Chapter - 27

Location - Malhotra Mansion

Skipping alternate steps, she ran down the stairs, into the hall at the speed of a jet; like a bat out of hell - super-excitedly and paused at the last one, panting heavily to take a look of the person - who was next to her father or to be more precise was her father from the previous 4 years. Her eyes watered up seeing him after almost an year - their last meeting being their second anniversary. He was standing in the middle of the hall; long - legged and sturdy in his form - looking nothing close to senility despite 70 years of age - his face identical to that of Manik - in short, a person looking much of a muchness to Manik - the differing factor being just the age. He turned around to find her misty - eyed, with a smile playing on her lips. Not wasting another second, she sprung in his arms that were thrown open in the air; ready to enclose her in them. She was so happy and delighted that her voice stuck in her throat and all she could utter was Dad!He lifted her up and twirled about - patting her head gently to calm her tears that he felt as a wetness on his shoulder and said Dadda doesn't like Princess crying na. I thought you will be happy seeing me but here you are weeping. I shouldn't have come. Hearing this, she quickly wiped her tears and replied, tightening the hug Princess is not crying. She is so happy that happiness is coming out of eyes as water. He chuckled at her answer and said, kissing her head Dadda missed you so much baby. She puffed her cheeks like Shin-chan, and replied, breaking the hug and turning to other side Jhoot! If you would have missed me na then you would have come on my birthday. But no! Dada ko toh baby se bhi zyada important kaam hain. Mujhe nahi karni apse baat. Cutty. Certain that this was coming and knowing exactly how to mollify his angry bird, he took out a big bar of her favorite chocolate from his pocket and displayed it to her, keeping it on his palm and said, catching his ear with the other hand Sorry Baccha! Nothing is important than baby and trust me - I tried but nahi hua. I am sorry. Being the wax - hearted and melted by his warm gesture, she smilingly grabbed the chocolate and replied, freeing his ear from his hold Its Okaye! But last time haan. Iske baad if you miss my birthday - then I will do pakki wali cutty. He planted a kiss on her forehead and said, again clasping her to his bosom Promise it won't happen again.

Mr. Manvik Malhotra - the powerful and mighty wall protecting Manik and Nandini from Nyonika; the former heir of Malhotra empire who is settled in London handling the international extension of Malhotra Industries. He was one of the two Men to whom Nandini was dearer than life; another cold - hearted and love - deprived prig born out of Nyonika's wickedness whom Nandini had softened with her love and affection. He was a happy Man; a person completely opposite to what he had become after Nyonika's deceit; the proud father of his son and daughter - in - law who was much more than a daughter to him and the sole reason behind the drastic change in his life - change that brought two blessings his life was void of - Euphoria and Calm.

Post their patch - up and confession of love; Manik had disclosed his little secret which was then, no longer a secret to the world except his Dad. Mr. Malhotra wasn't a black - hearted man as Nyonika who hated her own blood; instead he was a sad soul who was deserted by the one he loved. Though miles separated them, he was never heedless of the happenings in his Son's life and probably he was the only reason - Nyonika spared Manik's life. On hearing about Nandini - Mr. Malhotra was meddled up in confused emotions. He was overjoyed by the immense delight and ecstasy in Manik's voice when he was talking about Nandini but at the same time - he din't want Manik to get hurt. Even after getting a fair picture of Nandini's character from Manik's words - he wasn't sure of her presence in his life - probably because of his erroneous belief that middle - class girls love only wealth and not the possessor - an opinion that was imbibed in his mind as a result of Nyonika's deception. He din't hide his worry and openly expressed his doubts to Manik - who understood his father's concern and proposed him to have a meet with Nandini. Seeing how his son was so much into her and giving his little inner voice that was pushing him to accept Nandini's goodness, a chance - he agreed, but on a condition that Manik won't inform her about it as he wanted to show up in front of her randomly and examine her behavior and attitude. Being more confident in Nandini than himself; Manik readily gave a nod without any arguments or reasoning that just showed Mr. Malhotra the amount of trust he had in Nandini.

