Kumkum Bhagya FF: An Alternative story - CH12 Updated on Page 33 05/08 - Page 15

"Just shut, I've already given you so much money to kill Pragya, but you couldn't even do that, you go and kill her, then i will give you the money myself"

"Tanu please just shut up, and you! What is the guarantee you won't give us up to the police once we pay you?"

He almost did not believe his ears or his memory of those moments some time ago, but Abhi had always been a see it to believe it kind of a guy, although he may have not seen much, his ears had heard everything he needed to know. As he drove around and around re hearing those prominent words, it was safe to say that the first stage in the after math was definitely confusion and disbelieve. His little sister and his girlfriend where behind this? But why? How? He drove around the city, not really paying attention to the road or where he was driving, But Before he knew it he was parked by the bridge along the beach he had first met Pragya. He didn't know what had made him go there, but the sound of the sea and the calmness of the beach washed over Abhi, soothing the raging fire of confusion and rage that was burning inside of him right now. Because of the time of evening, the beach was mainly empty bar a pair of obvious lovers walking there dog away from where Abhi was parked. He sat in his car watching them as they leisurely strolled by. They were walking along hand in hand. It was evident the two passers by were in love from the way the girls face lit up from something whispered carefully in her ear. Abhi had seen that smile before. It was the kind of smile his Fuggy wore when she had been around him. Abhi closed his eyes and rested his head on the back if his seat. He needed to think. After some time he got out of his car and slammed the door and with it, his fist against the metal of the frame. Standing there for a few seconds longer he tried hard to make sense of what he had seen and control the anger he felt towards himself. He sighed hard, turned around and began to walk along the beach. How could he have been so stupid. It all made sense now. The Corporator wanted Bulbul, Aliyah wanted Purab. That is why she had planned to have bulbul kidnapped. What he couldn't work out was whether she had approached him, or the Corporator had managed to corrupt his little sister. But what Abhi could not get over was the fact that Tanu had paid the Corporator to kill Pragya. The thought made Abhi physically sick. If anything had have happened to Pragya... He couldn't even think about it. There were so many times when they had been kidnapped that her life could have ended. His life almost had and she had breathed life back in to him. Quite literally. He continued to walk along the shore, the night was calm and starry, the sound of the ocean filled the salty air around him. He reached a large rock situated centrally. The tide had come in now so the bottom of it was layered with a shallow film of water. He climbed on top of it, sat with his legs crossed and looked out to sea. His eyes had begun to form tears. It all made perfect sense now, his sister could have easily taken his security key and had the video edited. She would have had access to the kind of cash in order to pay the Corporator. How could she do this to him? It felt as though all of his life he had fought to provide and protect for her, and she had not thought of him once. It seemed as though she was so caught up in her own selfish ways she hadn't even thought about something as basic as his safety. His head hurt greatly. He had given her everything and in return she did had planned to kidnap his wife's sister for her own selfish reasons. Even Abhi could not comprehend how self centred and dangerous she had become. And if that was not enough, his mind turned to Tanu. She had been apart of this the whole time.

"What did the commissioner say? Have they found Neil?"

Abhi had never felt so stupid in all of his life. How could he not have seen things sooner. It all made perfect sense now. Why hadn't be seen all the little signs that had pointed him in this very direction. Aliyah was the only person in that house with any real motive. She had managed to convince the entire household, including Purab and Bulbul that she had no ties with them other than friendship anymore and that she was learning to deal with her feelings. The truth was she had worn a mask this entire time to try and hide her true intentions. He still could not believe that Tanu had felt so threatened by Pragya she had very intentionally tried to have her killed. He knew she could be selfish and set in her ways, but to actually be vindictive enough to have someone's life taken from them? If Abhi had not have discovered what he did today and Tanu had of succeeded, he would be promising himself and his life to a cunning heartless woman. He physically shuddered at the thought. His thoughts instantly turned to those of Pragya. She had been so selfless in all of this. She had unknowingly been kidnapped and put through hell, she had sacrificed her own feelings and her life as she knew, it in order to do what she thought would make him happy. He cried fully now. What had he done? Aside the fact that he had married her under such horrible circumstances, she had continually put up with him and his ways to a point where she loved him and what had he done? Not even acknowledged his feelings. He ran away from them until she had no choice but to save her own heart. He was really crying now, sobbing hard, the shrills of his cries were a sharp contrast to the swoosh of the ocean that swayed a few feet before him. He hid his eyes in his hand and continued to cry. Abhi felt disgusted with himself. How had he gotten to this point. Because of him she had suffered so so much, and he had done nothing. It was as if all of a sudden a switch had been flipped and his body was drowning and burning at the same time with all the fear, pain and heartache his poor wife had endured. He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled the letter out she had left him. He opened it and re read the words again. It was almost as if the feelings he had felt reading this previously had amplified a thousand fold. It was like reading it again brand new. She clutched onto the letter and cried.

"Fuggy, me ne kya kar diya ap ke saath?" He thought out allowed through his heartbreaking sobs.

Not just Pragya though, but her entire family. They had treated him like their own, never ever making him feel as though he had married into the family. Pragya's own mother had always taken his side. Bulbul and Purvi had done nothing but shower him with love running about behind. "jeeju this and jeeju that." How on earth would he tell them that it was his sister responsible for the mess of the kidnapping. More so she had framed Purvi, and torn that family up from the inside out. They had done nothing wrong at all, they did not deserve this. On top of that they would have to deal with Pragya moving back and breaking up with him. He knew they would blame her and yet again she would be stuck with accusations and the struggle of rebuilding herself and her life. Abhi couldn't even begin to comprehend the damage his world had caused hers. The sensible thing to do now would be to leave her alone. Let her rebuild her life away from him. But he didn't want that. Now more than ever he knew he could not loose Pragya. He now understood she was the single best thing to have ever happened to his life and to let her go now would be the stupidest thing he would ever do. But what if it was too late? Abhi knew he was selfish like that, but he would fight until the end of time to make her his again. But what if she didn't want him, he could not imagine his life without her now, if he had to go on without her he couldn't guarantee he would survive without her. He couldn't not try though, He sat there on the rock still crying himself loudly into oblivion with all of these thoughts swilling around his mind. After some time, his sobs had begun to subside, all he could see or think about was Pragya. He climbed down off the rock and headed back to his car. Without knowing what he was doing, eyes still uncontrollably weeping, he walked back to his car, got in and put the keys in the ignition. He backed his car back on to the main road and drove his car to the only destination that would bring his heart and mind some sort of relief.

