Kumkum Bhagya FF: An Alternative story - CH12 Updated on Page 33 05/08 - Page 21

Hi!

I'm really sorry about the very very late update! Life has been hectic to say the least! Thank you again for all your encouraging words and too all my lovely story stalkers :-) this is for all of you! Had you not encouraged this chapter would have taken much longer to update! As ever you comments and feedback are very valued! I really hope you enjoy that next part... Like all good instalments filler chapters are necessary and this is one... But after this the story should take an exciting twist! Thank you again to all that have liked and commented enjoy!!

Love Rix

It had been a surprisingly long day for abhi and Pragya. After there talks about what they would do they had scaled the rest of the hillside and then climbed back down the quick way. The sun had begun setting as they were coming back down, washing the ever splendid view in a hue of golden red light. It had been a perfect ending to an amazing day. They had stood still for a couple of minutes to watch the sun finally set on them. It was so romantic. Abhi had noticed Pragya get a chill as they had waited and being a gentleman, had taken off his jacket and gently placed it around Pragyas shoulders catching her again completely by surprise. They had finished off the evening by having dinner at a small hillside cafe they had found while they wondered back to the Cabin. It was as if Pragya had completely forgotten all about the past week and stress she had felt, her heart yearned for Abhi, but she couldn't let her guard down just yet. Dinner was an intimate affair. They had both sat next to each other. It was a quaint rustic place with good hearty home made food, and cute little tables and sofa like chairs. As the light was fading, there were candles set on each table. The setting was perfect. It was a quiet establishment, designed to cater for a small number of diners. the restaurant was open, at the front so that the guests could enjoy the views of the valley and reserve. The inside was also wooden and quaint. The menu consisted of rustic indian dishes, and Abhi had let Pragya order for the both of them. there were four or five other tables occupied, mainly couples and one family consisting of parents and a toddler. They had eaten their meal together, chattering away leaning in to one another like lovers would. Pragya didn't realise it but she had been relaxed the whole time. abhi was making her laugh and making fun of her, as well engaging in interesting chatter. On lookers would believe they were a couple made In the heavens themselves.

She felt so comfortable around him. When he was being this way with her, it was hard to remember why she had left him or what the reason for them being apart was. She couldn't help but notice him making so much effort with her, and for once she allowed herself to just enjoy it. When they weren't bickering her conversations with him were interesting, he was so quirky with his ways and his out look on life was so different to hers, his opinions were always fascinating. His stories were always animated. The whole time there were an ever present sensation of butterflies in her stomach and every so often a wave would wash across her when she really looked at him. There were a few times he had caught her off guard when she caught herself staring at him. He would lean forward and gently move the strands of her fringe away from her eyes and tuck them softly behind her ear. Every time he made contact, every nerve cell across her body sprang to life and caused her to loose her breath. She didn't feel nervous with him, able to speak completely freely and also taunt him back. She had missed that. Her body,mind and heart for once were at one with each other. Everything felt incredible. There was never a time when they had just gone on a date, was this what this was? The butterflies they were painful and pleasurable all at the same time. They only time she came out of this reverie was if a waiter graced there table to check on them. She allowed herself to enjoy the feeling, it was impossible to fight it. Right now she didn't even want to.

Abhi noticed how she had come into her own. She spoke to him with zest and animation in her voice. She allowed him to be close to her and be himself. He was careful not to over load the affection on her but chose to do other cute things like eat out of her plate and feed her with his fork, nothing intense, but friendly and playful. As a result she had plunged her fork into his plate on several occasions too. Abhi was on cloud nine the whole time. His heart swelled for her, his wife. There were a couple of occasions where she had wiped the corner of his mouth with her hand. Sometimes she remembered and pulled her hand away, but at other times she did it without even realising. He wanted so badly for her to just let her walls down and let him take care of her, but he knew he had to give her space. If she was like this with him for the rest of their lives, he wouldn't mind. He hoped though that one day they could be more. Every minute she was in front of him, he couldn't ignore the growing attraction he felt towards her. She was beautiful, her heart and intelligent mind were one thing, but her eyes were captivating. Her body was something else. He had always found girls in the glamour industry all the same. He had never learnt about the other side of attraction, the side that makes you crave the ways of a person you didn't know. Wanting to feel them, touch them, talk to them, hear their laugh. She wore no make up, unlike the others, yet he could sit and stare at her face and body all day. She never dressed provocatively and that frazzled his mind. He imagined and fantasised what her soft curves would feel like under his hard muscular ones. She was exquisite. If she ever decided to give herself to him he would make sure it was in a time he was worthy of it. There were niggles of his own character still cordoning through briefly through the night. he was ever determined though to make himself worthy of her. He had to pinch himselves several times through the night how had he not seen her in this light before, it was like when an angel radiated a glow because they are so pure and thoroughly beautiful. He found himself just staring at her throughout the evening and her having to nudge him out of his thoughts, with her questioning eyes. Those eyes. The glasses were part of her beauty, those metal frames, and lenses he had always poked fun at her for, where a part of her. She was beautiful with them and without. He often had thoughts as to whether she would wear them when they eventually made love but that was something he would have to wait to find out. Dusk eventually turned into night, signifying that even this perfect day would have to come to an end at some point, but it had been unlike any other day, for today there was potential for hope and this time it wasn't just one sided.

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

They were heading back home. After dinner, They had nipped back to the cabin to pick up any left over things. Pragya was getting anxious to get back home as it was getting fairly late. She had really enjoyed her time with abhi, she felt so refreshed and alive again after so many days. The thought of leaving the cabin had made her sad, she knew they would have to return to real life and deal with everything. This was something that had been unsettling Abhi too. He had felt to rejuvenated after spending just one day with her. heading back to the city meant he would have to deal with the imminent problems that were present. He sincerely wished he and Pragya could stay up at the Cabin forever and just forget the world and its complicated problems.

The drive home so far hadn't been too bad. The ever looming sense of dread could be felt in the car, even though they had avoided talking about the reality. Prsgya decided enough was enough, they had ignored the elephant long enough. It was dark now and Abhi was driving back on the highway back into the city. He was concentrating on the road and Pragya was chewing on her finger nail staring out of the window. There were so many things swimming around her mind now, what would they tell everyone about Abhi and her. More importantly Abhi and Tanu. She continued to bite her finger nails, all of a sudden blurting out

"Ap dadi ko kya kahenge?"

(What will you tell dadi)

Abhi had been thinking of that for quite some time now. He wasn't sure really, he wanted to put off telling her anything really for as long as he could.

"Muje nahi pata, Is waqt me chaata hoon ke dadi ko kuch nahi pata chale, lekin me janta hoon shayad ye nahi ho sakta"

(I don't know. At this time I don't what dadi to know anything, but I know that may not be possible)

Abhi had both hands on the steering wheel as if he as bracing himself to go back. There wasn't just a matter of dadi. Her family, bulbul, Purab? What would they all think?

"Aur tumhare family, aur Purab bulbul?"

Pragya had thought about this. Bulbul and Purab could be allies to them, but there was also the risk they would get hurt in all of this. She explained that to Abhi who was silent for a moment.

" me Purab ko handle karunga, me sach nahi bataunga, lekin unko bataunga ke Tanu ke saath ye natak karna zaroori hai"

(Ill handle Purab, I won't tell him the truth, but ill tell him I have to act this way with Tanu)

Pragya was a little taken back. Why would he lie about it to Purab. As far as Purab could be concerned he was with Tanu now for real and not her. Her confusion was still present when she spoke without thinking

"Lekin ap jhoot kyu bolenge? Akhir vo to hona hi tha, jab hum dono..."

