Together Forever

For all those memories, that inspired me to write this story.

“Dedicated to all young hearts“

The Novel

By

Ashutosh Patel

Acknowledgement

My dear readers, to whom I bestow all my motivation. I want to share a fact that I am not a

professional writer, neither there is any personal desire to be. The purpose of my writing is

to convey some of my experiences, thoughts and believes that changed the way I think

about the love and helped me to become a better person in my life. This is my debut writing

composition. I hope you will like it.

This book would still be languishing in the laptop, if these people that I thank below were

not there with me.

They may not be literary super powers, but they always have made me feel that my book

was no lesser than an Oscar material, often without reading the contents. Needless to say, I

took them seriously and they matters a lot to me.

To start the list with somebody whose name truly deserve in the print just as mine, I would

like to thank my dad who was always there for me. His kind attention and support

empowered me to complete my writing with great patience. My Mom, younger brother,

who constantly supported and encouraged me, even as they grappled with nightmares of

me leaving all Engineering materials and ends up as intellectual paupers. That is until they

read this book.

I would like to extend my genial thanks to Mrs Anushka Chetan Patel, my critics throughout

the voyage of writing. Her criticism served me to make this book a piece of worth. My

cousins Swati Patel, Akanksha Naik, their contribution is notable as mine.

Finally, my batch mates who unflinchingly provided me there vibrant prop ups whenever I

needed. I wouldn’t have any content if these buddies wouldn’t be there with me.

At the end, I would applaud for myself for making the dare to portray all my emotions in

front of you. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have come across an author in me.

Prologue

Hello, Readers! The book “Together Forever“ is my first fictional creativity, although it is

flavoured by some of my true experiences, but mainly backed by imaginations and fantasy.

It is a LOVE STORY. This book is all about love, its trials and tribulation and victory over the

tryst of destiny that makes life. Though it is difficult to put up everything in words, still the

content catches some lame impression about the mixture that I mean. I hope it will bring a

little doze of magic as you read it.

So, before picking you up into the picture, let me make you familiar with the main character,

the hero that is ME. I am Ashutosh Patel, pursuing B.Tech in KIIT University. You may find

me here as sweet, innocent character (as what people who saw me for the first time say

about me), although the facts counters. I love to live life on my own conditions. In spite of

some lacunas, I always try to put cent percent of mine (this is what I am saying about

myself), you will come to know more about me as you read further.....

I hope you will connect yourself with my prospect and appreciate my work.

Have a happy reading …

Contents

Bhubaneswar calling …

First day, the first crush

Way to Friendship

The first phone call

Falling in love …

The college Carnival

A cup of coffee together

The Valentine’s Day

Finally … the proposal

Back to Home

The first Monsoon shower

The change

A step apart academic

The bonding

The rival is back

The technical stuff

Trip to IIT KGP

The divergent

Bhubaneshwar Calling ...

4th August 2012

76 ..

77...

78 ..... ( rumbling )

“Wheeze“ !!!

7 9 ..... “ DHADAM “ , someone down the floor !!

Well that’s me! This was the best I could have managed with two full suitcase and a roller bag on my

back.

Dropped in the floor, my heart was racing fast as if it was going to pop out the next moment. I was

breathing heavily, pissed off and tired too. All I was thinking – Why the hell, there isn’t any lift! But lifts in

hostel are so rare comfort.

“Come on, get up! It’s there “, my dad bawled upon me from the other end of the corridor. He was

following me with another duffle bag in his hand.

I was still laying in the floor sensing the dripping sweat from a corner of ear lobe. I was tired and my

bones were in their last crack. My dad clinched my hands and pulled me up, he took one of my suitcase in

his hand. Then I managed to get back on my feet.

Again – 8 0 ..... 9 0 !!! Ufff …..

We were looking for Room no – 3B 411, and almost lost in that giant blurry hostel “KP-7“, more

specifically The King’s Palace 7 … sounds good ? Really, don’t know why the people call it so. Trust me,

there wasn’t anything like King’s treatment and it was not at all a Palace for sure. Just corridor one after

another and there lots of room, I could see everywhere.

But where was mine ? Where was 3B – 411 ???

I dragged my rolling bag few steps ahead and found someone to ask, a thin old men who was moping the

floor since don’t know how long.

“ Uncle where is 3 B – 411 “ , I asked groggily.

He turned his rusted head up slowly and looked me with his old and strange eyes. Probably he didn’t

understood what I just asked him. The next moment he uttered something that bounced off my head.

That was is Odia.

This was the first time when I heard something in Odia . Although I still wonder what it was! But soon I

realised, don’t know what would I learn here, but one thing is sure - I am going to end up here with a new

language.

“Next room behind this corridor“, my dad spoke loudly from behind.

I took another long breath, gasped little and walked with my Roller bag, leaving behind my dad with rest

all luggage. I was glad and relaxed as finally after 90 stairs made sense.

“Yeah it is there ! I found it dad, I found it … “I screamed eagerly.

I quickly unlocked the room and entered with a curious big eyes.

The scene was something unexpected like this, It was dark and little dusty. It seems as if, I was the first

person invading that territory after a long time. The sharp smell of paint from everywhere was stinging. It

seems as if all the furniture were recently polished. Hmm… Furniture!! By Furniture I mean - three ply

beds in a row right in front of three wooden cupboards. Two fans and just one chair. There was huge

window plane on one side of wall. I walked toward the window and fill my lungs with fresh air.

I was so worn-out after in that hectic counselling session that it was very difficult to keep my eyes open.

Without a single thought in my head, I fixed my mattress over the bed. I took the bed that was right

below the ceiling fan and made myself comfortable over it. In the meanwhile my dad started unpacking

my bags and arranging the things in cupboard.

Now, it was very calm and relaxing after those hectic 90 stairs hill climbing and that tedious counselling

dealings. “The BOSS (bus) is waiting outside “, I still giggle when I think about it.

I was happy and frolic as I have never been a homesick guy. I was relishing this newly found

independence with no restriction yet mysterious responsibilities that has to come. Short after a power

nap, I woke up and stood near the window ledge to view the surrounding which was still left to do.

There was a lawn just beside the road and some building which were under construction. Some boys

were playing football in the ground. The view seems pretty good, although there wasn’t any girl’s hostel

nearby.

I was still exploring the way and saw a giant white Cruze coming near the hostel. My eyes glued there, it

was sparking Chevrolet Cruze, no less than a wonder creature for any car lover like me. It stopped right in

front of the hostel’s gate. I didn’t bother to look who got down rather I was gazing the white metal finish

beauty of it.

Suddenly somebody intruded my delusion by knocking the door. I opened the door with an irked face.

“Hi, you Ashutosh ?“

A handsome guy was standing at the door step wearing low waist, so low that just one jump could strip

him off. Everything about his attire was branded, even his underwear since it was hanging an inch above

his jeans.

A was still looking at that guy when a person with three heavy bags on his shoulder and a bedding rolled

up over his head placed everything in a corner and left in that Chevrolet Cruze. Probably he was his

driver.

So it was he inside the one about which I was dreaming a moment ago.

This high profile Adonis is going be my roommate. I wouldn’t even dare to look at myself in the mirror in

front of him, I was whispering in my mind.

“You must be Ashutosh, right? “ He asked again in a tough manly voice.

“Hi !! I am Mayank …. Your roommate. I just checked your name in reception counter“. He said and

forward his hand for a formal handshake.

I broke the silence and stretched my hand too. “ Hi hi, I’m Ashutosh “, I stammered .

For a plus two kiddo face guy like me, a roommate with muscular physic and metrosexual-style was

permanent source of inferiority complex.

Howdy !! When did you reach? He asked.

“I am good. I reached here this morning “. I replied.

Then a second later, I asked him … “How was your journey, you must be tired ?“

“Oh me ?? NO NO … I woke up little late, so may look like that but I am not. “He said so causally and

smiled as if the first day of college life was just another day of his life.

Then he started emptying his bag of gizmos while I was sitting comfortably on my bed. His bag was

flooded by all imported accessories, garments and that too not just once in fact twice of each set ,

printed by his name “ MS ” !

That’s awkward … I was not going to steal anything.

“ Oh f**k , f**k , f**k ! I forgot to bring my I pad.“ Mayank said in his quite natural tone as he couldn’t

find his imported Apple I Pad.

It was the first time I heard the ‘F‘ word from somebody’s mouth and that too not once or twice but

thrice . I preferred to use ‘ Oops or Shit ‘ instead of it . Soon I understood my vocabulary is also going to

add up here.

Well, this wasn’t just enough. It was just about two of us. The other had yet to come as three people had

to share one room.

Mayank had just unpacked his bags and started filling his cupboard.

Then an hour later ...

Knock, knock… someone was in the door.

We together opened with inquisitiveness and got our third roommate, Piyush.

He was thin, his ribs seemed to bestow his body and looking as it was six pack. I didn’t figured him much,

but he was tall (much taller than me and Mayank), fair and cute looking.

“Hello Piyush !!“, we together said with a smile.

But, he just rolled one of his trolley and got in without responding any of us.

He was looking sad and pale. I was supposed to ask him about it, but I was lost in decoding his looks that I

didn’t looked his face.

What happened bro? … “I am not finding you happy, is everything ok? “ Mayank asked him in soft vocal.

“My parent left for Pune. I am missing my home.“ He replied and took out a hanky from his pocket. He

was sobbing repeatedly. He had some nasal congestion and feeling difficult to take in his viscous fluid

that was ready to fall down any moment.

Oooh !!! Just look at the momma’s wistful boy. I looked him with pity eyes. Well, it wasn’t his fault, many

people feel hard to leave their home for first time.

“ You are such a kiddo ! Wait, I have got something for you. “Mayank exclaimed petulantly.

“What ? ” The Mama’s homesick boy asked him curiously.

This time even I was also curious, seeing Mayank behaving uncanny.

“Just wait and watch“. Mayank took out something from his cupboard, while I was still with Piyush trying

to sympathising him.

“I got something for you!” Mayank came back with some colourful magazine in his hand. In the next

moment new word like Maxim was introduced into my vocabulary. Seeing the exciting cover first time I

felt beauty is much more than face.

Piyush face glowed up, as if the models of cover page were his lost girlfriends. His eyes was wide open.

Within a moment his homesickness gone and his stock of tears dried up quickly.

He was staring each page passionately when Mayank went out for a call whereas I was standing at the

door step thinking, it is not going to be easy to hook up with these guys for next four years. I had always

thought of having a roommate from my region like me. And here I am now !! Hunched up between a

hunk from Assam and a baby boy from Maharashtra.

Great !! that’s why I call myself a luckiest person on the earth …

First day, The first crush !!!

It was 6 AM in the morning and my eyes were open. I could see the bright rays of fresh sun

shine in my bed. I have been always an early riser, my father settled this good habit in me. I

saw, Piyush and Mayank were still in their mid-night dreams. They had a handy chat last

night, though I left the conversation by 11 pm, but the lights of room was on till morning.

Last night we talked about each other’s background, schooling life, hobbies and all. I got to

know, Mayank had been a national level badminton champion while Piyush had won many

debate completions in his school. However I felt short of words when it came to me. I felt as

if I am trained for nothing.

Mayank was a very frank and open minded, even in the first day he revealed the list of all his

girlfriends and past relationships. More ever he was little hilarious kind of, typical Assamies

guy with small eyes above fair cheeks. More than anything else his Hindi was really comic

and it was treat to listen him.

On other hand, Piyush was bit studious type. His streak of 90 percent since last three years

amazed me. On the same time he was a full crack FIFA freak. He and his Laptop, that was all

about him. His Laptop was the den of games, I and Mayank got this the very first day when

we caught him playing Counter Strike even without unpacking his load at night. His kiddo

face had impressed my girls and he had one serious commitment too.

I was hoping to have a great bonding between us.

I was still looking at the window plane, writing down these stuffs in my dear diary. Then

suddenly, I thought about the time …. OO SHIT!!!

I took my belongings and rushed for shower. It was going to be my first day in college and I

didn’t want to be late. I picked my best pair of outfit and dressed up quickly. I was just

ready to leave when Mayank and Piyush also woke up, their dizzy eyes were showing that

they haven’t completed their sleep. I understood they would take time to get ready so I

didn’t wait for them.

Like much of others, I was a guy who belongs to a traditional middle class family. My eyes

were dreamy and fresh enough to take in the new arena around me. Everything was new

and polished, new place, residence and the people around me. Since childhood I was very

receptive to the change. So, in spite of some remorse of leaving behind the family,

everything was looking very fascinating to me. I was curious to explore the new milieu and

trying to make myself comfortable in it.

I had a huge excitement of jumping into the college life. My elder cousins always used to

share their college adventures and experiences. Now it was my time for self-examination.

I was very eager to face my first lecture, new teachers, and new friends. It was the

enthusiasm and excitement that took my mind and kept me awake the whole night. Actually

it always happens with me, I always have frolics beginning for anything new and then

gradually loses interest on it.

Anyways patience about to end… It was Monday, the first day of engineering league. We

had just one sessions as per the time table. The first lecture was about Engineering

Graphics. There was still some time left for lecture. I saw Mayank and Piyush coming, I don’t

know how they managed to get ready so quickly, even now I wonder about their this talent.

Soon I went out of the class to view the ambiance of surrounding. Really, it was awesome no

lesser than heaven. I couldn’t think a better place than this. I was surrounded by the flood of

young faces, all loitering down to shape their dreams. I was standing above the first terrace

of D Block and viewed everything clearly.

The scanning wasn’t yet end and suddenly my eyes transfixed somewhere. There was a girl

in white shade salwar beside OAT 3. She was fair (though the visibility was not clear), I could

see she was holding her white dupatta over her head. Perhaps, it was the scorching sun that

was irritating her. She was simply dressed but wasn’t looking simple in any way.

I moved aside to zoom in her pretty view. Still it wasn’t very clear but I figured her short

hairs, she was smiling and saying something to her friend, don’t know what and why ! I

clogged my reasoning and went in her smile. I think I was stunned for a moment and kept

gazing her. I could sense the sound of my erratic heartbeat. I couldn’t stop myself from

gazing her bubbly nature that seemed to just waft off me in waves.

Suddenly, I heard the bell ringing sound ... It was a time for the class. I was struggling to get

out from my utopia of dream. Soon she left and I woke up from a beautiful dream, I tousle

my hair with smile and went from there.

I figured there was a tall guy looking much senior than me.

“Hey ..I’m new here. Do you know where E.G. lab would be? “I said tentatively.

The guy looked back at me and grinned a little then said Room 24, C block … He was

pointing toward a corridor behind me. I thanked him and started walking toward it.

All across my way, I was thinking about that girl. Every time I was asking myself – “How

could someone look so pretty“.

I impeded in class little late. So, I when got in all the faces turned toward me. They were

staring as if some Alien has knocked the door.

I felt little awkward, but soon a smile came on my face. I saw the face about whom I was

dreaming all my way. She was sitting in a front row. This is what I call KISMAT (Fortune)

CONNECTION. I was happy to know that she was going to be my classmate. Eventually, I got

a reason for my attendance.

