Hi All.. Hope all are safe and staying at home. Sorry for missing for so long.So a long due update is here. 

Author's Note: There are few graphic depictions of violence. Readers kindly read at your own discretion. 

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If it was n't for Nisha, the whole family would have slept through the day, only to wake up in afternoon perhaps.Nisha had opened her eyes early morning to see her Mumma Papa cuddled up on one side of bed and she occupying a pretty major portion of bed alone. She tried not to disturb them and decided to surprise Naina by completing all her morning chores, herself.She was a big girl now. She indeed ended up surprising Naina.

Naina stretched in bed, almost like a lazy cat. Her hands carded in familiar silky strands which were messy from all rolling and stirring. The soft duvet made her want to spend the whole day in bed. The jet lag weariness had not completely dissipated and the blanket was equally comforting. She pulled the blanket and Sameer shifted towards her more, tucking his face on her clavicle. They had almost fallen into a sweet morning slumber, almost---

"Mumma"

Naina lifted the blanket and pushed a whining Sameer away.Scanning for the empty side of bed, she scampered down the bed and rushed to the washroom. The sight made her heart fill with warmth yet she tried to look stern. Nisha had fumbled with tap settings to wash her hands and had ended up opening the shower.Now she stood all drenched under the spray of fine flowing water . Naina chuckled remembering how she had wished to be drenched in rain of Paris, and here her daughter was drenched in Shower of Paris.

Naina immediately grabbed a towel from shower handle and wiped Nisha dry. Naina returned to bed carrying Nisha at her hip, who was wrapped in bundle of towels. A smile spread across her lips seeing a pair of shorts , tee and a jacket laid out on bed, belonging to Nisha. She looked at Sameer, who was now almost awake,scrolling on phone. Though it was all domestic and almost routine now, still Naina could not help but admire how Sameer had smoothly gotten into the role of a father.

"Toh! Princess Nisha! Subah subah yeh kya tha?" Sameer asked, trying to put up a stern face, but melting at the way Nisha pouted. "Surprise" She squealed, her bunny teeth on display. Sameer let a little laugh ,zipped her jacket and pulled her into a hug. "Papa! I am a big girl now." Nisha declared as she took the hair brush from Sameer to comb her wet hair.Sameer watched in amusement as Nisha struggled to fix the bangs that did not get pulled into the ponytail even after many trials. Nisha pouted and looked at Sameer. Getting the cue, Sameer searched for clips in Naina's handbag and pulled out one. Quickly fixing her bangs, he kissed her on wet hair and held her close to him. She is not going to be a big girl any day. He will make sure that she is always his little princess, the angel baby Naina had single handedly raised and he proclaimed his guardianship over. ". Meri Nisha hamesha little princess rahegi meri." Sameer said loud and Nisha whined as her Papa's antics messed up hair a little.

" Itna laad pyar se bigad jaayegi kisi din." Naina amusedly said as they exited their suite. Nisha had waged a mini world war against Naina in taking a medicine ,doctor had prescribed. The bitter medicine was almost a nightmare for Nisha and Sameer had asked Naina to give the dosage sometime later. Sameer was so soft on Nisha..that was the only complain Naina had these days. It was not that Naina didn't admire Sameer being extra soft for Nisha but it sometimes led her to be the strict parent to keep the balance. Finishing a tub of ice cream when it's almost freezing that to sneakily at midnight is something Naina doesn't approve. On top of that Sameer covering up that they were only for the water but also thought a scoop or two of ice cream would not hurt was what flared Naina. Nisha bundled up in bed with running nose was what she didn't want.

" Nahin Rohan. Main khud jaa rahi.Tum raho apne India mein.Seriously! I hate you." The agitated voice coming from end of hallway caught Sameer's attention. He felt he had heard it before but could not pin point it. Before he racked his brain enough, he saw the source of voice himself.

"Amrita!"

Naina looked at Sameer and found a similar recognizing twinkle in the other lady's eyes. "Naina! Amrita.Rohan ki wife. Amrita! Naina." Sameer introduced soon and saw the two ladies hug each other quite fondly. "Aur mein Nisha" Nisha quipped in seeing her Mumma and Papa not making any efforts to introduce her as well to the seemingly new lady who is all smiley now.

"To tum ho Nisha! My pretty doll"

Amrita cooed as she lifted Nisha and kissed her nose.Nisha giggled and planted a quick peck on Amrita's cheeks. Sameer was waiting, though he would never accept the fact, for Rohan to show up. As the time ticked and he felt they would be late for the tour office , he asked in haste. "Amrita! Rohan kahan hai?". Amrita's face fell , a hurt expression dawning in eyes. "Papaji ka call tha India se ..toh India mein hai."

"Papaji! Oh! But aise tumhein akele chod ke? Dimag hai bhi uska ya nahin." Sameer was suddenly all angry but was more disappointed with Rohan's behaviour. Naina knew it was more of anger for his step father Vivek Somani, and disappointment with Rohan that had riled up Sameer. But it was n't time to hold grudges and curse at people who were absent in the moment. It was time to look after Amrita and make her feel comfortable in their company.The least they can do before Rohan joins her.

                                                                                       ~~**~~

As they waited now at the platform for the train to arrive, Sameer saw Nisha and Amrita having some conversation, Amrita clearly sulking. Sameer knew Naina was good at giving people prep talks. Her easy flowing conversational skill put even strangers at ease. Sameer remembered how their first small talks had given rise to friendly companionship before the omnious bet ended it all. He still regretted that day. He had excused himself with the pretext of buying orange juice for Nisha while Nisha in his arms was demanding chocolate ice cream.

