A Day OutA Chapter by Swetha
A DAY OUT
"When will you be
back"? asked Sapna. "I am not sure Sapna but
will try to come as soon as possible", I assured her. "Only a month left now
Sunil. Is it really necessary for you to
go at this time"? "You know it is important
and I want to try every possible way". "You have been trying
from past three months. What difference
would it make now"? "It would because this
time I would be personally trying and don't you worry Sapna I will be back on
time". "You don't know anything
about her. How will you be doing
it"? "I don't know but I am
sure I will find her". "My parents will be
coming here to Madikeri next week. What
if they ask about you"? "Do I have to teach you
to handle these situations? You are good
at it". "You take care and drive
safely. Keep updating me, ok"? "As per your command
Mam". "I want you here at
least a week before the wedding".
I had to be back. After all how could I miss my own
wedding. But finding her was also more
important to me. She had completely
changed my life. Sapna was right, I was
trying to find her from past three months with no luck. So now I have set out on my own with little
information I had about her.
I am Sunil, aged 34, 6 feet
tall, light brown eyes, fair complexion, medium built, short light brown hair,
living in Bangalore. I am a business man
running my electronic industry that I inherited from my father many years
back. But over time I have worked really
hard and built my own empire. Lately I
have also been awarded as the best businessman.
I had lost my mom when I was
5 years and about 10 years back I lost my dad as well from where I took over
his business. I never liked people who
didn't take life seriously until I met her.
She changed my perspective about life.
From a angry young man she had changed me to a soft hearted and caring
person.
"Ok Sapna, I will call
you once I reach "Be back soon
Sunil. Love you".
Sapna is a wonderful person
and best companion anyone could have.
She has brown eyes, black hair falling onto her shoulders, 5.8 tall,
fair complexion and slim built. She is
aged 32, a successful interior decorator and runs her own firm. I know her for past 5 years now and she has
supported me in every aspect of my life.
Her dad is a well known
advocate in
I could have lost all this
for the person I was if not for her. That
one day had a deep impact on me. The memories
from that day are still embedded in me.
***************
"What!!! The flight
got cancelled, but how"? "They had some issues
which I am not sure of. They have
arranged for next flight but it's in the evening Sir", said my assistant
Anurag. "No use of it. The meeting is at 3. I will go by car". "Ok Sir, I will ask
the driver to...." "No need Anurag. I will drive myself. Its 8am and it takes at least 5 hours to
reach Chennai. I can't rely upon the driver". "But I guess it would
be stressful for you. He can drive you
before 2 Sir". "I said no Mr
Anurag. I hope its clear to you. This meeting is very important to me and I
don't want to take any chances. After so
many attempts, the client has finally agreed for this meeting". "Yes Sir, I will let
the Chennai people know about your changed plan". "That would be better
and also ask them to make some arrangements for my stay tonight". "Right away
Sir". "One more thing, this
meeting is very confidential". "Got it Sir".
Nothing was going right
for me from past few days. I was going
through some crisis on personal front which was indirectly affecting my
professional life.
This one client had kept
me hooked for a long time but today I would finally get him under my contract
and I am hoping all goes fine.
I was a typical
businessman with no time for unnecessary attachments. I had been engaged to Sapna. She wanted me to spend more time with her but
I used to be fully involved with my work.
Its not that I didn't love her but I was not the type to keep telling it
hundred times a day.
She is a very emotional
kind of person like any other girl who wanted me to do all those things that a
boyfriend would normally do. We started
to have frequent fights. Last night also
I had a big fight with her. She wanted
to spend this day with me as it was our anniversary but this client was very
important to me and I couldn't afford to cancel this meeting.
"Excuse me, Hi!! If
you don't mind can you give me a lift, thanks". A girl asks and jumps into
my car while I was waiting at the signal. "Hey what do you
think you are doing? Just get out". "Now come on dude,
you just have to drop me a bit further.
There is such a traffic today. I
couldn't find a single bus you see", she says again. "But I have some
important work. I can't change my route
to drop you". "No need of changing
your route. You go on your way. I will get down at one point". "But where do you
want to go"? "For now I just want
to get out of this traffic. See the
signal has also cleared now. Just move
man".
That girl had a blue eyes,
fair complexion, about 5.6 tall, slim built and very short hair. She had covered her head with a scarf. She was wearing a blue jeans with a red
top. She had one small tote with
her. She had earphones hanging from her
ears. With her looks she seemed like
some student and may be in her early 20s.
"Now will you tell
me, where will you get down"? I asked her. "Just keep on
moving. Anyways which way are you
going"? "That's none of your
business". "Ok ok, angry young
man huh"? "I am stopping
now. Now just get out". "Hey dude, have you
not been taught how to talk to a girl"? "Look I am getting
late and I don't have time for your silly talks". "Ok fine. I am going and dude get some life".
She gets down and goes her
way. I move on.
"Hey, you still
here"? I asked and moved my car next to her. "Does it matter to
you"? she says in a bit angry tone. "Well I thought if
you want to go still further"? "Are you sure? I
don't want to get kicked out again". "Get inside". "Thanks dude. Sorry all your car is wet now". "No issues. Where do you want to go"? "I was supposed to
meet a friend but now she has ditched me.
I don't want to go back home". "So what do you want
to do"? "Where are you going?
Now don't say its none of my business". "Chennai for a
business meeting". "Wow, can I accompany
you. I promise I won't disturb
you". "You want to come to
Chennai that too with someone you don't know at all. Don't you need to ask your parents"? "They are out of
town. No one at home. So am I coming with you"? "I don't think its a
good idea". "No worries. Sometimes we should go by the bad ideas you
see", she winked at me.
I was not very comfortable
about her coming with me to Chennai but somehow I didn't feel like stopping
her. This was may be because I was
meeting someone of this strange character for the first time in my life. Her attitude had surprised me.
"Dude, what are you
thinking"? she asked me seeing me lost. "Nothing". "Then come on lets
make a move". "Are you totally sure
about coming with me"? "Of course, I am 110%
sure. It will be a nice adventure for
both of us". "I am not here for
any adventure. I have an important
meeting to attend". "Ok ok, it will be an
adventure for me. Happy"? "As it suits
you".
****************
All the memories of that day
was coming back to me. She was a totally
carefree bird. Till date I never
understood how did she managed to come with me, a total stranger. But now when I think I am glad that she came
with me.
I had set out to search for
her with ample information I had about her.
I know finding her is not an easy task but I also know that it is not an
impossible task either. I didn't had her
photo, didn't know where she lived in
"Hello"? I answered
my phone. "Hello Sir, Anurag
here. What time would you be reaching
Sir"? "I would be reaching
around "I will be here till "Ok Anurag, see you then
and I want those list of colleges as well". "Its ready Sir. Not to worry".
Anurag is a sincere and
capable employee. I had never recognised
his hard work but he always did his job without any complaints. He is very good at his job and managed
everything very well.
Anurag is in his late 20s,
5.9 feet tall, medium built, not very fair complexion, black eyes, black hair
short and trimmed and always well dressed.
He is basically from Kerala. He is
not married but is into relationship from past 7 years. The girl is from different caste which is creating
a problem in both of their families. She
is also working in some bank. Anurag is the
only son to his parents and belonged to middle class family who had come to
I had told Anurag everything
about her and even he had tried every possible way to find her with no
luck. But now I would turn the luck in
my favour and track her down.
*****************
"Oh man this traffic
is not going anywhere", I told to myself. "Why are you getting
so tensed? Just chill dude", she said. "I have an important
meeting at 3 in Chennai. Its already "See you can't do
much about this traffic. Instead of
getting frustrated, just have a look outside.
Study others, try to figure out what's going on with them, enjoy this
weather and.....". "Oh will you please
keep quite now. You can't even imagine
how important is this meeting for me". "What will happen, at
the worst you might have to bear some loss.
What's the big deal? You will still be having enough to survive. Some have to struggle just to have one meal,
you know that". "Look I can't help
that and I don't have enough time to think about all that. Right now this meeting is very important to
me and I just want to get out of this traffic right away".
She gave me a stare for a
while and went back to listen to her music. "You can still think
about it. Do you really want to come
with me"? "Of course. I am not in a hurry". "Hey wait a minute!!!
How will you be coming back"? "With you of
course". "Are you out of your
mind. I will be staying there tonight
and no way you would be staying with me". "Chill dude, don't
worry. I will take a train or bus back". "Instead you better
get off somewhere. You can do something
better instead of getting stuck here in traffic". "If you want to get
rid off me, its fine. But I don't have
anything much to do". "As you wish. What do you do"? "I thought you will
never be asking. I am Neha doing my
final year graduation in Commerce and you"? "I am Sunil. I run my electronic business". "Hmm nice, you do
look like a businessman in all this formals, blazer and all".
Finally the traffic was
clearing. We were almost out of the city
when suddenly my car stopped. "Oh damn, what now?
Why this damn thing not starting now"? "I guess water might
have got into that". "Damn, where will I
find a garage now"? "Lets leave the car
here and find a mechanic. There must be
one, after all every corner has one or the other mechanic". "Ok, lets go".
We started in search of a
mechanic. Rain had stopped finally. We were walking for quite a while and finally
we found one garage. "Hey you, my car has
broken down. I need you to fix as soon
as possible. Don't worry about the money,
just fix the damn thing", I said to the mechanic in a very irritated tone. "They may be lower
than you but that doesn't mean you own them.
This is not the way you speak to them", she whispered to me.
She then asked that man in
a very polite manner to fix my car and he agreed to come with us to have a
look.
"Water has got into
it. There is also some problem in
engine. Have to take it to the garage",
the mechanic said. "Ok but how long will
it take"? I asked him. "At least three hours
Sir". "What!!! Three hours.
Can't you fix it right now"? "I am a mechanic Sir
not god". "But......",
before I could complete "Ok you take the car to
garage. We will come back later. Note down his number and give a call when the
car is ready", Neha said and gave him my number. "Now how I am going
to reach Chennai. Its already "Just chill dude, we
will take a bus. We can find so many on
that highway. Come on lets go". "Bus.. are you
serious? I have never travelled on bus". "There is first time
for everything. Now come on. He will take care of your car", she
pulled me to make me move. "Wait, I would better
call my assistant. He can arrange
something".
I started to dial his
number but Neha took away my phone. "What are you doing
girl? Give me back my phone", I almost yelled at her. "See you would never
get such a chance again. Just enjoy this
moment. Feel like a common man and come
with me. I promise you won't regret". "But I don't think we
will be able to reach on time". "Don't worry. You
will be fine. I will show you the
essence of life. Now come on dude". "You are not
understanding. This is not a joke. You are just a college kid. Once you are out, you will realise the true
meaning of struggle". "Are you sure you
will be alive to see tomorrow. Nothing
is permanent. Just live life to fullest
man. I promise you, you will never
forget this day. Mark my words".
