Tag: #shortstories

5 Essential Life Skills for Success and Well-Being

In today’s cut throat world all of us are driven by success and each one of us wants to climb the corporate ladder to the top as fast as possible. Rightly so as the world is judging you by every minute, every second, every post and every story. The peer pressure in today’s world is the biggest killer – like it or not. While we all chase the so-called success, the bigger car, the bigger flat, club memberships, etc. we are unaware about the price we pay for being there and doing that.

While this mirage that we chase is illusive and can vanish with a blink of an eye. I suggest to build a more concrete foundation to remain afloat in today’s dynamic, ever-changing world. Here are a few virtues, I feel will help you build that foundation. While the list is not exhaustive, it can be a good starter.

PERSONAL FINANCE:

While finance play’s a major role in success, I am sure that many do not have an understanding of managing money. I have talked to many young, middle aged, Junior, Senior people in good positions and yet have no grip on how the money works. Unfortunately, this most important life skill is not taught in any formal university. I am not an expert in this domain but I am sharing my acquired knowledge on the same.

You be in any position, stage or elevation in your career, your savings or investments are the only reality. Not your CTC, not your bonuses, not your possessions. So, when you are in your hay days keep aggressively investing. I would only highlight points that you should be considering on personal finance to save yourself from the landmines.

  • Build a 3-month salary as your contingency fund. This is the first priority, your safety net.
  • Take a Term Insurance & Health Insurance at the earliest. At early stage this looks to be wastage but I personally believe that safety should be an important priority. In today’s world a simple hospitalisation could need lakhs and that derails your progress.
  • Do not fall prey to quick rich schemes, speculative trading, lottery, etc. Wealth is made with calculated risk; blunders are made when you rush to take risks.
  • Keep focus on your needs – question 3 times for any buy which is more than 10% of your monthly salary. I do not advice to be a miser but surely practice discretion.
  • Never go beyond 30% of monthly salary for Total EMI’s even if the eligibility is 55+%. This will keep you in safe zone for any mishaps. Life is very uncertain; it hits when it’s least anticipated.

This is not an exhaustive list and if you have any additions, please feel free to share in the comments box.

HEALTH:

Though this comes second in my list, its not the second priority. One should always keep health as the outmost priority. And by health I do not only mean physical, this should cover physical, mental, social, etc. while discussing with quite some professionals I realised that stress is rapidly becoming a buzz word. Whether it is because of job timings or politics at work or peer pressure, the reasons are many but result is one Burn Out. Now we might not be able to dodge these issues but we can surely find a way through them to safe guard our mental sanctity. Now I am aware that there is no One size fits all solution to this. But let’s have a look at a few pointers that work for me in managing myself.

  • Try keeping yourself away from one-to-one comparison. E.g. He and I were at same level now look at him / he was my junior in some company and now he is at this position / he owns a penthouse or specific brand car or his kid’s study in ivy league college or he has expensive club membership. All these are just pressure builders. No one knows the other person’s journey yet everyone just compares start to current situation. Refrain from the same and you will be very happy. There are no free lunches – if you achieved something you surely sacrificed something. I strongly believe that Life is a Great Leveller.
  • Learn to say NO. Very often the reasons of our own anxiety are our own decisions. Do not expect life to be fair – it’s not. You have to figure out your priorities and say NO to what does not fall in that list. We keeping saying yes to all some times motivated by the raise or promotion, sometimes driven by the fear of losing the job or any other vulnerability. But future is very uncertain. You can only control present so do that. Do what needs to be done today.
  • Keep some time for Self-Growth & Family. Learn from kids, they are always happy when they are doing things that they love, with people they like. Human needs are very similar. Prioritise family time and self-time. Even a small walk in the park with your partner or best friend relieves the tension of entire week. A small chat with some one you love to talk to will refresh you. Find things that Re-Charge you and the keep repeating them.
  • Another action that breeds stress is living too much in Past or Future. Refrain from the same. A study by Cornell University suggests 85% of things we worry about never happen in real life. You also can not change the past. So, take one step at a time and stay in present. If you analyse your past, you will find only regrets. Remember the famous dialogue of Morpheus from Matrix Reloaded when they come out from meeting the trafficker of information Merovingian “Whatever happened, happened and could not have happened any other way”. Trust the Universe.
  • Remember “Action Defeats Stress & Anxiety. Stress & anxiety feed on lethargy”. So, stay active. Whenever you feel that you are getting stressed or anxious, pick yourself up and go for a run or walk or hit the gym or play with kids, etc. Do some activity – this will keep you healthy both physically and mentally.

SKILLS:

We all get paid for the skills we attain over life time, not for the degrees or positions or possessions. We all are paid for what value we bring to table. Whether its job or business or any other engagement. Way of payment can vary, the currency could be money or attention or respect or etc. but if you do not add value, you will be sidelined. What is important is staying relevant in current times.

  • As you age and move up the ladder, the best skill you can attain is to Unlearn & Relearn. World is changing fast and it is a lot of work to stay abreast if you carry the baggage of your old thoughts, old ways, and rudimentary thinking. Get rid of what does not suit today’s requirements, make space for new, learn what keeps you aligned with today’s world.
  • Study the people in positions you want to be in. Their job responsibilities, demands of their jobs, there skills, there schedules and try working along those lines. Learn what you do not know, unlearn whatever is not needed. Often times when we look from below, we feel the jobs at the top are quite easy, but its not that way. As they say “Heavy lies the head that wears the crown”. Respect the position – you cannot achieve what you despise, instead grow your knowledge, attain the needed skills, be worthy without the title and it will come to you.
  • Normally we have a habit to cursing the younger generations but that has not helped. It did not help when we were the younger generation and it will not help even today. So, get used to the norm of new replacing the old. Be the guide you never had, to this young generation. You have your skills they have their agility. Try channelling this in the right direction. Be the mentor not the Boss. The Organisations will crave you and your colleagues will love you. It does not take much effort to understand others and align accordingly.

COMMUNICATION:

Humans become the most dominant species on earth due to communication. But in current times its more imperative to hone and sharpen this skill. While there can be a completely new blog on communication, its types, its impacts etc. But here I will just focus on communication in broader sense. While I will not delve in the written communication as reading will help you in getting it better, I would like to focus on inter-personal communication.

You may be a genius but if you are unable to have a conversation with others, you will be left to dry. So, make yourself conversant with ways of interactions with others. Conversations at different level have to be different, you can not discuss same topics with kids as you do with teenagers or your age people or the elderly. So just focus on following aspects:

  • Be conversant of the current events – you do not need to follow the same to the T. But be conversant. Whether its Cricket or Wimbledon or Politics or Geo-Politics, stay abreast with latest happenings.
  • Conversation is best when it happens at the level of the one you are having it with. If its kids, it should be as it happens between to kids, when it is with the Business Leader it should be like two business leaders are talking.
  • 3 aspects are very important in interpersonal communication. Topic, Expectations, Responsibility. Communication should always address these. What is topic of discussion, what are your and others’ expectations and finally what is the action plan with responsibility and timeline.
  • Communication has to be assertive and all encompassing. It should address everyone involved & their needs in the communication.

You can surely have some more points in this and I would love to hear them in the comments box. Please feel free to add your experiences.

