Chapter 37: chapter 37

37. A known Stranger!!!Next Morning.... At Malhotra Mansion...As a part of morning rituals Malhotras were having their breakfast together .... everyone was quite but something triggered Dhruv and he enounced out of the blue... Dad my Car is quite old.... it's been almost half an year I am driving it....So!! ....Mr.Malhotra asked in a serious toneSo I want a new one... Dhruv replied Dramatically...And for what !!!Mr.Malhotra asked again...Because it's been around a month and I am being regular to Office and do all works which are assigned to me seriously and working hard .....Dhruv justified....Mr.Malhotra mentally chuckled at his remarks but tried various ways to oppose the requested proposal as Dhruv was admanant on getting a new vehicle for himself...Ok fine which one...Mr.Malhotra asked defeated with a cute small smile...I want a TVS scooty .....blurted Dhruv looking towards Rishabh... actually an act of teasing him as he ditched him in the plan of accompanying him to the Club..... which inturn made him choke on his Coffee...Rishabh glared at him irritated as he knew he is teasing him now infront of Mom and Dad ...What!!...Mr. Malhotra asked shocked.. interrupting their inner thoughtsYes I want a TVS Scooty... Dhruv repeated...But what will you do with that you don't even know how to drive it!!.... he interrogated stating the fact..Oh don't worry Dad someone will driv....he said exaggerating the word drive...Dhruvi we are getting late hurry up.... Rishabh interrupted cutting him off...Wait Bhai!!! ...let me finish...Dhruv joined in...Dhruv get up...he said in a serious tone like a threat...Ok Bhai!! as you say but Dad please don't forget....I want a Scooty on my b'day...he asked again getting up mockingly with a wink...Excuse me guys!!! Rishabh said excusing himself from the embaressement... and ran behind Dhruv who was on the way to his room...Careful don't fight among yourselves...shouted Mrs.Malhotra from back...Malhotra Ji don't you feel suspicious about our boys....they are getting childish day by day.. ..complained Mrs.Malhotra kabhi Rishabh kuch kehta hai toh Dhruv rok deta hai, aur kabhi Dhruv kuch kehta hai toh Rishabh chup kara deta hai... (when Rishabh tries to say something Dhruv cuts him off and when Dhruv wants to say something Rishabh interrupts....)... she said bewildered wondering their strange behaviour nowadays....Koi secret toh hai sayad; lekin koi baat nahi....( Even I suspect a secret...but don't worry)... As far as I can see them smiling like this everything is fine with me....Mr.Malhotra replied with a chuckle adding fuel to Mrs. Malhotra's suspecion.... looking at his boys running after each other and throwing cushions amongst them...At Conference Hall....So Guys as we all know about out new venture on Real Estates !!!I would like to state further..... Rishabh continued with his presentation in a cold Professional Bussinessman tone... while all the staffs listened attentively to him alongwith Mr Batra who is supposed to be the Chief Investor..... Although through the sides of his eyes he saw Sukh yawning sitting at the corner of the room...if anyone else would have been in her place he would have lashed upon the person but Sukh...he never could imagine to hurt her now; after knowing her...**if talking about today she slayed in a sky blue Salwar Suit with matching small earings and her hair open in silky straight strands....and we know our Rishabh is in an awweee.. of Sukh's open hair which she generally ties up in braids.....most interestingly everytime she dozed her hair strands covered a part of her face which she opt to quickly fixe when up...summing up she was giving a tough time to our Rishabh to maintain his sanity....** In pic Sukh's attire...Now I would like Anuj to continue with the proposal, being the second head of Architect department....he proclaimed Anuj to Continue and take over the Presentation and self went back to take a seat near Mr.Batra a place from where he can clearly watch Sukh .....Soon Anuj stood infront of everyone and continued... So this is the plot we have....and this is the area where we are going to ...... blabbering whatever he prepared infront of everyone....sounding a bit overconfident....So my friends I would like you all to present your views on it...and rate the idea on 5 rating scale....he asked all the Colleagues after his Presentation....boosted cocksure with his work....One by one everyone added their reviews...and most seemed to be convinced by the idea...while others gave mixed reviews...Sukh will you like to say something....enounced Anuj asking for her review but by that time she was already zoned out...Sukhi... said Malvika in an attempt of waking her up still no response...** as we all know our Sukh is a heavy sleeper**So Ms.Mehra would you like to present your views.... Rishabh asked a bit louder in an authorative tone.... breaking her sleep!!. everyone around laughed at it and she too was very embaressed with the inciedent...I hardly think you were able to catch anything but as per norms what is your call ... Anuj asked the question again...Bad Idea....!!! she blurted at a go still with a muffled voice.......Ohh so Miss.Mehra thinks it's a bad idea....So do you Care to elaborate....he said in a rediculing tone... disappointed with her answer.... **surely making Rishabh vexed with anger but he somehow maintained a poker face...fisting his fingers as his knuckles turned white....Sure!! she said getting up.... As you said the plot we have comes under industrial belt...so there is no use of making any amusement parks or malls there...  