FF: Pale Blue Dot Thread 5 (Chap 27 page1 10/06/15) updated

Banner credit to my dearest darling Kalgi who startled me out of blue with her masterpiece. Kal, You know what!! You are highly magnetic!! You pull anyone towards you with your magnificent silent hunars !! Love you so much.. muahhh!!

INDEX

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 25

"Why did she ask if I knew her before?" reminiscing their exquisite lunch date, the contented man relaxed in his favorite spot, the swing, with a soothing drink as companion. Past two days have been myriad of twists and turns that brought her intimate to him. The advents helped him discern her feelings for him, and the comprehension amplified his ecstasy - she doesn't reciprocate just as an employee or a family friend... there is definitely more to it. She might not admit it straight, but he can read between lines. A gratified smile danced on his lips!!

"Jai ganesha jai ganesha jai ganesha deva..." The loudspeaker of a distant temple disturbed the serene quarters. "Oh... its Ganesh chaturthi" listening to the melodious bhajan, he continued swinging, a minute later the swing abruptly stopped. "It's festival today, but why didn't Jodha celebrate? Did she give up celebrations because of her parents' death?" he placed the drink aside worried.

----

"YES!! This should be the one..." spotting the right book amongst pile of others, the engulfed lady flipped through the pages. All those books were a manifestation of her evolvement from an amateur girl to a cultivated woman - they bore all her insight, from silly cartoons on friends to serious lessons learnt from life.

That afternoon after returning from lunch she spoke with Samyu, which is when she realized the sin she committed. It is Ganesh chaturthi that day and she ate non-veg, and that is something she never did before!! In an effort to choose something of HIS taste and to please him, she forgot about herself. She remembered it is Ganesh chaturthi in the morning, but how the hell did she let it slip off when she was with him?? True that they're refrained from celebrating any festival till first death anniversary of her parents and they didn't perform any pooja at home, but still... driven by guilt and remorse, her day passed restless.

"Why did I forget it when I was with HIM? How could I be so mindless?" The question jabbed her constantly. After returning home, a head bath, an apology to Ganesha and a pledge before the deity to not to repeat the mistake - none of them put her at ease. Immersed in introspection she rolled on bed; the state of being bemused in his presence suddenly reminded her of a discussion between Samyu and her a few years ago. It was during third year of college when one of her seniors proposed her and she refused as usual saying that she's engaged to her uncle's son.

"Its okay that you refused him..." Samyu consoled the bothered friend when they met after college that evening. "But Jodhu..." she keenly stared, "What kind of man would you actually fall for? What is your expectation of him?" The friends always had a casual jaunty discussion on love and relations, but Samyu's question that evening ignited a serious contemplation in Jodha. She thought over it for days and one fine morning she knocked Samyu's home with the answer.

"Remember you asked me my expectation of love Samyu" she showed a sketch, "...and this is it!!" The amazed friend scrupulously stared at the sketch in her hand. It is a drawing of a girl and a man, the girl is standing before him fondly staring at him and the man is smiling to her eyes. Both seemed to be submersed in their world - behind him was a halo and the backdrop of sketch was filled with dawn, dusk and night!!

"You mean..." Samyu dubiously looked up, "...you are looking for a man from whom you can't take your eyes off??"

"To an extent, you're right", Jodha giggled. "But... there's more to it. This is me..." she pointed to the girl in pic, "...and he is my love... and this halo implies When I'm before my man, I see HIM... ONLY HIM AND NOTHING BEYOND HIM... I should forget myself and the world when he's before me!!" The young girl's eyes glistened in fantasy while Samyu stayed agog. How deep and divine her friend's fascination is!! She didn't expect such profound compassion in her frivolous, care free friend.

With passing time, Jodha found her sketch and feelings so ridiculous that she averred to think of it again. Whenever she reminisced her explanation to Samyu, she used to squirm for her silliness. "How childish and naive it was saying that I should forget myself in love? Would that ever happen to anyone? " The repugnance reached a stage where she completely stripped the reverie out of her mind. Today, her oblivion before him unconsciously reminded of the ebbed chimera.

"Where did I paste it?" growing impatient with each page, she fussed. Her swift fingers in action suddenly halted as her search finally ended. Leaning back against the closet, she took the book into lap fondly caressing her once upon a time fantasy. Subconsciously her eyes glued to the man she pictured; his features are nowhere close to the man that captivated her heart, but the eyes she drew - sharp, kind and penetrating black orbs- very much resembled the eyes she urge to see every day. Bracing the book close to her heart, she looked aside and her gaze locked with her pious friend's kind eyes.

"Is this your plan Baba?" she feebly asked. "To make me realize that HE IS the man that makes me forget myself!!" An unknown weight burdened her heart, a weight of undefined emotion. Succumbing to exhaustion, her lids slowly shut.

Few minutes later, her mobile vibrated beneath the scattered sketchbooks disturbing her meditation. Presuming it as a sms from service provider, she ignored yielding to thoughts again, but a ray of curiosity emanated. "What if it is HIM?" as the doubt popped in, she quickly grabbed the phone and she's right!!

"Are you awake?" seeing the text from him, a wave of joy ripped her exhaustion.

"Yes!!" she quickly texted back and eagerly awaited the response from him. In no time, her mobile flashed with a call from him.

"Hello Jodha!" his baritone impulsively steered her to hug the sketch closer.

"Hi Jalal!" she softly answered.

"What are you doing?"

"Mm... Nothing important!!"

"If you are awake till eleven doing nothing..." he teasingly giggled, "...it explains why you wake up at 9 in the morning with a headache".

"What to do sir?" grinning at his comment, she teased back. "...late night sleeps and morning headaches became part of life after joining Regal".

"Are you blaming me or my company Jodha??" Jalal impishly asked.

"None!" she fondly pressed the mobile to her ear. "...all blame only on me!!" Of course, how can it be his fault to effect her, its her fault to get effected.

"You sound so modest all of a sudden, how come?" pausing his stroll and placing the drink glass on parapet of sit-out, Jalal chuckled.

"Haw..." she complainingly pouted. "Suddenly modest means? Am I rebellious otherwise??" Imagining the shape her lips would have taken while pouting, he laughed aloud. "Please don't put me into fix with such questions Jodha... I find it difficult lying!!"

"Devil!!" amused by his wordplay, she dotingly hit the man in sketch and stayed silent.

"Jodhaaa..." he daintily called. "Mmm..." her parched throat could only utter a sound whilst the back of her head banged against the closet. "Uff ... don't call me like that... You have no idea how badly it effects me..."

Perceiving her meek response, he assumed she's still grouching. "Okay... I accept you are the most obedient, soft-spoken, modest lady I have ever seen," he tried to be genuine but sarcasm outwitted his tone, "...Speak now!!"

"Don't pretend what you don't intend sir..." she laughed repeating his words, "I can live with the title rebellious' but not these fake titles..." extending her hand to switch off the light, Jodha continued"...sorry to say so but you suck at flattery sir!!"

"I know..." he coolly admitted gulping a sip, "That's why I seldom try it. By the way I called you to ask why you didn't celebrate Ganesh chaturthi today."

Folding knees and leaning back relaxed, she casually replied. "Till first anniversary of my parents, we shouldn't celebrate festivals Jalal. It comes in October second week and there are some rituals to be completed then. After that, everything is normal."

"Sorry for asking Jodha..." his voiced spilled regret.. "I didn't know it."

"It's ok", she smiled in gratification that he noticed her not celebrating. "What are you doing?"

"Chilling with a shot of Martini..." as she has already seen him drinking in business party, Jalal found no reason to hide it.

"Oh! Sir is partying!! Kis khushi mein??" she cheerfully asked. "Celebrating the titles I earned today... Kill Bill and Chill pill," he sniggered and she giggled. "And you didn't tell me how you knew that I know Tamil?" he asked again.

"In Wonderla when you ACCIDENTALLY stomped on that man, he shouted in Tamil. I didn't understand what he said, but you promptly replied, so I guessed you understand Tamil," she revealed.

"Ok..."

"Waise what did they plan?" biting a lip she curiously asked and his gait stopped in surprise. "What plan? Why do you think so? It's an accident", he faked but she rebuffed with a chuckle. "Two people trying to assail a woman twice within an hour cannot be accident Jalal!!"

"Twice?" the glass that reached his mouth curtly stopped an inch apart. "Did they misbehave with you before? Why didn't you tell me then?"

"They only tried without luck", she explained how she escaped with help of Divya and Jalal couldn't help admire her presence of mind. "Glad that nothing happened... Who asked you to roam alone? Can't you be with team?" he possessively rebuked.

"Arre when was I alone? There are tens of people around and how would I know that two jerks will stand behind me?" she griped. "You're right Jodha", the concerned man caringly persuaded. "...but unfortunately we live in a world that belongs to men; women are vulnerable and easy target, so please be prudent and vigilant."

"Mmm..." agreeing with him, she smiled; "I had an earful from Badepapa also last night for lingering alone at site."

"Just one earful?" emptying the glass, he sat back in swing; "Very less. You should be daunted left and right for that inane adventure. You are spoilt with excessive freedom." No wonder his reprimand reminded her of her mother. Shamelessly grinning, the elated woman cheerfully asked. "You're more incensed than Badepapa, is that why you yelled at me last night?"

"Of course..." he opened up, "How dangerous it was to be alone at a deserted site, that too without informing anyone!! On top of it, you stupidly say that you are a loner; it doesn't matter to anyone if you live or die... what about Saradhi ji and aunty? Don't you see how important you are to them? I didn't expect such irrationality from you Jodha... "

"Jalal..." she interrupted him to divulge her reservations, but then, she fettered it with great will. Sharing her inhibitions would only imbue sympathy in anyone, and she can't endure his sympathy; thence, she decided to brush off the topic in a lighter vein. "I really didn't mean what I said Jalal. I'm not blind to the boons I'm bestowed with. I understand how blessed I'm to have badepapa, peddamma... at times I go nuts and speak rot. You shouldn't consider it seriously." She attempted bluffing while Jalal stayed pensive and unconvinced... she's not the one to speak rot, when she says something, there'd definitely be a reason behind it!! May be she's not comfortable sharing it with him!!

"If you didn't mean it, it's good!! But if you are upholding something, I suggest you to jostle the burden off, it makes you feel better", unwitting to force her, he diplomatically advised. A few moments rolled in silence as he awaited her response and she vacillated in unleashing her reticence.

"If your ACP friend suspects brother-in-law of site owner..." Jodha diverted the discussion, "why doesn't he arrest him and interrogate?"

Smirking at her tact in deviating the topic, Jalal alleged. "You said you'll forget it as nightmare. Anyways... how can he arrest without a proof??"

"On grounds of suspicion!! That is acceptable, right!!" she coolly shrugged.

"Did you study Architecture or law?" the enthralled man riposted.

"Well... if the boss is so talented to speak of construction and architecture with an automobile engineering degree, why not the employee??" Jodha plopped a naughty smile. "Don't forget I have a lawyer at home sir!!"

"If you speak of talent..". the gladdened boss chirped. "I don't think the boss is as talented as his employee... apart from designing buildings she dances and draws... and yeah sneaking into MD's chamber is her most prized talent... no one can beat her in it!!"

"God!" profusely giggling at his satire, her head lowered to palms. "I did it only twice and you are branding me like a hardcore Chambal valley thief."

"Of course... your planning and execution is as perfect as them... only that you are better innovative than them," Jalal jested. "Chambal ki rani Jodha" entitling herself, she madly laughed checking the door to ensure her titter didn't disturb the sleeping couple downstairs. Fondly listening to the rhythm in her laugh, the amused man silently smiled. "Her smile fetches great kick, more than Martini!!"

"May I ask you something?" recomposing from mirth, Jodha avouched.

"Sure!!"

"Why don't you replace those engineers when you know they're corrupted?" she intrigued.

"That'd be the last option if they don't mend their ways ..." he gently answered, "They come from a baby company that hardly has a project and if we oust them, their families will be troubled."

"Mmm..." thoughtful of his generosity, she asked inquisitive; "...then is this project too free alms?? You said the owner has no money!!"

"This is business Jodha", he impishly sniggered. "Every penny we invest is going to be paid with interest. We are not immediately benefited, but after completion 70% of rent of this building goes to Regal account for next ten years!!"

"What a combination he is!!" her heart filled with pride. "Softness and shrewdness beautifully wrapped and gifted... FOR ME???"

***********

2^nd September 2014, Tuesday, 05:00pm

"You can trust her Prithvi, I guarantee it!!" the elderly man asserted again. After the last meeting at the advocate's home, the brainy heads gathered at the advocate's consultancy that day to decide on next course of action. The police officer sought answers from Saradhi ji for some of the loose ends in his analysis; yet there are still a bunch of open ends to be answered by the witness of first incident. While Saradhi ji encouraged the officer to interrogate Samyuktha, Prithvi remained skeptical. "What if she is the suspect as in most of the cases close relatives or friends turn out to be the traitors!! An interrogation would eventually alert her" - is the debate they've been having for thirty minutes and the experienced lawyer, having known Samyu's family for years, is trying to convince the young officer of their candor.

"If you are so confident," subsiding his dubiety, Prithvi submitted. "I'll go with you uncle. But I prefer a face-to-face interrogation so that I evaluate her on my own!! Ask her to come in Skype."

---

"Hello??"

"Hello Samyuktha!! This is Jodha's badepapa. How are you doing?" observing the hesitation in young lady's voice, Saradhi ji introduced himself.

"Oh... hi uncle... how are you? How is aunty?" surprised to receive a call from the elderly man, Samyu courteously greeted.

"We're good Samyu... actually I have to talk to you something important, it takes about half an hour, so let me know when you are free. Also please come to Skype!!"

"30 minutes, important, Skype..." intrigued by every word of Saradhi ji, the bewildered lady couldn't wait to know what the matter is; "I'm free now uncle, let me find a hideout, I'll call you in five minutes," moving away from her work place, Samyu ended the call.

"Who's this Prithvi?" searching for the id she received in sms in Skype and pressing on video call as instructed, Samyu wondered.

"Hi Samyu!!" glaring at the black screen from other end, her brows creased. What's with the one-sided video chat? Why is uncle only audible and not visible?

Smiling at the cute confusion on the young lady, Saradhi ji stated. "I'll answer all your doubts at the end but firstly we need your help. You remember few months ago in Hyderabad, there was a gas leak at Jodha's home?? We have some doubts around it, please try to recollect every minute detail of it and answer us, okay? I have another person with me, Asst. commissioner of Police Prithvi and you know Jodha's MD Jalal, right, he'll be joining shortly!! Just relax and recite what all you remember, okay?" While the astute man prepared the baffled lady for the exercise, Prithvi keenly watched her reflexes. To his gratification, there was only bewilderment on the young lady's face; there weren't traces of tension or alarm and his experience with criminals testified that the lady before him is indeed candid.

"Hi Samyuktha... I'm Prithivitej, ACP and friend of Jalal," taking over the phone from Saradhiji, the officer started with a formal introduction. Staring at oblivion, Samyu smiled and greeted back. "Please tell me every detail before you guys left Jodha's home and after you returned," simultaneously pressing the record button, Prithvi enounced.

Excavating the eight months old incident from memory, Samyu started with the evening Jodha left to her grand mom's village. Meantime Jalal joined the session and silently seated beside his friend. "So she is Jodha's idiot..." peeking at video chat, he smiled at the pretty woman.

"Didn't you get gas smell before you left? At least faintly?" Prithvi interrupted the narration.

"No... Lakshmi aunty, Ammamma, Jo and me were there and none of us smelt it", she confidently replied.

"Okay... you left on Thursday night, right?? Was Jodha's return on Monday planned?

"Yes... she planned to drop Ammamma and come back alone on Monday morning. But train got delayed, so she came to my home and went to office. That evening we both came together!!"

"Delayed? What is its scheduled arrival?"

"4:45am, but it came around eight I think!!" hmm... a dark winter dawn, what'd a lone woman stepping into home first do? TURN ON THE LIGHT and a mere spark is enough to blast a gas-packed home!!

"Okay... please continue!!"

"That evening we returned around seven and I opened the door while Jodha talked to Lakshmi aunty. I stepped in and was about to switch on light, when I smelt it and ran out... it was so strong that Jodha, who was a few feet away from door could also smell it."

"Doesn't the kitchen have ventilators?" Why didn't the gas dwindle in three days?

"Huh..?!!" having never paid attention to the kitchen vents, Samyu glared helpless. "They are closed glass vents Prithvi. Raghu got them changed all across the home few years ago to save from mosquitoes," Saradhi ji promptly answered.

"This might be difficult to remember but do you know if it was a full cylinder?"

"Huh..." rubbing her forehead, Samyu tried to recollect. "One should have extra-ordinary memory to remember how much a cylinder weighed eight months ago", giving up thinking, she stated. "I don't remember!!"

"You've lived in that home for three months, right? One of you would have booked a cylinder at least once in 3 months? Please try to recollect..."

"Gosh... why is this ACP back of cylinder??" masking her irritation, she patiently answered. "Its Jodha who does the booking and ammamma... oh yeah..." the ruffled lady screamed in excitement as she remembered something, "...that morning at breakfast, Ammamma told Jodha to book a new one as the running one was about to be finished... and Jodha said she'd do after returning as the agency normally delivers within two days..."

"YES!!" receiving the answer he was waiting for, the officer's lips sealed in conviction. Though Saradhi ji suspected the gas leakage not be a natural incident for a different reason, they still lacked the rationale to prove his suspicion until then. Samyu's answer thrashed the ten percent benefit of doubt they held in the incident to be a natural one. No doubt it is a planned attempt of murder, as a nearly empty cylinder cannot inundate a duplex home with gas for three days. It implies a cylinder or cylinders must have been brought in and emptied, else the smell wouldn't be so pungent!! With that being solved, the next puzzle is... who came in and how?

"You said you opened the door, did you have keys with you?" the enquiry continued with uplifted spirits.

"No I said Jodha was with me... she had the keys, I took them as she was talking to aunty!!"

"Was the door fine? Didn't you find the keyhole tampered? Were all other doors locked?"

"Yes all doors were locked and door was absolutely normal. Actually the main door has a sophisticated automatic lock. It's hard to tamper it and I don't think those keys can be duplicated."

"But there should be another set of keys right?? Generally all locks come with two sets of keys!!"

"Yeah... it should be in home as Jodha carried one set..."

"Are you sure it was in home?" Prithvi prodded. This time Samyu didn't get irritated; discerning the gravity of the situation, she seriously thought over his question. There is something serious going on, definitely; else the questioning wouldn't go to this level of detail.

