《The Other Side - A Riveting Tale of Love, Lust and Revenge.》


 Prologue

    "Deceit is the game of petty spirits, and that is by default a woman''s quality."


    - Pierre Corneille.


    <hr>


    The Fortis Hospital, Delhi.


    March 12, 1:15 A.M.


    Darsh Rathore checked his watch again and tallied it against the hospital clock. It matched perfectly. It was five hours since they had taken Vicki to the operation theatre. Five hours, fourteen minutes, and twenty seconds to be precise, since the red light of the OT went on. He rubbed his weary face and prayed for the thousandth time for his brother to be okay, but his hopes sank with each passing minute.


    Eighteen, nineteen, twenty. About turn. His brain counted as he paced the stark white corridor of the A&E department, a tangy smell of disinfectant overwhelming his senses. There were others around him, equally anxious, if not more. Some sat huddled together, whispering among each other. Others stood leaning against the walls, shuffling on their feet as they waited for news.


    Faces rose in hope, then fell in disappointment every time a doctor or nurse scurried by importantly. But no news was good news. Doctors were gods here and nurses were angels but even then, Death lurked in the darkened corners waiting to pounce undetected.


    He exhaled sharply to rid himself of the bleak thought. Gloom and doom did not suit him. He was a man of action.


    He''d come to a halt opposite Vicki''s door when a doctor in green scrubs walked out carrying a paper.


    "How''s he, doctor?" Darsh asked, his anxiety ricocheting the walls. The lady looked unruffled.


    "We are still trying, Mr. Rathore. But I am afraid it may be too late. He''s lost too much blood and the head injury doesn''t look good either."


    He pursed his lips. Yes, they were late. It had taken Ajay nearly six hours to reach Delhi from that dastardly village of Palampur that had a fancy racecourse to boast of but not a decent hospital in the vicinity. The only miserly excuse of a clinic was run by a homeopathic doctor who had flatly refused to treat Vicki.


    For the hundredth time that day, he cursed himself. It was all his mistake. He should have never let Vicki go.


    "Please doctor, you have to save him. Do whatever you want, call the best surgeons in the country, but make sure Vicki gets through," he pleaded, his desperation getting the better of him. The woman gave a sympathetic look.


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    "We''ll try our best, Mr. Rathore. We are going to operate. If successful, he''ll live through this, but failure might cause a coma, or worse. I need your consent." She handed him a form. He felt his brain going numb.


    Coma, or worse?  How had it come to this? Vicki was twenty-one. Twenty-one, for god''s sake! He had so much to see, so much to live for. It was too soon. It was unfair. Whoever had done this was going to pay for this, they had no idea what was coming for them.


    Lips pressed in a thin line, he signed the form as he made a promise to himself. The doctor disappeared behind the OT doors and he turned to resume his pacing only to find Ajay Parmar waiting behind him.


    *****


    "He loved her from the moment he saw her," Ajay pressed a hand to his bandaged forehead as Darsh led him to a nearby bench. Patches of dirt and blood adorned his torn shirt. His other hand was in a plaster cast. "All the time we were there, he was with her. He looked so happy he even wanted to propose. We thought...we thought she loved him, too."


    Darsh listened with a stony expression, his dark eyes giving nothing away. Ajay was Vicki''s best friend since childhood. The duo had planned this excursion together to celebrate their graduation. Palampur, the little countryside town at the peak of its famous racing season, afforded enough of the wild excitement the city boys craved for. But the trip hadn''t ended well. The girl was a vixen. She had played with Vicki and then discarded him when a new, more shiny toy came into sight. What''s more, she''d gone the extra mile and gotten them set upon by goons when Vicki dared to confront her.


    His fingers curled into fists. Aditi Sharma. How he craved to wring her neck! How he would enjoy seeing her vile face strangled to death!


    "There were six of them." Ajay''s eyes were distant. "They chased us in their jeep. We somehow reached our car and escaped, but Vicki lost control in the dark and we crashed into the gorge."


    Darsh ran his fingers through his dark hair. He had listened to this story for the umpteenth time today but still couldn''t believe it.


    Girls. They were never Vicki''s weakness. He was a shy boy, too shy even to talk to girls when he was in school. Even when in college, he''d kept to his studies and his sports. He had a few friends like Ajay, but the young men were mostly well behaved and hardly got into trouble. This was so much in contrast to Darsh''s own past. He had seen and done it all, right from the ripe old age of fifteen.


    He patted Ajay on the shoulder and asked him to rest. All four boys were badly injured, with Vicki being the worst hit. Sam was in the recovery room having just come out after his knee surgery. Paddy was covered in bruises and had been stitched up by the doctors an hour ago.


    Ajay left, walking gingerly on his feet, and Darsh resumed his restless pacing.


    The clock ticked on. It was nearly morning when the red light finally turned off.


    "The operation was successful." The doctor''s expression was relieved yet Darsh noted his wary eyes. "He is alive, but I''m afraid he''s lost the function of his body. The brain injury is too deep, it''ll take time to heal. Meanwhile, we can only wait and hope for the best."


    In other words, Vicki was in a vegetative state. His beloved brother was in a coma, and there was nothing he could do about it.


    Face hardening with insane rage, Darsh whipped out his mobile and speed-dialed a number. He needed information and resources. And more than ever, he needed a plan.


    ***** *****

 1. She Loves to Fly

    Palampur, a few weeks later...


    Misty dawn broke in the sleepy village of Palampur as a young girl climbed up the terrace wall on the top floor of a three-storied villa. Gazing at the east in wonder, she inhaled the hazy mist deeply, then looked down the terrace. It was an impressive height, nearly thirty feet from here to the paved courtyard below. A fall from here would be her death.


    As usual, she considered jumping straight to the bottom. The idea had always filled her with thrill. She had tried it once when she was nine. She had bullied a stable boy to station an old horse under the terrace and jumped on its back straight from the balcony.


    It had caused chaos. The horse had bolted the moment she landed on it, then ran amok through their entire yard in panic before coming to a halt in front of her furious Dadaji.


    What followed was obvious. She was grounded for the next whole week. Well, grounded was a funny word for it considering her room was on the top floor. The poor stable boy was never seen around again.


    Her Ma was apoplectic. She was strictly forbidden to try the stunt again. Her Dad had kept mum, though she knew he was thrilled his daughter shared his passion for horses and stunts.


    Sitting on the wall now, she swung her legs to the other side and grabbed a jasmine vine. It trailed past the corner post right to the ground. This was Ma¡¯s passion, she loved flowers and had planted these creepers when she came to this house as a new bride almost twenty-five years ago. She would not have done so, had she known at the time her daughter would use them as stairs to the ground.


    She started her descent trailing past the scented honeysuckle and half-bloomed jasmines. By the time she touched the ground, she was almost dizzy with the cocktail of heady scents. An impatient nicker fell on her ears and she hurried her steps. Aron was getting restless.


    ¡°Hush...be quiet Aron. You¡¯ll wake the whole house.¡±


    She nuzzled the horse¡¯s mane and planted a kiss on his side. Aron returned the gesture by licking her face affectionately. Saddling him she guided him out of the stables towards the vast fields that stretched at the back of her house. Her Dadaji, Balwant Rai Sharma owned thousands of acres, including the hills and forests that stretched for miles.


    As they rode towards the hills, her heart was thrilled with anticipation. Wind in her face and speed in her wings, that was all she craved for.


    *****


    About an hour later, a middle-aged woman knocked on the Oak doors of her mistress¡¯s room on the top floor of the villa. It was 7 AM, the usual time for the young mistress¡¯s pre-breakfast snack. A silver trolley stood next to her laden with food - pancakes, strawberry milkshake, scrambled eggs, and toast. Lots of butter and cream, apricot jam, and chocolate spread. It was enough food for at least three people. But she knew her mistress will polish it clean in a few minutes.


    Shaking her head she knocked on the door again. There was no sign of movement from inside.


    Making up her mind she pushed the door open and entered. The room was pristine, the huge circular bed in the center already made. A fresh morning breeze swayed the silk curtains hung on the open terrace doors as a young morning sun filled the room with a sparkling golden glow.


    The room was empty though, its young occupant, as usual, was already up and about.


    ¡°Aditi?¡± Kanta called in a low voice, afraid to wake up the others at this ungodly hour. 7 AM was early enough for her mistress to be up, but the other members of the household had different ideas. Mansi madam and Ravi Sir liked to sleep in late. Their daughter Nehal was usually up but didn¡¯t like to be disturbed in her yoga sessions. Their son Mohit was late to arrive home last night and would not wake up even if a bomb goes off in his ears. Her master Balwant Sharma though was an old, frail man. He had trouble falling asleep most nights. So whatever little he could catch in the morning was too precious to disturb.


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    ¡°Aditi...¡± She called moving to the bathroom, but it was empty. Sighing heavily, she moved to the terrace, just in time to see a young girl climbing up the wall. A clump of trailing vines hung low enough for her to catch a good hold. Practiced and sure-footed, she climbed like a cat, finally jumping over the terrace wall with feline grace.


    Aditi Sharma, the granddaughter of Balwant Rai Sharma and the eldest daughter of the house, landed on the marble floor of the terrace with a soft thud. For a moment, Kanta watched her mesmerized, it felt as if the golden sunlight had taken the form of a vibrant young maiden.


    ¡°Good morning, Chachi...,¡± Aditi leaped crushing Kanta in a bone-crunching hug.


    ¡°Hrmph...hmmph...aarrgh!¡± The maid squeaked trying to extricate herself, but she had to endure it for another ten seconds before the girl loosened her hold.


    ¡°Yumm... Pancakes!!¡± Aditi squealed and was about to grab one when Kanta slapped her hand away.


    ¡°Wash those grubby hands first.¡± She chastised rubbing her aching arms. Golden sunlight or not, the girl had the strength of hard rock. ¡°And I told you not to climb out of that terrace every morning. It¡¯s dangerous. Why can¡¯t you use the stairs like a normal person?¡± Kanta asked even though she knew the reason already. The room was at the back of the vast house. From there it took a long time to climb down the numerous stairs. Longer, if she had to tiptoe, minding her footsteps not to disturb the others. Climbing down the terrace wall was easy. It hardly took a minute.


    ¡°Because I am not normal. You should know that by now Chachi.¡± Aditi winked and ran to the bathroom to wash her hands. Kanta rolled her eyes. Normal, abnormal, semi-normal, she didn¡¯t care. She wanted Aditi to rein in her wildness. One of these days, it would backfire. One of these days, she¡¯d get into trouble.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry Chachi. I¡¯ve been doing it all my life. I won¡¯t fall and break my leg, I promise.¡± Grinning widely, Avani hugged her again planting a loud smack on her cheek. Kanta wiped it away furiously.


    ¡°You can at least wear something decent before jumping out on Aron. What if someone sees? What will people think?¡± She gave a horrified look to the very short shorts and a very cropped crop top that her young charge was wearing. Really, girls these days had no sense of propriety. In her day, this attire would pass as innerwear. For some girls, it still did, like Nehal in the other room.


    ¡°You know these are my favorite pajamas, Chachi. Dad got these for me when...¡± She stopped mid-sentence as a shadow passed her face.


    Kanta nodded wryly. Of course. These pajamas were bought when the girl was fourteen. At the time, they were too big for her, so had lain in the cupboard unused. Now she lived in them.


    ¡°So how far did you go this morning?¡± Kanta asked, trying to shrug the images of two beautiful people that floated in her mind.


    ¡°Just around the field. The usual,¡± the girl answered casually.


    Which meant she¡¯d gone to the hills, Kanta pursed her lips. It was reckless, she wanted to snap but controlled her urge.


    ¡°Why can¡¯t one of the grooms take Aron?¡± Kanta asked in irritation and glanced at the bandage covering the girl¡¯s left thigh. The wound was healing too slowly, some days she could see red dots on the girl¡¯s trousers. ¡°That wound will open up again if you keep riding like this. You need to rest. What¡¯s the point of being a doctor if you can¡¯t even take care of yourself?¡±


    Aditi shook her head. ¡°It will heal when it does Chachi,¡± she answered gulping her milkshake. ¡°And Aron wouldn¡¯t let anyone else touch him. He prefers me.¡±


    Yeah, right, Kanta sighed as she watched as the girl kept shifting her leg. Clearly, she was in pain. Her wounds took their own time to heal. Some didn¡¯t heal at all. Some left ugly scars. Kanta knew there was no way around it, doctor or not.


    ¡°So what¡¯s the plan for the day?¡± She asked placing a couple of painkillers next to Aditi''s plate. Her mistress was an odd one. Some days she spent out in the fields or at the racing club riding Aron from dawn till dusk. Some days her city friends descended on her and she was swamped in a string of parties and picnics. Some days she was just reclusive and stayed in her room. Kanta wondered what she did on those days. She would see her medical books scattered around the room and old photos of her parents littering the place.


    Aditi shrugged. ¡°The Raisinghs have got some new horses. Grandpa Raisingh wants me to have a look at them.¡±


    Kanta sighed. It was just as she expected. Aron had had his day¡¯s exercise but her mistress''s day had just begun. And it was clear she was looking forward to more horseplay.


    ***** *****

 2. An Unintentional Agreement

    It was past mid-morning when Aditi parked her jeep in front of the Royal Equestrian Club of Palampur. There were not many cars here today; patrons usually came towards the end of the week when most of the races were scheduled. Walking in, she waved at some jockeys and trainers sitting in the cafeteria. The stands which were usually full of viewers and racegoers were completely empty. The day was already unbearably hot and Aditi, despite wearing only a light t-shirt and jodhpurs, was already drenched in sweat.


    Walking towards the track behind, she emerged in the hot sun. There, in an enclosure a few meters away, were the Raisingh horses. A groom stood attention waiting for her, she noticed it was not Grandpa Raisingh''s usual groom.


    "Good morning, Balbir," she wished the young man. "What are you doing here today? And where is Ratan Chacha?"


    "Good morning, Di," he answered smiling. "Father''s unwell, so I am filling in for some time."


    "Is it his arthritis again?" Aditi asked wondering. "Has he been taking his regular medicines?"


    Balbir shook his head. "He takes when he remembers. And he usually forgets when he is in Badari."


    Aditi frowned. Badari was Ratan Chacha''s native, a distant hamlet on their land tucked up in the mountains that surrounded Palampur. She''d visited it with her parents when she was little. There was no electricity or water supply forget about a doctor or pharmacy. Ratan chacha couldn''t have chosen a worse place to be at this time.


    "Why is he there if he is ill?" she asked a little irritated.


    "They are setting a new government school there. They needed someone old to convince people to send their kids." Balbir shrugged and picked a saddle.


    Aditi hummed. A new school, now that was interesting! Maybe a visit to Badari was due soon. But for now, she had some new blood to taste. Turning to the enclosure she surveyed the horses with interest. A dappled grey mare, a chestnut bay, a black gelding. Aditi smiled. Grandpa Raisingh was more for show than substance, anyone could tell. The horses looked majestic. But even from this distance, she could tell not all were racehorse material.


    Soon she got busy, checking their hooves, coats, manes, tails, and finally teeth. Then she put on her helmet and took one out to the track.


    *****


    Dalpat Raisingh watched from the executive viewing gallery as Aditi took his grey mare for a ride. The horse looked a bit surly, being ridden by an unknown rider but Aditi was doing an excellent job of controlling it.


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    He shook his head in wonder. The girl never failed to amaze him. He had been there when she was born twenty-three years ago, it was a day to remember. The first daughter in the Sharma family in generations, her birth was celebrated like never before. She was the apple of Balwant''s eye. And after her parent''s tragic death, her status was automatically elevated to that of the most valuable person in the household. The girl had thrived with the attention hardly missing her parents. Or if she missed them, she hid it well.


    He was surprised when somewhere along the way she had also taken her medical degree. No one expected academic excellence from her, and neither did anyone expect her to make a career. But the girl had done it anyway. It might be something about the way her parents died that propelled her forward, Dalpat mused.


    "She''s grown into a stunning young woman," he said to Balwant, his childhood friend, who stood next to him watching his granddaughter proudly.


    "Yes," Balwant answered smiling. "Beautiful like her mother. Raucous and vivacious, like her father."


    Dalpat chuckled. Meera and Susheel couldn''t have been more different from each other. He still remembered them from years ago. Beautiful, shy, elegant Meera, the only daughter of an industrialist had fallen in love with Balwant''s rowdy elder son. They complemented each other perfectly. He had served to open her up and she toned him down. Then came Aditi and their happiness was complete. But alas, fate had planned something else for them.


    "I think it''s time to act on our earlier agreement. What do you say?" Dalpat asked thoughtfully.


    His friend didn''t answer immediately. He seemed to be lost in thoughts. "I don''t know, Dalpat. It was our understanding. But kids nowadays have their own ideas...especially about marriage and stuff." His eyes followed Aditi on the track, it looked like she was having some trouble with the bay horse. "She''s just finished her graduation. I don''t know if she wants to do a post-graduation."


    Dalpat scoffed. "She doesn''t want to pursue studies Balwant. I have asked her already. It''s that hospital she''s obsessed with currently."


    Both the old men fell silent. It was a pregnant silence, a guilty one. The deaths of Susheel and Meera hung in the air awkwardly.


    "We need a hospital here. We should have set it up ages ago, but we never cared enough." Balwant said tiredly.


    "Yes, yes. There is no point in crying over spilled milk," Dalpat waved off impatiently. "And she can set up her hospital after marriage, what''s the big deal? Ladies of her stature are supposed to have some philanthropic past-times. A hospital for the poor and needy would be perfect. And I am sure Vivaan wouldn''t mind."


    Balwant stiffened. He loved his friend, but it was statements like this that made him wish he''d never agreed to the match. It was in a moment of wine-induced bonhomie when he''d agreed to marry Aditi with Vivaan. She was six and he was ten. He''d pulled her hair and she''d pushed him into the pool. Both grandfathers had laughed heartily at their antics while watching from the poolside. It was then that the idea struck.


    "I don''t know Dalpat," he replied stiffly. "I won''t force her. It has to be her decision."


    "And she''d say yes," Dalpat replied serenely. "She likes Vivaan. And he is crazy for her. I don''t see a problem."


    "We''ll see," Balwant replied turning his eyes back to the track.


    "We will, indeed." his friend answered confidently.


    ***** *****

 3. Four Horses and A Thousand Buzzing Bees

    Out on the track, Aditi was having trouble with the bay horse. A while ago, when she¡¯d taken him out of the enclosure, he¡¯d looked compliant enough. Or at least better than the grey mare before him, who clearly had an imbalanced gait and didn¡¯t like firm handling. This bay had done much better until something went awry.


    He was buckling under her as if scared of something. She herself was feeling uneasy. Something pricked her senses, something sharp and dark. She couldn¡¯t pinpoint what it was.


    She stroked the horse¡¯s mane to put him at ease, and loosened the reins to give him some freedom to move. He calmed for a while and they did one round of the track without any further disturbance. Reaching back to the starting point, she got down and fed him an apple. He looked content and trotted back into the enclosure happily.


    Or did he look relieved? She couldn¡¯t tell.


    The heat needled her intensely and she took her helmet off to grab a water bottle. The unease in her heart was growing, she didn¡¯t know what it was that bothered her so. It wasn¡¯t the heat, she¡¯d been out on hotter days than this. It wasn¡¯t the new horse, she¡¯d handled worse than it. It was something else. Her heart just knew it.


    She gulped some water and splashed the rest on her face when out of the corner of her eyes she noticed a movement. Something moved in the shadows, in the dark thicket that bordered the track on one side. Aditi turned and went closer. Was someone watching her? She peered over the bushes, shading her eyes with her palm to ward off the harsh sun. she could see nothing. The dense dark was, as usual, forbidding.


    Aditi shook her head. It was ridiculous, no sane man would venture into that dark place full of thorny brambles and insects.


    ¡°When were these horses brought here?¡± she asked as Balbir brought forward the gelding, all saddled and ready for her.


    ¡°This morning,¡± he answered, handing her the reins.


    ¡°Has anyone else been near them except you?¡±


    He looked puzzled. ¡°No. It¡¯s just me. We brought them here in the trailer and I¡¯ve been with them ever since.¡±


    Aditi bit her lip and moved on to the gelding, studying it for a while. It looked content enough, neither spooked nor in pain. It also looked better than the mare and the bay, maybe this one was the best of Grandpa Raisingh¡¯s lot.


    Approaching it cautiously, she mounted it and set on an easy trot. It was alright for a while until it wasn¡¯t. Something went wrong, she knew it instantly.


    The horse shuddered under her and whinnied piteously. She tried to dig in her thighs, trying to keep balance, but it proved impossible. In an instant, it stood on its hind legs and she fell backward, her legs coming off the stirrups in one jerk. The groom was startled and shot forward to help while her grandfather watched from the distance in horror.


    A panicked scream left her lips as she fell backward. The horse leaped ahead making the groom jump aside to get out of the beast¡¯s path. This would be the end of her, a fall like this usually broke the rider¡¯s spine. Scrunching her eyes in desperation, she remembered her parents¡¯ faces and waited to hit the ground. But the impact never came.


    Instead, when she opened her eyes she found herself in a stranger¡¯s arms.


    *****


    Aditi felt a buzz. As if a thousand bees were humming in her ears. The sound was so disconcerting she scrunched her eyes shut to fend it off. When she opened her eyes there were more sounds. This time there were not just bees, but people. Alarmed voices, and shouts for help, from jockeys, trainers, and ground keepers. In a moment she was surrounded by a crowd but she had eyes only for the stranger.


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    He carried her with ease as if she was a twig and not a grown woman. His face was stiff, eyes dark and hard, along with his muscled body. She waited for him to look her way, but he seemed intent on his task. Finding the nearest bench in the shade he lowered her into it and stepped back. The gap left by him was instantly filled by someone.


    Irritated, Aditi peered, craning her neck through the gaps in the crowd to see where he was. But there was no sign of him. He was gone just as quickly as he appeared.


    *****


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Dadaji,¡± Aditi tried to placate a frazzled Balwant as he looked at her wildly. She was back at her home and was now sitting in her bed surrounded by her anxious-looking family. Her uncle and aunt stood on either side of her bed shooting her disapproving looks. A glass of warm milk stood on a bedside table while an irate Kanta Chachi stood in a corner.


    Aditi sighed. The only normal people around were her cousins who didn¡¯t look worried in the slightest.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay Di,¡± Mohit mocked as he sat jauntily swinging his legs on a side table. ¡°Everyone falls one day. Today it was your turn.¡±


    Aditi scowled. ¡°It wasn¡¯t my fault. Something was wrong with those horses.¡±


    ¡°Of course, Di,¡± he said with a straight face. ¡°It¡¯s always the horse¡¯s fault. Never the rider¡¯s.¡±


    Aditi made a face. Years ago when Mohit was learning to ride, they¡¯d had the same exchange. He kept falling from his pony and she mocked him mercilessly. Today he was just returning it with interest.


    Scrunching her nose scornfully she turned her head away. Her eyes landed on her sister, who sat daintily on the corner of the bed looking pristinely elegant. A slight frown of disapproval was all Aditi could spy on that otherwise sublime face of hers. She sighed. Nehal was the best-behaved of the lot. She kept to her studies and her yoga. Her friends were minimal and she didn¡¯t venture anywhere near horses. Aditi had to admit she was an ideal young woman if there ever was. A stark contrast to her own wild ways, she thought morosely.


    ¡°How did it happen?¡± Balwant asked tersely, looking at Aditi''s left leg that was propped up on a soft cushion.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Maybe it was the new track...or an unfamiliar rider.¡± Aditi tried to soothe though her words sounded strange even to her own ears. None of those reasons justified the gelding going rough on her.


    Balwant humphed. ¡°You are staying in bed until that leg gets better. And don¡¯t even think of riding or...¡± He wasn¡¯t able to finish his sentence. A most dazzling smile bewitched him and he was left speechless.


    Aditi gave her grandpa a brilliant smile, her best, one she reserved only for special occasions. It was the smile of her father; mischievous, appealing, full of sparkle.


    ¡°Please Dadaji...¡± she whinnied like the horse she¡¯d ridden that morning. ¡°I need to go to Badari tomorrow. I have to take medicines for Ratan Chacha. He must be struggling.¡±


    ¡°But...¡±


    ¡°Please, Dadaji! I promise I¡¯ll be back in a day.¡± She gave him her most pleading look, a look that would have melted the most heartless person. Her Dadaji didn¡¯t stand a chance, he was a softie.


    ¡°Let her go Babuji,¡± Her uncle Ravi chipped in to support her. ¡°You are worrying unnecessarily. Aditi looks fit as a fiddle. It would have been bad if she¡¯d taken the fall, but luckily for us, she escaped unscathed.¡±


    Aditi gave him a grateful look and turned back to her grandpa. ¡°Please Dadaji. I must go. And I¡¯m going with Aron. There¡¯s no chance of any danger.¡±


    Her grandpa gave a defeated sigh. There was nothing he could deny her, not when she pleaded like this. ¡°Promise me you¡¯d be careful,¡± he said tiredly. ¡°If that man wasn¡¯t there to save you today, you would have...¡± His throat was constricted with emotion.


    ¡°Who was he anyway? Did you ask?¡± Her uncle asked curiously.


    Who was he? Aditi wondered. He was not a local, she¡¯d never seen him around before. He wasn¡¯t even a usual racegoer, she knew it the moment she saw him. He was...different.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know Chacha,¡± she replied in a low voice. ¡°He was gone in a flash. I didn¡¯t get a chance to ask anything.¡±


    Her heart was filled with a strange agitation. She wished he¡¯d waited. She hadn¡¯t come across anyone who wanted to leave in a rush once they met her. Usually, they stayed longer, making small chats, trying to get friendly. This man seemed the opposite.


    Balwant shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯ll make some inquiries tomorrow. It won¡¯t be hard to find who he is. We must thank him properly.¡± Patting her head he got up to leave. The others followed him out except for Kanta Chachi.


    Chachi came closer and sat next to her. Her eyes were weary and it looked like she¡¯d already shed some tears.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry Chachi. I¡¯m alright. I didn¡¯t fall, everyone¡¯s worried for nothing.¡±


    Kanta shook her head. ¡°God bless that stranger, beta. If it was not for him, I can¡¯t think where we would be right now.¡±


    That stranger. His thought kept buzzing in her head for the rest of the day and well into the night when she finally closed her eyes. His dark eyes, his brooding silence, his restless energy hummed around her like angry bees around their prey.


    Closing her eyes she inhaled the night air thick with the scent of her mother¡¯s flowers. It did the trick, she felt calmer. Yet somewhere in her mind remained an unease. A niggling discontent that she couldn¡¯t quite place.


    ***** *****

 4. The Rich Girl and The Stupid Mule

    A few miles away in a wooden cottage tucked away in the hills, Dev threw his backpack on the floor. Opening the fridge, he took out a bottle of ice-cold water and chugged it down in one go. The heat of the day was waning, a cool evening breeze flew in through the open cottage door. It brought with it a scent of wet grass and he felt his body relax.


    Replacing the empty bottle back on the worktop, he walked to the bathroom and pulled over his damp shirt to examine his muscled arms. There were a few scratches, a few red bumps where the insects had bitten. He¡¯d been able to save his face with the insect repellent; it wouldn¡¯t have done if his face showed any marks.


    Taking a quick shower he changed into his white t-shirt and joggers. Then came back to the kitchen to pull out a frozen dinner from the freezer. His freezer was well-stocked with various healthy meal options to last at least a month. Thirty days, he¡¯d set aside, give or take a couple. That should be enough to complete his task to satisfaction.


    The dinner chucked in the microwave to defrost, he pulled a folder that lay on the countertop. It was not very thick, just a few pages of information on his target. If the size of the folder was any indication, his quarry was quite insignificant. A mere girl of twenty-four, recently graduated, horsing around until her family married her off. Or so he¡¯d thought, until today.


    Opening the folder at the first page he stared at it in annoyance - a passport-sized photo, name, age, occupation, hobbies, etc, etc, etc. It was all the information he could get in a short span of time. He had deemed it enough; after all how much information could you gather about a frivolous young woman?


    She was rich. The land he stood on belonged to her. It was old money; her family had connections in places he had never dreamed of.


    And she was popular. More than anyone in these parts. Everyone in fifty miles of Palampur knew her. Many admired her, loved, and respected her.


    Scoffing in irritation he snapped the folder shut and pushed it away. It had been utterly useless. Never before in his life had he been caught so underprepared. Never before in his life had he been caught so...off-guard.


    ¡°He loved her from the moment he saw her.¡±


    Ajay had told him two weeks ago sitting outside of the operation theatre. The significance was not lost on him, but he hadn¡¯t paid much attention. Vicki was after all a shy, inexperienced young man. It was no surprise that he¡¯d fallen for the first interesting girl he¡¯d laid his eyes on.


    Dev had never expected to be in the same danger. His experience in the field, after all, was legendary. Forewarned and forearmed, he was confident in his ability to withstand any feminine wiles. Yet, when the time came, he had all but lost his senses.


    The Golden Girl of Palampur - they called her and now he knew why. She oozed confidence. Riches, money, charisma, and last but not least - beauty!


    Nothing had prepared him for her. The agile gait of a gazelle, the feral confidence of a wildcat. Regal like a majestic peacock, yet so unaffected, untethered. Brimming with health and vitality, the power of youth radiated her like a hot, blazing sun. She was a storm riding those horses, his poor detective had no way to put that on those few sheets of paper.


    And then he¡¯d carried her in his arms. His heart had nearly stopped. It was the eeriest feeling as if he held his death in his arms and couldn¡¯t let it go.


    A beep from the microwave broke his reverie. Shaking his head furiously he slapped his face. What was he thinking? Gazelle? Wildcat? Peacock? He was certainly going bonkers. Vicki must have thought the same when he first met her. She had that effect on men, he knew that now after his first-hand experience. It was a pity really. Such a pity that the truth couldn¡¯t be further.


    She was no gazelle, they were innocent, fragile creatures. She was no wildcat, they were at least true to their nature. And regality enshrined honor. This girl was dishonorable, deplorable.


    He should have let her die. The thought had touched him for a split second. She deserved that fate after what she¡¯d done to Vicki. But then it would have been too easy. She would have died in a second and people around here would have mourned like she was an angel from the heavens. Little did they know she was no angel. She was a cruel, pretentious, despicable woman, one that deserved no love, respect, or honor.


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    He had something else for her in mind, something worse than death, that will remind her of her folly. Something permanent, more lasting in life than death, that will remind her of Vicki and ensure she¡¯d never forget the lesson.


    *****


    The village of Badari was a small hamlet in the hills miles away from Palampur. By the time Aditi covered a quarter of the distance, the flat plains of the fields were left behind and the land started sloping up into mountainous terrain.


    She rode Aron at a steady pace, he was used to carrying her weight. But today she had some additional load. Two heavy sacks dangled on Aron¡¯s either side containing books and stationery supplies for the new school. They alone weighed ten kilos each, Kanta Chachi had packed another sackful of samosas that would suffice not only the children but the entire population of Badari. Thankfully, Badari was only a small hamlet with about a hundred plus people, or Aron would have looked more like a mule than a majestic racehorse.


    As if sensing her thoughts Aron whinnied in protest, making his displeasure known. I am a thoroughbred horse. Not a donkey to carry all this, he tried to convey his mistress.


    ¡°Yes, yes, I know.¡± Aditi ruffled his thick brown mane. She felt bad for him but she only had herself to blame for going overboard with the school supplies. ¡°I''m sorry Aron. I know it¡¯s a heavy load to carry uphill but it¡¯s only a few miles. And you are a strong boy, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Aron nickered in agreement. He was indeed a strong boy, but how many strong boys carried heavy sacks for miles? Strong boys showed off their strength by defeating their enemies or by carrying helpless pretty maidens in their arms. Aron could easily defeat his opponents on a racing track, and he had no trouble carrying Aditi on his back. But expecting him to carry three sacks of the load on a hot day was just too much.


    He kept kicking and nickering, making his protestations as they went meandering through the mountain road. It was a road she had traveled often with her parents. They enjoyed this journey through the thick forest, it was calm, soothing, and quiet.


    Today it felt a little too quiet, she could hear the sound of another rider at her back. A tick-tock of horse hooves sounded behind her in the distance. She couldn¡¯t make out who it was, the dense shrubbery effectively hid the bends in the path. But she knew it was a single horse. She didn¡¯t think much of it as many used horses in these hills. They were the only mode of transport available.


    Shaking her head she focussed her mind on the path ahead. The further they went, Aron became more agitated. Deciding to lighten his load, Aditi reined in and got down to walk beside him.


    It was nearly noon, and the heat was palpable even through the thick green forest. Her t-shirt stuck to her back and her feet were baking in her leather boots.


    ¡°Sorry Aron, no water here for you...¡± she mumbled when she looked around but didn''t find any water hole for him. The horse whinnied in irritation. She offered him her own bottle but he snorted and turned his head away.


    ¡°Suit yourself!¡± Aditi snapped. ¡°Why do you have to be so difficult? I¡¯ll let you drink when we reach the next waterhole.¡± She took out an apple and fed him as a peace offering. He calmed down and graciously turned to offer her a ride. Sighing heavily, Aditi climbed up again. At this pace, it would be the night to reach Badari.


    About half an hour later, Aron¡¯s steps started faltering again. They were nearing a fork in the path. Straight ahead would lead them to the caves near the hilltop. Badari lay on the path to the right.


    Aditi tried to turn to the right, but she underestimated Aron''s agitation. His protests became more frantic.


    ¡°Whoa...Aron, Calm down,¡± Aditi somehow scrambled down and out of harm''s way. He whinnied and pulled away, snapping the reins out of her hands. She watched him helplessly as he turned right and bolted into the forest, leaving her alone to fend for herself.


    *****


    ¡°Wild horses should be shot down,¡± said a voice from behind her. ¡°And people who can¡¯t ride shouldn¡¯t be allowed near horses. Especially girls.¡±


    Aditi was too busy staring after Aron to heed the unsolicited advice. She couldn¡¯t believe it. The silly old mule had done a runner on her, what was she supposed to do now? All she had was her mobile, which was no use in these hills. She¡¯d lost her supplies, her water bottle, and Aron had taken everything with him.


    Stomping her foot in annoyance she swore loudly, mouthing a few choice words she''d learned at the racecourse.


    "That is not proper behavior for a young lady,¡± someone said again, but she was too occupied to notice.


    ¡°Aron!¡± she called, running towards the path he¡¯d taken. ¡°Aron, baby, come back...¡± She heard a snicker in the distance, but no one came back.


    ¡°I think that means he doesn¡¯t want to be here,¡± said the annoying voice again. ¡°Maybe he doesn¡¯t like you.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t ask for your opinion. Go away.¡± Aditi snapped without looking. Her eyes kept searching through the shrubbery for a gleaming chocolate coat but found nothing.


    She was panicking now. Badari was still miles away. She didn¡¯t mind walking, but there was no point going there without the supplies. She could as well turn back home, but she couldn¡¯t leave Aron. He was somewhere in this forest. She didn¡¯t know if he¡¯d be able to reach Badari or home by himself. He might get lost and wander away. Or worse, he might slip and fall in one of the gorges. That would be the end of him.


    ¡°Aron, you stupid mule! Come back this instant!¡± Aditi screeched in the general direction of the forest. A few birds fluttered up from their peaceful perch and a few monkeys whooped in irritation. But there was no reply from Aron.


    A sound of hooves behind her brought her back to her senses. She turned around. A man sat on a majestic black horse looking cool as a cucumber. It was someone she knew. Or rather someone she didn¡¯t.


    ***** *****

 5. A Damsel in Distress

    Aditi stared at the man, the stranger from yesterday. Sitting on his majestic black horse, he loomed over her like a demon from the dark ages. She had to crane her neck to get a better look. He was tall. One of the tallest she had seen. And broad. He was wearing faded jeans and a leather jacket. Even in this heat, his face looked pristinely cool. Rather stonelike.


    "It''s you." She said after some time, having found nothing else to say.


    He cocked his head. "And it''s you," he said with a faint sneer on his lips. "I should have known."


    "What do you mean?" she asked, annoyed. It was turning out to be a bad day. First Aron and now this man, cooly commenting on her like a spectator enjoying some street play.


    He shrugged his shoulders. "I just thought after yesterday''s mishap, you would be a bit more sensible and stay away from horses. But I guess I was wrong."


    She bit her lip in embarrassment and shook her head. "There was something wrong with those horses yesterday. They behaved weirdly. And Aron is my friend. He is not dangerous."


    He raised his brow and his sneer became prominent. "I can see how good friends you are. He couldn''t wait to be rid of you. Mind you, I don''t blame him. I have been listening for quite some time."


    Aditi''s eyes widened. "So you were intentionally trailing behind while I was struggling with Aron!".


    He shrugged his shoulders and smirked. "I''m always up for a bit of free entertainment."


    She gave him a dirty look and muttered some more curses under her breath. It was all Aron''s fault. She would never trust him again. But for now, she had to find him. Soon it would be too dark to see properly.


    "So what are you going to do now?" he asked casually. "Your horse is gone and it''ll soon be dark."


    She didn''t know. Badari was still miles away. And she was stranded in the middle of nowhere with this annoying man. Chewing her lips she considered her options. She could walk to Badari. That''ll take her hours and she wasn''t sure it would be safe walking in the dark. Then there were the beasts of the forest to consider. There were no wildcats, but they had plenty of wolves and foxes, not to mention the famous black bears. No. Going to Badari on foot was not an option.


    Unless, of course, she had a better means of transport. Something faster, that''s readily available. Her shrewd eyes fell on the horse. It was a beauty. Tall with powerful flanks, with a silky mane, and coat like sparkling water. A smile lit her face. Yes, it would do perfectly, if only she could get her hands on it.


    "Umm...can I..?" she started hesitantly but faltered. It was unlikely that he would let her have his horse, especially considering yesterday''s fiasco. His horse looked well-behaved enough, but what if it too went rough of her?


    "Yes?" he prodded encouragingly.


    "Can I please..umm...borrow your horse?" she asked, looking hopeful. He didn''t look like a bad man. He had helped her yesterday. It was entirely possible he would just hand her the reins and walk behind her like a true gentleman.


    "Give you my horse?" His eyes widened with shock. "And what am I supposed to do in this jungle? Wait for eternity for you to come back?"


    Did he just imply she would steal his horse? Her brow furrowed in irritation. "I''m not going to run away with your horse," she snapped. "I just need it to reach Badari before sundown. And you can come with me."


    "No." He replied, shrugging his shoulders. "I''m already late. I need to get going." he started to turn his horse. "All the best with your search."


    Her heart sank. Soon he would be gone, and that gorgeous horse with him. And any hope of finding Aron in this blasted forest. "Wait," she called and he stopped, eying her questioningly. "Where are you going at this time anyway? The caves are miles uphill, it will be night soon. And it''s not safe to ride these paths at night."


    He smiled mockingly. "Thank you for your concern, but unlike you, I can take care of myself and my horse."


    She seethed. He was cocky, arrogant, and rude and all things men like him were usually supposed to be. He was also distractingly handsome, she noted but pushed that thought away. She needed him right now. Or rather, his horse.


    "I need to go to Badari," she said after a brief pause. "And I also need to find my horse."


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    "So?"


    "So I need your horse to go to Badari to get help to search for Aron." She finished her list and waited expectantly. It was the best way to find Aron. And possibly the only way.


    "No," he answered without sparing a moment.


    "No?" What kind of a man was he? Wasn''t he supposed to help damsels in distress? Did she not look like a damsel in distress? Yesterday he''d saved her from falling. And today he was ready to leave her alone in this forest?


    She contorted her face to make it look sadder, pitiful, and all things she could think of. She was not very good at acting, but she tried to imitate Mohit when he fell from his pony.


    "Don''t make faces. It doesn''t suit you." He said dryly and she snapped back to her annoyed expression.


    "Well, I need help. And I can return the favor if you deign to help." She crossed her arms and waited. He looked new here. Tourists always needed help navigating these hills. She could offer that much if he was willing to lend his horse.


    "No." He replied after a prolonged deliberation.


    She scowled. This was proving to be a waste of time. She should have already gone rather than dawdling here with him. "Why not?"


    "Two reasons," he said in a bored voice. "A. I don''t trust you to handle Eros. From what I have seen since yesterday, you can''t be trusted with a docile pony let alone a willful stallion."


    "Yesterday was just a freak accident!" Aditi stomped her foot in annoyance, nearly close to tears. How many times were they going to taunt her for yesterday? It was a freak accident, her first-ever fall. She had never fallen from a horse before, even when she first learned to ride. But what would this stranger know about her anyway?


    "Look, you don''t know me. I have ridden horses all my life. I can take care of myself. I won''t fall again, I promise."


    "I know you very well, Ms. Sharma," he replied coldly. "And I am least bothered with you. I am worried about Eros. I can''t afford to lose him if he decides to bolt on you."


    One, two, three...she counted up to ten. Then to twenty. It took her a while to calm down. So he knew her. Fair enough. Many people knew her around. And maybe after yesterday''s incident, he took special pains to inquire about her. The thought gave her tickles but she ignored them stoically. He was just a jerk, more concerned about his horse than her. That was fine too. Maybe she would do the same in his shoes. It was indeed a lovely horse.


    "And the other reason is that I don''t want to waste any more time. I am already late because of you," he said calmly.


    She balled her fists and ground her teeth. Never before in her life had she been insulted this way. Never before had she been refused by a man; a handsome man; a young, dashing, outrageously, provocatively, maddeningly handsome man. She scowled and shook her head. What was the matter with her? He was a rude oaf who didn''t deserve those adjectives. And she needed to reach Badari and find Aron. Focus, she scolded herself.


    "Please. I need help. It''d soon be dark. Aron might get hurt. I just need your horse to reach Badari faster. I''ll return it tomorrow, safe and sound." She stopped for a breath looking for his reaction. He was watching her quietly, which meant he was considering. That gave her hope. "You seem to be a tourist. Badari is a beautiful village. You''ll like it. And I can help you find a guide tomorrow. There''s a Shiva temple on the hilltop and some other places you can visit."


    His lips pressed in a thin line as if he was considering a very detestable prospect. Her hackles raised with each passing moment. He looked like the kind of man who didn''t like impromptu changes. Meeting her, helping her, wasting time on her must be at the bottom of his touristy agenda.


    "Fine," he said, relenting finally and her shoulders sagged with relief. "You can ride Eros."


    "Thanks!" Moving forward she placed a small hand on the horse''s side. Eros. Even the name was majestic. An excited shiver ran down her spine as she patted the animal. He didn''t look intimidating like his master. Neither did he flinch when she stroked his silky mane.


    She extended her hand for the reins and waited for him to get down, but he didn''t move.


    "Umm...may I have the reins?" she asked, a little confused.


    "No," he answered nonchalantly. "You''ll ride with me. As I said, I can''t trust you to handle my horse."


    Her eyes widened. "But...I can''t..." she bit her lip in uncertainty. She hadn''t given a thought to this possibility. She''d asked just for his horse, not for his manly escort.


    He shrugged his shoulders as if he didn''t care. "I love my horse too much to let a girl like you ride it. Decide for yourself. Or I''m leaving."


    She stood staring at him, not knowing what to do. Moments passed in silence as he looked at her impatiently. Finally, he shook his head and reached out to take her arm. She was too flustered to think straight when his other arm went around her waist to pull her up. His cold leather jacket felt like a hard wall of iron against her clammy back. The sweat on her skin turned to tiny shards of ice as he nudged his horse forward on the path to Badari.


    *****


    She couldn''t remember much of what happened after that. She was enclosed inside hard walls of iron, she couldn''t even look around to see where they were going. The horse rode at a steady pace, not in the least bothered with her extra weight. She wondered if its master realized she was there, she felt so small sitting next to him. The path went through the hills, upwards and onwards. At times he bent forward for balance, almost pinning her between him and the horse. At times she leaned back, almost disappearing into his broad chest. Her body felt icy and her brain went numb. The angry bees from yesterday returned humming even louder in her ears. Any thought of finding Aron or reaching Badari went out of the window. Here and now, her body and mind were, in this moment, with him.


    Sometime after the sunset and orange dusk shrouded them. Birds returned to their nests chirping excitedly and the grass rippled with a cool evening breeze. She closed her eyes and inhaled, savoring the moment. There was something about it, something that made it special. She knew it would be gone soon. It would be gone the moment she let it go.


    She heard a bustle ahead and finally came to her senses. Hours had already passed. They had already reached Badari.


    ***** *****

 6. A Girl Like Her

    Ravi Sharma was a reasonable man. Being the second son of Balwant Sharma, he was used to being second in everything. In his case, it was also the last place in the family hierarchy as he was the youngest.


    But he''d never complained. The coveted first place was already claimed by his charismatic elder brother. Susheel Bhai was the handsome son - intelligent, smart, and infinitely more capable. Equally good in sports and studies, the trophies he''d won graced many places of pride in the house. Ravi looked up to his brother in awe, always aspiring to be like him, yet always failing.


    His own achievements were quite modest. He''d been an average student, preferring to watch from the sidelines as his brother went on to win accolades. In some obscure corner of this vast house, there were a couple of small trophies Ravi had won in his day. His father had been horribly embarrassed thinking they were awarded only for the Sharma family name rather than any skill Ravi displayed in those competitions. They stayed in that corner like an unwanted blot on an otherwise beautiful portrait. Over the years they were pushed even further to make more room for his brother''s glittering achievements.


    He sighed as he examined the oak-paneled walls of his father''s impressive study. It was a place of legends, generations of Sharma children displayed their achievements proudly on these walls. There was no trace of Ravi here, or of his equally mediocre children.


    His eyes fell on a newly installed glass cabinet that contained Aditi''s trophies from her childhood. She, like her father, had no trouble filling it to the brim. The latest addition was her degree certificate that showed first class with distinction in several subjects. Gleaming next to it, stood her racing trophy she''d won this last season. In the slanting evening sunlight, it gleamed with a ghastly grin making Ravi shiver with the familiar uneasiness.


    "So what is it that you wish to talk about?" Sitting behind his dark Mahogany desk his father finally lifted his head from the document he was reading. In the fading light of the room, he looked older than his seventy-two years. Ravi wondered how many more years the old man would add before he called it a day.


    "Umm...I need more money." he made his request.


    His father leaned back in his chair and gave him a look. It was one of those looks that never failed to convey what a failure of a son he was.


    "I think we''ve had this discussion before, Ravi. I can no longer cover your racing debts. You and your wife need to start living within your means, which are not insignificant if you use them judiciously."


    Ravi listened as the old man droned on. It was the same lecture every time. Live within their means. It was easy for him to say it, after all, when had he ever enjoyed his life? And It was not like Ravi didn''t try. Every time he bet on a horse, he made sure it was the best, the fastest, and the most reliable. It was pure bad luck that he lost more than he won.


    "Just this once, Babuji. I''ll make sure next time..."


    "Next time you''ll beg with Aditi, won''t you? Like you did the last time?" his father''s voice raised a few decibels and Ravi cringed. The house was full of servants. And the walls had ears. Yes, it was his habit to alternate between Aditi and his father for money. It just worked better that way. The girl had never complained, he wondered why his father was so peeved about it.


    "How can you be so callous Ravi? It''s Meera''s legacy for her daughter. Have you no shame squandering it on your racing?"


    "I didn''t ask her father. She herself gave..."


    "She gave because unlike you, she cares for our family reputation." his father''s eyes flashed with suppressed wrath. Ravi shifted his eyes to focus out of the window over the old man''s head. Some horses grazed lazily in the meadow beyond that stretched to the horizon. It was all their land. It never ceased to amaze him, just how much they owned.


    "She gave because she has too much, father," he said calmly. "She earns from her racing. She is the sole heir to Meera Bhabhi''s wealth and Bhai''s investments. And she''s still going to get half of yours. I only get a monthly allowance..."


    "Enough!" his father quivered with rage. Ravi bowed his head and waited for the tirade. He knew this would come. This would come the moment he started the comparison.


    "Aditi is only getting her due, what''s left for her by her parents. The girl doesn''t spend a penny on herself. Her racing money goes to her hospital fund and she doesn''t touch her parent''s money. But you!" his father looked lost for words when it came to him. "If you are not careful, Ravi, your children might end up penniless. I am warning you. Mend your ways, or there won''t be anything left in your name to pass on to your children."


    Ravi sighed. His children were not his concern at the moment. His debts were. And he was sure when the time came, his children would be looked after by their formidable grandfather and their wealthy cousin.


    "So you are not going to help me?" Ravi asked nonchalantly. Maybe he should have just waited for Aditi to return from Badari. Last time she had signed the cheques without any questions. The girl was very sweet, really. Always smiling, jovial like her father. Maybe he should stick with her from now on. These exchanges with his father were getting really tiresome.


    "No," his father answered stonily, "and I forbid you to ask Aditi."


    "In that case, I want my share of the property." Ravi tilted his head. His need was rather urgent, and his father wasn''t leaving him any choice.


    There was no reply. Ravi watched as his father considered his options. Balwant Sharma was a shrewd man. He knew when to attack and when to step back. And he wasn''t ready to relinquish his control yet, not when his orphaned granddaughter still needed his protection. The property will stay undivided, until Aditi was married off safely, with her share securely in her name. And then Ravi would get his share if his father deemed it fit.


    Balwant opened a side drawer to take out a checkbook and Ravi smiled a satisfied smile. Nothing was in his name, yet he knew everything belonged to him. Susheel Bhai was long gone, God bless his soul, and with him all his father''s haughty pride. Balwant Sharma now had only one living son. And unfortunately for him, that survivor was Ravi Sharma.


    *****


    "Aron arrived here an hour ago," Ratan Chacha said from his charpoy as Aditi sat in front of him cross-legged, eating a simple dinner. It was dark already and half the village was already asleep. She''d done Chacha''s check-up and changed his medication explaining what it did. He had nodded his head as if he understood, but she knew he would blindly take whatever she gave him.


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    "He''s a really clever horse, finding his way through the forest all by himself. It was careless of you to lose him like that Aditi," Chacha scolded and Aditi grimaced.


    "It wasn''t my fault, he bolted on me!" she protested again, but Chacha wouldn''t listen.


    "It was foolish to load him with such heavy stuff. We were about to send a search party for you, but by God''s grace, you met Sahib." He sent a toothy grin in the direction of her companion who sat on a rickety chair balancing his plate in one hand. He gave Chacha a smiling nod but didn''t spare her a glance.


    "She nearly begged, and being a gentleman I couldn''t say no," he said with a straight face. Aditi scowled.


    Ratan Chacha smiled mischievously. "I can understand, Sahib. There are not many who can say no to a girl like her."


    "You are right," his Sahib agreed. "It''s hard to say no to a girl like her."


    A Girl like her. Why did it sound different coming from him? It felt strange - something unsavory, almost disdainful.


    Was it because she''d forced him to come here? Maybe he thought this trip was a waste of time. Maybe the food wasn''t to his liking. Or maybe it was just his face, set in a permanent frown.


    But then he was enjoying his talk with Chacha, and he was polishing his plate nicely. His sourness seemed to be reserved solely for her. They hadn''t exchanged a single word during their whole ride. She so wanted to know his name, but somehow knew she wouldn''t get a straight answer.


    Sighing heavily she got up and took her empty plate out to wash. She had to find a guide for him pronto and send him on his way. She couldn''t put up with those haughty silences anymore or the barbed taunts. Neither with the icy prickles nor the buzzing bees.


    *****


    Darsh walked behind the boy towards a small cottage in the distance that was allotted to him for the night. It was one of the few empty cottages here, the old man, Ratan Chacha, had told him. It was used for stray tourists that wandered this way in search of a more genuine holiday experience. Darsh had loved the picturesque village the moment they entered it. They were welcomed by a gaggle of children waving samosas and the horse Aron had come nickering to greet his mistress. Evidently much happier without his baggage, he had proceeded to give his mistress a welcome lick only to be swatted away by her. She had then proceeded to give him an earful, which was quite entertaining to watch. Darsh had a hard time maintaining his scowl while the children clamored around her and Aron whinnied in protest.


    He''d watched it like a nice, entertaining road show, for that was what it was. She would make a great politician one day, she had a natural talent for it.


    Shaking his head he entered the cottage. An oil lamp burned on a wooden table bathing the simple interior with a flickering warm glow. A small bed occupied a corner near the window. The rest of the small space was empty. Dropping his backpack on the floor he handed a coin to the boy. He accepted it with glee and scampered off in the dark.


    Stretching his arms he gave a yawn, then pulled his jacket off to examine his itchy arms. The scratches from yesterday were still sore, now red and swollen. He had probably touched some poisonous plant in that thicket. The rash was spreading, making him extremely uncomfortable. The heat and chafing with his leather jacket had made it even worse. Many times during their ride he''d wanted to take the jacket off, but had controlled the urge. He didn''t want to touch her, the most venomous of all.


    Opening his backpack he got his phone out and dialed a number. The receiver picked it on the third ring.


    "How are you Shaurie?" his mother asked in a tired voice. "I have been waiting for your call for so long, beta. Where have you been?"


    "I''m sorry, Ma. Just tied up in some business," he answered consolingly. "How are you Ma? And how''s Vicki?"


    "He''s the same," his mother''s voice grew heavy. "The doctors are monitoring, but there''s no change in his condition."


    "And Aunt Swetlana? Did she come to visit?"


    "Not yet," his mother sighed. "She''s in Mauritius on a holiday. The hotel staff gave her the message but we haven''t heard from her."


    Darsh scowled. He wondered how the two sisters were so different. His mother was the most loving, caring human being he''d come across, while his aunt Swetlana was the opposite. Years ago, she had come to them after abandoning her husband. Since then, she''d lived a life of a free bird, leaving Vicki to the care of her older sister, his Ma.


    Poor Vicki. It was unfortunate how he''d ended up with such despicable women in his life; first a wayward mother, and now this treacherous girl.


    "That''s a satellite phone." He heard a mellow voice behind him and whirled around. Ms. Sharma stood in his door luminescent like a ghost against the dark night. The phone slipped from his hand falling to the earthen floor with a dull thud. Bending in a flash, he picked it up and made sure the call was disconnected. This was supposed to be a business trip, and his Ma knew he didn''t use satphone on a business trip.


    "Yes, it''s a satellite phone, Ms. Sharma. It''s quite useful in this area as there are no mobile networks. I''m sure many tourists use them in these hills." He gathered his wits and threw her a glance. It didn''t seem like she overheard him. She was too busy staring at his phone.


    He noted she was still in her riding gear, though she seemed to have taken a bath. Her hair that was in a tight plait in the day was now loose, falling freely on her slender shoulders nearly reaching her waist. Something wet glistened on her neck, then trailed down to the hem of her t-shirt, before disappearing into the softness. He kept his eyes firmly on her face, refusing to let them wander southwards. She was temptation incarnate and he couldn''t afford to lose his sanity.


    "Not many. In fact, I haven''t seen any, except for maybe one," she said almost to herself, staring at the phone. Her face was pale and her eyes distant as if she was remembering something or someone.


    "Was it someone special?" he asked casually. The darkness outside the cottage thickened and the air seemed to have stilled. Say it was Vicki, he urged her in his mind. Tell me the truth, you abominable woman!


    She shook her head as if to shrug off an unpleasant memory. "No. No one of importance," she said with irritation. He clenched his fists. "Anyway, I''m only here to tell you that I haven''t been able to find any guide yet. Most of the men here are old and invalid like Ratan Chacha. I can''t ask them to go with you. And the young men of the village are out in Palampur for work."


    "Oh, that must be really inconvenient for you," he commented dryly, "having no young men available in the village."


    As if she didn''t know before, his brain sneered. She must have known this before begging for his help, the lying, conniving bitch! It was all a ploy to get close to him. The concern for Aron was fake, just like the rest of her.


    "What do you mean?" Her eyes flashed with anger.


    "I just meant what I said. Not having any able-bodied men around must be a real inconvenience." He shrugged his shoulders. "So how do they manage without any young men? Surely the old and invalid need looking after?"


    "They stay with their families; ladies and children. And their sons visit on their weekly days off. There are a few who work as guides, but that''s not a full-time job for them. They take up ad-hoc work and that''s why I couldn''t find any for you."


    He nodded in agreement. It was all a good explanation, a believable one. Possibly true, who knew?


    "So what are you going to do about the guide? Remember you promised." He prodded again. Their interactions were important. His actions and her reactions, her little quirks, her easy maneuvres. He was watching her carefully.


    "There are a couple of more people I can ask tomorrow. If they can''t make it, I''ll go with you," she said as her eyes trailed past his muscled shoulders. He smiled in triumph. This was just as he expected. She hadn''t found a guide for him. And was now itching to go with him herself. What more proof did he need?


    "But it might be late as I have to do a check-up for some more people. You can go ahead if you like..." she continued thoughtfully.


    He shook his head in wonder. It was commendable, the elegance, the ease with which she did it. The honesty in her eyes, the sincerity in her words could almost fool anyone. Her noble profession was a perfect foil for her black heart. She was going to run a free medical camp for the villagers in the morning. That will delay their departure. And if they started late, they''ll have to spend the night at the hilltop. How convenient, and smooth!


    "That''s fine," he said outwardly. "I am in no rush. I can have a look around this village until you are done."


    She nodded and turned to leave. He watched her shapely legs as she made to leave, then stopped and turned again. "And that''s a poison ivy rash on your arm. I''ll send someone with cream and antihistamines. You''ll feel better in a few days."


    Turning her back on him she walked out. He watched her as she took long strides and disappeared in the night.


    ***** *****

 7. A Doctor, a Racer, a Beast of Sorts

    Aditi rode to the distant hut with her bags of equipment and medicines. It was nearly past mid-morning and she had only covered about a third of the village. Although a small hamlet, Badari was sparsely populated. It took her a long time to visit each house. Even though Aron was much better behaved today and didn''t mind carrying her with her supplies, with every passing hut, her mood soured, and her heart sank worse.


    The olds and the invalids, as she''d called them yesterday, were people she knew personally. Many had worked at their farms and stables ever since Aditi remembered. Some were Dadaji''s childhood friends, many knew her father well. They welcomed her with open arms. Each of them had stories to tell, and fond memories to share of her father and mother. It would have been great visiting them, if not for her nagging conscience.


    She worked with them smiling, prescribing medicines, and giving whatever she had with her right then. But it was hardly enough. Some of them were on the brink, she could tell the moment she saw them. They needed proper treatments and an accessible hospital. The nearest one was miles from Palampur, too far in case of emergency. It would be too late by the time they reached; she knew it from her personal experience.


    The gentle face of her Ma kept weighing on her mind. She was seven months pregnant when the tragedy struck. Aditi had sat by her side in panic, clutching her clammy hand as her Ma went through spasms of pain. Her father had run around, trying frantically to summon help, but it was no use.


    In the end, Ma bled to death in her father''s arms. It was a day that broke him apart. He was never the same again.


    It was also a day that made her. She had decided her goal then. Her medical degree was just the first step toward it. She knew she still had a long way to go, but seeing these people today was a reminder that she needed to hurry up.


    Sighing heavily, she trudged to the next house. She had a lot to cover, before taking that strange stranger to the caves.


    The thought dampened her spirits even further. She hadn''t been able to find a guide. The two people with whom Ratan Chacha checked this morning already had jobs lined up for the day. It would have to be her; she would have to go to those caves with him.


    Wiping the sweat off her brow she licked her parched lips. It had been twelve years since she last visited those caves. Twelve years since her Ma slipped in one of those caves and breathed her last.


    *****


    It was well past noon when they were finally on their way out of Badari. Aditi had gobbled a small lunch and given Aron some hay while she''d squeezed in a quick bath. The stranger was already there, ready with his horse. She didn''t bother to ask if he''d eaten or not. He was well able to take care of himself and his horse, he''d told her yesterday.


    They rode downhill at a steady pace with her in the lead. She could tell from his scowl that he didn''t like to follow. Or maybe he didn''t like to follow her in particular. Or maybe he didn''t like her in general. The last one was her best guess. His words from yesterday were still fresh in her mind.


    Whatever. She was already in a bad mood and had no inclination to mollify him. He could keep his sour mood and she would keep hers. The melancholy in her heart seemed to have settled for the day. Try as she might, she couldn''t shirk it away.


    She kept her eyes on the path ahead. The day was hot and she could feel the sting on her skin. Her thigh was throbbing with the constant riding, she wondered if the sutures would come off. That would be the third time in a row, Kanta Chachi would not be pleased at all.


    They rode in silence covering a good distance at a steady pace. The fork was miles ahead but the horses were fresh. It was entirely possible they made it before time.


    *****


    His companion was in a dour mood today, Darsh could tell it from the way she rushed her horse. She had been that way since morning when he''d crossed her a few times on his way around the village.


    The smiles she gave to the villagers were strained, she looked solemn, slightly weary. He had to give it was hard work going around the village in that heat. She had no need for it, she could as well have set up shop at the village square and waited for them to come to her. It would have been a better act; he would even have clicked some pictures of it then. But the very fact that she''d gone to them told him her concern for those people was genuine.


    Hmph! He pursed his lips and shirked the irksome thought. What did it matter anyway? He didn''t need to decipher her quirks anymore. He had already arrived at his conclusion. The very fact that she was here with him was proof of her guile.


    He sighed as he followed her like a good dog. His eyes were on the path and consequently on the young rider ahead. A wide ditch appeared in the path ahead of her. She lifted her hips in one fluid motion and glided her horse above it. Stifling a groan he wiped his brow. Gazelles, panthers, and peacocks, could all take a bow. Aditi Sharma was a beast in herself.


    It was pure torture. Watching her ride ahead of him swaying on that beautiful horse, was. pure. torture. The way her hips curved at the base of her spine, the way her strong thighs gripped the horse was too much for him. All sorts of wayward fantasies knocked at his mind. Looking away was not an option either as that would just acknowledge her effect on him.


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    Pulling his water bottle out he gulped a few sips. Be it the heat overhead or the rider in front, he had to cool himself down. There was only one effective way to divert his mind. That was to talk to her, or rather taunt her.


    "Aren''t you supposed to say something? What kind of a guide are you?" He mocked her from behind.


    "We are in the middle of a forest," she snapped in irritation. "What do you want to know? About the flora and fauna?"


    He humphed in disdain. "I bet you know nothing about flora and fauna. A green doctor and a wannabe racer, what would you know about trees?"


    "At least I can tell poison ivy from other plants," she shot back without wasting a moment. That shut him up. Poison Ivy. It was such an apt name. It suited her well. She was like the rash bothering him at this very moment. Itchy and irritating. Growing on him without his consent.


    They crossed a stream and stopped to water the horses. He took his jacket off and saw her eyes going to his arm. A knowing smile lit his face.


    "So you are a doctor and a racer," he said, cocking his head. "Tell me which one is your hobby and which one is your profession. Mind you, I haven''t met any doctor who goes gallivanting on horses. Neither have I met a racer who goes pretending to care about people."


    He was an expert at snide remarks and made an extra effort when it came to her. He saw the effect instantly as her face turned ashen. "I''m sorry but I don''t discuss my personal life with strangers," she replied caustically. "I am your guide. Not a friend."


    Ah! There it was! A roundabout way of suggesting she wanted more. Friendship, it was, as of now. But it could be much more, sooner or later. It was cute, really. So innocuous, yet so obvious.


    "That''s very wise," he nodded with a sly smile. "That kind of sharing should only happen between friends. So, would you like to be my friend Ms. Sharma?" he asked, looking straight into her eyes.


    *****


    "Would you like to be my friend Ms. Sharma?" he asked, looking straight into her eyes.


    For a moment they stared at each other, eye to eye, man to woman. It was enough to show what he thought of her. Callousness, disdain, and contempt. His eyes held a cold indifference. She didn''t know what she had done to earn it. But she knew it was there.


    Nudging Aron on, she turned back to the path. There was a sting in her heart, she didn''t know the reason why. It could be because of her parents'' memories that suddenly flooded her mind. It could be those sick people that she''d vowed to help, yet was nowhere near it. Or it could be because of the futility of this conversation. Friendship was not what he was after, that much was clear to her.


    "We need to get going," she said cuttingly. "Let''s not waste time on idle talk."


    They started again with her in the lead. His unanswered question hung in the air awkwardly. He seemed to have realized the tension, as he soon broached a new topic. "This forest belongs to your family doesn''t it?"


    She didn''t reply. She had forgotten he already knew about her. How much he knew was the question.


    "So tell me about it. How did your family come across such vast land?" he prodded.


    She closed her eyes. She could have given the same response as before and that would again lead to the same awkward question. She''d better take this in a different direction. "Why? Haven''t you already got that information from your sources?"


    "Not really," he carried on nonchalantly. "I only heard the grooms laugh at you when you fell from your horse at the club. And then they joked how owning the whole Palampur doesn''t make Ms. Sharma the best rider in the world. So I deduced you must be the said Ms. Sharma and your family must own the land."


    Whoa! So that was how he knew about her! From grooms laughing at her when she fell from the horse! And here she was, thinking he''d actually taken the pains to know about her!


    The sting in her heart now reached her eyes. It was very unusual for her to feel this raw. Maybe it was the prospect of seeing those caves where her Ma was last alive. Raising an unsteady hand to her face she wiped her brow, then her eyes. He couldn''t see her face, so there was no reason to hide anything. But even if he did, she knew he wouldn''t have cared. A stranger he was, and a stranger he would remain.


    The thought made her heart twist weirdly. She clenched her fists and her heels dug into Aron. Thinking it was a signal to go faster he jolted ahead catching her in surprise. There was a little kerfuffle as she scrambled to gain her bearings and control him again. A minute later they had settled down, going at a much slower pace.


    "Are you okay, Ms. Sharma?" his voice behind cracked with laughter. "Do you need my help?"


    She gritted her teeth. The man had an uncanny knack for unsettling her. This day was as bad as yesterday when she''d asked for his help to reach Badari. And the day before, when Grandpa Raisingh''s rowdy horses put her to eternal shame. In fact, now that she thought of it, every day since she met him had turned out to be worse than the other.


    "Ms. Sharma? Do you need my help? You can ride with me again if you like. We can tie your horse to Eros."


    "No thanks. I can manage." she somehow said without flipping out. "And for the last time, STOP taunting me about that fall. It wasn''t my fault!"


    "If you say so," he shrugged suppressing his laughter.


    Her moroseness returned and so did her dread for what lay ahead. This was bad. A taunting man at her back and a haunting cave ahead. Maybe she should just make some excuse and turn home at the fork.


    *****


    The taunting had set her on edge, he could sense that. Would she think of escaping him at the fork? He wondered. No, that wouldn''t do. He had plans for their stay at the hilltop, they would all go awry if she left in the middle.


    "So what places are there to see at the hilltop?" he asked as they neared the fork.


    "A few," came a short, distracted answer. "The Shiva temple, the caves. There''s a Sunset Point as well."


    They covered the last few meters and arrived at the junction. The path to the left would take them down to Palampur. The path to the right would lead them to their destination. He watched her as her eyes flickered to the left, then to the right. He could see her dilemma, yet she didn''t speak a word.


    "I think there is one more attraction there I would like to visit. I heard about it from some friends who visited here a while ago," he said and cocked his head.


    "Which place was it?" she asked, a little surprised.


    "The Lover''s Point," he said and watched as her face went pale.


    ***** *****

 8. The Lovers Point

    The Lover''s Point. It was a place in these hills, Ajay had told him. A mile from the fork, about half a mile below the hilltop. Horses could go all the way, but cars had to be parked at the fork.


    That was where the four boys had gone camping on their last day in Palampur. Vicki had been too gloomy nursing his broken heart, but the others had persuaded him. They had found a little spot in the trees nearby and set up their tents. This was where they had spent the final day in Palampur, before returning back to Delhi.


    They''d had a good time roaming around; eating, drinking, and merrymaking until she too had arrived with her friends. Unable to control himself, Vicki confronted her in front of them. And in that humiliation, she''d decided to unleash her power.


    Yes, she was powerful. In this part of the world, she was the uncrowned princess. The locals revered her. They would rush to her defense at the slightest provocation. Poor Vicki had no chance.


    He himself had to be careful. He was playing with fire, he knew it too well. She was not just any random girl he''d punish and get away with. There would be consequences, and severe ones if he wasn''t careful.


    The Lover''s Point. That was where it had all gone awry. And that was where he wanted to take her. Not to confront her, oh no. Confrontations didn''t end well here. He had to be tactful. Rather more delicate.


    He watched as her face paled. There was a flicker of unease, then it set in a rigid mask. Turning her horse, she moved a step closer to face him properly. Body taut with the stillness of a predator, her dark eyes scrutinized him intensely. He felt his soul bare. Gone was the girl blazing with life and laughter, this one looked full of unfathomed darkness.


    He felt a shiver down his spine, even his horse fidgeted nervously.


    "There is no such place here. There is no Lover''s Point," she said in a dead voice. "And as agreed, I''ll take you to the temple, caves, and Sunset Point. The rest of the places, you can visit by yourself."


    "There is a Lover''s Point, my friends told me." He pursed his lips and stood his ground. "And I remember no such agreement. You promised to show me everything there''s to see."


    "I promised to find you a guide." She retorted without batting an eyelid, her silky smooth voice cut sharp as a knife blade. "And as your guide, if I say there''s no Lover''s Point, then there''s no Lover''s Point!"


    Power radiated her like heat waves as her words sank in. The princess had spoken. At that moment, he knew the place would erase itself off the face of the earth if it ever existed.


    She turned her horse and kicked her shin on his flank. The horse surged forward manically and disappeared on the path upwards.


    *****


    In the days that followed, he always looked back to this moment as a warning. He''d noticed the shift in her. He should have paid heed then. He should have changed his course, yet he hadn''t. All he''d done was watch her mesmerized as she stormed away. The sheer dominance, the utter confidence. She knew she owned the place, the people. And in that moment, she owned him.


    The horse had galloped on the path for a time and then disappeared into the trees. He stayed on the path going at a steady pace. There was no point chasing.


    Moreover, he needed time to settle himself, calm his erratic heartbeat and take stock of the situation.


    Something was not right; he could feel it in his bones. He''d expected her to look guilty. There should have been some sense of wrongdoing, even regret. But he''d seen nothing. No regret, no guilt. Not an iota of remorse. She seemed to have chosen an easy path. Declaring the place never existed, and nothing ever happened was maybe her way to shirk her responsibility. The sheer arrogance of it was astounding. Anger had radiated her like heat waves, he had never seen anyone emitting such a menacing aura. People had told him he himself gave them jitters sometimes, but he had laughed them away. Now that he was at the receiving end, he thought he understood them better.


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    He trudged on quietly for about a mile until he reached yet another signposted fork. It had directions to Sunset Point, but there was no sign for Lover''s Point.


    Frowning to himself he took the turn. Ajay had clearly mentioned it was near Sunset Point, maybe this signpost was not correct.


    Lips pressed in a thin line, he continued towards Sunset Point. He knew she would be there. She would fulfill her obligation before finishing off with him for good and never look back.


    The thought for some reason vexed him to no end. He couldn''t work out which part of it was more irksome. That he was a mere obligation, or that she could detach from him so easily, or that she could escape without any consequence. It was the last one, he told himself stubbornly. The other two were ridiculous of course. Consequences, there would be. She would repent her deeds. Princess or not, he would make sure she was punished.


    *****


    By the time he reached Sunset Point, the sky was streaked orange. It was a beautiful place set atop a high cliff jutting over the side of a mountain. Thick green forest covered the hills around and flocks of birds flew overhead dotting the sky with inky patterns.


    Ms. Sharma was already there, cooling off her horse after her frantic ride. She looked in a much better mood. The dazzling smile was back as the twinkle in her eye. He wondered if it was the rosy glow of the sunset or if her cheeks were actually flushed red.


    The reason for her improved mood was also evident. There was a little family of three there to enjoy the sunset. A young couple with a five-year-old boy. They chattered away happily as Ms. Sharma clicked pictures for them. Then the parents sauntered off to the cliff edge to watch the sunset.


    The little boy though was in no rush to follow his parents. He trailed on, chatting with the princess that came riding on the wind. His eyes glimmered with excitement as she let him stroke Aron.


    "Do you want to ride?" She asked as if she was offering chocolate.


    "Yes, yes...," the boy jumped up and down clapping his hands.


    She picked him up and secured him on her horse, then walked around with the reins as the boy bubbled with excitement. His parents smiled at them from afar and clicked more pictures, then turned back to watch the romantic sunset.


    Darsh shook his head. There it was again - the effortless guile, the bewitching smile. No one could escape her charm. The anger emitting her a while ago was now replaced with serene happiness. The little boy watched her with starry eyes. Darsh himself felt dazed.


    Soon the boy wanted more. She pulled his chubby cheeks and sat behind him to take him for a short ride.


    Darsh watched in wonder as they cantered around. The boy squealed with laughter and the girl with him. Her face was alight with happiness. Golden sunlight glimmered in her hair creating a hazy aura. His eyes followed them relentlessly, he didn''t realize it when he walked toward them.


    They stopped laughing the moment he approached. The boy looked at him questioningly, evidently displeased with this new intruder.


    "You have to wait your turn." The little boy scrunched his brow as he explained the rules of the playground. "Wait in the queue until I''m done."


    "I am not in the queue, thank you very much!" Darsh gave him a curt reply and turned to her. "Aren''t you supposed to be my guide? How could you leave me alone in the forest?"


    "Well, you are here now, aren''t you? Well done for that." She answered frostily. "And sunset is that way. So hurry up unless you want to miss it."


    She nudged Aron and they cantered away happily. Darsh turned to the cliff edge for an obligatory view of the sinking sun. The valley below was drenched in a golden glow. The air had turned much cooler, and he could see gleaming streams of white foam leaping from the mountains. It was indeed a beautiful sight, something he would have enjoyed any other time. Any other time, he sighed as his eyes drew back to the rider with the little boy.


    *****


    "Fought with your wife?" He heard a voice and turned to find the boy''s father standing next to him.


    "Umm...no!" Darsh was taken aback. "She''s not my wife."


    "Pity," The man smirked. "Girlfriend, then?"


    He was about to shake his head in negation when a thought struck his mind. The man looked talkative, maybe he would be able to divulge some important information.


    "Yes," he smiled. "A bit of misunderstanding, nothing serious."


    The man raised his eyebrows. "Well, it looks pretty serious to me. She is not even looking at you. I''d be careful if I were you."


    Darsh smiled sheepishly. "Actually... I am in a bit of a pickle. I promised I''d take her to Lover''s Point. I thought it was here somewhere. But I think I was misinformed. I couldn''t find it and now she''s not happy."


    The man nodded in understanding. "Yes, I have heard about it too, but the locals seem very tight-lipped." He lowered his voice conspiratorially. "Maybe it''s because it''s not actually a Lover''s Point. I have heard from my friends who visited here earlier - a few years ago someone committed suicide on that cliff. Some popular son of a local landlord pining for his wife. We tourists call it Lover''s Point, but for the locals, it''s a suicide place."


    Darsh stared not knowing what to say. The man shrugged as his wife called him from a distance.


    "Okay, mate. Need to go now. All the best with your lady love."


    He took his leave and walked away to join his family. The little boy protested, unwilling to let go of the horse and the smiling girl. But his parents wrenched him away.


    The sun had set. They had to start now to reach the fork before dark.


    ***** *****

 9. A Fairy Princess, an Evil Enchantress

    So it wasn''t so much of a Lover''s Point after all, Darsh thought as he trudged after his guide up towards the hilltop. Dusk was thickening around them with the path getting murkier by the minute. Some stars were out and a sickle moon had risen cocooned in its own misty aura.


    It was an inexplicably tranquil evening. Cool and quiet, full of the fragrance of green grass and warm soil. Romantic, a little voice chirped inside him as his gaze pinned on the shapely back of his companion.


    She had gone quiet again after seeing off the little family at the fork. Her smile had vanished and was replaced by a wistful expression. He wondered if she was remembering her father. Because it was her father who had committed suicide at Lover''s Point. Balwant Rai Sharma was the only landlord around here. And Susheel Sharma was his only dead son. Darsh now could somewhat understand her angry reaction to Lover''s Point. But he knew there was much more to that enigmatic place. There was much more she was still hiding.


    "We need to reach the temple before the evening prayers."


    That was all she''d managed to say in her haughty discomfort. And nodding to her was all he had managed in his acute embarrassment. He wished he could talk to her. That he had created some goodwill with her that would''ve allowed him some leeway. There was so much about her outside of that small folder, he was realizing it now. Knowledge was his weapon and without it, he felt woefully underprepared.


    But it was too late, he had lost that opportunity. He had started on the wrong footing with his taunts and snide remarks. She won''t welcome any probing questions now and even if he dared, he wasn''t likely to get any straight answers. Friendship, he had offered, but not in good faith. And she seemed to have realized it, as his offer was declined. Not that he regretted it, he told himself firmly. But pretending to be genuine might have made his job easier.


    They trudged on through the forest to the music of chirping night insects and the gurgling of some distant streams. Fireflies twinkled in and out through the dense bushes casting a magical haze on the surrounding.


    His eyes stayed on her, scrutinizing her as had been his favorite hobby these past few days. Every graceful move, every slight quirk, he drank in thirstily. The thick rope of her braid swayed like a snake taunting him every second. She seemed to be emitting a faint glow in her wake, as he followed her dreamily. It was like a fairytale forest with a fairy princess guiding him along. Mythical, alluring, yet distant, out of reach.


    The evening had stirred him inexplicably. The golden image of her laughing with the little boy wouldn''t leave him alone. Nor did the man''s words.


    Wife? Girlfriend? he''d asked. What was she to him?


    Nothing really. She was no one to him. Nor did he want her to be, he scoffed in annoyance.


    Nor is she likely to be, that irritating little voice poked again. But she would someday be someone else''s beloved, someone else''s wife. She would be a mother to someone else''s child.


    Now that was impossible, he thought clenching his fists. He''d make sure that never happened. Not because he wanted her for himself, oh no. But because she didn''t deserve it. She won''t be allowed anything that Vicki was denied. Period.


    His thoughts involuntarily turned to his brother who was currently lying unconscious in a hospital bed surrounded by innumerable machines. Somehow he was still alive, but just barely.


    Darsh still remembered the day years ago when he''d seen Vicki for the first time. They had never met before owing to his Aunt''s jet-setting lifestyle. A little boy of five, he was too quiet, too subdued. He had instantly felt protective towards him. On his part, Vicki had instantly warmed to him, latching onto him like a father figure. His Aunt had looked visibly relieved, probably wondering why she hadn''t thought of this idea before. She lived her life in a fast lane from one vacation to another, one boyfriend to the next. There was no time or place for a child. That too an unwanted child, an accidental birth to boot that she was unable to prevent. Her husband had never bothered either. His wife had many admirers. Any of them could have sired Vicki. She herself probably didn''t know, and neither did she care.


    It was a wretched existence, already full of misery. He didn''t need this additional torture. In the name of God, he didn''t need any more suffering on account of another despicable woman.


    Darsh looked at the woman in front of him, the fairy princess guiding him to his destination. More like an evil enchantress luring him to her lair. She would soon find an opportunity to sink her teeth into him. He was eager for that time when she''d reveal her true colors.


    His lips pursed as he looked ahead. They had crossed the forest and reached the hilltop. A majestic old temple carved out of black rock loomed ahead of them. White flowers bloomed around filling the air with a heady scent. White was Lord Shiva''s favorite color, he remembered his Ma telling him once.


    He also knew the prasad(offering) here sometimes involved mild cannabis mixed in the food. A small pinch of potent cannabis was enough, he was told, to blunt anyone''s senses and loosen their tongue. It helped relax, made a person giddy with happiness. He was going to use it tonight. He didn''t care if his quarry was happy or not. But he needed to get her talking.


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    His options were limited. Confrontations, he must avoid. But confess she must. She had to own her actions. Hiding them conveniently, denying them outright helped her assuage her conscience and keep to business as usual. But that was unfair. That had to stop.


    There were only so many ways he could do it, drugging her was the safest of them. And he was a respectable man. He was not going to take advantage of her if there was even such a thing with her. If push comes to shove he could always blame it on the offering.


    His hand went to the left pocket of his jeans where a small packet lay tucked in safely waiting to be used at the right time. And the right time was approaching fast, he couldn''t believe his luck it was already here.


    She was vulnerable at the moment. She was sad at the memory of her dead father. These hills probably held a part of her painful past. But that didn''t absolve her of her sin. She had his sympathy but not his forgiveness. For that, she''d need to do her penance. Long and harsh, just like his brother.


    *****


    Brass bells chimed in a soft breeze as they alighted. Aditi removed her shoes and dipped her feet in a nearby stream before entering the temple. Her companion followed her involuntarily, quietly mimicking her actions. He was not bad to have around, she conceded, as long as he kept his mouth shut and didn''t show his scowling face.


    They had missed the evening prayers. A bright lamp burned in the Lord''s inner sanctum as an old priest stood in the front with folded hands. She raised an arm to ring a brass bell, then folded her hands to the Lord. The priest turned at the sound. In an instant, she noticed his gaunt face, his pearly eyes. He had aged in past twelve years. Much more than he ought to have.


    Straining his milky eyes he gazed at her, trying to place her. There was a flicker of doubt on his weathered face before a bright smile of recognition ignited it.


    "Aditi Bitia...I never thought I would see you again! It''s been twelve years!" he exclaimed as he hobbled to them. She bent down to touch his feet and he put his shaking hand on her head. "Bless you, my child. May the Lord grant you happiness and long life."


    Aditi stiffened. Happiness and long life? Who was he kidding? He used to bless her parents in a similar way. But it seemed his pleas fell on deaf ears. The Lord didn''t care. And fate was its own master, she had learned it the hard way.


    She shook her head to get rid of the gloomy thoughts and schooled her expression back to smile pleasantly. "How are you, Baba? You don''t look well and your eyes are worse. When was the last time you had an eye test?"


    "I am fine, Bitia," he answered in a heavy voice. "Just waiting for the Lord to call me to him. It should have been me that day. It should have been me rather than Meera Bitia." His voice shook as his rheumy eyes filled with tears.


    Aditi patted his hand. "Please don''t blame yourself, Baba. It was not your fault. No one could have done anything anyway."


    "But I couldn''t help her. She died in front of us and I couldn''t..." the priest choked uneasily.


    Aditi''s face paled. Yes, she''d died in front of them. And none of them had been able to help. Aditi, her father, or the priest. All they had done was watch helplessly as her mother writhed in pain. It was unbearable. The horror, the pain of the sufferer. The acute guilt and shame of the onlookers. Each of them had carried the burden ever since. And each of them had suffered the consequences. Her eyes swept around the temple. Some walls were chipped, and the floor was broken. Her Dadaji had neglected to fund the repairs lately. Clearly, the Lord too had to suffer consequences, just as the mere mortals.


    She saw her companion fidgeting and gathered her thoughts. Although he enjoyed free entertainment, it didn''t have to be about her parents'' tragic deaths.


    "Can I have some laddus?" he brazenly asked, breaking their emotional reunion. "I''m quite hungry. I hope there is decent food to eat here?"


    The priest looked slightly taken aback, noticing him for the first time. Then rushed hastily to hand him a motichur laddu. "It''s the Lord''s offering." he smiled a toothless smile. "And don''t worry about food Sahib. It won''t be a feast, but I promise you won''t go hungry."


    Her companion gobbled up the laddu, then spread his hand for more. The priest gave him the last two, then turned back to her with an eager smile. "Will you cook with me tonight, Bitia? Like you used to with Chote Malik?"


    "Of course, Baba," Aditi''s face lit with the memory. "We''ll cook together."


    *****


    Darsh sat cross-legged in the tiny kitchen listening to the old priest as he recounted the number of times his Chote Malik had visited this place. He used to visit with Bade Malik as a youngster. Then he visited with his friends. In later years, he often brought his family. First his young wife, then his young daughter. Each time they visited, the man cooked for his wife a simple fare of daal-chawal. In later years his daughter too joined in, learning from her father the art of cooking on a kerosene stove.


    They had gotten this temple repaired and erected a small Sarai with a couple of rooms and a small kitchen. It had helped the priest with accommodation and the extra room could be used by anyone who wanted to stay overnight. That was the room Darsh was allotted for tonight, the priest informed him proudly. Darsh wondered if it was his age, or he actually didn''t realize they needed two rooms. Or it could be that the priest didn''t care what the princess did, with whom she did. Now that was absolutely logical possibility, Darsh had to agree.


    He was still processing the information he''d gathered on their arrival. Her mother had also died in some tragic circumstances. Well, that was life, he sighed shrugging his shoulders. Again, she had his sympathy, and that was all.


    The priest droned on completely forgetting they were supposed to cook together. The girl didn''t seem to mind as she''d already taken charge. They sat chatting in the warm glow of an oil lamp as she prepared the food with the same ease that she handled her horse. With absolute control, perfect precision. Like a doctor performing an intricate surgery. There was no extraneous movement, no spillage, and no wastage. He had to give she had chosen a perfect profession and a perfect hobby, whichever of the two it was.


    The priest finally went quiet when the food was served. Darsh agreed it was not a feast. Yet he ate heartily. Towards the end, he took out a laddu spiked with his cannabis and offered it to her.


    "Here. I can''t eat so much sweet. And I reckon you didn''t get any prasad."


    She thanked him graciously and accepted it. It would take some time for the drug to take effect. But he was in no rush.


    ***** *****

 10. A Dip in the Moonlit Pool

    It was a clear night. Aditi sat on the temple steps looking in the distance. The valley below was submerged in inky darkness despite the silvery moonlight. The temple was East facing and sitting on the cold stone steps she could see thousands of twinkling stars forming familiar shapes in the night sky. Constellations, they were called, her father had explained when she was seven. There was Orion, the Hunter with its bright stars lined to make a triangle shape. Up above was Pegasus with Enis shining at its head. There were more, her father had shown them all years ago.


    Sitting on these steps, drinking warm milk with her head in her mother''s lap, she would listen to his deep baritone. For hours he would talk about the stars and she would listen intently. Sometimes she would fall asleep here listening to her mother''s sweet voice as she sang some songs of the old. The next morning she would wake up in the Sarai room snugly tucked in her mother''s fleece blanket.


    Those were the days, she smiled dreamily looking at the crescent moon. The days she knew would never return.


    Her eyes drew to the path that snaked from the side of the temple to the hill behind. There was a maze in there, a maze of naturally formed caves and streams intermingling together under the hood of that hill.


    One of those caves had history, her mother''s last memory etched in its stone walls forever. Aditi wondered if it was time now to revisit the place. Not to relive that dreadful moment of her mother''s death, but those thousands of happy ones before it. Tonight it seemed her mind was finally ready to let go of the pain. It could be the drug in the laddu, she knew the prasad contained mild cannabis. When she was little her mother only allowed her a small bite. Tonight she''d eaten a whole laddu for the first time, maybe this giddy feeling was a result of it.


    She didn''t mind. It had somehow brought her closer to her parents. Her eyes went to the path to the caves again. It felt as if she was ready. After so many years of staying away from this place, tonight she felt she was finally ready.


    Brain whirring in anticipation, she got up unsteadily and took a step down. Her feet faltered in the haze making her almost stumble when a strong arm steadied her.


    "Careful." A deep voice said from her side. She strained her eyes trying to make out who it was. It sounded like her father. She tried to focus her eyes, the tall figure in the dark felt like her father.


    Could it be him? Her addled brain tried to think straight but failed. It could be him, maybe he was missing her too. Her heart leaped with joy.


    "Dad! You came!" A wide smile broke her face as she hugged him tightly. It had been years. Years since she felt someone she loved this close.


    He staggered back as his hands raised up to support her. They stayed on her back momentarily before falling limp to his sides.


    She reveled in her joy mindless of her reality. He was here! In front of her, in her arms. As solid and warm as ever!!


    She stepped back and raised on her tiptoes to kiss his cheek. Her lips grazed at his stubble, but she didn''t mind it one bit. Her fingers traced his face, his shoulders, making sure he was really there. And he was. He really was.


    Which meant her mother could be here too, she jolted with another realization.


    "Is Mum here? Is she in the cave?" She asked him wildly, eyes glinting in the moonlight.


    He seemed lost for words, then just shook his head. If there was a hint of hesitation in that gesture, it was completely lost on her. Taking his silence as affirmation, she beamed with joy and turned towards the caves.


    The distance was not much but as the path curved around the hill peak, the temple disappeared. Now there were only the dark trees lining the path with branches swaying in a light fragrant breeze. A murmur of water from the caves pulled her, her mother was calling her for ages.


    Stepping into the cave entrance she walked ahead as he followed her wordlessly. Fireflies fluttered around them, lighting the path. Moonlight streamed through the open roof where the caves opened to the skies above. Pools of dark water littered the floor, some big, some small, some deep, and some shallow. Up ahead was her favorite pool, one where her father had taught her to swim. She came to it and stopped. It was the same as before - clear, knee-deep with glossy pebbles lining its floor.


    "Come on in, princess...," her father called from the other end. He was already in there, smiling widely, splashing the water, his raucous laugh ricocheting off the walls.


    Aditi looked at him in wonder, her eyes squinting through a hazy mist. He was the same, just as she remembered him from years ago. Next to him was her mother, smiling serenely from her perch in the pool. Aditi''s heart skipped a beat. There she was, as beautiful as ever, waiting for her!


    Aditi stepped forward eagerly to cross the pool, but as usual, her mother chided her.


    "Take your shoes off, Aditi. Don''t get them wet." her mother reminded gently. She kicked off her shoes and moved ahead. Behind her, someone shot forward, probably to pull her back but she was too quick. She giggled helplessly. No one could catch her, she was too fast.


    She stepped into the pool and the cold water hit her barefoot like an ice blast. Squealing in delight she rushed forward. She had to get to her parents. They were waiting for her on the other side.


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    "Be careful, you''ll slip and fall!" A warning voice sounded from behind making her frown. Was he ahead or behind? She couldn''t make out. A silly giggle escaped her mouth - it was just like her father to tease her with his tricks.


    "You''ll catch me if I fall, Dad," she replied breezily walking on the slippery floor of the pool. The water came up to her mid-calves wetting her trousers, but she carried on heedless. It had been ages since she felt so exhilarated. Her parents were in front of her, her Dad sitting on his favorite rock at the deep end of the pool and her mother on the side watching them with a blooming smile.


    They had done this so many times before. It was just as she remembered.


    In her haste, her foot slipped on something slippery. She shrieked in delight as she tumbled forward, and cold water splashed all over the place. Her father gave another booming laugh as her mother covered her face to save it from splashes. Behind her, she heard an agitated whimper and laughed. Her father was still playing his antics.


    "Dad! You didn''t catch me this time!" She said in mock anger and swam to her Dad. He smiled and shook his head.


    "You don''t need me to save you, princess," he said lovingly. "You are a grown-up girl now."


    She inched next to him and gazed at his face. It was full of adoration, and pride. Her mother leaned forward over to caress her face. Aditi closed her eyes. This was what she needed - this touch, this scent, these two people that none could replace.


    Her eyes glistened in the moonlight, her breath getting uneven. They were not really here. It was just her imagination, wasn''t it? Or they would have come to help her that day. She had called them. She had called for anyone who''d listen. She needed someone desperately. But no one had come.


    "Where were you that day?" She asked accusingly. "I called for you, I needed you."


    "What day, princess?" Her father''s voice was wary.


    "The day he...they..." She faltered.


    "Yes, princess?"


    "Don''t call me that, Dad. You know Mohit keeps teasing me and Vivaan too!" She frowned in agitation.


    "Ok...Aditi." The words came out as if they were uttered for the first time. She squinted her eyes unsurely at her father''s face, but he looked his usual self.


    "So what happened that day Aditi?" He asked again, this time in a much softer tone.


    She leaned back on the rock turning her face to the moon above. The roof opening was quite wide here, she could see the stars as they reflected themselves in the dark pool.


    "What happened, Aditi? What happened that day?" her father probed again.


    She chewed her lips. Details. He needed details. But she couldn''t recall much. All she remembered was a dark night and a dark shape. Something had pierced her thigh, paralyzing her completely. There was excruciating pain and then there was nothing. She had lost her senses.


    "I went to see Sam. He was...hurt." She tried to recall whatever she could. It hadn''t been that long, yet her brain seemed muddled. There were gaps in the memory, big gaping holes when she could remember nothing. And then she had tried hard to forget the rest.


    "Sam was already hurt?" He seemed incredulous.


    Already? She frowned in confusion. "Yes, Dad." She nodded her head vigorously. "Vicki called me. Sam was injured. I went to see him...but then..."


    Her head felt heavy. The details seemed to elude her. Something heavy pushed her down or was it pushing the memory down she didn''t know. She couldn''t remember anything. It was a blur of pain and fear. The two emotions she''d faced for the first time that night, in their full force. Nothing else mattered afterward.


    "What happened then, Aditi?" The voice had a slight edge now. Her father was getting impatient. Was it time for him to go? She panicked.


    "Then...it went dark..." She strained hard, but nothing would come out of that dark whirlpool. She whimpered in disappointment. Nothing could fill those gaps. In the later days, her conscious mind had filled in the blanks perfectly. The truth of that night was written all over her body. But she had hardened herself to forget it. Such things were not supposed to happen. That night had never happened. It was hard initially to obliterate it from memory, but soon it started working. She couldn''t show it in front of her family, so she had to pretend anyway. Then it became a habit, disregarding her wound as a mere graze of a broken bush when she was riding Aron. Everyone had believed her. Well everyone except maybe Kanta Chachi. But prudent as she was, she had kept mum. Her Dadaji had a weak heart, and Aditi was his pride. It was wise to forget such things, never acknowledge they ever happened.


    But tonight, in front of her parents, the wounds reopened. Her drug-addled brain lost all control. Her thigh throbbed senseless, her heart even worse.


    "It hurt, Dad. I couldn''t breathe..." Her voice sank into a weak sob. "It hurt. I called for you. You didn''t come. No one came."


    She sank low, her tears finally making their way out. Her mother''s arms opened wide to hug her close. The pool water came to her neck, then touched her cheeks. It was so soothing, like her mother''s embrace.


    Aditi let go and closed her eyes. Her brain shut off as her body went under, drifting into painless oblivion. Slowly, silently, she sank deeper. The cave became silent. No one spoke.


    Then there was a heavy splash as someone stepped into the pool.


    *****


    Sam was already injured. Vicki had called her for Sam.


    Darsh''s brain stored the details as he waded through the pool towards her. He himself felt muddled now, nothing whatsoever made sense. Was Sam actually injured or was he faking? Did Vicki call her on the pretext of Sam to confront her? But that sounded a calculated move, a well-planned one. Ajay had said Vicki confronted her in a fit of anger and the other two boys had corroborated the story. But her version was different. It didn''t fit with the rest.


    She had called for help, not in anger or humiliation, but probably in pain and fear. There could only be one reason, and looking at the state she was in, it was the only possible reason. But it couldn''t be possible. It went against everything he knew, or rather everything he was told about that night. Moreover, his brother would never stoop to this low. He could never degrade a woman like this. Or could he? Darsh wasn''t sure anymore.


