FF: A Second Chance at Happiness updated page 10 - Page 3

After their last meeting, Dutta rarely came to see Kaka Babu. However, he personally looked into Naku and Sethji's security. Kaka Babu allowed Dutta to place one of his own men to keep an eye on Naku at all times from a distance. At the same time, he pressured all his men and allies to find Vikrant. Madhu and Aayi Saheb offered to help by regularly visiting Naku. Aayi Saheb would often cook for Naku and tried her best to get Naku to finish her meal. Madhu and Aayi made a conscious effort not to bring up Dutta in any way. Madhu wanted Naku to see her as friend rather than Dutta's sister, and Aayi Saheb tried her level best to minimize Babi's absence. Kishore took the responsibility of trying to help with Sethji's health. He would invest a lot of time talking to doctors about Sethji's case and see if there were any new avenues to explore. Dutta kept track of Naku and Sethji's condition through Madhu, Kishore, and Aayi Saheb; though, he wished that he could physically be there to comfort and Naku. Even better, he wished he could keep her in his sight at all times.

Dutta was taking care of some work when Raju, the guard he appointed to look after Naku, called him on his cell.

Dutta: Yes Raju?

Raju: Bhao, someone just tried to attack, Naku ma'm

Dutta didn't let Raju talk any further and stormed out of his house. He disregarded all the traffic rules and raced to the outhouse. When he arrived, he saw Baji talking to Raju.

Dutta: Baji, where is Naku? Is she okay?

Baji: Bhao relax, she's fine.

Dutta: What happened?

Baji: Naku was in the house, when someone threw a fire-lit bottle into the house. However, she reacted immediately blew out the fire. We were unable to catch the culprit. Whoever it was, he was probably trying to send a message. He did not intend on doing any harm.

Dutta [looking at Raju]: Where were you? Did I not tell you to keep an eye on her?

Dutta was about to attack Raju, but Baji stopped him.

Baji: It's not his fault. I told him to take a break. I did not expect someone to get in through Kaka Babu's security. Anyways, we should go inside. Kaka Babu wanted to speak to you anyways.

When they entered the house, they found Naku fiercely arguing with Kaka Babu and Ali Mamu

Naku: No way am I going to that house…Sethji and are fine here

Kaka Babu: After today's incident, it is clear that someone from the inside might be working with Vikrant. I do not want to take any chances with you or Sethji.

By then, everyone took notice of Dutta's presence.

Kaka Babu: Thank god you are here. I needed a favor from you.

Dutta: What is it?

Ali Mamu: We suspect that someone from our organization is working with Vikrant. There is no other way someone could have attacked Naku like that. That's why both of us feel that Naku and Sethji should be shifted elsewhere until the mole is found…we were hoping if they can live at Patil residence

Dutta: You don't have to ask…I'll make the arrangements right now.

Naku: Absolutely not! I am not going into that house. I can't leave my work and responsibilities.

Dutta: You can continue to do your work from Patil residence. No one will attempt to govern your life. I can guarantee that.

Ali Mamu: Naku, right now yours and Sethji's safety is more important. It'll be harder for Vikrant's spy to keep an eye on you if you're living at Patil residence. Besides us, Patil residence is the only area where you can get tight security. As Dutta said, you can continue with your life there. Just think about your brother before giving an answer.

Naku: Fine, but let me make this clear. I am going to continue working. I am not going to explain myself to anyone. Most importantly, this is arrangement is temporary.

Dutta [with a smirk]: Deal. Go pack your things.

Naku: You're already ordering me around!

Dutta [puts his hands up in surrender]: Sorry…old habits die hard

Dutta notified Aayi Saheb that Naku and Sethji will be temporary living at their place. In return, she suggested that Kaya and Baji also move in with them as well to help Naku with the transition. Baji and Kaya agreed without any hesitation. By the time Naku reached Patil residence with her brother, Dutta had everything prepared for them. He had already appointed a nurse to look after Sethji and made sure that Naku's room was right across from Sethji's room and settled Kaya and Baji down the hall. He had two guards guarding that whole corridor. Before their arrival, Dutta made it clear to his whole family that no one is to misbehave with them nor try to interfere in their matters.

