Thanks to all who read my previous short stories and have posted comments. Short Story - Call and I will Come! https://www.indiaforums.com/forum/kasamh-se/627908/short-story-call-and-i-will-come Saath Jab Choota Part 1 link (https://www.indiaforums.com/forum/kasamh-se/618011/ff-saath-jab-choota-part-3-pg3)
Zindagi Ka Safar Hai Ye Kaisa SafarKoi Samjha Nahin Koi Jaana NahinHai Ye Kaisi Dagar Chalte Hain Sab MagarKoi Samjha Nahin Koi Jaana Nahin
Pt 1
The older woman clad in white sari was trying to comfort the younger woman sitting next to her who was crying hysterically. In front of them lay the two bodies covered in white with flowers strewn over it. One was her husband, the other her young son not even married for two months.
Yesterday they had been so happy, Pushkar and her husband were returning from Mumbai where Pushkar had taken his dad to see specialist about his medical condition. They also had another reason to be happy as Bani had just found out she was pregnant. Both had made plans to do a small celebration when they got home…instead they had sat waiting late into the night for their return. The knock on the door at 11 PM had both them rushing to the door only to see Inspector Rajiv Kapoor standing there with solemn look on his face.
All night Sarla had tried to comfort her daughter-in-law who had completely shattered on hearing the news. Friends and family had quickly gathered to console them and she was glad when her husband close friend Adi had flown in from Mumbai on receiving the news of his friend's death. He had taken over to see the arrangement for the creamation.
Sarla hated to do all ritual associated with the death of husband on her bahu, breaking her glass bangles and rubbing off her sindoor. She since Pushkar had brought Bani home to meet them; both she and husband had adored her and couldn't wait for them to get married. Today she couldn't bear to see her bahu in white sari.
Two days later Adi took leave telling Sarla to call her if she needed any help. Adi looked at Bani sitting lifeless on the floor near the puja room and caressing her head said few words to comfort her and felt his heart flinch as tears trickled down her cheeks.
Pt 2
Two months later…
The phone rang in Adi's office, Jai Walia who was working there picked it up.
He heard a distraught female voice, "Adi uncle, mei Bani bol rahi hu. Aap jaldi aajayee, mummy hospital mei hai, bahut serious hai aur who aplo milna chahti hai..muje baar baar aapki phone karne kehti hai. Mt Abu hospital pe aajayee, ICU per."
Before he could say anything the phone went dead. Jai dialled Adi's number and received his voice mail, leaving a message to call him as it was urgent he returned back to his work.
Adi was away in Chennai on business, Jai was supposed to go but had been delayed in Delhi and so Adi had to make the trip. Two hours later Jai's cell phone buzzed, flicking it open he saw Adi's name.
"Jai kya hua," Adi asked. He'd just come out of the meeting and checked his voicemail.
"Don't worry Adi everything is fine at home but there was a call for you from Mt Abu." Jai spoke filling, Adi in with about the call from Bani.
"Jai, Bani was Pushkar's wife and the woman in hospital is his mother. I told her when I went there for Pushkar's funeral to call me if ever she needed help. You have to go for me Jai, please. You will get there quicker than me."
"But Adi…" Jai started to say but Adi interrupted him, "Jai, I understand but Sarla has no one else to turn to, remember she lost both her husband and her only son."
"Fine, I'll wrap up things here and fly down." Jai replied ending the call.
11 PM, Jai Walia walks into Mt Abu hospital, getting direction for the ICU he walks towards it. Outside Sarla's room he sees a young girl, in pale pick salwar pacing up and down. Her tear stricken face looks up at him hopefully as he approaches him and a look of disappointment as she fails to recognize him.
"Bani…" Jai asks as he stands in front of her.
"Jee, aap kaun?" she questions him.
"My name is Jai Walia, Adi is away on business so he asked me to come down." Jai tells her gently.
"Aap mummy ke paas ayayee," she opened the door of the ICU room, waiting for him to follow.
Walking to the bed where Sarla lay, hooked to various machines, Jai noticed a deathly pallor of the woman that lay there.
Motioning him to sit down on the chair, she left him alone with Sarla.
Not sure of what to do next, he sat for few minutes and than stood up to go. Sarla eyes flickered open and saw Jai standing next to her.
"Mr Walia…" she manages to whisper.
Hearing his name he looks down to see her looking at him with a faint smile.
"Aap kaiso ho Aunty?" he asks taking seat again on the chair.
Struggling to speak, Sarla raised her hand in a gesture, "Theek hu abhi lekin…" and she trailed off.
"Aunty, why did you want to see Adi? He is away on business trip and he sent me down to see how we can help you?"
Breathing hard, Sarla spoke, "It's about Bani. I wanted to ask Adi to look after her if anything happened to me. She doesn't have close family that she can turn to for help."
Tears trickled down her cheeks as she looked at him imploringly. It hurt her to think that she would leave Bani alone, especially with the baby on the way.
"She is going to have Pushkar's child. Pushkar didn't know when he died. She found out on the day he died." Sarla spoke as she struggled to regain her breath. "I don't think I am going to be around too long. Could ask Adi this much for me?"
Reassuring her he stood up and left the room.
Outside Bani was sitting in a chair gazing at the floor and didn't notice Jai coming and sitting down next to her, until he put his hand on her hand.
Jerking her head up she looked at him bleakly, "Did you talk with her? Is she alright now?"
"She is resting now. I think you should go home and rest. I will stay here until you come in the morning. Come will get a taxi to take you home." He smiled at her and squeezing and made her get up. She followed in a daze, her mind in turmoil and tiredness taking over her body now.
When he came back Jai made himself comfortable on the sofa in the waiting room, making a mental note to call Adi first thing in the morning.
Pt 3
4 AM, Jai is awakened by the sound of running feet and voices. He opens his eyes and stretches and notices doctor and nurse running into Sarla's ICU. Jai follows in only to be told by the nurse to wait outside.
Twenty minutes later the doctor walked out and looked at Jai asking him if he was family. Jai informed him her daughter-in-law was at home and there was no other family member and that he was family friend. He told Jai Sarla just died due to heart failure.
This unexpected turn of event leaves Jai floundering…what now…have to call Adi. Jai dialled Adi's cell and after several rings, answers call half-asleep. Telling him about Sarla's death and what she had asked yesterday, "So what do I do now Adi?"
Following a few moments of silence, Adi spoke, "Jai I am going to try and get flight there as soon as possible. Help Bani with what ever needs to be done. I think it would be good if Maasi or maa to come down."
"Leave that to me but make sure you can get here fast." Saying Jai ended the call and dialled Ranveer's number in Mumbai.
