The cards in Destiny's hands..
This story I wanted write for a long now after seeing jai in such a bad light in ks. This is starting from the scene where Sahil take the kid to Rano in hospital telling her the doctors saved the child. Bani and jai behind her is seeing it through the window. Tony is a good person in this story.
Bani ran crying from the window side unable to express her pain and went stood near the bench a little away from where Jai was standing. Karuna came out and followed her and consoled her… Jai was lost in thoughts.. he thought where there is love there is no family and where there is family there is no love… he didn't even notice Bani's moving away from him.
One hand tapped on his shoulder, he turned slowly waking up from the thoughts. Pushkar gave him an envelope. Jai looked at him with a questioning eye. He didn't open the cover but looked down at it in a detached way.
Pushkar: Jai Sir, it is the DNA report, it came too late, and this is a copy for you.
Jai: Why do you give me this?
Every one, Bani, Karuna turned to them, Massi, Aditya, Ranveer, Rashi all came to door from the room hearing Pushkar. Pushkar still calm looked at him.
Pushkar: Sir, you have not done anything that night. I am the father of the child. After showing the report I questioned Pia, then she admitted it was only a set up for taking video, but nothing happened between you. She said you passed out in her room after giving her the divorce papers Bani sent to you signed.
Jai: (still without any expression) I know what is in this report.
Pushkar: what? You knew it? When?
Jai: the lab has given instructions from the doctor as per my request to send a copy of it to my email as I know Pia will somehow tamper the original report. They called me two weeks back when the report was ready and sent a mail also.
Pushkar: but sir, you didn't tell anyone.
Jai with a sarcastic frown on his face and in a raging voice…
Jai: telling who… whose is there I should tell this… is there any difference it going to make?
Pushkar: but…
Jai: Pushkar, I know the result… I know it came to this hospital the same day but she somehow got it deleted from the computer here… she wouldn't have any idea that I can think of an option to see it come out right… the delay happened because they done the test twice… after missing the report….
Jai walked out. Bani was as if she got a hit on her head, stumbled to the bench behind her clutching to its back. Massi was shocked to the root unable even to make noise… she leaned to the walls… Karuna ran behind Jai who was walking past every one to the exit..
Karuna: Jai, Jai… stop, wait a minute Jai, please
She got hold of his hand and stopped him forcefully. She is the only one who seems to be able to approach him. He turned to her with a questioning look.
Karuna: where are you going alone, it is too late now, and it is dangerous for you to go out alone now, don't you know that…
Jai: dangerous for me.. what is left with me to save… do I have a life to save… or anything worthy for that matter to save.. Karuna, I don't care a damn.. you heard me..
He turned abruptly and started to move, but SP Ganesh reached him with another officer in uniform.
SP: Jai, you are right… that girl Abhilasha, she is faking… her real name is Maya.. she is actually married to someone called a Sekhar and staying a little away from here. That guy came as her father is a full time drunkard who is working for some boss, but he didn't see the boss till now only was receiving money for the job he do… they are all in now..
Everyone shocked to hear what they heard now.. Rashi's face gone white.. Jai send away SP and the other man and turned to Rashi who was by this time reached near him followed by others…
Jai: why do you want your love to your husband should be paid back through a demand? Do you have any idea to where you were pushing him just for loving you unconditionally? Rashi, love is not a thing you can make in others… even if Ranveer gets the best woman in the world for his wife, does his love for you die? Can you change his heart? Who are you to demand the person you love to live a life as you wish after you gone? Is it fair? Live in the present with love giving as much as love you can give… every one is unsure about their tomorrow just as you do.. so we may not get a chance to love or enjoy love in the tomorrows..
By telling this he turned and walked out. Rashi went to Ranveer and hugged him by his hands. He had a sigh of relief on his face.
Massi: I killed him by my hand.. hey, Bhagvan, how am I going to live with this paap rest of my life? She sat in the bench near Bani keeping her head in her palms. Everyone was standing unable to react looking behind Jai.
Jai was fuming with anger. He dismissed the driver who came to him offering to take him home. He told him his masters are inside and he has to wait here.. the poor chap who stood there with tears in his eyes.. he knew Jai Walia for years now …
Jai entered his guest house where he was staying for long after the day in which all those drama taken place. He sat in the sofa with his legs up in the small tea table in front of him. He closed his eyes and stretched his head back. The scenes where Massi perform his shradd, Bani's hands are forcefully taken by Tarun… everything is appearing one by one. He scrolled his head on the sofa in desperation as to wipe out each things popping up in his mind.
Nachiket entered silently into Jai's house and saw his brother's disturbances for a while. He stood in the doorway watching him. He could understand what his brother is going through now. He was trying hard to find a way to help Jai to come out of the problem. But it seems Jai had already mentally retired from the life and nothing affects him now. He become hard and rough.
Nachiket walked in slowly and sat next to Jai and put a hand on his forehead. In fact he is the only one other than Aditya and Karuna standing with him all through this. He was continuously pressing Jai to proceed with an enquiry from the beginning. Somehow he managed to get signed a petition from him to Dubai police to enquire about the whole thing happened in the party…
Jai opened his eyes and saw Nachiket. A small pale smile appeared in his lips. He patted his younger one. Nachiket pulled him to a straight position and gave him a package in his hands. Jai looked at this and left a sigh.
Nachiket: bhaiya, I got this just an hour back, I went to hospital and came to know you gone out. So I imagined you will be here. I have given a copy of this to Aditya also.
Jai opened the brown package. A CD, and an envelope. He opened the envelope and start reading it. There was no expression on his face. Nachiket was wondering how a man could die so hard a death each minute he lives. He looked at Jai who is still reading. When he finished he folded the paper back into the envelope and looked at his brother's face.
Jai: so, they caught him finally..
Nachiket got up, took the CD from his hands and put in the player. It was the original record of the night right from the party to the recorded video of the night in Pia's room. He was giving the papers in his hands to Pia. She looked at it with a smile. Then she started to all over him. He was standing there with a hand holding his forehead. Then he once held her back as if he is going to fell down. She put his other hand also around her and started her antics.. but he passed out on her shoulder… slipping down… a sound "get the old man to bed" a woman's voice, must be Pia's… Jai's face stretched with disgust… then two other hands, back of a man who came to help her to take him to the bed. They put him over the blanket. She slipped inside the blanket and the man put Jai's hand over her by forcibly turning him to the side. There were the flashes many times.
Jai murmured "old man" and grit his teeth.
Nachiket: this is what I told you she doesn't deserve concern… you have to clean your name… atleast for the family… you are going to have baby soon… you should remember his future… except few people none believe you did such a thing, even the press decided not to publish anything on the matter as if they were sure that you didn't do it.
Jai: (shaking his head violently) what is the difference now… those who should think twice has executed me even without a trial… now anything left to lose… they knows me for ages… leave Bani, she knows me only for an year… but what about others..
Nachiket: Bhaiya, it is not their mistake… you see… what they should think when you yourself shouted "mera bacha".. haan? Tell me. Do they need anything more to be explained?
Jai sat silently. He leaned forward keeping his hands on his knees.
Nachiket: moreover there is lots of things Pia did behind you to make sure Bani Bhabi believe you really love her.
Jai looked at him sharply..
Jai: what you mean?
Nachiket: haan, there was some scenes Pia created to make Bhabi misunderstand you.
Nachiket explained how Pia acted with the paid gardeners in this house when Bani and Tarun visited for first time, getting calls and says it is Mr.Walia, he can't spend a moment without me now etc, where ever Bhabi goes someone from the house is giving information, Pia reaches there and acts as if she is getting calls from you in front of them… then he explained how Pia received flowers and got the information of a table b ooking in there saying booking for her by Mr.Walia etc… Jai was sitting with such a shock.. he thought there is no wonder Bani could not still come to believe him. Nachiket told I talked to Tarun about this just to see why he is pressing Bhabi for the divorce. Jai gritted his teeth hearing the name of Tarun.
