Gravity [FF] - Abhira - Part 5 on page 16 - Page 8

Originally posted by: Abhiraaa

Thanks for the tag

Loved the long update would love a verrry long update next, maybe them getting more closer 💞💞

Thank you so much! I longer update? Most people want me to post up sooner 😆

Don't worry some things are brewing so we will see what happens next. These are Abhi's memories without giving too much away there is someone else's memories we have to visit too.

Originally posted by: Amru4krish

Brilliant brilliant brilliant update grace....

Its too too good yaar....

Cant wait to read more....

loved it

Thank you Amru 🤗 I'm so happy you are enjoying it. I know this is a bit different and I have them doing things they probably would not do in the actual show 😆

Originally posted by: MinervaMcG

Lovely looong update...loved it..lot of progress in the story..👌👌So till now he has not been able to taste the world famous kachoris yet..no wonder he fought with her on that 😂😂 both getting possessive about each other unconciously..where is akshara...waiting for the next update..

Yes, unconsciously Abhi and Akshara are feeling something. Right now we are viewing Abhi's memories only. Without giving too much away we will be visiting memories of Akshara. Hopefully everything will make sense once everything is completed 😉

Thanks so much for taking time to comment. I truly appreciate it 😃

Amazing update 💖

Jealous Abhi is so Hilarious, loved the update. But even I'm confused where did Akshu go.

Continue soon waiting for next update to see how things progress for both of them. 😊

accidental double post

Silveraliax

Thank you so much for taking the time to actually comment on each section of this chapter! I'm very, very, very grateful. Truly motivates me to write. My comments in Purple

He rubbed his damp hair vigorously with a towel and then collapsed onto the bed stretching his tired muscles. He had just finished taking a shower after a nice workout. His eyes popped open when he heard the sound of the microwave churning. It surprised him as he didn't expect Akshara to be home so early. He fixed his blue t-shirt and made sure to tie the string on his gray sweatpants before opening the bedroom door. As he stepped out he was immediately inundated with the smell of popcorn.

I really like your writing style. I like to read not just their feelings but also what the characters are doing and you paint a picture with your writing. Not an easy task. @Bold in pink why did that make me laugh 😂

Thank you so much for the compliment about my writing style. I tend to think in script format so all the dialogues that I write but then visual their facial expression the way we see them on TV so I try to bring that across. I am no professional writer and there are some here who are very good at describing scenes so much better than me.

"Oh, hi Abhimanyu," Akshara answered, turning with a bright smile. She was wearing a pink t-shirt and gray Nike sweatpants. One of my lectures got canceled so I came back early from campus. What a great way to start off the weekend. Are you going to the clinic today?"

They're wearing the same thing or what? Just different colours

I just wrote they both had gray sweatpants without much thought

“Please don’t make me watch some documentary. Consider this like a psychology film to understand romance and girls better,” she proposed with a glint in her eye as if she was proud of herself for coming up with this reasoning. “Besides, it’s much more fun watching a movie with someone than alone.”

Aw I love this part. So true, watching movie with someone is twice the fun. They're bonding 😊

Movies are more fun watching with a group of people. It is one medium of entertainment that is truly a communal experience.

“Just because I don’t believe in love doesn’t mean I’m not aware of things. I’m not blind, for instance anyone can see you’re pretty.” His face froze briefly realizing what he had just said. “I mean, you're not bad looking for someone your age…you being young,” he stumbled.

Damn he blurted it out I wish you had added I Akshara felt when she heard this

These are Abhi's memories so everything is coming more from his point of view right now. I was going to write in 1st person but then thought it would get confusing later on so I sort stuck to third person view but only revealing his thinking. I don't want to give too much away but we will have Akshara's take - her memories. Hopefully, if I pull this off correctly it will all make sense.

“Someone my age? I’m not some minor,” Akshara huffed. “Sure I’m younger than you but you’re not that much older either. You’re 30 right?”

“32,” he answered.

“I’m 23 about to turn 24. And age is just a number when it comes to love.”

Why does it look like she is trying to justify their age gap

I wanted to address their ages cause if Abhi is suppose to be some successful surgeon/doctor than he cannot be some young 22-28 year old. He has to be a mature man in his 30's. And I honestly think in the show his age is at least 33 - 35. I just think the writers sometimes forgets that he's that age and give him some really cheesy baby lines to say to Akshara. I understand it's his first time in love but doesn't mean he cannot be a little mature. There are other ways for him to act childish. Sorry for the digression my own personal qualms about the show.

He closed the door and walked to the kitchen to take out two dinner plates and then carried the box and plates to the coffee table. The popcorn bowl was gone now but there was a bowl of salsa and a bag of tortilla chips in its place. They had already watched three movies and were finishing up the night with one last one. His pick.

I cant put my finger to it but there is something so warm and fuzzy about this paragraph. I love how they watched 3 movies and you can only do that with a good company. I think I like this because it's so realistic that one can relate. And I have to add that Akshara is already bubbly but if she had not been there then Abhi would have been drinking his apple juice alone. He is that grey cloud and she is the sunshine 🌞 Together they'll make a rainbow 🌈😂

I like this rainbow analogy But for some reason I keep picturing Eeyore when you say gray cloud and Abhi's not exactly like him.

“Thank you,” she answered, taking the plate with both her hands. “Neither have I, but isn’t it great discovering something new? Sometimes it's great watching your favorite films but watching something new is fun too especially if it turns out to be good. You never know unless you try right?”

She is also new in his life

Very true and he's discovering her

He nodded. “’I’m a very practical person. I understand the love of a mother and the love I share with my siblings and cousins but not this other love…I can’t understand it. All the relationships I’ve witnessed are loveless. Mary’s father talked about how he fell in love with Mary’s mother. One day he got very sick and she nursed him back to health. A mutual respect occured and then that respect grew to friendship which then grew to a deep love. None of that happened to these relationships I’ve seen.”

They need to explore this topic on the show too. Not only does it emphasise how Akshara changed his life but it's common in India (especially) for couples to remain in a grey marriage just because they are scared to be the black sheep. I think watching his family be so superficial has affected him greatly. Akshara is showing him new colours other than grey.

Sometimes it happens but sometimes it doesn't and things just become a compromise. For him he hasn't seen this love that he hears about in movies or TV or even reads about in books. Until he sees it and experiences will he understand. Akshara may not know about this love but she's open to experiencing it. I think she's the type of person who can always find something good in everybody. Akshara is just pure love.

He woke up in the middle of the night feeling thirsty and reached over to the steel water bottle that he kept on the nightstand by his bed. He sighed as he found it to be empty and got out of bed to go refill it with water. As he made his way to the kitchen the soft pitter-patter of his feet were being masked by the drizzling sound of rain hitting against the deck and the windows. It had been raining non-stop since they had started their last movie. He gently chuckled to himself recalling how scared Akshara had gotten during the movie that she was hiding behind a cushion and asking for a play by play of actions by him. He took a long drink of water satisfying his parched throat and started to head back to his room when he heard some muffled sounds coming from Akshara’s room. Eventually, the sounds became louder and he realized she was screaming. He quickly ran into the room to find her in bed tossing and turning shouting, “Stay away aliens!”

I got my answer Also rain is so romantic, I love water references in anything.

Rain is going to be important for this couple

He immediately felt bad that she was having such a nightmare. He went to her bedside and tried to wake her up. “Akshara, wake up. Akshara, you’re having a nightmare. It’s okay. Everything is going to be okay.” Just as he saw her eyes flutter open there was a flash of lightning dangerously close to the window and a loud thunderous clap. He felt a hard kick to the groin and he doubled over in pain. “You’re not going to get me!” Akshara hollered. “Stay away.”

How very dramatic

very dramatic indeed

“Oh My God!” She hopped off the bed and sat down on the floor beside him. “Are you okay? Did I hurt you?” His eyes looked at her with trepidation as she was still holding the slipper in her hand. Registering his fears she looked at her right hand and dropped the pink bedroom slipper on the floor giving a nervous smile. “Let me see your cheek,” she ordered as she carefully moved his hand away. She gasped at the large red mark on his face. Without even thinking she placed her hand against it, feeling the warmth of his skin. “I’m so sorry Abhimanyu.”

Poor Abhi bur nice touch at the end @Bold

Had to give him a reward of some kind after getting beat

“I’ll be okay,” he answered and held her wrist with his hand. Their eyes gently locked and he suddenly felt very uncomfortable. He dropped her hand and glanced away pretending to look at something much more interesting in the room and stammered, “I’m go-going to go now. You were um having a nightmare. I’m sorry that I made you watch Aliens.”

