Watermelon Diaries - The Finale

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Click To Read Episode Nine

I can not fathom how much I ran. Neither do I remember rushing by the evening tide, panting for breath, nor can I recollect the moment I fell asleep from weariness. However, when I opened my eyes, something felt new. Different. Good. In fact, I felt happier, the reason oblivious to me, but a sudden sense of excitement had overpowered me. My gait seemed to have suddenly awaken from a long bout of slumber, and all the exuberance of the world seeped into me.

And then, out of nowhere, the skies turned black, the land turned muddy, and I found myself drowning in utter confusion. My paws struck a solid ground, but before I could hold on to it, I realized my nose was melting, my eyes squinting, and my face rapidly turning into a cat. I shrieked.

I woke up a second time. Phew, what a nightmare! I shook my head, itched my tail, and looked around. The sun was sinking behind the mountains, revealing an aura of divine colors. Wait! Mountains? How did mountains come into this city? I have never seen mountains here before.

And then, from the horizon, I could see a faint trail, a line of dust sliding nearer and nearer. I stood rooted at the spot, ready to run in case of any danger. As the vision cleared out, I noted that the formation was none other than a large conglomeration of chihuahuas, walking in groups, the total number way beyond a few hundreds, or perhaps even thousands.

The leader of the group stopped before me, and greeted, "Woof! Welcome to the land of chihuahuas."

I was astounded. Where was I? "I have never heard of such a land before," I expressed my dilemma.

The leader smiled, and said, "That's because you never sought for this land earlier. You have always been engaged with your mistress, her house, her demands, not realizing that you too have a life of your own. You have enveloped your dreams all this long, the time has now come to open the letters. This is your life. You are free. Your will is your desire, and your ambitions define the path you take. Just like the path towards your left. I hope you will love it."

I looked towards my left, and was met with both shock and surprise. There, right in front of my eyes, was a large patch of watermelons. Ripe, and juicy, and green. Watermelons of all sizes, varieties and types.

I slurped.

"Go on," the leader laughed, "this is your world. Live your life to the fullest, and yes, welcome to our group. From now on, we will all share our smiles and tears, sadness and happiness, success and defeat. We are the inhabitants of this land, the land of chihuahuas."

I leaped towards the watermelons, not knowing from where to start. I was on cloud nine. I wished this wasn't a dream that would get broken in a couple of hours. Or perhaps it was.

But until then, I would relish this part of my life. For now this was my reality - me and my watermelon diaries.

Woof! Woof!

The End !!! 

Watermelon Diaries - Episode Nine

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Click To Read Episode Eight

The knock was loud, and the third one broke the door.

Three policemen barged into the house, revolvers held firmly. They looked right, then left, and then again right, and walked briskly towards the rooms. I, behind the shadowy confines of the living room sofa, recognized two of them.

"Ma'am, stand up!"I heard a booming voice coming from the kitchen. Probably, that's where my mistress was hiding, but her cover had been ruined. There were a few rapid whispers, probably conversations over a mobile phone, and in a couple of minutes, two lady officers made their way inside.

"Please, I am innocent. I didn't rob the bank," I heard my mistress pleading.

"Ma'am, we never said we are here for you. We are looking for a dog, a young chihuahua. However, you made it clearer, instead. What makes you think we suspect you of robbing the bank?"

There was an uncomfortable silence, and then, my mistress's wail zoomed into the air.

"Please, forgive me. I was helpless.I made the mistake. But I had no other option," she cried.

"And may I know why there was no other option?" an officer asked, mimicking her.

"I...I didn't want my chihuahua to get the money."

Her words felt like a bolt of lightening. I have served her for so long, been her companion since months, and yet, this is how she behaved? She used to say she loved me. Then, why all of a sudden she didn't want me to have the money?

And how did she know I was planning to rob the bank?

A lady police officer echoed my thought, and asked her the same question.

"I actually saw him roaming round the bank since the last few days. He was very observant, looking at every nook and corner, the windows and doors. I suspected that since I didn't pay him to buy the watermelons, he might take this route. And look, wasn't I right? If he had the money, he would become indisciplined, and no longer obey my orders." she tried to reason.

"Sir! Sir! We found the money. It was hidden under the mattress." I heard a voice filled with excitement hurrying across the bedroom.

"Ma'am! You are under arrest. You broke the law, robbing a public bank, looting the money deposited by citizens of this country, causing inconvenience to the society. Plus, you didn't let your pet have his watermelons, which made the innocent creature plan of such an extreme step. You have to come with us to the police station."

Tears welled in my eyes. My heart broke a hundred pieces, each of them cracking again in a thousand ways. She was my family. This was once my home. Now, no more. I was alone, all over again.

Through my mist stained eyes, I ran out of the door, as fast as I could, to escape from myself, and from this bitter truth.

Click To Read The Finale

Watermelon Diaries - Episode Eight

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Click To Read Episode Seven

By the time it was noon, I returned home, only to be greeted by my mistress's sharp words.

