Chance pe Dance pe Romance (SS/FF Ishkara)

As advised by one of the readers, I am reposting some of my short stories separately. The original post was done on August 5th and in the meantime the outcome was different then mentioned below. Still, you might enjoy my version. Have fun 😊

Index

1. Master Class
2. Tea Time
3. The Participant
4. Ek Albela Chela (An Unique Beautiful Student
5. The Student Surpassing The Teacher
6. Confessions of a Con Artist
7. Angry Young Artists
8. A Ride Through Memory Lane

Master Class

How can someone be so blind?!? For someone so insightful and understanding as he is, he is just NOT able to see what I see.. To know what I know about woman. What we know..'

She paused briefly as she stared in front of her. In her mind she replayed what she had discovered about Riddhima. You know Mona, It takes one to know one. Only a crook can recognize another crook in disguise. Her true colours MUST be revealed. Fast! Think think.. think Ishana!' But Di, what do you suggest? If Jiju finds out the truth... I mean.. About your sautan.. About you.. He will be heartbroken. Devastated. Crushed into millions billions of pieces... He will go straight into depression!.' MONA! I will not let this happen to him.. Never! Just be quiet and relax. Some idea will come to me, let me think!...'

The 2 sisters sat in silence on the same spot where Omkara and Riddhima had their afternoon tea. Ishana shared with Mona what occurred that afternoon. How Om was discussing her, Bela, with his girlfriend. Di.. One thing is for sure.. Jiju is concerned about you. He has been thinking of you. Yaar Di! What an impact you have made! Magic.. I am telling you Di.. Magic!'

There was no point in denying. Ishana had also been thinking of Omkara a lot. Not as a target at all but.. She was just attracted to him from the very first moment they had met. The way he looked at me, as if he had seen my soul and connected instantly. This has never happened to me before.' Without realizing it she had actually spoken these words out loud. Mona had heard her but remained silent. She just smiled and looked at her big sister. How she loved her so much. Mona knew her sister had given up a lot for her and her dad. They were stuck in this world of circles. Conning people was not something they enjoyed doing but they had no other choice. A normal 9-5 job is just not an option. Not to get them out of trouble.

Ishana was still babbling on. My tall sweet handsome long haired Romeo... Oh no Ishana.. Focus! Focus and a good idea will come for sure' she thought.

IDEA!' Mona looked up at her hopefully. Quickly, we should eat and drink something.' Di, seriously.. We need a plan.' Mona Lisa darling, a car needs fuel to get somewhere right? Same way we need snacks. Samosa - fuel - plan. Get it? It is all Logic!' Mona smiled at her sister. Her Di knew her very well. She had skipped breakfast and was very hungry now. Mona understood very well that her Di was doing this for herself. Uncle, 2 massala chai, 4 samosa please.'

While the girls waited for their order to come, Ishana's attention was drawn to a group of street dancers. There was a car with loudspeaker near them but the girls were not able to understand anything. Ishana decided to check out what the noise was all about. On her way towards the crowd a flyer was handed out to her. She quickly scanned it.

... Sign up now and Showcase your talent.. Shiva Nataraja Talent Academy offers you the chance to perfect your talent and still enjoy a good education...'

In the honour of Raksha Bandhan, the brothers had given Priyanka the best gift she could wish for. She had always been interested in starting a fund for Dance and Art forms but an Academy, where her thoughts and ideas would be the soul, had outdone her wildest dreams! She had decided to start of with an interesting contest, as a PR stunt.Ishana was intrigued.. She continued:

Oberois' Talent Contest. One prize per category. Sign up now.

Prizes we have in store for you:

5 Workshops from the famous choreographers of Dance+

Concert tickets for Shreya Ghoshal

Meet and greet, behind the scenes with Star+ Actors and Actrices.'

Ishana was quite surprised by reading the next part:

10 Master Classes Sculpting and Pottery - O.S. Oberois!!

10 workshops of Cooking and Tasting - S.S. Oberois.

10 day boot camp with personal trainer - R.S. Oberois

10 sessions book and poetry club - P. K. Oberois'

Mona and Ishana looked at each other and both screamed IDEA'

It was money she required but being with Om was on her mind without a doubt. This was her chance to spend time with him. To get to know him and.. Most importantly, for him to get to know her.