***************
Lost in my thoughts I was
about to hit a tree now. She was right
about enjoying the life to fullest. Who
knows what's in store for us. Her simple
words had a deep meaning within. The way
she used to talk, it was hard to believe she was only 20 years old.
I was around 14 years elder
to her but still didn't know the exact meaning of life. That one day spent with her taught me the
essence of life. "Hello"? I answered
my call. "Hey, how far to
go"? asked Sapna. "Another two or three
hours". "You didn't stop
anywhere to revive"? "Well I didn't feel
like. The road was awesome to
drive". "But still Sunil, you
must give breaks. Stop for a while and then
start". "Ok ok, I will stop at
some dhaba or small hotel to eat something". "Good, do stop ok. Don't stress yourself". "Sure, you take
care. I will call you once I am
there".
*************
I don't know how she
managed to convince me but I was with her waiting for a bus. I had never travelled in a bus that too like
this where there was no clue whether we will find one or not. "Look over there,
some bus is coming. Lets wave our
hand", she said. "That looks like
yuck......" I said.
The bus stopped for
us. She asked if it goes to Chennai for
which he said it goes only till "There is no way I am
going in this bus", I said to her. "Do you have any
better option? Now stop this drama and get into the bus", she said and
pulled me to come with her.
The bus was packed to
full. There were people everywhere,
inside, near the driver and top of the bus.
I had never seen so many people in a bus in my entire life. With great difficulty the conductor arranged
two seats for us as Neha requested him seeing my plight.
"Oh my god, what a
bus. Its so congested", I said. "Why do you have
problem with everything"? she asked me. "Don't you think its
way too congested"? I asked her. "It is but why do you
have to blabber about it now. You
managed to get the seat, that's a big deal now". "Ya ya. I still don't understand why are you with me
or why I am with you"? "May be we were
destined to meet". "Ha, I don't believe
in such things". "But still you are in
one such situation now". "Ya damn, don't
believe this. But you created this
situation. Why is that"? "What to do, I have
fallen for you", she winked at me. "What!! Hello, I am
engaged". "See how soon you
came to conclusion. Don't be judgemental
and hey I was only kidding. You are way
too old for me". "I know that, you are
only a kid". "Stop calling me kid
every now and then ok. I have more
knowledge than you".
But somehow that bus
journey was not as bad as I had thought.
She was talking non stop and slowly I started to enjoy her company. "What do your parents
do"? I asked her. "They run orphanages
and old age homes". "Oh nice. Very good deed though". "Yes, what about your
parents"? "Well I lost my mom
when I was 5 and my dad died in an accident 10 years back. After that I took over his business". "Oh that's bad. So you don't have any brothers or sisters or
other family"? "No I don't have any
siblings. My other family members had
left me alone after my dad's death thinking I might depend on them financially. Now I don't need them. I have worked hard enough to earn what I am
today". "But don't you feel
like having a family or......". "I was busy setting
up my business. Never felt like having
anyone. More over I have my fiancee and
her family now". "Wow that's
good. When are you planning to get
married"? "Don't know, not yet
thought about it. There is still so much
to achieve before I settle down".
The bus had stopped for a
tea break. "Why aren't you
satisfied with what you have"? she asked me. "But what's wrong in
having more"? "There is nothing
wrong in having more. But how much do
you contribute towards the society"? "What do you mean? I
pay all my taxes". "That's your
duty. But have you ever helped anyone in
need or at least fed anyone in hunger. Have you helped any blind to cross the road,
you know, some petty things". "Well I have always
helped those who have asked for any favour". "That means you have
always waited for someone to ask. You
yourself have never realised it". "Well how can one know
if they don't talk about". "Let alone others, do
you know your own staff. Have you ever
listened to their concerns. Have you
ever had a friendly chat with them. I
guess no because the way you spoke to that mechanic made it quite evident about
you as an individual". ***********
I started from the hotel
after having some snacks as the lunch time had already passed and it was
She was right, I had never
helped anyone until someone had come to me in seek of any help. I had never shared a friendly relationship
with my staff. I always considered them
as subordinates working for me. I never
tried to understand their problems. I
had never stopped by to help some blind or an old age person cross the
road. When there were people begging
near my car at any traffic signal, I never cared to open my car window and
offer some help to them. Let alone help
I never cared to have a look at them.
These were some petty things
we don't think about but when someone makes you realise these things, it
affects you deeply. It makes you think
for a while what you are as an individual, which forced me to think that day. ************
To add more to my day, the
bus's tyre punctured and our bus stopped just few kilometres away from "Its just about 2kms
from here. Lets walk. There is no point in waiting". "I guess so. Lets do this also". "As I promised you,
this will be a memorable day for you". "With so many things
happening, how could one forget this day". "You are complaining
again"? "There is no point in
complaining now. I don't think I would
be able to bag that deal". "Memories are far
more precious than any deal Mr Sunil". "You can say that as
you are still in college". "The way you are I
don't think you were carefree during your college days". "I had lot of
responsibility. There was no time for
these things". "We should always
make time for what we like doing about.
Live like there is no tomorrow.
Responsibilities can always be taken care of".
With all that talking we
reached
I had always heard about
this temple but never been though I had travelled this route several
times. Sapna always insisted to go here
but due to my busy schedule it never really happened. But now I was here in some unimaginable
situation with a girl about whom I don't have any clue at all. God knows when and how to call us to him.
"Wow!! What a
beautiful place. Have you ever been
here"? asked Neha. "No this is my first
time". I said. "What!! You are I
guess about 33 or 34 years and in these many years, you have not at all been to
this temple even once"!!! "What's so odd in it?
Never had such occasion. Even for you
its a first time". "With me its
different. But you had all the
privilege. Anyways, come on lets go
inside". "Make it bit
fast. I have to reach Chennai
also". "Ok ok, but don't you
think its bit too late now". "Ya I know but I have
postponed for an hour. So I still have
chance". "Hmm, but first enjoy
this moment here. Its so divine. Don't you feel relaxed here". "It sure does and I
am grateful for you that you got me here". "Anytime dude. Wow everything is so beautiful here. Hey we will have the prasadam and go
ok". "But I don't have
enough time for that". "Then make time, I am
super hungry you see. Can't wait any
longer now".
We stood in a line for
prasadam. All this was a whole new
experience for me. She was showing me a
world which I never thought existed. "Yum, isn't it
wonderful"? she asked. "Sorry I didn't
realise you were hungry". "Its ok dude. No complaints now though. The food is so delicious". "You know you are one
typical character. With all your cool
type looks I thought you are one spoilt, careless brat but you are so different
Neha". "Wow thanks if that
was a compliment. Well you are also not
that bad as you pretend to look like". "Oh really, thanks
for that. Shall I ask you
something"? "Go on, you can ask
me anything". "Why have you kept
your hair so short? I mean normally girls love long hair right"? "Ho ho, how many
girls you know Mr? Anyways I like looking different from others. You just now said that I am one typical
character", she winked at me.
**************
I reached "Here are your keys and
this is the list of colleges you had asked for Sir", says Anurag. "Thank you Anurag. I really appreciate it. You can now leave".
I call Sapna to inform about
my safe arrival. "Hello Sapna"? "Did you reach"?
she asks me. "Yes just now. Going home now. Will start from there tomorrow". "Hmm, all the best
Sunil. Hope you find her".
Yes, I needed those best
wishes very badly. I was trying to find
someone only with a hope in my heart. I
had always been adamant on things I wanted.
This was one such thing. I wanted
her at any cost, either by hook or by crook.
I was not going to let go this time.
She had to be with me while going back from here.
**************
We finished our prasadam.
We had god darshan and then proceeded towards the bus stand from where we had
to catch the bus for Chennai. "It was very
nice. Thanks", she thanked me. "Why are you thanking
me"? I asked her surprisingly. "To bringing me
here. I am so grateful to you". "Well I didn't get
you, we came by chance you see". "Hmm but still, you
were the reason for it. Had I not met
you today, then I might have never come here". "Well, which college
you study"? "Looks like someone
wants to know everything about me huh"? "Nothing like
that. Just keeping on with the
conversation you see". "Then lets talk
something about you". "Like"? "Hmm, what are your
hobbies"? "Well, good
question. No one ever asked me this in a
long time now". "Now don't say you
don't have any hobbies dude".
I decided to hire a car
from "Luckily found this
car. I had to urge him to let me drive
by paying more. Thank goodness for
that", I said after hiring a car. "Why do you want to
attend this meeting so badly"? she asked me. "Because I have been
trying for this deal from quite a long time now. Finally they are ready to meet me". "Do you know
something, the more we urge for something, the more we get disappointed. Just let it go and do your work, if you are
destined to get then no matter what you will get it". "But I don't like
giving up. I will try and try until I
win". "Are you in a race
with someone here. Why do you want to
win, what or to whom do you want to prove anything"? "It gives me
pleasure. I feel happy". "Without enjoying
life's best moments with your loved ones, what's the use even if you win an
entire empire. You can always earn money
but you can never get those special moments back".
It again started raining
but not heavily though. "How did you meet
your fiancee"? she asked me. "She is an interior
decorator. We met during one of her
workshop event where I was the guest". "Was it love at first
sight"? "What!! No, I mean I
liked her work. She is really good at
her job. So I gave her contract for one
part of my office which I wanted to renovate". "So you started to
meet daily, spend more time with each other and finally you were in love
right"? "Not exactly. We started to meet daily of course but our
conversations always included only work related matters. She was seeing someone at that time". "Oh, then how did it
clicked between you"? "For few days she
took off from work. I mean her workers
were there but she was not coming to check the work". "And.......". "You want to know all
the details, don't you"? "Only if you want
to".
I then started to tell her
about my love story. Sapna had took off
from work for few days. I gave her a
call to check if everything was fine.
She didn't answer my calls. So I
directly went to her house to check with her.
She was in a terrible state. Her
eyes were all red and swollen. It seemed
like she was crying for a long time. I
then asked her about the matter. She
initially tried to brush off but when insisted she opened up. She said how her boyfriend had ditched her to
get married to someone from the States so that he could settle overseas. She was seeing him for about an year and also
been physical with him. She cried and
cried hugging me. I consoled her saying
not to worry and there is no point in crying for someone like him. It was the first time I had ever talked to
any girl like that. She was shocked to
hear that I never had any relationships.
I was so involved with my work and business I never really found time
for emotional bonding. We then regularly
started to see each other and I started enjoying her company. Then after about 2 years I finally proposed
her. ***************
"Yes Sapna, I am on my
way to check with the colleges", I answered on phone. "Ok but there are so
many colleges in Bangalore Sunil". "I know but there is no
other way. I don't want to leave any
stone unturned". "Ok, keep me
updated". "Sure sure".
I still remember the day when
I had proposed Sapna. She was so happy
and excited. She is a very easy person
to talk to. She always gave me my
space. But still I have hurt her so many
times. I never understood her at times
but she was always there for me. The
first time we made love I was totally lost in her. She is every man's dream but I am the lucky
one to have her. If not for that day I
would have lost Sapna.
