Chapter 23

NEXT UPDATE WILL ONLY BE IN 2015

RR through our eyes (Chapter 23)

Thanks Mano for the edits.

Thanks Amy for the review.

“You got kidnapped and they asked for a ransom. I just cannot believe such a thing happened. Who did it ? And you did not think it important enough to inform us?” Rajeev literally shouted at Myrah and kept asking her questions without giving her anytime to answer. “What else are you keeping from us? How could Rudra find you ? Thank God he saved you. But first tell me why were you kidnapped in the first place?”

 

“Because of her sheer stupidity and nothing else!!” came the angry reply in a reverberating voice. Rudra was back. And that was his first statement to Rajeev Mehra.

 

With the arrival of Rudra the family was complete in that living room. Actually the family – including the new family members to be inducted plus Rohit was present. A total of 12 adults and 3 kids and one infant. And the infant was not asleep till then. It was kicking its legs happily and makings noises while she was in Mohini’s lap. Well, that was till Rudra barged in with that line. Then the entire room went still. You could have heard the noise even if a mustard seed had fallen on the floor. If the infant could realise the seriousness of the situation, then what about adults ? Everbody heard the statement made by Rudra – except one. We will come to that part later.

 

Rudra was just filled with anger. Anger at Paro for having gone  out with those two saree sellers in spite of him ordering her to not step out of the house. Anger at her stupidity. In spite of all the effort which money and power can buy they were at a loss to find the minister’s daughter. Rudra shuddered at what would have happened had he not been able to reach on time to rescue Paro from the kidnappers. He knows Paro has no fear. But being fearless does not mean being stupid.

 

Kakusa knew all about Rudra’s anger. His childhood abandonment had made him an angry man. Angry at almost everything in this world. But Paro’s love had changed him. He had turned a new leaf. Became a loving husband and a doting father. Only to be plunged into sorrow later as Paro left them. Rudra then had directed all his anger at his and the nation’s enemies. And now after years he had found his connection with Myrah again. And when things were all going right for him and when the Mehras were impressed by the Ranawat family – yes Kakusa could see it in their eyes – Rudra has come and spoilt it fully. If at all somebody was foolish it was Rudra. No doubt. Kakusa thought he should say something before the situation goes out of hand. He cleared his throat.

 

Poonam was in a shock when she came to know about the bike accident and the kidnapping which happened. She was relieved that they were here with Myrah now. Seeing her safe and sound put Poonam at ease. Poonam was also pleased – immensely – to know that Rudra protected her both the times. She was happy that her daughter had found somebody who stood by her daughter in tough times as her body guard – literally. Poonam was already quite happy with what she saw in the haveli. People were nice. A very warm family. She had seen the bonding between Myrah and Dhruv. It was a mother-son bonding. Perfect in that. And now this news of Rudra’s courage and his attitude to do anything to protect Myrah. What more can a mother like Poonam ask for ? By nature she was an optimist. Always looked at a glass as half full and not half empty. So in her mind she had given the green signal for this wedding. Even before she saw her would be son-in-law. Then she heard his voice. And then she saw him. She liked what she saw. A very strikingly handsome man. She did not like what she heard. No man who cares for his girl will call her stupid in front of others. But Poonam was a very perceptive person. So she looked again. And saw only concern and love in his eyes. She understood that his words , his angry words, originated from his love for Myrah. And his eyes were just focused on Myrah and nobody else. Poonam decided to ignore his words. But she was afraid of Rajeev. Rajeev was not somebody who was good at looking beyond the words. And she was sure he will react. Maybe overreact to the situation to an extent of damaging it beyond repair. She held his hands tightly. And hoped that the grip will act as a break to Rajeev’s flow of words.

 

Rajeev was clearly happy during the lunch. The time the gifts were being distributed also made him glad. He did not see any greed in anybody’s eyes for the gifts. Only surprise and thanks for getting personalised gifts. He was happy till Dhruv told him about Myrah’s accident. And then came the shocking news of her abduction a few days back. He just could not believe that his only daughter, the object of all his love and affection, was kidnapped and taken away for ransom and he was unaware of the event. He was happily sitting miles away and going about his business as usual when his only child had a threat to her life ? He just could not believe his ears. Wondering why she got kidnapped in the first place. And then enters this man like a rolling ball of fire thundering that she got kidnapped because of her own stupidity. The daughter Rajeev knows is not stupid. Far from it. She has the brains to handle any situation. She had gone through the personal trauma and emerged victorious defying the doctors. She was very good in her academics. In her work with the NGOs. Both in India and abroad. Isn’t she the one who helped solve multiple cases of torture against women during her last visit to India ? Talking to many of the girl’s families, convincing them to come forward against the atrocities they faced from their in-laws ? Isn’t she the one who advocated adoption to many childless couples in America convincing them to take that one step towards their eternal happiness? Isn’t she the one who helped two girls and a boy to come out of their drug addiction in the U.S ?

