Dill Mill Gayye (Season 3) My version - Page 2

Part:8

Siddhant parked his car on the driveway and then slowly opened the driver's door and got up from the seat. There were too many things going on in his mind that he can't fathom, on top of that, he didn't feel good with the excess food Padma shoved down his throat. He pressed the lock button on his key remote and then walked his way towards the entrance door. As he was about to press the door bell switch, Kaka opened the door and greeted him.

Kaka: Aao beta.

Siddhant: hmm

Siddhant tiringly entered the house.

Kaka: Itni der laga di? Kuch hua hai kya beta?

Siddhant: Nahi kaka. Barish ke wajeh se...thoda der hogayi.

Kaka saw the distress washed over his face, he clearly felt uncomfortable.

Kaka: Kya hua beta?

Siddhant: Kuch zyaada hi kha liya maine.

Kaka: Hehehehe! Acha aap fresh ho jayye. Main aapke liye kuch le aata hoon.

Siddhant: ji.

Siddhant then walked up his stairs and then entered his room and slowly closed the door. Kaka's eyes followed him until Siddhant entered his room. He then walked towards the kitchen and then pulled out his mobile phone, and started text messaging to someone.

Siddhant tiringly got rid of his black blazer, and then slumped on his bed. He took off his shoes one by one. Feeling a bit relaxed, he loosened his tie and then threw it on his sofa. He heaved a huge sigh and then took a towel and then went to the washroom.

Radhika locked her doors and then slowly climbed upstairs entered her room. As she pushed the switch, the entire bedroom suddenly bathed in bright light, relieved from the darkness it was in. A small smile appeared on her lips as she reminisced that moment, where Siddhant just generously sheltered her from the rain, the way he just patiently stood beside her and held the umbrella while nearly getting wet himself just made butterflies bump in her tummy. He was always like this, and this was the one reason why she loved him in the first place. The way he simply looked at her, with those dark brown intense eyes, just sends shiver down her spine. She blushed as she reminisced that, she looked over her dressing table and saw the picture of Siddhant adorned in a photo frame. That picture was given to her by his mother, so that she could search for him, ask people where he might be, and now...God has paved a way for her in such a fashion that they're both neighbors, that she can clearly see him if she peeked over her window. The moment she found out that he lives in this neighborhood, she immediately rented the bungalow adjacent to his, only because she needed to keep an eye out for him, to see that after a tough day's work, is he worried or relaxed, but more importantly, she wanted to be close to him. At times she feels like as if she's a spy or a stalker, and she would always mentally scold Siddhant for making her feel like this, but she also knows that it's necessary since her ultimate job was to let Siddhant's parents know that he's alright. As she gazed at those dark brown pools in the photo frame, she gently caressed his motionless face and wondered when the day will come when he realizes who she is. She smiled and slightly patted her head for daydreaming like a fool. She carefully kept the frame back on the dressing table, took her night gown and a towel and went straight to the washroom to take a hot steamy bath.

After a few moments, Siddhant came out of the washroom, rubbing his hair vigorously, trying to dry his hair so that he doesn't fall sick. He wore a black night pant and covered himself with a robe. As the rain stopped, and the cool winter breeze filled the atmosphere, he felt like sitting on the balcony and think about certain things. He looked to his left and saw glass of coca cola sitting idly on the table with a note beside it.

Kaka: yeh pi lena beta, behtar mehsoos karoge.

A small smile appeared on his lips, he wouldn't be surviving if it weren't for Kaka. He tied up the laces of his robe tightly, took the glass of coke and went to the balcony and sat on his rocking chair. As the moon started to shine behind the clouds, the entire neighborhood bathed in the moonlight. The dew drops reflected and sparkled like diamonds; he inhaled a big breath of this earthy aroma and exhaled, feeling better already. He sat back and started rocking his chair slightly, letting his mind cloud him with questions. As he took a sip of coke, he started wondering what God was planning for him. Here he is, trying as hard as he can to cut himself from the past, and the past just keeps haunting him. It's as if he's playing a cat and mouse game with his life. He intended to stay far away from Riddhima as possible, but his ex-mother-in-law made him promise to be always there for her. It was a very selfish thing to ask from him and she knows that, but she's desperate and he knows that, it's what any mother would do for the well-being of their children. But would he able to keep that promise? Considering how much history he has with her? He literally named his mind, heart and soul for her, and to be rudely separated from her and then come back trying to be her friend? Is that even possible? He flinched thinking that no matter how hard he tries, he will always have a soft spot for her and that he will always care for her, and what horrified him the most is the thought that being just mere' friends with Riddhima would bring his long lost memories back to haunt him again. He gripped his glass even tighter just thinking that and heaved a huge sigh just wondering the spheghetti he tied himself up in. Just then sound of windchimes brought him back to reality, He didn't know why but the melodic sounds the windchimes were making started to ease him up a bit. He looked for the source and gazed straight ahead to find a beautiful young girl sitting on a chair, wrapped in a thick shawl, sipping on a cup of hot coffee. He couldn't distinguish who she was and since he doesn't like oogling at another girl, he was about to turn his head away when he saw a familiar face. As she pushed back a strand of hair, she revealed her face to her crush unknowingly. Her face was completely bathed in the moonlight, as if the moon's attention was fully on the beauty sitting on the balcony, looking ethereal as ever, Siddhant gazed at her intently. Radhika Singhania...another question mark in his life, as he kept on gazing at her, he didn't even realize that all his thoughts shifted aside and it was just pure silence. All he saw was how happy she looked and how she kept on gazing at the full moon shining brightly. He scoffed thinking how happy she is while putting him in a pool of questions. Who is she? Why does she matter to him? Why is she significant enough to be in his mind? More importantly, why does he see her wherever he goes? As he saw her slight wavy hair flowing in the breeze, he reluctantly admitted that she is rather beautiful.

Siddhant: Men must claw their eyes out to be with her.

Radhika enjoyed the wind embracing her; she had never seen a night so beautiful like this, the way the moon just kept shining, made her feel warm inside. Just then she received a text message.

Kaka: Aapne jo kaha hai maine kiya. Achi baat hai, koi toh inki fikr karti hai.

Radhika smiled and continued sipping her coffee. Just then she felt like someone was watching her. She looked for the source and immediately found Siddhant gazing at her. As soon as Siddhant realized what he was doing, he quickly turned his head and concentrated on drinking his coke. Radhika smiled widely and blushed miserably. Siddhant felt like an utter fool to be gazing at a colleague. He peeked at her with the corner of his eye and saw Radhika still staring at him with a rather mischievous smile that said caught ya'. Siddhant then turned away and gulped down the glass of coke and quickly went inside, shocked as to what he was doing, he looked at himself in the mirror and saw himself shockingly blushing.

Siddhant: ...my God.

He quickly turned off the lights and untied the robe and went to sleep.

Radhika: How sweet!

Radhika couldn't help but feel great seeing his reaction. It seems she does have the power to get his attention. She just smiled widely and shook her head thinking about his reaction. She finished er cup of coffee and then went inside. Love was filling in her heart as she turned off the lights and hummed a melodious tune. She kept the empty cup on the table and laid flat on the bed and wrapped herself with a thick blanket. She turned on a nightlight, and shut her eyes with a smile on her face.

Radhika: aaah...

The next day

"Haan...maine Armaan ko I Love you bola. Lekin...tumne mujhe pyaar ka matlab samjhaya."

Siddhant frowned in his sleep and flinched.

"Humesha...yehi teen shabd bolke mujhe ehsaas dila te rehna...ki tum humesha mere saath rahoge."

Siddhant tossed and turned in his sleep.

"Siddhant aap...mano ya na mano lekin...mere liye iss shaadi ka ehmiyat bohot hai. Ab yeh rishta hi meri sachayi hai. Ab aap hi meri sachayi ho...mujhe farak parta hai."

Siddhant: (Gasps in his sleep)

Riddhima(in a dark tone): Wake up Siddhant. Time to start another miserable day.

Siddhant woke up with a jerk, his heart racing beating fast and he was sweating like anything, as if he ran a marathon. Siddhant looked around his bed, wondering how he heard Riddhima's voice. It felt so real to him, as if she was right there, but her tone seemed so sinister, as if she was mocking him because of his state. Siddhant sat up and shut his eyes tight, trying to calm himself down. He then wiped the beads of sweat forming on his forehead, and sighed looking at his pathetic state. Whatever he heard, whoever that voice was, it had the right to mock him. He was sadistic and a broken human being and he knew that. He got up from the bed, wore his sandals and slowly went towards the looking glass on his dressing table. He took a good look at himself, scars almost covered his body as if he fought a war, his rugged face, his dark intense eyes, and his sorry excuse of a life, which is nothing but sad and pathetic. During his time in Shimla, he thought of taking his life away countless times, but it was his duty as a doctor that kept him going, it gave him a reason to live his miserable life, but he couldn't ignore the fact that he is just hollow inside, no life in him, he is just a dead man walking. As he stared at his face, blood began to boil in his veins. He looked so pathetic, it made him sick, and before he even realized, he lost his cool.

Siddhant: AAAHHH!!!!

Siddhant puched his reflections with such a force that it shattered the entire mirror, he was sick and tired of his past haunting and mocking him like that. He took deep breaths, trying to calm himself down while his eyes burning with raw anger. Kaka came rushing to his room hearing the noise and swiftly opened the door and saw Siddhant looking down at the floor with his eyes wide open, shards of mirror and the drops of blood coming from his bloodied fist covered all over the floor.

Kaka: Baba?!?! Kya hua?! Yeh kyun kiya aapne?

Siddhant: (no answer)

Kaka: Aaiye, main daway laga deta hoon.

Siddhant: Nahi Kaka.

Kaka: Bhagwaan ke liye mere baat suniye. Chot bohot gehra hai, daway lagana zaruri hai.

Siddhant looked at him and scoffed sarcastically listening to his statement. Kaka then held him and made him sit on the bed. He quickly rushed to get the first aid box, grabbed it and then sat in front of Siddhant while Siddhant just looked ahead. Kaka held his hand in his softly and gently as if he was holding a new born baby. Siddhant gazed at him as he took out the bexisol, a wad of cotton and a wrapping cloth from the box. As Kaka attended to his wound, he realized he wouldn't have made this far without this man. Not only was he a caretaker of his house, he has been a mentor and a teacher of life. As he led a poor life, he knew a lot of moral values and Siddhant was always fascinated by it. Siddhant and Kaka met each other when Kaka was looking for a job as a cook. Siddhant knew, no matter how hard he tried, he wouldn't survive in that godforsaken neighborhood somewhere in the city of Shimla. The amount of crimes that used to happen in his neighborhood sometimes got him baffled. There were days were Siddhant used to get attacked by street gangs asking for money, and they used to torture him until he gave up. Siddhant would come home all injured, barely walking and Kaka used to tend to his wounds and tell him that he's always there for him whenever he needed him. That's when he realized that Kaka was a man of principle and would never betray him, so he promoted him from a cook to a housekeeper. Kaka would take care of his den, and Siddhant would learn his values and implement them, a good deal. He would tell Siddhant to fight for himself and for other's and to never give up, that's when he started feeling a slight balance in his life. He self-trained himself by learning martial arts and hand to hand combat. By doing that, living in his neighborhood became easy for him. This is how he transitioned from being a boy to a man, and Kaka's influence on him has been nothing but fruitful. But as he saw Kaka tending his wounds, he saw nothing but pain in his eyes, and he knew...he hurt him.

Siddhant(lowering his gaze): Mujhe maaf kar dijiye.

Kaka: Itna gussa theek nahi hai beta. Dekho kya haal bana ke rakh diya. Kitna dard hua hoga.

Siddhant: Dard sehte sehte...ab koi dard mehsoos nahi hota mujhe. Puri zindagi dard saha hai, aadat ho gayi hai mujhe.

Kaka looked at him with a slight anger in his eyes.

Kaka: Aap yeh jo kar rahe hai na, who sirf aap ko hi nahi, dusro ko bhi thes pohchata hai.

Siddhant just kept on gazing at him.

Kaka: Bhale aap ke saath kuch bura hua ho, lekin iska matlab yeh nahi ki wahan aapke zindagi rukh jaaye. Aapke paas bohot saare wajeh hai: aapke pariwaar, aapke doston, aapka kaam, woh kaam jo dusro ke madat karne ke liye bana hai. Jiss baba ko main janta hoon...woh aisa nahi hai.

Siddhant listened to him attentively.

Kaka: Aur haan...aisa kabhi mat samjhiye ga, ki aap akele hai. Aapke zindagi me aisa bohot saare log hai, jo aapse behat mohabbat karte hai, bas aapko yehi baat samajhna hai, aur intezaar karna hai unke liye. Yaad rakhiye ga.

Siddhant slightly frowned thinking to what he meant while Kaka smiled softly. He finished wrapping his fist and pinned it in a fixed position.

Kaka: Aap naha ke niche aajayye, main aapke liye nashta tayyar karta hoon.

Siddhant had a small smile on his lips and before Kaka could bring the broomstick to clean the floor, he stopped Kaka and hugged him tightly. Kaka smiled and stroked his head like a father.

Siddhant: Thank you.

Kaka: (chuckling)

They both broke off the hug, Kaka patted on his shoulder while Siddhant nodded in approval. After Kaka left the room, Siddhant took a towel and carefully dodged the shards of glass and went to the washroom.

At Sanjeevani

Riddhima opened her locker and took out her lab coat and her stethoscope, but during the whole time she had been thinking about Siddhant, and how uncomfortable he must've felt last night. What she did to him, she could never forget it in a million years. If she it was anyone else beside's him, he would've straight told her parents that she cheated on his ex-husband and now happily married with the guy sh cheated...but this was Siddhant: a man, who would always do the right thing, do things before thinking twice, and would never hurt anyone, even if that person sent him a trip to hell and back. Siddhant...he was so true to his name, a man of honor and principle. His bond with Padma also made her realize that how high her parents think of him, and that they loved him as if he was their own child. After the reunion between Armaan and Riddhima, Armaan asked Shashank for Riddhima's hand four months later. Shashank and Padma both were hesitant at first but Anjali was able to convice them and the date got fixed. She knew that her parents never liked Armaan but she hoped that Armaan would win their hearts. During her wedding day, as she sat in her room looking like a bride, her mind would drift to the day when she first married Siddhant. She wished that he would be in her wedding day, but nobody knew where he was, he cut of contact with everyone, even with his own family. But at times, she would feel a familiar presence as she sat on her room alone, that same warm feeling whenever she was with Siddhant. She thought he was here, but her search for him went in vain. She settled herself on the bed and calmed herself down, and kept on thinking about the man she was about to marry. But no one...not Armaan, not even God can change the fact that Siddhant will always be...her first husband. She closed her locker and decided that it was time to talk to Siddhant face to face, try to mend old bonds.

Armaan: Hey basket.

Armaan's voice brought Riddhima back to the present and she was quickly engulfed in his arms. Riddhima responded back to his hug.

Armaan: Were you thinking about me?

Riddhima's smile started to disappear, she knows how Armaan is: charming, handsome, hot, a proper lover, but can sometimes get ridiculously insecure and that's the part she doesn't like about him. She took a deep breath and thought, it's safe to try.

Riddhima: I was thinking about last night. About Siddhant.

Armaan's smile slowly disappeared. His wife thinking about her ex-husband...that's never a good sign. He was already feeling left out by his in-laws but now his wife? He needed to hear her completely before jumping into conclusions.

Riddhima: The way he kept dodging their questions...I...I felt guilty Armaan.

Armaan started to feel a little relieved; his mind was reeling into so many things. OMG Armaan he looks sooo good!' He sooo handsome now!' I think I'm starting to feel something for him again Armaan.' But her statement eased him a bit, and what she said was completely true.

Riddhima: They kept on asking why we got divorced...and at times I felt that he would tell the true reason. But he never did.

Armaan: He wanted to protect us...protect you actually.

Riddhima looked at him with shock in her eyes.

Armaan: And I agree to him...Riddhima we have no idea how your parents might react if they knew the real reason, and this is a secret I'm willing to take to my grave Riddhima.

Riddhima: But Armaan...

Armaan: Riddhima...i can't...afford...to lose you again. If we tell this to Papa, there are tonned he can do. He can separate us, he can kick us out of his home, he can...

Riddhima: I get it.

Armaan: Riddhima I know...what we did...to Siddhant...it was unforgivable...and I thought that it was nothing harmful...but now I know...what a crime we did to him.

Riddhima: and to see him...cover all that up for us...

Armaan: And I'm really grateful to him but...I don't think we can ever be friends Riddhima.

Riddhima: Why not?

Armaan: There's too much tension.

Riddhima: You can try right?

Armaan: Dunno...

Just then JP and Jiggy comes into the LP, and sees Armaan and Riddhima looking into each other's eyes.

JP: oho! Kya baat hai Armaan bhaiyya? Yahan bhi shuru ho gaye?

Armaan and Riddhima turned towards JP's position, hearing his ridiculous remark. Armaan smiled at him and got up on the sitting bench dramatically.

