[42]
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Akash was sitting on a bench outside the emergency room, his mind racing with worry and guilt. He realised he needed to inform Richa's parents about her accident, but he didn't have his mobile. Panicking slightly, he rushed to the reception desk.
"Excuse me, can I please make a call? It's an emergency," Akash asked the receptionist, his voice trembling.
The receptionist, noticing his distress, nodded and handed him the phone. Akash quickly dialed Richa's parents' number.
"Hello? Uncle, it's Akash. Richa... Richa had an accident. She's in the hospital. Please come quickly," he managed to say, his voice breaking.
Within minutes, Richa's parents, Manav and Shreya, arrived at the hospital, their faces etched with worry. They saw Akash sitting on the bench, his head in his hands.
"Akash... Richa kaisi hai ab? Jyada lagi hai? How did this happen?" Manav asked frantically as they approached him.
Akash looked up, his eyes filled with tears. "I don't... I don't know, uncle," he choked out, his voice barely above a whisper.
"But hua kaise ye? Aur tumhe kahan mili?" Shreya, Richa's mother, asked, her voice shaking with concern.
"Aunty, wo... wo auto ka accident ho gaya tha jisme thi wo. And I was present there at that time so..." Akash explained, struggling to keep his composure.
Just then, the doctor emerged from the emergency room. Manav and Shreya rushed to him, their faces pale with fear.
"Doctor, how is our daughter? Is she okay?" Manav asked, his voice trembling.
The doctor took a deep breath and began to explain in medical terms. "She will be conscious after some time. There are no major injuries, but she required some stitches. She will need to rest and be monitored closely."
Manav and Shreya sighed with relief, though their worry was still evident. Manav turned to Akash, noticing the blood stains on his clothes.
"Beta, there is so much blood on your clothes. I think you should go home now," Manav said gently.
"No, uncle... I want to stay here," Akash replied firmly, shaking his head.
"Beta, at least go and rest for a while. Usse jab hosh aayega tab tak aa jana," Shreya said, her voice soft but insistent.
After convincing him multiple times, Akash finally agreed and reluctantly headed home. As he walked away, he couldn't shake off the guilt and worry that clung to him like a shadow.
As Akash trudged through the front door of his house, he was met with an unexpected storm of anger.
The house, which usually offered him solace, now felt like a battleground.
Dinesh, his father, stormed into view, his face a mask of fury.
Without any warning or preamble, Dinesh's hand shot out and slapped Akash with a force that sent him staggering.
The sting of the slap was sharp, and Akash's head whipped to the side, the suddenness of it leaving him momentarily dazed.
"What's wrong with you?" Dinesh's voice was thunderous, filled with a mixture of rage and disbelief. "You're a curse to this family! Because of you, Vihaan can't play cricket anymore!"
Akash's mind raced as he tried to grasp the accusation. "What are you talking about?" he asked, his voice shaking, the pain from the slap still stinging his cheek.
Dinesh's eyes blazed with unrestrained anger. "That day vihaan fell down the stairs because of you! Aur aaj hi reports mili ki wo ab cricket nahi khel sakta! You ruined his life!"
The words hit Akash like a hammer. He barely had time to react before his stepmother, entered the scene. Her eyes fell on the blood stains splattered across Akash's clothes. Her expression morphed from one of concern to one of cruel satisfaction.
"And now what?" Her voice was sharp, filled with scorn. "Who have you harmed this time? Have you killed someone? Taken someone's life with your misfortune?"
The words stung with brutal precision, each one a knife to his heart. Akash's knees felt weak, his legs trembling as he tried to steady himself. He had always tried to brush off their harsh words, but tonight, they pierced through his defences.
Dinesh's voice rose, each word dripping with contempt. "You've always been a source of bad luck, Akash. Your mother died giving birth to you. Your grandmother passed away because she couldn't bear to see you suffer. And now look at you-ab kiski jaan lekar aaye ho?"
Her step mother added her venomous remarks, her tone dripping with malice. "You were always a burden. Your presence has only brought misery. Just being around you is dangerous."
The weight of their accusations felt unbearable.
Each word seemed to pull him deeper into a chasm of self-loathing.
The reality of their words was crushing, and Akash struggled to breathe under the weight of their judgment.
He had always tried to ignore their harsh remarks, but today they felt like a crushing blow.
He stumbled into his room, his heart pounding in his chest. The familiar walls of his room seemed foreign now, like a cage trapping him in his misery.
He sank to the floor, his back against the cold, unfeeling tiles.
The room was eerily silent except for his ragged breaths and the occasional muffled sounds from the rest of the house.
His gaze fell upon the photo frame on his bedside table.
It was a picture of his friends at the reception, capturing a rare moment of happiness, them smiling togather now felt like a cruel reminder of everything he had lost. He reached for the frame with trembling hands, his heart heavy with regret and sorrow.
As he looked at the pictures of his mother and grandmother, the memories came flooding back.
He remembered how his mother had died during childbirth, how his grandmother had passed away shortly after, and how every joyful moment seemed to turn into a tragedy.
He recalled the night they had gone out for ice cream, a seemingly innocent plan that had almost ended in disaster.
The guilt and self-blame weighed heavily on him, making it difficult to breathe.
With tears streaming down his face, Akash held the photo frame close, his fingers gently caressing the pictures.
The weight of his father's accusations and the crushing realization of his perceived role in the tragedies left him feeling utterly defeated.
He looked at the smiling faces in the photograph and felt a sense of failure.
He whispered a broken apology to his mother, grandmother, his friends and to Richa, whose picture was also in the frame.
"I'm so sorry," he whispered through his sobs, his voice choked with grief. "I'm so sorry for everything."
The silence was punctuated only by his sobs and the occasional sound from the house.
Akash's heart was heavy with a burden that felt insurmountable, the weight of his father's words and his own self-recrimination pressing down on him.
He felt trapped in a cycle of guilt and sorrow, his mind consumed by the harsh realities of his life and the tragic events he felt responsible for.
The school auditorium buzzed with activity as students and teachers scrambled to prepare for the annual day event, just a day away.
The stage was adorned with colourful decorations, and the air was filled with the hum of conversations and the clatter of tools.
Amidst the chaos, Siya and Arushi were focused on sticking some final touches on the stage walls, trying to ensure everything was in place.
