SS2 (III) (Pg 150 Full Update(In progress)) - Page 101

hey,

Originally posted by: ruha

sri getting well,that's nice.lovely child.toh Vishal uncle apni dil ki baat Sri madam se karte hai .Fantastic plan of Deepika and Sandhya,dekna hai aage aage plan kaise badta hai.Vishal tumhe to haan karni hi padagi.
great one want ore like this.
How is ur finger now?

The whole day the team was occupied with the investigations….. A hell lot in fact! 😲

Even though high profiled they hadn't expected so much information to come out in this case and as each and every news came out, it was something the team hadn't anticipated at all… And something they took time to digest….

Aryan and Vishal were professionals when it came to work…. No need to remind them their duty… But still their mind went off wandering to Sri and Dipika…. Both of them had called Dipika during lunch and received positive report about Sri… So they were content…. But both wanted to meet them but couldn't sneak off from their job…. The case required their full attention and the urgency to get it solved was mounting….

Next day they had a meeting scheduled to discuss their findings and next step of investigation and wound up for the day…. The minute they were free to go home their cars found way to Appollo Hospital… To receive a mild and pleasant surprise with the whole team there! 😃

Neha was sitting beside Sri helping her open the gift she had bought….

Dipika: (Hands on her hips) Neha! Iski kya zaroorat thi? Everyone have! Kitni baar kahoon….

Neha: (Taking out the doll from the box and interrupting her) Offo Dipika…. Will you cut it out! Sri is not only your daughter…. (Thinking) In a round about way…. (Pausing) No… Straight way…. She is my niece too and I have every right as her aunty to get her what I want! And the others you mentioned…. Boxer and Ajay! They also think in the same lines! 😉

Saying she looked at Sri who was expectantly looking at the new Barbie doll Neha had bought…. The latest one in market… There was no doubt that Neha knew Sri had a collection of Barbie dolls… Sri loved to collect them and Dipika made sure she bought them whenever she could…. 😳

Neha: (Taking the doll out of the cover) Here you go Sri! Aapki Barbie! Like it? Holiday Barbie hai…. Kitni fashionable hai naa?

Sri took the doll enthusiastically and started investigating her… She knew what features each and every of her Barbie had, from the normal ones to the Princess to the dancing dolls and everything… She had a big Barbie doll house too…

This Barbie was definitely new with different colored dresses…. This one was at present wearing a strapless crimson colored dress….. Looking really gorgeous! How do dolls look so beautiful?!?!? More than women sometimes!!! 😉

Sri: Love it aunty! 😛

Saying Sri hugged Neha and pulled the box which held the doll in it few minutes before and started looking through the accessories which had come with it… Seeing her engrossed with her doll Neha smiled and looked at Dipika who was glaring at her… 😳

Neha: (Puzzled) What!?!?! 🤔

Dipika: What did you just say?

Neha: (Innocently) Maine kya kaha? 😉 😃

Saying she went off to sit on the couch trying her best not to smile.… Dipika very well knew that Neha understood what she was asking about…. But she was covering up on purpose…. She glared at her for few moments while Neha just smiled and Dipika too had to smile and decided against prodding more…. Because she knew she wouldn't get the right answer….

Dipika: (Sitting beside Neha) Chodo! I know you know exactly what I am asking about and you know I know that I know that you have understood what I was asking about…. Phir poochke kya faida? How was the case?

Neha: (Grinning 😃) Vove… Lots of you knows and I knows! 😆 As for the case…. Well… Okay… Kuch zyada hi media ise follow kar rahe hain isliye humare upar zyada hi pressure hai is case ko jaldi solve karne ke liye….

Dipika: Maine pada tha newspaper me…. It really is a tough case…. Case me progress to ho raha hai naa?

Neha: Of course yes…. Ye kaisa sawaal hai Dipika? With Aryan and Vishal in the case…. Any doubt?

Dipika nodded smiling… Of course when the case had the best cops of the nation handling it, any doubt?!?!? ⭐️

Just then the ladies looked up as the door opened and Ajay, Boxer entered….

Ajay gave the flask and paper cups to Dipika and sat down heavily by the bed…. Dipika looked at Neha eyebrows raised questioningly as Boxer sat down by the single couch and spread out the newspaper… 🤔

Neha just indicated to let go and get the coffee…. Shrugging Dipika started to pour cups of coffee for them to drink… Must be the usual tiff between them!😊

Ajay's sigh may not be a concern for Neha or the others but for Sri it was… She was not used to see upset people around her… She never knew what sorrow was…. Because Dipika had made sure she knew not what they meant…. Just maybe few months back when Sri really knew what it was to be lonely… But she had got over it…. Dipika had helped here too… Or more to say Dipika's mother had helped! 😊

Sri who was busily trying on the new accessories on her new Barbie stopped midway to look at Ajay who sat sulking by her, idly fiddling with the Barbie's comb…

Sri: (Tilting her head) Kya hua uncle? Aap upset ho? 😕

Ajay slowly looked up… Then suddenly mouth quivering hugged her and started to cry…. At least acted like crying… This stunned Sri who made a pity face and patted her small hand over his shoulder looking pitily at her mother…. 😭

Dipika was giving coffee to Neha and Boxer who looked at this scene surprised at Ajay's act…. They knew he was joking only…. But they didn't like him making Sri believe that something was indeed serious…. She really did think something was seriously wrong as Ajay went on whimpering on her shoulders!

Before any of them could react the room door opened again and Aryan entered with a very big gift and a very big smile on his face… 😊

Everybody turned their attention to the door…. Dipika's face automatically lit into a smile seeing him….. He looked at everyone and his eyes lingered on Dipika for a moment too longer than the normal gaze…. Smiling she looked away to pour another cup of coffee….. 😳

Aryan only then noticed a whimpering form hugging Sri who was too small for Ajay's double hand hug….

Aryan: (Doubtfully) Ajay!?!?! ❓

Sri looked up solemnly at Aryan and said….

Sri: Uncle, Ajay uncle upset hain…. Kisi ne unhe upset kiya hai!

Stunned Aryan patted Ajay who finally parted from Sri wiping his unseen tears…. One look at him and Aryan knew he was faking… He got angry at him for making Sri think that something was seriously wrong… That poor girl was looking at him with a very serious, upset face….

Aryan: (Sternly) Ajay! Tumhare is naatak baaz ke liye ek bachchi hi mili? 😡

At this Dipika turned to look at Aryan who really seemed angry at Ajay…. He too didn't like the fact that Sri was pulled into his fake act! She was surprised at him getting so angry on Ajay for faking to Sri! On Ajay for a small girl.... Welll…. Welll…. Welll…. That is something!!!!!!!!!!! 😉

Ajay looked up earnestly at Aryan and said….

Ajay: Main natak kahan kar raha hoon… I am seriously and sincerely upset! 😒

Dipika came over to them and extended the coffee cups…. Ajay took his still sulking…. Dipika then looked at Aryan who indicated her to wait… Aryan turned over his attention to Sri…

Aryan: (Bending down and kissing her on her forehead) Hi Sri beta! Aap kaise ho? ❓

Sri: (Glancing at Ajay) Fine uncle…. Lekin docy baar baar aake injy dete hain! It is paining!

Aryan: Well… Tumhe jaldi ghar jaana jo hai… Isliye…. Doctor jo karte hain aapki good ke liye hai…. Aur ye gift aapke liye!

Saying Aryan gave the gift to Sri who didn't take the gift and was still not smiling glancing at Ajay again and again.... Seeing her visibly upset by a non-upset upset Ajay….

Aryan: Sri! Ye Ajay uncle hain naa… He likes to act… Vo such me upset nahi hain beta… Sirf natak kar rahe hain.… Aap unhe seriously mat lena!

