KHUMAARI- The Nocturnal Beast, PART 2

KHUMAARI

The Nocturnal Beast

Thanx guys for the warmest welcome ever

PART 2

Dream

During certain stages of sleep occurs the involuntary succession of images, emotions and sensations in mind commonly called dreams.

Psychology, though says, that dreams are not just random slideshow shooting on the screen behind the closed lids. They convey one’s state of mind. The occurrences in a person’s subconscious could be a replay of past experiences-both good and hideous-or simply an escape into present fantasies while it could also be an indication of the upcoming future.

Unfortunately, not everything could be described by human intellect. Sometimes, few things are beyond normal understanding. Who knows if the realms of dreams-outside the substantive world-are used as a medium, to communicate, to explore and to feel, by the dead or the unknown and the hidden.

2 years later, Aenofl

The sun shone bright in the sky in the early summer morning, casting its buttery, mild shade over the land of the small town.

Tightly clutching the sweater around her torso with one hand and holding a bag full of supplies in other, Geet exited the only grocery store of their town.

As the summer had finally started, she was ecstatic, waiting for the longer and warmer days to come. Nothing against cold, she loved it but when you lived in a town where winters were bone chilling and summers were not a big difference, you seemed to get jaded of it n need some change-in her case-a brighter sun.

Kicking a stone in the way while walking along the pavement, she glanced up and groaned angrily. So much for the brighter sun, disdainfully looking at the gray clouds now covering the burning ball, she decided to reach home faster. Walking was not a problem because her apartment was not very far but she wasn’t sure, if she would be able to reach there before the wet drops hit the ground. God forbid if she got drenched in this cold weather.

There was a short cut that led to her street in half the time, though it was through the woods, not into deep, just by edges. She hurriedly left the road and took a right turn. After walking a little, trees started to thicken and she followed the trial which she had only once before used. It was unusual because the last time she remembered entering the woods was when she was thirteen. Her father had given her a good scolding for that. She acknowledged his concern for the forest being dangerous and never repeated the mistake again, then why now?

There were animals that could prove fatal. Although they remained in the vast inlands of the forest and Geet had never heard any resident of their town being attacked. Still it didn’t mean that the dark woods were worth trusting. The search of food could bring the predators out. She just wished not to be their first human feast.

Increasing her pace, she vaguely tried to remember which day was today since she was grocery shopping it must be the weekend. Strangely she couldn’t point out the exact day. May be the cold winds had her mind jammed.

The rumble from above caught her attention and to utter dismay the sky was covered with a thick sheet of black clouds making the already shadowy surrounding even darker. An alarm started to sound in the back of her head. She jumped upon hearing another rumble and next moment realised it was not from up in the sky but somewhere near.

Bracing herself, she turned around and came face to face with big black eyes that seemed to have been set alight in the darkness. Another growl, that Geet thought of as a warning, came with the front right paw of what looked like an unnatural wolf being forcefully pushed into the ground for the impending hunt. Her eyes were wide n breath got caught in throat.

The creature ducked his head, setting his focus on her. She knew he would attack any second. Gulping her saliva, she very slowly took a step back. The wolf snarled, his nostrils flaring n she froze.

She counted till three n did what any helpless prey would have opted for, ran- as fast as she could. She tried to loose him but the heavy sound created by his paws meeting the hard ground told that he was not far behind. She wondered, how much time would it take for him to catch her?

Taking sharp turns, avoiding tree n leaping across the logs, she kept running on the fuel of her adrenaline. Her throat was dry, lungs in desperate need of air while legs felt like they had gone numb. To top it all she realised that the trail she was following was long lost. There was no awareness of where she was. Even if she somehow saved herself from that thing, the chances were that she would never find her way out n nobody would be able to locate her dead body. Her death would become an unsolved mystery. She wasn’t sure about anyone else but Cotton surely would miss her.

No, she didn’t want her end to be like this n so early.

To see if he was still behind her, she looked back n whoever preached about not looking back while running was a mastermind. Because when she twisted her head back he pounced at her from front.

She screamed at the abrupt hit. Then gasped because the one who'd knocked her to the ground was not an animal but a man n he was naked. The more astonishing fact was the feeling his flesh against hers, from chest to toe. She was as bare as him.

Fog seemed to surround the two nude bodies, cutting their world from the real. She tried to make out his face but couldn’t, only the darkness of his eyes was visible. He kissed the corner of her mouth n then his lips trailed down to her neck where he nipped at her skin. She could do nothing but shudder in response.

Every inch, that his lips came into contact with, burned. She felt an ache at her centre as his hard manhood rested on her thigh. His rough fingers traced the path till her globes where he cupped her breast. She wanted to but she didn’t scream nor pushed him away as though tied in the fascination of things he was doing to her.

It was all new n she liked the sensations dancing beneath her skin and was craving for more.

His knees nudged her thighs apart while his lips nibbled on her earlobe, his hand playing with her nipples.

His head moved lower to take her pointed bud in mouth. The circle created by his tongue made her moan n she found his shaft crawling up to her core. This was so wrong yet so desirable. It seemed, if he stopped now she would die then n there.

Releasing her nipple with a small bite, his lips went again to her ear. Mine. He whispered his claim leisurely grinding his manhood to her wet spot.

When he raised his hips, she understood what was coming. Although disgusted with herself, she thrust her own hips up to meet him n the piece of his flesh entered her core in one sharp, smooth movement.

