The Marriage Story: Ragna FF; Part-23, Part-24(Edited) Pg-131, 31/10 - Page 91

So here is my considerably long"Double Update Dhamaka" before my scheduled break; well not exactly Dhamaka as revenge track has not moved much. Still hoping you all will like it. One thing more, I'll be grateful if you drop in longer comments for this much; and dare you forget any detail! 😛😳 It may motivate me to come back from my break earlier; else it may certainly be a longer one now. 😉😃 I made it this long because I had to get this out of my system as I had already planned out some things of these updates. Added some of the masala at last minute, don't know if that is tasty for you or tasteless! 🤔 Also from next time PMs may go to only those who I feel want PMs really, who want to read. 😳

Note: Some amount of mature content.

PART-23

"Angry? But isn't she already upset with you?" Sammy chuckled.

Raghav glared at him, as if saying "dare you rub salt on my wounds". "It is not funny Sam" he said.

Sammy: "Okay-okay, I am sorry. Tell me now what happened to flare her anger?"

Raghav let out a loud breath and said: "I had to tell her the complete truth behind Pakhi's newspaper adventure".

Sammy: "What? But why? You know right that Kalpi Bhabhi would not like things to be dragged to this extent? Then why did you tell her? I mean I wouldn't like you to lie to her but, things are already not normal between you two. I would not like them to worsen."

Raghav shook his head to one side as he stood up to walk to the small corner in his cabin, where he had made a mini-temple for Ganpati Bappa which Kalpi had gifted him. He looked towards Bappa with utmost faith in his eyes and said "She is my wife Sam, my soul-mate. She knows me too well and already had doubts about my involvement in this. She asked me about it and I could not lie to her. I can bear her anger, but not her distrust on me".

Sammy: "Wow, I am seeing a husband like you for the first time who is so eager and ready to bear the brunt of his wife's anger".

Raghav: "It is her right Sammy; it is her right to be angry with me, to love me, to show every colour of emotion for me. No other woman ever shall have that right. I have hurt her so much for my revenge. Her love for me is reflected even in her anger. If she asks me something, I'll not lie to her. She is my world and if my world stops trusting me I'll be unable to live". Saying so he placed a marigold flower on Bappa's feet. He was waiting for Sammy to say something in reply, but when he didn't hear anything, he turned to see a lost-looking Sammy. Right arm's elbow on table and palm on his cheek he had a sweet smile on his face, though he was facing Raghav but mentally he seemed somewhere else.

Irritated and confused at this demeanor of Sammy, Raghav walked up to him and tapped on his shoulder. "Sammy? Sammy?" Raghav called out, but failed to bring Sammy out of his trance. This time he all but shouted out his name "Sammy!"

"What? Where is she? Mil gayi kya?" (What? Where is She? Have we found her?) Sammy said looking here and there, trying to find someone.

"She? Who She Sammy? I am talking to you and here you are busy day-dreaming about some girl" Raghav said in an accusatory tone.

Sammy sighed and said "What else can I do? My dream girl hasn't come out of my dreams into my reality yet. So I meet her in my dreams only. Seeing the transition in you after Kalpi Bhabhi came into your life, I was lost in the dreams of my love. From a ruthless Raghav Singhania who can use any means to destroy his enemies to an honest lover, you've come a long way. But exactly what it is which is irking Bhabhi? Did you not tell her that you had to do this to save your, er...honour".

Raghav: "The fact that I went to the extent of hiring an agency man and ended up defaming Pakhi in media".

"So what will you do now?" Sammy asked.

"Wait" Raghav said, "I'll wait for her to calm down. Her anger will cool down after some time, till then I'll do my bit and she'll have to bear Raghav Singhania's- tortures" he said with a lip bit, smirking.

****************************************************

SINGHANIA MANSION: -

Dr.Apara Mehta is sitting with Gauri Singhania in the balcony of her bedroom overlooking the lawns.

"Consider me your friend Mrs.Singhania" doctor said. "I am not only your doctor, but I can be your friend too, that is if you agree to this. You can share anything with me as a patient and as a friend" she completed while accepting tea served by one of the maids.

Gauri looked at her skeptically as she went on to sip her own tea, tears were brimming on the corners of her eyes; she could not bring herself to share her pains and past memories with anyone, not yet. She knew very well the reason the kind doctor wanted to be friends with her; it was to make things easy for her. The confusion and pain on her face was soon replaced with a determination which said I'll not melt so easily".

"I do not want to share anything, there is nothing to share, nothing at all; and I don't need a friend also. I am happy with myself" Gauri replied, lowering her gaze to her cup of tea, determined to not let her resolve break.

Dr. Apara smiled "Okay, we shall not do anything which you do not want. We'll not be friends yet, but we can certainly get to know each other properly? Let's just say a proper, formal introduction to each other, our likes, dislikes, our profession, family?" she said with hope in her eyes, deciding we'll take one step at a time.

Looking up at the counselor in surprise, Gauri said "You're stubborn, aren't you?"

Giving Gauri a soft, wide smile Dr.Apara said "As I said we can be friends" she said shrugging her shoulders.

