The First Date. (Short Story)

Hello Readers! This is the story of a unique first date. I hope at least some of you have experienced & those who haven't, I hope you do too! Let me know what you think!
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Dear Diary,

          I met someone today. I know what you are going to say, "Not this again." But, yes, this again! Meeting someone new, getting to know them better than they know themselves, falling in love with them because of the silliest reasons and then winding up with a heartbreak sooner or later, again because of the silliest reasons and the vicious dating cycle continues. Nevertheless, like every time, I'll say, "I think he's THE ONE." You'll silently roll your eyes at me because this is like the 12^th THE ONE. I'll pretend to not notice when deep down even I know what I'm doing is worthless. But, at least I’ve still got this magical feeling called HOPE.

          So, about this guy & about today! I have known him since the past couple of months, but only today did we actually talk. He's the librarian at the usual City Library I visit every week. We used to exchange “hi, reissue or new issue and thanks, bye” to each other every week. But, we got to talking today & it turns out, we have a lot in common. He knows my taste in books & so when he asked me out on a date, he did so by quoting one of the characters from the book I had recently read. I thought that was cute. So, I went ahead and said yes.

          Our first dinner date was at a little place close to the beach which is usually my first date restaurant. We talked & ate & laughed. While the dinner went smoothly with each of us asking the questions which we both probably read off of a Google article ‘What to do and what not to do on the first date.” Anyway, we got to know each other a bit while cautiously avoiding the past, focussing on the present while talking about the future. But, the actual pleasant talks began once we left the restaurant. We started walking on this perfect little street; not too crowded & not too lonely. One side was a lane of bungalows with all these trees with flowers on their garden. These pink flowers hung just so perfectly that they were halfway on the street & halfway on the inside of the Bungalow garden making the lane studded with pink flowers & yellow leaves in a beautiful red carpet fashion. While on the other side of the lane there’s just a wall & across that wall, there is the beach playing the Sound of Waves for us.

          Even after being silent for a while, he didn’t ask me whether I was fine or whether there was anything bothering me. Just by looking at me, he knew that I was happy in that moment.

As we walked close to each other, our hands became the first ones to attract each other like magnets. Our hands knowingly and flirtatiously swished & touched until they finally embraced each other. It was the first time we held hands while walking on nature’s colourful carpet while listening to the waves on the other side. Soon, he decided to end the silence and asked me, “What are you thinking right now?” Without second thoughts, I answered, “It is just magical and purely blissful listening to these waves when I cannot even see them. It’s all just a one-minute action. Waves running to the shore, hitting the shore & then going back to the ocean. Then there’s another one & then another & that just continues like clockwork. What really intrigues me is the moment between the waves. The time when one wave has just reached the shore & the other one is on its way. There’s the anticipation of the new wave settling in and the happiness of the earlier wave right at the surface. I think that peaceful moment in-between is just precious. It’s like I can live in that peace my entire life. It’s like that one-minute moment of peace & solitude could last forever.”

He was the kind of guy who wouldn’t interrupt me when I was saying something with so much dreams in my eyes. I didn’t need to talk quickly in order to finish everything I had to say. I took pauses where required, I stressed on the words that needed to be stressed on. I talked about the magic of waves like I have some magic in myself & everything around me. He listened silently & he imagined everything I said. He didn’t listen to come back with a wittier response. He listened to actually understand me. So, I smiled at him after telling him what was on my mind & asked him what was on his. And somehow, even though I had begun with no expectations, he opened up too.

He said, “I suppose what waves are to you, time is to me. You see how wonderfully & also chaotically time works? We have been walking for about 25 minutes & yet it seems like only 5 minutes have gone by. I suppose when we are with someone we like time goes on quickly as every moment matters. When we are with someone we like, time seems to stop still while actually it goes by faster than otherwise. While we kept talking on the way tonight, we felt time stop while we truly unravelled what was on our minds. Isn’t it lovely, like clockwork too?” We again smiled at each other because we both knew this was something else. No first date ends up with both the people having such conversations about their deepest thoughts & wonders.

          By that time, we reached the beach. There was sand beneath our feet, stars above our heads & magic within us. We stood close facing each other. One wave had settled, the other was on its way & time stopped still. We found our one-minute of peace. Our bodies touching each other, us looking deep into each other’s eyes. With the anticipation closing in, so did the distance between us & we kissed. Our first kiss in that perfect moment of peace & standstill of time when we were magic in the middle of it all. It was a first, but it felt like none of the other firsts I ever had. It was truly magic.

Until next time,

Lost Dreams Found.

Yesterday I found this little contest on Amazon India. It's named 'Amazon Cart Story'. They had asked to write a story from three words; a mike, a diaper and a cycle. The rules were dubious as they are going to select by drawing lots. But since I hadn't written a story in a long while, I thought of writing it. It's a plain story connected by those three words. I hope you like the simplicity of it.

            Gayatri was busy in her household chores when she heard her baby wail. She went over and saw that he had pooped in his diaper. As she was changing baby Neel’s diaper, a strange feeling came across her. In her twenties, she had hated those wives who stayed at home taking care of their babies having no significant goals. She wondered how she became one of them. Sometimes, one sudden and an irrelevant thing can become something huge and haunt a person for a long time. That diaper was exactly that horrifying moment of introspection for her. The whistle from the cooker went off. She approached the kitchen trying to forget about that one moment. She knew it was still there in the back of her head and she was trying hard to ignore it. But, the harder she tried, the bigger it became.

            In her afternoon leisure time, she reminisced her younger days. She remembered the music she made. She remembered her dedication towards singing and how it was the only thing she ever dreamed of doing. Singing was like breathing for her. She tried to recollect how her passion for singing died down. How can a person change so much that it’s impossible to make out that the past and present forms are one person alone? How can one person’s priorities change so incredulously that it changes their entire life? She was lost in these thoughts as she heard the tring-tring sound of a bell from a cycle downstairs. Some girls were riding their cycles and enjoying their childhood. And Gayatri was all grown up and challenging the major decisions she had taken. As she saw those girls riding their cycles in the compound, she couldn’t help but think about ‘Cycle’; her debut album.

            Of all the names she could’ve chosen, she chose ‘Cycle’. Her favourite Albert Einstein quote was “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” A brilliant science scholar turned to a pop singer turned to a normal housewife. She was caught back in those days when she would go hours singing on her lucky mike. She even found photos of her kissing that mike and sleeping next to it. She cherished her 23-year old self giving a fabulous performance and keeping the crowd mesmerized. As she came back to the present, she just knew what she was going to do next. She listened to her album on a loop. After years of silence, she sang. She wiped the dust off her guitar and began singing in her melodious voice which had almost forgotten how to sing. Almost.

Coincidental Love. (Part II)

Read Coincidental Love. (Part I) here.

Five.

