chapter 41

Confrontations:-Later that night :-How much time we need more to reach the place...asked Rishabh to Ravi in a bit muffled sleepy voice as just woke up with the sound of a honk....We are almost there Sir approximately half an hour more....Ravi replied obidiently..Ok take turn to the Villa directly....Rishabh asked and then settled back in his seat with all the while Sukh was helding the part of her shirt aside his chest as if her life is dependent on it sleeping soundly like a kid...Rishabh although had a look of amusement over his face but then tried to free his shirt but all in vain as everytime he tried to be away from her she tightened her hold over him...Soon they were outside the huge gates of Malhotra Villa...which is located near the breathtaking beautiful valleys of Nainital....Ravi reached to open the Car's door for Rishabh to step out...while he getting down scooped her up in bridal style and left the place not before ordering him to take care of the luggage in the Car...Welcome dear!!!...how was the journey!!!....greeted Maria Aunty the senior maid servant of the Villa who was in-charge of the place she is a bit chubby lady in her mid 50s and very jolly in her attribute...It was good Maria Aunty thank you...Is the guest room prepared...he asked stepping in the gigantic Drawing area...Ofcourse dear ...she replied  following himHmm....he nodded his head then carried her upstairs to the guest room and tried laying her there on the bed so that he could move to go to his room but his collar was still on her hold...with her petite figure pressed against his....Smiling a bit he released her hands from him and then laying her over bed and pulling the duvet over her figure went back to his room adjacent to hers not before asking her to take care of her ...Besides Dhruv was grinning ear to ear as he saw them distantly stepping inside the Villa then left to his room as was now relaxed looking them proximal to each other....Later that Night :-..Beta pyaar ek bahut khoobsurat ehsas hai...(son love is a very beautiful feeling...)Kai baar aapko bina jane pyaar ho jaata hai aap apni feelings ko khud conclude nahi kar sakte kabhi uski har baat pe gussa aata hai kabhi badi si badi galti par bhi pyaar....( Sometimes even you can't conclude your feelings...sometimes you get angry over someone over nothing and sometimes their huge mistakes make you fall for them...)Kabhi aap uska intezaar mein besabr hote hai toh kabhi unke saath ke liye wabasta....(sometimes you are restless to wait for the person and sometimes you may linger the moments for the person to show up...)Rishabh is still in his small study at the Villa working over his presentation on laptop parallely thinking about his conversation with Dad that evening with thought of Sukh engrossing his mind...He wasn't able to think of anything except her... sighing he closed the laptop with a thud and bend back to the chair keeping his hands below his head...everytime he closed his eyes he could see her face, feel her touch and warmth around him...She has been a soul comforter to him... besides the news and the confusion it brought with it was a huge turnover to his feelings...He can feel his heart ache the moment he thought she will be away for him forever... that she !!...He reminsced of the incidents post her departure that afternoon..** flashback**You know what boy I expected the CEO of this Multinational Company to be a much more aged guy so he could have maturity in him...but I must say...you are very impressive thus your conditions are too....but the profit margins it provide are inconclusive....I mean long term association I can't guarantee you that....stated Mr.Oberoi sipping his drink while Rishabh was busy looking over his phone which notified him of enormous calls and messages from Dhruv in a unexpected short span....Well Mr.Oberoi in Business world maturity comes with experiences...and my conditions will adhere to bring profit to both the Companies and you know that too... Rishabh added looking straight into him with words full of Confidence that can make one beleive of it's worth...Ok...so must must seal the deal... Congratulations Mr.Malhotra....he stated out of the blue....Wait that's great Mr. Oberoi... congractulations to you too...he added looking at him...Fine...But wait will like to grab the lunch first...I am not that young anymore...he complied stating the conditionSure Sir...Rishabh too agreed exchanging an official friendly laugh and gestured Ravi to set lunch for them but was cut off as his phone beeped again this timeSorry Sir excuse me for a while got to take this....Rishabh exclaimed grabbing his phone and went out of the placeDhruvi I was in a meeting ....you must not call someone insanely...he complained of his childish attribute without hearing him...Bhai Sukh is there with you right...he asked gasping...What!!! why are you... he asked puzzledBhai answer me please..is she with you...he questioned again sounding annoyed..No she left a while ago...but why are...Rishabh interrogated scrunching the back of  his neck but was cut off...Did you saw the news...Dhruv restatedNo!!...but why are you so stressed... Rishabh questioned sensing worry in his voiceBhai an acciedent happened a while ago near the NH of our Office building and the dead body resembles her in many ways....I am scared God forbid...he conveyed stating the last part in disagreement but sounded more to beleive it...Wait...just stop... don't ...It must not be her...and moreover it's just a stupid news... Rishabh rebuked breaking his sentence making him unable to complete it...Media always exaggerate things...I will see to it...he sighed masking the deep down brood for her...Where are you!!....asked a vexed RishabhI am in my department...Dhruv replied incoherently...Ok stay there others will be soon leaving for Nainital....You see to the departure activities and I suggest leave with your team ... he delinated to Dhruv....I will get her there...She must be alright...then added completing his sentence sighing after a moment of silence...Wait I will accompany you!!...Dhruv proposed..No don't what if she comes back within a while...You must stay here and keep me informed...Rishabh proffered persuading him He dialled the number on speed dial then articulated Ravi I am leaving now there is an urgency....take good care of the clients...he ordered informing him before his departure then strided towards the exit...Sir what, I mean why...Ravi asked