(But why will you lie, after all that's what was going to happen when you and I ...)

She stopped talking instantly, and abhi looked towards her. She was facing forward and didn't look at him. He could feel that wall erecting itself around her heart again from the look of hurt that etched itself back onto her previously glowing face. abhi felt sad, he didn't want to be away from her for one second, let alone have to pretend that he wanted to be with Tanu. He prayed that this would all be over soon and they could just be together, or he could put all of his time to good use and start wooing her fanatically. He was angry at the situation, angry that fate was so cruel. At this time he wanted to be following Pragya around like a lunatic trying to convince her to come back, not trying to be dealing with the aftermath of a horrific crime. He would handle this now. He wanted her to be under no illusion, at the end of all of this she would be the one to be coming home and reigning his kingdom.

"Me Purab ko sach batadunga, ke me ne decide kiya hai ke patni to sirf tum hi hongi, aur mera ghar ka raj Karne ka haq sirf tumhara hai, kuch dino ki liye Tanu ke saath Natak karna hoga aur un ke bare me jab waqt sahi honge tab kehdunga"

(I will tell Purab the truth, I have decided that you are the one that will be my wife, and only you have the right to reign over my house, it's a matter of a few days that I have to put on an act with Tanu, and when the times right ill explain to him about that)

Abhi knew Purab trusted him and would accept what he had to say, especially if he knew that it was Pragya Abhi wanted. Pragya was quiet, she didn't really know how to respond to that. He was so sure that he wanted her back, but Pragya still felt it was out of guilt for what had happened, and even more so now that Tanu was out of the picture or almost. She wanted to counteract the statement, tell him he didn't get to decide that, but he had already told her he would wait forever. He was just saying that she thought, he had got used to her like a habit and that's all this was, a habit he was finding hard to break. Abhi saw how she had gone quiet, he tried to lighten the mood

"Waise Bhi mera Bhai jaise dost, ab tumhari Bain ka pati hai, aur unko pata chale ga ke me Tanu ke saath esa Karne wala hoon to vo ek jungli Janvar ki tarah pehle Purab ko kha jayengi, aur phir mujse doond kar kha jayengi, bechare Purab, unki halat meri jaise hongi, unko nahi pata Arora ladki pati o ko kitna dorati hai unke piche"

(Anyway by brother like friend, is now your sisters husband, and if she finds out that I'm going to be doing that with Tanu, like a jungle animal she will eat Purab, find me and eat me too, poor guy he doesn't know how much these Arora women make their husbands run around after them)

He waffled on in his usual cocky style, which got Pragyas attention straight away. She turned her head in his direction and glared at him. Abhi turned his head to catch the deathly look she was giving. He couldn't help but laugh. This seemed to irk her more causing her to retaliate.

"To apka kehne ka kya matlab hai? Ap ka dost bohat kismet wale hai ke meri behen jaise patni mili, aur apko muj jaise! Jo apka bak bak hamesha sune padegi"

(What are you trying to say? Your friend is lucky to have a wife like my sister and you're lucky you got me, who listens to you harp on all the time)

She snorted at him folding her arms across her chest huffing to which he laughed further. She hit him on the arm because he wouldn't stop giggling.

"Has li jiye, hum dekhte hai Tanu apki kitni baat sunegi"

(Laugh all you want, let's see how much Tanu listens to you)

She folded her arms and with a scowl still set on her face she looked out of the window. Abhi loved how cute she was when she was angry at him. He loved winding her up, because now he would find new ways to make it up to her and he couldn't wait for it. She could fight him all she wanted, he wasn't letting go of her that easily. The rest of the journey was spent in humour and jokes. They had tried to half heartedly etch out a plan in between Pragya annoying abhi and he Re annoying her. It was quite chaotic really. Just like them.

They had finally arrived back at Pragyas house, Abhi pulled into her street and parked the car up outside her house. Pragya slowly took her bag from the floor of the car, and turned to face him. He was already looking at her, his face was sad again like it had been when they were discussing the kidnapping.

"Ap andar nahi ayenge?"

(Wont you come in)

She looked at him hopefully. She didn't know what compelled her to ask him but subconsciously she wasn't ready to let him go yet. He smiled warmly at her.

"Nahi, shayad andar a oonga to Jane ka Maan nahi honge"

(No, if I go in I won't want to leave..)

Pragyas heart fluttered again at his words. Why? She wish he would just be open about his feelings, but she was scared to know. She was about to say something when there was a frantic knocking on her window. She got the fright of her life when she saw Bulbul and Purab faces pressed against the window of the glass waving frantically at both of them. They had not been expecting them Back for another few days, the initial shock had subsided and both Abhi and Pragya got out of the car to greet them both.

"Di! Ap a gayi!! Mene apko bohat bohat miss kiya hai"

(Di! You're here! I've missed you a lot!)

She enveloped her arms around her sister and both of them stood hugging one another. Purab and Abhi had also had a similiar exchange he was confused as to why they had come back early

" tum dono to do din me and wale the, to kyu honeymoon ko cut kar diya hai"

(You two were meant to be home in a few days, why have you cut your honeymoon short?)

He motioned with his hand in a comical gesture at how they had cut their honeymoon short.

"Nahi Bhai, bulbul ko Sab ki yaad ane lagi, aur mene socha ab to har din honeymoon honge na? To kyu nahi ghar wapas aa jayenge"

(No Bhai! Bulbul was starting to miss every one, and I thought well every day is like a honey moon now so why don't we go home)

Abhi and Purab playfully exchanged with one another while bulbul and Pragya went back into the house followed by their respective husbands. Inside Sarla and Dadi were waiting eagerly. The newly weds had arrived a few hours or so before abhi and Pragya. Dadi and Sarla had half filled them in on the situation between the both of them, but made them promise not to bring the matter up until they had spoken to them about it by themselves. Bulbul had protested and even Purab had been disappointed by Abhi's actions, but after hearing that he had come over last night and taken Pragya out, the family where hopeful the two of them would reconcile. They made there way into the house and Abhi and Pragya hugged everyone upon their return. Janki had gone to get drinks for everyone as they all sat down in the living room. Sarla was sat on a table chair next to dadi, abhi and Purab were sat on the other sofa while Bulbul with her sister. Pragya had started to panic about where the conversations would soon head and she couldn't do with dealing with this now. Abhi had sensed her panic somehow and maintained dominance throughout the whole conversation, never allowing the matter to arise to the forefront of talks. Off course Abhi didn't know that more Dadi than Sarla had already handled the situation. They spoke about the honeymoon, and what they would be doing now they were back. Abhi's and Purabs talks turned to work briefly which they decided they needed to meet and discuss in detail later. Throughout the time the family had spoken mostly of idle things, and Bulbul and Purab and their new journey ahead of them now. Sarla ma had been elated that Bulbul had come home early, she had been missing her youngest child especially in this hour of need. But Sarlas heart went out for her eldest born. She had orchestrated everything so that she had Bourne the brunt of the entire saga. Still she had sat there and observed Pragya and Abhi, seeing a difference in her daughters demeanour. Within a day Pragya had seemed different, not back to her usual self but the essence of her had returned. She had not faltered all night, and the way her and Abhi interacting with another now,it was as if there was some form of an understanding perhaps? Still she would do her part and allow her daughter to be and help her unknowingly.

