The Start; We are planning to go for a movie on Saturday. How
"
many of you would be interested?" one Thursday end of the day,
our class rep asked this. All of us raised our hands except Nethra.
He said, "Okay, interested people, please bring 120 bucks
tomorrow so we can book the tickets as fast as we can" All of us
tapped our desks with joy. It had been two months since we joined
college and we knew each other in the class by their names and
our friendship' gang started to build up. There was lot of fun during
class and off class hours. All of us started to go out for movies,
restaurants, birthday parties etc, except her.
Nethra used to be alone and aloof always. She used to sit in the
last bench and never spoke with anyone. All the other students
were scared to talk to her as she was grumpy and a cranky person.
She had displayed her anger many a times with other students.
She was good looking but I think she would look beautiful if she
smiled because no one had ever seen her smiling. Her pet name
was "Miss. Long Face". None of us in the class liked her but she
used to do her assignments and record works promptly and had a
good name among the lecturers. She was good at studies too and
class topper while I used to rank from 4 to 7.
One day as usual all the boys in the class were discussing about
the girls in the college; when the topic went on her. One boy said,
"I pity her husband he is gonna have tough time with this girl".
Another boy said, "The person who makes her smile will be an
extraordinarily talented person because she is such a bad tempered
girl" One jumped up and said, "Is there anybody who is ready for a
challenge?" Everyone asked "what will be the challenge and the
bet?" He said, "1000 bugs" "What's the challenge?" everyone
asked. He said, "The challenge is to befriend to Miss. Long face".
Since the bet and challenge was attractive I was interested in
trying it; so I took up the challenge.
I thought of a plan to befriend her and as per my plan I did not
attend the entire day's class the next Monday. On Tuesday when I
went to class I asked my friends, "What were the assignments or
records that were given yesterday?" They said, "The Chemistry
record need to be completed till date and the deadline to submit for
corrections is on Friday" I said, "Oh, just three days for Friday. Has
anybody completed the record?"
They said, "No, not yet. We have lot of experiments pending to be
completed"
I went to her and said, "Hi Nethra"
She was writing something and when she heard me, she raised her
head and looked at me sternly and asked, "What?"
I asked, "Have you completed the chemistry record?"
Sternly she said, "Yes"
I said, "I did not attend the last chemistry class and I heard that
we need to submit the record by this Friday. Nobody else in the
class has completed it so it would be great if you could lend me
your record. I'll return it tomorrow" With lots of hesitation she gave
me the record and in a warning tone she said, "Handle it carefully
and return it tomorrow without fail"
I took the record notebook from her and intentionally left it at
home on the day I promised to return back in order to develop
friendship. I was so impressed by the way she has maintained it.
Her handwriting was beautiful and the highlighting & markings,
presentation of the record was mind blowing. I liked her record and
I liked her too, but she was a mystery. I was curious to find out the
secret behind her callous nature.
On Wednesday she asked me, "Where is my record?
"Your presentation skill is very impressive" I said.
She asked, "Where is my record?"
"I complimented about your record" I said
She said, "I don't need your compliment, I need my record?"
"I didn't complete it yet, shall I give it tomorrow?" I asked
"I need it by tomorrow without fail" furiously she said and turned
to leave my desk.
"Can you remind me in the morning so I won't forget? Please and
this is my number" saying this I wrote my number on a piece of
paper and gave it to her as she was about to leave.
She plucked the paper and walked off rapidly without saying
anything. I knew this was the right way to get her number.
On Thursday morning she called me early in the morning and said,
"Nethra here, called you to remind about the record book" saying
this she disconnected the call.
As soon as I came to the class she asked, "My record book"
I searched my bag and hit my head and said, "Oh I am sorry, it's
not there in my bag, I forgot to bring it. Give me your address
after the class I will bring it to your home"
She said, "I know you'll do like this. Irresponsible fellow, that's why
I hesitated to give it, Okay I will wait near the college entrance in
the evening bring it to the college"
I said, "It will be late and you have to wait for a long time. My
home is far away and it is my fault so I will bring it to your home"
Stubbornly she said the same thing again, "I will wait near the
college entrance till you get it. Around what time will be here?"
I said, "6. 30 pm"
She said, "I'll wait in the library till you reach the college. Once you
reach the college give me a call and then I'll come out"
I said, "Okay, sounds good"
In the evening I reached the college before 6.30 but was hiding
near a tree and was waiting. She called me up at 6.30 but I didn't
answer. About 15 mins later she came out and was waiting near
the entrance. It was around 7.15, I went there and she saw me as
if she's gonna smolder me to flames. "I'm very sorry, I had a flat
tyre and I had to get it fixed and that was the reason for the delay"
saying this I handed over the record book and said, "Thanks a
bunch and I'm extremely sorry for the delay in returning the record
as well as for making you wait for such a long time"
She grabbed the record from me and started walking without
saying anything.
I started my bike and went near her and said, "Come I'll drop you
home, it's dark"
She walked hastily towards an auto rickshaw coming towards us.
She hired the auto rickshaw and got into it. I followed her; after
sometime the auto rickshaw stopped she got down and asked,
"Why are you following me?"
I said, "It is my fault and I'm responsible for your safety, its dark
and the area is lonely; no street lights too. How can I trust a
stranger and send you in an auto rickshaw? Come with me or if you
prefer the auto rickshaw, you can go but I'll follow you till you
reach your place to ensure you reach safely" and smiled.
She went to the auto rickshaw, paid him and came and sat on my
bike. I started the bike and she kept giving me instructions as "left,
right, and straight" she didn't speak anything except this. After 30
mins she said, "Stop" near a ladies hostel. I asked, "Oh you stay in
a hostel, which is your native, where are your parents? As soon as
I stopped she got down and walked off without saying anything.
I went home and told my Mom all that happened today. My Mom
said, "Poor girl, she must be feeling home sick and that's why is
always sad. Food is not good in some hostels and that could also
add up to her sadness"
I said, "Yeah Mom, maybe that's the reason she is always sad.
Mom, please prepare my favorite Poori tomorrow for breakfast and
pack it for her too mom.
She said, "Okay, I'll do it"
The next day I went to her and said, "Hi" and placed the lunch box
in her desk and said, "My mom prepared Poori today; it's my
favorite so I got it for you too. Have it during the break" I didn't
wait for her response and went to my desk.
In the evening I found the box in the place where I placed it, she
didn't take it too. I felt bad, I troubled my Mom and if I take it back
home she'll feel bad too. I didn't want to waste it so I took it home
and put it in the microwave and had it and told my mom what
happened.
She said, "It is okay, never mind, maybe she didn't like poori that's
why she didn't eat" I said, "I think she didn't even open the box
mom". She said, "It's okay, leave it"
I didn't stop bringing food for her from my home. Every day I used
to give her a box. She didn't touch it at all. One day, I checked her
date of birth with the class rep and found that she was a year and
three months younger to me (I missed a year when I was studying
4th standard due to chicken pox) and her birthday is a week
ahead. There was a good practice in our class and it is we used to
collect 25 bucks from everyone in the class every month and
celebrate our classmate's birthday. It was the activity that excited
everyone.
On her birthday, before she could come I placed a gift on her desk.
When she saw the gift she was surprised and was wondering if it
was for her. I went to her desk and said, "Happy birthday. This is
my birthday gift for you"
She didn't even open it but threw it on my desk and saying, I don't
like gifts and I don't have to take anything from you. Being insulted
in front of the class I felt ashamed and walked to my desk. I was
very disappointed by her behavior; yet I couldn't hate her because
I had a soft corner for her. I didn't stop bringing food for her even
after this incident and as usual she did not take it. I liked her but
not her behavior. Though initially it was the challenge that made
me talk to her but now there was an unusual feeling that made me
cling on to her and fight for her friendship.
