SS; ABHORRENT BETRAYAL CHAP 26-28 Page 37 epilogue pg 38 complete - Page 26

CHAPTER TWENTY SEVEN

One week to presentation

Raman was of course not so mobile and Ankit and Abhimanyu had to carry whatever their work was to Ishita's place. Raman had been out of the hospital and Ishita spent most for time at home given Raman had sent Simmi and Romi away back to Delhi.

It was actually a bit odd because it was like even though she spent time with him, she was never actually there. She took care of him in every way but also avoided him in so many ways. The only time she talked to him was when Abhimanyu and Ankit were around. Raman found it a bit odd and didn't know where to start because the more he pushed the more she shut down and he could see she was more and more miserable each passing day.

'Raman you seriously need to crunch those numbers for tomorrow, we already do not have time...'' Said Ankit as she parked the filed

'Yeah... I know, they will be ready tomorrow'' He said his attention on Ishita

Abhimanyu and Ankit said their goodbyes and walked away and like always Ishita began. She got up, put all the files away and walked over to where Raman was helping him to go to his room but he stopped her

'Wait... No I am okay here...'' He said

'Okay... When you ready, please let me know'' She said

'Ishita I can walk myself to my room. Besides what happened? What did I do...'' He said

'Meaning...'' She said

'I mean I know what I did but it's like I did something else that I am do not even know that I have done so will you please talk to me'' He said

'Raman I am tired, I want to rest a bit so please can we just table this for tomorrow...'' She said

'That is what you said yesterday. We need to find a way to communicate Ishita. We are going back to Delhi in a week and everyone is expecting us to get married.'' He said but she just looked at him and walked away and he was at a loss of words because this was becoming a thing.

She walked to her room and freshened up before she came down and prepared his dinner. He was sitting at the dining table almost as if he was expecting her to be in the kitchen since the dining room was directly facing the kitchen.

She walked in, looked at him and ignored him. Grabbed her phone, dialed someone but then she hang up upset and began dinner. All the while Raman was just looking at her and he could see the worry and turmoil in her eyes. He had a few minutes before he gave up his fight and he was going to make the most of it.

She prepared a quick dinner, took about 45 minutes to an hour and she began serving.

'Oh wow... this smells delicious...'' He said trying to make small talk but she just kept quiet and continued setting the table

'I am sure I am going to love this...'' he said and she just kept on looking at him before she tried to walk away

'Hey where are you going...'' He asked

'To my room...'' She replied

'Why...'' He asked

'I don't follow...'' She replied

'I mean won't you have dinner...'' He asked

'I am not hungry...'' She said and she tried to walk away again

'Ishita... Wait...'' He called out making her stop and turn to look at him

'Ishu...Are you okay...'' He added

'Yeah...'' She said

'Well then what is it. Are you scared of me...? ' He asked

'Wha... What...'' She stammered surprised

'Are you scared of spending time with me... Because by you walking away every time you and I are alone only makes me think, you still feel something or you're hiding something. Which is it...'' He said and she just stared at him like he was crazy

Now you are going to have something to eat instead of spending the whole night staring at me...'' he said

'I am... What... I am not staring. And I am not hungry...'' She said before her stomach began growling

'I think your stomach begs to differ...'' he said teasing her a little and she began walking away again

'Ishita... Wait... ' He called out as he grabbed her hand

'Please just sit down and have something to eat. Share a meal with me come on... Please...'' He insisted and even though her head was telling her to just walk out, her heart wouldn't let her. She turned and sat back down and began to eat

He smiled and didn't say a word to her and she in turn didn't say anything out loud but all of them had inner turmoil that was just screaming to come out. Once she was done she picked up the napkin and wiped her mouth before she politely said

'Happy...''

'Yes...'' he said as he got up and began to clear the table and she helped him

'I have this really delicious desert that Ankit go me, you want some...'' He said and she frowned a little almost as if she was wondering what was happening before she said

'No... I am fine thank you...''

'Oh okay...'' He said disheartened but he wasn't giving up

'Any plans for tonight...'' He asked

'No... I am going up to my room. Good night...'' She said

'Ishita... It is barely 8 O'clock. You do not have to go to bed early just because you are avoiding me...'' He said

'I am not... I am not avoiding you... I just do not want to talk to you...'' She said

'Why not... What is so bad that you can't just talk...'' He said

'Because...'' She said but kept quiet

'Come on tell me... What...'' he insisted

'It is confusing for me. I am supposed to go to my parents in a few weeks and tell them I am not getting married. This... you and me... is very confusing...'' she said

'Ishita... You do not have to call off anything if you do not want to...'' He said as he moved to where she was standing

'Raman... Please... Do not make this hard for me. Let us just go back to hating each other and it will fly by faster that you know...'' She said

'I have never hated you and I am not going to start now...'' He said

'Well I want to hate you... I do not know why I can't because I really want to... It is the only why I know or hope that you feel how I am feeling...'' She said getting teary

'Believe me it hurt more than you know. I hurt you... And I don't know what else to tell you except, I am so sorry for everything...'' he said as he began to tear up too

'You hurt me really bad Raman and I have tried to hate you... God I have tried ... But I can't even hurt you right if I want to. I feel a piece of me dying every time you hurt and I know I shouldn't but...'' she said tearing up again

'Then don't... Please...'' he said

'Why not... I even wonder why you went ahead with the engagement anyway. I don't understand anything anymore...Was it out of pity? Was it because Shagun was taken? I second guess everything that I thought I knew...'' She said this time letting the tears flow that she so tried to hide from him

'That is not fair Ishita... I loved you and I still do...that's the only reason I asked you to marry me...'' he said his heart breaking

'I wish I could believe that. I so wish I could believe that Raman...'' She said

'What do you want me to do to make this better...'' He asked

'I do not know. All I know is this...I don't understand who I am anymore. My world is so dull and no matter what I try to do it is like it will never be colorful again... I am hurting all the time and I cry all the time thinking what if...'' she said then kept quiet