Now I was on my way to first
college in
************
"Wow, amazing but bit
of boring love story", said Neha once I had done with my story. "Boring, what's so
boring in that"? "Well, not very
romantic. Do you go on regular candle
light dinners or celebrate your love anniversary or something of that
sort"? "I don't have time
for all these things you see. We do go
out on dinners. In fact today is our
third anniversary". "What!!! Are you
serious"? she jumped from the seat. "Hey cool, this day
comes every year. What if we celebrate
after two days or so. This meeting was
very important to me as well". "Dude, if I were your
girlfriend, believe me I would have left you by now. I mean I understand work is important but
what's the use of earning so much when you don't have time for the one you
love". "These all look good
in movies. Actual life is totally
different. You are living in a dream
world". "May be but you are a
big dreamer than I am. You want to
attend some meeting you are not even sure of being successful. Just think, is it worth breaking someone's
heart"?
These words from her
changed something in me. She was
right. Was it worth it. It was "Hello, am I talking
to Mr. Vasu"? I asked on phone pulling my car to one side. "Yes Sir, what time
you will be reaching"? "See I don't think I
would be able to make it. So just cancel
the meeting and fix it some other day". "But Sir, if
cancelled today then it would take a long time to get another
appointment". "I know but I can't
make it today. Just cancel the
appointment". "Are you sure
Sir"? "Yes Mr. Vasu, please
do it".
Neha was shocked to see me
cancelling my important meeting for which I had took all this pain. Being few hours with her I was slowly
starting to realise the real meaning of life.
One project gone would not have made much difference. I should have realised it much earlier but
better late than never. So I decided the
rest of the day to spend with Neha to see the world through her eyes.
"I don't believe
this!! You cancelled your meeting", she was asking me. "Yes, there is no way
I could make it on time". "So what next
now"? "First we will go
back and return this car. From there we
will take a bus back to "You in bus again,
are you sure"? "Yes I am sure. Half of the day gone, lets spend the next
half in your way. To the
fullest...." "Dude, you are
amazing. I don't believe I was able to
change your mindset". "So, will you show me
the real world then"? "Of course dude. I will show you how to live life to the
fullest, to live like there is no tomorrow".
We then went back and
returned the car at
"So did you call your
fiancee"? she asked me waiting at the bus stop. "No, why are you
asking"? "Call her and ask for
sorry". "But its too late now
and....." "Better late than
never, have you not heard about it. I am
sure she would forget everything and will be very happy". "How do you know
that"? "Because I am also a
girl and one sorry from a boyfriend makes all the difference". "Oh, that means you
too have someone". "Well that I will
tell you later. But for now call
her". "Ok, if you
insist". I called Sapna. She was shocked to hear me. Before I could apologise she started to say
sorry about her behaviour and she said she should have understood it was
important to me. For the first time I
felt disgusted about myself. I then cut
her in between and apologised to her. As
Neha said, she was very happy and also shocked because I had never apologised
to her or anyone. ***************
"What's the name"?
the office clerk in the college asked me after convincing him for a while. "Its Neha". "Neha what, what's the
surname"? he asked me again. "Sorry I don't know her
surname". "What Sir, there will be
so many Nehas. You don't know her
surname. At least do you know which
branch she is in"? "I think Commerce. Search in final year Commerce". "Ok give me a second
please". He started to search in his
register. This was the 10th college I
was searching and there was no luck yet.
Everywhere they used to ask the same question, "what's the
surname"? For the first time in my life I realised how important is
someone's surname. I had only given them
information about her branch Commerce, her first name and that her parents run
some orphanage and old age homes. Here
also he didn't find any Neha. I had to
go empty handed from here also. ***************
"You were right,
Sapna was very happy". I said to Neha. "See I told you. Not only this you have to arrange something
special for her once you reach "Like what. I am not very good at these things". "Hmm, I don't know
what she saw in you to fall in love with you.
You are not at all romantic". "Oh please, I don't
know to express but I do love her". "Then just think
everyday like you will be meeting her for the last time. What all would you do". "But why would I be
meeting for the last time". "Because if you stay
the same, then one or the other day she is definitely going to leave you. Every girl has some dreams. She loves you, supports you in every aspect
and in return asks only for your love and time.
Is that too much.. There is
nothing wrong in expressing your love.
Just express and see how she will glow.
Trust me, your boring life could turn into interesting one".
We then got into bus to "Ok now enough about
me. Tell something about you now",
I asked her. "What you want to
know, about my love life"? "Ya if you want
to". "Well I have never
been in any serious relationship though I had few boyfriends. I just recently broke up with one guy". "Oh, may I know the
reason. You don't have to answer if its
too personal". "Don't be so formal
dude. Well he had many expectations
which I knew I wouldn't be able to fulfil". "Like..." "Like he wanted to
get married, have kids and blah blah....". "And you didn't
wanted that"? "Dude, who knows what
happens next. We are not sure about next
moment then how can we plan long term commitments. Like for example, did you know that you will
be cancelling your important meeting and will be stuck with a girl who is a
total stranger to you? No right, then how could I have promised him all those
things".
She was right, too much
expectations from life was also not good.
We plan something but life has some other plans for us. "How many girls did
you date before your fiancee"? she asked me. "None". "What!! But why, I
mean you are not bad by your looks. Oh
may be because of your attitude I guess". "Nothing like
that. There were few girls crazy about
me during my college days but I was not interested". "Hmm, shall I ask
something personal now"? "What's that"? "You didn't make out
with any girl before your fiancee"? "Well to be honest, I
had been physical with one girl in college.
That's it. After that it was only
with Sapna". "Hmm, was she from
your college"? "Yes, she was from my
class itself and she was trying with me for a long time. That day also it would have not been happened
if I had not been drunk". "Oh, you lost your
senses. Share the details please, I will
not tell to anyone".
I knew Neha wouldn't let
it go unless I told her everything. So I
told her about my first ever physical relationship. She was from my class and she had a huge
crush on me. I knew that. She was very beautiful and had many guys go
crazy for her. I liked her but not in other
way. That day was our send off party as
we were in our final year. We all were
having a blast. I usually don't drink
much but that day all my friends forced me for drinks and I drank like a
fish. She asked me for a dance. After sometime I was feeling uneasy so she
took me to her place. She used to rent
an apartment. I was lying on a
couch. She came next to me and held my
hands. She then slowly kissed me on my
cheeks. First I tried to push her but
then she again came close to me. She
then kissed me on my lips. She took my
hands and put it around her waist. She
put her arms around me. That's it, there
was no stopping after that. We had sex. But the next morning I made it clear to her
that it was only a mistake. She said not
to worry and it was only fun. She had
only crush on me and nothing serious.
**************
"I have covered almost
25 colleges now. Still no luck", I
was telling to Sapna on phone. "Don't stress too much
Sunil. Go home and take some rest. You can start again tomorrow". "Ya you are right. It's "You will find her
Sunil. Don't worry". "Thanks Sapna and thanks
for letting me do this. No one could
have understood better than you. I love
you, take care". "Love you too
Sunil".
First day had gone without
any luck. I was bit frustrated but it
was not time to get frustrated. Sapna
had given me full support. After all
every girl wants her better half to be on her side with wedding shopping but
here I had left her alone to take care of everything. She is a gem of person.
I came back home. I prepared myself some dinner and then after
watching television for sometime I went to sleep to start all over again
tomorrow. ***********
"Wow, interesting
man. If she was so beautiful why didn't
you wanted to have any relationship with her"? Neha asked me after I
finished telling her all that. "Well, I never got
such feelings for her. More over she was
not my type". "And what's your
type? May be someone who will always talk to you about work related or business
deals right"? "Please, I am not
that boring also. At least not in
college". "Hmm, you know the
guy with whom I recently broke up, was one of the best guy I had ever met. He loved me deeply and I felt very bad to break
up with him". "You could have
explained your situation to him". "My situation, then
there would have been another problem", she almost said to herself.. "Sorry come
again", I didn't hear her properly. "Nothing, god I want
to go to toilet. When will this driver
stop man". "Oh should I ask him
to stop". "No its ok, he may
stop anytime now".
As soon as she said the
bus halted for sometime. "Wow, I feel so
relaxed now", she said as if she had won something. "Can make out by the
look on your face". "Don't you want to go
to toilet"? she asked me. "No I am fine". "I know, you have the
habit of going to only neat and clean toilets but dude learn to adjust yourself
to any situation. Life becomes
easier". "But seriously I
don't feel like going". "Ok as you wish but
hey come on lets have a coffee". "Here, in this
stall"? "Again making
faces. You said you want to see the real
life right. Now come on this is the real
life. You wouldn't have had better coffee
than this". "You sure"? "Absolutely. All your five star coffees are nothing in
front of this. I bet you will love
it. Now come on dude". "Ok lets see this
also. After all who can win you in these
arguments". "Very funny. Now come", and she drags me to go with
her.
She was right. That coffee tasted very nice. Something like a real coffee. She also taught me the art of having the
coffee. "See hold like this
and now pour the coffee onto the saucer", she was guiding me to drink a
coffee in a full local manner. "Ok, like this"? "Yes, now drink from
the saucer like this, slurp...", she made sound almost audible to most of
the people around. But when I turn
around almost everyone were drinking the same way. "Wow, this does taste
good. How do you know all these
things"? "Well I travel a lot
you see. These are all petty things but
life's most fun moments lies in these petty things dude". "You are right. Everyone should learn from you to lead a life. Wish all could get a fate like you". "Like me? No dude, no
one should get a fate like me". "What do you mean"? "I mean drink your
coffee fast because the bus will be leaving anytime now". "Oh yes,
slurp..........".
We then got back into the
bus. "Dude, don't you have
any special quality in you. I mean
everyone has one or the other thing.
Like me, I love talking to strangers and making new friends", she
asked me. "Well I was a great
artist. I used to do sketches of
people". "What do you mean by
was, don't you do now"? "Now, well after
dad's death I got so involved with business, I don't really remember when was
the last time I sketched something". "Then no problem, I
will give you a chance. Sketch my
picture". "Neha we are in a bus
now. And I don't think I have it in me
anymore". "Talents never get
lost anywhere Mr. I am sure you can
still sketch. Even a moving bus can't
stop you. Now come on". "I don't have paper
or pencil or........". "Excuses and
excuses. Here have this paper and
pencil. My bag always contains all these
things. You know I will not let it
go". "You are
impossible. Ok, I will try but don't
laugh if its not good".
***************
I suddenly get up in the
middle of night and remember about the sketch.
How could I have been so stupid.
Its true I didn't had her photo but how foolish of me to forget that I could
actually sketch her picture. I remember
exactly how she looked like.
I get up and take a sheet of
paper and pencil and start to sketch her picture. I try to sketch her exactly the way she
looked like the other day. Short hair
covered with scarf, ear phones hanging from ears, pointed nose, oval shaped
eyes and small lips. Yes I remember each
and every feature of hers. I don't believe
I forgot about my own talent.
