DECEPTION….Parts 4 to 6
Part 4
When the limo passed through the gilded gates of the Avanti Resort Hotel, Kripa smiled knowingly, so Mr. Khanna had arranged for a private lunch at his Resort? But the limo passed by the sprawling 3-storied luxury Hotel, and several cottages on its way to an unknown destination. Kripa could not help wondering…where is he taking me? Lagta hai… end of the earth….Resort ke kisi anjaan konay mein le jaa raha hai….she shivered with a strange thrill.
The limo traversed the entire length of the resort and stopped at some unknown spot. The driver opened her door and she stepped out.
She gasped in complete surprise!
The glorious vista spread out in front of her was totally unexpected and thrilling! They were near a cliff, overlooking a deep stratified canyon of Mahabaleshwar Plateau, with the thin sparkling ribbon of Krishna river flowing deep down in the valley. It was a gorgeous viewpoint she had never yet seen in her 23 years in Mahabaleshwar!
How do u like the view? His smooth, heavy voice startled her. She turned around with a sharp intake of breath. He was standing near a picnic table laid out with all kinds of covered dishes while 2 uniformed Resort waiters hovered nearby, ready to serve.
He..hello! …she smiled nervously, her pulse reacting instantly to his presence.
He looked casually debonair in a grey pullover and designer jeans, his wavy hair tousled by the cool March winds. She didn't think it was possible but he looked even handsomer in casual clothes than formal business wear. He seemed very relaxed too as he approached, smiling down at her from his superior height. His piercing eyes studied her from top to bottom, admiring her fashionable full-sleeved top and sleek pants that hugged every curve of her nubile body. She had dressed in modern clothes to prove that Mahabaleshwar girls could be trendy too!
Kripa was only too aware of his slow perusal but swallowed the cottonwool in her throat and smiled bravely: Yeh jagah bahut sundar hai! Are we…are we having a picnic here?
He shrugged with an amused glint in his eyes: I felt a picnic lunch would be best. It would not compromise your reputation, it will be private yet open. Am I right?
She smiled tremulously and nodded: Thank you. That was very thoughtful of you.
He spread out a hand in welcome, directing her to the table: Now shall we?
Kripa followed him to the cloth covered table and they sat down facing each other.
Kripa felt his intent gaze on herself, she averted her eyes towards the scenery. Her heart was beating too hard at his nearness, her cheeks heated up as a side effect. She cursed her weak heart…. Yeh kambakht dil bhi naa, har baar mujhey rusvaa kar deti hai!
He asked her with hostly charm: What would u like to have? Indian or Italian or Chinese?
She looked at him in surprise: Is there a restaurant nearby?
He tilted his head with a smirk: Wo raha, behind that tree…
Kripa turned aside and saw there was a white catering van parked behind a tree. She was impressed…. Wow, in mahashay ka style hi kuchh alag hai! Restaurant nahin jaa sakey toh poora restaurant hi yahan le aaye.
But she masked her awed wonder and acted cool: I would like Italian, please.
Good choice! He smiled and summoned the nearest waiter. He gave some quick instructions, then leaned back with a sigh: So…tell me about yourself, are u a professional singer? Because you sure sound like one?
Kripa shook her head: Nahin, abhi tak toh professional nahin, lekin kisi din mashhoor banney ka sapna zaroor hai!
He leaned forward : Agar chaho toh main help kar sakta hoon? Merey kaafi contacts hain Music Industry mein, I can get u a recording contract.
She looked wide-eyed with surprise, wondering, is he trying to help me, impress me or seduce me? Perhaps a bit of all three.
Her pride and independence rose to the surface: Jee nahin, main khud apni manzil per pahunchna chahti hoon, waisey bhi kayi Music competitions jeet chuki hoon. Aagey bhi chance mil jayegi. But thanks anyway!….she smiled at him defensively.
He studied her thoughtfully with those hypnotic eyes: Talent ke saath khuddari! I like it! Mujhey khuddar log bahut pasand hain.
She blushed at his compliment but opted to ask: Lekin aap kyun mujhey help karna chahtey hain?
His eyes flickered over her flushed cheeks: Heerey ki pehchan johri ko hi hota hai. I think you are a very gifted singer. And u should not let that talent go to waste.
Kripa explained wisely: Meri Maa kehti hain Sangeet ek kalaa hai jiski sadhna karni chahiye, sadhna mein hi uski poornata hai. Aur kalaa ki koi keemat nahin hoti, naa hi karobaar kiya jaata hai.
He smiled enigmatically: Merey Dad kehtey hain agar kisimein koi hunar hai toh usey duniya ke saamney lana chahiye, apney talent ko pradarshit karney se uska samman badhta hai, ghat-ta nahin!
She was impressed, he wasn't just a corporate hotshot but he had deeply entrenched sensibilities and a good upbringing too. For her every rationale, he had a counter-reasoning. He challenged her heart and mind.
She decided to grill him too : Aapkey family Mumbai mein rehtey hain?
His eyes flickered with a brief pain: My Dad is in Khandala, hes partially paralyzed, theek se chal phir nahin saktey, so hes in retirement at our farmhouse.
Her eyes widened: Oh, Im sorry! Aur aapki Maa?
Do saal pehley guzar gayi! From cancer…..Dad had a stroke soon after that.
She sympathized sincerely: Im sorry to hear that. Toh kya aap akeley rehtey hain? Koi bhai behen?
I live with my extended family in our family mansion. Merey Chachajee, Chachi, 2 badey bhai, 2 bhabhiyan aur do pyarey se bhatija aur bhatijee.
Her eyes brightened: Really? Kitney saal ke?
He grinned: 5 saal ki Mili aur 3 saal ka Dipu! Dono Chachu ke favorites!
Kripa chuckled: How cute! Mujhey chhotey bachchey bahut pasand hain!
His amber eyes gleamed with humor: Good to know that you like kids!
She sucked in her breath, suspected he was teasing her. Their eyes met with a sudden flare of attraction and awareness! She bit her lower lip and looked away, her heart hammering audibly again.
Luckily for her, two waiters arrived with their food. At first they served Caesar salad, bread rolls and white wine. Although Kripa never consumed alcohol in front of her parents, she wanted to appear cool and sophisticated. She sipped the white wine delicately and found it tangy and delicious.
Angad observed her humorously, clearly enjoying her attempts to imbibe alcohol without appearing gauche. She was so refreshingly innocent!
She looked up into his watchful eyes: Kya hua? Is anything the matter?
He shook his head blithely: Of course not! Enjoying the wine?
She smiled defensively: Yes, its delicious!
Good! Because I have ordered some chianti for the next course!
Kripa got nervous, yeh mujhey itni sharab kyun pilaa raha hai? What if I get drunk? I better take really small sips.
The next course was appetizers, grilled toast with antipasto, mozarella and basil.
Again they were served a different wine with the antipasto. Kripa refused it this time.
The main course was pasta shells with alfredo sauce and chicken cutlets rollatini. The food was really scrumptious, Angad had clearly appointed his resort's best chefs. Kripa took very small sips of the chianti. She was already feeling light-headed. Angad's magnetic presence also added to the intoxication. She could feel his warm brown eyes observe her throughout the meal.
They conversed lightly during the courses. He asked her about her family: So, you live with your parents? Koi bhai behen?
She shook her head: No, I am an only child.
He nodded : Its tough being the only one, I have felt that void all my life.
She quickly disagreed: But Im not lonely, I have my best friends, Harshini and Prithvi…
Prithvi? He frowned at once.
Haan, Prithvi…… she smiled nonchalantly …..wo bhi mera best friend hai, we all grew up together, hamarey ghar sab ek hi line mein hain….
Angad looked at her innocent smile and realized Prithvi wasn't her boyfriend. She added excitedly: Aur ghar mein meri Dadi bhi hai! Shes the BEST! Main apni har baat Dadi ko batati hoon!
He smirked teasingly: Toh kya aaj ke lunch ke baarey mein bhi Dadi ko bataogi?
Her cheeks turned pink: Kuchh baatein Dadi ko bhi nahin bataa sakti…
He prodded her deliberately: Kyun? Aisi kya khaas baat hai iss mulaqat mein? Jo tum apni Dadi se chhupana chahti ho?
You…you wont understand…Dadi bhi old fashioned hain naa! .she looked away from those amber eyes filled with wicked humor. They were melting her heart with a strange warmth. Shayad isiko kehtey hain dil mein gudgudi hona.
How could she tell him that if Dadi knew, she would insist on making a match between him and her darling granddaughter. In fact, her whole family would be outraged if they knew…that's why it was so devilishly thrilling to have this secret date with him.
Aap Mumbai wapas kab jaa rahey hain? She asked rather breathlessly to change the topic.
Kal subah…..he observed her carefully, satisfied to see her disappointment.
Ohh! ..she chewed her lips….then asked in a small voice: Aap kab wapas aayengey?
He smiled quizzically: Jab tum chaho….
She looked up at him in alarm: Main chahoon…matlab?
Do u want to meet me again? Then I will come back, only for you….he said softly, leaving it open-ended. The ball was now in her court.