"Toh kab aa raha Rohan?" Sameer asked Naina as they finally found their seats in the metro. "Shayad Amrita ko wapas London akela jana pade." Naina sighed, as she rested her head on Sameer's shoulders. Amrita was busy with Nisha, giggling with her, cooing at her as Nisha was busy narrating all her funny anecdotes of school with Rishav.

"Sameer! Ghar mein sab thik hai na? Aisa kya urgency hui ki Rohan ko trip chodke, Amrita ko chodke India jana pada? Aur yeh bhi pata nahin ki kab wapas kab aaye jab ki Amrita ko bataye the ki 3-4 din ki baat hai." Naina asked, herself also reasoning possible problems back at home.

" Fikr toh mujhe bhi ho rahi thi Naina.Lekin ab nahin hai."

Naina looked up at Sameer quizingly. Sameer read the 'why' in Naina's eyes. " Mummy thik hai ekdum. Nanaji bhi. Namrata se baat hui meri. Baaki wo Mr. Timetable to hai hi apna baap ka chamcha. Pada hoga kisi routine kaam mein." Naina suppressed a laugh listening to Sameer's endearment for Rohan. She decided to doze off a little before they arrive at the station and go for the city and museum tour for all day and evening. Sameer wrapped around his arms across Naina, as he felt slight puffs of her breath calming his entire being.

The train glided into a platform and the announcement in the coach made Sameer realise that the next stop was theirs. He looked at Naina, clinging to him, an apparent pout against his skin. He stroked her back and planted a kiss. Naina's eyebrows furrowed and soon she was up from the slumber. She squinted her eyes as her eyes took time to adjust to the bright lights of coach. "Agla station hai." Naina nodded and went to wake up Nisha who had fallen asleep on Amrita's lap.

" Amrita! Tum humare saath aa jao. Akele ghumne mein kya mazaa bhala." Naina asked as she saw Amrita going for a different line. "Aap pareshan mat ho Didi. Main thik hun." Amrita replied, trying not to be an added burden. "Chachi! Hum Disneyland jaane ka plan banaye the na. Yeh cheating hai.Papa ! Chachi se bolo na." Nisha whined, tugging at Sameer's hands. Sameer saw how children get along with strangers even real quick unlike elders who hold grudges. While he had years of resentment against Rohan , his child didn't take a whole day even to get along with Rohan's wife. "Amrita!Tum chal rahi ho. Mujhe excuses sun ne ki adaat nahin hai." Naina quipped and gestured Sameer to redeem pre booked tickets for all.

It was all fun when Nisha decided to go for roller coasters and Naina thought she could just faint seeing the height from the ground. It was Amrita who pulled Naina along and in less than an hour, Naina was clutching to Sameer for her dear life and faking annoyance at how he was enjoying the scared cat Naina was. While Nisha was strapped along with Amrita, shouting along her to the best ability of her tiny lungs. After visiting the famous sites like Notre Dame,Arc De Triomphe,Luxomberg Gardens ,Pantheon and several other artistic and historical places of significance ;they decided to take a break for lunch. Nisha had been grumbling about juices that tasted more bitter and bland than what she used to have in India. The real difficulty came when they entered the restaurant though.

While Paris had been a city of breads, it was difficult spotting an Indian restaurant. Naina suggested to go for the available ones since Nisha was hungry and cranky thereof. The restaurant was pretty decent with Indian meals. Not many options seemed to be available. Naina knew they had to settle for the least since they cannot afford to have non –veg items enlisted and illustrated beautifully on the menu card.

"Mumma!Mujhe yeh khana hai.Kitna tasty dikh raha." Nisha literally drooled over an illustration of salmon steak and some chicken thrown in a bowl of lettuce and stir fried veggies. "Nahin Nisha.Yeh nahin. Hum kuch aur khaate hein. Yeh pizza dekho.'' Naina tried but Nisha didn't budge. "Nahin.Mujhe yehi khana hai. Mumma!Please,Please." Sameer saw Naina failing and sighing in defeat. Nisha was stubborn, which Naina lamented that she had got from her late father.

"Nisha!" Sameer called and Nisha hopped from her seat, running around the large table, jumped on Sameer. "Papa ! Please. Yehi khana hai mujhe." With those puppy eyes and pout, Sameer was lost. With the ding of bell, the waiter appeared, quickly took the orders and left. "Taiji hoti toh na jagah dekhti na log, laga deti do teen ek saath." Naina said, seeing Nisha happily munching on some chicken as starter also. " Humko toh chaat, panipuri aur wo Ahmedabad wali Pizza ke upar koi option hi nahin mila.Bekar mein veg non-veg se bache ko kyun pareshan karna.Usse jine dete hein Naina." Sameer asserted as he took a chunk of chicken and fed Nisha. "Papa! Aap bhi khao na. Mein khila deti hun. Aaaaaa." Nisha asked opening her mouth wide. "Nahin beta. Papa ka pet mein na dard hai. Chicken se dard aur badh jaayega.Phir Mumma Papa ko chod ghumne chalijaayegi, aur Papa akele.." Nisha put her hand on his mouth. " Nahin.Aap saath chaloge Mumma aur mere saath. Mein hi kha leti hun sara chicken. Thik hai?" Nisha asked Sameer, feeling pity that her father can't eat the delicious food she was having. Sameer nodded and Naina grinned and chuckled, "Oscar milna chahiye for best acting Mr. Sameer Maheshwari."