She woke up panting n horny. Her hand flew to the side lamp n she switched it on. She was wet in every sense with sweat n unfulfilled wanton desire.

The same dream again!!

A tear slid down her cheek, of helplessness n an eccentric longing. She wiped the drop away. At least now when she had that dream today, next 5-6 nights could be spent fearless. It was peculiar. Her haunted dream had a pattern, she saw it only once in a week, thankfully.

Getting up from the bed, she turned on the main light n closed the lamp. Her pet dog, Cotton, was sleeping coolly at the end of the like nothing happened.

First look at him n nobody would be able to figure out that it was actually a dog n not a big cotton ball.

She felt bit eased with the view of her cutie pie companion. Still her heart was beating fast; she walked back n forth to calm it down n then settled on the bed again frustrated, not getting the required result.

After rubbing her face with her palms n humming an idiotic song from a movie she didn’t dare watch, she opened her drawer filled with her favorite thing, sweets. There were lollipops, toffees n the magical yummilicious chocolates.

She pulled out a chocolate bar n after unwrapping it, took a bite. The dulcet cocoa melted in her mouth n she savored the sugary delight. There was no problem in world that chocolate could not solve.

The rest of the night went sleepless which was no surprise. Sleep never came back once she had that dream more precisely nightmare, perhaps the reason was the fear of closing her eyes n entering that world again.

It was only when the birds started chirruping outside that she realised that the sun had arisen with a new day. She drew the curtains open to the sight of her patio. She loved her town on days like this. Sunny n clear, the greenery around added to the serene beauty. Still she missed Bangalore. She missed the hustle bustle of the city life. She missed the ignorant people n her friends. More than everything else she missed her college n books.

But not for very long she would be back there again. Her whole life circled around others n she did what they wished. Not anymore, she would complete her post graduate n come out as a licensed psychologist.

She just needed one chance. Glancing at the calendar she enthusiastically confirmed that it was Sunday. It meant she had to go home today. She could try to convince her dad to let her continue her studies. Looking up she joined her hand n prayed to god n her mother to help her. There was little time left for the colleges to accept applications for this year’s term. She didn’t want to waste this year n who knows if she did miss it, her dad would probably get her married. He already had her engaged.

A year could certainly make a lot of changes.

Hearing a small scowl she turned around while Cotton rushed to her feet, rubbing his head against her leg.

Aww my hero is up. She said taking the tiny being in her arms n scratching that sweet spot behind his ear. It was gifted by her eldest brother on her 16th birthday. Only she knew how much she missed her little bundle when he was at her father’s place and she was in Bangalore as no pets were allowed in her hostel. But who would tell the matron that Cotton was not a pet but her family member.

After pouring dog food in Cotton’s bowl, she pulled out her clothes from the cupboard n dashed into the undersized bathroom of her apartment. On total her whole apartment was small consisting of a living room with a kitchenette attached to it n a bed room with adjoined bathroom. Irrespective of the size, her apartment was cosy n homely while it was better than the room she shared with Garima back in hostel.

Once done with the bath, she walked to the mirror to check her appearance. Faded jeans, pink tank top n a brown jacket over it, she looked just the same. Staring out of the window she discarded the idea of taking a sweater. It wasn’t needed since the weather was moderate. Staring back at the mirror, her eyes came to a halt on the faded mark on the left side of her neck.

She found it the next morning after that horrible party two years ago n had no idea how it got there. Taking into account Garima’s assumption, she believed that her drink was spiked n the mark could be doing of some bug or a bush or something which scratched against her while she was in the trees.

Locking her apartment door, Geet exited the small building she lived in. Her father’s home was nearby, then taking the small area of their town every place was near.

Sometimes it was exasperating to live in a place like this, secluded from rest of the world n so small. She still remembered the stories one old grandma from their neighbourhood liked to recite to the children. The name of their town was Aenofl, pronounced as E-nofal. She told that ‘Ane’ in old native language meant arcane n ‘ofl’ meant cold. So their town was the land of the cold n mysterious according to the aged lady.

At that time those stories fascinated her but now she knew why her town was named so, well partially. About the mysterious thing she was clueless but the cold aspect of the name she assumed to understand. Firstly it could be because of the weather or if not that then surely it referred to the men in town because they were cold hearted. They thought they knew everything n were the king of world. Not sure about whole town but men in her family were exactly the same. She let out a huff. Theirs was a male chauvinist society n she hated it to the core.

Surely the people-the little population at their town-were nice but still a feeling of being entrapped haunted her every now n then. For a women, there were no opportunities, no future outside the house more particularly kitchen. There was also no phone towers n no television network either. And so people’s thinking was narrow, they didn’t know what was happening in the outside world n that the women were not only to take care of family n house.

She wanted to be an example to the people of her town. That was why she fought for her graduation n that was why she was not living with her father currently.

Last time her father let her go for graduation, though in return, he asked her to give consent for engagement to the son of his best friend. As soon as she turned eighteen he made her exchange rings.

She stared at the meaningless gold band in her ring finger. The fact that she didn’t love her fiancé was not important because she knew that type of love would never sprout in her heart. Something from the past had broken her belief on the feeling of love that existed between two lovers or life partners.

Still she agreed for the engagement. It was a very little price for her graduation; her father wanted something as a guarantee n she had no qualms in giving it to him, if it meant she could pursue her dreams.

This time he was not at all ready. But she was also his daughter. If he was stubborn, she was no less. She would do her post graduate n become a psychologist. It was her fate n nobody could change that, not even her own father.

