Arohi's POV

"Good afternoon, Ro." The girl came towards us, wishing Rohan with her best smile. She is Ben's secretary. I don't remember her name, I just have had a very little conversation with her.

"Very good afternoon, Nancy." Rohan wished her back with a smile, taking off his goggle. "Is everything alright? Ben sounded tensed."

"I think you should talk to him directly about this." She said and then looked at me with a smile. "Hello, Arohi."

"Hello." That's all I said with a smile and turned to look at Rohan immediately who was already looking at me, "Let's go then," Rohan said. He then moved his gaze to Raghav. He smiled back at Nancy before moving in, I and Raghav did the same.

We reached to Ben's cabin. It was very spacious and classy. There, Ben was settled on the couch with another guy around 50s sitting next to him who was telling something to Ben. From his attire, all I can say is that he might be a lawyer. I felt some uneasiness by seeing the atmosphere there. Something wasn't good.

"Hey, David. I didn't expect you here..." Rohan greeted the guy next to Ben with a forced smile. There was a little nervousness in his voice. I felt myself getting tensed.

"Hey Ro! Ben called me to discuss some matters." David said with a thin smile. Rohan looked at Ben, being completely clueless.

"Hey, Arohi! You are here too." Ben said with his usual smile, looking at me, ignoring Rohan's stare.

"Oh..well...I thought it was about the album. Rohan asked me to come with him." I said in a low voice being awkward in the situation. 

"It's ok dear, I was just joking. You are more than welcome here. And you are right, it's about the album." Ben said getting serious all of a sudden. That doesn't look good, I have never seen Ben being serious or nervous, but now he was both.

We all settled down on the couch and made ourselves comfortable. There was an awkward and tension-filled silence. I could see the worry on everyone's face.

"What's the matter? What happened, Ben?" Rohan asked breaking the silence. Ben looked at him for a few seconds, maybe processing what to say. 

"Well, before that. Arohi meet David Williams. He is working with our company as our legal advisor." Ben said looking at me, again ignoring Rohan's words. David extended his hands for a handshake. "Nice to meet you Arohi, heard a lot about you from Ben. He made me hear some of your songs and I must say you are an amazing singer. Became a fan." He smiled at me and I return it back and shook hands with him.

"Nice to meet you too, David and thank you for the compliment." I pressed a smile at him. I was just too worried to even smile. From the corner of the eye, I can see Rohan rolling his eyes. He was getting irritated now.

"If you are done with the damn formalities, would you mind spelling out what the heck has happened?!" Rohan asked with his voice a little louder than usual. He had lost all his calm now. It came out as a little rude though. How can he talk to Ben like that? But still, I must say that this suspense thing was really nerve wrecking. 

Ben took a deep sigh, "I think we should put the album on hold for some time..."

"What? But why? What happened?" Rohan shot in before Ben could even finish what he had to say.

"Look, Rohan, there are some issues going on and it involves you. It won't be good for the album or Arohi." He paused for sometime before continuing again. "You are part of this label for a pretty long time. That's why I'm saying it's better to take a little break until this mess is cleared."

"What are you talking about? What issue? I don't remember saying or doing anything that will cause an issue." Rohan said being frustrated running his hand through his hair. "What the fuck is going on, Ben? Stop beating around the bush and just tell me what the hell it is?!"

"Rohan, I need you to calm down first, alright?" Ben looked at Rohan, who nodded his head in response, trying to compose himself. "The thing is one 'famous artist' has put allegation on you that you are stealing his music. That's all I can say as of now." Ben said looking at Rohan, picking his words carefully so that Rohan won't burst out. But that's exactly what he did.

"BULLSHIT! WHY THE HELL WOULD I DO THAT?? I'M ROHAN NANDA! I DON'T HAVE TO COPY ANY SHITTY ARTIST OUT THERE!!" Rohan shouted getting up from his seat. Then he let out a deep breath, clenching and unclenching his fist trying to contain his anger. "I don't believe you are doing this shit, Ben. Out of all people. You..." His face showed pain than anger now. I can totally feel him. There's no need for Rohan Nanda to do something like that. It's pretty clear that it's a made up story by whoever this "famous artist" is.

"Rohan....just hear me out first," Ben said calmly looking at Rohan. "You know that I trust you and I need you to trust me too here. Just take a break until this mess gets cleared. That's it. It's nothing big. And I know my Rohan will come back with a bang and show the people what he truly is, right?" Ben asked smiling sweetly at him. Rohan didn't say anything, he sat back in his seat, running his hand through his hair, looking down in frustration. Everyone was silent for a few seconds just staring at Rohan to get his reaction. But he just refused to talk.

