The sunny side of life !!

The sunny side of life !!

Jotsna firmly clutched Jack's hand and stamped her fingers over his upper arm. They were sitting in a desolated lounge near the Immigration check at the International Airport of Maldives.She leaned over him , rested her head on his shoulder while shivering inside .She was fidgeting, staring at the odd things that surrounded her. She felt as if she was amidst a cloud of enigma. Jack tried to console her with a gentle touch over her head. He kissed on her forehead and said "Don't worry darling, We will be out of this soon" !!

Far from his expectations  she broke contact, extricated and distanced  herself from him and shouted "Its all because of you !!! Just get away from me. I hate you !!", while whining like a school kid.

An incensed Jack, failed to arrest his anger and refuted back saying, "It was because of your carelessness. Don't you dare blame me for this. You are a sick lady!!"

The frenzied couple succumbed to their inadvertent situation.They occupied both ends of a five seater sofa . There was an air of silence. The same place which was surreal to them a mere six hours ago, turned into a disaster presently. They were desperate in getting out of it but they had no clue how to.

The shorter hand of the clock completed more than 3 rotations and neither of them spoke to each other. All they felt for each other was bitter "ANIMOSITY".

4 days back.....

"Did you call up the CITI bank customer care and alert them about our travel ??" Jo questioned Jack while packing up for their travel ahead.
"Yes, I did darling" responded Jack, who was busy booking a cab for the airport drop from his home.

 A happy couple, Jack and Jo,  recently got married after 3 years of intense courtship.
They are a typical 'Tom and Jerry' couple. They fought over petty things and squabbled all through the day but it was the glutting love that they shared with each other bound them as one.

In the recent past, it was this day that was gleaming strong in Jack's dreams. They had a flight to catch, a holiday to be spent and a romance to be sensed !!
"The cab has arrived Jo !! Hurry up !!" shouted Jack.
Jo was sweating out in locking the main door and hung to the lock ensuring that it was locked properly.
Jack never missed this scene and smiled at Jo's kiddish behavior.

It was 1 A.M. Their cab cruised through desolate roads and reached the Bangalore International airport on time.They did some dilly-dallying across the airport and  boarded the flight to SriLanka after completing their immigration formalities.

The flight was indeed a cozy one and they managed to be seated with the wings on their flanks.The steel bird was on its course for a smooth take-off. They got updates through the internal audio system and visually through the air hostess.The signage flashed for fastening up their seat belts, lights were switched off, the bird accelerated on the run way and engines blared.After a mild turbulence, the flight was comfortably placed in the air, Jo and Jack clinged tightly to each other and it was only after a few minutes that their tumultuous ride became normal. They relaxed a bit and in just under an hour entered the Colombian skies. It was raining cats and dogs when the flight was about to land and they witnessed some spectacular sights. The skyline of Colombo was very much active with the frequent lightning.It welcomed them with a shower.

"Are you OK Jo ?!!" asked Jack as they were walking along the corridors of the moderately crowded airport.
They occupied a comfortable place in the transit lounge.
"I'm fine Jack,except for a mild head ache. I should be OK  Now, what shall we do for the next three hours.Our next flight to Maldives is at 5 A.M right ?"
"Yes darling !! Its a big airport. We will roam around, have a cup of tea, will do some shopping and I will also give engage your cheeks with some kisses.", Jack ended with a smile.
"I greatly appreciate the last part of your sentence..." said Jo, with a smile across the corners of her lips.

The next flight was scheduled on time and  they boarded the flight with much ease. It was again an hour long journey. They saw people from different parts of the world, travelling along with them. In no less than fifteen minutes, the flight was into the blue sky. The mighty Indian Ocean was a scenic beauty to watch through their window.

They were very much unaware that a miracle was awaiting their arrival.
Jack hastily woke up Jo to show her the splendid turquoise waters. The sun woke up along with Jo and was illuminating the blue waters. Bright yellow rays ricocheted off the water's surface displaying a picturesque scenery they had never before witnessed in their lives. They saw many tiny islands surrounded by the turquoise waters, there were some lone ships sailing through the rough waters. The capital island city-Male was near the airport. The city had no sky scrappers but it looked beautiful.The flight made a graceful descent  and hit the island airport  with a creak.The passengers applauded the pilot with claps for his adept flying skills .

Jo and Jack got down from the flight and were exulted when they set their feet on the Maldivian soil. The journey so far, was itself a reveling experience for them. Its a rule to have a valid return ticket and a minimum of $100 per day per person for the entire duration of stay. They had both managed to get a tourist visa and strolled towards the ferry lounge.

There was a small ferry waiting  to take them to the resort. Its was just a half hour travel. The concierge assisted them on boarding. Jack and Jo opted to travel on the deck. Jo kept on clicking pictures with her camera. It was a rejuvenating ride after hours of travel. Jack was worried about Jo's safety as she was standing along the corners of the boat. Before he could act on it, she slipped but was quick enough to catch the protective railings and managed to maintain her balance.Alas!!! Jo's hand bag slipped away from her shoulder and plunged into the Indian ocean. !!Damn !!! It happened within the fraction of a second and all that Jack could do was to remain as a mere spectator.

Jo was panting and sweating out profusely. She could not believe what had just happened. She cried.There was no a way to get back her bag. Jack took her inside the boat and allayed her.

"Don't cry Jo. Its ok . Good that you are safe" Jack said in a mild tone.

"My new blue Louis Vuitton bag !!! Monika from my office envied my bag!!! That's why all these things happened, I always knew she was a totally evil woman!!". She was frowning.

"You fool !! By any chance are you worried about the credit card that was inside that Bag ??"

Jo stopped crying and was shell shocked.

"Oh my God !! How are we gonna pay for the resort ?? If we could not pay where else could we stay in this island ? I am really sorry Jack." She now switched to crying afresh for the credit card.

"Stop it Jo!!!" Jack blared at her.

The ferry reached the shores of the island on which the resort was beautifully  housed. When their co-travellers were reveling , Jack and Jo were worried about the settlement of bills. They walked to the resort and were welcomed with a tender coconut and a loosely decorated garland.They received it with fake smiles. One of the executives, briefed them about the resort facilities and guided them to the billing desk.

"Jack, ask them if we can pay once we reach India after the holiday or ask him to keep an account !!" Jo provided a timely suggestion for which Jack responded with a  violent streak.

Jack confidently reached to his pocket and took out his debit card and gave it to the lady in-charge of billing.
"You fool !! What are you doing ?? Card's cash balance would not be enough for this hefty bill settlement. The transaction would be declined " said Jo and held his hand tight. She was freezing even in the tropical climate. Much to her surprise , the transaction was successful and the bills were settled. They heaved a sigh of relief and walked towards the bungalow that was allocated for them.

Jo was smiling all the way, pinched his cheek  and said "I love you darling !!"

"Stop it Jotsna !! I am not gonna entertain this any further !!" said  Jack in a terse tone.

"Its OK my man !! Can I atleast  worry now about my blue Louis Vuitton bag ???" Jo quipped with a capricious attitude .

"You are a mad lady !!" Jack blasted at her and stomped towards their bungalow.

It was around 12 noon, when they checked in. The bungalow was aesthetically located along the white sanded shores of the sea and amidst a beautiful garden. They were gifted with enough resources to increase their romance quotient but preferred to squabble over the lost credit card. Jack proactively called up CITI bank customer care and blocked his credit card.

They slept (of course separately :P ) for hours and wasted their precious time. A beautiful  evening dawned upon them . It was five o'clock when her stomach started to grumble. She was hungry but feared to wake him up.She waited for half an hour and could not resist and she started to faint. She gathered some energy and woke him up. Jack scowled as he woke up.

"I am hungry Jack", said Jo in a feeble voice.