When she reached the two story house of her father, it was locked. She wondered where everyone had gone. They seldom left this early on Sunday mornings. Taking the keys from below the doormat she unlocked the main door n entered the house.

She had a mini cardiac arrest looking at the mess in living room. Gosh! It was truly criminal to leave three men in a house without female company.

If they were all out right now the odds were less of them returning before lunch. With a sigh she decided to start cleaning n then prepare lunch directly. Apparently, the lone reason for coming here every Sunday was to clean n cook. It was what she did since she started living with them. Yeah, she didn’t live with her father since her birth. It was funny that her father had absolutely no idea that she existed till 10 years of her life n her brothers were not her real but cousin brothers who were adopted by her father.

Rahul n Vipul were the sons of her father’s elder brother. Their parents were dead n they lived with her father even before she did. They both were elder to her n loved her like a real sister, but sometimes could be sheer pain in ass. Rahul was 25 n Vipul, 23 n they took advantage of it to the fullest, treating her like a kid. It was one of the many things she hated from the bottom of her heart, being treated like a 12 year old.

Geet heard the doorbell ring n went to open the door.

Welcome back papa. She said taking her father’s bag.

How is my little princess? He asked n Geet rolled her eyes at the word, how typical of him.

I am good papa. Where have you been?

Some important work had me out with your brothers. He said going upstairs to his room.

Geet didn’t ask further. She knew they wouldn’t bother telling her what that important work was.

Hey sis. Both her brother said in unison. Rahul patted her cheek n Vipul opted for pulling her braid.

Don’t do that. She scolded n was about to close the door when Sahil caught her eyes. He was coming towards her after locking the gypsy.

Hello Geet. He greeted with a bright smile.

Your fiancé wanted to eat your hand made food. She heard Vipul’s voice from inside.

Sahil walked to the dining room.

With a blush on her cheeks, she closed the door.

Aaah Geet. You cleaned it all. Vipul said with a glint in his eyes. Thank you so much. You cleaned my room also?

Yeah I cleaned that gutter hole. Sticking her tongue out, she taunted.

Remind me, why you are staying in that apartment, again? Rahul asked already knowing the reason.

Because little sis wants to study more. Vipul said sarcastically.

Geet was used to all this teasing n mocking. The best technique to deal with this crap was to snub it. She simply brought the food to the dining table.

Seriously Geet we can’t live like this. I need this food daily. Rahul said making a baby face. Please come back.

Shut up. You know it won’t have any effect on me.

Rahul is right Geet. Mr. Punj said entering the dining room. You should stop all this childishness and come back here. This house is far better than your apartment.

Firstly, I am not a child. She whined.

Point proved. Vipul commented n gave Rahul a high five.

She threw her brothers a glare and then sighed. Papa please. I can’t n you know the reason well. No matter what they said she won’t come back. For years she cooked for them, cleaned the house n did their laundry. Now she wanted to be independent n complete her studies. Not too much she was asking for. It was her life, right?

Well you completed your graduation in Banglore that’s more than enough. Girls at our place don't even get to do that. Resolution was evident in Mr. Punj’s voice. You are not going out of the town again. Your brothers and Sahil wants the same.

Her brothers gave a nod in affirmation. She loved them, she swear she did but they could be really stupid n hell irritating at times. On the other hand, Sahil just shrugged. She didn’t expect much from him either. He always stayed along the safety lines not wanting to angry her n also not going against her family. Sometimes she wished him to be man enough, for a word in support or even in opposition, at least she would know his point of view.

She was about to protest again but her father showed a hand, dismissing anymore discussion on the subject. Geet ate the food sadly and silently while the men talked among themselves. 

After the lunch, she stored the leftovers in fridge so her hungry family could survive on good food at least for one more meal. God! Life would have been so much easier with another woman in the house. But no worries, not like the world had ended. Once back to the apartment, she would treat herself with a chocolate cake. Like stated earlier, there was no problem in the world that chocolate couldn’t solve. She twisted her lips, fancying it to be actually true.

Next day,

He banged his cell to the wall. Thrashing into the hard concrete, it fell on the floor in five pieces, one of them hitting the side wall.

That was your fifth phone. Adi said entering the room.

This filthy place has no network.

I know and am afraid that there is another bad news.

Maan ran a hand through his hair n Adi continued.

It would take one more day for the road to get cleared. We can’t proceed further before that.

At this, Maan glared at him n Adi raised his hands. Hey! I had no hand in the landslide. It’s the natural forces.

I don’t like this place. Maan groaned. And Maan Singh Khurana doesn’t stay at a place like this.

Maan. Adi sighed. This is the only Inn this town has. We only have to spend a day here. Now, where are you going?

You can’t expect me to remain in this room for whole 24 hours. Maan said walking to the door. It’s smaller than my closet.

Adi rolled his eyes. Just don’t damage anything. He told.

Maan smirked closing the door behind him. Will try.

__________________________________

BEAUTIFULLY FLAWED, Part 9

BEAUTIFULLY FLAWED

Part 9

Dazed, she looked at their entwined hands as he walked with her into the office hand in hand. What's with giddy ticklish feeling in her stomach, she thought knotting her brows. It was funny how butterflies were fluttering inside her. Before now she didn't know that the butterflies actually resided in stomach outside the novel world.

Unable to resist, she peeked at him from the corner of her eyes n oh god. In just a simple black suit he was looking... She had no decent enough word to describe the sex appeal oozing out of him. Her mind was just able to conjure X-rated adjectives for the man walking beside.