After setting up everything in Sethji's room, Naku went out to the garden and sat on the swing she was always fond of. She continued to stare at the sky and let her mind wander off in another world. She came out of her trance when Aayi Saheb approached her with a dinner plate.

Aayi: Can I join you?

Nakusha [shifting over]: Sure

Aayi: I bought dinner for you. I figured you would enjoy eating out here.

Aayi lifted a morsel of food to feed Naku. For a moment, Naku struggled to hold back the tears, and Aayi Saheb sensed this immediately.

Aayi: You know, we have a new cook, and she makes excellent pakoras. You must try them once…

For the next couple minutes, Aayi continued to ramble on nonsense to keep Naku's mind occupied while she fed her. Naku didn't resist Aayi's attempts to feed. She just wished she could tell Naku that she was sent by Dutta.

[flashback]

Dutta: Aayi…I'm sure Naku hasn't eaten anything all day. She hasn't been taking care of herself. I prepared a plate for her, and I was hoping you could feed this to her yourself. I know show won't come to the dinner table while I am there.

After finishing the meal, Aayi Saheb suggested that they go to sleep.

Aayi: You've had a long day and I can see that you are exhausted. Why don't you let me put you to sleep today.

Naku once again did not reject this offer. She gladly put her head in Aayi Saheb's lap, while Aayi caressed her head until she fell asleep. Once Aayi Saheb was sure that Naku was sleeping peacefully, she gently placed her head on the pillow and stepped out of the room, where she noticed her son staring at his wife.

Aayi: Relax, Dutta…she's fine. I just put her to sleep.

Dutta: I know Aayi. I just wished, it was me that was taking care of her.

Aayi: Give it time. Maybe one day she will let you in.

After much insistence, Dutta agreed to retire to his room. It took him a while to fall asleep, but soon after his eyes gave in, he heard screams coming from downstairs. He immediately grabbed his gun and rushed downstairs, where he saw the whole family gathered in front of Naku's room.

Dutta: What's going on…what happened to her…

Dutta was about to barge into Naku's room but Baji stopped him and gently pulled him away from the door.

Baji: Relax Bhao. She was having a nightmare. Kaya is taking care of it.

The screams had died down and in a matter of time the whole house was filled with silence. Everybody's attention was caught when Kaya stepped out of the room.

Kaya: She's fine now. I just put her back to sleep.

Madhu: Does she have these nightmares often?

Kaya: Almost every night. Sometimes they are mild and she wakes up from them and ends up staying awake the whole night. Then there are times, when she is screaming and crying in her sleep and we need to calm her down. The doctors suggested that she take sleeping pills, but she doesn't want to. It's hard for her to get a good night's sleep.

Madhu: Why doesn't everyone go back to sleep. I'll stay with her tonight just to make sure she is okay.

Madhu gave her brother a nod of assurance and he gently placed his hand on her head as if blessing her.

The next morning after getting ready, Dutta immediately went to check on Naku and Sethji. He first inquired about Sethji's condition, and the nurse informed him that everything was stable. He was about to knock on Naku's door when he saw Madhu in the corridor.

Dutta: Did you have any problems at night?

Madhu: She slept through the night without any more nightmares. If you are looking for bhabhi, she is not here. She got up early and left for work with Baji.

Dutta was disappointed that he did not get to see Naku, but was relieved to know that she managed to sleep in peace after the incident.

Within a few days, the whole had become habituated to the new arrangements. Kaya had mixed in well with Madhu and Aayi Saheb and took over some of the household responsibilities. Baji accompanied Naku to work and would secretly update throughout the day of their activities and whereabouts. Every day, Naku and Baji would leave early for work. When they returned in the evening, she would head straight to Sethji's room where she would talk to her brother for about an hour. Aayi Saheb, Madhu, and Kaya would take turns bringing Naku her the dinner that Dutta would prepare for her.

It had been three weeks since Patil house had four new occupants. Dutta was returning from his usual activities when he found Baji pacing back and forth trying to call someone.

Dutta: Baji is everything okay?

