reserved
😵 hmmmm, reserved?
Just kidding take your time 😊
Originally posted by: shahrukh_divya
awsum update...
luved prem n heer scnes.......
Originally posted by: munam_13
I love this STORY!!!! will comment BIIIIIIIIIG later Big smile
Originally posted by: sweet_gurl93
hey awesome update
lol i liked preet nd meher's plan :)
cnt wait for more
xx
great update....haha premeer locked in the storeroom....Meet simply rock...love them...continue soon
Originally posted by: Prem4everRamsha
lovely part!
cant wait to read the next one!! (:
Originally posted by: pinky2009
thanks a lot for the lovely posts and pm.. Smile
Thank you all for your lovely comments! 😃 I'm so happy you are enjoying the fic!
that was awesome! I cant beleive they forgot about their siblings! Veera and er friends piss me off! who thinks about that type of stuff! especially in canada! I hope some one finds premeer! Thanks for updatinggg!
I know. I'm pissed off at Veera too and I'm writing this fic 😆
Originally posted by: ...Nikhita...
hiiii grace!
don't apologise for long chapters dear....i loooooooove it!
this part was wonderful....so meet's plan worked.....
and premeer managed to come out too!
hope we get to see more romance between them!
wonder who has a burning fever?
continue soon....
My chapters are getting longer and longer for some reason 😲 Thanks for not minding!
Originally posted by: alisha_harshiti
prem heer scenes were really gud.thnx for the pm grace...hope ur net will get oky soon
I'm currently at an internship and the place I'm staying at doesn't have Internet. It's only on the weekends when I go to my friend's house or go to a place that has free wi-fi do I get to use the net. ðŸ˜
Okay now, on with the next chapter! Please click on the Youtube links I provided for the songs. I tried really hard to find songs that fit the mood 😉 Hope you enjoy this next chapter!
Chapter 17: Burning Fever
Meher pouted her lips wondering what was talking Preet so long to get the drinks. She started walking towards the refreshment table when she bumped into a tall man wearing a royal blue sherwani. She looked up and smiled apologetically.
"Oh, hey Meher. Sorry about that. Happy Diwali!" Miliand greeted.
"Sorry, it was my fault," Meher apologized. "Happy Diwali to you too!"
"Oh this is, Praachi," he introduced pulling a girl wearing a beautiful red sequenced saree closer to him.
"Hi, Meher nice to meet you. Happy Diwali," Praachi timidly responded.
Meher noticed the slight hue of red on her cheeks and sweetly smiled. "Happy Diwali Praachi. And very nice meeting you."
"By the way Meher, you haven't seen Prem or Heer around have you?" Miliand asked.
She shook her head vigorously, "Nope, don't know where they are."
He gave a frown at her response. "It's like they disappeared. I thought I saw them a few hours ago."
Meher laughed nervously, "Heh, Prem's probably walking around someone where. Preet told me he doesn't like to dance so maybe he's avoiding the dance floor. And Heer's um, at the refreshments table."
He nodded his head, "I suppose. Well, if you see either one let them know I'm looking for them."
"I will. Oh, you haven't seen Preet by any chance have you?" Meher asked. "He went to get some drinks like 30 minutes ago and he hasn't come back."
Miliand chuckled, "Looks like the Juneja brothers have a habit of disappearing. No, sorry I haven't seen him. I'm sure he'll turn up."
Meher bid farewell to the couple and continued on her journey to find Preet. She hadn't made it very far when she ran into Sanjana who had a worried expression on her face. "Meher," she said as she grabbed her arm. "You haven't seen Prem have you?"
She swallowed hard, "Um, no why?"
"He promised me he would dance one dance with me. Now that the music has started he's like disappeared," Sanjana replied worriedly.
"Hey, there you guys are," Kunal said as he approached them. "Have any of you seen Heer?"
Sanjana's eyes grew wide, "She's missing too?" She felt her chest tighten as images of Prem and Heer together floated through her mind.
"What missing?!" Meher shouted alarmingly. Kunal and Sanjana arched their eyebrows at her sudden outburst. "I-I mean, she's not missing," waving her hand, "I just saw Heer a minute ago...at-at the refreshments table."
Kunal scratched his head, "Really? I just came from there. I didn't see her."
"You must have just missed her. Okay I'm talk to you guys later," Meher said hurriedly and quickly walked away.
Meher twisted the end of her dupatta with her hands searching with her eyes desperately trying to locate Preet. She was worried now that people were asking about Prem and Heer. In the far distance she spotted a very familiar looking back, she grimaced and marched over. Meher grabbed his shoulder spinning him around, "Preet what took you so long?!"