She swallowed, her heart pounding with deafening echo: I..I don't know…
He reached out across the table and covered her hand with his palm, its hot touch scorched her skin. She drew in a sharp breath and quickly pulled her hand away.
His intense eyes speared her : So tell me, do u want me to come back next week? Kyunki main aoonga, sirf tumsey milney ke liye…
She gazed into his eyes, trembling at what she saw there…..they were asking her questions she could not answer, at least not yet. She wasn't sure what she felt about him….she was attracted to him powerfully no doubt, but could she trust him? Was he serious about her or was she just a casual fling?
He was astute enough to read her mind and he confessed : I don't have any girlfriends in Mumbai. I have not dated in a long while. But I want to see you again…. will u meet me again next week, same day, same time for lunch?
She licked her lips nervously, his eyes dropped to her moist lips and lingered there with a heated look. Kripa got up from her seat and breathed deeply to slow down her pulse, calm her wild heartbeats.
I…I need to think….she mumbled incoherently and walked over to the cliff, trying to escape his knowing eyes that sought to plunge into her soul and pull out her deepest secrets.
She stood looking down at the deep gorge, so beautiful yet so dangerous! Should she take the plunge? Should she say Yes to Angad ? And let caution be damned?
He came up behind her and stood so close she could feel the heat emanating from his body. She moved forward like a skittish colt. His muscular arm snaked around her waist at once and pulled her back against him. His deep voice growled in rebuke behind her earlobe: What are u doing? Khai mein GIR jaogi!
Kripa trembled like a fern with sensations. His firm hand clasped her stomach, its warmth burning her skin through the top. She closed her eyes in sheer pleasure as every nerve end seemed to be set afire! She had never felt this way before at a man's touch! She leaned back on his broad chest with eyes closed, feeling the heat and hardness of his body surround her. She was falling in love! What a thrilling, frightening sensation! It was like free-falling headlong into a promised paradise!
Haan! She croaked out.
Haan, kya? ….his warm breath on her neck made her shudder again.
Haan, main ….aapsey… milungi….she whispered brokenly.
Good! Because I really want to…..see you again. …his warm lips were almost kissing her neck. She shivered again and almost moaned.
They were standing near the edge of the cliff, Kripa felt like she was standing at the edge of discovery, of love, of desire, of everything that a woman would want to experience.
She wasn't aware how long they stood there, his arm around her waist, her head leaning back on his chest, both breathing rapidly and heavily.
Finally he moved backward, pulling her alongwith him. He released his hold on her waist once they were a few meters away from the edge, then he turned her around to face him. Her eyes were lowered bashfully.
Kripa…he called her name softly. She looked up slowly into his seducing eyes. Kripa…tum bahut khubsoorat ho!
Her eyes lowered again. He asked her : Meri taraf dekho….I want to see it in your eyes ….
She looked up hesitantly : Kya…?
That you like me too….
She could not reply, not yet. He took her delicate hands in his palms and slowly lifted them to his lips. Kripa trembled again as he kissed them one by one, his warm lips lingering on her fingers.
I will return next week to see you. Meet me next Sunday for lunch? His eyes asked her …
She nodded with a shy smile.
Good! That's fixed then! …he pressed firm kisses on both hands and let her go. Ab chalo, dessert letey hain.
He held her arm and led her back to the table. Kripa was in dreamland, she relished every moment of his company, basked in the warm glow of his attentions, revelling secretly in the realization that she was falling in love for the first time! The rest of the glossy afternoon passed by, Kripa was lost in his eyes, his smile, his charming presence. The sun was dipping westwards in the sky, coloring the Ghats.
Suddenly her mobile rang. Kripa snapped out of her dreamy state, it was Harshini, panicking: KRIPA! TU KAHAN HAI, YAAR? I am waiting for u at the movie theatre, ek saath ghar lautna hai naa? Nahin toh saari pol khul jayegi!
Kripa sprang up in consternation: Mujhey abhi ghar jaana hai! I mean Regal theatre jaana hai! Bahut late ho gayi! Mama ko shaq ho jayega!
Angad got up at once, taking command: Don't worry, mera driver tumhey 10 minute mein Regal pahuncha dega!
Thanks! Kripa said breathlessly and ran towards the limo, feeling like Cinderella again rushing home at the stroke of midnight.
Suddenly she stopped in her tracks, she had not thanked him properly. She turned around and yelled: THANK YOU FOR A WONDERFUL LUNCH! HAVE A SAFE TRIP BACK HOME!
He waved at her with a broad smile: THANKS FOR UR COMPANY! SEE U NEXT SUNDAY!
Kripa managed to reach the theatre in time, the limo dropped her off at the corner so nobody would see her getting down from Angad's car. Everything went well and her mother had no clue where she had been.
Later at night, Kripa stood in front of her mirror, pensively studying her reflection. She was quite pretty but not a Miss India, nor a runway model. Why would a millionaire like AK be interested in a small town girl like her? He was so handsome, so charming, suave and sophisticated, plus filthy rich to boot! Why did he desire her? Because she knew he did….she saw it in his eyes.
Is he playing with me? Kahin wo mera dil tod toh nahin dega?
Jo bhi ho, uskey aankhon mein ek kashish hai, koi jadu hai jo mujhey uski ore kheench raha hai. I cannot resist him, Im falling in love! His magnetic aura is pulling me inexorably towards him. I want to be with him, whatever the consequences! I lied to my mother today because of him, but I don't care, I want to see him again…and again…
She hugged herself.....Ohh to be in love for the first time!
The sweet pain of first love was heady like finest wine, it made her giddy with excitement. Yes, I want to meet him, spend time with him. But what about him? Is he serious about me too? Wo mujhey kyun pasand karta hai?
She got her answer the next Sunday. This time Angad was already in the car limo which picked her up behind the schoolgrounds. She was startled to see him inside. He smiled in welcome: Hello Kripa, kaisi ho?
She smiled tremulously: I… Im fine, aap kaisey hain?
Good! He nodded approvingly: I see u dressed warmly today. He slowly scanned her full sleeved pullover and hip-hugging jeans. She flushed and sat down primly. He himself looked incredibly dashing in a posh turtleneck and black jeans with leather jacket.
Her pulse raced with nervous excitement, to be seated alone with him in the intimate confines of the car was too provocative.
She spoke quickly to hide her skittishness: Kya aaj bhi hum outdoor picnic per jaa rahey hain?
He smiled mysteriously: Today we are going to Panchgani, to my guest house.
Panchgani? She was slightly alarmed: Lekin wo toh doosra sheher hai?
He looked highly amused: Its only half an hour's drive. Don't worry, I am not kidnapping you! Main tumhey sahi salamat ghar pahuncha doonga, theek 4 bajey!
She was embarassed at his reply but settled down coolly and enjoyed the ride with him. Every atom in her body was aware of his magnetic presence, his close proximity during the half hour drive to Panchgani but he seemed preoccupied with his iPhone, checking for messages, replying to business mail.
In Panchgani, the car stopped at a sprawling holiday cottage on the outskirts of town. Angad took her inside and then led her out back to a glass domed balcony overlooking the Ghats. Again, he had arranged for a delicious catered lunch, Chinese style this time. Kripa enjoyed the food, the scenic views. She relished his company, his flirtatious wit and charm, but she kept on wondering why he was so eager to meet her, to take her out on lunch dates as far as Panchgani?
He started telling her about the family guesthouse, how he used to visit Panchgani in his childhood with his parents during school holidays. Kripa realized he was rather lonely since his mother's death and father's illness. Perhaps that's why he needed someone to share his life with….
He suddenly became aware of her silence: Kya hua, Kripa? Anything wrong?
She shook her head quickly: Nahin toh, sab theek hai….
He was too astute and guessed the reason: Tum shayad soch rahi ho ke main kyun tumsey milna chahta hoon? Why I want to meet you again and again?
She didn't reply, just looked down awkwardly.
His deep voice sounded sincerely emotional: My Mom had wanted me to marry and settle down. Lekin main taalta raha, kaam ka bahana banata raha! Now I have realized, ek humsafar ke baghair zindagi adhoora reh jaata hai! Jab mainey tumhey pehli baar dekha, well, actually when u marched into my business meeting (his lips twitched humorously) …I was impressed by your spirit, determination, your dedication! Bahut kam log hain jo Angad Khanna ko yun lecture de saktey hain, lekin tumney diya…for the sake of charity work. Sirf tumhari khubsoorati hi nahin, tumhari yehi adaa mujhey bahut pasand aa gayi! I am attracted to you, I want to meet you every week, so we get to know each other. Tell me, do u feel the same way too?
Kripa was thrilled and flattered at his reply. He liked her personality, her spirit. She looked up and nodded shyly: Main bhi….tumsey milna chahti hoon. I …lo….like you too!
He reached out and grasped her soft, delicate hands: Do you love me?
She lied: I …I don't know yet….I am not sure…yeh pyar hai ya…aakarshan.
That's why we have to meet every week. ….he urged her sincerely: Baar baar milney se hi humein pata chalega ke hamarey beech mein jo hai wo sirf akarshan hai ya pyaar. But u cannot deny we are attracted to each other?
