From a distance, Bani watches with a fond smile as Mausi pinches Jai's cheek. He wears a sheepish look on his face and covers his cheek with his hand. Mausi giggles at this and ruffles his hair.
Mausi: Kyon? All of a sudden you have become embarrassed?
Jai: Mausi, I am not a child anymore. I am a grown man. (patting down his hair)
Mausi: (smiling affectionately) Ah, but to me you will always be my little Munna.
She can't help but smile even more on hearing this. It was a nice seeing Jai Walia smile for a change. Not just any smile… but a true and honest smile, one that she hadn't seen on his handsome face for a long time…since…well since this whole mess happened. Bani leans against the door frame and mutely watches the mother-son scene in front of her…
Jai: How are you feeling?--- Jigyasa is taking care of you well, isn't she? (concerned)
Mausi: Hain, hain. Main teek hoon and Jigyasa is taking great care of me. Aur tumhari paatni bhi. (she ends with a pleased smile) (trans: Yes, yes. I am fine and Jigyasa is taking great care of me. And your wife also.)
Jai's smile slowly fades and his face becomes grim on the mention of Bani. He casts his gaze down.
Mausi: …… Arre, Bahu, come, we were just talking about you! (exclaims happily)
Jai immediately looks up and turns around to see Bani standing at the doorway with a tray in her hands. Bani, shaken, straightens up on being acknowledged. Jai flashes her a furious look and then turns away. Bani lowers her head, sadly.
Mausi: Yahan aao, mere paas. (fond smile) (trans: Come over here, by my side.)
Bani walks over to her, bends down by her side, and places the tray carefully onto the table across from them. Jai, who's sitting on the other side of Mausi, begins to become aggravated by her presence. He avoids looking at her.
Mausi affectionately places her hand on Bani's hair, smoothing it down. She smiles in Jai's direction.
Mausi: Your Bani has been looking after me all the time ever since I have come back from the hospital. She never leaves my side. -- All the time she checks whether I take my medicine, eat my food following my diet chart, or that I rest. She's really pushy and makes sure that I take care of myself. She's even worse than the doctors! (laughs) But nonetheless, really sweet…
On hearing this, Jai switches his gaze back over to Bani and locks his eyes with hers. Her ears turn red and she shyly lowers her eyes down to her lap.
"She's up to something, Bhaiya… why else will she act so sweet and innocent in front of Mausi?… why does she look after a woman who is nothing to her?… she's definitely planning something…these Dixit girls just don't know when to put a stop to their cunning plans…".
What Jigyasa says makes sense… why is Bani trying to get so close to Mausi? What does she have planned up her sleeve now? Jai examines Bani quietly…
Mausi: Munna, I am very happy that you have married a wonderful girl like Bani.---- I am simply blessed to have her as my Bahu…
Bani looks up at Mausi, appreciatively. Not able to tolerate anymore praises, Jai clears his throat and stands up, alerting both Bani and Mausi.
Jai: It's getting late, Mausi… I suggest you start getting ready for the party… I will make sure that Anu comes to take you downstairs….
Before Mausi can even say another word, Jai quickly walks out of the room…..
Mausi: (puzzled) Yeh Munna ko achanak kya hogya? (trans: What has happened to Munna so suddenly?)
Bani: (sensing his anger, covering up for him)…. Mausi, Mr. Walia ko shayad koi kaam hai--- isliye…. (trans: Mausi, Mr. Walia probably has some work to do....that's why.)
Mausi: (sighs) Yeh ladka bhi nah. Hamesha kaam kaam kaam. Koi waaqt nahi hai usko paas…. Tum kaise seehati ho, Bani? (trans: This boy is too much. It's always work work work. He has no time at all...How do you tolerate it, Bani?)
Bani, not able to come up with a reply to this, quickly takes the glass of water and medicine from the tray and hands it over to Mausi with a faint smile.
Bani: Mausi, aapki daawai… (trans: Mausi, your medicine.)
Mausi makes a horrid look and shakes her head in a negative.
Mausi: (pleading tone) Nahi,… I won't take it… It's so awful….
Bani: Mausi… it will help you get better and it's Doctor's orders that you take these.
Mausi: (stubborn, childish) I don't care… I am absolutely fine… I don't need these horrible medicines…
Bani places a hand on her hip and gives Mausi a disapproving look. Unwillingly Mausi gives up and takes it from her. She places the pill in her mouth and then drinks the water.
Mausi: Khush? (trans: Happy?)
Bani: (smiles widely) Baut khush. (trans: Very happy.)
Mausi also smiles. She hands over the empty glass to Bani, who places it back down onto the tray. She picks it up, ready to leave, but stops as she hears Mausi speak.
Mausi: Waise, Bani…. Kya main ek baath poocho? (trans: Anyways, Bani...Can I ask you something?)
Bani: Ji, Mausi… (encouraging smile)
Mausi: Tum…. (pauses)… Tum Munna ko Mr. Walia kyon bulaathi ho? (trans: You...Why do you call Munna Mr. Walia?)
Bani stills and stares at Mausi, wide eyed. .. Completely overthrown by this, she becomes flustered.
Mausi: (going on)--- He is your husband, beti. You should call him by his first name…
Bani: Ji--- woh--- main….
Immediately Bani feels her face and ears burn from embarrassment. She is sure that she looks red like a tomato. Her…call Mr. Walia by his first name??? That was just impossible. … it's been a long habit for her to address him as Mr. Walia ever since she had started to work for him--- besides she wouldn't even dare call him by his first name…..
Mausi: arre, why have you become embarrassed all of a sudden?--- I haven't said anything wrong…, have I? --- All I have told you to do is call Munna by his first name instead of addressing him like how his employees do. … He is your husband, Bani, not your boss.
Bani: (blushing furiously)-- Ji--- main nahi kehsakte…. (trans: I--I can't say it.)
Mausi: Kyon nahi? (trans: Why not?)
Bani: M-main baas n-nahi kehsakte, Mausi…. (trans: I-I just can't, Mausi.)
Mausi laughs at seeing Bani so shy and flustered, fumbling over her own words.
Mausi: Accha teek hai… if not his first name, you can at least address him by "suniye", "hey ji", or "oh ji", haina? (winks)
Bani flushes even more and continues to look down at her feet, not able to meet Mausi's eyes.
Bani: (hastily) M-Mausi, woh--- party---- I need to get ready for the party.
Bani flies out of the room without another word, leaving Mausi behind, laughing to herself…..
************************************************************ ************************************************************ ******
Rano's eyes widen at the sight of it and she gazes at it, mesmerized.
Rano: Di, this is so beautiful!
Bani: … (solemnly) hain… baut khabsoorat hai… (Trans: yes, it's very beautiful.)
Rano: Aph…..
She walks away from the bed and over to the closet. Rano scans through the hanged clothing and finally finding something she approves of, she pulls it out and presents it to Bani. It is an amazing pure crape saree in a rare combination of beige and orange with matching sequins, contrast embroidery, mirror work, and beads.
Rano: ...iske saath pehnlo…you'll look great. (pleasant smile) (trans: wear it with this...you'll look great.)
Bani sits down on the edge of the bed, besides the jewelry set, with a sullen look on her face. She stares at Rano with gloomy looking eyes.
Bani: nahi pehnsakti… (trans: I can't wear it.)
Rano: (draping the saree over her arm) kyon nahi?-- it's a great saree and it'll---
Bani: Rano… I'm not talking about the saree… I'm talking about the set…
Rano: Of course you can, Mausi had---
Bani: (intervening) If Mr. Walia sees me wearing his mother's jewelry, then you can might as well think of me as dead…
Rano sighs, walks over to the bed, and sits down by Bani. She places her hand over hers, giving it a comforting squeeze.
Rano: Di… Mausi had given you this set because she wanted to… and it's tradition for every Walia bahu to be given this set, is it not?
Bani: Rano---
Rano: Di, aph Mr. Walia ke baare maat sochiyeh… sirf Mausi ke baare socho…(trans: Di, don't think about Mr. Walia...just think about Mausi.) how will she feel when she sees that you haven't worn it today for the party even after she requested that you do? She'll feel terrible…
And Mr. Walia?… won't he feel terrible seeing me wearing something so dear in his family? , Bani thinks miserably to herself.
Rano: Di… don't think about anyone else… just do it for Mausi….
"Bahu… this jewelry is very precious and valuable in the Walia family… it has been through each of the Walia bhaus… Munna's mother was the last to possess it… she would have wanted to personally give this to you… Please wear it for tonight's party… it will make me and your mother-in-law so happy….", Mausi had said with sweet smile as she placed the set in her hands. She had come into her room a little after Bani had given her the medicine and just when she was about to get ready.
Hesitantly Bani nods her head and watches Rano smile at her.
Rano: Good… now you go on and change. I'll be in Anu's room if you need me….
************************************************************ ************************************************************
As the evening neared, guests arrived in packs and flooded into the main hall in the Mansion, socializing with one another. Jigyasa of course was off with her snobbish kitty friends, squealing with laughter, and forming her mouth into a big smile, flashing away her pearl like white teeth. Aditya, still angered and purposefully ignoring Jai, busies himself with a few other of his friends and associates.
Jai Walia, dressed in his signature black suit, paired with a silver tie, and looking extremely handsome, is occasionally stopped by people and chats with them shortly, being polite as he can be, even though the last thing he wants to do is talk to such ridiculous people. In the middle of a conversation with Mr. and Mrs. Sharma, Mr. Sharma points out in an enthusiastic voice, "Oh, that must be your Mausi, isn't it? It's been quite awhile since I've last seen her. She's a lovely woman." Jai turns and looks behind him towards the stairs, where Mr. Sharma indicates to, and grins on seeing his Mausi walking down the stairs, finally joining the party. He becomes eased and cheerful by her appearance.
"And that must be your wife, right Mr. Walia? My, she's a beautiful young lady. Look at that wonderful saree and jewelry. I might just have to ask her where she gets such fabulous wears from," Mrs. Sharam exclaims with a bright smile. Jai finally notices Bani walking down alongside Mausi, helping her down the stairs, looking magnificent in a flattering saree, doing justice to her feminine body, and her hair down in loose curls. On seeing her, he becomes outraged. Not by the sight of her… no it was more than that. It was by what she was wearing… it was by what was adorning her ears and neck…. It was by the fact that she was wearing his mother's jewels…. Important jewels in the Walia Family that were passed down generations…. and she was wearing them, which causes him to become furious. His hand rolls into fists and his jaw tightens.
Jai doesn't bother to smile as Mausi joins him and the Sharmas, with Bani standing by her side, obediently. Bani casts down her eyes down to the floor on seeing Jai's angered expression, but her gaze is brought back up as Mr. Sharma speaks.
Mr. Sharma: Ms. Singhania! It's great to see you again!
Mausi: (smiling politely) It's a pleasure to see you too, Rajveer, --- and your wife. How have you been?
Mr. Sharma: (coolly, relaxed) Oh we're fine. Nothing has changed. Tell me, how does it feel to be back in Mumbai?
Mausi: (smile widens) I'm extremely happy to be back with my son and now with my daughter-in-law, Bani. You have met her, haven't you?
Mrs. Sharma: No, we haven't had the opportunity to, Ms. Singhania, but now we do. It's lovely to finally meet you, Mrs. Walia.
Bani smiles meekly at her. Jai continues to fume with anger and doesn't leave his eyes off of his wife.
Mrs. Sharma: Tell me, where did you get this beautiful necklace from? And your earrings!
From the corner of her eyes, Bani sees Jai furious and becomes slightly worried and scared. She knew that this would be a bad idea… why did Mausi have to give her the set and put her into this horrible predicament?
Mausi: (quickly, intervenes) These?! These are very precious jewels in the Walia Family. It has been passed down many generations and given to the Walia Bahus.
Mrs. Sharma: It's simply gorgeous, Ms. Singhania!
Mausi smiles, feeling very pleased by the comment. Bani stands mutely, not knowing what to do or say, only focused on avoiding Jai's murderous gaze.
Jai: (curt, cold) Excuse me, I will be right back.
Bani finally manages to look up at him with her frightened eyes. He stares at her hard and long, his eyes gleaming, which clearly hint to her the trouble that will soon fall upon her. She swallows hard. Mausi smiles generously in his direction and tells him to go on. Jai storms off in the other direction, far away…. Mausi continues to be engrossed with talking to Mrs. Sharma. Mr. Sharma, bored by the women, walks away and joins another group of men. Bani proceeds to be silent, unless spoken to.
** ************************************************************ ************************************************************
Managing to escape Mausi and from being introduced to various of peoples, Bani is left to herself, finally able to breathe in peace. Feeling rather thirsty, she walks towards a passing waiter, wanting water, but she is bumped into someone. She mutters a quick sorry and when she looks back at the person, her attention is averted onto him.
Bani: (confused, surprised) Ranveer?
Ranveer looks back at her and becomes pale in the face. He is dressed in one of his usual office outfits and possess a file in his hand. He stares at her, scared. As if he hadn't seen her, Ranveer hurriedly turns around, attempting to run away, but Bani pulls him back by his shoulder and turns him around.
Bani: Ranveer?-- What is wrong with you? Why are you running away from me? For the past few days you haven't said a word to me and have been avoiding me every time I come around. Why is that?
Ranveer: N-nahi to.
Bani: Did I do something wrong? (concerned)
Ranveer: (hasty) Not at all.
Bani: Are you mad at me?
He shakes his head in a negative. Bani becomes frustrated by his lack of a proper reply to her questions.
Bani: Then what is it?! Why are you ignoring me?
Ranveer: Bani, I have to go. It's important that I get this file to Mr. Walia or Aditya sir right away. (purposefully changing the subject)
Bani: (pulls him back) Ranveer…
Ranveer: (angrily, explodes) Look, ask your husband okay?! He'll give you the answers to your questions!…. Just… please… (calming down) don't come near me… I don't to be a waiter boy.
Without another word, Ranveer stalks away, leaving Bani speechless and puzzled …Ask Mr. Walia?… Waiter boy?… what on earth is he talking about? Where has Mr. Walia come in all of this?
She becomes startled on hearing Mausi's voice from behind, "Bani… tum yahan ho? I have been looking for you all over"…..
***** ************************************************************ ************************************************************
Tarun: Jai, relax… and calm down… too much anger isn't good for you. Don't want to get that blood pressure of yours to get high, now do we?
Jai growls and brushes off Tarun's comment. He orders a whiskey from the bartender and ignores the silly smile plastered on his best friend's face, which in seconds fades away.
Tarun: (sighs) … Yaar, I don't even understand why you're so grouchy nowadays… you're no fun… can't even take a joke anymore. You're the damn Grinch itself…
Tarun brings his glass to his lips and swallows down his beverage. Jai proceeds to ignore him, not looking at him or acknowledging his presence whatsoever. His mind is occupied… my mother's jewels… my mother's, dammit… and she… how dare she touch them?…how dare she wear them? …she will definitely have to pay for putting her filthy hands on something so dear to my mother… she will…..
Jai turns back around to grab his drink from the bartender and is just about to drown the whole whiskey down, but is prevented to do so by a gentle touch on his shoulder. Looking to his side slowly, Jai is surprised to see Mausi standing behind him, staring at him with a soft smile. He immediately places his glass down onto the counter.
Jai: Mausi, what have you come here for?
Before Mausi can speak, Tarun interrupts.
Tarun: … Well I'll be damned. Mausi's become into a drinker.-- What will it be Mausi? Vodka, whiskey, wine, you name it and I'll order it.
Mausi: Oh will you ever stop it with your jokes, Tarun?
Tarun: (grins) Never Mausi. You know that. (he raises his glass up to her and winks)
Jai: The idiot will remain a joker for the rest of his life.
Tarun stares at Jai, offended and frowns. Mausi smiles and stifles in her laughter. Tarun easily brushes Jai's comment away.
Tarun: So what have you really come here for?
Mausi smiles even wider and directs over to her side where both Jai and Tarun finally notice Bani, looking uncomfortable, standing by Mausi. Jai's face bears a look of complete irritation and hatred.
Mausi: Poor Bani has been absolutely bored, she won't admit it to me, but I can clearly see it on her face. Munna, why don't you go on and take her to dance?
Jai's fierce eyes blaze with pure hate and anger as his gaze rests upon Bani. Bani falls even more behind Mausi, wishing for herself to disappear. Mausi, feeling very happy and cheerful, is oblivious to the thick strong tension between husband and wife. So is Tarun, who thumps Jai hard on his back and smiles wonderfully.
Tarun: That's a perfect idea. Even your Munna has been bored and unbelievably grouchy. I guess it's because Bani's been kept away from him the whole time during the party, since they are usually together.
Both Jai and Bani break their eye contact and look the other way from each other as Tarun says this. Jai fuming and a temper forming inside of him whereas Bani beginning to feel extremely uncomfortable, edgy, and apprehensive. Mausi giggles and pinches Jai's cheek, in a sweet manner. Jai flinches.
Mausi: How cute. --- Accha sorry baba, I kept her away from you this whole time. I was just excited to introduce her to everyone. Well here she is. (in a teasing manner) She's all yours now.
Bani's cheek flush by Mausi's teasing words. Tarun laughs at this and points this out, which causes Mausi to laugh once again. Jai sneers silently to himself and doesn't say a word.
Tarun: Well…Jai, don't let us keep you two any longer. You both are allowed to go and be together now. (winks)
Jai swears to himself. If there hadn't been too many witnesses around, he would have murdered Tarun Sablok right then and there. Mausi smiles pleasantly at him.
Mausi: Hain, hain. He's absolutely right… Go on you two.
Having no other choice but to unwillingly oblige, Jai stares back at Bani and with a lot of effort extends his hand to her. Bani stares at his hand, feeling momentarily paralyzed by this gesture. She reflects the shock in her eyes, which Jai sees and he hastily says in a hard tone, "Chale?".
Even though it was useless, she looks at Mausi, pleadingly, but all Mausi does is give her an encouraging smile and push.
Mausi: Go on, Bani….
Bani slowly places her hand in his and watches as Jai's fingers close around it, holding her hand in a firm grip. She feels her hand tingle from their contact and lets herself be led by him, Jai walking in front, her following along behind, towards the dance floor, where a beautiful song begins to play……
Tujhe dheke dheke sona….
He comes to a halt and so does she… they both stand in the middle of the floor, among the other couples dancing along to the romantic song, surrounded by elegant decorations, … a misty fog.. and a single bright light in the dim hall falling upon them… centering on them… their hands still holding onto another… his back faced to her.
Turning around, Jai stares down at her intently with his dark eyes and Bani's insides begin to go chaotic. Startling her his hand slides to her bare waist and he pulls her closer into him, breaking the huge gap in between them. He still holds onto her other hand…. Bani feels even more discomfort by their proximity, lowers her eyes to his chest, and places her hand on his shoulder, not knowing what else to do. Jai leads her into the slow dance….
Tujhe dheke dheke sona
Tujhe dhek khar hain jagna
Maine yeh zindagani
Sang tere bitaani
Tujhmein basi hain meri jaan haai
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak jaayen….
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya Dhadak dhadak jaayen…
Tujhe dekh dekh sona
Tujhe dekh dekh kar hain jagna
Maine yeh zindagani
Sang tere bitaani
Tujmein basi hain meri jaan haai
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak jaayen….
Bani's heart doesn't seem to stop with it's abnormal racing… and a feeling unknown to her begins to build in the pit of her stomach. She feels herself heat up from Jai's focused gaze on her…
Kabse hai dil mein mere armaan kai ankahe
Kabse hai dil mein mere armaan kai ankahe
Inko tu sunle aaja chaahat ke rang chadha jaa
Kehna kabhi to mera maan haai
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak jaayen
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak jaayen….
She proceeds to stare at his chest and let him guide her through the dance, taking the lead… the feel of his hand still touching her bare waist makes her insides whirl.
Lagta hain yeh kyu mujhe sadiyon se chaahu tujhe
Lagta hain yeh kyu mujhe sadiyon se chaahu tujhe
Mujpe tu kar ehsaan haai
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak jaayen…
Mixed feelings and emotions run through Bani, confusing her terribly… these reactions inside of her… this different nervousness inside of her, that she's never experienced before… what is happening to her? Why does she feel so… strange?
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak jaayen….
Tujhe dekh dekh sona
Tujhe dekh kar hain jagna
Maine yeh zindagani
Sang tere hain bitani haai
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak jaayen
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Dhadak jaaye jiya
Dhadak jaaye jaaye
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Dhadak dhadak dhadak jaaye
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak
Jiya dhadak dhadak jaaye…..
Bani stares up at Jai once as he stops… Her heart skips a beat as suddenly Jai pulls her even closer against him and leans his head against hers, nearing close to her…. his hand still on her waist.
She holds in her breath as he dangerously says to her in a low voice, "You didn't do the right thing by touching my mother's jewels, Bani…." Without another word to her, Jai leaves her standing by herself, alone on the floor….speechless.
************************************************************ *********************************************************
The party went by swiftly and ended rather quickly. Everyone went off to their own rooms, preparing to get ready for bed. Jai had gone straight to the study after the party, wanting to deal with a few work related things before going to bed. Bani makes her way across the top floor towards her and Rano's room, but is stopped in her tracks by Mausi, who happened to be passing by at the same time, going to her own room.
Mausi: Bahu…
Bani turns around and faces Mausi. She smiles politely at her.
Bani: Ji, Mausi?
Mausi: Bani, tum wahan kyon jhare ho? (trans: Bani, why are you going over there?)
Bani:… ji, mausi, main Rano ke saath---- (trans: Mausi, I'm with Rano---)
Mausi: Arre paar Rano to aab teek hai, haina? (trans: But Rano is fine now, isn't she?) She doesn't have a fever anymore. You can sleep in your own room now.
From the day Mausi arrived at the Walia Mansion and noticed that Jai and Bani didn't sleep in the same room, she immediately questioned why. Everyone, not having an answer, didn't know what to say. Bani, speaking the first thing that came to mind, had told her the reason was because her sister was sick and she wanted to stay by her side and make sure that she gets well. That was two days ago.
Panic runs through her and her face grows pale. She knew that she couldn't keep the pretense of Rano's sickness going on for too long, but she was hoping that it would last for a couple of more days. Frightened from the thought of sharing a room with her husband, Bani hurriedly tries to come up with excuses.
Bani: M-Mausi, lekin, just in case, I think I should be with her--- if she needs me. (hastily)
Mausi: (smiling) Arre, Bani. Tum baut fikar karti ho. Tumhari Rano teek hai. Maine khud check kiya, she is sleeping peacefully. Abh tum bhi jaake sonjao…Munna ke saath… make sure he sleeps on time. I know he has that habit of his to read his files before sleeping. (trans: Bani. You worry too much. Your Rano is fine. I have checked myself, she is sleeping peacefully. Now you go on and sleep...with Munna...make sure he sleeps on time. I know he has that habit of his to read his files before sleeping.)
Bani: Lekin Mausi--- (desperate now)
Mausi: (smiles even more) Loh! Speak of the devil itself. Here comes Munna right now.
Bani's voice trails off and her body tenses. She can hear the loud footsteps approach her from behind. Slowly, Bani turns around…..
Jai, oblivious to Mausi and Bani standing in the middle of the hallway, continues to peer into his file as he walks in the direction towards his room. He is finally brought out of his deep concentration by his Mausi's voice.
Mausi: What did I tell you, Bani? Munna has an old habit of reading his office files before sleeping. A habit that I am still trying my best to change.
Jai looks up and finds both Mausi and Bani standing before him. Mausi looking directly at him with a pretense look of disapproval and Bani looking everywhere, but at him. He shuts the file closed with his hand and ignores Bani's presence.
Jai: Mausi, aph yahan kya khar rahi hai? Iteena raat hochuka… aph please jaake sonjaaiye… Doctor neh kaha nah keh aapko aaram ki zaroorat hai. (trans: Mausi, what are you doing over here? It has become late....please go to sleep....the Doctor had said you need bed rest.)
Mausi: Munna, I am going to my room. -- I was just telling Bani that there is no need for her to sleep with Rano anymore since she is perfectly well now. She can sleep in her own bedroom.
The color from Jai's face drains away and he looks at Mausi, completely blown off. He flashes Bani a quick look who is no help at all because her eyes are directly glued onto the floor. Then he looks back over to Mausi, who continues to smile sweetly at him.
Jai: A-are you sure? I mean, are you sure that Rano is alright now? She did have a pretty awful fever. I'd think it's best if Bani stays with her for one more night, just in case.
Mausi: Nahi, iske liye koi zaroort nahi hai. Woh baachi sonchuki hai. She is fine. Tum dono abh apne room peh jao aur sonjao, baut late hochuka hai. (Trans: No, that is not necessary. The child has already fallen asleep. She is fine. You to go on to your own room and sleep, it has become very late.)
Both Jai and Bani don't move, which confuses Mausi for awhile as she notices their lost looks.
Mausi: Kahan kogaye ho tum dono?--- Really, Rano will be fine. Do not worry. Go on to your room.
Jai and Bani look at each other, both feeling the same thing… trapped. Unluckily Jai's room was nearby Mausi's, therefore Jai and Bani would actually have to sleep in the same room for the night…and many nights to come.
Jai: (stone like)… Chalo, Bani. Hum apne kamreh mein chale. (trans: Come on, Bani. Let's go to our room.)
Bani stares at Jai, stunned. Jai ignores it.
Jai: Goodnight, Mausi.
Mausi: (generously) Goodnight, Munna. Goodnight, Bani.
Bani: (shakily) …J-ji, goodnight.
Jai had already begun to go towards their bedroom and slowly, hesitantly Bani follows behind…feeling very terrified and helpless.
Mausi watches them walk together towards their room down the hall with an affectionate smile. Seeing them go in and close the door behind them, Mausi finally goes off to her own room….
*** ************************************************************ ************************************************************
Bani watches him lock the door after himself and on seeing him turn around, she opens her mouth to say something, but is cut off by him by his cold voice.
Jai: The right side of the bed is mine……
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Chapter 10:
Jai awoke to the sound of his alarm clock and to the sight of seeing the left side of the bed empty, where Bani had fallen asleep on last night. Without speaking another word to each other, both had gone to their own sides of the bed and silently laid down, making sure to build enough space between them. Except that hadn't worked all too great later on into the night when both had unknowingly gotten closer, only a couple of inches away from another. Bani's hair repeatedly falling onto or getting into Jai's face irritated him throughout the night and caused him to switch around plenty of times and also create space back in between.
He tiredly runs a hand through his hair, ruffling it up, and then slides his hand down to the back of his neck, rubbing it. Not bothering to wonder where his wife could possibly be, Jai throws the comforter off of him and gets up from bed. He tugs on his shirt, adjusting it. Sleeping with his shirt on, especially when it was so hot, was extremely uncomfortable for Jai, who had the habit of wearing no shirts for his nightwear and just having sweats or boxers on. He would definitely find it hard to adjust to this new change.
Jai walks on over towards the bathroom, wanting to quickly get ready and go off to the office, where he was sure a mountain of work was awaiting for him. Just as he approaches the bathroom, it's door flies open and he is momentarily taken aback by Bani's sudden appearance before him. She is wearing a dark blue saree with fine silver works and embroidery, her sindoor and mangulsutra in tact, and wearing only a pair of earrings and her wedding bangles. (sorry, I have no clue what you call them). She also bares a look of slight shock on seeing him in front of her.
Both, silently, move to the left, thinking of passing one another, but only end up getting in each other's way. On instinct, they both move automatically to the right, again blocking one another. They do this once more, moving to the left, both equally getting flustered and Jai a bit more annoyed. He stops her by raising a hand and then moving himself aside, giving her a passage way of getting through. Bani flashes him a thankful look and walks past him. Jai, ignoring her, goes into the bathroom and slams the door behind him. Bani shakes, a tad startled by the unexpected action of his.
Bani quickly mutters a prayer to herself, feeling frightened, for she did not know how she will be able to survive living with the very man who is set out to ruin her life….
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Bani, like usual, helps Tony set the table, and greets everyone at the table. Aditya smiles sweetly at her like he always does every morning. Dadi gives her blessings as does Mausi. Rano hugs her sister before sitting down in her seat. Saahil and Anu secretly smile at her when their mother isn't looking. Jigyasa gives her the regular glare she always flashes at her at Breakfast. Bani, as usual, ignores it. As Bani finally takes her seat, Mausi notices the head chair empty, which belongs to Jai.