Sameer thought hard why in this world Naina wanted to see the Art Musuems. Though he knew it might be something that could come to her help her in writing, but he didn't think he was in right state to enjoy watching life size statues and paintings with an audio guided recorder in hand about each painting. Naina had been quite excited about visiting the museums and she even had made notes on some famous paintings to look out for. Sameer's only job was to click pictures and capture them brilliantly. Amrita joined them in there after she came back from some quick outing with one of her long lost friends who were also on vacation and they unexpectedly met.

"Bhaiya! Aap Nisha ko pakdiye, mein Didi ke saath Paintings ki photos leti hun." Amrita suggested and Sameer didn't mind. Halls after halls they moved in neat lines, Nisha saying every picture as paintings of churches, asking meanings of some paintings which looked abstract enough for her tiny brain to understand. There was a certain picture of family having dinner and Nisha exclaimed, "Papa!Yeh to humare jaisa hai na.Mumma, Papa aur Nisha.Humara painting kyun nahin hai yahan?" Sameer tried hard to supress his laugh and mumbled that the photographer couldnot travel to India to take picture of their family dinner. They finally came across the world famous painting of Monalisa. Nisha squealed with utter happiness that she had seen the painting in Art room of her school. "Mumma! Aisa humari school mein hai na. Art Miss yahan bhi wohi wala drawing kiye hein?"

"Art Miss nahin. Leonardo Da Vinci ne. '' Naina made Nisha read the plaque. "Kitna bada naam hai. Unko yaad rakhna mushkil hoti hogi na Mumma?" Nisha asked and Naina stifled a laugh. "Kitna khyal hai sabki meri bachi ko." Naina said and cutely kissed Nisha's cheeks. Nisha kissed back before they moved to another room of exhibitions.

It was almost evening when they finished the tour. Nisha had been little fussy and cranky. Her tooth was wobbly and ready to shed. It was discomforting. She had clung to Naina, refusing to be with Sameer or Amrita for a while. Sameer had look worried but Naina had calmed him down that it was natural. Amrita had volunteered to engage Nisha in her stories until Nisha dozes off.

Sameer heaved a sigh of relief as he carried Nisha to their suite. The butler followed with a warm water bottle and Nisha had silently sipped it before dozing off again. It was not past more than an hour when a notification beeped on Sameer's phone.

"Naina! Lock Bridge trip ke liye Cab ka notification aaya hai." Sameer informed Naina, who sat by the bed side, slowly running her fingers in Nisha's soft locks. "Bahut mushkil se soyi hai. Uthegi toh royegi. Cancel kar dein?" Naina asked back.

"Tumhara mann hai jaane ka?" Sameer asked firmly. Naina nodded, for it had been on top of her lists to visit the bridge over Siene River. But as always she was torn between her wishes and responsibilities for Nisha. However, she was ready to forego the wish if it meant staying with Nisha.

Knock. Knock.

"Amrita!" Sameer looked surprised a bit seeing Amrita at the door. "Didi!" Amrita exclaimed before rushing inside to Naina. "Amrita! Kya baat hai? Rohan ka call aaya?" Naina asked, all excited to hear the details. Amrita's face fell. "Nahin Didi. Busy hoga. Mein to Nisha ko lene aayi thi. Akele acha na lag raha tha." Amrita sighed. " Samajh rahi. Nisha ko lene mein koi problem nahin, bas uth jaayegi toh sambhal paogi? Dekhi na aaj bus mein?" Naina asked with a cocked eyebrow. "Aapko shayad yaad nahin ki meri stories ki wajah se so gayi thi. Kyun Bhaiya?" Amrita asked and Sameer fondly agreed.

"Thik hai le jao. Garam paani pilate rehna. No chips, chocolate or ice cream.'' Naina detailed out , as Amrita picked up Nisha from bed, like she was the most delicate flower of world. "Amrita! Wo.. humein Lock Bridge jaana hai. Tum agar Nisha ko thoda sambhal leti toh.. hum pakka 10 baje se pehle aa jayenge." Sameer said with apprehension.

"Bhaiya! Aap pehle kyun nahin bataye? Nisha ki fikr bilkul mat kijiye. Ab wo apni Chachi ke saath hai. Enjoy.'' Amrita said as she left with Nisha, slowly patting her back.

                                                                                       ~~*~~

Nisha was up after sometime and refused to sleep more. Amrita busied her in random talks and suddenly Nisha asked "Chachi! Aap Almora kab aaoge?"

Amrita startled for a while. She knew about the hatred of her father-in-law Mr.Vivek Somani for Sameer. He even never liked the idea of inviting Sameer to company meetings or parties. Whatever she has known from Rohan is that, the tension in air; around Vivek and Sameer becomes thick enough; to be cut by a knife.She didn't know if she would be allowed to visit Sameer and his family even. However, Nisha waited for a reply. "Jab tumhari Dadi ki ghar aayenge, tab Almora aa jaungi meri Nisha se milne."

"Dadi Papa pe gussa karti hai, Papa na bahut sad the. Chachaji bhi sad hote hein kya Dadi daatne se?" Nisha asked , feeling pity for her father. She still remembered how her Papa wanted to eat aloo paratha made by his Mumma but perhaps never got them because of fights. Amrita didn't know what to reply. She averted the question and asked "Nisha! Movie dekhein? Lion King?"