Nachiket: Bhaiya, the fate had played on our back. Pia will be arrested today. I have given the complaint to the police on behalf of you. I don't want to see you as a shattered man. Dubai police had informed our police about the report.. must have sent the report already and deported the man who recorded the video.
He got up and took the CD out and put it back into it cover and kept in the suitcase which lying on the tea table.
He gets call, he shouted back "what?" Jai looked at him … "ohhhh, noooooo"… he sat there on the sofa… Jai was so stunned…
Jai: what is it? Is everything alright?
Nachiket: poor Rano, how much she should take I don't know, she was suffering that man's manhandling and tortures all along for months now, just for the family's sake she kept quiet… that idiot… how on earth he took that baby out of incubator . the baby had developed breathing difficulties and become blue… and it is… (he stopped there… keeping his head in his hand… ) I don't know what is happening in this family… what the hell was he doing… how can a human can do it to his own child. .For God sake… (he was shouting in rage…as Jai was sitting there with shocked face. He knew what Sahil was upto… he said that to Nachiket in a low voice… Nachiket turned out to be a real roaring lion bashing at Sahil…)
Nachiket: so he is really inherited something from … (he stopped there.. )
Jai: yes, he inherited it from his mother… the gene is working well with him..
Nachiket: Bani mami fainted and taken to ICU… don't you want to go and see…
Jai showed his hands…
Jai: she is happy without me… it is her family whom she likes to be with.. I have nothing to do there and I am none to do anything there.. I will call the doctor..
Jai got up and took his phone from his pocket and called the doctor, talked for a few minutes… he again sat there… jai got a call from Aditya…
Jai: Aditya, the whole family is there… I have nothing to do with it.. you can proceed with things, no need to wait for… no I am not coming… (silence) see her mother is there, her family there, she is happy with them… (he cut the phone… with disgust)
Nachiket: Bhaiya… whatever it is, it is a death… and Rano is like a daughter to you… you should not become like Sahil…
Hearing the name Sahil, Jai's blood boiled… he called Aditya and told him what Sahil did. As stunned Nachiket looking, even before he could say anything Jai had told it.
Jai: Aditya, you want a son like that… well I am out of that family… but you are still living there… do you want to keep a killer inside your house… call Ganesh and catch the doctor and send him away… he doesn't deserve your concern… when you can kill me why do you keep a baby killer inside… do it or if I see him he will die in my hands..
Aditya was shocked and literally shouted out "NOOOOOOOOOOO"
He was screaming on top of his voice… every one was standing and looking at him with stunned expression .. he went out and called someone… stood there as if waiting for someone to come…. Sahil was still sitting in with Rano pretending to be crying with her… others were standing here and there…
Bani was in sedation… SP Ganesh came, he went straight inside to the doctors room… he took the doctor with him and went inside the room where Rano is lying… weeping something… murmuring something in between… she couldn't believe what had hit her in such short time… she was prepared to live with handicapped child… she shocked to see the inspector and the doctor who was taken by his hand by the police… SP told her that he is arresting Sahil and explained what really happened.. she shouted … closing her two ears with her hands… she hit her head on the wall behind… crying uncontrollably.. Aditya came and held her tightly….. Rashi was unable to react.. Aditya looked at Karuna for help… his face was red as he went to Sahil… he stood there for a second, Sahil looked down, in no time Aditya's hand went up and down many times that Sahil staggered back to the floor… SP stopped Aditya…
Aditya: I thought even though you are lazy you will not be a devil like this… how come you are my blood… it was better for me to kill you when I understood you are playing with your mom to destroy Jai… but then I stopped it from behind… thought things will be OK… but you have shown the real you… if you come in front of me any time you will be dead… I disown you as my son… I have nothing to do with you… I would rather live happily with mentally retarded child than having someone like you… Inspector please take him… I want to see the justice done to my daughter Rano… Sahil, I will make sure you will get the punishment if I alive on the face of this earth…
He turned to Rano, sat by her… by now she was sitting with a cold face… her emotions are dead… you can see an emptiness in her eyes… staring into the void in front of her eyes… hugged herself …
Karuna told her to lie down as her stitches will be hurt… as an obedient child she slid inside the sheet and closed her eyes… Sahil was taken. away. Aditya was totally shattered…
Aditya: denying support to someone who stood by him in his bad time God had really showed me what I deserved… but Rano… what she did to go through all these… Hey, Bhagvan, what is going on in this family… he kept his head touching to the wall and helplessly stood there…
Bani came to Rano's room after a while.. as soon as she got up from sedation she insisted to see her… she sat on the bed side near her sisters head… silently she kept Rano's head on her lap… hugged her tightly… it was such scene that even Ranveer wept openly and sneaked out of the room unable to see it… there was no words said between the sisters… Rano cuddled into her sisters hands… closing her eyes… wrapped her around her sisters hands… Karuna kept a pillow behind Bani… she got it from the nurse who brought Bani in.. she requested the nurse to allow Bani to sit there.... after a while Rano released Bani and looked up to her… and moved out of her lap silently… as if to asking her di to go to her room….
It is about a month now… after lot of pressure from Karuna , concerned about the health of Rashi, he returned to Walia House… but refused to receive any kind of treats he was getting in his old good days… he lived in the study… spent most of the time in when he is there… he came sat in the dining table very rarely… morning he will go out of the house even before everyone gets up… even without a tea… never came for lunch… had dinner from outside most of the time or had dinner very late after others finished… he took his dress to laundry by himself.. lived there as a paying guest… he dismissed everyone who came with offers…
A month passed… Rano started to walk around in the house… though she looked like the ghost of her own self… mostly in silence… without makeup… no ornaments… not even a single stud in her ears… she is the only one Jai cared to go near and ask something other than occasional talks with Rashi… Everyday he made it a point to go to her room and ask something… brought some books for her to read… and some cassettes and cds of latest songs… Karuna as usual is his confident… but they talk always outside the home…
Bani didn't know what to do. She thought how can I make him understand what I felt… why I am getting this punishment..? Rano's condition also made her more weak.. Aditya always made sure that Rano is keeping well… he seems to have dedicated his life for her.. taking her out… checking her medicines…
Massi told Aditya that if Jai is behaving like this to Bani she will broken into pieces soon… it is none's mistake that things happened like this.. at least Jai should forgive her…she asked him to talk to Jai… he told her he will try but don't expect a miracle will happen…
Jai left home as usual early in the morning… he got to his guest house to have bath, to get changed.. he gave his dress to the watch man who get his dress washed by his wife… he made some sandwiches or something for breakfast.. then will go to office… only Nachiket comes and do something for him.. he doesn't want to hurt his little brother whom he got just a few months back into his life… Karuna will come but he dismissed her doing anything for him…
Jai was entering into the Walia house.. it was a Sunday… around 11:00 in the morning every one was sitting in the main hall.. his phone rang.. he attended it and said "OK.. I am coming… just make the needful…" and cut the phone…
He called Ranveer…
Jai: Ranveer, you and Rashi get ready.. I told you I have arranged her treatment in AIMS where my friend is working.. he had called yesterday confirming the doctors specialized in this is visiting them day after tomorrow… so they wanted Rashi there… Mis.Astha had some doubts in this case, and she had informed him… luckily he is my best friend… he recognized Rashi and contacted me.. and arranged his friends in London who handled some similar cases before… so get ready .. Flight is at 2.00 we should leave to airport… (he turned to Karuna who was by this time came near him) Karuna you promised you will also come… Rashi needs you..
Aditya: how long you should be in Delhi Jai?
Jai: mostly by two weeks they can tell us how long they need Rashi there… that is what I know..
Aditya: (with a hesitance ) about the money.. how you…
Jai: (with a sarcastic smile)… you think Jai Walia is dead for those outside this house..
Aditya taken back as if he got a slap… he went to Jai… with a pleading look…
Aditya: Jai.. please.. don't behave like this… everything is over… we are not as good as you… very normal people… look at Massi… what her or our eyes seen.. how can we imagine our own eyes will cheat us… our own ears will cheat us.. so please… please take Bani also with you… she needs you… she carries your baby…
Jai looked like raging bull hearing that his baby…turned to all and looked at her sarcastically….