Back at the Mehra house, Aliyah was sat in her room nursing a large glass if Pinot Grigio. She sipped at her glass sparingly. The corporator had finally gotten in touch with her and made his demands. He wanted one crore rupees in five days, after that he had promised to disappear for good. She picked up her phone and pulled up his number on her contacts screen. He was simply saved as X. She stared at the number as though it would give her a much needed answer. She and Tanu had discussed at length what to do. After a while Tanu had left for her own house. She had told aliyah that she needed to go home and call her accountant and see if she was able to arrange the sort of money the corpoator had demanded, since his visit, Tanu had seemed on edge. They had spoken about where they could get the money. The instant reaction had been to fund this exactly the same way they both funded everything else. Abhi's bank account, but even Aliyah knew her brother would become suspicious if that large quantity of cash were to go missing. That too unaccounted for. The last thing she wanted was for that final pay off to be linked back to her house, at least if Tanu was to arrange the cash, her finances were something abhi wouldn't look to check. She sat still in her arm chair, occasionally sipping her wine. All the gloves were off, and everyone had laid their hands on the table. It was time to act now and fast. If he was caught it would be game over for her. She was so close to closing this matter off she could almost taste the victory with every sip she took. But the finishing line was still so far. She needed to think outside the box about obtaining this money, she knew she could not rely solely on Tanu. After all her career had been dying a death since Abhi had married Pragya. Since she was accustomed to a certain level of lifestyle she could not imagine Tanu making the best financial decisions in life. Aliyah knew ultimately this was something she may have to face alone, but she would use Tanu all the way up to the point she could and get away with it, after all if it was a question of her life versus Tanu. She would choose herself every time.

The Arora household had been shaken to say the least. It had been over a week that the youngest daughter of the house had been married off to an eligible young gentleman that doted on her. No one was more pleased with the alliance than Sarla ma. Unfortunately no sooner had she basked in the thought of both of her daughters being well settled into reputable families, her eldest daughter had dropped a bombshell on her a few days later. She had announced to her and her grandmother that she and her husband would be splitting up due to irreconcilable differences, and that she was not to worry, that life would be okay for her once again. Sarla ma had wanted to protest, but the defeated look in her daughters eyes had compelled her to remain strong for her child. She did not press for any details, instead hoped that after sometime both of her children, the rock star and the professor would eventually come to their senses. It had been a considerable length of time now, and neither one had contacted the other. Sarla was worried now, her daughter in this time had become a haunted shadow of her former self. She immersed herself in work, and looking after others. She completely neglected herself in this time and cared not of the affect her new lifestyle was having on her mind or body. The thought scared her more than anything, and she felt helpless. It had been one of those days again today, where Pragya had arisen early prepared breakfast and gone straight to work. At around lunchtime, rock star dadi had been home to receive a call to tell them that Pragya had collapsed at work. Sarla ma and dadi were beside themselves, thankfully suresh had been there to witness this, and insisted on taking her to the hospital for a full check up before she retuned home. He had dropped her home himself and given her family the doctors diagnosis before returning back to college. Dadi and Sarla didn't know what to do, Pragya had absolutely forbidden them to make a fuss over her. She was trying to be strong and handle everything on her own, so much so the doctor had diagnosed her with stress and post traumatic stress disorder following the events of the kidnapping. There was nothing they could do to ease her mind or tension, she had absolutely forbidden them to do so, claiming this was something she had to deal with herself. It had been a long day and it was late at night. Rock star dadi had finally managed to get Pragya to fall asleep after mixing some sleeping tablets into her milk. They knew part of the reason she had become so ill was due to the fact that she had trouble sleeping, Though she would not admit to this, dadi had had enough. It was time to intervene they could not sit back and watch Pragya deteriorate, and so she did what she thought best for her child. Drugged her into sleeping, even if it was only for one night. It had been several hours since Pragya had been put to bed and Sarla ma and dadi were mentally exhausted.

They were both sat In the front room of the house talking about the days events.

"Biji, muje bohat dar lag raha hai, Pragya ki liye, pata nahi, meri bachi ke saath esa kyu hota hai"

(Mum I'm really scared for Pragya, I don't know why this sort of thing always happens with her)

Rock star dadi nodded in agreement. Both ladies had a common growing concern for Pragya, neither could do anything to alleviate the situation. Seeing Pragya in this state had snatched them off any peace they had been feeling, it was hard to concentrate on anything else.

"Aur vo bi, kissi se baat tak nahi ki hai, Sab kuch andar chupa rahe hai, kya beethi hongi unke Maan aur dil pe"

(And she won't speak to anyone, she's hiding everything inside. What must her mind and heart be going through)

Sarla was speaking in hushed but very concerned tones. Scared she would wake Pragya up.

"Me janti hoon Sarla, lekin kya kariye? Behenji ne humse mana kiya hai kuch Karne ke liye, un hone kaha hai Sab theek ho jaye ga"

(I know Sarla, but behenji has told us not to do anything and that everything would be okay)

rock star dadi was trying to sooth her daughter in law, she didn't know if everything would be okay, but all she knew was she had to try and provide strength to her children,

"Lekin kab biji? Un hone keh to diya hai, Sab theek ho jaye ga, par kab, meri bachi ka halat bigar gayi hai, aur us dofor ko kuch nahi Hua hai...hum yaha kaise Aram se Beth sakte hai,"

(But when mother? She has said that yes, but when will everything be okay? Look at the state of my daughter and that idiot, well he's fine, how can we just sit here and rest)

Sarla's blood boiled at the thought of Abhi. She did not know what had happened exactly, but all she did know was that if he was not here fighting for her precious daughter, he was not worthy of her. The subject of abhi was quite a sensitive one still. The facts were still hazy, and Abhis dadi had explained that even she was not fully aware of the complete story, but whatever decision was made, must have been in Abhi's best interest. As far as they could see he had made no effort to contact Pragya, and it was their daughter that was suffering. They both continued to discuss the issue at hand when they heard a knock at the door.

"Is waqt kaun ho sakta hai?"

(Who could it be at this time?)

Sarla ma questioned and stood up heading towards the door. She reached out to the handle and opened the door. What she saw shocked her very core.

There on her doorstep, stood the Rockstar himself. But he did not look like his ususal handsome egotistic self. Instead in the doorway stood a man that resembled the rock star. His face was gaunt, swollen eyes the white in them the colour of blood. She could still see his ever fresh tears continuosly streaming out of his eyes. Sarla ma gasped horrified at his appearance and suddenly all the anger she felt five minutes ago vanished.

"Beta ji app..."

Her voice at first was shocked and soft, but in the next moment she remembered her daughter

"Apki himmat kaise hai, yaha ane ki liye, app jante bi hai apne kya kar diya, meri beti ki halat kaise banayi hai..."

(How dare you come here, do you even know what you have done, what state by daughter is in?)