"Woof !! Hunger-Makeup-Shopping. These are very much quintessential of you", said Jack while rubbing his eyes.

They got ready and planned to go to the cheapest restaurant available in the resort. Jack glanced the route on the map and they started walking along the shores.  Jo was wearing a pair of board shots and a pink t-shirt.Jack was casually dressed with a white shorts and a blue t-shirt. They refrained themselves from walking together.

After a few minutes of walk, Jack inched towards her , placed his fingers between hers and said "I am sorry Jo. I lost my temper !!"

"I need a proper Italian Pizza with a thin crust !!!", said Jo in a lighter tone and gripped her fingers over his fore arm.

"You silly girl!! I will get you one darling" Jack smiled and kissed her forehead.
She buried her head over his chest and braced him. It was a beautiful evening and the sun was slowly taking its shelter. The sun witnessed its evening live action on the turquoise waters.The wind wafted along the surface of the water and splashed it on the coconut trees and dwindled along the shores.They were basking in the mild breeze and firmly fixed their feet on the shores. They remained in that position for a few minutes before Jo remained Jack about the "Italian Pizza".
After a brief  promenade, they reached the beach restaurant. Diffused light spread across the restaurant and it was also gracefully lit by the natural satellite. The atmosphere was filled with the DJ's music and the juggling sound of glasses. They occupied a couch which was positioned in a least inhabited place. They had the entire ocean before them, limitless sky decorated with starts above them. Jack had Jo sitting besides him. He could not have wished for anything more.They had the time of their life.

"Hi !! My name is John Fernandez and I am at your service". John interrupted the romancing couple.

John Fernandez, a man in his early forties, was fat and bald . He sported a learned look and his face was beaming with tranquility which expressed inner peace and confidence.

He had unintentionally over heard their conversation and learnt that they are Tamilians and in order to make them feel at home, he started conversing in Tamil.

"Tamil" !! screamed Jo and asked him, "Where are you from Sir?"

"My native is Kanyakumari ",said John  in  polite way.

"Oh that's great, John !! We are from Bangalore!! Since how many years have you been living in Maldives?", asked Jo.

"More than 12 years. I did my hotel management course at Chennai and later I worked in Accord international at Chennai for 11 years before coming here".

"Don't you miss your family John ?", Jo questioned him further .

"Yes of course. I do want to go back to India. But being an ardent nature lover, I love this place. These days Chennai has become a concrete jungle. When I was in Chennai, I nurtured a 80 year old banyan tree and out of curiosity I went to see it a couple of months ago. Far from my expectations  I could not see even the trace of that huge banyan tree. They uprooted it and all I saw was a big shopping mall in that place.We think of  ourselves as being more civilized but we are heading towards a more hostile environment." His tone was attenuating towards the fag end of his speech and finished with saying "That's all part of the society. Sorry madam. I got deviated. What you gonna have for this evening??"

After a long pause , Jo responded with saying "A veg Pizza and Carlsberg".
The Pizza satiated her hunger, Jack uncorked the beer and sipped to quench his thirst and kissed Jo with his beer smeared lips.

They flagged John that they were done. John collected the plates and alerted them about a soiree themed on Jazz music that was scheduled for the next day evening at the Beach bar. Jo thanked him for the information .

A new day dawned on the beautiful island. They did a bit of snorkeling that afternoon.They spent their evening at the Beach bar. Jazz musicians entertained them with some mesmerizing tunes.The sun was slowly retiring for that day. They were comfortably placed in the king size bean bag and were sipping beer with  their hands held together. Jazz music-a beautiful evening- turquoise waters- a hand clutching beer - another one clutching his soul mate's. Bliss!! Yes, that's exactly what Jack felt that evening.

They spent the third day afternoon with the sun and the sea, this time trying their hand at snorkeling in the precarious waters. The sunset cruise was waiting for them that evening. The cruise took them deep into the India ocean, far away from the shores. They witnessed spectacularly orchestrated gymnastics of the beautiful dolphins.

Fourth day. Jo was sobbing uncontrollably. They would for sure miss this great place.They managed to settle  the restaurant bills and started their journey towards the airport after bidding farewell to John.
They reached on time, did some souvenir shopping before boarding the flight.

They reached Colombo on time and were waiting for their next flight to Chennai. Colombo was still under thick and heavy clouds. Confusion reigned at its prime at the departure gate from which they were supposed to be heading for Chennai . With no official to provide them with accurate information and no announcements being made through the airport's internal audio system, they boarded the flight that was parked at terminal number 12 under their own presumption that this carrier would take them to Chennai, their final destination.

After an hour's journey, the flight started to descend. The flight's landing was smooth but for them it was a like a heart -attack. They saw the turquoise waters once again !!!!!!!! BammMMmmMM!!


Yes !! They landed in Maldives once again instead of Chennai !! They had boarded a wrong flight. There was no proper checking at the Colombo airport nor were their boarding passes thoroughly checked in-flight. It was Jo's idea to board the flight that was in terminal number 12.
Shocked !! Terrified !! Appalled !!

Jack gave a scathing and contemptuous look at Jo. They abused each other with all possible good and effective words that were available in the bad words sections of the dictionary. They felt  as if the entire island was pirouetting  about their head.

They were forced to go to the immigration office. The incumbent officers demanded for a valid return ticket and minimum amount of cash that they were entitled to have. They had none. Panic.!! They were left with no money to book a return ticket. The lost credit card added fuel to the fire.The couple were pushed into a world of panic!!

Jotsna firmly clutched Jack's hand and stamped her fingers over his upper arm. They were sitting in a desolated lounge near the Immigration check at the International Airport of Maldives.She leaned over him , rested her head on his shoulder while shivering inside .She was fidgeting, staring at the odd things that surrounded her. She felt as if she was amidst a cloud of enigma. Jack tried to console her by his gentle touch over her head. He kissed her forehead and said "Don't worry darling, We would be out of this soon" !!

The shorter hand of the clock completed more than 3 rotations and neither of them spoke to each other. All they felt for each other was "ANIMOSITY".

With no visible hopes around, She started to chant the Holy Gospel.

An infuriated Jack, ignored her and walked away from the place.

Jo knelt, bowed her head in an act of obeisance and started to pray. She was weak and fragile. She suddenly felt someone touching her shoulders. She raised her head to see if it was Jack but was taken aback to see John Fernandez.  She started to cry inconsolably at the sight of him. John tried to learn the situation. She explained their situation to him and asked, "Is there anyway you can help us John??"

"Where is your husband ??", asked John.

"We fought bitterly and exchanged some harsh words. He ignored me and left the place a while ago. Its been more than four hours we spoke to each other!!", Jotsna started to cry once again. John made her to rest over his shoulders and said, "Don't worry my child. I will help you out !!"

It was the first ray of hope that consoled Jo and asked him "Really ??"

"Yes.I know a few officers at the immigration office. I will explain your situation to them.I will also book a return ticket for tomorrow morning. You can transfer the money once you reach India.Tonight, you can stay at my place. Is that OK child ?",finished John.

"Thanks a lot, John. We are indebted to you for rest of our lives......."

"Never mind Jotsna. If its the God's will to let me have you as my guests, then it would happen for sure. Its basic human tendency to help each other."

He made her delve in his generosity.It was then Jotsna started smiling.

"You search for your husband and wait near the ferry. I will book the tickets and then pick you up!!"

Jotsna agreed and went in search of Jack.

After an hour of intense search, Jo found him in the smoking lounge. She dared to go inside the room and asked him to come out.

"What now Jo!!", screamed Jack.

"I know that you are not interested in talking to me right now, but I just wanted to let you know that John has come forward to help us."

"Really?" exclaimed Jack.

They once again refrained themselves from walking together. John noticed this from a distance, but he did not explicitly comment on it when he spoke to them.

