Recap: Randhir and Sanyukta work together for a play at Prithvi theatre. Randhir comes across Sanyukta's boyfriend Siddharth and he just witnesses a changed personality of Sanyukta. After the successful premiere of their play, Randhir and Sanyukta happened to meet at Marine drive where Randhir tries to help Sanyukta get back her real 'self'. After their conversation Randhir drops her at Naina's house.

It had been 2 weeks since Randhir saw Sanyukta last time at Marine drive. Sanyukta never really showed up at the next few shows at the theatre. Randhir always used to look out in the audience for her. He even thought of going to her college to meet her, but somehow, he was not getting the time to go meet her due to endless hours of shooting and play rehearsals. However, Randhir was now worried about her. He thought to call her and opened her contact number in his mobile.

Randhir (scrolling through his contacts): Hope Chashmish did not change her number!

Randhir found Sanyukta's contact number and tried to call her when a message popped up on his phone "Do you want to unblock this contact number?"

Randhir (in mind): Unblock???? When the hell did I block Sanyukta's contact...?.

It was then he recalled Sanyukta's words....

Sanyukta: We don't block the numbers of our friends, Mr. Shekhawat.... We block the numbers of strangers. So, we are strangers!

Randhir: So, Chashmish was saying that day that I had blocked her number.....but how the hell did this happen?

Randhir even checked his other contacts to see if it was some sort of technical glitch but none of his other contacts were blocked....

Randhir (kicking himself in mind): How can I make such a mistake? .... how is it even possible that I blocked Sanyukta's contact number? let it be.....this is not the time to think about past mistakes!

Randhir immediately unblocked Sanyukta's contact number and tried to call her but her phone was unreachable.

Randhir: Maybe Chashmish also blocked me after realizing that I have blocked her.... Maybe, I should just go to her college and meet her! I hope she is fine!

Randhir took his car keys and drove to St. Xavier's college. After an hour drive, Randhir reached St. Xavier's college. He looked at his watch and saw that it was 2 PM in the afternoon.

Randhir (in mind): Its lunch time. Chashmish should be free right now.....I will clear all misunderstandings between us Chashmish.....

Randhir was about to get out of his car, when his phone rang. It was the producer of the play.

On Call

Randhir: Good Afternoon Sir. How are you doing?

Producer: Afternoon Randhir. I am doing good. I just called to give you a good news.....

Randhir: Good news?

Producer: Yeah.....as you know that this Sunday, we are having the final show of our play......so I have invited one of my closest friends from the industry......Rohit Malhotra....

Randhir (surprised): Rohit....Rohit Malhotra.....You mean the Rohit Malhotra......CEO of Celluloid Production house....?

Producer: Exactly Randhir......This is a big opportunity for you.....I have known Rohit for years and he always gives opportunities to young talent and believe me.....right now he is in search of someone like you! This could be a golden chance for you Randhir.....This final show of the play can be the one that turns your life around.....So this has got to be the best performance you deliver on stage! You are understanding me ....Right Randhir?

Randhir (Taking in the producer's words): Yes....Yes Sir.......!

Producer: So, Will this be your finest performance on Sunday?

Randhir: Yes Sir.....Definitely!

Producer (enthusiastically): That's the spirit Randhir! I expect only the best from you! See you at the Rehearsals!

Randhir: Right Sir!

Call Ends

Randhir took a minute to absorb everything. He couldn't believe that he was going to perform in front of Rohit Malhotra. This really could be a life changing opportunity for him! There are only a few opportunities in life which can turn your life 360 degrees and this was one for Randhir. It was all because of Sanyukta that such an opportunity even came his way.

Randhir (coming out of trance): Chashmish!.....

He came out of his car and was about to enter the gate when he saw that a guard was standing at the gate and was checking College Ids of students before allowing them to enter the premises.

Randhir (Hitting his car door in frustration): What the hell!

Randhir was just thinking of a way to enter the college to see Sanyukta when he heard a loud shrill from 2-3 girls.

Group of Girls (excitedly): Oh my God.......Its Randhir Shekhawat!

Randhir quickly realised that they were his fans and right now he was in no mood to deal with them. He was about to sit in his car when something struck his mind and he closed the door of his car and turned towards the girls.

Randhir (Smiling charmingly): Hi Guys.....

Girls (speaking together): Hi.....Sir can we please take a selfie with you? Please sir....just one selfie and your autograph!

Randhir(smiling): Sure! Why not? But let's get a little away from the college gate......I don't want a crowd here!

Randhir took selfies with the girls and was giving them autographs one by one. He was also talking to them while giving his autographs.

Randhir: So, you girls like Sadda Haq?

Girls (speaking together): We love the show and we love you.....!

Randhir (Smiling): Well Thank you.....What are your names?

The girls introduced themselves one by one to him!

Girl 1: Hi I am Ananya.....and I am a huge fan of you sir!

Randhir(Signing Ananya's Notebook): To Ananya......With lots of love.........From Randhir......(handing her notebook back) Here you go Ananya.....!

Ananya: Thank you so much sir!

Girl 2: Hello Sir.....My name is Aditi!

Randhir (Signing Aditi's Notebook): To Aditi......With lots of Love......From Randhir!

Randhir turned to the next girl and she was wearing rimless spectacles and was looking very sincere. She kind of reminded Randhir about Sanyukta....

Girl 3 (nervously adjusting her spectacles and handing her register to him): Hi....Hi Sir! I am Sia....

Randhir signed her register absentmindedly but while handing it back to her he saw that the register had "Psychology" written on top of it.

Sia (reading out his autograph): To my dearest "Chashmish".....With lots of Love.... from Randhir

Randhir came out of his thoughts hearing Sia's voice. He had absentmindedly addressed the autograph to "Chashmish". On the other hand, Aditi and Ananya started laughing at Sia as they thought that Randhir had deliberately made fun of her! Randhir looked at Sia who felt very embarrassed and humiliated. She was trying to control her tears and was clutching her register close to her.

Till then the bell rung and Lunch break was over and students were entering back to attend the remaining classes.

Aditi and Ananya (teasing her): Ok Bye "Chashmish"!

Both Aditi and Ananya left.....leaving an embarrassed Sia alone with Randhir!

