Sorry for the delay guys! Had a busy couple of weeks. But i hope these next chapters make up for the delay! Don't forget to comment!
CHAPTER 21
Heer sat at the lunch table lost in her thoughts. It was the day after their Karva Chaut celebration and Heer could not seem to focus on any school work. She tried...believe her...she tried...but Prem kept randomly popping up in her thoughts throughout the day. What was wrong with him!? Heer thought, he not only teased her last night...he flirted with her!
And what was wrong with her!? She couldn't stop thinking about Prem. She couldn't deny that Prem has become someone she considered a good friend. They came a long way from being childhood enemies. He was there for her when she needed someone the most...and Heer will always be indebted to Prem for that.
But there was a shift...something has been changing between them. The way Prem wrapped the sari pallu over her last night...the look in his eyes...it mesmerized her. And what he said to her in their bedroom...Agar qtil karna ho...toh zara dheere se...'' Heer closed her eyes as goose bumps scattered over her arms.
"Heer didi?" Heer opened her eyes as Meher's voice brought her back to the present. Meher stared at her, a concerned look on her face.
Heer, Meher, Preet, and Prem were seated at their usual lunch table. Prem and Preet left for college early this morning since they had basketball practice and lunch was the first time Heer was seeing Prem since their little moment last night.
Heer pretended that nothing happened between them...but she did catch Prem looking at her a few times. The looks were subtle...but they were there. Did he always steal glances at her when people weren't looking? No matter how much Heer tried to ignore it...she couldn't help but feel butterflies in her stomach.
"Sorry Meher...what where you asking?" Heer asked, trying to act normal.
"I was asking if you are going to the game tonight." Meher asked, wondering what Heer was thinking about before she interrupted her.
Heer looked down, not sure how to respond. The St. Xavier Tigers were playing a basketball game tonight. It wasn't as important as the state championship game...but a friendly tournament between prestigious schools.
But basketball only brought back painful memories. Memories of Manmeet...watching him play...rooting for him from the bleachers...and the fact that Manmeet chose basketball over her. Manmeet...She hasn't thought about him a while...Her heart ached a little at his memory...but it wasn't unbearable.
Prem held his breath, waiting for Heer to answer. He wanted her there tonight...he wanted to see her sitting at the bleachers cheering for him.
"I don't think I will Meher...it's just..." Heer tried to explain, but Meher placed a comforting hand on Heer's shoulder, completely understanding.
Prem looked down, disappointed. And this didn't go unnoticed by Preet and Meher. "Preet...it's almost time for the team to meet...we should go." Prem said casually, standing up to leave. Prem walked away without looking back and Preet obediently followed, giving Meher a helpless look.
Meher watched Prem's retreating back and turned to look at Heer. It was clear that Heer didn't see the effect her words had on Prem. Heer was so lost in her own painful memories that she didn't realize, in doing so, she hurt Prem.
Meher decided to take matters into her own hands. It was terrible to see her older sister go through heart break...she wasn't going to see her older brother suffer from heart break too.
Meher placed a soft hand on Heer's shoulder. "Didi...come..." Meher encouraged softly.
Before Heer could protest, Meher continued, "Heer didi...I know it will bring back painful memories...but you can't let that control your decisions. We just recently got you back and we don't want to lose you...but moving on doesn't mean you avoid what reminds you of Manmeet." Meher took Heer's hand and squeezed it, "People who care about you will be there tonight...Ashlesha...me...Preet...and Prem bhaiya..."
Heer made eye contact with Meher at the mention of Prem's name. Knowing that her arrow hit the target, Meher continued, "Didi...Prem bhaiya has been there for you through this whole time...supporting you. He has become the one person that you can rely on the most...especially when Manmeet fell short..."
Heer blinked, trying to hold in her tears...it was true...so true. The man she loved with her whole heart fell short. And the man who she despised since childhood...has completely taken her by surprise.
"We all know that Manmeet isn't a bad person...but he lacked strength when it mattered most. And then there is Prem bhaiya..." Meher voiced, the thought of her Prem bhaiya bringing a smile to her youthful face. "Didi...Prem bhaiya stepped in when you needed someone the most. He knew that you loved another...and that you never liked him, but he looked passed all that and just protected you. He didn't care about what people thought. It didn't matter that you guys always bickered...all he saw was that YOU were hurting. And he didn't hesitate to stand next to you."
"Come tonight Heer didi...come for Prem bhaiya.. He deserves that much from you." Meher said, hoping she was pushing Heer in the right direction.
Heer's eyes were glossy. Meher's words were ringing in her ears and Heer felt a tight squeeze in her heart. It wasn't a painful feeling...it was something else. Heer couldn't understand what that feeling exactly was...but she knew what she had to do. It was true...Prem did deserve that much. When Meher felt Heer squeeze her hand back...Meher knew she got through to Heer.
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The St. Xavier Tigers made their way to the basketball court as they were announced, one by one. When Prem was announced, he jogged to the court and high fived a few of his fellow team mates. Prem ignored the stinging in his chest and tried to place his whole focus on the game. Once the two teams were introduced, the players took their positions for the tip off. Prem reached his position and focused at the center of the court.
But right that moment, he felt a flutter in his heart. Prem turned to the audience and his eyes zeroed in on Heer. She was sitting in the bleachers with Meher and Ashlesha. Their eyes connected and Heer gave him a sweet smile. Prem's heart swelled and he felt himself falling a little deeper for her. Was he falling in love with Heer? He didn't know...but what he felt in that moment was far deeper than any crush or simple attraction.
The buzzer sounded as the game kicked off. A St. Xavier Tiger stole the ball and passed it to Prem. Prem effortlessly caught it and shot the ball, seeing it swish through the net earning the Tigers their first point of the night. The crowd cheered and Prem saw Heer, Meher, and Ashlesha stand up as well, clapping.
Prem grinned and pointed at Heer as he ran back, letting the whole crowd know that this point was dedicated to Heer Juneja. Heer's jaw dropped a little at Prem's gesture and she felt herself blush. The crowd cheered even harder and some people even whistled. Meher and Ashlesha grinned as Heer placed a hand over her burning face, but she couldn't help but smile at the charming gesture.
The game continued with the Tigers leading for the most part. It was clear that they were state champions for a reason. There was a moment were the opposing team took the lead. The game was nearing the end of its fourth quarter and they were trying their best to prevent the Tigers from scoring again.
Preet stole the ball and passed it to Prem. Heer and the rest of the crowd cheered as Prem neared the basket. Completely focused on the game, Heer cheered for Prem and encouraged him to score. As if on cue, Prem jumped and was about to shoot the ball when a member of the opposing team deliberately slammed his shoulder into Prem, causing Prem to come down crashing on the hard wooden floor.
"Prem!" Heer yelled as the crowd gasped and the referee called a foul. Prem's face contorted in pain as he held onto his aching shoulder, which took most of the hit. Heer's heart stopped and everything faded around her. She watched as the referee and a paramedic inspected Prem's injury. She didn't take her eyes off Prem. Common Prem...get up...'' Heer prayed. She felt a tight grip in her stomach as Prem struggled. He rolled his arm, testing his shoulder, and nodded at the paramedic, letting him know that it was ok.