 

Who is this guy , standing tall , who says such disrespectful things about Myrah ? What right does he have ? Agreed Myrah fell in love with him. And maybe he loves her. But that does not give him any right to talk so lowly of her. Nobody has ever talked bad about Myrah. No one can get away doing so – not in front of Rajeev Mehra at least. Oh Rajeev had a mouthful to tell Rudra. But then he felt Poonam’s grip on his own hand. The way his wife always does. Whenever she knew that Rajeev’s anger is going to get worse.

He took a deep breath before replying. And he said, “ Oh really ?”

Just two simple words. They were filled with sarcasm. Directed fully at Rudra.
 

Kakusa butted in and said .” Beta , Rudra.........”

Just two simple words. Filled with an intention to diffuse the situation.
 

And now the one person who did not register Rudra’s words. Myrah alias Paro. She did hear him. Just this voice. Not the words. The relief she felt was immense. The whole afternoon she has been trying to get hold of him. Worried when there was no news from him. He had promised to be back for lunch. And now it was hours later. And still there no news from him. His voice was like an ointment on her heart. She turned and felt his eyes on her. They just kept looking at each other. One with anger and another with relief. And in a few seconds the anger in his eyes mellowed down at her sight. Seeing her standing there was like a cold rain on his sweating body. He realised just then that he needs to just see her to put himself at ease. To be at peace he needs his Paro. Without her he is nothing. The kidnapping case which he was investigating has opened up his worries and fears again. His Birpur visit only made him more vulnerable. About her safety. About her. And the only thing which can soothe him is her sight. The anger in his eyes mellowed down. And slowly crept in into hers. Here she was going bonkers over her worries over him. And he was just striding in as if he is back from a walk.

 

“Rudra, you are back ? Where were you ? Do you know how worried I was about you ? How many times I tried calling you ? In your office and your mobile. I could not even reach any of your detectives. You promised to be here for lunch. Where in the world were you ? Couldn’t you have called up to let me know ? “ With every sentence her voice levels went up. She lunged at him and held onto his collar. Desperately hoping that holding him will bring down her worries. Touching him will erase her fears. Her own kidnapping had left her quite disturbed days back. It was a narrow escape for her. And for Rudra. She was not sure whether he thrust himself again in the face of such danger. Whether he had enough people with him before he followed the case. She kept bombarding him with questions expressing her anger and displeasure. In the middle of all those interactions Rajeev’s TWO words and Kakusa’s TWO words were drowned.

 

Rudra held her both upper arms and she was still holding onto his collar. He kept staring at her face. And she kept staring at him. He with relief and she with anger. There was always a mirror connection between Rudra and Paro. Their actions were mirrored at one point of time or another. It is just that today it happened within a matter of minutes.

 

Finally Rudra calmed down. Got his strength from her. And could see worry written all over her face. And he murmured, “ Mujhe Phone Karna Chahiye Tha. Maaf Kar de. “

 

The whole Ranawat family realised then that they were holding their breath. For a volcano to erupt. Two to be precise. From Rajeev and from Rudra. Luckily the danger was averted. As usual by the one and only who knows very well to keep the family intact. Paro.

 

Dhruv smiled at his Naana. Pulled his hand to bring the latter’s face down and whispered, “ Papa goes around shouting at everybody. Ordering everybody around. He only listens to Mummy.

 

Maithili walked to Myrah, “ Myrah, Jaane do na. Devarjisa ne bol diya toh maafi de do unko.” And she swifty took hold of Myrah’s hands. “Why are you troubling him so much ? Now be a good girl and introduce him to your parents. “

 

It was then that Myrah realised that it was Rudra’s first meeting with the Mehras. But before she could do the honors Dhruv came running  and took his father’s hand and took him to meet his new found Naana and Naani.

 

A Naani who was further pleased with the Damaad. A Damaad who might be a lion in the forest but still calms down in front of his lioness. A Naani who was extremely seeing the love. After all she did see ultimate love in Myrah’s eyes for Rudra and vice versa.

 

And the Naana was not as happy as the Naani. But it will do for the time being. Because he saw how Rudra the rogue elephant was tamed by Myrah the mahout. That made his mood better. Not that he is going to be nice to Rudra when they talk later. But for now Rajeev will be at his best.