It was a five minute boat ride and they reached the capital city.They reached John's house. John placed them in a comfortable room.
John once again offered himself to be at their service but this time it was a different ball game.

A new day dawned, rather a day that was not at all in the itinerary. Neither of them spoke to each other since last evening.
Finally things went as planned.
After completing their formalities at the immigration, they were about to bid farewell to John.

John could no longer hold himself and refrain from saying what he really wanted to since last evening now that they had reached the drop off point. It came as a surprise to them. They were all ears.

"You are a good couple but don't get offended with a small piece of advice that I am gonna share with you now", he cleared his throat and continued to speak .."I've had very little interaction with you but I noticed that you two get along with each other only until the tides of time are in your favor. Even if there is a slight upset, you people blow it up to proportions unknown and succumb to the situation. Its very easy to build a beautiful sand castle along the shores when the sea is calm. But it really takes some effort to build a castle during the storm. If you manage to build one, then its that castle that would be more strong and memorable one.
Try to build a castle during the storm and you will feel the bond between you grow leaps and bounds. Its this that we call as "LOVE" and not what you had these four days. Have a pleasant journey and catch the right flight this time". John hugged the couple bid them farewell.

Jack and Jo, watched him till he was visible to them. When he reached the horizon, they turned back and walked towards their departure gate.

Neither of them spoke. They boarded the flight and occupied the seats.

The steel bird was on its course for a smooth take-off. They got updates through the internal audio system and visually through the air hostess.The signage flashed for fastening up their seat belts, lights were switched off, the bird accelerated on the run way and engines blared. After a mild turbulence, the flight was comfortably placed in the air. Jack held her hands and said, "I love you darling".
Jo burst into tears and hugged him tight and said, "Lets build a castle in a storm".
"For sure darling". They kissed. They disappeared into the horizon.

The curtain falls .!!

Subtitles!!

Dark clouds were hovering over the stage. The stage was big and the scene was even bigger, but where was the scene set?? Was it troposphere?? Was it mesosphere?? Never mind them!! Ananya was standing on a floating pink colored cloud. Karthick laid his ground on the red colored cloud opposite her. Both were put in separate cages and they were clutching the iron rods with their heads resting on the same. The place was damn silent, except for the movement of clouds which was creating a hustling sound. It was extremely chill and she very well knew Karthick was allergic to cold weather,but before she could react on it, the Jury banged the wooden desk with a thick wooden log. It was like hearing a thunder in close quarters. Ananya and Karthick were stumbled with the high decibel energy that dissipated from the surrounding area but what made them stumble even more was the judgment. Thus spoke the Jury ..."According to the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955, this court grants divorce to Ananya and Karthick on mutual concern and Ananya no longer needs to entertain Karthick with a bed coffee "!!

Ananya woke up from her bed as the alarm sound peeped into her ears. One would definitely call it as bad luck if sleep is not supported on a chill Sunday morning. Ananya brushed her eyes, relaxed her arms and in an ultra slow motion and very reluctantly, she put away the bed sheets. She crawled to the kids’ bedroom and opened the door while ensuring that she didn’t make any noise. Prakriti and Shyam were sound asleep. Shyam was 7 years old and Prakriti was two years younger to him. She left them undisturbed and started walking towards the balcony. Infocity  is at its best in November month. A soothing atmosphere blessed with periodic breezes, Ananya was feeling refreshed in the balcony. It was at that time, she got reminded of her dream. It was like a vision through ghee paper. She knew there was something wrong about the dream and put her fullest ability to recollect it. After a series of attempts, when she got it, there was no smile, rather despair.

She sat on the chair that was orphaned in the corner of the balcony, leaned on the wall and placed her head on the protective railings. She was sad and a feeling of solitude grew over her and started to haunt her good memories. She needed some change and walked inside the hall to switch on the television.

"Pehla Nasha" was running high in Star Plus. What more can sensitize Ananya than this song?? She was doting over the beautiful moments when this song made an everlasting impact on her. She remembered Karthick. The clock started rotating in the reverse direction and the calendars turned its pages and stopped on May 4, 2002. It was the final year for both Ananya and Karthick and it was the last day of their college life. They were into Computer Sciences Engineering. The beautiful incident happened at the fun frolic farewell party. 4 '0' clock evening, the Sun was about to retire for that day. The colorful lights took over the responsibility to illuminate the college corridors. Attractive placards were placed all over the campus. There was a huge gathering on the ground. The stage was decorated with high beam lights and music system was rocking the grounds. A number of couples were sitting together, hand in hand and eyes in eyes. A few were also seen kissing each other. The place was bubbling with energy. The other singletons clustered and formed many a small circles. There was a smile in everyone's face, bullying, chit-chatting and patting each other’s shoulders.It was yang and more yang. A light music concert was scheduled for the day and it was also rumored that Sonu Nigam was going to perform. Ananya and Karthick were one among the many clusters. They were five in number. Syed, Pintu and Sona were the remaining three.

 Ananya and Karthick were attracted towards each other but they never expressed their interests. They liked each others company.It was like the soothing aroma that emanates from the surface of earth before the rain. Neither of them nor the rest of the three spoke about this explicitly. When it was close to six, the dark sky covered the ground and enhanced the high beam lights. The guests for the night were right on time. More fuel was injected to already flaming atmosphere. The party was slowly catching up. Sona, Syed and Pintu fixed their eyes on the elevated and decorated stage. All eyes glued on Sonu Nigam. Karthick was standing next to Ananya and both were facing the stage. He inched towards her and there was no empty space between them. She was wearing a blue churidhar.Was she usually this beautiful or it so appeared to him only on that day?? This was the question that was lingering on his mind. He saw her and she turned, raised her head a bit and saw his face. They were literally eating into each other’s eyes. Like adding roses to the decorated garland, the music system played a mild music. They never minded the crowd and it felt for them as if they were in a secluded green garden. His left hand was caressing her right hand and he rightfully placed his fingers between hers and clutched her hand softly. He was feeling as though induced by a super power and he'd became a mutant. He gripped her hand, went down on his knees and stretched his hands towards her and whispered to her, "I love you with my heart and soul!!" "Pehla Nasha" was running high and Sonu Nigam was at his best. Ananya was awestruck. Tears of joy rolled from her eyes and she too went on her knees, leveled her height with Karthick and hugged him!! They never minded the surrounding !!.He threw his arms around her, clutched her sleek hip and brought her closer to him. She closed her eyes and parted her lips.Karthick drew himself much more closer to Ananya's lips. He made her lips complete.

She cut herself out from those distant memories and raced back to that awful Sunday Morning.

What was troubling Ananya now? What was the dream all about? Was she really developing hatred towards Karthick? A chapter of questions were troubling Ananya and her thought process stopped when she saw Prakriti and Shyam strolling towards her. She was sitting on the wooden chair and she grabbed both of them and kissed Prakriti. She glanced at the clock and it was already quarter to eight. She rushed to the kitchen and started with the chores.

It was half past two. Lunch was over and Ananya put the kids to sleep. She could neither watch TV, read nor sleep. All she was did was to stare at the monotonous rotating fan.

Ananya heard someone knocking the door. She peeped into the mirror and looked at herself,to see if she was ok. She kempt up her hair and walked towards the door to see her good old friend Sona standing on the threshold. Sona was full of energy and was dressed in a loose red skirt and white tank top. Sona hugged Ananya and both sat on the sofa. In less than 3 minutes Sona learnt that Ananya was not  all ok. Ananya asked some namesake questions about Sona's life and about her husband. Sona wouldn't give up and jumped into a series to questions.

"What’s wrong with you Ananya? You are not participating in our gang's group mail conversations also. Is it anyway related to Karthick?" Sona questioned.