She averted her gaze... phew. It seemed she would burn without fire if looked at him any longer. Such a man shouldn't be allowed at a working place, how would girls work without getting distracted? Too bad he was the owner of the place so the girls had no means to save themselves.

Looking around she found the office staff staring at her. She knew all girls were looking at her with envy. First, because she was looking really a bombshell-something the guys were swooning over-in the grey semi formal dress that Niks had given her n second because... well, she was with their hot boss. Who wouldn't want to be in her place?

The next moment, though, reality dawned upon her n a frown replaced the smirk that was playing on her face earlier. What was she thinking? It was not real just momentary delusion. She shouldn't be so chilled out. What if someone recognised her? She had gotten a makeover, her hairs were coloured n yeah she totally looked different but was it enough to hide her truth? The giddy feeling was now gone leaving just a pain behind that arose in the pits of your stomach when scared.

Maan... She cooed to catch his attention when they entered his lavish cabin.

You know how good that name sounds when you say it. He huskily said turning around n pulling her to him.

Something was wrong with him since the morning, Geet noticed. He was being too touchy-touchy. Not like she minded. No Geet you do not like it. She reminded herself. There must be a way to tell him that with his proximity, thinking was not possible but she doubted even after knowing he would consider it. Anyways what was she going to say, again? Yeah... I think I should go back.

No you won't?

But why? She protested. I mean what if someone, you know, recognized me.

She understood that he saw the fear in her eyes because his gaze softened. Don't be scared Geet. He tucked a loose strand behind her ear. No one would recognize you n if someone did, I will deal with it.

How? She whispered without thinking.

You trust me?

Huh? Honestly, I... She searched a set of word that would be polite as a negative answer to his question. Something about making him upset didn't settled well with her. I can't. It's embedded in here. She tapped her forehead with a smile to make up, for the absence of trust she didn't-couldn't-feel.

His eyes were intense n the corner of his lips twitched into a small smile that didn't reach his eyes. Still a determination was there like he was silently promising something; it made her a little uncomfortable n so she wriggled a little to move back.

He didn't let her. His hand moved up on her back pushing her back, her chest pressed to his, he allowed no escape, no space. When her gaze shifted back to face, he was leaning closer.

He was going to kiss her.

A part of her wanted to jump with new found excitement n another wanted to push him n run as far as possible. Apparently, lust was mightier because the she didn't push him instead was irritated because he was taking so much time. Was he testing or teasing her?

Can I kiss you Geet? He cupped her cheek with the free hand.

Nobody asked for her permission before. What was she to say? It was good there was no voice in her due the lump forming in her throat. But he had stopped n was waiting for her answer. With a groan she herself erased the distance to taste him but he was more eager.

He responded with a fire she thought would consume her whole. The hand on her face moved into her hair n she moved her own to encircle around his neck. His tongue has just darted inside her mouth when a knock disturbed them.

They parted unwillingly n though Geet, herself, was extremely annoyed, the expression on Maan's face was worth watching. She pressed her lips together to hold back the giggle.

Your dimples give you away. Maan said rolling his eyes. I don't like people laughing at me.

She corrected his collar n moved back. Okay sir. The words were accompanied by a giggle n Maan smiled shaking his head. Come in.

Sir, the meeting is about to start. A girl informed.

Am coming. Maan said dismissing her. Let's go.

Geet raised a brow when he held her hand. You have got to be kidding?

The smirk on his face said it all.

But what will I do in the meeting?

Maan shrugged. Just be with me.

She sighed. After the little time she spent with him one thing was clear. Arguing with MSK was of no use.

The room where meeting was held was huge with a polished wooded table in middle to accommodate nearly 20 people. Maan sat at the head of the table n made Geet sit at the side beside him. Glancing around, she saw the questioning looks thrown her way which she gladly ignored.

Across her Deepika was sitting, her jaw was clenched n she muttered something under her breath. Geet was positive that it was some kind profanity. Pity, they didn't affect her. To irritate Deepika more she grinned at her earning a disgusted look in return. But in the end Deepika turned her head n Geet's grin just grew wider.

After the initial greetings n a small discussion, a man started some presentation on the projector.

Geet felt weight on her thigh. Heat seeped into her skin making tingles run up to the space between her legs. She looked down to find Maan's hand resting there playing with the hem of her skirt. When she looked up though, he was innocently concentrating on the presentation, giving no hint of the mischiefs going on in that devil mind of his.

But it was hard for her to not react to his touch. To scream out loud, she was the pros here. How could she not control herself? To not make a fool of herself in front of everyone, she picked up the file kept before her. Everyone present was provided with a copy.

The file included the blueprints n documentation for the construction to be done. It belonged to a casino that was to be made in Goa. One of a kind, Geet could tell Maan's team had put in a lot of efforts. The design was almost impeccable, almost.

She took out the pencil from the stand n started scribbling roughly over the design of the front entrance of the Casino which needed a little finishing. Once done, she smiled satisfied. Now it was perfect.

The meeting didn't seem to end. Maan's hand was still placed over her thigh. But even he didn't move it since last 10 mins or so. It was almost 45 mins since they were sitting there n she was getting hell bored n her stomach was also grumbling now. She should have eaten more at his house before leaving.