Last but not the least

GIVE BACK:

We all take a lot from others, our society, our relatives, mother earth, etc. but we often postpone our give back. Focus on your contributions to all of these. Whether its your time or monetary or influence, etc. in whatever way you can give back you should. Even the smallest act of kindness like donating the old toys to road side dwellers or donating groceries to an old age home or spending time with the elderly in a park, etc. whatever suits you will be welcome.  World is drifting apart due to technology and speed of lives; we tend to forget that we also will grow old and we also would be in need of support. So, while you can contribute – do so. It also keeps you light and humbled. We always feel our troubles are bigger than the world, this gives you an opportunity to know other people and their struggles up close. This will also bring you calm and you might just start appreciating what you have.

So, just to reflect on what we discussed: to have a wholesome life one can focus on remaining healthy physically and mentally, attaining requisite skills to stay relevant, have strong control on the personal finances, work on bettering the communication and practice giveback.

Hope this article helps you improve your quality of life.

Please do comment on what impact this has had on your life.

The Illusion of LOVE.

Jasmine picked up a ringing phone, it was from Dr. Chaddha’s clinic. They wanted to confirm her appointment today for 5:00 PM. Dr. Ravinder Chaddha was a very reputed Gynecologist and was one of the best in his field. He was about 40 or 42 years of age, well-built about 6 feet height, fair complexion, smiling face. Always treating his patients with high empathy and care. A friend had recommended him to Jasmine.

Jasmine was a bit skeptical while on her way to the clinic. She had not felt very comfortable on her last visit. she had her own apprehensions about the doctor, but his reputation was spotless for more than a decade. But somehow the way he looked at her, touched her, made her feel uncomfortable. Call it the woman’s hunch or intuition but she felt anxious while the doctor was around.

On reaching the clinic she found that there was no one at the reception and no one at the waiting lobby as well. She was nervous and had butterflies in her stomach. She peaked in and found that doctor was all alone. She knocked at the door and doctor welcomed her quite warmly. She calmed her nerves and went in. Doctor inquired about her travel and initiated other general discussions to comfort her. When she felt at ease doctor asked her about her issues. She apprehensively shared her troubles and doctor asked her to lie down on the inspection table. She hesitatingly did that.

While she was on table and the doctor was inspecting, she felt that there was an injection given to her and she got surprised and scared. She got up and asked the doctor what was happening, and doctor almost rejected any such thing happening. She was very angry and picked up her stuff to leave. She was just about to reach the door while she felt that everything was rotating around her, and she was unable to reach the door. She fell on the floor.

Jasmine was slowly gaining consciousness. She was feeling great pain in her abdomen. Her eyes were refusing to open, head was feeling heavy and hands had restricted movements. She was unable to grasp on what is happening to her. Where is she lying? Why is she suffering such gruesome pain in her private parts? When she opened her eyes completely and tried to remember what last had happened. She was in shock now; she knew doctor has done some thing bad. She got annoyed at her fears coming true. She cried a lot out of pain and for help, but it seemed no one was listening.

Jasmine remained tied and pinned to the bed and was in this condition for quite some time. No one had visited, no water or food, etc. Her daughter Riva’s face was floating in front of her eyes. Jasmine had never left her 5-year-old daughter alone. Her husband Karthik would be taking a good care of her but he would also be searching for her by now. She kept on shouting and crying but all was in vain.

Jasmine was cursing herself and her luck, she did not know how to react or what to do to get away from here. Every now and then she found Riva and Karthik in front of her, she felt like they were just their and Riva would jump on to her and Karthik would cuddle them both in his arms. He had promised he would never let them both get hurt.

She heard footsteps approaching her, she realized that her abductor would be coming to her. She did not know what to do and so she enacted being unconscious. She sensed the person coming closer to her, she felt his hand on her body, moving, pressing. The touch was making her feel mortified. She still pretended unconsciousness. The man said, he knew she was awake, and he had heard her screams. Her judgement was absolutely correct, it was the doctor. He now started to push himself on her, she kept begging of him to let her go. Doctor kept on thrusting himself on her, not bothering about her physical or mental pain. It was like he was a completely changed man. Devil could be a more appropriate word. He left her in pain, again.

While she was going through this agony only one thing kept her hopeful and that was her faith in Karthik and his love. Once while they were on a trip they were walking on roadside in the mountains and incidentally Jasmine slipped into a small valley along the road. He panicked so much that he jumped on the rocks to hold her from falling. He injured his ribs to save her from bruises. This was before they got married. Eight years into marriage but Karthik was still like the kid who loves his toys. Tears would roll on his cheeks, if jasmine got hurt / had small burns in kitchen.  She had all those moments floating in front of her eyes while she surrendered into the arms of sleep.

Karthik, though was feeling very worried, he thought that his wife would have been at work or could have been to a friend. But when it was more than 24 hours and no communication from her, he knew something was not right. He went and did a police complaint, but police asked him to wait for another day and then they would take some actions. Till that time, he kept calling all the known people to check for her. Some of her friend told her about her appointment with the Doctor. He kept calling the clinic and the calls went unanswered. He fed this information to police the next day.

Police checked up and found the receptionist at the clinic. She informed that Jasmine did have the appointment with the doctor, the last one of that day. But the nurse had left early that day, and no one was sure, whether Jasmine came or not. Doctor being out-of-town for a few days, so the clinic had been closed. Doctors mobile as well was not reachable. He used to take these kinds of vacations to stay away from the rush of life. The CCTV of the building showed Jasmine entering the building but not leaving, and doctor leaving the building in his car. But this was inconclusive.

Jasmine woke up next morning by the approaching footsteps, and Jasmine got petrified. She thought now what? But to her surprise the doctor had bought some food and medicines. He cleaned her with lot of care, made her upright, fed her. Jasmine was so shocked that she could not utter a word, she was hungry, so she ate. She was feeling dirty, so she got cleaned up. Her mind was numb she was unable to understand what was real, the monster who raped her or this Doctor who took care of her. He left without speaking a word but displayed his poise and care. Jasmine’s mind was still to come to terms with reality. While she got confused at her state of mind and body, she was unable to forget her angel daughter Riva.

Since Riva’s birth Karthik started being more caring and protective about both. While Jasmine was delivering, he stood all the while next to her, holding her hand in his. He cried like a baby holding Riva in his hands for the first time. He was very sensitive about Riva & Jasmine. Once while Riva had just learnt to walk and seemed lost in a mall, Karthik panicked so much that he was almost running around the mall, talking to all security guards and other people. Finally, she was found in one of the trail rooms. He almost did not sleep the whole night and kept blaming himself.

Jasmine thought she had a wonderful family and now she might never be able to see them. They all loved each other so much and could not live without each other. She gathered courage and started asking, the doctor to let her go, she knew he was listening. She pleaded him for her daughter and husband and tried to bring in the emotional angle, but the doctor did not respond. She was thinking what would Karthik be going through at this time and thinking this she surrendered to sleep.