Sri looked once at Aryan and back at Ajay not convinced….

Aryan: (Sternly) Ajay! 😳

Ajay looked at Aryan who indicated Sri… Seeing Sri was upset by his been upset Ajay smiled and said…

Ajay: Oh Sri! Nothing wrong beta… Main to mazaak kar raha tha…. Bas yoheen! Joke! See I am all smiling…. (Grinning and pulling his lips far apart😃) Waise uncle achche se rote hain naa? Practice ke liye…. Shaadi ke baad aadat daalni hai naa, isliye!

Sri didn't understand the full meaning of what he said but understood that Ajay was joking and smiled…. She took the gift from Aryan and started to unwrap her new gift…. But the others smiled at this while Neha glared at him…. 😆

Coming around the bed Aryan took the coffee from Dipika and sitting down on the foot of the bed asked…

Aryan: Ab bolo… Ye itna nataak kis liye?

Getting up Ajay walked over to the couch Neha was seated and sat on its arm rest…

Ajay: Mujhse kyun pooch rahe ho? Issse poocho…. We have our marriage in fifteen days now! Does any body care? Not even my bride! 😔

At this the others smiled as Ajay continued exasperated….

Ajay: Can you believe it? I haven't distributed my cards yet…. Aur (Hitting Neha on her head who glared up at him😡) ye… Ise bhi uski fikar nahi! And she isn't started her shopping yet! Uski wajah se meri shopping me rukavat aayi hai… Ma to sab iski pasand se shopping karna chahati hain and she is not even interested in it! 😊

Neha: Ajay stop been childish…. Ab to itne din hain shaadi ke liye… And we decided we would distribute our cards during the weekend…. Which is just two days away! Aur shopping ki tumhe itni kyun fikar hai? Vo mera department hai.…. Ho jayega!

Ajay: Kaise hoga? With Sri in hospital now….

Dipika: (Surprised🤔) Sri ke hospital me hone se tumhare shaadi ki shopping me kyun problem?

Neha: Oh nothing Dipika… Maine Ajay se kaha tha ki main apni shopping tumhare saath karoongi… You have a good sense of shopping for perfect items…. Ab jab tak Sri theek nahi ho jaati maine shopping postpone kar di hai… Aur isliye Ajay baat ka batangad bana raha hai!

Dipika: Oh! Neha…. Ajay theek hi to keh raha hai… Last minute ke liye kyun sab kuch rakhna? Tum Ajay ki mummy ko le jao naa!

Neha: Dipika! Mummy ji ko waise bhi blood pressure hai…. Isliye vo zyada ghoom phir nahi sakti…. Isliye maine socha tumhare saath jaoongi… And I am going with you…. Ajay to stupid sa behave kar raha hai! Seriously!

Ajay: Dekha! Pity me! Ab shopping naa kare to mujhe koi problem nahi..…. Jo kuch bhi hai already ussse bhi main kaam chala loonga…. Shaadi hi to hai…. Lekin shaadi ke liye meri hone waali dharam patni sab kuch naya hi pehenna chahati hain… Warna kehti hai ki shaadi hi nahi karegi! (Throwing up his hands) Can you believe it?!?!?

While others chuckled at their bickering Neha said in a tone that Ajay was mad to even think about her not wearing anything new for the marriage……… 😆

Neha: Of course Ajay! Are meri shaadi hai! Bachi kuchi kyun pehanoon? Everything should be new! Tum bhi to naye ho… Me too! 😃

Ajay glared down at Neha who smiled at his very serious, still not serious expression….

Dipika: (Smiling) It's okay Ajay… Sri to ab theek ho hi gayi hai… Jaldi use ghar discharge kar denge…. Don't worry tumhari shaadi me koi problem nahi aayegi! I promise!

Ajay: (Smiling) Ha that's better…. Dipika ne promise kar di hai to main fikar karna chod sakta hoon…. (Very confidently) Lekin koi problem aayi, to zabardasti utha le jaake shaadi kar loonga!

At this there was a burst of laughter as Ajay and Sri looked bewildered…. 🤣 Sri was bewildered as she didn't know the reason for the sudden burst of laughter and Ajay because he didn't understand what was there to laugh at his sentence….

Dipika went to sit by Sri and indicated her to go on with her game…. But couldn't control her laughter! 😆

Ajay: (Bewildered) What?!!?!? Isme itne hasne ki kya baat hai?

Aryan: (Catching his breath) Jo ho sake vo batana!

Ajay: (Getting up angrily) Matlab?!?! I can't lift her?!!? (Looking down at Neha) She does not seem so heavy…. (Rolling up his sleeves) Come on Neha…. We'll do it… Mujhe apni strength dikhani hai! 😡

Saying he bent to lift Neha when she got up from there hurriedly and went beside Aryan….

Neha: (With a warning finger😲) Don't you dare Ajay! Main apni shaadi me fit rehena chahati hoon… Not with a broken back! Meri maano… Tum bhi risk mat uthana! Agar strength dikhani hi hai…. To… To…. Go lift someone else!

Ajay glared at her as others again chuckled at this….

Ajay: Now this is too much… Mujhe abbbhi apni strenghth dikhani hai! I'll show you!

Saying Ajay walked over to Neha who stepped backwards going around the bed avoiding him warning him…. The others chuckled seeing the to-be-wed couple in such a playful mood….

Sri: (Clapping her hands) Hai! Aunty, uncle pakada pakadi khel rahe hain! (To Dipika) Mamma, shall I join in? ❓

Dipika: (Hugging her🤗) Not now…. Bilkul theek ho jayiye baad me hum sab khelenge! Ab aapko rest leni hai… No over excitement….

Sri became a little upset at this but enjoyed Ajay trying to catch Neha….

Dipika looked up at Ajay who had finally managed to catch Neha and tried to lift her…. But she didn't allow it… Instead he managed to catch her from behind and lift her few inches off the ground…. 😃

There was again laughter in the room……Lively… All the stress, tension, disease, worries forgotten…. 😆 It was ages after that the whole team was gathered and laughing their hearts off….

At the other side of the bed Neha was having a tough time making Ajay let go of her hitting him hard on his hands….

Dipika and Aryan's eyes met for a brief period… Both knew that it had been ages they had laughed and even smiled like this with nothing to worry about… And immediately both their attention turned to Sri who was busily watching Neha and Ajay fight…. Laughing and clapping all the while….. Because they both knew she was the reason behind this… The whole team was tension free…. Except…

Just then Dipika turned around and saw Boxer reading the newspaper… Not reading…. Just had it spread in front of him and was deep in thought… Seems he had not heard or given notice to anything happening around… His face was a little concerned too…. 🤔

Dipika indicated him to Aryan who also glanced at Boxer… Aryan frowned seeing his concentrated face…… Coming back from the investigation he looked fine… He looked back at Dipika and shrugged his shoulders…. She indicated him to talk to him… Aryan nodded and called out….

Aryan: Boxer!

He didn't respond… But this caught Neha and Ajay's attention too…. They stopped fighting and looked at each surprised…. Only then did they too notice that Boxer had not even talked a word since they had come to the hospital….. Finally Ajay let go off Neha and both of them came back to the couch… Aryan too came over to Boxer and placed a hand over Boxer's shoulder….

Aryan: Boxer! Kya baat hai? Anything wrong? ❓

Boxer: (Looking up) Nai bas…

Ajay: Chaachu kya baat hai? Main poochna chahata tha… Jab se hum investigation se aaye hain, tum pareshaan ho… Haseena ka phone aaya tha naa?