"Where were you all of yesterday? I had to buy four mangoes, two peaches and six bananas myself."

I went and sat besides her. That's what I always did, whether she was in happy mood or foul. I didn't know where else to go. This has been my home since long.

She patted my back and I licked her feet. The familiar scent greeted my nostrils, but, there was something different. I could sense the blocks amiss. What was fate hinting at?

I focused, and recollected the events of the past few hours. The bank, the empty vault, arrival of police, and me sniffing the ground, acting innocent.

There! Like a bolt of lightening it struck me. Hard! A little too hard for my liking.

Before I could assemble my thoughts, and complete the puzzle, I heard the sharp wail of siren. It was the Police Car. It could only mean one thing.

I have been chased all this while.

I panicked. I didn't want to go back to that jail. They didn't serve any watermelons there. I scurried for cover, behind the shoe rack, underneath the cupboard, beneath the bed. However, my confusion turned into conviction as I saw my mistress too going through a similar palpitation. She was sweating profusely, was running helter skelter, and muttering, "Why is the Police coming? Have they found out? Oh My God?"

It all became clear now. The scent, the bank, and home.

The puzzle had completed itself.


Click To Read Episode Nine

Watermelon Diaries - Episode Seven

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Click To Read Episode Six


Cats have always been sinister, spreading notoriety with their nine lives, but today, I was grateful to them.

"Here, check this out," my feline inmates pointed towards a brick in the wall. It looked ordinary, like all the other grayed out bricks, but it turned out to be different when one of them walked towards it and said "Meow!"

Instantly, the brick disappeared, leaving an opening, wide enough for me to get out.

"H...how did you do this?" I was shocked. This was magic!

"We cats can do anything. Now go. It's late in the night, and this opening leads to a tunnel straight out of the prison compound. You will escape unhurt."

"But how did the brick disappear?" I asked, dazed, "and why are you still staying in prison when you can move out any time?"

"You ask too many questions," the older one said exasperated. "Who said we are stuck here all day and night? We go out whenever we want, and return when we are hungry and need some safe place to rest. And regarding our magic, well this is your story. Let our story be part of another diary. Now go, go, run."

I leaped out of the opening, through the tunnel, and within a few minutes, was breathing the fresh aroma of freedom. I relieved myself behind a dense bush, and closed my eyes. It was dangerous to wander in this dark, and I thought it would be best to wait till day break. I yawned, my eyes droopy, and I slept.

I dreamt of all things weird. There were butterflies hovering over my head, laughing at me, and then suddenly they turned into watermelons. One, two, three, the watermelons dropped over my head.

"Ouch!" I woke up. The sun was high. Probably I had slept for too long, something which my tired body desired. Now was the time to spring back into action. I had to find the culprit.

I licked my paws, and ran across the streets.

Click To Read Episode Eight

Watermelon Diaries - Episode Six

  

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Click To Read Episode Five

Story Ahead ...

I was in jail. This wasn't something to be proud of, but it was a different experience altogether, and hence, the thought - "I am in jail!". My cell, or cage, was brown in colour, with patches of stains all over the wall. There were two more animals in the same cell, both of them feline creatures, a species I hate. They stared at me from the other corner of the room, and whispered among themselves.

I closed my eyes and counted till ten, took a deep breath, and counted again till ten, this time in reverse. Being with cats irked me. Firstly, they lacked manners. They did what they wanted to, without thinking of others. Secondly, they spoiled stuffs, milk, and eggs, and rice puddings, and most often even my watermelons. I hated them.

And thus I kept to my corner. Quiet.

"Did he really rob the bank?"

"He is too tiny. How will he?"

"But what if he did?"

"That makes him a criminal."

"Like us?"

"No. We only chased mice. His crime is greater."

"Meow!"

"Meow! Meow!"

I could hear their conversation. Clear. I have had enough. I barked in anger, "Shut up you two! Else I will teach you a lesson you will forever remember. I did not rob any bank, though I intended to. Someone had already escaped with all the money before I went, and the Police, thinking me as an associate of the accused, put me in this cell."

The two cats smiled nonchalantly among themselves, and the larger one spoke, "My! My! That's a sob story. Don't worry. We can help you out of here. We can set you free."

"Really!" My eyes lit up in amazement.

"Yes, really. But we do have a condition," the smaller cat spoke, licking his whiskers.

"What is that?" I eyed them suspiciously.

"We need no interference from you when we enter your owner's house in search of food. Deal?" both of them said in chorus.

This was a rough proposition. I was loyal to my Mistress. All of us dogs are. And to betray her would mean violating our morals. I was in a dilemma.

"Take all your time, but remember, the longer your think, the larger is the delay."

I took my decision. "I agree to your offer, only because I need to find out the truth and bring the robber to the forefront. But how will I get out of here?"

Click To Read Episode Seven

Watermelon Diaries - Episode Five

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Click To Read Episode Four

 

Story Ahead ...

I jumped at the open window, and immediately heard shouts.