"Yes" was the one word reply and Ananya was looking at the carpet.

"Where is he now??"

"Australia, went for a business meeting.He will be back only after 4 days"

"Did you fight with him?”

"No!!"

"Did he fight with you"?

"No!!"

"Is he not taking care of the children"?

"He loves them a lot"!!

"Then what’s the point?? Not taking care of you??”

"No!! He cares for me!!"

"Not taking you to places??”

"We do go out!!”

"Is he seeing someone else??"

"None"

Sona was laughing aloud and started to speak...."Is he having blood cancer or some sort of deadly disease???!!"(Sona was being very cinematic as she could think of no other option !!)

Ananya ignored this question and so Sona took it to mean as a no.

"Aarushi's murder case was less complicated than yours !! You are a mad lady Ananya!! What’s wrong with you when everything is okay with Karthick? I know he is a gem of a guy and you're lucky to have him as  life partner. I thought you were made for each other. You are a pessimist. You are a cynic!!" finished Sona and took deep breaths!!

Ananya didn’t respond and kept staring at the red carpet.

Sona lost her temper and started vigorously shaking Ananya's shoulders, but in vain.

There was silence all over the house and the sound of the television occasionally broke the silence.

Sona knew, Ananya was broken.All she was trying was to do was to elicit some reasons for Ananya's strange behavior.

After a couple of minutes, Ananya finally gathered some energy to speak.
She stopped whining and started speaking.

"Even an active volcano under the sea, seems to be calm at the surface of the water but that does not mean everything is okay.If you don't even realize the problem,  then the situation is even more worse and it becomes an incurable disease which might ultimately plague the relationship. Our relationship is like a volcano, you see the surface ,but I feel the heat down under. Karthick is a gem of guy, but he is not the same person I loved. He is good to me but that is not all that I am sufficed with. I want him to spend time with me and I want him to speak with me by looking into my eyes, I want him to shake shoulders with me, I want him to text me back with more love than I do. I want him to make me feel special each and every day. I might be silly but I don't care about that. What I want is nascent love and extreme pampering "

"Ananya, don't call this a reason for strange behavior. A person cannot be same at all the time. You have to enjoy the light but that does not mean you mourn over the dark. He might be busy or occupied with other important matters but that does not mean he is ignoring you or not giving you importance."

"I want the same Karthick back who was head over heels in love with me. Don't try to convince me." retorted Ananya.

Sona was left with no words. She still did not understand what it was all about and it was the like the hardest sudoku ouzzle she had ever encountered. The biggest mistake that Sona did was meeting Ananya.!!!!

Sona spent rest of the day with Prakriti and Shyam. She thought it was a bad idea to leave Ananya in such a pathetic condition. She texted her husband that she would stay back at Ananya's place.
Sona fed the kids and told a couple of Harry Potter stories and made them sleep.
Ananya thanked Sona for dropping by and for her companionship without which she would have felt very bad.

It was ten o' clock and Ananya slept on the couch. Sona left her undisturbed and slept along with the kids.

When the clock stuck 12 o' clock, Ananya was alarmed when she heard multiple sounds.She heard the calling bell ringing  and also heard "Pehla Nasha". She searched for the source, but in vain. She sensed something sweet was going to happen and ran to the door. It was a sweet surprise for her. It was Karthick !! "Pehla Nasha " was running high and Karthick was at the doorstep. Karthick went on his knees and wished "Happy Birthday my love". She threw herself at him and hugged him tight. He kissed her on her head.

"I thought you forgot me" whispered Ananya while burying her face inside Karthick's overcoat.
Karthick ruffled her hair and said "you can take the life outta love but you can hardly the love outta life.
 It would neither fade nor diminish, you will always be my princess!!"

There were many more surprises in for Ananya. Syed and Pinto also joined the party. Sona kicked Ananya and wished her happy birthday. The gloomy atmosphere faded in a flash of a second and it was a hell of a party for Ananya. 

Half an hour later, they stepped inside the house. They made enough noise to wake up the kids too. Prakriti and Shyam wokeup to see their dad and jumped onto his shoulders .

Ananya asked Karthick , " how did you pull off such a party ?"

"It was all part of the plan. I rang up Syed and Pinto".

"And Sona??" puzzled Ananya.

Karthick smiled and she understood !!

"I love you like never before" whispered Ananya.

Curtain falls.!!

The story of a Glock !!

The story of a Glock !!

                               
                                         
Dec 27 2011

Norristown,

Pennsylvania

The hyperactive chill breeze was gently caressing the thick clouds above Norristown. The extreme weather conditions forged the water vapours to precipitate and resulted in splendid snowflakes. The symmetrical snowflakes wavered, did a freestyle ramp walk and gracefully hit the ground. The entire town was painted white.

Evening 7.00 PM

I was shivering inside and was staring at the milk packet. After a life threatening event, its obvious for anyone to be in meta state. I tried to relax myself  by drinking a bottle full of water. I switched on the TV and tuned in the News Channel.

WTF !! was the initial feeling when I listened to the news. I pricked myself to check if it was a dream. Everything was right in place but I sensed something was wrong !!. Shock waves spread all over my body and made it numb.It was like entire world spinning on my head.

What happened 1 hour back ...!!!!

Evening 6.00 PM

After an another  tiresome day at office, I strolled and managed to reach  home. I picked the Times Herald, daily newspaper which was orphaned outside  my house.The ringing mobile phone captured my attention and it was my maker who was calling me. Its always an elating feeling  to hear Mom's voice. She asked me whether I can make home for this Pongal. I disappointed her and disappointed myself with a negative answer. I had a brief conversation with her and before I disconnected the line , I finished with saying "I really really want to see you Mom!!".


With a sudden flash of thought, increased my speed ,entered the room , booted  my laptop and connected to the World Wide Web and started to watch the highlights of India Vs Australia, The Boxing day Test.

 If not for cricket and interesting television series, I would have got bored to death  in this foreign land. Peter Siddle , was the cricketer whom I was abusing like how ,back in India an angry auto rickshaw driver would abuse when you accidentally hit his vehicle. The reason -Very Simple, he claimed God's wicket. No wonder one gets a heart attack for the same and I was fortunate enough to be troubled with just a head ache.

Then it became quintessential for me to have a cup of coffee to abate the pain in my head.I stood  up from my bed with minimal motions and  went into my kitchen and opened the fridge to see DAMN !!!!!!! No milk !!

I exclaimed,  "All I need is a cup of coffee" !!. I glanced at my watch to see the time. It showed quarter past six. It would hardly take 15 minutes to buy milk from the nearest WallMart and the second day of the test match was scheduled to start at 6.30.  I had enough time to buy milk.

I picked my hoods then my IPod,without which half of the US population would have gone mad.

Shruti Hassan was crooning in my ears as I started to walk towards Walmart.

Walmart

Pennsylvania

One would definitely call it a brave attempt to step outside during freezing December and I managed to reach in 7 minutes. Wallmart is just an advanced version of BigBazaar.It welcomes you 24/7, but I prefer to go in the evening.

I hardly interact with anyone in Walmart except two people..One my favourite Lisa, A 65 yr old Granny who always welcomes me inside with a warm and gentle smile..

"Hey Nakul !!, How was ur Christmas? Had a gud time huh..???" she asked me with beaming eyes.

"Yeah..it was great.. one of my best  experiences."

To be frank.. I didn't  do anything in this long weekend.. I rejected Vegas trip for Boxing day test match..slept for the whole day..my conscience warned me to stop lying more.

"ok Lisa..see you while returning" I told Lisa.

My eyes searched for the second person.That’s Rasheeda from Islamabad.. cute counter girl..she was busy doing the billing stuff.I never interacted much with her.. I usually say “Hi” and  she gives me a  plastic smile and  while giving away the bill ,finishes with saying “Have a nice time”. I always had a nice time seeing her say that. I got so used to it to the extent that,  the pattern of her lips would moving when she says "Have a nice time" got registered in my brain and one of my hobby is to keep replaying the pattern.