She was shouting now, her anger visible for him to see. He stood there his deflated self drew both his hands together as if a man begging. Words failed him. He knew. And at that point in time Abhi was grateful that it was she who was unaware of what he had actually done. He bowed his head in shame before her. Rock star dadi had come to the door now,

"Sarla apki avaas nichi ki jiye, kitne mushkil se vo ladki ko sula diya hai, oooh jaye gi to phir se problem ho jaye ga"

(Sarla keep your voice down, we have gotten that girl to sleep with great difficulty. If she wakes up we will once again have a problem)

Abhi's ears pricked at the mention of "vo ladki" Pragya he thought. Without any thought he begged sarla ma

"Please mummy ji, muje Pragya se Milne do..."

(Please mummy ji let me see Pragya )

He was still crying as he said it to her. Sarlas heart was really torn. There in her front door way stood someone she loved as her own son. She had given him a place in her family, trusted her daughter to him, and from what she saw he had done nothing but abuse this. She didn't know what had happened exactly, but the state of her daughter compelled her to think the worse.

"Kyu? Phir se dil torna hai?"

(Why to break her heart again)

Sarla could not hide her anger, the mother in her wanted to comfort him. He was quite obviously distressed and considering this was the first time she had seen him since the wedding she had not expected him to look the way he did. Still he had hurt her daughter.

"Sarla shant rakho beta, abhi tum andar a jao"

(Sarla calm down child, abhi you come inside)

Rockstar dadi put her hands on his clasped ones, and pulled him into the house. She led him over to the sofa and sat him down.

"Sarla ja kar pani le ke ana"

(Sarla go and get some water)

Begrudgingly Sarla did as she was told. She didn't protest, but she made it quite obvious she was disappointed.

Abhi was sat on the sofa. He did not say a word. He sat there staring at a spot on the coffee table completely lost in himself. Dadi moved so that she was sat next to him now. She looked at Sarla stood in the kitchen and gestured her over with the water,

"Kya Hua beta, it ne raat par to yaha kya kar Rehe ho?"

(What's up son? What are you doing here so late at night)

She spoke softly so not to startle him. She felt her heart go out to him, he was visibly distressed and dadi could see that. If there was one thing she was sure of, it was Pragya loved Abhi, and if there was even the slightest hope that Abhi loved her too, she would not let anybody stand in the way if that. Even if she had to fight Sarla herself. Seeing Abhi in the state he was, her spirits lifted detecting that ever tiny glimpse of hope that he loved her too. She knew Sarla was just hurt by Abhi's actions, or lack of them, but ROckstar dadi had spoken with Abhi's grandmother at length. She remembered back to the conversation they had earlier that week

In the light of Pragya telling them she and Abhi would be breaking up, Abhi's Dadi had called her and Sarla to explain a few things. She was firstly sorry about the obvious. She told them how Pragya had come and explained to her with great difficulty the situation between her and Abhi. Dadi had also explained that she didnt have the full story yet and that she would not let Pragya leave so easily forever. She apologised for her grandson, and requested that they give her time to demonstrate to Abhi the error of his ways. Sarla had not been so keen, she was single track minded when it came to her children and harming them meant harming her, and she would absorb that pain every time. Rockstar Dadi on the other hand was more on a level with Dadi. Sometimes children needed their heads banging together to realise what was important in life. If a week or so of suffering meant that they could achieve a life time of happiness, then she was willing to let dadi carry out her plan, only on the condition that if things went too far, Rockstar dadi reserved the right to pull Pragya out of the relationship to put a stop to any further hurt. Dadi had agreed with full faith that Abhi would not let her down. Rockstar dadi thought back to her conversation and remembered the promise she had made. Today after Suresh had brought Pragya home, Dadi had planned to call Abhi's dadi and tell her she couldn't allow this anymore, Pragya's health was at stake, but now abhi was here, and maybe, just maybe things may actually get better.

Abhi continued to stare and silently cry. His hands were still clasped together as though he was praying. Sarla ma placed the water in front of him and sat down on the seat adjacent to Abhi and dadi. Slowly dadi reached her hand and placed it back on Abhi's. Abhi looked at her this time, she encouraged him to speak

"Batao na beta, hum tumhare apne hai" to this abhi sobbed louder and harder.

(Tell me beta, we are your own)

Without a thought he hugged rock star dadi and laid his head in her lap. How would he explain all the charges against him? Where would he begin in the chain of events that had led him here to their front door? He started with the one valid reason he could.

"Muje maaf ki jiye dadi, me apse haath jor se maafi maangta hoon, mene Pragya ke saath bohat galat kiya hai, me ne unse rokha nahi jab vo chali Gayi tab"

(Please forgive me dadi I am begging for forgiveness, I've done so wrong with Pragya. I didn't stop her when she left me)

Dadi soothed his hair, and hushed him. She let him cry. Sarla ma on the other hand was not quite so sympathetic.

"Kya faida hai ab maafi mang ne ke liye? Ap jan Te ho meri bachi ki halat kaise ho gayi?"

(What's the point of asking for forgiveness now? Do you know what state Pragya is even in)

Dadi tried to calm Sarla ma down, she knew she had every right to be upset at him and she could be so in due time. Had abhi have come here with arrogance, dadi would have reacted as Sarla had, but he had not. He was upset and it seemed he was in full realisation of any mistakes he may have made.

"Sarla bas, abhi waqt nahi hai"

(Sarla stop, now is not the time)

"Kaise nahi biji? App bhool gayi, apki pothi aj college me behosh ho kar hospital Jana pada? App bhool gayi doctor ne unse bare me kya kaha?"

(Why not mother? Have you forgotten your granddaughter fainted and had to go to hospital? Have you forgotten what the doctor said about her)

Abhi's head shot up out of dadis lap. What? Pragya had been admitted to hospital? But why?

"Kya Hua us se dadi, please bataye? Vo theek hai na? App please muje bataye?"

(What happened to her dadi, please tell me? She's okay isn't she? Please tell me)

Abhi was getting really worked up now. Aside from the fact he had caused her so much heartache, it was too much to take in that this may have had a permanent affect on her health. Dadi took pity on his state and cautiously explained to him, that after she had had come back home, she had told her and Sarla they were under no circumstance allowed to question or worry about her. She had threatened to leave town if she thought they were worrying about her. She could not get over this and deal with her issues if she had to continuously worry about her mothers health. She explained that they had been so scared of the change in Pragya, that they had agreed. Not knowing what it was they were agreeing to. She told him how she had stopped eating and worked every hour god sent in order to occupy her mind. She went on to tell him how the doctor today had diagnosed her with mild depression and post traumatic stress disorder after the kidnapping scenario. He had advised that it was quite common after a heinous experience like that, but Pragya had not really had the time to deal with any of it, this teamed with the trauma of separating from her husband had caused her body and mind to shut down, thus resulting in the situation they found themselves in today.