"To bulbul aj tum yaha a Gaye to tum dono yaha ruk jaye, tum dono shaadi ke rat pe honeymoon par chale gaye, to apki pag Phere ki rasam Bhi abhi baki hai na?"

(So bulbul if you're here you both may as well stay the night, on your wedding night you both left for your honeymoon so we didn't get to do your pag Phere ritual)

Purab and bulbul had looked at one another, and conveyed unspoken words, Purab smiled at Sarla ma and spoke

"Ha lekin pag Phere to hum ache se karenge phir kabhi, lekin hum yaha zaroor rokenge! Aur Bhai ap Bhi yaha ruk jaye!"

(Yes but the pag Phere we will do better another time, but we will definitely stay, and Bhai you should stay too)

Bulbul chuckled in victory. She loved being married to Purab, before all of there investigating and helping one another had to be on the phone or in secret meeting. Now they were husband and wife, there was never any reason to be apart. They could both stay together in the same house, no questions asked, and what was better, they could scheme away together all night and nobody would ever say anything. Her mother had filled her in on what had happened with Pragya. Initially she had been devastated for her sister, she knew Pragya was hiding something from her that day, and it was had for her to find out with the wedding so imminent. Still, she was back now and she would Do everything she could to help her Di. She looked over at her jeeju and grabbed her sisters hands in excitement

"Ha jeeju! Ap Bhi yaha rokh jaye aur di Bhi yaha hai! Kitne mazze ayenga he na?"

(Yes jeeju! You should stay too! And Di is already here. It will be so much fun)

Abhi looked over at Pragya. She had taken her hands back From bulbul and sat back on the sofa. She was trying so hard to suppress a smile causing her face to contort in a strange way. She wasn't looking at him but holding on to her dupatta in the middle where her mangalsutra lay. Her face was illustrated with expression on one hand she was annoyed! No he couldn't stay another night, she couldn't deal with having to be close like that to him. Today he had been so different with her, that almost felt like a distant memory. He was still being gentle and thoughtful but she didn't want to have to deal with her heart right now. She needed to get over him, not fall back and get involved in something again so complicated. To her dismay she couldn't ignore the fact that she wanted him to stay. It would be another stolen night she could add to her collection of memories and today's memories would be front page of that album. She came out of her thoughts when her mother spoke

"Ha beta ji, ap Bhi aj rokh jaye na"

(Yes son you stay too)

Abhi loved his mother in law. How could he ever say no to that sweet hearted woman? He always had such a fun time when he came over here and it had been ages since he had been at such ease. Dadi sat forward and took control

"Abhi beta, esa mocka bar bar nahi ate hain, rokh jaye na, Sarla ka ek sapna pura karne di jiye na, unki eecha thi ke, dono Damad ko ek saath yaha aa jaye aur vo un dono ko pagalo ki tareh khilana"

(Abhi son, you won't get a chance like this again, stay for the night and make Sarlas dream come true. She wants to have both son in laws here so she can feed them like crazy)

Dadi laughed. Sarla had always joked that she wanted to have both her son in laws at her house so that she could feed them all day long, and wait upon them like her own sons. She was a very sentimental woman. Abhi choked on his drink when he heard dadis words

"Nahi mummy ji, me already bohat kha chuka hoon, fuggy ne itna khanna mangvaya cafe me, muje lage vo India ki Salvation Army ko ek sal ka khanna daan Karne wale thi"

( no mummy ji! I've already eaten a lot. Fuggy ordered so much food at the cafe I thought we were donating food for the year for the indian Salvation Army)

Abhi nervously spoke, knowing it was no joking matter that Sarla would want him to eat. His mother in law was a wonderful person, but when it came to feeding him it went from satisfactory to torture in a small Space of time. Pragya looked up at him with the cute little scowl. Everyone roared in laughter at him taunting her. Bulbul sat back in her chair and nudged Pragya tauntingly. She looked at her little sister slightly nervous. Bulbul mischievously looked at Pragya whilst addressing Abhi.

"Jeeju me kuch nahi sune wali hoon, app ko yaha rokh na pade ga"

( jeeju I won't hear anything you have to stay)

She turned to face him and smiled

"Waist bi, Purab ne bi apko bohat miss kiya hai, to aj ki raat hum saath bethenge, baat karenge"

(After all Purab has missed you,tonight we can sit and chat)

Abhi was still looking at Pragya. She hadn't looked at him once. Even Abhi couldn't kid himself, after all he had done he was lucky they even let him past the front door step, he was never going to miss an opportunity such as this.

"Theek hai"

Everybody rejoiced at Abhi's decision. The rest of the evening was spent joyfully. They laughed, exchanged stories. Abhi was so at ease. Pragya had been less so since her return from the cabin, but even still it was an improvement on the corpse like person she had become previously. True to tradition, Dadi and Abhi engaged in a night cap of her famous cough syrup. The night had flown by and everybody was getting ready for bed. Purab and Abhi decided to go up to the terrace and catch up alone.

They both sat on the deck chairs, as he and dadi had done several times before.

"To Bhai, batao kya ho raha hai ?"

(Bhai tell me whats going on?)

Purab asked genuinely baffled and concerned. He looked at his friend, who seemed different. Purab had been so out of the loop he had felt had that he hadn't been there for his best friend in this time off need. Abhi sat back in his chair wondering where to begin. The beginning was probably best. He explained from his and Pragyas conversation about splitting up, all the way up to the point he realised she had left, bringing him up to speed about where they were now, leaving out the obvious parts of kidnapping etc. Purab wasn't as shocked as Abhi had expected. Off course Purab had already had an inkling Pragya would do something drastic.

"To Bhai ab kya?"

(So what now?)

Abhi took a sip of his drink and addressed the situation head.

"Purab abhi halat kuch aur hai, ha muje Fuggy wapas chaiye, lekin kuch cheez hai, jo me apko abhi nahi bata sakta, Fuggy ko Bhi malum hai, aur abhi hum dono ek dusre se alag rehenge"

(Purab the situation is something else at the moment, I want Fuggy back but there is something that right now I can't tell you, Pragya knows and for now as will stay seperate)

Abhi said the last part through gritted teeth remembering Tanu and the reason he couldn't take Pragya home now. Purab was confused, what was it abhi was hiding? Abhi didn't want to have to tell him about Tanu until it was absolutely necessary. He asked Purab to trust him and that in due time everything would be corrected. At this stage he and Pragya couldn't tell anyone for now, and he should respect them as they knew what they were doing. Purab reluctantly agreed, knowing he would have to exchange information with Bulbul later to get Pragya Dis side of the story. Their talks turned to work.

"Ha Purab me to batana bhool Gaya, Rishi nai muje contact kiye the, ek show ke bare me"

(I forgot to tell you, Rishi contacted me about a show)

He explained the basics of the project and what he had managed to arrange so far.