Boxer: (Nodding) Haan… Usi ki wajah se pareshaan hoon…

The others looked at each worried…. Was Haseena okay? She should be, because Boxer wouldn't be sitting here mum if she wasn't… It must be something else! 😕

Dipika: Kya hua Boxer? Haseena to theek hai naa?

Boxer: Haan vo theek hai… Lekin uski doctor nahi!

Ajay: Kya?!!? Doctor!?!? Boxer… Haseena maa banane waali hai to uski tabiyat ka khayal rakho naa…. Uske doctor ka kyun? 😊

Boxer: Tch! Are maamu vo baat nahi hai… Haseena ko unke ghar waale apni ek family doctor ko dikha rahe hain…. Jinhone Haseena ke bhabhi ko bhi treat kiya tha… Lekin ab vo abroad jaa rahe hain… Wahan settle hone… Keh raha the ek saal se plan tha unka… Ab sab finalise ho gaya hai!

Everyone sighed relived knowing that nothing was serious… But smiled thinking that if Haseena faced a problem which not even that a big issue, Boxer took it very seriously…. Why not?!?! Happiness knocks on your door only once and this was the first time for Boxer…. He had never imagined a life and family for himself…. But with Haseena everything had changed about him… Even before, though he was working in a respectable firm his dark past haunted him…. People still looked a little low on him…. But when he was settled as a family the respect he earned was nothing he had even dreamt off… And Haseena was the one and only reason for it! ❤️

She was his life and that was not said for sake!

Neha: (Getting the problem) To ab Haseena ke liye ek doosra doctor dekhna hai!? Usme kya problem hai? City me kayi achche doctor hain Boxer….

Boxer: Haan pata hai… Yahi soch me tha ki koun se hospital me kis doctor ko dikhoon…. Haseena ke parents bhi dekh rahe hain…. Bas isi soch me tha!

Just then a voice said….

"City ke best hospital me baithke, city ke best child birth specialist ko jaante hue tum aise kaise keh sakte ho Boxer!?!?!"

Everyone's heads turned around immediately towards the room door… It was Vishal and his mother… Vishal had said this comment…. 😛

Seeing Vishal Sri jumped up, kneeling on her bed extending both her hands out…

Sri: Vishal uncle! 🤗

Vishal came over to Sri and lifted her right off the bed and hugged her close…

Dipika smiled seeing this… Sri liked Vishal very much…. She always talked to him over the phone for ages… Talking what? Only they knew… All peppy talks only but still Sri enjoyed speaking to Vishal… Only few times Vishal had met Sri when he had accompanied Dipika to Pune on Sri's insistence that too! 😳

Thinking something she glanced at Aryan who was just watching Sri and Vishal's closeness with no particular expression on his face… He was definitely not angry…. But not sooooooo upset too… But still…. Was that a twinge of jealousy which just crossed his face for a second…. Aryan must have realized that Dipika was watching him because he glanced at her for a moment and looked away… She smiled looking back at Vishal! Happens! 😉

Vishal: Hello beta! How is my Angel!?!? (Kissing her)

Sri: (Hugging him around his neck) Angel is fine! (Extending her tiny palm) Angel ki gift kahan hai?

Vishal: (Questioningly😉) Gift?!? Gift kyun? ❓

Sri: Haan…. Aaj jo bhi mujhe dekhne aaye hain sabne mujhe di hai… (Ticking her fingers) Sandhya aunty ne flowers di… Ajay uncle coloring book laaye hain… Boxer uncle story book…. Neha aunty Barbie…. Aryan uncle ne dress di hai… (Vishal glanced at Sri's bed full of gift wraps and dolls) To aap bhi kuch laaye honge! Aap to hamesha mere liye laate ho! Itne gifts mere b'day par hi milte hain aur vo to only one time hai…. (Tapping her chin) I think mujhe again and again sick hona chahiye!

Dipika: (Stunned) SRI! 😲

At this Vishal smiled and shaking his head said….

Vishal: Sri beta! Aapko gift chahiye to main roz aapko doonga... Lekin is tarah baat nahi karte…. Aap agar sick hote ho to hum sab ko sad hota hai! Hmm?

Sri: (Meekly) Sorry uncle! 😔

Vishal smiled "Its okay" and then indicated Dipika to her who had become a little upset by her comment…

Sri: (Meekly) Sorry Mamma…

Dipika turned her head away…. Sri wiggled out Vishal's grip and came around the bed and looking up forlornly at her mother said…

Sri: (Hands on her ears) Sorry Mamma… Sri will not tell again! 😒

Dipika looked down at Sri and pulled her hands down… Smiling a little she picked her up and put her on bed… But she didn't say anything…. But for Sri she had to speak….

Sri: (Upset herself) Mamma still upset!

Dipika: (Smiling and moving Sri's hair out of her face) Nai… Mamma is not upset…. Bas phir se aisa mat kahiyega!

Sri: (Fingers on her throat) Promise! Nai kahoongi… Main apni gift loon? ❓

At this everyone smiled seeing that Sri was still intent on her gift…. Seeing Dipika nod agreement Sri turned around on the bed and extended her hand to Vishal…. 😊

At this Vishal chuckled again indicated behind him… Sri tilted her head sideways and looked behind him… Vishal's mother was standing there with a gift in her hand….

Only then did everyone else realize too that even Vishal's mother was there….

Dipika and Aryan went over to her… Coincidentally only…. But both of them bent to take her blessings at the same time…. 😉

Surprised Vishal's mother looked at them and the others who were equally surprised… Seeing this Vishal indicated his mother to hurry up with her blessing… 😳

Only after bending did both Dipika and Aryan realize they had bent down at the same time… Before they could compose themselves and straighten Vishal's mother had placed her hands on their heads….

Mrs. Malhotra: (Smiling) Saath saath khush raho!

Dipika and Aryan glanced at each other once and straightened…. They immediately looked away… Dipika came back to Sri while Aryan joined the others by the couch…. They didn't glance at each other again…. The others rejoiced seeing them both like this…. Time and again things were indicating them to get together, but still they didn't agree to it! Whatever?!?!? But something was bound to happen soon! 👍🏼

The others also wished Mrs. Malhotra… Neha and Ajay taking blessings from her and of course her blessing to them was to have a happy married life ahead…. 😳

Mrs. Malhotra: (Going over to Sri) Ye lijiye aapki gift!

Sri took the gift and turning it over few times, looked up at Mrs. Malhotra and said…

Sri: Thank you aunty!

Mrs. Malhotra: (Kissing her on her head) Aunty nahi… Daadi kaho…. Itni badi to ho hi gayi hoon main! Aapke uncle ki maa jo hoon!

At this Dipika and Aryan glanced at each other…. Everyone also looked at each other and at them…. It was an open fact that Mrs. Malhotra's words had double meaning in them…. And also that everyone understood that!

Sri went busy unwrapping Vishal's gift…

Dipika finally composing came over to Mrs. Malhotra….

Dipika: Kaise hain aunty?

Mrs. Malhotra: Achchi hoon… Do din ho gaye mere aaye.... (Glancing at Vishal) Bas is mister ka kuch intezaam karke hi is baar jaane waali hoon!

Aryan came over to Mrs. Malhotra and placed his hands over her shoulder…. Looking up at Vishal…..

Aryan: Theek kaha Maasi Maa… Iski bahut zaroorat hai… Aaj kal bahut zabaan chalne laga hai iski! Kaatne ke liye kisi ko to hona chahiye! 😈

Vishal glared back at him understanding that Aryan was indicating about him teasing Aryan…. Aryan looked back eye not batting and smiling…. 😡

Vishal: Ab hum yahan Boxer ke problem ko solve kar rahe the…. Humari baat baad me ho sakti hai…. Baad me dekhenge kise katna hai, kya katna hai… Kiske pairon ko baandana hai!