**********************

Retour en arrire

It was another hectic day at medical college for a visibly tired and worn - out Nandini who was standing at college gate for hiring a taxi; unlike every other day when Manik would be already there for her with a bottle of fresh juice and his charming smile that would send her exhaustion out of the window and enliven her. But that day; he wasn't there as Fab 5 were having their first concert at an auditorium; her destination for which she was looking for a vehicle impatiently but was failing miserably to get one. Cursing herself for forbidding Manik to come and praying her Aiyappa to send a magic vehicle for her; she was crossing the road when she fell on the ground with a jerk on being slightly hit by a grand BMW. The driver hurriedly jumped out of the car to help her and so did the owner - Mr. Malhotra - who had landed up in Mumbai to surprise his son and attend his first concert and also to catch up with Nandini. He instantly recognized her as he had seen a lot of pictures of hers that were sent to him by Manik and smirked at getting such a perfect opportunity to see the real face of Nandini - which would be easier to do in Manik's absence.

Gearing up to hear a rant of complains and threats - he walked towards her and asked, not so humbly You alright? Can't you see and walk? Giving a break to her 'rub-the-mud-off-your-clothes' activity, she looked up and was amazed to see the resemblance of the person to Manik. Taking a keen dekko of his face, she replied politely I am Sorry Sir! Actually I was in a hurry so I din't see Sorry! He was astonished by her earnest apology; nonplussed at seeing her regret even when not being at fault. He was pleased on finding such a soul which was free from vanity in a world where blame - game is as common as air. Her this gesture had already done half of the work but he wanted to test her more, so getting a little courteous he said You are hurt. We will drop you to your stop. He proposed her a lift, so that he can study and asses her more closely but to his dismay, she rejected in genteel way saying she would manage on her own. Her self - respect did have its impact but not wanting to let such an awesome chance to slip, he urged in a more servile manner I would be obliged to do so. Take it as a beg - pardon. Not wanting to disappoint the elderly person, she assented and took the back seat of the car, beside Mr. Malhotra.

The car had hardly started, when Nandini's phone began ringing and Mr. Malhotra saw Manik's name flashing on the screen. She ebulliently picked the call and Mr. Malhotra heard Manik's voice, though a little feeble but it was audible, saying Baby Tum kahan ho? Itna late hogaya hai. College to khatm huay kitna time hogaya. Tum theek ho na? Mr. Malhotra was expecting an exaggerated narration of the recent event from Nandini - just like all the other girls do - but disproving his supposition, she replied calmly Manik Calm Down! I am perfectly fine and I will be reaching soon. You concentrate on the performance and tumne khana khaya na? He was rapt by her answer and curiosity built up inside him to know why she didn't put the accident in picture and decided to ask her about it once she hangs up. He gave an under wraps smile, on hearing his son getting romantic over the phone that turned her into a tomato and he concluded that she, as Manik had told him, is definitely a cute thing. But shooing away the praising of her sweetness, and silencing his heart that was fully convinced by now, he asked - a couple of minutes later after she cut the line Umm! I know its personal question but why did you not inform him about the hit and fall? She smiled warmly and answered I din't inform because he will get worried and start panicking - more than what is required. It will take more 20 minutes to reach there and if he comes to know na - he will start cursing himself for not being able to protect me, which is not true and will also cry. Putting him in such a situation is the last thing I want. I know once he sees me and this cut, all this will happen - but then I will be there to console him. He was sent into a trance and under its influence, he asked involuntarily You love him a lot. Don't you? She was a bit confused by the sudden inquiry but being the most enthusiastic one when someone mentioned Manik and Love, she replied lovingly, staring at his picture which was the wallpaper of her phone and caressing it with her thumb Hmm! I really love him a lot. But I am sure not more than how much he loves me. He smiled reminiscing Manik saying exactly the same words to him and opened his mouth to speak thinking she won't reply further but stopped when she continued And You know why? Because he owns the most beautiful heart in this world. Because he is the bearer of the purest soul. Because he loves his dear ones so much that he can even die protecting them. Because he finds happiness in my open hair and ear rings. Because my mere existence is the reason behind his smile. Because he looks at me the way no one else does. Because he takes care of me like I am a delicate doll. Because he is scared to loose me, I don't know why. Because he wakes up and sleeps with my voice. Because he wants to get old with me. Because he irritates me a lot and again pacifies me in the most endearing way. Because he calls me Baby and treats me like one. Because he says darkness doesn't scare him when I am around. Because he loves stars. Because he is selfless. Because he is my life. Because he loves me - and I love him more. He was awestruck, overjoyed, benumbed, over the moon and enraptured by her utterance; satisfied and convinced that no one could love Manik more than this elfin girlie and that she isn't a materialistic or avaricious lady but a spiritual and aesthetic pixie, a faerie who had come to light up his son's darkened world. At that moment, she unknowingly unrooted the dark rose bush of hatred and angst from his heart and authenticated that all women are not rapacious like Nyonika - that love still exists in the world and he was beyond happy that his son is fortunate enough to have found it. Just within 5 minutes, she washed off the dirt of bad memories that had covered his heart for years and made her place; a huge, enormous one in it.