better we can make Apartments and Complexes....she suggested pointing at the Huge Screen... Anuj too was convinced himself with tue idea but out of complexes denied it....Ms Mehra are you hearing yourself...making Apartments there will be an add on expenses..Anuj tried justifying...It's a one time investment by my side moreover the plot is near NH so it will facilitate convenience and the people who will work on those industries will be most interested in buying plots so we may tag good recovery within a very short time.....she added another point much to his surprise....Anuj tried various ways to redirect her proposal but everytime she had a point with her which made her proposal more worth of investment....after a while of deliberation Impressive!!!.... Complemented Mr.Batra interveining the discussion...and soon everyone too joined....You all may proceed !!! gestured Rishabh to all his staffs to leave and everyone quitely oblised...Sukh was the last one to leave and fumbled with her stuffs out of nervousness as all the while Rishabh was glaring her...As soon as getting out and stepping to the executive floor... everyone clapped for her in appreciation...taking her aback...Thank you everyone.... Sukh responded smiling upon their act of motivation and went back to her desk....Anuj on the other hand stood at a distance with Lavanya looking down on her.... Don't get this act of appreciation get over your head...I assure you whatever anyone says Rishabh Sir is going to finalise my proposal... criticised Anuj before leaving...On the other hand.... I agree with the girl...industrial belt ke aas pass amusement parks or Malls banana sahi nahi rahega and if we use a part of it as Marriage Banquets as suggested by that boy...tab bhi convince issue will always be prevelant....no one will like to visit such remote places and as far as residence is considered... the girl suggested it well that via NH the problem could be resolved.... people will deal with the problem of they will stay there....Mr.Batra pointed out the major points of the discussion while Rishabh carefully audited...they continued reviewing the project ideas for around three quarter hour... Kyu Rishabh beta tum kya chahte ho...( So Rishabh what is your call) he asked for his opinion finishing up the conversation by his side...Aapko jo sahi lage Mr.Batra( I trust your opinion Mr.Batra...) afterall you are much experienced in the field...but I want to keep a back up for this ... 2-3 din baad jo final meeting hai baaki dusre Board Members and Investors ke saath I will present my final proposal there....waha baaki sab bhi honge that will be more appropriate..... (I will propose my final proposal in the meeting which is scheduled to held after a couple of days... infront of other board members and Investors...I think that will be more appropriate...) Rishabh comprehended closing his side of conversation adding a condition...Fine Rishabh take your time!!but I must say the way she deliberated her idea was really good...he said talking about Sukh... I meet her before as well ...I had an idea of her capabilities but today I thought she is carelessly sleeping at an important meeting... but trust me it felt great proven wrong today...I must say you have great bunch of staffs...Mr.Batra apprehended Rishabh..A warm smile appeared his face listening Mr.Batra complementing Sukh, as he knew he is not the kind of a person who can be easily impressed....Soon Mr.Batra and Rishabh left out of the Conference Hall drafting the basic idea and merged to executive floor for exit...as soon as the figures appeared infront of them everyone stood up...but our Sukh was busy typing down documents so didn't noticed them coming....Mr.Batra went near her desk and was overwhelmed seeing the beautiful idol of Umamaherwar she kept there... the moment she felt someone's presence around she stood up...  Sorry Sir I didn't saw you coming ..she said apologetically turning to him ...It's Ok dear don't worry!!!he exclaimed with a smile... Rishabh beta kaha se mila yeh heera tumhe...Good job beta achaa idea hai aapka.. (You are such a gem dear... Rishabh from where do you get one like her..you proposed a nice Idea dear...Good job!!) said Mr.Batra patting Sukh's head in appreciation and left...Rishabh followed him behind and after sometime returned with a frown ....Get me Coffe Ms. Mehra !!he ordered looking at Sukh and left....Puri duniya khush ho jaye, lekin yeh kabhi khush nahi hone wale humse....( I can make the whole world around me happy, but not him...) hume toh lagta hai puri life methi khate rahe hai yeh... ( I really feel he must have had all the bitter vegetables in all his life...) kabhi toh banda kuch acha bolde lekin nahi....ek toh karela... upar se neem chada... upar se baasi.. upar se 100 Rs/- kilo...(often you can be nice to complement someone but this guy!!.. never... He is just like a perfect mixture of bitter gourd added with Azaridacta that too keeping it for fermentation and selling it for 100Rs /- kg... ) jaldi ja Sukh Coffee leke warna phir call aa jayega abhi....( Be fast Sukh to get him his Coffe else he will call again...)she mumbled to herself pique by his behaviour as he didn't cared to appreciate her although everyone did...After a while Rishabh heard a faint knock on his cabin door and looked up to see Sukh with his Coffee...He gestured her to come in apparently in a calm way .... perplexed she stood infront of him and handled him his Coffe while her inner thoughts were...Abhi itne saant kaise hai yeh.. bahar toh kaafi naraz lag rahe thay... kahi yeh toofan se pehle wali shanti toh nahi hai.... Sanki ka kya bharosa; abhi cheekhne lagenga, ek kaam karo Sukh jaldi se Cup rakho, aur bhaago yaha se... ( how come he seems to be calm now..a while ago he was almost flaring with anger... isn't it the silence before the storm...who can trust an eccentric person like him.. before it's too late...Sukh just keep the Cup here and run away ASAP!!!)As she already made her mind...she tried striding out of his cabin whenSukh wait...his voice caught her off guard...biting her lips she turned towards him and... Yes Rishabh Sir...she replied innocentlyWhat was that....he asked seriously getting up...Sir your Coffee !!! just the way you like it....she blurted despite her answer awarded him a glare ....Shrugging her head looking at his reaction she conjoined Oh the review!!! wasn't it different...I am not talking about it.... He scowled again.... If it's not Coffee or the review tab yeh itne gussa kyu hai!!! aaj toh him takraye bhi nahi...