Jai: I see, is it my baby… but she said it is her baby… and clearly told me "mera bacha"… when it become again my baby… it is like monsoon change.. I didn't know it… (turning again to Aditya) see Aditya, I don't have time for this now.. I don't care a damn.. if she wants to live as my wife she can as long as she wish… I will not throw her out.. but I am done with this marriage and baby … everything… everything is over for me… I am a dead person for this family… and it will remain as it is…
(Bani stood there as a dead. She has already realized that it is over for her.. she stood there unable even to cry staring at the man who is her life and dream. Massi came forward… with her folding hands )
Massi: Beta, please forgive me… I really didn't know how to take that pain then… it was so clear in front of our eyes… (she spread her saree pallavu in front of Jai and kneeled down ) Please forgive Bani atleast… she had done anything wrong… I will take punishment from you, but please don't do this to her…
Jai stepped back … took her by her shoulder.. but still with the hard tone…
Jai: Massi, please don't do such things again in front of me… I am a person who has no feelings left with… I am not God to punish any one… I am simply a human and felt like human… I can understand what you have done is right from your point.. and I can understand what she did is right from her point… I myself was not sure what really happened in my life… and was trying to protect her from the pain till I get some evidence to prove it… but destiny has something else in the store… I don't blame any one… she knows me only for an year… what about you… except Aditya and Dadi… none felt that I won't do such a thing… I heard you told many things many time that I am capable of doing anything… I was learning to understand you then… I had seen the faces in the dining table, where, once everyone waited till I took a spoon of food to my mouth, turning in hatred… I saw people who happened to be across me in this very floor trying hard to do something to avoid meeting me… I saw the house I built for ma's dream has turned a unreachable heaven for me… and finally I saw the room I spent my whole life…
He stopped there unable to continue… he walked past everyone. stopped in the steps for a while…
Jai: I am not anger with anyone… but I don't want any care or love if that is demanding a death without trial if needed… I have died a millions death by now in each breath I am taking in… Ranveer get ready… we have to rush now…
Jai went to study.. he packed his bag… then he remembered he didn't take his travel pack which is still in Bani's room… without knowing she already in there he went and opened the room… and saw she sitting on the edge of the bed.. she jumped from the bed.. but he turned and gone out…
Jai: Tony….
Tony came, he told him to get his travel pack. And gone back to study…
Tony went to take the travel pack, then Bani gave him a towel, she told Mr.Walia doesn't like to use hotel towels, then she gave him his folded handkerchiefs, ties, woolen socks… and few other things…
Bani: haan, Tony, take the mobile charger and keep in his bag, then there will be a small telephone book he took with him when he travels… it will be in the first left drawer…
Tony looked at Bani with a sad smile and nodded his head… moved forward to study… he silently took the mobile charger, medicines, small diary… Jai watched him taking the diary… he thought Bani must have told him… but he pretended as if nothing special… then he saw Tony is putting the towels and socks etc… Tony noted the framed photo of Bani in the suitcase and a smile crossed his face. Jai knew what he is thinking. He looked at him and told "take care of her well" for which Tony nodded.
Jai came out of his study followed by Tony with luggage in his hand. Bani stayed back thinking that he will not like her to see when he leave. She doesn't want to irritate him. He didn't look up also. When he stepped out of the front door she ran into the study and stood by the window… removed the curtain she saw he is entering the car, but he stood a while and turned and looked up directly to the window where she stood… she couldn't contain herself… she closed her mouth with her hands… Aditya who stood near Jai looked up and saw where Jai looked… and smiled little. Jai got into the car without much expression and even without waving his hands he sat.
Dr.Ajay was one of Jai's close friend with whom he studied in US. Jai was Business Management student while Ajay was medicine but they stayed together for about 12 yrs in the same flat. They were like a family throughout their life till Bani come into Jai's life. The life then Jai had been through was not known to Ajay as he was very busy with his presenting papers on his research.. may be that is the reason jai decided not to disturb his friend with bad news… Ajay had arranged an accommodation just across the hospital… it is just a walkable distance… they went to hospital after getting fresh. It was around 5.30 then.
Ajay took them to the cabin… he went through the reports… then he asked for the medicines which she was taking… he asked Rashi when he saw the bottle of the mineral capsules how long she is taking it and why and who prescribed it… all other medicines were with proper packing and labels..
Rashi: few months back I fainted with exhaustion and Bani mami took me to doctor… (Ajay looked at Jai… she continued…) doctor was checking me when mummiji also came.. (Ajay looked at Jai again who was now staring at Rashi… she continued) doctor told I am weak and need to take extra minerals and iron for sometime… (she showed the prescription in the file…) she told me to take this every day, one each…
Dr.A: so you were taking this tab for 5 months now… (with horror look on his face)
Rashi: no.. in fact I kept it in kitchen to avoid Ranveer seeing me taking it. But I hate to take it. After taking it I feel like omitting and head ache and some kind of burning inside…
Dr.A: did you tell this to the doctor…(for which she nodded no. he got up from the seat and took another bottle of the same fesovit caps from the sample medicines in his cupboard and put in front of him. He opened the plastic seal and show one capsule to her. Then he took one capsule from the bottle she brought. ) do you remember to take a capsule which was like this filled with grains of minerals or just like this one which you brought filled with powder…
Rashi looked into both capsules… nodded in disagreement…
Rashi: I don't remember seeing a grain filled capsule… I always took this powdered one…
Dr.A: how many bottles are there in your hand, are them with you…
Rashi took another three bottle from her bag and gave him. She told that Jigyasa brought a bottle every month . she only bought all the medicines for her. Ajay looked into the bottle which Rashi gave him with a shock on his face. He looked up Jai who was getting worried by then… he asked Rashi whether she is getting new bottles without plastic seal or sealed with the cap… for which she replied she got all just like that…
Dr.A:Jai, what Ms. Astha was doubting is right… Rashi was taking something which was slow poisoning her…
Everyone like "what?"… they couldn't just believe what they just heard.. Ajay told when Astha told me when she saw the blood sample she felt something strange though it looked like a genuine blood cancer case. She didn't dare to tell this to you. She, then saw Sahil's baby's blood sample confirmed it right… because Rano's had been taking this same chemical somehow, which caused the harmful brain damage to the baby… but it seems her blood doesn't contain much of it… mostly a couple of intake through juice or some eatables… Rashi remembered the day Rano ate the halwa Bani made and Rano felt burning and taken to hospital… she told about the incident to them… she told that normally such halwa will not do such reaction, though it may make feel hot or thursty of something… but Rano was like ate some cyanide.. her throat was burning and she was holding to the throat…
Dr.A: you told you kept this in kitchen… and who was there in there..
Rashi: Bani mami was making this halwa, I too went there and stood little time, then I came out, after making it mami also came out, then there was none in the kitchen, Tony has been out to market, mummiji must be taking her usual nap.. (she stopped there and looked at Ranveer… ) no, she was not sleeping, I saw her in the upstairs corridor while I came down again to sit with Rano while mami brought it to the hall… we sat there and asked Rano to eat if first, we were watching it…
Ajay looked at Jai and nodded his head in disbelief… he suddenly as if remembered something…
Dr.A: Jai… Bani is at home, right? Ask her to travel tomorrow itself… don't take chances… get her here at the earliest… please…
Jai looked bewildered got up and called and asked Aditya to arrange her ticket.. Jai called Nachiket and asked him to accompany Bani to Delhi… then again called Aditya and passed the message… he explained in a brief and asked him to keep quiet till he says something… Aditya was like… what more is going to blast off now in this family… he was fuming with anger… but was strictly told to keep quiet by Jai…
Dr.A: Jai, now Rashi has not taken even one bottle of the capsules… though laziness to take medicine is not good this saved her life now… Thank God.. I think she has to be admitted to the ICU the earliest.. this is a special ward.. here only special cases are handling so you will get access if there is pass in your hand … I will arrange it for you… but you can come here only in the evenings 4 to 7… she will be in the special clininc… there will be 24 hours people attending her.
