“The first stab of love is like a sunset, a blaze of color -- oranges, pearly pinks, vibrant purples...”

~ Anna Godbersen

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It was an absolute despair.

Each of her words pierced his soul. He couldn’t understand where exactly he had gone wrong. Why was he so isolated from her? Why was it so tough for her to accept him as one of her own people? He felt lonely - once again.

Past one month had been quite an eventful journey in college.

“Hum kauno paudha thodei hayee jo aap ‘tree’ ‘tree’ karte hawa phir se!! (I’m not a plant, that you’re saying ‘tree’ ‘tree’ again)” – her innocent annoyed tone rang in his ears like melody. At first he was quite unsure where their equation was actually heading to. He would get amazed by her attitude and energy. Most of the day he would find her in the classroom talking enthusiastically to her newly found friends or scrunching eye-brows at some of the orthodox beings of their college and rest of the time in library immersed in books.

Those enthusiastic pairs of eyes would read anything and everything that came their way and her inquisitive soul quenched the thirst of immense knowledge. “Unimaginable happiness. This is what I get here.” – her voice sounded like someone had poured ounce by ounce happiness in them when the first time he heard her saying these words to Doctor Roy.

It was some two days back and he was reading a journal regarding some newly discovered vector that were at risk of causing ‘CHOLERA’ when he found her dozing at her favorite corner of the library pouring herself on some book. AGAIN. It was her usual routine. Overstressing during the entire day and dozing in the evening at her favorite corner.

“Gaya-aa-tree.” – he crooned softly and received the usual sleepy grunt in response leading him to chuckle softly.

His eyes scanned her face. Those slight frowns on her brows that showed well how much of tensed she remained for work, the slight wrinkles on the corners of her eyes made her look withered in absolute pain, her chapped lips pursed in a thin line and those little tresses of hairs that managed to free themselves from the clutches of the tight bun she tied her hair in, she was looking a WARRIOR. A valiant warrior who fought at every moment and each day of her life.

Dave was astonished. He was actually ogling on Gayatri Joshi for past three minutes without his knowledge. That moment Dave Harrison knew where this equation was exactly going.  An absolute warmth filled his heart as realization took over his mind. He was falling for his junior… Hopelessly or maybe even madly!

He had been smiling and chuckling more than necessary from then onwards and this had cost him a quite mouthful of words from her this evening. Cold, selfish, stone-hearted and of course haughty Englishman – he had some of this quite a few number of times from many people, all thanks to his ivory skin tone and blonde hair. But today it had hurt a little more.

“You will never understand what we Indians go through.” – her sour voice rang in his ears again as he grasped the cement railing.

He closed his eyes, letting the cool night breeze touch his features gently. After a few seconds he sighed, a long deep sigh of Pain. Her words had stung him.

“No one can understand it better than me, Gayatree. No one.” – his low utterance was accompanied by little tears which he wiped even before they trickled down. His heart knew how it felt getting blamed by her. He had to clear this misunderstanding soon or else this unknown guilt of hurting her would succumb onto him badly.

She would have to understand and he knew she would.

-------------------

An indispensable pain shot through the back of her head. Gayatri knew she was losing her sanity but that was not her concern now. She could feel her entire body getting immersed in a floor of dust and charred remains. Her eyes refused to look up as tiredness overtook her entire being.

“No!”

She felt the limp body of hers not in co-ordination with her mind. Each cell of hers wanted to rise. They wanted to rise from the ashes and walk back to the college. “AAHH!” – a slicing pain passed her entire body as she gathered all strength to stand back. Her drooped eye-lashes somehow pulled themselves up and her sight was terror-stricken once again.

The door of the outhouse was ajar!

How was this even possible? Just a few seconds back she had witnessed the huge lock on the latches. Was her vision so blurred that illusion had taken over? Maybe Yes… She didn’t want to think more about it. Returning to her safe sanctum was her first priority now. And she turned around to leave…

She had covered a few steps back when her senses were screaming a sensation. A burnt gaze bore holes on her back! In reflex her body turned once again, there was no one. She had expected this but what caught her eyes was the faint light flickering. Was someone inside?!

“Gayatri No…! Don’t!!” – her mind screamed again but the curious heart was not into mind’s words. This time her feet voluntarily crossed the distance back again and she found herself standing right near the semi-burnt door. She didn’t care who or what would be inside… All she knew was that she had to put an end to all her queries. She have had enough from the past month… Whoever or whatever it was – it had to confront her.

Gathering all courage, her trembling fingers creaked the door open.

There was an ominous silence. Her eyes fell on the source of light. A kerosene lamp was lit on the windowsill of one of the innumerable windows that were present along the lengthy stretch of the hall. Gayatri could see the surroundings quite well even in that faint light.

“Eei ka hayee (What is this)?!” – she couldn’t help but utter as she walked further inside. Scorched remnants of unidentifiable objects touched her feet, shuddering her each moment in an unknown fear. A long wooden table occupied the centre of the hall occupying the space. But with wobbly legs and burnt platform it added the creepy feel.

