Group FF
Kuch Baatein Ankahee Si...
Intro
This is a Michi FF. Milind and Prachi study in the same college but are worlds apart. Prachi is quiet, studious and reserved while Milind is loud, sporty and confident. Neev is Prachi's best friend and Ayesha not yet introduced.
Part One by bbb999 aka B
She opened her eyes to find the sun blinding her. It was morning already she thought, with the events of the previous day whizzing around in her head she was not able to fall asleep last night. Now awake the same thoughts invaded her mind again. She tried to push them out but she knew she had to confront what had happened. Milind had approached her for the first time ever. She never thought that he'd know her name but he did. Though she was Prachi Shah, the great businessman Inder Shah's daughter, she kept a low profile at college. She hated any attention as she was a quiet and timid girl who just wanted to study. Milind was so different he was loud, arrogant and the college heartthrob. All the girls wanted a piece of Milind, he was good-looking and muscular. But most were scared of Milind as they knew he had a bad temper. On good days he would be up to no good with his friends carrying out pranks on fellow students and even teachers. Prachi had always been slightly jealous of him, he was so confident in himself and she wished she had just a pinch of that confidence in her.
Prachi walked into the shower trying for the moment to shake away her thoughts; she knew she would have to deal with them later on that day but for now wanted to relax. She got out the shower and got changed into some light blue jeans and a white embellished kurta top. She dried her hair and left it loose as usual. The family had started breakfast without her, she noted as she made her way down the stairs. Picking up an apple from the table, she said bye to everyone. As she was about to leave her mother said "Prachi what's the rush...sit down and eat breakfast with us... that apple's not going to fill you up."
(Special thanks to Rima who helped come up with the title and also helped me with my writing. Thank You!!!)
Part 2 by Blind Horizan aka Muneeza
Prachi had skirted the college gardens twice he was nowhere in sight shaking her head, chiding herself for her foolishness. How could she even think that Milind would've been serious about this meeting, guys like Milind Mishra didn't fall for girls like Prachi Shah she reminded herself. She was everything he was not, men like him usually preferred women with a wild streak in them and she was anything but wild. Walking on the gravel path her eyes scoured the premises maybe just maybe he was late her heart had consoled her. Oh just shut up Prachi she scolded herself again why was she losing it all for him, she shouldn't and she wouldn't she promised herself heading towards the library. She looked up to see him standing on the top step with Pooja practically falling on him; Prachi had turned her face away in disgust. What was with girls these days but she couldn't avoid them they stood blocking the passageway escape was inevitable. Collecting her cool she walked boldly up to them "Er... excuse me I need to go to the library" she had found her voice. "No one's stopping you" Pooja had retorted still leaning on him, she felt him watch her with careful eyes assessing her every move. "Well you kind of are actually" she had replied curtly, "Hun I gotta go now" Milind had told Pooja moving her away from him. "Now" she had echoed disappointedly "But we had to go to the cafeteria". "Afternoon" he had replied casually smiling as Pooja pecked him on his cheek before leaving.
As she advanced forward she felt herself being pulled down the steps with subtle force, "I thought we had a meeting" he had said arching his eyebrows in mock perplexion. "Well you seemed busy enough handling one." Her sarcasm did not escape him and he grinned impishly. He took her to a secluded corner of the sprawling college lawn throwing his books on the dewy grass he sat down under the shade of a broad palm tree. "Sit" he had ordered but she stood hesitantly when he reached out his hand and pulled her down beside him, she landed with a thud glaring at him. "Why'd you call me here? What is it that you want?" she had asked gathering her dispersed books. "I want you to come with me to Robbie's party tonight" he had stated without any preliminaries. Her hands had stopped momentarily shocked at his audacity. "What makes you think I'll assent to this rubbish?" she had replied sharply "Oh you'll come" he had said lazily, folding his arms underneath his head he lay on the grass staring at the green foliage above. "I won't come Milind so don't wait for me, you know I don't attend parties." Saying so she had tried to get up when she felt his hands pull her arm losing her balance she fell flat on his chest her hair splayed over his face.
He took a deep breath of her freshly shampooed hair, smiling to her as her brown eyes met his deep black ones. 'Milind leave me' She fumed realizing he still held her tightly close to him 'I don't think so' his smile broadened as he pulled her close to him , his hot breath fanned her cheeks and she could feel colour rising in them. He seemed to have mesmerized her as she remained still, letting his fingers caress her cheeks gently tracing her lower jaw and finally outlining her soft full lips. She closed her eyes entranced her heart thudded wildly in its cage; she could feel his eyes rove on her face settling on her lips. "You'll come Prachi." He had whispered in her ear his lips grazing her skin and it tingled with his touch. "Say you'll come" he coaxed her and she heard herself say "Yes."
"Well then that's settled get ready by eight I'd prefer you wear something in black it'll go with my shirt." He had remarked arrogantly while Prachi stared at him in a daze still lying on his chest. It had all seemed so surreal and had she just committed to going with him to a stupid party her father would kill her if he got to know of this. Struggling out of his grasp she had come back to her senses "I won't come Milind." She sprang up to her feet "You just said yes Prachi" he complained sheepishly "No" "Oh you did I'll be there at 8 sharp." "Stop it Milind I can't come." She had tried persuading him but in vain. "Either you'll be with me in that party or I'll be in your bedroom tonight Prachi... the choice is yours I'd choose carefully if I were you" he had drawled squinting at her the sunlight dazzled his eyes as the fronds of the palm waved in the cool morning breeze.
How could he be so insensitive Prachi had thought looking at him sprawled on the plush green, now she had to go with him she had no choice. She knew he was fearless and the last thing she wanted was him in her bedroom if she got caught with him her parents would never trust her again. She could always lie about the party; she'd have to talk to Asmita to act as her alibi. Throwing him a vicious look she turned towards the white washed building she could at least attend class while she was here, the party would have to wait. Watching her walk away in the distance Milind had smiled haughtily no girl could resist his charms and Prachi Shah was just another girl to him. Preparing to doze off he heard the bell ring indicating the start of his class well that could wait now couldn't it he had thought with droopy eyes.
Part 3 by zcbcc34 aka Rima
Prachi stared at the garments strewn across her bed; she didnt think anything she owned would be appropriate for the kind of she was expected to attend tonight. It was not that she hadn't ever been to any; she just avoided such crowds, she was different to them and she knew there was nothing wrong in that.
Her own best friend was part of that crowd, she understood them but unfortunately she wasn't offered the same. She wondered why Milind had even invited her, there was a part of her that knew she shouldn't go, that he was up to something but he had left her with no alternative. She would just have to bear it and if she remained quiet, perhaps she could blend into the background and no one would even know she was there.
She grimaced again, looking back at her clothes but suddenly she felt someone cover her eyes and she knew immediately it was Neev. "Neev! What are you doing here?" she asked, punching his shoulder. "Kya Prachi? I came to see you before going to this...Part..ty..." Neev trailed off, his eyes catching sight of the mess on her . "Neev..tum jao na..you must be getting late na." Prachi said quickly, turning him around and marching him to the door, she didn't want to explain to him where she was going and why. Neev was stronger than her and he stopped in his tracks causing Prachi to crash into his back.
Neev refused to budge until Prachi told him what she was doing and eventually she gave in. She couldn't hide anything from Neev and he was the only person that knew how she felt about Milind.
"Neev I didn't know what to say" Prachi admitted and looked towards Neev for assurance that she had done the right thing. "Prachi I'm going to the same party don't worry maybe this is going to be what you've been waiting for" Neev said finally, coincidentally he was going too despite being from another and he couldn't be gladder. If Prachi ever needed him, he would be there. Now that Neev was going, she wouldn't need Asmita to help her out; Inder and Premlata could never refuse Neev anything.
Neev laughed at all the dresses Prachi thrust towards him and she was beginning to lose hope of ever finding something. Finally Neev stood up and from under the pile; he pulled out a simple knee length black . Prachi didn't even remember how that came to find a place in her wardrobe and shook her head vehemently. She was not going to wear that. It took a great deal on Neev's part to finally get her to change.
Prachi waited outside Shah Mansion with Neev for Milind and when he did arrive, Prachi was speechless. He looked impeccable casual jeans and a black but his blazer jacket had smartened up his whole look. He slowed his blue motorbike down to a halt in front of her and getting off, he leaned against it just staring at Prachi. He was shaken from his rivere when Neev extended a hand and after shaking it, Neev made his exit.
Conscious of his intense gaze, Prachi pulled down her dress and fiddled with the straps of her dress. Milind noted that she was uncomfortable but he loved to her squirm this way. There was definitely something interesting about Prachi Shah and the more he looked towards her, the more beautiful she was becoming to him. Why hadn't he really noticed that before? This was surely going to be harder than he thought.
