Part II page 5
I know Christmas is more than a month away, but I was thinking and thinking and nothing like my last year's idea came up. So decided ok will do a short story, only the short story has turned into more than 20 page monster so had to stop for a break. It's mushy, so the mushy brigade will enjoy it. I am demanding lots of comments, it took me days to write it.
All I want for Christmas
I don't want a lot for Christmas
There's just one thing I need
I don't care about the presents
Underneath the Christmas tree
I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
All I want for Christmas is...
You
I don't want a lot for Christmas
There's just one thing I need
I don't care about the presents
Underneath the Christmas tree
I don't need to hang my stocking
There upon the fireplace
Santa Claus won't make me happy
With a toy on Christmas day
I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
All I want for Christmas is you
You baby
I won't ask for much this Christmas
I don't even wish for snow
I'm just gonna keep on waiting
Underneath the mistletoe
I won't make a list and send it
To the North Pole for Saint Nick
I won't even stay awake to
Hear those magic reindeers click
'Cause I just want you here tonight
Holding on to me so tight
What more can I do
Baby all I want for Christmas is you
Ooh baby
All the lights are shining
So brightly everywhere
And the sound of children's
Laughter fills the air
And everyone is singing
I hear those sleigh bells ringing
Santa won't you bring me the one I really need
Won't you please bring my baby to me...
Oh I don't want a lot for Christmas
This is all I'm asking for
I just want to see my baby
Standing right outside my door
Oh I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
Baby all I want for Christmas is...
You
All I want for Christmas is you... baby (Mariah Carey)
The icy night air stung his face as he walked briskly out of the tube and onto James Street leading to Royal Opera House. He was a little late getting out of the meeting and he hoped his client, who he was meeting was not irked by waiting for him. The doorman smart dressed in uniform, opened the door for him and greeted him cheerfully. Jai just nodded and hurried inside. The elegant foyer was almost empty and he cast a glance around as he handed his coat to the user to be put away for him. He frowned, as he did not see Mark Sutton, the CEO of the company that he was collaborating with in a joint venture in Middle East.
His eye caught a girl waiting nervously near the grand staircase. Dressed in an offwhite silk salwaar khameez, she kept looking at her watch and then towards the door. Jai pulled out the two tickets he had from the pocket of jacket and walked towards the girl.
Clearing his throat to get her attention, he smiled, "Looks like you are also waiting for someone who hasn't turned up."
The girl gave him a shy smile, "Yes. My boss asked me at the last minute to meet his partner as he couldn't make it himself. I don't have his phone number or anything to contact him. He told me he had left message with this person that he will be meeting me. I don't know how long I should wait for him or just leave."
Jai waved two tickets he was holding, "Pity to waste this. Why don't you join me? I know the show has already started and I don't really want to go back out in the cold. By the way my name is Jai Walia"
The girl gave gasp and blushed, "Oh'I am so sorry. I should have asked you your name. My name is Bani Dixit. Actually I am supposed to meet you'Mark has a family emergency and couldn't make it."
Jai clasped her small hand in his and grinned, "Well, nice to meet you Ms Dixit. I should check my Blackberry for messages. I forgot I had turned it turned it off whilst in meeting." He waved at the usher and handed him their ticket s and grasped Bani by her elbow and followed the usher to their seats. They found themselves in a section quiet close to the stage. Most of the seats were empty around them.
Strauss's music filled the perfectly acoustic hall and the dramatic stage was alive with the voice of the soprano performing the role of Elektra. Bani watched with great interest, she had never been to an opera before and had never set foot in this world famous theatre either. The classic tale of love and hate in a family marred by violence brought alive by the excellent cast and exceptional musicians.
Bani never moved or paid attention to her companion throughout the first part of the show. Only when the curtains came down for interval, did she sit back and gave a rapturous smile at Jai. Her eyes sparkled as her words tumbled out, "I have never seen an opera before'and this is just fabulous. Thank you."
Jai smiled, "Great you are enjoying yourself. I have a table booked for dinner, shall we go."
"Dinner'won't we miss the rest of the show." Bani asked.