Gayatri was startled by the chilled air that whooshed in all of a sudden through the broken-paned windows. Fisting her palms tightly she walked faster. Each of her steps faltered with the broken objects that were scattered all around. Her heart thumped louder at even the slightest noises her own self made. The walls of this deserted arena were also of the deepest shade of black. As if someone burnt the area mercilessly…

BURNT!!

“Hey Bhagwan (Oh God)!” – she exclaimed as realization sank in. She was standing alone in a secluded burnt area several meters away from the college. Her curiosity made her forget that she had entered what seemed like a forbidden area. The conditions were saying that no one had been here for quite some times. Why did she even enter this spooky cranky area?

“Your curiosity will put you in grave danger someday Gayatri.. Now leave!” – she muttered to herself and started to leave when her feet froze again. Her bruised limped body started protesting again but in vain.

Shock succumbed her being as she found her feet again moving towards the farthest end of the hall without her consent. “Who are you?!” – her scream was rendered unanswered. “Why are you behind me? Ka bigadlik hayee hum (What wrong have I done)?” – she pleaded as tears streamed down her wounded cheeks.

But the pull just turned more pitiless. It was not that she didn’t try to free herself from this unknown powerful clutch but with her body slowly giving in again her strong self was breaking. And her eyes widened in shock as a corridor again came in approach at the end of the hall…

A TRAP DOOR!!

She could see a door at the end of the corridor where two kerosene lamps were lit, as if to make a safe way to her. “Aah! Leave me!” – her helpless whine was of no use and she was pushed again all the way long until she faced the door. Unlike the previous one, it looked unaffected. Dust covered but not burnt…

She was unsure what to do and how to flee when her eyes fell on the lower area of the door. Crouching on knees she didn’t know why she sat on the dirty ground and started examining the area. Her torn saree was dirtied and she was tired beyond words but she felt an escalating strength from within .

What was it? Very queer, of course .  A palm impression…

Amidst the dust and dirt, an impression of a hand, a clear cut impression. “Strange..” – she murmured. After a moment of silence, she felt her right palm going up. It was not her but she could feel who it was and she had no strength to protest again. And she knew another shock was on way but she never expected this blow!

Her right palm was placed edge-to-edge to it.

It was her RIGHT PALM IMPRESSION PRESENT ON THIS DOOR!!!

Her entire body crumpled and an intense nausea overtook her senses. This was absurd! Highly absurd! How was this even possible? She had never visited this place ever before. It was never foreseen but this was explaining a new story and her entity and sanity of mind was getting in question.

Suddenly another chill wind filled the still air around. Before her highly terrified thoughts could get rationalized she found everything whirling around in a rushing spree and everything darkened.

Once again…

-------------------

Professor Roy was at sheer loss of words.

The student he had brought all the way back from Ramnagar was lying on the bed of the infirmary once again. All pale and tired. Bandages and stitches all around her wrists and palms, her forehead also suffered a deep cut. Gently washing the cotton in warm water the nurse washed the wound and in a few moments, it was also bandaged.

“You must tell her the truth doctor.” – his attention got divided by the matron who was looking at the young aspiring doctor, equally worried for her well-being.

He hummed a “Hmm..” when Gayatri grunted slightly in pain. He immediately turned his eyes on her. She was slowly gaining consciousness and it was time for her to hear the reality of everything. He couldn’t waste another second.

After settling a bit and drinking a glass of water, Gayatri looked at her worried professor. He looked highly tensed and she knew the reason. All the happenings of last hour came rushing back as her body panicked once again. That hand-impression, her right palm, charred surroundings and trap door…

EVERYTHING WAS A BIG QUESTION.

“Professor Roy I-” – she tried to frame words when he stopped her.

“How did you reach there?” – his question was short and simple.

“I-I just don’t know… I was returning to my room after dinner when that le-left wing… I don’t know how I reached the outhouse. Believe me Professor Sahab, it was not me. I just reached there and a Trap door and-” – she stammered in fear.

Professor Roy sighed.

“I found you near the backdoor of the left wing Gayatri. I don’t know how to say this but please, don’t loiter around at night. It’s dangerous.” – he said in a low but distinct voice shuddering Gayatri even more. Gayatri was shell –shocked. Last she remembered, she had collapsed in front of the trap door as soon as her palm touched the imprint. Then how did she reach the backdoor?!

Everything seemed so strange and irrational. Pressing her forehead gently she looked up at her favorite Professor who was looking equally in tremor. “He is unleashed Gayatri, you all need to be safe. It’s my duty to keep you secure.” – He uttered in a shaky voice.

“Who is ‘He’ Professor? I heard you all speaking about someone in that meeting a month back. Is he the same person?” – she said in reflex as her mind wandered back to the meeting a month back where she had eaves-dropped. She was sure this had something to do with all this and his reference was at the same person he talked about that day…

“You know I see…” – Professor Roy was a bit astonished. Gayatri just looked down in response. It was not a good thing to spy around and she had done it.

