking decidedly sulky. "We ran into them as Prem was on his knees proposing! Just a couple of minutes ago…."
Aradhna looked at Mayank and shook her head! No sense of fun! She muttered under her breath. Shabo was raising her eyebrow at her. She smiled back at Shabo sweetly.
"Waise, A here was all for barging in and making them blush. Luckily, I was there to handle the situation in a mature and dignified manner!" said Mayank, tongue-in-cheek, glancing warily at the girl seated next to him.
"Oh! Right!" retorted Aradhna, narrowing her eyes and glaring at him ("Ouch!" said Mayank, clutching at his heart. That hurt A") She opened her mouth to say more but caught the little smile that was tugging at Mayank's lips. The lopsided smile she lov….liked, liked so much! And couldn't help an answering grin from appearing on her face. Mayank smiled at her, his eyes crinkling. And she smiled back at him, the argument forgotten.
Preet and Shabo looked at each other and rolled their eyes.
"Shall I ask Mayank if he has also come prepared with a ring?" asked Shabo, head on her knees.
Preet grinned, "you never know…..fellows are falling like flies here….."
Shabo smacked him on the shoulder, saying, "Just because you've never been afflicted doesn't mean you should make fun of those who are…."
"Afflicted!" laughed Preet, clutching at his stomach, "you're priceless!" He rolled on the ground. "What disease are you talking about?"
Shabo glared at him, "You know what I'm talking about. Lagta hai, the sun has gotten to you as well. I'm off. Maybe, I'll find some sane conversation in that corner."
She flounced off and Preet stared after her, a curious smile on his face as he watched her. She was so adorable!
………..
"Hey, Shabo," she turned to see who was calling out to her and waved at Manav, as he walked towards her, a drink in his hand. As she looked at him, she was again struck by the resemblance Manav shared with Preet. Of course, the resemblance was purely physical! They were first cousins after all! Manav and Preet were otherwise as alike as chalk and cheese.
"Hey Manav!" she waited for him to walk up to her.
"Where's Preet?" he asked her and she pointed vaguely in the direction she had just walked from. "Somewhere there."
"Phir se ladaai hui kya?" Manav asked with a smile and she shook her head.
"No!" she said slowly, "Why? Why did you think that?"
"No reason," piped in a new voice. Shabo rolled her eyes at the newcomer. "No reason at all! In fact, we are very happy to see you here like this! Alone! Away from Preet! For once!" Maddy said, her voice sugary sweet.
"Hi Madhuri," Manav said softly, "Did you just get here?"
"Just got here," Madhuri smiled at Manav, "Call me Maddy. Everyone does."
"But Madhuri is such a lovely name," he told her smiling and Shabo's ears curled upwards, intrigued. Was Maddy blushing? She peered at Maddy's face. Gosh! She was! And Manav! He was as pink as the pink panther!
Shabo smiled inwardly, pleased. Hadn't she told Preet just yesterday that she thought Maddy and Manav were so cute together! And Preet! He had just refused to agree! 'Manav is too shy! He doesn't look at girls!'
Balderash! Here, Manav was making Maddy blush! And the way he was gazing at Maddy was actually making Shabo blush! Well, it would if she could! Which was basically the same thing!
"You love roses, do you not?" Manav was asking Maddy who was nodding and smiling.
"There's this beautiful little rose garden that side of the Lake," Manav said, "Would you like to see it?"
Maddy smiled, her face lighting up, she loved roses. "I would love that," she told him softly.
They walked away together, Manav tucking Maddy's arm into the crook of his elbow.
"Thanks for asking me guys. But, I don't think I want to see the Roses," Shabo muttered into the empty space left behind by Manav and Maddy. "Yeesshh!!! What is with everybody today?"
"First signs of lunacy! Speaking to oneself," a familiar voice whispered into her ear and she turned around arms akimbo.
"Well, you would know!" she retorted, "Being a certified lunatic and all!"