'What if what...'' he asked

'Nothing I am going to bed...'' She said as she got up and tried to walk away

'No... Do not do that Ishita please... I am begging you talk to me...'' he said

'What if Shlok was not in the picture? Would you have stayed with her? What if Shlok and I had dated, would I have been here? What if for some reason I say yes to us, will you break my trust again? What if you get bored will you do the same thing? What if you realize that this love that you claim to have for me isn't enough... Then what... What if when you finally make love to me I will be worse and she will be better. Will you compare her with me...? Every scenario I play in my head, I still end up hurting and I don't think I have it in me to take another kind of abhorrent betrayal like this. It might kill me and I am not willing to take that risk...'' She said sighing heavily as if she had just let off a 100 kilo of weight

'My God... Ishita'' He said not believing what he was hearing. She then let out a soft laugh before she said

'It is so pathetic and even sounds more depressing because I know I did nothing wrong and yet if somehow feels like I did. Shlok is mad if I choose to stay. He doesn't say it but I think he somehow blames me for all this. He then throws me this bomb then he walks away like nothing happened and now he is avoiding me. I have this guilt eating me from the inside and it is killing me. I have to be apologetic for the way I feel all the time. No one seems to consider what I am going through. My parents worry... I haven't spoken to my mother in weeks because every time she calls all she wants to talk about is the wedding that I am not even sure will happen. How do I begin to tell her something as bizarre as this? My own befriend and my fianc and ohhh there I that little matter of me and Shlok...'' She said tearing up a little

'So he finally told you...'' Said Raman much to Ishita's surprise

'Wait what...'' She said

'Look I cannot talk for Shlok but I made a mistake Ishita. I should have told you... I shouldn't have kept it away from you. Before we met I wasn't taking any relationship seriously and that was wrong. I know that now just please give me a chance to show you...I can be a good man Ishita just please give me a chance to prove myself... Am asking for one chance Ishita please'' He said as he took her hand in his and stood in front of her

Ishita wanted to walk away. It is the only way she knew how to deal with all this confusion but he put his hand in hers and when she looked into his eyes, she could see his honesty and remorse but her head couldn't trust what her heart was telling her so she pulled back and let go of his hand

'We have a long day tomorrow Raman... I need to go rest...'' She said and tried to walk away but Raman pulled her back

'Ishita... Please...'' he begged but she just kept shaking her head to say no

'Ishi...'' He called out as he pulled her in his hand on her waist while the other held the nape of her neck as he leaned in and kissed her

She wanted to turn away and in all honesty she tried but when she felt his lips on hers she felt weak in her knees and she gave in kissing him back. It was like she was possessed as she found herself putting her hands around his neck and she ended up kissing him with a yearning that surprised even her.

It took a minute or two before she pulled back her hands on her lips as she stood back staring at him like she had done something wrong and she broke down

'What is the matter with me? Why do I allow you to have this power over me?'' she said crying some more

'I am so pathetic... ' she added

'Ishita... Please... Don't...'' He tried to tell her but she was lost in thought

'What is wrong with me? Why does it feel like this?'' she said before she turned to Raman and screamed

'Why did you have to sleep with her? Why Raman... I don't understand...''

'Ishita I don't know how many times you want me to say that I am so sorry...'' He said

'Did you sleep with her after we met... You must have known how I felt... You must have known...'' She said tearing again

'Yes... twice... One the night we met and also at the Raven but that is it'' he said

'How about at the party at your house? She was early to that party, Shlok thinks you slept...'' She said but he interrupted

'I swear I did not. She kissed me but that is all. I called her out and told her not to try and see me again hence her drama. I never slept with her when I realized that you and I could be so much more. I felt so guilty and wanted to tell you so many times but I got scared that you would leave me. When Shagun told be about you and Shlok after the study group my mind went to the worst possible place and I began thinking you were doing to me what Shagun had done to Shlok and I ended up flipping out.'' He said his voice breaking

'My head went to the worst possible place and it began all this. It breaks my heart to see you broken like this Ishita because I know I put you here and I don't want to hurt you anymore. Just tell me what you want...'' he added tears streaming down his face

'I don't know... I don't... I have to worry about everything and Shlok...'' She said and a piece of him was breaking because he knew there could be a possibility she was contemplating Shlok and her

'God knows how bad I feel about everything even though that is not enough to make it up for all the hurt that I have caused. Even as I know how much I will love you and how much I want you to believe how sorry I am I can't force you to be with me.'' He said tears streaming down his face

'Meaning...'' She said

' I accept that I have lost and I hope he keeps you happy because you deserve it.'' He said

'What the hell are you even talking about...'' She said tears streaming down her face

'Shlok... The only reason you this distraught, is because of him. I mean I know you're angry with this but this, you right now, is about so much more and it is because of him. He hasn't come around here for a while and ever since he stopped you changed. I think you are unhappy now than you were when we got here, so I understand. It doesn't take a genius to figure out'' He said realizing that he was losing the most important thing in his life but he also understood that she deserved all the happiness in the world

'What the hell... Why does everyone imagine they know how I feel...? Stop making up things about me and just ask...'' She said as she began getting angry again

'Okay...'' He said and as if on cue, there was a knock on the door which Raman got up to go open

'He won't come in...'' Said Abhimanyu

'I understand... I will go out...'' Said Raman before he turned to Ishita and said

'Shall we...''

'Where are we going...'' She asked but he just kept quiet and walked out promoting her to follow him and you can imagine her shock when she saw Shlok standing outside

'Shlok...'' She said

'Thanks man for coming...'' Raman said

'Abhimanyu told me Ishita was in trouble...'' Said Shlok

'Because had he told you that I called you, you wouldn't have come would you. And I need to settle this. This back and forth thing we do is only ripping us apart and not helping anyone.'' Said Raman

'So what... You're trying to be self-righteous in front of her...'' Said Shlok

'Actually no... I am just tired of seeing the woman I love in so much pain and in tears and yet I absolutely have no idea what to do or say to make her feel better. She cries and she is sad a lot and I do not know what to say to her stop. I know this is much more than just Shagun and it is worse now especially after that birthday date of yours. Now fix this Shlok... You began this... Fix it. You two owe it to each other to figure this out...'' He said much to Shlok's utter shock. He then turned to Ishita

'Don't think about me or anyone. All that should matter is you. If it is me, I will be very happy and elated and if it isn't, that will be fine too and as hurt and agonizing it will be, I will take it. Do not worry about our parents, I will handle everyone...'' He added much to Ishita's surprise

'What the...'' Said Shlok who in all honesty was not expecting this

'By the way Shlok... I am really truly sorry about me and Shagun. I have never really apologized to you but I hope you know how sorry I am. Maybe one day you will find it in your heart to forgive me because I generally didn't mean to hurt anyone.'' He added then turned to Ishita again pleading his case on last time

'I have probably haven't done much to earn the right for you to pick me but I hope you do...I am so so sorry and I hope you see how much I love you...'' And with that he finally walked back into the house

It took everything in Raman not to break down in front of Ishita and Shlok. He was dying inside because he knew he may have signed his own death certificate because losing her was going to take everything in him to get over it and yet he understood that she needed to do this.