With the CCTV footage it was amply clear and both Karthik and police were sure that Jasmine and the doctor got missing from the same time, but they did not know whether this is linked or coincidence. While the doctors schedule looked planned and there was nothing to doubt. Police came up with a theory that Jasmine might have an affair with doctor and so they both vanished at the same time in his car. So, CCTV captured doctor leaving the building but not Jasmine. Also, the CCTV did not clearly show whether Jasmine was there or not in the car, so the theory could just be flawed. The only way this could be verified was by talking to the doctor. Police promised to do their best and asked Karthik to stay put at his home. Karthik left from police station and went back home.

Riva had her questions for him, but he had no answers to them. He told her, a princess story and put her to bed after promising that her mother would return home by the time she wakes up. He knew that he had lied but what else could he do. He himself was so confused, and worried and multiple thoughts troubled him, what if Jasmine got kidnapped, killed. What if she had an accident and no one knew, what if police theory was correct and she had run away with the doctor. Karthik felt like all these thoughts are doing a devil’s dance in his mind and he was like a child who has seen a ghost.

Jasmine had almost lost her hope by now and was thinking that once doctor is done with his lust, what will he do to her? She was terrified with the thought that he could just inject her with poison and let her die. She would never ever be able to see Karthik or Riva ever again. Now she was getting terrified, while a thought came to her mind, what if she lets doctor do whatever he wants in return to letting her live, will he agree? What if she pretends to have fallen in his love and try to escape? She decided to take a practical approach, so she can live and take care of her princess and Karthik.

When the doctor arrived a few hours later, she was a completely changed women. She courteously started conversing with him. She made him feel that he was so lonely, and she would make him feel cared and loved. She tried to touch his heart. Doctor was very reluctant with this, but finally he let his guard down. He started having some long conversations, Jasmine was still restrained. He did not trust her completely but had started opening-up with her. Jasmine made love with him and kept hammering him with his loneliness and how she could be the game changer in his life. The only thing floating in Jasmines mind while doing this was, she had to get back alive to her family, Riva and Karthik.

The next day doctor, freed Jasmine. He had brought her a nice dress; he took her to the bedroom. Once she got dressed, he accepted his love for her, and she reciprocated the same. He asked Jasmine to love him with all her heart and that if she agrees he will take her home, but she will have to keep up the relationship. She agreed and made love with doctor. She made promises and agreed that if someone asks her about her 5 days absence, she will tell that it was mutual. She had a strong belief that Karthik will trust her and she had faith in his love.

Doctor recorded all this on video and showed it to Jasmine. If she tried to go to police or tell her husband about the truth, he will show them the video of her making love and accepting her relationship with him. Jasmine told him that he did not have to do all this and convinced him that she really loved him, but she now knew that she got trapped in her own trap. The only thing she got worried about now, was the safe return to her daughter Riva and Karthik, so she kept playing along.

After exploiting her for one more night, they both left for there homes. Doctor knew he was going to receive the police as soon as he hits town, so he made the love story public. Police informed Karthik of the same. A few hours later Jasmine came home and hugged Karthik tight, while crying like a baby. Karthik was standing like a statue, he got shocked with what police told him and how jasmine was reacting. He decided to give her chance to explain. She just kept crying and hugging Riva for next several hours and spoke nothing. Karthik kept asking her about what the police said or what is her part of the story, but she felt elated that she is back and feeling guilty of what she has traded to come back. She fell asleep while making Riva sleep.

The next day, she woke up and Karthik was nowhere to be found. He has left for office and had left her a letter. He had accused her of adultery and asked for explanation. He had held her guilty for breaking his trust. He had accused her of being a bad mother. Surprised, she never thought of Karthik being so judgmental. She had faith in his love, there love. She tried calling him, but he did not answer. He avoided her. He came back home very late that night and that too drunk. Jasmine was never expecting this. She kept awake the whole night and waited for Karthik to wake up. In the morning, when he woke up, she faced him. She told him her part of the story, he was listening, but his disbelief was all over his face. She begged him to trust her, this is when he said that doctor has showed him the videos and all this fake tears and drama is of no use now. He just left.

Jasmine felt shattered, the man she loved so much got fooled by a 3 min video, the trust she put in him, the years of love and care, there daughter, all has vanished in thin air like a puff of smoke. She started thinking, was it ever real? Or was it just an illusion of love? She lost the strength in her feet and fell on ground. Her whole life was ruined. She felt like not living any more. She decided to jump of the terrace and end this agony once and for all. Just when all this havoc was going through her mind, Riva called for her, she came running to her with a bright smiling face and hugged her tight. It was like suddenly the sun shows up from the dark black clouds and changes the whole landscape. Jasmine was brought back to senses. She realized that she had been through this whole trouble to be with her princess. Though Karthik did not believe her, she must live for her lovely daughter.

She now decided that she is not going to let the doctor walk over this crime, and he will have to pay, she will make him pay. She knew this was not going to be easy and he is not going to just hand over the details to her so easily. She decided to trick him the same way he had tricked her. She told the doctor she wanted to meet him privately. Doctor was cautious but also a bit overconfident after all he had the video and he knew her husband believed it. He agreed to meet her in a hotel room. He said he will confirm her the room number once he has checked in, to remove the angle of foul play. She was more than ready.

At about 8:00 PM he called Jasmine to Hotel Angel room number 701. She was aware that this could be another trap for her. But now she was not worried as she had nothing to lose, after all she was dressed to kill. She went in, doctor was cautious, and he was weighing all his words and actions. She was very forthcoming, she had to catch the doctor pants down. She asked the doctor for drinks and he obliged. While the first two drinks the doctor still was skeptical, but she made him lose his guard by caressing him and kissing him. Females from any species could be very fierce when they are cornered.

With three drinks down, she tickled the right spots to make the doctor talk, she softly asked why did he abduct her, when he could have just asked her to love him, and doctor explained that he got fascinated with her beauty on the first look itself, he even fantasized about her. Now he was talking. She asked what the injection was, he used to make her unconscious and then take advantage of her. Slowly and carefully she made him accept all the wrong doings, also how he took that video and why. Once all of this was said, she called Karthik to the hotel room.

She told all to Karthik with the proof and that made him ashamed for not trusting her. Jasmine told him that this was not for earning his trust back, but to put things in perspective. She said she would be leaving the next day morning with Riva. Jasmine also realized that the feeling that Karthik had for her, what she thought as love was more possessiveness than love. Therefore, she thought that continuing with him will cause her and Riva more damage than good.

As to what could be done with the doctor, she left that call to Karthik. Jasmine also mentioned that no one knew he or jasmine or Karthik were in this hotel, no CCTV, no correct names, so it was all perfect. She hinted that she would have pushed him out of the window and with this much drink, no one can control himself. She left with tears in her eyes.

The Guardian Angel

Preeti had this special habit and emotional need to have a good cup of tea in the morning, with her loving husband Arun. She had made this as a ritual, waking up around 6:00 AM, getting ready and preparing tea. Arun however was a lazy starter of the day, he used to love being in bed as long as he can afford. Yet the pursuant Preeti used to always convince his presence at the table for tea. Arun as well would sacrifice his sleep a bit to see the glowing face and sparkling eyes of Preeti.