"No'they are very efficient here. We should be back before the show starts." Plush red seats surrounded the glass table with orchids in vase. They ordered quickly from the menu and then Jai proceeded to ask Bani about her work with Mark. He was surprised to learn that she was one of his senior architect and would part of the team that would work on the project he and Mark were jointly handling. She seemed curious about him and family more than his company and he realized that Bani was in fact working in London on work visa. She had taken up this position with Mark's firm after she finished her Masters at the London's School of Architecture, to gain experience before she returned back home. Home for her was Mt Abu where her parents were teachers at the local public school and where her two young sisters still studied.
The next hour of the opera seemed to fly by. And when the cast took a bow and the curtains fell for the end of the show, disappointment filled her face. She stood up reluctantly and gave a wistful smile. "I wish it hadn't ended so quickly. I haven't seen something so intense before. I will have to drag one of my colleagues to see another show."
"Well I am glad you enjoyed it. It's quiet an experience. Do let me know when you plan to come again, may be I can join you. I should thank you for giving me such a beautiful company."
Bani blushed at the compliment. She gave him a careful look, she hadn't paid much attention before and noted that he was quiet an attractive man. There were strands of grey in jet-black hair near his temples enhancing his look. They collected their coats and stepped out into the cold. They fell into uneasy silence outside'the companionship they had felt inside dissipating in the chilly wind. They walked up to the street level and waited for taxi.
A taxi pulled up shortly and Bani turned to him and held her hand out. "Once again thank you Mr Walia for an enjoyable evening."
Jai held her hand a little longer than necessary. His eyes somewhat thoughtful, "I hope we meet again Ms Dixit." Bani gave him a smile shy and got into the taxi. Jai stood watching the disappearing taxi and then instead of waiting for one for him, he decided to take a brisk walk to the tube and take the train.
He hurried past closed shops, their windows lit to display the designer clothes and accessories'there were hints of coming Christmas from the ornaments and decorations added to the display. Jai barely glanced at the shops, his thoughts occupied by the girl he had just an evening with.
XXXXX
Two weeks later in the high glass tower of his Dubai office, Jai sat waiting for Mark and his team to arrive. The darkly tinted glass of his office, cut out the searing glares of the desert sun. He stood looking out over the sea that stretched out in horizon, the boats sailing on the water, looked like tiny specks from the great height of his office.
A knock on the door made him walk towards it and open it. Pushkar his project manager stood, clutching several files and his laptop, his hair ruffled and his tie a little askew. Jai walked with him to the conference room and watched as Pushkar set down the files and immediately started setting up his laptop. Jai picked up one of the files and flicked through. When Pushkar was done, Jai spoke, "Pushkar you need to fix your tie and then may be your hair."
Pushkar pushed his slipping glasses up and stood up, "I'll just go to the bathroom. Be right back sir."
"Oh Pushkar, tell Sania to come in here for a moment." Jai called out after him.
Sania, his PA arrived promptly holding her notepad and pen. The petite girl who he had hired straight out of college was smart and reliable. It didn't take long for her to become one of his indispensable staff members.
Jai gave out his instructions, "Sania, please call and remind rest of the team they should be here in ten minutes. And once Mark arrives, call down to catering and send in refreshments."
"Oh and Sania, could you call my home and find out if my sister has booked her flight to come here or not."
"Will do Mr Walia."
Fifteen minutes later Jai welcomed Mark and his team. Tarun Sablok worked at legal advisor for Mark, Roshni Chopra project manager. Disappointed Bani did not come with Mark, Jai proceeded to introduce his staff to Mark.
Jai's forehead furrowed into deep lines as he glanced at the names of all the people on the document in front of him'Bani's name was missing. He gave Mark a questioning look, "I thought Bani would be working with us on this project Mark?"
Mark looked baffled, "She is. Why do you think she is not?"
"Her name is not in the list of people who are assigned to the project."
Mark looked at Roshni, "Roshni why is Bani not in the list. Did she ask to be taken off the project?"
Slight colour rose on Roshni's cheek as two men probed her with their eyes. Composing herself internally, "I had to shift her to another project. David is hospitalized and you know he was working on the last stages of Riechman's Innova project."
Mark looked irritated, "Fine'but you should have passed it by me."
Roshni looked down and murmured, "Sorry."
Jai clasped his hands and leaned forward, "Look Mark, I want Bani on this project. I have seen the work she has done on several of your projects, plus I have discussed the project with her and liked the ideas she had. I want her on this project."
Roshni stared at Jai, she couldn't believe what she was hearing. The man was demanding that chit of girl'Bani was definitely not one of their top architect. Roshni fumed silently, both these men, Jai and Mark, seemed to go gaga over Bani.