Saying Vishal went to Boxer as the others smiled at his retort which of course had double meaning in it again involving Dipika with Aryan…. Aryan glared at him and became normal hearing to Boxer's and his conversation!

Boxer: Vishal tum kya keh rahe the?

Vishal: Haan Boxer! Best hospital ki best child birth specialist hai vo… Hum sab use bahut achchi tarah se jaante hain!

At this everyone understood whom Vishal was indicating as Ajay and Neha exclaimed….

"DR. SANDHYA AGARWAL" ⭐️

Vishal: (Smiling) Haan Sandhya....

Boxer's worried expression vanished and was replaced by a slow smile... Of course who could be a better doctor than the one they knew… Of course more than Dipika and Vishal none of the others knew Sandhya so much personally…. But professionally they all knew she was the best doctor Mumbai city had got… Maybe nation's best too! 👏

Just then Dipika eyes fell on the door and she saw Sandhya there looking at Vishal talking to Boxer surprised…. 😊

Vishal: (Continuing) Sandhya se best child birth specialist?!?!? Main nahi jaanta koi ho sakta hai… Maine dekha hai use… Bahut hi tough case tha Boxer and she has treated it very well… Ab Haseena to bilkul theek hai… So it should be no problem!

At this Dipika and Mrs. Malhotra looked at each other smiling…. They knew he liked her but so far as to praise her in her profession!?!? They had never thought…. Others too exchanged smiling glances as Vishal praised Sandhya…😳

Dipika glanced towards the door again… There was pride on her face knowing that Vishal knew how well as a doctor she was…. Who wouldn't like praises? And that too from someone you love so much!❤️

Vishal: Aur to aur ye hospital tumhare ghar ke paas hi hai… Isliye treatment lena bhi aasaan hoga… Haseena will be in safe hands… You can trust me….

Vishal stopped his sentence mid way when he chanced to look up and saw Sandhya standing there smiling even more when Vishal said "trust"…. Trust him for her! That was nice! That was surprising!😳

Seeing him stop suddenly everyone's attention turned to the door and seeing Sandhya there their smiles broadened…. Sandhya walked in looking at Vishal…

Seeing Mrs. Malhotra she smiled taking her blessings….

Sandhya: Hi… M… (Stopping glancing at Vishal) Aunty…

She wished the others too and went over to Sri… Checking Sri's pulse….

Sandhya: (To Dipika) Doctor check up karne aaye? (She glanced at Vishal…)

Dipika: Haan… Just one hour back…. Said she is doing fine…. (Seeing her glance at Vishal she also looked at him…. He was looking down😕)

Sandhya: Good…. (Checking Sri's eyes) She is doing fine… Surprisingly she is recovering fast…. (Patting her cheeks) Good to see that! (Glancing at Vishal who still wasn't looking up…. 😔 She looked at her watch) Bas Sri ko dekhne aayi thi!

Seeing everybody around she hesitated a moment and said….

Sandhya: Er.. Sri ko over excite hone mat dena… Kuch nahi, bas excitement ki wajah se thoda weak feel kar sakti hai….

Dipika smiled understanding that Sandhya was indicating the crowd in the room which was not actually allowed in a hospital!

Sandhya: Fine then… Main chalti hoon…

Saying she went and gave Dipika a hug… She looked at Vishal who still hadn't looked up…. Sandhya glared at him and parted from Dipika… 😡

Sandhya: (To Mrs. Malhotra) Main chalti hoon aunty…. (Glancing at Vishal again)

Saying Sandhya wished the others too and before leaving the room……..

Sandhya: Abbas ji! Agar aap aur aapki biwi chahate hain to kal subah das baje meri appointment aapki…. Aate waqt Haseena ke poorane reports zaroor layiyega! 😊

Surprised Boxer nodded and looked at Vishal who still hadn't raised his head… Sandhya left the room without another glance backwards….

As soon as she left…. Vishal raised his head to look at the door…. The others were looking at him, in fact staring at him for been so ignoring about her…. Seeing everybody stare at him Vishal said sternly….

Vishal: What? ❓

Immediately everybody looked away except Dipika who glared at him… Can't he even look at her once? Praised her so much…. Which clearly meant he respected her…. Like her… Then why!?!? 😡

Vishal looked at Dipika for a while…. Then….

Vishal: (Standing up) Main…. Main abhi aata hoon!

Saying Vishal left the room hurriedly…. Shaking her head Dipika looked at Mrs. Malhotra who was also upset by his behaviour…

More and more about Vishal's actions said that he liked Sandhya… More like he knew everything about her…. But still he kept a distance away from her!!!! 🥺

There was silence in the room for few moments…. After which Neha said….

Neha: I think hume ab chalna chahiye…. It's getting late! Ajay!

Ajay nodded in agreement getting up, looking at Boxer who also got up…

Neha: (Smiling kissing Sri on her forehead) Bye Sri! Take care! Kal phir aake milenge!

Sri bade bye as Dipika smiled at them…. The three of them bade bye and left….

Aryan waited for few moments and looked up… He wanted to ask something but hesitated…. Mrs. Malhotra was watching him and Dipika… She smiled and said….

Mrs. Malhotra: Lagta hai mujhe bhi chalna chahiye…. Main Vishal ko dekhke aati hoon!

Saying Mrs. Malhotra left the room….. Dipika glanced at Aryan who was looking at her… He came to her and said….

Aryan: Vo…. Sorry about that blessing thing…. I…. It was by mistake!

Dipika didn't answer anything and just watched him…. He then said….

Aryan: Shall I get your dinner before you leave? ❓

Dipika: (Remembering) Oh! Aryan…. Maine aaj Vishal se kaha hai ki vo aaj raat yahan ruke!

Aryan looked at her surprised clearly indicating he didn't like the arrangement…. Seeing his upset face…. 😔

Dipika: Aryan! Mujhe pata hai tum kal raat bilkul nahi soye aur aaj poora din investigation me hi beet gaya hoga…. Tumhe to rest karne ko mouka hi nahi mila hoga…. Agar tumhe phir se kuch ho gaya to main…

Dipika stopped clearly concern and worry shown on her face…. They shared a few moments of eye to eye contact… The silence in the room made their hearts speak and listen…. She was in fact telling him, begging him to take rest…. Finally Aryan smiled…. Dipika was already under stress and he didn't want her to worry about him too….

Aryan: I understand… Main ghar jaoonga….

Dipika: (Smiling) Thank you! 😊

Aryan: No… Thank you!

For few more moments they looked at each other when the door opened and Vishal poked his head in….

Vishal: Oie Aru!

Aryan and Dipika broke their eye contact and looked behind….

Vishal: Chal raha hai? Maa ko ghar chodna hai…. Tumhe pata hai naa main aaj raat yahan rukne waala hoon?

Aryan: (Rolling his eyes exasperated)🤔 Haan haan… Pata hai… Aa raha hoon…

Vishal: Right…. Neeche wait karta hoon…. (To Dipika) Maa ko bhejhke aata hoon…. Tum kab nikal rahi ho?

Dipika: Sri ko dinner dene ke baad… Abhi thodi time hai….

Vishal: Fine then.... Aru neeche jaldi aa…. (To himself but heard a little😉) Gutargoo baad me kar!

Grinning he left as Dipika blushed having heard what he had said…. 😃

Aryan: Vo aur vo! (To Dipika) Main chalta hoon… Er… Shall I wait ? Tumhe drop kar doon?

Dipika: Nai Aryan... Meri gaadi hai... Do din ho gaye yaheen park ki hui hai… Fuel bhi daalna hai… I'll manage!

Aryan: Theek hai.... Good night!