She was short, fair, lean..wearing blue tops and black jean on that day.Probably dark blue

jean I guess. I always hated India-Pakistan partition for two things- One is for the reason that Indian batsmen had to face speedsters like Wasim,Imran,Waqar and Shoaib.The other one being Pakistani gilrs !! My God !! they have a considerably good proportion of beautiful gilrs in the blue planet and Rasheeda was no exception.With Rasheeda on my eyes and Shruti on my ears I started to shop.
Wall mart is a place where we can see most  non Americans..mostly Indians and Mexicans.

Filled my shopping basket with two milk packets and proceeded to buy cauliflower.I was following a middle aged Indian, who was moving with a trolley full of items and also with a cute small girl running around him.She was lovely..she looked at me..I smiled at her and waved my hand sayin “Hi”..

She gave me a gaze and went near her dad without a response.

He was a middle aged man with a brown complexion and with a thick moustache.He was conversing in tamil and I overheard.He was speaking with his wife..found that with the tone he spoke in.

He was pickin up a rotten  cauliflower.. I volunteered myself and said..”Athu nalla illa sir, vera edunga”(Don pick tat sir, pick other one).

He turned back and asked his wife over the  mobile to hold for a minute..waved a smile at me.. and asked “Are you from Tamil Nadu..?”..”Yes. I am Nakul from Trichy”..

He said “Sanker from Kumbakonam”..I thought he  will speak in Tamil..But my conversation fully went in English..I asked his daughter's name..He said”Shruti”.

“Shruti…..!” This name was crossing my day for the second time.. I smiled within..;).

I saw her.. she was running towards the bread section.. think she she was searchin for a muffin.. ..her  Dad was calling her, but she was dodging past us as kids usually do.

I called her name” Hey Shruti..". She turned her face towards me and stayed still..!

I told her dad..”she s very pretty”...”Yeah like her Mother..”  he replied with a gentle smile.

The very next moment his smile faded away and he was watching  someone and his eyes were fixed.I sensed something is wrong and before I could react Shankar fainted and fell to the ground. He was bleeding, his skull was badly injured, he was gasping  for his last breath.


In next   few minutes.. I heard gun shots “ 5 to 6 times..”..I was hiding behind the vegetable stack.Shanker was lying still on the floor with a gun shot on his neck.Everything happened in a fermi second.

I kept myself away from the sight of the killer. A white man,wearing a black leather Jacket..6 feet tall…French beard,well built and kept shouting.. “Its time for all immigrants to leave American soil”.. then he shot an Mexican who was standing near the counter.
Rasheeda..!!! What happened to her ?? 
My heart was pounding inside and my eyes were searching for the billing section and it was desolated .
I sighed but it hardly lasted for a few seconds when I saw Rasheeda had fallen on the ground. Gun shot in the head and death was instant and vendetta all over the place.Fuck !!! Fuck !!! Panic !! Clamour !! Grief !! A bullshit mad killer, on a  killing spree. It was a heart in the mouth situation for everyone who were alive !!


"Should i save anyone or should I save myself first !! "


Its also one such situation where one would easily be inspired of all the superhero movies in the likes of Spiderman,Batman,Ironman and Captain's  Vaanchinathan.With great responsibility comes great power. With all such filmy thoughts , I rose from the vegetable stack to face the killer.His hand held pistol switched off my filmy thoughts and once again I went behind the vegetable stack.

 He was screaming like hell..”Immigrants get out of America”.

My heart kept questioning me” Nakul are you an Immigrant?”..I replied..”no no.. I am here on L1b visa..he wont kill me”

That was really not funny !!.My Brain responded ”Idiot you are  an immigrant.. he is searching for you only..better stay away from him.. else join Shankar”…

I hate my brain sometimes..it will not give me a solution but everytime it speaks it will project problems..:(

Heard a gun shot again.. one more body fell on the floor..”Shit Shit..Nakul U gonna die today..! was my inner voice.

Why the fuck I came to Wall mart today..
All needed was  a coffee..
It all started because  of Siddle.. if he had not taken Sachin's wicket..this wouldn have happened.
I knew , I became more cranky .!! ##

Shruti !! Where is she ?? .
She was standing  near the bread section and she was crying loudly.. probably searching for her dad was my immediate conclusion.


It was at that time, that the confounding conversation ran through my mind.


My conscience said..”Nakul save her..Don't let tat cute girl die..!

My grey cells replied..”Nakul don’t do anything stupid..That psycho will not kill the small girl..but he will kill you if you move an inch..Don’t do it Nakul ..!

Conscience:”Nakul don’t be selfish..save her..if u die in this mission..Whole world will praise you..times of India will put an article on your name sayin  Nakul lost his life saving a girl..You will be a hero in a day..”..

Grey cells retorted..”But  Nakul  u wont be there to read tat article..!”

I replied “I don care..”

I stood up fast..ran towards shruti…picked her up in both of my arms..when I was about to run..i heard..

“Easy easy young lad…don move an inch if you want to live in this world..” It was the Psycho Killer.

I disobeyed him and  started running towards the vegetable stack. Once again heard a gun shot and a bullet passed my nose..damn I felt it..I stopped running..and looked at him..he was lookin more scary than before.

He asked me”U Desi…?..


Is he gonna ever beleive if I say I am a Native American??. I can neither say the truth nor lie. I stood still.

He was happy about finding the next victim…Shruti was huggin me tight..I felt her heartbeat.. it was so fast…I was hiding her face from looking her dad..infact from  at anything..There was blood everywhere.

I sensed my end was  near and the killer shouted at me in a tighter tone "So what is your last wish??!!"

”I wish I could see Sachin's 100^th ton..then.. need to see”Why this kolaveri video song..?..Oh god.. I forgot to email Vincent weng about d SQL script implementation…" was my inner voice !!.

I am gonna die in the hands of freakin psycho..!!

“Hey Desi..is she ur daughter…You want to live wid her.. or you want to join me..” Psycho said..

I replied nothing.I was standing still.. even shruti was lying idle on my shoulders.

"I will give you a chance to live..but you have to promise that you will leave America soon"..Psycho said.

I was not able to speak..felt a lump in my throat but my Brain was helping me to nod my head.

He took it as a positive response..and in the  next second he shot himself in the head.He died on the spot.

He proved himself to be a real Psycho. Why was this catostrophe ? Why did he kill himself ? All such questions were running through my mind.

I started walikin towards the exit of Wall mart..Lisa was comin towards me..she hugged me..took me to a steel bench..made me to sit there.I saw her lips were  moving..she was sayin something..but I didn't  hear anything..my mind was totally blank..Shruti took her head away from my shoulder..I felt her tears on my shoulder..Lisa took her away from me.

I started walking towards the billing counter.Three bodies were lying on the floor..two strong Mexican lad and my favourite Pakistani Rasheeda .Her name badge was completely drenched in blood..I didnt move..I was seeing  her face for almost five minutes.

It all happened in 10 mins.. the longest 10 mins of  my life…He made me sit on the floor..I saw the ambulance parked in front of me..then some crowd..looking at me weirdly.

Then a lady cop took me in to the Police car..I saw the stretchers were carrying the injured and some carrying dead people. It was a horrible sight to see.Shankar was  still holding his phone in his hand and they put him in an ambulance and Shruti was also inside the ambulance .I was looking at the ambulance till it disappeared from my sight.With a heavy heart , I started walking towards my home.

It was 7 PM when I reached home.