"I will see what I can do Jai. I will figure something out." Mark said hastily, he was not going to jeopardize the project even before it has started. He had worked too damned hard for a chance to work with Jai.
Jai nodded, "Thanks. Shall we get on with next item for discussion then?"
The meeting dragged late into evening and finally Jai stopped it around six saying they should continue it next day. Jai had arranged for dinner at the restaurant where Mark and his team where staying and they took for there. His mood wasn't into entertaining Mark and his team but Jai had no choice, they were just into initial stage of project and they were here at his invitation.
Roshni sipped her cocktail and watched Jai as he stood at the bar talking with Tarun. The dark grey Armani suit fitted snugly across his broad back. The tie he had worn in the meeting had been discarded and he had undone the top buttons of the very pale blue shirt. The gold Cartier watch gleamed on his bronze skin as he lifted his glass to his mouth. Roshni sighed; he definitely was the kind of men she liked, good looking, successful and rich. She stood up and took the jacket of her suit off to reveal the snug fitting silk tank she was wearing underneath.
Tarun raised his glass as Roshni approached, "Cheers Rosh."
Roshni put her hand on Tarun's shoulders and stood close to him, her eyes trailing over Jai's face. "Jai'so tell us something about yourself'not Jai Walia, one of India's most successful business man but the man away from business world."
Jai smirked, "What do you want to know Roshni? I am not much different to other man. I work hard, I love my family and I like my privacy. I have a sister and a younger brother. My nieces and nephews keep me busy when I am home. So you see, we are still just an ordinary family like everyone else."
"No wife?' Roshni asked, her hazel eyes locked with Jai's black, brown ones.
"No wife. Haven't met anyone yet to tie me down. Or say I have been too busy to look for one." Jai replied, his voice tinged with frothiness
Roshni put her empty cocktail glass down and sidled up to Jai and linking her arm through his, "Good news for me. Well since you are too busy to look yourself, why don't I make it easy for you'you are here and I am here and'" pausing to gauge his look, "we will be working together for a while. What better opportunity to get to know each other."
Jai extricated his arm from Roshni's and gave her a bland look. "Roshni'very kind of you to offer, but like most men, I like to do the chasing."
Tarun guffawed and raised his glass at Jai, "Good one Jai'Roshni darling, I am always here for you when get tired of chasing others." Tarun gulped his drink down and then ordered another one for him and Roshni.
Later in the night in her room, Roshni sat in front of the mirror, brushing her hair. She scrutinized herself, creamy complexion, her hazel eyes, perfectly arched brows, nose and generous mouth. Even her figure was perfect size 8, she did cause men to look at her twice when she walked past, that is most men, except Jai Walia, who seemed to be immune to her charms.
Roshni took a generous amount of cream in her hand and started massaging into face, well she wasn't going to give up so easily, men like Jai Walia were very rare and she was going to snare him somehow.
XXXXX
Jai disembarked off his nighttime flight to London. Tiredness written on his face, he hurried through the customs and out to a waiting taxi. The cheerful cab driver greeted him, "Good morning sir, where to?"
"The Duke." Jai answered.
He leaned his head back as the cab moved on. The lines of the song playing softly made him smile, "All I want for Christmas'" Yes, he knew what he wanted this Christmas'he wanted the girl that had captured his mind and heart ever since he had met her'Bani.
The cab driver grinned as he looked at Jai's face, "It'd be Christmas soon sir. Have you come back home sir?"
Jai smiled, "Not really, home is India, but I am here to see someone special, a girl I met on my last visit here."
The cab driver chuckled, "That is good enough reason'Christmas is best spent with your loved ones. Hope you've got a special gift for her sir'if not, then you'd better go shopping. I always buy my missus a piece of jewellery'they never get tired of rings or necklaces sir."
"Thanks, I will keep that in mind." Jai replied. He looked out the window at the light decorating homes, shops and trees. It reminded him of Diwali back home. Doesn't matter what celebrations people all over the world celebrated, lights seemed to play a big part in all of them. Within minutes the cab stopped in front of his hotel. The doorman came and took his bag as Jai paid the cabdriver.
His usual room had already been pre booked and soon Jai had showered and hit the bed, his drowsy eyes closed on snapshot of Bani's face.
