chapter 38

  38. Ankahi Aashnae!!!!Next Morning  At Malhotra Mansion:-Rishabh's POV:The gust of wind blowed and her hair swayed carelessly ... I went to her who is actually the epitome of beauty.....Keeping my hands on her shoulder I turned her to myself ...just to find her scared with an unknown fear in her eyes.....I embraced her in my arms to ensure I will never let any trouble came near her...She looked up to me with some quandary....and a tear slipped from her eyes....I bent down to kiss her just to see her eyes closed....I smiled at her antique then pulled her nose....She struggled under my embrace to set her free but this time I bent down to see her still....We both had unspeakable emotions in our eyes and we neared to mark the moment ours, and her forever mine....         beep****beep****beep****Rishabh opened his eyes irritated by morning rays of the sun striking his face.... jolted awake in his room to find no one around ....to realise it was a dream ...his very own ....God my head!!! it's paining like hell...the worst hangover ever...and why the hell I dreamt off .. I was kissing her .... Maybe it's just an aftermath of having whisky on the rocks..  Next time I am never going to be a part of Dhruv's tricks...God it's like someone is striking my head with a hammer....Rishabh jabbered wincing in pain with the massive headache he is suffering from...Oh Shit I need to rush else I will be late today....he exclaimed looking at the clock and hurried to the shower...At Mehra Residence....Sukh beta Jaldi uth jaao aaj Office nahi jaana kya...( Sukh dear get up... aren't you willing to go to Office today...) shouted her mother Shahsi Mehra calling her from downstairs while heading to her room....amid she struggled keeping her eyes open....still snoring lightly...        Kya hogaya iss ladki ko aaj itni der se soo rahi hai...(what's wrong with this girl today...she is still sleeping soundly..) Shashi wondered...Rehne dijiye ek din ki chutti karlegi toh kya bigad jayega... Aaj waise bhi kaafi dino baad hum sab saath hai... ( Let her sleep!!!It's not going to effect anyway if she takes a day off today .. afterall we all are together after so long, she deserves some family time...) exclaimed her father defending her..Aapko nahi pata uske Office mein koi naya project hai ...maybe she is tired for that .... agar abhi nahi uthi toh late ho jayegi aur uske baad humse kahegi Maa aapne utha dena tha na humne... (you don't know anything about it...she has a new venture in her office ... if she will not get up now the she will surely be late and then will blame me saying you must have waked me up!!!) she aversed imitating her..Achaa ji thik hai jive tuhuanu changa lage...(it's alright do as you like...) he said defeated looking at her chucklingHaanji aap apni chai lijiye abhi uthati hu use ja kar....( Here, take your tea I will get her up now...) she said handling him his tea and left for Sukh's room upstairs...        Sukh beta wake up kya hua aur kitni der soagi beta Get Up.... ( Sukh dear Get up!! what's wrong today..how long you will sleep more...get up dear)...called her mother sweetly in an attempt of waking her up...Sukh...Sukh you are having high fever kya baat hai; kis baat se pareshan ho tum...(what's the matter.. what's bothering you...) asked her mother panicked realising she is having slight fever...Mom Sorry I overslept ...kaafi der hogayi hai kya hume... ...( am I very late...) what time is it....she asked startled the moment getting upDon't worry you will make it but Sukh you are having fever I think you should call for a day off....chided her mother concerned...No Mom I am not calling for a day off aaj Rishabh ji..I mean Rishabh Sir teams divide karenga ( he is going to divide teams today...) forget about day off I even don't wanna be late...she hurried for getting her clothes form her wardrobe...Ok fine but breakfast ke baad ek Paracetamol le lena..( it's Ok if you want to go but don't forget to take a Paracetamol after breakfast...) she suggested arranging the duvet which lied on her other side ...Ok Mom...she called getting inside shower..Thank God aaj bach gaye ..hum bhi na..agar team ka bahana nahi hota toh aaj toh pakka I must have caught lying... she very well knows humara immune system kitna sahi hai... Jaldi bukhar nahi hota hume it's either when I get drenched in rain or when I am stressed or I try to keep a secret... chahe jo bhi ho it's about a couple of days yeh secret rakhna hi hai Maa Papa ke samne.... (Thank God!!!I made the excuse of team division and managed to keep my secret today...I must have been caught lying today, she very well knows I get fever either when I get drenched or I lie...No matter what I am bound to keep my secret with me am not going to disclose anything about him to my Parents...) She jogged her memory...I will not let them know that I meet him...and even I don't want to back off afterall I won't want to feel like a coward...I will face him no matter what....she prompted again to herself...Ab bus kijiye Sukh ji khud se baatein karna warna Rishabh Sir ki baatein Oops!!...daant sunni padegi aapko...( Now stop talking to yourself else you will have to listen Rishabh's words Oops!! scolding....) Hurry Up!!!...she reminded herself reminscing his anger...Taking the fastest shower of her life she rushed downstairs and hurried outside grabbing an apple from the fruit basket...Sukh wait!!! Naashta toh kar ke jaao..( have your breakfast before leaving...)and your medicine..she called from behind...Sorry Maa kaafi late ho rahe hai...