Ranveer arrived at the house around lunchtime with Maasi, Dadi and Raashi. Jai took Maasi and Dadi to Bani's room explaining details to them. Maasi looked at Bani curled up on the bed crying and sat down next to her. As Maasi touched her head, Bani turned and clung to Maasi crying. Half and hour later as her crying ceased, Maasi left her telling her to rest while she goes and checks if anything needs doing.
Maasi found Jai had arranged for the funeral with help of neighbours. Jai performed all the rites for Sarla as no other family members were about. Adi arrived just in time to join the creamation. Later at night as Jai and Adi sat around deciding what to do next, Maasi came running, "Jai get the car quick, we have to take Bani to hospital, I think she is losing her baby."
Adi went with Maasi and carried Bani out who was moaning with pain. They rushed her to the hospital emergency where the medical team rushed her in to operating theatre. Half an hour later doctor emerged and told Maasi Bani had miscarried and she was weak as she had lost a lot of blood, but should recover with care. Maasi asked if they could see her and the doctor told them they could but she was heavily sedated, as she needed to rest.
Maasi sent the rest of them home and stayed with Bani during the night. She wanted to be there when Bani woke up, she knew in her heart the young woman who's had to face the loss of family so young in her life was going to be devastated with loss of her child.
Early morning Bani stirred and gazed around trying to figure out where she was. As she picture of what occurred last night folded, her hand automatically went to her stomach. She sensed the emptiness where she had felt life before and flood of tears escaped her eyes. Maasi who was lying on the couch in the room woke up when she heard her crying, getting up quickly she rushed to her and held her trying to comfort her.
Bani's gripping Maasi tightly and sobbing uncontrollably, "Mera saath aisa kyun hua…Pushkar chal gaya…maji chal gayee aur aub mera baacha bhi…"
"Bhagwan ne mujhe kyun akela chod diya…mai marna chahti houn…mai jeena nahi chahti…mera koi nahi raha…" she screamed trying to rip IV drip out of her hands. Maasi panicking calls the nurse who rushes in trying to stop Bani from getting out of bed. She asks Maasi to get one of the other nurses to get the doctor quickly.
The doctor sedated Baani and requested Maasi that Bani shouldn't be left alone in her present condition. Maasi made up her mind she would take Bani back with her to Mumbai. Jai wouldn't say no to her…she wasn't going to leave this girl to fend by herself.
Pt 4
Around midday the Jai arrived at the hospital with rest of the family. Maasi told Jai of her decision to take Bani back to Mumbai when she was discharged, until than she would stay with her here.
While they were having lunch, Jai phone rang. Glancing at the name flashing, Pia, he swore under breath as he said curtly, "What do you want Pia?"
"Where the hell are you Jai? Why aren't you home? I need to leave Jiya with you as I am going to Italy for fashion shoot. My flight leaves tonight. Make sure you get back to the house tonight when I drop Jiya off." Pia ranted at him, taking her annoyance out at him. She had panicked when she found out Jai and his family were not at the Walia mansion. She wasn't going to give up this contract of fashion in Italy.
Jai controlling his anger, "Pia, leave Jiya with Tony, he will take care of her until I get home tonight."
"What leave him with Tony? Are you insane? Ek naukar ki saath meri beti chod du?" Pia screamed at him.
"Pia, don't scream at me!And Tony naukar nahi hai…he has been looking after me for more than twenty years. At least he knows his responsibility more than you. I have compensated you generously, you don't need to go gallivanting around, and you could stay home and take care of our daughter." Jai fumed internally, he hated Jiya living with Pia, knowing her lifestyle she wasn't the best person to bring up a child, but the judge thought differently when they awarded her the custody.
Maasi and Adi looked at him worridly. As he ended the call, Maasi asked, "What happened Jai? Pia ne phone kyun kiya?"
"Nothing to worry about Maasi, she is going away and wants to leave Jiya with us," Jai replied.
"Aacha hua, at least Jiya will be with us." Maasi smiled as she said this. The family adored Jai's daughter Jiya, who was four now. Jai and the family spoilt Jiya, whenever she stayed with them, which wasn't very frequent.
Pia hadn't been Maasi choice for bahu for her sister's son, but Jai had been so infatuated with her that he had refused to listen. Maasi had given in since Jai had finally decided to settle down. Soon after the marriage the problem started. Pia was always away at modelling shoots or out at parties. She had no interest in running the home. If she ever stayed at home than she would insult everyone, shouting if people did run to her beck and call. When she got pregnant Maasi thought she would settle, but no such luck. In fact Jai threaten her with dire consequences if she lost the baby through negligence to make her stay home.
It had been happiest day for Jai when Jiya was born. Jai had thrown a huge party to celebrate her birth. For a while Pia was also enamoured with her daughter, but as days wore on she got restless and returned to her lifestyle of partying, leaving Jiya to be taken care of by Jai and Maasi. Jai had put up with Pia for the sake of their daughter but year and half later, he told her he was divorcing her and would seek custody of Jiya.
Pia had got mad and told Jai there was no way he was going to get custody of Jiya, she was going to leave no stone unturned to make sure that Jai did not get custody of Jiya and paid a large alimony to her as he was the one seeking divorce.
Pt 5
A week later Maasi returned to Mumbai with Bani. Maasi was worried about her as Bani wasn't eating much and had lost a lot of weight. Bani hardly talked and most of the time sat around staring into space. Maasi asked Jai to make an appointment for Bani to see one of the doctors at the hospital as soon as possible.
Jiya's had livened up the house. She bubbly young child was a chatterbox, loved talking with everyone. She would be up early and would wake Jai up by running into his room and jumping on his bed. If he didn't get up than she would pull at his arm until he got up and helped her get ready. Once she was ready she would run to the pooja room because she knew her Raashi Bhabhi would be there. Raashi would help her do aarti and give prasad out.
Today she ran into Pooja room, she stared at the woman sitting in front of the murti…she wasn't her Raashi Bhabhi. When Bani didn't turn and look at her, Jiya pulled at Bani's pallu, "aap ka naam kya hai. Mei Jiya houn," she said.
Again when Bani didn't look at her, she went in front of her and noticing her tears, she wiped them. "Why are you crying Aunty?"
"Kissi ne apko dantaa?" she asked in her innocent voice.
The sweet voice of child registered somewhere in subconscious and Bani looked at the sweet angel standing in front of her. She thought she was dreaming…may be this would have been her child. Shaking her head she put her hand on Jiya's cheek and feeling the warmth seeping into her hand, realized she wasn't dreaming.
Just then Raashi walked in with pooja thali. Seeing Jiya, "Jiya Aunty ko pareshan maat karo."
"Bhabhi why is she crying?" Jiya asked her, she wasn't happy as Bani didn't tell her why she had been crying.
"Jiya, Aunty is not feeling well that is why she was crying. But Maasi is going to take her to see doctor and you will see, she will soon be happy." Raashi pulled the little girl in hug and made her sit down.
