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posting an update after ages. please do pardon typos and errors.
ThankYou all for your constant support, motivation, belief and love.
Forever indebted and Grateful❤️
Chapter 4
Before she could make a note, he gently pulled her and, in the process securely carried her in his arms. She could barely protest as if literally his enigma silenced her. He shone bright under the moonlight, her knight in shining armor, she couldn’t possibly deny the warmth which made her feel secure. She perplexedly looked at him as he placed her on the bonnet. The not so supposed stranger did nothing ,apart from tossing bits of cotton, he smirked. She hissed in pain as he gently cleaned her wound and carefully did the dressing. She embarrassedly looked at his figure as he walked back to collect her sandals. She couldn’t figure out any reaction from his face as he walked past the bouquet of roses, .. .. it looked masked. She gasped as he tightened her seat belt, bringing her back to reality. The incident was not less than a nightmare. She squeezed her eyes processing the present state of her life. She wished to acknowledge him, but apart from a few lumps nothing moved out of her throat. She doubted and feared his weird silence. Ever since he saw Samar, she was mentally prepared for his lectures. But to the contrary he spoke nothing. Nearly 10 minutes past the drive, his phone buzzed. “Yes Maa, she is fine, we are coming home, don’t worry”..he answered. That must be Karuna Maa, she thought and turned to look at him as he quickly disconnected the call. “Everyone at home is much worried and here some people are shamelessly enjoying romantic dates”..he gritted his teeth, hitting hard on the steering. She was taken aback witnessing his sudden outburst. She knew no words would be enough to justify the situation and chose to be mum. It hurt her so badly, his accusations. She drifted her view outside the window, yearning for peace, silently wiping her tears. He looked at her passively in definite intervals. Her silence irked him. He so wished his interpretation to be wrong, but her unsaid words added more to his suspicion. Was he feeling jealous?. No way..why would he feel so. It was his anger, nothing more nothing less. Both of them didn’t realize how time passed and they finally reached Khanna mansion. She tried to get out of her seat and to her surprise he came to her aid. Securely held her shoulders and gently guided her to the entrance door. She silently studied his face, it looked blank with no sensible emotions. She gulped as he took baby steps and lead her to the living area.
The Khanna ladies swarmed around her like bees. The warmth, affection , concern ..it was beyond her imagination. She wished if things were different, she would have had a peaceful and happy life, with such a loving family by her side. Her eyes brimmed with tears witnessing their affection and concern. There was nothing she could do in return for their unconditional love. Shaurya was constantly bombarded with questions and he managed with his curt replies. She looked at him and he chose to ignore her. Though she denied, their family doctor was there in no time. He neatly dressed up her wound and left, prescribing few medicines and complete bed rest for the next three days. Meanwhile she could spot some deep conversation between the mom son duo. And she could sense from his composure that it was about her. There was no bond nor any camaraderie, still they could read each other’s gestures, though occasionally…she wondered.