“He is Theodor, Gayatri… Doctor Theodor Hector.” – he looked at her as Gayatri looked back at him in utter inquisitiveness.

“I presume you have heard that the left wing is haunted and all… I am afraid Gayatri, it’s very much true. The wing has been desolated from quite some times because of Doctor Hector.” – he stated. Silence hung in the air as Gayatri tried to assemble her rationality.

“Doctor Hector was one of the famous professors and finest doctors CMC could ever get. But his strict nature and unkind behavior towards the natives garnered negative impacts too. His punishments were quite strange and his hatred for the natives reflected quite clearly in his brutal punishments. He, himself, was a weird person.” – he paused to take a breath.

“What happened to him?” – Gayatri asked. She could make out easily that things were taking an undefined turn and this was beyond worldly.

“Fire… Terribly massacred and unforgiving accident. He died.” – he said in an icy voice.

“Outhouse!” – Gayatri was slowly getting a clearer view!

“Yes…He used to carry on his researches and studies in that outhouse. The left wing was his favorite corner after the outhouse. Spending long hours, strolling in the corridor of the left wing and thinking about his works in solace, he enjoyed it!  And that nightmarish evening called for a terrible accident. One of his experiments went wrong somewhere. But the payment of this mistake was merciless. Huge flames engulfed the entire premises of his laboratory and everything ended even before he was rescued. It was blazing in fire, a single mistake cost his life and work. Everything ended…” – his morose voice echoed so many emotions.

Gayatri shivered in extreme fear as her eyes fell on her right palm. The silver ash dirt was still sticking to her palms indicating only one thing.

EVERYTHING HAD NOT ENDED.

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“Here you go.” – Dave smiled with the petri-plate in hand.

Gayatri looked up and gave him a cold look but he seemed unnerved. Snatching away the petri-plate she concentrated back on her work. He just smiled more in return and stood by her side. Her hands and wrists were bandaged and even a small bandage was present at the corner of her forehead. It was worrying him tremendously and he stood by her trying to help her in all manners he could.

“Gayatree, you can tell me what happened. I, myself, will look into the matter.” – he asked for the fifth time since the morning and in turn received the silent treatment again. Sighing in defeat, he handed out the pipette which she was searching with her eyes on the assortments of bacterial culture present in front of them. They were trying to focus on the epidemiology of Cholera and were working their level best to isolate and identify the causative virus.

“Here you go… Ohh!” – he exclaimed as it slipped out of his hand and the glass pieces shattered all around. Gayatri looked up at him enraged and Dave was equally petrified.

“Doctor Harrison, aap humra ke akela kahe naa chor dete ha? Kripya, tu aapan kaam kara aur humra ke aapan kaam kare da. Aise toh kaam aur bigadat hayee. Tohra toh farak padtwa naa lekin humra la ee bahut zaroori hayee (Why don’t you leave me alone? Please, do your work and let me do mine. This way things are getting more messed up. It won’t affect you but for me it’s very important)!” – her anger filled voice echoed in the laboratory as the English peon came rushing.

“My lord, any problem?” – he addressed Dave who stood there all morose and sad being the solo victim of her increasing wrath. Looking at the peon, he just nodded slowly. “Please make sure to clean this mess, the lady needs to work in peace here.” – he stretched the last word looking at Gayatri’s face which was red in anger. The peon obliged and Dave returned to his work corner at the other side of the laboratory silently engrossing himself in work.

The rest of the hour was peaceful and Gayatri was quite happy with the results that were showing a positive directions to the outcome of their industrious efforts when he called her again. “Doctor Harrison, as you can see I am busy, please do you mind excusing me and my work.” – she replied in a monotone trying to observe the slides against the sunlight that streamed through the huge window.

“Gayatrii” – he called softly again.

This was enough for her. “Tohra parshaani ka hawa, Doctor Sahab (What is your problem, Doctor Sahab)?” – she demanded answer at a higher pitch turning around tremendously irritated at Dave’s constant intervention.

There was no one present at the other corner.

A cold gush of tremor passed through her spine. Eyes refused to believe what her mind registered. The atmosphere was getting colder and she could realize what was happening. She was absolutely alone in the laboratory and then the smooth whisper echoed again.

“Gayatrii!”

She clutched the working slab resting back lightly as chilled air filled her lungs. A strange sensation passed through her entire entity and she felt as if she was breathing ice. It was him… He was back again, this time behind her. The slight throb of her Adam apple indicated how petrified she was but her feet refused to move from the spot.

And just then another whisper filled her ears.

“DO NOT RUN.”

She could sense well that – SHE WAS ENTRAPPED… BADLY! And there was no way out.

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Gayatri nervously fidgeted her dupatta looking outside. Her mind still wandered around the events that haunted her this morning and the last night. Things were going out of hand and she had no absolute idea of how to bring herself out of the mess. But this evening was beginning on a happy note. They were in Professor Roy’s motor car and she looked out trying to forget the incidents lightening herself a bit.