The man blinked a couple of times at her in confusion. "Excuse me?" he softly responded.
Meher stood shock to see someone who resembled Preet but wasn't Preet. He had a scruffy beard and a mellow timid aura about him. "Oh, I'm sorry I thought you were Preet," she said very embarrassed now that she realized he was wearing a light blue sherwani.
The man shook his head, "Sorry."
Just then an angelical woman wearing a golden orange and fuchsia saree walked towards them. "Manav, I got you some pakoras."
He smiled kindly, "Thank you Archana. You have some too."
She gently nodded her head, "But you eat first." Then noticing Meher standing to the side, "Hi, I'm Archana."
"Oh, hi," smiling cheerily, "I'm Meher," she answered.
"Do you know Manav?" Archana asked.
"Oh, actually I accidentally mistook him for someone else," she apologetically replied.
"There you are Meher," Preet said suddenly appearing out from behind. "I'm so sorry. This guy at the refreshment table kept talking to me about the economy and wouldn't let me leave." He handed her one of the drinks in his hand. Then addressing the couple she was talking to, "Hey, what's up my brother from another mother." Manav gave an acknowledging smile. "Can you believe it? He's like my twin," Preet said. "So Archana how's your brother?"
"He's fine. He sends his wishes for a Happy Diwali and apologizes that he couldn't come. Manjusha's on bed rest," she explained.
"When's the baby due?" he asked.
"She's about two weeks away...everyone is really excited," she replied.
"Archana was going to stay at home and take care of her until Vinod insisted she come and celebrate," Manav said. He turned towards her with a loving look, "She works too hard sometimes."
Preet nodded in agreement, "You've helped out a lot people. We still can't forget how you took care of Kulraj during her pregnancy."
Archana smiled, "Anything for a friend. By the way have you seen Prem? We haven't had a chance to wish him yet."
Preet smirked, "You know him. He's probably hiding in a corner somewhere. He doesn't like to dance. I'll send him your way when I see him. Well, Happy Diwali...send my wishes to Vinod...enjoy your night."
"Happy Diwali!" Archana and Manav both wished as Preet and Meher walked away.
Meher grabbed Preet's arm as soon as they left and whispered, "Don't you think we should let them out. There's been a lot of people asking about Prem and Heer."
"Relax, Meher," Preet replied. "We'll let them out soon enough. The night is still young." He placed their drinks on a nearby table and then took her back onto the dance floor.
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Sanjana scanned the room searching for Prem. She had been looking for him for the past 45 minutes and she was finding it very strange that no one had seen him. The Juneja house was large no doubt but the party was located in the central area of the house that it would be impossible not to spot him sooner or later. She sighed contemplating to give up in defeat for the night. The fast dance music that had been playing for most of the party slowed to a halt as DJ Sang announced, "Okay were going to slow things down for a bit. This one's lady's choice."
The melodic guitar interlude echoed through the house as Kelly Clarkson song "A Moment Like This" began to play (*I absolutely love this song* http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-yYHeGDZlk). One by one the couples began to form on the dance floor swaying to the romantic melody. Sanjana's eyes perked as she saw Prem coming walking in from the pool entrance. She hardly noticed that Heer was standing next to him when she rushed over and grabbed Prem's hand dragging him onto the dance floor. "I've been looking for you everywhere. You promised me a dance," she commanded.
Prem sheepishly rubbed the back of his head, "Oh, yea...that dance."
She took his hand into hers and looked at him, "Promise is a promise."
Prem nodded and was about to place his hand on her back when he realized her top was rather low cut. He swallowed hard not knowing what to do. "Prem," Sanjana said. "Standing is not dancing." He hesitantly rested his fingers on her back making sure his palm didn't touch down. Prem felt uneasy having to touch her bare skin. Sanjana on the other hand was savoring the feeling and the closeness they were sharing as they moved about the dance floor. She smiled at him taking in the strong features of his face.
Oh, I can't believe it's happening to me
Some people wait a lifetime
For a moment like this
Prem wore a tight expression on his face just concentrating on his footwork. He glanced up and spotted Heer standing with her arms crossed. He couldn't make out if she was indifferent or angry. A small smile played against his lips at the latter idea. Was it possible that she was jealous? His mind toyed with that thought as a kernel of happiness spread through him.
Meher nudged Preet and whispered, "How did they get out of the storage room?"
He grinned, "PB must have found the window behind one of the shelving things."
She looked at Preet in amazement, "You knew about that?"