**************************************************

Kalpi was working on her desktop accompanied with an open file in front of her on the table. She had just returned from a small discussion with the CEO of Steel Products & Services' regarding some urgent matter. After having solved the issue successfully she was back to working for the meeting scheduled after lunch between heads of departments and all the CEOs, and of course to be headed by Raghav himself. But she could not focus, she was upset and angry. She understood that what Raghav did was to save himself and that though Pakhi had valid reasons to try and win him over, but her way was not correct. But Kalpi still could not bring herself to approve Raghav going extra mile and defaming Pakhi, she was upset because he wasn't confessing the truth in front of Pakhi. "It has been so many weeks and he doesn't seem to care about me. He doesn't care if I live with him or not" thinking so she checked on the time and found it was time for Raghav's coffee. She could hear Sammy's voice also coming from the cabin, she moved her chair a bit, tilted her head to see who else was there in Raghav's chamber. She could see both Raghav and Sammy now, and they were discussing some official matter for the meeting.

"Now they're discussing some official work. But behind my back, both of them will again indulge in conspiracies, hmmph" she made a face and went on to check with Raghav's PS-Shalini if Raghav had been served coffee by now or not. "No Kalpana, I guess the peon must be busy with someone else" she said.

"Okay, you know na that Raghav Sir is very particular about time; and this coffee very important for him to get through the day. You should have gone yourself Shalini, or asked some other peon for it. It is one of your duties" Kalpi finished very sweetly.

The girl was a bit surprised by Kalpi's behavior then thought "Maybe Raghav Sir has given her this supervision work also as she works directly under him. Maybe he scolds her too".

"I am sorry Kalpana, I was busy with attending an official phone call. I'll go and check myself" she said.

"No it is fine. I'll take the coffee myself for him" saying so she left for the canteen.

<-xXx->

"Sammy yaar please check with Shalini why coffee is late today? I'd given specific instructions in the canteen to keep three cups of coffee ready" Raghav said, feeling restless as he was used to be having coffee in time.

"Sure, let me call her" Sammy said. .

"Ya, make sure it is three cups for me, you and Kalpi. She works more than me" Raghav said, and Sammy responded with a smile and nod of his head. He had almost dialed the number when they both almost jumped with a noise on the table. A cup of hot coffee sat on Raghav's desk in front of him and standing by his side was Kalpi, who still wore an angry expression. Raghav gulped thinking "Oh no she is really angry still".

"Your coffee Sir" Kalpi said, her angry eyes meeting Raghav's curious, intense ones. Turning to Sammy who was amused to witness the silent fight between husband-wife, she placed another cup in front of him loudly, startling him. "Why is she angry with me?" he thought.

"Sammy Sir your coffee" she said, giving him a sweet smile laced with anger, turned and before walking away to her own cabin she reminded Raghav "I hope you remember you have to meet my friend Saakshya at dinner tonight" and closed the connecting door between her cabin and Raghav's chamber.

After her exit from the room, Sammy and Raghav looked at each other. "Whoof...that was something. She truly matches you in anger also" Sammy chuckled "but why was she angry with me?" he said bemusing.

"That's for you being my partner in crime" Raghav supplied to him, reaching out for his cup of coffee.

"Oh I see, seems now I'll be punished for being your best friend" Sammy said, unable to control his laughter.

Raghav: "She thinks we'll again make some plans and conspiracies together and you'll support me" he said sighing out loud.

Sammy: "I hope her anger cools down soon. She seems very angry". Raghav smiled, turning his chair towards Kalpi's cabin he said "But she cares for me. She remembered my coffee".

****************************************************

The hours went by quite quickly after that owing to heavy work load, and soon Kalpi found herself sitting with Heads of Departments and CEOs in the conference hall, even Sonal was present there. Only Peeyush was missing, who was represented by the manager next to him in hierarchy. Kalpi managed to be alert during the whole meeting, even though in Raghav's presence she was feeling like a mess. She was sitting right next to him and his proximity was affecting her. Not wanting to lose her anger right now, for the reasons which for her were very important, her senses and mind were having a boxing match of their own. She could not but feel proud to be his wife, looking at the way he was leading everything, the way he casually let all know by his persona, intelligence, words that he was the master and King of all. Everything about him called out he was the Boss, he was the Raghav Singhania, on top of that his drop-dead gorgeous looks and smell of his cologne. Her role in the meeting was over by now as she had presented her reports, and the discussions were over. Now it was mostly between the senior officials, so Kalpi let herself relax.

She was lost in her thoughts when she heard Raghav calling out her name. It seems he was calling it out for the second time, "Kalpana?" he asked her gently. "Are you okay, you seem lost" concern etched in his voice, as he knew she was upset because of him. He'd called out her name to ask something, when he noticed she didn't hear him. By now everyone's attention was on Kalpi as she was someone considered to be very efficient and alert.

"I am...sorry Sir. I am fine" adding as an afterthought "I was not lost", as she looked directly in his intense eyes who seemed to understand what she meant to say. He narrowed his eyes, sat back in his chair, placing his index finger on his temple. "You mean to say I have lost my way towards my aim, that I have taken the wrong road" he thought. Out loud he didn't say anything as everyone's eyes were fixed towards them. Only two pairs of eyes personally interested in what was going on in real, Sammy and Sonal. Others could not make out much of this weird exchange between the two as they heard Raghav speak finally "Ms.Kalpana you may be late in going home today. I want you to personally supervise and help us in our retail chains project. You were the one because of whom we have won the contract so it would be better if you are involved in it personally and help me. Is it okay with you? I hope it is" he finished, a challenge in his eyes.

"Sure sir. It is no problem" she said and they continued with the meeting, finishing it after some more discussions.