Mausi: Arre, yeh Munna kahan hai? (trans: Where is Munna?)---Bani?
Bani: Ji, woh---- Mr. Walia---
Bani stops midway in her sentence as she sees Mausi give her a look. Realizing the meaning for it, she corrects herself hesitantly.
Bani: He must be still getting ready, Mausi. (quietly)
Mausi smiles as she sees Bani finally starting to avoid calling her Munna Mr. Walia.
Aditya: No, he had left quiet awhile ago. Just before Breakfast started.
Both Mausi and Bani look at Aditya across from the table, who chews his toast carelessly. Bani didn't see nor hear him leave for the office, and she was awake before him.
Mausi: How could he just leave without informing anyone?
Aditya: Something's come up so he had to go to the office early. Don't worry, he said he'll have something to eat.
That was what he always said, but Bani knew that he never did. He is always so busy and caught up with work that he always forgets to stop and just eat. She begins to worry.
Mausi: Aditya, make sure that he does, alright? I know that boy, he always forgets.
Aditya: (reassuring smile) I will, Mausi. …I should be going on myself. I will see you all in the evening.
Grabbing his bag and coat, Aditya gives his farewells and smiles an encouraging smile over to Bani, who smiles pleasantly back at him.
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Jai sits down in his chair, tiredly, and sighs outwardly to himself. He leans his elbow onto his desk and rests his forehead into the palm of his head. He hears his stomach growl and realizes how hungry he is. He should have grabbed something to eat on the way out to the office. Hearing his cabin door open, Jai looks up to see his P.A. walk towards him with a polite smile on her lips and holds a small tiffin in her hands.
Jai: Raashi, what's this?
Raashi: Sir, this is for you. It's brunch since you skipped breakfast.
Jai: (eyeing it) Where did it come from?
Raashi: Your Mausi had sent it, Sir.
Jai, feeling pleased and grateful towards his Mausi, smiles a light smile and indicates for her to place it on his desk.
Jai: Thanks. Now go on and get me the shares for the Goa project.
Raashi: Yes, Sir.
She leaves and shuts the door behind her. Jai, not wasting another second, opens the tiffin and digs into the delicious food. Repeatedly he thanks Mausi as he eats….
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Bani: Have you given it to him?
She speaks quietly into the phone and looks around the living room, making sure if anyone is around. "Yes, Ma'am, I have," Raashi replies back. Bani sighs and holds the phone closer to her.
Bani: Raashi, please don't call me Ma'am. I was your friend before I got married to Mr. Walia and I still am.
Raashi:… You're right. I'm sorry Bani, for being so formal. It's just that you're Mr. Walia's wife now…so….
Bani: Yeah, I can understand. …How's the office?
Raashi: The office is busy and hectic like always……and terribly boring without you. I wish you could come back.
Bani: You know Mausi isn't feeling well….I can't come back.
And the with the new project of building the new Casino on top of her home was a huge factor from preventing Bani ever coming back to the office again. But of course Bani wasn't going to tell her that. Raashi's a nice woman and friend, but definitely not a person who Bani can tell her problems to.
Bani:… Um, did you tell Mr. Walia that Mausi had made the food?
Raashi: Yes, I did….which I don't quite understand why. ..How come you are giving Mausi the credit for something you made?
Bani: No reason.
Raashi: Surely there has to be, otherwise you wouldn't tell me to say it was Mausi who cooked the food.
Bani:…Raashi, I-I have to go, Mausi has called for me. I'll just leave you to go back to your work. It was nice talking to you again.
Raashi: Bani--
Bani: Bye.
Raashi shakes her head as she hears the line disconnect and places her desk phone back onto it's receiver. She pulls a red file from out of the cabinet file and gets out of her seat, going back over to her boss's cabin….
************************************************************ ***************************************************** *******
After awhile, hearing raised voices, curiously Bani and Rano come out of the guest room and walk out towards the living room where the commotion is occurring. Usually whenever they have time, the two sisters go into the guest room and try to spend time with one another.
They see each and everyone, minus Aditya who stands away from everyone with his arms crossed, hug and congratulate Jai, who smiles broadly at everyone. Finally Mausi takes his face into her palms and she kisses him affectionately on his forehead.
Mausi: May your success continue on, Munna….
Jai: Thank you, Mausi.
Jigyasa, the only one who notices Bani and Rano's presence, smirks and says in a teasing voice, "Oh, Bhabhi! Rano! Wouldn't you two like to hear the good news that Bhaiya has to share?" Jai turns around on this and stares at Bani with mischief looking eyes. Bani sees a small box containing sweets in his hands. She and Rano stare at everyone, confused.
Bani: (innocently) What news?
Jigyasa: The project that involves----
Jai: (intervenes) Jigyasa, if you don't mind, I would personally like to tell my wife.
Jigyasa hushes up, but continues to smirk to herself. Jai walks towards both Rano and Bani, wearing a devilish smile on his lips and his eyes gleaming dangerously at them. Bani becomes to grow apprehensive by this and looks past him over at Aditya, who wears a sympathetic look on his face. As Jai approaches he looks at her intensely. Bani stares at him, worried, confused, and slightly frightened. Her and Rano both exchange quick looks.
Jai: …You will be happy to know that I have managed to buy the land in Mount Abu and will soon construct a Casino there, which I am sure will be very profitable towards the company.
Everything inside of Bani seems to freeze and not function anymore. The color from Bani's face drains away and she stares at him with awe. Tears begin to sparkle in her eyes. Rano throws her sister a puzzled look. But Bani keeps her eyes focused on her husband who continues to smirk down at her. He opens the box of sweets and pulls out a ladoo. Bringing the sweet towards her mouth, Jai says in a biting tone, "Have a sweet for the joyous occasion, Darling."
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Chapter 11 A:
Bani watches him silently, making no sound, not wanting to awake him in the middle of his peaceful sleep. Gathering the pillow closer under her, Bani proceeds to gaze at him wordlessly from her respectful side of the bed. She takes in his handsome face…his rugged features….strong jaw line… soft looking lips… perfectly chiseled like nose …black hair…thick black eyebrows overlapping those mesmerizing gray eyes, those eyes that nerve her…make her feel as if her confidence has been stripped away from her…take away her self control…
He looks so different when he's sleeping…..so peaceful….and innocent…not anything like how he is during the day. On seeing a few hair strands fall upon his forehead, a temptation builds in her that urges her to brush them away. Just as she goes to, Jai stirs in his sleep and Bani's hand freezes half way. She watches him breathlessly and eases as he drifts back into his deep slumber. Not risking it, Bani places her hand back to her side and her head back onto her fluffy pillow. She feels tears prickle her eyes instantly….
"Di, why is it that you are always so nice and polite to him?! You never fight back for yourself! Why do you not defend yourself, Didi?!", Rano had questioned her once they parted away from the Walias in the living room. "…He's destroying our home…our home, Didi… where we grew up and spent our childhood in… where we laughed, cried, fought, and God knows what else… Mr. Walia is turning that very place into a Casino… and you didn't say a word to him… how come? Why do you not say anything against him at all?!", she cried. "Why do you tolerate it all?"
A tear rolls down her cheek and she holds in her breath, afraid to let it out and make any kind of sound that will awake her husband.
Why is it that I tolerate it all?….Why do I take all the pain that Mr. Walia gives me and not say a word in return? Why cannot I defend myself? Why do I allow him to hurt me like this?, she questions herself desperately. After all why does she not do anything to stop him? What is it that is stopping her from fighting back? What is it that's stopping me?….
Bani hears him mutter something under his breath, stir once again, and then switch sides, turning his back on her. She wipes away her tears and also switches over to the other side, facing her back towards his….
What is it?….
************************************************************ ************************************************************ ***
A few days passed by with the same old routine… Jai not speaking a word to Bani and Bani staying at home with Mausi, who has recovered perfectly and is well. Bani is at least grateful for one thing… there haven't been any nasty comments thrown at her from her husband…yet.
Aditya continues to reassure her that he will put a stop to the destruction of her home, making Bani feel a little better knowing she has his support. Surprisingly, the company hasn't started on the construction of the new Casino so far. Perhaps her husband is just threatening her or playing games with her? Maybe he isn't going to destroy her home after all…..but Bani knew that was too much to hope for. Knowing him, he would probably be saving it for a good time.
Like usual, when the clock strikes 9 o'clock, everyone arrives at the table and breakfast is served by Bani, Tony, and even Mausi. At 9: 05 Jai finally approaches and sits down at the head of the table. Everyone greets him respectfully, except Aditya who still is angered by Jai's attitude. The only reason why Aditya comes to breakfast nowadays is because he is concerned for Bani and Rano,…. especially Bani.
Mausi: Good to see you finally join us for Breakfast, Munna.
She refers to his repeated absences at the breakfast table for the past few days.
Jai: Yes, I know Mausi, and I'm sorry. The office had been very hectic, but the work has calmed down a bit.
Mausi: I don't care whether the work has become difficult or not, you should have breakfast in the morning. It's the most important meal of the day and keeps you going throughout it.
Jai just nods his head in agreement and digs in his laid out food.
Jai: (light smile) Waise…Mausi… thank you.
Mausi looks up at him, puzzled. She places down the plate of toast in her hands.
Mausi: What for?
Jai: For sending me in food for the past days. I would have starved myself the whole day at work without it. So, thank you.
Jigyasa: (smiles) Of course, Mausi will always scold you Bhaiya, but she will never stop looking after your health.
Jai smiles back at her and agrees. He goes back to eating his food. Mausi continues to look confused. Bani hopes that Mausi won't say a word, but of course luck isn't on her side and Mausi goes on ahead and asks….
Mausi: Me? Send you food?
Jai: (also a little confused) Yes, you Mausi.
Mausi: Nahi to… I didn't send you any food at all. Aditya had told me that he would make sure you eat, so I thought he would do so. If I knew you wouldn't still, then I surely would have packed you some food and sent it to you… but I didn't.
Jai is now beyond confused. If Mausi didn't make him food for the past four days… then who did?
Jai: Are you sure you didn't, Mausi?
Mausi: Yes I am… but then again, I could be suffering from memory loss… (shrugs)
Dadi: Billo couldn't had. She's always watching movies with me in the mornings. It must had been somebody else.
Bani tries her best to stay calm and continues to go around the table, pouring orange juice in everyone's glasses. Jai begins to ponder to himself. He looks over to his left and stares at his sister.
Jai: Jigyasa, did you?
Before Jigyasa can even speak, Aditya cuts in and talks for her.
Aditya: Please, Jigyasa can't even pour herself a bowl of cereal. How do you expect her to make a whole meal for you?
Saahil, Anu, Dadi, Rano, Mausi, and even Tony stifle in their laughter by Aditya's comment. Even Bani can't help smiling, but it soon vanishes as Jai stares at her icily. She goes back to pouring the orange juice. Jigyasa fumes and opens her mouth to retort, but her voice is drained away by Anu's.
Anu: Mamaji.
Jai turns his gaze over to his niece at the other side of the table. She smiles politely at him. Bani finally approaches Jai's side with the jug and begins to pour him some juice.
Anu: It wasn't Mausi or Mom who sent you the food… It was Mamiji.
Just as Anu says this, Bani freezes and stops pouring. Jai stares at Anu wide eyed and then looks over to his left at Bani. Both of their eyes lock. Bani quietly looks down and goes back to pouring, pretending as if Anu hadn't spoken and avoiding Jai's intense gaze.
Anu: Bani Mami knew that you wouldn't have time to eat or you would have forgotten so she made sure to make you something to eat. ---- Ouch.
Anu rubs her arm where Rano had pinched her and glances over at her.
Anu: (whispers) What was that for?
Rano of course knew that her sister sent food to Jai secretly. At first she was against it and even stopped her sister from doing so, but all Bani had said was that he would never know and think it was Mausi. Well now he knows from Anu's big mouth. She glares at Anu and motions for her to keep silent and say no more. Anu obediently does so.
Jai continues to watch Bani intently. She finishes pouring him juice, places the jug on the table, and takes an empty plate from the table in her hands. Bani leaves to the kitchen, her cheeks looking slightly flushed. Jai watches her wander off.
Dadi: Arre, then you should have said something before Anu. (giggles) Bechara Jai would have begun to become frightened for his life from receiving food from a stranger. (continues to giggle at her own joke)
Saahil: (laughing with her) Like some stalker girl or something.
Dadi: Exactly.
Both grandmother and grandson find this highly amusing and continue laughing between themselves, until Jigyasa flashes them both a warning glance, which silences them both.
Aditya tries his best to hide his forming smile. Seeing the look on Jai's face when he had just discovered that it was his darling wife who had been sending him the food and not his Mausi….was absolutely priceless… definitely a Kodak moment.
Jai continues to look bewildered by this and is in a loss for words. Mausi gives him a ginger smile.
Mausi: Look at how much your wife cares for you… she knew exactly that you wouldn't eat and she took the liberty to take some time and make you some food… Really, Bani is an amazing girl… nowadays girls like her are rare. Well cultured and been given good values…You're lucky to have her in your life, Munna.
Jai looks away from his Mausi. For a moment he stares long and hard at the table, as if he were drilling a hole in it with his eyes. Then casting his gaze up he looks back up at her and then grabs his coat from behind his chair.
Jai: (hastily) I should be going, Mausi.
Mausi: Alright, but don't take too long.
Jai: I won't. ….Aditya.
Aditya unwillingly looks up from his plate at being acknowledged by him. He throws him a "what do you want" look.
Jai: Will you be accompanying me in my car to the office as you always do? Or will you take your own car for today also?
Aditya: My car will do, thank you. You may carry on. I don't want to hold you up from your work.
So he was going to continue to give him this treatment… Fine… So be it.
Jai pulls his coat over him and makes his way out of the room. He hears a gentle tone calling after him. "Ji suniye…"
Immediately he stops in his tracks and slowly looks behind his shoulder to see Bani nervously looking back at him. These words surprise him so much that they cause him, and everyone else, to turn around and look straight at Bani, who had just come back into the room seconds earlier.
Bani: Aapka bag… (trans: Your bag...)
She presents his briefcase up to him with her two hands. He narrows his eyebrows together and becomes infuriated by her wife like avatar. There was no need for her to look after him and act like his wife… sure they are married under the eyes of law but Bani Dixit is not a wife to him in any sense.. she is nothing to him… and will continue to be so.
Bani walks on over to him on seeing that he makes no type of movement to retrieve his briefcase from her. She extends it over to him politely. Jai takes it from her, grabbing it from the handle, and doesn't meet her gaze. Mausi watches them both with a fond smile.
Bani hastily says, "Aapka kyaal rakhiye,"(trans: Take care of yourself) as she sees him again begin to make an attempt to leave. He stops once again, this time meets her eyes, but says not a word. Jai looks past her and at his smiling Mausi.
Jai: I'll see you in the evening.
His eyes linger back over to Bani, their eyes lock once again, and he turns away from her, walking out of the room in a rush. Bani watches him walk away from her in a slight daze, which she is brought out of by a nudge. Looking to her left, Bani stares at Mausi, who smiles affectionately at her. She runs her hand over her hair.
Mausi: It's wonderful to know that I do not need to care for Munna anymore….and that you are here to do just that.
Despite herself, Bani blushes, her cheeks turning a light shade of pink….
Mausi: …. Arre hain!
Suddenly it dawns on Mausi that she had forgotten to tell them all something important.
Mausi: I had forgotten to tell you all… I'm holding a small puja today in the afternoon. ..(thinking to herself loudly) I should had informed Munna beforehand… it's important that he along with everyone else attends this puja. Aditya---- you will make sure to tell Munna, won't you? I want the both of you to take some time off from work and be home on time for it.
Aditya: Of course, Mausi, I will…but---
Jigyasa goes ahead and asks the same question that was on Aditya's mind, in fact, …one everyone's mind.
Jigyasa: Puja? Mausi, koi kaas wajah hai, kya? (Trans: Prayer? Mausi, is there any special occasion?)
Mausi: It is for the well being of everyone and our home… I want all of you to be here. Understood?
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(Author's Note: Forgive me, I don't have a whole lot of knowledge about Hinduism, I'm writing as much as I know. I hope I won't offend anyone. Please do forgive me if I do. It's not my intention.)
Throughout the rest of the day, Bani helped Mausi with the chores around the house and with the preparations for the small puja being held in the mansion. Soon on afternoon approached and a few of the Walias began to show up. Saahil and Anu, accompanied by Rano, arrived back from their university and gladly helped out with Bani and Mausi, making sure that everything needed for the puja was there. Jigyasa came back from a little kitty party gathering at a friend's house and just went on to her room, telling Mausi that she will join them once the puja is to start. Aditya arrived no later than Jigyasa, cheering Mausi on his willingness to take time off from work to join the ceremony. She becomes upset though on seeing no sign of Jai.
Mausi: Aditya, tumhara dost kahan hai? (trans: Aditya, where is your friend?)
Aditya: Dost, Mausi? (obviously puzzled) (Trans: Friend, mausi?)
Mausi: Arre, wohi, joh office peh hai aur abh taak yahan nahi aaya. (trans: Oh you know, that one, who's at the office and hasn't come here yet.) Even though I had called him plenty of times to remind him to come home on time.
Aditya: (it clicks to him about who she is referring to) Your Munna will come soon, Mausi. He has a few things to do, but he promises he will come right on time. Don't worry.
Mausi just scowls to herself, not believing Aditya's words. She had been given this excuse many times, and most of those times, his "promises" didn't ever come true. Mausi turns over to Bani and smiles at her.
Mausi: Bani, beti, tum jao aur change karlo. (trans: Bani, you go on and change.) You have done enough work as it is. I can handle the rest.
Bani: (smiles politely) Ji, Mausi.
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Jai rests his chin into his joined hands, staring off in daze, and lost in his own thoughts. "Mamaji… it wasn't Mausi or Mama who had sent you the food--- it was Bani Mami… She knew you wouldn't have time to eat or you would have forgotten so she made sure to make you something to eat." He burrows his eyebrows further together, going through a deep trance of self thinking. "Look at how much your wife cares for you…. You're lucky to have her in your life, Munna."
Jai leans his head back against his chair and stares up at the ceiling. He rests his arms on the handles of the chair. What is she trying to pull? What is she exactly trying to do? Making him food…. laying out his nightwear… looking after his things… What is she proving by doing all this? There is no need for her to look after him… he certainly did not ask her to nor does he wish her to. In fact, all he actually wants from her is not to interfere. Is she trying to fool him into believing that she is innocent once again? Does she wish to be seen highly in his and everyone else's eyes? Why would she continue to try acting naive when he knew the truth of her real nature?
Jai straightens in his chair and pounds hard on his wooden desk, feeling aggravated and frustrated. The paper clips, papers, and other belongings on his desk shake from the bang.
She's driving him insane. His wife is driving him completely insane. What is she up to? Why doesn't she fight back with him? He was so damn sure that he would had gotten a reaction out of her with the threatening demise of her home. But not a single word came out of her mouth… She didn't say nor did she do anything, … How come? Even after his brutal comments and harsh actions his wife still continued to be polite and courteous to him. Could this all be some sort of plan? To fool him into believing that she is indeed innocent after all? Well then she is terribly mistaken… no petty fake concern of hers will blind him from the truth and reality.
Hearing his cell phone go off breaks Jai away from his angry thoughts and he searches through his coat pockets for his phone. Seeing "home" flash across the screen, he runs his fingers quickly through his hair, lets out a grouchy sigh,
Jai: (demanding) Hello?
Anu: Mamaji?
Jai: Yes, Anu, tell me. What is it? (hastily)
Anu: Um, Mamaji, Mausi had told me to tell you to quickly come home otherwise she swears she will hit you with a belan once she sees you.
Jai: Well why doesn't your Mausi tell me this herself?
Anu: She's angry at you….
Jai; (bored voice)… Tell her I will be arriving soon and not to worry.
Anu: Alright. See you then.
Jai shuts his cell phone closed and places it back into his pocket. Getting up from his seat, he gathers his things, putting them into his briefcase, pulls his coat around him, and walks out of the office after telling Raashi to cancel the rest of the plans on his schedule for the day.
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Part 11 B:
After being chased off to his room and told that he only has fifteen minutes to get ready by Mausi, Jai grouchily raced himself in getting ready on time for the puja because he knew he would experience hell from his Mausi for being late. Coming out the bathroom after a hot shower, Jai pulls on some blue jeans and throws a black kurta quickly over himself. He was slightly glad to know that Bani wasn't around in the room and was somewhere else…
Jai runs down the long marble stairs and is relieved to know that he has made it perfectly on time. The pundit ji sits in front of the flaming fire and Mausi speaks something to him. Everyone else is seated down obediently on the floor, waiting for the ceremony to begin…. Everyone with the exception of his wife, who seems not to be around anywhere…. Where could she be? Brushing off this thought and telling himself that he could care less, Jai sits down in his own spot.
Hearing the twinkle of payals from a distance catches his attention and causes him to turn around towards its direction. Jai sees her walking gracefully towards them with a thali, containing numerous of things, in her hands and a small smile on her pink lips. Because of his fat ego, he would never admit to himself how wonderful she looks in the pure crape saree designed in a purplish majenta color with matching sequins that she is currently wearing. Yet, he seems to be unable to take his eyes off of her, following her steps towards Mausi's side. He watches her hand the thali over to Mausi, who thanks her with a bright smile and hands it over to the pundit ji. Bani, who makes her way towards Rano, is surprised to be stopped by Mausi.
Mausi: Arre, Baho, tum wahan kyon jhare ho? Yahan aageh bato… Munna ke saath. (trans: Why are you going over there? Sit up here... with Munna.)
Bani hesitantly looks away from Mausi and over at Jai, who stares back at her. Unwillingly, she listens and sits down by Jai's side, trying her best to avoid his nerving glances. Satisfied by seeing them together, Mausi sits behind them, besides Dadi and Aditya. The Pundit ji immediately begins the puja, which goes by swiftly…….
They all stand up from the ground as it ends and slowly go off to their old routines. Saahil and Anu quickly run off to get ready to go out like they usually do. Rano waits around for Bani, who helps Mausi clear up. Adi helps his mother get up stairs. Jigyasa goes off to her room, claiming that she has a headache. Jai was just about to wander off to his study but immediately stops in his steps as he hears his phone ring. He takes the call and remains standing in the hall, chatting animatedly on his cell.
Mausi: Bahu, would you mind putting this back in the puja room?
Bani: Of course not, Mausi.
Bani takes the items from Mausi and prepares to walk towards the puja room with Rano following after her. She halts in her steps and turns to her sister, smiling sweetly at her.
Bani: Rano, it's okay. I've got it. Tum jao aur Mausi ko madat karo. Teek hai? (Trans: You go and help Mausi. Alright?)
Rano: Sure, Di.
Rano retreats back over to Mausi and asks whether she needs any help or not. Bani continues on towards the exit of the room and to the hall, where the prayer room was at the end of. Jai digs his free hand into his pant pocket and turns around, catching a glimpse of Bani walking past him at the same time as he does. He ignores her and casually casts his gaze slightly up rather than look at her and then looks the other way. But just as quickly as he had changed his gaze, he changes it back over to the ceiling and his body seems to still momentarily.
Jai stares on worriedly at the unexpected tilting chandelier, looking as if it were to crash and fall any second. He then looks over to Bani and his face pales. She continues to walk obliviously towards it, seconds away from standing right underneath the slanting chandelier. Panic over takes him and his heart begins to race. Dropping his phone down to the marble floor, Jai acts without another moment of thought, aiming for only one thing…. "Bani!", he shouts.
On hearing her name called out, Bani stops and continues no further. She stands right underneath the breaking chandelier, it's chains already starting to split away from the center hook, attached to the ceiling. Bani turns around and looks confused at her panic-stricken husband, rushing towards her with great speed.
Bani: Mr. Walia--- a-aph kya khar rah--- (Trans: Mr.Walia-- what are you---)
Jai: (terrified) Bani, move out of the way!
Bani: (terribly puzzled) Ji?
Jai: Move out of the way!!!!
Jai startles Bani by grabbing her into his arms, pushing them both back, and hard down onto the floor. Bani lets out a sharp gasp as he falls on top of her. Jai ducks his head down next to hers as he hears the sharp sound of a crashing and shattering glass make contact with the floor.
"Didi!"--"Munna-Bani!", Rano and Mausi call out to them in complete fright and worry. Both Jai and Bani look over to the site of the accident after a few seconds, recovering themselves, clinging onto one another. Jai looks back down at his wife's pale face, who was still in his tight embrace and staring dazedly at the shattered chandelier. What she does next surprises him….. She faints.
************************************************************ ********************************************************
Mausi begins to sob uncontrollably, continuing to mutter how bad of an omen this is that Bani was just about to suffer a near death incident right after the puja that was held for all of their well being. Jai ignores her cries and Rano's and proceeds to hold up Bani in his arms and take her upstairs to their room. As they arrive before it, Aditya hurriedly opens the door and lets Jai enter in first, Bani dangling unconsciously in his arms. Jai gently sets his wife down onto their bed and covers her with the comforter. He sits down on the bed besides her, staring into her white face with full concern.
Mausi: Who knows what would had happened if you weren't there to save her, Munna. Bani would had….. (she breaks into an awful cry, which Rano also follows)
Jai shudders by her comment….not wanting to think of the possibility of her words. What if he wasn't there to note the tilting chandelier? What if he were in his study? What if at that exact moment Bani had stepped under it and it ….. No, he couldn't even think of It.
Aditya: (croaks, also white in the face) Mausi, don't dwell on what could have happened… be thankful for what had actually happened… Bani is safe now.
Jigyasa: (bored voice) She's perfectly fine…. There's no need to over react.
Rano, offended, glares at Jigyasa. Anu and Saahil shake their heads at their mother with disbelief. Even Jai surprisingly casts Jigyasa a silencing look, making her say no more. Everyone else ignores her. Mausi just thinks that Jigyasa is trying to lighten the situation and make everyone feel better.
Dadi: Bhagwaan ki lakh lakh shukur ke Bani teek hai… aur Jai wahan tha usko paachanliye. (trans: Thank God that Bani is alright... and that Jai was there to save her.)
Jai shuts his eyes and doesn't move nor say anything until a long moment, continuing to ignore everyone's talks and cries. Finally he opens them and casts his gaze at Aditya.
Jai: Aditya, call the Doctor now. Say it's an emergency.
Aditya nods his head and pulls out his phone, dialing a few digits and then informing the Doctor of Bani. He is reassured that he will arrive in less than fifteen minutes. Rano leaves Anu's side and sits down on the other side of the bed next to her sister. Jai looks up at her and watches the tears roll down her pale cheeks.
Rano runs a hand through her sister's black hair and sheds more tears. She glances up and stares at Jai….but not with anger as she usually does…. no… today she looks at him with gratitude… for saving her elder sister's life. Jai looks in the other direction, not comfortable with how intensely his sister-in-law is staring at him.
Rano: (shaky) Mr. Walia….t-thank you… thank you so-so much.
Jai gazes back at her tearing face. Finding himself speechless, Jai looks down instead at Bani, who is still very unconscious. Just as promised, Dr. Saxena arrived in less than fifteen minutes with his equipment and checked up on Bani's state. Jai stood mutely watching him do so.
Dr. Saxena: There's nothing to worry about, Mr. Walia, your wife is well. She was just experiencing a state of shock… therefore she fainted. But still… I recommend that you all let her rest for awhile. A good rest should make her feel better.
Jai: (nods his head) Thank you, Doctor.
************************************************************ ******************************************************** ***********
Jai left his bedroom, leaving his sister-in-law by his still unconscious wife's side, and locked himself in his Study. He lets out a long exhale and lowers his face into his palms. A series of questions attack him… regarding the attempt he had made in saving Bani's life.
Seeing that chandelier dangling over her head had scared the life out of him…. Why?… He did not know. From what he remembered he hated his wife... Then where did all this concern and worry come from? Of course he wasn't going to let her come to harm… even if she is a woman whom he loathes and isn't on good terms with… Any humane person would had done the same… Right?… But his reaction…. He didn't expect at all… where did all this care come from? She's fine now, there's no need to care anymore… besides he needs to remember the kind of woman she is. But why is it that whenever he thinks about that close near death incident… the thought of losing Bani… his heart just seems to stop from fright?
