Infatuation

Akash - By just listening this name Priya used to get some kind of strange vibes. Akash was her coworker. Priya was sort of attracted towards him for no reason. Akash had just joined the company and she was his mentor. Akash was very enthusiastic person. He always came to her with intriguing questions for which she felt little uncomfortable. They worked in the design verification team for a chip manufacturing company. Being a fresh graduate Akash had lot of fresh ideas and knowledge which he wanted to implement.

Priya noticed Akash for the first time in the team meeting where her manager had introduced him to the team. He was just a year younger to her but smarter than people in her team. Having a degree from IIT made him to out stand from other people at work. Priya couldn't draw her attention back from Akash at that moment. She noticed his hair, his forehead, his way of dressing. Every thing matched with Vinay, she thought. Slowly she started comparing Akash to Vinay in her mind which she couldn't even control. In some important meetings, she couldn't help herself notice how Akash looked as opposed to what he was suggesting. This was making her feel bad, but for some reason the moment she used to see him, she just got carried away!

Vinay, was the love of her life. She remembered how she loved him so much and what efforts she had put to convince her family to marry him. He was a smart, brilliant guy who wanted to grow ahead in his career. His career and principles were very important to him. But at the same time he loved Priya a lot. They made a small dream house in the city of Bangalore. They enjoyed the first year of marital bliss and now they were looking forward for many more. But Vinay got an opportunity to go to Switzerland to expand his team and he had become a team lead in no time. He didn't had much time for Priya and probably the loneliness had made Priya to get attracted towards Akash. Soon the mentoring period got over and Akash visited Priya's cubicle for fewer times. Priya was longing to see him and used to call him to her desk for silly questions.

One day Priya told to her friend, "I think I have a thing going for Akash!". "What??" Radha, Mitali told her in unison. "Well, I am figuring out why I feel like to see him everyday."

"What do you think about usually after seeing Akash?" asked Radha. "Hmm. Let me think. I think I usually think about Vinay and go online to check his facebook updates." she said. "So, that's clear Priya." "What, is this an infatuation you mean??" she asked. "No silly gal. How can it be? You are married to Vinay for god sake. I feel you are just meeting Akash because somehow he reminds you of Vinay." Mitali made an insight. It made Priya to really think about it. But she refused to believe that it wasn't an infatuation. That weekend when she spoke to Vinay she talked about Akash for half of their time. This made Vinay feel a little insecure but he knew what pains Priya took for their marriage. So, that made him to calm down.

But Priya on the other hand was confused. Whether its infatuation? whether its attraction? Or just because Vinay is not around she is trying to find 'her Vinay' in Akash which was silly.

The phone call

One fine morning Lucy woke up from her bed and suddenly she remembered to call her best friend Becky. It was a beautiful Sunday morning and Lucy wanted to discuss something very important. She hurriedly searched for the phone and started talking continuously.

Lucy: Becky, How are you? You know I have been wanting to talk to you about something that is happening to me. I really need your advice on this. Okay lemme give you the background of my concern.

(And Lucy goes on talking about her latest crush Ben...)

There is this cute guy in my class. I think I really love him but I don't think he thinks of me in this way. (She makes a sad expression.) I mean whenever, I see him or think about him I start blushing and there is this big smile on my face.

You know sometimes he sees me smiling and he smiles back in return. That's when I feel butterflies are flying in my stomach and my knees become jello. I totally think that he is cute and adorable. But when I went ahead from the smiling phase and one day I fell on my knees and he came to me asking if I am okay. He is so caring and considerate sometimes I feel may be I don't deserve a guy like him. I feel he is too perfect. He has this good sense of humor, great hairstyle and a dashing attitude.

When I look at all these girls who fall for him, I feel I could never be one of those. They are all so pretty, bitchy and charming. And here, look at me.. I don't even have a good dressing sense. But whenever I think of him my heart tells me that he is the one for me and I can be very very happy with him.

Now, one more thing I didn't tell you is this. One day he called me about homework. I will tell you how I made a complete fool of myself. I got so nervous hearing his voice that I started stammering and talking gibberish. I stuttered the whole time. But he was so sweet that he just kept on talking and calming me down.

He is just so perfect Becky, I don't know if I really deserve him. But whenever I pray in front of god I always keep wishing that one day he will notice me.

(Lucy gives a big pause after this, hoping for Becky's reaction to this)

Lucy: Becky? Are you listening to me? tell me what should I do?

Voice from Phone: Hmm.. this isn't Becky.

Lucy: Ohh.. I am sorry. But your voice sounds similar to me. who are you?

Voice from the phone: This is the same guy who's smile turns your knees to jello and whose presence makes you go out of your mind!

I just wanted to say one thing. Everything you just said, I've been wanting to say this since I met you in the class.

Lucy turned all pink and felt happy for dialing a different number than Becky's. The phone call did the magic!~

This post is written for sunday scribbling

Images taken from Google images and Pam's clip art.

The Photograph

I have published this work @induswomanwriting. It can be viewed here.

After a long time Grandma entered that room. Apparently, it was being ignored as many memories were associated with her life. She slowly entered the room holding a lantern since it didn't had any lights. Slowly, her legs moved forward and her eyes searched for something she desperately wanted to see. She was moving, holding back her excitement and suddenly a trunk came in her way. She fell down and screamed. Her grand daughter Ishika came running.

"Dadi, what happened?" asked the little one.

"Are you okay? come let me help you" she said.

"Thanks beta for coming" she said. "What are you doing here dadi?" Ishika was curious since she came to the room for the first time and as a child she wanted to explore everything around there.

"Ishu, come here I want to show you a surprise" Grandma's eyes were wide open.

She slowly pulled a photo frame that was dusty and hiding behind a safe since years. She used a cloth to dust off the dirt and brought the lantern near the photograph.

"Woww, dadi who is that" Ishika exclaimed.

"Ishika, today I want to tell you all about it" Grandma said.

Long long ago, there lived an ambitious girl. She wanted to have a glamour picture that would impress the Bollywood directors and she could be one of those actresses who would be remembered for years and years. So, she was roaming in Mumbai with the hope to find the best fashion photographer who would help her to get to Bollywood.

Image courtesy

In lieu of getting great pictures, she thought why not buy a fashion magazine and contact photographers like that. A rich girl like her doesn't have to worry about money. She came through 'Jublilee photography' studio just like that. They had taken pictures of famous movie actors like Asha Parekh, Madhu bala etc and she wanted to stand in the league.

So, she went to the Jubilee photographer and paid Rs. 50 for taking a glamorous picture of herself. She was given a make up session and an outfit to wear. After the picture was taken it was kept for developing the film into a 4x6 picture.

Rakesh was developing the film. He was the owner of the photo studio. When he made the 4x6 print he couldn't keep his eyes off the picture. He thought "She is the prettiest girl I have ever seen". He sat whole night staring her picture. He was clearly smitten by her charm. Next day he parked his car outside her apartment and knocked the door. She was brushing her hair. She opened the door and a cool breeze flowed in the doorway. Her hair started flying and clearing her charming face.