The crowd cheered as Prem stood up. Heer didn't realize she was holding her breath. She let it out and felt the grip in her stomach loosen as relief overtook the fear she felt. The intensity of her feelings surprised her. Heer never thought that seeing Prem in pain would affect her so. It's like...she stopped breathing for a moment and felt nothing but cold fear. What was happening to her?
Heer didn't have time to ponder because Prem stood at the free throw line and scored 2 points, putting the Tigers back in the lead. Prem covered it well, but Heer saw that he was in pain. His right shoulder was more stiff that usual. He should sit down...he shouldn't be playing injured. But knowing Prem Juneja, he always put others first. And true enough, he played till the end of the game ensuring that the Tigers won.
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When Prem, Heer, and Preet entered Juneja mansion Gayatri was the first to greet them, followed by Lalit. She went straight to Prem, concern on her face. Preet told her over the phone of Prem's fall and she has been worried ever since.
"Prem...are you all right? Should I call the doctor?" Gayatri asked, placing a caring hand on Prem's shoulder.
"No maa, I'm ok...really...it was nothing." Prem replied, playing it off causally.
"Arre what it was nothing? PB we can all still hear the ringing from your fall." Preet said, knowing full well that the fall wasn't as little as Prem was making it out to be.
Prem brushed off Preet. "Maa aap Preet ke batho ko seriously mat lena...woh over react kar raha hai...mein bikul teek hoon." Prem reassured.
Gayatri looked unconvinced but Lalit stepped in, "Ok...why don't you kids go on up. It's getting late. Prem...I'll call the doctor tomorrow." Lalit concluded.
"Papa I'm fine...really." Prem said again. Giving his parents another convincing smile, he made his way to his bedroom with Heer in tow.
When inside, Prem dropped his gym bag and pulled on his t-shirt to take it off. He got one side of the t-shirt off, but he struggled to lift his right shoulder. When Prem tried to remove the t-shirt, a sharp pain shot through and he winced.
Heer watched Prem's struggle and debated what she should do. It's not like this would be the first time she would see Prem shirtless...and he clearly needed help. Seeing Prem wince in pain again, Heer lost her inner battle and went to Prem.
"Let me help." Heer murmured. Not waiting for Prem's permission, Heer reached for his t-shirt and starting maneuvering it over his head. Prem stilled as he felt Heer's fingers brush his bare skin. Their eyes met and Heer tried to focus on the task at hand, trying not to hurt Prem further.
Despite the pain Prem was in, neither could deny that the moment was very intimate. Heer removing Prem's shirt...though the intent behind it was innocent. Feeling her face turning red, Heer looked away.
"Ummm...we should put something on that shoulder...I'll be right back...why don't you sit down?" Heer said, trying to keep her tone casual.
With that said, Heer entered the bathroom for the first aid kit in search of an ointment for sore muscles. Wearing just his sweat pants, Prem took a seat on the bed and waited.
When Heer reentered the bedroom holding an ointment, she stopped when she saw Prem sitting on the bed. He was leaned forward, elbows resting on his thighs, and his fingers intertwined with each other. Ok...she's seen him shirtless before...she's being ridiculous for feeling so nervous! What was wrong with her!? Heer mentally kicked herself.
Seeing Heer hesitate, Prem got a playful glint in his eye. "Kya hua? Mujhe shirtless dekh kar neeyat karab ho rahi hai kya?" He joked playfully, knowing full well that his comment would make Heer roll her eyes. But also knowing, that his comment would break the uncomfortable silence between them.
Heer shook her head at Prem and sat next to him on the bed. "How is your ego so big?" Heer asked Prem the rhetorical question, the playful banter returning between them. Prem simply chuckled and let Heer apply the balm on his injured shoulder. When Heer touched a certain area, she saw Prem flinch and her heart squeezed in reaction.
"Prem...neeche jhoot kyun bola? You need to see a doctor..." Heer said, her hand gently rubbing his shoulder.
Prem looked at Heer and smiled, "I will...mein bas...maa aur papa ko pareshaan nahin karna chaata tha..." he replied, honestly.
Heer's hand stilled on Prem's shoulder. She stared at him...wondering how a man can be so devilish and so sweet at the same time. "You never cease to amaze me..." Heer said, more to herself than to Prem.
Prem held Heer's gaze. It would be so easy to kiss her in this moment. He just had to lean in a little bit...and he knew their lips would touch. He didn't, however. Now was not the right time. If Prem kissed Heer now, she may regret it later. He had to make sure that Heer reciprocated his feelings...and only then...he would take their relationship to the next level.
"We...we should go to sleep." Prem said, breaking the moment and standing up to walk to the couch.
Heer hesitated for a moment before stopping Prem, "Prem..." When she had his attention, the words that left her lips surprised both of them, "Tum bed par soh sakte ho...I don't mind..."
The look that passed between them was electricity. A lot of words could have been said...but the look was enough. Prem knew that this was a big step for Heer. Without really saying it, Heer declared that she trusted him enough to share the bed with him.
Not saying anything, Prem walked to the bedroom light switching it off and ushering the room into darkness. Heer got under the blanket and so did Prem. The moment should have been very awkward...but it wasn't, much to Heer's surprise. There was an odd comfort that surrounded them...and it wasn't long before both fell into a peaceful sleep. Late at night, when Prem unconsciously placed an arm over Heer's waist and pulled her close, she didn't pull away.CHAPTER 22
A few weeks had passed since Prem's injury and he seemed to be on his way to a speedy recovery. When Heer and Prem woke up the next morning after sharing the bed for the first time, things were pleasantly awkward at first. Prem had his arm around Heer's waist and that is how they woke up. Clearing their throats they separated and went about their morning routine.
There was an odd comfort that had developed between Heer and Prem. They weren't walking around egg shells with each other anymore. And this bond didn't go unnoticed by the rest of the family.
The Junejas were sitting at the dining table, eating breakfast and chit chatting as usual.
"Beta...how long will you be gone for?" Lalit asked, as he picked up a spoonful of scrambled eggs.
"Just a few days papa." Prem answered, and took a sip of his orange juice. Breeding season was in full swing and Prem had to go back to the Juneja ranch to oversee some of the breeding of his horses.
Heer quietly ate her breakfast. She remembered her conversation with Prem when they were at the farmhouse the last time.
*Flashback*
"That sounds fascinating. You know...after seeing Sweetheart give birth...the whole process looks so much more interesting." Heer replied, conversation flowing freely between them. "How do you know which horses are best matched?" Heer asked, genuinely curious.
"Tell you what..." Prem began, "...Mares are most fertile during the spring and I have to come back here in a few weeks for breeding season. Come back with me. You will get to see everything." Prem said.
*Flashback end*
She wanted to go with Prem...but didn't say anything and quietly ate her breakfast.
"Heer...I want to leave around noon...so you have enough time to pack." Prem said, casually, catching Heer off guard.
"Huh?" Heer asked, not quite sure she understood.
Prem gave a confused look, "You said you wanted to see the horses breed right? I thought you would want to come with me..." He said, his voice slightly trailing off.
Gayatri and Lalit shared a knowing glance, trying to hide smiles.
He remembered...'' was all Heer thought. Prem Juneja was really surprising her at every corner. A conversation that took place weeks ago...something so simple...he remembered.
"Yes...of course." Heer replied, giving Prem a genuine smile. The kind of smile that lit up the room.
Prem smiled back, unaware at how his simple comment touched Heer. Prem then turned to Preet, "Preet tu bhi tayar rehna...I don't want to hit traffic and be late." Prem said.