(Sorry Mom can't have breakfast with you guys, I am really getting late...) don't worry I am fine now...she assured with a small smile....I will have something after meeting aur lunch toh humare pass hai hi( and I have my lunch with me)....she said standing at the door frame showing her the lunchbox which was kept on the table for her....Bye see you... she waved her hands to everyone....At Office....Thank God I made it on time....well done Sukh you reached before anyone ....she complemented herself walking towards her desk unaware of Rishabh's presence...Good I may have my morning Coffe in Peace now...she spoked to herself as headed to the Pantry keeping her bag at her desk when she heard Rishabh's voice...Sir are you alright!!...Ravi asked to Rishabh concerned as he didn't seemed alright with puffy red eyes...Yes I am fine...he replied back without looking up going through some papersRavi get the Conference Hall Ready... we will be having our next meeting in 15 minutes...and don't forget to take care of the refreshments ....he ordered still engrossed in the file...Ok Sir!!...he replied oblising his words...Inform others from the law firm too... One more thing get me the Contract papers of Chawla Enterprises..he narrated in his authorative voiceOk Sir!!....he replied againYou may leave...he said dismissing him from his cabin after assisting him his work..And.... he was about to say something else but shrugged it off as Ravi already left and there was no one in Office yet...Thank you Ravi this was so much needed...he said with a satisfied expression again without looking up when someone brought him his morning Coffee just after he was about to give up on the idea of it and he misunderstood it to be Ravi...It's Ok Sir... replied Sukh chuckling at his remarksMs.Mehra !!!.....he looked up amazed to find her in the same outfit he dreamt her in last night, making his eyes captive on her face with the expression of affection... but he shifted away his gaze soon realising it's not the way he may look at her !!......Yes!!! it's me Sukh...she replied with a sweet smileSo finally you are on time...he said sarcastically criticising her being a late comer...Yes I am...she replied almost in a same tone..Well I didn't asked you to get me this...he rebuked slightly showing tantrums as was embaressed by himself..**being Rishabh he never lets himself show his emotions easily... even self denies them everytime...**Well I was making one for myself so....she said in her angelic sweet voice..That's so thoughtful of you but Sorry!! but I don't have time with me...he joined looking down to the papers again...His internal thoughts were: I expected her to leave as was embaressed with my dream and the moment I saw her everything played infront of eyes...she is dressed exactly the same way even her hairstyle is same ; but instead she stand on her grounds crossing her arms...A while ago you were thanking me and now you are being sophisticated....she complained breaking his reverie of thoughts....Moreover it just takes 2 minutes to gulp down Coffe and I don't want you to be sleepy today like I was Yesterday...she added reasoning...I am not sleepy!!.. he opposed strongly...Ofcourse Yes !!! although your eyes tell a different story..she said pouting a bit putting her arms at her hips making her look more adorable...So you are going to read my eyes now....he asked amused raising an eyebrow...No I didn't need to because I can feel you....she mumbled at a go again without any filters loud enough for him to hearSorry!!!!he asked shocked with the revelation watching her intently..Umm.. Nothing...she replied biting her lips looking away.. Suit yourself ....your Coffe is lying there..have a great day ahead.. she added and stormed out of the cabin without giving him any room to speak further...Ms.Mehra...Sukh!!! wait..he called her name from his cabin which she didn't heeded toSilly Girl!!! Kuch bhi bolti hai...(doesn't hesitate to speak....) I guess she must learn to speak more to others than to herself....maybe then she will learn to use filters before saying anything...he remarked composing himself looking at her figure nearing her desk from his cabinOn the contrary Sukh you must learn to practice silence ...God knows what he must be thinking of me... Silly me...she criticised herself on her little stunt while nearing to her deskThe day continued dealing with the Clients and staff from the law firm...by Rishabh's side... it was definately a great start off the day as he came across the fact that the annual turnover of the Company is increased by 3 times... feeling of ecstasy filled in him...In-terim Sukh was struggling with the new project and her team which Comprised of Dhruv, Carol, Malvika and few other from the architect firm... although she is now with the people who admire her but all this is new to him....she was scared to take any decision as was unaware of its outcome... and looked upto Dhruv and Carol from the Architect firm for their reviews too without feeling down about herself....But being Sukh she managed her team quite well ...be it dividing the work on fair grounds, according to the ease of her team mates to giving them opportunity to present their views... everything was well planned and executed....In Dhruv's Cabin:-So I will get the progress report ready I know Rishabh Sir will be asking for it within a while...she said arranging the papers getting up from the opposite chair after everyone left...Great Sukh in the meantime I will check over the Presentation for once again...Dhruv joined in, his eyes fixed on his laptop screen....Hey what about group lunch today!!!...he proposed still looking at his laptop..Sorry but I have my lunch with me....she disregarded fixing her hair strands getting up....Do you mean the Aalo Parathas