puzzled..I don't have time to explain anything...just apologise on my behalf to him...I will be back shortly....he completed then shoved his phone back to his pocket before speeding up his car accelerating the speed...Soon he was at the acciedent spot and found the place to be sealed by Police....no vehicles were allowed on the route....there were traces of blood across the lane...and it bothered him even more... Officer what's wrong... Rishabh asked getting down his CarDidn't you saw the news...a brutal acciedent happened here you must take another route to your destiny.....The man informed...What about the victim... Rishabh asked the person in-charge...She is at critical stage...the Officer stated and went back to his van...What!!! he muttered to himself...She is admitted to Medica India...the Officer replied before turning away then ignited the engine...Thank you so much Officer...he replied and got back to his car again speeding to the direction of Medica India with his nerves all tensed imaging the worst that could have happened...Sir how can I help you...asked the hospital receptionist to him in a polite tone as soon as he reached the lobby...Sukh...I mean Ms. Sukhpreet Mehra is she admitted here... Rishabh asked panting as was running out of breath...Just a minute...Sorry Sir we don't have any patients with that name...she answered checking her computer..Check it again I am told she is here... Rishabh insisted...I am Sorry Sir we don't have any patient with this name....she replied again after taking a glance to her computer screen...Ok!! is there any acciedent patient here... Rishabh asked realising that her name must not have been registered here..Yes Sir...she is at the Emergency ward...the receptionist replied with a assuring lookWhich way...he asked without glancing her...Take a right from the adjacent Collidoor...she directed..Thanks....he replied and ran to the place...he found Emergency written in bold words outside the ward and waited there for the doctor to arrive..Doctor is she fine...Rishabh tried asking the Doctor as soon he stepped out the emergency ward...Who are you of the Patient....the doctor asked deliberately...Sir I... I...is she fine...he stammered but asked again without answering..I am extremely Sorry ..by the time she was brought here huge blood loss was already occurred...we were not able to save her... Doctor narrated and then putting a hand on his shoulder in assurance ..What!!! he yearned in a bemoaning toneExcuse me.!!!..The Doctor said before leaving..I can't beleive it... how can she...this is not possible...he whispered to himself weeping silently as tears uncontrollably flowed down to his cheeks but his phone beeped again...He answered it and it was Dhruv on the other side...Bhai!!..Dhruv sounded much relaxed this timeDhruvi.!!... Sukh..I.. Rishabh tried saying finding words for himself as was not able to find his own voice...Yes Bhai she is here.!!..Dhruv stated ecstatically...Huh!! Rishabh asked in disbelief..Yup she is here..and absolutely fine we had a confusion....Dhruv conjoined shrugging...Is she around you... Rishabh asked in a cold tone his feelings of grief now turned into uncontrollable anger No she just left for upstairs...Dhruv replied...Have you asked her why was she not picking up... Rishabh asked agitatedactually she forgot to take her phone alongwith her...Dhruv answered taking her sideWhere are you now!!... asked DhruvI am at Medica... Rishabh replied exasperatingBhai are you alright!! why are you... Dhruv asked concerned.....Yup I am fine don't worry...I am coming within a while ... Rishabh completed and disconnected the call...Here's your Coffe son should I set the dinner as well...asked Maria Aunty in her motherly affectionate voice placing his Coffe at the table as she entered the place bringing him back to the present moment... No thanks Maria Aunty I am good, did Drhuv had dinner ....he asked getting some files to him ....Dhruv was back an hour ago...he said he had dinner with his friends... Maria Aunty confined and turned to bring the mug to him...Great!!.. Rishabh muttered taking a sip of it..should I ask him to join you...she proposedNo it's fine I will speak to him tomorrow.. besides it's quite late he must be sleeping now... Rishabh said letting go of the thoughtOk son... she replied and exchanged a small smile to him..Maria Aunty one more thing, is Sukh...I mean the girl, is she fine...he asked concerned Don't worry dear...as you've said I already changed her clothes...she has mild fever now...I guess she will be Ok by tomorrow...she suggested Hope so...he muttered to himself..thanks for the Coffe by the way it's quite late now....I think you must get back to your room too.. Rishabh posted returning the smileOk son... Good night...and yes don't work late your mother asked me to keep check on you two...she playfully scolded rolling her eyes like used to do in their childhood...I will speak to Mom aunty...Good night...he said dismissing her Hmm...she nodded and went back closing the doors behind her...After which he walked to the balcony of his study carring his Coffe mug enjoying the spectacular view of night sky in the lap of mountains thinking to himself... She has fever yet!!...maybe because of stress...par woh kyu pareshan hogi... Pareshan toh aaj usne kiya hai hum sabko...( but why will she be stressed...she stressed us all today...)Kya hai yeh ladki...(what a girl is she...)so unpredictable...kabhi toh lagta hai she is the smartest person around and sometimes it feels duniya ke sabse bewakof hasti hai...(sometimes I feel she is the world's biggest fool)Waise aaj kaafi pareshan kiya hai humne bhi usay... aur uska phone....she was shocked for sure...galti humari bhi nahi hai..( even I troubled her a lot today...and her phone... but it's not my fault...) I can't control my anger for sure...But what I did was not only my anger today....I wanted to tell her I was worried I wanted to ask why did she left... but kya itna haq hai humara uspe...( but do I have this much right on her...)Haq toh chodo gussa kitna kharab hai uska, humse bhi jyada....hume laga dus minute mein darr jayegi ( forget about rights...her anger is a disaster fir sure more dangerous than mine . I thought she will be scared and search for help within ten minutes...)..but she kept walking along the streets for an hour mumbling what not in midst of passive drizzles...I must say she is short tempered too... besides being stubborn clumsy and mine...Kya woh itna haq degi hume khud ke upar... kya woh kabhi apna kahegi hume...