( If it's not about the coffe or the review then why is he angry, I didn't even bumped with him today...)she mumbled questioning herself .. while he looked at her with mixed expressions trying to make out what is she saying ....Oh ..I am Sorry but I can't get you...she finally gave up and asked looking back at him...Sukh you were practically dozing half of the meeting ....he said sighing...So you were angry for so long because I was dozing...But it was me who gave the best idea...she rebuked a bit pissedBut that doesn't allows you to dream around...he justified in a cold tone...Well it's not my fault...that my Mr. Grumpy boss ordered me to prepare the essentials of the meeting at the last time...and called me two hours before the call time to prepare everything because he doesn't trusts his secretary on that.....and for this I had to skip my breakfast and...but he is nit wrong I am not expected to sleep between an important meeting...she thought to herselfI apologise!!....I think It's Ok and am glad no one is embaressed for that ...you don't need to flare at me for this...she said sarcastically mumbling the last part to herself looking at the ground....she looked disheartened and hurt as it was her eyes who spoke for her this time....I am not flaring!!! but you were...he tried joining in but stopped as he didn't wanted things to get worse and she already accepted her mistake so there was no point in exaggerating it....Sukh ....I know I have been the most rude guy around ...am so Sorry....he kept his thoughts to himself...it's alright!!...was all he managed to say.Come With me!!!he said getting up from his seat holding her hands....Where !!!she questioned...No questions!!! just come with me..he mandated and she oblised...they walked hand in hand through the executive floor while Malvika grinned sheepishly looking at them, there also stood Lavanya who broke the pencil she was working with frustrated out of enviousness....Rishabh took the passenger seat and instructed Ajay about the destination while Sukh took a seat at the back seat crossing her hands at her chest pouting angrily like a kid ... she although looked really cute doing that...After a silent drive of 30 minutes Rishabh's car halted outside a Terrace Cafe Triveni...Triveni!!!are we stepping in here...she asked in excitement as her mood changed within snaps...Yup !!he nodded in reply...Wow!!! after so long ...she sighed dreamily trolling her eyes around the place .... You know it's a beautiful Cafe and..she added when  I know...he exaperated unbuckling his seat belt...Obviously.... but do you know my College was around this place and we I mean Preet and me alongwith Jass sometimes use to gang up together to treat each other on our victories... although by contributing our pocket money...and.... she kept on narrating him the tale as he listened her amusingly and held her hands escorting her to the table at the VIP section....Rishabh pulled the chair for her to sit but she misunderstood it and Sorry...she said between her blabbering session..He was surprised will be an understatement ....but moreover confused with her actions...She went to the opposite chair and he hurried to pull that too... Not again I am going to sit here...she reposted..I know that dammit, that's why....he stopped...Ohh so you were pulling chair for me...she conferred taking the seat while he sat opposite to her...Ofcourse!!! that's chivalry ...he exclaimed..But you didn't needed to...she said shrugging off her shoulders... You know a guy pulls a chair for either it's date or wife.....she added reasoning outExcuse me!!!... Rishabh asked shocked looking at her, mentally chuckling at her remarks...No ..nothing..!!she stammered placing a finger on her lips; Sukh can't you keep your mouth shut sometimes...she mumbled to herself... as realised the awkwardness that aroused with her statement....Soon a beautiful girl came to them asking for their orders battling her eyelashes at Rishabh who didn't even cared to look up at her...Ask the lady!!he remarked...Sure Sir!!!she replied with a fake smile...I am not going to order...it's your treat right!!! then you are going to treat me with the delicacies you like and that's a rule....she opposed raising an eyebrow to him in a matter of fact like tone...Fine!!he replied smiling amused with her antics.... and ordered a Chocolate Lava Cake with Caffe late... alongwith some French Fries and other snacks .... and dismissed the girl who hopefully looked at him pleading for a look by his side....she didn't even cared to look at Sukh then left taking the order...She understood that the Girl was affectionately attracted to him so thought of teasing him and thus continued...Tussi itthe hamesha aande oh!!!(do you come here often..) she stated initiating the conversation...much to his astonishment...Huh!!! he asked surprisedDasso ji tussi itthe hamesha aande oh!!!she asked againUmmmm... Yes I seldom come here...he answered after thinking about a while...but Sukh why are you speaking in Punjabi...he asked perplexed..Kyu!! tussi vi tah Punjabi oh tuhanu gal ni karni aundi Punjabi ch... ( Why are you being astonished even you are Punjabi...don't you know how to speak it...) she stated in a matter of fact tone..raising her brows in amusement...Aundi aa but...