Seeing her daughter rapidly emptying the glass of water, Rama remarked "Next time when you go shopping with Madhu remember to carry a water bottle!" Still gulping the last of it, Naina just nodded in reply.

"So, how was the shopping? How is that new shopping complex? Did you buy anything for yourself?" Rama questioned enthusiastically. Naina plopped on the sofa next to her mother and replied ambiguously "No Maa. I just gave her some company. Anyway, I didn't need anything. The shopping complex is nice." Rama uttered a little disappointed "You should have at least bought the matching dupatta for that red and black dress."

Then moving a little closer to Naina, she observed appreciatingly "Did Madhu buy some perfume? You are smelling so good!" Naina almost jumped out of her seat and headed inside muttering "No... we just tried some in one of the shops. Maa, I will go change and then help you with the cooking."

Bolting her bedroom door, Naina let out a sigh of relief. Taking out the bottle from her bag, Naina stood contemplating on a hiding place for it. She had not expected her mother to smell the perfume on her!

But then that wasn't the only unexpected thing that had happened that day! As she stood rummaging in her cupboard, her thoughts flew to the earlier events at Sameer's house.

The doorbell which had interrupted their romantic moment, had announced the arrival of one of Sameer's cousin. The over enthusiastic young lad had dropped by to welcome and make sure that his brother from London was comfortably settling in. But finding a young woman visiting Sameer had only led to some astonished and many uncomfortable glances! Some vague introductions had followed while the cousin kept on glancing at Naina as if though he was trying to solve some puzzle.

Soon after, Naina had left insisting she had some important errands to attend to.

* * *

Two days later, Naina was sitting in a café her one foot tapping impatiently against the floor. It was more than ten minutes past their agreed time of meeting.

She had been out conducting a tour the day before and Sameer had been extremely busy too. They had managed to squeeze in a just a five-minute phone call before he headed out to dinner with some business associates.

When the waiter approached her table yet again wanting to know if she was ready to order, she half-heartedly ordered a coffee and then went back staring at the entrance.

Since her phone call to him about lunchtime, a nervous energy had been bubbling though her veins at the prospect of meeting him after work. This was new. Meeting a man for a coffee. Am I really on a date? On a date with Sameer?!

It still felt so unreal at times... almost like the alarm clock would go off anytime... and wake her up from this beautiful, long drawn-out dream.

But the dream just got better and the man who had invaded her dreams all these years, stepped through the entrance of the café. Naina gazed at him taking in his formal wear. He was dressed in black leather shoes, dark trousers, and a white shirt.

Looking a little frazzled, he checked his watch and then started searching for her.

He noticed Naina, just as she started clambering out of her chair to wave at him. Flashing her a radiant smile he took some quick strides towards her table. But once close by, he stood next to her a little uncertainly. Had they been in London, he would have hugged her lightly or dropped a quick kiss on her cheeks. But they were in India. So, he offered her handshake and then dropped in the chair across from her.

"You look tired!" Naina uttered taking in the dark circles around his eyes. He grimaced "I haven't got a chance to get over the jet-lag yet... and it's already so full on at work." Seeing her worried expression, he shrugged "It's okay. I will be fine in a couple of days. How was your day?"

As Naina shared a small update of her unexceptional day, the waiter approached them, and Sameer ordered a coffee for himself.

The caffeine too worked its magic while he gazed at Naina as she recounted some funny anecdotes from the tour that she had taken out the previous day. Her eyes sparkled and the tiny dimples at the corner of her lips played peek-a-boo. The sight of her uplifted his spirits and Sameer soon looked better than when he had arrived.

"So, how did the interviews go today? Did you like any of the candidates?" Naina asked knowing he was supposed to meet some applicants for the post of his personal assistant. "I met with three today, of which I liked two!" he shared looking pleased and then continued almost thinking out loud "The guy it a bit more experienced, but the girl seemed very well suited to the role. She is smart... and very presentable too. I am sure she will learn very quickly on the job. I have told Munshiji I will get back to him tomorrow."

Naina muttered "Is she willing to travel? You will have to take overnight trips at times, right?" Sameer shrugged "I did share the job requirements with all the candidates quite clearly. None of them seemed averse to the idea of occasional travel."

Sameer held out the menu to her "Naina, I am getting a little peckish. What do you recommend? Something to share maybe... just make sure it's not too spicy."