"Yes... they're in home only... after the leak, we decided to return to my home till Ammamma returned. We gave one set to Lakshmi aunty to get the home cleaned and took another set with us!!"

If all doors are locked from inside and main door is not tampered, how else can anyone intrude with cylinders? "Does that home have French windows uncle?" Prithvi asked Saradhi ji and the latter nodded in a no. "All windows are grilled!!"

"May be the keys were duplicated Prithvi!! However sophisticated the locks are there're always ways to break them!!" Jalal opined. "To do so, the keys should go out of home Jalal. Jodha's grand ma is always at home... how someone can sneak under her nose!!"

Attentively listening to their conversation, Samyu traversed back in time. Where were the duplicate keys usually placed ? Key stand?

Kneading temple in contemplation, she's engrossed in recollecting when door of the conference room bang opened. "Hello miss..." a female colleague stormed in. "You said we have to go to boutique and you're hiding here?" the pestered colleague annoyed, "Why were you disconnecting my call and what're you doing here? Chatting secretly with boyfriend?" Snickering at the daze on Samyu's face, Prithvi turned off the speaker to preserve her privacy and held it near his ear waiting to turn the speaker on when she's ready.

"Boyfriend??" Dumbed by the verbal attack of her colleague, the flabbergasted lady looked down at her mobile. "Did she listen to a giggle from other end or was that her hallucination?" Leaving the mobile on table, she rushed to the Tamil speaking colleague lowly gritting under breath so that the people on call don't hear them. "You take the blouse from cupboard and go... I'll join you!!"

"Okay... but why are you so serious? Fighting with boyfriend? I always doubted you have one though you never admitted!!" the petulant colleague whispered.

"Adipaavi... vaayamoodu..." shutting her up with the two Tamil words she ever knew, Samyu shoved the colleague off the room. "I'll be back in fifteen minutes, either wait for me or you start, I'll join later!!" Closing the door behind, she retreated to the table when her uncompromising friend shot back aloud. "I'm going now, what about the measurement? Same size as the sample blouse or should I get it increased? You've put on weight these days, so size...", without letting the sentence to finish, Samyu darted out of room taking the colleague out along. A lop sided grin made its way out on the young officer.

"I know you're avenging me for shutting you up...", Samyu sorely grinded. "I'm talking to my friend's uncle on a serious matter. Got your answer? Go now and no more coming back!! Don't forget to lock the cupboard!!"

The words lock and cupboard inadvertently reminded her of the location of duplicate keys during the incident. Returning to the room in excitement, she quickly seized the mobile from desk. "I'm not sure if this helps you in any way..." she sounded thrilled, "...on the day Jo left to village with Ammamma we didn't find the duplicate keys. I now remember, I took the second set out a day before when I took Ammamma out for medicines. But on Monday evening, while we searched for them to give to Lakshmi aunty, I found them beneath the living room cabinet. We usually hang it to key stand, not sure if I left them over the cabinet and the maid slipped them while dusting!!"

"Any idea who came to Jodha's home on Thursday?" intrigued by the latest turn of tale, Prithvi inquired.

"Mm.. only Lakshmi aunty as far as I know... and don't know if someone came during the day as we're in office... and of course the maid... she comes twice a day, morning and evening"

"Could it be the maid or Mrs. Lakshmi then?" muting the call, the officer wondered. "There is a possibility for both of them to grab the keys without the girls' notice!!

"Let's consider one of them helped the murderer, in that case, how did the man step out leaving the keys behind? How did he lock the main door?" Jalal validated. "The lock is an automatic one as Samyu said Jalal," Saradhi ji plunged in. "It doesn't need a key to lock; only to unlock, a key is required"

"Uncle..." perceiving the objective behind the interrogation, Samyuktha anxiously called out. "I get it that you're suspecting this as a scheme, but who would do that? Why would anyone be back of Jo's life? Please tell me what's happening? Are you sure this is a murder attempt?" The mere thought that someone wants to kill her best friend shattered the young lady.

"We too wished it wasn't a plot dear," Saradhi ji dryly stated. "But unfortunately it is true," sighing deep, the elderly man revealed the second attempt on Jodha and the facts that could have been the motive for murder. Empathizing with plight of the recipient, the elderly man assured that everything would be fine soon. Before ending the call, Saradhi ji cautioned her to hold the information confidential and advised not to disclose it any one, including her parents.

"I can't believe this..." stunned by the revelation, the exasperated lady stayed glued to the chair. "How could anyone dream of harming my Jo... as if God hasn't taken enough from her, someone now wants to snatch her breath too!!"

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

9^th September, Regal

"Jodhu... why is boss invisible? I haven't seen him for almost ten days!!" stepping out of meeting, Divya wondered.

"Haan... he's busy with some research work in Four wheels, so he isn't coming..." checking the layout in hand, Jodha casually replied.

"How do you know??" narrowing her eyes, the sleuth pal doubted.

"He only said when we..." realizing what she was about to blurt, the absent minded lady quickly looked up to her inquisitive friend, "...when we were called for a meeting. You're on leave that day, after the meeting he said that he'd not be coming here for a few days and told to apprise him of issues, if any, with new site!!"

"Hey Jodha...", thankfully the HR manager's call distracted the ladies saving Jodha from a meticulous enquiry. "What are you going to get me from Delhi?" approaching the duo, Nina jested.

"What Delhi?" forgetful of the summit, the perplexed lady blankly stared.

"You only opted for the conference and you forgot," Nina mocked. "Collect the tickets and accommodation details post lunch."

"Oh... right... its this weekend only na... hey... who is accompanying me for the conference?" excited by the trip Jodha exclaimed, but the name she got in response bedewed her spirits.

"Ramesh from interior design team!!" A pang of undefined uneasiness rooted in the erstwhile vivacious lady.

------

11:57pm: Samyu: 9 Sri: 8 Roops: 7 Pooji: 6 Nivi: 5 Sravz:4 Sush:3 Anu: 2

12:00: Jodha: ONE and here we go "Happy birthday Priii... love you loads!!"

Following the custom, the Gand(h)i batch hooked to chatting as the clock neared twelve to wish their recently wedded friend a very happy birthday.

"Girls... we should celebrate a bachelor party before my neck is tied with golden belt...", Sravanthi quipped while the girls laughed. "...and all you NRIs... plan to be in India ten days before the wedding date!! I'm informing you two months before, so I'll not entertain any excuses!!"

"I may not make it Sravz...", Anu texted. "I'll be in fifth month; I don't think my mister would permit me. He became protective lately!!"

"Woah..." Samyu typed in, "look who's saying this... Am I hearing this from the same Anu who was hell bent on divorcing her mister??"

"Right Samyu... wonder what magic the mister did that our Anu became so agreeable a wife!!" Jodha winked. The teasing continued till Priya brought the chitchat to a cheery end with her last message. "Got to go girls before Karthik begins sulking for being poorly ignored... thank you again for the wonderful wishes and love u all!!"

---

"When is HIS birthday?" revisiting the texts of her friends and jauntily smiling, Jodha suddenly remembered. As the frequency of talks with the charming man increased over the last couple of days, they now knew a few facts about each other. He knows her Gand(h)i batch, and she knows his favorite hobby - experimenting on cars in his garage. In course of talks, they also discovered that they contradict in many facets - his food choice is vegetarian, not non-veg as she assumed, he's aloof from arts while she loved classical dance and the subject that is her worst nightmare is the fondest to him - Economics. Nevertheless, they thoroughly enjoyed their short span odd hour light-hearted chats so much that they memorized each word of them.

"When is Mr.Don born?" fearing that it'd skip from her mind again, Jodha texted and checked the time. "12:30, so a reply can be expected only tomorrow morning," thinking so, she set out to sleep when her iPhone buzzed.

"Why do you want to know?" the message brightened up the nearly sleepy woman so much that her fingers dialed his number without waiting a second. Taking a break from the study he's been engrossed in, Jalal delightedly picked her call.

"Are you a reincarnation of a bat or what? When do you actually sleep Mr.Batman?" she quipped.

"How ghastly!!" leaning relaxed against the study chair, Jalal retarded. "YOU text me at half past twelve and call me a bat. I think I should file a damage suit against you for name calling."

"I meant no insult sir..." the buoyant lady giggled, "...indeed I'm honoring you giving the name of a billion dollar hero."

"Honestly, one should practice this knack from you Jodha - to say what you want and smartly get away with it!!"

"I take it as a compliment boss as I barely get one from you..." the appeased woman snickered, "...but my trick should be used with caution and prudence, only when one is confident of the recipient's reciprocation, else, it backfires!!"

"So you are confident that you can tell me anything and get away without me being annoyed," the smart man countered.

"Yes..." bracing a pillow, Jodha happily agreed.

"Why so?" the teasing husk in his voice speeded her beats.

"Why because..." it took a few moments for her to think of a subtle reply, "You should tell me why...", not finding a tactful way to deal him, she tossed back. "Why aren't you annoyed when I give you names?" eagerly waiting for his response, she pulled the mobile close to her ears.

Enchanted by the turn around, the wise boss twined his answer. "Because you're twenty five..." he suppressed a chuckle and she understood the inherent satire, he's calling her half-crazy again. "How can I be angry when I'm supposed to be benign!!"

"You give me the most damaging names and in turn you plan to file a suit against me??" Jodha skittishly complained. "I don't think you should talk to half-crazy people as craziness is infectious and you may become full crazy one day."

"True!" a mischievous giggle escaped his lips. "...but that rule is exception to a doctor... how can I leave the treatment midway fearing an infection??"

"Haw... treatment?" she guffawed. "Sounds like I'm just promoted to a full pledged psychic patient from half-mad. I object milord and as a punishment no halwa and laddos from Delhi for you."

"What?" not getting the gist, Jalal puzzled. "Where did halwa and laddo come from suddenly?"

"Yet to come boss... they'll come with me on Sunday night when I return from Delhi!!"

"You are going to Delhi!!" his body attentively straightened. "When and why?"

"For the architects' summit!! I'm taking the early morning flight on 11^th!!"

"Is it safe to let her go out of city? What if the murderer follows her to Delhi?" he restlessly got up. "Why did you opt for it? Its not a significant conference Jodha... Do you really want to go?" The missing cheer in his tone apparently ignited a suspicion in the sensible lady.

"Any problem Jalal?" Jodha asked dubious. "When I informed Badepapa of the trip, he too sounded hesitant. Is something going on that I'm not aware of?"

"Aah... talking to this woman is like handling a two edged knife", condemning her ever functioning grey cells, Jalal shook his head in helplessness. "Why would he not be hesitant? As it is Delhi is unsafe and we never know what adventures poke your mind."

"Ufff... had I expected that I'd be chided lifelong for one misdeed, I'd have never committed it," she sardonically sighed. "Anyways I see that you too don't want me to go. Tell me frankly, am I not supposed to leave the city limits like suspects of crime shown in movies? Did your ACP say so?"

"Idiot!", laughing at her creepy suspicions, Jalal lovingly professed. "...you and your weird theories. Give a break to nonsense thoughts. It's a good conference but would not be a value-add to you. To be honest, you are better knowledgeable than the speakers there. I just don't want you to waste your time on it, that's it."

Cherishing his fondness behind calling her Idiot, the ecstatic lady pleaded. "Tickets are booked Jalal, it wouldn't be fair dropping now. Actually Raj is interested in sending me, if I drop now, he may feel bad. For once, I'll go, okay, please??"

Drowning in the sweetness of her request, the infatuated boss had to buy in. "If it interests you, I have no objection Jodha. Who else is coming for the summit?"

"Ramesh", averring to spoil her mood taking his name, she replied nonchalant. "Are you done with your work in Four wheels? Will you come to Regal tomorrow?" yearning to see the enticing man once before leaving, she expectantly asked.

"Why? Is anyone missing me?" a naughty smirk conquered his lips.

Peeved by a question in response to her question, the piquant lady hissed. "Yes... Your MD chair!! It misses you a lot!!" Adding to her irk, Jalal smothered a teasing laugh. "Tell my chair to miss me for few more days then. I can't come tomorrow!!"

"Can't come... as if Regal is his step brother's company...", welled by disappointment, Jodha fussed. "Mmm... Ok... by the way you didn't tell me your birthday!!"

"And you didn't tell me why you want to know!!" the unyielding boss reiterated.

"Uffo... who taught you to answer a question with question Jalal?" dabbing her head, Jodha asked vexed. "I want to know so that I don't forget that day to demand a treat from you, now tell me without further questions... please!!"

"If you want a treat, you should find it out on your own. Why would I say?" closing the books and preparing to sleep, Jalal challenged.

"Fine then..." nodding in conviction, Jodha agreed, "I'll find it out on my own, but one thing I'm very sure of," she gave a taunting pause. "You are born exactly at the moment when all the nine planets were out of their orbits; else, you can't be as twisted as you are now."

"What?", guffawing loud, the feted boss plunged on to bed. "My sweet idiot!!" his heart sang. Noticing the clock ticking one, Jodha unwittingly sighed. "Oh its one already. Good night Jalal, have to hit bed now, else I'll be late to office tomorrow!!"

"Good night Jodha... see you soon", dimming the lights, he softly wished.

"Soon means? Are you coming tomorrow?" with unmasked elation, she immediately asked and he fathomed the urge behind it. Kindled by similar yearning, his sharp brain hurled an impromptu idea. Energized by the plan, Jalal heartily smiled. "Not tomorrow, but I'll definitely make it on Monday. You're back from Delhi by that time, right?"

"Four more days then..." unbeknown of his plans, she innocently counted, "Yes... I'm back on Sunday night. See you in office on Monday... bye... Good night!!"

"Good night!!" swiftly altering his schedule and appointments in mind, the contented man dozed off with a sweet smile.

**********

Chapter 26 - Part 1

September 12, Taj Vivanta Delhi, 8:45am

"Haa.. had breakfast in room as I can't tolerate that Fevicol Pri...", picking up hand bag and keys, Jodha hastily checked herself once again in the mirror before cascading out. "There was a time when I felt guilty for lying to him, now I regret for being guilty. He's just intolerable these days, trying to be close, exercise rights on me that never existed. I'm sick of his presence yaar - breakfast, lunch, dinner - wherever I went he followed the whole day. Thank god he spared me with washroom."

"Actually there's a better way to handle such people Jo," commiserating with her pal's plight, Samyu smartly advised. "Get his card swiped for your jumbo shopping. He's gone for once and ever!!"

Locking the door and heading towards the elevator, Jodha giggled. "That'd be a punishment to me Samyu. Even if he's ready to spend lakhs, I can't bear him for a minute more."

"Hmm... try to avoid him as best as you can. Now back to our actual business. Jo, did you add shawls and blankets to the list? And dare you miss anything, forget landing in Bangalore!!" Priya daunted. Briskly pacing towards the elevator, the immersed lady failed noticing a man that stepped of a suite and silently shadowed her.

"Don't worry madam, you made me mug it so severely that I may forget Architecture but not this list", waiting for the elevator, Jodha griped. "And don't you think fur blankets are too much for Chennai's winter? I mean if it is Kashmir or Delhi it is understandable, but why for Chennai Pri? Only to sweat at night time, as if sweating during day is not sufficient." While Jodha's nose scrunched at imagining sweating under a thick fur blanket, Samyu and Priya chuckled in unison. Espying an exotic variance in her guise, an appreciative smile crept over the observer's lips.

"Oh... sweat reminds me of an important item I forgot to mention Jo", the enthusiastic friend screamed in delight.

"Important item?" horrified by the flood of items to come, Jodha gasped. "What is it now? Red Fort or Parliament??" Tickled by the quip, the man behind her promptly muted his mouth before his giggles alerted her.

"It'd be good to have Red fort, but unfortunately Chennai can't accommodate it dear," shamelessly grinning, Priya generously added. "And Samyu... the items I'm going to say will make you jump in joy. They are sweets from Ghantewala!!"

"What wala?" Jodha and Samyu groaned at the same time.

"Ghantewala in Chandini chowk... the oldest and most renowned sweet shop in Delhi. I tasted them during college tour to Delhi, awesome taste dear. Your trip is incomplete without a visit to Ghantewala!!"

"Oh... if they're so special how can we miss then? Jo... two kgs for me too...", Samyu happily ordered ignoring the diet she was on.

"Why just two kgs darling?" veiling sarcasm, Jodha feigned sweetness. "I'll send you two kgs plus hundred grams!! Send two kilos to Lakshmi aunty's daughter as she's pregnant and rest of 100grams is ALL YOURS. Eat them till you're tired of sweets, okay!!" Jodha gritted and continued chiding. "Look at your size... top to bottom, all dimensions increased by two inches in these six months and as if KFC and Paradise are not enough, now you want Ghantewala to add to your size; will kill you if you think of even smelling sweets."

"Please.. only for this time", whilst Samyu tried to sell her charms with fake promises on calorie control, the entertained man found it extremely unmanageable to remain muted. After all, the woman before him is too adorable to resist.

"Hello Ms. Foodie, remember the white and yellow checked shirt we together bought a year back?? I fit in it even today and when you fit back into yours, talk to me of sweets. Pri... tell me names of sweets and quantity!!"

"Sohan halwa... One kg for me and for Lakshmi aunty's choti also you take one kg, no other halwa matches its taste. I'm sure she'd love it!!"

"Okay... and?"

"Moti choor laddoo... one kg..."

"Jodhuu...", swallowing the oozing water, Samyu slowly implored. Bluntly overlooking the disturbing pleading, Jodha swiftly added the items to her list. "That's all??"

"No... Patisa one kg, Mesu pak one kg and Kaju katli one kg... that's all!!" Jodha's fingers that were busily typing the names ceased their job for a moment. Blankly staring at the phone, she asked bewildered. "Are these to eat or to open a shop in Chennai?"

Laughing loud, Priya cunningly winked. "What to do darling, being an out-of-affiliation daughter-in-law, I need to resort to chota-mota bribery to be in good looks of Karthik's relatives. You don't know the magic a pack of sweets can do. My list ends here... and yeah... do send me a pic of yours... it's been so long since I saw you in jeans and shirt!!"

"What's new in me to see?? By the way is Ghantewala specialist in Rasmalai too?" with obvious liking for the sweet, Jodha excitingly asked.

"Oy Rasmalai ki deewani," the piqued friend desperately yelled. "If no halwa for me, no Rasmalai for you either. Swear on me...", throwing Jodha into a fix, Samyu compelled.