I was shivering inside and was staring at the milk packet. After a life threatening event, its obvious for anyone to be in meta state. I tried to relax myself  by drinking a bottle full of water. I switched on the TV and tuned in the News Channel.
WTF !! was the initial feeling when I listened to the news. I pricked myself to check if it was a dream. Everything was right in place but I sensed something is wrong !!. Shock waves spread all over my body and made it numb.It was like entire world was spinning on my head.

The News Channel was showing the headlines  "A Psycho on a killing spree at WallMart. 7 died and 3 injured". It was not the news that shocked , it was showing of my DEAD BODY on it. A couple of cops were carrying my dead body. The Psycho was also dead and so was Lisa.
-This was the news that was running on the channel.

 "A software graduate named  Nakul , lost his life when he was trying to save a kid's life. The Psycho shot him at the head and later shot himself and both died on the spot."

I saw the phone was ringing and it was my maker who was calling me. I answered the phone, but she didn't hear my voice. I heard her was voice. It was beautiful. 

”I wish I could see Sachin 100^th ton..then.. need to see”Why this kolaveri video song..?..Oh god.. I forgot 2 email Vincent weng about d SQL script implementation…I COULDN'T SPEAK TO MY MOM" was my inner voice !!.

Now I am in the likes of Spiderman,Batman and Iron Man  or maybe a tad better than them!!!

Happy Hours @Brigade Road

SEASON 1: The Summer.

"Have you ever guessed how heaven would look like??..neither did I.But i am damn sure it would exactly look like my college."

"Hi ..this is Pranay." An ordinary guy with less complicated dreams but with extraordinarily mind boggling friends.This is our second year at Christ college in Bangalore. I am with B.Sc Physics. John with BBA. Kumble with Maths and Mayuri with Physics. Hold on....Hold on..just a clarification,,Mayuri is no A Beautiful girl. We were not that blessed to owe one such in our gang and that says...THIS IS OUR GANG(without a girl). We are united with life but divided with dreams.
To have a simple life. This is my wish
Mayuri.."the sporting soul". You name the sport..he would know about it and would give a half an hour lecture. He is the richest person in our gang.Son of a Minister(and that clarifies the previous statement). A freak and lives the life for the day.
Kumble.."The Hunk",,. Whether he is dressed or not but you can always see a guitar, clinging to his shoulders. To become a lead guitarist, his dream
John..."to put a ding in the universe". That's his tagline. Money and More money..to be a successful entrepreneur.
Reality is far from all these taglines. Lingering around the college, We managed to complete one successful year of college life. Our academics was less eventful but rest, we made it sure and MADE IT LARGE. We share the Hostel room, the tea, share the dresses,  share the Kings and share the Life. We game, play cricket, chit-chat, watch movies .We had no competition among ourselves, but for one thing. When it comes to NFS Most Wanted, We become wild and fight with our heart and soul for the mighty PRO title.

It was another chill evening at Bangalore. We  gathered in usual tea shop outside the college.
Mayuri started the hot topic.
"Doodes, you know whats happening with Kumble?"
Kumble blushed. Others puzzled and exclaimed.
"yesterday, a girl rang to him and proposed him".
I was taken aback and in fact my tea cup slipped and spoiled my shirt.
"Who is that girl Kumble?"
"I don't know. She addressed herself as Jenny and she told she saw me at the canteen and second time when i was performing in the college cultural. She appreciated my guitar skills and she fell in love with both me and my guitar."
It was that day i decided, to learn Guitar. Girls always have a soft corner towards "music" guys and i decided to capitalize on it.
"So, What you have decided?" i questioned him.
"Don't know..she will meet me this Tuesday. if i like her i will tell a yes " finished Kumble.
"Bravo,,That's it!!I am throwing a party tonight on behalf of Kumble" boasted Mayuri
"Are you game!!!!" was the energy.

                       -----------
It was half past seven,evening. We got ready for Mayuri's party. After an half an hour intense research, we zeroed Hard Rock Cafe(It was the cheapest we could find,C'Mon...its Mayuri's party). Drinking and driving is dangerous, so we opted for Bangalore Metropolitan Transport. In no less than half an hour we reached the destination.  Kumble,John,Mayuri and I were in good spirits.Laughing and chafing,we went inside the cafe and got a corner table for four of us.Hard Rock Cafe was brimming with energy.The dim-light aambiance delighted the senses,absolute rock music  energised the ear drums and beautiful girls increased our pulse rate. In short...it was heaven.We started to pour in our orders to the waiter..actually we were torturing him.
If my memory goes right and if i sequence it correctly this is what happened after that...
Level 1- This  round was for Kumble. After all, its the main reason for this party. We wished him long and happy love-life.
Level 2- This one was for our Gang...long live our friendship,..
Level 3- This was for Anna Hazare(I really dont know how on this earth this topic cropped up). In fact we even decided to take part in the Mass Movement.
Level 4- This one was for Sachin Tendulkar..i remember some match was going on that time..

Everything was fit and fine till that time ..till I saw the remote table. In the dim-light, I saw a girl sitting all alone  and having a drink. I invited myself to the that table and sat opposite to her. She raised her head to see me and she was kinda surprised. She blinked.
"Who are you...?" she exclaimed.
"An another ordinary guy" after giving  a long pause "did you come here alone??"
"S"... was her reply
"If you don't mind...you can join our gang..." I offered
"Thanks and  I do mind and I want to be alone.." She replied in a frustrated tone,
"Ok.cool".
 I did not say anything for next few minutes. I was simply watching her.She had a round face, fair complexioned,dark eyes and she was kinda not lean.She wore a pink t-shirt and a blue Jean.  She was busy with her drinks. I did not disturb her. I also noticed,her eyes were red. and she was trying to hide the tears,  In one hand she was clutching the glass and other hand she was holding her mobile phone.
"My parents opted for a divorce"..she herself started the conversation.
"Thats really bad. Is it their final decision?" I tried to learn the situation.
"Yes.Many times i contemplated them to change the decision. I forced them, begged to them..all in vain.."
"Some are blessed to stay with them always...some have the opportunity to stay with them till they get married..some may get an occasional chance to meet them...and a few people never meet their parents in their entire life..its all what we cannot decide...try to live with what we are offered".I finished...
"So among these which category you fall??" she questioned..
After a pause for couple of minutes...I stabilized my voice and replied..."The last one"..
"You never met your father and mother till now??" she puzzled.
"Yes... when I was 8 months old, they died in a road accident.
Never I felt their warmth...
Never I tasted my Mom's food...
Never I spoke with them..laughed with them....
Never felt how it would be when father boasts your confidence....
I miss them,,,,miss them badly...I would rather say you are blessed to some extent" ... My eyes frequently forced me use the tissue paper.
"I don't know what to say"..she said in a broken voice...
"Ok...If you don't mind..I am leaving"  I said.
"Yes,you can carry on..." she nodded/
I managed to reach my table. I was totally clueless in which level these guys were.Mayuri settled the bills.
It was twelve thirty. We hit the road and reached the hostel.

SEASON 2: The Winter
It was exactly three months later i met her once again. Lunch was over, we tried to catch some fresh air. Mayuri and I were roaming in and around brigade road. It was exactly opposite to Rex theatre I saw her. She was alone and was busy in selecting ear rings in the road-side shop. I told a short bye to Mayuri and crossed the road to meet her.