Baji: Oh, nothing. It's just that one of Shivum's friends was creating some trouble and Naku went to handle it.

Dutta: Why are you worried? She handled them pretty well last time?

Baji: It's just that this one is little bit more impulsive and isn't easily intimidated. I just don't want Naku to deal with him by herself.

At that time, Naku entered the house.

Baji: Naku…is everything okay.

Naku: Everything is fine. I took care of Shivum's friend and cleaned up his mess. Kaka Babu said he will explain things to Shivum in his own way, so we don't have to worry about it.

Baji: Good. That friend of his is somewhat an animal. Well, I'm glad that everything worked out. Anyways, Ali Mamu asked me to take care of some things. I have to head out.

After Baji left, Naku and Dutta looked at each other in silence for a few seconds. Naku then headed off to her room, but Dutta continued to stare at her like a hawk. Afer Naku was out of his sight, he asked for Madhu.

Dutta: Madhu, I need a favor from you.

Madhu: What is it bhai?

Dutta: I just saw Naku and something seems off about her. She seemed somewhat pale and I think she was trying to hide something. Can you go and check on her.

Madhu did not wait to be asked twice. She went off to see what was wrong. A few moments later, she returned running to Dutta.

Madhu: Bhai. Naku's hurt. A bullet missed her left arm.

Dutta didn't think twice about how Naku would react and barged into her room. She had taken off her black leather jacket, which was probably making it difficult for him to notice the blood, and was trying to clean a huge wound on the lower back of her left arm.

Without asking for permission, Dutta grabbed Naku's arm and examined the wound.

Dutta: How did this happen?

Naku responded by snatching her arm out of his grip, which ultimately caused her some pain. Dutta responded by getting hold of her arm again.

Dutta: You have one of two options. Either you let me take care of this wound or I can tell everyone else, including Kaka Babu and Ali Mamu about this. I'm sure they, along with Aayi Saheb, would definitely keep you off your feet for a couple of weeks.

Naku knew that he had a point. In order to avoid being stuck in Patil house 24/7, she gave Dutta a nod, granting him permission to help her. Dutta instructed Madhu to get some first aid supplies and fetch Sethji's nurse. The nurse rushed in immediately and took a look at Naku's arm.

Nurse: This is pretty deep. It needs to be stitched up. It's best if you go to a hospital.

Naku: No. Just stitch it up right here.

Nurse: You are going to be in pain.

Naku: I've dealt with worse…I'll be fine.

The nurse looked at Dutta who gave her permission to do as Naku says. He did not want to push his luck by forcing her to go to the hospital. Madhu returned will all the necessary supplies and started handing them to the nurse. Dutta bent down in front of Naku and kept his eyes fixed on her face at all times.

When the nurse put the needle in, Naku instinctively placed her right hand on Dutta's shoulder and squeezed it tightly. Dutta could tell that the pain was taking its toll on her. He placed his hand on top of hers and squeezed it.

Dutta: Just a little more. The nurse is almost done.

Once the nurse said that she was done, Naku released her hold on Dutta and took a deep breath.

Dutta: Madhu, help Naku change her clothes. I'll go and get some pain killers and something to eat.

Dutta thanked the nurse with a generous tip, and instructed her to go back to Sethji. He then found some pain killers and biscuits and heated up so milk for Naku. When he returned to her room with the tray, Madhu decided to leave and give the two some time alone. Naku had changed into a big tshirt and track pants and was sitting upright on the bed. Dutta sat down on the chair next to her bed and handed her a glass of milk.

Dutta: Finish the whole thing and eat some biscuits.

Naku managed to eat a little and finished the milk. Dutta then gave her the pain killers and then helped her lay down on the bed.

Afterwards, he told Madhu to keep an eye on Naku while he took care of some work.

The next morning, Kaya helped Naku get ready. Baji had been updated on what happened, so he bought the work home to keep Naku busy. She spent her morning looking through the files, when she received a call from Ali Mamu.

Ali Mamu: Naku are you okay?

Naku: How did you find out? Bhao said he wouldn't tell you!