As her eyes scanned the four-page long menu shortlisting some recommendations, Naina was consumed by some disquiet. What exactly does 'smart and very presentable' mean? Is that his way of subtly saying that the girl is very attractive?!

As soon as Sameer had ordered a plate of mini spring rolls, Naina spoke sounding a little uncertain "Don't you think that someone more experienced will be a better choice? I mean, you are already new to this market and have lot of learning to do of your own..." He nodded thoughtfully "That's where I am still a little undecided. But at times, the willingness to learn and adapt works better than a know-it-all attitude. Also based on her attire it seemed she has a good eye for fashion. She might be able to add some insights when we go visiting suppliers."

Just what was she wearing?? She has impressed him so much with her dressing sense in just one meeting! Naina absentmindedly popped another spring roll in her mouth, as Sameer voiced his approval "These are really tasty! Good choice..."

Thank God! He at least likes my choice in food! She drew some satisfaction. But then she glanced down at the relatively new orange shalwar-kameez she had chosen to wear that day, wondering - Should I ask him what exactly was she wearing? I mean it was an interview... what can anyone wear to an interview that has left such an impression??

Just then Sameer started telling her about an interesting character he had met during one of the meetings with a supplier earlier that day.

Sometime went by, till Naina exclaimed looking at her watch "Sameer! I must go now! If I miss the bus scheduled to leave in the next twenty minutes, the next one is scheduled almost an hour later. I will be too late reaching home. Maa will worry a lot!"

When Sameer sprang to his feet and started following her, she frowned "Why are you leaving? First finish the food and then leave. No point in wasting it..." He shook his head dismissively "Don't be silly! I will drop you to the bus stop. The driver must be waiting outside. Let me just settle the bill."

Few minutes later, Naina stood fidgeting with her dupatta while Sameer craned his neck trying to spot the driver. "I told him to wait for me just outside this gate after finding a spot to park the car." She replied waving a rickshaw "I can't wait any longer! It can take close to fifteen minutes in this traffic. I will call you tonight. Bye!"

Sameer waved at her as she peeped out of the rickshaw mouthing another goodbye. Sounding annoyed he muttered to no one in particular "Where the hell did that guy go?!"

* * *

Naina sat absently staring outside the bus window as it sped towards Khed. She had made it to the bus-stop just in time. Another minute and she would have been left waiting on the sidewalk for the next hour!

There was still a little nip in the air, but it was clear that winter was very much on its way out. The days had slowly started getting longer and warmer.

Naina shifted a little closer to the window as another young woman took the seat next to her. The woman was carrying a formal looking large handbag in one hand and a cotton bag filled with vegetables in the other. Seemed like she had stopped by at the vegetable market after finishing work. As soon as she settled down, she closed her tired eyes.

Glancing at the Mangalsutra hanging around her neck, Naina decided the lady was just trying to catch a few minutes of rest as she would be expected to start on the cooking and cleaning the moment she reached home.

The mother-in-law would probably make some sarcastic remarks, how some women had it easy just sitting in a chair all day long, whereas others like her had to spend the day on their toes. As if, working from dawn to midnight, alternating between her household and work-related responsibilities, the poor woman is living her dream!

But this was the norm that working women had to abide to. And most of them were only trying to step up, to provide a better life for their families, not pursuing a hobby!

This line of thought led to another. Naina's thoughts returned to the female candidate that Sameer had been talking about at the café. Her first instinct had been to question the decision to hire a young woman. But now she pondered - Apart from my own insecurities, there isn't anything objectionable.

Had she not been subjected to this prejudice herself? She never missed the looks of scepticism and wariness that her female customers cast her way... when their husbands spoke to her in a friendly manner, or when she laughed at their silly jokes out of a sense of obligation. Didn't she inwardly fume in indignation in those moments? Sometimes she wanted to retort – Maybe you have reason to distrust your husband, but you have no right to question my moral values! I am not at all interested in your man!

Now ashamed of herself, she chided herself - Naina, would you want to deprive some deserving and probably needy woman of a work opportunity just because the idea of Sameer spending time around her makes you jealous?!

* * *

The next night during their nightly call, Sameer shared "Madhav has accepted the offer and is starting from next week." Naina asked uncertainty "What happened? I thought you were keener on that female candidate... it did sound like she was a better fit." He sighed "We did reach out to her first, but she said that on more reflection she decided that it would be hard for her to balance the travel with her family obligations. Her kid is still too young."

