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The Gift of Love
"Please...", her voice broke. She sniffed back her tears and desperately held on him, as tightly as she could, not wanting to let go. She couldn't. Why was he going? She wanted to stop him, but it was like her heart was getting weak. Her nerves were frozen, her knees were quivering, and she was getting defeated.
I have to go...
His voice shook her to the core. She shook her head furiously, starting to gather herself up. She couldn't let him go, not this time. Her tears poured down endlessly and she pleaded him with her eyes,"Please...", she said again. It didn't have any effect. He came closer and smiled at her with his sad enchanting eyes. Softly ruffled her hair, kissed her forehead and put his arms around her. She sniffed again.
It was the same warmth in his embrace. The same love that she yearned for. The same eyes that made her smile, the same arms that comforted her. She hugged him tighter, knowing that no matter what she did, she couldn't stop him. Just like she couldn't stop Him. She looked up and affectionately kissed his cheek. She felt like a five-year old again, lost in the trances of time, in the darkened alleys of broken promises, in the isolation of love...Then when she finds a piece of her heart, why was Destiny wrenching it away?
I love you, sweetheart, you shouldn't cry, I'm here, you know, right?
She nodded among her tears. She felt so terribly helpless. She wanted everything to work out well. Her grip loosened on his shirt as fresh tears poured down. She glanced at his shirt, it was still blood red, just like the day he'd gone. The rest of him was unruffled; it was as if he had painted his shirt himself. He smiled up at her, and she held his hands once more. "I love you...", she whispered softly.
His smile reached up to his eyes, causing warmth to spread over her. Her tears slowly dried, and without words, he slipped his hands away from hers. She felt as if sand was gracefully passing through her. The darkness surrounded her, and she gazed till the bright light blinded her sight and then disappeared altogether. Her energy had drained out, her throat had lost its ways to bring out any sound, and she could only blink. Blink up at the darkness, seeing nothing at all, but a defeated life, a defeated herself.
She was losing herself again. She searched for her saviour, she searched for the ray of light that was bound deep down of her heart. The bright light peeked in and she held her heart to herself, waiting for him to reappear.
BANG!
The sound of the same gun made her senses freeze and she looked ahead to see him in the same position he was in. She rushed, but her feet wouldn't carry her, she tried to scream but no words came out, she frantically raised her hands, till her petite figure dropped to the ground as the bullet hit her.
...
"DAD!", she shouted to the silent surroundings. It was pitch dark outside her window but the graceful moonlight spread over her, glistening like a blessing. Removing the sheet over her, she sighed and walked over to her window. She felt the cool breeze on her face, calming her. The clock ticked slowly, indicating the time to be 3:55 a.m. in the night. What was she doing, she silently questioned herself.
She had no reason to live. Her family was gone..She hadn't known much about losing her Mom, since she hadn't even seen her.Padma Gupta, was her name...her dad talked so much about her. And now when she'd lost his dad even, she was broken. She had fallen in love, with Him...And the day they had a terrible ruckus, he was gone. Gone somewhere she couldn't find him.
Why had life been so unfair to her? Why had destiny taken away her Dad from her, whom she loved like her life, and knew that he was the only one whom she was living for? Why had He come to her life, why had they fallen in love, why had that name etched itself in her heart like that...Armaan...
The fault was hers. She had just let him go, had not even tried to bring him back. How could she? She didn't even have the strength to fight, when her Dad was in the hospital for cancer, she was all alone, and was helpless. She was weak, she knew. But for that weakness' did she have to pay such a big price? She had to lose Him and her Dad too?
She remembered so clearly, it was a rainy night. He was hurt, she knew. She shouldn't have said all that, that she thought he didn't care, that he was selfish. And all that, just because he had left her all alone and gone for a important meeting that he had, and he'd forgot to inform her. A petty issue to fight on, and she didn't even stop him. How stupid could she have been? But Armaan? Didn't he understand what she was going through and how much she needed him at the time? Just him? Didn't he understand? The doctor had just told her that they couldn't save her Dad, and she was walking in the rain, sniffing to herself. She denied, but deep down she wanted him to hug her and tell her everything was alright.
"Riddhima..." , his voice came from behind her. She didn't look behind. She didn't have the courage to show anyone what state she was in, not even him. "Come on'You'll get sick, lets go home'" , he said.
She moved his hand away, "Go away,Armaan'",she said hoarsely, walking further.
"Riddhima why are you doing this to yourself? You know how worried Uncle is?" , he pleaded.
"Why Do YOU Care? Just Go Away from my life..NO ONE CARES! I'm ALONE and HAPPY! DON'T SHOW YOUR SYMPATHY!", she yelled at him, warm tears spilling down her cheeks.
His expression hardened, "You think its SYMPATHY ? "
"I said, GO AWAY!"
"Forever?" , he asked in a tone that masked his emotions.
"FOREVER! GO!" , she yelled once more in finality.