Haye garmi

Abhi is having trouble

“It was beautiful,” he cut in.

Who? Akshara or the music?

Music

“I love you too Beta,” Manjari replied and hung up. He then lay down on the bed and gently hummed along to Piya Tose Naina Lage Re. He then took a deep breath, “I’m sorry Ma for keeping this a secret. I think you would like Akshara…she prays every morning just like you, letting out a faint smile, ”I get my daily prasad…” he then rubbed his hand on his forehead, “What am I saying? I hope Akshara didn’t think I asked her out. I just wanted to thank her…that's it.” He let his hand fall against his chest, the palm lay flat against his left side where his heart was and groaned, “What is wrong with me?”

Beautiful so far ♥️♥️♥️ Love the little things Akshara does like the prashad. I feel like Manjri and am happy for Abhi and he isnt even a real person 😭

Abhi always connected Akshara to his mother because he saw the reflection of the values that Manjari taught him in Akshara hence his initial attraction to her.

He then made sure his brown belt around his khaki pants was buckled correctly. He tapped his brown dress shoes on the ground, thankful he decided to wear this specific pair instead of the newer ones that had yet to be broken in. As the cross light sounded for pedestrians to cross, he ran as fast as he could to reach Akshara. He came just in time to hear Akshara say “I’m sorry but no,” while backing away.

@Bold But whyyy. This guy is obessed with his pants

I didn't even realize I made this thing about his pants I was just trying to describe his outfit without some boring one line sentence about what he was wearing.

“I’m her husband.” He answered, trying to end the argument now before he blew his top. He firmly held Akshara’s hand and felt her reciprocate his hold as he stared back at Justin in anger.

I'm her husband - fab! Showstopper of this part. Again I want to know how Akshara felt hearing Abhi protect her by being all Alpha male I love fanfics like these. Makes me feel all giddy

I so wanted to write what Akshara was thinking but stopped myself cause these are Abhi's memories of things he did and said.

“I’m joking,” he laughed, making her let out a relieved sigh. "Akshara, you don't have to pretend at least for this year. If you need me to step in being your husband I will. Call me, text me…I'll come." He caught the surprise look in her eyes and then the soft, "Thank you.'' He gestured with his head towards the ice cream parlor door. “Shall we?” Akshara nodded and began walking. As she crossed in front of him he saw her stumble and begin to fall backwards. It was like some slow motion scene as the cascading ruffles of her knee-length peacock green colored chiffon cocktail dress fluttered in the air. He reached out quickly and caught her in his arms in the typical Indian television style. His arms braced her back and he looked down her face inches from his. He watched as her eyes gently opened in amazement thinking she would have hit the ground only to find him staring back up at her. He was thankful that her dress was not backless, the dress had an a-line scoop neck and the only bit of skin showing was her shoulders, arms, and legs. Even still this was an intimately uncomfortable situation. He found himself searching her mocha eyes; the smokey eye makeup she had on tonight had him in a bit of a trance. A few seconds later or maybe longer he wasn’t quite sure he carefully brought her back up to a standing position and let out a breath, “Beautiful…”

Hayee The fall and catch stunt has been done to death yet i found this pleasing to read. Mocha eyes - don't think I've rread anyone describe eyes this way but it's nice. Makes Akshara sound warm and soothing like coffee and also like doll/anime character strangely enough. You know how they have enormous eyes in anime Anyways, I loved this part too. I am liking how Abhi is slowing falling not just for her personality but also looks

Haha...yes the catch and fall is such a typical stunt done in all these ITV shows and in Bollywood movies. I had to throw one in there for sake of the genre. As for the mocha eyes I wanted to use something other the color brown. I wanted it to be warm and inviting hence Abhi's staring

“Okay, just stay calm,” he replied and carefully reached around her neck, his fingers almost afraid to make contact with her skin. “This is hard. How do they do this during the wedding?”

“Hurry up,” Akshara coaxed.

“Okay, I got it,” he replied with a proud smile on his face.

Wait does this mean they're married now?

in ITV land I guess they would considered them married cause he tied the mangalsutra around her neck at least Mimi would probably think it. At least I didn't have him put sindoor on her.

Abby and dev both need to leave Abhira alone.

Ah, be thankful for them as our leads got closer

Thirty minutes later, he was putting his hoodie back on and walking back towards one of the covered picnic benches and grill areas their group was using. His eyes immediately scanned for Akshara and found her again talking to Dev. “Does this guy ever leave?” he muttered. He grabbed himself a cold bottle of water from one of the coolers and took a long drink before turning around and walking towards them. Akshara smiled as he approached, “Hi Abhimanyu.”

You know what, I read tweets (after today's episode) how people do not want to have a jealousy track but I'm digging this Abhi He badly wants to tell dev to back off his girl but situation is complicated.

I think it's all about how it is handled. Considering some of the things Abhi has done he has a pretty possessive streak. But I found the writers on the show sometimes don't handle the situation quite right with the dialogues so it then becomes a problem of turning Abhi into a Kabir Singh type character and we know how toxic Kabir Singh was. So on the show I actually prefer it not to happen. I prefer the light hearted stuff like him and the kid patient today when Akshara blew the kiss to the kid and then Abhi stole the flying kiss

“I have no problems with your doctorally duties but Abby was falling and holding onto you a lot,” mimicking Abby’s giggle, “Oh sorry Abhi…tee-hehe…Abhi, my leg still hurts…hehe-hee…Abhi, can you help me walk? Abhi, Abhi, Abhi…why does she keep calling you Abhi?”

So even Akshara is a jal kukri

It's bound to happen when you've been getting all of his attention at home.

I mean if Akshara is smart then she will realise he is giving her the right to call him Abhi because he wants to be close friends 😌

Tubelight is all I'm going to say

"First, Abhi, if you want some kachoris all you have to do is ask. I'd make them for you. Secondly, if I cook then you need to wash the dishes. Thirdly, stop leaving your workout towel on the sofa. Every morning you skip rope outside on the back deck. You do some boxing with that punching bag of yours and then you wipe yourself. And then I don't know why you get so distracted while eating your breakfast you leave that sweaty towel on the sofa," making a face, It's disgusting."

They're officially married

Yes, wanted to show some sort of couple like argument

“Abhi, it’s going to be okay. We are going to find her,” placing his hand on his shoulder giving a firm and supportive hold.

“You’re right we will find her,” he replied trying to remain positive despite the fear swirling inside of him.

This reminds me of mehndi scene where Abhi tells Akshara to get lost and she meets with an accident. That track was my personality fav because that's what made abhi realise he loved her and only her.

Fear can be the greatest weapon. We will see how this transforms their relationship from here.

Originally posted by: aishapl013

Amazing update 💖

Jealous Abhi is so Hilarious, loved the update. But even I'm confused where did Akshu go.

Continue soon waiting for next update to see how things progress for both of them. 😊

Thank you so much! Truly happy you are enjoying this SS.

Yes this jealous Abhi is funny. We will see where Akshara went soon.

thanks for the tag!

I have not been active on the forum for weeks now, will try and read soon ❤️

It's been months.. pls update

A lot has changed in 5 months, not sure if anyone is even interesting in reading anything. Many apologizes for such a very late update. I've been super busy with work and only wrote when I had time here and there. Anyways, here is part 3.

Gravity Part 3

"Akshara! Akshara, if you can hear me please answer me!" He called out as he made his way through the woods. He was thankful that he had a pair of sneakers in the car and had changed into them before heading back out on his second walk through. He didn't know how long he had been walking. All he knew was daylight was going as the sun had set and no one had yet to see Akshara. He had decided to break away from the trail and search further into the forest. He assured David that he would not get lost and promised to periodically text him. "Akshara!" He called out into the slowly fading light. He had a habit of waiting a few minutes before walking forward in case she answered back. He turned the flashlight on his cell phone on and continued calling out, "Please answer me, Akshara!”

He looked down at his mobile and shot off a text to David letting him know his coordinates and sent him a picture of the dense bushes he was about to push his way through. When he emerged from the other side he felt a piercing pain against his leg. He looked down and saw where the skin had broken; a thin line from the side of his left calf to the front of his shin. Despite the stinging sensation he was feeling, the most important thing to him at that moment was finding Akshara. His anxiety was sky high and he was beside himself wondering where she had disappeared to. "Please Mahadev please let Akshara be safe. Please help me find her. This fear…only you have known what I have been through. Please Mahadev help me find her." He prayed out loud. He took a deep breath and continued on his journey through the woods. It was probably another fifteen minutes before he was surrounded by darkness. "Akshara!"