About a fortnight passed and to my surprise, one day the box I
gave her was empty. I was very happy and asked her if she liked
the food. She said, "Yes, it was nice. Thanks"
The next day during lunch break I asked her, "Shall I join you for
lunch?" She said, "Okay" and we occupied a table. I grabbed her
box and pushed my box to her and said, "Lets exchange our lunch
today" before she could refuse I opened the box and started
eating. You know it was sick and I felt like saying yuck; but since
she'll feel bad I said, "Hmmm tastes good henceforth we'll
exchange our lunch, okay" She didn't say anything but started to
eat.
I asked, "How is it? She said, "Very tasty" I continued, "my mom
prepares tasty food; I love all the dishes she prepares and I asked,
"How about you?" Her face turned pale and few tear droplets fell
from her eyes on the table. She was struggling to pretend as if she
was not crying and without finishing her lunch she left the place. I
thought she was missing her parents and I felt bad that I reminded
her of them.
The boy who placed the bet came and asked, "How did you
befriend her? Oh, I failed the bet"
I said, "Never mind about the bet, I just took it because the
challenge was interesting and not for money"
I went to her desk, returned her lunch box and said, "I'm sorry, I
didn't mean to hurt you"
She said, "It is okay" and started to write some record. I left the
place in dismay.
At home during our dinner I told my mom about her. My dad said,
"Arjun, bring her home one day, poor little girl she must be missing
her parents"
I said, "But she doesn't speak with anyone dad, anyway I'll invite
her"
My dad said, "Invite her for your birthday"
I said, "Hmm, that's a good idea dad" Turning towards my mom I
said, "Mom, her hostel food is sick; please pack an extra box of
lunch for her every day. At least she'll have one good meal a day"
She said, "Okay. Check what she likes, I'll include in the menu and
prepare it frequently"
My parents were my friends and I used to discuss everything with
them; there was nothing that I hid from them. My sister Adithi was
also my best friend. She's studying in the 8th standard and I used
to help her out in her studies, record works, sports, assignments
etc.
As days passed on Nethra and I become friends and we used to
have lunch together every day. I was the only person she would
talk to among all the other students in the class. She never spoke
anything else other than studies. Our 1st semester got over and a
month's winter vacation was announced. Everybody had planned
something or the other for the vacation.
I asked her, "Nethra when are you leaving to your native?"
She said, "I'm gonna stay in the hostel"
Perplexed I asked, "It is a month's vacation and you were feeling
home sick you can spend some time with your parents"
Her face turned gloomy and said, "No, I'm not going" and she left
the place.
I told my Mom about her vacation plans with utter displeasure. She
was shocked but continued to say, "Maybe her parents are busy
with their work or they must be abroad. Anyway your birthday falls
during the vacation; invite her home"
I said, "Okay".
A week later I called her and said, "Tomorrow is my birthday and
we have a small party at our home and I'm inviting you for that. Be
ready by 4.00 pm, I'll come to pick you. Okay, take care, bye" and
hung the phone even before she could refuse or accept.
The next day before I started I called her and informed that I
started. She said, "I'm not coming don't waste your time"
I said, "I started, no excuse. Please be ready"
I reached her hostel and saw her waiting near the hostel gate in a
pink dress and she looked like a fairy. I said, "You are looking like
an angel in this dress"
she smiled and said, "Thanks"
We reached home around 5.15 pm and as soon as my mom saw
her she hugged her and kissed her on her forehead and said,
"Welcome Nethra" and took her inside the house. Adithi and My
dad were sitting on the sofa watching TV. Nethra and my mom sat
on the sofa as well and mom said, "I'm Arjun's mother and you are
looking pretty" I introduced my sister Adithi and my dad. She said,
"Hello" to everyone and somewhat perplexed she asked, "Arjun
said there is a party but there is nobody else here" My mom said,
"It is a small party for the five of us.
Looking at my dad, my mom said, "I'll prepare dinner by the time
you keep playing carom with the kids. Adithi said, "Good idea mom
we are four of us and looking at Nethra she said, "We'll be a team
and dad & Arjun the other team" Saying this she ran to her room
to get the carom board. We played around 3 to 4 sets and we (Dad
& I) made them win most of the games. It was fun.
Nethra and Adithi become friends soon. Adithi took Nethra to her
room to show her teddy bear collections. Her collection had teddies
of all colors and sizes and she had arranged it neatly like a
showroom display. She really gets excited when she has to show
her collection to someone who comes home. Along with the teddies
she had a play station, toys and an amazing collection of photos
that would be interesting to watch.
As they left the place my dad said, "Arjun, I have some important
business mails to respond and will be back in an hour" and left the
hall. I went to my room and switched the system and as I was
browsing, Adithi brought Nethra to my room and said this is Arjun's
room. She looked all around and fixed her eyes on the table where
I had placed her refused birthday gift.
She went near the table and looking at me she asked, "Can I take
it?"
I said, "Yeah, it's for you, you need not ask me you can take it"
She took it and said, "I'm sorry I hurt you very badly that day"
I said, "I was hurt, but it's okay. Please open it and tell me if you
like it"
She opened the wrapper and took out a Peach colored teddy bear;
she became so tensed that she nervously dropped it on the floor
while taking it out of the wrapper. As soon as the teddy hit the
floor a recorded voice said, "Good day, keep smiling" After hearing
that smiling she hugged the teddy and said "Thank you. It's lovely"
I felt so happy and said, "You look beautiful when you smile"
Dinner was ready and my mom called us to the dining table. Before
the dinner I cut the cake. Nethra said, "Happy birthday" and gave
me a pen as birthday gift. After dinner Nethra and I started to her
hostel. There is a beautiful park on the way to her hostel. I asked
her, "What is the in-time deadline in your hostel?"
She said, "9.00 Pm"
I told, "its 8.00 and we still have an hour shall we sit in the park
for some time?"
She said, "Okay"
We sat on a bench in the park and the scene there was beautiful.
Children swinging, running, playing, making noise etc. As we were
watching a child who was running fell on the ground and started
crying. Nethra stood up to help the child and before her the child's
mother reached the child and took him and hugged him and
pacified him.
She said, "The boy is blessed. You're blessed with good parents
too"
I said, "All are blessed with good parents"
She said, "No, there are parents who hate their children"
I asked, "Why would parents hate their children? It is strange and I
can't believe it"
She said, "When the parents hate each other they hate all that
came out of that relationship; it includes children too"
I asked, "Why would they hate each other?"
She said, "Lot of reasons like ego, money, material, extra marital
affairs, misunderstandings, lack of love and affection, hatred etc"
I asked, "How do you know all these things?"
She said, "It was and is a part of my daily life"
I said, "I didn't get you"
She said, "My parents hated each other and kept on fighting all day
long and due to misunderstanding they are living separately for the
past 6 years; after they got estranged my mom is our guardian. My
sister Mithra and I stay in the hostel. They just send us money for
our needs that's it. They call us or visit us very rarely"
Her voice portrayed the pain and grief in her heart. She continued,
"As people say daughters love their fathers and sons love their
mothers, Mithra and I love our dad very much but my mom says
dad is bad and we should not talk with him. We called him secretly
many a times and begged him to come and visit us. He didn't turn
up even once till I joined the college. We hated him for that but
still deep down my heart longs and yearns to see him even now.
He addresses me as "Neethu" and sometimes in my dream I hear
him call me. When I wake up I find myself alone and cry sorely
without a soul to console me"
She asked me, "Arjun, Do you know what the most shameful thing
on earth is?"