Armaan: Dr.Malik ko mohabbat karne ke liye koi jagah nahi lagta. Who jahan bhi jaata hai, wahan sirf pyaar...pyaar...aur pyaar hi rehta hai.

Riddhima snickered looking at him.

Anjali: How dramatic.

Anjali entered the LP and shook her head looking at Armaan.

Anjali: You'll never change...would ya?

Armaan: Heeelll noo.

Anjali: (sigh)

Atul: You know how he is Anjali. You ever expect him to change?

Armaan climbed down and both of the buddies shared a hug. The interns joined the gang but were immersed in their own conversations.

Shekhar: Do you ever think anything besides girls and cars?

Vishal: Nope.

Priya: Then why the hell did you ever become a doctor?

Vishal: EGAD!!! You said hell'!!!

Avantika: uff!

Vishal: Look Miss Puppy Gayab, you mind your own business okay?

Shekhar: Puppy Gayab?

Vishal: Yeah! She looks like as if she lost her puppy. (laughing)

Priya couldn't help but fume listening to him say that. Just then Vishal heard the clacking sound of high heeled shoes and he started feeling funny inside. He knew exactly who that woman was. As she was nearing him, his surrounding felt like a scene cut straight from a bollywood movie: wind blew out of nowhere, sound of music ringing in his ears, heart beating fast, girl approching at him in slow motion. Priya and the other two interns wondered at whom he was gazing so dreamily, and they looked out and saw Radhika, looking as beautiful as ever. They couldn't help but conceal their laughter. As Radhika approached towards him smiling brightly, Vishal almost held out his arms trying to hug her but she passed by him.

Radhika: Hello Dr. Vishal, hello interns.

Shekhar, Priya, Avantika: Hello ma'am

Vishal(dreamily): A very beautiful morning ma'am.

Radhika: Isn't it? I thought so too.

Vishal: (smiling like a goof)

Shekhar(whispering): Have some respect, she is your senior doctor.

Vishal: I like elder women.

Priya: Ay chee!

Avantika: Shekhar just leave him, he's insane.

Radhika came up to her locker and smiled at Riddhima. Riddhima, went up to her to greet her.

Riddhima: Hi!

Radhika: Hi!

Riddhima: Hey, did you have any trouble getting to your home, yesterday it rained heavily.

Radhika: (sigh) Don't ask. It started raining out of nowhere, and it happened so heavily that no transport was available.

Riddhima: oh my god. How did you get home?

Radhika: You won't believe it. Okay, so I'm waiting at the bus stop for transport, and I see that there's not a single vehicle roaming anywhere. I sat there feeling hopeless, with my bag to cover my head, and suddenly I felt something sheltering me. I looked up and saw...Dr.Siddhant.

Riddhima: Whaat??!?!?

Radhika: Yup, apparently he was passing by the road and saw me; it was raining so heavily that I didn't even notice the car halting. He offered me a ride home.

Riddhima: Dr. Siddhant has always been like that, looks like he hasn't changed.

Radhika didn't mind being friends with Riddhima, it didn't hurt anybody. But she wanted to see how Riddhima would feel like if she knew Radhika stays next to Siddhant, but in the end she scraped that idea.

Vishal: Isn't she beautiful?

Avantika: very much, and very much out of your league.

Vishal: Oh yeah? Hehehehehe! Challenge accepted. I'll try to attract her towards me. I mean seriously, who can avoid this hunk?

Shekhar (laughing): good luck with that!

Vishal: (mocking his laughter) we'll see.

Just then Kirti comes in and instantaneously, the interns straighten up and prayed that she didn't overhear them. Kirti went straight for her locker and greeted the doctors with a slight smile on her face.

Riddhima: Ready to start your day as the DO?

Kirti: Not The DO', assistant DO.

Riddhima: yeah I meant that.

Kirti: Hell yes, I'm ready.

Just then her smart phone beeped and she took it out and saw a message from Siddhant.

I'll be at Sanjeevani in about 5 minutes, I want the doctors prepped and ready for briefing

Kirti read the message and her heart just sank, the staff of the hospital wasn't ready yet, and if Siddhant comes in and sees doctors half asleep and all messed up, he's going to rant off on Kirti.

Kirti: Oh my god...

Radhika: What's going on?!?!

Kirti immediately rang the receptionist.

Kirti: He's on his way, tell everyone!!

Just then Nikki comes in, feeling amused as to her brother-in-law controls everyone on the tip of his finger.

Nikki: He's not supposed to be here until nine.

Kirti: Well I dunno, he's coming right now!

Abhi followed Nikki into the LP and smiled seeing how tensed Kirti was.

Abhi then walked out of the LP room and stood in the corridor.

Abhi: ALRIGHT PEOPLE GIRD YOUR LOINS!!!

As soon as the staff heard him say that, everyone single personnel went into overdrive, they instantly got the news that the Great Hitler is coming. The interns got the message and scattered in different paths, trying to be ready. Muskaan and Rahul ran and stopped at LP.

Muskaan: I know he's all good looking and all but, this guy needs to chill man.

Rahul: I've never seen the hospital like this.

Kirti(arranging her files in a hurry): Well, he wants everyone to be ready.

Armaan: Seriously, I feel like I'm in an army camp.

Kirti: Well it wouldn't have come to this, if we all did our work properly.

Abhi: True.

Armaan: Don't you feel a little disconcerted that your little brother bosses you around?

Abhi: No Armaan, he's just doing his job.

Nikki: He might look like a Hitler, but when the day's finished, he's just like my brother-in-law. Never forgets to take care about us.

Both Riddhima and Radhika smiled thinking about it, while JP stood there all sad.

Kirti: Oh crap he's here. Everybody let's go.

Everybody ran to the Reception, waiting for Siddhant to come.

At the Reception Room

Everybody was waiting for the DO to arrive. As they were waiting, they saw people step aside to pave way for someone and they knew it was him. The gang kept on gazing at Siddhant while he marched through the corridor busy with his cell phone. Just then Shubhankar arrived and settled beside Kirti.

Shubhankar: Oh god I hope I'm not late.

Kirti: You're just in time.

Rahul: look at him...what a hotshot.

Muskaan: Don't be jealous, he's a cool guy.

Riddhima was about to look at Muskaan when something caught her attention. The dreamy, cute but dangerously bold look Radhika was shooting at Siddhant. Riddhima kept staring at Radhika and couldn't help but smile looking at her. She leaned towards her...

Riddhima: Earth to Radhika.

Radhika: huh? H...uh...

Riddhima: hehehehehe!!!

Radhika blushed miserably, being caught by the ex-wife. She looked away as her heart kept beating fast. Siddhant looked up from his cell phone and saw the doctors and the interns waiting patiently for him.

Siddhant: Good you're all here, but before I start...

He slowly turned towards Vishal; the interns already felt their legs trembling in fear.

Siddhant: Perhaps you didn't take me seriously. When I said that Sanjeevani is one top-ranked hospitals in the country, I expect you...to at least take that seriously...DOING YOUR DUTY HALF-WAY AND LEAVING YOUR PAPERWORK INCOMPLETE IS NOT THE WAY DOCTORS HERE DO THINGS YOU FAGGOT!!!!!

Everyone got shocked listening to his remark. Siddhant genuinely was angry, it was upto him to straighten things up and he didn't like the fact that things aren't going the way he wanted. Vishal looked at the floor with anger boiling in his veins.

Siddhant: If you're too lazy to do your job then you better get the hell outta here. I said it before and I'll say it again...Sanjeevani is not desperate to have you. You better start doing your job properly son, you haven't seen my worst. Either you treat patients, or you don't do anything at all. I don't wanna see anymore irregularaties regarding you, you understand?

Vishal:...(nodding)

Siddhant: Say the words!

Vishal: I understand!

Siddhant took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down. He looked at Kirti with seriousness washed over his face.

Siddhant: Dr.Kirti, please brief the doctors while I go meet with Dr.Shashank.

He looked at Vishal

Siddhant: There's something important I need to discuss with him.

Vishal felt as if his heart sank, reporting this to Shashank would mean nightmare. He prayed to God to stop Siddhant if he even had an ounce of good inside him. He then looked back at Kirti and handed him a file which stated everyone's duties and trotted away. Radhika exhaled deeply.

Kirti: You know Dr.Vishal, I wish you at least try to do your job properly. Alright your duties...

Siddhant marched towards Dr.Shashank's cabin and stopped in front of the door. He then gently knocked on the door until he heard a voice.

Shashank: Come in.

Siddhant open the door slightly and he entered gently.

Siddhant: You wanted to see me?

Shashank: Ah yes! Well, there has been a problem down at the Lonavla Orphanage. Some of the kids fell really sick due to the winter and the supplies been running low. I need you to head over there along with a good pediatrician; Dr.Radhika is specialized in this field. I would ask you and Dr.Radhika to go there tonight and attend the children.

Siddhant: Of course sir.

Shashank: You're going to be staying there for about a week, til then Dr.Kirti will handle hospital. Let Dr.Radhika know about this.

Siddhant: Yes sir. Anything else?

Shashank: Yes...take care of yourself.

Siddhant: hehe. Will do sir.

Shashank: Good, that's all.

Siddhant gave a slight nod and exited his cabin. He then looked left and right and then paged Radhika.

Radhika was at the OPD when her pager beeped.

Come to my cabin, need to discuss something with you.

Radhika felt her heart flutter, Siddhant wants to see her. Then she realized that not all thoughts are gonna turn out romantic, she sighed and went straight for his cabin. Siddhant was reading the file Shashank sent him about the children state there. As he stood near the window, he started concocting all ideas to make them all fit and fine. What fueled his determination was the fact that he loved the children there, and one in particular. His mind diverted to the door when he heard someone knock.

Radhika: May I come in?

Siddhant: Come in.

She entered the room slowly, feeling a bit shy. The cool breeze brushed against her thick wavy locks, she looked beautiful. Siddhant turned towards her closing the file and stood there. He was wearing a white shirt that just embraced his masculine figure, an ash colored tie, and a matte black pant. He looked so handsome. Radhika felt her heart flutter until she saw his right hand, bandaged and still bleeding slightly.

Radhika: What happened to yo-

Siddhant: Dr.Shashank gave us a job to do.

Radhika: ah...

Siddhant: He wants us to go to the Lonavla Sanjeevani Orphanage. The kids have gotten really sick and they need us. Since he needed a trained pediatrician to go there, he decided you were the best choice.

Radhika: I'm flattered.

Siddhant: He needs us to go over there by tonight. Here are the case files, study them and share any ideas that comes into your mind.

Radhika: Yes sir.

Siddhant: Good.

Radhika: Since we got that out of the way, may I now ask what happened to your hand?

Siddhant: No you may not doctor.

Radhika: Doctor please, it's still bleeding. Let me at least see it.

Siddhant: Dr.Radhika you may leave.

Radhika was not used to being shoved off by her best friend like that. But she realized that it's not the same person anymore. Whether it was love or not, she couldn't bear to see someone whom she cares about...being hurt.

Radhika(getting angry): Okay, last night you gave me lift home right? Well consider this as me returning the favor.

Siddhant looked at Radhika.

Radhika: I'm a doctor and I treat patients...and you're injured. That injury won't help you tonight. I'm not leaving this room until I attend to that injury.

Siddhant kept on gazing at this woman who was just brimming with determination. She reminded him about one person, she reminded him about Riddhima. Riddhima was just as stubborn and determined as he is, and right now...Radhika proved the same. The resemblance made him tremble to his knees and he looked away from her and gulped slowly.

Siddhant: The first aid box is at the bottom right hand side of the book shelf.

Radhika smiled and walked towards the first aid box, grabbed it and went up to him.

Radhika: Please sit down.

Siddhant sat on the couch and Radhika sat beside him, she opened the first aid box and picked out everything she needed. She then looked at Siddhant and then looked at his bandaged hand, she could feel her heart beating strong against her chest as she reached out to hold his hand...that too after such a long time. As she placed her hand underneath his, she could feel how cold his hand was, as if no blood flowed through it. It was a picture perfect moment for her, her hand in his; a small melancholic smile appeared on her lips as she drifted back to her past.

Siddhant and Radhika were playing tag on the garden, they were about to reach teenage life and they still were the best of friends. Siddhant tried to catch her but he tripped off a rock and fell on top of her and in the process, Radhika's skin peeled off a great amount from her side-arm as she fell hard on the ground. Siddhant immediately got up and sat beside her, feeling guilty as hell for hurting her, not a single noise came out of her mouth, nothing but streams of tears. Siddhant felt so bad, poor girl couldn't even cry loudly to give her some ease.

Siddhant: I'm so sorry! Ah! Here...

Siddhant took out a handkerchief out from his pocket and slowly wiped off the dirt from her bloodied arm but it hurt her even more.

Siddhant: okay okay okay!! I'm sorry! Please don't cry.

Siddhant cupped her face in his hand, and held it delicately.

Siddhant: Don't cry. (wipes off the tears) Look at me.

Radhika slowly looked into his eyes while tears streamed down her face.

Siddhant: I have an idea. Mom said, love always triumphs pain.

Siddhant lowered her head kissed her boo boo, and that brought her a small sense of ease.

Siddhant: There...now you'll feel better.

Radhika smiled with teary eyes.

Radhika gazed at his hand, back during her childhood days, they would always comfort each other when they were hurt. Right now, she didn't have the right to kiss his wound to make his pain go away...but soon she will. A small smile appeared on her lips.

Siddhant: (ahem)

Radhika was rudely brought back to the present hearing Siddhant clearing his voice. Siddhant felt quite uncomfortable the way Radhika just stared at his hand all this time; he needed her to finish what she started. Radhika focused on his hand and slowly opened the bandage, and then what she saw made her heart stop for a second. His knuckles had gone purple, skin split slightly apart almost revealing his muscles, and small shards of glass still stuck deep within his skin. Radhika wondered what might have happened to him, why Kaka didn't inform her about this, and how reckless and careless this man really is.

Radhika: Are you kidding me?! My God.

Radhika quickly took a small bottle of Xylocaine and a syringe and filled about 5 mg of it. She then wore plastic gloves and pushed the needle at the effected area. Radhika looked up at Siddhant to see if he flinched but, he looked like nothing's happened. He kept on looking ahead while Radhika did her job. She then sat there for a minute to let the anaesthesia kick in. For a whole minute, there was nothing but silence. Siddhant kept on looking ahead and Radhika sat back on the couch, looking here and there. Radhika gazed at Siddhant, he's changed so much and she doesn't even know why and how. The fact that he doesn't feel any pain proves just how emotionally numb he is.

I'm here now Siddhant. You don't have to worry anymore.

She thought to herself, and a small smile appeared on her lips. No matter what he went through, she wouldn't let him suffer anymore. His Mishti was here for him. Siddhant felt a pair of eyes gazing at him, but he didn't look at her. He still wondered why God kept on setting these meetings with Radhika. First the rickshaw, then at the reception, then at the Children's Ward, the rainy night, the balcony, and now here she is...tending his wounds. He didn't know why, but he felt that this wasn't a coincidence; from the very beginning this woman stole away his calm and his thoughts. There was something more about her, he just didn't know what.

Siddhant: It's numb.

Radhika broke off from her trance and realized that well over three minutes has passed. She took a twizzer, and slowly started to pluck away the small shards of glass. After she's done that, she took a bottle of Betadine, drenched a wad of cotton in it and started cleansing the wound. Siddhant slowly turned his head towards her and attentively gazed at her as she held the needle on her hand. Her hand started to shake slightly and she didn't know why. The wound on her beloved's hand was so deep, it really affected her, she then calmed herself down otherwise she knew Siddhant would make embarrass her. As she started to stitch, she could feel Siddhant's penetrating gaze at her. Siddhant analyzed her work. A woman, whom he barely knows, cares more about him then he does. He didn't want Radhika to do it, but in a corner of his heart, he thanked her for this. His ice cold eyes, slightly turned warm as he saw how attentively Radhika sewed his wound. Radhika could feel a tingle on her back, his gaze made her blood rush to her cheeks. Never in her entire life did she ever find a simple task like stitching to prove so difficult in this case. She couldn't help it, she locked her eyes with his.

Will you still love me when I'm no longer young and beautiful

Will you still love me when I've got nothing but my aching soul

I know you will

I know you will

I know that you will

The last time she locked eyes with his in this way, it was a long time back. That was the day she realized she loved him. Today was no different. His dark brown eyes locked with her blue eyes, she felt as if time stood still. She fell in love with those eyes, and it's making her fall for them again.

Siddhant(in a husky voice): Why'd you stop?

Radhika realized what she was doing...but she didn't break the eyelock. She counter-argued, it felt like the intelligent thing to do.

Radhika(in a husky voice): Why were you staring at me?

Siddhant immediately realized what he was doing and quickly looked away. She was right, why was he staring at her? No wonder, she might've felt uncomfortable. Siddhant mentally slapped himself, it was not in his nature to gaze at women, a sudden sense of guilt washed over him, and he thought Radhika was probably swearing at him, whereas it was the highlight of her day.

Siddhant: I...I'm sorry.

Radhika: It's okay.

Radhika almost finished stitching, and started bandaging his hand.

Radhika: You need to take care of yourself, this could've spread into an infection, and you might've lost your hand.