Both had married for almost 15 years now, yet the love was only growing. It was 15th marriage anniversary and Preeti was very excited, she was looking gorgeous with her new beautiful saree, hairs tied neatly on one side, the long earrings touching her smooth cheeks, just like what Arun loved. She had also planned a candle light dinner at home, and was waiting for Arun. The doorbell rang and she was happily surprised as it was early than the usual time of Arun. Preeti opened the door and she was let down a bit, as it was not Arun but Ritesh.

Ritesh, a smart, handsome young man, an IT Professional who worked at the same company where Preeti worked. He also stayed just in the adjacent society. Preeti used to share the ride with Ritesh.

Not expecting Ritesh – She was a bit irritated, but holding her feelings, she tried being courteous. Ritesh was carrying a bouquet of flower to wish her, on her anniversary. Though she was uncomfortable, she invited Ritesh in, offered him snacks. His energy was pushing Preeti’s discomfort out of the scene, his jokes and approach was making the atmosphere lively. After about an hour, he asked for permission to leave, Preeti was brought back to senses and she agreed. He left and she closed the door. She turned and found that Arun was standing in the balcony – she was taken aback.

She went to Arun and asked him when did he return? how long has it been? Arun mentioned her that she was so happy, he did not intend to interrupt the flow. She was feeling a bit guilty & she apologized for the same. Arun made her comfortable took her in his arms and soothed her.

In the morning, Preeti found herself in bed. What she could only remember was some great moments shared with Ritesh and a blank evening with Arun. She was unable to recall what happened after she went into the arms of Arun and closed her eyes with tears rolling down the cheek. She got up surprised to see it was 9:00 AM and she was all alone at home. She got up, got ready and saw a few missed calls from Ritesh, she quickly guessed, the same was to go to the office as they shared the ride. It was already 10:30 AM, so she guessed, that Ritesh would have already reached office, so she rushed to the office, hiring a cab.

On reaching she got greeted by others with a smirk, Preeti felt that, odd. She went to Ritesh’s desk and apologized, he shrugged it off. Rather he tried to pull her leg, asking what did she do with Arun last night, as she looked tired? She laughingly neglected the questions and moved on to her desk.

That evening it was time to go back home, after a tired day. Preeti tried calling Arun a few times but there was no response. Preeti and Ritesh started back home and were having a casual chat, the radio was playing “Pal Pal dil ke paas tum rehte hon” and this took her on a trail in past. This was Arun’s favorite song & he used to sing it for her, now and then. She was wondering on where, those wonderful days got lost? Why is it that she feels so stressed and tired by the end of each day? Why is it that she tends to forget Arun each day while on work and then evenings look vacant without him? She had some very compelling questions and no answers to them. She was so engrossed in her own web that Ritesh kept on talking and she did not even listen. It was her drop point and she got off the car. They shared good byes and Ritesh asked whether he should go with her to home as it was late, but she refused and left for her home.

On reaching home, Preeti found Arun in kitchen, cooking their dinner. She was furious on him for not connecting with her for all day long. He got on his knees and apologized. Took her hand and pushed her to wash room for a hot water bath. Once she was back he served her steam Rice with her favorite Thai curry. This brought a smile on her face and she had now lost her anger. Both of them had a great evening together, they kept chatting and she felt mesmerized.

She got up next morning with the cell phone ring from Ritesh. She got ready hastily and rushed to office thinking the great evening spend yesterday. She was also surprised to have not found Arun at home but she thought he would have left for his office.

Ritesh seemed very happy today, his happiness was making him a bit belligerent and he was not driving as his usual self. He was a bit more casual and punchy. He started racing the car and to their surprise, on came an old woman from one of the lanes. In an attempt to not hit her, Ritesh swinged the steering and the car banged into a parked truck. When Ritesh came to his senses he realized that Preeti had been hurt badly, while he was mildly hurt. He stopped the Taxi and moved her to hospital, she was still unconscious.

Doctors started the preliminary treatment and asked Ritesh to get Preeti’s relatives. He checked with office colleagues and no one really knew any relatives of Preeti. None had ever met any one or seen her with anyone. The only information everyone had was, that she had a husband by name Arun. But no one had the contact details of Arun. He also tried to get the details of her relatives from her society or the landlord, but mobile numbers were not in service. He left the message for Arun to get in touch with him on urgent basis.

Ritesh was now really surprised at how could this be? Can someone be so mysterious in today’s world of social media? How can one know a person for years and yet they remain unknown? He went back the memory lane and realized that he as well has never seen her with her husband or any one else at her home. He now had no alternative than to wait for her consciousness to return.

It took one whole day for her to come to consciousness, Ritesh was praying this all time. Once she became conscious he went to her and apologized for her condition. She was still not very conscious but kept on asking for Arun. Ritesh asked her to share the contact details and she asked him to get the mobile. She opened the phone and dialed Arun’s number and it did not connect. They tried several times and yet there was no connection. Ritesh asked Preeti for the company details where Arun worked, she shared the name.

Ritesh called the company and as the office had closed for the day, there was no response. He thought he will catch Arun at home and so he rushed back to Preeti’s home, but there was no one at the home. He waited and inquired but no one saw anyone enter or leave. Now Ritesh was really getting irritated at Arun. Preeti had been missing for almost two days and even after leaving so many messages with different people Arun had not contacted him.

Ritesh went to Arun’s office the next morning and inquired about him. To his surprise he came to know that, no one named Arun worked there. This was shocking. He lost his temper and was shouting at the receptionist. A man passing heard the names Arun and Preeti and inquired. He was Raj an old employee of the company. He said that there was a man named Arun working in this company, he also happen to have a wife by same name Preeti, but he had died in an accident about two years ago. Both Preeti and Arun were riding a bike and were hit by a speeding truck on highway and Arun lost his life. Preeti was pregnant and she also lost her child. She was quite shocked and went into complete silence.

Her parents took her back to himachal where they belonged. Ritesh’s mind was now numb. He was not being able to decide on whether both these Preeti’s, the one in his life and one in Raj’s story are same or different? Can this be so complicated or is it just a coincidence?

He asked Raj for a photo of Arun or Preeti. Raj said he can check with HR if they have a file photo. HR shared the photo and it was same Arun as seen in photos at Preeti’s home and her mobile. Ritesh was now absolutely stunned at this turn of events. His mind was unable to comprehend what exactly was happening? Did Preeti knew about this and faked a person for this long? Is she negating the fact that Arun is no more? Has she lost her mind? But how can a women so seemingly calm and composed, be mentally disturbed?

Getting some more details from them Ritesh got in touch with her parents, called and explained them the situation. Her father said that they do not respect any relationship with Preeti now. She is as good as dead for them. He tried to understand in details why her father was so skeptical about Preeti? Her father explained him that, Preeti had been very silent since Arun’s death. They tried to cheer her up and bring her to normal life but she never responded. She remained alone and kept on talking to herself. Even the Psychologist was unable to help her as she behaved erratically. To make it better we decided to re-marry her, she agreed and then ran away from her marriage. Since that day we have never contacted her and we do not care if she is alive or dead. He banged the phone and disconnected.

Now Ritesh was really anxious and wanted to know everything. His anxiety and questions could be put to rest only by one person – Preeti.