you brought today...he said raising an eyebrow glancing her sideways smirking...Maybe I don't know it was already packed!!...she voaclised...Well they were really tasty thanks Aunty by my side too!!...he goaded expecting her to complain but to his consternation she was standing still looking at him...Did you get me I had your lunch won't you will shout at me like you always do...Dhruvji it's not fair!!!...he said again mocking her....No I am not going to shout on you this time!!....she said after moments of silence with a evil smile and fixing her veil to her waist ran behind him fisting her hands definately with the motive of hitting him....making him jolt from his seatIn no time they were running around Dhruv's desk while she was running behind him and they were scattering all the papers, files and other stuffs around which were accustomed for decorating his cabin ....Sukhi wait !!Sukh I am Sorry Ok !!...trust me it will be my treat...!! he said panting between talking deep breaths...Treat I don't want your treat Ok I want my lunch back...how could you do this to me ...since College you torture me like this...she grumbledI am Sorry!!...he said holding his laughter hearing her ..Today it's going to get over I will definitely teach you a lesson...she addedMeantime Rishabh entered the cabin with some files on his hands....Sukh stood still looking at him but Dhruv ran to him for security...Rishabh Bhai save me from this devil girl she is trying to hit me ... he pleaded hiding behind Rishabh shielding himself from her ...Hit me!!! I am going to knock you down today...Sukh rebuked knowing he is trying to escape thinking she is harmless infront of Rishabh as she is scared of him... and grabbed fistful of his hair making him wince ...Dhruv too responded back and held her braids asking her to leave his hair....Rishabh was left dumbfolded but looking at them brawling shouted.. What the !!! Stop it...just stop it guys behave yourself... both of you are fighting like School kids.... making them halt on their tracks...Stand here both of you!!...he instructed pointing infront of him and both of them stood still infront of him bowing their heads down...I would like to know the reason why were you both fighting....he said gaspingI did nothing they said in unison... defending themselves..Look at the mess you both created....I am not here to deal with two children do you get me...he said looking around the cabin..Clear this all now...he ordered and they both started cleaning the mess they created without opposition...he glared them with some frustration faking anger, crossing his arms but all was vanished looking at the small smiles they were exchanging while doing there chore... deep down he knew and was in awwe with the two most jolly person around him who cherish him unconditionally...and Ms.Mehra as soon as you get over this come to my cabin with the progress report...he said before leaving giving them a last glare....and as soon as he left they both bursted into laughter looking at each other...Hey I am genuinely Sorry!!!he apologized again..It's Ok Dhruvji even I am Sorry for spoiling your hair I know you are quite possessive about it...she said pointing towards his hair...It's Ok!!! He voiced fixing his messy hair with his hands...After around 15 minutes they were done cleaning the mess by collecting all te scattered papers and files, fixing the table lamp and arranging the other stuffs...Let's start over the progress report!! she proposed and he nodded...Can you give me the idea how to get it started...she asked him...Yes I may..he added just then Nishant entered his Cabin grinning ear to ear...Hii Dhruvi...he greetedHey Nishant Bhai.. what's up... Have you meet Rishabh Bhai.. should I get you something....he said greeting him back reflecting same happiness and excitement..Wait a minute bro ...I want nothing just wanted to catch up with you!!!!he said embracing him in a brotherly hugSukh stood a distance away from their conversation and hurried gathering her stuff so she could quickly excuse herself from them....Sir I should leave!!you guys Carry on...she said proceeding outside ..Hey Sukhi wait!!! Nishant Bhai can you please help us by giving us briefs about how to start over a progress report...he asked Nishant for helpYes Ofcourse it will be a pleasure...he readily agreedGreat!!...Sukhi the problem is solved now you can concern him...he exclaimedThat's so considerate of you both but I am Sorry I can't except that ... it's better to count upon your aptitude than your resources.. I will manage... she said turning to them standing near the door..But Sukh!!...he tried to intervein...It's Ok Dhruv ...afterall I am always there for you guys she is right... you must count on your skills first... you may proceed... by the way what's your name again.....he voiced the point again clenching his jaw dejected with the rejection ...Sukhpreet Mehra!!!she replied still without facing him...Ok as you say so...Dhruv interrupted adding in agreementI must proceed...Sukh said asking for their permission to leave...Wait a minute..Sukh can you please do the favor of getting your special Cinnamonted Coffee.....I am craving for it ...Dhruv said pleadingOfcourse....she replied with a smile looking at hereven I don't mind that...but..joined in Nishant adding a condition...I know your Coffe will not have Cinnamon in it...Sukh joined in cutting him mid-sentence...Wow!!!it's a new thing about you why was I unaware...and Sukh I didn't know you knew it...Dhruv said surprised coming across the new fact about Nishant... Nishant too was shocked with the revelation...... actually I..I read it on an interview...Sukh said stammering