As it was the first class, madam left me without saying anything but warned me for the next

time. I got into the class and blissfully took my seat beside her. Now she was just few inches

apart and the visibility was crystal clear. I could see her clearly, she was even prettier than

what I have viewed her earlier.

Especially her beauty spot that I missed was really dollish, getting out of it, her eyes behind

square frame made her look like a million dollars. It was so deep that anybody could easily

fall in it, at least I was lost there for a moment.

Then suddenly I got a pinch from the other side. She was Palak, I meet her in counselling

session and we turned to a good friend there. Perhaps she had noticed me staring her.

Thank god she did, else I would have continued and caught... I got conscious about the class,

madam was taking the attendance, everyone quiet (happens only in attendance time), then

a name came “Aisha“. She acknowledged politely.

I whispered “Aisha“, woaw ….. a pretty name for a pretty girl ! I was dying to listen her

name. I hope she wouldn’t have noticed my scoff.

It was just an introductory class. The madam was telling the uses of different drawing

components. It was just my half brain that was listening the lecture, the other was lost in

Aisha’s charm. Consequently I was hunched with my drafter, I tried enough but couldn’t

able to fix it.

I think this time I snapped her attention, she noticed me. She took no time to turn my side

and said - “This is a wrong way, lemme show you“.

As she held out her left hand to hold the drafter, I noticed the immaculately manicured

finger nails covered in a hue of red nail polish. She took my table and handle everything very

nicely. Though the subject was also new for her, but she was doing as if this was her regular

work, probably unlike me she was paying her full attention.

I felt ashamed on my foolishness. It was so easy stuff, still I couldn’t fix it. But on the same

time I was glad because due to this foolishness I heard her voice and got her attention. At

the end, I thanked her and she went back to her place. I was happy inside to think that my

cart is on the track.

The bell rang twice, that was the end of the class. I felt so far, its so good. Aisha was a girl of

her time. I noticed her, she immediately packed her bag and left for her hostel. Now, I was

alone with some beautiful memories that I just collected. Once, I thought to join her way to

have some talk with her. But her roomies Pretty and Somya were there to give her

company.

I was a shy boy, I used to get nervous when I see girls around me. So for the time being, I

thought some other day and turned up.

At the evening, when everyone were busy in hunt of their girl in internet. I also login my FB

account and searched her name. It was very rare that I Iogin my account, but someone has

rightly said, ‘Three things – wealth, women and ... ( I always forget the third one )‘ ..... can

make anything happen in this world. That day I was the first one to open FB account.

I tried enough but didn’t find her anywhere. She wasn’t using social face book !!! But, how

is it possible, fb account is so compulsion, and she isn’t in fb. That sounds strange, or else

she must be using some other social network which I didn’t know. I was disgraced for a

minute, but I knew it is just a beginning.

That night I had my dinner little early and propped to the bed. Alone in my room, I was

smiling, talking to nobody and there was this different sort of feeling within me. All the time

her face was flashing in front of my eyes, the way she was there right beside OAT. I saved

her face as a picture in my mind and slept, just so that the night would pass and a new day

would come when I could hear her beautiful voice once again.

Way to Friendship

Next morning, I groomed well. Though I didn’t had much choices but I picked the best pair of shirt from the formal sets. I reached the college and took the back seat. Aisha also crooked up soon with the horde of her friends. I was really fortunate that she sat in the row next to me. While talking with her friends she glanced me. I looked her back. Boys have a monopoly on the Staring Business and soon it turned into a staring contest. After a while she smiled, and then finally her eyes glanced away. When she looked back at me, I flicked my eyebrows up to say, I win. Soon a lady professor got in and started giving her introduction. She was going to test our

basic understanding before starting the course.

It was mechanics class. In +2, I was good in Newton’s law so I was up for the challenge.

Suddenly the teacher fired a question pointed toward me, usually the back benchers are in

the hit list of all the teachers. As she picked me up, it was no wonder but I was astonished a

bit. Anyhow I stood up, thought for a minute and then hurriedly uttered the answer in one

breath.

Ufff .... I gasp, I think I played well though I don’t think anyone would have understood what

I said. I got relax and was about to sit and somebody commented “Chatur…..“ (The character

from 3 idiots) from behind. The entire class started grinning. That happens only in college,

everyone have their special name about which their parents don’t know. Unluckily it started

with me ….. Chatur !! From that day I became Chatur … for all of my friends and those who

were not friend.

Then a bell rang, that was the end of class. Everybody packed their bags and rushed out. All

gone, but Aisha was still in. I thought she was searching something. I broke my curiosity and

asked her – “What are you looking for“?

“My Pen, I am not getting it“, she said in her pleasing and soft natural tone. Then I looked

here and there…. Oops I felt something under my shoes, I looked down. It was her pen little

broken from the cap. I immediately dabbed it up and showed her with puppy eyes, made

innocent face as if it was no intention.

She was silent for a moment, though she was still calm but I thought “I am finished !! ”. I

was ready for Aisha’s frown face that might burst anytime. I was quiet and standing with

virtuous face.

Then after a couple of seconds silence suddenly she broke a huge laughter.

I was confused and asked her – “What is going? I I am so sorry, I didn’t made purposely!! “.

“Relax Chatur, it is just a pen ! Look at your face..... Neva mind, it is ok ...”, she replied

laughingly .

“Hey, my name is Ashutosh “, I made it straight to her.

“Oohk ohk … Ashutosh, I get it, I wouldn’t call you chatur” … She turned quiet for a second

then again started laughing.

“By the way I am Aisha”, she said confidently.

“Aisha… !! Nice name”, I said and smirked. She didn’t know that I was spying her since day

one.

I gasped with relax.

She was still laughing till a doorkeeper came to intrude our conversation. He said to leave

the room as it was about to lock down. We both packed our bags and left the classroom.

I saw all her friends were gone, she was alone. Once, I thought to give her company, the

next moment I thought, will it be ok ? I mean isn’t it too early !! I mean walking alone with a

girl was something that I had never done before ... I was confused, willing to take the

chance but wasn’t confident at the same time.

Then Aisha told – “Why don’t you join me, I hate walking alone”.

I was surprised and thought did she just read my mind. Whatever it may be, I was happy. I

smirked and followed her way.

We were walking side by side together. Then I started up, I asked, “your face says that you

are studious kind of. Isn’t it ? “

“Are you expecting me to say NO to that, huh ? “ , she answered smartly.

There isn’t anything more attractive than a girl who can talk with much humours. And I

found her exceptionally witty.

Well, seriously I don’t think so. But I like reading. She replied and looked back to me.

Later we did some casual chat, introduction sort of. We talked about each other’s schooling

background, residence, hobbies. I got to know that she is a Marathi girl from Nagpur and

topper of her class.

I think this is a perfect and a very safe way to start up with any girl. Being formal always

works. But all in my way … I was just looking her eyes repeatedly. Her eyebrow arched up as

her lips curved into a smirk.

I wonder if I could remember anything about her profile. All in the way, I noticed her dollish

smile that was a treat for me. Within 5 minute we reached in front of her hostel, Queen’s

Castle. I wish our way could had been little longer. Still I was happy ... at least we were

friends now. I said her bye with a smile.

She too responded well, she just tousle my hair and moved away while I remain there till

the last moment I could see her. When she completely disappeared I turned back, looked

my hair, thought about the tousle and jumped with joy.

In evening I was in mess, I had a cup of tea and still wondering about her. It was a sweet

memory that broke until my roomies Mayank and Piyush came inside. They asked where I

were after the class. Initially I pretend to hide the fact, but I knew Piyush had seen me

walking with her. Now they both were kicking my ass as they got a matter for pulling my

legs.

Mayank told – “Is there something fishy “?

I preferred to remain quiet. Probably, that was the answer for everything.

He said – “Congratulation bro ! You are gone ... God Bless You“.

I was getting his sarcastic words but couldn’t do much. I was like a terrible fish in their hands

who could just laugh with them.

Mayank was the most experience guy. So he knew the art of dealing with such stuffs. He

often shares his experiences and gives me stupid ideas. He was hilarious and we never took

him seriously.

In night I was thinking about the walk with Aisha and suddenly an idea struck my head. I

thought to surprise her ...

Now, I was just waiting for the morning to catch her. I was only thinking about Aisha, was

she thinking about me too at the very moment, sitting somewhere in her room. I was asking

this question to myself over and over.

Next day, I woke up little early. I had the butterflies in my stomach. I took no time to get

ready and went to the college. There was a stationary shop in my way. I stopped there and

purchased the same pen which was broken yesterday.

I was the first one in the class. I had the choices about the seats. But I intentionally took the

back bench so that I could gaze her freely, as it is a most safe site to do anything.

It was complete silence all around. Then I heard someone’s heels clacking sound. I became

alert. I knew she must be Aisha, unlike other days she wasn’t guarded by her friend circle.

She was alone. That was a bonus for me.

She left her bag and walked outside. I took the benefit of the situation and took out her

Maths notebook .Now the fun began, I clamped the pen with a Cadbury and hooked in the

mid of her notebook. Then I kept it in her bag as it was in its place.

When she came back, she found me reading a book. So she sat in her place without

intruding me.

Now it was the Maths class, professor got in on time. He gave a worksheet and indulged

himself in his own paper work. Aisha was sitting in my adjacent bench. Tapping the end of

pen against the desk, my heart was pumping fast. I sighed and locked my eyes on her when

she opened her notebook and turned the page about which I was hoping for.

I was worried that it might not turn out bad. I mean, what if don’t like this surprise.

I found her confused initially then she didn’t took much time to figure out who did this. She

turned toward me and smiled. Sometimes just a smile gives explanation for all. I understood

that she liked my way.

I didn’t embarrass her and responded quite well. The things went without word, sometimes

just an eye contact is enough for everything. Somya and Pretty were observing us since long.

My focus broke when Preeti made taunting growl. I got their sign and looked ahead, as the

Professor was very strict.

It was funny but I am sure that day Aisha would have got nice treatment by her roomies.

Friends are meant for fun and that comes often by taunting each other’s.

Soon the headache lecture came to end. I seriously feel such courses are designed for

students to complete their sleep which they often sacrifice at night by playing counter

strike. Thank god that the class was over. I handed the worksheet back to the professor

before looking for Aisha.

Now it was a short break. I think she was waiting outside the class, legs crossed and lips

pulled up into a smile that made me believe that she liked the surprise.

She thanked me for the chocolate and ate all in one gulp without even asking me for once.

But it didn’t mind as it was great to watch her eating chocolate, her Kiddush way of holding

the stuffs and sneer after each bite still takes away my mind.

“Did you get it?”, she asked me as soon as she finished her chocolate. Her voice was bubbly

as ever.

“Yeah, I think so, “ I replied, hanging my bag up on my shoulder.

“ Did you? “, my eyes crinkled.

I think I did it fine, I mean the last question might get wrong … but, it was ok, the question

were really tough “, she replied.

Then suddenly I asked her for her phone number ! Was that a weirdo question?

I think Yes because she got quiet next moment.

Oops I think it was too early … but it just happened. I too felt awkward, when she

immediately left when her friends called her, without saying anything.

I was still standing quietly with some shame for my stupidity. At the end of class, I packed

my bags and immediately left for hostel. I didn’t had any further chat with Aisha.

In evening, I leaned on my bed and started hitting myself – “Why did I asked for phone

number.” There wasn’t any need of it. I thought as if my crush is crashed. My story is ruined

by myself and how stupid I am. But now it was too late my repentance. For an hour I was in

disquiet, then let go all the things that were boggling me.

I finally kept every things aside and open my Mechanics notebook as it was my favourite

subject. I feels good whenever I goes through it. I was reading sincerely until, my eyes stick

somewhere. I was surprised and stunned for a moment. I saw “AISHA SHARMA –

8093993*** “ in big bold letters and a cute smiley . There was also sub title – “If you are

smart then I am smarter than you, mind it “.

Of coz there was no doubt about it. My heart bumped in air and face filled with joy, the

story wasn’t yet end. In fact it just began now ..... I was celebrating like hell. But, somehow

confused because I really don’t know when she planned all this surprise. Once I thought she

was little stereotype but now I am quite impressed by her smartness.

Its true – Girls are erratic and fickle minded. But she was a unique girl of my flavour.

Another contented ending of the day. At night I thought to call and thank her. But it was too

late after all I couldn’t be a guy bothering her at 1 AM. So I compromised by texting her. She

also responded well and ended up with “ Gud Nyt “ and it was. Now, Lights off, Laptop down

and I went to the bed all I was thinking that is it love or just a crush. My immature heart was

in dwell and ruling my crazy head. What you think ??

The First Phone Call

In evening, I remember there was some Physics assignment which I was not getting from

anywhere. But now not a problem anymore. I had the solution for everything, Aisha ! Once I

got her number, I was always in search of reasons to call her.

Anyways, this time I had the valid excuse to ring her phone. So I just call her.

‘Hello !‘ said a beautiful voice from other end.

‘Hi ! This is Ashutosh’,I said nervously. My palms were already sweating, there was

something that I need to take care of if I don’t want to gross her out.

‘I know … wassup ?? ‘, she said in a confident and jolly voice.

‘uh…assignment ‘ I replied, hoping talking about the assignment didn’t make her sound like

wimp .

‘ Hey , are you done with Physics assignment ? ‘ I asked her straight. Perhaps this is not a

fine way to start up with a girl. Yet I wasn’t a master, I hope she understood.

‘ Yeah, I did last night ‘, she replied .

‘ Can you please explain me ... ‘ I asked her hesitantly !

‘ Yup , why not ‘ .. she said .

Now , she was telling me everything in detail and I was listening her quietly. I don’t know

whether how much I manage to conceive, but it was pleasure to listen her voice again and

again. She was so involved that I didn’t want to interrupt her anywhere.

However an hour later, I could feel my cell phone burning my ear and the cell’s battery was

on its last count. And even though I wanted to keep talking to her. I had to say. ‘ Listen ! My

battery is going to give up soon . But I hope we are going to stay in touch.

‘ Your battery ? ‘ she said , laughing .

I know, it is not that funny. But I don’t know what made her laugh. A too joined her, so that

she would not think me stupid or lacking a sense of humour.

‘ Just kidding. But I believe we will talk again ‘. She replied.

‘ OK ! I am hearing the final beeps from my cell. It was really nice to talk to you , Aisha . ‘ I

told in hurry.

‘ Same here . I liked talking to you very much. See you . ‘ Aisha replied .

‘Yeah’ , bye.‘

‘ Instead of bye , you should say ‘ see you ‘ . It’s better. It means you will interact again ... ‘

she said, and touched my heart , somewhere . Her innocence and the way she talked to me

had left her mark on my mind and heart ‘ . Now I was completely under her spell.

‘ See you ‘ , I said , Before I hung up .

That night lying on my bed, I went over the conversation again and again. I wonder if I could

be bit more humorous, just to impress her further.

I don’t know why, but I felt like calling her up again and trust me it was really hard to curb

that urge. But I had to control it because I don’t want to mess things up that too right in the

beginning by becoming a guy who bothering her in nights.