Slowly, taking off his jacket, he walked towards her. Involuntarily, she took a step backwards and Milind laughed, "Don't worry I'm not going to you" he assured her and gently draped the jacket over her shoulders. She looked up at him with a mixture of gratitude and awe but shyly averted her eyes when he refused to look away.
"Chale" he motioned towards his and Prachi perched herself on the edge. "If you sit that far you're going to fall off" Milind sighed; perhaps this was going to be harder than he thought. Prachi inched closer and attempted to control her beating heart. He was intoxicating her senses and at this moment, she couldn't really think straight.
Prachi awkwardly placed her hands on his shoulders but as he lurched forwards on the bike, her hands gripped his shirt, crumpling it beneath her hands. As they weaved through the night time , the wind breezed through Prachi's hair and she closed her eyes, feeling suddenly overcome by drowsiness. Her head gently rolled and crashed against Milind's back. He smiled as she snuggled closer and her hot breath tickled his ears. "Milind" she said sleepily and his brow furrowed, wondering at the affection in her voice.
Prachi could have wished the ride to go on forever, just the two of them but soon they arrived outside a large , bursting at the seams. People were spilling out of it in every direction and as she stepped off of the bike and Milind offered her his arm, Prachi's heart sank. She didn't know whether she could do this.
Part 4 by fahimataq
Prachi looked down at his extended hand and then looked up at Milind. There was something in his eyes that made her take his hand in hers. And somehow she felt that it was not going to be so bad. But she was wrong.
When Milind and Prachi stepped in together, they seemed to catch the whole crowd's attention towards them. This made Prachi even more uncomfortable and Milind could sense that as she looked down in embarrassment.
"Prachi" He said. But still she would not look up. He turned to face her now and brought his hands up to lift her face. "No one is looking now" He smiled. What made him say that? Milind thought to himself. Had he forgotten the reason he had brought her to this ? Brushing away his awkward thoughts away from Prachi, he took her near the bar to get some drinks.
In the meantime, Prachi observed the party. It was Robbie's Party and he had made sure that it looked as lavish as possible. "Rich, spoilt brats" Prachi thought.
"Prachi, would you like something to drink?" Milind asked. He knew she was going to say no but he thought it best to ask. And as he had thought, she replied in negative. She looked away again, trying to find Neev. Just then, Pooja came over and looked at Prachi in disgust. Prachi didn't know if it was because of her or because she was standing with Milind. Pooja must have been wearing the most revealing dress in the party. It was a short, backless dress and most of all; it was red, catching every boy's attention in the party.
Pooja leaned into Milind and kissed him on the cheek. "Milind, I have been looking everywhere for you, come on, let's dance until Robbie decides to come" Pooja whispered into his ear. Prachi was looking at all this in frustration. She turned to walk away but just then Milind grabbed her hand. "I think I will wait for Robbie. Pooja, you go". But Pooja did not let go. She dragged him onto the dance floor. Milind tried to look at Prachi but she had turned to leave the party. "Oh I can't let her go" Milind thought.
"I gotta go Pooja." Saying this he rushed after Prachi and stopped her. "Prachi, please just wait for a while" "No Milind I am not even supposed to be here and who are you to stop me?" Prachi said in anger. Just then he grabbed her hand tightly and said "You cannot leave so easily Prachi."
"Hey Prachi, where were you?" Neev suddenly showed up. Milind still did not let go of her hand and Prachi silently told him to leave her.
"Neev I was looking for you, I should be asking you the same, anyways I am about to leave" Prachi said. "Oh Prachi but this is the first party you have ever come to, please don't leave" Neev made a puppy face and Prachi couldn't say no. Prachi left with Neev and now it was Milind's turn to be frustrated at her. "Oh well, at least she stayed" He thought. He went back in too.
"Gals and Guys, Thank you so much for coming to my party, sorry for making you guys wait" Robbie said through the mic and diverted the attention to himself. Then the was brought in and cut. Milind was standing next to Robbie and they hugged each other.
"Is she here?" Robbie asked Milind quietly. "Yeah don't worry man" Milind grinned. Robbie knew only Milind would have been able to bring her.
"Happy Birthday, Robbie" Neev congratulated Robbie. Robbie turned and said Thanks. "And who is this, Neev?" Robbie was asking Neev about Prachi and then Neev introduced Prachi to Robbie. "Won't you wish me, Prachi?" Robbie asked Prachi. "Sorry, Happy Birthday Robbie" Prachi had been in her thoughts for a long while now and she was getting bored but nevertheless she was happy that she was not with Milind. She didn't even want to meet Robbie but Neev had insisted.
"So Prachi, would you like to dance with me?" Robbie asked extending his hand. Prachi didn't want to dance and how could she anyway? First of all she didn't know a thing about dancing and she still had Milind's blazer on her. She replied quietly "I'm sorry, I can't" but then Neev gave her a look, and she finally gave in. She looked at Milind who had been staring at her all that time, and it hadn't gone unnoticed by her. She took the blazer off and handed it to him. Milind looked at her as if he didn't want it back. But she went on and held Robbie's hand.
Robbie put his arms around her waist and she on his shoulders. They swayed to together.
Although she was in Robbie's arms, she was constantly thinking about HIM. "You look today" Robbie distracted her away from her thoughts. "Thanks" was all she could utter right now.
Milind still stood there with his arms folded, and even though he wanted to look away, he could not stop looking at Prachi. She looked today, he thought. Why is he even thinking about HER? He cursed himself and then turned around and went for another drink. He needed to get her out his thoughts; she was Prachi...Prachi Shah. "Milind Why did you leave me like that for that Prachi" Pooja said in disgust behind him. "Pooja" he thought, and he knew just how to get away from Prachi's thoughts. He looked back at Prachi and was surprised to see her looking back. "Let's dance, Pooja" He said grabbing Pooja's hand, and she gladly followed him.
Robbie could not resist anymore and put Prachi's hands up to his neck and pulled her closer very tightly. "Robbie, what are you doing?" "Hey Prachi, chill, you are one of us now" and after saying this he started feeling her hips and bringing his head closer to hers. Prachi felt like crying and tried to push him away but his grip was tight. Everyone had noticed this and started laughing at her.
She looked at Milind for help, who had already started taking steps towards them but Pooja stopped him. "Milind, where are you going?!" And just then Neev gripped Robbie's collar and pushed him away from Prachi. "Prachi, Come on Lets go" Neev took her hand and was rushing out with her while she was couldn't stop the tears flowing. It pained Milind to see this and angered him at the same time. He pushed Pooja's hand away and walked towards Robbie and grabbed him by the collar "WHAT WAS THAT?" He shouted. "Milind, stop as if you didn't know this was going to happen" He pushed Milind's hands away. "I..I..thought you liked her". "Come on Milind, I wanted her to come so I could play with her, did you see her face? It was worth looking at!" Robbie grinned. "How could you do this? You..." Milind swore at him and before it got worse, he too walked away angrily. He wanted to beat the hell out of Robbie there and then and he knew Robbie would not stand a chance but all he could think about was Prachi's feelings.
Prachi had never been embarrassed in her life. Why did she go to that stupid party in the first place? Why did she meet him? Didn't she know that she would just get humiliated? She cried at her foolishness. Neev felt he was somehow a part of what had happened, as he was the one to persuade her to dance with Robbie. He let her cry on the way back and would talk to her when she felt like talking.
"Prachi" Milind closed his eyes as he took her name and when he closed them, he saw her in that black dress, looking at him nervously. How would he face her now?
(Thanks Rima for helping and for the lovely lovely comments love u)
Part 5 by Charmed aka Bhav
The car came to a halt outside Prachi's house; it looked as if everyone was in . Neev opened the car door for her and she got out, taking his proffered hand. He looked down at her. His heart ached to see her like this. He wished he hadn't pushed her.
Coming to a halt outside her Neev said,"Prachi, I'm sorry for what happened tonight. If you need to talk, let me know." And he hugged her goodnight. "Thanks Neev."
Once in her room, she quickly changed and crawled into bed. She didn't want to face anyone again. What would she tell her parents tomorrow morning? How could she face everyone at ? She never wanted to get out of bed again. With that thought she drifted off into a fitful, uneasy sleep.
Sunlight steamed into Milind's room. He sat up looking at the alarm clock and shaking his head, trying to wake up. He got up and headed for the . All the thoughts from yesterday came rushing back. He stood under the shower trying to relax but her face haunted him. He couldn't face going back into the party again so he got on his motorbike and rode away, anywhere but away from there. What had happened to him? This was Prachi Shah! She was nothing like him; he didn't even know her so why was he so concerned?
Prachi woke up with a start. She looked over to her alarm . She still had an hour before she had to get up and get ready to go to college. 15 minutes of lying in bed and she decided to get up. The embarrassment of yesterday was all that she could think about. Coming down the stairs, her family had already started breakfast without her. She said good morning to her parents, quickly grabbed a banana and headed out. She didn't want them to ask anything about last night.