Naina flushed at the thought that she had been wary of a young mother. Thank God, I did not voice any strong reservations against her hiring!

She quickly steered the conversation in another direction "What did Champa cook for you today? Was is potatoes again?" Sameer whined "It was Methi with potatoes!" Naina chuckled as Sameer grumbled "She adds potatoes to every vegetable! Potatoes do not count as vegetables. They are carbs!"

Naina replied laughing "Well, in India, potatoes are vegetables! Just tell her not to add them to everything." And then she smirked "Oh wait... but how can you tell her?? Hmm... let me think... Well, point out a potato tomorrow and shake your head!" Sameer rolled his eyes "Very funny!" He then continued complaining "Plus she makes everything so spicy... and before you offer your valuable input... yes, I will point to the chili powder tomorrow and shake my head!"

Her eyes crinkled in amusement for a few moments, before Naina whispered "Thank you!" He sounded perplexed "For what??" She fiddled with the telephone wire as she replied, "For stepping out of your comfort zone for my sake."

He went for quiet for a bit before responding softly "For our sake. Naina, this isn't just for you." She swallowed the moisture gathering in her throat and mumbled "I know. But I still appreciate it." She added gruffly "Sameer, please let me know if there is anything, I can help you with."

He seemed to dwell on her statement for a bit and then declared with twinkling eyes at the other end "Actually, there is! Call me at home from your office tomorrow morning before you head out for your tour. Without fail!"

Naina asked surprised "What can I help you with so early in the morning? And that too, over the phone??" He smirked "Keep guessing as you fall asleep thinking about me... And don't even try refuting the fact! Cause I am very confident of my charms." It was her turn to roll her eyes and huff "Very funny!"

But she did just what he had predicted! She tossed and turned, cluelessly wondering why he wanted her to call him so early the next morning.

She was on the bus with her tour group and had just finished her introductory speech covering the overview of the day ahead. So far it seemed like an amicable group. Interested, but not overtly inquisitive!

Naina pursed her lips trying to control her smile as she sat down. The memory of the phone call from earlier was playing in her mind. It had been the most unexpected conversation!

No sooner had he finished wishing her a good morning than Sameer rushed on "I know you are in a hurry to carry on with you work. So, I will keep this brief. Do you have a pen and paper?" As Naina hummed, he carried on "Make a note of all that I say now, and then make sure that you convey it to her when she comes on the phone."

Naina muttered more than a little confused "Convey what?? And to whom??!" When he sounded a little stern "Didn't you offer to help last night?" Naina started protesting "Yes, but... I don't understand... who do you want me to talk to??"

Sameer chuckled at her nervous reaction "Stop worrying! I just want you to talk to Champa and explain to her about the food!"

Naina sighed in relief and then scribbled some notes. Less spicy, less coconut, no adding potatoes to all veggies, no need to make two vegetables for every meal just a dal and one vegetable dish is enough, desserts shouldn't be so overtly sweet.

Sounding quite scared, when Sameer thrust the phone receiver in her hand, Champa uttered an apprehensive "Kyon hai?" But slowly her fears faded as Naina explained that they had met on the weekend and then conveyed all of Sameer's instructions. Champa nodded repeatedly and promised to bear all the instructions in mind.

They had ended the call with some hasty goodbyes and promises to talk at the end of the day.

Naina's mind now drifted to the sceptical looks that she had started receiving from her mother every time the phone rang. How long will Maa go along with my excuse of talking to Madhu?

The previous night Rama had sweetly said to her "Naina, you should soon invite Madhu over for lunch on a Sunday. Or better still, why don't you invite her to stay the night with us?! She can accompany you back on Saturday after work and then spend time with us on Sunday. I will make Pav Bhaji!" Naina had nodded and uttered trying to sound enthusiastic "That sounds like a lovely idea Maa! I will convey your invitation."

Why this sudden interest in inviting Madhu home?! Is Maa trying to suss out something??

* * *

The newly reunited lovers could not meet for the next couple of days.

Sameer was invited to dinner with Dinesh on Thursday, as Dinesh wanted to introduce him informally to some of his business associates. And Naina was away on a tour on Friday. They made a tentative plan to meet on Saturday evening, but had to cancel it as some work-related issue cropped up for Sameer.

The nightly quick calls when possible were their only solace on those days.

