As the Sun rays peeped in throught the windows, she stiffed a yawn rising herself up to rest against headboard on bed. Her eyes opened only to be greeted by most beautiful site. The two most precious person of her life, slept with peaceful smile on their faces. She couldn't help but laugh at the sleeping style of two. Their legs cocooned and hands around each other's back. The blanket had slipped on a side and morning chill had brought them more closer to each other in need of some warth. Shaking her head amused, she picked up the half hanging blanket and covered them with it. They were in quick need and she could see them getting more comfortable in their peaceful slumber. Like father, like daughter...she smiled and then looked fondly at them as she rested herself on her elbow. Her free hand travelled to Ruhi's forehead as she kept stroking it lovingly. She knelt in closer as it reached her husband's face now. She cupped it and kept staring at him for long.
Happy Anniversary Raman..she whispered..careful not to disturb them in sleep. A smile crept up on her face as she remembered the hustle and bustle of last night. Raman had decided to make it a special night for both of them. As the clock stuck 12, they wished each other Happy Anniversary and were just about to hug when the ever famous toli of haddis - whole Bhalla and Iyer clan barged into their room to wish them with an anniversary cake. She laughed as she remembered the look on Raman's face and his extended hands in hair. As they had moved out to living area, all they could do was follow.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY ISHRA
The cake read. That feel of their names joined together brought tear in her eyes. He gave her a side hug wrapping his arm around her shoulder. They cut the cake and fed each other followed by all family members. The next hours passed with the longing looks in their eyes as everyone had fun on their expense. Raman tried to get up excusing office work and he had to get up early but no one paid heed to his words. All he got in return was knowing looks and more teasing. By the end of in-house party at 3 AM, Ruhi was too excited to sleep with her parents on their special day. All they did was wish each other good night.
Hey Murugan...how long will it take...everyday something or other problem. Cant we two be one? She said annoyed looking upward and later cursed herself for being so loud as there was a cheeky grin on the face of man beside her...his words reaching her ears. Dont expect from Murugan...Now I only will have to think of something. And...what will you do? She asked at once in excitement. He looked at her wide eyed and then chukled Despo Madraasan. If you want...I dont mind now only. He raised up to rest his back against headboard. She registered her words and a blush crept up on her face. No..I was just... her words trailed off. You were just? He raised his eyebrows. Their eyes locked for a moment.
Nothing..she broke the trance and looked other side. Good Morning..she said as she tried to get up from her side but he was quick to grab her by her wrist. Is this how you wish your hubby Good Morning? That too on Wedding anniversary? He made a face. She sat back.
If not this way...then how? She counter questioned. Like this. He brought his cheeks closer to hers and pointed to it asking for a kiss. She smiled and tried to hide her blush. Raman...Ruhi is sleeping. Did I ever tell you Ishita when you call me Ramannn...with a mixture of love and shyness..in your voice, I find my name all the more wonderful. He said hoarsely as his eyes gazed hers. They kept staring at each other till he spoke. But right now..I need something else. And Ruhi is still sleep. There is no public so you cant backout. He said in a bit strict tone indicating he wont let her go today.
-You know Raman...I cant.
-Am your legal hubby Ishita.-But...okk close your eyes.
-This time I wont take same risk again.
-Raman plss
He left her wrist and crossed his arms against his chest. Fine go. He said irritated.
Raman...stop being a nautanki.
Arre yrr...Ruhi is better than you.
What? How Ruhi came in between?
Cos she always gives kiss when I ask for. You are silly.
Ishita sighed. She knew there was no way backing out. He had been asking her for it everyday now. Raman..wats that? When did you bring it? She asked pointing to a random paper in front of tv. What? He looked in that direction. She was quick to use the situation. In a jiffy, she gave a quick peck on his cheek and sprang out of bed before he could register or stop her. Listen..he extended his arm but she was gone by then...not before giving a wink as she closed the door behind her. He smiled sheepishly as he placed his hand on his cheek where her lips had touched. Madraasan..he said lovingly and stood up shaking his head. Jitna sharmana hai sharmalo...aaj ki anniversary to me waste nhi jaane dungaa. He smirked checking himself in mirror.