 

And they did have their talk. Rajeev and Rudra. The two men in Myrah’s life. Both approached the other with caution after the earlier fiasco. Rudra did hear the sarcasm filled question from Rajeev. Though it did not register then he did remember it later. As a trained BSD office Rudra could hear and see even minor things which he can recall later. Though it might not register then and there. So he knew he has to be cautious with Rajeev.

 

“ I had gone after a lead in a kidnapping case. Of a daughter of a very influential person. Almost a week since the girl got abducted along with the friend. Still no clue about their whereabouts. And the trip brought back bitter memories of our past. When I thought I lost her. Which made me think of what if I had lost her forever. “ Rudra explained his day in a nutshell sitting in the living room to the Mehras late night.  The rest of the family had gone to sleep including Myrah. Mehras were there because of the jet lag. And Rudra was there because he could not sleep. Ironically Paro could always sleep even when she was in the midst of problems. That was one of her many traits which was just opposite of Rudra’s.

 

Rajeev and Poonam noticed the absence of an apology. And they realised that here was a man who will not say sorry unless he felt he did something wrong.

 

“It was her stupidity that day, you know. I asked her not to step outside the haveli but she went willingly with these two men to have a look at their saree collection.” Rudra mumbled something more after that but luckily the other two did not hear it thankfully.

 

Rajeev did not expect that. That his daughter can be so naive to trust two strangers and leave the house with them. But he was not yet ready to let go of his anger towards Rudra.

 

“ How did you find out about her whereabouts ?”

“ I got a call from the abductors”

“And why did they call you? And not me or her uncle? Were you saved as the favourite contact?”

“No. She asked them to call me. They were about to call her uncle.” Rudra did not mention Phata Doodh against his name which he saw in her phone

“And ? The kidnappers told you where they were so that you could go and find her and bring her back?”

Rudra stared at Rajeev. He could now see where this line of questioning was going.

 

“No they did not tell me.” Rudra wanted to add more but before he could answer Rajeev asked again

“And I assume you were quite intelligent to find out about her place so fast – on your own” The sarcasm was back. And Rudra heard it.

And then he thought about the day. About the events which unfolded - the phone call and then his drive to the building. He acknowledged in his mind first that it was her presence of mind that saved the day. She could get the men to call Rudra and she herself gave him clues about her surroundings that led him to her. Yep. She was intelligent. As she was most of the times J

Rudra grudgingly told the Mehras the truth. And looked them in the eye.

“I got your point. She was stupid to go with them. But intelligent enough to lead me to the place.”

Rajeev gave in. Finally. Here was a man who was truthful. He might be short tempered. But he was straightforward. And that is one quality which has to be admired. Rajeev face relaxed a bit breaking the ice.

 

But Rudra continued being serious. He wanted to get this conversation completed. There was no time for niceties. “I need to talk about a few more things with both of you. Now”

 

It did sound rather ominous to their ears.

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Chapter 22

RR through our eyes (Chapter 22)

 

No edits from Mano (Multimedia) this week as she is on travel.

 

It was difficult for Rudra to explain his feeling in one word. If a counsellor had asked him at that moment, "How do you feel ?" Rudra could have said a lot. A man of few words would have been ready to put words to his feelings.

He was thirsty

He was tired

He was hungry

He was frustrated

He was impatient

From the time he left the haveli in the morning till now which amounts to around 7 hours he has been on the road. First to meet the informer who had called him in the morning. The informer claimed to have some information about the kidnappings which has happened in the recent past. The informer was found by one of his team members who was assigned to digging up more information  about the girl Radha who was abducted along with the minister’s daughter Megha.

Kidnappings are usually made so that the victim can be exchanged for money. And a ransom call is very important to confirm this. In most of the cases where there is no ransom call – like in this case at hand – the kidnapper has personal vendetta. Either against the victim or one of the victim’s family (a dead or a living person). There is another type of kidnapping where the victim is hand in hand with the kidnapper and usually helps each other to plan it. So that the elopement can be made to look like an abduction. And there are very few cases where it is next to impossible to understand the reason. Because there will be no relation at all. The victim could be such a random person who was chosen just because he or she was present there due to their ill fate. And till this informer came forward it looked as if the team has hit a road block and the case looked more like a random forceful holding.

Megha  had come to Jaipur along with a few other friends and stayed in a posh hotel for two days visting the tourist attractions in the city before proceeding for a wedding in a village near Birpur.  There were ten of them in total staying in the hotel. Six boys and four girls. The wedding was of their classmate Radha who was from Jetpur.