Aryan looked at the bed and saw Sri was looking at the story books….

Aryan: (Smiling) Sri! Uncle chalte hain…. (Kissing her) Meet you tomorrow! Bye!

Sri: Bye uncle!

Aryan looked at Dipika and left…. Dipika saw him go and smiled… Something about his presence always found solace in her…. And she scolded him for saying sorry for the blessing incident.... Because she wished it to become true and found nothing wrong in it! 😉

She smiled and looked at Sri reading the book… She looked at her bed full of gift wraps and covers and gifts…. Everyone seemed to like Sri very much.... She sat down beside her and collecting all the paper said…

Dipika: Sri! Aapko sab kaise lage? ❓

As Sri looked up from her book questioningly Dipika repeated….

Dipika: Nai... Aap pehli baar Mamma ke friends se mil rahe ho naa, isliye poocha....

Sri: (Pausing to think) Hmm... Sab achche hain…. Sri liked everyone…. Sab Sri ko bhi like karte hain…. Ajay uncle, Neha aunty bahut funny hain…. Boxer uncle ko pata hai Sri kya books like karti hai… Sandhya aunty very good…. Daadi bhi achchi hain….

Dipika: (Slowly) Aur Aryan uncle? ❓

Sri looked at her shrinking her eyes…. After a much bigger pause than before Sri said…

Sri: Lekin main to Aryan uncle ko first time nahi mil rahi?!

That was all…. She went back to reading her book… Dipika looked at her expecting her to tell more about Aryan… Because especially she knew for three days now.... But Sri was buried deep in her book… She smiled to herself and started cleaning the bed…. What was she expecting Sri to tell?!?

Dipika: (To Sri) Sri beta.... Aap yaheen rehenaa..... Mamma aapke liye milk lene jaa rahi hoon! Okay?

Before Sri could even nod….

Vishal: Not okay!

Dipika turned to the door and saw Vishal coming in with packets in his hand…..

Dipika: Vishal! (Getting the packets from him) Ye sab?

Vishal: Our dinner.... Aur Sri's milk...

Saying he extended a flask....

Dipika: Ye flask? Tum kab le gaye? ❓

Vishal: Oh ho... Neeche canteen se borrow karke laaya... Kal return kar denge…. Ab Sri ko milk do….

Dipika nodded and started pouring milk for her as Vishal unpacked their dinner...

Dipika: Aunty chali gayeen?

Vishal: Hmm... Abhi abhi.... Told Aryan to get her dinner... Kyun khamkhaan ghar me banana…. She should also have rest sometimes naa!

Dipika: (Going to Sri with the milk and bread) Unhe sirf ek raat kitchen se rest dilvane se kya hoga Vishal?

Saying she extended the milk to Sri who made a pity face….

Sri: Mamma! Dood nai... Please!

Dipika: (Sternly) Sri! Tumhari to roz ye aadat ho gayi hai.... Pune me naani se to bach jaati ho dood naa peeke, lekin mujhse nahi…. Chup chaap peeyo…

Sri made a face while Dipika dipped the bread in milk and gave her… She glanced at Vishal who was looking at her with a "Oh no! Not again" look….

Dipika: Aise mat dekho.... Aunty ke man me jo kuch bhi hai maine wahi kaha hai.... She would like someone to help her out…. (As Vishal opened his mouth to retort) And that is not a servant…. Vishal! Aunty aur uncle chahate hain ki vo tumhare saath rahe…. Uncle to apne business ko apne partners ko hand over karke Mumbai hi aane chahate hain…. Lekin tum hi nahi maan rahe…. You get settled, then they too get settled…

Vishal: Uske ke liye abhi waqt hai Dipika....

Dipika: (Softly) Waqt ka kya bharosa Vishal.... We never know what happens when…. Aur tum kis waqt ke liye wait kar rahe ho…. Ab kya hua? 🤔

Vishal: Dipika! Shall we call it quits.... Tumhe pata hai main manane waala nahi hoon to kyun baat karna? Tum jaldi Sri ko khilake aao…. Mujhe bahut bhook lagi hai!

Saying Vishal made a hungry expression seeing which Sri laughed… Vishal winked at her as Dipika smiled…. He always knew how to change topics..... She finished feeding Sri and had dinner with Vishal….

After cleaning…. Dipika gave medicines to Sri…. She put her to bed and waited till she went off to sleep….

Vishal: Dipika…. It's getting late…. Tumhe drive karke itni door jaana hai…. Tum nikalo… Main Sri ko sula doonga…

Dipika: But....

Vishal: No buts....

Vishal indicated to Sri who also said….

Sri: Haan Mamma.... Aap jao... Vishal uncle hain naa!

Dipika: Theek hai meri naani maa.... (Giving her a good night kiss) Bye! Good night!

Saying she picked her small bag and biding Sri bye left the room… Before she could leave the room Sri called out to her….

Sri: Mamma! Ghar se mere color pencils laana please! 😊

Dipika nodded smiling and throwing Sri a flying kiss left…. Just as Dipika left the room the night duty nurse came for the usual checks…

Vishal: Nurse aap thodi der yahan rahengi… Main abhi dus minute me aata hoon…. (The nurse nodded looking at Sri's chart) Sri! Aap yaheen rahiye.... Main Mamma ko bhejh ke aata hoon...

Sri nodded and Vishal left the room hurrying up to catch up with Dipika….

Dipika had just rounded the corner to the reception area when Vishal caught up with her….

Dipika: (Surprised) Vishal! Tum yahan? ❓

Vishal: Nothing... Thought of walking you to the car…. Sri ke paas ek nurse hai….

Dipika nodded and both started walking out… Just as they reached the reception area they heard a voice….

Sandhya: Maa... Aap itni raat ko yahan kya kar rahe ho?

Aadhya: You tell her! Vo khud aayeen aur mujhe bhi saath kheench laayi hai!

Mrs. Agarwal: (Sternly) Aadhya! (To Sandhya) Phir main kya karti? Do din ho gaye…. Tu ghar aayi hi nahi… Hospital me hi rahi…. Aur phir yahan ka khana? Pata hai hospital me achcha khana hi milta hai… Lekin tu nahi khayegi ye bhi pata hai mujhe…… Apne kaam me itni busy ho jaati ho.... Mujhe tab tak tasalli nahi hogi jab tak main tumhe apne haathon se kuch naa doon….

Sandhya: Maa! (Hugging her mother) Main ek doctor hoon.... Mujhe apna khayal rakhna aata hai… Maine kaha naa aaj ek surgery patient ko under observation rakha hai…. Isliye mujhe aaj raat ko yahan rukna pad raha hai!

Mrs. Agarwal: Roz to yahi bahana banati ho... Ab chalo pehle khaana kha lo, baad me jo kaam hai kar lena….

Sandhya: (Indignantly) Maa! Aapne time dekhi hai? Mujhe apni night rounds ka waqt ho gaya hai…. Ab kaise dinner kar sakti hoon? Lekin promise…. Rounds ke baad zaroor kha loongi…. Aap aur Aadhya ghar chaliye…. Bahut der ho rahi hai!

Aadhya: Yaa! My television show is getting missed... Aaj Ruksaar ka performance dekhna hai mujhe!

Sandhya: Aadhya! Tumhe un reality shows ke alava kuch soojta nahi hai? Padne ka irada hai bhi ki nahi…….

Aadhya: (Exasperated) Oh ho Di! Kal hi to exams khatam hue hain…. Ab ek maheena hai college ke liye!

Sandhya: (Smiling) Achcha baba sorry... Ab maa ko ghar leke jaao…. Main ek taxi mangava deti hoon!