She looked down and shivered as his fingers tightened around hers. There was so much power in those hands, he could easily crush her fingers, but she trusted his grip, it was more possessive and persuading than lustful.
Once more he lifted her hands and kissed her fingers. The lingering warmth of his lips thrilled and excited her, made her feel faint with love. But she hid her own feelings till she was sure of his. He did not attempt to kiss her lips that day, neither on their next date.
It wasn't till their 6th date, when they finally confessed they loved each other…. That was when he kissed her on the lips for the first time. They had been parked at a viewpoint. Angad had driven her himself, in his own SUV that day to an overlook near Panchgani. As they cuddled cozily in the car, he told her he loved her and wanted to marry her. She admitted finally that she had loved him from the start, but was waiting for his confession.
He laughed: So u wanted me to say it first? Mujhpar aitbaar nahin hai kya?
She hid her face in his chest: Wo baat nahin, mujhey sharam aati thi.
Aur ab? He lifted her face in his palm.
Her eyes told him what he wanted to know, that she loved him with all the passion of her youthful heart. He joined his lips with hers, its first touch was electrifying! It inflamed her senses, drowning her in a vortex of rising ardor and passion! His lips were firm, yet soft, gentle yet demanding her surrender! She moaned softly as he increased the pressure, her lips parted to give him access to her inner sweetness. After that, everything was blurry with giddy pleasures, with the intoxicating essence of his mouth, the masculine fragrance of his cologne, the touch and texture of his lips and tongue. She was lost in his embrace, melting under his lips, like the parched virgin earth soaks up its first rainfall. He finally let her go with a rueful sigh, he didn't want to lose control and make love to her inside a parked car.
He ran an unsteady hand through tousled hair and grated out tensely: Lets get married!
Her eyes were still closed, lips parted, she was breathing erractically but somehow gasped out: Merey Papa se baat karni hogi….tumhey….
I know…he sighed…..I have to see your father. Agley mahiney mera ek bada Project shuru honay wala hai, I will meet your father formally after that!
They had been meeting every Sunday for two months, almost every week except when Angad had to go on business trips during weekends. Kripa lied to her family to meet her secret suitor, her loyal friend Harshini covered up for her everytime.
But how long can you keep a love affair hidden in a small town like Mahabaleshwar?
Her father's friend spotted her the following Sunday as she was getting out of Angad's car behind the schoolgrounds. He called out after her as she started walking home: Kripa Beti! Tum kahan gayi thi? Wo kiska car tha?
She turned around with a sinking heart: Wo? Wo meri ek saheli thi, mujhey drop off kar rahi thi…
The Uncle looked suspiciously at her: Lekin Beta, wo toh Angad Khanna ka car tha naa? Mainey usey dekha andar, gaadi chalaa raha tha?
Kripa was caught! She was redfaced and muttered some more lies and ran away home. But her escapade was duly reported to her father.
Suryabhan was incensed! He summoned a nervous Kripa that night: YEH MAIN KYA SUN RAHA HOON? TUM ANGAD KHANNA KE SAATH GHOOMNEY GAYI THI?
She looked down in shame, now the whole story would spill out.
BATAAO, JAWAAB DO! KABSEY YEH SAB CHAL RAHA HAI?
Kripa shed tears of guilt, she should have told her parents, now they would lose trust in her forever. Her mother was deeply offended: Kripa, kya tum mujhsey jhooth bolkar jaa rahi thi uss aadmi se milney?
Kripa sobbed: Im sorry, Mama! Im sorry….
Suryabhan was outraged, furious! Like a typical filmy dad, he lectured her for an hour about family honor, maan-maryada, ghar ki izzat, about lying, deceiving her loving mother…. he made her feel guilty as hell.
Kripa sobbed, cried, apologized and finally admitted it: Im sorry, Mama, Im sorry Papa, I love Angad! Hum ek doosrey se bahut pyaar kartey hain. Wo mujhsey shadi karna chahta hai, agley mahiney aayega aapsey milney, rishtey ki baat karney.
WHAT? WO SHADI KARNA CHAHTA HAI? Her parents were stunned, disbelieving! Wo itna ameer aadmi hokar tujhsey shadi karna chahta hai?
Dadi was thrilled to bits: Main jaanti thi! Meri gudiya ke liye ek Rajkumar aayega ekdin! Main naa kehti thi? Ab dekho, mera bhavishya vaani sach ho raha hai!
Gayatri had her doubts: Lekin Maaji, wo Khanna Builders ka maalik, itna ameer aur raees hai, hum uskey saamney kuchh bhi nahin! Wo kyun hamari beti se shadi karega?
Dadi glared at her bahu: Kyun nahin? Meri Kripa mein kya kamee hai? Pari jaisi sundar hai, koyal ki tarah meethi awaaz hai! Wo aadmi Kripa ke pyaar mein pagal ho gaya hai, aur kya? Honi hi chahiye! Meri poti hai hi pyaar ke kaabil! Tu jaa Beti, Angad ko yahan bulaa, hum aaj raat hi ussey baat karengey!
Surya and Gayatri looked at each other in utter shock at the sudden turn of events. Kripa ran to her room and called Angad on the mobile. She cried in distress: Angad! Papa ko hamarey baarey mein sab kuchh pata chal gaya hai! Ab tumhey aakar Papa se baat karni hogi! He does not believe that u want to marry me!
Angad said at once: Main abhi aa raha hoon! Kripa, please don't cry, I will be there in half an hour.
He arrived later that night, met Kripa's parents and Dadi. They were mightily impressed by his sincerity and love for Kripa.
Suryabhan still had his doubts: Agar tumharey Dad, tumharey parivaar ne Kripa ko pasand nahin kiya toh?
Dad will love Kripa, I know that! He will always support my choice. The rest of my family….I will bring them here next month…. Aapsey aur Kripa se milney. Im sure they wont have any objections. Meri choice mein unki koi raye nahin hogi! My decision is final!
And thus, their marriage was fixed. Angad visited his Dad in Khandala and showed him Kripa's photographs. Dilip was delighted, he gave his blessings without any hesitation.
Angad informed his extended family, they came to Mahabaleshwar to meet Kripa and her family. Most of the Khannas liked Kripa, except for catty Mishti and shrewish Damini, both seemed quite unhappy with Angad's wedding for some reason. But they did not dare raise any objections. Angad was the company MD and the heir to the family business. His choice of bride was final! They had no say in it!
The wedding date was fixed for December, to be held in Mumbai. But all the excitement proved detrimental to Dadi's health and she suddenly collapsed from diabetic complications. She was hospitalized, her kidneys were badly damaged….. she was put on dialysis, doctors gave her just 2 months to live.
Her first request to Kripa was : Tu aur Angad jaldi se shadi kar le, nahin toh main teri shadi dekhey bina hi guzar jaungi!
A terribly upset Kripa told Angad about Dadi's last wish. He agreed at once to advance the wedding date to October : Main apni Maa ki aakhri ichha poori nahin kar saka, ab Dadi ki zaroor karoonga!
He also decided the wedding would be held in Mahabaleshwar so Dadi would be able to attend as well since she could not travel at all.
Kripa looked worried: Lekin tumharey Dad? Wo bhi toh beemar hain, kaisey yahan aayengey?
Angad hugged her and kissed her forehead gently: Thanks for thinking about him! Don't worry, Dad will attend our reception in Mumbai. Aur unka aashirwaad hamesha hamarey saath hoga!
Kripa stared into the havan fire and smiled whimsically as she recalled her whirlwind courtship with Angad Khanna, the multi-millionaire Builder who had built his castle of love in her heart, who had literally swept her off her feet.
Today she was getting married to the Man of her dreams, a Prince among men! She was indeed the luckiest girl on earth!
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DECEPTION……PART 5
Kripa looked up from the havan fire and spotted Prithvi amidst the gathering of family and friends. She was really happy to see he had gotten over his sulking fit! She smiled encouragingly at him despite her misgivings over his real feelings towards her. Her first clue was the way he had acted when he heard the news about her and Angad dating. Like the rest of Mahabaleshwar town, he was shocked and incredulous!
Kripa! How can you trust that guy? He might be playing with your emotions!
Kripa crossed her arms angrily: For your kind information, usney mujhey propose kiya aur Papa se mera haath bhi maanga hai! He wants to marry me!
Prithvi had turned pale: WHAT! IMPOSSIBLE! Uskey jaisa aadmi tujhsey shadi kyun karega?
Her face had turned red with outrage: Ok, Now you are insulting me! Mujhmein kya kamee hai? Kya main pyaar ke layak nahin hoon?
Yeh mainey kab kaha? He looked flustered and self-conscious: Everyone loves you here! Lekin wo Mumbai ka business tycoon hai, hes a bloody millionaire! What if he has some girlfriend or something tucked away in Mumbai?
NO! He told me hes single! And he LOVES ME! Whats so shocking about that?
How can u trust him? Kya wo sach keh raha hai? Tu usey kitney dinon se jaanti hai?
