RECAP :
I am going back to Mumbai , today . I didn’t have the courage to say goodbye to you, I hate myself for what I did to you. Believe me Priya when I say , you are better off without me. I don’t deserve your love .The best birthday gift I could ever give you is me staying out of your life . . I am sorry .If you need anything just call me let me know.. RAM And Priya crumbled down with the letter gripped in her hand It happened one Night ...
PART 13
Here she was exactly 30 days after that day , standing in front of Kapoor Industries Head quarters, Mumbai .It imposing high-rise building consisting of two office towers joined by an atrium; and the entrance building, which visually links the main office to the high-rise towers and provides a clearly identifiable main entrance from the north . The Main office was Ram’s office.. she knew that .
Last 30 days she had thought 30,000 times about coming here. It 7 was in the evening , everybody was starting to leave the building to go home . She was only one wanting in .
She had waited for him to call her, he didn’t not . Not a single time. She knew he was in touch with the coordinator and Ghanshyam . Ghanshyam had told her innocently praising Ram for what he did for him. She knew that he was overlooking the Hospital work also.. it had also started. She didn’t go there because she didn’t want to .. without ram she didn’t want to ..go anywhere. Pride stopped her from asking anybody about Ram .
Last 30 days there was not a single second in which she didn’t miss him… she missed him , his smile, his voice , his eyes, his warmth his existence and him. She needed an answer to the question that haunted her for 30 days .. why did he leave her? She wanted to know that …
One thing she definitely he knew.. he was running away from her .. why was he running…? Because he didn’t want this marriage ? or he didn’t like her … No … The Ram she knew for that one month , wanted her needed her and she was almost sure loved her. No He didn’t tell her …. Not a single word.. but she knew it for a fact like the fact she loved him and needed him in her life.
He may deny it, hide it from her. She knew it .. because every time their eyes met she knew ,every time he touched her she knew, every time he called her name she knew.. yes the last time they made love was proof enough.. but she wanted to know why he left her.. why did he leave her without saying goodbye..
One month , she had enough times to go over every single minute she had spent with him .,everything indicted that he loved her. Today she was here to find her answers .. most probably win back her love.. She was no longer going to wait for him to come to her.. She was here to take him.. As the saying goes “” if Mohammed would not go to the mountain, Mountain would have to go to Mohammed””. She was not going to let go without her fight, even if the fight is with Ram himself. She would fight demons, that enslaved him, that kept him apart her.. For that she needed to know what was all this about … and there was something she needed to share with him., She needed to tell him that she was pregnant … Yes She was pregnant .. She still couldn’t believe that she was actually pregnant. She didn’t know how the miracle it had happened.. her one ovary had done a miracle… what she had thought was impossible task had actually happened.
Ram claimed he didn’t want a child… but she knew he wanted it . She had seen it in his eyes every time he saw a child, the mouth was always on the denial, but his eyes always told her the truth..
It was time to face truth Mr Kapoor… this time I am not letting you go . She said to herself ..
She went ahead…to the reception counter Behind the solid sandstone desk, a very attractive, groomed, young woman smiled pleasantly at her. She was wearing the black suit jacket and white shirt I have ever seen. She looked immaculate.
“I’m here to see Mr. Kapoor
Do you have an appointment madam
No I don’t ..
Then I am sorry madam , Mr Kapoor doesn’t meet anybody without an appointment.
But He will meet me .. She said
For minute the Girl was stunned , She looked at me…
You are madam ?
Mrs Priya Ram Kapoor .
She immaculate pose crumbled .Her eyes opened with horror at realization. But she was still not convinced ,,
“Excuse me one moment, Madam .” She arches her eyebrow slightly as Priya stand self-consciously before her. She was beginning to wish she had atleast informed Vikram That She was coming . She tuck one of the escaped tendrils of her hair behind her ear as She pretend the girl didn’t see through her nervousness
.
“Sorry Mrs Kapoor .. The girl smile was more genuine now more warm. Mr Kapoor is in a meeting you could wait for him in the lobby of his office on 6 th floor mam, Mr Vikram shergill would join you shortly . You’ll want the last elevator on the right, press for the Sixth floor.” She smiles kindly at her, suprised no doubt, Priya tired to return her smile to assure her , but was too nervous.
Priya inwardly sigh. Thanking her, She walked over to the bank of elevators past
the two security men smartly dressed .
The elevator whisks her to the Sixth floor. The doors slide open, and She was in another large lobby – again all glass, steel, and white sandstone. She was confronted by another desk of sandstone and another young woman dressed impeccably in black and white who rises to greet me.
“Mrs Kapoor , Pleased to meet you madam , Mr Kapoor is in a confeditial meeting . we are not allowed to disturb him mam ,he doesn’t know you are here, could you wait here, please? The meeting would be over in another half an hour . Mr Shergill will be with you in a minute he is on a call .” She pointed to a seated area of white leather chairs.
Behind the leather chairs was a spacious glass-walled meeting room with an equally spacious dark wood table and at least twenty matching chairs around it. Beyond that, there was a floor-to-ceiling window with a view of the Nariman Point skyline and another view was the Arabian Sea lashing against rocks of Marine Drive..
Before she could sit , Vikram came to meet her … Priya, How are you? he said
How is Ram She asked
For a minute Vikram did not answer , then said let us go into my office we will talk in detail there.
He looked over to young women beyond the white sandstone desk, Jenny just inform Mr Kapoor when he comes out from the meeting , that Mrs Kapoor is waiting in my office.
His office is way too big for just one man. In front of the floor-to-ceiling windows, there’s a huge modern dark-wood desk that six people could comfortably eat around. It matches the coffee table by the couch. Everything else is white – ceiling, floors, and walls except, on the wall by the door, where a mosaic of small paintings hanging .
We sat on the couch .
Would you like to have something Tea coffee juice he asked
No Nothing vikram.. I came here to meet Ram . That is all and then she added How is he ?
Thank God , you came Priya. I was trying to reach you, Kartick said you were not talking to him also.. We just didn’t know what was happenening between the two of you.. I was desperate enough to make plans to meet you at Pilani .. if you hadn’t come to today…
Why what happened is Ram okay ?
He is fine health wise trying to assay my fears, but otherwise he is in a Bad mood … he has been this bad since the time he came back from Pilani. He doesn’t eat .. I don’t know when he sleeps nor does he goes out .. He lives in the office. And he works .. all through the night all through the day , that is all he does.. He has not talked me .. I tried so many times to talk to him.. He just doesn’t talk not one word. Not to me nor Natasha nor Neha… not even to his mother.. We don’t know how to reach him Priya.. What happened there in Pilani?. I thought everything was going on beautifully… Ram was happy .. I have never seen him that happy before ..but suddenly he came back and from then on he is like this..