Mona let's eat and have proper rest. Tomorrow my training starts. I will win my alone time with Om.'

Tea Time

"Hi Riddhima.. How are you?.. I know you are very busy. Listen.. We need to talk. Can you meet me tomorrow? We can meet for tea. But afterwards I have to go to the studio to give workshops."

The conversation did not last very long. Mostly, Riddhima was explaining her whereabouts on her social activist work. Something he had always admired. Nowadays, or actually after the Raksha Bandhan incident, he noticed that he was listening to her with half the attention. Weeks had past since then. Something he thought he would never do. Growing up he saw what effect his so called father had on his mom. He never really listened to her or gave her the feeling that she was understood. He sighed heavily.

What is happening to me? This is not me! I had promised I would never turn into Mr Tej Singh Oberoi or even a slight reflection of him.

It is too bad already that I see the resemblance in my features growing more mature now, but no way I will act the same way! Women are to be respected. Respect, love and honesty is what counts.'

It was true though. Omkara had his mother's eyes but his dad's cheeks, jawline and mouth. Could that me be a reason to hide his charming handsome looks behind that beard and long hair? Or was this really a fashion and artistic statement?

Omkara just sat there on his bed, listening to music to relax him. He felt confused and misunderstood. He was not able to sleep well for the past days. So much has happened at the same time, that he was not able to process all of it. His mind went wandering back to Raksha Bandhan day. To his beautiful baby sister. A smile appeared on his face. Rudre and Prinku, the two babies. So pure and innocent. Ah.. Well.. Rudre and innocent? He smiled again. How Prinku loved their gift. It was more than just a gift to her. It would bring chances for people who are really struggling financially and can't afford to pay for a creative education. It was important to him that one gets the chance to explore his or her own creativity.

Prinku will do an excellent job on this, I am sure of it. And obviously we will help as well. She has always been the quiet one. Finding her happiness in the small things. She always looked up to us. This will be good for her. An adventure and responsibility of her own. It is time now she steps out of our shadow. In many ways I feel she is the only mature one out of us four. Or definitely compared to Rudre.

Rudre.. How does he manage all these girls? I have a difficult time understanding just one. Ridhima..'

I don't why, but ever since her accusation of me cheating on her, ME?! of all people.. Something just snapped in me. Or perhaps it is because of all the changes she is making that I feel trapped, as if I am suffocating. Adjustments.. Improvements as she likes to call it. Whatever! I mean.. Pink cushions? I like basic, soft and earthy colors. Simply black and white will be perfectly fine for me. Doesn't she know this about me by now?

Have I ever tried to change her in the past 3 years? OK.. In all honesty, 3 years seems quite some time, but the truth is, we hardly ever really spent time together. What do we know about each other? What do I know about her? Why don't I join her protests? She did ask in the beginning but.. I am just not a fan of the media. And usually the cases she fights for, the media will be on it too. That's just not me, not my style.'

"Yo.. O.. Bro.." It took some effort for Rudre to get through to Om. He shook him by the shoulders till Om looked up into his eyes. "Hey Rudre, didn't hear you come in." Rudre briefly looked at Om as if he was studying his face. Om could see that investigating look, which got him curious and confused at the same time. He braced himself expecting some Rudre drama.

"Uhm.. Well.. O.. I have been here for some minutes and I was talking to you too. Removed your earphones.. But you did not pay attention to me at all. What is this O? Why don't you ever listen to me? This is my faith as the youngest OBros. You would never do this to Shivaay. You know I was getting worried. You were just staring.. Total Zombie Look.. Not moving at all.." Rudre paused and put on the-home-alone look "O.. Can you hear me O? OOOMKAAARAAA.. CAN YOUUU HERE MEEE?"

Om smacked Rudre gently on the head. "Yes Rudre, I can hear you. Loud and clear. No need to yell. What is the matter? Did you come to hang out or for a specific reason?"

Rudre felt so relieved by hearing this. "Thank God.. I was really worried. Anyway, I came here to ask you to join us at the indoor pool. I am joining Bhaiya later, after his shower." Rudre gave his Special Agent meets Sherlock Holmes look and continued "I think he is stressed again.. His eyes were popping almost out of his face, loud irritated voice, stammering.. And.. He actually mentioned that this middle class girl is giving him stress."