She defended Angad passionately: I know enough about him to know that hes genuine! YES, he CAN be trusted! Wo bharosey ke KAABIL HAI! Mainey uskey saath akeley mein ghanton bitaye hain, he never overstepped his boundaries, he is a perfect gentleman! Agar usey kuchh karna hota toh bahut pehley kar sakta tha…
Prithvi looked pained: Im not talking about him taking advantage of you! Shadi ke baad agar usney tera dil tod diya toh? Kya guarantee hai? In ameer logon ka koi bharosa nahin, aaj shadi …parson divorce, unkey liye ek khel jaisa hai!
Kripa's eyes filled up with hurt: Don't be so negative ! Agar Angad waisa hota toh main ussey pyar nahin karti! Give me some credit! Main itni nadaan nahin ke bin sochey samjhey kisi bewafaa ko apna dil de doongi! Angad mujhey dil-o-jaan se chahta hai! He really loves me!
Prithvi saw her tears and felt bad: Im sorry, Kripa, Im just concerned about you! Aakhir main tera dost hoon….hum sabko teri chinta hai…
I know, u all care for me….Kripa wiped her eyes….but have some faith in my judgement too! Angad bahut sincere aur bhalaa aadmi hai, wo kabhie mujhey dhokha nahin dega!
Prithvi didn't say anymore, just watched her unhappily with a hangdog expression.
Kripa had felt slight doubts that day, but her suspicions were confirmed 2 weeks ago, after her Roka.
Prithvi had met her the day after, he looked very agitated and unhappy.
She was concerned: Kya hua, Prithvi! Any problems? Mujhey bataao, kya mein help kar sakti hoon?
He flung his hands in distress: Haan Kripa, only you can HELP ME! Please, meri baat sun! Angad se rishta tod de! He doesn't deserve you!
WHAT! ARE YOU OUT OF UR MIND!
YES, I AM! MAIN TUJHSEY BEHADD PYAR KARTA HOON! MARRY ME INSTEAD!
Kripa almost fell down in shock! KYAAA? ….BUT.. BUT…WE ARE FRIENDS! WE GREW UP TOGETHER!
Isiliye toh! Main terey baghair nahin jee sakta! I love u too much to let you go! Terey bina main yahan nahin reh sakta!
Kripa sank down on the nearest chair in a state of utter disbelief: I don't believe this!
She was totally appalled! She never suspected that Prithvi harbored such feelings about her. She had always regarded him as a dear friend, almost a protective older brother type.
Kripa stammered: Per…per…per, mainey kabhie tumhey uss nazar se dekha hi nahin! You are only a dear friend, almost like a brother…
PLEASE,KRIPA! BHAI kehkar GAALI mat de! Prithvi protested vehemently…. Tu mujhey pyar nahin karti, wo alag baat hai, per mera pyar hum dono ke liye kaafi hai. I will make you very happy! Buss ek baar tu haan keh de! Mujhsey shadi karkey yahin reh jaa, apnon ke paas, apney parivaar ke paas!
Kripa looked at him with wide, angry eyes: Are you out of your mind? Main sirf Angad se pyar karti hoon aur useesey shadi karungi! Period!
Prithvi hung his head down in defeat and slowly left the room. Since that day, Kripa had been rather wary of Prithvi. She just couldn't go back to that friendly camarederie of years past. Last night he had wanted to come to her Bachelorette party, she wondered why….
Nonetheless, she was glad to see him at her havan. Maybe that meant he had accepted her marriage to Angad. She smiled brightly at him, but he didn't smile back. He looked quite forlorn and hopeless. Kripa felt sorry for him. She could not begin to imagine his pain. It must be so terrible to love someone who doesn't love you back!
As soon as the Havan was over, her friends and family surrounded her again with jokes, teasing and excited chatter as she enjoyed her last day with her dear ones.
Kripa went upto Prithvi at the first chance and thanked him for coming.
He gave a terse reply: Main sirf yeh bataney aaya tha, main shaam ko nahin aa sakta! Isiliye subah chala aaya.
Kripa was shocked: Tum meri shadi mein nahin aaogey?
He looked at her with a tortured glance: I cannot do it! Main chaahkar bhi nahin aa sakta! Tujhey kisi aur ka hotay huey nahin dekh sakta! Please forgive me! I will always wish the best for you!
He turned abruptly and left! Harshini came up and asked: Ab isey kya hua? Hes behaving so strangely! Lagta hai usey kisisey ishq ho gaya! Hahaha….
Kripa winced, if only Harshu knew she had hit the nail on the head!
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It was early evening. The Baraat was getting ready to leave Avanti Resort. A royally decked traditional white horse stood patiently on the Hotel lawn, waiting for the bridegroom. All the baraatis were dressed to kill, in expensive clothes and jewelry befitting the guests of Khanna family. A row of black limos waited in line to take them to the bride's house. Kartik had returned from Mumbai that afternoon and stood tall and dashing in a dark sherwani beside his salon-perfect wife Mishti and cute daughter Mili in a maroon lehenga. Nishant and Gauri also stood nearby with their son, Deepu, dressed as the mini dulha in a maroon sherwani and pink turban. All the men wore pink turbans and all the women were dripping with diamonds and zariwork. Damini and Darshan emerged from the Hotel, greeting their assembled guests. Only the bridegroom was missing!
Damini looked around and wailed: YEH KYA? DULHA ABHI TAK NAHIN AAYA? ANGAD KAHAN HAI?
Gauri told her: Mummyjee, wo abhi tak ready nahin huye shayad.
Damini almost had a fit: ABHI TAK TAYYAR NAHIN? GAURI, ABHI JAAKAR USEY BULAKAR LAAO, MAHURAT KA WAQT NIKAL JAYEGA! Humein adhey ghantey mein Sharma ke wahan pahunchna hai.
Gauri nodded obediently and ran inside to summon her tardy devar. She went into their Presidential Suite and saw Angad's bedroom door was open. She peeped inside and was startled. Angad was ready in his wedding sherwani but he sat at the writing table, appying some bandages on his palms.
She went in at once and exclaimed : Yeh kya, Angad, tumharey haathon ko kya hua?
Angad jerked around in surprise and tried tio hide his hands but it was too late! She saw there were numerous cuts and bruises criss-crossing his broad palms.
She was really shocked: Hey Bhagwan, tumharey haath toh buri tarah se ghayal hain! Yeh kaisey hua?
Angad stood up in consternation: Bhabhi, please kisiko mat batanaa! Agar Chachijee ko pataa chala toh…you know how she would react!
Lekin yeh hua kaisey? …Gauri demanded to know.
He looked sheepish: Actually kal raat jab main gaadi se utar raha tha, tab achanak gir gaya, ek jhadi mein girkar dono haath ghayal ho gaye!
Hey Raam! Kitna zyada cut gaye! Laao, main dawai aur band-aid laga deti hoon!
She forcibly took the small bandaids and applied them on his palms. Angad smiled gratefully at her: Thanks Bhabhi!
Lekin Angad, kal raat ya aaj subah tumney bataya kyun nahin? Doctor ko bulaa letey. Agar infection ho gaya toh?
Don't worry, Bhabhi, yeh mamooli zakham hain, antiseptic aur bandaid se kaam ban jayega. Agar sabko batata toh Chachijee phir se Kripa ke manglik honay ki baat karti. And u know I don't like that!
Gauri nodded in consent: Haan, shayad nahin batakar achha hi kiya…. lekin mujhey toh bataa saktey the naa?
Im sorry, aagey se aapko hi bataunga! Angad smiled endearingly.
Gauri finished patching up his wounds, the end result was so neat one could hardly tell he had so many small cuts. The flesh colored bandaids effectively hid his wounds.
Angad thanked her again, she said: Chalo ab neechey, sab besabri se intezaar kar rahey hain, sehra baandhney ka waqt ho gaya! Mummyjee pareshan ho rahi hain!
Yes, lets go now!
Angad stepped out of the Hotel and was greeted vociferously by his friends and family. He looked dashingly handsome and majestic in his golden sherwani. Darshan Uncle hugged him and held him at arm's length: Zara main bhi dekhoon, kaisa lag raha hai mera bhateeja? Waah Bhai, bilkul Rajkumar lag raha hai! Arey Bhaagwaan, iska sehra kahan hai?
Damini made a pained expression and handed over the flowery sehra with golden pagdi. Darshan tied it on Angad's head with great affection, and pleasure. He surveyed the end result with a beaming grin: Ab ban gaya solah aaney Rajkumar! Arey Bhai, sab Photographers kahan hain? Chalo sab Photo nikalo!
The professional photographers as well as local press guys started flashing their bulbs, snapping pictures of the elegant bridegroom and his distinguished family.
Then Darshan urged everyone: Chalo Bhai, ab nikaltey hain! AREY BAND-WALEY KAHAN GAYE? BAJAAO, BHAI BAJAAO!
Nishant signalled the wedding band and they started playing popular wedding songs : Mehendi lagakey rakhna, doli sajakey rakhna….
Darshan led Angad to the waiting horse, Khanna family followed them. Angad sprang up on the horse with easy grace and took the reins. He lifted his sehra and asked Nishant: Chhotey dulha kahan hai?