    Bending down he searched for her in the dark water. He felt a cold arm and pulled it up. She came up like a lifeless doll, hair plastered to her face, yet her face utterly sweet and calm. He knew this time the expression was genuine. For the first time, he knew she wasn''t faking.


    Hauling her up on his shoulder he waded out of the water, then let her down on the ground. It didn''t look like she''d ingested much water, but he had to make sure. Turning her over he pressed over her back, then turning her back, he applied pressure to her stomach. She spluttered some water, yet her eyes remained closed.


    It was the cannabis, he thought shaking his head. He had probably overdosed her. The drug had affected her badly, making her hallucinate about her dead parents.


    He remembered her hug, her bright smile. Her face was lit with a thousand stars in that moonlight. He knew it would stay with him forever, that ghost of a smile with her warm hug and the gentle, haunting kiss.


    Picking her up he carried her out of the cave. This was getting messy, and he was getting tangled.


    ***** *****

 11. The Conscientious Sinner

    It was just before midnight when Darsh knocked on the priest''s door. The chill in the air had increased. Tiny goosebumps covered his body as water dripped from his clothes, courtesy of Ms. Sharma. His trousers were wet by wading in that pool, and then she had dripped all over him when he carried her back. As of now, she was lying peacefully on the floor of his room covered with a blanket that was already sodden wet.


    His plan had worked as expected. It had also delivered a result. It was just a totally unexpected result, one that he hadn''t imagined in his wildest dreams. His luck had been throwing him curveballs ever since he landed in Palampur. And tonight as well, it had caught him by surprise. He didn''t know what to think. He didn''t know how to react.


    Shaking his head, he knocked again impatiently. He heard a shuffle of feet on the floor. The door opened a tiny fraction and the priest peeked out squinting his eyes groggily.


    "It''s me." Darsh raised his lantern so the priest could see his face. "I need your help. Come to my room."


    Turning back he returned to his room as the priest followed him in confusion. His jaw dropped to the floor the moment he laid his eyes on her.


    "Aditi Bitia! What happened to her? Is she dead?" The priest exclaimed in panic, his heart nearly jumping into his mouth. It seemed to him the whole of Chote Malik''s family had decided to die around his temple. Next he knew, Bade Malik will raze this darned temple to the ground and him with it.


    "She is alive," Darsh replied with an amused expression. "I think she got affected by the cannabis in the offering. I found her lying unconscious in one of the caves." He gave the bare minimum facts watching the priest''s wizened face. He needed an alibi to vouch for his good behavior in case it was needed later, someone to attest to his good intentions. It might come in handy for some other purpose as well, but he didn''t want to think that far ahead just yet.


    "Is there any woman around here who could help change Aditi''s clothes? She fell in a pool and we can''t leave her in wet clothes." He carefully delivered the lines he''d rutted on the way back from the caves. Women, there were none; of that he was sure. And he wasn''t going to let any man near her, priest or not. It would have to be him. He just had to be careful how he went about it.


    The priest gulped uneasily, then shook his head. "No Sahib. There are no women around. There are some tribals that live in these jungles. But it''s impossible to contact them at this hour."


    Darsh nodded his head. This was just as he expected. "So I think you would have to change her clothes." He said matter of factly and started rummaging through her backpack to find a clean set to change into. From the corner of his eyes, he saw the priest fidgeting nervously. His lips twitched. It was unlikely the priest would take his offer, being the pious man that he was. Yet he had to offer even just for appearance''s sake.


    "I am sorry, Sahib." the priest stuttered, shuffling to the door. "You are with her. You do it, Sahib. I''ll see if I can get some more blankets and dry clothes."


    He was out of the door in a blink of an eye. Darsh smiled in derision and turned to her. Lifting her gently off the floor he placed her on the bed and gazed at her beautiful face. Devoid of its dazzling smile, stripped off any guile that he might accuse her of, he had to agree it looked achingly innocent. Her doe eyes, once shut, showed dark shadows around them. Her pink lips, up this close, looked cracked with a constant fake smile.


    He always knew it was a charade. He always knew she was hiding something. He just hadn''t considered this possibility. He hadn''t imagined she could be the victim.


    He wished he could talk to the boys again. His satphone was long since dead and there was no other communication channel in this place. It''d have to wait until he was back at the cottage.


    But they will never agree, the little voice inside his head said quietly. Nobody ever agreed to such a ghastly deed. Neither would she, once she was back to her senses. He had but one option. And he had to take it while she was still unconscious.


    His eyes traveled the length of her body; pristine, cold, perfectly still like a marble statue. Her wet clothes clung to her body revealing every exquisite curve. Sighing heavily he set about his task. This certainly was not a job for a pious priest. This was a job for a sinner like him.


    *****


    Aditi stirred from her slumber to the chirping sounds of birds and chiming of temple bells. It was early morning. The air was infused with the fragrance of fresh flowers and incense sticks. She was snug and warm, huddled inside a fluffy blanket in the soft bed of the Sarai. Probably her Ma had tucked her in last night. The image of her parents sitting in the moonlit pool, smiling at her lovingly still hovered in her mind. They had come for her at last, she could still feel their gentle touch on her skin.


    Smiling serenely, she pushed the blanket and swung her legs to the floor. A sharp pain shot from her thigh and a whimper escaped her mouth.


    "Aditi Bitia! Are you alright?" the priest''s worried voice sounded from the doorway. She turned her head to see him tottering in eagerly, carrying a small tray of breakfast in his hands. He was closely followed by the stranger, carrying her medical kit, looking as grim as ever.


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    Dropping the kit by the door he stuffed his hands in his pockets and stood by the doorway, effectively blocking all the sunlight out. She ignored him and smiled brightly at the priest.


    "I am fine Baba. Nothing to worry about." She again made a valiant effort and managed to stand up without wincing, but the priest didn''t look convinced.


    "You don''t look well." He came closer and set the tray on the bed to scan her carefully. His wrinkled hand touched her forehead, then her cheek, before patting her shoulder lightly. "We were so worried last night. You were cold and unconscious when Sahib carried you here."


    Aditi bunched her brows. He carried her here?


    "Why...what happened last night?"


    "He found you lying in a pool. God bless Sahib, he was there to help you. Or I don''t know how I would have faced Bade Malik..." His voice caught as he gulped uneasily.


    Aditi stared. He was there in the cave! Did he hear her talking to her parents? What did she say? What did he hear? Doubts clamored her half-numb brain. Unknown dread swamped her as she slumped back on the bed. Her stomach roiled, the leftover water from last night threatening to spurt out.


    The priest patted her head lightly and shook his head. "Eat up, Bitia. Then go home safely. Bade Malik must be worried."


    Shooting a wary glance at the stranger the priest hobbled away. Aditi waited for him to go out of earshot before turning to the stranger. He''d moved to the window and was now leaning against it, his dark eyes pinned on her intently. There were questions in those eyes; uncomfortable, unanswerable ones. It was best to forestall them, divert him somehow.


    "Thanks for your help." She tried to smile. "I''m sorry about last night. I see I haven''t been a very good guide. Your holiday is ruined. I''ll find you another guide..."


    "Don''t worry about my holiday, Ms. Sharma. What''s done is done." He replied curtly. "Let''s talk about last night. Who are..."


    "I said I am sorry. "She interrupted hastily. "I''ll arrange another guide for you. You can..."


    He raised a large hand, silencing her with a single gesture. "Who are Vicki and Sam? You spoke about them last night. You said you called for help, but no one came. What happened?"


    Her face went white. She seemed to have blurted a lot in her stupor last night. It had obviously piqued his interest. She needed to avoid it. She needed to escape. Bending her head she licked her parched lips, then looked up to face him again. "I don''t know what you are talking about. I don''t remember anything. And I think I have dawdled here long enough. I need to get going."


    "You are not going anywhere until you answer me, Ms. Sharma." He said nonchalantly. "And I saved your life. Twice. I think you owe me an explanation."


    "I owe you nothing." She snapped in irritation. "Thanks again for helping me, but you are just a tourist. I''ll find you a new guide and you can be on your way."


    "How did you get that wound?" he continued as if she had not spoken.


    Her face paled. He knew about the wound. Which meant...he had seen it? Her chest suddenly felt laden. "How do you..?"


    "I saw it last night when I changed your clothes," he answered with utter calm. "It is open. The sutures have come off."


    Aditi choked. Invisible hands gripped her neck, tightening around her windpipe, constricting it precariously. She struggled to breathe, her mouth involuntarily opening to suck much-needed air. Here she was again, making the same stupid mistake, being as gullible as ever. When was she going to learn not to trust strangers? Hadn''t she learned her lesson? Hadn''t she been punished enough? Tears sprung to her eyes as she gasped for air. He made an involuntary move forward to help, but she shrank further away.


    "How dare you! You have no right..! her voice was bizarrely strangled.


    "The priest asked me. You can check with him." He said, watching her carefully. "And now back to my question, how did you get that wound?"


    Aditi closed her eyes. She had to calm herself down. Nothing had happened. He wouldn''t be here if anything happened. He was here, and the priest was there too. Which meant she was safe. She braced herself and tried to control her panic. "It''s nothing serious. Just a graze from a bush while riding one morning,"


    "It''s not a graze from a bush, Ms. Sharma," he was getting angry. "It looks more like a stab from a broken glass bottle."


    Broken glass bottle? Was that what it was? She couldn''t remember. It was so dark that night, so very dark and scary.


    It was dark when she finally managed to drag herself on Aron and ride home. It was still dark when she had finally climbed up the vines to her bedroom. She had lain in her bathtub half-dead in darkness as cold water poured down her body. Later she had sat on the bathroom floor sewing the wound shut, wondering if anyone had heard her racket. She had barely glanced at the wound. She barely had any strength to look at herself in the mirror.


    Her shaking fingers clutched the side of the bed as her legs clamped shut. She sat on the bed, ramrod straight, trying to hold on, trying to get a grip. Whatever it was, it was a thing of the past. A past she had no wish to remember. It had to stay buried for the sake of her Dadaji and her family. This stranger had no right to dig it out.


    *****


    Darsh watched as she sat on that bed trembling like a leaf. She was close to losing it, he could see it clearly. Her face looked deathly pale, he had successfully managed to extinguish her serene morning smile. Her skin was blotchy red and her eyes were filled with dread.


    "You are mistaken. It''s not from a glass bottle." She laughed shakily, evidently struggling to control herself. "It was a bush. A broken branch. And anyway, whatever it was, it''s none of your business. I have to get going now..."


    "Stop lying Ms. Sharma and sit down. And you know it''s not from a broken bush." His face darkened with anger as he took a step closer. Why was she hiding it? He needed to know. Everything about that night was his business. Everything about her was his business. "I have seen such wounds before. It''s from a glass bottle. Broken and jagged. It''s..."


    He suddenly stopped. She had stood up from her perch and was now walking to him with a zombie-like gait. Her body shook precariously, yet her face looked utterly calm.


    "It was not a bottle." she halted inches away, eyes fixated on him. "And if I say it was a branch, then it was a branch."


    He stared at her flabbergasted. Here it was again. Her arrogant declaration, blatant denial. It dawned on him it was just a survival tactic. She was not hiding her guilt. She was hiding her shame.


    His hands shot forward to grab her shoulders. "You can''t hide it, Aditi! You have to tell me. It''s important! I need to know. I need to..."


    He couldn''t finish his sentence. Someone shot forward from the entrance and wrenched her back with full force. Another person stepped in front of him and a solid punch landed on his jaw, making him cry out in pain, and leaving him momentarily blind.


    ***** *****

 12. Just a Graze From a Broken Bush

    "HOW. DARE. YOU. TOUCH. HER!"


    Vivaan punctuated each word with a heavy blow as the man stumbled back howling in pain. Stepping forward he pushed the flailing man back to the wall to land a few more, some in his gut, some on that impudent face. He liked this. He was itching for a good fight for so long!


    Darsh bent forward clutching his tummy, then raised an arm to block the next blow. Although well-built and much stronger than his attacker, he had been caught by surprise. And then he was alone, while his attacker had a backup. A man was currently standing next to Aditi, holding her firmly in place, with one hand wrapped around her arm. Darsh gritted his teeth as she struggled to break free. "Let her go!" he thundered, blocking the next blow, but the man only tightened his grip.


    "How dare you!" Vivaan continued angrily while still hitting haphazardly. His courage was bolstered by the fact that his victim was merely blocking his blows and showed no intention of retaliating in kind.


    "Vivaan, stop! What are you doing? Leave him alone!" Aditi screamed in horror, but her pleas only served to aggravate him further. "Stop hitting him! He hasn''t done anything."


    "How dare he touch you, Aditi! How dare he lay his filthy hands on you! He needs to be taught a lesson!" Vivaan snarled and raised an arm to land another blow, but this time someone caught it from behind.


    "Enough, Vivaan!" Mohit''s calm voice sounded next to him. "Leave the man. You have already drawn enough blood."


    Vivaan stepped back panting to take a look at his handiwork. There was a cut on that chiseled jawline. Thick disheveled hair tumbled forward on the high forehead hiding a concussion on the handsome face. Vivaan hated it almost instantly. Even after such beating, the man looked only mildly perturbed. He should have done a better job. A broken nose and a black eye would have suited the situation much better.


    Darsh straightened himself to his full height to take a good look at his attacker. Vivaan Raisingh, grandson of Dalpat Raisingh, another man of reckoning in these parts; his brain instantly regurgitated the details from the folder he''d committed to his memory long back. This was the man she''d mumbled about last night. This was the man who was her friend since childhood.


    Not just any friend, his shrewd brain told him as he observed him with narrowed eyes. Tall and willowy with a carelessly handsome face, Vivaan Raisingh reeked of excess money. The likes of him took everything for granted, wealth and women being the least of it. And the way he was charged up, she was definitely high up on the list. A childhood sweetheart? A lover...a fianc¨¦e? Who was she to him? With each possibility his fists curled tighter, and his face grew harder.


    "I would be careful if I were you, Mr. Raisingh." His voice came dangerously low. "I wouldn''t want to risk those delicate features." Taking a menacing step forward he grabbed his collar and pulled him up when he felt a gentle hand on his arm.


    "Please...don''t harm him." A small voice pleaded from his side. Aditi had finally made her way past Mohit and was now standing next to him with tired eyes. She looked worn, he suddenly realized she hadn''t eaten anything after his spiked laddu. His fingers instantly loosened, and Vivaan tumbled backward clutching his neck in relief.


    "Who is he?" Vivaan snarled, pulling her back. "What is he doing here Aditi?"


    Aditi chewed her lips. Who he was didn''t matter to her, not anymore. It was better he stayed a stranger. But she couldn''t give that answer to Vivaan. She hadn''t expected him to accompany Mohit here when she''d called yesterday. And now that he was here, having seen what he had, he obviously needed answers. "He...I...," she stuttered helplessly and saw Vivaan''s eyes narrow. "He''s a fr..."


    "I am just a tourist," Darsh assured with mock politeness. "I helped Aditi two days ago when her horse bolted on the way to Badari. So she very kindly offered to be my guide and show me around."


    Two days...translated to two nights as of this morning. Vivaan visibly blanched, having worked out the simple calculation. Darsh smirked with satisfaction. Possessiveness was a weakness of his kind, Darsh knew it from experience. To see someone encroach on one''s territory, to touch something they owned was an affront beyond imagination. Unfortunately for Vivaan, he hadn''t marked his territory yet. There was no ring on her finger and her title was still unchanged. The only thing that remained to confirm was if she returned his feelings. Darsh threw a searching glance at Aditi, but all he could see was a strained expression.


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    "Di won''t be your guide anymore," Mohit stepped forward to announce calmly. "Good thing she called me up last evening. I was able to arrange another guide for you. He is waiting outside."


    It was now Vivaan''s turn to smirk as Darsh''s face fell. She''d called home last evening. How? Probably that tourist family at the sunset point had a satphone. She''d used it to call her brother to get a new guide. And here he was, waiting to catch her red-handed, thinking she was interested in him. Well, at least that doubt was cleared. What more proof did he need? His anger shot through the roof as he gave her a withering glare. But she was blissfully oblivious, having already turned to collect her stuff.


    "Thanks, Mohit," she tottered around collecting her backpack and medical kit. "Good you found a guide, I couldn''t find anyone in Badari." Gathering her stuff, she came back to stand next to her brother, then turned to look at him. Her eyes flickered to his cut, then to the concussion on his forehead. Sighing slightly, she opened her kit and handed him a bandage and some cream. "I am out of painkillers, but you can get them when you are next in Palampur. Thanks for all your help again. I hope you have a pleasant rest of the holiday."


    They were about to exit when Darsh decided to deal with the parting shot. To hell with propriety, to hell with decency. It wasn''t so easy to get rid of him, he wasn''t going to let her off so easily. "You are forgetting your breakfast, Aditi. You need to eat, or that wound won''t heal properly."


    She whirled around in panic.


    "Wound? What wound?" Mohit turned back in an instant with a worried look. "Di, are you hurt?"


    "It''s nothing...just a graze from a broken bush." she tried to gloss over but Mohit was already giving her an appraising look.


    "She''s got a wound on her left thigh," Darsh supplied helpfully, his face a picture of genuine concern. "It looked quite bad last night; the sutures have come off. Maybe you should treat it first, Aditi, before riding back home. You couldn''t even stand up straight this morning."


    There was silence as both the men digested this information, the implication hitting them hard. The brother''s eyes flickered between them, then lowered in shame. Her so-called friend looked positively deranged. Aditi visibly trembled, looking like a deer caught in a vicious trap. He felt ashamed for throwing her under the bus. But it seemed right at the moment, just to see the expression on Vivaan Raisingh''s arrogant face. And then there was no harm putting their relationship through a little test, if they were in a relationship, he thought drily.


    Stretching his arms he gave a lazy yawn, then sauntered out in the glorious morning sun. His job here was nearly done. He had gotten her version of the story and verified it as well. The only thing now remained was to check if his brother was actually responsible. That would prove a tricky task, but he was fairly certain he could achieve it easily.


    *****


    Aditi stood under the warm shower as water ran down her pale skin. It was nearly past noon; they had arrived home some time ago. It was an uneventful journey; both Mohit and Vivaan had stayed quiet, each probably wishing the other man wasn''t there so each could get his answers. But thankfully for her, their silence allowed her to rush home quickly avoiding any uncomfortable queries.


    Not for long though, she sighed turning off the shower. Questions, there will be. And answers, she must prepare, just like any other exam. The details of the night still eluded her, staying somewhere in her subconscious, probably waiting to spring on her at the right time. The stranger had done his best to unearth them, but the memory had refused to surface. She was thankful for it. It was better that way. She had to live her life after all. And there was only so much a person could take.


    Stepping out of the bath, she pulled her towel to pat herself dry. The floor-length Egyptian mirror on the wall opposite reflected her naked body from head to toe. She knew it was a glorious sight, steaming off the edges, gleaming with an unearthly glow. Once she had admired it, was vain enough to take pride in her reflection. Now she knew better. It was but a lie. A mere mirage of perfection.


    Her eyes stayed off resolutely as she rubbed her skin till it felt raw. The rough towel grazed her thigh reminding her of another unpleasant task. Wrapping herself in her bathrobe, she sat on the floor with her medical kit. She had to finish it off quickly and quietly, behind closed doors. Just like that night. Just like every other time she had stitched that wound shut.


    Bracing herself she set about the task. Her fingers worked meticulously, in precise motions, practice made them perfect. In and out, the thread went, joining the frayed skin back, leaving an angry red scar, yet together, whole again. Aditi smiled in relief. This was so easy, she could do it again. Again and again, forever.


    ***** *****

 13. A Gilded Cage

    Vivaan paced in the vast living room of Sharma residence. It was late afternoon. They had finished lunch long ago and everyone else had gone about their business. Vivaan stayed patiently waiting for Aditi but she still hadn''t shown up.


    It was clear she was avoiding him. She had eaten in her room, not bothering to join them at lunch. And now she was huddled in the study with Grandpa Balwant, no doubt giving him a private account of her two-day excursion with that stranger. Vivaan tightened his fists. He wanted to be in that room. He had every right. This was just her way of showing him his place, deliberately keeping him out of the loop.


    Frustration coursed through his veins. He agreed he shouldn''t have lost his temper with that stranger. But what else was he supposed to do? First those four boys, now this stranger. She was getting out of hand. He had somehow handled her with those four boys, threatening her subtly, making sure she stayed away from them. But he couldn''t be everywhere every time. She should know how to be careful. She should know what was right for her.


    It was all her family''s fault, Grandpa Balwant spoiled her rotten. Yes, she was orphaned, but that didn''t mean he should give in to her every whim and fancy. A trip to Badari, alone, that too on horseback!! Who would''ve thought of it? It was atrocious. Vivaan would never have allowed it. A girl like her was a thing to cherish, to keep safe in a gilded cage. Letting her out to roam free was dangerous. Unsafe for her and unsafe for others.


    Vivaan still remembered her from childhood. Blooming like a daisy, flying carefree like a butterfly. How he''d wished to capture her, hide her in his little box of precious trinkets! He would have guarded her safely, and made sure she was always happy and cared for. But she obviously had other ideas. He had hated it six years ago when she was allowed to join that silly medical course. He had tried his best to persuade her against it, but she wouldn''t listen. For the life of him, Vivaan couldn''t understand the need for that hospital. Those poor peasants didn''t need expensive treatments, and neither could they afford them. A girl like her didn''t need to get her hands dirty. She was made for finer things. She was made for him.


    Not that he didn''t trust her to behave, she was simple that way. All she cared for was that hospital. If it was left to her, she would have become a nun and lived in a convent, donating all her wealth to charity. The Sisters from her school had always admired her giving nature. It was all fine really, Vivaan didn''t mind. She could play doctors, or she could play white-clad nuns. Everything was okay as long as she ultimately came to him. She could give all she wanted, as long as she gave only to him.


    His grandpa had been clever. At the age of ten, he had secured Vivaan''s future perfectly. His own business at the time in Delhi was going through a rough patch and Vivaan''s alcoholic father was struggling. His grandfather had shrewdly played his hand and made sure they always had a fallback.


    Vivaan was eternally grateful. The business had soared since then and so had his fascination for Aditi. If it was left to him, he would have married her the day she turned eighteen. But no. First, she had to disappear for six years and now she was obsessed with that blasted hospital.


    Walking slowly, his eyes trailed past the walls of the living room. It was a majestic room, with floor-to-ceiling windows, carved oak doors, and glass paneling. On one side in a marble canopy was Aditi''s graduation picture, smiling happily, holding her medal. Next to it was her picture with Aron, taken at her last race, when she won a trophy. Vivaan hated them passionately. Everything he despised about her was celebrated in those pictures.


    A muscle twitched in his jaw, an indication of fatigue and anger. He glanced at his watch, it was nearly time to go.


    "Vivaan, will you be staying for dinner?" A gentle voice asked from behind and he turned around.


    Nehal stood there, looking as elegant as ever, wearing a red salwar suit. Deep necked with tight long sleeves, it accentuated every curve of her petite body. Red was his favorite color. He had seldom seen Aditi wearing it, but Nehal wore it often.


    He gave her a warm smile and took a step closer. "You look nice." He complimented her and saw a pink blush creeping on her cheek. He wondered what the Shramas fed their daughters. They both were rather delectable.


    "Thank you. So...you''ll be staying for dinner?" she looked slightly flustered.


    "Of course, if you cook my favorite food Nehal." Vivaan prompted slyly. His mood suddenly improved. He had the attention of at least one Sharma girl, if not the other. And at this moment, he didn''t mind which one.


    "I''ll make okra fry and kheer." Nehal smiled happily and scurried to the kitchen blushing even more furiously.


    Vivaan relaxed instantly. There was something about that smile that erased all his worries. Girls. They had that effect on him. Or rather, he had that effect on them, he thought pompously.


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    Aditi will come round, he was sure of that. But until then Nehal would do just fine. After all, she was his future sister-in-law. And a little harmless flirting was all he was looking for.


    *****


    "I am sorry, Dadaji," Aditi said in a low voice sitting in her grandpa''s study. It was late afternoon. She''d had lunch in her room, then came down to talk to Balwant. "I know I should have returned in a day. But it took much longer."


    Leaning back in his chair, Balwant peered at her over his spectacles. "I was worried, Aditi. If you hadn''t called back last evening, I was going to send Zorawar to look for you." Zorawar Singh was his right-hand man, a man who did all sorts of odd jobs for him. The definition of odd depended on the need of the hour.


    "There was no need for it, Dadaji." She reassured him hastily. "And as I said I got help. I met someone who helped me to reach Badari before dark."


    Balwant nodded. "Yes. Mohit told us you took help from a stranger."


    Aditi blanched. "I had no choice, Dadaji. It was getting dark. And it was the same man who helped me at the racecourse."


    "The same man?" Balwant stared. This was interesting. In the span of two days his granddaughter had been helped twice by the same man. Was it a mere coincidence or something else?


    "Yes," Aditi answered. "Aron bolted and I was left stranded in the forest. Luckily I met him and he helped me to get to Badari."


    Balwant raised his eyebrows. "On his horse?"


    "Yes." She answered after a moment''s hesitation, with her eyes lowered.


    "And the next day you went to the caves? After all these years?" he asked, watching her closely. Those caves, the temple, and the hills had a bloody history. It was not easy to reconcile with it, especially for this girl.


    She raised her head. "I had promised to find him a guide. But there was no one available in Badari. So I had to help."


    Balwant nodded. "And you still don''t know his name?" he asked curiously. His shrewd eyes narrowed infinitesimally. It was seldom that he had to decipher the girl''s idiosyncrasies, he knew her in and out. Yet this time he was intrigued.


    "No." she let out an imperceptible sigh and lowered her eyes again. "I didn''t get a chance. And then it felt unnecessary."


    He gave her a searching look. Her face was open, and honest. She wasn''t lying. But he detected a hint of regret. It was curious. Very curious indeed. "So you spend two days and two nights with a stranger, he helps you twice, and you still think it unnecessary to know his name? I don''t know what to say, Aditi."


    "I''m sorry Dadaji." She had nothing else to say.


    He sighed in exasperation. As much as he liked to think she had Susheel''s open disposition, every now and then he saw Meera in her. Quietly intense, shy, and introverted, the girl was a strange mixture of contradictions.


    "Very well. Is that all?"


    She licked her lips and sat a little straight. "There is something else, Dadaji. I have something to..confess."


    Here it comes, Balwant thought with a slight smile. He had watched the three of them arriving this morning. The boys had looked surly. Aditi looked frazzled, relieved to get home. Something was amiss, but Balwant had kept quiet. He trusted her to tell the truth, and it was not misplaced. If she in turn trusted him to understand, he owed it to her.


    "Go on."


    "The cannabis in the offering affected me. I hallucinated about Mom and Dad and...somehow ended up in a pool. The stranger saved me or I would have drowned."


    Balwant''s eyes widened in shock. But she was not finished.


    "I was unconscious. He...brought me to Sarai and changed my clothes. Nothing happened, Dadaji," she added hastily, watching him turn pale. "But he saw the wound on my leg. The sutures had come off. In the morning when Mohit and Vivaan came, he mentioned it in front of them. And now they think..." Aditi fell silent.


    Balwant suddenly felt tired, looking every bit of his seventy-two years. It was hard. Taking care of her was hard. He had somehow managed to look after her after the death of Susheel and Meera. But now he felt he was falling miserably short. Luckily for him, she was alive. Luckily for her, the stranger was a man of honor. Unluckily though, Vivaan Raisingh was there to see the spectacle. Balwant shook his head wearily.


    "So you are...okay?"


    "Yes, Dadaji."


    "And nothing happened?"


    "No Dadaji."


    "If anything happened you''d tell me?"


    "Of course, Dadaji."


    Balwant took out his glasses and rubbed his tired face. "Fair enough. Thanks for telling me. And don''t worry about Mohit. He''s a sensible boy. Vivaan though..."


    He slumped back slightly. Vivaan was a different kettle of fish. The boy was rather..difficult when it came to Aditi. It was all his fault. It was that stupid promise he''d made to Dalpat years ago. The kids knew about it. When they were young they laughed about it, and even made fun of each other. But then things changed. They grew up. Vivaan became obsessed with the idea, but Aditi had something else on her mind. He knew she humored him to keep the peace, but sometimes even she seemed exasperated.


    "What do you think of Vivaan, Aditi? You know about my agreement with Dalpat, right?"


    Aditi looked taken aback, surprised at the sudden change in direction of the conversation. But she didn''t take long to answer. "Vivaan is a friend, Dadaji," she replied quietly. "And I don''t want to marry yet. I want to get on with the hospital project. It''s already delayed a lot."


    Balwant let out a sigh. So she was unwilling. And understandably so. Vivaan Raisingh was not an easy man to be with.


    "So you don''t want to marry him?" He needed a final confirmation.


    "No." the reply came instantly.


    Balwant nodded with satisfaction. "Fine. I have no issues. You can get on with your project. Some of your friends are working on it with you, right?"


    Aditi''s face brightened. "Yes, it''s Sonal and Rohit, my college mates. They are a couple of years my seniors and want to work in a rural area. And there is Aalok too. You met him the last time."


    Balwant nodded. "In that case, everything is fine. I''ll see you at dinner." He turned his head to the file in front of him as a signal for her to leave.


    Aditi got up and came out opening the door of the study. There in front of her was Vivaan, staring at her coldly.


    ***** *****

 14. A Slap and a Kiss

    Aditi shut the study door behind her and turned to see Vivaan staring at her coldly. A moment passed in uneasy silence. She wondered for how long he had been standing there. The door was solid oak and they had spoken in soft tones. But looking at Vivaan''s face now she couldn''t work out if he heard them.


    "Vivaan! Are you..okay?" She asked unsurely. It was easy to sit in the safe haven of her Dadaji''s study and speak her mind, nothing could touch her in his presence. But right now she was suffocating. The man in front of her was giving her jitters.


    "I wasn''t until now," His expression changed from frosty ice to a sunny smile. "But I am much better now that you are finally free." His eyes flicked on her from head to toe and he forgot he had ogled her sister just moments ago. She was wearing a pastel peach salwar suit. It blended into her like a second skin, he couldn''t take his eyes off. "Come, I have been waiting for so long. We have so much to talk about."


    Pulling her by the wrist he walked to the library just a few paces away and held the door open, but Aditi didn''t enter. The library was her favorite room in the house, she usually spent hours here. But today it looked foreboding, she suddenly had an urge to run back and hide in her grandpa''s study.


    "What do you want to talk about Vivaan? I need to be at Dr. Wadhwa''s clinic at five." Her voice held a slight tremor.


    "Dr. Wadhwa is that homeopathic doctor in the town, isn''t he?" Vivaan asked, casually running a thumb on the soft skin of her inner wrist. She felt a shiver run down her spine. "He can wait a few minutes, Aditi. This is more important."


    Pulling her into the room he led her to a couch by the large bay window. She followed him meekly but with each step, her heartbeat increased, and her throat went dry.


    "Vivaan, I need to see a pregnant lady at five. She is near her time and there are some complications."


    "I said this is more important!" His voice raised in irritation. "Come on Aditi! We haven''t had a chat in ages. I''ve been waiting for so long. And you can go to the clinic after our talk."


    He jerked his head at a chair opposite him. She moved mechanically to take it and saw him smirk. "Vivaan, if it is about this morning then I don''t..."


    He raised his hand and she stopped mid-sentence. "I want to apologize for my behavior this morning, Aditi. I should not have raised my hand to that man. I am sorry."


    Aditi looked at him in surprise.


    "It was out of order. He helped you, and instead of thanking him, I got angry. I should have known better. I apologize."


    Leaning forward he took her hand and pressed it slightly. Aditi stiffened. "I was so worried, Aditi. I heard about your fall at the racecourse the other day. I came to meet you but you were already gone. Then we got your call about Aron bolting and you going to the caves. It scared me to death. I rushed to meet you. But when I saw that man holding you, I lost my senses."


    Aditi didn''t know how to react. This was not the Vivaan she knew. Vivaan Raisingh never apologized. There must be more to this, he wouldn''t let her off the hook so easily.


    "So..we are good?"


    "Of course." He smiled pleasantly.


    "You are not angry anymore?"


    "I am not angry, Aditi. As I said, I was worried for you. I am sorry for my behavior."


    "Thanks, Vivaan." She sounded relieved, confused, and nervous by equal measures. "Please don''t worry too much. I only went to see Ratan Chacha. Then Aron bolted, and then...well you know the rest. It was all a coincidence really. Nothing to worry about." She gave a strained smile and glanced at her watch. "I think I should leave now, I don''t want to keep the lady waiting..."


    "Not so fast, Aditi. We haven''t talked about that wound yet." He smiled mischievously and watched her face pale. "Not that I don''t trust you Aditi, but it feels a bit weird that that stranger knows about your wound." His eyes flicked down her lush body, to her narrow waist, then lower. Her long shapely legs were clamped together shut. A sudden shiver ran down his body. "It worries me to no end, thinking about what would have happened. A girl like you alone with that man. You know it''s not safe Aditi. I would never have let you go."


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    "Calm down Vivaan. Nothing happened. He was a good man..."


    That was the wrong thing to say. No man was good enough, except for him. She should trust no one, except for him. Vivaan''s face hardened. She gulped uneasily, wishing again she was anywhere but here.


    "You are too straightforward, Aditi. Anything can happen. You can''t trust these tourists." That was what he''d warned her when she''d brought those four boys home one evening for dinner. She had seen Vivaan fly into a rage, then take it out on a horse with a lash. It was the same as before. Every time she defied him, someone had to suffer. Someone needed to be punished, only then he would feel happy.


    Friend, she called him, for want of a better word. But he wasn''t like any of her friends. With them she could be carefree, just be herself. With Vivaan, she had to be guarded, always careful of her next word, next action. Anything could unhinge him, a small lapse and he would blow off. Even now he watched her with hawk eyes. Her palms felt clammy as the dread in her heart now spilled into her limbs.


    "I mean...I am fine. There''s nothing to worry about."


    "That''s good to know, but that''s not what I asked Aditi." He continued rigidly. "You know I don''t like this. First those four boys, now this stranger. How many times should I tell you to mend your ways?" His face was stiff with anger. "Now hurry up and tell me what happened in that room. I haven''t got all day. Did you two..? I am ashamed even to think! How could you be so callous, Aditi?"


    Aditi closed her eyes; anger, fear, and humiliation crashed on her like waves. He had no right! It was her life, her own damned life! This man, this arrogant, overbearing, interfering man, had no right!


    Taking a deep breath she calmed herself. She wouldn''t give in. She wouldn''t be cowed by this man. "Think what you want Vivaan, but I don''t need to justify myself to anyone. I am not comfortable talking to you. I have told Dadaji everything. You are free to ask him if you are so concerned." She stood up from the couch. "And now if that''s all, I am leaving."


    She turned to go when felt a strong grip on her wrist. Vivaan stood up and jerked her to him. His face was inches away, torn with insane rage. Not just rage, she noticed in panic; there was something else. A reckless need to control, a wild hunger to ravage.


    Fear swamped her heart. "Vivaan! Let me go.." She tried to wrench free but he held on. His eyes darkened as he pulled her, crushing her to him, savoring his power over her.


    "If you have told him, you can tell me too, Aditi." He hissed between ragged breaths. "Being your future husband, I have every right. I will not tolerate this kind of behavior. Better yet, next time, make sure you come straight to me. No need to involve anyone else. Just come to me."


    He pulled her even closer, savage desire clouding his eyes. Her head swirled as she felt the familiar constricting of the throat. Safety, it seemed, was not guaranteed even under her own roof, among her own people. It was a conscious choice to guard what was hers, be it her rights, be it her body. Her brain made a decision in a split second and her hand landed on his cheek with a loud smack. The sound of the slap fell with a dull thud in the stuffy room and Vivaan staggered back.


    "Behave yourself Vivaan. You are in my house." She spat menacingly and he flinched. "And for the last time, forget about that silly agreement. I have no wish to marry you, or anyone for that matter. I have already told Dadaji and now I am telling you. I am not going to marry you. I am not answerable to you. In fact, I am fed up with you Vivaan. Just go away already and leave me alone."


    Turning back on him she stormed away raging. Vivaan stood in disbelief, too stunned to react.


    *****


    Nehal knocked on the library door after an hour to find Vivaan staring out of the window. The sun had sunk low, making his long shadow nearly reach the door, nearly touch her. Pushing the door open she walked in carrying a tray of coffee. He turned as her dainty footsteps sounded on the marble floor, quiet, delicate, always mindful of others.


    She gave him a smile and crouched on her knees to make him his usual, with a dash of milk and two spoonfuls of sugar. Her silver bangles jingled as she gave it a stir, then got up to hand him the mug. His eyes took in her flushed skin, her downcast eyes. The red dress looked slightly damp from working in the kitchen. She smelt of his okra fry and kheer.


    "Thanks, Nehal." He accepted the mug, his fingers lightly brushing her hand. "You look beautiful today."


    She looked at him in surprise, a joyous blush lighting her face instantly. He felt his frazzled nerves calming, he needed this validation at this moment. His cheek still tingled, the sound of that slap still echoed his head. He needed something to forget it, something to distract his mind off that humiliation.


    Taking a sip, he kept the mug back on the table and turned to Nehal. She looked in surprise.


    "Did you not like the coffee, Vivaan? I made your usual. Is the milk not enough? Or is it too sweet? I''ll make you another one..."


    She hurried to the table to pick up the used mug when he blocked her way.


    "It''s fine, Nehal. It''s just the way I like it."


    She stared at him in surprise. He was barely a few inches away, she had to crane her neck to see his face. He looked so...grave. Disturbed. Yet so boyishly handsome. Something was gushing inside him, craving to erupt out. Her heart melted as usual. "Vivaan, are you okay?" She asked softly touching his cheek.


    Stepping forward he closed the distance between them and pulled her to him.


    "God...you are so beautiful, Nehal." He murmured as he nuzzled her neck. The next she knew, he was kissing her passionately. In his mouth, she tasted the coffee. It was just as he liked. She relaxed instantly. Yes, he was happy. And in his happiness, she was happy too.


    ***** *****

 15. Missing Pieces of a Puzzle

    It was late afternoon when Darsh reached his cottage. Plugging his phones to charge he sent a quick text to Sam, then rubbed his weary face. Three days gone, twenty-seven more to go. It wasn''t a bad tally considering he was well ahead of his schedule. He had achieved a lot, much more than he''d anticipated or rather bargained for if he was being honest.


    His eyes closed on their own accord as memories came unbidden. A golden girl laughing with a little boy in the sunset. A gentle kiss in the velvety night, a yearning hug in the moonlight. The soft touch, the bewitching smile. And then there was the night. His senses awakened with a surge, every ounce of his being focused on one vision. A vision filled with starlight and moonbeams, a jasmine scent in his lungs, and a weird sensation in his heart. The supple softness, the gentle curves, the aching innocence, and utter vulnerability. He hadn''t been able to take his eyes off. He''d sat on the floor admiring her in the flickering yellow lamplight as she slept peacefully wrapped in his blanket. The night had passed in a wink. And in the morning, they had come to whisk her away.


    Irritation filled his heart. He wished he''d spent some more time with her, gathering the missing pieces of the puzzle, knowing more about her. Everything had gone as per his plan apart from the events of this morning when the two ogres had arrived to take her away. The abrupt goodbye had left him feeling strangely dissatisfied. As if a drink had been snatched away before he quenched his thirst. As if a beautiful dream had been cut short cruelly.


    Shaking his head he tried to gather his thoughts. What did he think? That their time together in the hills would last forever? That she would lead and he would follow, that he would sit on the Sarai floor gazing at her face and the night would never end? That was stupid, he shook his head. Good that she was gone before it was too late. Good, she was gone so he could focus on other important things.


    He had made sure the afternoon was not wasted. The new guide had actually proved quite useful. He''d taken Darsh to see those caves and then to the mysterious Lover''s Point. Darsh now knew the history and geography of those caves. He''d seen the underground water source that fed the streams and formed those pools. He''d also seen the place where Meera Sharma bled to death some eleven years ago.


    The guide had looked rather uneasy, and couldn''t wait to get out of there. Darsh couldn''t blame him, he himself felt wretched.


    Then they''d ridden to the Lover''s Point. The boy had hesitated initially, but a promise of a few extra notes had settled his mind perfectly. Darsh had a look at the cliff from where Susheel Sharma had jumped to his unfortunate death. Then walked around trying to figure out the camping spot for the boys. He''d found it a few hundred meters into the forest, secluded, and alone. Charred remains of a long-ago campfire lay scattered around, but the place looked otherwise clean. There were no tents or leftover supplies littering the place. Which was a surprise considering the boys had had to scramble away in haste. Either the villagers had helped themselves, or the goons who attacked them had come back to clean it up.


    His hand went to his pocket to fish something out. An intricate golden chain with a little heart-shaped pendant dangled from his fingers. It was mucky and tangled, having lain under those leaves for weeks, waiting for him. His fingers shook as he untangled it, and held it under the running tap to wash away the dirt. Patting it dry with a soft cloth he gently pried the heart open. The tiny halves of the heart contained two little pictures. A widely grinning man gazed at him from one half while the other showed a beautiful woman. He didn''t need a guide to guess who they were or who the owner was. It was hers. These were Aditi''s dead parents.


    Wrapping it carefully he tucked it safely inside his pocket. It needed to be returned to its rightful owner, at the right time. He couldn''t wait to see her again.


    His mobile rang at that precise moment. It was Sam. "Hi Sam, thanks for the callback. How''s your leg now?"


    "I am ok, Bhai. Recovering slowly," the boy answered tensely.


    "Are you still in the hospital? Is there anyone around you?"


    A moment passed by, then Sam''s voice came back. "No Bhai. I came home yesterday. The doctors said the fracture will take some time to heal."


    Darsh nodded. "Good, so you have plenty of time. Tell me the story again. I want to hear everything, right from the beginning."


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    "It''s the same as we told you before, Bhai." Sam faltered.


    "Again, Sam. I want to hear everything again. Right from the start." Darsh clarified calmly. The boys were all nice but Sam was the nicer one. Darsh trusted him to tell the truth. And anyway, they all knew lies didn''t work with Darsh Rathore.


    "It''s the same what Ajay told you, Bhai." Sam started hesitantly. "The four of us reached Palampur on Friday night and attended the races on Saturday morning. We put bets on some horses but mostly lost. The only two races we won were with Aron, Aditi''s horse. That''s when we met her for the first time. We went to congratulate her. She was nice to us; to everyone really, as you must know now. Vicki was besotted. He asked her for riding lessons. She was reluctant at first, but he insisted. Then she agreed for a hefty charge. Said it was for a good cause, for a charity hospital she was going to set up in Palampur. Vicki of course didn''t mind, he just wanted to be with her."


    Sam paused for a breath as Darsh listened attentively. He had heard this all before, there was nothing new. The only difference was that he could now picture it clearly. A beautiful girl, supple and lithe, warm and bright like the morning sun. Anyone would lose their head. Anyone would lose their heart.


    "Then?" He asked, reminiscing her in his head.


    "Then it all started. The lessons were going well, and even the rest of us joined in. We became good friends. She even invited us to her home a couple of times, and introduced us to some of her friends."


    Darsh nodded. That was the bit that interested him now. Her home, the palace of his princess. That would be his next destination, he couldn''t wait to see her again.


    "So when did it start going awry?"


    "When Vivaan Raisingh came into the picture. We had been there for a couple of weeks by then. She invited us for dinner one evening when Vivaan arrived unexpectedly. He didn''t look very happy to see us. It made everyone uncomfortable and we left soon after. The next day she didn''t come to the lesson. Said she was busy and couldn''t make time anymore. She returned our money and avoided talking to any of us. Vicki tried to get her alone but couldn''t. "


    "Did Vivaan Raisingh interact with you guys?" Darsh asked, recalling this morning''s incident.


    "No. He didn''t talk directly to us. But it was clear he was behind her sudden change of attitude." Sam sounded edgy.


    So far, so good, Darsh had to admit Sam''s version matched that of Ajay''s and Paddy''s. But the story hadn''t finished yet.


    "Tell me what happened that night."


    Sam licked his lips. "It was the last day of our stay. We decided to go camping, we thought it would cheer Vicki up. We reached there by mid-day and set up our tents near Lover''s Point. Later in the afternoon, we decided to see the sunset. She was already there with some of her friends."


    "Go on."


    "We kept to ourselves as much as possible, but Vicki became increasingly agitated. It was the last day and he wanted to talk to her before leaving. He somehow managed to get her alone but they had an argument. She became furious and left with her friends. He became upset and went back to the campsite. We left him alone, we thought it would be better to give him some space."


    "So Vicki was alone at the campsite while you guys were still at Sunset Point??"


    "Yes. We roamed a bit more. It was a lovely night. We sat on the hill, stargazing and chatting. Ate some food we''d carried with us. It was quite dark by the time we returned. Vicki was already asleep."


    "How long were you away for?"


    "About three-four hours."


    There was a pause as Darsh tried to piece the information together. So Vicki was alone for that time. That was when he must have Darshised his plan. Darsh had checked Vicki''s satphone earlier. The last call was to a person called Aalok. The date and time matched too.


    "Do you know Aalok? Was he there with her that night?" Darsh asked abruptly.


    Sam sounded surprised. "How do you know?"


    "Just answer the question, Sam."


    "Aalok is Aditi''s college friend. He was there with her along with the others. But they all left together after her altercation with Vicki."


    Darsh closed his eyes. Missing pieces of the puzzle, he was looking for desperately. Now that they were falling in place, it was hard to look at the whole picture. It was an ugly one, one that broke his heart. His brother had done the unthinkable. Thwarted in love, dejected, and angered, he had thought of this vicious way to take revenge. Darsh still couldn''t believe it, yet he couldn''t deny it either. It all made sense now. A compelling motive, a sudden opportunity, and the necessary means to commit the heinous crime. His brother had all three. He had called on Aalok''s satphone asking Aditi for help. And Aditi being Aditi had rushed back to help. Her only mistake was that she came alone. None of her friends accompanied her.


    A sudden weariness overcame him as weird images flashed into his mind. Of broken glass bottles, of desperate cries for help. And a girl sinking slowly in a deep dark pool.


    "The goons attacked sometime after midnight," Sam continued without prompting this time. "We were taken by surprise and scrambled to get away. Somehow we reached the fork and got in our car, but there were more waiting for us. They chased us in their Jeep. Vicki drove as fast as he could but lost control in the dark." His voice caught as he finally reached the end.


    Closing his eyes, Darsh rubbed his tired face. The tables had turned. The victim and perpetrator had changed places. His brother deserved his punishment. Coma or worse, he didn''t care anymore. His brother deserved death, but a coma was not bad either.


    ***** *****

 16. His Irritating Rash

    Dr. Wadhwa''s Homeopathic Clinic was a small two-storied building in the village square. The old doctor lived on the top floor and used the ground floor to run his humble practice. He had come to Palampur twenty years ago in the hope the fresh mountain air would cure his ailing wife. He had continued to live here after her death, setting up this clinic in this building donated by Balwant Rai Sharma. He liked his quiet life, but Aditi knew he sometimes wished he had a child to carry on his legacy. In the absence of his own though, he had virtually adopted her as his heir apparent.


    Aditi was happy to help, but it was not easy. He practiced a medicine she didn''t really believe in. And the one she believed in was hard to practice here in the absence of proper facilities.


    She sighed as she examined the lady. She was eight months gone yet hadn''t had a single scan or blood test.


    "Why didn''t you bring her earlier? Since when is the bleeding going on?" She asked the lady''s husband who had accompanied her for the visit. The poor man looked worried; he must have taken the afternoon off to get here, which meant a loss of pay.


    "It''s been three days, Di. I couldn''t leave work. She took some herbs, but it didn''t help."


    Aditi shook her head. "She needs a proper gynecologist. You have to take her to Rajpur before it''s too late. They have a good hospital there and you''ll receive good care. I''ll give them a call."


    "But it would be too expensive, Di. And I can''t leave work."


    "You work at the racecourse, right?"


    "Yes, Di."


    "Then don''t worry about it. I''ll have a word with them. And don''t worry about money. Do you have somewhere to stay there for a few months?"


    "We have some relatives there, Aditi Di. But not sure how long this would take..."


    "I''ll see what I can do. But make sure you are ready tomorrow. I''ll arrange a vehicle for you."


    Pulling her mobile out, she sent a text to Zorawar, then turned to her laptop to make notes for the hospital. Vehicle, money, accommodation, she had promised a lot. She needed to get going to get everything ready by tomorrow.


    *****


    Sitting on a rickety desk in the waiting room of Dr. Wadhwa''s Homeopathic Clinic, Darsh listened with an amused expression as the doctor prescribed the lady a package holiday. Tatty cloth curtains hung on the door of her room for privacy, he could hear every word clearly.


    He''d rushed here the moment his contact informed him Aditi would be here today. He''d just wanted to see her once, the call with Sam had left him feeling strangely raw. Now after hearing her he felt a little better. She sounded much like herself, she clearly enjoyed her work.


    Soon the pregnant lady left with her husband looking quite relieved. The next was a little boy of ten, whimpering with toothache accompanied by his irritated mother.


    The next ten minutes were chaos as the boy cried loudly, the mother complained louder and Aditi tried to calm them both to get some work done. It was a test of patience, Darsh had to agree.


    "I''ll give you a ride on Aron if you promise to brush your teeth twice a day." He heard her say and snorted.


    The boy considered this offer. "Only one ride?" he asked shrewdly.


    "One ride every weekend." the doctor sweetened the offer.


    "Every weekend? Promise?"


    "Yes, every weekend, on Sunday mornings. But only if you brush your teeth twice a day. And do your homework and promise not to eat too many sweets."


    Darsh grimaced. Nothing was worth that price. He knew the boy would start wailing again. But to his surprise, the boy prevailed.


    "Then I want a long ride. A verrry lonnnggg one." He put his condition forth. Darsh nearly choked.


    "Done." The doctor sealed the deal and the boy whooped with joy. After ten more minutes the boy left bouncing happily with his mother. Straightening his expression, Darsh got up and walked in.


    The room was small, with a washbasin in a corner and an examination bed alongside a wall. Aditi sat at a small table tapping furiously at her laptop. A small window opened behind her towards the street outside. Boxes of medicines filled the shelves to the brim yet everything was squeaky clean.


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    "At this rate, you''ll be a pauper in no time." He mocked, unconsciously employing his usual defensive mechanism. "Free holidays, free riding lessons, is that how you treat your patients?" And free entertainment for himself, he added in his head. He was getting it abundantly in Palampur, mostly at the expense of Ms. Sharma.


    Her eyes snapped to him. A look of surprise was quickly replaced by a frown. "You again! What are you doing here?"


    He raised an eyebrow. "Is that how you talk to a patient, Ms. Sharma? I thought you had better standards seeing how you treated others before me."


    She looked daggers. "You deserve special treatment for babbling in front of my brother this morning."


    He chuckled. "Why, did it get you in trouble with your brother and your fianc¨¦?"


    "Vivaan is not my fianc¨¦." She snapped in irritation. "And yes, it caused me a lot of trouble. Have you any idea how stupid it was? Mohit is angry with me and Vivaan went mad. I don''t know what he''d do next, and it''s all because of you!"


    "If he''s not your fianc¨¦, you need not bother about him." He answered looking relieved. "And your brother would come round eventually."


    "It''s easy for you to say. You don''t know Vivaan. He might actually hurt someone. He did the same last time..." She suddenly stopped, realizing she was revealing too much. That too in front of a stranger like him. Darsh shook his head.


    "Anyway...how can I help?" She crossed her arms assuming her professional mode.


    "Why, I am here for painkillers. You asked me to get them when I was in town." He reminded her sweetly.


    She bunched her brows. "But you don''t look in pain. I don''t think you need them."


    He sighed. "I can assure you I am in a lot of pain. Just because I am not wailing like a little kid, doesn''t mean it doesn''t hurt. And while you are at it, please also bandage my bruise. As you can see, the one you gave this morning has already fallen off."


    She didn''t say anything though her flaring nostrils gave him a fair idea of her thoughts. Grabbing her medical kit she marched at him menacingly.


    "Sit!" She ordered. He quickly took a chair.


    The next five minutes went in silence as she cleaned his bruise and bandaged it. He kept his gaze studiously away but was uncomfortably aware of the goosebumps on his skin.


    "There." She finished and went back to her chair, then pulled a notepad to write him a prescription.


    "Umm...there''s one more thing." He started hesitantly.


    "Yes, what is it?"


    "As you know, I have a rash." Darsh started with a saccharine smile. "A few days ago it was only on my arms. Now it''s spread to the torso and back. An amateur doctor gave me a cream. I think I am allergic to it."


    She scowled. "If you don''t trust me, then go to Dr. Wadhwa. He is in the next room."


    He shrugged. "Unfortunately I don''t believe in homeopathy, Ms. Sharma. And I think it''s only fair if you fix it considering it was your cream that worsened it in the first place."


    Ignoring his jab she came closer and looked at his arms. Then pinching a sleeve of his t-shirt she pushed it up.


    "I can take my shirt off. It''s worse on the torso..."


    "That''s not necessary." She said curtly. "Just pull it up so I can see."


    Rolling his eyes he pulled his shirt up. It was indeed...bad. It was a result of his recent wanderings at Lover''s Point looking for clues. Something had flared it up. It wasn''t her cream, but he wasn''t going to tell her that.


    "How many times did you use the cream?" She looked puzzled.


    "Only a couple of times, luckily." He replied sweetly. "As I was busy otherwise."


    She shot him a suspicious look. "It''s not a reaction to the cream. I think you haven''t been careful during your sightseeing. You have to stay away from Poison Ivys. It looks like you are particularly sensitive to it."


    He didn''t know what to say.


    "I can give you another cream, and more antihistamines. Stay away from dust, wear loose clothes, keep cool. That should work."


    "And if it doesn''t? What if it gets worse?"


    "Then we can try something else. There''s another cream but I have to see if we have it in stock. I''ll get it tomorrow anyhow in case you need it later."


    She went back to the sink and washed her hands, then sat back at her desk to write a prescription. Her hand stilled for a moment as she raised her eyes to him.


    "My name is Darsh Rathore." He kept his face carefully neutral.


    She gave no reaction and wrote it on the top.


    "Take this to the assistant outside, he''ll give you the medicines."


    He took it and folded the paper. She waited for him to go but he showed no intention of leaving.


    "Is there anything else?"


    His eyes stilled on her for a moment, taking her in. Peach skin, peach dress, a white lab coat with a stethoscope hung loosely around her neck, she looked quite herself. Yet something was missing. His hand went to his pocket, fingers closing around the heart. Yet he couldn''t take it out. How was he to justify the possession of that locket? People didn''t come across such heirlooms wandering about in the mountains. The locket was proof he knew more than he let on. That he knew about the campsite, about that night. She might put two and two together and connect him to Vicki. It was dangerous. He was in her territory. She was still every bit the princess and he was yet to know who sent those goons. His heart told him it wasn''t her, but his brain told him to wait and watch. Besides, he wasn''t one to rush things. Patience had its own sweet rewards, he''d learned early on in life.


    "Yes, what is it?" She asked again, looking curious.


    "Nothing." He shook his head. "Thanks for your help." He was about to leave when he heard her again.


    "So...is your holiday over?"


    He gave her a careful look. This time she seemed...different.


    "I don''t know. It might be unless there''s something more to see."


    "There are many more places here," she said eagerly. "An old fort in the eastern hills, waterfalls, and some other scenic places. Palampur is a beautiful place."


    Darsh smiled. "Thanks. I''ll surely be interested in visiting them."


    Turning his back he left with a smile. She sat there slightly confused at her own eagerness, then called for the next patient. The queue was building up. There was still a lot to do before she left for home.


    ***** *****

 17. An Expected Visitor

    Home. Driving her Jeep through the winding paths of Palampur, Aditi wondered what awaited her tonight. The few hours at the clinic had been a respite. Treating the patients, and talking to them helped her forget her own troubles. Their problems were much worse than hers, their needs more pressing, their worries more real. It gave her a much-needed perspective.


    Now on the way back though, a familiar dread started creeping into her heart. Vivaan Raisingh, slapped and rejected, was not going to take it lying down. He would be there waiting for her. By now he must have decided how he was going to punish her. It won''t be a horse this time, not even a poor servant. Her offense was much worse than ever before. It deserved something drastic.


    Crossing a path lined with towering trees, her Jeep entered the familiar driveway. A shiny new BMW stood next to Vivaan''s grey Porsche, taking her usual parking spot. Which meant Grandpa Raisingh was here too. Her pulse started racing. She didn''t know how he would react to her decision. He already considered her a Raisingh, for him, the actual marriage was a mere formality. Convincing him would be another strain on her poor Dadaji.


    Bracing her heart, she parked her Jeep and entered the house.


    "Well, hello young lady!" Grandpa Raisingh''s booming voice welcomed her from the lounge. "Where have you been? I came here especially to meet you, but it seems you are too busy!"


    Aditi felt slightly relieved. Grandpa Raisingh looked like his usual blustery self. Which meant he hadn''t heard anything yet. "I''m sorry, Grandpa. I was just at the clinic. It took a bit longer than expected."


    "Ah! Let me guess. It must be another case the old doctor couldn''t handle. And as usual, you must have rushed to pick up the slack. I must say Wadhwa is getting lazy in his old age. I can have a chat with him if you like?"


    "It''s no big deal, grandpa. Dr. Wadhwa has taught me a lot. And you know I like to help," Aditi rushed to clarify. "And there''s not much he can do in critical cases. So it''s good he refers to me."


    "But look at the time, young lady. It''s nearly half past eight. It''s not safe to stay out this long, especially for a girl like you." Grandpa Raisingh''s face was etched with concern. "And then, you should take care of yourself. Vivaan told me you are hurt. That''s why I rushed to see you, but here you are, gallivanting off God knows where while your family worries for you."


    His concern somehow sounded like a severe chastisement. Aditi glanced at her Dadaji who looked livid with rage.


    "She is a doctor, Dalpat. They pledge themselves to people''s service when they take the oath." he smiled tightly. "And you know me well. Women of my house are allowed to follow their hearts. In fact, they don''t need anyone''s permission, including me." His voice was light, his words were anything but. Aditi wondered if Grandpa Raisingh would take the hint, but as usual, he dismissed with a wave of his hand.


    "That''s all well and good, my friend, as long as you don''t forget your promise." He wiggled his eyebrows mischievously. "Aditi is ours and your job is to keep her safe until she comes to my house. Right, Aditi?" he asked, stroking her cheek playfully.


    She gave a strained smile. Her Dadaji''s face was turning a shade of purple.


    "As I''ve said before Dalpat, it''s yet to be decided. But as long as she''s in this house, she''s free to do what she wants." He would have said more if Kanta Chachi hadn''t appeared at that moment to announce dinner. Aditi sent her a thankful glance. The woman knew to be at the right place at the right time.


    Dinner that night was a strange affair. At one end of the table, Grandpa Raisingh sat regaling stories about his recent adventures, all of which involved him making tons of money off horses and gambling. Ravi Chachu and Mansi Chachi hung on to his every word, listening to his heroics with starry eyes. Her Dadaji sat through it all playing a perfect host yet hardly saying a word.


    On the other side, the youngsters were in their own little world. Mohit still looked surly and said as little as possible. Aditi kept her head down picking at her food. Okra fry and kheer - Vivaan''s favorite - cooked especially by her sister. She knew Nehal had a soft spot for Vivaan, but today it was glaringly obvious. Her eyes strayed to the pair of them as Vivaan cracked a joke and Nehal laughed heartily. Her sister looked as if she was in seventh heaven. Aditi felt queasy.


    She was right. He was coming for them. This time he was going to use her sister unless she changed her mind. Unless she found some way to protect them both, which was almost impossible by the looks of it. Bile rose to her throat as she stood up abruptly and left from there. She didn''t notice Grandpa Raisingh shooting Vivaan a meaningful look. Neither did she see her Dadaji letting out a strangled sigh.


    *****


    It was late at night when Zorawar knocked on the oak door of his master''s Study. The Raisinghs had left some time ago. It was time for his daily report.


    "His name is Darsh Rathore. He came to the clinic today to see Aditi Di. He needed painkillers and also seemed to have a rash."


    All legitimate reasons. His master nodded.


    "She scolded him about something, then told him she was scared of Vivaan Sir. He told her not to bother about him as he''s not her fianc¨¦."


    His master raised an eyebrow. "Is that so?"


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    "Yes. Then she bandaged his bruises and checked his rash. In the end, she asked if his holiday was over and suggested more places to visit."


    "Hmm..." His master went into a contemplative mode. "Where is he staying?"


    "Hunter''s Cottage. It''s leased for a month, with the possibility to extend. He''s got a horse he keeps at the racecourse stables. And a Range Rover he uses when he''s in town. I learned from the manager that he is here scouting land for a stud farm."


    "A stud farm, eh?" His master''s lip twitched. "Are you sure he''s the same man who helped Aditi at the racecourse?"


    "Positive. My lad who was at the clinic today was there when Aditi Di fell at the racecourse. He is the same man."


    His master nodded. "Find that guide he used. And send someone to the temple tomorrow to bring the old priest. I need to talk to them."


    "As you say, Malik."


    His master gave him a look. "Keep an eye on him. And be discrete. I do not want a word of this to get out."


    "You can trust me, Malik. No one will know."


    His master nodded. "Thank you Zorawar."


    "My lads are watching him, Malik. We can search his cottage if need be. That''d give us more information on his motive." Zorawar offered eagerly.


    His master shook his head. "All in good time, Zorawar. For now, just watch him and report. And one more thing.." The next words came in hushed tones. Zorawar looked curious.


    "Keep an eye on the Raisinghs."


    Zorawar''s face turned ashen. "The Raisinghs, Malik? Both of them?"


    "Yes. Find someone you absolutely trust. It must be done very carefully. There''s no room for error."


    Zorawar pursed his lips. "It''d be done, Malik."


    "Thank you. That''s all for tonight."


    Zorawar bowed deep and made an exit. His master dialed a number and spoke again in hushed tones. Then sat back and closed his weary eyes.


    *****


    The next day Darsh stayed put in his cottage, mostly shirtless, airing his rash. His doctor''s advice was showing effect. And the medication worked much better now that he was away from dust and heat.


    Noon came, and he got up to reheat another frozen meal. A slight movement in the shrubs outside his window caught his eye. The man had been hiding there for quite some time now. Darsh wondered if he should offer him lunch, but dismissed the thought.


    After yesterday''s very public visit to the clinic, he knew he was being watched. Balwant Rai Sharma was hot on his trail. By now he must have had a full report on his whereabouts. Darsh wondered if he''d created enough intrigue to merit a folder yet, just as the one he had on Aditi.


    He should burn that folder, his brain warned. It had served its purpose, he had channeled his hatred towards it when he could do nothing else. It was dangerous to keep now that he was under their radar. Yet he couldn''t bring himself to do the deed. It was her folder. Destroying it felt close to sacrilege. Which was utterly stupid, of course. It was just a folder, a few pieces of paper containing useless information that he didn''t need anymore. He should look out for himself rather than be an emotional fool.


    Burn it, his brain chided. Darsh shook his head. Later. He''d decide about it later. For now, he had something else to look forward to.


    Finishing his meal he gave the cottage a quick spruce-up. Then chose a fresh white t-shirt to go with his grey chinos. Glancing in the bathroom mirror he checked his reflection. He was expecting a visitor soon, he wanted to make the right first impression.


    As if on cue, there was a knock on the door. Darsh opened it to find an old man standing at his doorstep. Silver-haired, proud, and erect, he didn''t need any introduction. An invisible aura of supreme power and authority radiated through him. Darsh had seen only one person with a similar aura before. In that one moment, when he''d mentioned Lover''s Point.


    "Ah, Mr. Sharma. Finally, we meet!" Smiling broadly he offered his hand.


    "Move aside, boy," the man ignored him and walked in as if he owned the place.


    *****


    "So how do you find Palampur?" Sitting on a sofa in his lounge, Balwant Rai Sharma asked casually.


    "It''s a nice place," Darsh answered meekly. Balwant Rai Sharma hadn''t come alone. Two of his henchmen stood outside the cottage ready for any eventuality. They looked decent though he knew they were anything but.


    "Just nice? Not beautiful?"


    "Of course, it''s beautiful." Darsh agreed hastily.


    "How do you find the people here?" Balwant Sharma continued casually. Outside the window, the man came out of his hiding place and stretched his arms. His shirt lifted a little to give Darsh a glimpse of the gun tucked in his trouser belt.


    "Th..they are good." Darsh turned his eyes to focus on his interviewer.


    "Just good?"


    "Umm...they''re beautiful too."


    The old man''s lips twitched. Darsh grimaced. This wasn''t how he''d imagined this meeting to go. It was supposed to start with the man thanking him profusely for saving his granddaughter''s life twice. But so far Darsh hadn''t received a word of gratitude. If anything, it looked like he was the one supposed to be grateful to have the landlord gracing his humble hut. Well, what did he expect? This was her grandfather. He could see where she got her haughtiness from.


    "How''s your rash now?"


    "It''s beaut...I mean it''s nearly gone."


    The man¡¯s lips twitched.


    "So is the doctor to your satisfaction?"


    "Yeah...I mean..she is okay. Quite new. Would be better with experience." Darsh ventured. The man was toying with him. He had to stand up for himself at some point.


    "You reckon?" The man raised his brows.


    "I do."


    "So she has potential?"


    Darsh coughed. Where was this going? "Quite."


    "Well, I am pleased to hear that."


    The man made himself comfortable on the sofa. His next words came cold and sharp.


    "I must thank you for helping Aditi so many times. First the racecourse, then Badari and the caves. It almost feels like you knew exactly where to be and when to be."


    Darsh straightened. This was more like the line of conversation he wanted to follow, yet the way it started gave him jitters. "It was nothing, Mr. Sharma. I did what anyone would have done in my place. And I assure you it was a mere coincidence. I just happened to be at the racecourse that day. And the meeting on the way to Badari was also by chance."


    "Ah, but then there''s no such thing as coincidence, is it?" The man tilted his head. "Both you and I know it doesn''t exist. Men like us make them happen, at our convenience, to suit our needs."


    Men like us. The words sounded ominous. Darsh wondered just how much Balwant Sharma knew about him.


    "I assure you it was nothing but a coincidence. I was there at the racecourse to collect Eros for my excursion in the hills the next day. It was only by chance that I saw Aditi struggling. If you''d rather I didn''t help her..."


    Balwant shook his head. "No no, boy. What you did was commendable. As I said I am forever indebted."


    Darsh let out an imperceptible sigh. He was treading through choppy waters. The man was suspicious about him and rightly so.


    "Now let''s talk some business, boy," Balwant Sharma said, suddenly looking grave. "Tell me what a property magnate like you is doing in Palampur. And don''t try to act smart. I want the real reason. The real reason."


    Darsh smiled broadly. "Why, I am sure you already know it, Mr. Sharma. I am here to scout land for a stud farm. And I also think Palampur has great potential for medical tourism."


    ***** *****

 18. Lonely Hearts and A Proposal of Sorts

    It was another busy day for Aditi as she sat in Dr. Wadhwa''s clinic going through her patients. She had been here since morning. Usually, her time here served to calm her down. But today she could not shake her anxiety. Last night''s incident kept troubling her mind. Her sister had never looked so happy. And Vivaan had never given her such single-minded attention. It was only a matter of time before he''d make his move. Or maybe something was already on, she just didn''t know it yet.


    As usual, her fingers reached her bare neck, restless, seeking the reassurance of her mother''s locket. But there was nothing for them there, the delicate string they were looking for was missing. She wondered where it was. Like the many other things she had lost that night, the locket too was gone forever. It would probably be lying somewhere in the muck, mangled and dirty, being trampled by tourists and wild animals. Like she had lain that night, broken and befouled, changed beyond recognition. She would not wish such fate for anyone, least of all her little sister.


    Her hands shook as she picked up her mobile and dialed home. Luckily it was Kanta Chachi who answered the phone.


    "Chachi, is Nehal home yet?"


    "No Aditi." Chachi sighed. "It''s been a long time. Even I am worried."


    "Did she say where she was going? Or when she''d be back?"


    "No. She left in a hurry." Aditi chewed her lip.


    "Did you...see her leaving? What was she wearing?"


    "I think it was another of her red dresses." The answer came after a brief pause. Aditi swallowed.


    "Thanks, Chachi. Please call me when she is back."


    Ending the call she closed her eyes. It seemed the wheels were already in motion. She had to act before it was too late.


    *****


    "I am here to scout land for a stud farm. And I also think Palampur has great potential for medical tourism." Darsh smiled broadly as he stated his reason. Balwant Sharma watched as the boy told him about his business plans. He was not a boy really, no more than his Susheel was. The same height, frame, same intense dark eyes, even the deep baritone he used to make his case reminded Balwant of his late son. It was surreal.


    But he was lying. He was not here for business, of that Balwant was sure.


    "But why Palampur? You are from Delhi. I''m sure you''ll have many lucrative opportunities in Delhi itself. Why such interest in a remote place like Palampur?"


    "I came here for a holiday, Mr. Sharma. The racing season here is famous all over India. I think a stud farm here would most definitely be profitable. And as you said, the place is beautiful. Rich Indians and foreigners would pay through their noses to come here for luxury treatments."


    Balwant pursed his lips. The boy was a smooth talker, just as he had been informed. Young blood, whose meteoric rise to the top had been a hot topic of discussion in many circles. Balwant himself had not been a part of those circles for many years now, but a couple of calls was all it had taken to retrieve the necessary information. Darsh Rathore, the new star on the property horizon, was a go-getter. Some called him ruthless, some called him fierce. Many admired him, and others feared him. Everyone was wary of him, and most importantly, nobody wanted an enemy like him. That was good. He was just the kind of man Balwant needed at the moment to counter Vivaan Raisingh.


    "Your idea is good." Balwant smiled indulgently. "But I was not born yesterday, boy. I know you are not here for a holiday or business. All you have done since when you arrived here is follow Aditi. So stop lying and tell me what exactly you want." Darsh licked his lips. His eyes flickered to the window, then out of the door where Balwant''s men stood guard.


    "Umm..you''re right. There is something else," he started hesitantly.


    "I am listening."


    "I..might be interested in your granddaughter." Darsh gulped. Balwant smirked. Now they were talking. He was wondering when the boy would come to the point.


    "You are saying you like Aditi?"


    "Yes."


    "How long have you known her?"


    "Four days." Balwant gave a wry chuckle. It was funny how often the boy reminded him of Susheel.


    "And what about her? Does she like you?"


    "Umm...I don''t know. Maybe not." As expected, the boy was clueless. Balwant curled his lip.


    "Well then. The matter is settled."


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.


    "But I''d like to try," Darsh added hastily. "That is why I suggested the stud farm and hospital. It would be good to spend some time together. I''d like to...convince her, with your permission."


    "You mean you want to woo her, with my permission, in the guise of a business proposal?"


    "Yes." Swallowing hard, Darsh nodded. "I think that''s about the right way to put it."


    Balwant smirked. He had the boy where he wanted him to be. Darsh Rathore would help him get rid of Vivaan Raisingh. And God willing, if Aditi agreed, there would be someone else to look after her. His own days were numbered. His Susheel was long gone, Mohit was too young. And he had no expectations from Ravi. Darsh Rathore was his last hope.


    "Fine. You can try your luck," he said with a faint smirk. "You have until the end of your lease. If you''re not successful until then, don''t bother to extend it."


    *****


    A few miles from Hunter''s Cottage, in a secluded riverside villa, Vivaan Raisingh sat on a sofa with the girl in his lap. Her thick hair tumbled over his face as his teeth sunk into her neck. A whimper of pain escaped her lips as she tried to move away, but he tightened his grip, keeping her in place.


    "Vivaan...I have to go now. Di has already called so many times."


    Vivaan smirked. Ten times, to be precise, and there were innumerable texts. Aditi had been trying to reach her since morning, in between her patients, whenever she got a breather. Unfortunately for her, Nehal was stuck with him, unable to move a muscle without his consent.


    "Some more time, sweetheart. I can''t have enough of you." Pulling her closer, he worked harder, eliciting sweet moans from her lips. She was all over him, and he couldn''t wait to get inside her. Alas for him, his grandfather''s warning was fresh in his mind.


    "Don''t get too handsy. And keep your trousers zipped."


    Vivaan grimaced. Handsy, he already was, he just couldn''t help it. And he didn''t know how long he could contain the bulge in his pants. For a moment he was back in the library, with another girl pressed to him, ripe and taut, ready to pluck. He should have taken the chance then, tasted her while he had the opportunity. Shaking his head he adjusted his position. That girl had never left his mind, not since that library episode, not ever since their childhood.


    "Vivaan..please. It''s late. I have never been out for so long before.."


    "There''s always a first time for everything, my love. And Aditi stays out all the time. You should learn something from her."


    Silencing her mouth with his, he worked her soft spots. Her protests soon subsided as she gave in to his demands. She was too submissive. So soft and mushy, he could as well be cuddling a pillow. There was none of the fire of her wilful cousin, neither the lithe body nor the taut curves. How he wished it was Aditi and not this dumb girl. It would be much more fun taming the wild than this.


    "Next time, wear a peach dress," he commanded when he was finally done. The sun had nearly sunk and Nehal had gotten his permission to leave for home. "And for God''s sake, stop wearing red all the time. I am getting sick of it."


    The girl gave him a half-puzzled, half-scared look. Then nodded unsurely.


    "Vivaan, you love me, right?"


    "Of course, I love you, Nehal. And I''ll keep loving you forever, just remember to be a good girl like you have always been." The girl''s face brightened, then fell again.


    "But what about Di?"


    Vivaan shrugged. "What about her? You know I have to marry her, Nehal. Our grandfathers decided it long back. But don''t worry, it''ll always be you who I love."


    "But..why can''t we marry Vivaan? Di doesn''t even love you." She whined and Vivaan smiled. Her jealousy was a wonderful balm for his bruised ego.


    "You know my hands are tied, sweetheart. Grandpa is adamant about this marriage, I can''t go against him. I have to marry Aditi to keep him happy. But my heart will always belong to you."


    Pulling her closer he pecked her lips, then tied a golden bracelet around her wrist. It had both their initials engraved on it. V and N. Nehal looked delighted, her gripe a second ago completely forgotten.


    "Thanks for coming." He mumbled insincerely, stifling his yawn. "I was feeling so lonely."


    "Anything for you Vivaan. I''ll be there whenever you need me."


    Vivaan shook his head. Her stupidity was her only saving grace. The girl had practically fallen into his lap, he never knew it would be so easy. She had been there for him from childhood, it seemed, waiting for him to take notice. All this time when he was promised to her cousin, Nehal had harbored a crush on him, secretly wishing for Aditi to go away so she could take her place. And yesterday, by some miracle, she got her wish. He had finally noticed her, kissed her, and granted her wish.


    Vivaan smiled as he waved her goodbye. His needy kiss on the spur of the moment had led him to an unexpected discovery. And not a moment too soon, he needed something drastic this time to make his point to Aditi. His days of hurting servants and horses were over. He had to hit where it hurt the worst. And Nehal was an apt target, readily available, at his service.


    *****


    Half an hour later Balwant Sharma left, followed by his men. Darsh let out a sigh of relief. He had a feeling of being neatly led into a trap. Only he had walked in willingly.


    The man was shrewd. Too shrewd, too dangerous, and too close to the truth than he would have liked. Admitting the real reason for his visit would be near suicidal. It would lead to uncomfortable questions, then to his brother''s shameful deed. And then there was no telling what''d happen next. It won''t matter that Vicki was already on his deathbed, the man would seek retribution. There would be further punishment. His life, his business, his family everything would be at stake.


    He needed an alternative. Something that would suit the changed circumstances and protect the interests of both parties. It had to be a believable excuse. And what could be more believable than what the man already suspected?


    Not that it was the untruth, he thought wryly. Now that he had said it aloud, he had no trouble admitting it to himself. He was attracted to her. Or rather, enamored was the right word. She had possessed his mind right from the first moment he set his eyes on her. Haughty, proud, and beautiful inside and out, she was unlike any he had met before. He was lucky he hadn''t acted rashly and harmed her. He would have only scuppered his chances. And this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.


    Excitement bubbled in his tummy. This was going in the right direction. Tomorrow. He would start tomorrow. He still had twenty-six days left. Not that he needed that many going by his previous record. But this new challenge was too important to lose.


    Whipping out his mobile he made some important calls, first to his mother, then to his business partner Rajeev. Preparation was the key. He had no intention of extending the lease on this cottage. But neither did he want to leave Palampur in a hurry.


    ***** *****

 19. Her People

    Vivaan sat on his sofa with a stiff peg of whiskey gazing wistfully at his mobile. The few hours with Nehal had been a good past-time but they had only served to stir him further. He wished his grandpa hadn''t ordered him to hold back. But then there was no such decree with Aditi. He would go far and beyond with her if he got another chance.


    Closing his eyes he stretched his legs before him. His mind involuntarily strayed to the library. The touch, the feel, the scent, the slap! How it gave him the kick! Next time. Next time he''d return it with interest. And claim what was rightfully his.


    His phone buzzed and he smiled. Finally, his wait was over.


    "Hi, Aditi, how are you? I was waiting for your call." He spoke lovingly, imagining her worried face. He pitied her. Poor girl had unnecessarily brought this on herself.


    "Vivaan, is Nehal with you?" She came straight to the point. Vivaan smiled.


    "Sorry, Aditi. You just missed her. She just left a while ago. We had a very good time, I wish you were here to see us."


    It felt nice to talk to her. The last time they talked, it had ended rather unpleasantly. This time he''d make sure he got the desired result.


    "Vivaan, please. Whatever it is, it''s between the two of us. Don''t bring Nehal into this. She is innocent." She sounded stressed, which was good. She should be stressed, she should be worried. That just showed how well she knew him.


    "Ah, but there''s nothing between us, is it?" He mused. "Didn''t you say just yesterday? So I am free to do as I please."


    "Vivaan! Your problem is with me. Please don''t harm Nehal. She trusts you."


    "Don''t worry Aditi. I have no intentions of harming her...yet." He smirked, twirling the glass in his hand. "She was here just for emotional support. Yes, we did get a bit carried away...but you know, these things happen. It was all very innocent...and consensual."


    "Vivaan! How could you! Nehal loves you. At least have some decency. She is your childhood friend too! "


    Vivaan scoffed. Childhood friend, his foot! When they were little he hardly noticed Nehal. She had a habit of trailing behind, watching them hungrily as he and Aditi lead the pack. Mohit was little, yet tried to keep up with them, but Nehal was a pure nuisance. She was no friend, a voyeur at the best. And now she was just a useful tool to achieve his goal.


    "Vivaan, you are still my friend. And we will remain friends. But please, leave Nehal out of this. Don''t mess with her, please."


    Vivaan shrugged. "Sorry, Aditi. I was never just a friend and had no intention to be. We have a word from your grandpa and it must be honored. So it''s no use begging me. You can fix this yourself. And you know how."


    Wishing her goodnight, he cut the call and sat back contentedly. This was much better than his usual methods. Nehal and Aditi, it was a win-win situation all the way.


    *****


    Aditi rushed home in a frenzy. She had to see her sister. She had to see Nehal with her own eyes to make sure she was okay.


    Entering the house she sprinted upstairs to Nehal''s room, only to be stopped outside by Mansi Chachi. "She doesn''t want to be disturbed. She is tired and needs rest." Chachi always made sure her daughter got enough privacy. Her room was forbidden to everyone else. When she was little, Nehal spent hours there, playing alone with her dolls. The only time she mingled with other kids was when Grandpa Raisingh visited with Vivaan.


    "Please, Chachi. I just need to see her once." Pushing past her, Aditi entered the room. Nehal sat on the bed painting her nails in a shade of peach. She looked like her usual self, cool and collected, with not a hair out of place. Aditi''s heartbeat eased a little.


    Letting out a sigh she glanced around. The room had changed for sure. In place of the little play kitchen, now stood a giant dressing table with an array of cosmetics and perfumes lined on it. Gone were the doll houses and countless teddy bears. The space was taken by rows of branded shoes and bags. What caught her eyes was the open wardrobe doors. Rails of clothes hung there, half of them in different shades of red.


    "What do you want, Di?" Her sister''s question drew her attention back.


    "I...just came to check if you are okay. You didn''t answer my calls today. I was worried."


    "I am fine Di. Just busy. And my phone was in my purse." She went back to painting her nails. Aditi waited for more, but her sister remained distant. This was how she was. This was what she did to fend off unwanted people who interfered in her matters.


    Bracing herself, Aditi ventured ahead. "You went to see Vivaan today."


    It came as a statement. Nehal looked unruffled. "So?"


    Aditi licked her lips. "So...I want you to stay away from him."


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    "Why?"


    "Because I say so." Aditi persevered. "Please, Nehal. Vivaan is not right for you."


    Nehal put her nail polish away. "He is not right for me because I am not you?" She asked coldly. "Because I am not the princess with beauty, brains, and bank balance?"


    Aditi exhaled. She knew this would take this turn. Ravi Chachu compared himself with her father, Mansi Chachi with her mother. And Nehal felt compelled to do so with her. There was nothing she could do about it.


    "You are getting me all wrong, Nehal. Vivaan doesn''t care for you, and neither does he care for me. He is only using you to spite me..."


    Nehal smiled. "He does care for me, Di. And you are right, he doesn''t give a damn about you. So why don''t you go and mind your own business, Di? Just go and leave us in peace."


    Aditi felt her blood heating. "Mind your language, Nehal! Vivaan is only doing this because I rejected him. You know about his...issues, his anger episodes, right?"


    "He gets angry because of you, Di." Nehal sneered. "He gets angry because of your wanton behavior. You and your friends, horses, and that filthy riff-raff of villagers! Why don''t you just go and live with them, Di?"


    "Nehal! You are crossing your limit. I am here to warn you. Vivaan doesn''t care for you, he is only doing this to spite me.."


    "Oh, get over yourself, Di." Nehal laughed scathingly. "Everything is not about you, the world doesn''t revolve around you. Vivaan is with me because he prefers me. He''s finally seen your true colors and has decided you are not worth his time."


    Aditi reddened, heat pounding her head. Nehal continued, savoring her discomfort with delight. "First those four boys, then that stranger. And God knows how many more you''ve had in the past six years. How shameless is that, Di? What right do you have to tell me to stay away from Vivaan?"


    "Nehal!! How dare you!"


    "Oh, I dare, Di. I have been wanting to say this for a long time. Truth is that you don''t deserve Vivaan. It''s only that silly promise that''s binding him to you. I wish you would go away. I wish you would disappear like your parents so Vivaan would be finally free."


    Aditi closed her eyes as waves of insults crashed over her. Leave, leave, leave! The chant was getting unbearable. Her sister''s feelings were not new, they were a mirror of her parent''s feelings. Ravi Chachu resented his brother. Mansi Chachi, a yesteryear''s failed actress, had always felt inferior to her mother. Her Dadaji''s openly preferential treatment hadn''t helped. The bitterness had only festered with the passing of time.


    It had only ebbed with the death of her parents. Ravi Chachu had finally relaxed and given up trying to impress his father. He didn''t need to, there was nobody to compete with any longer. Mansi Chachi had been the same. She had produced the sole heir to the family, that was her achievement to gloat over her mother''s death. And Nehal had inherited these sentiments.


    Aditi always thought Nehal would have been much happier if she''d never returned from her course, or found some doctor to settle away permanently. And today she had just confirmed her suspicion.


    Well, tough for her. If wishes were horses, beggars would ride.


    "That''s enough, Nehal." Her voice was ice cold when she spoke next. Her shaking fingers tightened into fists. "Now listen to me. I am not going anywhere, this is my home, and I am here to stay. Get that in your thick head!"


    Nehal looked at her askance, her face turning pale.


    "And you are going to stay away from Vivaan. Do you get that? Stay away from Vivaan, or I''ll get Zorawar to lock you up and make sure you behave. I''ll not have your acting stupidly, jeopardizing your own life and mine with it."


    Her sister''s face whitened. Aditi smirked. Zorawar''s name held power. There were only two people in this world who could stand him - one was her Dadaji, and another was herself. The rest feared him, and rightly so. Nobody wanted to mess with an ex-murderer, a man who''d served a jail term for an unforgivable crime.


    "You can''t do that." Nehal blurted, finding her voice back. "You have no right. Dadaji will never allow..."


    "I can, Nehal. And I will. You know Dadaji will support me. So get over it and get in line, that''s best for you."


    Nehal stared at her wide-eyed, disbelief, hatred, and anger oozing out of her every pore. Aditi could feel the heat but stood her ground. Just this once, just this moment. She had to stay strong for herself and her sister.


    "Why are you doing this, Di? You don''t even love Vivaan. How could you be so selfish, Di? How could you be so mean?" Nehal wailed pathetically, her bravado a while ago disappearing into thin air.


    "Call me whatever you want, Nehal. I don''t care. But you are not seeing Vivaan again."


    She turned sideways to see Mansi Chachi and Ravi Chachu glaring at her. Next to them stood a shocked Mohit and Kanta Chachi.


    Aditi sighed. She hadn''t realized they had an audience.


    "Aditi, how dare you threaten.." Ravi started vehemently.


    "Good you are here, Chachu," Aditi cut in cooly. "You''ve heard it all. Make sure Nehal stays away from Vivaan. And if she doesn''t, you can find someone else to sign your next cheque."


    Turning on her heels, she walked out calmly. Mansi and Ravi stared at her open-mouthed, then rushed to console their sobbing daughter.


    *****


    Aditi entered her room and shut the door behind her. Walking to the terrace, she stood against the wall. The night was cool, the air was heavy with heady scents, yet nothing helped tonight. Sliding to the floor, she sat with her back against the wall. The cold marble felt soothing, almost numbing the pain.


    The bravado, the pretense, the fake nonchalance, everything was in tatters. No armor had been thick enough to stop those barbed words. They had pierced like arrows and found their mark.


    Characterless. That was what they thought she was. First Vivaan and Mohit and now Nehal. She knew that expression of utter disgust and hatred. Revulsion. She had seen it on him. She had seen it on Darsh Rathaure when he asked her to be friends.


    Maybe she was. She was marked for it, even had the stamp for it. It must be true if they all believed it. She''d better start believing it too. It''d just make her life easier.


    Yes, she had to make her life easier. She wouldn''t let Vivaan control her, nor would she allow her sister to act stupidly. There was only one way to avoid disaster and that was to put her foot down.


    They will hate her for it, she was sure of that. But then they already hated her, there was nothing new.


    Closing her eyes she let the hot tears roll. She had to calm herself. There were worse things in this world. She had her Dadaji, who loved her and believed her truth. And then there was Aron, who didn''t need any explanation. A smile lit her face as she thought of him. Her friend, her sweetheart, her buddy. Getting up from the floor she squirreled down the vines to Aron''s stable. He whinnied excitedly and hurried forward to nuzzle her face. Aditi stood against him, holding him for dear life, running her fingers through his silken mane. Slowly her nerves calmed. Yes, she didn''t need anyone. She didn''t need anyone as long as she had Aron and her Dadaji.


    ***** *****

 20. A Practical Proposal from a Practical Man

    "I''m sorry Dadaji, but I did what I had to do."


    Aditi said with downcast eyes, sitting in a chair of Balwant''s Study the next morning. Her uncle and aunt had complained to him about the last night''s fracas. And she was duly invited here for this audience.


    "You don''t have to apologize. The girl deserved it."


    Her Dadaji''s tone was unusually grave. The news of last night had spread in the house like wildfire. Nehal hadn''t bothered to keep her voice particularly low. And although the house staff was trained and trusted to keep their mouths shut, Aditi knew it was only a matter of time before the whole village was gossiping about it.


    Shivering slightly she hugged herself. Last night''s incident weighed heavily on her mind. Her sister''s vitriolic words just wouldn''t leave her alone. Falling asleep in Aron''s stable hadn''t helped either, her body was stiff and achy with cold.


    "You know it''s not going to solve Vivaan''s problem, don''t you?" Balwant asked rubbing his temple.


    "I know Dadaji. But it''d at least keep Nehal safe. It''d give us some time to think of a solution."


    Solution. What was the solution? Getting rid of Vivaan was not easy. The Raisinghs were too close, almost family. Businesses were tangled, there were joint ownerships, partnerships. After her father''s death, her Dadaji had taken far too long to return to work. Grandpa Raisingh had of course stepped up to help, and in the process, had spread his tentacles even deeper.


    Her heart trembled with each anxious thought. She was on borrowed time. For all she knew, Nehal was planning her next move right now, trying to get a one-up on her. She hoped at least her uncle and aunt would take her threat seriously. She just needed time. Little more time to find a way out.


    All this had started with that big mouth Darsh Rathore. His one indiscrete comment had started this chain reaction. She wished she had never met him, had never asked for his help, nor had offered to be his guide. She should have stayed away from trouble. It was a mistake she''d never repeat again.


    "Please don''t worry, Dadaji. We''ll think of something." She said with the courage she didn''t really feel. "Maybe be we should talk to Grandpa Raisingh. He''d understand. And Vivaan may calm down with time. We just have to wait a bit longer."


    Her Dadaji gave her a look full of skepticism. It was clear he didn''t believe a single word of it. "I have thought of something else, Aditi. I met with Darsh Rathore yesterday. He has a proposal."


    *****


    Darsh sat at the restaurant of the Royal Equestrian Club of Palampur, waiting for Aditi. Her grandfather had fixed this meeting for 10 AM. But his excitement had got the better of him and he had arrived at an hour early.


    Drumming his fingers on the table he glanced around. The restaurant was not busy, but there were definitely more people around than he''d seen before. The weekend was approaching and the usual racegoers had started arriving in anticipation of the weekend revelry. It was Friday, the fifth day of his visit. Five days was all it had taken to get him here. Five days, and he had gone from intense hatred to a throbbing heartache. He wondered where it would lead him next. He just couldn''t wait to see his final destination.


    Thinking of which, where was she? He glanced at his watch. There were still twenty minutes to 10. Sighing to himself he signaled the waiter for more coffee. He was on his third cup and was already feeling his adrenaline pumping. He wondered how it had come to this, he had never imagined himself acting this weird, feeling like a teenager, waiting for his first-ever date with his heart in his hand.


    He remembered his first date years ago. It wasn''t much. The girl had mostly stared at him open-mouthed. He was bored stiff and had scampered off after the first coffee. Today it was likely the roles were reversed. In all possibility, he would be the one gawking. And she would be as usual annoyed, waiting to be rid of him, as she had done in the Sarai.


    The thought dampened his spirits. For all her grandfather''s goodwill and his own prolific experience, he knew this could go either way. This was to do with his own false start with her. The fear of Vivaan Raisingh was a factor too, it could swerve her either way. And then there was the secret of that night, the night that had scarred her for life. Stuffing his hand in his pocket he fingered the locket. The smooth warm touch somehow gave him hope. He was going to give his best try. Giving up on her was not an option.


    The minute hand soon reached twelve. His eyes lifted to see a delicate figure striding in through the doorway. The murmur of sounds died down as heads turned to stare. His princess had arrived. Waiters bowed reverently and hurried forward to welcome. She walked with her usual grace, acknowledging them with an easy smile yet somehow aloof, distant. Her eyes found him instinctively and her smile froze. He felt a shiver run down his spine. Here was his dream, his destination, his ultimate death wish. He was ready for her. Or rather, as ready as he ever could be.


    Bracing himself he stood up and smiled. "Hi, Aditi. Thanks for coming." His heart raced a mile an hour as he extended his arm for a handshake. She ignored it stoically.


    "I have to be at the clinic in 10 minutes. I only came to give you my decision. Whatever this crap you''ve been feeding my grandfather, you need to take it back."


    *****


    Aditi gave her decision and glanced at her watch. It had taken her twenty minutes to make this detour for this appointment her Dadaji had fixed without her knowledge. She''d stay here for another five minutes, then she''d be off.


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    "Please take a seat, Aditi. We should talk properly..."


    "I am fine, thank you." She declined politely but it came out a bit harsh. She couldn''t help it. To say she was shocked was an understatement. And it was not just shock, but a deep embarrassment and anger. Her Dadaji, in his desperation, had thought of this solution. He was cunning that way, he knew very well how to use his power. It was clear Darsh Rathore had been coerced to say what her Dadaji wanted to hear.


    Darsh sighed. "So, why do you think it is...crap?"


    "Because that''s what it is. You lied under duress. You must have been scared of Dadaji and his men, so you came up with this codswallop." That was what it was, a load of bullshit, claptrap, balderdash. He hated her, there was no way he wanted anything to do with her. "Anyway, there is no harm done. You can tell Dadaji you were wrong, you have no intention of starting any business here, nor any other interests, and leave." She crossed her arms and waited. Four minutes to go now, this shouldn''t take too long.


    "And why would I do that, Aditi?" He looked amused. "I assure you I am very much serious about my business proposal. And everything else." Leaning back leisurely he gave her an indulgent smile. He had all the time in the world while she was on a tight leash. Her irritation increased trifold and along with it the thudding in her heart.


    "Look, I know my Dadaji can be a little too intimidating." She tried again, but her patience was wearing thin. "And Zorawar and his men are enough to scare the living daylights out of anyone. It''s very normal to feel pressured. But you don''t need to lie. I can assure you of your safety, no one will harm you. Just finish your holiday and return. Just go back to wherever you are from, and forget about this place."


    By the time she finished, her voice was stretched thin. Her irritation was apparent, and so was his anger.


    "I am from Delhi, Aditi. I''ll return if I want, when I want, by my own sweet volition." His voice was dead cold. "And my name is Darsh Rathore. I don''t take orders from anyone, neither from Balwant Rai Sharma nor from you. "


    Aditi blanched. It looked like she''d touched some raw nerve. "Look, I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to offend or insult. I am only saying you don''t have to do anything out of fear. You can leave here safely, there''s is no obligation on you to keep your word to Dadaji." She looked at him hopefully. That was the best she could do. She was offering him an easy way out. It''d make his life so much easier, and hers too.


    His face softened, the cold fury giving way to a wistful expression. Then there was something else too, but she couldn''t fathom what it was.


    "I am touched by your concern, Aditi. But you are wrong. I was not forced into submitting to your grandfather''s wishes. My proposal is genuine. I am really interested in...doing business with you."


    She ground her teeth. This was taking longer than she expected. The man was adamant, and foolish, too. Maybe this needed a more systematic approach. One that''d take his proposal apart, piece by piece.


    Pulling a chair, she sat at the table. His mouth twitched.


    "So, what made you suddenly so interested in this business proposal?" She asked taking a sip of water that a waiter had rushed to place in front of her. She wished her Dadaji hadn''t chosen such a public place. People were watching them, some surreptitiously, many quite openly. "A few days ago, you came here as a tourist. Two days ago, in the clinic, you asked for new places to visit. And now you have suddenly changed your tune. May I know what caused this sudden change of heart?"