He pressed the bell, the staff came out of clinic.. he asked them to take Rashi in and proceed with the blood testing and all. He took Ranveer for completing the other formalities…
They were back in the flat by 7.30. Ranveer broke down as soon as he entered the main hall. He couldn't believe was it his own mother or someone else.. Karuna tried to console him. Jai was also so shocked and is beyond any reactions. He didn't know what to do.
He called SP.Ganesh and explained everything. SP asked jai to send a complaint and asked him to send the bottles to police chemical lab.. he called someone in the local station and asked to do the needful. One of the capsule from the bottle Rashi was taking and another full bottle was taken for testing. Ajay called Jai around 8.30 and told him he is coming to pick him, he need to talk to him. Jai told ok, I will be down in the drive way. He told Karuna and Ranveer that he is going to meet Ajay, asked Ranveer to take her for dinner somewhere…
Jai was sitting in the car quietly… they reached Ajay's home, Meghna, Ajay's wife opened the door… seeing Jai she hugged him with so much pleasure.. he had a faint smile on his face… they talked over sometime about the time they spent together..
Suddenly Ajay asked about Jai's marriage for which he gone totally silent . . he sat there with unbearable suffocation which caught him in his throat , words were not coming out for a while… but after a while the whole thing.. which started from the entry of Dixit girls and till Rano's child's death… it was around 12 when he stopped… Meg has made black tea in between… and was again sitting hearing everything…
Dr.A: so you declined to accept their apology, right?
Jai looked at him without a word..
Dr.A.: even though you know that Bani loves you more than anything why you decided to behave like this… you need to think Jai, she is just above half of your age, and had been through a life which took her own life away… from your description I understand you clearly told it is your child, so is there anything they have to hear from you.. Jai..?
Jai again looked at him silently.. then back to his hand and then slowly wiped his face with his hands as if he wanted to wipe out the memories… Ajay got up and came and sat near him. He took his hands.
Dr.A: Jai, look at me… you can't wipe out things which already happened… as much as it happened to you it happened to them also yaar… now punishing them like this is not necessary, because they are already in such a pain after knowing their fault… Bani is pregnant with your child… her mental condition is very vulnerable if what you said is true about her comatic period.. you told you tortured her but she stood by you… you told she is doing everything possible to help your family… so what is it.. she is doing everything for you… (jai looked at him with a grin) don't look at me like that… I saw the way you talked to Aditya and Nachiket. She is a wife who dedicated to you, and when she hear something like this from your own mouth…
Meg started talking suddenly
Meg: haan, Jai, if it was me who heard that I won't hesitate a moment to kill myself.. and I am not sure how she survived even after she came to know that she is pregnant too..
Dr.A: Jai, you are a man… you told a baby was all she wanted all these days… she spent days crying and praying for a baby… and can you imagine how it hit on her after your revelation that Pia is carrying your baby… come on yaar, even if for a man it is impossible…
Jai: haan, I know it, I know it is hard… I didn't blame her… I didn't blame anyone… but they could hear what I have to say… I just didn't know what happened in that night… I was protecting her till I get to know the truth… but she could hear me once… (he shaken his head in pain)
Dr.A: why she should hear you… tell me… she told Pia had given enough opportunities to her to believe you still love Pia… so is it her to come between you and your love even though it was not true… it is not her mistake… you told she is such self respecting pride person… so how can anyone expect her to beg for a life just because she is pregnant? So think this way. Everything is over. Now if you are stubborn and put her through the pain only one thing will be the result… you also will end up having an unhealthy atleast mentally unhealthy child..
Jai looked down, tears flowed down his cheek… Ajay smiled, and hugged him.
Dr.A: I know you love her very much. And I know that I can't or any one can't explain how much you love her. And that is the truth. And the more biggest truth is that she do the same. She reacted only to you. Even in her coma she reacted to you. So as the basic need of human you are still existing in her life system. You should realize it. Now come, I will drop you home.. sleep well to receive her with a pleasant heart. And build a communication bridge between you instead letting each other to decide what to imagine or believe… that will work in the society not in the marriage…
They got up and Jai went to bed with a heavy heart. He is still not able to do it even though he wish… he thought something is worrying him again.. he doesn't realize what is it pulling back in when he want to stretch his hands to his little wife… he couldn't make out… and somehow he fell asleep only to hear the sound of Karuna in the next morning…
Karuna: get up Jai, Ranveer went to hospital. I am also leaving… you get up have tea.. get fresh, by the time Bani will arrive in hospital.
The name Bani sent a electric wibe through his body.. he doesn't want to show it but he was sure Karuna noticed it. She didn't tell anything but left. After hearing the poisoning he was almost dead thinking whether Bani also is given the same poison. But then something again held him back…
When jai saw Bani is walking in with Nachiket through the mirror opposite in the wall… he left a sigh of relief. Karuna nodded her head in disbelief. This man is impossible she thought. I am going to have a good time fighting with him now about that girl. She turned to receive Bani and they hugged each other. Nachiket hugged Jai and Ranveer.
Dr.Ajay came out of the clinic, seeing Bani, he looked at her for a long time as if he is examining her through his eyes. He went directly to her and held her by shoulder, Bani was like what is going on, she looked at Karuna who was all smiling.
Dr.A: I am Dr.Ajay, your pathidev's long time friend.
She kept her head down when she heard that word. She didn't know whether to cry or smile. Ajay understood the awkward situation and told her to come with him.
He took her in to where Rashi is lying, Bani spent a little time with her, then Ajay told her it is not safe staying in this room as she is in her first trimester of pregnancy. He took her to another room where there is no radiation.
He explained everything to her while still he is taking her blood and told her not to worry… But she was already shivering with fear, poisoning… a hundred questions came out in a seconds span. She worried and told a little loudly too…"hey Bhagvan, are you testing me this time too… won't you let me give Krishna to her father.." tears rolled down her cheek… Ajay was filling some report on the table, but clearly heard her, and got up from the seat, walked to her.
Dr.A: you love him so much , don't you?
Bani: my life.. (she stopped there. She has not been easy to talk with even close mingled people about her feeling, then how she will with a stranger).. she just looked at him ..
That pale lifeless eyes. Paper white face. He imagined how beautiful she must look like if she is happy. He patted on her shoulder and told you lay down peacefully for a while…
Dr.A: there is nothing to worry, atleast in my knowledge now, and we are not taking chances… we will do complete check up…
It is nearly two hours now Bani went inside. Jai was so restless, he started thinking negatively… sweat drops are appearing on his forehead. Finally she appeared behind Ajay.. she didn't look up at him while moving past to where Karuna is standing.
Dr.A: there is nothing to worry… she is just fine and your Krishna too is just fine
Jai throw a look at Ajay hearing that name and then Bani, who is standing her back towards him.
Dr.A: why are you looking at me like that? That is the name you both given to your child, right? Now take her home , she need to take rest, he gave prescription, get this for her, she need to take folic acid now which obviously she is not doing…
Ajay winked at Jai and walked inside the room again. Nachiket had to return to airport as he has to catch the flight back home immediately. Jai asked him to stay for a day, but he told there is something very urgent which demands his presence. He left them. They all reached home. Ranveer went to his room , Bani followed him. He was almost broken down.
Ranveer: Mami, what I have done this much to have a mother like that. I don't understand what was her need to do all this crimes.
Bani: Ranveer, now you just relax. Forget about all those things. Punishments will be given by God in correct time. Now your thoughts must be around Rashi, keep her happy and keep praying to God. (she put a hand on his hand which was on his thigh.). we are human who is just like some cards in God's hands. What game he want to do using us, we are not sure. But one thing I am sure for you. As the situation you are saved from a big disaster and all you prayers will keep you safe. Rashi is a good girl. She doesn't hurt anyone. Whatever happens I am sure everything will be alright. Now take rest. Don't think about home now. Keep praying instead. Ok.
She got up. He looked at the fragile figure leaving through the door. Jai was sitting in the hall listening to all. He pretended as if he didn't hear anything.