          I go to him and say, "Hey! Didn't you just get here? Why are you leaving?" He seems angry and bizarre, "I thought you didn't have a boyfriend. You needn't have to lie to me. All you pretty girls are the same, aren't you? I really thought you were my friend!" Oh, so he heard that, "Are you talking about Preet? Did you hear anything?" "I heard enough." His tone his high and he really is angry. I try in my most sweet and flirty voice, "Ohhh. Are you jealous? You really seem to be!" "Why would I be? I am not your boyfriend or lover or secret admirer! You go and have a good time with Preet!" Just as he turns to leave, I hold his hand to stop him, "Preet is my cousin who has a mental condition. He thinks I am his girlfriend. I just go along with it because it makes him happy." His hand is still in mine. He look relieved and says, "Oh. I umm..." "You were jealous mister." He has a little awkward smile. And I am holding some amusement within me. "Well maybe." He is doing his super shy thing now and I blurt out, "Akshat, would you like to go on a date with me?" I cannot believe how I got the courage to ask that question. It came as a shock to the both of us. But right after my question ended, he said, "I would like to go on a date with you." Now, we are at the party smiling at each other like some love struck teenagers.
          Tonight is our first date. The past 2 days went by slower than morning traffic. We chatted a lot, especially during the nights. Those chats were too flirty to put here. But, one can imagine. Anyway, I just couldn't wait for tonight. And, now that it is almost here, I am beyond scared. I'm going through so many feelings at once that I think I am going to explode. I have been on dates before but it was never like this! I hope these feelings just disappear and it works out. I will just be myself. I am wearing a full length purple dress which has white crochet work and a few diamond-like pieces here and there. I have my long straight hair down. I am in my white and silver pumps. My accessories consist of silver bracelet and my silver clutch.  I look really nice but whatever. Since I asked him, I decided on a nice dinner in a posh Italian restaurant. It is going to be perfect. We both meet outside the building. He is here in his car. I offered to drive but he flipped out and insisted on him driving. Men and their dignity! I get in the car. We look at each other and electricity flows between us as our eyes do their little talking and our smiles keep getting wider. He is wearing an impeccable light purple shirt paired with grey corduroy pant. He smells really good too. Such a co-incidence that we are both wearing purple! I will have a long list of coincidences if I start about it. We reach the restaurant. I have been here around 5 times and absolutely love it.

          As we enter, our eyes twinkle reflecting the glossy restaurant interiors. The hall is huge. There are chairs and tables all around the center. There is a little dancing area in the middle circle. The walls are a shade of cream. There are wooden chairs and tables matching the wooden floor. The dancing floor is white and holds a great deal of attraction.  There is a mini bar in one far end corner. At another end, the wall painted in modern art is decorated with frames and carved glass-wood art pieces. Beautiful chandeliers hanging above brighten up the place in a dim lit atmosphere and the soft music gives the place a very romantic feeling. As we approach our reserved place, Akshat pulls up my chair as a gesture of manner. And that makes me feel special. Now, our conversation actually begins. Akshat says, "You look gorgeous, Abhira. Every day you are as splendid but today there's an added charm of beauty." I can't help but smile, "Thank you. You are looking stunning." Suddenly the talkative girl is gone giving the place to a shy and quiet girl. The one which I am getting to know for the first time. He is smiling at me and wouldn't look away. I find myself doing the same to him. Oh my God! Will he stop doing that? I can actually feel myself blush! He says, "So, are we going to order or are we content just by seeing each other?" I blush even more. "Any of the two would work for me. Although, they won't let us stay here for the latter one." We are going through the menu as the waiter approaches. I can hardly concentrate on food at the moment. I will just eat my usual. I say, "I will have cacciatore and lasagna." Akshat says, "I will have the same. And some red wine." I nod a yes. Now the waiter is gone leaving us to our over-joyous selves. He says, "You know, I was surprised when you asked me out. But more I became sure that I wasn't living in some fantasy of mine." "What do you mean?" "I am the kind of guy who isn't looked at twice. And you were the first woman who approached me. Ever since I have known you, I am awed by your intelligence, sense of humour and humble nature. Despite being beautiful, you also have a heart and a brain which most people lack. And when I started to like you, I thought there was no chance you would be interested in a guy like me. So, when you asked me out, I was relieved from that fantasy." "You are one gem of a person. I just don't understand why you always under-estimate yourself and hide yourself behind a mask. And for all that's worth, I like you too. So, there was no question of me not asking you. I never thought you saw me. But, it feels good to know that you did." We are both going for the ultimate honesty then which is surprisingly great. He talks quite a lot now as compared to earlier, which means he must really like me. He says, "So, as a matter of fact, this is my first date. Have I said too much already? I have no idea about the rules. I just believe in honesty, trust and love." And love. My inner self is doing somersaults and I will have an attack if he becomes more romantic. Where was he all these years?  "That's a good policy. I think I will stick with yours." We smile at each other for what feels like a lifetime.

          Wine arrives and we make a toast to 'New Beginnings'. We keep talking. He looks intently when I am talking. He laughs his heart out when I say something funny. He looks at me when I laugh as if he is under a spell. We are enjoying a lot. This is the most relaxed, fun and romantic evening. We just go into a different world after tasting the delicious food. The dessert, Crostata was heavenly. Now is the time when he will be tested. The bill arrives. I take it because it was my idea. He begins, "I am going to pay. So, give it here." I reply, "I asked you out. Hence, I must pay." He comes back, "Look, I respect that you are an independent woman but you are attacking my dignity." I try, "How about we both pay partly?" "I'm not negotiating. Just let me pay, please." "It's either partly or nothing. I am pretty stubborn, you know?" "Oh come on! Fine! Just this time then. Agreed?" "Of course not. But let's settle that way this time." Paying partly, we are about to leave when Akshat says, "Wait. Would you like to dance with me?" I am shocked that he is ready to dance, in front of everyone. But more I am glad. He is doing this to make me happy! "I would love to." We join another couple on the center of the place. I whisper in his ears, "From that first forced dance until this one, I cannot believe how much everything has changed. And I am grateful." "Fate is playing with us and I feel like we are winning." I smile but inside I am a ballerina dancing with extra merriment. Now, we are heading back. He says, "I had a great evening Abhira. I was never this happy. I am glad that you are in my life." "It was a lovely evening because of you. I couldn't possibly be more happy." We walk upstairs in silence and reach my floor. He takes my hand and lands a delicate kiss there. I go ahead and kiss his cheek. We bid goodbye. As I am home, it's 11.15 and all I can think of is him. His expressions. His laughs. His talks. His kind gestures. His walk. His dance. His smile. Every detail of this evening is coming back to me and I feel like I am in love with Akshat!

Six.