‘ NO ‘ , I said to myself loudly , switched off the lights and jumped into the bed . Alone in my

room , I was giggling , talking to nobody . There was a unique emotion cultivating in my

heart. I could feel it, a feeling that I had never felt ever before.

Next day , I was very happy, after that handy chat with Aisha I was very confident. Now it

was the time for face to face. After all live chatting has its own fun, we can view the

expressions on the face which are sometime more important than words.

But, What happened ?? She didn’t come ..... Don’t know why ? I thought to ask about her to

Pretti, but she was also not looking anywhere. What was happening ... girls were looking in

minority, hardly it happen. Normally we boys like to bunk the classes and roam outside.

There were hardly four five girls.

Forget about all the girls , as there was only one who matters for me . Aisha ...

Once the class got over, I immediately peaked my phone and call her ..

Aisha peaked it up and replied – ‘ I am lil busy now , I will back to you within a minute ‘ .

I said, OK ! and disconnect the call . I was wondering about what Aisha is doing actually ?

Anyways , I was waiting for her call . Firstly , an hour gone and then another and then so on

... yet no calls by Aisha . Still , I had this gut - feeling she would . By 10 , in the night I was

getting restless . I wanted to hear her voice and get the reason why she didn’t came today .

At the same time , I wanted her to call me up .

I was looking my phone every now and then. There was a fading hope on my face. Probably ,

Mayank got this as he told without getting into the subject – “ Don’t make her feel that you

are going crazy for her ; just give some time and she will come to you “ .

That’s it . Just one line ... Was that the success funda of Mayank in the matter of girls. I don’t

know , even now I don’t know what does it means .

At 11 , I realized that Mayank was a fool and I went ahead and texted her – ‘ HI‘ , but didn’t

receive any reply for that . Now , I began wondering who the real fool was ...

Mayank was laughing on me .

Now , I was irritating not just because of Mayank , it was me . Again I was stucked between

my heart and brain . Both of them were not coinciding to one point. My brain was telling my

ego , ‘ What does she think of herself ? Whereas my heart still dying to listen Aisha’s voice.

Call it my weakness or my effort to curb my ego, a little latter I did what does my heart told

me to do – I dialled her number

‘ Hey ! Hi , how are you ? ’ Aisha picked up the phone.

I think I should have been loud on her, but before I could say anything , “ Sorry ... Sorry , I

forgot to call you back “ , She replied instantaneously .

And everything vanish again, probably it was her voice that worked in her favour as I was

starving for it since morning . I got calm and asked her – Why was you absent today ?

“ Umm ... Today , we have shifted been to a new hostel so I was little busy in packing and

all.“

‘ OK , then you must be tired ‘ . I replied her .

“ Ya lil bit , it’s so weird here . I am missing my old place “ ... She said in restless voice .

I got it , Aisha was very sensitive girl . This new place was boggling her .

I thought to entertain her ... But how ? Unlike her, I wasn’t a humorous person, neither I had

jokes that could make her laugh . But I knew being formal wouldn’t work today. I need to do

something that could make her feel better. I had something in my mind.

I asked , ’ How is food facility in your hostel ? ‘

“ Yak !!! “ , she did

That was enough , I got that they were also no different from us , at least in terms of food .

She said , “ do you guys also have thick rice and spicy vegetable like us ? “

‘ Absolutely , YES ... We are no different ‘ , I replied confidently .

Soon I became more causal. Our convections about the taste were exactly alike. We

engaged cursing to management for keeping such food in menu. I got to know that she is

also vegetarian like me and don’t like eating vegetable. We were talking about each other’s

taste and what a coincidence? Most of them were similar. She also likes sweet dishes more

than anything else.

Then I asked , ‘ Do you like cooking ? ’

“Yes , I love to cook specially Maharashtrian dishes , not much but some of the sweet dishes

“ , she replied .

Then don’t know why she asked me the same question ...

I was numb for a moment thinking why would a boy would like cooking , then I said – ‘ NO , I

only like eating , and I am really good in it ‘

She laughed little ... I think she was so involved that soon she forgot about her all day

workout and even mine frustrations had gone . So that was how we started calling each

other, touched base on various things : the latest movies I had seen , hobbies , like and

dislikes .

Soon, we started writing messages, and even wishing each other good night. But, in our

initial calls we remain very formal.

Falling in love ...

For the next few weeks, the things were in fine-tune and going steady. I loved to be with

her. We started doings assignments and studies together, then soon I started feeling for

each other. It all started with a hesitation and in no time we became quite relaxed and

informal. Now, I had the every minute details of Aisha , our secrets no longer remain

secrets. We found some amusing things about each other.

Like mine, Aisha’s father was also in government service, that was transferable. She had also

never remain on one place for more than three years. Like me she also loved to travel eat a

lot. It seems, we two were pretty much alike and shared same convection and views.

We started spending times together even after college hours. I used to drop her daily till her

hostel’s gate.

I still remember those days ... the way echoed by our loud chuckle and sometimes people

often stare us. But we guys had our own world of amusement, caring for nothing. Aisha

started calling me even for her minor stuffs like shopping and I loved to accompany her.

The nights were even more colourful. After the all day work, I looks the corridor with

darling eyes . It had became almost a routine work at 11 pm . My late night calls had made

clear that there was something cooking between me and Aisha . At the time Mayank and

Piyush used to stand outside our room few second before 11 and began to count down , ‘

10 , 9 , 8 , 7 , 6 ,5 , 4 , 3 , 2 , 1 ..... and my phone rings . Of course Aisha !!

My colleagues always saw me busy in phone calls . Though they often look me with

suspicious eyes, but I didn’t mind after all it was Aisha’s calls . Sometimes we were so

engaged that our conversation continues till it reaches to zero balance and luckily if

something left then it ends up by morning. I don’t remember what were the matters that

we talk so much, but I never tired of listening her. Sometimes I even fell asleep when she

start her those girly beaching. I never liked it, but simply pretended as if I am listening.

Perhaps she could read my minds.

My crush went deeper. Now, it wasn’t a crush ... it was something more like love. I couldn’t

dream a single day without her. For me love was just a word until she gave it a meaning.

After all she was my first crush and first love too.

The College Carnival

Now, it was December ... The love was in the air. The hectic mid semester exam already

passed. There was no sign of getting result for weeks. Everybody were relax. Now, it was the

time to welcome the new year and our festive season – The Annul College Carnival in the

beginning of January !

Aisha was much more excited about it. She had an amazing talent, her singing ! Though I

never took interest on cultural event, but I often heard her rehearsing very well . That was

magical, at least she had one die heart fan of her voice . That’s me !

Now, it was the time to expose little bit and harvest the assets in public. We went for

registration, but here came the poor fate. The registration for solo contest was over and the

duet category there was space. Aisha turned down. I couldn’t see her loosing heart. But all I

could do was hold her hand and assure her to make it for her some way.

We were still thinking and there came Rohan for the same purpose. He was also looking for

a partner. We smiled as if our problem is solved itself and fixed the matter. Aisha was glad

and so me too. However, I was little jealous. It was the first time when Aisha was interacting

with someone else. I wish I could sing, than may be that someone would be me .

Rohan was a smart guy . He was tall and handsome. Recently , he broke up with Palak . She

was my good friend and always object Aisha’s presence with him. She told me how he was

selfish fake person when he was with her. It seems he wasn’t a nice guy Even I also saw him

flirting with Aisha .

Initially, I acquired her words flippantly . But things went off, when I saw his fondness of

getting closer to Aisha without any reason . I thought to be alert . Many times I thought to

warn Aisha about him . But she was so innocent that she don’t get anything straight .

Now , Aisha share her most of the time with him in practice hall where I was not allowed to

enter. I always saw them talking , laughing . Though I turned little insecure for a time , still

kept quiet .

Even at night she often reject my calls and if she picks then we ended up shortly by saying –

“ I m tired today , I will talk later on “.

I felt dishearten, but pretending as if I understood her. I really felt burning when we

occasionally meet and even then she involve Rohan in chat. It seems she was impressed by

Rohan’s smartness . I thought myself as her second priority after Rohan . Still , I didn’t said

anything because I didn’t want to disturb her anyway . Her practice with Rohan was good

going and hardly it was the matter of few days more . I knew the thing would be as usual

then after .

But my patience sucked once when I call her , this time I got busy tune . I tried again , yet

again same thing . I kept trying over night , but she didn’t respond any time .

Next day , I heard it was Rohan on the line . This time it wasn’t easy for me to digest

everything . I was dazed and talked with Aisha about this issue . However she was cool and

passed by telling – “ It was just rehearsal taking on there “ . How can one spent a whole

night just talking about rehearsal and that too in phone . I don’t get it , but one thing I got

was it wasn’t about rehearsal .

Though I was fuming inside , but didn’t express anything . I knew how important this

Carnival was for Aisha and I couldn’t ruin her hopes specially at the pick time . So , I went

from there without saying anything .

I was unhappy . I wish I could sing song . I felt myself of no use . Actually , it hurts when your

love isn’t with you but it even more hurts when you find your love with someone else . In

my case , both the things were happening together .

May be , I was stressed and somewhat broken . I saw few miss call by Aisha , but I wasn’t in

mood of replying her . This must be weird . The night went dull and I slept early .

The next morning - Sunday . It was the show time . The campus was beautified like never

before . Everyone were enthusiastic . Also , it was Aisha’s big day . She was going to

perform in front of all students .

Though , I was little upset with Aisha but I couldn’t be rude with her . So , went to her and

wished for great luck and trot out .

But the next moment was tongue-tied …

She seized my hand and told – “ Please , don’t go anywhere ! I need your presence ... Be

with me !! Rohan left my side , she will sing with Jaya . She was the champ of last year’s

contest . He would surely win if he sings with her . May be I don’t sing well . So I’m thinking

to back off . Its duet format , I wouldn’t be considered even if I perform . “

I have faced Aisha many time , this was the first occasion when I saw so humble appeal . On

one side I was fuming for Rohan while on other I felt pity for Aisha .

Aisha was important for me . So , I left Rohan’s thought and faced her eyes . I just clinched

her palm and told – “ You have practised to be here for more than a month . Now , you are

thinking to back off !! Why … I know , it has to be duet , still I want you to go on a stage and

do your job . Just sing for yourself , doesn’t matter if you don’t win … Look I m with you ,

always “

Then the anchor announced Aisha’s name . It was her turn . In the meanwhile , being a nice

friend I calm her . I hugged her delicately and dropped her to the stage . She agreed to sing .

She started her singing . Everyone kept quiet . Then as she fearlessly reached on high node ,

the crowd joined her . Everyone were loving it . I was in front row , Aisha was frequently

looking toward me giving her sweet smile . I think we were acquainted to each other . She

was confident and enjoying herself . It was pleasure to watch her performing so nicely . It

was a bang on performance .

The real surprise broke at the end when one of the judge stood up and gave standing

ovation . She was surprised . But , I didn’t ... She deserves it, all she was needing was a little

confidence and a kick ! I felt proud on her .

Aisha was very happy . I could read her face , she was willing to say many things but she was

not getting words . The only thing that I understood was she was very happy and wanted to

celebrate with me .

At night , Aisha called up … I was in my half way to sleep . I took her call and responded

while yawning .

“ Mission Accomplished “, She said waking me up …. Thanks for being with me , your words

really worked and presence made me sing … sing for myself . Thanks for everything .

She pause for a minute then told – “ come on I want to give you something , tell me what

you want ? “.

Hmm … this sounds interesting ( now I was fully awake ) ,” don’t give me so liberty … I might

ask you to gift yourself “ , I turned little naughty and replied her !

Darling , I m all yours …, Aisha was one step ahead of me , when I comes about flirting .

“ Come on , ask me for anything and you will get it “ , Aisha told boldly .

Now this was an opportunity for me . She was under my spell .

I took a minute to think and gallantly replied – “ ok , if you are telling so then a kiss would be

perfect for this favour .”

“You are really sick guy , taking advantage .. ha ?” She chuckled a bit ….

Then …smack !! A fusillade of kisses . The last one was really passionate . That was the first

time when Aisha kissed me on phone .

It was so refreshing that I could stay awake the whole night .This was the first kiss I got ,

though it was in phone but I was smitten by her again . I read somewhere ,“ Three things

wealth , women and …”( I always forget the third one) …. Can make anything happen in this

world . Sounds true !! Well , this was the another landmark in our saga .

She cut the line immediately after that. Probably she would be blushing on her stuff. But , I

could feel her presence around me . Now, it was clear to me that Aisha too like me the way I

do her . Perhaps now I could take the chance and pop the question to her.

A Cup of Coffee Together

It was Sunday’s morning, the weather was chilly, foggy and it was slightly drizzling !

Everyone was in their dorms, no one dared to roam outside the college campus. Aisha had

invited me for a coffee treat on campus CCD on such cold. Probably, it was the carnival

effect that she asked me for coffee.

But me being a fool creped in my bed and napping away. Yesterday, I had late night studies.

I was tired and dull. Around 10: 00 A.M. my phone buzzed. But I chipped covering myself

with blanket and missed the call. Then a minute later, I felt something ringing beside my ear.

I was so addicted to the sleep that nothings I could sense ...

Then ‘ Wake up you ass’ , Mayank shouted on my ear.

“ No , I cant “ , my voice tingled with sleep.

“Ten more minute “, I grunted.

“If I told you, Aisha is calling you, would you still want to sleep “ , Mayank was clever

enough , he knows when and where to hit me.

Ooo ... Aisha , shit I missed. My head shot up so fast that my neck could have got crick. I

bolted out of bed and started trying to get my hairs pressed down my head.

I was dispatched for a while but immediately picked her next call, still I was yawning. She

told – “ Catch you in CCD right at 5 : 00 PM and ended up . I was surprised, I thought am I

dreaming ?? No , that was reality . It was very rare that Aisha was asking me to go

somewhere out, else she always took me to the library with her.

I immediately rushed to the bathroom, took a quick shower, threw some clothes over my

bed . I was in so hurry that I was about to slip twice.

“Slow down Romeo “ , Mayank advised me .

But it was just an hour left and I had to prepare so many things. After all , this could be the

most beautiful evening of my life . However, I managed best in short span of time . I was

looking good, my roomy Ashish gave me the complement. I finished everything on time and

now i was leaving , I was so excited that i was getting down two stairs at a time . I quickly

rushed and reached there 10 minute early .

I saw Aisha didn’t arrive yet . I was relaxed and took the most romantic sight . It was beside

the gallery window . One seating over there could see the beautiful lawn , there was boon

by colourful flowers . I was waiting for Aisha and little worried , every time I look my hair ,

shirts , jacket and confirm whether everything was ok . i was fully prepared and my wallet

was loaded .

Then a minute later . There she was ... I saw her coming. WOOAW !! She looked

breathtakingly gorgeous !! Though I have seen her endless time before, but today it was all

different . She was totally new, no specs, her hairs were differently clutched. In her black

jeans and red top, her grey eyes stood out and her pink lips ….

The new attire took me to the dreamy fairy land where only beauty could reach . I

must say .... She was looking dam HOT, recently discovered ! On the same time it was

coated by her decency and cuteness. I think her look has just gunned -down thousands

on your unparalleled beauty . She was the girls of rare vogue .