Maan was fully engrossed in what Deepika was saying. She had taken position of the man earlier giving the presentation n now was explaining the interiors n blah blah. It was better to leave. Slipping the design she had doodled over to the man beside her, she stood up. He was an old man with not a single black hair on his head. From the greetings exchanged earlier, Geet knew he was the main client for whom all these designs were made in first place.

The old man gave her a look n then observed the design given to him by Geet. No one else noticed that she had stood up in the faintly lit room, just Maan raised a brow.

I will be waiting in your cabin. She whispered into Maan ears n thankfully he didn't protested n nodded his head.

She entered Maan's cabin. It was not far away otherwise she would have surely lost her way in the big office. As she walked towards the table someone cleared his throat.

Hello there. He said from where he was sitting on the sofa at the side. Closing the magazine he was reading, the man stood up n strolled towards her as if to take a closer look.

She recognized him at first look. She never forgot faces specially the unpleasant ones.

Have we met before? He asked cocking his head to the side a little.

Yes. No. She recognized him from a hotel that she had visited a few months ago. She was there for a customer at night n this man was drunk there. They had crossed path at the lobby where he had asked her to spend the night with him. She had declined outright, first because she was already booked n second because he didn't give her very good vibes.

Although, a wh**e's 'no' never seemed to be digestible with men n if rich, they thought every prostitute was just waiting for them, available at their beck n call. He was adamant to take her but Geet was not new to the game. The hotel manager was her known, she called him n he somehow pacified him, may be would have called another girl. She didn't know because she didn't stay any longer.

I don't think we have met before. She said wishing for a paper bag to cover her face. It is my first visit to Delhi.

Okay. He spoke but didn't look fully convinced. Dev Singh Khurana. Oh no. I am Maan's brother. Thank god she didn't sleep with him. It would have become really awkward with Maan then.

She gave her hand to his outstretched one. He shook it suggestively n she pulled it back not wanting to give him any wrong idea. His eyes roamed over her body lingering more over the places exposed, Geet could tell it was not sufficient for him, the glint in his eyes told that he would have asked her to strip then n there if he could. It was good by now she was used to these kinds of dirty gazes; any other normal girl at her place would have probably fancied the ground to swallow her.

So what brings you here? He asked gliding his fingers up her bare arm.

She raised a brow. I am with Maan. The words were calm, inside she was panicking. Not because of his actions but because he was too close. One more blink n he may remember who she was. It was nice to meet you Mr. Khurana. She threw him a haste smile. I have to leave now.

I hope we would meet again?

She pretended to not hear n moved out.

Last precap continued

_______________________________________

KHUMAARI- The Nocturnal Beast, PART 1

KHUMAARI

The Nocturnal Beast

“Hate a burden too overwhelming.
There is just one way to get rid of it, the demise of the subject.
And for you to die,
I would have to kiss the death.”

PART 1

Mother Mary Memorial Hostel (Mount Caramel College), Bangalore

Oh god! What should I do with these bozo heads? A girl with short, pitch black hair shouted on top of her voice entering a room.

Uff Ria can’t you speak in normal pitch so that we poor creatures could understand your alien language. Another tall girl with auburn hair tied in a messy bun said coming out of the bathroom while wiping her wet hands in a towel.

Ho ha ha... Garima dear, where did you get that rotten sense of humour? Ria asked sarcastically.

From the same place where you got your hair cut. Ria seethed in anger while Garima grinned mockingly multiplying the anger of her friend. Anyways why are shouting like someone bit your ass?

Because you are not ready yet. Throwing her hands in exasperation Ria explained the obvious. N that sissy Dipti is still scared of a mere party. Give. Me. A. Break.

I am not scared. The originator of Ria’s anger stepped inside the room shoving her already fierce roommate aside. I am just too smart to crash a party-I am not invited  for-and make a fool of myself.

First, see where you are walking. Ria said pulling Ritu’s pony. And please whole college is going there. Nobody knows who is invited and who is not. I am sure Karishma herself wouldn’t remember whom she invited and who the gatecrashers are.

Whatever. Dipti folded her arms in determination. I am not going because you are a fool and am not.

That’s not fair yaar. Ria whined. Why are you throwing tantrums, huh? It the last day of term, tomorrow the vacations are starting and we would all go home. Please it’s just a goddamn party.

Ria’s anger reached new heights and the meter of her temper burst on seeing the fourth member of their group sitting over her study table n reading some book n eating a cake piece oblivious to the third world war going beside her.

What the hell are you doing there? Ria picked up a pillow, took aim n BAM! The weapon hit the target on head.

What? The girl turned her head giving Ria a dirty look n resumed reading.

Call fire brigade, this place is going to blast any moment now. Garima whispered to Dipti making her giggle.

Are you coming or not?

Hmm...

Geeeeet. Ria said closing the book n pushing the plate with the cake away.

Geet covered her ears to block out Ria’s nasty scream. I was studying a case. She complained angrily but encountering the murderous expression of the anger machine, opted for a nervous laugh instead. Did I miss something?

The other two girls just shrugged when Geet gave them a ‘help-me’ call through her eyes.

Exams are over, term is over. Vacations are starting tomorrow n you Ms. Punj, instead of taking part in the serious discussion your friend is dying over, are busy-of all things-with a book, studying a fucking case n eating a cake. Are you mad? Ria said in one breath.

Serious discussion. Dipti scoffed then receiving a death glare from Ria instantly zipped her mouth.

Okay. No books. Geet removed her reading glasses n securely placed them in the case to prove her statement. Now, I am all ears. Shoot!