(I know but...)he tried reasoning but was cut off by her .toh bus phir let's continue!!she remarked smiling..ohnu jande oh!!( Do you know her!!!) she asked again...Kinnu jande Oh!!...(Whom are you talking about ....) he questioned back not knowing the person she was talking about...are ohi kudi je sade table cho aayi si.... Kitne pyaar naal tuhanu vekh rahi si Oh... Kudi ta tota si, bilkul sirra.... (I am talking about the girl who just came to our table...she was looking yo you with so much affection...I must say she is very beautiful... epitome of beauty...) she comprehended about the girl....Tah...(So....)!!! He comprehendedTah ki...tussi ohnu akh chuk ki vi nahi vekhya...so rude...(So what...you were so ignorant that you didn't even looked at her...) she complained...Achaa tah ki karda main..( So what should I have done.. ) he enteated againTah!!!...ummm...Achaa ji ek Gal dasso..tussi teh abroad padhe oh. ... tussi kade kisi chiti kabotri nu ni takiya... ( Oh ummm.tell me something...you went to study abroad tight so didn't you ever seen a beautiful girl as your girlfriend...) She quered casually making him ambushed...Never...he replied in a low tone smilingPapiya Sapiya bhi ni liti...(you didn't even kissed someone...)she pumped up...No...he stated already started blushing..Jhappiya Sapiiya vi nhi payi..( you didn't even hugged anyone...) she asked again raising an eyebrow in a teasing tone....Nahi Sukh...kade vi nahi..he replied embaressed in an attempt of letting go off the topic...Fir ki fayda Gabru hon da.. Sunny Deol wangu Gussa teh biceps liye firde Oh!!!naam dubata... ( What's the use of being a handsome guy then...You carry temperment and biceps like Sunny Deol and still never dated a girl...added disgrace in your name....)she comprehended in a funny tone making Rishabh chuckle st her antics....He had seen girls swooning over him...he had seen girls being jealous and fighting amongst them ....But the girl infront of him now is different from others in every way possible, here she was asking him about his past affairs ...he knew when he is with her usko kisi dikhave ki jarurat nahi hai( he doesn't need to show off)... uske samne he is ready to be trolled as she is not going to put him down or take it in a wrong way ....he was adoring her authenticity her loud laughter smiling along...Just then the same girl arrived and placed their orders infront of them...and soon went back..Achaa ji tussi dasso te hun kar la...( If you feel I have put on a disgrace by not dating any girl then I can do it now... if you say so....)he whispered to her mockingly...after she leftHun ki fayda kabutri toh fadak gayi hath cho...next time kar li koi chakkar nahi....( What's the use of doing it now...the girl slipped away from your hands...better luck next time...you never know...) she redirected the conversation now focused on the food...She served the food first to his plate then to herself and was about to munch over it....when he pulled her nose playfully turning it red....She looked up at him surprised...but looking at him smiling back to her she gave up on the idea of arguing back...Chalo now have your breakfast!!! Rishabh instructed and they looked back at their plates attempting to hide their emotions...Haan ji !!!but how do you know that I skipped my breakfast...she asked again....Khurrana Aunty called me and she was going berserk over me!!!! informed Rishabh sighing...Oh that's why you were angry and carrying a frown...she analysedJi Sohneyo!! inna gussa sahi nahi..(My dear this kuch of anger is so good)...she said teasing him sipping her Coffee looking at him....I have many reasons to be angry Sukh...he mocked and sipped through his Coffe too....They were enjoying their breakfast but to their dismay Kaushik arrived there with a girl with model like figure in his arms....He saw Rishabh from a distance as way already moving out of the place but to irritate him he went there to ruin his day...Oh Hii... Rishabh ... enjoying your date...he commented in a weird tone...Kaushik!!! it's a public place and it would be better if you just mind your own business, I don't want to create a scene here... Rishabh warned...It's Ok!! bro.... chill even I don't want to create a scene here was just passing by you so thought of greeting you Hello...he said raising his hands in surrenderHey!! meet her, she is Natasha...My.. fling...he introduced keeping his arm around her waist... she wore a revealing dress which exposed most of her skin and reached his mid thigh, the girl smiled wickedly looking at Rishabh....He was clenching his jaw to control his anger...his knuckles turning white he was about to get up to punch him hard when Sukh held his right hand which was kept on table as she knew what could be the outcome of his rage.... His anger melt with her magical touch and he maintained his composure..Isn't this Guy the Billionaire Rishabh Malhotra....the girl commmented in a seductive voice... Yes Baby he is my ex-friend Rishabh..!! Kaushik commented his words full of venom..and eyed Sukh with hatred...but who is he with... The girl is so pretty by the way... She must be a gold digger looks like she lacks basic table manners.... flavor of month I guess....The girl blurted out commenting on her character making him more angry...His anger was reaching on its peak with her every word thus he stood up from his table... holding her hands...Comeon Sukh ...he bidded gritting his teeth and dragged her out if the placeSir but ...S...Sir....she tried asking but all in vain as in no time they were out of the Cafe in his car....This time both Rishabh and Sukh sat on the back seat....but this time their drive was filled with an awkward unknown bitter silence