The sounds of early morning rush woke Jai up. He stretched lazily and looked at the clock, bit too early to get up. Instead he turned on the TV and propped himself up on pillows to watch it. Half an hour later he called for room service, he felt the need for a dose of caffeine to shake of his laziness.
By the time he got ready it was already ten. He sat at the desk and fired up his laptop and was soon busy checking his emails and calling his offices in Dubai and Mumbai to get briefed. Late afternoon he called up Mark to fix up a time to meet up the next day.
Jai waited patiently as the receptionist connected him to Bani's extension, his fingers fidgeting with papers on the desk. Hearing her voice sent him into a dizzy spiral, "Hello Bani Dixit."
"Hello'" she said again.
Jai took a deep breath and answered, "Hello Bani'It's Jai'Jai Walia."
Soft laughter filtered down to the line, "Mr Walia. What a pleasant surprise! How are you Mr Walia?"
"I am fine Bani. How are you?"
"I am fine Mr Walia. How can I help you?" She asked politely. He could hear her the keys being tapped away as she talked to him.
"Did Mark of Roshni talk to you about the project? I told Mark, I wanted you for the project."
"Well Mr Walia, I am still trying to complete a project that is also crucial. I am sure once I am finished, Mark will move me back on the project."
Jai cursed silently, he didn't trust Roshni, the woman had some issues with Bani it seems. Well he will have few words to say to Mark. In the meantime there was nothing to stop him from seeing her.
"Bani are you free tonight? I was thinking of inviting you for dinner."
"Dinner'tonight. I think it should be ok. I don't have anything urgent to finish. What time?"
"About seven. I am staying at The Duke. I will see you downstairs."
"Ok Mr Walia. See you later." The line went dead and Jai put his phone down and stretched himself. Now he had few hours to kill before his dinner date. Suddenly he remembered what the cab driver had said the night before'about gift. Within minutes Jai was huddled in his Cashmere coat and walking down Bond Street towards Cartier, which the receptionist had recommended.
Jai stepped into the stylish shop and promptly a smartly dressed salesman welcomed him. Jai browsed the collections and looked little baffled at the display. Having never brought any jewellery for a woman before, he had no idea what to buy. A young woman seeing him looking confused asked, "If you care to tell me for whom you are buying the gift for, perhaps I can help? Your wife sir or a girlfriend?"
Jai coloured slightly, "Just a special friend...a young lady."
"Why don't you take a seat sir and I will find something suitable. Do you have a price in mind?" she aked.
Jai shook his head as he sat down.
She pulled out couple of trays of gold and diamond necklaces, rings and earrings, each a part of special collection. A simple gold and diamond necklace took his fancy'yes it would look good on her. Last time at the opera, she just had simple studs in her ears. The sales girl had the necklace gift wrapped for him as Jai paid for the purchase. He arranged for the purchase to be delivered at the hotel for him as he decided he might as well take a walk and check some more shops out.
XXXXX
He had been pacing in his room for an hour now. He had already dressed in a black dress pants and dark grey cashmere sweater for dinner. Quarter to seven he put on casual jacket and patted the pocket to make sure the gift was tucked away and left his room.
Jai hovered around in the lobby looking in the direction of the door every time it opened. His wait was rewarded when his eyes rested on Bani as she stepped through the door. In two strides he reached her. "Hi Bani." He said, helping her off with her coat.
"Hi Mr Walia."
His eyes shone with open admiration as he noticed the lightly embroidered white chiffon dress and churidaar pants that showed off her slim legs. She looked divine with her hair curled and left loose. Her bangles tinkled as she raised her hand and lightly pushed her hair back, conscious of Jai's stare.
The pink tinge spreading on her cheeks broke the spell, "You look beautiful Bani," he said softly. The pink tinge on her cheek darkened even further. Taking her arm gently he guided her towards the restaurant and seated at their table.
Jai ordered a bottle of wine for them. Bani wondered how he the name, without even looking at the list.
A silence fell as Jai both sat and watched each other in soft glow of the candlelight. The waiter appeared with wine and poured some in Jai's glass and waited for him to taste it. When Jai gave the nod of approval, the waiter filled up the glasses and left.
Picking up his glass, Jai raised it, "Thanks for coming Bani."
Bani smiled and picked up her glass and said softly, "Thanks for inviting me Mr Walia."
Jai cleared his throat, "This is stupid, last time we met we were strangers yet talked away as friends and today both of us seem to be tongue tied."