"Yaar, ye Richa ka roz ka hai," Siya complained, her voice tinged with frustration as she worked. "Absent ho jati hai bina bataye."
["This is her habit. To be absent without informing."]
Arushi, who was busy taping down a piece of streamers, looked over at Siya. "Haan, ek din ham dono bhi absent ho jate hain bina bataye, tab samajh aayega."
["We should also do this with her ."]
Siya raised an eyebrow and glanced around the bustling room, her attention catching sight of Shashwat and Reyansh walking in. Shashwat, looking a bit distracted, was talking to Reyansh, who seemed engrossed in their conversation.
"Akash bhaiya is also absent?" Siya asked Arushi, her concern evident in her voice.
"I think so," Arushi replied, her gaze shifting towards the entrance as she watched Shashwat and Reyansh approach. "Otherwise, wo inn dono ko akela nahi chhodte hain."
Siya frowned slightly, her eyes lingering on Shashwat and Reyansh. "Kahin wo dono school bunk maar ke date pe toh nahi chale gaye?"
["Could it be that both of them bunked school and went on a date?"]
Arushi snorted dismissively. "Hatt! Wo log aisi harkat nahi karenge."
Siya nodded, though she couldn't shake off her unease. "Hmm, you are right. But it's strange."
As Shashwat and Reyansh reached them, their attention was split between their respective partners. Shashwat greeted Siya with a warm smile, while Reyansh was busy in staring at Arushi.
Suddenly, Shashwat's expression turned serious as he caught sight of Reyansh's smile directed at Arushi. He stepped closer, his hand covering his eyes . "Tu meri behen ko dekhna band kar," he declared, his tone a mix of humor and protectiveness.
["Stop looking at my sister."]
Reyansh waved his hand dismissively. "Haan beta, tu meri behen se milne aadhi raat ko room me aa sakta hai. Aur mai dekh bhi nahi sakta!"
["Yeah, you can come to meet my sister in her room in the middle of the night, but I can't even see?"]
"Wo...wo, mai toh bas maafi magne aaya tha," Shashwat stammered, his face flushing slightly. "Maafi se yaad aaya, Mishti, please can you forgive me? I promise aage se mai kabhi nahi khaunga peanuts. Vidya kasam."
Siya's expression softened at Shashwat's earnest plea.
"Mat karna," Reyansh replied, his tone firm.
"Shut up!!" Shashwat retorted, his irritation briefly flaring.
Siya looked between them with a bemused expression. "Agli baar se aapke hath tod denge agar chua bhi toh," she warned with a hint of playful threat.
["Next time I will be break your hand."]
As the conversation continued, Shashwat glanced around to ensure no one was paying too much attention. He saw everyone preoccupied with their tasks and Reyansh engaged in conversation with Arushi. Leaning closer to Siya, he whispered conspiratorially,
"Whatever my Mishti says," causing her to step back with a blush, her heart fluttering at the close proximity.
Reyansh, noticing the exchange, intervened. "Kya chal raha hai ye?" he asked, his voice laced with suspicion as he separated them.
["What's happening?"]
"Reyansh, bas ho gaya. Aap dono apni hypocrisy band karenge ab?" Arushi said, clearly exasperated with the situation.
"Arre, mujhe kahan koi problem hai, but ye mere samne meri behen ke sath ye sab karega toh mai aur kya karun?" Reyansh retorted, crossing his arms defensively.
["Oh, I don't have a problem with it, but if he is going to do all this with my sister right in front of me, what else am I supposed to do?"]
"What do you mean by 'ye sab karega'?" Shashwat asked, his tone growing sharper. "I was just whispering something to her."
"Whatever! Mere samne mat kar. Mai bhi tere samne kuch nahi karta," Reyansh said, his irritation clear.
["Don't do anything infront of me. I don't do anything infront of you."]
Shashwat's eyes narrowed as he shot back, "Toh mere peeth peeche kya karta hai?"
["What do you do behind my back then?"]
Reyansh opened his mouth to respond, but before he could say anything, Siya cut in. "Vaise Akash bhaiya is absent today?" she asked, her concern returning.
"Hmm. It's strange," Shashwat replied, his expression shifting from playful to concerned. "He always informs us whenever he gets absent."
"Maybe he did inform us, but tab tak ham school aa gaye hon," Reyansh suggested, trying to offer an explanation.
"Accha, chal principal ma'am ke paas jaa rahe the ham," Reyansh said, grabbing Shashwat's arm and pulling him along. Shashwat, however, kept glancing back at Siya, his smile lingering as he reluctantly followed Reyansh.
After some time,Siya was standing near the decoration board, alone, meticulously decorating it. She thought Arushi was beside her and said absentmindedly, "Aru, tape dena."
To her surprise, she felt the tape being placed in her hand. Just as she was about to retreat her hand, someone grabbed it firmly. Her eyes widened in shock, and she turned to see Shashwat standing there with a mischievous smile.
"Aap?" she exclaimed, looking around nervously.
"Chodhiye hath," she demanded, trying to pull her hand away from his grip.
"Chudha lijiye," Shashwat challenged, intertwining their fingers.
"Aap pagal ho gaye hain kya?" she whispered urgently, still glancing around to see if anyone was watching them.
["Have you gone mad?"]
"Aapne kar diya haim" he teased, his eyes twinkling with amusement.
["You made me."]
As Shashwat reluctantly released Siya's hand, he leaned in closer, his proximity causing her to instinctively lean back in surprise. The suddenness of his movement left her breathless, her cheeks flushing a deep red as her heart began to race uncontrollably.
"Sh... Shashwat, aap kya kar rahe hain?" she stammered, her voice a whisper of both shock and confusion. Her eyes widened, not knowing whether to laugh or scold him for his boldness.
With a playful glint in his eyes, Shashwat leaned even closer, his breath warm against her ear.
"Pyar," he murmured softly, the word sending a shiver down her spine.
Before she could fully process his words, he reached behind her to grab a glue stick from the table.
Stepping back, he held the glue up, his grin mischievous and self-assured.
Siya's heart raced even faster as she looked from the glue to his face, her mind still reeling. "Jaan le lenge aap hamari kisi din," she said, attempting to match his playful tone, though her voice betrayed the fluttering in her chest.
Shashwat's eyes sparkled with amusement as he responded, "Aur aapne toh pehle se le rakhi hai hamari jaan." His words were laced with affection, and the way he looked at her made her feel both cherished and exasperated.