Preet looked from Prem to Heer...and then back at Prem...and the wheels in his head started turning. "PB I won't manage to go this time...I have...chemistry...yea...I have a chemistry test I have to study for." Preet replied, trying to sound convincing.
Prem gave Preet a skeptical look, not buying Preet's excuse for one second.
"Oh common Preet. It'll be fun." Heer tried to convince him, completely oblivious to what Preet was up to.
"Nahin di...mujhe chemistry bikhul bhi samajh mein nahi aata...I really have to study." Preet rambled, giving Prem a knowing look.
That's when Prem caught on. Preet could pass chemistry in his sleep. He was trying to get away so Prem and Heer could have time alone. Prem bit the inside of his cheek to keep from grinning and spoiling Preet's plan.
The scene was not going unnoticed by Lalit and Gayatri either. Both tried to hide their smiles, knowing exactly what their youngest son was trying to do.
Lalit decided to settle the matter, "Heer...you and Prem go. I need Preet here for an important meeting also. Since Prem is gone, Preet will go with me."
Preet caught Prem's eye and winked at him. Prem simply grinned and shook his head at his younger brother's antics. Completely oblivious of the conspiracy that just took place, Heer picked up her spoon and continued to eat her breakfast.
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Prem pulled the car into the Juneja farmhouse driveway, and on cue, Brijraj kaka came out and greeted Prem and Heer. Several servants came out as well and carried the bags inside the house.
"How are you uncle Brijraj?" Prem asked the elderly man, hugging him. Brijraj returned the hug, "Bikhul teek Prem baba." He replied.
He turned to greet Heer and Heer gave him a hug as well. It was so sweet to see that the eldest children of the two most influential families in India were so down to earth...greeting the butler as if he was part of the family.
The three of them entered the house and Brijraj instructed the servants to take Prem's bags into his bedroom.
"Heer betiya...which bedroom did you want to take?" Brijraj asked, assuming that Heer would want a separate bedroom like last time.
Heer hesitated, but went with her gut feeling when she answered, "Brijraj kaka...aap Prem ke kamre mein mera samaan rakh dijiye."
Prem blinked in surprise. Brijraj smiled, the skin around his aging face wrinkling at Heer's response as he carried one of the bags in the direction of Prem's bedroom.
Prem simply stared at Heer, not sure what to say. Heer saw Prem's questioning stare and spoke, "We're already sharing a room...it doesn't make sense to have separate rooms here." Heer said casually. She wasn't sure who she was trying to convince more...Prem or herself.
"Right..." Prem agreed, a small smile adorning his handsome face. When Heer walked away towards his bedroom, Prem's smile split into a full on grin at her retreating back. Damn...he was crazy about her.
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The next day, Lalit sat in the large conference room facing the board members of Juneja Hotels. Dressed in a sharp suit, Preet sat to Lalit's left and Lalit sat at the head of the table.
"Gentleman...I call this meeting today...because I have decided to start the transition of responsibilities to my eldest son Prem Juneja." Lalit announced, voice clear so the decision was heard throughout the room. Murmurs broke out amongst the board members.
Lalit continued, "Of course...the transition will not be immediate. But both my sons have been preparing for the responsibility of Juneja Hotels since they were kids." Lalit said proudly, glancing at Preet, who smiled in return. "I have decided that once Prem takes on the role of CEO...my youngest son, Preet, will start his training as Vice President...and I will happily retire." Lalit voiced.
Most of the board members clapped at the exciting news...all expect one. Mr. Manveer Singh, a man in his late 40's, was not too happy with the news. He has always wanted more power over Juneja Hotels and has worked his way up to a board member. However, he wanted the top most position...the position of CEO.
"This is ridiculous!" Mr. Singh roared. "Prem is a child! He isn't fit to be CEO." He argued.
The other board members hushed, some gasped at Mr. Singh's boldness. Everyone was aware of the ever present tension between Lalit Juneja and Manveer Singh.
Preet opened his mouth to give the rude man a piece of his mind, but his father's raised hand stopped him.
"Excuse me?" Lalit asked in a steely voice, his expression angry, "Prem is more than capable. Prem is my son and he is deserving of this position." Lalit argued.
"HAH!" Mr. Singh barked. "Do we really want to go down that route Mr. Juneja?" He replied cryptically, smiling when he saw he hit a nerve with Lalit.
Preet and the other board members looked at each other, confused at what Mr. Singh meant. Lalit, however, seemed to understand because his face slightly paled. Keeping composure, Lalit turned to the rest of the group.
"Please give Mr. Singh and I some privacy." Lalit said. The strict order was followed without argument and soon only Mr. Singh and Lalit were in the conference room.
"What are you talking about?" Lalit asked directly, not beating around the bush.
Mr. Singh gave an evil smile...almost snake like...just like his nature. "I think you know...it's such a well hidden secret really..." He said, trying to push Lalit's buttons.
Lalit understood perfectly. He kept his eyes steady...even when his heart dropped. "I want you gone." Lalit said simply.
Mr. Singh's face turned red with fury. "You can't get rid of me! I gave too many years to this company!" He barked.
Lalit stayed calm, "This company belongs to my son. Prem will be the CEO of Juneja Hotels whether you like it or not. I want you gone by the end of today. I will not tolerate any more of your behavior." Lalit said.
Furious, Mr. Singh made his way to the door, but before exiting, he gave Lalit one final blow, "You will regret this." And with that said, Mr. Singh made his exit.
Lalit let out a shaky breath and took out his cell phone, his hands shaking a little as he dialed.
"Hello." Gayatri spoke into the phone. When she heard Lalit's shaky breath on the other end of the line she instantly knew that something was wrong.
"Kya hua? Aap teek toh hai?" Gayatri asked, extremely concerned.
She quietly listened as Lalit explained to her what had just taken place. Stunned, Gayatri sunk to the nearest chair.
"How is this possible? How can he possibly know? We were so careful..." Gayatri asked, panicking a little at the news.
"I don't know Gayatri...he might be lying...but I plan on finding out exactly how much he knows." Lalit said into the phone, trying to comfort his wife and trying to reassure himself as well.CHAPTER 23
Heer rolled, slowly waking from sleep and felt a weight around her waist. Her eyes fluttered open and the first thing she saw is Prem.
He was still sleeping. Eyes closed...face innocent. She tried to move but the weight of his arm prevented her from doing so. He did this every night since they started sharing the bed. It's like he unconsciously reached for her in the middle of the night...and held on. Heer never thought that she would think this, but...it felt...nice. There was a nice comfort in this. Being held each night...she felt...protected. She expected to feel awkward, but she didn't. And she couldn't quite pin point what she was feeling every time she woke up to Prem like this, shirtless, unguarded, and peaceful.
Heer tried to gently move Prem's arm, careful not to wake him. Once free, she quietly rolled off the bed. She froze when Prem shifted, trying to find another comfortable position before falling back to sleep. Giving a sigh of relief, Heer tip toed to the bathroom and got ready for the day.
Dressed in casual attire, Heer came out of the bathroom to see Prem sitting up, rubbing his sleepy eyes.
"Good morning sleepy head." Heer said, smiling. Prem smiled back and responded, still a little drowsy.