Shlok and Ishita stood outside that gate not knowing how to react to what had just happened. None of them expected Raman to react this way or do such a thing. Ishita turned and watched him walk away and she knew he was breaking inside

'Ishu...'' Shlok called her, causing her to turn and look at him

'I am sorry...'' He finally said

'No... I should be the one apologizing. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings Shlok you know that...'' She said

'I know and stop apologizing. It is fine...'' He said and she just looked at him as tears filled her eyes

'No... No tears. I will get over it. It is okay...'' He added

'It is not okay. You shouldn't feel like you did something wrong. I will do whatever you want just do not disappear like that. It has been hard not talking to you or knowing how you are. It is just...'' She said and he interrupted

'You really want to know what I want...'' he asked and she nodded

'Then follow your heart. What do you want...'' He asked

'I don't...'' she stammered

'No...No... Who is it you see here...'' he said pointing at her chest and tears just began streaming down her face

'You see, that is why I know... That the only reason you still haven't told him you forgave him is because of me. It amazing how you speak to my heart and yet you can't hear mine because where it should be, it is Raman's heart you hear instead. See the guilt you have is because you know as much as you care about me, it is not me you fell in love with and you feel like you somehow betrayed me...'' Said Shlok causing Ishita to cry as she said

'I am so sorry because I have tried, I swear I have tried not to but I just couldn't...''

'See that is why I am angry with you. I am not so selfish Ishita and nothing matters to me more than your happiness. I am just unfortunate that I could not be the one that give you that glow like he does. It was my fault. I had my chance and instead of taking it, I played games instead. He knew what he wanted and went for it.'' Said Shlok as tears filled his

'What can I do... Please tell me whatever... I will do it...'' She said as she took his hand in hers

Raman had left the gate wide open and he could see Ishita and Shlok through the window. Abhimanyu also came and stood next to Raman because even he was anxious to know what Ishita was going to do. When she took Shlok's hand in hers, Raman feared for the worst and looked away telling Abhimanyu

'Thank you so much Abhimanyu but you can leave now...''

'What... Whoa dude...'' Said Abhimanyu

'Look just use the back door and just leave...'' Said Raman and Abhimanyu could see Raman looked defeated

'You are sure you're alright...'' Abhimanyu asked

'Please Abhimanyu, I can't have you watch me like this so I am begging you please accord me the dignity and leave...'' Raman answered whose tear had begun filling his eyes

Abhimanyu how knew where he was coming from understood and got up and left through the back door.

'Ishita... I want you to be happy. Let yourself be happy. I will be fine you do not always have to worry about me and what I will do...'' He said holding her hand tight

'I am so sorry Shlok. I do not know what else to say... ' She said

'Just promise me that you will follow that heart of yours and stop holding back. Be selfish once in a while and put yourself first once in a while.'' He said tears filling his eyes

'Why are you talking like that? Why does this feel like goodbye...''She said

'Because I am leaving Ishita, I need to start over. I am going to London to live with my family ' He said

What... No... Is it because of me...'' She said

'Of course not...'' He lied

'Shlok...'' She said again

'I need to start afresh. I need inspiration. I need a break I just need to find myself again. ' He said and she wasn't buying it

'Don't lie to me Shlok. Be honest...'' She said

'Okay...My life has revolved around you for so long, not that am complaining by the way. I have loved every minute of it. But now everything has changed and as difficult as it is for me to admit, I know you're in good hands. He loves you Ishita and he will take care of you. It is just unfortunate that he found the one girl at campus to have a fling that happened to be your best friend.'' He said smilingly but tears streamed down his face

'Shlok...'' She called his name

'Listen my beef with him will take a while but I will get over it. My ego was bruised a bit but I will be fine. You however do not need to fight my battles. I hate to admit but technically he didn't cheat on you. Plus he had the decency to call it off before starting anything with you.'' Said Shlok casing Ishita to just look at him with pride as she cried

'I wish things turned out differently...'' She said

'Me too... I so wish the same but it wasn't meant to be and I will make my peace with it. You do not need taking care of I know that but it will make me feel better to know that at least some one is there with you.'' He said as he pulled her into a hug holding her tight as he cried and she reciprocated pulling him in and Raman who was watching all this couldn't control himself anymore and instead walked away from the window and went to his room

'You are a good person Ishita and he is a very lucky guy. I hope he knows it...'' Said Shlok as he pulled out and looked at her

He held the nape of her neck and kissed her forehead before he smiled and said

'No go before he does something stupid to himself. He looked like he was about to die...'' causing her to chuckle

'Goodbye Ishita...'' He added and she cried and hugged him one more time before she replied

'Goodbye...'' She said letting go as she watched him get into his car and drive off

Ishita stood outside the gate and watched Shlok's car disappear as she cried and it took a minute or two before she finally made it back inside. She thought she could see Raman in the living room but he wasn't there. She heard thumping in his room causing her to go and check what was going on.

When she got there she could see he had thrown things around in his room and he was throwing punches on the wall and hurting himself which scared her

'Raman...'' She screamed as she pulled him back causing him to collapse on the floor as he cried

'What are you doing?'' she said crying too

'I just... I can't... Please just go...'' he finally managed to say

'Why...'' she asked

'Listen Ishita you do not have to be humble I understand. I will talk to my dad and tell him everything is my fault that is why the wedding is off. Just please leave me alone for some time I am begging you...'' He said crying

'So you don't want to get married anymore...'' She asked

'What...'' he asked absentminded

'If you do not want to get married then it is fine, we shall call them together...'' She said

'But I thought that you and ...'' he said wiping his tears before he said

'Ishu please do not play with my feelings. It would be really cruel of you...'' He added

'You really thought I would pick him. Why would I when I am in love with you? I don't know why, in fact I do not understand why but I am...'' She said and Raman stared at her not even sure he was dreaming or hallucinating given everything

Meanwhile Shlok had driven off and he was dying inside and it took everything try and get it together but he knew this was the right thing to do. Raman in a way was right, her happiness had to come first and she didn't love him. It was something he had to get used to.