"Aur kuch aur Bhi, ye show successful honge, to vo kaha us ke baad me hum ek Naya business venture ko shuru ki ye"

(And more so if this show is successful them we will go into business together)

Abhi explained to Purab that Rishi had asked him about investing in a start up company that was essentially a record label. They would search and launch new talent found across India using a music channel that allowed people to send videos of themselves performing. The idea was still hazy but abhi had thought it would be a great opportunity for him to start winding back and focusing on his family. It would mean he wouldn't be touring all the time and he could focus on helping other artists. Purab had listened intently and was happy for abhi. He was a little taken back that as Abhi's manager, Rishi had not approached him directly to pitch this to Abhi, but he soon forgot the thought at the prospect of Abhi giving serious thought to the future of his career. The continued to chatter away some more catching up with details of Purabs honey moon that perhaps wouldn't be discussed in front of the elders

Meanwhile downstairs, Pragya and Bulbul had just finished a similar conversation. They had been sat in their old room where Pragya had been staying getting ready for bed. Pragya had just come back from the Bathroom having changed into her night wear and Bulbul was sat in front of the mirror taking off her Make up. Bulbul had thoroughly grilled Pragya. What was happening, why had she kept this from her. Pragya had pretty much explained in the same way Abhi had handled Purab. Explaining how she had plan to leave up to the point where he had taken her away today to spend some time with her. She had told her that for now she needed space from him and needed to sort through her mind and thoughts. For what it's was worth, Pragya had tried to be as honest as she could with Bulbul, but her stubborn sister wouldn't let go. They were both now strewn across the bed heads next to each other but their bodies laying in the opposite direction like they used to do.

"To di jeeju itna kuch kar rahe to ap unko maaf kyu nahi kiya abhi tak?"

(So sis, if jeeju is doings all this why haven't you forgiven him yet)

She wanted nothing more than for her sister to finally be settled and happy in her married life, and just as Her jeeju was starting to see sense it seemed her sister had plans of her own.

"Itna Assan nahi hai Bulbul, Abhi bi bohat sochne ka vaje hai"

(It's not that easy Bubul,there is a lot of things to think about)

Pragya didn't want to divulge any more information than that. She tried to reason with her little sister and explain to her that there were still some issue that needed sorting through and that she needed to be patient with the Situation. Bulbul had not relented so easily,but for now decided it would be better to speak to Purab about this. She tried to lighten the mood with her sister

"Ha, bilkul sahi kaha, ek din Hua hai, abhi Bhi waqt hai jeeju ko piche piche dorane ke"

(Yes you're absolutely right, it's been one day, there's still plenty of time to make him run around after you)

She mischievously cackled at her suggestion. And Pragya glanced sideways at her and pulled a face.

" Bulbul, tum kabhi nahi sudrongi"

(Bulbul you will never change!)

They both laughed. Pretending to play fight each other. Pragya was elated her sister had come back and even though she wished to share everything with her, she knew she could not risk Bulbul getting caught up in this web of deceit.

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It was very late now and Everyone was retiring for the evening. Sarla and Dadi had already gone to sleep earlier and were to share a room this for the night. Bulbul and Purab were in Sarlas usual room and Pragya and Abhi in the girls old room. Abhi and Purab had been making there was down from the terrace when Bulbul was creeping out Pragyas room quietly so not to make any noise. She crossed paths with Abhi and gently smiled at him, before grabbing Purabs arm and steering him towards their room for the night. Abhi looked on at them and chuckled, any normal newly wedded couple would scoot off in the dead of the night to romance one another and whisper sweet nothing's. If Abhi knew his sister in law at all, Purab was about to get the Spanish Inquisition, followed by a mahabharat of all Bulbul had deciphered. He left them to it and wandered across to Pragyas room. He was right though, Purab and Bulbul were as eager as each other to unravel what was going on, and so they got straight to it decoding all of what was said in a way to try and make sense of it all.

Abhi went into the room. Pragya was getting extra duvets and pillows out of the cupboard. Abhi was confused at first, she hadn't noticed him coming into the room and her face wore a look of indifference. He strode over to her and stood in front of where she was knelt setting up a floor bed.

"Ye tum kya kar Rehe ho?

(What are you doing?)

She looked up at him startled. She stood up as she put the last of the pillows down and addressed him

"Ap bed par so li jiye, me yaha neeche so lungi"

(You sleep on the bed I will sleep down here)

She was about to start walking to her dressing table when Abhi took her hand and stopped her.

"Kyu? Ye tumhara kamra hai, tum bed par so jao, aur me yaha neeche"

(Why? This is you're room, you sleep on the bed and ill sleep down here)

He didn't want her to sleep on the floor. Especially since he had just bombed back into her life. But Abhi was no fool, he still knew her well, and that meant she was predictable to him. With a grave look he started to kneel down and get into the floor bed. Pragya looked at him in horror

" nahi, me so lungi, apko nahi hoga, kal ap ooth ke kehenge apki kamar ka dard ho rahe he, rehenge di jiye, me yaha so lungi"

(No ill sleep here, you won't be able too, tomorrow you will wake up and say you have back pain, leave it I will sleep here)

She started to shift him out of the way with no luck off course. Abhi decided to bite a bit

"Kyu Fuggy? Me yaha kyu nahi so paunga? Muj me kya kami hai?"

(Why Fuggy? Why can't I sleep here? What's wrong with me?)

He folded his arms and quizzed her comically.

"Ap kitne bache hai! Me kehe rahi hoon, uppar so li jiye, aur apko us me bhi larai shuru ki hai"

(You're such a child! I'm telling you to sleep up there and you're fighting with me for that?)

She flailed her arms in the air and stood up in frustration. Abhi followed and stood in front of her. He was close to her, causing Pragya to loose her breath. His eyes were hooded and smouldering now, he slowly took her by the elbow and pulled her forward. She looked up at him with her big expressive eyes and gulped. He took a slow ragged breath and in a husky whisper told her

"Me yaha mehman ki tarah nahi aya hoon, meri biwi ko maane ke liye aya hoon, aur lagta hai vo mujse abhi bi bohat Naraz hai"

(I'm not here as a guest, I have come to make up with me wife and it looks like she is still very angry with me)

Pragya took a step back from him composing herself at his words and bit back.

"To? Me ne apki bhalai ki liye kaha hai, mat Soye bed pe"

(So? I said it for your own good, fine don't sleep on the bed)

With that she walked around to her side of the bed and got in. Abhi switched off the light and got back into his floor bed. He had hoped she wouldn't want him to sleep on the floor and he wouldn't allow her to, thus leaving the only option of both sleeping on the bed. But he allowed it. He was still a long way from being in the good books. Sleeping on the floor was the least he deserved. There was silences for ages and After sometime Pragya shifted on the bed so that she was led on her back. She wasn't asleep. She was worried that Abhi was sleeping on the floor, sure he had made her do it, but Pragya was not an "eye of an eye" type of person. She turned to face his side of the room, though she couldn't see him she called out.

"Suniye..."

Abhi was also evading sleep. It was torturous being this far away from her in such a small room. The floor was also so uncomfortable, be couldn't believe how he had made her sleep on it everyday. If he was honest he didn't recognise that person anymore, he was lost in thought when he heard her call to him.

"Fuggy..."

He answered back questioningly. She hesitated at first then continued on

"Dekhiye ap ko vaha uncomfortable lag raha hai, to ap upar a jaye aur me vaha neeche so jaoungi"

(Look if you are uncomfortable there come up here and ill sleep on the floor)

Abhi smiled at her concern. She really was a diamond. And he really was a fool. Still a fool he maybe, but a he was a Rockstar fool with flare at that.

"Fuggy me upar a jao, to ap ko yaha neeche ane ki kya zaroorat hai? Waist Bhi hum pehle Bhi ek bed share kar ke Soye hai na?"

(Fuggy if i come up there then what is the need for you to come down here? After all we have shared a bed to sleep before, right?