His grip tightened as he grasped her hand once more, his fingers warm against her skin.
Kanak's friend, Varsha, noticed something from afar. She squinted and pointed towards Siya and Shashwat. "Kanak, look at them. I think they're holding hands."
Kanak followed her gaze and saw the two. Her eyes narrowed, and her face turned red with anger. "Finally, she trapped my Shashwat," she fumed.
Sanvi, her another friend sighed, clearly exasperated.
"When was he ever yours? Kanak, I'm telling you for the hundredth time, let him go.
Just move on, yaar. If he already has someone else in his life, what's the point?
And he's given you clear hints that he doesn't like you. Have some self-respect at least."
"Shut up! You don't know anything. I saw it in his eyes that he loves me. He's given me hints himself," Kanak insisted, her voice trembling with conviction.
Sanvi looked skeptical. "Really? When? In your dreams?"
"Look, he never talks with any other girl except me. I was his first female friend," Kanak said proudly, puffing her chest out.
"Has he ever said that you're his friend? Even once?" Sanvi asked, raising an eyebrow.
"N...no, but..." Kanak stammered, but Sanvi cut her off.
"But you're just delusional, Kanak. I'm telling you this as your friend.
Just because he talks to you, doesn't mean he's interested in you.
Moreover, you were the one who always ran behind him.
If someone persistently tries to talk, what's he supposed to do?
Ignore you completely? He's just a good-hearted person who couldn't ignore you, especially since you're a family friend.
Stop this foolishness. You're an excellent student.
Focus on that," Sanvi advised, her tone firm but kind.
Kanak's face hardened. "You're not my friend... otherwise, you wouldn't say things like this. He is mine. Siya is just an attraction for him."
Sanvi rolled her eyes, fed up with the argument. "Fine, think what you want," she muttered and walked away, leaving Kanak standing there, fuming and conflicted.
Kanak stormed towards Shashwat and Siya, her eyes locked onto their intertwined hands. As she approached, Siya was clearly trying to free herself, her face flushed with embarrassment. Kanak's gaze fell on their hands, still held tightly by Shashwat.
"Shashwat," Kanak called out sharply. Both Shashwat and Siya turned their attention to her, their faces a mix of surprise and discomfort.
"Jo aage ki speech bolni hai wo ready ho gayi hai. Can you check it?" Kanak asked, her voice filled with feigned politeness. She held out the pages of the speech, a smirk tugging at her lips as she watched for Shashwat's reaction.
Siya took another attempt to pull her hand free, feeling increasingly shy under the intense gaze of Shashwat. Kanak expected Shashwat to release Siya's hand to take the pages, but he didn't budge. Instead, he glanced at Kanak and then back at Siya, his grip firm.
"Kanak, ye page mujhe de do. I will check it later. I am busy right now," Shashwat said nonchalantly, his attention still on Siya.
Kanak's smile was now genuine, a mix of satisfaction and irritation. She handed the pages over to him, her fingers brushing his as she tore off the relevant pages. "Sure," she said, her tone cold, and then she turned on her heel and walked away, her mind seething with frustration.
As Kanak disappeared from view, Siya turned back to Shashwat, clearly annoyed. "Dimag kharab hai kya? Ab Shashwat seriously chhodiye hath. Kisi teacher ne dekh liya na toh dono ko hath pakde pakde bahar phek denge," she said, her voice tinged with exasperation.
Just then, Monica's loud voice cut through the air, "Principal ma'am, aap yahan?" It was clear she was warning someone of the principal's presence.
Shashwat's eyes widened briefly in panic. He quickly released Siya's hand and began pasting stickers on the board, his movements hurried and flustered.
Seeing that the principal's back was turned and that everyone was preoccupied with their tasks, Shashwat took advantage of the moment. He reached for Siya's hand again, his touch fleeting but intimate. With a mischievous glint in his eye, he pressed a quick, gentle kiss on her knuckle.
Siya's breath hitched as she looked at him, her cheeks flushing even more. Shashwat flashed her a wink and darted away, blending into the busy crowd.
After the free period ended, Siya and her classmates were called back to their class.
The school day eventually came to a close, and Shashwat and Arushi found themselves driving home together. Shashwat suddenly pulled over near an ice cream parlor.
"Yahan kyun roka?" Arushi asked, surprised.
["Why we stopped here?"]
"Ice cream khani hai?" Shashwat asked with a grin.
["Do you want to eat ice cream?"]
Arushi's eyes lit up, and she nodded enthusiastically. "Maza ayega... Darsh ko jaa ke bataungi ki hamne ice cream khayi. Jal bhun ke rakh ho jayega," she giggled.
Shashwat ordered two ice creams, and they sat down at a table. He gently took her hand in his, his expression turning serious.
"Aru... I am so disappointed with you," he said quietly.
"Kyun bhaiya? Because of Reyansh and my relationship? Trust me, bhaiya, ham aapko batane hi vale the wo bas..." she was interrupted by Shashwat.
["Why? Because of Reyansh and my relationship? Trust me, we were going to tell you, just like that."]
"No... for hiding about that Vihaan. Aru, tu ek baar keh ke toh dekhti usko tere aas paas bhi bhatakne na dete ham. But tune apne bhaiyon pe bharosa bhi nahi kiya," he said, a note of hurt in his voice.
["Aru, if you had told us once, we wouldn't have let him come near you. But you didn't even trust your brothers."]
"Bhaiya, I trust you all more than anyone else. Mai bas shadi me koi tamasha nahi chahti thi. Siya ne aapko bataya hi hoga ki Ashi di ko kitne mushkil se itna accha ladka mila tha," she explained, her voice soft.
"Still. Ab jo ho gaya wo ho gaya, but you have to promise me ki aaj ke baad koi baat nahi chupayegi hamse," he said firmly.
"I promise," she said, pinching her throat in a playful gesture of sincerity.
"Accha, tu chahti hai ki Vihaan ko ham sabak sikhayen? Vaise toh Harsh uncle aaj uske parents se baat karenge but still agar tu chahe toh you have your three brothers who can break his face," Shashwat offered, his tone protective.
Arushi chuckled. "Nahi bhaiya. Ab uska naam bhi nahi sun na mereko," she said, shaking her head.