Rakesh suddenly regained his consciousness and said " Hi Mam, I am from the photography studio and came to deliver your pictures". "You mean you have them already!@" she screamed with joy. After she saw her pictures she gave the fees. But Rakesh kept her staring and said "Mam there is one more request. Would you please give me an autograph on this extra large picture? So that I would be the first one to get the autograph of the would be famous Bollywood heroine" saying this he opened the big frame and showed it to her.

"Oh yea.. sure. I am flattered." She said.

"What do you want me to write?" she took the pen while asking him.

"How about writing this: To Rakesh who knows that you are going to be an actress in Bollywood.." By this time she gave a big smile to him.

"But also who in the meanwhile want to meet you everyday and be with you"

"Wait a minute!" she said. "I am running out of space"

"Okay to make it short. To Rakesh, who thinks that you are the girl of his dreams and he won't be possibly happy in this world without having you as his wife!"

Well the girl never made it to the Bollywood, so you might have never seen this photograph before. Also, you would never see it anywhere in this house.

"Who is she Grandma?" Ishika asked with curious eyes.

"Ahem... well" Grandma said.

"Is that you ... " Ishika jumped in surprise.

Grandma nodded her head. Ishika was so happy as if she found a hidden treasure in that room.

"But who was Rakesh" she questioned.

"Well, Ishika somethings you shouldn't ask me at this age." she winked at her.

"Then in that case Dadi, do you want to have a look at this picture" she said while hiding a picture in the back.

Grandma smiled seeing that picture. "Wow, this is just so cute. who took this picture?" she asked. Gradually she read the name "Rakesh" and she was shocked.

"This is the same Rakesh Uncle." she told her and took Grandma in the balcony where she saw Rakesh sipping a cup of tea in his garden. When Rakesh saw her with the enlarged picture, he felt like the girl came out of the picture. Then she stared at him with so many questions in her eyes.

Journey

This story has been posted by me on Induswomanwriting as a part of their short stories collection.

It was a rainy day. Water was splashing continuously on the window pane making it difficult to see the outside environment. Shreya was waiting for someone. She was waiting for the postman who was going to deliver her letter-of-fate. She was an aspiring girl who wanted to pursue further studies abroad.

"And here is the first boundary in the very first ball of the inning!" shouted the commentator. India was first time into the world cup finals and looks like the whole country was shut down. Schools, government offices were unofficially closed due to this. Shreya waited passionately for the postman. While watching cricket she started wondering how she was taking this decision.

"I am planning to study abroad" she told this to Aman. "Are you asking me or telling me that you are going?" he asked her again. "Well, I want you to support me in this and accompany me. We can together build our career and life."

"No, Shreya I am tied up with my family I won't be able to leave India. I expect that you understand me and be by my side." Aman said. They exchanged cold glances. Clearly, they both were heading towards opposite directions. They loved each other but at this phase of time, Shreya wanted to grow ahead in her career at the same time she wanted Aman to grow as well. While Aman was the only son in his family and he wanted to be with his parents. Even though his Mom was against their relationship, but he wanted to convince her and marry Shreya.

"There goes the first wicket of India. Its a big blow, India lost it important wicket" cried the commentator. Shreya was disturbed by her thoughts. She was a passionate cricket lover. The reason was Aman. He was a state level player and she always boosted him by going to see all the matches he used to play.

"Hi Aman, its me. I won't be able to see your game today" Shreya informed him.

"No Shreya, that's not fair. You know that today was my important match and you said you will make it"

"Yes yes I know. I called you to say all the best. Actually, one of my friend is in a trouble and I need to help her."

"Okay, so i am not important to you. No matter how much i care for you, all you have to say is you don't have time for me. Fine. Do whatever you like." he didn't let her finish the talk.

"hey don't feel bad ... Hellooo .. Aman.. are you there?" There was a beep from the other side. Shreya got scared but she wanted to help her friend who had tried to commit suicide. She took her to the hospital and called her other friends who showed up promptly. She had to donate blood since her blood group matched with the patient's blood group. She felt dizzy after donating two bottles of blood but she wanted to make it to the match.

Meanwhile, the doorbell rang and she rushed to open the door. She got her admission letter from the university. She was happy as she read the acceptance letter in detail. After this turmoil in her life she knew she had to leave India for good and start a new life. But she was not prepared to go without Aman. She got a letter from him as well but she was scared to open the letter. It was from Aman.

India finished its batting inning with a massive score of 362 in 50 overs. It was very huge for the opposite team to beat India. Indian team had to undergo a month long journey of world cup cricket to make it to the final. So, they were prepared for such huge score and also with excelling balling line up. She went inside her room and thought she would read the letter and call up Aman to tell him that she will be leaving India soon.

Shreya wanted to be with Aman. This possessiveness in her was growing to a large extent. One day

she called up Aman when her parents were out of town. He came inside and Shreya was wearing a ravishing outfit. Aman got her into his arms and took her inside her bedroom...

After few days passed Shreya came to meet Aman. She looked tensed. Aman's mom opened the door and gave a sly look. Aman hurriedly took her to his room. "what's the matter?" he asked. "Aman I think I am pregnant" She said. But Aman's mom overheard this and immediately pounced on Shreya "Did you see Aman? how clever this girl is? Don't fall for her. She will let you down some day" Aman managed to send his mother outside but Shreya left his home and cried alot.

Sri Lanka was playing against India. It was giving back to India by series of sixes and fours. It was the tenth over and none of the wickets were in India's hands. "Hi Aman !" Shreya finally called him. "Hi, what's up?" he said. "Aman, please don't be so cold. I agree for my past mistakes but you didn't leave me any choice." she said. "Shreya, there is no point crying over a spilled milk. You are on your own now. all the best" he hung up the phone. Shreya cried a lot. She knew that he is not going to call her back after what happened.

"Hi Shreya, I have a news for you" Aman called her after a week since she disclosed about her pregnancy. "Aman.." she cried "where were you Aman? I have been calling you like hell". "Sorry dear, but I was working on our relationship. Listen I have a good news. I convinced my mom that the child is mine and somehow she has agreed to accept you despite what she has done to you in the past. I will be coming to your home with my sis. See you sweetheart." he hung up the phone. After an hour they both arrived at her place. Shreya welcomed them with a fake smile. "What's the matter?" he asked her. "Aman, I aborted the child" she started crying.. "Whattttttttt , why.." he asked her. "I didn't know what you were thinking. Plus you know my career and future. I can't spoil that." she said. "But Shreya, you came to me with this news and I thought we should get married" he was confused. " Aman, I still love you. We can go abroad make our career and then plan to get married. Why to hurry." she said. "Is that so? I thought you loved me, but you are so mean. You just think about yourself." he left hurriedly.

The final over approached. Everyone were glued to their seats. There were just 3runs left and that could have lead to India's defeat. But after two balls India got its final wicket. Wow ! that was so fast thought Shreya. She recollected her past life with Aman along with this match and the end of this match was end for India's journey. But it was a new beginning for Shreya since she was going to fly to Australia for further studies.