Randhir felt very guilty looking at Sia rubbing her tears and controlling herself from crying out loud. He had no intention of making fun of her in front of her friends. Sia reminded him so much of Sanyukta that he mistakenly addressed that autograph to "Chashmish" ....

Sia was about to leave when Randhir tried to stop her!

Randhir (calling out to Sia): "Chashmish" please wait na....!

Hearing him again address her as "Chashmish", she couldn't control herself and started crying inconsolably.

Randhir (Closing his eyes in frustration): I am sooooo Sorry......I didn't intend to make fun of you!

Sia (hiccupping while crying and wiping her tears): Oh so..... (sarcastically) this is your general way of addressing your fans....?

Randhir: Hey you are really misunderstanding me......I really didn't mean to make fun of you!

Randhir was trying to defend himself but Sia was crying inconsolably......

Randhir (Handing out his handkerchief to Sia): Here take this......you know I can't see tears in your eyes "Chashmish"!

Randhir closed his eyes and realised that what a blunder he has done again!

Randhir (speaking up his mind loudly): Man!.....What is wrong with me today?

Sia took his handkerchief and again started crying inconsolably. She was about to leave when Randhir again stopped her.

Randhir: Hey please give me one chance to explain myself......Please!

Sia stopped and sat quietly on the nearby bench waiting for him to explain.

Randhir (sitting on the bench beside her): See......I didn't mean to address you as "Chashmish".....Its just that you remind me of someone very close to me and I call her Chashmish.....so it just came out in reflex. I am really very sorry......Its just that I miss my friend a lot and .....(sighing) let it be.....(holding his ears) I am really very sorry.

Sia (hiccupping and wiping her tears): You.....you were really not making fun of me? You are not lying right....? (Cutely wiping her nose) I hate lies and I hate liars!

Randhir (smiling at her): I swear.....I am not lying! Now can you please smile?

Randhir suddenly saw an ice cream cart and thought something.

Randhir: What's your favourite ice cream flavour?

Sia (confused): What?

Randhir: Tell na.....your favourite ice cream flavour?

Sia (innocently): Chocolate!

Randhir immediately bought one chocolate cone and handed it to Sia.

Sia: You didn't need to buy this.....I forgive you.....!

Randhir: Please take it for my sake....

Sia took the cone and started eating happily.

Randhir (thinking something): You don't have any remaining classes today? I mean your friends went inside.

Sia: No actually.....I have Psychology as my elective. I had my other classes in the morning but Psychology class got cancelled.

Randhir: Psychology! You like Psychology?

Sia: Actually, I did not like it initially but our professor this Semester teaches so well that she has inspired me to go ahead in this field.

Randhir: Really?

Sia: Yeah.....Sanyukta ma'am is so good that she clears all my concepts and doubts in one go....

Randhir (trying to know more): Sanyukta ma'am.......sounds like one good professor to me!

Sia: Good.....Sanyukta ma'am is the best!

Randhir: So why did your class got cancelled today?

Sia: Sanyukta Ma'am is on leave na....that's why!

Randhir (In trance): Why is she on leave?

Sia (looking at him surprised): Excuse me?

Randhir (clearing his thoughts and covering up his words): No I mean.....she sounds very sincere......doesn't seem like someone who would take leave without any reason!

Sia: Yeah.....but its not like we can't contact her. Sanyukta ma'am always lets students to come to staff quarters if we have any doubts but nowadays there is very much strictness as some boys go and misbehave with professors, so they have actually restricted access of staff quarters to the students.

Randhir (thinking something): Hmmmm.....

Sia (looking at her watch): I think I should leave now.....Its already very late. Thank you for the ice cream.....

Randhir(smiling): Pleasure is all mine.....! Hey do you want me to give a fresh autograph to you?....I am really sorry for the previous one!

Sia (smiling): Umm let it be.....I now feel special being addressed as Chashmish! You seem very close to her.....so now I am honoured that you found a glimpse of her in me! Goodbye!

Randhir: Bye!

After that Sia left and Randhir thought to go to the staff quarters and meet Sanyukta there. He drove to the staff quarters nearby and parked his car on the side of the road and locked it properly. He entered the building and saw a lady guard sitting there.

Randhir (to the guard): I am here to meet Sanyukta Aggarwal!

Guard (strictly): And who are you?

Randhir: I am her......

Guard (interrupting him): Let me tell you.....If you are one of those who claims to be a friend with the professor, then you can get the hell out of here. Many boys come here and enter as friends then harass the professors.....So if you are a friend then you can get the hell out of here.....Call Sanyukta mam and meet her outside. Only relatives are allowed to enter the staff quarters.

Randhir thought for a moment and he was ready with the perfect lie.

Randhir (whispering to the guard): Actually madam.....the thing is that you have to give me entry as Ms. Aggarwal's friend only.....(looking here and there) actually I am quite closely related to her but we don't really want to disclose everything publicly as of now....if you know what I mean.....!

Guard (suspiciously looking at him and raising her eyebrows): You are implying that you are her boyfriend? And let me ask you again....that you are here to meet Ms. Sanyukta Aggarwal?

For a moment Randhir thought that maybe Siddharth visited Sanyukta in her quarters and so the guard may know that he is not her boyfriend. However, if he knew Sanyukta even 1% then he knew that she was someone who would not let her personal matters interfere in her professional arena. She wanted to maintain her integrity as a professor at least after what happened at the theatre, so she was not someone who would flaunt her relationship status like this. Although Sanyukta has changed a lot, but Randhir still took a hunch that Siddharth must not have visited here and the guard was getting suspicious about him only based on Sanyukta's simple and sincere image. So, he thought to continue lying.

Randhir (to the guard): Actually you are wrong..... I am not Sanyukta's boyfriend......The relationship we share is much deeper than that. I am actually her "Fiancé". We actually met in Delhi and we are gonna get married soon. Actually Sanyukta was transferred here just a few months back.....so she doesn't really wants to disclose our relationship.

The Guard pondered upon his words for a few moments. He was actually right about everything. Sanyukta had shifted to Mumbai only a few months back and the way he described her.....he didn't seem like a loafer or anything. She thought that he was saying the truth.

Guard (thinking something): Ohh so that is why Sanyukta mam has submitted her resignation and has filed an application for vacating the staff quarters!

Randhir (shocked): Resignation?