"I can't imagine what you went through. Aur this guilt is killing me ki mai apni behen ke liye kuch kar nahi paya," he said, caressing her head gently.
"Bhaiya, please... aapki koi galti nahi hai. It's my fault jo maine chupai ye baat," she insisted, her eyes earnest.
"Hmm... Reyansh ka behaviour sahi hai na tere sath? I mean I trust him but still tere muh se sun na chahta hun," he asked, his protective side showing.
["Hmm... Is Reyansh's behavior okay with you? I trust him, but I still want to hear it from you."]
"He is treating me better than I deserve," she said with a warm smile.
"You deserve everything," Shashwat said, kissing her head lovingly.
They then focused on their ice creams, the conversation taking a lighter turn.
Siya, Arushi Divya, Shashwat, Reyansh, Ritika ,Arav and Darsh arrived at the hospital, their faces etched with concern. They hurriedly made their way to the reception desk, Ritika leading the way.
"Ma'am, Richa Kapoor kahan admit hai?" Shashwat asked, her voice trembling slightly.
The receptionist glanced at the register, her fingers trailing over the pages. "Room no. 11," she replied calmly.
Without wasting a moment, they dashed toward Room 11, their footsteps echoing in the quiet corridor. They found Richa's parents sitting outside the room, looking worried but relieved to see the group.
"Uncle, wo kaisi hai ab?" Siya asked, her voice soft and filled with concern.
Richa's father offered a reassuring smile. "Ab theek hai beta... jada tension mat lo, accident bada nahi tha," he said, trying to ease their anxiety.
Just then, they heard a faint rustling from inside the room. Richa's eyes fluttered open, and she slowly regained consciousness. The group rushed to her bedside, their worry evident on their faces.
"Yaar, ye kaise hua?" Arushi asked, her voice a mixture of relief and confusion.
"Wahi to... tu to Akash..." Siya blurted out, only to bite her tongue in regret as everyone turned to look at her. Richa glared at her, her eyes warning her friend to stop, while Richa's parents exchanged puzzled glances.
"Akash?" Richa's mom asked, her confusion deepening.
"Tu to Akash me dekh kar chalti hai to obviously ye hona hi tha," Siya quickly covered up, forcing a smile to hide her slip.
["You were walking gazing at Akash (sky) so this happened."]
Richa sighed in relief, though her glare at Siya hadn't softened.
"Thank God, you're okay, Richa," Shashwat said, his voice sincere.
"Hum sab bahot darr gaye the," Reyansh added, echoing the sentiment of the group.
"Sorry, maine sabko tension mein daal diya," Richa said weakly, managing a small smile.
"Bas, ab jaldi se theek ho jaa phir ham dobara nail art karenge." Ritika said, her voice gentle .
"Tu to ab annual function mein part nahi kar payegi yaar," Siya said, making a sad face.
"Haan bhai, par ek hafte hain. Agar tab tak theek ho gayi to karungi, aur tum log ko baith ke practice dekhti rahungi. To aise practice bhi ho jayegi," Richa replied, trying to sound optimistic.
"Par agar tab tak theek nahi hogi to nahi karegi tu," Richa's mom interjected firmly, her voice leaving no room for argument. Richa nodded in agreement, understanding her mother's concern.
"Acha, wo Akash lekar aaya tha na? Wo kaha hai?" Shashwat asked, looking around as if expecting Akash to appear.
["Akash brought him, right? Where is he?"]
"Wo to ghar chala gaya... bechara kabse baitha tha, to hamne usse bhej diya ki rest kar le," Richa's dad explained.
["He went home... he had been waiting for a long time, so we told him to go and rest."]
"Bechara bahot acha hai. Hamari Richa ko lekar aaya aur dara hua tha bahot jada," Richa's mom added, her voice filled with gratitude.
["He's such a good person. He brought Richa and was very worried."]
"Haan, aur dare bhi kyun na? Bhai jaisa hai uske. Itna acha bond hai inn sabka," Richa's dad said with a warm smile.
["Yes, and why wouldn't he be scared? He's like a brother to them. The bond they share is really strong."]
At this, Richa's friends exchanged wide-eyed glances, trying to suppress their laughter. The idea of Akash being like a brother to Richa was clearly amusing to them, while her eyes widened.
"Acha, ye ghar kab jayegi?" Siya asked, her concern for Richa still evident.
"Bas aaj hi raat tak," Richa's father replied, offering a reassuring smile.
After some time, Richa's friends persuaded her parents to go and rest.
"Akash abhi tak nahi aaya," Richa remarked, her eyes searching the room for any sign of him.
["Akash hasn't came yet?"]
"Nahi. I think he must be tired " Siya replied, trying to sound casual.
Shashwat decided to call Akash but received no response. He tried two or three more times, but Akash still didn't pick up.
""Oh, the battery must have died. Why isn't he picking up the phone? He usually answers even at night," Shashwat grumbled to Reyansh.
"Pata nahi... aur Richa ko dekhne bhi nahi aaya," Reyansh added, frowning.
"Apna phone dena," Shashwat said, extending his hand.
["Give me your phone."]
"Arre meri personal chats hongi," Reyansh protested, holding his phone back.
["This has my personal chats."]
"Aisa kheench ke ek jhapad padega na, saari personal chats family chat mein leak ho jayengi," Shashwat said, making an unamused face , snatching the phone from Reyansh's hand.
["I will you give you a tight slap like this, all personal chats will end up leaked in the family group."]
Shashwat tried calling Akash from Reyansh's phone, but Akash cut the call.
"Yaar, tera kyun kaat raha hai?" Shashwat asked, perplexed.
"Kya?" Reyansh responded, looking blank.
"Call, stupid! Gandh dimaag," Shashwat said, hitting Reyansh's head lightly.
"What happened?" Siya asked, noticing their huddle.
""Nothing, just talking about Akash... he's either not answering our calls or cutting them," Shashwat explained, looking tense.
Siya decided to try Akash's number herself but got the same result. "Meri call bhi nahi uthaye," she said, shaking her head.
"So raha hoga, aap log pareshan mat hoiye... kya pata neend mein cut kar diya ho," Richa suggested, trying to calm everyone down.
"Par Shashwat ki call to wo raat mein bhi utha leta hai," Reyansh pointed out, adding to the group's confusion.