He grabbed his phone as tears streamed down his face because he had just a few things to say to Raman before he finally left. He dialed Raman's number. Raman who was still in his stance with Ishita staring at him felt his phone that was in his pants pocket buzz. He pulled it out still staring at Ishita before he looked at the caller id which caused him to receive it

'Hello...'' He said

'You treat her right. If I hear that she even shed a tear or was hurt in any way because of you, I swear Raman I will come down and hunt you down from where you will be and I will kill you. You hear me...'' Said Shlok and Raman who looked up at Ishita began having the whole scenario sink in that this was actually happening

'I won't hurt her. I promise you with my life...'' He replied and Shlok hang up and so did he

He crawled on his knees to where Ishita was and put his arms around her as she did him and as much he had a lot to say, all he wanted to do was cry. He had a lot he could have lost and yet here she was, with him. She had come back to him and to top it all up, she loved him. Even after everything else, she loved him and that was something he was never again going to take for granted.

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CHAPTER TWENTY EIGHT; SCROLL DOWN

CHAPTER TWENTY EIGHT

He crawled on his knees to where Ishita was and put his arms around her as she did him and as much he had a lot to say, all he wanted to do was cry. He had a lot he could have lost and yet here she was, with him. She had come back to him and to top it all up, she loved him. Even after everything else, she loved him and that was something he was never again going to take for granted.

'Oh God... You are here...'' He said as he pulled out held her face and began dropping quick wet kissed all over her face tasting her tears in the process before he pulled her in hugging her again

'I swear you won't regret this... I promise you...'' he said pulling out of the hug as he looked at her but he could see she had reservations

'What is it...'' He asked

'Nothing... It is...'' She said but he insisted

'No Ishita if this is going to work you're going to find a way to communicate with me. Keeping things bundled up inside won't help.'' As he sat down taking her hand in his and she did the same

'I love you Raman, I really want this to work but I just cannot bring myself to trust you. I have so many doubts in my mind about so many things and maybe my thinking is gullible but I do not believe in just sleeping around for fun. You need to have an attraction with someone to sleep together and there has to have been a feeling there for Shagun. You slept with her for a year Raman... How am I supposed to believe there was nothing there...'' She said and he could understand her reservations

'Okay I understand that and maybe I did have an attraction but that was just it. I never had feelings for her and I love you and only you...'' He said

'Oh God I want to believe that so bad but everything you say I sort of take with a pinch of salt...'' She said tears in her eyes

Raman came close and held her face looking straight in her eyes as he said

'I am going to give everything in me to earn your trust back. I know I have to earn it back and I will. All I am asking is that you openly give me a chance to earn it back...'' He said

'That is why I am here. Please do not break my heart again. I will not be able to handle that...'' She said holding his hands

Raman pulled her in kissed her forehead before he hugged her saying

'I won't, I promise...I will spent the rest of my life righting this wrong... I swear...''

Ishita pulled him in and hugged him relieved for the first time that maybe, just maybe this was going to turn out okay. There was no hesitation on the fact the she was utterly and completely in love with him even with all her hesitations, being in love with him was the only one thing she was sure of.

The situation was getting a little too tense and she wanted to make it a little lighter, so she pulled back and began giggling as she said

'You look horrible by the way when you cry...''

'What...'' he said letting out a soft laugh

'No really you do...'' She added causing him to laugh as he wiped his tears away

'I am sorry...'' She finally said

'Why are you apologizing...'' He asked

'Well... For those...'' she said as she pointed at his tears

'It is okay, I deserved it anyway...'' he said

She looked at him and him at her almost as if they both knew that it was going to be okay. She came close to where he was and with her right hand wiped the tears that had been streaming down his face before running her hand down his chin to his lips.

He was still distracted with the hand on his face when he felt her left hand hold the nape of his neck as she pulled him in their noses almost touched. She then looked at him and smiled feeling his breath on her skin that was all do daunting. She stayed there, so close and yet didn't close the gap between them almost like she was waiting for him to close it himself

At this point Raman was a bit hesitant and wasn't sure how to go about this. Was he to kiss her or was he going to let her lead this the way she wanted to. He saw her smile in very flirtatious way before slightly letting out her tongue and licking her lips before she bit her lower lip. Ishita let out a soft laugh and looked at him as she whispered

'Are you going to kiss me or not...'' He laughed softly as he brought his hand forward caressing her cheek and lifting her chin such that their lips almost touched.

Ishita could feel the warms of his breath on her lips and this just drove her desire to kiss him even more and she came forward to meet his lips. He arched back a little all the while looking into her eyes before his eyes run down her nose to her lips before he came back again savoring a moment that he had waited for so long to happen. And she understanding just let him take it all in.

He brought her closer again this time his one hand on her waist while the other held the nape of her neck tilting her head a little running his nose down an inch such that their lips touched. They both longed for this moment and they were going to savor it.

It was a kiss so soft, so loving, so longing so lusting and yet so emotional in a way that only two people so in love could understand. They breathed their love, their souls, their pains; their promises in that one kiss that was all so long overdue.

Raman kissed her and he could feel her tremble a little just before tears began streaming down her face given he could taste her tears. He pulled back and looked at her asking

'You're okay...'' and she smilingly kissed him first before she said

'I am... And I love you...''

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It had been a very long and eventful night that even none of them did not see coming. They had forgotten that they had an important meeting that morning with their project partners that when Abhimanyu and Ankit showed up that morning, none of them expected to see what they saw.

'Raman...'' Called Abhimanyu who walked through to the kitchen but still no one was there

'Let me check for Ishu...'' Said Ankit as she made it to Ishita room only to come back a few minutes later saying

'She isn't there...''