I stood up and gently pushed her chair little back so that she could seat comfortably . Now ,

it was just me and Aisha . I admired her for this new version .

She gushed and that was enough for me . We placed our order and now seated quiet. .

Normally , we talk much . But don’t know what happened that day ? Probably we were not

getting the topics .

We just placed our order … Aisha ordered for Choco vanilla with sandwich while I asked for

cappuccino . I knew CCD was an expensive place and I couldn’t let Aisha pay even in our first

outing . So , I was prepared well and loaded my wallet with sufficient credit .

In the meanwhile , I was bit nervous because this was a huge opportunity for me to impress

her and express my feeling . On the other hand some stupid thought like head … what if I

ate like an ape , what if I embarrass her … she could leave me !!

Soon our orders were in table .

Aisha gracefully picked a piece of sandwich while I was waiting for my coffee to cold down .

This is an another peculiar habit of mine , whether its tea or coffee … I first wait for it to cool

down and when it get water , I drink .

A minute later, I initiated the conversation .

Me : hey , do you had boyfriend ever ?

( Though it was little awkward because it was important for me . )

Aisha : ( Immediately , as if she was already prepared ) Ummm .... Not actually , but i had

two , three ex in the past !

I was dumbstruck for a moment ... but her smile hinted me that she was faking . I could read

her mind . Aisha always loved to taunt me and it wasn’t first time she was doing it .

A minute later ...

Aisha : ( with curious smile ) Do u had ever ??

Now , it was my turn . I muddled little and kept quiet for a moment.

Aisha : What happened , you didn’t reply ...

Me : Wait , I m still counting ..... don’t disturb ( naughty smile )

Aisha : ( with fuming eyes ) Really ?? Hey, I was just joking , u know ! But you ......

Me : ( big eyes ) may be ...but , I don’t care ! But I was serious.

Aisha : ( poignant face ) Hey , you are irritating me on my treat !!

Me : Excuse me , I was just telling you the truth .

Aisha : ( fury face ) You keep counting your list of those ex ...... I am going. Please , Excuse

me !

I think she was serious, but I was enjoying . First time I have noticed her furtive feeling about

me in her eyes . I guess she was also equally in love with me. Now this was the right time

and better place to disclose my heart for her .... I thought to take the chance … So , fingers

crossed !

She was about to go, but I clinched her hand softly and turned toward me. I went little

closer and looked into her eyes. Now, this was awkward ... people were staring us. I was so

involved in her that I forgot that I am in a public place where I need to show some

mannerism. But she didn’t mind and even I too.

She was excited to listen me, I could hear her heart bumps and saw some sweats over her

eyes brows. I was equally nervous.

She sat down again. I took time to figure out my words while Aisha seems patient and eager

to listen me. I was about to speak and there a waiter stride with bill. Perhaps, this would be

the worst spoiler of anyone’s love story.

I shrieked my eyes with anger and thought now its not going to happen … at least today. The

other moment I convinced myself …. If its not today, then some other day !!

Then I remember Mayank’s mantra – never let a girl pay your bill in your first date. Though,

it wasn’t a date actually rather it was one sided so somehow the rule was applicable.

I immediately snatched the bill from table before she grab it , saying – “ Bills on me “ , gentle

man’s line .

She smiled and said - ok , I don’t mind !

I turned the bill on my side and looked it. The next moment I shocked, it was 648 bucks

including taxes . I checked my wallet, it just had 500 bucks. Now I was flunked, I didn’t had

the money and I couldn’t Aisha for bills now . Perhaps, that gentle man spirit hooked me .

However , I pretend to be calm and nice . Aisha was also looking at the phone frequently,

she had to go somewhere. In the meanwhile, I secretly kept that bill in my pocket and

stepped to the bill counter . Thank God , I had the card with me . I swiped my card and paid

the credit . I think Aisha didn’t notice me .

Then I came back with smile and went from CCD , thanking God and dad for saving me today

.

In evening , I bowled on Mayank for his stupid matra . I told him the whole happening of

CCD . The shameless chaff , started laughing loudly . He included Piyush too in his play . I felt

like a prey between both of them. But , this not enough … what about my dad . Whatever

cash I withdrew , my dad receive a SMS for that . What if he know about my love story !!

This would be a bolt from the blue, for him and then me too.

The Valentine’s Day

I think, now Rohan’s chapter was closed as he hung up with another girl. Thank god he did.

Once I got jealous of him. But , it’s truly justified ... because when there is so much love ;

little jealously is granted .

But still so far I haven’t expressed my feelings to Aisha . Now, it had been a time being

friends only . We both were well acquainted with each other . Now I wanted to jump into

next level . I mean just wanted admit my love in front of her . I was even more desperate to

know her feelings about me . I was just waiting for a right moment and right place to burst

this secret .

It was the mid of Feb. , Valentine’s day was approaching . The love was in the air. There

wasn’t any pressure of studies and we were in our own tune. The seasonal rose garden of

campus got open for all. In the evening it used to became the hub for the love buds . It was

a romantic place and where you will find all the couples in their own corners .

I knew Aisha was crazy about flowers , specially roses . I was still thinking and my head itch, I

thought to take up the chance . Valentine’s day in rose garden , such a lovely moment

comes only once in a year . I think this is really amorous , a perfect time and place to express

my feelings for her. There was something cooking on my head ... Now my patience was

exhausting !

I was panicky and bit nervous . Although Mayank and Pallak were there in due course . They

have told me everything but it was ultimately me who has to do everything by my own . I

made enough rehearsal but still i was not confident . Last night I dreamt about her, I was

awesome there . But when it comes about reality , it is not that easy . I was sweating like

hell . Once I thought to drop the plan .

Is it too early ? If yes ... Then when ? How would she react .... What if she would say ‘ NO ‘ ,

in that case i may lose even my friendship ! All such questions were trouncing my mind . Ufff

..... why it is so difficult !! Perhaps anyone could understand the confusion of this raw heart .

Thinks about devil and devil knows your door , Mayank came . My face was enough to tell

him everything . Before I could say anything , he said ‘ Are you scaring ? ‘

Scaring !! and me ... I don’t scare of anything, I hesitantly replied .

Oh , come on dude it goes well without saying , anybody can see the 12 noon on your face .

If you aren’t sacred , what does it meant for ? Mayank told with half smile .

I took a pause then realised that its useless to hide anything . If Mayank could read my face

then anyone can ...

I told , it’s not that i am scaring . It’s just i am little puzzled ! Please help me bro ...

‘ Hey , i understand ... it happens first time , even i had once . But gradually i got habitual as i

moved to my eighth crush ... Just remember one thing , all girls are fool and they like

foolish things ... so go on doing , it might work for you ‘ . Mayank was saying all such stuff

just to make myself relax and bit more comfortable .

I laughed quietly and then asked to her, ‘ does it need an artistic approach when you

propose a girl ‘ ...

( It was a really tough question ) Mayank was looking serious , but i got my answer when he

said - ‘No , not necessary at all . It is your candour ( honesty ) and kind of bonding that you

guys have , it matters more than anything else . A girl would simply peak goodness in your

eye , if you honestly love her . More ever , you don’t even need to speak ... it’s your eyes that

simply communicate when you are in love . Rather place and time isn’t of any use ‘.

These were some deep things . But still I was getting the gravity of those words .

Come on man don’t think so much , just go and tell her . I knew she also loves you , she is

just waiting for you ... Else Rohan might back and took away your princes , Mayank told

tauntingly .

That was enough to fire me . Mayank was well familiar with all of my weak pulse and just

now he took up one of them ... the weakest one.

That is it. Mayank’s speech boosted me and now i could listen my heart . It is all clear . I am

going to propose my girl to get her in my life . Its now or never..... Thanks Mayank , ‘ truly a

friend is need , a friend indeed ‘. Fingers crossed .

14 Feb 2013 , I knew this day could be the most important day of my life . Although I never

pray except before exams , but this time I have prayed much so that things could happen as

per my plans. Then I call Aisha to catch me in evening around 5 P.M . right at Rose Garden . I

thought evening is a best time , when the sun is setting down , cool breeze blows , then the

rose garden looks even more colourful and aromatic . Girls likes such soothing weather and

generally boys took advantage of it .

Well , the day was shutting down ... I had to get ready . I peaked my best pair of outfit and

nicely combed .That day i put gel for the first time in my hairs and curled them up , it was

Mayank’s idea . Both Mayank and Piyush were staring me . It’s obvious because I always

prefer to be simple and formal , but that day it was quite weird .Those dunk shoes and

jacket wasn’t my taste , still i did because once i have heard that Aisha likes such things . It

was complete my make over . I just hope it might work .

I was so indulged with my looks that I forgot about the time .

It was already quarter past five when I reached there . There was the boon of flowers all

around , but my eyes were looking only for my daisy .

Aisha was already arrived . I think she was searching me .She was wearing a frilly pink

flowered dress that reached her knees and light greenish socks and scandal . Her brown hair

was tied in two pigtails , she was looking like a princess . But , the nicest thing was she came

alone this time . Thank god her roomies unaided for me , else all planning would have

thrashed . I think she could have intuited my intention . Anyways that’s good for me .

I think she didn’t notice my presence , so i thought to play a prank . I got there from behind ,

knocked her back and said “ Guess whom “ ?

Ashutosh, she replied instantly ... Wow , that brought a smile on my face !

So , wassup !! Why did you call me ? straight forward Aisha asked me .

‘ Ummm ... nothing special , I have something that might surprise you ...’

Surprise !! What ? Aisha with curious eyes ...

‘ Relax dear , let the suspense continue little longer ... Let’s have a some walk ‘ .

‘ Fine ... But don’t forget that surprise na !! ‘ Aisha warned me .

( We both were walking in the lawn )

Everything was perfect , the sunset , weather , flowers ... as if it was a wonderland ! More

important is Aisha was in mood , so could dare to take up the chance ...

Me , How is this place ?

Aisha , Superb , so colourful ... I just loved it .

And what about me ... I asked her hesitantly .

( Is it too fast going ? )

Aisha , What ?? She took some pause and then replied casually .... Oho you ! Ya , you are

looking quite different today . Sorry , I didn’t notice you .

Ahhh ... Thank god , she noticed me atleast else once i thought that I am gone ! But that i

didn’t mean actually ... my question was in different context .

Then one step ahead , I asked her ... So you like me na ? ( very quietly )

Yet another weird answer ...

Aisha replied – Umm , yeah you are looking good ... but I think this type don’t suit you much

! I have been always fond of your soberness and i think that makes you different from other

.

Shit , damm shit ... All effort in vain . These things i did only for her . When i used to be

simple , she taunt me that i am simple and now when I have changed she is saying the

previous one was better ..... Girls are impossible !! I don’t know why did I like her so much

.... Still , sometimes i wonder .

Then again ... “ Hey look at your hair , it is looking like a hen’s top what do we call it ...

whatever Its almost as if you have put your finger in an electric plug .... All hairs straight up “

Aisha told ( She was laughing ) .

Now , it is enough ... i was fuming inside ! Mayank ... you are gone today , Run for your life .

Aisha was still laughing , then she asked – “ By the way why have you done this ?

Then I hesitantly replied – “ Umm , for you “ ! and then looked other side ...

“ But i never told you right ?” said Aisha .

I was speechless for moment and then told ... Yup , still I did because ...

Aisha became conscious and asked me mischievously – “ Because ... “ ! Now , she was

taking interest, i could see her those little eyes which were looking me sincerely .

In between while , we were still walking . I thought this is a perfect time to tell her

everything . We were so close that our emotions were flowing in the air . I was so lost that i

forgot when did she clinch my arm . Though i was nervous , but all heaviness gone when i

moved one step more closer to her . Now , it was just me and her ... I was about to say her

that “ I ....

And all of a sudden .... S p l a s h !!!

Ooh shit ….

I don’t know from where the hell a water pouch came under my foot and all it explode on

Aisha’s dress . Some spread over her hand while some touched her pretty face . That was

totally embarrassing , but I didn’t make it intentionally . It just broke accidently !

Any ways , Hell ! Everything ruin itself . I immediately took out the hanky and tried to clean

her arm . I was trying to apologise , but don’t know why I was stammering that time . Some

time it happens . when you are too shocked , things happens of their own . By the time

Aisha was numb and gazing me . I don’t know what was running out in her mind . But I was

really guilty for that incident . I was scaring and waiting for her response .

I got relief when Aisha told politely ...

“ Neva mind Ashutosh, take it easy . You just focus on me , You were saying something ...

Go ahead ! “

I tried again .. but It didn’t work . All that feel had gone . I think my bad luck was chasing me

. Every time I tried to get closer and spill it out , something would happen . I wish I could go

inside Aisha’s dream and speak aloud that how much I love her … The hopeless valentine’s

day also passed while my secret admiration for Aisha was still in my heart .

Later in my room, I buried my face in my pillow and fell asleep .

Finally …The proposal !!

The two week none stop end semester examination was finally terminated on Saturday .

Now , it was the time for happy feet , its Summer vacation ahead . We were happy on

passing the first year of engineering. More ever we had 2 month vacations ahead . Everyone

had their own plan, some booked ticket to visit their home while some preferred to have

outing with friends and hang out .

I made my ticket to Raipur and Aisha as well for her place to Pune . We both had the train

on same day and that too on Monday . In first year , going home was such a huge

excitement . By evening of Saturday , almost everyone had gone . Just me , Mayank and

some of our friend were the rare species left out in hostel . The similar kind of scenario was

their with Aisha’s hostel too .

At night I got the call from Aisha and their begins my night duty . Today Aisha was looking

different , she was very energetic and excited . I couldn’t able to figure out whether it was

the eagerness of going home or excitement of finishing exams that had blown her mind .

Probably , it was a joint impact .

Then suddenly she asked – “ Lets plan something “ ?

“What kind of plan” , I replied her with probing tone .

“Lets go to Puri”, she replied bit aloud this time ….

I said “What !! ” … Yes lets go to Puri , affirming her voice to show that she was serious .

Now , that was weird because it took me a week to convince her to come to rose garden

with me and the same girl is impromptu asking me for Puri … Oh ! I , am surprised , or

probably it would be my aura that is getting her confidence and trust each day by day .

Well , this was a jackpot for me . I didn’t took even a second to say her YES , even though it

wasn’t figured that how would its going to be …

We planned over night and decided to leave by Sunday’s evening and will take our trains

from Puri by Monday’s morning … Thanks to OLA Cab service that allowed us plan our ride . I

booked a Cab on the spot and starting packing . The things were racing so fast that it was

looking like a dream .

I had never planned any trip so I lacked confidence and some how puzzled that whether the

plan would be successful or else we would miss our train . But , it was Aisha’s demand so I

didn’t left a room for second thought and decided to take the plunge for her sake .

The next day we got the cab on time that picked us from our campus . The weather was

little cloudy and the moist cool breeze were blowing over the cheeks . But , I was relaxed

and calm as my princess was right beside me . BBSR to Puri is a smooth drive without much

scenic beauty , so we got engage talking with each other .