After trying out for few
times, about two hours later, I was ready with her sketch. I was happy with my work. She looked exactly the same. Now with this sketch of hers, it would get
bit easier with her search. I didn't had
her full name but now I had her sketch with me.
Whole new search for her tomorrow and this time I was sure I would find
her.
***************
"Wow!! I didn't know
I look so beautiful", she said looking at her sketch I drew for her. "You like it"? "Of course I like
it. Thank you so much. You have an amazing talent and you were
having second thoughts about it". "I didn't know
either. I think its been 10 years or
more I sketched something". "You should always
take time to do something you enjoy about.
Don't you love sketching". "I do, it gives me
immense pleasure. I will make sure I
will do it often now". "What else you
enjoy"? "Hmm, not sure of
anything else". "Have you ever tried
eating an ice cream getting wet in rain". "What!! No,
never. What's so fun about it. You can fall sick like that". "Oh you should try
that. Why fear of getting sick. You can fall sick without doing anything like
that". "But
still.....". "Your ifs and buts
never end. Once we get down if its
raining, I will show you the enjoyment of eating ice cream while getting
wet".
We soon reached "Hoo hoo, thank you
rain god", she said. "Oh no, come
fast". "What fast, don't you
like getting wet. Its so awesome. Just forget about all the consequences and
enjoy this rain dude". "Ok, lets have an ice
cream as well then". "Wow, you are improving
Mr. Look over there, there is a
shop. Come on".
We bought an ice cream and
then she started to teach me how to enjoy an ice cream in this wet weather.
"Now come on, lets
eat before the rain stops". "Ok ok, so how do you
do that". "Just start to eat
ice cream when its raining. The fresh
water mixes with the ice cream giving it a beautiful essence. Just have a feel and become a kid all over
again. You will love it". "Ok let me try and
see".
I was doing some crazy
things with her but frankly speaking I was enjoying each and every moment with
her. I never knew life could be so much fun
with these petty things. She taught me
life's best moments lied in these small things.
We then went to collect my
car.
"Will you do
something if I ask you"? she asked me before we could reach the garage. "What"? "Just appreciate the
mechanic for his work and also apologize to him for your rude behaviour in the
morning". "Thanking is ok but
morning I was bit upset". "But now you are alright. You see it right or not I am not sure. But for me all are equal. We should never degrade people lower than us
or working under us. They may be doing
some petty jobs but just think if they don't do these petty jobs how would rich
people like you survive. If the chef
don't cook for you, what will you eat.
You should always appreciate for others hard work".
She was teaching me some
deep meanings of life. These are the
simple things we used to learn as kids in school that all are equal. No one is superior. But honestly speaking how many of us actually
inculcate this attitude. Its human tendency to forget. In this race of life, we so easily forget the
actual meaning of being a human. "Good evening Sir,
your car is ready. I tried calling you
Sir but your phone was not reachable", the mechanic says as soon as we
reach. "Oh, thank you so
much for your help. I am also very sorry
for my behaviour in the morning", I say to him. "Its ok Sir. We are used to such things. But very few like you apologise. Not to worry about it Sir", he says and
feels very happy that I apologised to him.
That happiness which I saw
on his face gave some contentment to me at which point I realised, our
happiness always lies when we are the reason behind someone's happiness.
****************
"Yes Sapna, I should
have realised it much earlier", I was talking to Sapna over phone and
telling her about my sketch. "Its good that you have
her picture now. It will be a great
help". "Yes I know. I will first cover up other colleges. If no luck then I will again go back to the
ones which I had covered yesterday". "That's a good
idea. But do have your regular breakfast
and lunches in between. Just don't skip
everything". "Of course, I am in fact
having my breakfast now. How's
everything there"? "All good. Dad had called last night. They will be coming at the end of this
week". "Oh, did he ask about
me"? "Yes he did, but don't
worry I said you are out on some business work and will be back soon". "Thanks Sapna, I owe you
a lot for all this". "When this formality
came between us. I know how important
she is to you and for me as well. Its
because for her I have my caring Sunil today.
Love you, bye".
***************
The car was perfectly back
to shape. By the time we collected the
car from him it was
"Here Mam, we have a
car now. What next"? I asked her. "You apologised to
him only because I asked you or you really felt like", she asked me. "Well both. You asked after which I realised. You are one amazing person Neha". "Hmm, then will you
do everything I would ask for this one day, or say for another few hours"? "What else you want
me to do"? "I want to eat chats
but not in any hotel". "Then"?????? I
knew where this was going. "Roadside, it tastes
better than in hotel". "Ya I am sure, same
like that coffee right"? "Please, see we have
only few more hours together and I want to make this memorable". "Ok ok, lets
go".
We then moved from there
in search of some roadside chats for Neha.
There was no point in turning her down.
What all she meant was indeed true and so I thought of trying this out
as well.
"Isn't it
delicious"? she asked me having her panipuri. She was having like she didn't had anything
to eat from past few days. "Ya it is", I
said having mine. "Be honest, do you
like it or not"? "Really I am enjoying
it. Its very tasty", I was really
enjoying that. It was indeed very
delicious but I couldn't ignore the cleanliness though. "See I told you, and
please don't bother about cleanliness. I
am sure you won't fall sick". "Hopefully. You can have more if you want". "Of course, I am
going to have more", and she tells the man to serve her until she says to
stop.
Neha had a great appetite
I must say. Looking at her I was not
sure where she belonged to. In the upper
class or middle class. The way she
dressed showed her to be some rich dad's spoilt brat but the way she behaved
proved her to be very down to earth person.
I was still confused but somewhere I was glad that I met her today and
because of her I was seeing and experiencing all this. I had no regret of cancelling my meeting.
"What!! Are you sure
but how did this happen"? I was asking Mr Vasu over my phone. "Yes Sir. I explained
them about your situation and they themselves agreed to have a meeting in "Well that's a great
news Mr Vasu, and thanks for handling the situation".
Mr Vasu had called to
inform about the meeting I had cancelled.
Mr Vasu had presented them with brief knowledge about our proposal and
they were happy about it. So now they
wanted to have a personal meeting with me that too here in
I didn't believe that all
this while I was crazily working out hard to have a contract with them, it came
just like that when I had lost all hopes about it. Neha was true, the more we long for
something, the more we get disappointed.
We should only do what we can and if we are destined to get that, then
no matter what it will eventually come to us.
As she said, focus on work, success will automatically follow you. My hard work had payed off.
"That's wonderful
news, you owe me a treat now", she said after I shared about the meeting
news. "Of course. Anything you ask for". "Wow, I am so happy
for you. See I told you if you are
destined to get it, then no one can stop it". "Yes, you were
right. The moment I forgot all about
that I get the news from them. Its so
amazing. I am feeling at the top of the
world now. So tell me how shall we
celebrate this". "Lets go to lakeside
in Sankey tank. It will not be crowded
also at this time". "Its already "My deadline is "But what will you
tell your parents. I know they are out
of town but what if they call you at home to check". "Don't worry dude. I know to handle all these situations. First lets go instead of wasting time
here. And hey lets get some drinks on
the way. No celebration is complete
without drinks you see", she winks at me.
**************
It was "Yes Sir, what did you say the name is"? asks the office
clerk. "Its Neha, final year Commerce department". "Hmm, let me check. Neha,
neha, neha...." and he goes on with his search. "There is no Neha in the final year Sir. But we had one Neha last year who suddenly
dropped out this year by choice". "Dropped out!! Which department was she in"? "Same, commerce Sir. Its
Neha K. She just took TC at the
beginning of this year without giving any proper reason". "Did she look like this"? I asked him showing him Neha's
picture. "Hmm, oh yes she is the one.
Very bright student though. She
had highest scores last year".
***************
As per Neha's wish we reached Sankey tank. Since it was a week day and had been raining
whole day, there was no much crowd.
"This place will close soon now", I told her looking at the
timings near the entrance. "We still have one full hour dude.
So come on". "Its nice here. Lets sit
here". "No, this is so much close to the entrance. Lets go bit further". "Ok.......". "Here, its nice and calm here.
Come on, lets sit here". "I still insist you give a call to your parents to inform
them. They would get worried". "Chill dude, I will handle them". "Are you allowed to drink"? "I am over 18 years and its legal to drink at this age". "But how will you explain your parents"? "Don't worry, as I said I am special. So no rules apply for me". "But don't drink too much so that you lose your senses".
Sankey tank is one of the major lakes in
The main attractions of this tank are it includes swimming pool and
forest department nursery. There is also
boat rides in the water of the tank.
We both sat without talking to each other for sometime and were enjoying
the scenic place. The last time I had
been here was with Sapna on our first date as she insisted to visit this place.
We both were mesmerized in the beauty of this place. With very less crowd and a cool weather it
was a perfect time to enjoy this place.
I don't remember when was the last time I was so relaxed and contended
in my life.
"What are you thinking"? I asked Neha who was sitting quite
for a while now. "Nothing, just wondering about god's creation and feeling bad for
those who don't get to see this". "Everything and everyone can't be perfect you see". "True, they say all this depends on our karma". "Yes it does. But why are you thinking about all this now". "Just wondering if I have done enough of good karma". "You are one nice hearted person I have ever met. You always think about others. Don't you think its your good karma". "Don't know, but.......... Anyways, sorry. Sometimes I get bit emotional. My friends say it doesn't suit me". "They are right. You look
good when you are smiling. Don't ever
let that smile fade away from your face". "Ok, then lets start celebrating now. I so badly want those drinks". "You better watch out. I am
not going to let you get drunk, ok"?
We both started off with our drinks.
Neha was a crazy drinker. But I
didn't allow her to have much as she had to return to her place in proper
condition. "Who are you"? I asked her. "After spending one full day with me you are asking who I am"? " I mean, you are a total stranger to me. You suddenly jump into my car from nowhere. I then comeback to you to offer a lift. Some funny situations take place. You show me the real life. I am not complaining but just wondering how
all this happened". "Don't think too much dude.
Just consider me as your long lost friend. After sometime I will be gone and you will
also get going with your life". "But I would never forget this day.
My life will not be the same anymore now". "Are you happy with this change". "Very much. I have never
been so crazy in my entire life. There
is a reason for it you see". "You can share anything with me dude. Consider me as your secret treasurer".
**************
I just couldn't believe what I was hearing. I had finally found her!!! Is this man really
talking about same Neha. Why did she
drop out. So many questions were
arising. I had asked for more details from him for which he said I had to take
permission from the principal. They just
can't disclose about someone like that. And
for my luck, the principal was on leave and would be returning only after two
days. I was not in a position to wait
any longer now. She was so close to me
yet so far. I decided to ask from her
friends.
Lunch time had crossed and classes had already commenced. So the only option for me was to wait till
the classes finish. If Neha had
discontinued then why didn't she tell me.