A repeat of the previous Sunday's activity was decided on. Naina again made some excuse at home of meeting some girls from work and headed to Sameer's before lunch time. This time she was extra mindful of the traffic and did not cause Sameer any anxiety!

As Sameer greeted her in the porch dressed in jeans and a red t-shirt, Naina noticed that he was looking well rested. She remarked smiling "Looks like you are finally over the jet-lag!" He agreed "Yes, I finally managed to fall asleep at a decent time last night and got some good sleep."

Sameer took in the way Naina had tied her hair in a loose plait more towards one side. She was wearing a shalwar kameez in black and white print. But what really stood out was the oxidised choker set with black stones that she was wearing.

His eyes narrowed in recognition "Is that the same necklace I got you in Sudhagadh?" She smiled broadly "Yes. I wasn't sure if you would remember..." Before he could respond, she added quickly "Yes... I know... I am the one with memory related problems!" This reference to their conversation from her last week, had him laughing softly. As he led her inside, his soft gaze lingered on his gift encircling her neck.

A small content smile played at the corners of his lips noting that she had treasured it all along. He remarked "I am so happy to see that you kept it all these years." As her fingers flew to lightly caress the necklace, Naina offered a tiny smile and then replied in a low voice "I did keep it... but I hadn't worn it since that time in Dasi Mahal."

The air in the room turned murky with memories and regrets of the past.

Luckily, just then Champa arrived with the glasses of water. She now greeted Naina with a smile of familiarity. Then after trying to unobtrusively stand in the background for a minute or so, Champa hesitantly addressed Sameer "Bhaiya... laundry..."

"Of course!" he stood up immediately and then turned to Naina "Can you please come inside for a minute?" Complying with his request, Naina followed him, but with some uncertainly.

She was completely flabbergasted when he led her to the bathroom towards the back! What did I say or do to imply that I need to use a bathroom? A peek inside only further baffled her, as Champa pointed at the two piles of clothes on the bathroom floor and looked at her with a questioning gaze.

Does she want my help washing clothes?! Very astonished, Naina stood staring at the clothes and the young helper in front of her.

Luckily before Naina's imagination could fly any further, Sameer spoke "Naina, please explain to her that she should not use the brush for scrubbing on any of my clothes other than jeans. That first pile with t-shirts should be soaked in lukewarm water only. The dark trousers and formal shirts can be soaked in hot, but not very hot water. And yes, no wringing my clothes too hard. It leaves too many wrinkles and stretches some fabrics out of shape!"

Relieved with this explanation of why she had been ushered towards the bathroom, Naina slowly conveyed the instructions to Champa. Just when she though they were done, Sameer added "Oh yes, and tell her not to use the blue stuff on my whites. I want them to stay white, not dye them sky blue!" Nodding at him, Naina advised Champa to stop using Neel on his clothes.

Champa vigorously nodded her head and assured Naina that she would follow all the instructions to a tee.

On their way back to the lounge, Sameer remarked "I told her to hold off on doing the laundry since yesterday till you were here." Naina asked confused "How did you tell her? I mean, how did you manage to explain that to her?" He shrugged "I just said – Laundry Naa. Sunday Naina."

Naina chuckled to herself wondering if Champa had been plagued by the same doubts that had seized her a few minutes back.

Once back in the lounge, Sameer handed her a large silver paper gift bag, "This is from Deepu." Naina stammered peering in "Sameer... why has she sent so many things?? This is too much..." He held up his hands in mock surrender "That's between the two of you... I am just playing the part of a courier service here!"

Noting she was still hesitant to accept it, he nudged her "It's okay. Deepu has sent it with lot of love. Go on... check it out! In fact, I didn't get a chance to look at the stuff properly either."

It seemed like Deepika had gone for a gift basket theme, because there was an assortment of gifts in there. With growing astonishment, Naina kept pulling out many thing: Chocolates, a tin of shortbread biscuits, a body cream, a fridge magnet in the shape of Tower Bridge, a small wallet and then finally a pen with something printed across it.

As Naina tried to make out the relevance of the words – Design Concepts, Sameer explained smiling "That's from her workplace. She is super excited about her new job and keeps giving everyone pens from her office!" Touched by Deepika's thoughtfulness, Naina smiled warmly at the reveal. Finding the contents of the bag a bit over the top, she started protesting "Sameer, I can't keep all of this... there is really no need for-" He quickly interjected "You have her address, right? So, send her all your objections! I have just done my bit!" Her shoulders slumped in acceptance.