Bani laughed, "Silly isn't it. But I guess this is more intimate. Tell me how is family Mr Walia? Did you in fly form Mumbai?"
"No, actually I flew from Dubai. The truth is'Bani'I wanted to see you."
Taken back a little, yet feeling somewhat delighted, she asked, "Why?"
"I expected to see you in Dubai with Mark. But found out you had been shifted from the project. I told Mark, I wanted you on the project."
"Roshni'she is Vice President of Operations and oversees all the projects, asked me help out as David is on emergency leave. Actually it's been challenge to try and get the work finished. I have learnt a lot from it." Bani explained, unaware that the mention of Roshni's name has made Jai's eyes go dark with anger.
"I don't like Roshni." The hard tone of his voice matched the hardness in his face. Bani shivered, she did not know what to say. Roshni wasn't a popular manager at work and Bani just tried to keep away form office politics, knowing she was not going to be there long.
It took few moments for Jai to realize that his statement had once again caused silence to fall between them.
He reached over and took Bani's hand, "I am sorry Bani. I shouldn't have said that."
Bani smiled, his warm fingers melting away the uneasiness in her. "Why don't you tell me how the project is going on Mr Walia?"
Jai arched his brow, "No, no talk about work. How about I tell you about my masi? And Bani'please call me Jai. I feel like an old fogey when you call me Mr Walia."
Bani's eyes danced with laughter at his use of the term old fogey. He was anything but that. The rest of dinner went smoothly as both of them talked about their growing up in India, Jai in the city of Mumbai and Bani in small hill resort of Mt Abu but spent most of her school years in Pune.
After Jai had drunk his second cup of coffee, he gave quizzical look at Bani. "Bani I want to give you something, just a token of our friendship."
Bani shook her head, "No Jai'just your friendship is enough."
Placing the shiny blue package in front of her, "Well it's bit too late as I already bought it. Please open it and tell me you like it. I think it will look great with the dress you are wearing."
Bani opening the wrapping carefully and then gasped as she saw the Cartier name in gold embossed on the blue velvet box.
"This is too much'Jai. I can't accept this." She protested.
"You haven't even seen what it is Bani."
"But I know Cartier name'whatever it is'it will be expensive."
"Open it Bani. Tell me if you like it." He did not mean it to sound like a command, but he was not prepared to accept a no from her.
Gingerly Bani opened the case and her eyes widened at the sight of simple gold and diamond necklace. "It's beautiful." She murmured.
Jai got up and lifted the necklace out and put it around the neck, sat down and then his mouth curved into a satisfying smile. 'Yes it is beautiful and it looks even more beautiful on you."
Bani touched the necklace caressing her skin, she felt herself blushing, there was something in his voice and in the way he looked at her. She looked down, her voice stuttered a slightly, "Please Jai'I can't accept such an expensive gift. I'"
He cut her off, his voice husky, "Please don't refuse Bani. I don't consider it expensive. I see it as something special for someone special."
When she gazed at him, she looked confused. He reached over and held her hand, "Don't look so confused. You are special to me." The feelings he felt just thinking about her, he had no explanation for them. Gently pulling her hand out from his, she stood up. "I should leave now. Thank you for the dinner'and the gift."
Jai stood up, "I will drop you home," he said.
Bani protested, "No Jai. I can take a cab."
"Fine I will come with you in the cab." He said as he helped her with her coat.
Bani gave in, she felt utterly nervous now. He had thrown a rolling fireball in her mind and she was confused now with him.
He opened the cab door and then slid next to her, resting his arm lightly across her back. Neither spoke all through the ride. When the cab stopped in front of her apartment block, Bani turned slightly and whispered, "Good night Jai." Before she could turn back, she found his face leaning forward and his lips pressing against her. When he pulled back, she blinked her eyes and quickly turned and exited the cab. He watched her walk through the door before he told the cab to return back to the hotel.
Bani sat in her bedroom in front of mirror staring at the necklace. It was simple yet elegant and looked perfect with the dress like Jai had said. She had liked him the first time she met him and had thought about him occasionally and felt excitement when she thought of working with him on the joint project. A thought of working at his office in India had sprung up but she had quashed it, thinking it would be imposing on their brief friendship if she put the idea to him.