"Prachi beta, have a proper ." Her mother said.
"Mum, I have to go, I have to meet Ashmita." With that she headed to college to meet her friend.
As Prachi entered college with Ashmita, she could feel all eyes on her. She shied away and kept her head down. She wished she could just become invisible. She had toyed with the idea of pretending to be sick to avoid coming in to college but then she'd be lying to her parents and her father would worry.
"Don't worry Prachi. They'll soon forget about you. Hey did you see Vishal? He looked really hot in his ..." Ashmita said, trying to comfort her and changing the topic. Prachi was grateful she had her. She and Neev were two of her favourite people.
"Prachi! Are you listening? That's the bell. I'll see you after class."
Prachi headed towards her own classroom. She headed towards her seat beside the . She could feel people looking at her and whispering. She had her head bent and concentrated on what the teacher was saying. 10 minutes into the class, Milind came swaggering in. "Hurry up please, Mr. Mishra." Barked the teacher. He looking round the class for an empty seat and found one conveniently free by Prachi.
"Hi" he whispered as he sat down. She turned her head towards him, anger in her eyes. She looked away and concentrated on what the teacher was saying. He kept looking towards and she was getting irritated. A small piece of paper landed on her . Casting an irritated look at Milind she unfolded it.
"Meet me outside near the benches after class."
Why'd he want to meet her? He'd already humiliated her. She decided not to meet him; she didn't want anything to do with him.
As soon as class finished she went to find Ashmita. She felt someone grab her hand and pull her towards a secluded corner of the corridor pushing her against the wall.
"We were supposed to have a meeting." Milind whispered, his face inches from hers. She looked into his intense dark eyes and she could feel his breath against her face. She closed her eyes.
"What do you want?" she breathed. His proximity to her was making her breath just a bit faster. His carelessly sprayed perfume overpowering her senses.
He let go of her and moved away suddenly. "I'm sorry for yesterday." He walked off leaving a thoroughly confused Prachi behind. What was happening to him? He wanted to kiss her then.
Suddenly Prachi's phone rang. "Hey Prachi, its Neev. Can you meet me? I need to talk to you about something."
Part 6 by Heeba
Milind didn't know what overcame him. He was Milind Mishra, and for the first time in his life he had said sorry to someone, someone who was not even part of his life. Not only that, he was even about to kiss her earlier but he had stopped not knowing exactly why. He barely knew her yet he somehow felt an attraction towards her, some sort of connection that he simply didn't understand. All he knew was that she was different, in fact very different and he liked that about her. With that thought in mind, he walked to his bike and rode back home.
Prachi on the other hand simply felt confused. Did Milind Mishra just apologise to her? "Yes he did" she whispered to herself and suddenly it brought a smile on her lips. But then again, it doesn't make up for what he did. He deliberately took her to the party knowing Robbie's intentions. And now because of him, she was the talk of college. People were giving her weird looks and whispering behind her back.
Walking towards the park to meet Neev, she told herself that she would ignore him. Everything was fine in her life until he showed up. She would ignore him and within sometime, Milind wouldn't even remember he knew her. The guy was with so many girls that her presence wouldn't affect him at all. Prachi Shah wouldn't make any difference in Milind Mishra's life she told herself. However, little did she know that if there was someone in this entire world that could make a difference in Milind Mishra's life, it was none other than Prachi Shah herself.
Sitting on the bench, she looked at her hand watch. Where was Neev? On the phone, he said he would meet her in five minutes and now it had already been more than 15 minutes. She wondered what was so important that couldn't wait. She looked over her watch again; if he was not here in 5 minutes then she would leave.
Prachi was about to go back to the library, when she saw Neev running towards her. Catching up with his breath, he said "Prachi I saw her again" and Prachi looked at him all confused. "Who did you see again" she asked.
"Remember, few months back when I went to this wedding, I told you about a girl" he said and Prachi simply nodded. "Well I saw that girl again and she even looks more beautiful now."
"Where did you see her? Did you get to know anything else about her?" she asked. "Yes her name is Ayesha I think and she is new at your college...the rest it up to you to find out."
"What?"
"What what you have to find out more about her for me" he said smiling and continued "You will do it for me won't you Prachi?"
"Are you even sure about this Neev, you just like her because she is beautiful... you don't even know her."
"I don't but I will get to know her through you" he said and Prachi smiled back at him. He sure knew how to convince her.
The next day, as Prachi went to college, things seemed to cool down a little. She still heard people whispering behind her back but it didn't seem to bother her much. She was stronger than this; she couldn't let it affect her.
As she entered the classroom, she saw a few people turning around to look at her, but she simply avoided them and took a seat next to the window like always. After a while, she saw Milind entering and Pooja asking him to sit next to her, however he simply ignored her and just like yesterday, he took the empty seat next to Prachi. And Prachi simply turned her face from him.
During the entire lecture, Prachi wasn't able to concentrate as she felt his gaze on her. She didn't want to even turn and look at him. She knew she would simply get lost in them. As soon as she heard the bell ring, she rushed out of the classroom. Milind called out for her, she turned around to look at him and as she saw him coming towards her, she simply turned around and walked away.
Milind watched her leave. What did she think of herself thought Milind? He had said sorry to her, even if it was not entirely his fault and here she was trying to avoid him. Did she not know that Milind Mishra was unavoidable?
For the next couple of days, whenever, Prachi saw Milind, she would simply hide from him. She didn't want anything to do with him. On top of that, she was busy with Neev's assignment. She saw Ayesha in one of her class but didn't have time to talk to her.
Today as she entered the classroom, she saw Ayesha sitting near the wall. Prachi was about to take the seat next to her when someone else came and took it before her. She looked around for an empty space when she saw Milind extending his hand, indicating her to sit next to him. She looked around and when she saw that there were no more seats available, she took the seat beside him trying not to look at him.
As the teacher came in, she distributed some paper and made an announcement. "As you all know, for this class there is a term project to hand in and I want to guys to start it as soon as possible. It's going to be two by two and your partner in going to be the one seated right next to you."
Milind looked at his right and smiled. There was no way she could run away from this. She was stuck with him. Prachi looked up to Milind, who had a smirk on his face. She had ignored him all this time and here she was today, stuck with him for one of the biggest project ever. She wondered what else destiny had stored for her.
Part 7 by milindkidewani aka Goldy
Milind was ecstatic with the way things were going. How much ever he hated project reports, this project was the one he was gonna enjoy and remember forever, after all Prachi Shah was his partner.
Prachi looked at his mischievous smile and wondered if there was some way she could get out of this. She could talk to the teacher. Just then she heard the teacher say "You all have a month's time to turn in ur project reports and let me remind u all, this project has a 30% weightage and I hope I won't get any complaints regarding anything. Your partners as I said earlier will be the ones you are sitting with irrespective of the fact whether you like it or not" And just like that Prachi's hope of finding a way out was gone out the window.
As soon as the class got over Prachi tried to make for the door when Milind grasped her arm. She looked at him with a fury in her eyes. "Where are u going?? You are my partner" He said casually with a smile pasted on his lips. Prachi looked at him with shock. "Just for the project report" she corrected him. As her eyes went over her arm which Milind was still holding , she continued with a stern voice "I have another class and we can meet later in the library to discuss about the report" As her heart beat loudly, she could feel every thud clearly in her ears, she wondered if Milind could hear it too.
As Milind let go off her hand, he smiled to himself, Prachi Shah had herself invited him to meet her. Prachi on the other hand did not know what made her say that. All she wanted was to get away from him at that moment. Her arm, where he had held her felt all tingly and her breathing was still irregular as she walked down the corridor.
Prachi having finished her classes headed for the library. She was nervous and excited about this project report. She entered the library and found a seat near the window. She looked at her watch, it was almost 5pm. She looked around but couldn't see Milind anywhere. Boys like Milind are only interested in girls not studies, she thought. She would probably have to do this report all by herself. She could not afford to flunk it that would mean a big drop in her grades. She did not understand if she was mad at Milind for not showing up or glad that she will not have put up with his behaviour. Letting a small sigh escape her lips, she got up and went over to the aisle to search for some books.
She was totally engrossed in looking up some books relevant to the topic for some research when she bumped into somebody. She tripped and totally lost her balance and would have fallen flat on her face if those strong arms hadn't held her. She looked up to see Milind staring at her. Milind smelled the sweet fragrance coming from her body as he held her body close to his. His arms rested on her slender waist while Prachi's hands lay on his broad chest. Their faces just inches away from each other, Prachi could feel his warm breath on her. He looked at her gentle face and smiled "You do seem to lose your balance every time I am around" Prachi quickly straightened herself "I was just looking for some books. Why are you late? We do have a deadline" She said trying to get an upper hand. "U can at least say thank you for saving you plus you never gave me any time for this meeting. I have been here for the last one hour" Milind said as he pointed out to his seat. "I m sitting on that end, did u not see me?"