"Wo to mera favourite hai. Chachi! Usmein Simba aur Nala jaise best friends hein , mein aur Rishav waise hi hein.'' Amrita quickly pulled out her tablet and soon Nisha was giggling as she glued her eyes to the tablet screen. Amrita too got involved until she heard Nisha asking "Chachi! Chachaji aise Scar jaise bad man hote hein kya?"

"Kuch bad men hote hein like Scar , bahut sare good men bhi hote hein." Amrita said, as she brushed the hair falling over Nisha's eyes. Nisha's face brightened. "Mere Chachaji good man?" Amrita was not expecting the question. It was not that Rohan was someone who was an evil schemer, but he was almost a puppet in hands of his father. His obedience took precedence over his morality many times and that scared Amrita most of times. With Nisha's question, her inside churned with unease.

She nodded a 'yes' and enthusiastically Nisha went back to watching the movie. Amrita combed through Nisha's hair, silently muttering "Rohan!Please kuch galat mat karna."

                                                                                    ~~*~~

"Naina! Iss taale pe apna naam likhein?"

"Tumhein likhna hai?" Naina asked she looked over the beautiful Siene river. It was absolute joy looking at the City of Love coloured in various hues and emanating a literal carnival vibe. She imagined how bad or worse it would be for the ones who had their heart breaks here?

"Naina! Chalo" She let her to be guided by Sameer until they reached a spot on the bridge. Naina looked at the small padlock designed in shape of heart and 'NnS' engraved on it. She looked at Sameer quizzically, for what the extra N meant. "Nisha. Lock of love mein usse hona hi chahiye na?" Sameer asked and Naina grinned wide. Few years from then on, when Nisha is all grown up , she would tell her about this night and this beautiful gesture by her father along with some more. It all felt like living in a happy bubble. Too sweet to last long, yet they would live in it for now.

Naina locked the padlock and Sameer threw the tiny key in the silent stream of River Siene.That was the tradition and it was believed that their love was now locked and protected. After the Bridge adventure, they headed for the Eiffel Tower. A scheduled dinner waited for them as the schedule from hotel itinerary mentioned.

They reach at the top of the Eiffel tower with the yellow lights almost blinding Naina. It was windy up that high also bit chill as the winter was starting to settle in. Naina shivered a little as she stared into the city from that high.

Sameer shuffled closer and Naina was thankful for the extra warmth.They both stayed silent, enjoying the panoramic beauty of city before them, each other's presence being enough.

As they winded up the dinner, because they had ate a full meal in late afternoon, Sameer chose to focus on drinks. Naina didn't want to go for harder ones but ended up emptying two glasses. It was bitter to mouth yet strangely relaxing for her mind. It helped her wind up a bit.

"It's all great. I had..fun" Naina breathes out as they sat huddled at a spot, waiting for the cab to arrive. Naina allows her head to rest on Sameer's shoulder. " Itna sab dekhne ke baad bhi, bahut kuch baaki reh gaya hai. Paris ki baarish baaki reh gaya, aur wo museum bhi.." Naina muttered out names. "Sameer! Jagah bhi miss kiye aur Nisha ko bhi." She added, letting her thoughts roll loud on her tongue.

Sameer shifted closer and wrapped his arms around her waist, before placing a kiss on her head. "We are always going to miss something, no matter kitna bhi koshish kar lein. Let's just live in the moment."

Naina blurts out several I Love You before finally agreeing; "Let's live in the moment"

By the time Sameer and Naina returned, Nisha had finished her movie, her chats and was asleep on Amrita's lap. "So gayi?" Sameer asked, trying to look presentable enough after the small gateway adventure with Naina. " Ji Bhaiya! Aap jayiye.Didi akeli hogi. Nisha ko yahan rehne dijiye aaj." Amrita completed in one breath, trying to make least noise, fearing Nisha would be up. "Raat mein uthke pareshan ki toh le aana." Sameer said, looking over Amrita's shoulder, his baby girl sleeping, tightly hugging the pillow now. A fond smile appeared on his face. "She is cute." Amrita quipped and Sameer admitted. With a quick exchange of good nights, Sameer was back in their room.

They lied, few hours and several rounds later, feeling completely and thoroughly sated. Beside Sameer, Naina was sleeping soundly, her silken hair sprawled all against the soft white pillow, forming a halo. She breathed slowly, an arm curved around his waist.Warm breathe mixed with a hint of chamomile and citrus passed through parted lips, warming up their unclothed skin.Sameer looked at the ceiling, rewinding the fun times they had through this whole trip. For a moment they had left that workaholic life and were blissfully enjoying each other's company. It also dawned over him that they have to return back to that life soon.

Sameer looked at the woman sleeping beside him in utter contentment. As if she sensed his distress, she shifted closer, unconsciously demanding to have his full attention and all of his warmth to engulf only her.Sameer closed his eyes and soon drowsiness took over him by speed of light.