Not Knowing what to reply I asked, "What?"
She said, "Meeting your dad in the bus stand, street corners,
shopping malls, restaurants etc. People give us a weird look and
it's so awkward for loved ones to meet like that"
I interrupted and as asked, "Why can't you meet him in the
hostel?"
She said, "The hostel's visitor timings does not suit his work timing
and so he asks us to come to a common place. You know what, my
dad does not know my 10th scores too, it was 90% and everyone
but my parents congratulated me.
She asked me, "Do you know why I behaved so badly on my
birthday?"
I shook my heads and said, "No idea"
Hugging and caressing the teddy she said, "It's the dark day in my
life. I regret being born on this earth. I haven't celebrated even a
single birthday in my life. My parents are too busy quarrelling with
each other that they forget our birthdays. This year on my
birthday, I called my dad but he forgot it was my birthday and just
enquired about my health and studies and disconnected the call.
I felt bad that's why I behaved badly with you. Later I regretted for
my behavior but of no use. My parents are good people individually
but when they are together no one can be as bad as them. (Her
eyes dampened with tears but she pretended as if she was not
crying and said)Arjun, after seeing your parents I long for such
parents. You are truly blessed. I am not as fortunate as you are"
I felt very bad and said, "I'm sorry, don't feel bad. Shall I do what
my dad does when I'm depressed?"
She just looked at me without a clue.
I wrapped my arms around her shoulder, pated her softly and said,
"It's alright, everything's gonna be fine soon, cheer up" as soon as
I told this she leant on my shoulders and started to weep. I
continued, "I know it comforts and consoles. It's alright Nethra,
everything's gonna be fine soon. It's time up. Let's move"
We started from the park; on the way she said, "I feel so relaxed &
light since I emptied myself of this burden that had controlled me
for so long. Thanks. But I think I spoiled your day with my stories"
I said, "You were always aloof and I knew there's something wrong
with you. That's why when everyone in the class hesitated to talk
to you, I kept on coming back even after you insulting me. I feel
happy that you trusted me and let out your frustrations. Life will be
good Nethra, don't worry. You can come home anytime you want.
Just buzz me, I'll come and pick you"
We reached her hostel. She smiled and said, "Thanks a lot. Bye.
Thanks again for this lovely gift, what shall we christen her?"
I asked, "What name you like?"
She said, "Shall we call her Cuckoo?"
I said, "oh lovely name, good choice. Bye Nethra, bye cuckoo"
She patted cuckoo on her back and the recorded voice said, "Good
day keep smiling" she smiled, waved her hands and cuckoo's hands
together and said "bye Arjun" and left the place.
She walked lightly like a butterfly but I felt heavy like, like hmmm I
really don't know what to compare to this burden to. My heart was
so heavy and I realized the mystery behind her sadness is her
separated parents. Poor little girl she has so much of pain.
On this birthday I learnt a few valuable lessons of life - the value of
a family, the need for love and people to share it, the importance
of understanding, love and affection of parents and most important
lesson is not to tease people with abnormal nature and
characteristics. Some people are abnormal due to some medical
condition or psychological factors. I took an oath I'll never tease or
mock my fellow beings but to treat them with respect and dignity.
As soon as I reached home I went and hugged my dad and told
what happened. As usual my dad wrapped his arms around my
shoulder and said, "It's alright dear. Everything will be fine with her
soon" My mom was also there, listening to what I said and she
said, "Poor girl, that's why she was sad. Till the vacation is over
bring her home daily, she might feel bored in the hostel"
The next three weeks she came daily to my home and I could feel
the change and happiness in her. Adithi, Nethra and I used to play
video games, chess, carom, shuttle cork and watch movies. We
had nice time together. One day we were watching a movie with
my Mom after lunch and there was a rape scene in the movie and
the sound effects made the screaming of the girl a terrible one to
listen.
Nethra started to shiver and sweat a lot. Adithi screamed, "Mom,
look at Nethra, she is shivering" My Mom switched off the TV
immediately and made her relax and she asked her to take rest.
Nethra stayed in Adithi's room and my Mom took care of her. My
Mom did not allow her to go to the hostel; hence she stayed with
us that day.
After this incident Nethra and my mom become very close. She
came to my house without my help. One day there was a mangal
sutra sentiment scene in a movie that we were watching. Nethra
asked my Mom pointing her mangal sutra, "Aunty, what does this
mean to you?"
My mom thought for a while and said, "I haven't thought about
what it means to me at all. I can't say anything more than this.
Okay, what does this mean to you?"
She said, "Precious metal, beads and stones beautifully made and
neatly arranged in a thread or a metal"
My mom asked, "That's it"
She said, "Yes aunty, how can a metal bind two hearts? I wonder
how people are clinging on to a relationship just by a thread. Is
yours a love marriage or an arranged marriage?"
My Mom said, "Let me see if you'll say the same thing when you
have one. Ours is an arranged marriage"
She said, "My parent's marriage is a love marriage. I really can't
figure out how people with love marriages break and people in
arranged marriages stay together. A stratagem cannot be defined
as both the marriages work out and breaks out too. I'm not gonna
get married at all. It doesn't make any sense to me. Moreover
with these kinds of parents and family situation no one is there to
think about it or put in efforts to organize one. Marriage is a mirage
to me"
My Mom said, "I'll do it for you. I'll find a perfect groom for you.
Don't worry okay, just concentrate on your studies alone leaving all
these thoughts apart. You know we had misunderstandings and
quarrels too. But after every misunderstanding we used to talk
about it and took efforts to understand each other. The doctors and
psychology counselors say that it takes a minimum of three years
for a couple to understand each other. We need to be patient and
have an open mind to accept others with their flaws and before that I need to clarify certain things with you"
imperfection as we have our own flaws"
I asked, "What is it?"
College reopened and we became close friends, I would miss her if
she doesn't turn up to class even for a single day. We spent the She said, "She attempted suicide because of vexation as her
weekends together studying, playing, watching movies etc. Though parents have applied for Divorce and her father is getting married
we're good friends she doesn't talk much and is always reserved. to someone else after the divorce. An insecure thought of their
lives and future had made her depressed and has been troubling
Days went like this we progressed to the second year of the her. That's why she had decided to end her life"
college. One evening I received a call from her mobile saying that
she had fallen unconscious in the hostel room and is admitted in I asked, "Mom anyway they are not together and the divorce is not
the hospital. I got the details and went to the hospital with my going to change anything. She could have told me Mom. Death is
Mother. The hostel warden told me that her mobile had only my not a solution"
number in the contacts and that's why she called me and I was
shocked to know that she had attempted suicide and her condition Mom said, "When you are depressed you won't be able to think and
is critical. decide wisely. Do you know she hates men? She is friendly with
you because you care for her; respected her as a human being
About an hour later the doctor called us and said that, "She has ignoring her callous nature and grumpiness"
swallowed a heavy dosage of pills. But she is being treated and is
safe now. This might her affect her intestines; hence she needs to I asked, "What's the reason to hate men in particular?"
be under low fat and non-spicy diet for some time. Please come for
review after two day" We went to her room she was awake and Mom said, "Do you remember one day when we were watching a
lying on the bed. As soon as she saw us tears flooded from her movie she became nervous and started to shiver"
eyes and she turned her face from us.