Being the other woman

After four years, I felt like I died and was reborn in this world. It wasn't my first love. But it was a lonely road and heart breaking experience. It was my first affair with a married man, although accidental but it was definitely an addiction !

It was a decade ago when we first met - he was my friend since my college days. At that time he was part of my close friends group. We came close to each other during college parties but it didn't turn out into love. It was a mere attraction. Later, life took us on different paths and sent us to different countries. Throughout this time, we tried to maintain contacts through IM and social networking sites.

Things turned out in a different way for us and we happened to move back to India. But I stopped using social networking sites for few months and didn't know what life has in store for me!

I went to a hotel in Mumbai for a work function and I ran to catch an elevator. Hastily, I stepped on a handsome guy and hurted him. While apologizing I realized its HIMMMMMMM... Wow I felt so happy meeting him accidentally and I felt like the universe is embracing me. I told him that he was my secret crush during college days and I never told him that. We flirted with each other casually for few mins and then laughed on our silly behavior. He told me that he got married couple years back and I told him that I didn't marry yet since I was trying to recover from my previous relationship and focusing on my career for now. We connected instantly like never before !

After going to our rooms, we decided to meet tomorrow. Events moved rapidly for us - Lunch, dinner, shopping, outing and what not ! One day, he expressed his feelings for me and I was taken aback. I was unknowing having the no-strings-attached fun. Well he was bright, articulate and handsome guy, we knew about each other since college days. So, what's the problem if he wants to just have an extra marital affair with me. I didn't knew that he meant this seriously but this is how I started my journey as "being the other woman".

It was a physical longing that pulled me towards him without any warning. My wanting to be surrounded by him was instinctive. However, permanence was never discussed between us but soon I became emotionally attached to him. We communicated with each other almost everyday on phone, skype and email. We met regularly in the weekdays but not in the weekends. I felt like i finally found someone with whom I can be with. We started planning for me to join him in his successive business trips in other countries. Everything he did and said screamed "Love" !

Slowly my position in his life became as a "mistress" instead of "college friend". I began my frequent travels and started spending a fortune on that. Whenever he went alone on a business trip, I flew 16hrs-20hrs to just meet him. We shared many intimate and fun times together. There was a freshness in our relationship. However, the sad part is I learnt many other things in this relationship as well. I learnt performing stunts like jumping out of a hotel window or gate to avoid being seen by his colleagues. At certain times I couldn't call him even if i need him urgently. For instance when he is with his family I cannot call him or send him an email since his wife looks over his shoulder to see what email he gets. I have to spend all my holidays sitting alone at home since he needs to join his family. This drove me crazy. He missed many important moments of my life and I missed his.

But I finally got to attend his birthday one year and I had to pretend as his college friend. It was right then i witnessed the way he interacted with his wife - way he cared for her, introduced her with others and put his arm on her. All I did was crying inside my heart. I felt like somewhere down the road I am losing my identity. It was hard being the other woman, mentally and emotionally. Since in reality, he will not be in my life whenever I need him. I started dating other guys from my work and thought I could forget him in that way. But we still ended up being back together.

During 3rd year of our relationship, he spoke about getting divorce from his wife. I thought finally the things are moving for us. He spent most of the timeat my home. But little did I know that it was the beginning of the end. He found job in another city and initially he would make calls to me regularly and insisting me to get a job over there. But slowly the calls ceased and he blamed it on the signal problem of cellphone carrier company. I went to his city for attending job interviews and he met me in the hotel lobby. It was an unfamiliar place but he didn't even help me to search for an apartment or a house. His behavior was totally different.

Yes, I had become 'the other woman' in his life. There is no getting around. I didn't get the privilege of talking or meeting him whenever I wanted. After six months, I spoke to him about the inconsistent communication between us even though we are in the same city, he suggested for a temporary break up. But what if he never takes the divorce? What if I would wait for him forever? With these thoughts I felt like he stabbed a knife on my back and I feel the pain. He deserted me for his convenience and I thought I should not take this any more. So I left that place.

It has been a month now, since I grieved for the death of my relationship. This breakup gave me the chance to breathe and wake up.

Love by chance !

Rima was a successful interior decorator. She was smart and intelligent. Her clients were always happy with her work. She had a great passion for this career and she always saw herself in this profession since her childhood. But in this rat race where she managed to keep the market demand high she forgot that she was getting old. Her 28th birthday was approaching and she forgot about it until her friends planned a surprise birthday for her.

She blew the candles and turned to her friends. Her friend asked her what was her wish. Rima replied "Well, if you girls won't judge me then i can tell my wish. I want to celebrate this valentine's day with my would be husband." Her friends were shocked. There was just one month left for the V'day to arrive and they were worried as they didn't wanted Rima to end up with a wrong guy. Suddenly, Rima looked very desperate to them.

She made attempts to find a guy by looking up in the dating sites. But she didn't find her Mr. Perfect in the online sites. She went for dinner in the evening with her close friend who was married now.

Rima - "Sheela, I want you to understand how much important it is for me to get married now. I turned 28 last week and look at me even though i have a successful career I have no one in my life."

Sheela - "Yes dear, but don't worry. Don't take hasty decisions. Look at me, I married a person of my parent's choice. I am very happy. right dear?" She asked her husband Amit.

Amit - "Yeah Rima. Look at you, you are so beautiful and stunning. I am sure a girl like you shouldn't worry much. Nowadays, no body cares when you get married. Moreover, 28yrs onwards would be the right time to get serious and marry someone."

Sheela was bit surprised by Amit's reaction but she just maintained a constant smile towards Rima.

Amit - "Infact I have a good news for you. I know a guy in my office who seriously wants to date a girl for marriage. If you are interested then you both can meet and see if it clicks."

Sheela - " Who is he? Is he Harsh?"

Amit replied "Yes, Harsh. Remember Sheela he got the best employee award and he is in fact the only son in his family. His family is well respected too. If you guys are okay then the families can meet and decide further."

Rima was elated to hear this.

Rima - "Yes, yes why not. I am open to meet Harsh. His name sounds exciting. Harsh means happy or happiness. I hope he fills my life with happiness" she was blushing so much. Sheela and Amit saw her excitement and told her that they will call Harsh talk to him and let her know when he could meet her.

Two days passed and Rima didn't get any call from the couple. She tried to reach Sheela and her husband and left voice message on their phone. She called Amit at his workplace and left a message with his secretary. Rima was getting paranoid as the days were passing by. She opened an account in Shaadi.com and started looking for suitable grooms. She tried to talk to couple of them online and found that they had just created the ids for fun and were not really into marriage. She was so furious, she took her phone and called shaadi.com helpline and reported about those fake ids. She was at Barista coffee shop with her single friends and they were just discussing about her progress regarding the "Groom search" when she got a call from Amit.

Amit - "Hey Rima, Amit here."