I don’t Know Vikram .. everything was alright it was more than alright it was perfect… but I don’t know what happened that night , when Ram came back from the Clinic.., he was so much in pain… I didn’t know what and why .. but I knew something was hurting him. He didn’t tell vikram… He didn’t .. before I could ask he left .. just leaving a note that he was sorry. Something is hurting him, I don’t know what is hurting him.. I need to know..
Vikram do you know anything
I know something but if it will be useful I don’t Know, but Ram has not talked to me about this. I don’t know if this is connected to what happened to him in Pilani .. but you said it was after he came back from hospital .. I feel it is connected
Priya 10 years go Kapoor Industries faced a threat, one of our leading drugs process was comprised, and an adultrated drug went into the market . As soon as we came to know we withdrew the drug .. from all markets across the world including Us.. Ram went there to US controlled the damage, we were able to completely withdraw it overnight from shelf with almost zero human loss except for One child in India.. though the drug was not seriously harming drug , it’s side effects would have caused diarrhea, vomiting … but what happened with the Child was that the drug was given with combination of other drugs which led to death of the child… The Dr should not have given the drug to the child.. the drug was not for children definitely not for the what the child was suffering… But somehow it happened.. and the child died..
But what has this do with Ram …
Ram had signed the process.. Priya .. he hadn’t read the details, he was drunk that day . He trusted his Production head.. he just signed it without reading the process or the finer details
Did the parents blame him
No.. they were poor Priya. The Dr was banned..but we were let off with a warning , has the child did not die because of our drug .. but because Dr prescribed the wrong drug.. we were able to prove it so..
Then what ?
I don’t know Priya… you have to ask him… Priya. When we planned to get you two married.. we thought both of you would be happy .. you to loved each other so much
What she asked his interrupting him stunned trying to understand what he said you planned to get us married ? .
Shit …!.. Sorry .. Priya.
Tell Me Vikram!!!...
I knew Ram liked you 10 years ago And Karthik knew you liked Ram 10 years ago.. circumstances at time was just not right for you because of your health problems and Ram because of the adulterated drug case drove you two part
But how did Karthik know? I didn’t tell him about Ram .. He never knew about Ram at all
But He did see you with Ram .. Priya.
When ? she tried hard remember if she ever told Karthik about Ram.. She didn’t
Seeing me puzzled he elucidated That night Ram went to US… Kartik saw you two talking on the road in middle of the night. He said he saw you blushing for the first time when you mentioned about a special friend you met in Pune..
But after that he didn’t get to ask you anything , because you fell sick soon after. But he later he asked mamaji about whom you met there at Pune.. then it was easy .. to figure out it was Ram you were talking about
And I knew about girl called Priya because my children told us about you Priya. When they related how much of fun they had with you and Ram that day in the beach.. we were happy that atlast Ram had found somebody who could make him happy.
But things didn’t work out.. once again fate gave us a second chance when Natasha and Karthik fell in love..
Karthik came to me , asked me about Ram .. and then we realized both of you still loved each other… So we all…
What do you mean by we all?
Me Karthik, Natasha ,Ayesha, Neha , Sekar, Rajath and Juhi planned it out … We first made you two to meet at Mysore… then god helped us with the storm.. We thought you two would have sorted things out but you didn’t …So we were desperate , .. so
What the hell ? are you telling what ever happened in the wedding was actually preplanned… even the Rajath episode… you guys planned to be there when I and ram were…
He had the sense to be embarrassed Sorry Priya,We hoped it would happen… it was just matter of time Priya, the chemistry between you two was so explosive everybody could see it ..
Oh god… then that blackmailing by nuts…
Yes everything
oh God … how much of this Ram knows?
Nothing He knows nothing
I won’t be too sure about it Vikram said a voice from behind.. It was Ram .. her Ram ..
She was seeing him after 30 days … 25,92,000 seconds…. He looked gorgeous… beautiful she got up to see the man standing in front of her , and his mouth was pressed into a hard line… He was angry …
Ram… Vikram started …
Leave Vikram..
Magar yarr he said again
I said leave Ram said in a quiet voice …
Vikram looked at me.. I didn’t know what to say or do…
Vikram once again tried Ram Dekh yaar.. What we did was for your own good. You and Priya
Shutup Vikram .. I need you to leave .. Now…
Arey suno tho lo… Vikram pleaded
Nahi …
Then Vikram looked at me and Said .. Priya.. don’t let him do this to you .. don’t let him leave.. He loves you
ENOUGH !! said Ram .He had stepped forward
Vikram looked at Ram said.. Yeah Yeah I am going … then murmured Darpok kahinka..
loud enough for Ram to hear
Before Ram could say thing .. Vikram was out .
Now they were just two of them around ..He gazes at her, his expression dark, unreadable. his whole body was tensed, and there was anger … Priya felt her first twinge of pain or fear she didn’t know .. she was too nervous to know.
“Hi,” She said cautiously.
He didn’t answer, why are you here … he asked
Do you want something .. ? If you wanted something you could have sent a note
She shook her nod saying No
I wanted to see you
Why ? he asked
Because I love you I need you …. She wanted to say these words but knew those words would not help her.
I just .. wanted..
Look Priya … I am sorry There is nothing more in this relationship, … We have been forced into relationship.. by these numbwits… For all I know this marriage was drama
But Ram.. we are married for real .. the time we were together, was real
No .. Priya.. There is nothing there.. I don’t want to talk about. It is over. We need to move on…
Move on…? But why ?
Because I don’t want to be in that relationship, Sorry if I am hurting you but I cant give anything more in this relationship
So .. when did you decide this ?
What ? he asked
When did you decide that this relationship was over Mr Kapoor she repeated her question
When was it .. when you making to love to me or when preparing that damn clinic for birthday or when you were making feel like queen … when did you decide that you don’t want me or need me …
Priya.. I Ram started
I know you cant answer.. because you never did decide did you ?? because you will always want me .. need me … love me… You cant let go of me Ram … you never can .
No….. I need you to go out of my life… Priya
Why ? Ram She asked tears where ready to stream down face.. She wouldn’t let it .. What happened with the child 10 years ago wasn’t your fault …
For minute he was stunned.. the anger rose within him.. who told ? Vikram…? I will…
It doesn’t matter who told me.. what matters you can’t let something that happened in the past ,,, determine your future. Priya tired to make way into wall he built around him
Priya.. My past has taken away any future I might have … there is no future for me.. And I don’t want to drag you with me. Every time I feel there is future .. My past deed rears up its ugly head… I don’t deserve a future
No.. That is not true.. everybody has a second chance.. you also deserve it .. I want to be there with you ..