And he was gone, somewhere..She didn't know. She wanted to find him, but where would she look? She had gone to every place possible , his relative's home, his Mom's house, his old farmhouse, his college, his workplace, his company branches..He was nowhere. NO-WHERE. He was just gone.
She hadn't realized how early time flew by. She was just standing by the window and staring at the moon and stars, thinking how they'd fallen in love with all those..Held hands and kissed, danced and cuddled. She felt so defeated. Her dream had been disturbing, it was not every day that she had a nightmare, that also about her father. She remembered what her Dad had said when he had breathed his last, " Don't lose him "
"Happy Birthday Ridzy!",she heard her best friend's voice behind her and smiled, surprised. There they were, all her friends, Nikki with a cake and others with gifts. She was 22, she thought faintly to herself. And she had forgotten her birthday, like every year. He would plan a date for her..They would go out to dinner together..He would tell her he loved her..
"Ridzy! Happy 22,Sweety!",her friends wished and hugged her one by one. It was almost morning. 5:02 am . She remembered how he'd be the first one to wish her. Her Dad too..it had been a month since she lost both Armaan and her Dad, and she was celebrating her birthday afterwards. She didn't deserve it.
'
The day passed by in a jiffy. It was dizzying..All the light and happiness, partying and smiles, gifts and adorations..It all looked so incomplete without her Dad's jokes and Him..His blue eyes, his husky voice..She wanted all of it. Blinking back her tears, she smiled at her friends.
"Riddhi..",she heard a voice and her heart thudded hard. She turned and without seeing the person she hugged her tight, crying softly in the warm embrace.
"Bua..",she choked out. Her Bua patted her back and ruffled her hair, she was closest to Riddhima after her Dad. Smiling up at her, she understood what Riddhima was going through.
"Happy Birthday beta'",she whispered and Riddhima wiped her tears and gave her a long look of sadness, loss and pain. Her Bua ran a hand through her hair and whispered,"Chal..Tera gift baki hai.."
She nodded among teary eyes. Bua led him to the courtyard, where a big shiny black SUV stood, proclaiming its glory . She gasped, she had pestered her Dad so much to get that car. Her tears resurfaced, and she looked at her Bua. Her Bua smiled. "Yeh le..",she whispered, handing her a letter.
My Dear Riddhima,
I know you are surprised to get this car you always wanted. I am sorry, sweetheart..I may not be there when you receive it, but I promise it's for the sake of your Bua. She is giving you this car. It is not my gift.
I shall not say much, because you know I can't talk much. I just want to say, A Very Happy birthday ,and my baccha. Live many more years, grow more beautiful, just like your Mom. Smile and face the world, for I am just by your side. I Love You Darling.
I have very less to pen down. I don't have any gift for you, except one I thought you might like. It is very precious to you, I know. It is like your life..I'm gifting you something rare, something one in a million. Make sure you don't lose the gift. Never Ever do that.
I Love You. Happy 22nd Birthday. Enjoy your day, my baccha, and remembered your Dad is still there with you. In your heart.
Now I suppose you look up to your gift .
Love, Dad.
She looked up with moist eyes. He silently emerged from behind the car, looking as handsome as ever. His blue eyes sparkled at her with love, with yearning. No words were required. They stood looking at each other , saying things they both wanted to hear. A month's separation had made their love stronger.
After what seemed like ages, he held out his arms to her. Crying, she enveloped herself in him, feeling herself live, feeling her heart thud with happiness, with the love she'd wanted. She felt herself to be stronger, her tears spilled, but she knew that if she spoke, she wouldn't just stop today.
"Armaan..",she said.
"I was so stupid, Riddhima..I'm so sorry, I should've known you needed me.."
"I need you now.Forever.",her voice choked.
"I Love you..",he said as she just placed her lips on his.
They both got their life back. Her father was still there as he'd said..In her heart. And he'd given her the gift she knew she would never ever lose. She would keep that gift in her, like a pulse to keep her alive.
Her father had given her her life. Her father had given her the Gift of Love.
By: Maitree
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She sat there with her back resting against the soft pillow with her laptop on her thighs.Her hands typing the name of the site as fast as she could.Luck wasn't on her side..Her net connection was super slow or that's what what she thought.She typed her user name which was 'cutiepie' following her password.
As the page was loading.She laughed at herself yet again.Cutiepie ? Who keeps that as a username.She could have gone with her real name but no she just had to make herself look dumb.As she was thinking she didn't realize when the page loaded.
She looked at her page.It was full of pink and her display picture of Shah Rukh Khan.She went to the messages section.Clicking on the last page her heart started thumping.She clicked on the last page which had the very 1st message she received by 'gamerboy'.She couldn't get her eyes of the message which read
Hey Cutiepie
I'm Gamerboy.Wanna be friends ?
