Hearing what the man was saying he he gritted his teeth. What is this man saying. He's got to be mistaken. Someone is trying to frame her. It's got be that good for nothing drunkard Lawrence. He wanted to beat the living daylights out of him. But he knew he had to control his anger. He couldn't let his feelings get the better of him. There's no way she's involved in this. He was reassuring himself. My Astha is not guilty.
He snapped out of his thinking and looked at him with fiery eyes at his pray.
"You better not be lying to me you asshole!" Shlok's blood was boiling with every second. He reached for his collar grabbed with his right hand and pulled him off his chair. He looked at Shlok with mortal fear in his eyes. Held on to shlok's hand with his free hand. It was like the wresting match at the special Olympics. "Please! Sir...I'm not lying. I'm telling you the truth. I never saw or heard about her after that day. But when I saw the lady of the house that night I knew s..." He didn't get to finish shlok's fist was in his face, soon the door opened and Arjun and another officer barged in calling for shlok. They tried to pull Shlok. But he was in no mood to relent. He wanted to kill him. He was implying that it was her.
They kept calling out his name. But he was not hearing them. "Shlok, Shlok what are you doing man? Let go of him. You're gonna kill him. Let go of him man" saying Arjun pulled Shlok away from the frightened apprentice. But he couldn't avoid hurting his shoulder in the process. He just shrugged Arjuns' hands from him with irritation and disapproval clearly showing. "I know what I'm doing. I didn't ask for your assistance. This is my interrogation so get the F*** out of here" he was fuming.
Just then their Chief came barging in. All went quiet. "Agnihotri" he just looked at Shlok and he followed him. He towered above them all not just because of his 6. 4" frame but his knowledge and command he had over his subordinates. Everyone was scared of him but at the same time respected him the most and sought after his approval. They hated getting a "I'm disappointed" from him than suspension. He treated everyone with equal respect regardless of rank. To SSP Kannar only rank he cared was Good and Bad. A nod of approval would mean "Good job". He never addressed anybody in their fists name, it's all ways the last name. They were sure he doesn't know and does not even know who's who, and he calls them looking at the IDs or the name badge they have on their uniforms. SSP Jaywant Kannar was a man of very few words. So when he speaks everyone pays attention. Shlok followed him out without a word. He knew he's in trouble. He was like a father figure to all the red blooded delinquents that sometimes loose the plot with a gun and badge in hand that gave them so much power.
They entered an empty interrogation room. "Agnihotri! You have 10 seconds to explain yourselves" SSP Kannar said in his calm yet authoritative gruff voice. Shlok couldn't afford to even look at his Chiefs' face. He held his head down in shame. "Sir!...I..I..." The Mightyhotri was mumbling and made to look like a puppy. He was thankful he didn't decide to "have the talk" everyone's presence. That would've been a major blow to his ego. May be God does exist. May be its her God that's watching over him. "Your times up" he said bringing him back to reality "What's going on? You are one of the few that I don't keep on tight leash. But this kind of behaviour will not be tolerated. I will let this go with just a warning. But don't push your luck with me. I'm not one to give second chances. What ever shit is going in your head get it cleared and get on with work" after hearing his superior Shlok has calmed down.
He was left standing in the room alone. The images flashed before him. The things the apprentice said was ringing in his ears. He refused to believe even the slightest possibility that it could be her. I know her, she'd never do anything like that. It's not in her to do such a thing he was pacifying himself. He felt even a fleeing strand of doubt would be same as believing her to be guilty. That he'd be letting her down. He remembered his promise to her. And he intended to keep that promise.
He took a deep breath and walked out. Arjun was waiting for him to come. Sholk walked upto him and said "thanks buddy!" And punched him in the chest. Arjun knew that was his apology as well. He knew him well enough. They've joined the force at the same time. And we're newbies together with just few moths apart. He has always looked out for Shlok. And shlok respected and appreciated his friendship.
He had a glass of water and went into interrogate the mentor. He was still flustered with what the man revealed but determined to get to the bottom of this shit hole. That seemed to threaten his existence , his happiness, his life, his Astha.
Arjun offered to tag team him with the mastermind. But he assured him that he's got this. He's ok.
Shlok entered the room in his same predatory manner. But that didn't seem to make an impact on him like it did to the younger guy. He's obviously seen it all before. Shlok knew making him talk ain't gonna be that easy. But he was up to the challenge. He was glad that SSP Kannar didn't notice his pistol tucked behind his waist. He would've been deep shit for sure.