I cant offer you anything . his eye held a pain
I don’t want anything .. Mr Kapoor I want you .. His eyes didn’t meet her eyes.. if it had he knew he would take all that it had to offer
I just Cant
Cant or wont She asked
Both … so what now? Priya .. asked defeat setting in,, she couldn’t continue. The twinges in her stomach were getting bad.. She would fight an another day.. But she would fight .. If need be every single day in her life to break through that wall.. and get her man.
You Can leave .. Priya . There is nothing you could say or do to make me change my decision. I will send the necessary papers for you to sign…
I will leave and I will sign the papers you want to also…. But I will not stop loving you .. I know you love me, I can see it your eyes… there is no denying it. I will try till that stone in your heart dissolves .. I wait for that day … Till then bye.. No it is not a Goodbye she said. It is just a bye…
She looked at ram …..
“Priya, goodbye,” he said softly, and he looked utterly, utterly broken, a man in agonizing pain, reflecting how she felt inside. She tore her gaze away from him before she made utter fool of herself .. She needed to leave with some pride left .. if she looked she would change her mind and try to comfort him.
“Don’t hate me, Priya this for your own good “, his voice achingly sad. Her heart clenched anew and released a fresh wave of silent sobbing. She wanted to scream at him..but she knew it was useless now.. He walked with slowly upto the elevator . He pressed the elevator button, and the doors open. She climbed in.
The elevator doors closed, as it closed world whirled around. Her .. her stomach cramped…. incruciable pain stuck her abdomen … pushing her into personal hell.. she doubled and crumbled to floor.. She heard Ram voice shouting out , her Name… pain .. didn’t allow her to respond .. she could only moan…. She didn’t tell Ram about Her baby.. their baby.. …. She felt wetness gathering around her.. she opened her eyes to see that she was bleeding.. Oh God she was losing her baby ….
She called out through her pain … Ram…
I am here he said …
Priya !!
Priya made no response. The only sound she seemed to make was whimpers . even groan was beyond her capability
Priya !!! Jesus !! Priya!!
Ram !! She whispered.. she had to tell him now…
Tell me what happened .. are you hurt he said
Ram .. our Child…
For minute he was stunned.. Was she saying what he thought she was saying … Ram’s blood began to pund , and his breadth grew un even.. Priya was pregnant. He was barely breathing now.. something broke him out of the stupor .. it was the blood that was staining elevator carpet… she was bleeding
He swore under his breath , but his touch remained achingly gentle and soothing ..
Open your eye Priya .. He ordered softly
Look at me . Focus on my face.. Stay awake .. let me help you Priya.. Please
She kept repeating .. Ram our child Ram .. our Child..
Nothing will happen… Priya..
He picked her has carefully as possible into his arms….
Shouted out orders to get the ambulance..
Half an hour later Ram was standing outside the hospital room.. waiting impatiently.. He wanted her to be … he still couldn’t believe that Priya could be pregnant, they had actually made life together a child… this was a miracle.. why hadn’t she told him..
But guilt struck… why would she … he all but kicked her out . She had pleaded with him to give their love a choice.. but he actually threw her out … He was the cause for all this.. dammit priya was in this condition because him ..What if something happened to baby will Priya ever forgive him….. he dreaded it … he never wanted to see hate in her eyes for him.. Nothing should happen to the baby …. His baby… . Standing all alone in the corridor facing his worst fears.. made Ram realize the single fact of his life.. He cant live without her…
The Dr came out , Mr kapoor…. he called
Priya he asked almost as whisper.. she is fine sir,..
Ram sighed a sigh of relief
But Sir .. we couldn’t save the child. Sorry .
His worst nightmare was now a reality…
..Does she know he asked.
Yes sir I have told her.. She asked me to Call her Dr Sekar., Do you know sir..
Ram nodded.. I will call him , his her friend, Can I go in
Yes you may.. she is fine . Is this her first pregnancy sir..
Ram nodded.
Nothing to worry . It happens .
Ram Called sekar.. Told him and kept the phone down
He wanted to see her. Didn’t have the guts to face her
3o minutes later Sekar came in… Ram pointed out to the room.
Sekar went in .
Another 15 minutes later he came out …
He came and stood in front of Ram.
She is fine Ram.. and she wants to see you. Go in
Ram he finally asked shaking his head “ what are you doing . It is so obivious you love her. And I know Priya loves you as well.
Ram pressed his finger to his Temples , trying to stave off the pounding headache he never seemed to be without these days.” There are things you don’t know “ he said wearily , shutting his eyes against the pain . Things you could never understand
I don’t need not understand.. a miracle happened here Ram .. your love created miracle.
But .. My past … did me in again Sekar..
No .. Ram, It did not nor it was your fault. There were things.. that you have no control. This is one of them. Priya ‘s dr had warned that this baby .. may cross the first trimester and asked her to be careful.. So this was definitely not your fault .But .. one positive thing about this is .. Priya can have children. You can have children.. Don’t let it go .. Ram. Priya needs you now, go to her.
Ram went in , she was lying on white hospital bed. She looked pale , her eyes held a pain..that wrenched his heart. He knew how much she wanted this child.
He put his phone down on the side table, and the bed shifted under his weight as he climbs in next to me.
“Hush,” he breathed, and she wanted to pull away from him, move to the other side of the bed, but she was paralyzed. She couldn’t move and lie stiffly, not yielding at all. “Don’t fight me, Priya, please,” he whispers. Gently, he pulled her into his arms, burying his nose in her hair, kissing her neck.
Priya .. Iam so sorry
No you are not she said bitterly , yanking her face away
Don’t pretend something you are not and for sake one lie to me again . You never wanted this baby she let out a hollow brittle laugh
Ram lips moved several minutes before he managed to say “ I don’t like to see you upset
She looked at him with combination of disbelief and regret .. I don’t see how you could expect anything else
He swallowed , and finally he just said .. I want you back.
She didn’t say anything .
“I don’t want you tainted with my old life.”.. Priya.. that child was who died because of the adulterated drug .. was Ghanshyam’s child… His First child Priya.
She turned and looked at him
Yes.. I didn’t know until I saw his wife… When I saw his wife … my nightmare returned . I remember how she cried when the child died. That scene shook me to the core. My past was standing in front of me Priya,.. I didn’t know what to do. I left the Hospital the very same minute. Stood out on road not knowing what to do, how to tell you.