"Oh, ok. Let me get my things and we can go over these books" She said and turned to leave. She turned her head slightly and uttered a small thank you softly. She tried not to get attracted to him but how much ever effort she put into this, Milind Mishra was the one you couldn't avoid. Milind stood there looking at her retreating back. "She is the most beautiful girl, I have ever laid my eyes on" he said to himself.
Prachi and Milind sat together in the library for long time going over the project. They discussed about the topic to a great length. Prachi was a with brains and the fact did not escape Milind. She sat on his left side and every time he looked over to her, she would put an invisible strand of hair behind her ears. He loved the way she did it but what he did not know was that she did it because his eyes made her nervous. Milind was so glad Prachi was his partner. She did not trust him at all and probably had not forgiven him for the incident but she was still sitting just inches away from him. He was thankful to the teacher for that.
Prachi was surprised at Milind's knowledge on a lot of things. The ease with which he told her how they can make their report more presentable using PowerPoint and he knew his way around the library. She was surprised at first that he even knew the way to the library but him knowing about the books which would help them had left her speechless. Milind Mishra was definitely not what he seemed from the outside. Like they say "Never judge the from its cover" There was a different side to him and she was eager to know him now. This report wasn't such a bad idea after all, she thought.
They had been so engrossed with everything that they didn't even realize how late it was. Once they headed outside, Prachi was surprised to see that it was pitch dark now. She wondered how she would go home now as she would not get a ride home. She looked apprehensive and decided to look for a riskshaw or a taxi. Milind looked at her and offered him a ride home."I can drop you ho...' She refused before he could even finish his sentence. "No, I will manage" she said and started to walk away from him. Milind stood there for some time and then walked towards the parking lot. He started his bike and came behind Prachi, who was now walking on foot looking for some ride. "You will not find something at this hour. Don't be so stubborn and let me drop u home." Prachi just looked at him wondering what to do. She remembered the last time she sat on his bike. She wondered if she should take up on his offer while Milind waited patiently for her to make a decision. He wasn't gonna push her but he could not leave her all alone at this time of the night. It didn't matter if she trusted him or not, her staying back alone was more dangerous than anything.
Part 8 by fahimataq
Wow, Milind Mishra, since when have you started caring about Prachi Shah? This was not genuine concern he felt for anyone...it was something more. Prachi took long time deciding but finally she took up his offer, yet again. She sat on the bike and put her hands on his shoulders. However, Milind did not set off. "Milind...now what?" Prachi asked confused as to why they were still here. "Prachi, I don't want you flying off the bike when I set off, so please hold on tighter" Milind smiled to himself at the thought of that. He liked her touch, it was special and different. Without even her consent, he took her arms from his shoulders and put them around his waist. He could feel that she did not like it but she didn't stop him either.
Prachi had goose bumps all over her body. Why did he have this effect on her? But Prachi was not the only one. Milind wanted the ride to last forever. He felt so peaceful and complete with her. Even though he wasn't facing her, he knew she was unsure about this. She had only taken the lift because she didn't have any other choice. Otherwise, why would Prachi ever want a lift from a guy like him? He shook his thoughts away and enjoyed the ride with her.
It hadn't been five minutes since they set off and the weather had already started to get bad. Milind and Prachi felt the light shower of rain turn into heavy raindrops. The clouds had started to gather around with wind also starting to blow suddenly, as Prachi looked and then heard a bolt of lightning. Fearing the sound, she tightened her grip on Milind's chest. She felt his toned, muscular body against her as she moved closer to him. Had Prachi's brain been involved in this situation, she would never have made this move, but why did he make her feel safe? Even though the temperature had dropped during this weather change, Milind could feel Prachi's body temperature rise because she was blushing so much. She had never got close to any guy in her life like this.
He was satisfied for a while with the fact that she couldn't resist him but a part of him still felt he needed to give her a proper explanation about the party incident. He wanted to get to know her, be close to her somehow.
The wind was blowing Prachi's hair on Milind's face and she kept pulling it back. "Prachi leave it, I like it." Now Prachi blushed even more, why was he been so nice to her? She wanted to get home as soon as possible and now she had loosened her grip on him. Milind didn't stop her; he knew she was nothing but proper.
Prachi's house arrived and when the bike stopped it jerked, and she crashed right into Milind. She got off quickly to avoid any further embarrassment and said her thanks. "Anytime" he replied. Prachi turned to leave but stopped half-way. Today she was wearing a simple white salwar kameez with light embroidery. She realised that Milind had caught her dupatta. "How dare he?!" She turned quickly in anger to bump into his broad, masculine body. Prachi was trying to find answers and Milind just wanted to stop time, save her beautiful, angry face in his memory forever. "Milind! Let go of my dupatta!" She broke the awkward silence between them. "But..Prachi" "Milind stop playing around and please give it to me" "Prachi, I "" Milind raised his hand and Prachi went crimson red, finding out that it wasn't him who had caught her dupatta but, his watch! "Oh! I'm ...sorry" Milind started pulling her dupatta towards himself and this brought Prachi closer and closer to him. Every step she took made her knees feel weak. His intense gaze at her whole body was killing her. She closed her eyes when she was inches away from him. Feeling his hot breath on her face, she turned her face away. He slowly started unwinding her dupatta from his watch, all the time gazing at her. Her heart was beating so fast, she couldn't control it. "Prachi". She opened her eyes slowly and he looked into his dark eyes. "Relax!" He smiled at her; he knew she was feeling very uncomfortable with him but he didn't want to lose her company because of this. "Prachi next time if you want to get close, just ask me" he grinned at her. Prachi was furious! She turned to walk away when she felt his hand grab her and pull her to him. "I was only joking" "I don't care" "Prachi, look I just want to be friends if that's okay with you, I already said sorry for the other day" "Milind let go of me, someone will see, you probably don't even care and...you are talking about been friends! Milind, you think you little sorry will bring me back the respect I used to have, because of you I have been humiliated!" She had hidden her tears from him long enough and when she could no longer stop them, she ran quickly inside her house not once looking back.
Milind was just surprised and mildly upset...no girl had ever spoken to him like that before or refused his friendship...Prachi made him think. He knew he was wrong but what can he do? Doesn't she understand that I have a reputation and been friends with her would change that. He hated seeing her cry, even thought he had wanted nothing to do with her, now he wanted to do everything with her. There has to be a way to sort it out. He decided to call his old friend, who knew him inside out and would be the one to understand his problem.
The next day, neither Milind nor Prachi met, not even to discuss the project. Prachi was astonished because before, Milind would grab any chance he had to meet her in a secluded corner or empty corridor. But now he had been acting as if nothing happened, as if they weren't even partners.
"Prachiiiiiii! How's the assignment going?" Neev asked Prachi at break time, it seemed as though he went to the same college even though his was a mile away, he was always here. "Neev I haven't had the chance to meet with Milind yet so.." "Prachi not that assignment, and please stop thinking about Milind all the time!" "NEEV!" Prachi blushed at this. "Woh Ayesha wali assignment pagal...did you find anything out?" Neev whispered. "Oh Neev I completely forgot but I will try and catch up with her today I promise" Neev was glaring at her but when she held her ears with her finger, he let her off.
(Thanks Rima for editing and giving lovely comments, love u )
Part 9 by Blind Horizan aka Muneeza
She had been searching for Milind since morning but had been unable to track him down, Where could he be.... she questioned herself aimlessly walking down the granite corridor. He usually sat next to her in class but since the past week he had been avoiding her, he would sit in the far corner away from her in class and would saunter out as soon as the bell rang. He would turn around corners if he spotted her in the same place as him and break away from friends if she appeared amidst them. Initially it had been a relief to see him stop hounding her with his intense gazes but slowly she'd started missing him, why was something that was largely incomprehensible. She had thought getting him off her back would help her concentrate more on her education the project mostly but sadly it had rather turned out to be the other way round, she had missed him terribly so much so that she hadn't jotted one complete sentence since the day he had dropped her off at her door step. Why did she have to be so mean to him she had thought for the umpteenth time since the past week if only she'd just shut her mouth this wouldn't have happened. They probably could've become good friends, lost in her thoughts she hadn't realized that she had walked out of the college grounds on the busy road that ran upfront. A car had come to a screeching halt near her and before she could make out anything of the situation she had felt two strong arms pull her away from the place. She had felt the safety the arms provided her as her head rested on the broad chest, she felt dazed with the near collision and felt herself being led away to a shady spot near the pavement. They stood together for a couple of minutes before she realized she was in someone's arms breaking free she looked up. Shielding her eyes from the blinding sunlight she managed to make out a muscular form clad in a starched cotton shirt, it was Milind. "There are a lot of other options to suicide besides getting run over by cars" he had remarked but it was as mirthless as his eyes. "I'm sorry I wasn't watching where I was going" she had apologised but he had walked away wordlessly. "Milind" she had called after him but he had already mounted his bike and had ridden off with the wind, hot tears sprung in her eyes as she saw him fade away in the distance. She was going to have to talk to him soon that too.