Fine. You are coming to the party. Ria said composing herself. And do not mistake it as a question. It’s an order.

Oh! And who are you to order her. Dipti retorted.

Please guys don’t start again. Garima said fearing another fight. What’s say Geet? Shall we go?

I don’t know yaar. Geet answered unsure. We are not invited n don’t you think we are young. I mean, to party outside with boys n all. I don’t think papa would approve that.

OMG. Your father is miles away how is he going to know? And if you are forgetting let me remind you we are seventeen n this old chicken is eighteen. Ria reasoned.

That’s because my birthday was last week. Dipti defended.

Aaha so you accept you are a chicken. Before Dipti could retort Ria continued. So where was I? Yeah we are big enough to party outside. Moreover who knows Geet darling you might get lucky n find your... She slipped her hand over Geet shoulder. You know what I mean. She winked suggestively.

Shut up that’s impossible. Geet threw Ria’s arm away.

Ria babes you shouldn’t be studying psychology with us. Dipti stated sarcastically. Go do Bachelors in Lovology.

No thanks for the ‘unasked-for’ advice. Ria batted her eyelashes.

I am going if Geet and Dipti are up for it. Garima said with finality.

Same here, I am going if Garima n Dipti are going. Geet supported.

Okay so technically you both are ready. Only our Dipti Ma’am is left. Ria walked over n held Dipti’s shoulder.

Dipti dear, you are through your first year of college. Develop some guts n enjoy. Geet n Garima rolled their eyes at Ria’s impartment of courage n virtue. Nothing bad would happen. I, Ria Mathur, guarantee you on my life.

Dipti sighed n Ria held her breath. OKAY.

Yay!! Ria danced like a maniac n Garima captured the funny moment in her phone. Hey! You devil. Give me the phone.

No, that my payment for attending the party. Garima stated.

I wish I could have one too. A shadow of sadness came over Geet’s face. She also wanted to have funny, humiliating pictures of her friends with her while she went back home for vacations. After going home she decided to purchase a camera with her savings.

No problem I will mail you the pictures. Garima consoled.

No system and even if I had one, there is no network or telephone lines at my place.

Seriously Geet, do you live at the Great Himalayas with Big Foot. Ria joked.

A heavy sigh escaped her lips. Something approximate minus the Big Foot.

Aaa... Ria you said party would start at 7. It’s already 6. Dipti commented from behind in a meek voice, the idea of going to the party still unsettling.

Oh yeah. Ria said and held Dipti hand. Come on lets go.

Wait a second. Are you all done with your packing? Garima asked because they had to leave the next morning.

Yeah Ms. Hostel prize winner for good conduct. Ria said. Now get ready lets crash the bitch’s party.

They both left for their room while Geet n Garima pulled out their cloths to change into.

No one can win from Ria. Garima said moving towards the bathroom. All the rooms had double occupancy, Geet n Garima were roommates while Riya n Ritu’s room was down the stairs just bellow them.

Yeah no doubt. Geet murmured. Garima...

Yes.

I will miss you. Geet’s said out of the blues and her eyes watered as she stated her feeling. She knew she was behaving like a retard but it was not easy to live with a person for almost a year n then leave all of a sudden. So, she had the right to cry n wail, not like she did it all the time. Generally she was pretty strong-her family never believed that-but sometimes it became hard to contain yourself.

Aww... Garima threw the clothes in hand on bed n engulfed her best friend in a bear hug. I will miss you too. But not much because we would be meeting after two months, okay so don’t be sad.

Yes. She pulled back.

Change fast now or I will call Ria.

Don’t be so mean. You want me dead or what? Geet faked fear then they both started laughing.

That’s better. Garima smiled n went into the bathroom.

Geet gave a look over to her room. Dull yellow walls stared back at her. Two single beds on the right n two study tables across them on the left. A cupboard in the corner with five cabinets, mother of hundreds of brawls considering how Ritu n Ria fought the whole year for that fifth cabinet. Her lips curved up into a smile.

By god’s grace the case was not the same with her, she n Garima rarely fought. Garima gave up on the fifth cabinet on the very first day once she looked at the mounts of books that Geet  had brought. It was not just the cabinet. When they all were childish n could be really irksome, Garima was-most of the times-mature n calculative.

It was funny but Geet, sometimes, saw a mother in her. It happens when you don’t have a good picture of one. She was only ten, balancing on the boundary of adolescence n in need of maternal guidance the most, when her mother died.

She picked her cloths up. Yes, she lost her mother but after that only she found her father. That was another story and a complicated one too, she herself didn’t know the start and end of it and with time had learned to not mull over the fact. For now it was better to just change n enjoy the college’s queen bee’s party she was going to, rather than digging the dead corpses from the past.

Khurana Power and Infrastructure, Bangalore Branch

So gentlemen that marks the end of our presentation. A young girl in white shirt and grey pencil skirt kept the laser pen down on the table.

The lights came back n projector was turned off. In the large conference hall all heads turned for the verdict of the one man for whom the whole thing was organised.

Ahem... Sir. The branch manager sitting close to the man called when he didn’t seem to notice that everyone-including the clients-were waiting to hear his decision.

Can’t you see I am busy? He snapped raising his head. His attention moved back to whatever he was doing on his I-phone.

There was something dark and ghastly about the man’s eye n rumbling voice that sent tremors through manager’s body, others were no different. No one dared say a word.

S...sir the presentation has ended. The manager informed in a small voice. Shall we sign the deal?