She isn't anything to him… so why the strong reaction?
************************************************************ ******************************************************** *************
Bani stirs a little in her slumber and lifts her eyelids open. She slowly scans around the room and becomes confused as to why she is here in bed when just a few seconds ago she was downstairs going to the puja room. But then it hits her like lightning…. The chandelier falling right on the spot where she had occupied seconds before… Mr. Walia saving her by pushing her aside… and then her fainting.
"Didi", she hears a gentle voice speak and a squeeze on her hand. Turning to her left she sees her baby sister staring at her with tears in her eyes.
Bani: (softly) Rano?
Rano: Oh Didi, I was so scared! if anything had happened to you--- I-I would had killed myself.
Bani: (soothing) Rano, don't say anything like that… Look at me…. I'm perfectly alright.
Rano: Just thinking about how close you were to death scares me so much----
Bani: Rano…. Don't worry... I'm fine... (small smile)
Rano: ….(watery smile) Mr. Walia had saved you right on time. He had seen that the chandelier was going to break so he pushed you immediately out of the way. … I guess you're right… He isn't such a horrible man as I had thought… I am forever grateful to him for saving your life.
Bani continues to smile gently, but her mind wonders off onto Mr. Walia. He had saved her… pushing all his differences with her aside and only thinking about her safety… he had saved her… He could had just warned her about the chandelier and let her move out of the way herself… but he came running to her rescue…. This must mean that he cares. No matter how hard he tries to hide it from her, no matter how many times he tells her that he hates her, Bani knows that there is a part in her husband that still cares for her… just as he had before they had gotten married.
************************************************************
Part 12:
A couple of days went by with everyone worrying over Bani, with the exception of Jigyasa of course who thought that everyone was being ridiculous. Though the horrifying incident slowly faded away and everyone learned to forget it and move on. They were thankful that Bani was okay. Bani noted that Jai was quieter than usual lately and barely said a word unless spoken to. She had tried thanking him for saving her life, but he had only brushed her off.
Jai couldn't seem to understand what was happening to him all of a sudden. Why he was behaving the way he is. The incident still hadn't left him and he continued to shiver every time he thought about it. … Though he didn't understand why… What is it that he feels towards Bani? He had thought it was hate, but now lately… he is doubting his own thinking.
************************************************************ *******************************************************
Bani comes out of the bathroom, completely ready, and sees that Jai is still sound asleep on bed, the comforter barely on him, his back turned to her. She looks over at the clock and sees that it is past 8 o'clock, he is usually awake before then. Should she wake him up or let him awake on his own? No, she couldn't let him wake up on his own… who knows when he will and he'll become late for work.
Hesitantly Bani walks around the bed and to his side. She stalls for a couple of minutes, not having the courage to wake him up and experience his angry wrath. But she knew that it is important for her to wake him. Nervously she calls out to him….
Bani: Mr. Walia….
No response.
Bani: (clears her throat) … Mr. Walia?
Still no response.
Bani: (slightly louder) Mr. Walia?
Jai doesn't move at all and remains sleeping. Not knowing what else to do, Bani leans down by his side, meeting the same level, and then tries shaking him lightly on his shoulder.
Bani: Mr. Walia?… Mr. Walia, please wake up… It's 8:25... You will become late….
Jai stirs a little and it takes him awhile to fully wake up and open his eyes. As he does… he is greeted by the sight of his wife, peering at him with a nervous expression. Alerted by this, Jai quickly sits up in bed and tiredly runs a hand through his hair. Then looking back at Bani… he talks.
Jai: What do you want? (growls)
Bani: Ji… woh… you were still sleeping… and I thought I should….
Jai: (still grumpy) I'm awake. You can go.
Lowering her eyes down, Bani nods her head and stands up. Leaving him to get ready, Bani walks out of the room…..
************************************************************ ********************************
She wanders around the kitchen preparing food for breakfast with Tony by her side. In the middle of cooking, Dadi calls out for Tony. Tony gives Bani an apologetic look.
Bani: It's okay, Tony, you may go. I have everything under control.
Tony leaves Bani by herself in the kitchen, tending to the cooking food. Needing some sugar, Bani realizes that she is too short to reach for it. It was in one of the top cabinets. Tony would usually grab it for her since he was unbelievably tall. Knowing that she can't wait for him, Bani looks around the kitchen for a stool which she finds in a corner. She grabs it and pulls it in front of the cabinets. Stepping on to it, Bani reaches out for the cabinet and stands on her toes to give herself a boost. She struggles to reach for it, shifting the wobbly stool side to side. Just as she manages to grab the container of sugar, the stool falls beneath her feet, causing her to go with it. Frightened, Bani squints her eyes and grips hard onto the container in her hands and waits for her to meet contact with the hard floor, but is instead surprised to be caught in a pair of strong arms. Lifting one of her eyelids open, Bani sees Jai staring down at her with an expression of annoyance. She opens her other eye and flushes terribly underneath his gaze.
Jai had entered the kitchen, in search for Mausi, and had seen Bani reaching for the sugar, the stool shaking underneath her. Seeing the stool tilt and Bani slip, he quickly made it to her side and luckily caught her on time. Her carelessness annoys him... what is she, a magnet to trouble?
Jai: Do you have no common sense at all?--- Using a stool with an uneven leg?
Bani continues to blush with embarrassment. Jai places her down at her feet and Bani lowers her eyes, not able to meet his.
Bani: … I- I needed the sugar….
Jai: Couldn't you wait for Tony instead of getting it yourself when you know you can't reach it?
Bani: (continuing to look down) …. Ji… woh….main…
Jai: Forget it, I don't want to hear it.
Bani looks up at his angered face. His anger confuses her, but makes her feel slightly happy… her carelessness must be the reason for his anger, which must mean that he does care for her. She holds in her forming smile.
Bani: … Ji, a-aph… kitchen mein? …
Jai: (demanding) Kyon? Am I not allowed to come into the kitchen?
Bani: (blushing ferociously) Ji, nahi. I didn't mean it like that… I was just--- D-do you need anything?
Jai: Is it necessary that I have to tell you everything?
Bani: (flustered) N..nahi to… main to bus----
Jai: (cuts her off, barks) Where's Mausi?
Bani: Woa aapne room mein hai… bus anwale hai…
Jai, without saying another word to her, leaves Bani alone in the kitchen once again, hugging the container of sugar against her, and looking on after him….
************************************************************ ******************************************************* **********
9 o'clock approaches and everyone arrives at the table, sitting in their regular seats, ready for Breakfast. Tony sets the table and Bani comes out, bringing the food. On seeing Mausi arrive and also sit down, relaxes Jai. He had been waiting impatiently for her, wanting to tell her something. After serving, Bani sits down in her seat, next to Jai, and with Rano on her other side.
Jai: Mausi, aph kahan the? (trans: Mausi, where were you?) I have been looking for you.
Mausi: Main to tumhari Dadi ke pass thi. Kyon? Kya hua? (trans: I was with your Dadi. Why? What happened?)
Jai: I just needed to inform you that---
Dadi: (excited) Arre, Billo, tell him what we were talking about doing.
Jai stops midway in his sentence from being cut off by Dadi and looks at her strangely, then at his Mausi.
Jai:… Wh-what were you two talking about?
Mausi: (smiling) Oh, well we were discussing how long it's been since we all have done something together as a family. Why don't we go to the Farmhouse tomorrow, Munna? It's been so long since we've last been there.
Jigyasa: Mausi, Farmhouse?
Mausi: Hain, kyon nahi? (trans: Yes, why not?) We'll have fun, just like the other times.
Jigyasa makes a face and just continues to eat her food. Aditya, Saahil, and Anu look down at their food, trying to avoid the topic. The last thing they wanted to do was go to the Farmhouse. Aditya just wasn't in the mood and his kids… his kids had plans of their own, and the Farmhouse would come in the way of them. Bani and Rano just wear blank expressions on their faces, which Mausi clearly sees.
Mausi: Arre, Bahu, don't tell me you don't know about the Farmhouse.
Bani throws Jai a startled look. Jai avoids her and Mausi's gaze and instead looks down at his plate.
Mausi: Munna, tum bhi nah! (trans: Munna, you are too much!) It's been more than a month since you've been married and you haven't even mentioned to her about the Farmhouse?
Jai: (mumbles) I didn't think it was important to mention, Mausi. Besides, tomorrow won't be possible for me.
Mausi: (puzzled) Kyon nahi?
Jai: I'm needed in Goa. I have to go and look at the site where they're building the other chain to our hotels.
Mausi: (disappointed) Oh… For how long will you be gone?
Jai: … Perhaps for a few days or for how long it takes. That's what I wanted to tell you.
Mausi is quiet for a little while and Jai can see that she's brought down by this.
Mausi: ... (depressed tone) I was looking forward to it…. All of us spending time with each other.
Dadi: Arre, koi baut nahi Billo. (trans: Oh, don't worry Billo.) When Jai comes back, then we all can go. Kyon, Jai? (trans: Right, Jai?)
Jai has no other choice but to oblige.
Jai: ... Of course.
Mausi: Kher… when do you have to go to Goa?
Jai: Tomorrow morning.
Suddenly an idea creeps into Mausi's eyes and a smile builds on her lips.
Mausi: (cheerfully) I have a wonderful idea. Why don't you take Bani with you?
Bani who had been sipping on her water throughout this whole conversation, literally chokes on it and starts coughing. Rano, worried, pats her sister's back. Jai looks over at Bani, whose face turns red.
Mausi: Arre, Bahu, careful. Don't drink too much.
Bani: (flushing) Ji.
Mausi: Anyways.. What was I saying? Oh yes- Take Bani along. That way I don't have to worry about you.
Jai: That isn't necessary, Mausi. I've gone to plenty Business trips by myself. I think I can handle this one also by myself.
Jai lifts up his own glass and drinks his orange juice. Dadi shakes her head at him.
Dadi: Arre budu, she is suggesting that you take Bani along and make a honeymoon out of it.
This time it is Jai's turn to choke on his drink. Bani's face grows an even darker shade of red. Anu and Saahil giggle at this, but Jai silences them with a look. Terrified, Bani holds onto her sister's hand, underneath the table, for some support. She hopes that Jai is successful in not taking her along. She knew she couldn't able to handle going with him to Goa for even a day. How can she manage a few?
Mausi: Arre, what is it with you both? Do you two not know how to drink?
Bani flushes more by her remark and surprisingly even Jai has the decency to look embarrassed.
Jai: (croaks) Honeymoon?
Mausi: Hain, Honeymoon. Beji had told me that you two haven't even been able to go on one since you two have gotten married. But now you two have the opportunity to.
Jai: (hastily) But Mausi, I will be stuck in meetings and will be wrapped up with work. We won't… we won't have time… for a honeymoon.
Mausi: Nonsense. You won't be stuck in meetings for all those days. And you said yourself that you are only going there to look at the site, meaning that there will be days that you'll have nothing to do.
Jai: (exasperated) Mausi….
Mausi: Munna, don't refuse.
She flashes him a pleading look, the same pleading look that she always uses with him. Jai groans to himself. The things he has to do to make his Mausi happy….
Jai: Teek hai, Mausi… whatever you want.
Mausi smiles brightly at him. Bani stares at him with shock. Jai, avoiding her gaze, stands up from his chair and tells them all that he is getting late. He makes his way out of the room.
Mausi: (cheerfully) Bani, after eating, go on upstairs to your room and start packing. And hain, start packing for Munna also, I'm sure he won't have time to after he comes back from the office.
Bani: …J-Ji..
She lowers her eyes down to her food.
************************************************************ ******************************** *****
Bani spent the most of the day packing for herself and for Jai, using separate suitcases of course. She had done her packing quite easily, only taking a few sarees, night wears, and toiletries with her. But when it came to do her husband's share… she was lost. She scanned his whole wardrobe, wondering what he would want to wear, which was a difficult task. Bani was scared to decide for him… Finally she just chose the suits that she thought would look good on him. Black suits, a white suit, a blue, and then a gray. She then chose the undershirts: black, white, pink, blue, and red. She carefully packed all this into suitcase, made sure to pack in some of his shoes and night suits as well, and left his toiletries to do on his own.
Setting their suitcases aside, Bani went downstairs to help with the house chores and make dinner. Dinner went by swiftly and Bani was a little disappointed on not seeing Jai join them. He is probably stuck at work, she concluded.
Soon twelve o'clock strolled by, and Bani continued to pace back and forth, waiting for him, and occasionally looking out of the window for any sign of him. She wrings her hands together. She had been waiting for him for the past hour, worrying sick over him. Bani had tried going to sleep without him, but didn't feel right without him near. She couldn't go to sleep peacefully knowing that he hadn't come back home yet.
On hearing a honk, Bani quickly looks out of the window and sees his car waiting outside in front of the gate. A smile of relief appears on her lips. He honks again, gesturing for the guard to open the gate. Seeing Jai's car pull up on the driveway, Bani hastily makes her way over to his wardrobe and pulls out one of his night suits. She lays it down on his side of the bed and then lays down on her own side. She closes her eyes and pretends to be sleeping. Bani didn't want him to know that she had been waiting for him.
Minutes later she hears the bedroom door open. She stiffens when she hears his loud footsteps walk into the room and approach the bed.
Jai stares at Bani's back and then looks down at where she had laid his nightwear. He had told her a couple of times, warning her not to touch his stuff, but it seemed to not have an effect on her and he stopped trying. Instead he became accustomed to seeing his clothes laid out on the bed. Silently he takes it into his hand and walks over to the bathroom to change.
Bani patiently waits for him and closes her eyes once again when she hears the bathroom door open.
Jai casts his gaze over at Bani again and looks at her sleeping face for a moment before he walks over to his side of the bed. He switches his lamp off and realizes that the lamp on Bani's side is also on. Not knowing what else to do but turn it off himself, Jai is careful with not waking her up, and leans over next to her, reaching for the lamp. His chest brushes up against her back. Bani's heart races by this contact and she grips tightly onto her pillow. A click is heard once the light is switched off.
She feels Jai slowly move away from her. Jai lays down on his side, places a hand behind his head, and stares up at the ceiling, lost in his own thoughts. Neither of them knew that they were both awake till late into the night…. thinking of one another.
************************************************************ ******************************
Jai tried his level best in convincing Mausi to stay home and that it wasn't necessary to come drop him and Bani off to the Airport, but she was adamant. Along with Mausi, Rano and Aditya volunteered to come along. Jai, feeling annoyed, agreed. They all drove in the same car and got Jai and Bani checked in. Their luggage was transported into the plane and now all they had to do was wait for their flight to be called so they could board onto to the plane.
Bani fiddles with the pallu of her teal saree and creates tinkling sounds with her bangles. Jai, who was seated down in one of the black benches in the airport, yapping on the phone with one of his business associates, informing him of his arrival, was intently watching Bani looking nervous. He watches as Rano tries calming her down and placing her hands onto of Bani's nervous moving ones. Bani drops her pallu.
Rano: Di, don't worry, you'll be fine.
Bani: I'm scared, Rano. I've never been on a plane before.
Rano: Di, it's just a plane… which is going to transport you from here over to Goa. Please, relax. You'll be fine. Nothing will happen. Besides, Mr. Walia will be with you.
Bani: Still…
"First class passengers of fight 118 to Goa, please begin to Board the plane immediately. I repeat, first class passengers of flight 118, please begin to board the plane", the woman over the intercom announces, her voice echoing through the large airport, and creating a rush of fear to swarm inside of Bani. Jai takes this as his cue to get off of the phone. He quickly says his farewell to his associate and stands up, standing just nearby Bani, who seemed to have frozen in her spot.
Mausi, smiling encouragingly, walks over to Bani and Jai.
Mausi: Now you two.. Have a good trip.
Aditya: Bani, call me once you arrive there.
Bani: (still feeling frightened) J--Ji Bhaiya.
Aditya: (noticing this) Kya hua? Why do you look scared?
Rano: Bhaiya, she's scared. She's never been on an airplane before.
Mausi: Arre, Bani, there's no need to be scared. Munna hai tumhari paas. (trans: Munna is with you.) You won't be alone. … Munna, take care of her.
Jai: Ji, Mausi… We should go now. ….Come, Bani.
He gestures her to follow after him. Jai begins to walk towards the gate, but seeing that Bani isn't beside him or behind him, he stops in his steps and turns around. He sees her still standing besides Rano, Aditya, and Mausi, her face pale.
Mausi: (encouraging) Bahu… don't worry. You'll be fine.
Bani doesn't budge. Slightly peeved by this, Jai walks back over to her and stands before her. Bani slowly lifts her eyes up at him and stares at him scared. Without a word to her, Jai takes her hand and puts it in his. Bani quickly looks down at their joined hands and glances back up at him, who looks at her with no expression and just tugs on her hand, signaling her to follow him. She looks over at Mausi, who only encourages her with a smile, and then over to Rano and Aditya, who surprisingly also smile lightly at her, and gesture her to go on. Bani lets herself be lead towards the gate, and on reaching there, Jai drops her hand and gives their tickets to the woman standing by the gateway.
************************************************************ ******************************** ********
Because of her lack of sleep, Bani fell asleep in the middle of the flight, her head resting on Jai's shoulder. Jai tried a few times to move her off of him and keep her head straight up, but it always ended up tilting back onto his shoulder. Giving up, he let her lean on him and rest on his shoulder. Even he was tired from not sleeping well from last night and unknowingly also fell asleep, resting his head against Bani's. ……………
************************************************************ ********************************
Part 13 A:
Jai had awaken out of the short nap on his own and looked down at his shoulder to find Bani still sound asleep on him. Realizing that he had fallen asleep on her also, he straightens up in his seat, but is not able to move an inch due to Bani's head resting on him. Sighing, he rests his head back against the headrest of his seat and tries to remain still, careful with not disturbing her. He glances back down at Bani and gazes at her for awhile, lost in the innocence of her face…forgetting everything else. She looks like a child when she sleeps, completely oblivious to everything, so innocent… so naive…..so beautiful. How can someone sleep so peacefully, he questioned himself.
Jai sees a strand of her hair fall onto her shut eyes, causing her to make a face and stir. Immediately without a moment thinking, he makes a motion to move it away for her, bringing his hand towards her face, but he stops just as his fingers brush her cheeks gently, realization dawns upon him. Having some control over himself, Jai rolls his hand into a fist and places it back to his side. Seeing one of the attendants passing by, he stops her and requests for a champagne, feeling the strong need for it. He could feel Bani's warm breath on his neck and it was driving him insane. A nerving feeling develops in his chest and stomach.
As the flight attendant comes back with a glass of champagne for him, Jai downs it all in one go and hastily asks for another one. She looks at him a little confused, wondering what is wrong with him and causing him to be so edgy, but nonetheless, obliges.
************************************************************ *******************************
Going through some turbulences, the plane shook Bani awake, bringing her out of her deep slumber. Bani confusedly blinks around and lifts her head up. Her gaze travels up and she is greeted with a pair of electrifying gray eyes. She finds her husband staring at her, watching her closely. Taken aback by this, Bani looks down and realizes that she had fallen asleep on his shoulder. Quickly her cheeks flush with embarrassment and she begins to stammer.
Bani: Woh--- Mr. Walia--- main-… I'm sorry.
Jai brushes her off and turns back to the magazine in his hands, completely ignoring her. Bani sits right up in her seat and dejectedly looks down. She pushes back a strand of hair away from her face and tucks it behind her ear, her bangles twinkling as she does this.. Again the plane shakes, which startles Bani and fills her with fear. As a reaction, she grips hard onto her armrests and presses her back against her seat.
Jai casts Bani a sideway glance and sees her muttering something beneath her breath and her hands hastened tight around the armrests. He flips a page in the magazine and says in a bored tone…
Jai: … It's just turbulence. The plane isn't going to crash… (flipping through another page) nor are you going to die.
After hearing this, Bani's grip loosens a little, and she begins to feel foolish. But as the plane shakes once more, she tightens her grip back on the armrests and stiffly sits in her seat. The plane continues to shake, building more and more fear into Bani, almost driving her into tears of fright. She shuts her eyes and says the first thing that comes to her mind….
Bani: Mr. Walia…
Jai lowers the magazine back down and looks at her frightened self. He begins to feel a little sympathy towards her, but denies it. However, Jai begins to reassure her… To put an end to her annoying pointless worries, he tells himself.
Jai: Look… Nothing's going to happen. It'll stop in no time. This is normal.
The turbulence becomes stronger and Bani hastily grips onto Jai's coat sleeve instead. Jai, surprised, looks down at her hand.
Bani: (her eyes still shut) Make it stop, Mr. Walia. … Please make it stop.
He looks back up and into her terrified face. Jai can see how genuine her fear is… Awkwardly, he lets her continue to grip tight onto him.
Jai: … You're going to be fine, Bani… (not knowing what else to say)
Just as he says this, the shaking decreases and the plane becomes steady once again. Yet Bani continues to hold onto him, refusing to let go, her eyes still shut. Jai watches her silently, suddenly absorbed into how unbelievably cute she looks afraid… completely childish. The way she squints her eyes shut… her eyebrows scrunched down together from fright…her full lips quivering….
Bani: Is it gone?… (softly asks)
Jai snaps out of his daze and mentally hits himself for being so ridiculous…. Here he is admiring the beauty of his wife when actually he should be loathing her and detesting the very look of her…. What is happening to him?
Jai: Yes, …. it's gone.
He speaks after clearing his throat and getting himself back together. Bani opens her eyes and looks around the plane slowly, seeking reassurance that it is indeed gone. Feeling her grip on him not loosen a bit, he speaks once more.
Jai: If you'd be so kind and let go of my sleeve already…
Bani looks over at him, confused, and then looks down as to where she is gripping on to…. She blushes as she sees she is shamelessly holding onto him. Immediately she lets go.
Bani: (barely audible) I'm sorry…
They both sit in their seats, going through an awkward silence. Jai tries reading the magazine in his hands, but can't seem to concentrate and only ends up being lost in his own confusing thoughts. A few minutes go by and Bani feels the need to use the restroom. She sits by the window seat and therefore would have to ask Jai to get up so she can get to the aisle. Nervously she calls for his attention….
Bani: Mr. Walia----
Jai: Hm. (short)
Bani: Woh--- washroom… mujhe jhaane hai… (trans: Washroom... I have to go...)
She hears him let out a frustrated sigh, yet he obliges and gets out of his seat for her to let her go through. Bani softly thanks him and tries to get through their seats. Just as she gets out, Jai sits back down in his seat. Bani stands in the aisle, adjusting her saree quickly before going to the restroom. She lets out a startled gasp as a sudden rough shake from turbulence knocks her off of her feet and causes her to land straight into a lap. For some support she holds onto anything that she can. After taking the abrupt shock in, Bani looks up and blushes as red as a tomato as she sees her husband stare at her with a bemused sort of look and after noticing that she is gripping tightly onto his coat and sitting in his lap. Their eyes lock with one another, and they both hold each other's gaze.
Jai: (softly) Bani….
Jai speaks after awhile of a long eye locking session….
Bani: Ji?
Jai: …. Didn't you have to go to the washroom?
Bani: Ji….
Jai: Well don't you think you should get off from my lap first?
Bani, who was so caught up with looking at him, didn't realize she was still remained sitting in his lap. She blushes a dark shade of red and mutters a quick sorry. She gets up and rushes off down the aisle towards the restroom, having the need to splash cold water on her now flushed face….
************************************************************ ***********************
The plane landed safely and Jai and Bani made their way to get their luggage, quietly, not saying a word to one another. Bani followed closely behind him, feeling that it were best for her to do so and not get in his way. A driver waited from them just right outside of the Airport and greeted them. After their luggage was placed into the trunk of the car, Jai and Bani were driven to the hotel that they will stay for the remainder of their "Honeymoon"….
Once they had gotten settled into their hotel room, ("Unfortunately" every room in the hotel was currently booked, therefore Jai could not request for a suite or separate rooms), Jai had quickly gone into the restroom, wanting to refresh himself after the flight. Bani mutely sat on the edge of the bed, not knowing what else to do. As she sits, pondering to herself, she suddenly remembers her brother's words.
"Call me as soon as you arrive there"……
Not wasting another second, Bani eagerly takes out her cell phone and dials his number…..
Aditya: Hello?
Bani: (faintly smiles) Bhaiya?
Aditya: (immediately cheers up) Bani, tum? When did you get off the plane?
Bani: Just awhile ago, Bhaiya.
Aditya: To… kaise raha tumhare flight? (trans: How was your flight?) I hope you weren't too scared. You didn't trouble Jai, did you? (slightly laughs)
Bani heats up as she remembers falling into his lap, gripping tightly onto his coat's sleeve, and falling asleep on him. … Oh yeah, she troubled him a lot..
Bani: (blushing) …Ji, nahi. …(hastily) Aph kaise hai?(trans: How are you?) Rano? Aur Mausi?
Aditya: (letting out a throaty laugh) Bani, you are acting as if you haven't seen me for months. We had just last seen each other this morning.
Bani: (sheepishly) Ji, mujhe maloom hai…paar phir bhi… mujhe aaph saabh ki baut yaad aahri hai… (Yes, I know.. but still... I miss you all a lot.)
Aditya: (grinning) … Aur hum bhi. Tum fikar maat karo, Bani. Bus kuch dheeno ke baut hai… and in no time you will be back here in Mumbai. (trans: And we do too. You don't worry. It's just a matter of a few days.)
Bani: …. Bhaiya… (nervously)
She didn't have to finish her sentence nor explain her apprehensive state, she knew her brother would understand.
Aditya: (sensing her nervousness, serious tone)…. You don't worry… Jai will do nothing…. I can see that something is different about him these past few days… ever since that incident with the chandelier…but if he still does, I will take the next flight to Goa and personally beat him till he regrets every little awful thing he had done to you.
His threat directed towards her husband still doesn't seem to get rid of the nervousness and fear inside of her, yet she feels touched by his offer.
Bani: (shakily smiles) That isn't necessary Bhaiya… I'm just….nervous is all. … being away from you and Rano.
Aditya: (gently) Hey… I know that you must be terrified to be by yourself with Jai… but I can honestly say that….you are in safe hands. Jai may be burning with the want of revenge… but he is no monster. … and who knows, perhaps this little vacation will cool down his anger and get rid of the differences that he holds against you…. Which from my point of view is definitely possible now that insane twisted woman isn't around trying to further instigate him against you.
Bani: Insane, twisted woman?? (curious, puzzled)
Aditya: That ex-wife of mine of course. Who else could possibly be more wretched than her?
This causes Bani to giggle. She opens her mouth to reply, but she speaks nothing as she hears the restroom door open. Feeling tensed, she quickly informs her brother that she has to go and that she will talk to him later.
Aditya: But, Bani----
She cuts the call just as Jai comes walking out of the bathroom, buttoning the cuffs of his sleeves to his silk blue dress shirt. Bani turns around and looks at him walk over to his suitcase and open it. He withdraws a tie and pulls it around his neck, attempting to fasten it around him.
Jai hated ties, he could never figure out how to tie them. Always he would get either Jigyasa, Dadi, or Mausi to do it for him. He fusses to himself as he tries to figure out a way into successfully tying it.
Bani can't help but softly smile at the sight. Her husband, a man who runs a company worth billions, can't even manage to knot his tie. She mutely watches him mutter under his breath, continuing to adjust his collar and attempt to knot his tie once again.
Completely aggravated, Jai gives up hope and makes a movement to remove the tie off from him, but is stopped by a gentle voice. "Ji, main karoon? (trans: Should I do it?), " He turns and looks over at Bani who slowly approaches him. He looks down at his tie, down at his watch, notes the time, and then back over to her. Jai brings his hand back to his side and only gestures her to do so with a soft nod.
Bani nervously stands before him and hesitantly takes the two ends of his tie, which was wrapped around his neck, into her hands. Jai peers at her, watching her avoid his gaze and smoothly begin at her given task. As she pulls the knot that she formed up to the front of his neck, her eyes travel up with it and end up locking with her husband's. She shyly lowers her down and continues to hold onto his tie.
Bani: (talking to his chest) Aph kaheen jhare hai? (trans: Are you going somewhere?)
Jai: (curt) Hain.