P.S My real name is Armaan 😉
She quickly went on the last message she had received from him.Her eyes went to the date 31st December 2009.It was supposed to be a new year for her she had been so excited.She had so many plans for them but they all came crushing down with his last message ..
Hey Riddhima
First of all wishing you a happy new year.Hope the new year goes great for you.I don't really know how to say this but I don't think we can go ahead like this.I mean 4 years back it all looked nice and cool but right now I don't really think so.Any way I don't think I like you any more..Don't get me wrong I did like you.Believe me I did but now it's all so different.My actual friends are so much fun that I just can't get time to come here.I'm really sorry but I'm logging off from this site COMPLETELY.It was nice talking you.Bye...Have a good life
P.S You have amazing eyes.I've told you that before thought of saying for the last time 😊
That's it.Enough was enough.How long could she just keep going on the site and read messages which came 2 years ago.She checked her outbox only to find herself filled disappointment.None of her messages were read by him after this last message.What was up with her.She had a boy friend for good sake!A real one who she was right in front of her.Not some one over the internet.
But she knew the relationship she shared with Siddhant was short lived and may be today was the end of it.She had been sensing that Sid wanted to break up with her.He tried giving her hints but she played the dumb fool but today she would just set him free.
The sound of her phone buzzing got her out of her trance.It was a message by Siddhant.He asked her to come at his place at 7 for the party of New Years Party..but wait he messaged the address too and it was different than his house address.Shutting the LT she picked her phone up to call him..
"Hey Sid.Wassup with the different address ?? " she asked "Ohh yeah it's my cousin's place.We're going there..Uhm Riddhima should I come to pick you up ? " he asked her.She so wanted to refuse but she had decided she would break up with him before they left for the party so she just mumbled a yes..In return Sid told her to be ready by 6:45.
She kept her phone aside and went for a hot shower.That's the only thing which relaxed her.She remembered how much she had cried under this very shower two years ago.She recollected how she hugged herself.Trying to calm herself down and trying to accept it was all over between her and Armaan.
When she thought about it today she still felt like crying.It wouldn't be wrong if she said that she had lost her heart to Armaan.He was her 1st ever boyfriend and her 1st love.She remembered how many times she tried to call on the number he had given her to contact him but after that message it would come unavailable and a few days later not found.
Drying herself she picked her dress for the party.Choosing what to wear as a neck piece her eyes went to a heart shaped locket.She picked it up and caressed it.It was a gift by Armaan on Valentine's day in 2009.
She laughed at the memory of her waiting for the parcel to come.And when it came she rushed and signed the post and walked away.She decided to wear it today.It matched wit her dress any way.Putting her earings and bracelet she walked up to the living room which was empty.
Her parents had left for a party and as it was a New Years Eve party she knew they wouldn't be back by tomorrow.She switched on the TV..The re-telecast of F.R.I.E.N.D.S was coming on.She sighed.
"Why does every thing remind me of him!I've just seen his freakking photo and talked to him over the phone.That's it.We didn't meet.Then why does he mean so much to me now ? He said it's over long time back.Then why I am I hoping so much.Why do I go on the site hoping he has messaged me or check the outbox when I already know he hasn't read any message..or he won't message me now.Heck I don't know if still remembers me..He had got a good set of friends hadn't he ? So why will he remember a random chick he met over the net.Bas Riddhima enough.Kuch hi ghanto mai naya saal hai you're gonna forget that guy named Armaan existed in your life..It's a new start.."
She heard the bell ring.She rushed and opened to see Sid standing.He worn a casual T-Shirt."Erm Sid.We're going for a party so aren't you like under dressed ?" Riddhima asked."Who cares ? Let's go..Bro's pretty pumped up for this party."
"Uhh!Sid wait..Actually I want to say something" Sid turned around and gestured Riddhima to continue "Ehh see I know what you've been trying to tell me.I mean I do understand it was just that I wasn't just showing it to you but I thought as the New Year is coming.We'll just call it off.I mean why go around when we both know we're not into it right ?"
Sid just stood there..Trying to grasp that Riddhima actually said that.He'd been trying to say that for so long but he couldn't.."Ahh that's great.." He saw Riddhima's shocked face to the reply he just gave and said "I mean.I agree with you.It's just stupid to go around when we aren't into it."
Riddhima shook her head.There was awkward silence between them.To lighten it up she spoke "Break up ho gaya toh party mai nahi le ja rahe ho ?" Sid laughed and said "Arey no no..Of course I'm taking you.After all we're friends right ?"
The last bit was more of a question he was asking her.Smiling she replied "Come on Sid.We're friends..Of course we are.." Sid smiled and mumbled a 'great!'.
With that they reached the venue which was Sid's cousin's house.A whole lot of cars were parked.She realized this was party was a grand affair.It wasn't one of those small parties.
As she was walking to the entrance she thought about the people she might know.She realized.She knew no one except Sid.What the heck was she going to do.Wasn't New Years all about being with your close ones.She didn't even know the people forget being close.