Yes, the first thing Rudra doubted was the possibilty of a girl from such poor background getting admission in a reputed college in the South. But there was nothing suspicious there. Radha, was a brilliant girl and had got selected in a scholarship program conducted by the religious college where Megha also enrolled in. The religious institution was known to reserve a big percentage of their seats for poor students from all over India who were brilliant.

With that clear explanation, the focus shifted to Megha. Last few days Rudra had gone through the history of the daughter of the minister from the South and probably knows more about her than she herself will ever know. The minister’s trusted security personnel were very forthcoming with all details of not only the girl but the entire family as well. Their only intention was to get Megha back home safe and sound. There was nothing which looked mysterious or out of place about her. No lover, no hidden husband, no family feud, no political rivals ( the minister was quite a popular one down South) no step brother or step sister with revenge. Zilch. The team had absolutely nothing more at hand to explore.

 

And that is when Rudra started thinking whether this is all about Megha or is it about her classmate Radha. Maybe she did not want to get married. Or wanted to go away with someone else.  Thus started another round of history digging. But here again it turned out to be a case of a very innocent poor girl who was looking forward to her wedding. A wedding to her childhood sweetheart. Who was a real hard worker and who helped her right through childhood to achieve her dreams of becoming a civil servant. It seemed ill fortune that she invited her rich friend and got herself kidnapped just before the wedding.

Rudra’s team had talked to all the other informers and leads. This was the only one remaining and that too so far away in Birpur. His team had been working endlessly for the last few days and were heaving a sigh of relief that Sunday is here. None of them had any energy left. And thus Rudra decided to follow up on the lead himself. Along with one of the security guys from the minister’s side.

They learnt from the lead that kidnappings were increasing in the villages. That too of kids and young girls. Usually there will be a ransom call and once the money is provided the victims will be let out somewhere in the middle of the desert at night. This was the only one where he came across a case with no demand for ransom. And this was the only one where more than a person was kidnapped at the same time. Usually these kidnappings were never reported – neither to the police nor to the BSD. Was always handled by the village people. By putting together their savings and offering it to the kidnapper. Most of the cases the sums asked were not very high. Once in a while the sum demanded was high and then they will go to ThakurSa and beg him for money. In the end money was always given to the kidnapper which led the poor to become poorer. The victims were never hurt. They always returned intact though they were almost starved for couple of days.

Rudra identified the pattern now. These were all connected to Tejawat. Rudra was aware that Tejawat had stopped all the fake weddings and related terrorism due to lack of people at his side. After all it was Rudra who was successful in reducing his team to next to nothing with the help of BSD. Tejawat was always on BSD radar. And rudra had enough clout in BSD to get alerted if any terrorist activities happened around Tejawat. Even after starting on his own Rudra was connected to BSD and acted as their special consultant in many border related cases.

 

Rudra wondered what Tejawat was up to now. Kidnappings that too of very poor people will not get him any money. He himself provided the ransom for a few. But Tejawat was not somebody to go around helping people without an ulterior motive. It has to be investigated. It must have escaped the notice of BSD as it had no direct bearing with the border activities. But for the more pressing issue at hand, he has to talk to BSD to get some intelligence about Tejawat’s men so that they can be followed in case this kidnapping also is somehow related to him. Maybe Radha was the target. And Megha, the minister’s daughter, just happened to come across the kidnappers and was also taken away. But if Radha was the target why was there no demand for money ?

The minister would have called them four times within the span of those hours. There are times when even the most powerful will be at the mercy of the villains and turn to God for courage and hope. Questioning their own career decisions. And the minister was no different. He was wondering whether he thrust his daughter in the mouth of danger by opting to be a public figure. Whether without knowing he made any enemies who were out to get his blood. Rudra could hear clearly the frustration in the helpless father’s voice. Worried for his daughter, yet not able to be physically present here lest the press make a field day of the whole affair. A father hoping against hope that the daughter will be found soon safe and sound. In the final call Rudra updated the minister about their line of thought and the possible connection with the local kidnappings. And disconnected the call promising to call him the moment there is a breakthrough.

Before heading back to the haveli Rudra discussed the further steps with the minister’s security. The ride back home was ridden with the flash backs for Rudra. The visit to Birpur did nothing to lift his spirits. Nor did the helplessness in a father’s voice. On the contrary he was reminded of all the atrocities the villagers suffered at Tejawat’s hands. The pain he himself went through when he lost many of his people in the Baarat encounter. Then his thoughts wandered to Shantanu and what happened to Paro years back. The pain she would have suffered when she was shot. The pain Rudra suffered when she was away for seven long years.