'That is odd...'' Said Abhimanyu before he put the files down and decided to go to Raman's room to check and Ankit followed him

When they got there, Raman's room was so disorganized and there were clothes everywhere and things scattered all over the place but in the middle of the room, there was Raman and Ishita fully dressed holding each other as Ishita rested her head on Raman's chest while he had his hand around her. They had a duvet covering them but they were so asleep and looked so peace that that Abhimanyu was so shocked to even say a thing

'What the...'' Ankit tried to talk but Abhimanyu interrupted

'Shhsss...'' he whispered

'What... As adorable as they look, we seriously need to get to work...'' Said Ankit

'I know but can we at least go out then bang on the door or something...'' Said Abhimanyu

'Oh God you're such a baby...'' Said Ankit before she walked over to them and pulled the duvet off waking up Ishita

'Hey love birds... We have a lot of work remember...'' Said Ankit

'Oh God what time is it'' asked Ishita

' A quarter past 9... Wake up...'' Said Ankit

'Oh sorry... Just give me 10 I will be ready...'' Said Ishita looking at Abhimanyu who was mouthing

'I am sorry...'' causing her to smile and say

'Well... Can you leave, I need to get ready...''

'Right...'' Said Abhimanyu walking out and taking Ankit with her

Ishita turned to Raman who was still sleeping and smiled remembering all the making out that happened the night before. She put her hand on her chest and rested her chin there before saying

'Raman... Come on wake up...''

'Hmmm a few more minutes...'' He mumbled

'No... Come on it is getting late. Abhimanyu and Ankit are already here...'' She said causing him to open his eyes and say

'Why the hell are they too punctual anyway...''

'Hehehe because they are professional... Now come one sleepy head...'' She said as she tried to get up only for Raman to pull her back causing her to crush on his chest

'Raman...'' She said

'Tell me, last night actually happened...'' He said looking at her and she smiled leaned in and kissed him as she replied

'Last night actually did happen...'' and she got up and walked out of his room

It took about 40 minutes for everyone to be ready and start work because in all honesty they really didn't have enough time left. There were less than 6 days left and they still had a few things remaining. Ankit of course was not as optimistic as the rest so she was in panic mode all the time and Ishita had to continue reminding her that all was well.

Work was resumed and after about 8 hours of balancing books and making phone calls to make sure everything was in place, they were done. They took care of everything and all that was remaining to do was waiting, for a couple of samples that Ankit had been working on.

'Okay anything else...'' Asked Ankit

'Nope...That is it. Everything is done and we are waiting on your samples...'' Said Ishita

'What about the proposal that we were to give to Akash...'' Asked Abhimanyu

'I did that last week, It has already been approved and will be sent here tomorrow'' Said Raman

'Okay how about books of account...'' Said Ankit

'Audited and signed for clearance...'' Said Abhimanyu

'We are ahead of schedule. Relax and I trust my project and what we have done so it is okay. We got this...'' Said Ishita confidently

'Really...'' Said Ankit

'Yes... Really ...'' Said Ishita

'Everything remaining there is nothing we can do except wait...'' Said Raman

'Okay... But I wonder what I am going to with my time till then...'' Said Abhimanyu

'Come out with me...'' Said Ankit much to everyone's shock

'What...'' Said Abhimanyu letting out a soft laugh

'Yeah go out with me, It could be fun...'' She said again and Abhimanyu was a bit a loss of words

'Okay I need to understand something. Are you asking him out, Like on a date or just going out as friends...'' Said Ishita

'Well whatever he is comfortable with... What would you prefer...? An outing or a date...?'' Asked the very forward Ankit

'Uhhh...'' Said Abhimanyu and all the while Raman was just sitting there, with Ishita's hand in his enjoying Abhimanyu fidget with words

Ishita turned and looked at Raman and even he couldn't notice that he had been holding her hand for the most part of 45 minutes. She smiled at him before she turned to Abhimanyu and said

'Well Abhi, what would you prefer...''

'I don't...'' he said

'Oh chill... It is fine if you do not want to go.'' Said Ankit as she got up from where they were seating and began parking

'Will you just calm down. I would love to go out with you but on one condition...'' He said causing her to turn and look at him

'What...'' She said

'Will you at least stop pretending you do not like me?'' he said much to everyone's shock and she smiled shaking her head as she said

'Fine... But I am not doing the whole hand holding thing like them...'' Said Ankit pointing at Ishita and Raman

'Hey...'' Said Raman defensively and Ishita began to laugh

'Fine... So say it. In front of them, I want you to say it...'' Said Abhimanyu

'Say what...'' Said Ankit

'Really... You want to play dumb now...'' He said

'Am we missing something...'' Whispered Raman to which Ishita answered

'I think we are...''

'Okay... I like you... More than a friend... Happy...'' She said shyly as she looked away

'See... That was not so hard now was it...'' Said Abhimanyu

'Can we go now...'' She said embarrassed as she grabbed her bag and walked out before she said

'Goodbye you guys...''

'Bye...'' Said Ishita and Raman

'I got to go...'' Said Abhimanyu grabbing his keys

'Oh hell no... We want details...'' Said Ishita

'There is nothing to tell. We worked together; I liked her, asked her out a number of times until she finally said yes. She wanted to keep our relationship on the low, I didn't hence we took a break until right about 5 minutes ago...'' He said trying hard not to give too much away

'Hold up... How come I never knew any of this'' Said Raman

'You had more important things to worry about that my love life...'' He said grabbing his bag before he said

'I need to go before she changes her mind...''

'Right... Bye... Have fun...'' Said Ishita

'Oh and Abhi... Thank you...'' Said Raman, Abhimanyu acknowledging him before he walked out

'Well that I did not see coming...'' Said Ishita

'Yeah... Me two...'' Answered Raman

'But they do make a nice couple...'' Said Ishita as she tried to get up

'Yup they do indeed...'' Said Raman as he pulled her back

'Raman...'' She called out laughingly as she sat back down

'I am starving, I need to go get something to eat...'' She added

'We can order in... ' He said

'Or I could just prepare something...'' She said as he pulled her in putting his hands around her

'Or we could just order in and wait while you and I...'' He said leaning in trying to kiss her

'No... I will just weep up something, it won't even take too long...'' She said smiling leaning in and kissing him before she walked to the kitchen

Raman smiled as he watched her walk away still not believing that this was actually happening. She had given him a second chance, something that seemed like a distant reality.