I said, "Yes, I do remember"
My mom went near her and asked how she is feeling and if she
Mom said, "Taking advantage of her family situation one of her
wants something to drink or eat. She said, "No. Just leave me to
relative had been sexually harassing her for some time since she
starve and die" My mom said, "Calm down Nethra, calm down.
was thirteen years old. This has affected her psychologically; it's
Everything will be alright soon" I was very angry with her and
kind of a mental disorder. If she comes across such situations or
hated her that moment as she didn't tell me what's troubling her.
thinks about it or if she sees something that reminds her of that
I yelled at her asking "why you did this?" Sobbing and with anger she becomes nervous"
she asked, "Why should I live, nobody wants me and for whom
I said, "Mom, it's shocking. How could life be so cruel on somebody
should I live?" Her response kindled my anger even more; I
who is helpless?"
become wild and raised my hands to slap her but I was shaken by
my mom's voice as she called out "Arjun" controlling myself,
Mom said, "Life is like that. She wants to be happy, move around
heartlessly I yelled, "For me you idiot, for me" Astonished, she and
with friends and lead a normal life like other girls of her age but
my mother looked at me.
this incident makes her not to trust anyone and she thinks
grumpiness and loneliness is a shield to protect her. She is very
Sternly I continued, "You have become a part of my life. I want
timid in nature and fears about life but she portrays herself as a
you near me always. I don't think of myself or anything else but I
bold and stern person. Now Arjun, tell me are you patient and
think of you and you alone all the time. I don't know if I love you
matured enough to handle a wife like her?"
or not. If this is love then I love you. If I say its love you, I don't
know if I'm seriously in love with you or not; but one thing for sure
I said, "More than I know myself you know me better; you tell me
is I cannot live without you" Saying this I left the room unable to
mom will I be able to handle this?"
face both of them. Little later my mom came out and said, finish
the discharge formalities let's take her home. Mom said, "I don't know, but my advice for you is to stay calm and
make her feel comfortable with you. Make her trust you and love
We went home. She was resting in Adithi's room and my mom
you. Love cures and pacifies. You will have to be patient till that.
gave her some food as per the physician's instructions. Nethra
It'll take time for her to develop confidence in you. Love is not the
requested us not to inform her parents as they would just come
relationship of two bodies. It's the bonding between the hearts &
and rebuke her. This will add to her pain and in no way will give
minds of two individuals that lasts forever.
her relief or change the situation. Later, my mom came to my
room and said, "I wanna have a word with you" If you really love her as much as you portray, you've got to give
her some time. I'm really concerned Arjun, she is not mentally
I said, "Yes mom, what's it about?"
sound right now and may not give in to your urge for physical
intimacy. This might frustrate you to the extent of giving up your
She said, "It's about Nethra"
relationship leading to divorce or separation.
I said, "Mom I'm really sorry, actually I was very angry with her
She attempted suicide because she didn't like her parents' divorce
and I don't know how I spoke all that. Maybe because of anger"
and just imagine her mental agony if she has to sail in the same
She said, "There is nothing to feel sorry about. I knew you were in boat. Take time, think and tell me. Are you gonna take her as your
love with her and I also knew that you didn't realize its love. She is wife or are you gonna give up your love for the pleasure of physical
not a bad choice to regret; she is like this because of some bad relationship?"
incidents that happened in the past; she is also a girl, a human
Mom paused for a moment and continued, "If you are going for the
being who is deeply in need of love that was denied by her
first choice I'll talk to dad and at the right time we will talk to her
heartless parents. I'll talk to dad about this if you are serious but
mother or father"
I said, "Mom, there is no need to think I have made up my mind,
It's now I love her more. I wanna go for the first option. I wanna
take her as my wife, I know her heart is bruised; I wanna heal her
hurting and relive her from her pains. It's no fault of hers mom. I
don't know if she will ever open up or mingle with anyone like she
did with us and vice versa if others would be able to understand
her pain and grief or not. I want to be by her side always mom"
Mom said, "Don't be hasty in deciding. It's easy to say but
practically it's difficult. As a mother I wanna see my grandchildren.
When I know the chances are very less, how do you think I'll
accept to it?"
I said, "Mom, It's not a decision in haste. I'll stand firm and stick
on to it come what may. To fulfill your wish we can adopt children
and if you want grandchildren in your genes, technology has
advanced to great extent in the medical field. I don't wanna quit
her for a silly reason mom"
Mom said, "Good, I appreciate your decision but time alone will
reveal the zeal of your love. All that we discussed should be
between you and me. You should never discuss this with anyone
especially Nethra and embarrass her at any point of time in your
life"
I said, "I swear, I'll not discuss this with anyone"
Mom said, "We'll talk about it later. Don't trouble her asking
anything. Okay" saying this she walked to the door and before she
could leave, naughtily smiling she said, "I have never come across
such a worst and wild proposal ever in my life"
After the discussion I was thinking about it and I felt pity for her. I
decided, I should provide her a good life and replenish all the
happiness and love that she lost all these years.
I went Adithi's room to see her. Adithi and Nethra were playing
chess. I pulled up a chair and sat next to Adithi and said, "Hi
Nethra, how are you feeling?"
She said, "Better"
I said, "Please don't ever try to do like this again what so ever. I
know you're grieving and your heart is bleeding but death is not a
solution for anything. I just thought what if your attempt had
succeeded. The thought of losing you made me wild and that's why
I behaved badly. I didn't mean to hurt you but I meant what I said.
I'm very sorry if it had hurt you in anyway"
She didn't say anything but silence. I asked, "Shall we go out for a
drive and get some fresh air?
Adithi said, "Okay, let's go to ice cream parlor I need triple sundae.
What do you want Nethra?"
I said, "Let me check with mom if I can take you out and if you can
have ice creams"
I asked my mom and she said, "Okay do not buy Nethra a sundae
but maybe a scoop if she can take it. Don't stay out for a long
time. Come back soon" Adithi, Nethra and I went to the nearby
park and were watching the people around, the children playing
etc. A swing was free and Adithi said, "I wanna swing" and ran to
the swing.
Nethra and I were sitting in a bench and she asked, "Can you do
me a favor please?"
I asked, "What is it?"
She said, "I wanna see Mithra, can you take me to her? She is
studying 9th standard in St. Ebenezer School, Yelagiri"
I said, "Let me check with mom and if your health cooperates we
shall go this weekend"
I checked with my mom and dad during dinner. Dad said, "Let us
all go and visit Mithra this week end. Anyway we were planning for
a family outing; let's combine it together"
As planned we all started. On seeing her sister both of them
hugged each other and cried. We didn't know what to do and how
to react on seeing this. Soon they became normal and were talking
about their classes, studies, teachers, hostel and lot more. We had
lunch with Mithra, during lunch Mithra said aloud to everyone,
"Arjun is the only person Nethra has ever introduced as her friend
till now and I'm very happy that she has someone to share. Thanks
a lot, please take care of her. She is very reserved and will never
tell anyone what she feels"
I said "Don't worry Mithra we'll take care" and we started back to
Chennai. On the way back Nethra said to my dad, "Thank you for
organizing this trip uncle, I'm very happy" Dad said, "Please don't
say thanks a make me a stranger. You're happy right, that's what I
wanted child"
Just to divert the topic I said, "Adithi is also studying 9th standard
now". Looking at Adithi, I asked, "Is Mithra's syllabus same as
yours?"
Adithi said, "Yeah, Same CBSE syllabus"
Overall the trip was good. She was happy and I was happy too.
Days passed on like this and I did not discuss with Nethra about
my love for her and her opinion about me except for the hospital
incident. I tried to talk to her sometimes but she avoided talking
about it. We completed our under graduation and went abroad for
MBA and my dad helped her in getting an educational loan. After
MBA I took up my dad's business and Nethra joined a company.