looking for a reason.. I will send your Coffee ASAP!! she voiced and hurried outside...Impressive isn't she...Dhruv said reaching for some files at the tableHuh!!!he asked tring to get tracks of what he just said as was lost looking at her heading out...Yes!!! I mean have you ever come across someone who takes her work so seriously...Dhruv Complemented her..Yup I must say I am fascinated!!! she seemed to be really dedicated... Nishant added....Oh forget that!!! Tell me why I am having the pleasure of having your glimpse today....asked Dhruv again asking for the reason for his arrivalWell I will be hosting a house Party tomorrow and both you and Rishabh are invited....he said shifting his gaze to him with a small smile still thinking about her...Are you serious!!! He exclaimed...Ofcourse!! I am...he remarked.. It will be a great event to catch up with some old friends before leaving...he addedLeaving ...where and why so early..???he asked puzzledYup bro I have some work so I will be leaving out of town; but don't worry will be back soon....he comforted..Ok so for now tell me more about it....asked Nishant about the project theme redirecting the topic as they continued their conversation ...Later that afternoon.... At the Conference Hall..So I would like to say that as we have increase in the annual turnover it will turn out to be ..... Rishabh voiced discussing about the future plans and projects of the Company and the Marketing Strategical changes they would like to practice for the betterment of the Company with the staff of the executive floor and Marketing department and everyone was hanging on his words......He was stressing on every point when Sukh's phone rang incoherently again much to her surprise as she has already told everyone to not to call her during Office hours ....she disconnected the call thrice but her thoughts was still occupied about the unusual incident....her facial expressions reflecting agonization she looked at him thinking about asking his permission but stopped herself looking at the people around her..I think it's important you must take it Ms. Mehra!! Rishabh permitted sensing some trouble...Thanks Rishabh Sir...excuse me...she said before getting out excusing herself from others...She quickly dialled the no and was about to speak but heared Roohi panicking on the other side...Rooh!!! what's wrong dear is everything alright....she asked worriedJiji Dad is unconscious....I just called Kapoor Uncle... please be home as soon as possible...Mom is really worried...she said with broken words between her sobs...Don't Worry Rooh, I am coming.... I will be there soon, stop crying take care of Mom Ok ... I am coming shortly.. just don't worry Ok!!!... she said disconnecting the call and rushed inside the Conference Hall to get her bag and Scooty keys...Sukh is everything alright!! Rishbah asked concerned....Sorry Sir there is an urgency I need to rush ...I am taking a half day off ...I am extremely sorry she said with trembling lips and carried her bag and tears fall uncontrollably from her eyes...Is everything alright!!...he asked again but in vain as she stormed outside without replying him...We are done for the day... announced Rishabh and ran behind her without thinking or waiting another second...He ran to the basement to see her getting out of the elevator......Suddenly she was yanked back by her arm and she turned to look at him worried...Sukh wait let me drop you ....his words were wrapped with concern...No it's Ok ...I will...she tried opposingThere is no room for argument Sukh come with me ...he ordered and seated her to his car's front seat and self went to the Driver's seat....Throughout the journey unstoppable tears were flowing down her eyes as she folded her arms praying under her breath....he looked at her through the side of his eyes and with every tear his heart felt to be shattered into pieces...Dad is unconscious ....Mom and Roohi are alone in house...Roohi sounded so worried....  Umamaherwar!! please be by our side...Kapoor Uncle will be reaching...God bless everything to be fine...she mumbled praying again and again ....Everything will be alright Sukh we are on the way he finally managed to say....helding her trembling hands...she looked back to him with eyes filled with tears which he wiped with his thumb and gently squeezed her hands comforting her...Soon they were outside Mehra Residence and she ran inside her home followed by Rishabh...Much to mitigate her worries was the sight before her of his father sitting over sofa while Mr.Kapoor was checking his B.P and Roohi and her mother stood beside himShe took a breath of relief and ran to him... she took a seat beside him and holding his hands started crying her heart out....It's Ok beta I am fine...there is nothing to worry about...look at me I am fine...he tried consoling her but she didn't left his side for a while...You scared me Papa I was so worried...how come you went unconscious...what has happened...she wimpered asking...Nothing it was just!!...he tried making an excuse....but was cut off by Mr.Kapoor who saidDon't lie to her Mr. Mehra ....in a scolding toneWhat's wrong Kapoor Uncle she asked concerned...It's nothing to worry about Sukh beta it's just he is being careless towards his health ... ignoring his bp and sugar regulating pills ...he said looking to him disappointed .....She looked upto him flaring  While he gave everyone a sheepish smile to escape everyone's scolding....It's Ok sometimes even Dad forgets about his medicines... Rishabh came to the rescue.... dragging everyone's attentionSorry I didn't introduced myself I am Rishabh Malhotra...he said introducing himselfEven we apologise to keep you standing ... joined in Sukh....Maa he is Rishabh Sir my boss CEO of Malhotra Industries... he came here to drop me!! She said bringing him inside holding his hand introducing Rishabh to everyone..Namaste!! greeted Rishabh folding hands in respect...Khush raho beta...khoob tarrakki karo...Aap Sukh ko yaha drop karne aaye that's so kind of you...