Gauri laughed and handed Deepu to Nishant who lifted him up to Angad's hands. Angad took him and set him down in front of the horse.
Dipu was rather scared and clung to his Uncle: Chachu, mujhey theek se pakadna!
Angad assured him: Don't worry Dipu, Chachu tumhey kaskar pakdega! Now hold on tight!
Dipu still worried: Ghodi kaategi toh nahin?
Angad laughed: Nahin Beta, ghodi ka mooh toh uss taraf hai, kaisey kaategi?
Mili got jealous as usual: Chachu, mujhey bhi ghodi per baithnaa hai!
Mishti rebuked her at once: MILI! Ladkiyan ghodi per nahin jaati!
Kyun nahin? Mili argued: Ladkiyan sab kar sakti hain, hai naa Chachu?
Angad agreed: That's right! Bhabhi, usey bhi aaney deejiye naa…bachchi hai!
Kartik also smiled: Haan, usey bhi jaaney do, ladki hai toh kya hua? Aajkal ladkiyan space rockets mein jaati hain, toh ghodi per kyun nahin? Chal beti, tu bhi chadh jaa.
He hoisted Mili upto Angad, who now had his hands full with 2 kids in front of him. But he seemed unfazed, he just warned the kids: NO fighting, and listen to Chachu. Hold on tight!
He made them hold the saddle while he put his arms around both of them and held the reins. He seemed quite adept at horse riding as the ghodi cantered at a slow pace down the Hotel driveway. The band led the way with the guests walking elegantly behind it, Angad's horse following the baraatis to the Hotel gate.
Outside the gate, most of the baraatis boarded the limos, how could such elegant people walk all the way, 2 kms to Kripa's house? The wedding procession picked up speed, and they rolled along, up and down the hilly roads of Mahabaleshwar. Local residents lined the streets in some places to witness the baraati of Angad Khanna, their benefactor and Hero!
They nudged each other and commented: Wo dekho, Kripa ki baraat jaa rahi hai! Kitni bhagyashali hai wo! Angad Khanna jaisa pati mila!
They reached Kripa's house in a short while. Sharma family greeted them with the usual pomp and ceremony! Angad descended from the horse and was welcomed by Gayatri with the traditional aarti on a Puja thaali. Then Suryabhan welcomed Darshan with a gift and a garland and all the Khanna family members were similarly greeted with garlands and gifts by Sharma family members. Mili and Deepu were delighted to get their packaged gifts and chocolates!
There was a lot of hugging, greeting and pleasantries exchanged. Khanna clan was quite impressed to see the sprawling house of the Sharmas. Angad had not married a poor girl for sure!
The bridegroom was led inside by Gayatri and her sister in law and seated on a velvet throne. Soon he was surrounded by Kripa's friends and cousins who started teasing and harassing him. Nishant and Kartik took seats on either side of him. Nishant leaned over and mumbled in a conspiratorial manner: Angad, jo kuchh bhi ho, jootey mat utarna, mandap mein jaatey waqt jootey mujhey de dena!
Angad smiled and nodded.
Wedding mahurat had arrived and it was time for Varmala. The bride was brought out to the wedding mandap built inside a big tent in the front lawn. Angad and his family were already there, waiting for her entry. Angad's face was totally covered by the sehra but he lifted it slightly to take a look at his beautiful bride.
If angels had come down to earth, they couldn't have matched her beauty! The rich red brocade lehenga and heavy gold and jadaau jewelry made her look simply gorgeous! A thin red chunni covered her head with a jadau teeka hanging right below. Her cheeks glowed like ripe peach, her kohl lined eyes were lowered in bridal shyness, those ruby red lips glistened with dewy freshness. He held his breath and couldn't look away! Harshini and Kripa's friends giggled and commented at his staring. He got embarassed and lowered his sehra.
Kripa sneaked a look at him from under her chunni, but …his face was covered by the sehra. She was dying to see him again but she would have to wait.
The bride and groom stood facing each other. Gauri handed him a Varmala, the priest instructed him: Ab kanyaa ko varmala pehnaa deejiye!
He placed the garland around her neck easily since he towered above her. Then it was Kripa's turn. She couldn't reach his head, the princely turban made him even taller. She jumped slightly to reach him, everyone started laughing.
Someone commented: Arey Dulhey Raja, zara apna sar toh neecha keejiye! Dulhan bahut chhoti hai!
Kripa took exception to that comment and threw the garland up in the air like a ring toss, it landed perfectly around his neck. Her friends clapped and cheered her clever strategy.
After varmala, they walked together to the red velvet thrones and sat down side by side, waiting for mandap ceremony. Angad lifted his sehra from time to time to talk to his family but otherwise his face was completely covered. Kripa grew frustrated, wondering why he wasn't turning her way. She fidgeted beside him, dying to see his face, yearning to talk to him. But he seemed immersed in his clan members.
She twisted her lips in anger: Badaa aaya…. Mujhey ignore kar raha hai? Aaney do raat ko, main bhi mazaa chakhaungi! Baat bhi nahin karungi ussey!
He seemed to guess her impatience, because the next instant she glanced in his direction, he suddenly turned, lifted his sehra and winked at her. She blushed and looked away, mortified at his sudden flirting. She hoped nobody had noticed it! Her heart fluttered with excitement! He looked so elegant, so princely! She could not wait for her wedding night! When she would be able to look and talk to him freely!
The priest called them to the mandap. They sat down side by side, it was time for kanyadaan. Suryabhan sat on the father's side, Angad held out his palm curled slightly, Kripa placed her right hand in it. She felt a sudden shock as his hand touched hers. His palm seemed rough and different somehow! Before she could think further, a bunch of flowers were placed in her hand and covered by a holy cloth. Then the priest started chanting mantras. She was intensely aware of Angad's hand holding hers, the fire warmed her already flushed cheeks, her heart beat heavily in her chest! It was happening! She was getting married to the man of her dreams!
She was hardly aware how long the wedding chants went on, she was already lost in her romantic dream of holding hands with Angad in the green valleys of Switzerland!
Then it was time for sindoor and mangalsutra. Angad turned towards her, lifted her chunni and teeka, then filled her forehead with sindoor. She closed her eyes blissfully, overcome by emotions, it was such a holy, precious moment! She looked up at him momentarily but his sehra was in place again.
Her chunni and his scarf were tied, they went around the fire in 7 pheras/circles and took their vows to protect and care for each other. That marked the end of the wedding ceremony! They were Mr and Mrs Khanna at last! Angad and Kripa walked ahead to touch the feet of elders.
Dadi was the first to bless them as they bowed to touch her wheelchair-bound feet. She kissed Kripa's forehead and cried with joy: Khush raho, meri bachchi, sadaa suhaagan raho! Doodho nahaao, puto phalo!
She touched Angad's head: Khush raho, beta, hamesha sukhi raho! Meri gudiya ka khayal rakhna! Badi laad pyaar se pali hai wo!
Haan Dadi, of course! Angad mumbled.
They took blessings from Kripa's parents, Angad's Uncle and Aunt, and all elders.
Damini imperiously informed the Sharmas: Bidaai ka mahurat aa gaya hai! Humein chalna chahiye!
They protested and pleaded: Thoda jalpaan toh karkey jaayiye!
Damini would have refused but Darshan stepped forward: Arey Bhai, bidayi 20 minute baad kar lengey, abhi chalo mooh meetha kartey hain! Shadi ka din hai, mooh meetha karna hamara kartavya hai!
The baraatis went inside and were treated to a scrumptious buffet of delicious samosas, kachoris, kathi rolls, laddoos and a dozen different Punjabi and Mughlai dishes.
Satisfied and replete, the Baraatis took leave of the Sharmas.
Kripa got ready for bidaai. Inspite of her blissful joy at becoming Angad's wife, she could not hold back her tears as she hugged her parents, Harshini, Nupur and other friends. They all sobbed in each other's arms copiously while Angad stood apart, giving her time and space to vent.
Kripa's sobs were even louder as she hugged Dadi and kissed her frail cheeks: Dadi, main jaldi wapas aaungi!
Dadi smiled through her own tears: Arey pagli, tu toh kal hi aa rahi hai, pagpheri ke liye! Aur uskey baad bhi, tu ghabraa mat, main tujhey dekhney ke liye hi zinda rahungi! Tu ab khushi khushi apney naye ghar mein jaa, Angad ke saath ghar basaa aur khush reh. Jaa beti, raazi khushi jaa, aansoo mat bahaa!
Kripa wiped her eyes and looked back at Angad. Why didn't he lift his sehra yet? Pata nahin aisey kyun behave kar raha hai? Apna chehra kyun nahin dikha raha?
They got into a flower bedecked limo and started on their way back to the Resort. Kripa sat beside Angad and looked at him constantly. He was sitting apart from her, looking out of his window.
She couldn't stand it anymore: Angad!
He turned towards her: Haan, kaho?
Sab kuchh theek toh hai naa?
Of course! Kyun? Tumhey theek nahin lag raha? There was a mocking laughter in his voice.