Seriousness started spreading across his face again.

Siddhant: I've lost a lot of things Dr.Radhika. I've got nothing left to lose now.

Radhika was about to clip the bandage when she stopped hearing him say that. That blankness returned in his face, and all she could see was emptiness in his eyes now.

Siddhant: That'll be all for now. You may leave.

The bluntness in his voice made Radhika's blood boil a bit. She needed to get used to this Hitler.

Radhika: We're even now.

Before Radhika reached the door, her feet stopped and her anger started to calm down.

Siddhant: Thank you.

Radhika turned back and smiled at him.

Radhika: You're most welcome doctor.

Siddhant nodded in approval and watched her leave his room. Radhika started walking towards the OPD smiling, and she couldn't wait for the trip to Lonavla.

Part 9 (1):

Siddhant's eyes followed Radhika, her graceful walk, with her head bowed a little, and the locks of hair covering her expressive eyes, all he could make out was her small peaceful smile that she had, he had his eyes on her until he couldn't see her anymore. He then slowly looked to bandaged hand and reminisced the moment where she tenderly took care of his wound. Her focused eyes when she stitched his hand, and how she beautifully executed the bandage, not too tight and not too lose.

"Why were you staring at me"?

He came back to his senses and shook his head vigorously.

My God...what was I doing???

Riddhima: Yes what were you doing?

He looked to his right and saw Riddhima, with her arms crossed across her chest, with a scrutinizing look. But she was nothing more than a shadow that has been haunting him for the past 5 years.

Riddhima(in a dark tone): How can this be? My Sid...thinking about someone else rather than me? Unforgivable.

The shadow hit him were it hurt him the most, and asked such a question that Siddhant himself didn't have the answer. Guilt washed all over him as he thought about Riddhima's words. Riddhima was the only one whom he had truly loved; to think about someone else...he truly felt that he was betraying his own heart. He gazed at the floor, couldn't put a finger on how he was feeling, but he was definitely not feeling good. Riddhima smiled heartily seeing him in his sorry state and slowly tip toed her way and brought her lips close to his ear.

Riddhima: You love me...don't you? Stay away from her...she's dangerous...

Siddhant felt so intimidated by this shadow, he searched for a glass of water on his desk, as soon as he gulped the last drop of water, he instantly turned to face Riddhima...but she was no longer there. Siddhant tried to calm himself down, the last thing he ever wanted was his past haunting him while his working. Radhika did turn out to be quite dangerous for him. He heaved a huge sigh of relief as he felt his nerves calming down, he turned towards his table and slowly kept his glass. A sense of determination spread through his veins. When he left Riddhima, he promised to himself that he would never let anyone near him again. The love he had for Riddhima was pure and loyal, even if she didn't care about it, he gave a lot of importance to the littlest promises he made to himself, and he intends to keep them. Although, he couldn't put a finger as to how this stranger had the power to conquer his thoughts. But not anymore, and as much as he hated to admit it, the shadow was right, for some reason, Radhika has the power to affect him. He took a deep breath, stood up straight and fixed his tie and focused on his work. He looked over his desk and kept searching for a file regarding on a case that he was working on.

Siddhant: Where did I keep that file? Ah! It's in my car.

Siddhant marched out of the room and heads towards his car.

On the other hand, Radhika walked through the corridors slowly as she kept thinking about Siddhant. A surge of love and every other emotion ran through her veins and gave her goosebumps as she thought about the way he gazed at her. The way his hand was almost clasping her own, all these feelings, these proximity, it was all new to her. A simple touch from him drove her crazy, and why wouldn't it? She concealed her feelings for him for 15 years, and it seemed that God was saving him only for her. As she thought about it, she couldn't help but skip a little, feeling this wonder surrounding her. Riddhima walked on the opposite direction and saw Radhika skipping, twirling, immensely happy about something. Riddhima smiled looking at her and wondered what could possibly make her behave like this, but in the back of her mind, she started drawing the conclusion already. She walked towards Radhika who hugged her case file as if it was dearest thing to her.

Riddhima: What's up bubblehead?

Radhika was instantly brought back to reality when she heard a familiar voice, she turned around and saw Riddhima smiling a I know what's going on' smile.

Radhika: Bubblehead?

Riddhima: yeah! You always look happy, as if you're in love, like you live in a bubble.

Radhika: yeah yeah yeah...

After that comment, Radhika and Riddhima both started walking together slowly, but Riddhima didn't draw her eyes away from Radhika. To her, it was quite amusing; it reminded her the first time when she started feeling something. Radhika could sense her gaze and looked at her, all blushing miserably and Riddhima couldn't help but smile widely.

Riddhima: So?

Radhika: What?

Riddhima: What's the matter?

Radhika: Nothing.

Riddhima: Right.

They started walking quietly again...

Riddhima: You have the hots for Dr.Siddhant right?

Radhika: WHAT THE...how'd you know?

Riddhima couldn't help but laugh seeing her reaction.

Riddhima: I see the way you look at him, actually you and a whole lot of girls in this hospital.

Radhika couldn't help but feel a slight tingle down her spine when Riddhima mentioned that.

Radhika: Really?

Riddhima: Yeah. He's good looking, killer attitude, has a good position. He's basically any girl's dream guy.

Radhika: The way he scrutinizes every doctor in this hospital, you'd think they won't have the guts to be this bold.

Riddhima: Well...you do. Hehehehe!!!!

Radhika: That's coz I have the right to.

Radhika couldn't help but feel a little intimidated. She already started having some competition.

Riddhima: You're cute, but be careful, Siddhant isn't an easy going man.

Radhika: hehe...heh.

Riddhima: Well I gotta scoot. Your admirer gave me tones of work that I need to finish.

Radhika smiled listening to her cheeky remark. Riddhima patted on her shoulder and smiled.

Riddhima: I'll see you later, always a pleasure to talk to you.

Radhika: You too.

After exchanging their goodbye's they both took different paths and went towards their duties. As Radhika kept on walking with her case file still close to her heart, her mind started to cloud with a barrage of questions.

Radhika: I wonder... why Riddhima is being so nice to me? His ex-wife admiring his new found admirer? What's the catch?

Riddhima: All I ever wanted is to see Siddhant happy, to see that he's moving on in his life, and I believe Radhika is the only person who can bring back the Sid I once knew...there's something about her...

They both marched to their respective duties.

On the other hand, Siddhant headed towards his car through the underground garage when he saw some guys teasing a woman. He stopped on his tracks and analysed the situation, he couldn't see the woman.

Man 1: Come on, I'll treat you good. With a body like that, men must've clawed each others eyes out to be with you.

Woman(feeling scared): Please leave me alone!! If you touch me then it won't be good for ya!

Man 2: You hear that? Hahahaha!!!!! As if you can do anything!

Woman: Please...

Siddhant felt obligated to help that woman out. He marched towards the gang of men, and silently stood behind the man who was obscuring the woman's face.

Siddhant: Leave her alone.

The man who was standing in front of the woman, turned slowly towards Siddhant with his eyes narrowed and giving him a who the hell are you' look. Siddhant was not afraid of these wanna be gangsters. He was taller and buffer than them, not to mention those five years really gave him an edge on situations like this. Siddhant's eyes fell on the woman's face. It was Avantika. Siddhant's temper instantly relaxed a bit when he saw who the woman was. She was trembling in fear and sweating like anything. As soon as Avantika saw Siddhant, a sense of peace instantly rushed through her veins. His concerned look gave her the feeling of being safe, but her peace was only temporary, when she saw the man slowly revealing a knife out of his pocket.

Man 1: What did you just say?

Siddhant's concerned eyes got exchanged with pure rage by looking at the audacity of the man. He started shooting intense looks towards the man.

Siddhant: I said...leave her alone.

The man took a step forward and brought his face close to Siddhant's.

Man 1: Or yeah? And what are you gonna do?

Siddhant: You're about to find out.

The man tried to drive the knife through his belly but Siddhant professionally jumped back and dodged it.

Avanika: SIR!!!!

Siddhant: Avantika! Stand on the side and don't move a muscle!

Siddhant then unbuttoned his suit so that he can move freely. The gang started feeling intimidated as Siddhant was not tensed at all; they all rushed forward to finish Siddhant. The man, who teased her, ran to him to stab him but instantly got punched in the face before he could make a scratch on Siddhant. Another man came from the side but Siddhant deflected his attacks and punched him hard on his stomach almost digging his fist through it. Two more men came from his back, and Siddhant laid a 540 kick on them, dropping them on the ground. If he's learned anything from his days living at Shimla, it is that the world ain't a nice place; you need to live like a warrior if you have to survive. Avantika, like any other girl, was feeling horrified and impressed by the way Siddhant tried to protect her. All of a sudden, her focus was only on Siddhant, everything else seemed to blur out for her. All her life, she's been treated as an item girl, an object, not a single guy she's dated ever really cared about her other than her looks, but this was the first time when someone really stood up for her, and he doesn't even know her that well. The moment he first introduced himself as the DO of the hospital, and seeing this dark nature of his, it made her scared and at the same time attracted. She always liked a man with an attitude, and now, unintentionally, he was winning her heart. Siddhant dodged another man, held him by his throat and choke slammed him on the ground. The attacked was instantly knocked out cold. Siddhant slowly stood up, breathing heavily, his hair almost messed up; sweat dripping down his face and still his eyes were glowing with rage. All the attackers were on the ground, trying hard to get up on their feet but couldn't, Siddhant's stitched hand was bleeding again with all that punching but he didn't feel a single pain. Avantika's admiration quickly turned into fear as she saw how the gang tried to recover, and quickly realized what Siddhant was capable of. Siddhant's blood kept on boiling, and wanted beat the crap out of them even more, but tried to restrain himself since a collegue was watching him. Siddhant picked the almost knocked out gang' one by one. Siddhant then grabbed the man who teased Avantika by his collar, dragged all the way to Avantika and threw him in front of her.

Siddhant: APOLOGIZE!

The man grabbed her feet in fear and asked for forgiveness.

Man 1: Please please! Please forgive me! I'll never tease another girl in my life.

Avantika felt embarrassed as heck and didn't know what to do.

Avantika: okay okay!

Siddhant then grabbed him by the collar and brought his face close to his. That man almost peed his pants as he looked deep into Siddhant's eyes.

Siddhant: If I ever see you low lives around my hospital again...

The man managed to free himself from Siddhant's threatening grasp and ran for his life, and the gang followed him too. Siddhant's eyes followed the running men until he could see them no more. He exhaled loudly, trying to calm his nerves and slowly buttoned up his suit. He then turned towards Avantika who was shootin dangerous and bold looks towards her savior. She couldn't help but notice that he looked even more handsome with his messy hair. Siddhant kept on looking at her and Avantika lowered her gaze, trying to avoid his eyes as she felt blood rush to her cheeks. Siddhant slowly walked towards her and stood right in front of her.

Siddhant: Are you okay?

All Avantika did was nod.

Siddhant: What were you doing here?

Avantika looked up and met his dark intense eyes. He was standing right where the sunlight spotted him, the beads of sweat literally sparkled.

Avantika: Holy crap! He's like a real Edward Cullen!

Siddhant: Well?

Avantika was rudely brought back to reality and realized what Siddhant was asking. She started mumbling out words, and she didn't even know why she was tensed.

Avantika: a.a.aactually! I uh...left something in my car...came to pick it up.

All Siddhant did was nod suspiciously.

Siddhant: Well then get on with it.

Avantika: I uh-yes sir.

Siddhant then started walking towards his car, but then stopped and turned around to say something to her.

Siddhant: You know...

Avantika: Yes?

Siddhant was about to comment on her way of dressing but then realized it was rude to make a remark on that. So he dismissed that idea.

Siddhant: Nothing. Go back to work.

Avantika(dreamily): oookay...

Siddhant then opened up the front seat door, and took the file, locked the door and marched to the hospital again.

After 10 minutes later

Avantika came to the locker room, with that one vision in her eyes, Siddhant. The gang was in the room and heard about the news that Avantika was molested. As soon as they saw Avantika walking through the door, Kirti instantly rushed towards her and showed her concern.

Kirti: My God, are you alright? Heard what happened.

Priya: Yeah! I mean the security here has degraded if a bunch of men managed to get into the hospital grounds to tease girls.

Kirti: Yes...i need to have a talk with the security team.

Seeing Avantika smiling like a fool, Kirti and the others couldn't understand what was happening.

Armaan: What's up with her?

Radhika: She doesn't look that disturbed.

Riddhima: Wait wait...

Riddhima went up to her and clicked her fingers, it instantly snapped Avantika back.

Anjali: What is wrong with you? You went through such a thing and you're smiling?

Avantika: oh yeah...it was scary...but what Dr.Siddhant did...hee...

She caught Radhika's attention, Riddhima slowly looked over to her and saw her confused.

Radhika: What did he do?

Avantika: He kicked their ass, that's what he did!

Riddhima couldn't help but smile a bit when she saw the way Radhika was fuming.

Avantika: He saw the men teasing me so he stood up for me, and man he knows how to kick butts.

Vishal for no reason, started feeling nervous. He started fearing Siddhant ever since he knew about his position, if he knows how to fight then that's bad for him.

Avantika: You should've seen him! Man! He knows martial arts!

Priya: wow...

Riddhima(smiling): Typical Mean Modi.

Avantika: I mean, the guys were no match for him, they were literally flying all over the place, couldn't put a single scratch on him.

Radhika didn't know what she felt, the way Avantika was showing her admiration was settling her back a bit. Riddhima was right, she was facing competition. The other men felt intimidated for no reason.

Rahul: Heh! I'm pretty sure they were amateurs.

Avantika: No! they had knives and tried to stab him.

Radhika's heart stopped as soon as she heard that.

Radhika: My God is he alright?!?!?!

Avantika: Yeah he's fine, like I said, not a single scratch.

Abhimanyu smiled looking at this smitten girl, he was proud of his cousin. Nikki leaned close to Abhi.

Nikki: That's our Sid. Heheheh! Look at Radhika.

Abhi's eyes shifted to Radhika and saw how irritated she looked as Avantika kept on blabbing about her savior.

Abhi: Heh!

JP just stood at a corner, isolated from everyone. He kept on listening Avantika's babbling. He still couldn't get over the fact at how much Siddhant has changed. His mean eyes kept flashing in his mind. He wondered why Siddhant was so angry at him. Atul noticed him being distracted. Concerned, he went towards JP.

Atul: What's up?

JP immediately flinched in a trance. He looked at Atul and just smiled.

JP: Nothing, was just wondering something.

Shekhar: I would love to see him in action.

JP and Atul both looked at him.

Shekhar: I love martial arts, if would've been awesome if I were there to see it.

Avantika's smile turned into irritation.

Avantika: It wasn't entertaining dumbo, but it sure was amusing! Ehee!

Shekhar: ...I meant that.

Radhika: Oh God...

Just then Riddhima's eyes fell on someone. Siddhant was approaching the LP and Avantika still kept on blabbing about the incident, standing on the bench.

Avanitka: I mean it was so awesome; he executed moves that I didn't know it existed.

Siddhant heard that and slowly walked in and stood behind her, watching her babble. All the doctors were in guard, and stood still as if they were held captive, and Avantika didn't notice a thing. She kept on talking and every word she said irritated Siddhant, the last thing he wanted was a fan girl.

Avantika: He looked so dreamy when he was fighting...

Siddhant immediately felt a little shy. He looked here and there and then fixed his gaze on her again. The doctors started stepping back from Avantika as if a monster was standing behind her, and Avantika noticed this.

Avantika: Hey...what's wrong?

Kirti tried to signal her with her eyes.

Avantika: huh?

Radhika then pointed at someone, and since it wasn't her, Avantika had that tingling sense of trepidation. She started to feel a presence behind her, she slowly turned around and saw the pair of intense brown eyes, staring back at her. As soon as she saw him, she freaked out and her shoe tripped on the edge of the bench and she was about to fall, but Siddhant caught her in time. Avantika fell on his arms with a jolt and her eyes immediately got locked with his. Radhika couldn't help but feel jealous. Just when she was about to enter his life, every girl in the whole world needed to butt in. Riddhima had her eyes on Radhika, and to her, it was all amusing. Siddhant's arms were gripping her while she got lost in those eyes. Siddhant realized that people were watching and gently placed her on the ground.

Siddhant: Dr.Avantika, I'd remind you to be serious in this hospital. What were you thinking stading on the bench like that?

Avantika realized what she was doing. But she was not sorry at all.

Avantika: Sorry sir.

Siddhant sighed shaking his head slightly.

Siddhant: Anyway, Dr. Kirti, may I have a word?

Kirti: Of course.

Siddhant and Kirti stood on a side while everyone had their eyes on them.

Siddhant: I trust, the hospital will be well maintained by the time I'm coming back?

Kirti: Oh yes doctor. You can count on me.

Siddhant: Never doubted on it...alright then.

Siddhant and Kirti then went back to the LP.

Siddhant: Doctors, this week Dr.Kirti will act as the DO on my absence. I'm sure you will treat her respectfully and will abide by her orders. If I get any sort of information that even ONE of you...did not abide by her rules, then there will be severe consequences. Since I'm getting ready for Lonavla, Dr. Kirti, you're in charge.