Adithi and Mithra moved to 12th standard.
Everything was fine and I asked my parents to ask Nethra's mother
for her hand in wedding. As Nethra's parents are divorced, her
mother took up the responsibility of settling them. Her father
remarried and had a son. Nethra felt very ashamed and awkward.
When my parents asked her mother, she was not much interested
in the wedding. My parents were very keen on the wedding and
later she accepted. Our wedding was fixed. Before the wedding I
wanted to ask Nethra if she was happy about the wedding because
there was no love proposal, no acceptance and we were not lovers
but good friends. I called her and asked, "Are you happy with the
wedding?"
She said, "I think you're ruining your life"
I asked, "Why do you say that? Don't you like me?"
She said, "It's not about like or dislike but it's because of me, my
behavior, attitude etc. You'll have a tough time with me because I
don't know what a family is, what a wife and husband relationship
is or how to build it. All I know is arguments, quarrel, hatred,
tears, pain and grief. Since I didn't have any pleasant memories
during my childhood, I hate having children and I hate myself too.
I hated being a symbol of sympathy and shame among my friends
and relatives. I hate divorce. I think it's the more cruel than any
cruelty ever existed in our society. Divorce is worse than "Sati (A
practice in the olden days where a woman would be burnt alive
along with her husband in his death funeral)" No man can live a
peaceful life with a woman with an attitude like mine. It will lead to
divorce and I will become the apt example for the saying "Like
mother, Like daughter""
I said, "Nethra, You don't have to worry about the past and its
negatives. All I wanted to know is if you like me or not? Give me a
straight clear answer yes or no"
She said, "Yes as a friend, but"
I interrupted and said, "Thanks, I don't want any "But". We can be
friends even after marriage"
She said, "To be friends we don't need a marriage"
I said, "Very true, anyway my parents will get me married to
another girl and she will become possessive and will ask me not to
talk to you or meet you. I can't listen to that and she'll ask who is
important Nethra or I. I'll say Nethra and she'll quarrel and my life
will become more miserable. I prefer to share a life of dissension
with you than to share it with someone else"
She said, "Thanks for saying that I'm important, but still I have an
aversion towards marriage"
I said, "You'll get over the aversion soon. Be ready for the wedding
and I'll take care of the rest"
I was happy to know that she likes me and I said to myself, "I have
to make her love me too. hmmm interesting task"
The wedding took place as per our customs and practices and
everything went on well. All Our relatives left leaving 6 of us in the
house which included Mom, dad, Adithi, Mithra, Nethra and I. After
dinner we all sat in the sofa and watched TV and were talking
about the days happenings. Adithi and Mithra went to Adithi's room
to sleep. Dad asked us to go to our room and Mom accompanied us
till the room.
Before she could enter the room Nethra held my mom's hand and
said "Aunty, I'm scared"
Mom said, "There's nothing to be scared about. Everything will be
fine soon"
She asked, "Aunty, Can I address you as Mom from now on?"
My Mom said, "No issues, you can address me as you prefer. But I
am desirous to be addressed as Granny and please grant me that
wish soon. Family planning is between the husband and wife. I just
told you my desire" saying this she kissed her on her forehead and
asked, "What does the mangal sutra mean to you now"
She said, "I don't know, I haven't thought about it. It's a custom so
I'm wearing it."
Mom said, "You'll explore and discover its meaning soon" and she
left the place.
I was sitting on one end of the cot and she stood at the other end.
We were like the North Pole and the South Pole. She kept biting
her nails and I understood that she was nervous. I beckoned her to
come near and as she came I said, "Sit" and she sat on the cot.
I said, "You look perplexed and tired"
In her delirium she said, "Yeah, I'm tired, woke up early in the
morning and didn't have enough sleep last night. I'm not confused
but I'm wondering how am I gonna manage in a new place"
I said, "My home is not new to you"
She said, "My role as your wife makes it a new place to me"
I said, "The change is only in the role and not with anyone else"
She asked, "Did you hear what Mom said just now? She wants to
become granny soon"
I said, "That's Okay, elders are like that"
She said, "I can't ignore it just like that, she is more than my
mother to me. Nobody has ever loved and cared for me so much
like her and I'm very grateful to her. Since I'm obliged to her it's
my duty to fulfill her just and reasonable desire to become a
granny but I don't know if I can do it"
said, "That's lovely, but it's your wish. No troubles from my side.
Okay I won't take much of your time. I'm tired too. I have few
things to give you" Saying this I went to the cupboard and grabbed
a bag to the cot. I smiled and gave a cover to her.
As she was opening it I said, "This is the college admission cards
for Adithi and Mithra. They are going to study in the same college,
same course and Mithra is gonna stay with us from now on. I don't
want her to stay alone in the hostel and suffer in loneliness like you
did"
Tears welled from her eyes; but she smiled and said, "Thanks a lot.
I always loved and longed to stay with her"
I said, "It's my responsibility and handed over another cover to her
saying, "This is for my beautiful wife".
She opened it and looking at the air tickets, and the broche from
the tour operator for 10 day tour package she exclaimed, "Are we
going to Mauritius?"
I said, "Yes, for honeymoon"
She asked, "Are we leaving tomorrow?"
I said, "Yes, pack your things and be ready. The flight is at 9.30
PM"
She said, "Hmmm...Okay"
I took out the last one and gave it to her saying, "This is a small
wedding gift for my dear friend Nethra. Happy married life"
She smiled and took it from me and opened it. It was a cute white
teddy carrying a red velvet heart. She was nervous and restless
and having so many things on hand and mind, the teddy slipped
from her hand and fell on the floor just like she dropped Cuckoo.
Now the recorded voice screamed "DARLING, I LOVE YOU". With
widened eyes she picked it and hugged it and looked at me with
fright.
Smiling I said, "Hmmm Okay, good night, I'm gonna watch cricket.
Take rest. Good night. Sweet dreams" saying this I went near the
door and before I could leave I said, "I wish I was that teddy" and
left to the hall switching on the TV. Slowly I slept off as I was tired
too. My Mom woke me up in the morning with bed coffee and she
said, "Good morning, hope you slept well. (Smiling she said)I
appreciate your patience. What time is your flight?"
I said, "9. 30 pm"
She said, "Okay, pack your things and organize your trip" saying
this she went to wake up Nethra.
We started off and reached Mauritius in the morning; occupied the
room booked for us. Since it was booked for honeymoon the room
was adorned with aromatic flowers. The look and feel of the room
was extraordinary. We called our family and informed them about
our safe arrival, the hotel location, room number and contact
information.
We had breakfast and started off for sightseeing. Mauritius is one
of the most spectacular islands of the world. The beaches of
Mauritius are some of the best I ever came across. White sands
and blue waters make a striking contrast that was a treat for the
eyes. The climate was good and we had nice time.
Nethra was enjoying the beauty of nature and as usual I loved her
company. The day went on good with fun and joy. As we were
sitting in the restaurant for dinner, I asked her, "Can I take a
drink?"
Shocking she looked at me and asked, "Alcohol... Liquor.... do you
take liquor?"
I said, "Yes I do, occasionally"
She said, "Your wish"
I said, "Sweetheart, to do as per my wish I need not ask you. You
either say yes or no because you're gonna stay with me. You
should be comfortable and I don't prefer doing something that
troubles you. You're my wife and I should discuss everything with
you"
She said, "No, no drinking"
I said, "Okay, thank you" ordered food and as we were waiting for
the food she said, "You're not like my dad"
I asked, "Why do you compare me with your dad?"