That evening Milind flicked lazily through a sports magazine his father had gone out to attend a business dinner and his younger sister had an assignment to work on that evening. It seemed he was home all by himself he felt bored but he didn't want to go partying either, everything had altered after Robbie's party . That night something inside him had changed, for better or worse was not the point but he felt different and had started thinking differently too. Stretching himself on the couch he made himself comfortable fumbling for the remote control he flipped through the channels pointlessly. The door bell rang at that moment Sukriti's probably back he had thought brushing off cake crumbs off him, his sister was right he did make a lot of mess. Ambling to the door he opened it to see Sukriti furious "Where were you? Stuck in the Alps? " she questioned pushing past him "You were supposed to pick me from Anita's house at 7:00" she reminded him throwing her books on the glass table top in the lounge she sank in the couch glaring at him. "Oh.... I forgot" he had apologized carelessly gulping down cold water from the bottle. "Since when did you start forgetting things Bhaiyya?" she had asked suspiciously "Ever since that damned party you attended you've lost it." "Suki" he warned "Ok ok!!!" I won't say damn again, but bhaiyya you've changed.... don't you feel so yourself?" she was obviously concerned for him he realized. He had been oddly and the change could not go unnoticed by her. They were extremely close since all he had for family were her and his father." I'm fine Suki don't worry, you know when I have my lows I act strange it's just that!!! Nothing much" he shrugged his shoulders trying to breeze off the subject. "You sure bhaiyya?" she had questioned him again walking up to where he stood "Sure" he had smiled kissing her on the forehead. "Make some coffee and bring it up, you can beat me at chess then" he had winked at her before trudging up the stairs to his room.
It had been a humid day and he felt clammy pulling off his shirt he had decided to hit the shower, the cool water would do him good he had thought before entering his bathroom. Prachi had decided to pay Milind a visit that very evening, once at his doorstep she stood there for several minutes pondering on her actions. She wondered if she was over thinking or losing it, but there was no harm in a casual meeting besides she still hadn't thanked him for saving her from getting hit that afternoon. Getting her bearings together she had pressed the doorbell the door was opened by a girl probably her age. "Hi" she had smiled ushering her in "You must be here for bhaiyya" she had said knowingly "Yes but I'm here for our project, I mean we're working together on it" she had elucidated hurriedly. Sukriti had laughed aloud "Relax... I assumed you're here for him since you're not my friend and my father certainly couldn't be friends with you...' she had explained humorously. Prachi smiled in relief she liked his sister she seemed a nice kid. "Where is he?" she had asked hoping to get over with it soon "Upstairs" she had informed her "Oh and do take his coffee with you, he'll want it by now" she had handed her the cup with the steaming liquid frothed till the top. "Sure" she had said clutching the cup tightly as she ascended the stairs to his room. "Be cool, be cool" she kept repeating to herself as she knocked on the door with difficulty, not letting an answer she pushed at it and it had opened to an empty room. She looked around disappointed he wasn't in, but his sister said that he was here. She heard water running in the washroom he was probably in there, she could wait she had thought looking around. The place looked as if a tornado had passed through it; his books lay strewn on the bed, his clothes hung around in different positions. His shoes peeked from under the bed and his socks were displayed cheekily on his dressing counter. Prachi looked around in disgust she was a freak when it came to tidiness, placing his coffee on some empty space on the counter she got about her business. Stacking his books she piled them on the shelf, a laundry basket was stowed away in the corner pulling it out she threw all his dirty linen in it screwing up her nose at it. If only Pooja saw all this mess she'd run fifty miles away from him she had thought smiling. So engrossed was she in her work that she forgot where she was... Milind had stepped out of his shower wrapping a towel around his lower body he entered his room to see Prachi busy sifting his clothes. He looked on fascinated as she finished her task placing the basket in the corner she tautened the bed sheet, fluffed the pillows and then sat down on the bed smiling in satisfaction. He chuckled softly to himself leaning against the open door he stared at her with admiration. Clearing his throat he made her aware of his presence she had jumped up startled to see him gaze at her that too with just a towel around him. Beads of water trickled down his bare chest, his hair dripped wet, and he looked at her intently. Her cheeks had flushed "I...I... I 'she stammered her eyes lowering to her fingers as she twisted them nervously, "You" he said inching closer to her.'What are you doing here?" She had moved a step back as he moved closer she could smell the fragrance he emitted and it made her go insane.
"I had just come to say thank you" she managed eventually. "For what?" he had asked moving a step forward.'For saving me this afternoon." she had explained, he could see she was having a difficult time her eyes kept flitting from his eyes to his lips. He was now only inches away from her, she had reached the dressing table as her back hit the solid wood she was forced to look up to his hauntingly deep eyes. He had closed the distance between them "Was that all you came for?" he had inquired seriously and she had shaken her head in the negative. "No" she had admitted softly "I wanted to ask you why you were avoiding me" she had stated honestly her eyes reflecting the truth in her words."I'm sorry if I hurt you." she had apologized to him feeling weak in the knees. His presence somehow clouded all thoughts, empowering her emotions. "Missing me?" he had asked again bending closer, droplets of water fell on her cheeks she felt dizzy with desire she had to get away. He had brushed his index finger across her cheek and wiped the moisture away he felt her skin burn with sensation. Her breathing was erratic, her body trembled with titillation he smiled she was way too nervous around him. Prachi had felt as if she'd melt under his gaze in her attempt to move away her hand had knocked the coffee cup and it had spilled on her hand, the scalding liquid scorching her soft skin. She had gasped in pain as tears filmed her eyes. Clasping her hand in his Milind had quickly assessed the injury "Prachi if you knew it was hot why did you keep it here?" he had reprimanded her. "Now sit here I'll get something to put on it." "Milind I'm fine" she had tried to stop him. "I said sit" he ordered her pulling out a clean black shirt and track pants he changed in the adjacent dressing room in minutes before sprinting out of the room, moments later he was seated by her on the bed. Taking her hand in his he applied ointment on her skin blowing on it softly to ease the burning sensation, she bit her lip in agony squeezing her eyes shut and he had felt her pain as his own."Better?" he had asked as he replaced the contents in the first aid box..... "Much" she had whispered trying to act brave though the truth was that it hurt like hell. He saw the tears that flowed from her eyes trailing down her cheeks; it was evidently hurting her more than she said he felt devastated. "I'm sorry I shouldn't have come that close." Milind had apologised regretfully it was all his fault. "Its ok Milind you didn't know about the coffee." she had tried to console him."No Prachi somehow or the other I always end up hurting you, and all I want is you to be happy. The reason I've distanced myself from you." he had blurted the truth in anguish."Is that why you've been avoiding me this past week?" it was certainly shocking news to her he could see she was not very happy with his confession. "Yes" he had replied grimly "Milind I know you didn't want to hurt me or anything I just want us to be friends that's it" she had said placing her palm on his hand. "Can't we let bygones be bygones? Can't we start afresh Milind?" she had requested and he was touched by her ingenuity. "Prachi" he had murmured placing his heavy hand on hers "Friends!!" she had smiled "Friends!!" he had echoed bringing her hand to his lips he had kissed it tenderly, wiping her tears with his thumb pad he smiled at her. "And now your new friend here is gonna treat you to ice-cream, what say?" he had asked pulling her up "I say yes!!!" she had laughed feeling light hearted in a very long time.
Part 10 by shabzc1
"Hey Prachi"
Prachi turned around at the familiar voice and smiled saying "hi" in return. It had been two weeks since Prachi and Milind had cleared the air and everything seemed a whole lot better. Prachi and Milind had seen a lot of each other because of the project that they were working on and this had made Prachi see Milind in a whole new light. Milind was not the arrogant hooligan that he liked to make people think he was, he was actually pretty decent and very likeable. On the many occasions they had taken a break from their project, milind would always talk animatedly about his sister and it was evident that his sister meant the world to him. Remembering back to meeting Sukruti, Prachi could see why he was fond of Sukruti; she had a bubbly persona about her.
"So are we meeting up today after college?"
Prachi looked at him and nodded in the affirmative. "At the rate we are working on our project, there is no way we will get below a distinction"
Milind looked at her beam while saying that and he smiled too, her smile was infectious. They continued to walk through the corridor and Prachi could sense everyone's eyes on her and Milind. She had been a bit uneasy with the looks at first but she had now gotten over the feeling and decided that she really didn't care what they thought. Milind was her friend and she didn't need to hide her friendship with him from no one, and if people thought differently about their friendship then so be it.