Abhi listened on stunned at what was being said. If it were even possible, he felt even more ashamed of himself. He shielded his eyes in his hands as he listened to dadi. All he wanted to do now was see her. He could not rest or would not feel any peace unless he glimpsed her just once. After dadi was finished they sat there in silence for a few minutes. After a while he addressed Sarla,

",mummy ji, me janta hoon ap mujse kitne Naraz ho, aur apko Pura haq hai, lekin meri baat manye, me dadi ki kasam kha kar kehe ta hoon, me meri poori zindagi koshish karunga ap ko manana ke liye, lekin app please mujse Pragya ko dekhne do,"

(Mummy ji, I know how mad you are at me, and you have every right to be, but please believe me I swear on my grandma, I will spend my entire life trying to make it up to you, just please let me see Pragya)

He was rambling words, Sarla ma didn't look as through she was faltering, but in her heart she knew he wasn't a bad guy. He had helped her and her family some many times, in the time they had both been married and he had done nothing but treat her with respect. Off course she was angry at him, he had hurt her daughter, but all she wanted was for them both to be happy. Looking at Abhi's state she realised that their happiness lay with each other, and Abhi's dadi had been right, he had just needed some time to realise life without her daughter was not worth living, though she disliked him at this very moment, she didn't hate him, she couldn't, for it was clear to her that he loved her daughter and all she did now was pray that god would rectify this situation. That didn't stop her from wanting to give him some grief through.

"App pagal ho Gaye kya? Kya guarantee hai ap phir se essa nahi Karne wale hai?"

(Have you gone crazy? What's the guarantee you won't do something like this again)

Abhi knew the road of redemption would be pathed with challenges. He was more determined than ever now to walk it, he didn't just need to convince Pragya to take him back, he would need to prove to his family he was worth taking back, after all there concerns were justified.

"Mummy ji, me Pragya ka dil phir se dookhane se pehle me mar jaunga...me janta hoon apka wishwas toot Gaye hai, lekin me apse vada karta hoon, apka, aur apki beti ka phir se vishwas jeet loonga"

(Mummy ji, I will die before I hurt Pragyas heart again, I know I have broken your trust, but I promise you I will win yours and your daughters trust back again)

Abhi was still crying, but he was more determined than ever now, to convince her. He would do anything, anything at all to see Pragya again. He wasn't making any empty promises, even if she didn't allow it he would keep coming back again and again until she did. Sarla looked away from him as though disgusted by the site of him. He was about to speak again when he felt a hand on his shoulder and dadi spoke this time

"Jao beta, vo unke kamre me hai, lekin usko oothana mat, bohat mushkil se unko neend ayi hai"

(Go son, she is in her room, but do not wake her, she has fallen asleep after great difficulty)

Abhi was shocked at first but slowly smiled in relief and hugged rock star dadi in gratitude, he was still a bit scared of Sarla ma, but before he went to Pragya, he got up and went to sit in front of Sarla with his hands drawn. He was still crying and he silently sat in front of her like that silently begging for her forgiveness.

Sarla couldn't really keep up the charade anymore, she knew she would cave in eventually, Abhi was so loveable after all. But that still didn't excuse the fact she felt greatly hurt by his actions. She slowly faced towards him again and observed his face. His eyes looked so sincere and apologetic, gradually the ice melted and she engulfed him into a large hug and cried.

"Bohat dil dukhaiya apne beta. Kya Karu, ek taraf tum mere beta jaise, aur vo meri beti, mere Jaan ka tookra hai vo"

(You have really hurt me son, what do I do? On one side you are like my son, and she's my daughter, a piece of my soul)

Abhi hugged her fiercely. He knew she had every right to be annoyed and he would never snatch that from her. He would regain her trust in time, right now all he needed to know was that there was an opportunity to do so. He pulled away and wiped her eyes and wiped his own and sincerely said

"Me apse promise karta hoon, aj se hum dono alag nahi honge, apka beta, aur apki beti dono eke jode hai, me vada karta hoon age se apko kabhi nahi choon na hoga"

(I promise you, from this day onwards we won't be separated, your son and your daughter will always be one, going forward you will never ever have to choose)

Sarla ma nodded in agreement and cupped his face,

"Lekin betaji, ap ko maana hoga un ko, kehte kuch nahi hai, lekin bohat dil

dookaiye hai un ka tumne, aur bohat dar lagta hai, kabhi der na ho jaye, vo ek saaiya ban chukhi hai, aur shaayad sirf app un ko bacha sakte hai, lekin ap jante ho na, vo kitni ziddi ho, bohat Naraz hai apse vo asaani se nahi man jaye gi"

(But son, you will have to pacify her, she doesn't say anything but she is extremely hurt, and I'm scared , what if its too late, she's become a shadow, and maybe only you can save her, but you know how stubborn she is, she is very annoyed at you, she won't come around easily)

"Koi baat nahi mummy ji, ap janti hai na muje challenge kitna pasand hai, aur Pragya meri zindagi se sab se badi jeet hongi"

(It's okay mummy, you know how much I love a challenge, and Pragya will be the biggest win of my life)

Sarla detected that hint of arrogance they knew and loved about him. She prayed to god that he was successful in his endeavours. She stood up and took him with her and hugged him. She blessed him and cupped his cheek.

"Yaad rakhna beta, ayinda tum ne esa kuch kiya to me apki saas ki Tara nahi, par apki ma ki Tara ap ko Jaan se mar daloongi samj Gaye app? Kyu ki mera beta esa phir se kuch nahi karenge"

(But remember son, if ever you do anything like this again, not as your mother-in-law, but as your mother I will kill you, do you understand, because no son of mine will ever do this again)

Abhi smiled at her double meaning threat. It filled him with joy that these people were his own. He felt so much more light. If there was anybody he felt ashamed to see more than Pragya it was her family. They had been so kind to him and he had hurt them in the worst way. True to their ever great nature, they had forgiven him easily and for that he was most grateful. Dadi and sarla were both stood in front of him now, he looked at them again, with a reassuring smile from one and a nod from the other, He walked into the direction or Pragyas room. He felt nervous and excited to finally see her after so long. So much so he had not noticed dadi and Sarla speak

"Me behenji se phone kar ke bata deti hoon, abhi yaha finally a Gaya hai, Pragya se Milne"

(I will ring behenji and tell her that abhi has finally come to see Pragya)

Sarla nodded to her mother in law. Finally she thought things were about to get back in track again.

-------------

Abhi raced towards Pragyas bedroom door as fast as his weary legs would take him. He was about to see his chashmish again, and the thought filled him with a glow that he just couldn't put into words. He stood outside her door reaching towards her door handle when he stopped dead in his tracks. What if she rejected him, or him being there made her more sick? He thought about it for a second and for one moment a fear engulfed him. But that pro Pragya voice in his head he should have listened to before said

"She's asleep, and heavily medicated, it's okay to go in an see her"

For the first time, he decided to do what the voice in his head told him. He put his hand on the door knob, took a deep breath, twisted it and entered into the darkened room.