If only I didn’t drink that day.. signed that documents this would have not happened. It was that night at Pune when we first kissed.. I was so angry so frustrated with myself and way I behaved I drank… I just drank.. and when the document came in I signed without reading single I okayed it.
I didn’t want to children , because I didn’t want my dirty genes to pass to some innocent child. I am worse than my father, he didn’t kill anybody with his drinking I did…. I was just not fit to be father or a husband .
He shook his head as though the discovery still pained him. 'I wanted to kill myself,' he admitted unevenly. 'I couldn't understand how I'd been crass enough not to see it for myself. . . . My only justification was that I was so fathoms deep in love with you that I couldn't see anything but that....'
'So You loved me?'
'Love, in the present tense ... Did love, do love, will love....' Ram murmured softly, punctuating the words with tender kisses.
' You left me at the quarters....'
'Because I couldn't live with what I'd done,' Ram groaned. 'Can't
you understand that? I told myself it was only fair to let you go,
“Don’t hate me,” he breathes softly against her skin, his voice achingly sad. her heart clenches anew and releases a fresh wave of silent sobbing. He continued to kiss her softly, tenderly, She turned at looked at .. him .This is a man in need. His fear is naked and obvious, but he’s lost… somewhere in his darkness. His eyes wide and bleak and tortured.
And she gave in .
They lie together like this, neither saying anything for ages. She cried for herself for him and for the child they lost He just held her, and very gradually, she relax and stopped crying.
She called
What? He asked
“Ram. . . you are not your father Ram, you never will be. … you are not a drunk. Have you drunk after that Ram …
He noded his head no .. I have not touched alchol after that night Priya.
Then If you are to be blamed for drinking that night .. then I am also to be blamed because I made you drink. I kissed you that day because I wanted you . but I couldn’t handle it, so I blamed you .
With regards to child, you didn’t kill it .. I am sure Ghanshyam would never blame you for it. You actually saved his second child life. Ram… you did.. you are his God . There as not being day when he did not thank me for your help… I married you because I loved you for the person you are today, a wonderful caring humanbeing. Who will do anything to help another human.. it is that quality that made me fall in love you with.
You have to let go of anger for that man who sired you .you cant have this guilt o be the ruling factor in your life.. I wont let yourfather dictate your life through the grave. You would be a wonderful father , Ram . Don’t deny yourself the joy of fatherhood because of that dead man… you are not him . You have so much of love and devotion in you …. You will never be him.. you never was
Ram was still for several minutes , the only sound the low whoosh of his breadth as fought to control his emotions , He looked into her eyes .
I want to be happy Priya,, he whispered
You will be , She vowed wrapping her arms around him. You will be
After 30 days
Priya and Ram went back to Pilani. To handover the quarters .. Say they Good byes. The terms had started .
Ram went to met Ghanshyam and his wife. He insisted Priya to come along with him.
When Ram told the truth, for minute Ghanshyam and his wife were stunned hearing his confession. But Ghanshyam rose up… and said he never blamed him nor his company for that drug.. Infact he was surprised to even know Ram blamed himself for his sons death.
After talking to Ghanshyam… Ram felt more free.. He had nobody other than Priya to thank for ..s he made his life simple.. His life echoed with happiness and love.. There was no guilt no anger .. nothing but love . He held Priya hand more tightly as they flew back to Mumbai. The KM was ready for them, Niharika had now shifted into more Up range Apartment which suited her life style. She was happy with allowance and freedom to party.. The KM was now ready for new generation of Kapoors… He thought about his life ahead smile lifted is heart with happiness.
He leaned down to kiss her hand that he held, she looked at surprise at sudden show of affection . He just nodded said .. I love you he said
She just noded and said.. I Know.
At night
Hmm Mrs Kapoor are we ready..? He asked he said as he tugged his wife towards general direction of the four poster be in his room
She nodded, her breath coming in shallow, needy gasps.
"Good," he said, looking very male and very pleased with himself. "You'll like this even more."
His mouth slid down to meet his fingers, and Priya nearly bucked off the bed. "You can't do that!" she exclaimed.
He didn't look up, but she could feel him smiling against the tender skin of . "Yes, I can."
"No, you really-"
"Yes." He raised his head, and his slow, lazy smile melted her bones. "I can."
He made love to her with his mouth , teased her with his fingers, and all the while a low, rumbling pressure built up within her. The need grew until it almost hurt, and yet it felt wickedly delicious.
And then something within her exploded. Some deep, secret place she hadn't even known existed burst into light and pleasure, and her world was reduced to this one bed, with this one man.
It was absolute perfection.
Ram slid his body up the length of hers, wrapping his arms around her as she slowly drifted back to earth It was her, he realized. Priya There was nothing in life that couldn't be made better with one of her smiles, and bringing her pleasure had touched his very soul.
"Happy?" he murmured.
She nodded, looking drowsy and sated and very, very well-loved.
He leaned in and nuzzled her neck. "There's more and more and more and more ...."
"My god how much more ."
"Oh, I think we'll manage." Ram chuckled as he rolled over her, using his powerful arms to
hold his body a few inches away from hers.
Her eyes fluttered open, and she smiled up at him. She lifted one of her hands to touch his cheek. "You're such a strong man," she whispered. "Such a good man."
He turned his face until his lips found the curve of her palm. "I love you, you know."
Priya's heart skipped a beat-or maybe it pounded double-time. "I do"
She stared up at him for several seconds, memorizing his face. She wanted to remember everything about this moment, from the glint in his dark eyes to the way his thick, black hair was falling over his forehead. And then there was the way the light hit his face, and the strong slope of his shoulders, and ...
Her heart grew warm. She was going to have a lifetime to memorize these things. "I love you, too," she whispered.
Ram leaned down and kissed her. And then he once again made her his.
Several hours later, they were sitting in bed, enthusiastically partaking of the meal the gopal kaka had left outside their door.
"I think," Ram said quite suddenly, "that we made a baby tonight."
Priya dropped her chicken leg. "Why on earth would you think that?"
He shrugged. "I certainly worked hard enough."
"Oh, and you think that one time-"
"Three." He grinned. "Three times."
Priya blushed and mumbled, "Four."
"You're right! I forgot all about-"
She swatted him on the shoulder. "That's enough, if you please."