( Will she ever be rightfully mine..will she ever consider me to be her...) he started fighting his inner battle in conflict....Yeh kaisi hichak hai Sukh tum 100 logon ke samne haq se mere haathon se glass le sakti ho , hume sabke samne careless hone pe daat sakti ho, humari Peanut se allergy ke khayal rakh sakti hoLekin humse jhagda nahi kar sakti ki kyu aapke kehne pe hum aapki gaadi me apna favorite music nahi chalayenge ( what kind of hesitance is this Sukh...you can take away my glass of drink infront of 100 people,you can scold me for being careless, take care of my allergies..but you can't fight over my stubbornness, can't rebuke stating why will I not okay my favorite music in your car...)Tum din bhar itni saare baatein kar sakti ho lekin apne dil ki baat humse nahi kar sakti....Yeh kaisa rishta hai humare beech ki tum humare liye sabse lad sakti ho lekin apne liye humare galat hone par bhi kuch nahi kehti kyu Sukh...kya iska koi bhi jawab nahi hai tumhare paas...(  You can speak a lot along the day but can't say what's there in your heart...What kind of relationship we have that you can fight with the whole world for me but can't fight with me for yourself even if I am wrong.... don't you have any answer for that) ...Waise toh humesha hume chup kar deti ho...lekin hum jab kuch sunna chahe toh khud chup ho jaati ho...( You always leave me speechless, but when I want to know something you self become quiet..) he complained  sighing about her nature looking towards her room....Aaj tak hamesha lagta tha ...Kya sach mein pyaar aisa hota hai...kya aap kisise itna pyaar kar sakte hai ki aap apni puri life unke saath rehna chahte hai...( Till date I used to assume does love truly exist...can you love someone to an extent that you want to spend your whole life with the person...)Kya kisi ka ehsas aapke andar itna khubsurat change la sakta hai...( does the feel of someone around you can bring beautiful changes in you...)Agar haa toh sayad hume bhi pyaar ho gaya hai...( If yes then I am definately in love...)Hume Sukh bahut pasand hai....(I like Sukh a lot...) I love her....he finally confronted closing his eyes......but what if she doesn't feels the same for me....I could never expect forcing myself on her...well if you ask the reason I don't know it myself.... He kept fighting his conflicts ...Next Morning...Sukh struggled to keep her eyes shut as peeking morning rays of the sun from the long curtains of the room striked her face...She had a thrashing headache all credits to her fever and ice cream treat with the bonus of monsoon showers..She slightly mewled then turned to her side... but that aided her headache more...she reached for the duvet which is now below her waist but soon realised she is at an unknown place...Jolting away from her sleep she trailed her eyes around the place and found herself in a big luxurious room...She stood up from her bed and reached for the windows....she slightly drew the curtains aside and before her was the most breath taking view of Nainital...She was in awe of the place but then discerned looking at her reflection that her clothes are changed.... making her dumbstruck...The last memories she had was her passing out in his arms and could hardly recollect what happened next...She was gasping in awkwardness when someone stepped inside her room not before some faint knocks..Good Morning dear!! greeted Maria Aunty...Good Morning!! She replied with a faint smile...Multiple questions were swirling her head but she decided to keep quite and plainly asked....Where am I..!!Who brought me here.!!.Who can it be except the owner of this place...you are standing now at the ancestors home of Malhotra's....she completed...I am Maria William you can call me Maria Aunty... everyone calls me Aunty... besides I work as a caretaker here during day...she stated keeping bathrobes at the table...Sukh was flabbergasted for a couple of minutes then asked...My clothes I was drenched last night...Who changed them...she asked the last part with trembling lips as was fighting the urge to burst into tears...Ohh don't worry it was me...You are like my daughter I will never take your advantage...she said cynically and then bursted into laughter....Yes I forgot to state earlier that was so careless of you to be drenched at this weather...you had high fever last night...your body was shivering like anything I had to cover you with 4 duvets, still you were cold...you must not be having any idea how worried was Master Rishabh....she scolded rolling her eyes the next moment as like a bipolar personality...Despite Sukh had a sigh of relief as her assumptions were all proven wrong then continued Where is my luggage and where are others!!....Yes!! your luggage; it's all set in the wardrobe...I have asked driver to collect you luggage beforehand as ordered...Besides...Rishabh Sir and Dhruv Sir are in their rooms they will shortly join you for breakfast...she conveyed looking at her...And what about others !!! Sukh asked passively...I don't know about others...Ohh!! Yes some people are staying at Company's guest house...she shrugged answeringCampany's guest house!!...she muttered to herself wondering the reason why he brought her here despite all other staff members are at guest house...You must get ready dear ... I will see you soon...I have a lot of work to be taken care of people here are so careless...she screamed some unknown names leaving outside her room...Woh laye hume yaha..hume toh kuch yaad bhi nahi hai..pata nahi neend mein kya kya keh diya hoga....ab kaise face karogi unhe Sukh...( he brought me here, I don't remember anything...who knows what not I would have muttered to him; how will I face him now...)