"Hello? Someone there?!" His eyes lit with happiness yet still cautious that perhaps his ears had heard wrong. "Akshara?" He called out again trying to locate the direction of where the voice was coming from."Akshara, It’s Abhi. It's me, Abhimanyu!" His eyes widened when he heard the reply.

"Abhimanyu? It's me Akshara."

"Where are you?"

"I'm here!"

They continued calling back and forth to each other making sure they were heading in the right direction. When he saw her petite form come into view he ran towards her as relief washed over him, “Akshara!” gathering her up into a hug.

“Abhimanyu,” she cried her mouth pressed against his shoulder as she reciprocated the hug. “Are you okay?” He pulled back to inspect her and that is when he noticed her right leg was bent and she was standing on one leg. “What happened?”

“I think I sprained my ankle,” Akshara answered.

“Of course you would, who decides to go hiking wearing sandals? And why are you so far away from the path? If you start wandering around the woods you are bound to get lost. And no matter how many times I called your phone there was no response. The battery is dead isn’t it? Did you even think of charging your phone since you decided to go on some crazy hike just in case you got lost so people can reach you?”

“I didn’t mean to get lost. I didn’t know that I didn’t have enough battery on the phone. And why are you yelling at me like this?” She replied almost on the verge of tears.

His eyes softened realizing she had been right about his tone. “I was really worried about you,” explaining himself, “The sun was setting and no one had seen you in hours. How else am I suppose to respond? How can I not care about what happens to you?”

Her eyes widened at his words and then she looked downward saying with some embarrassment, “I saw a bunny and I started following it and then I got lost…and I slipped and sprained my ankle.”

"A bunny?" He repeated with amazement. "Of all the things to follow. I guess that makes sense for you. So did you find it?" She shook her head timidly. He sighed, “I’m just glad I’ve found you. Besides your ankle, you’re okay," looking worriedly into her eyes, "You are okay?”

“Yes.”

He looked around him and frowned, “It’s pretty dark now. Here hold this.” Handing her his phone. He then turned around and bent down. “Get on. You’re in no condition to walk and we are quite far from the trail.” He sat there for a few seconds and felt her hesitation, “Akshara, get on my back. It will be easier this way. Please.”

“But..Abhi-manyu…”

“Akshara, I don’t want to argue. Get on. We shouldn’t be out here any longer than necessary.” He felt her body press against his back and her hands tentatively gripping his shoulders. “Put your arms around my neck. Tuck your legs closer to me. I need to pick you up.” He felt her adjust herself, clinging closer to him. He stood up and held her thighs with his hands. "You okay?” he asked as he heard her gasp in his ear.

“I’m…I’m not heavy am I?”

He chucked to himself at that question, “No, not at all. How is your ankle?”

“It’s okay as long as I don’t touch…ehh..” She took a sharp breath inward and said, “Touch it.” He had felt her attempt to flex her right foot and frowned at her words. “We’ll just be careful. I want to properly inspect it once we get back. Can you hold the phone up so I can see where we are going?” As she raised the phone upward a patch of light illuminated their dark surroundings.

“Abhimanyu…” He felt his heartbeat rise at her soft voice. It was so intimately close to his ear he was suddenly feeling restless. “Yes,” he answered.

“Thank you.”

“What for? I haven’t done anything.”

“You’re carrying me. You came out to find me even after…”

“I’m sorry,” he simply replied. “I’ll wash the dishes. I’ll do better at remembering not to leave my workout towel on the sofa.”

“I’m sorry too. I’ll make a special batch of kachoris just for you. No one else can have them. I will try to stop Varsha Aunty’s tea time visits if I can.”

“My own kachoris? Thank you,” he replied happily causing her to smile. “I know we can’t do much about Varsha Aunty. She just shows up sometimes at the apartment because she is in the neighborhood. I don’t understand how she can be in the neighborhood so many times a week.”

“Neither can I,” Akshara agreed.

“One thing?”

“Yes?”

“Dev still cannot come to the house,” he firmly stated.

“Abhimanyu…” she sighed in disappointment that they were back to this particular argument when it seemed like they had patched up.

“And neither can Abby,” he added. “And one more thing. We’re close enough now. You can call me Abhi.”

***************************************************************

He stretched his arms up above him and took a deep breath feeling the tension in his back disappearing. He had just finished taking a shower after his mid morning workout and was relaxing his muscles with some light stretching in his room. He was wearing a black t-shirt and dark blue cargo shorts. He turned his head when he heard a sound of something falling onto the wooden floors of the living room and then Akshara's stressed voice. He quickly ran out of his room to see what had happened. "Akshara!" Her hands were on the ground bracing herself while her legs were still on the couch. On the floor was a pillow, ice pack, and the TV remote. "What are you doing?" He placed his hands on her arms and slowly lifted her back onto the couch.

"I was trying to reach the remote," she replied giving a sheepish grin. "I thought I could reach the coffee table but it was a little further than I thought."

"You could have asked me. What if you hurt yourself even more?" He replied as he handed her the remote.

"I didn't want to bother you. You've already done so much."

"It's not a bother. You are never a bother. We aren’t strangers anymore. I'll always come if you call." He then gave a smile at her wonderstruck face. He walked to her feet and ordered, "Leg up." Placing the pillow under her bandaged right ankle, "You have to keep the leg elevated and iced for the swelling to go down. How long have you iced it?"

"Not that long. I was just settling in."

He adjusted the ice pack on her foot and then asked, "You want your blanket?"

"Yes please," she answered. He went to the armchair and took a soft dark blue throw and carefully covered her with it. "Thank you." He grinned and then carefully pushed the coffee table closer to the couch before making his way towards the kitchen. "So what should we have for lunch?"

"Not khichdi, anything but khichdi. That's all he's been feeding me for the past two days…" she grumbled under her breath.

"What did you say?"

"Um nothing. Anything is fine with me."

He smirked to himself knowing full well what she had said and decided to tease, "Hmmm, I could make khichdi," looking across the kitchen sink into the living room.

"Oh khichdi…"

He gently chuckled at the tone in her voice and then added, "Maybe we should order some Indian."

"Chicken tikka masala, spice level hot, butter naan," she eagerly replied.

"Ooookay." He answered, trying to suppress his laughter. "No appetizers? Onion bhaji?"

"Um, well…maybe. Yes. No, not this time."

"You sure about that?" He inquired as he scrolled through his phone looking for the number of the local Indian restaurant they sometimes ate at. He put his phone to his ear and waited for his call to get picked up. "Hi Amit. How are you doing? I'm doing well. Yes, she's doing better. She finally has some crutches. Hopefully, if she continues to rest properly maybe another week before she starts walking on her own again. Okay we will get an order of onion bhaji, chicken tikka masala, palak paneer, two butter naans, two orders of gulab jamun. A new dish? Oh…no she hates cauliflower…"

"Eww, no Abhi…"

"See…I don't know if you can hear it but I am already getting yelled at."

"I am not yelling," Akshara huffed. "Just no cauliflower!"

"All right. Oh? Yes, of course. Please put her on." He smiled and continued in a soft voice, "How are you? I hear someone is going to have a birthday soon. How old will you be? Wow, 6 years old! You are inviting me to your birthday party? I feel so honored. Thank you Aria. You want to speak to Akshara Aunty?" He walked over to the couch where Akshara was eagerly waiting for him to hand over his phone so she could talk to the restaurant owner's little daughter.

"Hello sweetie! So you are having a birthday party next Saturday and you are inviting me? Yes, of course I will come. No, I am getting better. You don't have to worry. No, Abhi Uncle doesn't carry me around. That would be very tiring for him. I have crutches that I use to help me walk." He watched her conversing on the phone not realizing he was smiling just as widely as Akshara was while talking to little Aria. There was just something about the scene in front of him that was filling him with joy. He turned and walked away to get the first aid kit. When he had returned Akshara was off the phone. “I’m sorry for taking over your phone.”

“It’s fine,” he replied as he sat down in the armchair and proceeded to take out two band-aid strips and the antibiotic ointment. “Little Aria is very talkative.”

“Yes, she is. So is her older brother.”

“Oh, Arjun was there today? He looked down at his left calf. Majority of the cut he had received while walking through the thicket was nearly healed. There was only one area that the thorn had penetrated deeper than originally thought. He carefully dabbed the antibiotic ointment onto the band-aid and placed it down firmly on the side of his calf muscle. “I’m really sorry Abhi.” He looked up in confusion. “Why?”