She said, "He is the first man in my life. So I thought all men will
be like him. He doesn't discuss anything with my mom and
similarly my mom gives him back the same. They take their own
decisions on everything and it was Mithra and I who struggled
between them"
I said, "A husband and wife should be like best friends to each
other. There is nothing like ruling or leading the other it's just
sharing life and heading together. My parents discuss every small
thing right from the purchase of home appliances, investments, our
education and everything. You know the next day's menu is always
discussed during dinner and mom made it a practice to have dinner
together"
The waiter served the dinner and after that I continued, "If dad
missed a dinner that's it, his day is ruined. She'll not talk to him.
He'll walk after her and beg her pardon. She will not accept it
immediately, she'll hold on for some time till Adithi and I support
him. Then she warns him and it's over. It will be fun watching
these small plays at home and we learnt love and forgiveness from
them. At the right age they involved Adithi and me in the
discussion and sought our views and opinions, if our decisions were
right and wise they acknowledged it and accepted it. It included
our marriage too"
She said, "Yeah, I know it's fun to be in your home"
I said, "Bricks and walls make a house and it's the woman, the
mother who makes it a home. My love, will you make my house a
home?"
She said, "I'll try, I might fail a few times but I'll learn it from your
mother. I have a request for you"
I asked, "What is it?"
She said, "I will try to change myself and live up to your
expectations. Please don't leave me for any reason, I hate being
alone"
I said, "I love you the way you are. You don't have to change
anything for me. You are just perfect and I want you to be yourself
always"
She said, "But you are changing my character. I don't talk much,
but now I feel like saying all the untold that I had shut in my heart"
I said, "I'm happy to know that you are feeling at ease and
comfortable with me. You can talk and do whatever you wanted to
do with me okay. I love you and all you do"
She asked, "You love me so much? I don't know if I'm worth your
love."
I said, "Don't speak such philosophical words" and we left to the
room.
I switched on the TV and sat on the couch fiddled the remote
searching for a good channel to watch while she was having a
wash. I suddenly remembered about that and I took it from my
bag and sat on the sofa again. She joined me on the couch to
watch TV.
I asked, "How was your day today?"
She said, "It was great; Mauritius is awesome"
I said, "Yeah, I loved it" and gave her the pack saying this is my
honeymoon gift for you.
She asked, "Does anybody give gifts for honeymoon?"
I asked, "Why not? Gifts are given to express love and that's what
I did. I thought this will be the right time to give this gift that's why
I didn't give it yesterday"
Smiling at my response she opened the pack, her face turned red
and said, "Oh my god"
I asked, "You didn't like it?"
She said, "It's nice but"
I asked, "But"
She said, "I wanna talk to Mom in privacy; can you leave me
alone?"
I said, "Okay, I'll go a walk" and left the room.
I went to the reception and made a call to my mom, my call was
on waiting. She attended my call and said, "Hey Arjun, Nethra is on
the other line"
I said, "Yes, I know, put me on conference without her knowledge
mom"
Mom said, "That's not a good practice. Call me later I'll talk to you"
I said, "Mom, she is my wife and I need to know if she is unhappy
with me"
My mom said, "It's bad, should I do it?"
I said, "Please mom" reluctantly she connected the calls and told
Nethra, "Sorry dear that was an important call that's why I had put
you on hold"
She said, "That's fine mom, no issues"
Mom asked, "So how was your day today? How is Arjun behaving
with you?"
She started sobbing and my Mom asked, "What happened? Why
are you crying? Did he force you?"
She said, "No, he is gem of a person and I'm feeling guilty I'm
disappointing him, I'm not fulfilling my responsibility as a wife"
Mom said, "Thanks, for a moment I thought I have raised an
animal"
She said, "No mom, he gave me a night dress as a honeymoon
gift"
Mom asked, "You didn't like it"
She said, "I liked it but it is transparent and seductive. I feel shy
and awkward to put it on"
Mom said, "Sweet heart listen, He is your husband and has all
rights to see you like that but only if you are willing and I promise
you he won't trouble you or force you. Put it on only when you're
comfortable and he'll take it as a sign. My advice for you is life is
beautiful enjoy it and you'll start liking this life soon. Take your
time. Enjoy your honeymoon, okay"
She said, "hmmm..."
Mom said, "That's good. Good girl. Take care. Bye. Good night" and
disconnected her call and asked me, "What Arjun, what is your wife
saying?"
I said, "I love you mom, you handle her wisely"
Mom said, "People are more important than anything else Arjun.
Relationships are more fragile; handle with care. Take care of her"
I asked, "Sure Mom. So how are you, dad, Adithi and Mithra
doing?"
She said, "We all are doing fine. Enjoy your honeymoon and come
back home safely. I wish your patience will be paid soon"
I said, "Thanks, I want us to be compatible people first, which is
more important for a family. Am I right mom?
She said, "Yes, couples should be capable of existing together in
harmony. Okay take care. Bye"
I said, "Bye, Good night" and we disconnected the call and I went
to my room and knocked it.
She said, "Come in"
While entering I asked, "What did you mother-in-law say?"
She said, "Nothing, we were just talking"
I said, "Okay, I'm feeling sleepy" saying this I lay on the couch and
asked her, "Can I sleep here or shall I check if another room is
available"
She said, "No, you can sleep on the cot, I'll sleep on the couch"
I said, "Maybe we can take a forty winks on the couch but it is
uncomfortable for an entire night's sleep so I suggest both of us
sleep on the cot comfortably if you are comfy"
She said, "Okay" and we walked towards the cot as two poles and
laid ourselves on both the edges facing the walls. We dozed off
soon and I woke up when the hot sun's rays hit my face and found
her still sleeping but she was facing me and her legs slightly
wrapped on me without her knowledge. I called the room service
and ordered for coffee and lay on the bed gently stroking her head
as I didn't want to disturb her sleep.
She was sleeping like a baby. The name sleeping beauty was very
apt for her and I wondered if the princess in the sleeping beauty
fairy tale would have been as beautiful as my Nethra. In silence I
asked God, Why did you put her in wrong hands instead you could
have given her to me, I would have taken care of my angel.
Anyway thank you lord for giving her to me. I'm happy with her.
The calling bell rang tringggggggggg...........
I opened the door and the room service personnel said, "Good
morning Sir, Your coffee and newspaper. Have a nice day" saying
this he left the tray on the table and left the room.
I served coffee for both of us and woke her up with a kiss on her
forehead, she didn't refuse it. We started off with the days outing
plan. Usually when we were together I used to do a lot of talking
and she speaks very little which is contradictory to our gender.
Similarly today I asked her; tell me some of the happiest moments
in your life.
She said, "My world is very small. It consists of Mithra and me. Few
years back 4 more people joined my world. Yet I have few happy
moments to mention"
I interrupted and asked, "Don't you have your mother and father in
your world?"
She sternly said, "No, I can never forgive them for ruining my
childhood. Don't talk about them please, their thoughts make me
angry"
I felt bad at her response and I was able to feel the pain and agony
in her tone. I said, "Okay, go on with your happy moments"
She said, "I was very happy when little Mithra was born. I was
extremely happy when you said; my safety is your responsibility. I
saw a fatherly concern in it. I started liking you from that moment
onwards. When you got food for me I found a motherly care. When
you said the worst hostel food is good and you gave me your lunch
so I can at least have one good meal a day; I saw your brotherly
affection. When you surprised me with a gift on my birthday I saw
a true friend in you. I was bountifully happy when your mother first
kissed me on my forehead, Adithi's innocent chats and time spent
with mom, dad, Adithi, Mithra and you are the finest moments in
my life"
I said, "You have seen me as a father, mother, brother and friend
but why is your heart refusing to accept me as your husband?"