(God bless you son that's so kind of you that you brought Sukh with you)...she must have troubled you a lot actually she is very attached to her father......she said blessing Rishabh ...Aunty abhi aapne beta kaha and now you are addressing me to be kind and altruistic....dono ek saath kaise hi sakte hai hum!!! ( Aunty just you addressed me to be your son and now you are complementing me saying I am kind I can't be family and a stranger together...) he replied smiling...I will like to take your leave...he said asking for their permission for leavingItni jaldi kaise beta it's almost time for lunch hope you don't mind joining us....asked her motherIt's Ok Aunty!!! why would I mind...I will surely join you someday later...abhi kuch kaam hai....(I have some work now)..he tried reasoningRishabh Sir.. Please... pleaded Sukh and he nodded sighingsoon he was seated at the small Hall of Mehra Residence ....pro tem Roohi served him Coffee.... while Sukh was with her mother in kitchen...         Hello I am Roohi nice to meet you... introduced Roohi herself smiling amaze to see him quite as heard of him being angry all the time... Well I know you by your name Rooh!!!great to see you too... smiled back RishabhYou didn't sound grumpy at all... mumbled Roohi to herself...Well I guess even you like to speak to yourself like your Jiji...he chuckled on his own remarkNo it's not like that I was thinking would you like to have a tour to our home...I mean I know it's not as big as your Mansion so you may not like it....she said unsure of his answerand why do you feel I will not like that...he asked amazedIt means you are up for it...she said astonished and elated with his remarkOfcourse ...he repliedGreat then come with me....she said standing up readilyLet me finish my Coffee first...he said looking g down at his CoffeOops Sorry!!...she apologizedIt's alright....he said gulping down the whole cup at a go...Let's go....he proposedThis is our room and our wall of fame.... she showed him eagerly a painted wall decorated with photo frames and their laminated Certificates and degrees...beside it was a table filled with trophies and medals...I must say Roohi I am fascinated by this...he said trolling his eyes over every picture on the wallWe had many other in our old house too..they were the ones Sukh Jiji won at school....we were not able to get them along us...she said sounding a bit sad...You miss your old home...he asked looking at herSometimes...but I like it here too..she added...Here look at this!! she showed him the Winning trophy of National Science Competition...this is my latest one!!...Wow it's the prettiest of all..he praisedThank You Rishabh Sir...she repliedWell I am not your boss you can call me Rishabh...he asked amusinglyI guess you are right I am not legible to call you Sir...I will call you Rishabh Bhaiya...guess you don't mind having a sister...she relied after thinking for a whileWell I would love to have a sister he replied smiling....So you guys are here...comeon the food is ready...enounced Sukh coming inside the room as was looking for them already..Coming Jjji...  Chaliye ji bulava aa gaya... announced Roohi..After you sis... Rishabh stated standing aside paving her way to leave as she is the princessHope she didn't troubled you with her blabbering...asked Sukh unwwre of the beautiful conversation they had in a small while..Not at all I guess she is a better companion... Rishabh smirkedGreat to know that...Sukh chuckled tooSoon all of them were at the the dinning room and this time Roohi helped her mother setting the table...Sitting arrangements were like Rishabh and Sukh sat together while her mother and Roohi sat opposite to them and their father sat at the head of the family table....They started having their lunch together with many small talking sessions in between... and most of them were their Childhood tales....And you know what's her childhood petname name was....Roohi comprehended out of the blues..Rooh please don't...Sukh stopped her from saying it..Well I don't but I am eager to hear that.... Rishabh showed eagerness...Phirni...joined in her father laughing...What !! He asked amused...Yes Phirni because she used to love it... confirmed her mother making him laugh heartily while Sukh was embaressed and covered her flushed face with her palm.... he even came across the fact that Sukh is a trained and qualified Kathak dancer and holds a degree in it.....time spent in a flow as they continued .....Later that afternoon at Malhotra Mansion....Mr and Mrs Malhotra were enjoying each other's company playing Chess together....Check made... enounced Mr.Malhotra with a smile of victory...Congratulations!!she replied half hearted....What's wrong dear where are you lost at..asked Mr. Malhotra looking at her perplexed...No it's nothing...she replied..Do you really think after so many years of togetherness you can hide your feelings to me..tell me what's bothering you Sukhmani... insisted Mr. MalhotraMalhotra Ji..we are invited for Mr. Batra's daughter's baby shower...she proclaimed..So..he asked bewilderedand also to Kunal's wedding next week ...she addedOh so you are worried because the dates are clashing.... he interrupted thinking she is worried on such a small thingDo you really think I am a dumb and will be worried over these