Bani went inside the room and got fresh up. She came out to see Jai is still reading. She didn't want to disturb him, so she walked to kitchen and checked out what is there. It was almost filled. She thought it is only 7 now, I can make something for the dinner. Karuna also joined her after a while. There was an awkward silence in the room. They finished preparing the dinner. And set the table and called the others for dinner.
Bani sat in the coach, reading the newspaper. Jai went inside and took his night dress and went inside to change. His medicine was ready with a glass of water on the small tea table near the bed. A small smile flashed but the soon it came it gone in double speed. Something is holding him back. He doesn't want to rejoice on anything. It was if he decided it is over for him.
He came out and sat on the side of the bed expecting Bani will come. But somehow fell asleep. It was already 5 in the morning when he opened his eyes just to see around. He saw the other part of the bed is untouched. He got up and saw Bani sleeping on the coach covering with her dupatta around her. He felt like someone stabbed his stomach. For a while he stood there knowing nothing what to do. Then slowly carried her in and put her in bed, covered her with a blanket. Poor thing was really shivering inside her dupatta.
Bani opened her eyes and looked around. She wondered how did I come in. just then Jai entered with a tray in his hand, tea and some toast for her. He is dressed. Without looking he told her
Jai: they gone to hospital. I need to go out. Karuna will be back now. Take rest and in Delhi it is not good to go out alone… anything you want let us know…
He turned out and gone. Bani didn't feel like anything. She expected it. She has reached in a conditioned state with his behavior. But still tears rolled down her cheek.
She got out of bed, and went to the door, looked through the mirror outside only to see Jai is standing there itself as if he expect her come down and open there. She opened the door and looked at him, he turned away and walked away … she closed the door and went inside .. she didn't feel like eating anything.. she drank a little tea and again went back to bed. She thought I will cook after sometime.
Jai spent that morning in an internet caf. Ajay called him around 11 and told him to meet him in hospital canteen. When he reached there, Ajay was already ordered the food for them.
Dr.A: Jai, thing are just as we expected. The report has come. Copies had sent to Ganesh also. The local officers had taken the notes from Rashi. It is more serious than we expected. Anyway she will be out from it in a 10 days time… 99.9% .. (he stopped for a while and looked at Jai who seems to be lost in his thought.)
Dr.A: Jai are you still stuck there… why is it too difficult for you… you are not the old no-care Walia Heir now. Tell me is there anything else troubling you, I am really getting scared of you, Jai. Meg was throwing me questions after she heard about Bani yesterday. That girl is breathing you in and you seems to be lost in a war… arrey.. if there is something just tell me atleast, I will not push you to do something which you can't.
Jai looked at him. He wished he could recognize what he feel. But he is in such a miserable condition but he didn't tell anything… instead told Ajay he is thinking of Jigyasa and the whole things which is very hard to sink in. Ajay with a half mind left the subject. Then talked something about the next level of procedures. It was already 1.30. Karuna called him and asked where is he. He told he is just coming.
Jai got up and walked to the flat. He becomes almost half. Looking like 10 more yrs older now. He walked in and saw Karuna and Bani is sitting in the sofa. They got up and Karuna walked to him.
Karuna: what are you doing Jai, you know what is the time now. Why didn't you remember jai Bani is waiting for you to have lunch… she is pregnant, don't you know…
Before finishing Jai shouted at her back…
Jai: stop it, Karuna… is it you telling me … she is waiting for me… ohhh I have seen that waiting and concern about my well being last so many weeks in the walia dining table.
Karuna: Jai, it is over Jai, she is your wife… and she loves you ..…
Jai didn't let her finish it.
Jai: ohhh that part of wife… now she is a free person.. don't you know that… she herself set her and me free… (uffff, finally it came out… which was holding him back long time now)
Karuna: I didn't get you
Jai: you didn't get me. Ask her. She had sent the divorce paper from her loyal lawyer-friend's office three weeks back to me, signed paper. I have it , didn't sign it, but that doesn't make the difference. Till Rashi is out of this situation I am not able to do it. Then whose wife I should take care…
Bani is shocked to her root … with unbearable pain she left the hall and ran into the bedroom.
Karuna: wait a minute Jai… which divorce papers you mentioned…who sent the papers to you.. I am sure Tarun didn't send it. is the one Jigyasa got her signature while she was in her daze the day you tried to talk to her..? For God sake Jai, you are going high in your imagination without reason… do you have any idea what really happened..? that day? Do you want to hear it… enough is enough… I don't want to tell this but now you crossed the limit. Did you read the divorce paper? Did you see your wife's signature in it.
I didn't mind it because the signature was forced by Jigyasa holding Bani's hand in her own hand… it is not a valid signature at all. And sending it through Tarun's office… she can send it through your own office Jai, that is you sister.
Now hear me… just few minutes back you tried to talk to Bani in that party, Pia talked to her… (Karuna explained how Pia offered to Bani that she will talk to Mr.Walia to adopt Bani's child as their child) she was smart enough to reach her di before you try to reach… hearing that, Bani was still coming out of the daze, she started to shiver with fear. While you tried to talk to her she was thinking you are also going to tell her that… tell me now… which woman can hear or which wife will take it when another woman tell her that she will talk to her own husband to adopt her child… do you think it was something a lady can digest so easily….
Then to prove it all over again she called you to the temple, where Bani went to pray for Rashi, and then told Bani that you sent her there to sign the papers which allow her to enter your home again … tell me where Bani went wrong… haan she could have come and ask you… but was it needed when it came out from your own mouth directly once… what more she need to think that she is a unwanted person in your life… now tell me, do you have the papers in your hand….
Jai was trying hard to understand what he was just hearing…he hold Karuna's hand…
Jai: what did you say? She said Bani that I sent her to get the signature? OMG… she called me there telling that Bani is not feeling well, and she is not listening to her so come fast… when I asked her where Bani is she told me she just gone, didn't listen to her… but by the time Bani saw us… but then Rashi called and we forgot everything… and gone home…….
Karuna: do u have the papers in hand, Jai?
Jai: yes
She dragged him inside the room and asked him to take the papers. He took the papers and given to her. She opened the papers and showed him…
Karuna: do you recognize this signature as your wife's signature? Is her sign Jai?
he looked into it and and with a shock he realized that it is not… he was in such happy state that he suddenly took Karuna by her waste and made a few rounds… and started laughing… dropped her down… he sat kneeling down, keeping his head in hands… Bani and Karuna stood shocked there without knowing what really happened to him… he got up and hugged his sister, tears in his eyes..
Jai: you know Karuna, nothing has worried me than these papers… I thought it is really over. These papers are real. I don't know what to do… every thing returned but this become real behind every positive return…
Karuna still unbelievable to digest the fact that he was upset just because he thought the divorce is on, she looked at Bani who equally shocked and looking unbelievably at her husband… it was sinking in her slowly that it is not anger but the pain of losing her forever was the reason he shrugged her off… she couldn't just see anything.. she walked towards to her man who was now like a small child standing there looking at her with a "sorry, forgive me look" .. Karuna left the room tearing the papers and thrown it in to the waste bin.
Karuan: comedown, I am hungry…
Bani still in a daze reached Jai and looked into his eyes.. she couldn't still believe what she just heard… she touched his hands lightly… he was looking into her eyes… but she was not seeing anything… she was really in a daze… she didn't see him or hear him.. Jai held her hands tightly which made her jerk from the daze… tears rolled down continuously..
Bani: what did you say? (mumbling with words…) you… you were angry because… thought… I sent .. papers… not… (swallowing hard and controlling the trembling lips… ) because …… because of me … you are thrown out of house… and… massi… wow..
She couldn't complete… he just pulled her into his chest and held her tight.. kissed on her head. She let him do whatever.. unable to even blink her eyes… she was going weak.. she held on to him for her life … she was mumbling..
Bani: "I didn't know what to to.. I didn't have the strength to decide.. I was frozen… I didn't know what was going on around me then… please forgive me…. I never wanted to hurt you… but now it seems I am like a curse in your life…. "
He put a finger on her lips… took her face in his hands placed small kisses all over the face… she was standing with half closed eyes ..as if she is in heaven… she wrapped her arms around him tightly… keeping her head on his chest… closed the eyes..