He grinned widely seeing her beholding his photo with utmost love that was shining in her eyes in the form of tears and his hands moved on their own accord to caress her head and he said God Bless You and Your Love dear. Coming out of the reverie, she realized what all she said and replied, embarrassed Umm! Sorry Sir! I guess I spoke too much. I hope you din't mind. Stunning her by abruptly planting a kiss on her forehead, he said impishly Why would I mind hearing something so important about my son, Nandini? Her forehead crinkled, brows knitted and lips pouted in suspicion, when the words 'Son' and 'Nandini' fell in her ear and after processing all the things - his sameness to Manik, Son!, and him knowing her name - in her ingenious brain, she exclaimed Aap Manik ke Dad ho? His lips twitched in a smirk seeing her staggered face and he nodded, causing her jaw to drop and touch the seat. Noticing the tension build up in her and her shivering body, he said, calming her nerves Hey its Okay! Don't be scared. Relax okay! Monster ka daddy hoon - per trust me I can't be monstrous to such a cute baby girl like you. She flushed listening the word 'Monster' and made a quick mental note to take account from Manik for telling this to his Dad but smiled, feeling comfortable with his talks and replied, after struggling a few seconds to gather some words from her dictionary which had almost ditched her I am Glad to meet you Sir. Thank You for attending the concert - Manik will be really happy. His lips molded into yet another curve seeing her get beatific just with the thought of Manik's merry and he was about to reply but stopped feeling the car halt and looked out to see that they have reached the auditorium. At the same time, her phone again started ringing and being aware of his Son's restless, he signaled her to go to and she stepped out of the car.

Oh Freak Baby! Yeh kaise hua? Bola tha maine tumhe ke main aunga lene - per nahi. Tumhe to apni chalani hai. Dekho kitna katgaya hai. Manik literally shouted, seeing the slight cut on her knee that was peeking out through the torn jeans and swiftly picked her up in his arms and again continued, seating her on a nearby bench My Baby! Bohot dard horaha hai na? I am shorry. Saying this he bowed his head in front of her guiltily, hiding his tears from her but knowing very well about his reaction, she lifted his face, cupping it in her hands and said, resting her forehead on his Baby is fine Papa! Bas chotu sa cut hai - ittu sa. I am sorry for being careless. Mujhe dhyaan se road cross karna chahiye tha - unki koi ghalti nahi thi. His eyes shot up and he reddened in anger the second he heard someone had hit her and he asked, wrath clear in voice Kiski car thi woh? Who is that b .. He was shushed by Nandini who kept her finger on his lips and said, while smoothing the creases on his forehead Sssh! No Gussha! You know na Baby doesn't like it. Tell that anger uncle to go away. Baby hates him. She said childishly making Manik smile and Mr. Malhotra; who was watching all this from a distance; was at loss of words seeing how she easily pulled off the task of quelling Manik's anger which he believed was impossible to be accomplished without shattering of a few Vases and punching the walls.