Pragya was quiet for a moment and assessed the situation and thought on what to do. She didn't mind him sleeping on the same bed, she just needed some boundaries,

She sat up in bed and started arranging two pillows in the middle. She looked over at him quietly she said

" theek hai, ap uppar a jaye"

(Fine, come up here)

Abhi's heart did a somersault he could hear her shuffling about on the bed. He thought he had misheard at first, and then he realised she had agreed for him to share with her.

Cautiously he stood up and got on to the bed. It was dark again apart from the moonlight and street light shining into the room from the open window. He could make out her slight frame shifting to lay back down on the bed. Next to her he saw his one arch nemesis. Great, he thought that damn pillow wall! He positioned himself so that he was facing her, and she was sleeping with her back to him. They both exchanged a quiet goodnight. Pragya was exhausted from her day. Scaling the side of the hill and then dealing with her family had taken all her energy. These days, it took her hours to fall asleep, but tonight before she knew it she had drifted off somewhat peacefully to sleep.

--

Her surroundings were strange, she stood in a grand front hall, it looked like a mansion but somehow it was cold dark, almost dead. The walls were covered in blackened ivy of some sorts. Like nature had over run this once beautiful place. They were all stood there, blaming her, pointing the finger. "Mother" she's thinking, not you too. They're all shouting at her. "you let him die" Their words are suffocating and painful. "he doesn't love you" She doesn't know why they are saying that."you're not good enough" She doesn't know how to respond, she's stood confused quietly taking their jibes and taunts. She needs to get away, she can't stay here. She needs to find him. Where is he? Her breath is hitching she walks backwards slowly. She needs to think, she can't hear, please stop shouting, Please! Her hands come up to her ears, desperately trying to drown the sound of them shouting at her. She closes her eyes , the rooms starts to spin, she's crying out but no body is listening then FLASH. She was running. She couldn't see, it was dark and her sandals were torn, she had a cut across her stomach. "The Pain" she thought as she continued to run. It was a forest or a dark wood filled with vegetation and trees that morphed into scary figures. "What's going on, where is he?" She continues to run not knowing where she is going. The figures around her are closing in, they're terrifying her. She doesn't know where to go, she continues to run as fast as her body will take her, it's hurting her to do it but she can feel the fear and adrenaline coursing through her entire body. The tears are cascading down her face, the overwhelming sensation of fear and dread envelop her. If she doesn't outrun the darkness it will drown her. Shes gasping panting for air. She is badly hurt but still she carries on running. Suddenly she finds herself coming up to a door. Relief washes over her as she runs faster to reach an escape. Her Hands stretch forward as her body lunges forward to grab the handle. She's trying to open the door, it won't budge, she glances behind her the eerie figures are coming in fast, she's desperately trying to get into the room. Panic has already set in, perspiration evaporating off her form and sheer terror and panic filling every fibre of her body,They're about to close in on her, their faces obscure and terrifying. she's going to die and become engulfed in the darkness. This is it shes thinking, this is my end. The door opens. She frantically goes inside closing it firm behind her. Where am I? She looks around she's stood on a cliff it's still dark if she steps forward anymore she will fall into the black fog and smokiness that spreading beneath. She turns back around and sees Him he is stood in front of her. Her heart leeps. "its going go be okay" she thinks and reaches out her hand to touch him. He looks at her with his sad and pained. She's confused. Why is he sad. He speaks to her, tells her he is sorry. He then turns around and steps to the side. There is someone else. No! What is she doing here, what is that she is holding? Fear starts to envelop again. No not again, I can't save him again. She holds it up and cackles in her witch like manner. She says something but she can't hear. The blood is rushing around her body and her heart is pounding, she can't loose him again. Before she can react, she hears a shot and sees him turn to her as he gets hit. His body falls limp and his eyes die in front of her. She stops breathing and her heart freezes. Without a thought She grabs his hand as they both fall into the dark smoky depth. . .

Pragya bolted upright. She was still dreaming even though her eyes were open. In the first instant, all she could see were the eerie trees and smoke that were trying to suffocate her. She could now feel the cold sweat on her brown and her breathing was frantic. She was crying fiercely as if deeply traumatised and frightened. She felt so confused. They were still here, those figures, she frantically kicked her legs in attempt to move back and get away from them. In the next moment she felt herself being pulled away from it all and sensation of warmth and protection plants itself around her. It closes around her like a cocoon, shrill cries still racking her body and the inability to even breath properly making her gasp in terror. The next thing she can smell him. He is here with her. She wakes up out of her day-mare and pulls away. Abhi is here. Still confused she grabs his face to touch him and make sure he is real. She was. still crying but her breathing had eased now, but she was still frantic though. In reflex she quickly looked and reached down at Abhi's abdomen and pulled up his T-Shirt, and traced her hand against the bandaging around his gun shot wound. Slowly everything started to come back to her. She lunged forward pushing her body in full force into him and wrapped her arms around his neck and cried into the crook of his neck in relief. She is was so grateful he was there with her right now. In the same second Abhi wound his arms straight back around her resting the span of his palm on the back of her head. Hushing her and desperately trying to calm her down by holding her close to him.

"Fuggy ootho! Vo bura sapna hai, kuch nahi Hua hai, Fuggy!"

(Fuggy wake up, it's a bad dream everything's fine!)

She was still confused. In the end instinctively he pulled her into his chest and locked her there. He cradled her head into his neck and held her tighter than he should have done. She was shaking like a leaf and struggling to breath as if having an anxiety attack. He needed her to wake up. Very soon she had, still dazed she started checking his gun shot wound. In that instant He knew exactly what she had dreamt of. She lunged back forward still crying and hugged him. He reciprocated instantly holding her close.

They sat like that for some time, and Abhi tenderly rubbed circles into her back, and had his fingers weaved into her hair. One of her arms was clung to the shirt by his neck while the other was brought right the way around his neck, which housed her face hidden away there in the crook. Her sobs had subsided now and her breathing had gone back to normal, she was still sniffling. Abhi's heart was frantic, first and foremost he needed her to calm down and make her realise it was just a dream. He could never have imagined the impact this whole ordeal had had on Pragya mentally. She was the strongest person in the world, she had always had a flare and was never scared at any point in the days he had misunderstood her. It was as if nothing phased her, she was street wise and could take care of herself. But he saw her in a completely different light tonight. She was a vulnerable girl who was terrified by her nightmares. It must have been horrific if someone as strong hearted as his Fuggy had been so fearful of it. He had never known anybody with post traumatic stress disorder, so all of this had come as quite a shock for her. After some time he spoke to her.

"tum theek ho na? Kya dekha tumne? Batao muje?"

(Are you okay? What did you see, tell me?)

The moments after Pragya had completely woken up. She was relieved to find Abhi there with her. There had been so many times when she had experienced the same nightmare just in different forms, they always felt so real and soul shakingly terrifying. When she had woken up and she had to convince herself he was okay. When ever she did wake up she was always so confused and tortured that wasn't always an easy task. Sometimes she even had to stop herself calling him just to check he was there and okay. It was just easier to not fall asleep, so in the time she was apart from him the two options had always been stay awake and think about him, at least that was something she could control. Or fall asleep and loose herself in something that feels so real it's hard to tell what is and what is not. But tonight it was okay he was there with her. She stayed there in his arms safely tucked away, for as long as he was happy to have her there. She didn't want to move away. She felt at home and safe here and she didn't want to talk about anything.