As the hours passed, one thing she waited for alone was the confrontation. All have dispersed to their rooms by then. She fluttered her lashes remembering how he carried her to his (their) room and securely placed her on the couch. He did behave like an ideal partner, carried her inside the washroom and placed her on a chair, apparently her walking aid. She could see her mother-in-law’s eyes gleaming with happiness adoring her son. She was indeed proud. It never felt that he was acting or may be he is very good at acting. He made her comfortable on his bed after finishing up the dinner. The silence and tension evoked as they were left alone finally. She watched him intently as he looked busy with his laptop. Why is he silent? Does he know anything about Samar? The question wandered in her mind constantly. The mental tension, her plastered foot and what made things worse were her menstrual cramps. Twitching the material of her night shirt she whimpered. She noticed that he was unusually calm, and that equally irked and bothered her. He was smart enough to steal glances unnoticed by her. He got up and casually walked off the room. She looked on as he walked away. Her phone buzzed with the chat notification. It was Sonal, enquiring about her well being. She closed her eyes resting her back on the head rest. “Here have this”…. he said while forwarding her a painkiller and hot water bag. Though she got alarmed by his sudden entry, a smile appeared on her face welcoming his gesture. “You can comfortably sleep on the bed, I’ll manage on the couch”. ..he added. “There is no need”…before she could complete, he moved towards his study paying no attention to her. Such a weird being, she thought to herself. She wished to acknowledge him for everything, but his behavior forced her to keep mum. Soon she drifted into a deep slumber, antibiotics did the magic, else her nightmare turned reality would have given her jitters. Shaurya closely observed as he saw her step into deep slumber. His mother’s words constantly ringed in his ears.. “Shaurie, you have brought someone’s daughter home, she left her family to become a part of your family. It’s your sole responsibility to look after her and give her all the happiness.” Covering her with the duvet, he looked at her sleeping figure, her angelic face and the encounter with that stranger said two different stories. He couldn’t divert his mind, the stranger’s image reappeared every time. He was so adamant to find out the stranger’s identity. Or was it the fact that he couldn’t digest - Mehak Sharma had a boyfriend. She is young, beautiful and talented ,any man would wish to have her in his life. Wait..what, was he admiring her?!. So much adoration in a month!...his mind complemented. His mind churned out numerous questions. Though he settled on the couch with his comfy pillow and duvet, he couldn’t sleep peacefully. Her silent whimpers wavered around for a considerably long part of the night.
Next morning,
Sonal rushed to her side. Mehak steadied herself and whispered “I told you right, there is nothing to worry about. you should have refrained yourself from coming here na”. "How could I?, I couldn't sleep properly , I feel guilty yaar ,I shouldn't have ignored your speculations back then." Sonal said in her sweet apologizing tone. " I'm fine, see its just a minor injury, you might get late for your office, we'll talk later."...Mehak tried to wrap up their conversation. "Arey I just came now and you are in a hurry to send me off. Did Shaurya confront you? Tell me about everything in detail. What did Samar tell you? I shouldn’t have ignored your thoughts about him following you. Was he alone?"..Sonal continued her enquires, while Mehak eyed her to keep mum. " What happened to you Mehak? Why are you keeping mum? And why are you dancing with your eyes. Kya khadoos wale handsome ne yahan pe camera lagwaye hain? (oh that handsome devil installed cameras here ..haan?) ". Before she could continue further, there appears the handsome devil, all the way from the balcony. Sonal flashed a half and uncomfortable smile. Mehak looked at her unapologetically. ” H… h…hai Shaurya..I mean Hai Shaurya jiju.”…she stammered. Mehek folded her hands across her chest, as she was expecting him any moment to interrupt their conversation. “Hai Ms Sonal. How are you doing? Paying a visit to your physically and mentally injured best friend”…he passed on his signature taunt. Mehak scrunched her nose in annoyance. “Not a certified mental case like you Mr. Khanna", came her reply “. He twisted his brow and walked away. Sonal tried her best to suppress her laugh. “ Samar”…he murmured, the stranger has got a name, he smirked and walked away. Sonal apologized after he left , “ sorry Mehak, I didn’t knew he was here, I hope he didn’t hear anything”..she added. Mehak listened to her without any profound emotion. After a measured pause, she continued “ Mehak, please don’t get offended , why can't we discuss about Samar to Shaurya. "You know how complicated things are and you want me to take that devil's help?. don't be childish Sonal, he is not my husband, I can't blindly force someone to solve my personal problems"...Mehak declared being annoyed. Do you really think you'll be able to fight this battle alone?, be practical Mehak, think about it"...Sonal concluded, leaving Mehak confused and moreover disturbed.
Few kilometres away,
“But … sir without any surname”… the two men said in unison before lowering their eyes.