“Because of me you got hurt.” He gave a half grin and shook his head. “I’m fine. Don’t worry about it. I’m just glad I found you and you were okay.” He then placed his second band-aid next to the first one. “Now that I’ve taken care of this. I’ll go pick up the food.” He got up and threw the plastic band-aid packaging away. “You need anything before I leave? You have your water?” She held up her water bottle to show him and nodded.

“I have my blanket, ice pack, TV remote. I have everything.”

“Okay, I’ll be back soon. Don’t get into any trouble while I’m gone.”

Akshara furrowed her eyebrows at his tease, “I’ll be fine. Just bring the food back. I’m starting to get hungry. If you are not careful I’ll eat your naan.”

“We’ll see about that. I may bring back some cauliflower and eat it in front of you and while I’m talking to you I’ll make sure to blow air into your face,” he smirked as he minimic the behavior.

“Ehh…ewww no, no, no cauliflower, please!” she squealed, waving her hand in front of her nose. “It smells so bad.”

“Okay,” he chuckled and opened the front door.

“Hi Abhimanyu!” Greeted a girl smartly dressed with a bob; she adjusted her red rimmed glasses and moved her head to the side and continued, “Akshu!”

“Maya!” she shouted back chirpily. He moved to the side to let Maya walk inside. “You got a haircut?!”

“I did! How do you like it?” Maya asked, running her fingers through her silky black hair displaying it to Akshara.

“Wait, I thought you had an important meeting with a client today?” he asked.

“I did. It got cut short due to an emergency but she liked the pieces I showed her so we are rescheduling the meeting for this upcoming Thursday. I’ve been meaning to get a haircut so I swung by the hair salon and was lucky enough to get a spot and then I decided to come here to see if you needed my help.”

Akshara motioned with her eyes at him which he acknowledged with a nod, “I was about to get us lunch.”

“Oh I see,” Maya said with wide eyes. “I didn’t mean to interrupt.”

“Maya…” Akshara nervously warned.

“I um, I can order something from Uber Eats,” Maya said, taking out her phone.

“It’s fine. I’ll call the restaurant and add to the order. What would you like?”

“Really?” Maya asked in surprise.

“Within reason,” he answered. After Akshara had gotten hurt he realized after the first day there were certain things that she would need help with that he couldn’t do for her. Even though he was a professional doctor he didn’t want to make her feel uncomfortable and as they were roommates he also did not want to do anything inappropriate so he told her she could tell one close and trusted friend about the situation and have her help her until her ankle got better. Maya was the fashion friend who had been unknowingly helping them from the start of this marriage charade. She seemed nice but for as skinny as she was she could eat a lot. He found that out the first day he met her. Hearing Akshara’s laughter and the giggles when the two talked made him smile and he was glad she had a friend with her. “We ordered onion bhaji, chicken tikka masala, palak paneer, butter naan, gulab jamun.”

“Malai kofta and butter naan please. And thank you!” Maya stated.

“Okay got it. I’ll order extra onion bhaji so we can all share and gulab jamun too,” he replied and then waved his goodbye. He smiled to himself when he heard loud giggles as he closed the front door of the apartment.

***************************************************************

He sat in the chair nursing a bruised cheek with an ice pack. His eyes watching rather crossly at his friend sitting across the desk from him. David sighed as he flipped through some papers on the desk and then looked up. “Oh, you can’t really be taking his side.” He barked despite the pain radiating from his left cheek. “David.”

“Look Abhi, I'm talking purely on practical terms and as your boss. So please let me say what I have to say. We don’t condone violence in the workplace. Though I understand he was being disruptive, there were other ways to handle the situation other than getting into a physical altercation with the man. There are procedures and protocols that we have to follow. No one is above them. I’m sorry you are on leave, one week.”

“What?” he replied incredulously. “David, that man was being abusive towards his wife, the staff, and me. I told him to stand outside and he wouldn’t listen. I had no choice. So I…”

“So you made him listen with your fist? You’re lucky he’s not going to try and lawyer up or put in a police report for aggravated assault, Abhi.” David answered.

‘You know I have never tolerated abuse.”

“I know that.” David took a breath and continued, “This is me, your friend talking now. I know you tried to do the right thing but I have to follow policy. This isn’t like that time in college when you caught that professor making advances to that girl who was alone in the classroom.”

“I never laid a finger on him.”

“You broke a chair to make your point. Your father put in a large donation to the school in the hopes you wouldn’t get disciplined.” His jaw clenched at the mention of his father and stared darkly at David. “This isn’t college and there is no large donation that can be made to make this go away nor is this your family hospital where you can do as you please because you have your family to back you up. You don’t have that privilege here.”

“Privilege?” He repeated half in bewilderment and disgust that his old college classmate was even accusing him of such behavior. “Since when have I ever acted like some privileged individual? If all I wanted to do was make money I would have chosen another profession. I came into medicine because I wanted to help people. I left my family hospital to do charity work with you David. Just because my family owns a hospital doesn’t mean I’m any more special than you or anyone else on staff. I could care less if I’m working in a tent or in some state of the art facility.”

“You don’t understand your privilege because you’ve never had to be challenged by it,” David replied heatedly. “Some of us aren’t that lucky to be born with a silver spoon in their mouth. A father who can put money down anytime he wants to make things go away…” There was a loud scattering sound as the ice pack fell to the ground and the screeching of a desk shifting noisily across the floor. His hands were now on David's collar and he was breathing heavily trying to control his anger. “What did you say?”

David didn’t back down as he looked him in the eyes, “ You have a family name that means something in the medical community back in your home country, Abhi…some of us have to work from the ground up to get where we are today. We don’t get second chances.”

“I hate that man and you know it. I don’t like taking any favors from him,” he seethed.

There was a sudden knock on the door cutting the tension in the room as the posture of both men eased. He let go of David’s collar and replied in an steely voice, “One week leave,” before opening the office door. As he walked out he met Saloni; her eyes expressing grave concern. He simply shook his head telling his friend he was in no mood to talk.

***************************************************************

He stood near the edge of the lake and swung his arm out to the side before pulling it forward giving a slight flick of his wrist as his fingers let go of a small stone. He watched as it skipped across the surface of the water a few hops before dropping into the unknown depth below. The ring marks spread for a few seconds before smoothing out. He did not know how long he had been out at the park. The first thing he did after leaving work was head home and change into his workout clothes. Instead of heading to the gym he decided to go running at the park in the fresh air to try and clear his mind. He looked up across the sky and spied a few gray clouds in the distance. “Looks like rain may be coming.” He turned, surprised by the voice behind him. It was Akshara. He hadn’t seen her all day. He had left work before her shift had started. Her hair was tied up in a half ponytail and she was wearing a loose pink quarter sleeve shirt with jeans. “I’m sorry for interrupting you,” she replied softly. “I got worried when you didn’t come home. You’re normally home by 7:00pm and when you are running late you always call.”

He checked the Apple watch on his wrist and saw he had several missed calls. They were a mixture of Akshara’s, Saloni’s, and David’s. He had silenced his phone before going on his run. He closed his eyes sighing a little before turning back towards her. “I’m sorry.”

She gave an understanding smile and continued, “Skipping rocks?” She picked up a small pebble and flicked it across the water. It hopped twice before sinking into the water with a plop. "Never been able to get past two skips. Kairav bhaiya is really good at it. He says it's all in the wrists." She looked over when she saw an impressive row of water puddles appear on the surface of the lake. "Wow, just like bhaiya."

He was taken aback at the way she flashed her smile at him. He remained quiet and picked up another smooth stone from the ground and flung it out. Akshara counted excitedly, "1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7! That's a great number." She bent back down and picked up another stone to try again. "You know I sometimes read self help books? A really good one does wonders in inspiring you to give your best but also helps you tackle times when you aren't really feeling so great about yourself. There was this recent saying…a phrase I came across..shared joy is double joy, shared sorrow is half sorrow." She turned towards him and continued, "I heard about what happened at work. Well, I sort of saw the last part. You seemed upset walking out of Dr. Smith's office."

"Upset is one way to put it" he replied curtly. His eyes softened and he added, "That wasn't towards you. Sorry."

Akshara shook her head reassuring him she was not affected by his tone. "I didn’t mean to pry. Sometimes talking about it makes you feel better. You don’t have to share with me if you don’t feel like it, it can be with anyone."