Why did she lie to me. I accept I
was a total stranger to her but then we had shared some good moments
together. I also had shared some secrets
with her. Didn't she believe me. All that I wanted to know now was why did she
lie to me?
****************
"Ok, where shall I start from.
I have never talked about these things to anyone. Not even to Sapna", I say to her. "Sometimes everything can't be shared with your partner. That's when friends come you see". "Friends, I don't remember if I have one". "You don't have any friends!! Seriously"? "Well not someone with whom I can share my feelings. Most of them are with me because of my
status". "Then you can consider me as your best buddy for today". "Only today"? "I don't believe in attachments you see. If we are destined to meet again, we will
meet". "Then how do you find friends.
This way each day you will be having a new friend". "That's me. I like making
new friends but I don't believe in bonding with them. Everyday new faces and believe me some days I
find old faces as well". "And in college, don't you have friends there or not"? "Well no one very close though".
She tells me that she has no close relationship with any of her friends. But she will always be there if they need
her. She doesn't keep any contact with
anyone but all are her friends. She
doesn't like sharing all the matters but yes she likes listening to others.
"So what do you do when you feel very lonely or depressed at
times"? I ask her. "That happens very rarely with me but if I feel low, then I just
start reading a book or get away somewhere to explore something, or make new
friends". "Hmm, quite interesting. Is
there no one you share your thoughts or talk to"? "There is , I talk to myself.
They say no friend is better than you yourself. I am my best friend. I get immense relief when I talk to myself". "How is that possible"? "It is dude. You have to
talk to yourself at times. You will be
amazed to meet yourself. You will find
out what are you as an individual. And
you also should laugh daily. There is a
saying, the most wasted day of all is the one when you have not laughed".
She had some great knowledge.
With her I was getting to learn so many things. I had never met anyone like her till
date. Her knowledge was par beyond her
age.
"You are amazing Neha", I say to her. "That I am", she
giggles. "So what is your
biggest dream in your life"? "I want to travel the
whole world but I know its not possible". "Why is it not
possible. Once you have finished your
studies, you can take up some travel related course and achieve your
dream". "Ya ya, but you know
what the problem is, I don't have enough patience to wait till then you
see". "You are only 20
Neha, you have an entire life ahead you...." "Entire life....ya
let's see where this life takes me". "You have had
enough. No more drinks now". "But dude, I want to,
please....". "I said no". "Ok, hey you were to
share something with me, now come on tell me".
I started to tell her
about my childhood. After I lost my mom,
my childhood was very lonely. My dad
always used to be away because of his business.
I used to be with maternal grandparents most of the time. I used to miss my dad a lot. I was bought up in a way where more
importance was given to money. My dad
never used to miss a single business meeting for any occasion. Growing up in this environment I started to
believe that nothing is more important than money. I was allowed to play only with the kids of high
society but they were never interested in playing. With each passing year I started to keep away
from everyone. I didn't like making
friends because I knew at one point they would leave me. Before I could realise my dad passed away in
an accident. Whole his business
responsibility came on my shoulders. In
attempt to flourish his business I forgot that I too have a personal life. I still wonder what has kept Sapna with me
till date because I have never really spent quality time with her. For me making
money was the only passion.
*****************
"Yes she is Neha. But she dropped out this year. She was a bright student though", one of
the girl said when I showed her Neha's sketch. "Do you know where she
lives"? I ask that girl. "She used to live in
college hostel. She said her hometown
was " "Yes but she rarely went
to her home. I mean she used to go only
during long vacation at the end of the year". "Can you give me more
details about her"? "Sorry, I don't know
much about her. In fact no one knows
much about her. She never shared
anything with us. The only thing she
talked to anyone included only study related matters". "Didn't she have any
best friend or....."? "As I said she was
somewhat different. She used to live in
her own world. But yes she had one
boyfriend as far as I know". "Can you tell me where
can I find him now"? "His name is
Vishal. Right now I guess he will be in
canteen". "Thanks a lot
again".
****************
"I thought all kids with
big house, lots of toys, lots of servants to look after are always happy",
she said after listening to my story. "Its not necessary
all kids with all luxuries are happy.
What's the use of such luxuries when your parents don't have time for
you". "Hmm, then why didn't
you try to come out of it". "Where would I go and
I had started to believe this is the only way of life. Because I had never really seen the outer
world which you showed me today". "I am glad I could
make you happy". "Who all are there in
your family"? "My family, my
parents and me". "You don't have any
siblings"? "No, but whenever I
feel like having a sister or brother, do you know what I do"? "What"? "I just go to that
orphanage run by my parents. I play with
them, talk to them, eat with them. They
feel so happy and thank me but the fact is they are giving me happiness by
letting me play with them. Its so hard
without parents, right"?
For the first time in this
entire day I saw pain in Neha's eyes.
"Hey, you became
emotional again", I said to her. "Sorry, was just
thinking about those who don't have any family". "Don't think too
much. You look good when bubbly. This sad face doesn't suit you". "Hmm, I know. Here
back to being myself", and she laughed. "That's better. Another 10 minutes and we have to get out of
here". "The day went just
like that". "Yes but you have
given me the best memories of my life which I would never forget". "Anytime dude. I have also enjoyed a lot with you. So what will you be doing for tonight"? "Tonight"??? "You said its your
third anniversary right, won't you do anything special". "Oh, but where's the
time now. Whole day is gone". "But you still have
whole night dude. Don't be such a
bore".
Neha insisted I should do
something special for Sapna like taking her to dinner or something like
that. Even I wanted to spend some
quality time with Sapna.
"Ok, I will take her
to dinner tonight. I will just call her
and ask her to get ready. She will be
very happy", I said. "Don't be stupid
dude. She will be more happy if you
don't give her a call". "Now what does that
mean"? "I mean give her a
surprise dumbo". "Surprise!! You mean
take her to dinner without any prior notice"? "Are you going on any
business meeting or taking your business partner so that you have to give any
notice and all, its your fiancee man". "But what if she has
other plans". "Just seeing you at
her door, I am sure she will cancel all her plans. Mark my words she will be super happy
dude". "But......" "Again but, just be
spontaneous. You don't have to be formal
always, at least not with your loved ones".
Neha was right. Sapna would be thrilled to see this new side
of me. "Ok, now come
on. I will drop you to your place".
I said as we reached my car parked outside Sankey tank. "No dude, I will
carry on from here". "Neha its already
late and....." "No issues. My house is walkable from here. You don't worry". "But still, I don't
think its safe. I mean.." "I am a brave girl
man. Don't worry about me. And you take care. It was one fun filled day for me". "It was for me as
well. Can we be in touch"? "You know I don't
believe in all this right. If we are
destined to meet again, we will meet". "What if I feel like
talking to you or seeing you"? "Just close your eyes
and talk to yourself. Believe me you
will feel more relaxed". "But I will track you
down Neha. Not sure when but yes I will
get you". "Well then, good luck
to you", she kissed me and bid good bye.
**************
Neha lived in hostel. Her hometown was
I went to canteen in search
of Vishal, her boyfriend according to that girl. Hopefully he would know more details about
her. She was becoming a mystery to me
and I at any cost wanted to solve this mystery.
I don't know why I want to meet her so desperately but yes I want to
meet her at least once.
**************
"Hey Sunil!! How come
you here, that too at this time"? Asked Sapna surprisingly seeing me at
her doorstep. "Well I had to cancel
my meeting". "But, you said it was
important right? Anyways come on in". "Yes, I will explain
you everything later. I have come to
take you out to dinner". "You have come to...
what.. I mean you never decide such things without informing or.....", she
was very confused with my behaviour. "Its our third
anniversary, so I thought I will give you a surprise visit and take you to
dinner". "Is everything fine
with you Sunil"? "Yes Sapna, now will
you please get ready and come".
I knew Sapna would be
surprised to see me like this but as Neha said she was more happy than
surprised. She readily agreed to come
with me without making any excuses unlike me who always had one or the other
reason to cancel our outings. I had
planned a very well dinner and some more surprise for her.
"So where are we
going"? she asked me. "Have patience my
love". "Wow, you are being
very romantic today. What's the
matter. Bagged some big deal or
what"? "Can't I be romantic
just like that"? "Well I have never
seen you being romantic at any time though". "Today I have
realised so many things. I have realised
money is not everything. Relationships
do matter a lot". "How come this sudden
realisation"? "
I started to tell her
everything that happened today right from the time I left the house to
Chennai. How I met Neha, how my car
broke down, from where we took bus, how I had to cancel my important meeting,
everything. Sapna was very surprised to
hear all this but was also very pleased because it had completely changed me as
a person. She was happy for my changed
behaviour and my approach towards our relationship.
"Wow, this place is
awesome. I don't think we have ever been
here", Sapna said as soon as we entered the restaurant. "No, this is the
first time and as it is our anniversary today, place had to be unique". "This is too good
Sunil. I would never forget this day and
why is this restaurant so empty". " I have booked the
whole place". "What!!! You booked
this whole restaurant!! But why"? "Like I said, its our
anniversary today and I have something special for you". "You still have
something. I don't know if I am able to
handle anything more than this. Don't
spoil me Sunil". "You deserve to be
pampered Sapna. I never really cared
about you or your feelings. But today,
don't stop me. I want to give you all
the happiness".
I had made all the
arrangements in the restaurant. Light
music was playing in the background.
Lights were adjusted to suit the occasion. This was the first time we were having
romantic dinner, "A Real Romantic Dinner".
"How's all this
Sapna? Do you like it"? I asked her about the arrangements I had made. "Like it? I love it
Sunil. I had seen you organising only
business deals till date. But I never
knew you can plan a very well romantic dinner as well". "I have something to
tell you, just a second".
I got up from the chair,
went down on my knees, took out the ring from my pocket and facing towards her
I said, "I love you Sapna. I always
did and always will. I promise you I
would never hurt you and try to give you all the happiness you deserve. I will be with you in thick and thin. I want to grow old with you because you are
one amazing person I could ever have.
Will you marry me Sapna"? "Oh Sunil..... Of
course I will, I love you too, so very much", she accepted my proposal
with tears of joy in her eyes and hugged me never to let me go. I hugged her back and kissed her. Finally after five long years of knowing each
other and three long years of love, we decided to get married. *************
"Excuse me,
Vishal"? I asked the boy sitting in canteen. "Yes". "Hi, I am Sunil". "Sorry, do I know
you"? "Not really. I wanted to talk to you about Neha". "Neha? How do you know
her"? "Well, that's a long
story. For now just know that I am her
friend and I wanted some details about her". "Details, but you said
that she is your friend". "Yes, I had met her only
once. Can you please tell me where can I
find her". "Why do you think I know
about her"? "I got to know that you
are her boyfriend"? "I was, not
anymore. She has also left the
college. I don't have any contact with
her now". "But you must be knowing
her address or contact number". "She was one
character. We were in a relationship but
she was a total mystery to me. She never
really shared anything. I really loved
her but she didn't wanted to get committed".