She bit her lower lip: Haan, main khush hoon. Lekin tum? Kya tum khush ho?
He chuckled and lifted his sehra for a moment: Tumhey kya lagta hai, main khush nahin hoon? Of course khush hoon! Tum meri patni ban chuki ho, khush toh hona hi hai!
She blushed and looked away. She couldn't see his face clearly inside the dark car but the teasing tone in his deep voice made her pulse race and heart leap with strange anticipation.
When they reached the Hotel, there was a flurry of activities as the newly wedded couple was felicitated by Hotel staff first, then taken to the Reception Hall.
Kripa was officially welcomed into the family by Khanna clan as Damini and Darshan introduced her to the distant relatives and friends of Angad. Many of the guests gave her gifts of cash and jewelry. She passed them on to Gauri who hovered around helpfully.
Mili came up suddenly and sat down on Angad's lap, staring at Kripa thoughtfully: Chachu, kya yeh hamari nayi Chachi hai?
Angad smiled: Haan Beta, yeh tumhari Nayi Chachi hai, bilkul brand new!
Kya main Chachi ke paas baith sakti hoon? She asked Angad.
Chachi se hi poochh lo…..he laughed huskily.
Kripa smiled at the pretty little girl and held out her arms. Mili hopped on to her lap at once! She studied Kripa's face with utter fascination: Chachi, aap bahut sundar kyun ho? Kya aap pari ho?
Kripa laughed: Nahin, main pari nahin, sirf Chachi hoon!
Lekin aap toh merey Mom se bhi sundar ho! …Mili sniffed Kripa's bridal dress: Aapki khushboo kitni achhi hai, kaun si perfume lagayi hai?
Kripa smiled fondly at the precocious girl: Yeh Chanel 5 hai, tumharey Chachu ne gift diya tha….she threw a sideways glance at Angad, who seemed to be listening closely without looking at her.
Really, Chachu? ….Mili was jealous at once: Mujhey bhi Chanel 5 chahiye!
Angad turned to grin at the little girl: Zaroor doonga! Jab tum badi ho jaogi beta, abhi tumhari Mummy allow nahin karegi!
Speak of the devil and she was there! Mishti suddenly came rushing from somewhere and scooped Mili out of Kripa's lap: Yeh kya, MILI? Chachi ko disturb mat karo! Unkey kapdey kharab ho jayengey!
Kripa protested: Rehney deejiye naa, Jeejee! Bahut pyari hai! Mujhey bachchey achhey lagtey hain!
Some female relative tittered: Arey suno suno, bahu ko bachchey pasand hain, phir toh Khanna parivaar ko bahut jald waaris milega!
Kripa blushed with embarassment.
Damini reminded the relative caustically: Kyun Bhabhi? Deepu toh hai naa? Wahi toh khaandan ka pehla pota hai!
Lekin Dilip Bhaisaab ka waaris toh nahin! The other lady shot back at her.
Damini's face darkened with bitterness. She hated the fact that Angad was named Dilip's heir although he was younger than both Kartik and Nishant. Now one more thorn in her life had arrived, Kripa and her future children! The real heirs to Khanna empire inspite of Deepu being the eldest! It was so unfair!
Gauri and Mishti brought out a colored water bowl and made Angad and Kripa hunt for rings in the bowl. Angad won once, Kripa won twice. She knew he had let her win! Some relatives teased and joked, while others gossiped amongst themselves about Mumbai high society. Kripa felt rather lost as Angad also seemed preoccupied all evening.
Mili was fascinated with her new Aunt and stuck to Kripa like glue inspite of her mother's objections. Deepu was too busy playing with his cousins.
The night advanced and all Baraatis retired to their rooms. Angad and Kripa were taken up to the Honeymoon Suite on the top floor with balcony views of the plateau. The luxurious bed was decorated with flower curtains, rose petals strewn on the white sheets. Now that her suhaag raat was actually happening, Kripa felt strange tremors inside her. She was nervous, tense yet filled with anticipation. Angad had been aloof and distant all evening, probably due to the presence of his relatives. She looked forward to being alone with him at last, ask him why he had not returned her calls since last night.
Gauri and Mishti led Kripa to the flower bedecked bed and helped her sit in the center. Gauri handed her a glass of milk and a silver bowl of dry fruits and nuts to place on the bedside table.
Mishti sniggered: Apney husband ko doodh pilaa dena, God knows he would need the strength. Gauri rebuked her softly: Jeejee, aap bhi naa….
Kripa lowered her head bashfully.
Her Jethanis took leave, wishing her a very good night. The door closed, leaving her and Angad alone. She sat on the bed with a palpitating heart and racing pulse, waiting for the moment when her handsome Prince would come to the bed and lift her bridal veil, filmi style…and then he would take her in his arms and….and….her cheeks grew hot, imagining what he would do next.
Several minutes passed, Angad didn't come near her. She got worried and looked up. Angad stood at the farthest window, looking out at the dark, starlit night sky. She wondered what was wrong…why wasn't he coming to her? Was he unhappy with this marriage? But it was he who had pursued her relentlessly, won her heart, proposed to her….what was the matter now? They were married, this was their wedding night, yet he stood aloof, lost in thought! Something was seriously wrong!
She got down from the bed and walked up to him slowly. She stood right behind him, he still didn't turn around!
Angad! She called him softly….Kya baat hai? Kya tum naraaz ho? Koi problem hai?
Angad turned around slowly. In the dim light of the wall sconces, she saw….IT WAS NOT HIM! He looked exactly the same but he wasn't Angad! He was a complete stranger, staring at her with piercing hazel eyes!
She gasped, jolted in shock, stepping backwards!
Shaking with terror, she cried out: KAUN HO TUM? TUM ANGAD NAHIN HO! WHO ARE YOU?
A large hand clamped over her shrieking mouth! He picked her up effortlessly with brawny arms, stifling her mouth and carried her into the large bathroom, closing the door with his foot.
Kripa was dying with terror, almost suffocating under his palm. She struggled madly with frantic breathing, her heart pounded in her chest, frightened out of her wits! Who was this stranger who looked exactly like Angad but wasn't Angad? What was he going to do to her? Why was he taking her to the bathroom?
He held her struggling, twisting body firmly in his grasp, he growled in her ear: Stop moving! Don't make a sound! I will tell you everything! Bilkul awaaz mat karna! Yeh zindagi aur maut ka sawaal hai! Listen to me carefully, then I will let you go! Do u understand?
She nodded silently, her enlarged dark pupils staring at him fearfully.
The stranger didn't relinquish his grip on her body or mouth. He whispered harshly in her ear: Don't make any noises! The Bedroom may be bugged, so I brought you here! I am not Angad! I am ZAIB! Angad's twin brother!
Her eyes widened with surprised doubt, Angad was an only child, he didn't have any brothers! This man was lying!
He laughed softly: Yes, I know, you think I am lying! Don't worry, merey paas saboot hai! Abhi dikhata hoon! Lekin ussey pehley promise me tum khamosh rahogi! This is a matter of life and death! Promise me!
She nodded imperceptibly. He released her mouth but still held her arms.
Angad kahan hai? …she asked in a whisper, trembling violently from shock and fear.
His grim reply destroyed her: Angad hospital mein hai, uska accident ho gaya hai!
The horrible words echoed in her ears….Angad ka accident ho gaya hai…accident ho gaya hai….iska matlab meri shadi uskey bhai se huyi hai…iss admi se… jo kehta hai uska bhai hai…..Angad ka accident ho gayaaa…..
Her head started spinning with the crushing weight of the compounded shocks! The stranger's face faded, blackness descended in her eyelids as she passed out in his arms in a dead faint!
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DECEPTION…..PART 6
She was floating somewhere between a dream and a nightmare! A sudden spray of ice cold water rudely brought her back to her senses!
Kripa opened her eyes with a gasp and shook her head in protest.
She found herself lying in a wicker loveseat on a balcony somewhere, overlooking dark silhouette of the Ghats in the distance.
Where was she? For a few moments she was dazed and confused! Then it all came rushing back to her….her wedding, the bridal chamber, the stranger who looked identical to Angad but wasn't him! ANGAD! She sat up with a panicked jerk! Angad ka accident ho gaya….those terrible words echoed in her entire being. She stood up, tossing the quilt covering her shivering body and turned around. The stranger stood there, glass of icy water in hand, staring at her silently.
ANGAD KAHAN HAI? She shook with fear and tension .
The fake Angad tossed the water and grabbed her. He pushed her down savagely into the loveseat , his hand slammed down on her mouth again. Kripa struggled furiously against his hold but he was strong as a wrestler.
He brought his face very close to hers and growled in warning: Mainey pehley bhi kaha tha, don't make any noise! I don't want anyone to hear you! Our lives depend on this! Angad's life and my life, do you understand?
She didn't reply, could not reply because his heavy palm was blocking her mouth. She stared with wide-eyed panic at his face, his hazel eyes glittered in the pale moonlight like forest fire.
His heavy voice rasped like silk over steel: Now listen to me carefully! Angad had an accident! He is in a hospital in Pune!