"What is that?"

"A dog?"

"Whose dog is it?"

Always an attentive species, we have been conditioned to lift our ears and listen whenever we hear someone speak. I did the same, sitting on the window sill, grasping every words spoken. I imagined that they would help me, and bring back all the money to the bank, and next weekend, I would return to loot them all.

But no, I was woken up from my stupor by the firm hands that held me, and put down on the floor. I looked up, and what I saw were not voices of hope, but angry faces. The Police personnel surrounded me, growling and muttering among themselves, while I, acting as an innocent little chihuahua, sniffed the floor, their shoes, and socks.

All of a sudden, it struck me. Hard. Like a bolt. A lightening.


Before I could join the broken pieces of my thought, I heard a booming voice, from the Chief of the Police, "This dog must be an associate of the thieves. Probably they left him behind on hearing the sirens. Take him and lock him in the prison. We will see what we can get out of him."

And then, like the twists in stories I have heard of, I too had become part of one. Though I did not rob the bank, I was a culprit to be put behind bars, my primary concern being "Do they serve watermelons in prison?"

If not, then I had certainly dived into a deep mess. How shall I get out now?

Will the real culprit be arrested?

And will I get a second chance at changing my fortune?

I had no answer today. Probably, tomorrow.

Woof ! Woof !

Click To Read Episode Six

Watermelon Diaries - Episode Three

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Previous Chapters

• Episode 1
• Episode 2

Story Ahead

It was a Sunday. Just another lazy Sunday. People on the streets were immersed in their newspapers, tea and pets, while I, another pet, was strutting on the 7th Avenue, alone (but that was what I preferred now, 'cause I couldn't afford to have a company at this hour. Nope, I wasn't going to share my loot, neither my watermelons).

Soon, I turned around the sideways, and the large metallic gates of Regional Bank of Hoofs and Paws smiled broadly at the sun, reflecting the excitement stored within me. I was excited, and nervous, and joyous, and afraid, all at the same time, a conglomeration of emotions burdened my thoughts, but I was determined to not let my resolve dissolve. And thus, I walked around the building, grey and red, and golden in rays, searching for a window, or a small gateway.

And my eyes lit up. There was an open window (how could the bank be so careless?)

I jumped towards the opposite wall, and then at the window. Wow. I was flying (and would soon fly out with money, hurray!). Watermelons started revolving around my eyes! Slurp!

The bank was dark. The lights were turned off. But who needed light. I smelt the floor, trying to identify the fragrance of fresh currency notes, and then followed the trail. I had to be careful though. No alarms should be turned off. Not that it mattered. No one could imagine a dog robbing a bank. Let alone accuse one.

Gradually, I reached a large door, the vault, the types I have seen in movies, with revolving handles, and pristine white in colour, as if painted in ivory. But, something wasn't right. I racked my tiny chihuahua brain, nodding from left to right, wagging my tail from north to south, thinking, jumping, thinking. What could be wrong.

And, woof, this was wrong.

The door was open. It wasn't locked, nor was it wide ajar, but it was open, a bit. As I peeped inside, my eyes walloped out in horror. There was no money.

There was not a penny to be robbed.

Woof ! Woof !

Read Episode Four Here.

Watermelon Diaries - Episode Two

Previous Chapters

1. Episode One

Story Ahead

I know it has been a long time coming, but I have been busy. Really busy. In thoughts, and cats, and mice, and the occasional dragonflies.

And of course watermelon.

I look at the painting on the wall, and the sunset beyond the window, and all I see is red and green. Juicy pulp flowing through my tongue. Slurp.

Woof ! Woof !

I wag my tail in excitement, running round and round, and hit a table, returning back to my senses immediately.

"Remember, there is no watermelon," I sound harsh to myself, and rude, and obnoxious.

And pathetically poor.

And that's when I device a plan. The plan. To earn money, lots of money, so much that I do not need to beg in front of my mistress with droopy eyes. I will be able to buy my own water melon, hundreds of them, or perhaps even more.

Yes, I was going to be rich.

I had decided finally. To. Rob. A. Bank. You heard that correct.

This Sunday.

The Sunday.

Woof! Woof!

Watermelon Diaries - Episode One

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Four mangoes. Two peaches. Six bananas. These were what I was supposed to buy. Nothing less, nothing more. But my eyes couldn't resist; my nose lured me too, and here I was, standing in front of the water-melon counter.

When I reached home, I was carrying two big water-melons in my shopping bag. Those were extra. Those were not in the list. Not needed. Unnecessary.

"Unnecessary," she repeated, and I obliged, my eyes lowered, her gaze fiery. She took a step forward, I edged back, hitting the wall, my eyes till counting the floor tiles.

"You are strange. I have never seen a dog so fond of watermelons."

She was right. Chihuahuas love fish. They adore pieces of meat. And they love several other delicacies. But watermelons?

"Err. They taste so juicy. Yuck," my brother had told me, before we parted.

My parents didn't approve either. I didn't approve them too. And that was why they abandoned me.