                                                                                       ~~*~~

Naina opened her eyes as she felt the warm sunlight filtering through the curtains. Flipping on her side she watched Sameer sleeping. Lips open, semi parted, cheeks puffy and softly burned by the sunlight.She remembered the remnants of talk they had last night before she lost all her senses. She felt the need to protect him at all costs, from the people who held grudges against him, from the enemies and if required from the dangerous past of her.She wanted him to be at ease and not worry so much about his work,in which everyone had higher and higher expectations from him, about being perfect father to Nisha, perfect for each person he was closely associated with.She wanted him to hold her hand and rest his head on her shoulder when he needs a hug,to forget the rest, the bad things, the stressful ones, the complexities of decisions he was demanded to make.

She watched him sleep and thought about the times it all began. They were so young, so naïve. They have grown so much still were kids.But kids with handful of experiences, kids with a bit more will, kids with so much more to learn and kids with a literal kid.She was content that all of this was journey and she was taking it with this man, who ruffled in white covers now. She knew how she loved every bit of this person since they had almost collided in the school corridor and also that she knew she would never tell him all these aloud. She doesn't need to, because he knows it.They both do.

"Should it creep me out that my own wife is checking me out since long?"

Naina's trance broke and she grabbed a pillow, throwing at Sameer for his teasing comment. "Should I be creeped out that I am sharing the bed with a man after I was literally wasted on drinks?"

Sameer laughed and suddenly flipped on the bed, manoeuvring Naina. Now she lay under him and was still in surprise of this quick adventure. "You should thank the man then for not taking advantage of you." Sameer said, winking.

Knock , Knock

"I think somebody other needs to be thanked, Mr. Maheswari" Naina smirked and Sameer moved away ,whining at the interruption. He didn't mind it much as he checked the time.It was way past early morning and Nisha was bound to return. It was another day of explorations and they needed time to be in best of attires and mood before heading out.

After a fun filled cycle ride to Versailles along with cruise tours, the trip was gradually coming to end.Naina and Amrita had gelled up well in those few days, going out on shopping together as well. Rohan's trip to India prolonged and he finally called Amrita to cancel the trip and be back in London as he would not be able to make the trip back on time. Amrita had cried, scoffed and had then decided to tag along Naina for rest of trip.Sameer wanted to give a piece of his mind and lecture to Rohan but was only tamed by Naina.

"Papa! Yeh birds fly karke kitna dur chale jaate hein na. Phir yeh wapas kaise aate hein? Rashte bhatak na jaate?" Nisha asked as she looped her arms around Sameer's neck and looked up at flock of birds flying in sky. Naina was busy packing while Sameer and Nisha had walked to a local store to buy some travel essentials. "Rashte wo bhatak te hein jinka ghar nahin hota. Ab jaise hum rashta nahin bhatak rahe aur siddha hotel jaa rahe." Sameer said and took the walkway. "Papa! Ice Cream! Please." Nisha requested with a pout and puppy eyes.

This was Sameer's greatest weakness.

"Kounsa flavour?" Sameer asked as they scanned the menu of ice cream parlour. "Berry Vanilla with Almond. Wo pink white wala.Yum yum." Nisha licked her lips in excitement. In next few minutes, Nisha was licking the ice cream bar , while Sameer was wiping the melting ice cream from corners of her mouth.

                                                                                    ~~*~~

"Jo bhi soch rahi ho bol do. Neend achi aayegi." Sameer asked as he came back to the bed, getting inside the covers.

"Nahin waisa kuch important nahin." Naina shrugged , trying to concentrate on the page, she was trying to focus on since past 10 minutes. Sameer furrowed his eyes and nudged,"Chal jhoothi".

She gaped at that comment and hit him with the book adding "Hawa ane do".

"Kya baat hai?" Sameer asked again, this time tad serious.

Naina kept away the book and grabbed a pillow. She sighed before asking ;"Ghar mein, Business mein sab thik hai na?"

"Nanaji hein aur Munsi ji bhi.Fikr ki baat hi nahin." Sameer knew where her worries stemmed from. He was in same worries as well but few assuring phone calls had helped him calm down for a while.

"Nanaji jo tumhe Ahmedabad jaane ko bol rahe the, mujhe lag raha ab sahi waqt hai. Ek baar ghum aao toh Nanaji ko acha lagega. Rohan ka aise India jaana aur.. Pata nahin Sameer! Main negative ho gayi hun ki sach mein kuch bura hone wala hai.. Bhagwanji! Kya.." Naina squirmed hard and was shut by Sameer, with a quick kiss on her lips."Kal subah flight hai na.So jao.Sab thik hai.Trust me." Naina didn't argue back or say anything, letting exhaustion take over her for a long night sleep.

                                                                                           ~~*~~

"Nisha! Papa kahan hein? Ice cream ya chocolate lane?" Naina asked Nisha , as they rested in the airport lounge area. Sameer was no where to be seen after they had passed through security check.

"Mein nahin jaanti ,Mumma. Sachi. Your promise." Nisha swore and Naina smiled in acknowledgement."Acha. Hum wait karte hein phir."

" Didi! Aap sabko bada miss karungi. Rohan should be jealous." Amrita collected her belongings and was ready to fly back to London. Her boarding announcement began and soon the scene became a bit emotional. Nisha was sad too. She wanted her Chachi to fly back with them to Almora but it was not possible. She was going to miss her Chachi and her tablet which had so many movies and awesome games."Hum bhi miss karenge Chachi. Aap Almora aaoge toh Rishav se milwaungi.Phir hum wo Bingo bingo khelenge." Amrita nodded and hugged Naina as final farewell.