I felt really sorry for him. He was looking helpless. I wanted to hug him and tell him that it's all gonna be fine. Everyone here knows the truth, that they trust him, that I trust him and Ben is only trying to help him. But I think he is too frustrated and angry to notice or think anything.

"OK at least think about Arohi," Ben said when he saw that Rohan was not going to respond. I looked at Ben at the sudden mention of my name. "It's her first international album and we don't want any negativity before it's release. So just listen to me, Rohan." Ben said with concern in his voice. It was very clear that Ben cared a whole lot about this guy. Rohan shot a look at Ben.

It was impossible to read his expression or feelings at that moment. I know it's hard when you have worked really hard to reach where you are and then some people come and question you and your work. It's more painful when you have to prove yourself to others when you haven't done any wrong.

"Rohan, it's not just about you and me. I hope you are getting that." Ben said sternly this time, like a father to a son. I could see the concern in Ben's eyes for Rohan.

"I just don't believe this, Ben! I just..." Rohan paused in between. "You know what, Ben. Do whatever you want...you want to put the album on hold, do it! I don't care! I don't give a damn but just tell me who is making this claim." Rohan was talking loud and his frustration and anger were clear in each word he spoke.

We all looked at Ben for the answer. But he stayed quiet. Ben didn't answer his question and Rohan went on getting more angry and frustrated. "Oh oh, I get it now what the fuss is all about, Ben! Your label's favorite artist has made those false claims. And you want to investigate me to keep him happy, Isn't it?!" Rohan said laughing bitterly. His words were bitter but I knew he was breaking from inside.

"It's not about him. Why don't you understand! If he held a conference then..."

"THEN WHAT BEN?! I DON'T GIVE FUCK ABOUT IT!! DO YOU THINK THAT ANYONE WILL BELIEVE HIM? ARE YOU AFRAID THAT I'LL BE OVER??!!"

"Rohan!! Enough is enough! It's not about people believing him or you get over. He has already filed a complaint against you and I don't want things to get even worse. The only thing I'm thinking right now is you! But if you don't want to listen to me then, I'm terminating your contact with the label right now. And I'm not even joking when I'm saying this, I'm not in a mood to do that anyway. You can go your own way." That was a different Ben I saw. He was coming concerned yet stern with his words. He then turned to me and his whole expression changed.

He smiled sweetly at me and said "Arohi, don't worry dear. I don't know how much time it will take. But it will get over sooner or later and I know my boy, there's is no need for him to copy anyone's music."

"I know that Ben. I do trust him." I smiled at him and looked at Rohan who just sat there looking disturbed. Anger was written all over the face with his teeth greeted and jaws clenched. I, myself felt dejected at his miserable state. I wish I could do something to take away his pain, I just can't see him like this. It broke my heart million times.

I know that Rohan can never do something like copying anyone's music. I have listened to his music for so long. And I can say I'm a huge fan of his music. I love the style of his music, it's so unique and raw. Someone like him doesn't have the need to copy anyone's work for god's sake! But one thing is for sure, people won't stop buying his music or stop loving him because of these stupid allegations. That can never happen, ever!

"Rohan... don't worry." Ben patted Rohan's hand which he pulled back showing he was still angry, he got up without making eye contact with Ben.

"So I guess that's what you wanted to tell. I'll leave then. And don't worry I won't write or compose or record even a single song until you tell me to. I don't know about you Ben, but I do respect and trust you."

"Rohan..." Ben was about to say something but Rohan walked out of the cabin. I and Raghav got up too.

"I'll talk to you later, Ben. Let's go Arohi." Raghav walked out the cabin following Rohan. He didn't even spare a look at Ben. He was hurt too, he should be. But I felt bad for Ben, he doesn't deserve such treatment. It's not his fault.

"Don't worry about him. He'll be fine." Ben said assuring me more like he was assuring himself. I smiled at him, nodding.

"OK then, hope to meet you soon Ms. Arohi." He extended his hand for a handshake.

"Yes, Ben." I returned his smile while shaking his hand.

********

The drive to Rohan's house was a silent one. No one dared to speak anything. Rohan was really disturbed and was looking out of the window, lost in thoughts. I'm still confused about the whole issue. Everyone seems to know this "famous artist" except me. I wonder what exactly the whole actual situation is.

Rohan got out of the car as soon as we reached his house. He went straight to his room upstairs and banged his door shut, followed by a loud thud.