Tonight he had made it obvious that he had deeper feelings for her than just a casual friend. She felt tiny shocks of delight all over, until now she had not given much thought to the opposite sex, just maintained simple friendship with them. When she eventually fell asleep, Bani was still thinking about her evening with Jai Walia.
Next morning at work a large bouquet of peach roses was delivered at Bani's desk inciting comments from her co-workers, especially the men. Bani pulled the small card out of the envelope and stared at the cursive letters that spelt Jai Walia.
Mark gave Jai a dumbfounded look, "You don't mean that Jai. You can't do that. I want let her go. I can't lose her'she is too valuable to me."
Jai arched his brow and smiled, "Oh come on Mark. You know she has no plans to stay in London permanently. She told me she wants to go back home soon."
Mark raked his hand through his blonde hair and then glaring at Jai, he said grumpily, "The only way you will get her is if you marry her because then I want be able to stop her."
Jai leaned forward and chuckled, "You are right, she is all I want for Christmas Mark."
Mark blew breath out, "You are a romantic fool Jai. I wish you good luck."
Jai followed the direction Mark PA gave him to Bani's office. He just wanted to see her before he left.
He knocked on the open door and waited for Bani to away from the screen. Their eyes locked, hers surprised to see him, his gleaming with pleasure. Her shifted to roses standing in a vase on the windowsill. "Thanks for the roses. They are beautiful."
Jai stood leaning against the door, "Pretty colour."
Bani pointed at the empty, "Take a seat Mr Walia."
"No Bani. I just wanted to see you quickly. I am flying to Mumbai tonight as something's come up that needs my attention. I will be back in three four days. We will meet up again when I come back."
Bani smiled, "Have a good trip Jai."
Jai stood straight and locked his eyes on her shining brown ones, "Miss me." And he turned and was gone. Bani giggled, he was funny guy.
Jai ended up staying longer than expected; his sister was creating an issue with her daughter'who had fallen in love with a guy from not the same social circle as theirs. Jai persuaded his brother-in-law to make some enquiries about the boy and his family and then meet them. In the end Aditya and Jai met the boy and his father and it took Jai two days to persuade Jigyasa to at least meet the boy and his family and to make her realize it was Anu's happiness. As soon as Jigyasa had agreed and given permission for Anu to get engaged to Rohit, Jai had booked his return flight.
XXXXX
The sales girl at Cartier gave a smile as Jai walked in. "You are back sir. I hope your friend liked the gift?"
Jai smiled as he took a seat, "Yes she did. Thank you."
"What can I help with today? A ring?" she gave a sly smile as she said.
Jai laughed, "You read my mind. Yes an engagement ring."
In a minute a tray of solitaire was placed in front of him. All them were exceptional design and Jai had a hard time picking one, in the end he chose paved platinum ring with emerald cut diamond.
In his hotel room, Jai looked at the invitation card from Mark for his company's annual dinner party. Jai put the card in his jacket pocket along with the velvet box holding the ring. He gave glance in the mirror and adjusted his tie and fastened the button of his black suit.
Half an hour later he was standing in the private lounge of a glitzy restaurant that Mark had booked. Mark stood, flanked by Roshni, dressed to kill, the red short silk off the shoulder dress showed her figure off perfectly. Her eyes sparkled as she saw Jai. Leaving Mark she came and pecked Jai's cheek, "Hello Jai'must say you are looking hot in black."
Jai gave a tight smile, "Thank you." If Roshni had been expecting a compliment, she did not hear one as Jai moved towards Mark.
"Hello Mark." Jai greeted as he extended his hand to Mark.
"I am glad you could make it Jai. Hope everything is ship shape now."
"Thanks Mark. I managed to sort the problem out." Jai answered but his eyes were scanning the room.
"She is not here yet." Mark said, smirking as he knew who Jai was looking for.
"Who is not here?" Roshni asked.
"Bani." Mark replied, laughing as Jai glared at him.
Roshni's eyes glinted darkly, "Bani. Oh I forgotten Jai that our little Ms Dixit has got her little claw dug into you."
Jai eyes went hard as he stared at Roshni. "Ms Chopra did anyone ever tell you how bitchy you sound."
Roshni's fists curled into a tight ball and red colour marked her cheeks. How dare he insult her like that? She had just spoken the truth' Jai Walia was behaving like a lovesick puppy. Throwing a spiteful look at Jai, Roshni turned and stomped off.