...she questioned herself..I must get dressed, I want to confront everything to him, and that's most important....she hyped herself looking at the wall clock..Few moments later she was outside his room and faintly knocked it asking for his permission to enter, which he readily gave answering Come in!! a low tone....She entered  into his room which is a bit bigger than hers but the best part of it was the fireplace,  his back was facing her while he was going through some files and looked more handsome in his ...shrugging it all she blurted...Sir I want to ask you something!!!it's about...Hold on Ms.Mehra....no Morning greetings !! why are you in a rush...he stated maintaining composure...I am not in a rush!!...she whined backOk so listen to me first....you will not be coming to the meeting with us...he said more than ordered authoratively as his words mere makes a difference..What!! why!!! She asked confused...I am not answerable to you Ms.Mehra and I asked you to hear me out not to question me back...he slightly rebukedSo..I was saying that you are not gonna attend today's meeting and will go to the Branch Office here and give me the progress report of financial strategies...he instructed....Sir me!!! how ca...she tried reasoning but was immediately cut off...Ofcourse you can Ms. Mehra I trust your capabilities...and besides I need that report in my hand within today evening....he mandated closing the file and reaching for other oneSir but the motive for our visit is this meeting...even I want to be a part of it...you said it's Compulsory for every staff....she stated her point...Correction Ms. Mehra it's Compulsory for the associated staffs....and you are out of it...he compiled looking to her eyes...Ajay will drive you to the place...he then added sighing after a moment of silenceHis words provided the souvenir of great dejection as she reminded of the Contract termination letter which was assigned to her name...she was quitely listening to him holding the corner of her veil...And one more thingwe will be leaving now to get you a phone...he stated more than ordered...Phone!! ..she asked more like questioned...Your previous phone is shattered into pieces so you need a phone and I don't need your buts, you need one to stay in touch...he said in a matter of fact like tone going through the file againBut Sir...she tried repostingWe are done here Ms. Mehra and you are dismissed...he said dismissing her Dismissed!!... she pouted Yes!!! He shruggedSir I am not done yet... She retreated looking away...Sorry Sir for cutting you off but I don't want you to buy me one... she said clearly looking to other direction...My Company pays me enough, so I can manage my expenses ... thanks for you consideration....she added then turned to leaveSukh...he uttered her name in a low tone in disappointment of hurting her..You must be getting late Sir...Sorry for bothering you...Have a great day ahead....she greeted professionally then turned to leave...Jab insult hi karni thi toh yaha laye kyu kehte hai ( if he wanted to insult me and let me stay away then why did he brought me here , he says...)..it's for the associated staff so what am I doing here what's my role.......pata nahi kya chalta rehta hai inke dimaag mein Sanki kahi ke...( who knows what type of thoughts runs in his mind...Mr.moody..)And upar se ( adding to it ) he approached to get me a phone...khud toda yeh nahi  (he is not accepting he broke it ) rather he taunts me that's it shattered into pieces...Mr Khadoos you broke it into pieces....Never I am not going to take any more favors from him...He wants to terminate my contract ussey pehle I will resign ( I will resign before he terminated it self)...Oh no!!..hum toh bhool hi gaye...ghar pe call karna hai...( Oh my I forgot ..I will have to call home..) I must rush to get a phone for myself first....she mumbled everything to herself walking at the way to the exit door..Later that afternoon....Sukh where are you!! Dhruv asked calling her I am in branch Office Dhruv ji...is the meeting started... she asked sounding excitedYup second presentation is going on and we are in No-6... Dhruv mentionedGlad to hear that...Best of luck...God bless we will definately get the Contract... She wished him luckThay we will for sure but tell me when are you planning to be here... he asked about her arrivalI ...I ...am not legible to be there... she whispered to herself What....he asked confused...Actually I am working on the Progress Report of the branch...and that will take time... she reasoned out..Oh that's not a big deal the place is just 25 minutes away from here... Dhruv suggested asking her to reach the place soon...But Rishabh Sir!!... she questioned unsure of his reaction..I am not going to hear it Sukh... everyone is here except you, comeon Yaar, you are an integrated part of us...Dhruv persuaded calling her again to the VenueSir but I don't know about the roads here... she excused again..No buts dear you are coming I am sending Abhimanyu... Dhruv declared leaving no room for argument....No wait...I will come.... she interveined  Will be waiting Sukh and I promise I am not going to start it until you come... He conditioned before agreeing to her...Ok fine... She replied with a smileAfter around thirty-five minutes she reached the place while Dhruv and Abhimanyu were already waiting for her at the basement...Finally I got a sight of you...Dhruv chirped looking at her..Haha very funny where are others...she questioned paying the cab driver ..others Oh!! they all left for the resort...Dhruv lied to find her reactionHuh!!! she asked unsure..Only me Bhai and Abhimanyu are here now even you are with us...he added sounding more serious this timeBut you said everyone is here...she asked innocentlyOfcourse Silly everyone is here but not around your sight to look around they are all seated ... He gushed Ok!! And you are here to receive me... Sujh questions raising a brow...Yup I am here to receive my dear friend... he readily agreed with a winkAww so sweet... She replied with same enthusiasm..Comeon let's get inside.... Abhimanyu joinedAfter you... both Abhimanyu and Dhruv gestured her to lead the way bowing down a bit as she is the queen and she obidiently accepted the honour of doing so as they both followed her...By the way nice phone...I mean from where did you find this antique I guess Nokia is done with this kind of models... Dhruvi mocked after walking some steps with her looking at her phone..Haha very funny...she sarcastically repliedNo seriously girl it's an antique... Dhruv conjoinedDhruvji...it's a temporary one Actually I accidentally broke my phone last day and the shop whet I have been today had starting prices from 25,000/- and I am running out of savings now... she explained You may have asked me...He proposed but soon felt anxious as he know she wouldn't like the idea of thatNever... She retreatedI mean for loan... he added rubbing the back if his neck...I don't need loan now..will surely ask you whenever I need it... she voiced realising the arising awkwardness...What are you doing here... Rishabh voiced reverbated the silent lobby as he appeared from behind them disconnecting his phone