Rudra was sure his visit to Birpur will definitely be reported back to Tejawat by his aides. Tejawat also will be alerted to the fact that Myrah looks like Paro. If he is not already knowing this fact. Should be very careful going forward. Should tell Myrah also to be careful about where she goes and whom she talks to. Cannot afford to lose her again – neither to death nor to kidnapping. Come to think of it was Myrah’s kidnapping in some way connected to Tejawat? Should discuss this with Aman after going back to the haveli.

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

Soon after lunch the men shifted to the living room. And the ladies joined a bit later after giving instructions to the servants. Very rarely did the Ranawats have the servants to clean up after the lunch. But with marriage preparations going on and with so many people in the house it was not possible for the Ranawat ladies to handle all the kitchen chores.

The packets kept coming out from Poonam’s suitcase. Chocolates for the kids, superman costume for Dhruv and Sourabh. Barbie doll for Koel (it was her first) Multiple paints, brushes and games for the children. Beautiful gold bracelets and perfumes for the women. Watches for Samrat, Sumer , Kakusa and Aman. Such expensive gifts and so many of them would have looked like a showing off of wealth from anybody else. But none of the Ranawats felt it because each of the gifts had something very much to their liking – like the colour or the design or the precious stone selected – which showed that Poonam had checked about the likes and dislikes of each member of the household including Sunehri and family and taken those points into consideration while buying. And all this was achieved within the last few days. And this genuine affection touched the Ranawat family.

“Naani, yeh game toh bahut accha hai. Mujhe bahund pasand hai. How did you know I like it ? “ Dhruv asked Poonam. “Waise I can call you Naani right ? And you Naana ?” Dhruv addressed the last question to Rajeev.

“Ofcourse beta.” Rajeev replied before Myrah could give the same answer. And Myrah’s face suddenly lit up. She was the only one who was kind of lost and worried till then – obviously about Rudra’s absence.

And Rajeev noticed it. He put Myrah at ease,” He will be okay. Must have been stuck with the office work. He will be here anytime soon.”

“Yes Naana. Nothing will happen to Papa. He is very brave. And strong.  You know Naana, Papa saved Mummy from a bike accident. You should have seen the way in which he sprung into action and pulled Mummy out of the bike’s way from the middle of the road.”

“Accident? When and how? Myrah, you never told us. And Rohit, you also did not inform us!!” Poonam was quite angry with this new piece of information. Dhruv felt as if he has said something wrong. Because of him now Mummy and Rohit uncle got scolded by Naani. Dhruv’s worry was what caught Myrah’s attention than her mother’s anger.

“Dhruv, it is fine. You did not say anything wrong. “Myrah patted his head.

“Aunty, I do not know anything about this accident.” Rohit answered, clearly not interested in taking any misplaced blame.

Now Mehras’ eyes were on Myrah demanding an explanation. “Well, it was my mistake Dad. I did not see the bike and walked across the road. Luckily Rudra saw it and pulled me away in time. I knew you will worry about me. As I did not get hurt I did not mention it to you guys.”

“You need to keep your eyes open when you are walking on the road. Be careful is all I can say. Am glad Rudra was there to save you.” Rajeev sounded relieved.

“Rudra always protects Myrah. He is always present to save her. Whether from falling or from the bike or from the kidnappers!!” Shatabdi said it without thinking. And realised that she has dropped another bomb from the looks on the faces of Rajeev and Poonam.

Rajeev was clearly angry. Angry that her daughter got kidnapped and nobody informed him. He got up, first looked at Myrah and then at Rohit. Mohini had the brains to keep quiet for once. Kakusa tried to calm Rajeev. “Nothing happened to Myrah. Within a few hours Rudra found out about her whereabouts and got her back safe the same day itself.”

Rajeev did not even acknowledge Kakusa’s words. He was filled with the fear.  What if something had happened to her? What if he had lost her? Seven years back they had almost lost hopes on her survival. But God helped them through those dark times. Saved Myrah’s life though she lost all of her memory. Now again she went through another trauma and he was not even aware of it?

“You got kidnapped and they asked for a ransom. I just cannot believe such a thing happened. Who did it ? And you did not think it important enough to inform us?” Rajeev literally shouted at Myrah and kept asking her questions without giving her anytime to answer. “What else are you keeping from us? How could Rudra find you ? Thank God he saved you. But first tell me why were you kidnapped in the first place?”

 

“Bewakoofi thi iski. Because of her sheer stupidity and nothing else!!” came the angry reply in a reverberating voice. Rudra was back. And that was his first statement to Rajeev Mehra.