Malobika was sitting by her side, chattering with a few other friends while she was all lost in the shine and shimmer of the city. It had been a month she was here and for the first time she was out of her safe abode heading to a place which Professor Roy termed as a ‘Surprise’.

Her eyes shone as she witnessed the massive splendor of the busy ‘Esplanade Row’. She had heard about this heart place of this city a lot back in her village. The huge ‘Maidan’ passed by, which all referred to as the ‘Lung of Calcutta’ amazed her even more. The car crossed the lengthy stretch of roads while she was just absorbed in the incessant clamor and chatters of the noisy place. A smile occupied her lips as she saw a group of young kids playing at the corner of a street.

A faint memory lingered in her mind… A young Anuradha Jiji just behind her running at her utmost speed while she was successfully dodging her and running amidst the bushes, their laughs and shouts were echoing as they joined the other group of girls in the game of ‘Chhupan Chhupai’ (hide and seek).

Her Ramnagar… She missed the place, her home, her people! But she was here for them. She had to do something for them and she would make sure that their troubles ended on a forever note.

“Where are we going, Doctor Roy?” – Malobika’s gleeful voice brought her back from the trance. It was not regular that they got an off from their hectic schedule, so, it was worth of celebration.

“Surprise my child…Surprise!” – came the old man’s humorous reply as their car took a sharp turn.

And Gayatri gasped in shock. The huge marble slab right in front of the gate said it all…

‘Harrison House’

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Dave couldn’t believe his eyes.

She had actually come to attend the dinner he had arranged for his friends and colleagues. His stunned vision was even more surprised seeing her wearing an outfit which he was probably seeing her in for the first time. A plain pink ‘Salwar Kurta and Dupatta’. It was probably the first time she had worn something like this leaving her usual sarees and Dave could sense she was not very accustomed to it. After all, it was considered as one of the boldest outfit by the society.

Needless to say, she looked absolutely pretty. With that loose braid , little earrings dangling from her ears and above all those wonderment filled eyes, she could be easily passed on as the most beautiful lady he had ever seen .

Gayatri was still managing the dupatta totally unaware of this admiring glance. This dupatta thing was an absolute nuisance. “Uff.” - she angrily muttered glaring at Malobika who was chuckling seeing her condition.

“Prothom baar toh… Hoye hoye. (It’s quite normal as it’s the first time.)” – she whispered earning another sharp look from her. “It’s all because of you, I am wearing this ‘salwar kameez’, you idiot lady! Aah, I am better off in my sarees.” – she mumbled at her friend angrily who laughed in response.

“Well Miss Joshi, I don’t think so. It seems like someone can’t take his eyes off you.” – Malobika winked at her friend. “Who?” – Gayatri frowned at the statement.  

“Our host for the evening!” – Malobika naughtily chided patting her shoulder and got busy in other friends but not before shocking her best friend who froze at her place turning to the direction the host was standing.

His eyes met hers!

“Hey Bhagwan! Humra bacha la. (Oh God! Save me).”  - her heart immediately whispered to the almighty. She was not strong enough to hold the soft intimidating gaze that Dave’s eyes bore in hers. She immediately looked away from his handsome face and ran to a direction she had no absolute idea.

“I will be back in a moment gentleman. Until then, please make yourselves comfortable.” – Dave excused himself immediately and followed her.

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Gayatri scanned around the room. Unknowingly, she had stepped into a place which seemed like a personal study. The first thing that her eyes fell upon were racks of books – INNUMERABLE BOOKS! Her eyes glittered and she slowly walked up to one of those racks looking at them, amazed by the intellect of the reader.

From medicine to literature, histories to atlases, everything was present there. Dr. Harrison was really lucky to own them – she thought as she walked along the racks feeling happier with each passing moment. Only if she could pass her whole day here! It was no less than heaven...

“Aah Maiya! (Oh Mother!)” – she stumbled on the huge arm-chair placed there laughing lightly at her own folly. Books have had always mesmerized her so much that she forgot the existence of everything when around them.

But this time, it was an exception.

As she was about to glance back at the rack when her gaze fell upon a huge oil portrait on the wall across the room. It was of a lady, presumably in her early 40s. The smile occupied on those lips felt so known to her. So tender and affectionate that Gayatri didn’t know when she had walked up to the portrait. But what caught her eyes next, surprised her more. It was the huge ‘red bindi’ that adorned the forehead of the person in the portrait.

It was the painting an INDIAN woman.

Who was she? And what was her picture doing in a pure British household like this? Thousands of questions clouded Gayatri’s mind and just then the answer himself walked behind her into his study.

“She is my mother.” – Dave answered all her thoughts.

His sudden voice had already jerked her around and now this fact shook her even more. She couldn’t believe the fact that actually stated that this British doctor who always irritated her some way or the other was actually stating that his mother was Indian. She looked at him in question to which the blonde man just smiled at her.

And her heart stopped.

The same tenderness and affection was beheld in that enchanting smile. She gasped in bewilderment as realization sank in. This was the reason the lady in the portrait seemed so familiar. He was speaking the truth.