Ritesh rushed to hospital to meet with Preeti. When he reached there and told Preeti that Arun was found nowhere, she laughed and said “you have just missed him?” She mentioned Arun was here all night taking care of her and probably that is why he could not find Arun at home or office. Ritesh was short of words now and decided to hold on till she gets better and out of hospital and then take this topic for discussion.

Days passed and Ritesh took complete care of Preeti, may it be feeding her or helping her to walk or making her hair. Preeti still felt that Arun was around, but she also realized that Ritesh was always there to help her. Almost in last few days at the hospital Preeti complained that Arun is spending very less time with her now, Ritesh understood that she is remembering Arun less now. The scenario was still quite complicated as Ritesh had to pretend that he also saw Arun. In all of this Ritesh found that Preeti has taken a special place in his heart. He was in love with Preeti, but now came the biggest task, to make Preeti aware to the fact that Arun was no more and then try winning her heart.

Ritesh gathered the courage and started dropping hints about Arun’s absence. He used to hint at how about if Arun was not there? He used to refer Preeti as his wife, in casual way. She got to be a bit irritated but now was getting used to it.

It was time to take Preeti home and Ritesh had made all the arrangements for the same. On the way back Ritesh softly informed her that Arun is no more in her life. She was furious and cursed him for such a joke, he kept reminding her of that the incidences when she felt Arun’s presence were all her imagination. She was fighting with him for a few minutes and then felt heart broken. All her energy and anger drained off in tears. She surrendered to the fate and went into silence. Ritesh took her home, made her comfortable. He then made her tea & assured her that he will take care of her, for life. He tried to make her very comfortable and left after putting her to sleep.

Next morning, knowing that Preeti likes a hot cup of tea in the morning reached her home, but no one opened the door. He kept ringing her and banging th door, all in vain. He then broke through the door in the house to find Preeti dead in the balcony with a cup of tea, a letter besides her that said,

“Ritesh thanks a lot for being my guardian angel you are a gem of a person. I would have loved to be with you but I can not breach Arun’s trust hence I am leaving with him. Forgive me.”

Love – Past & Present

Ritu felt shocked to see Arjun.  Arjun was calm neither excited nor worried to see Ritu and Varun. He came to their table and introduced himself as Ritu’s best friend. Varun was in such jovial mood for their anniversary that he invited Arjun to have dinner with them. Ritu did not want this but she refrained from letting her emotions out, covered with a fake smile. Arjun joined them and the chain of discussions from the distant past started unveiling. The chain, that Ritu had long-buried in the deepest corners of her heart. The memories that she never wished to have. Those days in Pune, S.P.College, Chatushrungi Temple, Tulshi Bag, etc.  She was thinking that she had planned so much today and this happens.

Ritu had been busy all day planning a great evening with Varun for their anniversary. She planned a temple visit to seek blessings and a quiet candlelight dinner with Varun at his favorite restaurant. To enjoy this day with Varun she had also dropped their only son Krishna to her mother’s place.

It was 11:45 AM after finishing the chores she went on the checklist for her wannabe perfect dinner date – Table booked – check, special instructions to the live band – check, Gift – check, her evening dress – check…

She wanted this to be a memorable 10th anniversary. So she just about had her lunch and was looking at the gift wrapping and what struck her was an open corner on wrapping paper.  She felt an immediate urge to make it right, she knew, how fussy Varun always was about things being perfect. It opened the door of the old memory: she had bought a small gift for Varun when they were dating and in a hurry, the wrapping paper was not tucked properly. Varun did not say a word but his discomfort was showing all over his face. Ritu kept on asking what was wrong and he pretended to be happy. The secret got revealed later after they got married. This brought a smile to Ritu’s face and she got stuck in the world of memories. One after the other, memories came like she was pulling the handkerchief from the magician’s pocket and the same never ended. 

 She remembered how romantic those dating days were, they used to talk in gardens for hours, watch movies, had great dinners, walked hand in hand on lonely streets in sweet winters. There were a few issues in their marriage Varun’s parents did not approve of Ritu but he was adamant and went against all to marry her. Ritu being an orphan never really had a family but Varun had always been with her. It was not all rosy even after marriage they had there shares of struggle. When she was pregnant with Krishna and was asked to take the bed rest, Varun had taken such good care of her that she all most cried every time he used to feed her. Not only this but when Krishna was born and detected with jaundice she had all the most lost faith in his survival but Varun had been a strong support and Krishna survived the ordeal. 

It was not all Varun but when a few years back Varun lost his job, Ritu took on the responsibility of the family and started working, it was not easy and she had to manage a lot of stuff, Varun had become a little skeptic, Krishna was just about starting to go to school, but Ritu took full onus and kept her calm to stabilize their families rocking boat. Those two years were the worst for them. She used to get very tired and frustrated at times, but she held her nerve and Varun landed into a good job as a legal counsellor, she had a small breather and then she also joined an MNC, her talent in finance was strong enough to make her climb the corporate ladder and she was now heading the Finance department in a reputed organisation.    

In these 10 years, they had been through a lot of good, bad and ugly moments and both had complemented each other perfectly to make their relationship and their lives a great place to be in.

The doorbell rang and Ritu came again to her senses. It was 4:30 PM and her housemaid was home. She realised that Varun would be home in some time and she had to get ready now. Thinking of being blessed to have such a great life and wishing the same luck she went on to instruct the maid and getting ready.

At 5:30 PM Varun came home and he looked a bit tired but Ritu pushed him to get ready and both went on to the temple, after spending some good time and with blessings, they moved to Varun’s favourite restaurant and it was crowded and Varun was annoyed at the first sight, but when he came to know that Ritu had already booked a table for them, he suddenly got excited and realised that he is in for a good evening. He realised that Ritu had planned this. Once they were seated and comfortable, Ritu made a small gesture and the live band started playing his favourite songs. Varun was floored he looked at Ritu and his eyes were sparkling. Ritu was happy to see that look on his face. He held her hand in his and lovingly thanked her for all that she has done and is doing. Ritu calmly handed a small box to Varun, now he was excited, he looked in detail and found the gift perfectly made and was happy, he opened it and it was a wristwatch, the same which he had wished to have some months back. He almost jumped with joy like a kid. He was happy that Ritu bought him this gift but he was happier that she remembered. They ordered their dinner and just when the waiter was about to serve, Ritu saw Arjun. She tried to ignore him but he came straight to their table. That entire evening Varun kept on chatting with Arjun and Ritu was disturbed maintaining a fake smile on her face.

At night Varun went to bed and slept being tired. Ritu also slept wishing, the day could have ended better without Arjun.

The next day she found Arjun near her house, he also followed her to office. He tried to befriend her colleagues, talk to them, and get information. Ritu neglected the whole scene, but remained disturbed.

Varun was unable to understand the reason of Ritu’s irritation that night but he left her alone to settle down and went on with Krishna to sleep. She was unable to cope up with this turn of events. She remembered those old days when Arjun used to follow her everywhere. She never approved off him due to his bad habits and inclinations. He however was madly in love with her. He even had threatened to harm her and her parents if she did not accept him. 

Another day as usual Ritu made the tiffin’s and all 3 of them started for their work. Varun dropped Krishna to school and went to his office. 