"Go get dressed...breakfast should be ready soon...we should probably head to the stables soon too right?" Heer spoke, excited to get started. "What are we going to do first? I'm sure you have to check on Raja's and Layla's health first right?" Heer babbled on without missing a beat, too excited. She didn't want to miss a single thing today.
"Yes General." Prem replied, cheekily, his voice teasing.
"Prem!" Heer said, crossing her arms and pretending to be annoyed.
"I'm kidding! I'm kidding..." Prem said, chuckling, as he made his way to the bathroom. Once the bathroom door closed, Heer shook her head and giggled. Some things will never change.
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After breakfast, Prem and Heer walked over to the stables. They were greeted by Marcus as soon as they entered. Getting straight to business, Marcus started telling Prem the current happenings of the stables. Changes made to any horse's diet, health conditions, statistics, and anything else worth mentioning.
As Prem walked over to Layla's stall and spoke to Marcus, Heer went to Sweetheart's stall. Sweetheart stuck out her head and greeted Heer lovingly. Heer rubbed Sweetheart's neck and chuckled when Mischief trotted over for some attention as well.
When Prem approached them, Sweetheart instantly gave her attention to him and nuzzled his shoulder. "Hi beautiful." Prem said, smiling widely and generously rubbing Sweetheart's neck.
Heer's heart gave a loud thud, surprised at her reaction to Prem. The bond Prem shared with this mare was probably one of the sweetest things Heer has ever seen. And it has become one of Heer's favorite qualities of Prem. Wait...this was new...'' Heer blinked, suddenly taken aback by her train of thought. Since when did she start liking qualities of Prem Juneja? She liked his qualities as a friend. Yes...that was it. They have become close over the last few months and she just appreciated Prem as a friend. That's all it was.
"What are you thinking?" Prem asked, noticing that Heer was staring.
Heer broke out of her reverie and brushed off the question. "Nothing...I was just wondering how Sweetheart is so fond of you..." Heer replied, not completely lying.
"Because I'm so charming...right Sweetheart?" Prem replied smoothly, giving Sweetheart another neck rub and grinning when she neighed, like she was agreeing with him.
Heer opened her mouth to give a witty response when she heard angry hoof beats. Prem and Heer looked down the stables to see a stable boy struggling with Raja's reigns.
"Looks like you're being summoned." Heer said, her sweet insult holding no fire behind it. Heer giggled when Prem glared at her and made his way to Raja. He easily took hold of Raja's reigns and ordered him to behave. Heer felt the twist in her gut. Man and beast were face to face again, battling to see who was more powerful.
Heer didn't have time to ponder on this feeling. Prem walked Raja out to the compound and waved at Heer, indicating her to follow him. Several crew members walked out as well, one stable boy walking Layla.
Once outside, the crew members prepared for the breeding ritual. They made sure Layla was steady and slowly let go of her reigns. Heer stood to the side, fascinated, as Prem explained a few logistics to Heer. Why Raja and Layla were paired. Why spring was the best season for breeding. What traits they were hoping to get with the foal when Layla got pregnant. Heer had no idea that there was so much science behind the breeding process.
Not wanting to miss a single detail, Heer had her eyes glued to the center of the compound, seeing crew members trying to keep Raja and Layla calm before the breeding process started.
"What happens now?" Heer asked, trying to soak in all this information.
"Well...now...we just let them do their thing..." Prem replied. As if on cue, the crew members back away and Raja slowly started to approach Layla. Raja walked around Layla a little, getting a feel for her. He nipped at her, nudged her, and Layla neighed and stomped her front hooves. Raja backed away. Raja trotted a little and stomped his front hooves...getting a little anxious at the rejection.
Prem rushed to Raja's side and grabbed his reigns, steadying him. Raja stomped his hooves some more, resisting. But Prem held on and placed a hand on Raja's neck, calming him. Once Prem felt Raja become steady, he slowly released the reigns and took a step back. Heer watched the whole display from the other side of the compound, completely fascinated.
This time when Raja approached Layla, he approached more cautiously. He nudged her once, and when Layla didn't push him away, Raja nuzzled her neck. When Layla slightly lifted her tale, Raja knew that she was ready.
What happened next was no science. It was mating in its truest form...just raw animal instinct. Heer felt her cheeks turn hot at the sight before her. The heavy breathing...the rhythmic motion between two partners...the sounds of being taken...hard...and rough. Without realizing, Heer's eyes fell on Prem who was standing across from her on the other side of the compound. Her breath hitched when she saw that Prem was already looking at her. The air turned heavy. His eyes were clouded...intense. His face was expressionless, his jaw tense. It was clear what he was thinking as he was looking at her and Heer felt a liquid pull in her stomach. It became hard to breath as her heart beat increased. The air intensified and it became hot. Mating was in the air.
It was that moment...when Heer realized that she was insanely attracted to Prem. It wasn't friendship...it wasn't comfort...it was pure, animal, attraction. In that moment, Heer realized that she wanted Prem Juneja. She wanted to know what it would be like to kiss him...what it would feel like to be under him...his chiseled body pressing down on her...his large hands all over her...caressing her...grabbing her...taking her.
Heer let out a shaky breath, her heart beat so loud that she feared someone else might hear it. She saw a gleam enter Prem's eyes and the side of his lips turn up a little in a sly smile. He knew...he knew what she was thinking in that moment as well. Face burning with heat, Heer broke their eye contact and looked away.
The mating ritual soon ended and the crew members got busy in cleaning up and taking the horses back to their stalls. Prem approached Heer and Heer pretended to watch the crew members tend to Raja and Layla.
Butterflies scattered in Heer's stomach as she tried to mentally prepare herself to be around Prem after her moment of revelation. Prem had a dangerous gleam in his eyes as he approached her. Heer was certain that Prem will say something about their little eye lock session earlier, and Heer wasn't sure how she was going to respond.
It seems as Heer's prayers were answered. Just has Prem stopped in front of Heer about to say something, a stable boy interrupted Prem.
"Sir...Mr. Khanna is here to meet with you." The boy said.
Prem frowned, "Why? I declined his offer over the phone. Raja is not for sale." Prem said, confused as to why Mr. Khanna would make the trouble to personally come here.
"He insists on meeting with you in person Sir...he thinks he can change your mind." The boy explained.
Letting out a frustrated sigh, Prem asked the stable boy to bring Mr. Khanna into the compound.
"Who is Mr. Khanna?" Heer asked curiously.
"He is the heir to Khanna Textiles." Prem answered, "He offered to buy Raja a few weeks ago and I declined the offer."
"He sounds stubborn..." Heer said, the name ringing a bell in her memory.
Heer's eyes widened in surprise as Shiv Khanna entered the compound. He was a handsome man, the years only adding to his good looks. A polished aura only an heir to an empire can achieve.
"Heer?" Shiv asked, stopping in his tracks in surprise.
"Shiv!" Heer let out an excited laugh as Shiv took two giant steps towards Heer and swept her up in a bear hug.
Prem's jaw dropped a little at the public display of affection. This was completely not expected.
"Heer how are you!? It's been what...ten years?" Shiv asked, a huge grin on his face.
"Yes! Oh my gosh...it's so good to see you...what have you been up to?" Heer asked, excited to see an old friend.
Prem cleared his throat, getting Shiv and Heer's attention. He became invisible for a moment there.
"Oh sorry! Shiv...meet Prem Juneja, my husband. Prem...Shiv Khanna...we met in summer camp several years ago." Heer introduced the two men. Prem shook Shiv's hand and didn't like the fact that Shiv still had his arm around Heer.