" Amrita! Yeh tumhare liye.. aur yeh Rohan ke liye." Sameer came running, pushing through a line, earning some glares. There were two presents wrapped beautifully with custom free tags dangling from them."Bhaiya! Oh My god. Thank you. Rohan dekh kar khushi se pagal ho jaayega." She knew how Rohan loved and pined for Sameer inspite of all differences.

"Phir Rishav ne itni jaldi homework karna start kiya ki pencil hi tut gayi." Nisha was in middle of sharing her classroom tales with Sameer, when she coughed a bit. Naina handed the water bottle and Sameer made her drink in sips."Nisha!Beta khane ke time baatein nahin karte, Mumma ne mana kiya tha na." Naina reminded.

"Sorry Mumma." Nisha held her ears in apology. Sameer smirked and whispered to Nisha." Naina Devi..Ahmedabad wali Rani"

"Papa! Jhansi wali Rani." Nisha whispered , enough loud , in Sameer's ears and giggled.

Naina glared at the father- daughter duo and commanded; "Haan sunai de raha mujhe. Ab khana khao dono chup chap." Sameer and Nisha winked at each other, giggling , went to finish the bland flight food.

                                                                                 ~ *~*~

" Naina!Wo mere Delhi and Ahmedabad wali tickets kahan hein?" Sameer called out, entering the kitchen. Naina was bent over stirring something in the wok , looking visibly exhausted.

" Naina! Kya hua? Ab bhi tabiyat kharab lag raha?" Sameer enquired as he caught her lost in some pensive thought. Naina turned around, asking "Ahmedabad jana zaroori hai?"

Sameer knew something was troubling her. She was physically not keeping well, rushing to throw up all that she had at crack of dawn, barely retaining any food. He knew sometimes jet lag affected the biological clock and metabolism but this seemed going over the limits. He had decided to take doctor's appointment but for now he needed to calm her down."Tum hi to bol rahe the ki Nanaji ko acha lagega, mujhe acha lagega , Ahmedabad walon ko acha lagega..ab phir?" He teased, trying to bring in some humour.

"Sameer! Mazaak mat karo. I am serious." Naina whinned.

"Bas kuch hi dinon ki baat hai. Ahmedabad ke baad Institute mein bhi kaam hai. Aur chutti nahin le sakta na." He said, his chin propped on Naina's shoulder."Samajh rahi. Pata nahin kya ho gaya mujhe." Sameer pulled her into an assuring hug and Naina clenched at his sweatshirt, feeling the internal urge to be clingy.

"Kuch nahin hua hai and I will make up for the absence." Sameer verbally assured and ran his thumb across her lower lip as a cue. Naina hit him lightly, separating from him, to take a look at the simmering dish on stove.

"Yeh dekho.Taste kaisa hai?" She spooned out a bit of rice kheer she was preparing and fed Sameer.

"Umm...Tasty. Koi khas occasion?"

Naina denied, turning to pull out a tiffin from kitchen cabinet. Sameer's confusion must have been evident on his face,Naina cleared."Niru ke liye bana rahi. Kabse request kar rahi thi, aaj jaake bani."

The shrill of door bell cut through the silence of house.

"Niru aa gayi shayad."

"Tum isse tiffin mein pack karo. Mein dekhta hoon." Sameer said, taking quick steps towards door.

Crash, Smash

"Sameer! Kya toota? Sambhal ke" Naina's words stuck in her mouth as she gasped aloud at the scene. Glass shreds from the portico frame scattered around. Two guys hovering over Sameer and one closing the main door. "VIKRAM"

Naina tiptoed across the hall and reached the bedroom.Tightly latching the door behind her, she rushed to the bed. Nisha was watching a kids' movie. She was holding her teddy and making it understand what the characters were conversing like Naina did to her during most nights. Nisha lifted her eyes off the laptop screen with the sudden banging.

"Mumma! Dinner ban gaya?"

Naina nodded and quickly pulled Nisha into a tightest hug. Flicking away the tears that were threatening to run down, she quickly got into action."Nisha! Iss kamre se mat nikalna aur Big Teddy ko pakad ke so jana.Thik hai?" Nisha looked surprised. Her big eyes held so much confusion and unknown fear. Naina didn't want to scare her,rather she, herself was scared. She was scared of the consequences. This was no movie, it was real life.If Sameer or she didn't make to the next sunrise, Nisha has to be protected. She needs to survive, live the dreams both Sameer and Naina had for her. Naina quickly sent the Ahmedabad address to Nirupama. The call could not be made since Niru's phone showed Switched off.There was not much time. She had to go and be with Sameer. A soft sob choked her almost. "Aur..aur..agar Mumma aur Papa.. bulane pe nahin jaage toh.."

"Toh mein aur zor se Mumma Papa chillaungi." Nisha said, waiting in anticipation if her answer was correct.

Naina would have cooed over this cuteness of Nisha , if it would have been some other time.But for now, she just said, hoping Nisha would remember all. ''Nahin beta..Tab Niru Aunty ko call karlena.Bas iss green wala button daba lena.Thik hai?" Naina asked showing the dial button on her phone.Nisha nodded,giving a thumbs up to Naina. '' Kuch bhi ho darwaza andar se mat Khulna. Mumma Promise?" Naina asked and Nisha hooked her little finger with Naina's finger "Mumma Promise."

Naina kissed Nisha on her forehead. She glanced over the framed photos of Sameer, her and Nisha, all smiling and crossed her finger. Soon she was gone and Nisha locked the door behind her, standing on her tiny chair. She was feeling a little hungry but she could know her mother was worried and upset. She can tolerate a little hunger because it was Mumma's promise not to open the door.