********************
Papa...its Sunday today. Can we go for movie, shopping and dinner today. Said Adi as everyone sat in living area teasing Raman and Ishita. The smiling faces turned serious as he smiled while Shagun smirked. Raman raised his brows at him. Papa...it will be fun. You, me, Ruhi and mama...its been long since we went somewhere. Raman became silent. Par Ishima...Ruhi tried to speak but Ishita cut her short. Haan Adi..if you want your papa and sister will go with you. She smiled as all others looked at her worried. Adi smiled. So..i'll change and come then we leave. Ishita nodded smiling. Shagun gave a victory smirk to Ishita and followed him to room.
One minute Adi..Raman called him. We are not going anywhere. Mother son duo turned back shocked as it was never expected from Raman to say no. But papa?
Papa has to go for bussiness party and dinner with clients. He told in a firm tone. So we can go there. Chirped Adi. No beta..Raman retorted. Its not meant for children. Spouse and parteners are allowed. Am going with Ishita. Others heaved a sense of relief. Ruhi gave a grin to Shagun while she stood shocked after her lose. She kept her hand on Adi's shoulder to instigate him. Okk papa...you can go with mom too. Why Ishita aunty? He spoke only for others to look on. Adi...Raman tried to speak. No papa...earlier also you used to go parties together naa. Then why not now? I want my parents to go together. Please please..he tried to put Shagun's hand in Raman's. Ishita looked at the scene unfolding in front of her eyes and tears welled up in them. Adi..Raman jerked his hand away only for him to shiver. Papa...Bss Adi..Raman shouted.
Adi..Shagun is your mother. But not my wife. Raman...Ishita tried to stop him but he gestured her with his hand to stay away from all this. Mind it Adi...my wife is Ishita. You cant consider her your mother its your wish but that doesnt mean I will consider your mother as my wife. Shagun stood rooted at the spot shocked. We used to do things together but not anymore. Raman..wat are you saying? He is a kid...Toshiji tried to speak but Raman cut her midway. He is not a kid maa. He has to realize and accept this fact that his parents are divorced. His mamma and papa may love him but they dont hold any importance in each other life. Everyone got silent as they realized seriousness in Raman's voice. Adi held back his tears and ran to his room. Mrs. Bhalla and Ishita called him but raman stopped them. Let him cry maa. He needs to ponder over this thought.
How dare you? Shagun shouted. Look Raman. If you cant keep my son happy..I will leave with him. She tried to keep an upperhand on his weakness. You are living on my money Shagun. And without my wish even Mihir will not allow you both in his house. Shagun stomped her foot and left the hall. Raman...she tried to call him but he left the home angrily.
**********************
Ishita was kneading dough in kitchen...her thoughts travelling to Raman and Adi's words...Where are you Raman. Its special day for us and you are not even here. She sighed sadly wondering what life has more in store for her. This Shagun crap in her life..when and how will it end? She thought to herself. Her mother in law's voice brought her out of her thoughts. Ishita...where are you lost? Door bell is ringing. Huh...she stammered. I'll check mammiji. She turned the knob of gas and rushed towards door.
Parcel? She looked confused. Ishita Raman Kumar Bhalla...it read. Who can send it? Wondering she tried to open it. Madraasan...there are unwanted guests in house. Open this in privacy of your room. I dont want anyone's eyes on it. Her face glowed up realising it was from her ravan kumar. Something personal. Before Toshiji could ask her wat it was, she was off to her room in a second and stopped only after bolting the room behind her. She picked up her phone to call him and he was quick to answer as if waiting for her phone only.
-Hello
-Where are you?
-In office. Why?
-Wats dis Raman?
-Wat??
-You know wat am talking about.
-I hav meeting Yrrr...thats why late.
-am not asking why you are there?
-Then??
-wats in parcel?
-Check yourself.