Bani: Kahan? (innocently)
She slowly lets go of her hold on his tie. Jai adjusts his collar and turns from her. He grabs his coat from the bed and pulls it on him.
Jai: I had come here for business…. Not for a "honeymoon" that you were hoping for.
Bani's cheeks flush. She watches him walk to the dresser and pick up his watch, fastening it around his wrist.
Bani: You are required to go there now?….
He doesn't respond. Jai fixes his watch onto his wrist and makes his way over to the other side of the room, picking up his cell phone and placing it into his pocket. He walks on over to the door. Bani stares at his retreating back.
Bani: …. When--- when will you be coming back?
As she asks this, Jai opens the door and stops in his steps, letting his hand linger on the doorknob. "…What does it matter to you?". Slowly he turns to his left, showing Bani only a side profile of his face. Looking back ahead, he slams the door behind him, leaving Bani standing alone by herself in the middle of their hotel room….
************************************************************ **************************
Part 13 B:
Jai continues to glance down at his watch every few seconds, noting that they will become late if they don't get a move on. He sits up from the bed and walks around a bit, letting out an exasperated sigh. She had been in there forever, keeping him restlessly waiting for her. He had already received two phone calls from Akshay, his good old friend that he had happened to bump into on their stay in Goa, to ask where he was and whether he will be coming to the party. Of course Jai reassured him, telling them that him and his wife are on their way.
His patience running very thin, Jai trots over to the bathroom door and knocks hard onto it.
Jai: (angrily) Would you honor me with your presence already? Because of you I am running late..
On hearing no response, Jai knocks once again.
Jai: Bani… will you jus------
Jai stops midway in his words as he hears the doorknob unlock and he steps away as he sees the bathroom door open. His irritation and frustration seems to disappear as soon as his wife appears before him, revealing herself to him. He sucks in his breath and feels his heart skip a beat. His eyes wander down and up, taking her all in.
She looks amazingly beautiful in Georgette-mix cream saree, with printed silver polka dots all over and along with the fusica pink border, that fits her all in the right places. Her hair is in perfect loose curls, resting neatly on her shoulders. Her kholed soft light brown eyes meet with his dark gray ones. A small nervous smile forms on her pink glossed lips. She fiddles with the pallu of her saree.
Bani's Outfit:
Bani: Woh... I'm sorry, Mr. Walia... I am ready now.
Jai doesn't reply as he is still stunned by her appearance, trying to digest it down. Bani burns under his gaze.
Bani: (shyly) Mr. Walia?
Jai looks up at her as she addresses him. Her cheeks flush.
Bani: Kya hum chale? (quietly) (trans: Shall we go?)
He quickly snaps out of it and clears his throat. Jai nods his head in agreement and moves out of the way to let her get through. He walks over to the door of their room and opens it. Moving to the side, he holds the door and motions for Bani to go through. She smiles meekly at him and passes through, walking into the hall. Jai takes in a deep breath and steps out of the room also, closing the door behind them.
************************************************************ ********
Throughout the whole drive, Jai and Bani sat in a very uncomfortable silence. In fact, so far on their honeymoon all they ever had experienced was awkward silence, so they have become a little used to it. Bani kept her eyes fixed out of the window, making sure not to look over at Jai, and all Jai ever did was try to keep his eyes off of his gorgeous looking wife, who was hell bent on not making eye contact with him. Jai switches his gaze over to the road and steers the car to he left.
What is wrong with me?-Staring at her like a pathetic idiot. I've lost it… I've definitely lost it.
He shakes himself out of his thoughts and forces himself to focus his attention on the road ahead of him and not to the person next to him…..
Soon the both arrive at the hotel where the Christmas Eve party is being held at, hosted by Akshay, and Jai parks the car nearby. He tucks in the keys into his pocket and walks on towards the front entrance, Bani following behind him nervously. As they enter through the glass doors, they are greeted by the sight of elegant decorations hung everywhere, green and red curtains, wreaths, candles, etc. Bani looks around, staring at all the unknown people to her, happily associating with one another. She stares over at Jai's direction and sees him acknowledge someone.
Jai finds his friend Akshay and smiles friendly in his direction. Akshay approaches them both with a wide grin on his face, his classily dressed wife also walking by his side.
Akshay: Jai! You're finally here!
Jai: Yes, I know. Sorry for arriving so late.
Akshay: You came! That's all that matters! --- This must be your wife, isn't it?
Jai glances over to his side at Bani, who smiles lightly at his friend. He nods his head in agreement.
Jai: Yes, she is.
Akshay: Lovely meeting you. --- This is my own wife, Tanvi.
Tanvi: (sincere smile) It's nice to meet you both.
Both Jai and Bani smile politely in her direction.
Akshay: Come on in! (cheerful) Join the party!
Jai and Bani make a movement to proceed on forwards, but are startled to be unexpectedly stopped by Tanvi.
Tanvi: (excitedly) Oh no! Don't move!
They two halt immediately and stay put. Both stare at Tanvi strangely, not understanding the reason for her stopping them. She looks over at her husband, giggles cutely, and points towards something with her eyes. Akshay follows where she indicates to and begins to chuckle. Jai and Bani continue to look confused and even glance at one another, wondering what the problem is.
Jai: What's wrong? (curiously)
Akshay: Jai. You two are standing under a mistletoe. (smiling)
Worried and panicked, Jai and Bani look up together at the ceiling and their faces pale as they see that they are indeed standing under a mistletoe. They stare at one another awkwardly.
Tanvi: Well what are you two doing just staring at one another? You two know tradition--- if a couple are standing under a mistletoe, it's a must that they kiss. (friendly smile)
Bani's cheeks turn bright red and she looks down at the floor.
Jai: (hastily) Mistletoe's are a stupid tradition. Why don't we just go along and get to the party?
Akshay: No, no, Jai Walia. You're not getting out of this one.
Tanvi: Yes, you must follow the rule. Go on and kiss your wife. It's perfectly okay.
Akshay: Come on yaar, don't be a such a Grinch.
Together Jai and Bani stare at one another and their eyes meet. Bani's heart races rapidly and Jai feels nervous himself. His eyes lower onto her pink lips and wonders what it would be like to kiss them.
Akshay: Today be would nice, Jai.
Akshay's voice interrupts into his lost thoughts. Jai snaps out of it and looks back into Bani's eyes. He watches as the blush in her cheeks deepens. Knowing very well that he can't get out of this one, Jai slowly nears close to her, reducing the space between them. Bani feels butterflies begin to roam in the pit of her stomach and a tightening in her chest. He pecks her softly on her cheek and then backs away, not taking his eyes off her as he does this. Bani burns red and switches her gaze elsewhere, not able to meet his anymore. Both Akshay and Tanvi smile delightfully at them. They don't push it further and decide that they probably will not feel comfortable in public.
Akshay: That's the spirit. Now it's okay for the two of you to come in. (chuckles)
Akshay and Tanvi rushed them in and introduced them to many guests as the Mr. and Mrs. Walia. Jai was polite and all Bani did was stand quietly by his side, smiling and saying a few words when addressed to. Tanvi wanders off joining her other girlfriends.
Jai takes a glass of champagne off from the tray of a passing by waiter and sips on it as Akshay casually talks to him.
Akshay: So how long have you two been here in Goa?
Jai: …For about three days I think.
Akshay: What brings you guys here? -- Are you two on your honeymoon? (winks)
Bani blushes scarlet red and looks up at Jai, who just smiles it off.
Jai: No. Just another business trip.
Akshay: Good idea. Goa is a lovely place! How do you like it so far, Bani?
Bani: (smiling softly, polite) It's truly beautiful here.
Akshay: (chuckling) So you're glad your husband brought you along, eh? (teasing)
Bani continues to silently turn pink in the cheeks, which makes Akshay laugh even more. Jai turns his attention else where as his wife and good friend begin to chat about the places in Goa. He takes another sip out of his drink and scans around the room with his eyes. Instantly he stops drinking and lowers his glass down as he sees something that catches his full attention.
Akshay: Make sure to check that out before you and Jai leave.
Bani was positive that Jai wasn't going to take her out anywhere, but to please Akshay, she agrees.
What the bloody hell is she doing here?, his mind races. Jai watches with careful eyes as she laughs along with her little snobby friends, whom she fits so perfectly with. She casually glances up and seems to catch his eye. He sees her smile fade and her face bear a look of surprise. She looks at him tentatively, as if to check whether it is really him or not. On recognizing him, she smiles seductively and walks away from her little group and comes towards him, swaying her hips back and forth.
Swearing under his breath and not able to believe his awful luck, Jai digs his free hand into his pant pocket and turns around back over at Bani and Akshay, who continue to talk about whatever they are discussing of. He stands stiffly to himself, expecting her arrival any moment.
"Jai Walia… is that you?", a feminine voice speaks with disbelief. Both Akshay and Bani stop midway in their conversation and look over to the woman dressed in an elegant black dress, showing off her slender body. She flicks her brown hair and smiles brightly at Jai. Curiously Bani looks over at Jai, whose jaw begins to tighten.
Roshini: Long time no see….
Bani watches them both closely, noting her husband's body behavior and the woman's teasing, mocking tone.
Akshay: (confused, light smile) Roshini… You know Jai?
Roshini now stares over at Akshay and flashes her big white teeth at him.
Roshini: Why of course! Me and Jai go waaayyyy back. Kyon, Jai?
She nudges him with her elbow and winks in his direction. Jai stands rooted in his spot, looking disgusted and annoyed.
Akshay: Wow. I had no idea you two knew each other.
Roshini: Yes… we were quite close, weren't we Jai? (in a sing song tone)
Jai just gives her a cold stare. Bani continues to look confused yet amused at the same time.
Roshini: But that was years ago… Five I think…. Anyways. (turning to Jai, smiling seductively) How are you Jai? It's been so long since we've last met. What brings you here to Goa?
Jai: (curt) Business.
Roshini: Ah, I should had known. You always were working and I guess you haven't seem to have dropped that habit yet.
Roshini continues to fix her eyes on him as she wraps her arm around his and clings to his side. Jai raises an eyebrow at this. She bats her eyelids at him as she speaks in a flirtatious voice.
Roshini: Sooo… while you're here.. Why don't you and I go out for lunch or something?--- Catch up on each other. Hm?
Slowly a grin forms onto Jai's lips and he takes his arm out of her hold. Roshini watches confused as Jai wraps his arm around the waist of the women next to him, pulling her securely against his side.
Bani stares up at her husband, surprised by this gesture of his. Her skin tingles from his touch and she can feel her cheeks turn slightly pink.
Jai: Sure… that sounds lovely… My wife and I both would enjoy going out to lunch with you…. Right, Darling?
Jai looks down at Bani and smiles charmingly at her. Bani dumbly nods with his talks, too mesmerized by his smile, touch, and the heavenly smell of his cologne.
Roshini stares from Jai, to Bani, and back to Jai, looking completely blown over by this new piece of news. She wears an expression of disbelief.
Roshini: Wife?
Jai: (looks back over to Roshini, continuing to grin) Why yes… My wife… Mrs. Bani Walia… Surely you knew, didn't you?
Roshini shakes her head quickly in a child like manner.
Jai: The press went crazy once they heard of our marriage…it was all over… television, newspapers, magazines…
Roshini: (regaining herself) I'm afraid I was in London…. I just got back a couple of weeks ago.
Akshay: (smiles) Well now you know!
Roshini looks back over at Jai and sees him smirk as he sips on his champagne, his left arm still wrapped securely around his uncomfortable, confused wife's waist. She clears her throat.
Roshini: Well… Congratulations. I'm certainly surprised, but nonetheless… very….very happy for you Jai. I hope you and Vani have a happy married life.
Jai: Bani. (quick, curt)
Roshini: Yes, yes. Bani.
Bani grows alarmed by the dirty look Roshini casts at her and already now knows that she has formed another enemy, for which she does not know why. Suddenly the DJ announces that the dance floor is open for all couples and begins to play sweet romantic songs. Roshini seems to brighten up on this and looks excitedly towards Jai. She takes a hold onto his arm, momentarily startling Jai.
Roshini: Jai, come on. Let's go dance- for old time's sake.
Jai: No thank you. I'd prefer to stay right here.
He coldly says to her. Bani feels Jai's hold on her loosen and finally release her. He digs his hand into his pocket.
Roshini: Oh don't be such a rotten sport, Jai. Come now, they're even playing our song.
Bani looks over at Roshini as she says this, her full and complete attention now on her.
Akshay: Your song?
Akshay seems to ask the question that was beginning to linger in Bani's mind. Roshini smiles sweetly at him.
Roshini: Yes, mine and Jai's. This was the song that we first danced to. Remember Jai? Our first Valentine's Day?
Jai just scowls to himself and doesn't bother replying to her. The last thing he wanted was to be reminded of bitter memories… of the past the he shared with this woman. A woman he absolutely despises.
Bani is taken aback by this. She looks from Roshini to her husband, in shock. So this woman was an ex?
Roshini: Kher… Let's go before it finishes.
Jai: (frustrated) I told you, I do not----
Akshay: Come on, Jai, go on. She's asking so politely and she really wants to dance with you. What's so wrong with one dance?
Roshini: Here, I'll even ask your wife! ---- Bani, you wouldn't mind if I stole your husband from you for a little while, would you?
Bani stares into Roshini's perky looking face and doesn't know what else to say, but to agree.
Bani: … No, I don't min----
Roshini: Perfect! See, Jai, I've even gotten your wife's permission. Now you'll come to share a dance, won't you?
Before Jai can even say a word, Roshini whisks him off towards the dance floor, hanging close to his side, and leaving Bani standing alone, looking on after them curiously. She turns around expecting to find Akshay behind her, but instead sees him somewhere else, chatting with a few guests. She finds herself completely alone with no one by her side.
Not knowing what else to do, Bani stands loitering around, looking at her husband dance with another woman. She didn't know why… but seeing another woman in his arms deeply upset her and made her feel painfully jealous.
Who am I to feel that way?…. I am no one to him….He has perfectly made that clear to me… So why should I care? He can go on and dance with his stupid little ex flames all he wants… It doesn't matter to me.
She crosses her arms against her chest and stands rooted to her spot, her eyes fixed on the two. Bani stares closely at how Jai's hand rests at Roshini's waist and how Roshini has her arms wrapped securely around his neck. Seeing a waiter pass by from the corner of her eye, Bani immediately stops him and requests for the juice on the tray. Taking it into her hand, before sipping onto it she takes out the small purple umbrella in it.
"Oh my God, is that Jai with Roshini?", she hears someone speak behind her with surprise. "…That is her… What is Jai doing dancing with her?-- Do you suppose that they're back together?", the same woman speaks. "No… not at all… Not after what she did to him. I don't think Jai will ever be able to forgive her after that. Besides, I heard that Jai is married now," another woman speaks. "Oh… what a shame. They make a nice couple and they once had loved each other a lot."
Bani catches a glimpse of the gossiping women and feels herself burn more with envy. She stares back over at Jai and Roshini dancing and goes back to drinking her juice. A few minutes go by and they continue to dance, which frustrates Bani. She deeply regretted letting Roshini take her husband away from her. Seeing that her drink is over, she requests for another from the same waiter. Bani begins to feel strange and a little woozy, but in a good way. She feels herself lighten up and relax.
************************************************************ ***********************
Jai stares into Roshini's smirking face with anger.
Jai: (bitterly) What the hell do you think you're doing--- acting like everything is dandy and perfectly alright?
Roshini: (coyly) Why… isn't it?
Jai: You perfectly damn know that it isn't. You expect that after you go run off to become a model and find yourself a charming little French guy, things between us are absolutely fine?
Roshini: Oh come on now, Jai… I would think that by now you would be over that. Considering that now you have a wife of your own.
Jai: (sneers)…. What are you even doing back here? I thought you were busy being a model in London. Did your agency finally pick up how big of a b*tch you are and kick you out?
Roshini: Ouch, how harsh of you Jai.
Jai: Indeed harsh, but completely true.
Roshini's jaw tightens but she lets his remark pass.
Roshini: I don't see why we can't be friends, Jai.
Jai: Because I do not associate with lying backstabbers.
Jai now lets go of her and takes her hands off of him. He fixes the front of his coat and peers at her hard.
Jai: Now if you will excuse me, I have better things to do then talk to a worthless person as yourself. Nice seeing you again, Roshini. (firm, short)
Jai walks off the dance floor, leaving Roshini fuming to herself. Stomping her foot, Roshini scowls and marches off from there. The DJ changes the mood over to fast songs, which pumps up a lot of people and bring them over to the floor. Jai looks back to where he had last left off Bani and Akshay but finds neither of them there. Curiously he searches around for any sign of Bani, but finds her nowhere. He grows confused. Feeling a hand on his shoulder, Jai turns around and finds Akshay smiling at him.
Akshay: Done dancing?
Jai: Yes, I am…. Have you seen Bani anywhere?
Akshay: (also looking around) Last time I checked, she was nearby the bar.
He remains confused about the whereabouts of his wife, but remains by Akshay, not entirely bothered to go looking after her. But his eyes do scan the hall time to time to see if she is anywhere around. After some time passes, a sudden sound of cheering builds among the guests, but Jai ignores it as he is too preoccupied of the wonder of where Bani can be. His eyes look over to the bar, but he doesn't see her there. Where can she be? He runs a hand through his hair.
Akshay: Jai…..
Jai: (his back faced towards him) Yes, Akshay?
Akshay: Jai… is that your wife over there?
On hearing this, Jai quickly turns around and follows to where Akshay points to. What Jai sees astonishes him and nearly causes him a heart attack. He watches as his wife dances in the midst of the people on the dance floor, swaying her hips along to the beat of the catchy music, resting a hand on one of them, and the other hand by the side of her head. She enjoyably dances to it and sings along with the lyrics.
(Bedi chalayi leh jigar se piya
Jigar maabadi aag hai) - 2
Wadaa nikari o lab se piya aah aa
Wadaa nikari o lab se piya jeh duniya badi dhank hai
Haan bedi chalayi leh jigar se piya
Jigar maabadi aag hai
Stunned, Jai looks on, not able to believe his eyes, thinking that he is hallucinating. He closes his eyes momentarily, hoping and praying that this isn't true, but as he opens them he finds her still dancing and being cheered on by many of the guests.
Akshay: Jai… I think that is Bani…. (amazed, laughing) Boy can she move!
Without waiting for another moment to pass, Jai quickly goes over to Bani's side, pushing through people in order to reach her. He hears a bunch of men whistle at her which infuriates him with anger. After he settles his wife down, he would see to them.
During the middle of her dance, Bani feels a sudden grip on her wrist and feels herself being pulled around. She finds herself face to face with a disbelieved looking Jai. Bani smiles warmly at him and rests a hand on his chest.
Bani: Mr. Walia!… (she says with a slur)
Jai: (hastily) Bani, what do you think you are doing? (demanding)
Bani: (smiling goofily) I'm dancing, silly!
Feeling a distinct smell of alcohol, Jai sniffs around and finds that it is coming from Bani. He looks at her with more shock and disbelief.
Jai: Bani, did you drink?
Bani: Yes! I had juuuuuiiccee!-- With a reallllyy cute puuurple umbella in it!
Jai: (pulling onto her hand) Where did you get it from?
Bani: …Hmmm….I got it frommmmmm------ him!
She points over at the waiter boy serving more of the same juice Bani described, with the purple umbrellas. Jai follows over into the direction and looks at the waiter. He feels anger rise in him and he has the want to beat the hell out of the waiter boy for allowing Bani a drink. As the waiter begins to walk past them, Jai grabs onto the collar of his shirt, pulling him back. Startled, the waiter looks at an enraged Jai Walia.
Jai: What the hell do you think you're doing giving away drinks without even saying what is in it?! Are you a fool?!
Waiter: (frightened) S-s-sir, I don't know what you are talking about.
Jai takes out a purple umbrella out of from one of the drinks on his tray and presents it towards the waiter, practically shoving it into his face.
Jai: These little drinks that you're passing around!--- Did you even care to tell anyone what it was?!
Bani becomes excited on seeing the delicious drinks and steps in between them, looking like a six year old who has seen ice cream.
Bani: Ooooooh! Can I have another one of these? (excitedly)
Jai pushes the waiter away with force, nearly causing him to tumble.
Jai: Get lost. (angrily)
The waiter scurries off in the other direction, scared for his life. Jai looks over at a pouting Bani.
Jai: Bani, how many did you have?
Bani: (thoughtful)… I thinkkkk….four…or even five…
Jai: Five? You've had five of those? (astonished tone)
She begins to look woozy and Jai holds tightly onto her, resting a hand on her back. She giggles.
Jai: (concerned) Come on, let's go back to the hotel.
Bani: Hmmmm….nahi….
Jai: Bani. You're coming with me.
Bani: Nahiiiii, I want to stay….
Bani pushes him away and begins to walk away, but Jai quickly stops her by holding onto her hand. He takes her by surprise as he lifts her up in his arms.
Bani: Mr. Waaliiaaa…mujhe chordo….Mr. Waaallia!
Jai ignores her protesting and proceeds to carry her, walking towards the exit of the hall. Bani draws attention with her whining as Jai carries her out of the hotel, passing through the front lobby. He places her in the backseat of the car and shuts the door after her…..
************************************************************ ********
"Bedi chalayi leh….jigar se piya…..wadaa nikari o lab se piya aah aa…..", Bani sings drunkenly as she lays almost unconsciously in Jai's arms. "Wadaa nikari o lab se piya….jeh duniya badi dhank hai……". Jai looks down at his drunk wife, her arms dangling and her head bent back, eyes closed. He shakes his head at her and continues to look ahead of him, walking down the hall. He finally approaches their room and struggles with getting the keys out.
Pushing the door open, Jai walks in and is careful with not banging Bani's sinking head against any of the walls. He gently places her on their king size bed and pulls the covers over her.
Bani: Hmmmmm…..
Bani lets out a pleased sound as she feels soft pillows under her head and a warm comforter over her. Jai lets out a sigh and sees that her eyes are still closed, but now she has become quiet. Thinking that she is drifting off to sleep, he makes an attempt to get off the bed, but is stopped as he feels a haste grip on his hand. He turns and looks down at Bani, who now peers at him with worried looking eyes.
Bani: (cutely) Mr. Walia… where are yooou going?
Jai: (startled) ….Nowhere… I-I'm… I'm not going anywhere, Bani.
Jai feels her fingers slide into his and stares down at their joined hands, resting on top of her chest.
Bani: Hmmmm…..
He looks over to her, not knowing what to say or react. A long period of silence passes by them… Jai had thought she was sleeping, but he was proved wrong once she spoke in a watery voice.
Bani: I'm so sorry, Mr. Walia…
Jai: ….(confused) For what?
Bani: For the both of us…..
Jai raises an eyebrow at this. He feels her tighten her hold on his hand.
Bani: ….(sleepily) Humari dono pyaar….humko mile nahi hai….
Jai stares at her, his full attention now on her. He doesn't say anything… finding himself speechless. He peers at her closely….he watches her lips move once again as she speaks.
Bani:… Pia neh aapko chordke chaalege…Pushkar neh bhi mujhe chordke chaalagaya. ….Pia ke liye….
Jai looks at Bani, thunderstruck. Her words seem to echo throughout his ears…. Her words that are equivalent to a stinging slap. He watches her now with a hollow expression…. A tear escapes from Bani's left eye.
Bani: ….Abh aap please mujhe chordke maat jaaye….maat jaaye… (she whispers)
Jai continues to stare at her face, absolutely floored and aghast by what he has just learned. Moments later he feels Bani loosen her grip on his hand….. Minutes fly by with Jai sitting besides a now sleeping Bani on the bed, his hand still entwined with hers, trying to comprehend it all… feeling cold and numb.
Bani had loved him…….Bani had loved Pushkar…..
Slowly he releases his hand from hers……takes a good long look at her sleeping peacefully…sits up from the bed….and walks over to the front door of their room. Pulling out his car keys from his pocket, Jai opens the door and steps out into the hallway….
***********************************************************
Part 14:
Squinting her eyes, Bani reaches a hand to her forehead and touches it lightly, pained by the major headache she's experiencing at the moment. Slowly opening her swollen eyes, Bani looks around in a confused daze, taking the surroundings of the hotel room in. Feeling suffocated by being tightly wrapped by the comforter, she throws it off of her, giving her space and room to breathe. Tiredly Bani sits up in bed, stretches her arms out as she lets out a soft yawn. She winces by the throbbing in her head and groans. Bani perks and curiously looks up as she hears the opening of a door.
Jai comes walking out from the bathroom with a towel in his hand, drying his wet hair from his hot shower. He throws the towel over at a chair nearby and looks ahead of him.
Despite her troubling headache and unwell state, Bani blushes by how her husband stares at her and she becomes very aware of herself. She reaches for the covers and slowly pulls it up to her chest, trying to be casual about it. This is when she realizes that she is still wearing her saree from last night's party and hasn't removed any of her jewelry.
Jai: You had fallen asleep as soon as I had brought you back here, which is why you're still in the clothes you were wearing at last night's party.
Jai informs as he sees a confused expression build on her tired face. He watches her make an attempt to fix her messy and out of place hair, to make herself a little presentable. She also drapes her dress over her shoulder which was slipping moments before. Her cheeks burn with embarrassment
Bani: (softly, puzzled) You brought…me back?
Jai sees her confusion grow and clearly knows that she doesn't remember anything from last night. Bani sees him dig a hand into his pant pocket and stare at her with the same expression he has always looked at her so far on their "honeymoon"…. which held no emotion.
Jai: (didactic tone) You had unknowingly consumed a couple of alcoholic drinks at the party, therefore, I had to bring you back to our room.
Bani's eyes widen at this and she stares at Jai with disbelief. She? And Alcohol? How could she drink alcohol unknowingly? When did she even--------- It all comes rushing back to her. The introduction of her husband's ex flame, Roshini. Roshini persuading him for a dance and taking him away from her, leaving Bani all by herself. The closeness and touching business going on between her husband and his ex. Then her drinking a drink that looked like juice with a cute small purple umbrella in it. But after that everything else is a blur.
Bani sheepishly looks over at Jai and gives him an apologetic looking expression, truly feeling sorry for what she had done and causing him to leave his good friend's party like that.
Bani: Mr. Walia….I-I am so sorry--- very sorry. I… I didn't know that the juice wasn't juice after all. Please forgive me. (sincerely)
Jai just stares at her with the same blank expression and brushes off her apology. He turns away from her and faces instead the walk in closet behind him, containing all the clothes he had brought along with him for his trip. He casually glances back at her.
Jai: Our flight is in three hours. Quickly get ready and pack your things. If we have time, we'll try and squeeze in a quick breakfast…………………
************************************************************ ********
Throughout their flight not a single word was exchanged between them. Jai preoccupied himself by the magazines that were provided to them just as he had last time and Bani just sat silently to herself, keeping alert of any upcoming turbulences. This time Bani didn't even dare to get up and go to the washroom, to afraid of repeating another lap episode. She didn't think she'd be able to bare another embarrassing incident.
Jai was exhausted from the lack of sleep he had last night. After hearing what he had discovered from Bani, which literally shook him up, Jai had taken his keys and went on a long drive, really needing one to clear his head. He arrived back at the hotel at three in the morning and didn't go to sleep until six in the morning. He had also slept on the couch which was very uncomfortable.
The flight was miserably long due to the thick silence but thankfully it has come to an end. They board off the plane and are greeted by a waving Raashi, Jai's personal assistant. She warmly welcomes them back and goes along with them to retrieve their luggage. Raashi stayed walking by Jai's side, filling him in on the happenings of the office while he was gone and telling him of his schedule for the day and the upcoming days. She would occasionally though give Bani friendly side glances, which had Bani smiling a little too.
Raashi: Oh sir, let me! (politely)
Raashi says enthusiastically as Jai makes a motion to push the trolley, which contains their now retrieved suitcases. He obliges and moves out of the way for her. Raashi pushes the trolley and stays behind with Bani this time as Jai walks on ahead in search of their ride. He pulls on his sunglasses as he comes outside of the airport and into the sunny atmosphere. Raashi and Bani come on outside a minute later than he.
Raashi: Sir, your ride is right over here.
Raashi indicates towards the left and points out the waiting black Mercedes. She leads him and Bani over towards it and motions for the driver to get out and open the trunk.
Jai: Raashi, you go on and sit in the car. I've got it.