and unsaid thoughts running in mind...How dare they bad mouth about her ...I will ensure that......... How dare they say...he cursed Kaushik and the girl under his breath; if it has not been Sukh at that place he would surely have knocked him down...In the other hand Sukh too was lost in her own world staring outside the window...Where are you lost at...he asked Sukh after a while glancing at her...Nothing...why am I bothering you..she replied irritated still looking away....Don't you ever talk to me in this tone do you get that...he rebuked looking at her..Obviously the Greater Grumpy Rishabh Malhotra can't take it when it comes to him....she mumbled but enough for hom to hearBe a bit louder Sukh...he orderedFine you called for it...she answered turning to him...First you called me early by two hours without any reason... second you pulled my nose, next you took me to a decent Cafe but didn't let me finish my food .....words gushed out from her mouth...Huh!!! he asked shocked..Ofcourse I loved the cuisine and you didn't let me finish it....I was really enjoying it....she complained..and you are forgetting about your bruised hands...he mumbled looking at his wrists which are embarked with his finger's marks and now are in red and indigo coloured..Now you should be louder!!!she pouted..Sukh seriously are you listening to yourself, you are sounding like a 5year old kid who lost his favorite toy...he satirized....Now I am sounding like a five year old kid and the way you behaved was it mature enough..did you forgot that you have a reputation to protect..what if you would have hit him in anger ....people would have questioned you....and aapko yeh baat hamse jyada ache se pata hai....Ek baari Sunny Deol kya keh diya you took it so seriously ki angry young man ban gaye within snaps.... ( I casually called you Sunny Deol but you took that so seriously that you actually turned into angry young man within snaps) she voiced upYup right I must have not reacted, didn't you heard that they were talking S**t about you ...Sukh...he said justifying his reactionThat's what my point is...they were not worth your reaction but nahi aapko sirf gussa karna aata hai aur bus .....aapko pata hai aapka dimaag kharab ho jata hai when you are angry...she said nearing him pointing finger and her arm on his shoulder much to his amazement...That was the first time she freely expressed her anger to him...leaving no room for him to say something so.... Sukh kya tum aaj ladne ka mann bana ke aayi ho!!!( Sukh have you already made up your mind to be indulged in a fight with me...) he asked changing the topic...Aaj se pehle toh itna gussa kabhi nahi hui tum ...Kya hua hai aaj tumko...(you have never been this angry before, what is wring with you today...)S.. Sorry Sir...I didn't wanted to....she said getting back to her seat moving a bit away from him...Sukh itna toh hum bhi jante hai why are you behaving strange I know something is bothering you but it's fine if you don't want to tell me...tab batana jab tumhara mann kare abhi ke liye yeh bahana sahi hai!!! ( Sukh I know you are trying to hide something but it's Ok!!!you may reply according to your ease I will not force you....) he mentally stated thinking she is not going to tell him the reason behind her behaviour...After being quite for a while ... She fixed some loose strands of her hair behind her ears and... Aisa kuch nahi hai Rishabh Sir....woh aaj Sab...Ghar pe kisi se baat nahi ho payi aur ... Agar koi apna koi bewakoofi kar de toh aisehi Haq se ladai ho jaati hai humari unse....( There is nothing like that Rishabh Sir actually I couldn't speak to my family today and when someone who belongs to me do any stupidity I happen to indulge into a fight with them that to with all self proclaimed rights...) she comprehended innocently keeping her eyes down..Oh so you mean tum apna samajhti ho hume....(So it means you consider me to be yours...) he teased feeling ecstatic with her reply...I didn't mean that....she replied pressing her lips against each other her face blushed red...Sir we are here!!... announced Ajay interveining their Conversation...Thank God for saving me from being embaressed.....she mentally thanked God and hurried to get out...Thank you Ajay...she said stepping out of the car as he followed her to the elevator grinning like a Cheshire cat ...Sukh answer toh deke jaao ( Sukh answer me before leaving...) ...he asked again getting down of the elevator as they reached executive floor,from back making her stop in tracks...Haanji bilkul apna samjhte hai aapko hum, aap humare apne boss hai....( Ofcourse I consider you my own ...you are my own boss...) she chirped happily ... he sighed in disagreement and was about to say something more but she ran inside ....Later that Afternoon in Rishabh's Cabin :It's not fair...,!! complained Dhruv...Ofcourse it is....!! Rishabh justifiedNahi this is not fair how can you be so partial bhai....or is it because I teased you today infront of everyone....he continued with his tantrums..he exchanged some words angrily as was into a serious argument with him...Dhruvi you very well know I am not being partial ... stated Rishabh in a consoling toneYes you are... I worked so hard for this project and now you want me to join you in other one of yours...Dhruv described ...Well that's good for you as you are almost done with that one ... Rishabh reasoned out...But bhai I wanna continue that... Dhruv said shrugging off the proposal..Dhruvi I am not taking away your desires...it's just that the deal which you want to....Wait...I know you... You are saying all this just because you are scared ... I know last time you dealt with land projects you failed....but that doesn't mean you will not move on, see we all do mistakes and it's not a big deal..I don't want you to run away like this.... Rishabh explained and confronted him on his fear catching him off guard...Fine if you say so I will be in this but with a condition...he said understanding but stating a conditionWhat..asked Rishabh sighing..You are gonna drop me from Office today...and I am gonna drive..Dhruv prompted with a mischievous smile...Fine!!! Rishabh replied going through the files as he was heading towards the next meeting...and wait you will accompany me to the Club tonight....he addedNever...he rejected.If your answer is never then I am backing off...Dhruv threatened..Ok Fine.... Rishabh agreed defeated infront of him..Fine then see you in the evening..Dhruv excused himself sounding content as finally his wish was fulfilled...  