Manik kissed her temple after breaking the hug they were sharing and asked," Per Baby I need to know who did this. He froze at his place, perhaps out of disbelief of hearing a well - known dear voice that said I did that Son. And I apologize for that. Manik's looked at Nandini hopefully, hoping against hope for her to assure him that the Voice was real and his thoughts were the reality and not hallucination. Reading his unsaid wish from his eyes and granting it, she bobbed her head and slowly turned him about, only to see him run and smash into his Father's bosom whilst crying like a kid, gladsome and exhilarated to the moon and back on meeting his Dad after such a long time. Nandini was tickled pink on seeing the reunion of the father - son duo and tears brimmed in her eyes but she blinked them away as she din't want the beautiful picture infront of her eyes to get blurred. They parted after a good 5 minutes and Mr. Malhotra said I don't need to ask about your well - being because I am sure you are more than fine. Manik's brows furrowed in puzzlement and solving it, Mr. Malhotra added, pointing his finger towards NandinShe loves you too much to let anything harm you. You were right about her. Manik blushed and forwarded his hand to Nandini which she speedily grabbed and replied, side - hugging her I Know Dad. So do you like your daughter - in - law? Nandini was goggle - eyed as it was the first time he had mentioned, though indirectly, about getting married and seeing her expression, he pulled her closer and said What? Aise kya dekhrahi ho? Don't be so amazed. You are the would be Mrs. Manik Malhotra and there are no two ways about this. Are they? Too much blushed - out to utter anything, she just gave a shy smile and signaled a gentle No and he smirked seeing her flushed. Breaking their dwam by faking a cough, Mr. Malhotra replied, puckishly Who wouldn't like to have such an adorable 19 year - old baby as daughter - in - law. A little more blood rushed into her cheeks, turning them scarlet and before she could run away and hide herself somewhere, Mr. Malhotra, took her in a hug and rejoined I can't thank God in any way for sending you in my son's life. You are truly a blessing. MaNan smiled and she hugged him back, moved by his words and promised him to be always by Manik's side.

Their relation din't mold into that of a father - daughter in a split second; it was a gradual process - an outcome of earnest contribution from both the sides - his Care and her Love. But the turning point, which took their relationship to such a pure level was when on a visit to Mumbai - he fell ill due to typhoid and was bed ridden. He was affected by the way she had cared for him, getting into the clothes of a mother, despite her busy schedule and heartily addressed her as his daughter - elating her and filling in the empty space of a father in her life. Since then, she has been the apple of his eye, his tiny fay whom he pampered like a Princess and mollycoddled like a 2 - year old. For her, he was not a percent less than her Appa with whom she would be carefree and stubborn; on whose head she could sit and rule the world and the one person who would always watch her back. This was another one of the infinite reasons; that she loved and respected his father as her own; why Manik Loved her so much.

***********************

You are Back again to snatch by Baby from me eh? Manik's complaining voice disturbed the dad - princess mo and Mr. Malhotra said sportively, breaking the hug Yeah! My Jealous Monster. And the next second, he pulled Manik in a tight hug and asked in a choked, caring tone You Fine na Son? I am sorry for being careless. I couldn't protect you. Nandini sighed, on the signature habit of the Dad - Son pair of blaming themselves whenever a loved one gets hurt and then Manik replied, smilingly Don't be sorry Dad! It wasn't your fault. I am completely fine. See. He pulled apart and Mr. Malhotra planted a kiss on his forehead.