Kirti: Yes doctor.

Siddhant then looked at each doctor carefully and his eyes got locked with Vishal, who tentatively hid his face behind Shekhar. He then looked for Radhika whose eyes were always locked on Siddhant.

Siddhant: Dr.Radhika, these are the paperworks for Lonavla, I want you to take a look at them. We have to reach Lonavla by tonight.

Everybody was surprised about this news, Radhika and Siddhant on a journey to Lonavla. Riddhima couldn't help but remember all the bad times she had with Siddhant there. She secretly hoped Radhika would change his experience there. Radhika nodded her head smiling with hope in her eyes that this trip would work to her advantage, while Avantika's joy came into a halt when she heard the news.

Avantika knew Radhika had the hots for Siddhant. It seems whenever Siddhant used to be within range of her radar, her face would bloom and she would always smile like an idiot, even a blind man would notice how Radhika behave. Radhika, no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't stop her emotions take control of her, and now, Radhika has the chance to spend an entire week with the guy she's started to feel something for. She looked at Radhika, who still kept gazing at her love, with her arms crossed across her chest, shooting daggers with her eyes. Siddhant reached out the paper with his injured hand and Radhika came forward and before she grabbed the paper, her eyes got fixed at his bloodied bandages again. Radhika's eyebrows twitched and she looked at Siddhant with utter shock in her eyes. The moment Siddhant saw that look; he immediately regretted reaching out that hand in the first place. Now he has to hear all the blabbering from her yet again. Everyone else looked at them wondering what was going on.

Radhika: What the...Sir?! How did this happen again?

Siddhant: In case Dr. Avantika hadn't told you, I tried to fend of the guys, so I had to play dirty.

Radhika: Great...all my effort just went down the drain. Seriously you are the most careless man I've ever seen.

Everyone gasped when they heard that remark. Riddhima gasped lightly. She knows Radhika has feelings but it's even stupid for her to make such a remark as if she's already a part of his life. Siddhant looked at the woman in front of him while she gazed deeply at his hand. He couldn't put a finger on it, but there was something about her that immediately makes him absorb her remarks. Kirti's eyes were widened with shock, and she immediately felt the need to defend Siddhant.

Kirti: Dr. Radhika, you have no right to-

Siddhant: It's okay...Dr. Kirti...no offence given...none taken.

Siddhant stared at Radhika who kept on gazing at his hand.

Siddhant: It's rude...to keep a person waiting.

Radhika snapped back to reality and realized what she was doing. She almost let her guard down, and talked to him like his Mishti rather than Radhika. She immediately grabbed the papers and avoided looking at his eyes.

Siddhant: And for the sake of your profession...never talk to me like that again.

Radhika looked deep into his eyes and then bowed her head.

Radhika: Yes sir.

Siddhant: Study them...i'll pick you up at 8 in the evening.

Radhika: (nodding)

Siddhant then swiftly turned around and started walking away. Radhika then slowly entered the LR with irritation washed over her face.

Radhika: Jeez what a hardass!

Vishal just found his hero. The woman he has a crush on has the courage to talk back at his nemesis. He couldn't help but look dreamily at Radhika.

Armaan: Man! For a girl, you got guts!

Rahul: Yeah!

Radhika: Sometimes he can really get into your skin.

Vishal: Tell me about it.

Nikki: Siddhant...has changed a lot.

Abhi: For the right reasons of course.

Armaan: What do you mean for the right reasons'?

Abhi: I was like him when I was DO, only he's much more strict, and pissed off for some reason.

Armaan: Heh...yeah.

Anjali: I can see that he's trying to do his job as a DO, but he could go just a bit easy on us right?

Muskaan: Yeah. I mean, he talks to us as if we're not worth his time.

Kirti: We aren't. The only reason he's like this, is because the last time he was elected to be the DO, you people didn't give him a damn. You guys took him for granted...like you did with me. The only way for people to take someone seriously is to be serious and a hardass. He's doing his job, even if we don't like it, we have to accept it, because I can probably tell he didn't want to step foot in this hospital in the first place if it weren't for us, and because I failed to do my job, he's forced to work here.

A few of the people in the room understood what she meant by that, especially Armaan, Riddhima and JP. Riddhima knew from the get go that it was her fault for turning Siddhant into this. No matter how hard she tries to conceal it, everytime Siddhant spoke with those numb, expressionless eyes, she would feel raw guilt surging through her veins.

It's Siddhant Modi...from now on.

That was the time when it hit Riddhima hard on her heart. He's changed, and it was all because of her. JP couldn't help but stare blankly at the floor as he was hearing Kirti. She rudely reminded him of his internship days, the way he and his pal Armaan mocked Siddhant in front of the hospital, in front of his wife, and all Siddhant did was bow out feeling disheartened. He shut his eyes tightly, not bein able to bear the guilt. He was never a true friend of Siddhant's, but always a handiman of Armaan's. Radhika secretly looked around the room, feeling intrigued by Kirti's words. True, she knows Siddhant was divorced, and that's why he left Sanjeevani, but she never got to know why he got married with the same girl twice and got divorced. She really wanted to know, but she'll have to wait for that.

Shekhar: I still go awestruck when I think about his carreer. Five years ago, he was a mere intern, and now, he has an M.B.B.S, is a heart specialist and has a high rank in the medical co-operation. He was actually sent here as a recommendation from the agency. How'd he achieve so much in a matter of 5 years?

Kirti: Beats me, I guess, he really did start working hard after he left.

Shekhar: I dunno about you lot, but he's my role model.

Vishal(sarcastically): wow...

Shekhar: What? He's successful, he always gets high praises when he meets with our superiors, and women love him, because he's young and beautiful.

Vishal: Yeah right.

Shekhar: Were you not here like 10 minutes ago? Avantika was talking as if she just fell in love.

Avantika: WHAT THE??!?! I...i.i.i. I'm not at all...

Shekhar: Please.

Priya: He's right you know.

Avantika: I'M SO NOT...

Vishal: alright alright we get it.

Kirti(smiling): Shekhar is right...ever since Siddhant came back, women in the hospital kinda go all gaga over him. I guess I have to work extra hard from now on.

Shubhankar kinda got irritated by hearing his wife's constant praise for someone who's considerably younger than him.

Shubhankar: I'm sure.

Kirti: I heard that during the last year's medical conference in Australia, a woman actually proposed to him.

Everyone in the room got shocked, especially Radhika. Vishal scoffed in ignorance.

Vishal(thinking): Seriously...the old man has a charm?

Abhi smiled thinking about it.

Nikki: Oh how I would've loved to see his face at that time.

Abhi: Hehehehe!! Yeah!

Kirti: And why wouldn't women want him? He's got a great profession, a stable carreer, earns more money than us, and is extremely good looking. He's grown as a person the last time I saw him, both is spirit and in mind.

Kirti had a small smile on her face as she uttered those words with a faraway look. Everyone in the room stared at Kirti. The Hitler was smitten, and her husband didn't like it one bit. Riddhima looked at Kirti and then shifted her gaze towards Radhika who looked away so that Riddhima wouldn't notice her eyes, her eyes were blazing. Sure, Siddhant was worthy of compliments, but women are getting attracted towards his just when she was about to make her stand. She couldn't believe her luck. Kirti came back to reality and realized what she was doing.

Kirti: Anyway, here I am blabbering whereas I should be working and making you work. DISMISSED!

All: Yes ma'am.

Everyone started moving towards their respective duties, while Radhika started strolling aimlessly and confused.

Siddhant headed towards his cabin, he couldn't understand why Radhika had such an effect on him. He really doesn't know her that well...still...he feels like she has a history which could interest him. The way she talks to him, it's as if she knows him like how a friend would know. Is is just that? Or is it simply because she's earnest and simple and is very caring? Either way, he had to stay away from her, but he knows it's going to be hard now since they're getting ready for Lonavla. Just when he was about to open the door, a familiar voice caught his attention.

Woman: Superbro!!?!?!?!?!?

Siddhant froze on the spot. Superbro...only one person calls him that. He turned around and saw a woman, wearing a light blue suit with high heels, bangles up to her wrists, attractive feminine figure, wavy black locks of hair, a mangalsutra adorning her neck, a pair of glasses and that beautiful but cute face with vermillion coloring her forehead. Siddhant couldn't believe it, after more than five years, he finally got to meet his sister Suvarna. She couldn't believe her eyes, she came to Sanjeevani just to meet up with her old colleagues but she never thought she would see her long lost brother. Tears started forming in her eyes, she ran towards him crying, unable to hold her emotions anymore and crashed onto his chest, burying her little head in his broad chest. Siddhant instantaneously engulfed her in his arms, he couldn't express how much he missed her, but he did. Every single day, he remembered his family, and how much they would miss him. But the only reason he didn't go back, was because he couldn't face all those questions which was sure going to be tossed at him, he didn't have the courage to meet eye to eye with his parents knowing he fumbled with the family reputation. But seeing Suvarna, a sense of peace embraced his heart as his sister sobbed digging her face in his chest, nearly drenching his shirt with her tears.

Suvarna: Sid...

Siddhant: I'm here. I'm here...don't cry.

Siddhant slowly took her into his cabin and closed the door while still hugging her. Suvarna's face was drenched with her tears, she felt as if her whole body was getting numb. Ever since she got to know about the divorce, she searched for Siddhant like crazy, the fact that her brother was in pain and was alone completely shattered her, she kept on searching but was unsuccessful in finding him. He was completely out of radar, and now when she's finally in the arms of her brother, she couldn't help but completely numb, or more like relaxed. Siddhant made her sit on the couch, took off her spectacles and handed her a tissue box. She wiped away her tears and blew her nose, making Siddhant smile a bit. She then put her spectacles back on and gazed at him in wonder.

Sue: Where the hell have you been?

Siddhant knew this was coming.

Siddhant: Away from people, far away from my past but...(looks around his room) seems as though...i couldn't stay far enough.

Sue: Five years...five years and you didn't even find it necessary to contact us...not even me!

Siddhant: I didn't even know where you went, and I knew that mom and dad would eventually find me if I ever contacted you.

Sue: Why bro? What's wrong with a mother and a father trying to find their child?

Siddhant: There's nothing wrong with it Sue...it's just...I couldn't bear to see the disappointment on Dad's eyes, when he'll look at me.

Sue: Sid...

Siddhant: I've done nothing but embarrass them. I'm sure they got the news. I just can't face them Sue.

Sue: But you couldn've put me out of my misery! You have no idea how much I missed you bro...

Siddhant: I missed you too Sue. Every single day for the past five years, I've missed you...whenever I was sad, you'd come to me, trying to cheer me up. I wanted that...but you were so far away.

Sue couldn't help but start crying again. Siddhant instantly engulfed her in his arms again, trying to stop her from sobbing.

Sue: I feel so guilty bro...

Siddhant: No Sue. It's not your fault. I'm sorry for making you feel like this.

Sue: No bro...

Siddhant gently pushed her away, and kissed her on her forehead with a smile. He quickly noticed the vermillion on her forehead, and then his eyes shifted on her mangalsutra.

Siddhant: Sue? Are you...

Sue: Married? Yup...

Siddhant: ...wh...who's the guy?

Suddenly a loud irritated voice came from outside the cabin.

Man: Jeez! Where did the woman go??!

Sue: I'm in here!

Siddhant could see his shadow from the glass pane. The door slowly started to open, and surprised Siddhant to the core.

Siddhant: What the...

Yuvi: SIDDHANT!?!?!?!?

Siddhant stood up with his eyes widened while Yuvi smiled widely and moved forward to hug him. He embraced Siddhant like a usual brotherly way and Siddhant slightly reciprocated.

Yuvi: Godddamn it's good to see you again!!

Siddhant stared at Sue blankly.

Siddhant: You married him?

Sue: Yeah!

Siddhant then shifted his gaze at Yuvi and the shifted his gaze back at Sue.

Siddhant: There are like 60 million people in this country...you couldn't find any other bloke to marry?

Yuvi: HUH?!?!?!?

Sue: Okay okay calm down! The reason I married him because...(hugs Yuvi)...i love him.

Siddhant: ...how did this happen?

Sue: Well it's a long story...some other time maybe.

Siddhant: Welp...I guess it's okay, this way, I can keep tabs on ya. You do know that you gotta call me bhaiyya from now on right?

Yuvi: In your dreams you jackass!

Siddhant couldn't help but smile heartily. He missed his best friend, the only friend who stood by him. Yuvi smiled back at him and laughed loudly. Siddhant moved forward for a handshake and Yuvi reciprocated warmly.

Siddhant: It's nice to have you back.

Yuvi: Oh no Sid. It's nice to have YOU back. We really missed you man.

Siddhant: yeah...by the way, where were you two all these years?

Sue: We were in USA, finishing our internship, mom and dad liked him very much so they agreed for marriage, although now, we're thinking of moving back to India, and start a new life.

Siddhant: That's good. When did you come to India?

Yuvi: Last night. We thought of meeting up with some friends.

Siddhant: Where are you guys staying?

Yuvi: We checked in a hotel.

Siddhant: Pack your bags, you're staying at the Modi penthouse.

Yuvi: Dude, we don't wanna impose...

Siddhant: Nonsense! You're coming.

Yuvi: Okay.

Sue: Alright you work, we're gonna go and see the rest of Sanjeevani.

Siddhant: Alright.

Sue: It's good to see you again bro.

Siddhant: You too.

Yuvi: We'll see you tonight then.

Siddhant: Right. Here's the address, just knock the door, a person will open it.

Yuvi: okay...

Siddhant: See ya.

Sue: See ya.

They both left the cabin waving goodbyes at him, while he lightly smiled holding a file in his hand. As soon as they closed the door, Siddhant immediately went back to work, he was running late. Sue couldn't help but feel light headed. She met up with her brother after such a long time, her joy knew no bounds. They made their way to the LR when Sue accidentally bumped into someone.

Sue: Excuse me ma'a...

It was Radhika. Sue's eyes widened and so did Radhika's. Yuvi looked at her with confusion in his eyes.

Sue: RADHIKA DID--?!?!?!?

Radhika: SSSHHH!!!! Keep it down, otherwise Kirti will come looking for you.

Sue: What are you doing here??!?!?

Radhika:...(gazing at her seriously)...I'll explain it to you later. If you really wanna know, meet me at the terrace in 15 minutes, right now I've got work to do. Act as if you don't know me, I'll explain everything.

Sue couldn't understand what was going on and neither did Yuvi. But they silently accepted her conditions and walked away feeling all confused, although Yuvi started drawing conclusions already. They started walking towards LR where they saw JP and Jiggy. Jiggy was being his usual self but JP looked distracted.

Yuvi: Hey guys!

Both of them looked up and saw their old friends after such a long time. JP quickly got up from the bench and hugged him tight.

JP: Yuvi bhaiyya!

Yuvi: How are you?

JP: I'm fine! How are you?

Yuvi: Pretty good.

JP: aur phlowerji?

Sue: You didn't change at all.

JP: sure I did. I lost a lot of weight and now I'm a senior.

Sue: Congrats!

JP: Thank you...(smile disappears)...although...it's not the same anymore.

Yuvi: What do you mean?

JP: Since Sid bhaiyya's return, I sensed that he's changed a lot. So much so that he doesn't even consider me as a friend.

Yuvi: What? Why?

JP: I dunno. But I plan to find out.

Sue: You two catch up, I'll be back.

She leaned towards Yuvi's right ear.

Sue(whispering): come by the terrace quick.

Yuvi: hmm.

Sue then quickly marched to the terrace.

A while later

Radhika stood there, staring blankly at the city while the cool breeze embraced her. Dark clouds were covering up the sun, it was about to rain. She loves rain, it reminded her so much about the time she spent with Siddhant. They both loved to jump on the puddles, ruining their clothes, but they were carefree and happy and that's all they needed to be. She smiled widely and shook her head wondering how the slightest things in life reminded her about Siddhant. She sighed, although the breeze was cool, she felt warm inside, a mere memory of Siddhant was enough for her. But now she has the chance to make new memories. She heard sound of high heeled footsteps and her smile grew wider, she turned around only to see Sue stand there with confusion in her eyes.

Radhika: Suvarna.

Sue: Radhika didi? What are you doing here? And why were you telling me to be discreet?

Radhika: Coz you were really loud.

Sue(feeling embarrassed): Dear God, it's really good to see you.

Radhika: You too darling.

Sue came forwards and they both exchanged hugs.

Sue: I've heard about you becoming a doctor, but I never knew you were working here.

Radhika: Yeah. Sanjeevani really is a good hospital, I've been transferred here.

Sue: At the same time Sid did?

Radhika: Yeah! Hehehehehe!!

Sue: What a coincidence.

Radhika: Yeah...

Radhika was getting the feeling that Sue was about to find out, but she was not going to stop her from deducing the situation, after all, she needs all the help she can get.

Sue: Did you ever meet up with mom and dad?

Radhika: A lot of times before I came to India. I really miss them and my parents.

Sue: Don't you skype?

Radhika: All the time, but it ain't the same you know.

Sue: So I see. By the way how long were you in India? Or did you just shift?