small topics...she shouted pissed...Then ..he asked confused..Rishabh is turning 29 this year and I want him to get married soon....she sighed...You know about him Sukhmani we can't force him he is Oriented and Committed more to his work now...Mr. Malhotra tried to make her understandweren't you business oriented but you got married at the age of 23 ..my son is running late by 6 years...I don't know anything I just want to see my daughter in law soon in our house...she announced her wish authorativelySo did someone approached you with the marriage proposal...he interrogated back sensing some discomfort in her attitudeYes I have some marriage proposals but deep down I know they are not apt for our son, he must marry a girl who can understand him, who can make him laugh, who will love him unconditionally and can make him love her.... she stated qualities of her would be daughter in lawSukhmani ji I guess you are hiding something do you have someone in your mind...have you already someone pictured someone as his bride...asked Mr.Malhotra looking at her excited when she proclaimed him the qualities she dreamt..Yes Malhotra Ji ...I like Sukh and I think she can be the best life partner for Rishabh ....she finally spoke her heart outYou know I can see his different side when he is around her....she added and he chuckled at her reply making her more confused...Well what if he is in love with someone else...he stated adding conditionI don't know about that and I hardly think this is the case... I want you to talk to him...he listens to you...she asked holding his hand affectionately insisting himOk!! I will have a word with him...he said reassuring herHey Mom!! Hii Dad!!... Rishabh greeted entering the place ..So who won !!!he said looking at the Chess board unaware of their conversation...It's me again!!! his father announced proudly....Well done Dad!! Congractulated Rishabh..Yes because he cheated...his mother proclaimed...I didn't cheated..he protestedYou know it yourself...she stated making him realise that she knows the truth already...Fine I apologise!!...he said dejectedDad you always loose to Mom in this game and when you win is that too because of your tricks...he mocked..I lost to your Mom in the game of love Rishabh son what about this game...he winked looking at her making her blush...I think the conversation is going to the other direction... he mumbled getting up..Well it's great you are home early...join us on lunch...she proffered..Sorry Mom I just had lunch ... I didn't had any major tasks at Office today and am already feeling tired so headed back home....can you please send me Coffee upstairs...he said rejecting the suggestion heading towards his roomTired!!! are you alright..do you have temperature...she asked concernedNo Mom I am fine don't worry ...I will see you guys in evening just thinking about taking a nap...he addedOk Rishu you go and change I will send your Coffee upstairs..she agreed without exaggerating it much..Thanks Mom ... See you Dad!! He said bidding farewell..Rishabh looks too happy today isn't it...commented his dad..Did you heard him he said he had his lunch ..voiced Mrs.Malhotra reconsidering his words...So ... he asked having no idea what's going on again in her mind...So he never eats outside unless it's an urgency or business meeting...she stated another fact about Rishabh...What's the point...he asked flabbergastedI guess you are right he is in love with someone...I really hope that's not his secretary Lavanya...I don't like her at all...she said doubting the sudden changes in his behaviour...Don't criticise her afterall she is his only friend around he may have a liking for her...he tried making her understand..Rishabh's choice will always be my priority with the condition...she said mumbling the last part..and what's that...he questioned...Nothing I just want you to have a word with him ...and if there is any such matter ...I want to know about the girl...what if she is not Punjabi...she wondered biting her nails..dekho ji chahhe jo bhi ho (No matter what...)I want my daughter in law to be a Punjaban girl...she announced proclaiming it..Ok Mrs.Malhotra..don't worry aapki bahu waisi hi hogi jaisi aapko chahiye..  ab toh lunch kar lete hain...bahu ki fikr mein pati bhukha hai aapka... ( Ok Mrs.Malhota as you say your daughter in law will be according to your wishes...now let's have lunch ..you are being worried for your daughter in law leaving your starving husband...) he teased her...Ji abhi laaye bus aap baat kar kena aaj hi Ok...(I'll just get it just have a word with him today ...)I want a confirmation...she uttered before leaving...Haan ji mil jayegi aapko Confirmation report...ab chale ...(let's seal it you will definately get the confirmation report today...let's go now..) he answered in an employee like tone...Ji ...(Yes...) she agreed..Later that evening : At Malhotra Mansion:Dhruv and Rishabh are at their study discussing some files and Contracts... while Rishabh is fully dedicated to work Dhruv is trying to redirect his attention towards something else.....It will turn out to be very good if all this goes well... Rishabh said closing the files ...Dhruvi where are you lost... he asked breaking his reverie...Yes I got you.... it will turn out to be like the feeling of being loved...he repostedHe closed the file abruptly looking at him and turned to ask...Dhruvi are you in love with someone....Love is not my Cup of tea Bhai why are you asking this question to me what made you beleive that....he said recovering from the shock he just got ...Because It's been an hour we are discussing work and you are turning everything into a romantic quote or a love note ...he stated seriously...But there is a different side of this story too aapki ankahi Aashnae ke kisse chal rahe hai hawao mein aur Maa ke dimag mein...