Rima - " Amit... huhh. you guys respond back to someone after 3 days ! In this way you guys will make me wait forever to meet Harsh. You guys should understand the gravity of my situation." She kept on ranting some or other things to him on the phone and suddenly she realized it was just too much!

Amit - "Hey dear, I know we really should have called you back. I am sorry we had to suddenly go to my mother's place. She was sick and there were some family issues which I had to take care of. My phone was switched off but I got the message from my secretary."

Rima - "Oh i am so sorry to hear that. I apologize for leaving wierd voice messages."

Amit - "No problem. I will arrange tomorrow's dinner for you at clubzone near the market place. Is that okay?"

Rima - "Yes ofcourse, I am eager to meet Harsh."

"I need to go to a beauty parlor immediately. I need to get a new haircut and get my facial done" She told to her friends. Later next day evening she wore a nice red dress and was excited and nervous. She prepared a speech of what she would talk to Harsh. She didn't wanted him to give an impression that she is desperate.

She entered clubzone and waiter asked her to have a seat. She selected a nice place that had a garden view. She saw Amit coming towards her.

Rima - "Hey Amit, is everything all right? Where is Harsh?" she had a spark in her eyes.

Amit - "Wow.. this is what I love about you. You are so beautiful. You eyes are the best in this world."

Rima - "Amit, what are you talking about? You are my best friend's husband."

Amit - "Well.. things are not working out between me and Sheela. You are the kind of person I want to be with" He tried to pull Rima's hand.

Rima - "Amit shut up... I can't date a married man! please understand I am very serious about getting married. I don't want to ride on a used car ........." She started running away from Clubzone and suddenly she ran on the road and there was a taxi passing by which had to apply harsh brakes. She feel down on the road and suddenly the driver came out and the passenger looked worried.

Taxi driver - "What mam.. why were you running out of a club like this.. are you participating in a marathon.. you could have been killed by a taxi.." He was annoyed. The passenger calmed him down and went towards Rima.

Passenger - "Hey are you okay miss. I am a doctor please get into the cab. My clinic is near by. I will apply some ointments to your arm"

Later after few days on Valentine's day...

Rima - "Hiii doc, do you know that today is the day when i will be stealing your heart."

Doctor smiled when he saw Rima with flowers and balloons and she dramatically was on her knees and she said

"I Rima... with all faith and consciousness is asking you Dr. Vikram.. will you marry me?"

Was it love by accident?? Or Love by chance?? What ever it is Rima kept her promise and she was in love by the V'day ! Just in time...

Invisible

Everyone wants to be in the center of attraction usually among their friends, family or colleagues. Mostly because they are happy about something or they want to share something. I sometimes wonder at times i used to hide myself from the people. I never wanted people to notice me or think about my existence. This feeling of being 'invisible' dominates people when they get hurt in a relationship. Broken hearts and the pain they feel might be invisible to others but if you undergo that pain you will realize how much painful it is.

After being together for 2 years romance seemed to be ceasing out of Julie's life. She was very happy with Rajesh but things didn't work out as she thought. After trusting him far long, he ditched her saying that his parents are unhappy with this relationship. The truth was he wanted a change. Rajesh was a kind of a guy who wanted to fall in love just to experience the feeling of love and he was coward enough to take the hard rocky paths and fulfill the desire of his partner.

Meanwhile, Julie had a hard time convincing herself and Rajesh that this relationship would work. She needed a chance to talk to Rajesh's parents and set this problem. But poor Julie was unaware of Rajesh's evil intentions and she thought he was backing off to give respect to his parent's feelings. One night she called him and had a conversation about their relationship.

Julie: Rajesh, where do you think this relationship is going?

Rajesh: Julie, I have told you to move on and I can't do much as my parents are sentimental about it.

Julie: But i will prove to them that I can be a best daughter in law.

Rajesh: I am sure Julie you are the best. But believe me they are not in a mood to listen to your name.

Julie: Can I talk to them ? Just once. I promise i will try not to beg or cry in front of them and respect their opinion about you.

Rajesh: Why do you want to give them more pain? They are from a small village and they can't survive if people are talking bad about me, marrying some girl from a different caste.

Julie: Rajesh, you could have not proposed to me if you already knew they were not going to approve it. Don't u want to fulfill your promise of living together... whatever happens you were going to make it right.

Rajesh: I tried my best Julie.. who would want to loose a girl like you.. but i have some responsibilities towards my parents and I am their only son. I am sure you will find a guy who can take care of you much better than me..

Julie started crying again and she couldn't sleep the rest of the night.. successively for 2 days and nights her mood was low and she was being suicidal. Rakesh had adviced her to forget about him and not talk to him for some days if that would heal anything. Julie couldn't control her emotions and she decided to write an email to him and later commit suicide.

I am not supposed to love you,

I am not supposed to care,

I am not supposed to live my life

wishing you were there.....

I need to hide 'me' from myself,

So that you find someone for yourself,

In short you want me to be the invisible girl,

Who once filled your life with lot of love...

I am finding a place to rest in peace,

And to hide from everyone in this world,

I was not supposed to contact you again,

All i wanted to say is I love you so much !!!

Rajesh was in a deep shock after he read this.. He couldn't believe that she was so much involved with him. By the time he wanted to call her, his father came to his room and read Julie's email. He felt very bad due to Rajesh's behavior. He demanded an explanation. He said he was really sorry for what happened but he expected Julie to move on. His father asked him to go immediately and get Julie to his place.

Rajesh hurriedly went to Julie's place and found her unconsciously lying on the floor. She had taken sleeping medicines just 10mins before he arrived. He called the ambulance and hurriedly took her to the hospital. She was rescued by the surgeons somehow but this whole incident had opened his eyes. First thing after she woke up he apologized deeply and told her he would never do anything to hurt her again! Rajesh's parents came to the hospital and met Julie. They really liked her alot !

Prompt - "invisible" by sunday scribblings

Note:- This story is fictional

Deja Vu - Part III

It is recommended that you read Deja Vu - I & Deja Vu - II for better understanding of this part.

Finally after having fun I got tired. Sakshi and other friends decided to have a drink and I planned to head over to my room. I was trying to unlock the door and I heard someone singing "Hamein aur jeene ki chaahat na hoti.. agar tum na hote" from the corridor. This is my favourite song and suddenly I saw Krish singing this song. I got scared and felt as if I was dipped in an icy cold swimming pool.

"Hi Krish" I said. I was still in the trauma. I was scrubbing my eyes to see if i am not seeing a dream. "Hey sweetheart. You know you are a big liar." He said. " What do you mean?" I trembled. "Oh please don't act smart. I know you don't believe me and that's why you are now avoiding me." I went inside my room but before i could close the door he pushed it and came inside. Then he did something which scared me a lot. He took my hand in his hand and said " Lets get married once we are done with this training". "Krish, I don't love you! Why are you forcing me to marry you" I screamed. He angrily broke a vase on the table and said " Because I am destined to be your husband". He pulled my hair and tried to kiss me forcefully. I realized that he was drunk and angry because of me lying to him. Before he did anything nasty my room mate came with bunch of other guys to my room and she started screaming. They caught hold of Krish and started beating him. He started yelling at sakshi "Hey, you are my sister how come you are allowing them to beat me.". "Just get lost you loser!" she said. She held me in her arms. He claimed that Sakshi was his sister in previous birth.