Once he had entered he closed the door as quietly as he could and leaned against it. It took his eyes a moment to adjust to the dimly lit room. The only light that shone through was that of the moon. He stood leaning still, his eyes danced around the room and quickly found there target. The first thing he noticed, was what she was wearing, though her legs were covered with the blanket, her top half was covered in a white creased shirt. it looked very familiar to him. His heart did a small dance. She was wearing his shirt in bed. Did that mean there was still a freckle of hope? She was curled up on the bed in the foetal position, fast asleep. She was facing away from him and the door towards the middle of the bed. As quietly as he possible could, he edged his way around the room so that he could glimpse her face. He walked until he stood at the opposite side of where she was sleeping. His heart leapt and sunk at the same time, as the face he had so desperately craved to see came into view.

There she was, eyes closed curled up, hair fanned messily across her face. Abhi whimpered a little. Although it was dark, the light of the moon shone into the room highlighting her beautiful face. Abhi didn't need anymore light to see how her face looked gaunt, pale and dark circles rested under her eyes. He stood there just looking at her, taking her in. He walked around the bed further so that he was stood directly behind her head now, and bent down so that he was level with her. At the angle he was at, he couldn't see her face now, but he gently careened the side of her head and hair with his hand, moving some of the stray strands out of her face. She stirred slightly and Abhi immediately pulled his hand back. Dadis words kept floating into his mind, about how she had not slept for so long and that this was the first night she had. He didn't want to disturb her. The last thing he wanted right now was to wake her up and distress her even more. He walked back around to the opposite of the bed, and quietly sat on a chair next to the bed, and simply stared at her. He drank in all of her features and finally found a shred of rest for his aching burning heart. He could sit and look at her for hours. All he could think in that moment, was how beautiful and pure she looked and a fear enveloped him. What if she didn't want him anymore? What if she didn't give him the chance to fight for her? Abhi leaned back in the chair and rubbed his face with his hand. What was he doing here? He desperately wanted to see her, but he didn't want to just glimpse her like a theif stealing something precious in the darkness of the night. Then again this was the closest he would get to see her with her barriers down. If tomorrow she didn't want to see his face, then this was all he would have. He was about to get up and leave when he heard her sniffle. It was very quiet and gentle, but it sounded as though she was crying perhaps? Crying in her sleep? Abhi moved forward in his chair and gently leaned on the bed so that he could catch a closer glimpse, it may be dark, but he could see tears glistening slowly down her face in a constant stream. In that moment his heart bled. No wonder she hadn't been sleeping, her dreams were making her cry. He leaned across even closer and moved more of her hair away from her face. He heard it again. This time it was deeper almost more painful for her. All he wanted to do was comfort her, wake her up from her nightmare, take her in his arms and tell her he had been a fool, but he couldn't, he was so afraid that if she saw him in her room now, it would upset her even more than the dream or nightmare she was having and he didn't know which of the two was a lesser evil. He buried his own eyes into his hands as if in shame to wipe away the new tears that had formed in his own eyes. He was about to be consumed in self loathing thoughts again when this time he heard her mutter something in her sleep.

"Yaha kyu ate hai app"

(Why do you come here)

she spoke in mumbles and sobs. Abhi's head shot up at first fearing she was speaking to him and he had woken her up. But when he looked at her he saw her eyes were still firmly closed. He waved his hands across her face as close to it as he could get in his position to see if she was awake. She was talking in her sleep. But to who? He stayed perfectly still, fearing he may miss something if he moved. It was several seconds before she said anything again

"Jab app chale jate hai, phir mera dil toot jata hai"

(When you leave my heart breaks again)

It was too much for Abhi, he didn't want to hope, but he was 97% sure that she was dreaming of him. After all he had been the only one to have ever broken her heart, repeatedly at that. But her next words were more alarming

"App kyu atta hai, app please jaye vo ayenge phir se, unke pass bandookh hai, jaye please app jaye, app ko kuch ho Gaya to me mar janungi"

(Why do you come here, please go, he will come again, he has a gun, please go, if something happens to you I will die)

She was moving about in her sleep now, thrashing lightly against the bed. Her dream was obviously very distressing and Abhi could feel it as he watched her. She was sobbing now and he was certain she was dreaming about being kidnapped and him. God knows what context it was in, but it was a nightmare. Abhi couldn't handle it anymore, in one swift action he carefully and quickly got on the bed next to her and scooped her up. He brought his arm around her waist and pulled her into his chest as best he could with her moving frantically. He couldn't see her properly, but he didn't need the light to witness how much smaller her already slender frame had become. She was lighter if possible, therefore easier to manoeuvre and handle in order to bring her closer to him. He was trying hard not to wake her. But he needed to comfort her. More for himself than for Pragya. He could not bear the thought of her being haunted in her sleep. Pragya was still sobbing and moving about, Abhi had difficulty coaxing her into his embrace. After a few moments of strongly holding her in place to him and gently hushing her he felt her body relax. He soothed her hair and she started to settle again. He revelled in the feel of her soft body against his hard toned one. it felt so right to have her pressed closely against him. They were positioned so that her face was buried into his chest under his chin. He had both arms wrapped around her with his hands both cradling the back of her head holding her close to him.

"Sssh" he soothed quietly. He held onto her all the while soothing her hair and gently kissing the top of her hair and head.

Her cries had subsided now and her breathing had become even again. Unknowingly she moved into him further tucking her free arm through his armpit and cuddling him so that her hand grabbed his t shirt by his neck. He reciprocated by weaving his arms around her tighter. In that moment Abhi felt a paradox of emotions. His heart felt calm. He had no idea how much he had actually missed her until he had her here in his arms again. Where she belonged he thought. He leaned in against her head and took a deep breath. She still smelt just as good as he remembered and he did not care right now that tomorrow she would probably wake up and slap him. She could. She could beat him to an inch of his life of it meant that he would get to spend this one night with her like this. The other part of him felt angry though. Wild passionate rage. His sister and EX girlfriend had done this to her. Unknowingly he pulled her in closer as if unconsciously protecting her. He would deal with that tomorrow. Right now all he needed, all he wanted was to be with Pragya. He would deal with the consequences of everything else and handle his wife tomorrow. He continued to stroke her hair and frequently placing soft kisses on the top of her head. He almost didn't believe he was here with her. He held her and comforted her so tenderly as though she was a thin piece of glass. He desperately wanted to reassure her that he would from now on, always be there for her and would never let anything or anyone come close to hurting her again.

"Me kahi nahi jaunga, me yaha hoon, aur yaha hamesha rahoonga, apke pas"

(I am not going anywhere, I am right here and I will stay here with you forever)

He knew he did not deserve to feel any peace or soothing in his battered heart. But right now it was so hard to care. No matter what the issues were beyond this room and in his life, suddenly life didn't seem that difficult. As long as he had her he would be able to tackle and face anything life threw at him. If he needed any proof she still loved him, here it was. She had unknowingly answered the biggest question and fear he had. He lay there almost perfectly still with her safely tucked away in his arms. It had been along time since Abhi had slept well. Before he knew it he was drifting into the most peaceful night sleep, his final thoughts on the woman now resting securely in his embrace.