"Why do you fret when your tiny quota includes a pinch of halwa Samyu?" with a conniving snicker, Jodha jested checking the time. "You enjoy your 100grms and I'll enjoy a dozen rasmalais. And now, I got to go, only ten minutes to catch the bus, will call you in the evening, bye!!"

"Jo... selfie...", Priya reminded again before the call got disconnected.

Awaiting the elevator, Jodha tucked earphones into bag and positioned the iPhone for a selfie, and realized that a man was standing very intimate to her with his head inclined as if trying to share the frame. Prior to her eyes focused on his face, the womanly reflex made her tremble - her jaw dropped in tension and the phone too. Wildly swirling around, she drifted away from him, close to the wall.

Chuckling at her horrendous reaction, Jalal bent to pick up the poor prey. "I never knew my face is so scary. And you seem to have great animosity with phones, especially the iPhones!!" By the time he stood straight smiling to her, she was barely a few centimeters apart from him. The flabbergasted woman already recovered from the reflex and recognized the man before her.

"Jalal..." A cry of excitement, a surge of ecstasy and a wave of affection seeped her torso so profusely that her arms advanced for an embrace, but the sagacious senses promptly alarmed inflicting her hands to linger in air unsure of the right place to land them. Electrified by her ecstasy, Jalal locked the mobile in her right hand and enclosed it in his firm grip. "How are you miss?" he joyously raised a brow.

"On verge of heart attack," idiotically smiling at the mesmerizing man, her fingers curled over his'. "When did you come? You didn't tell me you were coming? Aree... last night also you called me, you could have hinted me then at least?"

"Surprise!!" relishing her warm touch on his fingers, Jalal winked. Seeing her after a long gap is a bliss, seeing her thrilled after a long gap is bliss-bliss, and seeing her so close in a cute outfit, thrilled and pouting, after a long gap is bliss-bliss-plus.

"Surprise?" her free left hand complainingly hit his arm. "One day, you'll take my breath out with your surprises." Though she playfully remarked, the comment didn't go well with boss. He was about to object her statement when a group of people appeared in the hallway wreaking the couple to release the locked hands and stand apart.

"Had breakfast?" stepping into elevator Jalal asked.

"Yes!!" intently pressing close button to forbid entry of the group, Jodha replied. "By the way, I knew you were busy with research", pointing to his grown hair, she smiled. "...but I didn't expect you to be too busy to have a haircut!!" Taking a place beside him, she slyly squinted eyes. "Or is it that our MD didn't receive his salary this month? Seeking some donation?"

"If you are so willing to donate how can I deny?" with a naughty smirk, Jalal riposted. "I've an appointment with Mr.Jawed Habib tomorrow, and I'd be indebted to you forever for paying the bill."

"Jawed Habib?" her eyes expanded in fake terror.

"Yes...", he sniggered in assertion.

"Means one month salary," drawing a deep breath, she secretly whispered making her face as pitiable as possible. "You don't know Jalal, my boss is a big kanjoos. I'm paid only peanuts not cashew nuts."

"Poor you..." twitching his lips, Jalal feigned sympathy, "...and how kind of you to reject a hike though you're paid peanuts!!"

"Haan... how can I burden a man who couldn't pay himself?? I'm too benevolent na," chirpily blinking eyes, she boasted. "Anyways, this long hair look isn't that bad you see. I don't think you should go for a cut, but these dark circles...", indicating at his tired eyes, Jodha generously suggested. "...they need a pack. I can help you with that!!"

"Aah...", letting out an exhausted sigh, Jalal shook his head. "Don't remind me of dark circles Jodhaa... all credit to a lady bug that bit me with late night texts and calls!!"

"Hawww...", darting daggers at his devious smile, she was about to ferociously react when her mobile rang and the elevator halted. "In lobby, I'm coming, two minutes...", she answered the over enthusiastic colleague who reminded her of the bus time.

"Ok boss, my bus is ready... how are you coming? Cab??" en route to exit, she queried.

"No... Personal car!!"

Turning to him surprised, her pupils widened. "Don't tell me you got your Jaguar with you all the way from Bangalore!!" Grinning at her expressions, the amused man elucidated. "No... It's a friend's car. Will be in my possession till I return and tell Ramesh not to wait, I'll take you to the conference."

"No way sir... if you accompany me to the conference, that news will reach Bangalore at lightning speed and snatch away sleep of some poor souls," impishly tittering at the confused man, Jodha remarked. "Bye for now... see you there!!" she trekked a few steps and hurriedly came back banging her head.

"What happened?" advancing to her, Jalal asked perplexed.

"I forgot something very important...", she seriously stated closely standing to his right so that her next act is obscured from fellow residents whilst Jalal looked on puzzled. "To demonstrate you how a ladybug actually bites," digging her nails into his arm, she snickered and swiftly disappeared much before the pain settled on his muscles beneath the shirt.

"Idiot...", rubbing his arm, the smitten man fondly cursed and the vivacious lady turned back. "I knew you'd say that...", her buoyant wink conveyed!!

9:35am, IHC complex, Lodhi Road

"Peddamma, seminar would have started, I'll call you later, ok?" Adding sweaters-for-Ranga's-kids to the list, Jodha winded the call and returned to hall.

"Wow... who's she??" silently occupying a vacant seat, she admired the beautiful young executive. First half of second day of summit is designated to entrepreneurs' recommendations on eco-innovations and Jodha, having stepped into the auditorium five minutes late, missed the introduction of the speaker. While Jodha's eyes searched for the man of her interest, the obsessed male colleague, seated in the back row, gawked at her in desire. He continued reeling her captivating fragrance that suffocated him during the ten minutes ride to venue. How he wished she sat next to him in bus and now!! Spotting Jalal amidst other entrepreneurs towards front of the auditorium, Jodha happily smiled shifting her gaze to the speaker.

The young executive authoritatively spoke about weaving contemporary European construction into Indian architecture and proposed the concept of developing low-elevated economic buildings that are less disastrous during calamities like earth quakes and cyclones. "Thanks to TERI (The energy and Resources Institute) for this exclusive opportunity and I'd be glad answering your questions, dear audience...", with an attractive smile, she gracefully concluded the presentation and the auditorium echoed with a huge round of applause. Once the seminar hall silenced, a few hands rose and a five-minute interaction with the speaker followed.

"Hope I answered every one, only two more minutes to go, so..." stylishly peeking at her watch, the young lady announced, but forbidding her from relinquishing the podium, a hand rose from farthest end of the hall.

"I wouldn't take more than a minute...", a sweet voice echoed as a volunteer handed over her the mike. Perceiving the voice, the enticed boss who was busily talking to co-entrepreneurs instantly turned back. "I loved your idea of designing less tall, disaster safe buildings, and I congratulate you for your consideration on low economy classes," Jodha honestly complimented and the executive acknowledged it with a proud nod. "...but I truly didn't get how this ideology suits a highly populated country like India. I see that you are trying to import a more-space-less-people situation of most of the European countries into a country of exactly the opposite nature."

"She raised the same point we're just discussing Jalal," a mid-aged man beside Jalal whispered and the impressed boss's heart filled with pride for his beloved employee.

"Our nation's situation demands creating more homes in less space, so developing short buildings, I mean, not more than two or three floored apartments as you suggested doesn't seem appropriate. Also you proposed to design buildings ranging from studio size to spacious 3 bhk, so that all economic classes are benefited. But with inflated land prices, a studio apartment in a three-floored building would value as much as a 2 bhk in six-floored building in same locality and that does no good to buyer or seller. So, I opine this proposal needs to be amended to practically befit our country's necessities. Thank you," unbeknown of the impact of her comments on the speaker, Jodha returned the mike and restored to her seat with an innocent smile.

All the heads that turned to back of auditorium a while ago now shifted towards the podium seeking a response from the blanched lady executive. By George, she didn't expect that her hours of contemplation and glorious presentation would be challenged by a seemingly novice lady, that too, in the last minute of her win. Her gaze impulsively drifted to the entrepreneurs' lounge and her nerves constricted observing a teasing smirk on the man whose presence bothered her ever since she saw him in the hall.

Inherently cursing her team for not thinking in the questioner's perspective, she strewed a covering smile. When a defeat is inevitable, accept it gracefully - a lesson learnt from experience hinted her how to tackle the situation. "That's a thoughtful perspective miss," she dignifiedly nodded. "And I suppose the purpose of proposing our idea to an intellectual audience is best served today as we got some valuable inputs. We'd gladly consider your feedback, and redevelop our proposal. Thank you all and TERI once again for this opportunity!!"

------

"Hello miss...?!!" perceiving a voice right behind her, Jodha looked back.

"Hi... I'm Jodha," daintily smiling to the executive, she introduced herself. Obviously, the former's brows squeezed at the strange name and Jodha, being used to such reactions simply smiled.

"Nice meeting you Jodha," elegantly forwarding a hand, the lady asked inquisitive. "Are you an architect? Which company are you from?"

"Yes, I'm an architect and works for Regal Infra developers Bangalore!! Sorry I missed your introduction during seminar, you are??" shaking hand with her, Jodha curiously asked.

"Woah!! Could anything be more insulting than this?? A mere employee of HIS company refuted my concept in HIS presence...", a burning sensation stirred her heart.

"My introduction wouldn't interest you as much as my offer would do Jodha," masking her resentment, the lady smirked raising a brow and Jodha's eyes skeptically narrowed. "What'd you say if I offer you a senior architect position in my company with a 100% hike to your current pay?"

Taken aback by the undreamt deal, Jodha glared stupefied. Is she crazy? An offer with 100 percent hike within a minute of first meeting!! How absurd!! Intrigued by the ladies, the mid-aged businessman who casually stopped by the coffee table attentively lent an ear to their conversation.

"I'd say I'm honored by your offer," trying to be as cordial as possible, Jodha replied. "...but very sorry that I can't accept it. I'm happy with my job and I have no plans of change".

"I must say it's an unwise decision Jodha," offended by the former's denial, the lady averred. "You're rejecting a life boat for a sinking ship!!"

"Sinking ship!!" Jodha's smile vanished. "Who's she? Is she referring to Regal's financial crisis? How does she know??

"Sorry I didn't get you...", prior to aptly responding, Jodha reiterated, only to confirm the lady's motive.

"As an employee you might be oblivious of your company's performance, but let me caution you," the stranger keenly leant forward. "It's a sinking ship, get out of it as soon as possible!!" With that assertion, the erstwhile gentleness in Jodha's voice completely disappeared. "It might be a sinking ship," she sternly stared with a confident smirk. "But we trust our captain. He's capable enough to rescue himself and the team. Thanks for your advice and please excuse me now." Noticing the executive's hardened face from corner of his eyes, the mid-aged man snickered.

"How loyal!! You are going to soon repent your decision miss," the lady sarcastically forewarned and the retreating woman turned back. "Repent??" Jodha guffawed. If only this lady knew the special bonding between her employer and she. "Let's see!!" with an instigating wink, the gaily woman left the infuriated lady behind.

"What is the name of the lady executive that spoke in morning's session?" approaching a newly acquainted female associate, Jodha enquired.

"Aaliya khan!!" the other lady replied and Jodha swiftly turned back. "Aaliya!!" watching the beautiful woman is business formals, her heart cringed. "This stunning petite stylish lady is Jalal's ex-wife!! Oh God!!" Her womanly instinct drew an instant comparison and to her distress, the result made her cringe more. "Baba," she silently took her anger out on the voiceless friend. "You send Jalal to make me happy, and then you send his beautiful ex-wife to pour water on it. Huh... top of it you make her so glamorous?? Wonder what Jalal's reaction was after seeing her? How to know?" she worriedly looked around.

------

"Away for shopping post lunch... see u in evening!!" as the session broke for lunch, Jodha texted Jalal. Five minutes later, instead of a return message, the man himself appeared before her. "I'm joining a friend for lunch," he informed. "Will be back in two hours. Wait till then, I'll take you out!!"

"He seems very normal as if unaffected by Aaliya's presence!!" a wave of relief blew off her fuzzy anxiety. "Okay...", she happily nodded in yes and then immediately changed the direction of nod. "Oh no... I have a Hanuman tail lengthy list to shop. It'd take hours and you'll be damn bored Jalal. I'll manage myself and yes, I'll try to be back before it gets dark, ok??"

"Done??" unlocking his phone, Jalal asked unperturbed. "Finish your lunch and wait," having delivered the order, the unyielding man coolly left.

"What!!" Jodha stared agape at the retreating man. "Why is it always a one-sided decision with him?" she helplessly sighed. "And you... you send all complicated and weird cases into my life," realizing its no use angering with her pious friend as HE only loves troubling her, she quickly verified the list her friends' ordered. To her luck, it contained no items that'd have thrown her into embarrassment when Jalal is by her side.

6:45pm

"Hey... one sec... hold these too please," transferring the shopping bags in her hands to the already inundated man, Jodha screamed. As a testimony to their three hours shopping in a heavily crowded chowk, they appeared withered yet unexhausted. The experience left Jodha surprised at his patience and Jalal impressed at her speed. Had it been his cousins or Sara or other women he knew, it'd have taken double the time to shop all items in the list. And to her, he's the most patient man she has seen till date because running behind her to every shop without letting a sigh or frown is something she hasn't seen even in her father or uncles.

"What??" trying to balance the excess stuff, Jalal asked mystified.

"I might not get a chance to see you like this again", taking her phone out, she captured his picture. "What are you going to do with that pic?" dumping the bags in boot, Jalal doubted. "Mmm...", adoring the cute mystic expression on his face, her eyes cunningly narrowed. "Will post in FB with a caption...", she paused thinking. "Hey folks.. this is what keeps boss away from Regal!!"

Brusquely snatching her phone, he took her side while she stood agog. "Better than that...", clicking a selfie with the dazed lady, he returned the piece. "...would be this. Post it with the same caption!!" he teasingly challenged moving to driving side.

"What do you mean?" she blocked his way. "I keep you away from Regal? How??"

"Of course," he readily agreed. "You hit me, question me, advises not to be prejudiced and top of it threaten me with a resignation as if you are MD and I'm your subordinate. Fearing you, I gave up Regal."

"How sad!!" she sardonically sympathized laughing at his complaints. "I didn't realize I was so intimidating. Anyways, better late than never boss; from Monday, I'll give up Regal and you'll be back. And as a punishment for scaring you..," she looked in direction of aroma that reached her nose. "I'll give you a gol gappe treat now, come!!"

"There?" he uncomfortably frowned at the soiled leaf bowls four feet away from the jam-packed stall. "Yes...", shrugging coolly she moved ahead. "...unfortunately Tajs and Oberois don't sell gol gappe and even if they do, they don't taste like in these road side stalls!!"

Inadvertently, her remark reminded him of a picture that was circulated on Facebook; quickly searching for it, he followed her. "Bhaiyya two plates...", making herself visible and audible amidst the crowd, she placed the order. "Mmm..." inhaling the aroma, she turned to Jalal. "This smell makes my stomach growl."

"Madam Onions? Sir?" handing over two leaf bowls to Jodha, the chat-wala asked. Nodding in yes, she looked at Jalal who's busy in surfing. As he signaled her to wait, Jodha responded on his behalf. "Only one bhaiyya, he'll take time!!"

"One sec Jodha...", Jalal propped his mobile above her hand that braced a water-dipped-puri. "Want to know the secret behind taste of street side gol gappe?" watching her contracting body and averring brows, he sniggered. It was a picture of an untidy man kneading the poori dough with HIS FEET!! Apparently, her fingers dropped the puri back to bowl and her eyes drifted between the picture and the bowl and then to Jalal.

"You're so cruel", curbing the temptation, she dumped the bowl into bin.

"I know," he stylishly admitted.

"So wicked," she added.

"Thank you," he acknowledged.

"You made me abandon Panipuri for a lifetime," taking a ten rupees note out, she sulked. "Wait," clubbing a five hundred note with her ten rupees note, Jalal offered it to the chat-wala. "Buy a bigger bin and keep the ambience tidy, you'll make more business. By the way your food smells excellent," he winked with a smile while Jodha and the stall owner glared agape.

----

"One Pav bhaji for me, for you??"

"Why Pav bhaji?" Jalal wondered. "You can safely eat your favorite panipuri here Jodha. This is a famous chat bhandar in Chandini chowk and hygienic too. I showed that pic only to stop you from eating at stall as the water they use is often contaminated."

"Uhu... no," Jodha looked unconvincing. "Not today in the least. I'll try later when that pic wipes out of memory."

"Trust me and delete that pic from mind right now, else you'll miss the tastiest gol gappe of Delhi," he softly persuaded blinking his eyes and she had to buy in.

Subsiding her aversion, Jodha took a first bite in and Jalal dotingly asked. "How's it?" Surrendering to the taste, her eyes momentarily closed - the raised brows delivered response on behalf of filled mouth and the gratified boss smiled in pleasure. "Taste it," she offered the second one to him and he gently refused. "I'm not hungry and I have to join others for dinner Jodha."

"Just dinner?" she prodded and he chuckled. "Drinks are inseparable from dinner miss. They don't need a special mention."

"Of course," she sheepishly nodded. "...and what is THIS PANI's taste before THAT PANI!!" Grinning at her satire, he picked up a puri. "It's hard to stop with one Jodha and if I eat here I can't eat at dinner. That's why I refused." The serving man being too adept in his work, refilled Jodha's bowl at jet speed and the couple, forming a team, matched the former's pace.

"One more plate?" Jalal asked, but Jodha denied saying she's full. After paying the chat-wala, he's about to tuck the wallet into pocket when Jodha stopped him. "Wait... give it to me." As he skeptically handed over, she loaded the wallet with a bundle of thousand rupee notes and forwarded it to him. "I didn't argue when you swiped your card in shops, now, you're not going to argue," she lovingly warned.

"Fine... have it yourself," heeding to her warning he didn't argue, but didn't accept the amount either. "What about your cards?" she ran behind the cool man walking towards the parked vehicle. "I'll call you if I were to pay anyone. You come and swipe," he smartly plopped a solution.

"Making me your ATM?" she giggled accepting the challenge. "I'm ready!!"

8:30pm

"Don't worry... he's very skillful in this task, he knows how to tactfully retrieve information. I explained him where to start the enquiry from; actually I've to go to Hyderabad on Monday, I'll introduce him to Samyuktha then," Prithvi said.

"Hope we get a clue as soon as possible," spraying the cologne behind ears, Jalal wished. "Is everything fine there? No act of suspicion?" Abdul intrigued.

"Nothing as of now!!"

"I don't think there'd be any attempt so soon Jalal. It's been barely two weeks since the last incident and the murderer would play safe because he planned to portray it a natural death. Back to back attempts would only ignite suspicion", the canny officer opined.