    He shrugged off-handedly. "I am a businessman Aditi and a businessman is never on holiday. I am always looking out for new opportunities for expansion. And as I said to your grandfather, Palampur has great unexplored potential."


    Fair enough, Aditi sighed. That was a good answer. Over to the next. "Then I''d say I am not the right partner for you. I am just an amateur doctor and a wannabe racer. I work with people and animals, not with profit and loss statements. I don''t know the ABC''s of business, I''ll only be a liability."


    His face changed once more, there was that weird look again. She turned her eyes away. It was difficult to maintain eye contact when he had that tender expression. Almost as if he wanted to... she swallowed hard.


    He smiled. "That''s hardly a problem, Aditi. You''ll be there as a subject matter expert while I''ll take care of the business side. You have excellent knowledge of horses and you are a qualified doctor. I think we''ll make perfect partners."


    "Well, I don''t think so." She flared in irritation. Would the man ever give up? Her five minutes were long since over. How much more time did she need to waste here? "I think it''s a rubbish idea. It''ll never work."


    "What will never work?"


    "The stud farm and that luxury hospital of yours," she snapped furiously. "The stud farm is a ghastly idea. I don''t support such practices. Horses have feelings for God''s sake!" She could never imagine Aron farming his babies. Her friend deserved better, and all other horses too, if she had a say in it! "And I want a charitable hospital for the local public, not a place for the rich to throw money to get luxury treatments. So that hospital of yours is out of the question."


    There was a pause as he considered her objections. His eyes crinkled with amusement, and something else. That something else was becoming a permanent fixture on his face, making her nervous, almost jittery.


    "Both of these concerns can be addressed easily, Aditi," he said almost lazily. "I think a stud farm is a brilliant idea considering our mutual interest in horses. And although I am not as sentimental about them as you," he cleared his throat, "I can understand your concern. We can mold the breeding practices as we like."


    Her face reddened, but she kept her glare full on. He, too, continued nonchalantly. "And as for the hospital, you need funds for a charitable hospital. The money from the rich can be directed to charity, that way you won''t have to fund everything out of your pocket."


    Her face reddened further, remembering her recent encounter with the pregnant woman. Yes, she was funding the treatments herself, but she had never given it much thought. Now that he mentioned it, she knew he had a point. It was not sustainable, not if she wanted a long-term solution.


    "So you see Aditi, you need to think like a businessman. Emotions would only take you so far."


    "Well, thanks for your professional advice," she replied through her teeth. "But I still don''t see the need to work with you. I can manage all this by myself. So thanks, and goodbye." Pushing the chair she got up. This conversation was futile. He was never going to give up, nor would she give in. It was best to leave.


    "Wait Aditi, not so fast. What about my other proposal?" He shot to his feet, eyes flashing in anger. The restaurant around them quietened to pin-drop silence.


    She turned back to give him one last look. "That one is a definite no. And believe me, I have taken this decision very practically. There are no emotions involved."


    Nodding her goodbye, she walked out. Yes, it was a practical decision, considering Vivaan and the risk involved. And then there was that look he''d given her, that had spoken volumes. He''d hated her then, thought her a loose woman. And once he knew more, he''d hate her even worse.


    A strange ache formed in her heart, but she ignored it resolutely. This was for the best. The chapter of Darsh Rathore must be closed. She already had a lot on her plate, there was no room for any more trouble.


    ***** *****

 21. Adult Pursuits

    The mid-morning sun was slowly getting intense. Darsh watched as Aditi walked out, cool and calm, utterly composed. It took her a minute to climb down the flight of granite stairs to the parking lot, and then a few more seconds to get to her Jeep. Her steps were as usual, elegant, measured, and precise. The only slight catch was when she got into the driver''s seat - her palm clutched her left thigh, the wound making its presence known.


    The silence around him continued; people who watched her go, now turned their heads to watch him. He tried to school his expression but knew it was too late.


    "Another one bites the dust..."


    A voice mocked from behind. He didn''t know who it was but knew they were all smirking, shaking their heads in delight. Fingers curling around the heart, he counted to ten. He had to calm himself. There was no need for anger. No need for it when patience could easily achieve what he wanted.


    Standing at the open restaurant window, Darsh continued his watch. He didn''t know what he was waiting for. A clue, a signal, a little something to calm his frazzled heart. She''d looked so unaffected, it would be good to have something to hold on to until the next time.


    Getting into the vehicle Aditi put the ignition on and glanced into her wing mirror. The soft honey brown of her eyes reflected in it, zeroing on him. Their gazes mingled. For a fleeting moment, he saw a wistful expression, something like a pain, a longing. It could be a trick of the light, it was gone before he could gather himself.


    The Jeep reversed and pulled away, speeding on the dirt road in the direction of the village. Smiling slightly, Darsh settled his bill and walked out. He had got what he wanted. Her one look had done the trick, he could already breathe easy.


    By the time he reached his cottage, he was already planning his next move. No emotions involved, she''d said coldly. Well, he''d see about that.


    *****


    Aditi returned to the clinic in time for her morning appointment. Everything was sorted now, everything was good. As long as Nehal stayed put, Vivaan didn''t overreact, and Darsh Rathore kept away, everything should be fine. Surely, it wasn''t too much to ask for? She just needed some time. Time to calm down, time to regroup. Time to find a solution that wasn''t in sight right now, but it would come to her soon enough.


    Noon came. She asked the assistant to get her another cup of tea.


    "Sorry, Di. Dr. Wadhwa asked not to give you tea at lunchtime."


    Aditi grimaced. "Please, Bipin. I need a strong tea. You can have my tiffin today, Kanta Chachi has made your favorite aloo-palak."


    The boy''s face sparkled. Getting her some tea, he scampered off to his lunch break. Aditi pulled out her phone. The first call was to Rajpur hospital to check on the pregnant woman. The next one was to Kanta Chachi. The news from home was not good. Nehal had stayed in her room, sulking, refusing to have any food. Ravi Chachu had had another argument with her Dadaji. This time he had kept three demands. First, his father should propose Nehal''s match for Vivaan. Secondly, his father should supply enough dowry so Dalpat Raisingh agrees to the match. And lastly, he should be given his share in the property. As expected, all three were rejected and Ravi Chachu was sent away fuming. Aditi felt bad for having caused this rift but didn''t know what else she could have done.


    "Chachi, please make sure Dadaji takes his blood pressure tablet. He tends to forget when he is stressed."


    Cutting the call she stared at the phone. Chachi hadn''t mentioned Mohit. She wondered which way he would lean now, although he loved her and they shared a great bond, he was also very proud and loved his family.


    Sighing slightly she dialed the next number. Sonal had recently taken up a new job in Delhi. A conversation with her was long overdue.


    "Where have you been?" Sonal complained. "It''s been weeks since we last met. Why didn''t you return my calls?"


    "Sorry Sonal, I''ve been a bit busy." Aditi chewed her lips. The last time they talked was on that night. A lot had happened since then, her friend was totally in dark. "How''s your new job?"


    "It''s okay. The work is good, but I don''t like the place. Too much crowd and pollution. And the mess food tastes horrible."


    Aditi listened as her friend droned on with her ever-increasing list of complaints. Sonal had never been away from her family. Her hometown was Lucknow, from where they all had done their medical course.


    "By the way, when are we starting on the hospital project? Did you talk to the architect?" Sonal asked excitedly.


    Aditi smiled. "Yes, I have arranged for the architect''s visit. We''ll start once the plans are in place."


    "That''s great!" Sonal chirped excitedly. " I can''t wait to be back in Palampur. The last time we came, I couldn''t even watch the sunset properly. How about a visit this weekend? We can resume our sightseeing and also discuss the plans."


    "Umm...no, not this weekend." Aditi faltered. "I am a bit busy, have a few things to sort out. But I am on it, I''ll let you know."


    Sonal frowned. "Is everything okay, Aditi?"


    "Yes, everything is ok Sonal. It''s just that something has cropped up unexpectedly. I just need to take care of it before we start."


    The line went quiet. Aditi knew what her friend must be thinking. Sonal had an idea about Vivaan and had also witnessed her argument with Vicki. She had tried to probe that night when they were on their way back. Aditi hadn''t been able to give a straight answer, and then Vicki had called on Aalok''s mobile.


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    "So..is everything sorted with Vicki now?" Sonal asked hesitantly. "And how is Sam? He was hurt that night. Is he okay now?"


    Aditi swallowed uneasily.


    That night. She wished it was erased from her memory, from her life. But she was not so lucky. It will stay there forever, galling, goading, taunting, and testing. Creeping on her maliciously when she least expected it. "Yeah...it''s all sorted." she blurted unsteadily. "They all left. I am not in touch anymore. It''s all...finished."


    "Are you okay, Aditi? You don''t seem right..."


    "I am fine Sonal. I need to go now, I''ll talk to you later." Aditi answered hastily and cut the call.


    Wiping her clammy brow she tried to catch her breath. She needed to get a grip. Such conversations were inevitable. With time they''ll disappear, with time it will all be fine. Until that time, she just needed to hold on.


    Finishing her cold tea she readied herself. Lunchtime was over, and people were gathering outside. It was time to get back to work.


    *****


    A few miles away in the riverside Raisingh Villa, Dalpat Raisingh sat on his swing in his favorite spot on the terrace. The morning was hot, but the villa was surrounded by greenery. And the breeze from the river was enough to compensate for the overhead heat. Leaning back into his cushions, he sipped on his fresh lime water. The brass chains whinged delicately, at this age, he was getting a bit too heavy for this swing.


    "You don''t need to worry. It''s all under control." He reassured pleasantly, stroking the woman next to him. His eyes slid over her well-matured figure. She was in her late forties, well past the officially desirable age. But even after two kids, she still held a certain appeal.


    "Please. I don''t like this. Keep Vivaan away from Nehal. She will not be another plaything for you and your family." Mansi''s voice was tight.


    Dalpat curled his lip. Plaything was the right word. The woman had certainly improved her vocabulary in her twenty-three years as a Sharma Bahu. Alas, vocabulary was the only thing she had improved. The rest of her was still the same, a pathetic wannabe, a greedy low-born.


    "I said you don''t need to worry. Vivaan will not overstep his boundaries." He waved her away but understood her concern. The Raisingh men had a reputation. And who would know it better than her?


    Years ago, Mansi was introduced to him by a mutual acquaintance. He was on a business trip to Mumbai and needed company for one night. The young girl, a struggling actress, had taken care of all his needs. He was so impressed, he had taken her back with him and installed her in one of his lavish apartments in south Delhi. Ah, those were days of bliss, he still remembered them fondly.


    "You shouldn''t have come here. You know it''s risky, right?"


    "I had to come. Nehal has a mark on her neck." Mansi stuttered uncomfortably. "I don''t know where this will go if they meet again."


    "She''s an adult. Presumably, she came out of her own volition. And you can''t just blame Vivaan, it takes two to tango." His arm reached out to caress her cheek, then trailed down to curl around her neck. It had been years since he had her. He wondered if she still tasted as good.


    "How''s your father-in-law, by the way? Did he have anything to say on this?" Dalpat asked casually pulling her closer. The swing swayed precariously, metal rings creaked louder making her wince.


    "He is worried. And Aditi crossed all her boundaries yesterday, threatening my husband with money, and Nehal with Zorawar. The girl is flying too high. You need to do something about her."


    Dalpat laughed. He admired the girl''s spirit, he had seen her fire in childhood itself. She would need special handling once she was married to Vivaan, but that was not his immediate concern.


    "All in good time, sweetheart." He caressed her lovingly and pulled her closer. "How are things with your husband by the way? Is he keeping you happy?"


    She looked irritated. "What is it to you anyway? You got what you wanted. You played with me to your heart''s content and snared Ravi when you had your fill. Luckily he was too blinded by love to see through it, or I''d be on the streets today."


    His lip twitched. Blinded by love. Another apt description. He had introduced Ravi to Mansi when he had come to Delhi for a racing event. The girl had swept him off his feet. He had proposed to her that very night and was married to her the next day. Balwant was obviously furious and refused to accept her. But Dalpat had put in his good word. His private life with her had remained private, and his obligation was fulfilled too.


    "You should thank me for that, I settled you for life. And maybe once in a while, it would be good if you consider a payback." Pulling her close he fondled her plump assets. She struggled a bit, then let him have his way.


    "Come to bed." His voice was hoarse. It had been ages. He didn''t remember the last time they''d had a chance, since when that idiot husband of hers had come into the picture. And then it would''ve been too risky, too foolish to jeopardize his ties with Balwant. But now that she was already here...he felt himself hardening. It would be so unfair to waste the opportunity.


    "No." She pulled away in mock anger. "I''m a married woman now. And I love my husband."


    "Do you, now?" He laughed loudly. For all her wiles he knew how to make her comply. Money was always her weakness and after Aditi''s threat, it was clear she was looking for an alternate source.


    The stupid woman had taken a great risk and risked him too. But now that she was here, he couldn''t just let her go.


    Walking to the wardrobe he pulled out a thick wad of notes. As expected, her face brightened.


    He didn''t have to do much after that. She was too willing to oblige. His needs were taken care of like they were in the olden days. She had only gotten better with experience, he was hardly able to breathe when they were done.


    It was well into the afternoon when she got up to leave.


    "So what are they planning to do now? Surely Balwant and Aditi must have had a talk about it?" he asked stretching in his bed. His informer in the Sharma house could only tell him so much. What went behind closed doors, especially those of the Study, was still a mystery.


    "I don''t know." Mansi looked irritated. "You''d think after all this time, after so many years after their deaths, at least now he''ll involve us in family matters. But no. He still shuts us off, treats us like outsiders, as if Aditi is his only living relative."


    Dalpat shook his head. He admired Balwant. The man had proved he had wits to match his own.


    "Even Mohit is angry this time, seeing his father treated like dirt. And Ravi.." She stopped, suddenly losing her chain of thought. Fear once again clouded her face."Ravi thinks it''s okay for Nehal to meet Vivaan. In fact, he even demanded Babuji to propose their marriage."


    "And you don''t think it''s a good idea?"


    "Of course not!" She looked horrified. "Please. It''s not right. Keep Vivaan away from Nehal."


    His brow furrowed. He had wondered it often, Nehal was born premature, but had looked like a healthy baby at birth. "So you think...? "


    "I know." She snapped.


    He watched as she left, back to her prim and proper self, back to being a respectable Sharma Bahu. She had really perfected her act, no one could have accused her of any untoward behavior.


    Scoffing to himself he got up. This latest revelation changed nothing. It didn''t matter who Nehal''s father was, as long as she served his purpose. His game had started long ago, and it would only end when he achieved his purpose.


    ***** *****

 22. An Ultimatum

    It was nearly night when Aditi finished her work. The clinic was empty. Dr. Wadhwa had already retired for the day. The assistant had left long back, his hours finished at five-thirty.


    Rinsing her latest teacup at the sink, she grabbed her bag to leave, when someone knocked on the door. It was Vivaan.


    "Hi, Aditi! Glad I didn''t miss you. How are you?" He greeted pleasantly and entered.


    Her face paled. "What do you want Vivaan?"


    "Why, I came to thank you, Aditi. You have no idea what you have done today, I am so happy."


    Smiling broadly he took a step forward. He was hardly a few feet away, two more strides and they would be face to face. A nervous shudder went down her spine. She hadn''t expected him to come in person. The memory of their last meeting surged in her mind. He too was clearly remembering it as his hungry eyes ran down her body. They stopped below her waist, near her thigh, before lifting up casually back to her face.


    "I need to go Vivaan. I am already late. You can come tomorrow or can call me sometime." She tried to sound brave but her heart was sinking. The shops around were closed, there was no one around. No one, except the two of them.


    "I only need a few minutes Aditi. It won''t take too long, I promise."


    Pulling a chair he made himself comfortable. Aditi watched cautiously.


    "So there are two things." He started leisurely. "First, I want to thank you for rejecting that Darsh Rathore. You did the right thing. I am so happy you are finally seeing the sense."


    She kept her look steady. So the news had reached Vivaan. It was obvious - her exchange with Darsh Rathore had been witnessed by many. And although nobody was close enough to hear the actual words, their expressions had been a dead giveaway.


    "I did it for my own reasons. It''s nothing to do with you." She said stoically.


    He curled his lip. "And secondly, thank you for grounding Nehal. She''s been calling me non-stop today, begging me to rescue her. She even said she was ready to elope with me. Can you imagine? Such a shameless girl!"


    Aditi licked her lips. So he was here to threaten her. He was happy that she had rejected Darsh Rathore. But he was still watching. A little toe out of the line and he would pounce on her. He was here just to make sure she knew this well.


    "Don''t worry Vivaan. She won''t be able to go anywhere. I have Zorawar on the watch. He will make sure Nehal is safe."


    She watched with satisfaction as his face paled. Vivaan hated Zorawar, not only because he was fiercely loyal to her Dadaji, but also because of his peculiar dislike of everyone with Raisingh surname. Zorawar''s sister was once in the service of Vivaan''s parents. The girl was slightly retarded, but Veena Raisingh, ever the good samaritan, had taken her under her wings. Everything was fine until one day when the girl was found in Kabir Raisingh''s bed in a compromising position. Zorawar had lost his marbles and ended up killing some of Kabir''s bodyguards.


    Kabir fled to Delhi, never to return to Palampur again. His wife divorced him promptly, taking with her a chunk of wealth that Grandpa Raisingh still sorely missed.


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    Aditi sighed. That was one of the reasons Grandpa Raisingh was adamant about this match. Her mother''s inheritance alone was three times that of Grandpa Raisingh''s total net worth.


    "Zorawar can''t save you for too long." Vivaan''s harsh tone brought her back. "He can''t be everywhere every time. So stop dreaming and face the reality, Aditi. This little game of yours is utterly useless."


    "It''d be better if you face the reality, Vivaan." She spat venomously. "I told you I''m not interested. So stop dreaming and go back to Delhi. You are not needed in Palampur." Her voice was stern, but she felt exhausted. She had uttered similar words this morning, to a different man. They were wasted on him, and by the looks of it, they were wasted on Vivaan too.


    "I am not going anywhere, baby." His silky smooth voice dripped with venom. "I am here to stay, with you, forever. And you can''t do anything. Because if not Nehal, I can always use someone else. There is no dearth of pawns, you can''t protect everyone."


    Aditi blanched. "What do you mean?"


    "Ah, you know very well what I mean. I can always go back to a servant or horse. Or rather one particular servant and one particular horse." A crooked grin erupted on his face. Aditi''s heart jumped to her throat.


    "How about I use Aron this time? Surely you love him and will do anything to protect him?" He mused thoughtfully. "Or I can use that maid Kanta. I know she is your special favorite."


    "Vivaan! How could you! Don''t you dare..." She spluttered pathetically.


    "Her husband Jeevan works on your dairy farm, right?" He continued nonchalantly. "I see him sometimes, commuting on his rusty bicycle. He should replace it really, it could get him into a serious accident."


    She stared at him speechless. He was clearly enjoying, this was what he was best at.


    "And she also has a daughter, right? Vandana? Seventeen-year-old, first-year student, Rajpur college? Such a tender age! She too walks daily to and from the bus station. I don''t understand girls these days. Such unnecessary risks they take in the name of education!"


    His face was full of concern, but his eyes danced merrily.


    "Vivaan! You are insane! Do you even know what you are saying? I can report you to the police!!" The threat sounded hollow even to her own ears. Police won''t be able to do anything. He would use someone else to do his dirty work. There won''t be any proof against him and Grandpa Raisingh would be there to throw his weight around. Her head swirled in panic. He broke into a fit of laughter.


    "Really Aditi, is that the best you can do? Believe me, sweetheart, it will only make things worse." He laughed hysterically, spluttering in between coughs as tears of insane mirth rolled his eyes. Not for the first time, Aditi wondered if he needed psychiatric treatment.


    "Vivaan, please! Not Aron, not Kanta Chachi..please..." She mumbled haplessly as her own tears rolled down. Her face burned with shame, it was as if she was asking him to choose someone else.


    "Hmm! Not the maid, not the horse, it''s not fair Aditi." He made a face. "Fine, I don''t mind. It could be anyone really. It could be your Ratan Chacha, it could be Dr. Wadhwa. The name doesn''t matter as long as I get the desired result."


    Aditi stumbled back, her back hitting the wall. Vivaan got up from his perch. His message was clearly delivered.


    Coming closer he stood right in front of her. His hand raised to her wet cheek to stroke it delicately.


    "All this can be easily avoided, Aditi. I have given you enough freedom. I let you do your course, I let you do your racing, I let you work in this...hovel." He wrinkled his nose in disgust. "But one thing that is non-negotiable is the promise our grandfathers made. You must honor that. There is no way out."


    "Vivaan please!" She begged, eyes streaming in terror. "Try to understand. I don''t..."


    "Are you not listening?" He snapped in irritation. "It is non-negotiable."


    His finger trailed to her ear, tucking a loose strand of hair behind it. Her tears rolled in the earnest, fear, disgust, and humiliation clouding her already foggy brain.


    "It''d all be your fault, Aditi. These people, who love you dearly will suffer unnecessarily because of you. Think about it, Aditi. Think before your next step."


    Pulling her close he tried to peck her lips. She jerked her head away as revulsion roiled her innards.


    "Leave." She managed to utter through a surge of spasms as bile burned her throat. He gave an indifferent shrug.


    "Fine. But don''t make me wait too long. You know I''m not a very patient man." Giving her one last look, he walked out.


    Aditi ran to the sink to vomit her guts out.


    ***** *****

 23. A Cuckoo in the Nest

    Aditi retched, her stomach regurgitating the leftover water from its cavity. Clutching the sink ledge she bent over, it felt as if her intestines were spilling out.


    Leaning against the sink ledge she scrunched her streaming eyes. Faces swam across her mind...Aron, Kanta Chachi, Ratan Chacha. There were others that he hadn''t bothered to mention. He was right, it could be anyone and the result would still be the same.


    Another bout took her over, and she bent over, hair spilling on her face. This time not much came out, just some spittle of brown liquid. Her insides churned horrendously as if they wanted to eject something more. It was the shame, the helpless fear. The guilt that she''d risked others in her selfish quest for freedom.


    What was she thinking? How could she even imagine ever being out of his clutches? It was inevitable, she''d known that all along. She still remembered the day from years ago when this had all started. They were children, playing tag in the sunlit meadows outside her home. She was running ahead, hair flying in the wind, imagining herself on a flight with the swans. Vivaan was chasing her, but she''d already left him far behind. Spreading her arms she ran, hoping for the wind to carry her, hoping for some magic to lift her in the air. She''d only stopped when she came to a hillock, to admire a little patch of wildflowers. When Vivaan finally caught up, he was out of breath, snorting through his nose like a charging bull. She noticed he was carrying something in his fist.


    "See what I found..." Catching his breath, he beckoned her closer. Her eye lit up with curiosity.


    "What is it Vivaan? Show me, what are you hiding?" She skipped to him eagerly, barely able to contain her excitement. Looking smug, he parted his fingers to give her a little peek. There was a tiny yellow butterfly sitting in his palms. It looked so small and delicate, just out of its cocoon.


    "I found it in the meadow. It''s beautiful, isn''t it?" He watched her hungrily.


    "Yes." Her eyes were on the tiny creature fluttering its wings, testing its strength for flight. "It wants to fly. Let it go, Vivaan."


    "No."He shook his head. "I am gonna keep it. I like it."


    Pinching its tiny body in his fingers, he lifted it up for a better view. Then with the other hand, he calmly proceeded to rip its wings apart. Her face went white with shock.


    "See? Now it''ll stay with me forever."


    "But..it''s dead!! How could you Vivaan!" She managed through her tears, her tiny seven-year-old heart trying to comprehend what just happened.


    He smiled victoriously. "But that''s the point, you see? Now it can''t fly away."


    Wrapping the dead insect in a leaf he shoved it in his pocket, then grabbed her tiny wrist to march her home. "It''s all your fault Aditi. Next time don''t run away from me. If you had stayed close, it''d still be alive."


    By the time they reached, she was a sobbing mess. The lesson was learned, the message was delivered perfectly. It would be a mistake to forget it, she''d only have herself to blame.


    Her convulsion surged as she swayed precariously. Her head was about to hit the sink wall when someone pulled her back.


    *****


    "Aditi!" Someone''s familiar voice filled the room. In a moment he was beside her, holding her arms, scanning her in shock. "What happened? Are you okay?"


    She leaned in dazed, her head resting on his chest in a moment of relief. "Darsh..." The word escaped as a bare whisper.


    "I am here." Pulling her close he hugged her tight stroking her with gentle fingers. A minute passed in silence as they stood together like a pair of long-lost lovers. His arms around her tightened a fraction making her stiffen. Gulping hard she pulled away. He let go reluctantly.


    "Care to explain what''s going on? What was Vivaan Raisingh doing here?"


    Her face paled. "You saw Vivaan! Did he see you?"


    "Of course not! Or he wouldn''t have left, don''t you think?" He replied caustically while flushing the sink on the side. Leading her by the hand he made her sit and poured her a glass of water.


    "What did he want?"


    "He.. just came to talk." Hands shaking, she took a grateful sip. A trickle of water escaped her lip to trail down her chin.


    "And his talk gave you a panic attack?" He picked a tissue to wipe it clean.


    "It was not a panic attack," she tried to smile making light of it. "Just a little stomach upset."


    "You are really a bad doctor Aditi if you can''t even differentiate between the two." Scoffing in irritation he continued cleaning her face. She felt too weak to even take offense at his jibe. She was messy. Cold, wet, and stinky. The smell was so overpowering, she wondered how he could even stand there.


    "Please. You don''t have to. I''ll do it..." She tried to protest, but he swatted her hand away.


    "Sit quiet and let me help."


    She let out a sigh and let him get on with it. It felt nice. The last person who cared for her like this was her Ma. After her death, it was she who''d supported her Dad. And after his death, she''d made sure she never cried, especially in front of her Dadaji.


    "I think you should do the rest yourself." His words brought her out of her daze. She looked puzzled before realizing her state. Her face flamed with embarrassment. Her wet dress was clinging to her chest, revealing a bit too much for comfort. Her dupatta was lying at the bottom of the sink pedestal covered in her gunk.


    Mortified, she tried to cover herself. What was she doing? It wasn''t even ten minutes that Vivaan left. It was just moments ago that she''d reminded herself of his lesson. And yet here she was, sitting in this chair, getting pampered by this...tourist. It said something about her character, or rather the lack of it, especially when she herself rejected him this morning. The thought punched her gut viciously. Jolted, she staggered up to her feet.


    "I...have to go home. Thanks for your help."


    "I''ll drop you, you can''t drive in this state. But first, we need to finish our morning conversation." Handing her his jacket he walked out. A minute later he was back with a plate of biscuits.


    She felt her irritation returning. "Look, I am grateful for your help. But that doesn''t mean I''ll change my decision. I gave you my answer this morning. It''s final, there''s nothing more to say on it." Clutching his jacket around her, she gave him a defiant glare. He pursed his lips.


    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    "Eat. You look like you haven''t eaten in days."


    "Are you not listening?" she ground her teeth. "I said I am not going to change my decision, whatever you do!"


    "Whatever I do?" He cocked his head, an amused smile playing his lips. "You don''t even know what I can do Aditi. So far I have been playing nice, very much by the book. But I have my ways to get what I want."


    Standing a few feet away from her, he casually fingered something in his pocket.


    She felt a chill in her bones. "Are you threatening me?"


    "I am merely stating you don''t know me enough. Your grandfather clearly knows better, that''s why he''s trusting me. I suggest you do the same and consider my proposal."


    "Look, I told you already. I am not interested in your stud farm or hospital or..."


    "I am talking about my third proposal, Aditi. The only one I am truly interested in."


    She swallowed and fell silent, her palms going damp. She wished her Dadaji hadn''t put her in this quandary. Third, fourth, fifth, she wasn''t in a position to agree to any of his proposals. Vivaan would go berserk and do something that she will never be able to forgive herself for.


    "I am sorry but my answer is the same. And it''s nothing to do with you. I just can''t consider it, my decision has been made long ago."


    "And it looks like Vivaan Raisingh is the reason for your decision. Funny how you promised me all that protection this morning when you yourself are so afraid of him." His lip curled in a mocking grin, but eyes remained on her watching curiously.


    Her lips quivered. "Well, that just goes to prove I was right. No one is safe here, I can''t protect anyone."


    "And if I can take care of Vivaan?" He asked with casual confidence.


    She broke a piece of biscuit and put it in her mouth. It tasted bitter, it was her own bile souring it. Smiling wryly she pushed the plate away. "You can''t do anything, you don''t even know him. It''s my problem, I''ll handle it."


    "You are underestimating me, Aditi." His face was inscrutable. "Your grandfather clearly knows better."


    She shook her head. "Dadaji overestimates you. Even he cannot do anything, knowing Vivaan for years. It''s unfair of him to expect it from you."


    "And if I prove myself? What will be my reward?"


    "What do you mean?"


    He smiled. "There''s a reason why your grandfather trusts me, Aditi. I can take care of Vivaan, you''d be free of him, forever."


    She swallowed. Forever sounded nice, a dream come true. But she knew it was impossible. And it was definitely not worth the risk.


    "You can''t do anything." She said tiredly, repeating Vivaan''s words. "You can''t save everyone, you can''t be everywhere every time."


    "I have no wish to be everywhere every time Aditi, that would be tedious." He gave a little laugh, shaking his head at the ridiculous idea. Her irritation increased, along with her heartbeat. "I only have to be at the right place at the right time. So tell me, what will be my reward?"


    She swallowed. "It''s not that easy. He can target anyone. My family, friends, Aron. Even you."


    "I asked, what will be my reward, Aditi?"


    The intensity in his eyes was drowning. She felt heat creeping her neck. Yet along with it, came a sinking sensation, a deep foreboding, quivering angst. What he considered a reward was not really a reward. It was a punishment, a dark, gloomy place full of shadows. It was hers and hers alone. She couldn''t lead him to it.


    "Please. I beg you. Leave me alone. Forget what Dadaji said, forget everything. Believe me, you''ll thank me later. You''ll be better off without getting into all this." Her eyes teared up haplessly as she crumpled with shame. A minute passed in silence as he stared at her face.


    "I can''t," he stated simply.


    She looked puzzled. "What?"


    "I can''t leave you alone. I am...too deep in this. I feel responsible, it''s my job to sort it out."


    "What do you mean?"


    He licked his lips. "I mean it was my reckless comment that triggered Vivaan off. I am sorry. Let me help you, Aditi. I''ll take care of everything."


    She shook her head tiredly, her nostrils flaring again. Why was he so stubborn? What was his problem?


    "I told you it''s not that easy, why don''t you get it? And I don''t understand your sudden interest. The two days we were together, you made it pretty clear what you thought of me. I still remember every word. Then why this sudden change?"


    His face lost color as he ran a hand through his thick hair. There was a moment of pause, then he looked straight into her eyes. "It was a mistake, Aditi. I apologize. I took you for someone you weren''t. It was my fault, not yours."


    A simple explanation, quick and honest. Her fists tightened as she searched for words to say. This was ridiculous. There went another of her objections through the window. At this rate, she''d soon run out of all her excuses. And she needed to put him off. She needed to...escape.


    "And when did you have this realization? The night you saw me naked?" She hurled the accusation cringing at her own words. They felt disgusting to utter, but they had the desired effect. His face burned with anger. A wry smile lit her face. Good men like him were easier to handle. It was easier to offend his honest intentions than challenge Vivaan''s brutishness.


    She waited for him to explode, but to her dismay, he maintained remarkable control. After another uneasy minute, he was back to his calm self.


    "Nice try, but it won''t work Aditi. But now that you have broached the topic, I''d like to offer an explanation."


    "There is nothing to explain, it''s pretty clear what your interests are. So my answer stays the same." She took a tentative step in the direction of the exit. He shifted slightly to block her way. She sighed.


    "Not so fast Aditi. You can''t leave without having my answer."


    Taking a step closer he stared at her face. His eyes slowly traveled south, to her heaving chest, then down to the dip of her waist, to the tips of her toes. They took their time to roll over her curves, before coming back to stare into her eyes. Dark eyes, fathomless, sucking her in like black holes. Her throat went dry as nervous ripples crawled her skin. Half an hour ago it was Vivaan undressing her with his roving eyes. Now it was this man, whose gaze felt like...a shroud of darkness. Soft, and warm. Mysterious. All engulfing, and devouring.


    A tear escaped her eyes. He had seen it all, at his leisure, to his heart''s content. At this moment she had nothing to hide. Except maybe the shame in her eyes. Squaring her shoulders she met his gaze, with the defiance of a spoiled brat, with the brazenness of a wanton. Her facade was her cloak, her arrogance her savior.


    His hand lifted to touch her cheek, a gentle finger wiped the tear away.


    "That night...had an effect on me." He confessed in a quiet voice, his beautiful head lowered as if in prayer. His face was solemn, blazing with brutal honesty. "You are a very beautiful woman Aditi, I haven''t seen anyone like you. I have no shame in admitting it. In fact, I have been affected ever since I saw you at the racecourse."


    Her heart thudded erratically, she stumbled back in shock. This was getting ridiculous. He was not supposed to feel this way. Not when she was a stinking mess, not when she was so repulsed by her own self.


    "That night you saw my wound, right?" Her next words came harsh, cold. "You said it was from a bottle. Obviously, you must have guessed how I got it?" The effort was too much, she swayed and clutched the chair. Her eyes streamed but there was no sound of a sob.


    He looked taken aback. Maybe he hadn''t expected her to be this brutal in return.


    "It...doesn''t matter Aditi. It''ll heal." He hesitated as he searched for words to console. His hand raised to cup her cheek. "It''ll get better. I''ll help you..."


    "It matters to me," she stepped back. He was too late. He should have been here before those boys came. He should have met her before Vivaan ever came into her life. Now her path was set, there was no turning back.


    Minutes passed in silence as they stared at each other. She, with her arrogant defiance, with her false pride that propped her up like a vine in a raging storm. He, with the angst of a caged beast who''d smelt his food, yet couldn''t reach it.


    "It''s too late." She said coldly glancing at her watch. "I am leaving and I think you should leave too."


    He let out a sigh and grabbed her arm. "I said I''ll drop you."


    *****


    It was just before midnight when Balwant heard a car on the driveway. From the open terrace of his first-floor bedroom, he could see a black Range Rover turning into his porch. It stopped at the front and Aditi got out. Behind her, from the driver''s seat dismounted Darsh Rathore.


    They exchanged some words, Balwant couldn''t hear or see much from this distance. Then the boy leaned in to kiss her forehead.


    She waited until he left then turned to walk in. Balwant let out a strangled sigh.


    Zorawar''s latest report was on his table accompanied by a thick envelope of photos. He hadn''t had the heart to open it, but it was what he''d suspected all along. It was proof of Ravi''s stupidity. It was proof his own friend had been a devil all along. It was proof that they had a cuckoo in the nest. That Nehal didn''t have an ounce of Sharma blood.


    He now wondered if Mohit was the same. It was unlikely but then what did he know? Mansi had proved her depravity, Dalpat had proved he was vile beyond imagination. It was entirely possible Mohit was the fruit of the same shameful union.


    Weariness took over him as he turned in to lay in his bed. The vultures had already gathered. They were not here for him, they were here for Aditi. This was not a time to be weak. He had to stay strong, just for a few more days. Luckily the boy had made progress. Hopefully, he''d deliver. If not, he would have to put his foot down. But until then, all his hopes were pinned on him.


    ***** *****

 24. A Precious Souvenir

    The bees were back with a vengeance, the humming buzz was unbearable. Aditi somehow made it to her room without tripping over her feet. Luckily for her, no one was awake to see her state. It would have raised suspicion, followed by uncomfortable questions that she definitely won''t be able to answer.


    Her fingers lifted to her forehead where she could still feel the touch of his warm lips. By now the warmth had spread her entire body, reaching her heart, soul, places where she didn''t dare to venture any longer.


    "Think about it, Aditi." His deep baritone had somehow assumed the texture of the velvety night. "Give me a chance. I''ll make it all better."


    In the dim light of the porch, she''d seen his face shining with the same intensity that she''d now seen so many times before. Lacing his fingers through her hair he pulled her closer. The only skin-to-skin contact came when his lips touched her brow. Warm, soft, insisting. Gentle yet firm. A thousand tiny ants had crawled on her skin, making her shiver. In reflex, she''d clutched the jacket even tighter, her only protection against the man who gave it to her.


    Biting her lip, she entered the bathroom and stripped herself bare. For the first time in ages, she stood in front of the mirror and dared to make eye contact. Soft brown eyes, clear as honey stared at her accusingly. As expected, they were full of suspicion, full of cold uncomfortable questions that she had no answer to.


    What was she doing? Why hadn''t she stopped him? Just an hour ago she''d rejected his proposal, telling him categorically she was not interested. Her reasons were valid, she was convinced she had done the right thing. And yet she had done the unthinkable, letting him kiss her as if he was breathing a new life into her. At that moment, she was sure she wouldn''t have objected if he had gone ahead and kissed her lips. And he knew it too. His smile afterward was proof of that.


    The thought gave her jitters, a surge of unease washing over her. She had no right to play with his emotions, string him along when they had no future. Her path was set, and so her actions should reflect that. And then he deserved someone better, someone, not haunted by the ghosts of their past. Someone free and happy, not encumbered with as much baggage as hers.


    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    Her eyes strayed to her thigh where the bluish-red mark of the wound sat sorely against her pale skin. Like the blot on the moon, it was the only ugly thing on her pristine body. Sighing to herself she started the shower, on its coldest setting, on full blast. It always worked to numb the pain. Tonight she hoped it would also work to numb her aching heart.


    *****


    Darsh entered his bedroom pulling his shirt over his head. His cottage was full of the muggy scent of a late summer night, but the shirt smelt of something different. There was some puke, some patches of sweat, and of course tears. Through a plethora of emotions, he also detected her. A hint of jasmine, the warmth of clear sunshine, and a soothing cool of the moonlight. Through and through her, he couldn''t get enough of it.


    Bunching the shirt he rubbed it in his face, inhaling it deeply. His luck had favored him again. He now had two of her souvenirs - the locket and this shirt.


    Not to mention the best part of the day, the covert kiss he''d stolen when she least expected. It was his cleverest move so far. It had told him what he needed to know and conveyed what he needed to convey. That he still had a reason to hope for, and she herself had given it to him.


    Watching through the dark terrace of his first-floor bedroom, Balwant Sharma had gotten the message too. That was another brilliant coincidence that''d work in his favor. Darsh smiled. The man was using him as much as he was using the man. And the wonderful thing was that they both were aware of it.


    Not only that, but that rich brat, Vivaan Raisingh was also helping him unwittingly. By now the news of his kiss must have reached him. Darsh couldn''t wait to see his next move. He should act rash, brash, whichever way he saw fit to scare Aditi. Whatever Vivaan did, it''d play in Darsh''s favor.


    Folding the shirt carefully he tucked it at the back of his wardrobe, away from the wash pile. Five days were gone, he made a cross on his mental calendar and reheated another frozen dinner. Tomorrow was Saturday, his first weekend in Palampur. And the last of his bachelorhood if Vivaan Raisingh and Balwant Sharma played their parts.


    ***** *****

 25. A Reluctant Bride

    It was early the next morning when Aditi got the news of Jeevan Bathla''s accident. He was on the way to their dairy farm when a speeding motorbike hit him from behind. Aditi rushed with Kanta Chachi to Rajpur hospital in time for the surgery to start. He had suffered multiple fractures and although the damage wasn''t life-threatening, it was clear he would be bedridden for months.


    To her surprise, Darsh Rathore was there too. It was him who''d found Jeevan Chacha lying in a roadside ditch in the early hours of the morning and got him here before it was too late.


    They hardly exchanged a word. She kept herself busy with the doctors and Kanta Chachi while he flitted around taking care of the formalities. Paperwork was completed promptly, bills were paid, and accommodations were sorted to ensure maximum comfort. He did whatever and all he could yet she ignored him completely.


    Hours passed. Sometime in the afternoon, an inspector came to take Jeevan Chacha''s statement.


    "So you were hit by a motorbike on the way to the dairy farm." The Inspector said with his customary indifference. "Did you see any faces? Any bike number?"


    "It was too dark. I couldn''t see anything properly." Chacha''s sunken voice told them he didn''t want any more trouble. A few more questions later, it was clear there were no leads. The Inspector left happily looking much relieved. All through this Kanta Chachi sat next to her husband clutching his hand. Aditi''s face clouded with shame. They all knew who did it and why, yet no one had the guts to raise their voice. They knew it was futile. There was only one solution.


    She stayed there until late until Chacha was shifted to a room. By the time she returned home, it was nearly dark. With her heart filled with weariness, she sent a text to Vivaan, then entered the Study. Her decision was made, she now only had to inform her Dadaji.


    "Good you are finally here. I have been waiting to talk to you." Her Dadaji was pacing the room like a caged lion. She could feel the heat of his agitation even from this distance. "I have decided to accept Darsh Rathore''s proposal. I am going to announce it tomorrow at the race club after-party."


    Her eyes widened.


    "But Dadaji, I can''t accept it. I have already..." She felt the ground opening at her feet. This was a disaster, she had just texted Vivaan of her decision. He would go berserk. He would...


    "You have no choice girl." Balwant thundered. "I am not going to let you fall for Vivaan''s tricks again. My decision is made, and it''s final."


    "But Dadaji, we don''t even know if he did this. The police are still investigating..."


    "The police will do nothing." Balwant seethed. "If the Inspector does find anything of importance, it''d be his family next on Vivaan''s target. So let''s not put him in this jeopardy." Muttering to himself he continued his pacing. She felt her feet go laden.


    "But Dadaji, I can''t! I..." She didn''t know what to say. Her Dadaji was seldom this high-handed. But when he was, there was no way around it. It was his shame, his guilt for that drunken mistake. He couldn''t live with it, and it looked like he certainly did not want to die with it.


    "I saw you last night with Darsh Rathore." His abrupt words came as a splash of cold water.


    Her face reddened. "It''s nothing like that, Dadaji. He was just..."


    He raised an imperious hand and she shut her mouth. "Denying it doesn''t make it false Aditi. And I''d say it''s about time you had someone in your life."


    She stared dumbstruck.


    "Tomorrow evening at the club, there would be all the club members and our usual acquaintances. Be ready. You are going to be engaged with Darsh Rathore."


    Waving her away he pulled a folder and buried himself into it. She staggered to her feet and dragged herself out.


    *****


    That night she couldn''t sleep. She sat in her bed, eyes wide open with her phone in her hand.


    One mind told her to call Vivaan and beg him to reconsider. But she knew it was unlikely, not after her recent text, not when he thought he was winning. Another mind told her to call Darsh Rathore and plead with him again. But it was impossible, she didn''t even have his number.


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    A mirthless laugh escaped her lips. She was going to be engaged to a man she met five days ago. The only thing she knew about him was his name. Well, correction, she also knew he was a very good man. He had helped her umpteen number of times. And of course, not to forget the most important thing - he was the only one who knew her secret, apart from her and her perpetrator. That made three, one more than she would have ever liked.


    The deadweight in her stomach started rolling again. Flinging the phone on her bed she got up and started pacing the room. The fear and helplessness slowly made way for anger. Why should she be in this predicament? Why must she be forced to choose when she didn''t even want to make the choice? It was her life, surely it should be her decision? It was not up to them. It was not up to Vivaan to terrorize her, force her to do his bidding. Nor was it up to her Dadaji and Darsh Rathore to pull her strings in whichever way they pleased.


    It was ridiculous. It was unfair. Vivaan and his abominable lust. Her Dadaji and his hapless guilt. And Darsh Rathore, whose thoughtless remark had started all this, and who had suddenly developed these weird feelings and decided to be her savior.


    That she had similar feelings herself was completely irrelevant, she scoffed in irritation. They were not feelings. Her jitters had a very simple explanation. She was probably just hormonal, she should know that being a doctor. He was a very handsome man, and she was affected like any other young girl, it was as simple as that.


    Her phone buzzed at that exact moment, the screen flashing with a text from an unknown number.


    "Thought you should have this now that we are going to be engaged. Love, take care."


    It took her a moment to realize who it was from. Her annoyance shot through the roof. The gall of this man! First, forcing her hand and then proclaiming his..whatever! They were all the same. Vivaan, her Dadaji, and this Darsh Rathore.


    Chewing her lips she glanced at the phone. Now she had his number yet she didn''t feel like calling. It was pointless, he wouldn''t listen. No one would listen. She had to help herself, she had to find a way that''d suit her the best.


    Making up her mind she called Zorawar, explaining to him what she needed to be done. As usual, he listened in silence, no questions asked.


    Half her job done, she walked to her wardrobe and wrenched the doors open. Rails of clothes hung there, mostly riding habits, jeans, jodhpurs with different shirts and jackets. The rest of the half was taken by simple cotton salwar kameezes she used for the clinic. It was all she needed and ever wanted to have. Her eyes flitted to the far corner where some of her mother''s sarees hung on the rail. These were the ones her Ma loved and wore on special occasions. Her hand trailed on them longingly, feeling the luxury, the soft supple texture. It was the feel of her Ma, her scent still lingered on after all these years.


    Selecting one she took it out. Her Ma had worn it on her last Diwali. The color wasn''t Aditi''s usual, but it was just what she needed for tomorrow.


    Half an hour later when she drifted to sleep, her mind was calm. It felt nice to be back in control, to take back the power of decision that was being snatched away from her. For all his love, Dadaji''s one mistake was costing her heavily. She had no wish to wager her life on another.


    *****


    Darsh lay in his bed, fidgeting with his phone. An hour had passed and it had stubbornly stayed silent. Sighing to himself he dialed her. Once, twice, the ring kept going but she didn''t answer.


    Grinding his teeth he flung it on the bed and started pacing the room. This was what he got for being nice. This was what he got for being there for her.


    Stupid, willful, headstrong, and annoyingly difficult. All these adjectives fitted perfectly when it came to Princess Sharma. The whole day today he had spent at that wretched hospital, taking care of her maid and her family. And in return, all he had got was haughty looks and silent treatment. She hadn''t even shown the courtesy of a simple thank-you. And even now, even after her grandpa''s decision, she was being pig-headed, ignoring his calls as if he was some random stranger and not her would-be fianc¨¦.


    Fianc¨¦! The word sent tiny goosebumps slithering all over his skin. In his thirty years of life, he had never come this close to being committed. It was the best news he had received in years when Balwant Rai Sharma called him this evening to announce his decision. With supreme arrogance he had told Darsh he was acceding to his proposal to marry his granddaughter. If the man was worried, he''d hidden it efficiently. Darsh didn''t mind. Everything was fine, everything was okay as long as he got his way.


    Tomorrow was the day. In the evening, at the racecourse restaurant. It was not the part of the restaurant accessible to the general public that Darsh had been, Balwant Sharma had warned him condescendingly. It was an exclusive part called the Queen''s Lounge, behind the club, bordering the river, only accessible to the richest patrons of The Royal Equestrian Club, Palampur.


    Darsh didn''t mind that either. From tomorrow onwards nothing would be too exclusive for him. Everyone will know him in fifty miles of Palampur and beyond. They will all run after him, the would-be son-in-law of the all-too-powerful Balwant Rai Sharma.


    Well, all except one, his reluctant bride-to-be, he admitted grudgingly. If he was to go by her today''s behavior, she would be all stiff-necked and huffy, pretending her best he didn''t exist.


    Smiling slightly he caressed the locket. She was cute. A bit too naive, and idealistic, a little girl who didn''t know what was good for her. Any other girl in her place would have jumped at his proposal, after all, not every day did they get a chance at a man like him. Not her though, and that made her even more special. A precious, pure white unicorn among the mere ordinary thoroughbreds. It was all the more reason for him to take control. He had to protect her from evil. And more than that, he had to protect her from herself.


    Kissing the golden heart goodnight, he tucked it away safely. Tomorrow he''d be one step closer to his destination. Then another step and he''d be there.


    ***** *****

 26. The Engagement

    It was the Sunday morning, the morning of her supposed engagement with Darsh Rathore. Like any other morning, yet completely different. Her anger from last night had subsided now, giving way to a steely determination. It was necessary to do the needful. She was going to do what her teachers had taught her all along. That a doctor sometimes had to make hard decisions. That the health of a body depended on the timely removal of rotten parts.


    She got ready and took Aron to the village green to meet the little boy, Uday, for his promised riding lesson. For that one hour, she forgot her worries, although at the back of her mind remained a strange quiet. Her Dad was there giving her frowning looks, shaking his head in disapproval. He would never have let her act so rashly. There was always a better solution, he would have said stoically. Aditi smiled. This was from a man who''d committed suicide, who hadn''t been able to find a way out of his own crippling misery. One who had left her alone, knowingly choosing grief over the love of his own daughter.


    Her Ma was there too, crying silent tears. Finding the love of your life was the greatest happiness, said her solemn face. Well, what did she know? She was lucky to have found her love when she did. Not everyone was so lucky, definitely not Aditi.


    She had her own life to live, her own choices to make. And she would make them the way she wanted to. The dead had no bearing over them, neither did the living.


    Her mind reeled with wayward thoughts as she finally started for home. The three plain-clothes policemen waiting patiently by the side road promptly fell in line behind her. They did not need to pretend otherwise. The whole Palampur today was teaming with dodgy-looking men. Half of them were Darsh Rathore''s men who''d sprouted magically from among the tourists. The boy is living up to his expectations, her Dadaji had gushed proudly.


    The rest of them were actual police officers the IG Police had deployed for the special occasion of her engagement. This was to deter any untoward incident from happening, considering the fallout this engagement will cause with the Raisinghs. Aditi had to give it was a clever move by her Dadaji. The Raisinghs won''t do anything foolish with so many on their watch.


    Alas, it wasn''t a permanent solution. The police would leave in a day and so would Darsh Rathore''s men. It all came down to her, her perfect plan to weed out the root of this problem.


    Reaching home, she sent a quick text to Vivaan.


    "I''m sorry, but I can''t go against my Dadaji''s wishes."


    Turning off her phone, she ate a light lunch, then took a deep, rejuvenating nap. She had to look fresh for tonight, as a girl in love, illuminating radiance, brimming with happiness. Her plan tonight depended on Vivaan seeing her like this, the rest of it would automatically fall in place.


    *****


    Purple evening sky reflected itself in the vast waters of river Paulomi that flowed hugging the Queen''s Lounge in its gentle curve. The river was deep here, calm and full of weeds. It got shallower as it flowed further, meandering through the rocky crags towards a plunging waterfall a mile away.


    When he was little, Balwant used to come here with his friends. Jumping in the dark waters from atop the bridge was their favorite pastime. He still remembered those days fondly. A few years later, his father had built the racecourse and developed the surrounding area. But the charm of the place still remained intact.


    Tonight it shined with a special glow. The sinking sun in the west had set waves of orange skittering through the sky. That, coupled with thousands of lights twinkling in the bushes, had made the evening even more magical.


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    The grounds of the Queen''s Lounge teamed with people- friends, business partners, industrialists, politicians, whoever could scramble here at such short notice. Many were shocked, so much that they had taken last-minute flights to be here tonight. No one wanted to miss the chance to meet his future son-in-law - Darsh Rathore, the dark horse, the unexpected winner of a race they hadn''t even realized was on. An obscure businessman from Delhi who was nudging his way past other established aspirants.


    "Where have you been hiding, young man?" Mrs. Zaweri, the profligate socialite, ogled at him unabashedly. "We all thought Vivaan Raisingh was the lucky bastard. But I must say, this comes as a pleasant surprise!"


    "Not hiding, Mrs. Zaweri, just waiting for the right moment," Darsh answered with a playful wink. "I believe one should only strike when the iron is hot."


    The group around them erupted in laughter. Mrs. Zaweri blushed furiously.


    Balwant shook his head. The boy was certainly making an impression tonight. His sleek talks and sleeker looks had the ladies swooning. To his amusement, some gents too looked rather taken. Balwant had to give the boy looked rather dapper, even a tad better than his Susheel on his own engagement day.


    "Never heard of you before. Where did you say you are from?" Randeep Dawar, Balwant''s long-term friend and lawyer, stepped forward, claiming Darsh''s attention. Being a lawyer, Dawar felt entitled to ask rude questions. Balwant shot him a warning look, but Dawar''s eyes stayed on Darsh.


    "I am from Delhi, Mr. Dawar," Darsh answered, taking it in stride. "And you are lucky we didn''t cross paths. Believe me, many people I deal with wish they''d never met me in the first place."


    Another laughter broke, louder this time to hide the startled looks. Dawar pulled Balwant aside.


    "I hope you know what you are doing. Who is this guy? Never heard of him before. I hope you''ve been careful."


    Balwant gave an imperceptible shrug. He had done his homework and vetted the boy. What was there to think? Moreover, Aditi liked the boy. That settled it for him. "He''s just what I need to deal with the Raisinghs, Dawar. You know I can''t rely on anyone."


    They continued their walk, casually roaming through the gardens sporting flutes of rare champagne. The staff at the Queens had outdone themselves, the place shined like a jewel in the crown. Lights twinkled in blooming rose bushes, the air itself felt heavy with the richness of life.


    If the boy was impressed by this extravagance, he did a splendid job of hiding it. But people around him were not so subtle. Every now and then, he saw men throwing spurious glances. The young were jealous. They had all aspired for the same honor, each of them had vied for Aditi''s hand. His golden granddaughter with her golden inheritance was a distant dream for many. Alas, nobody was able to come this far. The Raisingh reputation had seen to it.


    The older men were guarded, assessing the boy through raised glasses. He was new money and old conservatives like them did not like mixing with riff-raff.


    Well, tough for them, Balwant shrugged his shoulders. Once married to Aditi, the boy would become as good as them, or even better. He''d wield a power few of them hadn''t desired themselves. It was all jealousy, not to mention fear that he had finally found someone to replace his late son.


    He glanced at his watch, then at the magnificently carved door of the Queen''s Lounge. It was about time. Aditi should be here any minute. He saw the boy''s eyes flitting towards the door and smiled.


    "She''d be here soon. She''s coming with Zorawar." The boy nodded. His face was full of eagerness, the happiness of a man getting his heart''s wish. Balwant knew that face well. It was the face of his Susheel on his own engagement day when he had stood waiting for his Meera in this very place.


    Some other faces though...he rather wished they were not here. Like his son Ravi, who''d grabbed a bar stool too high for his height the moment he arrived and was now getting drunk. Like Ravi''s wife, Mansi, whose face looked like soured milk, no doubt wondering why this was Aditi''s engagement and not her daughter''s. And her daughter Nehal, dressed head-to-toe in a garish orangey-peachy shade, stuck out like a sore thumb in the elegantly dressed crowd.


    Not to forget his friend Dalpat, who stood in a far corner surrounded by his usual cronies. Balwant had a hard time keeping his eyes off that corner. Dalpat shouldn''t be here. He should be home in his den, planning some ghastly revenge to settle the scores. The police he had deployed were successful in containing him for tonight, but Balwant knew it was coming - brutal retribution, something he''d dreaded for ages. A sheen of perspiration appeared on his brow. As if on cue, Dalpat raised his eyes.


    His sharp gaze cut through the crowd to meet his. Balwant felt a stab of pain in his chest.


    ***** *****


    TBC...

 27. The Engagement - 2

    "Here, sit here, and drink this."


    Darsh helped the gasping man to a chair and handed him a glass of water. For a moment, he wondered if it was something serious, but the man made a valiant effort to regain his composure. Of course, this was too important an occasion to miss on account of a trivial heart attack. A look of understanding passed between the two men, and Darsh nodded his head. Patting Balwant''s shoulder, he turned in the direction from where malaise erupted like heat waves. Unsurprisingly, his gaze fell on Dalpat Raisingh, the man who''d been planning his game for years.


    "I think this is your chance, boy," Dawar''s voice whispered in his ear. "Let''s see how you handle him."


    Darsh curled his lip. Straightening his jacket, he walked to the corner where Dalpat Raisingh stood with his cronies. It was the far corner of the ground, away from the crowd, a perfect place for a quick t¨ºte-¨¤-t¨ºte in plain sight.


    "Mr. Raisingh, Darsh Rathore. Nice to make your acquaintance." Darsh extended an arm to the man who looked at him with haughty disdain. His eyes flicked to his cronies, and the small group dispersed obediently.


    "Pity, I can''t say the same for you, boy. You don''t know what you have got yourself into. If I were you, I''d scuttle away while I still can and save my hide." Dalpat Raisingh''s gray eyes were full of malicious promise. Darsh raised his brow.


    "I know full well what I am up to, Mr. Raisingh. It''s you who needs to refresh your memory." Smiling slightly, he pulled his phone out to open a recent email. Attached to it was a zip file, quite large this time. Obviously, Dalpat Raisingh had a much more interesting life compared to Aditi.


    "I have a little reminder for you if you care to look." Opening the file, he flicked through it, casually stopping at random pages. With each click, Dalpat''s face lost more color. These were photos from his younger days when he jet-setted around the country each time with a new girl in tow. Each picture was followed by medical reports - some reported abortions, some recorded births. The last two were death certificates. The girls had died under mysterious circumstances.


    "I must say you''ve lived quite a colorful life, Mr. Raisingh. Some say every racecourse in this country has a Raisingh bastard. Imagine if they know who sired them, you''ll be inundated with paternity suits and compensation claims."


    Dalpat licked his lips. Darsh carried on, flicking to the next folder.


    "But then I suppose they would be an improvement on your legitimate son, Kabir. I hear he is quite fond of rave parties. An alcoholic, fraud, drug-addled, and prone to shag anyone with two legs - my detective''s words, not mine." He raised his palms, stepping back in mock defense. Dalpat turned puce.


    "That''s enough! You''ll pay for this! You don''t know what I can do, boy. If I were you..."


    "And your grandson...," Darsh carried on with utmost boredom. "The less said about him, the better. He shares all afflictions of you and Kabir, I''d prefer not to repeat them. To top it all..."


    "I can dig into your past, boy. Don''t think I don''t know how insects like you worm their way up from their filthy gutters. I know what you did. I know what.." Dalpat spluttered helplessly.


    Darsh shrugged.


    "My past is an open book, Mr. Raisingh. Nothing is hidden. Balwant Sharma already knows whatever there is to know. It''s your past I am concerned about. Think what I can do with it."


    Dalpat watched ashen-faced, body shaking with rage. His past was an open book too, but he had never seen in a literal way as he was presented with tonight. That folder had the potential to ruin his family. Never before was he threatened this way, that too by a mere boy, a filthy mongrel from the back alleys of Delhi who''d somehow wormed his way here to spoil his plans. Taking a quivering step forward, he stared at the handsome face. Dark eyes, dark hair gelled back slickly, dark suit with not a speck of dust, the boy looked impeccable. It was impossible. No one was this spotless, and if they were, he had ways to deal with them.


    "You have just invited your death, boy. Wait and watch."


    "Careful Mr. Raisingh. That threat can work both ways."


    "I hear you have a younger brother? And a mother too who is alone at the moment in Delhi?"


    "And you have your spoiled son alone in Delhi. Well, not alone, he is at a party as we speak, enjoying with his... friends." Darsh tapped his mobile to open a video, available for his pleasure, live, curtsey his agent. It showed Kabir with another man. "If you wish, I can ask my agent to livestream this on social media. Or better yet, I can ask him to do something else. Surely he can make it look like Kabir slipped off a staircase, or got in a car accident. Whichever way you prefer Mr. Raisingh, I don''t mind."


    "You...dog! You bastard!! You''ll pay for this!" Dalpat scrambled for words. Darsh looked on calmly, not in the least ruffled. His mother was safe. He always had people watching over her. In his line of business, he couldn''t afford to be lax. And his brother was safe too, well, as safe as he could be in that hospital bed.


    He took a step closer, and they stood face to face, nearly nose to nose. His voice dropped a few decibels to the level of the soft music playing in the background.


    "If I were you, Mr. Raisingh, I''d take care of Vivaan. He has a habit of getting in trouble. I hear in school he was a notorious bully, they even called him violent, and mentally unstable. Such people need watching Mr. Raisingh. For their own safety, of course, nothing else."


    The words were delivered softly, with the accuracy of a sharpshooter.


    Dalpat''s mouth hung open. "You dare! You dare to..."


    "If I were you, I''d also leave this party, Mr. Raisingh. And leave Palampur first thing in the morning. I''d do everything in my power to save my son and grandson. I''d not like to spend the rest of my days mourning in loneliness as Balwant Sharma does for his son." He paused for effect, then shrugged his shoulders. "But of course, I am not you. So you are free to do as you please. Take care Mr. Raisingh. Have a good night."


    Giving a polite nod, he turned and walked back to where Balwant Sharma sat with his lawyer friend. Behind him, Dalpat Raisingh staggered towards the door.


    "He is leaving!" Dawar sounded incredulous. Balwant smiled with relief flooding his face.


    Darsh gave a shrug. It was too soon to rejoice. His trouble was far from over. In fact, it had just begun, Aditi had just entered through the door.


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    *****


    A sudden hush fell over the crowd as every eye was drawn to the door. The sentries at the entrance of Queen''s Lounge hung their heads in deference. Aditi entered, as usual taking controlled steps, owning the place and people by mere presence. The crowd gawked as if they''d seen a ghost.


    And a ghost she was, Darsh sighed as he walked towards her. Her mother''s ghost. Insanely beautiful, obscenely rich, and a hundred times more alluring in her current getup. And her father''s ghost, with her dazzling smile and charisma, he remembered it clearly from the locket. People around here tonight knew it well too. Balwant Sharma looked dazed with pride, the others just stared, speechless in awe.


    He himself was stupefied, such was her aura tonight. She was out for a kill, he could tell it in a single glance. Reaching closer he stood at the bottom of the stairwell that brought her down to him to the lush lawn. She gave a dazzling smile and glided down as if a queen descending from her throne. With her each step, his heart beat faster, his blood pumped in a wild rush. Her red chiffon rustled tantalizingly, the lace blouse hugging her curves exposed just enough skin to drive him crazy.


    Beautiful was not the word, nor was mesmerizing. He wondered what to say, then decided to stick to the basics.


    "You are late." His voice was quiet as she finally reached the last step, and stood head to head, matching his height. Their gazes met, and the golden pools of her eyes crinkled with a soft smile.


    "I am sorry, I needed time to get ready for tonight."


    Holding his gaze, she took the final step down onto the lawn when her heel twisted in the grass. She lurched sideways nearly crashing into him when his arm went around her bare waist to steady her up.


    Heat rushed through his veins as he tried to hold himself. There was that eerie feeling again of being too close to his death.


    "Careful." His voice went quieter if it was possible. She clung to him for a moment, before letting go.


    "I''m sorry. I think it''s just my leg playing up."


    Another eye lock, this time full of concern. She patted his arm reassuringly.


    "Well, well, well! Isn''t it the most loved-up couple tonight!" A high-pitched voice broke their trance. Aditi turned startled at the interruption.


    "Nothing like that, Mrs. Zaweri." She smiled coyly as a pink blush crept up her cheeks. "I think I caught my sandals in my saree."


    Mrs. Zaweri gave a knowing wink. Aditi blushed deeper. Darsh pursed his lips, trying to hide his confusion. Luckily, Balwant Rai Sharma came to his rescue. Obviously, the man couldn''t wait to get this over.


    They were ushered to a podium where they exchanged rings. His was a platinum band encrusted with tiny diamonds. It once belonged to his Susheel, Balwant told him proudly. Hers was a delicate golden ring adorned with an emerald-cut diamond. He had ordered it especially, making his jeweler rush from Mumbai to deliver it in person. It matched perfectly with the rest of her jewelry, the diamond bracelets on her wrists, the pear drops dangling her ears. The delicate silver chain that hugged her tiny waist, laden with pearls, secured on a side with a rare solitaire.


    Feeling unusually hot, he wrenched his eyes away from that waist. They landed on her slender neck and he gave a wry sigh. For all her glorious splendor, her neck was bare. She still hadn''t found anything to fill her void.


    "Let''s have a dance!!" The crowd cheered in ecstasy as he held her possessively. They were ceremoniously led to a glittering dance floor.


    She gave a dazzling smile and offered him her hand. He looked wary but took it readily. The music started slow and sensuous, they floated together in tandem. The dance with her was nothing like he had danced before. It was hard to tell who was leading whom. She swayed in his arms as if she couldn''t get enough of him, utterly uninhibited as if they were the only ones on the floor. The touch of her bare waist under his palm was driving him crazy. He moved to her rhythm, barely able to think. She looked equally flushed, her honey eyes melting every time their gazes met.


    After a while, they paused for a drink, bodies flushed, chests heaving with exertion. Her eyes darted around the crowd as if in search of someone.


    "You are up to something." He commented dryly.


    She raised a shapely eyebrow. "Why do you think so?"


    "Because I know you." He said simply.


    "You don''t know me enough, it''s been just a week." She said off-handedly.


    He felt himself heating. "A moment is enough when it''s the right person."


    "And how do you know it''s the right person?" Her eyes looked unsure.


    "You know when you know," he pursed his lips. "It was love at first sight for your parents, too."


    Her face flamed. She lowered her eyes and focussed on her glass.


    He watched as she drank deeply, her translucent neck moving to the rhythm of the water. Her chest heaved with exhaustion, her dewy skin was flushed red. She picked a little tissue and dabbed at her wet lips before lifting her thick hair up to dab at her neck. He felt his hackles raise.


    This was unfair. She was so close, so damn close, yet so far. The ring was not enough. How he was dying to touch her, to kiss those luscious lips senseless. To mark that creamy neck, to mark her as his own. Yet he couldn''t do it. Hell, he wouldn''t do it unless he wanted to screw his chances. Frustration coursed his veins as he grabbed her wrist. She looked at him startled. "What happened?.."


    Her question was drowned in the noise of the bustling crowd. He marched her to a path that took them away from the crowd to an unused part of the garden. It was quieter here, the lights were dimmed. The bushes were thicker, laden with fragrant roses. He felt his desire stirring.


    They stopped under a lamppost with shadows pooling at their feet. She looked at him puzzled, then back to the path in the direction of the party.


    "What is the matter? We can''t be here like this.."


    "Can''t we?" He asked scathingly. "Why not? We are officially engaged now, I think we have every right to be here."


    She paled. "Look..please.."


    He twisted her arm behind her to pull her close. She crashed into him, gasping in surprise as her soft body collided with his hard muscles. He bent forward his face nuzzling into her hair, filling himself with her heady scent. The infinite reserves of his patience suddenly dried up, filling him with an insane hunger he hadn''t felt in ages.


    "What are you doing? Leave me alone.." She tried to break free, but he kept his grip. Why would he let her go? She was his. From this day onward, She. Was. His!!


    "Say my name!" He growled, his craze shining through his eyes.


    She looked annoyed and wriggled again. "What? Don''t be silly. Let me go.."


    He used his other hand to grab her neck, turning her head to face him. She took one look at him and stopped moving.


    "I said, call me by my name, Aditi." He twirled a loose ringlet around his index finger, making her shiver. "I''ve noticed you avoid it as much as possible."


    She flushed, trying to get her bearings. "It''s nothing like that. I just..."


    "Then say it!" Tightening his grip he removed the last bit of air between them. His hot breath fanned her cheek telling her his intent. She braced her palms on his shoulder in a futile attempt to keep him at bay.


    "What''s gone into you? Why are you behaving like this?" Her questions came softly, eyes disarmingly innocent.


    He gazed at her longingly as a stinging pain stabbed his heart.


    She was faking. He had observed her for long enough to know it. There was something fishy, he could just smell it. Clenching his jaw he dug his fingers into the delicious curve of her waist. She flinched, but he was not bothered. She would not play with him. He was not someone to be trifled with.


    "I am a patient man Aditi. I have been honest in my intentions. But that doesn''t mean you can fool me. I know you are planning something. And if you decide to trick me, Aditi, let me warn you the consequences would be severe."


    She stared at him through her lashes, their shadows played hide-and-seek on her pink cheeks. Her eyes descended to his lips, then back to his eyes.


    "If you don''t trust me why are you marrying me?" She asked accusingly, the honey in her eyes melting to fiery gold. He pursed his lips.


    "My name, Aditi. I''m not in the mood for arguments."


    She raised a gentle hand to cup his cheek. For a fleeting second, she looked lost; a shadow crossed her eyes muddying the honey pools. Then they cleared as she took a deep, bracing breath.


    "Kiss me, Darsh."


    His heart thudded. It took a moment for him to realize what she said. And once he realized, he couldn''t hold back. His mouth descended on hers in a frenzy, he could hardly think straight. The soft touch, supple, sweet as honey filled his heart to the brim. He sucked, bit, pushed, pulled, and filled himself with her essence. It was still not enough, his restless heart yearned for more.


    Gathering her in his arms, he stumbled backward, his back hitting the lamppost. The next few moments were the best of his life as he took his fill. The lips, the body, the scent, the woman. He just couldn''t get enough of her.


    A rustle of leaves in the nearby bushes made her pull back in shock. He was barely back to his senses when he saw her rushing back on the path.


    ***** *****

 28. The Perfect Solution

    "Aditi, wait!"


    Darsh called in alarm, rushing after Aditi on the path. Her slender form soon disappeared behind the bushes and he stopped for a breath. Running an uneasy hand through his hair, he cursed himself for his lapse. For all his infinite patience, it hasn''t taken him a moment to lose it.


    That kiss! He had experienced nothing like it. His breath was heavy with her scent, his mouth full of her taste. His body shivered with anticipation, his entire existence seemed to be overwhelmed. This was a feeling too foreign to him. It was a feeling of losing control, utterly and irrevocably, like a rolling stone gathering momentum as it fell, deeply and helplessly towards certain doom.


    Swallowing an uneasy lump, he started again when his phone buzzed. It was Rajeev.


    "So I guess congratulations are in order. I take it you are engaged by now?" Rajeev''s voice was light, but Darsh could sense his disapproval. He was not happy that his partner had taken a month-long holiday when he was left alone to look after the business. Neither was he happy that his friend had suddenly got engaged to an unknown girl, without even informing his nears and dears.


    "Yes, it''s done, Rajeev. And I''ll inform everyone when the time is right," Darsh answered tightly. "How is Ma? You haven''t told her anything, right?"


    "Of course not! Why would I tell her about her only son''s engagement? Mothers have no right to interfere in such matters, right?" Rajeev''s voice thrummed with anger. Darsh sighed.


    He had debated it for a while, but it was a no-brainer. Vicki was already on his deathbed. His Ma will not take it lightly when she knew the danger he had gotten himself into. With police swarming everywhere in Palampur, it was just not feasible to bring her here. Moreover, the people at tonight''s party were not exactly welcoming. His Ma was a proud woman, she wouldn''t have liked the snide remarks or the snooty looks. And last but not the least, it was Aditi. It wouldn''t take his mother a minute to notice something was amiss. All in all, it was best to keep this engagement secret. There would be time to explain to her later, that is - if his fianc¨¦e behaved and didn''t do anything to spoil his plans.


    His eyes went to the path Aditi had taken a while ago. He could no longer see her, she seemed to have taken some short-cut. "Rajeev, I need to go. I''ll talk to you later."


    Rajeev sighed. "I hope you know what you''re doing, Darsh. Take care."


    Humming to him, Darsh cut the call. Rushing on the path, he reached the party. She was not there. Making an about-turn, he went back. He had to find her before it was too late. He had a weird feeling this was something to do with Vivaan Raisingh.


    *****


    Aditi rushed on the path back to the party. Her face was flushed crimson, lips stung raw. Her body spasmed with unknown sensations, the kiss had left her feeling rather...disheveled.


    She wondered why she was feeling this way. It wasn''t like it was her first kiss, he wasn''t the first man who''d touched her. All those first experiences were stolen from her, snatched, robbed, lost forever. Try as she might she would never have them back. It might have been different in some other life but not in this one. In this life, she was stuck with herself, with her taint, her wound, her demons, her shadows keeping her company.


    Her stomach roiled as her eyes stung, the ache in her heart becoming unbearable. She stopped for a breath when she heard Darsh''s worried voice calling. Startled, she straightened herself and took a quick left turn into the woods towards her destination. It was ahead, not behind. She had no business to stop here for second thoughts.


    A few more turns through the dense trees, and she reached an old bridge - rusty and crumbling with age. About half a mile away was another bridge, bigger and better, built by her great grandfather some sixty years ago. People used it regularly while this one had fallen in disuse and disrepair. No one came here, except for thieves and miscreants. In short, a perfect place for the next step of her plan. The final step before she''d be free.


    "Think again, you still have time!" A voice called through the pulsing night as she waded her way through clumps of reeds a smell of age-old decay assaulting her senses. She didn''t know who it was. It sounded like her mother, but it could be her own conscience.


    "You just got the taste of happiness. You just saw what your life could be. Take it while you can! Don''t throw away your chance at love!"


    Shaking uncontrollably she stepped on the slippery decking and walked towards the center. It was too late now. He was near. She could already feel him in the air.


    The silence stretched for a moment which itself stretched like an eternity. She waited with bated breath, her damp palms bracing on the broken rail, her wet eyes still on the black water flowing under the bridge.


    Three, two, one...she whispered to the rustling wind. A bridge creaked in answer, a heavy footstep stepping on it, making its presence known.


    "Looks like you didn''t enjoy that kiss much," Vivaan''s voice cut through the dark.


    Bracing herself, she turned around.


    Her childhood friend stood in front of her giving her an icy look. In the dim light of a lone lamppost, she couldn''t see his face clearly. This time it was she who gave him a once over. He was, as usual, impeccably dressed, but her sharp eyes noticed patches of drink on his shirt.


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    He stepped closer, as expected, his eyes traversed her body, undressing her leisurely. She was keenly aware of her dislodged pallu. It was off by inches, but she didn''t bother to straighten it.


    "Never seen you wearing red before. It suits you." He said after a while, his gaze veering to her bare midriff, then to her swollen lips.


    She gave a little smile.


    "This is Ma''s saree. I thought it''d be apt to wear it tonight."


    "Yeah. Tonight is...special." He dipped his head in acknowledgment. "I lost you. You got engaged to Darsh Rathore. Congratulations."


    She pursed her lips.


    "Look, I''m sorry. I know I texted you and then this happened. But I couldn''t go against Dadaji."


    He shrugged.


    "It''s okay. What''s done is done." Taking a step forward he came closer. His hand lifted to touch her cheek but she flinched back.


    He stilled, then smiled.


    "So. What made you change your mind? I am curious. One moment you were texting me, accepting my proposal. The next moment you decided to go with Darsh Rathore. What brought this sudden change?"


    "Why, it was you, of course!" Her nostrils flared. "Your callous behavior forced Dadaji to make this decision. Or did you expect to get off scot-free after Jeevan Chacha''s accident?"


    "Why do you think it was me?" He asked calmly tilting his head. "Don''t you think it''s a bit too much of a coincidence that he had the accident the very next day I threatened you? It was Darsh Rathore who took him to the hospital. And surprise, surprise! I get the blame and he gets you."


    "That''s enough, Vivaan! I won''t stand here and let you slander my fianc¨¦." She gritted her teeth. Some people just liked to live in their own sweet bubble. It was just like him to blame Darsh for his own despicable deed. "Darsh is honest, kind, a man of integrity. Unlike you, he does not go around hurting people for amusement. You are nowhere in comparison, I won''t even talk about you two in the same breath!"


    He raised his eyebrows.


    "Oooh! Sounds like someone is in looovee!" He burst into his signature maniacal laughter. Her face paled.


    "You are in love, that too with a man you met a week ago! Bravo, Aditi!! And here I am waiting for my whole life, begging for your attention but you won''t even spare me a look!" He continued his hysterics, hiccuping in between as tears of insane mirth rolled his eyes. Her face lost color as she listened to his meaningless stupidity.


    "My my, you are so gullible, Aditi! So naive...so stupid! No wonder he has fooled you so easily." He lurched forward while laughing harder. She took a step back waiting for his madness to peak. It was near now, he was showing the signs. Her pulse started racing.


    "Think whatever you want, Vivaan. I don''t care. And yes, a week was enough for me to fall in love, Darsh is that kind of man. You could never achieve it in a million years."


    His eyes darkened. "Really? Then why didn''t you enjoy it?"


    She frowned. "What are you talking about?"


    "I am talking about the kiss, sweetheart. Why didn''t you enjoy the kiss if you are so much in love?"


    She ground her teeth, her heart thudding in irritation. Or was it anticipation? She couldn''t tell. Forcing herself to relax, she gave a coy smile. Now was the time she was waiting for.


    "I did enjoy the kiss, Vivaan. In fact, I have enjoyed much more than that." She gave a suggestive smile. Vivaan''s eyes flashed dangerously.


    "You were right, that night in the Sarai was the first time we came close. It''s hard to control with a man like him, won''t you agree? And now that we are engaged, we have all the freedom in the world."


    "You bitch! You dare..!" He surged forward with mad intensity and pushed her to the rail, his claw-like hand grabbing her thigh. Through the delicate fabric of her saree, she felt his nails digging into her wound. A piteous whimper escaped her lips as her skin slowly ripped apart. She tried to push him, but couldn''t move.


    "It hurts, does it?" He dug deeper, his long fingers slowly twisting in her flesh. She felt a scream stuck in her throat.


    "I am sorry Aditi, but you deserve every bit of this. This is how I am feeling right now. This is your punishment for making me feel that way."


    Pushing her further back, he pulled a piece of wood off the broken railing. The next she knew, he had plunged it right into her thigh. Her mind began to fog as dark shadows swooped out of its depth to grab her throat. "No..please!" She choked the words out but couldn''t hear her own voice.


    "Sorry Aditi, but I can''t. You can''t do this to me. You were promised to me. You are mine...You can''t.." His eyes zoned out as he blabbered incoherently. The next five minutes were a blur of panic and pain as she struggled for her life, her dignity. Her saree was ripped off and flew over the railing. She tried to bite, kick, punch, scratch, do whatever to save herself. Her eyes streamed and her head swirled. Her body threatened to go limp on her.


    The last she remembered she kicked hard, making a final effort to push him away. The age-old railing broke with a loud crash. A scream rent the air as Vivaan tumbled into the black water from a height of twenty feet. She watched stupefied as he crashed into a rock, then slid like a broken doll into the gushing water.


    *****


    When he was a child, her Dadaji used to come here with his friends. Jumping in the water from atop of the bridge was their favorite pastime. It had only stopped when one day a boy crashed on that rock. A few hours later, his broken and lifeless body was found down the waterfall. Vivaan too would be there soon, she was sure of that. The current was fast here, and the night was still young. There was no rush, no rush at all.


    Aditi stared down, dazed and fatigued, yet now inexplicably calm. Under the bridge, in the reeds on the riverbank, a light flashed thrice. Emerging out of his hiding place, Zorawar glanced at her then turned and walked along the riverbank following Vivaan''s path. His instructions were to make sure Vivaan didn''t get out. He had to stand guard, make sure Vivaan met his natural death if he was not already dead.


    She knew she could rely on Zorawar. He had never questioned her orders. Not on that fateful night when she''d lain in that cold bathtub, defiled and desecrated, demanding he get rid of those vile boys. Nor tonight, when Vivaan had repeated the offense. Zorawar was only too willing to oblige. One less Raisingh and the world was better for it.


    Relief flooded her mind as her body began to shut down. It was her master plan that she had executed with utmost precision. An act of self-defense, a crime committed while saving herself from a brute. A minimally invasive procedure with maximum benefit. Aditi smiled. Her professors had always said she had all the hallmarks of an excellent surgeon. Tonight she agreed with them, maybe she would consider the profession after all.


    Her head swirled as nausea took over, making her violently sick. Doubling over, she vomited her heart out, hoping this was the last time, relieved that it was finally over. The wooden bridge behind creaked once again as another man rushed to her. Pulling her away from the broken railing he threw his jacket over her and hugged her close.


    "Is that...Vivaan Raisingh?" Darsh''s face turned ashen as his eyes zeroed on a lifeless form floating away in the dark.


    She gazed at his handsome face and smiled. "Take me home, Darsh," she said, dizzy with relief.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 30.

    The ride home was uneventful. Aditi slept. Darsh drove in silence, his mind whirring with emotions, trying to make sense of the eventful night. The woman beside him, who he claimed to understand well, was more complicated than he thought. A pure white unicorn, he''d believed her to be. But he''d forgotten unicorns were dangerous creatures, mystical and deadly, naturally equipped with lethal horns to defend themselves when threatened.


    Parking his Range Rover at the porch of Sharma House, he got out to find her still asleep. Her head lolled aside, her face was calm as if in a dreamy sleep. He tried to shake her awake when he realized she was burning with fever. Pursing his lips, he gathered her in his arms and turned, only to find Mohit racing down the front steps.


    "Di! What happened to her?" Mohit asked, panic-stricken.


    "She''s unconscious. Help me take her to her room. We need to call Dr. Wadhwa. Is there any woman in the house?" His questions came rapidly, making Mohit frown in confusion. Then he noticed the blood dripping down his sister.


    "What the...?" His eyes widened in shock.


    "It''s her wound. I think it''s opened up." Darsh let out a strangled sigh.


    His irritation was building up. So this was her plan to free herself - to risk herself, to offer herself as bait and make the kill. Now she didn''t need rescuing, nor did she have to agree to an unwanted marriage. The engagement was fake. He could see her breaking it the next morning. The ring he''d so lovingly chosen would be returned to him unceremoniously and the one he''d acquired after so much meticulous planning would have to be given up.


    It was unfair. He didn''t deserve this. He didn''t deserve to be treated like the utter moron that he clearly was.


    "Now hurry up and help me, don''t just stand staring!" He lashed at a confused Mohit and rushed up the steps. The boy looked at him bewildered, then did as he was told.


    Muscles stretched taut with tension he carried her three stories up to her luxurious bedroom. If it was up to him, he would have carried her all the way to Delhi and locked her in the basement of his house for the rest of her life. His blood bubbled with insane anger. She had used him. She had used him as a trophy fiance to provoke Vivaan Raisingh. The coy smiles, the passionate dance, it was all just a show. The kiss too was probably a last-minute improvisation, a spur-of-a-moment idea sprouted in her devious brain to rile Vivaan further up. A red-white fury burned his throat souring his mouth. The taste of the magical kiss he''d savored a while ago somehow turned to ashes.


    Kicking the door open, he laid her on the bed. Soon the lady in charge of the kitchen was woken up to tend to her. Sometime later Dr. Wadhwa arrived, and they left him to do his job. Outside the room, Darsh paced ashen-faced while Mohit stood with brows scrunched, eyeing him patiently.


    "So what happened? How did Di get hurt?"


    Darsh gave Mohit a look. The boy was young, hardly twenty. He wondered if he could be trusted with the story. The story in which his best friend had tried to molest his sister and was killed. Or the story in which his sister had feigned self-defense and killed his best friend. Darsh sighed. He could see there was no other way. He had to lie, and it had to be a convincing lie, maybe he''d be better off with the one the family already believed to be true.


    "It was dark. She hurt herself on a broken branch."


    Mohit pursed his lips, then went silent. He had seen the two of them escaping in the gardens. That was before he''d had enough of the party and decided to head home.


    They waited patiently. After nearly half an hour, Dr. Wadhwa came out, wiping his sweaty brow, his weathered face drawn with worry.


    "I have fixed the sutures, but I think there might be an infection in the wound. I think it''s best to take her to Rajpur."


    Darsh listened rigidly, his face hardly showing any emotion. Inside his pockets, his fingers curled into tight fists, his ring scratching against the cold metal heart.


    "How bad is it?"


    "Quite." The doctor frowned. "It looks like it''s been neglected for too long. I am surprised, I didn''t expect such a shoddy job from Aditi."


    "Has she woken up? Can I talk to her?" Mohit asked, the strain of the situation clearly showing on his young face.


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    The doctor shook his head. "I think it''s best to let her rest."


    Shoulders slumping in disappointment, Mohit turned to leave. Darsh stormed away, his temper getting the better of him.


    *****


    That night Darsh stayed in a guest room of the Sharma Residence. Sometime later, Balwant Sharma returned with his lawyer friend. The two men had a quiet chat in the lounge before Dawar too retired to the guest room next to his.


    Later in the night, Mansi returned with her daughter and rushed her to her room before her frantic sobs woke anyone up. Nidhi was acting weirdly. She had spotted Vivaan at the party and followed him into the garden, hoping to talk to him. Now that Aditi was out of the way, the girl was ecstatic that she finally had a chance with Vivaan. An hour ago she had returned, frazzled and frightened, and had collapsed into her mother''s lap, sobbing helplessly.


    Mansi patted her daughter''s brow as she tucked her in. The girl was silly to pine after that violent monster. Mansi couldn''t believe he was lurking around when Aditi was getting engaged. She had to be careful. Vivaan Raisingh was still a no-go and now Dalpat Raisingh too. After tonight''s engagement, she too would have to find a new benefactor to keep up with her husband''s debts.


    *****


    The next morning was quiet. Aditi found herself in Rajpur hospital recovering in a post-op room. They had done a small surgery to remove the infected tissue from her thigh. They had also removed tiny glass pieces that were stuck deep in the flesh, making it impossible to heal properly.


    Aditi sighed. She had never taken a proper look at that wound. Sewing it shut, making it look better, was always her priority. Delving deeper than necessary might awake something nasty. It was better it stayed buried. Whatever was inside had to stay inside, she was getting used to it anyway.


    "You are a bad doctor." A deep voice rumbled in her head. She smiled. Yes, he would definitely say that. Maybe she was a bad doctor, at least for herself.


    She closed her eyes and tried to lie quietly. She couldn''t move a muscle even if she wanted to. Her brain was numb, her body felt like lead under the effect of anesthesia. Kanta Chachi, who''d rushed to be by her side, eyed her quietly. There was no conversation. The woman was too perceptive to ask unnecessary questions.


    The room was far from quiet though. Hushed voices emitted from a corner as she turned her head to them. Darsh stood near her Dadaji, who sat in a plastic chair looking unusually pale. Mohit, too, somehow had joined them, making her wonder what the three of them were cooking. Whatever it was, she couldn''t care less. She had taken care of the biggest problem of her life and now all she wanted was to rest.


    A weary sigh escaped her lip. The trio of men stopped talking and glanced in her direction.


    Darsh broke from the group and walked towards her his dark eyes locked on her. His broad frame filled her vision, for a moment there was no space for others.


    "Feeling better?" He asked, placing a proprietary hand on her brow. She felt her cheeks heating. Neither her Dadaji nor Mohit batted an eyelid. Nor did Kanta Chachi, who blushed herself and scurried out of the room on the pretext of getting tea.


    He sat on the bed and straightened her covers. She noticed her father''s ring sitting snugly on his finger.


    "It suits me, doesn''t it?" He said with a hint of pride giving the ring a little twirl, then reached for her cold hand with his large, warm one. Lifting it to his face he examined her delicate ring. The object was light, yet heavy enough to make its presence known. Probably just the effect its buyer intended her to feel.


    "And this one suits you perfectly." He bent down and pecked her finger before tucking her hand under the blanket. She felt herself flushing.


    She wished she knew what was going through his mind. Surely he knew the engagement was not going to last? He should be furious, he should be upset, resentful, angry, even disgusted! He had every right after what she''d done last night. Hell, for a moment she''d even hoped he would break the engagement himself. But here he was, looking cool as a cucumber as if nothing was amiss.


    Maybe he was biding his time. He would show his hand once the others were out of the room. The thought made her feel unbearably weary. She turned her face away when his silent voice rumbled through her ears.


    "They found him. He is in this hospital." He kept his tone as light as possible.


    Her eyes widened. "Is he...?"


    "Alive. The doctors are operating." She stared speechless, her face turning ashen. He continued conversationally. "The police are here, they might want your statement. For the record, you were with me in the garden, doing whatever we were supposed to do. That''s the alibi for both of us. I have recovered your saree from the river and my man has cleared the vomit. They have nothing to go on."


    Her face reddened, her mouth fell open. "There was no need. It was self-defense..."


    His eyes flashed. "It was cold-blooded, pre-planned." Murder. He didn''t say it, but she heard it anyway. Her eyes teared up.


    "I did what I had to do. You have no right to judge..."


    "You should have left it to me, Aditi. I am your future husband."


    "Not for long." She snapped, forgetting they were not alone. "I don''t want this, I was forced..." She tried to lift her arm to pull off his ring, but it was too much of an effort for her sedated body. Her Dadaji threw her a worried glance.


    Darsh patted her cheek and wiped her tear. "Behave. Dadaji is already looking peaky. Dalpat Raisingh nearly gave him a heart attack last night. Don''t make it harder for him."


    She looked aghast. "What?... How?"


    "We can discuss it later." He shrugged. "Meanwhile, just remember, we use the same ruse for your wound that you used before. You grazed it last night against a branch."


    "But..." She sank in her pillows, the air in her lungs suddenly gushing out. The relief she''d felt last night vanished, the dead weight firmly back in her queasy stomach.


    "Please..." Her lips quivered. "I can''t..."


    "Hush. They are coming." He stood aside and straightened his jacket, taking his usual stance with feet wide apart, hands stuffed in pockets. She swallowed an uneasy lump as IG Police entered, along with Inspector Tiwari.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 31.

    There were a hundred ways to wiggle out of this, her agitated brain told her as IG Police Shekhawat entered with Inspector Tiwari. For one, she could tell the truth that she had pushed Vivaan in self-defense. Either that or the real truth, that she had set a trap as Vivaan was becoming too dangerous a hazard and because of it, she was being pressurised into an unwanted marriage. IG Shekhawat was her Dad''s schoolmate. It wasn''t hard to convince him. It could be done if done right, her Dadaji won''t be any wiser and the matter would be settled without causing him further heartache. Her heartbeat raised as she pondered the possibility when her fianc¨¦''s firm hand pressed on her shoulder.


    "Don''t even think about it," his dark eyes warned her. "A slight mistake and your Dadaji would pay the price."


    Aditi sighed. What followed that was a farce. She was hardly asked any questions. Darsh stood next to her to make sure she was not unnecessarily hassled, but he need not have worried. The police showed no intention of doing anything of that sort.


    Uncle Shekhawat looked more interested in congratulating the new couple rather than asking troublesome questions to put them on the spot. Inspector Tiwari, too, looked relieved, as he was finally rid of a menace called Vivaan Raisingh. He had brought a pre-written statement repeating everything her fianc¨¦ told her minutes ago. She gave it a cursory look before putting her signatures to make it official. It was all sorted, done, and dusted in less than five minutes. And with that, her fate was sealed. That statement meant she and Darsh were an intimate couple. She had to stay engaged, and eventually, get married too, there was now no way out of it.


    "How is Vivaan?" she asked, feeling unusually low.


    "Not very good," Uncle Shekhawat curled his lips. "There''s some serious spinal damage that''s rendered him completely paralyzed. Apparently, jumping on a rock from a height of twenty feet was not a very good idea."


    Her eyes flicked to Darsh, who gave her a tiny nod. A theory was making rounds that a heartbroken Vivaan Raisingh had tried to commit suicide after losing the love of his life. Aditi shook her head. In all probability, that ridiculous rumor was started by her own ingenious fianc¨¦.


    "What do the doctors say? Will he.. recover?" She asked a question she had been holding for a long time.


    "It''s hard to say. The doctors here at least don''t think so. They have advised to move him to Delhi or some other place for advanced treatment."


    More like the doctors too couldn''t wait to get rid of Vivaan, Aditi thought wryly.


    "And Grandpa Raisingh? How is he taking it?" Her lips quivered as she made her final callous inquiry. She knew Grandpa Raisingh very well. A shrewd man like him would never believe in the suicide theory. Vivaan was his only grandson and Grandpa Raisingh won''t rest until he found the real culprit.


    "He... has a theory." The IG Police faltered as he gave her an appraising glance. "He has accused your fianc¨¦ of foul play. It seems they had an altercation last night at the party. Dalpat Raisingh has claimed that Darsh threatened him with Vivaan''s life."


    The temperature in the room suddenly dropped a couple of degrees. Aditi sat in stunned silence before a wave of panic shot through her heart. Pushing herself up on her elbows, she sat up straight, her body protesting pain as the final traces of anesthesia wore off. Her eyes narrowed to slits as they trained themselves on the surprised face of the IG Police.


    "Grandpa Raisingh is lying!" she nearly screeched as her face turned a blotchy red. "Darsh was with me the whole time. It was I who..."


    "Aditi! Calm down," Darsh''s warning voice was suddenly in her ear, but she somehow didn''t hear it. A white-hot nerve popped on her clammy forehead. The IG police looked taken aback, along with his Inspector who suddenly looked pale.


    "Darsh is innocent!" She continued hotly. "It was, in fact, me who..."


    "I say calm down, Aditi!" This time the voice was louder. "Relax! I have your alibi, they can''t accuse me of anything."


    He sat next to her with a tight arm around her shoulder, holding her in place. His firm fingers dug into her soft flesh, gently warning her not to say a word further.


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    She gave him a furious look, then realized what she was about to blurt out. A bolt of renewed panic shot through her heart when he cupped her cheek with his warm hand.


    "Hush...," his soft voice murmured caressing her gently. It was meant only for her, she knew only she could hear it. Her pupils slowly dilated as his gaze pinned on hers. "Everything is fine! There''s no need to panic."


    Everything was fine! The hum of his gentle words filled her heart banishing all her worries. His eyes gazed at her reassuringly as a shrowd of swirling mist fell on her engulfing her in its silken folds. She quivered then accepted its protective embrace. It was safe here, warm and cozy like her mother''s gentle hug!


    A moment passed in silence.


    The Inspector cleared his throat and she was pulled back to her senses. She looked around puzzled. The men had hung their heads looking slightly embarrassed.


    What just happened? She frowned to herself then glanced at Darsh in confusion. He pressed his lips with a knowing smile, then turned his attention to the men in the room.


    "It is true, Mr. Shekhawat. I did have chat with Dalpat Raisingh at the party before Aditi arrived last night. His presence there was unwarranted and was stressing Dadaji out. I merely asked Mr. Raisingh to leave. There was nothing more to it. I have mentioned it in my statement. You can verify it with anyone present there at the time."


    IG Shekhawat shook his head and gave him a reassuring smile. He was not born yesterday and could read the signs very well. Yet he was not bothered. The Raisinghs had been a thorn in his side for many years. He was only too happy to be rid of them. This couple had his blessings, and it looked like they needed them.


    "Of course, Mr. Khanna. We are not pursuing that line of inquiry. In fact, this is an open and shut case - a simple case of an attempt to suicide." He got up from his chair and patted Aditi''s head. "Take care, Aditi. I am glad you two found each other. Your parents would be happy if they were here today."


    Wishing them well, the police finally took their leave. Darsh followed them but stopped at the door to give her an amused look.


    Aditi slumped back, covering her flaming face with the crook of her arm. She couldn''t believe it. It seemed like surprise was the order of the day.