She smiled and unwrapped her treasure gently. He smiled imagining her expressions at the gift. Dress?? She exclaimed seeing the box. He chukled. She opened it quickly to check and her eyes widened in horror seeing the cloth piece in front of her. Seeing her go all silent on phone, he chukled. What happened madraasan? Hawa nikal gyi. She didnt reply. She didnt know wat to speak. It was a bikni - a set of lingeries for her. Red lacy netted braisers and innerwear. She sat shocked. Oh Madrassan...jinda ho ya margayi?(Are u alive or dead) He called again. Madraasan...he almost screamed to get her out of shock. Huh..haan...yehh...Raman...she fumbled...not knowimg wat to say. He smirked. Ishita..will you wear it for me? He spoke suppressing his laughter. Huh..no...NO?? Ishita...you are my wife. Its our anniversary. Cant you do this much for me? He sounded innocent. She didnt know what to do with her weak heart. But what to say? She thought. Madrasan? Are you wearing? He asked. Huh..no..i mean yess...no. she snapped. He laughed out loudly this time. Raman...she pouted. Okk...now open the next box. Next?? She unfolded it to find one more box beneath it. One more? Why hav u sent all this? She fumed. I am not opening. Arre...just check it once. No..Ishita??? Ok fyn...with halfheart she opened it only to find a beautiful suit in it. Her eyes shone with excitement.
It was a beautiful embroidered red kurti with a contrasting blue patiala salwar with a heavy duppatta. Its beautiful...the words escaped from her mouth at once and he smiled. You liked it? He asked. A lott...she replied back hugging the piece of cloth to herself. But suit? She asked confused. I want to see my wife in punjaban look today on our anniversarry. She smiled at it. But I was planning to wear kanjivaram today. She teased him. Not today...he snapped back. Achaa listen...get ready soon. I'll call you and you'll come outside. We hav to go. He told her. But where? She asked. Now...thats a surprise Madrasan. Surprise Date. But..she tried to speak. Okk listen..do bring that lingeries box along...He winked and cut the phone before she could ask more. She wondered what were the plans for the date.
****************************
Raman pressed the horn loudly for nth time showing his restlessness. Okk Ruhi..am leaving. Take care bacha. She said hurriedly and ran towards the door. She surely didnt want to see Ravan kumar side of this man but... Sending a silent prayer to her Murugan to keep him calm, she opened the door and sat on the passenger seat. Sorry sorry...she spoke. Have you seen the time? I had asked you to be there by 1:00 pm and you are coming at...he stopped in his words as he glanced a look at her.
She had wrapped herself in his gifted suit. And to say that she was looking more beautiful then he had imagined would be an understatement. Her braided hair, minimal make up and Elegant accessories added to her beauty. He kept gazing at her for long while she blushed under his stare. A flick of her hair tried to obstruct his view and he was quick to tuck it behind her earlobe. Lets leave...she said shyly. He returned to his senses and started driving the car. By the way...where are we going? She asked again. Its just afternoon. What are your plans? She was confused. Stop using your brain madraasan wen u dont hav one. She gave him a glare at that. By the way...where were you since morning? She asked after some time. I didnt want to spoil my mood again by seeing Shagun or Adi's face. He said as he turned the steering.
He is your son Raman.
I know Ishita. But today is our day.
But...the way you spoke in morning. He needs you.
I know he does Ishita. And I am there for him always but I wanted this day to be your day...our day. I dont want anyone else.
She knew there was no poing arguing further so chose to divert topic of discussion.
Airport? Raman? Wat?? She asked impatiently. Hold on hold on...am not taking you out of country. He assured her. But wherever we are going..wen will we return? Home? Ruhi? Adi? No one knows. You should have talked first. This is not done. She kept speaking. He held her by shoulders to stop her. Oh shatabdi Express...come to a halt please. She became silent. We are just going to Shimla. One hour distance from here. I didnt tell anyone because of the two already failed attempts of Dubai and Europe. I cant wait anymore. He said in a firm tone. She stood silently listening to him. I know its not possible to go far away leaving behind everything for long. But atleast we can take out a day for ourselves out of our lives. We will return by tomorrow. He assured her and she nodded. I didnt tell anyone as Shagun could have planned anything. Thats why only I never returned home.