"I'm the man with the plan, remember? I knew sooner or later PB would find it and get out of there on his own," he answered.
"You're so smart, Preet," Meher gushed.
He blushed, "Thanks Meher."
She then nudged him again, "Look over there, Heer Didi looks a little upset."
Preet smirked and danced Meher closer to where Heer was standing. He cleared his throat making sure she was listening, "Um, Meher? Do you smell something burning?"
She looked at him perplexed by his question, "Uh, no."
"I think someone's burning with jealousy," Preet said loudly. Meher giggled as Heer dropped her arms in surprise as if they had guessed her feelings. Preet snickered and danced Meher away.
Could this be the greatest love of all
I wanna know that you will catch me when I fall
So let me tell you this
Some people wait a lifetime
For a moment like this
"So, part 2, right?" Meher asked as the song belted out its last chorus.
"Yes, onto part 2 of the plan," Preet grinned confidently. They moved over to where Sang was at his DJ station. Preet tilted his head giving him the signal that Sang understood. He grinned as he pushed some buttons and adjusted the volume.
Oh, I can't believe it's happening to me
Some people wait a lifetime
For a moment like this
Ohh! Like This!
Oh, I can't believe it's happening to me
Some people wait a lifetime
For a moment like this
Prem was thankful as the song came to an end and quickly removed his fingers from Sanjana's bare back. Sanjana gave him a thankful smile, "Thanks for the dance Prem."
He nodded, "Promise is a promise," and then hurriedly turned to get off the dance floor as he heard the next slow song start to play; Alison Krauss's "When You Say Nothing At All".
(*I'm not a huge fan of country but the lyrics were really touching and just seemed to fit. I recommend you take a listen...it's a really sweet song* http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_M6a3enqnE&feature=related)
It's amazing how you can speak right to my heart
Without saying a word you can light up the dark
Unfortunately he was stopped by Meher who was smiling sweetly at him. He arched his eyebrow wondering what she wanted.
"Can I have the next dance?" she asked with a pleading look.
Try as I may I could never explain
What I hear when you don't say a thing
Preet came waltzing by with Heer, "Come on, Bhaiya dance with her," then looking at Heer, "Shouldn't he dance with her?" Prem glanced at Heer who gave a slight nod. He turned towards Meher and lifted his hands up in acceptance. Meher smiled as she took his hand and began dancing.
Half way through the song Preet suddenly tapped his brother's shoulder indicating he would like to switch dancing partners. Prem stepped away and allowed Preet to scoop Meher into his arms. Heer and Prem were left standing there watching as their siblings danced away together. Prem glanced over at Heer and motioned with his eyes if she would like to dance with him. She smiled and stepped closer. Prem gently took her hand into his; amazed by the softness of her touch. It was unnerving to him how much his body was reacting to her presence. A tingling sensation spread through him as he felt himself ache for more contact. His arms automatically pulled her closer to him; his hand resting comfortably on her lower back. He gazed into her eyes searching for some answer that his heart was asking.
The feeling of Prem holding her so close was making Heer's head feel faint. The scent of his cologne lingered around her igniting a desire to breathe everything about him in. They way he was looking at her was almost too much for her to handle. Her cheeks flushed a deep crimson. Her mind was devoid of any other thoughts than the moment that was unraveling before her as they glided across the dance floor. The only thing she could hear was their shallow breathing and the beating of each other's hearts. It was like they were the only ones in the room; everything was being drown out.
All day long I can hear people talking out loud
But when you hold me near, you drown out the crowd
Old Mr. Webster* could never define
What's being said between your heart and mine
(*reference to Webster's dictionary*)
Sanjana huffed at the sight of the Prem and Heer dancing so intimately together. She had been sure of her victory over her rival that night. She was able to get Prem to dance which was usually a nearly impossible feat to accomplish. But there he was dancing another song. The wheels in her mind were churning deciding what her next move would be to win over Prem's heart. She felt a sudden tap on her shoulder and turned around to see the smiling face of Kunal. "Come on let's dance," he said taking her hand in his dragging her onto the dance floor before she could protest.
As the song came to a close Heer felt reluctant at letting go of Prem's hand. Prem's eyes flexed at her immediately as if sensing her thoughts conveying his understanding; he gently squeezed her hand. Heer felt the static of his touch and the pressure of Prem's fingers as they curved tightly around her waist sending a frenzy of emotions inside of her. He gave her a tender smile which she returned.