“My mother… Mrs. Laxmi Harrison. I am saying the truth, Gayatree.” – he replied softly looking at the portrait lovingly.

“Oh!” – was all she could reply.

“My father wedded my mother and moved to England. She was just fifteen years old then. They settled there.” – he said. Gayatri nodded trying to find words. A strange sense of unknown guilt was already occupying her heart as she looked at the young man standing beside her. Was she really harsh upon him unnecessarily?

“Wh-where is she now?” – she asked.

“She passed away…” – Dave’s voice turned heavier.

“Of Cholera.” – his words felt like glass pieces shattering on her as she froze at her place.

There was an unfathomable silence in the atmosphere. The slight noise of the dinner party going outside did no good. Tears trickled down his cheek and he didn’t bother to wipe them away. His glassy eyes tore her heart apart. All words of consolation and apologies suddenly felt less for her.

“I have had always wanted to visit India. Mother used to tell me the enchanting tales of Raja Maharajas and I used to dream of visiting the country that was already a part of me. Finally I got an opportunity when Father was returning here for rejoining the administration. I was beyond happy as I could witness the beauty of this country which my mother always used to narrate in bed-time stories. But then the epidemic evaded just the year following our arrival and I lost my everything. My mother left me.” – his wet voice shattered her heart even more.

“I am not different from you all, Gayatree. I love this country and her people as much as you do. It’s just that… My dialect, my skin tone and my upbringing might be a bit different from yours, Gayatree. But I am here for the same reason as you. Our LOVED ONES. I don’t want any more children losing their mothers to this fatality. I do care, Gayatree. I do care!” – he passed a weak smile.

Gayatri was rendered speechless. Unknowingly she had hurt him quite deeply and now a sorry was meaningless. Her eyes were wet. Wiping her tears she looked at him . Dave was gazing at his mother’s portrait with tears in his eyes and a small smile on his lips.

“I am sorry, Doctor Harrison.” – her faint whisper made him smile a little more. He looked at her to find her on the verge of tears. He immediately forwarded his handkerchief all worried.

“Oh, Dear Lord! Please don’t cry, Lady. Or else my mother will reprimand me from heaven. Please don’t make a 30 year old man get scolded again, Gayatree. In case you don’t know, my mother was very strict!” – Gayatri couldn’t help but chuckle lightly amidst tears. This man suddenly seemed so different. So amiable and lovely.

“So… Let’s leave. Or else we would be put to question by Doctor Roy!” – he smiled at her.

“Yes sure. Umm… But not before I say sorry to you, Doctor. Please forgive me for yesterday. I was just-” – Gayatri was interrupted immediately.

“Aah, not a problem, Young lady! We shouldn’t mind a piece of mind from a beautiful dynamic personality like you. Should we?” -  Dave laughed. And a deep crimson blush rose to her cheeks and they both went out.

It was the start of something new and beautiful.

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Things changed for the pleasant after the evening at Dave’s place. A pleasant bond of companionship was on a starting note between the two souls. Another two weeks had passed and Gayatri was slowly getting habituated to this blooming friendship with Doctor Harrison. The man was a huge treasure of knowledge. An avid reader and a wonderful philosopher, very few in this institute could match his intellect. But what she liked even more was that compassionate heart. His little gestures were really admirable and she had found a new close friend in him.

For Dave, things were a notch higher than friendship. He seemed very moved by all her gestures and behavior. Be it her smile or slight annoyance on disturbance in work, he just enjoyed her company beyond words. A contented cheer occupied his face as each morning he said the first ‘Good Morning’ to her. She truly made his day good with her beautiful smile.

But this morning, he was shocked more than surprised. Like other days, he had entered the college premises a good fifteen minutes back and his eyes yearned to see her once before the first class. Of course, he saw her at the college grounds.

Holding a student by the collar of his Kurta, anger emblazing her eyes and her teeth grit in firm determination. The student squirmed under her tight grip and the small crowd gathered around these two was neither trying to stop them nor calling any higher authority. To top that her best friend Malobika was cheering her enthusiastically in Bengali.

“Tu kaa kahit haylee! Phir se bol! (What were you saying? Come again!)” – she was shouting at her top most voice.

“Tum log, tum logo ko… (You people, you people…)” – the man was stammering but his rage was no less.

“Haan hum log. Kaa hayee hum log? Bekaar? Ehaan rahe layak nahin? (Yes, we people? What are we? Useless? Not qualified enough to be at this place?)” – she roared back.

“Yes! You are meant to just marry and give birth to kids. Aah, not to forget, do household chores with perfection too! Understood? Or I have other ways to make you understand.” – the young man spat shamelessly still fighting her grip.

Next moment Dave saw a huge uproar and his tigress just blew a solid punch right on the man’s nose and he fell back wincing. Blood gushed out of his nose and a sharp cry of pain passed through his throat. Dave stumbled a few steps back trying to absorb the scene while Gayatri held the male chauvinist by his collar again.

“And we are meant to teach you lessons too each day like this. So that you think thrice before opening this dirty mouth of yours before any of us.” – she hissed in a slow pace and threw him back on ground.