I just kept staring at the stairs, looking at the direction he went with thoughts hovering my mind.

"Don't worry. He'll be fine." Raghav said breaking me out of my thoughts.

"Yeah...I guess." I gave him a faint smile which he returned. "Raghav, I'll go and call Vivek and let him know about the situation."

"OK then, I'll go and check on Rohan." With that said he went upstairs.

I went into my room and called Vivek. After few rings, he answered.

"Hello, Arohi."

"Listen Vivek, some problem has occurred and the album is put on hold."

"What?" He sounded a bit shocked at the news.

"Yeah, actually someone has blamed Rohan for copying his music."

"What are you saying? Who?"

"I don't know myself. It's just that the album will start again after this mess gets cleared. So..."

"Oh God! This Rohan Nanda! I shouldn't have asked you to do this album in the first place. That guy is such a big problem himself!" I was taken aback by his words. I didn't expect Vivek to say something like this. I didn't like what he said. Why is he being rude? He doesn't even know about anything. How can he blame him just like that??! 

"Listen Vivek! Don't say anything if you don't know the whole story. Someone has accused him, how is that his fault. Rohan will never do such thing, I don't know about others but I do trust him with that." I said a bit louder. I tried to control my anger, but Vivek was irritating me. I don't understand how I was getting irritated this easily. But I just couldn't stand a word against Rohan...

"What happened to you all of a sudden? I was just..." he was trying to explain but I was not in the mood to talk to him further.

"I'm not in a mood to talk, Vivek. I'll talk to you later." I said in a plain yet stern voice and hung up before he could say anything further.

********

I looked out of my window thinking about Rohan. There's no denying that I was worried about him. I thought of talking to him but I didn't see him after returning. He didn't even come down to have dinner. Raghav said it was nothing new, he does that everytime he gets frustrated, he shuts himself in his room. I can understand him and his situation. I felt really bad for him. I wanted to help him get out of this but the truth is I don't have anything to do in this matter. Maybe I should talk to him, that will help him feel better, if not him then it will help me to feel less worried about him.

I went up to his room and knocked lightly on the door. "Rohan...." I called, not sure about what I'm going to talk to him.

"Yeah, come in." I heard his sound after few seconds. To be very honest I didn't expect him to let me in, let alone answer the door. I smiled a little before opening the door.

He was standing in the balcony, shirtless with his back facing me. I went and stood beside him staring ahead at the beautiful night. There was perfect silence, the only sound was of the light wind blowing our way. I looked at him hoping he might say something but he was silent just looking ahead of us. His eyes fixed to the view of trees dancing in the wind under the moonlight. I was saddened by his silence, maybe because I was too used to his talkative, annoying side.

"Umm...are you OK...?" I asked in a mere whisper. Seems like the silence has got to me.

"Hmmm..." That's all he said. His gaze fixed on the view.

"Rohan, please say something... Don't worry. Things will get better. I trust you. Everyone trust you. Those are just the stupid allegation and nothing else. Please stop worrying..." I could see a weak smile forming on his lips, he was still looking ahead. He didn't even respond.

"Rohan, just say something. What is it?" I asked keeping my hand on his which was placed on the grill. He looked at our hands and then at me, I was trying to read his face.

"I think you should go back to India, Arohi." His face was blank.

"I can stay for some time," I said determinedly. How can I leave him when he is already looking this miserable.

"And, what are you going to do by staying here? Anyway, as I said, I'm not going to work on the album anytime soon. So it's better if you go back. You will just waste your time here." He said trying to change my mind but I just kept looking at him, not knowing what to say. "Don't worry too much about me. I'm fine." He gave a faint smile. I saw many emotions flashing in his eyes. But he recovered from it immediately. Why does he have to hide his them? Why can't he just let it out?

"Why are you being so stubborn in sending me back to India?" I asked getting irritated.

"Why are 'you' being stubborn?" He said firing the question back on me. Why does he do that every time? But to be honest I didn't have the answer to his question. Why was I being so stubborn to stay here? Even I don't know.

"Well...you didn't answer my question. So I won't answer yours. I'll go back after some time, what's the need to hurry? I can stay for some time." I said in a cool tone, shrugging my shoulders, dodging his tricky question.

"Why Arohi? You don't want to stay away from me? Or you can't stay away from me?" I could see a smirk forming on his lips. Seriously? He wants to joke now? But that question got me off guard. I wasn't expecting that in this situation.

"Oh please! In your dreams, Mr. Nanda. But seriously?! How can you joke in such a situation?" He let out a small laugh at my question.

