Sorry if the coming parts seem to be disoriented as I'm losing track with the story myself. Just trying to get to a logical conclusion. Short update, please bear with me.
Surprises Phulwa was busy in work when the phone in the lounge rang. She picked it up and a smile crossed her face as it was Abhay on the other end. He had called her to inform her that the land problem she had discussed with him earlier that week was resolved and the reason he was calling her because it was through Phulwas constant help and ingenious idea that the matter was resolved so quickly. She smiled brightly at his compliments and happier that she was able to save another kid's innocence and childhood.
She thanked Abhay and was about to put the phone down when he informed that tonight there was a party held by Commissioner Sir at his farmhouse and they had to go there. But before that he instructed her to go to their room, check their cupboard as there was a gift waiting for her there. He simply asked her to be dressed in that in the evening.
After putting the phone down Phulwa wanted to run up to the room to see the surprise but just then Thakurian called her out to help her with some work. And rest of the day passed as so. When evening came Phulwa finally had a chance to go to her room. Eagerly she opened the cupboard and found a small box beautifully wrapped. Carefully opening it she found a beautiful black net sari in it. She ran her hand over it feeling the soft texture and a smile played on her lips. Just then the clock chimed 7pm. Uh oh, I'll be late Phulwa thought to herself as Abhay would be here in any minute now and she had little time to get ready. Quickly she got to changing and getting ready for the party.
Almost forty-five minutes later now dressed in the black sari, she stood before the mirror trying to tie the two straps of her halter neck blouse which were to be tied at the back of the neck. Finally she managed to do so and then got down to doing her hair and make-up. She wasn't sure how to go about it as she had never worn such a dress before, so she sat clueless as to what hairstyle would suit with this sari. Deep in thought she did not hear as Gauri came from behind.
'Jijiya kahin ja rahein hain?'
Phulwa looked up at her. 'Haan Gauri woh aaj Commissioner sahab ke ghaar party hai na wahin jana hai. Par dekho na humein samajh hi nahi araha ke kya baal banein.' She said in an annoyed tone.
'Lain hum karte hain.' Saying that Gauri took over the task of doing her hair and make-up. When she finished she moved back and admired her handiwork.
'Jijiye ab tu aap kaamal ki lag rahi hain. Abhayjee tu aap ko dekhte reh jain gey.'
Her hair now tied up in a lose bun with a few tendrils falling on her face, Phulwa looked at herself in the mirror uncertain. She had never worn such a dress before and was feeling extremely conscious. While her one shoulder was covered by the sari the other one and most of her back was left bare thanks to the halter neck blouse, making her feel uncomfortable. She quickly draped the sari palu over it.
Gauri was about to protest over it when they both turned towards the door as they heard Surje calling out for Phulwa. Gauri went to the door and Surje informed that Abhay has sent a car over at home for Phulwa. He is busy in work so won't be able to come home and will directly join Phulwa in the party. Phulwa looked a bit apprehensive at this arrangement but still agreed to go.
*
A few minutes later Phulwa was in car on her way to the farmhouse which seemed a long way from the haveli. The road they were passing on now was dark and lonely, with a thick jungle around it. Half an hour later, the car suddenly came to a halt. Phulwa looked up as driver excused himself to check the car. Few moments later he informed that the car had heated up and needed to get some water for it. With that he left.
As seconds ticked by Phulwa grew restless and the driver had turned off the A/C of the car so it was getting hot inside. She decided to step out to get some fresh air. She had just stepped out when she heard a sound like someone was walking. She turned and looked everywhere but there was no one to be seen; just a long empty road stretching on both sides.
Then she heard a rustling in the trees behind her in the jungle. She nearly jumped at the sound and turned towards the sound. Still, no one. Now panicking a bit she called out to the driver but no answer.
She started to pace around looking for some sign of life but there seemed to be none so she decided to walk back home.
She started to walk back when she again heard a crunching sound like someone walking over dry leaves.
Quickly she turned around but just as she did a hand came over her mouth from behind...
Cricket
Bade Achche Lagte Hain Naya Season