Guard: Yeah.....Sir if you live here in Mumbai only then let her do this job na.....Even students want her to stay and even the dean is asking her to reconsider her decision. She has time to withdraw her resignation till the end of her notice period. Sir.....I know its your personal matter but women work even after marriage and can maintain home as well. Let her work here na Sir.....

Randhir (in mind): Chashmish has filed for her resignation......Why?

Guard (waving hands in front of Randhir): Sir....you are listening right?

Randhir (Coming out of trance): Yeah.....Yeah I will talk to her about this. Can I now go and meet her?

Guard: Ok Sir.....Actually Sanyukta Mam is not here right now. She has gone out but she might be back. You can enter her quarter with her. She has her keys.....so.....(seeing Sanyukta entering the premises).....Oh she is right here!

Randhir's eyes got widened and he turned back and saw that Sanyukta was entering the Staff quarters while talking with her colleague. Randhir didn't want Sanyukta to know that he lied to get in here and at the same time he was worried if the guard addressed him as her fiancé in front of her, then a huge scene would get created. He had to think of something.

Randhir (to the guard): Listen....please don't address me as Sanyukta's Fiancé right now.....as she is with her colleagues and I told you that we have not yet revealed anything here. So, if you could just avoid mentioning it......that would be great.

Guard: Don't worry Sir.....I understand!

Sanyukta came forward and saw Randhir standing at the gate and talking to the guard.

Sanyukta (looking towards him): What are you doing here?

Guard: Mam.....he is here to meet you! I was just doing a background check for security purposes. I didn't knew about the both of you.....

Sanyukta (Confused): What?

Randhir (interrupting them): I really need to talk to you Sanyukta.

Sanyukta was about to snap at him when he suddenly held her hand and brought her closer and looked straight in her eyes.....

Randhir (looking intensely at her): Its Urgent Sanyukta.....Please....!

Sanyukta just looked at him for a few moments and then turned her face away.

Sanyukta (sighing): Fine! Come with me.....

Sanyukta walked towards her quarter and unlocked the door. Randhir followed her inside the quarter. Sanyukta kept her bag aside and asked him to sit. She went inside the kitchen and brought a glass of water for him.

Randhir (taking the glass): Thanks.....

Randhir drank the water and kept the glass on the table while Sanyukta sat in front of him.

Sanyukta (folding her arms): So tell me Randhir.....What was so important that you came to my quarter to meet me?

Randhir: Chashmish I just wanted....

Sanyukta (interrupting him): Its Sanyukta......

Randhir (sighing): Sanyukta.... I came here just to clear everything between us......I want to clear all the misunderstandings that we have between us.....

Sanyukta (adjusting her spectacles): Randhir.....misunderstandings crop between those people who have some level of understanding between them and you and me don't share any level of understanding at all......

Randhir: Chash.....

Sanyukta glared him and so he corrected himself....

Randhir: Sanyukta don't tell me that our friendship meant nothing to you....

Sanyukta: Randhir each and every relationship needs two people to maintain it. No relationship can be sustained by one person alone. You were never really my friend. It was always just me who considered you a friend. Friends stand by each other.......they have each other's back and they don't play petty ignorance and egoistic games. For you, our friendship was nothing but the result of a bet.

Randhir (frustrated): Sanyukta you know that is not true.......

Sanyukta (emotionally): Initially I also felt that Randhir.....that our friendship meant more than that bet for you and that is the reason that I overlooked all your lies......but my circumstances and time have clearly shown me that I was nothing more than an object of entertainment and passing time in Delhi for you. (Tears started coming out of Sanyukta's eyes) You think of me as a toy, Randhir. You just come to me as per your convenience and you ignore me as and when you want. The way you left Mumbai.....you never even contacted me......(In a trance) you were not there when I needed you the most. I kept calling you that night.....even left a lot of messages........you were not there to console me when...when.....

Realising what she was going to say.....she controlled herself and wiped her tears and got up. While Randhir wanted to know what was going on with her. She was talking about what circumstances.....

Sanyukta (turning her back to him): Just get out of here Randhir......I don't want to talk to you....

Randhir held her arm and turned her towards himself.

Randhir (looking in her eyes): What happened Chashmish? Tell me what's wrong? What happened?

Sanyukta (angrily freeing herself from his hold): Why are you bothered now Randhir? You wanted to block me out of your life and you did...

Randhir (angrily interrupting her): I never blocked your number Sanyukta..... Trust me!!!!......I never blocked your number. I noticed it today that your contact was blocked.....believe me please.....

Sanyukta: You know what Randhir......I can't trust you.....I really can't because every time I try to trust you......you just break it into pieces ( joining her hands in front of him) believe me.....I don't have any strength left in me ......so please.....just.....just leave me alone!!

Randhir (holding her shoulders and desperately trying to convince her): Chashmish.....please trust me.....I swear I....

Sanyukta winced in extreme pain when Randhir held her shoulders. Randhir's hold on her shoulder was quite soft but seeing her in extreme pain, he immediately removed his hands from her shoulder and kept it on her elbow.

Randhir (concerned): Chashmish what happened? Are you hurt somewhere?.....Show me....

Sanyukta (freeing herself from his hold and controlling her pain): Why does it bother you if I am hurt or not? You don't need to "act" in front of me Randhir. I don't need your fake concern......

Randhir (frustrated): Stop it.....just stop it......Just drop your façade Sanyukta......

Sanyukta: You drop your façade Randhir.....I know your real face. I don't need this fake concern of yours. I know my absence or presence doesn't matter to you......

Randhir (cupping her face and joining his forehead with her): Chashmish when will you understand that I Care for you.....I care for you more than....(realising what he was going to say....he stopped himself). Believe me Sanyukta.....I didn't block your number.

Sanyukta (distancing herself from him and controlling her tears): You know what Randhir.....for a moment, I am ready to believe that you did not block my number and just got to know today that my number was blocked from your phone.....but you know what does this fact tell me about you.....

Randhir (looking into her eyes): What?

Sanyukta: That in these past 7 months......you never even thought of calling me. You never even bothered to know if I am alive or dea....

Randhir (covering her mouth with his palm): Don't.....(not able to look in her eyes) Please don't say this.....

Sanyukta (removing his hand from her mouth angrily): Tell me if I am wrong Randhir.......