Vishal told me he and Neha
got into relationship during their second year.
They were together only for six months.
Initially it was only for fun but later Vishal really started to like
her and proposed for serious commitment.
But Neha never wanted anything serious and they broke off.
Vishal said Neha would never
tell anything about her parents or hometown.
Whenever he used to ask, she just used to brush off the matter saying
she don't want to talk about her personal life.
Vishal loved Neha very much and tried to convince her for serious relationship
but Neha was adamant with her decision.
Vishal had last seen Neha when she had come to college to collect her TC
and bid goodbye to all her friends before leaving the college.
Vishal tried to ask her
contact number and address so that they can be in touch as friends but Neha
didn't give him any details but only said, "if we are destined to meet
again, then we will meet".
"Another two days, but
you said you have found her college right"? Sapna was asking me over the
phone. "Yes, but the staff here
cannot give her details without the permission of principal". "So get the
permission". "The principal is on
leave and will return after two days Sapna". "But Sunil, mom and dad
will be coming soon. I thought you would
make it by then". "I want to Sapna but you
know this is also very important to me". "I understand. Ok you carry on and keep me updated". "I am sorry Sapna. I know its hard for you to manage there
but.....", I could sense disappointment in her voice. "Its ok Sunil. Don't worry, I will take care here. Love you". "Love you too
Sapna".
I know I was giving hard time
to Sapna but finding Neha was also important to me. In two days finally I will be getting some
information about her. Hope there is not
another dead end.
"Good evening Sir, any
luck today"? Anurag asked me as soon as I reached home. "I found her college but
still no luck with her whereabouts". "But they will be
knowing about her address". "Yes they know but I
have to get principal's permission who is on leave and will be coming after 2
days". "Oh, another two days of
waiting for you then". "Yes, anyways how come
you here"? "I wanted your sign on
these documents Sir". "Oh, how long have you
been waiting here"? "Just 10 minutes
Sir. If you could sign these
papers"?
I signed the papers and
Anurag took my leave. Another two days
and hopefully I would get all my answers.
I had never made a friend as close as Neha in my entire life. I could stop this search now and come back
after my marriage but I want her to attend my wedding. Neha was the one because of whom I had found
this happiness in my life and I wanted to share with her. I wanted to show her that I am a changed man
now.
"Good morning Mr
Sunil. Sorry to keep you waiting",
addressed the principal seeing me waiting in his cabin. "Not a problem Sir but
how do you know me"? I asked him with surprise as I had not yet introduced
me. "This is a silly
question. You are the famous leading
business tycoon". "Oh you do keep track of
businessmen then". "Well only successful
businessmen", he laughed. "Thanks for your
compliment Sir". "So how can I help
you"? "I am here in search of
one girl Neha who used to study in your college". "What about her"? "I got to know she has
left the college and I want to know her whereabouts. The staff here said that it can't be given
without your permission". "Hmm, they are right but
Mr Sunil, its against our rules to hand out this confidential information about
someone especially when the student has left the college".
**************
I started the next day
with new enthusiasm. I was very happy
about Sapna accepting my marriage proposal.
I knew she would but I was happy about my approach towards her which had
a deep impact on her. I had never seen
her as happy as she was last night. For
the first time I realised what I meant to her.
I had a very special place in her heart.
Neha was right. Making others
happy would in turn make us tremendously happy and if it is for our loved ones
then our happiness has no bounds. I was
never excited in my life to this extent, not even when I had won an award for
best businessman.
There were still lot of
things I wanted to change one of which involved my attitude towards my
staff. Till date I didnt had clear
visualisation of my staff. Except for
some important members I didn't know anyone in person. They greet me daily but I was least bothered
to greet them back. I don't know if this was my pride of being supreme but now I
wanted to change this behaviour and consider everyone equally.
"Good morning
Sir", greeted Anurag as soon as I entered my office. "Good morning
Anurag. Please see me in my cabin. "Sure Sir".
He was astonished with my
pleasant behaviour. "May I come in
Sir"? "Please come in
Anurag. Have your seat"? "I am fine Sir". "Please have your
seat Anurag". "Thank you Sir. You look very different and very happy
today". "Well I am and will
be the same everyday now". "I didn't understand
Sir". "I want to call a
meeting of our whole staff. I have some
important things to discuss". "Whole staff!! This is
the first time we are having some meeting like this Sir". "I know, now will you
please arrange this meeting in one hour". "Straight away
Sir. One more thing, that Chennai people
had called to arrange a meeting".
I asked Anurag to give
those Chennai people any date they wish for.
Anurag arranged a meeting of our whole staff.
"Good morning
everyone. I know you all may be
wondering about this meeting as this is the first time we all are gathered at
one place. To ease your tension, no one
is getting redundant. I guess this has
eased the atmosphere now".
They all had a small laugh
among themselves. "That's good. Well I have few things to share with you
all. I know I was never a good employer. I still don't know many of your names
here. I never cared to listen to your
queries. You all have worked hard to
build this empire. But I have never appreciated your work. I want to promise to all of you that things
will be different now. I want to share a
friendly relationship with you all. Your
hard work will be very well appreciated.
I have called this meeting to assure you all that everyone will be
treated equally and please feel free to talk to me regarding any concerns. I hope we will make this work. Thank you one and all".
I could see the happy faces
of my staff members. I was feeling proud
about my new attitude. "That was great
Sir. I had never seen this side of
yours", said Anurag once the meeting was finished. "As I said, you will
see me like this everyday now". "May I know the
reason for this sudden change Sir"? "Yesterday's day out
changed my whole perspective about life and its meaning Anurag. I am glad that my flight got cancelled
yesterday. And I would also want to
apologise for my behaviour towards you till date". "You are embarrassing
me Sir. You don't have to do this". "But I want to
Anurag. You have tolerated me these many
years inspite of my arrogant behaviour". "Please Sir, I can understand your position. Running an entire company is not a joke and
people tend to become arrogant at times.
I don't have any issues with that".
***************
"I am trusting you on
this Mr Sunil and giving you her details as I am very well aware about your
reputation. Hope I will not be in any
problem" said the principal who after much convincing agreed to provide me
the details about Neha. "Absolutely Sir. You can mark my words. I assure you that you or your college name
will never show up in any case". "Well in that case, I
will get her details for you. She was a
very bright student. She didn't give me
the exact reason for her discontinuation but then you can never understand
today's young generation you see". "Very true Sir. Do you know her in person"? "Yes of course. She had come through scholarship. Only I knew about her true identity and she had
requested me not to disclose about it to anyone". "True identity!!! What
does that mean Sir"? "Well she was an orphan
and used to live in orphanage until she joined here in hostel. I have only her orphanage address but I am
not sure if she still lives there. You
can try your luck though".
Orphan!!!! I couldn't believe
what I had just heard from the principal.
Neha was an orphan. This was
another and biggest shock for me. I now
remembered why she said that her parents run an orphanage. She considered them as her own parents. I can now understand what she felt when she
was asking about my family.
The principal gave me the
address of her orphanage which was at the outskirts of
Her orphanage was the last
hope for me now. If I couldn't find her
there then it will be the end of my search.
If she has left her orphanage I am sure she would not have told them
about her whereabouts as far as I know her.
I decided to set off my journey to her orphanage the very next day.
***************
"When can I talk to
your parents"? I asked Sapna. "Anytime. In fact they are very happy about the
news". "Oh so you told them
about the proposal"? "Of course. They were pressurising me from a long
time. How about this weekend"? "I am cool with
it". "Sunil, you are
giving me word just like that. I mean
don't you have to check your appointments"? "Other things can
wait sweetheart. Talking to your parents
is the first priority now". "Wow, I must thank
that girl in person who has changed you to such an extent". "True, so weekend,
Saturday or Sunday"? "Saturday for dinner,
is it fine"? "Ok, no issues".
Saturday dinner was
fixed. I was going to talk to Sapna's
parents regarding our marriage. Usually
these things are managed by elders but since there is no one in my family, I had
to do this. Sapna's parents were not
very hard to talk to but yes I had made them wait for a long time now.
"Hello young man, how
are you"? greeted Sapna's father. "Very well uncle,
thank you. Hope I am not late". "You are always very
punctual son. Have your seat. Ladies are in the kitchen". "Oh there must be
some big feast then"? I gave a light laugh. "Of course, today is
the special occasion after all".
Sapna and her mom came out
of the kitchen to welcome me.
"Hello son, exactly
on time"? asked her mom. "Oh you both know him
na ma. Whether its any business meeting
or family dinner, he is never late", teased Sapna. "Do you want me to go
and come back after a while then"? I asked Sapna sarcastically.
We all had a laugh at
it. Sapna's brother couldn't make it as
he was on duty. We all were well settled
and it was time for me to come to the matter.
"Ok everyone, may I
have your attention please", I started to address Sapna and her parents
and continued, "Uncle and Aunty you must be knowing the reason for today's
gathering. I know I have made you wait
for a long time now but not anymore. I
officially want to ask your daughter's hand in marriage for myself. I am sorry I have to do this as you are very
well aware that no one is there on my family.
I am not saying I am the best guy but I do promise that I would try to
be a best husband and look after your daughter very well. I will be with her in all the phases of
life. I assure you, your daughter will
be very happy with me. So uncle and aunt
can I get a right to call you mom and dad from now"? I concluded my
speech. Sapna's parents were very
happy the way I approached them. They
gave their blessings and assured that they will soon fix a date for
wedding. Finally I was going to settle
down with the love of my life. Sapna is
the best companion anyone could have and I couldn't have asked for more. *************
"Are you serious? I
don't believe this Sunil"!!! Sapna was shocked to hear about Neha being an
orphan after I called to update her. "Even I am under shock
Sapna. None of her friends or college
mates know about this except for the principal". "But why did she kept
this a secret". "The principal said that
she didn't wanted anyone to sympathise her on this matter and therefore she
didn't wanted to disclose her true identity". "This is bizarre
Sunil. I can understand how you must be
feeling now". "She has become a total
mystery now Sapna. I am just so
confused". "Don't stress yourself
too much. Will you be going to her
orphanage"? "I am setting off
tomorrow. That's the last place I could
find her. If she has left from there,
then I am coming back Sapna". "Don't lose hope
Sunil. I am sure you will find her. Just be calm and remember one thing, I am
always there for you. Don't worry anything
about here, I will take care everything.
Love you dear".
Sapna's parents had come
down. She didn't let me know about what
stress she was going through but I very well understood her plight. Another two days and her brother will also be
coming down. If I coudn't find Neha in
orphanage I would be left with no other option but to return back. There is no much time left for the wedding
now and I could not be selfish anymore.
Sapna was the one who had
suggested me to invite Neha for our wedding.
She wanted to meet her in person and thank her for all the changes she
had brought in me. I just hoped that I
could find her. I called Anurag and informed
him about my tomorrow's trip. "I will be leaving tomorrow
early morning Anurag". "Sure Sir, will you be returning
tomorrow or you are planning to stay back". "I am not sure yet. First let me find her. I will keep you updated". "Ok, hope you find her
Sir. All the best".