"Bhabhi can I do aarti with Aunty today?" Jiya asked.
"I am sure Aunty will love to do aarti with you." Raashi beamed at her.
After doing pooja, Raashi handed aarti thali to Bani and asked her to do aarti with Jiya. She stood back and watched the two do aarti hoping Jiya can bring some happiness back into Bani's life.
At breakfast Jiya held Bani's hand and asked her to sit next to her. Jai and Maasi watched as Jiya asked Bani to feed her breakfast. Jiya totally ignored everyone else at the table and just spoke to Bani. If anyone said anything to her she just glared at them.
Jai couldn't help smiling at his daughter's antic and told Maasi, "Laagta hai Jiya ko hamari jaaroorath nahi abhi."
Maasi just smiled and said, "Sometimes children can do miracles where we fail. I think Jiya will be good for Bani. Maybe she can make her forget some of her pain."
Jiya spent all day doing things with Bani. She made her read books to her, watch her favourite shows and play with her in the garden. By the end of day Jiya had got Bani to talk little bit with her. At night she insisted on sleeping with Bani and Jai and Maasi let her. Cuddling up with the little girl Bani heart warmed with love for the little girl who had shown so much love.
Pt 6
In the morning as usual Jiya went into Jai's room. "Wake up papa, don't be lazy," as she tugged at his arms.
Jai picked her up and snuggling with her, "Why are you awake so early, sweety?"
"Papa, today I want to go on picnic with you, maasi, dadi, bhabhi and Bani. Today you don't go to work." Jiya sat up and looked at him with big smile on her face.
"We will have lots of fun, na papa. Please papa let go on a picnic," giggling she planted a kiss on his cheek.
Jai hate to disappoint but today he had to be at the office for an important meeting.
"How about we go on a long picnic tomorrow? Today papa can't take holiday, but tomorrow we can go to our beach house for picnic. We will have lots fun baby with everybody." Jai kissed her back and looked at her with love.
Jumping up off the bed she ran skipped about, "I am going to go an tell Bani Aunty and Raashi bhabhi."
Jai watched his daughter happily run out of his room and into Bani's room. Not seeing her there she ran down to pooja room where she happily told Bani about going on picnic.
Everyone was excited about going to the beach house. It has been a long time since they went anywhere together as a family. Next morning there was flurry of activity as everyone woke up early and got ready to go. Jiya insisted Bani and Raashi sit with her in Jai's car. All the way Jiya had Bani and Raashi giggling along with her with her cute remarks. Jai looked with love and pride as he watched his daughter through the mirror whilst driving. He noticed how Jiya would cling to Bani and then when she pointed out things outside on the road.
They arrived late in the afternoon at the beach house. Everything had been arranged for their arrival and Jiya followed Bani to her room announcing this was her room too. Bani smiled at the little girl and sitting her in her lap asked, "Jiya don't you want to sleep with your papa?"
"No papa makes too much noise when he sleeps," she looked at Bani and wrinkled her nose. "I like sleeping with you Bani Aunty. You know how to tell stories, papa doesn't know and when he reads book to me, he falls asleep."
Bani helped Jiya change into shorts and t-shirt and sent her off to Jai. She didn't want Jiya spending time with her, she wished Jiya to spend time with Jai as he had obviously made effort to bring her down here so they could be together.
Jai took Jiya to play on the beach with Ranveer and Adi whilst the ladies got food organized. She happily splashed about in the water and then got all three of them building sandcastles. When she saw Raashi and Bani walking she called out to them to come and look. When they came near she proudly pointed out the shells and pebbles she had used to decorate her sandcastles.
Raashi told them food was ready and they were waiting for them to come back and change so they could eat. Jiya's face fell, she didn't want to go back and eat. Seeing tears in her eyes, Bani picked her up and told her she could play all day tomorrow on the beach and they could have a picnic lunch on the beach. Jiya hugged Bani and made her promise that she could have picnic on the beach tomorrow.
Jiya almost fell asleep whilst eating and Jai picked her up from Bani's lap and took her and put her on bed. During the evening they sat outside on the beach just talking and enjoying the cool evening air.
As promised, Jiya dragged Jai out to the beach as soon as they were ready. Jai tried to teach her to swim and played with her on the beach. Raashi and Bani set up a picnic lunch at noon and the whole family enjoyed the meal on the beach. Late in the afternoon Jiya tired out went to where Bani was sitting under the shade and fell asleep in her lap. Maasi sighed deeply as she took in the sight of Bani cradling Jiya and wished Pia had been more like Bani.
Pt 7
They returned back home late Sunday tired but happy from the mini holiday. A week later Pia returned back from her trip and came to pick Jiya up. Jiya threw a tantrum refusing to go home with Pia. She cried clinging to Bani saying she wanted to stay with her.
Pia shouted at Jiya saying she was her mother and she had to go home with her. Jai wasn't home and Adi persuaded Pia to go home and that when Jai came home he would get him to drop her home. Giving Bani a venomous look, Pia stormed out.
Bani tried to make Jiya understand she had to go home to be with her mum but Jiya refused saying there was no one there to play with her or tell her bedtime stories and she didn't like to sleep alone.
When Jai came home at night Jiya had cried herself to sleep. Adi filled him in on what occurred when Pia had come to take Jiya back home. Jai went to Bani's room and picked Jiya up from her bed and left to drop her at Pia's. Bani looked out from her bedroom window as Jai's car sped away from the house. She felt tears rolling down as her loneliness returned once again.
Next morning Jiya woke up in her own bedroom and realizing she was back in her own house she started crying again. No amount of cajoling or blackmailing from Pia had any effect. She refused to get out of bed or eat food. Pia left her thinking she would eventually calm down and return to normal. Jiya did stop crying but the little girl withdrew inwardly. She refused to talk with Piya and kept to her room hardly eating anything.
Pia blamed Jai for Jiya's condition, accusing him of turning Jiya against her. She bad mouthed everyone else in Walia house and told Jai what the hell was matter with him leaving Jiya in care of Bani, assuming her to be nanny Jai had hired to take care of Jiya.
Jai lost his temper with her telling her to stop blaming others for her short comings. Speaking harsh words, he blasted her for not spending time taking care of Pia…If she spent more time with her daughter than Jiya wouldn't want to be with others. Just because she found someone who took interest in her, played with her and gave her affection does not mean they turned your daughter against you.
Jai was worried about Jiya, he had been to see her couple of days later and she had clung to him crying asking him to take her back with him. Jai lied about having to go away on business, he couldn't take away unless Pia gave permission and the mood she was in at the moment, there was no way she would to say yes.
At the Walia house, Bani withdrew in her shell too. Jiya had occupied her mind and given her no time to dwell on her past…now Jiya was gone too and her heart had taken another blow. She felt as her heart was torn into bits…it wasn't fair…she no home…she had no family. Jiya had brought a little light of hope inside her dark heart but she was gone too. If only she had her own child it would have given her hope to live.