Just to try her luck she asked.."Errmm Sid.Do I know any one here?" After a moment or two.Sid replied with "No."..Her expression was priceless!"SID!What the heck am I gonna do here ? I mean I am not even dating you so why would I meet your cousins ? They'll think it's all getting serious between us when we already broke it off.Oh My God!This might be so embarrassing.Now speak you idiot!What am I gonna do ?"
Before Sid could say anything not that he was going to,they had already entered the house and Sid was pulled into a hug by some girl.And she was throwing envious looks to Riddhima.Riddhima couldn't bear getting these looks when she wasn't his girlfriend."Sid.Why don't you introduce me to her?" she asked with a extra sugary tone."Erm Yeah..Riddhima this is Nisha.Nisha this is Riddhima" before Sid could say anything more Riddhima interuppted "His FRIEND.Nothing more.Nothing less.So if you stop giving me those looks woman!"
She walked off the place not caring she didn't know a soul here all she knew she was pissed off at Sid then this Nisha chick.Damn she was pissed at her life.Last to last new years she was crying her eyes out.Last New Years she was a depressed soul and now today when she wanted to get out of this life and enjoy she didn't know any one..What was it with her and her life.She was trotting away when she bumped into some one.
"I'm Sorr..." she couldn't complete her apology when she saw the person standing in front of her.This has to be a joke.This is was so not possible.She had to be dreaming or hallucinating.He couldn't be here.No..Please just make him vanish.
With that hope she closed her eyes.Opening one eye she saw he was still there.Looking as shocked as she was.."Riddhima!" she heard him speak.She wanted to say when she heard Sid coming and hugging him "Yo!Armaan Bro!See I'm here..I promised you and I'm here.I do not break my promises.So you better not say that next time"
"Yeah!I gotcha.Sorry for calling you a promise breaker.That was the only way I could bring you here!" Armaan said composing himself.Sid agreed with Armaan and asked Riddhima to stay with him till he met a few people.
After he left there was this infamous awkward silence.She didn't know what to say.Nor did he but they had to so taking a teeny weeny step to break the silence he mumbled a "Hey!".Riddhima looked at him and returned his 'hey' and looked down at polished floor which was so not interesting but she had to look at it.
"So..how are you ?" "Good.." she replied with out looking at him."That's great.I am good too.I mean.." "Stop it Armaan.I don't want to know how good you are.Look please I beg of you don't talk please.For the love of god don't.."
He decided to stay quiet when her neck piece caught his attention..She was wearing what he gifted her!Did that mean she hadn't moved on ? Before he could say anything.Sid came back and said "Should I introduce you two or did you already did that"
Riddhima held Sid's hand tightly which shocked the hell out of Sid "No Sid baby.Batao na kaun hai ye ?" Sid with a uneasy tone said "Uh Uh Riddhima ye Armaan hai.Mera cousin aur ye iski party hai and Bro this is Riddhima my.." "HIS GIRLFRIEND" Riddhima completed for him.Sid looked at Riddhima shocked while Riddhima glared at him not so say anything and just continue.
"Oh!You're his girlfriend.By the way Riddhima you're necklace is pretty tumne diya usse Sid?" Armaan asked "Oh no no no!It was by my.. actually don't know if I should him my boy friend or not but he gave to me on V-Day so I guess I'll just call him my ex - boy friend.I liked the necklace so I kept it.Why throw such a beautiful and costly necklace away ? Right Sid ?" "Of course baby..You're always right.." Riddhima gave him a side hug and said "Awww Sid.You're a perfect boy friend."
"Yeah!Bro vo aunty hai kya ? I wanted to talk to her.So ?" " Yeah she's in her room actually.She's getting dressed.As even she is going out so just knock before you go.I'll see you later.Yo Sameer dude..." with that he went off
"RIDDHIMA!Ye kya tha ? Sid babyyy..you're a perfect boy friend"..to which Riddhima proudly retorted.Of course she had thought what she would say "SID!You brought me here to an unknown place with unknown people.So this is your punishment.SO BEAR IT.And now get me some thing to drink WARNA!" she said glaring at him.
Sid who thought could die if he stayed one more minute under Riddhima's gaze "Yeah Yeah.I'll some soft drink for you.Just give me a minute okay" He rushed for his life and Riddhima hid her face in her palm."WHY!WHY!WHY!Was God on a 'dont-make-Riddhima-happy-' mission ? When she tried to get back to where she was he was brought right infront of her..Wh..One minute it's just party that's it.Then you don't have to see him.Great!Thank God!Yeaaahh!!!"
"Riddhima.Pepsi.You like it na ? Take." he said.Riddhima who was so happy hugged Sid and said happily said a "Thank You!".. Sid was pure confused one minute she was angry next minute she was happy.What was up with her ? "Sid..You had to meet your aunt right.Chalo.." She told him
"Yeah.Let's go" They went to Armaan's mum room where they entered after knocking.."Sid beta!It's so nice to see you here.Aya karo yaha pe..Accha lagta hai.." Sid went forward and said "Vo aunty bus life mai thoda busy tha bus."