Krish started looking at me with those eyes filled with revenge, jealousy and lust. I got too scared to answer anything back to him. There was something in his eyes. A strong feeling which attracted me even at this moment. I don't know if it is appropriate now to call it as "Love". He kept staring my eyes until he was taken away to the police. I kept crying for couple of days. I guess I got too scared with all this happening in a short period of time. I called up my parents and narrated the whole incident to them on the phone. Within a week my father searched a suitable groom for me, with whom i met and arranged my wedding before I would complete my training in Bangalore.

I hugged Sakshi and thanked her for supporting me in this crucial moment of my life. I felt the tornado was over and I started to feel happy. A day before my wedding I met my prospective groom. Yes after all I was going to marry someone arranged by my parents. I still felt the chill inside my heart for not marrying Krish. Will I be happy with this new man ? Finally the D-day arrived with full joy and I met my relatives who made up to my wedding in a short notice. They definitely whined about improper arrangements but I was glad to see them.

After some ceremonies the time came for the nuptial knot. I closed my eyes but to my surprise I saw Krish infront of us. Yes very bollywood style. "Why did you come here?" I asked him with some courage. "Rani I can't live without you. How many times I have told you that i am your husband... believe me in all my previous births you were my wife.. how can i let you go this time?" He cried. I wanted to sympathize him but my father called bodyguards but Krish was in full form today. Nobody had the guts to stop the storm inside him. I managed to escape from that place and I was hiding in the storeroom. I started crying again !! Suddenly, I heard a distant voice "Rani.. Rani.. where are you".. I was going to scream but I managed to keep quiet .. the distant sound was more clear now.. "Rani.. get up.. what are you doing?".. I ignored the voice and started searching for the person who was calling me..

"wake up rani.. wake up.. are you okay?" I slowly opened my eyes and saw Krish infront of me.. I screamed.. "Help.. Help.".. "Relax dear.. what happened.. did you see a bad dream.. you seemed to be worried .." are you okay .. my husband held me in his arms and tried consoling me while I sobbed my dream away..

yes.. it was indeed a dream..My real dream !!

Deja Vu - Part II

It is recommended that you read Deja Vu - I for better understanding of this part.

After waiting for about a week, we got the results declared and I got selected for the job. I was so happy. On the same day I got an email from Krish.

Dear Rani,

I got selected for the job. I hope you are selected as well. Can't wait to talk to you about this !

Reply soon,

Krish

I replied him saying that I got selected as well. He added me in his chat list and slowly chatting with him had become my daily routine. He started coming close to me, I mean not physically. He requested if he can take me on a coffee date. I was not able to digest the fact that a stranger is

coming so close to me and trying to pretend that I am part of his life. I was not planning to go on a date with him so soon. I don't want to trust someone so easily in my life. I told him to not hurry up and rush things so soon. But his reply was "Hey, Its written in our fate. I am not hurrying up anything." I was shocked to hear this response. How can a matured guy like him could believe in something like this. We continued chatting on the messenger and sharing some exciting things. Day by day his possessiveness for me kept on increasing. One day when i came back from tailor's shop I found him chatting with my father in my home. "See his guts!" I told to myself. I just greeted him formally and said "Good to see you after a long time!".

"Krish is going to Chennai" My father said. Before he said where I was going I told him that they are sending me to Coimbatore. My father clearly saw that I lied to Krish but he didn't say anything. But he demanded an explanation later. I told him that I am taken aback from his frankness so I wanted to make sure if he is not a crazy guy. Krish ofcourse was disappointed with my posting to Coimbatore. But he didn't say much.

Finally, the day came where I was going to start my journey to Bangalore (Coimbatore for him). I was waiting with my luggage in the train station when he suddenly surprised me. I pretended as if nothing happened and I am fine with his gesture. But deep down in my heart I was scared. What if he is a psycho? I was just hoping that his train comes first and that happened. He left to Chennai in the train and tried to tell me that he will visit me in Coimbatore and if I like him as well. I kept quiet for that moment! I think it is my biggest mistake I don't know why but i behaved dumb in front of him. May be I liked him.. But I had a fear in my mind for him.. his possessiveness was killing me. Before leaving he grabbed my hand and said "Rani, this is just matter of couple of months. Then you will be with me forever. I am going to ask your father and marry you". I knew he was going to say all these.. Somehow I had this premonition but I didn't feel like telling him the truth that I got posting in Bangalore. His train came and he left.

My heart started beating fast. Is this the so called love? A guy comes talks to you, if he likes you he forces you to like him.. No that's not true. Meanwhile, I met a girl named Sakshi on the station who was in the same batch as me and I was in contact with her since the results were out. We planned to stay together in the same room. Sakshi was a modern girl with very few traditional values here and there. But she believed in practical life. When I told her about Krish, she just said "Oh I know these guys. I am sure he will get someone else in his batch and he might even forget about you." I didn't like this answer.. I felt there was a connection between me and him but even when i tried to force my brain to think I wasn't getting the answer. Deep down in my heart I felt guilty for lying to him.

My training started and in a week I almost forgot about him. It was sunday morning and I didn't see any email from him. I was upset. How can he forget me? Did he come to know that I lied to him? I kept on pondering about these things until Sakshi disturbed me. "Hey, lets go out for pubbing today ?" "No, Sakshi I don't feel like coming. You guys carry on". "Oh, so Mr. Krish forgot you. Is that bothering you now?" she asked me. "NO..not at all. I am totally fine" I said. "Then come with me it will be lot of fun. I promise." she said. I dressed up very nicely that evening. Our dress code was pink or purple. Yes.. truly girly..

To be continued in part III

Deja Vu - Part I

I was getting ready for the interview carrying my portfolio and wearing formal clothes. I had cleared a written test for the IT company and today was second day of group discussions, interviews etc. After finishing engineering joining a computer firm is the latest buzz in India. On my way to the company I forgot to grab my cellphone ! But it was too late to ask the Auto driver to go back to my home to get the phone. Moreover, I was too tensed to do anything like that. I even forgot to look into my mirror while leaving home. How will be the interviews today! My stomach started growling in tension. Within 30mins I reached my destination and after paying to the auto driver I saw there are around 500 people waiting for the interview sessions.

I was secretly hoping that there should be only 50 but I came to know they are going to hire 200 candidates today and planning to send them for training to Bangalore, Coimbatore and Chennai. I was very nervous and I had brought a little cheat sheet of mine to prepare in the last minute. I was practicing how I would talk to the interviewer and how to pick up the communication in the group discussion rounds. Finally, the interviews started and I did well in the Group discussion. I think the topic was "Further studies in America - Good or bad ??".