Radhika: Oh no, it's been 6 months.

Sue: So I see...so...(suddenly smiling)...mom dad sent you here didn't they?

Radhika: What?

Sue: Unable to find Sid themselves, they told you to find him...coz a close friend won't be able to hide from his other close friend.

Radhika, slightly shocked, slowly turned around and gazed at the city again.

Sue: I guess, even your parents wanted you to find him. Knowing how much you care about him, they knew you'd be successful. Holy God!! How could I have not known this before?!?!?! Uff!!!

Radhika kept on gazing at the city and all of a suddent silence covered the atmosphere. She didn't speak for quite some time, until...

Radhika: How did you know?

Sue: It kinda hit me the moment I met you and you told me to be quiet. You didn't want Siddhant or any of the doctors know who you truly are.

Radhika: ...

Sue: And why wouldn't I know? I know you care about him a lot, ever since you were kids...and you cared about him so much, that you eventually fell for him.

Radhika: (smiling)

Sue: I've seen you two together since I was a little girl, you were always there for me as a sister, how could I not know how you felt, seeing that everytime you looked at Sid, your eyes would twinkle and you'd smile like an idiot.

Radhika:...(in a slight dark tone)...clever girl.

Radhika slowly turned around and Sue saw a tiny drop of tear on her cheek while she still smiled.

Radhika: I'm Siddhant's lover...and I'm here to mend his broken heart.

She couldn't believe what she heard. After all these years, she's finally found a ray of hope, a hope to see Siddhant happy again, and for her to be in peace, she has found her savior, and she knew, that this woman is the only person who can bring Siddhant back again. Riddhima smiled widely...as she heard Radhika smiling at Sue, while she hid behind the entrance door.

Riddhima: Is this real? Do I have a chance to be at peace?

Riddhima gazed at Radhika, and her ray of hope started to enhance with the passing seconds. The determined look on Radhika's face gave Riddhima a sense of peace. As her mind stormed a thousand different questions she heard fast moving footsteps behind her, and she immediately hid behind the door. She heard the person passing by her and peeked a little to see Yuvi arriving. She heard enough and got all the information she needed, she ran away before someone noticed her. Yuvi stood beside Sue, breathing heavily climbing those flights of stairs, and suddenly saw both the women smiling and shedding tears. Yuvi couldn't understand what was happening.

Yuvi: What did I miss?

Sue: A lot. Hehehe.

Yuvi: Let me guess...you're here for Sid aren't you?

Radhika: How'd you know?

Yuvi: I saw some of your pictures in the Modi Mansion when we were in US. I guessed Maa and Baba both sent you here because they thought you could find him.

Radhika: (Smiling)

Yuvi: And even before I ever saw you, I think Siddhant mentioned about you before.

Radhika was stunned to hear this revelation. All these days she thought Siddhant might've forgotten about her, but the fact that he remembers that friend' made her truly happy.

Radhika: Really???!?! When?!?!?!

Yuvi: Hehehe! The day Armaan and Riddhima got reunited, we went to a bar and thought of just drink away the night.

Flashback

Yuvi: I knew what was going on in his mind...in his heart. I thought it was my duty as a friend, to at least make him feel better.

Both Siddhant and Yuvi took a table and called a waiter.

Yuvi: Two scotch on rocks please.

Siddhant: Nah Yuvi...i.i don't wanna drink.

Yuvi: Oh c'mon! We've seen each other after such a long time...

Siddhant: Ehh...okay.

Yuvi: Yeah! You heard the man! Keep them coming!

Yuvi: I knew he was in a lot of pain. Of course he was, he just saw his love in the arms of another man. But he would never show it, he would always keep this smile on his face and act like nothing happened, whereas whatever happened will change his life. I wanted to distract him, I wanted to take some of pain away, and this was the best way I could think of. After hours of gulping down shots of drinks, he gave up, and finally started to pour out his heart to me. I restricted myself, because I wanted to remember what he wanted to say.

Siddhant: You know...it was nice to see Riddhima so happy...sooo niiiccee.

Yuvi: Yeah. She really did seem happy.

Siddhant: She has to be...if I don't see her happy...i'll...i'll personally go and kill Armaan.

Yuvi: I'm sure you will.

Siddhant: You know what hurts the most?

Yuvi: What?

Siddhant: The people you love...forget about you...it doesn't take a second.

Yuvi: ...

Siddhant: I've cared about these people so much, and they don't hesitate to stab you in the back.

Yuvi: (silent)

Siddhant: What hurts me the most...is that...nobody even asked about me. Nobody asked, whether I was...okay or not...whether I was...alive.

Siddhant suddenly started to sing in a monotone voice, Yuvi couldn't even understand what Siddhant was singing, other than the fact that he felt guilty and sad seeing his best friend in this state. Only he could relate better than anyone else, he went through the same heartbreak, but Siddhant's was far worse.

Siddhant: JP...Jiggy...nobody...even asked anything about me. When I was standing there, nobody saw me, I was invisible...like I always was.

Yuvi: Sid...

Siddhant: Sirf naam ka dost paya hai maine.

Yuvi: Yeh sach nahi hai yaar.

Siddhant slowly raised his eyes to look at Yuvi gazed at him for seconds and smiled.

Siddhant: You're right... I have you, and Shilpa...although I don't even know where she is.

Yuvi: That's right...you have us.

Siddhant: (smiling) Speaking of friends, you know...now that I think of it, when I was a kid I had this friend, girl friend.

Yuvi: HUH?!?!?! You had a girl friend when you were a kid?!?!?!

Siddhant: Abbe nahi yaaar!! She was a friend...family friend...good girl...she was always there for me. We were the best of friends...kya naam tha? (clicks his fingers) are kya naam tha?!?!?!?

Yuvi: (waiting for his answer)

Siddhant: (gives up) Abbe yar...chod...(clicks his fingers) HAAAN!!! MISHTI!!!!!

Yuvi: Mishti? Ab yeh item kaun hai?

Siddhant: Item nahi hai, dost hai mera...pata nahi kaisi hogi woh...dekhna parega...call karunga shayad...lekin...yaar...main thak gaya hoon...thak gaya hoon zindagi se...

Yuvi: (silent)

Siddhant stared at his empty glass and after a few minutes, tears started flowing from his eyes.

Siddhant: Yaar...mera dill dukh raha hai...can you fix it?

Yuvi:...Main chah kar bhi nahi kar paungi yaar.

Siddhant: Riddhima...(sobs)...i love her yaar...main kya karun...kaise jiyun uske bina...kyun hua yeh sab mere saath?...aisa kya ghalati ki maine?

Yuvi: He just bowed his head and cried like a little boy...and I had nothing to do other than just pat his back to provide a sorry excuse of a comfort.

Flashback ends

Radhika and Sue couldn't help but feel but feel heartbroken. Not only because Siddhant was in pain, but mostly for the fact that they failed to carry out their duties as being friends, especially Radhika, because a single drop of tear on Siddhant's eyes meant her whole world crashing down...she loved him that much, and Sue felt even more guilty. Where she had experienced the luxury of being in love, her own brother got to see the nasty side of love, and she felt that it was unfair that God favoured her more than her own brother. Radhika wiped her tears away and determination washed over her face. Sue looked at her in a demanding way.

Sue: I will never forgive the people who hurt my brother, but now, since I know what your intentions are, i'm getting the slight ray of hope that you can do something...promise me...you'll do something.

Radhika: Oh I will...don't worry.

Yuvi: Then what is your plan? Coz it looks like whatever you're trying to do, it's a longshot. As far as I know, Siddhant isn't the kind of man who'll forget the person he loved and move on with another woman.

Radhika(turns away from them and looks at the city): I know...trying to make a place for myself in his heart won't be easy. But I will try my best. I will show him that he doesn't need to be alone anymore, that someone cares for him. But like you said, it's not going to be easy. (turns to them) I can't do this alone... I'm gonna need your help.

Sue: Whatever you need. But what's your plan?

Radhika: I'll be going to Lonavla tonight with him. Let's see what happens. Maa and Papa and your parents will be coming to India very soon, but for what reason, I dunno. I have to make the most out of this trip. Just for now, stay beside him, he needs you.

Yuvi: I'm guessing he doesn't know you.

Radhika: No he doesn't, I wanted to see if he remembers me, and he will...in time.

Sue: I dunno why...but I'm getting excited!

Nikki: So are we.

Radhika and the rest looked towards the entrance and found Abhi and Nikki standing there smiling.

Radhika: Nikki? You guys knew about this?

Abhi: Well of course. Parvati chachi told us everything. This is the reason why we're here in India again.

Radhika: Of course.

Nikki: And I knew the game was about to begin when I saw you here for the first time.

Radhika: Well, my first and foremost objective is to bring Siddhant back to his parents. They missed him so bad and to see him go off radar worried them sick.

Abhi: and what about your own objective?

Radhika: ...(blushing)...I'm working on that too. I've already informed maa and papa, they said that they and Siddhant's parents will be arriving after a month. He sounded real serious about it.

Abhi: Hmm...

Nikki: You know...he isn't gonna be that easy.

Radhika: Well quit demoralizing me you guys! I need your help in this, he needs all of us.

Abhi: We got your back sweetheart.

Nikki: Seeing him this miserable kills me everytime, I'm glad to see that there's a hope to see my little Sid smile again.

Abhi: And remember, he'll do anything to stay away from you. You've already cast a spell on him (*winking*)

Radhika: I know (smiling confidentaly). Dekhti hoon kab tak duur bhagta hai mujhse.

Sue: Ohh! I'm getting all excited.

Yuvi: Let the games begin.

They all look at each other and shared high fives with each other. Radhika felt much more determined and strong after recruiting her minions. She knew that she couldn't fight this battle alone. She needs all the people she can get to break Siddhant's huge emotional barrier. She smiled at Nikki and was slowly getting anxious to go to Lonavla.

Siddhant was in his cabin checking for a few things before heading to his home for packing when suddenly there was a knock on the door.

Siddhant: Come in.

He heard her payal clinking with each other and the sound of footsteps coming to a halt right behind him. Siddhant instantly got frustrated thinking about the presence behind him.

Yeh ladki mujhe kabhi akela nahi chodegi.

Siddhant: Dr. Singhania, don't you think your visit to my cab------

The moment he turned around to face the presence, his heart skipped a beat. Those hazelnut colored eyes, that beautiful face, that heart warming smile. Siddhant's eyes instantly got fixed with hers, and for a moment he forgot everything around him, and all he could see is that beautiful woman standing in front of him, holding a file. Siddhant brought himself back to the present before the person felt awkward.

Siddhant: Dr. Riddhima?

Riddhima: hmm.

Siddhant: How may I help you?

Riddhima: Actually...Dr.Shashank wanted me to give you this.

Siddhant immediately opened the file and started checking it, it was the only way to distract himself.

Riddhima: It's additional case files regarding the children in Lonavla.

Siddhant: I see.

Riddhima kept gazing at him while he tried to concentrate at the case files. Riddhima's gaze was so penetrating that he could literally feel a pair of gorgeous eyes looking at him. His mind started to wander off to those moments he spent with her, slowly and steadily. No matter how hard he tried, he would always go weak when she's around. He tried real hard looking at the cases but he couldn't. He started to feel nervous sensing her gaze. At a certain point, his anger took the better of him. He quickly shut the case files and gaze straight back at her, almost startling her.

Siddhant: Is there something else you need...Dr.Riddhima Armaan Malik?

Riddhima could feel and rage and spite underneath those words, but she absorbed it, because she realized that she made him uncomfortable. She knew that meeting with each other face to face would bring back a lot of bad memories, but she had to try it, because she missed her savior, her Siddhant, and she made a point of trying to break the ice between them. With a straight face and soft eyes, she replied...

Riddhima: No sir.

Siddhant: Then you may leave.

Riddhima: (slight nod)

Riddhima slowly walked towards the door, and opened it, and before leaving, she turned around slowly and gazed at him again, feeling slightly disheartened.

Riddhima (with a soft voice): Sid...

Siddhant instantly froze on the spot. The way she uttered his name, a feeling of nostalgia covered him. As if her presence wasn't enough, now she calls him like that. Siddhant immediately put up his serious front.

Siddhant: It's Siddh"

Riddhima: I know what it is...but to me...you'll always be Sid.

My Sid.

Siddhant's eyes was glued to the floor, feeling quite shocked.

Riddhima: And I hope that one day...we could sit together...and talk...like we used to.

Siddhant gulped down and still looked at the floor, while Riddhima slowly closed the door. He closed his eyes, letting her words sink in, and exhaled deeply, thinking how cruel life is.

Riddhima walked through the corridor thinking how much things have changed over the years. She knows who Radhika truly is now, and she knows Radhika is the key to opening his heart again, but she can't ignore the fact that she has a role to play too. She needed to see her, she walked through the corridors and thought of splashing some water on her face so she headed for the dressin room in the LR. Once she entered the LR, she kept her own case file in her locker and opened the door to the dressing room and froze when she saw the person in front of her. Radhika bowed down, splashing water on her face. As soon as she heard the door squeaking, she instantly knew who that person was. Riddhima, for some reason, felt nervous starting a conversation with her now. If she's here for Siddhant, then she probably knows that she was his ex-wife.

Radhika: I know why you're here.

Riddhima: You do?

Radhika(closing the tap and taking a towel): Of course. You thought I didn't see you hiding behind the door to the roof did ya?

Flashback

At the roof

Sue: I've seen you two together since I was a little girl, you were always there for me as a sister, how could I not know how you felt, seeing that everytime you looked at Sid, your eyes would twinkle and you'd smile like an idiot.

Radhika:...clever girl.

Radhika slowly turned around and Sue saw a tiny drop of tear on her cheek while she still smiled.

Radhika: I'm Siddhant's lover...and I'm here to mend his broken heart.

Riddhima: Is this real? Do I have a chance to be at peace?

Riddhima gazed at Radhika, and her ray of hope started to enhance with the passing seconds. The determined look on Radhika's face gave Riddhima a sense of peace. As her mind stormed a thousand different questions she heard fast moving footsteps behind her, and she immediately hid behind the door. She heard the person passing by her and peeked a little to see Yuvi arriving. She heard enough and got all the information she needed, she ran away before someone noticed her...but she was noticed...by Radhika. Radhika clearly saw a person run away before Yuvi entered. Radhika smirked when she realized who that person was.

Flashback ends

Radhika: Well aren't you curious.

Radhika said that almost scrutinizingly. Riddhima could sense another person hiding underneath that flesh.

Riddhima: I...I need to talk with you.

Radhika: Why? Can't bear to think someone else loves him.

Riddhima: (complete silence)

Radhika: Or is it because you couldn't? That's the reason Siddhant is in such pain. My...Siddhant.

Now Radhika was getting under her skin. Yes, she couldn't love him, yes she couldn't give him what was his right, but it was clear that she cared unintentionally for him and that she had a special feeling towards him that till this day, she can't figure it out. Riddhima was getting all fired up, but the she bowed her head and closed her eyes trying to calm herself down. There was no point in quarreling over this, and there was nothing that Radhika had said wrong. Radhika's scrutinizing gaze was fixed on her. Riddhima then raised her head and met with her eyes, being completely honest about her answer.

Radhika: You're right. I couldn't love him, I couldn't make him happy. The one man...who sacrificed everything for me, just to see a smile on my face, is in this state...because of me.

Radhika's scrutinizing glare was immediately calmed down when she heard the sadness in her voice and the fact that it was purely honest. Riddhima slowly walked pass her, thinking about her days with Siddhant while Radhika's eyes followed her.

Riddhima: We were always fighting when we first met. He was this...rich, spoilt brat from an NRI family, always breaking the rules, always taking things jokingly, and I was a serious and responsible doctor, always prioritizing my work but always carrying a certain emptiness in my heart.

Radhika: Wasn't Armaan there to fill this emptiness in your heart?

Riddhima sensed the scrutinizing tone again, but she took it in her stride.

Riddhima: Years ago our hospital had a terrorist attack. One of the terrorist fired a bullet while I was reaching out to Armaan and it hit me, when it did, I fell on Armaan and Armaan fell down, hitting his head on a glass table. We were both lying down, bleeding profusely. I somehow managed to survive it, but then I got the news that...Armaan was...dead.

Radhika immediately felt a certain regret uttering those words.

Riddhima: When I came back to Sanjeevani, that's when Siddhant was doing his internship. Heheheh. We fought countless of times. It was ridiculous hehehe.

Radhika's heart kind of pricked seeing Riddhima reminisce those fruitful memories.

Riddhima: But then, I found out that Armaan was actually alive, in a mental hospital, that blow in the head changed him. When I found out, I lost complete control over myself, I became hysterical, to the point of almost being mad. Betrayal and shock got the better of me.

Radhika: Betrayal?

Riddhima: My father hid the fact that Armaan was alive. He felt that it was best to just let me move on in my life. But how could I? I love him.

Radhika: (sigh)

Riddhima: Papa couldn't understand what he should do so Siddhant offered to help him, and so he sent him to aid me.

Radhika: (smiling)

Riddhima: He saved my life countless times, brought me back to my senses when at times I completely lost it. He was a true friend, and went through a great deal, just so that I could be happy.