And you know dad, she even pointed a gun at him. Your daughter has grown very brave. Manik recounted the story of Nandini's Valiance against Vadhera to Mr. Malhotra, who was seated in the opposite sofa and was busy raking his fingers through Nandini's hair who was snuggled in her beloved Dad's arms with her head resting on his chest. Mr. Malhotra planted a kiss on her hairs and said Manik you forgot to tell that slap thing. MaNan's faces instantaneously turned into big question marks, their minds ruminating how he already knows about it and intuiting this, he answeredDon't give me those looks. I know what is going on in my children's life. Comissioner is a friend of mine. My Princess made me really proud. Well done beta. MaNan smiled and he asked patting Nandini's cheeks lightly Dada ko apna award nahi dikhaogi? She shook her head up and down vigorously like a kid and speedily fetched the trophy from their room. Wow! So my little baby is the best cardiologist in the country. Your success warmed the cockles of my heart. Now time for baby's gift. Close your eyes and no cheating. Mr. Malhotra said and hearing the word gift, filled her with joys of spring and she gave a bubbly giggle; making the Malhotra Men go all aww. Mr. Malhotra gave a signal to his chauffeur and within 5 minutes the hall was filled with bouquets, chocolates and numerous gift boxes. A grin plastered on their faces, seeing Nandini jumping and bouncing on a sofa jejunely making their hearts too smile and jump in merriment with her contagious chuckles. Just then, Mr. Malhotra's phone started ringing and the echoing of laughter stopped abruptly as Nandini understood it was time for him to leave. Seeing her sad, Mr. Malhotra said cupping her cheeks Don't be sad baccha. Dadda phir ayenge next month. Nandini promise. She din't get pacified and retorted No Dad! This is so bad. How can you come only for 4 hours? Cheating this is. I hate you for this. You always say that you will stay longer but every time you leave early. Mr. Malhotra and Manik smiled at the way she was grumbling so cutely but before her kvetching turns into sobbing, he took her in a bear hug and explainedHoney Bee I am so sorry. Per Dada has got loads of work. I came to see you two with great difficulty. Please let Dada go with a smile. Good Baccha na. I promise when I will come next time - will stay for 2 days. Okaye? She broke the hug and replied or rather warned, showing him the index finger You should stand by your words. Agar apne next time ese kiya na toh main apse sacchi me baat nahi karungi aur chocolate se bhi nahi manungi aur gifts bhi nahi lungi. Overwhelmed by her adorbs and more than ready to be bossed by her - he nodded and again took her in a good bye hug. Manik too joined them and after bidding a touchy feely good bye - Mr. Malhotra left with a heavy heart. Though wanting badly to do so, she couldn't cry as her Dad hated her tears, so she just hugged Manik tightly which he reciprocated with equal intensity and then breaking the hug - they moved to the dining hall to have their dinner and retired to their room after finishing it.

Cuddled safely in his embrace, Nandini said, while tracing his features with her fingers I Love You Manik. For bringing Dad in my life. He bussed her fingers that were on his lips and replied And I Love You for loving him so much. But tell me one thing. You love Papa more or Dada more? He smirked waggishly seeing her dilemma and she replied a few minutes later, coming out of the brown study Umm! I Love Papa more. Had you not been in my life Manik - I wouldn't have met Dad. And I know its a bit selfish - but I can't love anyone more than you. Its just not in my control. I am sorry if you felt bad. He smiled, whelmed by her reply and just placed his lips on hers as an answer. None willed to let the other's lip go and kissed until they were out of breath. Joining his forehead with hers, he spooned her cheek in his palm and saidYou don't need to be sorry honey. I would have mind if you wouldn't have taken my name. I am not generous at all when it comes to your love. I am the biggest miser in this case. Saying this, he took her lips once again for another but short goodnight kiss. She again got into his big shirt and he engulfed her in his arms, himself smiling feeling her peaceful smile against the flexure of his neck and while playing and cuddling, they unknowingly fell asleep.

To Be Continued ..

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL MY LOVELY FOLLOWERS PART IS COMING BACK
YAY PARTYYYY