          I know that things have gone rather fast. There are things that I don't know about him and him me. But, the feeling I have for him is so new to me. I cannot compare that against anything. And, we have our entire lives to get to know one another. Tonight is our second date. Akshat asked me out this time and I wonder how it will enfold. I am wearing a nice red kurta and leggings. Usually I wouldn't have worn this but he said he liked me better this way. And I like it this way as well. In fact, he said that I look more elegant in a kurta, which is the exact word I had used! There goes another item in the list of co-incidences. So, we are meeting at 6 pm. Since our little story has gone faster than I anticipated, I am feeling very weird. I don't want it to be over but I also don't want it to be a hoax. I trust him but you may never know what guys are hiding. But, I am not going to let the circumstances bother me. This was meant to happen. And I as I see Akshat wearing a red T-shirt, I am surer about our destiny. He asks, "Do you trust me?" "I trust you." "Now, today we are going walking. It's nothing like that hotel, but I'm sure you will like it. Since it is a surprise, I'm going to blindfold you, okay?" "Well, how will I see then if we are walking? What if the people think you are kidnapping me?" We both laugh at that but it was a sincere question. He replies, "Don't worry. It is quite near." "Alright then!" This is bringing back all the negative vibes. I cannot see anything and I have also lost the sense of direction after that one left and one right. He says, "We are almost there. We are now going upstairs in an elevator." The fact that he is providing a commentary makes me feel safer. We have reached now, I think.
          He is slowly removing the blindfold. I notice that we are standing on our building's terrace! What? He notices my confusion and says, "Turn around." As I do, I am overwhelmed by the view. There is the terrific view of the Bandra sea face. There are lady musicians playing music at one side. There is a chef preparing barbecue on another side. There is a comfortable bed and champagne at the end. There are flower vases decorating the place. Thankfully, there are a couple of non-noisy fans too. It's like a little picnic.  As I realize my hands cupped my mouth all this time, I finally manage to say, "This is incredible! I am impressed Mr. Akshat!" He might have felt all those insecure feelings too. That's why he chose our own building's terrace and indulged other people. And I am so beyond words. He says, "Now, let's sit here and enjoy the beautiful sunset." Since our building is 25 floors, the view from here is perfect. We drink champagne while watching the sun set. We are quieter than usual. He finally says, "Are you okay? You haven't said much since we got here." "I am just.. I feel really special. No one has ever done such a lovely thing for me. You are so great to make me feel this way." He takes my hand and says, "I am the happiest now. And you are special. To me you are." I could almost cry. "Now, would you like to eat?" I almost forgot about that part. We eat some herb potato salad, marinated grilled chicken and blueberry pie. He must have got the best chef in the whole world because this food is so appetizing that I could eat it every day. That pie was exquisite! After eating, it's almost 8.30 now. I ask him, "Would you like to dance?" He smiles and we enjoy our third dance together. We are alone now. It's only 9 pm. He says, "Now, the best part of the evening." He takes me to bed. We have our hands entwined. He lies down on his back and asks me to do the same. He says smilingly, "Don't look at me. Look above." He tilts my chin and my eyes envision the beauty of all the stars. I mutter, "Wow! This is so ethereal." "Shhh. Let it sink into you." We both are lost in gazing at the starry night. Right this moment, life is perfect. After a lot of time has passed by, I silently say, "You may have been alone all your life, but you are certainly a romantic at heart. I should thank God for saving you for me." As we are looking at each other, he says, "Maybe he was." Our shoulders are touching each other. Our hands are entwined and soon our lips follow suit. Our first kiss is one of love, passion and wanting. It feels like we were away for a lifetime and now we are one. It feels so meant to be. After our long kiss he says, "I am in love with you, Abhira. Ever since I met you, it's been a bliss. Being with you feels more natural and perfect with every passing day. It feels forever." I'm enthralled by his romance. He is in love with me and I'm so shocked by his directness that I'm stupefied. We are still looking at each other when I finally say, "Akshat, you are the one person with whom I feel like myself. I am under some magic spell when I'm with you. And I love you." With that, our date ends and we head back to our homes. There is the traditional stairwell silence but this time it's good. We keep smiling and our hands never leave the embrace.

Seven.

          After 2 months of being with Akshat, our love has only grown, if that's even possible. We see each other every day. We went on a shopping date yesterday and splurged a lot. I bought him really clever shirts for work. He bought me pretty kurtas and a handbag. My job is going great. The readers love my column; 'Common Man Columnist' and I enjoy every bit of it.  My parents are happy about Akshat. His parents are happy with me. Meera has become a good friend of mine. So in short, everything is perfect. Today, my most awaited article is going to be published. For the first time, I got an entire page in Fashion Classics. I have a day off today so I'm going to adore that article a lot. Then I will start reading 'PS:I Love You'. Akshat gifted me this and has practically forced me to read it. Well, it's 8 am and I have just got the papers. I directly go to the magazine. I scan all the pages twice. To my disbelief, I cannot find my article! What the hell is this! I call my boss, "Hi Fenil. I was wondering why my article was not published in today's magazine?" She replies, "Oh yes. We are extremely sorry. It was brilliant but it was an entire page. And we had to publish Malini's." Malini is the one who is the most famous fashion journalist. Every company wants her. Thus, they keep on publishing her articles every week so she won't leave. I reply, "That is really not fair, you know?" "I know. But you know how it works. Maybe we will publish yours next week!"
         A week goes by. Even today my article is nowhere to be seen. I am fuming with anger. I am with Akshat at his home at the moment. I convey him what had happened. "I am so angry right now. Why does there have to be corruption everywhere? I am sick of these corporate cold wars. I might as well just quit that job and set up my own publishing house. Who do these people think they are?" Akshat as calm as ever says, "Try to relax Abhira." "How can I relax after all this? How can you be so calm?" "Because being short tempered is not going to solve any problems." "Oh just forget it! I am leaving!" "That's what you always do, don't you? Leave?" "What?" "Whenever the situation doesn't go your way, you just pack up and leave. You ran away to Switzerland when you were fired. Over there, you ran away from me because it was impossible of anything happening between us. You keep saying 'whatever' always. You always do this! You always shut off the people in your life whenever you wish!" "Oh please! Don't make this about me running away! If that's what you think about me, then I don't have anything to say to you.  And what about you, huh? You say that I shut people out but you never even let them in! You don't know what intimacy is and if you keep behaving like that, then you will be all alone one day!" I storm out as he says, "You are doing it again." I reach home. I don't understand how he can say such horrendous things about me. Is that what he thinks I am? A quitter? Instead of staying with me and consoling me he decided to pull up a fight? What is his problem? Whatever. No! Not whatever! Ughh!
          It has been a month I haven't talked to Akshat. I thought about what he said, a lot. I even asked my parents. They said the same thing but in a much more caring and understanding manner. My friends also said the same! I don't understand why didn't any of them just tell me earlier. I wouldn't have quit on them. But, after so much of introspection, I have decided to change myself. I mean, whatever Akshat pointed out was not wrong. His way of conveying was but the facts stay as they are. Firstly, I spent a lot of time thinking. Then, I spent a lot of time thinking about what to talk with Akshat. I saw him in the society a couple of days back. And we decided to ignore the existence of the other. Maybe we both are going through the same process, I hope. The last month was drastic. At work, eventually I was told to continue with my usual column rather having some fancy one page article. So, all my efforts on the previous one were a waste. At home, mom and dad keep asking me about Akshat. And there is radio silence from Akshat. Just a month back, I can recall myself being the happiest butterfly on this planet. And now my condition is worse than a moth. I just want this phase to be over. I just want to talk to Akshat and clear the air. What must he be thinking? Will he talk to me? I hope he doesn't hate me. I hope this is not the end of us. These series of unanswerable questions that render me sleepless at nights. Tonight is one such night. My parents are off on a holiday. This home is my moaning place. I'm watching 'Serendipity', eating ice cream and crying over the perfectness of that love story and imperfectness of mine! My phone rings and I cannot even see the name through the tears so I just pick it up trying not to sound like I'm crying. "Hello." "Hi." "Who is this?" "I am Akshat. You deleted my number already?" What? Did he say Akshat? I try to collect myself and say, "Oh hii! No, I didn't see the name actually. How are you?" "I'm not so good. We should meet and talk." "Oh yes. We should." "Can I come over?" "Okay." So, this really happened. I have to clear up. Oh God! My eyes are so messed up. He will know. There goes the bell.
          Here he comes with evident sadness on his face. "I am sorry", we both say at the same time. I begin, "Please let me say first. I thought a lot about what you said. Maybe I'm a runner. That's what I always do. I never realized it until you pointed it out to me. But, I'm going to improve myself. And our fight incidence also had me wondering about us. We have been going really fast in this relationship. We love each other but do we really know each other? I feel like I don't know the real you. I know the things you have told me but we should share that bond where we know what the other is thinking." "I should not have gone off on you like that. I was just pointing out the realm of the whole thing. While doing that I forgot to check in about your feelings. And I agree with what you said. I don't let many people in my life. But when I do, it becomes quite hard for me to share every aspect of my life with them. And that's where I went wrong. I never let you in. You were my first girlfriend. Maybe I was rigid. We don't know each other's deepest souls. We should make an effort to really understand each other on a whole different level." "I know. We could start right now?" "Okay. Well, here's one thing. I am more reserved than you think. And even though it is difficult, I love being alone. It's like my sacred haven." "Okay. That's not bad. Spending time with your own self really lets you understand yourself in a much better way. I have a problem where I run away from things." I give a little smile. He smiles too. We discussed so many relevant matters and shared some of our deepest secrets. It really helped a lot to get a whole new dimension of Akshat. Now, I can surely say that I know him better. Earlier, we only used to talk about the things that are related us. (Like our jobs, news, families etc.) But, today we talked about the things that relate us and the ones within us. (Like our feelings, opinions, thoughts etc.) He says, "I thought girls only watched romantic movies, ate ice cream and cried only in films!" I reply, "Oh shut up! I was crying because of the movie." "Oh yeah? okay.", he says in his funny tone. We watched the whole movie again. We kissed before he left. And now I feel so light and free. He might not be the guy who everyone loves to have around. But he is definitely my guy. And I cannot be more happy.