Randhir had an explanation as to why he never tried to even call Sanyukta but looking at Sanyukta's state.....he knew that whatever he would say to her would only look like a lie to Sanyukta. She wouldn't understand that he was so much guilty of his past actions....of his behaviour towards her during his last few days in Delhi that he didn't had the courage to pick his phone and call her. How would he express to her that not one day has gone by when he didn't miss her. So, he just looked down unable to meet her vulnerable eyes.

Sanyukta: Why are you looking down now? Look into my eyes and tell me Randhir......tell me that you did not bother about me even for a second. Tell me that I am nothing to you because believe me.....you might not have the courage to say these words on my face but I have accepted this reality and so its better if you go back to that ignorant mode and enjoy your life like you did in the past few months when we hadn't crossed each other's paths.

Randhir (holding her hands): Chashmish.....please just give me one chance....just one chance to redeem myself. I don't want to lose you.....please....

Sanyukta (looking in his eyes and freeing herself from his hold): Its too late Randhir.....Just go from here......(whispering to herself) I was lost long back and even I can't find myself anymore.....(wiping her tears and speaking to Randhir) Just go from here Randhir.....

Randhir (pleading): Chashmish but.....

Sanyukta (angrily): Randhir I said leave!!......please don't force me to call the security!

Randhir took two steps back and turned to go but then he stopped.

Randhir (turning to look at Sanyukta): I just have one....one last request.....

Sanyukta just looked away and so Randhir continued.

Randhir: I want you to attend the final show of our play at Prithvi theatre on Sunday. It's one of the most important performances of my life and I really need your support that day. Please Chashmish.....please come and watch me perform that day. I won't be able to perform without you by my side.

Sanyukta (coldly): You don't need me by your side or my support, Randhir. You are a confident actor. You have performed this play 4 times without me and anyways you are very experienced. You didn't need me back then......you don't need me now!

Randhir (pleading): I really need you there on Sunday, Chashmish! It has to be the best performance of my life and I won't be able to deliver it without you. Please be there Chashmish.....for all times sake!!

Sanyukta didn't respond to him and looked elsewhere!

Randhir (looking at her longingly and turning his back to go): I will wait for you on Sunday at Prithvi theatre!

Randhir was about to move out of her quarter when he heard her voice!

Sanyukta (coldly): Don't wait for me Randhir! I won't be there......!

Randhir (with his back towards her): I will still wait for you!

Sanyukta (with choked voice): Nothing hurts more than expectations Randhir and I am telling you this from my own experience! Believe me......I don't want you to get hurt! So please don't wait for me......I won't come on Sunday!

Saying this Sanyukta closed the door of her quarter while Randhir kept standing there for a few minutes taking in her words.

Randhir (to himself): I know you will come Chashmish!!

Randhir wiped his eyes and went back home. The next few days went by quickly with Randhir rehearsing day and night for his play. However, the very notion that this had to be the best performance he had to give and that the most famous producer and director of the country would be watching him perform somehow got to his head. With each and every rehearsal, some kind of pressure was building up in his head and there was no one there with whom he could share his feelings. There was no one to encourage him and motivate him. It was true that Randhir had done this play before also and that he was an experienced actor but sometimes mental pressure can strike down the best of us in the worst of times.

Sunday, Prithvi Theatre, 5 PM

Finally, the D-Day was here. The day all of them had been anxiously waiting for. Everything was ready to go. The stage was set and all the performers were ready. Randhir was getting ready and was getting his make-up and hair done. He was anxiously going through the script again and again. He didn't know what was wrong with him. He was not one of those who would go through the script at the last moment before the performance. Rather, he always kept his mind free from thoughts and relaxed before any of his performance but it felt like he was not in that zone today. Somewhere, in the back of his head, he was wondering if Sanyukta would come to support him or not. Her words were echoing in his ears again and again.....

Flashback

Sanyukta (coldly): Don't wait for me Randhir! I won't be there......!

Randhir (with his back towards her): I will still wait for you!

Sanyukta (with choked voice): Nothing hurts more than expectations Randhir and I am telling you this from my own experience! Believe me......I don't want you to get hurt! So please don't wait for me......I won't come on Sunday!

Flashback ends

Randhir shook his head and came out of his thoughts.

Randhir (looking at his watch and speaking to himself): I know you will come Chashmish.....I know you will be there for me.

It was already 5:55 PM. Their show would be starting at 6 PM. Everything was set but Randhir was having a nervous breakdown. He was going through the pages of the script again and again but he was feeling blank. He felt as if everything was erased from his mind. He frustratingly kept the script on the table and was breathing heavily closing his eyes when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He thought that Sanyukta finally came.

Randhir (turning around excitedly): Chashmish you ca.....

He couldn't complete his words as he saw that it wasn't Sanyukta. It was a girl wearing Burqa. Actually, it was Neha who was playing the female lead character of an acid attack victim. So, in most of her scenes, she had her face covered.

Randhir (in a disappointed voice): Oh.....Neha ......its you.....I am sorry I was .....

Neha: Expecting someone else?

Randhir felt something different hearing her voice but then he let it go.

Randhir: No.....I am just nervous. I feel like I don't remember anything at all.....I am blank!

Neha: Randhir, you are just thinking too much.....You never forget lines.....

Randhir: I am telling you Neha.....I think I am gonna screw up on the stage today! You know what.....give me a cue....let me see if I remember it or not!

Neha: Ok....(in Sanjana's character) Aditya please leave me alone. Just go away......We are not meant to be. Please move on in your life. I can't let you ruin your life. You deserve someone who is worth standing beside you......someone who is beautiful.....and I am not the one for you. Please don't wait for me.....Move on in your life.....Loving me is a mistake!

Randhir went speechless seeing her deliver her dialogues so perfectly and with the correct emotions in her voice. He clearly remembered that Neha used to fumble a lot in each and every dialogue and she had even messed up during live shows, when he came forward and improvised to complete the scene gracefully. However, seeing her delivering her dialogues so perfectly today, Randhir went speechless.

Neha (Waving her fingers): Randhir.....are you alright? Where are you lost?

Randhir (Coming out of trance): Huh.....yeah?

Neha: Its your line......

Randhir: Yeah....(in Aditya's character) Sanjana....I....I....

Randhir was blank. He couldn't recall his lines.....

Randhir: I told you Neha.....I am gonna screw up badly today.....I am totally blank....(holding his forehead) I don't know what am gonna do on stage....