Curiosity got the better of her when she read the mention of French Lavender on the body cream. Naina squeezed out pea sized dollop of the cream and rubbed it into her palms. As soothing light and floral scent hit her nostrils, her eyes instinctively closed. She had read about the lavender fields in France and how the herb had been used in those regions since historic times not only in perfumes but as a medicine too. The idea that the fragrance captured in France had travelled all the way to Ahmedabad made it smell sweeter!

Sameer watched her in silence. She made a very pretty picture. Head slightly rolled back, eyes closed, and lips parted in a faint smile. Time ceased following the normal laws of physics. Moments seemed to stretch into eons.

When she opened her eyes, Naina's breath hitched. His gaze washed over her, singeing her skin, and leaving behind a rosy glow.

Disconcerted by his unabashed perusal of her, she managed to croak "Why are you staring like that?" He did not reply but continued looking at her for a bit more. She prompted again, now sounding nervous "Sameer?? What's the matter?"

Shaking his head, he responded "I was just comparing present you to the images I have been staring at all these years." Shifting closer, he held her hand and entwined their fingers. "You have no idea how many hours I have spent gazing at those photos...how I used to drown myself in those memories. Or how desperately I tried to hold on to each of them!"

Contrary to the joy he had expected this declaration to invoke in her, a look of pain flashed in her eyes.

"Why do you look sad?" Sameer questioned baffled by her reaction. Naina whispered "I used to feel so angry... it felt so unfair that you had all those photos when you probably didn't care at all... while I lived in fear of those memories fading away." She added with a catch in her voice "Sameer, I didn't have even a single photo of you!" A few tears threatened to spill from her eyes.

He swiftly drew her hand to his lips muttering "Hey... I am here now, aren't I?" The nerve pathways worked extra efficiently as tingles erupting from the back of her palm where he kissed her rushed to the depths of her heart and soul. All of her pulsated with the need to slip into his arms and stay cocooned in his embrace for an eternity.

The intensity of her desires, of her needs, it left her speechless.

When she nodded quietly, he continued in a teasing tone "And I will be happy to model for you any time you want! Feel free to click as many photos as you like!" He was pleased to see that his last comment had the desired effect as she chuckled softly blinking away the tears.

For some time, they sat chatting about their professional lives. Sameer shared an overview of his meetings with various suppliers and the changes he was contemplating on making to the factory's setup. Various machinery would have to be upgraded, new processes for quality checks would have to be established and so on.

Ramdhari stopped by at some point to check if they were happy to eat lunch at one and Sameer nodded. Munni tagged behind him and shyly held out a piece of paper with some scribbles on it. Sameer beamed at her and nodded encouragingly, while Naina uttered some words praising her effort. The little girl, pleased with her newfound audience, settled down on the carpet and continued scribbling with a blue pen. Every few minutes, she would present her art to Sameer and Naina and then expectantly await their admiration!

The conversation then turned to Naina's family.

Sameer enquired "How is Naniji feeling? Did you talk to her doctors again?" Naina muttered half-heartedly "No... we didn't get a chance to meet him. He is currently out of town. I will set up an appointment in the coming weeks. But she is doing fine."

Not keen to prolong that discussion, Naina started telling him about upcoming wedding of one of her neighbours and the pandal being installed in their society. Sameer listened to her with growing amusement, how the whole building was involved in the planning and execution of the wedding. And when so many people volunteered to help with the organisation, there was no need for any wedding planners!

They were so lost in conversation and probably each other, that neither heard the front gate opening. It was only when Ramdhara rushed in announcing the arrival of some guests, that Naina pulled her hand away and Sameer shot to his feet.

They had barely managed to take a few steps away from each other when a middle-aged couple walked it. The man was dark complexioned with a thick moustache and was on the shorter side. He was dressed in white short sleeved shirt and white trousers. Maybe it was the big smile he flashed, or the way he greeted Sameer with folded hands... but the first thought that occurred to Naina was – Is he here campaigning for votes?? I wasn't aware of any up-coming elections... The woman was slim with sharp features, and whom Naina would have usually regarded as pretty, had it not been for her haughty expressions.

Sameer uttered more than a little surprised "Mamaji, how are you? I wasn't expecting you!" The lady by his chuckled giving Naina a knowing look "Of course, you weren't expecting us. But then, isn't that the point of a surprise visit?!"