The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There's a truth in your eyes sayin' you'll never leave me
The touch of your hand says you'll catch me if ever I fall
You say it best when you say nothing at all
When the last chord was struck and the song faded into the back ground the lights brighten showing Lalit holding a microphone asking for everyone's attention. Prem turned to see his sister and his brother-in-law standing next to his father. He glanced over at Preet who had the same perplexed look not quite sure why they were there.
"I hope everyone is enjoying themselves tonight. Thank you all for coming. I'm sure you are wondering why I standing here suddenly stopping the celebration. I assure you I'm not kicking you all out, just yet," he said. There was a burst of laughter from the crowd. "No, today we are celebrating Diwali, the Festival of Lights...an occasion spent with our loved ones...our friends and family. It is on this special occasion that I feel the most proud to announce another addition to the Juneja household. My daughter Kulraj and her husband Kiran are expecting their second child! I'm going to be a grandfather again!" An explosion of clapping and cheers erupted at the announcement. Prem and Preet both rushed towards their sister and brother-in-law giving them hugs and congratulating them on the wonderful news.
Preet elbowed Kiran, "So who do you have to thank?"
Kulraj eyed her brother, "This has nothing to do with you."
"Who gave you the time to romanzzze, huh?" Preet smirked twisting hand in a dramatic way. "You're naming the kid after me right...Preet 2.0 or Preeti if it's a girl."
Kiran laughed, "No way. We have got a list of our own and those are not on there."
Preet frowned, "See no one loves me in this family."
"I love you Preet," Prem replied.
He looked at him hopefully, "So you'll name one of your kids after me, right?"
"I love you," Prem said patting his brother's shoulder, "but I'm not naming my kid after you."
"Why don't you just name one of your own after you," Kulraj suggested.
Preet shook his head, "I don't want to have to deal with another me." Everyone erupted in laughter at his comment. The Junejas then made their way to the dance floor to celebrate the new addition to the family.
***************************************************************
Gayatri talked animatedly on the phone her face filled with happiness and smiles. "Don't worry Teji that's what Lalit and I are here for. The girls are doing well. They come and visit often...my Prem and Preet are taking good care of them too. Yes, they are here tonight for the party. Let me go find them so you can wish them." Gayatri walked out of the office holding the cordless phone searching for the Maan sisters. She found them talking to Prem near the refreshment table. "Heer," she called sweetly.
Upon hearing her name Heer immediately stood at attention, "Haa, Auntie?"
Gayatri smiled, "It's your Mom," she said handing the phone to her.
Heer's face brightened at the voice of her mother over the phone, "Mom, Happy Diwali!" Meher eagerly stood by her sister's side waiting to talk to her parents. "Yes, we're fine. Gayatri Auntie and Lalit Uncle have taken really good care of us. No, Ashlesha isn't here. She got caught up in lab. But we're going to her apartment tomorrow. Yes, I'll tell her." Meher tugged Heer's arm causing her to laugh, "Here's Meher Mom," and handed the phone over.
"Mama, Happy Diwali!" she giggled. "Where's Papa? Oh, he went out to get some things for the party you are having? Sounds like you guys are having fun without us." Meher continued to bubbly chat with her mother. Prem smiled and decided to leave to give them more privacy. Just as he turned he heard Meher say his name. "Prem? You want to talk to him?" Meher confirmed with her mother. "Um, okay, yea he's here," and handed him the phone.
He wore a slightly surprised look on his face while Meher shrugged her shoulders. Heer watched with anticipation as he politely answered the phone, "Happy Diwali Auntie!" He chuckled at what was being said to him over the phone. He nodded and turned his back to the girls and began talking away. Heer and Meher arched their eyebrows wondering what was going on that their mother was spending more time talking to Prem than to either one of them; her own flesh and blood. They tried to piece together the bits of conversation they heard but it wasn't making much sense. Prem smiled, "You take care Auntie and please pass my wishes to Uncle. Okay bye," and hung up the phone.
"So what where you two talking about?" Heer asked her face full of suspicious concern.
He grinned, "Oh, nothing really...you know just stuff. Your Mom's really nice."
"Well, we know that," Meher replied.
"I better go put this back in the office," Prem said and quickly walked away leaving the two sisters in anxious thoughts.
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Cameo Appearances by:
Miland Mishra - Kayamath
Praachi Shah - Kayamath
Manav Deshmukh - Pavitra Rishta
Archana Karanjkar - Pavitra Rishta
Pre-Cap:
Chapter 18: Thinking About You
I think this title is pretty self explanatory.
So who's thinking about whom?
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As always Comments greatly welcomed!
---Grace
Writers Corner: Books, Stories & Poems