She laughed and asked " Ye kaun hai ? "..Sid looked at Riddhima he didn't know what to say Friend or Girlfriend ? Sensing his confusion she said "Aunty mai Sid ki dost hu ?" She smirked and said "Dost yani girlfriend right ?" Riddhima laughed and said "Nahi Nahi Aunty.Just dost plain friendship.."
"Oh!That's great.Accha hai tu bhi Armaan ki rah par nikal pada hai.." She said sadly.."Aunty ap kya bol rahe ho ?" Sid asked.
"2 saal pehle ki baat hai.We found Armaan on some chatting on some site.To be specific dating.We were shocked.When we confronted him Armaan kaafi dara hua lag raha hai.We just asked him to get off the site forever.Armaan tried to refuse this but me and Akash wouldn't budge.Humne humare saare computers se vo site ko block kar diya.Armaan 2 saal pehle ke New Years mai apne friend ke ghar gaya tha tab usne us ladki ko likh diya ki wouldn't come any more.Tabse leke aj tak Armaan kabhi kisi ladki ko romantically nahi dekhta hai.Ab lagta hai humne galti kardi,Hume ehsaaas hua ki Armaan sach mai us ladki se bahut pyaar karta tha.Usne sirf usse phone pe baat ki hai aur uski tasveer dekhi hai.Vo usse mila nahi lekin uski ankho mai uske liye pyaar dikhta hai."
Riddhima rushed out of the room.Armaan loved her.That's all she could think.He didn't ditch her.He didn't betray her.He loved her as much as she loved him.Her eyes were finding him but he couldn't be found she went to every place she could but he had vanished.Why did he have to vanish now!No why did have to vanish..She went outside.May be he was out but she didn't see him there too.She sat on the near by bench holding her head in her hands.
She heard a few sobs.She touched her cheek.No.She wasn't crying.Then who was.She followed the voice and saw a way.It was dark in the entrance that's why she didn't see it.As she walked she saw a figure holding his head and crying.When she came closer she was the person was Armaan.
She smiled.As hard as she could.She went near him.Turned him so that he was facing her."Riddhima?" he mumbled..And this was greeted with a few punches on his chest
"YOU IDIOT!MORON!KAMEENE!HOW DID YOU DO THIS TO ME? HUH!" Riddhima asked grabbing him by his collar."Riddhima.What did I do ? I don't like you any more I was just being frank.."
"Oh really ? Then why are you crying ?" she asked.."Vo..Vo..mai pichle saal ko miss karunga isiliye.." he made up some shit.He knew it was dumb but he did say some thing..
"Armaan!I know it okay.Don't lie to me.Please." Armaan looked at her with his mouth wide open."You...know ??" Riddhima put her hand around his neck and said "Yeah I do.." Armaan stood there for a seconds but then he took her hands of him.Turning around he said "Tum Sid ki Girlfriend ho.."
She turned him so he was facing her."Nai hoon.I lied.I didn't want to show you that I haven't moved on.." Armaan's face brighten up."Nai ho?" She shook her head.She took her in a rib crashing and said "I'm so sorry Riddhima.I know I deserve all that you've said.But mai kya karta.Mom dad ko pata hai toh votumhare mom dad ko inform then it would have been a mess and I didn't want this mess.So I just left this."
Riddhima broke the hug."Ek baat bol diya hota.We would have thought of some thing.Kuch na kuch toh kar hi leti.2 years Armaan.You don't know how much I missed you.After we met each other I found every thing I wanted.You gave me everything.Support , Friendship , Humour , Anger and Love"
Armaan stared at her in shock."You love me ? Like vo serious wala love ?" he asked..Riddhima nodded and said "Pakka serious wala.I can't live without you Armaan.Life sucks with out you."
Armaan embraced her once again "I love you..love you so much.I've never got this feeling Riddhima.I feel at ease when I am with you.I am just myself." "I love you too"
He brought his face closer to hers.He was crying.She sucked his tears.With their foreheads touching each others.They smiled cause they knew life wasn't easy and all they needed was each other and they were undoubtedly there for each other
Seeing the sky blasting with fireworks Armaan spoke "Happy New Year Cutiepie" ..Riddhima kept her head on his chest and said, "Same to you Gamerboy."
By: Trisha
By: Maitree
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Internet Love
She sat there with her back resting against the soft pillow with her laptop on her thighs.Her hands typing the name of the site as fast as she could.Luck wasn't on her side..Her net connection was super slow or that's what what she thought.She typed her user name which was 'cutiepie' following her password.
As the page was loading.She laughed at herself yet again.Cutiepie ? Who keeps that as a username.She could have gone with her real name but no she just had to make herself look dumb.As she was thinking she didn't realize when the page loaded.