****************************************************

Pakhi threw her phone in anger at the bed of the room she was cleaning as it was the nth time Raghav had cut her call. Her life was a mess today; with great effort she had decided to come to office and not take a leave because she had only recently joined. Not that she had much option; she was told she cannot take any leave for one month from her joining. Thus she was here despite her unwillingness and she could feel murmurs of people around her. Some of her colleagues came to talk to her sympathetically wanting to know more; some were plain curious to get their daily dose of popcorns, wanting to know the reason Pakhi gave for this fiasco. Some of them taunted her and some ignored her. Her seniors were generous enough not to mix her personal life's things gone wrong with her professional one. But Pakhi could not take it; she had called Raghav to clear things from her side. Raghav didn't pick any of her calls and on his office number the only message she got was that he was busy.

"If only it was me with you Raghav, not me alone with some other man. Everything would have been set then, even my life", "I'll not let you ignore me, I'll not let you go out of my life, and after all I have done to get you" she said vehemently.

***************************************************

"Sab maalum hai mujhe, project toh sirf ek bahana tha, asli wajah toh mujhe pareshan karna tha." (I know everything; project was only an excuse, in real he wanted to trouble me) Kalpi was muttering under her breath as she finished the last bit of work. She decided to try one last time to leave office before Raghav gets free himself.

Everyone else had left the office by now; only Raghav and Kalpi were left working. Kalpi had to go home first to get ready for her and Raghav's scheduled dinner with her friend Saakshya tonight. After finishing her work she went to inform Raghav that she is leaving. "Raghav, my work is finished. I'm leaving now, I'll meet you in hotel" saying so she turned to leave. But his commanding, baritone voice made her stop "I thought I'd told you that you'll be late today".

"Is he actually ordering me to work late?" she wondered and turned to face him, confusion written all over her face as to what exactly he wants. He walked up to her, holding her by his eyes all the time and smiled as he reached her. "It is your husband Kalpi, not your boss who is stopping you" he told her in his mind, but refrained from saying out aloud.

"But...I mean If anything else is there I will finish it. It's just that I already completed the assigned work" she told him perplexed.

"I know that" he said, pausing to see emotions on her face- of anger, confusion, love and more, he continued. "I am also finished here, come we'll leave together".

"No" she almost shouted "I mean I'll go by myself. I have to go home first to get ready and you also have to go home to get ready".

Raghav, trying to convince Kalpi: "So we'll leave together, to...to our home" he said, his eyes watching her eyes intently for her reaction, they'd welled up with tears he observed. The only thing he wanted to do then was to take her in his arms and take away her pains, the cause of which was he himself.

She didn't say anything, refusing to show him her tears she turned saying "No, not now. I'll go to...my home, you go to ours".

"Okay as you wish", not wanting to force her as he knew she would not step into their bedroom at least. Even for meeting his Mom, she limited her visits to just her room. "But you are still coming with me and I am not listening to you anymore, come".

***************************************************

Few minutes later Kalpi was in home, selecting what to wear for dinner. While sifting through the wardrobe she came across a designer short, knee-length red dress "yes this would be perfect" she thought. As she happily changed into the dress her thoughts took her back to the day before their marriage when Raghav had made her buy this dress. This was one of the first short-length dresses which he had bought for her.

FLASHBACK: -

They were in a designer store and Kalpi was very conscious of the new world she was supposed to be in. She was unable to make herself comfortable in it yet and hence had not yet chosen any dress till now. She was looking through some more dresses when Raghav held out this cap-sleeves, red dress with V-neck which ended just above her knees. "Why don't you try this?" he said and Kalpi's eyes widened when she looked at that dress.

"Me? This? No-no Raghav, maybe something different" she lightly pushed his hand. "Unless you try it you will not know if you like it or not? Listen, go and try this dress for yourself in the trial room. You'll definitely like it", "But Raghav...", "I don't want to listen to anything, trial rooms are on the other end of room" and he handed over the dress in her hands. Kalpi had no choice but to leave, she located the trial room at the end and went in to change. But it was more than ten minutes now that she was gone and Raghav was still waiting desperately for her to come out.

There on the other hand Kalpi was very nervous. Pacing in the surprisingly wide confines of room she was wondering how to change, as she was feeling very shy. "Bappa now what do I do now? I have not worn these kinds of dresses before and Raghav is waiting outside. What to do now?" Just then she heard a knock on the door "Yes?" she asked. "Kalpi everything is fine?" Raghav asked her from outside. "Yes Raghav, I am coming out in two minutes" she mumbled.

"Is it? Then I'll wait for you here only" came his reply. "Oh no" Kalpi had panicked at this and she had opened the door a bit, peeping outside "Raghav, I'll come out soon. You please don't worry, I'll come there only" she said. Raghav had given her one look and pushed the door open, startling Kalpi and in a matter of few seconds he was inside the trial room. Kalpi watched him, mouth agape "Raghav...go out" as she watched in horror him bolting the door. She stopped him "How will I change now Raghav? Please go out" she requested.

He gave her a thoughtful look from head to toe "From what I can see since last ten minutes you've done a perfectly good job in changing" he said, "Too late now".

"But..." Kalpi panicked wondering what he will do now and watched him switch off the lights. As he moved towards her and she walked back, she found herself against the wall and there was no where she could go. In the pitch dark of the room also she could see him smirking as he came to stand very close to her. His hands moved to her dupatta and her breaths stopped as she felt him removing it. He took her in his arms and she closed her eyes, his hands on her hips. "Don't worry, I promise not to see you" he whispered in her ear, the hot air tickled her neck as she saw him closing his eyes. He proceeded to move up her shirt as she found the cool air of AC touching her skin, her hands forming tight knuckles. Soon her shirt was removed and his arms were against her bare skin as her body trembled at his touch, as he could not help to pass his hand on her abdomen, waist and back, her soft spots. She'd been clutching his shirt tightly by now. Soon he was making her wear the dress, and helping her in stepping out of her churidar. By now her chest heaved with loud breaths against his hard one as he engulfed her in his arms again. She felt him caressing her cheeks and kissing her forehead. He whispered against her neck again "I kept my promise, everything is fine. Open your eyes" he said releasing her as he switched on the light and stood at a distance from her.