Soon again I lost in her words , its always been like a Nuclear fission process that radiate me

with positive vibes . I instructed the driver to play some light music , specifically

instrumental that’s the preferred choice of both of us . Now , Aisha was looking even more

comfortable . She snuggled into my arms and laid her head into my shoulder , I caressed her

silky hairs for a while then observed that she has slept . I just fondle my hands over waist to

give her support and instructed the rider to lower the volume . She was looking even more

pretty and innocent like a baby taking nap .

After a butter drive of one hour we were in front of an exotic resort beside a sea shore . I

gently caressed her hair and whisper in her ear to make sure that she wouldn’t get startle .

She woke up and found herself in my arms . Again an awkward moment , her eyes were

missing the way , she got nervous for a second . I could feel her hearts beats that ware

racing very fast , even I got embarrassed for a while then I broke the silence and faced to

her assuring her that everything is alright . We knew our limits and never think of crossing it

. Now , it felt better , she managed her dupatta and looked toward the resort . For a

moment her mouth was open then she giggle with wide open eyes – “ WOAW ”, Amazing …

Am I still dreaming !! Ashutosh please pinch me hard ! she told .

No , you are awake and its not your dream .. I replied her gently to make assure her that its

reality !

Then , again she asked me – Why are we here ? She asked innocently .

Now , this a moment I was waiting for … time to surprise her ! I told her insouciantly … “ This

is our destination “ .

Oh ! come on , don’t make me crazy … She replied casually .

She started laughing , she thought I was making her fool . Then a staff came to took our

baggage to lobby . I walked behind the guy while Aisha was still standing at the door step .

Now , It was fun to watch her reaction . Initially she couldn’t figured out , she was puzzled .

But later she got it , she took no time to rush toward me and gave warm hug . Now , I felt

that the huge trouble and money worth me .

She whispered – “ when did you fix all these ?”

I booked a room for us last night online “ I told her .

Now, she stepped behind and asked impishly – “Just one room !”

Oh God , that’s the moment , I feels girls are the most terrible species … I was hoping a

Thank you or a sweet kiss and their she flushed all my feelings .

Anyways . I told , yep just one room for us ….. looking toward Aisha with naughty smile .

Aisha seemed lil bumpy now . I was enjoying every moment then gently told beside her ear

– “ Just one room for us , one for you and one for me “ .The very next moment she got relief

giving the chant of thanks in her blissful tone . Some may think that I was a stupid chaff their

, but as I told we knew our boundaries and never thought of touching it .

In the mean while our luggage were safely placed to our room . Aisha was already tired by

journey , so I dropped her to her room and instructed her complete her sleep . I will wake

her up at dinners time.

Then I tuned toward market side just to view the city .

An hour later , I went to Aisha’s room . She was still sleeping .

Awwo , that was so cute and innocent . Her dark brown hairs seem to cascade around her

shoulders in soft waves and her face looked so peaceful at that moment while she slept . I

could stand for rest of my life beside her , waiting Aisha to wake up . But , now it was

dinners time . I had to wake her up so , I gently tapped her shoulder …

She woke up mildly lifting her soft hands up and yawning in her kiddo voice . I helped her to

leave the bed by holding her hand and pulling it up . She was still in her half way of sleep . I

Showed her the way of washroom and then made myself comfortable in the couch beside

her bed .

Aisha came out from bathroom ….

Me : Come , enough sleeping … lets go out and eat something .

Aisha : ( yawning ) , I‘m not feeling that hungry . It would be better if I don’t do dinner .

Even I also not feeling hungry . I took some dosa when I went to the market .

Me : ok , fine and lets go to the beach and walk around .

Aisha : That would be perfect ( smile ) .

Then we walked near the sea shore . It was around 10 pm and the weather was awesome .

There was calmness and a cold breeze around everywhere . Hardly there were anyone

excepts few honeymoon couples, those too were busy in their stuffs .

I sealed her palm with mine and walked near the water. Her silk hairs were flying freely in

the air . I looked her eyes passionately and find her as a diva who has came down from the

heaven itself under the moon light to grant my wishes .

Still . I feel short of words when I cherish those moments . It was so like a poem ….

( Dedicated to Aisha and all who are in love )

Remember that sea shore ,

The silver was the sky ,

Twinkling stars far apart ,

Seems shining just for u an I .

That walking together along the shore ,

Hand in hand we go ,

The smile on your face ,

Mean to me my sphere .

Whispering the sea ,

Your love is so dear …

Roaming like nomads ,

With love in suffice ,

On the sea shore sand ,

World seems like paradise .

Just wanna close my eye

And feel always you and I ….

So pious this feels ,

It just makes me believe ,

I’m your and you are my ,

Love is what ?

Just you and I ….

We were walking along the shore without any words . It was so beautiful that we want to

catch every moments for always , just me and Aisha and the peace around us …

Then after a walk of few minute …

Aisha : Hey , look at that … it is so cute and beautiful !

( she pointed toward sand huts and some empty shell that must be gathered by the children

who used to come there to play ) .

You know , I have always dream to have a small house on the bank of shore , she told in her

kiddo tone .

( Aisha then run little ahead and started collecting those shells , while I kept standing

watching her little foot prints over the sand )

( After few second … )

Me : Hey , Aish … come here , I have got something for you !

( She ran back to me with snooping feet )

Me : You need to close your eyes for that surprise .

( She closed her curious eyes and stood in front of me . Then gently , I took out beautiful

pearl chain from the polybag which I bought for her this evening )

Me : OK , here we go …. I placed her silk hairs aside her shoulder and tied that chain from

behind .

( Initially , Aisha tried to sense it by touching it using her both hand … then gradually she

opened her eyes )

Aisha : ( surprised ) Woah … This is so unexpected , beautiful !!! when did get this for me ?

Me : ( naughty voice ) Darling when you were sleeping your man was working for you !!

Aisha : Can I give a hug to my man for this beautiful gift …

I stepped ahead and delicately clinched her palm , then heaved her little closer to me . So

close that her puff curves warmed my chest. My adrenaline got active as I could sense the

lustful emotion grabbing my mind . I Tucked her silky hairs over her ear and then made a

slight eye contact. For a second I felt that infinite sky has turned motionless overhead and

the restless boisterous waves got mute .

Aisha was looking calm . Though she was breathing heavily , I could feel the warmth around

my face . Then I took a deep breath ( slightly more than gasp ) and told to Aisha ….

“ Its been a long time we are together , It all started with the moment I had seen you for the

first time , it was a crush . Then … don’t know , I fell in love with you and now … you are my

life !!! Can , I see my future with you ? …. Aisha , I am in love with you “

Then I took a pause …

So far she was listening me patiently ... I confessed , now she was under the moon light . I

was scorning every moment for her reply . She stepped back and took her time . Then she

said …

“ Hmm …. You can , I too love you !! “

She scoff and made a huge laughter ….

I was in serious mood so couldn’t get this !!

“ Ale , dumbo …. Thank God !! You confessed finally , else … once I thought this wouldn’t

be possible for you in this life . Actually , I figured out your mind the day we meet in CCD

and then you made it even more clear in valentines day …. And now finally you managed to

tell me , nice attempt … All I was waiting to listen this by you , Aisha said laughing .

She tousle my hair again and kept laughing ….

When She was laughing , I thought … If she knew that I love her and she too love me since

months then why did she never told me . This could had been much simpler …

Seriously , all girls are the most typical creature of god … Even though if she would love you

madly , yet she wouldn’t confess in advance . It’s a boy who has to initiate .

Anyways, finally … I got comfort and felt light !

Aisha was till laughing …. Hey , I am glad that you confessed but that doesn’t mean that you

get the liberty for some rummy pummpy stuffs , make it very clear to your mind , Aisha just

warned me with pointing finger .

I agreed her condition as I had never thought of such stuffs .

Now , Aisha got normal , she stopped laughing . I was happy because finally after the failure

in CCD then valentines day, I managed to expressed her my feels . Though , she already

knew about it .

Now , it was around 12 … time really flies when you are with your sweetheart . At least now

I was officially eligible to call her my sweetheart . So this was an another take off of my love

story .

Soon , we got back to our room . Also , at morning we had to catch our trains . So proper

rest before that was must . However , I was still wondering that was that a dream . If it

would have a dream also I swear I wouldn’t have to wake up again ever . It was the finest

night of my entire life .

Back to home

The next morning we picked our trains and reached our hometown , all I was feeling like I

am a part of some adventurous video game where I have just dropped to some new world

or level . Till yesterday, there was no one around me except Aisha to talk, to take care and

today my entire family was in the door to welcome me.

Starting with my dad who had come to railway station to receive me, then my mother

standing at the main door with motherly eyes. But, the mostly eagerly waiting person was

my 13 year old little brother, chottu . He knew that I have got a new laptop by the college

and their we have super fast wifi . He had already mailed my a list of all recently launched

game and software months back and very often he keep reminding me in phone and chats .

Though I couldn’t get all what he said to me but managed to gather almost everything .

I got inside leaving the bags at some corner . I was not even settled properly and my mother

served me my favourite breakfast , idli sambhar … that only happens when you get back to

home after a long time . But that VIP treatment ends shortly after three ,four days .

I made myself comfortable on a sofa and attacked on the delicious food , it seems as if they

were saying .. Come on eat me , eat me !! I didn’t disappoint them and grab the spoon

immediately. On the other hand I had the TV remote. Perhaps this is a most amusing thing

for anyone who hasn’t seen TV for months. Soon after eating, I fell asleep .

When I woke up , I found my parents around me . It seems that they were most curious

people to know everything about my college life . Specially my mom , her question one after

other tired me soon . In the meanwhile I came to know I have lost some weight , my mom

this told me . I think this is a problem of all mummies that every time their children looks

somewhat thinner than previous time when they get back to home from hostel .

Starting with my roomies description to all about professors , I told everything to her . But ,

what I didn’t said was about me and Aisha . Obviously , every guy hesitate to speak up with

his parents about his girlfriend for the first time and that too when he has just passed 1st

year of engineering . I felt too short to tell anything to my parents .

Also , my dad was a strict man , only academics related stuffs goes straight into his head .

Love related things I have never heard in my family . I always scared , what if he got to know

about me and Aisha , would he shoot me right into my head !! or he would just throw me

out from the home ?? That all questions boggles me always when I think about it .

So , better I thought not to tell my parents and keep this secret as long as possible .

One night when I was watching Tv , chottu took my laptop as he had to copy all the games

of his list. He never takes my permission before using my things. I didn’t notice when he

turned on the lappi while my dad was siting beside him . The moment when I noticed was

too late .

A stylish pic of Aisha pooped as a wallpaper in my computer screen . That was the pic I had

captured the day when we had gone to CCD for the first time . Since then it was my

wallpaper. But , I forgot to change it in home . The next moment I don’t want to remember

… It was not less than a comic scene .

My little brother innocently said , “ I think I have seen this girl somewhere …. I like her !! “

I was astonished , thinking how does he knows …..

Then a second later …

“ She comes in Best of Luck Nikki “( tv show that comes in Disney channel , Monday to

Friday … night 10 PM ) , he completed unknowingly .

So far my dad was listening and watching everything very patiently . I turned my head

toward him , clicked my tongue and closed my eyes tightly . I was expecting some questions

then a nice trashing .

However dad just showed a mischievous smile and went off to his work . He passed me

without a single word , no frown eyes ….. nothing , not even a single sign of anger . Now, I

was confused and thinking … was that couple of months without me that has changed him

this much !! or he is gonna tell mom … and they together would take my class . I was

surprised and escaped at least for now .

The next morning around 7 AM , it was like a my mid night for me . Those 4 months had

changed me , once there was time when I used to get up sharp by 6 AM , now its easy to go

to bed by 6 AM rather than to wake up so early .

CLINK CLANG (something fell in kitchen) …. sounds struck my ear , mom was making

breakfast like usual days . My eyes got half open , it looks like my cell phone in dad’s hand .

OO OH … I stretched my arms , rubbed my eyes and wake up in jerk .

Yes , dad was holding my phone and looking it carefully .

OHH MY GOD !! what if he is checking my inbox , those 500 messages of Aisha would be

enough to get me killed . Those messages with lots of heart and kisses (emoticon) would be

crystal clear everything . How I could be so stupid . Mayank told me to clear inbox before

going home , but I forget . This is a heights of carelessness . Then the next moment I felt

instead of cursing myself it would be better to grab the phone before dad discover anything

else more fishy ( her pics ) and hide those stuffs .

I immediately rushed toward dad and said ( mumble ) .. “ Ca ca can I have my cell back for a

minute , there is something important to check in my mails .

“ Yeah sure , take it … I was just putting it into charge “ , he replied calmly .

“ And wait …. I was looking the screen !!! You should take care of your belonging , look how

much scratches you have made “ , he added this on a serious node .

I followed his words immediately got back to my room where there was no one else .

I scoffed and looked toward my phone and first of all delete those messages and hide her

pics . I was not sure whether dad had seen those messages or not , but this wasn’t turning

good .

I realised , I wouldn’t be able to keep the secret anymore and eventually it has to burst one

day as I was serious about her . So I decided to tell my parents . Probably this was the only

safest way . But the next question was HOW !!! How would I tell them ??

As I had always taken my dad as a strict person , I couldn’t think of even matching his eyes

while telling him about Aisha and the whole love matter . So telling to my dad was

impossible for me while telling to my bro was useless . The most safest option I was mom

only …

Mom had been always like a first friend for me . I have never hesitated to tell anything to

my mom . I was bit sure if I would tell her about Aisha then she wouldn’t mind and she could

even convince to dad . So I decided to pick mom and tell her everything though she must be

knowing something was going on between me and a girl . My late night calls had made that

much clear .

Since the moment I had decided to tell my mom , I was doing strange things , moving here

and there, trying to bring the subject up, trying to find right moment and situation. But I

wasn’t sure what the perfect moment was . All I know was I was nervous .

I think I was thinking too much , More than my brain could manage . Should I say this now ?

or should I wait for next minute ? But even after hours , I was still waiting .

Every time I was about to spill it out, something would happen : the telephone rang,

pressure cooker whistle, some guest knocks the door and if nothing else chottu call her for

his some work. The one moment when so such thing happened , I just couldn’t open my

mouth .

After lunch, somehow I gathered enough courage to initiate the dreaded conversation.

“Mom, how would you react if I would say I have a special friend”, I straight got into point as

it was do or die .

Mom smirked mischievously and replied … “Ooh special friend , the one who flashed in your

desktop or the one whose message you keep in your phone … ( She pause ) dear , or the one

with whom you went to CCD “ .

Oops …I forget about CCD thing . But how did she know about it , probably that card

payment message would have made this clear to her .

The next moment I asked her with puzzled face … “ So , you know what I mean to say ?”

She again replied , this time a bit serious tone … “ What do you think of yourself , You know

… Parents are smart , and what you don’t know is that they know what is going in your

minds . You don’t need to tell because I know everything .”

Really keeping secrets from parents is next to impossible . They can just read your forehead

and know everything .

“So , do you mind ?”, I asked her slickly next moment .