Jai tells her as she walks over to the trolley to take the suitcases. She nods and smiles one last smile over at Bani's direction before getting herself into the car, the driver opening the door for her. Jai grabs his suitcase and places it into the trunk. He closes it and stares over at Bani's direction.
Bani looks back at him, wearing a puzzled expression. She looks down at her luggage that are still on the trolley. Jai follows her gaze.
Jai: I have some work that needs to be taken care of at the office, so I will be going straight to there. You will go on home--- in the other car.
He directs over to the other awaiting car behind the black Mercedes. Bani looks over and sees the other driver get out and wait besides the car for her. She nods her head, showing him that she understands. Just as she bends down to pick up her luggage, she feels Jai's hand also wrap around the strap. The both look up at one another at the same time. Bani feels her heart race from their hand contact.
Jai indicates to her that he's got it with a blink of his eyes and slowly Bani let's go, moving out of the way. She watches Jai haul up the suitcase and place it into the open trunk, which the driver had opened quickly. He shuts it and walks on over to the back car door and opens it. He holds it and signals for Bani to get in. Bani, slightly startled by this, walks over to him and seats herself in.
Jai: I'll see you at home.
Jai tells her before shutting the car door. Bani feels her body tingle by his words. This was the first time he was referring the Mansion as her home too. She watches with a silent daze as he walks away and gets into his own car..........
************************************************************ ******
In a haste she grips tight onto her husband's arm, stopping him in his tracks and causing him to look over at her curiously. Her husband grows worried as he sees that her face has suddenly become pale and the smile that lingered on her lips before has now vanished. He feels her grip on his arm tighten and he covers her hand with his own. "What's wrong, sweetheart?", he soothingly asks her.
"P-P-Pushkar....Mr. Walia--- and Di", she stutters with fear. Pushkar stares at his wife, shocked, and quickly follows her gaze over in front of them. His heart literally skips a beat out of fear as he sees the man who was like his mentor, his father, and brother stand before them with his shades over his eyes and thrusting a suitcase up into the trunk of a car. He reacts quickly by taking Pia's hand and dragging her behind a column nearby.
Pia's eyes already start tearing as she spots her elder sister standing by the car, looking absolutely beautiful in a stunning teal saree and her matching jewelry, looking exactly how she should be looking.... like Jai Walia's wife. She watches her sister close as she walks towards the car....and to Jai Walia, who holds the back car door for her, gesturing to her to get in. As Pia looks back over to him, fear grips tightly on her heart. His image was such... Jai Walia's appearance would intimidate anyone.
Both newly weds watch Jai Walia shut the door and walk towards the car in front. Momentarily their fear increases as he casually glances to his side, almost catching sight of them if they hadn't quickly hid behind the column again, as he walks to the back of the car. He opens the door and seats himself in. In seconds, both Walia cars zoom out of sight...... Tears flow from Pia's eyes and Pushkar lays a comforting hand on her back. Seeing her sister after so long....after close to two months of hiding....made Pia extremely emotional. The past many weeks, Pia yearned for her sisters, especially for her Bani Di, who was more of a mother to her- and she desperately needed a mother to comfort her through her bad times.
Pushkar: Come on, Pia... Let's go.
************************************************************ ******************************************
Jai tried to wrap himself into his work, but his focus seemed to be somewhere else. Very often he would slip into his own thoughts and not pay any attention whatsoever to the work that has to be done. He couldn't seem to forget the huge burden hanging in his chest...disturbing him terribly. A knock on his door startles him and brings him back to reality. He shortly replies to come in. Jai sees one of his employees, Ranveer Sharma, hesitantly enter his cabin. Ranveer shakes before his presence, probably remembering the talk they had over a couple of weeks ago. But right now, Jai could care less about who he was and what he had done that angered him so much. Right now... Jai didn't care about anything.
Ranveer: (quivering voice) Mr. W-Walia....
Jai: (curt) What is it?
Ranveer: Siiirr, --- it's, um, it's just that... you-you (breathes in, says all in a rush) have been ignoring the Mount Abu project for the past week and a half and it is necessary that this file gets your signatures for the construction of the casino to begin. --- S-so if you will please....
Ranveer approaches his desk and politely hands over the file. Jai stares at the file in Ranveer's outstretched hand with a daze. Old memories quickly flood his mind..... of his unexpected betrayal....and of his unwanted marriage with Bani Dixit. He had started this project to cause pain to the people who had betrayed him and caused him grief.
Ranveer: (scared, curiously) Sir?
Jai snaps out of his thinking and stares up at Ranveer's frightened face. No longer in a dilemna and knowing exactly what his decision is, Jai stares back at Ranveer's extending hand and takes the file from him........
************************************************************ ***************************************
Bani was welcomed with open arms by everyone, except for Jigyasa who just sneered at her and walked away. Mausi immediately sat her down and everyone crowded around her, Rano, Dadi, Saahil, and Anu, wearing bright smiles on their faces. Mausi continuously questioned how their honeymoon went and what they had done. Bani quietly just answered her questions, not liking the attention she was getting. Mausi teasingly spoke to Dadi.
Mausi: Look, Beji--- look how our Bani's face is glowing!
Despite knowing that nothing at all had happened that would cause her face to glow, Bani's cheeks still turn red. She wanted to badly correct Mausi, but found herself speechless, not knowing what to say to her remark.
Dadi: Yes, you are right, Billo. Her face is glowing. (pleased)
Mausi: I knew it was the right thing to send her along with Munna. The boy has been so wrapped up with the office that he barely has time for her. ---- I am glad to know that you both have enjoyed yourself.
Mausi says back to Bani, smiling wonderfully in her direction. All Bani does is bow her head and continue to blush pink. Everyone giggles at this, and even Rano can't help but smile.
Anu: So Mami--- did you bring back any gifts?
Bani: (smiling) Yes, I did. I knew you would be expecting something for yourself.
Anu cheekily smiles at her mamiji. Saahil steps in the way and looks also eagerly at her.
Saahil: And me? --- You couldn't possibly forget about me, right?
Bani: (smiling even more) Of course not, I have even brought you something.
Bani takes her sisters hand and smiles affectionately at her.
Bani: For Rano too...(looking back over at Saahil) I have brought back something for everyone.
Anu: (excited) Oh, Mami! What is it?! Can we see our gifts now?
Mausi: Arre, Anu, be patient beta. Your mamiji has just come back and you are already hassling her for your gifts.
Anu: Oops, sorry Mami. It' s okay, I can wait.
Bani: Mausi, I will just unpack now-- (over to Saahil and Anu) You may come along if you want to see your gifts.
Rano follows after her sister to help her unpack and both twins, Saahil and Anu, race after them to see what they have gotten from Goa.....
************************************************************ *************************************************
Aditya opens his cabin and paces down the hallway towards his destination.... He couldn't seem to believe it... It was all just so unbelievable. He refused to believe it from someone else... He had to know for sure from the man himself. Aditya arrives at the door and knocks hard onto it. He hears him tell him to come in and he doesn't hesitate for a second, walking on into Jai Walia's cabin. He closes the door behind himself.
Jai looks away from the window and over at his friend staring at him with an annoyed expression. He completely turns around and faces him. He grows puzzled as to why Aditya is here in his cabin. From what he remembered, they were not on speaking terms.
Jai: Aditya...
Aditya walks on forward and stops just before his desk. He doesn't break their eye contact and continues to look at him with piercing eyes. He finally speaks after a long moment of silence.
Aditya: What are you getting at, Jai?
Jai proceeds to stare at Aditya, not knowing what he meant by that. He stares on confused.
Jai: What do you mean?
Aditya: (his voice rising) I mean, what the hell do you think you're getting at if you just suddenly called off the Mount Abu project?
Realization dawns upon Jai and he grows quiet. He looks the other way.
Aditya: Wasn't building the casino your dream??? Wasn't it your goal to destroy Bani's home? You were looking so forward to this project, but out of the bloom you just call it off? --- What the hell are you up to now?! (accusing, questions)
Aditya watches Jai remain quiet and continue to avoid eye contact with him. He walks towards closer to him, approaching him.
Aditya: You are cooking up another plan--- I know it! Otherwise, there is no legit reason why you declined the project. .....What is it that you're doing this time, Jai Walia?
Jai is still silent for a few moments. He stares over back at Aditya with a regretful look and rests a hand on his black chair.
Jai: Do you remember Aditya....the last time you had came into this cabin....
Aditya proceeds to stare at Jai, fuming inside. He watches him closely with his eyes.
Jai: ....You had said that the truth is that I do not know anything and that I assume too much. --- You had also said that I should for once stop acting as if I knew everything that was going on around.
Aditya's anger begins to cool as he listens to his words, getting lost in them and not understanding the sudden topic.
Jai: Bani loved Pushkar..... that was what I didn't know..... wasn't it?
Jai watches as Aditya looks shocked and speechless. He softly smiles at his friend.
Jai: The look on your face clearly tells me that I am right...Bani did love Pushkar...and probably still does....
Aditya remains speechless, not knowing what to say, not able to find his voice.
Jai: You were right.... Bani had done nothing to hurt me... she took no part in Pia and Pushkar's betrayal towards me... in fact, she was equally hurt as I was. ...Still is.... She took my rude behavior towards her like a punching bag....She let me take out my anger on her....Never...Never did she defend herself from me.....(looking up) I'm not a good person, Aditya....I hurt a wonderful person like Bani who always respected me. ...What have I done, Aditya?
Aditya stares on at Jai, not able to believe or digest down the fact that Jai Walia is actually regretting something that he had done for the first time ever. He has finally realized his mistake. He looks Jai straight in the eye and sees how truly sorry he is, sees the sincerity in them. Aditya's anger completely vanishes.
Jai: I was -- I was so caught up with my hate for Pia and Pushkar that I just took out all my anger on Bani, who was innocent the whole time.
Aditya: (amazed) Jai... are you honestly regretting everything you did to Bani? Do you really realize your mistake?
Jai stares over at his friend and lays a hand on his shoulder.
Jai: I do, Aditya. ...It took me a very long time...but I finally can see my faults...and the truth. (looking away, dejected) I just can't believe that I behaved so...cruelly towards her. ... How will I ever be able to ask for forgiveness?
Aditya is so overwhelmed with happiness that he smiles warmly at Jai. He then rests a hand on his shoulder.
Aditya: The fact that you've realized what the truth is will be enough for her. --- But even then, you should apologize.
I owe more than just an apology, he softly says to himself. ***************************************
part 15:
Jai runs his fingers through his thick hair and continues to step further onto the accelerator, increasing his speed as he lays his back firmly against the car seat, driving his vehicle absentmindedly, lost in a world of his own. All that seemed to linger on his mind is of her troubled looking face, making him feel nothing but guilt and shame for himself.
His mind wanders back to his marriage to his wife and all the unforgivably harsh actions he had committed towards her ….. such as throwing her out of his room like if she were trash, insulting and accusing her character, taunting her every chance he had gotten, deliberately refusing to divorce her-- taking an advantage of their marriage to his gain of revenge....viciously attacking her with his bile like words... threatening to rip her away from her childhood home...and his most unforgivable act--- inflicting so much pain on her.
"Please Mr. Walia, listen to me", Bani had pleaded and begged to him countless of times, cried openly in front of him every time, and took his hurtful inflicting actions like a punching bag….
"Mr. Walia, please...I beg of you....".
"Please, Mr. Walia!",
"Aap aise maat karo...".
"Nahi...",
"Please!"
"Please...aise nahi hai---"
"Mr. Walia, please!"
"Please, meri baut to sunno, Mr. Walia!"
Bani's cries overwhelm him instantly and Jai begins to feel sick to his stomach. He grips tightly onto the steering wheel and his jaw tightens. As he sees that he has arrived at his desired destination, Jai hastily steps on the brakes and parks the car on the temporarily abandoned area. Slamming his door shut, he leans against his car and looks over at the setting sun, hiding slowly into the gleaming blue water. Seagulls call out around him, flying up in the air, and swiftly passing by, but it's all just a faint echo to his ears and numbed self.
"I am sorry Mr. Walia....Humari dono pyaar humko mile nahi hai...Pia neh aapko chordke chaalege...Pushkar neh bhi mujhe chordke chaalagaye..." (trans: We didn't get both of our loves...Pia had left you...Pushkar also had left me and has gone...."
After a long while of absorbing himself in her words, a small sad smile twitches on his lips, and he lets out a sneer. Digging his hands deep into his pockets, Jai breathes out dejectedly. "You're right, Bani... we didn't get the people whom we desired for the most... we both have gone through the same feeling of rejection... the same feeling of deception... and the same feeling of hurt... I am just regretful that I hadn't recognized your innocence from before...If there is anyone who should be apologizing then it's me... I am sorry.... so sorry, Bani."
************************************************************ ************************
Bani angrily brushes off her running tears and shuts her door behind her. She stares down at the neatly wrapped present in her hands and tears once again begin to well in her eyes. She had gotten Anu a special set of earrings--- earrings that she had heard Anu wish for a very long time. Spotting them at Goa as she went shopping for pass time, Bani had quickly boughten them with a smile, knowing that Anu would simply love them. She gave the present to Anu eagerly, wanting to see her reaction, except she never got to because her sister-in-law seemed to have come out of nowhere, knocking the present out of Anu's hands-- telling her daughter not to accept gifts from filthy low classed people. In a second Jigyasa Walia clearly stated that no sort of relationship exists between Anu and Bani, not even as sisters, like how Bani always thought of her as. With a warning look, she told her, "Stay away from my daughter you shameless woman". Tears began to well in Anu's eyes as she helplessly saw her (Bani) be bashed by her mother. Gripping tightly onto her daughter's wrist, Jigyasa Walia dragged her Anu along with her, taking her far away from Bani, leaving her by herself with tears streaming down her face.
Bani drops the present onto the desk nearby and lays gingerly down onto the mattress, silently weeping into her pillow, wounded deeply by the vicious woman's words and attack on her character. A couple minutes go by into her crying as she feels an unexpected sharp pain hit her in her lower abdomen. With quick instinct, she clutches onto her stomach tight........
************************************************************ *****************************************
As soon as Jai arrived at the mansion in the late evening, he didn't see Bani's presence anywhere. She wasn't around the front of the mansion or in the kitchen like how she usually was every time he came back from work. Finding this odd, Jai walks further into the house and towards the dining room, where every Walia member, including Rano, sat at the table with plates filled of food in front of them. However, he notices an empty seat, Bani's usual chair.
Mausi: Munna, you're here. Come. Have Dinner.
Jai: (curiously) ....Mausi, where is Bani?
Mausi: (sadly smiles) Bechari...woh tumare kaamre mein hai...(trans: She is in your room...) Rano was saying that she isn't feeling so well nor doesn't feel like eating.
Jai casts his gaze over to Rano who silently looks down at her plate with a solemn look, picking around her food, not having eaten any of it so far. He feels someone tug on his briefcase and looks over to his left to find Tony smile politely at him. Jai releases his hand off of it, letting his butler take it along with his coat away.
Jai: Mausi...I will go on and check on her.
************************************************************ ***************
As he walks closer and closer towards their bedroom, Jai feels the guilt inside of him increase more and more with each step he takes. Guilt for everything he had done towards Bani. Possibly now when he sees her, he can ask her for forgiveness for being an incredible blind fool and cruel man. If necessary, he is even willing to beg her on bended knees-- anything to achieve her pardon.
Opening the door quietly, Jai pokes his head through the small crack and looks around the room in search for Bani. He sees her laying on the bed, her back resting against the headboard, her arms clutching tight around her stomach, eyes closed, and her lips shaking. Curiously he opens the door all the way open and makes his way over to her without a second hesitation, wondering what is wrong with her.
Feeling the left side of the bed sink down, Bani opens her eyes quickly and her heart skips a beat as she sees her husband staring at her so closely. The tears fall out from her eyes and she wipes them away with the back of her hand. Nervously she looks away from him, avoiding his gaze--- not wishing for him to see the tears in her eyes.
Bani: Mr-Mr. Walia, aph yahan kya khar rahi ho? (trans: Mr-Mr. Walia, what are you doing here?)
Jai continues to look into Bani's tear filled eyes and pale face---feeling something inside of him sink down. How many times has he seen Bani cry?....Shamely, too many...yet today, he finally understands her tears.... her agony....her suffering... and it is all because of him. He brought tears to her eyes numerous of times-- and to think it brought him joy once. As Aditya had said before... he truly is a sick b*st*rd.
Jai: You are not downstairs for dinner...Why?
Bani switches her gaze at the bedsheets. .
Bani: Ji...woh--- mujhe bhook nahi laagari...(stealthily wipes another tear)
Jai: (calmly, gently) You can't starve yourself just because you don't feel like eating...
Bani looks back over to Jai confused. She doesn't understand what's happening. What is wrong with Mr. Walia? Why is he here? Why is he behaving so....civil? She doesn't ponder about this too much because her recent pain distracts her.....She clutches harder onto her stomach and squints her eyes. Jai sees this and places a hand on her shoulder.
Jai: (worry in his tone) Bani, what's wrong?
Bani: (her voice watery) Ji, kuch nahi.....
Jai: (clearly sensing her pain) You're lying....something is wrong. Tell me. Are you in pain?
Bani opens her eyes and looks back into his eyes. What she sees in them surprises her but relieves her nonetheless. Concern....worry....care...that is what's in his eyes. Not anger....hate...and revenge like they usually held. Her eyes water and she tries her best to hold back the tears by biting tightly onto her lip.
Jai: Bani...what is it? Tell me.
Bani: (breathes out) Mr. Walia....
Her cheeks flush as he asks her impatiently, "Bani, just tell me what's wrong-- please". How can she tell him? Tell him about what kind of pain she's experiencing... a pain that most women go through each month... It would be so embarrassing. ...Out of all the days of the month this had to happen today.......
Bani: I can't....(cries, cheeks turning pink)
Jai: (impatient, still very worried) Why the bloody not?
Bani: Mr. Walia, please.....(begs)
Jai shuts his mouth. He needs to be patient with Bani...it's the least he can do for her. But it is worrying him that she is in some type of physical pain which she isn't telling him about. How come?
Bani: You don't have to worry....I'll be fine....Just please send Rano....
He becomes frustrated by this. Jai, her husband, is right here for her, willing to be with her, wanting to know what's wrong with her, and she wants her sister rather than him?
Jai: (without even thinking, blurts out)Bani, I am your damn husband-- not Rano. I am here for you. Tell me what is wrong.
Bani: ....It's....(flushes) It's normal...I just need Rano. She'll know what to do.
Jai: Being in pain is normal for you? (disbelief) Bani--- why don't you just tell me exactly what's wron-----
His voice trails off as it finally hits him. ....Bani was going through cramps from her menstrual cycle. Of course. He should had known. Jai had seen Jigyasa go through it many times. He hides a smile and his laughter. She was too embarrassed to tell him a simple thing like cramps?
Jai: Bani, ...are you on your period?
Jai watches her cheeks turn dark red and he lightly chuckles, but stops as he sees Bani begin to burst into tears once again.
Jai: Shit... I didn't mean to laugh. Bani, I know you're in a lot of pain right now.. You wait here, I'll just get Tony and have him-----
Jai feels Bani grab onto his arm and pull quickly on it. She shakes her head at him.
Bani: Nahi....please...Tony ko maat---- I don't want to draw attention....
Jai: ....Alright....then I will go myself and get you some medicine that I think can help....
Jai gets up from the bed, ready to leave, but on hearing Bani whimper from pain, he sits back down by her side and takes her hand in his.
Jai: Bani---
Bani: Mr. Walia, it hurts....(admitting)
Bani continues to cry. Jai is momentarily stunned when he feels Bani's head rest against his shoulder. She cries into him and drenches his shirt, but Jai doesn't seem to care. On instinct, Jai enlopes her into a secure embrace and rubs her back soothingly.
Jai: It-it'll be okay, Bani.... it won't last long.
Bani: (sniffs) It hurts too much though.....
Jai squeezes her closer against him, surprisingly liking the way she fits so perfectly against him and in his arms. But most importantly, wanting to comfort her as much as he can.
Jai: It'll be fine...You'll be fine... -I'll take care of you....(gently adds)
Bani closes her eyes and mutely remains in his arms, only letting out small cries and sniffling. The fact that she's tightly clinging onto Jai doesn't seem to cross her mind, as she's too preoccupied with her painful cramps. A minute later both Jai and Bani hear the bedroom door open and look up to see Tony standing at the doorway.
Tony: Oh---- Jai sir, aph yahan hai....(trans: Oh, Sir you are here.)
Bani blinks and then stares back over at Jai, finally realizing their unbelievable close proximity, and feeling completely embarrassed. She makes an attempt to break away from Jai's hold, but Jai's secure wrapped arms refuse to release her.
Jai: Hain, kaho Tony. Kya hai?
Tony: Sir, there is a call for you, I was ju-----
Jai: Let the caller know that I am currently busy. Bani isn't feeling well....I want you to bring me any medication we have- Advil, Tylenol... and a glass of water quickly. A heating pad would be great and later on bring some tea.
Jai knew Tony would understand. He also went through Jigyasa's cramps many times. He watches him nod his head and scatter off from the room in a rush. Trying to forget her discomfort and embarrassment, she asks innocently, "Mr. Walia...why have you sent Tony to bring tea and a heating pad ?". He smiles sweetly at her.
Jai: Trust me.....
***********************************
************************************************************ ************************
Bani angrily brushes off her running tears and shuts her door behind her. She stares down at the neatly wrapped present in her hands and tears once again begin to well in her eyes. She had gotten Anu a special set of earrings--- earrings that she had heard Anu wish for a very long time. Spotting them at Goa as she went shopping for pass time, Bani had quickly boughten them with a smile, knowing that Anu would simply love them. She gave the present to Anu eagerly, wanting to see her reaction, except she never got to because her sister-in-law seemed to have come out of nowhere, knocking the present out of Anu's hands-- telling her daughter not to accept gifts from filthy low classed people. In a second Jigyasa Walia clearly stated that no sort of relationship exists between Anu and Bani, not even as sisters, like how Bani always thought of her as. With a warning look, she told her, "Stay away from my daughter you shameless woman". Tears began to well in Anu's eyes as she helplessly saw her (Bani) be bashed by her mother. Gripping tightly onto her daughter's wrist, Jigyasa Walia dragged her Anu along with her, taking her far away from Bani, leaving her by herself with tears streaming down her face.
Bani drops the present onto the desk nearby and lays gingerly down onto the mattress, silently weeping into her pillow, wounded deeply by the vicious woman's words and attack on her character. A couple minutes go by into her crying as she feels an unexpected sharp pain hit her in her lower abdomen. With quick instinct, she clutches onto her stomach tight........
************************************************************ *****************************************
As soon as Jai arrived at the mansion in the late evening, he didn't see Bani's presence anywhere. She wasn't around the front of the mansion or in the kitchen like how she usually was every time he came back from work. Finding this odd, Jai walks further into the house and towards the dining room, where every Walia member, including Rano, sat at the table with plates filled of food in front of them. However, he notices an empty seat, Bani's usual chair.
Mausi: Munna, you're here. Come. Have Dinner.
Jai: (curiously) ....Mausi, where is Bani?
Mausi: (sadly smiles) Bechari...woh tumare kaamre mein hai...(trans: She is in your room...) Rano was saying that she isn't feeling so well nor doesn't feel like eating.
Jai casts his gaze over to Rano who silently looks down at her plate with a solemn look, picking around her food, not having eaten any of it so far. He feels someone tug on his briefcase and looks over to his left to find Tony smile politely at him. Jai releases his hand off of it, letting his butler take it along with his coat away.
Jai: Mausi...I will go on and check on her.
************************************************************ ***************
As he walks closer and closer towards their bedroom, Jai feels the guilt inside of him increase more and more with each step he takes. Guilt for everything he had done towards Bani. Possibly now when he sees her, he can ask her for forgiveness for being an incredible blind fool and cruel man. If necessary, he is even willing to beg her on bended knees-- anything to achieve her pardon.
Opening the door quietly, Jai pokes his head through the small crack and looks around the room in search for Bani. He sees her laying on the bed, her back resting against the headboard, her arms clutching tight around her stomach, eyes closed, and her lips shaking. Curiously he opens the door all the way open and makes his way over to her without a second hesitation, wondering what is wrong with her.
Feeling the left side of the bed sink down, Bani opens her eyes quickly and her heart skips a beat as she sees her husband staring at her so closely. The tears fall out from her eyes and she wipes them away with the back of her hand. Nervously she looks away from him, avoiding his gaze--- not wishing for him to see the tears in her eyes.
Bani: Mr-Mr. Walia, aph yahan kya khar rahi ho? (trans: Mr-Mr. Walia, what are you doing here?)
Jai continues to look into Bani's tear filled eyes and pale face---feeling something inside of him sink down. How many times has he seen Bani cry?....Shamely, too many...yet today, he finally understands her tears.... her agony....her suffering... and it is all because of him. He brought tears to her eyes numerous of times-- and to think it brought him joy once. As Aditya had said before... he truly is a sick b*st*rd.
Jai: You are not downstairs for dinner...Why?
Bani switches her gaze at the bedsheets. .
Bani: Ji...woh--- mujhe bhook nahi laagari...(stealthily wipes another tear)
Jai: (calmly, gently) You can't starve yourself just because you don't feel like eating...
Bani looks back over to Jai confused. She doesn't understand what's happening. What is wrong with Mr. Walia? Why is he here? Why is he behaving so....civil? She doesn't ponder about this too much because her recent pain distracts her.....She clutches harder onto her stomach and squints her eyes. Jai sees this and places a hand on her shoulder.
Jai: (worry in his tone) Bani, what's wrong?
Bani: (her voice watery) Ji, kuch nahi.....
Jai: (clearly sensing her pain) You're lying....something is wrong. Tell me. Are you in pain?
Bani opens her eyes and looks back into his eyes. What she sees in them surprises her but relieves her nonetheless. Concern....worry....care...that is what's in his eyes. Not anger....hate...and revenge like they usually held. Her eyes water and she tries her best to hold back the tears by biting tightly onto her lip.
Jai: Bani...what is it? Tell me.
Bani: (breathes out) Mr. Walia....
Her cheeks flush as he asks her impatiently, "Bani, just tell me what's wrong-- please". How can she tell him? Tell him about what kind of pain she's experiencing... a pain that most women go through each month... It would be so embarrassing. ...Out of all the days of the month this had to happen today.......
Bani: I can't....(cries, cheeks turning pink)
Jai: (impatient, still very worried) Why the bloody not?
Bani: Mr. Walia, please.....(begs)
Jai shuts his mouth. He needs to be patient with Bani...it's the least he can do for her. But it is worrying him that she is in some type of physical pain which she isn't telling him about. How come?
Bani: You don't have to worry....I'll be fine....Just please send Rano....
He becomes frustrated by this. Jai, her husband, is right here for her, willing to be with her, wanting to know what's wrong with her, and she wants her sister rather than him?
Jai: (without even thinking, blurts out)Bani, I am your damn husband-- not Rano. I am here for you. Tell me what is wrong.
Bani: ....It's....(flushes) It's normal...I just need Rano. She'll know what to do.
Jai: Being in pain is normal for you? (disbelief) Bani--- why don't you just tell me exactly what's wron-----
His voice trails off as it finally hits him. ....Bani was going through cramps from her menstrual cycle. Of course. He should had known. Jai had seen Jigyasa go through it many times. He hides a smile and his laughter. She was too embarrassed to tell him a simple thing like cramps?
Jai: Bani, ...are you on your period?
Jai watches her cheeks turn dark red and he lightly chuckles, but stops as he sees Bani begin to burst into tears once again.
Jai: Shit... I didn't mean to laugh. Bani, I know you're in a lot of pain right now.. You wait here, I'll just get Tony and have him-----
Jai feels Bani grab onto his arm and pull quickly on it. She shakes her head at him.
Bani: Nahi....please...Tony ko maat---- I don't want to draw attention....
Jai: ....Alright....then I will go myself and get you some medicine that I think can help....
Jai gets up from the bed, ready to leave, but on hearing Bani whimper from pain, he sits back down by her side and takes her hand in his.
Jai: Bani---
Bani: Mr. Walia, it hurts....(admitting)
Bani continues to cry. Jai is momentarily stunned when he feels Bani's head rest against his shoulder. She cries into him and drenches his shirt, but Jai doesn't seem to care. On instinct, Jai enlopes her into a secure embrace and rubs her back soothingly.