    *****


    She was discharged that afternoon. She wondered if she''d see Grandpa Raisingh, but luckily he wasn''t around. He must be scrambling, running from pillar to post, begging the police and doctors for help. As far as she knew, he was as alone and helpless as she herself was a mere twenty-four hours ago. Her heart went out to him. He was no less than her Dadaji and had loved her in his own way. She just wished it hadn''t come to this.


    The return journey was quiet. Mohit stared out of the window in subdued silence. He was Vivaan''s friend since childhood and although he had an inkling about the fate of the marriage, he certainly hadn''t expected Vivaan to end up like this. Her Dadaji too was somber. Vivaan''s fate had shocked him too. And it was not easy to lose a lifelong friend like Dalpat Raisingh however twisted he was.


    The only person least concerned was Darsh. His dark gaze kept finding her through the rear-view mirror. Swallowing a gulp, she shifted herself to stare out of the window.


    The cool breeze was full of the scent of wet grass and mud. The last night had seen the first of the monsoon rains after a long wait. It brought her some relief, but her agitation stayed. Marriage! She had never thought of it as a real possibility, not until a week ago, not until a couple of days ago, hell, not even until this very morning when Darsh had told her what to do and stayed with her throughout to make sure she followed his script. Now that it was done, she knew she had no way to back out. It was inevitable, like a troll guarding a bridge that she had to face to get to the other side.


    Her face went clammy despite the cool breeze. She wished she had more time. Marriage was a commitment she wasn''t ready to make. It came with certain expectations, obligations that she wasn''t yet ready to fulfill.


    Her throat hurt as a slow ache built behind her eyes. Lost in her thoughts, they reached home. She limped out with Mohit''s help but the three stories to her bedroom suddenly felt like a mountain. As expected, Darsh was there to help. Lifting her up with practiced ease, he carried her up to her room. Again, no one batted an eyelid. It was as if she was his responsibility already.


    Entering her room, he gently placed her on the bed and arranged the pillows behind her. She watched him cautiously. She had to take this chance, probably her last chance, to straighten things out her way.


    "Err... thanks for everything." She mumbled through her teeth. "But don''t go getting ideas in your head. I had no choice. I only did it for my Dadaji."


    He pursed his lips and stepped back from the bed. There was a moment of silence, then he shrugged. "I had no choice either. I respect your grandfather. This is the least I could do to save him from your stupidity."


    "I told you I did what I had to do!" She flared in disbelief.


    "And I told you you should have left it to me." His reply came ready.


    They glared at each other, he - like a strict teacher chastising an errant child, she - like the defiant child caught in wrongdoing afraid of her punishment.


    He smirked. "Good night, sweetheart. I hope you are haunted by nightmares of Vivaan Raisingh and the police. But if there is a little space, do dream about me too. Because like it or not, that''s the one that''s going to come true."


    Giving her a parting nod, he bowed out. She gnashed her teeth, then pulled her covers up.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 32.

    That night Aditi dreamed. It was not her usual dream of her parents when she sat on the temple steps with her head in her Ma''s lap. Nor was it of her father when he frolicked with her in the cave pool, laughing his infectious laughter, filling her heart with indescribable happiness.


    This was a different dream.


    She was at the racecourse, riding one of Grandpa Raisingh''s horses. Her Dadaji watched her from the Executive viewing gallery with Grandpa Raisingh lurking behind. The stands around were empty, the sun blazed hot, its searing heat pierced her skin, leaving red welts. The horse under her buckled as if something sharp pierced its shiny coat. It flailed with pain and reared on its hind legs. Aditi fell back, eyes scrunched shut, waiting in desperation to fall to the hard ground.


    This time, no one saved her.


    She fell with a bone-crunching crash, limbs splayed on the hard, dry dirt track.


    The pain came flooding, but she felt nothing. Her body went numb, her brain stopped, her heart shuddered to a sudden halt.


    Her eyes, though, stayed wide open. They saw people laughing. Jockeys, trainers, and sundry racegoers, suddenly gathered around to watch her embarrassment. More came pouring through the invisible stands. Her brain spun in dizziness as cold faces gawked at her, jeering, leering, drooling in delight.


    Through a cacophony of sounds came a burst of deep, throaty laughter. She recognized it instantly. It was him. This time he hadn''t bothered to catch her. Instead, he''d joined the melee of onlookers, enjoying her spectacle, ridiculing and mocking her in her agony. And he looked happy, too happy to see her in distress.


    Tears rolled from her eyes. She so wanted to get up on her own two feet but had no strength left to do so.


    When she woke up finally, alone in her bed, eyes streaming in panic, cold sweat drenched her body. Luckily, she was alone in her room. The heckling crowd had disappeared. The pitter-patter of soft rain falling outside brought her some relief. It was just a silly dream; she realized. There was no way Darsh would do it to her. Yet the ache in her heart was unbearable as if she''d been let down by the one person she trusted in the whole world.


    "I told you, you are in love," Vivaan mocked her as he floated away in the dark. His words had registered somewhere deep, even though she had refused to acknowledge them at the time. "Just wait for it," he added, sneering evilly. "Wait until he lets you down, just as you did to me."


    A desperate confusion riled her heart as more tears came flooding. Vivaan was just being vile, she didn''t want to believe his words. Yet she knew it wasn''t utter rubbish. At least a part of it was true.


    Clutching her covers to her chest, she sat against the headrest and waited for the morning to come. Better not dream any more dreams lest they actually come true.


    *****


    Two days later, Aditi limped down for breakfast, looking drained and white. Her fiance had left her alone for the time, but his nightmare plagued her endlessly. She''d tried to shrug it off as it was just a play of her mind and his words. But for some reason, it kept returning. Every time she woke up trembling in tears, then sat in her bed cursing herself. So weak she was to let him control her mind, so weak to allow him to torment her this way.


    Her only respite was Mohit, who had buried the hatchet and was back to being his normal bubbly self. Not only had he visited her a few times, but he also looked quite taken by her fiance. Aditi sighed. This engagement had solved a lot of problems, yet created some of its own. She wished Kanta Chachi was here, she was the only one who could understand her trouble.


    She entered the dining room to see Darsh sitting with Dadaji. They were engrossed in some deep conversation over black coffee and toast. The rest of the family was nowhere to be seen. She wondered where they were. The last she had seen them was the day of her engagement when Ravi Chachu had got insanely drunk, Mansi Chachi had teetered from one guest to another and Nidhi had stood on the sidelines watching the display with a forlorn look as if waiting for someone.


    Aditi wished she could talk to her. The girl must be suffering now that any hope of Vivaan was lost forever.


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    Chewing her lip, she pulled a chair and grabbed herself a toast. Her fianc¨¦¡¯s laser eyes landed on her, scanning her in one swift glance. She felt her skin prickling. Keeping her eyes down, she gulped her food. She had to finish fast and get out of here before his devilish brain could decipher what was going through her mind.


    "I think it''s time we start on the hospital project," Darsh''s voice rumbled through the air, making her snap up in surprise. A wide smile erupted on her face. Darsh pursed his lips.


    "My team will be here tomorrow to start on the initial surveys. I think the village green is an ideal place. It''s large enough, and the access is good."


    Her face fell. Not the village green?


    "But... that space is used by the villagers," she spluttered in confusion, looking from Darsh to her Dadaji. "Kids play there and we also hold our annual fairs there. I have another place in mind. We can convert the old cottages on the eastern side. It''ll be much quicker and easier."


    "That place is good enough for the charitable hospital." Her fiance''s voice was calm yet firm. "I am talking about the other hospital. It''ll need a much bigger space."


    Aditi fell silent. He was talking about the luxury hospital; she realized it a little too late. Her charitable hospital was not on his agenda. The last time she rejected his proposal, she''d told him she''d build it herself. He was just holding her to her words.


    She shook her head, trying to hide her disappointment. Fair enough. Her hospital was her responsibility. She will build it with her friends, she didn''t need anyone else. But the village green...


    She turned to her grandpa. "But Dadaji, the villagers love that space. There are other places you can use.."


    "We have already discussed this with the Village Chief, Aditi." Her Dadaji''s tone was clipped; she noticed he avoided her gaze. "The villagers have agreed to accommodate. It''s our land anyway, we can use it the way we want."


    Her face fell further. Of course, it was their land, and of course, the villagers wouldn''t mind. They loved her grandfather. But even then...it didn''t sound right. Swallowing an uneasy lump, she got up to leave. It seemed she needed to catch up. A lot had happened the two days she was bedridden.


    "Where do you think you are going, girl?" Her Dadaji''s sharp voice halted her steps. "Sit and eat properly. You''ve just had a toast."


    "I''m fine Dadaji. I am full," Aditi said turning in surprise. "I am just going to the clinic. It''s been a few days, Dr. Wadhwa must be struggling without me."


    "Sit down, girl," Balwant snapped curtly. "You''ll stay in your room until you get better. And maybe you should cure yourself first before worrying about others."


    Aditi blanched. What was the matter? It felt like her Dadaji was holding himself from lashing out. She glanced at Darsh for some clue, but he avoided her gaze, suddenly too interested in his fingernails.


    Frowning at herself, she turned back to her grandpa. "But Dadaji, you know Dr. Wadhwa needs me. He depends on me for critical cases..."


    "Not anymore. Darsh has appointed a new allopathic doctor in your place."


    She stared dumbfounded. The words took a while to reach her brain, and when they did, they sapped away whatever little color her face had gained that morning. A new doctor? To replace her? Why? Her panicked eyes flitted to her fianc¨¦, who gave a slight shake of his head.


    "I''m sorry, Aditi, but I had to do it. Dr. Wadhwa was having trouble coping without you and you are still not recovered. So I found this middle way."


    She opened her mouth, but no words came out. Again, there was nothing wrong with his logic, it was good he had found someone to help Dr. Wadhwa. But... but that clinic had been her respite for so long. She didn''t just go there to help others; it helped her to forget too. Now it seemed she was losing that little sanctuary.


    "How long is he going to stay?" She asked, holding her breath.


    "A couple of years." Darsh watched her closely. "He needed a longer contract, and I thought Dr. Wadhwa could use someone more permanent."


    Her eyes stung with sudden emotion; she didn''t know where to look. Pressing her lips, she nodded in agreement and started for the door. At least she had her hospital to work on, her promise to her dying mother.


    "And yes, one more thing, Aditi," her Dadaji called again. This time, he actually looked angry, a white-hot vein popped in his forehead. "I have informed your friends the charitable hospital project is postponed indefinitely. You need to recuperate. The faster you recover, the quicker we can set a wedding date."


    Aditi stared aghast. "But... the villagers need a charitable hospital, Dadaji. Their situation is desperate. I see every day at the clinic..." Her lips quivered as she tried to suppress the lump in her throat. She couldn''t fathom what was happening. It felt like her whole life was falling apart.


    "Well, Palampur is a small village, we certainly don''t need two hospitals here." Balwant''s face was set with steely determination. "And I think the arrangement with Wadhwa and the new doctor should hold. They can use the facilities of the new hospital, and we can always appoint more doctors if needed."


    But...what about her promise to her Ma? She wanted to ask. Her Dadaji knew of her promise very well. She didn''t want to remind. She shouldn''t need to remind! Aditi looked at him in desperation, her heart in her mouth, eyes stinging with hurt. Balwant pursed his lips and turned his head away.


    For the next ten minutes, the two men discussed their plans. Aditi stood quietly, half-listening, half staring at her own feet. Sometime later, she dragged herself out. She needed to be alone. Away. Anywhere else, but here.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 33.

    Aditi hobbled out as fast as her aching leg allowed - down the front steps, around the house, through the gardens back to Aron''s stable. Vivaan''s insane laughter kept echoing through her mind. Her heart burned, her throat stifled a painful lump. Jolts of shooting pain erupted her leg, but she carried on heedless.


    Walking in a daze she reached Aron and stood near him shaking. The horse looked at her puzzled, waiting for her to stroke him, but she just stared, as if she expected him too to fling some nasty surprise at her.


    Nothing happened for the next few minutes. Aron gave an impatient nicker and fidgeted for her to come close. Tears of desolation rolled her eyes as she stroked his beautiful head, then walked on, past the stables, towards the back gates. Beyond the gates were paddy fields that stretched miles to the mountains. She wished she was there. She wished she could run away and hide there somewhere never to return.


    "Aditi, wait!" a voice called from behind. She hurried her steps nearly breaking into a run.


    "Stop Aditi." The voice sounded earnest as it came closer. She felt a strong grip on her arm before Darsh pulled her to a stop. "Where are you going? Running away is not going to solve this problem."


    She turned around slowly to look at his handsome face. He was the same man she had saved her ten days ago at the racecourse, the same man who''d let her down this morning. The same man who had helped her umpteen number of times. He had also set his price, and it looked like he didn''t want to wait.


    Her eyes teared as a raw ache gnawed at her heart. She shirked his hand away. "Stop chasing me and I''ll stop running."


    "No one is chasing you, Aditi."


    "You are, and you know it!" Her words spat venomously as she turned her back on him. Faster, further, far away; if it were possible, she would have disappeared in the thin air.


    "Stop running from me and I''ll stop chasing."


    His words halted her in her tracks. She turned to him, pinning him with her steely gaze. "So you agree you are chasing? You did all this to bring forward the wedding?"


    He let out a sigh. "Can we sit somewhere? I can explain. It''s going to start raining soon and.."


    "NO! There''s nothing to explain. Everything is crystal clear. Dadaji was worried and you took advantage of his weak state to turn things your way. How could you Darsh?" Her eyes blazed with anger.


    He grabbed her shoulders, his jaw clenched. "That''s not true Aditi. Let me explain..."


    "What did you tell him?" Her scathing voice cut him short. "Oh wait. Let me guess. You told him what I did on that bridge. That is why he is so angry, isn''t he? That is why he is punishing me! How could you Darsh? I trusted you, I thought you cared. I thought...I thought you..." Loved me? Her words burned in her throat as she struggled to breathe. Her heart throbbed with an insane agony that she couldn''t put a name to.


    "I do care Aditi." His hand raised to cup her cheek. "But you are getting it all wrong. I didn''t do anything. It was Dadaji''s idea. I tried to talk him out of it but he was adamant."


    She snorted and shirked his hand away. "Yeah, why would you try to convince when everything is going your way? My clinic is gone, my hospital is gone. My promise to my mother..." Her voice caught. All that she had left now was this marriage. It was her only reality while everything else was just a dream. This was what Darsh meant that night when he''d wished her goodnight. How easy it was for him to destroy it all. A snap of his fingers and everything went up in smoke.


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    "Is this my punishment?" She asked as tears rolled her cheeks.


    He frowned. "What are you talking about?"


    "This is my punishment for defying you, right? You told me that night there would be consequences. You told me you''ll make me pay. I was wondering that day in the hospital why you were so calm. Now I know. This was your plan all along. You made me change my statement for the sake of Dadaji. And then you went and told him yourself. How could you Darsh?"


    Her head whirled with dizziness as she looked at him forlornly. He was no better than Vivaan after all. It felt like she had just exchanged one man for another.


    "That''s enough!" Darsh thundered as rage clouded his face. His body quivered as he took a menacing step forward and grabbed her shoulders. "Now shut the hell up and listen to me! It was Zorawar. Zorawar told Dadaji, not me!"


    Her face paled. Zorawar?


    "The night we returned from the hospital they had a chat in the study, something they do daily. I don''t know what passed there, but since then Dadaji is furious."


    She swallowed a hard lump. Why would Zorawar do it? She trusted him. He had never said a word about that night when she asked him to go after those boys. Why would he snitch on her now?


    "He never said anything about that night as Dadaji never asked. But he couldn''t keep quiet about the bridge incident since Dadaji was quite shaken. I am guessing he inadvertently blabbered something that made Dadaji suspicious and then he had to come clean."


    Her eyes widened. "You...you know I used Zorawar that night?"


    "Of course, I know," he snapped in irritation. "Do you think I am an imbecile to pursue a woman that I know nothing about? I have done my homework. I proposed to you knowing everything. I know that night you sent Zorawar after those four boys. I also know they got into an accident and Dr. Wadhwa refused to treat them." His grip slackened as raked an uneasy hand in his hair. His eyes were distant, sparkling with some dark emotion she couldn''t fathom.


    "How do you...?"


    "Let''s just say I put two and two together." He gave her a penetrating look. Nothing about her was hidden from him, everything was laid bare. "I have said it before and I''ll say again, Aditi. I know you. I don''t blame you for doing what you did, hell, if I was in your place I would have done the same. Those boys deserved their punishment and Vivaan did too. I only wish you had trusted me to handle things. We could have avoided all this mess."


    *****


    The rain poured in earnest as Darsh grabbed her arm and pulled her back to the stables, to an empty stall. Aditi walked in meekly without making a move to resist. Standing in the little cubicle full of hay and horse smell, she crossed her arms to hug herself. Her hair was plastered to her face, her clothes were dripping wet. Darsh watched in distaste as she stood shivering, warding herself off from the biting cold.


    "I can''t offer you my jacket this time," he said in irritation. "It''s wet, thanks to you. And it''s also my last, considering you haven''t yet returned the other two."


    She pursed her lips and ignored his words. She had more important things on her mind.


    "Does... Dadaji know everything?" Her voice came in a scared whisper.


    Darsh grimaced. "I don''t know for sure. He definitely knows about the bridge incident. He didn''t talk about it, but he is miffed at me too for keeping it from him. All he told me was to get on with my hospital project. I tried to talk him out of canceling the charitable hospital but he doesn''t look like in a mood to listen."


    So he knows! Her heart sank. No wonder he was angry. She had broken Dadaji''s trust, lied to him to keep her secret. And this was her punishment for letting him down. Her hospital was snatched mercilessly and she was to be married away asap. Maybe he thought she was too much trouble, his old bones were unable to shoulder the burden anymore.


    A sudden weariness washed over her as pressure built in her chest.


    "I am not ready," she whispered staring at her feet.


    Darsh frowned. "Ready for what?"


    "For marriage. I can''t... It''s... too soon." She closed her eyes as her face clouded in shame, her silent tears making their way out. She wished her Ma was here, or at least Kanta Chachi. She needed someone to lean on, someone who would understand, hold and support her until she gathered herself.


    Darsh came closer. A gentle finger tipped her chin up as he watched her ashen face - dull, lifeless, devoid of any joy. Gone was the sunny girl he had seen two weeks ago. This was just an empty shell, a mere remnant of what she had been once.


    "Is that why you''ve been pushing me away?" He asked tucking a strand of her hair behind her ear. Her face flushed as she stared at her feet, unable to meet his eye.


    He pulled her close in a gentle hug. "I understand. You have nothing to fear from me. I know saying it won''t make it happen, but please try to trust me Aditi. I''ll..I''ll never hurt you, you can rely on me."


    Bending down he kissed her brow, then stood holding her close. Her doe eyes kept watching him through her tears as she slowly began to relax. His warmth spread through his body as he engulfed her fragile frame. And she leaned on him, finally letting go.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 34

    Two hours later, the sky had cleared, and the sun had claimed its territory back. In the little stall behind the stables, Darsh sat in the hay with his back to a wall. Aditi slept peacefully with her head in his lap, her body angled sideways to keep her weight off the injured leg.


    Gazing at her beautiful face, he heaved a contented sigh. She had fallen asleep an hour ago, after crying inconsolably in his arms, then smiling, then falling into sobs again. Her eyes were puffy, surrounded by dark circles. Her face, though, was serene as she smiled in her sleep.


    He wondered if she was dreaming. If she was, he hoped it was a happy dream about him and her. He could really do with some help. The last few days were incredibly stressful, what with the Raisinghs, the police, Balwant Sharma, and his own sweet princess keeping him on his toes.


    His fingers brushed her cheek as he removed a stray tendril from her face. How peaceful she looked, how serene and beautiful! She had no idea how close to the truth she had been this morning. If only she knew him better, she would have put two and two together and uncovered his lie.


    But that was the glitch. Darsh smiled. She didn''t know him. Nobody knew him, the real him, except for himself. His Ma thought he was an obedient son, hard-working and diligent, who loved his little family. For his brother, he was a father figure who''d cared for him since he was five. For his partners and associates, he was a shrewd businessman they could rely on to make profits. And in him, Balwant Sharma had found his dead son.


    Everyone saw in him what they wanted to see. It was a game of perceptions, and he preferred to keep it that way.


    And Aditi...! He shifted slightly to ease the pressure on her neck. She gave a sigh, then wrapped an arm around his waist to snuggle closer. A tender smile lit his face.


    The girl was in love with him.


    For all her haughty pride, her dreadful past, and its haunting shadows, she hadn''t been able to guard her heart. And for all her frantic attempts to escape him, it had taken him one simple maneuver to guide her gently back his way.


    She was right on the mark when she''d accused him of snitching. Only he hadn''t snitched on her. He had snitched on Zorawar. It was he who''d tipped Balwant Sharma of Zorawar being up to something on the engagement night. As expected, Balwant had taken Zorawar to the task, and the rest had automatically fallen into place. Now he didn''t have to worry about anything - neither her clinic nor the hospital. All her obsessions were taken care of, all his obstacles were removed. Now she had nothing but him, her ultimate destination. Not only that, but Zorawar too would be wary of helping her again. All in all, it was a perfect game. He patted his back, he deserved a ten on ten.


    "Don''t go getting ideas in your head...," she had taunted him defiantly. Darsh smirked. He didn''t do ideas. He had plans - beautiful, intricate, detailed designs he executed with meticulous precision to get what he wanted. They rarely failed and if they did, it was because he wanted them to.


    He let out a sigh as he fidgeted with his ring. His sights were now set on his marriage. That was his ultimate goal and this girl in his lap will help him achieve what he couldn''t have done after an entire lifetime of slogging.


    Riches, as he''d never dreamed before, power, prestige, connections, influence, everything that takes generations to build, he would achieve with a single masterstroke. This girl in his lap was his ladder to that success. He couldn''t wait to make her his.


    Filthy underdog, they called him behind his back in the circles he moved. A bastard, a mongrel from the back alleys of Delhi, who was flying too high. In parties and business meetings, projects and proposals, every time he beat them, they put their snooty noses in the air to look down upon him. Darsh Karuna Rathore would never measure up to them, their old money, their breeding, and their haughty, stuck-up pride.


    All that would change once he was married. This girl in his lap will achieve him that success, the things that he craved with a vengeance - respect, acceptance, approval.


    In return, he would be her faithful husband, he was a respectable man after all. He would offer understanding, care, and compassion, whatever the jargon that went with the job. There was a physical part too, which he would have no trouble fulfilling. He was attracted to her like any other man. Call him charmed, bewitched, enamored, or smitten- take your pick. Conjugal bliss would be part of the deal whenever she was ready.


    A sudden gust of icy wind fell on his cheek like a slap. He startled his eyes open. What? Was he sounding too morbid? Too heartless, too much of a bastard?


    A bitter laugh escaped his lips. He was a bastard, he just couldn''t help it. It was his destiny. Try as he might, he couldn''t change it.


    That was why this was so important. That was why he was so desperate to grab this opportunity. Aditi Sharma had that Midas touch. Once she was his, he would turn golden like her.


    "So, all that talk of finding ''the one'', love at first sight, was it all a lie?" A small voice from somewhere asked him desperately. It sounded familiar. He probably had heard it that morning.


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    He shook his tired head. No, it wasn''t a lie. He did believe in love, and he did believe in love at first sight. It was just that he''d passed that point already. Love was not a part of this deal. For him, that ship had sailed long ago.


    His head felt hot, a sudden lethargy took over his aching body. It could be a fever or the malice of his own wretched mind that was finally making its way out.


    Running a clammy hand through his hair, he let out a weary sigh. He still had a few loose ends to tie. She was still unaware of his connection to Neil or his reason to come to Palampur. He''d thought of doing it for some time now, but couldn''t risk it. She would use it as an excuse against him and he couldn''t allow that at any cost. It was wiser to wait until after the wedding. Once they were safely married, she would have nowhere to go but him.


    And then his Ma would help him too. Now that Aditi had mellowed down, he was free to introduce her to his mother. That would be another item off his to-do list.


    His tummy gave a loud grumble at the thought of his mother. Aditi woke up with a start and sat up looking confused.


    "What was that? Is it the storm again?"


    Darsh grimaced. "It''s my tummy. I am hungry. Can we go back now? We need dry clothes and it''s nearly lunchtime."


    She gave him a look and curled her lip. "Let''s stay a little longer. I like it here. It''s quite cozy." Lying back, she sprawled in the hay, her eyes twinkling with mischief. He felt another growl building, this time from a different hunger.


    The murky lethargy of his mind vanished as he drank in her radiance. Her creamy skin glowed, his warmth had given it a lush pink hue. The rain-soaked cotton of her dress made her luscious curves even more prominent. The flyway curls hugged her sweet face like the moon draped in clouds. Her eyes were clear from her restful nap. His jaw hardened.


    This was unfair. She was rejuvenated but what about him? He was still cold, parched, and starved. Starved with a mindless hunger only she could satisfy.


    "I don''t mind staying if I get a snack." He tilted his head as his eyes descended to her lips. He needed some succor and fast. Without it, he would die. Without that life source, he had no way to live.


    Her smile faded. She looked in confusion as a crimson flush crept down her neck. "Someone told me I can rely on them."


    "You can," he nodded sagely, "as long as I don''t die of starvation."


    He lunged forward as she squeaked and rolled out of his reach, then stood up in alarm to run. Unfortunately, she couldn''t go past a couple of steps as he was already up blocking her way.


    His dark eyes locked on hers as she swallowed and took a step back. He kept moving forward until her back touched the cold stone wall. Then he took another step forward and was flush against her soft curves. Her body stiffened.


    "Darsh...I.."


    He bent down and nuzzled against her silken mane, then pecked her lips lightly and stepped back. "I said just a snack. I''ll happily wait for dinner until it''s ready."


    He winked and led her out.


    *****


    Walking back with him, with his hand gripping hers, Aditi felt lightheaded. Waves of some unknown euphoria washed over her. The air was cooler, the leaves lusher, the golden sunlight seemed much brighter. A heady scent of honeysuckles seeped through the air, sending her into jitters. It was as if she was floating through the air yet was anchored to the ground. It was a feeling of belonging, being rooted yet free, that was too new to her.


    She shot him a sideways glance, but he kept his eyes firmly ahead. His face was grave as if something was weighing on his mind.


    Biting her lip, she stared at their intertwined hands, wondering why on earth she hadn''t trusted him earlier. He was right. She should have left Vivaan to him. Then she would still have her hospital and a stud farm to boot, and her Dadaji would have been spared the unnecessary heartache. It was her own demons that had kept her at bay. Maybe if she had tried harder, and listened to her parents, none of this would''ve happened.


    "Don''t think too much now," his voice brought her back as they reached the front porch. As usual, he''d guessed her mind. "And keep this evening free. I want to take you somewhere."


    "Where?" she frowned. He raised his eyebrow.


    "Somewhere. Be ready." Leaving her at the door, he got into his car. She looked puzzled.


    "Are you not staying for lunch?"


    "No," he gave a mysterious smile. "I need to prepare for the evening. Be ready to be surprised."


    She rolled her eyes and walked in. The rest of the time went in a blur. She took a shower and changed into warmer clothes, wrapping herself in a couple of layers. Coming out of her room, she rushed down to her Dadaji''s study but was disappointed to find locked. A soft murmur of voices emitted from inside, she could just make out it was Uncle Dawar with her Dadaji.


    She''d just have to wait, then. Aditi shrugged and walked to the dining room for lunch. This time, there was someone waiting for her.


    "Hi Di," Nehal looked up from her plate, her eyes scanning her from head to toe. "You look happy. I meant to talk to you before but didn''t get a chance. Congratulations on your engagement."


    Aditi nodded, looking unsure. It was the first time in days that she was seeing Nehal. The girl looked drawn, haunted as if she hadn''t slept in days.


    "Are you okay, Nehal? You don''t look well."


    "I''m fine, Di," Nehal replied with a breezy smile. "Fit and fine, as you can see."


    She was not fine; Aditi could see it clearly. Whatever Vivaan''s faults, she knew Nehal had loved him dearly.


    "I am sorry about Vivaan. I hope he gets better soon," Aditi spluttered, her face flaming in shame. For all she knew, her sister was another casualty of her thoughtlessness. "I''m sorry."


    "Don''t be, I am not," Nehal answered stiffly. "He deserved what he got."


    Aditi looked puzzled. "What do you mean?"


    "I saw you with Vivaan." Nehal''s eyes were cold. Aditi watched her in horror.


    "You did right. I should have listened to you. Thanks for looking out for me." Nehal continued as Aditi''s eyes widened in surprise. Was she really hearing what she was? She wondered in shock. A flicker of a smile started creeping up her face. It felt like her sister had finally had a change of heart.


    Nehal pushed her chair and got up. "That doesn''t mean I like you, Di. I still want you gone. That poor fianc¨¦ of yours is clearly head over heels. Just get married already and go away. I can''t stand your face."


    Nehal left without sparing her another look. Aditi sat dumbstruck, then pulled a plate. She was suddenly ravenous. Kanta Chachi was not here to feed her anymore, and she had to make up for a long backlog.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 35

    By the time the evening approached, Aditi had again lost her appetite. The little relief her sister had brought her had been replaced with anxious guilt. She still hadn''t been able to talk to her Dadaji. She had tried again after lunch, then an hour later, then every hour after that. But first, he had stayed locked in his study, then in his room.


    Chewing her lips, she stared out of Darsh''s car as they zoomed through the winding hill paths. The damage was done, all she could do now was to somehow find a way to apologize and hope for his forgiveness.


    "You don''t seem very excited about the surprise," Darsh said glancing at her pale face.


    Aditi stretched her lips in an obligatory smile. "Of course, I am excited."


    He gave her a look and pursed his lips. "I told you not to overthink. Dadaji will come around, just give him some time."


    Her smile faded as her fingers curled tightly in her lap. How much time would he need? She wished he would hurry; she wasn''t used to Dadaji being upset with her for so long. It made her desperately lonely, the way she''d felt after her parent''s demise.


    "Relax. Everything will be fine." Darsh moved his left hand to cover her right. She felt herself calm.


    Shaking her head, she stared at his hand, at her father''s ring sitting proudly on its third finger. It must be fate. The moment her parents were snatched away, her Dadaji had stepped in to take their place. And now that her Dadaji was distancing himself from her, she''d got this man to fill in the void. Maybe it was a sign that she should put her insecurities away and accept him wholeheartedly. Not because she was trapped or forced, but because she needed him with the same desperation with which she needed her parents and her Dadaji.


    Cradling his hand in her palms, she lifted it to her lips to place a gentle kiss. Darsh startled, then raised his eyebrow.


    "And to what do I owe this honor?"


    "For being there for me," Aditi smiled. "Thank you."


    A fleeting something passed over his face before it broke into a reassuring smile.


    "I''ll always be there for you."


    Aditi smiled. An inexplicable calm spread through her being as she leaned her head back. They were climbing up the hill through the green forest. She remembered another such journey when she was with him. It was similar, serene, safe, inexplicably happy. Sighing to herself, she thanked her stars. She was lucky to have met him when she did.


    "May I ask you something?" she said after a while as she contemplated her future husband.


    He glanced at her. "Sure."


    "I was wondering. You use your mother''s name...," she swallowed uneasily. It wasn''t like she cared, hell, she didn''t care and neither did her Dadaji. But it felt like it was the key to understanding him. That was the first thing that caught her eyes when Dadaji told her about him. Darsh Karuna Rathore. The name stood out as uniquely as the man who owned it. It showed how much he was proud of his mother, and at the same time, it also hinted at something else.


    Darsh shrugged. "It''s because I don''t know my father''s name. My Ma was twenty when she went to a friend''s party. Her drink was spiked. She doesn''t remember anything after that, who it was or how many."


    Aditi shuddered, her eyes threatening to tear up. His face was cool.


    "Yeah, she didn''t get rid of me. She should have, but she didn''t. Women are such emotional fools sometimes. She left her parent''s home and moved to Delhi with a friend. Today I am what I am because of her."


    His tone was calm, unaffected as if it was someone else''s life story. It was a mask, she could tell. After all, she too had used her disguises for years.


    "I am sorry." She choked her apology out and went quiet. He shrugged and focussed on the road.


    *****


    Twenty minutes later, the car turned onto a mud path and trundled a few meters before jerking to a halt. Aditi squinted out in surprise. The Hunter''s Cottage.


    "You live here?" Stepping out of the car, she stared at the cottage. "I used to come here when I was little. It was a run-down place then, quite dilapidated. Kanta Chachi said it was haunted. She used to tell me scary stories to stop me from coming but..."


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    "But you came anyway?" Darsh smirked. Aditi huffed and walked on.


    The place now looked quite different. The broken roof was fixed. A fresh brown coat of paint gleamed on the exterior walls as a brand-new decking surrounded the entire cottage.


    "It''s not spooky anymore," she said, sounding disappointed.


    "No, not unless you count me as a ghost," Darsh chuckled as he held the door open for her. "Your Dadaji''s estate manager has refurbished it to let it out to tourists."


    Of course! Shaking her head, she removed her shoes and entered. Again, it hit her how much the place had changed. The main living area was divided into a large sitting room with an open-plan kitchenette. On one side, she could spy a large master bedroom. On the other side was a smaller guest room/utility room. A beautiful vase of fresh wildflowers sat on a windowsill, adding a splash of color. The whole place was squeaky clean, and Aditi could see how her fianc¨¦ had spent his afternoon.


    Her cheeks flushed. "So, is this my surprise?"


    He came closer. "No. I want you to meet someone - my mother."


    "Your... mother?" Aditi blinked.


    Darsh pressed his lips. "Yes, my mother. I have told her about us. She''d wait for my call at seven, which is about in...," he glanced at his watch, "five minutes."


    *****


    Darsh watched as Aditi sat on his sofa, ramrod-straight, staring at his laptop screen. Her face flamed in embarrassment as she kept her fingers laced tightly in her lap. On the screen in front of her was his Ma, being her usual gentle self, trying to make small chat. Aditi answered whatever she could though her discomfort was evident.


    Darsh smirked. This was the same place where Balwant Sharma had interrogated him the first time they met. Then he was in the same state as Aditi, although not as literally trembling as she was.


    "You should have told me before. I would have put on something more appropriate!" - was her first reprimand.


    Darsh had to reassure her she looked just fine. His Ma was used to seeing girls wearing all kinds of attires, Aditi''s fluffy high-necked sweater and jeans were no big deal. If he was being honest, she looked cute, like a newborn baby swaddled in their warmest, cuddliest, coziest of jumpers. Her nose was red with cold, and her hair was mussed up from their ride. He felt like pinching her chubby cheeks but thought the better of it.


    "But what will we talk about? What if she asks something and I answer wrong? She would think I''m a fool." - was her next terrible worry.


    "This is not an exam, Aditi. You don''t need to prepare answers in advance. Just be yourself. And I am here to help if you need me." He''d tried placating her again.


    Even then, the girl hadn''t stopped fretting. Next, she asked him the same question Rajeev had asked - "Why didn''t his Ma attend their engagement?"


    His answer too was the same - he didn''t want to alarm his mother considering the risk with the Raisinghs. And also, at the time, he didn''t trust Aditi to behave.


    Her face had flamed further before she gave him an annoyed look and fell silent. He was amused, yet absurdly happy. He felt like pulling her in another hug for a snack or two but again curbed his urge.


    Shaking his head, he got up to make his special ginger tea. He had done some food shopping that afternoon, getting some fresh supplies in preparation for tonight. A dish of pasta was currently in the oven, slowly baking itself to perfection. It smelt delicious; the whole cottage was full of a divine aroma of cream cheddar and herbs.


    Ah! The things a man had to do to get his heart''s desire! But then he had to admit he was enjoying it immensely.


    Minutes later, he came out holding two mugs of hot, piping tea to find the two ladies chatting away happily. As expected, his Ma had worked her magic. Aditi had finally relaxed and was sitting on the sofa cross-legged with a pillow in her lap, regaling her stories of Aron, her racing, her clinic, and, naturally, her Dadaji. His Ma listened happily; she''d always complained his calls were too short, abrupt, and to the point.


    At last, when they were done, he said his goodbyes and cut the call. Aditi sat beside him, looking flushed with happiness.


    "Your mother is really nice. She reminds me of my Ma."


    "All mothers are the same," he smiled and handed her the tea before taking a place beside her. "But mine is special."


    Aditi hummed, eying him unsurely. He readied himself for the questions that he knew would start coming.


    "I understand why you didn''t tell her about our engagement," she cleared her throat and placed her mug on the coffee table. "But now that she knows... shouldn''t she be upset about it? You are her only son, after all."


    He shook his head. Of course, his Ma was angry. Rather, furious was the better word. Darsh had never put his mother down for a violent person but now he knew better. The way she had lashed at him, he felt lucky he was in Palampur and not in Delhi facing her. But that was before he took matters into his own hand and played his trump card. He told her his brother''s vile truth. That was enough to remind his Ma of her own ghastly past, then everything fell into place. Her soft heart melted like butter on a hot pan, he didn''t even need to remind her not to mention Vicki in front of Aditi.


    Sighing slightly he raked his fingers through his hair. He knew he was being a despicable son, using his mother''s past to forward his own agenda, but he was helpless. He needed this girl. He needed her in his life to fighting his own demons. In return he''d help her heal, that was his deal, a gentleman''s promise.


    "Darsh?" Aditi watched him, holding her breath. "What did you tell her?"


    "I have found the best way to convince my mother is to tell her the truth."


    Aditi paled. "The truth?"


    "Yes. I had to tell her the truth, to make her understand why I got engaged so suddenly..." Pursing his lips, he set his mug down. Aditi looked at him wide-eyed, her face flaming in shame.


    "What did you tell her Darsh?" She asked holding her breath as if her life depended on it.


    Darsh exhaled. Leaning forward he pulled her closer enveloping her in his arms. He had to set her heart at ease, tonight her healing would begin.


    "That I fell in love. That I met a girl unlike any other, who captured my heart, my mind, and my soul. And once I found her, it was impossible to let her go. I had to have her in my life, there was no other way. I couldn''t go on living without her by my side."


    Aditi watched in stunned silence. Her face slowly cleared of its clouds, breaking into a tender smile.


    He bent down and planted a kiss on her cheek, his much-needed snack.


    "And on that note, I have another surprise for you."


    ***** *****

 Chapter 36.

    Aditi walked in a daze, Darsh¡¯s words humming in her ears like sweet temple bells chiming in a soft breeze. A sublime serenity filled her heart to the brim, she didn''t remember the last time she felt so utterly blissful, cherished, and content.


    Perhaps it was when she laid in her Ma''s lap listening to her dulcet tunes. Or perhaps it was when she played in the cave pool with her Dad. Or it could be in her dreams when she relived those moments to her heart''s content.


    Tonight, though, it felt like she had a new memory to cherish, with this man, who had just confessed his love for her. His words sounded as sweet a melody of her Ma''s music, as true as her father''s heartfelt laughter.


    Walking with him in a sweet trance she kept gazing at his proud figure. In her mind, her parents beamed proudly and patted her back.


    "Here we are!" Darsh''s voice broke her trance. She looked around, suddenly aware of her surroundings.


    They were in the guest room. It was empty except for a large table in the center. On the table, sat a model of a three-storied building - a large, white, sprawling structure surrounded by lush greenery.


    Aditi went closer, her eyes widening in surprise. It was beautiful.


    "This is...your hospital," she said after a while, her face falling into a chasm. Her lips quivered, the edges of her eyes turned moist. It was her broken dream, her broken promise to her mother. It caused a dent in her fulfillment, she realized she had no reason to be that happy.


    "It''s nice. People will love it." She forced a smile and stepped back. Turning around she was about to leave when he held her arm.


    "You are missing something. Look closer."


    Draping an arm around her back, he pointed her to a side, to one of the side buildings that looked like a self-contained unit. It had its own separate entrance. There was a little park outside with a small play area and benches to sit. A couple of tiny ambulances were parked near an entrance marked as ''Accidents and Emergencies''.


    Aditi squinted through her tears, then frowned. "Wait! That looks like..."


    "Your hospital. It''s a charitable wing adjoining the main building. It can act as a separate unit by itself. I got this done by the same architect you''d spoken to earlier. He knew what you wanted, plus I have added some of my own bits."


    A hard lump threatened to choke her throat as she stared. She noticed a few more details - A little statue in the park with a happy couple with a small girl. A plaque on the entrance with ''Meera Sharma Hospital'' engraved on it.


    "I know it''s not much," he said looking at her. "You wanted it to be a separate hospital and wanted to do it yourself. But as Dadaji has ruled it out, I thought I''d give it a go."


    Something shifted inside her, her heart swelling with emotion like a cloud about to burst. Swaying in a daze she looked at him - the man she''d taken forever to trust, the man she''d been so unfair to. The man who''d stood by her through thick and thin, the man she was too blind to see was... the love of her life.


    He was a blessing in disguise that she had taken too long to realize. Her tears rolled as she lurched at him, clinging to him for dear life. It was time she amended her mistake. It was time she let go of her past. This man was worth it, this man and no other.


    *****


    Darsh sat on the sofa with Aditi sniffling in his arms. It was the second time today that he was consoling her. The second time today that he had made her cry before applying the magical balm of his sympathy.


    Humphing to himself he leaned back and pulled her closer to his chest. It was necessary to purge her of her pain. It was all necessary to win her trust, or how else was he supposed to heal her?


    "Aditi... are you okay?" he brushed her hair off her hot face to have a good look. It was red, wet with tears, yet she looked inexplicably calm, determined.


    "I love you Darsh," she mouthed the words with calm conviction.


    Darsh stilled. There was a time once when he''d yearned to hear those words, although from a different girl. She was not as beautiful, nor as rich, but she was his first love, his only love. Now they sounded hollow, meaningless. They fell on his stone heart like drops of rainwater before sliding down into the mud.


    But this was good going - day 16 of his visit, and he was already here. The bastard in him rejoiced that he was closer to his destination than ever before. The honest man in him rejoiced that the girl wronged by his brother had finally found the courage to move on. And the primordial male inside him shivered in excitement - her confession was a step closer to her total submission. It meant she was healing. It meant she was ready for the next step, or at least she would soon be, with a little help.


    "Good for you." He feigned a disinterested reply.


    Aditi stiffened. It took her a while to process his response. Then she sat up glaring at him in disbelief.


    "What did you say?"


    He shrugged nonchalantly. "I said, it''s good for you that you love me. It''s quite convenient. Generally, it is considered beneficial for young women to be in love with their husbands. It just makes their life easier, won''t you agree?"


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    She looked lost for words as her face flamed in agitation. Her fists clenched, he wondered if the cat was about to pounce on him.


    "You know how arrogant you are, Mr. Khanna? Not just arrogant, but irritating, obnoxious, insufferable!! " She paused looking for more suitable adjectives. He smirked.


    "You know there are men who''d give their right arm to hear those words from me, right?" She continued flaring up. "You should consider yourself lucky that I chose you, you should count your blessings, thank your lucky stars!"


    "Really Aditi! Now, who''s being arrogant here?" He cocked a mocking eyebrow. "And you are doing me no favor. I deserve it after all that I did for you."


    "Oh, be quiet!" She waved him away. "You know I could have had anyone, right? I could have pointed my finger at a random man and he would be at my feet. Vivaan waited his whole life, there were boys in my college, club patrons, young men in Dadaji''s circle... "


    Her next words were drowned in a squeal of surprise as he pulled her closer and shut her up. His lips claimed hers with such ferocity she forgot to breathe. Moments passed as he took his fill. This time he was rough, claiming, demanding. She had no choice but to cling on to him and wait for this tempest to pass.


    Her head swirled, she was in the middle of a whirlwind that lashed her senseless yet supported her in its swirls. Currents of electricity jolted her core, it felt like she was being swept off her feet and hurled into a hurricane.


    "Darsh..." she somehow managed to breathe out when he gave her a respite.


    He tilted his head back, his dark eyes boring into her.


    "Don''t ever say those words again. You will never look at another man, do you understand? You are mine, you will stay mine. No one can change that, not even you!"


    She looked at him askance, her breath uneven, her cheeks flaming red. He was just wondering if it was blush or anger when he felt a stab of pain in his chest.


    "Well then, you need to behave!" Aditi ground her teeth digging her nails in his chest. "When someone says ''I love you'', you are supposed to say it back and not be rude to them! You should be grateful, you should be thankful... " With every incensed word, she tried to wriggle away out of his grip but he didn''t budge an inch.


    "It''s too little, too late."


    She frowned. "What do you mean?"


    He tilted his head looking at her coldly. "I mean your confession is a bit too late, Princess. It''s old news, I already know it just as I know everything else about you."


    "Then why not just say it?" She looked at him in confusion. "You said so much before, you gave such a long speech!"


    He shrugged. "Because I don''t want to. I waited for you to say it, I ran after you, I begged you, beseeched you, still you didn''t budge. My sincerest efforts were nothing to you. You always doubted, always tried to get rid of me. And now that you love me, you suddenly expect me to reciprocate? How fair is that?"


    Her face fell as if the wind was knocked out of her. Darsh smirked.


    "Look, I''m sorry. I know I should have trusted you earlier, but.." She looked up biting her lip. Her fingers curled to grab at his shirt. "But I do love you...truly! Maybe I always have but didn''t know. And then I didn''t have the courage." She swallowed as her eyes filled again. Unbeknownst to him, his eye turned tender.


    "And I am grateful," she blinked through her tears. "I am grateful for whatever you did for me and I''m sorry for giving you such a hard time."


    Darsh watched mesmerized. Such innocence, such vulnerability. Such honesty of feelings, and tenderness! It was priceless, he''d cherish it forever. But for now, he had an agenda. He had a goal to achieve, he couldn''t let it out of his sight.


    "Please...forgive me?"


    He humphed and jerked his head to the kitchen. "Let''s eat. I''m getting hungry."


    *****


    They ate in silence. Aditi kept sniffling, her expression altering between regret, doubt, and annoyance. She kept stealing glances at him but he focused on his food. He was quite hungry, and the pasta was delicious.


    A clatter of cutlery made him look up. She was done.


    "I want to go home."


    He frowned. "You haven''t finished even half of it. Eat."


    "I don''t want it. I don''t like cheddar."


    "Since when?"


    "Since now!" She snapped and got up to wear her shoes. "Drop me home now. It''s getting late."


    "Stop being a kid Aditi. Eat your food. We have plenty of time."


    "No. I don''t want to spend my evening with a grumpy grouch!"


    "I am not grumpy; you are being childish!"


    "I am not, you are! You are holding a grudge, you won''t even say three simple words to your fianc¨¦e, how childish is that?"


    He went closer and stared at her, his arms gently encircling her waist. Her body stiffened as if she was stealing against him.


    "Is it important?"


    Her lips quivered as her eyes darted to his, then she looked away.


    "Yes."


    "How much?"


    She gave him an exasperated look, her eyes threatening to pool again.


    "It is important for me! And if you are too full of yourself to say it..."


    He sighed and tightened his grip. "You have to earn those words as I did, Princess. Make it up to me and I''ll think about it."


    She frowned. "Meaning?"


    He stared at her, his light fingers tracing her jawline. She shivered.


    "How about a dessert? I can think about it if I like it."


    He could hear her thudding heart even through her thick jumpers. She looked pale, her breath quickened, beads of sweat appeared on her face.


    Yet her lips looked parched as if in need of succor. The solemn determination on her face was back soon enough.


    Smiling to himself, he bent down and nuzzled against her sweet face, then raised himself to rest his brow on hers.


    "Do you trust me?"


    She closed her eyes and swallowed, then shook her head in a tiny nod.


    "Yes."


    He smiled. "Thank you, Princess. Now let me take care of you."


    ***** *****

 Chapter 37

    "How about a dessert? I can think about it if I like it."


    The gravel in his voice sent jitters down her spine. Her heart thudded erratically; his warm body pressed to hers made her unbearably hot.


    "Too much, too soon.." her heart dithered.


    "Too little, too late!" his voice chirped.


    She licked her parched lips. It was getting difficult to think straight. She hadn''t expected to be put to test so soon after her confession. But then he was right. He had earned her love, had proved himself worthy, while she had done nothing to deserve it. All she had done was to be rude, to push him away while clinging on to her demons. She had let them take over, rule her life, choosing to live in their shadow. He was right. She had been unfair to him, ungrateful, living her life in her own cocoon, never really giving him a proper chance.


    But this man deserved better. He deserved a chance, her respect, her love, and much more. He definitely didn''t deserve to suffer from her past - he had his own burdens to carry, she had no right to dump hers on him.


    Bracing herself, she calmed her nerves. Sooner or later, she had to conquer her demons, and she''d rather do it sooner if it meant proving her love for him.


    "Do you trust me?" He rested his brow on hers, his dark gaze reaching for her soul. She closed her tired eyes. There was no question - trust, love, she had crossed those hurdles already. Now there was one last left, and she''d do it gladly if that meant proving her love for him.


    "Yes," she uttered her decision. Her heart calmed as she raised her eyes to look at his handsome face. Yes, she''d do it for him, for them. She would look forward and not let her past haunt their future.


    Darsh smiled.


    "Thank you, Princess. Now let me take care of you."


    *****


    "You are too hot, Princess. Take this jumper off."


    Nuzzling her face, he murmured his first order. Her heart raced miles an hour, her throat went dry. He was close - so close she had to step away to move her arms freely. Her fingers shook so badly she was stuck in the middle and he had to help her out of the garment.


    Once she was just in her cotton t-shirt, she felt much better. The cool air fanning her skin brought her some respite. His dark gaze raked her body snagging at the right places yet never lingering for too long. His eyes blazed with appreciation. She felt her cheeks heating.


    "Beautiful!" He murmured as he hugged her from behind to plant feather-light kisses on her neck. His warm breath fanning her bare skin sent sweet tremors down her body.


    "Now close your eyes and follow me." Wrapping a giant arm around her shoulder, he used his other hand to cover her eyes for good measure. They walked a few steps. She realized they had crossed the threshold into another room.


    A thin sheen of perspiration covered her skin. The heat coursing through her body reached such fervor she was surprised she was still on her feet and not dissolved to the ground in a pathetic, mushy puddle. Her feet felt laden, a heavy weight pressed on her stomach that she was unable to shift. It could be fear or fatigue or anticipation of what was to come, she knew she was not up to it. Maybe this was a terrible mistake, she was going to fail him and she was going to fail herself.


    Her eyes stung as one after another miserable thought pierced her heart. So much for her bravado, so much for her claims of love. Apparently, she was not up to it.


    "This way, Princess." His arm around her waist as he guided her gently. She followed his directions meekly, her fingers curling into fists to stop them from trembling. A tear trickled her eye down her cheek and disappeared into her shirt. She felt a gentle finger wipe the trail away.


    "Don''t worry, Princess." His soft voice murmured in her ear. "Nothing will happen that shouldn''t happen."


    Startled, she whirled around to stare at his face. That assurance...What did it mean?


    "I mean what I said, Princess," he said calmly. "You have nothing to fear."


    Bending down, he pecked her lips again, then turned her around to lead her in. She sighed and followed. Her fianc¨¦ was a puzzle, and it was high time she started picking pieces to figure him out.


    If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    *****


    "Keep your eyes closed, Princess." He stood her somewhere and moved away, but not before pecking her cheek again. She heard some shuffling, the sound of a drawer sliding open and shut.


    He was back in a jiffy. She felt something sliding around her neck.


    "Now open your eyes."


    Aditi stared in the mirror at her own reflection staring back at her. She looked as pathetic as she thought, although with one exception. Something golden sparkled in the mirror, resting snugly against her bosom. It was small, heart-shaped, beating gently against her own heart.


    Her face paled as her fingers closed on the golden heart. His eyes watched her in the mirror.


    "This is my last surprise for this evening, Princess. Your neck is always bare, I thought this would help."


    Her lips quivered as she opened the pendant with trembling fingers. There, in the little heart shape, sat her parents, smiling serenely as ever. It felt as if they had never left. It felt as if the night had never happened. Maybe it had never happened, or was she in a dream?


    Her heart grew heavy, eyes brimmed with tears as she looked at him puzzled. How did he...?


    "I found it... where you lost it," he said hesitantly. "That day on the mountain, the way you reacted to Lover''s Point piqued my interest. I couldn''t stop myself from probing."


    He looked sheepish. She didn''t know what to say. Her heart was filled with joy, yet shame and embarrassment came knocking at its doors. She had never felt so naked, was there anything that escaped this man?


    "I''ve had it for some time, but never had the courage to return. You always looked so eager to escape me, I selfishly decided to keep it for myself."


    Her lips quivered as her eyes lowered, clutching at the heart. His arms went around her, hugging her in a gentle embrace.


    "I think you need it more than I do. I''m sorry if I''ve hurt you, Princess, but I only want to see you happy."


    Leaning into him, she let her tears roll as a soothing calm spread her heart. It felt as if she was home, safe, warm, loved, with her parents and now this man to take care of her.


    This was his love, he had proved it again. His actions spoke volumes, there was no need for words. She had been truly na?ve to pester him for it.


    "Why are you doing this?" She asked tiredly, lifting her eyes to him. "You said it was my turn to make up to you, right? How am I supposed to do it when you won''t give me a chance?"


    He smiled.


    "You made it up already, Princess when you gave me your decision. It''s enough for me. And it was just this morning that I promised I''ll take care of you, right?"


    She stared at him, once again left speechless.


    This morning. Yes. She had nearly forgotten about it. It was just this morning that she''d told him she wasn''t ready, just this morning that she''d felt trapped. It was just this morning that she''d wanted to run away, somewhere far, never to return.


    Now it was the evening, and everything felt different. She had her parents back, and she had her fianc¨¦. No one was trapping her and she was free to fly, yet she wanted to stay here, with this man, in his arms.


    "Thank you, Darsh!" She couldn''t think of anything else to say. Words failed her, but not emotions. Her heart leaped with insane joy, she reached his neck, lacing her fingers in his hair to pull it closer. Raising on her tiptoes, she tilted her face to kiss the man she loved.


    There were no inhibitions now, no need for any appearances. No pain could stop her, no shame or embarrassment could hinder her path. She was finally free of her demons as she moved ahead to embrace her future, which was with this man, this man, and no other.


    *****


    Two hours later, Darsh dropped Aditi back home. Balwant Sharma stood on the front steps waiting for her on the dimly lit porch. The wind was howling; the sky looked to be bursting at its seams. Wrapping his shawl around him tighter, Balwant let out a sigh. It was going to be another dreadful storm.


    "Stay here tonight," he told the boy who''d gotten down to greet him. "It''s dangerous to drive in this weather."


    Darsh obliged as a servant ushered him to one of the guest rooms. Balwant turned to his study, as expected Aditi followed him.


    "So." He smiled, hoping to break the ice, but it didn''t help. He had been pretending for so long, trying to hide his guilt under the guise of his anger that he didn''t know what to say, how to face this girl. For all his power, he had failed to protect her. He had let her down, he had let his dead son down, in this old age, he had let himself down too.


    "I am sorry."


    The words were spoken in unison. Startled, they both looked at each other. Aditi swallowed.


    "I am sorry, Dadaji. I know I should have told you but..." Her face turned ashen as she looked down, unable to meet his eye.


    Balwant shook his head. He knew the reason for her silence. It was his fragile heart. She didn''t think he could take it, and she was right.


    "Don''t be silly, girl. I understand," he said tiredly. "And forgive this old man. I was too shaken, and I took some decisions..." His breath hitched as a sudden coughing fit took him over. Aditi shot to her feet.


    "Dadaji!" She hurried towards him, helping him with a sip of water, rubbing his back in panic. His fit receded slowly as he held on to her trying to get his bearings. A little more time was all he needed to finish the remaining tasks. He had been finalizing his will with Dawar for the past two days, and all he wanted now was to finish this last one before it was too late.


    "So, about the marriage. I know you were against it before. I forced you into the engagement and you agreed to it for me. But I want to ask again, do you like the boy?"


    He watched as the girl turned pink. Her eyes lowered as her answer came gently. "Yes."


    "Do you like him enough to marry him?" Balwant wanted to confirm. The girl nodded again.


    "Yes, Dadaji."


    Balwant smiled a relieved smile. At last, some things were falling into place. The burden of guilt on his heart could now ease a little, he could go to meet his maker with a slightly cleaner conscience.


    "Good girl. Now go to sleep. I have some more work to do."


    The girl went to the sideboard to get out his blood pressure tablets. He smiled and chugged them down. Not that they were going to help, but he would do anything to set her heart at ease.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 38

    Darsh entered the guest room and shrugged off his jacket as a server placed a pair of black silk pajamas at the foot of his bed. Another server pushed in a silver trolley laden with fruits and juices. Expensive crystal ware glimmered in the pleasantly ambient lighting. A tall silver glass of warm milk was reverently placed by his bedside as the servers retreated keeping their heads low.


    "Would there be anything else for tonight, Sir?" The Butler asked politely keeping his eyes to the ground. Darsh smirked. He could get used to this, this respect, this deference, this unmistakable feeling of climbing the higher echelons of societal status. These were just the perks of his position as the future son-in-law of Balwant Rai Sharma.


    "I am fine, thanks." Dismissing the man with a wave of his hand, Darsh flopped on the bed. The guest room of Sharma Residence was lavish by any standards but he wished he was on the third floor, in a certain room with a hundred-and-eighty-degree view of blue mountains. With swirling silk curtains, thick piled rugs, and a vast circular bed in the middle begging for more occupants. The scent of jasmine in that room was something else. It was the room of his princess. He wished he was there and not in this room, still treated as a guest.


    "Soon...," a voice cooed from inside, trying to soothe his hot head. Not just his head, but his mind, his body too needed some cooling tonight.


    Darsh sighed. To say he was aroused was an understatement. His body was taut, his skin hot. His head was hotter and his mind was numb with all that pent-up frustration he had to deal with while keeping the facade of his honor.


    The infinite reserves of his patience were running low. Today he had come close to losing it, if not for the three men dueling inside his head. It was crazy. A battle of wills that he''d only survived because the male inside him was outnumbered by the other two.


    "Nothing will happen that shouldn''t happen!"


    One of them had made him utter those words. One of them had stopped him from doing what the male inside him had craved insanely. He couldn''t take her when she was clearly not ready; when she was trembling with fear but was still willing to go through it just to prove her love. The gesture humbled him, he couldn''t deny that. It was more than anyone else had shown him before, an obscure face of a certain someone peeped through the shadows, but he pushed it resolutely away.


    Whatever. The decision was made in a split second and luckily he had enough senses left to stick to it. Moreover, it was necessary to win her trust, to assure her for one final time of his impeccable intentions. He had to take every opportunity to create goodwill with her, it was his insurance against the future when she''d come to know his brother''s truth.


    Folding his arms behind his head he closed his eyes. As was his habit, his mental calendar popped in front of him for its end-of-the-day review. Of all the days he had spent in Palampur so far, today shone the brightest. Her confession, her acceptance, her approval - he had achieved all three in a single masterstroke. For a moment it felt like he had achieved everything but that thought passed him unnoticed.


    The bastard inside him was content, snoozing in a corner, dreaming of his impending triumph, as was that little part of him called conscience that still managed to cling on to whatever was leftover of his honesty. The charitable wing, the locket, the magnanimous way he had assured her he''d take care of her - all little trinkets were enough to keep his conscience quiet. It was like a good honest dog - a pat on the head every now and then, a diet of some good deeds kept it in shipshape. What he did the rest of the time, it was not concerned. It was a happy little dog, willing to spring to his defense when he needed it, and more importantly, content to sit in a corner when he wanted it out of the way.


    He let out a sigh. Somedays he wondered just how much of his unknown father he had inside him. He liked to think himself an honorable man, more like his mother, but every now and then, in do-or-die situations like this, it was his father who came to his rescue. It was him he relied on when he needed help. His mother brought him peace, but it was the unfeeling bastard inside him, the devious low-life, that helped him achieve what he really wanted in life.


    The thought churned in his gut, a gagging reflux shook him bringing tiny beads of perspiration to his forehead. Repulsed, he sat up with a jerk, pushing the offensive thoughts away. Whatever his reality, he didn''t need anyone reminding him. He already had plenty of people showing him the mirror, he didn''t need his own mind playing the same game.


    It didn''t matter who he was, what he was, as long as he could rectify it. It would be fixed soon, his princess would soon be here to help him out of it.


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    Thinking of which, he glanced at his watch. It''d been ten minutes since he left Aditi with her grandfather. They would talk for maybe another five minutes, then Balwant Sharma would call his mother to fix the wedding date. The conversation would last for a max of three minutes - Balwant Sharma was a man of few words and his mother was too polite to chit-chat with an elderly man. So he should expect a call from his Ma in about... ten minutes?


    He picked up the nightsuit and went to the bathroom. By the time he was back, his phone rang. Darh chuckled.


    "Ma, how are you?" Darsh asked pleasantly, trying to keep the eagerness out of his voice.


    "I''m fine, Darsh. Aditi''s Dadaji just called to fix the wedding date. He sounded quite ill. Is everything okay?" His Ma''s voice was full of concern. Darsh sighed.


    "He got to know about the incident Ma. He is very shaken."


    "Poor man. I understand," his Ma''s voice was somber. "He wants the wedding to be in a week. I have agreed. Is that okay?"


    His heart did a few somersaults as tiny prickles of excitement slithered his skin from head to toe. Heat coursed through his body, but he somehow contained himself and kept his voice calm.


    "Of course, Ma. Whatever you think right."


    His answer should have satisfied his Ma, but she was quiet for several moments. Darsh frowned.


    "What is it Ma? Are you not happy?"


    "I am happy Darsh. It''s just that...." She sounded unsure. "I know you are marrying Aditi because of Vicki and it''s the right thing to do, but after I saw her today...," she paused again sounding a bit flustered. Darsh pursed his lips, wondering where this was going.


    "She is a very sweet girl, Darsh. Very innocent, and pure. And she would expect the same honesty from you, us. It will not be easy for her when she gets to know the truth." His Ma fell silent as her voice filled with shame. Darsh let out a shaky sigh. He had expected this. His Ma was a simple person with a very clear definition of right and wrong. So far she had played along, drawing from her own past and agreeing to his actions, but it was clear she was having second thoughts.


    Swapping the phone carefully from one hand to the other, he sat on the bed. He had to handle this carefully. His Ma didn''t know what was at stake. The last thing he wanted was for her to play a good samaritan and spoil all his plans.


    "I know Ma, but trust me this is not the right time, Dadaji won''t be able to take it," he spoke slowly, his voice filling with genuine concern. It was not difficult; he had come to care for the old man after all.


    "And Aditi...I want to see her happy, Ma. We owe it to her. She has suffered so much; I think it will be very cruel of us to snatch this little happiness from her. She will know when she knows but the least, we can do is to spare her the heartache until then."


    He kept talking, cajoling, convincing until his Ma fell into a silent agreement. Ten minutes later he dozed off with a smile on his face. He was worrying unnecessarily. All his Ma needed was a gentle reassurance, and maybe he too needed it at this moment.


    *****


    The night deepened as the storm slowly receded giving way to a light drizzle. In the little cottage in the woods, Zorawar moved from room to room carefully conducting his search.


    He started with the tiny guest room, there was nothing in there except for the model on the table. He spent an inordinately long time frowning at it before moving to the living room. This too was innocuous, if he''d gauged the occupant correctly, he was unlikely to leave anything remotely suspicious in the living room. Or indeed the cottage, Zorawar knew he was a bit too late in this. He should have conducted this search long ago, but his master had stayed his hand. And for all he knew, now it might be already too late.


    Jaw set in tight disapproval, he turned to the kitchen, pulling open the numerous drawers, cupboards, and fridge. The more he looked, the more he was convinced there was nothing of his interest here. The cottage was squeaky clean, the kitchen spotless; even the rubbish in the bins looked tidy. He took one look at the neatly labeled packages in the freezer before banging it shut.


    His disappointment rose in proportion to his suspicion. This was not a cottage of an innocuous bachelor holidaymaker. This was a cottage of a schemer, who had somehow his master wrapped around his little finger. In a few days, he would marry Aditi, and then it would be too late to stop him.


    He covered the small bathroom, then turned to the bedroom. He had high hopes here, there must be something hidden in the neatly folded pairs of clothes - thirty white t-shirts, with ten denim jeans - five blue, five black. A stack of neatly folded handkerchiefs sat next to the shirts along with a used clothes bin that was neatly tucked away at the back of the cupboard.


    Patiently, Zorawar pulled the bin, then pulled all the clothes out going through the pockets carefully. Nothing. Zilch, Nada!


    Grinding his teeth he tucked everything back in its place. It was clear his quarry was alert. He had either destroyed all the evidence or hidden it somewhere else. That somewhere else could either be the Range Rover that was currently parked at the Sharma Residence or that backpack of his that he carried everywhere like a third arm.


    Pursing his lips he swiped his eyes one final time, then came out locking the door with the spare key. He hadn''t found anything yet he felt his visit was useful. The lack of evidence could be the proof he was looking for. He just had to look harder. Smarter, and faster. He still had one week, that should be enough to find something to avert the disaster.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 39

    The next day, his teams arrived, and as expected, Rajeev was with them. He had made a point to come down to see what was going on.


    "So this is Palampur," Rajeev said standing on a green hillock as Darsh showed him around. His eyes widened with awe as they swept across the lush green countryside. "And all this land belongs to her?"


    "Half of it," Darsh answered. "The rest will go to her uncle and then to his children."


    "Pity," Rajeev tutted unable to cast his eyes away from the splendor. Darsh smirked. It was enough to blind anyone, and a man of Rajeev''s prowess, who as had sharp a nose as himself for anything that smelt money, was bound to be impressed. But Rajeev''s next questions caught him off-guard.


    "And what about Ananya?"


    Darsh stilled. That name still brought him jitters. Ananya, his Ananya! Well no, not his anymore, she hadn''t been his for the past six years, since when she''d jilted him for another man.


    "What about her?" He bristled. "That chapter was closed six years ago, Rajeev. She closed it herself. I have now decided to move on."


    Rajeev gave him a long look. "But are you really moving on? Because as far as I remember it was Ananya who closed the chapter, it was she who moved on, not you. The last I remember, you were still picking yourself up. I thought you''d healed when you told me of your engagement. I thought you had finally found love again. But now that I have seen all this," Rajeev''s waved his arm around, "I am not sure."


    Darsh felt his pressure building. Rajeev knew too much, maybe it was a mistake to let him come here. He was the only one privy to this part of his life, no one else knew, not even his mother.


    It was through Rajeev that he met Ananya seven years ago. She was Rajeev''s cousin, they had taken a job to construct a farmhouse for her family. He had fallen for her the moment he saw her. Rajeev had witnessed his madness, the craziness of his young heart. He was also a witness to his heartbreak when she left him for another man. It had been torture. If the one year of their togetherness was heaven, this was pure hell. Six years later, he still hadn''t found the courage to open his heart to another.


    Yes, his princess had come close but that was only because he needed her closer. She was his guardian angel, she was the one who''d see him through this darkness.


    "You can rest assured, Rajeev, that chapter is closed from my side too," he replied coldly. "I have a fianc¨¦e now whom I''m going to marry in a few days. She is everything Ananya never was - honest, loyal, a girl with a golden heart."


    "And filthy rich," Rajeev reminded tilting his head, "Not to mention insanely beautiful."


    "Yes, and that!" Darsh snapped. "I don''t understand your problem here, Rajeev. Are you jealous?" The words were uttered with supreme arrogance but Darsh cursed himself inwardly. Rajeev was not only his friend and partner but a mentor too. The man had given him his first job, his first promotion, his first partnership. If there was one person in the world apart from his Ma who he couldn''t accuse of any ill-will, it was Rajeev. Yet he had to do it. He had to shut these people up, he wished he could control their conscience as easily as he could control his own.


    "Don''t talk rubbish, Darsh," Rajeev looked visibly hurt. "I only want to make sure you are marrying for the right reasons. It''s important, it''s a decision of life, it''ll affect you both!"


    His voice stretched thin as if he couldn''t stress the point enough. The message was received and acknowledged but ignored with supreme audacity.


    "You are worrying unnecessarily, Rajeev," Darsh brushed him off. "My reasons are all genuine, I just told you."


    "Not unless you add love to the list," Rajeev said tightly.


    Darsh bristled. Love. That pesky, little emotion, that had always gotten the better of him. Neither could he keep it, nor could he let it go. He was stuck with it like his fianc¨¦e''s demons. They both were alike in this regard, neither here nor there, living in a present ruled by their past. She had her wound to show for it, he had his insults. The only difference was that she was nearly healed. His wounds were still festering, renewing, sucking the life out of him.


    "For your information, Aditi loves me." He tried to shirk away from his gloomy thoughts. "Love is already a part of the deal, without it, she would never have agreed."


    "So Aditi loves you," Rajeev interjected. "And what about you? Do you love her in return?"


    He turned his head away, to the sprawling green hills. After last night''s storm, the rain had given some respite. The day was bright, with a golden sun casting a hazy glow on the land that stretched miles and miles until the horizon. It was just like her, made of gold. And he loved gold. He loved everything golden.


    "Yes. I do love her," he said with a firm voice.


    Rajeev pursed his lips. "You can say that facing me."


    His head snapped. "That''s enough, Rajeev. I don''t think I have given you the permission to interfere in my personal life."


    "I don''t need your permission. I already have it considering you are my friend. I only have your welfare in my heart, Darsh..."


    "I don''t need you to worry about my welfare!" Darsh screeched, losing his mind. "I can very well take care of myself, thank you very much! You know why Ananya left me, right? Because she wanted money, she couldn''t wait for a green boy to earn the riches she desired. Her father called me a scoundrel, he couldn''t bear to see his precious daughter with a bastard. And now that I have a chance to rectify it all, you think I''d let it go?"


    Rajeev listened to him stunned, unable to form a reply. Darsh looked dazed as once again his tired eyes swept across the horizon.


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    "Do you even know what I''ll achieve after all this?" He waved an arm around, his eyes glinting in the golden sun. "Riches, wealth, connections! I will be shooting to the sky, reaching the stars! No, I will be a star, the North Star, immovable and unreachable, looking down on them from high above. No one would call me bastard then, no one would dare to call me a dog! Do you think I''ll let the chance go Rajeev? Only a fool would do that and I''m not one!"


    He felt his head whirring as the bright glare of the hot sun blinded his vision. He swayed on his feet, suddenly losing his balance on the rain-slick ground.


    He scrambled for help, his arms flailing to clutch the nearest object for support. Unfortunately, there was only Rajeev and he made no attempt to step forward. Rajeev crossed his arms and watched him with evident scorn. Darsh somehow regained his footing just in time without falling flat on his face.


    "You could have helped me...," he panted giving Rajeev a reproachful look. Rajeev shook his head.


    "No one can help a man who can''t help himself, Darsh. It''s been six years. It''s time you get a grip."


    Turning his back, Rajeev walked away. Darsh scoffed. He was in control, he had a grip on the situation as tight as ever. In a week he''d be married and all his demons would be shooed away.


    *****


    The rest of his day was as rotten as his morning, but Darsh trudged through it with a steely determination. No one could halt him now, no one could thwart his desires. His goal was set. This marriage will bring him what he had always craved. Love or no love, he''ll see to it that he got what he deserved.


    What did Rajeev know anyway? At thirty-five he was still single, having never found his ''the one''. He could wait for eternity and still may not find her. And even if he found her, what was the guarantee she would want him?


    Scoffing in irritation he stood in the hot sun as his team of workers fenced the village green. On the other side, another of his teams was busy erecting some sheds that were to act as a temporary site office.


    Lunchtime came and passed. Darsh continued his work in one of the newly built sheds, explaining his plans to his engineers, architects, and project managers. It was not just the hospital he was building, he had plans for a five-star hotel, a golf course, a luxury holiday resort, two restaurants, and even a mineral water plant in the hills near the temple caves. He couldn''t let all that sweet water go waste when he could make money out of it, could he?.


    Nearing the evening the workers left for their accommodations, which were to be the old cottages near the eastern side Aditi had planned to use for her hospital. It was unfortunate what happened, but her loss was his gain. And he had no regrets as he was making up for it with his charitable wing.


    The sun sunk low towards the west, the site was deserted when he heard Aditi''s jeep entering the premises. Her footsteps echoed nearing him, he found himself breaking into a relieved smile.


    "Thank god you are here. I was missing you." He realized he meant it when he pulled her closer for his long-awaited snack. Now that she was in front of him, he was suddenly realizing how hungry he was.


    She rolled her eyes and raised her arms to shove a basket between them. "I''ve got some real food. I think you need it more than your usual snack."


    Making a face he washed his hands, then helped her set up a little picnic on the grass outside. It was a simple fare of sandwiches, fruit, and juice. He ate to his heart''s content.


    "How was your day?" he asked as he sipped his juice. The orange glow of the sun cast her face with a rose-gold aura. He watched her mesmerized remembering their evening at the Sunset Point. She looked as beautiful as ever, but with one difference - that day she glowed with happiness riding Aron with the little boy, today she looked downcast.


    "It was okay," she chewed her lip. "I took Dadaji to Rajpur for a checkup. Some of his reports are not good."


    Darsh shook his head. Yes, Balwant Sharma had been looking peaky lately. He hadn''t taken the news well, just as Aditi suspected. It was inevitable in a way. The man loved Aditi, it must be horrible for him to come to terms with that incident. Shaking his head he glanced at her as she sat next to him fiddling with the grass. He wondered what she had gone through that night. He had never asked, he had never dared. It would be beyond his understanding anyway, something he was shielded from because of his male privilege.


    He decided to change the topic.


    "Any any plans for tomorrow? I heard some of your friends are coming?"


    "Yes," her face brightened. "Aalok is coming over, he''ll stay until the wedding. I am planning for a medical camp in one of the hamlets, it would be my last here."


    She looked wistful. Darsh stiffened, his face losing color.


    "Cancel it. You are not going anywhere with him."


    She looked at him in surprise. "But..I have already told him. And Deothan is not too far from here, just an hour''s ride. We should be back by afternoon."


    "I said no, Aditi! You are not going with him! I don''t trust your useless friends. That night none of them accompanied you, how could they leave you alone? Why did you go alone? It could have been avoided if you..."


    He clapped his mouth shut suddenly realizing his mistake. Her face lost its sheen, taking a dull pallor. Lowering her eyes she wrung her fingers. He cursed under his breath.


    "I''m sorry, Aditi. I didn''t mean to..."


    Swallowing a lump, she shook her head, then straightened herself to give him a determined look.


    "It''s okay. I realize I haven''t shared anything with you about that night. I know you are already aware of a lot of things, but...is there anything you want to ask?" Her lips quivered as she tried to keep calm, giving him a chance to speak. He felt his heart twist. Despicable though he was, he knew he wouldn''t be able to withstand her honesty for too long. Her innocence and honesty were commendable traits as long as he was not required to return in kind. It was better she kept her secrets, so he could keep his with a clean conscience. Moreover, he knew everything there was to know, there was no need to put her through the ordeal again.


    "I don''t want to know anything you are not comfortable telling."


    "I can try." Another honest assurance. Darsh pursed his lips.


    "It''s not necessary. Let''s just forget it ever happened, it''s not worth remembering anyway." Sighing to himself, he leaned forward to hold her hand. "Please Aditi, promise me you won''t go anywhere again. I have to get a lot done in the next few days, and I won''t be able to focus if you go adventuring with that good-for-nothing friend of yours."


    "Please, Darsh. They offered to come, but I asked them not to. They needed to catch the next train from Rajpur..."


    "Promise, Aditi." He didn''t want to hear any excuses. "I need a promise."


    She looked disappointed but gave a tiny nod. He felt relieved. The sun had sunk and grey dusk was shrouding them. The air was cool, fragrant with newly bloomed wildflowers and toasty earth. In other words, another perfect opportunity for him. He cast his eyes around to check if the coast is clear. She pulled her hand back to begin clearing up.


    "Let''s head back now. It''s getting dar..."


    She was unable to finish her sentence. Pulling her in his lap he claimed her rosebud lips, trapping her between his knees and chest. She struggled a bit then gave in letting him have his way. He smiled in her mouth tasting her sweet nectar. It was sweeter than honey, more fragrant than the wildflowers. Potent than his cannabis, more intoxicating than any liquor he had ever tasted. He could have drunk it forever, revitalizing himself with her essence, if not for that silly, loud jingle of a cowbell from a neighboring field.


    Startled, she pushed him away wiping her face, then gave him an annoyed look.


    Darsh smiled contentedly. Rajeev was stupid. This was no mistake. This was the wisest decision he''d ever made. This girl will bring him what Ananya had never brought - happiness, peace, prosperity, and eternal salvation. Only this girl had that power. This girl and no other.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 40

    The next day Aalok arrived. Aditi wondered how to inform him that she won''t be able to do the medical camp this time, but she need not have worried. Her Dadaji put his foot down and explicitly forbade her to go. She was to stay within a hundred meters of her room - it was a matter of tradition, his pride, and naturally, her safety. Apparently, he didn''t want her limping through her wedding ceremonies.


    Aditi grimaced. Neither Dadaji nor Darsh understood her need to do the camp. It was the last thing she wanted to do in her mother''s memory, the only thing she could think of now that everything else was taken over by Darsh. But it looked like her Dadaji and Darsh were of one opinion on this. They had already decided how she was going to spend her last week in Palampur, and she had no say over it.


    Heart clouding with disappointment, she sat at the dinner table that night as Darsh and her Dadaji discussed yet another project. As usual, Darsh sat on Dadaji''s right, a place previously reserved only for her father. The place on the immediate left was occupied by Mohit as Ravi Chachu was least interested in business talks. Instead, he was at this moment sitting furthest from his father giving Aalok a colorful account of the past three weeks, right from the day she fell at the racecourse to the trip to Badari, to Darsh''s proposal, and lastly the engagement. Vivaan''s incident too found a mention in the story making her cheeks flame further with embarrassment. Aalok''s quizzical eyes kept darting towards her every now and then but she kept her head low focusing on her food. She knew he was surprised and skeptical, but she had no explanation. She could not tell him the truth, nor could she explain her falling in love in three weeks.


    Moreover, she was keenly aware of Darsh''s attention on the conversation. It felt like he was on the edge since when Aalok''s arrival. Their introduction had been very brief and cold. Darsh hadn''t wasted a moment turning back to resume his conversation with Dadaji. Aditi chewed her lips as she glanced at Darsh. It was not his fault really. It was only natural that he was wary of her friends in the light of past events. It would take time to thaw the ice, she just had to be patient.


    Shaking her head she raised a bite to her mouth when Aalok''s question stopped her in her tracks.


    "So did you see Sam that night? How is he?" Aalok asked turning to her. "I tried to call Neil but it feels like he''s disappeared off the face of the earth. His phone is always switched off and I cannot get hold of any of them. Did you get in touch with them afterward?"


    The question was simple, nobody paid any attention. Well, nobody except the two people at the head of the table. Their conversation stopped abruptly as they turned to look their way. Her Dadaji''s face turned ashen, his fork dropped onto his plate with a clang as his fingers quivered with anger. His mouth opened to say something, but no words came out. Instead, he gave a piteous whimper and clutched his heart launching into another dreadful bout of coughing. Darsh pushed his chair back and shot up rubbing his chest and consoling him but not before throwing a furious look at Aalok. Aditi ran to her Dadaji her heart wrenching in fear.


    The next few hours were frenzied. Aditi watched numbly as Dr. Wadhwa and his new assistant struggled to control the situation. The night felt long and cold. The house was quiet as if already in mourning.


    Finally, in the early hours of the morning, Balwant settled and they let out a sigh of relief. All through this, Darsh held on supporting them like an anchor in the storm. Aditi stopped counting the number of times he had helped her. It was becoming clear he was a godsend, a savior without whom she would have sunk long ago.


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    *****


    As Balwant became bed-bound, the baton of responsibility passed seamlessly over to Darsh, the only other capable man in the house. Ravi didn''t mind as his life continued as before with Aditi transferring more money to him so as to stop him from pestering Balwant. Only his eyes became hungrier, it was not much time now when his father would finally drop dead and he would get hold of his share in the property.


    Mansi too looked like she was waiting with bated breath. She had been unable to find another benefactor after Dalpat Raisingh and her husband''s debts were mounting. Aditi was helping but Mansi knew it was not going to last long. Soon she would be married and the control of her wealth would pass to her formidable husband who already looked too shrewd for Mansi''s liking. Although the man was capable and his new projects in Palampur were a great launching pad for Mohit, Mansi wanted him gone asap. With Darsh and Aditi finally out of the way and Balwant bed-ridden, they would finally have the freedom they always craved for.


    With Balwant indisposed and Darsh being the groom, the wedding preparations passed to Mohit and Aalok. Nehal too stepped up filling in the little space Mansi was supposed to fill, or maybe her mother would have if she was still alive. Aditi wondered how different it would have been if her parents were alive. But everything around her reminded her they were not, and she should be grateful for her lot and move forward.


    And grateful she was, she agreed heartily, for her good fortune that she had met Darsh. That he was here to take care of her family and support her Dadaji. And that her family too was somehow being nicer, barring Mohit, she had not expected any of them to participate in the preparations.


    But the good luck did not last long. Bad news came in the form of Balbir, Grandpa Raisingh''s groom who''d handled the horses on the day of her fall. Now that grandpa Raisingh had folded his stay in Palampur, the young man needed to find another employment.


    "Of course, you can work in our stables," Aditi assured him as he sat in the living room. "Or you can work at the racecourse if that''s what you prefer. I can talk to the manager..."


    "No no, Aditi Di. I have already found work. I only came to..." He looked around surreptitiously to make sure they were not overheard. Aditi frowned.


    "What is it? Is it about Ratan Chacha''s health?"


    "No Aditi Di," he shook his head. "It''s about your fall that day at the racecourse. I found the reason why the horses misbehaved. It was..." He stopped again to purse his lips uneasily. Aditi waited patiently wondering what was it that made him so anxious.


    "That day you said there was nothing wrong with those horses. You were with them all the time right?" she prompted him gently. He shook his head.


    "Yes, Di. I was with them all the time and there was nothing wrong, nobody messed with them while I was there. It was only after your fall when I took the horses for grooming I noticed they had burn marks."


    "Burn marks? You mean they were sunburnt?" Aditi frowned. That must be it as she remembered it was an exceptionally hot day. The poor horses must have suffered in the heat.


    But Balbir shook his head. "No Aditi Di. They were not sunburnt. Those marks looked more like... they were from a laser gun. It looked like someone was messing with the horses as you rode them. The first two you rode escaped lightly but the third one had a large mark on his hind leg."


    The man''s voice turned to a whisper as his face paled. Aditi listened in stunned silence. Someone had tried to sabotage, they had caused the accident deliberately. She didn''t know what to think of it. For a cynical moment she felt relieved that it was not her fault, but the next moment the seriousness of the situation hit her like an ice blast. It was unbelievable for such a thing to happen in her own village under the nose of her own Dadaji!


    Someone had tried to kill her that day. She would have died if Darsh hadn''t been there at the right time to save her.


    Minutes passed as she sat in stunned silence. Her heart thudded with fear but soon overcame with relief. The incident was well past. She was safe. And no one had attacked her after that, luckily she had met Darsh who''d helped her at every step.


    Ten minutes later when Balbir left, she had warned him to keep his mouth shut.


    She couldn''t risk her Dadaji knowing it, neither did she need her fiance to go even more berserk.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 41

    Two days to the wedding, Aditi was taking a stroll in the garden when Zorawar walked toward her with Abdul in tow. Aditi''s face brightened. Abdul looked happy and carried a box of sweets which meant he had good news.


    "Congratulations!" Aditi beamed as Abdul came forward. Grinning from ear to ear, he opened the box to offer her a sweet.


    "Thank you, Aditi Di. It''s a baby girl. We have named her after you."


    Aditi felt embarrassed but was too overjoyed to object. She signaled Zorawar to send for some refreshments and motioned Abdul to a nearby gazebo.


    "So I take it the mother and baby are doing good? How is Sameena?"


    "They both are fine Aditi Di. The baby arrived yesterday. It was all your help that made this possible. We are both so grateful." Abdul smiled as he took a seat. His eyes swept around over the bustle of workers decorating the gardens. A big white marquee was being set up. Electricians, landscapers, and decorators were swarming around getting everything ready for the festivities starting the next day.


    Abdul turned to her. "And congratulations on your wedding, Aditi Di. It''s such a pleasant surprise. Looks like the baby arrived just in time to see you off."


    "Thank you," Aditi replied with a smile. For the past few days, since the news of the wedding was out, people were making a beeline to see her. Everyone brought something or else as a token of their love, but Abdul''s news was the best gift she''d received so far. She made a mental note of sending the new mother and baby some gifts later that day when Abdul suddenly cleared his throat. He looked a little worried. Aditi smiled. The man probably needed more help and was reluctant to ask.


    "Is there anything else, Abdul? You can continue to stay in Rajpur until Sameena recovers. If they can''t spare a bed at the hospital, I can arrange for another accommodation. And let me know if you need anything else. I''ll transfer more money to your account and when you want to return, let Zorawar know. He''ll arrange a vehicle for you."


    "No no, Aditi Di. It''s not that," the man''s face flamed with embarrassment, yet Aditi saw relief in his eyes. He cast his eyes around surreptitiously, then gave her a hesitant look.


    "Actually, there''s something else I want to talk about."


    "Yes? What is it?"


    "It''s about Jeevan Bathla''s accident, Aditi Di."


    "About the accident?" Aditi frowned. "What about it? That case is closed already, the police concluded the Raisinghs were behind the accident, right?"


    Moreover, Vivaan himself had as good as confessed it to her. He had threatened her and then caused the accident to get what he wanted. She would have almost given in if her Dadaji hadn''t put his foot down. A cold shiver ran down her spine. She had escaped just in time, or her fate could have been completely different today.


    "Yes, Aditi Di. I thought so too but I had my doubts." Abdul swallowed uneasily, then sat up straight. "You see, that day when you were in hospital after Jeevan Bathla''s accident, I heard a man talking about it. I was in the hospital pharmacy buying some injections for Sameena. The doctor had asked to get them urgently. I was waiting for the medicines when I saw a man a few feet away talking on his phone. He sounded angry. He said he had only asked for a small incident, not to break every bone in Jeevan''s body. He then told the man to disappear from Palampur and that he''d get his money soon."


    Aditi pondered as an unease crept into her heart. It must be one of Vivaan''s stooges that he used to do his dirty work. But then why would he care about Jeevan Chacha''s injuries?


    "Did you see his face? Do you know who he was?" She asked trying to keep her voice level.


    Abdul shook his head in disappointment. "No Aditi Di. He was facing away. I only saw his back. And by the time I paid for the injections he had already left. But I remember his voice - it was quite deep with a posh accent. He wore black jeans and a white polo shirt. And he was a tall man, very tall and strongly built."


    With that, he stopped talking as a server approached with refreshments. Half an hour later when he left Aditi had built up a blinding headache.


    *****


    White polo shirt, black jeans, tall and strong with a deep voice. There was only one man with that description she remembered from that day. He was the one who had found Jeevan Chacha in the early hours of the morning and admitted him to the hospital.


    But it was impossible; it could not be him. There could be many others with that description in and around that hospital, it could definitely not be Darsh.


    Or could he? She did not know what to believe anymore. She wanted to ask him, but how could she ask such a thing without offending him?


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    The day began to fade, the workers left leaving behind a part-erected marquee and an eerie silence. It looked more like an aftermath of a terrible storm than preparation for a celebration.


    She sat alone rubbing her aching temples, thinking back to the day of the accident, going over it again and again. Each minute event, interaction, and expression was fresh in her memory to the last detail. Yet everything felt muddied. The surface was shiny but something more sinister lurked underneath just out of sight. She wanted to find it but it remained stubbornly elusive - either her brain wasn''t functioning or her heart did not want her to believe what her brain already knew.


    Her throat felt raw as her eyes began to sting. How odd it was, one little speck of suspicion was enough to shake all her certainty. Like a black dot on a perfectly pristine landscape, it was a nagging presence that commanded all her attention and made everything else irrelevant.


    *****


    By the time she walked back into the house, it was well past dinnertime. She could hear merry voices emanating from the dining room. The servers bustled about carrying trays of food and drink. The house was packed, many of Dadaji''s friends, her relatives from her mother''s side, and her father''s friends too had arrived early.


    It was best to avoid them. She didn''t feel like she could face anyone just yet.


    She sneaked into a service corridor skirting the kitchen that would take her towards the staircase at the back when she was halted by Nehal''s scathing voice.


    "Di, where were you? Do you know what time it is? Dadaji has been asking for you for so long."


    Aditi turned to face Nehal. She looked dead tired. She had been on her feet the entire day overseeing the kitchens and the servers. Maybe it was her first time in days after Vivaan''s last visit. A surge of shame washed over her. The girl was probably still pining for Vivaan. What if he was innocent? What if she had punished him for someone else''s crime?


    "I''m sorry. I was just in the garden." She gave a strained smile but her apology probably made Nehal even more irritated. " And thank you for helping with the preparations, Nehal. You know you don''t have to overstress..."


    "Oh, give it a break, Di," Nehal snapped. "We both know I''m not doing it out of love for you. I am just so happy to see you finally gone, it''s just a matter of a couple of days anyway."


    Aditi looked stunned, not knowing what to say. But Nehal hadn''t finished.


    "And cheer up, Di. What''s up with that long face? Everything is happening for your happiness, everyone is running around for you. I think it should be reason enough for you to smile. Now buck up and smile or you''ll give Dadaji another heart attack."


    Throwing her another withering look, Nehal marched away. Aditi swallowed a lump and turned to the stairs.


    A few minutes later when Aditi entered Balwant''s room, she was composed and smiling. However rudely delivered, Nehal''s reminder was helpful. Everything was happening for her happiness. She''d better keep up appearances at least for her Dadaji''s sake.


    *****


    "Ah! There you are!" Balwant chirped as Aditi entered, her face shining with a gentle smile. As usual, her presence filled the room with warmth. Balwant felt his heart swell with pride. The girl had been the light of his life since the day she was born. Although she would be gone soon and then he would have only himself for company. Exhaling a shaky breath, he patted the empty space next to him. Aditi sat near him to hold his hand.


    "How are you feeling Dadaji?"


    "I am good now that I''ve seen you. Where were you?"


    "Just in the garden," her face clouded but the smile reappeared in an instant. "Nehal said you wanted to see me?"


    "Ah, yes. I wanted to talk to you about...things." Balwant paused, wondering how to proceed. Ideally, it was Meera or Susheel who would have had this conversation but in their absence, the task had fallen to him.


    "Whatever happened that night with those four boys...," Balwant faltered, then pursed his lips. "Are you fully recovered?"


    The girl looked at him askance as her face became as crimson with shame. Pulling her hand back, she hunched her shoulders as if retreating into a shell.


    "Yes, Dadaji." Her voice came in a bare whisper. Balwant sighed. The girl had been very brave to survive the incident without any help. But he did not want her to be alone anymore, and neither did he not her to be in such a situation again.


    "Good. It was an unfortunate incident, but I want you to put it back and look ahead. Remember life is long Aditi. You cannot cling to the past when moving to your future."


    "Yes, Dadaji." She looked solemn, she had already started acting on that advice. She was sensible enough yet he needed to tell her, drive home his point.


    "You need to learn to forget, forgive and move on, Aditi. You have been very brave but we both know you can be very impulsive."


    Her head snapped up. "I don''t understand Dadaji."


    "We both know what I am talking about Aditi." Balwant''s voice was stiff. "Vivaan''s incident was unnecessary. You acted rashly. Promise me you won''t do such a thing again. I do not want you to jeopardize your safety ever again."


    He looked at her pointedly waiting for her response. Aditi looked cornered but she was in no position to argue.


    "I promise, Dadaji."


    "Good." Balwant looked relieved but he was not done yet. "A marriage comes with responsibilities, Aditi," he continued as his eyes flicked to his wife''s picture that hung on the side wall. "It''s not a bed of roses, even for moneyed people like us. Each of us comes with our own share of burdens, some more than others. And god knows, you have enough of yours."


    Aditi looked at him puzzled, her innocent eyes watching him with surprise. Balwant felt his heart lurch. Innocence was a  dangerous virtue. People loved it so much that they were always ready to rob it. He wanted her safe. And if her safety came at the price of her freedom, so be it.


    "I want another promise Aditi, that you''ll stay with Darsh come what may," he outstretched his hand and she had to give in hers as a promise. He was cunning that way, he knew what he wanted and how to get it. At this moment, his health, his position, the situation, everything worked in his favor and he was going to use it to secure her future.


    "I know this wedding is rushed. You didn''t get enough time to know each other well. There might be things later that would surprise you. But know this: Darsh is a good man - hardworking, ambitious, maybe a little cunning but he has to be to survive in this world. I know he''ll take care of you, Aditi. So trust him and trust your instinct and everything would be fine."


    An hour later when Aditi left the room, Balwant was deep in sleep.


    For some reason she too was sleepy. The storm in her heart had vanished and in its place was a quiet calm. The Past was gone; her future beckoned. Whether this was the end or a new beginning, she was ready for it.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 42

    A day later, they got married in the presence of their elders, family and friends, not to mention the entire population of Palampur. This time too, Darsh made sure only to invite a select few of his acquaintances. Luckily, aunt Swetlana had decided to extend her holiday, and he ensured none of Vicki''s friends got the wind of it.


    Rajeev alone made the journey to Palampur for the second time in a week. But this time, Darsh wasn''t complaining about it. Rajeev''s calm and authoritative presence made up for any other absences.


    As the time approached, the crowd around him bustled in anticipation. He watched as his bride arrived wearing her mother''s wedding saree and jewelry. Needless to say, she looked like a goddess, glowing bright yet solemn, a picture of grace and elegance. As usual, the crowd sucked a collective breath to acknowledge her presence. His heart too went quiet as all his chaos subsided to make way for her.


    If ever he had believed in fairytales, it was now. He was floating on clouds, sprinkled with stardust, glowing with a light that shone from within. He had no idea happiness could be this blissful.


    As the priests chanted the holy hymns, Darsh eagerly put the red vermillion in her parting. Then came the mangal sutra, then the seven pheras around the holy fire, each for an oath of lifelong bonding and devotion. Some oaths he understood, but the rest went over his head. They did not matter anyway. All that mattered was the bond that tied them together, that established she was his for this life and the next several to come.


    The rituals over, they were ushered to a podium where people thronged, congratulating and wishing them luck. A few moments later, someone whispered into his ear about moving his car out of the way to give access to a catering van. Darsh did not pay much attention when he handed his car key and was again pulled back in the bustle. His days of basking in the limelight were starting, and he did not want to miss any of it.


    *****


    The crowd slowly subsided as the evening drew on. Aditi watched as Darsh was immersed in a passionate discussion with one of Dadaji''s friends. The conversation had moved on from wedding pleasantries to new ventures, projects, profits, and stock markets. Aditi exhaled. A businessman is never on holiday, she remembered his words as a small group formed around him, effectively pushing her to a side.