And was adopted. To play. To cuddle. To shop.

But not to shop watermelons.

And then the worst happened. "Tomorrow onwards, I will give you only the exact money. For four mangoes, two peaches, six bananas. No wastages on watermelons."

I cried, I yelped, but in vain. And then I realized, I need to make my own money.

But how?

Read More

1. Episode Two

Love Is Winter

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They say love is divine. I say love is winter.

You were the snow flake that knocked at my window on that freezing morn. Through the haziness of the frost, and the dilemma of the mist, I welcomed you inside, opening the doors and unlocking the caskets that had accumulated dust over the years. I served you stories, and you promised completion, a happy ending for each one of them.

Outside, the mercury dipped. Inside, it felt so warm.

In this uncertain cold, I experienced bliss and pain and joy and fear, not realizing that summer had quietly crept in.

The snow flake vanished, just like that, leaving behind a smiling trail of the days gone by. Yet, I knew, that it was only a matter of time when it would reappear, knocking at my window on another freezing morn.

They say love is divine. I say love is winter.

So... What Next - Epilogue

Chapter 20


I was busy working in my office when I got a call from Sapna.

"Can you come home quickly today?" she said.

Never before had she asked me to come early in our two years of marriage. "Are you fine?" I asked nervously.

"Yes. Yes. I am absolutely fine. It's just that I want to spend some private time with you," she giggled like a child.

I liked her subtle display of romances. I wanted to run to her at the very moment. However, there was a crucial board meeting in the afternoon where I was to display a presentation. "I have a meeting today sweetheart. I will come immediately after that's over, OK?" I promised her.

The presentation went on longer than expected. When it was finally over, and the members were leaving the board room, I checked the wall clock. 5 PM, it said. I rushed outside and got into my car.

I reached home within 15 minutes. Sapna was sitting on the bed, watching some movie on TV. As soon as she saw me, she switched it off and came right in front of me, wrapping her arms around my shoulder.

"Wow. You seem to be in a romantic mood," I chuckled.

"Off course I am," she pressed my cheeks playfully, "and be prepared honey."

"Be prepared? For what?" I was surprised.

She hugged me tight, and whispered in my ears, "To welcome the new member in our family."

"What?" I shrieked in joy, "Are you serious?"

"Yes," she nodded happily, "The Doctor said I am expecting."

Nothing else mattered then. Life seemed to have given me everything that I had asked for, and more.



The End

Myriad Grains

                                                           (Image Source: http://www.oxherding.com)

Myriad Grains. Grains those lie low in the oceans, beyond the depth of vast expanses of water, hidden from the mob. Grains those lie under our feet, brushing against the rough skins of beach people, travelers and nomadic creatures. Grains those fly up in the air, flowing via the thick rays of sunlight, through open windows in the early hours of the day, signaling with them the dawn of a new era, an era marked by hope and ambition. A day heralds that brings with it unparallel enthusiasm, zeal and the desire to succeed. Yet the grains lie low, far away from the crowd, in their own desolate world, uncharted and desolately safe.

High up in the sky my gaze goes, and I am blinded by a sudden gust of wind. I rub my eyes in pain; confusion and anger slowly rising in my body, traversing the entire length of my vast torso, till it finally rests at the back of my mind. Dust winds are frequent in this part of the country, and are at their mischievous best at dusk. I was standing on the beach, with my fists rolling over my eyeballs. Grains of sand, though tiny, can make you cry, as I realized now.

My vision blurred as water started flooding my eyes, in pain, despair and helplessness. I tried to look through the tiny holes created by the joints of my fingers, and my sight stuck on a stray dog barking aimlessly at the roaring waves. Towards another side of the sprawling beach, I could see a couple getting cozy in the sand, pretty oblivious to the prying eyes that pierced through them. Finally, after much rubbing, I was able to vanquish the last bit of dust grain that had invaded my eyes. My vision gradually cleared, and the perception of view that I had earlier, changed. The dog was not barking at the waves. Rather it was howling at an emaciated human body that had some how been washed to the shore by the cruel waters. I stepped ahead and looked down straight at the decaying mass. It was withered, like a dead rose crushed on the roads under the wheels of a speeding truck.

It started to rain. However, I was in no mood to return. I looked around, trying to fathom and decipher more meaning in this unspoken land. The clouds billowed, attempting to shake me off, but I was not willing to run away. The dog was now galloping ahead in full speed, perhaps too scared of being gobbled up by the deathly combination of rain and sea. I moved in the direction of the cozy couples, but they were gone. Gone were the people surrounding them, and also gone were the other passers by who were aimlessly strolling in the beach. I looked up at the sky, and it was dark. The rain had suddenly stopped, making a mockery of my derailed condition. There was no moon, no star, just a thin veil high up in the horizon, which engulfed the entire beauty of the night. Somewhere far I heard the distant chatter of monkeys, probably enjoying a hearty meal with their families, reminding me of the loneliness that I was dwelling in. I wandered in the dark, blindfolded by a blackness that I was unable to get rid off.