In the other room, Sarla ma was stood in the kitchen, eagerly hovering over her own mother in law, As she stood in the kitchen speaking to Abhi's grandma. Sarla was behaving like a petulant child, signalling with her hands and face for Dadi to tell her what Abhi's dadi was saying on the phone. Rockstar dadi, batted away her looking at her in an annoyed fashion.

" Ha ha, theek hai, koi baat nahi behenji, vo iss ghar ka beta Bhi hai, aur ye unka bi ghar hai"

(Yes yes, that's fine, no don't worry behenji, he is the son of this house and this house is his too)

Rockstar dadi verbally nodded on the phone. Sarla was becoming inpatient. She really loved her children. She had never worried about Bulbul the way she had worried about Pragya. She was always the one that blended into the background, always the one cast aside because of her studious looks and sensible ways. Pragya had taken on the welfare of the family from a young age. After her husband had left her, it fell on Pragya to grow up quickly and shield Bulbul's childhood at the cost of her own. The thought made her heart hurt and reach out for her first born. She knew her daughter had faced hardships even after she had married, after all marrying her off to a Rockstar came with its own level of problems. She hadn't ever forgotten how her daughter had been treated in that house after the fake MMS scandal, but neither could she forget everything Abhi had done for this family. It was for that reason she had agreed to go along with this charade. Abhi's dadi had promised he would come eventually, and when he did she was within her rights to grief him as much as she wanted, but she had asked, no begged her to not turn him away. After seeing him in the state he was before she had found it hard to even give him the grief she had planned to wash him in. Still Sarla stood there biting her nail. They were both stood in the kitchen careful so that Abhi didn't hear. After sometime Rockstar dadi hung up the phone and addressed Sarla.

"Kya kaha Masi ji ne?"

(What did aunty say?)

Rockstar dadi took Sarla by the arm, back to the front room and sat her down on the sofa.

"Un hone kaha ab abhi ko Pragya se maana hoga abhi, aur humne us ko chup chup se maddad karni hogi. Vo nahi chaati hum zabardasti se Pragya ko samjana, un hone khud esas hone chaiye ke abhi badal Gaya hai, aur vo kam sirf Abhi kar sakte hai"

(She said that Abhi must win over Pragya now, and we have to secretly help him, she doesn't want us to forcefully make Pragya understand, she needs to realise for herself Abhi has changed, and only abhi can make that happen)

Sarla wasn't completely convinced. She knew her daughter and she could be very stubborn. Not only stubborn, but once Pragyas mind was convinced of something it would be hard to change it back. If she came back here under the impression abhi didn't love her, then Abhi was about to have his work cut out for him. She sat silently for a moment then spoke

"Theek hai biji, lekin hum unka kaise maddad karenga? Aur Hum ye Sab ache kar Rehe na?"

(Okay mother, but how will we help him? And are we doing the right thing?)

All she wanted was for her kids to be happy. Rockstar dadi sensed her anxiety, and tried to reassure her. She held her hands and said

"Dekho Sarla, hum aur, Abhi ke dadi, Sab eki cheez chaate hai, Abhi aur Pragya phir se ek saath ho jaye. Aur unko hasil Karne ki liye hum kuch bi kar sakte hai, ap kyu tension le ti ho, Baghwan par chod de na"

(Look Sarla, we and Abhi's dadi want the same thing, for abhi and Pragya to get back together, and to achieve this we will do anything. Why are you stressing, just leave it to god)

Sarla ma nodded her head in disagreement, and began to protest

"Lekin biji..."

(But mum...)

Dadi interrupted her though.

"Lekin kuch nahi, behenji ne kaha ta na vo aa jaye ga? Aur dekho vo aa Gaye hai na? Barosa rakho beta..."

(But nothing, behenji said he would come for her, and look he is here isnt he? Have some faith child)

Sarla nodded in defeat. There was probably no more she could do anyway but leave things to god. She couldn't disagree with her mother in law though. True to Abhi's dadis word, he had come, okay it had only taken him a week, but then she was fully aware absence certainly did make the heart grow fonder. She hugged her mother who soothed her back. She stood up soon after,

"Me ja kar un ko dekhti hoon"

(Ill go and see him)

She stood up and walked towards Pragyas room. She wanted to speak to abhi about what his intentions and what his plans were now. She wanted to indirectly give her his blessing. She opened the door and walked in. She stopped and looked over at the bed. Her stern face had melted and her heart warmed at the sight before her. There they both were, completely cuddled together in bed looking as though two lovers would. Both were fast asleep, and she could see how Pragya clung to Abhi even in her sleep as he did her. She did not have the heart to wake him up now, he had looked just as exhausted and drained as Pragya had. She decided they could deal with this tomorrow, turning around quietly closing the door and leaving them both with their dreams.

----------------------------------------------

The sun had risen, and morning had broken. The Arora house hold was still and calm, compared to the busy city outside its walls. Nobody in the house was awake yet. The morning light slowly crept in and bathed the Rockstar and his wife, as they lay there on the bed exactly as they had the night before. Well not exactly as they had the night before. Abhi was led on his back now, still clutching his petite wifes body and head cradled closely to his body and chest. Her head was still resting underneath his chin, and his hands were still holding her neck and head in place against him. Her face was still buried into his chest, with one arm clutching tightly to his t-shirt and a leg swung over both of his. To an on looking set of eyes, the two looked so peaceful and comfortably asleep with each other. The only sound that could be heard was the livening traffic outside and the soft simultaneous snores of Abhi and Pragya.

Slowly Pragya began to stir. She had experienced a tough few days to say the least. After going to the hospital yesterday the doctor had strictly signed her off work, and tried to convince her to take on some help with all that she had been dealing with. But Pragya was a proud woman, and stubbornly insisted she was okay and didn't need the help. At best she had accepted sleeping pills to help her with no intention of actually using them. She had gotten home yesterday after suresh had brought her back and her mother and grandma were beside themselves. She felt bad for them in this situation, but Pragyas sole focus was to forget about Abhi and she would walk any path to ensure that happened for her own good. Dadi had forced her to eat a plate of food and commanded her to go to sleep. She had probably slept for over 18 hours now, and slowly as she emerged from her slumber the thoughts of yesterday began to surface in her mind. She opened her eyes slowly and the first thing she noticed was the hard solid chest she was lain upon. It took a split second to register she was not alone!

Abhi was still asleep. He had woken up a couple of times in the night just to reassure himself Fuggy was still with him. In those times he had woken, his mind was grateful and appreciative of the woman he had wrapped up in his arms. It was morning now and even though his sleep was broken, Abhi hadn't slept this well in ages. He was still dreaming when he felt something wriggle in his arms, this caused him to lift out of his slumber, but he kept his eyes closed.