Rishabh smiled to himself looking at his younger brother who still refuse to beleive he is grown up now....least responsible but so caring....Dhruv on the other hand was heading to his department when saw Sukh and Abhimanyu talking over something....Hey guys what's up...he greeted...Hii Dhruvji...they both said in unison..Dhruv Sir look at her she doesn't want to be a part of the land project.. conveyed AbhimanyuSukh is it true!! You never say No to any work so why this time...he asked raising an eyebrow ..Umm..Yes Dhruvji I denied it this time... actually I just proposed an idea and trust me I don't have any experience in this type of work...Sukh reasoned outLet it be Sukh afterall it's bhai who is going to decide the team tomorrow why to worry about...said Dhruv shrugging off the topic of discussion..I guess you are right but Dhruv ji you here..she asked him joining in giving up the deliberationyes was just indulged in a serious discussion with bhai..Dhruv divulged..Serious discussion!!!...she asked confused...Yep I wanted bhai to gift me a guitar on my upcoming birthday...he changed the topic as saw Rishabh coming towards them....He halted on his tracks listening a part of their discussion as he wanted to hear her reaction...he knew it was just to irritate him but for no reason he wanted to be trolled today again...Guitar...you mean you are going to play guitar and sing along...she asked bombshelled..Yes Sukh !!! I know I am very talented but you don't need to be so shocked with the fact...he hyped himself..I am not shocked I am scanadalised ...Dhruvji don't mind my words but you sound like a dying moaning Cow when you sing and bursted into laughter and soon Dhruv and Abhimanyu too joined her....Rishabh although wanted to join them but stood a distance away admiring the moment and cherished the happy faces infront of him....Clearing his throat after a while Rishabh stood infront of them and both Abhimanyu and Dhruv went back to their respective workplace after greeting him...Sukh I am heading out for the meeting and will return within evening !!!he informed...Sure Sir these are the essentials you asked for..he said handling him some files..Sukh one more thing can you please check on my guests by the time I return he is supposed to reach here early evening... he is very dear to me....I will join you guys atter a while....he asked for helo...Sure Sir.....she replied with a smileThank you Sukh... See you in the evening...he said bidding Bye..See you in the evening Sir best of luck for the meeting...she wished backThe rest of the day went in a blur dealing with loads of work and deadlines and soon it was evening...Sukh impatiently waited for Rishabh's guest to arrive as it already the scheduled time but he informed that he will be take some more time to reach there....thus she instructed Arpita the new receptionist to inform her on his arrival and be in-charge of his hospitality as he is a special guest...and self went back to the executive floor for completing some pending work....After around 45 minutes Arpita informed Sukh of his arrival thus she left for greeting him...She knocked the door of the visitor's room and barged in hearing a faint come in from the other side...Hello Sir...I am Sukh....she comprehended introducing herself but went numb seeing the figure infront of him...Before him stood a handsome guy in a blue tuxedo who was sipping through Coffee and looked decent...She stared the guy with unknown emotions which were really related to affection and adoration mixed with surprise and delight with a tint of anger... Pic above is Nishant Shergill...Hii I am Nishant Shergill...nice to meet you.... introduced the guy getting up keeping his Cup aside breaking her trance of thoughts...Sukh tried to open her mouth to say something but no words came out...Hey Nishant Bhai how are you buddy...Dhruv too barged in without knocking as his usual habit much to escape her from the weird situation....and embraced Nishant in a bone crushing hug...Hey big guy!! How are you!! Nishant exclaimed smiling...Very Good bhai what about you how have you been!!! Dhruv questioned back...I am Super Fine!!!he joined in ..Hey Sukh meet Mr.Nishant Shergill....he is Rishabh Bhai's friend and owner of Shergill Enterprises... introduced Dhruv..Hii. Ms.!! Nishant approached taking a step close to her her but she took a step backH..Hello...she stammered replying...Rishabh Sir sent me to inform you that he will be here within a while...should I get you something...she said in a go looking down at the floor...No it's alright... Nishant replied sternly amazed with her reactionDhruv ji you guys carry on... excuse me....she said and escorted herself out of the place as she felt suffocated in there...Who is that girl asked Nishant as she left... Isn't she beautiful ..he teased ...Dhruvi!!! he said narrowing his eyes...Ok ..Ok ..I got you ...She is Sukh she is my friend, we used to be in College together and here she works as an Executive Marketing Manager....Dhruv explainedOh she is his friend it means she is not the person I am thinking her to be...and if it would have been her she would have shouted at the top of her voice or slapped me hard across my face after knowing whatever had happened in past... I self can't overcome the embaressement how can I expect her to maintain sanity when she will see me.... It's definitely not her...he analysed keeping his thoughts to himself..Nishant bhai where are you lost... Nothing important..You tell me more about your life... Nishant redirected the Conversation...Sukh on the other side went jittery impatient looking at him she just wanted to run away from there... as it was already time for the shift to get over she grabbed all her stuff and hurried out...Sukh aaj ghar, itni jaldi !!!