Ritu on her way back from the office went on to pick Krishna and was shocked again, she found that Arjun was with Krishna and they were both chatting. She became very furious and lost her control. She went directly to Arjun and asked him the reason he was with Krishna. He replied in a rather annoying tone that it was not her prerogative to question him and he can be anywhere he wishes to be. The spat turned a little ugly and after a heated argument and ultimatum to stay away from her and her family, Ritu picked up Krishna and left the school.

She was hit by the old memory of the annual function where one of Ritu’s friend proposed her; she quietly turned down the proposal. This news went to Arjun and he beat the poor guy black and blue that night, the poor guy lost his life and Arjun was jailed for 5 Yrs.

This was really scaring her. Ritu was not able to believe how the destiny turns – the best planned day has suddenly turned into the worst nightmare. She was confused as this past was never shared with Varun and she did not know how he would react. To end this and get out of the situation once and for all, she went on to meet Arjun privately at his residence.  

During that meeting, she tried to explain to him that she was never interested in him. It was never going to work between them. She pleaded him to leave all and get out of her life. But he took her initiative wrongly and tried to force himself on her. She was in shock and was trembling, she never expected any of this, she tried to get out of his grasp, but he was strong and pinned her down. She moved her hand and found something; bang she hit him on the head, the blow was so bad that he instantly fell off the bed and was immovable; she checked and found that he was dead. She was terrified and ran out of there. Then suddenly she realised no one knew she was with him and she wanted to keep it like that. So she went and carefully eliminated all the signs which could link her visit to Arjun and left.

The next day the news was all over, police tried to investigate but due to his bad background, no relatives and no major proof the case did not go any further. Varun was shocked and asked Ritu, but she responded with a sad face and matter was over. After several days she was content that the matter has settled and she had been out of a huge problem rather easily, but she was again underestimating the turn of events.

As usual, she went to the office and the day was going normal, post-lunch she was feeling sleepy, so she went on with her friend for a coffee. They had a small chat and were refreshed and came back. Ritu was unaware of the surprise waiting for her in email inbox.

She stared at the email message on her computer, her mind was racing so fast that the words blurred together and no longer made any sense. Just three lines, but enough to make her life–the life she’d worked so hard and sacrificed so much to build–begin to crumble around her. 

The email read as follows:

“I saw him die. 

I have a video. 

I will call you”

Ritu could not believe her eyes and destiny. Her mind was racing to figure out who could this be? How could someone video shoot that? Is this real/fake? She went on from one horrifying thought to another, unable to link the dots and unable to think of a solution.

She went home but her mind was still in the email, she was not in her senses. Varun tried to understand what could be the issue, but she shrugged it off saying she was tired. A few days went by but the call did not come. She thought somebody would have joked with her and went on with the day.

In the evening when she came home she received a photo where she was entering Arjun’s building and the time punched at the lower right corner. The timing matched the time slot of his murder. She was again terrified, her mind was disturbed, she was trying to figure out who could this be? And she realized that this could only be available to the security guard of the building and he would be trying to get financial benefit from this. The cat was out of the box. She now decided to tell Varun all since this was out of her hands now.

That night she explained every detail of the past and the happenings of her visit to Arujn’s place and about the email and the photo. Initially, Varun did not believe on what he was hearing and he felt sad that she did not share this ordeal earlier, but gathering his senses and his lawyer mind, he thoroughly analyzed the situation and said that all the shreds of evidence are circumstantial and she cannot be proven guilty on the photo as she is visiting only the building and not Arjun’s flat. There is no other evidence, but he said let’s check with the blackmailer and then decide further.

Ritu felt relived and when the person called she asked him to meet her at her place. He was the security guard of that building. Varun had set a camera in their hall and had the meeting.  When Varun was sure that there was no other proof than the lobby videotape he intimidated the guard and showed him the recording where the guard tried to blackmail them. This put the guard on the back foot and he handed the CD to Varun and left. Varun also ensured that he will not trouble them again by taking in writing from him that he was doing all this for money.

That night both sat for several hours on the terrace watching stars and reliving the good old and haunted memories, hand in hand.

Intertwined Hearts

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I am Rhea and this is my story – well not mine alone story of 3 of us. No not me, myself and Irene types but almost the same. So Me is Me Rhea – Myself is my younger sister Piya and Irene of our story is our childhood friend Rohan.

We all lived in a calm and serene town and had lots in common, since childhood. Our passion for sports, specifically Badminton, love for music, craze for Sonu Nigam & Shahrukh Khan are a few to name them. It was a wonderful time and we lived, loved and enjoyed life. All was just like the dream come true – 3 friends, sharing all, competing, fighting, enjoying all that awesomeness.

I still remember the time when we 3 participated in a inter college badminton tournament and can you believe that I had to beat Rohan in semi’s and then Piya in finals to win the title. Finals were really tough but I managed only because I had more stamina than Piya. She was fabulous in that game. Well we 3 were on top of 25 Shuttlers in our town, and that’s not all, we actually huddled on the court when I won, as if we 3 had won at the same time.

Similarly when we had Sonu Nigam performing live in our town we almost tore down the complete house for a permission to be there & once we were there we were like lightening what an awesome night it was.

Sonu’s mesmerizing voice “Tera Milna pal do pal ka….”, “Har ghadi badal rahi…” etc. when I just slightly slid my hand in Rohan’s and he held it tightly. I could not have asked for a better last night. As we 3 had to part ways the next morning as Rohan was leaving for his Cardiology Specialisation, me to the badminton coaching and Piya was to be left alone at home – for 2 long years.

The time flies and we were back together again, these 2 years taught me a lot, I missed Rohan more than the beat of my heart even when I had two. I landed in town and went straight to Rohan even before I went home. I guess I realised that this was more than friendship and I loved him. I was now craving for his attention, that one look, that glance, that smiles, oh! This was love.

Is this feeling mutual, or am I the only one flying in this stupendous storm of love like a kite? Does Rohan share the same uneasy feeling when he thinks of me or is it just me who has butterflies in stomach every time his thought crosses my mind? Am I the only one being magnetically pulled towards Rohan or he too feels the need to be around me?

At this point what I was only thinking was to spend more time with Rohan, it was just like Piya was completely outcast by Rohan from my life. I shared a special bond with Piya – she was just a year younger but more matured than I was, the thinking types, serious one – boring to be precise at times. I was happy go lucky girl, bothered by nothing, worried about nothing, just living. Rohan was quite the balance of two of us, he was a kid when with me and an adult when with Piya.

Piya knew from my communications with her that I was being attracted to Rohan – we usually shared a lot of emails and chats in these 2 years.

Just when I reached and was about to ring Rohan’s doorbell, it started raining & there he was my prince at the door & beautiful rain drops kissing my cheeks, the aroma of that summer thirsty dirt like all her want for water was answered with a flash. I was so overwhelmed to see him that my arm remained raised to the doorbell even when he opened the door. He snapped his fingers to bring me on earth from my zealous moon voyage.

When I told him “I missed you!” and he too got a little nervous and blushed to accept the same. We had a little chat and decided to meet for dinner all three of us. We bid good byes and I kept on turning again and again to look at him and he stared at me till I was almost no longer visible.