****************
Our wedding date was fixed
and it was after 3 months.
"Do you think its too
early"? Sapna asked me about the wedding date. "I think its too
late", I winked at her. "Sunil.... how will
we manage within three months. There is
so much to do". "Your parents might
have thought about it love. Don't you
worry". "They said that if
not after three months then there is no date for next two years". "Oh my god, I can't
wait that long now". "Really, I don't
believe you". "Tell me what should
I do to prove you wrong". "Just promise me one
thing, that you will never ever change". "I promise
Sapna. I have realised that this is the
real me. These many years I was living
according to rules but not anymore". "Hey why don't you
invite that girl Neha to our wedding"? "I don't know
anything about her Sapna". "Then try to find out
Sunil. I really want to meet her".
Sapna's suggestion made me
to think about the matter now. I do
wanted to track down Neha and I guess nothing is better than having her on my
wedding. Somewhere, directly or indirectly
she was responsible for this wedding.
If I had not met her that
day, then I guess I would be still running behind to flourish my business and
ignore my personal life. If not for her then I would have lost Sapna, my love,
forever.
I didn't know how to start
her search and I didn't had enough time as well. There were lot of things I had to concentrate
on. I had bagged that Chennai deal and
right now was working on that. I had few
business meetings as well.
Anurag was the only and
best person I could think of. I had to
tell him the whole incident about Neha and asked him if he could help me in my
search as I personally can't afford enough time. He readily agreed to help me and I knew he
would never turn me down.
"I don't have enough
details about her Anurag except for her name", I said while discussing
about how to track down Neha. "Do you know her full
name Sir"? he asked me. "No Anurag. I know only her fist name. I don't know where she lives or which college
she studies. I don't have any
information about it". "I will make the list
of colleges in Anurag tried his best to
find Neha but even after two months he didn't had any clue about her. He was very sorry about it though I knew it
was not his fault. Only a month was left
for our wedding and we went to Madikeri, Sapna's hometown.
I decided that I will
search for Neha personally. Sapna was
not very comfortable of me leaving her at this time but I was left with no
other option. I wanted that one person
to be on my wedding who had changed my life.
I had promised Neha that I would track her down and I guess the time has
come to find her. **************
"Sorry Sir, we cannot
disclose any details about anyone unless you have any permission letter from
higher authority", said the lady at the orphanage centre when I tried to
ask her about Neha. "From where should I get
the permission? I am not asking any details, I am just asking if I could meet
her", I was trying to explain. "Look Sir, our madam is
not there at the moment. Its up to her
who meets the girls here. Without her
consent I can't let you to meet anyone". "Ok, where can I find
your madam then"? "She has gone to her
hometown to attend some wedding. She
will be coming back only after three days". "Three days!!! Look its
very important for me to meet her. I
have my own wedding in two weeks. I have
come to invite that girl. She is a very
good friend of mine". "Rules are rules
Sir. You are not allowed to meet her
without the permission". "But at least you can
check if that girl still stays here? I
will not bother you after that. Please
Mam, its really important".
That lady was not ready to
listen what I was trying to say. She was
very adamant at her words. Another three
days was a long wait for me. Sapna's
parents had come, her brother would be coming soon. I was standing there helpless. Why is this becoming so difficult. I am here at her doorstep yet so far from
her. I didn't even know if Neha still
stays here.
"Excuse me, excuse
me", I called one of the girl who had come out from the orphanage. "Yes..."?, she
turned around with a puzzled look. "Hi, I am Sunil. Look I need some help from you. Can you please tell me if Neha still stays
here"? "Neha..., sorry we are
not allowed to tell about anyone to any stranger". "Do all of you have the
same slogan here"?, I got little annoyed now. "Yes and Mr if you want
to know anything then please wait till our madam comes back", and she
started to go. "Hey hey, look I am
sorry. I didn't mean that", I tried
to stop her. I explained her everything
about how important it is for me to meet Neha.
"I understand, but I
don't want to get involved in any problem.
The rules here are very strict especially after the incident just two
weeks back", she said. "What incident"? I
asked her. "Two guys had come to
meet one girl here. They said they were
her friends which was true because that girl knew about them". "And......." "They took her with
them. Our Mam was not there at that
moment. Then the girl returned next day
in a very bad condition. They had tried
to sell her to someone but luckily she somehow saved herself from them". "Oh that's very
bad". "Yes, after that
incident, no one is allowed to meet or take any girl with them unless it is
approved by our Mam even the girl knows about them". "Look, I am not that
kind of person. I would meet her only
after taking permission from your Mam but before that I just want to know if
she still stays here".
Finally the girl agreed.
"Ok, what name did you
say"? she asked me. "Neha, Neha K. She was doing her graduation in "Neha.....hmm.... I came
here only three weeks back. In these
three weeks I have not heard about this Neha". "Oh....... that means
she doesn't stay here anymore then". "Look I am sorry I
couldn't help you but I can do you one favour", she said seeing my
helplessness. "What's that"? "I can give my Mam's
contact number. You can call her and
explain her everything". "Oh that 's a brilliant
idea. Its very nice of you". "But you should promise
me that I would not be in any trouble". "Trust me, I don't even
know your name. So how would you be in
trouble".
That girl gave me the senior
in-charge's mobile number. Now this was
the only means to find out about Neha.
"Yes Sapna, tell
me", Sapna called me in between and the girl went on her way. "Did you reach there?
Could you find her"? she asked me. "No Sapna, not
yet", I then told her everything that happened here. "What next Sunil"? "That girl has given me
the number of senior in-charge. I will
try calling her now". "Ok, brother will be
coming tonight". "Yes Sapna, I know
that. If she don't give me any details,
then I guess I have to stop all this". "Don't worry Sunil, you
have come this far. I am sure you will
not come back empty handed". "Thanks for your support
Sapna". "Anytime Sunil, take
care, love you". "Love you too".
Every effort I was making to
find out about Neha was not taking me anywhere.
If this lady also decides not to speak to me, then there is no point of
my search and I will have to go back with those words from Neha, "if we
are destined to meet, then we will meet".
"I am trying her phone
continuously but its not reachable", I was telling to Sapna on phone. "Hope you have got the
right number". "That girl gave me this
number. It should be right". "May be there is no
coverage in her hometown". "I think so. Sapna, is it ok if I stay back till she
returns". "But Sunil you don't
even know if Neha still resides there". "I know but I am not finding
any alternative way". "Look I don't mind if
you stay back but what is the use if she don't live there. I don't think they will give you her details
if she has moved from there". "I don't know why but I
feel she is still here". "But Sunil, you can continue
your search after the wedding right"? "I can but Sapna I
wanted her to attend our wedding, that's the reason I took so much pain. Don't you think it will all go waste"? "You are right, stay
back Sunil. At least you don't have to
regret later. Its just I am missing
you".
Even I was missing
Sapna. I wanted to be next to her
helping out in the preparations. But I
am not feeling like going back. Somehow
I am getting a strong feeling that Neha is still around me and calling me. That girl said she has never heard about Neha
but she can be wrong. Neha never mixes
with anyone. May be that could be the
reason she has never heard about her. I
know this is too unlikely.
I can explain my situation to
the senior in-charge and get her details.
May be she can understand everything.
With so many concerns running around in my mind, I again tried her
number and this time luckily it got connected.
"Hello, hello Mam this
is Sunil here. I want to talk to you
about..." "Neha, right", she
said before I could complete my sentence. "How do you know this"? "She had mentioned about
you. Even I need to talk to you about
her".
Finally after so many twists
and turns, I would be meeting Neha. The
lady said she had planned to return after three days but since my matter was
urgent she would return the next day.
She didn't give me any details over the phone but she said she has
something to hand over to me.
After talking to her, one
thing was sure though Neha didn't live there I could get the details about
her. At least she had mentioned about
me. That concludes even she considers me
as her friend. My gut feeling about her
presence around me was proved to be true.
One more night to spend and I will be meeting Neha.
I went to the nearby motel
and checked in for the night. I called
Anurag to inform him about my stay. That
night I had seen something in Neha's eyes which wanted to tell so many
things. Now I understand that she wanted
to tell her true identity. Now there was
no stopping me. Let her be in any part
of
"Wow, that's great news
Sunil. I am so happy for you", said
Sapna when I told her about the news. "I am super excited
Sapna. Finally tomorrow I will be
getting her details. If she has
mentioned about me then the senior in-charge would definitely give me her
whereabouts". "Its good that you
decided to stay back Sunil and I am sorry for asking you to come back". "Don't embarrass me
Sapna. If not for your support I would
have never made it till here". "But still, at one point
I felt like you to return". "That's because you love
me. Now come on don't be sorry and
smile". "Ya, I am smiling
now". "Did your brother
reached"? "Yes he came just an
hour back. He was asking about you". "What did you say"? "I just said that you
have some important business meeting and would be coming back in two
days". "I am so sorry you have
to do all this. It's our wedding
and......". "Now see, who is being
sorry".
We talked for some more time
and finally hung up. After I had set out
on this search operation, me and Sapna never really had long
conversations. It has been two weeks now
but luckily these two weeks didn't go waste.
I was thinking about all the ways
I had approached to find Neha.
I didn't had any information
about Neha except for her name when I started this search. I had scanned so many colleges to find
her. I had never searched for anyone in
my life the way I had tried to find out Neha.
She had said money can't buy everything which proved true in my
case. Not a single penny of my wealth
helped me to find Neha. Tomorrow will be a new
day. I was very excited. I have so many things to talk to her. I am not sure if she will be happy to see me
or not but yes she will definitely be shocked that I came searching for
her. She would not have expected that I
would track her down so soon. My heart
is filled with excitement and waiting to see the sunrise.
*************
The next morning I got ready
and went to the orphanage centre to meet the senior in-charge. She had asked me to come around
I took my seat and I could
hear someone addressing me and I turned around,
"Good morning Mr Sunil,
I am Mrs Parvathi Kumar. How are
you"?, the senior in-charge lady introduced herself.
Mrs Parvathi Kumar was an elderly
lady in her late 50s. She was a very
well dressed lady in a saree, her hair neatly tied, black eyes, medium built
and about 5.5 feet tall.
"Good morning Mam, I am
good and thanks for coming back early".
She indeed had helped me
heaps by returning early from her hometown.
"No issues and I am
sorry on behalf of my staff. Actually few
days back there occurred an unlikely incident because of which the rules are
very strict here now". "Oh, what
happened"? I had to pretend of not knowing. "Well that's a long
story, doesn't concern you anyhow. So
how did you get here"? "That too is a very long
story Mam. You said you also wanted to
talk to me about Neha". "Oh yes, few months back
she had mentioned about an outing you both had". "Really!!! I thought she
would have forgot about that day". "And why did you think
so Mr Sunil"? "Well with all the
research I made about her to get here made me feel like she is a very reserved
girl, talkative but don't believe in making friends. She makes you feel you know about her but yet
she seems to be entirely different at times".