Jai was working late in his study, the door left slightly ajar. He sensed as if someone walked by and he looked up. He to put his mind to rest, he walked up and looked around to see Bani walking towards the door.
He softly called out, "Bani where are you going at this time of night."
She stood still without replying, paralyzed with anxiety…she hadn't expected anyone to be about…she just wanted to leave from here and go far away…to be alone…to curl up sleep and never wake up.
Bani moved towards the door but before she could open it, Jai was there in two strides stopping her. Turning her around he took in her tear filled eyes and as tear rolled down, involuntarily his hand moved to her cheek.
She stiffened as she felt his thumb rubbing her cheek, panicking she stepped back looking at him. Before he could say another word, she turned and ran back up the stairs, crying "Jiya…"
Jai closed his eyes and gave a deep sigh and walked back to his study.
Pt 8
Next morning Jai related the night's event to the family asking them to keep an eye on Bani and not to let her go out alone. Massi suggested to Jai maybe Bani could do some kind of work in Walia offices. If she was busy than she wouldn't have time to dwell on the past and make new friends. Adi told maasi he would talk with her and see if they had any suitable job openings for her.
Adi had just hired a new corporate lawyer, Aparajit Deb for their legal department and he needed office assistant, maybe Bani could have this job if she was interested. He would talk to her tonight about it.
At night Adi went to Bani's room and asked her to come to study as he wanted to talk to her. He asked if she would be interested in working, if so there was job for office assistant at the office. He explained what the job duties would be and she would get training as they offered in-house training to their staff. Adi gently explained to her that she was young and she needed to make her own life, be independent and this would be good way of getting experience. Telling her to think about it and let him know he left her.
Bani spent sleepless night thinking about what Adi had said. She had never given a thought about going out to work or studying. She had wanted to study further but was never got chance as her all her chacha was interested in was getting her married off as soon as possible so he would be rid the responsibility of her. Living with her chacha hadn't been easy. After her parents death most of the money had been used off to pay off her father's debts and so her chacha had been annoyed at having to take care of her.
Bani had been a good student, but her chacha had always discouraged her saying she didn't need schooling, as she would be married soon.
Two days later she told Adi she will take up his offer. Next morning Bani was ready for work and left with Adi. Adi took her to Aparajit's office to introduce her and showed her where her office. After few minutes Aparajit called her into his office and they discussed her job duties. He gave her some files to look over and if she had any question with regards to them they would discuss them later.
Adi's PA Rano was young, smart, easygoing person and Adi had introduced her to Bani telling her if she needed any help to seek Rano out. Rano took her around the offices and familiarized her with the various departments, including lunchroom. She told Bani she would come around lunch-time and they could go and have lunch together and she would introduce her to some of the people that she knew.
Bani found Aparajit easy to get along with. The work load was easy for her to manage and by the end of the week she felt at ease with everyone that she came in contact with. Adi would pop in now and then to make sure she was ok. She very rarely saw Jai at work…he seemed to be busy with meetings and conferences. Aparajit insisted on her out to lunch on Friday and they walked to the caf across the road and ordered their lunches. Aparajit made good-humoured comments about people around them, making Bani giggle at the silly comments. Having enjoyed her lunch, Bani commented she should go back.
Dr Preeti looked at the little girl lying listlessly on the examining couch. She looked at Pia, "Pia how could you let this happen. Why didn't you bring her in earlier when you knew she wasn't eating properly? Children can get sick easily when they are malnourished. Does Jai know about this?" She questioned the disinterested woman sitting in front of her. Dr Preeti destested Pia, she couldn't understand how a woman could not love and care for such an adorable child.
Getting no response from Pia, she picked up the phone and dialled Jai.
"Jai this is Dr. Preeti, I wanted to talk to you about Jiya. She is not well and Pia just brought her in to my office. Can you come down, we need to talk." Dr Preeti looked at Pia's annoyed face as she waited for Jai to reply.
"I am leaving right now. Don't let Pia leave," Jai requested her.
Twenty minutes later Jai stormed into the doctor's office and seeing Jiya's condition, he turned and glared at Pia, "Why the hell didn't you call me? You knew how upset she was coming back to you…do did make any effort to find out why she didn't want you?" Frustrated he ran his hand through his hair and he turned to Dr Preeti.
"What's matter with her doctor? Does she need to be hospitalized?" He asked sitting down next to Jiya and lifting her up in his lap.
"No Jai, she doesn't need to be hospitalized yet, but if she does start eating properly soon, she will end up in hospital." Dr Preeti told him with concern in her voice.
Jai stood up, looked at Pia scathingly "I am taking Jiya with me. She'll stay with me and will only come back to you if she wants to. Also I am going back to the courts to get custody of her."
"Jai you can't…" Pia never got to finish as Jai cut her off, "Try stopping me Pia. I will press charges against you if need be to stop you." Jai walked out the door and drove straight back to the office. Carrying Jiya in his office he laid her on the sofa and called Adi to his office.
Before Adi had a chance to ask him anything, Jai looked at him and said "Get Bani for me will you."
Adi rushed out and brought Bani back to Jai's office. Bani looked at Jiya and rushed to her. She cradled her in arms and looked at Jai questioningly.
"She hasn't been eating properly. Doctor said she will be ok once she starts eating. I was wondering if you don't mind looking after her for me. I'll drop you both home." Turning to Adi, "Do you mind if telling AD that Bani is going home?"
Driving to Walia house, Jiya stirred in Bani's arm. She looked up and seeing Bani, she raised her hand to Bani's face as if making sure that she isn't dreaming. "Bani Aunty… is it you?" she whispered, blinking her eyes.
Bani dropped soft kisses on her face and smiled at her, "Yes Jiya it's me. We are taking you home."
A small spread on Jiya's face and she hugged her tightly and turned around and looked at Jai and said, "Papa, you won't take back na…I want to stay with you and Bani Aunty."
Jai smiled at her, "No honey, you are going to stay with me for as long as want."
Bani took Jiya upstairs to freshen up and when they came down Jai had asked Tony to set up table with food. Jiya looked at food and asked, "Bani Aunty I want chocolate milkshakes."
Bani asked Tony to get two chocolate milkshakes. She put some rice and daal in a plate and started feeding Jiya. Jai who had gone to maasi's room to tell her Jiya was home looked gratefully at Bani as she fed his daughter.
Maasi and dadi came down and hugged Jiya. When she had finished eating they took Jiya and sat with her on the sofa whilst Bani finished her meal. Bani asked Jai if he was going to eat, but he told her he needed to get back to office and would have something there.