"But how to...", Jalal's question was interrupted by a knock on the door. Perceiving that it is Jodha, he promptly disconnected the call before welcoming her in.

"Ready to go?" entering his suite, she cutely smiled. A fresh shower ripped off fatigue and resurrected the radiance of her skin.

"Almost!!" he answered pulling the cuffs to elbows and with great effort she drifted her gaze from his arms.

"Without wallet?" her arms crossed behind.

"Yes, as I said I'll call you to pay, come to The Lodhi then", picking up car keys, he announced.

"What if I don't come?" she instigated. "I'll say that my ATM is sleeping, someone will pay for me," he didn't flinch.

"God... you are impossible," Jodha laughed loving his adamancy. "Jalal...", softly calling his name, she sealed the wallet in his hands and looked up to him. ""... you already offered me something more precious than these notes Jalal...", she fondly stared. "..YOUR TIME!! Thank you so much for accompanying me. Without you, it wouldn't have been that simple...", she sincerely acknowledged. "..and if you want me to ask for your time again without inhibitions, please accept this", slowly taking her hands back, she pleaded. Hooking his gaze to hers, he temporarily yielded resolving to wait for the day she accepts his money without qualms.

"How far is The Lodhi from here?" contented with his agreement, Jodha inquired.

"Just five minutes drive, why?" Jalal glared inquisitive. "Will you drive back on your own? I mean... you'll take drinks...", she hesitated not knowing how to express herself. Moreover she felt it too lame to advise him, a man who would have drunk and drove tens of times before this.

"I don't get intoxicated to the extent I lose my balance Jodha," he gently asserted sensing her reticence. "Okay then... have a nice time," faintly wishing, she pensively moved out along with him. Drink and drive never had her whole-hearted consent, however short the distance is!!

"What about your dinner? Will you go with Ramesh?"

"No, I'm full. If I'm hungry later, I'll order something to room." After greeting good night to each other, the duo parted their ways.

"Hey Jodha...", a shuddering shriek from Ramesh battered her futile attempts to escape into her suite before being spotted. Gritting under breath, her hand unclasped the knob and she faked a friendly smile. "Where were you gone? I didn't see you since afternoon", he enquired.

"Was away for shopping and my phone was muted. Sorry I couldn't take your calls," her voice sounded regretless. "Ohk... do you have a tablet? My head is badly aching", brushing his temple, he exhibited a pain that never existed.

"Sorry Ramesh... I don't have any. Why don't you ask at the reception?" unbothered by his suffering, she plainly suggested. "I did, but they don't have one. Please yaar... please check your bags once, if not a tablet, a balm would also do, please help me," he implored compelling her to oblige.

Softened by the pleading, Jodha unlocked the door and he treacherously followed. Dropping the swipe card on side cabinet, she proceeded to check her handbag as a strip of painkillers usually resides in one of the inner zips. Ensuring she's oblivious of his act, Ramesh stealthily picked a duplicate card that remained unused. "I only have a pain killer, hope it helps," turning back, Jodha offered the strip. "Thank you so much, will you come down for dinner?" his lustful gaze loitered over her curves while her head lowered to zip the bag.

"No, I ate out. You go ahead, I'm too tired and sleepy", she curtly dismissed indirectly hinting him to leave the room soon and the lecherous man's eyes gleamed in pleasure. After all, she being tired and sleepy would only help perfect execution of his plan.

10:00pm

"Your once upon a time wife got two shocks of her life today Jalal", the mid-aged businessman guffawed; four shots of Vodka and the encouraging ambience dampened the decency of the otherwise dignified entrepreneur. Though the addressing enraged the poised man, he stayed mutinous - there is no point encountering a semi-sentient boozer.

"What was that?" another over enthusiastic roped in prior to Jalal's reciprocation.

"Remember the lady who refuted your ex-wife's presentation?" the aged man sniggered.

"Aaliya!!" Jalal corrected and the former winked. "Oh... you so hate she being referred to as your ex-wife Jalal. Fine, as you say...", he continued. "We saw how shocked Aaliya was when that girl cross questioned during the last minute. As if that wasn't enough, she encountered that architect and got the second jolt."

"Aaliya confronted Jodha!!" Jalal's body leaned forward in alarm. "What did she say?" an impulsive question rapidly dived out. "She offered a job in her company and the architect refused," the former smirked and repeated the exact conversation of Aaliya and Jodha that morning. "Aaliya's blanched face was worth watching," under the spell of Vodka, the boozed man giggled again patting Jalal's shoulders.

"That architect seems to be a loyal, beautiful, brainy bitch!! Wish she worked for me!!" the third man wet his lips recollecting Jodha's petite form.

"She works for me," Jalal's hardened cold gaze chilled the third man's spine. "..and is a family friend."

"Sorry boss!!" an auto-piloted apology muttered from his mouth. To ease the tension, he appreciatively patted Jalal. "You're lucky to have such faithful employee." But the perturbed man held no interest in the dinner further. "Why didn't Jodha inform me about this? What all did Aaliya say? I have to talk to Jodha!!" he got up to leave.

----

"Sleeping?" handing over the car for valet parking and walking towards the pool, Jalal texted. Revitalized by his message, the lethargic woman right away responded, albeit, in form of a call. "Are you back??"

"Will you come down to the pool, if you're not sleepy??" reposing on a lonely bench, he requested - a pair of intense eyes from the poolside restaurant fixed its glare on the masculine form. "Ok, two minutes," springing out of bed, Jodha quickly changed into kurta-pyjama she wore earlier and gushed out of room. Awaiting her, he crossed his legs and extended left arm along the bench relaxing with the soothing breeze.

"You're so fast!! I didn't expect you to return before the date changed," cheerfully smiling to him, Jodha approached the leisurely-seated man. Loosely braided hair rolling down from left shoulder to elbow via up curves, shining eyes, a rowdy lock kissing her right cheek - Is this how she is while talking to him every night!! Mashallah!! No wonder he grew envious of the luck of the unruly lock.

"What are you so busily thinking boss?" sitting beside him, she raised brows. Without breaking the gaze, he calmly asked. "What did Aaliya tell you?" Mystified, her gaze turned suspicious!! "Who told you that Aaliya talked to me?"

"That's irrelevant Jodha, answer me first!!" he insisted. Jodha or Aaliya - which name sounded more musical in his husky voice?? Obviously mine!! Self-appraising her conclusion, she carelessly leant back muttering an answer. "She offered me a job with...", her statement dragged as the aftermath of her carelessness kindled a spark down her nape. As she mindlessly leant back, her bare nape gladly crushed the open fist of his extended arm. Gosh!! Immediately straightening her torso and looking aside, she completed the sentence. "...cent percent hike and I refused!!"

Leering at her reflexes, he teased. "I must admit Aaliya is smart in spotting talent. You know, she's the one who brought Raj to Regal." Rolling eyes at the unendurable praises, the irked lady retorted. "Very true!! She classified me loyal with in five minutes of first meeting and someone couldn't do it even after five months."

"Each has a different approach miss..", chortling at the sarcasm, he continued. "What else did she say?"

"Nothing else," she nonchalantly shrugged.

"That's all?" tilting his head, Jalal scrutinized. "What about sinking ship and captain?" Dubiously glaring at him, Jodha quipped. "Looks like your spies gave a detailed report of our conversation? What else you want to know?"

"I want to know if you're not offended in any way," awed by her diplomacy in concealing the matter, he put it straight. "How can I be offended when anyone offers me a 100 percent hike?" pretending to be proud, she wryly threatened. "..and now that you understand my value, you better be nice to me boss!!"

"Aaliya is smart but insane Jodha," biting back a lip, he seriously expressed. "else, why'd she welcome a trouble by paying double."

"Hi Jalal..", a call from behind interrupted Jodha's response and the couple eventually looked back. Seeing the woman of discussion elegantly standing right behind them, the mirth on the duo's faces vanished.

"May I have a word with you in private?" a flat request emanated.

----

"What are they talking for so long?" growing anxious with every passing minute, Jodha overlooked the fact that it's not been even ten minutes since she left them alone. It's almost eleven pm and the tiring day made her drowsy, but each time her lids closed, Aaliya's dainty form flashed behind them. "I must sleep lest I should go mad," making the room completely dark, she pulled the duvet and began counting hundred to one to invite sleep. By the end of tenth round of counting, the exhausted lady successfully dozed off to a semi-sleep.

"She'd have slept!!" a shadow lingered in front of Jodha's suite door trying to perceive an indication of activity before actually sneaking in. Envisaging her sleeping form, the intoxicated man couldn't wait any longer. All through the day, he contemplated over and over and derived at this fail proof plan. As a part of it, he approached a local chemist in the evening for a sedative drug, only to get a suspicious glare and a no in return. Lamenting his limited knowledge and time that restricted a further search, he boldly resolved to carry on with the execution. It only needed some courage from his end and a few pegs of intoxication served the purpose. He also brainstormed how keep her mouth shut forever, once he's successful in his attempt.

Switching on the mobile light to shove darkness, Ramesh gradually lurked towards the bed. There she was, peacefully resting unbeknown of the presence of a monster in her vicinity. Lasciviously watching the sleeping form, he sat on the edge and slowly pulled the duvet down. Thankful to the active subconscious mind, Jodha twitched in sleep sensing the missing warmth of comforter; hauling it up again, she rolled to left and her folded knees collided with an obstacle. Too languid to open the lids, she tried kicking the obstacle out of way, but a hand surpassingly closed her mouth. HER EYES FLUNG OPENED!!

***********

"Bastxxd, rascal, idiot, creep, jerk!!" Arduously scrubbing her face, palms and arms Jodha ran like a darted arrow towards Jalal's suite. "I love you Jodha and I know you love me too!! I'll make you mine forever," the assaulter's filthy rant reverberated. "Chee... bloody basxxxd!!"

"Jalal...", banging the door and ringing the bell simultaneously, the terrorized lady shrieked. "Jalal... open...", convulsively looking back, she smacked it with more vigor. What if the rascal recovered from blows and came out!! "Wake up Jalal... please...", profusely striking the door, she shouted again - her screams echoed in the lull corridor awakening the neighbors. Carried away by panic attack, she condoned the possibility that the room could have been unoccupied.

"Miss... behave yourself... you're disturbing us...", casting a dirty look at the messy woman, an old man from the adjacent suite plunged out. "Sorry..." squirming at the dinginess in his glare, Jodha was about to solicit the old man's help when he bluntly slammed the door. Stunned by his crudeness, she gave up screaming and striking but, as one last attempt she fervently rang the bell. "Why don't you hear me Jalal?? please wake up... please!!" Succumbing to torment, her forehead lounged against the door ardently waiting for it to open and take her in. "May be he's not in room at all?" The possibility stroke a minute later - "will call him from reception," wiping off the moist eyes, she ran to the elevator with recouped spirit.

"Or is he at the pool still?" remembering that she last left him at the pool, her direction changed. Too anxious to wait for the elevator, the hysteric lady frantically strode downstairs. Fervently searching for him through the glass doors, she dashed out of lobby exit and she was right. He was still by the pool, standing near the same bench they previously sat. One glimpse of him, probably the most yearned one ever, churned a well of emotions in her heart. "There is he is - your ultimate solace and shield!! Just run to his arms and forget the rest, he'll take up your battle!!" the overwhelmed heart rejoiced. Blinded by faith and tears, Jodha raced in his direction condoning the woman he was talking to. Once the couple markedly bobbed up to eyes' purview, her pace dropped to baby steps. Aaliya is incoherently sobbing and Jalal is wiping her tears!! That was the sight the hazed eyes perceived.

Catching hold of the thundering breath, Jodha quickly slid behind a pillar. "What should I do now?" leaning against it for support, she vacillated. "Without you... one year...", a wave of breeze carried Aaliya's discordant words to her ears. It was obvious they're having a VERY PRIVATE TALK!!

"It's not time to loiter over ethics or manners idiot," her conscience snapped. "Forget her and just go to him." Encouraged by intuition and unblemished faith on the man standing fifteen feet away from her, Jodha came out of the hiding and took confident steps toward him. His side profile was only visible as he faced Aaliya and with every progressing step their words became better audible.

"I missed you Jalal...", the sobs intensified. "...terribly missed you my friend." To the advancing woman's daze, Aaliya tightly hugged Jalal, however, Jodha's march continued with unaltered determination. A moment later Jalal's voice reverberated- "I missed you too Lil!!" At that asseveration, the former's feet froze.

"Did he say that?" she stood still witnessing their embrace. "Did she hear that?" The vision before her blurred!! Her mind benumbed to such an extent that she didn't realize when her feet began trekking back.

---

"Where to go?" dragged to reality by a scrupulous glare of the receptionist, the numbed woman looked at herself-night suit, bare feet, flooding eyes - obviously she epitomized an object of attention and suspicion. Temporarily obscuring in the immediate hideout that inflicted in her mind, the elevator, she thoughtlessly pressed the top button and propped her body against the wall shutting the pouring eyes.

A hand surpassingly closed her mouth and her eyes flung opened!! Much before the drowsy mind recognized the man leaning onto her, the sensitive nose descried the pungent smell of alcohol. A drunken moron slinked into her room and is trying to molest her!! That was the first culmination she apprehended. Mustering all strength into fists, she nudged him off, but instead of jerking away, the nerd's grasp on her mouth fastened while his legs locked the punting feet; terror pierced her courage and brain deadened anticipating the approaching destruction. Violently shaking head to get off his clasp, the terrified lady continued to attack.

"I love you Jodha and I know you love me too!! I'll make you mine forever today," taking pleasure in the assault of fists on his chest, the inane man feverishly blabbered... and his voice revealed the identity. RAMESH!! Chilled by the revelation, her protest stalled. "How dare he!!" a strong surge of aversion racked her soul, simultaneously a ray of hope shined... ATLEAST THE INTRUDER ISN'T A COMPLETE STRANGER. MAY BE SHE CAN CAJOLE HIM AND MANAGE AN ESCAPE.

Surprised by the suspended protest, Ramesh's face bent onto hers to read the havoc running in her mind. "Don't panic, calm down... calm down... think", hypnotizing the frozen cells, she withdrew hands from his chest. Tenderly cuddling his hand and hating the fate that compelled her to do so, she blinked eyes indicating him that she wanted to talk. Drowning in her fragrance and beauty, his forehead touched hers. "Want to talk baby?" he gabbed. Pressing the pillow deeper with back of head, as if that'd distance her forehead from his, she nodded. "Ok...", deceived by the softness in her eyes, the beast slightly loosened his grip . "I too lov...", she choked and his grip loosened more anticipating the magical words from her tempting lips. Utilizing the opportunity, her fingers snaked around his wrist while he foolishly savored her touch. "Wow... you're impatient than me to..."

"... Aah...", a frenetic scream shot out of him as Jodha's teeth ferociously pierced his wrist and her fingers mightily arched his fingers back - his left hand that anchored beside her head on the pillow automatically dispelled. Not wasting a second, she pushed him again, albeit more vigorously, kicked the duvet and rolled to her right moving out of his reach. Thrusting the night lamp switch on, she jumped out of bed and scurried to main door without looking back. Her hand almost rested on the knob when the beast's clasp rooted round her waist forbidding the escape. "Help", she screamed and the next moment her mouth got sealed.

"One feet... only one feet between life and death!!" unwavering her gaze from the door, she struggled. If she manages to step out, it's her REBIRTH.

"One feet... only one feet between heaven and hell!!" unwavering his gaze from the door, he strangled. If he lets her step out, it's his THE END!!

"Help me Baba...", her heart cried at the overpowering might of the beast. "Why do you want to escape sweetheart," he kissed her hair. "Let's enjoy together. You're upset that your wedding was called off, right, but fret not; I'll fulfill the after wedding rituals. You are ominous to wed, not to bed dear...", filthily prattling, he twirled her away from door and in the process, her stretched hand brushed past the hotel's umbrella that hung above the shoe rack. Triumphantly laughing and crazily kissing her hair, the monster continued pulling her back to bed oblivious of the action of her hands.

"Thud...", the wooden handle of the long umbrella thumped on his forehead imposing him to unfasten the clutches. Thud... thud... thud... thud... lowering her head as much as possible, she delivered a series of blows without bothering to look back where exactly she's batting- her only target that instant was to free from his clinching paws. Moaning in pain, Ramesh had to withdraw the arms to cover his head and the moment she gained freedom, Jodha mightily jolted him down and dashed to exit. By God's grace, this time she was successful!!

"Ting...", pulling her to presence, the elevator doors opened to a deserted terrace.

----

"Tears are priceless Meenu... don't shed them for wrong cause or wrong person!!" The countless times she cried over frocks, shoes or petty squabbles with friends, her father taught. "Try sending a drop of tear back to your eyes... can you?" he used to educate. "Such a treasure they are... once spent, there's no way to revive... be wise before spilling them!!" Lifting head up from knees, Jodha brushed her eyes... again and again till the swollen orbs completely ceased misting.

Out of elevator, she slithered along the immediate wall and broke down completely. Tears flooded nonstop and she didn't understand their nature - were they tears of insult or fear or jealousy or self-pity or all? She also didn't understand what bruised her more - Ramesh's brutality or Jalal's infidelity or both. Five minutes later her head lifted up reminiscing her father's sermon - whatever it is, no point in crying, it did no good except adding a ton of burden to head.

"Why did he say he missed her?" retrospection began as quietude restored. "What does he mean by that and what'll happen next? Will they patch up?" strangely her thoughts revolved around the emotional turmoil instead of physical one. "One talk with Aaliya and he's gone away from me... too far for my call or cry to be heard!!" a twisting pain rooted. Bracing arms around knees to fight against the monsoon gust, she scanned around - an empty terrace, human free and terror free, safe enough to spend the remaining night!!