Eight.

          After 2 years since we first met, we are now going to his beach house. We reach there by 8 pm. We get inside and it's beautiful. It gives me the vintage feeling. Soon, after getting refreshed, we take a walk outside. As soon as I am out facing the ocean, I see every person there I have known in my life. There is my family, friends and cousins. There are at least 100 people here! What is happening? Akshat comes towards me. He looks so handsome in his white shirt and blue jeans. He is having a smile on his face which seems like it will never fade away. He is coming to me. Is he going to do what I think he is going to do? He gets down on one knee. With a serious expression of warmth, love and surety, he asks, "Abhira, would you like to dance with me forever? Will you marry me?" and pulls out a gorgeous ring! There are fireworks above the beach. I am so mesmerized by this whole setting that I feel like a princess. I guess I am and he is my prince. Before his lovely expression chances, I say out loud. "Yes! Akshat, I love you!" He replies, "I love you too, darling." We hug each other for what feels like forever. This is perfect and I am on top of the world!!

          Akshat is now giving a sort of a speech, "Our story is one which is made by destiny. As much as I couldn't believe in it before I met Abhira, I do now. We have been together for quite some time now. Until today our journey was one with many surprises and shocks. Now as I imagine my life ahead, I am not at all scared of married life. As I look further, I'm sure my amazing, humorous and happy Abhira will be there with me throughout my life. Abhira, you're the one person without whom my life is incomplete. I promise to love you and protect you. I promise that I will always love you." My eyes are wet now and I'm hardly able to say anything. I go near him and embrace him in a tight hug awaiting our future together.

[This is my first love story. Thank you all for reading it. A special thank you to my friend, Vaishnavi Upadhyaya, for helping me throughout the process. If it weren't for her technical skills, re-reading of this story many times and valuable suggestions, I'd still be stuck halfway. Also, the credits of the original images goes to their creators.]

Coincidental Love. (Part I)

One.
  

          "You are fired!", my boss yells in front of the entire staff. I am not going to beg for my job. He is firing me for a mistake as tiny as an ant. Whatever. I have to get the hell out of this office with the little dignity that is left. As I am storming out of the building, I feel a heap of rage building up within me. After serving for 8 years in that company, he just fired me. How is anyone supposed to deal with it? I need to get away. From this office. From home. From everything.
          After 2 days of this humiliating event, I am leaving for a trip to Switzerland. I know, it seems impossible given that I am currently unemployed. But that job gave me quite a lot to save up on. So, the past week in Switzerland was amazing. It felt like the beginning of a fresh start. Well, today is my last day in Switzerland. I hope they have something exciting. Touring and sightseeing was fun, but can't they just keep one disco night? As I pick up the phone, I am partly delighted and partly hopeful. "Hello?" There is a male's voice from the other side. He goes off in his practised speech, "Hello ma'am, I believe today is the last day that your travel group is staying with us?" "Yes, that is correct." "Well, on behalf of our resort, we have a little surprise party for you all tonight." Oh, now we are talking! "It begins at 7 pm. All the other tourists are coming. I hope you will join us too." "Oh, that's very nice of you. I'll surely be there. Thank you." So, finally something real fun!

          I start dressing up. It has to be a seriously cool party given the posh resort. I decide on wearing a cocktail dress paired with a lovely scarf and my favourite black heels. That's quite good. I hope I am not looking fat in this! Anyway, it is too late to change. As soon as I arrive at the open hall, I'm stunned. The place is made up so perfectly. The corner garden is decorated. There are white curtains flowing with the cool breeze. There are flowers and welcome drinks. Very neat. However, there are all strangers here. Is there anyone my age even!? Oh, there is a guy. He is Indian! Maybe I could talk to him. I introduce, "Hey. My name is Abhira, from Mumbai." This guy is either really shy or very preoccupied. After a blank pause, he responds, "Hello. I'm Akshat. Manager of the resort. How may I help you?" Oh well done. You found the manager to chat with. That too, a shy one. A handsome and shy one. "Oh right. So, what is the theme of this party?" "Yes. It is about to start. Why don't you take a seat and enjoy yourself?" Off he goes acting like I am some alien. "Sure." I reply after him. At least he has a good smile. So, Akshat, the manager is conducting this party himself. Interesting. Now he seems much more relaxed. "Hello everyone! Luxury Tower Resort are very pleased to have you all here. This is our way of saying thank you for choosing us. We are going to play a game here. I know. I know. It s not a children's birthday party. But, we have had a good experience with past clients with this game. So, these two guys are going to hand over a number card to you all. There are two of each kind. So, when the music begins, you have to find the person having the same number and begin dancing! Since many of you don't know each other, this is a fun way of connecting with others!" Okay, this is exactly what we did on our graduation farewell. It's so old school! He looks nice up there, capturing the show. We share an almost electric look. And, he looks away. Whatever. "So, D'Souza ma'am what did you get?" A lady in the front row meekly replies, "5" "So, D'Souza ma'am here has a 5. Who's her dance partner?" Let them just get along with this game. I'm not going to dance with some old uncle. Oh, why are they all asking him to be a part of it? He stands tall talking swiftly in his cold and catchy voice, "Okay, okay. I will accompany you all then. I have number 37." To my astonishment, I say a little too fast, "I have a 37 too!" I can bet he is already regretting it. His eyes give everything away. Covering up his act, he begins, "Oh, okay then. Can we have some music?" He can talk to an audience so nicely then why can't he talk to one person face to face! It is usually the other way round. Whatever. I don't think he's going to come here, anyway. Everyone starts dancing. It seems pleasurable. Even those old aunties and uncles are dancing with random people. No way I'm standing here like a fool. Before my brain can react, my feet go over to Akshat and I start talking, "Hi again Akshat! Would you like to dance? Everyone is enjoying themselves!" With an awkward smile, he confesses, "Oh hey. Those aunties just dragged me. I can't really dance in this setting." I was not going to give up. "Well, I bet they have an eye on you. If you leave now, they will just get you back again." Now he is slightly turning to look at them from the corner of his eye. Timing! They see and wave at him. I can hardly control my laugh. "Well, okay then Miss Abhira.", he says, like he is being thrown into prison. Finally, we are dancing! Thank goodness. "So, how do you like working here? Don't you miss home?" God, he has a really good body. He is saying, breaking the chain of my random thoughts, "It's good here. Sure, I miss my family. But have to earn a living." "Oh, of course." I am an independent 29 year old single woman. And being the kind of outgoing and charming person I am, I have to do better! What is it about his gaze that renders me speechless? I try, "You look quite younger to be the head manager at a resort."This is just a branch which makes me only a Branch Manager. And I am actually older than I look." So many words, I am impressed. He still has that sorry face though. Does he hate me for making him dance? Probably, he does. "So, for a beautiful woman like you, isn't it weird to travel alone?" Oh, he can talk then. Did he just say beautiful? Goosebumps. He doesn't hate me then. I reply casually, "Oh, I'm just on a break from my busy life." "Okay. That's a slow song coming up. Do you want to..?" Before he finishes his sentence, I jump in, "Sure. I love to dance actually. I hope you don't have a problem?" If you put people on a spot like that, they can never say no. It's a trick I always use and it works! We begin to dance. At least, he knows where to place his hands while slow dancing. Whatever. This silence is really awkward. Akshat seems like a really introverted person. Or maybe it's the silence that usually follows in such dancing. It's good that we are not talking. It almost feels romantic, this way. He moves so smoothly. He is holding me like a flower. He is just so nice. What am I thinking! There's no chance Abhira! Just, stop over thinking. Collecting my thoughts, I say, "So, that's the end of the song. Thanks for the dance. I have to go now." "Um, bye.", he says. I smile weakly and leave. That was real smooth, you weirdo, I say to myself. I know I shouldn't have left like that but I had no choice. I had to.