Kripa jerked with shock under his palm and tried to speak, he warned her ferociously: CHUP! Don't make a noise, phir sabko pata chal jayega main Angad nahin hoon! Khanna family samajhti hai main Angad hoon! Lekin main uska judwaa bhai hoon!
She mumbled…MMmmmmmnngggg…
Yes, I know! …he smiled bitterly in the semi-dark: Sab jaantey hain Angad Dilip Khanna ka eklauta beta hai, lekin sach toh yeh hai ke uska ek judwaa bhai bhi tha…MAIN, ZAIB…separated at birth by our two mothers!
Kripa gaped with surprise…2 mothers! What did he mean by that?
His strange eyes narrowed knowingly: Ghabraao mat! I will tell you everything! Lekin pehley tumhey vaada karna hoga, u will stay quiet! Not a single loud sound! Understand? Blink if u agree!
Kripa hurriedly blinked twice! His big and heavy palm was almost suffocating her! He let go of her with a sigh and sat down on a wicker chair next to her: Ab jo poochhna hai poochho, lekin dheerey se….keep ur voice down!
Kripa took some gulping breaths to fill her lungs with fresh air, then muttered furiously: Angad kahan hai?
He frowned at her: Mainey bataya toh tha, he is in a hospital in Pune!
I want to see him, right now! …she demanded urgently.
That is not possible! …he informed calmly.
Why not? She shook with indignant fury and anxious fear for Angad's life and stood up. …Main abhi uskey paas jaana chahti hoon!
He sprang up as swift as a leopard and pinned her back in the loveseat. His hands gripped her shoulders cruelly as he grated harshly: CHUPCHAP baithi raho! Don't move! Tum Angad se nahin mil sakti!
Lekin kyun? ….helpless desperation brought angry tears to her eyes….Kyun nahin mil sakti?
Kyunki issey uskey jaan ko khatra hai aur merey jaan ko bhi!
What are u saying? …she squeaked in surprise: Jaan ko khatra kyun hoga?
Kyunki yeh accident nahin, kisiney Angad ko maarney ki koshish kee hai! .
She was so stunned she could not speak for a few moments. His hard face was inches away from hers, she stared up at him in disbelief and shock! Someone tried to kill Angad? What the hell was he talking about?
Haan! …he reiterated: Kisiney Angad ke jaan ki supari dee hai!
Supari? …Kripa looked bewildered, still too much in shock for anything to register.
His lips twisted in mockery: Haan supari! Tumhey pata nahin? Kaisey pata hoga? Little Ms Innocent! Supari ka matlab kisiney Angad ko maarney ke liye Underworld ke aadmi ko paisey diye! You have heard of contract killers, right?
All the blood drained from her face. Underworld? Contract killers? But who would want to kill Angad?
His twin brother seemed to read her mind: Yes, that is the question! Kisney yeh supari dee? Yehi humein pata lagana hoga! Aur uskey liye yeh naatak karna padega! Main Angad bankar rahunga taaki Angad ke dushman ko pata naa chaley ke uska vaar kaamyab hua aur Angad hospital mein hai!
Kripa trembled silently, trying to digest this mindboggling piece of information. Someone had paid to get Angad killed! But who and why? And how did his brother know?
The tortured questions on her mind were mirrored on her face. Zaib released her with a grim look : Tum soch rahi hogi mujhey kaisey pata? Kyunki Angad ne khud mujhey bataya, kal raat ...when he picked me up from Pune Airport!
Pune? Lekin Angad toh Mumbai gaya tha…kaam se? Pune kaisey pahunch gaya? …she was totally confused now.
Zaib sighed and settled down in his chair again: Let me tell u everything from the beginning.
Angad and I were separated at birth…. 2 saal pehley Avantika Mom ki death ho gayi! Ek chhitthi chhod gayi thi apney betey Angad ke naam. Usmein likha tha merey baarey mein, unka doosra beta jisey wo peechhey chhod aayi thi 28 saal pehley….
Jeetey jee Mom apney pati ko merey baarey mein bataa nahin sakee, wo itni sharminda thi, unkey ek jhooth ki vajeh se unka chhota beta hamesha ke liye kho gaya tha. Khair, sach ka pata lagtey hi Angad ne ek detective hire kiya, mujhey dhoondney ke liye. 4 mahiney pehley Bhai ko mera pataa mila. Main Hyderabad mein rehta tha, wahin meri parvarish huyi thi! Bhai came to meet me for the first time! Meri Ammi ne bhi mujhey kuchh nahin bataya tha….main bilkul anjaan tha ke mera aur ek bhai hai, judwaa, mera ek aur family hai Mumbai mein, ek Mom, Dad bhi hain! That my biological father was a famous builder….Angad ne mujhey sab kuchh bataya, Mom ki letter bhi dee! I was reunited with my brother! Angad ne mujhey tumharey baarey mein bhi bataya, wo mujhey hamarey Dad se milaney ke liye bechain tha. Phir hum dono ne taye kiya ke Angad ke shadi ke maukey per main yahan aaunga! Hum dono pehley adla badli karkey sabko ullu banayengey, phir asliyat ka khulasa karengey! Isiliey mainey brown contact lenses khareedey, aur Angad ne merey rang ke lens khareedey. Yahan aakar hum dono apna huliya badalkar tum sabko thagtey aur masti kartey! Angad main ban jaata aur main Angad! Yahi hamara plan tha…
Zaib paused and looked grimly into the distance.
Phir?….Kripa asked breathlessly, straining with tension: Phir kya hua?
Hoga kya? Angad picked me up from Pune Airport yesterday evening! I was flying in from Hyderabad. He took an earlier flight from Mumbai to Pune but he told his Uncle here that he had missed his flight. He wanted to surprise them with my arrival! We met in Pune airport, Angad had rented a black SUV…we started out on the mountaineous highway from Pune to Mahabaleshwar.
About an hour later, we stopped at a little town for petrol and food. When we left that town, then the trouble began! Angad discovered his brakes were not working at all, they were jammed! They were working fine before! He panicked! We both panicked!
Pahadon ka rastaa tha, gaadi out of control thi, Angad ne nasamjhi mein speed badha dee thi! Our SUV screeched around the bends, Angad tried desperately to control the car, turning the steering wheel as fast as he could to deal with the approaching bends. I was trying to help him by shouting instructions and warning him about next bend. Like that, we managed to drive for 10-15 Kms. Ek bada saa gap aaya jahan road seedha tha, tabhi Angad ne mujhey bataya …someone wanted him dead! Mainey poochha, tumhey kaisey pata?
Usney kaha, usey khabar mili hai… from a trusted source that somebody was out for his blood! He was sure this was an attempt to kill him before his wedding day! He said while we were having dinner, someone must have tampered with the brakes!
Lekin kaun? I shouted.
He yelled: I don't know, might be Kartik, he dislikes me intensely ever since Dad made me CEO! It may be my business rival Raheja! Or some other builder who wants my contracts…
Ab hum kya karengey? How will we get out of this alive? I yelled above the screeching tires.
You have to jump! …Angad told me!
WHAT!!!?? I WONT JUMP WITHOUT YOU! I told him!
But Angad was frantic: Zaib, you HAVE TO JUMP! TUJHEY MERI KASAM! BOTH OF US CANNOT DIE! TUJHEY ZINDA REHNA PADEGA!
THEN YOU JUMP!
I CANNOT! I AM ON THE RAVINE SIDE! IF I JUMP I WILL FALL RIGHT IN!
MOVE THE CAR TO THE MOUNTAIN SIDE! ...I told him.
Angad tried to swerve the car to the mountain wall but right at that moment, a big truck suddenly appeared on the opposite lane! Angad swerved again to avoid a frontal collision! The truck missed us narrowly and our van started teetering towards the edge, but Angad managed to bring it back on track! He spun the wheel furiously, shouting: JUMP! ZAIB, JUMP! YOU HAVE TO LIVE!
MAIN TUMHEY AKELA NAHIN CHHODUNGA!
Angad yelled: I WILL ALSO JUMP AFTER YOU !
THEN WE BOTH JUMP TOGETHER!
THAT'S NOT POSSIBLE! YOU JUMP ON MOUNTAIN SIDE, THEN I WILL TURN THE CAR AROUND AND TRY TO JUMP OUT ON THAT SIDE TOO!
I opened my door and prepared to jump out. Angad yelled: AGAR MUJHEY KUCHH HO GAYA TOH KRIPA KA KHAYAL RAKHNA, AUR DAD SE ZAROOR MILNA!
TUMHEY KUCHH NAHIN HOGA, BHAI! YOU JUMP OUT TOO!
YES I WILL! NOW JUMP, ABHI, JUMP!
I jumped down and rolled on the rough ground for several meters! My hands were badly scratched and bruised, my pants torn! Then I heard a huge crash and boom! I ran around the next bend, the SUV had crashed down the mountainside and hurtled at breakneck speed into the deep ravine, bursting into flames! Angad was nowhere in sight! He had not been able to jump out! I was shocked, horrified! Angad didn't make it! He was in the car!