Had she desired, she had a plethora of alternatives to battle the night - seek help of receptionist or dial up police or knock Jalal's door again. There isn't a need to spend a night on terrace when there are hundreds of people in hotel for help. But still, she decided that way, as she lacked the will, the desire to utter a word to anyone. All she wanted then was loneliness, absolute solitude - a moment to herself to revisit the journey she dreamed to travel with HIM.

~~~

"Our marriage is a mistake Jalal...", Aliya's admission replayed as he laid on bed relaxed. "You know me better than anyone Jalal... I always aspired for best in life... and to me you are the best!! When Abbu initiated our proposal, I didn't think twice... I'm not sure if I loved you, but one thing I was sure of... shouldn't let the best go of my hands!! By the time I realized we only make a great buddies but not a great wife and husband, it was too late Jalal and I'm not blaming you, you at least tried to live up to your part though I miserably failed. In a greed of possessing the best man, I lost my best friend. I badly missed my friend, my ace mentor. Can we be friends again?" The inebriation finally helped the rigid woman to break her wall of pride that night. She freaked out, cried and hugged and was inconsolable. To be honest, Jalal too missed her, not as a wife though. After he willfully assured his friendship, the inebriated lady calmed down and then Jalal helped her to her suite.

"How blissful the day was!!" with a sweet smile dancing on his lips, Jalal rolled to a side. Of course, the day turned out to be beautiful for him- he got his nonage friend back and most importantly he shared two thirds of the day with his ladylove. "This is how a ladybug bites...", his smile widened remembering her attack. "My wild tigress!!" lovingly recalling their moments, he picked up the mobile; its five minutes past Twelve, and since they've already crossed the stage of minding time before calling, he dialed her.

The melodious music stupefied the semiconscious man imposing him to crawl to the bedside. Post Jodha's escape, Ramesh dreaded she'd immediately return with people for his onslaught and tried to vanish from the spot but couldn't - a hit to the center table aggregated with Jodha's blows, rendered him languorous.

"Batman?" his head shook to strip off the languor and to confirm the name of caller. Ensuring not to touch the phone, he gradually stood up and studied the room. "Fix the mess and scoot off," his reviving senses warned. Five minutes later, he reinstated the swipe card and staggered out of the reconditioned room.

"Might be sleeping hard, sleepy head!!" after dialing twice with no luck, Jalal cheerfully surmised and dozed off.

-----

"If he so loves Aaliya, why did he come close to me? Closer than a boss should do?" heat of thoughts tabooed the coldness of body. Stubbornness and contemplation seemed to steel her body as she hardly quivered though exposed to chill air for two hours. An hour back as she reeled upon the entire happening, she was insanely angry - with Jalal, Aaliya, Ramesh, Delhi, the old man, the hotel and above all herself; with time anger dwindled and pain settled.

"What have you done to me Jalal? There was a time when your marriage or ex-wife hardly mattered me, but now your intimacy with her is stabbing me. I became irrationally possessive and outrageously jealous that I can't tolerate a second woman around you. Why did you encourage my feelings with your pampering? Why did you do this to me?" she ridiculously blamed.

"Enough of blames and complaints; think about how to handle that moron!!" the sapient conscience poked. "Hmm... I don't want Jalal's help, I've to tackle it on my own..." she ruefully sighed. "Badepapa... yes... first thing in the morning is to inform him. He'll guide me," she decided.

"Two shaded scoundrel... how innocent he pretends in office!!" her thoughts diverted to Ramesh and unconsciously she scratched her skin again. This is the nth time she rubbed all the parts where Ramesh's hands laid, but the repugnance seemed never diminishing. "Only a shower with a pumice stone would slacken this loathing," mopping face with palms, she got up to stroll a bit to actuate the desensitized feet. Hours passed with repeated turns of sitting and strolling whilst her mind engaged in a thousand thoughts; by the time the moon completed two thirds of his shift, sleep took over the drained lady.

5:45am

"How to ask the receptionist for keys?" splashing water on her face, Jodha pondered. A face wash and a vague brush of hair with fingers helped her look civilized. Framing a believable story in mind, she walked to the reception silently praying for her bare foot to go unnoticed.

"Good morning ma'm!!" To her luck, a sweetly smiling lady substituted previous night's male receptionist. "Very good morning Miss... you've a beautiful smile," Jodha complimented to please the lady before asking for favor. "Huh... speaking to a second person after hours of crazy self-talk, that too a woman was so refreshing!!" she heaved a sigh of relief.

"I stepped out of my room casually and the door got locked, can you help me please? Suite number 405," tossing a luring smile, she requested.

"Sure ma'm", impressed by Jodha's charm, the receptionist immediately activated a new card. Gleefully thanking the former, she turned to leave when a deadly suspicion suspended her trek. "What if he's still in room waiting to attack?" Meticulously thinking over a salvage, she paused a minute.

"Anything else ma'm?" the receptionist asked from behind. "Yeah...", turning back, Jodha racked her brain for a prompt answer. "Um... coffee... would you please order a coffee for me... to my room!!"

Not daring to step in alone, Jodha lurked before the entrance awaiting the steward to turn up with coffee - ten minutes later she glimpsed him taking turn in the corridor. Supported by his presence, she cautiously stepped in attentively listening to the sounds of activity, if any. The prevailing darkness thrashed as she slotted the key into socket and Jodha carefully waited before advancing further. The scrutinizing gaze deftly shifted to the umbrella hanging over the shoe rack and her brows knitted in dubiety.

"Ma'am coffee...", the steward knocked the opened door. "Come in please...", allowing him to take the lead, she guardedly followed surveying across the room. Umbrella in place, pillows in place, neatly folded duvet - the room bore no signs of last night's wrack-up. Bending to pick up the mobile from bedside floor, she casted a glance beneath the bed. To be doubly sure, Jodha opened the toilet door ensuring her actions appeared normal to the steward.

"May I leave ma'am?" the attendant dutifully asked and she nodded. Heaving a huge sigh of relief, she wide opened the windows letting light in and darkness out. With the mug of steaming coffee in one hand and mobile in another, she collapsed onto the couch swearing not to touch the bed that left her with one of the loathsome memories of life.

"Jalal...", noticing the late night missed call, her heart didn't jump in excitement as it normally did. Unwilling to talk to him she didn't care to call back, in turn her fingers swiftly dialed Saradhi ji. "Morning Jodhu!" her peddamma answered. "Papa is sleeping, there was a suicide case last night and he had to go to settle it. You woke up so early today, it's raining here, how about there?" unbeknown of her daughter's situation, the elderly woman dwelled into a casual conversation. Reluctant to wake up a tired man so early in the morning with a trouble, Jodha postponed her intentions.

"Should shower first!!" winding up the call in five minutes, she rushed to bathroom.

8:10am

"Why is she not answering?" keenly listening to the dial tone, Jalal wondered. "If she doesn't pick up now, I'll knock the door," thus deciding he called her again and the recipient, disturbed by rings, tossed in sleep. After a cumbrous shower, the depleted lady yielded to a sedative sleep, of course on the couch.

Battling the burning lids, she verified the caller; the sedation slowly waned off and she flatly stared at the screen - hesitating before answering his call is something she experienced for the first time. "How long can I avoid him?" shaking her head in helplessness, Jodha pressed the answer button.

"Where were you lost?" the moment he heard her voice, he impatiently demanded. Not minding to say hello or good morning, he directly descended into business.

"Bathroom... just came out..." getting up from couch, she coldly answered. It seemed their roles reversed that morning. The ever-composed man turned impatient and the ever-impatient lady turned poised.

"Didn't you check my missed calls?" his brows knitted discerning the lack of enthusiasm in her response.

"Mmm... no..." she lied. "I woke up late and was in a rush to get ready!!"

"Ok, are you done? Shall we go for breakfast?" believing her fib, he didn't prod more. "I'm not hungry Jalal. You please carry on!!" Cognizing how tough it'd be to behave normal before him, she deftly refused his invite.

"Fine!!" the call ended and she glared at the screen disappointed. "He didn't even bother to ask for a second time. Too haste to disconnect, may be his love is waiting", throwing the phone on couch, she proceeded to get ready. Three minutes later, the doorbell rang interrupting her action. "Jalal?" an anonymous tension speeded up her beats as if she's meeting him for the first time. Quickly finishing the hairdo, Jodha advanced to the door instructing her racing heart to be placid. At nick of moment, her hand that held the door handle retreated. Before welcoming the man in, she decided to confirm his identity.

"Why did he come?" perceiving Ramesh instead of Jalal, she gasped. Impulsively her fingers unlocked the phone to call Jalal, but then stopped. "This is my battle, I've to fight. How long will I depend on others?" staunchly determining, she took umbrella to left hand and a heel to the right. Harboring courage, she exhaled deep and opened door to the most unwelcomed man.

Startled by the sandal in her hand Ramesh's jaw dropped. "I'm sorry Jodha," he stepped in and halted as she blocked his entry. By morning, the intoxication of alcohol curtailed and along with it his courage too; the cowardice in him returned and shuddered at the obnoxious act he endeavored. He anticipated some or other sort of reciprocation from Jodha since morning, and having received none, he mustered courage to face the lady and beg for pardon so that the issue remains a secret... forever.

"I was too drunk to fathom what I was doing," he began. "I don't know what got into me that made me behave so last night. I'm extremely sorry for hurting you... please forget it and forgive me," feigning repentance, he tried to advance in but she raised the sandal clutched palm terrorizing him to stop.

"One step back...", her cold voice roared and he obeyed, unaware that his one back step positioned him exactly out of door. "Here on, if you were to talk to me, you'll mind to maintain this distance," she forewarned pointing the sandal at him. "And it's your foolishness to dream that you'll be pardoned. Your insidious trial to steal my room key, WHEN YOU'RE FULLY CONSCIOUS, testifies your pre-planned lascivious scheme. Remember this... if you ever dare to think of me, also dare to think of THE MAN BEHIND ME," her gaze turned ferocious. "An astute lawyer whose close acquaintance includes the DGP of Karnataka, high court judge and most importantly...," she paused studying his changing colors. "THE CHAIRMAN of Regal Mr. Usman Ahmed." Charged up by the quiver in his stare, she turned the tables in her favor. "That man is my Badepapa, my father's direct brother. And I'm not saying this to intimidate you," her arms folded. "...only to inform you that murdering a BEAST for self-defense and getting away with it, UNTAINTED, would be no less than a cakewalk for me. Mind it!!" Done with aggression, she slammed the door on his face!!

"God and luck were with me last night, else what'd have happened?" leaning against the shut door, her lids closed and body quivered with the repercussions of ordeal. "I'd have been penalized for a lifetime for that brute's barbarity!!"

"How ironical!!", her mother's painful remarks rewound. Astounded by the barbarous physical assaults on women, Jodha's father suggested her to join self-defense classes and that is when her mother expelled her anguish. "Why should a woman learn self-defense to live between men Raghu?" Vasudha's voice mirrored the despair of all women. "As if we are living amidst wild animals in a forest!! Why can't a man be a man, a human, and not a beast to thirst for flesh and blood!!"

"...but unfortunately we live in a world that belongs to men; women are vulnerable and easy target, so please be prudent and vigilant." Jalal's forewarn also replayed.

"How true!! This world is not meant for women", a bead of tear rolled down her cheeks.

"Is she right? Probably...", scooting off from the slammed door, Ramesh dreaded. "Is that why she left a big company to join Regal, is that why Raj always favored her?? If chairman is their friend, then MD should be too... what if she says to Jalal sir?" His stride stopped horrified by the presence of Jalal right before him. Think of the devil and here he is!! The frightened man gulped.

"Good morning sir!" he quickly greeted plastering a smile. "Morning... what's that?" pointing to the visible red patches on forehead and cheeks, Jalal intrigued.

"Slipped in bathroom sir," a readymade response darted out of his mouth. He knew this'd be the first question from anyone after seeing his face and thence he was prepared. "Oh.. take care!!" plopping a casual courtesy, Jalal continued on his tracks.

Ringing the bell, he eagerly waited to see her. "Something is wrong, she's not normal." He knew it; a mirthless response with no boss or batman served enough to trigger a suspicion. Alarmed by bell, Jodha straightened and turned back to peep through the door eye. "Jalal..!!" she sighed. "I'm more tensed to face him than that creep," wiping of corners of eyes, she unlatched the door.

"How can you not be hungry when..." his statement abruptly hovered. The lady before him is not the spunky one he last saw at pool. "Good morning!" she smiled, blissfully ignorant that a plastic smile cannot deceive him.

"You are unwell!!" Jalal didn't ask, he just declared making his way in. "What happened?" keenly glaring at the swollen lids, he interrogated and she stayed overwhelmed with pleasure and pain. "One glimpse... if one glimpse is enough to unravel my state, will I be able to hide anything from him? Ever?" she didn't understand if she should be happy or sad.

"No... I'm fine, I overslept," Jodha answered moving away from him towards the couch. "You last ate twelve hours back and you say I'm not hungry, I'm fine and you want me to believe that?" his baritone haunted.

"I'm not hungry because it's paining..." intently looking up to him, she added. "...in stomach." Worriedly walking towards the couch, he sat besides her taking her hand into his. "Is it because of outside food? Could be a food poison Jodha, let's go to a doctor. For how long was it paining? Why didn't you call me immediately? "

"Huh... I called you, but you're too far to hear my call," anger resurrected. "I'm upset with you Jalal, I don't want to talk to you, but you are making it impossible for me!!" Escaping from his concerned glare, she murmured. "...not food poison... it's a different pain...".

"What is it? Why is she so hesitant to say?" his brows knitted in confusion watching her bowed head. A few seconds later he discerned... a woman's problem, probably. Soothingly striking her fist in his grip, he calmly asked. "Shall I call for a doctor?"

"No... it'll be fine... I took a tablet!!" Lies after lies... for what? To please your hurt ego?!! The judicious mind rebuked.

"Okay..." misjudging her indifference as embarrassment, he got up from couch. "Tablet on empty stomach is not good Jodha, eat something light!! Cereal or toast, what shall I order?" taking intercom to hand, he asked.

"Toast," she complied without an argument, as she very well knew his adamancy. "You wipe her tears there and reciprocate to my pain here... which of these two is true Jalal? " She flatly glared.

---

"Feeling better?" taking the juice glass Jodha offered, Jalal asked and she nodded. This time she didn't lie because she really felt better - thanks to the toast that nurtured her hunger and his care that nurtured her ego. "Good, you take rest. Let's go for sweets in the evening," he prepared to leave. "...and call me for anything."

"I'll go to conference Jalal," arranging the emptied plates back into tray, she said. "You are not...", Jalal curtly snapped. "It's not so significant that you can't give a miss."

"What'll I do sitting in this room? I get bored Jalal. I'm fine, I can sit in the auditorium, really...", Jodha persuaded. Spending a whole day alone in that awful suite is the last thing she could wish for.

"Sure?" he sounded skeptical.

Fetching bag and keys, she strewed a convincing smile. "Double sure... shall we go?"

"Ok... but you're not going by bus. I'll drop you and then visit my friend," he ordered and she agreed. Why wouldn't she? Does she have a choice with him around?

Next part continued below..

IHC complex, Lodhi road, lunch break

"Going out for lunch?" a woman's voice resonated in the silent premises of washroom.

"Yes... and from there to airport," Aaliya's response refrained Jodha from coming out. Maintaining sheer silence to not to alert the woman, she posed a keen ear to their conversation.

"Seems last night you had a lengthy talk with Jalal. You left me at restaurant and never returned," the other woman cracked.

"Yes!!"

"Are you going out for lunch with him? Did you guys reconcile?" the former propelled unnecessary curiosity. Despising the woman's fervor in her personal matter, Aaliya impishly answered the second question ignoring the first one. "In a way!!" Rolling lipstick back and checking her make-up, she continued. "After all we are best buddies, anyways, thanks for your company Mrs. Sharma, see you back in Hyderabad!!"

A minute after the ladies evacuated, Jodha treaded out of washroom, dejected and disappointed. Though she attended the seminar, her thoughts circulated only around Jalal all throughout. The more she evaluated her behavior, the more she detested herself. "I should've told him everything," she lamented. "I don't know what he has for Aaliya, but he definitely cares for me a lot. It'd be unfair to hide it from him." She was on the edge of breaching the indifference wall when she unfortunately came across Aaliya's revelation.

"Best buddies... at least Aaliya has a name to their relation", walking past the lunch hall, Jodha sadly thought. "But what am I to him? What should I name our relation? I can't even claim as his friend."

"Hey Jodha! Where are you going? Lunch is here", a female associate shouted from behind.

Huh.. lunch.. no body's world turns upside down if I don't eat. "I'm full", giving a short reply, Jodha dashed to exit. "What happened to her all of a sudden? She's fine before going to washroom!!" the associate wondered.

~~~~

"All thanks to the conference bro... finally you got time for us," standing up along with Jalal, the friend quipped. "Please do visit us whenever you come to Delhi bhaiyya," the friend's wife invited.

"Sure... and you guys plan for a Bangalore trip soon", Jalal returned the courtesy.

"What time is your flight?" escorting Jalal to parking, the friend asked.

"Eleven!! Send your driver to collect car by eight thirty," stopping by the car, the friends shared a parting hug. "Next time you visit us, I wish you'll not come alone," the friend warmly patted. "Hope so," Jalal cheerfully smiled.

"One Thirty," driving towards desired destination, he checked the time. "Only few more hours of blissful privacy. Back to Bangalore, back to routine. I should pull her out of that boring conference," joyously tapping on steering wheel, he switched on music.

"Ditch the conference and come down!!" receiving Jalal's text, Jodha fussed. "Huh... he remembered me now? May be his lovely friend left to airport!!" Too annoyed to reply him, Jodha stayed silent. In less than a minute, she received his call... and a second call in another half-minute, as she didn't answer the first call.

"Don't know where she keeps her phone," maneuvering car to a side, he treaded into the complex. Finding the auditorium empty, he bustled to lunch area; unable to find her there, he was about to leave when his eyes caught sight of the architect Jodha acquainted with the before day.

"Hi... do you know where Jodha is?" he politely asked the chattering woman.

"She left an hour ago, don't know where she went!!"

"With anyone?" he supposed Jodha would've joined someone for lunch or outing.

"No alone... actually we both came for lunch, but she suddenly left."

"Is she sick again? Did she return to hotel?" worry lines adorned his forehead. "Thank you," thanking her, he quickly retreated dialing Jodha again. "Pick up Jodha... pick up...", nervously chanting, Jalal reversed the car to hotel. Unable to ignore his back-to-back calls any longer, Jodha had to give up her grimness.

"Jodhaa... Where are you? In hotel?" relieved by hearing her voice, he anxiously asked.

"No!!"

"Are you okay?"

"Yes!!"

Hearing traffic sound from the other end, his eyes squinted and his question repeated, this time, in a serious tone. "Where are you?"

"Outside!!" continuing with her short replies, she poked his poise.

"I understand that," looking for a suitable sideway to stop, he patiently asked. "But where did you go? And why?"

"To India Gate, I just remembered during lunch that I haven't seen it, so came out!!" she crankily answered.

"What?" making a disgusting face at her reply, he groused. "You went alone when I told you to call me for anything. Don't you know how unsafe Delhi is? If you so yearned to see India Gate I'd have taken you."