She looked at her page.It was full of pink and her display picture of Shah Rukh Khan.She went to the messages section.Clicking on the last page her heart started thumping.She clicked on the last page which had the very 1st message she received by 'gamerboy'.She couldn't get her eyes of the message which read
Hey Cutiepie
I'm Gamerboy.Wanna be friends ?
P.S My real name is Armaan 😉
She quickly went on the last message she had received from him.Her eyes went to the date 31st December 2009.It was supposed to be a new year for her she had been so excited.She had so many plans for them but they all came crushing down with his last message ..
Hey Riddhima
First of all wishing you a happy new year.Hope the new year goes great for you.I don't really know how to say this but I don't think we can go ahead like this.I mean 4 years back it all looked nice and cool but right now I don't really think so.Any way I don't think I like you any more..Don't get me wrong I did like you.Believe me I did but now it's all so different.My actual friends are so much fun that I just can't get time to come here.I'm really sorry but I'm logging off from this site COMPLETELY.It was nice talking you.Bye...Have a good life
P.S You have amazing eyes.I've told you that before thought of saying for the last time 😊
That's it.Enough was enough.How long could she just keep going on the site and read messages which came 2 years ago.She checked her outbox only to find herself filled disappointment.None of her messages were read by him after this last message.What was up with her.She had a boy friend for good sake!A real one who she was right in front of her.Not some one over the internet.
But she knew the relationship she shared with Siddhant was short lived and may be today was the end of it.She had been sensing that Sid wanted to break up with her.He tried giving her hints but she played the dumb fool but today she would just set him free.
The sound of her phone buzzing got her out of her trance.It was a message by Siddhant.He asked her to come at his place at 7 for the party of New Years Party..but wait he messaged the address too and it was different than his house address.Shutting the LT she picked her phone up to call him..
"Hey Sid.Wassup with the different address ?? " she asked "Ohh yeah it's my cousin's place.We're going there..Uhm Riddhima should I come to pick you up ? " he asked her.She so wanted to refuse but she had decided she would break up with him before they left for the party so she just mumbled a yes..In return Sid told her to be ready by 6:45.
She kept her phone aside and went for a hot shower.That's the only thing which relaxed her.She remembered how much she had cried under this very shower two years ago.She recollected how she hugged herself.Trying to calm herself down and trying to accept it was all over between her and Armaan.
When she thought about it today she still felt like crying.It wouldn't be wrong if she said that she had lost her heart to Armaan.He was her 1st ever boyfriend and her 1st love.She remembered how many times she tried to call on the number he had given her to contact him but after that message it would come unavailable and a few days later not found.
Drying herself she picked her dress for the party.Choosing what to wear as a neck piece her eyes went to a heart shaped locket.She picked it up and caressed it.It was a gift by Armaan on Valentine's day in 2009.
She laughed at the memory of her waiting for the parcel to come.And when it came she rushed and signed the post and walked away.She decided to wear it today.It matched wit her dress any way.Putting her earings and bracelet she walked up to the living room which was empty.
Her parents had left for a party and as it was a New Years Eve party she knew they wouldn't be back by tomorrow.She switched on the TV..The re-telecast of F.R.I.E.N.D.S was coming on.She sighed.
"Why does every thing remind me of him!I've just seen his freakking photo and talked to him over the phone.That's it.We didn't meet.Then why does he mean so much to me now ? He said it's over long time back.Then why I am I hoping so much.Why do I go on the site hoping he has messaged me or check the outbox when I already know he hasn't read any message..or he won't message me now.Heck I don't know if still remembers me..He had got a good set of friends hadn't he ? So why will he remember a random chick he met over the net.Bas Riddhima enough.Kuch hi ghanto mai naya saal hai you're gonna forget that guy named Armaan existed in your life..It's a new start.."
She heard the bell ring.She rushed and opened to see Sid standing.He worn a casual T-Shirt."Erm Sid.We're going for a party so aren't you like under dressed ?" Riddhima asked."Who cares ? Let's go..Bro's pretty pumped up for this party."
"Uhh!Sid wait..Actually I want to say something" Sid turned around and gestured Riddhima to continue "Ehh see I know what you've been trying to tell me.I mean I do understand it was just that I wasn't just showing it to you but I thought as the New Year is coming.We'll just call it off.I mean why go around when we both know we're not into it right ?"
Sid just stood there..Trying to grasp that Riddhima actually said that.He'd been trying to say that for so long but he couldn't.."Ahh that's great.." He saw Riddhima's shocked face to the reply he just gave and said "I mean.I agree with you.It's just stupid to go around when we aren't into it."
Riddhima shook her head.There was awkward silence between them.To lighten it up she spoke "Break up ho gaya toh party mai nahi le ja rahe ho ?" Sid laughed and said "Arey no no..Of course I'm taking you.After all we're friends right ?"