"It will never be enough." He leaned forward and dropped a kiss on her nose. "I've been thinking." We should try one more time ... just to be sure
He then proceeded to do just that
Epilogue Tomorrow
I am going back to Mumbai , today . I didn’t have the courage to say goodbye to you, I hate myself for what I did to you. Believe me Priya when I say , you are better off without me. I don’t deserve your love .The best birthday gift I could ever give you is me staying out of your life . . I am sorry .If you need anything just call me let me know.. RAM And Priya crumbled down with the letter gripped in her hand It happened one Night ...
PART 13
Here she was exactly 30 days after that day , standing in front of Kapoor Industries Head quarters, Mumbai .It imposing high-rise building consisting of two office towers joined by an atrium; and the entrance building, which visually links the main office to the high-rise towers and provides a clearly identifiable main entrance from the north . The Main office was Ram’s office.. she knew that .
Last 30 days she had thought 30,000 times about coming here. It 7 was in the evening , everybody was starting to leave the building to go home . She was only one wanting in .
She had waited for him to call her, he didn’t not . Not a single time. She knew he was in touch with the coordinator and Ghanshyam . Ghanshyam had told her innocently praising Ram for what he did for him. She knew that he was overlooking the Hospital work also.. it had also started. She didn’t go there because she didn’t want to .. without ram she didn’t want to ..go anywhere. Pride stopped her from asking anybody about Ram .
Last 30 days there was not a single second in which she didn’t miss him… she missed him , his smile, his voice , his eyes, his warmth his existence and him. She needed an answer to the question that haunted her for 30 days .. why did he leave her? She wanted to know that …
One thing she definitely he knew.. he was running away from her .. why was he running…? Because he didn’t want this marriage ? or he didn’t like her … No … The Ram she knew for that one month , wanted her needed her and she was almost sure loved her. No He didn’t tell her …. Not a single word.. but she knew it for a fact like the fact she loved him and needed him in her life.
He may deny it, hide it from her. She knew it .. because every time their eyes met she knew ,every time he touched her she knew, every time he called her name she knew.. yes the last time they made love was proof enough.. but she wanted to know why he left her.. why did he leave her without saying goodbye..
One month , she had enough times to go over every single minute she had spent with him .,everything indicted that he loved her. Today she was here to find her answers .. most probably win back her love.. She was no longer going to wait for him to come to her.. She was here to take him.. As the saying goes “” if Mohammed would not go to the mountain, Mountain would have to go to Mohammed””. She was not going to let go without her fight, even if the fight is with Ram himself. She would fight demons, that enslaved him, that kept him apart her.. For that she needed to know what was all this about … and there was something she needed to share with him., She needed to tell him that she was pregnant … Yes She was pregnant .. She still couldn’t believe that she was actually pregnant. She didn’t know how the miracle it had happened.. her one ovary had done a miracle… what she had thought was impossible task had actually happened.
Ram claimed he didn’t want a child… but she knew he wanted it . She had seen it in his eyes every time he saw a child, the mouth was always on the denial, but his eyes always told her the truth..
It was time to face truth Mr Kapoor… this time I am not letting you go . She said to herself ..
She went ahead…to the reception counter Behind the solid sandstone desk, a very attractive, groomed, young woman smiled pleasantly at her. She was wearing the black suit jacket and white shirt I have ever seen. She looked immaculate.
“I’m here to see Mr. Kapoor
Do you have an appointment madam
No I don’t ..
Then I am sorry madam , Mr Kapoor doesn’t meet anybody without an appointment.
But He will meet me .. She said
For minute the Girl was stunned , She looked at me…
You are madam ?
Mrs Priya Ram Kapoor .
She immaculate pose crumbled .Her eyes opened with horror at realization. But she was still not convinced ,,
“Excuse me one moment, Madam .” She arches her eyebrow slightly as Priya stand self-consciously before her. She was beginning to wish she had atleast informed Vikram That She was coming . She tuck one of the escaped tendrils of her hair behind her ear as She pretend the girl didn’t see through her nervousness
.
“Sorry Mrs Kapoor .. The girl smile was more genuine now more warm. Mr Kapoor is in a meeting you could wait for him in the lobby of his office on 6 th floor mam, Mr Vikram shergill would join you shortly . You’ll want the last elevator on the right, press for the Sixth floor.” She smiles kindly at her, suprised no doubt, Priya tired to return her smile to assure her , but was too nervous.
Priya inwardly sigh. Thanking her, She walked over to the bank of elevators past
the two security men smartly dressed .
The elevator whisks her to the Sixth floor. The doors slide open, and She was in another large lobby – again all glass, steel, and white sandstone. She was confronted by another desk of sandstone and another young woman dressed impeccably in black and white who rises to greet me.
“Mrs Kapoor , Pleased to meet you madam , Mr Kapoor is in a confeditial meeting . we are not allowed to disturb him mam ,he doesn’t know you are here, could you wait here, please? The meeting would be over in another half an hour . Mr Shergill will be with you in a minute he is on a call .” She pointed to a seated area of white leather chairs.
Behind the leather chairs was a spacious glass-walled meeting room with an equally spacious dark wood table and at least twenty matching chairs around it. Beyond that, there was a floor-to-ceiling window with a view of the Nariman Point skyline and another view was the Arabian Sea lashing against rocks of Marine Drive..
Before she could sit , Vikram came to meet her … Priya, How are you? he said
How is Ram She asked
For a minute Vikram did not answer , then said let us go into my office we will talk in detail there.
He looked over to young women beyond the white sandstone desk, Jenny just inform Mr Kapoor when he comes out from the meeting , that Mrs Kapoor is waiting in my office.
His office is way too big for just one man. In front of the floor-to-ceiling windows, there’s a huge modern dark-wood desk that six people could comfortably eat around. It matches the coffee table by the couch. Everything else is white – ceiling, floors, and walls except, on the wall by the door, where a mosaic of small paintings hanging .
We sat on the couch .
Would you like to have something Tea coffee juice he asked
No Nothing vikram.. I came here to meet Ram . That is all and then she added How is he ?
Thank God , you came Priya. I was trying to reach you, Kartick said you were not talking to him also.. We just didn’t know what was happenening between the two of you.. I was desperate enough to make plans to meet you at Pilani .. if you hadn’t come to today…
Why what happened is Ram okay ?
He is fine health wise trying to assay my fears, but otherwise he is in a Bad mood … he has been this bad since the time he came back from Pilani. He doesn’t eat .. I don’t know when he sleeps nor does he goes out .. He lives in the office. And he works .. all through the night all through the day , that is all he does.. He has not talked me .. I tried so many times to talk to him.. He just doesn’t talk not one word. Not to me nor Natasha nor Neha… not even to his mother.. We don’t know how to reach him Priya.. What happened there in Pilani?. I thought everything was going on beautifully… Ram was happy .. I have never seen him that happy before ..but suddenly he came back and from then on he is like this..