He approached the table and Ajith kept looking at him with a slight bit of anxiety. That gave him hope. Pulled out the chair and sat down.
"Congratulations! How does it feel to graduate from Burglar to Cold blooded murderer? And I can see that you've been very proud of your achievements. It does give you Bragging rights. That's the word on the street. I'm sure all the wh**es are throwing themselves at you. Tell me what did you do with the money?"
"I know my rights and I'm not talking without a lawyer" he said very calmly.
Shit, shit. All his plans went down the drain. He's no ameture. He knows what's he gotten himself into.
"If you're innocent why do you need a lawyer. And by the way your boy has been singing like a parrot. He's told us all we need to know. So hiring a lawyer Ain't gonna be much help to you. You're as good as hanged. Talk and we can cut a deal. You know you're going in for life. May be I can get it reduced. But this is a one time offer. You take it or leave it"
"I'll take much chances with the lawyer. I know all your dirty tricks. I'm not gonna fall into the same trap twice. I want my lawyer. I won't speak another word until he's here"
Shlok just got up with frustration and kicked the chair. Walked out of the room. He came out and punched the wall. He had hit a major road block. And there isn't anything he can do but wait until he's appointed a lawyer but the state. And he know how that works. It'll take about at least two to three weeks if their lucky. There has been instances where the accused had Waited for months even.
He went back to the other room. The boy was still waiting. He walked up to him. He looked down with fear. Shlok came up to him sat on the chair.
"Sir, I'm telling the truth. Please help me. I had owed money to his friend. And when I went to him to ask for more time to repay it his goons beat me up. But Ajith Bhai saved me. He later offered me the money to pay the loan shark. I did odd jobs for him."
"Like help kill innocent people" Shlok cut in. " what other odd jobs you did for him" he asked him sarcastically.
"I cased his potential targets. I would follow them. See their daily routine. He said I can blend in with the crowd well. That there's nothing that makes me stand out from the crowd. But sir, Ajith Bhai didn't make me do any snooping around or any sort of following. He himself did all the work. I asked him is it because he doesn't trust me. But he told me its was as per the clients wish. I didn't ask anything from him then on. Just did what was asked no questions asked. On the day of the job he gave me the black overalls and the rest of the gear. He did carry a gun. He asked me not to talk and not to remove the mask at any cost once we're inside the house."
He later told Shlok in detail how Ajith told him that the client assured that he'll be out in the parking lot at 8.30 pm sharp. He had come on time. They had been hiding in the shadows. Ajith had walked upto him with pistol and asked him not to make a scene. He was asked to get in the car. Ajith was in the back seat and He in the front keeping an eye on him. James was asked to do as they say and he won't be harmed. James was clam but he looked freighted. He did everything as asked. Without any questions asked. James asked how much do you want. He thought they were kidnapping him. When they came up to the entrance they hid themselves and made it inside the lions den. He told how the lady came and oped the door and how she was drugged with Formalin. Ajith was the one who stabbed him. After we stabbed him we took his car came back to the parking lot. Parked the car went away in our van. He asked me to keep a low profile not to talk to anybody about the job. He had threatened him not to say anything at all, not even to his family. And he had done just that. Yesterday he had called him asking to come he's got a new job for him.
"How much did he pay you" Shlok asked
"Five thousand Rupees" he said.
"Sir, what will happen to me? Don't let my family find out about this. They'd won't let me come back home" well that's gonna be your least of your worries. You're not gonna be going home anytime soon.
He told Arjun to recheck Almeidas phone records and trace the calls that he received and made that day. He was tired by the time the formalities ended with his official statement. He was anxious to get back to her. He missed her. He wanted to spend as much time with her as possible. He decided not to tell her about what the younger man told him. He didn't want to unessersarily upset her.
He called her up as soon as he was out of the station. She seemed anxious as well. He asked her to send her a list of things she wants him to buy. She asked him if he's eaten anything. And he hadn't. Then he remembered about her. But she assured him she ate leftovers from last night. She asked him what they said. He said they'll talk once he's home.