 

 

 

Chapter 21

RR through our eyes (Chapter 21)

Thanks to Mano (Multimedia) for the edits.

Thanks to Amy for writing 404 words !!
Thanks Diya for reviewing

Sunday brought lots of excitement and happiness in the Ranawat family. Everybody was up and about early in the morning including the children. Except the prospective bride and groom. Who were quite tired after their late night adventures in the terrace. There is no account of what transpired as it was quite dark. Windy. Chill and it was raining. The only witness to the couple’s time on the terrace was the moon. The full moon who peeped out of the clouds to have a glimpse of the long lost souls after years.

It was Sunehri who barged in and woke up Myrah. Myrah was in a dream world. Took her a while to open her eyes. The sun rays brightened the room quite well. Still she felt hesitant to get up. To let go of that nice cozy feeling. Her thoughts wandered to last night when he had walked up the steps to the terrace. How she had been in Rudra’s arms. How she felt as if she had reached her destination and did not want to move away from him. She blushed thinking about how close they were. Him whispering against her ears sweet nothings. And she trembling with feelings.

 

“Bhabhisa, abhi din mein sapnay dekhna band kijiye. Aapke Maasa aur Bapusa aayenge na ab ? Don’t you want to be ready by then ?” Sunehri’s words shook her out of her dream world. She wanted to tell Sunehri she was not dreaming. She was remembering the previous night. Well better to keep quiet. As such Sunehri is a big romantic at heart and has been teasing her and Rudra from the moment she came. Sunehri is such a sweet heart. Myrah could connect with her immediately. And Aman looked like a reserved young man. His admiration and respect for Rudra was quite evident on his face. Myrah liked him also instantly. Though she caught Aman looking at her with a curious expression a couple of times. Maybe it is her similarity with Paro that is behind it.

 

And it was Dhruv pulled Rudra out of his slumber. And the first time they saw each other that day was in the breakfast table. There was a knowing smile which transpired between them. Aman did see that. Which made him immensely happy. Happy for his Rudra. And for Rudra’s Parvati.

There were some major developments in the kidnapping case and Rudra had to leave for the office. He was not sure whether he will be able to be back before lunch. He checked with Myrah before leaving whether she will be okay about his absence when her parents arrived. She smiled and put him at ease, “ It is fine Rudra. It is more important that you find the missing girls. We are all here. And I know my parents. They will be fine.. Don’t worry. Please call me incase you will be late.”  Kakusa and Bhabhisa also told him to go ahead for his work. They will do their best to make the Mehras feel at home. They assured him. Rudra was thankful for once that he was part of a joint family. A man of few words Rudra would have found it difficult to entertain the Mehras if he had been alone. Even if he was present in the haveli.

Mathili was sitting with her daughter Naina in the divan in the living room. Dressing her up after her bath. Talking to her the only way a mother can to a baby. Words which make no sense to an outsider. Words which will make only the baby respond with smiles and vigorous movement of legs.

That is when she heard the car arrive. She went to the door to greet the Mehras. Her first impression of them was how good they looked together. The handsome Mehra and very traditional pleasant wife Poonam. Rohit had gone to pick them up enroute. He was collecting the luggages from the car. Maithili greeted them.

 

 

 At first she was a little apprehensive to talk to them. But it soon vanished when both of them talked in chaste Hindi. By the time they reached the sofa in the living room, Kakusa had come down and he took over. Maithili went to the kitchen to fetch water. Byt the time she returned Mohini was also present. Poonam asked Maithili about her baby, about how old she is, what is her name etc. Poonam was genuinely interested and chatting with Maithili. Only once did her attention waver from the conversation and Maithili looked back and saw the person who was the cause. It was Poonam’s own baby – Myrah who was happily coming down the steps. After that it was such a beautiful scene to watch. Myrah running to Poonam and hugging her. Mother and daughter exchanging details about the flight. Rajeev who had given up listening to Kakusa in the middle of a sentence and having eyes only for Myrah. Waiting patiently for the mother-daughter dua to realise that he is also in the equation. And his turn did come within a matter of seconds. There was only a slight hesitation – probably because of the war of words they had over Skype which Myrah told Maithili about – and after that the mother-daughter scene was repeated with the father and daughter. Maithili eyes were moistened looking at the affection the Mehras have for their Myrah. She could visualize herself and Samrat in the same position with their own baby – maybe not so vocal – but none the less as far as love and concern go.

“Myrah, will you keep talking to them here itself ? Or will you take them to their room ? Rohit had already kept all the luggage in the first floor room.” Maithli asked Myrah hugging her with one hand.