There was an absolute pin-drop silence as she left not sparing another glance back. Dave smirked. Truly, this lady was enchanting him more with each passing moment. An intense pride filled his heart as he, too,  walked away.

------------------- 

“What are you doing here at this time, Gayatree?” – Dave was astonished to find her immersed in a book at her favorite corner of the library. Gayatri looked up at the familiar voice and grinned. “D-E-T-E-N-T-I-O-N.. Principal Sahab aise hi bol le rahalthin (Principal Sahab said it like that)!” – she replied giving a huge smile.

Dave was amused. First time in his life he was witnessing someone getting so ecstatic at the name of detention. Truly she was strange and this was even more adorable . “So, Miss Gaya-aa-tree looks very pleased with the idea of detention. Isn’t it?” -  Dave chuckled making a seat for him just behind her.

“Paudha naahin hayee hum, Brahmadev ji (I’m not a plant, Brahmadev ji)!” – she scrunched her nose narrowing her eyes and Dave laughed. This young lady just melted his heart each time he saw her antics. “Imagine Doctor Harrison, punishment in this huge library, reading ‘Materia Medica’. Isn’t it worth?” – she uttered enthusiastically to which Dave nodded matching her level of excitement.

Bringing out the child in him – only this woman could do it so effortlessly and he was really fond of this fact.

“Can I help in any matter, dear Lady?” – his chivalrous tone took over and Gayatri witnessed one of the most heart-melting smile she had ever seen. His eyes were shining in an unknown enthusiasm and Gayatri knew this concern was not fake or just formality. He meant what he said and she knew he was always ready to help her. Those orbs reflected nothing but purity.

“Umm… Ya… Actually…” – she was unsure whether to say about the problem that had cropped up half an hour back. “Stop hesitating and please tell me. What is the problem, Gayatree? ” – he looked concerned.

Gayatri looked down at the book and whispered slowly. “I want the cross reference journal number- 3850, but it’s in the upper most row of rack 55. I-I fear heights, so I m-might wobble.” – she closed her eyes tightly. Now, he would definitely tease her, after all who makes such a demand!

“And why are you hiding your face?” – his deep voice echoed in her ears and she looked up at him.

There was a sweet smile persistent on the lips as usual and she was flabbergasted. “Never shy away because of your fears, dear. We all have shortcomings and for me, you are the most perfect lady. So never feel ashamed of yourself.” – his words warmed her cheeks. She nodded shyly.

“I will just fetch the book.” – he smiled cheekily and left his seat but not before mouthing a ‘STUDY’ alert pointing at the book. Gayatri sighed happily and got back to studying.

After a good ten minutes she looked up again to find his seat still vacant. “Maybe I should help him, he hasn’t got it.” – she frowned getting up . Walking towards the farthest corner of the massive library was a time consuming task. She increased her pace as her shoes clicked on the ground and echoed back in silence.

Just then came another round of clicking sound just behind her…

“Doctor Harrison.” – she called turning around but could see no one. She resumed walking and again the similar sound was heard. She turned again and still no one was in view. Her feet froze after walking a few more steps as realization sank in.

“Theodor!” – her mere whisper frightened her own heart.

An intense pang of fear crept in her mind and she started sweating profusely. No, she had to run this time before falling victim to another incident. She turned to the opposite direction that lead to the door and her walk picked up more speed when her thoughts halted at the other fact.

Doctor Harrison!

No, she couldn’t leave him alone here. It was getting riskier. “Doctor Harrison!” – her echoing call went unanswered . “Just go and get him Gayatri.” – she made up her mind and turned her direction. She just couldn’t flee leaving him here and if it meant going back, she would do that again. Nothing was more important than his safety.

“Doctor Harrison can you hear me?” – she shouted again running in the direction where he was supposed to be. Alarming thoughts raised her mind. The wind would turn chilled any moment and he would mark his presence. These British people were over-adamant she knew but British spirits were no less it seemed. This time she was his target! The mere thought of this fact petrified her even more.

“Doctor Harri-” – her words were suddenly interrupted.

An intense burning scent flared her nostrils and her eyes turned misty all of a sudden. Her heart went heavy and breaths were uneven. An asphyxiate atmosphere came into being and much to her shock she found herself rooted at the same place. The temperature was apparently reaching many notches higher and Gayatri felt herself sweating even more profusely. A burning heat touched her frame making her wince.

Wiping her eyes she tried to gain a clear view and what she saw horrified her in absolute petrifying stupor!

Vigorous  flames had lit up all her surrounding study tables and book racks. She could see her beloved books absorbed in the huge shackles of the hungry fire, her own body seemed to burn out, every inch of her tissues were experiencing an inexorable pain. Her visions were blurring gradually. Trying to move was in absolute vain yet again.

“HELP!” – she shouted in croaky voice and a merciless flame engulfed her frame next moment. She blenched in an utmost pain wincing. Her entire body ached as she had an unclear view of the dreadful fire succumbing the far end corner of the library in it.

Dave was in there!