Aadhya: Aaye tab naa! (Crossing her arms)

Dipika: Aunty! 😊

Mrs. Agarwal, Aadhya and Sandhya looked up to see Dipika and Vishal standing there.... They stood up surprised.....

Mrs. Agarwal: Dipika! (Smiling) Tumhari beti kaisi hai?

Dipika: (Glancing at Sandhya) Achchi hai aunty…. Aapki beti ko hi thanks kehena hai!

Sandhya: Dipika… Jaise maine Sri ki treatment ki hai…. Doosre doctor ne ki hai….

Dipika: Thanks Sri ke liye hi nahi mere liye bhi…. Tumhare moral support ke bina to I would have really lost my mind!

Sandhya shook her head smiling and glanced at Vishal…. He was looking elsewhere…. 😒

Dipika: Aunty ye Vishal…. Aap…

Behind Mrs. Agarwal's back Sandhya shook her head urgently…. Dipika stopped midway understanding that Sandhya hadn't informed about Vishal to her parents yet….

Dipika: Mere bahut achche dost!

Mrs.Agarwal: Haan yaad hai… Us din ghar aaye the ne aap… Ek case ke baare me Sandhya se baat karne! (Thinking about months back)

Vishal: Ji! 😊 (Just looked at Mrs. Agarwal even though Sandhya was in view)

Dipika: Sandhya… Aunty ghar jaa rahi hain? ❓

Sandhya: Haan… Mere liye dinner leke aayi thi…. Even though I said no....

Dipika: Main bhi ghar hi jaa rahi hoon…. Raaste me hi hai naa… Drop kar doongi!

Sandhya: No problem Dipika…. No need to trouble yourself....

Dipika: No problem Sandhya…. (To Mrs. Agarwal) Aap chaliye aunty…. (To Vishal) Main chalti hoon Vishal… Tum room jao… Sri akeli hogi….

Saying Dipika left with Mrs. Agarwal and Aadhya…. Sandhya watched them go… She picked her hot case and turned to go when she saw Vishal hurriedly averting his eyes… Shaking her head she went off without a word to him… 😡

Thinking he went back to the room…. How wrong he was! Women are not so easily give in types…. They can be denied things…. They would understand…. But they need reasons for that without which they damn don't allow been neglected… And a stubborn woman like Sandhya would never give in without knowing the real reason…. A valid reason that too! ⭐️

When Vishal entered the room Sri was up again reading her book….

Vishal: (Sitting beside her) Sri… Aapne medicines li hai…. (Taking the book and closing it) Aapko ab tak dream land me hona chahiye tha.…. Jagke kya kar rahi ho?

Sri: Aapki wait….

Vishal: (Surprised) Meri wait? ❓

Sri: Haan aapse kuch poochna tha!

Vishal: Well…. Kal pooch lena… Ab aap so jayiye….

Sri: Nai… Abbhii….

Vishal: Alright…. Kya poochna hai madam? Poochiye!

Sri: Aapko pata hai… Jab sab gaye…. Aryan uncle aur Mamma the naa yahan…. (Thinking) Vo ek doosre ko dekh rahe the…. (Calling a surprised Vishal near) Mamma's face was you know pink! Maine kabhi Mamma ko waisa nahi dekha…. Aapne dekha hai? 🤔

Vishal stared at Sri not knowing how to react…. Laugh… Shock….. He was speechless…. What and all do kids these days notice!?!?? 😲

Indeed…. When Dipika and Aryan where looking at each other Sri had chanced to look up to ask her Dipika get her colors from home…. But she looked up to see Aryan and Dipika look at each other intently… She had got on her knees and gone closer to them too, but they hadn't noticed…. It was strange… Her mother had never neglected her call any time before… But now!?!?? She left them alone…. Time and again she looked up and saw they still held that position… Strange…. Very strange…. Also Dipika had specifically asked her about Aryan, which was the first time Dipika was asking about any one so particularly….. She knew there was something different going on there…. Hadn't she seen in films and heard about it very often…. She wanted to solve this mystery…. But ask whom? While she was in this thought only Vishal had poked in his head… And she knew whom to ask… Dipika had said Vishal was her best friend... So he would definitely know!

Sri: (Shaking Vishal) UNCLE!!

Vishal was staring at Sri stunned at such a question…. Here he was thinking about how to explain the relationship between Aryan and Dipika so that she can help them bring them even more closer and accept their relationship…. And here Sri was asking what was cooking up between them two!?!?!? 😆

He came out of his stunned thoughts at Sri's call….

Vishal: Ha… Haan…Sri!

Sri: Ab aap kahan kho gaye!?!? ❓

Vishal: (Pulling her on to his lap) Well… Kaheen nahi…. Main thode pyaar me hoon? (A pang of guilt sprang in his heart for a moment)

Sri twisted around in her lap looking up at Vishal surprised…. She raised her eyebrows suspiciously…..

Sri: Pyaar?!?!? Aap nahi… Matlab Mamma?!!?

Vishal: (Impressed😛) Are wah Sri…. Bahut achchi tarah identify kar li!

Sri: Mamma likes Aryan uncle? ❓

Vishal: Haan… More than like… Vo unhe bahut pasand karte hain…

Sri: OH!!!!! Lekin Mamma ne kuch nahi kaha?

Vishal: Wahi to…. Humse hi nahi kaha… Ek doosre se bhi kuch nahi kaha…. Hamesha ladte rehete hain… Ya phir kuch confusion me rehete hain….

Sri: OH! Phir? Ab kya karna hai?

Vishal: Jo kuch bhi karna hai hum karenge…. Lekin ussse pehle main tumse (Stressing) kuch poochna chahata hoon… Agar Aryan uncle tumhare saath tumhare ghar me rahe to tumhe achcha lagega?

Sri looked at Vishal for a long time thoughtful…. She didn't exactly understand what Vishal was saying…. Understanding her confusion he re phrased his question….

Vishal: Aryan tumhare ghar, tumhare aur Mamma ke saath…. Tumhare Pappa banke rahe to?

At this Sri leapt from Vishal's lap and turned around, kneeling on the bed to look at him properly…. She tilted her head for long time and looked at him…. Vishal quiet didn't understand that look she gave….

Sri: Pappa?!!?? ❓

She narrowed her eyes and various thoughts swam through her mind…. Yes.… Dipika hadn't made Sri realize that a father figure wasn't there in her life…. But Sri did get sad whenever she saw both the parents of children come to school…. They sat together, ate together, played together…. She had heard her friends saying about their father taking them out to picnics…. Giving them rides on motor bikes…. Buying them strange gifts for which their mothers scolded them and finally both her friend and her father used to persuade their mothers…. Lots and lots of stories…. But Sri had never mentioned or asked about her father to Dipika…. Just once she had asked and Dipika had said she was everything for Sri…. Sri had left it at that…. And months before she had heard about her father…. But that was just her past…. Horrible past… And Sri never asked about her parents again!

But now…. Pappa!?!?!? ❓

Vishal looked at Sri wondering what she was thinking… Would she agree??? Because if she didn't… She knew Dipika would never agree to her relationship with Aryan…. For her, her first responsibility was Sri…. And will always be!

Sri finally looked at Vishal and her face slowly split into a smile….

Sri: Such me uncle humare saath rahenge???? Really? Really? Pappa banke?

Vishal sighed relieved as her pulled her closer and kissed her on her head… Sri pushed him off and again asked….

Sri: Boliye naa uncle…. Such me uncle mere saath mere Pappa banke rahenge?

Vishal: (Taking her tiny hands and promising) Such me…. Lekin uske liye aapki help chahiye!

Sri: (Jumping up) Oh Uncle! Anything…. Agar Mamma happy to Sri bhi happy…. I do anything!