“Haan Jija. Jaa rahi hun. Mom, this Jija is so strict. She is making me do lot of work here.” Myrah joked about Maithili pulling her cheek.

“Yeah and that is needed also. Else how can a lazy bum like you be expected to do any help ?” Rajeev replied lightheartedly. By now he had seen only part of the family which Myrah adores. And he could already see clearly why his daughter loves them so much.

“Where is Rudra, beta ?” Kakusa inquired looking at Myrah.

“He had to leave for his office, Kakusa. The case he was working for – you  remember ? Something urgent came up. He said he will try to be here by lunch time. “

“How can he leave like that ? He should have stayed back to meet your parents. Why didn’t you stop him ?” Shatabdi  was not so happy about Rudra having left without meeting the Mehras.

Before Myrah could reply Kakusa pitched in,” Beta, kaam hai. It is a kidnapping case. Maybe the new intelligence can crack the case. Am sure Rudra went because it was urgent. I apologize on his behalf Rajeev-sa.”

“Oh no it is okay. Being a business man I know how important sometimes office work can be. And how we have to be present to take care of emergencies. It is perfectly fine. It is not like he has gone out of station. We will meet him in the evening.” Rajeev assured Danveer that all is well

Rajeev was actually happy that his daughter has chosen a person who knows the importance of work. And though nobody else noticed Poonam did. And she too was happy that Rajeev was pleased though she herself was a bit disappointed that the future son-in-law did not stay back to meet them. But other things in the haveli did please Poonam. That this is a house where people (even the younger generation) can voice their opinion. And discuss and debate, be heard. That the inhabitants of the haveli are not one of those families where women are not allowed to speak. That Myrah has got a Jija in Mythili who seemed to be a very level headed person. That Kakusa has only genuine affection for Myrah. That the people around were not so serious and strict. The presence of Sumer and Shatabdi and the petty fights Mohini has with Shatabdi was enough to provide liveliness in the house. All these made Poonam happy. Also that the haveli was so big and well kept. Allow a mother some pleasures in the materialistic things which her daughter can enjoy. Things which are in her life partner’s house and not provided by her own parents.

Rajeev got ready fast and went down and sat with Kakusa, Samrat and Aman. Discussed about Samrat’s business, Kakusa’s BSD work before retirement and Aman’s current activities in BSD. While Poonam was getting ready in the room , Myrah was talking away to glory. And then four people entered Poonam’s room which made her take away the most talkative person title from Myrah. But she was not sure on whom she should confer this title now – Dhruv, Koel, Saurabh or Sunehri... It was a real treat to see Myrah become one of them. Pulling their legs, sharing stories, distributing the chocolates which Mehras had brought.

Poonam could not miss the bond between Myrah and Dhruv. It was an unmistakable mother-son bond. She was surprised to see it from her daughter who herself was a child. Usually children do not always appreciate the father getting married again. But here there was not even a trace of unhappiness or disapproval in Dhruv’s eyes. It was as if he wanted Myrah to be with them. Always. And that brought an indescribable relief to Poonam.

Shatabdi dropped in to get all the children for lunch. Dining table was not big enough to fit all of them. So children had their lunch first. And Sunehri also went down with them. Which left Myrah with Poonam. “Are you okay beta ? Taking your medicines on time ? You really scared us. Your father felt so guilty for getting angry with you over the call.”

“I am fine Mom. I don’t know what happened to me. You guys have all the right to be angry with me for changing my plans. I should not have reacted the way I did. It was my fault. Is Dad okay now ? Is he still angry with me ?”

“No he is not angry with you. He misses you though.” The answer came from the door. Rajeev was standing there looking at Myrah.

“Oh Dad. I am so sorry. Forgive me. For changing my plans at the last minute. For making you come down in such a short notice. I know you all wanted me to marry Rohit. But I can’t do anything about what my heart feels. Haven’t you heard love is blind ? Can’t you give us a chance ? Please be open minded when you meet Rudra. “

“Come on Myrah. You know us better than that. At the spur of the moment I did shout at you. But have we ever gone against you ?  Why do you think we came here ? We wanted to meet Rudra and family , to be sure ourselves that you have made the right choice. Don’t we even have that right as parents? And yes, we and Rohit’s parents would have been so happy if both of you got married. But then we are here. And let us not talk about the past. Let us try to take it forward. We will discuss this later. For now let us all go down and have lunch. And then we will take rest and be ready to confront your prince charming with a questionnaire. “ Rajeev smiled.

Myrah was finally at ease. There won’t be any war of words. “Can I add a few questions to the list?” she asked playfully while all the three of them went down to the dining hall.