"Kuch baat to hai. Akash itna weird behave kyun kar raha hai, especially tab jab mujhe chot aayi hai... bina kisi reason ke har time mere paas rehne ka bahana dhoondta hai, par aaj mujhe dekhne tak nahi aaya, upar se call nahi utha raha. Ye alag hi baat hai," Richa thought, her mind racing.
In the evening, Richa's mom and dad took her home, assuring everyone that she would be fine. The friends exchanged worried glances but left for their homes, each pondering Akash's strange behaviour.
That night, Siya and Arushi were chatting late into the night, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of their phones.
"Yaar, tu mere ko bhi dikha na bhaiya romantic baatein karte hue kaise lagte hain chats mein ??," Arushi messaged, her curiosity getting the better of her.
["Show me your and bhaiya's romantic chats."]
"Bhakk, are you crazy? Tujhe kya sare doston ko na bhej dun," Siya replied, rolling her eyes at the absurd request.
"Please na yaar... sari nhi thodi, bas kuch kuch??," Arushi persisted, hoping Siya would relent.
"No????," Siya responded firmly, not wanting to share her private conversations.
"Tum log gandi baatein karte ho kya jo tu itna mana kar rahi ????," Arushi teased, trying to provoke a reaction.
["Do you talk dirty that you can't send?"]
"Ek thappad padega, sad gal jayegi ???? Acha mar, mat dikhate hain," Siya retorted, finally giving in to a small extent.
Siya took a screenshot of her and Shashwat's chat. She opened the gallery and selected the screenshot to send to Arushi, but by mistake, she sent it to Shashwat instead.
Shashwat , who was solving physics numericals, quickly saw his phone and messaged back, "Hein, pagal ho gayi ho kya? Why are you sending my chats to me?"
"Arre yaar, inko kaise chala gaya," Siya bit her tongue in frustration. "Wo to ham aapko dikha rahe the aap kitni achi baatein karte ho ????????," Siya replied, trying to play it off.
"Kahin tum hamari chats apni dono dosto ko to nahi bhej rahi thi?" Shashwat messaged, his suspicion evident.
"Arre nahi nahi, sach me aapko bheje ??," Siya messaged back, trying to convince him.
"Okkk, Mishti 3. Go and sleep now, padhna likhna to hai nahi, to raat mein der tak kyun jaag rahi ho! Good night," Shashwat messaged, teasing her.
"???? Personal attack karne ki jaroorat nahi thi. Good night," Siya replied, feeling slightly annoyed while he chuckled and replied,
"Good night Mishti ??."
"Bhej na, mar gayi kya ???" Arushi messaged, impatiently waiting for the screenshot.
"Bhag yahan se??" Siya replied, annoyed and embarrassed, then kept her phone on the table and went to sleep.
Next morning, at school, Reyansh and Shashwat were waiting outside the classroom, their eyes scanning the crowd for Akash. Just then, they saw him approaching.
"Akash yaar, kal se itna pareshan ho rahe the hum... tu call-" Shashwat started, but Akash brushed past them and went straight to the last bench without acknowledging his friends.
"Pagal, Why are you sitting here? Teri seat yahan hai na," Reyansh called out, confusion evident in his voice.
"Mujhe nahi aana," Akash replied coldly.
"Aise kaise nahi aana?" Shashwat said, exchanging worried glances with Reyansh.
["What do you mean?"]
Determined, Shashwat and Reyansh went to Akash's seat. They stood on either side of him and held his arms.
"Arre, leave me!" Akash protested.
Ignoring his protests, Shashwat and Reyansh lifted Akash by his arms and carried him to their usual seat.
"What's wrong? Kyun nahi baithna? Bukhar hua hai kya dimaag mein?" Shashwat asked, his tone a mix of concern and frustration.
["What's wrong? Why won't you sit? Is there a fever in your mind?"]
"And why weren't you picking up our calls yesterday?" Reyansh added.
"Aur Richa ko dekhne tak nahi aaya dobara," Shashwat pointed out.
"Kyunki mujhe ab aur tum log ke sath nahi rehna hai yaar.
.. Na hi tum dono ke na hi Richa ke. Mujhe ab sirf padhai karni hai.
.. Tum dono to topper ho aur tum log ke papa bhi tumhare par paise lutane ko taiyar rehte hain.
Par mera koi nahi hai. Mai apna kharcha khud uthata hun aur Richa ke sath rehne mein mujhe disturbance hota hai," Akash said, shocking Shashwat and Reyansh.
["Because I don't want to be with you all anymore.
.. neither with you both nor with Richa.
I only want to focus on my studies now. You both are toppers, and your parents are always ready to spend money on you.
But I don't have anyone. I handle my own expenses, and staying with Richa is distracting for me. "]
"Have you been mad or what? Richa sun legi to kya sochegi? Aur humne kya kiya? Hum to tera sath dete hain padhai mein," Shashwat said, bewildered.
["Have you lost your mind or what? What will Richa think if she hears this? And what have we done? We're here to support you with your studies."]
"Dete the. Jabse tum dono ki bandiya pati hai, tabse unke aage peeche ghoomte rehte ho bas," Akash retorted, making them angry.
["You used to support me. Since you both have your partners now, all you do is follow them around."]
"Pehli baat, tameez se baat kar. Bandiya kya hota hai? Arushi aur Siya tujhe bhaiya maanti hai aur tu unke liye aise words use karega ab?" Reyansh scolded Akash.
"Sach keh raha hun bhai, and I don't care about them. Bhand me jaye sab," Akash said dismissively.
Just then, his eyes fell on the doorway where Richa, Arushi, and Siya were standing, their faces hurt, especially Richa's, whose eyes were filled with tears.
"Arre.. wo Akash ko to janti hi ho, aise hi mazak karne ki adat hai isse," Reyansh said, trying to diffuse the tension.
["You guys no him. He is just kidding."]
"I am not kidding or joking. Mai sach keh raha hun, Richa mujhe distract karti hai. Khud ke to marks aate nahi, mujhe bhi fail karva degi. Aur ye dono ka to pucho hi mat, bas boyfriend ke alawa kuch dikhta nahi hai inhe," Akash declared.
["I'm not kidding or joking. I'm serious. Richa distracts me. She can't even manage her own marks and will drag me down with her. And don't even ask about these two; all they can see is their boyfriends."]