"Because this will help to lighten up the mood. Besides, as all say, I'm emotionless anyway!" He said plainly and looked ahead as his smile faded slowly, thinking something, maybe.

"Umm...can I ask you why?" I couldn't help my curiosity. He didn't say anything for some time.

"Long story, babes. You'll get bored."

"I won't. Just try." He looked at me with his 'oh so famous' smirk. Of course! What was I expecting from him?! He just knows how to annoy me.

"You know what, Rohan. Just forget it. You are just something else." I said rolling my eyes.

"I know, sweetheart." He said chuckling.

"There's no point in talking to you. You are so stubborn anyway. Fine, I'll leave then." I said surrendering. I know there's no point in fighting over this because, in the end, he will win and he is right too. I have nothing to do here. I might as well go now but I really wanted to stay here for some time, just to make sure that he is fine.

"Good." He said looking at me. I looked ahead, not turning towards him. 

"But Arohi..." he said getting a little closer to me. "Hmm...?" I said as I turned to face him. His eyes captured mine and I stared directly into his deep brown orbs.

"Before that..." he came more close.

"What?" My voice was low. I looked down. His gaze was too intense for me to handle.

I felt his lips close to my ear, "Leave my hand first." He said in a low husky voice and moved back. I looked up at him, who was smiling mischievously at me and gestured with his eyes at our hands.

Shit! I've been holding his hand all this while. I immediately took my hand away from his and looked down in embarrassment.

"Arohi, just look at me." He said after a pause. I looked up at him to find him looking at me with some serious expression on his face.

"What...?" I asked without taking my eyes off him.

"You should really leave. I don't want you to get in any kind of trouble because of me."

"No one is getting in trouble, Rohan. Anyway, we all know its all a lie." I said trying for one last time to change his mind but that's quite impossible. After all, Rohan Nanda never listens to anyone. He took a deep sigh and looked away from me.

"Fine. You won't listen anyway. I'll go." I said feeling defeated. 

"But just remember, I'll be back soon and I will make sure to annoy you further," I smirked at him and nudged his arm. He looked at me with an amused smile playing on his lips. He then laughed a little and I couldn't help myself from smiling at him. I was relieved in that moment seeing him carefree again, at least for some time.

"I'll be waiting for that." He said winking at me and I blushed. Oh God! Why? I turned away hoping he won't notice it but too late, he did.

"What? Did you just blush?" He asked coming more close with a mischievous smile.

"What? No!" I said looking everywhere but him. I felt my heart beat raise and I tucked my hair behind my ear. He moved closer to me than ever, making me press against the balcony grills. He placed his both hands on both sides, locking me between him and the balcony grill.

"What are you doing?" I asked as I pressed myself further against the grills, trying to keep a safe distance from him but it was too difficult as he was standing so close. I didn't even have the gap to breathe. My cheeks were burning. Ways to embarrass myself!

"Nothing..." He said in those low husky voice, sending shivers down my spine. I looked at him, who was already looking down at me, "...just thinking of kissing my girlfriend a goodbye."

"What?" I looked at him dumbstruck. I don't know why do I let him come close to me? I'm not able to understand myself anymore. I don't know what's happening to me. Why do I feel so different with him? Why do I feel worried about him? There are a lot of unanswered questions. And it's so hard trying to find the answers when you, yourself is afraid of finding them, the truth.

"What? You don't want a goodbye kiss?" He asked with chuckling playfully. I blushed again. Something is seriously wrong with me!! I'm blushing so easily these days!! I looked down, trying to get a grip on myself.

"Rohan, stop playing around. I'm sleepy, I'm going now. Bye." I said faking anger at him, pushing him away. He let go of his hold as he moved away from me. I walked past him just when he held my hand, making me stop in my track.

"Arohi."

"What now?" I said with a fake irritated tone and turned around. I didn't want to embarrass myself more by staying here. He chuckled at me, "just wanted to say thank you."

"For what?" I asked raising my eyebrow at him.

"Umm...for trusting me.." he said letting go of my hand with a smile still on his face and rubbing back of his neck. I couldn't help myself from smiling as I nodded at him. I could see a different Rohan then, he was changing, at least a little. I was happy for that.

"Good night then." He said with a small smile and I felt a little disappointed to that. I could have talked to him a little more, stayed with him a little bit more. But nevertheless, "Good night Rohan." I turned around and left the room.

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Truths and lies
and laughs and cries
and tripping and falling
and rising and moving
and loving and hating
and lusting and caring
The story of you,
The story of me.

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