Neha (Reciting his lines): Sanjana....I want "You" and only "You". Wasn't it you who told me that "The thing about mistakes is that Sometimes, even when you know something's a mistake, you gotta make it anyway." However, loving you was never a mistake and it never would be a mistake. I never expected to fall for you but "Sometimes you fall for someone you didn't expect, but that doesn't make it wrong. Doesn't everyone deserve to be happy?" Don't I deserve happiness?

Randhir was shocked to see that Neha even remembered his lines.

Randhir (picking up the script): Great, so I am going to be the only one to screw up today!

Neha came forward and took the script from his hands and kept it away.

Neha (holding his shoulder): Randhir.....you are not gonna screw up! You know all your lines and you are a Rockstar.....you are gonna knock it out of the park!

Randhir: Neha.... didn't you see how I am fumbling....I am just gonna...

Neha (interrupting him and keeping hand on his chest to calm him down): Randhir.....for a moment forget everything and take three deep breaths!

Randhir: Three Deep Breaths?

Neha: Yes.....for a moment just take everything out of your mind. Forget that you are here to perform.....forget that you will be on stage......forget that you are playing a character.....forget that there will be audience watching you.....forget that Rohit Malhotra will be there to see you perform and let go of yourself.....Think that you are performing not for anyone else but you are doing this for yourself. Think about the day you stepped into acting. Why its your passion? You have to believe in yourself because "this industry is your place.....where you have a very long way to go ......because you deserve it all Randhir!". Remember that dialogue...... "If you want something passionately, then the whole universe conspires to bring it to you....." . Everything will be fine Randhir! Just take three deep breaths and go on stage because trust me.....Sometimes even three deep breaths can change everything! All the best Randhir!

Saying this Neha went to take her position as the play was about to start while Randhir stood speechless at his place. Neha's words reminded Randhir so much of Sanyukta. He knew he had to perform his best but not only for himself but also for Chashmish.

Randhir (taking three deep breaths and relaxing): I will do this not only for myself but also for you Chashmish....I won't let you down. I know you will come to watch me perform today.

Randhir calmed himself down and suddenly he was filled with a fresh energy. All his nervousness converted into positive energy just with the notion that he couldn't and he wouldn't let Sanyukta down.

After a few minutes, Announcements were made and the audience was seated, lights were set and the play began. The first scene took place and both the protagonists were on stage. Randhir was performing the scene with full dedication and when Neha was delivering her dialogues.....Randhir took a chance to see the audience to look for Sanyukta. However, he couldn't find her anywhere. Soon he got his cue again and delivered his dialogues perfectly.

Randhir's heart sunk on realising that Sanyukta didn't came to support him. But he just gulped all his emotions at that moment and shifted his focus completely in the scene.... after all "The Show must go on".....

After that the play went smoothly. Everyone was appreciating each and every scene and the narration of the story. Randhir was just at the backstage preparing for the climax scene when his director came to him.

Director: Randhir.....everything is going perfectly. However, there is a slight change in the climax scene.

Randhir (shocked): Change in the scene.....right now?

Director: Yes! You know the last scene is that Sanjana's face is revealed and then you make her wear the ring and you guys hug and then a gunshot is heard and the lights will go off indicating their end together. However, Sanjana's face won't be unveiled.

Randhir (Shocked): What? That is the essence of the story.....that the guy loves her despite of her burnt face. The intensity of the story will not get highlighted if her face is not unveiled!

Director (to himself): You don't know what crisis we are going through right now!

Randhir: You said something?

Director: Umm No....you know what you go ahead with the original scene only.......

Randhir: Ok...fine...

Climax scene

After running away from all the goons finally Aditya and Sanjana reached a safe place.

Sanjana (emotionally): Aditya......why don't you understand.....we can never be together. I don't want to ruin your life.....Please just go away from me.

Aditya (Cupping her face over the burqa): You know I love you Sanjana......The first time I saw you....I fell in love with your eyes....

Sanjana (angrily): And that is all you have seen of me Aditya.....you have never seen my whole face. Once you will see my face.....you will feel disgusted even looking at me. I can bear everything Aditya but I won't be able to see the look of disgust and hatred in your eyes for me.....so please....let me live with your love.....

Aditya: You think so low of me that you think that I will hate you looking at your burnt face!

Sanjana (Frustrated): Aditya.....I hate my burnt face.....I hate myself then how can I expect you to love me after seeing my face.....please leave me!

Aditya pulled Sanjana close to him and unveiled her face. However, at that very moment the lights on the stage were dimmed in such a manner that the audience could clearly have a look on the stage but it became difficult for the actors performing on stage to see each other. However, Randhir could still see the girl in front of him. The whole face of the girl was covered in the makeup of burnt acid attack survivor. However, those eyes looked very familiar to Randhir and he was sure of one thing.....that girl on stage playing the character of Sanjana was not "Neha".

However, Randhir had no time to guess who was there on stage instead of Neha. He had to continue with the scene.

Aditya (cupping her burned face): You will always be the most beautiful girl I have ever seen.....you just need to see yourself from my eyes Sanjana! I have held your hand not to leave you midway.....(going on his knees and taking out the ring) but to be your companion for life......So, Sanjana.....will you marry me?

Sanjana (emotionally): Yes!!!!!

Generally, when a couple gets engaged, the guy makes the girl wear the ring on third finger of the left hand. However, since it was a play, so it was decided that the guy would put the ring on the third finger of "right hand" of the girl just to maintain the integrity and depth of traditions.

However, Randhir was so immersed in the scene that he did not realise that he took the left hand of the girl in front of him and made her wear the ring in the hand it is originally supposed to be.

Aditya (making Sanjana wear the ring): I love you, Sanjana!

Sanjana (emotionally): I love you too Aditya!!

After that a gunshot was heard and the lights were switched off indicating the end of their story and play.

Play Ends

The curtains came down and the audience gave a loud round of applause and standing ovation for them.

Backstage

As soon as the lights came on Backstage, Randhir looked around for the girl who was playing the character of Sanjana. He was sure that it was not Neha. However, he couldn't spot the girl anywhere. He was searching for her, when the producer of the play came backstage and called Randhir.

Producer: Randhir.....come here my boy......You were phenomenal today.....and look who is here to meet you....