"Stop it Akash... ek aur baar badtameezi ki to mai bhi tameez bhul jaunga," Shashwat said angrily, stepping closer to Akash.
["Stop it, Akash. If you misbehave one more time, I'll forget my manners too."]
"Akash, is there any problem?" Richa asked, her voice trembling, tears streaming down her face.
"Niklo yaar yahan se. Mere ko aur bolne par majboor mat karo," Akash said, turning away.
"Tumhare papa ne kuch bola hoga pakka. Mai tumhe janti hun, tum sapne mein bhi aise badtmeezi nahi karoge. Jaroor koi baat hui hai. Batao, kya bola hai unhone ab," Richa insisted, stepping closer to Akash.
["Your dad must have said something for sure. I know you, you wouldn't misbehave like this even in your dreams. There must have been some discussion. Tell me, what did he say now?"]
"Bas Richa, tum hoti kon ho mere papa ko kuch bolne wali? Faltu ki bakwas ki to mai bhul jaunga mai kabhi tumse pyar bhi karta tha. Iske pehle mai chilane lagun aur tumhara tamasha ban jaye, niklo yahan se," Akash said harshly, making Richa more hurt.
["Richa, who are you to tell my dad anything? If you keep this nonsense up, I'll forget that I ever loved you. Before I start shouting and make a scene, get out of here."]
Siya quickly took Richa's hand. "Chal, Richa," she said, her voice filled with anger and disappointment, dragging Richa away.
During the lunch break, Richa, Siya, Arushi, Shashwat, and Reyansh were sitting in the canteen, each lost in their thoughts about Akash.
Shashwat broke the silence. ""It's something serious; I've known Akash since childhood. He wouldn't do something like this, not even by mistake." he said, his voice filled with conviction.
"But how to find out?" Siya asked, concern evident in her eyes.
"Abhi ruko, uss se koi kuch mat kehna. Jo bhi baat hai wo abhi fresh hogi uske dimag me, usse purani hone do, tab pata karenge," Reyansh advised, trying to keep a level head.
["Wait, don't say anything to him now. Whatever is going on will be fresh in his mind. Let it become old, and then we'll find out."]
Richa couldn't hold back her emotions any longer. She covered her face with her hands and started crying.
"Arre, pagal, shhh why are you crying? Sab thik ho jayega na," Arushi consoled her, while Siya patted Richa's shoulder gently.
"Wo already itna sab jhel chuka hai aur ab ye... I know his heart must be broken into pieces while saying all this to us," Richa said in between her sobs.
"Tension mat lo, hum hain na usko wapas se pehle jaisa bana denge," Shashwat reassured her, his voice strong and comforting.
Meanwhile, Akash was standing near their table, hiding behind a pillar and listening to their conversation. His heart ached hearing Richa's pain and the concern in his friends' voices.
"I am sorry, Richa and everyone. I just want all of you to be safe. I want to protect you all from every danger, even if it's me," Akash whispered to himself, wiping his tears. He took one last look at his friends before quietly leaving the canteen, determination and sorrow etched on his face.
After the break, all the annual function participants were gathered in the hall. The Principal stepped up to the podium.
"Attention, everyone," the Principal began.
"Some special guests are coming to the annual function, so we wanted to present a special play.
The school has decided that we will perform 'Romeo and Juliet.
'" The Principal continued. "Monica Ma'am will conduct the auditions in an hour.
Anyone interested in participating should start preparing for their audition.
And you all need to work hard as we have very less time"
With that, the Principal left the hall, and students began discussing their plans for the audition.
Siya turned to her friends with excitement. "Shashwat will be Romeo, and we will be Juliet!" she said, blushing with anticipation.
Arushi teased, "I hope iss baar bhi behen ka role na mil jaye."
Siya playfully hit Arushi on the head. "Not this time!" she said, smiling. They noticed Richa standing to the side, lost in her thoughts.
Arushi noticed Richa's distraction and reassured her, "Don't worry, Richa. Reyansh and Shashwat bhaiya will handle everything. It will be fine."
Richa nodded absentmindedly. "Hmm."
Just then, Monica Ma'am entered the hall with a clipboard. "Alright, students, please come to me one by one for the auditions," she announced.
The students began lining up for their auditions. Siya, filled with excitement, stepped out from backstage with a broad grin on her face.
"Guess what!" Siya exclaimed to Arushi and Richa. "I have been finalised for Juliet!"
Arushi and Richa immediately embraced Siya in excitement. "Sacchi?" they both asked eagerly.
Siya nodded enthusiastically. "Mucchi! But Shashwat hasn't come yet. The auditions for Romeo have already started."
After a few more auditions, a boy was selected for the role of Romeo. Siya frowned as she spoke to her friends, "Shashwat still isn't here. He missed his chance for the audition."
She made a face and added, "Shashwat se kabhi baat nahi karenge."
Just then, Shashwat walked over to Siya and her friends, looking curious and a bit out of breath.
"Kya hua? Where is auditions going on?" Shashwat asked, scanning the area.
Siya, with a mischievous smile, replied, "Meri khopdi par."
["On my head."]
Shashwat chuckled, "Oh, mujhe to nahi dikh raha." He checked her head with a teasing smile.
["I can't see it."]
Siya rolled her eyes and said, "Oh God, aap kitne funny hain. Hamara toh has-has ke pet dard hone laga."
["I am died by laughing."]
Arushi interjected, "Bhaiya, Romeo select aur final ho gaya."
Shashwat's face fell. "Kya? Par aise kaise?" he said, clearly frustrated.
Siya, crossing her arms, said, "Hame baat nahi karni. Socha tha hum dono sath mein practice karenge, maza aayega, par aapne sab kharab kar diya."
["I don't want to talk. I thought we'd practice together and have fun, but you've ruined everything."]
"I am really sorry, yaar. But koi to role hoga na?" Shashwat pleaded, looking over at Monica Ma'am, who was organising the audition process.
"What happened, Shashwat beta?" Monica Ma'am asked as he approached her.
"Ma'am, actually, is there any other character left in the Romeo and Juliet drama?" Shashwat asked, hopeful.
"Yaa, there are many," Monica Ma'am replied.
Siya, Arushi, and Richa, who had overheard the conversation, quickly made their way to Monica Ma'am.
"You are a good actor, Shashwat. I wanted to give you the role of Romeo, but I've already selected another boy. However, there is an important character left. I'd like you to play that part," Monica Ma'am said.