"He blamed his wife for her condition," he quietly replied. "As if she chose to get sick. What kind of person says those types of things? And to his wife? He demanded that we hurry up with her appointment because he had somewhere else to go. I told him to stand outside. He wouldn't budge despite multiple warnings and I just grabbed his shoulders and started to push him out. He took a swing at me and I hit him back. I have no regrets about it. I would do it again. He deserved far more than one punch to the face."

"I can understand your anger. It is a normal emotion. We all get angry, Abhi," Akshara reasoned.

He shook his head, "When it comes to my life and my profession I am practical…logical…but this type of emotion shouldn't be. One thing I cannot stand is people who are disrespectful. That man today reminded me a lot about my father. He acts like only his time and needs are a priority. How can someone be so selfish? I never understood it. And in front of everyone else he’s cordial, makes time for them…becomes this downright f-ing agreeable kind of guy, but at home he’s a total jerk to my mother. She’s had to bear the brunt of his anger and disagreeable attitude…no time for her and no time for his family. It is all about PR and how to make this run better or that better and investor meetings. It’s never been about us.” He let out a frustrated sigh when he felt a soft hand hold his tightly balled fist. He glanced to the side, seeing Akshara’s concerned eyes. There was just something about the emotion coming from her eyes that was affecting him. Without a single word he felt a strange feeling of calmness wash over him. He looked down at his hand as he slowly unraveled it, seeing the fingernail marks imprinted against the red palm of his hand. He watched as her slender fingers gently rubbed against the marks before clasping his hand into a hold as if telling him she was there with him. His eyes lifted upward meeting her simple yet comforting smile. He just stared in wonder. The moment was soon interrupted by a sudden downpour of rain. He quickly jumped up and turned to find shelter. He looked back to see Akshara standing with her back towards him in the rain. “Akshara!” he shouted waving his right hand trying to get her attention while his left hand was held over his head in an useless attempt to keep his head dry. She turned with a bright smile. “What are you doing you’re going to get drenched?”

“Aren’t we already?” she replied back and waved her hand to welcome him to come join her. She then looked up at the dark sky and started to sing, “Naa re naa re…naa re naa re [Oh no…oh no] Nan nan naa re naa re…naa re naa re [Oh no…oh no] Nan naa re, nan naa re, nan naa re [Oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no] Barso re megha megha [O clouds please rain] Barso re megha megha [O clouds please rain] Barso re megha barso [O clouds please rain]”

He felt himself being pulled towards her as her melodious voice filled his ears and his eyes took in the sight of her dancing about in the rain without a care in the world. Her silver earrings jingled to the beat of the rain fall while her eyes reflected an unknown mischievous joy.

“Barso re megha megha [O clouds please rain] Barso re megha megha [O clouds please rain] Barso re megha barso [O clouds please rain]”

He walked closer and stood still as she pranced around him encouraging him to join in on the fun. He gave a small smile and lifted his arms up finally giving in and began to dance alongside her.

"Meetha hai, kosa hai [It's sweet and it's warm] Baarish ka bosa hai [It's like a kiss from the rain]

Kosa hai, kosa hai [It's warm, it's warm] Baarishon ka bosa hai [It's like a kiss from the rain]"

As they played around in the rain the only thing on his mind was how free spirited Akshara was and how beautiful her laughter sounded in his ears. It was mesmerizing and uplifting.

***************************************************************

"One, two, three…one, two, three…ahhh," he winced as his foot got stepped on again for probably the hundredth time.

"I’m sorry. I’m so, so, sorry,” Akshara apologized.

“It’s fine. Let’s take a break,” he advised and sat down on one of the deck chairs.

“How did you get so good at waltzing?”

“I’ve had to attend my fair share of parties and functions that required me to learn it,” he replied. “PR parties despite the fact the host hates dancing and dislikes music. My mother on the other hand is the complete opposite. She loves music. I take after her in that aspect I guess,” he said.

“Oh really?”

“Yes, Piya Tose Naina Lage Re is her favorite song,” he replied. His eyes widened when Akshara suddenly broke out singing. “Piya tose naina lage re [My gaze is fixed with yours, my beloved] Piya tose naina lage re, naina lage re [My gaze is fixed with yours, my beloved] Jaane kya ho ab aage re, naina lage re [Who knows what will happen moving forward] Piya tose naina lage re [My gaze is fixed with yours, my beloved]..”

He watched intently at the way she was getting absorbed into the song. Her voice hung sweetly in the air and he was simply enchanted by it. He lips pursed into a smile as he watched her close her eyes letting the music take over.

“Ho jag ne utaare [The universe has brought them down] Ho dharti pe taare [The stars on the earth] Par mann mera murjhaye haaye [But still my heart is not happy] Ho un bin aali [It has come without him] Ho aisi Diwali [The festival of Diwali] Milne ko jiya uklaye [My heart is restless to meet him] Aa sajan payal pukare [My anklets are calling for my beloved]

Jhanak jhan jhan, jhanak jhan jhan…”

The intoxication of the moment was so new yet exhilarating for him. He could hear his heart beating in his ears as his eyes scanned the expression of her closed eyelids, the way her eyebrows crinkled with each note, and her perfectly pink lips quivering the sentiments of the song. She illuminated in front of him as the sun was slowly setting in the background. It was almost too picture perfect.

“Piya tose [My beloved] Piya tose naina lage re, naina lage re [My gaze is fixed with yours, my beloved] Jaane kya ho ab aage re, naina lage re [Who knows what will happen moving forward]

Piya tose naina lage re [My gaze is fixed with yours, my beloved]...”

When Akshara opened her eyes again and met his gaze he wanted to look away but he couldn't. He couldn’t comprehend why but all he wanted was for this moment to last. Eventually Akshara looked shyly down. "It was beautiful like always," he simply stated.

"Th-thank you," she replied and got up from her chair. He stood up and quickly intercepted her taking her hand into his making her look up at him slightly startled. He pulled her closer with his hand pushing her lower back towards him and he began to dance with her around the wooden patio deck. Their eyes gently locked as their feet moved in rhythm without hesitation. They were perfectly in sync. He lifted his right hand up and twirled her around their fingers softly gripping and bridging, never leaving room to separate from each other. He could feel her take in a breath as their bodies connected again and they moved along the floor. He carefully dipped her downward, his eyes refusing to leave her eyes as he slowly pulled her up towards him causing the limited space they already shared to disappear between them. He could feel her warm breath fan over his face triggering his already racing heart to beat even more wildly in his ears. He wondered if she could hear the sound too. He could see her eyes searching his in an unspoken language looking for the answers of this moment. Were they thinking the same thing or was all of this someone’s imagination? He tilted his head slightly, parting his lips when Akshara’s cell phone rang, breaking the moment. “My phone,” she nervously uttered, stating the obvious. It was like the mist in his mind had suddenly cleared and he was now fully aware of his surroundings. He immediately let her go.

“See, you dance well. You’ll do fine at the party,” he answered. A reminder alarm on his Apple watch went off causing him to look at his wrist in surprise.

“You have dinner plans with Solani and David tonight,” Akshara said, explaining his reminder to him.

“Um, right…I do, don’t I? I should go get ready,” he answered pointing with his thumb towards his room, “You should answer your phone.” Akshara nodded her head while he quickly turned around and walked away.

***************************************************************

He took a few careful sips of his coffee washing down the taste of the rich but delicious butter cake he had ordered as his dessert. He glanced upward with a slight smile seeing how David and Saloni were sharing a large slice of cheesecake. David had taken a big helping on his fork that included some whipped cream and half of a strawberry. Needless to say some of the whipped cream landed on the side of his mouth. Saloni motioned with her hand but David somehow managed to spread it further on his face causing her to giggle and use her fingers to clean his mouth. Then she realized they were not alone. David coughed shyly and excused himself from the table stating he was going to the washroom to clean himself up. Abhimanyu looked back down at his cake and took another bite.

“Sorry,” Saloni spoke.

“Why?” he replied. “I’m the third wheel. I probably should have left earlier.”

“Abhi,” she gasped. “You are not a third wheel. We love hanging out with you. You are my friend too, you know.”

He chuckled, “I was joking. I know couples…they do couple things sometimes.” He took another sip of his coffee and curiously asked, “When did you and David know that you two were going to work out?” He watched as Saloni raised her eyebrows making him instantly uncomfortable and regretting why he even opened his mouth to ask such a question. He didn’t even know where the question came from. “What? I didn’t mean…” he quickly replied as he sat up straight.