"Pleasure to meet you Prem. Did Heer ever tell you how she was my first girlfriend in summer camp?" Shiv said teasingly, causing Heer to slap his arm.
"What?" Prem asked, a little shocked at the news. He decided right then and there that he didn't like this guy.
"It's all rubbish!" Heer retorted. "Shiv mere peeche para tah summer camp mein...and I never gave him the time of day."
"Jhooti! The whole camp knew that you liked me." Shiv retaliated, the comfort level between him and Heer evident.
"Excuse me...but you came to see me about something?" Prem cut it, trying to keep him annoyance hidden.
"Oh yes!" Shiv replied, completely oblivious to Prem's animosity.
"I was hoping you and I can talk numbers...regarding Raja." Shiv said, letting go of Heer and switching smoothly into business mode.
"I've said before, Raja is not for sale." Prem replied calmly, turning on his business mode as well.
"Yes...but he is a fine horse...I am willing to pay any asking amount." Shiv urged.
"Not interested." Prem replied smoothly.
"He will be well taken care of" Shiv continued to push.
"Raja ko kabhu mein karna...sab ki bas ki baat nahin hai." Prem responded, the pride evident in his voice. "The answer is still no." Prem concluded.
Shiv turned to Heer, pleading her for some help, "Heer...yaar...tum toh thodi help kar doh...for old time's sake." Shiv requested.
Heer looked from Shiv to Prem. Shiv with pleading eyes and Prem with an expressionless face. If she didn't know any better, she could have sworn that Prem didn't like Shiv.
"Sorry Shiv..." Heer voiced, "Mein Prem ko jaanti hoon...he won't give up Raja." Heer said, seeing the tension on Prem's face dissolve a little.
Shiv sighed, defeated, "Fine...fine..." He said giving up. "But you have to make it up to me...aaj mere saat dinner karna hoga." Shiv said, his playful personality bouncing back.
Heer giggled, "Fine. Dinner it is." She agreed easily. The green fingers of jealousy gripped Prem's gut. He clenched and unclenched his fist a few times, trying to control his temper.
"Arre Prem...join us too...I'd love to know how you got a beautiful girl like Heer to marry you. Mein toh das saal se try kar raha hoon." Shiv said, causing Heer to playfully slap his arm.
Trying very hard to not punch the guy, Prem let out a slow breath. "No...I have some things to take care of tonight. You and Heer can go ahead. Aur vaise bhi...doston ke beech mera kya kaam?" Prem said, trying to sound as polite as possible.
Shiv nor Heer had the chance to argue as Prem heard his name being called. Excusing himself, he walked into the stables with Heer watching his retreating back, trying to figure out why Prem's behavior felt a little off.
******************************************
*Later that Night*
It was pouring rain outside as Heer entered the Juneja farmhouse. "Prem!" Heer called out, and got no response. Dinner with Shiv was a fun affair. They always got along really well and they had 10 years worth of catching up to do. It was around 8:00pm at night when Heer returned and the house was pretty quiet. At hearing Heer's voice, Brijraj kaka came.
"Kaka...Prem kaha hai?" Heer asked.
"He went out for a ride...he has not returned yet." Brijraj replied obediently.
Heer frowned, a little concerned. It was raining pretty hard outside. Heer looked at the weather outside, the rain beating down on the concrete floor, and made a split second decision. "I'll go check the stables...maybe Prem is still there." Heer said as she started walking to the main door.
"Arre beti...bahar mausam bohut karab hai..." Brijraj kaka said, concerned.
Heer smiled, "Don't worry. I'll be fine." Heer replied. And with that said, she ran into the storm and made her way to the stables, hoping that Prem might be there.
**********************************************
The rain beat down on Prem and Raja. He pulled on the reigns and Raja trotted his way to the stables. Prem went out for a ride after Heer left for her dinner with Shiv. He needed to keep busy. Once all the work was done at the stables and the horses were tended, he still felt uneasy and hoped that the ride would help.
It didn't help. He was still in a bad mood. He was honestly being ridiculous. So what if Heer went to dinner with an old friend. There was nothing to be jealous about. But the way Shiv kept putting his arm around Heer and the easy comfort between them bothered him. It took years for Heer and him to even be friends, and yet here was this guy, who just swooped in and had that with Heer so easily.
Irritated, Prem dismounted and guided Raja into his stall. Completely soaked, Prem pulled off his shirt and wiped his face and hair and tossed the wet shirt to the side. In just his jeans, he started doing one final check on all the horses for the night.
As Prem was refilling Raja's water, he heard running footsteps amongst the pitter patter of the rain outside. Curios, he looked at the entrance of the stable just as Heer came rushing in.
"Heer?" Prem asked, surprised. "Are you crazy!? It's pouring outside!" Prem scolded, seeing Heer soaked.
She walked in further and tried to shake some of the water from her hair. He walked passed her and closed the stable doors to keep the rain from coming in.
Irritated, Prem crossed his arms across his chest, "What are you doing out here? You could get really sick." Prem lectured.
Heer looked at him up and down. Hair wet and tousled, jeans riding low, and a chiseled body still gleaming with droplets of water. Heer felt desire kick her in the gut.
Heer cleared her throat, "I was looking for you. Brijraj kaka said you went for a ride and didn't come back...I wanted to check to see if you were here." Heer replied, trying to keep her eyes from wandering.
Prem looked at Heer and saw that she was completely soaked. Her thick hair made curls around her angelic face, her cheeks were flushed, and her clothes clung to her, shaping out her curvaceous figure. His throat dried as lust gripped him, and that didn't help his foul mood.
Prem walked passed Heer and started refreshing some hay in an empty stall. "How was your date?" Prem asked, curtly, his tone a little harsh.
Heer frowned at Prem's curt behavior, and stood at the entrance of the empty stall as Prem worked. "What's gotten into you?" Heer asked straight forwardly. Prem ignored Heer and got more hay and continued to work.
Feeling her own temper rising, Heer crossed her arms, "What the hell is wrong with you? You've barely spoken to me since this afternoon?" Heer spit out, irritated herself.
"Did you have fun with Shiv?" Prem spat out, "Must have been a good time since you were gone for hours and didn't even bother to call." His angrily dropped hay on the floor and started spreading it out with more force than needed.
Heer frowned, studying Prem's foul mood. She knew Prem enough to know that he wasn't the controlling type. He couldn't be so mad because she simply didn't call him. She studied Prem's stern face as he angrily worked. It dawned on her then.
"You're jealous." Heer said, smiling when she saw that she hit a nerve.
Prem paused and glared at Heer, who was looking at him smugly. "I am not jealous." Prem gritted out.
"Yes...you are...You're jealous of Shiv." Heer teased, grinning as she saw Prem's jaw clench.
"Jealous of that guy!? Seriously!? There is nothing to be jealous about!" Prem argued, temper simmering because Heer was absolutely right.
"I see..." Heer said slowly, enjoying this very much, "...well then you don't mind if I go out with him again right?" Heer said, testing Prem.
Prem's eyes sparked, the temper very evident now. He stayed quiet so Heer poked further, "...I think I'll go call him...see if he is free tomorrow night for a 2nd date." Heer said and turned to leave.