“Surname my foot .Don’t act like fools. I don’t understand, why you call yourselves private investigators? I don't want you to get the statistics of all the men in Delhi. I want to know about the connection between Mehak Sharma and Samar. Not her colleague and close acquaintance for sure. Could be her "…Before he could continue further Rajeev interrupted after dismissing the two men. “ Stop it Shaurya, there is a limit to everything. It's high time you mind your own business and stop stalking her. At least she is brave enough to live with you. Learn something from her. And what if he is her boyfriend, or they are in a relationship?.You can’t question or invade her privacy”. “ Rajeev, Rajeev…Rajeev, you get offended so easily. You know I have many rivals in business, what if they are using her as a pawn against me. There is definitely something wrong, I can sense that”.. Shaurya contributed fixing his sharp gaze . “For your kind Information Shaurya, the day when she agreed for this proposal, I could only see helplessness in her eyes not conspiracy”. ” Arey, biwi hai meri, she is my wife, if I don’t have the right then who else would“...Shaurya replied suggestively. Rajeev mocked with a sarcastic laughter..."Is it Shaurya?....Then have an open conversation with her like a true gentleman. Tell her everything, that neither you wanted to lose Mr Patil’s deal, nor you wished to marry his daughter. And your ailing grandmother wished to attend your marriage asap. And according to you, you were left with this option alone, your so called agreement. It’s like hitting two birds with a single stone. Nani is happy and the deal is fixed". His face ashened on hearing Rajeev. Though it was the ultimate truth, it prickled his heart. he balled his fist in agitation and anger. "I fear that one day, it will make to the headlines that, Shaurya Khanna has been stalking his wife."..Rajeev put forth his best card. "Hmm.. This has no effect on me, my dear friend. I'll try every possible way to find him. I don’t think he is a good match for her, period...Shaurya left smirking. Rajeev looked on with his mouth wide open as he stood absolute clueless about his friend's statement. he could find traces of jealousy somewhere around.
He returned home by late afternoon. Mehak who was happily enjoying her me time, felt bit uneasy. He glared at her as usual and passed on a momentary gaze on her injured foot. . She straightened herself on hearing a knock on the door. He walked towards the door mechanically and opened it. Rahul stood at the door along with Appu. Rajeev's words already ruined his day and he didn't wish for another annoying conversion. Before he could speak, Appu interrupted…"Rahul is here to meet Bhabhi". Rahul smiled while Shaurya didn’t reciprocate and left the room in haste. “Bhai is still upset with me I suppose”..he spoke. Mehak nod her head in denial and signalled the duo to be seated. Appu excused herself and left to bring in tea. She was unsure where this conversation would lead to, moreover she couldn’t stand Rahul’s complaints about their relation. Though there was an initial pause, Mehak tried to converse with Rahul. It was a hearty conversation and considerably long. She has got her own share of experiences and thus used them to make him understand. He was convinced with her practical approach .Appu and Rahul , patiently listened to Mehak’s words. She guided them like an elder sister. Their talks continued for hours. “ I have already started repenting for my mistakes , Appu has never complained to me till date. I used to get offended by Shaurya bhai's accusations earlier. But he was right , I was too immature to understand it at that time. ThankYou so much . Shaurya bhai is really lucky to have you Bhabhi, may god bless”…Rahul embraced her with affection, thanking her . A happy tear escaped her lashes as the duo left.
Shaurya was enjoying his time with his canine mate in the lawn. He spotted Rahul , as he drove out of the mansion. Appu came running towards him. "Hey Appu take it easy, how many times have I told you to be careful". Appu smiled panting rhythmically. "So finally Mr. Rahul has got some time for his wife." He couldn't possibly ignore the happiness that gleamed in her eyes. "What was he talking to Ms. Shar…. I mean with Mehak.. I meant Mehak, uhm…my wife"... he somehow managed. “Haan bhai, I'm well aware that she is your wife"...Appu giggled and continued.. "I want to thank you foremost bhai, coz of you Bhabhi became a part of our life. and today because of her, I got my Rahul back". He twisted his brows in confusion. "Yes bhai, everything is sorted now, we'll be living together"..Appu narrated everything like an enthusiastic child. "And you forgot everything so easily, like how he ignored you all these months" ..he asked out of concern and being agitated at the same time. "Rahul has changed for the good Bhai, please do forgive him"..Appu pleaded with her puppy eyes. He embraced her little sister comforting her. There was no point in continuing the conversation he thought.