"Well now you have gone and done it Jai'made Roshni mad. You better watch out," Mark warned.
Jai just shrugged, he wished Bani would come soon, he was getting little bit nervous.
Bani arrived with David and his girlfriend a short while later. Mark tapped Jai on the shoulder, "look'" The sight of Bani in a black sari took his breath away, she looked stunning in a sari, the silver embroidery glinted in the light. And she was wearing the necklace he gave her. As he watched, he saw Roshni go up to her and David and say something, which made upset Bani, who immediately turned and walked out.
It took a second for Jai to realize Bani was gone and he almost ran out of the room. Bani stood shivering in the cold outside the restaurant, her arms wrapped tightly around her. Jai stopped by her and turned her around. There were tears in her eyes. "What happened Bani? Why are leaving?" he asked gently.
Bani turned away, "Nothing Jai'I am not feeling well. Please go away, I need to get home."
Jai took off his jacket and wrapped it around her shoulders and felt the chill seep in through his thin shirt. "No Bani'I am not going away. Tell me what did Roshni say?"
Bani shook her head and tears rolled down her cheek. David's girlfriend Karen came out looking for them. She came hesitantly up to them.
"Bani are you ok? David is worried. Please come back in. We all know it's not true what Roshni said."
Jai stared hard at Karen, "What did Roshni say?" He demanded in an assertive voice.
Karen looked at Bani and then back at Jai, looking embarrassed she answered, "She said Bani was a tramp and that she was sleeping her way to get what she wants."
The grip on Bani's shoulder tightened and Bani flinched from the pain. Jai released his grip when he realized he was hurting her, but his eyes were anything but calm. "Thanks." He told Karen in a curt voice. "I will take care of her."
Karen gave a smile and walked away.
Jai did not say anything to Bani but instead steered her towards the restaurant and into the lounge open to the public. He found an empty corner and sat her down. He ordered a glass of scotch for him and juice for bani. When the waiter left his drink, Jai took a large swig of his scotch, feeling the heat spread in his body as it trailed down. He pushed the glass of juice towards Bani, "Take a sip." He told her gently.
Bani clutched at the glass and took a sip and then put it down.
"Bani look at me sweetheart. I came to the party only to see you."
The balmy tone of his voice soothed her nerves, she gazed at him, "You'you should not say that. People misconceive your intention."
Jai reached out and took her hands in his, they felt cold and he instinctively rubbed them. "No one does'only Roshni. But then I guess she can't handle being snubbed. It's my fault. I was rude to her."
Bani gave him a pleading look, "I can't go in. I feel so ashamed."
"Why Bani? It's not true. You haven't done anything wrong. It's me'I am the one who wants you."
His words made her blush. She had missed him more than she realized. He just made her feel special'made her feel loved. Jai stood up, "Come let's go inside. I will stay with you and deal with anyone who so as much looks at you." His menace in his voice made Bani shiver, her eyes watered, "Do I have to?" she asked in a childish voice.
Jai nodded and rubbed his thumb pad gently over her eyes, leaning close to her he whispered, "And no tears."
When they entered David rushed up to them, "Thank God you are ok. Thank you Mr Walia." Jai shook David hand and smiled. David put his arms around Bani, "David is having a word with that bitch. She shouldn't have opened her mouth in a room full of people."
"Come this way, Karen and some of are sitting this way." David led them to the table where people from David's team where sitting. All them welcomed them cheerfully and soon Jai found himself sitting down talking jovially with them. Bani sat and listened, not saying much and tried avoiding looking directly at the people.
After some time David appeared, his face a blank mask. "Ahh there you are. Wondered where you disappeared. Can I steal Bani for a few minutes Jai?" Even though he asked, Jai knew it was a demand. Jai looked at Bani and gave her a reassuring glance and watched as both of them disappeared into a room.
David scanned the room, "Well I don't see her. I hope David kicked her butt out of good." A murmur of agreements went around. David crossed his arms and looked directly at Jai, "How long have you known Bani Mr Walia?"
"Well almost two months. I met her when Mark sent her in his place for a casual meeting we were having."
"And it was love at first sight right?" Karen asked mischievously.
Jai grinned, "Something like that. She is special." The group ah'd at the mushiness in his voice. "I guess she won't be with us much longer then." David gave Jai a meaningful look and asked, "You are going to marry her?"