Ali Mamu: Relax, he didn't. I found out because he beat up Shivum's friend that tried to shoot you. Shivum then came whining to me and Kaka Babu. Naku just take care of yourself and let Baju do the running around.

Naku: Fine. I'll talk to you later.

After ending her call, Naku headed straight for Bhao's room. He was looking at some files when she stormed in.

Naku: What part of "stay out of my life" did you not get? Why did you beat up Shivum's friend? I took care of him. I already told you that I don't want you interfering in my business.

Dutta [calmly responds]: I have no intention of interfering in your life. However, when there is some sort of threat to you or Sethji, it becomes my business, and I do not need anyone's permission to resolve it.

Naku: I don't need you to deal with my enemies. Let me remind you that I am staying here because Kaka Babu said so.

Dutta grabbed her right arm and pulled her closer to him. His face was merely an inch away from hers. With a firm and determined look Dutta responded:

Dutta: I don't care why you are here. All I know is that your safety is the most important thing, and I am not going to let your anger keep me from protecting you. Just like you, I have also changed. I'm not that Dutta Bhao who's ego will keep him from protecting the woman he loves more than himself. I suggest that you quit arguing over this matter because you are not going to win.

He then released Naku, who was still fuming, but decided to forfeit and turned around to leave.

Dutta: Wait. Now that you are here, you might as well let me change your bandages. The nurse instructed that they are changed twice a day.

Naku: You don't need to help me. I'll take care of it.

Dutta: As you wish. I'll just go and send Aayi Saheb to help you. Or better yet, I think I'll give Kaki Ma a call and have her come over.

Naku, who was irritated to the peak, turned around and sat on the chair nearby, while Dutta gave a victorious smile. He then pulled a chair in front of her and proceeded to quietly change her bandages. Naku noticed him smiling to himself. Even though part of her was happy to see him smiling, she was curious to know the reason behind it.

Naku: What's so funny?

Dutta: Nothing…I kind of like arguing with you.

Naku [confused]: What?

Dutta: Yeah. I used to get irritated when you would quietly do everything you are told and never argue back. I kind of like it when you make things difficult: it's a nice challenge.

Naku: Don't push your luck too much; otherwise, I'll make things impossible.

Dutta: I'm sure I can handle it.

Naku: I kind of like the fact that you have toned down. About time you got that outrageous temper under control.

Dutta: Well, I learned from someone that anger isn't always a solution…too bad it took me a long time to learn that.

Naku: Better late than never.

By then, Dutta had completed his task.

Naku [sarcastically]: Now can I go?

Dutta: Yes, you can.

Before she exited, Naku looked at Bhao one more time.

Naku [with a frown]: This doesn't mean that I have forgiven you.

Dutta [smiled back]: I figured.

As soon as Naku left, Bhao gave a light chuckle. After a long time, he felt light-hearted. After this little encounter with Naku, he was hopeful that maybe there is a way for them to move on.

And TaSha seem to be getting closer, if not falling in love, at least they are talking to each other

And now that Naku is living in his house, they'll get to see each other more often😆

Naku is so stubborn though, but I am glad dutta is being fierce as well...

continue soon!

Atlast.. a little tasha moment even doe its not lovey dovey lol but awww a part of her felt happy to see him smile..

Dats so sweet of him to tke care of her n sethji like dat...

Im sure with time n the way he cares she will forgive him but not so soon ...

I'm liking the fighting/arguing scenes between them n how he keeps blackmailing her loll.. how cute..

Great update.. Continue soon

read all the three parts in one go

your fic is real interesting..i hope u continue soon....cant wait :)

awww naku bk in PN n hw cute tht dutta is takin care of her indirectly by gtin aayi saheb 2 feed her...wow loved the last part wer he pulls her closer 2 him, n confessed tht he stil loves her mre thn himself... there surely is hpe cos she stil loves him n was happy 2 c him smile...

btw wen naku is havin a conversation with ali mamu ova the phone, she addresses dutta as bhao.. i think tht seems weird becos bhao means bro

hmm i think mayb shivam is with vikrant n tellin him evrythin..no doubt the attack was by vikrant...