Ishita felt more at peace than she did when this whole Mumbai trip began. She could now say she was getting back to her old self and even though she and Raman still had a lot of work to do, they were on track to the right direction.

She had made her choice and she was happy, more than happy and she just hoped that it all worked out in the end. She was still feeling guilty about how things with Shlok ended and even if she knew he would be happy for her, she still felt bad that he had to go through all that heartache.

Raman walked up from behind putting his hands around her as he rested his chin on her shoulder.

'What are you thinking...'' He asked

'Nothing...'' She lied

'You're worried about Shlok aren't you...'' He said causing her to turn and look at him

'You're a good friend Ishita, you know that...'' He added

'Yeah I wish that was enough. I wish there was something I could do. Should I call him?'' she asked

'You could, or you could give him some space. Grant him time to heal...'' Said Raman

'You think so...'' She asked hesitant

'Yeah I do. How about you call him tomorrow or better yet go see him before he leaves...'' He said

'Yeah maybe I should do that. Will you come with me...'' She asked

'I think I am the last person he will want to see...'' Said Raman reminding Ishita about how awkward it would be

'Fine...'' She said leaning in kissing him before she turned again

Raman put his hands around her again this time holding her tighter than before

'Uhh Raman... I need to cook. I can't do that with you holding me like this...'' She said letting out a soft laugh

'I just can't help it and I do not want to let go...'' he said causing her to laugh as she said

'Fine... Order in...'' Turning as she looked at him

'Really...'' he said

'Yeah... Besides I am in no mood to cook anyway...'' She said

He let go and walked back into the living room grabbing his phone as he dialed. Ishita followed not so far behind

'Can I ask you something...'' She said

'Sure what's up...'' he said

'How did you know it was my birthday...'' She asked

'What...'' He said acting surprised

'I mean, there was no way you would have known that it was. So how did you find out?'' she asked

'To be honest, I had no idea...'' He said

'Then the gift, the dress... Who did that...'' She asked to which he hesitantly answered

'Simmi... She asked around and she found out and thus...'' Causing her to look at him with a surprised expression

'It really was just a small thing. And I paid for it so technically it came from me...'' He said trying to explain himself and she folded her hands and looked at him

'I am sorry I didn't know what to do. Shlok was taking you out to this really romantic date and I was getting jealous and Simmi just wanted to help. I am sorry please, do not be mad...'' He said and Ishita who couldn't keep it in anymore threw her head back and began laughing

'Oh My God calm down I just wanted to know how you knew that's all...'' She said

'Oh...'' He said letting out a soft laugh

'Remind me to thank Simmi when I see her next...'' She said

'So you're not upset...'' He asked

'No... It is actually quite sweet that you tried.'' She said

'Ohh Thanks...'' He said

'Is this from her as well...'' She asked holding the pendant around her neck

'Uhh No that one was from me...'' He said proudly

'Really...'' She asked surprised

'Yeah... It was my grandmothers and it meant a lot to me. I figured who more worthy than the woman I love to have it.'' He said and she smiled looking at him

'Well this was my favorite gift of the day... Thank you...'' She said coming forward and kissing him

'You're so adorable when you're nervous...'' She said laughing

'What... No... I wasn't...'' he said even finding it hard to find an excuse and they both broke into fits of laughter

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

6 Days later

'Oh God I am so nervous... I swear I can't...'' Said Ankit who was freaking out

'Calm down... It is going to be fine. Just walk in there and show them why we need to win this...'' Said Abhimanyu

'Raman why didn't you just talk to your dad...'' Said Ankit

'Look it will be fine. I trust in what we did. Besides Ishita wouldn't let me...'' he said

'Because then it would have been unfair to everyone else. I know we are going to kick ass so just chill...'' Said Ishita before she picked up file to read

Shagun's group had finished their presentation and Ishita's was coming up next. Shagun walked out of the board room almost bumping into Raman who was standing by the door

'Oh Sorry...'' Said Raman looking up only to see Shagun

'Oh Hey Raman...'' Said Shagun causing Ishita to look up at her

'It is so good to see you...' Said Shagun and Ishita who really didn't want to deal just pulled her glasses in and looked down in her file again

'Good... I have been good...'' Said Raman who really wanted to avoid the conversation

'So are you ready for the presentation.'' She asked and Raman who could see Ishita from the corner of his eye really just wanted Shagun to go away already

'I really cannot chat, I have a lot of work...'' He said

'Oh right understand. How about you and I, catch up after this whole thing is done?'' She asked

'Wow you really don't give up...'' Said Ankit but Shagun just ignored her

'I can't... I have this whole engagement party thingy that my dad organized and wedding preparations given I am getting married in 10 days'' Said Raman proudly causing Ishita to smile with her eyes still in her file

'Wedding... Wait... What... I thought...'' Said Shagun as she turned to look at Ishita but Ishita couldn't look at her

'Yeah Shagun... Wedding... I am engaged you know that.'' Said Raman

'But I thought... Where is Shlok...'' She asked

'Oh he left for London. It was something about leaving all the old poison behind, starting a fresh. I don't blame him...'' Said Ankit who was clearly insulting Shagun

'What is your problem...'' Said Shagun looking at Ankit

'My problem is you and your drama and trying to mess with their heads just before we walk in. Just go away already...'' Said Ankit who was still visibly nervous and Shagun with all that embarrassment walked away

Raman walked to where Ishita was seated and sat next to her not saying a word because the guilt was swallowing him inside and Ishita knew it. She with her eyes still in her file held his hand and squeezed it just to comfort him that everything was okay. He let out a silent sigh of relief as he squeezed hers back

'Hey red team, its time...'' Called Akash leading them in as he said

'Good Luck...''

Ishita walked in with her fellow group members following just behind her. Abhimanyu and Shlok connected the projector while Ankit handed out the files just before Ishita began. She explained how they went about their projects and what it entailed.

Raman also took his turn talking about the different accounts and contracts. Abhimanyu was instructed handled the proposal and Ankit surprisingly did her thing with the fashion and sampled she had.

Mr. Bhalla sat in that board room looking at his son who had suddenly become a man. He seemed different and happier. As everyone was listening to them, Mr. Bhalla beamed with proud almost screaming at the top of his voice that, it was his son. There presentation was thorough and well put together. Everyone knew what was needed and what was expected of them.