"I didn't want to disturb you as you are busy with other priorities," she wryly countered. "And don't worry about my safety Jalal, I'll take care of myself."

"Take care of myself, my foot!! If only you know about the pervert who's hell bent on killing you!!" Controlling his massive rage, Jalal calmly asked. "Are you at India Gate now?"

"Yes...", came a curt reply again.

"Ok... stay there. I'm coming."

"No. I'm starting to Chandini chowk now. Auto...", she deliberately shouted loud, only to convey him that she really meant it.

Highly irked by her stupidity, he yelled. "Cut the crap and be there Jodha. I'm coming now", thumping the accelerator down, he galloped the car.

"Huh... he's angry on me in reverse," fuming at phone, she dismissed the auto driver. In less than ten minutes, his car stopped right in front of her. Not letting a word out, he seriously glared at her while she got in and she was no less... buckling the seat belt she coldly stared at him first and then out of window.

Steering towards Chandini chowk, he again looked at her not discerning the reason for her crankiness. For succeeding ten minutes their journey continued in sheer silence - neither he spoke, nor she and the cold war prevailed till he pulled the car aside on a private alley. Watching him stop the ignition, she broke the silence. "What happened?"

Unfastening seat belt, he quietly turned to her. "You've to tell me... what happened? What's wrong with you?"

"Nothing wrong with me Jalal, the seminar wasn't interesting, so I just walked over till India Gate. I don't understand why it infuriated you so much," she flatly stated.

"Just walked over?" he looked disapproving. "You simply say that? How can you be so careless Jodha? Do you understand how dangerous could it be for a woman to roam alone on Delhi roads? And you plan to take an auto..."

"Where isn't danger Jalal?" she abruptly cut him. "What is the safest place? If my fate is ill, the cozy four wall confines of a star hotel can also become lethal. Will you or I be able to stop it? And why shouldn't I go by auto? Is it because of the unreliable drivers? Then for your information... those drivers are better ethical than a few educated, highly civilized, well-bred morons," her anguish flushed out.

"Why did you say that?" Jalal studiously glanced. "What happened Jodha?" he insisted.

"Nothing," her head turned towards window.

"No... something is there. What are you hiding from me?" he pressurized.

"Nothing," she stubbornly repeated.

"Shut up Jodha," he authoritatively seized her arm forcing her to face him. "Remember... now and in future," he gravely warned, "Dare not to give me nothing as an answer. Tell me... whom are you referring to? Did anything happen in hotel?" Locking eyes with him for a moment, she gaped down at his hand on her arm and diverted her gaze to the tree on left. If you don't want to hear nothing as an answer... fine.. my silence is all you get!! Her apathy conveyed.

"Something disastrous definitely happened; else she wouldn't be so angry!! What is that? How to break this barricade of silence?" steadily observing her indifference, he spent a minute in speculation. Sighing his anger out, he breathed deep to compose himself; a moment later his determined fingers unbuckled her seat belt.

Bracing the slender fingers that entwined in her lap, Jalal called her with utmost gentleness. "Jo...!!" And her heart tugged. The warmth of his manly fingers and the tenderness of his call successfully delivered a first blow to her wall of detachment.

"Till a few minutes back, I was under assumption that I know you as much as your friends do," his baritone voice enforced her to look at him, but he wasn't looking at her; with head bent, his eyes were fixed on her fingers. "...but I was so wrong. I've a pride that I comprehend people's nature, their character quickly and thoroughly, and today you punctured that pride. When you began feeling comfortable with me, I was truly contented. I was happy that you didn't limit our relationship to a mere boss and employee, I cherished every minute we talked and spent together. All this while I assumed you considered me no less than Samyuktha or Priya and I supposed you held no restraints in sharing anything with me... at least significant matters if not trivial ones.. but I was so very wrong. I failed in befriending you Jodha," he looked up to her eyes. "...terribly failed," pain smothered his tone.

Hooking her eyes to his, Jodha stayed stunned. A myriad of undefined emotions seeped through her - she expected him to shout more or pester her to blurt, but his gentle persuasion came as a jolting surprise. She realized she'd completely break down if she stared one more minute into those engulfing deep black orbs.

"I don't know how to win your trust, but I can't see you like this Jo," he ruefully watched her bent head. "If you consider me worthy of sharing your grief, tell me please..." he implored. "What happened? Did anyone hurt you? Did I hurt you?" With that last question, Jodha's wall of nonchalance shattered - her fingers tightly entwined his for support.

"Last night...", she managed to utter a word but it came out as a near whisper. Nodding hard that she can't say, she turned left. "Narrating a dreadful incident in his proximity without breaking down is next to impossible and crying before him... no way... he regards me high as a strong woman!! Also what'd I say when he demands an explanation for not informing him before?"

"You were never a cowardice Jo," seeing her stumbling, he encouraged. "...you've the guts to question me, argue with me, pinch me, so what stops you now? Fine... if you are too hesitant to start, I'll help you. I'll ask you questions, you nod the answer, okay?" A faint smile adorned her lips. "He's treating her with utmost patience and it is unjust to be silent anymore. Come what may... I'll unleash this burden!!" she resolutely faced him.

"Did something happen last night?" gratified by the change in her, he flopped the first question; she nodded in yes.

"In the hotel?" - Yes

"Did anyone hurt you?" - Yes

"Aaliya?" - No

Her answer wondered him as subconsciously he suspected Aaliya behind Jodha's strange behavior. "If not Aaliya, who's it?"

"Ramesh!!" she muttered and the name startled Jalal to the core. "What did he do?" his clasp fastened and her lids lowered in humility. "After I slept," she exhaled. "..he sneaked into my room and..." she didn't know how to explain further. "And?" his forehead squirmed in bewilderment but within a few seconds he discerned the rest. Why'd a man sneak into a woman's room late at night!!

"Did he harm you?" the aggravated man nervously asked. Unable to wait a second, Jalal cupped her face forcing her to meet his eyes. "Jo... I'm with you. Whatever it is just say it, did he harm you?" he fervently insisted. He wasn't so tensed in life ever like he did that moment awaiting her response.

"Tried to... but NO!!" no sooner her confession finished, Jodha's head thumped against his chest. "Ya allah...' a silent thanks heaved out as he pressed her deeper into his heart. Reveling in his emboldened protection, the enervated lady finally experienced euphoria after a seemingly eternal wait. "Can heaven be more peaceful than this?" her eyes closed in solace. "Why Jo? Why always you? Why fate is so cruel to you?" his nerves tangled in agony. Clinching her cheeks, he lifted her head up. "He didn't harm you in any way na," he reiterated checking for bruises on her, if any.

"No Jalal," she assuredly clamped his wrist. "He tried hard but luckily I managed an escape!!" A wave of relief resuscitated his poise. She's safe!! She's safe!! He pacified himself.

" Jo...", firmly holding her shoulders, he coaxed. "Whatever happened last night, you're sharing every detail of it... every damn detail, ok? You shall not hide anything from me!!"

His grave appeal embarked dilemma in her. "If I were to say everything, I've to say about your absence in room, presence at pool and if you ask me why I didn't call you after coming so close, I've no answer Jalal.. I don't know how to explain my jealousy, " she pensively fluttered.

Misconstruing her dilemma as anxiety, Jalal promisingly stroke her hair. "Trust me Jo... disgorge your burden and leave the rest to me."

Deluged by his affection, Jodha doffed of the vacillation. "Last night after you left for dinner..." her narration began.

---

"Basxxrd...", his fists banged the steering hearing the jerk's filthy act. "...thankfully the umbrella blows made him unclasp, then I pushed him and ran out," her narration stopped. "So the red marks on his face were not from slipping, bloody burglar", his rage intensified recollecting the cheap nerd's facade.

"After that?" he impatiently asked and she gulped as the anticipated endanger approached. "I knocked your door, you didn't open."

"What??" he screamed startled. "But I was in room only, how come I didn't hear you?" having missed analyzing the timeline, he asked dazed.

"I don't know," taking advantage of his forgetfulness, she skipped the actual part. "I knocked, I rang the bell, but you didn't open and I didn't understand where else to go... so..."

"So??"

"I went to terrace and spent the night there!!"

"Jodha..." he gaped disbelieved, "All the night you were on terrace? In that cold wind?"

"Mmm," she lowly nodded bowing down. "That time I couldn't think of other alternative!!"

"God..", the astonished man sunk into his seat closing his eyes. "She was struggling all night, and instead of shielding her I comfortably slept," remorse whipped his heart. Opening eyes, he studied the dainty form in his adjacent seat. She fought a battle all on her own and by God's grace she won it, and what did I say?? "Leave the rest to me!!" How proudly did I say that?? What is left for me to do? I wasn't available for her when she most needed me!! What can I do now? Neither nullify her pain nor rewind the night to take up her fight. I came here to protect her, but could do nothing when a rascal tried to harm her right under my nose. How could I sleep when she's suffering? How can I rectify my blunder? Ramesh..", his gaze hardened. "I'm coming..!!"

Decisively sitting straight, he solemnly adjusted the lock that caressed her cheek, and her eyes lifted to his!! "I'm sorry Jo..", his devoting glare silently conveyed. "Fasten your seat belt," a soft command hurtled.

-----

"This is only advance," offering a few notes to the attendant, Jalal asserted. "By end of it you'll benefit more than you dreamt of, and don't fear," inducing valor in the indecisive attendant, Jalal convinced. "You are helping a right cause."

"Ok sir..", accepting the amount, the steward agreed. "You please come in ten minutes, meantime I'll talk to the technician." After the attendant left, Jalal reclined in couch reevaluating his plan.

The drive back to hotel continued in silence with the couple immersed in their respective rumination. An avalanche of challenges rolled over Jalal's mind - How to gather evidence against the creep? How to punish him? Why didn't she reveal this in morning? Is it because she's angry with him for not being available or is it something else?

"Did you inform Saradhi ji about this?" he asked and she explained how she couldn't get hold of the busy advocate. Definitely she's upset with me, only me!! He surmised after knowing her attempts to apprise Saradhi ji.

"Did Ramesh misbehave with you earlier?"

"No.. he proposed for marriage and I refused.. after that he didn't pester me, but there was certainly a change in his behavior. He acted more possessive," she nonchalantly said.

"When did this happen?" taken aback by the revelation, Jalal boggled.

"On dinner day.. ", she divulged how the nerd proposed and how she rejected on pretext of horoscope. "Since I disclosed that I lost my family, he'd have assumed there's no one to back me, rascal. Haan.. I forgot to tell you.. I used Usman uncle's name to threaten him. Hope that wouldn't be a problem," looking worried, she reprised the morning's incident. A blazing compassion filled his heart, "My champ, you don't need a man to defend you!!" he proudly thought squishing her hand in assurance. "No problem, you did the right thing.. " he avowed. "but remember Jo.. a victim's silence is a felon's strength. Never stay silent to any such assault, react and retaliate. You always have your family, friends and me in your support!!"

"Tuck!!" the dab of door pulled him out of thoughts. "Done with packing?" Jalal asked ascending from sofa and the resplendent lady nodded. "Ok, finish it," pointing to a tray of hot food, he enounced. ".. and sleep peacefully. If uncle calls you don't tell him anything, I'll talk to him later."

His world may not turn upside down, but my hunger definitely matters him!! An ecstatic influx fetched a meek smile on her, inflicting similar effect on the entranced man - he reciprocated with a sweet smile. "I'm going out on a work. If you want anything call me," he said.

"How long will it take? We've to go for sweets too..", she reminded.

"Text me the list, I'll get them when I'm done!!"

"Ok," amending the list to include a kg of assorted sweets for Samyu, she forwarded the message. As much as Jodha loved chiding her bestie, she also loved pampering her!! Sweets and Samyu.. how can she separate them?!! Reading through the items, Jalal chuckled. "Seems you came to Delhi for shopping, not for conference."

----

"Next.. footage of fourth floor after eleven last night!!" Sticking his eyes to the screen, Jalal instructed the lady technician. The steward managed to convince the CCTV monitoring operator to help Jalal by the time the latter descended down. After retrieving a copy of Ramesh talking to Jodha at 405 entrance at eight forty five, he instructed the lady to forward to the video to eleven pm. Around eleven twenty, the video captured Ramesh walking to Jodha's room and loitering before the door for a while. The lady watched confused whilst Jalal's eyes reddened. Exactly twelve minutes later, they saw the door opening again and Jodha frantically darting out. The operator then discerned why she was requested for the footage, she gasped in fear.

"Sir.. did he??" the astonished woman immediately turned to Jalal. "No..", without averting his gaze, Jalal seriously instructed. "Please open the other camera's recording.. the one in hallway of 412".

"Time?"

"Eleven thirty!!" The video started playing and the viewers keenly hooked to the screen. At eleven thirty two, they saw Jodha running from far end of the corridor towards suite number 412. Though the lighting was dim, the camera managed to record every movement of her - banging, ringing, convulsively looking back, the neighbor coming out and she exhaustedly lounging against the door. The aggravated viewer's heart wrenched witnessing the plight of his beloved. "Pause it!!" Painfully watching Jodha's distressed form, Jalal's fingers fidgeted on the screen caressing her face. "Shame on me!!" he acutely abhorred his inability to armor her.

"Eleven thirty three..," his eyes turned to the time of recording. "I'd have just returned to room then.. How did I drive into a deep slumber in such a short time?" he churned his memory. "When did I call her?" remembering that he dialed her before sleeping, he quickly checked the call log. "Twelve five.. after dropping Aaliya, I changed and then called; all this would have taken ten minutes.. It means.. I wasn't in the room at eleven thirty.. was at pool", he deduced.

"Play..!!" The video continued with Jodha running towards elevator, waiting a moment and dashing to adjacent staircase. And then she's gone!!

"I went to terrace as I couldn't think of an alternative.." Jodha's citation resonated. "Poor girl.. Its quite understandable that she couldn't properly think in such state, this video testifies how shattered she was!!" a rueful sigh ejected. When did Ramesh leave? "Back to 405 corridor camera and see when that jerk left!!" The operator forwarded till Ramesh was seen to leave an hour later.

"Please copy everything into a cd," Jalal requested. Once done, he played the disc to ensure all required evidence is properly recorded. Satisfied, Jalal ejected the disc expressing gratitude to the operator for helping him. He got up to leave, which is when an oddity in the video smacked his shrewd cells.

"Rewind the last part once," Jalal eagerly solicited mounting the disc. It played the same as it did earlier - Jodha treading to staircase, and Ramesh leaving. She said she went to terrace, but the steps were directed down. Where did she actually go?

"Where does that stair case lead to?" his forehead squeezed into dubious frown.

"To lobby.." the steward replied. ".. also to the pool via lobby exit!!" That extra piece of information stirred an intense suspicion in the cognitive man. Did she come to pool looking for me?

"Is there a camera by the pool?"

"No sir..", the lady answered. "For privacy of our customers, pool area is not under surveillance, but there is one at the exit door that leads to pool."

"Play its recordings from eleven thirty!!" He solidly stared at the screen waiting to confirm his guesswork and the recording at eleven thirty five gave him the cue. The camera neatly captured Jodha running out of exit. So she's been to the pool when I was there!! Why the hell didn't she come to me then? Four minutes later, Jodha reappeared on the screen. Only her back was visible as the camera faced the lobby, but Jalal noticed a prominent change in her gait - she no more ran as she did before, her pace was slow, very slow almost like a woman in trance and she took a right turn. That was all!!

"Its obvious she found me at pool, but what stopped her from beckoning me?" kneading his temple, Jalal brainstormed. Aaliya!! The clouds scattered and the loose ends connected. Yes.. she'd have seen us intimately talking, probably hugging too, and silently departed!! God.. what did she think!! Is this why she remained aloof? How should I explain that it is a mere reconciliation of two friends not a husband and wife??

Taking an alleviating moment to recompose, Jalal staunchly stood up. "Thank you so much for your cooperation miss. I don't mean disrespecting your morality, but for my exoneration, I request you to accept my token of gratitude when he gets it to you."

Impressed by the gentleman's amiability, the lady elegantly smiled. "It's my pleasure helping you sir. I understand the situation and I feel extremely sorry for her. I have been working here for two years, but haven't seen such incident in our hotel. Hope you'll succeed in punishing that man."

"Yes!!" the perseverant man's grit reflected in his squinted eyes. "Inform me when the man in 408 returned!!" he passed on an instruction to the credulous attendant.

6:30pm

Silently securing the heavy bags in closet, Jalal casted a side-glance at the sleeping beauty. The running television indicated that she dozed off in sofa while watching it. Turning it off, he tiptoed to the couch and cautiously sat at an end minding not to disturb her peaceful sleep. Crossing arms, he leisurely leant back and slightly tilted head to have a glimpse of her.

"Why were you silent Jo?" without batting a lid, he glared at her. "I was just a hand reach away, but why didn't you come for me? Why did a third person's presence stop you? I wish I told you how important you are to me, then, I'd not have slipped into this regretful situation. Had you questioned me, fought with me instead of avoiding me, I'd have been much happier. Punish me for my mistake Jo, please don't punish yourself..."

KICK!! His elongated insight broke with a blow on his ribs!!

"Woah.. ", he gaped at her feet that delivered a perfect kick in sleep. She's struggling to stretch her legs and as part of the trial they kicked the hurdle that impeded their way. "What a perfect timing..", he giggled. ".. like she heard my insight", withdrawing to the farthest corner, he made place for her feet. Passionately studying the curves of the shapely toes, he stayed still. "Sexy speck!!" A black mole beneath the first toe on left foot attracted his attention, and he couldn't resist softly brushing it with a fingertip. For one whole minute, he constantly peered at it unconsciously fondling with his finger and seeing her toes coiling, his finger retreated. "I got to know your little secret," a doting smile danced on his lips and in no time his gaze swiftly returned the captivating black dot. "This dot...", narrowing his eyes, he thought. "I know this.. I've seen it before.. ", feeling a strong connection with the little mote, he racked his brain. "A thumb and a mole beneath it.. I definitely saw this combination before.. when and where??"

Seriously brainstorming, he looked up to Jodha's face and again at the dot. "aha.. not on Jodha.. this is the first time I got a glimpse of her sole.. so it was someone else.. they have the same mole.. who's that?" His meditation scattered with a call from the steward.. "Sir, the man in 408 just came."