After about a hours time he was back. The moment the lift oped she was waiting to pounce him. She hugged him. Just held on to him. He wrapped his free hand around her. Bringing her closer. "I missed you too. So so much" and kissed her head. " I'm starving, please make me something" she looked up at him tip toed and kissed him and said "that's your good morning kiss" and she kissed him again. "That's your i missed you kiss" then again she kissed him and said " I love you so much kiss"
He lifted her up lil bit and gave her s lingering kiss. She was almost knocked off her socks. "That was a I need you kiss. And now please feed me" with that she got busy preparing her first meal for her man.
When he returned from the shower the apartment was engulfed in mouthwatering aromas. Dressed in just pair of cargo shorts he entered the kitchen and seeing her busy with doing hundred and one things filled up his heart. This is what normal feels like. This is what coming home feels like. This what being loved and being special to someone feels like. The stove was in full use with three pots. She didn't even realise him approaching her. He hugged her from behind.
"What have you done to the kitchen? You've ruined it. Looks as if you cooked for an army. Not two"
"Don't worry I'll have your kitchen spic and span once I'm done"
"Mrs. Jamie Oliver, it's not my kitchen it's your kitchen now. You do what ever" he said placing a kiss on her cheek. "Speaking of Jamie Oliver! Isn't he supposed be the Naked Chef? And you're definitely over dressed to be called His Mrs"
"Who are you? You have this I don't give damn attitude and you know about Jamie Oliver"
"Isn't it obvious. Sex sells babes. Even in a pot"
"You're shameless"
"That I am. And I'm not ashamed to say it"
He stayed with her in the kitchen until she finished cooking. He was the taster. She had made his favourite spaghetti and meat balls. A fresh green salad and garlic bread. He opened a French Merlot. The food looked and tasted heavenly. She fed him as well. She was not fond of wine. But she kept him company. She reminded him he's still taking medicines. With Nickelback doing its bit to create the ambiance, the two souls enjoyed their first home cooked meal to the fullest. He was full of praise for her. He kissed her hands and thanked her for the most delicious meal ever. And not forgetting made by the most gorgeous looking chef as well.
At one point she was just watching him enjoying the meal. He caught her looking. And noticed the sparkle not just because of the water works that was threatening to make its way down but the sheer love in her eyes. He felt her warmth. Her unadulterated love and affection for him. How could she love me so much? He would question. It frightened him. Seeing the intensity of her love. What if she were to loose him? He was not far behind either. He was falling for his innocent full of surprises lil cow girl more with each passing moment. And there was nothing he can do about it. Even if wanted to. There was no way he wanted it to stop or go away ever.
After clearing the table and the dishes were done she felt tired. May be it was because she laboured in a kitchen after many many months. She was having a slight headache as well. Shlok noticed she wasn't feeling good. So made her lie down, but she refused to take any paracetamol for it. She was glad to take a nap. He stayed next next to her. He was tired as well. Both dozed off in each other's arms. After few hours when she woke up it was around 4.00 in the evening. He was not in the room.
She found him out in the terrace on the phone. As she stepped outside he ended the call. She hugged him from behind. She liked the feel and fragrance of his masculine frame. She loved the tinge her cheek felt when she rests on his naked skin. She could hear his heartbeat. It was like a sweet lullaby. He held onto her hands and asked "how do you feel now?" She was too lost in his warmth to hear him. He asked again turning around.
"I'm ok. Shall I make coffee?"
"Only if you're making for yourself"
She turned to go back inside. "Hey! My lil Mrs. Where's my kiss?"
"For what?"
"Good evening kiss"
Without saying another word She came back and pulled his face down towards her and gave him a scorching kiss. Once she was done just let go of his face and walked off. He was left standing speechless. He didn't know what hit him. She's managed to surprise him yet again. He just touched his lip and smiled at her walking away. She came back little later with coffee for him and tea for her. They sat on the swing chair and enjoyed the cool air and each others presence. She asked about what the men say. He told her what she needed to know. She didn't pry for more information. She knew he's not suppose to discus the case with her of all people. But was glad and grateful for trusting her. She asked him about his fascination with the time. Why he keeps on looking at the time. And why he likes watches. He told her about the hostel and the five minutes rule they had to follow. She cuddled up to him. "You don't measure the time you spend with me in segments right?"
"No! With you babes, like Einstein said time is irrelevant"
"Should I be flattered?"
"No! Just love me the way you love me"
"I always will" she whispered with a sigh
"Shlok! I need to go to Church" she said looking at him.
"Now! What's the sudden need" he asked looking at her puzzled.
"Why do you look at me like that? I didn't go to church in a long time. Today I have the need to do so. So please, it's not against the law is it to want to pray in the presence of The Lord?"