"But you love me right," Preet asked her cheerfully, pulling her hat away.
"Maybe, I should be certified after all!" muttered Shabo, reaching out to pull her hat back. But her eyes were smiling. She couldn't stay mad at Preet for more than a few minutes anyway!
……….
"Bhav, be careful," Jacob cautioned her as she balanced herself on the narrow branch tapering over the lake. "You stay back. Let me do this."
"No, Jacob, the branch might not hold your weight! I'll do it." She told him and then smiled reassuringly at the little blonde haired child sucking her thumb, big fat tears rolling down her cheek, her nanny wringing her hands and generally being useless.
"I'll get your ball back okay," she told the baby in the little German that her friend Nonee had taught her. The nanny nodded suddenly and started chattering to the baby in fluent German, smiling gratefully at Bhav.
She said something to Bhav in german which flew totally over her head. "I like the way neither Arjun, Nonee, Adi or Ananya are here to help us out. And where's Maddy?"
"Take care Bhav….And don't worry. I'm holding on to the branch," Jacob told her softly.
"And the water's shallow this side. If you do fall in, just give me your hand and I'll pull you out quickly," he told her.
"You better," she turned and told him, halfway out on the branch, "I can't swim!"
Jacob stared at her, "Come back," he said sharply, "I'll go!"
"Don't fuss! I've got it." She picked up the Ball and turned to walk back when a large Magpie, fascinated by the diamonds glinting in her ear, flew close to get a better look. The sudden movement startled Bhav so much that she overbalanced and fell in, too shocked to even scream.
"Bhav," screamed Jacob, pulling off his Tee shirt and jumping into the lake. At the same time, Radz and Mayank, who were walking by, saw Jacob jump in and they came running, Radz yelling for help. Soon, Shabo, Preet, Meera, Prem, Maddy and Manav had all come running. Jacob had already gotten to Bhav and had an arm around her, as they watched, too shocked to speak.
As Jacob walked out, Bhav in his arms, the others crowded around, trying to get to Bhav. "I'm fine," croaked Bhav, her voice shaking, "no worries! Chill Guys!"
Jacob placed her gingerly on the grass, her head resting in the crook of his arm, her body across his lap. He pushed her hair back gently with his other hand, "Are you alright Bhav, look at me!"
"I'm fine, Jacob," she said softly, her teeth chattering a bit, "I'm fine!"
"I think she needs a change of clothes," Radz announced suddenly, "let's get back to the hotel."
"Right!" nodded Jacob, "I'll bring her along" He stood up, lifting Bhav into his arms.
"Jake," she protested weakly, "I can walk. Put me down"
"You can practise walking tomorrow. I'm not letting you out of my sight!"
"He'll have to," whispered Preet naughtily in Shabo's ear, "How will she get changed otherwise?"
"Shut up Preet!" Shabo whacked him, "This is so not the time for that sort of thing!"
"Everything's okay now…..Bhav's fine. If you ask me, Jacob's the one who looks like he needs help," muttered Preet.
Shabo shook her head at him, "Behave!" she warned.
"Radz, I'll come along," she called out and walked with Radz and Jacob. Meera and Maddy joined them.
Later, they were all seated by the Lake, having dinner at the outdoor restaurant. It was a lovely evening. The sky was still bright, summer just in the initial stages of putting in it's bid to change into autumn. And the bright colours in the sky were reflected in the azure waters of the Lake. There was a light breeze blowing and birds were still chirping, still enjoying the last few hours of daylight. An idyllic lovely evening!
"Anybody miss us?" a cheerful voice broke into the quiet evening and they all looked at the figures walking towards them.
"Nonee, Adi, Ananya, where have you guys been?
"Nonee, do you know?
"Adi, you'll never guess?
"Ananya, and then….
Everyone started talking all at once and Nonee, Adi and Ananya were quickly acquainted with all the happenings of the day.