"Ok.. thank you!!" The ringtone disrupted the weary woman's sleep and her lids gradually opened. "Good evening..", Jalal greeted and she returned it with a lazy smile. "When did you come," clouded by the sedation of slumber, her eyes shut again and the curled legs lethargically stretched blithely kissing the side of his waist. "mmm..", a cute frown creased her forehead as the toes cuddled his muscle validating what the obstacle is. "Pillow? Oh no..!!" Startled by realization, Jodha hastily sat up withdrawing her feet. "Sorry.. so sorry," the baffled lady compensated the cute negligence with a cute apology, and he graciously chuckled.

"I hope this punishment placates your anger," he impishly quipped. "Anger?" Jodha looked perplexed. "Oh yeah.. I was upset with him," she remembered. "Why would I be angry with you?" avoiding his scrutiny, she checked the time .. 6:40. "Shall I order coffee or tea for you?" deviating the topic, she courteously asked. "nah.. I'm going to party with a friend now," he wryly witted.

"mm.. ok I'll go for sweets then, when is your flight?"

"Same as yours..," setting out for his mission, Jalal replied. "And the sweets are there..", he indicated to the closet. "Oh.. you brought them already.. thank you..!!" reaching out to the boxes to tally them with her list, she acknowledged.

"It may take an hour or two for me to return. Your luggage is shifted here, have your dinner and be ready. Let's leave to airport at nine."

"..sure!!"

"What is this?" taking out a plastic box that was different from other packs, Jodha intrigued. "Rasmalai!!" confused by the unforeseen item, she turned back skeptical. "Jalal is this yours?" she enquired and the man lacing his shoes looked up!!

"No!!" he replied and continued with his task.

"Then how did it come into our packet? Its not in the list I gave you!!" she guessed it'd have been misplaced into their bag by the shopkeeper.

"Its in our packet because," turning the knob and readying to step out, he sniggered. "I paid for it. Its all yours.. a dozen Rasmalai.. would that be enough?" he teased. Her mouth wide opened in amazement, a moment later, a gladdened grin glistened her face. "You eavesdropped our conversation?? Then I'd have said a hundred Rasmalai.. ", quickly grabbing a spoon from the tray, she ran to him smiling to his eyes. "Thank youuu.. ", forwarding the sweet and spoon, she gleamed.

"Wow.. how much he missed this smile of hers since morning!!" lovingly locking eyes with hers he took a bite. The sweetness of sweet filled his mouth, and the sweetness of her smile filled his heart. "Thank you!! You enjoy the rest.. bye!!"

"Bye!!" with broadest of the smile, she waved.

The door closed behind and the tenacious man's smile disappeared. Taking determined long strides to suite number 408, he rang the bell and restlessly waited for it to open.

"Hi Ramesh.. I haven't got enough time to talk to you. Would you like to join me for a drink?" a conniving invitation trapped the poor prey.

***********

"Escort sir to his suite!", intently watching the languorous boozer, Jalal instructed the bartender. Falling prey to the invitation, Ramesh cheerfully followed Jalal taking pride in the opportunity to share a table with MD of the company. Adding to his pleasure, the scapegoat was offered the costliest drinks he ever tasted, and the result... an hour later, he found himself too intoxicated to stand or to discern the happenings around him. "Boss you're great... drinks... food... all top notch... thank you", the sluggish man drowsily stammered. Sharply gazing at the retreating drunkard, Jalal pursued the next step of execution - calling up his friend's driver and passing on appropriate instructions.

"Suite number 408, checkout form please...", stopping by the reception Jalal solicited. "The occupant will vacate in two hours, since he's sick I'm finishing the formality on his behalf. Any checks to be cleared?" the shrewd man enquired. Clearing the bills and making a point to penalize the nerd with twenty times the amount he invested, the steadfast executor proceeded to accomplish the vital portion of perdition.

"May I leave sir?" helping the staggering drunkard to bed, the bartender humbly asked. "Yes...", a response came from the sturdy man behind. "And come back in an hour. He has a flight to catch and his cab is booked. He might need your help," tipping the bartender, Jalal passively waited till he left. Very soon, the door shut accrediting the predator and his prey a slaughtering privacy. Suspense filled the air as Jalal precariously eyed the moron stammering and lurching on bed. His gaze intensated, as acute as a starving lion hunting its prey, a moment later his attention transited to the night lamp!! Dexterously unscrewing base and head of the lamp, he separated the connecting rod out. Gingerly approaching the carouser, he sternly pulled the cuffs up formulating the exertion. Seizing a pillow, he surpassingly covered the brute's mouth to muffle the tormented cries.

"Mmm...", the semi-conscious man winced loud perceiving a ferocious stroke on his legs, but the scream came out barely audible as the pillow sturdily masked his face. The sufferer's legs curled and hands hovered on the pillow to pull it off his face. Unfortunately, the inebriated state he soused in didn't cooperate to fight back.

"Aah... mm..", the frequency of moans increased with the frequency of strokes. From thighs to ankles, every inch of his legs received a blow. Fervently pounding the grimy legs that clinched Jodha, the arbitrator's target slithered to the ugly arms that touched his lady. Depleted of energy, Ramesh barely resisted the assault; he languorously rolled giving up his body to the outrageous man. Arms, waist, ribs, back - for the skilled man in action, it hardly took two minutes to crisply wind up the chastisement. Having lost the nerve to protest, the rascal squirmed like a caterpillar, feebly groaning and growing woozy - a minute after the onslaught halted, his body ceased movement as the onslaught rendered him unconscious.

"Bas***d!!" garnering all his anger to the booted foot, the exasperated boss delivered a final blow on the brute's hips. Exhaling deep to expel his rage, Jalal threw the rod aside and seized the wallet and mobile from the unconscious man's pockets. Dunking the mobile in a jug of water, he waited till the piece turned lifeless. Neatly drying it, the prudent man double-checked its state by switching the mobile on. Convinced that it transformed to sheer crap, Jalal tucked it back in Ramesh's pants. His fast fingers in action immediately laid upon the wallet; taking the cards and cash out, the dogged man ensured the wallet is rendered useless. A few final touch ups here and there, and he is done. Casting a final glance at the comatose body, Jalal swiftly trekked out of the suite - with the lamp fixed, and the numb man sleeping with a neatly covered duvet, the room appeared as if it hasn't witnessed an ordeal a few minutes ago.

----

"Two chains for women and two kids chains!!" ordering the salesman, Jalal vigilantly surveyed the shop. It is one of the small jewelry shops in a narrow street of Delhi, just the right one that served his purpose- a shop with zero surveillance and accepts credit cards, thanks to his friend's driver that aided him with the address.

"Here sir...", the salesman duteously forwarded two trays of chains. Picking up trendy designs amongst the lot, Jalal ensured the total price met his targeted figure. "Pack these!!"

"Two lakhs, three thousand sir...", after calculating multiple times, the shop owner settled the bill happily gleaming at his rich customer.

"Swipe these cards... fifty thousand each...", handing over three credit cards and a debit card, Jalal instructed.

"Thank you sir..." briskly swiping one card after the other, the greedy owner tried to entrap the rich customer in his marketing skills. "We have latest models in rings too... would you like to see for your wife.

"My wife!!" swabbing the grim off his face, a compassionate smile dabbed his lips as Jodha's reflection flashed in the charming man's mind. "How'd she react if I offer her a ring...", a zesty thought flickered and the next moment, a visual of Jodha throwing the ring on his face, and tangling his neck also glimmered. "It'd be no less than welcoming death if I do such thing after last night's grave mistake... my incensed tigress will take life out of me...!!" Memories of the beloved woman resurrected his gaiety. "No thanks", darting the baffled owner a mischievous wink, the amused boss made his way out.

"Two lakhs...", envisaging the prey's plight after realizing the looting, a conniving smirk plunged out. Destroying the cards to debris, he dumped them in bin and steered the vehicle towards hotel. On the way, he removed the chains from boxes and trashed them along with the bills guaranteeing he carried no evidence of extortion back home.

---

"This is for your sister and this is for the lady operator...," forwarding two chains to the bewildered steward, Jalal stated.

"No sir...", overwhelmed by the unanticipated bestowal, the attendant hastily refused. "You already gave me money for what I did. I'm happy that I helped you, I don't want anything more."

Impressed by the loyal man's modesty, Jalal convincingly patted. "Don't you want the culprit to be punished?"

"Of course, I do sir...", the steward readily nodded.

"Then just listen to me. Keep this and tell your sister that it is a gift from a brother!!" the master player spelled magic with his words inflicting the attendant to accept the token of gratitude. "...and thank you so much for your cooperation. I highly appreciate it," shaking hands before parting, the grateful man genuinely acknowledged. "Also forget this incident here. Don't discuss with anyone."

"Sure sir... I'll not talk about it anywhere and thank you for this gift. I once again say it was my pleasure assisting you. Bye sir!!"

~~~

"What kind of missing could it be?" folding Jalal's blazer, the engrossed lady mulled. "As a friend or as a wife?" placing the neatly folded clothes on bed, she turned to the dressing table.

"...missed you my friend..."

"Did you guys reconcile?"

"In a way?"

"What does all this imply?" her fingers that were busily filing the items on table into a leather pouch ceased their action noticing his cologne bottle; eventually it reminded her of his fragrance. Taking it to hands, Jodha slithered down arching against the cabinet. Constantly starting at it, she impetuously started tracing the contour of its round curves feeling a strange attachment with it as if the bottle embodied his presence. Their hug in the car replayed but depriving her of peace, the image soon overlapped by Jalal and Aaliya's hug.

"Missed you too Lil!" recollecting the aching words, she darted an icy glare at the bottle. "LIL... how sweetly he called," thrashing the poor thing into pouch, her head swayed in disgust. "Her one cry was enough to make him forget everything... cha... how can he be so weak?"

"It could be a friendly hug, don't ignore the facts... they are friends...", the ever rational intuition voiced. "What friendly hug?" the proud ego fumed. "He saw me too after fifteen days, but neither said that he missed me nor hugged me!!" zipping the pouch, she got up and angrily dropped it beside the folded clothes.

"8:45 and sir is nowhere seen!!" returning to the couch along with Rasmalai box, she scanned around the room to assure nothing is left behind. "He became outrageous when I disclosed the incident, but didn't retaliate in any way thereafter. How could he forget it and coolly leave to party? Would he behave the same if it were Aaliya? How to understand this man... he noticed my liking for Rasmalai and got it but ignored such a grave incident?"

~~~

"Did you explain him everything?" accompanying his friend's driver to the valet parking booth, Jalal inquired.

"Yes sir... that cab driver is my friend. I clearly passed on your instructions," the driver nodded. "Pick up a man from room number 408 at nine, roam around the city till eleven and drop by a deserted road side, correct?"

"Absolutely...", the appeased man nodded. "He should be dropped as far from airport as possible. Here it is... money for petrol and a gift for you both for helping me." The delighted driver happily accepted the packet Jalal offered. "Call me in case your friend encounters any problem." After the driver left, Jalal stood still reevaluating his strategy. "Ramesh...", his eyes narrowed in fury. "Brace yourself for a penniless, destitute cold night in an unfamiliar city. By the time you regain senses, you'll be on road not knowing how you're assaulted and robbed. You've to go mad begging for help, but this is not end of it man. You deserve more, you should dread for what you have done and never in life think of touching any woman," resolutely turning back, he strode towards elevator.

"May be not...", biting the soft sweet, she tried reasoning. "When he memorizes every minute detail of me, there is no way he could forget the wrack-up. There might be a reason behind his quietude," snapping out of thoughts, she looked down to the box. "Seven!!" lamenting the speed at which she emptied three forth box, Jodha swiftly closed the lid. "If he's late by ten more minutes, there'll be nothing left except a clean box and spoon!!"

Folding legs up in the couch, she anchored the left cheek against palm and keenly gaped at their selfie. "We look good as a couple," a pleasing smile glistened her eyes, "...but they look better," imagining Aaliya beside Jalal, she grouched putting the phone aside. Resting head between palms, she fixed her gaze on the polished flooring. "This comparison is killing me. I can't be at peace till I surely know what Jalal has for Aaliya. Aah... who asked him to hug her?? He can console a weeping woman even without embracing!! Gosh he hugged me with same hands. Had I guessed it, I'd have taken turmeric water with me to thoroughly cleanse his hands before touching me!! How about taking him straight to Banaras and drench in Gangajal?? I too will dip thus liberating my body from Ramesh's ugly touch and HIS' from Aaliya's touch," a devilish thought chipped in.

"Dab..." the closed door disturbed the engulfed woman's rumination and her head lifted from palms, but the pensive posture already got registered in the ardent observer's mind. "Ramesh... you scoundrel... see the damage you have done to her!!" blithely ignorant of the devilish ideas smacking her brain, Jalal misinterpreted Jodha's cerebration as mourning. "Wish I could curb that memory out of you Jo...", a helpless sigh stemmed out of his heart.

"Sorry it took longer... were you bored?" plopping a majestic smile, he ripped the shoes off and approached her. "Here he is with a dangerous smile... don't fall for it," warning her deceiving heart, Jodha got up from coach.

"Cab will be here in ten minutes... let me pack and change... why didn't you order dinner?" moving towards closet, the concerned man enquired. "Mm... I had late lunch na... so was not hungry. What about you?"

"Done!!" Surprised by the empty hangers, Jalal turned back and Jodha signaled towards bed. Finding his stuff neatly arranged beside his cabin bag, a mellow compassion surged through his nerves. It has been long since he experienced this kind of pampering. As a grown up man he got habituated to attend to his necessities himself and there wasn't a woman after his mother who nurtured him - with Aaliya the situation was always different. Not that he yearned to be coddled, but Jodha's gesture awakened that long missed warmth in him.

"Thank you...", tenderly smiling, he moved to the bedside. "I was bored sitting alone, didn't understand what to do... so passed some time doing this...", giving an explanation, Jodha walked to him and proffered the sweet box. "Your remaining quota... finish it!!" Taking a pair of clothes to change, Jalal stared at the box and then at her. "I'm not so fond of sweets Jodha," a provoking grin smeared his lips. "... anyways, I don't see anything left there!!"

"Arre there are five more... see", missing the naughtiness in his grin, the worried lady innocently spattered the milk to make Rasgullas visible. "I ate only seven!!"

"SEVEN!!" his grin broadened and she fathomed his mockery. "Now I get it why you're not hungry," with a boyish wink, he quipped. "And I'm sure you're capable of finishing the rest in two minutes. If you are shy to eat before me I'll stay in bathroom till you complete, okay? I don't want to be cursed for bereaving you of your possession Jodha, the Tandoori warning is still fresh in my mind. So I don't dare touch this!!"

Spurting a thorny glare at his stimulating titter, the peeved lady closed the lid and slumped the box by his luggage. Unwitting to utter a word, she silently walked past him but was abruptly pulled back. With their breaths hardly inches apart and the veins at wrist gushing the heat of his touch all through her body, Jodha feared a panic attack.

"I... love..." his lips teasingly murmured imposing her breathe to accelerate and pupils to widen, "...the fire in your eyes when you are outrageously piqued Jodha. With a slashing glare and stiff nose, were you ever told how demonic you look like?" His twisted gibe bedewed the seeping tension in the nerved lady but his poking smirk made her dart a virulent glim. Her wrist in his grip mightily moved to set itself free, but to her dismay, it only tightened more. "Now that your angel is back, of course I do look devilish," with kindling envy, she gave him a final glare and looked away.

"Tch... tch... unfortunately there isn't a tree here for you to study or research... so you have no choice than looking at me," pleasuring at her striking side profile, precisely the shimmering cheeks, the enthralled man chuckled. "Jokes apart...", curtailing the urge to revel in the softness of her cheeks, Jalal forced the box into her hands. "I bought this exclusively for you Jodha, you exercise all rights on it, not even me. I want to see you relishing it to the fullest. Though I'm happy that you saved some for me, I'll be happier if you savor it all." The ardor in his voice acted as an antidote against jealousy inflicting her to meet eyes with him; the sharp deep black orbs are showering immense affection and she felt doused. "One more thing...," his voice turned serious yet gentle. "Though it sounds easy to say this, I do understand how tough it is going to be for you...", grief flickered in his eyes. "Erase last night happening out of your memory Jo, just wipe off EVERY BIT of it", he meaningfully stressed. "The more it lingers in your mind, the more distress you succumb to. So please try not to think about it." Surrendering yet another time to the august man's spell, Jodha hypnotically nodded; time stilled as they stared at each other with a faint smile brightening their features. Contended by successfully pulling her out of trauma, Jalal jested. "Now you carry on with mission Rasmalai, I'll quickly change and come!!" Joining his grin, the enamored lady replied. "However fond I'm of it, a dozen at a time is too tough a mission to accomplish. Let me buy in extra time of forty five minutes during drive to airport."

"Granted...", delivering a buoyant wink, he headed to washroom and the moment he disappeared behind washroom doors, Jodha sank to bed taking deep breath to propel the pent up tension out, unbeknown that her exercise is going to be a sheer waste. Ten minutes later when Jalal stepped out after a shower, decked in a black shirt n blue denims and smelling delectable, all the blown off tension resurrected and the frayed lady couldn't help cursing her stars.

En route to Indira Gandhi International airport, New Delhi

"Is anyone in Regal aware of your Delhi visit?" Taking a lead to mouthing her nagging suspicions, Jodha asked the first question.

"No... It's a sudden plan... other than Murali no one knows!!"

"Ok...", praying for her speculation to be wrong, she asked the next question. "Why did you come Jalal?" A day before when she spotted him in hotel, nothing mattered her than his presence, now after the unanticipated advent, she yearned to find out the reason behind his unannounced presence. "I mean you only said it isn't an important conference, then why did you come?"

"Why do you think I came?" scrupulously trying to read her musing, Jalal counter questioned.

"How'd I know?" detesting his counter attack, she fussed and he chuckled. "To meet a few fellow folks and my college friends, it's been long since I met them. Also to take a break from work," he conveniently fibbed.

"Is Aaliya one of those friends? He might have known that she's coming to this conference. That is why he showed up on second day instead of first day," a baseless theory instantly materialized in her clouded brain supporting her suspicions and thrashing the tiny hope that he actually came for her. Adding to her fury his phone rang.

"Hi Sameer...", with a pleasant smile, Jalal greeted the caller and Jodha's gaze drifted from him to window.

...

...

"So how did the lunch go?"

...

"That SHE is!! A deft financial and marketing strategist!! You'll not regret venturing with her," Jalal's remarks ignited curiosity in the silent listener in adjacent seat.

.....