    "I think you should go and rest for a while. I don''t think your husband will notice," Sonal passed a dry remark, handing Aditi a glass of water. She hadn''t taken to Darsh much. Yes, he was handsome, she admitted, and had a knack of sweet-talking anyone he set his sights at. But other than being drool-worthy eye-candy, he hadn''t made much impression on Sonal.


    Aditi sighed. It was not Sonal''s fault. Darsh had given her the same treatment he had granted Aalok - a cursory nod before ignoring her completely. Aditi wished he''d been a bit more cordial, but that was not to be.


    "Let him be. It''s his first time meeting everyone. He has to be polite."


    Sonal humphed and helped her get down the podium, then disappeared into the crowd to find Rohit. Aditi walked up the stairs towards her room as her heart filled with weariness. Her legs were killing her and the heavy attire made her unbearably hot. But more than that, something else bothered her. She could not pinpoint it but it was there nagging her, making her restless. It was a feeling similar to the day she fell at the racecourse, only today it was much worse as if she was walking into heavy traffic with her eyes closed.


    She wished Kanta Chachi was here, but Chachi hadn''t been able to make it today. They had spoken on the phone, but it wasn''t the same. Chachi was worried. Jeevan Chacha''s recovery was not going smoothly, and Vandana''s college too was getting affected. Aditi naturally offered to help, but that was not enough.


    Her heart became laden with guilt as she took the last few steps to her door. That accident had many victims, not just Jeevan Chacha and his family but Vivaan and Nehal too. She herself had escaped lightly. While the others had lost so much, she had gained a husband, a ticket to a new life where all her past worries would be forgotten. And the culprit still roamed free. He could be the man she''d married today.


    Her heart filled with irritation. Why was she thinking all this now? What was the use? The deed was done, there was no turning back now. She had decided to trust Dadaji''s judgment. She had promised to trust Darsh. And if it meant walking on a highway with her eyes closed, then be it.


    "Di..." Someone called her name as she was about to open the door. Aditi turned to find Mohit climbing the stairs hurriedly after her.


    "Di, can you please keep this backpack with you? Zorawar found it in Darsh''s car." He handed her a black backpack, then gave her a mischievous grin. "By the way, we are decorating the cottage for you two to spend some time there. Any special demands from the new bride?"


    Her face heated as she ignored his question and took the bag. It wasn''t heavy, but it seemed a zip was broken. As she held it, the zip tore open upending the bag. Aditi watched as the contents fell out. There was a brown file with her name on it. A pouch labeled medicated cannabis that looked partially used. And a small metal pen-like object.


    "Wow! That''s a laser gun!" Mohit whistled as he picked it up. "That''s cool. I didn''t know Darsh liked these toys."


    He took the lid off and focussed it on the wall behind her. Aditi stared at the bright dot as it slowly burnt a tiny hole in the wallpaper.


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    *****


    A laser gun. A file with her name. And pouch of cannabis. What did it mean?


    Aditi stared in confusion as she stood in her room. It was decorated for her wedding night. Candles were ready to be lit at the right time. White jasmines and primroses trailed along the walls. The silk cushions, the curtains, the bedding everything was new, soft, and pristine. It all looked and smelt heavenly, so sweet that it made her sick.


    Why did Darsh need a laser gun? And what did he need the cannabis for? As far as she knew, he did not suffer from any of the diseases where cannabis was used for treatment. She herself was exposed to the substance only once when Darsh gave her the laddu in the Sarai. And now that she thought of it... Her heart nearly stopped.


    It could not be. He would never do it, it did not make sense!


    With shaking fingers, she picked up the folder and opened it. There were her name, age, qualifications, and hobbies; they took the first few lines of the first page. On a side was a small passport-sized photo that was probably from her college admission form. What she did not understand was the angry red cross on her photo. Whoever had done it must hate her with a passion; they had nearly stabbed her with the pen.


    The air turned frigid as a deadly chill rose through her spine. She wished she could breathe; she wished she could blink, but her body did not comply. Her feet stayed glued to the floor, and her eyes to the pages of the folder in front of her.


    A scalding burn started in her heart as her eyes moved to the next bit. They were her property details - her bank accounts, the details of her father''s investments, and her Dadaji''s innumerable assets. It was a lot. She had never seen it put together like that. In the margin at the top was her net worth, encircled a couple of times with a bold red pen, probably to emphasize how much the writer valued it.


    She stared at the number. She never knew she was worth so much. Or so little!


    The pain in her heart ripped through her body. The folder dropped to the floor as she lurched sideways, grabbing a side table for support. What was this, she did not know. It felt like so far she had been walking through a fog - a magical haze, a glamour that created the images for her to see. Now that it was suddenly cleared, her eyes were blinded by the dazzling light.


    So was this the ultimate truth after all? That her husband was a sham, his love was a bigger sham. All he wanted was money. If there was another rich girl in her place, he would have readily married her.


    Her breath stuck in her chest, her mind went blank. Yet an insane laughter bubbled through her throat. But this was amazing! It only proved you cannot run from your fate. She had escaped the clutches of Vivaan only to land with Darsh. She had escaped one fortune hunter only to be trapped by another.


    It was a revelation indeed, and at what an opportune time! She was just married but still a few hours away from her wedding night. Maybe she still had time to do something...but what would she do?


    Well, she could do nothing, her brain assured her calmly as if watching the scene from afar. It was her surgeon''s brain, calmly assessing the damage, weighing the options, and calculating the chances of her survival. Telling Dadaji the truth was not an option, it assured her, nor was running away. She could confront Darsh, but that was unlikely to end well. The house was full of guests and her Dadaji was ill. A small misstep would send everything up in smoke.


    She felt another hapless giggle building but suppressed it quickly. She should not laugh like this. It was pathetic, insane. This was a serious matter. She should be crying, wailing, cursing Darsh for his deceit. But she could not help it. It was so bad it was almost funny. Aditi Sharma, the Golden Girl of Palampur, the beautiful and rich heiress of unimaginable wealth was hunted down by a common fortune hunter. Nothing could save her, neither her wealth nor her famous family.


    Time stood still as she stood there trying to work out her own mind. It was confused, she knew that much. A part of her was laughing, mocking her viciously. Another part was sad, overwhelmed, trying to understand what just happened. Another part stayed quiet observing her carefully while another part tried to console her desperately.


    Things could not be this bad. She should not lose hope. She shouldn''t talk to Darsh. Give him a chance to explain.


    She wondered if this was what her parents would say if they were here. But they were not with her today. Perhaps they were too embarrassed now and preferred to stay hidden.


    Her thoughts vacillated between dead and living. Truth and false, brittle hope and sadness. She did not know how long she stood there when there was a knock on the door and a young maid peeped in.


    "Di, they are asking for you. The dinner is going to start soon."


    Her stomach churned. The charade was not over yet. The drama was still on. The stage was set and she was needed for the climax. She was the main character - the heroine- a stupid, gullible, helpless but beautiful girl - a perfect heroine material. And he was her knight in shining armor who had come to rescue her from the villains. All she had to do was be ready to be swept away and ride with him in the sunset. Now that didn''t require much work, did it?


    How perfect it was, how idyllic and elegant. All she had to do now was to play her part like a good girl. To be a perfect heroine and say her lines. Smile where she was required and be quiet the rest of the time. That''s what good heroines did, didn''t they? They did not ask questions, they did not demand answers. They did what they were told and lived happily ever after.


    Anger bubbled inside her, an insane urge to break something, hurt someone coiled her heart like a snake. Her face burned an ugly red, her nails stuck in her palm to draw blood.


    Maybe this was why her Dadaji had made her promise. Maybe he knew this all along. A clever and resourceful man like him would never be blindsided. Maybe this was what he meant by hardworking, ambitious, and cunning. The promise was probably more to protect his surrogate son than his rash granddaughter.


    Bitterness, anger, frustration- a myriad of emotions swirled around her, driving her crazy. A strangled scream escaped her throat, loud enough to alarm the maid, who hesitantly peeped again.


    "Di..?"


    "I''m coming!" She spat out a venomous response that drained the color of the girl''s face. She scurried away in haste as Aditi watched her like a hungry beast. Hungry, yet caged. Hunted down cruelly by a prize hunter. All that remained now was to chop the head off to hang on a wall.


    A dreadful calm consumed her. If that was what he wanted, he was in for a ride. She would not give up. She would find a way. Darsh Rathore would pay for this. In this life and the next several to come.


    Ten minutes later, when she came down, her face was lit with a coy bridal smile. Her makeup was fixed, her hair was re-done. She was ready to play her part. She smiled as she took her place next to her husband and fed him a bite. The climax was far away, this was just the interval. She would write her own script and make sure he followed it to the end.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 43

    The dinner went on well into the night.


    Aditi smiled and ate daintily, as was expected of brides. A couple of times, Darsh¡¯s mother came over to check on her. Like the last time, she was loving, sweet, dripping with honey.


    Aditi wondered if she too was in with her son in this drama. The mother-son duo might have planned this together. The rape story could be fake, just to set a common ground with her to curry her sympathy.


    But his name has always been Darsh Karuna Rathore, her still-sensible part chided her gently. The woman might be innocent; she too might have been fooled by her son like he had fooled everyone else.


    She scoffed. Whatever! It didn¡¯t make a difference. Karuna Rathore might have suffered the same fate as hers, but the son she had raised was definitely not worth it. She had done a terrible job. Maybe she would have been better off thinking of herself rather than her baby. Maybe she should have considered her options¡­


    ¡°Penny for your thoughts?¡±


    Darsh¡¯s gentle voice murmured in her ear. She turned her startled face to see a pair of dark eyes scrutinizing her.


    ¡°You are very quiet. Are you okay?¡±


    Under the table, his warm hand moved to cover hers in her lap. She felt her body going stiff. The warmth of his hand stayed with him; her skin refused to accept it. It felt wrong; this man, his words, this whole celebration was wrong. This was all a lie. The man was a fraud. He did not deserve to be here, at this table, sitting next to her, being her husband.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I¡¯m a little tired. I think I need some fresh air.¡±


    She got up and walked away. Fresh air, she did need, but she wondered where she could get it. People were everywhere, in the house, the gardens, and beyond. There was not a single place where she could hide in peace. Maybe her room, but even that sanctuary was forbidden after tonight.


    Her lungs screamed for air as she searched for a refuge. Unbeknownst to her, her legs took her to the library.


    She was about to enter when a gentle voice called from behind.


    ¡°Aditi, are you okay?¡±


    She turned to see Karuna Rathore standing behind her. Her face was creased with worry. Aditi had to admit she was as good at acting as her son.


    ¡°I am fine." Aditi stretched her lips into a thin smile that did not reach her eyes.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Karuna looked anxious. ¡°You look unwell, Aditi. Your face is¡­¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with my face?¡± Aditi cut her short with a casual contempt that made Karuna flinch. Did she detect the hostility in her demeanor? Aditi wondered curiously.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Karuna spluttered. ¡°Nothing¡¯s wrong. In fact, you look beautiful. It¡¯s just that¡­ I thought you were a little distracted at the dinner. You didn¡¯t eat much and your eyes too looked puffy¡­¡±


    How clever! Aditi marveled. The woman was perceptive, almost as observant as her son to see through her facade. Maybe it was a trait that ran in the family - like mother, like son.


    She tilted her head as a little plan formed in her head. She had to start somewhere, and this seemed like a good place.


    ¡°Actually¡­ there is something that¡¯s bothering me, Ma.¡±


    The way she stressed the last word, Karuna¡¯s face lost its sheen. Aditi smirked.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing to worry about, Ma. It¡¯s just that... I would like to spend some quality time with you. You see, everything happened so fast, I and Darsh got hardly any time to talk. I am ashamed to say I don¡¯t know much about your life in Delhi.¡±


    She took Karuna¡¯s hand and led her to the quiet library. For a moment, the woman hesitated, but Aditi pressed on regardless.


    ¡°You must tell me all about yourself. I have so much to know, so much to learn from you. I can¡¯t wait to get started.¡±


    They entered the library and Aditi shut the door behind them. She motioned Karuna to an armchair, but the woman did not sit.


    Instead, she stared at the closed door, then at Aditi¡¯s ice-cold eyes.


    ¡°I think I just remembered something important, Aditi. I have to go¡­¡±


    ¡°Sit, Ma. And tell me. How did Darsh hear of Palampur? He told me he came here on a holiday; does he often holiday alone¡­? That¡¯s a bit odd, isn¡¯t it? And earlier someone mentioned your sister and her son. Why are they not here today?¡±


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    Aditi settled herself in an armchair and tapped her fingers thoughtfully as she waited for answers. The woman¡¯s son had an entire file on her and it was high time she did some digging of her own.


    *****


    A couple of hours later, the party ebbed. Guests began to leave; the sound of leaving cars replaced their merry laughter. From her perch on the dark library¡¯s windowsill, Aditi saw lights flickering through the trees as they ran along the length of the driveway before disappearing into the night. A sickle moon floated through wisps of clouds; the stars too peeped now and then making their presence known. Slowly the night became quiet, so quiet she could hear her own thoughts.


    She wished she couldn¡¯t. At this moment, she could not stand the depravity of it all.


    He was Vicki¡¯s cousin. He had come to Palampur seeking vengeance. There was no love. There had never been any scope for love. He was a man of this world who saw her as a tool to achieve his goal.


    It all made sense now, it was plain and simple. She wondered why she hadn''t seen it before. It was a jinx - first Vivaan, then those boys, and now Darsh. It was a vicious game her destiny played as it tossed her from one man to another and laughed at her expense. How she wished she was spared for once, but it was not to be.


    Sighing, she rested her aching head against the glass of the window, then pressed her cheek to it to feel the cool touch. A lone tear escaped her eye as she stared away into the dark. She wondered how it would be to lose herself in it. To disappear into the abyss never to see the light of day again. The idea appealed to her haunted heart but it was not to be. She could not cross the glass barrier. It was a beautiful barrier, too fragile, too easy to shatter to pieces but impossible to put back once broken.


    She had to stay contented watching from here. The other side was not for her.


    She ran a tongue on her parched lips and continued staring into the abyss. The grandfather clock in Dadaji¡¯s study chimed twelve times to announce midnight. The lull of the night soon began to overpower her as she struggled to keep her eyes open. A peal of laughter sounded in the distance as servants started for home.


    ¡°Di! What are you doing here?¡±


    Nehal¡¯s irritated voice jolted her out of her stupor. Aditi looked in confusion.


    "I... Umm.."


    ¡°Do you know what time it is?" Nehal cut her short. "Darsh went upstairs an hour ago. I thought you''d be sensible at least on your wedding day, but no. Why are you so adamant to embarrass everyone every time?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯ll go now.¡±


    She got up and walked towards the door as Nehal¡¯s cold eyes watched her with disdain. Her respite was over. It was time to face her husband.


    *****


    She entered the room to find Darsh pacing it frantically. Some candles had burned down some had blown off by the breeze. A half-burnt, smoky smell overpowered the flowers that already looked wilting on the walls. The sheets were still pristine though, without a single crease.


    Some wedding night it was! She smirked in derision as her eyes went to the black bag lying at the foot of the bed.


    ¡°Oh, you found the bag! Did you check the contents?¡± she asked solicitously as she moved closer to take a better look. The zip was still open, a corner of the brown folder peeped from it.


    ¡°I hope everything is as it should be. Zorawar found it in your car and sent it to me for safekeeping but I¡¯m sorry I was a bit clumsy. The zip is torn, we¡¯ll have to get it fixed before you can use it again.¡±


    Without waiting for his answer, she went to the bathroom to change. Ten minutes later when she was done, he was sitting on the bed staring at his feet.


    His head snapped up as she came out.


    What will he say now? There would be denials first, then angry tirades. Then explanations, maybe apologies. Huh, she knew it all.


    ¡°It¡¯s not what you think Aditi. I can explain¡­ ¡±


    She stifled a snort. How predictable. And boring.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to explain Darsh. I know everything. You see, I just had a chat with your mother. That¡¯s why it took me so long. I¡¯m sorry to keep you waiting.¡±


    He watched her stunned. She smiled and went to the dresser to finish her nightly routine. Now that she looked at herself in the mirror, she found Karuna was right. She did look unwell; her face was a ghastly shade of pale yellow and her eyes looked like she¡¯d been crying for hours.


    Sighing, she rubbed some cream into her skin, then opened her hair to comb through it, all the while keenly aware he was standing right behind her, merely a foot away.


    ¡°What did you tell Ma?¡± He asked as their eyes met in the mirror.


    She shrugged. ¡°I did not tell her anything. But she told me a lot: about your life in Delhi, about your aunt and Vicki. I am sorry he is in hospital; it must have been a nasty shock for you.¡±


    His face paled as he stared dumbfounded. She continued with her combing assiduously.


    Her mother used to comb her hair for hours to keep it shining bright. She said it was therapeutic, it helped to soothe the stress of the day. At the time Aditi was too young to understand but tonight she found it to be true. Her head was getting calmer, the pain was much more bearable. So much that she nearly forgot she was hurting.


    ¡°And yes, I have called the Fortis Hospital and asked them to assign a specialist for Vicki,¡± she added as an afterthought. ¡°In fact, I wonder if we should move him to a private hospital, it would be much easier to monitor his progress. I have also spoken to Sonal¡¯s dad - he is the dean of my college and an expert neuroscientist. He said he would be happy to help.¡±


    There. The combing was done; she braided her hair in a loose plait. He still looked dazed as if someone had hit him on the head.


    "Aditi...I... what are you saying? I don''t understand.."


    ¡°And¡­I have a request to make." She smiled sweetly as she turned to him. "I¡¯d like to sleep in Nehal¡¯s room tonight. It¡¯s my last day here and the girl is quite upset. I hope you don¡¯t mind?¡±


    She thought he would agree quietly, after all, she had given him enough to ponder upon for the rest of this night. But his eyes came alive as if he¡¯d woken up from a dream.


    "That''s enough!" He thundered as he shot forward and grabbed her arms in a vice-like grip. ¡°What are you playing at? You''re not going anywhere, you understand? I know you are lying, that sister of yours doesn''t give a shit about you. So stop this nonsense and tell me...¡±


    ¡°I am going Darsh,¡± she stressed each word with as much conviction as she could muster. She hoped he would understand, she did not want to spend another minute in this room.


    Shrugging herself out of his grip, she took a step back to give him a cold look. ¡°You can spend the night here, there¡¯s everything here you could possibly need. If anything''s missing, feel free to ring the bell for a servant. Just don''t make a fuss about it as Dadaji needs to sleep undisturbed. Good night now, and I¡¯ll see you tomorrow.¡±


    She turned and walked out, not to Nehal¡¯s room but back to the library to curl up on an armchair. The night was growing on her and she couldn''t wait to drown in the lullaby.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 44

    The next morning Aditi found herself climbing the steps of a posh building in Rajpur. A shiny black board adorned the outside wall displayed the name of the owners in golden letters - ''Dawar & Dawar Legal Associates''.


    She had never been to Uncle Dawar''s office before. Her Dadaji preferred to conduct his legal business from home and the lawyer had always been happy to visit whenever her Dadaji needed. Today, on the second day of her marriage climbing the steps to his office felt weird. People were watching her curiously.


    She straightened her back and put on her signature smile on her face. The receptionist rushed to welcome her and pointed to her employer''s chamber.


    "Aditi! What a surprise!" Dawar''s face broke into a wide smile as he got up to greet her. A slight narrowing of his shrewd eyes told her he too was thinking the same as others - what on earth she was doing in a lawyer''s office on the second day of her marriage.


    She swallowed and put forth a parcel she had carried for him. "I have got some Jalebis and Samosas for your employees. Many of them could not attend yesterday, so I thought..."


    "Aah! thank you so much!" the lawyer''s eyes sparkled as he took the parcel and opened it. A heavenly aroma of spice mixed with sugar wafted out and he licked his lips.


    "I must say I can never have enough of these. Meera often used to make these for me. She knew my love for snacks. Yesterday I wished she was at the wedding..." He stopped in time to realize his mistake and shook his head. "But what am I saying? You must have missed your mother more than anyone else."


    Aditi stretched her lips in an obligatory smile as he rang a bell for a helper to send the food out. Her eyes were stinging again. Yes, she missed her mother but was actually relieved she wasn''t there. It would have broken her heart to see her daughter married to a ruthless gold-digger.


    "Actually uncle...I am here to talk about something," Her fists clenched tight to stop her hands from shaking. "I need your advice... about the marriage."


    "About your marriage?" The lawyer''s eyes narrowed.


    She pursed her lips and looked away. "I was wondering if it could be... undone."


    Dawar frowned. "Undone?"


    "Yes."


    "You mean divorce?"


    "Yes. I want out."


    The lawyer stared, then gave an exasperated sigh. "Now look here, young lady. I thought you are a sensible woman but apparently, I was wrong. No wonder Balwant thinks you impulsive. You got married yesterday. Yesterday, for god''s sake. And today you are here asking for a divorce? I must say I am very disappointed Aditi. I didn''t expect this from you."


    "But uncle..."


    "Don''t uncle me, girl. And listen to me. This is no way to handle your life. You just need time to adjust. If it is about the physical part of the marriage you are unhappy with, you can get help. You are a doctor yourself. But this is no reason to..."


    She wished the ground would open and swallow her whole. Her face burned with shame, anger, and frustration.


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    "It''s not that uncle. I have valid reasons..."


    "And what are those reasons if I may ask?" The lawyer''s voice was scathing.


    She swallowed dryly.


    "I think... Darsh only married me for money." Her face clouded in shame as if it was her fault. It must be if he thought it was the only reason to marry her.


    To her horror, the lawyer relaxed visibility. He leaned back in his chair and gave her a pitiful look.


    *****


    An hour later when she came out of the office her heart was numb. Her face was frozen in an effort to stop the muscles from moving. Any slight give would let the tears out. And then her secret would be out. Her shame will be in front of the whole world to see and jeer.


    "I am sorry to say this Aditi, but what did you expect?" Uncle Dawar had said as gently as he could. "Pardon me for being so blunt but any man who''d marry you would marry for money. There are hardly any who''d look beyond that, and those who do will only see your beauty."


    She listened to him in humiliation, her skin crawling with a sticky, sickly shame that refused to budge. She hated those words, oh how she wished they were not true.


    He''d looked sympathetic as he pushed her a glass of water.


    "I know you kids nowadays set so much store by love. But take it from me, in marriage matters, practical considerations always take precedence. Love comes much later. Many times it doesn''t come at all. And most of the time it does not matter in the end. All that matters is safety, stability, and a secure future. You might call me old-fashioned but money is important. And although I am not a fan of your husband, I respect him for getting his priorities straight."


    He''d gone for ages while she had sat there looking out of the window. The sky was blue, the sun was shining. It was a beautiful, warm day. Yet her heart was frozen. His words slid on it without taking grip. She wondered if they spoke the same language; if those words had the same meaning that she once thought.


    "Love is a nice to have. Money is a necessity."


    "Your parents were an exception, not everyone is so lucky."


    "Your husband has the guts to go for what he wants. Respect him and you''ll learn to love him."


    "Think of your Dadaji. Will he be able to take it?"


    This last one had clicked somewhere and brought her out of her stupor. She wrenched her eyes away from the bright day back to the lawyer.


    "You have to stay in this marriage Aditi," the desperation was now evident on his face. "It''s not just your life, but your family''s fate too depends on it."


    "Meaning?" She was confused.


    Uncle Dawar looked extremely uneasy. "Meaning there is no way you can get out of this Aditi. It''s too late. I had warned Balwant, I had warned him not to rush but he wouldn''t listen."


    "What do you mean it''s too late?" Her voice became weak with apprehension. The lawyer sighed.


    "It''s like this. Your grandfather has made a will. If he becomes bedridden and invalid, Darsh will get power of attorney. If anything worse happens, the entire property will go to trust and Darsh will be calling the shots. You''ll still have your mother''s property but Ravi and his children will be left at Darsh''s mercy. If you are not there to control him... well you can imagine what could happen."


    She stared at him speechless while her brain worked out the extent of the damage. Dawar shook his head.


    "As I said, it''s too late to do anything now. You can try to talk to Balwant if you are brave enough but that will only expedite the inevitable."


    *****


    The pleasant morning soon turned into a scorching afternoon. Aditi walked on the dusty road not knowing where her legs were taking her. The roads were busy, people honked at her and gave her strange looks as they went past her. Some who knew her were surprised. Others leered as if she was dog''s meat, muttering suggestive remarks only she could hear.


    She hardly noticed. It didn''t matter where she was going as long as she was walking. It gave her at least some semblance of control, some fleeting sense of freedom that kept eluding her forever.


    She entered a dilapidated roadside cafe and sat. A scrawny boy of unknown age brought her some water. She gulped it gratefully, her throat was parched from all the walking in the heat. Sometime later he returned with a cup of tea, then he came after every half an hour to replace the cup.


    People came, ate, gawked at her, and left. She sat in silence staring into some void, drinking the cups of sweet tea. Her life had come to a standstill. She might as well enjoy the devastation in peace.


    And that was how Darsh found her a few hours later. His face was thunderous as he paid the bill and dragged her out of there back to his world.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 45

    They didn''t go home. Instead, he took her to Hunter¡¯s Cottage which Mohit had decorated for their honeymoon. Aditi smirked. Hunter¡¯s Cottage. How apt the name was! And how efficient its current occupant was in keeping up with his ghastly trade.


    She sat in an armchair pulling her knees to her chest and staring at the green forest out of the window. The afternoon was waning, slanting sunrays danced on treetops swaying in the wind. Birds chirped over the soft burble of a nearby brook. Behind her, in the kitchen, her husband cooked. The sound of the clinking utensils mingled with the music as her mind began to drift off.


    ¡°Don¡¯t sleep.¡± His voice woke her up as she sat up blinking. A bowl of steaming soup was placed in front of her as he gave her a look.


    ¡°Eat. You need food.¡±


    His voice was calm, but she recognized the underlying tension. He was on the verge. She wondered why. Maybe because he had to spend this mandatory time here when he could be at the village green overseeing his workers. Time was money. And his time was gold.


    She picked up the bowl and ate obediently. Then gulped the two painkillers that were handed to her. Was she in pain? She did not know. Everything was so numb she hardly knew how she felt.


    ¡°We need to talk.¡± The order came curtly. She nodded her head. It was about time.


    ¡°What were you doing at the lawyer¡¯s?¡±


    Laughter bubbled in her throat. Could it be that he actually didn''t know? The way things were, she had assumed his spies were everywhere, on the roads, in that roadside shack, even in Uncle Dawar¡¯s office. It was a surprise, yet she didn''t want to reach a conclusion just yet.


    ¡°I took Uncle Dawar some snacks. Many of his staff were not able to attend yesterday so took them some Jalebis and Samosas.¡±


    Her eyes crinkled as she watched him fuming. A blue vein popped on his forehead as he pursed his lips.


    ¡°I think we can agree this is not a time for jokes Aditi. I¡¯ll ask again: what were you doing at Mr. Dawar¡¯s office?¡±


    She sighed and straightened her face.


    ¡°I went to ask him if I could get a divorce. I told him my husband married for money, so I wanted to know what my options were.¡±


    He looked dumbstruck. She could see the cogs of his brain working to process her response. She smirked.


    ¡°But don''t worry. I have good news for you. It seems I am stuck with you forever. I cannot escape unless you get bored and decide to cast me off.¡± She tapped a finger on her chin thoughtfully. ¡°Or unless I get bored first and commit suicide.¡±


    ¡°Stop it, Aditi! If this is a joke, you must know it''s very low in taste.¡±


    She rolled her eyes. Who cared about his taste?


    ¡°But it¡¯s not a joke Darsh. I am very serious. So what do you think I should do?¡± she continued curiously as if analyzing a dead-end case. They had such assignments in college when they had to find the best possible way to treat a terminal patient. You have to decide whether it was worth keeping them on a ventilator. Most of the time, the practical answer was to pull the plug and vacate the bed for the next patient.


    She shook her head. Pulling the plug sounded tempting but she would not just be ending her life, she would take her Dadaji too with her. So that option was ruled out. She had but one option left now - hoping that he would let her go, eventually.


    That eventuality might come when he¡¯d grabbed all of the property - not just her share but her cousins¡¯ too. And then he would want her mother¡¯s property, that went without saying.


    She sighed. She would have signed it over to him in a fraction of a second but that didn''t solve the problem. Her cousins did not deserve this. The price of her freedom should only be paid by her, not by other innocent people.


    She licked her parched lips and looked at him, her desperation oozing out of her heart like pus from a throbbing wound. How handsome he looked, with his muscles taut with tension showing the contours of his sculpted body. The planes of his face at sharp contrast with its angles as they contorted with fury. His eyes were deep, so deep she would drown in them if she stared too long.


    Yes, he was still the most handsome man she''d laid her eyes on. So devastatingly handsome yet so desperately unattainable. She could touch him if she raised her fingers, yet such was her fate that he would remain untouched.


    He was not for her. Even when they were now bonded for life, he would always remain a distant dream. A mirage that looked beautiful from afar but vanished when she neared it. It was futile. It was never meant to be.


    A throbbing pain started in her heart that made its way out of her eyes. She had never known she yearned so much. That her heart ripped apart every time she saw his face. That her body came alive every time he touched her. Every time he kissed her she received a new lease on life. She had never realized when he¡¯d come to mean so much to her.


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    Her body spasmed as hot tears rolled her desolate cheeks.


    He sighed and bent down to pull her up.


    ¡°Listen to me, Aditi. I had no idea about Dadaji¡¯s will. I knew he was worried after Vivaan¡¯s incident and was spending time with his lawyer but trust me, I never knew¡­¡±


    ¡°Trust you?¡± she gave a mirthless laugh that made the hair on the back of his neck stand in alarm. ¡°The day I trust you again will be the last day of my life Darsh. Let¡¯s get this clear - I am staying in this marriage only for my family. The day that burden is lifted, I will be gone. And that is a promise.¡±


    She shirked his hands to take a decisive step back, then turned away without sparing him a glance. His empty arms fell to his sides as he watched her ashen face.


    *****


    What was happening, he did not know. How had all his plans come crumbling down? His Ma had left this morning unable to face anyone. There was an emergency in her NGO at Delhi, she¡¯d said, but Darsh knew she couldn¡¯t hide her guilt.


    ¡°Talk to Aditi,¡± she had said before leaving. ¡°Bring her home. We have wronged her. It¡¯s now our responsibility to set things straight.¡±


    What she meant was that he had wronged the girl. And that it was his responsibility now that she was his wife. Darsh sighed. Where he had counted on his mother to help him pacify Aditi, she had left him alone to deal with this mess.


    He scoffed as he glanced at his wife who had made her bed on the sofa - a jumbled nest of blankets and pillows that kept falling at the slightest move, clearly, the princess was not used to sleeping in such a narrow space. She had changed into her pajamas, a girly cotton t-shirt that kept riding up at all the right places at the wrong times. And her baggy joggers that no doubt were supposed to make her look as unappealing as possible just did not work.


    Well, it was all futile, he smirked. She had no idea what effect she was making on him.


    Sighing, he wrenched his eyes away and focussed on tidying the kitchen. Cleaning the hob, wiping the worktop - all such menial sundry jobs helped him center his mind. Organization was important, preparation was a must. Any mess can be sorted with the right mindset, that was his motto.


    Yes, that was the way to go. He just needed a plan. He had expected this anyway, one day or other his secret was supposed to be out. Only now it was a double whammy, his secret was out along with his brother¡¯s. The insurance of his good behavior was forfeit. He needed to reorient; he needed a fallback plan.


    Ten minutes later when he approached her, he had that plan - another beautiful, intricate, and exciting design that he had prepared just for his princess. It was probably his simplest and best so far. And so the chances of success were nearly one hundred percent.


    *****


    Aditi cursed as she bent for the tenth time to pick up the pillow.


    Her back still hurt from her night in the armchair and tonight as well she had banished herself to this sofa. She wished she could kick out the imposter from the master bedroom and occupy that big bed, but to be frank, she was scared. It was better to stay away from that room, from that man as much as possible. After all was said and done, he was still her husband, he would be within his rights if he decided to act smart.


    Muttering under her breath, she adjusted the pillow when her eyes landed on two slippered feet on the floor. She looked up to find her husband staring at her.


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Do you need an invitation to come to the bedroom or should I carry you?¡±


    She thought she heard him wrong. ¡°Wh¡­What?¡±


    He gave a bored expression. ¡°I asked you, wife, if you need an invitation to come to the bedroom. I can carry you if it¡¯s too much of an effort for your delicate legs.¡±


    She sat up straight, the pillows and blanket forgotten.


    ¡°If you think I¡¯ll let you touch me after what you¡¯ve done¡­¡±


    He gave a yawn. ¡°I have done nothing¡­ wrong. If you decide to believe that folder more than your husband... ¡±


    ¡°That was your folder, Darsh. That was your bag, your laser gun that you used at the racecourse in an attempt to kill me. And it was your cannabis that you drugged me with that night in the Sarai when you gave me that laddu.¡± Her eyes filled with tears, her heart with revulsion. How vulnerable had she been! How na?ve, and easy to catch! No wonder she was in this mess. Stupid girls like her deserved to be punished.


    She turned her eyes away. ¡°Please leave me alone.¡±


    ¡°I never did it,¡± he said after a pause. ¡°I never tried to kill you. Yes, I used the laser gun, once, to disturb Aron on your way to Badari, but I kept missing it. The path was so winding¡­¡± He fell silent waiting for her reaction. She opened her mouth in a comical ¡®O¡¯ that wouldn¡¯t shut.


    His face almost showed a sheepish smile before he adjusted his expression.


    ¡°But it didn¡¯t work, I couldn¡¯t aim properly. Aron going berserk was entirely your fault. You had loaded him so much any horse would go crazy.¡±


    She managed to shut her mouth


    ¡°What else have you done?¡±


    He looked at her shrewdly. ¡°A few things. If I tell you, would you come to bed?¡±


    ¡°In your dreams.¡± she spat outraged. ¡°But I might answer a question for question, that is if you have anything to ask.¡±


    He smiled. Yes, he had questions. A lot of them - about that night. He had been a fool to be so complacent for so long.


    ¡°Fine. But remember our condition ¨C answer for an answer.¡±


    ¡°Yes yes,¡± she cut him impatiently. ¡°Now hurry up.¡±


    He swallowed an uneasy lump. ¡°Your Dadaji knowing about that night - it was Zorawar who told him about the incident, but it was I who made Dadaji question him. Otherwise, Dadaji would never have known about the boys.¡±


    She did not know when she got up on her feet. Taking a step closer she stood in front of him,  so close he could feel the heat on her skin, the rapid beat of her heart as it raced in its cage. He gulped. He knew what was coming.


    ¡°You spineless bastard! How could you?¡± her words whipped him like a lash. He was about to stumble backward when she grabbed his collar.


    ¡°Do you know what you have done? You could have killed Dadaji, you could have sent him into another major attack. And not only that¡­¡± her face cleared as it dawned with the new realization. The biggest casualty of his deeds was her dream of the hospital.


    ¡°Did you also tell Dadaji to remove me from the clinic?¡± she asked tilting her head as the pressure on his neck increased. ¡°Tell me, did you? And whose idea was it to scrap my hospital in favor of yours?¡±


    He looked ashen-faced, his brow dotting with sweat beads. He wished she would release his throat; it was getting difficult to breathe.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t ask him to scrap yours. I merely presented mine in a better light.¡±


    She scoffed as a deep guttural sound escaped her throat. Her eyes streamed as they stared at him without blinking.


    ¡°You are a scoundrel, Darsh, do you know that? You are a filthy, third-class scoundrel who had no right to be here. You should go back to the filthy alley you came from. I wish I had never met you, I wish I¡¯d never had the misfortune to set my eyes on you.¡±


    She left his throat only to slap him hard. Then dragged her hands on his face making sure her nails drew blood everywhere they touched his skin.


    ¡°I hate you Darsh Rathore. I hate you from the bottom of my heart, from the bottom of my soul. And I''ll make you pay for this. One day, I¡¯ll make you pay for this.¡±


    ***** *****

 Chapter 46

    Darsh swayed as his mind buzzed with emotion, a red film of excruciating pain clouding his brain. Her words pierced his heart like a knife then twisted round and round to make sure the devastation was complete. Then the knife was drawn out mercilessly only to plunge hard into his heart. He couldn''t breathe, he couldn''t think. He couldn''t do anything but stare and let her have it out without lifting a finger to defend himself.


    Liar. Scoundrel. A Spineless Bastard!


    All his life he was at the receiving end of such words but today they hurt like hell. Maybe because he knew he had earned them. Never before in his life had he deserved them more.


    To his horror his eyes were wet. His face was awash with shame that he just couldn''t hide. There was no need to hide it anyway as no one was even looking. She had stormed out in the dark night, barefoot, angry, eyes streaming with tears. He wondered where she''d gone; when she would return; or if she would return at all.


    He staggered to the sofa and sat clutching his head. He had made a mistake underestimating her pain. And he had made a mistake undermining just how much her reaction would hurt him. He never knew he was so vulnerable, so damn soft, after Ananya had left him he thought he had hardened himself but apparently that was not the case.


    The pain was unbearable, almost a physical blow. He felt like sliding to the ground and curling into a pathetic ball.


    The morning found him in exactly that state. He was on the cold floor curled up into a ball but by some miracle, the blanket had slid from the sofa to cover him. He was stiff but relatively warm.


    Rubbing his aching neck he stood up. The door was still ajar. There was no sign of her.


    He shot out in panic to find her sitting on the steps leaning against a wooden post of the railing. Luckily it hadn''t rained so she wasn''t wet but her pasty face and sunken eyes told him the story of her night.


    Sighing, he stepped closer.


    "Come inside. We haven''t finished our talk."


    His voice came out surprisingly soft but it didn''t look like she cared. She got up and walked inside, unsteady on her feet. He noticed her limp had returned - maybe the cold had aggravated the pain in her thigh.


    He tried not to look and stormed inside. To hell with her pain. To hell with her injury. If the girl was hot-headed and headstrong it was not his fault.


    Half an hour later when she finished her bath and came out, she looked slightly better. The color was back on her cheeks, her eyes looked less haunted. The face was still haughty though as if she would rather be anywhere but here.


    Annoyed, he thumped a cup of hot tea in front of her. A couple of scalding drops promptly landed on his hand and he hissed out in pain.


    "You don''t have to do this for me," she commented drily. "I have hands, I can make my own food."


    "Fine," he snapped. "I''ll keep that in mind. Now back to our talk..."


    "There is nothing to talk about."


    "Yes, there is. I answered your questions, all of them. Now it''s your turn."


    "Forget about it, Darsh. I am not answering anything."


    "Aditi, you promised!"


    She looked bored but her eyes flashed with annoyance.


    "Well, I have changed my mind. Why don''t you ask those who sent you here in the first place?"


    "I will." He pursed his lips. Yes, that was the first thing on his new to-do list. But before that... "But first I want to know your truth."


    "My truth!" she laughed as if it was the funniest thing in the world. "Since when are you interested in my truth? I offered it to you once, remember? But you did not want it. Now I have nothing to say."


    He signed. "Look Aditi, I know you wanted to tell me but I was not interested. I''m sorry about that. I thought I knew it all. The reason I gave you cannabis was to find out about that night. I was angry and scared. It was my only option." He felt wretched giving all that explanation. It was his truth but why would she believe it?


    She rolled her eyes but did not comment. That bolstered his courage a little.


    "So, about that night..."


    "I said I do not wish to discuss it. That incident is in the past. I have already had a hard time overcoming it, and I do not wish to go through it again."


    "And I helped you overcome it!" he reminded her as gently as possible but his patience was withering. "So now if you stop wasting time and just tell me..."


    "I think we can agree whatever you did was for your own selfish motives. You did not help me, it was never your intention. You were here for revenge, that turned into greed. Everything you said was a lie. You never cared, you never felt anything..." she stopped abruptly to catch a breath, as her lips pinched into a thin line. A strangled sob escaped her throat as her face flamed with shame, anger, and the utter embarrassment that was her life.


    He felt tired as the weight on his heart increased a thousand times. He didn''t know why it was so heavy, after all, he''d done what he had done knowing the consequences full well.


    "That''s not true, Aditi. I did care, I was ashamed for Vicki, I was ashamed for what he did to you."


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    "So you thought I was a charity case and set off to rescue me." Her face lost its color again as it filled with desolation. He kept quiet. He had no reply. It seemed he had not only broken her heart but also her pride. That wound was deeper, and knowing her, she wouldn''t let it heal anytime soon.


    "Well, you do not have to feel guilty, if that''s why you are so eager to know about that night." Her voice had sunk so low he could barely hear it. "I can assure you, you need not be either guilty or ashamed. Whatever Vicki did, I can understand his reasons and I have already forgiven him. You can absolve yourself of that guilt."


    His head hurt by the stress of it all. The puzzle was too much for him. A few other possibilities were sneaking into his mind but...but at this point, all he wanted was to hear it from her.


    "Aditi, please. You are my wife and Vicki is my cousin. I need to know the truth. I need to know your version."


    "Which you will never get," she said flatly. "That chapter is closed for me. Do not bother me again."


    She turned away and went to the kitchen to make her own breakfast. His heart sank to the floor as he watched her ashen-faced.


    *****


    A week later they reached Delhi. Darsh was relieved to reach a familiar scene - the clogged roads, the congested air, the dust, the crowd, the pollution. It made him feel at home. The clean air of Palampur was starting to poison him. The clear sunlight no longer suited his murky mind that wanted to hide somewhere dark never to show its filthy face again.


    The past few days were torture. His wife pretended he was invisible. She cooked alone, ate alone, exercised, and studied alone, he hadn''t noticed the thick stack of books she had packed in her luggage. She was happy in her own little world. Every morning and evening she went out for strolls, not too far away from their cottage. They both were careful not to be seen by others, they both didn''t want any rumors to spread. That was the one unspoken understanding between them, otherwise, they lived as strangers. It suited her best but he had never known such loneliness. It was as if life was passing by him while he stared from the side. It was as if he had missed out on the biggest deal of his life and was now left to count his losses.


    He hated it. He did not like losing. He did not like when his plan failed.


    And so when he was back on his home turf, he breathed out a relieved sigh. Although his house was nowhere as luxurious as the Sharma Residence, it was a decent abode - a two-storied row house in a quiet suburb of Delhi that he''d bought a few years ago, to his Ma''s extreme pride.


    But his peace did not last long, thanks to his wife.


    The moment they reached, she occupied the only guest room in his house. It was the smallest room on the ground floor, with a small window blocked by a grey brick fence wall. The furniture there was sparse - a small double bed, a wooden cupboard, and a barely-there grimy bathroom that he had neglected to decorate for ages. He had never felt the need, the only people ever staying there were Vicki''s college friends.


    His wife barely missed a beat when she saw the state. Nothing phased her - neither the peeling paint nor the stained bedsheets. He wished his Ma was here to handle the situation but she had again given them a miss. She was staying at the NGO, it seemed, she thought it was prudent to leave the newly married couple to sort out their issues.


    In a way he was happy. He did want to spend some alone time with his wife. Another reason was that he didn''t want his Ma to witness his debacle when his wife got the better of him.


    Startled, he scoffed at the ridiculous thought. He was not afraid of his wife. Oh no. He. was. not .afraid. Instead, he would make sure she was afraid of him, like the others in his house and his office.


    Which was not hard to achieve, was it? His hand raised to his cheek where the sting of the slap was still alive. The scratches from her nails had just healed but his skin still felt raw.


    He gritted his teeth and launched into a scathing attack on the first person that came in the line of his vision, which was unfortunately his maid - Shanta bai.


    "Shanta bai, why is the room so dirty? What am I paying you for if you can''t even manage to maintain basic hygiene?"


    The maid gave him a puzzled look as if he was talking gibberish. To his consternation, his wife gave her a sweet smile before making a certain gesture which suspiciously looked like sign language for - ''Don''t mind him, he is crazy.''


    The two women shared a knowing look before Shanta bai gave a victorious smirk and glided back to the kitchen. His wife straightened her face and turned back to start her unpacking.


    Darsh did not know how to react. Never in his life had his authority been challenged so casually. And never in his life had he lost it so easily. This was ridiculous. This was Delhi, his turf, his house. And this was his wife. He had to reassert his authority. Somehow. Anyhow.


    "You cannot stay in this room." He snapped belligerently. "Servants talk. I won''t have people gossiping."


    Aditi turned to raise a quizzical eyebrow.


    "I am only here for a few days Darsh. They will know anyway. Better not hide anything, it will spare us explaining later."


    She turned back to the wardrobe with a critical eye, then fished out a cloth to wipe it clean. He stared dumb-faced. Such clear, concise logic. So open and true. His hackles were raised with every word. Being straightforward was one thing, but showing this utter disregard for his reputation, and his feelings, was too much.


    Wait, what feelings was he talking about? His brain was confused for a moment but he refocussed quickly. This was not a time for dithering. This was time for firm action.


    "You are not staying here Aditi. If you insist on being difficult, I''ll have to speak with Dadaji. I am sure he would love to hear about his granddaughter''s antics."


    He smiled. This was the way to go - use her Achilles heel - her Dadaji.


    He crossed his arms to glare at her but regretted it immediately. It did not help that she had cast off her dupatta and rolled up her sleeves to raise on her tiptoes to clean the topmost shelf. His eyes snagged on her curves - her tiny waste making a perfect hourglass that his fingers itched to trace. Sweat beads gathered on his forehead. He resisted the urge to wipe them as he resisted so many other urges. Darn!


    "We have a call every day to talk about things," he continued with a brave face. "Dadaji likes to keep informed and I''ll have no compunction to tell him what mischief his little granddaughter is up to."


    "Then I''ll have to talk to your mother about your little folder, Mr. Rathore. She doesn''t know yet about your dirty secret, does she?" His wife gave him back with a sweet smile. He was floored. Ah. He had underestimated her again. His sweet princess was not brainless.


    "Don''t you bring Ma is this! She is blameless."


    "She abated your cheating by hiding the truth. She is as guilty as you are."


    "She did not!" he thundered. "Ma was sad and ashamed as I was. She wanted to help you. She wanted to..." He fell silent mid-sentence as his irritation hiked. Why was he explaining to this stubborn girl? The volume of their voices was so high Shanta bai peeped curiously in the direction of the guestroom. The door was still open and he was barely past the threshold.


    Annoyed, he glared at his wife. Her insolence was insufferable. He had to make a statement - then and there.


    He strode in calmly as Aditi watched in surprise. She opened her mouth for some snarky comment when he bent down to haul her up on his shoulder.


    The next ten minutes were comical. There were all sorts of noises - squeaks, screams, curses, threats. The rest of his staff came running to view the spectacle. The housekeeper blushed and hid behind the kitchen door as he carried his belligerent and kicking wife to his bedroom.


    Ah, now he was home, in his own bedroom with his own wife. He kicked the door shut behind him and threw her on the bed. She scrambled up to her feet with admirable speed and stood glaring at him. After days of melancholy, a mischievous smile cracked on his face when she raised her hand to slap him again.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 47

    He kicked the door shut behind him and threw her on the bed. She scrambled up with admirable speed and stood glaring at him. After days of melancholy, a mischievous grin cracked on his face when she raised her hand to slap him again.


    "Oh no, darling. You don''t get to do that again."


    He grabbed her wrist in a flash and twisted it behind her to pull her closer. Their bodies collided with a thud, a startled squeak left her lips.


    "How dare you! Let me go!"


    His lip curled as he tightened his grip.


    "Never."


    He dipped his head in her hair, nuzzling against her soft cheek. How convenient that she''d already removed her dupatta. He could now reach her slender neck, feel every gentle dip, every delicate swell. His lips traced her creamy skin, every inch of it, drinking its dewy radiance.


    "Darsh...Let me go!" Her protest sounded feeble as she struggled in his grasp. Her breath was haggard, he could hear her heart thumping loudly.


    He smiled. This was a good time to teach her some manners. How he would love to have her begging but only for more, not less.


    "Say the magic word."


    Her eyes flashed.


    "Never, you brute, you...rascal!" her irritation hiked as her fingers tugged at his collar to claw at his neck. Grimacing, he grabbed her hand to tuck it behind her safely.


    "That will not help you, Aditi. Has no one ever taught you to be polite to your husband?"


    "I''ll be polite to you when I''m dead."


    Uhh...that mouth. His eyes descended to her luscious lips and lingered there thoughtfully. If it weren''t so dirty he would have kissed it.


    Her eyes widened in panic.


    "Don''t you dare..."


    He smirked.


    "Oh, but I do dare wifey. We have been married for so long. Did you think I''ll wait for you forever?"


    His arms tightened, pressing her to him even harder. Her skin flushed redder, she turned her head to keep some distance. Their lips would have touched if she had made the mistake of looking at him. As it was, he was nuzzling into her neck, his nose inhaling into her hair as if he was smoking pot. The silken touch, the seductive scent were driving him to distraction. His brain fogged with wild jasmines mixed with the smoky stink of fuel and dust from their travel. Add to that the salty tang of her sweat and he was completely undone.


    "Mmm...I love this."


    "Shut up!"


    He raised an amused eyebrow. He had no problem shutting up. In fact, he was bored of talking. All he wanted now was some action.


    "Come on, princess. One kiss. It''s been so long."


    "Go to hell Darsh. How shameless can you be?"


    Apparently not enough. He could see she was not relenting. Her lips were pinched in a thin line, her nostrils flared with agitation. Her body was stiff as opposed to the willing submission he''d gotten so used to. The honey in her eyes was frozen in icy shards, it was not budging, try as he might there was not even a single crack in it. How he wished she would let it go, but that was not to be.


    He sighed.


    "Listen Aditi. Enough is enough. This craziness must stop. We have a life to live, this cannot go on."


    She stopped struggling as she met his eyes properly. The ice cracked a tiny fraction only to reveal a muddied pool of sadness. Startled, he stared as something wet glistened in there. But it must be a trick of the light as it vanished the next moment.


    "That''s right, Darsh. Enough is enough. I cannot take this anymore. I cannot bear being touched by a hateful scheming bastard. Why can''t you just get the damn thing in your head and let me be?"


    Her words scalded him like hot coals. His body stiffened in shock as he took an involuntary step back, his face falling into a chasm.


    "That''s better. Keep the distance. Remember your place and you''d do well."


    She straightened her clothes, her face full of a contemptuous disdain that slashed his heart with one fell swoop. She pursed her lips and moved to the door, then stopped to turn back.


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    "And remember, if I am to live in this house, it will be in the guest room. Do not try to overstep your boundary again."


    He stared at her ashen-faced as a void exploded in his heart. Such crippling emptiness, such absolute nothingness, such a consuming dark where he was left scrambling without hope of light. His heart yearned desperately to hold on to her, to beg her to reconsider, to let him in. But his brain had other ideas. His anger built itself into a simmering volcano, the tip of which was about to burst open. Frustration was not good for his male ego. He would not be thwarted a second time by an arrogant girl, especially this girl who was his last chance, his only hope. On second thought, he didn''t even know why he wanted her so badly. It was not like she was Ananya. She was a muse, a want, a desperation, an addiction. He just needed to feel good, to get high in his otherwise mundane life.


    An insane pain shot in his head obscuring all reason. He shot forward and pulled her towards him, winding her in an iron grip. His hand grabbed a fistful of her hair as his lips smashed into hers with the ferocity of a hungry beast. He kissed like there was no tomorrow. Punishing was not the word, nor was devouring. He was claiming her, stamping her with his mark, telling her for once and all who was the boss.


    She made some protesting sounds, perhaps some whimpers, perhaps some choked cries but they did not reach his ears. They drowned in his chaos so thoroughly he did not even hear them.


    He forced his way open as his tongue invaded her delicious mouth. Soft, fragrant, full of life juices that he needed for himself desperately. He had kissed her before but this was different. His brain fogged with her aphrodisiac; his heart ran amok. His body demanded its due with such ferocity he didn''t know when he pushed her to the bed crushing her under his weight.


    His hands roamed her body, caressing her supple curves, as his teeth stamped his mark on her pearly skin. A trail of red marks followed in their wake from her swollen lips to her neck, then below it to the alluring swells of her breasts. His fingers scrambled to pull her sleeve down in order to gain more access, ripping the sleeve in the process. His eyes glazed as his brain completely zoned out at the site of supple radiance exposed to him.


    The delirium was delicious, so chaotic, yet so restful, full of peace. He wanted to sink in it, deep, so deep he would never see the light of day again.


    Greed, lust, want, need. Call it whatever, it was beyond words. What did it matter anyway now that it was within his reach?


    How wonderful it was, to have this treasure as his own! It was denied to him for so long, he had craved for it for so long, but no more. He would claim what was his. The girl had no right to deny him his due.


    He felt himself hardening as he lifted his head from her soft bosom to look at her face. Her half-closed eyes were glassy staring over his head somewhere in the void. Her face was frozen, not even a muscle twitched. The only sign of life was a tear that escaped from her left eye to the bedsheet below.


    "Aditi?" He frowned as his haze faded a little. "Are you okay?"


    She didn''t answer, or rather she couldn''t. Maybe she didn''t hear his voice. Her heart barely beat, she didn''t even fight for a breath.


    She was still beautiful, so beautiful and pristine - like a sleeping marble statue. Or more like a lifeless ragdoll.


    *****


    Over his shoulder, she stared into a distance to the bare ceiling, to the stark walls. A heavy weight pressed on her pinning her down. She couldn''t do anything, so she''d stopped trying. Moving, breathing, blinking, everything felt a chore. Neither did she have the strength, not the courage. There was no point struggling.


    Was he done? she wondered somewhere subconsciously. How much longer did she have to wait? There was no pain this time, which was a blessing, but that might be because she had willed herself to block it.


    This time it was not dark, she could see things. A familiar face hovered over her, slapping her haphazardly, calling her name as if he was calling her from the brink.


    Why was he so worried? She was not sure. She was not even there. She couldn''t feel anything, neither his touch nor his scent. Her eyes focussed on his face for a moment and something tugged at her heart.


    Yes, this was the man she loved, she remembered it clearly. For some reason, he didn''t love her, she remembered that little detail too. She didn''t understand what went wrong, what she could have done better. One thing was clear though, that it was too late to fix it.


    Tears prickled her eyes as a piteous whimper escaped her throat. He pulled her closer and rocked her in his arms.


    "I''m sorry," he kept repeating as his gentle fingers ran through her hair. Her heart filled with contentment as her mind began to lose itself in a chasm of unconsciousness.


    *****


    Later that night she woke up to find herself alone in bed. The curtains were drawn, and a soft night lamp burnt to illuminate the tiny room. This was a different room, she could see her luggage stacked in a corner. Her dupatta sat neatly folded on the side table with a jug of water that had somehow appeared by magic.


    The door was shut but for a tiny creek that let in a sliver of light. Someone paced outside, a shadow that looked familiar, too familiar to pass unnoticed. A lump gathered at her throat as she walked to the door and opened it a fraction. The person paused to look in her direction - her husband, the love of her life. It was too dark for them to see each other''s expressions, but a minute of silence was enough to say the unsaid things.


    Tired, she shut the door and went back to bed. Whatever had happened, it was for the best. Finally, there was a closure - he won''t go that way again, and neither would she.


    *****


    The morning came as any other morning. Aditi found herself at a gurdwara a few miles away from her husband''s home. It was early morning, the birds had not even left their nests yet. It suited her best, she had left the house before the servants arrived or her husband woke up.


    She dipped her feet in the cool water of the Sarovar and folded her hands in prayer. Then took a mop from a nearby cleaning lady and started her Seva.


    Hours passed in peace. She felt herself calming - nothing was more soothing than the hard grind of manual work. Once the cleaning was done, she moved to the kitchens, helping in whatever little way possible. She was no expert cook, but the people were accommodating. They welcomed her with an easy smile and ignored her silly mistakes.


    Noon passed, and so did the afternoon. Nearing the evening she came out again for the second round of cleaning when someone tapped on her shoulder.


    She turned to find a tall man grinning at her.


    "Hey Junior!" he said as his eyes crinkled with genuine surprise. "Remember me?"


    ***** *****

 Chapter 48

    Gaurav Dhaliwal, her senior. He was in the last year when she had started her degree in Lukhnow college. It had been six years.


    She remembered him vaguely. He was one of the many faces she passed every day, milling about the college, getting to know people as she settled in. She had made many friends during that year but none of them were from the last year. The only reason she could put a name to his face was that he was in the college drama club with Sonal. Aditi still remembered the end-of-year production when he had played a simpering Romeo to Sonal¡¯s fiery Juliet. The whole thing was a big fiasco, by the end of it Sonal was so outraged she was willing to kill the Romeo with her own bare hands. The memory still brought her a giggle, Aditi shook her head.


    Anyway, that was then and six long years had passed. Sonal had dated him briefly before moving on. Gaurav Dhaliwal was long forgotten. Today to see him here out of the blue reawakened all her memories. She smiled wistfully.


    ¡°Gaurav, what a pleasant surprise. What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°I live in Delhi. You know, family business and all,¡± he said as if it was the most obvious of the things. ¡°But as far as I know you don¡¯t live here. So how come¡­?¡± He pushed his glasses over his nose, scanning her with one swift glance. His eyes snagged on the pinch of red in her parting, then on her mangalsutra. They then descended to her arms taking in her now-fading henna and bridal choora that jingled every time she straightened her mop.


    Aditi flushed with embarrassment. It was so obvious that she was recently married. And it was even more obvious that something was wrong. New brides didn¡¯t come to gurdwaras to mop floors alone. They came with families, glowing with happiness, to pray and seek blessings for a happy life.


    Her eyes became hot but she forced a sunny smile back to her face.


    ¡°I just came to Delhi yesterday. With my husband. He is busy today so I thought I¡¯ll come here to spend some time.¡± She set the mop aside and straightened her rumpled dress. His eyes were narrowed but he gave a nonchalant shrug.


    ¡°Sure. So if you are free now, how about a coffee?¡±


    She declined politely, saying she had to return home soon. It felt weird calling that place home but that was what it was, at least for now.


    He insisted for a while then gave up, but not before offering to drop her back which Aditi accepted after some hesitation. It would be rude not to accept a friendly offer and she would rather welcome a casual conversation.


    *****


    The conversation proved more than casual. They talked about college, their mutual friends (a.k.a. Sonal), where everyone had ended up (ie. what Sonal was up to nowadays), and his marital status (still unmarried, reason obviously Sonal).


    By the end of it, she felt bad for him. Sonal never mentioned him. She was happy with Rohit.


    They chatted about this and that as the car navigated the crowded Delhi streets. His life here was a combination of profession and pleasure. Most of his time was spent looking after his family business, but a few hours a week were devoted to his vocation - he ran a charity clinic with his friends in one of Delhi slums.


    ¡°So think about my offer,¡± he said glancing at her as he drove. ¡°We need volunteers. You can choose your own timings and we desperately need a lady doctor.¡±


    She smiled and assured him she¡¯d think about it. Well, there was no need to think, she was going to accept it anyway. But it would look odd to jump at it now that she was married, she had to at least pretend she needed to consult her husband.


    The dusk thickened; the air turned cooler. Streetlights came on drenching the city in a luminous glow. She sat leaning back in her seat, her heart feeling light after what felt like ages. It was as if she was back in college; as if all was well and nothing life-changing had occurred in-between.


    The thought pinched her as the gloom started to creep in. Sighing, she got down to wave him goodbye.


    *****


    She opened the gate and entered to find her husband waiting for her on the front steps.


    "You should have invited him in for a coffee. It''s good to have friends in unknown cities."


    His hands were stuffed in his pockets, as he watched her calmly. His clothes were the same as from the last night. The pale yellow porch light illuminated his features, revealing a haggard look. His skin was pallid, his face had a sickly grey pallor.


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    Something heavy settled in her heart as she finally met his eyes. They were distant, closed, cut-off, just like hers. They were tired, yet stubbornly persistent, just like hers.


    Yet there was something about him, a fragile vulnerability as if he would break by a slight breeze. As if a slight touch would crush him and crumble him to pieces. Her heart lurched as she had a weird urge to rush into his arms, to hug him close. For a weird moment, it felt like they both needed it.


    Startled, she bit her lip. Her stupidity was what had gotten her here in the first place.


    "Maybe some other time," she heard herself say. "He was busy today."


    Shaking her head, she strode in without sparing him another glance. She had worked hard today to keep him off her mind but his one look was enough to unravel her. This would not do. She had to harden herself. She had to make sure he had no power over her.


    Besides, she had work to do. Her day at the gurdwara had helped her regroup but there was a lot to finish here. She needed to clean the room, unpack and settle here at her ¡®home¡¯ as comfortably as possible. She didn''t know how long she¡¯d have to spend here before she was free.


    Sighing, she entered the room when a strong smell of paint assaulted her. She looked around and frowned.


    The room looked different. The walls gleamed with fresh pearly white, new silk curtains hung on the window. A sumptuous new bed had replaced the old one. In a corner stood a large white wardrobe with gleaming mirrors.


    Her luggage too had disappeared from the corner which probably meant someone had done her unpacking. On the side through the open bathroom door, she could see fresh white tiles, a floor-to-ceiling mirror, a replica of her mirror back home, just smaller.


    ¡°You can¡¯t use it yet. It needs twenty-four hours for the paint to dry and to settle the grout,¡± her husband¡¯s voice came from behind.


    Pursing her lips, she turned around to find him waiting at the doorstep.


    Don¡¯t overstep your boundary, she had warned him yesterday. She was pleased to see he remembered that important detail.


    ¡°This was not necessary,¡± she said off-handedly. ¡°I am here only for a few days.¡±


    ¡°It was necessary, for how much ever long you are here.¡±


    His eyes flitted around the room as if to check everything was to his satisfaction. Her hackles raised with each passing moment.


    ¡°If you expect me to thank you after last night..¡±


    His head snapped to her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t expect anything from you, Aditi. Last night will not repeat. And I hope you too will not repeat what you did today.¡±


    She frowned. ¡°I can go wherever I like, whenever I like.¡±


    ¡°This is Delhi, not Palampur Aditi.¡± He shook his head and let out a tired breath. ¡°You have to be careful. Going forward, please make sure you inform me of your whereabouts. And please answer my calls, at least one of them.¡±


    Her face reddened. There were more than forty unanswered calls on her phone. From six in the morning to seven in the evening, he had tried every hour until she turned it off.


    ¡°One would say you deserve it,¡± she replied curling her lip. A shadow passed his face.


    ¡°Yes, I did. As I said, it will not repeat. I am sorry.¡±


    Turning on his heels, he left the room. Aditi stared at his back, then moved forward to shut the door.


    *****


    Painting - Done, Carpeting - done. Furniture- Done. Bathroom - Done.


    Jasmines? He couldn¡¯t arrange for jasmine flowers at such short notice, but he had placed a vase of roses in her room. His neighbor had a Parijaat tree whose branches overhung the fence on the side of the guestroom window. It was the flowering season, he¡¯d seen the white-red starry flowers sprinkled on the ground through the guestroom window.


    He sighed as he tried to remember if he¡¯d missed anything.


    A set of house keys for his wife - through Shanta bai of course - he wrote that down in his list. He had to share her number with Shanta bai, in case she refused to pick up his calls like today.


    Tomorrow he¡¯d get the plumber to check her bathroom again, make sure all was well. He would not have his wife using the common bathroom, oh no, his princess would not do it!


    His eyes felt hot as he rested his tired head on the headboard of his bed. Tired, achy, weary to the bone - he had been like that all day today, right since he realized she¡¯d disappeared. How he had spent his day he didn''t know - running behind his builders on one side, calling his detective on the other to find her out. Late afternoon when he was informed of that gurudwara, he had sent a prayer to the heavens above. Yet he forbade them to approach her. That would have driven her away even further and faster.


    Instead, he¡¯d stood waiting for her on the front steps for hours until she¡¯d finally arrived home. How he had yearned to rush forward to hug her tight, to scold her to death. She deserved punishment for such unruly behavior, she deserved to be grounded in her room for one whole week.


    His eyes prickled in desperation. If that was her punishment, what would it be for him? His conscious asked as well as his subconscious, but he ignored them both. He didn¡¯t know yet. He didn''t know how he¡¯d rectify that mistake or if it could even be rectified.


    He had blundered in every possible way. Never in his wildest dreams had he thought he would do what he¡¯d done that night, that he would be taken over by his father''s ghost in the worst possible way.


    But it was too late to fix. What was done was done. Life had come a full circle. He had to take a step back to figure out who he was - a rapist''s son, a rapist¡¯s brother. A rapist husband, a cheater, fraud, a despicable, low-life bastard.


    Hours passed by as he stared into the dark night. Yesterday in this same place he had attacked her in his depravity. He wished he had somewhere else to go, but here he was, trapped in his own memories, stuck with his own ghastly self.


    Morning came. He gave Shanta bai his instructions and left for work. It was time his holiday was truly over. It was time he got back to work and did something worthwhile.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 49

    Being back to work brought him some normalcy. After a month of absence, he was back in the fray and going by the status of various projects, not a moment too soon. Rajeev, although the senior partner and much more experienced, lacked the chutzpah to keep things moving. Deadlines had passed without anything to show for them. Budgets were being overrun, the pace had become so sluggish their clients had begun complaining.


    Sitting in his fifth-floor office in the posh locality of Delhi¡¯s Vasant Vihar, Darsh scrolled over the quarterly summary report as Rajeev sat in a leather chair across from him drumming his fingers on the polished acrylic table. It was mid-morning and as was their custom, they were having a catch-up over a cup of coffee. Shruti, Rajeev¡¯s personal assistant, sat next to him typing furiously on her laptop and taking notes. Her eyes were narrowed on the screen but Darsh knew a moment ago they were watching him.


    Her eyes held that look - the special moony-eyed look girls reserve for men they have a crush on but were far beyond their reach. In Shruti¡¯s case, maybe she thought he was within her reach at least until a few days ago. Maybe it was not her fault, the kind of life he¡¯d lived for the past six years, many girls were led to believe that. He could see the hurt on her face, the implicit accusation that he had somehow been unfair to her by ignoring her and marrying another woman. The frenzied tic-tic-tic of her keys as she jabbed at her laptop got on his nerves, it was as if the woman was poking her manicured fingernails into his eyes to extract her just revenge.


    He kept his attention on the report but could feel his irritation building. He wished he did not have to see the girl on his first day back. She was pushy, nosy, just the kind of girl he preferred to avoid. On more than a few occasions, he had found her where she should not have been - like loitering near the men¡¯s restrooms when he was about to enter or exit, printing out documents near the cafeteria when he wanted to grab a quick drink (this, when she had a special printer solely at her disposal being Rajeev¡¯s PA), and in the office long after Rajeev left when Darsh had stayed back working late. This last one was quite common as he had a habit of burning midnight oil, and so it seemed she also had made it her business to be available at all hours.


    Luckily for him, he had other assistants who were equally dedicated and did not mind keeping him company. The woman made him uncomfortable as if she was always on the lookout for an opportunity.


    ¡°Get me another coffee, will you?¡± He said glancing at her, careful not to leak his irritation into his voice or face. ¡°And please get this quarter¡¯s accounts reports from Mr. Bakshi.¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯s not even the tenth of the month yet!" the woman had no such inhibitions. "You know Mr. Bakshi does them around the twentieth¡­¡±


    ¡°I need them urgently, Shruti. If he hasn¡¯t done them yet, do them yourself but do not return without them.¡±


    The woman got up and left, shutting her laptop with a louder-than-necessary clap. Rajeev raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Go easy on her, pal. The girl is heartbroken,¡± he curled his lips once the door was shut behind his PA.


    ¡°If she is, it¡¯s her own fault," Darsh rolled his eyes. "The mental state of your PA is none of my concern.¡±


    Rajeev raised an amused eyebrow. Darsh retaliated with an unamused shrug. To hell with that woman, Rajeev had spoilt her rotten.


    ¡°And now back to business. May I know what¡¯s going on? The Imperial City project is still not signed, Emerald Towers is in amber. We still haven¡¯t signed the dotted line with Mr. Gujral for the partnership in his new shopping mall and these are just the first few on the list. What¡¯s happening, Rajeev?¡±


    It was now Rajeev¡¯s turn to roll his eyes. The man looked positively irked.


    ¡°Well, what did you expect? It would have all been well if you hadn¡¯t gone on your month-long expedition out of the blue. You left discussions mid-way, clients were confused. Do you know how difficult it was to fend off their queries? It¡¯s not my fault if they didn¡¯t want to proceed without you.¡±


    Really? Darsh sighed. Rajeev too was part of those discussions, he could have easily taken a lead and seen the projects through. But apparently, Rajeev had other ideas.


    ¡°Moreover, you diverted all our resources to Palampur,¡± Rajeev pointed at him with an accusing finger. ¡°I had to scramble at the last moment and recruit whoever I could find to make up the slack. Do you know how hard it was? I had to get whoever I could find and pay them much more than what we would have otherwise offered. It screwed all our finances for this quarter. What were you even thinking?¡±


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    Fair enough, Darsh accepted defeat gracefully. There was some truth in it. Their Palampur projects now consumed almost sixty percent of their resources. It was his decision but he had done it knowing it would cause a crunch in Delhi. Delhi projects were run-of-the-mill jobs while Palampur was an unexplored gold mine. Granted, the work here had suffered but he had no qualms, at least it made Rajeev get off his lazy ass and do something productive.


    Sighing, he threw the report on the table. It was time he got off his own ass. He¡¯d have to go visit the sites and make sure the new workers were up to the mark. Another item for his to-do list, this time his professional list rather than personal. A shadow passed his heart. He had never made two different lists before, what was professional was personal and vice versa. He had never made the distinction before - a big mistake, he knew that now.


    ¡°By the way, talking about Palampur, how do you propose to manage the Palampur projects now that you are here? I hope you are not going to leave them to that green boy?¡±


    ¡°That green boy is the owner of half that land, Rajeev," Darsh shook his head. He didn¡¯t know what Rajeev had against Mohit, but for some reason, the boy had made a not-so-favorable impression on his partner. This was very unlike Rajeev, the man was usually reasonable, sometimes even overly generous to people, his pompous secretary was a great example. "I find him capable enough. And I have left Mishra and Naik there, they will be doing the chunk of the work while Mohit is under their guidance.¡± Not to mention he himself was monitoring the work, he had daily video calls with Mishra and Naik - his two best managers that he¡¯d recruited and groomed himself over the past years. Their reports were good. The boy was a fast learner.


    Rajeev hummed, tapping his fingers on the arm of his chair. After a short pause, his eyes narrowed and Darsh braced himself for the inevitable question.


    ¡°So, how is it going¡­at home?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Aditi is settling down.¡± He answered with a straight face.


    ¡°So, all okay?¡±


    ¡°Yes, all fine.¡± Darsh smiled as he watched his partner. Although no longer hands-on with clients, Rajeev was still a seasoned player. He was fishing for information, but for what reason, Darsh couldn¡¯t gauge. ¡°So about the Imperial City¡­¡±


    ¡°Imperial City can wait. I am thinking of throwing a party,¡± Rajeev cut him off.


    Darsh frowned.


    ¡°Party? For what?"


    ¡°To introduce your wife to our clients. They are quite curious, you know. You were gone for more than a month without any trace and returned with an heiress wife. Everyone wishes to meet her. And I think it''s a good time to cash on your newfound status.¡±


    He felt his color rising, yet he didn''t know why. Wasn¡¯t that the very reason why he''d married her? To cash on her status, to bask in the borrowed glory. To parade her in front of people   and earn their pseudo respect. A burning gag built in his throat, bile pulsing at his diaphragm to erupt in a rush. He swallowed it somehow yet the acid reached his mouth, souring its taste.


    "There is no rush. It''s not even two days we are here. Parties can wait."


    "But why wait? I think it''s time to flaunt your wife in front of our clients."


    ¡°I have no wish to flaunt my wife to anybody Rajeev. If you are suggesting¡­¡±


    ¡°I am not suggesting anything Darsh.¡± Rajeev continued serenely. ¡°All I am saying is - the clients are curious. It¡¯s time we introduce them to Aditi and put the matter behind us.¡±


    He slumped back in his chair and wiped his face with an unusually damp palm. He would be more than happy to take his wife to a party if it was just a matter of introducing her. But that was kind of impossible when he was barely on talking terms with her. She would never agree, he just knew it.


    ¡°I''ll think about it," he said pursing his lips. Rajeev gave him a curious look, then shrugged.


    ¡°Well, think fast. If we can get this done in the next few days, maybe Bakshi will have something positive to report for this quarter.¡±


    Rajeev''s reminder stayed with him for the rest of the day. Darsh kept busy, going over project reports; reconnecting with clients with regard to pending items. Rajeev was right, they were curious to meet his wife. Darsh had a hard time explaining why he¡¯d not introduced her yet.


    Sometime in the late afternoon, his detective emailed him another folder. This time too it was small, but not as small as Aditi¡¯s had been. Darsh clicked on it to check the introduction summary - the stranger who¡¯d dropped Aditi home yesterday was none other than Gaurav Dhaliwal - her college friend and the owner of the famous Dhaliwal Diamonds with stores all over India. He was also a doctor and unmarried.


    As expected, his day went downhill from there. He called urgent meetings and demanded reports that he knew were not due until the end of the month. Had a couple of more arguments with Rajeev, just for the heck of it, and shouted at his PA a few more times, just because he could. The girl finally left his cabin almost in tears. Exasperated, Rajeev threw his hands up in the air and asked him to take an early break.


    Relieved, he slumped back in his chair and loosened his tie. He didn''t know that was what he needed - an early break to go back home, to his wife. To see her sweet face and if he was lucky, a shade of smile in her eyes.


    Come five o¡¯clock and he did just that, he packed his bag to head home. On his way out, he heard some whispers, some suggestive giggles. This time too his pulse raised but not in anger. A strange eagerness gripped his heart as he rushed out and got into his car.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 50

    Darsh reached home to find his wife missing. She¡¯d left home shortly after him in the morning and hadn¡¯t returned yet. She hadn¡¯t said a word where she was going or when she¡¯d return. It had been nearly ten hours and there was no sign of her.


    Panicking, he dialed her number but like yesterday, his calls went unanswered. Next, he made Shanta bai call Aditi. The maid gave him a weird look but did as she was told. To his dismay, that too proved futile.


    Darn! Where was she? Was she again at that gurdwara? Or somewhere else? Where else could she go in this city? Her friends worked in Delhi somewhere, Sonal and Rohit, but he hadn¡¯t bothered to take their numbers or even talk to them properly. Contacting them and explaining to them his problem might take time and in the meanwhile, his heart was nearly ready to collapse.


    ¡°Ashok, can you please check if my wife is in that gurudwara?¡± He texted one of his henchmen that he¡¯d used yesterday. Texting seemed a better option than calling this time, an emotionless, voiceless string of letters was always better at hiding what a worried, breathless voice couldn¡¯t. After a restless half an hour, he got a reply.


    ¡°Bhabhi is not here, although she came here this morning for some time. About 8-ish.¡± The three little dots indicating Ashok was still typing a message kept blinking. A few seconds later another message popped on his screen. ¡°Should I call the others? Should we start looking?¡± Darsh stared at it.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Darsh wanted to scream. ¡°Yes, find her for me! The stupid girl doesn¡¯t understand how dangerous this is. Find her and bring her home, back to me. I need her here, in front of my eyes, safe and sound.¡± That¡¯s what he wanted to say, but his words were stuck in his throat. That was what he wanted to type but his fingers wouldn¡¯t move. Somewhere he¡¯d begun to realize there was no point. She did not want to talk to him, she did not want to see his face and she definitely did not want to be followed by his men. That would be like adding oil to an already roaring fire. Where he had hoped to use his marriage as a safety net, that idea too had flopped spectacularly. It had turned into a noose around her neck which she was trying her best to throw away.


    ¡°No.¡± He hit the send button and shoved the phone in his pocket, then came out to sit on the front steps for another session of a long wait. The sun had sunk long ago, the twilight was heavy with thickening dust. Outside on the street, children made a ruckus as they played cricket. People returned home after a long day at work, tired, hungry, and happy that the day was over.


    He sat patiently, glancing at his watch. Every now and then he stood up to crane his neck to check for any autos, taxis, or cars. Some came, delivered the passengers home, and left but there was no sign of his wife.


    Sometime later the servants left. Now it was only him, the empty house, and the grey evening descending like a shroud of gloom. The night fell thick and fast. A few of his neighbors finished their dinner and came out for a stroll. There were John and Ira - a young couple who¡¯d married about a year ago and moved into number 7. Ira was pregnant. The way they walked; faces flushed with happiness as John supported his wife to negotiate the potholes made him envious. John raised his hand to Darsh, then turned away to resume his walk. Darsh gave him a sunny smile and turned his face away. His eyes landed on the Awasthi family coming out of number 4 - the husband, wife, and two naughty, bouncy kids. It looked like they wanted to stop and talk but the kids clamored for ice cream. Mr. Awasthi shrugged at him apologetically - ¡°You know how the kids are.¡± Darsh gave a benevolent smile, but his eyes burned hot. He had never known that kind of happiness. His mother had done for him all she could but even she could not conjure the bliss of a complete family.


    He stared wistfully as the family laughed and joked before turning around the corner to their favorite ice cream parlor. In the distance, he could see another pair, this time an elderly couple walking in his direction.


    They were Bhavesh uncle and Uma aunty, his immediate neighbors to the right who¡¯d been living in this colony for more than thirty years. As usual, they walked slowly, holding hands and smiling and waved at him as they passed by.


    Eyes glistening, he sat there stoically. Alone, waiting, for God knew how long. More families came and left, each lost in their own little world. Some noticed him and waved as they passed by. Darsh kept a smile on his face, but his chest tightened as a familiar hollow engulfed him. It was unlikely he would be in any of those lucky situations in another year, ten years, or even in the next thirty years. It was a reality he¡¯d never thought about but now felt inevitable.


    More time passed as he stared at his phone waiting for it to ring, beep, buzz. Nothing of the sort happened. His eyes became strained, his body was stiff with apprehension. His mind was in a sort of limbo, a pendulum in the middle of its two states not knowing which way to swing next. It could either be extreme anger, frustration - a cloud-burst like the other night. Or of a total breakdown, nervous wreckage, the whimpering helplessness of a child left alone in an empty house in the dark of the night. He prayed it was neither. He didn''t want to succumb to his anger a second time, nor did he want to be reduced to a frightened child. He just wanted his wife home safely. Then he could disappear into his room for another lonely night.


    Finally, after what seemed like hours, a car stopped at his gate. He stood up with a jolt and darted down the front steps to see his wife getting out of the passenger side.


    She was on the other side, and he could see her face. She was smiling that glorious smile. The spark was back in her eyes. He watched her ashen-faced as something bitter snapped inside him.


    *****


    Aditi smiled as she got down and walked around the car. Her first day at the new clinic had been eventful, to say the least. It was everything she¡¯d hoped for - busy, chaotic, and naturally fulfilling. She was knackered yet she hadn¡¯t felt so relaxed in days. She bent down at the driver¡¯s window to wave Gaurav goodbye.


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    ¡°Thanks again. You have no idea how thrilled I am.¡± He smiled and shrugged.


    ¡°No need to thank me. And I am the lucky one. I got a lady doctor for free, didn¡¯t I?¡± She smiled as she shook her head and stood back when there was a deafening clang of metal behind her. Hinges creaked in an ear-splitting screech as the gate behind her opened. Panicked, she turned to find her husband staring at them.


    Her brows scrunched. What was the matter with him? If yesterday he looked on the verge, tonight it seemed something had tipped him over the edge. She had never seen him like this - clothes disheveled, hair messed up, face pallid and angry. Hands stuffed in his pockets, he stared at them unblinkingly. She could feel the scorching heat - the disapproval, the hurt, rage, reproach, and pain - that gaze conveyed volumes. Add to that the glazed and puffy eyes, and she felt her heart sinking. Had he been crying?


    ¡°Darsh, I...¡± She took a step closer to touch his arm, but he raised a hand to shut her up. It looked like at this moment he didn''t want to bother with her. His whole focus was trained on the driver.


    ¡°Mr. Dhaliwal. I am Darsh Rathore. Thanks for dropping my wife home.¡± His voice was clipped as he stepped forward and wedged himself between the car and her. She watched in increasing uneasiness as Gaurav got down smiling, totally unaware of the hostility in the air.


    ¡°It¡¯s my pleasure, Mr. Rathore. And nice meeting you too...¡± he extended an arm for a handshake, but the gesture was completely ignored by her husband. His hands stayed firmly in his pockets.


    ¡°Unfortunately, I cannot say the same to you, Mr. Dhaliwal. Please do not take it in a wrong way but I¡¯d prefer you don¡¯t drop my wife home at such ungodly hours.¡± Gaurav froze in his tracks, his smile curdling on his face. Aditi rushed to put a restraining hand on her husband¡¯s arm, but he shirked her away.


    ¡°I hope you understand, Mr. Dhaliwal, I have a reputation to maintain. I do not want people blabbering about my wife. She has a phone¡­,¡± he glanced her way, then back to Gaurav. Aditi felt her face burning. ¡°She can call me whenever she needs. I¡¯d appreciate this does not repeat a third time.¡±


    A minute passed in silence as they stared at each other. Gaurav¡¯s face fumed with humiliation as he stared at them in disbelief. Aditi wished she could disappear in thin air, but her husband looked unconcerned.


    ¡°Anyway, thanks again for your help, Mr. Dhaliwal. and have a good night.¡± her husband spoke to conclude the little interchange with a flair as Aditi watched him flabbergasted. Well, what did she expect? It was a fitting end to her adventure.


    Gaurav gave a curt nod and got back in his car to speed away as fast as he could. Her eyes burned as she watched her husband open-mouthed. Her husband though was not bothered. He grabbed her arm and walked inside, shutting the metal gate behind them.


    *****


    ¡°What was that?¡± she screeched the moment they stepped into the hallway, her face burning with rage. ¡°How dare you insult Gaurav like that? What is your problem?¡±


    He bolted the door and turned around to give her a calm look.


    ¡°My problem is, Aditi, that my wife goes out for the whole day and does not think it necessary to inform me. Then late in the night, she returns with a stranger who just happens to be her long-lost friend. This repeats twice in a row, and I am kept in the dark. I think this is a reason enough for any self-respecting husband to put his foot down, won¡¯t you agree? Because if he doesn¡¯t, his clueless wife will keep repeating the same mistake, endangering herself in the process and embarrassing him too. No man worth his salt will allow this, neither would any dignified woman behave in this way.¡±


    She stared at him open-mouthed, trying to form a response. How succinctly he had vindicated himself and put the blame on her. As if it was not enough to ruin her life, her hopes, her dreams. As if it was not enough to treat her like a piece of meat, he could keep it in his freezer to use at his leisure.


    She closed her burning eyes as a tear escaped her eye. Her day at the clinic had been wonderful. Since morning, the moment she stepped in there too late in the evening when the last patient left, she hadn¡¯t stopped for a moment to think about her life. It was as if she was on a drug, the longer it stayed effective, the more she felt content. But now she was back, back to her reality, back to her husband. It occurred to her that wherever she went, she¡¯d have to return here. To be judged by this man, who himself was a despicable creature. It was beyond her capability, it felt like she too was nearing her tipping point. But what would she even do if she tipped? She had nowhere to go but this house. She could thrash all she liked, she could cry all she liked, she could curse, scream, do whatever she liked, she had to stay within the boundaries of this house like a bird trapped in its cage. She was a prisoner here, bound by her fate.


    Her head spun with dizziness as crippling hopelessness washed over her. A flicker of shadow passed his eyes but she was too weary to notice it. A wave of nausea took over her as she ran to the nearest bathroom to empty her stomach. After days of quiet, her frenzied retching was back. She laughed as her eyes streamed, her stomach twisted with convulsions. This was so funny. She could revel in her own filth, laughing at herself. She didn¡¯t need anyone else to mock at her anymore.


    *****


    For two days she burned with fever, in and out of delirium that drugs could not control. Karuna Rathore sat next to her wiping her brow with a wet towel. Her son stood at the window staring outside at the parijaat branch. The air was cool, fragrant. The room was silent except for the labored breathing of the patient.


    ¡°She needs to relax. It¡¯s the stress that she is unable to handle,¡± the doctor said from the bedside as she put her stethoscope back in her bag. Her eyes were cold and hard as she stood up and gave Karuna a look. ¡°A holiday might help, maybe somewhere quiet with her husband. She needs to unwind, that will lighten her up.¡±


    Darsh kept his back turned as his mother ushered the doctor out. Then he turned and walked towards his wife - his beautiful, fragile, unwell wife who he¡¯d tortured so mercilessly she¡¯d ended up in this state. His fingers raised to brush a strand of hair from her hot face. How peaceful she looked, how serene and lovely. She would not be so when she heard the doctor¡¯s recommendation. A holiday with him would sink her even more, right to the bottom of the well she was scrambling to stay afloat.


    His eyes burned as he sat there staring at her sleeping face. Clutching her small hand in his clammy one, holding it as if it was the most precious thing in the world. Sometimes in those tender moments, he pressed his lips to her fingers, to her sweaty brow, and to her closed eyes. A flicker of something passed her face every time he touched her, a part sigh, a part whimper. He took it as a positive sign, at least she could stand his touch.


    Hours passed as if in a daze when his mother entered with a bowl of soup. He got up to look at her as unsaid words passed between them. Sometime in the last two days they had reached a decision. Neither of them had dared to say it aloud but both knew it was inevitable. That was what they would do, it was the right thing to do. Moreover, it was the only thing they could do given the present circumstances.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 51

    For two more days, she stayed in that feverish daze. Her nights were spent tossing and turning as someone sat on her side trying to calm her. Sometimes they wiped her sweaty face, sometimes they tried to feed her some liquids. Sometimes, when nothing worked, they just held her to their chest murmuring consoling words.


    She knew there were two different people - a man and a woman. The woman¡¯s touch was soft, and loving, like her mother¡¯s. Initially, she was hesitant, maybe a little afraid but as time passed, she became more confident. She stroked her hair and sometimes massaged her hands and feet. The touch told her the woman genuinely wanted her to get better.


    The man¡¯s touch was hard, unforgiving. It was more reassured in its ability to handle her at the beginning but as the time passed, it became distant, aloof. He barely touched her, even when wiping her brow, feeding her or brushing her hair off her face. He made sure there was no actual skin-to-skin contact. The fleeting kisses on her brow and eyelids did not happen again. She waited for it but he did not hold her hand again.


    At the end of the second day when she was finally lucid, she saw her mother-in-law smiling a relieved smile. Her husband was nowhere to be seen but Aditi knew he was here a while ago.


    She took the next two days to recover fully. In those two days, she interacted with Karuna and Shanta bai but she didn¡¯t see her husband again. The women buzzed about her making sure she was as comfortable as possible but she felt her irritation building. First, he couldn¡¯t help to shove himself in her face and how he was hiding. What was he playing at? If he thought these tricks would unsettle her, he could think again.


    Her wait was over on the morning of the third day. The house was quiet, except of some faint sounds from the kitchen. Her mother-in-law had made herself scarce after breakfast and Shanta bai too hadn¡¯t made an appearance. Aditi was just out of the bathroom having washed her hair when there was a knock on the door. She opened it to see her husband waiting there.


    ¡°May I come in?¡±


    She walked back in without answering. Since when did he need her permission for anything? If this was some kind of game, he could play it alone. She was not going to be part of it.


    He waited for a second more, then walked in, just a couple of steps over the threshold. She turned back to look at him. He was dressed for work and carried a folder in his hand.


    ¡°I have something for you.¡±


    Aditi snorted. ¡°Another folder? Let me guess¡­this is how you found out about Gaurav?¡±


    He looked unapologetic. ¡°Yes. This is how I found out about Gaurav. I have my methods and they never fail me. But this is not about him.¡± He sighed and put the folder down on the side table that was closest to him from his position next to the door. She noticed he made no attempt to come forward, or hand it to her when she was merely a few steps away.


    ¡°What is it then? More up-to-date details about my property?¡±


    ¡°No Aditi. This is an annulment application. A peace offering. I have signed it. You can do it too and we can call it quits.¡±


    *****


    ¡°Annulment?¡± she thought she heard wrong. ¡°You mean a divorce?¡±


    ¡°Annulment is not divorce," he explained patiently. "Divorce is when you agree you were legally married and seek to dissolve it. That is a very long process and does not suit us. This is annulment - which means the marriage was never legal. It never existed, so to speak.¡±


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    ¡°So this marriage...never existed?¡±


    ¡°No, not in the true sense. Otherwise called null or void. It means it never happened.¡± His voice became increasingly quiet. She could see the taut blue nerve in his forehead. It was remarkable he was so calm when the nerve popped so erratically. ¡°The basis of annulment can be if either partner is already married or is underage or unable to consent due to mental illness. There are other reasons but none of them are valid for us. The only ground on which we can seek annulment - or rather you can seek annulment is fraud.¡±


    ¡°Fraud?¡±


    He pursed his lips. If he had any sense of shame, it was quickly hidden behind a cold indifference. ¡°Yes. Fraud. I have spoken to the lawyers. A marriage can be nullified if either of the spouses was cheated into it. I¡¯ll accept I married you by fraud and that will be that. Normal divorce has a minimum of two years of wait before it''s granted. The lawyer says this is much quicker if both parties agree.¡±


    She didn¡¯t know when she leaned against the wall for support. Something was breaking inside her, she didn¡¯t know what.


    ¡°You are joking, right? You know I cannot do it. Dadaji will never be able to take it.¡±


    ¡°Dadaji will never know of it. It will stay between us two, Ma and the lawyer. Anyway, we are far away here in Delhi. As long as we maintain a show in front of Dadaji, it should be okay.¡±


    She sat on the bed, her legs unable to support her any longer. His eyes narrowed, the mask of indifference fading to reveal a panicked concern.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    She stared at him blankly. What a question! One she did not know how to answer herself. One that did not warrant an answer anyway.


    ¡°So you want me out of the way while you control the entire property.¡±


    His jaw clenched as his face snapped back to that hardened mask.


    ¡°I cannot help with that. I know you don¡¯t believe me and you are right not to, but I had no idea about Dadaji¡¯s will. Yes, I had my men everywhere in Palampur, but I never thought of placing someone in the lawyer¡¯s office.¡±


    Moreover, Dadaji conducted all his business from his study. And nobody knew what went behind those sound-proof walls. Her face coated with a sweaty sheen as her head felt heavy. He pursed his lips in that cruel way that told her he¡¯d made his decision.


    ¡°I have thought of this long and hard, and Ma agrees with me. It¡¯s the only way. You will be free of us. And I assure you I¡¯ll not abuse the power of attorney or any other power the will grants me. I¡¯ll act as a caretaker in the best interest of your family. And I¡¯ll relinquish control as soon as it¡¯s safe to do so.¡±


    Relinquish the control...that had a nice ring to it. He will relinquish it and she would regain it. But that may not be yet, until...


    ¡°I know it may not be until¡­ after Dadaji,¡± he looked tired even as he said it at last. She felt a swell in her eyes. ¡°And I know you do not trust me. But that¡¯s the best I can do to ease your burden. The doctor said you need a holiday. You can go on a holiday wherever you please, with whoever you please. You can choose to live somewhere else, with the condition that it remains inconspicuous. I will not bother you again.¡±


    They both fell silent as they stared at each other. The finality in his voice told her this was not up for argument. But why did she even want to argue she didn''t know. It just all felt too sudden, too much, too soon.


    *****


    This was what she wanted, she kept telling herself again and again, but her heartache did not recede. It squirmed, pained, and bled as if it was torn apart by a plunging knife.


    She did not see him again. Noon came and the lunch was served. She ate at the table with Karuna. The woman looked solemn, yet peaceful. Her talk was more open, free as if she too was released from some burden.


    She patted her hand and served her hot food - chapatis, curry, daal with generous helpings of homemade ghee. Accompanying it was a healthy green salad and her favorite dudhi kheer, she hadn¡¯t had it since her Ma died.


    ¡°Thank you for this,¡± she said before her throat clogged even further. Karuna shook her head.


    ¡°I am sorry for what you have to go through because of us¡±. Aditi noticed her ¡®us¡¯ meant her family which did not include her. ¡°I know you can¡¯t wait to leave, but for whatever time you are here, I want you to be happy.¡±


    That sounded easy. She had her freedom now; happiness should not be a problem. And the final relief will come after her Dadaji¡¯s death, which wasn¡¯t too far, was it?


    Her bite stuck in her throat and Karuna quickly got up to hand her a glass of water. Aditi coughed in a haphazard fit while the woman stroked her back to ease her up.


    ¡°There, there. Everything will be fine. You don¡¯t have to worry. I know my son can be a bit harsh at times, that¡¯s just he being hard on himself. But his heart is in the right place. I know he¡¯ll take care of everything and if he doesn¡¯t, I¡¯ll personally make sure he does.¡±


    That much reassurance was enough for her, she didn¡¯t know whether to laugh or cry. Something weird was happening, her eyes just won¡¯t stop tearing.


    ¡°I think I am done.¡± She left the last few bites uneaten and fled from there. She needed to think. She needed to sort herself out before she sank too deep.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 52

    She cried and slept; she slept and cried. She cried in her sleep and slept while she cried.


    Did it make a difference? No.


    The clock ticked on. The folder sat on her side table and watched her serenely. It called her; tempted her to pick it up, but she stubbornly stayed put.


    ¡°Go away!¡± she glared and pulled her covers to her chin. The folder smiled a serene smile.


    ¡°Come here! Sign me! You want your freedom, right?¡±


    She chewed her bottom lip. Yes, she wanted her freedom, but the price was too steep. She wasn¡¯t ready to pay it. She couldn¡¯t let go of the only person in her life who mattered to her. Beyond him, her life felt worthless. Not fit for living.


    ¡°But you are rich. You can afford it.¡± the voice cooed. ¡°You can point your finger at any random man and he¡¯d be at your feet. What¡¯s so great about Darsh Rathore?¡±


    Yeah, what was so great about him? He was an arrogant, hot-tempered, boorish git who did not have an ounce of tenderness inside him. He was just a chauvinist pig. All he knew was to take, take, take, and never to give anything in return.


    ¡°But he is giving you your freedom,¡± the voice breathed. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s a sign he¡¯s changed?¡±


    Her eyes burned again. Well, if he had changed, this was a fine way of showing it. It just stressed further that he didn¡¯t give a damn. His behavior, even forgetting the one before their marriage, was abominable. First, he¡¯d tried to force himself on her (well maybe she was too rude to him that night but even then, he had crossed his line), then he had been ghastly with Gaurav (well, maybe she should have picked his calls or at least left a message but even then, he had no business being rude to her friend,) and now he was being high-handed again, and forcing her out of his life. Well, her breakdown this last week must have scared the living daylights out of him. Maybe he didn¡¯t want to hurt her anymore. Maybe he did care, after all, not a lot, but just an incy-wincy-tincy bit.