Randhir came and saw Rohit Malhotra standing with the producer. He came forward and greeted him politely.

Randhir (shaking hands with Rohit Malhotra): Hello Sir.....I am Randhir Shekhawat......and am a huge fan of your work!

Rohit Malhotra: Well young man.....today I am your fan. You were phenomenal on the stage. You are truly gifted.....with loads of talent.

Randhir: Thank you so much for the kind words Sir.....

Rohit Malhotra (handing his card): Here's my card Randhir.....Drop by my office soon.... I might have something for you!

Randhir (excited and happy): Thank....Thank you so much Sir! I will drop by soon.....

Rohit Malhotra just patted his shoulder and went away with the producer. Randhir was so happy and he wanted to share his happiness with someone but that someone did not show up. Expectations really hurt and Randhir was hurt that Sanyukta didn't come to support him when he needed her the most. Randhir was about to go in his green room to change his clothes, when someone came and hugged him from back.

Girl: Randhir you were outstanding today......!

Randhir (freeing himself and turning towards the girl): Ayesha.....what are you doing here?

Ayesha: I came here to support you, Randhir!

Although Randhir knew Ayesha's feelings for him and he did not reciprocate them at all, yet, he was feeling very lonely because of Sanyukta's absence on such an important day. So, he actually felt good that at least Ayesha came there to support him.

Randhir (politely smiling): Thanks Ayesha....!!

Ayesha (putting her hands around his neck and speaking huskily): Pleasure is all mine Randhir.....!

Randhir removed her hands from around his neck and looked elsewhere awkwardly.

Ayesha (trying to change his mood): By the way.....only Thank you is not enough.....I want a treat from you today itself!

Randhir (smiling): Sure.....You go and wait for me outside. I will just change and come and then we can go for your treat.

Ayesha: Ok....I will wait outside!

After that Ayesha went outside and Randhir went to change his clothes. He changed his clothes and was moving towards his car when he saw Anjali.....Sanyukta's assistant.

Randhir: Hey Anjali....what are you doing here?

Anjali: Randhir sir....I am just waiting for the Assistant director to give all these accessories of Sanjana's character to her. Sanyukta Ma'am was in a hurry......so she left giving me these!

Randhir (Surprised and happy): Sanyukta was here? .....She came today to watch my performance....I mean our play?

Anjali: Not only to watch our play Sir, but to be a part of it....

Randhir (Confused): What?

Anjali: Actually, Neha ditched us at the last moment Sir! Her mother was not well and so she called up at 2 PM in the afternoon....just 4 hours before the final performance that she won't be able to come and perform today! Our Producer and Director were so angry at her. There was no way we could have performed the play without the female lead and no girl would have been able to memorize all the dialogues on such a short notice. In fact, the Producer had almost decided to cancel today's show but I stopped them and made a call to Sanyukta Ma'am. I explained her everything and asked her if she could perform in place of Neha because she is the writer of the play.....so she has each and every line memorised by heart. Initially, she was not agreeing but then our producer explained that it was a huge opportunity for all the actors.....especially "You"....and so she agreed to perform. That's why we were trying to change the climax scene last minute because we didn't want you to get shocked on stage but when you convinced the director about the importance of the scene, he used lighting and other technicalities to run the climax scene smoothly without any fuss. And see Sir.... everything went well....So, All's well that ends Well....right Sir?

Randhir tried to take in the loads of new information thrown upon him. He couldn't believe that not only Sanyukta came to support him but she actually came and saved the day. He didn't know if he should feel happy or grateful for having a friend like her or sad that she didn't wait to share his happiness with him. Randhir was lost in his thoughts when Anjali's words brought him out of trance.

Anjali: You were great on stage today Sir....!

Randhir (smiling): Thank you so much Anjali!!

Soon the AD came and Anjali handed over the props to him and left after bidding goodbye to Randhir.

Randhir moved towards his car lost in his thoughts. He wanted to run and give a tight hug to Sanyukta. He wanted to thank her and tell her how grateful he was to have her in his life. As he reached near the car, he saw Ayesha waiting for him. He was in a dilemma. He wanted to go and meet Sanyukta but at the same time he didn't want to disappoint Ayesha as he had promised her a treat today and she did come to support him today. This was the least he could do for her. He decided that he would meet Sanyukta tomorrow.

Randhir (sitting in the car): Come on Ayesha....let's go!

Ayesha (sitting in the car): Yes Randhir.....Let's go to "Four Seasons".

Randhir (driving): "Four Seasons"!! .....Ayesha that's around an hour away from my house and I have just performed a play and not bagged a film that you want me to give you treat in a 7 star hotel!

Ayesha (nagging): Randhir...don't be a spoil sport now....you promised me a treat and I have already booked a table for us!

Randhir (sighing): Fine!

Four Seasons, 8:30 PM

Randhir and Ayesha entered and asked the manager for their table. The manager called a waiter who took them to a beautifully decorated table with candles and rose petals.

Randhir was about to ask about these arrangements to Ayesha when the manager came there.

Manager: I am sorry Sir....actually, this table is reserved for someone else! You both please come with me.

The manager took them to another table which was just behind that decorated table. Randhir and Ayesha settled there and started looking through the menu.

Ayesha: Such a romantic gesture na.....it seems someone is gonna get proposed on that table today!

Randhir (looking in the menu): Yeah.....so what would you like to have?

Ayesha: Lets order a few drinks first!

Randhir: Sure!

They ordered wine and few snacks. The waiter came with a bottle of wine and started pouring the wine for them in their glasses. However, someone was in a hurry and pushed the waiter due to which a little wine got spilled on Randhir's shirt.

Ayesha (angrily): Don't you have eyes.....

Randhir (trying to calm her down): Ayesha please.....calm down. It was not his fault.

Waiter: I am really sorry Sir!

Randhir: Its Ok....can you please tell me way to the washroom?

The waiter told him the way to the washroom and Randhir went to clean his shirt.

Randhir was washing the stain of wine on his shirt when he heard some loud voices coming from just outside the washroom....from the dimly lit corridor.

Voices from corridor

Man: How dare you wear a ring in this finger.....you very well knew that I was going to propose to you today and you wore a ring on this very finger.....(trying to take the ring out) this ring is bloody stuck in your finger....