She opened her shy eyes to look into his intense ones as he took in the beautiful view in front of him. He smiled and gestured with eyes for her to see herself in mirror. She turned to the mirror and was amazed to see her new self. "This is me?" she had thought, as if reading her mind he came to stand behind her. Holding her shoulders he said "This is you, my beautiful to be Mrs.Singhania, I love you" as he rested forehead against her head.

"I love you too Raghav" she had said as she turned and hugged him, finding peace in his arms. "I love this dress" she whispered in Raghav's ears, tip-toeing on her feet.

FLASHBACK END

"I miss you Raghav, I miss you so much. I wish there was some way to end this revenge game sooner. Why, why is it always me?" she thought sadly, when her thoughts were interrupted by Sonal with a loud "Wow". Kalpi almost jumped, startled with this sudden exclamation.

"This is awesome, you're looking beautiful" she said and came nearer to Kalpi to check the designer label in front of dress. "Ahem, ahem, designer? Wow...a gift?" she asked curiously.

"Umm, yes, a gift" Kalpi managed as Sonal's eyes fell on a few dresses which were still lying on Kalpi's bed. She went to see them and was amazed to see all of them were costly, designer labels. Kalpi noticed her checking out her dresses as she completed her make-up and scolded herself in her mind "Kalpi if you go on doing these small mistakes, soon enough Sonal will start doubting you. God please don't let her ask who gifted these" she prayed. But the next thing which Sonal said was exactly what Kalpi feared "Awesome they are. May I know who gifted?" she asked Kalpi teasingly. Gathering composure Kalpi replied "Actually Pakhi...Pakhi had gifted these on my birthday". Sonal eyed her skeptically, dead sure Kalpi was lying as she had not seen Kalpi encouraging Pakhi to gift her anything ever. Kalpi saw Sonal's doubtful expressions and thought it would be best if she leaves as soon as possible.

She took her clutch and said a quick bye to Sonal telling her that she was getting late, only to be stopped by Sonal's voice. "If you don't mind can I ask you something? Do you have anyone in your life, do you love someone?"

Kalpi closed her eyes and sighed, thinking "there goes my little lie" but she decided not to tell any kind of lie to Sonal this time. Turning to face her Kalpi looked earnestly at her friend, taking a minute to confess "Yes, I have. I do love someone and he loves me too". Sonal looked in awe at the glow which Kalpi's face showed when she talked about her love, as Kalpi came to hold her hands. "You are my friend Sonal, I will not hide anything from you unnecessarily. But please trust me on this. Please do not ask me anything more on this for now? Please? I have a reason for not making it public". Sonal assured her and squeezed Kalpi's hand, saying "Okay I won't". Kalpi smiled and hugged Sonal who hugged her back "Thanks and thanks for being a friend".

Sonal: "Hey, no thanks and no sorry in friends, okay? I trust you, that is why I asked you directly about it. Okay? This secret is mine also now" Kalpi blinked her eyes as emotions overcame her "Okay I must leave now I am really getting late".

But Sonal stunned her once more when she asked "Is Raghav Sir just your childhood friend?" and this time she was really taken by surprise. Her eyes widened at the question and even though she opened her lips to say something, but words didn't come out. She was unable to decide what to tell her; in the end she turned back and left from there without saying anything as hurriedly as possible.

"I got my answer Kalpi" Sonal said to herself and smiled. "I am happy for you".

****************************************

Half an hour later Kalpi was sitting in her own home, Singhania Mansion in Gauri Singhania's bed-room, giving her medicines and water. She refused to go to her own bedroom or any other part of the house as she waited for Raghav to get ready. Raghav had insisted for them to go together and Kalpi had no option but to obey him. "Are you feeling better Mom?" Kalpi asked in concern "And Dr.Mehta had come today right? Are you comfortable with her?" she asked sitting on her knees near Gauri, her hands resting on Gauri's lap.

Gauri lovingly caressed Kalpi's head "Why are you sitting down, on the cold floor? Come, sit here by my side" she said pulling a stool close to her and making Kalpi sit there. "Now yes I am much better my child, after seeing you. I had minor cough problem but I feel fit now. As for Dr.Mehta, I don't need her; I need you Kalpi, here in your home, with me. Can you not come back?" Gauri asked hopefully. Kalpi looked at Gauri with tearful eyes and with some resolve replied to her "No Mom, not now. I will return only when I get my respect as Raghav's wife back; and when Raghav forgoes the path of wronging another girl". She closed her eyes before tears could spoil her makeup and cause Gauri to feel guilty.

"I'll take your leave now Mom. I am waiting for Raghav outside in the car" she stood up to go out of the room.

"I know what I made him do was wrong, can you forgive me Kalpi?" Gauri called out from behind.

Note: Some amount of mature content.

PART-24

Sighing Raghav tried concentrating on the road ahead when all his senses were highly distracted towards Kalpi. Had it not been a dinner appointment with Kalpi's friend he would have taken her somewhere else, where it was just her and him, no one else, somewhere calmer. She was wearing the same dress the moments associated with which they both could not forget. It was one of the few times before their marriage they had been this close, when he had felt her soft skin and trembling body for the first time. But still it had something too pure and precious in it, how could he forget that. "Maybe I could drive her to our farm house. She has never been there before too" he thought, and then discarded the thought knowing it was not possible. The dress was red in colour, red- colour of love, passion and anger. "I think we have enough of all three between us" he chuckled attracting Kalpi's gaze. "What is so funny?" she asked.

