Finally she had made it to Mumbai. Looking up to see the hustle and bustle around her Gauri felt a bit nervous being alone in this big city. Thankfully she was going to stay with her good friend Bhavya who has promised to help her find a job. Whipping out her phone Gauri calls to inform her friend of her arrival "Bhavya I am here." From a far distance Gauri could hear someone calling out her name which was now echoing through her cell "I'm here....see me?" Bhavya was still the same. Even though they both grew up in Bareilly Bhavya was fortunate enough to leave their small town when she was 16 when her father was transferred and promoted while her own adoptive father remained a drunk who soon left with another woman. Thinking of the woman who her mother trusted and befriended a slight sad chuckle escaped her lips. The bitter taste of betrayal that sent her adoptive mother into a downward spiral was deeply carved into Gauri's heart. Closing her eyes for a few seconds to remind herself that love and trust is a weakness that will only become your downfall. And her mother was the perfect reminder. Love gave her mother nothing but pain and heartache to which Gauri had to witness everyday and every night. Till this day she could still hear her mother's cries while being sprawled out on the floor with empty bottles that was not successful in stopping the pain inside her mother's heart. And whenever her mother would think about the trust she gave to the other woman only anguish and anger could be seen throughout those days. Soon depression finally won leaving Gauri to be alone. That was when Bhavya told Gauri to come to Mumbai. "Gauri...you have no one there...your dad left...your mother passed...come to Mumbai and make a life for yourself." Reading those words from her friend gave Gauri strength to believe that she can change her fate. Though her prayers were never answered...love was never fair...and trust was always one- sided....but the one thing Gauri was sure of is "I have only one life. Only I can make the most of it." Her wish was simple...to live the rest of her life peacefully. She didn't care for the burden of love or the bonding of friendships. Having Bhavya was more than enough. Trying her best to give her friend a big smile Gauri felt warmth the moment two arms were wrapped around her body "Gauri! You're here! I have great news too! I found you a job already!" Surprised "Wow already? I don't even have any type of degree how did you even manage?"

Feeling proud Bhavya took out a yellow folder "I made a portfolio of all your designs and Oberois Fashions were in awe of them! They say it's perfect with their new campaign of "Old and Classy." They say your designs are simple and beautiful. The patterns you use are so intricate that they want an interview tomorrow. Seems like the deadline for their campaign is coming up and there is much competition out there."

Gauri: Are they hiring me as a designer?!

Bhavya puts her head down: No...more like an intern/asssitant. But Gauri don't be sad...this is a great opportunity!

Gauri smiles: Sad? I am thrilled. I would be shocked if they gave someone like me a position like that. With no schooling or proper training this opportunity is more than enough. Be it intern or assistant as long as I can do my best I am happy. Besides...designing is what I enjoy most. I don't need any title nor any prestigious position.

Bhavya's eyes couldn't help but start to water hugging her friend tighter "Gauri....Life can be more if you want it. I will be here for you! Grab that happiness and never let it go! It's okay to want more for yourself."

Not wanting to spoil her friend's speech Gauri kept her thoughts to herself "I don't want much." Patting Bhavya's back "Okay okay...let go...I'm so tired from my travels lets head to your house." With a big smile " You mean lets head HOME... you have a big day tomorrow Gauri."

********

Looking at the copies of "that" portfolio Omkara couldn't wait to see it come to life. The drawings were all in black pencil...he needed to see colors... " I want to know what kind of colors are floating in her mind in order to bring this to life."