What happened next, Heer would never have anticipated in her wildest dreams. Prem grabbed her arm, spun her around roughly, and crashed his lips on hers. Just as roughly, he pulled back and held Heer by her arms. "Khabardar...khabardar joh uss ke paas gayi toh. Aisa sochna bhi mat!" Prem crashed Heer's body to his and roughly took her lips again.
"Tum meri ho. Tum par sirf mera haq hai!" Another rough kiss. "Bachpan se tumhe cherne ka haq mera hai..." He backed her against the wall and gave her another punishing kiss. "...Tum jab udaas hoti ho...tumhe hassane ka haq mera hai...suna tumne? Tumhari hassi par sirf mera haq hai!" He gave another punishing kiss, "Tumhari neend par bhi mera haq...tumhari dhadkan par mera haq hai...tumhari saanson par mera haq hai!" Prem voiced and took Heer under with another rough kiss. Prem pulled back and glared, breathing heavy, "...Khabardar joh usske pas gayi toh...khabardar!" Prem held onto Heer's arms, his eyes flaming with temper as he said those words. Damn all reason to hell. She was his. That's it!
Heer stood, completely stunned, not sure what to say...or do. She was mesmerized. She's never seen Prem like this...so angry...so passionate. When Heer didn't say anything, Prem's temper started to quiet down. He tried to get a hold on his desire as well...he was feeling so many things at this moment. When the cloud of anger mixed with desire started clearing from his head, it was then Prem realized that he was probably scaring Heer.
Letting go of Heer's arms and abruptly taking a step back, Prem started to apologize, "I'm...I'm sorry...I shouldn't have acted like that...I'm..." This time, however, Prem was the one that was taken by surprise. He didn't get to finish his sentence because Heer wrapped her arms around Prem's neck and dragged his face down to hers for another kiss.
To hell with caution...with questions...with unsorted feelings. Feeling his control snap, Prem grabbed Heer's waist and crushed her body onto his. They kissed with fervor...it was all passion. Heer let out a moan when Prem latched his lips onto her neck. She tilted her head to give him more access. Prem dragged Heer to the floor and gave her another demanding kiss. Heer matched Prem's passion and gave just as much as she took.
Their breaths were heavy...their hands fast. Heer scraped her nails over Prem's bare abs and then dug them into his back. Prem retaliated by scraping his teeth over Heer's collar bone, causing Heer to moan again. Everything was hot...and everything was fast. Hands were everywhere at once, rough, bruising, and it all felt spectacular. It was animalistic...and it was amazing.
Prem and Heer rolled around, each trying to get the upper hand. Just when Heer started to reach for the zipper to Prem's jeans, Prem heard a noise. He paused when he heard someone trying to open the stable main door.
"What is it?" Heer asked, confused when Prem stopped. "Shhh..." Prem shushed, and listened harder.
Prem and Heer's eyes widened when the main stable door opened and they heard someone enter. They jumped apart from each other and tried to compose themselves. Prem put a finger to his lips, indicating Heer to be quiet, and walked out of the stall to see who it was.
It was a servant from the main house. "Tum yahan kya kar rahe ho?" Prem asked as casually as possible. Completely oblivious to what he interrupted, the servant boy held out a phone to Prem. "Lalit saab ka phone hai...kehte hai ke bahut zaaroori hai." The servant boy said.
Prem took the phone from the servant boy's hand, "Thank you...tum jaa sakte ho." Prem said, making sure that the boy left.
When the coast was clear, Heer stepped out from the stall. Their eyes met, and the atmosphere turned hot in one instant. The look that passed between was pure fire. Neither could stop thinking about what just transpired between them.
Still looking at Heer, Prem lifted the phone to his ear. "Hello? Yes papa...what's so urgent?" He asked.
It was sooo beautiful update dear. First Heer doing first-aid to a shirtless Prem, then their cute small and unknown closeness in the bed and filnally the stable scene...wonderful☺️. Though it was more of a passionate raging and desiring kind of romance...I loved it. After all it was Premeer. Really you are an wonderful writer👏.
But you ended it in a cliffhanger and why do i feel that there is a mystery which is related to prem? (i don't know if i am right or wrong but i feel that Prem is not Lalit and Gayatri's own son).
Do post soon...eagerly waiting.
Thanks for the pm.
CHAPTER 24
Heer looked at Prem's side profile as he drove. They were almost at Juneja mansion. When Lalit uncle called that night, he didn't reveal much over the phone. He just said that something urgent as come up and Prem needs to return as soon as possible. It was clear that something was terribly wrong. Lalit uncle sounded extremely nervous and as a result, Prem and Heer have been tense ever since the phone call. They grabbed their belongings and left immediately, driving through the night.
And those words he spoke to her... "tum par sirf mera haq hai"...did he mean it? He was angry...but did he really mean those words? Heer won't deny the attraction that was between her and Prem...but what he said just made their relationship so much deeper than attraction. Was she even ready for something deeper?
Heer's thoughts went to what happened before the phone call, and her face automatically flushed. That was...something. Heer had never experienced anything like that in her whole life...never. It was so...crazy. With Manmeet...it was always sweet and soft. But with Prem...Heer thought, her heartbeat increasing at the mere thought of it...it was hot...fast...passionate...and just plain crazy. She felt...desired...and it was a good feeling.
Just as the first rays of the rising sun peaked through the dark night, they pulled up the Juneja drive way. Heer and Prem exited the vehicle and as Heer turned, about to walk towards the entrance of the house when Prem's voice stopped her.
"Heer..." Prem said, breaking Heer away from her thoughts.
"Hmm?" She asked, turning and facing Prem, indicating that he had her attention.
"About last night..." Prem began, trying to find the right words. What happened between them completely blew his mind away. But he definitely wasn't expecting to jump her like that. It was so unexpected and he wanted to make sure that he didn't scare her.
"I'm sorry..." Prem uttered, not sure what else to say.
Heer frowned, surprised that she felt insulted at his apology. Did he regret their kiss last night? Did he regret all those words?
Seeing the look on Heer's face Prem instantly knew that he said the wrong thing. When Heer turned to walk away, Prem grabbed her hand. "No!" He said, making her stop. "That's not how I meant it."
When Heer turned to face Prem again, he let out a frustrated breath and held on to Heer's hand tighter. "I just...I was just in a really bad mood...and I'm sorry that I was rough...I never wanted our first kiss to be...like that...I don't want to scare you..." Prem trailed off, trying to be careful with his words this time around.
Heer's breath caught at his words. Their first kiss...hearing him say it only made it more real. "Prem...you didn't scare me...I...don't regret it..." Heer said, her face flushing when she said those words.
A gleam entered Prem's eyes hearing those words. "Yea?" He asked, liking her response. Prem gently tugged on Heer's hand, pulling her to him. When Heer didn't stop him, Prem wrapped his arms around her waist and held her. Automatically, Heer placed her hands on Prem's arms and stared at his smug expression.
It didn't annoy her. Now days...nothing about Prem seemed to annoy her. A few months ago, Heer would have scoffed at how arrogant Prem was...but now...she found his side of him charming. She found his possessiveness charming...this was another revelation...and she didn't know how process this new development.
"Prem...?" Heer said, "humare beech...yeh kya ho raha hai...?" she asked softly, so confused at what she was feeling right now. She already accepted the fact that she was insanely attracted to Prem...but these tender moments between them confused her...what he said to her in the heat of the moment confused her.