Radhika: (smirking)

Riddhima: When finally I was unable to find Armaan, papa made the decision that we should get married...actually...it was Siddhant's idea.

Radhika: Really?

Riddhima: Yes. Seeing as to how the people were talking about my madness over a man was shadowing my family's reputation and honor. So Siddhant offered himself up to that task, and we eventually got married.

Radhika: I see...

Riddhima: After marriage, things were so clear for me, I was actually ready to move on with Sid, and I realized how much he had done for me and my family. He is my savior...my one...true...friend...without him...i wouldn't be standing in front of you.

Radhika was startled at seeing the emotions going through Riddhima, she wondered if Riddhima actually loves him or not. A lone tear escaped from Riddhima's eyes. Oh how she missed her Sid. She slowly turned towards Radhika with beads of tears still slowly flowing down her face.

Riddhima: I need him to be the Sid I once knew. I need him...to live again. I'm in pain already Radhika, but my pain is nothing compared to the pain he's been carrying for 5 years. Please...you're my only hope Radhika.

Radhika, shocked at listening to her request.

Riddhima: Will you help me?

Radhika: (silence)

Riddhima: (waiting for her answer)

Radhika: Yes...

Riddhima instantly heaved out a sigh and then smiled widely listening to her answer. She now has a hope to make things normal, just the way it used to be before. She let out a slight giggle and looked at Radhika who smiled back at her. She then walked up to her and hugged Radhika tightly.

Riddhima: Thank you...so much!

Radhika was moved by how much she actually did care for Siddhant. More so, she needed helpers now more than ever. She smiled and returned her hug.

Radhika: hehe... no problem.

They both stayed in that position for some time, while Radhika let Riddhima mellow down, comforting her like a friend.

At the evening:

Radhika was at home packing when Sue came into her room carrying a glass of water.

Sue: For God's sake just sit down and catch some breath.

Radhika: My God I didn't realize how late I am! He'll straight chop me up if I end up getting him late.

Sue: No he won't.

Radhika: Ohhoho then you haven't seen the REAL Siddhant now.

Sue: Why?

Radhika: You'll see.

Yuvi came up to their room, being his cheeky usual self.

Yuvi: Okay, one question. How is it that your house is completely opposite to his?

Radhika smiled when she heard his question.

Radhika: Because...

Sue: Because?

Radhika stopped her packing mid-way and just went into a trance. She turned towards the window and gazed at Siddhant's house. She smiled a bit while thinking about him.

Radhika: Because I wanted to be close...

Sue: ooohhh.

Radhika: Wanted to see him, check if he's alright.

Yuvi: Well ain't that creepy.

Radhika came back to reality listening to his words, she quickly turned towards him, questioning his words.

Radhika: Why?

Yuvi: It's like you're spying on him.

Radhika: Well...yeah...but for his own good you know.

Yuvi: If you two ever end up getting married, I'm so telling him this.

Radhika: Oh geez! Please don't!

Yuvi: I will.

Radhika: Yuvi! If you do that I swear...

Yuvi: You'll what?

Yuvi's mockery made Radhika chase him everywhere in the room while Sue tried to stop them. Yuvi was having a great time teasing Radhika when suddenly Radhika's cell phone beeped. They all stopped running and Radhika grabbed her phone and looked at the message.

Kaka: Beta. Siddhant tumhare ghar aaraha hai.

It was as if Radhika's heart dropped down to her belly.

Radhika: He Bhagwaan!

Radhika quickly packed everything she needed, while Yuvi and Sue sat down on the bed, looking at Radhika running here and there grabbing stuff just like two kids looking at their mom being crazy. Radhika was just grabbing things and stuffing them up in her bag. She heard the door bell ring and she went to the mirror, took some lip gloss and eye shadows and applied them like crazy while Sue and Yuvi giggled silently seeing her entertain them. She heard a second door bell and she was almost on fire.

Sue: Alright alright calm down, you've got everything you need. You're perfect, now just answer the door.

Radhika: Alright uh...foods in the fridge, your bed's have been made, everything's been settled for you, just stay here as long as you like okay.

Sue: Don't worry, we'll be sure not to overstay your welcome. You've been a good friend, in the meantime Yuvi will look for an apartment.

Radhika: Okay uh...what else...oh right! See ya!

Radhika gave a quick peck on her cheek, took her suitcase and was about to run when Yuvi stopped her.

Yuvi: Wait.

Radhika: Whaaahahat?!? He's waiting downstairs.

Yuvi: Do you honestly think you'll be able to carry that?

Yuvi grabbed the bags and took them downstairs, while Radhika followed him. Yuvi then quickly ran upstairs before Siddhant could see him. Radhika opened the door and saw an irritated Siddhant.

Siddhant: You're late.

Radhika(nervously giggling): Yes...i know.

Siddhant: get in the car.

Radhika(offended): alright.

Siddhant: Is this your stuff?

Radhika: Yeah.

Siddhant was about to grab the bags when he realized how heavy it was.

Siddhant: We're going for a 1 week trip to Lonavla for medical purposes and she packs like we're going on a vacation.

Radhika just kept standing there with her arms crossed over her chest, just watching Siddhant's antics and thinking what a hardass he's become. Siddhant kept the bags in the trunk of his car, closed the trunk and then marched straight towards the driver's seat.

Radhika: AHEM!

Her hint made him realize that he didn't offer Radhika to sit down, so he shut his eyes tight and sighed, thinking of his bad manners and then opened the front door for her.

Radhika: Why thank you sir.

Siddhant twitched his eyebrows listening to her sarcastic tone and then closed the door for her after she comfortable settled down. He then walked past the front of the car and then sat down on the driver's seat, buckling up his seat belt.

Siddhant: The weather's been so bad, I dunno how long it's going to take to reach there.

Radhika: I don't mind for a long road trip.

Siddhant looks at her scrutinizingly, while Radhika thought of her words and then sat straight up.

Radhika: I mean, it's been a long time since I've been anywhere.

Siddhant: You...(sighs)

Siddhant was mostly worried about the patients there. It's bad enough that Radhika pushed back his schedule but the bad weather could be a problem. He started his engine, shifted the gear to the first gear and drove away with her in the distance. Sue and Yuvi saw the entire scene from the balcony of Radhika's room.

Sue: It ain't gonna be easy for her to tame that lion.

Yuvi: True dat. So...wanna fool around?

Sue: What?! NO! Have some respect.

Yuvi: Oh I have the utmost respect for you and for our love and our love demands that we need some lovin' to do.

Sue: Well I'm sorry darling, but find a way to satisfy your own love. We're in someone's house for God's sake.

Yuvi: All the more reason to fool around!

Sue: You're unbelievable.

Yuvi: I know. You did marry the Mr. Unbelievable right?

Sue: Hehe. Now move aside while I clean up her room.

Yuvi: Alright alright. But don't be surprised when I find someone else to do the lovin'.

Sue: I challenge you to find someone Mr. Unbelievable. Not a girl is as crazy as I am to end up marrying to you.

Yuvi: Whoa wait wait...are you crazy about me?

Sue: AND THAT LADIES AND GENTLEMEN IS THE BIGGEST TWIST IN THE TALE OF SUVARNA AND YUVRAAJ. Why else would I marry you?

Yuvi: Well...that sounds nice.

Sue: Now was that enough to satisfy your love? Now help me with this.

Yuvi: Yes ma'am. But tonight, you're not gonna stop me from loving you.

Sue was cleaning Radhika's bed and rose up listening to his words when her eyes instantly met with his, and she started to feel weak right in the spot seeing the intensity in his eyes.

Yuvi(slowly walking towards her): Because Mrs. Suvarna Yuvraaj Oberoi, this Mr. Unbelievable needs to show you how much he loves you.

Sue: (looking at him with dreamy eyes)

Yuvi: If you're crazy for him...he's ten times crazier for you.

Sue: (blushing) Okay Mr. Unbelievable, but in one condition, you'll help me clean this mess up.

Yuvi: There goes the romantic moment. Okay meri maa, chalo saaf karte hai.

Sue laughs heartily while Yuvi rambles with himself, failing in the attempt to successfully seduce his wife.

Siddhant and Radhika were driving through a desolate lane which appears to be forests on either side of the road. It was nearly 10 in the evening and the road was pretty abandoned. Siddhant took the shortcut to reach for highway to Panchgani. Now in this situation, a girl would tremble in their knees, looking here and there; feeling scared looking at the environment. But young and beautiful Radhika just sat back, analyzing the scenary. They passed by a big sign and Radhika saw it and just for the heck of it, thought to share something.

Radhika: You know, it is said that a ghost lives there.

Siddhant: What ghost?

Radhika: The sign that we just passed by, it is said by many people that this forest is haunted. It is said that during the historic times, a youn woman and a king fell in love with each other even though the king was already married. The young woman's happiness knew no bounds when she knew that the King loves her, so she asked if they could get married. Of course this was all done in secret, but the Queen's maid saw all of this and reported it to the Queen. Out of anger and betrayal, the Queen sentenced the young woman to death, by cursing her saying that she'll never find true love and that she'll always be incomplete. Now her ghost is trapped in this realm and she's trapped here for 350 years and-

Siddhant: Oh would you just be quiet!

Radhika(offended): okay okay, jeez...i think someone's scared.

Siddhant: (in a grunt voice) I'm not scared. And you know what...that woman deserved. I think the King deserved to die more than the woman, serves him right to cheat on his wife.

Radhika: (observing him closely)

Siddhant: This is why I hate people who betray others, it ends up hurting the ones you love.

Radhika for some reason had a faint idea of why Siddhant uttered those words with raw rage.

Radhika: Does it have to do something with his own marriage? Or maybe friends?

Radhika was brutally brought back to the present hearing Siddhant's voice.

Siddhant: I would appreciate it, if you stayed quiet until we reach the highway.

Radhika: Fine...jerk.

Siddhant looked at Radhika with irritation and then focused on the road again.

Siddhant kept driving the road but his mind was somewhere else. He didn't know why he's always irritated with Radhika, or the mere tone of her voice pisses him off. He couldn't put a finger on why she could affect him in this way. He realized that it was his own fault; he was being a real jerk with her, while she was just sharing something that she thought was interesting. He sighed.

Siddhant: I apologize.

Radhika: For what?

Siddhant: ...for being a jerk.

Radhika: Wow!! You do have a heart in there!! You do have feelings!! At one point I was beginning to think you're a cyborg.

Siddhant(in a uninterested voice): that's hilarious.

Radhika looked at Siddhant and scoffed.

Radhika: Anyway, apology accepted.

Siddhant: Oh thank God. Now she can shut up.

Minutes later they finally pass the lane and enter the highway to Panchgani. About 10 minutes into the highway and they already caught up with traffic. Siddhant was all shifty in his seat while Radhika listened to music in her cell phone.

Radhika(singing and head bobbing): I kissed a girl and I liked it. Lalalalalaaalala...

Siddhant: Ugh...

Radhika(singing and head bobbing): It felt so wrong, it felt so right, don't mean I'm in love tonight

I kissed a girl and I liked it, I liked it.

Listening to those lyrics, it made Siddhant's stomach churn upside down. He couldn't help but feel so irritated.

Siddhant: She has such bad taste in music.

Siddhant: Hey.

Radhika(singing): laaalallaaala.

Siddhant: Hey!

Radhika(singing): laaalallaaala.

Siddhant(shouting): HEY!!!!!!

Radhika(startled): Hey whoa what?!?! What is it?!!

Siddhant(In a deep voice): You mind not singing that disgusting song out loud?

Radhika: Why? Is it bugging you?

Siddhant: ...What do you think?

Siddhant glared at her in such a way that it made her stop the song and pull out the ear plugs from her ear. Siddhant then sat back and gazed at the traffic.

Siddhant: It's 11 in the evening and we still not halfway to Panchgani. I think I should call Rekha Maasi.

Radhika: Rekha Maasi?

Siddhant: She's the caretaker of the Panchgani orphanage.

Siddhant dialed up her number and called her.

Rekha: Hello?

Siddhant: Hello? Rekha Maasi? Namaste. It's me Siddhant.

Rekha: Are Siddhant beta!!! How are you?

Siddhant: I'm fine thank you Maasi. I trust by now you got the news that me along with my colleague are coming to the orphanage?

Rekha: Yes yes. Shashank explained everything to me? When will you reach here?

Siddhant: That's the reason why I called you, it might be late. The weather is quite bad, plus there's a lot of traffic.

Rekha: Don't worry darling, you come here safe and sound.

Siddhant: I will. Jai Shri Krishna.

Rekha: Jai Shri Krishna.

Siddhant: (sigh) well that settles one thing. Now we can just take our time.

Radhika felt this was the best time to attack.

Radhika: We do? Coz I'm really hungry.

Siddhant: Well...it is late, and I'm kinda hungry too.

Radhika(smiling): hmmm...

Siddhant: So where would you wanna go? Italian, Indian, Chinese?

Radhika: At a Dhaba.

Siddhant: Dhaba?

Radhika: Yeah!

Siddhant: You wanna go at a Dhaba.

Radhika: I'm sorry. But do you see any hotshot restaurants here?

Siddhant: (glaring at her)

Radhika: Dhaba it is. C'mon giddy up!

Siddhant: What an irritating girl.

Completely irritated with her, they plan on stopping at a dhaba. As the traffic finally started to move, Radhika honestly couldn't help but feel really hungry. The last thing she wanted was Siddhant to hear her tummy roll. Now that would've been plain embarrassing. Siddhant could see Radhika fidgeting in her seat and could understand that she was hungry. So he drove the car and he immediately saw a dhaba nearby.

Radhika: Yes! Finally!

Siddhant looked at her, and she immediately shut her mouth. Siddhant parked the car nearby and got out of the car. He then moved towards Radhika's side and opened the door for her. The got out of the car, and she couldn't resist the fresh monsoon air as she filled her lungs with it.

Radhika: Isn't the weather awesome?

Siddhant: Yeah.

Radhika: Let's go!

Radhika walked ahead of Siddhant and Siddhant kept looking here and there when he suddenly froze in the spot.

Siddhant: No.

Siddhant quickly realized, it was the same dhaba that he brought Riddhima over when they were going for the Sanjeevani concert, and more importantly, right after he confessed what she meant to him. Radhika walked but suddenly stopped noticing that Siddhant isn't following her. She turned around and saw Siddhant lost in his memories with a melancholic expression. Radhika's mind switched from her fun self to the real Radhika. She could clearly see a thousand different emotions going through his mind. If it was the right time, she would've ran towards Siddhant and hugged him tight until he forgets those painful memories. But now is not the right time, and even though Riddhima was the one to make him go through all of this, she herself is in a cage filled with regret. Radhika did promise Riddhima that she'll be with Siddhant, but more importantly, it was a promise she made to herself. Radhika pushed that thought out the window and focused on Siddhant.

Radhika: Dr. Siddhant?!?!?

Siddhant was brought back to the present by Radhika's shrilling voice. For a moment, he despised Radhika and her irritating voice of hers. Little did he know that she did that intentionally, Siddhant looked at her with irritation while she was her jolly self.

Radhika: Let's go!

Siddhant: This woman...

Siddhant slowly walked into the dhaba without realizing the fact that Radhika just saved him from drowning in his pool of forgotten memories.

The moment Siddhant entered the dhaba, he couldn't help but feel confused. People were eating their food like a bunch of gluttons, no table manners at all.

Man: Oy koi lassi wassi la de!

Siddhant gazed at the man, utterly confused. Radhika was all excited, but seeing Siddhant standing idly again analyzing the surrounding, she walked towards him.

Radhika(teasing): Sir? What's wrong? Scared?

Siddhant was taken aback by her words.

Radhika: I knew it, this sort of place is out of your league. If you want, we can go someplace else?

Siddhant: Have I said anything about me not liking this place? No.

Radhika: (obeidiently shaking her head)

Siddhant walked towards a table, when he slightly tripped over a rug.

Siddhant: Tsk.

Radhika couldn't help but giggle.

He reached for a table but analyzed the sanity of it. Even though he was tough and prim and proper, he was also very cautious about hygine. Radhika stood behind him and poked him on the shoulder. Siddhant looked at Radhika and he stepped aside, letting her sit first while he still kept looking here and there. Finally he was sitting down when one of the legs of the chair snapped, making him almost fall on the ground. Luckily he held the table and saved himself from the humiliation. Radhika cupped her mouth, trying hard not to laugh but this didn't escape Siddhant's eyes.

Radhika: Oy chotu! Ek chair le aana.

A teenager brough another chair, and before Siddhant could sit on it, he tested the agility of the chair.

Radhika: The chair is fine for God's sake, sit down.

Siddhant(frustrated): You better watch your mouth. You're talking to your senior.

Radhika(irritated by his remark): Well you are making a fuss out of nothing, now can we order our food so I can eat?

Siddhant: Fine.

Siddhant was obviously frustrated by the fact that he's eating at the same dhaba where he brought his ex-wife but this time with a stranger, and the fact that he's already making a fool out of himself. The teenager took a out a notepad and a pencil.