***************************
But Raman...I didnt pack my clothes. I thought we were going for movie or lunch or mall. She said as they sat in a taxi to head towards their cottage. No need to worry mam. I hav packed enough clothes for both of us. By the way I dont think we will need clothes there. He winked at her and she felt blood rushing to her cheeks. You have a cottage here? She asked as the taxi driver dropped them in front of one. Yess...I purchased it three years back when I was here for conference. He took out a key to open it. Its closed since then, there would be lots of dust Raman. She made a face. Oh Hello...Raman Bhalla's work is always perfect. Everything was planned well in advance. He smirked while she looked amused. I am impressed. Surprises since morning? Dress, Date, Shimla, Cotttage...kya baat hai. Arre...Its nothing. He grabbed her waist at once bringing her closer as they entered the place. Raman?? He kept his hands on her either side. You dont even know what all plans I have for this evening and night. He said making her blush. Specially the way you are looking right now. He said huskily. In this suit ...My pure punjaban. He said mersimized by her beauty. All I want to do right now is make you mine forever and never let you go.
I am all yours Raman. You can make me yours in every way you want. She encircled his arms around his back. Their eyes met for a long time. Okk fyn...he broke the moment. Should we go inside now or you plan to stand here only. She nodded and they entered inside.
*************************
Ishita...be quick yrrr. There is not this much time. Raman banged the washroom door again. Coming Raman. Just two minutes. She replied. 2-2minute karke sara time nikal degi. Shaam ho gyi hai. He banged the table. He was strolling in the room impatiently when she entered and all he could do was gaze open mouthed at the woman who stood in front of him. Am I looking alright? She asked nervously as she fidgeted with the pallu of his gifted saree. Divine..was the word which escaped his lips. He had gifted her a pink low waist saree with an off shoulder blouse. She smiled at his complement and moved towards the mirror. Just 5 minutes more Raman. The next moment Raman hated himself for choosing this saree for her. The blouse being backless, he got a full view of her milky back and waist. All he wanted at that moment was to pin her beneath him then and there. He found blood rushing downwards in his body. But he knew he had to take slow steps. He had planned a lot for them. And he didnt want her to get shock instead of surprise. He wanted her to feel special and desired. Am waiting outside. You come soon. He said and left the room before his urges could take over him.
***************************
They roamed around the city. Went to mall road. And then visited the ever famous Church and Gurdwara Sahib of Shimla hand in hand...praying for their future and thanking the life for a wonderful partener in it.
Raman had booked a whole restaurant for her for dinner. The soft music and candle light dinner, it was a dream come true moment for her. You know what I always used to read in books. Prince Charming taking you to a beautiful journey of love. Shopping, Walking, Candle light Dinner, soft music and all...I always used to think these are dreams only. Your dreams are now reality Ishita. He said as he forwarded his hand for a dance. She was quick to accept the offer.
He kept one hand on her waist and held her one hand with other one. She kept her free hand on his shoulder as they swayed to music together. Their feet in perfect co ordination and steps matching.
Zehnaseeb Zehnaseeb...Tujhe chahun betahasha...Zehnaseeb.
You know wat Ishita, I wanted to say you something since long. And am thinking to do it today finally. He said huskily into her ears when she rested her back on his chest. Their hands wrapped around her waist n lower belly. She blushed. Say it then. She said inhaling his scent. He twirled her around to face her. Bringing her face closer to his, he kept staring at her. Their lips inches apart. She found her heartbeat increasing multifolds. She wondered if he could hear her. Their heavy breaths mingled into each other. He brought his lips closer to hers. She closed her eyes surrendering herself to him. And in a jiffy he grabbed her finger and started twirling her to the music tone. She looked astonished but he had passion in his eyes. He brought her closer and wrapped his one arm around her waist. Bending her backwards he made her move in a semicircular arc. Her body reacting to every of his move and her eyes fixed on his face. It was then she felt something on her finger. She looked around only to found a beautiful diamond studded ring in it. She was so busy looking infact staring at him that she never realized when he had got the chance to slip it into her ring finger. This man knows how to distract someone. Her expressions told what she was thinking and he grinned. Hows it? He asked. What is this for? She counter questioned. Happy Anniversary Mrs. Bhalla. He said and kissed her forehead. She hugged him. Thanks Raman.