( there are tales of your unsaid romance flowing in air and Mom's mind ) he said mocking...Huh!!! he asked bewildered st the revelation..And you know I am assisted with the work of having and watch on you...he added chuckling..What that's silly!! he slightly reprimandedHaanji she thinks you are in love with someone...he said again revealing everything to himOh..so that's the reason Dad came to confront me about the feelings of love... I thought he is cherishing his bond with Mom but that was all for me....he said realising the motive of his evening conversation with Dad..The moment I returned home I was asked a trillion questions about the girls around you...he said making a puppy face as he is tired covering for himThat's weird...he criticised..Bro that's not weird that's lucky ... Usually mother hate a boy's girlfriend and here they are encouraging you to have one ...abhi hum ja ke keh de kisise that I have a girlfriend I will be kicked out of the house...he said sounding demotivated putting himself downI guess there must be a marriage proposal and so she is again on Get me a daughter in law mode...she will forget it soon ... Rishabh said to himself still thinking about the reason of her sudden demands of getting him married....Well things tend to be different this time she is admanant on getting you married....added Dhruv warning him making sure he gets what's there in her mind......Just then a message popped in Dhruv's screen which he soon replied smiling... Are you really ingo girlfriend thing interrogated Rishabh...Bro stop doubting me...I was just mocking you ...It's a message from Nishant bhai ..he is apologising to Cancel the Party...he uttered looking at him..was he planning to throw a Party ... Asked an astonished Rishabh...Yup he personally came to invite us today.... You were stuck with the meeting and by the time we reached your department we were informed you vanished from there without informing anyone... Where were you by the way...he interrogated back winking at himNothing it was just something personal...Rishabh shrugged the question...Personal matters with family which can make you blush...he teased feeling amazed with his words...Dhruvi I am not blushing Ok... let's focus on this now...he said pointing towards spike of files lying on the table...Now even I feel you are in love....he pondered looking down...Ok ...let's resume..he instructed diverting the topic and he oblisedThe same night:-It's almost midnight and Rishabh was sleeping soundly in his room when woke up suddenly to comprehend he had the same dream again,  he was again kissing Sukh in his dreams....What's wrong with me!!! why can't I get over this stupidity...he mentally cursed himself....He kept staring blindly the ceiling of his room keeping no trace of time trying to figure out what's the reason behind all this dreams which are keeping his mind captive....Maybe it's because all the love lessons I have received from my family in this short span that even my mind is indulge in making me feel that I am in love or something...he finally analysed about himself starting a inner conflict in thoughts...Upar se aaj Dhruvi ko ek aur point mil gaya hume tease karne ka ..but he is not wrong...meeting ko aisa beech mein chod ke chale gaye hum...aisa toh pehle kabhi nahi hua.... (Moreover Dhruv got an new poi t today now he is gonna tease me upon leaving from the middle of the meeting..but he has a point this time I never did it before for anyone...so why now)....he questioned himself...par kya karte I couldn't have left her alone...she looked so disturbed..God forbid agar accident ho jaata uska ....hey dont think like that aise kaise usse kuch bhi ho jata I will never let anything happen to her.... ( What else should I have done she looked so disturbed...Gid forvid she could have had an accident ... Shut up!! how could an accident could have happened to her, I will never let anything wrong happen to her...) he assured himself after defending his actions....Aaj pura time woh Car mein chup thi par hume yeh itna effect kyu kar raha hai...even I used to think of her to be so talkative..par aaj I terribly missed her nonchantly talking without any filters like she usually does.... uske aansoon se itni takleef kyu hui hame...hum kyu chahte thay ki kisi bhi tarah wo chup ho jaye ...itna fark kyu pada hume uske dukh se... (She was silent all the way to her home today...but why is her silence effecting ke so much even I used to think of her to be over talkative but what's been wrong with me that I am terribly missing her non stop chatters...why am I being affected with her tears why I wanted to wipe all her sorrows today...why is she affecting me so much...) he asked himself incrudled, surprise of his own feelings ....I must stop talking it otherways...I just care for her like I do for others...nothing is so extravagant in it..aur agar hai bhi toh she deserves it(and in case I ma treating her special then it's all because she deserves it)...I putted her through so much unknowingly...I still remember the sight when she embraced me out of fear when she was struck in the storeroom...he reminsced the inciedents again...I must stop thinking and questioning myself...it's getting late I must sleep he mumbled to himself pushing all the thoughts away....On the other hand Sukh was pacing around the porch of her house staring night sky as her habit whenever she is worried with teary eyes....she was scared as anything when she heard her father passing out...it was like God is