Jai: It-it'll be okay, Bani.... it won't last long.
Bani: (sniffs) It hurts too much though.....
Jai squeezes her closer against him, surprisingly liking the way she fits so perfectly against him and in his arms. But most importantly, wanting to comfort her as much as he can.
Jai: It'll be fine...You'll be fine... -I'll take care of you....(gently adds)
Bani closes her eyes and mutely remains in his arms, only letting out small cries and sniffling. The fact that she's tightly clinging onto Jai doesn't seem to cross her mind, as she's too preoccupied with her painful cramps. A minute later both Jai and Bani hear the bedroom door open and look up to see Tony standing at the doorway.
Tony: Oh---- Jai sir, aph yahan hai....(trans: Oh, Sir you are here.)
Bani blinks and then stares back over at Jai, finally realizing their unbelievable close proximity, and feeling completely embarrassed. She makes an attempt to break away from Jai's hold, but Jai's secure wrapped arms refuse to release her.
Jai: Hain, kaho Tony. Kya hai?
Tony: Sir, there is a call for you, I was ju-----
Jai: Let the caller know that I am currently busy. Bani isn't feeling well....I want you to bring me any medication we have- Advil, Tylenol... and a glass of water quickly. A heating pad would be great and later on bring some tea.
Jai knew Tony would understand. He also went through Jigyasa's cramps many times. He watches him nod his head and scatter off from the room in a rush. Trying to forget her discomfort and embarrassment, she asks innocently, "Mr. Walia...why have you sent Tony to bring tea and a heating pad ?". He smiles sweetly at her.
Jai: Trust me.....
***********************************
Rano peeps into the room to check up on her sister and sees something that startles her....Jai Walia laying on the bed, his back against the headboard, and with Bani laying nearly on top of him, her head resting on his chest....sleeping peacefully with his arms around her. She watches Jai remove a strand of hair away from Bani's face and tuck it carefully behind her ear.....she also notes the care in his eyes as he does this....
Rano smiles faintly at him. She couldn't thank him enough for looking after her Bani Didi with so much care. Rano had loathed Jai Walia the past month and half due to his horrible wicked behavior with her sister....but seeing him today with her...and after he had saved her from that breaking chandlier... she couldn't possibly hate him anymore.
Rano smiles faintly at him. She couldn't thank him enough for looking after her Bani Didi with so much care. Rano had loathed Jai Walia the past month and half due to his horrible wicked behavior with her sister....but seeing him today with her...and after he had saved her from that breaking chandlier... she couldn't possibly hate him anymore.
Smiling silently to herself, Rano steps away from the room and walks away......
*************************************
*************************************
Chapter 16
Bani wasn't sure if it was a dream or real...She rather preferred it to be a dream because she found it hard to digest the fact that Jai Walia, her husband, had actually taken care of her last night. How could that be? It wasn't possible. Jai Walia hated the very look of her....how could he be able to stand her and look after her for so long? But he did....he held her safely in his strong warming arms... talking to her, soothing her in a very silky and comforting tone.... let her lean into him... he even let her quietly cry into his chest, drenching his linen shirt.
Rano re-accounted the events from last night, telling her of all the lovely things Mr. Walia had done for her... she had even fallen asleep on him much to Bani's embarrassment.
She had quickly gotten dressed and walked downstairs and over to the study, where she was sure Jai would be. Bani felt the need to thank him for last night. He had done so much for her... it was only the proper thing to do. She just hoped that the side of him that she saw last night was still there ...and not the seething Jai Walia from before.
Before stepping into the study, Bani inhales and opens the door after knocking and hearing a haste reply, "Come in ". She slowly steps into the study and watches Jai look up from his laptop and stare up at her. He smiles a warm smile.....which nerves her.
Jai: Bani...(pleasantly)
Bani:.....
Bani sees him stand from his chair, walk around from behind the desk, and come towards her side. She feels even more nervous with his close presence.
Jai:...How are you feeling?
Bani gazes at him, amazed by the concern in his voice and his gentle touch on her shoulder. She slowly looks down at his hand and then back up at him...staring into his unusually glad face. Bani finds herself speechless and overwhelmed by this side of him... maybe she hadn't quite woken up yet...yes, this was all a dream. She'll wake up and find that Jai Walia still very much loathes her and can't bare the sight of her.
As Bani's mind races with conclusions to his change of behavior, Jai peers into her stunned looking expression.
Jai: Bani...What's wrong? Are you alright?
She snaps out of it as he asks her this.
Bani: Ji.... hain---- woh---
She gently removes her arm from his grasp and steps back a little, wanting to create some space between them.
Bani:.....thank you.... kaal raat ke liye... (trans: for last night)
He notes how Bani is so edgy and jumpy before him and feel guilty for making her fear him so much.
Jai: (sincere) No problem at all... I am just glad that you're feeling fine now... You are, aren't you?
Bani: (barely audible, lowers her head) Ji...
Jai: (clearly relieved) Good...
A long moment of silence passes between them with Bani looking into his face, in a way expecting for a big blow from him. She even builds up her guard for it... preparing herself for the insults, bitterness, acerbic like words, and pain which he has made a routine to inflict upon her. But she is only instead alarmed and disturbed to see her husband continue to smile lightly at her.
Jai: Bani...
Bani: ....Ji? (frightened)
Was it going to happen now? Will he now start laughing in front of her face and hurt her emotions like he always does?
Jai: Is there anything else you want to say?
Bani: (stammers) N-no...not-thing else...
Jai: Then...if that's all you should...(clears his throat)..
He directs towards the door with his eyes and grins at her as she stares back at him after following his gaze to the door. Her cheeks lightly turn pink as she realizes how foolish she seems...
Bani: O-oh...of course...I'll just leave...
Bani turns on her heels and treads toward the study door. She stops at the doorway in a heart beat as she hears him say, "Bani...". Bani looks back over to him. He's hesitant for a while before he says....
Jai: Actually wait... There's...There's something I've been meaning to say to--------
"Bahu!--- Bahu! Kahan ho tum?! (trans: where are you?!)", the both hear Mausi's voice call. Bani turns around on instinct. She looks back towards Jai whose voice has trailed off.
Bani: Mr. Walia... woh, mausi ko meri zaroort hai--- Main jaoon? (trans: Mr. Walia...Mausi needs me...can I go?)
Defeated, Jai sighs lightly and nods his head in affirmative. He watches her turn around and walk away from him, disappearing behind the door. Running his fingers through his hair, Jai reassures himself that he will let Bani know how sorry he is soon..... ****************************************************
Everyone sat seated at the dining table as Mausi, Bani, and Tony served them all. Jai focuses his gaze onto Bani, watching her interact with everyone- the way she teasingly ruffles Saahil's hair, earning herself a grin from him..... directing a sweet smile at Anu, who smiles back generously.... receiving blessings from Dadi... affectionately patting Rano's hair... placing two paranthas into Aditya's plate, and quarreling with him after he refuses, telling him how lovingly she had made it for him, and Aditya giving into her charm... and lastly getting approval looks and smiles from Mausi.
Jai had never realized how close she had gotten to his family, making a place into all of their hearts. And to think he had thought that she was a threat to him and his family. He happens to catch his sister cast a dirty look at Bani's direction at that exact moment.
Surely Bani has affected everyone in a way, but Jigyasa was an exception. It would take his sister longer to realize the honesty in his wife. It surely took him a while...........
Finishing his breakfast, Aditya wipes his napkin against his mouth and sets it back down onto his finished plate. Standing up from his seat, he looks over at his friend.
Aditya: Come on, Jai, we should get a move on. We don't want to run late.
Jai nods and also gets out of his seat after wiping his own mouth. Jigyasa stares over at Aditya with curiosity. She knew of Aditya's cold shoulder behavior with her brother for the last few weeks weeks.
Jigyasa: Ek minute. --- Tum Jai bhaiya ke saath jaahre ho? (trans: One minute..You're going with Jai Bhaiya?)
Aditya: Of course. Kyon? (trans: Why?)
Jigyasa: But you have been taking your own car for the last two weeks. Why are you suddenly going with Bhai again?
Aditya grins and looks over to Jai. He wraps an arm around Jai's shoulder, bringing him close against him, almost bear hugging him.
Aditya: I have missed going to the office with my pal.
Jai can't help but smile himself at his friend's comment. Even he had missed his absence in the mornings. Aditya's pointless talks, he now realized, completed his day.
Aditya: Chale, Jai? (trans: shall we go, Jai?)
Jai: Hain, chalo. (trans: Yes, let's go.)
As soon as Jai and Aditya lift up their briefcases, they hear Bani call after them. "Ji, suniye!". Turning around, they see her catching up to them with a glass containing orange juice. (Every morning ever since Mausi had arrived, it became a routine that Bani would make Jai drink a glass of juice, which Mausi of course enforced.) She slowly halts in front of Jai and quietly extends the glass to him.
Bani: Aapka juice.... (softly) (trans: Your juice.)
Jai casts a quick side look over to Aditya, who gives him an encouraging nudge. He looks back over at a sincere looking Bani. Taking the glass from her, brushing his fingers against hers, Jai drinks the juice in front of her. Bringing it away from his lips, he casts his eyes back onto her and smiles gently.
Jai: Khush? (trans: Happy?)
Bani: (slightly flushed by his gaze on her) ...Ji.
He hands the empty glass back over to her and continues to wear a soft smile. Aditya clears his throat, bringing them both out of their lost daze. He grins and bids Bani a farewell. Bani bids him back and silently stares back over at Jai. She mutters softly, "Aapka kyaal rakhiye". (trans: take care of yourself.) Jai Walia says something that catches his wife off guard--- "Tum bhi".........(trans: You too......) ************************************************************ *******************************
Bani seemed to carry out her day acting very lost. Mausi would find her plenty of times just silently standing by herself in a daze, looking as if she were in deep thoughts or something was troubling her. When Mausi would snap her out of it and ask her if anything was wrong, she would deny it quickly. Even Rano noticed that something was going on with her sister and also tried to inquire her about it, but to no success. She just kept denying that something was bothering her.
Being alone in the living room, Bani silently sits down on one of the couches as she fiddles with her mangulsutra. She can't seem to figure out the sudden change in Jai. It was all so... strange and highly unbelievable. Where did all this kindness and concern come from? How come he was so generously smiling at her this morning and acting so polite? He had even wished Rano a good morning when he arrived at the breakfast table. Something was definitely fishy.... He couldn't have just woken up this morning and forget all about his hatred towards her and her sisters. So what is causing him to be so.....nice?
Hearing the shrilling of a phone brings her back to reality and shakes her up. She looks over at the glass table in the room and walks over to it, grabbing the phone.
Bani: Hello?
Raashi: Bani! --- I'm so glad that you picked up. I've been calling you for a couple of days now, but you weren't available and you haven't been picking up your cell phone. How come?
Bani: Oh, Raashi. I'm sorry. I guess I was just caught up with work at home.
Raashi: How's Mausi?
Bani: Mausi's great. She's recovered really well now.
Raashi: That's good to hear. So that must mean that you're coming back to the office, right?
Bani becomes mute on the topic of the office. She automatically remembers the project that JW started that will soon destroy her home. She wasn't planning on ever going back so she wouldn't have to deal with the reminder that she's losing her childhood home, she didn't have the strength in her to do so.
Raashi: (curiously) Bani?...Bani, are you still there?
Bani: (snapping out of it) Oh... Yes, I'm still here.
Raashi: So are you coming back?
Bani:..Um, I'm not so sure Raash. Not until awhile.
Raashi: But how com---
Bani: (quickly) How's the office?
Raashi: (slightly taken aback) Oh, it's nothing great really. Just the usual. I have a mountain of work to do like always. But it's kind of nice not to have to worry about the Mount Abu project anymore. That's one project off of my shoulders.
Bani: (immediately alarmed) What?--- Why don't you have to worry about that project anymore?
Raashi: Oh, because Sir called it off yesterday. He didn't sign the project papers. It had something to do about the location. But for whatever reasons, the project is no more.
Bani feels a sudden wave of relief wash over her and a thankful smile forms on her lips. Water begins to dwell in her eyes. Did she hear Raashi right? Did she just say what she thinks she said?
Bani: Raashi, are you sure? (hastily)
Raashi: Yup, positive. I even double checked with him this morning.
Bani: Oh Raashi, that's wonderful!
Raashi: (confused) Why are you so happy?
Bani: (regaining herself) ...I mean, it's wonderful for you. That's one project off our shoulders. Just like how you had said. Less work.
Raashi: Yeah. And I'm really grateful for it too.
Bani felt like exploding from all the happiness she was experiencing at the moment. He wasn't going to construct a casino over it. Her childhood home will still be there. Her only link with her ceased parents will continue to exist.
Bani: (almost choking on her own tears) Raashi, I'm sorry but I have to go. Mausi needs me. It was great talking to you.
Raashi: (upset) But Bani, I just called----
Bani: Bye, Raashi.
Bani places the phone back down onto its receiver and wipes away her falling tears with the back of her hand. Just as quickly as happiness approached her, confusion struck her.
Yeh kya horaya hai? Mr. Walia aise behave kyon khar rahe hai? Wajah kya hai? Achank se woh aaj subah itine politeness se mere saath bholreh the.... aur abh usne project ko call off kiya? Akar kyon? Iske peeche kya wajah hai? ....Kya Mr. Walia ---- Kya woh kuch aur khar neh wale hai? .... (trans: What is this? Why is Mr. Walia behaving like this What is the reason? Suddenly he was speaking politely to me this morning...and now he has called off the project? How come? What is the reason behind this? Is Mr. Walia--- Is he up to something else?)
************************************************************ *********
Jai angrily remains seated in his seat, not heeding any attention towards his co-workers and the project being presented on the power point before him----furious by how he has been so bothered by business matters the whole day, not being able to have any alone time to himself at all to think. Thinking of what to do for Bani.... Instead of coming up with numerous of ways he can apologize, he has been preoccupied by work, being approached by his employees with various types of work to be done and being irritated by his PA constantly.
He sighs. It seems as if the whole world is against him today. Jai glances down at his watch and scowls. It's getting late and dinner would start in thirty minutes back at the Mansion. Agitatedly he looks back up and glares at the presenter, his co-worker, who was holding him up......
************************************************************ *
Everyone sit seated in their respectful seats at the dining table ready for Dinner as their food is served onto their plates. Bani's eyes fall onto the head chair of the table, where Jai always sits, which is empty. She begins to worry about his absence, but also at the same time is thankful that he isn't around. She was already a mess as it is, suspecting his decision of not carrying on the Mount Abu project and anxiously thinking of what he is up to. His presence would only nerve her more.
Mausi catches Bani staring sadly at Jai's empty seat and smiles gently. It's always nice to see how much her daughter-in-law cares for her Munna.
Mausi: (teasing smile) Bahu, kya hua? Tumhari dhyaan kahan hai? (trans: Bahu, what happened? where is your attention?)
Bani, caught off guard, is alarmed and looks up directly at Mausi, whose eyes were full of mischief and tease. She can feel her whole face begin to turn a dark shade of red and becomes nervous by everyone's sudden attention on her.
Bani: Ji…woh-- kaheen nahi, Mausi… (trans: No where Mausi)
Mausi: Are you sure? Because I have been noticing that you keep looking over at Munna's seat.
Bani turns even more red by this. Dadi smiles fondly at this and Aditya can't help but grin himself. Jigyasa, disgusted, carries on with eating her food. Rano, Saahil, and Anu watch on curiously, yet amused.
Bani: Nahi toh… (trans: not at all)
Mausi: Accha…so you are starting to lie to me now.
Bani: (hastily) No, of course not Mausi.
Mausi: So you were looking at Munna's seat…
Bani lowers her eyes. Mausi smiles at this.
Mausi: Tum fikar maat karo, tumhara paati aanwala hai… tora inteezar khar…(teasingly) (trans: don't you worry, your husband is coming...just wait for a little more.)
Everyone smirks at this, except Jigyasa of course, who becomes infuriated by the "nonsense". Dadi chuckles.
Dadi: Billo, rehendo nah. Bechari ki chera dekho… bilkul laal hogayi. (trans: Billo, stop it already. Look at the poor girl's face...it's become absolutely red.
Mausi: (giggling also) Saach, I love to see my Bahu so concerned for my Munna.
Bani doesn't know how much more red she can get and begins to feel like she can just die from embarrassment right now. She sees Aditya give her a teasing wink, which only makes her feel worse.
Right at that second, they all hear the doorbell ring loudly, alerting them all. Tony scuttles off towards the front doors. Mausi smiles widely.
Mausi: Loh… agaye tumhara paati…. (trans: look...here comes your husband)
Bani sinks down in her chair, feeling absolutely embarrassed and shy by everyone's attention and knowledge of her staring at his empty chair, most likely thinking that she's missing his presence.
"Thanks Tony," a familiar deep voice speaks not so far away. Bani's heart begins to pace. She keeps her gaze down onto the table. In less than a minute, Mausi says enthusiastically, "Aao Munna." (trans: Come munna)
Jai seats himself down at the head of the chair and smiles apologetically in Mausi's direction.
Jai: I'm sorry Mausi that I'm late….. I got held up at the office.
Mausi: Koi baat nahin, Munna…(trans: no worries, munna) you're here… that's all that matters….and Bahu is now happy, I suppose. Haina, Bahu?
If Bani had the ability to, she would had disappeared from the table right that second rather than see amusement clearly shown on Jai's face and have him gaze at her like how he is right now.
Jai: (still looking at Bani) Woh kaise Mausi? (trans: why is that mausi?)
Mausi: Because now you are here… Bechari kept on staring at your chair, wishing you were here.
Everyone becomes silent, realizing that Mausi is crossing a dangerous line. They all know too well how much Jai despises Bani, and that hearing of how Bani was waiting for him- is probably something he doesn't want to know. All but Aditya-- who smiles on. Jigyasa smirks herself, thinking that her bhaiya will most likely become annoyed and angry by this and push Bani further away from him. She happily eats on.
Jai: (smiling gently) Now I am finally here… your wait is over.
Surprised Bani quickly glances up and their eyes connect. She stares at him dazedly…. Jai stares back at her with his dark electrifying gray eyes as he continues to give her a small warm smile. Jigyasa, Anu, Saahil, Rano, and Dadi also look at Jai, equally shocked by his genuine like reply. Mausi smiles approvingly.
Aditya watches their eye lock session with amusement and clears his throat loudly, bringing them both out of it. He grins as he sees them both look away from each other nervously. Jai clears his own throat and quickly says, "So what's for Dinner?"…..
******************* ************************************************************ *********
Jai sighs as he approaches his bedroom. This whole day he didn't have a chance to speak to Bani alone. At the office there was so much work to complete and too many interruptions. And at the mansion, everyone was always everywhere. Not once had he seen Bani without either Anu, Saahil, Rano, Dadi, or Mausi by her side. After Dinner he was hoping that he would get a chance to talk to her, but Anu took her off towards her room, wanting to know what outfit she should wear to her University the next day, and after that he got a phone call from Mr. Kapoor who involved him into a very long conversation.
He slowly twists the doorknob and opens the door quietly. Peeping his head into the room, he sees that all of the lights are off and catches an outline of a figure laying on the far off side of the bed. She's asleep… he thinks disappointedly. Jai walks into the room and closes the door behind him. He approaches their bed and sees his nightgown neatly laid on top of it. Bringing it into his hands, Jai glances up and rests his eyes on his sleeping wife.
There's always tomorrow…. he reassures himself……
************************* ************************************************************ *********
Chapter 17
Hearing the annoying shrilling of an alarm, Jai wakes up alertly and presses down onto the snooze button on his alarm clock. Running his fingers through his hair and yawning, Jai looks over to the left side of the bed and sees that its empty, like usual. He searches around the room to see any sign of her, even checks to see if the bathroom door is closed and the light is on, but is surprised to see that she is no where in the room. Odd…she's always in here in the mornings….Perhaps she woke up early….
Throwing the comforter off of him, Jai makes his way towards the bathroom to get ready for the day…….
*************** ************************************************************ *********
After setting the last dish down onto the table, Bani sits down, ready to eat herself. She notes that mostly everyone is at the table, except for Aditya who isn't feeling well and is resting. However, she catches a glimpse of another empty chair, in between Mausi and Anu. That seat usually belongs to Rano… Bani finally realizes that there's no sign of her little sister, who is always prompt and early. Worriedly she searches around.
Saahil: Alright Mom, me and Anu are gonna go, otherwise we're gonna be late for our classes.
Saahil tells his mother, after getting out of his chair and pushing it back in. Jigyasa smiles affectionately at his son and daughter.
Jigyasa: Drive safely, beta.
Every morning Saahil and Anu take a car to their University. Rano refuses to go with them because she doesn't want to deal with Saahil's misbehaving comments, nor does she wish to be caught into trouble with Jigyasa for being around her kids, because she supposedly is a "bad" influence on them.
Bidding farewells and after kissing her father goodbye, Anu follows after her twin brother, grabbing her backpack and books along.
Jai, who is eating his toast, catches Bani looking around the Mansion tensely. He follows her gaze around, wondering what she's searching for, and then looks back at her.
Jai: Bani…
Bani stares over at Jai's direction.
Jai: What are you looking at?
Bani: ……..
Mausi: (also curious) Bahu, kya hua?
Bani: Ji, Mausi… Rano…she's not here.
Everyone else also realize her missing presence. She usually is always quiet, therefore, no one really noticed that she wasn't here.
Mausi: Hain, yeh baut to saahi hai…Rano kahan hai? (trans: Yes, where is Rano?)
"I'm right here, Mausi!", they all hear someone shout hurriedly. Rano paces towards the dining table, with her bag dangling on her shoulder and books piled sloppily in her arm.
Bani: (slightly angry) Rano, what is this? How come you were not here for Breakfast?
Rano: (hastily) I'm sorry Bani Didi, I overslept. I was studying till late last night.
Bani: Rano, you really shouldn't be studying up till so late.
Rano: (annoyed) Didi, please lecture me later, I have to go to the University right now, otherwise I will be very late!
Everyone watch both sister interacting with one another, Bani scolding Rano, and Rano trying to get away from a lecture. It puts a smile onto everyone's faces, including Jai's. This was Jai's first time ever seeing Bani scolding someone before.
Bani: Arre, Rano! Rukho! At least eat something!
Rano: Can't Di! I'm already late as it is!
Bani: See, this is exactly what happens when you study till late! --- Rano, I'm not letting you leave here without at least eating or drinking something.
Rano lets out a frustrated groan and then reaches out for a glass of orange juice resting on the table. She quickly downs it down and shows her sister the empty glass.
Rano: Look, I drank something. Can I go now?
Jai looks at his empty glass of orange juice in Rano's hand. Mausi giggles at the sisterly banter.
Bani: Okay, baba, go!
Dadi: Arre Rano puttar, take one of the Walia cars, you are going to waste time finding a rickshaw.
Bani and Rano look at Dadi and then at everyone else. During their little fight, they had seemed to forget that everyone was around. Bani instantly becomes quiet.
Mausi: I have an idea. --- Munna.
Jai: (looking up) Ji Mausi?
Mausi: Why don't you take Rano to her university? You pass by there don't you? While you're going to the office?
Rano: Mausi, that's not necessary. --- Mr. Walia, you don't have to, I don't want to waste your time.
Jai: (sincerely) I don't mind dropping you off Rano. Besides, it would be best if you come along with me. Dadi saahi kehte hai.(trans: Dadi is right.) There's no guarantee that you will find a rickshaw.
Rano: Lekin-----
Mausi: Arre jao nah Rano. (trans: Go on Rano.)You were saying that you're running late. You are only wasting time dear.
Rano glances over at her sister who looks at her husband suspiciously.
Mausi: Bahu, tum kaho nah. Tumhari behen ko samjado. (trans: Bahu, you tell her. Make your sister understand.)
Looking away from Jai and over at Mausi, Bani nods hesitantly.
Bani: Rano… tum Mr. Walia ke saath jao. (trans: Rano... go with Mr. Walia.) He will take you to the University on time…
******************* ************************************************************ *********
Jai: Rano, why are you sitting in the back?
Jai questions her as she opens the back car door. Rano, alarmed, looks over at him innocently. He smiles nicely.
Jai: Come on and sit in the front.
Rano, without a word, obliges and obediently sits in the front. Jai sits in the driver's seat and puts the key into the ignition, starting the car. He pulls out of the driveway.
It had been less than a minute since the both had gotten into the car, and already an awkward silence formed. Rano pretended to be looking through her books to avoid making conversation, and Jai uncomfortably continued to drive.
Throughout the drive he would occasionally look at his sister-in-law and feel the guilt inside of him rise. Jai had not only committed injustice towards Bani, but also to Rano. He had been rude towards her and caused her to suffer along with Bani. Seeing her older sister miserable must of course had upset Rano. …If he was going to apologize to Bani, then he certainly also has to apologize to Rano.
Stepping onto the brake pedal and bringing the car into a slow halt before the university, Jai takes in a deep breath and urges himself to go ahead with it. This will probably be the only chance he gets with Rano alone.
Jai: Rano…..
Rano takes her eyes off of the pages in her book and stares at him curiously. She watches him keep his eyes focused on the windshield before him and his hands tighten around the steering wheel.
Jai: (feeling her eyes on him) ….there's a big burden on my chest …and I would like your help to remove it…
Rano shuts her book closed and keeps her eyes on him, her attention now completely on him. She doesn't speak and waits patiently for him to proceed on.
Jai: I have committed a grave mistake…I terrible mistake…. For the first time in my life, I feel ashamed of myself.
Rano remains speechless, not knowing what to say nor unable to understand why Jai Walia is choosing to tell her all of this. Her, one of the Dixit sisters, who he despises.
Jai: I have… I have failed to recognize an honest person… --- I have failed to recognize honest people. (correcting himself) … I was so blinded with anger and revenge that I could not see the innocence in them. … I mistreated them both harshly…and blamed them for everything even though they had done nothing wrong. I blamed them for one person's mistake……
Jai knows that Rano will catch on. She's an intelligent girl, he is sure of it. And he is proven right when he sees realization strike onto her face from the corner of his eye.
Jai: (going on, feeling better after every sentence he speaks) I have hurt you and Bani a lot… especially your sister.
He finally faces her.
Jai: I always insulted her, never left a chance to hurt her emotions, and was always harsh on her. I punished her for Pia's mistake. I misunderstood her… I thought that she was a part of Pia's plan to elope….and it angered me, thinking that she had helped Pia and Pushkar with stabbing me in the back. …. But it was only a couple of days ago that I realized that she was innocent the whole time… She was just as clueless as me.
Rano couldn't seem to fathom any of this. This was all so sudden and unexpected. She remains mute and in a trance of bewilderment.
Jai: …I have now realized that there are many similarities between me and your sister…. We were both unaware of what we were going to get into…. We both lost a sibling…. And we both were betrayed by the one we love…..
Rano's eyes widen with shock.
Rano: Aapka matlab hai ke….keh aapko maloom----
Jai: Yes…. I know your sister loved Pushkar at the time…. Still does I suppose.
Rano opens her mouth to intervene, but Jai cuts her off.
Jai: I know that I have hurt you too. I detested you also because you were Pia's sister…. and I know it must have been difficult for you to see me behave with Bani the way I did. --- Rano, I don't deserve any forgiveness at all… for the way I have acted. For what I did. …. But still, I am pleading to you…. forgive me. ….I have recognized my fault. I want to apologize to you for everything that I have done to you and Bani. ….I don't think I'll ever go on with life the same knowing that you and your sister haven't forgiven me.
Rano blinks away her forming tears and quickly speaks.
Rano: Mr. Walia, you aren't at any fault at all! In fact, if there's anyone who should be apologizing then it should be me and Bani Di. Because of our sister you had to face so much humiliation and hurt. She even has created a rift between you and Pushkar. Our sister is the one who has made all of this mess. It is because of her that you acted this way… so if there is anyone at fault, then it is me and my sisters. Me and Bani Di should have known what Pia was up to…….
Jai: It's not your fault nor Bani's for what Pia did. Just because she is your sister doesn't hold you two responsible for her actions, I have realized this. ….and you can't say that I was at no fault here… I shouldn't have assumed that Bani was apart of it… I should had seen the honesty in her….