Om smiled. "Ahaaa.. " Rudre smiled too and interrupted. "Annika Didi.. Bhaiya is getting so affected by her. He doesn't even realize it. And that is your job O. Talk to Bhaiya. At least he listens to you."

Om just sat there quietly looking at Rudre, entertained and in full agreement. For an immature playboy, Rudre did see this correctly.

I can't wait for both guys to grow up emotionally. Rudre and I both are fond of Annika. Ever since Dadi hired her, we have enjoyed spending time with her. Yes, she is a bit crazy like Rudre, true, but it feels as if she has always belonged here with our family. If only Shivaay could stop living in his mad world of business, money and denial.'

"Yes Rudre. I will be there in some time. Will freshen up as well. We can have some snacks and tea perhaps."

Rudre left. Further down the hallway Om heard loud speaking voices. Ahaaa.. Soumya.. These kids again! Always arguing.. They argue like a married couple. Just like Shivaay and Annika..' He smiled while entering his bathroom. "Only time will tell Omkara. Love cannot be rushed or forced upon. It has its own pace, own conditions. What works for Ridhima and me does not have to work for others." It did not take very long for his mind to wander back to the past events. Break up, make up, removing my plants, pink cushions and that red jacket! Oh God.. And the worst thing of all is her not giving me any breathing space. Checking up on me on my phone and through others. It's just too much. It's like she is getting obsessed with me. This is not good for my creativity. I just have to talk to her. Be honest and nip this in the bud. I need my space!'

Except from the feeling of being smothered there was something else bothering Om. He thought of the confrontation with Ishana. The falling out. He looked in the mirror and stared for some time as he relived that moment. How could I have misjudged her? Usually I am quite a good judge of character. I was a fool! Believing her. Trusting her. Feeling so at peace glancing into her beautiful eyes. I felt intimacy and honesty when I sat beside her that first day. I felt her vulnerability. Her pain. And how she understood what I had to say. But then the cold truth struck me merciless. She lied to me. Deceived me by creating a whole new identity. Who the hell does that? And why?' While fixing his hair he thought of how furious he had become when she compared him to his father! If Shivaay had not been there to hold him back then.. He looked down in shame.

I could have really hurt her physically. Strangled her. Oh God.. I feel so ashamed. I had promised to always respect women and never to hurt them. I don't know what bothers me the most. Am I angry and disappointed with her for deceiving me or with myself for allowing that and losing my cool and.. Acting like Tej Singh Oberoi?! She has said some things I would like answers on. She spoke of my brothers, my father and Riddhima. Weak of her to defend herself by pointing out flaws of others. But I feel I need to apologize to her for my aggressive behavior. I need to talk to her.'

The boys were not ready yet. Omkara went to the kitchen to make tea. As he opened the cupboard he saw the khullad set (clay or earthen pot) which he bought when he was with Ishana. She explained with enthusiasm that this was the actual proper way to drink tea. Earthy, rich and creamy taste. And it is organic, which was one extra plus to buy this set. He smiled as he poured the cups with tea and went back to spend time with his two favorite persons.

Suddenly, he did not feel tired anymore. As if he realized what he had to do. As he entered the indoor pool room he could hear his brothers chatter. Shivaay was again explaining on how Annika is the sole cause of his daily misery. Om spoke calmly "Calm down Shivaay. Tomorrow will be a new day. New chances.. To talk about Annika" Om and Rudre smiled and talked to each other with eyes only. Before Shivaay could respond, Om said "First things first. Let's have some nice earthy, rich and creamy warm tea."

"I enjoy coffee more but I love you killer chai"

"Bhaiya, khullad not killer. Khullad. Remember O explained that day to us." Shivaay was sitting in the middle and perfectly landed his hand playfully on his head as if he would smack him. Khullad, a typical word Annika would use. Let it be. Focus on Omkara.'

"Om, so are you ready? Tomorrow you kick of with the workshops on sculpting and pottery. Prinku was telling the contestants were so good and she couldn't choose so she offered it to other candidates as well. She is such a sweetheart." The OBros smiled at that thought.