“ Umm… I wouldn’t mind neither your dad , if you go on moving with your studies on one

hand . Now , you are grown up, you can think for yourself . But always remember to keep

your studies as prior concern , at least for now .”She explained me.

I was listen her sensibly and following her word by word .

Then she naughtily said .. “ By the way me and your dad were also classmates”.

That brought a smile on my face and I was bit surprised , they never told this to me .

Then Mom asked frankly, “ So did this started in your case.”

I wondered if I should hide my face in the cushions or say ,”My story …!! I don’t have any

story “, before my mind told me , “ Come on you fool at least now speak up” .

Providentially, gathering all my shy courage , I narrated my story so far. I even showed her

Aisha pictures . I was expecting lot of ifs and buts from my mom , but nothing of that sort

happened .

My mom and dad were happy because instead of keeping secret I preferred to let them

know . This not only redefined openness between me any my parents but also showed the

level of understanding and compatibility I have with my parents .

But , before I left for Bhubaneswar on Saturday’s night dad told me “ Its fine that you got

space for a girl in your life , still you need think about studies more”.

“No issue , I understand your point dad” , I said him .

The next day I was in train for Bhubaneswar . I was happy , comfortable knowing that I had

finally told to my parents . Another milestone of our story crossed. My family had no

objection about me and Aisha now I just hope the same from her family also .

So far you have read my flawless love story where either of the character don’t have any

deadly disease neither there is any family issue nor there any entry of third party. In shorts

there seems no obstacles nor any problem. But obstacle are the requisites of great loves

story. Moreover a love is worthless if it don’t meets and overthrow the challenges.

Here also there are lots of challenges that would test the purity and depth of love. I hope

this would refine the meaning of love to you and think love is Forever Together.

Here began the next phase of my story ....

The First Monsoon Shower

We were back to Bhubaneswar after those summer vacation. Now it was the time to begin

new semester. For some the vacation hangover was still on while some thought to be

conscientious. I and Aisha decided to study this semester seriously together. Also I had the

pressure to lift my GPA , at least to 8 point.

Aisha told me about some Student exchange program under which every year the best

students of University gets the chance to continue their rest studies in abroad in reputed

institutes. All the high scoring student, mainly our geek companions were very excited about

it. Although, I knew we were out of their league still Aisha wanted to make a try for it as

there isn’t any harm for making efforts for good purpose. So , we decided to fill at least the

form for it .

It was Saturday after college hours when me and Aisha went to campus to submit our

consent for the program. The weather was fair. It was cloudy and gale since morning and

every now and then we were expecting the seasons first drizzle. So, intentionally we made a

plan for a walk after we finish that work.

I was filling the form while Aisha already filled. I was about to submit it and we heard the

rain droplets spattering the ground. Aisha immediately run toward the window and

stretched her arm as if she wanted to hold every rain drop. I knew Aisha’s list of wishes, and

dancing under the rain was one among them. Before she thought of doing this, I thought to

warn her. But before I could say anything to her, she ran toward OAT and started jumping in

the drizzle. I followed her way and noticed around, nobody was there in the corridor while

Aisha was dancing carelessly as if she wouldn’t have cared even if people were watching

her. The next moment she clinched my arm and took me too along with her.

Now, both were under the rain. Then whatever happened, it just happened by its own. I

turned her toward me watching her in wet kurti which was sticking to her skin. She was just

pooping up and down fearlessly with arms stretched like Christ, while I was seeing the

raindrop falling down on her forehead, running down her nose and finally resting on her lips

for a moment before slipping down her body. Her silky stands of hair were sticking with her

chicks. I brought her hairs behind her shoulder with my hand and started looking her

passionately.

I tried to keep my emotions in boundary, but with each breath my heart was pounding me

with pleasure. Then grab her into my arms, now I was able to smell the sweet cologne of her

body. She turned silent, I could hear her breath loud and clear. I felt as if she has done a

magic spell on me. I was so hypnotised by her that time.

Then I felt my lips behind her right ear and neck . “Mmm”, she murmured breathing heavily

.

Her passionate voice stimulated me further, now my hands were moving in her waist. She

was breathing faster now and shivering. Now , hardly she could resist me. Then I tilted my

head and felt my lips touching her soft, flawless lips while the tiny drops feeling like a song.

That was the passionate kiss which last for a while.

We were so lost each other when Aisha turned her face aside and said quietly “ People

might see us, so free your arms and lemme go”.

Ahh , the people !! I wish I could seal her in my arms forever . But I had to leave her as we

were drenched and need to change before we fell sick . So I dropped her into hostel and

thought not to tell anyone about this kiss. This was supposed to be secret between us.

After the whole day scattered shower, I noticed the rain had stopped while I came out in the

corridor to pick Aisha’s call. That night we kept talking, although nobody mentioned about

that kiss but back in my mind, it was recurring all the time. It was around 3 AM when I got

back to my room, still I was talking to her … then I don’t know when I fell asleep and started

dreaming.

The Change

Next day we went to the college together with hand in hand. But the scene of campus was

little surprising . People were whooshing here and there . Everyone seems quiet and

stressed . Some people were looking content, some were chanting god’s name. I don’t know

what happened there ? It was so strange …

I caught Pallak and asked about the matter. She said – “ Its result day !! “. The mid semester

marks has been reviled on the notice board . Me and Aisha were shocked . Nobody had any

prior information about it. It was just like a sudden outburst, but being KIITens we were

habitual of all such surprises. It wasn’t new there .

I clinched Aisha’s hand . She was looking nervous as she had the pressure to maintain her

streak of 9 point whereas for me , even a 7 point could doze with satisfaction. We knew , we

have done well in exam and now hoping for the good result . Fingers crossed …..

We moved to the notice board to view our result . The board was already surrounded by a

crowd like a honey comb coral , everyone were in hurry and egger to view their result . I

manage to get inside the comb and made some space for me too .

I turned toward Aisha’s side . She was looking fretful , she was so nervous that her eyes

were closed and fist were tighten . Now , I was looking her name ..... without much effort I

found her . My GOD !! She was on the third row from the top . AISHA SHARMA – CGPA : 9 . 1

! , I spoke aloud .

She heard and screamed with joy as she was one among the toppers this time also . I found

her happy like never before .

She was done , now it was my turn , hoping the glee continues now Aisha was looking for

my name , and there she got it . I was little below . My name was placed in 11th no. with

CGPA 7.8 . Though , it wasn’t very convincing , still it wasn’t bad too . I was content but

Aisha was little upset . I had good class work and probably that was the reason only why

Aisha liked me . But eventually it happened . Anyways , no hard feeling there . We went out

for the lunch and celebrated for our result .

In evening , me and Mayank were sitting in as usual our old adda - hostel mess . We were

best friends now. After all , he was my advisor and the Love Guru . The fever of result was

still on . We went on conversation .

Mayank : How was your result ?

Me : umm ... Not awesome . Just 7.8 !

Mayank : Not bad , but I think you deserve better ...

Me : May be ... I will work hard !

Mayank : That wouldn’t work actually ... Do you know the reason why your result was quite

down ?

Me : ( inquisitive face ) No . But , I think I didn’t prepare in a correct way .

Mayank : Come on bro ... Its not the way you prepare the fact is you didn’t prepare at all !

Its all Aisha ....

Me : ( disgusting tone) What ? How Aisha ?

Mayank : Wake up bro ! I am your room mate . Atleast , I knows everything !

I have noticed you Guys ... Although , you didn’t tell me but you both are in love ! All the day

, you both stays together and even in night , you engage yourselves in phone with her .

Tell me when did you study ??

Me : ( Dumbstruck ) Look , I don’t know the reason , but please don’t involve Aisha in this

matter . Next time you better watch me .

Mayank : ( unaided ) Your wish .... I was just trying to help you . Now , please ... Excuse me !

and Get well soon ....

The tea party was over . He ended up and went off . But why did he said – “ Get well soon “ ,

even though I was perfectly ok . I was puzzled for a moment . I was still trying to get those

words . Any how , it was too late , the mess was about to shut . So , I checked out .

It was a terrible day , everyone were talking about result and marks . That sucks specially

when you don’t have good grades to tell people .

At the end I propped with an awful mind . I was fade ufff ... by the people , huhhh ....

Moreover, I was not getting my diary , I had the habit of maintaining diary . It was in my bag

till we looked the result then I didn’t notice it .

Nokthing seems to be good happening around me .

It was 9 of night and I was laying on my bed hoping to get sleep soon .

Then all of a sudden , my phone rang , as usual it was Aisha on the line . Ohhh ... Thank God

! What a timing she had ..... I was glad because I wanted her that moment .

I picked it . Unlike other day , today she was looking dull . I think she wasn’t interested on

talking . Still she continued to refresh my mood , as she knew the scene behind it . She knew

, I was little doomed today .

Her big big lecture that usually used to hunt me , surprisingly made me feel better . She

helped . But I felt little awkward , there was something in her mind that wasn’t usual . She

was hiding something , I guess . It was very rare that I couldn’t even guess it . That means

there was something serious . But what ?? God knows ..... Now , I was irritating .... I broke

my patience and asked her – “ What’s matter ? Please ... let me know everything clearly ! , Is

there anything in your mind ? “

She was pretending as if - all is well . I felt her behaviour weird , so I forced her to make the

things clear and this time I went little harsh .

( sometime rudeness works )

She replied – “ All I want to say is , I think we should maintain some space . We are getting

addicted to the phone , I think its getting much . This isn’t good , control yourself .

I was confused and thinking , What the hell yar … you called me , hardly I call you now a day

.

Are you ok or its just one of your prank , I asked .

No I am serious this time . Its not just about phone call rather its about everything . Please

try to understand .... “

( She cut the line )

I was baffled. Millions of thoughts were raging my mind. Still , I was trying to connect the

matter . Though she could be right, but that time it was not easy to digest those words . This

was the first quarrel we had. But I knew Aisha’s behaviour … She was queen of split

personality, one in one moment and totally different in just other.

Every love life have spices that flavour its beauty. So somehow I took it casually. I thought, I

will discuss with Aisha when I meet her and sort out the matter. Then went to sleep.

Next morning , I woke up little late . May be its because of stress in night. I got ready within

a moment and rushed to the college . I forgot to pick up Aisha from the way and even she

also didn’t text me today. Actually , I thought she must have already arrived .

As I entered to the campus , things were looking chary. People were talking about me and

Aisha . Some were making fun while few were making punches on us .

For a minute I was confounded , I was not getting the things that were happening there ?

I went to Mayank and asked her about the situation .

Mayank ignominy told – “ You are caught !! I just got to know about your private trip to puri

. “

Love in the air, he nodded mischievously and turned back .

These stuffs are like viral fever in college , if one knows , everybody knows . But , how did it

happened , we didn’t tell to anyone !!! Perhaps there are some people who are really mean

, they can’t mind their own business rather they have interest on other’s life . I hate such

people . Though , there wasn’t any serious mess , still it was embarrassing .

It was ok from my side but from Aisha’s side it wasn’t a good deal . I knew , Aisha was a very

sensitive girl . Even silly things percept her deeply . Moreover we have decided not to tell

anyone about our whole love like matters , it was be just between she and me . And look ,

now everyone knows ….

I thought about her and immediately swift . I found her in the library sitting quietly alone in

a gloomy corner. Her head was down and sobbing . I understood she was traumatized by

the whole happening . I sat close to her and try to her .

Then I gently fondle her head to look into her eyes. They were tensed. I placed my hand on

her shoulder. She jerked it away in shock and turned away her face. My heart was sinking

for Aisha . I was sitting helpless beside her.

Then I cupped her face, she whispered softly – “ Go away , leave me alone for some time “ .

I could feel the ache in her voice . I understood she need some time alone . Then I saw her

roomies Jaya and Pretti coming to her . I thought they could heal her as they were most

intimate to her . So , unwilling I left her with them . Perhaps this was the only thing I could

do in her favour that time .

Now , it was second half of the session . We had BMS lab . I knew Aisha was little disturb

but she couldn’t miss the class . LAB were always important , we were not suppose to bunk

it . So , I was hoping that she would come and I was waiting for her only . After all I need to

talk her . It was urgent .

My hope was spot on . She came with her roomies . I think , her dejection was continue .

Her face was telling everything . She passed me calmly keeping hesitant eyes on me . I was

worried for her and desperate to talk once . So purposely I took my table beside her . Still ,

she was quiet . I think occasionally it happens , because I knew her peculiar behaviour She .

talks more often when she remains upset . Moreover this was the only lab that we enjoys

most , so her behaviour was quite eccentric . I felt as if her voice has lost somewhere .

She had eyes on her works and pretending as if she couldn’t even listen anything . My

edginess for her raised up . She could see how much I was worried for her , still she ignored

and continue her filing .

Soon , her face puffed to red , sweat was dripping below her lobes . She was tired ,

obviously , BMS is all about physique and hard work . She was a spongy doll , unlike

Engineering Graphics it wasn’t a feather touch . Still , I knew she wouldn’t ask for help ( girls

always have ego problem , it is boy only who surrender first ) .

So , I readily stretched my hand to help her , but she stepped back . I said – “ Baby , give it

me .... I will do it for you , go and have some water you are tired enough “ .

But she didn’t respond , she was lost in her work . Now , I was loosing my patience . I

clinched her hand and took her hexsaw . The next moment was tragedy , she surprisingly

screwed and shouted – “ Leave me alone , I can do it myself ... what you think of yourself ,

go and mind your own business “ .

I was bamboozled for a while , even the people around us were in shock and gazing us with

amaze eyes . Aisha was known for her soft vocal and pleasant personality . This attitude

wasn’t obvious for anyone .

I felt little embarrassing .. What’s wrong with Aisha ? I was just trying to help her ! God

knows , what happened to her .... what was running in her mind ! Better she knows only .

But what she did was rude and I feel insulted .

Though I could have answer her , but it would have made the issue even more worse . It

was better to leave instead of extending the matter . So , I left the class on the half way and

came out .

In the evening , it was a tea time . The was still thinking about the today’s whole happening

on Lab . I felt suffocating and dying to evaluate Aisha’s mind . I was all alone in the room . It

was a good chance to talk with Aisha and sort out everything . I called her immediately .

Me : Hello ... ( gently ) Hello Aisha , may I talk to you once ?

Aisha : Yeah , hey I am sorry ... I am really guilty for what I did today in BMS .

Me : (casually) neva mind ! But, what happened ? how did u became so furious all of a

sudden .... I was just trying to help you . That’s it !

Aisha : I know ... and I just hate people around us . They are making stupid rumours about

you and me .... Why did you tell everyone about us ??

Me : (shockingly) Hey , hey …. I didn’t tell anyone about us . In fact , I’m also searching for a

guy who did this .

Believe me , I really care about you , why would I do this ?

Aisha : ( jadedly ) Really !! But you told to Pretti , Isn’t it ? Please don’t lie and be honest at

least with me .

Me : No , I didn’t even tell her … Few days back , you remember we went for coffee

together , that day I discussed with Pretti about your likes and dislike . The coffee you

prefer, the cookies you like . That’s all …

I just wanted to gift a memorable day to you , so I took her help .