Mehak finished her dinner. Unlike yesterday, Mr Khanna was not around, to play the ideal husband's act. She was busy with her phone post dinner. He stormed into his room, alarming and scaring her simultaneously. “Stay away from Appu’s life, how many times I need to repeat the same thing? Are you dumb..can’t you register this into your shitty brain?”..he bursted out. “I did what is right and you don’t have any right to question me. I’m not your puppet”…she gave it back to him. “See Mehak Sharma, I have repeated umpteen times to you ,to stay away from my personal matters. You are an outsider and stay in your limits”...he warned her pointing his forefinger towards her face. “I’m well aware that I’m an outsider Mr. Khanna and I’m here because of your shitty agreement. I can’t keep my humanity at bay for your sake. Appu needs at most care and most importantly she needs to be happy. I did what I found to be right. No more arguments please. Can't you see your sister happy and content with her life? And I don’t think this marriage drama is going to work well, have a control on your voice."..came her befitting reply. "Planning to quit Mehak Sharma? All your problems got sorted haan. Or is it like you have plans to elope with your roadside Romeo"..he spat venom again. "Mind your words Mr. Khanna, that’s none of your concern."..she grit her teeth in annoyance. “Oh really, Wow I mean you can do anything you wish and you expect others to keep mum. Bloody middle class tactics". ..he spat again. "Why are you hell bent in ruining my mental peace"...she sounded being defeated.
Before , he could continue. his phone beeped with Mr. Khurana's voice message. Breathing for a moment. Both sighed in unison. As promised or warned, Mr Khurana has forwarded the soft copy of the unusually weird contract of his clients.
The agreement which reads:
This contract is being signed by (first party) Mr. Shaurya Harish Khanna and (second party) Ms. Mehak Sharma.
The above parties intend for this Agreement to become effective upon their marriage.
The said proposal was documented as per request of the first party and the second party obliged to accept the same.
As the said contract exists in the tenure of the marriage. Both the parties must abide to all rules and guidelines in the document. This document has been furnished considering the individual choices and demands of both the parties. Neither of them could initiate to make any changes without the willingness of both the parties. Modifications could only made with mutual interests alone. And the contract shall exist until the concerned parties are granted divorce, after completing all the said procedures.
Demands surfaced by first party:
Second party will stay at my residence, or any place of my choice until divorce.
Second party will not have any rights on my business and property.
Second party will not attempt any physical or mental assaults on me and my family.
Demands surfaced by second party:
The first party cannot abuse and force me into a physical relation. The marriage shall remain contractual alone.
The first party holds the responsibility of the safety of the second party.
The first party may be held responsible for any sort of assault (physical or mental )
The second party initiated for the clause and is duly verified by the authority and willfully signed by first party. The petition for divorce could be filed only after the second party applies for PR in London.
She blinked back her tears as she finished reading. PR in London, the key to the final escape! she exclaimed with a pathetic smirk. To what extent circumstances forces a person to trade one’s life, dreams and aspirations, she wondered. Though Shaurya Khanna irritated her to the core, she wished him a peaceful life after this fiasco. She was unsure about hers anyway.
He on the other side was quite disturbed for the first time after reading his masterplan, the infamous agreement of Shaurya Khanna. He was more than curious to know her reasons. it turned out to be one of his latest insecurities.
Ironically Mr khurana dropped a bomb ruining his clients sleep.
After three days of complete bedrest Mehak felt much better, though she was still limping. she couldn't believe that her rival slept on the couch all these days. It was late evening and she was mentally preparing to thank him for his hospitality, and politely ask him to sleep on the bed. Her eyes were fixed on the washroom door impatiently, so that she could recite her lines at the earliest. An unpleasant surprise awaited her in the form of Ms Pranati . "Shaurieee"....came her extra sugar quoted voice , precise enough to vibrate Mr Khanna's eardrums as he walked out of the washroom.