The last bit was more of a question he was asking her.Smiling she replied "Come on Sid.We're friends..Of course we are.." Sid smiled and mumbled a 'great!'.
With that they reached the venue which was Sid's cousin's house.A whole lot of cars were parked.She realized this was party was a grand affair.It wasn't one of those small parties.
As she was walking to the entrance she thought about the people she might know.She realized.She knew no one except Sid.What the heck was she going to do.Wasn't New Years all about being with your close ones.She didn't even know the people forget being close.
Just to try her luck she asked.."Errmm Sid.Do I know any one here?" After a moment or two.Sid replied with "No."..Her expression was priceless!"SID!What the heck am I gonna do here ? I mean I am not even dating you so why would I meet your cousins ? They'll think it's all getting serious between us when we already broke it off.Oh My God!This might be so embarrassing.Now speak you idiot!What am I gonna do ?"
Before Sid could say anything not that he was going to,they had already entered the house and Sid was pulled into a hug by some girl.And she was throwing envious looks to Riddhima.Riddhima couldn't bear getting these looks when she wasn't his girlfriend."Sid.Why don't you introduce me to her?" she asked with a extra sugary tone."Erm Yeah..Riddhima this is Nisha.Nisha this is Riddhima" before Sid could say anything more Riddhima interuppted "His FRIEND.Nothing more.Nothing less.So if you stop giving me those looks woman!"
She walked off the place not caring she didn't know a soul here all she knew she was pissed off at Sid then this Nisha chick.Damn she was pissed at her life.Last to last new years she was crying her eyes out.Last New Years she was a depressed soul and now today when she wanted to get out of this life and enjoy she didn't know any one..What was it with her and her life.She was trotting away when she bumped into some one.
"I'm Sorr..." she couldn't complete her apology when she saw the person standing in front of her.This has to be a joke.This is was so not possible.She had to be dreaming or hallucinating.He couldn't be here.No..Please just make him vanish.
With that hope she closed her eyes.Opening one eye she saw he was still there.Looking as shocked as she was.."Riddhima!" she heard him speak.She wanted to say when she heard Sid coming and hugging him "Yo!Armaan Bro!See I'm here..I promised you and I'm here.I do not break my promises.So you better not say that next time"
"Yeah!I gotcha.Sorry for calling you a promise breaker.That was the only way I could bring you here!" Armaan said composing himself.Sid agreed with Armaan and asked Riddhima to stay with him till he met a few people.
After he left there was this infamous awkward silence.She didn't know what to say.Nor did he but they had to so taking a teeny weeny step to break the silence he mumbled a "Hey!".Riddhima looked at him and returned his 'hey' and looked down at polished floor which was so not interesting but she had to look at it.
"So..how are you ?" "Good.." she replied with out looking at him."That's great.I am good too.I mean.." "Stop it Armaan.I don't want to know how good you are.Look please I beg of you don't talk please.For the love of god don't.."
He decided to stay quiet when her neck piece caught his attention..She was wearing what he gifted her!Did that mean she hadn't moved on ? Before he could say anything.Sid came back and said "Should I introduce you two or did you already did that"
Riddhima held Sid's hand tightly which shocked the hell out of Sid "No Sid baby.Batao na kaun hai ye ?" Sid with a uneasy tone said "Uh Uh Riddhima ye Armaan hai.Mera cousin aur ye iski party hai and Bro this is Riddhima my.." "HIS GIRLFRIEND" Riddhima completed for him.Sid looked at Riddhima shocked while Riddhima glared at him not so say anything and just continue.
"Oh!You're his girlfriend.By the way Riddhima you're necklace is pretty tumne diya usse Sid?" Armaan asked "Oh no no no!It was by my.. actually don't know if I should him my boy friend or not but he gave to me on V-Day so I guess I'll just call him my ex - boy friend.I liked the necklace so I kept it.Why throw such a beautiful and costly necklace away ? Right Sid ?" "Of course baby..You're always right.." Riddhima gave him a side hug and said "Awww Sid.You're a perfect boy friend."
"Yeah!Bro vo aunty hai kya ? I wanted to talk to her.So ?" " Yeah she's in her room actually.She's getting dressed.As even she is going out so just knock before you go.I'll see you later.Yo Sameer dude..." with that he went off
"RIDDHIMA!Ye kya tha ? Sid babyyy..you're a perfect boy friend"..to which Riddhima proudly retorted.Of course she had thought what she would say "SID!You brought me here to an unknown place with unknown people.So this is your punishment.SO BEAR IT.And now get me some thing to drink WARNA!" she said glaring at him.
Sid who thought could die if he stayed one more minute under Riddhima's gaze "Yeah Yeah.I'll some soft drink for you.Just give me a minute okay" He rushed for his life and Riddhima hid her face in her palm."WHY!WHY!WHY!Was God on a 'dont-make-Riddhima-happy-' mission ? When she tried to get back to where she was he was brought right infront of her..Wh..One minute it's just party that's it.Then you don't have to see him.Great!Thank God!Yeaaahh!!!"