"Nothing, it's just that you are all red today" he told her passing his full gaze on her, her cheeks now matching the colour of her dress as she became conscious of the common memory flooding their brains. "He never misses any chance" she thought half blushing, half in anger, reverting her gaze back to her side of road. On the other hand Raghav was having a hard time controlling his passion. "How beautiful you are Kalpi; looking like a red-rose tonight. I wish I could kiss my rose, but my rose is in mood of biting me today. Though I don't mind, as long as it is a bite of..." and he finished off his thought with a lip-bite, with a side shake of his head, aware that beneath her facade of anger Kalpi was still very much aware of him and his actions; and he was right, very right.

"Can he not look less handsome any day or any night" Kalpi wondered as her husband's change of attire had made him look hotter. He was wearing beige color jeans, dark olive color shirt and black coat; his first three buttons undone, giving a glimpse of his sculpted, sexy chest to Kalpi, who was having a hard time to keep her eyes away from him and on the road, to show him her anger. "It is so difficult to keep up with my own anger. Or am I really angry with him now? Yes I am" as she remembered Pakhi and non-revelation of their marriage to her.

The way to the hotel was silent as not many words were exchanged between them, not through lips at least. Raghav did not say anything to give space to Kalpi and Kalpi because she had it enough of her wait. The only thing she'd said to Raghav in whole journey was to tell him that Sonal now knew about their relation, though she still did not know that they were husband-wife. Raghav had just nodded his head, somewhere knowing this day would come sooner or later.

Soon they reached the hotel and located their restaurant and even before they could enter, someone wrapped Kalpi warmly in a hug. "Kalps, you finally made it on time! Not bad huh? But see I came first today, I have been waiting for you since past half an hour; and you know what the wait was worth it. I see a transformed and red hot Kalps" the boy said with a big grin, still hugging her. Raghav was stupefied seeing the comfort level and closeness between two as they were very close in their hug. Even though he knew that this Saakshya guy was supposed to be Kalpi's best friend but could not help but wonder "does he have to hug her so close and on top of that call her hot" as he tried to rein the awakening pang of jealousness, telling himself there is no reason to feel so.

Kalpi laughed and freed herself from the hug "Saaks, take it easy. Don't be so hyper-energetic always! How could I be late, huh? After all this is our special date" she said and winked at him. She then turned to Raghav who was bemused to hear Kalpi calling Saakshya by his maybe nickname 'Saks'. "So his nickname is Saks, but why hasn't she ever called me Rags" he thought displeasingly as the mention of a supposed 'special date' confused him even more.

"Meet my husband Raghav, Raghav Singhania" Kalpi said in low voice, audible to only three of them.

"Hi, I am Saakshya Malik. Pleased to meet husband of my best friend. I have heard a lot about you" Saakshya said as he and Raghav shook hands.

Raghav nodded his head and accepted his greetings "Raghav Singhania. Glad to meet best friend of my wife" he said as he wrapped one arm around Kalpi's waist, pulling her closer to himself, a gesture which didn't go unnoticed by Saakshya.

"Of course, by the way you both make a beautiful couple" Saakshya said and continued "Now shall we go inside? I am starving" he said.

"Sure, let's go" Raghav said, still holding Kalpi by her arm.

In the course of dinner Saakshya told Raghav more about his background. "My grandparents expired and I shifted to UK where my Dad was posted for further studies. Then I did a job, gained experience but my aim was always to start my own business. As luck would have it, when Kalpi told me about the course of direction she was thinking to take; that she wanted to start her own venture I grabbed the opportunity. There's no one better than Kalpi to be my business partner, being always a topper; and I could in no way let go of our promise of special date" he said winking at Kalpi. As Raghav looked questioningly at Kalpi in confusion, she explained to him what Saakshya meant by 'special date'. "When we were in school, Saks used to tease me for being a book-worm and asked me out for a date every week. He thought I seriously need a break from the life of books and closed rooms. I refused every time, then just before passing out we had promised each other that when we meet with our respective life-partners, we will definitely celebrate that day. If one of us has found our partner and we meet each other after it, we will certainly consider it as our special date. So today you and me are his date" at this Raghav raised an eyebrow. "You and me both?" he asked and Saakshya laughed.

"Ha ha ha, don't worry I am perfectly straight. It's just that your beautiful wife never looked at any guy in school. Her eyes were always to be found with one or other book, even though guys used to like her a lot for her good looks and simplicity. Even I liked her, I was lucky enough that she considered me as her best friend, but other than that she didn't gave me any opportunity to woo her. Since I missed out on that I made her promise about our special date, I know she wouldn't have agreed for a date otherwise".

"Ya right, I can believe that" mumbled Raghav, trying to remember when had they last gone on a date, or had they gone at all. "Sorry, you said something?" asked Saakshya.