suggesting he is out to attend someone's call...Bhai...so nice to see you... Dhruv answered turning to him while she gasped getting his sightDhruvi wait...I am asking you Ms. Mehra what are you doing here...he interogated taking a step near herI ....I am a part of the Company so I am here to attend the seminar... She blurted collecting all her strengthBut I asked you not to....he said with clenched jawWhat's wrong Bhai it was my idea to get her here.... Dhruv interrupted as she hide behind him in fear...That's because you didn't knew that she is not supposed to be here but she knew it... Rishabh uttered sounding more raged nowLet it be Bhai...come let's get in...they will be calling for us very soon... Dhruv asked dismissing the topic dragging Rishabh with him as Sukh silently followed them and they joined others inside the Venue...The next presentation is by Dhanrajgir Enterprises...the anchor announced as everyone clapped hyping themA representative appeared from their side and presented their Presentation which was the exact copy of one which Anuj made excluding some parts which didn't effected it's originalityWhat the!!! Anuj cursed under his breathThat's unbelievable... Malvika gasped..Sir did you saw that it's just the exact copy of Anuj's presentation....Sukh confronted looking at Rishabh holding his hand kept on the table as was just sitting beside him...I can't beleive myself....Sir I... Anuj tried to convince but got interrupted as he orderedNo noise guys we need to be calm...in a famous cold  tone of hisAnd now it's time for the break....we will resume it after 10 minutes..the guy announced the break and left the stage vacant...Rishabh did you saw that ... Dhanrajgirs copied our presentation we don't have to show anything now...Lavanya whined angrily ...I knew it it's all because of this girl...if it's not been her they would have...she added looking at SukhLavanya...keep quite!! Rishabh stopped her to speak a word furtherOfcourse you can ask me to be quite but what about this deal... remember you lost it because of this girl... He mutterred loud enough for him to hearGuys I guess we are at the end of the Meeting ...you all will come across the results within sometime... get back to the resort...I will see you all there... Rishabh announced getting up straightening himself as he rised from his chair...But Sir!! Ravi tried to ask but a glare for him and no one dared to ask anythingOk Sir...they compiled and left one by one leaving Sukh who was fixed to her place like root of a plantMs. Mehra you are no exception...he said looking at herI will not go... she repostedExcuse me.. he asked her to say it again...Rishabh Sir ...can we ask Mr. Batra for help...we will tell him that they cheated and copied our presentation...I will take the charges on me... She suggested him measure so that they could get over this trouble leaving him speechless he have never thought someone will ever try to do this just to save the Company's reputation oughting to be ruined...Sukh are you listening to yourself...you are not guilty why will you take the charges on yourself...he said grabbing her hands as she was admanant on her idea to out into action...Sir our Company...it's prestige is at stake here... ho..how can...she reasoned looking straight to him with her brown orbs which held the capacity of penetrating souls...Sukh wait...Ok just relax...he calmed her downCome with me...he asked and took her with him inside the Venue again as it was the almost the time to resume...Dhruv Abhimanyu are you guys ready...he asked the two ...Always Bhai...Yes Sir...they said in unison...Come with me...he stayed dragging her to a seat near him and held her hands as the presentation continued...A look of worry was persistent on her face but he gave her a reassuring smile this time which she reflected back... still with the tint of stress...Dhruv and Abhimanyu were on stage then greeting everyone started presenting the Group Presentation by Sukh's team... even Cara was there alongwith themSukh was traumatised will be an understatement as the bolt from the blue was sure a huge blow for her...she self destroyed the Hard Copy of the Presentation but how did they have it and when did they prepared for it....She looked back at his direction with a questioning look but he responded with a reassuring smile again gently holding her palm giving an I will explain things to you look....She looked for some lies in his eyes but surprisingly couldn't find any so letting go of the worries she enjoyed the moment of being beside him....Soon every presentation was done one by one and now it was the time for result..Sukh was keeping fingers crossed mumbling prayers under her breath while Dhruv and Abhimanyu seemed to be tense too..besides Rishabh was all calm enjoying the sight in front of him...and they announced Malhotra are getting the tender....Congratulations Mr. Rishabh Malhotra...She jumped in happiness and monotonously embraced him a hug, while Abhimanyu and Dhruv hugged each other ... realising her stunt she slightly moved away embaressed while his cheeks too were now a tint of pink...then Dhruv and Abhimanyu too hugged him one by one....They were Congractulated by huge round of applauses by every present person there and the Council too appreciated their work...Soon Rishabh was called to draft the Contract and he left with Dhruv and Rahul not before asking her to wait till he returns...Sukh was waiting for him at the table but Abhimanyu came asking for her permission as he wanted to convey the good news to others too...Sukh suggested him to call them but he was adamant to give them the news personally... she liked the idea too as before a while everyone's face was dropped low due to certainty of loss and the news will brighten up everyone's face...She looked around for Rishabh but he seemed very busy so dropping a message for him she too left with Abhimanyu to greet the other staff...Soon they reached the guest house where the whole floor was booked in the name of their Company...The place had 15 suites alongwith an attached lobby...They shouted the names in content calling everyone out of their rooms and soon everyone appeared but something appeared to be fishy...despite being disheartened their faces show emotions of pure hatred and disgust towards Sukh...Why are you shouting like a dying Cow... exasperated Malvika coming out of her room...Excuse me!!..she asked not believing what she just heard...You heard her girl