( Sukh you are all set to leave so early!!!)Malvika tried calling her to ask why is she leaving so early than her usual time today as she walked past her ... but she was lost in her own trance and didn't replied her...She was about to reach the exit when she bumped into Rishabh...I am Sorry!!!she apologized without looking up and hurried to move away...Sukh are you Ok!! called Rishabh holding her arms...Rishabh Sir!! She said releasing a breath she was holding for quite too long now feeling suddenly relaxed....Sukh are you leaving now...he askedYes Sir my shift is over ... Khurrana Aunty called and she was sounding tensed I got to leave a bit early today ...she lied to him for the first time still not looking into his eyes as she stucks at it...Sukh are you Ok...it seems like you just cried..why are you eyes so red...he asked concerned looking at her...It's nothing I guess a speck of dust is stuck into my eyes...it will go out don't worry!! she suspended the conversation..Do you really feel it's Ok Sukh !!! Ok let it be ...For now come with me I want to introduce you to someone...he proposed..No Sir it's urgent I got to go please!!her voice was broken and sounded pleading...You don't need to say Please Sukh you can leave I am not forcing you...let me drop you I don't think it's Ok for you to drive now...he proposedI am Ok Sir...I just want to go now...and your guest has already arrived and he is with Dhruv Sir I think you must be with him now... I will see you tomorrow...she opposed then suggested ...Ok Sukh take care!!!call me after reaching there.. Rishabh mandated dejectedOk!!! she said and hurried towards the Parking area...Strange what is wrong with her why was she crying..Or am I thinking too much it may be a speck of dust as she said... Will surely talk to her later... he analised and then went back to greet Nishant....Later that evening :Sukh was restlessly pacing from one corner to another of her room ...it was like there was an emotional turmoil getting on inside her...She even tried to stare stars to comfort her mind but that too did not helped...she was lost in her thoughts...whenSukh beta niche aao there is a surprise for you...( Sukh dear come downstairs there is a surprise for you...) Mrs Khurrana called her downstairs... Haanji Aunty abhi aaye..(Yes Aunty I m coming)...She responded and headed downstairs... and there was the most pleasant surprise waiting for her...Infront of her stood her family with Roohi holding the first prize of the Competition... Her eyes held so much happiness after seeing them for so long it was the longest she stayed without them and what she saw today was enough to break a part of her....She ran to her mother and engulfed her in a bone crushing hug crying her eyes out.... Sukhi!!!kya hua beta ( what's wrong dear) it's Ok we are here...why are you crying like this...said her mother rubbing her back consoling her...I missed you so much Maa...you guys were away for so long...I missed you all so much....she said between her sobs hiding her emotions...It's Ok Sukh we are here now.. it's Ok beta.. her mother caressed her hair consoling her...Sukh Aunty ke saath rehna ka experience itna bura tha ki Maa ko dekhte hi rone lagi... ( Sukh was the experience of staying with me so bad that you bursted on tears with the first glance of your Mother..) teased Mrs.KhurranaNahi Aunty aapke saath thay toh Maa ki kami kabhi feel hi nahi hui lekin aaj unko dekhte hi emotional ho gaye hum...( It's not like that Aunty I never reminded of Mon when Ivwas with you but looking at her Ivgot very emotional...)she defined her emotions innocent sniffing breaking the hug.....and everyone laughed over it... Aap bhi na Jiji...sabko emotional kar diya..( Jiji that's not fair ...you are making everyone emotional ) rather... we must be celebrating now I won the National Science Competition.... announced a proud RoohiOfcourse we will celebrate....but on your upcoming birthday....remarked her mother..Which means after 2weeks...she said counting days on her fingers..Apparently Yes!!!Sukh said nudging her..Ok we can have a house party now but right....Roohi suggestedYes Ofcourse...Mrs Khurrana interveined and played some party music on the amplifier....Khurranas and Mehras had a small celebration for some couple of hours after which they returned back to their home...On the other hand Rishabh,Dhruv and Nishant went to a Club and were seated at the VIP corner...They were enjoying their drinks...while Dhruv after some shots went to the dance floor...he requested Rishabh to accompany him too but left empty-handed as he clearly denied dancing...So how is life going... Nishant initiated the conversation...Life is Good!! what about you... Rishabh addedYup fine trying to run away from myself...he replied sarcastically twisting the beer bottle that lied empty near themAre you still looking for that girl and her family....asked Rishabh wandering about the mysterious girlI am trying to trace them..but I hardly feel it's going to repay...he said dejectedDon't loose hope buddy you will