He had sensed her unwillingness to talk. The last thing he wanted to do was upset her or push her. Whatever it was it had to do with the kidnapping and he sensed the gunshot after seeing her actions when she woke up. He wanted to comfort her like she had always tried with him.

"Vo sapna tha Fuggy, ab tum bilkul safe ho, me apko kuch nahi hone dunga, aur...me Bhi bilkul theek hoon"

(It was a dream Fuggy, you are safe now, I won't let anything happen to you and I'm perfectly fine too)

He continued to sooth her, rubbing her back and infrequently touching his lips on the top of her head. She was still clutching his shirt. The smell of him was filling her with relief, reassuring her he was still there safe with her. She didn't want to appear weak, or to affected by this, it wasn't his place to worry for her anymore, besides the dream hadn't been about her dying, it was about loosing him in a more final and sincere way. She kept her head nestled into his neck but turned slightly so she could speak.

"Me janti hoon, kuch nahi hai, kabhi kabhi bure sapne ate hai me theek hoon"

(I know, it's nothing, sometimes bad dreams happen, I'm fine)

His heart bled for her, and subconsciously wrapped his arms around her tighter when he heard her words. He didn't want her to close up and feel like she had to deal with this alone. Indirectly this was all his fault. He had put her in harms way and even now she was trying to do everything by herself. Including facing this. He desperately wanted to do something for her, to help her get over this, make her realise the storm was about to pass, they would be together. All he wanted to do was protect her. Care for her, love her and be together always. They sat there for sometime, and after a while He lightened the subject and starting talking to her about nonsense. If she didn't want to talk about it that was fine, but he wouldn't let her think about it either. He shuffled back with her still in tact and arranged the pillows with one arms so that he was comfortably led back with pragya nestled into him. He made up an animated story about a boy and a girl who got married under false pretences, all their dramas and adventures some made up others based on true events, but light hearted all the same.. He was in the middle of his story when he felt her yawn against his chest. He glanced down at her, eyes droopy, desperately trying to stay awake.

" chalo hum ko sone chaiye, bohat der hogaye hai"

(Come we should sleep, it's very late)

She slowly pulled away from him, confusing him and leaving him feeling somewhat empty.

"Kaha ja Rehe ho?"

(Where are you going?)

He asked her confused as she sat up on the bed.

"I'm sorry, me ne apko abhi tak sone nahi diye, ap so jaye, muje ab neend nahi ayenge"

(I'm sorry I have kept you awake this long, you go to sleep I won't sleep now)

He looked at her and felt overwhelmingly sad for her. He knew she was exhausted. Hazarding a guess, and correctly assuming that she was scared of falling asleep, He smiled at her.

"Fuggy abhi to sirf teen baje hai, ap abhi se ooth kar kya karo gi? So jaye, me hoon na, me apko kuch nahi hone doonga"

(Fuggy it's only 3 o clock, what will you do waking up this early? Go sleep I'm here I won't let anything happen)

Pragya appreciated his concern, but even he couldn't stop her having nightmares. But Abhi believed differently, dare her mind torture her when she would be asleep wrapped in his arms. He gently took her hand and pulled her back on to him. He coaxed her head back on to his chest and rested it so that her ear was pressed to his heart. The moment her head was laid on his chest, she stared to feel sleepy. She was apprehensive at first but if she was honest, she was tired, craving so desperately for a good nights sleep. At least if she could hear his heart beat she could rest easy. There it was strong, fast and steady. He cuddled his arms around her again and shuffled down so that they were led down now. She unknowingly draped one leg across his, causing a fresh wave of butterflies to float across his tummy. He hugged her tighter and rested his head on top of hers. After sometime he felt her breathing ease signalling she had fallen asleep. Now that she was, he kissed her forehead, and stroked the side of her head and cheek. He was so ashamed and sad at his and his previous actions towards her. Somewhere though he was glad that he was finally here with her. He knew he could be the balm to her turmoil, she just needed to give him a chance. Eventually he drifted off too, holding her there protectively against him.

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

The next day Abhi and Pragya had woken up. He had tried to talk to her about her nightmares but as usual she had closed up again. They had exchanged few words in the time that they had woken up mostly small talk and idle chatter, and soon joined the rest of the family for breakfast. To Abhi's delight She had taken care to prepare his favourite cinnamon coffee. He loved the way dadi made it, but it had been something else drinking coffee made by his wife again. Purab and Bulbul would be returning home and Abhi needed to get back Home and start sorting out this kidnapping chaos once and for all. After they had eaten, he had offered to take Pragya and drop her off at the college. In that time he had explained to her what he had hoped to achieve in the day. The plan was to fine tooth comb all of the finances and trace where the 50 lakhs had come from so it could be used as evidence. She had advised him to contact the commissioner and arrange a meeting to discuss all the facts. They would need the help of the police if they were ever to collect sufficient evidence to build a case against the corporator. Abhi had been worried about Aliyah, after all she was still his sister which confused and clouded Abhi's thought and judgement.

After dropping Pragya off at the college, he made his way back home. It had been nearly two days since he had been home. He had briefly told dadi where he was yesterday in the evening but he knew he would face a thorough grilling when he got home. He drove up along the drive way and got out of his car. His house felt so different. Like a prison full of vultures, but his dadi was still in there and he had to go back for her. He walked up to the front door and went in. He made his way into the front hall, where he saw dadi and both daasis sat on the sofas. He walked up to them all to greet them.

Dadi stood up as soon as she saw her grandson and started to walk over to him in order to envelop him in a big hug. She noticed the sparkle back in his eyes and his face looked fresh and youthful again. She secretly rejoiced at the thought of Pragya. He had been gone for two days so some progress may have occurred she thought.

"Kaise ho beta?"

(How ar you soon)

Abhi pulled away from his grandmas hug and smiled warmly at her

"Theek hoon dadi"

(I'm good dadi)

Both daasis stood up and greeted him in. Indu Daasi sat back down and spoke

"Sub theek se Hua ne?"

(Did everything go well?)

Abhi looked at her slightly confused. He looked at dadi who nodded at him as of to say nod and agree. Daasi spoke again

"Arre apke meeting hui, Didi ne hamne bataye tha, iss liye tum 2 dino se ghar se gayab ho"

(Your meeting, did told me, that's why you have been away from home for 2 days)

Abhi sighed in relief and smiled at her. Dadi had not disclosed to anyone about his whereabouts. He didn't want the whole family involved in his fight for Pragya.

"Ha sab ache Gaye the, dadi kya ap mere liye coffee banayenge?"

(Yes everything was fine, dadi will you make me some coffee)

Dadi took him by the arm, thanking god her grandson had granted her the opportunity to take him aside and question him about what had happened. If anything she was excited, though she had updates from her spies over at the Arora headquarters she wanted to hear everything from Abhi. As she led him off in the direction of the kitchen,

"Chal tu mere saath, me tere liye coffee banati hoon"

(You come with me, I will make you coffee)

Abhi allowed his grandma to lead him over to the kitchen. There he sat down on the table while dadi pottered around putting the water on the stove with his coffee to brew. Once she had set it on, she walked back over to the table where abhi was resting his chin on clasped hands, elbows resting on the table and sat down in front of him. She smiled at him eagerly and asked,

"To batao beta, mere bahu ke saath kya Hua?"

(So tell me, what happened with my Bahu?)