I said a "Hi" to her, which she neglected and continued her "selection process".She was done with the ear rings, paid, packed ,ignored me, crossed me and started walking towards the next shop.
I was hundred percent sure , she did it on purpose.
"Then why the hell did you kiss me on the other day??" I shouted at her.
She slowly reduced the pace and finally stopped walking and turned towards me and finally saw me.
"Are you speaking to me"  she questioned.
"S" I replied in a tighter tone.
"Don't you dare tell me that." she refuted.
"No. You did kiss me."
"Look, I am conscious even when I am drunk". I was literally threatened by her beaming eyes.
"Then Why you behave as if  we did not meet"
"Yes, I do know you. But that does not mean i should speak and entertain you whenever you speak to me."
"Very clever answer. Ok bye" I started walking away. I was totally clueless and was busy in decoding the situation. She was acting as if she is smart and totally irritated me.
"Stop" was the sound. I turned back to see, she was waving hands to me.
"Now what??" were the words from me out of  frustration.
"Care for a coffee.??"
"Are you mad???"
"Hope so"..she was smiling.
I felt as if  watching INCEPTION back to back, totally confused but liked the way it was going.
"Ok fine,we will go to CCD but you should pay the bill" I warned her.
"Never mind"
I another couple of minutes we reached the CCD at brigade road. CCD, indeed was happening. After a few minutes wait we got a seat. I dint speak to her. I was waiting for her to start the topic as I was not sure about her state of mind. She was wearing a white t-shirt, a black jeans and a sling bag. She was not exactly the way she looked at Hard rock cafe and the change was in a good sense.
"So what do you want?" she started
"I will go with cool blue".
She  ordered a cool blue and an espresso.
We were waiting for drinks.
"So what you people did on that night?"  she said in a much lighter tone.
"As usual. We started  in another ten minutes after I said a bye to you. What did you do?"
"Same.I left as soon as you people left. You came with another three friends right?? Any special occasion or yet another boozing sessions??"
"It was special.One my friend was expected  to be in a relationship."
Our orders were delivered. I was sipping the cool blue and she had espresso.
"Oh cool.Which college you are from?"
"Christ and you"
"The same" was her reply. It was indeed a surprise as I have never seen her in the college.
"So who is that girl with whom your friend is going to be paired?"
"Jenny. you know her?"
She was surprised to hear the name and was having a huge laughter. Once again I was confused. I totally hate these confusing conversations.
"Now why the hell are you laughing like a madcap" I shouted at her.
"Your friend name is Kumble right". This time I got irritated to the core and felt like giving a tight slap.But one thing was bothering me and that was how does she know my friend's name.
"How the hell do you know his name"
"It was a hoax" was her reply.
"Hoax?? why the hell you played with him and who all were involved in this" I refuted.
I felt sorry for Kumble. I was guessing what sort of reactions he would give for such things but I was sure he would take it light and continued the conversation.
"It was one fine night, we decided to give a prank call to Kumble as we were curious to know, how he would react for such things" She explained.
"What's your name"  I questioned.
"All this while, you did not know my name. ok take it.My name is Surya" she responded.
"Surya, You are sick". I was totally displeased  with her behaviour.
"Cool it, Why should boys have all the fun. If you want I will say a personal sorry to him as he is your friend and as we both are friends. We are friends right?" she questioned with a corner smile.
Now the million dollar confusion. Whether to ignore her or to extend the friendship hand. I decided to do the latter and extended my hand. We  hand a brief handshake.
As per the memorandum of understanding, she paid the bills and we left the CCD.
We hit the road. She said a bye and left the place. I went back to hostel and explained the story to our GANG.

SEASON 3: The Love.

I got the opportunity to move in close quarters with her as we were in the same college. It was one month after the CCD incident , she asked my name. It looked kinda weird to me but I liked the weirdness in her. What initially sounded like a "hi" and "bye" turned to "hiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii" and "byeeeeeeeeeeee" . The upper limit of 100 SMS per day seemed very less for us. I was totally occupied with her and the same was with her. Mornings appeared like extended nights and we became the esteemed customers for AIRTEL,PVR,CCD and Barista. As she promised, She said a sorry to John and sooner she was considered  as a part of our GANG(with a girl).
I very well knew this is love,but what with her?How does she feel?Considering her weird nature into picture, these questions tortured me. Finally decided to pour out my emotions to her.
It was exactly  6 months later, we went to the CCD at brigade road. We got the same seat that we got when we came 6 months back and this time I promised her that I would pay the bill.
We placed a few orders and waited for the delivery.
"How is your preparations for the semester Pranay" she started the conversation.
"Very average, how about you?" I responded
"Good and planning to give GRE"
"Oh Cool". I replied. Is this the right time to break the ice? Shall I postpone it by 10 minutes? such questions kept circling around my head and finally I decided to speak out.

"I want to give my warmth to you..
 I want to cook for you everyday...
 I want to speak with you all the time....
 I want to laugh with you
 I want to boast your confidence when you are down...
 I want to be your side...day and night..." she said holding my hands tightly.

YES, IT WAS SHE WHO SAID.
The joy of tears started to peep out from our eyes.I held her hand tightly and looked her eyes for the next couple of minutes. Those minutes were really divine.It was sublime. Indeed it was heaven like. How does it feel like when you wanted to propose , the girl stops you and she says those beautiful words. It was a feeling of content. I decided to do what my heart desperately wanted at that time.Unmindful of the CCD atmosphere, i held her hands tightly and leaped to reach her lips. She remained motionless. I placed my lips on her lips. I saw her closing her eyes and I could sense my tears rolling through my eyes and hit her cheeks.
Such moments make the life more meaningful and indeed life is nothing but a collection of such beautiful moments.
The camera slowly zooms out of CCD and the curtain falls.!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)

3 Acts of Love. Act 3 : Bangalore-Chennai-Hyderabad

The Juice of Act 1 and Act 2.
Nikhil , a software engineer by profession works at Bangalore. Travels to Chennai for his sister’s wedding. He meets Aradhana at the wedding.
Through his uncle Raju Mama ,Nikhil gets the opportunity to accompany Aradhana. Avoiding his sisters “mapillai azhaipu”, Nikhil takes Aradhana to city center to purchase a gift for Aradhana’s cousin. Nikhil capitalizes this stage and takes Aradhana to Marina.