Naina smiled uncomfortably as Sameer carried out the introductions "Naina, meet Kamlesh Mama and Prabha Mami. They used to live Ahmedabad but moved to Bombay just last year." As all guests bobbed their head in acknowledgement of each other, Prabha spoke with an overly sweet but equally fake smile "Naina, is it? You are a friend of Sameer's?"

When Naina nodded, Prabha remarked to nobody in particular "I really admire how this young generation is so friendly... look at these two... Sameer beta has been here for hardly a week and has made friends already!" Turning to Naina she remarked "You must be one of his employees?? How nice of you to offer to help your boss to settle in a new place!"

Before Sameer could get his head around the connotations, Naina replied looking a little anxious "No, I don't work for him. We have been friends for some time now..." Sameer jumped into help her "Mamiji, in fact, Naina is good friends with Deepu too. You didn't make it to Rohan's wedding, else you would have met Naina there."

Prabha eyes widened with curiosity about this young woman who was apparently a family friend. Luckily Champa arrived with water for the new arrivals, and Prabha commenced a rapid question round with Champa about how she was taking take of the house and her precious Sameer beta.

Seeing Prabha casting peevish glances at Munni, who was still busy scribbling away, Champa coaxed the little girl inside.

Noticing the gift bag and items on the coffee table, Prabha exclaimed "So many gifts! Naina, you must be a very special friend! Sameer beta... how thoughtful of you to bring so many things for your friend."

Feeling a little uneasy, Naina muttered "These are from Deepika..." and then she left the need to add "They aren't all for me... Sameer had just brought the bag out." She quickly grabbed the tube of the body cream muttering "Just this one is for me. Sameer please convey my thanks to Deepika. I will of course write to her... but just in case you talk to her before that."

Noting his nephew's barely concealed irritation, Kamlesh addressed Sameer sounding only a tad embarrassed "Please don't mind your Mami... she just happens to be the curious sort." He then chided his wife "Prabha, aren't you forgetting to give Sameer the Ladoos and Mathiya you have brought for him?!"

As Prabha pulled out an assortment of packets of food from a big handbag, she provided a commentary "Your Mamaji told me just day before about his plans to travel to Ahmedabad... Since he was coming by our car, I decided to join him too. Sameer beta, I immediately got busy with making all these things especially for you! Took me the whole day too. Poonam... that's my daughter-in-law, is of no use when it comes to such things! Girls these days... all they are interested in is movies and make-up!"

Naina listened with mounting incredulity. One look at Prabha and anyone could tell that she put a lot of effort in maintaining and grooming herself! The eyebrows were too shaply, the lips too rosy and the hair too uniformly black for any of that to be natural. The saree she was drapped in was the style that was very much in vogue at the time thanks to a similar style worn by Madhuri in one of her latest hits. She is a fine one to complain about movies and make-up! Naina bristled on the inside.

Sameer reflexively thanked Prabha for her thoughtfulness and turned to his uncle "How long will you be in Ahmedabad for? Are you here for work or just a personal visit?" Kamlesh replied elusively "Had to meet my lawyer for some stuff. We will return to Bombay in a week or so. Since it's Sunday today, we decided it would be a good opportunity to spend time with you."

Already rattled by the arrival of the unexpected guest and the inquest that had followed, Naina decided that it was best that she make a quick exit. Once again, she made some quick excuses and bid stood up bidding Sameer and the other a goodbye.

Prabha smiled coyly again "It was lovely to meet you Naina. I am sure Vishakha didi must be very pleased to hear that Sameer beta is surrounded by his close friends here. Do keep visiting him." Turning to Sameer she added her voice laced with phoney concern "Beta, it's just that considering you live here alone, be careful that people don't start wagging their tongues unnecessarily. You are a boy and an almost a foreigner for that matter... but girls here have to be more careful."

As Sameer walked her out, he whispered "Naina, why are you leaving in a rush? I don't want you to leave on their account!" She shook her head "Sorry... but I don't feel comfortable. It's okay spend time with them today. They are here for just a few days, right? We can catch-up later during the week."

On her way back, some unease rose within her as Naina kept dwelling on the Prabha's looks and words. Will that lady say something to Sameer's mother? And what will his mother think of me visiting him like this?

* * *

Few days later, when they met after work, this time it was at a restaurant closer to her bus stop. And the driver had been left with strict instructions to not move from his position!