My legs slipped and I fell in the sea. Sea not of water, but of sands, distant sands that looked so close now. I didn’t realize when I had become a part of them. The transformation had come too soon, too fast to be true. I felt relaxed, my mind finally gaining its composure, attaining a state of rest. There was no fear, no worry, no greed, no desire, no anxiousness, just a distant light that peered through the darkness, commanding me to embrace its formless structure. It promised me a new world, a better earth, where dog won’t drag out decayed bodies from water, where people wont become animals for their little greed and hunger. It promised me a new territory where I would rule according to my wish, and I pledged to fulfill the expectations that it had on me. Slowly it asked me to close my eyes. I obeyed, and in a fraction of second, had become a grain; a grain among myriad grains, ready to explore a world of its won.


This Prose is shared with Sunday Scribblings and the Prompt is Explore.

So... What Next - Chapter 20

Chapter 19


"You two talk, I am going to get some snacks," my Mom left the room, smiling.

The presence of Sapna in my room, chatting pleasantly with my mom, had left me stunned. True, this was something I had dreamt of so many times in the recent past. However, when your dream suddenly turns to reality, you are left standing shell shocked, forced to believe that somewhere the boundary between dream and reality had turned blur.

"Come sit down. Don't be afraid, consider this as your room," Sapna mocked.

"What ... How are .... I mean what are you doing here?" I tried to construct a meaningful sentence.

She nodded her head, "You are still so immature. Are you the only one who has the right to win back his love? Don't I need my love too?"

I sat down on the bed beside her. Every time I saw her, I fell in love with her. This time too it was no different. My eyes traveled towards her fingers, and the urge to hold them tight overpowered me with an unrelenting force.

I took her fingers in my hand. They felt warm and smooth. I brought them to my lips, kissing her slender touch. Her eyes beamed.

"I came to your house as soon as Mom and Dad returned home. They told me what happened in the Court, and how cordial you were. It didn't take me much long to realize that you were trying to impress them, to gain back the trust so that they happily agree to our marriage. Now, since you were trying so hard, didn't I have a duty too? I called up your sister, and she told me about last night. However, I knew that I would be able to win over your parents' hearts, and thus I showed up at your place as quickly as I can. Your mother was surprised too, she even started crying on seeing me. Perhaps, our parents had also wanted to see us married, but the past had left a deep scar on their minds. I hope things work well this time," she sighed.

Things would definitely work this time. "I am sorry about the past Sapna. I regret what I did. Every day and every night, your smile came looping in front of my eyes. You have been my Lady Life, my Love, and without you there will be no meaning to the air I inhale, the beats that my heart undergoes, or the pictures that my eyes behold. My world will be vague in your absence, as it was in the last few months. I want it to be colored, by the paint of your love, in the canvas of our trust. I am sorry Sapna, and I love you," I said everything in a single breath.

Sapna laughed, "You don't have to prepare a movie dialogue now. Cheer up. We are about to win. I am sorry as well, and yes, I love you too." She pinched my cheeks

Perhaps this was the best moment of my life. "Can I get a hug?" I asked. I really needed it.

"No. That will be your marriage gift," she chuckled naughtily.

She was still the same. Her habit of teasing me romantically had not changed. "What about your parents? Will they agree?"

"Yes. They will," she affirmed, "In fact my parents know I am here. The good thing is they didn't stop me from coming over to meet your parents. Once I return, I will convince them to talk to your parents, probably tomorrow or day after. After that, a date for our wedding will be fixed, and then, you will be all mine." She winked happily.

Life had indeed taken a sudden turn, to a much happier avenue. However, one thought suddenly struck me.

"What about your scheduled wedding?" I asked.

"Oh that? I had already called off the marriage the day you first came to talk to me outside my office. Perhaps, deep down in my heart I still trusted you, and I knew you would turn my belief into reality. Finally, love won. You did it," she was elated.

"I didn't do it. It's we who did it. There isn't any I or you now. It's all about we," my heart leaped in joy.


Epilogue

So... What Next - Chapter 19

Chapter 18


"Now I understand why you wanted to come with us. Were you able to win over her mom?" Shahbaaz chuckled.

We were dining at the Azad Ganj Restaurant, which was famous for its Mughlai cuisine. Shabaaz was keen on treating me as their meting with Mr Ray had gone very well, and he would be soon convincing their families so that they agree to the marriage.

The ambiance was filled with aroma of delectable delicacies. Hot fragrance of various food items brushed against my nostrils, as my senses rose to the feeling of desperate longing for Sapna. This was the place we had come to so often, bunking our colleges in the past, and then our respective workplaces. I promised to come here again after I married Sapna.

Nandini ordered, while we chatted.

"I don't know buddy. I tried my best," I replied, "not sure if I was successful in my effort or not."

"Don't be stressed. True love always wins, irrespective of the situation. You really love her a lot, isn't it?" Nandini tried to comfort me.