No, she had to move! She had to rescue him! He was in here with her, her mind was blank and all she knew was she had to reach him. Trying to push her charred frame forward she felt herself touching the ground which was blazing with immense heat.

“DAVE!!” – she gathered all her might and one last time a huge shout escaped her lips.  She was an absolute helpless soul and was losing the battle now! She could feel the flames surrounding her with all might as her eyes drooped in a hazy vision and the intense heat burnt her inexorably. Slowly her eyes closed.

“Gayatree… Gayatree!!” – the familiar voice rang in her ears.

“Uhh…” – she groaned in response.

“Gayatree!!” – his panicked voice rang again and slowly her view cleared. Those eyes were pondering over her face with sheer inquisitiveness and she could sense immense worry in them. “Aah…” – she winced pushing him a bit and jerked up her body from the floor where she was lying.

A cold shiver shook her frame as she looked around. No signs of the fire. No blazing flames. No extreme heat and no intolerable pain in her body. Her eyes darted out as she realized the extreme nightmare she just witnessed sometimes back. Theodor was on back of her once again and she could sense it well…

Someone was watching her, her instincts were now sharp enough to recognize the mirage Theodor had just created to fear her away.

“Gayatree…” – Dave called once again bringing her out of the trance.

Her eyes scanned his being. An instant relief washed her features seeing him untouched, completely safe. Immediate smile occupied her lips and an intense happiness took her mind. He was fine, she was fine… There was nothing more important than this at this point of time!

“DAVE!” – she exclaimed.

Next moment, he was under her tight grip. An electrifying shot passed through his entire body. Her frame pressed against his and he felt himself going dizzy. “DAVE” – her single utterance of his name and he was in absolute trance. And topping that she actually hugged him with all her force, it did the rest of the work. His vision blurred and his fingers shivered gently and about to grab her by waist.

No, Dave. Don’t! – his mind screamed but heart condemned. And mind won.

Gently holding her by shoulder he patted her back. Gayatree smiled against his nape, there was absolutely no awkwardness and she was feeling immense gratefulness that he was fine. She didn’t know why she felt so relieved and happy even after being in absolute panic a few seconds back.  She just knew, he mattered to her - A LOT!

“Everything is fine, dear. There is nothing to worry.” – Dave gently cooed and Gayatri nodded.

She slowly looked up from his nape to get a better view of his face. But her eyes, this time, widened in absolute shock! How was this even possible?! This must be another dream, rather nightmare!

ACCEPT MY EXISTENCE…

These words were charred on the wall across the room.

It was dirty.

It was black.

It was ugly.

It was terrifying.

It was THEODOR’s message.

“Nothing is fine.” – her heart screamed.

And once again, there was a blackout.

-------------------

Professor Roy was pacing in his chamber in utter tension. His eyes scanned the huge wall clock. It was time for him to arrive. Things were going out of hand with each passing day. He needed to take an immediate action and for that he had called this urgent meeting.

“May I come in, doctor?” – he looked at the door and nodded. The young man entered and bolted the door. The meeting was supposed to be held highly private. The matter was turning serious and as per Doctor Roy last night a student had been a victim to it.

“Who was it?” – he asked sitting.

“Gayatri.” – Dr. Roy answered in a solemn voice.

“The young student I met that day in the infirmary!” – he exclaimed.

“You met her, Bhonsle?” – Roy questioned.

“Yes. She mistook me for Dave and thanked me for treating her. Dave talks a lot about her nowadays. Feisty little thing she is!” – he spoke chuckling lightly.

Prof. Roy nodded slowly thinking deeply. Gayatri was his responsibility and he couldn’t afford her to be in trouble and this was a dread peril. “I know, Bhonsle. But I can’t risk her life amidst all this.” – he said.

“Yes Doctor, I agree… What did you tell her? She might be frightened.” – he enquired.

“Yes, she was. I had to feed her the usual ‘Theodor story’ that goes round. She must not know the truth.” – Roy’s tone turned serious. “Does Dave know about it?” – he asked. He had seen his friend worrying over her a bit more than usual.

“This is a secret, Bhonsle. No one.. I repeat no one should ever come to know what happened here three months back until I find it, until I find every damn clue! I won’t let any traitor destroy what was meant to be our hard work of five years!” – Roy’s voice was low but each of his words were precise and meant business.

Bhonsle nodded understanding his point. “Yes, Doctor. What do you want me to do?” – he asked looking at the old man. Roy was silent for a minute and then he spoke.

“I am visiting the morgue tonight. You have to keep it out of the dean’s knowledge. Did you get what you have to do?” – he looked at him in question.

“Yes, Doctor!” – Bhonsle nodded and got up. It was time to act wisely and this time a single mistake would risk their immense efforts. Roy also got up. He had to alert others. No one would know of his venture and he had to try his level best.

He had to find it!

-------------------

“Humra ke uhho kitaab chahee… Chala. (I want that book too… Come).” – Gayatri held him by arm and dragged him enthusiastically to the umpteenth book shop. They were two lanes behind their college for buying books. Dave made faces as they entered the shop. Back in England, he had been a victim of shopping spree of his mother and cousins quite a number of times.