Sameer handed her the other gifts from Deepika "Why did you leave these back on Sunday? Naina, what's there to hide if Deepu wants to send you few gifts?! It's your personal business." Naina groaned "Sameer, I didn't want Mamiji to read too much into it and spread any gossip amongst your relatives. She is right. This is India, and there is no personal business!"

Sameer snorted "This is bloody ridiculous! Why do you care about what that nosey woman thinks or says? In fact, what I really don't understand is how can she find the energy to meddle in other people's lives!" Taking a small sip of his water he continued "Guess what, currently they are the biggest topic of gossip in my relatives! Mamaji had to file for bankruptcy last year and moved to Bombay to start working with Mamiji's brothers. They are still involved in a lot of legal battles with their creditors."

Naina mouth opened in a surprised O. This bit of information left her scandalised. Nonetheless, she couldn't shake off the anxieties that Prabha had manged to instil in her. On both the Sundays, some of his relatives had stopped by and found her visiting him. If this continued, it wouldn't be very long before this news reached his mother.

Unaware of her thoughts, Sameer placed their order for coffees and one masala Dosa, as Naina wasn't very hungry. They chatted about the happenings in their lives for a bit. Sameer shared how it was to work with his new PA Madhav, who had joined that week. Though it had been just a few days, Sameer seemed pleased with the guy.

Suddenly recalling something, Sameer exclaimed "I almost forgot! I was speaking to Dinesh yesterday and he happened to mention that his mother recently underwent heart surgery. Thinking of your Nani, I enquired about the surgeon. Dinesh said his mother was operated on by Dr Sethi, who is one of the best cardiologists in the country. He is based in Bombay but spends few days a month in Ahmedabad seeing patients at the Apollo Hospital. Dr Sethi also happens to be related to Dinesh on his wife's side, so he can easily manage to make an appointment for you."

The colour drained off Naina's face as she fiddled with the extra fork on the table. Sameer asked her with a flummoxed expression "Naina, what's wrong? I thought you would be happy to hear that Naniji could get treated by a top-notch heart specialist. If nothing else, at least see him for a second opinion. Don't just go along with whatever that doctor from Khed is saying. Make sure that delaying the surgery is the right recommendation!"

After few moments of internal conflict, Naina let out a resigned sigh "Sameer... It's not that we don't understand the risks with the delays. The truth is, we still haven't saved enough for the surgery. Apart from the Surgeon's charges, the tests and medicines associated with the surgery, and the hospitalization... it's all costs a fair bit. Nani's doctor is from Ahmedabad and is a good one. But he understands that we are still putting the funds together and hence agreed to delaying the surgery considering she is responding well to the current medication."

"But is she not entitled to essential surgery under any government healthcare plan?" Sameer asked frowning. Naina replied dejectedly "Frankly, we don't trust the government hospitals and the free healthcare provided there. Only the very low-income families go there, the one's with no hope of being able to afford treatment elsewhere."

Squaring her shoulders, she spoke with more determination "I don't want that for her. It's just a matter of another couple of months. Maa and I are almost there."

Reaching out to give her hand a gentle squeeze, Sameer asked softly "Naina, why didn't you share this with me before? Hey, let me help you. Tell me, how much more do you need for the surgery?"

Money from him?! She momentarily looked aghast at the notion as some ghosts of feelings of the past arose within her and then sat impassively for a bit. Finally, she squeezed back his hand "Thank you for the offer. But I cannot accept any money from you." He immediately countered "Why not??" She licked her lower lip nervously "I don't feel comfortable... You are already doing so much for us... for me... I cannot let money become a part of this... of our dynamics." Seeing him about to object, she announced with a finality to her tone "And Maa will never agree to it either. She is very particular about things like this."

Sameer nodded "Okay. But think about it. It would be a loan. You can pay me back in a few months." Though she nodded, smiling slightly in response, Sameer could see it in her eyes that she wasn't really going to consider it.

Later as he watched her wave from the bus window, Sameer stood marvelling on the enigma that she was. So soft and yet so unyielding. At the same time, he wondered when she would start making exceptions, at least when it came to him.

* * *

(Hi Dearies, 

Hope you all are keeping well and had a lovely Diwali with your loved ones. So, what did you think of this chapter?  It is extra long to make up for the long break :) Eagerly wating to hear your thoughts! 

Things are getting better on the work front and I will be back to the fortnightly updates from here on! 

Take care and stay safe. 

Lots of love, May)