Teenage: Bolo saab. Kya leke aau? Aalo matar, Daal fry, chicken masala, shahe panir-

Siddhant: Ek minute...menu card nahi hai?

Radhika couldn't help but smile at his question.

Teenager: Nahi saab yaha nahi banta.

Siddhant: Lekin-

Radhika: Sir. Hold on.

Radhika: aap ek kaam kijiye, aap ek daal makhni, ek butter chicken, ek shahe panir...

Siddhant: (looking at her ordering so many food)

Radhika: ...do lassiyan, aur haan lache paratha leke aaye.

Siddhant: (his mouth slightly dropping)

Radhika: aur saath me peyaaz kat kar laana.

The teenager nodded his head and went away.

Siddhant: Dr. Radhika, all this food...just for us?

Radhika: W..why sir? Is it not enough? We'll order more later.

Siddhant: (shockingly staring at her)

Radhika: You see...i don't like wasting food.

Siddhant: Not only does she have bad taste in music...she eats a lot as well.

While they were waiting for food, a bunch of kids just ran through the entrance and started playing tag.

Man: Oy puttar aaram se! idhar betho aaram se. haan.

The family sat on a table and Radhika smiled and greeted them.

Radhika: Sasriyakal bhabi ji.

Woman: Sasriyakal ji!

Radhika: Aapka dupatta bara sona hai.

Siddhant gazed at Radhika and then shifted his gaze to the woman. The man noticed Siddhant sitting there and as a usual Punjabi he got excited.

Man: Oh bhaisahab! Sasriyakal ji!

Siddhant(a slight nod):... Hmm

The man and the woman looked at each other disappointed at the response. Siddhant was clearly not comfortable at this place.

Woman: Yeh banda toh bara aajeeb hai. Are tujhe kahan se mil gaya?

Siddhant was shocked hearing this.

Radhika: Are nahi nahi, yeh Mumbai ke kothe me rehne wale log aaise hi hote hai.

Siddhant glared at Radhika.

Radhika: Nah unhe hasna aata hai, aur nahi kisi se baath-

Radhika looked at Siddhant angrily gazing at her.

Radhika: -aata hai.

Radhika instantly stopped talking.

Just then two Punjabi kids came up to him and started poking him. Siddhant gazed at him.

Kid1: Coat kyun pehna hai? Thand lag rahi hai?

Siddhant: Nahi toh.

Siddhant slowly opened his coat and kept it securely beside him. The kid then pointed at his collar.

Siddhant: Hmm.

Siddhant slowly unbuttoned his collar, looking more casual now.

Kid1: Yeh bahar kiski gaari hai? Tumhari hai?

Kid2: aap hume uss me ghumao ge?

Siddhant couldn't say anything to an innocent child, he stared at Radhika while she smiled at the kids.

Siddhant: This woman...is dangerous.

The kid noticed his gaze and then poked him.

Kid1: Aap uss aunty ko ghur kyun rahe ho?

Siddhant: Kya?

Kid1: Haan.

Siddhant: Main kisiko ghur nahi raha hoon.

Man: Are bache idhar aajao!

Siddhant heaved a sigh of relief.

Radhika: Sir? You like kids?

Siddhant(immediately): No! I don't like kids.

Just then the food arrived. Two big plates just filled with food. Siddhant was utterly confused now, he hasn't experienced something like this. Radhika looked at him.

Radhika: Sir? What's wrong? Dig in.

Siddhant: hmm. But first I need to wash my hands.

Radhika: Does a lion ever wash his hands?

Siddhant: What?

Radhika: eh...nothing. Chotu!

The teenager came running to them.

Radhika: Inki haath dhula de.

The teenager brought a jug of water.

Siddhant: Yehi pe dhona hai?

Teenaager: Yahapar nahi toh kya chandigargh jaake dhoge?

Siddhant was taken back by his remark, clenching his jaws. The teenager poured the water while he washed his hands with frustration.

Siddhant: Napkin dena.

The teenager gave his cloth to him, Siddhant once again, frustrated by everything.

Siddhant: Nahi chahye.

Radhika enjoyed this scenary, it's been a long time since she's seen Siddhant like this.

Siddhant was about to wipe the water on his pants but decided not to. His gaze got fixed at something really brutal. A man, bringing their glasses of water with his fingers dipped in them, holding two glasses together like that and placed it on their table that made Siddhant feel utterly disgusted.

Radhika: Sir? Let's start. Their butter chicken is awesome!

Radhika chewed a morsel of food and savoured the explosive taste of it.

Radhika: mmm. Their daal makhni is really good. Dig in!

Siddhant lost his apetite long ago. People around him were pouring food all over their plates and mixing them with their fingers, made him sick. His gaze got fixed on Radhika, while she ate her food gracefully biting green chilli along the way.

Radhika: You know? A food is incomplete without green chilli. Once that spice hits your tongue, it's mouth watering. Try it!

Siddhant: No thanks.

Man: Are bhai saab! Ek baat bataun aapko? Ek dum theek keh rahe hai aap. Inn auroton ke baat me mat aana. Ek baar meri patni mera pyaar hasil karne ke liye pata kya bola? Bola ke pandra mirchi kha jao! Ab bhai saab tab jaake inko vishwaas hua, ke main inse pyaar karta hoon. Who gaana suna aapne? Mohabbat hai mirchi janam! HAHAHAHA!!!!

Siddhant: (looking at him disgustingly)

Radhika: Pandra mirchi?! Yeh toh koi Punjab ka dillwala hi kar sakhta hai! Hai na uncle ji? (intentionally saying) Sheher me kahan mill sakhta aise dillwale?

Woman: Aisa kyun bol rahi hai kuriye? Yeh tera sher dekhne me toh bara dill wala lagta hai.

Siddhant: (shocked)

Radhika(blushing): Hehehehe! Nahi! Yeh mere sher nahi hai!

Siddhant: (blushing)

Radhika: Mera matlab hai, aisa kuch nahi hai! Yeh meri boss hai. Sirf boss.

Woman: Are? Toh kya boss dillwale nahi hote?

Radhika: Nahi aunty ji. Main to mazag kar rahi thi. Yeh mirchi nahi kha payenge. Jane dijiye na.

Siddhant: (feeling offended and challenged) What do you think? I can't eat chilli?

Radhika: No sir I was just-

Siddhant: You think I can't eat chilli huh?

Siddhant took a big fat green chilli, while Radhika was surprised seeing his confidence. Siddhant bit the chilli and kept chewing it as if he was chewing wafer sticks.

Radhika: Sir?!?!?! These are really spicy?!?!?!

The couple was shocked as well seeing him bolstering like that. Siddhant ate one chilli after another until his eyes watered up and his started coughing, he could feel his throat tearing apart with all that chilli. Radhika kept on stopping him but he wouldn't. Surprised with his stubbornness, she finally held his hand, making him stop. Siddhant slowly raised his teary eyes and met with Radhika's who was shocked to the core. She quickly handed him a glass of lassi before he started having heartburn. Like an obedient child, Siddhant gulped down the glass of lassi, letting the cold lassi cool down his aching throat, while Radhika stared at him feeling guilty. Siddhant gulped down the lassi gazing at her, wondering why she looked sad all of a sudden. As he finished it, his upper lip was covered with lassi.

Woman: Dekha kuriye? Ab pata chala kitna dillwala hai tera munda?

Siddhant was feeling better, accomplishing something.

Radhika: Nahi aunty, aisi koi baat nahi hai. Maine aapse kaha na...yes sirf meri boss hai.

Siddhant: hmm.

Woman: acha baba sorry ji. Sorry.

Radhika slowly looked at Siddhant and noticed the lassi patch on his mouth. She politely pointed it out to him but he couldn't understand it. He ended up wiping away his tears. Radhika leaned forward and put her fingers on his lips. He gazed at Radhika while she wiped away the lassi from his lips, he could feel her fingers shaking. Radhika felt her heart skip beats after beats. She couldn't stop her fingers from shaking. She fixed her eyes with his and shared an eye-lock. For a moment, Siddhant forgot where he was, all he could see were those dark brown orbs, those eyes, which tried to say something to him but he was still blind to see. Radhika realized what she as doing and she swiftly wiped away the lassi from his lips. Siddhant sat up straight, realizing the awkwardness that just surrounded them.

Siddhant: We uh...we need to get going.

Radhika: Hmm.

The teenager came up to them and received the bill. They both got up, Siddhant wore his coat and they both walked towards the car. Radhika walked ahead of him while his eyes got fixed at one thing, the bench where Riddhima and Siddhant enjoyed their cup of tea. He could see his younger self talking to Riddhima and smiling and giggling. Siddhant missed those times...so badly. Radhika once again brought him back to his senses and he realized what he was doing. He heaved a huge sigh and then walked towards his car. They both sat down and they drove away to Panchgani.

After a good 2 hours, they finally reached the orphanage. As Siddhant drove through the driveway, Radhika was amazed by the beauty of the orphanage. She was surprised to see such a beautiful place. Siddhant parked the car in front of the doorway, Rekha Maasi opened the door, came out and quickly greeted them.

Rekha Maasi: Are! Siddhant beta! Chalo jaldi aajao, thand lag jaygi.

Siddhant couldn't help but realize that he indeed missed her. He came forward and touched her feet.

Rekha Maasi: Are jeete raho beta. And who's this?

Siddhant: This is my colleague, she's a pediatrician sent here by Dr.Shashank.

Radhika: Namaste.

Rekha Maasi: Namaste.

Girl: Genie bhaiyya??!?

Siddhant could instantly understand that voice. As he saw the girl in front of her, he couldn't believe his eyes, she's gotten tall and elegant and beautiful, but her eyes showed the same mischeviousness she always had.

Siddhant: Tamanna?!?!?!

Tamanna: Genie bhaiyya!!!!!!!!!

Tamanna ran towards him and hugged him tight.

Siddhant: Holy God, you've gotten so big!!! And so tall!!!

Tamanna: I missed you so much you have no idea. Why didn't you come and visit me huh?!?!

Radhika saw another side of Siddhant with this little girl, she saw the Siddhant she knew before. More surprisingly, his attitude and behavior comepletely changed.

Siddhant: Well Tamanna. It's a long story.

Tamanna: Well go on! I have all the time.

Rekha Maasi: No you don't. It's getting late young lady, no go to sleep.

Tamanna: But-

Rekha Maasi: Go. Don't worry, they're here to stay. You can talk all you want tomorrow morning.

Tamanna: Really?! You're here to stay.

Siddhant: Yes.

Tamanna: And who's she?

Radhika: Oh! Silly me. (knelt down in front of her) I'm Radhika, I'm doctor too.

Tamanna gazed at this beautiful woman. More importantly, she reminded her of Riddhima, and thinking about Riddhima, she wondered what happened to her. She's seen their love story bloom, Siddhant coming here without her, made this little girl wonder.

Tamanna: hhhiii...

Rekha Maasi: Okay, it's getting late, you go to bed Tamanna.

Tamanna: Okay. See you guys tomorrow.

Siddhant: Tomorrow.

Radhika: What a sweet kid. I thought you didn't like kids?

Rekha Maasi: If he said that to you, he lied. He loves kids too much to the point he spoils them.

Siddhant: ...

Radhika: (smiling)

Rekha Maasi: I'll tell Kaka to bring your luggages inside, in the meantime, get inside and warm yourselves up.

Siddhant: hmm.

Siddhant followed Rekha inside the house while Radhika stood there with her hands on her hips, smiling mischiviously.

Radhika: Well well...this is gonna be interesting.

She went inside the house, excited for what this trip will bring to her.

Part 10:

Radhika and Siddhant both enter the house while one of the servants brought their luggage inside. Tamanna was so pumped up seeing Siddhant after so many years, all her sleep went away, but because Maasi insisted that she needed to go to sleep, Tamanna reluctantly had to go. As Kaka brought the luggages, he was carrying one that nearly made him fall flat on the ground. He was walking sideways like a crab, almost getting crushed by the sheer weight of the bag. The sight was so funny, it made Tamanna laugh while she entered her room.

Kaka: Forgive me for asking this...but what the hell is in this bag?

Radhika: Oh! That's mine.

Siddhant rolled his eyes thinking it was obvious. Women need things they won't really use.

Siddhant: I think he meant what's in this bag that's making him bury himself to the ground.

Radhika: Stuff.

Siddhant(irritated by her response): Of course.

Maasi saw them lightly bickering and it amused her. Radhika shot looks at him while he gazed straight ahead, sliding his hands in his pockets casually.

Maasi saw a glass of milk on the table and her eyes widened, she immediately gazed at Tamanna.

Maasi: You didn't drink your milk?

Tamanna: You've been making me drink milk for 8 years now, I think it's time I take a break.

Maasi: You sit here right now and drink this milk.

Tamanna: But I don't want to!

Radhika: Do you wanna be beautiful?

Tamanna: Of course!

Radhika: Then drink the milk.

Tamanna: Wha...how does milk make you beautiful?

Siddhant: Yeah how does milk make you beautiful?

Siddhant looked at her boastfully with his arms crossed over his chest, challenging her for an answer. Radhika looked at him grimly, irritated by his attitude. She shifted her gaze to Tamanna and immediately smiled at her while kneeling down to her, beginning to explain.

Radhika: You see darling, milk gives you a natural glow. Milk has a thing called amino acids that moisturize, lactic acid that exfoliates as well as cleanses, and enzymes that help smoothen skin.

Tamanna: Huh!?!?!?

Radhika: Yep. It also helps you have a beautiful figure (holding her waist), it helps you sleep better... bottom line...milk is good for your body. Just because your Genie bhaiyya (looking at him) doesn't like milk, doesn't mean you shouldn't.

Siddhant clenched his jaws tight while staring at her casually.

Tamanna: Wow...Maasi you never told me that.

Maasi(amused at Radhika and Siddhant's bickering): I couldn't explain it to you in such a detailed fashion darling, but I did tell you milk is good for you didn't i?

Tamanna (bowing her head): Okay...I'll drink the milk.

Tamanna slowly sat on down on her chair and gulped down the milk while Radhika smiled at Siddhant with a sense of accomplishment.

Siddhant(angrily): This woman...

Tamanna gulped down the last drop of milk left in her glass and gave a slight disgusted look towards Radhika, but Radhika's smile made her smile and then let out a wonderful giggle. Maasi slithered towards Siddhant and leaned to his ear.

Maasi: Careful...you've got a competition.

Siddhant kept on gazing at Tamanna, showing no reaction to Maasi's words, but he admitted, he did get irritated by this.

Radhika: Now be a good girl and go to sleep.

Tamanna: Okay.

Tamanna walked reached to the stairs but before stepping up, she turned back and smiled at Radhika.

Tamanna: I like you.

Radhika smiled and gave her a flying kiss. Siddhant saw Tamanna blush as she ran upstairs to the Children's room. Radhika then turned towards Siddhant who gazed at the floor while sliding his hands in his pockets, ignoring Radhika's gaze. Tamanna didn't even say goodnight to him.

Maasi: Well your rooms are all ready; if you need anything just ask.

Siddhant(bowing his head): Thank you.

Maasi(amazed at his manners): Wehheheh! You're welcome.

Siddhant just gave a very light smile and then picked up his luggage and walked away slowly. Radhika kept on gazing at him while the sound of his footsteps alone filled the silence. Maasi also gazed at him walking in a distance. She was surprised by the way he changed. This is clearly not the Sid she knew; she could clearly see pain and sorrow in his eyes. Maasi saw Radhika gazing at him with a faraway look and she was really intrigued by this woman. Radhika was brought back to reality when she felt Maasi's hand on her shoulder. Maasi smiled at her catching her red handed, and Radhika's whole head started to blush.

Radhika: I-I better go.

Maasi: Mmmhm.

Maasi pointed her, the direction to her room and she obediently walked away. Maasi smiled looking at Radhika but then her smile vanished when she started thinking about Siddhant.

Maasi: What happened to him?

She sighed and then walked away to her room.

At 2:00 a.m

Siddhant! Meri baat toh suno!! Jaisa tum soch rahe ho waise kuch nahi hai!!

Aisa kuch nahi hai?! Lekin in aakhon ko kaise samjhaun? Kaise samjhaun ki who jo dekha hai...waisa kuch nahi hai?

Siddhant tossed and turned in his sleep

Agar aisa tha toh pehle bata dete? Itna natak karne ki kya zarurat thi? Wahan Sanjeevani me toh aisa lagta hai ki ek dusre ka shakal hi nahi dekhna chahte...aur yaha akele me...

Bass Siddhant!! Riddhima ke bare me aisa kuch bhi mat bolna!

Siddhant flinched in his sleep, sweating profusely.

Siddhant me sach bata rahi hoon, mere per me chot-

Jhoot! Phir jhoot!

Main jhoot nahi bol rahi!

Ab jhoot bolkar bhi kya fayda hai Riddhima? Aur waise bhi...main hota kaun hoon jisse tum explanation de rahi ho? Waise saare haq toh tum chin hi chuke ho na mujhse? Divorce papers par sign karke? Ab tum Armaan ke saath kuch bhi karo, mujhe use kya-

BAS KARO SID!