"Yes Shivaay. I am assigned to two persons but I managed to schedule them in separately. This way I can give my full attention per person and to give that exclusive feel to it. I am very excited about it."

"Yes good plan Om. I have heard I am also assigned to two persons. To save time I wanted to combine it but that is a good idea. I mean it is not just a workshop. After all it is a master class given by the one and only Shivaay Singh Oberoi. Exclusiveness is an excellent touch. I will call my secretary to arrange separate sessions right away."

Rudre had been listening and thinking. Prinku mentioned to him as well that he would also be assigned to two participants. "Bhaiya, O, problem yaar. I mean I have also two people who are coming for boot camp. But Prinku didn't mention whether these are nice young beautiful ladies or just some guys." Both brothers jumped on Rudre to hit and cuddle him at the same time. After a weeks they finally had the time again to enjoy each other's company again.

Omkara went to bed. He felt tired but could not fall asleep right away. His last thoughts that night were of earthy tea cups, his brothers and a set of mesmerising eyes which led him to sleep. Tomorrow will be a new day. New chances..

The Participant

The day started early in the Oberoi Mansion. Dadi went to pray in their in-house temple. Tej and Shakti were on their way to office. Soumya and Prinku were on their way to the kitchen for breakfast. Halfway they bumped into Rudre. Soumya and Rudre exchanged some angry irritated looks at each other. "Hi Rudi Bhaiya, good morning. Did you enjoy your workout?" "Good morning Prinku. Yes, today I did 200 push-ups. Look at my biceps. And my triceps. Kapow Papow." Rudre liked making his own special effect sounds as he demonstrated his well muscled arms. He made sure to make eye contact with Soumya and wink at her. "Show Off Singh Oberoi! Did you know that you are just stupid? Studies show that people who are physically very active or overactive are not intelligent at all. They are not able to activate and use their brains. Leaving them with too much energy which result in all this exercise. But look at me. I am intelligent. I know how to use my brain." Rudre just stood there as the girls almost reached the kitchen. Slightly confused he joined them. "Hey Sumo, why don't you stop using your brain and mouth so much? No brain usage means exercise and be fit like me. And no mouth usage means no eating and no yelling at me anymore. Ahh.. Win-win situation right? Logic!" "Protein Shake Oberoi" "Choti Moti Sumo"

Shivaay was in the process of making omelets for everyone. He heard Rudra's remarks and felt bad for Soumya. Sometimes I feel his from another planet. Does he not know you can't make fun of a girl's weight?' "Rudre, Soumya! Cut it out. It is way too early for this nonsense. I have made breakfast, have some. "Bhaiya, where is O? Prinku, today Om Bhaiya is starting with the workshops. I will plan also soon, I have to check my schedule. Prinku, I hope you selected only beautiful ladies for my boot camp." Rudre smiled and winked at Prinku. Priyanka sweetly smiled back at him and replied "Yes Bhaiya, there are some ladies selected and all of them are very cute. Just prepare well ok?" She had a naughty look on her face which the brothers could not place. To cover up she asked "Shivaay Bhaiya, where is Om Bhaiya?" "Om left early for meditation and he wanted to prepare for the workshop. Get all the right materials. OK guys, I have to run. You guys hurry and don't be late for school ok?"

Omkara left early in the morning. When he woke up he felt the strong need to meditate and see the sun rise. It was a beautiful sight. Priceless. He continued his yoga exercises. Deeply and repetitive breathing in.. And out.. It helped him to stay calm and focussed. To clear his mind. He had dreamt of her. Not Ridhima but Ishana. In his dream Ishana had come to visit him in his room. Crying and pleading for help. As if she was in trouble. She was explaining that she was compelled to do this. To live this life. She was always on the run but at least not like him, bound to be a prisoner in his own bedroom with pink cushions. These pink cushions are really an issue for me.' She ran away again, crying and yelling You think you know the truth but you don't know anything. You think I am a liar but the people closest to you are liars. Your brothers, your father and your girlfriend. They will end up hurting you the most. In his dream he tried to run after her, but he met Shivaay, Rudre and Dadi in the hallway.