Jai: "shhhhh.."… " it is ok… everything is ok… now… don't talk like this any more.. I only wanted you to be happy… I will do anything for that… you are the only thing I wanted in my life… nothing more.. "
Bani: I was really frightened.. never know what will become of me then.. I didn't want to come out of your room.. because I felt you are there every where with me… whenever I come out I want to go back into that room immediately… because I thought if I stay out you will leave me…
She looked at him… the pale eyes… pale face… she was like a ghost of her old one… he looked into her eyes.. deeply… thinking how much one can love me like this… he thought what a fool I am to think she wanted my room for herself for some other reasons.. and here she says he was everywhere in the room that she didn't want to lose… he hugged her tightly and placed a long kiss on her head…. Then he pulled back… kneeled down and placed his face to her stomach…
Jai: helloo… are you there… hey… papa got your mom back… papa will take care of your mom, ok… don't worry… don't trouble your mom… she is such a sweet mom you can ever get… (placed kiss on her stomach raising her top of the churidar, then dropped it down… he got up) chalo… you are starving… come eat something…
They walked out to see Karuna is lost in her thoughts… she smiled at them
Karuna: come have some food…
Jai: in fact I had lunch with Ajay in the hospital canteen..
Karuna: haan… but he told me just now that you didn't eat anything…
Jai looked at his sister with a grin… as if he told you like that…
Bani is sitting quietly… blushed.. Karuna noticed in a few minutes time this girl become red pepper from a white paper… she looked at Jai.. Jai looked at her with a quiet smile… assuring everything is alright now..
He also started to eat… Bani and Karuna cleaned the plates and kitchen… and each turned into their rooms..
Jai was lying down on the bed with his hands behind his head.. he had a smile when he saw her coming in… he got up and went and closed the door. She looked puzzled by this… he has a naughty look in his eyes… Bani walked towards the bathroom… after a while she came back and saw him sitting on the edge of the bed thinking something… he extended his hands towards her… he got her down to sit near him… then pressing his cheek to her neck
Jai: take some rest..
Bani: hmmm
Jai: you know you have to catch so many weeks sleep now…
Bani: how you know…
Jai: it is clear in your eyes… who else can know it sweetheart.. your eyes are doors to your soul… I can simply closing my eyes and see your soul through your eyes.. and I am sure we tells lots of things silently and exchanging lots of secrets too…
Bani: acha… let me know what are the secrets you got..
Jai: hmmm nooope, not now… now get some sleep… over exhausted… also yesterday you spent in the coach.. your back must be stiffened.. I was waiting waiting and fell asleep… when I opened my eyes it is already 5… it is ok, now I can carry you… not after couple of months…
She punched him jokingly…
Bani: aap bhi na… (she stopped suddenly … those words every time Pia said as if she is talking to him.. how could she do this to me.. hey bhagvan… if I was not capable of bringing them up as a good human then why did you selelct me to di it… tears rolled again… jai was watching her.. he didn't understand why she suddenly gone sad…)
Jai: want to talk about it?
Bani: hmmm
Jai: please… atleast now onwards pleas try to talk to me first… before you decided on.. please tell me what is it now..
She told him how Pia used to act in front of her as if she is talking to him… she always ended the conversation in "aap bhi naa, Mr. Walia"…. he hugged her… tightly as if he feared of losing her again and closed his eyes…
Jai: Bani, I did so many things which I didn't even know… all these things are like this… I never thought even in my wild dream that a girl like her can set me up like this… even now things are not sinking in… I really don't know even how to react… why it is me always… first it was..
He stopped abruptly… she understood… that he meant her mom… she held him tightly… a while.. moved back in the bed… pulled him to her lap…. She kept looking at his face… massaging his forehead… moving the fingers through his hair.. giving soft pressing on both sides of his forehead… then entwined her both hands together under his chin and pressed head towards her chest… bent down and placed some soft kisses on this cheeks… nose… he was like a baby.. closed his eyes… enjoying the moments he lost in his 40 yrs of life… after a while he got up and pushed her back in the bed and stretched beside her… he took her into the nook of his hands… told softly in her ears "I love you Bani" she turned back and looked at him and told "I love you too"..
It was about 5 in the evening when they got up. They came to see Karuna is already gone to hospital. There was a note on the dining table. After tea they sat in the sofa as if it is difficult to let go off.. hugging to each other.. he looked her hands
Jai: where are your bangles?
Bani: hmmm I didn't take any.
Jai: why?
Bani: when did you see me with bangles last?
Jai: hmmm. Well I have to get some for you, come let us go for a walk.. it is very bad to see the empty hand…
Bani: the life itself become so empty for a while..
Jai: yes… but it is a lesson not to empty it any more. I learned it…
Bani: hmmm
She snuggled little more to him. He smiled and slightly pushed her..
Jai: come get ready…
Bani: ok, first to hospital, then to shop..
While they were getting ready Jai's phone rang… it was Ajay… he invited all of them over dinner at his home.. he said he told Ranveer and Karuna too..
They reached by 8.30 at Dr. Ajay's house. Meghna looked at Bani with a kind of tenderness. They all sat to talk about how Ajay and Jai become close and how Jai helped Meghna and Ajay get married. Bani was stunned to hear Meghna is actually a singhania her maternal family.
Ajay told when he was in his last year of medicine his parents died and he was about drop the course and return when Jai forced him to continue… he shared his money for both and they did small small jobs to fill the rest. Ajay joined in an hospital after the course , evening he joined for his PG… but in his final year he again give up the job after Jai's request to fully concentrate on the course… during this time he met Meghna who lived with her family a few blocks away and fell in love. But her parents objected their marriage as he was an orphan like… for some time they didn't meet. But when Jai's course over he has some problems back at home so he decided to return… the day before his return, evening, Jai brought Meghna home and knocked on the door… normally he used to have a key and will enter in. but he waited outside and when Ajay opened the door Meghna appeared behind Jai… she was out from house for not agreeing to her parents demands. She stayed in a small flat and was waiting for Ajay to settle down with a new job after his PG course… but when Jai told her that he is leaving and Ajay is alone she agreed to come and they got married the very next day. The same day Jai returned to <ST1:COUNTRY-REGIoN>India</ST1:COUNTRY-REGIoN> saying I will come home once in a while. He kept his word till last year, while Ajay was away with his research in London and so he missed the whole story of Jai's marriage… every one was so happy to know that… but then when they heard about Karuna, Bani was really was like OMG.
20 yrs back when there was a party arranged by their gang, Aditya, Jai, Karuna, Jigyasa, Roshini… and some others … in their hotel. Jigyasa was so jealous with Karuna that she was more close to Jai than her. So she tricked her by drugging her and locked her in a room with a drunken friend. He was actually a womanizer but never messed up with any of the girls in the gang. But when Karuna is found unconscious in the morning he called Jai and with Roshini's help they somehow managed to hospital. Karuna was really like a hysteric over what happened to her. She refused to go home. So for few days he managed Massi telling that she got really busy with a project to do for the course so she is spending her time with Roshini to complete it. After four days Jai somehow took her home. But then she never returned to study. She told she doesn't want to continue as it is very difficult for her to follow.
After one month Massi found she is very upset and dull so decided to marry her off. There was only two options, either continue study or get married. Finally she agreed for a marriage with a man they found. But the day before her marriage she found out that she is pregnant. She didn't want to destroy a man's life. She didn't want to push her mother to death as she was a heart patient. So she decided it is better to give an impression that she eloped with someone and got married and living happily somewhere. But she reached Ajay and stayed their till her delivery with Jai's help. He was her support system throughout the tough time.
After delivery she moved into a flat Jai managed to buy for her. With the help of a good neighbor she brought up Lakshmi. She joined a course and continued her study and got a job in the central bank in two years.
Her neighbour was her colleague too. His mother was taking care of Lakshmi , he was like a father to her. Though they know everything , but Karuna denied his proposal saying she is a cursed person, but she was like a daughter in their house. They lived like a family. Jai will come now and then and Lakshmi is a fresh BBA and took an year off to join Karuna to come to Bombai.