WAHI TOH MAIN KEH RAHA HOON RIDDHIMA! BAS KARO! BAS KARO YEH NATAK KARNA! Main hi pagal tha! Ummed lagakar betha thi ki...humare beech me jo hai who theek ho jayga! LEKIN SACH TOH YEH HAI KI TUM AAJ BHI ARMAAN KO APNE DILL SE NAHI NIKAL PAYI HO!!

Siddhant clasped his blanket tightly, reliving all those memories again.

Tumhe Riddhima ke bare aisa baat karne ka koi haq nahi! (grabs his collar)

SID!!!!

Siddhant woke up with a jolt, he could feel his heart racing as he breathed heavily. He looked at his pillow and saw cover wet, he was sweating like anything. He sat up, closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He knew this was inevitable, too many bad memories of this place. But he promised himself that it wouldn't affect his performance, clearly he was doing a bad job at keeping it. He dragged his hands down his face wondering how his life turned into this. Suddenly he started feeling pain in his tummy. The pain started to escalate and he noticed that he had a stomachache for quite some time, but his mind was too indulged in the dream. He stood up, feeling quite uncomfortable. He admitted to himself that it was indeed a bad idea to eat all those chillies.

Siddhant: Ugh!

He wore his sandals, wore a black vest, opened the door and made way to the kitchen.

As he went down the stairs he noticed a faint light and noises coming from the kitchen. He started getting cautious so he tip toed to the kitchen and hid behing the pillar. He saw a person bending down, trying to find something and as soon as he realized who that person was, he came out of the pillar and pretended that he didn't have a stomachache.

Siddhant: What are you doing?

Siddhant startled Radhika and she nearly dropped the carton of milk.

Radhika: Holy cow! I mean, you scared me!

Siddhant(scrutinizing her): mmhm. What are you doing?

Radhika: can't you see? I'm trying to have a glass of milk.

Siddhant: (Eyeing her in the dark)

Radhika: What brings you here?

Siddhant: hmm? Oh-i-uh- I'm here to have a glass of water.

Radhika(scrutinizing him): mmhm.

Siddhant walks over to the refridgerator in a funny way, trying hard not to show what he's going through. He opens the door to the fridge and takes out the water bottle. Radhika smiled cheekily seeing Siddhant's state. He pulled a chair and then sat down in front of Radhika, not knowing that his face revealed everything that he's trying to hide. Siddhant had a lot of run-ins when he was in Shimla, he was gang attacked by goons, he was tortured, he went through a whole lot of hell, but this...was something unbearable. Siddhant poured a glass of water and gulped down the entire glass at one go. His eyes suddenly got fixed with Radhika's and he saw that she was smiling cheekily.

Siddhant: What?

Radhika: Those chillies giving you a pain in the...(makes a censor sound) right? Hehehehehe!

Siddhant: (rolls his eyes)

Radhika: I told you, this kind of challenge is not for you.

Siddhant: (*looks away*)

Radhika: By the way...what did you do that?

Siddhant: (stays quiet)

Radhika: Ah well.

Radhika gets up and opens the door to the cupboard and brings out a bottle of Antacide and puts it in front of Siddhant.

Radhika: Here, drink it, you'll feel better.

Siddhant looks at the bottle and drinks three quarters of it.

Radhika: Jeez...that bad?

Siddhant: You have no idea.

Siddhant looks at Radhika and was intrigued.

Siddhant(in a husky voice): What stole away your sleep?

Radhika: Oh! I ask you questions and Mr.Perfect doesn't want to answer. I ain't gonna answer.

Siddhant: Suit yourself.

Radhika looked away while sipping her milk while Siddhant toyed with his glass.

Radhika: I can't sleep without having some milk.

She saw a tiny smirk form on the corner of his lips while he still toyed with his glass. She didn't know whether that was an insult or just admiration. She took that as an insult and gulped down the glass of milk that was remaining while Siddhant gazed at her. She then put the glass on the table and wiped away her lips. Siddhant was confused by her sudden change of behavior as she stood up and started to walk away when her foot slipped and was about to fall.

Radhika: (loud gasp)

Siddhant quickly ran to her and caught her on time. Radhika quickly held his vest and quickly stabilized herself. Siddhant's heart kept beating fast, he was lucky that he caught her on time. In the dark, the only feature he could see of her was her face, illuminating from the light coming from the fridge.

Sab Mera Tu...

Sab Mera Tu...

Both of their eyes were locked on each other. She could feel his skin against her fingers; she could feel her heart skip beats as Siddhant had his arms around her tender waist, holding her tight. As Siddhant looked deep into her eyes, he could feel her nails hesitatingly digging in his neck, her breath softly touching his lips. He didn't know why, but there was something so familiar about her, as if he's met this person before in his life. Radhika although didn't plan this, but she was glad that God was making a way for her, and as good as this moment was for her, she has to end it. Siddhant realized what he was doing and he quickly helped her stand up. Radhika thanked God it was dark; otherwise Siddhant would've clearly seen how miserably she was blushing. Siddhant was trying hard to mask his embarrassment.

Siddhant: Walk carefully for God's sake...and...thank you.

Radhika: (surprised)

Siddhant: For the antacid, I'm feeling better.

Radhika: No problem...and thank you.

Siddhant: (surprised)

Radhika: For catching me, saved me the embarrassment of falling in front of my DO.

Siddhant: ah. No problem.

Siddhant started walking away fast when he suddenly stopped; he turned around to see Radhika staring back at him, expecting him to say something.

Siddhant: We have a long day tomorrow, get ample rest.

Radhika: Yes sir.

Siddhant then walked away to his room while Radhika still tried to stop the butterflies in her tummy. She smiled and was glad to see that things were going her way. Rest assured, they both slept peacefully that night...especially Siddhant.

At 5:30 a.m

Vishal entered the Locker Room all tired and drowsy. He slumped on the bench and dug his face deep in his hands. He wondered why he even took this road to becoming a doctor. He still remembered when he graduated from high school, his mother asked him to be a doctor. Even though he behaves like this playboy, snotty brat whose only concern is how to have as much as fun he can have, he loved his mother dearly, and he couldn't turn

her down, and now here he is, doing rounds and being stuck at a hospital for 48 hours straight.

Vishal: Maa...why did you have to look at me with those eyes of yours and ask me to become this?

He loved his mother, probably because she understood him more than anyone. He never had a good relationship with his father. He couldn't remember the last time when his father ever looked at him and smiled at him with pride in his heart. The beautiful feminine face of his mother flashed in his mind and a small smile appeared on his lips. His smile vanished when he felt a presence beside him.

Vishal: You?!

Priya sat beside him, wondering why he was feeling so low.

Priya: I do have a name you dummy.

Vishal: Ugh...what do you want?

Priya: Well I was gonna say, "Why the long face buddy?", but your attitude kinda blew it off.

Vishal(tiredly): great...

Priya: Jeez if you get this tired after doing a 48 hour shift, what will you do when you become a senior?

Vishal looked at her with surprise.

Vishal: What the hell do you mean?

Priya: I mean look at Dr.Armaan, Dr.Riddhima, Dr.Siddhant. I mean that man works ten times more hard than you. I've seen him work 4 days straight without a yawn.

Vishal: That man ain't human. Have you ever seen his face? He looks like someone wedgied him so hard that his face got stuck like that.

Listening to that Priya laughed so hard that she couldn't breathe. Vishal just kept gazing at her with tired eyes and reluctantly admitted to herself, that she had a beautiful laugh. The sound of her laugh was so funny, even he started smiling, and in a moment he completely forgot that he was tired.

Priya: Oh my God! I needed that. Thank you.

Vishal: Mmhm.

Priya: He is a bit sadu wala'-

Vishal looked at her with a say what?' look.

Priya: Okay a lot sadu'. But I hear that he wasn't always like that.

Vishal: What do you mean?

Priya: I mean, he wasn't like this. I think something happened to him.

Vishal: This job is what happened to him, kept on working so hard that he works like a machine rather than a human being.

Priya: I think so...he rarely smiles.

Vishal: Wedgie...

Priya smiled at him. Just then Muskaan, Anjie, Nikki and Riddhima came in. They saw the tired Vishal and asked what happened.

Riddhima: Why the long face?

Vishal: I'm just tired ma'am.

Nikki: Ah newbies. Yeah we've been through all of this.

Vishal: I'm sure.

Muskaan: Well you better get used to it. Go to the caf and drink some coffee, that'll boost you up.

Vishal: Ma'am I've had 9 cups already.

Anjie: What?!? Shit, well you better go home.

Vishal: I need Dr. Kirti's permission for that ma'am.

Kirti: Permission granted.

Kirti walked in holding her stethoscope and her lab coat on her arm.

Vishal: Ganpati Bappa Morya!!! I'm gone!

Vishal put everything in his locker, and stormed out of that room. Priya laughed at his behavior with a sparkle in her eyes, this intrigued Muskaan.

Muskaan: I see we've got an admirer here.

Priya: What?!? No!

Muskaan: I didn't say it was you.

Priya: Well...He's funny...but that's it.

Muskaan: mmhm.

Kirti: My God it's been a long night. With Siddhant, things would've been so much easier.

Nikki: I know, doing your job as well as handling the entire hospital is quite the feat.

Kirti: I can't even do half of his job. I dunno what I was thinking when I opted for DO.

Anjie: But you've done this before.

Kirti: Not like this. This is something way more difficult.

Riddhima: He's changed a lot...hasn't he?

Kirti understood by what she meant. Her tone gave away the fact at how sad she feels whenever she even talks about Siddhant.

Kirti: Yeah he did. But a good change.

Riddhima: How is this good ma'am? He completely forgot how to live.

Priya: I agree ma'am.

They all looked at Priya, which startled her at first.

Priya: He looks like as if he knows nothing except his work.

Muskaan: Okay whatever happened between you and Sid-

Anjie pinched her to shut up. Muskaan looked at her all shocked and Anjie signaled her that Priya was here. If one of the interns knew about Siddhant's backstory, God knows what they might think about Riddhima and Armaan. Muskaan understood immediately and kept quiet but it intrigued Priya.

Priya(thinking): Why did Dr.Anjie interrupt her like that?

Kirti: Anyway, it's been a long day. You doctors should get some rest, so go home and I want each and every one of you here by tomorrow at 6 p.m sharp. We will be getting news from Lonavla about the kids there as well.

All: Yes ma'am.

Kirti: Dismissed.

Everyone left the Locker Room except Priya, who thoroughly intrigued at their conversation.

The next day, at 9:00 a.m:

Siddhant woke up with a jolt when he heard his alarm ringing. He reached out to his alarm clock and tiredly turned it off. With his narrowed eyes, he looked at the clock and was astonished that it was already 9 a.m. He sat up straight and wondered how he could have overslept. He always wakes up at 7 in the morning, does 100 push-ups, 150 crunches, and then walks out the door for a 30 minute long jogging. He never ever missed that. Sunlight pierced through windows and shone right on him. He realized how late he is and was frustrated that no one woke him up, especially Radhika. He jumped off of his bed, pulled out his clothes and went to take a nice hot bath.

Thirty minutes later he walked out of the washroom with only a towel covering his waist. He quickly wore his boxer shorts and then slid his pants up his legs. He took out an itch-relief cream and stood in front of the mirror, and he cautiously applied it on his chest, the wound he took for Riddhima. He's been through a lot during his time in Shimla, three quarters of his body is filled with scar tissues, at times he forgets he ever had any sort of injuries, but this one scar in particular always reminded him the reason for which he has this. Today it was irritating him way too much so he applied wads of cotton on it and bandaged it. He then wore his navy blue Nautica shirt and tucked it in his pants, buttoned up his cuffs and his shirt, back-brushed his hair and slowly wore his spectacles. He then applied a little body spray on himself, looked himself in the mirror and was not impressed at all. He then marched out of the door.

Once he got out of his room, he noticed that neither Maasi, nor Radhika was sighted anywhere. Not even the kids.

Siddhant: Where the hell are they?

He got out the main door to find Kaka when he heard a sweet melodious voice singing. He was confused, so he followed the voice. As he slowly walked to the source, he admitted to himself that the person singing had a beautiful voice, and a small smile crept on his lips. He also started to think about his past memories. This song, reminded him about something, something he never thought he knew.

Siddhant: I've...heard this before.

Flashback:

Siddhant was playing in his room with his basketball when his house maid came up to him.

Maid: Siddhant baba! Aaye, puja ka waqt ho gaya hai. Aaj aapke papa aur Singhania sahib ke naya company ke liye puja rakha hai. Madam aapko pukar rahi hai.

Siddhant: Are dhur!

Maid: Order Siddhant baba, aapko toh aana hi padega.

The maid quickly took his little hand and hurridly escorted him downstairs. He saw everyone standing in a little temple made inside their house and was worshipping Radha and Krishna. His mother sang while doing aarti.

Mann mohana aa aa... mann mohana aa aa...

Kanha suno na aa aa...

Tum bin paau kaise chain, tarsu tumhi ko din rain

Chhodake apani kaashi mathura

Chhodake apani kaashi mathura

Aake baso more nain

Tum bin paau kaise chain, kaanha aa... tarsu tumhi ko din rain

Siddhant walked up in front and stood beside his father. He yawned as the song was so slow.

Raas rachaiya brindawan ke gokul ke baasi

Raadha tumhri daasi, darshan ko hai pyaasi

Shyaam salone nand lala krishna banwaari, tumhri chhab hai nyaari

Main toh hu tan mann haari

Main toh hu tan mann haari

Mann mohana aa aa... mann mohana aa aa... mann mohana...

Kaanha suno na aa aa...

Tum bin paau kaise chain, tarsu tumhi ko din rain

Siddhant looked up at his father, who held his hands together and had a smile on his face. He analyzed his father and also held his hands together, and tried to feel the atmosphere by closing his eyes and listening to mother sing. He opened his eyes when he felt his tummy rolling, he was really hungry and now he's stuck here and he didn't know when it was going to finish. He looked here and there and saw a little girl, who held her hands together, and had a cute bright smile on her face while her eyes were closed. A small smile appeared on Siddhant's lips.

Siddhant was brought back to reality when he heard the beautiful voice again.

Mann mohana aa aa... mann mohana aa aa...

Kanha suno na aa aa...

He arrived at the source and found out that all the sick kids were in a small temple, and the aarti was led by Radhika. He wondered how she knew the song. He climbed up the stairs slowly while listening to her melodious tune, he kept walking when he stood right beside her. He kept gazing at her. She wore a white suit, with a blue embroideried work on it clutching on to her feminine figure, her navy blue dupatta resting on her neck, she was doing the aarti with her eyes closed and a smile on her lips. For the first time ever, Siddhant looked at her with warm eyes. For some reason, gazing at her brought a certain peace within him. He looked ahead and gazed at the idol of Krishna and Radha. When he went to Shimla, he did go all religion. He didn't believe in God before but his time in Shimla changed him. He went to temples regularly and it helped him, it helped him escape reality and just stand in front of God and just pray. He slowly held his hands together, closed his eyes, and listened to her melodious tune.

Main hu tumhaari, hai tumhaara yeh mere jivan

Tumko hi dekhu main, dekhu koyi darpan

Bansi ban jaaungi, in hoton ki ho jaaungi

Inn sapno se jalthal, hai mera mann agan

Hain mera mann hmm hmm...

They all bowed their heads and Siddhant in all sincerity, prayed to God. He completely forgot about the people around him, all he knew that he stood in front of God, and he needed to pray, because only He could help him in the coming days of his life. Radhika raised her head and turned when she saw Siddhant right beside her, praying. She was shocked at first, but seeing his so calm and peaceful for the first time brought a little smile on her face. Siddhant raised his head and Radhika swiftly looked away, this did not go unnoticed my Maasi. She was getting the feeling that Radhika has special feelings for him. Radhika's doing a pretty bad job hiding her feelings from everyone. Some of the kids wer coughing, some were feeling too drowsy, but when Radhika came to them, they all cheered up. One by one, each kid took their blessings. Radhika went to Maasi and she took her blessings, after which Radhika knelt down and took Maasi's blessings.

Maasi: Jeete raho.

She smiled at Maasi while Maasi patted her head. Maasi then started escorting the children home, while Siddhant waited for Radhika to offer him blessings. She slowly turned around and looked at him while Siddhant waited with still that warm look in his eyes. Her heart pounded hard against her chest, the way he was looking at her, made her tremble. She slowly walked towards Siddhant and offered him the plate so that he could take the blessings. He fixed his gaze on her while he swiped his hands on the diya and took the blessings. He then stood there. Radhika wondered why he wasn't taking the prashad.

Siddhant: Aren't you supposed to give me the prashad?

Radhika: ah.

She mentally smacked herself and then handed him the prashad. He ate the prashad while still looking at her, she had to look somewhere else.

Siddhant: You might not be that bad after all.

Radhika looked straight at him, amazed by what he said and was instantly smitten by the tiniest smirk he had on his lips.

Siddhant: Come...we've got work to do.

Siddhant then walked away leaving Radhika completely speechless. God was indeed on her side, she turned around and held her hands and thanked God from the bottom of her heart. Siddhant looked back and saw her praying again, the smirk came back again and he left her alone while she prayed to God that she succeeds in her mission.