Girl (wincing in pain): Ouch! Its hurting.....please don't...don't force it out (crying) I have tried to get it out but its not getting out.....

Man: I feel like cutting your finger off.....just go and try to get it out with the help of soap.

Randhir felt disgusted at such a man who was hurting a girl to such an extent and then had the audacity to say that he was here to propose her. Randhir came out of the washroom and found the corridor empty. He sighed and thought that the couple might have left the place. He went back to his table and sat down. He noticed that a man was sitting on the decorated table with his back towards them.

Randhir and Ayesha began talking and enjoying their drinks. Randhir was just about to pour some more wine for himself when he saw a girl coming towards the decorated table and when he clearly saw the girl.....he couldn't believe his eyes. It was Sanyukta wearing a beautiful black dress. Her hair was curled and it looked like she dressed up especially for someone. However, looking at her face, he felt as if she had cried badly. There were no tears on her face yet her red nose and tired eyes gave away that she had been crying.

While Randhir was lost looking at Sanyukta, Ayesha was continuously talking about something to Randhir but everything went over Randhir's head because his whole focus was on Sanyukta.

Randhir stood up and was about to move towards Sanyukta when he saw her sitting on the decorated table where a guy was sitting already waiting for her. Randhir looked at the situation and somehow, he knew what was going to happen here but his heart was not ready to accept the reality. He tried convincing himself that Sanyukta was here only for dinner. He could hear their conversation clearly as their table was hardly a feet away from his table.

Sid (angrily holding her hand): Did you get the ring off from your finger?

Sanyukta (pleading): I tried a lot Sid but I couldn't get it out....!

Sid: Just let it be.....my friends will be here in a few minutes....so please don't embarrass me anymore!
Soon some people joined them and Sid took Sanyukta's hand and stood up. Then he went on his knees.

Randhir couldn't believe his eyes. Listening to their conversation Randhir realised that the couple he heard talking in the corridor was none other than Siddharth and Sanyukta and at the same time he realised that the ring stuck on Sanyukta's finger was actually put on by him during the play and now it was stuck on her finger.

As far as Randhir knew Sanyukta.....she would never say yes to such a toxic man who can hurt her to this extent. Randhir looked towards them but what he saw next shattered his heart....

Sid (sitting on his knees and holding the ring): Will you marry me Sanyukta?

Sanyukta (gulping and closing her eyes and then faking a smile): Yes!!

Sid made her wear the ring in her right hand and then got up and hugged her tightly. Few of his friends also came and congratulated him while Randhir kept standing on his spot looking at them. He couldn't believe that Sanyukta said "Yes"!

Randhir (in trance and thinking about Sanyukta): Yes?.....Yes?

He was thinking how could Sanyukta say "Yes"?

Suddenly Randhir was brought out of his trance when Ayesha hugged him tightly.

Ayesha (hugging him happily): Thank you so much for saying "Yes" Randhir......Thank you for agreeing to become my boyfriend......believe me I will be the best girlfriend in this world.....I love you so much Randhir!

Randhir got another shock hearing Ayesha's words. When Randhir was totally lost in seeing Sanyukta getting proposed, Ayesha had actually proposed Randhir to be her boyfriend and Randhir said "yes" out loud.....when he was actually thinking upon Sanyukta's response to the proposal. Randhir was about to distance himself from Ayesha and clear the misunderstanding when he saw Sid and Sanyukta moving to the centre stage and dancing closely. Randhir didn't know what came upon his mind that he did something which he hadn't even imagined in his wildest dreams.

Randhir (hugging Ayesha back and looking towards Sid and Sanyukta): I am also very happy Ayesha.....

Sanyukta and Sid were dancing very closely and their friends were hooting for them.... celebrating them. Randhir gulped and tried to control his emotions. He felt suffocated looking at Sanyukta in Siddharth's arms. He felt like he couldn't breathe anymore.

Randhir (distancing himself from Ayesha): Ayesha let's go..... I don't feel like eating anymore!

Ayesha: Randhir let's celebrate tonight.....please!

Randhir (frustrated): I said I don't feel like eating right.....!

Ayesha got scared looking at Randhir's anger.

Ayesha (caressing his cheek): Ok baby....we will celebrate some other day.

After that Randhir and Ayesha left the hotel. Randhir first dropped Ayesha at her house and then drove towards his house. The whole way.....that very scene of Sid proposing to Sanyukta kept coming in front of his eyes. He held the steering tight and drove the car at a very high speed. He somehow reached his house and unlocked the door when he heard loud shout of "surprise".

Randhir (surprised): Mom! ....Dad! ....what are you guys doing at home? You both had important meetings, right?

Randhir's mom: We cut those meetings short beta. We are sorry we couldn't be there to support you at the theatre tonight, so we thought that the least we could do was to have dinner with you.....See I made all your favourite dishes.

Randhir was in no mood of eating anything but looking at his mom's face and the dishes she prepared with so much love for him.....he didn't had the heart to break his mom's heart. He had already disappointed Ayesha.....now he couldn't hurt his parents too.

Randhir (trying to smile): Thank you so much Mom....I will just freshen up and join you guys!

Randhir's mom: Ok Beta....

Randhir's dad: Come soon Rockstar.... I am very hungry!

Randhir (going in his room): Yeah dad....

Randhir went to his room. He kept his wallet and keys on the table and went to the washroom. He splashed water on his face to calm himself down. He washed his hands and changed his clothes and went out to the dining area to have dinner with his parents.

Randhir's mom served all of Randhir's favourite dishes to him and his dad and then she settled down with her plate. They started eating and discussing their day. However, it was only his parents who were talking and Randhir was quietly eating his dinner.

Randhir's dad: Rockstar....Is everything alright?

Randhir (smiling slightly): Yeah dad....everything's fine....!

Randhir's dad: You are unusually quiet today....

Randhir: Nothing dad.....I am just tired....!

Randhir's dad: Randhir.....believe me....your hard work will take you to great heights one day....! In fact, today was no less than a milestone for you! We should celebrate each milestone of our lives....(raising his glass of water).....To my Rockstar Randhir and his achievements.....

Randhir's mom: To my dearest Ron!

All three of them cheered their glasses of water together. Randhir was holding his glass of water and thinking something when he heard his mom talking.

Randhir's mom: Randhir you know what happened today? Riddhima called and told me that "Shivam" proposed to her today!