    She pursed her lips as her irritation built up. Why was she making excuses for him? He didn''t deserve it after what he had done, after the countless despicable things she had suffered at his hands. She shouldn¡¯t leave this chance to get rid of him. It was a god-sent, her only way out of this mess.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care if he is changed or not!¡± she gritted through her teeth. ¡°And my freedom is mine to take, not his to give.¡±


    ¡°Then come and sign me.¡± The folder sounded bored. ¡°What are you waiting for? Your freedom is just a signature away. Come and take it.¡±


    She stalked to the side table and flipped the blasted folder open. As expected, it was beautiful. The top page was a perfect summary in the neat hand of her husband. It contained the premise, the problem, and the potential solutions with the pros and cons of each. Then in the end was his recommendation - the darned annulment, which again was underlined with a red pen. She shook her head in grudging admiration. So Mr. Rathore was not lying. This was a habit of his - to be so perfect, precise, clinical, and cut-throat. Blue pen for normal text, red for highlighting. The neat curvy letters mocked her as her face contorted with distaste.


    Well, he could take his neatness and stuff it where the sun doesn¡¯t shine. Her freedom was hers to take, not his to give. It was not a charity. She would take it on her terms, the way it suited her best.


    Pulling a drawer open, she extracted her reddest-of-the-reds lipstick, then proceeded to draw a big cross on the page. Right from the top-left to the bottom-right and then the other way. Underneath was the actual annulment application with his signature. It too received the same treatment. She used her mascara to blackface it before mutilating it further.


    Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    There. Now it looked perfect, just the way she liked it.


    This is what she would give him - a middle finger. That was what he deserved. If he thought it was so easy to get rid of her, he could think again.


    *****


    She cursed the folder to her heart¡¯s content, then clipped her toenails on it. Her heart filled with a divine serenity as she carried it to the bin when her husband stopped her in the lounge.


    ¡°What is that?¡± He frowned at the folder suspiciously, then shot forward, looking aghast. ¡°Is that my folder?¡±


    She rolled her eyes. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s the same folder. So?¡±


    "So what are you doing with it? Have you¡­ cut your nails on it?"


    ¡°Yes,¡± she pouted, enjoying his reaction. ¡°I put it to the best use I could. And now it¡¯s going to the dustbin.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡± He thundered as he snatched it from her and flipped it open. Aditi smiled as his face paled. He looked dumbstruck, just as she had expected him to be.


    ¡°Do you like my handiwork?¡± She asked solicitously, tilting her head. He looked lost for words.


    ¡°How dare you, Aditi? Do you know how long it took me to prepare it? How could you be so careless?¡±


    ¡°I am not careless. If you can throw our relationship in the dustbin, I can throw your folder. It¡¯s called tit-for-tat.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s called stupidity. This is not child¡¯s play. This is a serious matter. I am letting you go. You can have your life back and you¡­¡±


    ¡°I am not going anywhere and I am not letting you let me go. It¡¯s my choice, Darsh. I think it¡¯s time you gave me at least some say in the matter.¡±


    He stared at her ashen-faced, that nerve again thudding erratically. She straightened her back and crossed her arms as she accepted his challenge. They glared at each other, eye to eye, husband to wife. As expected, she won. He flushed and looked away.


    ¡°I am giving you a choice. I should have done it long before, even before I proposed marriage. I should have come clean then, but I was blind enough not to. I am just rectifying my mistake, Aditi. Just sign and go. You can have your life back. You won¡¯t have to suffer because of me.¡±


    If ever there was a clueless man, it was here. Didn¡¯t he understand it was too late? She kept her eye contact but felt the burn rising. It was hard not to blink and let the tears fall.


    ¡°As I said, it¡¯s my choice. And I have already made my decision. I¡¯ll stay as long as I want and go when I think I want to. You don¡¯t get a say in it, Darsh, not anymore.¡±


    *****


    A door thudded then the lock turned as his wife disappeared into her room. Darsh stared after her, then at his poor folder. The way it had died its death was horrible. He hadn''t expected his delicate wife to be so savage.


    Sighing, he dumped it in the bin. He could have gotten more copies, but it was no use. They were all destined for the bin unless she changed her mind.


    An insane laughter bubbled in his throat. Did this really happen? Had his wife just foiled his big plan with strokes of her makeup?


    This was ridiculous. This was insane, This was just... too good to be true!


    His brain felt blinded as all the lights suddenly turned on. He blinked rapidly. She was staying. She was staying. She was not leaving him, was it even possible?


    He rushed to the kitchen and hugged his Ma, giving her the good news. She just raised her eyebrows as if she knew it all along.


    ¡°She is giving you a chance, Beta. Make sure you don¡¯t break her heart again.¡±


    He became solemn as he nodded, then skipped to his room, grinning like a teenager. Yes, it was a chance, something to look forward to, something he''d hoped for desperately. After years, his star was shining brightly. This time, he would make sure nothing went wrong. This time, he would make sure he did everything perfectly just as his wife wanted.


    He wanted her to be happy. He wanted her safe. And more than everything, he wanted her to be with him forever and ever and ever.


    *****


    The next morning Aditi woke up to find Karuna Ma gone. She had some urgent matter again at her NGO, her husband told her while smiling as he served her breakfast. Shanta bai, too, had disappeared. It seemed one of her distant relatives had suddenly taken ill.


    Aditi flushed as she gobbled her food, wishing she had never come out of her room. It was so obvious what they were thinking. It was so obvious, what her husband was thinking that it made her go red.


    She pursed her lips and shot him a scathing look. He was whistling. Whistling, while he washed up at the sink.


    ¡°I need to go somewhere,¡± she said as he turned back. ¡°Wonder if you would like to play the chauffeur?¡±


    ¡°Sure. I am at your service, Princess.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t overact.¡± she curled her lip. ¡°And think again. You¡¯ll have to stay with me the whole day, do as I say, take me wherever I want to go. And all this without saying a word, that''s the main condition.¡±


    His smile stayed. ¡°Your wish is my command, Princess. I¡¯ll be a good chauffeur and the best dumb husband ever.¡±


    She smiled sweetly. ¡°Good. I hope it''s not too much of an effort. Now go get ready. We are leaving in twenty minutes.¡±


    ***** *****

 Chapter 53

    Twenty minutes later Darsh stood next to his car waiting for his wife. His face was flushed; his heart bubbled with excitement. Try as he might, he couldn''t hide the stupid grin on his face.


    Where would she want to go? Shopping? Yes, that must be it. All girls liked shopping. And Aditi needed to shop desperately. She lived in her cotton dresses that she used for her clinic and for any important functions, she wore her mother''s sarees. Maybe a trip to a shopping mall was what she had in mind. Followed by a lovely dinner in some plush restaurant, oh how he would love to show off his knowledge of go-to places in Delhi, not to mention show her off in those happening places, now that would be fun.


    Smiling, he shook his head and leaned against his car. It would be their first proper date. His first proper date after... well, let''s just say after a very long time.


    He snapped up straight as Aditi stepped out a few minutes later and locked the door behind her. Her face was solemn, though he caught a flash of unease before she hid it quickly.


    "Let''s go."


    She dropped her keys in the bag as she came down the steps towards him. A soft breeze blew her dupatta sideways hugging her gentle curves as her hair too ran sideways tickling her face. For a moment his heart stilled. He wondered - or rather hoped - if she would twist her ankle and fall right into his arms like on their engagement night. But to his chagrin, nothing of the sort happened. She stood resolutely upright and waited for him to do his chauffeur duties. Sighing, he moved forward to open the car door for her.


    "Where to, madam?"


    "To Fortis Hospital." She gave him a cursory glance before getting in. "To Vicki."


    *****


    Three hours later they had moved Vicki to a private nursing home owned by a Dr. Arindam Chatterjee. He was one of the best neurosurgeons in India - Darsh was told - and looking at the whole setup, he had no doubts. It was not a nursing home but a holistic resort of some sort. Tucked in a leafy suburb of Delhi, it was as remote as possible and hence blissfully quiet. The important thing was that it was not huge. It was a modest size, just large enough to accommodate all its state-of-the-art facilities yet conspicuously small to cater to only a select few.


    Darsh watched as four helpers in sharp blue uniforms moved Vicki to a special room. His wife watched over them, looking pale yet composed, instructing them about what went where. Ten minutes later Dr. Chatterjee himself arrived with a slew of his assistants. Along with him was Dr. Asthana - Aditi''s dean and the famous neuroscientist who was also her best friend''s dad.


    He stood by his wife, his rolled fists characteristically stuffed in his pockets, as the coterie of doctors discussed his brother. His breath was uneven, his face was ashen. His wife mirrored his state but held herself much better than him. A couple of times she touched his arm to soothe his nerves. She looked apologetic, he sighed and shook his head. There was nothing to apologize for, at least not for her. His turmoil was of his own making. On one side was the shame that he hadn''t thought of visiting his brother himself. On the other side was the anger that he was here at all. This was the man who''d raped his wife. This was the man who''d committed the heinous crime his own father had committed all those years ago. He was repulsed to even be here in the same room as Vicki, and he was repulsed at himself for having such double standards. He himself was no saint. He had lost his moral high ground not too long ago.


    Sighing he ran a weary hand through his hair. If this was his state, he couldn''t imagine what Aditi was going through. She looked stoic, yet he knew her scars ran deep.


    The discussion continued for ages. At some point, Darsh moved away to stare out of the window. His chest was heavy, his throat felt achy. He wasn''t as magnanimous as Aditi to forgive his brother, nor could he forget the innocent face of the child they had taken in all those years ago. Something had gone wrong in those growing years. Maybe it was his own mistake or the influence of his unknown father. Or maybe they all had it in them, it only took a moment''s lapse to show their real faces.


    His fists clenched and unclenched as he stared out with unseeing eyes. Time trickled away without anyone noticing but him. He wished he had the power to undo it all - to go back in time and change the day when he allowed Vicki to go on that accursed holiday. He wished that dreadful night had never happened. He wished he himself hadn''t gone on that revenge trip, full of vile prejudices and evil plans. Then he would not have met his wife the way he did.


    Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.He wished he''d met her in different circumstances. Much earlier. Years ago, maybe even before...


    ...before he could complete the thought, a voice caught him from behind.


    "I am sorry this took long, Mr. Rathore." Dr. Chatterjee spoke to him in a pleasant voice. "But it''s just a routine procedure when we admit new patients. I hope you found everything to your satisfaction?"


    "Everything looks great, doctor. Thank you so much." Darsh smiled as his eyes trailed to his wife. She was talking to Dr. Asthana, he was asking her if he could visit with his daughter. Her eyes raised to him in question and he dipped his in affirmation. Her smile when she turned to Dr. Asthana lit him from within as if after days of murky rain there was a sunny morning.


    Dr. Chatterjee talked some more. He didn''t give false hopes, but he did not sound gloomy. All they could do was try, he said, the rest was best left to fate.


    Darsh agreed wholeheartedly as the doctors bid goodbye. His pulse raised as they were finally left alone and Aditi walked to him, still smiling but a little unsure.


    "Are you okay?" They both spoke in unison, then looked abashed. Flustered, she bit her lip and he ran an amused hand in his hair trying to buy some time to adjust his expression.


    "I am sorry if I''ve caused you distress," she ventured eventually. "I know I should have asked you before, but..."


    "But you thought I''d never agree," he quirked a lip as he completed her sentence. She shook her head.


    "And would you have agreed?"


    "Probably not," he shrugged. "But now that we are here, I am happy you didn''t ask me."


    Her face cleared of the fog and she smiled happily. He knew his face too reflected the same relieved expression.


    "So where to next, Princess?" He asked with a mock bow. "Your chauffeur is ready."


    "The chauffeur looks tired," she grimaced, then pouted. "And the princess is hungry. Maybe it''s time for a lunch break."


    Smiling, they walked out. Lunch it was then. It was nearly four in the afternoon and they both were hungry. But they were so far out of his usual area he didn''t know any good places to eat here. In the end, they settled for a small roadside dhaba and ordered their ''daily special'', whatever it was. As it turned, it was delicious. Dahl-tadka, butter roti, jeera-rice and palak paneer. Lip-smacking, if he judged by his wife who herself looked like a red chili yet couldn''t help but slurp the spicy curry and lick her fingers. Her eyes watered, and her nose ran, her chubby cheeks were red like ripe tomatoes. Yet she looked ecstatic as if it was the best food ever. He enjoyed the food as much as he enjoyed watching her. Hot and spicy was the flavor of his day, and maybe the rest of his life.


    They ate a lot, talked much more, and smiled a lot more. By the time they were done, it was nearing six.


    "What now?" He asked obediently as he paid the bill. "Any other special plans?"


    She tapped at her chin thoughtfully, then grinned.


    "Nothing special. Just take me home and we''ll go for a walk. Then maybe some ice cream?"


    *****


    He had questions, many questions such as why she was doing this for Vicki. How had she forgiven him, and now that she had forgiven Vicki, did he too have a reason to hope?


    But he didn''t ask them. A - She was giving him a chance. B - For once it felt like the past did not have a bearing on their present. Vicki didn''t matter, that night didn''t matter. His own deeds had taken a backseat. For once it felt like they were free, from this moment onward, their story would be written anew.


    They walked and talked and chatted with all those who met them along the way. He introduced his wife proudly and she mingled with them with her natural ease. The night that felt so dark and gloomy just a few days ago now sparkled with hope. He didn''t know his life would take this turn, or maybe it took this turn long ago, he''d just refused to acknowledge it.


    It was nearly eleven when they got back, exhausted, yet happy, their hearts full to the brim. It was time to go to bed, to take a stock of the situation, and where they were heading. Maybe to dream a little, he didn''t know. Now that he thought about it, he had been dreaming ever since he met his wife.


    Faces flushed, they stood in the dimly lit hallway. The night was suddenly quiet, so quiet they could hear each other''s heartbeats.


    "Thank you for today," he reached for her hand and pressed his lips on the bare skin. She shivered but didn''t take her hand back.


    "I hope my performance today was to your satisfaction," his eyes crinkled as he watched her. "Do let me know about tomorrow''s task. I am sure I''ll excel in it as well."


    She flushed harder and pulled her hand back. "Don''t be so sure, Mr. Rathore. Tomorrow is another day. And haven''t you got to go to the office?"


    He shrugged. "Office can wait. I kind of like this job better."


    "Well then." She put her nose in the air. "I''ll see you tomorrow. And be ready to be surprised, tomorrow''s task is going to be a lot harder."


    She walked to her room in haughty pride, then turned at the door to give him a look. Eyes twinkling, he cocked his head in mock salute.


    "Good night Mrs. Rathore. Sleep well."


    She pursed her lips, then shut the door with a thud. He felt a laugh bubbling. Yeah...life was suddenly good, much more worth living than it ever was.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 54 - A Date to Remember

    The next day''s task proved not only difficult but nearly impossible. Darsh stared aghast as his wife directed him to stop the car near Patel Nagar. Patel Nagar was Delhi''s biggest slum - the biggest, the baddest, and the most hazardous place he could think of in the whole of Delhi. A cluster of dilapidated shanties, it was home to all sorts of shady businesses not to mention a thriving red light area just a street away. This was without doubt the worst place he could bring his wife to.


    "What are we doing here?" He asked refusing to get out of the car. He pressed the lock button to make sure his wife wouldn''t be able to open any windows or doors. The stink of the open gutters was getting to him, mingled with other odors of life making him gag.


    "We are here to meet Gaurav." Aditi realized what he''d done and frowned, crossing her arms. "You are going to apologize to him and ask him nicely to let your wife work here."


    "Work here?" He was flabbergasted.


    "Yes." She gave him a shifty yet defiant glance. "Gaurav runs a charity clinic here with some of his friends. They need a lady doctor. I have offered him to work here."


    Charity clinic? Is that what Gaurav Dhaliwal had promised her?


    Slowly his face cleared as he tried to digest what she was saying. This was not a normal clinic. This was to replace the hospital that he had snatched from her. Her hospital, her clinic in Palampur, her dreams that he had so callously trampled upon. She wanted it back, on her terms.


    This was a test. A test for him to prove he was willing to put his ego aside and rectify his mistakes. And a test for her to validate her decision to reject that annulment. If he failed today, as might as well kiss goodbye his chance at this marriage. After all, she hadn''t said she''d stay in the marriage, she had merely said she wanted to decide it for herself.


    His heartbeat raised as he evaluated his options. His first instinct was to refuse straight away, to get her out of here as fast as possible and wipe her memory of this ever happening. His second instinct was to call Gaurav Dhaliwal out. Then give the man a piece of his mind that he would remember forever, and then wipe his wife''s memory out. His last option was to basically do nothing. In other words, give in quietly as his wife risked herself every day.


    Needless to say, he couldn''t let that happen, and equally needless to say she wasn''t going to listen to him. It was her passion, her vocation, not some frivolous time-pass as he had accused her when he''d met her first. It mattered to her then and it mattered to her now. And it also mattered how he handled this.


    She was watching him closely, her face hopeful yet shadows of doubt and fear flitted past it. This was as much about the clinic as about her decision to stay in the marriage. She had taken a bet on him, trusting her instincts. Letting her down now would be the end of him.


    He sighed as he pulled the cap of a water bottle and glugged half of it. Gaurav Dhaliwal was a moron, he''d have to deal with him later. But for now, he had to handle his innocent wife.


    "Darsh?" She was still waiting for his response. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and shook his head.


    "Fine. As you wish. But before that, I have a few things to discuss."


    They reversed out of the filthy alley, back the way they came. He drove slowly through the winding traffic taking longer roads that were not even on their route. Once out of that slum, he felt much better, yet he needed some time to think.


    His wife still looked confused.


    "So you are not angry?"


    "No."


    "Are you sure?"


    "Yes."


    "So you will apologize to Gaurav?" He took a moment before answering that.


    "I''ll talk to Gaurav. Don''t worry."


    "But you won''t insult him again?"


    "I won''t insult him," he pursed his lips. "but it would be a man-to-man talk." He did not bother to elaborate. She gave him a suspicious look but seemed satisfied.


    He sighed before launching into a gentle conversation about Patel Nagar. He didn''t want to scare her but she needed to be warned. And then he put forth his terms and conditions.


    "You''ll work only in the daytime and be back home before six."


    She stiffened and turned in her seat to give him a hurtful look. He stared right ahead, not wishing to be distracted by those big brown puppy eyes.


    "You will not travel with anyone, nor will you travel alone. I will drop you and pick you up every day and if I can''t, I''ll send Ashok."


    "Ashok?"


    "He is my right-hand man. I trust him like you trust Zorawar."


    She humphed. "Zorawar is one of a kind. You cannot compare him with anyone."


    "Zorawar is a jerk," Darsh spat. "If it was not for him..."


    If it was not for him, there wouldn''t be any problem in his marriage. His secret would have been safe, even forgotten. And by now he would have had his honeymoon at least three times over, that was how much he hated the blasted scoundrel.


    His hands clutched the steering wheel in an attempt to steady his wandering thoughts. She glared at him, totally unaware.


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    "Fine! Anything else?"


    "A few more things." He said as they stopped outside a mall. "Don''t go around flashing your money in this clinic. Don''t make any promises to anyone. And most importantly, don''t expect them to give you the same respect you received in Palampur. Remember, this is Delhi. These people do not know you or your Dadaji."


    Her face paled and he wondered if she already had done some of those very mistakes. Which was entirely possible considering she had already spent one whole day working there.


    "Is that all?" she looked at him daggers. Shaking his head, he moved on to the last bit.


    "I wanted to take you shopping but I think your current wardrobe is much better for this clinic." Her face flushed again, this time her cheeks too puffed making them look like the butt of a red baboon. He stifled a laugh. "And we need to buy you some fake jewelry. Gold won''t do in that area, I have seen people losing their lives for less."


    Her eyes widened as she clutched at her neck, her fingers winding possessively around her pendant and mangalsutra. His eyes softened as he had a crushing urge to hide her in his arms.


    "It''s okay," he shook his head to clear off the image. Why he was getting so sentimental he didn''t know. "It''s just for the clinic. You can wear what you want afterward."


    *****


    They did shop for her, he couldn''t stay his hand once they were inside the mall. He felt like Alice in a wonderland, everywhere was stuff he wanted to buy for his wife. Now that his test was over he was over the moon. He had passed with flying colors, he knew it just by looking at her glowing face. Glowing yet solemn, she appeared to be in some deep thought. Quietly, she watched him when she thought he wasn''t looking. He gave her plenty of opportunities as he pretended to be looking at dresses for her. Her mind wasn''t on shopping though, she just nodded a yes to anything he chose. The only time she took active interest was when they headed to the jewelry section where she chose a small black beaded necklace with barely any frills. It didn''t have to be that simple, he wanted to say, but was silenced again by that weird tender sensation bubbling up. He paid the bills as his wife put on that silly chain around her neck and turned to smile at him. Shaking his head, he grabbed her hand and walked out.


    *****


    Their next stop was a plush restaurant as he''d planned for his second date. It was a rooftop garden restaurant in Empire Skyline, the tallest building in Delhi. Open to the starry sky, a cool breeze wove through think green bushes of Junipers. Bunches of violet tailed down the wisteria trellises, and the air hummed with the scent of honeysuckles. This was the closest to Palampur he could have brought her. He looked at her to see the effect but could see the ambiance was not the foremost thing on her mind.


    He readied himself for the questions that he knew were long coming.


    "Why are you doing this?" She asked they sat in a private booth and the food was served. Today it was much fancier than yesterday, but she didn''t even notice.


    "Because I want this to work for us," he said sighing.


    "And why do you want it to work?" her voice was curiously quiet.


    "Erm...because you are my wife?" He felt a smile bubbling.


    "Is that all?"


    "Of course. You are my wife and I want this marriage to work. What else do you want to hear?"


    What was the matter with her? Was she too tired or what? He started to pour her a glass of the special red he had chosen for tonight when she picked up the glass of water. She looked lost as she sipped slowly, almost as though she was trying to hide the disappointed droop of her mouth.


    Frowning he replayed their exchange in his mind. Had he made a gaffe? Was he supposed to say something different?


    "I am not doing this for money if that''s what you are thinking," he said in a belligerent tone. "I am past that. And I do care for you, genuinely. I want this to work for both of us, I want us to be happy, I want you to be happy..." His voice trailed away as he realized he was sounding pathetic. A waiter walked past their booth clearing his throat. Aditi looked startled, her face reddening in embarrassment.


    "Please. I didn''t mean that. You don''t need to justify."


    Lowering her eyes she focussed on her plate. He had a distinct feeling he had bungled up. It seemed like his test wasn''t over yet. He had let his guard down too soon and was now staring at a mess.


    What did she want him to say anyway? He raked his brain trying to think straight. She''d asked why he was doing all this. Usually, people answered such questions with ''because I care for you...'' or ''because I love you...'' followed by a tender look that confirmed their feelings. He hadn''t even thought of saying those things. His ''love confession'' in the past had just been a play of words.


    "I fell in love" as opposed to I love you.


    "I met a girl that I couldn''t let go" which was so true.


    "I couldn''t imagine my life without her." So very true!


    He couldn''t say all that now. Did it mean... he had lost his chance?


    His face hardened as he tried to catch his breath. Stupid, stupid, stupid, he was. A moron of the first grade, but then he really couldn''t say what he clearly didn''t believe himself, could he?


    "Why did you not sign the annulment?" He plodded on trying hard to keep a calm facade. It was better to put the ball in her court. If he couldn''t say it, maybe she would.


    "Because I wanted to see if this could work." She was calm but he could sense the tremor in her voice.


    "And do you think it could work?" He asked ashen-faced, knowing where this was heading. She met his eyes briefly, then looked away.


    "That depended on your previous answer."


    *****


    So he didn''t love her. That was not news but now it was confirmed. Neither did he want her money anymore. He wanted their relationship to work because they were already in a relationship, so to speak. He wanted to carry on as it is and achieve his happily ever after. With no love in the equation, maybe it was possible for him but not her.


    Silence prevailed as they reached home and she went to her room. Shutting the door behind her, she sat on the floor burying her face in her knees. So here she was, after a month-long marriage, after a slightly longer ''courtship'' and after god-knew how many unfulfilled dreams and desires she did not even know she had. She had always thought she deserved love, was even entitled to it. That was a part of the reason she had been able to resist Vivaan and his likes. After all, her parent''s story was legendary, and being their only child, she was bound to share at least some of their good luck. But apparently, that was not the case. Uncle Dawar was right. No man would love her for what she was. She''d better accept her destiny and move on.


    Tired. She was tired, achy, weary to the bone. Something dry and itchy coiled in her core. It was angry, frustrated, tensed for a reason she couldn''t fathom. After a day full of a tantalizing promise, its anticlimactic end had left it unsettled - hungry, thirsty, aching for more. Her eyes prickled as it hissed and twisted, burning her innards. She wished it would go away. She wished it would leave her alone so she could cry in peace.


    Life, that had seemed so shiny until a few hours ago had suddenly lost its sheen. The hope with which she had rejected the annulment was suddenly lost. She wished she would drop dead now never to wake up. Never to see the face of the one man she loved so desperately and who couldn''t even think of returning her feelings.


    Funny thing was that she didn''t even blame him. It was not his fault if he couldn''t love her. At least he was not lying about it, which was no small thing.


    *****


    She slept fitfully, barely closing her eyes before waking up in a state. The night was muggy, probably it might rain later. She padded to the window to open it but the humid earthy scent set her on the edge even worse. She was both hot and cold. Her face felt heated. Frazzled, she opened the top buttons of her nightdress rubbing her flushed skin. Something was wrong, a sudden pull in her core, a sudden dryness in her throat that left her aching.


    Water. She needed water. Picking up the empty jug from her bedside table she padded to the kitchen. The light was on. Her husband was standing next to the fridge holding a glass of water.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 55 - Gone Girl

    He was shirtless. In the ambient lights of the kitchen, his silhouette looked tantalizing. She had seen many, but none like him.


    Swallowing a dry gulp, she turned to go back to her room. This was clearly not a good time to get water. Maybe she should return later. When it was safer.


    She had barely taken a step when he called her.


    "You can take water, you know. I am not going to eat you."


    Grimacing, she turned back to walk into the kitchen. Was her gown too rumpled? Was it too... see-through? Did it need to be when the top buttons were undone?


    She cursed herself and walked to the fridge, willing herself not to clutch at her neck. Next time she''d have to remember not to walk around half-naked. This was not the right time, nor the right place, and definitely not the right man.


    Leaning against the worktop, he watched her casually as he twirled a glass of water in his long fingers. His muscled shoulders were hunched, his other hand stuffed in his baggy pants pulling them down to the V of his flat stomach. She tried not to look. He was definitely the finest specimen of the male species she had come across. How she would love to use a scalpel to open his heart and carve her name on it - now that would be the ultimate revenge!


    Startled, she shook her head. Sour grape, he was. She would never get him. He would never want her the way she wanted him. Why couldn''t he just go and put a damned shirt on, she didn''t know.


    "If you are done you can go." She reminded him crossly as she emptied a cold bottle into her jug. He raised an eyebrow but didn''t move.


    "I would like to continue our conversation."


    "The conversation has ended. There''s nothing more to talk about."


    "It''s not ended until we get a satisfactory outcome."


    "Just because you don''t like the outcome doesn''t mean you are allowed to change it. There are two parties involved, remember?" Her eyes glistened as she gave him a scathing look. He went quiet, his eyes unbearably tender. His silent gaze bore into her until she flushed and looked away. Why did it feel like he had more to say than he let on? But then why did not let it out if he had more to say?


    "I am leaving. Good night." Restless, she turned to the door when he shot forward to block her. Her head spun as a musky scent hit her nose. It was the scent of his damp skin, the salty odor of his body. It reeked of...maleness. Shivering, she tried to shift herself out of its hazy stupor when his arm went around her waist. Gentle, it was, not even too insistent, but enough to send her body in an infuriating shock.


    He smiled as his hand came to rest on her hot cheek.


    "I don''t think you liked the outcome either."


    "What makes you think so?"


    "You. Your face, your flush, and the fact that you are here."


    She felt herself coloring. "I am only here because I''m hot and thirsty." Ermmm...that didn''t sound very right. She looked at him confused only to see a mysterious grin on his face.


    "Me too."


    His gravelly voice brought her jitters. She stared at him, her heart thudding erratically yet her throat ached in suffocation. How easy it was for him to say those flirty things and how difficult it was for her even to contemplate them. This - when he was her husband and she was his legally wedded wife. She felt like an imposter like she didn''t deserve this tenderness, like she was in someone else''s place, someone he loved, who deserved these moments more than her.


    Shameless, she was, to stand here in the arms of a man who didn''t love her. As if a begger waiting for a morsel at a door that was long past slammed in his face.


    She closed her eyes as a tear fell. A pitiful whimper escaped her lips as she swayed on her feet. Alarmed, he shot forward to grab her shoulders.


    "Aditi! Are you okay?"


    She didn''t answer. She couldn''t. His arms wrapped around her, hugging her close. It felt so nice here - warm, safe, cherished. Did he cherish her? Yes, she knew he did. There was no question about that, he had proved it umpteen times. Maybe not the way she wanted, but if she just forgot that part... then it will be alright. If she just...let go, she will be alright.


    She closed her eyes as she leaned into his arms, giving herself away. He hugged her closer, but was confused.


    "Aditi? What happened? Please tell me you are ok..." Darsh stroked her head worriedly, then wrenched her away to look at her. Turning, he dipped his fingers in the cold water of his glass and sprinkled it on her face. She opened her eyes and smiled. Here was the proof. He did care, in his own way. He had done it so many times before, how could she forget?


    "Hold me Darsh." She inched closer to nuzzle her face to his chest, broad, hard, safe.


    Yeah...maybe if she did this, all her problems would be solved. All those dastardly doubts would fly away. She just needed to trust. Forget and forgive, as her Dadaji said. Like yesterday, like today, it could be the same every day. If only she stopped expecting what she couldn''t possibly get. If only she stopped begging for the love that was never hers. He was her husband, what else did she want? Life will be heaven, if only she stopped thinking too much. Yeah... Maybe this was the way to go - relinquish control, and go with the flow. Holding herself back had never worked, maybe losing herself to this man would?


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    "Aditi? Are you okay?" He asked tucking a loose tendril away from her clammy face.


    She gazed at him tenderly, her haze taking over her brain. Or was it the heat? She did not know. All she wanted now was to be with him, forever and ever and ever. It didn''t matter if he didn''t love her. It took a special kind of shamelessness to do this, but if she just managed this, everything will be fine.


    "You want me to give you a chance, right?" She asked through her lashes.


    "Yes." He pursed his lips, frowning at her as if she was ill. "I want us to be together."


    "Of course. What can you give me in return?"


    He sighed. "You can have anything, Aditi. In fact, everything that is mine is yours."


    "Not everything, no." she laughed as if it was the biggest joke. Everything that was his was not hers. She did not have his heart. Maybe he''d already given it to someone else. Yes, that must be it. Now that she thought of it, it felt entirely possible. How lucky the woman was, not in his life, yet in his heart.


    No, she didn''t want his heart, she shook her head decisively. She wanted the rest of him. Yes, that was it!


    She gave him a curious look. This was what he''d wanted all the way. This was what he had planned all along. Now that she wanted it too, how would he take it?


    She shuffled closer to press herself to him. Her long fingers ran through his messy hair feeling the silken feel. It didn''t matter if he didn''t love her, her love was enough for both of them. It didn''t matter if he couldn''t give his heart, her heart was large enough for both of them. Once the unnecessary jargon was cleared, what was left was crystal clear - the very physical, raw, hunger; an insatiable need that gnawed at her bones clouding her brain.


    Rising on her tiptoes she planted a gentle kiss on his cheek. He looked startled, taken aback.


    "Aditi, stop this, please. Are you drunk?" Frowning, he put his fingers on her brow to check her temperature. It was hot, yes, she was hot. Sighing he checked her pulse at her wrist. It was racing, her breath was so haggard.


    "You wanted this, right?" she pulled back, cupping his face with her clammy hand. "You wanted me to be sensible, you wanted us to get on like a normal couple?"


    "Yes, I did. But not like this." His face was red, not with heat but with something else. Was it anger? Guilt? Or his trademark shame? "Come back to your senses Aditi. Please." He shook her haphazardly, his desperation getting the better of him. Her hair fell on her face, then back, some sticking to her wet face. She smiled through her traces as she looked at him. He was so adorable when he acted with such concern.


    "I am in my senses." Her voice was quiet, decisive enough to tell him she meant what she said. She didn''t even know what was senseless about it, she was a grown woman, demanding her right from her own husband.


    "I need you. Now. Once you said you''d heal me. Do it now Darsh Rathore. Now is your chance. Take it now or hold your peace forever. I won''t bother you again, but then I won''t be here to bother you again."


    He looked flabbergasted. "What do you mean?"


    "I mean I''d be gone." She shrugged as if it was the most obvious of the things. "Tomorrow morning, or maybe tonight itself. You don''t have to worry."


    "This is insane," he gave her an incredulous look. "Have you gone crazy? You don''t want this Aditi, not like this.  Come back to your senses..."


    "I said I am in my senses!" she snapped in irritation and shirked him away. Stepping to the sink, she picked up a small kitchen knife that lay on the drying rack. It was sharp enough to do the job but not like her favorite scalpel. She tested the edge on her wrist to draw a little blood. Just a little, to confirm it was in working order.


    "C''mon Darsh, let''s get on with it. We''ve been married a month. And didn''t you say before you''d take care of me?"


    "Aditi." He closed his eyes tiredly, his own tear trickling down his face. Why was he crying she didn''t understand. Shouldn''t he be happy?


    Sighing, he hid his wet face in his hands, rubbing his eyes until they turned blood red. Irritated, she marched forward and wrenched his hands away.


    "So? What have you decided?"


    He gave her a hard look, his jaw set like a stone mask. Pursing his lips decisively he straightened himself, then pulled her closer to kiss her on the mouth.


    *****


    He was gentle. So gentle it didn''t even feel like it was him. The way he caressed her, cuddled her and kissed the top of her head a hundred times felt more like a lullaby - as if he wanted her to fall asleep before anything happened. But she refused to fall asleep. Tonight was hers. She would get what was her due. He may hold back his heart but the rest was hers to claim.


    Smiling she got up and got rid of her flimsy dress. The stark walls of his room glimmered as she walked toward him. He looked dazed, yet somehow still in control. His eyes resolutely stayed on her face, refusing to wander southwards.


    "Aditi, are you sure..."


    Of course, she was. What was there to be unsure of? This was how the ''arrangement'' was supposed to work all along, right? This was what they had planned for her, she was just executing the instructions to the last detail.


    She stood by the bed, next to him as he sat against the pillow, breathing hard. Moments passed as she stared at his grim face, a shadow of doubt flickering in her heart. But she quashed them before they took hold. This was the right thing to do. All along, this was the right thing to do.


    She pulled him closer, gently pressing his head to her naked bosom, raking her fingers through his hair, consoling him in a soft voice.


    "It''s okay Darsh. We are in this together."


    *****


    Morning came. Aditi woke up to a gentle chirping of birds. The room was still dark as the curtains were pulled, but she could make out a thin strip of light underneath.


    What time was it? Squinting her eyes she looked around, to her bedside table for her clock. But it wasn''t there, wait, this was not her room.


    Last night...they had come here to spend the night. He had carried her up, his face in a mask, slowly, so slowly she could have counted the steps ten times over. Did he think she''d change her mind? She shook her head as she smiled. No. Her days of dithering were over. Her days of waiting for someone to do the right thing were over. She was in a mess that she had to sort herself. And if it meant someone else suffered, then be it.


    Smiling she pushed herself up on her elbows and sat against the pillow. She was hurting, it was not easy, but then she hadn''t expected it to be. Luckily her husband was gentle, too gentle for her liking. Not once did she think he lost control. Not once did he look like he wasn''t regretting this.


    Well, each to his own. She definitely wasn''t regretting it. It felt like she was finally free, really, truly, and irreversibly.


    Smiling she yawned and stretched her arms to relieve the sweet ache. There was a knock on the door and Shanta bai entered.


    "Good Morning," the woman said as she took in the scene. There was nothing to look at, her husband had cleared the mess, but the rumpled bed and her own state confirmed her understanding. The woman smiled approvingly. "Karuna Madam wants to know if you''d come down for breakfast?"


    ***** *****

 Chapter 56. Suppose... it never happened.

    Darsh was out of the town on some business trip, Kaurna Ma told her smiling as she served her freshly made pancakes. Along with it were strawberries, custard, cream, and a tall mug of strong black coffee. It reminded her of home.


    "Darsh said you had a headache last night. So I let you sleep late. How are you feeling now?"


    "I am okay." Aditi shook her head, her face coloring red. She wished he was here, she wanted to see if he was okay. After her own revival, she was feeling particularly magnanimous. The world suddenly seemed a better place. After the last night, her husband suddenly seemed a better man.


    But he was gone. A day passed, then two. She waited with bated breath. Her night of passion had loosened her knots. She wanted him home, safe and sound.


    Well, there was no sign of Darsh. Instead, three days later Ashok appeared to ferry her to the clinic. As per her wishes, her husband had spoken to Gaurav. There was no confrontation. Darsh had been very polite, practical, and to the point.


    "Quite an interesting man, your husband is," Gaurav mused when they spoke on the phone. "He gave me a long list of Do''s and Don''ts, I feel like I''m on nanny duty. But one thing is for sure - he cares for you a lot. I think we''d be good friends."


    Aditi listened with her heart thudding, the yearning in her belly growing unbearable. She couldn''t wait to see him. Oh, why was he not here now that she was toeing his line?


    Maybe because it was not really what he wanted, a little voice told her caustically. Maybe he himself didn''t know what he wanted. Maybe you didn''t know what you wanted and hurt him unintentionally.


    Clutching her heart she sat on her bed. Their bed. Well, it didn''t matter who wanted what. It was all settled now. They were married and were supposed to live like a married couple. And then she loved him with all her heart, her soul, and now her body too. The fact that he withheld his heart did not matter anymore. He will come around eventually, they all did, didn''t they?


    A day later she started the clinic. Karuna Ma came to see the place for herself. Unlike the son, the mother''s face brightened when she saw Patel Nagar. It was just the right kind of place for her to start the next round of her social service.


    Aditi smiled and shook her head. The mother-son duo was one of a kind. And for some weird reason, or rather a very obvious reason, she felt she belonged. This was her family now, this was a place she could call home. She just wished her husband was back, then they would be complete.


    *****


    It was then that Aditi started getting those texts. She was at the clinic the first time she got it, writing a prescription for an old lady. It had been a week since she started work and nearly two weeks since Darsh left. Aditi was agitated, at the end of her tether. Time and again her eyes filled; time and again her heart ached. Maybe she acted rashly; maybe she had succumbed to her anger and bitterness. Maybe she had taken it out on him in the worst possible way. But surely, he should come back so they could at least have a shouting match?


    "So the bitch and the bastard are happy together."


    The text from a withheld number beeped on her screen. Aditi stopped mid-way while writing her prescription and frowned at her phone.


    "I miss you," said the following line.


    Her pen clattered to the desk. Who the hell was this? This must be some joke. A ghastly joke from a weirdo who thought it was okay to call her and her husband names. Or maybe they sent it accidentally. This was not meant for her at all. Frowning, she was about to put the phone away when another text popped on her screen.


    "Do you miss me, Aditi? Please say you do. After all, I was there first."


    *****


    "I was there first."


    What did it mean? Was it from him? Them? Either of them?


    Her head swirled and she gripped the edge of the table for support. The old woman fidgeted restlessly drawing her attention.


    Gathering herself Aditi wrote the prescription and sent the woman on her way. The next patient was about to enter but she couldn''t wait anymore. With shaking fingers, she picked up the phone to call her husband. It went unanswered. She tried again. The ring twice, thrice, then he cut the call.


    *****


    A week later Darsh returned home. His mother welcomed him as he sat there smiling, telling her tales of his business trip. Aditi sat at the table, smiling yet holding her breath, her heart in her mouth as she read the latest text from her tormenter.


    "I love you," it said as a little heart emoji appeared next to it. Then came a sweet smiley followed by a red rose.


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    "Remember our time together, sweetheart? Or did you forget it after all?"


    Her hands shaking she stood up as the other two halted their conversation to give her a look. It was the first time in the past two hours her husband looked at her. Her heart skipped a beat as their eyes met. She was about to smile when his sharp voice cut through her.


    "Any problem, Aditi?"


    "Just a text from a patient. I need to call her up." She swallowed a hard lump before giving an apologetic smile, then rushed out of the room.


    *****


    The night wore on. An hour passed, then two. Darsh wondered if he should go to his room. His mother had already warned him to sort things out. She was disappointed in him, ashamed even, given the state of his wife for the past three weeks.


    "I don''t think she sleeps," his Ma had said in a caustic voice. "She eats a little, smiles a little. Most of the time she looks lost. I think she is too stressed."


    Of course, she was stressed. As he himself was. The weight of the night was still heavy on him. For three weeks, he had hidden away like a coward, trying to come to terms with it. It was all his fault. He had driven her to it. His misdeeds had finally broken her innocence, turning her into this vengeful beast. He wondered if she remembered that night as he did. If she''d seen the pain, the heartbreak, the senseless yearning in his face that he had so clearly seen in hers. All she had wanted was to punish him - punish him for ruining her life and punish herself for loving him despite that. Her pride couldn¡¯t let her stay and her love couldn¡¯t let her leave. It was a bitter act of the last resort- a night of his penance and her revenge.


    He deserved her punishment, he didnt deny that. But this time she had jumped in with him rather than watching cooly from the bridge. In that sense, he was luckier than Vivaan Raisingh. Vivaan hadn''t had that fortune.


    "Remember it''s your responsibility to sort it out Darsh." his Ma said before she retired to her room. "She is your wife, you owe it to her."


    Yes...he rubbed his eyes tiredly. It was his responsibility but he didn''t know how to fulfill it. He wanted to, desperately, but couldn''t. The memory of his past life hovered between them like an ill omen. Try as he might, he couldn''t cross to the other side.


    "I am trying Ma."


    "Well, try harder Darsh. Or the next time I¡¯ll bring the divorce papers myself."


    *****


    He sat alone in the living room for some more time, then got up to go to his room. It was nearly midnight, yet his wife was awake. Waiting for him.


    More than three weeks had passed, yet the room still held the memories. They stared at each other as time unwound itself, slowly, to remind them of that night.


    His heart lurched as he stared at her, finally able to take in the true extent of her devastation. She looked like a wraith - a pale, ghostly imitation of her past self. She met his eyes with her faded, lifeless ones.


    "Is Ma asleep?"


    He blinked in surprise.


    "Yes."


    "Then I''ll go back to my room. Good night."


    For the first time, he noticed her voice. It was weak, so quiet he could hear her defeat in it. It was the sound of loss and her somber acceptance. She had finally given up.


    "You don''t have to go." He pursed his lips, his arms itching to pull her close. She gave a half whimper. A half self-deprecating smile.


    "I have to. I cannot impose on you anymore."


    "You are not imposing. This is your room. You are my wife."


    Her face went blank.


    "Don''t say that again. Please. I am already having a hard time..." Her voice broke as if caught in a sudden gust of emotions. She swayed on her feet like a vine flailing in wind. Before he knew he was next to her, holding her safe to stop her fall.


    He raised a hand to cup her cheek but she didn''t like it. Her body stiffened as if repulsed as it shuddered in response. It shrunk, trying to minimize the contact, she shook her head frantically.


    "Please. I am fine. I just need to ..."


    He tightened his grip until she stopped struggling. Her face burned with shame as she tried to shrug him off, but he kept his hold.


    "I don''t think it works that way, Aditi," he said as his decision was made. It was crystal clear, right there in his mind all along, he wondered why it took him so long to see it. "After what happened last time, after everything that took place in the last two months, I think the only way now is forward. You took your decision, now you have to agree to mine. You cannot go back."


    ¡°There is no way forward for us. This was never meant to be. We were never meant to be¡­¡± her tears fell as her throat clogged again. That made his resolve even harder.


    ¡°It was always meant to be Aditi. Let''s...let''s do one thing." He took a deep breath as he called on his past deeds - any good deeds he had ever done - to inspire him, to bless him, to give him courage.


    "Let''s... start afresh, shall we? With a new story. Suppose I came to Palampur on a normal business trip. Suppose we met at the racecourse and... fell in love. Suppose there were no problems and we got married. And suppose... now it¡¯s time for our happily ever after.¡±


    Yeah¡­this story sounded so sweet and gentle. Their story was so broken that filling those cracks will take a lifetime. This new story had no gaps. It was shiny, sublime, a fairytale of dreams.


    And with that maybe he too would be able to suppose he loved her. The jinx of his past would be lifted and he would be set free.


    His heart raced as she watched him with sad eyes. It was a heap of bullshit for her, he was sure. A large dose of steroids to mask the pain when the doctor couldn¡¯t find the cure. But then she was a good doctor. She knew what was needed to keep things going.


    *****


    Darsh stared out of the window into the dark night. A light rain had started; the air was cool, fragrant. His heart was quiet, listening to the gentle patter of the droplets on his window pane. His wife too listened quietly as she lay on his chest. Her heart beat to the gentle rhythm of the rain, in tandem with his own heart as she stared into the night.


    He was holding her close with his arm wrapped around her waist. She maintained some distance as her hand rested on his chest. A couple of times, she tried to move away and failed. He kept his grip firm.


    "Stay." He had to say it only once and she stopped fidgeting. Nothing more was said. Nothing more was needed. Neither had the courage, nor the will. This truce was sweeter than anything else, a step in the right direction. Like in a game of paper dance, their options were reduced. Moving forward was the only way. Staying together was the only option. Together they will stand and survive. Alone... they did not want to think about that.


    Sometime later her eyes closed. He turned to inhale the scent he had missed for so long. He nuzzled his face onto the top of her head and there it was - a soft, wooly scent of jasmine. Delicate, tired, slightly wilted, yet very much alive.


    "I missed you," he said as he closed his eyes for the night.


    "Me too," came the muffled reply before it went quiet again.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 57. Nerudas Folly

    It became rapidly clear this game of make-believe was not going to work. Real problems need real solutions. Their pain was real, it needed something more substantial than a few shy hugs at night, a little polite conversation at breakfast, and a few stolen glances at her when he thought she wasn''t looking.


    Aditi, on her part, only looked at him when it was absolutely necessary and even then, didn''t meet his eyes. She had retreated into this soft pliable shell that he loved to hug and cuddle but couldn''t break.


    Sad, withdrawn, as if she was alone in her world with her ghosts. He wanted to shake her out of it, but just couldn''t.


    In the daytime, she held on valiantly, going through the motions smiling and living as was expected of her. At night, she came undone. Her pretenses fell apart in front of him. Every rip, every crack in her heart would be clearly visible.


    "I wish you''d tell me what''s the matter," he would pull her close every night and ask. It had become his habit, playing with her locks as he asked her that question. " Are you okay?"


    "I am fine," She would reply with that subdued smile. "Are you?"


    "Yes," he would lie through his teeth before moving inevitably to the next question. "I want you to be happy, Aditi. You know that, right?" This always took a while to answer. She would adjust her position in the crook of his arm, he would feel a slight exhale of breath on his skin.


    "Are you? Happy?"


    "I am if you are."


    "Me too."


    Their eyes would meet as they pondered their words, their situation. It was a deadlock of some sort. His happiness depended on her and hers on him. That meant either both could be happy or none. But he knew the buck stopped at him. He couldn''t give her what she wanted, rather deserved. She seemed to have made peace with it but the more she gave in the more he was irritated with himself.


    Somedays he got up from the bed to pace the room restlessly. Some days he went for cold showers. It helped in more than one way and he hoped his wife didn''t notice. Somedays when nothing worked, he just went out for long a long walk. It cleared his head. When the night was quiet, with not a soul around, he could sit on the front steps and ponder his life.


    Then his wife would come out to call him in.


    "It''s too dark," she would look uneasy as if she expected something to jump at them out of the dark. "It''s not safe."


    Sighing, he would obey her wishes and go in. There was something he couldn''t pinpoint. Something he couldn''t place that kept her listless.


    Every night he held her close, consoling, cajoling, trying to make her feel better. She didn''t talk much but he knew she cherished those moments. Her face would clear of its pallor as she would gaze at him quietly. Her eyes would sparkle with some last embers of hope. He would then peck her forehead and close those eyes with gentle fingers. Too much hope was not good. He could not give her what she wanted. It was not up to him.


    They invariably fell asleep in each other''s arms. One reason was that his mind and body had taken that part of his supposition theory too seriously. He just couldn''t fall asleep without her. The other reason was that he did not want to give her a chance to move away again. In the mornings he invariably found her curled up in the other corner of the bed, facing him yet afar as if she had fallen asleep watching him. He would then take the opportunity to gaze at her to his heart''s content. Her loose locks curled around her sublime face, her long lashes hiding her tired eyes. Her pink lips puckered in sleep, so sweet, so utterly kissable and tempting. He didn''t dare to kiss her though, that was out of the question. The barriers between them were still intact, if anything, their night together had only served to raise them higher. Sighing, he would then shuffle up to pull her close. That would wake her up. She would then use it as an excuse to get up. Her day began from there.


    She kept a full schedule. Mornings with his mother in the kitchen on the pretext of learning to cook. After a quick breakfast, she would go to Gurudwara and then to her clinic. Evenings - again kitchen, then an hour of reading, then sleep. By the time this last part came, it was always nearly eleven pm.


    He waited patiently, utilizing the time to work. His three weeks away had been fruitful. He had made up for the losses so Rajeev did not have an excuse to crib anymore. But still every now and then he asked about the party and Darsh had to find some excuse to put it off. His wife wasn''t herself, he could see that clearly.


    A couple of times he tried to probe. The first time was when she''d sat by the french windows of the dining room with a fat medical journal in her lap.


    "How''s the clinic going Aditi? Is everything okay?"


    She looked surprised, then gave him a small smile. Yes, everything was fine, thank you very much. She was grateful for him for sorting it out with Gaurav.


    "I''m thinking of relieving Ashok," he said pursing his lips, trying to extract a better reaction. "I am here now. I can drop you and pick you up myself."


    "Thanks, but that''s not necessary. I''m sure you are busy."


    "It''s not a big deal", he insisted. "I can come, it was the original plan anyway. And I can use Ashok for something else..."


    "Oh!" Her face fell. "If you need Ashok for some other work then it''s fine. But really you don''t need to bother. I know the area well now. I can go by myself."


    That was not an option, he wanted to snap, but controlled his temper. For the first time, he felt he was missing something. Did she look scared when he talked of removing Ashok?


    Frowning, he followed her upstairs. She was at the dresser getting ready for the night. His heart stilled. Her hair was open and he realized it had grown to reach her hips. The masses of soft silk cascaded her shoulders as she combed it absent-mindedly. Sighing he walked forward and pulled her to face him. If his touch did anything to her she didn''t show it. Her eyes had that sad look, he tried not to dwell on it.


    "Why do I feel you are hiding something?"


    "I am not." She smiled with a closed expression. He pursed his lips as his fingers dug into her waist.


    "Aditi, please. I need to know. I need to know If there''s anything bothering you."


    "Were you very close to her?" The question caught him off guard. What was she asking?


    "To whom?"


    This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    "To... Anu. I saw her name on a notepaper when I was dusting your bookshelf the other day. It fell out of a book." She gave him a curious look. "You wrote her a poem. It was beautiful. It ended in ..."


    I want to do with you what spring does with the cherry trees...


    The line of Pablo Neruda weaved through his mind. His breath knocked out of his chest. Had she seen that piece of paper? He was not a dreamy romantic by any means, he was a builder - bricks and mortar were more like his things. But he had specially looked for a romantic poem for Ananya''s birthday that year. He had found ''Every Day You Play'' - supposedly the most sensuous work of the famous poet and copied it down on that silly pink stationery paper Ananya was so fond of. He was going to present it with his gift that day but before that...


    He looked at his wife ashen-faced. That poem was not for her eyes. He didn''t even know he still had it stuffed in that book.


    You are like nobody since I love you.


    Let me spread you out among yellow garlands.


    Who writes your name in letters of smoke among the stars of the south?


    Oh let me remember you as you were before you existed.


    A long time I have loved the sunned mother-of-pearl of your body.


    I go so far as to think that you own the universe.


    I will bring you happy flowers from the mountains, bluebells,


    dark hazels, and rustic baskets of kisses.


    I want to do with you what spring does with the cherry trees.


    By the time he came to his senses, Aditi was getting ready for her shower.


    "Good choice by the way. I like Neruda too."


    "Aditi, it was my past. It''s all finished long back. And I copied the poem from the internet, I don''t even understand half of it...."


    "Nothing is finished until it''s finished, Darsh." She held herself valiantly upright but her voice was taut. "And it''s okay. It''s your life. You don''t owe me anything. But then also remember that I owe you nothing. So don''t ask me questions I''d never answer."


    She went into the bathroom and shut the door behind her. He stared at it speechless, then sat on his bed with his head in his hands.


    *****


    That night they didn''t hug. She slept on the far side of the bed pulling her blanket to her chin. For the first time, she had her back to him, maybe because she did not want him to see her tears.


    He kept tossing and turning, burning in his own guilt. Getting up, he padded to the bookshelf to tear that pink paper to pieces and threw it in the bin. But the damage was already done.


    Hours passed. The night would have passed too but his phone decided to ring at that moment. Darsh frowned. It was Mohit.


    "Mohit, what''s up? Everything okay?" Darsh said as his wife got up with a start. He gave her a stern look and turned his back on her.


    "Can you please give it to Di?" Mohit sounded haggard. "I need to talk to her urgently and her phone is coming switched off."


    *****


    Mohit needed money. A lot of it. His father had built a large debt that Balwant Sharma flatly refused to pay. Ravi Sharma then wanted to call Aditi but his father forbade him explicitly. As a last resort and to have a one-up on his father, Ravi had decided to marry his daughter off. Mansi Sharma had herself found the suitor. He was an old acquaintance of Mansi who was willing to marry Nehal with a guarantee that he''d pay off all the debts. The only problem was he was fifty years old, old enough to be Nehal''s father. And a childless widower to boot, hence the need for a young wife.


    "Di, please," Mohit begged on speaker phone as Darsh listened with growing consternation. His wife''s face was white as a sheet. "You have to help me. Only you can help Di, please."


    "Yes, of course, Mohit." Aditi stuttered haplessly. "I''ll do something immediately."


    "Send the money Di. Urgently. Mansukh Advani wants the engagement tomorrow and the wedding within the week. The goons were here for money today. Advani won''t release the money until after the engagement."


    "Goons?" Aditi''s shuddered in fear. "Didn''t Zorawar help?"


    "Dadaji won''t let him interfere," Mohit sounded livid. "I think he is actually enjoying Dad''s plight. He''s always wanted to punish Dad."


    Aditi sighed.


    "And Nehal? How is she taking this?"


    "She''s shut herself in her room. Please Di. Do something. I don''t know how Dadaji can be so heartless..."


    Mohit ranted for ten more minutes before Darsh cut the call. His wife stood shaking, then looked at him unsurely.


    *****


    Ten minutes later, Darsh had transferred two crores from his personal account to Ravi Sharma. A call went to Mansukh Advani advising him to forget about the marriage. He also called up Ravi Sharma to give him a piece of his mind. Aditi listened in surprise as her husband delivered a beautiful combination of threats disguised as genuine advice. There was a warning not to expect any more money and a threat to get him blacklisted from every racecourse in the country. Imagine the shame, imagine the scandal. No one would marry Nehal then knowing she was the daughter of a penniless gambler. Her uncle was suitably chastised, ashamed even to receive such a beating from a man half his age.


    The next call was to her Dadaji filling him in with the details. To her surprise, Dadaji was irritated. Darsh had no need to bail out Ravi or his daughter, he said adamantly. It was time he learned a lesson.


    The weirdness of the situation was too much to handle. Aditi''s head hurt just thinking about how her uncle and grandfather could go to such lengths when Darsh handed her a glass of water. She accepted it gratefully as she finally gave a sigh of relief.


    "Thanks for this. I don''t know what I''d have done. I don''t even know my online banking passwords, I hardly use them. It would have been impossible to transfer that money in time."


    "Save it, Aditi." He waved a hand, utterly disinterested in her apologies. It was past one PM, yet it didn''t look like sleep was on his mind. "The only thing I want to know is - why is your phone always switched off?"


    She took her time to answer as she scooted herself back to the wall. Hunching her knees to her chest she adjusted her dress as her husband watched her antics and got impatient by the second.


    "It''s not always switched off. I just forget to charge it sometimes." Finally, she answered after she''d taken her own sweet time. His jaw twitched.


    "You gave the same excuse to Ma two days ago, Aditi. And to Ashok yesterday when he tried to call you. What''s going on?"


    She chewed her lips nervously. Her phone was turned off because that was the only way to avoid those insidious texts. Day by day they had gotten sinister, sometimes she felt the man was standing right next to her, observing her every move. The thought gave her jitters, her hands shook as she examined patients. A few of them even commented - she didn''t look well, maybe she needed some rest?


    Blocking the numbers didn''t work, they always found her out. As a last resort, she decided to turn the phone off. Nobody called her as long as she called them first. And anyways it was only Sonal and Dadaji and now sometimes Karuna Ma.


    She watched as her husband grabbed her phone from her purse and turned it on. It came on obediently, it was charged after all. Irritated, he grabbed her hand to press her sweaty thumb on it to unlock it. A stack of texts was already waiting for her. His face went ashen as he read through them.


    "Since when is this going on?" He asked as she watched him quietly. He looked angry, frustrated, and even a little scared.


    "I asked Aditi, since when is this going on? Why didn''t you tell me? We live together for God''s sake, I have Ashok to help you during the day. One word would have sufficed..."


    "You didn''t pick up my call." He stared at her dumbfounded. She pinched her lips defiantly. Yes, he didn''t pick it. So she didn''t tell him. Simple as that. Childish though it sounded, especially now, she would do it again without a second thought. Never before had anyone cut her call. Never. ever. Before. He was the first man ever to ignore her like that. So he deserved the punishment.


    Moreover, she couldn''t forget the pink paper. The cherry trees, the blossoms, the tender past that he had kept hidden. It burned her heart like hot coals even to think about it. Spring was now officially her most hated season and pink was officially the most hated color.


    He shook his head tiredly as he gave her an exasperated look. She tossed her head back nonchalantly. If he could keep secrets, she could too. If he would not open up his heart, she would close hers.


    "So what now?"


    "Now you handle it," came his scathing reply. "I am not getting into this. You won''t tell me anything anyway - not about that night, not about Vicki. Not about anything else. So it''s your headache."


    What? She frowned dumb-faced. The gall of him. How dare he defy her again!


    "Fine. I''ll tell Uncle Shekhawat then. I don''t need your help."


    "Oh really! Then why haven''t you told him already?" He mocked, curling a lip. She fell silent. The reason was simple. Uncle Shekhawat would ask questions. Who was it, why was it, how did it happen. Why she, why he, etc, etc, etc. He would find the culprit, there was no doubt about that. But then the secret won''t be a secret anymore. The more people knew about it, the more will know. And now she didn''t just have her Dadaji to consider. She had to think about Karuna Ma and her husband''s reputation too.


    She pinched her lips as her nostrils quivered. He threw his hands in the air and resumed his pacing.


    Ten minutes later, he''d reached his decision. He gave her a tranquilizer and tucked her in before getting himself ready.


    "Where are you going?"


    "To Sam," he said coldly and she swallowed a lump. "Stubborn as you are, Aditi, and unable as I am to wheedle the truth out of you, be assured that I''ll know it by tomorrow. So sleep now, and I''ll see you in the morning."


    ***** *****

 Chapter 58. The Secret of That Night

    Sector 5, Nehru Marg, Shiv-Shakti Apartment. Flat 5 had a dim light on. Samuel Fernandez lived here with his aged parents. His father was a retired bank clerk, and his mother - a housewife. There was an elder sister too but Darsh didn''t know much about her.


    What he knew was that someone was texting his wife. Someone from her past who was either close to her or wanted to get close. They had some information that they wanted to leverage. To what end, he did not know but he intended to find out. He needed to act fast, and what better place to start than this boy who already had a lot to explain?


    He watched as Sam climbed down the stairs, one step by one, leaning on his crutches. He was out of plaster but the limp was clearly visible.


    "Good to see you recovering," Darsh commented as the boy hobbled closer. "I take it you know why I am here?"


    "Yes." Sam gave a nervous nod, then met his eyes. "I...knew you would come one day. But you are late." A moment passed in silence. Darsh bristled.


    "Care to elaborate?"


    "I mean your culprits are gone. They left Delhi the day you got married."


    *****


    The tranquilizer worked. Well... sort of. Her head felt heavy but sleep would not come. The room was hot, her pulse rushed erratically as she sat up on the bed wiping her face.


    It was past two in the morning. By now Sam would have started talking. Everything would come out, everything, right from the first moment she set her eyes on them. Or rather they set their eyes on her as she finished the race that morning and plodded with Aron back to the enclosure.


    She still remembered that day. It was beautiful, so clear and bright with a cool spring breeze weaving through the woods. If someone had told her that day that it was the start of her doom, she would have laughed them away.


    "Congratulations, Di. That was an amazing win!" Balbir had greeted her as he walked Grandpa Raisingh''s mare to the stalls. She smiled at him and got off Aron to give him a much-deserved nuzzle when there was a clearing of a throat from behind.


    "Indeed it was spectacular, Ms. Sharma. But then it''s to be expected from a magnificent rider such as you." She turned to find a group of young men standing a few feet away. Four of them precisely, near Mohit''s age if she was correct. Their leader came forward to shake her hand and the look on his face told her he was no Mohit. This was a man - a properly grown, experienced man. His face broke into an oily leer as his eyes ran down her body. A weird unease ran down her spine.


    "Thanks, but I''m sorry," she raised her hand covered with Aron''s dribble to indicate it would not be a pleasant handshake. To her surprise, he didn''t budge. He shook her hand anyway, for slightly longer than necessary, his grip slightly tighter than she was accustomed to.


    "I wonder if you would consider giving riding lessons to... my friend here." He pulled forward one of his friends who looked alarmed.


    "Ajay... please. I don''t want to. I don''t like horses..."


    "All the more reason for you to get the lessons, Vicki." Ajay slapped his shoulder and turned to her. "So what do you say, Ms. Sharma? It would be great to do a few lessons with you. And that would give us an opportunity to get better acquainted."


    She refused politely and left there as fast as she could. Something was off with that man. The way he controlled his friend - Vicki, and he did look like Mohit - told her it was better to stay away.


    But the next day Vicki himself approached her. This time he was accompanied by Sam who looked more like a friend and less like an overgrown bully.


    "Please. It would be a great help. You see, I have been wanting to learn to ride, my older brother is a pro. But for some reason, I can''t even get in the saddle. I am just too scared." Vicki pleaded and she found herself agreeing. There was something endearing about this boy. He looked genuine, a little shy yet eager to learn. And the amount he offered would be a good addition to her hospital fund.


    The lessons resumed and she soon relaxed. It was only Sam and Vicki who attended lessons while the other two preferred to watch from a distance. They laughed and mocked when the boys made mistakes. Aditi was irritated. If they thought it was a cool way to impress her, they were sorely mistaken.


    "Why do you let him bully you?" She had asked Vicki once during one of the lessons. Ajay was sitting in the viewing gallery laughing his head off as Vicki struggled to control his horse.


    "Oh..it''s just his habit," Vicki waved it away. "He is my childhood friend. He is not that bad."


    She had shrugged and put it off her mind. Thinking back now, she knew it was a big mistake to ignore her intuition. She should have paid heed. She should have listened to the whispers of fate warning her off.


    *****


    He was late. Maybe by three months. He should have been here the night he realized his wife''s innocence. He should have been here the day he had planned his course and offered Balwant Sharma his business proposal.


    A lot had happened since then. Time had taken its own course. He had lost his opportunity to act and now he was reduced to being a mere spectator.


    "Please, Sam," Darsh couldn''t believe he was begging. "No more games. I want the truth - what happened that night, how it happened, why did you and Vicki not do anything to stop it..." He rambled on haphazardly as his head started pounding. Sam''s words kept pummeling his brain - He was late. His culprits were gone.


    "That night...we climbed up the mountain. The mood was somber. Ajay was agitated, frustrated at losing his chance with Aditi. He had already finished half a bottle. Paddy kept teasing him, adding fuel to the fire."


    This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    "We reached early and set the camp. Ajay kept drinking, finding faults, and snapping at us at every opportunity. Paddy too joined him and I and Vicki ended up doing all the work."


    Darsh listened as if it was a story with some new characters. The Ajay he knew did not drink. He was a sober boy. Yes, a little boisterous and a fitness freak too, but still very much sober.


    Paddy - Darsh realized he didn''t know much about him. He had joined the group sometime in their second year in college. The son of a powerful local corporator, Paddy was obviously more ''worldly'', and knew a lot of things, probably having been there, done that. Darsh hadn''t paid much attention. He was busy in his own life - work, work, and more work. With Ananya gone, he had a big void to fill. Come to think of it now, he realized he had missed a vital part of his brother''s life. Was that when the equation began to change?


    "We set the camp early and started for the sunset point. That was when we saw Aditi. She was looking after the horses while her friends walked ahead to watch the sunset."


    *****


    A twig cracked behind her and she turned to find Ajay a few feet away. His face was flushed, eyes red. Aditi put it down to the red gold of the sinking sun.


    "Hi Aditi," he said after spending the first few seconds roving his eyes up and down her. She felt her hackles rising.


    "You! What are you doing here? I thought your holiday was only for two weeks?"


    "Tonight is the last." He kept staring. "We came here camping. And look at our luck - here we meet again." He kept staring and her blood boiled. Of all the people in the world, she had to meet this lech.


    "Okay then. Have a nice time. I have to go now, my friends are waiting..." she turned to leave when shot forward and grabbed her hand. It was then that she smelt the whiff of liquor. Disgusted, she tried to shirk him away but he didn''t move an inch.


    "Listen Aditi. It''s my last night here. We may not meet again. Why not spend some time together so we remember each other forever?" She stared at him in confusion.


    "What do you mean?"


    "You know what I mean Aditi. You have known it since the day we met. Please. No one will know. I won''t tell anyone. And we''ll be gone tomorrow. Just a night Aditi, just a few hours. A couple would suffice..."


    She didn''t know when her hand landed on his face. He stumbled backward in surprise, nearly hitting a tree.


    "Get lost, Ajay. And leave as soon as possible if you know what''s best for you."


    She returned to her friends in a huff without sparing him another glance. Her friends didn''t notice, probably they too put her red face to the sinking sun. It was now glorious orangey-red, as if molten gold flowed from it, submerging the mountains in its lustrous haze. She began to settle but ten minutes later Vicki approached.


    This time all her friends witnessed it.


    "Aditi, please. Ajay loves you. He''d been in love right from the day he met you. Please at least give him a chance. At least consider his proposal..."


    She listened to him as her face drained. She had considered him a friend. A close friend, nearly her brother same as Mohit.


    "Do you even know what he is asking?"


    "Whatever it is, just do it Aditi. Please. Or..or he would..." He looked pathetic as he blabbered shame-faced. Bile rose to her throat as her respect for him plummeted to rock bottom.


    "Just leave Vicki. Just leave and don''t show me your face again."


    *****


    Sam sighed as Darsh looked aghast.


    "So Vicki proposed her on behalf of Ajay? And that was the ''confrontation'' you told me about?"


    "Yes. Vicki begged her but she was furious. She told him to get lost and decided to leave with her friends. Vicki returned with the news and that made it all even worse. Ajay looked craven as if something snapped inside him."


    "That was when he hit me first. He kicked me in the shin and I fell to the ground. Vicki tried to interfere but Ajay had lost it completely. He pushed Vicki and he fell, hitting his head on a rock. For the next five minutes, he stayed disoriented. I scrambled up to help but Ajay and Paddy didn''t let me. Sometime later when Vicki was awake, they started beating me again. They would only stop when Aditi came. Or they would continue until...until our holiday was truly over."


    "I don''t believe this. Ajay would never do this. He can''t be this insane..."


    "He was drunk. Angry. Frustrated. Paddy too egged him on. They wanted to teach her a lesson. They both were beyond reasoning."


    Teach her a lesson. Yes, that sounded familiar. He too had wanted to do just that, after believing the garbage these ''boys'' served him that night in the hospital. How gullible he was, how blissfully out of touch. No wonder these boys had taken him for a ride. He pressed his lips and gulped down the acid rising to his throat.


    "So...Vicki called Aalok''s phone?"


    "Yes. He said I was injured and needed urgent help, which was true. She came, as he knew she would."


    The rest he knew. She had struggled, screamed, begged, and beseeched. But no one listened. No one came to help her in that dark forest. The sun had set long ago and there was no one around for miles. Even the animals had decided to stay hidden on that vicious black night.


    "They...they silenced her by shoving a bin bag over her head. When she still struggled, Paddy used a broken bottle to paralyze her completely. After that, there was no sound. She went sort of...limp. They dragged her to their tent and..."


    Darsh opened the car door and staggered out to puke on the pavement. In the silence of the dark night, his retching sounded like the last scuffle of a dying man. He stood on the cold pavement catching his breath, clearing his face, wiping the tears and muck. Five minutes later when he got back in he had barely any strength left.


    "I don''t know what happened after that. Both I and Vicki were nearly passed out. A few hours later we were woken up by shouts in the woods. The goons started thrashing us and we scrambled to get away."


    It was difficult to evade their pursuers. The woods were dark, deep, and deadly. But once their survival instinct kicked in, no hurdle was great enough to stop them. They managed to reach the fork where their car was parked. Somehow they managed to escape, only to go over a sharp edge.


    The rest was history. They returned to Delhi in a rented car. Paddy had made a call and it came to pick them up. He then asked the driver to scamper off as he took the wheel himself. Vicki was bleeding and they made a detour to the village clinic to sort him out. But the damage was severe. The doctor asked them not to waste time and get him to a hospital.


    There was a hospital in Rajpur but Paddy and Ajay decided not to go there. Staying here was not an option, the goons might come back. And going back to Delhi meant going back to Darsh Rathore who would skin them alive. They needed a plan. An excuse to cover it all and put the blame on someone else.


    That''s when the plan formed.


    "Let''s just say it was Vicki. He fell in love. He confronted her and raped her when she rejected him. That way Darsh won''t be able to point fingers at us." Ajay threw them a calculating look. "And I don''t think Vicki would survive to tell the truth. So we are safe."


    "But that''s a lie." Sam protested unable to hold his tears. "Why not just say we got into an accident on our way back? Why drag that poor girl into this, have you not already punished her enough?"


    "She is no poor girl," Ajay snapped. "That bitch is too rich, too arrogant for her own good. And what I did to her was just her punishment for rejecting me. This one is to send those goons after us. Letting Darsh Rathore go after her would be a fitting answer. The bastard dog would do a better job than those goons she sent after us."


    The car was silent as they contemplated this. ''Letting Darsh Rathore go after the girl'' had many implications. He might kill her, he might maim her. He would not rape her, he was too honorable for that, but he would do much worse to avenge his brother.


    "And what if... he falls for her?" Sam voiced his doubt. "What if she tells him the truth?"


    "That will never happen," Ajay said shrewdly. "He is still hung up on Ananya. And our princess is too proud to share her shame so easily."


    ***** *****

 Chapter 59. Never have I ever...!!

    "And what if... he falls for her? What if she tells him the truth?"


    "That will never happen. He is still hung up on Ananya. And our princess is too proud to share her shame so easily."


    Darsh felt as if a bucketful of ice-cold water was poured over his head. That one sentence was enough to shatter all his misconceptions. He had thought Ananya was a secret only a few people knew, but apparently, he was wrong. The world was a smaller place than he thought, and full of smaller people, meaner and more vicious than he ever knew.


    "Mr. Parmar - Ajay''s father - met with Ananya''s father a few months ago. They got talking, and that''s when this all came out." The discussion had taken them to common acquaintances and then to Darsh Rathore. KD Sahay had been only too delighted to recount how he had snubbed Darsh and saved his precious daughter in the nick of time.


    "You can''t be too careful," he had told Mr. Parmar sagely. "These scumbags are always looking to trap rich girls from good families. Luckily Ananya saw sense and followed my advice. Or else..."


    Darsh felt his bile rising again. How well they knew him, both Ajay and KD Sahay. And here he thought nobody knew the real him. How deluded he was, lost in his own world, wallowing in self-pity and self-hatred. How little had he looked outside, how little he knew about the people he thought he knew so well.


    But something still did not add up. There was a missing piece, but he didn''t know what. The picture was clear, yet it didn''t make sense. He had to ask Sam that one, last question.


    "You still haven''t told me everything Sam" he narrowed his eyes and Sam pursed his lips. "Why did you keep it for so long? Why didn''t you tell me that day when I called from Palampur? And I still can''t believe Vicki will go to Aditi with that ghastly proposal. He will never do it. He will never give in to such bullying..."


    "Well, that just shows how little you knew your own brother, doesn''t it?" Sam snapped, and for the first time Darsh noticed the boy''s belligerent tone. His face was ashen, he was holding back his tears. "You are here now because now you want to know the truth. But where were you when Vicki needed you? You were busy in your own little world, you never spared him a thought. He was lonely. If you had spared him some time, maybe he would be more open to you."


    What was he going on about? Darsh was puzzled. There was truth in what Sam said but why did he look so...affected?


    "Sam, please. This is the last time I am here and this is the last time I''ll ask you. For Vicki''s sake, just tell me the truth. I know you cared for him. I know you were best friends..."


    "He is my best friend," Sam screeched as if a lid had popped a bottle. "Not just a friend but much more than that. We were close, closer than you think. And that''s why Vicki is in this state today."


    *****


    Darsh stared as the boy blabbered on, unable to control what he had kept buried in him for so long. It came out bursting like a volcano, bringing forth the truth that he should have seen long ago.


    "Vicki was shy, introverted. He needed you but you were busy in your own world. He became more and more lonely. That''s when we came close. It was like two kindred souls had found each other."


    "But Ajay came to know and so did Paddy. They used to jeer at us and have fun at our expense. It was still okay, there were other couples in college and we didn''t think much of it. But that night Ajay lost it completely."


    "He said he would expose us. My parents would die of shame, my sister will never marry. And you...what would you, Darsh Rathore, the most desirable and masculine man in Delhi will do when he found his brother was gay?"


    "He told Vicki you would be ashamed of Vicki. That we should keep it from you. Vicki was not even your real brother, and you had your own problems to handle. You wouldn''t think twice before throwing him out of the house."


    "That''s bullshit! I would never..." Darsh rubbed his face as the burden in his heart increased a thousand times. It was a slap on his face as he realized his self-indulgence had cost him his brother.


    "Well, too late now. Whatever is done is done." Sam kicked the door open and got out, then turned to give him an accusing look. "I hope at least now you''ll do the right thing. I don''t know why you married Aditi when you are still in love with Ananya. Ajay said you''d do anything for money." He looked disgusted and Darsh didn''t know where to hide his face. For this boy of twenty-one to give him lessons in decency was too much to handle.


    "Vicki loved Aditi like a sister. If he wakes one day and finds what you have done to her, he would rather be dead than alive."


    *****


    Darsh didn''t go home immediately. For some time he wandered on empty streets gathering his thoughts. It proved useless. His head hurt, and his stomach still felt queasy. It was futile to look for peace when his heart was somewhere else.


    It was nearly five in the morning when he reached home. As expected, his wife stood on the steps waiting for him. Her fists were clenched, and her face was white. She looked like a student who''d worked hard for an exam and now waiting for their final result. Or like a criminal, waiting for the juries to announce their verdict; to give their judgment for a crime they did not commit.


    Darsh shook his head. He was no one to judge her. He had made that mistake before and paid for it dearly.


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    Aditi came close, then raised a hand to wipe the corner of his mouth - she must have found some leftover muck. Her brows furrowed as she smelt his puke and took in his grimy shirt. Sighing she held his hand to lead him in.


    *****


    She didn''t ask questions. She stood him in the shower and removed his shirt to clean him. He kept watching as her fingers moved gently, with precision, taking care not to touch his bare skin.


    Here they were after two months of marriage. So close yet so far apart. So...so entangled yet detached. Life without each other was impossible. Yet together they were like cogs of a broken wheel. Ajay was so right. Living with him was the best punishment for her. He would never love her and neither would he let her go. He would keep he in his home, in his room but wouldn''t give her a place in his heart. She would be forever an outsider, a woman he married out of greed, guilt, and need. Now the greed was gone, only the guilt remained. As did the need - the galling, crippling, desperate need to be with her.


    His body flared at just the thought of it. His eyes descended to her lips - her luscious, pink yet faded lips. One kiss would restore their color, one kiss would bring the sparkle back to those dead eyes. But he didn''t dare it. He had no strength left to play with her emotions any longer.


    She cleaned him quietly, her calm gaze never once straying to his questioning one. Why was she still here with him, he did not know. How she had managed to fall for him even after such an ordeal? She was barely two weeks into it when he had landed in Palampur, burning with the hot fires of his misplaced revenge.


    It just showed the strength of her soul, the purity of her heart. Her ability to love came from there. Maybe that was why he had failed to love her. He had never possessed the strength - the honesty and innocence that could mend a broken soul and give it the strength to move on.


    "I have been an asshole, haven''t I?" He asked as she turned the shower off and grabbed a towel to dry him off. She didn''t answer. She didn''t need to answer what was obvious.


    "Will you ever forgive me?"


    That too didn''t warrant an answer. She had forgiven him the day she tore off his annulment. Only he had been too arrogant to realize his good fortune and gone on to squander it at the first chance.


    She finished drying his hair, then left him to finish the job. A while later she returned with a glass of warm milk. He drank it obediently, then stared at her before pulling her close to sleep. Whether she liked it or not, he needed it desperately. His eyes soon became heavy as he snuggled into her bosom like a child seeking comfort. She hugged him close, stroking him, running her gentle fingers through his hair. Soon his pounding stopped as he drifted away blissfully.


    *****


    He woke up to find the sun shining brightly. It was well past noon. An aroma of his Ma''s spices wafted into his bedroom and he was reminded of his ravenous hunger. But ten minutes later when he came down his Ma was nowhere to be seen. It was his wife in the kitchen, cooking him lunch.


    "Do you want to go see Vicki?" Aditi placed a plate in front of him and asked.


    Ravenous, he started gobbling, then gave a stupid nod. Yes. It was long overdue. A visit to his brother to spend some quality time was what he needed so badly.


    *****


    An hour later they arrived at Dr. Chatterjee''s nursing home. For the first time in the past three months, Darsh touched his brother. Gently he lifted Vicki''s lifeless hand to place in his own. His other hand ran through Vicki''s hair but his brother remained motionless.


    Silently he apologized to Vicki for not being there for him. And believing in the lies of his so-called friends despite his better judgment. He had been remiss in his duties - towards his brother, towards his wife. Towards the very small number of people who actually cared for him and did not wish him dead.


    "I am sorry for this," Aditi''s melodic voice soothed him like cool rain. "It was not his fault. He didn''t have to suffer, but I wasn''t thinking straight that night. I just told Zorawar to go after them. If I had been specific about Ajay and Paddy, maybe Vicki would not have suffered this much."


    He waved her away. It was not her fault. He had failed his brother and he had failed his wife. His own life was messed up and along with it, he had messed up theirs. Ananya was long gone, yet he had kept her shadow alive. Like an undead corpse, he had allowed her to haunt his present. He suffered and he subjected his wife to the same suffering. His brother''s life too was now nearly forfeit, he too was a casualty of those six years of mourning. Six years was a long time, he realized now that he thought of it, too long to pine after someone who had forgotten all about him and got on with her life happily.


    They came home and he took his wife''s hand to hold her close. She met his eyes calmly. She had nothing to hide now. Everything was bare, literally. All her secrets were out and her eyes were again clear, shining with honesty.


    Sighing, he cupped her cheek. "Is it... too late to rectify my mistakes?"


    Her eyes dimmed. "I don''t want pity."


    "I am not offering pity. I am offering... respect. " He lowered his eyes. He still could not utter the word ''love''. Now he understood why his supposition theory hadn''t worked. He had never meant it to work. He had held back his heart. And she knew it, that was why they were here in the first place.


    "Respect? Can you not do better than that?"


    "I am trying. It will take time..."


    She swallowed a lump and looked away. He could hear her unsaid words - How long will he take? Will it be possible in this lifetime? If she could love him despite his sins, why couldn''t he love her when she was not to blame for hers?


    "I don''t want to lie to you Aditi," he bit out an honest reply. "You deserve better. All I can say is - I need you. I need you like one needs food, water, and air. I can''t live without you and that had been the case ever since I met you." Like food, water and air, yes, that was it. You don''t love those basic necessities yet you need them to stay alive. He was surprised at himself. For the past six years, he had got on with life, living like a monk yet trudging on nonetheless. But this time he knew it was different. He won''t survive without her, he wouldn''t want to.


    *****


    Aditi stared at him. What he was saying sounded like love yet he insisted it was not. Either he was confused or she was. But at this moment she was too tired to find out.


    She leaned into his touch and closed her eyes. Whether he loved her or not, did not matter. All that mattered was that she loved him. She needed him like food, water, and air. Like the breath in her lungs, like the beat of her heart. Like the very blood flowing in her veins. She wouldn''t survive without him. She wouldn''t want to.


    The kiss that followed was slow. Like a sweet venom, it spread through their bodies - lulling, beguiling, paralyzing their brains. All she was aware of was the heat exploding in her core and melting her heart. And all he had done so far was to hold her in that gentle embrace.


    Breathless, she opened her eyes to stare into his fathomless ones. How mysterious they were, even after all these days she had been unable to gauge their depths. Maybe this was her destiny to watch from above and wonder how it would be to sink into them. How it would be when he actually opened his heart and let her in.


    "Darsh...I ...I..." I need you - that was what she wanted to say but she could not utter it. Instead, she said what was easier for her to say. "I love you. I...love you, I love you."


    "I don''t Aditi. I am sorry. And so you have to leave."


    ***** *****

 Chapter 60. A Hard Reset For A New Beginning

    It was for the best. It was better to step away and let her get on with her life. With him, she was doomed. Outside, she will at least be able to breathe freely.


    Darsh paced frantically with each step, his resolve growing harder. He should have done this long ago. He should have gone with the annulment. To hell with her decision, to hell with her... whim. It was stupid to tear off that paper, a sheer act of impulsiveness that his wife was famous for. But they still had time to rectify that mistake.


    ¡°You are listening to me, right?¡± He glared at her accusingly. ¡°You need to move on. You deserve better. There are other men in the world. Gaurav Dhaliwal is an excellent candidate, but there are many more who would be eager to fill in the shoes.¡±


    Sure, it sounded like a perfect solution. All his plans were always perfect. Yes, they went somewhat awry whenever they involved his wife, but this time he was sure he¡¯d got everything right. All he had to do was remove himself from the equation. Once his jinx was removed, her life would be set.


    Shaking his head, he resumed his belligerent pacing.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get another copy of the annulment for you to sign today. Our arrangement will remain the same. I¡¯ll take care of the money matters as best I can and we¡¯ll pretend in front of Dadaji all is well.¡± He waited for her reaction, but she didn¡¯t even bat an eye. For the past hour, she was sitting there like a statue. He could as well be barking at a wall. Which was just as well - they tended to waste too much time arguing, and now was the time for action.


    His brain whirred as if in fifth gear. It had been ages since he made a new plan. A perfect new plan that delivered perfect results. This was an ideal opportunity to get him going.


    ¡°Ajay and Paddy have scuppered off. Ajay¡¯s in the US for an MBA. Paddy is gone for Navy training,¡± he followed this with a disgusted snort, ¡°but I¡¯ll make sure they pay for their sins.¡±


    His wife shifted a little, but he wasn¡¯t looking. He was in the zone now. In the perfect zone, to restore the status quo. He had to hit a reset button, go back to where it started and erase these past four months. It was the only way to fix things.


    ¡°That leaves only one candidate for our stalker. We both know who he is. I am going to see him today...¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not necessary.¡± In the end, Aditi got up to give him a calm look. She looked much collected; she, too, seemed to have made her decision. ¡°Thank you for your help, but I¡¯ll take over from here. And leave Ajay and Paddy to me. They are my culprits, not yours.¡±


    *****


    The rest of the day, Aditi spent packing. It was tedious to do the to-and-fro between his room and the guest room. Some of her stuff was downstairs, some upstairs. She had never settled, really. She had never found her place in this house.


    She gathered her belongings and called for a taxi. Then left for Sonal¡¯s flat. Darsh watched from his favorite spot on the steps, his one hand as usual stuffed in his trouser pocket. Clutched in his other hand was the annulment that they both had signed.


    ¡°I am sorry for this.¡± He said again as she climbed the steps down for one last time. ¡°It didn¡¯t have to be this way, but I know this is for the best.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± She gave a smile that made him wince. For the last time, she cast her eyes around - on the little house, on the small garden, on the man staring at her with shuttered eyes. In the corner, in a rubbish bin where she had thrown her broken dreams. She glanced at them and got into the car to give him one last look.


    ¡°This is it then. All the best, and have a good life.¡±


    *****


    ¡°The bastard! I knew something like this will happen. I knew he was always after your money!¡± Sonal screeched, and Aditi looked up from her laptop.


    ¡°Don¡¯t call him that, Sonal. He did what he thought was right.¡±


    ¡°Right, my foot!¡± Sonal gave her an exasperated look. ¡°How are you so calm, Aditi? Are you not angry? Are you not..sad? Why are you so, so...¡± She pursed her lips, trying to find the right word. Aditi exhaled. She herself did not know why she was like this. There were no tears, no rage, no bitter feelings. Her heart was empty, devoid of any emotions. Her mind was numb and her brain was on autopilot. It was a surreal state, but at least she was functioning. And right now, she was grateful for it.


    ¡°I wish I could kill that bast...¡±


    ¡°Please Sonal, for the last time, no cursing.¡± Aditi got up and gave her friend a hug. Sonal was close to breaking down. ¡°Listen, how about we go out? In fact, I have someone to meet. Would you like to come?¡±


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    *****


    It was the second time in two days that Aditi visited Dr. Arindam Chatterjee¡¯s nursing home. The last time she was on the first floor to see Vicki. This time, she took the elevator to the fourth floor. That was where Vivaan was, in room number seven. It had taken her husband less than an hour to trace him. It was from here that Vivaan had spied her when she¡¯d come here to admit Vicki for the first time. She did not know Grandpa Raisingh too had chosen the same nursing home for him.


    Come to think of it now, it should have been obvious. She should have thought of herself, if not for the other matters consuming her mind.


    She asked Sonal to wait outside and entered. Vivaan was sitting on the bed, resting against a pillow. In his hands was his phone, and he was busy typing furiously. No wonder her phone hadn¡¯t stopped beeping that day.


    ¡°Hi, Vivaan.¡± Aditi entered, placing the flowers and fruit basket she¡¯d carried on the side table. ¡°How are you?¡°


    ¡°You! How did you...¡±


    ¡°My husband is quite resourceful.¡± She smiled. His face turned puce.


    ¡°Really? Then where is he now? Left you alone in a wolf¡¯s den, has he?¡±


    ¡°A wolf that is paralyzed,¡± she commented calmly. ¡°And I paralyzed it myself. So I have nothing to fear.¡±


    His eyes turned to slits as his chest heaved rapidly. For a moment, both were on that old bridge, on the fated night of her engagement.


    ¡°Then why are you here now? To gloat on my condition?¡±


    ¡°I am here to wish you well.¡± Her voice was calm. Vivaan snorted.


    ¡°Really...Aditi. And why is that? You talk as if you are...¡± He narrowed his eyes. ¡°Are you going somewhere?¡± He looked around as realization dawned on his face. There came his maniacal laugh that Aditi was so used to. Luckily, it did not have the same effect on her anymore.


    He laughed and laughed until tears rolled from his eyes.


    ¡°The bastard left you, didn¡¯t he? I told you not to trust him. I told you, but you didn¡¯t listen.¡± He wiped his face with the edge of his shawl. ¡°You would have done better with me, Aditi. We would have been so happy.¡±


    ¡°We would never have been happy, Vivaan. One can only be happy with a person who loves them.¡±


    Silence stretched as their eyes met. A lot was conveyed. That she didn¡¯t love him, had never done. That Darsh didn¡¯t love her, had never loved her. And that Vivaan too didn¡¯t love her in the real sense, or he would not have resorted to those texts.


    He blinked and looked away. She smiled and took out the tiffin box she had packed for him.


    ¡°What is this?¡±


    ¡°Kheer. And okra fry. It¡¯s not how Nehal makes it, but I have tried my best.¡±


    ¡°I never loved Nehal.¡± His tone was belligerent.


    ¡°I know. But she loved you truly.¡±


    ¡°If you are here on behalf of her...¡±


    ¡°I am not here on behalf of anyone, Vivaan. I am here to see my childhood friend, who once used to pull my hair, and I pushed him into the swimming pool; who once tried to hurt me and I hurt him back. Now the scores are settled. I want to go back to where we were before. That is - if you are willing to let go.¡±


    There. She had said her piece. They talked some more. She inquired about his treatment and offered the help of Sonal¡¯s dad. Towards the end, he went quieter - to the point that he just sat with his eyes closed. She patted his hand and got up.


    ¡°Keep in touch, Vivaan. I¡¯d like to know how my friend is faring.¡±


    *****


    ¡°That was nice of you,¡± Sonal passed a dry remark as they took a cab back to her flat. ¡°Wasn¡¯t he also the one who killed butterflies to scare you?¡±


    ¡°He was.¡± Aditi shook her head, staring out of the window. ¡°But I want to forget the bad parts.¡±


    ¡°Amazing.¡± Sonal was her sarcastic best. ¡°So what next now? Going back to Palampur to sign everything to your uncle? Your Dadaji¡¯s property is in Darsh¡¯s clutches. Why not donate your mother¡¯s too and be done with it?¡±


    That wasn¡¯t a bad idea, Aditi mused. She did need to go to Palampur to see her Dadaji. She might as well give a lump sum to her uncle to settle him for the next few months. Her husband...err, her ex-husband would not entertain his habits, nor would her Dadaji. She also needed to see someone else. That was the next task on her list.


    ¡°Yes, I am going to Palampur but just for a quick day trip. It¡¯ll be good to be back...and I¡¯ll also get to see Aron.¡±


    *****


    The next day she was in Palampur sitting at the bedside of her Dadaji. She couldn¡¯t believe how much he had diminished in the last two months. His fingers shook, and he could hardly feed himself. He used it as an excuse to refuse to sign cheques for her uncle, but she knew it was serious.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. It¡¯s just life.¡± He smiled and caressed her face. Her eyes filled as she clutched his shaking hand in hers.


    ¡°Stop fighting with Chachu, Dadaji. Just let him do what he wants. You know he loves you.¡±


    ¡°Too late for that,¡± Balwant smiled. ¡°Fighting with Ravi is what keeps me alive.¡±


    ¡°By the way, where is your husband?¡± Balwant frowned. ¡°Why isn¡¯t he too near my sickbed? You haven¡¯t fought with him, right?¡±


    She gave a coy smile. ¡°He is busy, Dadu. And yes, we did have a little fight, but we¡¯ll sort it out.¡±


    ¡°Good girl.¡± Balwant smiled contentedly, then dozed off. Aditi tucked him in, then got up to meet the others.


    *****


    It took her ten minutes to see the others. Saying hello and signing a cheque took that long. Mohit was away on a site, so she couldn¡¯t see him. She told Nehal of her visit to Vivaan, but the girl was quiet. She looked subdued, but her face did not have that longing pain anymore. Aditi was relieved. Maybe Nehal was finally over him. The girl needed to move on. Everyone needed to move on. Staying in the past, clutching to old shadows, never did anyone any good.


    Next on her list was Aron. Here she spent a long time. He too had missed her. The stables also brought her some other memories - of a certain someone who¡¯d promised her lifelong happiness. She smiled fondly as she remembered it all. It felt like a child¡¯s play, like little children playing house and going their separate ways when it was home time. Now the play was over and the actors had dispersed. And the stage was left empty. Bared to the bones.


    *****


    It was late afternoon when she knocked on Kanta Chachi¡¯s door. Chachi was obviously overjoyed but narrowed her eyes the moment she took in her state.


    ¡°This is going to be hard,¡± she said as she let Aditi in. ¡°You look just like your mother when she was carrying you. And it was hard for her too.¡±


    ***** *****

 Chapter 61. Ill be Alright!

    A baby. Her head swirled, and when it stopped, her world had shifted its center. A small four-letter word, indicating a person who didn¡¯t even exist yet, had now taken center stage. Clutching her pregnancy test, Aditi stared at the two red lines when Sonal¡¯s angry voice pierced her ears.


    ¡°You have to abort it, you know that, right? This is impossible. Don¡¯t even think of keeping it.¡± Aditi signed. Sonal was understandably angry. Muttering under her breath, she paced the room as Rohit and Aalok watched from the sofa. The mood in the room was somber, and nothing new for them nowadays. ¡°Think of yourself, Aditi. This is not the time to get saddled with an unwanted baby.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s her decision, Sonal. Let Aditi decide, and Darsh needs to know too.¡± Rohit¡¯s calm voice interrupted Sonal, but she was in no mood to listen.


    ¡°Darsh doesn¡¯t need to know anything. He left her, for God¡¯s sake! The man only cares for money.¡±


    ¡°Every man cares about his child,¡± Rohit leveled Sonal a gaze and she looked away, seething. Aditi wondered if they too had some secret of their own. ¡°And from what I have seen of Darsh, he will definitely want to know.¡±


    ¡°What will he do if he knows? Mark my words, he¡¯ll want her to get rid of it. He must be already preparing to move on. He doesn¡¯t give a damn.¡± She turned to Aditi. ¡°It¡¯s decided then. Tomorrow we will...¡±


    ¡°Stop this, Sonal!¡± Rohit shot up to tower over Sonal, who squared herself without flinching, ready for a fight. Aditi watched them with a dumb expression; a protective hand covering her belly to keep the unformed fetus from this hostility.


    They were arguing unnecessarily. This baby changed nothing, neither her situation nor her decision. She had no intention of aborting the baby nor of going back to Shaurya. Looking back now will only take her in circles. She had to move forward and leave the past truly behind.


    She leaned back tiredly as Sonal and Rohit kept bickering while Aalok watched quietly from the sofa. He got up when she caught his eye and came to sit next to her.


    ¡°Whatever you decide, Aditi, I am with you.¡± His voice was so gentle it left her startled. For the first time in years, she realized his words held more meaning than he let on. ¡°Do what you want, whatever you think is best. It¡¯s your life and your child. And anyway, for Darsh, the game is over.¡±


    What an apt description! Yes, the game was over, and she had gotten a new lease on life. She had to make the most of it. Start over again, possibly with new players, possibly with a new avatar. And hopefully, the second round will belong to her.


    *****


    Aditi called Uncle Shekhawat and gave him two names. Pradyumna ¡®Paddy¡¯ Chaudhary - the brother of Delhi-corporator Anil Chaudhary - currently doing his stint in the Indian Navy. And Ajay Parmar, the son of a prominent businessman in Delhi, who was pursuing his MBA in Dallas. She needed information, the more the better. Her plans henceforth depended on it.