Vishal: Great! To suno… Tumhe naa Aryan uncle aur tumhare Mamma ko hamesha saath rakhna hai…. We have to bring them closer…. Humne try bahut ki hai…. Lekin hamesha kuch bahana doondh lete hain to go away… Tum naa, Mamma se kehena ki tumhe Aryan uncle bahut pasand hai…. Tum unhe hamesha apne saath rehena chahogi… Lekin haan Mamma se openly nahi keh sakte….

As Sri looked confused a little at Vishal he explained to her various situations where Sri could act like it was normal and Aryan and Dipika would get together often… Sri was intelligent…. She hadn't got the best student award continuously for five years for nothing… She understood things very much faster than any other kid for her age…. ⭐️

After explaining various situations that might crop up and how Sri should handle it, she was satisfied…. Vishal smiling held out his hand and Sri clapped on his palm…. They both hugged each other celebrating their plan of action….

Vishal: Lekin take care... Mamma ya Aryan uncle ko is baare me pata nahi chalna chahiye, jo aap kar rahe ho... (Sri nodded eanerstly) Ab aap so jayiye…. Baut late ho gayi hai… Kal se plan ko action me daalne hai!

He winked at her and giving her a good night kiss, pulled on her blanket…. He switched off the lights leaving a night lamp alone and went to the cupboard…. Pulling out the spare pillow and blanket he lay down on the couch….

Finally… His plan was getting into action… With Sri as mediator there would be no doubt that Aryan and Dipika would get closer…. Situations just had to come up…. Or they had to create situations…. Which was of course very easy…. He smiled thinking about what was going to happen in the next few days….. With Sri no one would suspect anything too… It was her innocence which was going to make the game work! 😉

He smiled and closed his eyes! 🥱

Mid night….

Vishal was awoken up by a loud…. "MAMMA!!!!!"

Puzzled Vishal looked here and there…. He was first confused about where he was…. Then he remembered…. He was in the hospital…. SRI!!!!!!!!!!!!

He immediately looked towards the bed and saw that Sri was awake crying…. Hurriedly he switched on the light and went to her….

Vishal: (Sitting beside Sri) Sri! Kya hua?

Sri: (Crying) Ma… Mamma…. Mujhe.... Ma... Mamma.... chahiye!

Vishal: Ma… Mamma!??! Is waqt?!?! Kya hua Sri? Koi bura sapna dekha kya??

Saying he hugged her, but Sri started crying more uncontrollably....

Vishal: Sri please…. Rona mat…. Mamma ab kaise aa sakti hai? Time bahut ho gaya hai... Dekha raat ke ek baje hain beta....

Sri: Nai… Mujhe Mamma chahiye!😭

Saying Sri got down from the bed and ran off to a corner and sat there hugging her knees and cried…. Vishal tried to stop her from crying... But whatever he did Sri didn't even look up at him....

He became worried and thought of calling up Dipika…. But he knew she would become very tensed if he phoned her in the mid of the night….. And Sri's cries were becoming uncontrollable…. 😕

Later when he thought of the incident, he was surprised as to why his fingers dialed Sandhya's number instead of Dipika…. He hadn't even thought about calling her…. But his fingers did, it seems!😉

However love and affection and dearness a man shows to a child… It searches for the care of a woman…. Something in every woman reminds it of it's mother…. The touch…. The feel in itself was different…. Even if a woman wasn't a mother.... The mother hood was always there! 👍🏼

Maybe Vishal knew this sub consciously because of which he dialed Sandhya's number! And sub consciously he was reminded that she was in the hospital!❤️

In her room….

Sandhya had just changed from her saree to a satin night gown…. She finished signing of the papers of a patient to be discharged that morning when her cell buzzed…. She was just tying up her hair, when she looked at the mobile on her table and was surprised to see it was Vishal's number!

Sandhya: Hello!

………………..

Sandhya: Oh! Main bhi aayi!

Saying Sandhya cut the call and hurried over to Sri's room…. She forgot to pull on her night gown's top…. When Sandhya came down the stairs she saw Vishal pacing outside Sri's room worried….

Sandhya: (Hurrying towards him) Kya hua?

Vishal: Pata nahi… Achanak Mamma chillati hui uth gayi aur rona shuru kar diya....

Sandhya: Shayad koi bura sapna dekha hoga usne…. Bas....

Vishal: (Interrupting) Oh! Maine use sambhaalne ki bahut koshish ki naa… Lekin pata nahi…. Ek kone me baithke Mamma Mamma karti ro rahi hai!

Sandhya nodded and hurried inside.... Vishal stood out for a moment and then followed her in…. But stood near the door!

Sandhya went inside and stood near the door for a moment…. She saw Sri in a corner, head in between her knees crying… She slowly went over to her taking care not to startle her…. She sat down beside her and called out softly….

Sandhya: Sri!

Sri shrunk back further indicating she didn't want to talk to anyone…..

Sandhya: (Softly) Sri beta! Main... Sandhya aunty.... Aap humse baat nai karogi?

Sri: Nai… Mujhe Mamma chahiye…. (Sniffing) 😭

Sandhya: Mamma! Theek hai… Mamma aa jayengi.... Unhe phone kar diya hai.... Lekin Mamma ko ghar se yahan aane me der lagegi naa…. Tab tak aap aunty ko bataiye kya baat hai!

Sri didn't answer anything.... Sandhya waited besides her.... Making her sense that she was still there…. After quiet a long time still crying Sri looked up to see Sandhya sitting in front of her…. Immediately Sri got up and hugging Sri cried even more….

Without speaking anything Sandhya let Sri cry but just stroked her hair…. After much time Sri's cry decreased…. In the process Sandhya's hand touched Sri's arms she got concerned… Because Sri had slight fever….

Sri: Aunty! Mujhe… (Sniff) Mujhe… (Hic) Dar lag…

Sandhya: (Rocking lightly) Dar?!?! Sri ne koi bura sapna dekha? ❓

Sri nodded on Sandhya's shoulder which Sandhya felt….

Sandhya parted from Sri and made her sit on her lap… Then wiping her tears smiled and said….

Sandhya: Bas itna!? Aapko yaad hai aapne kya dekha?

Sri looked fearful and thoughtful and then shook her head....

Sandhya: Dekha…. Bad dream…. Chala gaya…. Ye bad dream hai naa…. Sabko darata hai…. Mujhe bhi darata hai… Bad dreams isliye bad hain…. Lekin Sri brave hai naa…. Sri ko to dar nahi lagega…. 😊

Sri looked at her still upset…. Smiling Sandhya said….

Sandhya: Main aapko ek magic dikhaoon?

Sri's eyes immediately lit as she looked expectantly at Sandhya who said….

Sandhya: Aur jab bhi aapko dar lage to us magic ko aap bhi kar sakte ho…. Ok?

As Sri nodded……

Sandhya: Usse pehle aapko ye khana hoga….

Saying Sandhya carried her to the bed…. She took a tablet and told Sri to open her mouth…. As Sri looked at the tablet hating it, Sandhya said….

Sandhya: Aap khaoge to magic jaldi dikaoongi… Warna late ho jayega…. 😊

Immediately Sri opened her mouth and Sandhya gave her the medicine and water….

Sandhya: (Closing Sri's eyes) Ab aap apne eyes close karo…

Sandhya then lifted Sri hugging her from front…. She then went over to the window and opened it…. A soft breeze blew in automatically making Sri smile a little as she felt the chill breeze on her face…. 😳

Sandhya: Ab aap upar ki taraf sir uthao!