Milind too could sense the looks, he wasn't bothered about them and he hoped Prachi wouldn't be too bothered either. He had heard a few irate ex's take a few digs at Prachi on a few occasions while they spoke to him and he always felt defensive about her. He had warned them off and hoped that Prachi hadn't born witness to any of their scathing remarks; he had hurt her once he didn't want to be the cause of her being hurt again. They parted at the end of the corridor and made their ways to their classes.
Oh no, she was late. "He's probably sitting by the window and revelling in that fact that I can ever be late" she laughed to herself and increased her pace but stopped abruptly when she felt someone grab her right arm. She turned in surprise, but then smiled when she saw Neev.
"Neev, bunking college again? Wait until I tell aunty." Prachi laughed and Neev looked at her warningly at first but then broke into a smile.
"If my mum found out I was here trying to get her a daughter in law she would freak."
"And why's that?" Prachi questioned.
"You know what mum is like, she probably has a rich industrialists daughter in mind" Neev wrinkled his nose in disgust and Prachi laughed and made fun of his face.
"Have you got anywhere with her than?"
"Her who?" She feigned ignorance
Neev looked at Prachi as if he was going to throttle her and Prachi quickly reassured him that she knew who he was talking about.
"I was joking Neev. That Ayesha of yours isn't very social; whenever I see her she is always by herself. I've tried to make conversation with her countless times but she doesn't seem to want to know." Cautiously she added "maybe Ayesha isn't the girl for you."
She saw the deflated look on Neev's face and changed tact. She linked her arm with his and dragged him towards the cafeteria "how about you treat me to a hot chocolate and we will go through a list of strategies to win Ayesha over."
Neev's face visibly lighted and in his cheery old self he said "mission Ayesha here we come."
Prachi laughed at Neev's childishness and they both shared a few more jokes on the way to the canteen.
While Prachi and Neev were discussing ways of making Ayesha notice Neev, Milind was sitting in the secluded corner of the library which both he and Prachi would always occupy. He was flicking through a text but nothing seemed to make any sense, all he would do was look at the clock and hope that she would enter the library any second. He got impatient and tried calling her on her mobile and was disappointed when it went to voicemail. He closed his eyes and after a few moments he felt a pair of hands cover his eyes. He smiled, turned around and started to crack a joke but stopped abruptly when he saw Sheetal instead of Prachi.
"Sheetal" he stammered
She obviously didn't notice that he didn't seem too pleased to see her and she moved forward and hugged him
"It's been a long time" she said "how could you forget me" she complained while pouting.
Milind eased her arms away from him and reluctantly asked how she was. After a couple minutes of small talk Milind felt it was the right time to get rid of her and told her that he was busy and needed to finish off some research before Prachi came.
"Prachi" Sheetal exclaimed
Milind explained that he was paired with Prachi for a project and that he really needed to be left alone to do some work.
Sheetal laughed "you are joking?" she questioned "I just saw Prachi with some cute guy in the canteen. I don't think she will be coming here to do some work" she failed to see the look of disappointment on Milind's face and continued "now you have no excuse, I'm off to Robbie's house and you are coming with me" she tried to drag Milind by the arm but he refused to budge.
With certainty he said "Prachi said she will come, so I will wait."
This time Sheetal could hear the bite in his voice and her face fell as she let go of his arm reluctantly. She laughed the moment off and said "suit yourself...i'll see you around" saying that she turned on her heel and left.
Milind sat down and tried to focus on the words in the book "she will come, she will come, she will come, he kept repeating in his mind. After 5 minutes he dwelled on Sheetal's words and made a face remembering the reference of Prachi with another guy. There was only one way he could feel at ease again and that was to see if Prachi was with another guy in the canteen. He got up and made his way to the canteen assuring himself that Sheetal was wrong and that Prachi must have her reasons for not coming to the library.
He entered the canteen and let out a huge sigh of relief when he saw the canteen empty. He knew his Prachi wouldn't do that to him. "Wait a minute, did I just say my Prachi" he thought. He shook his head and tried to pretend that he never thought that. He laughed at his silliness and the thought of Prachi waiting for him at the library suddenly struck him and he walked back to the library taking big strides. He walked past the court gardens and glanced at the main gates and stopped abruptly in his tracks. There was Prachi walking arm in arm with a guy out of the college building. She looked so happy and at ease, he took in the scene and out of nowhere he suddenly wondered what that guy had which he didn't. Unknowingly his hands clenched in a fist and a hint of red was visible on his face. He was upset, he couldn't believe that Prachi had stood him up for someone else, he didn't have a relationship with her and it wasn't as if he had any rights over her but the thought of Prachi being with someone else was killing him. He saw the two walk away from the building and berated himself for thinking that she could possibly care for him. He changed direction and walked to his bike to go home, there was no point being here if she wasn't here, thinking that he got on his bike and zoomed off.
Part 11 by Kim02
Prachi and Neev came home together to Prachi's house that day. Premlata was extremely happy to see Neev. Neev came and hugged PL. As Neev and PL got busy with their conversation, Prachi went up to her room to freshen up. She was in the bathroom washing her face; she suddenly remembered that she was supposed to meet Milind today at the library. Milind would be really upset with her she thought! I hope he didn't wait for me there. She quickly came out of the bathroom and decided to call Milind. She dialled Milind's mobile number and it kept ringing but no answer. On the other hand Milind had come home straight from college and went to his room. Sukruti was home and wondered why Milind looked all gloomy as usually he is happy go lucky type of guy. Milind was in his room, lying down on his bed, thinking about what had happened at the college today earlier. He couldn't understand why was it affected him seeing Prachi with another guy. He wondered who that guy was. And what was he doing with Prachi. And suddenly his mobile started vibrating and he picked it up off from the side table and looked at the number, it was Prachi calling. What does she want now he thought, he was really angry at what she did to him today and he didn't feel like talking to her right now. Prachi realised that Milind might be really upset with her as she had totally forgotten about their meeting , that's why he wasn't answering his phone . She tried few times before her mother called her and said "Prachi beta neecha aayo , dinner ready hai" She tried couple more times before going downstairs to join Neev and her mother for dinner. At night Milind couldn't sleep for some reason, he kept tossing and turning unable to sleep. His alarm went off around 7.30am and he raised his arm to turn off his alarm. He didn't feel like getting up as he was feeling too tired. So he decided to skip college today plus he didn't feel like talking or seeing Prachi after what he saw yesterday. Milind lay in his bed, just staring at the ceiling. Prachi got up at her usual morning time and got ready to go to college. She came downstairs as everyone was eating breakfast, but Prachi just grabbed a banana before leaving. PL came running after her screaming to have a proper breakfast. But there was only one thing on her mind right now that was go to college and see Milind before her class started. She kept looking for Milind all around college but he was nowhere to be seen. Then finally she bumped into one of his buddies name Ali and asked him if he had seen Milind around today. But Ali said "Milind to aaj college aaya hi nahi" Prachi asked if he had talk to Milind today and why wasn't he coming to college , Ali said he doesn't know as he hasn't spoken to Milind since yesterday and didn't see him anywhere in college today either. Prachi got really worried and decided to go to Milind's house.
She drove to Milind's house. Standing in front of Milind's house she rang the door bell. Nobody answered the door so she thought that Sukruti might be gone to college also. "But what about Milind" where could he have gone. She stood front of the door for few minutes and suddenly somebody opened the door. It was Milind. He didn't look too happy to see her. He looked at Prachi with frown on his forehead. Scanned her from head to toe. As if asking her what the hell was she doing at his house? But he didn't say anything. Prachi said "hi Milind, you didn't come to college today so I just wanted to make sure that everything was okay". Milind didn't answer her, he just left door open and went back inside the house. Prachi just followed him inside the house. As they went into the living room, Prachi started to explain about what had happened yesterday and how she had totally forgotten about their meeting. Milind acted as if he didn't really care that she never showed up for their meeting. Prachi asked "Milind have you picked up the books from the library that we had put on reserve. He said "yeah, they are in my room" she smiled at him but he didn't smile back at her. So she grabbed his hand and said "I am really sorry Milind, mujhe maaf kar do please aisi galti phir nahi hogi" to that Milind smiled and said "agli baar aisa kiya to main tumse baat nahi koranga" and Milind offered chai but Prachi said they'll have it later. As of right now, she wanted to get those books and start working on their project. Milind went up the stairs to his room and Prachi followed him. Prachi looked around his room, it looked very clean today compare to last time when she came in. everything was in its place. Prachi sat down on one corner of his bed while Milind grabbed the chair and got the books. As Prachi was looking through the books, Milind kept staring at Prachi. She looked really beautiful today, he thought. Prachi was wearing red Punjabi suit, with her hair left open. As Prachi was trying pick up the book from the nearby table where Milind had placed them earlier, one of the book fell on the floor. Milind and Prachi tried to pick it up at same time and Milind's hand went over Prachi's hand. And they both looked at each other. He placed one hand on her cheek, stared caressing it, Prachi closed her eyes as Milind tilted his head and brought his face close to hers. And suddenly they heard Sukruti calling Milind from downstairs. Both Prachi and Milind came out of their current state and looked at each other.