Jai called Aparajit Deb into his office and explained him about getting custody for Jiya. He asked him to prepare papers for filing to the court. AD told him why didn't he get married it would help his case as the judge would look favourably that there is a full time care provider.
Pt 9
Within a week Jiya had started gaining some weight back and was eating normally. Initially she did get upset when Bani returned back to work but got used to seeing Bani go to work and coming home back in the evening. Bani made sure she spent as much time as she could with her. She suggested to Jai Jiya was a smart child and may be he should look into sending her to school.
AD dropped by the house to drop custody papers. Maasi was at home as Bani and Jiya had taken dadi for walk. Giving the file to maasi, AD sat down chatting with maasi. He and maasi were talking about Jiya when Jiya, Bani and dadi returned from their walk. Tarun got up and greeted maasi, Jiya and Bani. He noticed how Jiya kept her self close to Bani. He wondered what kind of relationship Jai and Bani had for her to be staying in his house and have such close relationship with his daughter.
It was weekend and as usual Jiya was up early. She ran into Jai's room to be disappointed that he had already left. She came back to Bani and complained that her papa had already gone. She tugged at Bani's arm and asked, "Bani Aunty get up na…Let's go somewhere I am bored."
Bani pulling her down and hugging her, "Jiya it's too early to go anywhere, people are still sleeping."
"No they are not. Papa got up and left for work," she said matter-of-factly.
"But he went to work Jiya, even Raashi bhabhi is not up."
"I could go and wake her up and than me and you and bhabhi can go somewhere." Jiya started to roll off the bed but Bani holding her, "Jiya let Raashi sleep, your Ranveer bhaiya will get mad."
"No he won't! He loves me." Getting away from Bani she ran away before Bani could stop her. Half and hour she came back and told Bani that she was going to mandir with her Bhabhi and Ranveer Bhaiya, and she wanted Bani to come with her. Bani got up and helped Jiya get ready and than she herself got ready.
Raashi laughed when they came downstairs.
"I see she didn't let you sleep either Bani," as she patted Jiya's cheeks. "Come have something to eat Jiya before we go."
"Just some milk bhabhi...no food" Jiya told her as she followed Raashi into the kitchen.
They were waiting for Ranveer to come down and Jiya was getting impatient.
"How long does it take him to get ready?" she questioned Raashi.
"Not long," Raashi replied.
"Not long…I've been waiting ages. Mum said girls take long to get ready not boys." Jiya moaned.
Bani and Raashi giggled at her comments. Few minutes later Ranveer came down and they left.
It was almost noon when they came back, because Jiya insisted on going to the mall for shopping, not that she bought anything once they got to the mall.
As Jiya ran into the house, she noticed Pia sitting with maasi on the sofa. She slowed down and looked at Pia.
Pia stood up and came to her and pecking her on the cheek, "Hi Jiya, miss me…"
Jiya shook her head and ran to maasi.
Controlling her tongue, Pia turned and walked back to where they were sitting.
She looked at Jiya and said, "I came to take you out, thought we could do something fun, Jiya."
Jiya not looking at her, "I already went out with Bani Aunty and bhaiya," she told Pia.
Bani felt sorry for Pia and went up to Jiya, she looked at Jiya and spoke to her gently, "Jiya why don't go and spend a day with your mum… she'll bring you back in the evening."
Jiya looked stubbornly at Bani, "No!"
Bani whispered to Jiya, "Go ask her to promise she will bring you back later."
Jiya reluctantly got up and looked at Pia with a sad face, "If I come…you promise to bring back."
Inwardly Pia was fuming…the nerve of that woman to decide what I can do with my daughter or not…why do I have to make silly promises to take my child with me. She knew she would have to promise, Jiya was too smart for her own good. Putting a smile on her face, she looked at her daughter and said, "I promise, I will bring you back whenever you ask me. Shall we go?" and she held her hand out to Jiya.
Hesitantly Jiya took her hand and smiled as Bani and maasi and left with Pia.
Jai was angry that Pia had taken Jiya with her without telling him and he was let maasi know he was annoyed that they let Jiya go with Pia without calling him first. It's 8 PM and Jiya hadn't returned yet. Jai was pacing up and down in his study. He had earlier snapped at Raashi when she came to call him for dinner. He had called Pia's cell phone but couldn't reach her…she must have deliberately turned it off he thought. Just as he was thinking of driving down to her place, he heard sound of car driving up to the house.
He strode out of his study and walked towards the door to see Jiya coming into the house.
She happily rant to Jai and hugged him. Pacified slightly he still shouted at Pia, "Why didn't you call to let me know that you wanted to take Jiya out?"
Pia looked at him coolly, "Why do I need your permission to see my daughter? If you remember I still have custody for her."
Not for long, he muttered under his breath and than piercing her eyes with his look, "Next time talk to me first before you take Jiya out."
Pointing her finger at Bani, she snapped, "Does she also ask you for permission before she takes Jiya out?"
Livid with rage at what she was implying, he turned and walked off to his study leaving Pia glaring at his receding back.
Bani felt uncomfortable being caught up in this situation…she felt as if she had inadvertently caused this rift between Jiya and her mother.
That night Bani tossed around in her bed unable to sleep, her mind kept on replaying the scene between Jai and Pia. Eventually she stood up and slipped out of her room making her way quietly towards the stairs. As she took the first step she froze as she saw Jai walking up the stairs. Locking eyes with her Jai walked up stopping when he was level with her eyes.
"Can't sleep?" he asked her.
Shaking her head, she looked down, "No, just feeling thirsty and was going downstairs to get a glass of water."
Feeling that she wasn't telling the truth, probably upset with Pia's outburst, he looked at her softly, "Sorry for what Pia said earlier. She is like that, says without thinking about others feelings."
Surprised she said shakily, "There is no need for apology. I am sorry to be the cause of problem between her and Jiya." She stumbled as she stepped down and Jai's arm shot out to break her fall. The touch of her body against him sent an intense feeling running through him…to soothe her, to touch her face and to kiss her. She looked up at him and saw an intense pair of eyes staring at her. Feeling unsettled she looked away too quickly and straightened herself. Mumbling, "Thanks." She quickly made her way down to the kitchen.
He continued to gaze at her noticing how fragile she looked in the dim light thrown by a lamp lit in the room below.
Pt 10
Aparajit knocked on Jai's office door and entered the room. Jai pushing his laptop aside glanced at him and asked to sit.
Handing him the file in his hand he sat down, "Mr Walia the file contains copy of documents from your ex-wife's lawyer. You'll see they are citing you are unfit for custody as you present status is of a live in relationship with Bani Shukla and is not suitable environment for raising a child."
Jai frowned and looked at him, "Bani and I do not have relationship except that of friendship. She happens to be living in my house because my maasi was concerned for her health after she lost her husband and then her baby. The fact that she looks after my daughter far better than Pia is beside the point. It's a false statement so why give it any merit?"