"Dekho Vikram! Hum papers Sudip ko de chuke hein."Naina saw Sameer asserting to Vikram.She could also see a slight reddish bruise forming on Sameer's cheekbone. An equal bruise on Vikram's forehead as well.

"Wo Sudip ko khatam karne se pehle tumhara hisab karlun Mr. Sameer Maheshwari. What say?" Vikram twirled the antique looking Damscus dagger between his fingers. The other two boys now held back Sameer by both his shoulders.

"VIKRAM! Sameer ko chodo.Achai nibha na sakte na tum?" Naina shouted and rushed to Sameer. Sameer looked surprised as well as upset a bit. He could fight it all with Vikram but he knew Vikram would not hurt him. The vile sadist he was, he would hurt Naina and that was the last thing he could endure.

Vikram turned on his heels, eyes sparkling with vengeance and lust , alike a diamond. His whole aura was intimidating and Naina shivered a bit. However more than fear, she felt more disgusted when Vikram caressed her cheeks with back of his knuckles."My darling Naina! Acha ban na muskil hai isliye mein bura ban gaya."

"VIKRAM! Mard hai to mujhse baat kar. Naina ko haath mat laga.Tod dunga wo haath." Sameer warned as he wriggled with the two other guys tightening the ropes around his wrist. He felt helpless and more worthless unable to protect the ones, whom he had promised several times.

Vikram gave a short laugh."Jiske haath khud bandhe ho wo Vikram Chauhan ka kya todega?" He popped his knuckles and did a quick stretch of shoulders. With a quick look from him, the other guys surrounded Naina.

"Kis baat ki badla le raho ab?" Naina screamed, angry tears flowing away. Her hands being tied up now.They didn't deserve this.

"Badla? Wo main liya hi kab? Badla toh tab lunga jab tumhein apna banaunga. Our esteemed Dean ke guzar jaane ke baad." Vikram said casually and Naina's eyes widened. Vikram smirked a little, before continuing in a dramatic fashion ; " My lord! I would like to take Mrs. Naina Maheshwari, wife of Late Sameer Maheshwari as my lawfully wedded wife. Hahhha... Tab hoga na asli badla, Naina darling." Vikram ended, trying to kiss Naina on cheek.

"Sapne hi dekhte raho." Naina uttered as she turned away her face. Vikram's demeanour changed a little. He was like he was thinking something.That scared Naina. She just hoped and silently prayed, he would not hurt Nisha, hurt Sameer..hurt her.

Before Naina could think anything more, Vikram whispered , enough loud for her to hear ;"Vikram Chauhan sapne na dekhta.Possibilities and probabilities dekhta hai. Aur yeh possibility ko reality karna ho toh.." His eyes averted from Naina and blood drained from Naina. It was like all nightmares came true at the moment.

Vikram stabbed Sameer.

The sharp dagger making an incision, ripping through Sameer's cotton shirt .In a way ripping Naina's whole world, bathing it in red tides of blood.

"SAMEER!" Naina shrieked out loud. Even with her hands tied, she rushed to Sameer.Sameer groaned , clutching the side of abdomen,his fingers gradually staining in blood. "Vikram! Please. Usse chod do.Please." Naina begged Vikram, finally breaking down.

Sameer winced hard as he tried to frame sentences.Naina was breaking, Nisha was alone and ignorant of this battle of life and death. Naina needs to leave him alone and run away to safety ,if any option was available."NAINA! Andar jao.Nisha.. akeli hai." Naina cried hard and didn't relent. Sameer tried harder and authoritatively commanded "JAO ANDAR."

"Sameer! '' Naina howled more, as she saw Sameer struggling to stand, staggering, trying to get hold of dining chair.

"Naina! My darling. Don't cry. You know I hate tears. Iss Maheshwari se achi zindagi dunga tumhein. Oh yeah! Nisha ko bahut sara pyaar bhi.Poor soul!" Vikram fake concerned. Naina internally swore , if given a chance, she would definitely kill Vikram someday and think of consequences later.

"Tujh jaise jalhad ke pyaar paane se acha wo koi orphanage mein chali jaaye. Mar jaayenge lekin tere kabhi na honge." Naina was firm now. She can't let Vikram just think all of them as poor souls. She was literally feeling a pool of fire burning inside her.

"Naina! I just love ..love this about you. Tumhein iss Maheshwari kabhi bataya hai ki how sexy you look when angry?"

"Vikram! Mein abhi zinda hoon.Get off from her" Sameer shouted, with all pent up energy. " Naina! Please jao .." He almost begged.

"Kahan jaun? Tumhein chodke aise? Wo thik hai. Tum please kuch mat kaho ab." Naina tried hard not to cry. All she wanted now was Sameer to save energy and last till all this ends.

Amidst all the gory mess, Naina hit upon a thought. She knew it would cost her everything, but she can go to any lengths for Sameer. In sickness and health,till death do us part, as she had vowed at the marriage altar."Vikram! Tumhein mein chahiye thi na..Lo karlo apna muraad puri.Please Sameer ko kuch mat karo."

"Meri pyaari Naina! Pata hai mein ek khula kitaab tha.Din raat pada raha tumhare saamne ki kabhi toh padho mujhe. Par nahin..Ab exam time hai and you failed..Naina Maheshwari.."