Rano: Mr. Walia… it isn't necessary for you to ask for forgiveness from either of us… because I had forgiven you way before. The day you saved my Bani Did's life, I forgave you completely and understood that you were acting on a misunderstanding…. You didn't know….and you were betrayed by two people, so it is understandable that you didn't want to believe anyone else. …. As for Bani Di, she has never held you responsible for anything…. Nor holds any grudge against you even today…. She understood the state that you were going through….
Jai leans back into his car seat and runs his hand over his hair, frustrated.
Jai: Which is why I want to make it up to her… I wish I can take away all the hurt I have inflicted upon her, but I know that isn't possible…. Even if she has forgiven me, I still feel the need to apologize… I have been a horrible person to her….
Rano: (lightly smiles) You may think so Mr. Walia, but to my Bani Di… you are a wonderful person.
Jai looks over to her, beyond confused.
Jai: How?
Rano's smile becomes wider.
Rano: Because you have given her a new life…. and that's something she can never forget. If it weren't for you Mr. Walia… if you hadn't taken us orphans in, we wouldn't have the comfortable stable life we are living right now. You gave Bani Didi a chance to give her sister's happiness and various opportunities in life. … and that's what she always had wanted.
"Hey Rano!," they both hear a cry. Rano looks out of her open window and sees her friend wave at her, signaling for her to come along. She looks back over to Jai, who is digesting all that she had said.
Rano: That's my friend Nisha… we always go to our first class together….I should get going. Thank you for driving me, Mr. Walia.
Jai just nods his head and watches Rano gather her stuff and get out of the car. She closes the car door and leans in through the open window.
Rano: And to me…. you will still be the same person I always looked up to….
Jai watches Rano smile cheerily and walk away from him in bewilderment……
************ ************************************************************ *********
Chapter 18
Rano walks out of the classroom with her good friend by her side, laughing at something that Nisha has said. Both stroll down the hall with their books protectively held against their chest, smiling and giggling.
Nisha: And that's not at all, so Raj Chacha, clearly drunk, goes up to her and-------
Rano: (bright red from laughter, tears in her eyes) Oh God Nisha, stop it already. My stomach is about to burst. You're going to kill me one day with these stories of your Raj Chacha.
Nisha: Arre sunno to, Rano, I haven't even gotten to the good part yet...
Rano: alright, shoooottt------
Rano lets out a short scream of surprise as she suddenly feels herself being yanked backwards. After straightening her glasses and checking to see that her books haven't slipped, she glances up and is infuriated to see Saahil smirking down at her, his hand wrapped around her wrist. She struggles to let herself go...
Rano: What is this, Saahil? Let me go. (obviously angry)
Saahil: And why would I do that?
Rano: Because I will break your legs. (threatens)
Nisha: Saahil, what is this childishness? Let Rano go.
Saahil: You don't understand Nisha, I have been trying to get this girl's attention for awhile now, but she never has time for me. She ignores me at college, avoids taking the car with me and Anu, --- doesn't even look at me back at home.... what other choice do I have?
Rano: To smartly let go of my hand otherwise you will face pretty nasty consequences.
Saahil: (fastening his grip) I'm ready to face anything for you....
Rano looks at him, purely disgusted. She rolls her free hand into a fist and punches him hard into his stomach. Saahil, not expecting this, instantly lets go of her wrist and lets out a moan. He wraps both arms across his stomach protectively.
Rano: I warned you... but silly me, I should have realized that a dimwit as yourself wouldn't give up. ... Come on Nisha.
Rano takes Nisha by her arm and drags her along. Saahil is left behind--- moaning in pain. Rano walks angrily and fast, whereas Nisha tries to catch up with her, despite her short stubby legs.
Rano: That moron.... idiot....stupid....jerk....dimwit....pig! How dare he touch me like that?!
Nisha: (panting, tired from keeping up with her) Well when do you ever give him a shot? What else do you expect the poor guy to do?
Rano stops immediately in her tracks and turns on her heels. She glares at her friend, who now realizes that she has made a mistake. She bites down on her tongue.
Rano: Don't you dare take that moron's side! (turning back around, walking again, mumbling to herself) Next thing you know he's assaulting me, and you'll say 'well what else do you expect the poor guy to do? You never give him a shot?'
Nisha: (sighs) That's not what I meant.
At that instant Rano's cell begins to ring. Alarmed, she looks down at her bag and searches through it for her phone. Nisha waits patiently off to the side.
Rano: (not recognizing the number) Hello?
"Aaahhh...eerr...Rano?", says a familiar man in a nervous tone. Rano lightly smiles on now recognizing the caller.
Rano: (her earlier frustration gone) Mr. Walia, aap?
Jai: (diffident) Hain, woh--- main.
Rano: Ji... khaiye Mr. Walia. Aapko koi kaam hai?(trans: Yes Mr. Walia...do you have any work that needs to be done?)
Jai: Nahi....I mean, yes... I do actually....
Running a hand through his thick hair, Jai swivels in his chair and sighs.
Jai: I'm just going to come out and say this, Rano....
Rano: (noting his tone, worried) What's wrong Mr. Walia? Has something happened?
Jai: No, every thing's alright... it's just that... I've been meaning to --- apologize to Bani... (embarrassed, sheepishly) I just don't know how.....
Rano: What do you mean? (puzzled)
Jai: I mean... with you I just seemed to be able to say it without any hesitation.... but just thinking about Bani... I can't even bring myself to face her.... how can I apologize to her?
Rano: Mr. Walia, you are worrying too much.... It will all be fine... You will just have to gather some courage and say it to her. The sooner you get it off of your chest, the better you and Bani Didi will feel. It's as simple as that..... and just remember that Bani Di is a very forgiving person.
Jai: ...... You're right.... (calming a little bit down) .... There's another problem though....
Rano: Yes?
Jai: .... I can't seem to get your Bani Di on her own.... She's always with someone from the family or is busy.... How do I get her alone?
Rano: (smiling) Mr. Walia--- aap bhi nah. You really have lost it, haven't you?
Jai: Why?
Rano: Have you ever thought of taking Bani Di out for dinner? .... With that excuse, you can have plenty of time away from the family to talk to her alone.....
Jai: (realization striking him, feeling incredibly stupid) ... Of course.... Oh God, I can't believe I had to call a eighteen year old girl just to hear something I could have thought of myself....--- (quickly) No offense.
Rano: No offense taken.
Jai: (laughing a little to himself) I'm becoming crazy... here I am, a successful businessman, owner of a billion dollar worth company...afraid and nervous of talking to my own wife.
Rano: (joining in with his light laughter)
Jai: ... Thank you Rano.
Rano: No problem at all. If you need anything else, I'm be more than glad to help out.
Jai: I think I can take care of the rest.... but please do one small favor...
Rano: Yes?
Jai: Make sure that Bani's schedule is cleared... I think I will go mad if I won't be able to talk to her again....
Rano: That I will surely make sure is done.... Good luck, Mr. Walia... and please be calm... don't fret too much... Bani didi is a really understanding....
Jai: (grins) I know.... and thank you once again. *cuts the call*
Rano, smiling, puts her phone back into her bag and turns around to find Nisha give her a questioning look.
Nisha: What did Mr. Walia say?
Rano: Nothing important... --- Alright, Nisha, I'll see you tomorrow. I need to get on home otherwise Bani Didi will worry.
Nisha: Sure thing. See ya.
After bidding Nisha bye, Rano continues to walk down the opposite side of the hallway, towards the front entrance of the university. As she opens the wooden door, the sun rays instantly blind her and she shields her eyes with her arm, which doesn't do much help. She runs down the long cement stairs quickly to reach the ground. Due to the glare from the sun, Rano doesn't note much of her surroundings, therefore she doesn't notice the tall young man dressed in a classy business suit, loiter around at the end of the stairs. She bumps directly into him and feels herself lose her balance. Frighteningly she awaits for her face to hit smack with the sidewalk, but instead feels a pair of strong arms hold her tight around her waist and support her.........
************************************************************ ******************************
Aditya walks into Jai's cabin with a few files in his hand and sees Jai talking seriously into his cell phone. He curiously watches him and sits down in the seat across his desk. Jai perks up on seeing him.
Jai: Aditya....
Aditya: (thinking he wants to know why he's here) Jai, I have a few files here which you're required to-----
Jai: (waving his hand) I'll deal with those later... first tell me... what kind of flowers do you think are suitable for an invitation to dinner? ... I don't want to overwhelm her....
Aditya: (very curious) Who?
Jai: ... Uh, yes, hang on.... (covering the phone piece with his hand) Bani... (answering Aditya)
Aditya: Bani? --- But why?
Jai: I'm taking her out to dinner tonight.... (talking back with the employee) Just hang on please, I have to think about this.... (to Aditya) So? what flowers?
Aditya: (shrugs) Red roses?
Jai: (shakes his head) Too overused... besides, I don't want to send her the wrong idea...
Aditya: (getting up and walking over to him, sitting on the corner of his desk) You're taking Bani out?
Jai: Hmmm... ( he answers shortly as he's thinking of different kinds of flowers)
Aditya: (leaning in closer) To apologize I suppose?
Jai: Hmm...
Aditya: How about white roses? Aren't they supposed to symbolize friendship?
Jai: (smiling) I think you're mixing those up with yellow roses Aditya.
Aditya: Well did I say that I have knowledge of flowers?
Jai: (ignoring his remark)..... Lilies...white lilies.... those will be perfect, won't they?
Aditya just shrugs and nods him on. Jai goes back to talking with the flower deliverer and orders a bouquet of white lilies. After finalizing that, he then calls up the finest restaurant in the city and makes reservations for eight o'clock.
Aditya: You're putting a great deal of effort into this dinner, Jai. (surprised)
Jai sets the office desk phone down onto its receiver and answers in a gloomy voice..."It's the least I can do for her".......
************************************************************ ***********
Slowly Rano peeps through her eyelids and is awed by what she sees, causing her to lift her eyelids all the way open. The tall, nicely tanned man flashes her a swooning smile and he bores into her light brown eyes with his dark brown ones. "Whoa there", he says in an incredibly deep sexy voice, causing Rano to flush pink and her heart to race. He gently helps her up and removes his hands away from her waist, disappointing Rano a little.
"You may want to watch where you're going", he advises her in a caring tone. Rano just continues to shamely blush before him and look at him with wonder. She sees him grin widely at her, scanning her quickly from head to toe. She burns warm under his checking eyes. The man glances down onto the ground and bends down. She follows his gaze and sees that he's gathering her fallen books. He politely extends them back to her.
"Your books." Rano shyly takes them away from him and panickly turns around, wanting to leave, feeling new to these strange feelings and to the stranger, but he stops her once again. "You're forgetting something." Confused Rano looks back to him, wondering what it is that she's forgotten, and sees her black thin rimmed reading glasses in his hand. He surprises her by coming close to her and slowly placing them onto her eyes. The handsome man continues to smile at her. "You really are a strange woman.... you bump into me and don't even apologize.... and just remaining mum." Rano, startled, looks him straight into his eyes.
Rano: (quickly, shyly) Sorry... I didn't see you... the sun----
"Bhaiya!---- Bhaiya!!!", Rano hears a familiar voice shout from a distance. Both Rano and the man look behind them and see Nisha standing at the top of the stairs, waving eagerly down at them. She runs down towards them. As she approaches she hugs the stranger. Rano watches this, confused.
Nisha: Bhaiya, I've been waiting for you about five whole minutes. You know how I don't like to wait... and what are you doing here in the front of the university? You were supposed to pick me up from the back.... I had to walk so far to come here...
"Sorry, I was a little confused...", the man answers her with an apologetic look. Nisha turns to Rano and then looks back to her brother.
Nisha: I'm guessing you two have met?
Rano blushes as Nisha's brother smiles. He nods his head in an affirmative. "We certainly have met... yet are in need of a proper introduction."
Nisha: (cheerfully) Bhaiya, this is Rano, my very good friend. Remember I mentioned her to you a couple of times? ----- (turning to Rano) And Rano, this is my brother, Ranveer... I also have told you about him once in awhile....
Both Rano and Ranver acknowledge this fact and go back to staring at one another. Rano, suddenly confused, looks over to Nisha.
Rano: Nisha...you drive home with your own car, don't you?... Then why has your...(her eyes traveling back over to Ranveer, and becoming instantly quiet)
Ranveer grins at her shy-like behavior.
Nisha: I told you, didn't I? I got my license suspended so Bhai has to pick me up from the university for awhile... and Ma wont let me take the rickshaw because she finds it filthy.
Rano remembers this and nods her head, showing her this. Nisha looks back over to Ranveer, who still has his eyes on his little sister's friend.
Nisha: Shall we go Bhaiya?
Ranveer: (snapping out of it, unwillingly taking his eyes off of Rano) Yes, let's go.
Nisha: I'll see you tomorrow Rano.
Rano smiles and watches both brother and sister walk towards the parking lot and to their parked car. She blushes a bright red as she sees Nisha's brother look back and wink.......
****************** ************************************************************ ***********
Bani smiles along with Mausi as she talks fondly of her home in Chandigarh. She brushes away a strand of hair with the back of her hand as her palms are covered with flour and goes back to kneading the dough before her. She continues to listen on respectively.
Mausi: Saach Bahu, ek din main tumhe wahan laakhe jaaongi... (trans: Really Bahu, one day I will take you there.)
Bani: Ji, Mausi....
The both hear the front door bell ring and turn their heads at the same time. Bani pats her hand and makes a movement to go, but Mausi stops her by holding onto her arm lightly.
Mausi: Arre Bahu, tum kahan jhare ho? Tony hai.... woh dhekloonga. ...Tony (motioning Tony). (trans: Where are you going? Tony is here... he will see...)
Tony obliges and leaves the kitchen. He walks towards the front doors and opens them. He stares curiously at the stranger before him, wearing a polite smile and a business hat on his bald head.
Moments later, Mausi and Bani hear Tony calling out for his Bani Ma'am. Bani, surprised, looks over to Mausi who nods her on. She leaves the kitchen without wasting another second, curious as to why Tony is calling her. Mausi follows on behind her, a little curious herself. Bani joins Tony at the doors.
Bani: Kya hua, Tony? You were calling me?
Tony: Ji, woh... Bani ma'am, he needs your signature.
Bani looks over to her left and stares at the man, who holds a beautiful bouquet of white lilies in his hands, an elegant looking card neatly tucked inside of it. The man smiles friendly and extends over a clipboard over to her where her signature is required. Bani, confused, signs on the straight line and gives it back to him. The man then hands over the bouquet to her and tips the rim of his hat at her and bids her a good day.
Bani stares at the flowers dazedly and runs her fingers over them gently. Her fingers come across the small card and she is about to open it until she is startled by Mausi's sudden voice.
Mausi: Arre wah, yeh phool kahan se aaye? (trans: where have these flowers come from?)
Bani stares over at her direction and lightly shrugs, showing confusion on her face.
Bani: Pata nahi, Mausi.... (trans: I don't know Mausi...) (turning to Tony) Yeh phool kiske liye hai, Tony? (trans: Who are these flowers for Tony?)
Tony: Ma'am, woh aadmi kaha tha ke aapke liye hai. (trans: ma'am, that man was saying that they are for you.)
Bani: (surprised, repeats) Mere liye? (trans: For me?)
Tony nods his head in an affirmative. Mausi bears a wide smile on her lips. She looks at Bani excitedly.
Mausi: Arre Bani, dekho nah... card ko pharo.... (trans: Arre Bani, look at it... read the card...)
Bani hesitantly grabs the card as Mausi encourages her. She flips it open and reads the neatly black pen written handwriting on the inside of the white empty space. Her heart lurches....
White lilies for a beautiful woman as yourself.....
--- Be ready by seven-thirty sharp. We will be having dinner at the Watermoon Restaurant. I have made reservations for the both of us at eight o'clock. I am tied up with work at the office so I will meet you directly there.
- JW
p.s. Hope you enjoy the flowers.
Bani quickly scans through the words once more, not quite believing her eyes. She swallows down hard. Jai Walia, her husband, wants to have dinner with her?....Tonight? Panic quickly approaches her.
Mausi: What does it say?
Bani hastily shuts the card closed.
Bani: Kuch nahi, Mausi.... woh baas... (trans: Nothing, Mausi.. it's just...)
Mausi: Arre? What do you mean by nothing? --- Lao... mujhe dhekao...(trans: show it to me.)
Bani reluctantly hands over the card to Mausi, who reads through it quickly and smiles.
Mausi: Here Munna has asked you out to dinner and you are saying that it's nothing. ... Pagali... arre, tum to khush hone chaaye (trans: you should be happy)... Your husband wants to spend some quality time with you.
Bani opens her mouth to speak, but is cut off by someone's unexpected presence. "Ooooohhh! Flowers!", they hear Rano speak out of no where in an interested tone. She stands by them and looks at the flowers approvingly.
Rano: (running her hands through them) These are so beautiful.... who are they for?
Mausi: Tumhari Bani Di ke liye...(trans: They are for your sister)
Rano: Really?
Rano looks over to her sister's worried looking face and smiles teasingly at her.
Rano: Wah... Di, whoever has sent you these flowers must have known that white lilies are your favorite....
Mausi: (proudly) Jai has sent them and has also made dinner plans for the both of them tonight.
Rano: (faking disbelief) Really? When?
Mausi: Well she has to be ready by 7:30 since dinner starts at 8:00.... (realizing something) Arre, right now it's 6:00... (turning to Bani) Arre Bahu, go on and get ready.... you don't want to get late.
Bani: (hastily, making an excuse) Paar Mausi--- main kaaise jaaon? --- Aapko maadat kaun kaarong----(trans: but Mausi, who can i go? Who will help you---)
Mausi: (cutting her off) Arre, tum mujhe bhool jao. Tum baas tumhara paati ko ...aur tumhare dinner ke baare soch. (trans: Arre, forget about me. Just think about your husband and your dinner.)
Mausi takes the flowers from out of Bani's floured hands and gives her a light push in the direction towards the stairs.
Mausi: Go on and wash up... and then together we will find the perfect saree for you to wear. Kyon, Rano?
Rano: (smiling) Absolutely Mausi.
Bani wears an expression of disappointment and casts a desperate look over to her sister, seeking for some kind of support, instead she also receives a prodding look from her. Sighing, Bani nervously walks up the stairs to her bedroom to take a quick shower and be refreshed.......
********** ************************************************************ ******************************
Just as Bani steps out of the bathroom she is greeted by Mausi and Rano who sit patiently waiting on the bed for her. She fixes her saree carefully on her shoulder and stands before them.
Bani: ...Mausi...Rano....aap dono mere kamre mein?..... (trans: Mausi...Rano... you two in my room...)
Mausi: Maine kaha tha naa Bani--- Hum dono tumhare liye ek sundaar si saare doondlonge... (trans: I had told you Bani- us both will find a beautiful saree for you.)
Bani: Mausi...aap taaqleef kyon uthaare?-- main khud hi chunlongi----- (trans: Mausi, why do you bother? I will myself choose---)
But Mausi hears none of it and proceeds onto Bani's closet and looks through her best sarees. Rano and Mausi both scan through all of them, trying to find the best for the occasion. Bani helplessly watches them from behind, feeling frustrated from their excitement when she is worried for her life..... after all what is the reason for this dinner between her and Mr. Walia? Just thinking about being alone with him away from the family nerves her. --- Goa was different.... he was barely around and she was always usually asleep when he came back to their hotel room. But now they were both going to be conscious and perfectly alone..... What would they talk of during the whole time they're at the restaurant? What will he say to her?
Rano: Mausi, how is this?
Mausi: (awed) Baut sundaar hai, Rano...
Rano: Should Didi wear this?
Mausi: Yes, I think she should. It's very beautiful and it will look nicely on her.......
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CHAPTER 19
Completing the day's work in a rush, Jai hastily made his way towards the Watermoon Restaurant after changing from his gray work suit into a classy designer black one, pretty much preparing himself up physically and mentally for his date with his wife. On his way there he rehearsed to himself of what he would say and do. Quickly Jai entered the Resturant and checked in with the employees to see whether they had done everything following to his precise instructions. He wanted everything to go accordingly to his plan and to the utmost perfection, he didn't want a single thing to go wrong.....
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After literally being pushed into one of the WM cars by both her sister and Mausi, Bani sat nervously and anxiously in the back seat of the car. She glances up and catches a reflection of herself in the car rear view mirror and begins to worry whether she is a little too overdressed for the dinner... Mausi and Rano didn't let her have a say in anything as they decked her up so lavishly, ignoring every single one of her protests. Bani didn't want to be seen as a fool in front of Mr. Walia for taking their dinner so seriously. Throughout the car drive to the restaurant, Bani's stomach flutters and she twists her fingers together, causing her bangles to tinkle obnoxiously- which literally was driving her Driver insane..........
Bani stands rooted in her place before the fancy restaurant, clearly hesitating. She has the urge to run in the other direction and save her life, but knows that would be very foolish of her. If she could tolerate her husband and his acts for more than two months, she can certainly handle some more- Bani persuades herself. By recognizing that and gaining some courage, Bani walks up the stone steps and towards to the front entrance. One of the restaurant workers immediately opens the door for her without a moment delay and wishes for her to have a lovely time, which she is surely predicting that she won't....
Confusedly she wanders around the front of the restaurant, having no idea as to where she should go because that was not specified in her husband's note, but is assisted momentarily by the employee at the podium who held a list of the reservations. (I have no idea what those people are called). He recognizes her without her even informing him of who she is, and without wasting any extra time he leads her to another part of the restaurant, taking her away from the main section where everyone dines. She is further puzzled by this, wondering where on earth the man is taking her.
He stops before a large white door and swings it wide open for her, directing her into it. The waiter smiles politely and says, "Here is where you and your husband will be dining, Mrs. Walia." Bani scans around the decorated isolated area with awe and bewilderment. In the center of the room is a round cheery wood table covered by an elegant white tablecloth, which have rose petals scattered all over on, laid out dining utensils, glasses, and fancy plates. She smells the scent of burning candles and sees them in couple of different parts of the room, accompanied by beautiful flowers. There is light slow music playing in the air....combined with the sound of falling water. Startled, Bani looks off to the side and her breath is literally taken away by the sight of a beautifully carved marble water fountain displayed through the open French doors, adorned by royal red curtains, giving an insight to a glamorous view of the garden and filling the room with a gentle comforting breeze. Lastly her eyes fall onto the man standing across on the other side of the room...responsible for all of this.... staring at her with amazement of his own, looking absolutely handsome like usual. Bani looks back at her husband, speechless.......
**** ************************************************************ *********************
Jai had been tracing back and forth in his steps, waiting nervously for Bani. He occasionally checked his watch to see how much time was left until her expected arrival. Clearly instructing that none of the staff interrupts him or Bani throughout the dinner and to only show themselves when serving, Jai had everything set out and ready. He's hellbent on apologizing to Bani tonight......
Hearing the sound of the doorknob moving, Jai perks up and stops in his tracks. He sees the door fly open and is greeted by the apperance of the woman he was so impatiently waiting for. One glimpse at her, and he becomes completely blown over.... absolutely baffled by her presence. Bani stands in the doorway looking phenomenally beautiful in a tempting dusty pink colored Georgette sari scattered with shimmering sequin works, outlining all of her feminine curves to him. Her writs are adorned with matching bangles. Her neck bears a gorgeous diamond necklace and long dangling earrings attached in her ears. That silky long black hair of hers falls perfectly onto her shoulders. Her light colored eyes seem to stand out more than usual, bearing an exotic look in them from the layering of khol. She glows brightly and Jai feels his heart skip a beat.
Bani's outfit: http://www.sareestore.com/Gallery/SareefullImage.aspx?ID=ERA 807
How is it that Jai never cared to recognize or see Bani's outstanding beauty? He must had been terribly blind to not have noticed it before. She was absolutely gorgeous... and he was realizing this only after his marriage to her.
Seeing her eye him with surprise and looking as if she wants an explanation, Jai speaks up after bringing himself together and clearing his throat. He smiles a rather shaky grin.
Jai: Bani... I'm glad that you came.
Bani remains quiet, still not quite able to digest her surroundings. She proceeds to gaze around the magnificently decorated room with wonder.
Jai: Come....(taking his hand out of his pocket and indicating towards the chairs at the table) Sit...
Bani glances back over to him and doesn't rush to walk over to him. The sound of her chiming anklets cuts through the awkward silence between the two. As she approaches to the closet side of the table to her, Jai appears by her side, politely pulling out her chair for her to sit down. Bani quickly casts him a look for a short second before slowly seating herself into the chair. She mumbles a soft, "Thank you." He gives her a smile.
Jai walks back over to the other side of the table and seats himself. Nervously he looks down at the menu before him and speaks....
Jai: Would you like to go straight into dinner?
Bani dumbly nods at him. She watches him pick up the menu from the side of the table and read it, his eyes scanning back and forth.
Jai: What would you like?
Startled, Bani looks over to her menu lying on the table and reaches for it. She also begins to read it, not knowing what else to do.
Bani: Aap phele order karliye ji.... (softly) (trans: You can order first.)
Jai takes his eyes off the menu and rests them on her. He nods, knowing that she wants some time to think about it. He looks over to his right and calls out for a waiter. In seconds a door off from the right side of the room opens and a waiter enters with a notepad in his hand.
Waiter: Ji, sir? Are you ready to order?
Jai goes on and tells the waiter of the meal he's chosen. The waiter scribbles his order down on the small notepad. When he's done, he glances over to Bani, who looks at the waiter awkwardly.... She tells him her choice in a quiet mum tone. After writing her meal down, the waiter tells them that he will be back in about fifteen moments the max. Both Jai and Bani watch him go and are once again engulfed in a deafening silence. They look back at one another, their eyes meeting, and switch their gazes elsewhere nervously. Jai desperately reaches for his glass and downs the water in it.
Jai: (making conversation) How was your day?
In his head, he is now convinced that taking Bani out to dinner was a horrible idea. Firstly, because of what they've gone through it is quite awkward to be talking with one another formally and secondly, just by looking at Bani he forgets everything that he's been meaning to say to her. Bani thankfully answers back nicely, probably also wishing to make some conversation.
Bani: ... It was alright... nothing new compared to other days....
Bani feels a little better knowing that Jai is behaving kindly and he hasn't planned this dinner for any motive.... but is terribly confused as to why they're even here in the first place. The silence killing her, Bani speaks up after encouraging herself....
Bani: (kindly) woh-- office kaise tha? (trans: How was the office?)
Jai: The usual... you know business....
Bani nods her head in agreement.
Jai: How is Mausi doing at home?
Bani: ... Woh-- Mausi is perfectly fine... she is enjoying herself....
Jai:... You spend a lot of time with her throughout the day?
Bani quietly nods her head again. Jai lightly smiles at this.
Jai: I never got to thank you... for taking care of her while she was ill....
Bani: ...Mr. Walia, aap please mujhe embarrass maat keejiye... Mausi meri Ma jaise hai... joh kuch maine kiya--- woh maine meri Ma kiliye kiya.... (trans: Mr. Walia, please don't embarrass me... Mausi is like my mother... whatever I did- I did for my mother...)
Jai: (sincerely) Phir bhi... Thank you, Bani.
Bani looks down at her empty plate and tucks a strand of her behind her ear, feeling a little uncomfortable. Jai smiles to himself, pleased with knowing how much Bani cares and loves his Mausi. They continue to talk for awhile, just casual talk.... trying to fill up the silence between them. Luckily their dinner finally arrives and both become occupied by eating. Bani doesn't eat much, not knowing how to with Jai's presence and when she's so lost and confused. She quietly watches him eat his own meal in a daze. In her mind she battles with ideas as to why there is such a sudden change of behavior from him.....
Jai glances up in between eating his meal and keeps his eyes fixed on Bani's troubled looking face. He puts his fork and knife down and wipes his mouth with the napkin beside him.
Jai: Bani, what's wrong? .... You've barely touched your food.
Bani: (snaps out of it, meets his eyes) Ji? .... Woh... nahi... kuch nahi.... (trans: No...nothing...)
She grips onto her utensils and begins cutting a piece of her food. Slowly she places it in her mouth and chews. Jai lifts his glass of water and drinks it, examining Bani carefully as he does this. Bani eats carelessly, still trapped into her thoughts. Jai places his glass back down.