find your girlfriend...he uttered hyping hopesShut Up !!Rishabh..she is not my girlfriend... opposed NishantCome on bro you are looking for her for three years and you want me to believe she is just your childhood friend... Rishabh replied synicallyWell I know it's hard to believe but it's reality...he stated in a matter of fact toneAs far as I know you last time you saw her 5years back...which means if she will stand infront of you now you will not be able to recognise her... Rishabh picturised the circumstancesI don't need to recognise her by face... I have my own ways bro...added Nishant sounding confident on his beleif.I know you and your ways and I am sure you will make it...hyped Rishabh to boost him upHey what about Uncle and Aunty is your dad fine now...he asked concerned..Yup he is better!! Still in recovery mode....he repliedI am glad finally you make up to visit India...he uttered happilyYup but this happiness will not last long I will be back after a couple of days...I am here because I had some pending work here ...I hope I would be able to finish them this time...he said hopefullyMe too bro!!!I would love to assist you anyway possible you just need to say...he announcedI know that...he replied with moisture in his eyes...Hey what about Aarav...asked NishantHe is good...Ruchi is expecting their first baby so most of the time he is around her.... Rishabh chuckled with happiness..Wow!!it's a great news...they are going through such a beautiful phase of their life...analysed Nishant the beautiful phase of being would be parents...I know ....you know it's been almost a month we hang out...he said reminding himself...Good in one way.. interpreted Nishant..Remember what people used to call us in college days...he reminsced stepping down the memory lane... Awesome threesome...they said in unison...They continued reminscing their college days for rest of the evening ...a perfect catch up of Old friends...Later that night....After having dinner with her family Sukh was oiling Roohi's hair on her demand...as she continued blabbering about her whole experience of the Competition which she listened half hearted as thinking about various ways to deal with Nishant...She knew he always have an impact on her but that will be not good for her now as things are changed....Jiji what is wrong with you..Roohi asked irritated of Sukh's silence...Yup then what after he said it...asked Sukh trying to catch up the last part of conversation she heard....Jiji where are you lost...I am not going to say anything.. you are not listening to me...Roohi pouted angrily moving away as thought she is being ignorant to her...Sorry Roohi... actually I am a bit tired today...I will listen to your story later dear... suggested Sukh calmly in an attempt to calm her anger...Jiji is your boss still bothering you...she asked concerned of Sukh's strange behaviourNo Roohi!!! ofcourse not I know he is strict and often rude but he is a very nice guy by heart...you remember I told you about the Party thing....he faught with his friend there for my sake....she said narrating her the incidentOh so now you adore him...Roohi asked nastilyHe is not as adorable in ways you are thinking my naughty sister but Yes I have started adoring him now....she replied casuallyI think you should ask him to date you...suggested Roohi out if the blues...Shut Up Roohi...stop embarassing me..she asked displeased...I am saying this on a serious note Jiji ...he must know someone is infatuated to him...Roohi suggestedI am not infatuated to like him siso I respect him and even if I do like you think without my consent...I don't think he will ever love me....girls like angels swoon over him....I am definately out of his league...she said like stating a fact..Excuse me Jiji those Girls are not angels they are fake, liars and devil hearted and don't you ever look down on yourself I know you are jit going to love someone because of what he has you will love someone because of who is he....and as per looks goes look at yourself no one can ever say No to you...you are epitome of beauty inside and out....Roohi said holding her hands hyping her with words filled with love and respect in her eyes...He is just a known Stranger to me... I don't know anything about....she quoted shruggingNishant's POV:Nishant in the other hand stayed wide awake till midnight in his Villa wondering about the girl he saw today...It is hard to believe that after having so many shots of Drinks I still can't get over the glance of that girl.... her doe shaped brown eyes which seem to look down at one's soul... seemed to divulge secrets which she wanted to keep ...they speaked so many unsaid words....but why did she behaved so weirdly....like she was scared....her smile fainted looking at me...I hardly think I meet her before then why was she sacred...Her words were filled of content and fear, everything about her is so enchanting just like her... there is surely something that got her into my nerves..why does she seems like a known stranger....he thought to himself remembering the beautiful brown orbs of Sukh...**Everytime he thought of Sukh she reminded him of someone special ...he suspected her to be his destination but as Dhruv already said she was her batchmate so the proximity of her being the same girl comes to end by his side..but still there was something bothering him but what... ______________________________________So here's an another update...and we are at the end of the chapter...Hope you guys enjoyed it...See you all in the next update ........Till then love yourself and keep smiling 😊and yes Stay indoors to stay safe... take care of yourself and your loved ones...See you soon...Don't forget to vote and comment 😁Would really appreciate your feedback....This is me Signing out... Bye:) :)Â