Shashwat's face lit up. "Yess ma'am, I promise I will do that," he said with enthusiasm.
"So, you will be Juliet's father," Monica Ma'am said with a smile, causing Shashwat and Siya to look shocked. The others had to stifle their laughter.
"I am sure you will give your best," Monica Ma'am added, before walking away.
Everyone sat down, and Shashwat sighed deeply. "Iss se to acha tha mai na hi karta," he muttered.
Siya looked at him and said with a hint of frustration, "Hey Bhagwan, hamare sath hi kyun? Last baar inko bhai bana diya, iss baar papa."
"Arre, koi nahi re. Tu Father ya Papa ki jagah Daddy bol dena," Arushi suggested with a grin, making everyone's eyes widen. Shashwat looked confused by this comment.
["Oh, it's fine. Just call Father or Papa 'Daddy' instead."]
"Chii kitni kamini hai tu," Siya said, punching Arushi lightly on the back.
"What's the matter? And tell me, 'Papa' and 'Daddy' mean the same thing. So, no matter what she will call me, the character remains the same, right?" Shashwat said innocently, not understanding the reaction.
He noticed everyone looking at him with blank expressions.
"Kuch nahi, Dadaji. Sorry, hamne galti se iss zamane ki baat kar li," Siya said, rolling her eyes. Shashwat looked at her, completely puzzled, as the others tried to suppress their laughter.
["Nothing, Grandpa. Sorry, we mistakenly talked about things from this era,"]
"I won't do this role. Hum jaa rahe naam vapas lene," Siya declared, her voice resolute.
"Mishti yaar, it's okay. I will take my name back. Tumhe itni mushkil se mila hai role," Shashwat said, trying to calm her down.
"Hame role nahi chahiye tha. Aapke sath stage pe dobara jana tha. But ab koi fayda nahi," Siya responded, her eyes shimmering with determination and a hint of sadness.
Inside the activity room, the walls were adorned with vibrant banners and colorful paintings, a testament to the students' creative efforts.
Arushi sat at a large table, surrounded by an array of paints, brushes, and sheets of paper.
She was meticulously working on a painting, her concentration evident in the way she furrowed her brow.
The room, though lively with ongoing preparations, had a peaceful quiet around her.
Reyansh, spotting her from the doorway, decided to join her. He walked over and pulled out a chair next to her. "Hey" he said, his voice warm and cheerful. "I thought to help you."
Arushi looked up, momentarily surprised to see him. "Reyansh, yahan kya kar rahe ho?" she asked, her tone a mix of curiosity and mild annoyance.
"Tumhari help," he said, settling into the chair beside her.
She raised an eyebrow but said nothing, turning back to her painting.
Reyansh, observing her focused expression, couldn't resist the urge to tease.
He reached over and gently tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear.
"There, now you won't have anything distracting you," he said with a playful grin.
Arushi glanced at him, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Jyada smart mat bano," she warned, her tone stern but her eyes betraying a hint of amusement.
"I'm just trying to help," Reyansh said innocently, though his eyes sparkled with mischief.
As he spoke, he reached out again, his hand lightly grazing her arm as he adjusted the paper she was working on.
Each touch was subtle, but it made Arushi acutely aware of his presence.
She tried to ignore the warmth spreading through her, focusing instead on her painting.
But Reyansh's presence was hard to ignore.
Reyansh, still teasing, reached over to help her mix some colors.
His fingers brushed against her hand as he took the paintbrush from her, his touch lingering just a bit longer than necessary.
"You know, you have this way of making even the simplest task look incredibly graceful," he said, his voice low and soft.
Arushi's breath hitched slightly at his touch, and she shot him a glare. "Reyansh, let me work," she said, though her voice wavered slightly.
Reyansh leaned in closer, his breath warm against her ear as he whispered, "I am helping you focus, aren't I?" His hand moved to gently brush a smudge of paint off her cheek, his fingers grazing her skin.
Arushi felt her heart race as Reyansh's touch lingered. She turned her face away slightly, but he noticed a small streak of color on her cheek. Without a word, he moved closer, his face inches from hers. His eyes locked onto hers, his touch tender as he rubbed the color off her cheek.
Arushi's breath quickened, her eyes wide as he leaned even closer. Reyansh's gaze softened, and without breaking eye contact, he bent down and placed a lingering kiss on her cheek. The touch was gentle yet electrifying, sending a jolt through Arushi.
He pulled back slowly, his lips still hovering close to her skin. With a smirk, he straightened up and said, "Concentrate on the work. Don't let me distract you too much."
Reyansh gave her one last teasing smile before standing up and walking towards the door.
Arushi, still reeling from the kiss, stared at him with a mix of shock and affection.
Her heart pounded in her chest as she watched him leave, the room suddenly feeling a lot more charged with unspoken emotions.
As Reyansh exited, he cast a final glance back at Arushi, his smirk widening. Arushi, now alone, tried to regain her composure, but the lingering warmth on her cheek and the echo of his kiss made it hard for her to focus.
At college , the bus was buzzing with excitement as students boarded, ready for the seminar trip. Arav entered, his eyes scanning for a particular seat. He spotted Ritika sitting alone in the middle of the bus and grinned mischievously.
"Good morning, Pran priye," he said cheerfully, sliding into the seat beside her.
Ritika looked up, clearly annoyed. "Yahan Simran baithne wali thi. Dusre seat pe baitho," she said, trying to sound firm.
"Simran ko jane do Raaj ke paas. Aapki jagah toh bas mere sath hai na, devi," Arav said, unfazed. He leaned back, making himself comfortable. Just then, Simran approached.
"Arav, I was going to sit here," Simran said, her tone slightly irritated.
"Pehle aana chahiye tha," Arav replied, not even glancing up from his phone as he began scrolling.
"Ritika, bolo isse kuch!" Simran insisted, her frustration mounting.
Ritika sighed, clearly caught in the middle. "Arav, jao yahan se," she said, trying to sound authoritative.
"Ma'am dekhiye inn dono ko," Arav called out to the teacher standing at the front of the bus. "Mai keh raha hun ki thodi der ka rasta hai, jahan seat mil rahi hai baith jao. But yahan toh friendships nibhani hai."
["I'm saying there's a seat available a little further, so sit there. But here, we need to uphold our friendships."]