“To be honest, I didn’t,” Saloni answered. “We were just dating and it just happened naturally. I guess if I had to pinpoint…we were just having coffee together…I had just finished my shift at the hospital and David came two hours early before the start of his shift to come meet me. Back then we were so busy with residency that it was hard to make time for ourselves. I’m not sure how we managed to survive but we did. And while we were drinking so-so coffee and eating bad diner donuts I realized I didn’t want to experience this with anyone else. So I guess that is the moment I knew. Not the most romantic of stories. But not all are big grand gestures or ah-hah moments like those in movies.” She took a drink of water and gave a warm smile. “Are you thinking about settling down?”

He rubbed the back of his neck. “No. I was just curious.”

“Curious? About love? Marriage?”

“I don’t really have any feelings about love. My mother’s been pushing for me to get married. You know the typical Indian mother's way of thinking…now that I have my career in order it's time to find someone.”

Saloni gave an understanding look. “Let me guess you’ve been signed up on Shaddi.com? Or your profile pic has been passed around the inner circles of the match maker aunties?”

He sighed, “Probably both,” hanging his head slightly low. “I’m not ready and I don’t think I will ever be. I have my own personal baggage to deal with. I don't need to bring someone into it.”

“Trust me it’s not about being ready. Sometimes things just happen when you least expect it. Just be open to the possibility when you find someone you connect with,” Saloni reassured. He gave a faint nod in return. "So, should I start looking through my cousins?"

“Wh-what?!” he stuttered.

Saloni broke out into laughter at the response. “Abhi, I’m pulling your leg."

“What juicy gossip have I been missing?” David inquired as he sat back down at the table.

“Nothing…nothing of your concern,” Abhi quickly answered.

“Oh then this one hundred percent of my concern,” David joked.

“Abhi here is thinking about marriage,” Saloni announced. He just shook his head vigorously in denial.

“Oh, who is the lucky girl then?”

"That we haven't worked out yet."

"Hmm, I would say that is a problem,” David mused. “Marriages take two. Unless you have that thing…where you have to marry a tree or is it a donkey?"

“That is called manglik dosh and I don’t have that,” he explained. He then quickly raised his arm trying to wave the waiter down, “Watier! Check, please!”

“I took care of it,” David informed, smiling with satisfaction. “When I went to the washroom.”

He let out a half chuckle. “You beat me to it this time. I’ll get it next time.”

“Of course, when you’re married,” David joked causing everyone to laugh.

***************************************************************

The three friends made their way to the front of the restaurant when they heard a loud screeching sound of tires skidding against the asphalt trying to prevent itself from a collision. A few seconds later they heard a loud crash. They quickly ran out to the door to see what had happened. Being doctors they couldn’t help but be alert to someone potentially needing medical assistance. They were greeted with another sound of steel colliding against steel and a loud pop. David and him immediately ran out into the parking lot and headed towards the street in front of the restaurant. It was a 4 car pile up. There was billowing smoke rising from one of the cars and the smell of burnt rubber hung heavy in the air.

“Abhi! We need to get them out now. There is a gas leak!” David warned as he inspected the first collision spot.

“I’ll call the fire department,” Saloni informed.

He nodded and quickly ran to the second set of cars to check on the drivers. As a young couple tumbled out of a red Toyota Rav4, he inquired, “Are you two okay?”

“I think we are fine. Just a little shook up but I’m not hurting anywhere,” the young man replied. “Sara?!”

“I’m fine as well.”

“Good, my name is Abhimanyu. I’m a doctor. There is a gas leak coming from one of the cars behind you. Please move to the side of the road.”

“Oh God!” Sara gasped.

“Thanks Abhimanyu. My name is Henry. We should call 911 or the fire department then?”

“One of my friends she’s already called. She and her husband are checking on the cars at the front. They are both doctors.” They exchanged nods then he moved towards the vehicle in the back. He could see a Indian man in his 50’s slumped over on the steering wheel. He tried to open the door but it was locked. “Sir! Uncle! Can you hear me? I can’t get in. Are you able to open the car door? Hello? Can you hear me?” He saw small movement as the man used his left hand to shakily try and push the button to unlock the car door but failed. He knew he had to get the man out for his safety. He looked around his surroundings and spied part of a broken back bumper that had fallen. He carefully picked the piece up and used it to ram it against the window of the passenger side door. Eventually he heard the crack of glass and he dropped the metal frame to the ground ignoring the burning feeling of his hands. He then used his elbow to break through the rest of the window and reached inside, hitting the unlock button. “Sir? You still with me, Sir?” He ran around to the driver side door and quickly opened it and checked the man’s pulse. It was slow and his breathing, he noticed, was very shallow. “Sir? Can you hear me?” he asked as he pushed the seat back and carefully laid him down.

“Med-med-medicne,” the man gasped.

“Where in your pocket?” He asked as he checked the man’s suit jacket. He pulled out a small bottle to read the contents. His eyes widened as he knew exactly what was happening. He gave him the small pill and unhooked his seat belt, then picked him up from the car and carried him to the side of the road. He saw Saloni coming to greet him with concern in her eyes. “He’s having a heart attack. We need to get him to the hospital quickly.”

“There were a few people in the first two cars that were pretty banged up. One’s got a potential broken leg. And another one may have broken ribs.”

“How long before the ambulance arrives?”

“I don’t know,” Saloni replied.

“We don’t have time. Didn’t we pass by a hospital near here?”

“Yes, City General…”

“I’m going, I’ll meet you there,” he replied. My car is parked over on the other side there outside of the accident area. Saloni nodded and ran back towards the crowd. He took a deep breath and looked down at the man in his arms, “Don’t worry sir we are going to get you to a hospital. My name is Dr. Abhimanyu Birla. I’m a cardiac surgeon. You’re going to be fine Sir.”

“Mal-mal…ho-tra.”

“Malhotra? Mr. Malhotra, you’re going to be fine.”

***************************************************************

It had only been 10 minutes into his drive when he heard the sound of police sirens passing on the opposite roadway. He knew they were heading towards the scene of the accident. He was driving as fast as he could to get to the hospital emergency room. He was going over the speed limit and cutting people off at every turn. He let out a frustrated grunt as he saw the flickering of blue and red lights in his rear view mirror. “I don’t have time for this.” He managed to get his mobile phone out of his pocket and commanded, “Siri, call 911.”

“911 what is your emergency?”

“Hello, my name is Dr. Abhimanyu Birla. I have a critical patient who is having a heart attack and I am making my way to City General Hospital. Can you tell the officer behind me that I am not trying to avoid him but I should be reaching the hospital in less than 10 minutes. He can issue me a ticket then.”

“Sure Dr. Birla. What car are you driving?”

“I’m in a white Lexus NX license plate DB34K8. I just crossed Orange Avenue.”

“I’ll deliver the message. Stay on line.” He watched as the police car continued to follow behind him but then saw a second vehicle appeared in front of him entering into his lane. “Dr. Birla, we have a police escort taking you to City General Hospital. Please proceed with caution.”

“Thank you!” He smiled with relief. Five minutes later he pulled into the emergency drop off at City Hospital where staff and gurney were waiting for him. “Patient’s name is Mr. Malhotra. He’s having a heart attack,” he informed as the staff members shifted his passenger onto the gurney. “Thanks, we will take it from here Dr. Birla.” He nodded and then turned to see the police officers waiting for him.

***************************************************************

He stared out across the large window in the waiting room quietly sipping his coffee. He turned his head when he heard the sound of people entering the room. It was David and Saloni.

“Hey,” he nodded. “I wanted to make sure Mr. Malhotra made it through his surgery. How is everyone else?”

“The restaurant allowed us to take one of their fire extinguishers and use it on the gasoline leak to make sure it didn’t ignite. The fire trucks and ambulance came about 15 minutes after you left. We got everyone who needed medical attention help,” David informed.

“That’s good.”

“What happened to your hand?” Saloni inquired.

“Oh,” he replied, lifting his left hand up, which was bandaged. “Just a cut in the palm of my hand. I picked up part of a back bumper and used it to break into the window to get Mr. Malhotra out of his car. He couldn’t unlock the door. It’s nothing too serious.”

“Dr. Birla,” a voice interrupted, causing the three to turn to see a man in blue scrubs walk into the waiting room. “Mr. Malhotra came out of surgery. He’s going to be fine. We have contacted the family and they should be on their way. He’s lucky you got him here at the time you did.”

“I’m glad he’s going to be all right,” placing his cup of coffee on the side table he pulled out a business card from his wallet. “Could you give that to Mr. Malhotra when he wakes up?”