Inspite of the dark night and precipitous gorge, I clambered down the rockface. It took me half an hour to reach the burning wreck! Nothing could have survived that inferno! I was collapsing right there with shock and grief, when I heard a feeble moan!
Then I spotted Angad! He was lying on a bed of rocks! He had been thrown off the wreckage on the way down and landed there! His spine was broken! He couldn't move! He was bleeding all over, burned in a few places from exploding car pieces. I rushed to him and cried at his condition, I had no idea who to call or contact! Angad could still speak, he croaked: Pocket…mobile…
I groped in his pant pocket and found his mobile!
Bhai, kisko call karoon? Kaun hamari madad karega?
Shabbir! Call …..Shabbir….he managed to gasp before he lost consciousness!
I found Shabbir's number in his contact list and called him, told him what had happened. Shabbir understood at once, it turned out HE was the one who had warned Angad that someone was after his life. He sent a helicopter to pick us up! It flew us to Pune! Angad was barely breathing but he had enormous will power! Before they wheeled him into the OT for surgery, he grabbed my hand and gasped: Tu Mahabaleshwar jaa, Kripa se shadi kar le!
I was shocked: What are u saying, Bhai? How can I marry your fiancee?
He insisted: Tujhey Kripa se shadi karni hogi! Tu Angad ban jaa, don't tell anyone who u are, then they will try to kill you too!
Lekin Bhai, main Angad banney se kya faida hoga? They will try to kill me anyway.
Angad spoke weakly: Terey Angad banney se kaatil darr jayega ke uska vaar naakamyab raha! Aur tu vaada kar, tu kisiko nahin batayega, ke tu kaun hai….you have to be Angad and find out who is the killer….who is the mastermind….promise me! Tu shadi karega?
I saw he was sinking rapidly from his injuries, yet talking desperately. I couldn't refuse him anymore! His plan made sense! Isiliye main Angad ban gaya! Merey pocket mein brown contacts the, mainey laga liya….hamari pichhli mulaqaton mein aur emails ke zariye….Angad ne mujhey tumharey baarey mein, apney family ke baarey mein sab kuchh bataya tha, in details, sabki tasveer dikhayi thi! That's why it wasn't so hard to fool everybody!
Angad ko hospital OT mein chhodkar main helicopter se Mahabaleshwar pahuncha! Aur kal raat hi Resort pahunch gaya….Angad bankar…sabki aankhon mein dhool jhonka, tumsey shadi kee Angad bankar…lekin suhaag raat per tumhey batana hi pada! Aakhir tumsey kaisey chhupata ke main Angad nahin hoon?
He tossed her a quizzical look. She stared at him, numb, frozen, statue-like with shock! Her mind couldn't comprehend the enormity of the past 24 hours!
Her heart cried out to see Angad at once, yet her feet were bound by a fear of endangering his life again! Her head spun with horrified questions….who tried to kill Angad? Was it really Kartik Bhaiyya? Had he given the supari?
She was riven with worry and tension, how was Angad? Did he survive the operation? Was he going to be alright? Tears threatened to spill over ..
She whispered a tearful plea to the hard-faced stranger : Please, itna toh bataa do, kya Angad ka operation kamyaab raha? Wo ab kaisa hai?
Zaib nodded: Haan, aaj subah mujhey khabar mili, Angad pulled through! But he needs more complicated, advanced spinal surgery! He is being air-lifted to Switzerland tomorrow as soon as his condition is more stable!
Switzerland? Kripa sat up, startled! What an irony that Angad was going to the same place where they were supposed to have their honeymoon after 4 days!
Haan, Switzerland, they have the best treatment for spinal injuries! …Zaib half-smiled: Mujhey pata hai, tum aur Angad wahan honeymoon ke liye jaaney waley the. Hum bhi wahan jayengey, main Angad bankar aur tum meri biwi bankar!
Kripa's heart sank in sudden realization! She was this stranger's wife! She had married Angad's brother instead! Ohh, what a terrible mishap!
Zaib's lips twisted again: Don't worry! Angad ke theek hotay hi main tumhey talaaq de doonga aur tum wahin Switzerland mein Angad se shadi kar lena! Deal?
Kripa nodded silently.
Good! Lekin tab tak tumhey yeh naatak bahut chalaaki se nibhana padega! Kisiko bhi bilkul shaq nahin hona chahiye ke main Angad nahin hoon! We have to act like a newly married couple in front of everyone, chahey wo Khanna parivaar ho ya Sharma parivaar ya tumhari Dadi! Yaad rahey, kisiko kaan-o-kaan khabar naa ho ke hamari shadi normal nahin….. ya iss baat ki bhanak naa padey ke hum dono kiss tension mein hain! Yahi tumhari pareeksha ki ghadi hai! Do it for Angad's sake! Usey bachana hai, uskey kaatil ka parda-phaash karna hai!
Kripa drew a deep breath: Theek hai! Main tayyar hoon! I will do anything to save Angad and expose his enemy! Main usey aisi sazaa doongi ke…..her dark eyes burned with passion of hatred! If that enemy had been standing before her, she would have stabbed him with the fruit knife from the honeymoon suite! She really would!
She had never felt such fury, such wrath and such anxiety before! Her whole world had come crashing down, all her dreams of a perfect wedding and honeymoon with Angad had shattered, but from the wreck she had emerged a stronger woman who would go to any lengths to protect the man she loved!
Zaib smiled approvingly: Good! Very good! Mujhey tumsey yahi ummeed thi! Angad ne theek hi kaha tha, tum lakhon mein ek ho! Aaj se, abhi se hamara naatak shuru hota hai! Ab hum kamrey ke andar jayengey aur chupchap so jayengey!
Kripa looked nervous and embarassed, he raised his hand: Wait, don't worry, I wont touch you! Hamarey beech mein takiya hoga. Lekin hum ek hi bistar per soyengey! Aur ek baat ka dhyaan rahey, kamrey ke andar kahin bhi camera ya recorder ho sakta hai! Kaatil ka kuchh bharosa nahin! Wo yeh jaanney ki koshish karega ke Angad bach kaisey gaya? That's why we cannot talk about this matter inside the room! Bilkul nahin! Samjhi?
Haan, main samajh gayi! ….Kripa gulped nervously yet faced him bravely!
Good! Then lets go! Mujhey neend aa rahi hai!…Zaib got up and strode towards the room.
Kripa called out from behind: Zaib! Mujhey wo chitthi dogey? Jo Mom ne likha tha, jismein tum dono ke janam ki kahani hai?
Zaib turned around with a mocking smile: Of course! You should know the dirty little secret of Khanna family! Aakhir ab tum iss parivaar ka hissa ho! I am the skeleton in their closet….main wo haqeeqat hoon jissey Dad ko aur purey parivaar ko bahut bada jhatka lagega!
Yeh lo! ….he reached inside his sherwani and fished out a long envelope. He handed it to her and instructed: Kamrey ke andar jaakar chupchap so jaana, phir baad mein bedside lamp jalakar padhna! But don't ask me any questions! Agar koi sawaal tumhey paagal kar de toh mujhsey kehna bathroom jaana hai, main samajh jaunga, I will follow u there! I have checked the bathroom, there are no hidden mics or cameras there!
Kripa turned pale with all the secrecy and hush-hush plans but she understood why Zaib was being extra-cautious! She nodded in compliance.
Zaib suddenly came near her, put his hefty arm around her shoulder.
She stiffened at once at his alien touch! Then she twisted her shoulders to shove off his hand...
He warned her in a low baritone: Aur ek baat gaur se suno! KAL…Jab main tumhey haath lagaunga…logon ke saamney, tum simat mat jaana! Act natural! Don't recoil from my touch! Pretend that I am really Angad, we are happily married and you have just spent a wonderful night with me! Is that Clear?
Kripa turned red with embarassment and tried to relax in his possessive hold. She acquiesced in a thin voice: Haan, theek hai!
Toh ab chalo, andar chalkey so jaatey hain!
He led her inside the bridal chamber again and closed the balcony door. Still holding her tightly (for the benefit of any hidden camera), he walked her to the bed and made her lie down on one side. Then he switched off the main lights, drew the comforter over both of them. Kripa lay stiffly, her heart palpitating nervously! What was he going to do next?
Under the covers, his hands moved surreptitiously as he placed 2 divider pillows between them. Kripa sighed with relief! Zaib was true to his word! He wasn't going to touch her or demand his conjugal rights! He was giving her the respect of his brother's betrothed.
She relaxed gradually, holding the secret of the twins' birth tightly in her hand. A little later, she heard Zaib snoring gently!
Half an hour later, she slid out of bed and tiptoed to the bathroom, the envelope hidden in the heavy zari folds of her bridal dress!
Once inside the bathroom, she sat down on the side of the bathtub and opened the envelope with trembling fingers.
She started reading Avantika Mom's dying confession with bated breath and stunned astonishment! Zaib was right! He was the skeleton in Khanna family closet! The most shocking secret of how Avantika and her cousin sister Naina had deceived Dilip Khanna 28 years ago!
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Bigg Boss 19
Itti Si Khushi Sab TV
Cricket