    A couple of hours later, she had the information in her mailbox - two detailed folders on the two men, and a third one that she had requested as an afterthought. Now that she was in a mood to start anew, she had to close all the back doors. Moving on meant letting others move on, too. And what better time for the gesture than now, when she was still in her dazed, upbeat, and magnanimous state?


    She picked up her phone and dialed a number. The recipient picked it on the second ring.


    ¡°Is this Mrs. Ananya Rawat?¡± She asked and heard a soft sigh from the other end.


    ¡°Formerly, Mrs. Rawat. Now just Ananya Sahay. How may I help?¡±


    Perfect! Aditi couldn''t believe her ears.


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    ¡°My name is Aditi Sharma, formerly Mrs. Aditi Darsh Rathore,¡± she said as her heart rate increased. Something pricked her eyes, but she was in such a good mood, she hardly noticed. ¡°I¡¯d like to meet you if you could spare some time?¡±


    *****


    Cafe Grandiose, five PM, the same day. Aditi sat at a table opposite Ananya Sahay. The woman was beautiful. Tall and thin with sharp angular features. Yet there was something hard about her. Maybe it was her pixie cut that gave her face a slightly haughty look. But she tried to see her with Darsh¡¯s eyes. This was the woman he¡¯d loved for seven years. There must be something about her she didn¡¯t have. There must be something that she, Aditi Sharma, would never have.


    ¡°He needs you. He is still waiting for you. After all these years, he still hasn¡¯t forgotten you.¡± She took a sip of her coffee, a sweet latte with dollops of cream and chocolate sprinkles on top. Ananya had ordered a black coffee, no milk, no sugar.


    ¡°Did he tell you this?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Aditi shrugged. ¡°He still keeps your mementos. He had this sweet poem that he had written especially for you. He tore it when I found it, but he had it nonetheless.¡±


    Ananya sighed and wiped her lips with a tissue.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that easy. My father does not approve of him.¡±


    ¡°But you love him, right? And he has money now. He¡¯s worked hard and made his place in the world. He is not the same young boy you left all those years ago.¡±


    ¡°Are you suggesting I left him for money?¡± The woman¡¯s face was red. Aditi bit her lip but stood her ground.


    ¡°Did you not? As far as I know, he only ever loved one girl in this world and that¡¯s you.¡± Her voice stretched thin as she somehow finished her sentence without it breaking. Ananya pursed her lips and looked away.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s complicated. Money was a part of the reason, but not in the way you think.¡±


    ¡°Then fill me in. I am all ears.¡±


    ¡°We were twenty-three when we met. Too young, too na?ve to know any better.¡± Ananya shook her head. ¡°I was working part-time in Rajeev Bhai¡¯s office, he is my cousin. Darsh was a junior engineer. We hit it off instantly. Everyone was impressed with him. You know how he is... I was swept off my feet.¡± Yeah... Aditi knew the feeling. The buzzing bees, the daze, the glamour. The longing, the ache, the desolation of it all. There was nothing new; she suffered it daily.


    ¡°So what happened?¡±


    ¡°My father. He started pushing me for marriage. For him, it was the right age. I, too, wanted to get married, but Darsh wasn¡¯t ready. Twenty-three was too early, he said. He wanted to make money, do something in life before settling down.¡± Her eyes went distant, as if in the past. ¡°He was driven, and I loved him for it. But there was something more to it, and it was to do with his father. He worked with a vengeance as if he was exacting revenge. As if he wanted to earn so much name and fame, it would erase that part of his life.¡±


    ¡°Have you ever felt it?¡± Ananya suddenly asked, tilting her head. ¡°Have you ever felt he would do anything for money, that he was so affected by his birth status, he would do anything to rectify it? You are rich yourself. Was that the reason he married you? To erase his past, to make up for that deprivation by attaching himself to an old family like yours?¡±


    Aditi felt weak. A sudden burst of tears threatened to gush out, but she somehow stayed calm.


    ¡°No. Everyone tries to better themselves, and Darsh is no different. But if money was his priority once, he has definitely grown out of it. Or he wouldn¡¯t have let me go.¡±


    ¡°You have a point.¡± Ananya nodded. ¡°So¡­ he left you?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Aditi colored. Ananya licked her lips before plodding on.


    ¡°I waited for as long as I could, then married Rajat. He was much richer. Darsh obviously thought it was for money. He came to talk to me the day before. It was my birthday. He found my father instead. I haven¡¯t heard of him ever since.¡±


    Ever since he had pined for her. Living his life yet not living at all. Aditi was getting a taste of it for the past week and wondered how he had survived so many years. The conversation after that was sparse. They stared at their fingernails and sipped their drinks.


    ¡°So, why did you separate?¡± Ananya shrugged.


    ¡°We fell out of love. We were never in it, to begin with. And you know how it is. No man ever measures up once you are with Darsh. You are stuck forever.¡±


    Aditi swallowed and gave a pitiful nod. She had to finish this now. She could not bear it any longer.


    ¡°So what do you say? You are already divorced. Why not give Darsh a second chance?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll think about it.¡± The woman was still non-committal. Aditi wondered if she had made a mistake. But what was done was done and she wanted this to work for Darsh.


    ¡°Well, don¡¯t take too long. It¡¯s already been years...¡±


    ¡°Why did he not get in touch?¡±


    ¡°He probably thinks you are happily married. Why didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know he would be waiting.¡±


    ¡°Well, he is.¡± Aditi smiled. ¡°He needs you. After all these years, he hasn¡¯t been able to forget you.¡± She signaled for the bill when Ananya picked up her purse to leave.


    ¡°Why are you doing this when you love him so much?¡±


    ¡°I want him to be happy.¡±


    ¡°And what about you?¡±


    ¡°Don''t worry about me. I¡¯ll be alright.¡±


    ***** *****

 Chapter 62. What happens in Dallas...(Pt. 1) (nsfw)

    It took twenty-one days to get a US tourist visa. Aditi took this time to unwind. She had to rest, conserve her energies, and get used to the new life growing inside her. It was tiny yet, its existence was not even noticeable on the outside. Yet the heavy feeling in her belly increased by the day as did her tiredness and nausea.


    She took tablets to quench it. She was a doctor, she had no reason to complain. Some things could be fixed, others could not. She just had to get on with her life.


    She spent her time reading, walking, and talking to the baby at night. She told it the stories of her family, Aron, and its absentee father when she could stomach it. Sonal frowned whenever her sessions started. She was still miffed but had finally accepted her decision to go ahead with the pregnancy.


    "You know it can''t hear you. It takes fifteen weeks and you are not even five yet."


    Yes, she knew it, yet she felt the baby could hear her weird though it was. It was her loneliness that made her believe those things. Only the baby could fill the void left by its father.


    She went to her Patel Nagar clinic to do a handover; meet everyone and say goodbye. Same with Dr. Chatterjee''s nursing home and her Gurudwara. A small world she had created while she was here, but now it was time to leave it behind.


    Four weeks later when she took her flight out of Delhi, her heart was settled. She hadn''t inquired but she hoped Ananya had made up with Darsh. That was the one last niggle, otherwise, everything was peaceful.


    *****


    She was gone. Finally, truly, really gone. Forever? Yes, forever. There was no way now she would ever come back.


    Standing on the front steps, Darsh watched as the taxi drove off. His resolve lasted for five more seconds before he rushed to the gate to stop her. But it was already too late. All he saw was the taxi turn the corner and disappear.


    "You did the right thing," his good sense reassured him as he trudged back inside. "It was never meant to be. She will find her happiness elsewhere."


    "This is the worst mistake of your life," the same good sense chastised him ten minutes later when he was finally alone. "She will never be happy, nor will you."


    Darsh signed. Happiness was not what he was looking for right now. All he needed was to get on with his life. He had to keep his promise, keep the semblance of normalcy to stop the word from getting out. Whatever happens, Dadaji should not get the wind of this. And whatever happens, Dadaji''s health should not be the reason for Aditi to come back.


    Well, it was an admirable thought. Very honorable and respectful. All it demanded from him was to remain stoic as a stone statue and forget he ever had a heart. Well, that was not too hard now he had been practicing it for the last seven years.


    Yet this time something was different. Days passed, then weeks. Work, which was his solace for the past seven years did not interest him anymore. There was nothing to look forward to. There was nothing he wanted to look back to. Except for one person who he himself had driven away. Such was his deprivation, he hadn''t been able to hold on to anything that mattered to him.


    He went to the office every day and came back. The whole house was alive with misery. The very walls whispered at him, cursing him for his misjudgment. Everywhere was her touch, her presence, the sound of her sweet voice. Everywhere in the house, he felt those soft honey eyes watching him.


    But they were not. Instead, there were others watching him. His neighbor''s smiles were replaced by frosty, curt nods. The servants whispered and gave him a wide berth. Some like Shanta bai handed in their notice. He somehow convinced her to stay but there were others he could not. Among those was his mother who now preferred to spend most of her time at the NGO. She could not stand to be in the empty house with just him.


    He had let her down. He had let everyone down. Rajeev sometimes inquired about his whereabouts but he too seemed to have come to an understanding. Their partnership was flailing. He was failing to carry his weight. The young man with boundless energy and motivation that Rajeev had pinned his hopes on was gone. In his place was now left an empty shell with no hope for the future, with no dreams nor any desires.


    Then one evening his doorbell rang. He rushed to open thinking it might be Aditi but stood dumbfounded when he saw the visitor. It was a strange woman, too tall in her pointy stilettos, with too-short hair accentuating her too-long nose. Her face stretched into a thin smile as she walked in uninvited. She was still in her business suit which meant she was here straight from the office.


    "So, here I am," Ananya said as he stared at her. "And finally, your wait is over."


    *****


    Meanwhile, in downtown Dallas, in the dark backroom of a shady bar, Ajay Parmar labored over a redhead. Her half an hour had cost him two hundred quids which would leave him out of pocket for the rest of the week, but first things first. Some needs must be satisfied. Once a beast tasted human blood, there was no way he could resist the urge for too long.


    How many months had it been since that night? Three? Four? He couldn''t remember. All he remembered of it was the luscious body under him, the sublime feeling of being her first. After weeks of watching her from afar, lusting after her as he had never known before, finally claiming her had left him feeling so supremely gratified.


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    Yes, what followed was unfortunate. His little plan backfired and she married that bastard Darsh Rathore. At this moment it would be Darsh enjoying himself with his wife. It would be his hands on her supple curves, his mouth on her cherry lips, his dick in...


    His need flared into a ravenous hunger. He rammed like a haunted beast when the woman under him screamed in pain.


    "Aargh!! Get off you fuckin cunt!" A moment later he received a kick in the gut and was unceremoniously thrown off the bed. The woman cursed and got up, pulling her top over her head as another string of obscenities showered over him. A bitch mouth she had, on that bitch face of hers. Yeah, the body was passable, but nothing compared to...


    "Find someone else, you swine. I won''t do this for a thousand bucks." She stalked out and Ajay sighed. Gathering his bruised, naked self from the undignified position on the floor, he pulled his clothes on and came out. It was still only nine PM, lots of time to enjoy but he now had barely the money left for a bus ride back to his flat. Rich though his family was, his parents were keeping him on a tight leash. His sudden plan for MBA had aroused their suspicion, and the location he had insisted upon had nearly confirmed it. It was only due to his mother''s insistence that his father had agreed to sponsor his trip. His allowance was limited and so were his resources. But some things could not be curbed, like the basic urges as he was coming to understand in these past few months.


    "Bitch!" He cursed, then staggered to the bar for another shot of whiskey. Lights flashed. Music blared. The dance floor churned like a hotpot as sweaty bodies ground to the rhythm of the night. There were more girls there, fresh into the club. Sweet beauties, showing their skin to the hilt - some pearly white, some chocolate brown. Some dewy olive and some...summer sunshine.


    Wait, what? He did a double-take. Was that...who he thought it was?


    A headful of thick waist-length curls swayed with each dance step. Tall, at least five-seven with a pair of gorgeous round breasts barely contained in a tiny crop top. A slender waist wrapped in a pair of slinky shorts and endlessly long, long legs. Ajay stared. Such smooth skin his eyes snagged on every inch until they landed on her left thigh. There it was, a curved, jagged slightly red scar. It was healed now, but it was definitely there, claiming the place of pride on her thigh.


    What was she doing here? Was she alone? Where was that husband of hers? But was it really her or...? He squinted his eyes to take a proper look. The crowd on the floor was really going crazy. His heart started racing as his body woke up to a titillating sensation. It could be her. It must be. There was no one quite like her. If it was really her, he would...


    "Your drink. And that would be fifty-seven for tonight." The bartender''s curt voice broke his haze. Irritated, he turned his head to shoot the man a dirty look when he was pointed at the two burly bouncers at the door. They were watching. They would be here if he tried anything funny.


    Sighing he fished out the leftover money from his pocket and plopped it on the counter before turning his eyes back to the dance floor. Alas, this time he did not see her. His summer sunshine was gone.


    *****


    Out of the club, take a left turn, walk to the lights, and left again. There he was parked at the curb as promised. Aditi rushed to the car and got in, pulling a long coat to cover herself. She hadn''t experienced such a thrill in ages. A thrill of the chase, a thrill of being chased and knowing where you are leading your prey.


    "That was fun. Thanks, Steve," she blabbered as a pair of light blue eyes watched her with distaste. Steve, her detective cum bodyguard cum driver cum somewhat-of-a-friend-nowadays scoffed in annoyance.


    "That was reckless and completely unnecessary. There is no need to endanger yourself, I told you we can just collect evidence and hand it to the police."


    "This is necessary." As usual, Aditi shrugged off his advice. "We have been watching him for ages and he hasn''t done anything out of the ordinary. We need to draw him out and give him a chance to make mistakes."


    "And you are sure you cannot take it easy? Maybe give him some more time to make mistakes?"


    "Very sure."


    Muttering under his breath, Steve pulled away from the curb. Aditi shook her head. She knew he meant well, but right now, she just needed to indulge herself. She needed to let go, she needed to assuage her cravings. And it was a weird craving for some real fun which she deserved. And if it meant she had to take small risks, then be it. Moreover, Steve was not even her friend. She had hired him from an escort agency at a hefty hourly rate. She could as well take him to bed right now and he would be obliged to do her bidding. Which he would do happily, as she was sure of from the looks he gave her sometimes. That would assuage another of her cravings, but she didn''t want to think of it right now.


    "Tomorrow same time, same place. Don''t be late," she said as they reached her address. Steve pursed his lips.


    "He might not come tomorrow. Donna said he is short of money."


    "Donna?"


    "The redhead Ajay hired tonight. I know her from...before." Aditi marveled, raising an eyebrow. For the nth time since she was in Dallas, she congratulated herself for hiring him. It was a miracle she found him in such a short time. Such a handsome man, well-mannered and caring. In another life, she might have considered dating him.


    "He will be there," She smiled shaking her head. "Now that he''s seen me, I know he will be there."


    "I wish you''d tell me what''s going on." Steve looked annoyed. "I can be of better help if you just tell me more..."


    "You already are a great help, Steve. And rest assured I have my reasons. I am not here out of some whim of fancy."


    *****


    Ten minutes later she was in her flat which she had rented for a couple of months. It was a beach-facing apartment complex with the soothing music of the ocean 24x7. Not all the apartments were occupied and the three below the top one were definitely unoccupied. She had made sure her specifications were met to the last detail when she signed the contract. It was an exclusive complex only for the most exclusive people. And right now, no one was more exclusive than her. Money had its advantages and what better time to indulge herself than now when she was alone, with nobody to watch over her, with nobody she cared for in thousands of miles radius. Finally, she was the free bird, that she always craved to be.


    Standing in front of her bathroom mirror she gave herself a critical look. She did not look half bad for a jilted woman. A two months pregnant jilted woman, she corrected herself and laughed. Her laughter was her only companion at the moment, along with the little one in her tummy.


    "That was a dance bar we visited tonight," she said patting her flat belly. She didn''t have much time. The baby was behaving so far and there were no outward signs but that would soon start to change. She had to make the most of the available time. "I hope you enjoyed it. It''s not a place mummy often visits but sometimes even she needs some time off."


    In response, her tummy gave a loud rumble. Aditi grimaced. The baby was hungry and she was too. It was time to feed them both and start planning for the next day.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 63. What happens in Dallas... (part 2)

    Steve was right - Ajay did not come the next day or the day after that. A week passed and nothing happened. Aditi visited the bar every evening only to attract other undue attention. Her unease increased with her impatience. Her time was running out.


    "He must be waiting for his allowance," Steve told her as they met for breakfast at one of the beachside cafes. Aditi had a floaty white dress on. Try as he might, he couldn''t take his eyes off it. "It would be wise to give it a rest for some time. Maybe take your mind off Ajay and give something else a little more attention?"


    "Like what?" Aditi got his hint but played dumb. It was hilarious how Steve blushed despite him being a professional escort. Well, what did she know? There were men, and there were men. She shook her head with a wry smile.


    "Like maybe go sightseeing?" Steve pressed on. "Dallas has many places to visit besides the shady club you insist on lurking around."


    "And what if we miss him?"


    "We won''t. We''ll get to know the moment he steps in there."


    Fair enough. She had little choice but to agree. Going around the city with a handsome man like Steve was not a bad idea. Only she did not want to lead him on. He was too nice to be used like this.


    Biting her lip, she decided to play safe.


    "Do you always go on dates with your clients?"


    His face paled.


    "I have never dated a client. What I do with my clients or what they do with me - it cannot be classified as romance."


    "I''m sorry." She could have kicked herself. Steve merely shrugged.


    "So what do you say? I would love to invite you on a date. All day, free of charge, of course!" He gave a booming laugh, but quickly sobered when she raised an eyebrow. "Unless, of course, you don''t want to go with your escort, which I''ll completely understand... "


    "Let''s go." She picked up her bag and stood up. His face creaked in a wide smile. "But I am warning you, it might not be pleasant. There might be a lot of arguing and complaining. Not to mention in-general moping around and eating unhealthy food. Is it okay?"


    Of course, it was okay. The next seven hours were fun-filled. They went around the city, roaming the streets. She only complained when she couldn¡¯t control her bladder and they were not within a minute of the nearest public toilets, but otherwise, she didn''t make a fuss. Steve was a wonderful guide and knew the city well having lived there half his life. There were museums, parks, and the place where President Kennedy was assassinated. The cafes were full to the brim, and the malls were bustling.


    Aditi hadn''t had such a great time in ages. By the end of it all, she was so exhausted, all she wanted was to drop dead in her bed. But her day wasn''t over yet.


    She watched as Steve dropped her and drove away, then called a cab. There was one last task that still remained, without which she won''t be able to sleep a wink.


    *****


    It was nearly eight when she entered Ground Zero, the grubby nightclub Ajay frequented. As usual, she was greeted with the sound of thumping music mixed with shouts of laughter and spurious grunting. The air reeked of alcohol, cigarette, and stale sex. By now she was so used to it, She trudged in without giving it a second thought.


    As expected, it was busy. The dance floor was crowded, as was the bar. Every table was taken and every dark corner was occupied by horny couples. Her stomach churned as her eyes scanned the crowd, looking for a dark head and a brown leather jacket. But tonight too, he had given her a miss.


    Disappointed, she came out. There were other clubs here that held similar attractions; maybe it was worth checking them. If not Ground Zero, he could be in the Virgin Nights, or the Brass Zone, or the Lad and the Lady. The entire area was full of nightclubs. Tonight, she was determined to fish him out.


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    *****


    Three hours had passed. The clubs were packed with people who spilled outside on the dimly lit roads. More were arriving, cars full of revelers. Hardly anyone was leaving; most were just passing out in the streets or taking refuge in the dark alleys for a quick rendezvous before starting their quest afresh.


    Soon a light drizzle started. Aditi weaved through the crowd, visiting each club on the way, each shadier than the other, darker, more gloomy, and sinister. The cold drizzle seeped through her light clothing, making her wet to the bone. Her aching legs and back told her she must have walked for miles. The stress in her bladder told her she needed a loo maybe for the fiftieth time today.


    muttering under her breath she hurried on the pavement negotiating the wild crowd when a drunk man bumped into her.


    ¡°Sorry sweetheart...,¡± he burbled before doing a double take to give her a head-to-toe. Grimacing, she clutched her jacket tight around her bare shoulders. Her short white dress did not do her any favors. It was so sodden, it left little for the imagination.


    ¡°Not dressed for the weather, are we?¡± A leer quirked his lip. Aditi cursed herself for landing herself in this situation. It was stupid, irresponsible, and reckless to come here alone. ¡°You look cold, dahlin... how about I warm you for a bit?¡±


    ¡°No thanks. I¡¯m good.¡± She tried to shrug him off, but he was having none of it.


    ¡°C¡¯mon dahlin. Give us a hug¡­¡±


    He lurched forward to grab her arm. Panicked, she sped away as fast as she could and turned into a nearby alley. At the other end of the alley was a busy road. She could get a taxi from there. Enough of this adventure, this silly craving. Her tummy was rumbling again, the baby too was scolding her.


    ¡°Yes, yes! We are leaving. You¡¯ll get food as soon as we reach home...,¡± she mumbled as she rushed to the other end when she tripped over something and fell. Well, nearly fell as someone grabbed her waist and stood her up.


    ¡°Got you!¡± Ajay Parmar whispered with his arm wrapped around her. Aditi stared, the cold in her bones now reaching her heart.


    *****


    Why was she scared? She didn¡¯t know. She was waiting for this, looking for this opportunity to confront Ajay. But now that he was here, she stood frozen. Her brain told her to run, but her legs wouldn¡¯t move. She wanted to scream, but no sound came out.


    ¡°I was watching you all this while. I must admit, you have grown even more beautiful than I last saw you¡­¡± His hand caressed her waist, then slid down to her thigh. That jolted her out of her trance. Her knee lifted in reflex to hit him where it hurt the most, and Ajay stumbled back in surprise.


    ¡°You bitch!¡± He lunged forward, but she whirled back and ran in the opposite direction. Alas, behind her was her drunk pursuer staggering towards her determinedly. She moved aside and plastered herself to the dirty wall as Ajay collided with the drunk man. In a split second, she changed her direction and ran towards the other end. The busy road was her only escape.


    She ran for her life through the dark alleyway. It was a few meters of distance before it opened onto the road into a pedestrian crossing. The signal was green and people were crossing. If only she could reach in time to cross to the other side, she would be able to make her escape.


    She rushed frantically. Behind her, she could hear thumping feet. Her instinct told her it was Ajay. The other man was too drunk to run this fast.


    Her heart thumped in her chest as a cramp started in her lower abdomen. Clutching her tummy, she took the final few strides and was about to step into the black-and-white crossing when Ajay screamed from behind.


    ¡°Not so fast, Aditi. You can¡¯t escape me...¡±


    Someone moved behind her, and before she knew it, she was being lifted out of the way. She was removed from the road, and back to the safety of the pavement, but Ajay was not so lucky. He zoomed forward as the green light of the crossing turned red. An oncoming car honked loudly, but Ajay was already five feet in the middle of the road.


    It was a matter of a split second. Ajay stared as the white xenon headlights flashed in his frozen face. Aditi watched from the pavement as the car hit him squarely in his chest. He didn¡¯t even scream. It was a smooth death. So smooth and quick, probably death too marveled at its own efficiency.


    Ajay was dragged fifty feet before the car came to a screeching halt. All she could see was his lolling head while his body lay under the wheel in a mangled, bloody mess.


    *****


    Within a minute, a crowd gathered. Nobody had seen what happened. All they could remember was that someone had shot out of the dark alleyway directly into the red light. They couldn¡¯t even remember if it was Ajay. Everyone was so busy with their own life, no one had time to see what was happening around them.


    Aditi turned and vomited, then turned to look again. She was no novice to dead bodies, yet she didn''t remember anything this grisly. There was a perverse satisfaction in looking at this one. Yes, she was sick to the core, shocked and repulsed, yet she looked on, committing to her brain the last of Ajay Parmar.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± a grim voice murmured close to her ear, and she realized someone was holding her. A warm trench coat was thrown over her shoulder as the man wrapped his arm around her shoulders and gently guided her away from the crowd.


    She squinted her eyes through the drizzle.


    What was he doing here? How did he know she was here? She wanted to ask but was too exhausted. The last she remembered was that he hailed a cab and gave the driver her address. He got in and tucked her safely in the crook of his arm as she lay there calmly. Her last thought before she lost her senses was how he knew her address.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 64. Dallas Diaries - The Last Page

    She was warm, cozy, and comfortable. A pair of powerful arms wrapped around her, hugging her close. Every time the cab jerked, their protective grip tightened, plastering her to a hard body that felt like a pillar of strength.


    It was a familiar touch, a familiar body. A familiar masculine scent, though wet and travel-worn this time. As usual, it threatened to take over her brain, but luckily, she had enough wits left to pull away in time.


    Her days of leaning on him were over, she reminded herself as she stared out of the window wordlessly. Why he was even here, she did not know.


    Maybe things did not work with Ananya, which was unlikely considering his ceaseless devotion to her. Another possibility was that he came to know about the baby and was forced to leave Ananya for the child¡¯s sake. She could see him doing that, doing the right thing and taking responsibility for his unborn child despite having no love for its mother. This was why she had warned her friends to keep quiet. Her baby did not need charity, nor could she condemn Darsh to a loveless marriage. He was welcome to Ananya while she had already accepted her lot and moved on. Her hard-earned tranquility was not worth losing over the whims of this man.


    They reached her apartment, and she rushed in to freshen up. She needed a warm shower, dry clothes, and some alone time to get her thoughts together. The enormity of the events had just begun to sink in. Ajay Parmar was dead, reduced to a mere pulp of flesh and bone on the streets of Dallas. This was not how she¡¯d envisaged his end. Come to think of it, she didn¡¯t even know how she wanted to punish him.


    She changed into her comfy pajamas and came out. Darsh was standing in front of the TV. A local news channel was on. A frantic reporter was announcing the latest tragic incident that took place on a busy Dallas street.


    ¡°Dallas traffic claims another young life,¡± the subtitles read. ¡°A very promising Indian student, an asset to his parents and nation, has been tragically taken away.¡±


    ¡°Bullshit!¡± Darsh scoffed and turned it off. His face was grim; the worry lines on his forehead were unusually prominent. ¡°Don¡¯t think about it, Aditi. He got what he deserved.¡±


    She shook her head and turned away. The vision of Ajay¡¯s lifeless body still hovered in her mind. Her head hurt and her stomach was queasy.


    ¡°I did not mean it to happen this way.¡±


    He signed. ¡°Then what did you have in mind?¡±


    She was clueless. Maybe she wanted to stalk Ajay, beat him, bring him to his knees, begging her for mercy. She definitely wanted him to apologize and suffer till death for her forgiveness. But this... this she had never imagined.


    ¡°I say don¡¯t worry about it. It was an accident. His time had come. Nobody could stop that.¡±


    But was it? An accident? She bit her lip and turned to the kitchen. He rushed ahead of her to the oven and she noticed the toasty aroma of cheddar wafting from it.


    ¡°A few more minutes. It would be ready soon.¡± He said, checking the timer. She shook her head determinedly.


    ¡°Thanks, but I¡¯ve gone off the pasta.¡±


    He raised his brow. ¡°You need to eat. You look white as a sheet...¡±


    She shirked him off. Food was not on her mind at the moment. Her brain whirred with possibilities. Doubts and fear. Now that the dust had settled, she could see a clearer picture.


    ¡°What if... someone saw me?¡± Her brain started in another direction. Darsh took a seat in front of her.


    ¡°No one did. No one had time except for me. There were no CCTV cameras nearby, and Pete confirmed you three were the only people in that alleyway. ¡°


    ¡°Pete?¡±


    ¡°The drunk man behind you.¡± He threw her a shifty glance. ¡°Pete is our witness that it was not your fault if it comes to that. He will testify Ajay chased you and ran into the red light with no help from either of us.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± It took her a few moments to put two and two together. So ¡®Pete¡¯ was Darsh¡¯s man and was probably trailing her all along while she wandered around that night. He must have bumped into her intentionally, so she would run into that alley. Maybe he already knew Ajay was in there. Maybe Darsh already knew what was going to happen. This time, he had used her as bait, and she did not even know it. Wrapping her arms around her belly, she apologized to the baby. It was her fault. It was all her fault that she¡¯d gone there and put herself in danger.


    A penny dropped as her brain cleared of its fog. Her temperature started rising. It was a plan - an elegant, well-thought-out, and perfectly executed plan. And here she was thinking she was a free bird taking her own decisions, taking revenge at her own leisure.


    ¡°It was my revenge. Ajay was my culprit. You had no right to interfere.¡±


    ¡°He was my culprit too,¡± Darsh declared calmly, meeting her eye. Suddenly, he did not look anxious anymore. He looked like a man set on a purpose, who had made some hard decisions and was about to carry them out.


    ¡°Ajay was my culprit, too. It¡¯s my brother who¡¯s lying half-dead in the hospital.¡± Darsh snapped. ¡°And you are my responsibility. I promised Dadaji. What kind of man would I be if I let you go on your revenge trip all by yourself?¡±


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    ¡°You were absolved of my responsibility when we signed the annulment. Remember the day you kicked me out?¡± Her voice was honey-sweet, yet her eyes were icy shards. His jaw clenched.


    ¡°I did not kick you out. I let you go.¡±


    ¡°Without my consent so it''s the same difference. And why come back when once you let me go? You are not needed here.¡±


    *****


    ¡°You are not needed here!¡± She kept chanting as she prowled the living room listlessly. Darsh watched her grimly, his hands balled and stuffed in his pockets. He had tried to soothe her, hold her close, and offer her some food, but nothing worked. Neither did she touch the food, nor did she let him touch her again. Her mind was made up. A line was drawn from the day they signed the blasted annulment. Before it, she was his wife. He had every right. Now he was a nobody.


    ¡°You need to leave.¡± She stopped suddenly and declared. ¡°I don¡¯t share my apartment with strangers.¡±


    ¡°Good thing I am not a stranger then,¡± he shot back.


    ¡°Ex-husband, then.¡± She curled her lip. ¡°But wait, you are not even my ex-husband, considering we were never even married.¡± She gave a chilling laugh that made the hair on his neck stand stiff. His heart twisted in his cage as he swallowed an uneasy lump.


    ¡°Aditi, please. Calm down. You need to stop working yourself in this frenzy. Sit down and relax, let me get you some drink...¡±


    "No!" she shrieked and swatted his hand away. Her face was blotchy red. Her eyes were blurred, but no tears fell out. "I said you need to leave. Go back to Ananya. You need not waste time here. I don''t need anyone. I have moved on."


    "Moved on with whom?" he dared to ask. "The last I knew you were still roaming around with your escort."


    Steve, his name was Steve. He himself had arranged for him to keep an eye on her, but that fact too needed to stay hidden if he wanted to get out of there alive. She gave him a scathing look.


    "I can go out with whoever I like. And I don''t need another man to move on. I have moved on from you, that is enough for me."


    Half an hour later, she was still going strong. Only the whole place was in shambles. The cushions were thrown around, and the soft throws from the sofas were lying on the floor. Ornaments went flying, some inadvertently finding their way to him. Luckily, her aim was not good or he would have needed a doctor. Water dripped down the table when she¡¯d toppled a half-filled glass after drinking haphazardly. She growled like a beast restless for food, only nothing could satisfy her hunger. There was only one way he knew of, but he was not sure it was a wise move just then.


    ¡°Leave! Or I¡¯ll call security!¡± she roared, swiping a hand at a flower vase that promptly crashed to the ground. Blood dripped onto the floor as a deep red welt appeared on her hand. He watched, stricken, then shot forward. He had had enough.


    ¡°Stop this now!¡± Darsh thundered as he grabbed her, pinning her tight in his embrace. She was unable to move, yet shook like a leaf.


    ¡°How dare you! Let me go!¡±


    ¡°Listen, Aditi! I am not with Ananya anymore, do you hear that? I am not with Ananya. She came and left, and nothing changed. I wanted you. All along, I wanted only you!¡±


    *****


    All along, he wanted only Aditi, but he was too stupid to realize that. As always, and as with everyone else, he had messed up this too.


    ¡°So here I am, and finally your wait is over!¡± Ananya had declared as she strolled through his front door breezily. The look on her face was pompous as if he was some beggar waiting for alms. Frowning, he tried to place her. This was not the Ananya he remembered. The close-cut hair, the stark business clothes, and the reedy figure made her look unbearably harsh.


    ¡°Ummm ...I was actually waiting for my wife.¡± He heard himself say. To his surprise, he found it was true.


    ¡°It was your wife, err, your ex-wife, who sent me here.¡± Ananya didn¡¯t miss a beat. ¡°She called me a few weeks ago to explain your situation. I wasn¡¯t sure at first, but Dad encouraged me. He said it must be fate that we both are single again at the same time. He has finally relented and given us his blessings.¡±


    Darsh stared. Ananya - forever the Daddy¡¯s girl! How she danced to her father¡¯s tunes and that too willingly. Moreover, the day KD gave him his blessings, he wouldn¡¯t need curses. The man was a snake. He would not let his precious daughter go unless there was something significant in it for him.


    ¡°Your father is happy for us?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Ananya declared chirpily. ¡°Well, he wasn¡¯t at first, but when he realized you now are the whole and sole of the Sharma fortune, he gave his permission.¡±


    A chill settled in his heart as he listened to her prattling. She had waited for three weeks to come here, and in that time, KD had uncovered what he needed.


    This was the woman he¡¯d pined after for six years, this cold, callous, greedy woman. Maybe he hadn¡¯t realized it as he himself was cut from the same cloth. But luckily, times had changed. Now he knew better. He had seen much better.


    ¡°Oh, Darsh! Why did you wait for so long? You should have come to me earlier...¡± She came closer to wrap her bony arms around his shoulders, and his body gave a violent shudder. Repulsed, he took a few steps back. This woman had no right to touch him. Apart from his princess, no other woman had any right to touch him.


    ¡°I think there¡¯s been some misunderstanding,¡± he smiled sympathetically. Ananya stared. ¡°You see, I am not single. My wife has a very peculiar sense of humor. She loves to play these little pranks. She must have thought it funny to play this one, but rest assured I¡¯ll have a chat with her. I do apologize on her behalf.¡±


    He wished her luck and closed the door in her face, but not before thanking KD for his change of mind. He was very grateful for the blessings, but unfortunately, he did not need them anymore. He was already amply blessed.


    Ananya fumed and cursed before stalking away without a backward glance. Sighing, he slumped against the door. How light it felt! The jinx was lifted and he was finally free. Free to move forward without holding himself back.


    *****


    It was two in the morning. The literal storm had passed. Aditi sat on her bed, swinging on her buttocks, hugging her knees to her chest. In front of her was Darsh, who had spent the last hour clearing up her mess. His eyes strained from jetlag, yet he was holding up admirably. Though she knew he was ready to drop any second.


    ¡°So, KD knows about the annulment.¡± She said in the way of conversation.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°And you sent Ananya back.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Which means he might retaliate and use this against us.¡±


    ¡°Yes. He will spread the news, and it will reach Dadaji. We must stop that.¡±


    And to stop that, they must get together, he wanted to add but refrained. The way she looked at him, like a predator to its prey, it was wiser to stay quiet. At least her torture was over. All he wanted now was to relax, get into bed with her and drop dead on her bosom, but he reined in his fantasy.


    ¡°And is that why you came here? To stop the news from reaching Dadaji?¡±


    Ahem! He had to be careful here. ¡°Yes. And for other things, of course.¡±


    ¡°Like?¡±


    ¡°Like¡­ for you, for us. To see if we can still make this work.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± She gave him a suspicious look. He stood like a good boy, with a straight face, crossing his hands in front of him. Moments passed. She thought for some time, then swung on her shapely butt, then thought some more. If he was being honest, she looked like a hot potato rolling in a pan wearing those fluffy teddy pajamas, but he kept that observation to himself.


    "Get in bed." She looked tired when she told him finally. His face brightened but fell the next instant as she shuffled to the far side. "Stay on that side and don''t try to act smart. We''ll talk about this later when we are back home."


    ***** *****

 Chapter 65. Dallas Diaries - The Last Page (contd)

    The night wore on. Outside, a storm thundered, pouring its bile into a churning ocean. Darsh snored lightly, sleeping on his side, facing her as if he¡¯d fallen asleep watching her. Aditi gazed at his handsome face as her heart yearned frantically. It was hard to keep away when he was so close. All she wanted at this moment was to wrap him around herself, snuggle into his chest and breathe in deeply his warm scent - so deep it will reach her core, to her unborn baby. How she wished they were a normal couple, that she could share her news with him like a normal girl. They would have celebrated their joy together. She would have claimed the happiness, the part of his love that was hers and hers alone.


    As it was, she felt awkward, like an imposter who still didn¡¯t know her place. He was not here for her after all. He was here for Vicki, Dadaji, and of course, because he couldn¡¯t get back with Ananya. She was somewhere far below on his list, a last-ditch fallback option. When nothing else worked, he was here to see if this could work.


    Her chest tightened as she got up and came out to sit on the living room sofa. Her tummy made a gurgling sound, and she gave a wry smile.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, sweetheart. We don¡¯t need anyone. We have each other, we¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    She held onto the thought as she turned her attention to other, more practical matters. Opening her laptop, she clicked on the second folder that Uncle Shekhawat had sent her. The arrogant face of Paddy Chaudhury smirked at her from the front page. This one job was still pending. She still had this one man to attend to before she could find some closure.


    But Paddy must wait. It was too soon after Ajay¡¯s death. It would raise suspicion. More importantly, she herself needed to take a step back. She had other considerations, like her baby, Dadaji, and the man currently sound asleep in her bed.


    Sighing, she shut the laptop and got up, when a groggy voice startled her from behind.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    She turned around in surprise.


    ¡°Oh, I am sorry I woke you up. I guess I was too loud¡­¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t wake me up. I wasn¡¯t asleep. I couldn¡¯t.¡± His sleepless eyes watched her silently. Her heart thudded. So he, too, was missing her. That was the unfortunate consequence of their time together. Their bodies were wired, their minds had become attuned. Tangled though they were now, their life still flowed through those connections.


    Or at least hers did. It hadn¡¯t taken him a minute to cut the cord.


    Biting her lip, she pulled her dressing gown tight around her.


    ¡°Go back to bed, Darsh. You¡¯ve had a long journey. And tomorrow we have to travel again.¡±


    He looked as though he didn¡¯t hear her.


    ¡°Who were you talking to? I heard something. Sweetheart. We have each other. Who was it?¡±


    He watched her keenly. Aditi swallowed. She hadn¡¯t realized she was talking aloud. Or loud enough for him to hear in the next room. Maybe her voice carried in the quiet of the night. Or was he standing at the door all along?


    ¡°Nobody.¡± She pursed her lips. ¡°I was just.. talking to myself. It¡¯s just a habit I developed after¡­¡± That sounded pathetic, but she kept her face nonchalant. He walked round the sofa and came to stand in front of her.


    ¡°I told you to go back to sleep,¡± she started as her unease hiked, but he seemed preoccupied.


    ¡°Was it too lonely for you, too?¡± His searing gaze was locked on her. Her face burned.


    ¡°Why would I be lonely? I have my friends. I have Dadaji, Aron, Kanta Chachi. Steve. And I have my¡­¡± she stopped herself from saying ¡®baby¡¯. That was not for now. She didn¡¯t know when, if ever, but definitely not now. ¡°What I mean to say is there are many people for me. And when there isn¡¯t anyone, I have my patients. So there¡¯s no question of me being lonely.¡±


    She stressed each word to make her point. Something weird was happening. She didn¡¯t know how they had landed herself here in the early hours of the morning. She had to watch out. Any mistake at this vulnerable moment and she would regret it forever.


    ¡°Because I was lonely. I didn¡¯t develop any new habits. There were no new people, no friends. Mom left. Even the servants are wary of me. Rajeev calls sometimes, but that¡¯s about it.¡±


    He looked so forlorn a lump formed in her throat. Did he actually look desperate? Or was he just tired? Whatever it was, the situation was getting dangerous. These fragile emotions, the quiet of the night and the crippling desperation pulling her into the centre of the cyclone - it was a recipe for disaster.


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    ¡°You need to rest now¡­¡± she glanced at the wall clock that showed they were touching four. He shook his groggy head as if in another world.


    ¡°Letting you go was the biggest mistake of my life. I regret it every day. I said I came back for Dadaji, for Vicki, because it didn¡¯t work with Ananya. But they were all just excuses. In truth, I couldn¡¯t live without you. In that house¡­ that haunted house¡­¡± He swayed on his feet, then steadied somehow to rub his tired face. She stared, motionless. Whatever he was saying, she couldn¡¯t reply in words, but neither did she want her emotions to get the better of her. Too many times before, she had fallen for his words. Too many times she had let emotions take over her brain. He was doing the same now and it would only lead to another mistake. It was all nice to play the ¡®I love you-you love me¡¯ game, but in reality, things didn¡¯t work that way.


    She watched as he rubbed his eyes like a lost child. Her heart twisted, but she made up her mind. Walking to a side table, she poured a glass of water. Things needed sorting, and she had to sort them now if she was going to go back with him. She would not return to live with this wreck of a man. Nor would she let him wreck her life again.


    ¡°I promised you a chat once we reached home, but now I realize later might be too late.¡± She started in her most business-like tone as she handed him the drink. ¡°So let¡¯s get a few things out of the way. Have a seat. This might take some time.¡±


    *****


    Darsh staggered to the sofa as Aditi looked on calmly. With each sip of the cool drink, his brain fog cleared. He was not drunk, just fatigued by his travels. And now that he was coming to his senses, he realized he had opened his cards too early.


    ¡°I hope you remember how we parted,¡± she said, and he pursed his lips. ¡°I had confessed my feelings - three times - before you told me you could never reciprocate them. You made me sign the annulment. You made me leave. That was the final break.¡±


    ¡°I let you go for your own happiness¡­,¡± he started belligerently. She waved him away.


    ¡°Please do not interrupt. As I was saying - You made me leave. You said it was for my happiness, but I knew somewhere you had a hope that one day, Ananya might return. So I sent Ananya to you.¡± She paused to wet her lips. ¡°Unfortunately, it did not work, despite my best intentions. I am sorry about that. But just because you are over her does not mean you can have me back.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that!¡± He thundered. ¡°I told you it was always you. The reason it didn¡¯t work with Ananya was because I¡¯d moved on. To you. I just realized it too late..¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a lame excuse, which I do not believe. You are a grown man, Darsh, and if you are trying to tell me you didn¡¯t know your own feelings, I cannot believe that.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s the truth whether you like it or not! And you are only saying this because you are angry. I chose Ananya over you, that hurt your ego. This is your arrogance, nothing else. You were not my first choice, nor the second. And that¡¯s what¡¯s hurting you.¡±


    That was the wrong thing to say. Aditi shot to her feet, her face flaming with rage. Not just rage, but humiliation, too. There was some truth in his words, but he had pointed it out at the wrong time. As usual, he had messed it up.


    ¡°Think whatever you want. Yes, I am arrogant, egotistic, and angry. And I am bitter. Yes, I am bitter, even hateful. I regret that I ever loved you. I regret every moment we spent together. Whatever it is, it¡¯s too late to rectify my mistake. But at least I won¡¯t repeat it. So let¡¯s get one thing clear. I am coming back only for Dadaji. It¡¯s a temporary arrangement. A compromise. I¡¯ll be gone the moment the need for this farce is over.¡±


    ¡°Well then,¡± the connections of his brain fused with rage as he too shot to his feet. His face blanched with fury as his eyes focussed on her. ¡°I am sorry to burst your bubble, but it won¡¯t be anytime soon. Remember, I still hold the power of attorney. I can destroy your family in the matter of minutes. Not to mention that sweet little annulment that you keep harping about. Unfortunately for you, I still happen to hold the papers.¡±


    Her face paled. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I mean, Aditi, you are still very much my wife and I am very much your legally wedded husband. I never filed those annulment papers. In fact, I burnt them before I took the flight from Delhi. So whatever these delusions you have for freedom, you can stuff them where the sun doesn''t shine. Because in this lifetime, you¡¯ll never be free. Did you hear that? You. Will. Never. Be. Free.¡±


    His shoulders relaxed as he watched his own devastation. He was on a roll of self-destruction and from here there was no turning back. How many times was he going to apologize and how many times was he going to beg? The way he knew her, it won¡¯t make a difference. She had made her decision. No amount of pleading was going to change that. The only thing that will work now was force - threats, blackmail, the usual weapons in his armour.


    Moreover, he was not the begging type. He claimed what was his, like the man he was. And this woman was his. For this life and the next, and the ones after it, she was his.


    He walked forward blithely and pulled her towards him, snaking an arm around her waist. The kiss that followed was harsh, full in the face. He punished her folly, asserted his right, and demanded her total surrender. She struggled uselessly. Breathlessly. Ceaselessly. When he set her free, her face was blotchy red, wet with his saliva and her helpless tears.


    ¡°You are a bastard, Darsh Rathore. A bastard of a special kind. You should have it tattooed across your forehead. Once a bastard, always a bastard. It was my mistake that I let myself forget it. But never again. Never again will I trust you or even so much as allow myself to think of you. You are a waste of space, waste of time. Garbage that belongs to the gutter. I hate you, Darsh Rathore. From the bottom of my heart, from the core of my soul, I swear upon my unborn baby - I hate you.¡±


    He was still smirking when her words hit his addled brain. For a moment or two, he was confused. She took the opportunity to slap his face - once, twice, thrice, then went to the bedroom and shut the door. Within five minutes, the building security was there to drive him out. Ten minutes later, he was arrested on the charge of unlawful intrusion.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 66. Trumped!

    The police left and Aditi rushed to the bathroom to retch her heart out. It felt like the baby was wringing her innards. So far it had behaved but today it had changed its mood. Maybe it too was protesting its incorrigible father.


    "You were not my first choice, neither the second..." the words hammered her brain as she tottered around, tripping over her own feet. She never knew he thought so less of her. She had never known she was so low on his ranking list.


    A weird numbness descended her heart as she gathered her belongings and took a taxi to the airport. Large, flashy electronic displays announced flights leaving Dallas ¨C to London, Paris, Rome, to hundreds of other places. She watched with longing, like a child in a gingerbread house, like a sick man at a banquet table. It was incredible how all those places could be reached from here. How amazing it was that some people in this world had the liberty to choose whichever destination they pleased.


    Sighing, she booked the first flight to Delhi. Thirty-six hours later, she was home. It was nearly afternoon, and as was usual for this time of the day, the house was eerily silent. Mohit was at the hospital site, her uncle and aunt at their latest jaunt. Dadaji was in his room, sleeping, as he was wont to do these days. And Nehal - she didn''t know where Nehal was, not that she cared.


    She stalked to her room and whipped her phone out to call Zorawar. It was time again to enlist his help. The last time, after the bridge incident, Dadaji had warned him to stay off her but she knew he would never defy her .


    "Any questions? " She asked briskly, after explaining to him what she needed done. As usual he''d listened without interrupting. "You understood what needs to be done, right?"


    "Yes, Aditi Di. But are you sure?" Zorawar stuttered hesitantly. "You are married to Darsh Sir after all. Isn''t it... a bit too late for all this?"


    "Darsh Sir was a mistake," Aditi snapped in irritation. "That marriage was a sham. If I remember correctly, you too were against it. You tried to warn me, you had sent me his folder but by then it was too late. Anyway, what I couldn''t do then, I''ll do it now. It''s never too late to right a wrong."


    "But...I never..." Zorawar tried to interrupt but she was too far gone to hear anything. Dismissing him summarily, she called Uncle Dawar. She had an important job for him too.


    *****


    Darsh spent the next few days in a dinghy cell of a Dallas police station. It was a corner cell, at the end of a corridor where hardly anyone ventured. Twice a day, someone came to slide a plate of food through a flap. That was all the human contact he was allowed.


    He was thankful for the seclusion; he needed it to get his act together. He still could not believe what he had done, that he had actually landed here of all places.


    Life wasn''t fair, especially his life. For seven long years, he had sleepwalked through it without knowing his destination. And now that he had found it, he had hardly taken two minutes to lose it. He couldn''t believe it. He could not believe his stupidity, nor could he believe her audacity. Where he was dreaming of joining his princess in her warm bed, with his arms wrapped around her luscious body, tasting, inhaling, seducing her. And here he was, sitting in this cold, hard cell, stewing in his own juices. How easily she had turned the tables on him. How easily she had shown him what it means to lose freedom.


    A smile tugged at his lips despite himself. It only confirmed how perfectly they were matched ¨C he and his princess. Same arrogance, anger, same razor-sharp wit, and thoughtless mind. They could argue for hours about who was more argumentative. They could spar for days about who was more stubborn. Impulsiveness was their second nature, and when it came to passion, they were equal. The only difference was in their morals. If she was his better half, he was definitely worse. She thrived in the bright sun, whereas he preferred to lurk in the shadows.


    He shook his head as he sat against the cold steel wall dreaming about his wildcat. Hours passed, then days. He didn''t know how long he was going to be here. The charge of unlawful intrusion was serious but not serious enough if no one was there to follow it through. And he knew she would not follow it through. If she wanted him punished, she would have charged him with assault. Cheating, fraud, bullying, mental and physical harassment, his list was long. But she had chosen the most harmless one, and that gave him hope.


    A dry snort escaped his lips. Shameless, he was, there was no other word. But then he couldn''t afford to be anything else. If that was what it took to stay hopeful, that was what he would do. The price otherwise was too steep ¨C his wife, his child, his entire world.


    His heart thudded as he shot to his feet and knocked on his cell door for what felt like the tenth time that day.


    "Anyone here? Let me out! I need to make a call. Don''t you know it''s unlawful to keep someone shut without access to lawyer? I''ll sue you for this..."


    Nobody heard him, no one replied. It was as if he was shouting into a void. Sighing he sat down and slumped against the wall. It was the fifth day when Steve finally came to bail him out, but by then, his patience had worn thin.


    "You took your time." He gave Steve a scathing welcome. Steve raised an eyebrow.


    "Be thankful I am here. It''s not my job to rescue errant clients from prison."


    "Then let''s talk about the job I pay you for." Darsh pursed his lips. "Tell me where she is. Did you meet her? Is she okay? Did she... say anything about me?"


    Steve gave him a disdainful look. "No, no, and no. I called her, but she refused to meet. She was obviously not okay. She left her apartment the same day. And I didn''t think it right to follow her after that."


    "Oh really! May I know the reason?" Darsh seethed. What did he mean he didn''t follow her? It was his job; he paid the man for it, dammit!


    "The reason being, Aditi is not just my quarry, she is my friend too. And friends deserve some respect. But maybe it''s too much for you to comprehend, so I''ll leave it at that."


    Whatever! His jaw locked as he left Steve on the pavement and hailed a taxi. Within half an hour, he reached the airport when his phone rang.


    "Rajeev. How are you?" He asked in surprise. "Everything okay?"


    "How am I? let me ask you - where are you?" Rajeev screeched. "I have been trying to call you for ages. Where the hell are you?" Darsh frowned.


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    "Calm down Rajeev. I am away for some work. What''s the matter?"


    "You should ask that question to your wife." Rajeev almost cried. "I knew your marriage was doomed from the day one, Darsh, but I didn''t know it will take down my business with it. Remember, you too are a partner in this business and if I go down, I''ll take you down with me."


    What the hell?


    "Will you please stop blabbering and tell me what''s happened? I know I haven''t been paying much attention to work lately but that''s not going to ruin the business. There are others to help you. And what has Aditi got to do with it? She is not even there."


    "Of course, she is not here," Rajeev seethed as his voice reached the highest octet. "Because she is in Palampur as we speak. And guess what? She is gone berserk. She has cancelled all our projects, given notice to our workers. Some are threatening to sue me, some are going to the papers. Go see for yourself and then we will talk. But I am warning you, Darsh. Whatever this feud between you and your wife, sort it out ASAP. If I lose so much as a penny in this, I promise you will pay with your life."


    *****


    It was late afternoon when Darsh arrived in Palampur. The village looked as idyllic and peaceful as he remembered, but he knew it was only an illusion. For the past twenty-four hours, he had received innumerable calls, not just from Rajeev, but everyone else. His employees at the hospital site had called, the engineers at the resort site had complained and the workers at the water-bottling plant up the mountain were worried to death. They had come here on his guarantee. He had to intervene, or they would have to consider legal action.


    He reached the Sharma residence and sprinted straight up the stairs to the circular room at the top. Pushing the door, he walked in. There she was, sitting upon the railing of her balcony, swinging her legs like a child. The sleeves of her paper-thin smock flapped into the autumn wind as she stared into the distance. The bite in the cold air brought him shivers but she was unfazed.


    A blind panic shot across his heart. If he remembered correctly, it was a hundred feet from there to the ground. The only thing supporting her was the narrow railing and a few overgrown vines, otherwise, a gust of wind would have blown her over.


    He held his heart and walked closer to grab her arm from behind.


    "What do you think are you doing? Get down right now! Do you know how dangerous this is?"


    She turned and he fell silent. She looked like a reanimated corpse - cold, bloodless, feral. Swinging her legs over the railing, she skittered down to the floor. Her lips stretched in a smile that scared the shit out of him.


    "Don''t worry, I am not going to jump. I just like the heights. I love to sit there, near my Ma''s vines. It''s my favourite pastime since I was a child." Her pupils dilated as if she was gazing at someone from another world. He swallowed and rushed to the nearby cupboard to find something warm.


    "Come here." He threw the dressing gown over her shoulders and walked her in. He made her sit on the bed, then poured her a glass of water. She drank like a good girl, slowly, without taking her eyes of him. For the first time in his life, he felt awkward.


    "So. When did the police let you go?" She asked, as if inquiring about the weather. He sighed.


    "Yesterday. I came immediately."


    She hummed and leaned back in her pillows, keeping her eyes steady on him. He stood like a prisoner. If anyone''s gaze could be arresting, it was hers. He didn''t know where to look. He didn''t know what to say.


    He waited for her to start. She didn''t bother. Minutes trickled by in silence as he shuffled on his feet.


    "You know why I am here, right?"


    "For your projects." She smiled. "Did they call you to complain about me?"


    He watched her quietly. That was part of the reason, but not the main part. The main reason was now side-lined, and the projects had taken the centre stage. Trust this wilful woman to complicate the matters, he had lost the game before he even started.


    "They called me to beg." He squared his shoulders and looked her in her eye. "These are their jobs, Aditi. Their livelihood. They have families, children. You cannot just snatch it away like this."


    "Can''t I?" She looked disappointed. He frowned.


    "No, you can''t. You must reverse your orders. Tell the villagers to remove the pickets. Tell Zorawar to remove his men. There is no need of goons in Palampur when..."


    "When you and your men are around?" She finished his sentence as she watched calmly. He exhaled.


    "Aditi please. The projects must go on. This fight is between the two of us. Let''s sort it out ourselves. Don''t drag the poor workers into it."


    "You dragged my family into it. You threatened me with their lives."


    "It was a mistake." He sighed. "I shouldn''t have said what I said. I was out of my mind, jetlagged. And then you would just not listen. You were so stubborn, so headstrong...so so..." He stopped himself in time as her brow started arching. For some reason, his heart was incredibly heavy. His impulsive mind told him to move forward, claim what was his. His need was desperate. He was always desperate. His mind, body, and now heart, too, was craving. This woman, her body, her child, everything was his and yet he was here, begging. Damn the adamant woman, damn her stupid, obdurate head. But then what would she be without her spirit? A mere shell, which he will never let her be. She had loved him for what he was, now it was his turn.


    His fists clenched as he tried to calm his mind and let out a deep breath. "What I mean is - can we not just forget it and move on? I''m willing to make up... No, I am dying to make it up to you. Please, give me a chance!" His desperation seeped into his voice, and some of it, to his chagrin, into his eyes. How he would love her, if only she let him. How he would cherish her if only she let go of the past.


    She didn''t even notice.


    "Dying!" she cackled. "Do you want to die for me? Fine then. Go jump out of that terrace and your wish will be fulfilled. Let''s see how true you are." She watched eagerly if he would actually make a move to the terrace, then rolled her eyes when he didn''t. He stared dumb faced, his feet laden. Today was clearly not his day.


    "Typical. So, as you have no plans of dying, you can take your leave. I am bored, and very hungry." She rang a bell for a maid, who scurried in readily as if she was waiting outside. He watched as a table was laid for his wife, with sandwiches, milkshake, and strawberries. He watched her, deflated, as she got up from the bed and began eating.


    "What do you think will Dadaji say? Have you thought about that?"


    "Dadaji is okay with it," she selected a particularly juicy strawberry from the bowl, then began munching. "You see, we have had reports - of mismanagement, misbehaviour and misappropriation of funds. Why, just this past Saturday, there was a brawl in the village. Some of your workers got drunk and misbehaved with some women. We cannot let it pass just because you are my husband. We have a responsibility to the village, and Dadaji agrees."


    He looked at her, stunned. This was all so convoluted, false, yet he had to admit, he was impressed. She had learnt from the best. He himself had given her the lessons. "Aditi please. You know these are all false claims. I know my people. They are professionals. Yes, there could be one or two incidents, but surely we can sort them out amicably. It doesn''t mean they should lose their jobs Aditi, they have families, financial obligations..."


    She waved her hand away as if swatting a fly. His blood boiled - at her arrogance, at his helpless desperation, and most of all, at the impossibly tricky situation.


    "I know why you are doing this, but it will never happen." It took her total indifference to bring him to the point. His frown deepened as his face took an ugly shade of puce.


    She raised her brow. "Oh?"


    "Don''t ''Oh'' me, Aditi. If you think I''ll break the marriage for the sake of the workers, you are wrong. You cannot blackmail me. It doesn''t work like that with me." His hands went into his pockets as he planted his feet apart, taking his stance. Her spoon clattered to her plate as she stood up, wiping her hands on a napkin.


    "We''ll see about that, Darsh. Meanwhile, enjoy your time here as my husband. Because soon you shall lose that privilege and I can''t wait to kick you out of my village and my life."


    He seethed as she smiled and left the room. She did not return for the night. He did not see her the next day, as he was told she left for a camp in the mountains. She hadn''t said where she was going, just took Aron and left. He waited with his heart in his mouth. This woman, and her tricks! He never knew he was so susceptible.


    Meanwhile, Palampur burned. Some of his hot-headed workers clashed with some equally rowdy villagers. Arrests were made, cases were filed. His sites came to a grinding halt. News leaked to the papers and Rajeev called again, this time practically crying. Darsh knew it was over. He was trumped in his own game by his own queen.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 67. The Deed is Done

    Four days passed, then the fifth. Aditi roamed in the mountains from this hamlet to that, carrying her dwindling supplies of medicines on an increasingly moody Aron. As usual, he was not happy trudging in the mountains all day long. That was a job for donkeys and mules, not for a celebrated racehorse like him.


    If she was being honest, he had turned lazy in her absence. None of the grooms could handle him and the silly oaf had become used to getting his way.


    Controlling him took all her energy. Then there were the camps. All day long she toiled, spending time with the villagers, talking, treating, and helping them. It was her go-to medicine when she was down in the dumps. Usually it worked like a charm, but this time it didn¡¯t. Everyone kept asking about her husband. Some praised him for his projects, for the new jobs and opportunities they had created for their children. Now they did not have to leave Palampur in search of a living. Everything they needed was at their doorstep. Agreed, there were some troublemakers like everywhere else, be it some unruly villagers or those rowdy workers, but it didn¡¯t mean the projects had to suffer. There must be a way to diffuse the situation. Could she not do something to help solve the problem?


    They pleaded to her, their desperation evident in their weathered faces. Aditi listened with an apologetic smile. There was no doubt she was using them as pawns to achieve her means, but it was temporary. Once she got what she wanted, she would compensate them handsomely. She had already instructed Uncle Dawar. Funds were waiting to be released at her signal, but that signal would come only when those all-important papers were signed. She needed that closure. Until then, everyone had to suffer, including her.


    She kept busy, was surrounded by people, yet each passing day made her restless. Every moment she tried not to think of him filled her with irritation. Every moment she thought of him filled her with anxiety.


    What if he refused to sign the papers? But what if he didn¡¯t? What if he found another way to trap her in? But what if he didn¡¯t?


    She was tired of herself. It was easy wish him out of her village and life, but how was she ever going to banish him from her heart? It felt like a futile battle that she kept fighting half-heartedly. There was no chance of winning, she just kept fighting so she didn¡¯t lose.


    A week later, when could no longer stand the uncertainty, she climbed down the mountain. People nodded and bowed as she passed through the village. Their smiles were strained. There was a disquiet below their respectful fa?ade, a confusion, possibly even anger. Many of them had become newly unemployed. Those projects had showed them dreams of a better life. Now all hope was lost, and they couldn¡¯t figure out who to blame.


    Or maybe they did, but couldn¡¯t do so openly. Loyalty bound them to her, and she was taking brazen advantage.


    She kept a benign smile and got out of there as fast as she could. It was only a matter of time. Once her freedom was achieved, Uncle Dawar will get into action. There would be bonuses, pay hikes. The projects would restart, and everyone could happily get on with their life.


    The thought brought her some peace. Reaching home, she handed Aron¡¯s reins to a groom and climbed up to her room, only to find Darsh standing where she was a week ago.


    Leaning over the edge of the terrace, he gazed into the horizon. His large hulk dwarfed the railing, making it appear like a fence of sticks. A little more weight would have crumbled it, tipping him over.


    Her heart jumped to her mouth.


    ¡°If you have changed your mind about jumping, don¡¯t bother. It¡¯s not going to change my decision.¡± She made a frantic attempt to distract him while trying to keep her indifferent fa?ade. He turned, his expression hard, unfathomable.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I have no intention of throwing away my life to satisfy your ego. Neither are you Ananya nor am I Susheel Sharma. And I have had enough of hankering after faithless women.¡±


    Her panic receded as fast as it had surged. There it was - the casual disdain that showed her her rightful place. She had a bad habit of forgetting it. Luckily, he never failed to remind her.


    ¡°Glad you finally got your priorities right.¡± She said, a wry smile tugging her lip. He shrugged.


    ¡°Yeah. It took time, but finally I am here.¡±


    He walked to the sideboard to retrieve a folder, then came closer to hand it to her. Their eyes locked for a moment as they took each other in. He looked strained. On the edge. She knew she herself looked like a homeless vagrant who¡¯d not had a decent meal in days.


    Pursing her lips, she stepped back a couple of paces, then sat on the bed to open the file. It was signed. Dated. Stamped. He had gone through the whole hog to make it official this time.


    ¡°This is...¡±


    ¡°A divorce agreement. On mutual grounds, so shouldn¡¯t take long. Annulment is not the right option now that...¡± His eyes dropped to her stomach, then back up. She flushed red. Annulment would mean the baby was born outside of marriage. Divorce gave it legitimacy. It was something she had neither thought of nor cared for. But apparently, he had.


    ¡°It was unnecessary. It doesn¡¯t matter to me...¡±


    ¡°It matters to me. My child will not be born a bastard.¡±


    She didn¡¯t know what to say. She supposed she should be grateful but as with everything else, his grand gesture had come a bit too late.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    She slouched in her place as silence gathered around them. This was it, the fate they were destined for since the moment they laid eyes on each other. In an ideal life, they would never have met. Those boys would never have come to Palampur, and she would never ever have had the misfortune to cross her paths with this man. Everything would have been fine¡­ except for her baby. That was the only good thing to come out of this miserable union, otherwise everything was regrettable.


    She exhaled as her arms crossed over her stomach. Finally, everything was over. The most difficult surgery of her life that tested her skill, patience and resolve was finally successful. She was still alive, breathing. Yes, it would take time to fully recover, but that was to be expected.


    She waited for relief, but there was none. Maybe it was too early to feel it. At this moment, everything was numb. So utterly numb, she almost felt lifeless.


    She licked her lips and realized how parched they were. She wiped her face, then realised it was wet.


    ¡°You know this doesn¡¯t change anything.¡± He watched her closely, his fists in his pockets rolling into balls. It surprised her to note he too was flushed. ¡°Divorce or annulment, you still have to come with me. We must keep the pretence for Dadaji¡¯s sake. And I cannot leave you alone in this state.¡±


    She smiled and stood up, clutching the papers to her chest.


    ¡°Thank you, but here onwards you need not bother. I can take care of my baby. And as for Dadaji, I have a way that will suit us both.¡±


    His face turned ashen. For the first time, it showed a flicker of panic. ¡°Oh. And what is it?¡±


    ¡°I am going away. I have decided to do a post-graduation. I¡¯ll return only when everything here is truly over. And by that, I mean when this ruse of Dadaji is no longer valid.¡±


    *****


    She left after two days, after telling everyone she was going away for further studies. She had signed the papers and given them to Dawar. Everything was to be done under strict secrecy until such a time as they could disclose their secret. That time would only come when Balwant Sharma died his death, but until then, all must go on as if nothing was amiss.


    He was to pretend his wife was away for further studies. That she was doing it for her career and with his full, loving support. Meanwhile, he was to play his own charade of a virtuous son-in-law. He might choose to do otherwise and use his power of attorney. That was his prerogative. In which case, she had done further arrangements with her lawyer. In the event he deprived her cousins of their rightful inheritance, she would compensate them with her own inheritance from her mother. She was ready to lose all her property in this bargain, but  won¡¯t let her family suffer on her account.


    She had worked out a flawless plan, keeping him in the centre as an enemy and working around his crafty mind as best as she could. Not only her freedom was at stake, but her family¡¯s life too. And she would do her best to protect them all.


    His heart ached with love as he sat in the study watching her go over the details for a hundredth time. Each paper, each paragraph, every legal jargon, was discussed with meticulous detail. So much she was doing to take care of her feckless cousins, who at this very moment were probably busy cursing her. He had gotten a good measure of them in these past few days.


    ¡°Are you sure she¡¯s really gone for a camp?¡± Nehal had asked him, buttering her toast as they sat for breakfast one day. It was the fourth day since Aditi left. Darsh was worried to death.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I mean¡­ it¡¯s entirely possible Di just got bored with you.¡± Nehal smirked. ¡°You see, she is used to her freedom. No one could ever control her when she was here. Dadaji had given her a free rein. She used to disappear in the mountains with her friends for days. She was particularly fond of tourists. There were even some boys that she met once¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡± He thundered. ¡°I know how my wife is and who she likes or doesn¡¯t. I don¡¯t need to hear it from you.¡±


    Nehal shrugged. ¡°I only wanted to warn you. Di was always a free bird, a pampered princess. She only does what she wants and doesn¡¯t really care who suffers because of it. You should have checked who else went with her to the mountains. Maybe there was a new friend¡­ or a handsome tourist? And this new course she is taking up in Mumbai¨Cdid you check who else is going with her?¡±


    Darsh kicked his chair back and shot to his feet. He couldn¡¯t believe his ears. The girl was vicious in her hatred for Aditi, and to his utter shock, completely unapologetic.


    ¡°Mind your language. How dare you talk rubbish about your own sister! Don¡¯t forget it was Aditi who paid off your father¡¯s debts, or by now your parents would have sold you off to some rich old fart. And Aditi is the most honest and genuine girl I have come across in my life, and believe me, I have seen many.¡±


    His blazing gaze trained on Nehal. The girl coloured, and Darsh saw a surge of jealousy mixed with a weird hunger passing through her eyes.


    Frowning, he tried to work out what it was when Mohit spoke.


    ¡°Di helps with money because it¡¯s the easiest thing to do. If it was not for her, my parents won¡¯t be in this crunch. We won¡¯t need her help to ¡®save¡¯ Nehal. Dadaji would treat us as his own and not as outsiders.¡±


    Darsh felt his irritation building. He¡¯d thought Mohit at least was on Aditi¡¯s side, but clearly, he was wrong.


    ¡°You very well know your parents¡¯ financial troubles are a result of their own gambling habits. And how your grandfather treats them is between the three of them. Aditi has no part in it, so stop blaming her.¡±


    The boy merely shrugged. The look on his face was that of disdain, as if he had seen far more world than he let out. Darsh wondered if he had underestimated Mohit too. It was entirely possible. He had done the same mistake before.


    ¡°All I have to say is that Vivaan would never have given her this free rein.¡° Mohit shrugged as he put down his fork carefully. ¡°Vivaan would never have let her control the projects, nor would he have let her out of his sight. She needs a firm hand. You were too soft for her, so soft, she has you wrapped around her little finger.¡±


    He got up calmly and left from there. Nehal followed her brother, but not before giving Darsh another of those weird glances. He had put the incident behind him, but now it came forth with full force.


    He watched as Aditi signed the papers one by one. The lawyer¡¯s disapproval was written on his face, but she took no notice. He caught Darsh¡¯s eye and gave an exasperated shake of the head. There was nothing he could do to stop this. Nothing anyone could do to stop Aditi from what was an obvious mistake.


    She left the next day after saying her goodbyes. Her destination was Mumbai, or so she had told, but he knew she would not go there. He had been warned it was none of his business. He was not to send his spies behind her, or he would regret the consequences.


    He watched as Zorawar¡¯s jeep disappeared round the corner to drop her to the train station. With laden feet and an empty heart, he dragged himself to the study, only to find Nehal waiting there for him.


    She wore a shade of peach he¡¯d only seen on Aditi before. Only her dress was a bit too tight, the neck was a little too low than he¡¯d ever seen on Aditi.


    ¡°I thought you would need a coffee.¡± The girl smiled and pointed at the silver trolley beside her. The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted in the air along with the toasty smell of freshly ground coffee beans. ¡°I hope you like it. If not, you can tell me how you like it. I¡¯ll make it just as you want.¡±


    ***** *****

 Author鈥檚 Note

    So today I received my first ¡®below average¡¯ rating. An anonymous reader has blessed this book with 2.5 stars ?? So I think this might be the right time to take a pause and look for some honest feedback.


    Please let me know your thoughts. Should I continue with the book or is it not worth spending anymore time and energy on this? The story is long winded and I know it will take some time to wrap it up satisfactorily. How many of you are interested in reading what comes next? What do you think of the story so far? How do you think it should end, considering the characters and the plot?


    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    I¡¯d be grateful to see some honest replies.


    I have had bad experience on RR with this kind of questions before so keeping my fingers crossed. Do let me know your views.


    Thanks!

 Chapter 68. Picking up pieces

    Aditi did go to Mumbai after all. That was one place she had made sure he won''t go to looking for her. Yet that was the one place he would go to if he ever changed his mind. Alas, nothing of the sort happened. This time, he had left her truly alone.


    She kept her head down and got on with work. Autumn turned into winter, then into spring of the following year. Ealy March, she sat for her post-graduate entrance exam, and by the time she had her results, baby Neev was here.


    Lying in her lonely hospital bed, surrounded by nothing else but the bare walls for company, Aditi hugged the baby close and gazed at its tiny face. Her heart filled with containment. This was truly a new beginning. From here onwards, nothing will go wrong.


    *****


    "Coffee?"


    "No thanks."


    "Tea, then? I can make good tea. You should try it." Nehal smiled. He remained cold.


    "No thanks, Nehal. And please leave me alone. I have work to do."


    "I am only trying to help. Surely, you would have accepted it from Di if she was here?"


    "But Aditi is not here, Nehal. And so it''s best for you to stay away."


    "I know what is best for me, Darsh. And you should know what is best for you. That wife of yours is never coming back. Take it from me, she''s already found someone else."


    *****


    Darsh wondered if this was the end. If anything ever will be right again. Letting her go had seemed like a wise decision at the time but now he wondered if he should have made her stay. His cunning brain would have come up with some plan, some clever scheme to achieve his means, but on second thoughts, he knew it was not worth it. Forcing her would only have made her more determined to leave. There was no use stretching something that was already at the breaking point.


    Talking about breaking points, there were other matters that needed his attention. His Ma was utterly disappointed. It was hard enough to find true love once in this lifetime. He had found her, married her, and lost her all in a span of a few months. Not just her, but his child too. Can anything be more wretched? He tried to explain, but his Ma was too weary of his excuses. His words were not good enough anymore, he needed actions to show for himself.


    "Let me know when Aditi is back. I''ll come to Palampur to see you both. Until then, no need to visit me here. I''d rather see you both together or none at all."


    Sighing, Darsh put the phone down. It rang back immediately. It was Rajeev.


    "I am happy that the worst has been averted, but I want out of this Palampur venture."


    "What do you mean?" Darsh frowned.


    "I mean it''s time for me to bow out. I don''t want to be in a situation again where I am left at the mercy of others. Buy me out and free me of these projects. It would be best for us both."


    "Buy you out? How?" Darsh stared aghast. "You know I don''t have the kind of money, Rajeev. My money is all locked in investments, properties..."


    "Don''t give me that excuse, Darsh. Right now, you are the most powerful man in Palampur. You control the riches of the Sharma family. Surely, money should not be a problem for you. Moreover, Palampur was your dream, I never wanted any part of it. It''s only fitting that you take it over and free me of this obligation."


    Darsh shook his head. Yes, Palampur was his dream and he still believed in it, but what Rajeev was asking was impossible. He did not have the cash. And misusing the family money was out of the question.


    "But this is very touching! Am I to understand you have changed after all? That you actually have grown a conscience and started caring for Aditi?" Rajeev sneered. Darsh remained calm.


    "Think what you want, Rajeev, but as things stand, I do not have the money. You have to wait until I arrange for it and it will take some time."


    It took a few months to divide the business. Darsh lost all his life''s savings. His investments, bank balance, a few properties, and the home that he had bought for his mother. The only things he did not touch were the fixed deposits in his Ma''s and Vicki''s names. The ones in his own name were broken to pay for Vicki''s hospital expenses.


    Life had come a full circle. All he had left was Palampur - the projects, the people, and the family that he had to hold together until Aditi returned. He hoped it was worth it. And it would be worth only when  his own family were back.


    "Penny for your thoughts?" He heard the now-familiar voice as Nehal pushed open the study door. His pen clattered to the desk.


    "My thoughts are worth much more."


    "And if I am willing to pay the price?" The girl raised a tantalizing eyebrow. He remained cold.


    A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    "At the cost of your sister?"


    "A cousin sister, who has so much, she squanders it with both hands." The girl smiled. "As I am sure she has given you up for good. Surely, I am entitled to her leftovers?"


    He was no leftover, he wanted to yell at the annoying girl but didn''t have the patience. Pushing her out, he locked the door. Aditi had not left him. That divorce had no meaning. As long as her heart beat for him and his for her, they were together.


    He immersed himself in work. There was plenty to do. He had to restart the projects, regain the trust of his workers, and re-investigate Aditi''s report about fraud on his sites. At the time he had dismissed them as figments of her imagination, but he could not rest easy until he was absolutely sure.


    Days passed at a frantic pace, wearing him out. Nights were slow torture, fraught with restless dreams, and unfulfilled desires. In his mind he relived his time with Aditi, only changing the outcome each time, turning every fight, and every sad moment into a happy one. That was the only thing he could do to stay sane. The rest seemed like sand slipping out of his fingers.


    He hoped she was fine. He prayed there were people around her to take care of her. She was not a loner like him and her pure heart always attracted people like magnet. It was a good and a bad, but he wouldn''t wish her anything else.


    As it was the die was cast. She was gone and he was left to pick up the pieces. And pick he will, mending each one of them until they resembled some kind of a whole. Until that time, he must keep going. That was his goal until she returned.


    Every evening, he sat next to Balwant Sharma holding his hand. The man looked more fragile with each passing day. Some days he was delusional, some days he was frantic. Some days he stared out of his window as if lost in past.


    "Susheel, my boy, promise me you won''t harm yourself." He would say to Darsh, clamping his bony fingers around his wrist. "I know Meera is gone, and with her, your will to live. But that doesn''t mean you give up. Life must go on."


    "Yes, Babuji." Darsh would pat the old man. At last, he had come to appreciate what Susheel Sharma must have gone through after his wife''s death.


    "Promise me you won''t hurt yourself. You must live for Aditi. You owe it to her. The girl has suffered long enough. You must take care of her."


    "Yes, Babuji." He would try a reassuring smile, but the hollowness inside would well up to swallow him whole. Lies and empty promises were all he could afford at the moment, and it was a poor return for what the old man had entrusted him with.


    It took him ages to bring Palampur back to normal. The calm waters of the village were stirred beyond belief. Aditi had made arrangements to compensate the workers but the moment the money came into play, new troubles raised their heads.


    People stayed unhappy. No compensation was large enough; no compromise was satisfactory. Their trust once lost was too hard to regain. The fact that their ''Bade Malik'' was no longer in charge too played its role. They were suspicious of Darsh. He was an outsider, a man they could not trust wholeheartedly. If only Aditi was by his side, things would have been different, but that was not to be.


    He spent his days trying to undo the damage. The rest of the household remained oblivious, or rather, they chose to watch from the side-lines as he struggled, running from pillar to post to bring things under control. He had hopes of help from Mohit but as the weeks passed, the boy too revealed his true colours.


    "It was underhand of Dadaji to give you the POA. It should have been me. I don''t understand how he could do such an injustice to his own grandson."


    "He must have had his reasons." Sitting behind his desk at the hospital site, Darsh shrugged his shoulders. It was just a week after the site restarted. There were still a million things for him to iron out, and Mohit''s whining was the least of them. "Why don''t you ask him yourself? Anyway, you have plenty of time nowadays seeing as you have refused to resume work here. How do you spend your days again? At the club? At the racecourse? Or at that shady hotel in Rajpur where you entertain the most interesting guests?"


    "How I spend my time is none of your business!" Mohit flushed. "I''ll do as I please. Don''t forget I own half of Palampur. It''s you who''s not needed here. If you have any shame, you will sign that POA over to me and leave here pronto."


    "And why would I do that?" Darsh raised his eyebrows.


    "Because you have no business here. Di is gone and so should you. You have your home in Delhi and this is mine."


    "And what about the sites?"


    "I''ll handle them. I have enough experience now. I don''t need you."


    Pity. Darsh tusked. Mohit might not want him, but he was needed here nonetheless. There were things he had uncovered in these past few days. The embezzlement of funds and the wrongdoings that Aditi had reported were not all untrue. Funds were mismanaged. Quality was compromised.


    "Sure. I''ll leave when I have set things here in order." He leaned back in his chair to give the boy a calm look. "You see, I have discovered we have been purchasing substandard material at a high cost. Someone''s been siphoning the money away, compromising the quality of work, and blaming it on others. Some of my trusted employees have reported the involvement of a stakeholder. So far, I was away so no one dared to raise it, but now that I am here, they have started talking." His sharp gaze stayed trained on Mohit. The boy looked pale.


    "Suit yourself. You won''t find anything. There''s nothing to find anyway. And even if you find something, it won''t have anything to do with me."


    "Are you sure?"


    "Yes!"


    "Good then. You have nothing to worry about."


    "Of course, I have nothing to worry about." Mohit''s face turned hard. "And even if I had, I would advise you to keep out of it. For your wife''s sake, if not yours. Remember, she has no one in this world apart from you."


    Those words stayed with him as he went about his business the next few days. He spoke to his workers, those who were sympathetic with the Sharmas and those who weren''t. One thing was common - nobody liked Mohit Sharma. The villagers chose to keep mum, some out of loyalty, some out of fear. It seemed Vivaan was not the only tyrant here. Mohit came a close second.


    How had he been so blind? Rajeev had been right about the boy all along. Maybe this was his undoing. This failure to gauge people that will haunt him forever.


    The night fell as he collected his things to start for home. Today he had come to visit the bottling plant at the caves. The place brought up so many memories they made him dizzy. The path downwards from the mountain was lonely yet he was lost in his own world. The cool spring air, the falling dusk, and the chirruping of night insects felt like a call from the past. The fireflies twinkling in trees mesmerized him so much that he failed to notice someone coming out of the bushes to block his path.


    It was a pack of dogs, wild and hungry from the look of them. It didn''t take them five seconds to set Eros off.


    Darsh didn''t remember much after that, only the darkness and the jerks as Eros thundered through the forest waywardly. The reins slipped out of his hands as he tried to duck against bushes. The final thing he remembered was when the horse slipped into a ravine. The fall took forever. And when it stopped, the dead weight of the horse was on top of him.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 69. A Leap Of Faith

    How life goes on! Days pass like shadows in search of a substance. Every destination seems like yours from afar, but as we draw closer, it turns out to be a mirage.


    Three years had passed. Three long, and lonely years, yet she was still there, waiting.


    Sitting on the golden sands of Harihareshwar beach, Aditi gazed into the sunset. In front of her were two kids building a sandcastle. Each time a wave washed ashore, the castle crumbled to the ground, yet the kids rebuilt it enthusiastically - bigger and better.


    Aditi gave a wistful smile. How easy they made it look, yet she knew how hard it was.


    "I can''t believe how fast Neev is growing. It feels like just yesterday when he was a baby." Ruchi, Aditi''s best friend for the past three years, gave Neev a fond look. Aditi smiled.


    "I can say the same about Anshul. He barely reached my waist when we first met in Palampur. And look at him now. Soon he''ll be taller than me."


    Yes, the five-year-old boy she had met in Palampur and let ride on Aron had indeed grown taller. That day when she met the little family at Sunset Point, she hadn''t thought they will cross each other''s path again. Yet here they were, three years later, as best friends. Dr. Saket and Ruchi Jaykar - the famous neurosurgeon couple in Kochi. Saket was also a visiting lecturer at the Kochi medical college where Aditi met him when she joined the course.


    Life had strange ways. People you think will be with you forever leave you in the middle. And people who you never hope to meet again, become your life''s support.


    Sighing, she turned back to the sea. The setting sun had painted the horizon orange. Waves of molten gold rose in the sea. In the distance, a ship floated calmly toward its destination.


    "It¡¯s weird, isn''t it?" Ruchi''s voice was quiet. "The way we hope things to be and the way they actually turn out."


    Yes, Aditi agreed silently, drawing shapes in the sand. Indeed, life was strange. Unpredictable, sometimes even unliveable.


    "That day when we met you at Sunset Point, Saket and I made a bet."


    "About what?" Aditi looked surprised.


    "About you and Darsh. That evening, after you two left for the temple, we went back to our hotel. Anshul was asleep and the only thing we could talk about was the beautiful couple we met. I said you loved Darsh to bits, but he was hedging his bets. Saket insisted it was the opposite. No man ever looked as smitten as Darsh did when he looked at you. But he thought you didn''t care. He said you were too full of yourself."


    Oh well. It was an accurate assessment. Trust this doctor couple to diagnose a disease with one look at the patient.


    "So what was the bet? Who would break up first?" She forced a dry, humorless laugh. "Well, let me tell you it was teamwork. He brought it to the breaking point, and I dealt the final blow. So we both get the credit."


    "Don¡¯t joke." Ruchi frowned disapprovingly. Aditi went solemn. She hadn''t meant it as a joke. It was the truth. Even after three years, the subject was painful. It was a weird story - a love story without love. A marriage without meaning. Or maybe there was meaning but it eluded them till the end. Why it still hurt she did not know. Surely, a cut made three years ago should have healed by now.


    Her eyes raised to her baby. It didn¡¯t help that Neev was a spitting image of his father. The mop of dark hair, the twinkling eyes, every inch of him already reminded her of Darsh. Some days it felt like a blessing, most days a cruel joke. Her child was not hers alone. Someone else had an equal claim on it, yet she had no claim on that person.


    Ruchi¡¯s consoling hand came to rest on hers.


    "You need to let go. You have a habit of letting your wounds fester. It will not help in the long run."


    Long run? Aditi laughed. Who cared about the long run? When each day was a burden, every step a ton of weight, who cared about tomorrow? And about festering wounds - she did not want to go there. It was like her life was stuck in a time loop. Whichever path she took, she landed at the same place.


    "I am fine. I have my baby. What more could I want?"


    ¡°You need a man in your life. You need Darsh.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t. I am over him.¡±


    ¡°Stop lying. You are stuck on Darsh and hate him for it. In the last three years, not once has he come looking for you, and that has turned you bitter."


    Darn! Did the damn woman always have to be so right? Anger bubbled inside her. Yes, she was bitter. Resentful. Full of bile and jealous craving. How dare he forget her when she couldn¡¯t! How dare he when her mind and body yearned for him. She didn''t know what it was about him she longed for, the man hadn''t even touched her properly. Their one, half-hearted night together was now a thing of fantasy. She relieved it again and again, then again, until she was spent. She was a prisoner of her own mind, like a hamster on a wheel, she walked stuck in the same place. There was a hole in her life. The child, the studies, the insane hours of work, nothing helped to fill it.


    Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    Her new friends knew her state. Saket was too perceptive to interfere, but Ruchi had no such qualms.


    "Why don''t you call him? You are in touch with Kanta Chachi to check on Dadaji. Do you not talk about the others?"


    "No, we don¡¯t. They have my number. They can call if they want." She swatted the thought like an irritating fly. She would not call. She would not inquire. If any of them truly cared for her, they would have called. But not once in three years, she received any call from Palampur. It was as if they had disappeared from the face of the earth. Or rather, as if she had never existed. A bitter lump clogged her throat. Ruchi sighed.


    "This cannot go on, Aditi. You need to let go and start living. There are others if you don¡¯t wish to go back to Darsh. I know someone who''s really interested."


    Ah! So this was what it was all about. She knew who that ''someone'' was. In fact, she should have guessed where this conversation was heading.


    "Ashish is a good man Ruchi, but he is not for me. Or rather I am not for him. He deserves better, someone who truly cares for him."


    "You care for him."


    "Not in the way that matters."


    "Then may I ask what matters to you?" Ruchi flared. "My brother helped you when you had no one. He helped you through college. He made excuses for you when you struggled to manage your studies with the baby. He''s been there for you through thick and thin. What more do you want?"


    It was good that the sun had set. In the dark, she could hide her anguish better. If only Ruchi knew the full truth. Yes, Ashish had done all that, but in return had expected much more. She obviously could not give it, and since then something about him had changed. It did not help that he was a professor at her college. The stalking, the bullying, the disparaging remarks¡­Aditi wished she could share with Ruchi but could not.


    "Please, Ruchi. Don''t force me. I am not ready. I may never be." She stood up and started tidying up. It was Sunday evening. She had to get ready for tomorrow. It was an important day in her career.


    They gathered the kids and came home. As the car stopped near Ruchi''s home, the woman looked at Aditi.


    "I''m sorry if I have offended you."


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Aditi shook her head. "It''s okay."


    "It''s just that it''s not often that my brother likes a girl. And when he does like someone it''s hard for him to let go."


    "I understand." Aditi swallowed. Ruchi shrugged.


    "All the best for tomorrow then. Your first independent surgery. Hope all goes well." She got down and took Anshul out. Aditi waved goodbye and drove home.


    Her first independent surgery. Her surgeon''s license depended on it. So far, she had only operated in the presence of senior surgeons but tomorrow it will just be her in the operating room.


    She gave Neev a bath and put him to bed. Then started reading notes for tomorrow¡¯s surgery. It was nearly 1 in the morning when she finally went to bed.


    *****


    It was supposed to be a 45-year-old woman, with normal health, with no apparent health complications. In truth, she found a 73-year-old, severely diabetic man with high blood pressure. This operation was to remove his kidney stones but was fraught with complications.


    "So Dr. Sharma. I hope you studied the patient''s medical history. Any questions?" Dr. Ashish Reddy stood in front of her with a quirked smile. Around him were three more doctors, nurses, and ward boys. A few meters away were the patient''s relatives, who luckily did not know what was going on there.


    "But... I was given a different file. I think there''s been a mistake. I don''t think I am supposed to operate on this patient."


    "There is no mistake Dr. Sharma. A surgeon must be ready for any eventuality. This is a part of your aptitude as well as your attitude and skill."


    At the cost of the patient? She had never seen any other junior doctors put through a similar test. They got ample time to study their patients. This was something new. Something that was probably designed especially for her.


    Her palms became sweaty, and her heartbeat increased. Ashish watched her with cold eyes.


    "Go on then. Get ready. It starts in twenty minutes. Remember this assessment will impact your medical aspirations. So be careful. And all the best."


    *****


    Aditi grabbed her scrubs and raced to get ready. By the time she reached the OT, ten minutes had passed. A nurse filled her in with details as she walked in. She instructed the anaesthetician and got to work.


    The clock ticked by. It went on okay for a few minutes when the patient started showing signs of distress.


    "You know he''s had a heart attack recently, right?" A voice sounded from behind her, she was just about to make it was Dr. Ashish. Her mind blanked. Heart attack?


    Surprised, she looked at the duty nurse who read the file earlier. The woman avoided her eye. She turned to look at Ashish. His face was serene.


    Panic crossed her heart. Heart condition meant the patient needed different drugs to begin with. A heart specialist would need to be on the standby. Even then it might not be enough. What else had they hidden from her? Was the information the nurse read even accurate?


    "Dr. Sharma. What do you do when you are operating a patient with a heart problem? A severely diabetic patient, with high blood pressure and heart problem. Do you remember?"


    Of course, she remembered. She knew what she needed to do. But they were already past that stage. She shouted at a nurse to change the IVF drugs but suspected it was too late.


    This was a trap. A trap set for her and the patient might be collateral damage. This was all horribly wrong. Ashish had gone insane. But was he that insane to let a sick man die just to see her fail?


    More importantly, was she willing to find out?


    "Dr. Sharma, hurry up. What are you doing? Look at your patient..."


    It took her a split second to make the decision. She had to back out. Ashish won''t let her succeed and she couldn''t take chances on the patient''s life. The man might get a fair chance if it''s not her operating on him.


    She stepped back quietly. The others around her clamored, pointing at the patient, then at her. The heart monitor beeped frantically, then Dr. Ashish Reddy came forward to take over.


    "I am disappointed." He told her in front of her scandalized colleagues an hour later. The patient''s relatives had just thanked him for saving his life. They had also given her disparaging looks - one that said she did not belong there.


    Aditi sat on a side bench, still in her scrubs. It took her hours to come out of the shock.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 70. Regrets

    Aditi went to the staff room to change out of her scrubs. It was four hours after her surgery fiasco. The patient was out of recovery and had been taken to the ward. She thanked God at least he hadn''t suffered on her account.


    Standing at a drink dispenser, she glugged a glass of cold water. A door opened behind her, and Dr Reddy stepped in.


    "You did well today. You knew exactly what you had to do." He sneered. "A surgeon needs such presence of mind. Well done."


    "How could you, Ashish? You risked a patient''s life for your personal agenda. Shame on you!"


    "He was never at risk." Ashish laughed. "Do you think I''ll stake mine and the hospital''s reputation for such a trivial thing? All the meds given were correct right from the beginning. The nurse knew what she was doing. I just wanted to create panic and you fell for it."


    She colored. So, he had fooled her. She should have seen through it. But on second thoughts, she would do the same again. In that situation, when you can trust no one but yourself, you have to do what''s best for the patient.


    "People will talk. The nurses, and the OT attendants. You will be exposed."


    "No darling. They are my trusted people. We know each other''s secrets and look out for each other."


    She didn''t know what to say. She never knew this side of Ashish. It was hard to believe he was Ruchi''s brother.


    "Why? Is it because I refused Ruchi yesterday? I did what I thought was the best for us both. You know I can never love you."


    Ashish shook his head. "It''s not about love darling. I can live with that. But this is the last time I''ll have a hold on you, and I intend to use it to the fullest."


    He gave a satisfied smirk, then left. The next few days went without much happening. People whispered, but not about Ashish. They discussed her failure in the OT. They took bets on how long until she was shown the door.


    She kept her head down and got on. The only way to shut the gossip was by proving her mettle. She got plenty of chances. She was given harder, more complex surgeries by other professors. They were all successful but alas, they did not count toward her final assessment.


    Her final assessment would be set only by Dr. Ashish Reddy. She will have to do what he designed for her. She waited with bated breath for a new date to be set. When it was, she was surprised to find it was a straightforward case.


    "It''s a simple leg amputation. The patient injured it three years ago. Has tried a few surgeries- none successful. Now it''s too bad to keep it any longer."


    "And what''s the catch?" She frowned as Ashish gave her details. Ashish smiled.


    "I''ll let you find it out yourself."


    He gave a mysterious smile and left. Aditi frowned and logged on to her computer. It was a thirty-three-year-old male patient with no previous medical history. The name was Darsh Rathore.


    *****


    He was in ward 6. It was on the third floor. She raced in a mad rush only to be stopped by Zorawar in the corridor.


    The man looked like he always did yet something had changed. His face looked weathered. Worry lines creased his brow.


    "How is he?" She asked panting breathlessly. Zorawar shook his head.


    "Not good."


    "Why didn''t you tell me earlier?"


    "Darsh Sir didn¡¯t allow. I had to force him to come. He didn''t want to leave Palampur."


    "So you knew all along where I was!"


    "Yes." The man looked ashen. "I had to keep an eye on you. You were in touch with Kanta Chachi and she was in touch with me. But we kept quiet as you had warned Darsh Sir not to bother you."


    She didn''t know what to say. So it was her own warning that worked against her. Everyone knew everything but they kept away.


    Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.


    "So what changed now?" Her annoyed voice startled herself. "What made you come to Kochi all of a sudden?"


    "Two days ago, Darsh sir fainted. I thought it was high time, and Kanta Chachi agreed too."


    Aditi entered the room. It was a hot Kochi afternoon. The sunrays bounced off the windowpanes to illuminate the patient. Despite the brightness, he looked grey.


    Her footsteps woke him up. He gave her a look, then smiled.


    "Dr. Sharma. Nice to see you again."


    She didn¡¯t reply. After such a long time, setting her eyes on him felt surreal. It was as if she hadn¡¯t dreamt about him every night. As if she hadn¡¯t cursed him every waking hour. Her eyes moistened. He had shed kilos. His face was gaunt, typical for a long-suffering person. At his temples, she could see a shade of grey. What had he been up to?


    "What have you been up to, Ms Sharma? You have put on weight. And glasses! My my! You must be burning a lot of midnight oil." He laughed as he gave her his penchant head to toe. Aditi colored. It was a relief to see not all had changed. Some of him was still the same as before.


    She sat by his bedside, sometimes holding his hand, sometimes examining the injured leg. It looked bad. She didn''t know how he had managed to do this to himself.


    "It was an accident. I was coming down from the caves. There were some rabid dogs and Eros freaked out."


    "But how?" That forest did not have rabid dogs. They had foxes, wolves, and some stray bears, but never dogs.


    "They were Mohit Baba''s dogs." Zorawar supplied, simmering with rage. Aditi paled. Mohit was more interested in dog racing than horse racing, but she didn''t know he kept his own team.


    "He starved them and let them loose on Darsh Sir. We only found him the next afternoon. By then he was under the dead horse for nearly eighteen hours."


    Zorawar was tactful enough not to paint a colorful picture, yet Aditi could visualize it vividly. A team of rabid dogs, chasing an unsuspecting rider. The horse tumbles and breaks his back to fall on top of the rider. The dogs catch up in glee, having found their food for the day. The result, as she imagined, was horrible.