Pragya on the other hand was finding herself locked in a vice like grip against this broad manly chest. She didn't need to see the chests owner to know whose it was. She let go of his T-shirt and tried to move her head back and up, but was unable to do so. She felt incredibly warm, and her treacherous Heart, the one she had managed to lock away and forget was banging on the closet door of her body trying to make her notice that he was in fact here. In her bed, holding her like she was a precious thing to his chest. She tried to move again but was unable to. What was he doing here? How did he get in? Why was he sleeping on her bed and why? It was probably fair to say that she was confused. Her mind was throwing question after question and the person that could answer them was fast asleep beside her. She felt annoyed, and in that moment she found some hidden strength and backed her way out of Abhi's embrace and sat up on the bed.

He could feel her wriggling around, and he wasn't doing anything to let her go. He was awake now and knew she would have a series of questions to throw at him, but at this stage he was still tired and wished his bespectacled beauty would calm herself, relax let him sleep and they could deal with her questions later. Wishful thinking abhi thought. The second she had freed herself from his arms, his eyes flew wide open. There she sat up next to him facing towards him. Her face looked thunderous. Abhi was smiling inside. He knew she was angry but he didn't care, he missed her, all of her and that included her wrinkled cute nose when she was annoyed at him. Slowly he sat up in bed, resting his back on the headboard and rubbed his eyes. They were both facing one, Pragya was sat with her knees crossed but raised up and her arms were folded over her chest. Abhi looked directly at her. She was still glaring at him, but had not spoken.

"Good morning Fuggy..."

She continued to glare at him. Eyesbrows and nose scrunched up, she didn't look happy.

"Dekho Fuggy kal rat..."

(Look Fuggy last night...)

She interrupted before he could continue. She didn't want a justification she wanted a plain simple answer.

"Kya kar Rehe ho yaha app? Kaise andar aya hai!!!"

(What are you doing here, how did you get in)

She was speaking in a raised voice now. He could tell she was flustered and the last thing he wanted was to distress her after what her grandma had told him about her health yesterday, but he needed to explain to her with out her getting worked up. He was beginning to wish he hadn't been so stupid last night and gotten into bed with her, but he knew there was no point dwelling over that now, given the opportunity again he would have done exactly the same.

"Meri baat suniye, Fuggy Aram se, me yaha tum ko hurt Karne nahi aya hoon, meri please baat suniye"

(Listen to me Fuggy calmly, I'm not here to hurt you, please just listen)

She didn't say anything but her face was still thunderous. He took her silence as a gesture to go on.

"Kal rat muje kuch pata chala, aur muje apki help chaiye, aur me yaha apse maafi mange aya hoon, me janta hoon mene apke saath bohat galat kiya hai"

(Yesterday night I found something out and I need your help and I came to apologise to you, I know I have done wrong with you)

He wanted to tell her he had been an idiot and that he was sorry and she was his world now, but he didn't want to tell her that here now in this state when she was so visibly angry at him, instead he approached with another angle.

"Muje kidnapping me bare me kuch pata chala, aur me janta hoon Purvi ki koi galati nahi thi"

(I know something about the kidnapping and I know Purvi wasn't at fault)

Pragya was confused. Why was he here to tell her this? He could have phoned or come at a reasonable time to discuss this. But no he was here in her bed, what would her mother say when she found out?!

"To ap muje phone kyu nahi kiya, yaha kyu aya hai"

(So why didn't you phone me, why have you come here)

Abhi knew he wasn't doing a very good job of this. In all honestly after he found himself here he had not actually planned what he would say to Pragya. He had been so relieved to feel her and see her all logic and reasoning had evaporated from his mind. She was sat so that her body was as compact as possible on the bed. She had crossed her arms across her body subconsciously trying to protect herself. Abhi's heart reached out for her. He sat forward and carefully took one of her hands in both of his and squeezed it reassuringly.

" me tum ko Sab kuch samjaunga, lekin pehle, I am sorry..."

She pulled her hand out of his shaking her head and started to say something

"Me ne ap ko pehle bi maaf..."

(I have already forgiven...)

Abhi interrupted her now shaking his head, taking her hand back into his,

"Nahi Fuggy me us ki liye nahi maafi mang raha hoon, me ne ap ko kabhi nahi Jane dene chaiye, meri life ki Sab se Bari galati hai, ke me ne apko us din dadi ke saath Baat Karne ki liye nahi roka"

(No Fuggy, I'm not talking about that, I am sorry I should have never let you go, the biggest regret of my life is not stopping you speaking to dadi)

Pragya was shocked. She looked away from him not able to meet his piercing gaze. Abhi could almost see the cogs in her professorish brain turning trying to process what he just said to her. He carried on speaking.

"Me janta hoon abhi ap ko vishwas nahi hai muje pe, lekin me phir se jeet loonga apka vishwas apka pyaar"

(I know you don't have any faith in me right now, but I will win your trust again, and your love)

Her eyes looked up at this and she snapped her hand back from him again. She was not ready to believe he had had a sudden change of heart just like that. She would not allow herself to get hurt again. She climbed off the bed and turned her back to him.

"Koi farak nahi parta hai, aur bohat der ho chuka hai, app please muje bataye app yaha kyu aye ho?"

(It's makes no difference it's too late just please tell me why you are here)

Abhi knew it was going to be difficult. He got off the bed and walked around towards her, he turned her around by putting his hand on her shoulder and gently coaxed her to face him.

"Pehli baat pehli, yaha nahi, lekin saach me tumhari maddad chaiye, kidnapping ke bare me muje bohat kuch pata chal Gaya, aur me nahi janta me kya karu, me janta hoon koi haq nahi hai apse tumhari maddad mang ne ke liye, lekin iss umid se aya hoon, Purvi bi apki behen ho, aur meri liye nahi to unki liye please muje help ki jiye?"

(First things first, not here but Ireally do need your help. I have found out lots bout the kidnapping and I don't know what to do, I know I have no right to ask your help, but I've come with the home that Purvi is your sister and if not for me then for her please help me)

Pragya looked into his eyes. She always knew when he was being sincere and this was definitely one of those moments. She knew she wanted to prove her sisters innocence in all of this but was unable to do so. He was here offering her a clue and olive branch and he was right, if not for him them at least for her sister she could help. She still had her arms wrapped around herself. She hadn't noticed that she was wearing Abhi's shirt still along with her churidar trousers from her anarkali suit she wore yesterday. The top two buttons were undone and Abhi was stood close enough to see the dip in her cleavage. He gulped but restrained himself. Pragya was fiddling with something around her neck deep in thought.

"Theek hai, me apki maddad karungi, lekin sirf Purvi ke liye"

(Fine I will help you but on,y for Purvi)

She was about to turn away when Abhi grabbed hold of her again. She turned to face him again slowly. Abhi's eyes were smouldering and his closeness to her was affecting Pragya, she didn't want to deal with those feelings again so desperately tried to maintain composure and distance. Abhi had noticed this.