"It will be up to you to prove this is not true, how are you going to convince the judge. But, you could turn this to your advantage and get married to her…as you said she takes better care of your daughter than her own mother." Aparajit looked at him convincingly.
"Why do I have to marry Bani? I could marry any one I want." Jai was perturbed why Aparajit was throwing Bani's name around him.
"I've seen how close your daughter is to her, beside…as they say, isn't she the kind of girl you take home to meet your mother." Laughing at the look on Jai's face, he stood up,
"Think about it Mr Walia, why go looking else where for something that's already in near you."
As he was leaving Adi walked into Jai's room, "What's so funny Jai? Why is he laughing?"
"Nothing really," trying to look unaffected by what Aparajit had said.
Picking up the file from Jai's desk, "What this about?" he asked.
"Oh, that is not related to work, it's custody case papers. Aparajit just brought it over for me look at it." Jai took the file from Adi's hand and put it in his desk drawer.
"So you think you'll get custody of Jiya?" Adi asked him.
"I think I have good grounds to win this case, but for some reason he keeps saying that I should get married…I stand better chance of getting custody…" Jai looked at Adi to get his reaction.
"He's the legal guy, I am sure he is telling this to help you."
"After my experience with Pia…" Adi cut him off, "Jai not every girl is like Pia, look at Bani, and she is such a simple and caring person."
Jai glowered at Adi, "Oh God! You too…what's with you guys, first Aparajit and now you. I think you better leave before I blow my top."
Adi smiled and said, "Now I understand why Aparajit was laughing." He beat a hasty retreat before Jai exploded.
In the evening Adi brought the subject of Jai getting married again with maasi. He knew the only person who can have influence on Jai was maasi. In his mind Bani would be a good candidate, this home needed someone who would take care of day to day running of it and take care of people living in it. At the moment Raashi and maasi took care of the house, but maasi wouldn't be able to carry on. Plus Jiya and Bani had become close and that was an added bonus.
When Jai walked by maasi's room he saw her and Adi talking in hushed voices. Not paying much attention he walked to his room.
Couple of day later, when Jai had come early from office and was in his study, maasi walked in with tea tray. Setting it on table, she sat down on sofa and called Jai to come and sit next to her. Rolling his eyes…she's gone give me one of her lectures again, he joined her on sofa. Pouring out a cup of tea maasi gave him the cup.
"Jai I want to ask you to do something for me, will you do it? Maasi asked him.
"Why do you need to ask maasi, I always do as you say?" Jai smiled at her as he spoke, dreading inside what she had on her mind.
"Jiya loves Bani very much and she needs a mother Jai. I know Pia is her mother but Jiya is not willing to stay with her anymore and if you get custody of her than she needs someone to see to her needs. I know there's Raashi, dadi and me, but Raashi will have her own children soon…and I am not going to be around forever." She paused and glanced at Jai, gauging his reaction.
"We all like Bani in this house…I know she is simple, but she is beautiful both inside and outside. I think she will make you and Jiya very happy." She took Jai's hand in her hand and squeezing it, "I want you to marry Bani. You married someone you thought loved you Jai…given time Bani and you will love each other."
Jai was dumbstruck…he regretted telling maasi he always did what she asked.
"Have you asked Bani first?" he asked maasi.
"No how can I without knowing you're answer." Massi replied.
"How do you know she'll agree? You'll put her in an embarrassing situation if you persist with this." Jai's mind furiously working to come up with an excuse to stall this situation before it got out of hand.
Maasi laughing lightly at his nervousness, "You leave Bani to me, just let me know your answer first."
Jai spent rest of evening in his study. maasi sent food tray in for him and the only person that came in was Jiya. She wouldn't listen when maasi told her Jai was busy with work.
"Papa why didn't you come out and see me," she went around the desk and tugged at his arm.
"Did I make you mad papa? I was good today, ask Bani Aunty." Jiya looked at him with big innocent eyes.
Jai picking her up and hugging her, "No honey, I am not mad at you. I was just busy with work."
Jai stroking her hair, asked "Jiya why don't you want to stay with mummy anymore?"
"Papa mummy doesn't play with me like Bani aunty or read me bedtime stories. She likes going out to parties at night and makes me stay with babysitter. It's boring at mummy's house." Jiya told him sounding more grown up than her age.
"Papa why can't mummy be like Bani aunty?" she looked at him wistfully as she said this.
Jai didn't know what to say to her. Jiya stayed and told him about what she had done during the day. She watched a little bit of dvd before becoming bored and giving Jai a hug left him.
When she left, Jai became restless. He knew he had started to develop some sort of attraction towards Bani, but whenever any thoughts crept in his mind, he pushed them away. Now maasi had rekindled the unthinkable in his mind…he was torn between keeping maasi and Jiya happy, and not wishing to upset Bani. He had never thought about marriage after divorcing Pia, infact he had kept himself aloof from women that showed interest in him. Instead he had absorbed himself in running and expanding his organization. Maasi too had left him alone knowing how disillusioned he had been at the break-up of his marriage.
Pt 11
A sleepless night followed and he left for office before anyone was awake, not wanting to face anyone in his present condition. At work he was in crappy mood and his staff were surprised as he kept his emotions under control.
Maasi knew Jai was avoiding her and Bani. She knew he left for work early and came home late. She let this continue for several days, until one morning she got up early and waited for him to come downstairs. Jai as got up and got ready for work. As he came down he noticed maasi sitting downstairs. Not showing his surprise, he went and greeted her. As he was walking away from her, "Jai how long are you going to avoid talking to me?" she asked.
"Maasi its nothing like that, I am just busy at work." Jai lied.
"Yes I know how busy you are. Adi works there too, even though you seem to forget." Maasi smiled at the look of shock on his face.
Patting the seat next to him on the sofa, she indicated she wanted him to sit down.
Jai knew today he was not going to get away without talking with maasi.
Sitting down he sighed. "Maasi I can't make my mind up. You decide for me." Jai admitted to her.
"And you'll accept whatever I decide?" maasi asked him.
"Yes." He replied in monosyllable.
"Alright than I will talk to Bani and let you know." She stood up, "You can go to work but make sure you come home early and no hiding in your study either."
Feeling relieved Jai left for the office.
He did not return home early as he had a late meeting. Adi and Jai came home late that evening. Jai noticed maasi was not at home either. Seeing Bani, Raashi and Jiya watching TV, he came sat next to Jiya. He asked Raashi where maasi was, only to be sushed by Jiya who whispered maasi and dadi had gone to puja at a friend's house.