    She sat numb, staring at him. There were bite marks on his body - on his face, neck, and arms. Her eyes streamed. This was all her fault. Her weird family had brought this on him.


    "I am sorry." Her voice was contrite. He shook his head.


    "It was not your fault."


    "Why didn''t you ever say anything? Why didn''t you call? I would have come immediately!"


    "I did not want to force your hand. And you told Kanta Chachi not to talk about anyone else."


    Her face turned ashen. He shook his head.


    "It wasn¡¯t your fault. You left me because I did not deserve you. It should have been your decision to return."


    She humphed and glared at him. She didn''t know since when he had become so morally high. Once he took her for granted. Now he was almost saintly in his wisdom.


    Irritated, she bent down to hug him tight, then kissed his brow, rubbing her wet face into his. He stilled for a moment, then his arms wrapped around her waist.


    "Careful Dr. Sharma. If anyone sees, you will be charged with indecent behavior with a patient."


    "Let them." She didn''t care. She didn''t care what they did to her anymore. She had more pressing concerns. Her time here had come to an end anyway, she had to take a decision.


    Ashish had arranged for this, somewhere in her brain a warning sounded. Be watchful. He must have a plan.


    The rest of the afternoon Aditi spent running from pillar to post. She arranged for extra X-rays, scans, and blood tests. The file of his previous surgeries was fed into her brain. She spoke to her seniors, anyone and everyone she could get her hands on to discuss the case.


    Alas, the feedback was not positive. The leg had been neglected for too long. It was as if the patient never expected to recover. As if he wanted this injury to be his last.


    She listened with a sinking heart. She had mocked him; dared him to commit suicide to prove himself. Now here he was. This was his way of proving his commitment. It was not a jump from her balcony but close enough. At least he had finished all his jobs before the end.


    Her heart bled as she went about her jobs the rest of the day. In the evening, she got Neev to the hospital. It was about time he met his father.


    *****


    Night fell. She was still there. Neev had fallen asleep on his father''s chest, having played for ages. His father too looked like he''d been given a new lease of life. His face was content, yet the corners of his eyes were moist.


    She held her heart and focussed on the leg. Her fingers traced the blue veins, the rupture marks from the wounds where the splintered bone came out. The previous surgeries and three years had done little to mend it. The skin was grey-green and uneven. Underneath, she could feel lumps of bad tissue.


    "What do you think? Is it worth saving?" His voice was quiet. She looked up to see him watching her forlornly.


    "Of course, it''s worth saving. What a question to ask!" She snapped then realised he wasn''t talking about his leg. He was talking about them. Their fractured relationship.


    "Is it too late?" He watched her closely. She swallowed a lump.


    "It''s never too late. You should have come earlier though. You wasted too much time."


    "You warned me not to bother you."


    "I warned and you listened! Really Darsh! Since when did you need my permission to bother me? Do you know how much I waited? I waited since the moment I left. In Mumbai when Neev was born, here in Kochi for the past three years, but you never came." Her voice broke by the time she finished. She realized her eyes were streaming. He held out his arms. She didn''t need a moment''s thought to take their refuge.


    He stroked her head, running his fingers through her hair.


    "I knew it would never work. You should never have left Palampur."


    "Then you should not have let me leave."


    "I had to. I didn¡¯t deserve you then."


    She raised her eyes. "And you do now?"


    He looked reassured. "I think so. You should come to Palampur to see for yourself."


    She intended to, but not before he was properly fixed. And that would take time, patience, and some careful planning.


    She gave him a long look, then snuggled closer to hug him and her baby. Yes. It was worth saving. It''s easy to make the cut and chuck away a part of you, but it''s not worth it if you spend the rest of your life missing it.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 71. The Final Assessment

    It was the next morning. The Kochi hospital was busy. The waiting areas were full of patients, and the staff scurried around carrying out their duties.


    The air filled with a tangy aroma of chlorine. Sitting in his bed, enjoying the breakfast brought by Aditi, Darsh looked wistful.


    "You know I used to hate this smell." Aditi gave a questioning look. He smiled.


    "I used to avoid hospitals. I thought they were only for old people and pregnant ladies. Vicki''s accident was the first time I ever spent more than an hour in a hospital, but now it feels like home."


    Like home! Really! Aditi smirked. He looked offended.


    "It''s the truth! I used to hate hospitals but now I like them. You should see our hospital in Palampur. People love it. They come from places to see it. We are now better than Rajpur Hospital and many others in the area. And the facilities and doctors are no less than any Delhi hospital."


    "Sure." She was heartened by the pride with which he said ''our hospital'', but she wasn''t sure how good this Kochi Hospital would prove for him. It was nothing to do with the place itself. It was to do with her, and her history with Dr Ashish Reddy.


    "You should have stayed in Palamur. You shouldn''t have come here." Her voice was full of foreboding. He shook his head.


    "They don''t have the medicine I need, nor the doctor."


    The eye lock that followed was pensive, full of longing and regrets for lost time. Yet there was hope for the future. Tomorrow will be another day.


    Aditi patted his arm.


    "You should rest now. I''ll see you later. The nurses will give you medication and Zorawar is here but text me in case you need me."


    "Don''t go yet. Please. We have never been like this before. It feels nice." He held on to her arm like a child. She gently rescued herself.


    ¡°We¡¯ll have more time. I promise.¡±


    Her throat had a lump when she gathered his reports and came out. She had to get on. The main test was just about to begin.


    *****


    "So Dr. Sharma. I hope this time you got enough time to study your patient." Sitting behind the glass desk of his office, Dr. Ashish Reddy smirked. Aditi stood in front of him, obediently, thinking just how much depends on this conversation.


    "Yes, thanks for the extra time you allowed me. I was able to get more tests done."


    "Sure. Not a problem. I wouldn''t want you to think we are being unfair to you. Anyway. Are you ready for the procedure?"


    "Um¡­about that. I did some research. I think we can save the leg. There is no need for amputation if we try this new medicine¡­¡±


    He raised a hand to cut her short.


    ¡°I know what you are up to Ms. Sharma. I know you have been in touch with my colleagues to take a second opinion, which I¡¯d like to remind you, undermines mine, but unfortunately for you, it hasn¡¯t worked. They agree it¡¯s impossible to save that leg. So please get on with what I suggested.¡±


    "But we can save the leg! I know it¡¯s a fairly new medicine and is still under trial but I think in this case, we should give it a go. Surely, considering the patient¡¯s welfare¡­"


    ¡°It¡¯s not your job to consider the patient¡¯s welfare, Ms. Sharma,¡± Ashish thundered. ¡°Your job is to get through your final assessment, which I¡¯d like to remind you is already late. Any further delay on your part will be considered as deliberate stalling.¡± She stared speechless. He pressed on.


    ¡°The first time you complained you didn¡¯t get enough time to study the case. You got cold feet in the OT and failed to perform. Now you are unwilling to do the procedure and instead want to try this new medicine. Let me tell you how this looks. It shows you in a bad light. As if you are not confident enough in your ability.¡±


    ¡°But that¡¯s not true! You know I have done other surgeries; I have the required confidence and skills¡­¡±


    ¡°Then show them in the OT. Perform the procedure, take your degree, and leave. We won¡¯t discuss this matter any further.¡±


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    She looked numb as if a bucket of cold water was poured over her head. Ashish got up from his chair and came to stand in front of her.


    ¡°My darling Aditi. I am sorry to be a pain in the ass, but I cannot help it. I know what this patient is to you, and that is why I have arranged this special torture for you. Enjoy it while you can and leave once you are done. My best wishes go with you and your lover.¡±


    ¡°Ashish, please. I can¡¯t do this.¡±


    ¡°Are you suggesting someone else should take over from you?¡± He tilted his head, eyes glinting with glee. ¡°I will do the honors, gladly.¡±


    ¡°NO!¡± she spluttered, horrified. ¡°No, please. I didn¡¯t mean that. I¡¯ll handle the case. Let me. Please.¡±


    He shrugged.


    ¡°Fine. You are in charge anyway. Tomorrow we¡¯ll meet in the OT for one final time. Do it and be off. I don¡¯t want to see your face again.¡±


    *****


    She sat dumbly wringing her fingers. It was night. Neev had played and fallen asleep again. Darsh watched her as he cradled Neev in his arms.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just do what he says. The others have given up on that leg anyway. At least you¡¯ll get your license.¡±


    ¡°No. We can¡¯t let him bully us. The amputation is the last resort unless we have exhausted all other options. We must get a choice. You must get a choice.¡±


    ¡°The choice is clear, Aditi. And we have already saved what was worth saving. The leg is not important.¡±


    She scoffed and ignored him. He had no idea what he was talking about. She had seen people after amputations. It took them ages to recover, not just physically, but mentally.


    More importantly, she wouldn¡¯t be able to take it. A man like him, so virile, so full of life ¨C she could not imagine him limping around with crutches.


    She got up and started pacing the room. Darsh sighed and signaled Zorawar to take Neev away.


    ¡°Come here.¡±


    She stopped and went closer. ¡°What? Do you need anything?¡±


    ¡°Sit by me.¡±


    She sat by his side. He took her hand into his.


    ¡°Look at me.¡±


    ¡°May I know what this is all about?¡±


    ¡°Do you think I¡¯ll be¡­lesser without a leg?¡±


    What did he say? She stared horrified.


    ¡°Do you think¡­you¡¯d be ashamed of a man like me beside you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d be ashamed of a man who thinks so less of me!¡± Furious, she snatched her hand back. He sighed and grabbed it again.


    ¡°I thought so too. Then let¡¯s not fight over it. Let¡¯s get it over and go. If I had gone to any other place, they would have done the same. There is no point stressing over it.¡±


    He didn¡¯t understand. It was her fault. It was her brother¡¯s doing. She could not sit straight until she had undone the damage.


    She stayed until he fell asleep, then came home with Neev. Her brain whirred with possibilities, but none looked promising. She could admit him to some other hospital, but there too the chances of them saving the leg were slim. Not many hospitals allowed under-trial medicines and it was unlikely they would listen to a junior doctor like her.


    Should she talk to Ruchi about Ashish? But that might do more harm than good. It might draw a wedge between the siblings and Ashish would give Darsh¡¯s case to someone else, who in turn would have no compunctions about removing his leg.


    Thoughts made her tired. Her brain stopped working. Finally, she did the thing she always did in such situations. She called Dr. Asthana, Sonal¡¯s Dad and the Dean of her former college.


    *****


    It was ten the next morning. The surgery was in an hour. But there was no word from Dr. Asthana. Last night when she spoke to him, he hadn¡¯t sounded very encouraging. If the leg was bad, it had to go he said. But it depended on the attending surgeon¡¯s discretion, experience, and knowledge. He said he¡¯d talk to a few people and get back. But she hadn¡¯t heard from him since then.


    She was at a loss. It felt like the decision was made. She had no choice. No choice at all.


    Her hands trembled as she put on her scrubs. She saw the attendants take Darsh to the OT. Unlike her, he was calm, resigned to his fate. Their eyes met and each sent an ¡®all the best¡¯ to the other.


    *****


    It was fifteen minutes to 11. Dr. Ashish Reddy was not there. Without him, she could not begin. He was her supervising surgeon.


    They waited. Aditi wondered if this was another of his tricks, that this time too, the nurses and attendants were in it with him, but they too looked surprised. It was unlike him to miss an assignment, they said. He was after all a very responsible member of staff.


    As the minute hand neared 12, she wondered if the surgery would be called off. Without a supervisor, there could not be an exam. And without Dr. Reddy, there definitely could not be her exam.


    Alas, she saw another gentleman in white scrubs entering the room. In age, he looked close to her Dadaji. In gait, closer to Aron.


    ¡°Hello, young lady. I am Dr. Walia.¡± He shook her hand vigorously, showing her his ID. She hadn¡¯t seen him around before, but the others seem to know him well.


    ¡°I am afraid Dr. Reddy has been detained otherwise. So I¡¯ll supervise this surgery today. I hope you don¡¯t mind?¡±


    She looked astounded, then relief flooded her. Not at all. She did not mind at all!


    *****


    It began. In front of her was Darsh lying on the operating table. Around her were the same nurses and attendants that were there previously. The difference was just that Ashish wasn¡¯t there. And by God, it was such a weight off her mind.


    On one side was Dr. Walia, watching as if he was in a movie theatre and not in an operation theatre.


    ¡°Remember, young lady. This is not just a test of your skill. It¡¯s a test of your judgment. You must make decisions that are right for the patient, and not what you want to be right for them.¡±


    Was it a warning? She didn¡¯t know, but she nodded and got on. Calmly, she explained to the patient what she was about to do, then signaled the anaesthetician to proceed.


    *****


    It took her two hours to clean the leg ¨C to remove the bad tissue and the pus. She put a rod in for extra support to the bone, making sure the nerves and tendons were undisturbed. Last came the stitches and she was a pro at them. Once finished, it looked good as new.


    ¡°I thought you were supposed to amputate it.¡± Dr. Walia said in the end, his face showing no other emotion but curiosity. She swallowed.


    ¡°I thought I was supposed to do what was right for the patient. And I think this leg still has life in it.¡±


    ***** *****

 Chapter 72. The Truth, The Lies And Everything In-Between

    Apparently, Dr. Walia was a founding member of the Kochi Hospital. Apparently, he was also a friend of Sonal''s dad. And apparently, they both had decided it was right to leave the decision to the discretion of the attending surgeon, who, in this case, was Dr. Aditi Sharma.


    All they had to do was remove Dr. Reddy''s unnecessary presence, which they achieved by sending him off to a conference. In the end, Aditi got to decide what was right for the patient, and accordingly, she received her final grades.


    That was two months ago. Aditi had passed her exam with flying colors and was now a qualified surgeon. Dr. Walia was quite impressed with this student, not just by her skill, but her temperament and conviction.


    "Can you imagine?" Aditi was chuffed. "I was sick with worry that day, but enter Dr. Walia and everything fell into place. It was such a stroke of luck that Ashish was called away for a conference."


    "Yes." Darsh kept his smile as his eyes darted to Zorawar. The man too had a twinkle in his eye. It had taken them some clever planning to make it look ''natural'' but in the end, things did end to everybody''s satisfaction.


    The ''conference'' Aditi was talking about was in truth a disciplinary hearing. The night before the surgery, someone had reported on Ashish Reddy, sending the hospital authorities a thick folder of all his misdeeds. Ashish was suspended for three months and was awaiting a hearing as of now. Needless to say, Dr. Walia was grateful. He had offered to supervise the surgery himself and made sure the student was assessed based on her merit.


    Darsh watched fondly as she bounced around finishing all the chores. It was a lazy Sunday morning. They had just finished breakfast. Neev played with his toys, and Zorawar sat in a corner shelling peas(!). He smiled as he flexed his leg. It was improving drastically. Within the month of the surgery, he was up on his feet and a few more will see him walking normally. There might be a slight limp sometimes when he overstressed it, but otherwise, it would be healed completely.


    It was all due to this woman, who was busy at the moment tidying the mess made by their toddler. Her clothes were covered with dried food from Neev''s breakfast. The oil from the massage she gave his leg this morning had splotched her clothes. Her hair was piled up in a messy bun that she hadn''t had time to comb since she got up.


    "Neev, come on baby. It''s bath time!" Aditi called as she finished picking the last of the toys. Neev promptly ran away to hide under his bed.


    "Let me give him a bath today." Darsh chuckled and got up. "You get ready. We''ll go out somewhere."


    "Are you sure?" She gave his leg a suspicious look, her face immediately transforming to a professional assessing their handiwork. Darsh sighed.


    "You know you insist on treating me like an invalid, but I am perfectly fine. I have a beautiful personal attendant who takes care of me twenty-four cross-seven. She loves me so much, she works, cleans, cooks, and takes care of a toddler while I sit here doing nothing. Don''t you think it''s time for us to reverse the roles a bit?"


    "Not yet." She shrugged his protests away. "You haven''t recovered yet. All you are allowed is walking and light exercise. The rest I''ll take care of."


    And who will take care of you? He wanted to ask but couldn''t. In the last two months, he had gotten a fair idea about how she lived here. It was a small two-bed house, within commutable distance from Kochi Hospital. Nearby was a cr¨¨che and a Montessori school. Gomathi Amma, the lady who looked after Neev lived two doors away. A grocery store nearby delivered fresh milk, bread, and green veg right to your doorstep. What more could you ask for?


    In his opinion, it was a crowded, obscure, frankly dangerous place for any woman to live alone, but Aditi didn''t think so. The benefits far outweighed any risks, who in their right mind would let go of such a convenient place?


    His hackles raised every time he remembered that conversation. He knew why she didn''t live in a better area. She could not afford it. In the last three years, she hadn''t once used her credit card, nor accessed her bank account. It was so he could not trace her. Such was the ferocity of her feelings, she didn''t mind suffering herself, yet she had waited for him to come to her.


    His head hung in shame. Getting up, he marched to the quiet backyard. This was his favorite place to brood nowadays. The sun was warm on his face, and the shade of the coconut trees was soothing, yet thoughts clamored his head, making him dizzy.


    A few minutes passed, or maybe an hour. He heard a footstep behind him.


    "What are you doing alone here?"


    He turned to find her standing behind him, wiping her hands on a towel. Not much of an heiress she was at this moment. Her face was red with heat. Her clothes stuck to her soft skin, wet from Neev''s bath and sweat. His eyes traced the edge where the curve of her breast ran along to lose itself in a slim waist. A bolt of lightning ripped across his body, right from the tip of his toes to the edge of his muddled brain.


    "Nothing," he shivered. "I was just... thinking."


    She narrowed her eyes. "You don''t look right. Let me get you a drink. It''s so hot here."


    She scurried to the sideboard to pour him a glass of water. Transfixed, he watched her. How lovely she looked, how...womanly. Motherhood had softened her edges; filled her in ways he hadn''t thought possible. How he craved to trace those curves, but she wouldn''t let him. Apparently, he was too weak yet to try anything funny.


    He shook his head in irritation. "I''m fine. You have a drink. You look like you need it."


    "Are you okay? You are so quiet this morning. Is anything the matter?"


    "It''s just the heat." He grunted and looked away. Something antsy was crawling up his nerves, he didn''t know if it was the heat or his irritable thoughts. It did not help that she came closer to touch his cheek.


    "Darsh? Are you angry? Did I say something..."


    Scalded, he took a step back. "Where''s Neev? Is his bath done?"


    "Yes," she looked surprised. "He went out with Zorawar. But..."


    "And cooking? All done?"


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    "Yes, but.."


    "What about groceries? Is everything we need here? My medicines? Do you need to buy anything?"


    "We have everything." She sighed and crossed her arms. Her face had changed, having gauged the mood he was in. "Now, may I know what''s wrong? Why are you so snappy? Is it because I didn''t let you bathe Neev? I only did it as you are not recovered yet. Neev can be a bit handful and the bathroom is a bit slippery. I''ll give it a scrub tomorrow and then you can bathe him."


    He stared at her, his head pounding. He didn''t know if he was angry at her or himself or the situation she insisted to put herself in despite claiming everything was okay. Was his addled brain just winding him up? Was it the heat or the effect of those drugs she insisted he took every day?


    "Darsh? Say something. Are you..."


    "Are you not tired of being a show-off?"


    She looked dumb-struck. "What?"


    "I asked, Aditi, are you not tired of being a show-off? Because if that is your point, I get it completely. I know I have been an asshole to leave you alone to suffer by yourself. I have been a bad father, not caring for my child. I get it you raised him all alone, living in this hovel, with no help, no means to support yourself except for some jewelry that you sell to make ends meet. I get it completely that I have been unfair. I just want to know how long this is going to go on. How long are you going to rub it in, how long before we leave this place and go back home, which for some reason, I don''t see you wanting to do at all."


    The bile of his heart gushed out in a wave. His brain cleared a bit and he felt much better. It took him a moment though to process what he''d said. Until then it was too late.


    *****


    The day passed silently. In the evening they all went to the beach. It was a promise they had made to Neev and could not break, but otherwise, it was anything but a family picnic.


    Zorawar watched them suffering. Sometimes he played with Neev, sometimes he sat with Darsh. Sometimes he sat with Aditi, none of them in the same place at the same time.


    "I don''t get it," he said to Darsh after hearing the tale. "Why would you say that? You yourself know how Aditi Bitiya is. How could you accuse her of such a thing?"


    "I know." Darsh sat on the sand, his eyes on Aditi playing with Neev. He ran to catch the waves. She ran behind him but let him have his play. "It was stupid. I don''t know what came over me. I guess it''s the heat. I miss Palampur. I am just used to being busy. This inaction is eating me up."


    Inaction! Zorawar gave him a knowing look. "I get the frustration, but remember you are unwell. You haven''t recovered yet. The inaction you are talking about is not work but there was no point taking it out on your wife. She only means well. She is a doctor and knows what''s best."


    Yeah, maybe. Darsh colored. He didn''t know when he had come to trust this man, but he was glad he did. Zorawar was the unlikeliest friend he had found. Without him, the last three years were impossible.


    "So now what?"


    Zorawar sighed. "Now we wait and watch and pray she doesn''t hand you divorce papers a second time."


    "We are already divorced." Darsh reminded gloomily. Zorawar snorted.


    "Yeah. But she might just give them again to get rid of you one final time. Who needs a horny, lame-duck moron to babysit when they have better things to do? Mind you, she might just kick you out of her house. I would do the same if I was in her place."


    Darsh grimaced. "You are such a sunshine."


    "I know right?" Zorawar shrugged.


    *****


    Sometime later, they had swapped places. Darsh joined Neev in the water, and Aditi left there promptly to sit on the sand. Zorawar stayed in his place watching the exchange. They were like two bulls raging for a fight. He was the only buffer in between and he did not relish the place.


    "You have become quite chummy," Aditi commented dryly as he passed her a drink. "I can''t believe you are the same man who hated him before."


    "People do come close after spending difficult times together. The last three years were testing. We had to support each other, or everything would have been lost." Zorawar replied calmly. "And about hating - I know what you are referring to, but I can explain it. It wasn''t me who sent you that folder on your wedding day."


    "Then who did?" she raised a quizzical eyebrow. He wet his lips.


    "It would have been me had I found it in time. I was angry with Darsh Sir for snooping on us about the bridge incident. It was the first time ever I got a lashing from Bade Malik and I was boiling. That night, I went to the Hunter''s Cottage to find proof against Darsh Sir. I looked and looked but didn''t find anything. The reason of course was that someone had already searched before me. It was that person who sent you the folder, not me."


    She frowned. "Who?"


    "The one who handed it to you. Mohit baba. I don''t know why he chose that time. He had had the folder for two days by then. Maybe he wanted just to spoil your marriage, not stop it. After all, Vivaan Raisingh was out of the race by then."


    Aditi sat there, clenching, and unclenching her fists. The evening was cool, yet her face was blotchy with rage. On the horizon, were two people chasing each other in the water. Darsh stopped in the middle to throw her a glance. Her rage boiled, as a hot tear rolled down her cheek.


    "So Mohit is an A-grade scoundrel, but that does not mean Darsh is blameless. He caused Jeevan Chacha''s accident. Abdul saw him talking on the phone that day in Rajpur Hospital."


    "Umm...about that. Abdul didn''t see anything."


    Aditi gritted her teeth. "Abdul said he saw a man in a white t-shirt and blue jeans on the day of Jeevan Chacha''s accident. He spoke to someone on the phone asking them to bugger off. He was unhappy as it was supposed to be a small accident, but they had ended up hurting Jeevan Chacha quite badly."


    Zorawar cleared his throat. "I am coming to that. As I said, Abdul didn''t see anyone, nor did he hear anything. It was I who forced him to give you that false report. You see, I was quite disappointed at not finding anything in the hut. So I thought I''d make up something against Darsh Sir."


    She looked flabbergasted. "So you made Abdul lie to me?"


    Zorawar looked red-faced. "Yes. It was not difficult. People fear me, they do anything I ask of them. And I wanted to warn you against Darsh Sir. It was only a day before your marriage and I hoped you''d call it off if you hear something as nasty as that."


    For the next few minutes, she fell silent. The sun was sinking now the two shadows looked alluring. The little boy, her Neev, laughing, running around, and splashing water. And the man - a tall, well-built, handsome stranger. He had filled up in the last two months. His health was nearly back, but at this moment he looked no more than a shadow.


    "He tried to kill me." The words escaped her clenched lips and she stared defiantly. "That day, at the racecourse, when I was checking on Grandpa Raisingh''s horses. He used a laser gun to unsettle the horses. I could have died."


    Zorawar shook his head. "It was not him. He did watch you from the thicket, but it was Mohit Baba''s doing. Apparently, he was just testing his laser for fun. Had it harmed you in any way, he would not have minded. Darsh sir did not mean to save you then, but it was not his plan to harm you either."


    She stood up with a jerk, shrugging the sand off her dress. She had had enough.


    "And did he ask you to say all this to me? How much did he pay you for this? I can''t believe I am saying this to you, Zorawar, but you have disappointed me today."


    "I am not lying, nor has anyone paid me anything. You know me better than that." Zorawar stood up calmly. "It was only after Darsh''s Sir''s accident that we came to know about this. We investigated and found Mohit Baba was involved in all these things. There are other matters - the wrongdoings at the site, instigating people against Darsh Sir. Believe me, the list is long."


    "I can''t. Mohit was never that kind of a person. What is the guarantee you are not making this up now?"


    "You know I am not. I have been loyal to your family, and have served your grandfather, your father, and then you. I have your best interests at heart." Zorawar sighed. "Believe me, once you reach Palampur, you will know the truth yourself. You will have new troubles waiting for you, and the only person who can get you through it is Darsh Sir. You need him."


    "I don''t need him!" She simmered with rage. He shrugged.


    "You do. You need him, he needs you, and we at Palampur need you both. In the last three years, if I have learned anything, it''s what a Godsend Darsh Sir has been for us. Bade Malik had a vision. He knew what was to come and prepared for it. If it was left to Ravi Sir or Mohit Baba, the family would have sunk by now. It''s only Darsh Sir that''s holding it together. So, if you care for your own family, you''d rethink your position and come back to Palampur. Otherwise, everything is lost. Everything, including you and Darsh Sir."


    ***** *****

 Chapter 73. A Man of His Word

    She had to go if she cared for her family, otherwise, she didn''t care enough. It would be her fault if they were ruined. She would be a selfish, irresponsible, and ungrateful brat if she let her family fall into ruins.


    Well, after that she didn''t have much choice. It wasn''t like she never wanted to go to Palampur, but the way it had come about, broke her heart.


    In the next two days, she tidied the house. Disposed of her furniture, whatever little setup of her kitchen. Some of the clothes and Neev''s toys went to charity. The rest she packed; it was barely a couple of bags. There was a third small bag, containing Darsh''s reports. Most of them confirmed he was recovering well, yet her concern was the latest blood report. She hadn''t told him as she didn¡¯t want to worry him. She herself wanted to confirm what it was, but now it would have to wait. Hastily, she emailed a query to the manufacturer, then shut her laptop. Darsh looked askance.


    "Aditi Please. We can stay here longer if you want..."


    ¡°No thanks,¡± she gave a curt smile. ¡°I think my purpose of staying here is achieved as you got it so well. Let''s go. I don''t want to stay here a minute longer."


    "Aditi.."


    "There''s one more thing." She cut him short. "For the last three years, the way I lived in Kochi, it was not to make a point. I made an honest living, the way I thought was best for me and my child. Yes, I was alone and lonely. I lived in that crowded area to remind me the world wasn¡¯t an empty place devoid of honest people. Despite that, I wasn¡¯t happy. I suffered. It was not because of the place or lack of money. It was because I missed you."


    Two days later, they reached Palampur. It was a balmy mid-June morning. Palampur was still sleepy, yet it woke up fast enough to the news of their arrival. People gathered at the station to welcome, not just her but Darsh too. She was surprised to see the happiness in their faces. It reminded her of the old times when her father was alive. People respected him. Loved him.


    She arrived home to find the servants had already prepared her room. Not only hers but Neev''s too. It was her old room before her parents died, they had redecorated it to suit a little boy, rather than a little girl. It looked beautiful, just as she¡¯d thought for her baby.


    "Darsh Sir called. He said you would like this room for Neev Baba."


    She gave a tight smile. Yeah. He would know. He knew so many things about her that she didn¡¯t know herself. All her flaws, all her vices, all the times she was pretending. Maybe the only time he did not recognize her was when she was telling the truth.


    She moved on to her own room. It was left untouched. Everything was as it was before. Three years had not changed it a whit. She looked for a trace of a man''s items, a scent of the familiar aftershave, a part of the closet taken away to clutter with his stuff, but she did not find any.


    "Darsh Sir does not live here." The maid supplied, readily. "He shifted to the downstairs guest room after you left. Then after his accident, he continued there as he couldn''t climb the stairs." The information was welcome, but she wasn''t exactly pleased with it. At least it confirmed they won''t be sharing the same room or the same bed. Now that made her irritated, not for any other reason but that he was her patient and she needed to keep an eye on him.


    Yes, in the last couple of days, she had failed in that job. She hadn''t massaged his leg, nor had she checked on his medication. She didn''t need to ''show off'' when he could clearly see through her every move. Her eyes filled every time she remembered his words. She didn''t know she appeared so conceited when all she was trying was to take care of him.


    She went to see Dadaji. He was ecstatic to see Neev. Intermittently, he kept calling her Meera and asked for his Susheel. Sometimes he called her Aditi and told her not to fight with Darsh. Yet he looked happy and to her surprise, healthy. She had not expected him to last this long but now that he had, she knew who was to be credited for this miracle.


    "It''s time for your tablet, Babuji," Darsh helped the old man sit up to feed him the medicine. Her Dadaji''s face shone with happiness.


    "Susheel. You came back! Where were you for so long? I missed you, my boy. No one in the house talks to me any longer."


    "I''m sorry Babuji. I went to get Meera back and look, she fixed my leg, too."


    Dadaji looked confused as his eyes darted to his leg, then his face, then to her. A minute later, his expression cleared.


    "You are making fun of this old man, Darsh. I''m glad your leg is recovered. And good that Aditi is back. Now please don''t fight again. I get weary of your fights."


    He fell asleep in a few minutes. She straightened his covers and got up.


    "Aditi, wait. I have something to say."


    "Not here Darsh. Not now."


    "Please, Aditi. It must be here. I know I have spoiled everything but please believe me I don''t know what came over me. Those drugs...that medicine... it makes my brain go funny. I cannot control it. Sometimes I am just not myself. Please forgive me."


    She frowned and gave him head-to-toe. He looked well enough, but she wondered if this was something else. The literature on the new drug didn''t say anything about its psychological effects. She hoped her email gets an answer soon. It was important to know how the trials were going, and if there was anything new added to the list of side effects. And meanwhile, she needed to keep this man on his toes. Too long had she suffered his whims, given into his charms, and trusted him blindly. Not anymore. He may have redeemed himself in the eyes of everyone but in her case, he¡¯d always fallen short by a whisker.


    "Tomorrow, we visit the hospital. Then the resort, then the bottling plant. I want to see all accounts, documents, ledgers - everything there is to see. Send for Uncle Dawar too. I want to have a word with him. <em style="box-sizing: border-box">Then we will talk about us, as that''s the last thing on my mind."


    His face fell. She straightened her back and walked out.


    *****


    It did not go as she planned. It rained overnight and the next morning Darsh got called away as there was an incident at one of the sites. Aditi watched as he rushed without a thought. Eros was dead, and he had to use a new horse. Her heart came to her throat as the beast skittered under the new rider. Luckily, he was able to get a grip on it, then two of Zorawar''s men joined him in his expedition.


    She watched in surprise as the three men chattered and laughed as they rode away. It was evident Zorawar was not the only friend Darsh had made. There were more in Palampur who''d fallen under his spell.


    "He is so friendly, isn''t he? Not many can resist his charms."


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    She turned to see Nehal on the porch steps. The girl looked as usual, perfectly made up, yet utterly repulsive.


    "And what would you know of his charms?"


    Nehal laughed. "Who would know but me? We have been quite close these past years. With you gone, Darsh was quite lonely. He needed someone to lean on, especially after his accident."


    "And he chose you to lean on?" Aditi curled her lip. Nehal smiled.


    "We chose each other. When no one else wants you, what choice do you have but to use what''s available? I must say it was quite pleasurable while it lasted. But now that you are back..." She grimaced. "Let me know if you are no longer interested. I don''t mind your used goods."


    Her plans went a bit pear-shaped after that. The next she knew she had slapped Nehal hard across the face. The girl fell to the ground in shock and agony. Mahek looked at her in revulsion, anger pulsating through her veins.


    ¡°This is the last time you take Darsh¡¯s name with your filthy mouth, you understand? He is mine. You will respect him, keep your vile eyes off him, or¡­¡±


    ¡°Or what, you stupid bi*ch? You can threaten all you like but you can¡¯t do anything!¡±


    ¡°Oh, I can, Nehal," Aditi sneered. "Watch me.¡±


    She whipped out her phone and called Uncle Dawar. He was to find the details of one Mansukh Advani. That was the name she remembered Mohit had mentioned - the match Mansi Chachi found for her precious daughter. That time, it was in return for a payment. Now she was willing to give her spoiled cousin away for free.


    *****


    Luckily, she did not have to wait for long. An hour later, Uncle Dawar came back with the news. Mansukh Advani was still available and interested. Sitting at the breakfast table, Aditi buttered her toast as she broke the news to her uncle¡¯s family. As expected, Ravi and Mansi were speechless. It was a good prospect if they received money for their daughter, but without it, they did not see the point. Aditi could understand their dilemma, but who in their right mind will pay for spoiled goods?


    "How dare you!" Nehal screeched, burning with rage. "I won''t marry that old drunkard. You would pay for this. You won''t be able to live with this."


    Aditi smiled. "You are lucky at least <em style="box-sizing: border-box">someone is willing to marry you. I could kick you out this instant and ask Zorawar to hound you to the border of Palampur. Be grateful that I am willing to shell out money for your marriage, otherwise, you are no better than the tramps loitering at Rajpur station."


    Nehal seethed. "You can insult me however you want but you won¡¯t be able to get rid of me so easily. I won''t leave. I have as much right to be here as you!"


    "No, you don¡¯t,¡± Aditi said calmly. "You don¡¯t have any right. You are neither a Sharma nor you are my cousin." She glanced at her uncle and aunt. Mansi Chachi''s face was white. Ravi Chachu looked confused.


    ¡°What did you say? Nehal is not a Sharma?¡±


    ¡°I am sorry if it hurts, Chachu, but I have had enough. Nehal is not your daughter. She is an illegitimate child of a man I''d rather not name. She must leave.¡±


    ¡°Says who?¡± Mohit''s cold voice startled her. Aditi paled. It was three years to this day that she had seen or even talked to him. Her heart ached. It was hard to believe this was the brother she trusted. He only had just one sister all along and it was not her. ¡°Leave my sister alone. I am the son of this house and I say nobody has the right to oust my sister.¡±


    ¡°Then you can go with her too. This house is for Sharmas only."


    The bickering increased. Mohit argued, and Nehal raged, but her uncle and aunt were quiet. Mansi Chachi looked scared, yet eyed her husband shrewdly. Ravi Chachu seemed to be rewinding his past.


    ¡°What proof do you have?¡±


    Oh, there was plenty of proof. They all fell silent when Aditi produced an envelope from Dadaji¡¯s study. Inside were the pictures of Mansi Chachi''s wanton ways The face of Grandpa Raisingh mocked them, daring them to deny his truth.


    Aditi smiled. Talking to Zorawar had proved quite useful. She understood the value of secrets. <em style="box-sizing: border-box">Other people''s secrets, that is, that you can use to get what you want. Your own secrets, you keep hidden, buried in the bowels of forgotten past. Remembering them was treacherous, it might just ruin you in the process.


    "You have a day to pack your bag, Nehal. I do not want to see you here again. Your family can go with you for all I care. It would be good riddance, once and for all."


    "I am not going anywhere." Ravi Chachu finally broke from his silence, glaring at his wife and daughter. From his face, it looked like his long-standing suspicions were confirmed. "But feel free to send these two away. I don''t want to see them again."


    It was the first time Nehal looked scared. She ran to her father, but he shrugged her off to walk away. Mansi Chachi sighed and turned to her. Aditi realized she still had one last card to play.


    "That is all well and good dear, but you cannot make us leave. You see, we have a secret that can get you in trouble. We can report you for Vivaan''s accident. Nehal saw what you did the night of your engagement."


    Aditi stared. The night of her engagement. How could she forget? She had lured Vivaan to that bridge. He was drunk. She had taken advantage and triggered him. He pounced on her, and she pushed him into the river, causing him lifelong damage. He was still in the hospital, and Grandpa Raisingh was still on the lookout to punish his culprit.


    And it seemed Nehal had seen all that. She set her fork down, trying to control her shaking fingers. Mansi smiled.


    "Dalpat Raisingh is not a forgiving man, Aditi. He will drag you to court, humiliate you and send you to prison. Your own sister testifying against you will cause a scandal. Think where it will take you if this ever goes to court. And in the meanwhile, I and my daughter remain here."


    ****


    It should never go to court. It will ruin everything. Her reputation, her family''s reputation. Her child would be left without a mother if she was sent to prison. And Darsh...what will he do? Is this the kind of trouble Zorawar warned her about? These were not normal problems. How was she ever going to get out of this alone?


    The day went quietly. She went to visit the new hospital. Zorawar showed her off proudly. Meera Sharma Charitable Hospital, the big shiny chrome letters read on the front. There was a side wing too. There it read of a specialty clinic.


    Aditi frowned. "I thought it was supposed to be the other way round? The main hospital was supposed to be a super-specialty and the side wing for charity?"


    "Darsh Sir decided it was better this way. The hospital is super-specialty anyway. They treat the locals for free and richer clientele don''t mind paying, it''s a win-win. Moreover, he said it was what you wanted in the first place, so that was the final deciding factor."


    She pinched her lips. It was everything she had dreamed of and more. It was better planned, better equipped, and better placed to sustain without external funding. It looked exactly like the little model he''d shown in the cottage years ago. That was the day she had decided he was the man for her.


    Her eyes prickled. Yes, he had proved himself a man of his word. The promises he had made, he had kept them all. There was just one left, but then he had never really made that promise.


    ¡°I love you.¡± She had told him that night in the Hunter¡¯s Cottage, eyes shining with new love.


    ¡°Good for you.¡± He had said, smiling his mysterious smile.


    Her head hurt by the time she reached home. It was evening. Darsh wasn''t back. She tucked Neev in, checked on Dadaji, then sat in her bed with her phone. There was a new email. It was in response to her query on the effects of the drug.


    There were new findings. The trials reported some patients had abnormal hormonal imbalances. Some complained of drowsiness and light-headedness. Some suffered from anxiety, increased heart rate, and stressful outbursts. One thing that was common was an increased adrenaline level. Shaky legs, loss of control, and increased testosterone levels.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 74. A Drug Called Love

    It was nearly midnight when Darsh finally arrived. She watched from the porch as he handed his horse to a waiting groom. As expected, he looked knackered. His hair was messed up from the long day and his clothes were wet from the unexpected rain they had that evening. His face had a grey sheen that she hadn''t seen on him in the past two months.


    "Let me help!" She rushed forward as he stumbled while climbing up the steps. He looked surprised.


    "I am fine. I can manage."


    She helped him anyway. Holding his arm, she led him to his room - to the smallest guestroom at the end of a long corridor. Her eyes darted around as they entered. The furniture was basic; the floor was cold and uncarpeted. In a corner stood a small cabinet full of innumerable medicines. Next to it was a pair of crutches, handy, in case the patient needed them. For a moment, she stilled. Talk about making a point. After this, she won''t be able to look him in the eye.


    "I''ll get you something to eat. You take a shower and change." She turned the other way to avoid showing him her face. He moved ever so slightly to block her way.


    "Stay, please. We need to talk."


    What did he need to talk about? It was past midnight. Didn''t he want to rest? She looked at his still-damp clothes. He must be so cold in them, but he didn''t seem to notice.


    "Zorawar told me what happened today - about Mansi Chachi''s threat. You don''t have to worry. We''ll find a way."


    "Forget it." She shook her head. "Nehal saw us that night on the bridge. There''s not much we can do about it."


    He exhaled and pursed his lips. "About the other thing that Nehal said...believe me, it''s not true. There was nothing between us. I can never think of anyone else that way."


    Her heart stilled as their eyes met. In the dim yellow of the bedroom lamp, the silence thickened around them, forming a cozy cocoon. It was soothing, lulling like an unforeseen dream. "You don''t need to explain. I know you''ll never do it."


    "Do you?" His face stayed grave. "Then you will also know there''s only one woman of whom I can think that way."


    A warm glow flushed her cheeks. Yes, she knew it, and she felt the same for him. Yet it was a puzzle why they always landed in peculiar situations. Maybe it was Karma, or maybe fate. Like two planets orbiting the sun, they revolved with each other, unable to touch, unable to break free.


    "I''ll go get some food..." She turned to the door but stopped just short of ramming into him. She hadn''t seen him squaring himself outright, pulling himself to his full length. Not for the first time, she noticed his size. He was like a wall of black granite - tall, dark, and broody¨Cbeautiful, but utterly unassailable.


    "You didn''t answer my question."


    "What question?"


    "My question about what you feel for me and how I feel for you. I am tired of being in constant limbo, Aditi. I think it''s time we sorted it out."


    He stepped closer, his arms gently wrapping around her to pull her in. It was the gentlest of the touch like a veil of silk had enveloped her. A wave of sweet shivers rippled down her body. He smiled. "Not that there is not much to sort, I see, but I think it''s better to clear the air."


    "Umm...maybe later." She spluttered, changing her mind in an instant. Clearing the air was a good idea, but not now. He was under the influence of that drug. He needed to clear his head. She needed him to have a clear head before they went any further. "We''ll talk when you are better. Let me get you some food first."


    "I don''t want food, Aditi." He looked irritated. "I want something else. And I want it now. It''s already too late." He tightened his grip to pull her close. Through the thin cotton of her dress, his hard muscles poked into her, sending tiny balls of electricity crackling through her nerves. It must be some kind of chemical reaction that caused such havoc, some phenomenon that connects the nerves, the skin, and the brain to the core of your body. A little jolt there and the entire system comes crashing down.


    She tried to remember it from her books but did not recall anything. The theory was theory and practical was practical, her professors used to say. You never know how it is until you actually experience it.


    "It''s... it''s the drug." She spluttered, catching her breath. He frowned.


    "What drug?"


    "The drug. The new drug. You know it''s still under trial. They now have a new list of side effects, and it says..."


    "What does it say?" He tilted his head, nuzzling into her hair. She heated from the root of her hair to the tip of her toes.


    "It says what you are experiencing is due to hormonal imbalance."


    "Hormonal imbalance?"


    "Yes. The drug increases adrenaline, which is a stress hormone. It causes anxiety and light-headedness. You said your brain goes funny, right? It''s all because of the drug."


    "Hmm." He pulled back a little, and she was able to breathe. He looked thoughtful, but his grip didn''t slacken. "I feel light-headed, but that''s about it. I am not stressed or anxious. And it''s not all like how you say. This is different."


    Different? What did he mean? She was annoyed. She didn''t like to be second-guessed. She was the doctor here, and he was the patient. Surely, she was supposed to know better?


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    "The drug causes over-excited ness." She squirmed, pressing her hands on his shoulders to push him away. Not that it worked, but he let her move an inch. "Do you feel...excited? Angry? Frustrated? It''s all because of the drug. But you don''t have to worry. We''ll fix it."


    "It''s excitement alright," His eyes sparkled. "But I won''t call it just excitement. This is something more. And it''s...beautiful!" He dipped his head to breathe into her hair, his lips tracing the tender skin of her neck. It took her two seconds to lose the use of her legs. Her core throbbed angrily, rebelling against her brain. Shut up, it seemed to scream. Shut the f*ck up and let us take over!


    She shook her head. It felt like she was the one on adrenaline. The way her heart raced testified to that. He, on the other hand, was just excited. It was the best benefit the drug could offer.


    Her legs felt like jelly as she started to slide to the ground in a haphazard mess. He tightened his grip to pull her up.


    "Stand straight and stop talking about that silly drug. Let me tell you how it is - I love you. I have always loved you, right from the moment I saw you at the racecourse. It took me so long to realize, but now that I have..." he said through mouthfuls of her skin as his teeth grazed her skin. Her body was on the verge of exploding, but her brain still held on to a last shred of sanity.


    "Darsh, wait. Not now. Not like this. Please."


    He frowned and pulled back. She swallowed. "Please. Let me finish. Whatever these sudden emotions you are experiencing, it''s the side effect of the drug. It''s teh adrenaline and testosterone, and whatnot. It will wear off in a few days. I am going to reduce your dosage. From tomorrow, you''ll take two pills instead of the regular three. Then one week later we''ll reduce to a single. Then after that, we''ll change to a new medicine, then this problem will be over. Your leg is nearly healed, and you have regained your weight, too. It''s just this funny feeling now. We''ll handle it properly, and it will be all sorted. Now let me get you something to eat. You go and freshen up..."


    Before she could finish, his mouth was on hers. The kiss was neither punishing nor demanding, but it knocked her out of her doctor mode. Her skin melted at his touch as heat coursed through her veins.  Her core that was throbbing so patiently exploded with volcanic pressure.


    "Darsh..!!"


    He picked her up to push her to the bed. It creaked pathetically as their combined weight hit the wooden frame.


    She snapped open her dozy eyes. This... needed to stop. There were other, more important matters to concern, like his addled brain, the effects of that drug. She had used the drug on him without understanding the effects. It was her job to pull him out of this stupor.


    "Darsh listen..."


    "No. You listen to me, Aditi Sharma. Whatever this crazy theory about the drug...it may be true, but it''s not the complete truth. I have felt like this even before I started that drug. These were my exact feelings when we met the first time. It has never changed. I have always wanted you. It''s nothing to do with the drug."


    Oh. She fell silent. He took the opportunity to get rid of his clothes, then peeled her clothes away one by one. His eyes were so focussed on the task, she watched him mesmerized.


    He was beautiful. The way his lustrous hair curled and fell on his forehead was beautiful. The way his dark eye watched her with naked desire was utterly beautiful. The way his muscled shoulders flexed and rippled as he gathered her in his arms was truly, breathtakingly beautiful.


    "And now we begin." He smiled as he aligned himself with her. The weight of his body so flush against hers set her off like fire. These were the last moments. Last before she...


    "But¡­you are not well! You are weak. You need rest."


    Exasperated, he looked up. "Listen, Miss Sharma. At this moment, I want my wife, not my doctor. I''ll see my doctor in the morning if I need to, but right now, she can bugger off for all I care."


    He dipped his head as his body covered hers. His lips tasted hers and his hands caressed her curves. She suppressed a moan, trying to think of one last feeble excuse.


    "We... we are not married. What if..."


    ¡°I knew you would say this!¡± He sighed. "I have told you before, and I''ll say it again - no child of mine will be born a bastard. What broke with a signature, we''ll fix it with another. But before then, you owe me a wedding night, and a honeymoon, not to mention the penalty for feeding me that blasted drug. So stop stalling and get ready. The more you delay, the harder will it be."


    She didn''t remember much after that. The frantic coupling that followed erased all her thoughts. The night lived up to the promise of a storm, only this storm raged inside, between the sheets, between their frenzied bodies. His heart drummed in her ears as his fervor trespassed into her body to claim it as his own. His roaming hands memorized her every curve. His mouth cherished her as if in prayer. In the end, she was delirious with ecstasy. She never knew physical love could be so fulfilling. As was his habit, he took all he could, yet gave much more. She didn''t know how to hold it in her two hands, neither in heart nor in her soul.


    Finally, she just let go. You cannot contain a storm. All you can do is fly with it and let it take its course. Trust it with your life and pray that it will land you somewhere safe. Only in this case, she knew she was in safe hands.


    In the morning when she looked out of her window, the land was drenched in dew. It had rained all night. Not the storm that the blustery evening had promised, but a gentle, soothing rain, the kind that nurtures and sows its seed. Plumes of soft white mist rose through the bushes, promising new blooms in the summer. Smiling, she returned to the bed. Darsh was in a deep sleep. His chest rose and fell as she listened to the music of his heart. Finally, he was hers and she was his. All wounds were drained, and all souls were healed, and they were ready for a new life.


    *****


    New life, did she say? It was not to be. Aditi left the guestroom to climb up the stairs to check on Neev. It was maybe seven in the morning. Not just Darsh, but the whole house was still asleep.


    She pushed open Neev''s door. As expected, he was fast asleep, his tiny body tucked under the soft quilt she had covered him with the previous night. The room looked exactly the same except for one detail. Nehal sat next to Neev breathing in his scent.


    Her one hand was on his chest, the other caressing his hair. Her eyes had a hunger that Aditi had only seen once before.


    "Get off my baby!" She screamed as she raced in to push the girl away. Nehal got up, smiling her poisonous smile.


    "I just came to check on him. You were...busy the whole night. I thought he would be scared if he woke up."


    "You bit*h! How dare you touch my child! Where''s the nanny? Where ..."


    "Oh, I sent her away." Nehal shrugged. "After all, I am the aunt. I have more right to Neev than anyone else, just as I have every right to whatever you have, whether you like it or not."


    Two hours later, she was still in shock. Darsh paced the room, anger radiating from him like heat waves. She sat stunned, stroking Neev''s head, who was luckily still in a deep sleep.


    "I must leave this place. This is not going to end here. I can''t endanger Neev." She said as a tear rolled her eye. Darsh came to stand by her.


    "I can fix this if you let me."


    Her brow furrowed with suspicion, yet hope. "How?"


    "I have my own ways.¡± He shrugged. ¡°It wasn''t for nothing that Dadaji trusted me. Just promise you won''t interfere. You won''t come to save your cousins when the time comes."


    Startled, she looked at him. His face was hard, dark with menace. Yes, he had ways, just like Vivaan had; like Mohit had. Even her Dadaji must have had them in his heyday. It was the world of these men. She despised it, but maybe for this once, she had to curb her conscience.


    "What will you do?"


    He leaned in to peck Neev''s cheek and stroked his silken hair. Then pulled her close to kiss her brow.


    "You''ll see."


    ***** *****

 Chapter 75. Saving His World

    For the rest of the day, Aditi stayed with Neev, not letting him out of her sight for even a minute. The new nanny was dismissed as she could not trust anyone so easily controlled by her cousin. Finally, Darsh called Kanta Chachi, which relieved Aditi a little, but she remained anxious.


    "You need to calm down." He pulled her close when she got a moment''s breather from trailing Neev. It was a listless evening, they were in the Study waiting for Dawar who was at this moment, on his way to the Sharma Residence. "Kanta Chachi is here, and we have alerted the rest of the staff. Zorawar too has his men keeping an eye. Nothing will happen to Neev."


    She nodded yet stayed quiet. Her face remained strained, eyes restlessly flicking to the door. "Let me check on Neev again. It¡¯s been ages."


    "You checked on him just minutes ago. And you need to relax. Dawar will be here any minute."


    He hugged her close, running his fingers through her hair. Her body relaxed a bit but the strain in her face did not budge.


    "How are we going to solve this? Whatever we do, they still have the upper hand. If word gets out about the bridge incident, everything will come crashing down. And if the police arrest us... "


    She didn''t finish her sentence, yet he heard it. It was the question he was trying to answer himself. If the police arrested both of them, if Dalpat Raisingh pursued the case and puts them behind bars, what will happen to Neev? He had about a hundred ways to punish the evil cousins. He could use the power of attorney to oust them, or he could get Mohit arrested in his accident case, or he could do both. But ultimately everything came to this. The truth of the bridge hung on them like a sword of Damocles.


    He smiled, not letting his thoughts show on his face. "I said you leave it to me. I have a way to fix this all."


    Luckily Dawar arrived and they got on with the evening¡¯s agenda. They put their signatures on the papers and the marriage was sealed. He did not know whether to celebrate the moment or mourn the circumstances. What should have been the most joyful occasion of their life was tarnished by that ghastly threat.


    His face hardened as he nodded to Dawar to proceed. Dawar pulled out another set of documents.


    "There¡¯s one more thing, Aditi. The last time, when you left Palampur, you left all your mother''s property for your cousins. I think it¡¯s time you reconsider your decision."


    He watched as her lips quivered. She pulled up the papers and signed them without even reading them. In place of the beneficiary, she wrote his name.


    "Put Neev''s name, please," Darsh frowned. "Your mother''s property should go to your child. I¡¯ll have nothing to do with it."


    "You¡¯ll have everything to do with it. It will go to Neev through you. Who better to keep it safe for him but his father?"


    She gave a strained smile, then left the room to check on Neev. He had no argument. He watched as her shapely back retreated behind the door, then turned to the lawyer.


    ¡°That¡¯s quite an accomplishment,¡± Dawar said in a congratulatory tone. Darsh exhaled. Accomplishing something was one thing but safeguarding it was another. It would be all for nothing if couldn¡¯t save what he worked for.


    ¡°So, what do you think? Is there a way to avoid arrest if Nehal decides to report us?¡± He steered the conversation back to the point. Dawar sighed.


    ¡°There¡¯s only one way, and you know what it is. From where I see it, you and Aditi will be in custody at least for two days, that is -  if  Dalpat Raisingh doesn¡¯t arrive in time to ensure you don¡¯t get bail. And once he is here, you know how it will get. You¡¯d be in for a long haul.¡±


    The long haul  was an understatement. The game will get dirty. Ugly. Dangerous. Darsh tapped his fingers on the mahogany desk, then got up, having made a decision.


    The root of the problem was not Nehal or their secret. It was something else. He had to hack that root, only then this problem would be truly resolved.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get anticipatory bail, then. And in the meanwhile, I¡¯ll see what I can do.¡±


    *****


    What he did was leave his wife and son in Palampur to travel to Delhi the next morning. It was some urgent business, he said. He had to see his mother and Vicki as a visit to them was long overdue.


    ¡°But you can¡¯t leave us!¡± Aditi was aghast. ¡°You said you¡¯ll solve this.¡±


    ¡°And I will.¡± He touched her cheek, then planted a peck on her brow. ¡°Believe me, it will all be solved once I am back, but for now I must leave.¡±


    He packed a small bag and left. Later that morning, Aditi sat at the breakfast table, feeding Neev his tiny playful bites but her mind remained occupied.


    ¡°I see your husband has deserted you,¡± Nehal sneered, disdain dripping her face like venom. ¡°What happened? Not everything well in the paradise?¡±


    Aditi ignored her and focused on Neev. The moment he was done, she would get out of this room, but alas, Mohit too joined his sister.


    ¡°I saw the lawyer here yesterday.¡± He said with a honeyed voice. ¡°I know you and your husband are cooking something. All I have to say is that don¡¯t dare to double-cross me. Your secret Is only safe as long as I and my family are safe.¡±


    Aditi flared. ¡°I can say the same. You are only safe here as long as  my  family is safe. And unfortunately for you, it does not include you anymore, so watch out.¡±


    Mohit smiled. ¡°I was never a part of  your  family, Di. You were just a namesake, you still are. Anyway, that is not important. The important thing is - I want my share of the property.¡±


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    "What?"


    "I said, I want my share of the property." Mohit snickered. "I wanted to say this long back but didn¡¯t get a chance. You were away and your husband wasn¡¯t exactly receptive to my requests. But now that you are here¡­"


    She gritted her teeth. ¡°We¡¯ll talk when Darsh is back. Anyway, he has the power of attorney, I cannot do anything.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll talk now, Di. This is an internal Sharma household matter in which an outsider must have no say. And the power of attorney does not matter. I''ll be happy to take over your mother''s property if I can''t have my share of the Sharma property.¡±


    "Never." She went white. Mohit shrugged.


    "Think carefully Di. You are alone here. Anything can happen. There are worse things in the world than being reported for a crime you did not commit, or being eaten alive by rabid dogs."


    The moment Mohit uttered those words, her face cleared. Something clicked in place, a realization, a reckoning that was long overdue. Calmly, she took Neev to her room and locked the door from inside, then called Uncle Shekhawat.


    *****


    Things went rather fast after that. Mohit was arrested for attempting to murder Aditi and Darsh. Zorawar gave his testimony and others at the racecourse readily vouched for the horse incident.


    ?The next in line was Nehal. The charge was life threats to a three-year-old Neev. The nanny testified to the incident adding the way she was discharged from Neev¡¯s room. She could still remember the look on Nehal''s face - it was mad rage, hatred, bordering insanity.


    That became the theme of the charge - Insanity. The news of Nehal¡¯s paternity was widespread by now and people had no trouble believing the worst of a Raisingh child. They were always deranged, always capable of doing the ghastliest things.


    The next day went in peace as Aditi waited for Darsh. On the third day, police arrived at the Sharma residence with a summon.


    ?¡°Your aunt has accused you of Vivian Raisingh¡¯s accident. You must accompany us to the station.¡±


    ******


    It was seven in the evening. Darsh climbed the stairs of Dr. Chaterjee''s Nursing. The place was the same as he remembered from three years ago, but a few things had changed.


    For example, the building was now painted in a sky-blue color than the plain white before. Another change was that Vivaan Raisingh was no longer a resident here. He had part-recovered and moved out of here a year ago.


    Darsh sighed. It had come as a surprise. He had rather counted on Vivaan being here. It would have made things easier for him, but now it was too late.


    "So, what happened? Did you get to meet Dalpat Raisingh?" Karuna asked as he entered Vicki''s room. He was still the same, drawing slow and patient breaths, waiting to be pushed either this way or that.


    "No Ma. I have tried everything, but the man is just ...adamant." Darsh shook his head. That was his plan. He had in his hands, Dalpat Raisingh''s old folder. He wanted to use it again to threaten the man, to make him sign an affidavit that Vivaan''s accident was his own fault and had nothing to do with Aditi. That way, Nehal''s accusation would have proved pointless. But with the man outright refusing to take his bait, his plan had all but flopped.


    "Anyway, I have to return to Palampur. There is an...issue. I''ll sort it out, you don''t have to worry,¡± He rushed to clarify when her face lost its color. ¡°I''ll keep you informed. You take care.¡±


    He bid her farewell and left. Karuna watched him leave, then picked up her phone to dial a number. A minute later a heavy yet tired voice answered the phone.


    "Dalpat Raisingh speaking."


    "Mr. Raisingh, this is Karuna Sachdeva," Karuna said as sweat gathered on her forehead. It had been years since she used that name to identify herself. "We have met once before. You may not remember me; it was years ago. I''d like to see you for some urgent matter."


    "And why should I meet you?" He sounded least interested. Karuna held her breath.


    "Because I was the girl Harish Sachdeva introduced you to in Hotel Blue Lagoon thirty-four years ago. Today my son is thirty-three, and I think he could do with a favor from you."


    *****


    Thirty-four years ago, she had left her parent''s house to elope with the love of her life. She was twenty and he was thirty. Her parents would never have consented to their marriage. Coming to Delhi with Harish Sachdeva was her ticket to freedom. It was the beginning of a new life, a new, happy, and thrilling life free from the domineering presence of her conservative parents.


    The first day, they spent shopping. Harish was so caring and sweet. He took her to places all over Delhi. They saw the Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, and all that was beautiful in Delhi to see. In the evening he took her to a posh hotel. He wanted her to meet his boss.


    That was the first time she met DD Sir. The man was in his early forties, very suave, sophisticated with a rather charming smile. She blushed as they passed remarks on her young age and how beautiful she looked. Soon a drink was passed to her, and she sipped it gratefully, unable to believe this would be her life for the rest of her days.


    It was only later when she found herself alone with DD Sir in a room that she tried to make sense of it. Her head spun, and she realized her drink must have been spiked but by then it was too late.


    Later she had invented the excuse of multiple men to keep Darsh from pursuing revenge, but she very well remembered who was with her in that room that night. It was him and only him. There were no others.


    Sometime later, she passed out. The next morning when she was woken up by the hotel cleaner, DD Sir was gone, and so was Harish Sachdeva.


    "I know you must have forgotten it, and believe me, I too have tried my best to forget," she said stoically as Dalpat Raisingh stood in front of her in the gardens of the Nursing Home. "But that day, when you came to collect Vivaan, I recognized your face. I knew then you were DD Sir."


    His face had a mixed expression - shocked, suspicious, yet smug with delight. "And what do you want of me now? If you wish to blackmail me..."


    "All I am asking of you is to leave Darsh alone. For long has he suffered for his past for no fault of his own. Now let him live his life."


    ***** *****

 Chapter 76. Whats In The Name?

    He traveled through the night and reached Palampur just before dawn. The house was quiet, yet a lamp burned in the upstairs bedroom. He raced up, three steps at a time, and dashed in. As expected, he found Aditi pacing the room restlessly.


    "You are back!" She rushed to him the moment she saw him. He gathered her in his arms.


    "I am sorry. I shouldn''t have left. I didn''t know it will get this bad."


    "It''s ok," she shook her head as her hand rose to touch his cheek. "It was my fault. I had to report Mohit and from there it kind of spiraled out of my hands. But your anticipatory bail helped." Yes, thanks to his foresight, she was not arrested. She had been to the station and back a few times but at least, they had managed to keep her out.


    Pulling her in, he gazed into her eyes. He had to make the most of these moments. She had promised him they would have more time, but it felt like it was not up to them. His task in Delhi had failed. They had hours, maybe days before the police again arrived at their doorstep.


    "Come now. You freshen up and I''ll get you some warm milk." She patted his arm, then tried to move away. He shook his head.


    "No. Let''s...talk. There are so many things I want to say that I should have said before. Let me say them now." He led her to the sofa and sat, hugging her close to his chest. She looked surprised.


    "What things?"


    "Like the time I said I did not love you. When I said you are not my first or second choice, it was all wrong. I did not mean it like that."


    She sighed. "It''s not important. It was so long ago. Why are you still thinking about it?"


    "It is important for me. I must get it out. What I meant at the time was that...you may not be my first or second choice, but you are my last. There won''t be anyone after you."


    Her eyes took a sheen of mist. "Then I too have to say the same. You are my first and the last. There was never anyone else nor it ever would be."


    That much reassurance was enough for him. Pulling her closer he sealed the deal with his lips. The time after that was to cherish for life. There was no past to regret, no future to worry about, just the moments with each other in which to live their life.


    Morning came with the news of Dalpat Raisingh''s arrival. His first visit was to the police station to bail out Nehal. Next, he headed to the Sharma Residence with a team of police officers and lawyers in tow.


    *****


    He arrived as if he owned the place. The servants didn''t dare to stop him. Zorawar''s men stood dumbstruck, looking at each other for a clue as to how to handle this unwanted guest. Standing in the lounge, with a shocked Aditi beside him, Darsh wondered what this was all about. Dalpat Raisingh didn''t just arrive with lawyers and police, behind him were two men carrying large, gift-wrapped boxes and bags.


    "So, where is my grandson?" He roared as he looked around. Darsh stepped forward, stopping the man''s advance a few feet from Aditi.


    "I think you are going senile in your old age Mr. Raisingh. In case you have forgotten, Vivaan is not here. You discharged him a year ago and sent him to the US."


    For a moment, the man stilled. His eyes went over him from head to toe. The look in his eyes was hard, contemptuous, yet ruminating. Then he smiled.


    "I am glad you keep a tab on me, son, I''d expect no less from you. But I am not talking about Vivaan. I am talking about my other grandson. Neev."


    By the time his words made sense, little Neev raced into the room. Darsh watched as the drama unfolded in front of their eyes. Dalpat Raisingh had come bearing gifts for his ''grandson'' - toys, sweets, clothes. A golden chain with a pendant that looked suspiciously like a family heirloom.


    "Aren''t you as handsome as your grandpa! " Dalpat Raisingh put the pendant around Neev''s neck and kissed his cheeks. Darsh stiffened.


    "Hold on Mr. Raisingh. Stay away from my son. And he doesn¡¯t need gifts from a stranger." He shot forward to snatch Neev back from the man¡¯s clutches. Dalpat Raisingh tutted.


    "But I am not a stranger, Darsh. I am your very own. How, might you ask? Maybe you can ask that question to your mother. And in the meanwhile, I want to see my old friend. It''s been ages since we had a good chat."


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    *****


    Dalpat climbed up the stairs to his friend''s room, his eyes leisurely sweeping around the sprawling property. He had missed it for the past three years. All his life, he had spent in luxury, living in the richest and most sumptuous places, but nothing compared to the feel of this place. Wealth was not just wealth here. It had an auspicious, ageless aura, as if Goddess Laxmi herself had blessed this place with her pious presence.


    He still remembered the day his father brought him here for the very first time. They were given a tour of the estates - the grand mansion, the vast stables teaming with the most magnificent horses, and miles and miles of fertile land blessed with nature''s bounty. Downstairs, in a special room was the temple, housing the family Gods. Fresh breeze whistled through the rooms carrying the scent of incense. Bright light filled every corner abolishing every darkness. There was no evil here. Everything was pure, divine, and blissful in its abundance. People''s faces too shone with contented smiles. There was a rare devotion for their owner that had somehow imprinted itself in his young heart.


    That was the first time Dalpat had experienced lust. At twelve, he hadn''t understood it, but later he could place the emotion very well. It was a carnal desire, a visceral longing to possess, control, and subjugate. All his life he had plotted to get a foothold. If Balwant had a sister, he would have married her himself. If Balwant had a daughter, he would have made Kabeer marry her. Alas, he had to wait for the third generation to reach that point. And even then, he had nearly missed that chance.


    Smirking to himself, he pushed open the door. Luckily, the tables had turned. Where his son and grandson had failed, his bastard had achieved that impossible feat. It was time to celebrate, to rub in that proverbial salt in his friend¡¯s face.


    "Today I win, and you lose." Dalpat walked in to sit on the bedside chaise. Sitting in his bed, propped against his pillows, Balwant looked confused.


    "Huh?"


    "You rejected Vivaan. You tried your best to wriggle out of your promise but today I have achieved what I always wanted. This estate will have a Raisingh name on it. The Sharma name will be erased and this place will belong to me."


    To his surprise, Balwant''s face cleared. It took a shrewd, knowing look that raised his hackles.


    "Don¡¯t celebrate prematurely, Dalpat. The race is not over yet, and I never put my money on a losing horse."


    "This time you have already lost." Dalpat laughed. "Because this time you bet on the wrong horse. Your son-in-law is my bastard, and all that is left for me is to stamp my name on him."


    *****


    It was a dark, sunless evening. Rain poured, lashing at the windowpanes with uncontrolled outbursts. Darsh gazed out the study window, his hands tied behind his back in a tight knot. A few minutes ago, he''d had a chat with his mother. It was a very short conversation ¨C a few uncomfortable questions and some equally uncomfortable answers. Even now he could hear the shame in her voice. Even from here, he could picture her innocent face, riddled with guilt and sadness.


    ¡°It was him. He is your father. Only he can save you from this. Just do what he wants.¡±


    Behind him, a lawyer cleared his throat.


    "You see Mr. Rathore, it¡¯s all very straightforward. Mr. Raisingh wants to officially adopt you. That is his condition to drop the lawsuit. You¡¯ll have to change your name from Darsh Karuna Rathore to Darsh Dalpat Raisingh. All your official documents must reflect the change. All your issues, present and future, must carry forward the name."


    All his children must carry forward the name of his rapist father. Revulsion surged through his gut. "And if I don''t?"


    "Then Mr. Raisingh will be left with no option but to pursue the bridge case. You and your wife will be jailed. Your child will have no one to look after him. Mr. Raisingh is of course generous enough to take Neev under his wings, but I doubt you appreciate the gesture."


    He did not. He could not tolerate Dalpat Raisingh within ten miles of Neev. Neev will have to live with his mother, but will Dalpat Raisingh let them live peacefully? Was there anyone who could withstand Dalpat Raisingh? Not Ravi Chachu, not his mother, not even the old and frail Balwant Sharma. Tired, Darsh closed his eyes. He had never felt such helplessness. Impotent was a better word. It was ridiculous, but that was how he felt at this moment.


    Hours passed. Dalpat Raisingh had left. Aditi tottered around the house, bright-eyed, face plastered with an unnatural smile. One moment she was caring for Dadaji, another moment she was with Neev. The next moment she came to him to offer some solace. He wanted to hide in some deep dark cave. So much for his worldly-wise ways, so much for his cunning mind. Today he had truly met his match.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. Had I married Vivaan, I¡¯d be a Raisingh anyway. Let¡¯s just do what he says and finish the matter. At least we all will be together.¡±


    *****


    It was late in the night when he went to Dadaji¡¯s room. The man had trusted him in vain. He had failed, utterly and abominably.


    "You made a mistake. You should not have chosen me for Aditi."


    The man''s face remained serene. "I said this to Dalpat, and I am saying this to you - I never gamble on a losing horse. You are fortunate that he is offering you those terms. Someone else in your place might not have been that lucky."


    Darsh stilled, frowning at the old man''s face. "So¡­you knew it? You knew Dalpat Raisingh is my father?"


    Balwant shook his head. "I knew it the first day I enquired about you. Aditi was back from Badari and was clearly in love. I had to know everything about you and my sources never fail me. I combed your life thirty years backward, then went a year further back. What I uncovered, disgusted me, not for you but for the man I called a lifelong friend. But later as I thought about it, I realized you were a godsend. I could not have found a better match for Aditi.¡±


    Darsh left the man to go stand near the window. He was not sure just now it was a good idea to show his face. All his pride was in ruins, and his self-respect was shattered. He wasn¡¯t chosen for his qualities after all. The only qualification that mattered was his paternity.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take your leave.¡±


    "Calm down, Boy. No need to take this to your heart. You do not know Dalpat as I do. If he was not your father, you and Aditi would both be in prison, I would be dead, and Dalpat would be ruling this place as Neev''s legal guardian. Be grateful he is allowing you this leeway."


    Be grateful. Yeah, sure. He left the man to his ramblings and came out. The house was deadly quiet. A lamp burned in the third-floor room, he knew Aditi was waiting for him, but his legs took him to the downstairs guestroom.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 77. Each To His Own

    Darsh paced the room as the night passed by, each moment trickling like a drop of salt on an open wound. All cards were open now, nobody had anything to hide. Dalpat Raisingh had played his shameless hand, and Balwant Sharma had accepted his cunning trick. His Ma, although blameless, had owned her guilt and Aditi''s love shone in her wordless support.


    Only he could not come to terms with it. It felt like he was being re-invented from within. Something churned inside, turning his body inside out. The beautiful, beguiling exterior was gone and the hideous flesh and gore was on display for everyone to ogle at. All thanks to his birth father. He had come out of this, unashamed and unscathed, while Darsh had nowhere to hide his filth.


    He let out a frazzled breath. How would it be to take the name of a man he abhorred so much? Darsh Dalpat Raisingh. The name had a nice ring to it. It would prove he too came from the same stock as his wife; that he too had the golden blood, the genes he had craved for all his life. Those who laughed at him and called him a bastard will finally know who he was. And yet it felt like the ultimate revenge. Fate had played a dirty trick, and in such a twisted way, he could not help but marvel at its cruelty.


    He would be the son of a rapist. The thick folder he kept on Dalpat Raisingh would be his legacy. The insanity, the perverseness, and total lack of morals - that would be his real inheritance. People would hate him. All his good deeds for the past three years would come to nothing. He would be just the next Raisingh in line - the one destined to carry forward the ghastly legacy.


    His heart burned as he sat on the sofa stuffing his face in his palms. At the door, Aditi cleared her throat.


    "I... just wanted to check if you need anything." She looked worried as she stepped in. It was still an hour before the sunrise. The birds had begun chirping but the house was still in its early hours of slumber. "You didn''t sleep the whole night. Are you...okay?"


    She came closer and touched his arm. He noticed her puffy, sleepless eyes. Masses of dark hair tumbled over her shoulders. The air was chilly, and through her cotton dress, he could see tiny goosebumps prickling her soft skin. His heart ached with yearning. If it was some other day, he would have pulled her in his arms, kissed her insanely, and made love as if there was no tomorrow. If there was one thing true about their relationship, it was that he found solace in her. But tonight, something was different. He could not do it. He didn¡¯t know if what he felt was love or lust, if at this moment he was just Darsh Rathore or Darsh Dalpat Raisingh.


    Her grief was alluring. Arousing. Maybe this was how Dalpat Raisingh felt when he looked at his helpless mother.


    A shiver of disgust rippled his heart. He stiffened and took a step back. "I am fine. Did you need anything? I want to stay alone for a while.¡±


    She looked taken aback. ¡°I just wanted to see if you are alright. I know how you must be feeling at this moment¡­ ¡±


    Oh, did she? His face twisted in a sarcastic smile. Did she think she could fathom what he was going through? She, the legitimate Sharma heiress, who was brought up in the cozy cocoon of her family name and riches, what would she know about his illegitimate legacy? He was the bastard here; he was the one with compromised credentials. She, on the other hand, was as good as they could get.


    A bolt of jealous burning shot through his heart. His fists rolled as his face set in a cold, hard mask.


    "I said please leave me alone Aditi. I''ll sign those adoption papers. I know that''s what''s expected of me, but for now, just leave me alone."


    Her face fell. Her eyes lost their hope that he hadn¡¯t realized was there in the first place. She looked guilt-ridden, ashamed, which pleased him. He was being wronged, and she knew it. That gave him power over her.


    "I was going to say... you don''t have to do it. It''s okay if Grandpa Raisingh pursues the case. We''ll find some way. And if nothing works and we do end up in prison...", her face took a grey pallor, "I''ll ask for Sonal''s help. We can make her and Rohit the legal guardians. Gaurav will help too. It''s only a matter of a few years. We will manage."


    So she had given this a thought. She was willing to go to prison so he could keep his self-respect. Darsh laughed. Either way, she had nothing to lose as all she wanted was for him to be happy. And either way, he was the loser. Whatever he did, he would end up miserable.


    "Thanks for the offer, but no thanks." His voice was strangely formal. "I won''t let you suffer on my account. Your Dadaji chose me for this day. So let me now do my duty."


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    She looked pained.


    "Please. Dadaji did not choose you because you were a Raisingh. He chose you because I loved you. Had I loved anyone else, he would have..."


    Before she finished her sentence, he pushed the door shut. He did not like her tears nor did he want to weep in front of her. Alright, no one was at fault. Neither Dadaji nor Aditi. Nor his mother, who had foolishly gone and got herself raped and then decided to bring him to this world just to prove a point. No one was at fault but him. He was the one making a mountain out of a molehill.


    Hours passed as he seethed, bitterness burning holes in his already tattered pride. Finally, he got up and dialed a number. There was one last thing he could try. Not that it could mend what was already broken, but it was worth a shot. If the game was between two Raisinghs, he could stoop as low as he wanted.


    ¡°Steve. I have a job for you.¡± He barked into the phone as soon as Steve answered it. The man mercifully stayed quiet as Darsh listed his requirements. ¡°I am emailing you an affidavit. Find Vivaan Raisingh and get him to sign it. Do whatever you want, use whoever you want. Beat him to a pulp if that¡¯s what it takes. You have three hours.¡±


    *****


    A few miles from the Sharma Residence, on a cool terrace overshadowed by a two-hundred-year-old Banyan tree, Dalpat Raising sat on his favorite swing, savoring his morning tea. It was just past breakfast and a cool breeze flew over the mountains directly into his face, bringing with it the scent of fertile soil. He inhaled and closed his eyes, a familiar thrill filling his body.


    Ahem! He was surprised this place still had that effect on him - the effect he had experienced at the tender age of twelve, and had shaped his life afterward.


    ¡°So what are you going to do about them?¡±


    A shrill, agitated voice burst his bubble of sublime serenity. Irritated, Dalpat opened his eyes.


    ¡°About whom?¡±


    ¡°About Darsh!¡± Mansi shrieked. ¡°And Aditi, and of course Balwant and Ravi Sharma. I have been ousted from my home and have nowhere to go. Both my children are suffering. What are you going to do about it?¡±


    He tusked. What was he supposed to do about it? The woman had absurd notions of loyalty. There was nothing legitimate about their relationship, yet she felt let down as if he owed her some husbandly fealty. She was stupid but then he liked his women stupid or how would he be able to use them?


    ¡°I already told you," he cajoled her. "I am adopting Darsh. And he has agreed. So, there is no more to be done about it.¡±


    He closed his eyes again but knew she was watching him with naked hatred. She hadn¡¯t taken the news of Darsh¡¯s paternity lightly. She felt betrayed. Dalpat laughed inwardly. Did the woman think she was the only one he was fu**ing? In those days, when he was in his prime, there had been many. He could not even remember them now, maybe Darsh¡¯s folder had all the details. It was his hobby, his one true passion. When you are born wealthy and there¡¯s nothing more to achieve you must while your time away doing something. For some like Ravi, it was gambling. For some like Balwant, it was philanthropy. For Dalpat, it had been his women. Hunt them, use them, discard them, and move forward ¨C that had been his motto. He lived his life by his rules. Mansi had no right to object to it.


    His face filled with disdain. He knew why she was miffed. He had released Nehal from lock-up but hadn''t extended the same curtsey to Mohit. In his defense, he had two reasons - a) Nehal was his own blood and b) It was nice to have two women pandering to him rather than one. The boy was just trouble. He was best left to rot in the cell.


    He opened one wrinkled eye and saw Mansi staring at him outraged. Sighing, he opened his other eye.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about Mohit. They don¡¯t have enough proof against him. He will be freed eventually.¡±


    ¡°They have enough proof to keep him there for years! And Darsh would not let it drop just because you don¡¯t pursue your case. I want him to withdraw the charges against Mohit. I know you can do it. He will do it if you ask him.¡±


    And why would he do that? Dalpat rolled his amused eyes. For some reason, he knew all was not over yet. Darsh was his own blood. He must have something up his sleeves. On one side Dalpat was immensely proud. On the other side, just a little tired. He wished he didn¡¯t have to go through all this at this age. Already Vivaan¡¯s accident had nearly taken the life out of him. Now to lock horns with Darsh wore him out. If only Darsh was his legitimate son, it would not have come to this. He would be at the Sharma residence now, enjoying the perks of being a legitimate father. For some reason, the word startled him. He was as much an illegitimate father as his illegitimate children. Only he had sailed through his life without ever realizing it.


    ¡°Are you listening?¡± Mansi shrieked, again breaking his reverie. He gritted his teeth. ¡°I said, ask your bastard to release Mohit. You owe it to me. I have served you for years, faithfully. I have loved you when no one else would. You have to make it up to me or...I''ll go to the papers.¡±


    The penny dropped as he stiffened. The woman was forgetting her place. She needed to be taught a lesson. And that was his specialty.


    ¡°All in good time, sweetheart.¡± A cruel smirk played on his lips as he got up from the swing. His eyes went over her body. She was still desirable. Well as desirable as she could be in this situation, with no other female in sight. Luckily Nehal was in her room, or he would have much preferred her to this saggy bag of flesh.


    Sighing, he held her by her arm and dragged her in. Walking to the bed he pulled off his dressing robes, and then his silk shorts revealing his shriveled manhood.


    "What on earth..." She fell silent as she realized what he was going to ask. He could not quite get her expression. Neither did he care.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do everything you want. But first, you must do your bit. Serve me, faithfully and lovingly, as you have always done. Then I¡¯ll see.¡±


    An evil grin spread his face as she stumbled forward and went down to her knees. He closed his eyes in anticipation of what was to come when his legs jerked. He fell backward hitting his head on something hard and his vision went dark.


    ***** *****

 Chapter 78. Wings of Hope (Last)

    ¡°I¡¯ll do everything you want. But first, you must do your bit,¡± Dalpat Raisingh laughed, relishing his power over the woman kneeling before him in utter shame. His eyes twinkled with malice. How easy it was to subjugate the female species. They knelt for love, they knelt for hate. They knelt for friends, family, even strangers, but never for themselves.


    They knelt for the utter stupidity and vulnerability that God bestowed upon them when he created females. They were weaklings, made for people like him to control and humiliate. God must be a man who created a woman to be his plaything.


    His lip curled with contempt and amusement.


    ¡°What are you waiting for, my dear? You want me to help your son, don¡¯t you? Then serve me, faithfully and lovingly, as you just promised. Then I¡¯ll think of releasing Mohit.¡±


    Jitters of anticipation ran through his body as he tilted his head backwards. Old though he was, his body had never failed him. Even now it was ready, arousing with the promise of pleasure this woman was about to bring.


    A trickle of saliva escaped from his half-open mouth. This was what he lived for ¨C the thrill, the pleasure, the utter sense of control. And if he ever died, it would be in the quest of this pleasure. Amen to that.


    ¡°I am waiting.¡± He nudged the snail-paced woman. Mansi bent her head as if praying to some God of lust.


    A moment passed, then two, then ten. Nothing happened. He was about to open his eyes when his legs jerked.


    Someone pulled his legs forward, making his spine jerk at its base. He fell backwards as his head hit something hard, and then his vision went dark.


    *****


    Dalpat Raisingh died around ten that morning, by cracking his skull open on the sharp corner of his bedroom fireplace. An hour later, a servant reported the death. By the next day, police had closed the case after a cursory investigation.


    Standing against the study window, with a cool evening air soothing his back, Darsh almost smiled. He was feeling unbelievably light. Suddenly, all the clouds had cleared, and the air was light and fresh. The commotion in his heart and head had died down with the death of Dalpat Raisingh.


    Call it Karma, call it fate or divine justice. The culprit was punished. The pest called Dalpat Raisingh was finally vanquished, and he was off the hook.


    ¡°So, it was a natural death?¡± Balwant Sharma asked inspector Kalra, who was here on an unofficial visit to report them of the proceedings. Not that he had to. This family did not pay his wages, but Kalra knew very well where his bread and butter lay.


    While Kalra looked eager to please, Balwant looked tired, grief etched in the lines of his face, making them prominent than ever. The death of his once-best friend had brought him out of his sickbed, but he looked more like an animated puppet pulled by strings of memories.


    ¡°It was an accidental death,¡± Kalra said with a suitably solemn expression. ¡°Mr. Raisingh tripped over the bedroom carpet and hit the nearby marble fireplace.¡±


    ¡°Postmortem?¡± Darsh asked, as he observed the inspector with interest. The man was new to Rajpur police station, but by no means a novice. Lean frame, wary eyes, and an oily smile on face. His kind were useful if kept at arm¡¯s length.


    ¡°The coroner has confirmed our findings.¡±


    ¡°And there is no reason to suspect anyone?¡±


    ¡°None so far. Mr Raisingh was at his home, surrounded by his own people. No one saw or heard anything suspicious. His doctor has confirmed that he was prone to dizzy spells due to old age. We have decided not to pursue the matter further.¡±


    Darsh hummed, keeping his face neutral. His own sources said something else. The servant who reported the death had seen Mansi Sharma leaving the room not half an hour before. It was not hard to put two and two together, but evidently, when it came to this family, the inspector forgot his elementary math.


    Not that it was his fault. Many people would have done the same, and rightly so. Mansi Sharma¡¯s conviction was not more important than the family¡¯s reputation and the obvious humiliation it would bring to Balwant Sharma, who considered the village his own family.


    Already Mohit¡¯s case was pending in the court. It was only fair to spare Balwant the heartache of a full-blown media scandal, and for that, Darsh was grateful.


    ¡°Thank you, Inspector. We appreciate the prompt investigation. Do let us know if we can help in any way in the future. Now, if there is nothing else...¡±


    ¡°Umm... I am sorry for the trouble, but there¡¯s one more thing.¡± Kalra looked sheepish. Darsh raised his brow.


    ¡°It¡¯s about the funeral. You see, we contacted the kin of the deceased to collect his body, but they are both unavailable. Mr. Kabir Raisingh is indisposed, and Mr. Vivaan Raisingh is unwilling to travel to Palampur due to ...personal reasons.¡±


    Really! Darsh nearly choked. So, Dalpat Raisingh was abandoned in his death by the only people he ever loved. This must be what they call poetic justice. How interesting! And how very, very fitting!


    He straightened his face.


    ¡°It¡¯s unfortunate, Mr. Kalra, but I do not see how it concerns us. Surely you have protocols and procedures to take care of unclaimed bodies?¡±


    He did not know what these protocols were, nor did he care. Surely it would involve keeping the body in hospital morgue until a cremation slot became available. Just this last year, they had donated an electric crematory for the area. It had proved quite popular and was always overbooked. Alas, Dalpat Raisingh will have to wait in the queue like any other ordinary man, but weren¡¯t all men equal in death?


    ¡°We can pay for a slot in crematory if that¡¯s what you wish,¡± Darsh offered unwillingly. Kalra looked uneasy.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that, Mr. Rathore. The state has a protocol for the poor and unclaimed, but it¡¯s not like the deceased was either of them.¡± Kalra hesitated. ¡°And the Raisinghs have old ties with this family. So we were thinking if you could¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, you were thinking wrong.¡± Darsh cut him short. ¡°The family ties were severed long ago. The whole Palampur knows of it. I suggest you go ahead with the funeral yourself.¡±


    ¡°But Mr Raisingh¡¯s lawyer does not agree,¡± Kalra finally blurted out. ¡°He says as you were to be adopted by him, it should be you who...¡±


    So that was the reason! Darsh left his shady corner and moved to the table, into the glare of the study light so the inspector could see his face clearly. He had had enough. It was important to get this right in case Kalra had any doubt.


    As expected, Kalra paled.


    ¡°Now listen carefully, inspector. There is no question of me lighting the funeral pyre, if that¡¯s what you are suggesting. The adoption was a wishful thinking on Mr Raisingh¡¯s part. A ludicrous daydream, nothing more. His lawyers would have persuaded him against it had they been not so lousy at their job. In any case, I had no part to play in it. Mr. Raisingh and his lawyers can go and f*ck themselves for all I care. I suggest you go back to them and relay my message, word by word.¡±


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    Ten minutes later, when Kalra left, Darsh was still cold. Hatred had a way of bringing him to his worst. Thankfully, Balwant did not react, and Kalra was too shaken to utter a word.


    ¡°So, this is it then,¡± Balwant sighed after a while from his perch in the chair. ¡°Dalpat is to get a pauper¡¯s funeral. His own family is not bothered and no one else would care either.¡±


    Darsh ignored the obvious hint. He owed nothing to Dalpat Raisingh. He had caused nothing but pain when he was alive. Now in death, he was not going to let Dalpat torture him.


    ¡°You need to rest, Babuji. There is no need to stress yourself over unnecessarily.¡± Darsh offered Balwant a glass of fresh water. The man looked a bit more alive after a few sips.


    ¡°Maybe if you reconsider¡­¡±


    ¡°I respect you Babuji and there are very few things I would refuse you, but I cannot compromise on this. My decision is final. I refuse to acknowledge him in his death. That is my revenge and prerogative.¡±


    He could not have been plainer. Balwant looked sadder than ever, but for Darsh, the chapter was closed.


    *****


    To Darsh¡¯s utter dismay, Dalpat did not have to wait in a queue. The funeral was held at Palampur graveyard, in the grand old traditional way. Balwant Sharma himself lit the pyre. Hundreds gathered to pay condolences, not out of respect to Dalpat, but out of love towards Balwant Sharma. Their beloved patron was magnanimous enough to forgive an arch enemy. They did not want to be held back by their small mind.


    As the eighty-year-old stood in stoic silence, watching the fire engulf his friend, Darsh felt a burn in his heart.


    ¡°He did not deserve this. He did not deserve to be absolved in death.¡±


    Balwant looked at him. ¡°Everyone deserves respect, Darsh, especially in death. We are not humans if we deny that.¡±


    ¡°He was not human.¡±


    Balwant shook his head. ¡°Whatever he was, he was once my friend. I have known him since childhood. He would not have left here without a proper farewell. Not truly, anyway. And I do not want his ghost hanging on our heads for the rest of the eternity.¡±


    Darsh nodded as his face flamed. It was another reminder to get his grips. Hating Dalpat was a sure-shot way to keep him alive. It was a double-edged sword. He had to let go before it was too late.


    ¡°Do not let him ruin your life from beyond the grave, my boy. You must let him go for your own sake, as I have now.¡± Balwant patted his shoulder as he turned to leave. The fire had subsided, with wisps of ashes started floating in the wind. Everyone else who came for the sake of him made a beeline for the exit after him.


    Darsh stayed there for some more time. It was difficult to let go of a man by whose shadow he had spent his entire life.


    *****


    A day later, when Mansi and Nehal Sharma left Palampur for good, Darsh was at the station to see them off. Balwant¡¯s words hummed in his head. They made perfect sense, yet his it was proving hard to implement them.


    He had deposited a hefty amount to both their accounts in lieu of their share of the property. Ravi Sharma had turned his back on them for good and proper and, in all fairness, Darsh wanted nothing that was not legally or morally right.


    ¡°I hope you make good use of this money and lead an honest life,¡± Darsh¡¯s face was grave. ¡°But trouble my family again and I¡¯ll make sure you pay the price many times over.¡±


    Mansi¡¯s dead eyes flamed with hatred. She had attended yesterday¡¯s funeral with Nehal. Both had stood in a far corner and watched with silent eyes. Noone spoke with them. People already knew enough to give her a wide berth. It was hard for her to watch the pyre burn¨Cit was a funeral of her future. Any hopes of getting Mohit released or a better future for her children turned to ashes with Dalpat.


    ¡°You think you are too clever, Darsh Rathore?¡± Mansi spat with venom. ¡°You think you are better than us just because to married to Aditi? Just wait and watch. You have the blood of Dalpat Raisingh. You will suffer the same fate that every other Raisingh has.¡±


    It sounded like a curse. Darsh felt sick in the stomach.


    ¡°You think you will escape it just because you pander to Balwant Sharma? Mark my words. You too will suffer. It¡¯s your legacy, your fate. He lives through you. One day they will hate you just as they hate Dalpat Raisingh now. Soon you will get your comeuppance and next it would be your son¡¯s turn.¡±


    He stared speechless as Zorawar grabbed the woman¡¯s arm to drag her away from him. They boarded the train and soon disappeared out of sight, but her words stayed with him.


    The funeral was over, Mansi was gone. With Mohit is jail and Ravi Sharma finally coming round to see reason, life should have been on the path to be sorted. But Darsh remained restless. Mansi¡¯s words echoed in his head, stealing his peace of mind. He was not really off the hook. It was juvenile to think that it would be so easy.


    Earlier, he was a part of the problem. Now he was the problem. In the future, his kids would be. It was a vicious circle. They would only end up where they all started.


    *****


    Aditi walked into her room at the end of a busy day. She had put Neev to bed and Balwant was already asleep. Her husband though, was still working. She had not seen much of him during the day and at night too, he was likely to come home late.


    Sighing slightly, she pulled her dresser-drawer open when her eyes fell on an old notebook. Well, it was more than a notebook. It was her diary she used to keep when she had nobody to talk to. The diary she told not only her secrets but her miseries, too.


    She picked it up and flicked it open, right at the bookmark. It was a page of her kill-list. Ajay was still there as Paddy-Pradyumna Chaudhury. A line crossed through Ajay¡¯s name to signify he was no longer a concern, but the other name remained unmarked.


    Her fingers shook as the book dropped to the dresser. The names still affected her. Though she had forgotten that black night long ago and moved on in her life, the tendrils of memories still had the power to disturb her.


    Grabbing the dresser with both hands, she took a deep breath. It had been years. A lifetime had passed, and she had lived through it. Surely, it was time for her to let go. This diary was a remnant of a past she did not cherish. What was the point of keeping it alive?


    She picked the book again and went downstairs to the kitchen. The house was quiet, and the servants had already left for the day. She took a matchbox from the kitchen drawer and walked to the sink. It was time to burn the bit of her past that had no space in her life.


    The flames took hold, much as the pyre of Grandpa Raisingh. Not for the last time did she wonder how her husband was. It was easier for her to burn this notebook, but she knew he could not let go of his monsters so easily. He was a deep man, passionate in love and hate alike. Like an ancient mountain deep-set in its roots, he was hard to move. Change was against his nature.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± The voice did not startle her. Slowly, she turned to find Darsh at the kitchen door. Maybe he had finished his day¡¯s work, or maybe there was no work, and it was just an excuse to stay away from her. The burning smoke of the paper had brought him to her.


    Aditi tried to smile.


    ¡°Nothing. I mean... nothing to worry. I am just clearing up some old stuff. Would you like something? Let me make you a glass of turmeric milk¡­you did not eat much today.¡±


    He came closer, and she noticed his face tired from the day¡¯s work. For some reason, he looked like a withering tree. It seemed he needed food, water, care. Love.


    She stepped forward to hug him, going on her tiptoes to peck his cheek. His arms automatically responded to the hug, but he stayed stiff, his eyes on the burning pages behind her.


    ¡°Is that your diary? The one you kept when you were in Dallas?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± She stepped back to meet his gaze. ¡°It was just lying around and it¡¯s not like I need it anymore. It served its purpose, but I think it¡¯s time to let it go.¡±


    ¡°Hmm. You are braver than me.¡± He said with his face still grave. Her heart twisted. It felt like he was still mourning. Not Dalpat Raisingh, but a father he could cherish, feel proud of. That hope was quashed forever. Dadaji was a pillar, an ideal to look up to, but his roots were tied more to Dalpat Raisingh.


    A man could not change his genes. What was within him was his fate. He could not alter that.


    Her heart twisted. Here was a man that was suffering in his own self-made chakravyuha. The labyrinth would gulp him alive if nobody helped him.


    She raised a hand to touch his cheek. ¡°I know what Mansi Chachi said that day before she left. Zorawar old me everything.¡±


    He looked away.


    ¡°And I also know what¡¯s keeping you worried these days.¡±


    His eyes snapped to her.


    ¡°And you are not worried? Are you not worried the same insanity will affect us? Me, or Neev?¡±


    She smiled. ¡°I am worried that we will ruin the chance we have been given. It¡¯s a new life, Darsh, free of all our old enemies. We have been lucky to get rid of them. Now it¡¯s time to really free ourselves of their shackles.¡±


    ¡°Even the last one?¡± His eyes went to the sink, where the pages had burned to ashes. ¡°He is still out there roaming freely, probably preying on some other innocent woman. Do you really think you can forget what he did to you?¡±


    ¡°I have come a long way, have lived my share of life with my share of troubles. I know there is still much to come, and I need to be ready for it. But most of all, I know that I have a wonderful family¨Ca caring husband, beautiful kids. A loving grandfather and mother in Karuna Ma. Vicki too will recover one day. It is enough for me. I am content.¡±


    She turned back to the sink to clean up the mess. Her words ran through his mind on a loop ¡ª husband, Dadaji, Vicki, Ma. Kids¡­


    His face cleared. He would have noticed earlier if he had paid attention. She looked sublime as usual, but there was something different about her. He had missed it at Neev¡¯s time, but this time the change was more prominent.


    Her body had filled out. Skin was radiant than ever. Her face had that soft look he had only seen on his mother.


    The clamour in his heart suddenly died down.


    She was right. Life was giving them a new chance. All they had to do was to embrace it with open arms.


    ***** *****


    THE END.