"No! Not at all. If you insist...get ready"
With that she was up and away. She came back rushing to him as if she forgot something. She leaned forward and kissed him on his cheeks. "Thank you" and she was on her merry way. He just sat there happy as a Lark.
In a few minutes she was out in s light green knee length princes-line frock with a long frill that covered her arms as well. Her face sans any make up and pair of light brown flats with straps. She looked fresh like the first blooms of spring. She was ready so fast, is she for real. "My lil Mrs! you're every mans dream. You know that?" He said coming up to her. "I'll be happy if I can be just this one mans' that I really really love" she said happiness emanating from her face.
Little later they were on their way. He was taking her to his special church. It was the church he had come with his grand father when he was small boy. His mom was busy even to come to church. But now it's abondoned. After the old priest passed away nobody had come to replace him. He also told her that even though his father was Hindu his mother Had baptised him and they used to celebrate both the religions festivals and rituals. This was yet another new discovery for her. She was so glad thinking that they'll be able to go to church and pray together. Celebrate Christmas together. Attending midnight mass together. She was already thinking of a place to put up the Christmas tree. Deck the Terrace with fairy lights.
She smiled to herself. He noticed her looking at him with love twinkling in her eyes and happiness singing in her smile.
After about a 25 minutes away from the hustle and bustle. He pulled up at a old decaying building. It was indeed deserted and abondoned. "Are you sure we're at the right place" she asked.
He got down, she followed suit. She wasn't sure what he's upto.
She held his hand and took her towards the entrance. The door was closed. He just pushed it open. And led her inside. It was a small chapel. Few rows of pews. The fading sun creeped through the stained windows on either side. There was a beautifully carved table at the alter and a wooden cross hanged behind. On the right side stood the picture of Immaculate Virgin Mother behind a glass case. Left side Infant Jesus behind a similar glass frame. She looked back for shlok. He was standing outside. She went back towards him. "Ain't you coming inside to pray?" She asked him. "I've been a atheist since long. I can't change who I am overnight. I brought you here because you wanted to come. Do your thing and come. I'm good standing out here" she didn't want to argue with him. She walked back inside and prayed to her hearts desire. She felt so at peace kneeling at the half broken pew praying looking in to the eyes of dust covered crucified Jesus.
She walked out feeling light and happy. He was seated outside on fallen tree Trunk.
She came out and touched his heart and put the sigh of the cross and said "God bless you"
"I don't need his blessings but just yours" and kissed her hand.
On the way back she was silent deep in thought. He stopped near a street vendor selling Paani puri. He looked at her lost in her world. When she looked up she asked "why do I feel as if your watching me all the time"
"I am. I love looking at you every waking moment"
"Not like that. I feel as if a stranger is looking at me ever since you came back today"
"I can't stop you from thinking. And you can't stop me from looking. Let's just leave it that. Now tell me do you wanna eat paani puri? I love it"
She wasn't convinced. He looked puzzled. She felt it. She's not fond of paani puris but she didn't hate it either. She had two. He gulped down how many she lost count. He was a mess. She wiped his face with a tissue and he almost lost his head looking at her face. If it hadn't been the highway he would've had his way and she would be the one with the messed up hair and clothes. Looking at her almost made him feel like a cheat. "Don't break my heart Mr. Lovemehotri" she said looking into his eyes. " what's with you and UB40? I don't intend to my lil Mrs." Saying he winked at her. Sick SOB came in good at least once for her. He was thankful for the Range Rover being fully tinted. "You shoot me down in flames, you put me down a lot" she sang to him. "If your expecting me to join in with the next line, well babes you're in for a disappointment" he said. "As long as you don't make me say it again I'll be happy"
All night she was feeling queasy. And in the middle of the night she had to make a dash to the bathroom with her mouth covered. The next moment he was by her side holding her head. She was feeling better afterwards. He looked at her tear stained red eyed face through the mirror holding her Incase she feels dizzy. "What's going on. Are you coming down with a viral bug. You don't look so good either"
"It's the wine and the paani Puri. Noting to worry about. I'll be ok in the morning. Stop being a
Worrymehotri. I need my loveyouhotri" she leaned back on to him. "Always at your service Mi Lady" he said.
Last words she mumbled was "I love you so much my lovemehotri" before dozing off in his secure arms. It was her sanctuary.
Music Corner