I didn’t knew that she would get inkling about us. More ever the growing closeness between

you and me is pretty much obvious to everyone that we like each other .

So , believe me … I didn’t tell to anyone , but eventually it got spread up by own .

Aisha : umm … I didn’t know this , I feels you are right .

I think I convinced her .

Me : (sigh) Now , people knows about us … Take it casually , its very common and about the

rumours …

( politely ) Darling , I don’t care about the people . I care only about you ! I don’t mind

peoples words . It just doesn’t matter to me .

Aisha : Scoff .. But it matters to me !! Look , this whole love stuff … I have never imagined

that it would happen with me and now when its happening , I feel its so weird .

Me : What’s weird dear , tell me . Let’s figure it properly .

Aisha : Are we in relationship ? Preeti told me what it has to be in relationship , certainty

this isn’t that thing I have ever wished for myself .

The word “ girlfriend “ is not meant for me . I don’t like it and I told you about it even earlier

also . So , I don’t wanna discuss about it anymore .

Me : Relationship !! I don’t know what does it actually means to you …

But I like to see the things in simple way , I feels good talking to you and your presence

around me makes me happy . I wants to be with you forever. This is a meaning of

relationship for me .

Aisha : (sigh) That’s fine , even I also wants to be with you .

But look , this isn’t the purpose for which we are here . Our parents send us so far with lots

of hopes , we just can’t ruin their wishes by engaging ourselves with this whole love stuff .

how can we become so selfish ?

Me : (politely) I totally agree with you … But being together doesn’t makes us selfish . I’m

doing my job and you too .

Aisha : Ooh Really !! Tell me what are you doing to peruse your dream ?

I know your future plans . You are so passionate for technical stuffs , but it seems that

purpose has gone out of your life . I have your diary , I knows what it matters to you .

I was listen her carefully and got to know that my diary is with her . Her logic was making

sense to me . Then she became quiet.

After a silence of a minute.

Me : So , what you want ?

Aisha : I am telling you to start making priorities , focus for the purpose for which you are

here .

Start working on your dream. I’m nowhere rushing.

I will be always around you, with you, for you ! Lets move toward a constructive

relationship.

Me : hmm… correct !!

I was still thinking about her words and she cut the line.

I was feeling very sleepy but somehow my mind was flunked in the chat, Aisha influenced

me with her words. Her caring attitude left a new mark in my heart. That night I realised

that I’m with someone who is not also pretty but also mature.

A Step Apart Academics

Few days has been past since the result was declared . Now everything was back to normal .

I heard that Aisha has joined Chorus ( a singing society ) . I knew she has a great singing

talent , such society was a good platform to harvest her potential . More ever putting own

self in such kind of recreational work apart studies is a good move .

Even I was also thinking to do something . As technical stuffs were my area of interest , so I

decided to go for an internship in ROBOTICS . Although once I thought – “ Am I taking

Aisha’s last lecture seriously !! “ . But soon I felt that its my own call when Mayank told that

he would join me .

In evening I went to TBI cell , the place for internship in the University premise . After all

procedural formalities, I got a team for the project , two girls and a boy . Suruchi , Riya and

Sudhanshu these were my team mates . All were unacquainted with each other . Though

Suruchi and Riya were looking quite familiar with each other .

They were sitting beside each other and talking as if they are goodies . I was sitting behind

Suruchi , beside Sudhanshu . While the girls were chatting , I was busy in observing

everyone’s appearances.

Suruchi was tall , petite . Her long hairs and fair complexion was adding her elegance with

salwar . Riya seems metro girls with tough tone . She was short and little bulky ( sorry riya )

and the guy beside me …. Sudhanshu , geek and book ass , he was looking the most brainy

one among all of us .

I was looking to him when he was busy in his phone , playing candy crush . Then he asked

me … “ Can I borrow your laptop for a minute !!” . Being a nice guy , I offered him my

Laptop immediately . Then a minute later he started doing some programming work in my

DOS Shell . I have never seen this before . He was doing some strange things . I scared , I was

not getting it . All that looked familiar was the clacking sound of keys which he was hitting

hard at high frequency .

I thought to take my machine back , but hesitating to say .

“ Don’t worry bro , I am not a bad ass . Just a minute more and you will have your machine

back “ , he told me with gruff tone . Then a minute later , he uttered some high level

technical line and handed my laptop to me .

I was dazed , he has just changed my PC password . What a freaking impish guy !! the first

impression I made about him .Suruchi and Riya turned their head back too . They too were

shocked and a bit impressed by him . This broke the cold and we got introduction about

each other .

Later in hostel I got to know about Sudhanshu in details. He was a CS ( computer science )

student . Though he started with Electronics engineering . But due his exceptional expertise

in computer , he was transferred to CS branch .

I told about him to Piyush and Mayank , they started laughing on me . They were enjoying

on my situation when I got trapped in a prank by a guy in front of two girls . He got the

attention of the girls while I was feeling myself as his prey . But on some side I too was

impressed by his work . I mean what do you call a person who would hack you PC in a first

meet . Obviously , you would never thought to meet him again . But ,who knew that this

guy would turn to best friend soon . The only thing about which I need to be careful was

never ever let him touch my PC again .

The Bonding

Now , I have engaged myself in a tough timetable , college in morning and internship in

evening . I was packed in time bound . Aisha too had her own works , singing rehearsal after

college hours . Our meeting has minimised since a week . Apart college we barely meet each

other , just a phone call at night was keeping us in touch .

But I didn’t fell it hard , as I was getting inside a new friend circle . Now , our team started

taking its shape even outside the Lab . We four were turning into good friends . We do fun

learning inside and outside the lab . Suruchi and Riya were the combo pack , we always find

them together . Me and Sudhanshu always used to taunt them for this . Once , I even

started thinking that they are lesbian . I told this Sudhanshu and he told this to Riya . That

was it , who says a girl punch doesn’t it !! My stomach still pains when I think about it . But ,

isn’t wasn’t enough …

The next day Riya and Suruchi came with a hunk guy . That was Riya’s boy friend . She

introduced him with me and Sudhanshu . But she specifically pointed to Aryan as her boy

friend when she came to me . Sudhanshu picked up the matter why Riya has brought her

hero today , he started laughing . Suruchi was also giggling behind Riya’s back and Riya too

had a chuckle on her face .

I got the scene , and felt myself as a prey of prank , the only difference was this time it was

Riya who did this to me . Everyone except Aryan started laughing , I felt like awkwardness

and about to apologise but couldn’t say anything . I stood there with shameful face whereas

Aryan was confused about the whole happening .

Later when we were in canteen , Riya told him about the matter … we all together started

laughing once again. Aryan was a really cool person and also joined our gang . Though , he

was from Electrical branch but often appears with Riya outside the campus .

I enjoyed working with all together . It was a great going specially outside the work . After

working hours , me and Sudhanshu used to drop them to their hostel . Sometimes we used

to sing in the way , sometimes just hoff . Actually , Suruchi had the peculiar walk like hoff ,

so we used to tease her by imitating her walk .

I still remember the lame jokes of Sudhanshu on Riya and then her nice punches on him .

Sometimes me and Suruchi used to tell him the bin bag of Riya .

After all day hectic workout, I propped to bed and hardly it takes a minute to fall asleep.

Rival is back

The last few weeks had been splendid for me . I had never meet such people , turned into

best buddies . The things were happening very fast , every new day brought a new doze of

fun and excitement .

The life was rushing so rapidly that I almost forgot to think about Aisha . The last time I

talked with her was a week ago . She too was busy these days in her rehearsals . Many times

I tried to catch her in college after classes . But she had always some or other works to do . I

heard she was practising for some audition , Pretti told this to me .

The next day was Sunday and it was off for me . I thought to surprise Aisha , I knew she had

rehearsal in evening . I planned to catch her after her session and took her for a dinner .

Long time had passed since we had spent time together. Probably, this was the best way to

recall old days. Also , this was important to refresh Aisha’s mind . Pretti told me that she was

going through some tough time these. So , a plan for dinner would be perfect .

Sunday …

A got up around 12 pm . The last night went sleepless . I was planning dinner with Aisha but

came up with nothing . We already had so many outings together that I hardly had any more

surprises for her . So ,this time I thought to be little simple , no gift just some sweet

moments with her .

I went out from hostel on time . In the way I bought a rose for her . I knew she must be

annoyed with me as I left her alone these days . So , a rose would work . Aisha was very fond

of flosses, she couldn’t resist any flowers . Then a chocolate would be awesome , I knew she

would share with me so I took the bigger one .

Soon , I was in front of Aisha’s venue , waiting outside for her . Every time I meet Aisha, I just

try to portray best of me, I was looking my hair, checking my dress and glancing my wrist

watch every now and then as I don’t had anything else to do while waiting. Then a minute

later…

I saw Aisha Steeping down the stairs. Her glossy hairs were bouncing up and down as she

was stepping down bit by bit. I thought these day which we have spent without each other

has added some new allure in her charm. I steeped back to hide myself and say “ boo “ to

Aisha from back .

But the next thing what I saw was awful, Rohan came from somewhere behind running

down the stairs. Now, both Aisha and Rohan were treading together side by side. Rohan

took Aisha’s handbag and now they were tittering on some stuff.

A moment ago I was thinking to surprise Aisha, but this time she surprised me . How could

she think of meeting a guy who had left her in the mid of contest. More ever she knew

about her faking personality. Still … WHY !!!

While I was reasoning these questions in my mind, Aisha saw me. The big smile on her face

was enough to tell that she was happy to meet me. She walked toward me and gave a

delicate hug. Then the introduction process went….

Rohan… Meet Ashutosh, my first and best friend here, Aisha told blissfully.

They both chucked while I was thinking in some corner of my mind …. Just friend , huh !! ,

then I too smirked just not to be weird for that moment. I stretched my arm to shake hand

with him. Sometime you have to do thing even though you don’t want. I just hope he

wouldn’t have noticed my fake smile while saying him … “ Nice to meet you buddy” .

“Same here , by the way I am Rohan” , he smirked and said.

I just hate his show off attitude.

“ Hey , Aish … excuse me , something has come up … I’ll catch you later”, he told looking

down his expensive phone.

“ Yeah … yeah , sure “ , I replied him immediately as if I was waiting for this only . Whereas

in my mind …. I wish I could just leave him in any strange Island from where he could never

come back again.

Rohan said us good bye and left us alone. Now, I was hoping to get my answers . But before

I could have asked her anything ….

Aisha : ( heatedly ) What’s wrong with you ?? Why were you acting like a weirdo ….. as, as if

he is your old enemy .

Me : Yeah, I hate him …. By the way , What’s wrong with you ?? ( angrily ) Why are you

shouting on me …. You forget what he had done to you ?

Aisha : No … But, it was past . Now, he is change and he is my friend and please get this

straight into your head.

I didn’t know why Aisha was reacting this way . She had never been so loud on me , perhaps

she was already in bad mood before this happened. Then I remind Preeti’s word that Aisha

was facing some tough time .So , I just calm down and thought to finish the conversation

politely .

Me : (calmly) look baby, I was just telling you because I care for you . I don’t want that

anyone, not just Rohan … Anyone ditch you again. Else , its nothing personal between me

and him.

Aisha : I get it … but please stop interfering in my personal life . You don’t need to think so

much about me !! I’m grown up and I can think for myself ….by the way , Rohan is my

singing partner !!

Me : ( surprisingly ) WHAT … you didn’t tell me !!

Aisha : Yes , I didn’t tell you because I knew you wouldn’t have understand …. Now, stop

over reacting !! and give me some space .

This was the heights of my patience. I was trying to be polite with her but every moment she

was pushing me back. Now, I felt there was no point of talking to her specially when she

don’t even comprehend me properly.

Me : Ok fine … I think we should go now , you must have tired . Anyways …. This is for you (

pointing that rose toward her ) .

From your friend side or I should say …. “ Just Friend “ , I told her sarcastically reminding her

the way she introduced me with Rohan.

Aisha took the rose, though I found her a not interested attitude . Her eyes were frown, face

was blank . She just grabbed it and walked, while I still remained standing there looking

toward Aisha . I was thinking how long she would keep that rose in her hand. However she

carried it until she was visible to me . After she got disappeared , I also marched back to my

hostel . The dinner got cancel, though I still had the other option – mess . But I thought to

stay hungry .

I understand that there might come some distance between us as we were not interacting

with each other much. But throughout I tried to be in touch with her. I told her about

Suruchi , Riya , Sudhanshu , our work , our bonding …. About everything !! But Aisha didn’t

feel important to do so, she took me in wrong way .

That night neither Aisha called me nor I called her . Perhaps, this was the first night since I

had proposed her that passed without buzzing our phone even once also .

The Technical Stuffs

Few days passed, I got back to my work. Since that clash, we didn’t talk. I always used to

surrender in front of Aisha and apologise even if I’m not guilty, but not this time. I had

decided that the only thing that would made me think about her was apology ….. from her

side.

Still I care for her and my love wasn’t affected, the thing that I wanted was little more trust

and respect. So, she had to apologise for her words. When we were not talking with each

other, I was in touch with Pretti, she kept updating me about her. Rohan was a guy whom I

couldn’t trust. Though Aisha didn’t mind to hang up with him most of the time. But I always

had my doubtful eyes on him.

“One more cheat and I swear, he would lose his face, along with that …. Show off attitude

!!!”, I told this to Pretti.

She laughed like hell… Perhaps she knew that his size was double than me and any bang

with him would cause permanent damage to me. Also, it was my kiddo face that made

people think that I couldn’t fight. Whatever …. But, keeping Aisha safe was my

responsibility.

On the other side, my team along with me had decided to participate on IIT Kharagpur Tech

Fest , Asia’s largest technical event. All we had to do was - build a gesture control Robot that

could sense the hidden mines and rescue the hostage from the arena. Sounds cool ?

Yeah… but equally difficult, but we had the best mind in our team – “Sudhanshu”, a guy who

could do almost anything overnight. Probably this was the only thought which made us to

think about the completion.

Soon after a team meeting, we divided our task , Suruchi ; dealing with programing part ,

Riya ; handle circuit interfacing , me ; circuit designing, Sudhanshu ; coding and power unit …

Though no one was the boss, but Sudhanshu was the lead member in the project. Whereas

Riya wouldn’t stop dominating everywhere, that is taken by default.

Once we got the job, everyone stick to their work. We didn’t had much time. Suruchi and

Riya were working together as they remain together every time. Also, they were roomies so

they could progress much things in their room itself. Whereas me and Sudhanshu were

looking together most of the portion.

A week cut throat effort had completely flushed Aisha from my mind. I didn’t even told her

about my participation neither I was in touch with Preeti. But I heard, she too was busy in

practice and she was going to rock in the concert.

Soon the day before we had to leave for KGP , our project was completed.

A Trip to IIT KGP

It was a Wednesday of October month, the day when we had to leave for KGP. Riya had

taken care of all the train reservation work. All the packing and testing work had been done

before one night. We had the spare parts for everything. This event was very important for

each one of us as we had signed an undertaking for it, also we were going to miss our mid

semester exam. So, make it count was the purpose for all.