When I mentioned to Piya about the dinner and my meeting with Rohan, her reaction was parched. She was a little drawn away and did not seem happy as if there was something weighing her down, silly me, Rohan was so much on my mind, I could not even notice her. She refused to join us for the dinner and I let her be.

Rohan had bought me flowers and chocolates for Piya, he was surprised as well that she did not join, but we were unsuspecting. The restaurant had a live orchestra and they were playing “yeh pehli mulakat ki….” I was blushing so much that I was unable to look Rohan, in his eyes for 5 minutes. Rohan noticed my unease and moved next to me. He held my hand in hand and I was feeling to be on moon. I clinched his hand and just closed my eyes, Rohan wanted to say something but I put my finger on his lips, indicating to listen the unsaid words. We both knew that we were in love.

After about 10 minutes the waiter brought us to reality, we shared each other’s experiences for two years over dinner and on finishing, took a long stroll around the moon kissed beach.

His fingers interwoven in mine, water touching our legs softly, and soothing breeze – it was like we were on a heavenly trip. A few steps ahead and there were rocks and we sat there, I had my head in his lap, his fingers were mingling with my hairs, I closed my eyes and shouted my heart out to Rohan and he reciprocated, Magical Moment.

We were both on the seventh heaven. He held my head and kissed my forehead, then my eyes and we melted into each other. The night was dark and silent but we could hear Sonu’s “Deewana Tera…Tujhe hi bulaya..” . We both were not in a mood to separate but it was quite late and Rohan dropped me home and left.

Piya was not home and mom had already slept. I went up to my bedroom and smiling and blushing, thinking of new found love and childhood memories running in flashback laid on bed, the eyes were so full of dreams that before I knew, I was asleep.

…. but as they say destiny has its own tale to say, I was woken up by a loud bang on the door and mom had lost her breath trying to tell me something, only what I could understand was Piya was serious.

My drowsy eyes opened with a flash and I was like thrown out of my bed, when we reached the hospital Rohan was already there and Piya was in dire state, she was hit by a speeding steel rods carrying truck and one of those rods has pierced through her heart. Doctors tried salvaging her situation but time was running out.

After a lot of inspection the only answer to Piya’s life was a transplant, but where could the heart be found at such short notice. Mom looked at me and I realized that it was destiny calling on me, to return the favor.

I was blessed with two hearts a Freak Mutation.

When I was been taken to the operation theater, I remembered a conversation with my mom several years ago:

“Are you sure, Rhea?” asked my mother.

Of course I am. Survival of the fittest, mother. I’m not going against Darwin. Also I don’t want unnecessary scars on my body.

It’s a known fact that we are all born to die. And frankly, I don’t understand why it has to be made into such a big deal. If it were not for my mother I would have said that to the bunch of people outside my house, some of them with young kids, shouting slogans, waving placards, literally wanting me to cut one of my beating hearts out. “Save A Life. Donate” they shout.

For someone who is one in billions, 7.125 billion to be exact, I expect to be treated better. Scientists are still befuddled regarding my condition that gave me two hearts in my mother’s womb. But years of research and sticking needles into me have led them nowhere, and they have labelled me as a freak mutation. It’s so rare literally one in all humankind – that they didn’t even name the anomaly (as they call it, I call it awesomeness). I wanted to name the condition myself, something on the lines of Rhea’s Heartawesome but doctors aren’t thrilled with the suggestion. Instead they want to cut one of them out and save a life. Huh?

An IQ of 180, increased concentration, exceptional athleticism and a phenomenal metabolism rate- are just a few boring benefits of an increased blood circulation. Why would I ever give that up? And the answer was – Piya.

The pleasure was that even if I was to go under the knife, the respite was the knife was to be held by Rohan. The Destiny had intertwined our three lives so closely that – both our hearts will now be beating for our savior Rohan.

Hope you liked this story – do leave you comments below.

You may also like the below story:

The Happiest Day – Destiny Calling

The Happiest Day – Destiny Calling

The Happiest Day – Destiny Calling

It was an amazingly rainy day, and Rishaan found himself trapped in the rain on his way to office. He kept on waiting for bus but guess it was stuck in the ever so increasing Mumbai Traffic. Chaotic as it was, the bus stop was leaking and Rishaan – well dressed for an important meeting was getting increasingly nervous and wet. Incidentally Diya spotted Rishaan at the bus stop and came to his rescue.

Diya worked at the Design Department of the same office. Though not friends, they had bumped into each other several times during lunch and other activities. Diya gave, troubled Rishaan the much coveted lift, reliving him from the embarrassment of being drenched at the meeting. This acquaintance shortly turned into friendship. Given the happy go lucky nature of Rishaan, this was the most anticipated.

Rishaan was a handsome, smart, well-built engineer and had recently joined. He was considered to be a talented young Turk who was looked up by his peers and associates. He believed in living the life to the fullest and in just over six months he was a heart throb in the company. A soft talking young boy is always a favorite with girls and it was true with Rishaan as well.

Diya had a charming personality with amazing talents and creativity; she had been in this company for more than 3 years and grown strongly. She was a very jovial girl with a philosophy of enjoying life. But as it is said that life has a different plan that you seldom expect, she faced a tragedy which turned her life upside down. She lost both her parents and younger brother to a road accident. Since then she became very reserved and though she upheld her professional life, she lost the hold on her personal. She went into a cocoon and also talked minimal.

There was a discussion between Rishaan and Diya and during the drive to the office and Rishaans flamboyant attitude, dimple on the right cheek, and the soft spoken nature, made its impression on Diya. On reaching office, she tried to shrug off this influence to work. In the afternoon Rishaan bumped into Diya at lunch again and offered thanks for the lift inviting her for the lunch together. She tried to politely refuse but insistent Rishaan won the argument. They kept on bumping into each other ever since becoming friends.

Six months went by and Diya and Rishaan became close friends, close office friends. It was a cold eve in the fresh new year and Rishaan invited Diya for a movie and dinner. She hesitantly agreed but confirmed that she will reach home and check the priorities and then finalize. They enjoyed the movie, laughed their hearts out and went for a gourmet dinner on a terrace top restaurant. It was the most amazing evening for both. Diya thought this happiness was long entitled, but she didn’t expect it from Rishaan. As the evening was about to end they took a walk back to Diya’s house and she felt the warmth of Rishaan’s hand in her. In some time she was wanting for more, they were both almost about to shed inhibitions but were brought to senses by a loud horn. They parted ways but Rishaan was now making inroads into Diya’s heart. She was not able to sleep the whole night and there was a conflict in her mind on whether it is right or wrong…. Finally she just left everything to the fate and surrendered to sleep at dawn.

Next day at office she was welcomed by a smiling face of Rishaan and a sweet girl besides him. He introduced her as Kiara – a new entrant in there office. Diya welcomed her to the office and there was a casual chat and introductions. Rishaan was her mentor.

Kiara was a sweet girl with some experience in the business and was supposed to take care of customer relations. Her nature was quite open and she was verbose, spoke her mind out. She was never able to hold the words in the head and her less experience of life and profession made this utterly clear. She was the one full of life and made the best with whatever situation she was in.