“Of course,” the surgeon replied and then quietly read the card. “Birla, from Birla Hospital. Are you related to Dr. Harshvardhan Birla?”

“Yes, he is,” a tall lean man wearing a crisp tan suit replied as he walked into the waiting room. His stature and presence gave off an aura of authority and confidence. “He’s my son.”

***************************************************************

The night air was still and silent as he walked along the courtyard. He was feeling unbearably warm despite already having unbutton the top two buttons of his dress shirt. Maybe it had more to do with the company in his attendance. “From the stories I’ve heard. You did great work today,” Hashvardhan Birla praised. “Mr. Malhotra and family are very grateful. This is the type of work you were meant to do. Imagine if you had actually been their surgeon. That is what you should be doing. Your work belongs at the hospital…in the surgery room. Not wasting your time–”

“I am not wasting my time,” he curtly replied. He knew where this conversation was going as it was the same one he had when he had left India. “My work is always with me be it in a hospital or in a charitable clinic. I don’t distinguish between either. Doctors are not graded on which fancy hospital they work at. Our primary concern is our patients. You treat Birla Hospital like some fortune 500 company. It’s a place of medicine, not a business!”

“It’s not quite yet like a fortune 500 company”, Harshvardhan mused out loud. “What I was going to say was Here. You never let me finish and you always jump to your conclusions about what you think I am talking about. And yes I do run the hospital like a business because it is one. Our goals are providing medical care but we have to generate money to treat patients Abhimanyu. It takes a practical mind to see that.” He just sighed at his father’s words and continued walking down the pathway. “You should be back home in India helping us run Birla Hospital,” Harshvardhan implored. “ I have no ill wishes for Dr. Smith and his wife’s clinic. Your aunt and uncle need you…we need you Abhimanyu…Birla Hospital…your family.”

“No, you need a poster boy for the media to print articles about,” he said as he stopped in front of a bench. “I decided to help a friend in need. You make it sound like I have gone and quit forever. I’ll be back in a year. And if you are so concerned over Birla Hospital what are you doing out here?”

“Researching for the future of Birla Hospital. One of the board members is an old college friend of mine who invited me to come and see how they run City General. I was particularly interested in their IVF program and how they manage their night shifts. There is also an upcoming convention in Las Vegas that we will be attending together.”

“Have fun at the convention,” he sternly replied and started to turn ready to walk away when he was stopped by his father’s next question.

“Abhimanyu, have you given any thought about what your mother asked? You should take some time to think about it.”

“I just want to focus on my career.”

“Just take a look at the profiles your mother sent you. All capable doctors with promising careers. Any one of them will be well suited for you.”

“Why are they all doctors?” he questioned.

“You’re a doctor and only you know how demanding that profession is especially for a surgeon. Finding someone who is also in the same field professionally will help a lot. She will understand the pressures of your work and you will have something in common to talk about. Wouldn’t you want that?”

He couldn’t help but let out a sarcastic laugh. “Things in common? Are you sure it isn’t because you want the future power couple to take over Birla Hospital? Dr. Abhimanyu Birla and his wife?”

“Exactly! And what is wrong with that thinking? You are the future of Birla Hospital Abhimanyu. It’s correct for you to start thinking about these things…the legacy of what is to come and be. There is no shame in this. It is to guarantee our future,” Harshvardhan proudly stated. “I don’t understand why you are so cynical about these things.”

“Because you and I differ about what it means to work in a hospital. I’m not interested in getting married. Just let me focus on my work.”

“Why? Why are you so against this? This is the natural progression in everyone’s life. Listen, at some point you have to grow up and be a man. This bachelor lifestyle has to go.”

“There is nothing wrong with my lifestyle,” he argued. “Nothing wrong.”

“You will get married and settle down and then have children. You understand that?”

“Nothing wrong,” he repeated, trying to drown out his father’s words. “No, you don’t get to dictate to me what I should be doing in my life…I’m not some five year old child…you don’t get to tell me when I should be doing something nor how I should be doing something. It is my life! Mine! I’ve seen you control my mother’s life and I won’t allow you to control mine, Sir!” The last sentence came out like a growl as he looked down at his father with defiant dark eyes.

“Abhimanyu Birla that is out of line. Don’t you dare disrespect me, I am still your father! You will get married when I say so!”

“Just because you donated doesn’t make you my father!” he hurled back. He saw the gleam of red in his father’s eyes as his hand raised upward in a threatening manner. The air was thick with tension as he stared angrily at his father daring him to land the strike that was hanging in the air. The argument was interrupted by a cell phone ring. Harshvardhan lowered his hand and adjusted his tie before coolly answering his phone, “Hello, yes,” and walked away. He was now left alone blazing with anger. He looked about him, his pulse still ringing in his ears and stomped down on a large stone flower pot next to the bench. The force of his foot was so strong that the heavy pot was pushed crooked to the side, exposing the black potting soil underneath. He took a few deep breaths clenching and releasing his fists trying to calm himself down.

***************************************************************

He yawned heavily as he opened the apartment door, entering into the dark front hallway. Gingerly taking his shoes off he shuffled into the main living room only to be met with bright lights, a panic scream, and a threatening slipper in the face. “Abhi!?” The look of perplexion soon faded into annoyance as he looked at Akshara. “Is it a habit of yours to hit people with slippers?” He rubbed the side of his cheek sourly.

“Why do you have a habit of scaring me?” she peeved. “Walking in some ungodly hour and you want to make it like it’s my fault to act like this?” Continuing to ramble in anger, “Didn’t even bother turning on the light…when I’ve been alone not knowing when or what time you were going to come home…not even picking up my calls…and he has the audacity to get angry at me for hitting him…a single young woman alone in the apartment and hears a door open so late in the night…wouldn’t think that I would have been scared…thought it may have been a burglar…nooo…not even thankful that I’ve been waiting…maybe anxious…”

“Wait, you were waiting for me?” he asked innocently.

“No,” Akshara denied. He sensed her hesitation as she continued to look apprehensively at him. “Why would I be…” She never got to complete her sentence when a voice rang out of a small round speaker sitting beside the TV announcing very clearly. “Abhi reminder. Eleven hours.” His eyes widened at the reminder announcement and looked at Akshara who was busy avoiding his gaze. “The number of hours you’ve been gone,” she sheepishly replied.

“The battery died,” pulling out his phone to explain the lack of communication, “‘I’m sorry.”

He saw her respond to his words and as she turned towards him she asked, finally noticing his appearance. “What happened to your shirt?”

“Oh,” touching his white dress shirt now marred with dirt, “There was an accident. A four car pile up. David, Saloni, and I helped the passengers get out of the cars. One of them went into cardiac arrest. I rushed him to the hospital. We were there for some time making sure everyone was okay. Mr. Malhotra made it out of surgery and is expected to make a full recovery.” He then sighed, “And I ran into my father.”

“Your father is here?” Akshara replied with curious enthusiasm. He gave her a questioning look, making her lower her excitement. “I know you aren’t very fond of talking about him. But it’s nice he’s in town isn’t it? You haven’t seen him in a while.”

“Nice, isn’t exactly the word I would use,” he snorted.

“Abhi, I’m sorry…”

“Don’t be,” he quickly corrected. “I better get out of these dirty clothes.” He turned to walk towards his bedroom and then stopped and tilted his head back towards her. “Thank you. For waiting up and being concerned.”

***************************************************************

In some fresh pajamas, his damp hair slowly drying from his morning shower, and a strong cup of coffee in hand he looked across the dining table at Akshara who was thoroughly engrossed at the iPad in her hand. His eyebrows knitted in perplexion at the seemingly mirthful expression on her face. “Look this one likes coffee like you do…takes it black like you.”

“Just because we prefer to take our coffee black doesn’t mean we are compatible,” he sighed as he took a drink of his coffee. His eyes followed as Akshara took a sip from her mug and scrunched her nose up in an adverse reaction. “You don’t have to drink it if you don’t like it. No one is forcing you to. Why aren’t you having your morning chai?”

“We ran out of tea leaves,” she explained. “I’m okay with coffee, just not something I drink a lot of that often.”

“Your face says otherwise.”

“I tried it black like you do. I don’t understand how you can drink it this way,” Akshara frowned.

“Black? Don’t be silly,” he replied and took her cup from her hands and went to the kitchen. He re-heated the coffee in the microwave and added two spoonfuls of cane sugar and a splash of heavy cream. “Have this instead.” He watched as she took a sip. “Better?” She simply nodded her head in agreement. Satisfied he smiled and sat back down at the table and picked up his fork to finish off the last of the veggie omelet that she had made for them for breakfast.