"Are you alright Bhav?" Nonee went across to Bhav and hugged her tight. Adi and Ananya hovered around and hugged her as well.
"If anything had happened to you Bhav," began Nonee tearfully…
"I would have died," said Jacob quietly, soft enough only for Bhav to hear.
Bhav felt tears welling up in her eyes and she blinked fiercely.
Nonee was saying something else but Bhav's ears were ringing with another low deep voice.
She looked at Nonee, "Hush! Nonee! Don't cry. Hush! There's nothing the matter with me."
Nonee looked uncertain but she moved to a vacant chair and sat down, looking pensive.
"I retrieved the ball and gave it back to the little child, by the way," announced Preet, looking proud of himself.
Nonee smiled at him wanly while Shabo patted him on the shoulder.
"Guys, cheer up," said Bhav firmly, "Stop looking like the World just ended. All that drama should be reserved for Nonee. We've all come here, from different parts of the world to take part in the festivities associated with Adi and Ananya's wedding. Beginning with their engagement party tomorrow evening."
Everyone smiled and cheered.
"And it's so wonderful how everything's fallen into place," continued Aradhna, "I mean, we girls have known each other for ages, of course, and then, slowly, we all got to be friends," she looked at the guys as she spoke.
"And one fine day, Adi and Ananya met and fell in love. I think it's only fitting that all of us gather together to celebrate their journey into holy matrimony," said Meera solemnly.
"And I think that all of you should be acquainted with the news that we have to start planning another wedding almost as soon as this one's done," announced Shabo happily. Meera blushed and Prem caught her hand and pressed it affectionately. Everyone cheered loudly, Nonee lapsing into her trademark dramatic scream.
"Oh! My! God! Oh! My! God! How utterly wonderful!" Nonee was saying over and over again.
"Bring out the champagne, I say," said Preet loudly.
Everyone cheered again, hugging Prem and Meera.
"And that's just one confirmed couple," added Preet mischievously, "I think there are a few more in the pipeline," he winked at Mayank and looked pointedly at Aradhna. Aradhna glared at Preet, her eyes promising quick retaliation and he shut up just as quickly as he'd started.
Manav leaned back in his chair, gazing at Maddy, who looked at him enquiringly. "Thanks for agreeing to sit for a painting." "Thanks for asking," she told him, smiling. "You have the most beautiful eyes in the world," he told her softly. She blushed, looking down at her fingers. And those eyelashes ought to be outlawed, he thought, gazing at her perfect profile longingly.
Shabo caught Preet's eye and began whispering something in her ear. They both turned and stared at Manav and Maddy, who became instantly conscious of their look and immediately looked away from each other, blushing.
Bhav looked from Shabo to Preet, winking at Shabo suggestively and the unthinkable happened. Shabo suddenly blushed and Preet, who turned to speak to her at that very moment, stood dumbstruck. "Haye, mein Mar Jawan!" he whispered softly.
Mayank patted the little package in his jeans pocket. They were little Sapphire ear rings, something Aradhna had mooned over, a couple of days ago while they had been browsing the Malls. It would go perfectly with the outfit she'd picked out for tomorrow's function. All he had to do now was find the perfect moment to give it to her. "Come with me for a walk after dinner," he whispered softly and she looked at him, nodded softly and smiled.
Nonee looked around her and smiled. Everyone looked so happy. Prem and Meera, Aradhna and Mayank, Jacob and Bhav and of course, Preet and Shabo. And Adi and Ananya. True, she hadn't been so thrilled about Ananya being her Bhabhi initially, she had had different plans*Sigh* But fate had made other plans for them.
But the best thing was that they all had each other, friendship like this was very very rare. And who knew, maybe, in the years to come, they would forge many more relationships, keeping the love between them alive for years and years to come……..
"Good friends are like stars.... You don't always see them, but you know they are always there"
(Unknown)
Big hugs:)
Love:-Nonee
Shiv Shakti
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