After the Group discussions, we waited for the technical round. I was now pretty tensed. I was sitting inside a conference room where they were calling each candidates for 30-40mins of technical interview. One guy came to me smiled as if I know him already. I told him 'Hi' he greeted back. I glanced at him, he was not that tall, athletic built but he was so handsome that he could give complex to Hrithik Roshan. Then I scolded myself for diverting my mind. He sat besides me and started telling me about his education, family etc. Then my name was called and to my surprise the interviewer was a family friend of mine. But ofcourse there were couple of other people in the panel. I was able to answer my questions properly and later came to know that i got selected for the HR round. Meanwhile, that guy also cleared his interview. He seemed to be very happy. He sat besides me and said "Hi I am Krish. How about you?" I said "Hi, i am Rani". He said "Good luck for the HR round, make sure you clear that and then we can enjoy with the new job".. He asked for my phone number which I refused to give him. He took my email id and said he would like to know when the results are out and he wanted to keep in touch since we could be future team mates. My god guys these days are so fastttttttt.

After my HR round it was very late. It was around 9.30PM in the night and I was afraid how to get autorickshaws since in this part of the city it used to get lonely. But I saw Krish waiting near his bike. I went up to him to ask about his interview. He said "It was great! Hope I will be part of their company soon." Wow he had a great confidence on himself. I like confident guys, they help in restoring the positive energy. He grasped my fear of how to go home, and offered me a ride. I was puzzled 'How can a guy who barely knows me, is helping me here.' He saw me getting confused and said " Hey Rani, don't worry I am not a bad guy who takes advantage of a girl. You can call up your dad with my phone and make sure he knows about me." I did the same thing. He spoke nicely to my dad when he dropped me and my dad came to know that he is from the same caste as we are. However, this was not important to me. We exchanged smiles and he said "Bye". There was something in his eyes I noticed at that very moment. They were talking to me, saying something. But I ignored my inner voice and waved my hands at him. Then I went back to sleep! So much in a long day .. right?

To be continued....

Domestic Violence

Slam! He shut the door with a lot of force and it scared the hell out of Rebecca. Roger came from nowhere like a gusty wind and started shouting. "Rebecca.. Rebecca..." She was sitting near the window in her bedroom, lost in her thoughts like always. He saw that TV was on and then he went to the bedroom and saw Rebecca sitting lonely near the window and observing the road outside. Roger and Rebecca had married 2years ago and had a strong relationship built with trust. But as you guessed things were not going in the right direction. Robert went to sit next to her but she shifted to the edge of the room and gradually on the bed.

"What's the matter?" Roger asked with a commanding tone. She mumbled something. "Speak up then!" he said loudly. Rebecca looked at him with frightening eyes. "I know who she is.. I know you are having an affair with a lady" she said slowly. "Oh really! so you are a dectective now?" He smirked. " We may be a couple but I have a private life and no one has any rights to enter there"He said. "No, I am your wife and you can't do this to me"
"Ofcourse I can" He suddenly got up. " I can do anything I want" he suddenly threw a glass on the floor and made Rebecca to stand on those pieces. "ouch!" she cried in pain. He had a look in his eyes that frightened her. He pulled her hair and dragged her to the kitchen. " There is nothing in this kitchen. The frying pan is also empty and he started hitting the pan on her head" She was trying to fight back but she wasn't strong enough to resist. He banged her face to the dishwasher and threw her on the floor. She could feel blood trickling down from her forehead. In an attempt to fight back, she grabbed whatever was lying on the floor and started hitting him non stop. She brought the heavy flower vase and ...Bang!.. she hit him hard on his head. Things started looking blurry to her and she fell unconscious.

Next thing she sees is in a hospital lying on a bed. " She has seriously hurt her head and we are not sure if she would go to coma for some reason".. she heard doctors talking to the police. As she opened her eyes she was amazed to see that she is still alive! but where is Roger? Her eyes started frightening again and looking around for the monster. She asked the nurse and came to know that when she hit him with the vase it was so strong that it burst his head and he almost died on the spot. "So, I am safe and he can't hit me anymore?" she said crying. "Was that a regular thing Ms. Rebecca?" Police asked her. "He used to hit me everyday. But I don't want to talk about it now" she started crying. Police interrogated her and came to know that this case was another domestic abuse case.

After couple of years Rebecca married again and had kids. Her kids grew up and once she visited her daughter Michelle and found that she had bruises on her arm. "Where did you get these bruises from?" she asked Michelle. "Hmm well my boy friend .. he hit me" she said...

Well, it was happening again.. Domestic violence continues in one family or other.

Its time to say no to domestic violence. Stand up against it. It could be either man abusing woman or vice versa. You should stand up against to it and take action whatever possible.

P.S. This post is written as a part of Leo's Z-A writing challenge for the month of November.. for other posts visit this link

First Kiss

Things between Sushma and Suraj were not going right since long time. While dressing up for their wedding party that night Sushma was trying to think since when she went far away from Suraj's heart. They were in love and they got married after fighting against all odds. But since couple of years, there was lot of influences from both the families and she felt that she was drifting away from Suraj. She felt that things can never be right between them.

Since couple of years, they just never seemed to talk anymore with each other. They exchanged few words in a day like greeting good morning to each other, Suraj would read the morning newspaper before leaving to work and talk about any eye catching headline related to politics or bollywood and she would just nod her head in return. She felt that there is politics everywhere home, office and in the world. She faced problems with her in-laws since it was her 3rd wedding anniversary and she didn't conceive a child ! They suspected that she could never become mother and some of his relatives would make bad faces to her in other parties. After seeing all this she stopped visiting her in-laws and that made things worse between Suraj and her. Somewhere deep down the heart she respected and even loved her family but that love seemed to have lost somewhere.

Suraj, on the other hand was the only son in law in Sushma's family. He never got the respect he should have got in Sushma's family. Theirs was a love marriage and being from two different castes it was their decision to get married. Although, her family forcefully agreed for the marriage they never showed affection towards Suraj and it bothered him and his family. However, he always hoped that he can fix the relation between him and Sushma's family. But since couple of years, he seemed to be fighting with Sushma and even raised his hands on her infront of his parents once. He was slowly realizing how much pain Sushma was taking after marrying him. She lost her parent's affection, she didn't get the love from her in-laws and he was the only person in her life who could make her life better or worse.

His friends organized a lovely party for the couple in a small dinner cruise near the bay.

"We are goin to be late" he said while adjusting his tie.

"These shoes don't go with the dress I am wearing", she stared at her feet.

"I think they are fine" he said without even looking at her.

How can a relationship between two individuals change just in the matter of time? Has he really changed so much? Such thoughts started popping up in Sushma's mind.

She sat in the car silently, listening to a radio station which neither of them liked. May be its time to move on she thought. They didn't had any kids to worry about. May be because they never talked about kids, because somewhere in their heart they felt it wasn't for them.

They drove past to Ocean park near Harbor drive where a twinge of memory struck to Sushma. A sudden rush of emotions ran throughout her body like never before. She turned to Suraj to verify whether he is feeling the same, to her surprise he was smiling. He suddenly dropped his smile and stopped the car near the street. She thought the marriage that was held by a thread was about to end.