He looked annoyed while standing up from his chair at the centre head of the large arched granite n copper skirt table.

I would like to review it once more. The words were spoken as the man dressed in designer suit devoid of single crease exited the hall.

The manager followed hurriedly while his moody boss-throughout the way to his cabin-was drowned in his phone, eyes glued to the screen. The manager assumed it to be some work of great importance as it held the occupancy of his multibillionaire boss’s interest.

I will ask Nivedita to bring the project file. The manager said when they entered the cabin.

No need.

But Sir you said you want to review...

He cut him off. The biggest of wars are not fought with swords or guns but are won with words. Sometimes they mean the truth and sometimes deception is their job.

The manager didn’t understand his puzzled words and started forming his next question or suggestion; it was difficult to plan a simple statement when your employer was so unpredictable.

Previously, his father or cousin brothers used to visit when any big project was concerned and it was far easier to work with them. It was the first time that the heir of Khurana Empire was stepping into the business and the manager was grief-stricken that he had to start with the Bangalore branch.

So what do you think about the project? We should sign the deal or not? The boss asked.

Sir, deal is good, the turnover is also-

Very well, go for it then.

Now the manager was inquisitive. What was in that phone that his boss was not interested in deal that promised thousands of crores. Curiosity killed the cat but he chose to take the risk nonetheless.

Raising on his tiptoes the manager peeked into his boss’s phone over the shoulder. To say he was astonished would be an understatement. Instead of business news letters or some complex details of some future venture, he saw..... cars.

A victorious grin spread across his face as the black car leaped over the finish line. 21 laps and after crashing 34 other cars-most of which were his deliberate doing-the win was bound  to be his. Maan Singh Khurana never lost. He was born to rule and take over the world, then it was just a mere game.

Game!! He was playing a game. The manager was unable to digest the fact, was it a joke? Maan turned around n the manager settled back on his heels, perplexed, what to say and what to do.

Where are you going sir? He asked when Maan started leaving.

What you do when a deal is sealed? Befuddled, the manager just stared at him not sure what to expect. Party!!

Years of wait like a stuck stab in flesh, would sooth. A single touch and the recognition of thy face would be my haven

She exited the noisy inside of the lounge into the peaceful backyard which was less crowded n only the faint traces of the roaring music from interiors were audible.

Geet looked up into the moonless sky where hundreds of glittering stars were unsuccessfully trying to substitute the presence of the natural satellite. Walking ahead she found this place more comforting. No, she was not a loner and also didn’t detested music but crowd and rib-shaking noise didn’t suit her much.

The fire burning in middle of setting there made her feel the warmth just by the view. There were trees around since it was the outskirts of the city but the cold wind didn’t bother her much if it meant she could be alone for some time.

As soon as they had come Ria found her boy friend who was from another college. Ritu met some girlfriends of hers to chit chat about their plans for vacations, leaving Garima n Geet on their own. They both were enjoying each other’s company when after sometime a boy, a rather handsome and decent-yeah, a rare combination-asked Garima for dance.

For a while Geet saw them dancing but then a boy approached her too asking for a dance to which she denied in the most polite manner she could. She didn’t like the attention but boys approaching her were inevitable. It was a party while a girl standing alone was considered available, so she came out where the chances of her being asked to deliver her denial were less.

Well, no specific reason for behaving like a party pooper... she just felt strange, there was a reason why strangers were called so. Other people could do it but she couldn’t. Not just with opposite gender but also with girls, she didn’t felt very good when they were unknown, because unknown was uncertain and uncertain in more or less probability was dangerous. She liked to keep away from it.

Abruptly, a creepy feeling came over her. She diverted her eyes from the fire to look at the people around and found everyone in pairs. All were enjoying the glory of night and privacy between the similar seekers. Her eyes wandered back to the fire. But feeling a pull, a sort of magnetism, she raised her eyes and that was when their gaze locked.

Maan from one of his employees asked about the places for good booze and chicks at night. The incredulous and scared employee told about a number of destinations but a certain lounge at the outskirts of the city caught his interest. It was strange as the place was far and just opposite to the hotel he was staying in but his insides insisted that what he was looking for was there.

The lounge, though, when he reached was hosting some private party still he found himself adamant to go there only. Moreover, he didn’t come this far to go back and thus handed a bunch of thousand rupee bills to the guard and gained entry. It was unfair means, he knew, but who said life was fair and he had done better than this. Or would ‘worse’ be the right term?

The bar had nice stock of wine and almost every girl at the party was ready to fall in his arms taking in his behold-the-lord appearance. Nothing new, he was, conceitedly, used to this attention. He knew how normal humans reacted to his presence. It was natural, fire pulled the moth, drug the sinking addict.

Death and danger not always repulsed the casualty, sometimes it came beautifully wrapped Otherwise there would be no end.

After a while, a girl dressed meagrely walked to him, sufficient enough for a little amusement. Without him talking much she told that it was her party and she clearly remembered not inviting him and was surprised how he entered since he was elder. She looked eighteen and he was... well, in all normalcy, twenty one.

She told him there won’t be any problem with him staying if he was ready to pay her in kind. He would have stayed anyway, one snap of his finger and the whole place and 10 KMs of land  surrounding it would be named his. If the city was on sale, he would have no problem in buying it even. But the girl was offering what he wanted and he had to admit she was pretty good for her age.