They thanked everyone for their time and gathered their stuff and walked out to the waiting area where everyone was waiting for the results. Shagun saw Raman walk in and he in turn saw her. She walked to where he was and he turned trying to walk away but she grabbed his hand

'Raman wait...'' She said

'Oh ho Shagun you are going to get me into trouble...'' He said

'Just... Please hear me out...'' She said causing him to stop moving

'I am sorry... About how things turned out, I really didn't mean for it to go that far...'' She said

'I think that apology should be for Ishita, not me...'' He said

'Raman Please...'' Said Shagun

'I am not saying this to be difficult, I really mean it.'' He said as he looked around searching for Ishita

Ishita who was waiting with Abhimanyu outside couldn't stay in the waiting area and wanted to be the first to know when Akash came out with the results. Akash walked out with the results in his hands. He pinned the results up, clearly showing who had done well, who had been retained and also the most awaited prize of it all, who had won funding.

Ishita couldn't bring herself to check so she sent Abhimanyu as she waited impatiently for the answer. He walked back from the notice board, tears in his eyes as he hugged Ishita saying

'We got it... We won Ishita...'' and she excited as well screamed in excitement as she hugged him back

'Oh God we need to tell Raman and Ankit...'' Said Abhimanyu as he let go of her and together they rushed into the waiting room

Ishita saw Raman and run to where he was crushing into him as she hugged him tears filling her eyes. Raman a bit surprised held her tight asking

'Ishu... What is it...''

'We won... We won Raman...'' She said excited

'Oh My God...'' He said lifting her off the ground as he held her tight

'I can't believe it...'' He said

'Yeah... Oh God... We actually won...'' She said letting go of his embrace before she kissed him

They were in their world oblivious to their surroundings and Shagun for the first time had a front view of what Ishita and Raman had. She realized that whatever she thought she would salvage, it was never going to happen. Ishita could see from the corner of her eye that's someone was standing there and looking at them and when she turned she could see Shagun.

She turned and stood next to Raman with his hand still around her waist as she said

'Sorry... Didn't see you there...'' before she turned to Raman and added

'Did I interrupt something...'' To which Raman replied

'Of course not come on I want to see the look on Ankit's face. I bet she is freaking out...'' Said Raman

'Sure you go ahead, I need to talk to Shagun...'' Said Ishita much to Raman's surprise

He turned to her and kissed her cheek before he walked to where Ankit and Abhimanyu were. Ishita smiled at Raman as he walked away before she turned looking at Shagun

'What...Are you going to gloat?'' asked Shagun

'Actually no... That is your thing not me.'' Said Ishita in a very calm demeanor

'What do you want?'' Asked Shagun

'Nothing...although I have just one question for you. What did you hope you achieve? I mean was it worth it. I mean was it worth it destroying our friendship over'' Asked Ishita

'I do not have time for your moral lectures...'' Shagun answered

'I know you Shagun... Your ego won't let you admit it but I know you. I do not need to give you a moral lecture to know that you know you were wrong. And I also know you are so narrow-minded and selfish that you might do something ridiculous...'' Said Ishita much to Shagun's surprise

'Who the hell you think...'' She tried to talk but Ishita interrupted

'No... Gone are the days I allowed you to treat me that way. And let me make myself clear, I am going to do everything in my power to protect my relationship with him. As I have come to find out, being a Bhalla comes with a lot of power and I also have the one thing you cannot have...'' She said turning Shagun around

'Him...'' Said Ishita pointing at Raman before she added

'Now I dare you, give it your best shot...'' And with that she walked away

Shagun watched Ishita walk away not believing it was the same Ishita she knew as her best friend. A lot about her had changed and she was more confident and more self-aware which was something Shagun thought she would never see. She had lost, she knew it and she so wanted to apologize to Ishita and tell her how sorry she was but her ego and pride were too much.

She had destroyed a relationship so true like the one she had with Ishita over some boy who didn't even care about her. She betrayed her best friend in the most abhorrent way that Ishita's behavior was not a surprise because she knew she warranted it. She deserved it and she was to leave with the consequences.

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

EPILOGUE NEXT PAGE

THE EPILOGUE

'Okay we need to seriously need to stop meeting like this. I mean there has to be a middle ground somewhere...'' Said Shlok

'I agree... Maybe we need to find one day every two months where we make it a point to meet and catch up...'' Said Raman

'I am all for that except try convincing your workaholic wife that...'' Said Shlok

'Oh God tell me about it...'' Said Raman as they both laughed

'She does love her work...'' Added Shlok

'She is good at it and it makes her happy. That all I can ask for...'' Answered Raman

'Where is Abhimanyu anyway...'' Said Shlok

'He is around here somewhere... Oh speak of the devil...'' Said Raman as Abhimanyu joined them

'Hey Shlok... Finally you decide to grace our presence... Jesus you need to move back here...I don't think I can handle any more of these shopping sprees'' Said Abhimanyu

'I know... I am actually working it out. Sarika's work is here and I think she misses home a lot...'' Said Shlok

'Oh yeah... How is that beautiful fianc of yours...'' Asked Raman

'She is doing alright. She is with Ishita I think...'' Said Shlok

'Hahaha I am still surprised they haven't come complaining about her yet...'' Said Raman

'Oh yes, she still hates shopping to date...'' Said Shlok

'Ishita doesn't like shopping?'' Asked Abhimanyu

'Oh God she dreads it... I think she is more comfortable walking into a board room and taking to a bunch of CEOs than she is shopping...'' Said Raman causing all of them to laugh as they waited for the ladies outside the boutique

'We should go grab coffee whilst we wait...'' Said Shlok

'Yeah I agree...'' Said Raman and they left to go to a nearby caf

Meanwhile all the girls had gathered and were all catching up on lost times and pretty much gossiping as they enjoyed shopping. Ishita as always just sat down while everyone else tried on clothes

'Oh God Ishu who would have thought four years ago, that you and Raman would be celebrating your fourth anniversary.'' Said Ankit

'I for one didn't... Wow you two had a lot to work through...'' Said Sarika

'Yeah I know but, we finally got through it. And now I can't imagine my life without him.'' She said

'Awww...'' Answered all her friends causing her to blush

'Enough about me... Oh God Ankit I cannot believe that you are getting married...'' Said Ishita

'Me... What about Sarika...'' Said Ankit

'I have to say though I did not see that coming...You and Shlok... Wow'' Said Ishita

'Yeah well... When he left for London I sort of got offered job with this company and I figured why not. We stayed in touch, got to know each other and I don't know. It just sort of happened and before I knew it, he was proposing...'' Said Sarika

'Your happy I can tell and so is he. Oh God he looks good...'' Said Ankit causing Ishita and Sarika to laugh as they answered

'Yes he does...''