She said, "It's because of my past dreadful experience which I
haven't told you"
I said, "I don't want to listen to your past which will remind you of
that and trouble you. I know you're innocent. All I would say is
forget the past, I understand it's very hard but still try not to ruin
the present with the past"
I felt happy that she spoke frankly and unusually, expressed
herself. During dinner she said, "You can take liquor if you want" I
said, "Not today, I don't feel like taking a drink now. When I feel
like taking a drink I'll surely ask for your permission, dear. Okay?"
she smiled and said, "Okay"
The second day of our honeymoon went on like this with a little
improvement of sleeping together facing each other without any
hesitation. She woke up early the third day. Sweet sound of her
anklets woke me but I was pretending to sleep and I was observing
her. She ordered for coffee and was trying to wake me up. She got
her face near my face but took it back. Few moments later she
came near to kiss my forehead but she didn't, I opened my eyes
and said, "Leave off your shyness and kiss me dear" sheepishly
smiling she said, "Good morning" and handed me a cup of coffee. I
knew she started to love me but was reluctant to reveal it.
We went for the third day's outing and she started to walk holding
my hands and allowed me to wrap my hands on her shoulder.
There was progression in our intimacy and we captured it in the
photo snaps. This day went on as usual with a little improvement of
wrapping our hands and legs around each other.
Though longing and yearning welled up in my heart, I enjoyed this
waiting. It was an interesting and exciting experience to make her
bloom herself. The fourth day's outing went on like this and in the
night she asked me, "It's boring, Can we play something?"
I said, "Okay, let me check if the billiards pool or any recreation
centre is open in the hotel at this point of time"
She said, "Let's play an indoor game"
I said, "Oh, we don't have chess board or carom here. What do we
play?"
She said, "Hide and seek"
I laughed loudly and said, "Hide and seek interesting. Okay who is
gonna hide and who is gonna seek?"
She said, "I'm gonna hide and you're gonna seek" saying this she
tied my eyes and pulled my hands to my back and tied them
together.
I asked, "When was then rule changed. I know hide and seek
where only eyes were tied but why hands?"
She said, "what if you take out the eye band with your hands
before I hide and find out my hiding place?"
I asked, "Okay, but anyway I have to take it out myself once
you're hid"
She said, "Oh yeah, I didn't think about it. Okay you start counting
by the time I will hide and think on how to release your hands as
well"
I said, "Okay, count till how many?"
She said, "100"
Hmmm funny I started counting, "one, two, three..................
forty, forty one............. Seventy, seventy one.................. ninety
nine, hundred. I was counting and at the same time thinking where
is she gonna hide and I listed the places to check - the cupboards,
under the cot, balcony, bathroom that's it. No more place to hide in
the room. I asked, "Nethra, I'm done. Shall I Come?"
She said, "Hold on I'm not yet done"
I said, "Bad girl, you don't know the rules of the game, you should
hide before the counting ends"
I heard the sound of her anklets nearing me and her sweet
perfume smell hit my nostrils. I felt her untying my hands as she
was saying, "Is it, I'm sorry I don't know the rule"
She untied my hands and wrapped it around something, when I
was trying to find it out what is in between my hands I felt
something rolling my head. Before I could think of what was
happening, I felt soft air brushing my ears and I heard her say "I
LOVE YOU"
I felt something warm and wet on my lips and my hand found out
it was Nethra in my arms kissing me. I got released from the kiss
and asked, "From when?"
She said, "I exactly don't know when I fell in love with you. You
ploughed my tough unruly heart and sowed seeds of love with you
kind deeds. I watered and manure it with your loving thoughts. The
seeds have rooted and grew as love. The love has bloomed as
passion and desire with your diplomatic attempt at preventing any
hurt to my feelings. I'm moved by your love and my fears are
chased away. My love, you conquered me"
I said, "Oh, that's lovely; but why didn't you tell me?"
She said, "I didn't find a reason to tell you all these things. You
know when you become wild in the hospital and screamed, I
wanted to hug you and cry. Anyway I think this is the right time to
say all that I felt"
I said, "It's great to hear all that from you at this time along with
kisses. This is the loveliest moment in my life. Darling, we have
come till the flowers; I wanna see the fruits of my patience. Sweet
heart untie my eyes, I wanna see my beautiful wife blushing"
She asked, "No, I won't untie your eyes; but what fruits are they?"
I said, "There are many, I wanna witness them"
She said, "Touch and feel"
I ran my fingers on her face as I whispered, "A best slice of water
melon is beautifully carved out to make your forehead"
She said, "Oh my god, no one has ever compared like this. Then
what else?"
Kissing her cheeks I said, "The rosy pale apple cheeks would have
turned as red as a strawberry by now"
She said, "Hmmm hmmmm"
I said, "I wanna see those back grapes rolling on the porcelain fish
platter in the form of your mesmerizing eyes"
She said, "Hmmm hmmmm"
I said, "God wanted your nose to be unique so he didn't make a
fruit pretty like your nose"
She said, "Oh my god"
I said, "The orange segments were designed to replicate my
angel's swirling lips. Oh sweetheart you know! God took the color
of the purple passion fruit to color your breathtaking lips"
She said, "Hmmm hmmmm"
I said, "The country pears were designed so that every slice of it
will resemble your ears. Pineapples and avocados were combined
to make your neck and nape"
She said, "Enough"
I said, "Just a few left, let me finish it"
She said, "No"
I said, "As long you keep my eyes tied I'm gonna say" and as I
continued to say "I wanna see" she locked my lips with hers as she
was untying my eyes and when I opened my eyes, I saw her in the
night dress I had given her. Oh, what a fantastic night it was. We
had a nice time the whole night.
Next morning we woke up late, she was lying on my chest and her
face was vivacious like a just blossomed rose. I stroked her head
and said, "I loved the hide and seek game. Did you?" she
murmured, "hmmm, I liked it too"
I called my mom and after usual enquires I said, "Mom, the night
dress was awesome; Thanks, nice selection" she gave a surprised
look and grabbed the receiver from me and said, "mom, was it
your selection? Hmmm anyway your idea was excellent and it
worked out well, thanks a lot, we had a nice time" now I was
shocked and grabbed the receiver from her and asked, "Mom, was
the game your idea?" on the other end she said, "Turn on the
speaker"
I turned it on and she continued, "I'm glad to know that both of
you had a nice time. I just helped you people to start your family
life as both of you were hesitating, scared and shy to take the
initiative and from now on you can take it further. Relationships are
fragile and need to be handled with care. Take this as a statement
for life. Life is beautiful, enjoy it against the odds that come your
way, be happy, make others happy and spread the happiness
wherever you go. All the best, Have a happy honeymoon. Take
care, bye"
Both of us together said, "Bye Mom"
After the call she said, "I love the way your parents handle things"
I said, "Yeah, even I love the way they raised Adithi and me. I'll tell
you some instances. When I was studying 10th standard, I got
attracted to a girl near our house. My scores were going down and
I was becoming dull and restless. My dad identified these changes
and one day he took me out to a restaurant and ordered for a beer
for himself and asked if I wanted a beer.
I said, "Maybe yes" he ordered one for me and said, "This is not
the official age to taste beer but temptations start at this age. The
more you control the more you are tempted and tried so let's taste
it. Moreover beer has less alcohol content when compared to other
liquors. Everything is good when it is within limits"
The waiter got the beer and as we were taking it he said, "Arjun, I
am glad that you are within the pass % in your studies but overall
score is going down. What's troubling you?"
I didn't want to hide so I said, "Dad, I like the girl who is staying
near our house. She is always on my mind"
He asked, "Is she studying in your class?"