The next door mother of her friend died an year back. But Narendra was very close to Lakshmi, she called him Papa, and he was the local guardian for her. Jai was forcing Karuna to marry him and when the time for Lakshmi's marriage come they both can give her away. Narendra is on a deputation to Pune and will be back next week. Ajay looked at Jai who was simply watching Bani's expressions with an amusement … Ranveer absolutely excited to hear all these stories… he thought he knows very little about his own family… he exclaimed it aloud too… everyone smiled…
Ajay: Jai, this time you should do it.. Karuna is testing our patient too much now…
Karuna smiled.. and said: ok. Ok.. let us be patient for couple of days till he comes back.. … otherwise itself we have nothing to worry about us…
Jai: from your point Karuna, after hearing this I don't know what Massi is going to give me… God knows… but that doesn't matter now..
Ajay: I will talk to her. She knows me well enough to talk in a better language than you Jai. And certainly she has no need to search for a pot to drop down with water in front of me. (Jai's face was stretched with pain… Ajay was like ohhhhohhhhooo)
Ajay: hey, I was joking yaar… why you took it into your head…
Bani looked at him concerned, her eyes too are moist. Ajay had noticed and eyed Meghna. They both smiled.
Ajay: ok… so that is it.. you both have some magical contact invisible to become emotional at the same time…
Jai looked at Bani who turned her face… Karuna pressed her hands… with a smile… she explained the fight with the divorce papers and finally she got scared to her death when Jai whirled her around in the air… everyone had a good laugh… Bani blushed beetroot red… Jai smiled his bay smile… looked down… Ranveer looked puzzled again after Jigyasa's one more game is out. He exclaimed again loudly… "what on earth was her problem" which jeopardized the whole movement in the room for a while.
Ajay came and sit near Ranveer. He told took his hands and started pressing them in his own hands…
Dr. A: Ranveer… look sometime life is like that… there is a phase in which bad things will happen one by one… then that era is over… then the next will start… the world is full of varieties of lives… we don't know what we are coupled with… so it is nothing to do with you when I agree that she is your mother… but her actions will never affect you until you get involved with her… now that she got her answer that you are not an easy prey for her… and you learned love is something much worthy to live with than money… so leave things to their own way… now we think about Rashi and keep her happy and help her to go through her pain and difficult time. It is good to see you patiently sit with her and talk to her and read her… there is nothing better in the medicine list than your support. She responds in much better way than we all expected… so let it go… ok…
Jai got up… all followed him.. in the door way
Ajay: so, Singhania girls, when you are going to give a treat.. hand made treat… you both are excellent cooks and we here request you both to let us enjoy your expertise once.
Meghna: OK… provided Jai, you have to share your wife's little time with me…
Bani: Sure
Meghna: OMG.. for first time this sweet sound has come out… well Bani… be aware of these men.. keep your tongue little healthy to give back instead of hiding it all the time… we won't survive .. they are such big opportunists…
Bani: I will remember that… especially when you says…
She looked at Jai through her eye corners… he was smiling… that I am not a trouble maker type smile…
Meghna: look Jai's face… he is already smelling the danger of leaving his wife with me.. ha hahah
Jai: there is no danger I see in it… and now no one is capable of doing it with Bani too or else you try…
Meghna: wow… what a confidence.. she patted on his back…. I love it… (she went and hung on her husband's shoulder) see us…nothing will affect us… it is rock hard…
Ajay hugged her back with a hand…
Narendra joined them in the next week. He took Karuna with him home. They were a little way from the hospital. He was looking bit older in the Jai's age group … but looked tired. Karuna was watching him over for a long time. So it was Jai who asked her to give him company. She was reluctant first then Bani promised she will be there with Ranveer if needed.
But next few days Rashi was taken to special clinic again. So they couldn't meet her for two days. Ranveer was really upset. But Jai and Bani along with Narendra and Karuna gives their best to keep him stay grounded. Narendra took leave for a week. So he could accompany her. When Jai mentioned about the problem occur if he took leave for Karuna… he told a story where Karuna took 4 months leave just for his mother.
One of them had to take leave to be with her. She told she will take leave, he will take care of Lakshmi. Till his mother died Karuna was on leave, everyone was thinking she is really his wife. Since they joined the bank before long back they become friends there was not much problem. Lakshmi was more close to her Papa than Karuna.. still she call him everyday and talk an hour. Narendra was also away that is why Lakshmi has to go to Bombay… otherwise she would have joined MBA here itself… a kind of proud was very clear on his face when he talks about Lakshmi… Jai noticed it with such a happiness.. he thought at least she agreed to marry. That is a good thing.
Finally Rashi was discharged. She has to come every three months for the check ups. But she can continue a limited normal life and some medicines are to be continued for a period. The doctors are hopeful about the condition…
The day came for Bani and Meghna's dinner party. They denied to disclose the items for the party. They did all the preparations while Karuna and Naren gave company to Ranveer and Rashi with some small shoppings. Rashi didn't go out much but little little outings were allowed.
Jai spent his day with Ajay for going out. Visiting some old places they used to be with. Since it was a Sunday and Ajay took a day off. He was really relaxed while Rashi's case was solved faster than he expected. He agreed to Jai when he asked to come he was not sure at all… even when he saw the bottle he thought it is nearly impossible… then a doctor never will give up till he fail… he was in such a tension that night Meghna has to sit up with him to watch something when sleep is not coming… she kept awake though she gas to go for work the next day.
The two friends exchanged a surprise how destiny played and finally linked more strongly than ever. Ajay promised to accompany them to Bombay taking two three days off… so that he convince Massi. But Jai told him that he already passed the message to Aditya who by this time would have conveyed it to Massi. From Aditya's words she is happy with the turn outs. After all she is a mother … every mother had their own calculations and dreams about their family…
The dinner turned out to be a super one. But it was vegetarian, that was the difference. Ajay told he never had such veg dinner and decided to follow his wife turning into a full time veg. Meghna thanked Bani for that… because of Bani's special curries something good has occurred in this house..
Jai was scanning Bani because from morning he is missing her.. he thought missing her.. if it was not for Ajay he wouldn't have spent that much time away from her. And he already know it now it is going to be difficult back home. As soon as he came he saw how Bani came ran out to meet him this evening. Her eyes were little moist too. It seems she also had the same feelings. She in the pretence of giving him water, gone to him and snuggled into his side as if a cat is furring around our leg. Ajay was smiling and he left them in the hall for a while. Meghna also give them little time before the other parties came for the dinner.
Karuna and Naren registered their marriage the next day. She was little nervous though for long years she has accepted him as her man… and recently started to live with him, but never the thought of a marriage occurred in her mind. Naren know it as it is something to do with her experience so he was not concerned about it. But when he told it is necessary to marry their child off she agreed.
Massi was so happy to receive them all. It seems the whole bad energies are replaced with double positive thing in their house through Naren, Ajay etc…
Rano was so happy and cried her heart out when she saw Bani back. She was the one who left alone… but Aditya tried his best to keep her happy…
Also he told Nachiket was of a good help with Lakshmi to cheer her up. They never let her sit alone to cry. They took her to shopping and temple visiting and all.
Jai looked at Nachiket who was made it a habit to watch Rano though he is pulling leg with Lakshmi. He sat quiet when he came to know it is Lakshmi's Papa who came. Massi was asking why he is hiding from Lakshmi… he told her "shhhhh… uske papa mere peeche belan leke ayega… I am worried about my health.. so don't want to risk.." every one laughed… Naren told that is good… be aware of fathers… but he was such charming guy that everyone liked him.
Lakshmi was in such a spirit that she didn't know whether to cry or laugh when she saw him… running to him, touching his legs, hugging him like a small kid… he was pouring with kisses on her head … and took a small book from his pocket possibly the missing chapters of past few days… Though Massi know Ajay and Meghna through Jai this is the first time they meet each other.