'Right... So it isn't just me who thinks he is a bit more buffed up...'' Said Ankit

'Yeah he works out a lot... But so is Abhi and do not get me started on Raman...'' Said Sarika

'I am not complaining...'' Said Ishita

'You know, they say when one gets married all those things disappear...'' Said Sarika

'What things...'' Said Ankit

'You know, taking care and wanting to look good since they are already married and so find no reason to. I don't think I can handle that...'' Said Sarika

'What... Who told you that...'' Said Ishita laughing

'Oh God it is true and they say after you're about 2 years in, the sex pretty much becomes a time tabled thing...'' Said Ankit as she tried on more clothes

'That is utterly ridiculous...'' Said Ishita

'Ishu it is true...'' Said Sarika

'Okay speaking as the only married one in this scenario. Every marriage is different and you cannot base your experiences on others. You make your marriage what you want it to be...'' Said Ishita

'Oh please you're just lucky that Raman is kind of a health buff who would walk on the hot coal bare foot if you asked...'' Said Sarika causing Ishita to laugh

'Actually he is not a health buff. He hates working out and stuff like that.'' Said Ishita

'Oh please so he just looks like that...'' Said Ankit

'Well not exactly... We work out together... It is actually so much fun...'' Said Ishita

'That explains that tiny waist of yours...'' Said Sarika causing Ishita to laugh

'And about the sex, just keep things interesting. And can I tell you something... Once you're married, anything is fair game. If you have partner who is open minded... Anything goes...'' Said Ishita biting her lips causing Sarika with an open mouth to slap her slightly as she said

'Oh God you s**t...'' And together they laughed

Raman, Abhimanyu and Shlok had finished their coffees and had come back to the mall to pick the girls since they had to get back to the Bhalla mansion for this anniversary party. They walked into the mall talking about everything stupid only for Abhimanyu whose attention was so divided bumped into someone

'Oh I am so sorry...'' He said

'It is Oka ...'' and before she could finish she looked up and all of a sudden her face went pale

'Shlok... Raman... Abhi ...'' She said

'Oh hey...'' Said Abhimanyu as he turned for Shlok and Raman to look at the person who was calling them

'Shagun...'' Said Shlok in a surprised way

'Hey...'' Said Raman

There was an awkward silence for a minute or two as Shagun just stayed standing there with her shopping bag as she looked at them

'Well this is awkward...'' Said Abhimanyu

'Sorry...'' Said Shagun who realized she was staring

'Oh hey...'' She added moving forward shaking both their hands

'Hello...'' Said Raman

'Hey... How are you...'' Said Shlok

'Good... My God you have changed so much...'' She said

'I hope that is a good thing...'' Said Shlok

'Yeah it is, a very good thing...'' Shagun answered

The girls had walked out of the boutique and they could see the guys standing not so far ahead talking to someone. They each with 2-3shopping bags except Ishita who had just one made their way to where they were

'Hey hon... You are going to love what I got you...'' Said Sarika as she walked ahead and kissed Shlok and he kissed her back before she turned and said

'Oh hey...'' And it took a second for her to properly asses who that was

'Hey...'' Shagun said politely

'I am Sarika... the fiancee ...'' Sarika said

'Oh I am Shagun...'' Shagun said only for Sarika to complete

'The ex-girlfriend I know...'' She said looking at Shagun before she said

'Come on I need to show you...'' And she grabbed Shlok's hand taking him away

'Oh uuhhmmm bye...'' Said Shlok turning around and following Sarika

'Excuse my friend she doesn't like any of his exes...'' Said Ishita as she walked ahead standing next to Raman

'Hey...'' She added

'Hey Ishu... How are you...'' Said Shagun

'I am good... You...'' Said Ishita

'I am okay. You look so good...'' Said Shagun

'Thank you... I feel amazing...'' Said Ishita looking at Raman before she added

'You don't look so bad yourself...''

'Yeah well I try...'' She said letting out a nervous soft laugh

'Ishu I am really sorry for...'' She began to talk but Ishita said

'It is okay... Bridge under the water... I forgave you...'' Causing Shagun to tear up a little

Ankit looked at all this and just grabbed Abhimanyu's hand and walked away with him not wanting anything to do with Shagun or her drama.

'Thank you...'' Shagun said wiping her tears before she added

'Maybe you and I could catch up one of these days. I see you a lot of TV these day and I know you're a busy woman but we can find time and link up. I miss you...''

Ishita looked at Raman and then back at Shagun and said

'Listen it would be idiotic of me to invite chaos in my life that is so settled now. I forgave you a long time ago but you and I closed that road back to friendship and I do not think I want to open it again. I hope you're happy and find happiness but I just can't...'' She said looking at Shagun who looked like she was expecting that every same answer

'Goodbye Shagun...'' Said Ishita

'Goodbye Ishu...'' Answered Shagun and with that came to an the end the journey of that friendship that was once all too strong

Raman took his wife's hand as they walked out of the mall and couldn't be more proud.

'I LOVE YOU, YOU KNOW THAT...'' He said causing her to smile kissing him on the cheek as she replied

'I love you too...'' as they walked out

'Raman I swear you need to take me on a ride one day on this thing...'' Said Ankit as she began moving around staring at Raman's bike

'Are you kidding me? Please half way through the ride you will begin screaming you lungs out. She doesn't like it when I drive too fast in a car what will happen on a bike...Much less one Raman is riding'' Said Abhimanyu

'Oh please you're a horrible driver...'' Said Ankit

'NO... You just like for me to drive like a grandma...'' Answered Shlok and they began arguing again causing everyone to break into fits of laughter

These were the new bonds Ishita had created, bonds so strong and loyal they could be binding. And for all that betrayal that she had endured bore these amazing new relationships that she loved and treasured and knew would last a life time.

*******************************END*******************************