"Riddhima.Pepsi.You like it na ? Take." he said.Riddhima who was so happy hugged Sid and said happily said a "Thank You!".. Sid was pure confused one minute she was angry next minute she was happy.What was up with her ? "Sid..You had to meet your aunt right.Chalo.." She told him
"Yeah.Let's go" They went to Armaan's mum room where they entered after knocking.."Sid beta!It's so nice to see you here.Aya karo yaha pe..Accha lagta hai.." Sid went forward and said "Vo aunty bus life mai thoda busy tha bus."
She laughed and asked " Ye kaun hai ? "..Sid looked at Riddhima he didn't know what to say Friend or Girlfriend ? Sensing his confusion she said "Aunty mai Sid ki dost hu ?" She smirked and said "Dost yani girlfriend right ?" Riddhima laughed and said "Nahi Nahi Aunty.Just dost plain friendship.."
"Oh!That's great.Accha hai tu bhi Armaan ki rah par nikal pada hai.." She said sadly.."Aunty ap kya bol rahe ho ?" Sid asked.
"2 saal pehle ki baat hai.We found Armaan on some chatting on some site.To be specific dating.We were shocked.When we confronted him Armaan kaafi dara hua lag raha hai.We just asked him to get off the site forever.Armaan tried to refuse this but me and Akash wouldn't budge.Humne humare saare computers se vo site ko block kar diya.Armaan 2 saal pehle ke New Years mai apne friend ke ghar gaya tha tab usne us ladki ko likh diya ki wouldn't come any more.Tabse leke aj tak Armaan kabhi kisi ladki ko romantically nahi dekhta hai.Ab lagta hai humne galti kardi,Hume ehsaaas hua ki Armaan sach mai us ladki se bahut pyaar karta tha.Usne sirf usse phone pe baat ki hai aur uski tasveer dekhi hai.Vo usse mila nahi lekin uski ankho mai uske liye pyaar dikhta hai."
Riddhima rushed out of the room.Armaan loved her.That's all she could think.He didn't ditch her.He didn't betray her.He loved her as much as she loved him.Her eyes were finding him but he couldn't be found she went to every place she could but he had vanished.Why did he have to vanish now!No why did have to vanish..She went outside.May be he was out but she didn't see him there too.She sat on the near by bench holding her head in her hands.
She heard a few sobs.She touched her cheek.No.She wasn't crying.Then who was.She followed the voice and saw a way.It was dark in the entrance that's why she didn't see it.As she walked she saw a figure holding his head and crying.When she came closer she was the person was Armaan.
She smiled.As hard as she could.She went near him.Turned him so that he was facing her."Riddhima?" he mumbled..And this was greeted with a few punches on his chest
"YOU IDIOT!MORON!KAMEENE!HOW DID YOU DO THIS TO ME? HUH!" Riddhima asked grabbing him by his collar."Riddhima.What did I do ? I don't like you any more I was just being frank.."
"Oh really ? Then why are you crying ?" she asked.."Vo..Vo..mai pichle saal ko miss karunga isiliye.." he made up some shit.He knew it was dumb but he did say some thing..
"Armaan!I know it okay.Don't lie to me.Please." Armaan looked at her with his mouth wide open."You...know ??" Riddhima put her hand around his neck and said "Yeah I do.." Armaan stood there for a seconds but then he took her hands of him.Turning around he said "Tum Sid ki Girlfriend ho.."
She turned him so he was facing her."Nai hoon.I lied.I didn't want to show you that I haven't moved on.." Armaan's face brighten up."Nai ho?" She shook her head.She took her in a rib crashing and said "I'm so sorry Riddhima.I know I deserve all that you've said.But mai kya karta.Mom dad ko pata hai toh votumhare mom dad ko inform then it would have been a mess and I didn't want this mess.So I just left this."
Riddhima broke the hug."Ek baat bol diya hota.We would have thought of some thing.Kuch na kuch toh kar hi leti.2 years Armaan.You don't know how much I missed you.After we met each other I found every thing I wanted.You gave me everything.Support , Friendship , Humour , Anger and Love"
Armaan stared at her in shock."You love me ? Like vo serious wala love ?" he asked..Riddhima nodded and said "Pakka serious wala.I can't live without you Armaan.Life sucks with out you."
Armaan embraced her once again "I love you..love you so much.I've never got this feeling Riddhima.I feel at ease when I am with you.I am just myself." "I love you too"
He brought his face closer to hers.He was crying.She sucked his tears.With their foreheads touching each others.They smiled cause they knew life wasn't easy and all they needed was each other and they were undoubtedly there for each other
Seeing the sky blasting with fireworks Armaan spoke "Happy New Year Cutiepie" ..Riddhima kept her head on his chest and said, "Same to you Gamerboy."
By: Trisha
Channel V Dil Dosti Dance