Jai: (genuinely concern) Bani, tum teek to hai, haina? (trans: Bani, you're alright, aren't you?)
Bani: Ji?....Ji, main teek hoon.... (trans: Yes?... Yes, I'm alright...)
Jai: Are you sure? ... Bolo Bani, you can tell me. ... Kya hua? (trans: What happened?)
Bani gently lowers her utensils down onto her plate and stares back at him, looking clueless. Not able to contain it inside of her for any longer, she voices her thoughts....
Bani: (innocently) ...Mr. Walia... Hum yahan kyon aaye hai? (trans: Mr. Walia... why have we come here?)
Jai: (taken aback by her question) ... For Dinner of course....
Bani: (shaking her head)... Mr. Walia, forgive me for saying this--- paar aap saach mein mujhe yahan laakare Dinner kaarne chaate ho? (trans: --- but have you really brought me here to have Dinner?) Hum Dinner to ghar bhi kaarsakte.... (trans: We can also have Dinner at home.)
Jai, nervous with the approaching topic, tugs on his tie loosing it a bit and straightens up in his seat.
Jai: Hain... hum kaarsakte the... but I need you alone... not with everyone else around. (confesses)
Bani: (surprised, nervous) J-ji?
Jai: (urging himself to continue) Hain.... Bani... I've been meaning to talk to you for a couple of days now.... but have never gotten a chance to with everyone constantly around and me being preoccupied with work. So to get you alone, I planned this Dinner.
Seeing Bani look uncomfortable by this, Jai reaches over the table and places his hand comfortingly over hers.
Jai: Let me explain.....
Bani meets his eyes as she feels the contact of his warm hand on hers. She feels something inside of her flutter and blushes a light shade of pink. She's too scared to move her hand so lets it be covered by his, awkwardly.
Jai: Bani....
He says in his deep manly voice as he brushes his thumb soothingly against her hand, building knots in Bani's stomach.
Jai: It's... it's been more than two months since we've been married.... and during that time---... I wasn't very humane towards you.... in fact I was cruel, harsh, and a very despicable person. I dropped so low to do anything just to get back at you.... to hurt you.
Jai lets his words linger for a moment and watches as Bani focuses her gaze on him, her full attention now on him and not trying to avoid his eyes like usual. He watches how she bares a blank expression on her face, probably not understanding how to react to his sudden words....
Jai: I did so much to hurt you... and yet, you never complained.... not one word came from you mouth. You just took it all quietly....tolerated it all..... (pausing for a moment) I'm ashamed of myself... for putting you through all of that trouble..... for bringing tears into your eyes numerous of times.... but most of all, for inflicting pain onto a wonderful woman as yourself. ... who was innocent from the very beginning...
Bani feels something inside of her sink and her heart begin to ache terribly from being mentioned of all of her wounds given by him. She looks down away from him, not able to stare at him any longer. Forming tears sting her eyes.... She couldn't believe that this was happening. Is it possible that she could be hallucinating? Maybe she's just hearing him wrong... Perhaps she's just dreaming this all?
Jai continues on, knowing that if he doesn't get this guilt out of him now, he may never again gain enough courage to apologize to Bani... or even look at her the same.
Jai: Bani.... when I read that letter from Pia.... I was completely shaken up... The woman who I thought I loved and the man who I had accepted as my brother both deceived me and left like a bunch of cowards.... without even explaining anything to me and on my wedding day, embarrassing me in front of the whole Mumbai society.... and then when I saw you, anger just grew inside of me.... seeing you was like a horrible reminder of what Pia and Pushkar had done to me.... their betrayal. --- You three sisters were close.... I knew of that. I also knew that you three never kept anything away from each other.... with that thought in mind, I became angry assuming that you knew of Pia and Pushkar the whole time... you, a person who I completely held trust in.... But I should had known at the time that you were sick worrying over Pia.... and that you were oblivious to everything as was I... I should had seen the hurt you were experiencing... but I was so blinded with my anger and plans of revenge that I simply looked past it.... and your innocence which everyone could see but me.
Jai: If only I had realized it all before, then you wouldn't have to go through what I put on you because of my hurt ego.... I wouldn't had behaved so inappropriately and uncivilized.... Bani, what have I not done to cause pain to you? --- Not only did I constantly put you down, but I even went as far as destroying your own home.... which I know what value it holds to you...
Jai grips tighter onto Bani's hand as she continues to keep her head bent down....
Jai: I have finally come to my senses.... I can see your innocence....your honesty...the truth.... Bani, if you can find it in your heart to forgive me..... to accept my apology for everything that I have done to you.... it will help me feel better knowing that you do not hold a grudge against me.... please lift off this burden of guilt from me... Please forgive me... I'm so sorry, Bani.... So terribly sorry....
Jai: This is the reason behind our Dinner... I just wanted to apologize to you alone.
He watches her closely with desperate eyes and becomes anxious as he sees no type of reaction from her... not even one single word... She keeps her head down, which worries him.
Jai: (nervous) Bani???
Jai is startled when he feels Bani slip her hand hastily out of his and cover her mouth with both trembling hands. He sees her shake her head, probably from disbelief, and finally glance back up at him... showing him the rapid tears falling down from her eyes. She weeps into her hands, not caring anymore that she's crying right in front of him and in a restaurant where any waiter can come and see....
Jai, acting quickly, gets out from his seat and kneels down next to Bani's chair. He looks at her with concern....
Jai: Bani?... Bani, yeh aansoon? .... Why these tears?... Did I say anything wrong?
He takes both of her hands away from her mouth, holding them both in his hands, and momentarily looks at her quivering lips as she continues to sob before him. The tears don't stop and proceed to roll down from her welling eyes. Bani closes her eyes tight and bows her head down.... she shakes her head in a negative, answering his question.
Jai: Then what is it? (calm with her) ..... Please tell me.... I can't tolerate seeing you cry anymore... especially become of me.
This only causes her to let out another sob. She struggles to let her hands out of his, but Jai holds onto them firmly. Lifting a hand up to her face, Jai cups one side of it and wipes away the tears with his thumb. He lowers it back down and then uses his other hand, wiping away the tear drops from the other side, but it's to no use because Bani will not stop crying.
Jai: Bani, please look at me....
Hesitantly Bani opens her eyes and stares into his surprisingly gentle looking ones. The icy cold look that she usually would finds in them no longer exists and instead she sees a type of warmth in them. She doesn't move her eyes away from his......
Jai: (gentle with her) Don't cry.... I didn't mean to make you.... that's the last thing I want to see now...
Bani: (quivering voice)... This isn't a joke, is it?
Jai: (startled) No... of course not. (defensive) Honest to God Bani, I have realized my crime for not believing in you...
Bani: I can't tolerate anymore of your tricks, Mr. Walia... (sounding tired)
Jai wipes another rolling tear and whispers to her in a promising tone....
Jai: There are no more tricks from here on out..... I won't even dare to think about hurting you again.
Bani watches him silently as if she were examining him. She then breaks into another fit of tears and surprises Jai by throwing her arms around him, gripping onto him tightly. Jai is thrown off by this and has to balance him self. After a couple of seconds of bewilderment he recovers and embraces her with his arms, hugging her back. Bani cries into the crook of his neck and grips onto his collar. He sways her a little, trying to comfort her.....
After long moments pass by, Bani's crying begins to subside. She has relaxed completely against him and lets Jai stroke her hair as she rests her head against his chest. She feels safe and protected in his arms.... as if no harm can come upon her....
Jai: (finally speaking) Can we start from the very beginning?
Bani: .... (not understanding) What do you mean?
Jai: What I mean is... can we start all over... back to when we were friends?
Bani can't help but smile faintly.....
Bani: Mr. Walia, ...we shared more of a professional relationship rather than friendship.
Jai: (blunt) Then I'd like for us to be friends.... Would you like that?
Jai feels her nod her head in agreement. A comforting silence passes by which Jai cuts short by speaking suddenly.
Jai: .... Bani.....
Bani: Ji?
Jai: .... You have forgiven me.... haven't you?
He worries when he hears no automatic reply from her. She takes awhile in answering....
Bani: When you haven't done anything wrong.... then why should I forgive you?
Jai: But Bani... how can you say that and pretend like I didn't do anything at all?
Bani: ... Main maanti hoon... ke aapne mujhe baut dhook diye... paar maine aapko phele se maaf kiya tha... (trans: I agree that you have given me a lot of hurt... but I had forgiven you from way before.)
Jai feels his heart soar from happiness and relief.
Jai: You have a very big heart, Bani.... If it were me, I'd probably never have forgiven you....
Bani: A man who has realized his mistake... should be given a second chance....
Jai holds Bani from both of her arms and pushes her back. He stares at her puzzled face....
Jai: Thank you... thank you so much.
Bani just smiles lightly and looks down shyly. At that precise moment, the soft rhythmic music changes into a slow romantic song, the volume increased. Both Jai and Bani look behind them and see one of the employees just leaving the room. Jai looks down at his watch and sees that this was the exact time that he instructed that he wanted music that him and Bani could dance to. Jai stares back over to Bani, who also brings her eyes to him. He smiles friendly to her and stands up. Extending a hand over to her, Jai grins cutely at her as he asks, "Want to dance?"
Without even giving it a moment of thought, Bani gladly puts her hand into his and lets herself be lead by him to the small dance floor nearby the open garden doors. Her heart races as he turns around and grins handsomely at her. Placing a hand on her waist and holding onto her other hand, Jai feels Bani place her hand on his shoulder as a response. Jai gracefully leads her into the slow dance.... Together they dance to the lyrics.
Tere bin main yun kaise jiya
Kaise jiya tere bin........
Tere bin main yun kaise jiya
Kaise jiya tere bin......
Lekar yaad teri raaten meri kati
Lekar yaad teri raaten meri kati.....
They stare into each other's eyes, completely losing themselves to one another-- seeming as if they are under a binding magical spell....
Mujhse baaten teri karti hai chaandani
Tanha hai tujh bin raaten meri
Din mere din ke jaise nahi...
Jai twirls her around once and holds her back in place, leading her in beat with the song.
Tanha badan tanha hai ruh nam meri aankhen rahe
Aaja mere ab rubaru
Jeena nahi bin tere....
Jai sways her around, bringing her out of his arms and then pulling her back in, earning himself a beautiful smile from her lips.
Tere bin main yun kaise jiya
Kaise jiya tere bin....
Tere bin main yun kaise jiya
Kaise jiya tere bin.......
Kabse aankhen meri raah mein tere bichhi
Kabse aankhen meri raah mein tere bichi......
Their eyes meet once again. Bani stares at him, completely hypnotized by his charm. Her insides slowly start to melt.... Jai also doesn't take his gaze off of her, grinning cutely at her.
Bhule se hi kahi tu mil jaaye kabhi
Bhule na mujhse baaten teri
Bheegi hai har pal aankhen meri
Jai twirls her around once again and slowly stops her by bringing her back against his chest, wrapping his arms around her stomach. Bani flushes as she feels his breath on her neck.
Kyun saans loon kyun main jiyu
Jeena bura sa lage
Kyun ho gaya tu bewafaaa mujhko bata de wajah......
Jai turns her back around swiftly and protectively holds her by her waist with both hands. Bani looks at him shyly, yet can't seem to wipe off the smile from her face....
Tere bin main yun kaise jiya
Kaise jiya tere bin ...
Tere bin main yun kaise jiya
Kaise jiya tere bin ...
Tere Bin...
Tere Bin..
Tere Binnn...Kaise jiya.....
The two danced away the night, drinking one another in... Forgetting everything else and only focusing on themselves. They happily danced together, bringing in some fun into it with lots of twirling and swaying, making Bani giggle plenty of times pleasing Jai a whole lot. Just in one night they perfectly bonded well with each other.... forming a start of a deep meaningful friendship.... which may possibly even lead to the beginning of a beautiful romancing love......
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CHAPTER 20
Mausi: Arre, tum dono aagaye? (trans: Arre, you two are here?)
Jai and Bani both stop in their tracks and look behind them at the living room where Mausi and Rano sit together on the couch, looking at them. They both are surprised to see them there. Since it was around 10 O'clock they were pretty sure and hoping that everyone was asleep by the time they got back home. Jai and Bani watch as Mausi gets up from the couch and walks over to them, Rano following behind.
Mausi: Dinner kaisa tha? (trans: How was Dinner?) You two enjoyed yourselves, haina?
Bani casts Jai a quick sideway glance and smiles shyly after looking away.
Jai: Ji Mausi. We did.
Mausi: Hmmm… (teasingly) I can see that by the way Bani is blushing and smiling. Kyon, Bahu?
Bani blushes even more out of embarrassment on being caught as Jai curiously looks over to her, along with Rano. All three of them smile at this while she begins to stammer nervously…
Bani: Ma-mausi, it's really late… I'm going to go on and sleep.
Is all that she says before running off in the other direction towards the stairs without waiting for a reply. Mausi chuckles at this.
Jai: (running a hand through his hair) Mausi, what are you doing up so late at night? You should be sleeping… and you too Rano.
Mausi: I couldn't sleep until I knew you both safely came home… and Rano here was just giving me company… but now that you two are here I think I will go on and sleep. I will see you in the morning you two. Goodnight and sweet dreams.
Jai and Rano: Goodnight, Mausi.
Rano and Jai watch Mausi slowly disappear from sight. Jai glances back curiously at an excited looking Rano, who practically is jumping up and down.
Jai: So Rano ji… what is the real reason you are up this late?
Rano: (defensively) What do you mean? I was just giving poor Mausi some company….
Jai: Giving her company… or just wanting to know how everything went? (eyeing her)
Rano cracks under his suspicious gaze.
Rano: Mr. Walia, it is very difficult to hide anything from you…
Jai smiles at this, pleased with the comment.
Rano: So…. did everything work out for you? Did Bani didi like the dinner? Did you tell her? Did she forgive you? Bolo nah, Mr. Walia, I can't wait any longer. (whining like a child)
Jai bursts out into laughter at this and brings Rano into a brotherly hug, startling Rano a whole lot.
Jai: Everything went perfectly…. You don't worry your pretty little head about it anymore. Your Didi enjoyed the dinner and even as forgiven me…. Rano, I am so happy… I don't think I have ever been so happy in my life before.
Rano smiles lightly at this and finally hugs her brother-in-law back, feeling very delighted on hearing this.
Rano: I'm so relieved that everything went well…..
Jai pulls away and affectionately ruffles Rano's hair, earning himself a goofy smile from her.
Jai: Now go to sleep.. It's late… you've got classes tomorrow, don't you?
Rano nods her head in agreement.
Jai: Then you better get yourself some sleep…
She gives him a soft smile before wishing him goodnight and leaving to her own room.
Rano: Goodnight Mr. Walia.
Jai: Goodnight Rano.
Rano wanders off to her room with a bright smile playing on her lips. She was elated--- extremely happy by seeing this whole different side of Jai Walia and even more happy with the fact that a quick comfortable bond is growing between them…..
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Just as Bani comes out of the bathroom dressed in her black nightdress, she sees the bedroom door open and Jai enter into the room. They meet each other's gaze and smile lightly at one another. Jai closes the door shut as Bani walks over to his wardrobe, taking out his night suit. Turning around after locking the door, Jai finds Bani extending his clothes to him politely. Smiling gratefully at her, Jai walks over and takes it.
Jai: Thanks.
Bani quietly watches him go into the bathroom to change. She hangs her saree neatly onto a hanger and places it into her wardrobe. Then as she puts her jewelry away, the bathroom door opens and Jai steps out dressed in his nightwear. He walks over to the bed and sits down on his side. He takes out his phone and goes through it, checking for missed calls. Bani sees this and smiles faintly. It is a regular habit of his before going to sleep. As she finishes she also goes over to their bed and lays down on her respectful side.
Seeing Bani's lamp go off, Jai looks over and sees her already laying down, ready to sleep. He puts his phone aside and gets into bed, turning his lamp off as he does this. The whole room becomes dark with the exception of the dim lighting coming from the full moon providing Jai and Bani to see each other clearly. They awkwardly look at one another and can't help but smile again….
Jai: (laughing smile) Goodnight, Bani….
Bani: (shyly) Goodnight.
Thick silence builds between them once they turn their backs on one another. Bani grips tight onto the edge of her pillow and is finding it hard to wipe off the silly smile from her face. The same is the case for Jai who grins like mad and isn't able to stop. Dinner was absolutely lovely… Sure it was awkward at first but afterwards they danced, talked, and easily goofed off together. It was surprising how well they got along. Jai couldn't remember the last time he enjoyed someone's company so much. He shuts his eyes and easily relaxes…. The guilt was gone…. he can finally sleep in peace.
Bani had no idea what had made Jai realize everything all of a sudden. It was completely unexpected, but she could care less… The hatred is gone and she is happy for that. Everything is alright now…..
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Around 8 o'clock in the morning, Jai wakes up from a deep slumber and glances over to the left side of the bed and finds it empty, like usual. He searches around the room for any sign of his wife. Seeing her no where and hearing no noise coming from the bathroom, he guesses that she is downstairs making Breakfast along with Mausi. Feeling tired yet strangely happy in a way, Jai throws the covers off of him and stands up from the bed. He walks towards the bathroom, wanting to get ready right away.
As he approaches the door he reaches out to grip onto the doorknob, but sees it moving and seconds later the door swinging wide open. Bani stands before him looking radiantly beautiful in a flattering dark red saree with gold works on it. He watches as she runs a hand through her long wet hair, and then look up--- finally noticing him in front of her. Startled, she stops in her tracks and continues to stare up at him. Slowly she smiles softly…
Bani: Good morning Mr. Walia.
Jai: Good morning….
Knowing that he wants to get into the bathroom to get ready for work, Bani goes off to the left side to get past him, but is once again startled to see him do the exact same thing. Jai was thinking of passing by Bani to get into the bathroom, but is taken aback to see her also move to the left, blocking his way. They look at each other and on instinct move to the right, once again blocking each other's way. Bani, getting a little flustered, takes her eyes off of him and tries moving back over to the left to let him in, but Jai also moves over to the same side, thinking the exact same. Again their eyes connect and they look at one another for a good few seconds before breaking out into laughter at the situation they are in--- a situation that they have once before have been in. Jai sticks to one side and indicates with his teasing eyes to the open area beside him, enough room for her to leave. Smiling at this, Bani successfully passes by him as Jai walks into the bathroom with a huge grin on his face……
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Jigyasa examines her brother and sister-in-law carefully with curious eyes. She doesn't seem to understand where the thick tension that existed between them has gone all of a sudden. She becomes sick as she sees them smiling again to themselves. It was disgusting… What is wrong with her Jai Bhaiya? Why is he behaving this way with Bani? Why in God's name are they smiling like idiots? What could have possibly happen at that dinner last night that has made her brother into a complete different person? This can't be happening… Jigyasa can't let this happen… She won't allow that low-classed little girl rule over her brother. Thinking this, Jigyasa grumpily eats her food in a foul mood…..
Mausi: Munna?
Jai glances up from his plate of food and instead looks at Mausi, giving her a polite smile and his full attention.
Jai: Ji Mausi?
Mausi: Munna… why don't we go and visit the Farmhouse today? I have been wanting to go for a very long time and today seems like a good day to go.
Jai: (puzzled) Mausi, today?--- But this is too last minute.
Dadi: Arre Jai Puttar, tumne kaha tha nah-- that once you and Bani come back from Goa that we all as a family would go the Farmhouse. Tumne promise kiya tha, beta. (trans: You promised.)
Jai: Yes, I agree that I promised--- but today? I mean can't we wait another day and plan it all out?
Mausi: I have already asked everyone and they all said that today and tomorrow is probably the only time they will be free. Aditya told me that the office work isn't too bad and you two can afford to miss a day or two from work.
Jai glares at Aditya, who looks the other way--- clearly avoiding his gaze.
Dadi: Hain kahdo nah Puttar. (trans: Say yes, son.) Even I am restless to go back to the Farmhouse.
Jai stares back over at Dadi and Mausi who wear pleading looks on their faces. Not having the heart to say no, he nods his head in agreement.
Jai: Alright… I will just go and call the office to tell them I won't be coming in today.
Wide smiles emerge on both of the elderly women's faces while everyone else groans, whereas Rano and Bani just give each other side way glances seeming puzzled……
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Jigyasa: I refuse to be in the same car with that man!
Jigyasa growls as she sees Aditya get inside of the driver's seat with Mausi and Dadi sitting in the back. Aditya, finding this amusing, grins widely.
Aditya: Of course, because I have a reputation to bite, don't I Jigyasa? (winks)
Jigyasa scowls at this while Mausi and Dadi laugh. It was always fun watching the two divorcees fighting with one another, especially more hilarious when Aditya fools and teases his ex-wife. Jigaysa crosses her arms and looks the other way.
Jigyasa: I will go with Jai Bhaiya then.
Mausi: Arre nahi Jigyasa, don't be stubborn beti. Come and sit with me. Beji will sit in the front, won't you Beji?
Dadi: Hain hain, kyun nahi? I'll do anything to satisfy my ex-Bahu.
Jigyasa's face turns red on this comment, but not from blushing-- but from fury. She watches with angry eyes as Dadi gets out from the back and moves to the front. Hesitantly and from a lot of persuasion by Mausi, Jigyasa bitterly sits in the back of the car-- regretting her decision a whole lot within a few moments as Aditya starts with his constant teasing and jokes about her.
While there is a feud on that side, on the other side there is…..
Anu: Saahil, you are an idiot! And here I am endangering Rano's and my own life by letting you drive us there!
Saahil steps his foot onto the brake pedal, stopping in the middle of getting out from the driveway, and glares at his sister, who sits besides him in the front.
Saahil: I make one little mistake and you go on fussing!
Anu: Saahil, you practically were about to drive through the mansion a second ago! Can you not tell the difference between reverse and drive?!
Saahil: (mutters) Whatever….
Saahil decreases the pressure from the brake pedal, letting the car slowly reverse, and meets Rano's eyes in the rear view mirror in the process. He winks at her, making Rano grumble and have the desire to puke. She immediately looks out of her window, annoyed, as Saahil chuckles to himself.
Rano sighs a very tired sigh. If she had her way, she would had gone with her sister and brother-in-law, but didn't wish to intrude and wanted to give them some time alone. Therefore she had to practically force herself into sitting in Saahil's car. …..
Anu: Gosh Saahil! How weird can you get? Who laughs to them self!
********************************************************
Jai and Bani sat for about 10 minutes into the drive, really not saying a whole to one another and mostly staying quiet. Jai distracted himself by driving and Bani stared throughout her window at the scenery. He can't help but admit that today his wife looks lovely in a light colored pink saree, causing her skin to seem radiant and glow. Perhaps because of last night's dinner he has started to really like her in pink.
Not liking the silence between them, Jai turns the radio on and whirls the knob around, increasing the stereo's volume. From the corner of his eye he sees Bani jump a little by the unexpected music. She turns and looks at him and then down at the radio.
Jai: Wanted to listen to some music…. I hope you don't mind.
Bani: (kindly) … Not at all.
They together sat listening to the slow songs playing on the radio and are thankful for it filling up the silence between them. Many minutes later the RJ comes back on, speaking with her enthusiastic loud voice. "Okay, now enough with the slow depressing songs…. Here is some good upbeat music to keep you all awake", she says with a laugh. Quickly the song Aaja Nachle plays on the air and the RJ speaks over it, "A tribute to my favorite actress, Madhuri Dixit!".
Mera jhumka utha ke laaya yaar ve
Jo gira tha Bareilly ke bazaar mein
Main to thumka laga ke sharma gayi
Boli ghoom kar bata de ke main aa gayi
Mujhko nacha ke nach le
Aaja nachle nachle mere yaar tu nach le
Jhanak jhanak jhankaar….
Instantly a smile plays on Bani's lip on hearing the song and she once again looks out of the window, going off in a dreamland of hers. Her foot gently taps with the rhythm.
Ho…nachle nachle mera yaar tu nach le
Ab to lutaa hai bazaar
Sub ko Bhula ke nach le
Aaja nachle nachle mera yaar tu nach le
Jhanak jhanak jhankaar….
Jai makes a movement to switch the station, finding the song a little irritating to him-- but immediately stops as he catches Bani softly humming with the music and her right foot tapping along with it. He places his hand back onto the steering wheel and grins at this sight. Amused he silently watches her and lowers the volume a tad down from the control on the wheel. The music slightly goes down and Bani's humming becomes a little more clear. She hums lovely… he wonders how she sounds when she is actually singing.
Suddenly feeling strange, Bani stops her humming and looks to her right, staring right at Jai. She flushes as she realizes that she had just been loudly humming the song a second ago and he most definitely probably heard her.
Jai: I am assuming that you really like this song…
Bani lowers her head down, feeling very embarrassed.
Bani: I'm sorry, I didn't realize that I was---
Jai: No, don't be … I quite enjoyed it.
Bani glances back up and blushes even more by seeing his teasing grin.
Jai: What were you thinking?
Bani: (confused) Ji?
Jai: You obviously weren't aware of your surroundings and too engrossed in your own singing….
Bani: Oh… I … well it just reminded me of my childhood. (shyly says)
Jai raises an eyebrow at this, now very curious about the approaching topic. He would love to know anything about Bani….including her childhood.
Jai: How's that?
Bani becomes silent, feeling too nervous and shy to tell him. Jai catches this and nods his head in understanding.
Jai: It's okay… you don't have to tell me if you don't want to.
He resumes his attention back onto the road in front of him, making Bani think that he has become upset since she did not share her old memories with him. After a few hesitant moments, she speaks…
Bani: Ji woh…. When I was a child… I really enjoyed music and dance. (turning pink) And this song just reminds me of those days….
Jai looks over to her, very intrigued and astonished on hearing this. So his wife is a dancer?….Hmmm, interesting. Who would had guessed?
Jai: …. Why don't you dance anymore? Was it just a phase?
Again he makes Bani silent, making her very nervous by telling him all of this. She didn't even discuss this with her own sisters and friends….and here she is, about to blab on the whole story to Jai Walia.
Bani: …I enjoyed dancing a lot…. It wasn't just a phase. I had been dancing for six years….
She hesitates once again before further going on, but then finds herself slowly get rid of her nervousness and able to tell her husband for some odd reason.
Bani: I wanted to dance as a profession…. But after my mother died and Papa became an alcoholic, I knew I had to do something else to support my family. Which is why I left dance and joined business…..
Jai admires her willing sacrifice. She gave up something that she loved selflessly and supported her family instead. Kind of reminded him of himself….even he had to make plenty of sacrifices to raise his sister.
Jai: Why don't you go back to dancing? … if it's something that you really enjoyed…. After finishing your obligation towards you family, it'd be the only sensible thing.
Bani: (blushing) Ji… that was many years ago… and I have gotten over it… and my sisters still need me even today as much as they needed me before…
Jai nods his head, showing that he understands. He feels a little sympathetic towards his wife. She has done a lot of sacrificing in her life for her family…. He wishes truly from the bottom of his heart that she gets the happiness she deserves.
Slowly the song fades and another song plays instead……
Bedi chalayi leh…
Jigar se piya….
Jigar maabadi aage hai
Bedi chalayi leh jigar so piya
Jigar maabadi aage hai
Wadaa nikari o lab se piya aah aa
Haan beedi chalaiye leh jigar se piya
Jigar maabadi aage hai…..
Jai pauses as he hears the familiar song. The same very song that Bani had danced to in the midst of a crowd, drunk. He has no reason at all to doubt Bani's talent because he had seen it earlier with his own two eyes. And to her defense, she is an amazing dancer…..
Slowly a grin forms on his lips and seconds later he chuckles as that night in Goa crosses his mind. Purple umbrellas….He was going to have to make sure she doesn't drink anymore juice looking drinks with umbrellas in them..
Bani looks extremely puzzled by his sudden laughing.
Bani: (can't help but ask) Mr. Walia, why are you laughing?
Jai glances over to her innocent looking face, which makes him chuckle even more. She was far from innocent… he had learned this personally.
Jai: (trying to recover, stifling his laughs) Nothing Bani… absolutely nothing.
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Hi Dil
ReplyDeleteRead parts 9 to 20 all in one go. Superb writing. I love this progression in JB's relationship.
Thanks for giving me this story.
Love you totally
Archie.