"Om, Let her go! She is bloody liar and a con artist. She will leave you penniless. These middle class desperate girls! Why would you trust her? "

"O, How can you be so heartless. She is such a beautiful girl. Since when do you make beautiful cute girls cry? Yes she was wrong but maybe she is sorry. Kiss and make-up. Especially the kissing part I can recommend O!"

"Om puttar.. The truth has three sides. Yours, hers and the actual truth. Before you judge anyone make sure you know all the facts."

In the end of his dream all of their voices kept on repeating, louder and louder. Till at some point he woke up and decided he needed fresh air. I know Dadi is right, like always. She saw a lot but never interfered. She trusted us to make the correct decisions. Even in my dreams she comes to my rescue.' He smiled. How he loved his grandmother so much. He reached for his phone. Shall I call her? Text her? Will her phone number still work? I can imagine she switched to another number. Con Artists did that to not get caught. Even if she would pick up the phone, what would I say to her? Why on earth am I getting insecure? I have always been a good talker right? I always speak from the heart. Emotions and Honesty, that is my thing, as Shivaay and Rudre point out to me often. I will talk to her at some point but for now, I have a busy day ahead. I don't want to start all this today. I will freshen up and set up the materials in the studio. I am very excited about that.'

"Hi Om, how are you? So sorry I am late. I got stuck with..." Ridhima was talking quickly explaining how she got stuck in this dowry-divorce case. How that was escalated into a big mess. The media was there too. The sad part was that Om was not listening to her. In the past he was quite charmed with the fact that she would be so involved with her work. But he had explained to her how little time he had. And he did not want to be late for the second workshop. So far he had enjoyed the day quite well. He started the lesson from scratch, which reminded him at his early starting days. He also made some pictures, which he wanted to use for a nice collage at the end of the master classes. He had his heart set on making this is a nice experience for the participants.

"Om.. Can you believe these people?" Om realized he had not heard anything of what she explained except for the words dowry, divorce, escalations and big mess. "It is good that you are there to help them. I know it is strange coming from me, being rich and all, but I am against dowry demands."

Om had only 5 minutes before he had to go back. Perhaps this was not the best time to start about what was bothering him. "Listen Ridhima, unfortunately I can't stay. I told you right? I have an appointment. So, shall we reschedule?"

Omkara returned to his studio to set up everything. All materials were in place, cameras for pictures were ready. Tea was ready, which he thought could help melt the ice before getting started. He heard a soft, slightly insecure knock at door. He smiled seems to be a shy person. As Om walked halfway, the door opened slowly.

Ek Albela Chela (An Unique Beautiful Student)

She sat there quietly. Completely still. She had been crying for a while, leaving her tired and devastated. How dare he? He had no right at all to speak in that manner about her family. Coming from him it felt as if she was gutted open, twice. The way he yelled at her, looked at her. For a moment she thought he might grab her by the throat. I know.. I was wrong to play tricks on him, his girlfriend and with his family. It was the money I was after and which we so desperately needed to release ourselves from these crooks. I just did not take into consideration to grow a major and serious liking towards Omkara and to get caught. I was ready to apologize, but he has no right to stand there and to judge us!'

This morning Ishana was still in a good mood. She went to the Dance Academy to showcase her talent. Dancing was her true passion. She loved to write as well, but when she had the chance to dance she could completely lose herself in the music. A perfect way to express herself and get rid of her frustrations. In a week she prepared a dance act for the audition. Mona and Ishana only had one thing in mind: master classes from Omkara Ji(Ju).

"Mona, in a way I feel bad but also happy. On Raksha Bandhan I created problems for Ridhima. Right before I left I heard Omkara break off their relationship. I feel bad this happened because of me. But.. I mean she is fraud anyway. She is pretending to be someone she is not only to win him. Her so called social work. She does not give a damn about that. She sits there all day and gets up when the media arrives, which she has called herself. In the long run she would end up hurting him, trust me." "But Di, isn't that what you are doing as well? You also are pretending to be someone else. One day you are selling a stolen car to Jiju and your handsome Devar Ji, next you are Bela and then also Mala, then a Japanese waitress. Very confusing. But I have to say, you are a good actress."