I don’t Know Vikram .. everything was alright it was more than alright it was perfect… but I don’t know what happened that night , when Ram came back from the Clinic.., he was so much in pain… I didn’t know what and why .. but I knew something was hurting him. He didn’t tell vikram… He didn’t .. before I could ask he left .. just leaving a note that he was sorry. Something is hurting him, I don’t know what is hurting him.. I need to know..
Vikram do you know anything
I know something but if it will be useful I don’t Know, but Ram has not talked to me about this. I don’t know if this is connected to what happened to him in Pilani .. but you said it was after he came back from hospital .. I feel it is connected
Priya 10 years go Kapoor Industries faced a threat, one of our leading drugs process was comprised, and an adultrated drug went into the market . As soon as we came to know we withdrew the drug .. from all markets across the world including Us.. Ram went there to US controlled the damage, we were able to completely withdraw it overnight from shelf with almost zero human loss except for One child in India.. though the drug was not seriously harming drug , it’s side effects would have caused diarrhea, vomiting … but what happened with the Child was that the drug was given with combination of other drugs which led to death of the child… The Dr should not have given the drug to the child.. the drug was not for children definitely not for the what the child was suffering… But somehow it happened.. and the child died..
But what has this do with Ram …
Ram had signed the process.. Priya .. he hadn’t read the details, he was drunk that day . He trusted his Production head.. he just signed it without reading the process or the finer details
Did the parents blame him
No.. they were poor Priya. The Dr was banned..but we were let off with a warning , has the child did not die because of our drug .. but because Dr prescribed the wrong drug.. we were able to prove it so..
Then what ?
I don’t know Priya… you have to ask him… Priya. When we planned to get you two married.. we thought both of you would be happy .. you to loved each other so much
What she asked his interrupting him stunned trying to understand what he said you planned to get us married ? .
Shit …!.. Sorry .. Priya.
Tell Me Vikram!!!...
I knew Ram liked you 10 years ago And Karthik knew you liked Ram 10 years ago.. circumstances at time was just not right for you because of your health problems and Ram because of the adulterated drug case drove you two part
But how did Karthik know? I didn’t tell him about Ram .. He never knew about Ram at all
But He did see you with Ram .. Priya.
When ? she tried hard remember if she ever told Karthik about Ram.. She didn’t
Seeing me puzzled he elucidated That night Ram went to US… Kartik saw you two talking on the road in middle of the night. He said he saw you blushing for the first time when you mentioned about a special friend you met in Pune..
But after that he didn’t get to ask you anything , because you fell sick soon after. But he later he asked mamaji about whom you met there at Pune.. then it was easy .. to figure out it was Ram you were talking about
And I knew about girl called Priya because my children told us about you Priya. When they related how much of fun they had with you and Ram that day in the beach.. we were happy that atlast Ram had found somebody who could make him happy.
But things didn’t work out.. once again fate gave us a second chance when Natasha and Karthik fell in love..
Karthik came to me , asked me about Ram .. and then we realized both of you still loved each other… So we all…
What do you mean by we all?
Me Karthik, Natasha ,Ayesha, Neha , Sekar, Rajath and Juhi planned it out … We first made you two to meet at Mysore… then god helped us with the storm.. We thought you two would have sorted things out but you didn’t …So we were desperate , .. so
What the hell ? are you telling what ever happened in the wedding was actually preplanned… even the Rajath episode… you guys planned to be there when I and ram were…
He had the sense to be embarrassed Sorry Priya,We hoped it would happen… it was just matter of time Priya, the chemistry between you two was so explosive everybody could see it ..
Oh god… then that blackmailing by nuts…
Yes everything
oh God … how much of this Ram knows?
Nothing He knows nothing
I won’t be too sure about it Vikram said a voice from behind.. It was Ram .. her Ram ..
She was seeing him after 30 days … 25,92,000 seconds…. He looked gorgeous… beautiful she got up to see the man standing in front of her , and his mouth was pressed into a hard line… He was angry …
Ram… Vikram started …
Leave Vikram..
Magar yarr he said again
I said leave Ram said in a quiet voice …
Vikram looked at me.. I didn’t know what to say or do…
Vikram once again tried Ram Dekh yaar.. What we did was for your own good. You and Priya
Shutup Vikram .. I need you to leave .. Now…
Arey suno tho lo… Vikram pleaded
Nahi …
Then Vikram looked at me and Said .. Priya.. don’t let him do this to you .. don’t let him leave.. He loves you
ENOUGH !! said Ram .He had stepped forward
Vikram looked at Ram said.. Yeah Yeah I am going … then murmured Darpok kahinka..
loud enough for Ram to hear
Before Ram could say thing .. Vikram was out .
Now they were just two of them around ..He gazes at her, his expression dark, unreadable. his whole body was tensed, and there was anger … Priya felt her first twinge of pain or fear she didn’t know .. she was too nervous to know.
“Hi,” She said cautiously.
He didn’t answer, why are you here … he asked
Do you want something .. ? If you wanted something you could have sent a note
She shook her nod saying No
I wanted to see you
Why ? he asked
Because I love you I need you …. She wanted to say these words but knew those words would not help her.
I just .. wanted..
Look Priya … I am sorry There is nothing more in this relationship, … We have been forced into relationship.. by these numbwits… For all I know this marriage was drama
But Ram.. we are married for real .. the time we were together, was real
No .. Priya.. There is nothing there.. I don’t want to talk about. It is over. We need to move on…
Move on…? But why ?
Because I don’t want to be in that relationship, Sorry if I am hurting you but I cant give anything more in this relationship
So .. when did you decide this ?
What ? he asked
When did you decide that this relationship was over Mr Kapoor she repeated her question
When was it .. when you making to love to me or when preparing that damn clinic for birthday or when you were making feel like queen … when did you decide that you don’t want me or need me …
Priya.. I Ram started
I know you cant answer.. because you never did decide did you ?? because you will always want me .. need me … love me… You cant let go of me Ram … you never can .
No….. I need you to go out of my life… Priya
Why ? Ram She asked tears where ready to stream down face.. She wouldn’t let it .. What happened with the child 10 years ago wasn’t your fault …
For minute he was stunned.. the anger rose within him.. who told ? Vikram…? I will…
It doesn’t matter who told me.. what matters you can’t let something that happened in the past ,,, determine your future. Priya tired to make way into wall he built around him
Priya.. My past has taken away any future I might have … there is no future for me.. And I don’t want to drag you with me. Every time I feel there is future .. My past deed rears up its ugly head… I don’t deserve a future
No.. That is not true.. everybody has a second chance.. you also deserve it .. I want to be there with you ..