"Ya, so when is Kalpi taking you out for special date? Have you found your partner?" Raghav asked, unable to tame his curiosity. He was dying to ask Saakshya since the time his eyes had set on him. "No, not yet. You know my heart is very Indian; I'll marry a girl from India. There in UK I never had any serious relationship. But I plan to change this, now that I am here" he winked again. Turning to Raghav he said "you took away my best friend, otherwise I had made up my mind to change her feelings for me and marry her". Saakshya had said it very lightly, but Raghav couldn't help himself as his one hand formed tight fists under the table and he stopped eating mid-way. Kalpi just laughed away Saakshya's comments, playfully hitting him on his arm, "Oh Saks you're too much" and soon the best friends indulged in their own playful gossips, making Raghav sigh as he thought "I should have brought Sammy here with me" right now he was feeling so alone, as he was not used to Kalpi giving someone else as much attention as she gave him. At present the two friends were completely enjoying their special date. Not that Raghav could blame both, he understood that it was because they had met after years and it was their first casual food outing since the time Saakshya had returned. All other times they only discussed their business plans, Kalpi had told him about it, but he just felt alone. After the dinner as they waited for their dessert and watched come couples dance on the dance floor across the room, Saakshya told Raghav "do you know Kalpi always wanted to learn dance. But to fulfill her Aai's dreams and to keep her promise kept herself away from learning it. I always tried hard to teach her at least some of the western dances forcibly, she did learn a bit when I forced too much. But again returned to books later on, she used to dance so well I still remember. We had even won a trophy in dance competition together and Kalps had given that to me, fearing her Aai".

Raghav looked in admiration and surprise at Kalpi, who was feeling embarrassed at this revelation in front of Raghav. Raghav's thoughts were interrupted when Saakshya asked Kalpi for a dance, and took Raghav's permission. "Hey Kalps why don't we refresh some of our memories, will you dance with me?" he said extending his hand in front of her. "Of course if you have no objection?" he asked Raghav who didn't refuse. "I cannot dance with you dude, otherwise I'd have completed our special date" he told Raghav jokingly.

"It is fine, please enjoy" was all Raghav said and let Kalpi go with Saakshya and watched them dance from afar. Everything was fine for few moments until the song changed to a romantic number. Saakshya and Kalpi had to keep up with the track as Saakshya draped his arm around Kalpi's slender waist and brought her closer. "I must say Raghav is one lucky guy Kalps. You've grown up to be very hot" he said passing a gaze at her, and Raghav noticed that. Kalpi blushed at that and hit him again "You say anything Saks, wait till I pull your leg in front of your wife when you marry. You'll get me into trouble with Raghav" she said, knowing full well that Saakshya was dancing a bit too intimately with her for Raghav's comfort. She looked from corner of her eyes and she was right, there was a slight frown on Raghav's face as he clutched his glass of water tightly. "Trouble? What will he do? Hope he doesn't trouble you" Saakshya said pulling Kalpi closer. "What are you doing?" said Kalpi, "No, he loves me too much to do that. But yes he is possessive and I love that sometimes" she said nervously.

"Hmm, I can make out his love for you in his eyes. He is a good guy" Saakshya said, "but I am loving to make him jealous. After all he owes you for making a mess and not being able to acknowledge your marriage publicly" Saakshya said a bit annoyed with Raghav.

"I know Saks what Raghav did was not right, but try to think from his shoes. What would you do if you meet your lost mother after years in a disturbed state, asking for one thing which would make her happy? He got lost, just to find her happiness. He has lived an alone life all through Saks, I have seen his pains and sorrows in his eyes which he never shares with anyone. He made his pain his strength but lost himself on the way. You and I are lucky ones Saks to have a loving family by our side, but Raghav was all alone. There was no one who could be with him in his sad times, punish him for mistakes, and tell him to differentiate from right and wrong. But he didn't let his inner humanity die still. Don't do this with him please" said Kalpi sadly, as she lowered her eyes, remembering Raghav's pain which she had felt. She thought "my anger is justified because I want to show him the right path. But I cannot hurt him more, never". Out aloud she told Saakshya "to punish or not to punish Raghav, and to give him equal hurt is only my right Saks. I cannot allow even you to do that with him" she said in annoyance, stopping her dance in between.

"Wow, he really must have something in him Kalps, to make you fight with your best friend for him", "Okay-2 I accept my mistake, I'll not do that from now on, fine?" he asked. "You better not" said Kalpi turning away to go to Raghav, who she observed was no longer sitting there. "Oh no, where is he?" she thought "Saks you really went overboard tonight. Where has he gone?" she said reaching their table.

"Relax Kalps he must be somewhere nearby. Why don't you call him?" he said. Just then they heard Raghav's voice "missing me?" he said looking at Kalpi whose eyes immediately showed the relief she felt on seeing him. "ye...No, I knew you must have gone to freshen up". Raghav sighed and shook his head, knowing his stubborn wife would not acknowledge she was worried for him. He had felt a sharp pang of jealousness seeing Saakshya and Kalpi together, feeling this is not right he had gone to washroom, washing his face, hoping his facial nerves would carry the cold feeling to his hot head too. He knew Kalpi was not at fault and he never doubted her, but he didn't like anyone else so close to her. "I'll have to know this Saakshya guy well" he'd thought, "get him to know myself well and I'll make it a point to know him more than he knows me".

Saakshya was looking amusingly at husband-wife as he understood Kalpi doesn't want to show her concern for Raghav right now. To divert their attention he said "Umm...I think we're done here. Shall we leave?" Saakshya said as he paid their bill.But Raghav seemed to have something else going on in his mind "Sure, give us a few more moments" Raghav told Saakshya as the song on dance floor changed to Tum Hi Ho'. (Oh yes, Tum Hi Ho again, don't kill me for this LOL. I was too lazy and tired to think of any other song!) He held Kalpi's hand in a soft hold, telling her "Come, let's dance".

"Dance?" she asked, holding back a bit, though inside she was dying to dance with him. He looked at her with determined and loving eyes. "Let's go Kalpi" he said and pulled her along with him to the dance floor. As the soft music played on it was clear which couple burned the dance floor.