          That was a very intimidating evening. Why am I feeling like my heart is on the sleeves for this guy. I don't even know him. This is crazy. He was just so kind and.. Shut up! Stop thinking about it. Such a gentleman. Okay, I'm sleeping. Whatever.

Two.

          Leaving behind that wonderful trip and my dreams about the mysterious guy, Akshat, I am now in Mumbai filling up job applications and hoping someone would take me. To tell you the truth, I write the best fashion analysis. It's not my fault that some celebrities feel shameful. They should actually be shameful wearing those hideous outfits! Anyway, I have applied for three top publishing houses. The interviews are next week which gives me a few days to chill. So, today I am just sitting by the window. As I live on the third floor, I can watch the people downstairs. It's a sunny March day. I love to just observe the kids playing and fighting. The house-wives doing grocery shopping and OH MY GOD. Is that? How can it be? Am I hallucinating? That is Akshat! Live in the flesh! And he looks as good as ever. Could he be visiting someone? But that sounds stupid. Why on earth would he come all the way from Switzerland to visit someone? I have to find out. I am not going to be creepy or desperate. Maybe I will just ask Peter uncle, who is the manager. "Hello Peter uncle! Abhira Khanna speaking. How are you doing? How is auntie?" He replies, "Hello beta, we are doing good. How come you called? Any problems?" Might as well avoid all the small talk then. "Actually yes. I was wondering if any new people are coming in the society? I thought there were no vacant flats?" "Oh yes yes. A family has shifted yesterday. Where the Karandikars stayed?" "Oh okay. I thought I saw some unknown faces today. So, who are these people?" "There's a working man, his mother and sister. Why do you ask anyway?" Oh crap. Think about an answer! "Oh nothing. I was just curious." I cannot ask their names now, at all. He is saying, "Okay. They seem to be well off. The guy is promoted as the head manager in the Luxury Tower Resort!" As those words reached my ears, I was on a whole different planet. This unbelievable news is leaving me in paced heartbeats. This is really weird though. Last week, he was miles away and now he's here, in my building! What is life? I almost forgot I was on the phone. "You there beta?" "Yes. That's good to know." "I have to hang up now. Come at home sometime, okay? Bye." "Sure uncle. Goodbye." Well, now this is something that never usually happens. Last week I met a guy, who was handsome, qualified and almost miles away. And today, he is here. What were the chances of him getting promoted to India, let alone Mumbai? What were the chances of him living in Bandra, let alone in my society! This is all too exciting and also weird for me!

          The past few days were a blaze. Today is Wednesday. I just gave the third interview. All were good but I really hope I get a job in the second one, Mumbai Classics. They have the best fashion journalists working for them. Their Fashion Classics is indeed the best magazine trending these days. Well, right now I am heading five floors above me, where apparently Akshat has moved in. Finally I decided to give them some pancakes as a neighbourly gesture. I ring the bell with more adrenaline than I had when I was dancing with him. Ting-tong. The door is opening as are my hopes. To my dissatisfaction, it is his mother. "Hello! I am Abhira Khanna. I live here on the 3rd floor. I thought I would bring up something for you guys." "Oh hello. My name is Supriya Chawla. Come in, come in. The house is a mess, as you will see." She takes the pancakes and welcomes me inside. "That's natural after all." She seems really sweet and very motherly. She is wearing a cotton punjabi dress. She always has a smile on her face. I begin, "So, where are you from? Who all are there in your family?" She speaks, "I am only a house-wife. My husband works in Chennai which is where I lived with Meera, my daughter. My son, Akshat..." My heart skips a beat as I finally hear his name. I may be reacting too much but whatever."
"...just got promoted as the head manager at Luxury Tower Resort. I am joining him for a few months until he settles. Then I will be back and forth from here and Chennai. My daughter Meera is a graduate. She will start working now. And, tell me about you!" "I am currently searching for a job. I am a fashion analyst. I used to work for Indian Publishers. I live here with my parents, Charu and Hemant. My mother works in the bank down the corner and my father is a stock broker." "That's impressive. I will surely ask you before dressing up for events." We share a laugh. It's fun getting to know her and everything but I would rather if it was Akshat. "So, where are your children?” I ask suddenly. "You just missed Akshat actually. He will be back soon though. Meera is also out." "Okay, it was really nice meeting you. I hope you like the pancakes. And do visit us. I will get going now." "Okay dear. Thanks for stopping by." So apart from the fact that it's confirmed it's him, there was no use going. As I climb down the stairs, I almost bump into a man. It's Akshat! Our stunned faces are too revealing. The look on his face is so turbulent. His face shows signs of surprise, fear and even happiness. He starts talking, "Oh my God. Abhira, right? This is such a co-incidence. What are you doing here?" I smile and reply, "Well, I live here. How about yourself?" We shake hands. A firm handshake. That's a good sign. "I just shifted here last week. It's really good to see you again. Who would have thought?" He seems like a different person altogether with the talking and all that extra hand gestures. "I know. Well, I just met your sweet mother. Gave some pancakes." "Oh thanks. I have to go now but we will meet soon? Bye." "Sure. Goodbye." He was actually happy to see me. I wonder what he feels about this whole situation. As I reach home, I casually check my laptop. There is an e-mail from Mumbai Classics. "Yes! I got it." My mom comes in, "What's the matter?" "Mom! I got the job I wanted! This is amazing!" "Congratulations darling. I knew you would get it." The day just got so much better.

Three.

          Today is the first day of my job and I'm thrilled. I'm wearing the perfect work outfit. A suit and trousers with my formal heels. For a fashion analyst, dressing up is more important than for others. If there's even a tiny f aux pas, then you're out. So far my day was good. My boss, Ms. Fenil introduced me to my work and also to the other members. Right now I'm working on this article for how can common man dress up in monsoons. I finally feel like I belong here. By the way, I didn't see Akshat since our last staircase meeting which lasted for 2 minutes. There's a function in the society today so I'm hoping against hope that I'll see him. For this function, I'm wearing a light blue kurta with leggings and long earrings. I always prefer wearing kurtas to T-shirts. It's just more elegant. Anyway, Akshat is here. And he is coming straight towards me! He begins, "Hi Abhira. How are you doing? I really apologise for my behaviour at the resort. I just organise such events. That was the first one I actually had to become a part of. I know I acted weirdly. Firstly, I'm an introvert. Secondly, I got the chance to dance with a beautiful lady like you. So, I was befuddled." He's talking and talking which is so good. I say, "I suppose that's alright. I'll forgive you only if you dance with me again tonight." Now his expression is more tensed. I start laughing, "Relax Akshat. I'm only joking!" He is such an innocent fellow. "You got me there. So you're my first friend here. I don't know anyone except Mr. Peter." "We're friends then? Good to know. These people are really friendly once you get to know them. Of course, not all of them though. How about I introduce you to some of my childhood friends?" "Okay. Maybe after sometime." "You are one mysterious person. Let's go!" I take him to meet my five pals. He seemed really uncomfortable but they didn't notice it, I hope. After that little talk, we were on our own. He said, "I'm glad you came to my resort and I'm glad I found you here again." My heart just melted right there. Once he gets comfortable around people, then he opens up. He's like a treasure. Mysterious from the outside. Worthy from the inside. The evening was quite fun. Now I know 5 more things about him:

1. His age is 32.

2. He is single.

3. His favourite book is 'PS: I Love You'.

4. He is extremely hot.

5. He is my friend.

I thought he was like 28 or 29. He definitely looks younger. And I also knew he was single because he had no wedding ring and his mother didn't mention it either. I'm just saying.