We had decided to meet at Atma ram square at 12 : 30 pm as the train timing was an hour

later. But, the things never goes the way you plan always. It was fifteen minute already

delay when we meet each other.

Suruchi was looking as if she was going to stay there forever, as she had the largest bag

whereas rest we had packed just for 3 days. Once I thought to yell upon her but we were

already later so saved it for later.

Sudhanshu called an auto rickshaw and everyone settled there quickly. Now, the first

competition was with time, reaching station on time !! Though the driver assured that he

would drop us on time, but everyone were in panic situation. Riya’s ear-splitting words … “

Bhiya , faster, faster…” forced the driver to maximise the speed.

Suddenly in the half way, I blared – “ Bhiya stop …“

Everyone turned their jolt eyes toward me. “What now ?”, Riya told loudly facing toward

me.

( The rickshaw stopped coarsely )

I made the puppy eyes and said – “ I forgot my I card .“

“What, I card is a most important thing. No I card means no entry , DON’T U KNOW THAT

FOOL !!” Suruchi said banging my shoulder harshly.

“Now what ??”, both the girl said in koras.

“Take the U turn … simple !!”, Sudhanshu replied very calmly.

That day for a second, I felt that he is my true friend whereas both the girls kept yelling on

me.

The driver made a sharp U turn and said – “ Now I take my assurance back .“ This frightened

us even more. However there was no other option, we ran back to hostel. Then I took my I

card and sat back to auto rickshaw. Now, we all were screaming upon driver – “ Faster

bhiya, faster …..“

Finally after that reckless driving we reached to station safely around 2:00 PM. Then we

took our belongings and rushed toward the platform.

A minute later, an announcement – “ Train no. 1840 , from BBSR to KGP is running late by 1

hour , we are deeply regretted for your inconvenience .”

“ Thank God “ was the first expression from all of us. I had never enjoyed this much when

my train got late before this. Riya got so happy that she jumped in air saying … YES YES ,

YIPEEE !! then made some awful face that nobody can mimic when some passengers turned

toward with strange eyes. We all got happy and finally inhaled an air of peace.

“God saved you today, you are really lucky … else I would have killed you if we miss the train

!!”, Riya said comically pointing toward me.

Even I smirked and replied, “ Yep, I just got save from you ! “

Then we placed our bags together in one place and started taking with each other.

“ OMG , I forgot “, This time Suruchi shrieked.

“ Oh not again, please don’t tell you too forgot your I card “, everyone said together.

“ NO NO ! I just left my brush … “, she nodded funnily.

We all laughed together … its very rare that we find Suruchi humours .

Well, I was not sure about the completion but I was sure about one thing that was …. Its

going to be Rocking. The only thing that I was missing a bit was Aisha . I wish she would

have came to see off me, but the cold war was still on.

Anyways, no hard feelings … Still there was some time left, Sudhanshu went to pack the

lunch for everyone whereas I went in search of brush for Suruchi in the platform. The both

girls remain standing taking care of bags.

It was around 10:30 PM when we reached at KGP. We took an auto rickshaw and dropped

straight in the entrance of IIT Campus, a place that might become dream for anyone even at

a glance. The entrance was beautified by neon and chandlers with a huge welcome board

hanging up in a tree.

We took our bags and started following the direction signs toward registration desk. It was a

km far, everyone were already tired specially Suruchi, she had the heaviest bag. After the

walk of few meters, she sat childishly in the mid of the road and said … “ I can’t walk any

more !“

“Do more packing, you thought its gonna be picnic … now suffer !!”, Riya replied spitefully .

Riya was frustrated since we stepped in the campus. Those never ending signs were

boggling her. But the coolest guy seems calm, Sudhanshu took Suruchi’s bag and pulled her

up. “ Ohh !! The gentleman spirit “, I said mischievously .

Riya too starting grinning behind me.

Then again we started walking. It was the winter season, the cold was in its height. We all

were shivering, but there were also some girls walking in the road with fully waxed leg that

too in shorts, looking at them I said naughtily “Guys, I think my fb friend list will increase

here ! “

Suruchi smirked and replied – “ Probably that would be your reward “

After the walk of a mile, we reached to the registration desk. As we all had our ID card in

handy, hardly it took a minute to register in the event and we got our rooms. For girls, it was

Gym Khana and for us, LBS hostel.

We dropped girls in their place and walked toward our stay. When we reached, few people

were already there. It was supposed to be a room for 3 person but already occupied by 8

people. There was no place for us, we just placed our bags and came out.

I stood at the front corridor and trying to experience, how does it feels to be an IITian.

Believe me, it isn’t as wonderful as it appears. It was a geek’s place where you would find

people always talking about machines and laws. Then I saw Suruchi calling Sudhanshu, as he

was in washroom I picked her call.

Suruchi : Hey Suuu, got your room ?

I was bit surprised, since when did Suruchi started caring this much about us or more

specifically Sudhanshu – “Suuu”.

Me : hey, Suruchi …. Ashutosh here, your sudhanshu (naughtily) is in washroom .

Suruchi : oo oh ( hesitatingly ) , fine … how’s your room .

Me : Room is fine, but it don’t have space for us, three bed is occupied by 8 people.

Suruchi : Ohh , that’s terrible. Here also the scene is somewhat similar plus mosquitoes. So,

what you gonna do now ?

Me : Umm … about Sudhanshu, I don’t know but I’m gonna watch a movie in my laptop.

Suruchi : Hey, we wanna join you, lets have a movie party.

Me : cool, will pick you from your hostel.

Suruchi : (mischievously) Sudhanshu would be coming na ?

Me : (naughtily) Seems you are more interested in sudhanshu than movie. Don’t worry, he

will come.

As she cut the line, I explained the plan to Sudhanshu then we left to pick up them.

There was a beautiful lawn that we had seen while coming. We took a corner of that and

played Iron Man – 3. I knew, Sudhanshu had already seen that movie many time but he

didn’t argue. May be because it was Suruchi’s choice. Something was happening between

them. Soon Riya and Sudhanshu fell asleep while I and Suruchi were still awake till 4 AM.

We got up when we saw few people jogging in the road. I still wonder when I think about

that day, how we managed to watch a movie whole night under moon light and that too in

winter.

Now, it was the show time. We were assembling the BOT before launching it in event. We

had spent many sleep nights working for it. All were excited for this moment and finally

when it came we were yawning specially me. The sleepless night had jammed my brain.

Consequently, I connected the battery in reverse polarity !! That was it, we were finished

that moment, think about a load powered by 3000 mAH lipo battery in reverse polarity. The

entire circuit boom with a bright blue spark.

“ Ooh Shit !! what have I done “, I screamed loudly while everyone’s eyes turned toward me.

No one said anything because that would be useless. The things were pretty clear, we were

out of the completion because we had nothing left to compete now. Though Sudhanshu

tried his best to fix up the circuit again but it didn’t work.

All were sad and numb, the months effort of everyone got useless. Specially me, I couldn’t

end up without cursing myself for creating this mess. However I felt a very supporting

response of my team mates. Nobody seems harsh to me, perhaps it was our friendship and

bonding that was far above than this competition.

As the purpose of being there was finished, the same day we thought I take tatkal ticket and

get back to BBSR.

The divergent

It was Saturday when we got back to BBSR. We were discussing to hire a cab, when Riya

showed me someone. I saw Aisha was waiting for someone in Scotty at the parking stand.

Her white top and blue jeans (a perfect fit), a light shade of pink lipstick. Her hair was untied

which she used to keep just on my demand.

I understood that she was there for me but ignored her and walked further with Riya. Then

a second later… “ So you are still going to come us ?”, she questioned me with smirk.

“Yeah … I mean, if she didn’t bother to see off me then why she has come to receive me ?”, I

replied.

She gasped and said “Look dude, I too have a boyfriend … Even I don’t mind when he shows

me attitude , but what you are doing is too much. At least respect her, she has come here

from all the way just to receive you. Go with her !”

Her words made sense to me, but my impish mind was saying … “little more”, I mean resist

until and unless she don’t insist. Then I passed her as if I didn’t notice her, a moment later,

she clinched my arm from behind and said … “ This way ”, pointing toward her scotty.

“ Ohh Really !! and why would I go with you “, I replied her with arrogance.

“Because I insist, please …. I have something important to tell you !”, she said politely.

When Aisha plead, I feels attracted toward her. Now, my minds was also saying - go with

her. Suruchi too sneer and showed me thumbs up. She gave me the keys and smiled. I was

very excited to share these three days experience with her. I even made the diary entry of

each event to catch every memories. Once I thought that I wouldn’t be able to resist my

words. So instead of going to hostel I turned toward the campus.

I knew, it was a half day and I would easily get any vacant room where me and Aisha can

have chit chat. We found a class that was vacant and open, we got inside it.

Now my miss beautiful was in front of me. Her smile revealed how delighted she was to see.

I kept my bag one side while she came close to me and said – “ Before you say anything, I

have something important to tell you “.

I got impatient and said, “What ?”

She handed me a paper and sat on a chair.

It took few minutes to figure out what it was, but when I got to know … My happiness

multiplied million time. “ It was a call letter from SOEL University, South Korea under

student exchange program.

I was so glad that Aisha got this opportunity. I asked her, “why didn’t you tell me before ?”

“I tried your number many times but couldn’t connect”, she replied.

May be there could be some network issue, but now when I’m familiar I just wanted to hug

her with joy.

However there was no sign of cheer on her face where I was going mad in joy for her, she

wasn’t looking that excited, she kept facing as if it didn’t matter her much. Then I clinched

her arm and asked – “Are you not happy with this ?”

Aisha : (Impassively) I’m happy . But, you know … what does this cost !! Missing friends,

family and… and YOU.

Her voice was shaking. I understood the reason for her … being not so happy ! Oops, that

was the other side which I didn’t thought even once. Even I got dishearten for a moment,

but I didn’t matter much, the happiness was much more than that slight pinch.

I got close to her grab her palm and said blissfully… “ Hey ! This is a lifelong opportunity,

every sacrifice is worth for it ….. Come on, tell me when are you leaving ?”

She got up and moved toward window, pushed it open.

Aisha : ( gasp ) Today’s evening I will be leaving for Nagpur, there is some passport work

pending then next week I have the flight, papa will take care of the remaining formalities

here.

In other way, she meant this was our last meet. Now I was shaken, it didn’t remain a slight

pinch any more. Now I was confused whether I should be happy or sad as Aisha was going to

leave me by next 3 hours … may be forever this time !!

Sometimes life tricks you where you feel yourself as a puppet. Till yesterday I was so excited

to meet Aisha, grab her in my arms and tell her everything about my experiences. And

today ….. I wasn’t even sure when would I meet her again, or whether would I meet her

again ever !! So far, I was pretending to be strong … strong enough to guide her. But after

this, even my tears rolled down.

But I had to control myself else looking my tears Aisha would hurt even more. I rubbed my

tears and looked toward her.

The chilling cold winds has rubbed her tear drenched face. She had been whimpering. This

even broke me apart. I could see she was feeling very difficult to hold tears in her eyes that

were ready to fall.

Aisha…what’s you doing ?, two hands engulfed her in and hug.

All … is well dear, now please don’t make it hard for me too. I perked her forehead.

I took a pause, then said …” You, remember … Once you asked me about the meaning of

relationship to me, I think today I can answer ….. I think relationship is all about caring for

other selflessly. Please, don’t feel sad at least for me. I want you to go and make your

opportunity count….. till then I will for you.”

She was listening me carefully with occasionally humming sound … “hmm !”

Soon her patience broke and tear dripped from her eyes. She splashed water over her cold

face . She was shivering now but tears failed to turn less from her swelled up eyes. Her eyes

filled up each time when she says a word.

My heart was sinking for her, I wish … I could console her by anyway, but there was time

constrain. She had train after 3 hours and still she had some packing left. I dropped her till

the bike promised her to catch soon.

I came back to hostel. I was dwelling between happiness and sorrow. On one side I was

thinking, now Aisha would have better opportunities and a secure future ahead whereas I

wouldn’t be there to be a part of her celebrations. My eyes filled up each time I read her

past messages. I mouthed aloud punching the wall as I failed to fight over my tears my

heart. I could feel my feet shaking, losing their grip on ground. I started rushing here and

there.

However the other thought recalled me all the things that she had done for me. Throughout

this journey she was with me to listen my problems, share my happiness and divide sorrow.

Now, it was my turn to do something in her favour. So, I just thought to be with her till the

last moment that with smiling face, no matter how hard it would be.

I knew my sad and tear drenched face wouldn’t haunt her even in my absence. She would

blame herself and never get over by me. Perhaps, a happy good bye would ease her way.

Then I washed my face, I didn’t want Aisha to look scared and pale face. A tear was still in

my eyes. I wiped it off, taking a deep breath and putting a false smile on my face.

Now Aisha was leaving for station, I was supposed to be with her till her leaving. I left from

hostel, she was going to meet me at Atma ram square. I knew this would me my last meet

with her yet nothing struck my mind to surprise her. I was just looking straight in my way

trying to make contact with the outside world. Soon I reached the place where Aisha was

going to meet me.

But strange …. She was nowhere around. Then I heard a voice from the other side of road. I

turned curiously hoping to get Aisha. But that was Preeti.

She walked toward me and handed me a bag,” This is from Aisha for you “, she said and

stood beside me. I took it carelessly as my eyes were searching to Aisha. When I didn’t find

her anywhere around, I just open the bag nosily.

There was a pearl chain which I had gifted to Aisha and a letter attached with it. I took out

that letter curiously and started reading …

Dear love,

I never thought I would be writing you this letter. I’m sure when you will get this letter, I

wouldn’t be there around you. The fact is I will be sitting somewhere in my train and

thinking about you. I’m sorry … I didn’t tell this before, but believe me it would be

impossible for me to walk over while looking at your eyes. Probably this is only way to make

things happen.

I know, it wouldn’t be easy for you to move on. But I believe life has compensate everything.

I want you to move on and focus on the things that are more important. Promise me you

will do it.

The chain that you had given is a dearest gift that I have ever received from anyone, but I

don’t deserve to keep it if I can’t rest beside you.

Please, don’t take me in other sense … it is your memories that I am going to keep with me

always. My heart feels your pain, though I’m not near still I feels you beside me. I know I

would not see you around anymore but I will feel my love around my love around you. I

know I wouldn’t forget the way we walked across the beach with the sound of love playing

in our hearts.

I will remember all your memories….

And I know you will too…

Will miss you my love

Your Aisha

I was still in shock, wondering if all that was real or just a nightmare and that when I woke

up I would find Aisha beside me. I felt suffocating. I was trying to breathe in as much as

possible. I tried to speak, but my mouth was dry. It was tearing me apart into loneliness. I

didn’t even get the chance to kiss her forehead before leaving her forever. A dead silence

persisted in my ear.

Now Aisha has gone, but her memories will be always with me. Not a single day has passed

when I haven’t thought about her once. But this is the irony of life, there is no one strong

enough has made in front of destiny. Not every love story has happy ending but what I have

learn is –

“It’s not important to be together in love rather its important to feel togetherness even if

you far away from each other. ”