Raghav had pulled Kalpi very close to him, his arms wrapped around her waist. He secured her like a delicate climber, and he was the strong tree around which Kalpi's soft frame seemed to gel effortlessly. She was lost in his dark, intense eyes which all but made love to her whole persona, peeping into her soul and like always she allowed him to burn her, allowed him to burn with her. "I am only yours, only yours" her doe-shaped eyes communicated to him and he smiled, caressing her face lovingly. As he twisted and turned her in his arms, brushed his palms on her arms' bare skin and hugged her from behind they swayed together with music, both closing their eyes. She allowed herself to feel his breaths on her neck, his cheeks to rub on hers and to hold her from her waist as close as possible. He could feel her small, soft hands on his as she too crossed her arms with him and they both together swayed with music which was slowly coming to an end, with him hugging her from behind and them gelling into one. Saakshya who was having ice-cream which he had just ordered again and paid for, looked at his bowl and then at them, mouth agape, too much in awe of them and astonished beyond imagination "these two are enough to melt away poles; my little, small bowl of ice-cream shall vanish in seconds. He sure is something, the Raghav Singhania has this passionate side too, not just the one he shows to the world", "Hmm, good choice Kalps, I am impressed" he thought and looked around to see everyone's attention was on Raghav and Kalpi only. When they finished dancing they could hear clapping sounds in the distant, even as they made way arm in arm, back to their table.

"Shall we leave now?" Raghav asked Saakshya who was still lost in two of them. Swapping his fingers Raghav repeated his question "Saakshya, is it okay if we leave now?"

Outside the hotel Raghav requested Saakshya to come with them saying they'll drop him to his hotel. "Thanks dude, I think I'll get a cab easily from here. I'll manage" Saakshya said.

"Oh no, please don't be so formal. We shall drop you and your hotel is on our way only Kalpi told me. Come" he said gesturing Saakshya to sit, and he agreed this time.

On their way back, Raghav discussed Kalpi and Saakshya's business plans, they were planning something with marketing and advertising industry. Raghav listened intently to him and Kalpi, and gave his own in puts to them. "Be in touch" he told Saakshya as he got down.

"Raghav, Kalpi must have told you we have planned an outing this Sunday with her friend Sonal. Why don't you join us, it would be fun?"

Raghav looked at Kalpi who said "I was going to tell you" meekly. Ignoring the disappointment he felt, he replied to Saakshya "Sure, I'll certainly come, thank you". They exchanged some more pleasantries before bidding goodnight. On way home there was again silence in the car. When Raghav dropped Kalpi outside gates of her home, he held Kalpi's hand who turned and smiled back at him lightly, squeezing his hand a bit. No more words were said, no need was felt to say anything because they both knew regardless of everything they were always with each other.

***************************************************

Next day was weekend lunch-meeting day of Raghav and Kalpi and he was waiting eagerly for it, hoping they can spend some quality time with each other. It was almost lunch time and Raghav was keeping a look-out for Kalpi to return from Finance Department and to his chamber.

Even Kalpi who was returning with a smile on her face to her cabin had thought to behave normally with Raghav when they are having food. "No tension when you eat, it is not good for health. I'll show my anger afterwards" she thought when Peeyush's voice interrupted her thoughts.

"Hello Kalpana, how are you?" he extended his hand, a smile on his lips and twinkle in his eyes. Kalpi observed him and found him to be different; nevertheless she shook hands with him. "Oh Kalpi I am so happy" he said and pulled her immediately into a close hug, numbing her mind for a minute. She was not expecting a gesture of this kind from him and his hug gave her the feeling of anything but friendly as his arms were on her back and waist, pulling her close to him. "Raghav must have seen this" she realized with shock as she was standing right in front of his chamber at some distance. She could not see anything from outside, but she knew when it comes to her he is super-alert. Angry at being treated this way, she pushed Peeyush away with all her strength, clenching her fists she all but shouted "May I know what was all this about?"

Peeyush was taken aback but then told her "I am sorry, I thought we were friends. I was very happy today because I met my mother in Delhi. She recently had her knee surgery done and it was successful so I wanted to share it with you".

"Well, I am happy for your mother and I did consider you my friend. But you have no right to assume the liberties in this friendship. From next time, better take care" she scolded him.

"I am so..." Peeyush was going to say sorry to her when he felt a strong, firm grip on his shoulder. Kalpana's eyes had widened, confused who had made her react this way Peeyush turned to face Raghav. He slapped Peeyush hard.

Raghav's face reddened with anger, his teeth clenched and other hand tightly formed into a fist he almost barked at him with as calm demeanor he could keep "Mr.Peeyush Verma, I hope you remember how to behave as a gentleman with girls. I hope you do" he said.

Peeyush gulped as he saw half the office on that floor had come to a standstill at this encounter between the trio. "I...I remember Sir" he stammered, remembering what wrath of Raghav Singhania means.

"I hope you also remember our company's policy regarding conduct and character of our employees. You do get that if Kalpana makes a complaint against you, your services can be terminated, of course after due enquiry; and till the results of enquiry you will be suspended with immediate effect?"

"I...I know Sir" Peeyush stammered more. "Good, DO NOT FORGET THIS" Raghav said pointing his index finger at him, his words loaded with warning. He gave one glare to Kalpi, before striding towards his office in quick steps, vanishing as quickly behind the doors as he had appeared. "Now he is angry" Kalpi realized "why is one of us always angry since yesterday. Now what do I do to tame the lion" she wondered as her gaze fell at Sammy who blinked his eyes, to assure her to go to Raghav. Sonal too was there and nodded her head at Kalpi's direction, telling her to be strong.