She questioned him excitingly. Last night before Abhi had retired to bed he had called his grandma to inform her on what was going on. He told her that Sarla ma had allowed him to see Pragya and on that day he had taken her out. The phone call had been quick, but dadi told him she wanted to know everything upon his return, unknown to Abhi dadi already knew that he had gone to the Aroras. He looked at her, hoping he wasn't going to dash her hopes and that he really could bring Fuggy back home. He looked at dadi and smiled.

"Bohat kuch dadi, Sarla ma aur dadi ne muje assani se andar ane diye, ha vo naraz Te, lekin vo muje Fuggy se Milne diye te, aur phir kal hum saath me Nashte kiya hai, aur baad mei, hum dono cabin par Gaye Te"

(So much dadi! Sarla ma and dadi let me in easily, yes they were very angry, but they let me meet Fuggy, and yesterday we all had breakfast and after I took Fuggy to the cabin)

He went on to tell her about his time at the cabin and how they had walked and talked things out. Off course he did not tell dadi everything. The horrors they were trying to work through and fix. But he told dadi all the wonderful moments he had experienced with her that day. Dadi listened to her grandson talk with animation about his day with Pragya. His face had dropped though when he told her about Pragya diagnosis with the doctor, she had felt sad that Pragya had kept that from her, knowing full well it would be so that she did not worry. But even still her heart went out for her. Abhi soon came out of his reverie, when he had told dadi how they had slept in each others arms, and shied at the fact he was actually telling dadi this! She looked on at him and her heart beamed for him, for he was trying to make amends and she prayed to god with all her heart he was successful, because Pragya belonged to Abhi and he belonged to her.

"Ye bohat Achi baat hai beta, me bohat kush hoon, me ne Sarla ji se kaha tha ke mera potha kuch kam nahi hai"

(That's great news, I'm very happy, I told Sarla that my grandson was no less)

She raised her fist as in victory with a stern proud look on her face. She was very happy, though there was still along way to go, she was happy some progress had been made. Abhi looked at her in question

"Kya? Dadi ap janti thi me vaha tha?"

(What? Dadi did you know I was there)

Dadi looked at him sheepishly but then grinned.

"Dekho beta me Bhi apki dadi hoon, aur Muje jo karna tha vo kar diya, me ne Sarla aur Pragya ki dadi se baat ki thi, muje paatha tha ke tum vaha jaonge, jab tumhari galati ko ehsas ho, aur tumne muje sharminda nahi kiya hai beta"

(Look son I am your grandma, and I did what I had to, I talked to her family, I knew you would go there when you realised your mistake. And you haven't shamed me son)

She got up and kissed him on the head. She continued to explain that she had called Sarla ma assuring her abhi would come around and that she had faith in her grandson. She promised that she would make abhi see the error of his ways if he didn't himself, but to her joy he had not let her down. Abhi rejoiced, hiss grandma was legendary, she had always looked out for him and his best interests and to her. Evety credit, she had knowingly chosen a wife that would always look after him too. but he looked at her slightly disheartened.

"Lekin dadi vo abhi Bhi maana hai us ko, vo yaha ane ke liye nahi razzi hai"

(But dad I still have to win her around, she's not willing to come back here)

Dadi nodded at him in support and rubbed his back.

"Koi bat nahi beta aj nahi to kal man jaye gi, ap ko sirf koshish karni hai, phir Sab kuch Baghwan par chod di jiye"

(It doesn't matter, if not today then tomorrow she will come around, you just have to try, leave the rest up to god)

She winked at him stood up and started straining his coffee. He looked at his dadi and smiled in happiness. But soon the happiness faded away, for there was another woman that still needed to be dealt with. Tanu. He didn't want dadi to be ashamed of him, and so he decided not to tell her anything, he was anxious and determined as ever now to resolve this kidnapping issue. So he could get his life back together and bring home the queen of his castle.

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

Aliyah Mehra was a woman possessed. It had been two days since her encounter with the corporator and she was still no closer to getting the one crore rupees she needed to pay him off. As a last result she had gotten together everything she disliked enough to part with; jewellery, clothes shoes any fineries she no longer needed and tried her hand at selling them. So she found herself wondering out of the back street pawn shop. It was the afternoon and the main high street was extremely busy, but Aliyah had found this quiet little establishment on the internet. The dealt with a quick sale and cash which was most important. She left the shop with her shades in tact and head covered with a fashionable silk scarf as an attempt to conceal her. She headed back across the narrow street to her car and got in. As she sat in her car she opened up her large Birkin bag stared at the money inside. After off loading a suit case of designer clothes bags and shoes and a vanity case full of jewellery she had managed to muster forty Lakh rupees, teamed with her ten she already had she was still fifty short.Off course the jewels she decided to sell had yielded her the most money. But Aliyah was frustrated. She closed the bag forcefully and slammed her palm on the steering wheel. She still had not heard from Tanu, and Aliyah was starting to become paranoid at this. She huffed as she sat there thinking out loud

"Kya karu me?? Muje Bhai ke pas Jana pade ga, but I can't do that! Unko pata chal Gaya to aur garbar ho jaye ga"

(What shall I do? I'm going to have to go to my brother, but I can't do that, if he finds out then it will be worse)

She thought hard about what to do. If she was going to ask her brother she needed a convincing reason. She pulled out her phone from her bag and dialled a number. Right now she needed time, and she had an idea how she would get it. She put the phone against here ear and waited for her recipient to pick up

"Hello Aliyah Ji, lagta hai apko pese ki intazam kar di"

(Hello Aliyahji, looks like you've arranged the money)

Aliyah rolled her eyes. She hated the corporator, in another life and universe they would have been perfect for each other. But not in this one.

"Shut up aur suno tum meri baat"

(Shut up and listen to me)

She looked around her car whilst sat still parked down the side street, took a deep breath. She needed to be fierce and convincing.

"Abhi muje Adhe paise ki baki hai, muje aur waqt lage ga"

The corporator started to pipe up down the phone

"Oh Rovkstar ki behen, ye koi khel nahi hai, aur waqt ka luxury hai tumhare pas, panch din diye the, aur uska do to khatam ho chuka hai -"

Aliyah was annoyed. Who did he think he was

"Dekho yeh Mazak nahi hai, muje aur waqt chaiye, aur tumhare pas kuch aur raste nahi hai. itne paise ka intazam Karne ka time lagta hai, aur hum dono jante hai ke ap bina pakad ke police ko mere Naam nahi dene wale hai, uske pehle to nahi to ek kam ki jiye, yeh pachas lakh hai yeh tum lene ko a jaye aur na pakad ne ki koshish karte rehe jiye, aur baki paise me ek Hafte me doond ke deti hoon"

(Look this is no joke, I need more time, and you don't have any other options. it takes time to arrange that money and we both know you won't take my name unless you are caught and not before that, so do me a favour come and get this fifty lakhs and keep trying to stay un caught and ill find the rest of the money in the next week and give it you)

The corporator was silent for a moment. Aliyah knew he had no choice. She was his only route out, with any luck he would take his chances with the fifty and leave, but Aliyah knew that wouldn't be. She tapped her steering wheel waiting for him to answer.

"Theek hai, lekin yaad rakhna me neeche Jane wale hoon, to me akele bilkul nahi jaunga, tum ko mere saath ana padega"

(Fine, but remember if I go down Im definitely not going alone, you will have to come with me)

Aliyah kissed her teeth in disgust. She hoped she would not need a week to get this vulture out of her life, but she couldn't shake off this overwhelming sense of dread that kept firing up in her belly. She needed to speak to Tanu. After her blatantly lying to her she didn't trust her but this wasn't for Tanu, she was doing this for herself. She slammed the phone down and drove off. She needed to get her hands on this money and successfully managed to buy herself some more time. For now that was her focus, once the Corporator was gone she would deal with Tanu, but not before.