"Mona.. That is different.. You know I don't want to this. Everyone has a choice. But in some sick way we don't. Where are we supposed to earn that kind of money without selling our bodies or dancing in clubs? So yes, then I choose petty theft or con artistry. At least I don't steal from the poor." Ishana got ready to enter the audition room. "Mona, let it be.. I know it's wrong. That's why I need to win this. This is the only way I know to spend one full hour with him alone. A perfect chance to get to know each other."

"Good luck Di. Break a leg!"

Ishana came back all sweaty to the hallway where Mona waited for her. "How did it go Di?" Ishana was smiling. "What do you think? Of course it went well! Nobody can compare next to my dance moves. Oh and do you know, my Nanad (sister in law) is so pretty and soft spoken. Nothing like us. Mona that will be our first responsibility after the wedding." "Whose wedding?" "Mona..! Pay attention ok? Your Di and Jiju's wedding. Once we are in, we have to teach this girl to speak up. She has courage, but she has to get rid of that stammering. I know she can speak well without stammering. I had heard her speak when I sneaked into their Mansion. Mona, do you know how many con artists there are to take advantage of girls like her? And the fact that she is filthy rich is of course a bonus." "Ohhohh Di, another role you play very well: concerned and caring Bhabhi. Right now it is Jiju who should be careful." Both girls smiled, but Ishana knew she was not putting up an act. It was actually an instinctive feeling which had came over her. They left the Academy and stopped a riksha. Someone had to be home to keep an eye out for their father and debt collectors. She loved her dad but hated the situation he got them all in. She looked at Mona. "Don't you have any homework? The fact that you actually don't go to school right now, doesn't mean you are on holiday. I have to work again tonight, double shift. Please, promise me you do your homework." "Di.. This is not fair. I feel I should help out too. You have taken all the burden on you. I can get a job after school hours too." "Monaaa... Promise me. Education is important. You know that. The only way to a somewhat proper future. And you are smart. This is not what I want for you. But after the threats to kidnap you and attack on papa, I thought not going to school would be safer for you. And papa.. He is trying but he can't think straight. He loves us but.. He is an addict. Drinking and gambling is what got us in this mess to begin with. It will get us out too."

Mona looked at her sister. She is so sweet and caring. Family had always been her first priority. Even if it meant giving up something she cared about. Sometimes she seemed older than her age, but always beautiful. Ishana didi had always enjoyed dancing. Ever since she decided to participate in these audition rounds, she was so enthusiastic, so happy. I think she is at her best when she is losing herself in her dance. As if she is truly happy, entering a complete different world. Alone and far away from all this mess we are in. She says it is Jiju time that she wants, but I am sure dancing is what she needs. Dancing and one-on-one time with Jiju. She likes him. I know. I can tell by the way she handles this case. By now she would have already taken what she needed (not a penny more) and run. But this was different. I just hope she doesn't get her heart broken.'

What an interesting girl. The moment she entered I felt a familiarity. As if I knew her or had seen her before.' Prinku had a long day of taking auditions with some of the experts her family had selected. Good thing they assisted her as this was the first time she started on such a big project. Prinku had insisted on short introduction sessions before the actual audition. Still, she was not tired at all. In fact, she was full of energy. She sat in the back of the car, while her driver drove her home safely. She is slightly older than the average participant, but I am intrigued by her dance style. Her performance. For those few moments I felt as if she had guided me into a complete different world. A world which was beautiful and knew no sorrow. I could not take my eyes of her. Beautiful dance act. Just breathe taking. And then the way she had talked during the introduction. Effortlessly, charming and with humor. Yes.. I admire people who speak up well. Especially ladies.' She smiled. She thought of Anika and Soumya. For sure these girls knew how to speak well. Loud and clear. Lately, she had enjoyed Anika's company a lot. I am so happy Dadi understood me and offered to help her out. Shivaay bhaiya was just unreasonable. He knew that too, I am sure. But once he has committed then there is no turning back. Anyway, now she had a legit reason to see her friend almost daily. She had to work, true but, at least they could chitchat a bit. I love my brothers, but I also love my time with the girls. It sort of feels as if I have sisters too now.' As she reached the mansion an idea struck her.