          Now-a-days, we text all the time. He is quite great at it actually. In the past month we have talked about almost everything. The important stuff as well as random rants. We also had one of those chats where we kept asking "why?" to everything. Now, I'm going for the real talk.

Me: So, don't you have a girlfriend?

Akshat: No. I don't. Do you have a boyfriend?

Me: I don't either.

Akshat: You don't have to lie just to make me feel better.

Me: I really don't have a boyfriend.

Akshat: Oh. It's totally difficult to believe that.

Me: Why so?

Akshat: Okay, if you must know. You're the most beautiful, immaculate and ambitious woman I've ever met. You have a ravishing personality. Your thoughts are vibrant and refreshing. There's no way any men aren't interested in such an astounding person.

(I. Am. In. The. Ninth. Heaven.

Do men even say such wonderful things these days? I am absolutely stunned by how many layers Akshat has.)

Me: Thank you for saying all those kind words but that doesn't change the fact that I'm still single. As we are on the topic, you are also a handsome man. Your talks are deep and insightful. It's like I'm talking to a 50 year old mature person. Why isn't anyone with you?

Akshat: Because I'm not handsome. I'm shy. You know what? I have never had a girlfriend! That's how lonely and secluded person I am.

Me: Now you're joking. I cannot believe that.

Akshat: Ha Ha. You can laugh. It's okay. Another failure with women.

Me: Don't be like that. Anyone would be lucky to have you.

Akshat: Thanks. I have to sleep now. I'm glad you're there for me. And know that I'll always be there for you.

Me: You're the most amazing friend, Akshat. Good night.

Four.

         Today is Sunday. I am trying to write some more articles before they are allocated to me. Door bell rings. Who could possibly be there at 4 pm on a Sunday afternoon! I open the door and there is him, Akshat. He looks so sexy when he wears casuals. I let him in. This is actually the first time he has come home. I introduce him to my parents. After the usual conversation of getting to know each other, he is now talking to me. "Hey, I was wondering if you are free." Is he going to ask me out? I cannot stop.. "Actually I need a favor for my sister.." Oh. So not a date. "Sure. How can I help?" He is saying, "She has this big party tonight with her office people and she needs the perfect outfit. So you were the first person that came to my mind. There's hardly any time to go shopping. Maybe you can help her someway? Can you come home now?" "Well, okay." As we are climbing up the stairs, we hardly talk. This stairwell silence is so funny at times. "Hey Meera! Congratulations on your job! Accountancy must be really your field then! Let's get started! Can you show me your wardrobe if that's okay? Maybe I can come up with something." "Thanks a lot for helping out. Sure. You do whatever you want. There's nothing party-like in there so it's all up to you." I can see she is hoping a lot from me and it really feels good. I take out a black chiffon top with a beaded collar. Then there is a nice white skirt she has. So, I ask her to put that on. Then, I quickly get the sparkly silver belt of mine to pair it up with the outfit. I ask her to wear the silver jacket which is quite the designer. For footwear, I recommend her the red pumps. After having the outfit sorted, I apply her some make-up. Now, she is ready. "This is fantastic, Abhira. Thanks so much!! I owe you one." I can feel her happiness glow from her face. She is a really pretty girl and now she looks like a classy woman. "Not a problem darling. Call me up whenever you need any help! Don't hesitate." Akshat and I stay at his home for a while. His mother is not there. He says, "You made her at least half as beautiful as yourself. Thanks a lot." "Mr. Akshat, you seem a lot flirty these days." "What? Why do people always think that? I am just overly sweet!" "Alright Mr. Sweet! I have a party at my place on Friday and you are invited. You can make it right?" "Thanks. Of course, I will." We both just sit for some time saying nothing, sometimes looking at each other, smiling and then I leave. Why can't we just admit that we like each other? Why is everything so hard? I thought 2 mature people could do better than this.

          Tonight is party night! I am really excited as Akshat will be here. Also, I haven't seen my college friends and cousins in a long time. Everyone is almost here except for Akshat. The bell rings. By the time, I am sitting with my sweetheart, Preet. He is saying, "I love you so much. It's been 2 years since we are together. You are the best girlfriend!" I smile and hug him. From the corner of my eye, I watch Akshat leaving.

Read Coincidental Love. (Part II) here.

Passionate Prodigies.

Chapter 1

          In the biggest auditorium in the city of Delhi, hundreds of people gave a standing ovation and wouldn't stop clapping. The child on stage was a young girl of 12, Samaira Sharma, who had given a splendid dance performance of contemporary art form. Samaira started dancing at a tender age of 4 years. Her parents Ram and Kavita saw her talent and encouraged her. Where businessman Ram provided financial aid, home-maker Kavita gave her daughter all the motivation she needed. Since the past 7-8 years, Samaira's talent was recognized all over the nation.

          In another part of India, in Chennai, another young girl, Deepika Nayar, aged 9 was making remarkable achievements in the field of Bharatnatyam dance form since 2 years. Her family comprised of only her elder brother, Dakshay. Her parents had died in a factory blast. Her brother supported her in all the walks of life. He had a decent job and earned satisfactorily to support them both.

          In the slums of Mumbai, Gayatri Patil was yet another girl who excelled at Lavani and Bollywood dance forms. Her parents Dinkar and Shashi were stunned when they found out that there was a child prodigy hidden in their daughter. At the age of 7, having danced for 2 years, Gayatri was a girl with abundant talent but no money. She had won some of the local competitions but those weren't going to be significant.

          After a week, Mr. Mehra who was a successful dancer started a search for young talent all over India pursuing a variety of dance forms. Within a matter of time, a team was formed inclusive of Samaira, Deepika and Gayatri. Mr. Mehra was aware of the diffferent dance forms they knew. He was going to make it an advantage rather than a barrier. Days passed by. It was quite difficult for them to adjust with each other. Samaira, the rich spoiled brat couldn't deal with them at first. The youngest, Gayatri, thought she was too much. Deepika struck a friendship with both of them though. The three of them wouldn't have grown so close if it weren't for Deepika. She was the common thread earlier but later on, they all became great friends. Along with Mr. Mehra, they started analyzing each other's dances, gave suggestions and shared the areas for improvement. After weeks of hard work, it was time to show the world what they possessed. Mr. Mehra enrolled their names in a national competition. They kept on winning; preliminary rounds, quarters, semis and then the finals. They won that competition. Individually, they were perfect but as a group, they were phenominal. They were the first ones to forge three dance forms in one act. It was a treat to watch them dance, the judge had said. The next 2 years were witnessed by increasing growth and a line of successes. It was 2015, they had aged. Child prodigies are not forever but there were no signs as to their slowing talent. They were on a roll.