'By the way Prachi I met Mrs Kavita Vyas on the way here she needs to speak to us' he had informed her watching her try her best to keep her errant strands at bay as they hung loosely framing her face. 'What for?' Prachi had inquired Mrs Kavita Vyas was their English teacher, literature was her passion and she was almost always involved in some project or the other. She feared the call being about the book report they had to submit that week she hadn't even started on it. I mean who in their sane minds would want to read 'Julius Ceasar' the guy was dead and that was that. 'I dunno I didn't really ask her much, she said she wants us to meet her at the auditorium at 3:00 this afternoon.' 'Great!' Prachi mumbled and she was supposed to meet Neev at 3. 'Is it necessary? I mean do I have to come?' she had inquired disheartedly the last thing she wanted was a lecture on submitting boring assignments on time. 'No it's ok if you don't I'll just tell her you haven't even looked at that Ceasar guy forget reading it and she might as well expect your report by the next millennium.' He had replied enjoying her horror 'Milind' she screamed pummeling his chest with soft punches 'Dare you do that and I'll kill you!' she threatened bending over to face him, her hair fell gently on his cheek and he had inhaled deeply before studying her flushed face minutely. 'You can't kill a guy twice' he laughed winking at her and she stared at him unable to understand the depth of the comment. 'Well it's the first time I've threatened you ever' she had retorted slightly embarrassed as she drew back to her former position pushing her hair behind her ear effortlessly. Sitting up Milind had deftly pulled her scarf from her shoulder and in one smooth motion he had collected her velvet tresses in one hand while the other swiftly tied the scarf around them capturing them neatly. 'There now they won't irritate you so' he had said before standing up he rolled down his sleeves and buttoned his shirt, brushing off bits of grass off his trousers he picked up his backpack. 'Just ten minutes to three' he had reminded her before offering his hand to her which she had gladly accepted.
The auditorium was practically empty but as they proceeded they found the entire English department and the literary society seated there. The bleachers had slowly started filling up. 'Uh oh' Prachi had thought 'Now she was in deep trouble Mrs Vyas would surely humiliate her in public.' She looked around in apprehension gauging her fear Milind had slipped his hand in hers and boldly marched up to the English teacher. 'Mrs Vyas you had called us!' he had started when she smiled brightly at them 'Oh I'm glad you two could make it' she had chirped it was obvious she was elated about something 'Divya write down their names too' she had ordered her assistant who proceeded to jot down Milind and Prachi's name on a piece of paper, it appeared to be a list of some sort.
As they exited the building Prachi could not help but complain 'Milind you know I can't do this then why did you put my name down for Juliet?' she had questioned him seriously. Milind had known this was coming he stood somberly listening to her vent her frustration on his actions, the fact was Mrs Vyas had informed Milind about the play and her desire for them to try out for the roles earler that morning. She was a woman with a keen eye and she had spotted the raw emotion both Milind and Prachi possessed they could create magic she was sure of it and she wanted that magic to light her stage. She had told Milind to bring Prachi along with him and get her name down for the part, she knew Prachi could be groomed and Milind was a born star there was no doubt about that. 'Prachi I know you think you can't do it, but trust me you can' he had tried cajoling her. 'Milind I can't' Prachi had whimpered in defeat her eyes threatened to spill their watery contents 'Prachi' Milind had called softly cupping her face with his hands and her eyes had closed letting her tears flow freely he could see she was afraid and sad 'Prachi' he called again wiping her tears with his thumbs 'Do you not trust me?' he had inquired in a tone that indicated how hurt he was and her eyes had fluttered open as her hands rested on his own. 'I trust you Milind....it's just myself that I don't' she had said her lips trembling slightly, her vulnerability tore his heart apart. 'Prachi I promise you and I we'll make this special and when the entire world will acknowledge you as my Juliet I'll be there with you, to see you smile. I want you to overcome your fear Prachi. Life is hard cruel at times and I want you to be brave. I know it's difficult for you but I'll be here with you....always!' he had bent his face placing his lips on her forehead and she had known he had meant every word he had said. Closing her eyes she let his warmth seep in her soul loving his touch, releasing her he had raised his eyebrows in question 'So when do I come to rehearse?' and she had laughed aloud. 'Tonight my Romeo by my bower I will wait for thee' she had assented and he had grinned happy to see her happy. "Fine I'll pick you up at 7' he had said as she took her seat behind him on his motorbike.
O Romeo, Romeo! wherefore art thou Romeo?
Deny thy father and refuse thy name;
Or, if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love,
And I'll no longer be a Capulet.
I take thee at thy word:
Call me but love, and I'll be new baptized;
Henceforth I never will be Romeo.
By whose direction found'st thou out this place?
By love, who first did prompt me to inquire;
He lent me counsel and I lent him eyes.
I am no pilot; yet, wert thou as far
As that vast shore wash'd with the farthest sea,
I would adventure for such merchandise.
"Bhaiya...Prachi kyun aisa baghkar chali gaye?" Sukruti asked concerned after watching Prachi tearfully leave. Milind did not answer but carried on staring blankly at the floor. "Bhaiya..." Sukruti gently touched Milind's shoulder. "Sukruti please mujhe akela chordey!" Milind snapped looking enraged. Sukruti walked out of his room shutting the door firmly behind her. Sukruti knew Milind had a temper on him however she was left wondering what had happened between Prachi and Milind for them to be behaving the way they were.
Milind looked in the mirror angry at himself for being weak. He had given in so easily to the heat of the moment. Prachi had consumed his senses and in that one moment he lost control. He gave into the desire in his heart and shared a passionate kiss with Prachi. He had to fight so hard with himself to pull back and let her go but he knew it was for the best.
Milind had grown very close to Prachi she was unlike any other girl he had known. Prachi was kind, gracious and unique. Milind had learnt a lot from Prachi and in turn had been able to grow into a better person. He realised the real meaning of friendship and it was not something to be lost. However whenever he was around Prachi he was unable to control the fire inside him that she awakened. He knew that moments of passion he felt would only lead him to regretful actions, actions that would only bring Prachi pain that she did not deserve.
Milind slumped onto the floor resting his back against the wall, his anger settled and mind cleared. He placed his face in his hands I think I love her.... he admitted for the first time... I love Prachi...but...I can't be with. I don't deserve her love and can't risk our friendship. Prachi has shown me what the real meaning of friendship is. Maybe I have already ruined things by kissing her. I don't know what comes over me when I see her, her angelic beauty sets my pulse racing, in her beautiful eyes I get lost and as hard as I try I'm unable to pull away. I need control these impulses because I do not want to lose Prachi as a friend or cause her any pain. Milind slowly got up and repeated one final time, I love her! Milind was still trying to process this revelation that he had only just discovered. He didn't know when or exactly how but Prachi was the one who owned his heart.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Prachi came home and crashed into her bed. Her tears flowed as Milind's thoughts filled her mind. The closeness to Milind weakened her and her heart gave in to the passion. Her first kiss, it was special and magical. If she could have asked for anything then it would have been to stop that moment and make it last forever. The one kiss made her realise how deeply she had fallen for Milind. However the silence they shared broke with Milind's fierce words. The beauty of the moment was ruined with the harsh reality of Milind's feelings. Milind was only attracted physically to Prachi nothing more. The man Prachi had fallen in love with did not and could not love her in the same way. The pain of knowing this truth hurt, the man that her heart longed for could never be hers.
Prachi tried to console herself by thinking that Milind was never the right man for her. He was arrogant, self-conceited and vain. She questioned why she fell in love with him in the first place then she recalled the moments she spent with him. When Milind was away from everyone, when they were alone he was so kind and gentle. Prachi thought she brought out a side in him that no-one else saw and she cursed herself for doing that. If she had stayed away and kept her distance then this would have never happened but she could not deny the attraction she felt for Milind. She knew that what happened had happened and now there was no running away from it, she was in love with Milind, a man who did not love her back. What that thought in her mind Prachi drifted off to a restless sleep.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Prachi awoke to the beaming sun with a numbing feeling creeping all over her. The pain of the previous day's events still loomed and the prospect of seeing Milind scared her. She didn't know how she would be able to face him; skipping college was not an option so she decided that she would do her best to avoid Milind. She knew that she could not keep running away from the truth but with the wound still fresh she needed time.