Kalpi went to stand beside Raghav, pausing for a moment before putting her hand on his shoulder. He was standing facing the window, his hands gripping the edges of corner table in a tight grip. With her touch his body hardened immediately "uh oh, not a good sign" she thought. "Ra..." She started but before she could complete taking his name also, he turned grasped her by her arms and pinned her to the next wall. "Why do you think you know everything, huh? Why are you so naive? Why cannot you distinguish between a genuine and fake person? Of all the persons you let Peeyush to be good friends with you? Why couldn't you see his intentions Kalpi, why?"

"I looked at you, I was always looking at you in those times Raghav, not to the rest of the world. I trusted you. For all I know, are you jealous?" she asked, upset that even for this she is blamed. "Jealous, I am jealous? Yes I am; I am jealous when you dance with a person like Peeyush. I am jealous when you dance intimately with your best friend, or tell me I am wrong. Was it not an intimate dance, huh? I cannot bear anyone else coming this close to you" he said wrapping his arms around her thin waist, pulling her as close to his body as possible, making her arch her back at his touch. "But I trust you Kalpi, I trust you. I know you were not wrong. You are just too pure, an angel to believe others. For all I know underneath this soft, good Kalpi is hidden a strong woman, who knows to stand for her rights; who knows how to differentiate between good and bad, right and wrong; the woman I fell in love with. But why do you let your innocence over-rule your brain Kalpi. I know you love me a lot, but do not let your alert senses go to sleep, please. I do not blame you for yesterday night's intimate dance, I trust you. But I cannot bear someone else this close to you" he said nuzzling in her neck "I am...I am sorry. I know you are angry with me for Pakhi. But please believe me; I had not called media there. I never wanted this to come in newspapers. It just happened. Please...I, I can't live without you. For how long will you punish me, hmm?"

Kalpi made him face her, to look into her tear-welled eyes. "I am upset because your revenge game using Pakhi separated me from you Raghav. You are my world, only you. You separated my world from me. Don't you care Raghav that I too feel so pained having to live away from you, my world? Why do you not tell Pakhi everything, why? Why can you not give our relation its due respect in front of society?" and she broke down in his arms, crying bitterly. He hugged her, consoled her, and caressed her hair, her back, kissing her head. "I...I cannot put your life in danger Kalpi, not now" he whispered above her head, making her raise her face to look into his eyes. She was surprised to see he too was crying "All my life I have only lost my loved ones Kalpi. I cannot lose you; never ever shall I take those chances. I cannot endanger your life, cannot bring you out openly as my weakness in front of Sahil Kapoor. Telling Pakhi everything means Sahil Kapoor surely will get to know of this; and he will do everything to weaken me. He can, he can hurt you my love. I cannot allow that. Please wait for a few more days, I will weaken Sahil financially, maybe after that we have some chances of leading a normal life. I can bear the pain of living away from you, but not without you. Please forgive me" he said, lowering his head and felt her soft fingers wiping his tears. She placed soft kisses on his cheeks, kissing away his pain and brushed his lips.

He smiled, pulled her closer to him, moved with her in his arms to the table, as their eyes remained locked with each other; and switched on the red light of his cabin. She was wearing pants and white shirt; pinning her to a wall again he started opening the lower buttons of her shirt and she closed her eyes, knowing what was coming next. Soon his hands made way inside her shirt, moving on her bare skin as she shivered at his touch and grasped him even more tightly. She could feel his lips lightly grazing her ears, biting her earlobes, one by one; moving like a soft air, teasing her cheeks, her chin and the friction making her skin warm, as he moved after kissing her face to her neck and his hands tortured her body. She found herself melting as he touched her, she let her anger and pain melt in him; he moved his lips from her collarbone & neck to her lips in a soft but firm trail. His hand caressed her one cheek lovingly, his fingers caressing her face and lips. Soon his lips found hers and he took her in a deep, passionate kiss; to which she responded like never before, opening her mouth and letting him in, let him taste her inside and outside. She found herself exploring his mouth, as her fingers caressed his tough skin on chest and neck. Her other hand was wrapped around his head, caressing his head. She brought her body closer to his, as she felt his warm hand on her cold skin. For moments they were lost in each other, kissing each other's souls, pains, love and body.

****************************************************

Lying on his bed at night, Raghav smiled as he remembered his phone conversation with Kalpi, and their moments in day-time. Kalpi had told him that Sonal had eaten her head asking her about him; Sonal was not believing that Raghav could be a romantic person "How did you fall in love with him?" she had asked and Raghav had only chuckled. "You should have told her, it was me first who fell in love with you". Kalpi had blushed on phone, telling him "Sonal won't believe it". He was happy now; his Kalpi's anger had finally cooled down. As for Prem instructions had been given to Sammy and other concerned persons on how to stop Prem from reaching in time before next weekend.

Preparing to go to sleep, as he pulled the quilt closer to him he thought "one more call to make" and dialled someone's number. "Hi",(pause) "yes, I know it is late. But needed to ask you something", (pause) "When are your returning from your tour Maya?"

Disclaimer: This is a work of fiction using characters from the show 'Ek Mutthi Aasmaan" on 'Zee TV". The characters are owned by creators and owners of the show.

Important: This is in relation to the part where Kalpi keeps Teej fast for Raghav. Many people had mistaken it as Karva Chauth Vrat. I am planning to modify that part and show a Karva Chauth Vrat instead. I am not sure but it may or may not help me in future tracks. Should I go ahead with it? Not sure though if I'll do it after break or surprise you in-between.