I could contact her to help me with a dance routine for the wedding. Maybe Rudre and Om bhaiya can participate. My brothers will not refuse me, I am sure.'

She was still seated at the same spot. Just staring into the falling darkness. It was high time to head home. Check on Mona and her dad. Get ready for her work. Eat something. She had not eaten anything since breakfast. After the tea date with Omkara everything turned sour so quickly. She got up and started her trip back home.

I know.. He had all right to be angry with me. To insult me. But if you touch my family, then you are out of line. Whether your name is Oberoi or not! Mr Righteous. He only speaks of ethics and truth but has no clue what the reality is. Yes, he stood up against his father and made a career of his own. But has he ever struggled like most artists do? Has he ever gone a day hungry, without it being his choice? To create art and go out there to actually sell it? How easy it is to say you distance yourself from your father, the family name, money and all benefits. But he lived in that house. He had a nice warm soft bed, daily meals, his loving family around him. Does he even know what it is like to... why am I even spending time on this? Enough now Ishana! Get a grip of your emotions. You are almost home.' Once she got home, she left rather quickly to avoid Mona's questions and to make sure she would not be late for work. She changed her clothes quickly. Focus Ishana. Show Time.'

"You??! Fhat the Wuck! What are you doing here?" "Ohhoh Omkara Ji, you sure know how to make a girl feel welcome and comfortable. Will you not at least offer me some tea? Manners Mr Oberoi." She spoke in a calm but over the top friendly manner. Omkara felt a flash of anger pulling up to his head. Mr. Oberoi. How dare she? This is how he refers to his father. Does she know this? What is she trying to do? What is she doing here?'

She had been really nervous for this confrontation. Ever since Priyanka Oberoi had personally called her to give her the good news. It was a bittersweet feeling actually. Finally, she won something she really wanted. But now.. How would she face him? It would be extremely awkward. Life threatening perhaps too. What if he would strangle her? She swallowed her feelings of anxiety. She would face him. Ishana is no coward.

"You did not answer the question Ishana. What are you doing here? You have some nerve showing up here! Did you not make a fool out of yourself already? Or out of me? As if you care about my feelings or well being! Now get out before I drag you out personally. I have a business appointment." Om could not stop the restless rage he was feeling inside of him. He could not speak calmly anymore. This woman had deceived him! This is what she deserved. How can she stand her, look at me in the eye and speak to me as if nothing happened?'

"Business appointment? But Omkara Ji, you are an artist not a businessman. What business appointment?"

"Last warning Ishana! Get out! Some people work for a living. Honestly earn their money. And for your information, I have a workshop to give. So get the hell out! NOW!!"

"RELAX! What? Do you think you are the only one who can scream and be all angry? Well guess again Mr. Omkara Singh Oberoi! You have not been properly introduced to the real me yet!"

She paused as she stepped closer to him, without losing eye contact. She raised her hand in front of her (which she rather quickly dropped), to introduce herself with her over the top sweet voice:

"Ishana, aap ki Bela.. Ohhoh I mean aap ki Chela. Surprised hoon Guru Ji? I am your business appointment! I won the workshop fair and square. Priyanka Madam has called me personally. It would be totally disrespectful towards her not to come right? What to do? Majboor hoon. Besides, if Ishana is entitled to a price she comes to collect it. Do you get that? So.. The way I see it you have a few choices. You see Omkara Ji, I remember your lecture on choices very well. I paid attention and made notes. I figured, let me put into practice what I have learned from you Guru Ji... "

Omkara could not believe what was happening. This fraud managed again a way into his life. And now she has gotten hold of Prinku as well. His sister is so innocent and she fell right into Ishana's trap.

He stepped up to her, getting too close. What is happening to him. What feelings are these? Confusion mixed with rage. Anger. But something was there too. A feeling which he could recognize yet.

"Look, whatever you need to say, say it and be gone. I have no wish to look at your foul deceitful face much longer."

"... As I said, choices. Think well, think hard. But think quickly. Now what will you do Mr. Oberoi? Kya huwa? Majboor hoon?" Ishana laughed out loud. Checkmate! "Look, I will get the tea myself while you think. Luckily for you, I don't drink my tea too warm. That will give you some extra time."