Mehak made faces on seeing her and murmured “aa gayi chudail “ (witch is back). Through the corner of her eye she tried to capture his expression, but she couldn’t. The so called ladylove clamped in a skimpy outfit ran towards him and embraced him. She excused herself and moved to the balcony. She could mask her expression with an intention to give them privacy. But she was somehow irked with her proximity. She made herself busy with her phone but all the while her eyes roamed around to sneak into his bedroom. She could hear Pranati making some remarks about her. And to the contrary only hear his curt replies. Their conversation lasted for some time. Pranati was trying her best to seek Mehak's attention with her gestures. She could hear few traces of an argument about his marriage, etc etc. Though she showed less to no intention to dig deeper into his reasons. Pranati's constant visit irked her and made her suspicious. When his eagle eyes met hers via the window pane, she diverted her view and concentrated on her phone screen. she didn't bother to look back either when she could sense a heated argument arising between the duo. Pranati left after banging the door.
He gritted his teeth marching his way towards the balcony. mehak straightened herself. May be he is here to boast about his high class girlfriend, nevermind...she thought to herself. but his question surprised her. "You just walked away like, she is my wife. What if she had any doubts? You should have asked her not to hinder our privacy right?"..he blurted out and then thought about the depth of his words “Our privacy”. The damage was already done and before he could correct, she sarcastically quoted his words “our privacy”. That witch keeps yelling that you both are madly in love, then why should I interrupt your private talks". She wondered why he didn’t give any reaction upon calling his girlfriend like that. He paused for a while as if he was in deep thoughts. “Is it? I mean, how could I forget, you too have a boyfriend and even I interrupted your private meeting that day. You mean I shouldn’t have come there and invaded your privacy, Am I right Ms. Sharma?”.. he came to his moot point again. She felt suffocated on hearing his noisome arguments. She was tired of his sick remarks. "Why do I need to prove my loyalty, you aren’t my husband for real Mr Khanna". His blood boiled on hearing her, he painfully squeezed her shoulders, scanned her face with his blood red eyes. She reached the moribund, as if he would squeeze her to death. Her heart beats vibrated in mayhem. She hissed in pain and pushed him away with full force. Reality hit him, he gently shut his eyes to calm his mind and moved back meekly. “I’m sorry”..he left with an apology without meeting her eyes.
This was not going in the right direction. At times this marriage doesn't look like fake at all. Why she need to bear all these to secure something which is unreal. she couldn't stop thinking time and again.
He was disturbed to the core. Hated himself for his weird behavior. What the hell was wrong with him to act like that. Why Mehak sharma is given more importance in his life?.. he pondered.
The chaotic minds were wound in threads of dilemma, constantly questioning why they made this decision.
Days passed, both of them refrained themselves from initiating a conversation. Things weren't smooth, but not complicated either. Mehak was back on her feet. The Khanna ladies treated her like a queen. She was planning to join back her office. The same fear crawled back again. She was not confident enough to drive to her workplace henceforth.Though she didn't wish to misuse her identity as Shaurya Khanna's wife, on Karuna maa's insisting she got the supreme privilege of working from home. Unbeknowst to her, her mother in law had already got some plans as well. A shocking and unpleasant surprise for her son.
"Appu and Rahul are planning to shift to their new apartment after her delivery. I want everything to be perfect as they start their new beginning. She wishes that you both look into the intricate details and furnishing. You both need a break. So you both are going to stay there, for the next one month"...Karuna declared in one breath. Twist in the tale, Mrs Karuna scored this time. Mehak stuttered to find words, while Shaurya declared. "No Maa, that's not possible, I'm planning to focus on my upcoming projects". "Gurgaon is your site location right Shaurie, your apartment is just a few kilometres away from the site, you'll be home in ten minutes. Any other excuse to add on ??."..Karuna recited her already prepared explanation. "You are not intending to keep your workaholic nature at bay Shaurie. Money can't give you all the happiness. Spend some quality time with your wife. It’s decided and I don’t want any more conversation regarding this matter. Pack your bags and you are leaving by tomorrow evening". Mehak, was in deep thoughts after Karuna left. "This is happening only because of you, badi aayi motivational speaker, abb sado mere saath uss apartment mein (you just rot in that apartment with me). he mocked while pointing his forefinger. She sighed and fanned her lashes ignoring his words. " At least I can be myself for some days. I’m terribly tired with this. Even Shaurya Khanna’s accusations has started to bother me. I can’t imagine how long this fake play could go on". She thought.
Edited by dwriter - 2 years ago
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