After freshing up, Jai went into his study to do some work. He left his door ajar enabling him to look outside. Eventually Jiya must have dozed off as he saw lift her up. Before Bani could go upstairs, Jai left his room and came near her, taking Jiya from her arms he took her upstairs. Bani followed him into the room so she could change Jiya into her pjs. Jai watched her help Jiya change into her pjs. Bani felt uncomfortable as she sensed his gaze on her. She turned around and gave a quick look, only to turn her head quickly as she saw intensity in his eyes.
Once she had Jiya tucked in she walked towards the door without looking at him. He stopped her before she reached the door, "Bani wait…I want to talk to you."
She stood rooted at the spot not turning around. The rapid beating of her heart and the sound of her breathing seemed to echo in the uneasy silence. Walking up to her and holding her elbow he guided her out the door, "We will go to my study," he said quietly.
Just as they were going in the study, maasi and dadi arrived and maasi seeing them asked them to wait for her. Looking at Jai she said, "Bani I want to talk to you, let go to my room."
Maasi asked her to sit down next to her on the bed, smiling she looked at Bani, "Bani how do like Jai?"
Bani looked confused, she didn't understand what maasi was implying, "What do you mean maasi? I don't have any complaints about him."
"Bani I want to know if you like Jai. I would like you to consider marrying again…to Jai."
Bani looked mortified, eyes brimming with tears, "Maasi what are you saying…I was married, how can I think of marrying again?"
Maasi studied her carefully, the emotions fleeting across her face…the quivering lips and the tears that threaten to fall any minute. Gently holding her by her shoulders, maasi looked at her sincerely, "Why can't you marry again Bani? Why do you want to spend all your life alone…you are young…you haven't lived life yet Bani. Marry Jai…do you know how happy Jiya will be…you love her so much already. With time Jai will come to love you too."
It was too much for Bani, the tears spilled and she forcefully said, "No maasi I cannot…" and ran out of the room.
Maasi sighed thoughtfully; she wasn't surprised at Bani's reaction. She knew her work was cut out to make her understand. Giver her couple of days to absorb the proposal and then she'll talk with her again.
Bani flung herself on the bed and sobbed into the pillow. How could maasi think of such a thought? Marrying again had never crossed her mind. Losing Pushkar had been so painful and than the baby… no never again. She lifted her head and looked at Jiya sleeping peacefully on her bed. She was happy looking after Jiya as is, her feeling for Jiya wouldn't change if she married Jai.
Late into the night Jai walked into her bedroom to see Bani sleeping, tear stained face, one arm across Jiya. Maasi had come down and told him of Bani's reaction. He didn't say anything to maasi, but he knew she wouldn't agree. He felt relieved, may be now maasi and the rest of them will leave him alone.
Pt 12
Next day Bani acted as if nothing had happened. She went to work, but stayed in her office most of the time. Aparajit noticed that she was quieter than usual but left her alone. Rano called her to lunch with her but she refused, saying she had some work to finish. At home she avoided talking with maasi, but with Jiya she behaved as usual.
Maasi too left her alone. She wanted Bani to give her time to deal with her emotions. Jai wasn't happy to see Bani upset. He cursed himself for letting maasi have her way.
Rano figured out for some reason Bani was upset and was avoiding people, even Adi had commented Bani never came by. Several days later, at lunch time Rano made her way to Bani's office. She peaked in to find Bani sitting staring at nothing in particular. She didn't notice Rano walking in until she spoke.
Startled at hearing Rano calling her, she looked at her, "Hi Rano."
Rano perched on the edge of her desk, "So want to tell me what's upset you?" She looked at Bani with raised eyebrows waiting for a reply.
Shrugging her shoulders and faking a smile, "Nothing, I am fine. What makes you think I am upset?"
"Why are you avoiding everyone in the office than?" Rano asked her.
"What do you mean? I am talking to you…ask Aparajit I talk with him too." Bani retorted.
"There are more than two people in this office you know…if you are not upset than why are you not coming and having lunches with me?" Rano countered back.
"Ok just to make you happy, lets go and have lunch," saying this Bani stood up and picked up her bag and dragging Rano out of her office.
They decided to go to caf near the office. Ordering their lunch they chit chatted for a while. As the waiter left their dishes on the table, Rano helping her self to the food, glanced at Bani and said, "So are you going to talk or am I going to have to nag you to tell me what's the matter."
Bani's hand stopped mid air and looked disdainfully at Rano, "There's nothing to tell Rano. I am fine."
Chewing her food slowly, she looked thoughtful, "You know if you share your problems may be we can find a solution to what ever is bothering you."
Bani ate in silently for couple of minutes and than looked up to see Rano still had determined look on her face. Sighing she thought she might as well tell her, as she wasn't going to let go.
"You promise to keep this to yourself?" she asked Rano.
"Of course, I don't go around gossiping you know that."
"You know I live with Jai and his family. Well his maasi wants me to marry Jai." Bani looked embarrassed as she said this.
"Ok, so what is wrong with this, don't you like Jai. I mean he is good looking, friendly and smart. He's quite a catch you know." She grinned at Bani, "I'd marry him if he showed let me know he liked me."
Bani gasped at her boldness, "Fine than you marry him, I don't want to get married again."
Rano looked as if she made a bad joke, "What do you mean marry again?"
"I thought you knew. I was married before…" she faltered and tears fell down her face, "My husband died six months ago."
Shocked at the revelation and mortified she had been so flippant with her.
"I am sorry Bani, I didn't know. I feel such fool."
Bani looked at her and smiled a little, "Rano its ok. It still hurts but I have learnt to deal with it."
"Bani, you can still get married again, things are different now. You are young…still have a life ahead of you and if Jai doesn't have any qualms about marrying you than you should consider it." Rano hoped it would help Bani understand she didn't have to remain widowed all her life.
"I am not sure that I want to get married yet, may be after couple of years…"
"It's ok Bani. Have you talked to Jai yet to see how he feels? I heard he is divorced and has a child."
"Jiya, she's adorable Rano. She's very smart for her age. She is staying with him at the moment." Bani face reflected love she had for Jiya as she talked about Jiya with Rano. Her eyes shone with happiness as she related Jiya's habits and quirks. Rano couldn't help tease Bani, "You become best friend with daughter so what's the problem with doing the same with the father."
Bani spluttered, she glared at Rano, "Stop it, I shouldn't have told you anything."
Standing up she told Rano, "I am done, going back to the office."
Both of them walked back to the office in silence. Rano was trying hard to stop herself from laughing at the glares Bani threw at her. As they approached the building, Rano put her arm around Bani, "Lighten up Bani, I was just teasing."
Giving her a mocking look, Bani snapped "Wasn't that funny you know."
"Ok I am sorry…" holding her hand out, Rano said apologetically "friends."
Bani couldn't keep up her annoyance anymore and laughing took her hand, "friends."
Jai noticed them laughing and walked over and looking at Rano, "May be I should join you for lunch seeing you are having so much going out to eat."
Rano grinning at him, "Any time Mr Walia. We would welcome your company, right Bani?"