And in all these years of stay in India , this was first time he was being pulled like this and this enthusiastic lady seemed to show no mercy on him. Give her BOOKS and she will forget what world is. It was already late evening but the lady by his side didn't seem to be stopping anytime sooner or later.

“Gayatree, slow. Please, slow down, lady. You will trip any moment.” – he warned and followed her. She was beyond excited and didn’t pay any heed to him. Dave scanned her face as she asked for the desired ‘Human Physiology’ book from the shopkeeper. As the man handed her the book her eyes held a blissful expression. Scanning through the pages, she smiled.

Dave’s heart fluttered that moment. He thanked Prof. Roy for sending him with Gayatri here. “Please pack this, sir.” – he uttered in chaste English and the shopkeeper nodded. Gayatri beamed at him happily and turned around to scan the whole shop.

“Another half an hour here, Dave.” – he whined silently and followed her.

“Gayatree, slow down. It is not fine for you to run around. You will fall ill again.” – Dave called her increasing his pace. “Oh Brahmadevvv, I am all fine. Let me see that side.” – her cheerful voice answered and she disappeared to the other corner.

Her eyes gleamed as her eyes fell on the book she was yearning for, since the last month. Doctor Chauhan didn’t allow her to take it. Her heart squeezed at the thought of her humiliation that day. She picked up the book and flapped the pages and her face fell. ‘25 rupees’ – the tag said.

“Is there any problem, Lady?” – he called from behind.

Quickly keeping the book back she turned around smiling. “Nahin… (No…)” – she uttered. “So, let me help you in finding some good reference books, my dear lady.” – he said walking past her and started helping her. His excited face lit up her mood and she joined him back knowing a lot more about the subject.

All of a sudden the bulbs went OUT!!

The shop turned pitch dark. Gayatri stumbled in sudden shock but not before pulling Dave in utmost fear.

Was Theodor here too?!

She turned pale at the mere thought. Dave himself was stupefied at the sudden blackout. Clutching her tightly against him he looked around. “Oh Lord!” – he exclaimed at his highest voice as Gayatri shuddered in fear. The shutter sounds echoed and in moments they were locked in.

“Gayatree.” – his voice was in whispers and Gayatri looked up. She could not see his face but his concern laced voice uttered his worry. “I-I am f-fine, Doctor Harrison!” – she assured breaking the contact of theirs. Dave held her hand tightly ensuring her safety. And just then the whole area boomed with two consecutive deafening sounds.

EXPLOSIONS!!

In reflex, her hands wrapped around his torso and she clung onto him tightly. Sweating profusely he took her in his protective embrace. Tremendous noise and huge screams of people shook the entire locality. Stones were being thrown at the shops and the glass windows cracked hard. It was a raging MOB!

“Stay safe, Gayatree.” – he screamed and dodged an incoming stone chunk. She lead out a whimper hiding her onto him… “Please don’t panic, Gayatree. Come with me.” – he whispered and for some strange reason Gayatri felt secure. Her cries subsided and holding his arm she accompanied him behind one of the cupboard.

Settling her at a safe place away Dave sat beside her crouching on the ground. She was still shivering and it was normal at this point of time. She had never witnessed such a massacre situation before but it was a general picture here. Arising revolutionary outbursts – this area was the powerhouse of these sudden uprisings here.

And he knew this police mob was a result of one of those doubting raids. Police had just suspected something and had started investigation in their own way. He just condemned this. Was this a way to administer? People were turning more frightened at these merciless ways.

“Nothing will happen, Gayatree.” – he assured again and gently wiped her tears.

Gayatri looked at him, the vision was a bit clear now as they were accustomed to the darkness. He was sweating badly. No matter how much he said, he was equally in tremor as she was.

“Doctor Harrison, I am fine.” – she replied in a soft voice.

Dave looked at her. She was nowhere near fine. Her eyes showed immense nervousness and fear but she was saying it just to pacify him. Her lips quivered and her voice trembled – still she uttered she was fine. This lady was occupying his heart in a slow but steady pace. He didn’t know how to convey what he exactly felt for her.

Gayatri smiled at him lightly and took the edge of her cotton saree’s pallu wiping the sweat off his cheeks. Her slow gentle strokes numbed his senses. Darn! Ten years…. His mother left him ten years back and someone was showering the same warmth of affection on him after ten long years. His heart did somersaults and she was the reason of it. It was not listening to his mind at this minute.

“MARRY ME.” - His lips spelt out even before his mind could condemn!

Amidst the outraging explosions, huge screams and massive unrest –

DAVE HARRISON HAD PROPOSED GAYATRI JOSHI!

This super long chapter has been written by Lovely_Rhythm for the group story writing contest hosted by freakswithus.

We hope you enjoyed reading the chapter. Will see you all soon with Chapter 3 on 20th July.

Till then, stay blessed and happy reading!!

With loads of love,
Team ARDUOUS SCRIBBLERS