why are you shouting... Lavanya commented from nowhereGuys don't be sad over the Presentation thing we...Sukh chirped with a smileNot we Sukhpreet!! especially not you are apart of us!! Malvika voiced sounding bitter than beforeWhy are you all sound...Sukh asked gently looking at everyoneWhy are we sounding bitter, don't you know that... exclaimed Lavanya appearing from behind everyone...I really don't have any idea about it... Sukh replied persistently Oh how would she...being a master in playing innocent....is was again a bitter comment from LavanyaPlaying innocent...what are you...she tried reasoningWait let me show you...she proposed This pictures!!!They are all reality... putting an end of your show...she said handling her those pics....This is not true the pictures it's not like what it seemed...she protested with a teary eyes which appeared as soon as she saw them one by one,the picture portrayed things like they were in a date in his car resembling them to be couples...Pictures never lie ...she added bitterly looking at her disgustedly..I can't beleive You are the one who sold the Contract to Dhanrajgirs just to satisfy your ego... Malvika joined inIt's a wrong allegation I didn't...She reposted maintaining sanityIf you didn't then what are you doing with the Contract file with you...and that too in his Car.... questioned RaviIt's not like what it seems.. beleive me guys...she tried to persuadeSukh Mam can't do anything like this I beleive her... Abhimanyu said in her support and for split seconds everyone were agreed to it but then...If she is not engaged with him so what is she doing with him....why are they so close why is he holding her wrist...and can't you see the love in their eyes...she added emphasizing on one picture..Enough of your nonsense Lavanya.... Rishabh yelled standing at the entrance making everyone alarmed with his presenceas everyone composed himself while he strided towards them...He was a ray of hope for Sukh as she believed he will care to hear her although was not sure if he would beleive her or not....Rishabh Sir they are saying that...Sukh ran to him as she wanted him to hear her once...Sukh I have told you ki aaj yaha mat aana toh fir kyu aayi tum...bolo kaha tha na humne mat aana idhar toh fir tum aayi hi kyu...(You Ms. Mehra I asked you to wait I damm asked you not to come here can't you get things at one time...)Rishabh reprimanded to her surprise she was hurt for sure...I ...I .. she tried finding words but couldn't find any , devastated she left the place running as fast as her leg could carry her..He tried calling her but all in vain as she didn't heeded to him...Rishabh do you know what... Lavanya tried to agonize him more with her tricks but he immediately put an end to it sayingNot even a word or I will forget I even knew you ever....Rishabh I knew you will not beleive me see I have proof with me....just look at these ...the pictures clearly show she is with Kaushik at his car....she tried to emphasize smirking evilly handling her the pictures which he immediately tored into small pieces and threw up in air without even glancing ones...What have you done....she asked unsure of what she just saw finding her plan turning against her...On the contrary Sukh reached the Villa's guest room and barged inside closing the doors behind her....She sat on the corner of bed and face palmed herself...her mind was occupied with the sight of disgust everyone had in her eyes looking at her pictures... but what bothered her the most was Rishabh who didn't cared to hear her once...She reminsced the meeting with Kaushik that evening...that led to all those pictures ...they portrayed things  opposite of what they actually were...things were never like those....**The evening they meet**It was the evening when I and Nishant Bhai confronted everything between us...I was in a rush to reach office and was walking  in my limits if fastest pace as the cap I hired broke down a km away from our Office building...I know it's just about a block so I hopped down the car and walked carelessly to my destination the only thought running in my mind was to reach the place on time...At first place I didn't noticed a black Mercedes following me bluntly but as I took a turn from the adjacent side I realised something is fishy...Some faint footsteps followed me, I didn't dared to look back as before me I could get the sight of gigantic Malhotra's Office..and then started running to the place as fast as my legs could have carried me...but suddenly my wrist was gripped by someone....I struggled to free myself but all in vain..the figure was strong enough to budge....I tried shouting for help but he covered my mouth and dragged me to the adjacent small lane between two buildings...I deliberately punched his arms but I really think it would have effected him a bit...Then was my master stroke...I bite his arm making him wince in pain and releasing myself turned away to run again but he grabbed me with his other hand and called....wait girl I just wanna talk...I know the voice but it recollected me the bitter memories associated with it...I turned back to look at him and I saw Kaushik holding my wrist...Leave me!! was all I managed to say taking g a step back getting hold of a stick lying there...Hey listen to me...I just wanna...he tried persuing butLeave me or I will shout for help or will not hesitate to break your head...I threatened looking straight into his eyes...Look it's not about me but about Rishabh...he asked taking a step forwardI don't trust you...I retreated...Well then you may like to know that how I know  Anuj has made a presentation on Malls and Adventure parks....I was all surprised hearing him but still I was not sure if I should beleive him or not....It's about Rishabh girl and I don't know why out of all I am trusting you over this...I just need five minutes....I threw the stick I was holding in my hand back to the lane and followed him to his car ...Getting seated at the front seat he showed me a video clip over his i-pad which showed Lavanya with the hardcopy of the presentation....She was taking about selling it to Dhanrajgirs in exchange of Malhotra's disgrace....Sukh was still flabbergasted...the next moment he handled her the file and said...here that's yours to behold I know you will take good care of it....But you have the proof why are you showing it to me....you must talk to Riahabh Sir....and besides what will I do to it...That idiot is not picking up