I cant offer you anything . his eye held a pain
I don’t want anything .. Mr Kapoor I want you .. His eyes didn’t meet her eyes.. if it had he knew he would take all that it had to offer
I just Cant
Cant or wont She asked
Both … so what now? Priya .. asked defeat setting in,, she couldn’t continue. The twinges in her stomach were getting bad.. She would fight an another day.. But she would fight .. If need be every single day in her life to break through that wall.. and get her man.
You Can leave .. Priya . There is nothing you could say or do to make me change my decision. I will send the necessary papers for you to sign…
I will leave and I will sign the papers you want to also…. But I will not stop loving you .. I know you love me, I can see it your eyes… there is no denying it. I will try till that stone in your heart dissolves .. I wait for that day … Till then bye.. No it is not a Goodbye she said. It is just a bye…
She looked at ram …..
“Priya, goodbye,” he said softly, and he looked utterly, utterly broken, a man in agonizing pain, reflecting how she felt inside. She tore her gaze away from him before she made utter fool of herself .. She needed to leave with some pride left .. if she looked she would change her mind and try to comfort him.
“Don’t hate me, Priya this for your own good “, his voice achingly sad. Her heart clenched anew and released a fresh wave of silent sobbing. She wanted to scream at him..but she knew it was useless now.. He walked with slowly upto the elevator . He pressed the elevator button, and the doors open. She climbed in.
The elevator doors closed, as it closed world whirled around. Her .. her stomach cramped…. incruciable pain stuck her abdomen … pushing her into personal hell.. she doubled and crumbled to floor.. She heard Ram voice shouting out , her Name… pain .. didn’t allow her to respond .. she could only moan…. She didn’t tell Ram about Her baby.. their baby.. …. She felt wetness gathering around her.. she opened her eyes to see that she was bleeding.. Oh God she was losing her baby ….
She called out through her pain … Ram…
I am here he said …
Priya !!
Priya made no response. The only sound she seemed to make was whimpers . even groan was beyond her capability
Priya !!! Jesus !! Priya!!
Ram !! She whispered.. she had to tell him now…
Tell me what happened .. are you hurt he said
Ram .. our Child…
For minute he was stunned.. Was she saying what he thought she was saying … Ram’s blood began to pund , and his breadth grew un even.. Priya was pregnant. He was barely breathing now.. something broke him out of the stupor .. it was the blood that was staining elevator carpet… she was bleeding
He swore under his breath , but his touch remained achingly gentle and soothing ..
Open your eye Priya .. He ordered softly
Look at me . Focus on my face.. Stay awake .. let me help you Priya.. Please
She kept repeating .. Ram our child Ram .. our Child..
Nothing will happen… Priya..
He picked her has carefully as possible into his arms….
Shouted out orders to get the ambulance..
Half an hour later Ram was standing outside the hospital room.. waiting impatiently.. He wanted her to be … he still couldn’t believe that Priya could be pregnant, they had actually made life together a child… this was a miracle.. why hadn’t she told him..
But guilt struck… why would she … he all but kicked her out . She had pleaded with him to give their love a choice.. but he actually threw her out … He was the cause for all this.. dammit priya was in this condition because him ..What if something happened to baby will Priya ever forgive him….. he dreaded it … he never wanted to see hate in her eyes for him.. Nothing should happen to the baby …. His baby… . Standing all alone in the corridor facing his worst fears.. made Ram realize the single fact of his life.. He cant live without her…
The Dr came out , Mr kapoor…. he called
Priya he asked almost as whisper.. she is fine sir,..
Ram sighed a sigh of relief
But Sir .. we couldn’t save the child. Sorry .
His worst nightmare was now a reality…
..Does she know he asked.
Yes sir I have told her.. She asked me to Call her Dr Sekar., Do you know sir..
Ram nodded.. I will call him , his her friend, Can I go in
Yes you may.. she is fine . Is this her first pregnancy sir..
Ram nodded.
Nothing to worry . It happens .
Ram Called sekar.. Told him and kept the phone down
He wanted to see her. Didn’t have the guts to face her
3o minutes later Sekar came in… Ram pointed out to the room.
Sekar went in .
Another 15 minutes later he came out …
He came and stood in front of Ram.
She is fine Ram.. and she wants to see you. Go in
Ram he finally asked shaking his head “ what are you doing . It is so obivious you love her. And I know Priya loves you as well.
Ram pressed his finger to his Temples , trying to stave off the pounding headache he never seemed to be without these days.” There are things you don’t know “ he said wearily , shutting his eyes against the pain . Things you could never understand
I don’t need not understand.. a miracle happened here Ram .. your love created miracle.
But .. My past … did me in again Sekar..
No .. Ram, It did not nor it was your fault. There were things.. that you have no control. This is one of them. Priya ‘s dr had warned that this baby .. may cross the first trimester and asked her to be careful.. So this was definitely not your fault .But .. one positive thing about this is .. Priya can have children. You can have children.. Don’t let it go .. Ram. Priya needs you now, go to her.
Ram went in , she was lying on white hospital bed. She looked pale , her eyes held a pain..that wrenched his heart. He knew how much she wanted this child.
He put his phone down on the side table, and the bed shifted under his weight as he climbs in next to me.
“Hush,” he breathed, and she wanted to pull away from him, move to the other side of the bed, but she was paralyzed. She couldn’t move and lie stiffly, not yielding at all. “Don’t fight me, Priya, please,” he whispers. Gently, he pulled her into his arms, burying his nose in her hair, kissing her neck.
Priya .. Iam so sorry
No you are not she said bitterly , yanking her face away
Don’t pretend something you are not and for sake one lie to me again . You never wanted this baby she let out a hollow brittle laugh
Ram lips moved several minutes before he managed to say “ I don’t like to see you upset
She looked at him with combination of disbelief and regret .. I don’t see how you could expect anything else
He swallowed , and finally he just said .. I want you back.
She didn’t say anything .
“I don’t want you tainted with my old life.”.. Priya.. that child was who died because of the adulterated drug .. was Ghanshyam’s child… His First child Priya.
She turned and looked at him
Yes.. I didn’t know until I saw his wife… When I saw his wife … my nightmare returned . I remember how she cried when the child died. That scene shook me to the core. My past was standing in front of me Priya,.. I didn’t know what to do. I left the Hospital the very same minute. Stood out on road not knowing what to do, how to tell you.