Milind patiently waited outside class to catch Prachi before college started but she was no-where insight. As the final bell rang Milind walked into class regretfully thinking that Prachi would not turn up to college. He sat in his seat absentmindedly staring out of the window paying no notice to his teacher. However something captured his attention, the sound of Prachi's sweet voice, he sharply turned to the door. There stood Prachi dressed in white looking mesmerising. For moment Milind's eyes remained fixed at the door even though Prachi had taken a seat. Once again he was taken aback by her beauty and simplicity however he was brought back to his senses as he tried to control these feelings for Prachi. Seeing Prachi, Milind felt a since of relief as it meant he would be able to clear the air. Today he had to sort things out between him and Prachi, he didn't know exactly what he was going to say or do but he needed settle things before the awkwardness between them grew.
Milind impatiently stared at the clock on the wall waiting for lesson to end and after what felt like aeons class was over. Prachi hurriedly escaped from class not wanting to take the chance of bumping into Milind as she had witnessed his constant glances towards her during class, however Milind had his eyes firmly set on Prachi and as soon as the bell rang he leapt out of his seat. He called out for Prachi a couple of times but she pretended she did not hear. Prachi's pace quickened as she looked straight ahead hoping Milind would get lost in the crowd filling the corridor. Once Prachi felt that she had lost Milind she came to a standstill trying to catch her breath. She leaned against the wall gasping for air, she had never walked so fast in her life but she needed to get away. After regaining her composure Prachi was about walk away when she felt someone catch her hand, "Prachi..." Milind softly called.
"Prachi what I did yesterday I shouldn't have done it and I am so sorry. I shouldn't have left the auditorium, I shouldn't have kissed you and then I shouldn't have yelled at you. I know I hurt you, caused you pain and maybe even lost your trust but Prachi I don't want to lose you as a friend." Prachi didn't know how to react as it pained her to know that Milind regretted what happened but on the other hand he was being so sincere. "Please Prachi forgive me!" Milind said adorable holding his ears and Prachi gave a little smile which gave Milind hope that things could go back to how they were. However Prachi knew in her heart that after yesterday everything had changed, it was going to be so hard for her to be just Milind's friend. "Thanks Prachi I am so happy that things are sorted between us. Let's go to the cafeteria now." Milind said with a big grin. "Sorry I can't come I have to meet Neev but you go," Prachi was thankful that Neev had insisted to meet her today. "Ok," Milind replied a little annoyed but he knew that he had no right being jealous Prachi and him were just friends he had made that decision himself.
Prachi's mood increased greatly as she talked to Neev, "I found out that Ayesha likes to keep to herself to herself, she has hardly any friends and definitely no boyfriends. Also that she has a huge temper and no-one wants to get on her bad side." "Oh a temper, I don't mind. Did find out where she spends her time outside of college?" Neev asked trying to get all the information about Ayesha from Prachi. "Well I heard that she has a job at Asha's Cafe, she works there every day after college for a couple of hours." "Great Prachi this time you have done well but this doesn't mean stop I want to know everything about her," Neev instructed Prachi. "The things I have to for friendship. Neev you have me practically stalking at college." "But aren't I worth it," Neev said cheekily to which Prachi gave a pondering look and burst into laughter. "So Prachi tell me is there anyone that you like? Then I will do the same for you." Prachi wanted to confide in Neev but resisted knowing that there was no point dwelling on something that would never be.
Milind walked into the cafeteria and as soon as Pooja spotted him, she wrapped her arms around him. Milind sat down with his friends; "Milind where have you been lately?" asked Ravi, "I have heard that you have been attending of all your classes. What's happening is it because of that girl?"Milind knew Ravi was talking about Prachi and chose to ignore Ravi. "Have you seriously fallen for her?" he enquired. "Ravi what are you saying Milind and that girl no way. That girl can never be good enough for Milind." Pooja butted in trying to impress Milind. "It's nothing like that Prachi is just a friend, a very good friend. And so what if I have been attending all my classes? I plan to finish college this year and if means going classes then I don't mind," Milind said abrasively, wondering for the first time why he was even friends with some of these people. "Chill Milind I was just joking! No need to get so serious," Ravi gave Pooja a confused look. Pooja felt Milind trying to push her away but she held onto him tighter, "don't you get a hint Pooja, get off me!" Milind pushed Pooja's arm and gave a stern stare which made her walk away. "Honestly Milind what's wrong?" Sehal asked who genuinely concerned about his friend who was normally so upbeat. "Sorry, it's nothing. So tell what have I been missing lately?" Sehal filled Milind on all the latest goings-on.
Pooja had run off to the ladies toilet where she met up with Tina her sidekick. "Tina I don't know what's happened to Milind? He has never spoken to me like that before, he is slowly changing and I have to make it stop." Pooja said while staring vainly at herself in the mirror. "Pooja I think it's all because of that Prachi. Ever since Milind has been spending time with her he has changed," Tina gave Pooja a reason for Milind's changed behaviour which she agreed with. "I think you are right Tina and we have to do something about that girl so she stays away from Milind." Pooja said turning to Tina with a sly look on her face. "But how?" Tina asked wanting to know the plan Pooja had come up with. "It is very simple and you help me with it," Pooja said before telling Tina the whole plan. "Pooja you are just too clever how do you come up with these things?" Tina asked impressed. Pooja smirked at her then strutted out the toilets.
Part 16 by May"Milind you don't even remember my birthday?" she wailed All the others looked at Pooja with a confused look on their face except Tina. "Sorry Pooja, I can't come to the party because I have some important things that I have to do" Milind replied staring blankly at the table. He didn't want to go to the party. He couldn't forget what happened in Robbie's birthday party. How he had behaved with Prachi. He couldn't control his anger any longer and and left the place in a hurry.,but Pooja knew exactly what she could do next to make her plan a success.
Later on in the classroom, Milind went and sat next to Prachi. As the teacher proceeded to give a boring lecture to the class all Milind did was stare at Prachi. He didn't know why but he felt that something wrong was going to happen. Since he had kissed her he felt miserable but he didn't know what was happening to him. She was his friend, she was a very good friend of his but he wanted to be more than her friend. The night after he kissed her he thought it was love then he thought he was attracted to her, but he wasn't able to figure out whether it was love or attraction. All these different thoughts were going through his mind, he felt like he was going through a roller coaster of emotions. He wants to be more than a friend, he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her but at the same time he was too scared. He was scared that if he told her the truth he might lose her friendship, she might not talk to him again, their friendship wouldn't be the same but what if she felt the same way too. He finally decided that whatever happened he won't tell her how he felt. "That will be the best for both of us" he whispered to himself . Then the bell rang and they all left the classroom.
Prachi felt strange that day whatever she did or thought led to one single moment the moment when he had kissed her. Why had it felt so special so beautiful different but then the aftermath hadn't been promising either. She had thought he would tell he liked her that he would like to continue being friends with or perhaps embark on a whole new journey with her one that exceeded friendship. She in turned had wanted to elaborate on her own feelings for him but all those thoughts had been reduced to mere illusions nothing of the sort had happened on the contrary he had made her feel low of herself. She felt cheated and used entering her room she collapsed on the bed and started sobbing.
"He doesn't love me" she cried out loud. Ramu kaka who heard her, knocked on the door. " Prachi beta, "Can I come in?" he asked. " Of course" Prachi replied wiping her tears. Ramu kaka slowly sat on the bed. They were both silent for a while, when Ramu kaka broke the silence " Who is he?" he asked. Prachi looked at him terrified then slowly asked "Who are you talking about?" "The guy you like" he replied. Then prachi couldn't control her misery and had started crying again.
After a while she told Ramu kaka everything about Milind and what happened between them. Ramu kaka who was silently listening to this, said " He might love you but he might be scared to confess even to his ownself" Prachi gave him a confused look. "What do you mean she asked?" Ramu kaka started laughing. " As far as I know if a boy likes a girl then they tend to get scared to tell them because they fear that the girl might say no, or might not talk to him and all these things." Prachi listened to him quietly. " Prachi, I think that's exactly what Milind is going through.so why don't you talk to him?" He asked. "You're right" Prachi replied. " I will talk to him about this" she continued.
The phone rang. Prachi picked it up. She heard a familiar voice say hello. " Who is this" Prachi asked. " It's me Pooja" she replied. "What do you want?" Prachi asked impatiently. " It's my birthday party tomorrow so I thought of inviting you Milind will also be there." She replied with an evil grin on her face. " I will try to come" saying that Prachi quietly put the phone down.
On the other hand, when Milind returned home,he went to his bedroom straight away and decided to take a bath. The cold water would help cool his burning nerves he felt irritated angry and restless all at the same time quite surprised at his own condition he had never felt that way for any girl earlier. He wondered what was it that pulled him to Prachi When he returned he heard the phone ring. He picked it up.
"Are you coming to my party Milind?" Pooja asked " Prachi will be there too." She quickly added. Milind didn't know what to say. Then he replied " I will try to come" he said and put the phone down as quick as possible. He had a bad feeling about this.Both Milind and Prachi didn't know what Pooja had planned for them.
Thank You
B
Cricket
Current Affairs
Shiv Shakti
Ye Hai Mohabbatein