I said, "No, she is doing her UG"
He said, "That's fine, age is not a matter at all. But you should
think one thing. If your studies are going bad your future will be
taken for a raid. Even if you are serious on this, it would be difficult
for me to approach parents for her hand in marriage. Concentrate
on your studies first, get a good job and then if you still have the
same feeling towards that girl, I'll talk to her parents"
I felt relaxed and peaceful. After this we became good friends. I
started concentrating on my studies and slowly I realized it's not
love but infatuation that I had for that girl. (As I was saying this I
felt a sense of possessiveness in Nethra's face) I said, "My dear
tweety bird, you don't have to worry about all these things, I just
wanna be frank and open with you and expect the same from you
too. No man is perfect and flawless; as a wife I think you need to
know about my flaws than perfections"
She said, "Okay, but I'm feeling possessive. This feeling is new to
me"
I said, "That's a good sign of love as long as it is within the limit"
I continued, I even told my dad about my interest to watch a porn
movie when I was 17 yrs. He said, "I appreciate that you asked
me. Proper sex education is needed now with raising AIDS and
other STD diseases. It's natural and common to have these kind of
desires at this age but I advice you, don't watch it from any movie
hall. You'll become an animal and will lose respect for the other
gender. You will see them as mere objects than as human beings.
I'll get you an educational CD on that" and as said he did get me a
CD and after that he asked me if it was useful and my comments
on it too. This freedom and easiness offered by my parents had
brought me till this level and I didn't go astray. They were able to
guide Adithi and me in all walks of life and gave us the freedom to
share and express our feelings.
Nethra said, "I wish I was born to them"
I said, "But if you're born to them, then I wouldn't have got this
lovely wife. I'm happy and feel blessed to have you as my wife"
saying this I kissed her and we started off with the "Hide & Seek
game" and this term has become our code word from then on.
Our honeymoon was lovely. We flew back to India. Life was going
on peacefully and happily. About 6 months later Nethra gave me
the good news that we are gonna have a baby and I felt so happy.
My mother took care of her very well, took her for regular
checkups, scans and so on.
Nethra was very scared and she said, "I'm very much afraid" I
said, "Don't be scared, stay calm and be comfortable. Check with
mom if you have doubts" whatever I said and however I consoled
her she grew restless day after day.
All of us in the family were happy until we found out that the
umbilical cord is around the baby's neck during a check up in 8th
month of pregnancy. The doctor said it's a risky procedure and the
chances of survival are very less for the mother and the baby.
Nethra got scared. She was admitted and there were few hours left
for the operation.
She called me and said, "I'm scared, I think I'll not survive this
operation"
My throat was shut with pain and grief with the thought of losing
my loved one. I said, "No dear it is not gonna be like you think.
You are gonna come back safely with a son or a daughter and we
are gonna live happily"
She said, "If I die, I want you to marry Mithra"
I said, "Nethra, please don't talk non sense. Adithi and Mithra are
the same to me. I trust God. You'll come back. You're the only one
in my life"
She said, "A woman would love to hear this from her husband. I
would be happy if I survive. Arjun, I love you, I wanna live with
you in your love for infinite years. When I wanted to die I was
saved and now when I wanna live I'm gonna die. I had repugnance
towards life until you came into my life. I never thought love can
be so good. You taught me what love is, what happiness is and
what life is. You changed my seasons; you gave me reasons to
smile, to laugh, to love and to live. Now I like this life and I don't
want to die so early. I never got what I wanted. The life with you
till now is what I have been longing and yearning for all the days of
my life. Parents like your parents, a husband like you who holds
me in the palms of his hand and protects me like an apple of his
eyes, children like you and me. I don't wanna die but live Arjun, I
want to live this life. I want to live with you"
Sobbing she continued, "Whatever it is, God bless you and thanks
a lot for you gave me a life in heaven. Though I don't want to die, I
will still be happy if ill fate takes me because I lived a life to my
heart's content"
As she was saying this, mom entered and I said, "Mom, she is
scared to death and I can't console her or give her confidence"
Mom took her hands in hers and said, "Nethra, I spoke to the
doctors they said this hospital is equipped with the latest
instruments and the best doctors in town. You don't have to be
scared or worried. As desired I'm gonna see my grandchild soon.
After few years you're gonna give me another grandchild and I'm
gonna raise them up. Don't worry about anything. Put your trust in
God" saying this she kissed her forehead and stroked her gently.
I know my mom's kiss pacifies her and she was calm and said to
me, "Please be with me"
I said, "It is my duty and responsibility to be with you in times of
trouble and pain. Don't worry I'll be with you"
A couple of nurses brought the stretchers and took her to the
operation theaters. I was with her holding her hands till she
became unconscious. I wanted to cry aloud, I needed somebody to
console me saying "She'll be safe" I had never felt like this before.
Though Mom, Adithi and Mithra were present, nobody had the guts
or courage to talk to be me as I was so depressed and dejected.
Little later I heard the cry of my little one; few minutes passed and
a nurse came out; she placed my little one in my hands and said
"It's a girl" I was happy yet I was looking at her with lots of queries
and expectation for news about Nethra but without saying anything
she left the place.
I kissed my little angel and hugged her to my bosom and held her
tightly. She shook her body and her little hand hit my chest. I felt
like she was consoling me, I felt like she's saying "It's alright dad,
everything's gonna be fine soon. Mom is gonna comeback alive" I
felt a great consolation and it's an unrivaled solace too. There is no
match for the consolation, comfort and confidence she gave me
that moment. No one can ever give it again.
I felt happy and I blindly trusted that Nethra will come back.
Sometime later the doctor patted my back and said she's safe and
out of danger.
I went near her and I wept with joy, it was such an emotion that I
can't express in words but it can only be felt. The fear just
vanished and I felt so... so good and happy. She woke up and
smiling she asked, "Where is mom?" I kissed her forehead and
said, it is a girl and mom is busy with her granddaughter. Wait I'll
call her" saying this I ran to the verandah and called my mom. She
came in along with Adithi and Mithra and gave my little angel to
her and asked her to feed her. Nethra took her, kissed her and fed
her. Adithi and Mithra enquired about her health. My mom said,
"I'm very happy to see both of you out of danger"
Nethra said, "Mom, you have to raise her up, wise, loving, patient,
caring, affectionate, mischievous and naughty like Arjun. Teach her
the rich heritage and cultural values of our country; specially the
values of a family. Teach us parenting as well"
Mom said, "Sure and she left the room" with Adithi and Mithra.
She asked me to sit on the cot and she gave her to me. As I took
my little one from Nethra, her hand got caught in Nethra's mangal
sutra. As Nethra was took out her hand she said, "Love gives
meaning to everything even metals and stones"
I held her in one bosom and my little angel on the other and asked,
"What does it mean to you?"
She said, "It means love and life. I love you. Arjun for this love you
shower on me, my heart says you can do anything for this Man.
I'm a slave to your love"
I kissed and said, "Love you too. You're not a slave but my queen"
and looking at my little girl I said, "She is my little princess" As I
said this, my little girl gave a small smile for a micro second with
her tiny lips as if she was hearing to our conversation. I asked, so
what shall we christen our angel?"
Nethra said, "POORNA"
Smiling I said, "My mother's name, lovely, but how will we
address her"
She said, "Yeah, mom's name because POORNA means complete
and fullness. Your mother and our daughter make our lives
complete and let's fondly call her as Cuckoo or tweety"
I said, "Great, she'll be our little mom from now on"
Holding both of my angels on either of my bosom is one of the
loveliest moments in my life.
 The End ß