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

Abhi was sat in his recording studio come Study. He had been sifting through all of his bank statements, credit card bills and transactions for The families, his business everything. He had been in touch with his accountant trying to work out where the fifty Lakhs had come from. So far his accountant had come up with nothing. The only odd transaction was Aliyah withdrawing her full ten lakh float from her bank account, but abhi knew this was a futile effort to get together the money she need to buy off the corporator. It had been several hours now and he had been in contact with the bank to see if they could find any CCTV footage, but due to him not having any legal authority the bank had refused him. He sat behind his large wooden desk with his laptop open in front of him. He sat back in his leather chair and rubbed the bridge of his nose. If Aliyah didn't send that money then there was a good chance it was Tanu. After all she had said that night that she had paid him money to kill Pragya. Abhi decided he needed to Talk to Tanu, Pragya had been right it was imperative for him to keep a close eye on her. The very thought of it made him feel sick, but he knew there was nothing he could do. He leaned forward and grabbed his phone from the side. He pulled up Tanus number in an effort to speak to her, but put his phone down after reconsidering. There had to be another way he thought. He stood up and went across to the flip chart that was stationed across the study. he used it sometimes when he was brainstorming with his band mates. He ripped off a sheet of paper, grabbed a marker and walked back over to his desk. He started to brainstorm. Writing down everything he could think off to expose this lie. He sat there for a couple of more hours working away trying to come up with routes of collecting sufficient evidence from Tanu.

Eventually it was late and Abhi wandered out of his study happy with the progress he had made. Tomorrow he would speak to Pragya about the next stage in the plan, but for now it was late and he was tired. He made his way across the front hall and climbed the stairs with his head bowed in exhaustion. As he walked up the stairs he collided and came face to face with Tanu. He looked at her shocked. She was the last person her expected to see here now. It was hard for him not to grab her now and drag her to the police station but he regained control, he knew it was important for her not to be suspicious. She was coming from upstairs, she must have been here to see Aliyah.

"Tum yaha kya kar Rehe ho Tanu bohat der hui hai?"

(What are you doing here Tanu it is late)

She looked at him doe eyed and pearly. Abhi guessed what she and Aliyah would be discussing

"Me yaha Aliyah se Milne ayi thi, aur baad me ap se lekin ap kamre me nahi the, kaise hai app, bohat dino se me ne ap ko nahi dekha, and I'm sorry me ne apki saath zid ki thi"

(I came here to see Aliyah and afterwar you but you weren't in your room, how are you, it's been so long since I've seen you, I'm sorry I was stubborn with you)

With that she flung her hands around Abhi. He had to compose himself because today he was seeing Tanu in a completely different light. It was the first time he had seen her since the whole revelation and he did not realise how quickly his feelings towards her could change. He tried to keep himself composed and tried his best to hold a normal conversation with her.

"Ha me thoda busy tha, ek kam ki jiye, kal hum dono coffee pee ne ko chalenge theek hai Humare bare me saab discuss kar lenge Ab me bohat thake hue hu?"

(Yes I've been busy, I tell you what tomorrow we will go for coffee and discuss everything, I'm really tired now)

Tanu was shocked she was half expecting a battle with him. She had come to make amends with Aliyah, she knew that if she didn't keep her sweet, one word from her mouth and Abhi would refuse to have her adding to the fact that she would go to jail. She straightened herself up and rested her hand on Abhi's shoulder.

" Theek hai, me kal phone karungi, phir hum baat karenge"

(Fine, ill call tomorrow then we will talk)

She leaned into him and planted a kiss on his cheek. Abhi clenched his fist at his side as she did and tried to force a smile when she stood and looked at him. With that she turned around and skipped down the stairs towards the hallway.

Abhi stood seething for a second. He turned around and continued to his room. He wandered upstairs thinking about everything and entered his room. It still felt so quiet and empty, it completely lacked the womanly touch that Pragya brought to it. Abhi felt hopeful though, he knew he would win her back, his thoughts turned to his wife, and the time he had spent with her. The memories brought a smile to his face. He looked at his phone and dialled her number, jumped on the bed and lay back waiting for her to answer.

Pragya had been finishing up in the kitchen. Her mum and dadi had already gone to sleep and she wondered into her room getting herself ready to sleep. She had felt apprehensive about the night and wondered whether tonight she would manage to sleep at all. She had changed into her night clothes and climbed into bed when she heard her phone buzzing. She looked at the screen and saw Abhi was calling her. She felt butterflies awaken in her stomach again, before she realised it she answered the phone and held it to her ear and answered

"Hello..."

"Itni jaldi tumne phone answer kiya hai, muje miss kar Rehe thi Kya?

(You answered so quickly, were you missing me?)

Pragya composed herself and tried not to smile. She was happy he had called her, but tried to act indifferent.

"Nahi to... Mera phone haat me the,is liye, itni raat ko kyu phone kiya?"

(No! My phone was in my hand , why are you ringing so late?)

Abhi chuckled on the other side of the phone.

"Kya me meri biwi se itni raat pe baat nahi karsakta?"

(Why can't I speak to my wife this late at night?)

Pragya blushed. She knew he couldn't see her but the way he was being with her was making it so much more difficult to resist him. She didn't respond to him though she was still smiling...

"Waise Bhi, mene is liye phone kiya hai.. Tum theek ho na? Sone ka waqt agaya hai, shayad tum...

(Anyways I just phoned because... Are you okay? It's time for bed and I thought maybe..)

Abhi's voice was cautious, but Pragyas heart lept up high. He called her because he was worried about her! She couldn't help but feel elated. She didn't want him to worry, but couldn't help enjoying the fact that he was

"Ha me theek hoon, bas kittab ko parne wali thi, shayad usko dekhne se ache sapne a jaye..."

(I am fine, I'm just about to read a book, perhaps after reading I will have nice dreams)

"Ofo Fuggy, us se kya hoga? Kitabbo logo se bure sapne dete hai"

(Oh god Fuggy what will that do, books give people nightmares)

Pragya huffed at him.

"Ap ka scary picture se to ache hai na?"

(It's better than your scary film)

Abhi continued to nok jhok with her, he loved hearing her voice and he felt so happy that he had made even this much of a break through with her. After some time of talking, talks turned back to her fear of sleeping. Abhi knew though she had joked with him it was a serious issue and he wished he could be there with her now.

"Dekho Fuggy, tum ko meri zaroorat ho, tum ko bura sapne a jaye, to please please muje phone ki jiye, raat me jab chaiye muje phone karna, promise?"

(Look Fuggy, if you need me, if you have a bad dream then please phone me whenever you need to in the night, call me, promise?)

Pragya hesitantly answered

"Ha, me karungi, lekin ap please tension mat li jiye me theek hoon"

(Yes I will, but please don't be worried I am fine)

Abh felt a little more relieved, he didn't want her to be alone and scared, he promised himself if she woke up and called him he would drive straight over to her but for now he was content with chatting to her on the phone. Pragya felt the same, it had been an entire day since she had spoken to him and dare she feel it but she missed him. A lot. She settled in to her bed and led down as Abhi already had done so, and both talked nonsensical things late into the night...