They decided to move out to the back of the lounge where arrangements were made for the couples and while going out, the girl gave-what Maan knew-a winning smirk to her contemporaries. They sat on the log across the fire and Maan was in favour of no more talks. He pulled her into his lap and captured her lips; he didn’t like the flavour of the gloss or whatever it was but the girl would do. She tried to match him which was impossible, no harm in trying though.

He pulled her closer and she threaded her one hand into his hairs, the other one moved inside his shirt. Her cold hand touched his warm skin while he smelt something, someone. It was strong not like usual, perky and spicy with floral undertone.

The intensity of the dulcet wisps amplified, overpowering his senses, whomever it belonged to was coming closer. He knew where to find the owner and stared ahead. She came into the view, walking towards him like an angel. Her waist length, dark brown hairs were flowing with the soft wind and she was draped in a red dress which reached her knees.

He instantly raised his eyes, she did too at the same time and their gazes locked. The being inside him growled his enthusiasm and Maan felt a whirlpool of emotions creating havoc inside him.

In between all this array of swirling feelings there was this strong awareness of accomplishment, contentment as though a wandering Vagabond finally found the motive of his existence.

It was scary, the depth of his eyes. She felt she would drown and would never find the surface. The way he was staring at her, held some unknown worth. She wanted to turn her head, tear her eyes off but couldn’t as if an invisible string was tying her gaze to his.

She wasn’t able to see his whole face. Why? Yuck!! Because he was kissing a girl and the girl was Karishma, the college bitch. Double yuck!! Why she didn’t notice before, may be because of his hypnotic orbs.

Karishma tugged at his lips when he didn’t respond for a while. That abstracted his attention resulting in the breakage of their eye lock.

The lips which were pleasuring a few moments ago morphed into an object of disgust. He harshly pushed the girl aside earning a shriek from her and stood up. But that girl was gone, his eyes searched around to no use.

Shit! Instead of turning back and directly going inside she took right. Mind to blame, it had turned into an unresponsive puddle of chaos. It never happened to her before, not just by looking into someone’s eyes, not to forget he was kissing that Karishma. What was wrong with her brain?

She wondered if to go back but then she would have to face the freak again. So it would be better if she went around the lounge and entered through the front door.

There were trees surrounding the thin pavement but faint light was visible coming from upfront. As she walked a few steps something moved, behind her. Instinctively her head whipped around.

She could swear there was a shadow that quickly disappeared in the rear of a tree trunk. Walking faster now, she cursed her mind for being extra imaginative. Although when she had herself fully convinced that it was just her mind conjuring hypothetical circumstances, a twig  snapped.

Her heart almost stopped there and then. Before she could collect her fear stricken, scattered thoughts and use her reflexes, she was pushed harshly into a tree. Her head was saved from crashing but she felt the rough edges of the trunk creating a bruise on her back.

The bruise and pain became a thing of past when she found a hand on her throat. Large and warm, it held the possession of her neck effortlessly. Afraid of what she might see, she raised  her eyes meeting the coal-black ones she encountered a few minutes earlier.

He had no difficulty in making out her features, the darkness never an obstacle. Slowly moving closer he took in her intoxicating aroma in one long breath. Hungrily, he sniffed her hairs, face and all around her neck.

As though snake venom was injected in her vain. She was paralysed. The man’s muscular body was glued onto hers. No matter how appropriate it seemed, given the current condition, she couldn’t bring herself to scream. Perhaps due to the fact that he had her life beneath his palm, a little pressure and she would be dead.

She sighed when he removed his hand from her throat though the relief was short lived because gripping her hair he jerked her head back n she winched.

Sh... He snarled n it was bloodcurdling, almost inhuman. There was no tongue in her mouth and she started trembling.

He buried his face in her neck. She had never been so close to a man before and right now she was really scared.

The one. The words echoed inside him. Do it.

Opening his mouth he licked the side of her neck n she felt the cool wetness.

She didn’t know what he was doing with his mouth but hissed when the sharp wave of pleasure ran through her whole body. Her toes curled n lids closed on their own as if she was  drugged.

His concentration broke hearing the sound of footsteps but he didn’t want to leave.

She was not ready. He looked at her and she was shivering from head to toe. Growling inwardly, he clenched his teeth. Giving her a last glance, he left.

Fearfully she opened her eyes n found no one there, bound to think if everything was just her hallucination. No way, she knew there was someone.

There was sound of people talking and she moved towards them.

Geet, there you are. I was looking for you everywhere. Garima told.

She would have found someone. Ria said swaying from side to side and giggling. See, I told ya Geet.

Oh! God please control your friend. Dhawal, Ria’s boyfriend said trying to make her stand straight.

Uh huh... Your girlfriend. Dipti commented.

Geet we have to go back. Ria can’t even stand properly. Garima said then turned towards Dhawal. Will you please drop us at the hostel?

Yeah sure. Dawal said moving with Ria towards the place where his car was parked. Dipti followed him.

Come one Geet. Garima said and noticed the lines of fear and tension on Geet’s forehead.What happened to you?

There... there was a man. Geet said distractedly pointing towards the tress.

What have you been drinking?

Nothing just coke. Geet answered holding Garima’s hand between her ice cold one.

May be someone spiked your drink. Garima said concerned. We shouldn’t have come here in first place.

No there was-

Its okay Geet, we’ll go home and everything would be fine. Garima pulled her along to where Dawal’s car was.

Geet just stared back. May be Garima was right it could all be her imagination but... he felt so real.

This bud of love by summer’s ripening breath, may prove a beauteous flower when next we meet
-William Shakespeare

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