“Since you said no to the black coffee girl. How about this one? “Dr. Sheila Basu, a state topper…received a gold medal in biology…”

“Doesn’t matter to me if she is a state topper or not. Next.”

“Uh-oh, here is a pediatrician, which means she is probably good with children.”

“I’m not thinking about having children right now. Next.”

“Dr. Malik, her hobby is hiking which means she exercises and so is watching her health. You like exercising too.”

“And there are animals in the woods I don’t want to get attacked by a bear. Next.”

“Hey, you know you should stop being so judgmental about these profiles. These are real people you know. Your mother took the time to search through these and pick out the best profiles for you.”

“Anyone can look good on paper. It’s easy to type whatever you want on an application. I’m not being disrespectful I am simply not interested. I’ve told my parents I do not want to get married. And why are you taking this much interest in trying to set me up?” he inquired in a higher tone than normal. It was like a child whining to their parents. “First my mother and now even my pretend wife wants to set me up,” he grumbled. “Maybe my pretend wife should stop all of this and start acting like my real wife.”

“Excuse me?” Akshara questioned.

His mouth dropped slightly ajar realizing what he had just said. “I, um-ah…” he stammered and took the iPad out of her hands. “If you think this is so much fun why don’t we play matchmaker for you too.”

“Well, I don’t have any profiles e-mailed to me so I don’t know where you think you can find anything.”

“Let’s see if you have a profile here on Shaadi.com. I can always search for you,” he smirked.

“Whatever, you can try,” she replied and started to clear away the dishes.

“What are you doing? It’s my job to clear that away. Sit,” he ordered. “Oh-ho! I found it! Akshara Goenka.”

“What?! It must be someone else. Mimi and Bade Mama…they-they wouldn’t.”

“Oh, but they did. See for yourself,” he grinned, handing over the iPad. He then proceeded to clear the table and start to wash the dishes.

“They did. They really did,” Akshara gasped. “Why did they put this picture up?”

“What’s wrong with the picture?”

“My eyebrows are a little crooked. I had to correct it with eyeliner,” she sighed. “This outfit, I wore for my cousin’s wedding…everyone was in such a rush that day.”

“I didn’t even notice. You look nice.”

“If there is a profile here that means they’ve been talking to matchmakers…but I’m not ready.”

He chuckled at her coming to the realization that she was now in the same situation as him. “You were having so much fun earlier, now what happened?” he teased.

“I’m not ready to get married. I’m still finding out about myself,” she sighed.

“Finding out about yourself,” he repeated with great curiosity.

“You know…understanding how you fit into this whole world…what drives you…your passion…what makes me Akshara Goenka.”

“Ah-cha…so what have you found out about yourself?” he asked as sat back down in his chair whipping his hands on a kitchen towel..

“Music is my passion, my focus…that much I am sure of,” Akshara mused.

“Is that why you choose music therapy as a profession?”

“I want to help people and music has the power to do that,” Akshara replied.

“Ever thought about becoming a professional singer?”

“Singer? No, not really. I have stage fright.”

“Stage fight? Didn’t you perform in front of crowds at that concert in the park?” he asked.

“I was so nervous when I got up there. I didn’t know how I managed to sing through it. I sounded shaky. You should have seen me when I got off stage. I was shaking all over.”

“Well, from where I stood you sounded beautiful,” he smiled. He took a drink of coffee and continued, “So music is your focus. That’s a good thing.”

“But besides music…who I am as a person and how I feel about myself…I don’t know,” she replied in a contemplative manner.

“I see someone who not only possesses a beautiful smile but a beautiful heart. Through music she spreads happiness and emotional support to those in need. She’s the type of person you always want in your corner yet she’s always been there in that corner rooting for you. Because that is who she is; a sympathetic ear, a warm hug, and always ready with a plate full of kachoris to satisfy your hunger…” He watched as her lips widened into laughter as her eyes teared.

“Abhi, thank you.”

He simply shook his head in acknowledgment. “Hey, don’t you have clinic soon?” Akshara had stopped working at David and Saloni’s charity clinic as her rotational clinic work started in her program. She was working directly with one of the local hospitals.

“It's been moved to later this afternoon.” She then let out a yawn. “Oh, excuse me.”

“You should get some sleep. You’ve been up earlier than normal,” he advised.

“You should too. You’ve been up more hours than I have,” gently rubbing her right eye.

“Surgeon hours. You get use to it. But you are right. Thank you again for a delicious breakfast.”

“Anytime,” Akshara smiled and then got up and walked into her bedroom.

He ran his hand over his hair and let out a loud yawn. “Better get to bed Dr. Abhimanyu Birla.”

***************************************************************

He flipped the red envelope in his hand curious who’s wedding invitation he had received. He was on his way out from work when a staff member handed the envelope to him stating that a young man had dropped it off at the front desk while he was with a patient. He smiled to himself as he entered the apartment hearing familiar giggles coming from the living room.

“Hello Abhimanyu,” Maya greeted. He watched perplexed as she suddenly rushed towards him with a shocked look on her face. “How did you get the wedding invitation?”

“Invitation?” Akshara asked. “Just because the envelope is red doesn’t mean it's a wedding invitation.”

“You know our wedding cards. You know if it is an invitation just by looking at it or the weight. You know how much we spend on special paper and designs,” Maya explained.

“She’s right,” he agreed and let her take the envelope from him. “So, who’s invitation did I receive?”

“Wait! Oh My God!” Maya shouted loudly, confusing him. He glanced at Akshara who wore the same expression. “You’re the doctor! You’re the doctor who saved my uncle!”

“Your uncle?” he asked.

“Dear Dr. Abhimanyu Birla, thank you for saving my life that day. If you had not been there to get me out in time I would not have lived to see the day my son would get married. Please accept this invitation as a heartfelt thank you from me and the family. It would be our honor if you could join us in these festivities as my eldest son gets married two months from now. Regards, Mohan Malhotra. P.S. The accommodation booking will be taken care of by the family once we receive the RSVP mail back.” Maya read out loud from a small note inserted into the invitation envelope. “Thank you Abhimanyu for saving my Mohan Uncle’s life. I heard the story of how he made it to the hospital. But my stupid cousin Rishi couldn’t remember the name of the doctor who saved his father’s life! Jai is the one getting married. Rishi is his younger brother. This is going to be so much fun! We are going to have a lot of fun in Vegas!”

“We?”

“I invited Akshu too!” Maya answered happily. “Oh come on, you two won’t have to worry about anything. No one there knows you are pretending to be married. I mean if you want to pretend you are married that is totally up to you guys. It’s just going to be me, my cousins, my family…and some guest that you guys wouldn’t know.”

“What do you mean by just family? What about Pihu, Christina, and Ayush? Didn’t you invite them too?” Akshara questioned.

Waving her hand in the air, “Ah, you know them…they aren’t one hundred percent sure.

"Ayush? Who's Ayush?" He asked.

"Ah, you don't have to worry about him,” Maya replied trying to hide her smirk. “He’s into guys. Well, maybe you would have to worry if he hits on you."

"He's not into guys he's dating Stephanie…they are in a long distance relationship," Akshara divulged and then placed her hands over her mouth. "Oh…that was supposed to be a secret."

Maya's eyes widen, "What?! He is seriously dating a girl? I never thought…just that he never really interacted with girls that much, he seemed disinterested."

"He acted disinterested because he had a girlfriend Maya," Akshara explained. "You cannot tell anyone this is supposed to be a secret. You know he has a cousin who goes to the same school. No one in the family knows he is dating Stephanie except for his immediate family. I only found out by accident when I overheard him talking on the phone. He begged me not to tell anyone. You have to swear Maya. Not a word."

“I swear, I swear,” Maya replied.

“I won’t tell either,” he answered feeling compelled to make the same promise by the way Akshara was demanding.

“Oh, I gotta get going,” Maya said as she checked her watch. “I have to get to work. You two decide how you want to do this. I’ll talk to you later, bye!” And just like that Maya had hurriedly left the apartment leaving Akshara and him alone. He glanced towards her feeling a strange twinge of nervousness around him. He couldn’t really comprehend why as his mouth opened and asked, “So. What do you want to do?”

***************************************************************

Song: Barso Re

Credit Lyrics: Gulzar

Credit English Lyric Translation: Filmy Quotes (https://www.filmyquotes.com)

Song: Piya Tose Naina Lage Re

Credit Lyrics: Shailendra

Credit English Lyric Translation: Filmy Quotes (https://www.filmyquotes.com)