"Tumhe nahin pata?" Prem replied smoothly, as if he knew all the answers to this puzzle she was struggling with. He was falling for her. Prem knew in his heart that he was falling for Heer. This wasn't just friendship for him anymore...or even attraction...he was falling in love.
Heer stared at Prem. The way he was looking at her...it was not just desire Heer saw in Prem's eyes...there was something deeper. What it was...Heer wasn't able to decipher.
When Heer opened her mouth to reply, they heard the front door to Juneja mansion open. The moment interrupted, Heer and Prem pulled apart in time to see Preet come out.
"Bhai...aap aa gaye..." Preet said. Prem and Heer instantly noticed that Preet was not his jovial self. His face was extremely tense. Preet reached Prem and engulfed him in a tight hug.
Prem looked at Heer, a worried look passing between them. "Preet...kya hua?" Prem asked, extremely concerned.
Not saying anything, Preet simply led Prem and Heer into the living room. There, Lalit and Gayatri sat. The atmosphere was extremely tense. When Prem and Heer entered the room with Preet, Lalit and Gayatri stood up.
Prem felt a heavy feeling in his gut...something was extremely wrong.
"Prem..." Gayatri said, not able to say anything further.
"Maa...papa...kya hua?" Prem asked his parents, getting a sinking feeling with each passing second.
Prem and Heer noticed it then. The living room TV was on the news channel.
"Breaking news! World renowned hotelier Lalit Juneja's eldest son, Prem Juneja, is actually not a Juneja. He is adopted! Look at this adoption document. An insider from Juneja Hotels released his document and it clearly states that Lalit and Gayatri Juneja adopted their first son. Does this mean that Prem Juneja no longer will become the CEO of Juneja Hotels? Stayed tuned as we get more information on this!" The reporter said as the camera panned out.
Prem stepped back, his world staggering. Shocked, Prem stared at the TV screen and then back at his parents. No...it can't be true...
Prem looked at his father, his eyes holding a million questions. "This isn't true...right papa? Media toh kuch bhi bhol te rethe hai..." Prem said, not wanting to believe it. Lalit looked down, not being able to look Prem in the eye.
Prem turned to his mother, "Maa aap toh kuch kahiye...keh dijiye keh yeh jhoot hai...Sab jhoot hai!" Prem pleaded, his own eyes watering and his voice breaking. Gayatri closed her eyes and let out a sob.
Prem desperately looked from Lalit to Gayatri, and when neither was able to look at him in the eye...he knew...he knew that this was not a rumor. He was adopted.
Prem took a step back. His heart breaking into a million pieces. He was lied to his whole life...and he felt betrayed.
"Prem?" Gayatri questioned, seeing Prem taking a step back.
Prem took another step back...he needed distance...he needed to think.
Heer stood to the side, her own eyes wet. She couldn't imagine what Prem was feeling at this moment. "Prem?" she questioned when she saw Prem not respond to Gayatri. Her eyes frowned in confusion when Prem took another step back.
Prem gave his parents' one last look and turned to leave. "Prem!" Gayatri and Lalit called out. Preet and Heer looked on stunned at the scene unfolding before them. Not stopping, Prem walked out.
**************************************************
The next day, Lalit, Gayatri, Preet, and Heer were sitting at the dining table as lunch was being served. Balraj, Teji, and Meher were also seated at the dining table. They had arrived first thing in the morning when Lalit informed them that Prem now knew the truth. No one slept a wink last night and no one had much of an appetite either. Prem never returned home last night and there was still no sign of him.
The room was extremely quiet because no one knew what to say. When Gayatri let out a soft sob, the quietness of the room shattered. Lalit stood up and placed a comforting hand on Gayatri's shoulder. Preet, Heer, and Meher looked at each other, not knowing what to say or do. It came as a shock to them that Prem was adopted. It was clear that this had taken place before either of them was born.
"How did they find out?" Gayatri sobbed quietly, "We were so careful...how did anyone find out?"
Lalit tried to hold in his own tears. Expect for Gayatri, him, Balraj, and Teji, no one knew of this secret. "I kept a copy of the adoption papers in my office safe...someone must have somehow seen that and made a copy...but who?" Lalit replied, trying to make sense of the situation.
"Is there anyone who you made an enemy of? Someone who isn't happy with Juneja Hotels?" Balraj questioned.
Realization hit Lalit then, "Manveer Singh..." Lalit murmured, "He was upset when I declared Prem as the next CEO...and I asked him to leave. He threatened me but I never thought he would find actual proof..." Lalit said, it all making sense now. Manveer somehow must have gotten a hold of the adoption paperwork and released it to the media. There was no other explanation for this.
The door to the dining room opened and in walked Prem. Everyone stood up and Gayatri rushed to Prem and hugged him. "Prem! Kaha tha beta? I was so worried!" Gayatri gushed, relief showing on her tear stained face.
Prem half heartedly hugged his mother and Gayatri could instantly sense that something was wrong. When Gayatri pulled away and stared at Prem's emotionless face, her heart sank.
Prem turned to stare at his father as Lalit took a step towards him. "Prem?" Lalit questioned, not sure what was going through Prem's mind.
"Papa...I don't want to be CEO." Prem declared.
"What?" Lalit exclaimed as everyone else in the roomed gasped. "Prem..." Lalit started to argue but Prem cut him off. "Nahin papa...I'm not a Juneja...so it doesn't make sense for me to become the CEO of Juneja Hotels." Prem said, his voice hollow.
Prem then turned to look at Preet, "Uss par sirf Preet ka haq hai." Prem said.
"Lekin PB..." Preet started to argue, but when Prem lifted his hand up, Preet immediately stopped.
Prem then turned to face his parents, "My decision is final." With that said, Prem left the living room, leaving everyone stunned.
"This is crazy!" Lalit exclaimed, to no one in particular. Everyone was still reeling from what had just taken place.
Preet clenched his fists, anger evident on his handsome face. The pain he saw on his big brother's face was unbearable. Preet turned to face Lalit, "Papa...just say the word...and I will personally take care of Manveer Singh..." Preet said, his voice low and dangerous.
In that moment, Preet despised Manveer Singh. He was the reason his big brother was hurting. Meher placed a comforting hand on Preet's shoulder, trying to calm his temper.
"Nahin beta..." Lalit replied, "Iss waqt humare liye Prem koh manana sabse zyaada zaroori hai. Manveer koh hum baadh mein dekh lenge." Lalit reasoned.
During this interaction, no one noticed that Heer had quietly slipped out of the room. When she entered Prem and her bedroom, Prem was standing by the balcony door, looking out at the garden view. Even with his back to Heer, she was able to tell that he was hurting.
Heer's heart clenched and she went with instinct. She walked up to Prem and wrapped her arms around him, hugging him from behind and placing her cheek on his tense shoulder. When Prem didn't pull away, Heer hugged him tighter.
Prem closed his eyes, feeling himself weakening. So he pulled away and put some distance between them. When he turned to look at Heer, his eyes were glistening with unshed tears. He looked miserable...and sad...so very sad.
"Prem..." Heer whispered, "...why did you do that?" she asked. Heer felt her heart ache when Prem continued to look at her with those sad eyes.
"How can I become the CEO of Juneja Hotels? I'm not a Juneja. I can't take this away from Preet...this all belongs to him." Prem closed his eyes, his emotions getting the better of him as he felt tears escape his eyes.