Act 3

The person who was God like to Nikhil a few hours ago, turned to be his Villain.
It was “Raju Mama” who was calling him. Nikhil was in double mind, whether to attend the call or ignore it. Aradhana insisted him to attend the call. Nikhil finally decided to attend the call and he pressed the answer button.
“Nikhil, where are you. It’s been 2 hours since you and Aradhana left. Where are you and where is Aradhana. Did you forget about yours sisters mapillai azhaipu. People are asking for you and Aradhana. Start immediately and reach mandapam as soon as possible” shouted Raju Mama.
“Ya ya. We are on the way. We got stuck up in the traffic. We will reach in another half an hour.” Stammered Nikhil.
“Fast, but you have to answer many people.” said raju mama and he cut the phone angrily.
“Any problem??” questioned Aradhana.
“Ya ya.. I had to do some rituals in my sister’s “mapillai azhaipu”. My parents were searching for me. I was not available. Now they are angry on me.” Said Nikhil.
“I am extremely sorry.” Said Aradhana in a much sweeter voice.
“Not an issue. Actually I loved this evening. I have to thank you.” Flirted Nikhil.
Aradhana responded with a smile.
“We will leave” said Ardhana.
Nikhil halfheartedly left Marina.
They reached City Centre parking area. Nikhil started his bike and she sat behind him.
The traffic was very high but there was no traffic between Nikhil and Aradhana.
There was a dead silence between them.
There was a red signal ahead. Nikhil stopped the bike.
“In how much time we will reach the Mandapam” asked Ardhana.
Nikhil turned back and he saw her face and started speaking.
“In another ten minutes. And I LOVE YOU” said Nikhil in a breaking voice.
Finally the Ice was broken. He was waiting for her reply. Aradhana was puzzled and she didn’t expect Nikhil would be this brutal in proposing her in a busy traffic signal. She started sweltering, not because of Chennai’s hot Sun rays but because of Nikhil’s striking words.
Buses ,bikes and Cars started to horn. Unmindful of the signal, Nikhil kept looking at her.
“ Hey hey hey Green Signal” shouted Aradhana.
Nikhil started the bike. Once again there was a dead silence .
This time Nikhil started the conversation. “Was that Green Signal for me?”
“That was for the road. You are riding .Kindly concentrate on the road and not on me .” pleaded Aradhana.
Aradhana was restless.
They reached the mandapam. Mapillai Azhaipu was over and reception was going on.
Mandapam was flooded with people. Loads of bright decorative lights. Loads of people. Loads of events. Everyone seemed to be busy.
As soon as they reached the mandapam, Ardhana said a bye to him and walked towards her room in the Mandapam.
Consequences of Nikhil’ s action:
• Poor raju mama was loathed by Nikhils parents for sending him out.
• It was only during school times Nikhil was scolded this bad. He was treated like how a Pakistani terrorist would be treated in the Indian Prison. Nikhil’s entire family abused him.
• Finally, Ardhana. Ardhana’s parents advised her not to move with strangers.
Nikhil finished his dinner and was sitting in the mandapam balcony. He was expecting a reply from Aradhana. Couple of times he tried to contact her but she was with her parents. He was lost in thought. He was lost to Aradhana. He slept, sitting in the chair.
Next day Early Morning.
It’s the D day. It was an early Muhurtham (the most auspicious hour) for her sister, scheduled at 5.30 AM. The purest nadhaswaram and the resounding mridangam created a beautiful medley and broke the morning silence.
His family as well as bride’s family were all set for the grand occasion. Nikhil hastily got ready for the upcoming important ritual. He should not and did not want to miss this. Nikhil was wearing a cream color trousers and a blue shirt.
It was exactly quarter to five, Nikhil saw Aradhana at the Main hall, for the first time on that day.
She was climbing down the stairs. She was wearing a light red silk cotton sari, let loose her hair, lips were glossy. Her eyes were as bright as the morning sun. She carried a pleasant smile which could mesmerize anyone. Nikhil was no exception. He fell flat seeing her on sari. He felt like proposing her once again. His ego stopped. He continued with his assigned work.

It was exactly at 5.30 A.M when Akash tied the Nuptial knots.
Nikhil was standing besides his sister.
“Ketty Melam”(the most auspicious music for the South Indian wedding) thundered the entire mandapam. It was at such an auspicious time, Nikhil felt someone touching his hand. He turned back to see ARADHANA. She came near to him and whispered “That Green Signal was for you and not for the Road”. She smiled and her eyes once again conveyed the love she had for him.
Nikhil was high. He smiled, shouted, cried, walked fast, ran slowly, spoke rubbish, he sang and finally his love was acknowledged and reciprocated with greater sense. He fast forwarded his life with Aradhana. He visualized their wedding, honey moon, sweet pillow talks, cool morning walks, refreshing shopping, watching movies, dining, their house, their kids and all the sweetest things in the world.
They met where ever and whenever it was possible. They had their time of life.
Lunch was over. His sister was free in her room. He decided to tell her about Ardahana.
Nikhil met his sister. He told her about all the things. Prarthana congratulated him for getting into a relationship .
“SO , You saw her when I was receiving Akash .You got to know her and started moving close with her when my reception was on. She accepted you during my Muhurtham. I could see lots of similarities between my wedding and your love story. ” said Prarthana.
“You are a genius Prarthana. That’s true. Even I did not notice.” Exclaimed Nikhil.
“Your love story seems to be very fast” said prarthana.
“I personally think it’s very slow” smiled Nikhil.
“Enough… Put a temporary pause. I will speak to parents. Now they are very angry on you. Till then wait patiently” advised prarthana.
“sorry, Prarthana I have already planned and I have some plans for tonight” .
Unmindful of Prarthana’s advise, Nikhil left the place.
It was surprisingly a cold evening at Chennai. Nikhil was searching for Aradhana. He wanted to have a hot coffee with her. Nikhil could not cut the mustard, and started dialing her number.
Aradhana attended his call.
“Hey Aradhana ,Where are you, I am searching for you”
“Sorry ,I am in my room. First floor. Nikhil I forgot to say .. I am leaving tonight to Hyderabad.”
“But you told me in the afternoon that you are starting by tomorrow!!”
“Yeah, but don’t know what parents thought. They are asking me to start tonight”
“This is unfair Aradhana. OK fine, with whom are you travelling?? Alone??”
“No!!! My uncle is travelling with me. Travelling by bus. Would you come with me for Sendoff??”
Nikhil got totally irritated with her response.
“No Aradhana. Got some work. Bye” Nikhil hung up the phone.
Nikhil never called it a day. He thought the day was still ON and even in his wildest imagination, he never thought Aradhana would draw such a plot. He wished to converse with her. He wanted to spend time with her. The HOT time, just after the proposal is always special. Nikhil never wanted to miss the sensational season. The only option left with Nikhil is travelling to Hyderabad, and he decided to do that.
Nikhil told his parents that he has to leave urgently to Bangalore. Unaware of Nikhil’s intentions his parents agreed. He told an express bye to everyone, including his Sister and left the mandpam .
It was half past eight. Nikhil reached Central Railway Station. He tried to get a ticket to Hyderabad but failed in the attempt. He managed to get a ticket in Bus. The bus was scheduled at 10. He boarded the bus in time. He took his phone and dialed Aradhana’s number. There was no answer to his call.
In a journey of 14 hours, Nikhil pulled out his phone 27 times to see if Aradhana called him back, but he was disappointed all the times.
The Next Day Morning.
It was a hot and sunny day at the Biryani City. Nikhil was at the Jubilee bus stand.
Here comes the million dollar question. How, When and Where he can meet Aradhana??
Nikhil dialed her number to get an answer for the million dollar question. Aradhana did attend the call and started to speak.
“Hi Nikhil, sorry for not dialing you back. I was busy. But I have one surprise to share!!” whacked Aradhana.
“What!! You too” puzzled Nikhil.
“Guess what!!! I am in Bangalore” surprised Aradhana.
“Hey whaattt!! Are you serious??” puzzled Nikhil.
“Yeah. I am serious. Yesterday, my uncle who was about to accompany me, cancelled his travel plans. So it became easy for me to change the direction. I wanted to spend time with you. So came to Bangalore. So tell me Nikhil, when and where we can meet?? How about lunch??”
“Aradhana, I am in Hyderabad.”
“Are you joking Nikhil??”
“No Aradhana, I came to Bangalore for the same reason , for which you went to Bangalore.”
“You have become insane Nikhil”
Nikhil was laughing like hell. He controlled his laugh and started to speak.
“You know the story of The Gift of Magi??”
“And what the hell is that Nikhil??”
“Della and Jim , a poor couple but left with loads of love for each other. In a Christmas eve, they wished to express their love through gifts. Della had a beautiful long hair, Jim had a gold watch. These were their only assets. Jim wanted to have a chain for his watch. Della decided to gift him a watch chain, but left with no money she decided to sell her long hair. She went to a parlor, cut her hair, and sold it. Della bought an attractive watch chain for Jim’s watch and presented him. Far from her expectation, Jim was shocked to see Della’s short hair and he was even more surprised to see Della’s gift. Jim, selling his gold watch, gifted Della a pair of fancy combs which Della wished to have for her long hair. ”
Aradhana interrupted.
“Stop the bullshit story Nikhil. I am leaving to Hyderabad tonight,9 P.M.I would be waiting for you at The Forum from 7 P.M onwards. Try to come before that. I want to KISS you”. She hung up the phone.
Nikhil could not believe what he heard. He glanced at his watch to see,11 A.M.
He asked the nearby person “HOW TO REACH THE AIRPORT.”

Nikhil, reached bangalore in time and got his first KISS.
------------The Happy Ending--------:)