The teacher, slightly exasperated, turned to address the situation. "What is this, Simran? Go and sit beside Priyanka," she instructed.
Arav smirked victoriously. As Simran reluctantly moved to the seat next to Priyanka, Arav couldn't resist a parting shot. "Aayi badi meri sautan ban ne wali," he muttered under his breath, loud enough for Ritika to hear.
As the bus continued its journey, Arav noticed a vendor selling assorted candies through the window. He remembered how much Ritika loved those.
"Bhaiya!" he called out to the vendor, who quickly approached the bus with his collection of colorful candies. Arav ordered a mix of flavors, and the vendor promptly wrapped them up in a paper bag. Leaning out of the window to make the exchange, Arav felt Ritika's curious eyes on him.
"Kya kar rahe ho?" Ritika asked, her voice tinged with suspicion as she noticed his proximity to her.
["What are you doing?"]
"Tumhe kya lag raha hai?" Arav replied teasingly, taking the bag of candies from the vendor and handing over the money. He then turned his attention back to Ritika, who was now frowning slightly, trying to maintain her stern demeanor.
["What do you think?"]
Ignoring her glare, Arav leaned even closer, his breath gently brushing against her face. Ritika's heart skipped a beat as she felt the warmth of his presence so close to her. She tried to maintain her composure, scrolling through her phone as if unaffected by his closeness.
Her eyes met his grey ones, which were twinkling with mischief.
He smiled and blew softly on her face, causing a few strands of her hair to flutter in the breeze.
Ritika closed her eyes instinctively, her heart racing and butterflies fluttering in her stomach.
She gulped, feeling a rush of emotions she tried hard to suppress.
Before she could react, Arav pulled back slightly, holding up the bag of candies. "Ye lo," he said, extending the bag toward her.
Ritika's frown deepened. "No thanks," she said curtly, her pride refusing to accept the gesture so easily.
Arav, unfazed by her rejection, swiftly snatched her phone from her hands. Ritika's eyes widened in shock, and she was just about to raise her voice when he swiftly popped a candy into her mouth, returning her phone with a triumphant smile.
"Thank me later," he winked, watching her as she processed what had just happened.
Ritika wanted to spit the candy out, her initial reaction being one of annoyance.
But as the sweet and tangy flavour spread across her taste buds, she found herself unable to waste it.
She settled for glaring at Arav instead.
"Uff, ye teekhi nazrein!" Arav exclaimed dramatically, placing a hand on his chest as if struck by her gaze. Ritika rolled her eyes, trying hard to hide the smile tugging at the corners of her lips.
As the bus made a brief stop, Ritika's eyes lit up upon spotting a colorful stall just outside. She grinned and tapped Arav's knee.
"Hato," she said, eager to get out. Arav glanced at her hand resting on his knee, feeling a rush of excitement and warmth from her touch.
"Kya hai? Hato na!" Ritika repeated impatiently. Arav nodded, a bit flustered, and moved aside to let her pass.
Ritika hurried to the stall, her excitement palpable as she browsed through the array of beautiful hairbands.
Arav followed closely, unable to take his eyes off her.
He watched as she picked up each hairband, trying them on and admiring her reflection in the small mirror at the stall.
Each hairband seemed to enhance her beauty, and Arav felt his heart skip a beat.
"Ritika, bus chali jayegi. Jaldi karo," Arav urged, trying to hurry her up but finding it hard to focus on anything other than her.
"Tumse matlab? Tum jao, kisi ne bulaya hai tumhe?" she shot back, her focus still on the hairbands.
"Ritika, ye ladne ka time nahi hai. Jaldi select karo," Arav insisted, his concern for missing the bus growing.
Ignoring him, Ritika continued to take her time. Arav's eyes fell on a particularly pretty hairband, and he picked it up, examining it closely. Ritika noticed him and turned her attention to him.
"I don't need any gifts from you. Isse vapas rakho," she said firmly, her tone slightly irritated.
"Par mai toh ye Aru ke liye dekh raha tha," Arav mumbled, his voice low, his expression blank.
"Whatever," Ritika muttered, feeling a twinge of embarrassment.
Suddenly, they heard the unmistakable sound of the bus engine starting. Ritika's eyes widened in panic as she saw the bus moving away.
"Bus!!" she yelled, her voice filled with urgency and fear.
"Shit!! Ma'am! Sir!! Koi toh suno," Arav shouted, running after the bus, but it was already too far. They both rushed towards the bus, hastily putting the hairbands back, but the bus soon disappeared from sight.
"Hey bhagwan!!" Ritika exclaimed, checking her pockets for her mobile, only to realize she had left it on the bus. She closed her eyes in frustration, feeling a wave of helplessness wash over her.
"Dekh kya rahe ho? Call karo kisi ko," Ritika snapped at Arav, desperation in her voice. He nodded, pulling out his phone, but sighed in defeat.
"Network nahi hai," he said, showing her the phone, his face mirroring her frustration.
"Ab kya karenge!" Ritika said, holding her head in distress, her mind racing for solutions.
"Ritika, calm down. Yahan se jyada door nahi hai Pune. Ham kaise bhi pahoch jayenge," Arav tried to reassure her, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder.
"Sab tumhari wajah se hua hai," she accused, her frustration and anger directed at him.
"Par what is my fault? Mai toh keh raha tha jaldi karne ko," Arav defended himself, feeling unfairly blamed.
Ritika shot him a sharp glare, her eyes blazing with anger and anxiety.
"Okay, sorry. Meri galti hai," he conceded, raising his hands in surrender, trying to defuse the situation.
Arav approached the man who was selling hairbands. "Bhaiya, hame yahan se koi bus milegi kya Pune ke liye?" he asked, his voice tinged with hope.
"Aage mil sakti hai beta," the man replied, pointing down the road.
"Chalen?" Arav asked Ritika, but she just started walking without a word. He quickly caught up to her, falling into step beside her.
As they walked, Arav kept stealing glances at her, noticing the tension in her every step. A mischievous grin spread across his face, and he began to sing softly.
"Gajab ka hai ye din socho zara,
Ye deewana pan dekho zara
Tum bhi akele ham bhi akele
Maza aa raha hai
Kasam se,"
He sang, his voice light and teasing. He nudged her shoulder playfully with his.
Ritika shot him a sharp glare, widening the distance between them as they walked.