Yes, I really loved her, but couldn't reply. The dimension of love can never be measured, its strength can't be rated. It's a call of your soul, eager to find a mate who will prove to be an able support through out your life time. Perhaps, that's why your partner is referred to as soul mate.

I smiled back at them. They were one lovely couple, made for each other, on the verge of realizing their unified dream of being together, forever. When would my dream turn to reality too?

Nandini dropped me home after the lunch. She thanked me for accompanying them, while I returned back the thanks for the wonderful treat. The food, indeed, tasted awesome, and thus my spirits were sky high, even though I had no clue about my next step.

"So... What next?" I thought, as I entered my house. Neither my mind, nor my heart, could provide any answer. However, somewhere from within, I heard voices of laughter and friendly talks. Perhaps, some guest had come to visit my parents. As I took few more steps, the sound rose, imitating the union of long lost friends, the companionship in the voices too obvious. Suddenly, I realized that the guest's voice sounded oddly familiar. I ran towards my bed room from where the laughter had risen.

"You?" I was surprised, and pleasantly shocked, as I saw Sapna, sitting on the bed, chatting and laughing with my mom.


Chapter 20

So... What Next - Chapter 18

Chapter 17


"What is he doing here?" Sapna's Mom asked her husband coldly, staring at him like a butcher.

Mr Ray's gaze turned from me to Nandini to Shahbaaz, and then back again to me. His eyeballs were definitely avoiding the one person whom he had to answer. Being married was scary. Marriage wasn't all about honeymoon. The real story started after that.

True, there was a hell lot of iceberg beneath the surface. Would I too have to live in fear of Sapna's queries after marriage? God save me and all the current and future husbands of this world, from the piercing gaze of their wives.

Somewhere I had read, Love is blind and Marriage is an eye-opener.

"Well, you see, he is accompanying these two young people. They are currently facing a problem regarding their relationship," Mr Ray tried to explain.

Sapna's mom got up to leave, "Ok. I am waiting outside."

I turned towards her, and requested, "No aunty. Please stay. Your advice would also be beneficial to them."

She was surprised by my sudden intervention. I walked over to her, and touched her feet as a mark of respect. This shocked her further, and she took a few steps backward.

"Happy Birthday Aunty," I smiled.

"Its... Today is not my birthday," she was still in the process of regaining her composure.

"I know. It was exactly twelve days ago, but I couldn't wish you that time," I kept my smile intact. Sapna used to say I had a killer smile, and I thus tried to use this weapon tactfully.

"Oh thanks," she replied. She sat on the sofa.

Mr Ray was busy talking to Nandini and Shahbaaz. I sat on the sofa besides Mrs Ray.

"How are you aunty? Did you get rid of the pain on your knee?" I tried to engage her in small talks.

She was apprehensive of talking to me, and answered in a few syllables, "Hmm. Somewhat."

"My aunt is a well known doctor. I am sure she will treat your knee a lot better. Wait, let me book an appointment for you. Will tomorrow be fine?" I asked her.

"What ... tomorrow? But won't that be a problem? I mean it's ok, I can manage," she replied hesitantly.

"Don't worry Aunty. You should take care of your knee first. I heard Sapna's marriage is about to happen soon. If you are inflicted by this pain, who will look after the arrangement?"

She was silent. Me talking about Sapna was definitely a sensitive matter, and she had nothing to say in this regard. Rather, there was nothing she could say. I took that opportunity to fix an appointment with the Doctor.

"Tomorrow at 6pm sharp, ok?" I told her.

"Ok," she nodded, and after a few minutes, added, "Thanks."

"No thanks Aunty," I laughed, "You and Uncle are like my own family. Perhaps things didn't go right in the past, but I still respect you all a lot. That's one reason why I came to Uncle seeking help for my friend's problem." I pointed towards Nandini.

It was time for us to leave now. "How are you doing?" Mrs Ray asked finally, as I bid her good bye.

"I am fine, Aunty," I smiled, "Just trudging along alone."


Chapter 19

So... What Next - Chapter 17

Chapter 16

I got into Nandini's car near the Petrol Pump. Shahbaaz was already with her. We shook hands and exchanged greetings. This was the first time I was meeting him.

Shahbaaz was a well built guy with a good physique, about six feet in height, and looked nothing less than a movie star. He possessed a pleasing personality that would draw anyone towards him. I could see why Nandini was crazily in love with him. While conversing, I also came to know that he had completed his engineering from BITS Pilani and then pursued Management studies from IIM Kolkata, premier institutes both. Some one with such high credentials and good qualities would easily be a sought after bachelor. The real problem lied in his belonging to a different religion.

Religion, caste, creed, so many parameters one has to take care of before falling in love. These are all creations of the human mind, and the heart has to follow suit. Why can't the heart and mind be left alone in their respective fields. Heart is made for love, why pull your mind in this same business too?

"Petrol prices are sky high. Don't know what the Government is doing," Nandini complained.