punishing her for breaking her promise for keeping a secret again....but she can't help but to keep it to herself as she already knew about the outcome...Her father is very loving to his family but she is still reminded of his rage...and outraging him again could bring serious recursions...moreover she didn't wanted to hurt him again...She was engrossed in her thoughts when a hand from back held her shoulders making her startle....She turned around to find her mother looking at her with love filled eyes...She quickly embraced her in a hug but later composed herself and asked...Mom you here ....do you need something, did Dad had his medicines...let me check him once again...she asked startled...Stop stressing about it Sukh he is fine and now in deep slumber... But tell me about yourself how you have been all this time when we were away it's been long we had a mother daughter talk...She said comforting herBeing away from you always hurts but I had a great time at Khurrana Villa ...you know how much they adore me; just like their own daughter...she assured her well being to her ....Ofcourse and what about Office....she asked again..Office has been good too we started over a new project, and our previous projects are very well appreciated...she said making her aware of the current situationThings are running good... she replied with a small smileAnd what about your boss...she asked with a teasing smile..I started adoring him more Mom...I discovered he is not as Grumpy and Moody as I thought of him to be..he is rather a nice guy... caring for all...she expressed with the feeling of affection and adoration in her words looking straight into her eyes....Ok...now tell me what's bothering you so much...she asked catching her off guard...Nothing is bothering me Maa I am just worried about the new venture and it's nothing else...she tried making an excuseSukh you can't lie to me and you know that...you know can't even look into someone's eyes when you lie..and you expect me to believe you... You can't keep secrets to me dear...she voiced sensing she is trying to hide something...You are right Mom there is something bothering me!!..but before I get started I want a promise by your side... you are not going to talk about this to Dad it will be between us...she stated adding conditionSukh you are scaring me...her mother asked worriedMom I need a promise first..she stated againOk I promise!!...she assuredTaking a deep breath she narrated... Mom you won't believe me but I meet him ... actually I had a meeting with him last evening...but we didn't spoke it was just a small encounter....So that's why you seemed so sad meeting us...her mother said wonderingMaybe I am not sure...Nothing changed in him except the looks...  You know the moment I saw him it was a termoil of emotions I felt ... I felt numb it was like I forgot how to speak... I thought I will say I hate you!!! loud and clear for him and everyone around to hear but the moment I saw him I reminsced all the good time we spent together....our childhood memories; every incident of past played my mind....and finally the last bitter memory where I tried to convince him that his Dad may cheat on us and he denied and misunderstood me to be wrong....she blurted at a go still holding Shashi's hand...I know I must hate him for whatever his family did to us...His father cheated Dad...we lost our house, our business, we had to shift here...our world turned upside down... But the weird part is I can't feel hatred towards him...she said between her sobs...I tried to open my mouth to speak something but nothing came out.... she narrated reminscing their encounter...Look Sukh it was not him but his Dad who cheated on your father... it's not his fault... she said consoling her caressing her hands...whatever happens happens for the good... though we had to shift here, we lost our business, lost our home but we started a new life here...may be that was destined...we can't do anything to it now...she stated in a matter of fact tone...Remember Sukh there are some decisions which we take for ourselves...we never forced you for anything...if you want to resign we are with you on that but running away is never a solution dear...you are not at fault...she hyped her confidence..But Mom how can I face him ....everytime I look at him I remember the time we spent together...the most beautiful moments of my life was with him.... You remember I used to stick around him all the time whenever he used to visit Ambala and now....I don't know what to do...she enounced dejected with the circumstances...I hardly believe he remembers me and that's a plus point for me in a way...it will be easy to portray things ...she criticised the situation...I would suggest you must have a word with him...Sukh I will still say don't judge him because of what his father did...you just said Rishabh trusts him a lot...be very careful before taking any step dear....I trust you but this is your battle....she said motivating her to face things which are bothering her emotionally...______________________________________So here's an another update...and we are at the end of the chapter...Hope you guys enjoyed it...See you all in the next update ........Till then love yourself and keep smiling 😊and yes Stay indoors to stay safe... take care of yourself and your loved ones...Enjoy your quarantine with family making every moment worth remembering and cherishing...and incase no oone told you today the world is full of beautiful people and your are one of them .. *top in my list..💖See you all soon...Don't forget to vote and comment....Would really appreciate your feedback....This is me Signing out... Bye:) :) :Â