"Oh... you're flying to Hyderabad? When?" Hyderabad + SHE + Marketing Strategist - connecting the dots Jodha deduced that Jalal was referring to Aaliya. "Deft Finance strategist... as if she's is the only MBA in this world. First thing tomorrow morning is to buy MBA books, it's just that I lacked interest in the subject all these days, I didn't think of it. Now that I decided to take up management, Ms.Finance Expert... wait and watch," pleased after deriving at an insane determination, her focus shifted to Jalal's talk.

...

"Yes... her decisions are always dynamic and drastic," an agonized sarcasm mirrored in his voice. Smoldering at the unpleasant flattery, the envy-stricken woman turned deaf to the angst behind Jalal's comments. "After killing his baby and looting 200 crores from him, he is praising her?!! How generous!! How kind!!"

"Tuck tuck", her rumbling deviated and eyes drifted to the source of sound. A boy and a girl in ragged clothes constantly knocked on the window looking expectantly at her. The little girl snuggled close to her brother as the shabby robe failed protecting from the chill wind. Though accustomed to such scenes every day, Jodha felt a strange tug seeing the brother's protective arm around his sister. Fishing for coins in handbag, she quickly looked at herself to locate some warm clothing- except for a scarf; she found nothing on her that stands against cold.

"Corporate or star hotel?" continuing conversation with Sameer, Jalal seized his jacket that rested in the seat between them and forwarded to Jodha. Discerning his gesture, she looked skeptical but he encouraged with a nod. Quickly lowering the window, the gratified woman offered coins, scarf and jacket to the kids, and they gleamed in ecstasy. Fondly seeing them move on to next car, hand in hand, a sweet smile smeared her face.

"Yes... she's smart in that matter...",

The rival's laud from Jalal's mouth disturbed her admiration; settling back in seat, she thrashed the window button and set out to zip the bag, which is when the indicia of his affection, the sweet box, seized her attention. "Sweets for me and sweetness for HER!! Smart, dynamic, deft... all sugary words for her!!" Storming the box out she looked for the kids, as she knew the sweet no longer tasted sweet. If she were to eat it, it'd only taste bitter!!

"I'll be happier if you savor it all," Jalal's warm message reverberated causing her to rethink whilst the vigilant man's gaze turned steely perceiving her action. "Why are you hesitating?? Dispose it... this Rasmalai only made you feeble. Drowning in the sweet and sweetness of his gesture, you forgave him completely forgetting how gladly he hugged your rival. And now he's hailing her before you and you're still vacillating? Don't be so shameless!!" the big fat ego prodded.

"Hey come here", she hurriedly called the kids as the signal turned green. "Take this!!" she offered and the girl happily smiled back, but the purity in the kids' smile drove Jodha guilty. The content she experienced while donating scarf went missing, as she very well knew her latest gesture was not out of charity. Closing the window, she leant back and closed eyes in introspection. Though faced away from him, she could perceive his questing glare scrutinizing her, but the innate stubbornness refrained her from answering his unvoiced questions. "Happy now? After hurting him?" her conscience despised. An awkward silence prevailed making rest of the journey uncomfortable.

-----

"Upgrade this one to executive class," forwarding their tickets, Jalal pointed at Jodha's economy class ticket. "Hey... that's ok...", breaking the barricade of silence, she tried to object, but her protest was instantly silenced by his solid glare. "Why does he fume when I should be the one to be angry??"

"Any check in baggage sir?" working on upgrading the ticket, the agent asked.

"Yes!!" the couple's hands cuddled the handle in unison and the next moment they looked up to each other. Leaving it to her, Jalal's hand retreated and he silently waited for the boarding passes, while Jodha looked on griping. "Oh... silently challenging me to lift it?" hissing at his passiveness, she lifted the heavy baggage with all her might, thumped on conveyer belt and triumphantly glanced at him. Alas, the poised man stayed unperturbed without a hint of mirth in him. "Uff... he's seriously serious as if I committed a grave sin. He can hurt me, but can't I, huh? Well... if he's so stubborn, I'm no less.. I'm not going to initiate any peace talks!!" mutinously following him to the security check, she hissed.

~~~

"Was she so offended by my teasing?" pensively peeking at her retracting form, Jalal pondered. Leaving him to his world of cogitation, Jodha trekked towards the duty free shop, as she's already tired with the unpalatable affair of sitting next to him with muted mouth. "Its certain that she deliberately donated them, to show me her anger or apathy, whatever it is, but why this sudden drift of mood? Is it because she inferred that I spoke of Aaliya? Is that why she's upset?" His retrospection paused observing her suddenly halt and stand agape. Following the direction of her gaze, he spotted a graceful mid-aged woman sitting alone and reading a book. Unable to identify the woman, his eyes shifted to Jodha only to find her stealthily tiptoeing to the waiting lounge beside the adjacent boarding gate. "What is she up to?" his brows squeezed into a baffled frown.

Silently framing herself behind the elderly woman, Jodha closed her eyes from behind and a shrill cry rushed out of the stupefied lady. "Crazy girl...", a doting smile flashed watching the fellow travelers dubiously eyeing his girl. Nudging Jodha's hands off, the lady got up turning back and an impulsive scream sprung out. "Hey... Jodha?!!"

Wondering who the woman is, Jalal pleasingly gaped Jodha's radiating grin; it seemed a wave of energy charged up her mood and body as she briskly came in front of the woman. "What a pleasant surprise!!" cheerfully screaming, Jodha swiftly bent to take the lady's blessings, got up and the duo side hugged. After that, they moved to a corner and Jalal could no longer hear their conversation though he saw them fervently chatting. Five minutes later, Jodha told the lady something pointing at him and very soon he found her brusquely treading towards him.

"Come with me," she hurried adjusting the tripping bag. "Where?" he asked bewildered. "I'll introduce you to someone, come," holding his hand in jiff, she forced him stand up. "Who's she?" left with no choice than heeding to her, Jalal intrigued as they headed to the corner. "Try to recognize if you can," Jodha challenged quirking a brow.

"Ma'm, he is Mr.Jalal Ahmed, Managing Director of the company I'm currently working with," introducing Jalal to the lady, she added. "His father and Badepapa are friends too." The lady greeted him with a charismatic smile and he equally reciprocated. "Did you recognize her?" Jodha teased turning to the confused boss.

"Seems very familiar, but I'm sorry...", giving up, he admitted his defeat.

"I expected," giggling at his sorry face, Jodha proudly introduced wrapping her hand around the lady's arm. "Meet the most legendary Kuchipudi dancer, Smt. Shobha Naidu, my dance guru." Jalal then comprehended why the lady appeared familiar. "Oh so sorry mam that I couldn't recognize you. Its my pleasure meeting you", his head bent for a respectful aadab taking Jodha by surprise while Ms. Naidu graciously smiled reciprocating his salutation. A pleasant warmth satiated Jodha's heart as she saw him doing a traditional salutation for the first time - the swanky businessman generally preferred a handshake.

"You might have got a good architect Mr.Jalal, but I so miss my Satyabhama", fondly glancing at one of her favorite disciples, the endeared teacher jested. "If she were in Hyderabad, she'd have accompanied me to concerts. I'm not sure if you ever got to see her dance, but she's an elegant dancer, very few are bestowed with such finesse."

"Satyabhama?" least aware of the facts about the mythological figure, Jalal asked inquisitive.

"Oh yes, Bhamakalapam is a popular Kuchipudi dance drama and Satyabhama is the lead of it. She's one of the chief consorts of Lord Krishna, a darling one indeed, famous for her anger, adamancy, jealousy and over possessive love for Lord Krishna. Jo being a born stubborn, enacts Satyabhama to perfection," laughing at her student's pouting face, Ms.Naidu lovingly tapped on Jodha's hand.

"I agree on the stubborn part though I haven't seen her dance act," Jalal nodded while Jodha groused at the pair that teamed up against her. Interrupting their colloquy, boarding to their respective flights was announced and Jalal excused himself leaving the teacher-student to have last few minutes of private talk.

~~~

"So your teacher also had a taste of your stubbornness? What did you do?" having comfortably settled in the plush seats, Jalal gibed. "There's a little story behind it," electrified by the unexpected encounter of her beloved teacher, Jodha spiritedly responded forgetting the cleft between them. "Ma'am was a guest to our school when I was nine. After seeing her performance, I was so thrilled that I instantly resolved to learn classical dance and only from her. She has a dance academy in Hyderabad, my father took me there but she refused an admission, as the classes were full. I argued, cried and chased her every week till she admitted me as her student. As a student too I troubled her a lot, getting quickly bored with repetitive practice, adamantly asking to teach something new every day, urging to spend more time with me mindless of her busy schedule. Hmm, it took three years for me to realize that she's not just my teacher, a busy artist trouping around the world with team for concerts. Of course, the realization dawned only after my mother's constant brain wash, she's the one who used to accompany me to classes," ending the narration, she cheerfully smiled.

"That explains why your teacher called you Satyabhama... anger, adamancy, possessiveness... what about jealousy?" leisurely reposing back, the enraptured man commented keenly awaiting her response.

"Is that a tricky question or a casual one?" speculating the intention behind his remark, the alerted woman meticulously studied him. "Of course I'm jealous," impishly admitting, she generalized her stance. "Everyone will be jealous of someone or the other at some point of time, I'm no exception. Were you not jealous of anyone ever?"

"I might have been as a kid, but not anymore," taking India Today to hand, he coolly replied. "Envy roots out of comparison and I stopped comparing myself with others!!"

"Right, but it is easier said than done Jalal," blatantly accepting, Jodha calmly requited. "At times, comparison becomes inevitable."

"For say?" looking up from the magazine, he stylishly kinked his brows.

"For say," quickly thinking of a subtle example, she paused. "Mmm... Samyu is my bestie, I'm possessive of her and if she pays attention to or appreciate someone whom I don't like, isn't it natural for me to be jealous?" molding the example to her situation, the effervescent lady demandingly raised her chin.

"A slight correction Jodha...", calmly meeting her questioning eyes, Jalal asserted. "If your friend IGNORES YOU and attend others or if she DEMEANS YOU and appreciate someone you don't like, then you're ought to be jealous." Intently observing the effect of his words on her, the perceptive man added. "How your friend treats you is all that should matter you!! As long as you are fairly treated, what your friend think or speak of others should hardly bother you." Awestruck by his convincing explication, Jodha thoughtfully looked on.

"By the way, who is your latest target of jealousy?" back to teasing mode, Jalal sheepishly asked. "For your kind information," an evil smirk twitched her lips. "Never ask such questions to a woman and expect an answer. It's a girl's thing, men can't apprehend!!"

11:20pm

"Dropped him 50kms away from airport!!" having received the awaited call, Jalal switched off the mobile as the flight gradually steered to runway. "I don't know if this is right, but I'll do everything in my reach to bring you Justice Jo. He has to pay for every drop of tear you shredded," staunchly pledging, he solemnly watched her contour. Glancing out of window, she seemed lost in thoughts.

"Last night... by this time," a quiver of aversion brought goose bumps to her body and she thanked Baba once again, whenever the incident rewound she couldn't resist thanking her deity friend. "Bye bye Delhi... a sweet bitter memory you are... I can never forget you and this trip!!" an angst sigh impulsively hauled seeing the city disappear behind clouds. "Where is Ramesh?" remembering that he's supposed to board the same flight, Jodha wondered. "Let him go to hell, why am I thinking about him?" Yanking out of sore deliberation, she fished the magazine cabinet only to find none of her taste, top of it; they belonged to her ever-enigmatic subject - Economics.

"When are you planning to go to Japan?" deciding not to waste the blissful last hours of trip with worthless thoughts or magazines, she initiated a conversation.

"Not yet finalized," turning to her, Jalal replied. "Probably in October."

"What if Toyota doesn't fund your research?" she looked worried.

"Next trip to Ford Germany then!!" he casually said.

"If they too reject?" she sounded skeptical.

"Hmm... then I have only one source," he mockingly sighed. "You!!"

Musically giggling at his wit, her head swayed. "If only I were that rich!!"

"Let's think you suddenly became a millionaire...", playfully arcing towards her, Jalal asked. "like you're given a hundred crores, what will you do?"

"I'll fund your research and if something remains, it'd go to my trust," without waiting a second, she gleefully answered. "But remember, once your research turns productive, you've to repay me."

"What'd you do with that money then?" smiling at her warning, Jalal quested.

"Expand the trust, what else!!" she coolly shrugged. "By the way 100 crores mean how many zeroes beside one?" counting zeroes over fingertips, the vivacious lady appeared very cute to the infatuated man.

"Nine!!" he promptly answered cherishing the play of her slender fingers. "By the way, why everything to charity? Don't you need money??"

"I've a home to live, a job to earn a living and...", she leant towards him as if sharing a secret. "...a fixed deposit of ten lakhs for wedding expenses," a confident smile brightened her eyes. "What else I want?"

"Hmm... well planned and all set!!" admiring the simplicity of her lifestyle, he quipped. "So when is the wedding?" Adjusting his eyes to the darkness as the lights switched off, Jalal inched closer trying not to miss reading her eyes.

"Happens... as soon as HE says YES!!" dramatically sighing, Jodha revealed.

"Who?" chuckling at her antics, he intrigued.

"Love of my life", dreamily rolling eyes, she secretively whispered. "I've always known him, but realized my true feelings only after distancing from him for two years. To pursue plus two, I was sent to a residential college and I couldn't even get a single glimpse of him for two years. It was then I realized I was madly in love with him, life without him was a living hell then." At that confession, the listener's gaze sharpened; a moment before when she started the tale, he presumed she's kidding, but listening to her citation, it seemed a serious affair. "Who is he?" an immediate question spurted depicting his gravity.

Ignoring his query, Jodha continued with the revelation. "Presently he's stuck with a lot of family issues, once they are sorted I'll propose him and I'm sure he'd say YES. There are vibes that he's going to divorce soon; I'm just waiting for that day.

"What?" perplexed by the twist in tale, the dazed man made a face. "Divorce?"

"Haa...", seriously nodding, Jodha snapped. "Didn't you hear the gossip that Hrithik Roshan is divorcing?"

"Idiot!!" her right arm that was in Jalal's hand's reach bore the aftermath of an irking crooked story. "Uff," brushing the area where he pinched, Jodha pouted. "How mean!! You only enquire about wedding plans and when I say, you punish me like this." Killing proximity, encouraging darkness and provoking pout greatly shattered the enticed man's poise; fathoming that it wouldn't take long for his face to descend on to hers had he eyed her for some more time, Jalal uncomfortably adjusted in the seat averting his attention from her.

"Your devious tales deserve only a punishment," he proclaimed.

"Arree... it's not a fib, it's true, I'm ready to marry Hrithik anytime. Anyways may I ask you something?" an excitement energized the vibrant woman and he skeptically nodded anticipating the evilness behind her queries.

"Did you ever love anyone? In school, college, in the US or now?" with thumping curiosity, Jodha ushered attentively looking at him.

"I DID!!" blowing her curiosity balloon bigger, the smart boss professed. "School, college, US and now, my love for one is unblemished." His statement confirmed the eagerly waiting woman that his answer is going to be a twisted one as usual. "Guess who?" he smirked and she pondered a moment before taking the intended name.

"Aaliya!!" Though her sapient intuition certified that Aaliya is not his love, she still muttered the name to satiate her heart. One word, a YES or a NO - one word that decides her future... with HIM and she patiently waited for him to utter that word.

"NO," the sharp orbs turned sharper as he stated. "Aaliya is only a friend." Tightly sealing lips to curb the plopping grin, Jodha posed a grave face whilst the rejoiced heart festively danced. The much-awaited clarification is here and it came as an overwhelming relief.

"Mm... a second guess... I'm sure I'll be right this time, so a small bet. What will you give me if I'm correct?" electrified by the disbursed suspicion barricades, she vivaciously asked.

"Anything in my reach and is reasonable," the gladdened man cautiously promised.

"Ok... deal," stylishly agreeing, she hauled a luring smile. "If I rightly understand you," squeezing brows into a pensive frown she announced. "Your all time love should be... Cars!!" In response, a mild chuckle emanated from Jalal's mouth attesting that her guess is absolutely correct.

"Yes...", raising her hand for a hi-fi, the revitalized woman winked. "I know you boss!!"

12:30am

"Wake up Meenu... come on..." posing a deaf ear to the continuous calls, the lethargic girl tossed under the sheet. "You are yet to revise third unit. Get up dear..." pulling the blanket down, the doting father softly called. "Third unit... heck!!" dreading the terrorizing chapter, the fifteen year old squirmed more snatching the blanket from her father. "It's ok if I fail Papa, but I will not revise that chapter!!"

"Idiot... you'll not fail... your score will fall and Sneha will become the school topper," reminding her self-imposed goal, Gautam began dragging her feet. "NO...", screaming loud, the drowsy girl tightly held the bed stead to save herself from being mercilessly dragged out of bed.

And Jalal's eyes opened in a startle!! A mighty tug of his shirt snapped him out of sleep and his perplexed glances shifted between the hand that bypassed the armrest to clutch the opening of his shirt at neck and the sleeping woman. Gently unwinding her clasp, Jalal tried to free his shirt as her grip was so tight that a mere pull seemed enough to rip the buttons off.

"Class topper or detesting chapter?" Undoubtedly the little one's paralyzed brain chose to sacrifice her goal than to wake up early in the morning for a distasteful revision. Hiding her face beneath the pillow, she rigorously nodded. "No revision... I'll write what all I remember. Please leave me na... please!!"

"Please... leave... please..." engaged in freeing himself, those incoherent words were all Jalal could make out of Jodha's murmur. A vigorous sway of head, clubbed by an anxious frown on forehead triggered a dire suspicion in him. "Is she dreaming of last night massacre? God!!" Tensed by the anticipation, Jalal swiftly bent aside to bring Jodha out of dream. "Jodha... Jo!!" softly patting the creamy cheek, he waited for her lids to open.

"Did Jodha get up or I'm coming with cold water?" Vasudha's loud threatening smashed the layers of slumber and the startled girl hastily woke up. "No maa... I already started reading... law of.."

Thankful to the sudden movement of her head, her stammering lips celestially crushed against his cheek and loitered for a moment arousing an exigent blaze in the besotted man. Benumbed by passion, his head involuntarily angled thus pressing his rough contour deeper against her soft lips. In flick of a second, the captivated man managed to steal a staunch imprint of her lips on his cheek. ".. diminishing utility states that..." her chanting lips swiftly brushed past his parted lips while she drastically drifted in seat. The kindling fire was just fuelled to zenith and conquered by desire the desensitized man lowered his head onto her!!

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

Originally posted by: Kalgi22

Res😃

Originally posted by: hemakeerti

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