"That shouldn't be a problem when you have an IIM grad as your hubby," I teased her, and Shahbaaz started laughing.

"Are you mad? Shahbaaz is a real miser. He doesn't even give me any gifts," she replied in mock anger.

"What gift shall I give you?" Shahbaaz answered, "I have already laid down my life in your service madam. Can there be a bigger gift?"

Love is too beautiful. The feelings associated with it are innocent and pure. Their love fights reminded me of the happy moments I had spent with Sapna. I was now more determined to re-live those times. Winning Sapna back was the objective, and there was no way I could let her go.

We reached the Court, the place where Uncle Ray worked. It was a red building, buzzing with numerous forms of people, each seeming busy and preoccupied in their own train of thoughts. The advocates walked with an air of importance and pride. Life was one big rush here, but isn't that the case everywhere.

We climbed up the stairs and reached Mr Ray's office. We knocked at the door.

"Come in," Uncle Ray's voice invited us inside.

We pushed open the door. Uncle Ray was sitting behind his work table as we all expected, and Aunt Ray, Sapna's mom, was sitting on the visitor's sofa at the corner of the room, as I had expected.

Her mouth opened wide in surprise as I entered the room, and she looked at Uncle with a gaze that demanded an explanation. Certainly, I was the one person she would never approve of, neither in this office nor in her daughter's life.



Chapter 18

So... What Next - Chapter 16

Chapter 15


"Can I call you?" I messaged Sapna. I didn't want her parents to know that we had started talking to each other. That would spoil everything.

After a few minutes my cell phone buzzed. "Yes, you can call now, but I won't be able to talk for long," came her reply.

"Hi Sapna," I started the conversation.

"Hello," she answered.

"I love you." There was silence.

"Ok. Forget all these now," I realized this was no time for romantic chit chats. "Is your mom at home?"

"Could I have called had she been at home? She has gone to Dad's office."

"What?" I squealed. This meant that I couldn't meet his dad today. It would be tough facing both mom and dad at the same time. I had planned to talk with each of them separately, but if they were together, there was no room for a one- on -one discussion.

Sapna seemed surprised by my reaction. "What happened? Any problem?" she queried.

"Nah. Not a problem. I will talk to you later. I just remembered there is an important task at hand."

I disconnected the call and thought for a while. When Plan A fails, you should always revert to Plan B. The problem in my case was, there was no Plan B. I was so sure of Plan A that I had ignored the probability of it failing.

However, if there was no Plan B, I had to device a Plan C now.

I called Nandini, "Hey, are you going to meet Mr Ray today?"

"Yes. I am going with Shahbaaz," she replied.

"Ok. At what time?"

"We will be leaving in an hour," she answered.

"Cool. I will go with you too," I said.

She hesitated, "Thanks Nitin. You are really a great friend, but we do not want to be a burden on you."

"It's not a burden. I will accompany you, that's no problem for me," I had to go.

"Ok," she agreed, "Let's meet in an hour near the Petrol Pump. I will pick you up in my car."



Chapter 17

So... What Next - Chapter 15

Chapter 14


I woke up in the morning with a throbbing headache. The last few days had really been hectic. However, I couldn't relax yet. There was still work to be done, and the destination, though in sight, had to be achieved. I reached for my cell phone and there was an unread message, from Sapna.

"I don't know what to do. I am totally confused."

The message in some sense indicated that she was starting to trust me again. I had to preserve the trust now.

I replied, "Don't worry. I am there. Just stay calm. I will manage everything."

Now, what next? Today was Saturday, and Sapna's office was closed on weekend. She would be at home. There was no way I could meet her today.

Perhaps, I could use the time more effectively. I had conveyed my feelings to her, and to some extent, I thought she was responding back well. It was the right time to get her parents into confidence.

This was the tough part. I had to make my parents understand too. Last night's incident had left a bad taste in everyone's mind, and I was not sure when I would be again able to have a healthy discussion with them about Sapna.

Meanwhile, I had to get the story moving. I dialed Nandini's number.

"Hi Nitin. What's up?" she picked up the call.

"I am doing fine. What's going on with you?"

"Not that fine with me dude," she sighed, "My parents are refusing to accept Shahbaaz. I don't know what to do."

"Hey listen. Don't be sad. I know a very good advocate, Mr. Pankaj Ray. Why don't you go to him? Take your parents along. I have already informed him about you, and he has agreed to make your parents understand. Trust me, he is really good," I told her.

"Thanks Nitin. You are so helpful," she seemed relieved.

"Don't say thanks Nandini. Anything for Love," I smiled.

I had to wait till Nandini met Uncle Ray. I hoped that things go well during their meeting.

It's too easy to love, but not that easy to fight for your love.

I got up from my bed and took my bath. My parents were sitting in the other room. They saw me, but didn't say anything.

I walked back into my room, trying to find out what my next task should be.


Chapter 16

So... What Next - Chapter 14

Chapter 13


"Here, have this son. I prepared your favorite dessert," my mom served some kheer on my plate.