          Gayatri said, "Isn't it amazing? Three child prodigies coming together to form the best dance group!" Samaira began, "That's right. We're achieving milestones that no one has achieved before. We are the next big thing." Deepika checked in, "If anyone of us goes off, it'll be you, Samaira! Fly as much as you wish but keep your feet on the ground! We achieved so much. The last thing we need is bad publicity." Samaira squeaked, "Yes, yes. Nothing is going to happen to us. Successes are going to come our way like they always did. We are rooted in the industry now and we have to continue giving our best." Gayatri talked, "That's true. Let's start preparing for the next event. It's going to be an honor to be performing in front of the Prime Minister and receiving an award by him!"

Chapter 2

          On a Saturday evening, the event was to start. The three girls' families were there to view their daughters dance. It was a moment of pride and delusional happiness. Samaira, Deepika and Gayatri had their performance at the beginning. The anxiety was building up within them, like it always did. They were dolled up and ready to dance. An elated Gayatri began, "Girls, this is the most important dance of our lives. How excited are you!?" Deepika said, "I can't wait to go out there and dance my heart out! This is so thrilling." Samaira spoke with zeal, "This is really unbelievable. It's a vital event for us.  Now, we are going to give our best performance today. I can feel it! Let's go, team!!" It was time. They were on stage. The crowd was a vast expanse as far as they could see. It was usual for them now. The music started and so did their feet. The PM was astounded by their talent. As their dance had reached due course, something unusual happened. The beady lace from Gayatri's skirt went loose. It fell off dragging her skirt with it, leaving her partly exposed. Samaira immediately went to cover her. Deepika, unaware, kept dancing there. She slipped over the beads and fell hard on the stage, damaging her back. Samaira and Gayatri were too shocked to respond. Both teary-eyed girls went to help Deepika, who was in a puddle of tears. Embarrassed, they left the stage from the back exit. There was silence in the changing room. It all happened so unexpectedly quick that there was no time to react. It was their first ever failure.

          Gayatri was furious, "How did it happen? We had checked everything so many times! How did it even happen? Why would such a horrible thing happen to me?" Deepika said, "It totally sucks. Firstly, I was devastated after I fell. And then, I saw you like that. I mean, how on earth would it have happened?" Samaira started consoling them, "It wasn't our fault. The stupid designer is to be blamed. Mr. Mehra is going to fire him. Let's just go to the room and rest." However, after some time, they had to go up there, in front of thousands of people to accept their award. After such a performance it seemed absolutely silly to accept an award, that too by such an important person. They almost didn't want to go after all the humiliation but it was going to be handed by the Prime Minister himself. After a lot of badgering from Mr. Mehra and their family, they decided to accept it.

          Their names were called on stage. Even a joke was made at their expense, which belittled them further. They accepted the award. The PM said, "Congratulations and don't let little incidents bother you." That made them feel better. Just when they were about to leave the podium, there was a gun shot! The bullet hit Samaira by the arm, leaving her injured. Everyone was terrified. There was a lot of choas and hustle bustle within the crowd.  The bodyguards came to the rescue. PM was taken to a safe place and the girls were given protection. No sooner than they were inside, their parents rushed inside along with a doctor. Thankfully, there was one present in the audience. Samaira was unconscious by the time. The doctor removed the bullet and put on bandage. It was not a life threatening wound, but it caused a tremendous shock to all of them. The girls weren't capable to speak nor were their folks. After all, it isn't something that happens everyday! Apparently, the gun was fired by some drunk lunatic who was arrested by the police later on.

          The next day, everything felt disastrous. Not only was their mishap viral but so was the shooting. It was impossible to ignore it. Samaira was not taken to the hospital as it was not a fatal wound. But, she was definitely in pain. The moment they woke up, they saw the news flash on their mobiles, television and the newspapers. It broke them. It wasn't something they had to deal with earlier. This was their first failure and it injured them deeply. They met each other every day but outside of the studio. The outgoing Samaira started becoming quieter. Gayatri always wore too many clothes. Deepika glanced at laughing passers-by always wondering they were laughing at her. They gave up on dancing for a couple of weeks. It was just impossible, under the circumstances, to even think about a competition.

Chapter 3

           2 months went by. The restless girls finally decided to start dancing again. They began preparing for another show to be held for the Police Department. It was around 15 days away. Gradually, the day of show arrived. Samaira, Deepika and Gayatri had practiced well. Right before the moment they were called up on stage, Samaira spoke up, "I'm afraid. I have never been afraid of performing but now all I can think of is that those people are going to laugh at us. Or shoot us." Deepika said, "Try to relax. You can imagine my fear then. There's a reason why I'm wearing clothes from top to bottom!" Gayatri told them, "At least you two remember the moves! I am going to blank out and become a national joke. Again!" They went on the stage as their name was called. After 7 minutes of the performance, they were relieved. They felt a sense of comfort that it was over.

         The level of their performance sank faster and deeper. The series of failures continued. Before every dance, they prayed that they won't screw up. After every dance, there was a relief that they didn't. They didn't know how these feelings changed so much. The year was the worst one they had. After years of laurels and achievements, there was a steep way downhill. It wasn't even a fluctuating graph. It was a "V" turned upside down. Was this going to happen to them? Was it the end of the prodigies? Or was it just a slump? Was their talent going off like a leak in the water tanker? One day, Ram, Kavita, Dinkar, Shashi and Dakshay met with Mr. Mehra. They explained to them how their girls were broken. They were even thinking about quitting altogether. They shared all their worries with them. None of them wanted them to quit dancing. Mr. Mehra promised them that he will help. He promised them that he would do his best to bring the girls on top of the game.

          After two days, Mr. Mehra met up with his three prodigies and decided to take them to a music show. It was a delightful musical evening with four musicians. A lady was singing. Two other men were on the harmonium and flute respectively. And a young boy was on the tabla. The music was so soothing. Their devotion shone out so purely. The way the woman closed her eyes, had a bit of a frown of concentration and the way her hand was raised up to depict the high note. Her dedication shone brightly from her expressions. It was almost magical. When the show ended, Mr. Mehra asked the girls, "Did you like the show?" All the three nodded yes. He then began, "Did you notice anything among them?" They were surprised by the question. They had scarce knowledge of music then what were they going to notice? Whether she was off-tone? Looking at their confused faces, he explained to them, "Those artists were enjoying themselves. They weren't performing for the audience. They were doing it because they found themselves while doing it. Singing, for them, is their life and audience is only a secondary factor. Do you understand what I'm trying to say?" Their faces were blank. Deepika spoke up, "Are you saying we could learn something from them?" He nodded, "Yes, you're right. Samaira, after 10 years of success, you're now doubting yourself. Deepika, after 6 years of proving yourself in this field, you're limiting your capabilities. And Gayatri, after 5 years of constant practice, you feel like you're not good enough. Before the start of your failures, did you ever bother about anything else? You just wanted to dance! That was something you did because it gave you joy. It was a feeling of freedom. Dancing meant everything to you. But after that show, you have started to act so differently. Before a performance, you are scared instead of being excited. You feel relief instead of content after a performance. You think about other people more than you think about your dance moves. You take up simple steps rather than challenging yourself. Where have those prodigies gone? Those little girls who cared only and only about dancing? Where's that passion gone? I know, I should congratulate you for not taking fame into your heads but this is equally bad. You have got to remember why you started. It's not that your talent is shading off. You have improved yourself, over the years and you can see it in your numerous medals and trophies. So now you have talent plus lots of hard work. It's only those bizarre thoughts in your head which are ruining it for you. You shouldn't let your mind play games with yourself. Develop some mental confidence and try to dance for yourself. Otherwise, what's the use of anything?" Samaira, Deepika and Gayatri were too numbed to reply. They understood each word spoken by their tutor. The truth of the whole situation left them open-mouthed. Knowing something is one thing. But, when it is spoken out loud, then it becomes a real thing. It gets conviction and purpose. The remaining day they spent in silence. They even asked at their homes. Ram and Kavita consoled Samaira. They told her the same truth but also told her that it was not too late to become fearless. Dakshay sat by his sister and assured her that she could still get back on track. He even convinced her to wear comfortable clothes instead of over dressing all the time. "One wardrobe malfunction cannot take away the spark in my sister", he had said. Dinkar asked Deepika to live her life as per her terms. He convinced her that the society is a very expansive, useless and the last thing she should be worried about. Her mother, Shashi, asked her to go over her tapes of performances and study the difference. The three of them pondered over the words of Mr. Mehra and thier loved ones till they fell asleep.