He walked past the trees and said "Sush, do you remember we had our first kiss in this park?" "We came to celebrate our graduation with other friends, you had lot of beer that night." she said.

" Suddenly, I planted my first kiss on your lips and i felt like imaginary rose petals showering on us". He said

"Come here my love. On the occasion of our 3rd marriage anniversary I want to kiss you like never before. I want to show you my stash of unlimited love & affection". Suraj said.

"Suraj.. I always loved you.. But I don't know where our relationship is going now.." Sushma started crying like a baby.

"Don't cry Sush. I am your culprit. I have decided to show you the brighter side of this marriage. You have left your family, your world and came to my family. You trusted on me so much. So hold on to it. I Suraj, promise you today that you will never cry because of me anytime in your life."

Image Courtesy

They paused for a moment. They looked into each others eyes deeply and saw within each other what they hoped and longed to see for so long. Suraj held Sushma in his arms and planted his kiss again at the same spot. Snow flakes started to fall on them as they kissed.

P.S. This post is written as a part of Leo's Z-A writing challenge for the month of November.. for other posts visit this link

The Valentine mystery

Rajshri climbed the steps and hurried through the hallway of her high school. She was in 12th std and was studying in a posh boarding school in Nainital. It was her final year of the high school and she was sad since the board exams were approaching soon and she has to leave her friends. As she approached her locker to take her books she found a pink envelop sealed with a heart stuck on the locker door.

She was confused. She pulled out the card carefully and found a valentine's greeting card. Valentine's day was round the corner but she wasn't really expecting a card like this. The card was addressed to her as "My favorite Valentine". She removed the heart shaped sticker stuck to the envelope and saw the card. It was very beautiful and seemed hand made.

Worshiping you now and even in future. I am your secret admirer. Wait for the gift box coming soon to you !

No way, she said. I don't know if someone loves or worships me she thought. She was going to keep the card back when she heard "Rajshri". It was her best friend Piyu. "Hey piyu, come we are late for the class" she said. Piyu took her books from the locker and than Rajshri handed over the card to Piyu. Piyu was startled.

"What is this? Favorite valentine?? secret admirer?? wow.. i am soo jealous of you !!" Piyu said.

"who is this secret admirer? is the mystery resolved yet??"

"No, i have no idea who this is. do you know?" Rajshri questioned. "Wow you are lucky mam. You have a worshiper now. Just pray to god that he is not that silly guy in our biology class who can't pronounce Amoeba." they both started giggling and went to attend their class.

Rajshri forgot about the card momentarily and focussed on her class. It was lunchtime and she went to cafeteria with Piyu. "Its got to be a guy from one of my classes" She said while picking up her burger and chips.

"Can you guess who is it" Piyu asked. She lifted her juice and stared thoughtfully towards her burger " Well Ashish is one suspect who is with me in chemistry lab. He always stares me whenever i am in the lab. Anil is in two of my classes and he smiles at me most of the time mysteriously. Guru is another guy who always tries to approach me with one or other reason." Her mind got into an infinite loop which tried to pick each guy from her class and analyse their behavior towards her.

This mystery puzzled Rashri so much that she couldn't concentrate on her music class, sports class and rest of the evening. Next morning Rajshri got up and went to school. The bell rang as soon as she entered the class. She was wondering where to sit when Anil came towards her with a pen.

"Hi Rajshri, I forgot to return you this pen yesterday." he said.

"You can have it if you want. I have many pens" She said and found a seat to sit down for the class. "That's the thing i like about you. You are nice hearted girl. By the way you look fabulous today" he supplied.

"Anil would you mind to answer one of my question?" she removed the card and handed over to him.

"Why would you give a card to me?" she asked. By the time he could answer math teacher arrived in the class with a surprise quiz. She opened her book and observed Anil going back to his seat. She was convinced that he was not the one.

Later that day, she was going to her biology class when Guru stopped her. " Did you get my message?" he asked.

"Oh my god, Guru it was you ??" she was shocked to find out.

"What??"

" I mean the envelop, the message .. secret admirer" she said with a meek voice.

" No. I had told Piyu to tell you that I couldn't get the book you wanted to study from the library. Someone already has a hold on that book." he said with a weird expression.

"Hmm.. i guess she forgot"

"I have asked the librarian to get an extra copy since exams are approaching."

She cancelled Guru from her suspect list. By now she had narrowed down two people and she was afraid if it was Ashish who gave her the letter.

Rajshri entered her class and took her favorite seat from where she can stare her crush. Yes.. she had a huge crush on Ankur who would never talk to her or even have an eye contact. He was very shy and she loved that. Ashish approached to her and asked if he could sit with her. Surprisingly she saw a box lying on the desk where she sits.

She carefully examined the box and looked at Ashish with "What-is-this-Ashish" kind of expression.

"Hey I just came to ask you if you want to be my lab partner in chemistry" he was confused too. "Sure" she said with a smile for the reaction he gave. She opened the box and she got hit softly on her face with a heart that was residing inside the box. She found it very cute. This one was hand made as well. She totally loved it. There was a note inside.

"Hey i love you miss. Would you mind coming with me to the shimla trip once we are done with the exams? and yea can you be my chemistry lab parter :)"

There was a smiley in the message and she hated him for that. It was just like those messages that indirectly want to laugh on your curiosity. She just realized Ashish asked her the same question. She immediately ran to Ashish who was going out for a break. "Whom did you mention about me being your lab partner?" he was puzzled and he said "well i was telling it to Ankur, yesterday". She felt so happy.

'Thanks Ashish, you made my day' She said and went inside the class. She saw Ankur carefully taking out his book from the bag and refusing to look towards her.

"Hmm.. excuse me!" she tapped on his desk.

"Hey" he said quietly, staring back in his book.

" I just wanted to say that I loved the card and I loved the punch" She mocked the expression of the punch and then She pulled out a chair besides him.

He raised his head quickly and blushed furiously " How did you know it was me?" he asked.

"I didn't until just now. Don't ask me about that. I have a huge crush on you and didn't know that you were interested in me." she said making him to blush more.

"Yeah.. i hate being shy. I was carrying that card with me since two weeks but didn't had the nerve to give it to you. But I just couldn't do it." he said.

She took his hands and clutched into hers. "Don't worry. Now you are in a safe hands" she said and winked.

Needless to say, she was very happy indeed for two reasons - one she found out the whole valentine mystery and two it was 'Ankur' whom she already liked !

Sea Sickness

Since childhood i suffered from acrophobia and of late i came to know that I have developed sea sickness as well. I would rather say I was scared of going into the ocean or a sea, 'sea sickness' was just a hi-fi term i used to cover the actual fear. But one day I thought its now or never. So, in order to overcome my phobias I signed up for a snorkeling tour with my friends in the summer vacation.