"For the first time...I don't know who I am" Prem whispered, "Mein raat bar sochta raha...mein kahan se aaya hoon...mera asli naam kya hai? Pehli baar...mein khud ko pehchaan nahi pah raha hoon..." Prem went on. The pain he felt in his chest was unbearable. "Mein kaun hoon Heer?" He asked.
Heer's own eyes were wet. She didn't have an answer for him and she has never seen Prem like this. Prem was always so confident, always so good at everything he did. But the man standing before her now was lost...and he was broken.
Heer couldn't see Prem like this. All she wanted to do was take his pain away...like he did with her.
When Heer approached Prem, she placed her hands on either sides of his face and looked him straight in the eye, "I don't care what anyone else says, you are my husband. Tum Prem ho...Prem." Heer said, her voice strong and steady.
When Prem stayed quiet, Heer continued, "Tum izzaat ho...apne maa aur papa ka. Tum prerna ho...apne chote bhai ka. Aur mere liye...tum himmat ho."
~Main toh teri...Saiyyan...~
Heer didn't know what came over her, but she continued, "Prem...jab Manmeet neh mujhe mandap peh chod diya tha...toh tumne mujhe sambhala. Tumne mujhe phirse zindagi se milaya. Main nahin jaanti keh tumahara asli naam kya hai...lekin tum mere liye Prem ho. Woh insaan...jisne bina kuch soche...bina kuch samjhe...mujhse shaadi ki. Mujhe zaleel hone se bachaya."
~Tu hai mera...Saiyyan...~
Prem was mesmerized by Heer's words. The storm he has been feeling inside him started to calm.
"Tumhara naam...tumhari dil ki pehchaan hai. Joh tumne mere liye kiya...woh koi aur nahin kar sakta. Yeh baath humesha yaad rakna...tum Prem ho." Heer concluded. It was like something divine had entered Heer when she said those words to Prem. She wanted to take all his pain away, and so everything she said, came straight from her heart.
~Saiyyan...~
Prem sighed and lowered his forehead to Heer's. The anguish he was feeling lessened. This time when Heer wrapped her arms around Prem, he returned the hug and held on tight.
~Saiyyan...~
************************************************
When nightfall came, Prem woke up from sleep when he felt someone gently shake him. He opened his sleepy eyes to see Heer looking down at him.
"Heer? What happened?" Prem asked, sitting up. Heer didn't say anything; she simply took his hand and pulled him up.
"Heer?" Prem asked again, confused by Heer's behavior. "Shhh..Just follow me." Heer simple said, and pulled Prem out of their bedroom.
They quietly walked through the dark hallways of the Juneja mansion, the moonlight the only thing giving them light from the large windows. This moment felt exactly like the time Prem woke Heer in the middle of the night. That time, Heer was in pain and he lead Heer to his study, gifting her the piano.
True enough, Heer stopped in front of Prem's study and opened the door to enter. Inside, Prem saw that Lalit and Gayatri sat on one of the couches as Preet stood to the side.
The room was dim, with the fire crackling in the back...playing off the shadows of the room. When Prem hesitated, Heer pulled Prem further into the room. Heer decided to take matter into her own hands when Prem was sleeping. She asked Lalit, Gayatri, and Preet to be in the study and promised that she would bring Prem to them.
"Prem...please...sit." Gayatri said, and placed a hand on the empty seat next to her. Obeying, Prem walked over and sat next to Gayatri. Heer on the other hand, walked over and stood next to Preet.
Prem didn't say a word, but when he turned to face his mother, he noticed it then, the faded cloth Gayatri was holding.
Gayatri caressed the cloth in her hands and began, "Bohut purani baath hai...Your father and I had been married for a few years, but for some reason, we were not blessed with a child. But we never lost hope...humne bahut mannat maange...sache dil se prathna kiya..."
The room was quiet, expect for Gayatri's voice. It's like she was far away, remembering the past like it was yesterday. "One day, your father and I were returning from a trip, when I saw a church in the distance. Patha nahin kyon...lekin ek dor tha...jo mujhe keech raha tha. Mehne zid parkar li...keh mujhe church ke andar jaana hai. When your father and I went inside the church, I thought...why not pray here too?"
Gayatri and Lalit smiled at the memory. It happened such a long time ago, but the memory still so fresh in their minds. "I heard it then...a baby was crying." Gayatri lovingly caressed the faded cloth, "there you were...probably no older than a day. Wrapped in this cloth and left at the front."
When Gayatri's voice cracked with emotion, Lalit decided it was his turn to speak, "We talked to the people in the church, tried to see if we can find your parents...but no one knew. Then the most amazing thing happened, when Gayatri was holding you, you reached out and grabbed her finger."
"Uss waqt patha chala...ke maa hone ka ehsaas kya hota hai..." Gayatri murmured, remembering that moment. "I decided in that moment...that you were mine." Prem intently listened at the story, his emotions reflected in his eyes as he looked at his parents.
"Uss din se...teri har saans...har aahat ko pehchaanti hoon. Bhale log kahe ke tu mera khoon nahin hai...lekin mein jaanti hoon...humara rishta dil ka rishta hain. Aur kismat dekho humari...jab tu humare zindagi mein aaya...kuch saal baadh...Preet bhi aa gaya. Tere aane se, iss parivar ka soonapan mit gaya. Log kuch bhi kahe...tu humara beta hai...iss ghar ka bada beta.Yeh baat tu kabhi mat bhoolna." Gayatri placed a hand on Prem's head, and he broke. Prem buried his face on his mother's shoulder and held on tight. Knowing that her son has returned to her, Gayatri held onto Prem and let her own tears fall freely.
On the other of the room side, Heer wiped her tears at the scene before her. She turned to Preet and gave him a brilliant smile. Preet's own eyes were glistening with tears.
"This was possible only because of you..." Preet said to Heer, "Prem Bhai ko sahi raasta...apne dikhaya."
Heer smiled when Prem let go of Gayatri and hugged Lalit next. "He did the same for me." Heer replied simply.
Preet looked at Heer, his emotions high. Did either of them know how beautiful their relationship had become? Neither Prem nor Heer hesitated when it came to protecting the other. If one was hurting...the other felt it too. And they didn't stop until their smile returned. Yea...it really was beautiful to watch.
Heer saw Preet staring at her and gave him a questioning look, "Kya soch rahe ho Preet?" Heer asked.
"Mein soch raha hoon...keh aaj aapko bhabi bulane ka mann bahut kar raha hai." Preet replied sweetly. And it was true...she was always his elder sister...but today, she was no longer his Heer didi...she was his Heer bhabi.
Heer looked at Preet, stunned and not sure how to respond to the title. Preet looked at her sweetly...and with new found respect. What surprised Heer was that she didn't feel awkward with the title...it felt nice. She was part of the Juneja family now, and this title only solidified the deal. And you know what?...She was actually ok with that.
"Sirf ek sharth par..." Heer began, keeping a straight face. She then gave Preet a brilliant smile, "Tu aaj se sirf Prem ka chota bhai nahin...mera devar bhi hai."
Preet's face split into a wide grin, "Babhi ka hukum...sar aakhon par." Preet said, and bowed a little for a dramatic effect. Heer giggled and embraced Preet. They were soon joined by Prem, Lalit, and Gayatri. Anyone was able to tell that it was an emotional moment.
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