Bani dug her elbow into Rano making Rano winch and she just smiled at Jai and walked off towards her office.
"What's the matter with her?" Jai asked Rano as he watched her walk away.
"You should know the answer," Rano shot back.
Looking baffled Jai just asked her, "What am I supposed to know Rano?"
"Why don't you go back to your office and put your thinking cap on Mr Walia, the answer will come to you." Rano smiled at him and walked away to her office.
Pt 13
Maasi noticed Bani wasn't so uptight anymore. Next time she saw Jai she asked if he'd said anything to Bani. Jai told her Bani had avoided him ever since the night she talked with her.
"Why don't you talk with her Jai and find out if she given any thought to my talk?" Maasi asked him.
"Maasi give it up, she's not interested." Jai told her hoping she would take it as a no from Bani.
"Fine, I will ask her answer, but I am disappointed in you. For once think about Jiya, she needs a mother Jai." Exasperated with him maasi walked away.
Bani was reading book to Jiya when maasi walked into her bedroom. Bani smiled at her as she sat down. Bani paused and asked "Maasi do you need anything?"
"No I just wanted to talk to you, but I can wait until you finish reading."
Ten minutes later Jiya was falling asleep and Bani put the book down on the table.
Maasi patted her hand as she said "Bani did you give some thought to what I said few days ago." She looked at Bani twisting her pallu not daring to look up.
"Maasi…I don't…I can't…" she stumbled because she didn't want to hurt maasi's feelings.
"Are you saying you don't want to marry Jai?" maasi asked trying not to sound disappointed.
Unsure of what to say, she flips the question, "Maasi what did Jai say?"
"Bani he said yes, that is why asked you. Do you think if he had said no I would have put the proposal to you?"
Bani fell silent. Suddenly she stood up, looked at maasi and said, "I need to talk to Jai."
Bani knocked on the study door before opening and looked to see if Jai was there. She saw him standing near the window. He turned his head as the door opened and she came in.
Surprised to see her, he came and motioned her to sit down. Bani remained standing…she looked at him directly and with self control asked him, "Mr Walia why do you want to marry me?"
Keeping his gaze on her, he decided to be honest with her, "Maasi wants me get married to someone of her choice…and she had chosen you Bani. She thinks you will make Jiya and me very happy."
Her eyes searching for truth, she asked, "And what do you think? You are the one who is going to get married not maasi."
"To be honest, I know you make Jiya very happy, she can't seem to spend a minute alone without you as for me…I am attracted to you…you are beautiful and you look after others very well and yes I think I would be happy. But what about you Bani, do you want to marry again."
"Jiya." She answered boldly.
He burst out laughing, "Are you prepared to accept the other half of the package that comes with Jiya? Where Jiya goes, I go."
Eyes glinting with amusement she walked up to him, "Tell maasi I accept the package." She walked towards the door, gave him a smile and walked out.
Pt 14
Next morning maasi hugged Bani and put her hand on her head giving her ashirvaad and telling her she was very haapy. Breakfast took a little longer than usual as maasi announced Jai was going to marry Bani. Jiya was over the moon when maasi explained to her when Bani married Jai she would become her mom. She climbed up on Jai's lap and hugging him, "Papa it's true what maasi said…Bani is going to be my mom."
"Yes baby but remember Pia is still your real mom." Jai gave a grateful look to Bani, who blushed.
When Bani broke news to Rano, she teased Bani mercilessly and told her they were going to go out for celebratory lunch. During mid-morning when Rano spied Jai around the office, she accosted him and offered congratulations. She told him they were going out for lunch in the afternoon and he was welcome to join them if he wished.
Bani walked up to Rano's office to see Adi, Aparajit and Jai waiting around. Bani felt self-conscious as the men looked at her. Rano walked up to them, "I see we are all here, shall we go."
Bani tugged at Rano's hand and whispered, "Why didn't you tell me they were coming too?"
Rano arched her eyebrows, "Bani what's wrong if I invided them to come along?"
Bani just shook her head and let it go.
Lunch was noisy affair with Rano and the men doing most of the talking. Jai was sitting next to Bani and had casually drapped his arm around her chair. Rano kept on giving her sly smiles making her even more uncomfortable.
Maasi when to see pandit and got suitable dates for wedding. Jai had told her it would be private affair, just the family. First auspicious date was in three weeks and next in six weeks.
Jai asked Bani to decide the date and Bani told maasi to arrange it in six weeks. She wanted time to adjust emotionally to the situation. Maasi took Bani shopping for clothes and jewellery and Bani dragged Rano along. Maasi wanted Bani to get some really elaborate saris but Bani refused saying she preferred simple ones. They also bought clothes for Jiya and Jai.
After the wedding maasi insisted on they go away for few days. Bani insisted on taking Jiya with them to their beach house. They left two days later and spent a week at the beach house. Bani is glad to be away from the family…she still feel awkward with Jai.
Over the next few months they fall into a routine, Bani still goes to office part-time only. Jiya had started school and Bani would take her and bring her back home. Raashi was expecting a baby soon and Bani took over the running of the house. Jai won custody of Jiya and Pia didn't put of much of fight as her current beau was not supportive of having kid around.
Bani asked maasi if she could have puja at the house on death anniversary of Pushkar and her father-in-law. Maasi told her this was her house and she there was nothing wrong in doing puja's for the departed.
Jai felt uneasy when Bani told him about puja, he felt cheated that she was still unwilling to let go of her past. Puja was halfway through when Jai arrived home. After eating meal with the family Jai went to his study and stayed there till late. Bani had spent some time with Jiya and than gone to their bedroom. She waited for Jai to come up and dozed off on the sofa until the sound of the door opening woke her up. Jai felt Bani's eyes following him as he picked up his pj and went to the bathroom to change. She was still sitting in the same position as when he had left. Walking up to her he looked at her and asked "Bani why aren't you asleep?"
"I was waiting for you. Jai are you upset at me doing puja for Pushkar?" she asked with tears in her eyes.
Jai felt guilty, he didn't think she pay much attention to his behaviour today. Wanting to be truthful, his voice hoarse with emotions, "Yes just a little, Bani I feel jealous…maybe you still love Pushkar and find it hard to make a little room for me in your heart."
Bani stands up, her body trembling slightly, she looks into his deep dark eyes and words tumble out softly, "Jai I cannot forget Pushkar, but it doesn't mean that I don't love you. I know I haven't been as expressive…but I do love you. I didn't…" Jai put his hand over her mouth to stop her from saying anything more. How could he have doubts, sometimes words are not needed to express your feelings. He lifted her up and kissed her on her forehead murmuring, "I love you…sorry" as he carried her over to the bed.
The End
Members Lounge
Mr And Mrs Parshuram
Dr Aarambhi
Indian Premier League