We headed towards our boat. The captain asked me if I had a problem with sea sickness. "I don't know", I told him. The waves were crashing across the bow of the ship. Okay, I was terrified right at that moment. I saw the sky, it was clear and sunny that afternoon. After sometime the Captain started the engine and soon in a short while we went into the ocean. All my friends were busy in taking pictures but I was carefully monitoring the ocean waves and the water. It was all blue everywhere ! The sky, the ocean .. wow it was really amazing to see the nature like this. It was the time to get into the water for doing some underwater adventure.

My friends started putting the snorkel gears and diving into the water one by one. It was my turn now. The captain saw me and said " Aren't you going inside? It is totally a different world !" He said with excitement. I told him it was my first time snorkeling. He assured that I am going to love it like anything. I prepared myself mentally to dive into the water. I was feeling a kind of rush inside me before diving. It's a mixture of fear and excitement. It's a feeling of not knowing what is under my feet, inside the water. I was experiencing the same thing before my first dive in the ocean that removed my phobia from my life. The captain gave me a all clear sign and I plunged into the water.

Bubbles swirled around me. I started scanning the area around me. Its all blue and beautiful. I have seen this in many movies and many videos. A group of small fishes passed besides me like a stream of bullets. I could see their scales clearly and even touch them. They were quickly disappearing in the underwaters of the vast ocean. Wowww.. I got excited by looking at them. My friends were ahead of me. They were enjoying and taking pictures. I saw the aquatic plants like red algae. I saw the sea horses at some distance. The ocean was very calm today.

Image Courtesy - Deviant Art

I was loving each and every moment I spent under the water. I opened my hair and let it flow freely. I felt like I don't have any tensions in my mind now. I felt weightless inside the water and I started swimming everywhere and touching the rocks. The slight bits of the underwater plants were touching my skin giving a tickling sensation. I heard a slow continuous humming sound above me. I saw the shadow of the ship that was passing on the water surface. More fishes appeared in front of me as they swam out of some long sea grass.

The captain had told us not to touch the big fishes or do something crazy near the aquatic animals. It was the time to head up to the boat. The captain had a rope which my friends used to go up to the surface of the water. I was so happy to finally overcome my under water phobia ! Yayy I felt like I have conquered the water kingdom.

I can never forget this wonderful day. I thanked the Captain for encouraging me and I was happy that I joined my friends for this wonderful short underwater trip that wiped out my fears/phobias. Sometimes we need to fight back with ourself in order to achieve the unachievable.

This post is written for Thursday Tales

The Final Destination

This post has been published by me as a part of the Blog-a-Ton 15; the fifteenth edition of the online marathon of Bloggers; where we decide and we write. To be part of the next edition, visit and start following Blog-a-Ton.

23rd Sept, 2006

The train is whistling to start, alarming the people to get on to the train. I am running to catch the train standing on the platform. The suitcase is banging against my leg and it is hurting. But apparently I am not in a situation to miss this train. I am finally on the train and trying to catch my breath now. There were lot of trees near the station.. It almost looked like a scenic location created just to shoot movies. The station looked empty but suddenly I see an angelic face of a woman trying to catch the train... OHH ! wait she is trying to reach me. "Harish.. Harish.. I am sorry...Plz don't go away !"... My dream fades away.. I woke up.. NOOO ... not again...

I have been seeing this dream since past few days. I don't interpret my dreams usually. But this time I am puzzled. Why am I seeing this unknown train station every now and then in my dreams. I have never been to this train station... and who is that lady trying to reach me? I don't have any woman in my life. I woke up with all these questions in my mind.

1st Nov, 2006

I met this woman in a party organized by my newspaper agency. She looked fabulous with her Dior designer dress, Gucci purse and high heel sandals... My god she is beautiful. "She must be a model" I thought, since my company invited lot of models. We exchanged our phone numbers and then we danced that night ! Somehow i was getting attracted to this beautiful lady. There was a cool wind blowing on the terrace and her free flowing hairs were casting a spell on me.

1st Dec, 2006

I proposed to her .. I don't know her answer yet ! She said its too soon to propose her like that. Well what to say.. i was madly in love with her. I agree that i don't know about her background much but I don't want to know her past life details. But she insisted that I know about her first and then decide. I took her to Lonavala for my friend's wedding party bash !!!

3rd Dec, 2006 @4P.M

I was searching for her. The wedding ceremony was over and it was the time to take pictures on the hot wedding seat ... I wanted to take a picture with her hoping that she would say "Yes" to me.

"Yes.. yes.. I am very near to my goal" She said over the phone to someone.

"Seems like he changed his password, but i will try to get the information to you" She pleaded to the guy on the phone.

She was right there in my room, trying to access my laptop. I was working on a story that was going to unmask a famous politician. I had all the details of his black money accounts and other stuff that could wipe out his clean and clear public image. I was shocked and ran away from my room as far as i can. This girl is a spy and she might be armed, which means she can kill me. I wanted to run away from that place that very moment. But it is true that she loved me so much and cared for me. She knew that i was going to propose her again today.

With a dissappointed and dejected heart i took my suitcase and went to the nearby train station. There was a train already on the platform but it was whistling as if it is alarming people to get in... I started running fast towards the train and tripped on the stairs near the platform. But i stood up and caught the train just in time. But she was following me and she started screaming " Harish I love you.. please don't leave me.. I am in a trouble" But i didn't care much and didn't help her catch the train. Suddenly it struck to me, it is the same dream i am seeing since many days... she is the same girl who came in my dream.. now i was able to see my dream clearly.. I was on the same railway platform that was haunting in my dreams.. I took another train and came back on the same platform but she was not there.

I started walking towards the mile marker on the railway tracks..There were lot of trees near the station, making the railway station look all the more beautiful. I heard two people talking to each other from a near distance. I went near by.. I saw the politician talking to my girlfriend .. I got furious.. how can she cheat me for this guy.. But i heard their conversation...

"So, now he knows that you work for me" he said

"I love him.. ".. she said

" but now he is going to expose me and it happened all because of you" . .he said. He was holding a gun on her forehead.

"He was goin to propose to me.. and I didn't want to cheat him .. " she said.. Tears welled up in my eyes. I had started hating her and cursing my fate which brought us together.

"Girls like you don't have a personal life.. Don't forget your brother is my captive. ", he got furious by her reply.

" Kill me if you want.. but i am not going to cheat on him",she said

Suddenly an idea struck in my mind. I went slowly near him and hit him with my heavy briefcase.

Bangg.......... he fell down to the ground.. but unfortunately he was going to shoot my girlfriend and that trigger was now pointing to his chest.. HE WAS DEAD !!

I hugged her tightly and asked for foregiveness. She cried as well and said she was going to tell me the whole story but i was catching the train. Thank god i returned back to this station. The credit goes to my dream which kept showing the images of this railway station.

That's how this railway station became the FiNaL DestiNation in our life !

25th Dec, 2006

I got married with the love of my life. Well i guess you don't know her name yet.. introducing my wife... ANITA.

********** This is not an end.. its a new beginning *********

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Credits

Image - Alston Station by Wandering Soul

Courtesy - www.deviantart.com via www.blogaton.in