Hearing about another marriage proposal, the scene of Sanyukta saying "yes" to Siddharth for marriage, started flashing in front of Randhir's eyes.....

Randhir's dad: What's the big deal in that Avantika? Shivam is already her fiancé and they are getting married next month anyways......theirs is an arranged marriage na....then why this proposal fiasco.....?

Randhir's mom: What fiasco Harsh? I think that its so beautiful that for Riddhima.....her fiancé went on knees to propose her.....to make her feel special. You are right....they are anyways getting married but he did this for her happiness and aren't Proposals beautiful.....He decorated the whole place with roses and candles. Then he went on his knees and asked for her hand.....It was absolutely beautiful.

Hearing His mom describe his cousin's marriage proposal only angered Randhir more. The flashes of Siddharth and Sanyukta's proposal started haunting him. His grip on his glass of water became tighter.

Randhir's dad (jokingly): So, did she say "NO"?

Randhir's mom: Harsh! Of course, she said "Yes"!!

When he heard "Yes" again.....he felt as if he had gone through the whole scenario again and this time his patience went away and all his anger came out when the glass of water broke in his hand because of his tight hold.

Randhir's mom (worried): Oh my God Ron....! How did this glass break?....your hand is bleeding beta!....You are hurt so badly!

Randhir (taking his hand away from his mom and standing up shouting): I am not hurt Mom!

Randhir's parents stood up seeing his behaviour....

Randhir's mom (Cupping his face): Ron.... What's wrong beta? Give me your hand.....see the glass piece has pierced your hand....It must be paining you like hell! (Taking his hand and taking out the big glass chunk piercing his hand) Show me your hand!!

Randhir (snatching his hand away from his mom and speaking angrily): I said that I am not hurt Mom....! Its just a small cut and I am not a girl to cry on such small things!

Randhir's mom (Strictly): Enough of your childishness Randhir.....and what is this attitude of yours that you don't feel pain. I have not raised you with the stereotype of being a Macho man. Pain is not Gender centric Randhir. You are a human being.... Randhir. You have feelings and you do feel pain and believe me it takes much more strength to accept that you are in pain than denying the existence of pain at all. Let it be.....you have to get it stitched. I will call Dr. Neena....her clinic might still be open.

After that his parents took him to the clinic and got his wound stitched and dressed properly. They came back home and Randhir straight away went to his room, while his parents were wondering about his weird and uncanny behaviour. Soon they also went to their room.

In the middle of the night, Randhir's mom woke up to get some water. She was going back to her room when she thought of checking up on Randhir. She very quietly opened the door of his room to not disturb his sleep. However, when she entered his room....she saw him sitting by the window looking out lost in his thoughts. She cleared her throat and Randhir turned towards his door and saw his mom standing there.

Randhir: Mom...what are you doing here?

Randhir's mom: I just came to check on you if you are getting sleep properly or not.....

Randhir (turning his face away): I was just not feeling sleepy mom!

Randhir's mom came and sat on his bed beside him and caressed his hair. Suddenly Randhir kept his head on his mom's lap and closed his eyes.

Randhir's mom (caressing his head): (referring to his wound) Is it paining beta?

Randhir (thinking about Sanyukta and the whole proposal scenario and her saying "yes" and finally admitting his feelings): It hurts Maa.....It hurts a lot!!

My POV

"Will You Marry Me?......the question that most girls have dreams about. What can be more beautiful than a person asking a question that leads to one of the most beautiful, intimate and deepest relationship between two people. When this question is responded to with a "Yes"......it just brings a sense of completeness and oneness for the two people who decide to spend their life together. A marriage proposal......a place filled with flowers and candles.....a guy going on his knees and asking the girl to be his partner for life and a girl saying "yes" to him......What can be more beautiful than this? However, sometimes the most beautiful things can cause the deepest of wounds. Just like Roses.....which are considered to be the most beautiful flowers....yet their stem is filled with thorns. You never know when you may get hurt in the quest of reaching the beautiful Rose. Sometimes, when two people get together, it may hurt someone.....it might just not be the two getting together.

It indeed was a proposal that hurt!

Siddharth may have proposed to Sanyukta and made her wear the ring but somehow it was Randhir who put the ring in her actual engagement finger during the play. The ring put on by Randhir on Sanyukta's left hand finger got stuck so tightly that despite of all her efforts, she couldn't take it out. It seems destiny was playing a peek-a-boo game with Randhir and Sanyukta. Randhir also accepted to be Ayesha's boyfriend but not out of feelings for her but for his unsaid and unrealised feelings for someone else.

When someone gets hurt, they don't really show it to the world as to what intensity they are hurt. For a person like Randhir, the very notion of accepting that he was "hurt" was huge for him. He himself knew the reason for his hurt but when accepting that he was "hurt" was so difficult for him, then realising and accepting the real reason behind his pain is another huge challenge for him. What is written next in Sanyukta and Randhir's destiny? What is the reality of Sanyukta's relationship? Will Randhir realise his real feelings or will he hurt other people like Ayesha in this process? To know the answers to all these questions, you guys need to read the next part!

This part is of around 10,000 words. I know I have updated after a really very loooooong time but I have worked really very hard on this part and I know most of you must have been disappointed reading it but believe me....its a very important part in terms of the plot. This year has been a kind of roller coaster ride.....or more like me driving a car without seat belt. I went through a very tough phase in the past few months. Every day of my life was filled with fear. Those were testing times but as you know tough people last and at some point, testing times end and a new morning takes place after the night. I am not really tough but yeah God gave me the strength to surpass these difficult days. I could not think of anything else in those days.

Many of you kept messaging me to update this story. Now that things have got better.....I thought to update this story. I know many of you might have forgotten about it and some may not even be interested in reading it further. That's alright.....!! I am thankful to all you guys for appreciating my hard work and special thanks to those who still want me to write more. Thank you for all your messages, comments and Love. I hope you guys will continue reading this story. Its always a pleasure writing for you guys and I love reading your comments which help me feel very motivated. So, a very big thank you to all my commenters and silent readers for being patient and for taking out the time to read this story. I am glad that you find this story worth your precious time and I hope you will continue reading it.

All your comments motivate me to write. Please try and comment more. Please vote, comment and continue reading my story. Hope this update is worth your time and patience. Have a great day and stay safe guys!!