"Me ne abhi meri baat khatam nahi ki Fuggy"

(I haven't finished what I was saying Fuggy)

This time his voice was soft and husky, it was the last thing Pragya needed to hear if she was to maintain any control of the situation. He continued

" dusri baat, me tum ko saabat karna chaata hoon, me acha pati ban sakta hoon, aur tum ko ghar le ne ko aya hoon"

(And secondly, I want to prove to you I can be a good husband and I've come to take you home)

Pragya laughed at this sarcastically. In response

"Kyu? Shaayad ap dekh nahi sakte lekin me yaha theek hoon, aur ap ko kaun se kaha muje pati chaiye, aur ap ke saath ghar phir se lautana chaati hoon?"

(Why? Maybe you can't see but I'm fine here, and who told you I want a husband, and that I want to return home with you?)

This was the best comeback Pragya could muster given the shock she was feeling. Her heart was sticking two fingers up at her brain telling it "I told you so" but Pragya was not ready to let go of her practicality. Abhi should have been discouraged by her words. But he continued to fight his corner.

"Me janta hoon, tum jhoot bolti ho, aur tum abhi Bhi muje pyaar karti ho"

(I know you're lying, and you still love me)

Pragya was astounded at his ego, how could he still stand there and mock her. She fought back

"Ap ko kya lagta hai, me apse pyaar karti hoon? Me teacher hoon, khud ko sikha diya hai, kaise pyaar se bahar ana"

(What do you think I still love you, I'm a teacher I've taught myself to fall out of love)

Abhi had to commend her for her efforts to thwart him. Unknown to her he probably would have been put off and given up on her, if her words were not the direct opposite of her actions. He was grateful for the information he stumbled upon when she was sleeping, and talking directly from her dream. He knew she still loved him, he understood though it would take time to bull doze through the Brick wall she had built around her heart and feelings. She turned around again but this time, he caught her by the waist and pulled her back onto the bed so that she was sat on his lap. He clamped both of his arms around her skinny waist and she struggled to get out of it. Abhi chuckled.

"App kya kar Rehe ho, muje chod do" Pragya struggled I'm his hold.

(What are you doing let go of me)

"Kabhi nahi chodunga ap se"

(Ill never let you go)

"Chod na pade ga ap ko, me nahi manti, kya guarantee ho, kabhi kabhi Tanu se pyaar karte hai, kabbi muje kehe Te ho ke chal ghar chalo, me kyu Manu? Chod do muje!"

(You will have to let me go, I don't believe you, what guarantee is there, sometimes you love Tanu, other times you say to me come let's go him, what should I believe?)

Abhi let go of her at her statement concerning Tanu. She was right he had given her no reason to believe he was different, coming here and telling her didn't prove this at all. She escaped the first chance she got realising he had loosened his grip on her. She stood to face him with her hands on her hips, scowl firmly back on her face

"Kya samja Te hai, ap ne ap ko?"

(What do you think of yourself?)

Abhi stood up and squared up to her so that his face was a near inch from her. He could feel her quickened breaths washing over his face. Her face softened instantly at his proximity as if he had just caught her off guard.

" kya tum mujse pyaar nahi karti?"

(Do you not love me?)

She looked away from him instantly and told him no.

"Jhoot..."

(Lies)

She looked up at him and opened her mouth to speak but was cut off.

"Tum jhoot boti ho... Pata kyu?"

(You are lying, do you know why?)

She was getting really flustered and annoyed at his audacity. His tone was soft and deep. It was almost unnerving. She closed her eyes and abhi could see her chest heaving up an down. She didn't answer him, but he continued anyway.

"Kyu ki ap ne letter me kaha tum abhi bi meri liye pyaar wale feelings ho,"

(Because in your letter you told me you still have feelings of love)

He started to circle her as she stood there with her eyes closed. Speaking slowly and close to her,

" pyaar nahi karte ho, to tum ye meri shirt kyu pehen chukhi ho?"

(If you don't love me, then why are you wearing my shirt)

He had circled her a full three hundred and sixty degrees so he was stood facing her. Reached out one of his fingers, and trailed it up from the top of her chest immediately up to her neck and caught her mangulsutra with it and pulled it out of the collar so that it was now in full view

"Pyaar nahi karti ho, to tum mere nam ka mangulsutra kya pehenti ho abhi?"

(If you don't love me then why are you still wearing the mangalsutra of my name?)

Pragya couldn't think straight. She was breathing heavily now and fast. She still had her eyes clutched closed. She could feel him so close to her, whispering in her ear. She felt him trail a finger up her neck and the small contact made her body explode in flames. She despised herself for responding to him in this way. But what should she do? He knew the of the affect he had on her and she her treacherous body dIdnt even try to hide that fact. Why did she choose to wear that damn shirt last night? She could have slapped herself for her own stupidity. Knowingly making herself vulnerable in front of him.

Abhi could see how flustered she was. He didn't want to push her, but she needed to know he didn't believe her words, and that he would continue to fight for her. It didn't matter to him whether she wanted that or not right now, eventually she would become accustomed to the fact he was here to stay. He stepped closer to her and tilted her chin up. There lips were so close now and Pragya still had her eyes closed.

"Ap ni ankhein kol di jiye"

(Open your eyes)

Pragya slowly fluttered her eyes lids open, she was met by his smouldering gaze. His hand was still under her chin and he used his thumb to brush over the side of her lips. Abhi so desperately wanted to kiss her. But he knew that would be one step to far at this stage. He needed to get her to trust him again and that would not be the way to do it. They stood staring at one another for a few moments when Pragya heard a knock at the door. Suddenly coming back to her senses she began to panic.

"Ma a gayi!! Ap ko Jana hoga"

(Mums here, you have to leave)

She instantly snapped out of any bubble she was in upon hearing her mothers voice,she placed her hands on Abhi's chest and pushed him towards the window when she heard her mother speak. Fearing she would kill him if she found him here,

"Pragya, beta ji? App ooth Gaye hai, chalo Nashta tyaar ho"

(Pragya, son have you woken up? Come breakfast is ready)

Pragya froze instantly,

"Beta ji?!?"

That meant her mother knew he was here. Pragyas face went from confusion to realisation. She turned to face abhi who was wearing that cheeky grin she had so desperately missed. He raised his eye brows comically towards her. So her mother knew he was here. She didn't know what to do or how to react. God help her, why was this happening. She was just learning to gain control of herself and everything around her, when suddenly a spanner in the shape of a Rockstar comes and throws himself into the works.

Pragya sighed and let go of Abhi. She silently prayed for some strength. For now she knew that Abhi had gotten her family on his side she was facing a very lonely battle. Most likely with herself. She didn't know what to do she walked over to the bed, sat down covering her face with her hands and began to cry.