The kids started eating their food as Myrah and her parents came down. Myrah smiled looking at the kids and went towards them. She ruffled Dhruv’s hair and giggled as he made a face and passed a smile to her. She always felt different with Dhruv. Sometimes even she couldn't understand how she loved him so much. Back in America she always used to get irritated with her relatives kids and didn't like them in her house but with Dhruv she felt a very strong bond, something pure and totally out of the world in fact the day she met him in the bazaar she felt an instant connection, an instant pull towards him. After meeting Dhruv her nightmares about a baby crying inside the cupboard also have stopped. Is there a connection? She wondered.

Her thoughts broke as Dhruv called her. “What happened Mummy?” He asked puzzled seeing her lost in her thoughts.

“Nothing Dhruv. I was just thinking about something” Myrah shook her head and smiled “What were you thinking Mummy?” He was suddenly very interested in knowing what his Mummy is thinking.

“Oh actually I was thinking that you’re not being a very good boy these days” Myrah said playfully and giggled looking at his face. Dhruv’s face fell thinking he did something he shouldn't have “Dhruv I’m just kidding. You are a very good boy. Okay now eat your food” Myrah laughed again and gave him a small hug. Dhruv smiled instantly and began eating his food again.

 

After few minutes Dhruv stopped eating and pushed the plate away. Myrah frowned looking at him, he didn't finish his food.

“What happened beta? Why aren’t you eating the food?”

“I don’t want to have more, I’m full till here” Dhruv pointed on his throat.

“Well Dhruv we don’t have our stomach in our throat, do we?” Myrah laughed and continued saying “but at least eat few more bites?”

“No Mummy, no more” Dhruv denied

“Please? If you want I can make you eat” Myrah smiled knowing he won’t say no.

“Okay but not too much” Dhruv smiled sheepishly.

He couldn’t say no his mummy. Myrah sat on the chair beside him and made him eat few more morsels of Aaloo Sabzi with Roti. Myrah made him eat the lunch while talking about his school and soon it was finished. Dhruv didn’t even realize that he ate it all until Myrah said “Finish!!”

“You finished the food. Give me a high five” Myrah grinned as they followed it with the gesture. She gave him a glass of water and went to put the plates in kitchen. 

Poonam who was a silent witness to all the interaction was reminded of her own days with Myrah. The affection which only a mother can have for the kid. The patience which nobody else will have for the kid. Poonam was pleasantly surprised by the bond her daughter shared with Dhruv - again. And viceversa. It was evident that Dhruv adored Myrah. Poonam heaved a sign of relief. Her daughter was lucky – she has a loving sister and a doting son.

Since Rudra was not back as promised Myrah tried his number. Not once but multiple times. But she was not able to reach him. She was upset not because he was not back. She knew there must be a reason for him to do so. She was upset because he did not inform her. And she was worried about him. But decided to not display it now in front of the family.

Soon the adults sat down for lunch. It was filled with variety of dishes, lots of talking, chaos and merriment.  The dishes were made taking into account everybody’s likes. There was at least one item which each person liked.  And yes, Mythili had taken care to check with Myrah about the Mehras’ choice too.

All the adults were sitting together and passing around dishes. Little did the Mehras know that the change was brought about by their own daughter. Mehras were pleased to see the family include Myrah and Rohit as part of their own even though they had known them only for the last couple of weeks. Even Rohit who used to take a lot of time to be quite friendly with strangers was at ease in the haveli. Rajeev was happy to see that the family is so lovely and warm towards everybody.

In the midst of all the discussions Poonam asked Myrah, “ You have found a sister in Mythili and a son in Dhruv. Have you also found a brother? ”

“Ofcourse. Aman” pat came the reply. Even Myrah did not realise what she just said till she looked up from her plate and saw a slight disappointment in Samrat’s and Sumer’s faces.

“That is not fair. Why not me ?” asked Sumer. Samrat did not ask the question but it was evident on his face.

“You both have a sister. Aman lost his only sister. So he is going to be my brother for life.” Myrah replied. It was an answer which came straight from the heart.

 

All were satisfied with the answer. Except Maithili and Mohini. Myrah looked at Maithili and she had a puzzled expression. And Mohini had a look which clearly suggested that her brain was working overtime. And finally Myrah looked at Aman. He kept looking at her. As if he was seeing her for the first time. Then a smile slowly spread across his face. A very genuine affectionate smile – specially reserved for his pyaari behna. So she remembers after all – Aman thought.

 

Quote: Family isn't always blood. It's the people in your life who want you in theirs. The ones who accept you for who you are. The ones who would do anything to see you smile, and who love you no matter what.