*************************
There is a beautiful garden down the valley. He said as they came out after dinner. Winter night had made the weather chilly. She shivered as the cold wind crossed her. He was quick to offer his coat to her and she was glad to have it. After walking for about a km, they reached his favourite spot in Shimla. She looked around and sat on the grass after some time. Aree.m.there is bench. He pointed but she wanted to enjoy greenery around her. He sat beside as they talked about differrent things. They shared their childhood moments. He was getting uneasy sitting in same position for long time. His erect back wanted some rest. Coming in front of her, he lied down on grass itself resting his head in her lap. She smiled and carressed his face lovingly. He raised his arm upwards and cuaght her by her neck making her bend her face on his. Their faces just millimeter away when he said I LUV U ISHITA. A tear drop escaped her eyes and fell on the corner of his lips. He smiled and relished the salty liquid. And then raised his face to hers to kiss away all the tears off her face. And in the end, kissed her closed eyelids. Stop crying yrr. If you dont love me its ok. He teased her but she kept her hand on his mouth nodding her head in negative. I luv you too Raman. You are my life, you are the reason why I live and you are the reason why I smile. This time he took her in a bone crushing hug in the sitting position itself. She hugged him back with all her might. They stayed in the same position for long. No talks, no words nothing...they found solace in silence. All they did was feel each other. And the let the deep within desires of heart come to surface.
***********************
Its been so late. I think its time we should leave. Said Raman when they were lying on grass facing each other. Their heads resting on their raised forearm. But its so pleasant here. I dont want to leave this place. She said suppressing her laugh. He noticed the naughty glint in her eyes and edged closer to hers. Trust me Mrs. Bhalla...you will find that more pleasant. He winked at her. She found herself blushing hard at his words. Okk..get up. He stood and gave his hand to her to rise. He couldnt wait anymore now. Specially after mouthing those words to her. She held his hand after initial nakhra and was about to stand on her feet when it slipped. Oh shit...she shouted. Now what? He asked irritated. My heels...she picked it up in her hands. The heel had broken and the string of her sandal needed a stich now. Raman...I dont hav any other pair of footwear and car is far away. She said disheartened thinking what to do now.
He clenched his fist in anger. You know what Ishita...you are a big trouble.
Now its my fault. You pulled me with a jerk.
You were not getting up.
Its ok now...we can sit here only.
She looked around to find some place nearby. He grabbed her keeping one hand behind her back and other behind her legs scooping her in his arms. She grabbed his shirt for support. Raman...wat is dis. Chup..ek dum chup. Kuch nhi bologi tum. (You wont say anything) He said furiously while she laughed. Ab itne romantic pose me koi danta hai kya. (Who scolds in such a romantic pose)
When a girl like you is there naa, anyone will scold. He retorted and started moving. Ravan kumar...you dont hav to go at corner of road. Its a long distance. Leave me. She tried to explain but he was admatant. I have very important work to do tonight. Cant leave you midway and staying here...never. Acha? What work? She posed ignorance. What work? Let me tell you. He halted in his steps and brought his lips closer to hers. As their lips touched momentarilly, the sound of car horn made him jump up with Ishita landing on ground in the middle of road and Raman trying to hold her. Are you crazy Raman? What is this? She screamed. He helped her get up and they looked at each other. Next moment they were in fits of laughter. As they got aside to give space for the car to go, they could see furious eyes of the driver on them who found them silly fools busy romancing in the middle of road late night.
Ravan kumar...you cant handle me. She pouted. You distracted me. He complained. Watever..but you cant even carry me to the place let alone do something. She smirked. This was enough for Raman kumar Bhalla to pick her up again and show his man power. This time, he left her only after placing her on his bed which he had decorated in advance for their special night. Now I will show you madraasan...wat this Ravan kumar can do. Saying so he pulled the duvet onto them and snuggled into her to mark her finally his.
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