It did not take more than 3 / 4 hours for Rishaan and Kiara to understand that there natures are quite alike, there philosophies of life are in-line and they together were up for a great time. As decided the three some – Diya – Rishaan – Kiara met at lunch and it was fun, Rishaan and Kiara left no stone un-turned to enjoy themselves and also entertain Diya. Diya was quiet, calm, composed but excited and happy to be with these two full of life people. They all parted with new bonds of friendships forged.

That evening Kiara was happy at a good start, having Rishan and Diya to support her. Though she had her apprehensions  about the work culture, politics, etc. they both comforted her.

Rishaan called Diya and explained the desire to meet in the evening but she made an excuse and stayed away. At this point Rishaan felt a little odd given the exciting evening spent a day before but left the thought believing the excuse from Diya. The next day at office Rishaan waited at reception to meet Diya when she arrived and they had a small chat but she hurriedly left him. At lunch Rishaan purposely bumped into Diya and tried to strike a conversation about the beautiful evening and just when he was about to get a little overboard, Diya asked him to meet her in the evening to discuss some important things. She left without completing her lunch. Given the nature of Rishaan it made him quite confused at one thought he felt may be she will open her heart for the feelings about him, but then why was she so tensed? And why did she skip lunch? And why she was avoiding him for last 2 days? A lot of questions kept their swords hanging on Rishaan but he kept his cool and eagerly waited for the evening.

Finally the evening arrived and they both met out of the office and decided to go someplace quiet to discuss, just about time they were leaving Kiara called Rishaan and Diya and came running and excited and just could not control her excitement about her day and kept on talking, Diya though not interested but showed no feelings of disdain and kept on hearing. Rishaan on the other hand started enjoying the conversation after some time and almost lost the idea of meeting Diya. In the excitement he invited Kiara to join them and she agreed. Only when Rishaan looked at Diya that he realized that he has done a blunder and that Diya was very upset.

They went to a restaurant and Kiara played the host, Diya tried to keep herself engaged in the discussion but was at times left behind with the energy and enthusiasm of these two. Rishaan was feeling the discomfort of Diya but he was also feeling the vibrancy of Kiara. He quietly held Diya’s hand below the table and tried comforting her and drawing her into the conversation but after a while she was again secluded. The evening went by and Rishaan and Diya decided to leave in Diya’s car so as to get the time for discussion, but it was too late and they could not leave Kiara behind. So the three left, dropped Rishaan at his place and Diya continued with Kiara so as to drop her ahead. In a casual chat Diya asked Kiara how she felt about office, people there, etc.? and smoothly drifted her discussion on Rishaan, she found Kiara was blushing, when she discussed about Rishaan and she almost went into a dream like world in the discussion, just when she could have revealed more her drop point came and they had to part.

It was a mayhem in Diya’s mind as she felt both these guys are good people and this is getting intricate, she made her mind to disclose the facts to Rishaan as early as possible and if time permits immediately. She picked up the phone and called but Rishaan did not answer.

Next day at office it was a mess, their major client had some issues with their campaign. It was increasingly difficult to understand the client concerns from remote location so the manager told them to plan a trip to Goa. They were taken by a surprise. Rishaan was in-charge of the customer, Diya was a designer of the campaign and for Kiara this will be a strong learning opportunity about handling the tricky client. This was not welcomed by all in the same spirit, Kiara was excited to be with Rishaan, Rishaan was excited to be with Diya, and Diya was confused about the whole scene. Their minds were running bizarre with plans after the Friday meeting the weekend could also be utilized in the most happening destination of India – Goa.

They took an early morning flight to Goa, just when the seats were to be taken Diya took the Window seat with the anticipation that Rishaan will take the middle one, but just when he was supposed to get in Kiara got into the middle seat and Rishaan had to be on the aisle seat. As all of them were preparing for the meeting a night before they were all sleep deprived, and also Rishaan and Diya could not really discuss so they all decided to catch a nap.

In the middle of the flight, Kiara woke up to go the washroom. When she returned she was too lazy to push her way into the middle seat. And with Rishaan readily offering to shift seats, the seating arrangement changed. With 20 minutes still remaining for the flight to land, a sleep starved Kiara took another nap, this time holding Rishaan’s right hand more firmly. Rishaan’s other hand, though, nervously moved to touch Diya’s. Her heart skipped a beat. Diya pulled her hand away. But the defiant Rishaan held her wrist again, this time firmly and more reassuringly. The changing behavioral dynamics between the three perhaps gave out a foreboding of what was to come in Goa.

When the flight landed at the Dabolim airport, Rishaan felt uncanny…his excitement seemed replaced by an unknown fear that he found very difficult to decipher.

They checked in to the plush Resort & got rooms closer to each other. Rishaan tried connecting with Diya but her disinterestedness made him uncomfortable. Then in the meeting they successfully tried to convince the client and as the entire team was there the issue was efficiently resolved and customer confidence regained. They got quite good appreciation form there office and so they went on to celebrate in the evening. Rishaan and Kiara were high on sprit on this success and wanted to make it a memorable evening. Diya was happy but she as well was a little distanced due to her apprehensions, but Rishaan was not going to leave her as she was instrumental in today’s success. He ordered the drinks – to start with a small peg, the evening started getting exciting and Kiara was almost taken by the evening she planned to express her feelings to Rishaan by the end of this trip, Rishaan was excited and it was showing on his face, the success was one reason but he was planning to surprise Diya with a proposal. Diya had her apprehensions but as the first drink went in and the second, she started to loosen up. She was the old Diya now – carefree, jovial, enjoying every moment of life.

All three of them were at a very important junction of their lives, which was intertwined by the destiny in such a way that everyone is supposed to lose some and gain some or may be just lose it all….

In the flow of the moment Kiara drank too much and went out of control. This is where Rishaan called off the party and left with Kiara to drop her to her room but with a promise to Diya that he will return. Diya went off to her room. Rishaan cautiously took Kiara to her room and on the way unknowingly she expressed to Rishaan of how much she likes him and how she is eager to be together with him. Rishaan took this as words of a drunken woman and was more excited to meet Diya as he had his plans. He went on to Diya’s room and she was almost expecting him, she had shed all her inhibitions and was looking very happy and cozy to be in a room all alone with Rishaan. They spent some time appreciating each other’s beauty and then merged to become two bodies and one soul. The comfortably cold night as well sunk into darkness marking the end of the day.

The next morning when Rishaan woke up he was all alone in Diya’s room and Diya was nowhere to be found, just then his eyes rested on a letter near the bedside. He was a shocked to know that it was Diya who wrote a letter, she had mentioned that Rishaan was like a blessing to her and she was really lucky to be with him but this relationship has no future and what was ahead took away the senses from Rishaan – Diya was married. He was stunned and she had left him.

Rishaan spent some isolated time in the shower, gathered his senses and thought to have a look at Kiara but she as well was not in her room, on checking he got to know that she has already left. There was a envelop at the reception for Rishaan, Kiara in search of Rishaan came to his room in the morning excited about her drunk confession but found him in Diya’s room and Kiara had wished him luck with this relationship as they both are wonderful people.

The entire episode left Rishaan spell bound on the next morning of his most happiest day, he has lost it all.

Hope you liked the above story – you can also enjoy another story – Intertwined Hearts by clicking below link.

Intertwined Hearts
Short Stories