It was dinner time and all four of us were enjoying a delicious meal cooked by my mom. Since I had come home after several months, she kept it in mind to prepare some of my favorite recipes, and true, they tasted awesome.

Mom and dad were sitting on the opposite side of the dining table while my sister was sitting beside me. It felt good to be with my family again. "You have grown so thin, eat some more," my mom forced me.

I waited for everyone to finish their dinner. I didn't want them to stay hungry tonight. Breaking the news would surely spoil their mood, and when you are upset, you lose your appetite. It was best for all to satisfy their appetites before I could spoil their mood.

"Mom, Dad, I have something to say," I started once we all finished eating.

"What is it son?" my Dad asked surprised.

I turned my head and looked at my sister. She smiled at me and urged me to go ahead.

"Actually," I cleared my throat, "I came here all of a sudden for a purpose. There is something I need, something I want, but it has been eluding me since a long time. However, I never lost hope. I kept trying on and on, and now finally, the time has come when I find myself standing on a crossroad. Either I should go for it, or abandon it completely. I have decided to go for it."

Dad beamed proudly on hearing these words, "This is like my brave boy. See how responsible he has become. You should always chase your dreams. Good to know you are doing it. What's your dream, by the way?"

"Dad, and Mom, my dream is Sapna," I said.

A shadowy silence dawned in the room, punctuated by the tick - tock of the wall clock. I wished some one would say something, but wishes seldom turned to reality. Finally, it was I who had to break the eerie silence.

"She is a really nice girl, and we both love each other. We can't be happy otherwise. I know we broke up once, but I admit that was a mistake. Mom, Dad, I haven't come across any girl who can understand me better than her. We are meant for each other. Please try to understand," I pleaded.

Mom left the table and went into her room. Dad didn't move. Probably he was too shocked to do anything. I waited for him to say something, and finally he spoke, "You are grown up, son. You live your life the way you want to. Who are we to say anything?" So saying, he too walked towards his bedroom.

I sat there, confused. I didn't want to hurt them, but as it so happened, I did hurt them. A sense of guilt took over me. Was I so bad that I can't keep anybody happy? Why did I land up hurting people?

The path of love indeed was strange.

I felt a hand on my shoulder. It belonged to my sister. "Don't worry brother. Mom and Dad will gradually understand. Go get your love," she smiled, "and make me proud."


Chapter 15

So... What Next - Chapter 13

Chapter 12


Looking into her eyes, I started, "I loved you, but I never realized how much until you went away. It was only then that I understood what love is. Love isn't holding hands, nor kissing away in a romantic escapade. It's more than that. In fact, it's a lot more about mental embrace than a physical one. It's taking responsibilities, to stand for the girl who is ready to adapt in your family. Love is a prayer of togetherness, an oath of faithfulness, and a path of truthfulness. Love is the essence of life, the reason of our presence. I was so lucky to be in love with someone like you, and equally miserable for letting the love go away so easily."

Sapna was listening to my words intently, and I saw the pain in her eyes. There was something in her eyes that always pulled me towards them. Sharp and beautiful, they spoke when she didn't.

The coffee arrived. Hot vapors were coming out from the mugs, filling the ambiance with their sweet aroma, as they stood smartly on the table. I looked into my mug. The shape of a heart was created on the upper layer of my coffee with chocolate flakes. I wondered what was in her cup? I looked at her, and she was rubbing her fingers against each other, lost and dazed.

I continued, "Sapna, we all make mistakes, but shouldn't we get a second chance? I am not God, I am just a human, a stupid guy, who couldn't control his rage at the most critical juncture of his life, but, I have suffered all this while for that. One mistake, a terrible one, took away the biggest happiness of my life. All my dreams drowned in that single moment of foolishness. I lost you, and in the process, I lost myself too. Can't we get back to where we were, the same happy past, you and me together?"

She kept silent, and I waited for her to respond. The coffee was getting cold, but there were more pressing things that were going through our mind. Who cared for coffee?

Finally, she looked up, and neatly placing a strand of hair behind her ears, said, "Why all this now Nitin? It's too late. I am getting married in a few days. You shouldn't have come now."

"It's never too late Sapna," I was desperate to win her back, "we can again try to recreate the love we once had. I really love you a lot, and I know you still think of me, don't you?"

"My parents won't agree, and neither will yours," I could hear her voice breaking.

"Don't worry Sapna," I tried to be as reassuring as possible, "I will make them understand. You don't worry about them. I just wish that you are with me forever."

Her eyes were gradually adopting a reddish hue, and I could see how hard she was trying to control her tears. She stood up. "I have to leave now," she said, and quickly left the place.

The coffee had turned cold, but I was satisfied 'cause I had let her know what was in my mind. I needed to act responsibly now. What should be the next step, meeting her mom or convincing my parents, I was yet to decide, but somehow I sensed that victory was within sight.

Love is magic, and has the cure for every problem. You just need to keep this magic alive, always, forever.


Chapter 14