Massi: I happened to be the worst mother who did such big mistakes to her two kids.. I don't know how to amend the pain… but if God allows I will be forgiven by them… she looked into her hands in her lap when Ajay pointed about Karuna's marriage…
Ajay: she wanted to do only a registration and that is clearly understandable. In her place if it was someone else it will be more easy, but she is a woman of her own character.
Massi: I know now.. and I failed to gain the trust when Jai could enjoy it .. she wiped the rolled down tears…
Ajay looked at Jai.. he knows for a while he didn't mingle with Massi the same way though he never disrespect her… Jai got up as if he got a hint… if it was not for Karuna Ajay thought a while Jai wouldn't have given up… but he did come and sat near Massi… who instantly hugged him and leaned to his chest and cried…
Jai: forget whatever happened and think about Karuna and Lakshmi… atleast a small ceremony has to take place in this house for them…
The second day Karuna's wedding took place in Walia house in a simple function. Massi also asked Jai and Bani to repeat for which the refused it. But agreed to get the mangalsutra tied and filling the mang with sindoor after the pooja.. Ajay and Naren returned to Delhi after two days. Naren told Karuna that she is needed here for some more time as the girls are really in need of eleder's help. He promised he will be visiting now and then.
One more month is passed. One day Nachiket came with his luggage. Jai was stunned to see him with bags and a bad thought passed through his mind. But Nachiket told that he for the time being left the company quarters where he was staying since his return to Bombay. He told Jai that he left the company… the company is sold to Jai's friend Mr. Sameer khan. He told he can't manage goondas and it is not his interest. He gave 20% of the money to employees, 10% to charity, the rest he divided two and put one part in his mom's account and rest in his account.
He told he has to go back to his job in US… he need a change… he told he chose Mr. Khan because he is in good terms with Jai. Jai was sad but he told if feel it comfortable to work in some profession he is not discouraging him. Nachiket told his old company, a consulting firm, which has many of his classmates, were in need of him urgently… so he is leaving in a week's time… till then he asked permission to stay in this house… Jai almost shouted at him for asking permission to live in his own house…
Nachiket: some things are like this Bhaiya… we need to be formal.. that will do good to keep the relations in tact.
He chose to stay in one of the guest room… it was such noisy week… always fight between Lakshmi and Nachiket… those two were keeping others entertained… but another bonding was taking shape in between… though everyone was noticing it none spelled it out. For Jai it was a kind of relief but for Aditya it was like a blessing… because the Nachiket-Rano relationship formed in an understanding basis… he was seeing her sufferings for long time… without any one's notice they were giving a mutual support… in fact it was Rano who said Nachiket about the Dubai CD and given the edited one which she removed from Pushkar's player… they worked together to clear the clouds away from Jai and Bani's life… the bonding was strong enough though they never felt it is a physical attraction… but now Rano is divorced from Sahil. But she is still in a shock her child's death brought into her life… she was not still able to give a smile to others or looking up to any one on face.. or talk even to Bani she kept a distance…
Two days before his journey he met Jai in his study and talked about Rano.. he wanted someone talk to Rano first as he has not discussed it with her… and ofcourse Bani's consent. That evening Jai called everyone and presented the matter… everyone was happy… Lakshmi pulled his leg saying that she is saved from fights… but she went and hugged him and said "so mamaji, even if you are such difficult partner in kitchen I forgave you now.. since you are going to marry my friend…I don't want to make her angry.." everyone laughed…
Rano was in such awkward condition… refused to show up in the hall … though she was sure every one is happy for her… they decided to do the engagement now before Nachiket goes… and register the marriage too… so that next time he can take her with him with the marriage certificate… the night before he leave he spent time with Rano till morning talking to her.. they kept the door open and spent the time… but it was obvious that all accepted them man and woman… but he was being he didn't want to give a bit of fear to anyone before the real marriage is taking place…
Rano was happy in fact… atleast as he said she can get away from this house… she needed a change… it is almost 3 in the morning when they fell asleep in the bed holding each others hands… morning he got up first to see Rano is wrapping her hands around him. He smiled at the sight… she is still wearing her glass.. he removed it.. she stirred a little.. then opened her eyes.. and looked at him…
Nachiket: I have to get ready… shall I get up now…
She nodded her head and got up from the bed. But the instant she is up in her legs she was in a lost.. it was like the reality stuck her then that he is leaving… she walked to him who was watching it with tearful eyes.. and hugged him… for the first time.. she felt the warmth of two arms… she was long living with suppressed feelings and acting in front of everyone… this is real… no acting… she looked at him.. he smiled
Nachiket: we both need a change… so be patient for a little time… as soon as accommodation and visa is ready you will joint me.. either I will fly back to take you or you can fly your own.. what situation demand then… then remember one thing… I am going to be normal working husband… not a walia prince… so never compare you life with the one you had here…
Rano: you think if I can ever wish for a life I will wish one as the one I lived here. Isn't it better not to wish for a life at all…
Nachiket: I know honey.. I trust you.. ok now let me go and get ready… don't cry… send me with a smile..
He walked to his room. In an hour time everyone was down. Jai told he will come to airport with Bani and Rano and Aditya also coming… he nodded.. took blessings from all… then went to Lakshmi… he stood a minute with his hands in his hips.. though tears filled his eyes… he scanned her … but then gone gave her a tight hug… "don't think you are saved from me… I will be back in your kitchen wherever you are to pull your leg… wait and see"… she just nodded which in fact surprised him he patted her on the shoulders…
Bani, Rano, and Nachiket and Jai in the front Aditya driving… they have asked the driver to be ready in the airport so that they can leave the car and go in instead of finding a place to park it. It was such touching scene where Rano hugged him and said bye… she was composed well… but one can easily realize the turmoil that in process in her inner self.
One day when every one was sitting in the hall before dinner Pushkar came. With a unshaven face… he looked like grown older than his age. He took blessings from all. Naren was there that day, he went and congratulated him too. Then he sit where Aditya pointed near him. He told that he came to tell one sad news, but equally good news.. he told Pia had an abortion and lost the child.. in the jail she found lying unconscious in the evening … none saw her because it was the time inmates are taken outside to spent little time in the fresh air and doing small small jobs in the garden. It seems she had tripped down and lost the memory… hit her stomach on a stone… Bani held her ears tight.. and closed her eyes tightly… Jai got really scared… but Karuna held her tight and in a minute she sat upright composed…
Pushkar said now there is no need for me to delay the divorce… so we are proceeding with it… he got up and went to Ranveer , hugged him and told he is really happy for him… Ranveer told him he will meet him in office… they have already become good friends now.
The company was reshaping with the young leads… Jai had withdrawn and minimized his office hours… Aditya as usual was workaholic.. but he too limited it for Rano… they become such a good company… Rano and Pushkar along with Ranveer's help were really shining. But the time had come fast for Rano to go. The very next month Nachiket came to take her back with him.
So again Pushkar left alone and Lakshmi was forced to start her carreer with him. Naren agreed if she can do something that is better. But only thing she should complete MBA… it was his biggest dream… Jai thought when a father kill his own child in this house a man dream of a daughter which is not legally his own at all…
Lakshmi was sharp.. she was such a naughty at home… but if you see in the office, she was like rude teacher… but others in the team really liked her… Pushkar helped her his best… though there was only a strict colleague relationship was there… Pushkar was like a frightened kitten… he had enough of his own dreams.. so he was really a workaholic… most days he was seen sitting and working through the night when Lakshmi reach the office next morning… but he was a making of another Jai Walia in process… everyone saw a future Jai and Bani jodi in them soon. Only they waited to the time come when he feels comfortable to be with a woman again. We will also wait till he is ready for that.
The cards we become in the hands of destiny, we never can imagine what we become off us tomorrow… the pairs who seemed to be destined for ever had turned out to be totally wrong match… those show never imagined to be together become a life long partner… what next in the store for us… and how we are going to be played down…
End.
Note: the medical details, the hospital description and places everything is mere imagination… though it matches something I have seen in my life in and out India. But generally everything is simply adopted to help a good flow.
Kumkum Bhagya
Tu Dhadkan Main Dil