Jai pulled out the Cartier box, "I was going to ask her tonight'now I am not sure if I should wait." The women on the table all said together, "Oh you have to do it tonight and in here. We would love to see Bani's face when you ask her."
The men clinked their glasses in agreement.
Bani returned in few minutes and they all headed for the buffet table. Jai stood behind her watched her put small bits of food on her plate. He leaned close to her ear and asked, "Are you ok?" Bani turned and smiled at him, "Yes'just not so hungry."
After they were done eating, the girls went off to the bathroom. Karen came back in two minutes and tapped Jai, "What is your favourite song?" she asked. Jai looked at the blankly.
Karen rolled her eyes, "You know a song that you like'something to dance. I will go and request the DJ for you."
"Oh'" Jai said as if a light went on somewhere in his brain. "All I want for Christmas'I don't know who the artist is, heard it in a cab couple of weeks back."
"Mariah Carey'you like that song." David said with a laugh.
"Why not, what's wrong with it?" he asked.
Karen glared at David, "Ignore him'he is just being silly. It's a good choice."
Karen gave thumps up few minutes later when she returned. Bani gave him a quizzical look, "What was that for?" Jai smiled, "Nothing." Bani looked at Karen and cast her a questioning look, she just grinned at her and shrugged.
A few minutes later the song started playing, David pushed Jai, "Go on'take her on the dance floor." David pulled Karen on her feet and the rest followed Jai and Bani to the dance floor. Jai held her lightly as they both moved awkwardly. Bani grimaced, "I am not much of a dancer Jai."
Jai shrugged, "Me neither." He hummed the song as they moved. "You like Mariah Carey?" Bani asked.
Jai smiled, "I don't really know her'I just heard this song, last time I was here and when Karen asked me what song I like, I said this one'because it means something special to me."
Bani couldn't help saying, "It's a Christmas song'I guess kind of a Christmas wish."
Jai pulled her closer, his hand slipping down to her bare waist, enjoying the feel of her satiny skin under his palm, "Yes'my Christmas wish."
Aware of his hand on her bare skin, Bani felt butterflies in her stomach. She asked softly, "I am curious, do I get to know what it is?"
Jai stopped dancing and knelt down in front of her and pulled the velvet box out. He opened it and held it out to her, "Here is my wish Bani'will you marry me? I love you and All I want for Christmas is you."
Everyone had stopped dancing and stood around them watching Bani. Karen seeing the shocked look on Bani, shouted out, "Come on Bani'say yes. This is so romantic." Bani stared at David and Karen. David gave thumbs up to her and the rest of the crowd started shouting, "Say yes'come on Bani'it a yes."
Bani felt her cheek burn as she looked at Jai, he eyes gazed at her intensely, hope written on his face. This was the last thing she had expected. She liked him'she had missed him and knew he had feelings for her too but the thought that he loved her had never crossed her mind. With her heart beating wildly she nodded, "Yes'but we have to talk," she whispered.
Jai slipped the ring on her finger and got up and hugged her. A loud cheer went up and everyone rushed to congratulate. Mark shook Jai's hand, "I guess you really meant what you said last time. Congratulations."
Jai asked for champagne to be served to everyone to celebrate. For Bani the rest of the evening was a blur, her feet aching as they got dragged to dance the night away.
Past midnight they finally managed to get away. As they sat in the back of the taxi, Jai took her hand the one with the ring and asked, "Do you like the ring, we can get it exchanged if you want?"
Bani gazed at the shimmering diamond on the finger, "No its beautiful. Jai I have to speak to may parents. I have to get papa's permission."
Jai entwined their fingers, "It's fine by me. I have spoken to Mark. He said you are free to go whenever you want. I was hoping you will fly back with me on 24th. My niece is getting engaged on 26th and I want to be there and hope you will join us too."
"24 is two days away Jai'I don't know if I can get away'there is work'my apartment." Bani said with panic.
Jai squeezed her hand. "You don't have to worry about work. I told you Mark would not stop you. And your apartment, why don't you keep it, we can use it when we come here. I want you to work on that project with me, if you want that is."
When she looked at him, her eyes were shiny with tears. "I don't know how to thank you."
Jai's eyes twinkled as he said near her ear, "I know how'" and he lifted her chin up and kissed her softly on her lips. He felt her shiver when his lips touched her. He pulled back and gazed at her, his eyes dark with emotions, "I love you."
TBC'
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