If only I didn’t drink that day.. signed that documents this would have not happened. It was that night at Pune when we first kissed.. I was so angry so frustrated with myself and way I behaved I drank… I just drank.. and when the document came in I signed without reading single I okayed it.
I didn’t want to children , because I didn’t want my dirty genes to pass to some innocent child. I am worse than my father, he didn’t kill anybody with his drinking I did…. I was just not fit to be father or a husband .
He shook his head as though the discovery still pained him. 'I wanted to kill myself,' he admitted unevenly. 'I couldn't understand how I'd been crass enough not to see it for myself. . . . My only justification was that I was so fathoms deep in love with you that I couldn't see anything but that....'
'So You loved me?'
'Love, in the present tense ... Did love, do love, will love....' Ram murmured softly, punctuating the words with tender kisses.
' You left me at the quarters....'
'Because I couldn't live with what I'd done,' Ram groaned. 'Can't
you understand that? I told myself it was only fair to let you go,
“Don’t hate me,” he breathes softly against her skin, his voice achingly sad. her heart clenches anew and releases a fresh wave of silent sobbing. He continued to kiss her softly, tenderly, She turned at looked at .. him .This is a man in need. His fear is naked and obvious, but he’s lost… somewhere in his darkness. His eyes wide and bleak and tortured.
And she gave in .
They lie together like this, neither saying anything for ages. She cried for herself for him and for the child they lost He just held her, and very gradually, she relax and stopped crying.
She called
What? He asked
“Ram. . . you are not your father Ram, you never will be. … you are not a drunk. Have you drunk after that Ram …
He noded his head no .. I have not touched alchol after that night Priya.
Then If you are to be blamed for drinking that night .. then I am also to be blamed because I made you drink. I kissed you that day because I wanted you . but I couldn’t handle it, so I blamed you .
With regards to child, you didn’t kill it .. I am sure Ghanshyam would never blame you for it. You actually saved his second child life. Ram… you did.. you are his God . There as not being day when he did not thank me for your help… I married you because I loved you for the person you are today, a wonderful caring humanbeing. Who will do anything to help another human.. it is that quality that made me fall in love you with.
You have to let go of anger for that man who sired you .you cant have this guilt o be the ruling factor in your life.. I wont let yourfather dictate your life through the grave. You would be a wonderful father , Ram . Don’t deny yourself the joy of fatherhood because of that dead man… you are not him . You have so much of love and devotion in you …. You will never be him.. you never was
Ram was still for several minutes , the only sound the low whoosh of his breadth as fought to control his emotions , He looked into her eyes .
I want to be happy Priya,, he whispered
You will be , She vowed wrapping her arms around him. You will be
After 30 days
Priya and Ram went back to Pilani. To handover the quarters .. Say they Good byes. The terms had started .
Ram went to met Ghanshyam and his wife. He insisted Priya to come along with him.
When Ram told the truth, for minute Ghanshyam and his wife were stunned hearing his confession. But Ghanshyam rose up… and said he never blamed him nor his company for that drug.. Infact he was surprised to even know Ram blamed himself for his sons death.
After talking to Ghanshyam… Ram felt more free.. He had nobody other than Priya to thank for ..s he made his life simple.. His life echoed with happiness and love.. There was no guilt no anger .. nothing but love . He held Priya hand more tightly as they flew back to Mumbai. The KM was ready for them, Niharika had now shifted into more Up range Apartment which suited her life style. She was happy with allowance and freedom to party.. The KM was now ready for new generation of Kapoors… He thought about his life ahead smile lifted is heart with happiness.
He leaned down to kiss her hand that he held, she looked at surprise at sudden show of affection . He just nodded said .. I love you he said
She just noded and said.. I Know.
At night
Hmm Mrs Kapoor are we ready..? He asked he said as he tugged his wife towards general direction of the four poster be in his room
She nodded, her breath coming in shallow, needy gasps.
"Good," he said, looking very male and very pleased with himself. "You'll like this even more."
His mouth slid down to meet his fingers, and Priya nearly bucked off the bed. "You can't do that!" she exclaimed.
He didn't look up, but she could feel him smiling against the tender skin of . "Yes, I can."
"No, you really-"
"Yes." He raised his head, and his slow, lazy smile melted her bones. "I can."
He made love to her with his mouth , teased her with his fingers, and all the while a low, rumbling pressure built up within her. The need grew until it almost hurt, and yet it felt wickedly delicious.
And then something within her exploded. Some deep, secret place she hadn't even known existed burst into light and pleasure, and her world was reduced to this one bed, with this one man.
It was absolute perfection.
Ram slid his body up the length of hers, wrapping his arms around her as she slowly drifted back to earth It was her, he realized. Priya There was nothing in life that couldn't be made better with one of her smiles, and bringing her pleasure had touched his very soul.
"Happy?" he murmured.
She nodded, looking drowsy and sated and very, very well-loved.
He leaned in and nuzzled her neck. "There's more and more and more and more ...."
"My god how much more ."
"Oh, I think we'll manage." Ram chuckled as he rolled over her, using his powerful arms to
hold his body a few inches away from hers.
Her eyes fluttered open, and she smiled up at him. She lifted one of her hands to touch his cheek. "You're such a strong man," she whispered. "Such a good man."
He turned his face until his lips found the curve of her palm. "I love you, you know."
Priya's heart skipped a beat-or maybe it pounded double-time. "I do"
She stared up at him for several seconds, memorizing his face. She wanted to remember everything about this moment, from the glint in his dark eyes to the way his thick, black hair was falling over his forehead. And then there was the way the light hit his face, and the strong slope of his shoulders, and ...
Her heart grew warm. She was going to have a lifetime to memorize these things. "I love you, too," she whispered.
Ram leaned down and kissed her. And then he once again made her his.
Several hours later, they were sitting in bed, enthusiastically partaking of the meal the gopal kaka had left outside their door.
"I think," Ram said quite suddenly, "that we made a baby tonight."
Priya dropped her chicken leg. "Why on earth would you think that?"
He shrugged. "I certainly worked hard enough."
"Oh, and you think that one time-"
"Three." He grinned. "Three times."
Priya blushed and mumbled, "Four."
"You're right! I forgot all about-"
She swatted him on the shoulder. "That's enough, if you please."
"It will never be enough." He leaned forward and dropped a kiss on her nose. "I've been thinking." We should try one more time ... just to be sure
He then proceeded to do just that
Epilogue Tomorrow
3 comments:
Awesome part
Awesome
Awed by this update...aww its going to over.. :/ good work girl :)
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