Surprised. Shocked. Devastated.

Naina's breath hitched. She could not scream nor can cuss out another word. Her body had stilled, mind numbed. She was not sure if she was breathing even. She had stopped wriggling while the tight ropes were still cutting across her wrists. The ropes finally went loose with a hard tug.

"Nai..na.." The pain spiralled through his body and was slowly numbing his senses. There was a throbbing pain somewhere in his body and he didn't know where. Sameer groaned before falling to the floor, his head hitting the pieces of broken glasses.

"SAMEER! Please hosh mein aao..Mein akele ab kya karungi? SAMEER!" Naina requests, begs and screams. Yet Sameer can't say anything. The words didn't form. His eyes felt more glassy, unfocused. It was turning painful. Naina runs her hand to stop the blood flowing but the patch of red just kept getting bigger.

"Itna pathar dil kaisa ho sakta hai tumhara?" Naina asked Vikram, who watched like enjoying a movie.She no more wanted replies in return.She just wanted all this to end quick. "Sameer! Please ankhein kholo..kuch toh bolo." Naina cups Sameer's face, coaxing him hard to not lose consciousness. Sameer was internally fighting.He tried to assure but his pained body didn't allow him. A tear escaped him seeing Naina crying, howling in distress and he could do nothing.As if fuelled by the determination and love in his heart, he squeezed Naina's hand. The best he could do to assure her that he was still alive, still fine enough to survive this.

"Being heartless is better than being heartbroken...And I would love to be heartless." Vikram held the dagger like a pencil and stabbed Sameer, again. A spurt of blood flew across the wooden floor.

Naina shut her eyes, tears unceasingly flowing. Was it the cruellest nightmare of her life? Will she ever recover from this shock? Her whole life had supposedly climaxed in one dark night. Was it the end of all her love, small happy family universe they had created together?

"VIKRAM! " Naina slapped hard.

Vikram wheezed a bit at the impact. A possessive rage took over him. He clasped Naina's wrists hard , whispering loud ;"Naina Agarwal! Jabse tumhein jana hai...Tum meri ho. Only Mine." Pinning her hard against the wooden floor,he asserts.

"Kutta, kameena..Hatt mere upar se'' Naina yells, kicking Vikram hard with her knee. Vikram's grip loosened and Naina pushed him hard enough to catch the weapon, that had caught her eyes.

"Tch! Naina ..Yeh cheating hai." Vikram grumbled.

"Vikram! Mere pass bhi aaye na main khatam karlungi khud ko.Sach mein apni jaan le lungi." Naina held a broken piece of glass, the only weapon to save her chastity and may be her dear life.She knew somewhat that Vikram would not let her die easily, but she didn't know how long she can put on the battle.

"Naina!Dekho aisa mat karo. Lag jaayegi." Vikram warned, trying to take steps forward.

Naina's eyes shot red, as she held the glass piece close to her neck. Being the topper of Human Anatomy paper during her Masters , she knew neck was the most sensitive part, and if hurt caused immediate casualties.Angling the glass piece along one popping vein, she counter warned;"Dur reh mujhse..Ek kadam badhaya na..."

Vikram understood her intentions well. He was ready for plan B. And that's bringing on Nisha to the scene.

Ring Ring

Before Vikram could make a progress in his plan of action, the landline blew off incessantly. Naina looked at the telephone, seeing it as a faint ray of help. She hoped against hope for the caller to feel the mess and come to their help.

"Boys! Pack off." Vikram asked , aborting the mission for the night. The other two guys rushed out , starting on the bikes. Vikram quickly collected his dagger that lay, stained with blood,in Sameer's limp hands." You are fortunate Baby. Mein phir aaunga.Good Night" .Vikram blew a flying kiss at Naina and was gone into the dark of night.

Naina rushed, toppling over the chair, to reach Sameer. A faint relief washed across her face, when she felt faint hint of pulse. But the relief was short lived. There was uneven breathing and the body was gradually getting cold. Naina tries to deny. She gently pushes away the bangs from his forehead and cradled his face. "Sameer! SAMEER! Please ankhein kholo. Please.." She feels a laboured release of air from Sameer.There is a stoic response. Sameer doesn't move. She was losing him and perhaps this was forever.

She can't. She needs to shout for help.She needs to call for help.She needs to go fetching for help.

Yet she couldn't. A sharp sense of nausea hit her, making her brain swirl. Her head felt heavy, and eyes drooped on their own. With a sharp jolt from within, she fell unconscious.

Nisha opened the door slowly, attentively trying not to make any noise. The bad men have probably left. There was total silence and that was terrifying. Her Papa should have come to tell her not to fear because he was there for his little princess .Her Mumma would have come with a big plate of dinner saying that it was over and they all can see the movie now. Both her Mumma and Papa would have pulled her into safest hugs and showered her with kisses. Nothing like that happened.

Nisha carefully walked holding her teddy, hope and fear drumming inside her. It was something she had never felt before. She winced as a glass cut her foot slightly and there were droplets of blood. And then she finally found her parents.

She pressed the green button finally. She could hear Nirupama's worried words. She could not explain. The scene made no sense. She could only whisper "Mumma Papa.."

Nirupama rushed inside the house to find Nisha hugging her teddy bear with numb eyes, frock having stains of blood. While her two most favourite people lay in a pool of blood, seemingly lifeless.

(To be Continued)

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