my call...he said in a blur earning a glare from her...Excuse me!!I mean ...he is mad at me....but that will not make me cheat him ever...he is and always be my buddy...And that's because of what...Because of my stupidity....Hmmm sounds better...she smirked hearing him then bursted into laughter...You have a nice smile girl...It's Sukhpreet Sir...Well Sukhpreet I am done with my five minutes....Thanks for your time...Well thanks to you too Sir ...Wait!! after what I have done to you I have never expected you to be patient enough and listen to me...I ..I am Sorry for that incident....See I am not that kind of a person who forces himself on girls.... it's just that...I thought you are trapping him with your innocence..I know you though I am a doing kind of fling with your bestie for sake of...See I am Sorry for beleiving that...I am really guilty...It's Ok...What...You didn't knew me so you judged me... everyone does that...So you are saying that...Yes Sir let's go off the past...So friends!!!Friends...So dear this lanes are not safe to walk in evening should I drop you somewhere...No Sir I will be going to Office now....Thanks for your help....Ok...see you around....Bye Sir...It was just this as far as I remember it..but was it actually this...I don't think that...was it a trap...I am done with all this...and now even I don't care.... she wiped the lone tear which slipped unnoticed from her eyes and went to grab all her stuff from the wardrobe and packed them in her bag...Back to present:-This shit of yours are not going to decide over my trust factor...and if she is guilty then what is this...he groaned in uncontrollable rage showing the video clip over his phonesoon everyone's mobile in the room notified them too and all received the clip on their phones...I don't wanted to things end up like this but you left no other way to me..he exasperated angrily handling it to her ....Rishabh I!! It's no ...not me...she shuttered replying eyes full of tears as was caught red handed and that was her last attempt to make him beleive her deceiving self...He took his phone back from her then shouted...Stop it just stop it will you....Rishabh please understand I was..she tried persuading again but he left no room of discussion...Understand what's left for understanding...This video is not morphed like your fake pictures I don't manipulate evidences....he said pointing at those fake picturesWho supplied you this...she asked vexed still not ready to agree her sinWell that's none of your concern....I have never ever thought that being a Professor's daughter you will stoop so low..I regret calling you my friend for trusting you ever and for thinking whatever you did in past was your childishness ..I thought you are still in College zone .. thinking it's Ok to bully someone bu there you are making people believe she cheated us...That's so cheap Lavanya...he criticised her with every word  throwing draggers at her hatred evident in his eyes making her feel ashamed and everyone's eyes was now in herRishabh I apo...was all she managed to say bowing her head down..Apologies....you know what I don't want to see your face ever again...Apologise!!...wait not only you everyone here....she has been working with you all since a long time... he outraged looking at everyone standing there like idolsWhere was she wrong...Malvika you call yourself her buddy right...some pictures and you lost all your trust...and you Cara even you have been with the flow she was the one who put her faith in your capabilities and what a great payment she received.... he denounced everyone gritting his teeth in a cold tone while they held their head low as was unable to face him ....What should I say everyone here is same... bloody morons.... he arraigned again and left...Soon he reached Malhotra Villa and barged inside shouting her name but was surprised to find her all set to leave with her luggage already bagged...Sukh aap kaha jaane ki taiyyari mein hain...( Sukh where are you set to go!!) he asked demandingly No answer!!!Sukh humne kuch pucha hai aapse...( I asked you something..) he chided againAchaa hua aap aa gaye gaye aur ab final formality bhi puri kar dijiye....( It's good you are here let's finish the final formality too...) she voiced looking straight into him her eyes void of any emotions..Kya...(What!!) he asked bewildered..De dijiye hume humara termination letter...( Give me my Contract termination letter ...) she fired her statement...Sukh yeh tum kya bole ja rahi ho...( Sukh what are you saying)... he asked unsure of what's up with her...Wahi jo sach hai woh jo aap karna chahte hai...wahi jo hona bacha hai....( The thing which is reality..the thing you want to do and the thing which is left to happen...) she said in a bit loud tone still sounding void as it barely effects her ....Dimaag kharab ho gaya hai tumhara...( Have you lost it..)... he said through gritted teethHaanji dimaag toh pakka kharab hi hai humara warna aap par bharosa nahi karte yeh nahi sochte ki aap humse....(Ofcourse I have lost it else would have never trusted you, would have never thought that you...) she stopped mid-sentence..Aap humse!!! ( That you!!) he questioned her last words..Ki aap...(that you!!) she tried finding words as was left with nothing...Kya Sukh ( What Sukh!!) complete you words... he demandedWell that doesn't bothers..... She said dismissing the topic and grabbing her bagSukh...he stood midway making her stop in her trackAap humara termination letter hume de rahe hai ya nahi..agar nahi toh mail kar dijiyega....she said before turning to other way to leave..Sukh pagal mat bano aur chalo humare saath...he said grabbing her wrist and dragging her to the guest room alongwith him her luggage bag fall down her shoulders....By the time they reached inside those four walls she jerked her hands away from him while taking a few steps back...Rishabh after glaring her for few seconds reached back to the doors and closed them behind him...Turning around he asked Sukh humari baat suno....( Sukh listen to me)..Bus Mr. Rishabh Malhotra bohat sun liya humne ab aap suniye aur sunne ki aadat nahi toh aadat dal lijiye...Kyuki hum jaisi middle class ladkiyan bolti bohat hai...sahi kaha tha aapne..( Enough Mr.Rishabh Malhotra I have heard enough now it's your turn and if you are not used to hearing then make a habit of it... because middle class girls like us speak a lot...you were right that day...) she shouted at the top of her lungs now sounding hurt and devasted as there was no one around but only him to hear her....Sukh humara woh matlab ....