          The next day, they met and started watching the video tapes of all their major performances. The transition was remarkable and noteworthy. It was impossible to ignore the change before and after that life-changing show. After some time, Deepika said, "Enough of this. After watching so many videos, I am just euphoric to get moving. Let's dance!" With no more arguments, the music was on. With a smile on their faces and a complete mental makeover, they danced with grace, joy and life. There was no fear about anything. They didn't care about any competition. They now knew that dance is not equal to competition. Dance equals life. They didn't feel like stopping. As Mr. Mehra saw them, he recorded their fabulous dance of freedom. As anticipated, it got the most views online and the three woman prodigies were officially back!

Patchy Perfections.

          Mala Bapat Roy was an independent woman in her early forties. Working for a top notch company at the post of Logistics Manager, she was content with her job. She had been married to the love of her life for over 14 years. Her husband, Praneet, considered himself lucky to have such a wonderful life partner in Mala. Their 12-year-old kid, Aryan, was a star student, an athlete and a loving son. They had maids for every thing, from cooking till care-taking of the house. They lived in a 3 bedroom apartment in Juhu. Her life was perfect. Yet, somehow somewhere she always felt incomplete. She felt like her life was a show in which she was merely a puppet, dancing by the strings held by its master. Being happy because of the increment in salary. (A string held by her company.) Being thrilled by her lifestyle. (A string held by the society.) Being a perfect woman. (A string she created for herself.) Just a puppet. Mala was aware that thousands of people craved to live her life. The rich life with a loving family, a huge home and a satisfying job. A life where she bought whatever she pleased. A life where she earned a fortune just in a month's period. A life where her husband loved and respected her. A life where her son idolized her. Such a perfect life.
          Mala's routine had been more or less similar since the past 10 years. She woke up at 6 am. Read the newspaper for an hour. Worked at office from 8 am to 8 pm. Reached home by 9 pm. Had dinner with family. Each one shared their day's events. Then slept. Sundays and holidays were rare but they were spent in corporate parties or relatives' get-together functions. Otherwise, Mala had an uptight schedule. However, due to the unavoidable questions her own self had been asking her, she had finally decided to investigate them. She took a day off from work. It turned out to be a simple favor because she had never taken such a leave. She had discussed it with Praneet and Aryan. They agreed that she deserved a break.
          It was a Wednesday. Mala left at 6 am for her farm house which was just an hour away. From the start of that first hour, her introspection had begun. She became nostalgic. In her school and college days, she had a handful of true friends. She hadn't spoken to them in such a long time that she couldn't remember herself. A girl who loved to cook, now ate the food made by her servants. A girl who loved to run, now raced in a Porsche. A girl who ate all types of junk food, now survived on salads and fruits. A girl who had a gang of BFFs, now had a group of junior staff. A girl who loved rap music, now pretended to like ghazals. A girl who was once a tomboy, was now a classy woman of pride. A girl who used to smile widely, now fake smiled. There was no resemblance between the Mala 20 years ago and the Mala now. She understood what she was missing on. She had to find herself. She didn't hate the life she lived. She just had to add a little bit of her younger self into the picture.
          As she reached her farm house, her servants took her luggage inside. She was offered green tea and fruits for breakfast. Her servants were well-acquainted with her daily food itinerary. This was the point when she knew she had to change things. She dismissed them. She decided to make the best of that day. The first thing she did was reading. Not the usual newspapers, but a book. She re-read her favorite novel 'The Godfather' by Mario Puzo. She was confused how she had almost forgotten the story. But she was also thrilled to take the path of reading. She read for 5 hours straight. Just like the old days, she thought. She had completely lost touch of books and now she felt really guilty for giving up on that hobby.
          By 12, she was hungry. She decided to cook a meal for herself. Enough of risottos and spaghetti. She was going to cook ordinary food, the way her mother taught her. She made chapatis, potato vegetable, dal and rice. Even though she hadn't cooked for a decade, she was glad that she hadn't lost the habit. There was actual gleefulness when her chapatis were a perfect shape of a circle. She experienced similar joy and excitement while cooking as she always had. That feeling gave her the first idea as to how such little things can be so worthy.
          After cooking, the next thing was shopping. It had been years since she went on a shopping spree. Her clothes, shoes, make up etc were taken care of by her personal assistant. Forgetting all the formalities, she went to a nearby mall. Thankfully or not, malls are just everywhere these days. There was no need to think about money or fashion. She was going to shop like she always did. She was very tired of the white, cream and black clothes she wore to office. Even her dresses were either white or similar to what sounds like dullness. It was time to bring color to life. She bought six dresses, which were red, blue, green, black, orange and pink. Since she had the body of a model, she knew she would look amazingly hot in them. Further, she bought office-appropriate shirts. Not too dull, not too bright. Perfect for a Manager. She was starting to enjoy the whole experience tremendously. Shopping is the cure for everything, they say and how true it is! The fun had just begun. Furthermore, she bought a couple of traditional skirts, some kurtis and tops. She bought a pair of 4 inch hot red stilettos and two wedges. Now was the time to splurge on make-up. Starting from foundation until make-up remover, she got it all. She didn't forget to get red lipsticks. Finally when her trolley was over flowing, she realized she had to check out, otherwise there would be no stopping her. So, after 3 hours of shopping therapy and with 5 huge shopping bags in each of her hands, she somehow reached her car. There was a smile on her face the whole time she drove back to her day's nest.
          Around 5 pm, she went to a coffee shop to meet her college friends, Vaibhavi and Nirali. When they agreed to meet her after years of silence, she was quite relieved. They were her friends, at least she hoped that. The first few minutes were spent in saying casual hellos after which there was an awkward silence. Mala asked everything about them. She was delighted to know that their lives were going great. Then, it was time. Mala had to tell them the real reason she wanted to meet them. She conveyed her life story to them. They were glad that she was living a perfect life. But then she confided in them and told them about the many patches in her life. She apologized for not contacting them. Somehow, because of their past bond, they understood. The three of them recollected their college days and shared many laughs. Mala got herself back and also her friends. And soon, she was going to get her life back.
          They talked their hearts out for about 2 hours. After bidding goodbye, she went to a garden. It was another thing which she had been alienated to. It was not a hi-fi park in Juhu. It was a park with ordinary people; walking, jogging and talking. After a run, she felt exhilarated. Real running in a park was much better than that on a treadmill. She sat on a bench, observing the people around her. An old man putting a rose in his wife's hair. A teenage couple lost in each other's eyes. A young girl listening to music. A laughing club. A group of old women gossiping. All these seemed so happy. Real happiness flowed from their faces reaching the other and making them equally happy. Mala was so robotized for fake smiles that she had almost forgotten what it was to laugh. That day she smiled genuinely, laughed incredibly and lived truly. She knew the secret of life lay in your own soul. Unless you don't feel happy inside, then all the outside flattery is worthless. Unless you don't live your life as per your own terms, then you're just a puppet. Unless you fill up the patches of sadness, you're only a patchy perfection.