Sri did so… And slowly Sandhya moved her hand off Sri's eyes…. She looked on surprised and awed by the sight in front of her… At least…. Top of her… So many tiny stars twinkling…. And the moon was a good half moon suspended in the air…. ⭐️

Sandhya: Ab aap main jo kehti hoon vo sunengi…. Theek? ❓

Sri nodded…. Sandhya then sat down on the window sill which was a little broader…. One leg on the ground… She then turned Sri and made her sit on her lap and caught her from both sides…. She made Sri rest her head on her and she started in a soft, very soft velvety voice….

Sandhya: (Rocking Sri slowly) Dekho…. Uuupar dekho..... Itne saare stars aur vo big white moon... Moon uncle kitne achche lag rahe hain…. Are dekho… Wahan upar… Moon uncle me ek Angel! Bilkul aap jaisi baithi hai…. Dekha upar se aapse haath hila rahi hai…. Aap bhi hilayiye….

Saying Sandhya raised Sri's hands and waved once and moved her hands over Sri's eyes and closed them again….😳

Sandhya: Angel kitni cute hai, hai naa? (She felt Sri nod against her) Chalo ab hum upar chalte hain…. Dekho…. Dekho... Moon uncle bhi uth gaye… Dekha full white dress me, hat bhi white hai unki… Are hand me ek white walking stick bhi hai…. Dekha Moon Uncle aap se haath mila rahe hain…. Angel aapko kuch de rahi hai!?!? Kya hai vo? It's a star…. White star!?!? Wow…. Hmm…. Doosre color stars collect karein? (The nod was lighter than before) Haan… Dekho Angel star tree se aapke liye pink color…. Blue…. Wow…. Green…. Itne saare stars?!?! Ek minute… Green star ko aapke hair me laga dete hain…. Sri is looking so beautiful.... Angel bula rahi hai…. Sri ko dance karna achcha lagta hai? (Just one nod) To chalo…. Angel ko haath do…. (In real Sri raised her hand which Sandhya caught and made light actions of dancing) Are Sri bahut achcha dance karti hai…. Are vo dekho… Moon Uncle ko ek star chase kar rahi hai…. Sri...

Sandhya looked down lightly and saw that Sri had closed her eyes and she was smiling… She was in her starry wonderland…. She had slept.... She tried to lift Sri but wondered how to turn her around without disturbing her sleep…. But before she could decide on anything Vishal came over and lightly carried Sri from Sandhya's lap… He took her to the bed and laid her on it…

He started to get the blanket from the foot of the bed when Sandhya also did the same…. Their hands touched…. They stopped for a moment and looked at each other…. Vishal moved away his hand and Sandhya covered Sri… She kissed her on her cheek and Sri's smile widened…. Must have felt the Angel had kissed her! 😳

Vishal sat beside Sri looking at her making sure she was really asleep…. When he looked up Sandhya was not there…. He looked around, gave Sri a glance and hurriedly left the room….

There was a soft yellow light on the corridor…. He saw her at wide window at the end of the corridor where she was standing, looking up at the sky…. He walked to her....

Vishal: Sorry and thanks!

Sandhya: (Without looking at him) Kis liye?

Vishal: (He was looking at her) Sorry… Tumhari neend kharab karne ke liye… Thanks… Sri ko sambhaalne ke liye…. I really was scared seeing her cry that way!

Sandhya: (Still looking up) Bachche hain.... They have their mood swings.... Aur dreams to unhe aati hi hai.... Lekin sorry aur thanks ki koi zaroorat nahi hai…. Sorry nahi… Kyunki main so nahi rahi thi…. Was just looking at some reports… No thank you… Because Sri meri patient hai aur use sambhaalna mera kaam… In fact mujhe tumhe thanks kehena chahiye, mujhe yahan bulane ke liye!

Vishal didn't answer and just looked at her… The moon light lighting her face…. She was looking gorgeous in it…. Vishal found his heart go out to her… This moment he couldn't control his heart…. He remembered the way she handled Sri… And now she herself looked like an Angel….

Sandhya: (Closing her eyes) Mujhe ye story meri maa sunati thi... When I was young and used to get scared… Aur baad me jab bhi dar lagta main khidki me khadi hoke aise upar dekhti… Aankhein band karke… That dream would flow in my mind… Aur mera saara dar door ho jaata…. Lekin aaj kal jo dar mujhe lagta hai use door karne ka raasta hi mujhe nahi pata…. Tumhe khone ka dar!

Saying Sandhya immediately turned to look at Vishal who was caught off guard…. Because he had moved so closer to her without him realizing…. And now their faces were inches away from each other…. Their hands were inches away on the window sill… Their eyes drowning into each others… Their hands inched towards each other and entwined on the window sill…

Vishal's hand smoothed on her bare arms and reached her neck as Sandhya felt sensation creeping in her… He untied her hair which fell softly on her shoulders…. Her soft gaze bore into his heart.... He inched more closely down to her lips…. Sandhya closed her eyes smiling a little….

But….

Wind blew Sandhya's hair in between them… The irritation bought Vishal out of his reverie… Seeing Sandhya so close he was stunned…. Immediately he slackened his grip which Sandhya felt and her eyes flew open…. She saw him scared, feeling guilty…..

Vishal: (Moving away from her) I… I… Am sorry!

Saying Vishal hurried of to Sri's room without a look backwards…. Stunned and hurt Sandhya looked the way he had left.... She felt her eyes brimming…. What was he doing? Why was he keeping away from her? She looked back at the sky and her tears flew down her cheeks....

Shaking her head, she hurried off to her room….

The rest of the night neither Sandhya nor Vishal slept….

He kept scolding himself for losing control with her…. He shouldn't have…. When he knew they could never come together….. Why was he doing it? Why was she doing it? She loved him so much…. And he knew he did too… But he never would like to see her hurt and alone….

Sandhya kept thinking back as to why he was keeping himself away from her.... It was not like he hated her…. He did like her…. Love her… Then what could be the matter that keeps him away from her? She was not a person to give up easily either… She would work on to win him… Win him from himself! ❤️

hi di how r u ???????
actually i m new to this forum , also i have been a silent reader of ur fanfiction😳
1 thing i really feel dat u r a fantabulous writer.............

Originally posted by: legends

hi di how r u ???????
actually i m new to this forum , also i have been a silent reader of ur fanfiction😳
1 thing i really feel dat u r a fantabulous writer.............

it was awesome.

hey krithika..................mind blowing yaaar.. toooooooooooooooooooo goooooood......

Dil kush kar ditta tussi,🤗
thhe Mhara maan ne bag bag kar diyo❤️ 🤗
Khub Bhalo 😃

me too haapy di ,great ⭐️,fantastic👏,mindblowing👏 ⭐️.
great gifts for Sri and for me as well.🥳
loved much.what to say ? As usual I will only say that u are a great writer.keep rocking with ur updates.⭐️

Only after bending did both Dipika and Aryan realize they had bent down at the same time' Before they could compose themselves and straighten Vishal's mother had placed her hands on their heads'

Mrs. Malhotra: (Smiling) Saath saath khush raho!

Sri was intelligent'. She hadn't got the best student award continuously for five years for nothing' She understood things very much faster than any other kid for her age'.

Sri will be in action soon.ab dhamaal hi dhammal.😉

lekin Vishal ko bhi line par lana hoga,dono bhai ek jaise hai.😕

Sandhya is so nice perfect for Vishu lekin use kuon samjhaye.He alsoknows how much he love her,lekin kehta nahi?😕

Soon there will be marriage of Ajay -Neha that means Party time for our officers.full dhammal.🥳 🥳

Di continue soon,Can't wait.looooooooooonnnngggggggg upppppdddaateee agaaaiin please.

tonight if possible.pllllleeeeeeeeesssseeeeeeeee

😛 hey di waiting eagerly for ur next update........................

plzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz hum garibo ko zyaada wait mat karanaa!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!