(Sukh I didn't meant) he tried explaining but was cut off as she said..Haanji bilkul aapka woh matlab nahi tha aapka matlab tha ki hum jaisi middle class ladkiyan har roj ghar se yeh soch kar bahar nikalti hai ki aaj kisi rich brat ko apni innocence se phasana hai.....( Ofcourse you meant that middle class girls step out  their house everyday with the motive if tricking rich brats with their innocence ...) and bursted into tears...Aur aapko bhi baaki sabki tarah lagta hai ki humne aapko cheat kiya...( you think like others that I have chested you...)Or more precisely aapko lagta hai ( you think)  behind your back I was entertaining your guests and serving my dignity to Kaushik right.... she added complaining and sniffed- sobbedSukh listen to me...he said taking a step closer but she stepped back yellingNo Mr.Malhotra you are wrong here let me make one thing really clear I may work for your company but I have not sold my soul yet....she stated the last sentence and bursted into tears...Rishabh's Pov:-I can't help myself now...she is misunderstanding the whole situation...I am trying my best to calm her down...but No she is all stubborn as always...She thinks I will doubt her intentions...never in my weirdiest dreams... how could she!!! and great she is shouting at the top of her lungs now...I have no other option left...He pushed her to the adjacent wall till her back was hitting it... holding her wrist tightly he gazed intently to her eyes which shread uncountable tears questioning him silently about his deeds but before she could resist or say anything....He placed a rough passionate kiss on her lips catching her off guard sending chills down her spine...**Kiss of 5 minutes..imagine the lenght and intensity and that too just to calm her down...we know how angry she could get when she is irked....*she tried to struggle for a while then finally opened up to him....Sukh's Pov:Unhone hume kiss kiya....nahi woh hume kiss kar rahe hai...aisa lag raha hai jaise humare pair hi nahi hai zameen pe ...par unhone hume thama hua hai...Samajhne mein thoda time laga hume jo ho raha tha humare saath ...(He kissed me! No he's kissing me I felt my knees giving up with my body but he held me still...It took me time to process what is happening....) until I found my own lips moving against his lips...After a while they broke the kiss to catch some air...they both looked into each other with so much love and she tried to say something but went dizzy and lost consciousness in his arms....Sukh Hey!!what's wrong !!Sukh...he shouted  her name in anxiety...He tried to wake her up but by touching her forehead he realised her pyrexia due to fever....he cautiously picked her up and laid her on bed...then called a doctor in urgency looking at her pale self....He was impatient waiting for the doctors arrival then called the servants of the Villa in intercom asking for ice cold water to place cold strips at her forehead...but didn't waited for them to show up as ran to the kitchen to get them himself...some maids were busy preparing Dinner as ordered by Dhruv and were all surprised getting  the sight of Rishabh but he cared least and quickly reached for it...Sorry Master I was about to.. approached a maid but..Do hell with it ...I just don't care with whatever you were doing...you must be present on one call and that's what your duty is.... Rubbish!! he muttered and then went back to the guest room carring the bowl...Soon the doctor arrived and checking upon her concluded she is stressed and besides didn't had anything since two days and that's the reason that she fainted...Is she alright, why did she fainted and what about her fever, she is having it since two days!!... Rishabh asked as soon as she stepped out of the guest room.. concern evident in his words as he waited outside providing them privacy...Don't worry Mr. Malhotra your wife is fine it's just that she is stressed and didn't had any proper meal since two days..she convey with an assuring smileWhat!! How can you be so sure!!! I mean to say....he tried questioningHer blood sugar level is plummete...and her body temperature is constantly fluxed....the doctor added stating some more medical terms..Does it means that she actually didn't had her meal since yesterday...he mumbled to himself and then looking at her asked..Is she fine I mean her fever, is it gone...Mr. Malhotra  don't worry she will be fine by tomorrow...the Doctor voiced relaxing his stressThank you Doctor.... He replied with a small smile glancing at her...a servant carried the Doctor's bag and she went away after handling him a small prescription...after she left, he turned to step inside the guest room where she was sleeping soundly her body was covered with duvet....He sat beside her in bed and slowly caressed her hair....Strange she didn't had anything since yesterday and I was all the while with her still I didn't cared to ask her...he thought to himself..How can you be so stupid Rish...he cursed himselfRis...Rishabh Sir t..tr...trust me I am not involved with Dh..Dha...she mumbled in her sleep...It's Ok Sukh..ssshhhh..sleep for now dear...he said now caressing her palm time moved with his speed and all the while he was with her...A sudden beep from his phone interrupted and he checked it to find an unexpected message from an unexpected person...which read....I am Off to Network my bestie, in a odyssey to find a new way ...I am Sorry for my deeds...and that was my last gift for my friend... I know you don't although I will always consider you one...- Kaushik...You will always be one idiot... Rishabh muttered shoving his phone back he placed his hands on her forehead checking temperature and found it to be subtle now...and then  laid down at the couch beside her bed speculating at her sleeping self he was continuously staring her till he had to fight the urge to blink his eyes many moments passed as such then finally closing his eyes he drifted off to sleep....______________________________________So guys we are at the end of the chapter...hope you all enjoyed it Will be eagerly waiting for you to drop comments on your favorite part....Don't forget to vote as well...See you all in the next chapter update...Till then smile and spread happiness as much as possible.....But utmost thing is learn to love yourself and understand your worth....This is me... Signing out. ..Bye...Take care ...