Mrs Kumar agreed with my
words but she said Neha was entirely different in her early years.
"What you are saying is
true Mr Sunil but Neha was not the same always.
She was a young and bubbly girl.
She was a new born baby when she had come to this orphanage. Her mother died while delivering her and her
father was a drunkard and had no job. He
left her here saying he can't take care of her", said Mrs Kumar. "That's a very tragic
story. Does she know about all
this"? "No, we never told her
anything. She was one of my favourite
girl. It was very easy upbringing
her. She always used to be happy and
friendly with everyone. She had lot of
friends and everyone liked her very much.
She used to bond with everyone and had high attachments". "I am not sure of
attachments but yes she is indeed a very friendly person".
Mrs Kumar couldn't stop
telling me all about Neha and her childhood days. She said Neha was a very bright girl and
started to tell about her achievements during her school days be it in studies
or in extra curricular activities.
"From what you are
saying I can realise that she is indeed one of your favourite girl", I
said to Mrs Kumar. "Yes Mr Sunil, her
presence would lighten up the whole centre.
Not only me she was everyone's favourite". "But how did you recognise
me in an instant"? "When Neha told me about
you, she also said that you will be coming tracking her. But I had never expected you to see here so
soon". "She really said that, I
don't believe". "She considered you as a
nice person and a friend too which I think is true. You had only her name but still you made it
till here. Only a true friend can do
this". "She is the one who
changed by life Mrs Kumar. I was leading
a very robotic life but she filled my life with colours, emotions, attachments
and values. I don't have any friends
till date but only her". "She would have been
very lucky to have a friend like you Mr Sunil". "From a long time I am
seeing you are using only past tense about her which means she has moved out
from here right"?
Mrs Kumar took a deep breath
before she could continue. I felt that
she was trying to say something but was struggling with her words.
"What happened Mrs
Kumar? Is Neha here or moved out and if moved out, then can you please share
her details"? "Just a second Mr Sunil. I will get the cover she has left for
you".
Mrs Kumar went inside and I
was sitting there and wondering when will my wait would finally come to an end.
"Here Mr Sunil, this is
the cover she has left for you", said Mrs Kumar. "This looks like some letter. Anyways where is she now Mrs Kumar. Can I get her address"? "I am very sorry to
inform you Mr Sunil but Neha is no more.
She was diagnosed with cancer and she passed away about 2 and a half
months back", Mrs Kumar wiped her tears after conveying the unfortunate message
to me.
*****************
I was sitting there numb with
no reaction. I was only listening to
what she was saying but nothing was making sense to me.
"Mr Sunil, Mr Sunil!!!!
Are you ok"? Mrs Kumar asked me by shaking me. "What you said just
now......", I asked recovering my senses. "Yes Mr Sunil, its
true. I know its hard to believe. She was diagnosed with blood cancer in her
first year of college. Doctors had
started treatment on her and given some hopes.
But then she slowly started to detach from her friends. She remained friendly but she didn't keep any
attachments". "So that was the reason
she left the college"? "Yes, because by the end
of second year doctors realised that she will not make it. So she wanted to lead rest of her life here
with us". "The other night it
seemed she wanted to tell something but I never realised it could be this
fatal". "Life is so
unpredictable Mr Sunil. We had never
imagined that such a lovely girl would depart from us so soon".
Collecting the letter from
Mrs Kumar I left from the centre with a heavy heart. I was in pain but there was not a single drop
of tear in my eyes. I wanted to cry and
shout but was not able to. I wanted to
curse god for taking away such a beautiful person from this world that too at a
tender age. I was still in a shock and
was not able to digest that a girl who had changed my life has left her own
life.
A sad thing in life is when
you meet someone who means a lot to you only to find out in the end that it was
never meant to be and you just have to let go.
"Hello, Sapna"? I
called her number. "Sunil, what happened,
did you meet that lady"? "I am coming back
Sapna. I will tell you everything when I
get there". "But did you get any
details about Neha"? "Yes, I can't tell you
anything now. We will talk when I reach
there".
I looked at the letter in my
hand which was the only memory of Neha.
"Hey Dude,
Now that you are holding
this letter you very well know that I have played my last innings. While getting here you also have known many
information about me. I know I had lied
to you about my identity on that day but I am not sorry for that. I didn't wanted anyone to sympathise me for
who I am because I don't feel sorry for me.
We all are different. We always
can't get everything in life. Instead of
longing for something which you don't have why can't we be just happy with what
we have. At times I used to feel bad
when I used to see children being cuddled by their parents but then I saw there
are also people who struggle every day of their life to have one decent meal a
day. In comparison to them I am far more
in a better position. This orphanage has
given me shelter to live, food to eat, clothes to wear, friends to talk to and
education to come up in life. What more
could I have asked for. I don't think my
own parents could have provided me with these facilities. Then why should I complain or why should
anyone else sympathise me.
In schools it was not
under my control but when I joined college and stayed in hostel I requested the
principal not to disclose my identity to anyone, not even the staff or
lecturers and hence I told all my college mates that I was from
He knew I liked him and he
was crazy about me. Instead of turning
down his proposal and giving him the reason, I accepted with the condition that
there would be nothing serious between us.
He readily agreed for that. I had
some wonderful moments with him. He was
the first person to touch me. He was the
first one with whom I realised meaning of love.
He loved me selflessly. Vishal
wanted to have serious commitment with me but then I broke off with him. It was not easy for me but I didn't wanted
him to long for me because I knew I would not make it because by the end of my
second year doctors realised that no treatment could save me. For one week I remained depressed. I wanted to live and have a beautiful life
with Vishal but again as I said we all are different. We get only what we are destined for. After many sleepless nights I finally decided
that I am not going to die like this. I
would make every moment of my life special.
I would lead rest of my life in such a way that even death would feel
ashamed. I decided to cut off my
studies. That day when we had met I had
come to bid final good bye to my friends.
When I met you I realised
that you are not very happy in your life.
You had everything but yet you were not enjoying your life. That's why I decided to stick to you and show
you the real meaning of life. To my
surprise you slowly started to enjoy my company. That one day spent with you was a memorable
day to me as well. I was happy that I
was able to make you realise that happiness always relies in smallest
things. Happiness is not always about
any business deals or buying expensive things but its about helping others and
being the reason for others happiness.
You realised these things and with each passing hour your attitude was
changing. I might have lied to you about
my identity but the things that I shared with you was genuine and from my
heart. When I was parting from you I felt
like telling you everything but again you would have felt bad for me and would
have tried to help me in every possible way.
I didn't wanted that. I didn't
wanted you to think that I told all those things because I was dying. No I shared all those things because I meant
it. You said you would come back to
track me and believe me I knew you would come.
I knew I would not be
alive by the time you find me. That's
the reason I am writing you this letter.
Please don't ever be sorry for me.
I would always want you to remember me as a bubbly young girl not some
grief stricken girl. I know by now you
would be a changed man and I am happy that I could change someone's perspective
about life. Please remain the same. Life is very unpredictable and don't waste it
in unnecessary materialistic happiness.
Live your life to fullest and always be compassionate towards others. Be
happy and contended with what you have.
Don't strive for something because someone else have it. I will be always in your memories and yes
convey my regards to your fiancee Sapna and I wish you a very happy married
life in advance. One more thing if we
are destined to meet in next life we will meet.
Your loving friend,
Neha".
*************
"Hey Sunil, so good to
see you back", said Sapna hugging me as soon as I entered the house. "How did the meeting go
Sunil, all good"? her Dad asked me. "Oh let him have some
rest at least, no more business talks now", said Sapna's Mom. "Welcome back Sunil,
seeing you after a long time. You go and
get some rest, we will have a party later at night", said Sapna's brother.
I straight away went to room
after taking their leave.
"Is everything alright
Sunil, where is Neha, didn't you find her and....."? Sapna asked me seeing
me lying on the bed. "Here, read this
letter. I will have a shower and
come".
I was not in a position to
tell her about Neha's death. Even though
I had told Sapna about Neha and her personality I wanted her to know Neha
through her own words. This would give a
better picture about her.
I was deeply touched after
reading her letter. I had tears in my
eyes but I didn't wanted to insult her by crying. I was missing her and feeling bad because a
girl with such a beautiful thought had to depart so early from her life. She was way too knowledgeable for her age but
I am happy that she spent her last days with grace and not by grief. She was someone who had thorough knowledge
about true purpose of life. There are so
many people around us who struggle everyday to make a living and we who have
every luxury still thrive for something more.
She didn't had any home but she accepted her orphanage as her home, she
considered Mrs Kumar as her own mother, she found siblings in other girls over
there. She was true that her parents
indeed run orphanage. She had so many
reasons to feel lonely and depressed but she took these things with a positive
attitude and always remained happy with whatever she had thinking it as god's
gift. Again she taught me true meaning
of life and I thank god for that "ONE DAY OUT" with her.
**************
AFTER FEW MONTHS
"Sapna, are you ready?
We are getting late now", I call out for Sapna. "Have patience my
dear. I am almost done". "I guess you didn't take
so long to get ready in our wedding as well". "You keep
blabbering. See I am ready. Shall we go now"? "Hey, you are looking
gorgeous". "You are also not
bad".
It is Anurag's wedding. I had to personally talk to both his and his
girlfriend's parents and they finally gave their consent. In fact they are very happy about the match.
My wedding also went very
well. I was depressed for a while but
then again I took it with positive attitude just like Neha and everything
became so easy. I agree there are so many
things to worry about but everything can be solved just by having positive
attitude.
"Hello"? I answer
my call and it was Mrs Kumar who wanted to meet me and was waiting at my
office.
"Good morning Mrs Kumar,
how are you today"? I greet her. "I am very well Mr
Sunil. Sorry to drop here without an
appointment". "Don't embarrass me now
Mrs Kumar, please take your seat. This
is Sapna, my wife and Sapna this is Mrs Kumar.
I have told you about her". "Oh yes, nice meeting
you Mrs Kumar. Sunil always tells about
you of what a wonderful person you are", says Sapna. "He is being too
generous. In fact its because of him
that we are able to have so many facilities at our orphanage now". "You are again
embarrassing me now". "No Mr Sunil, its
true. Your generous donation is
supporting us to a great extent". "Ok, I take that. May I know your purpose of visit"? I ask
her. "Next month we are
having a small annual function like every year.
We want you to be the chief guest". "Me and chief
guest"!!! "Yes Mr Sunil and we
would appreciate if you could also join him Mrs Sunil".
I accept her invitation for
the annual function. We then proceed to
attend the wedding.
I wanted to open an orphanage
centre but then I decided to donate funds to Neha's orphanage and many such
organisations. This I was not doing only
for the sake of Neha but also for my own happiness.
"Happy married life,
bless you both", me and Sapna congratulate Anurag and his better half. "Thank you very much
Sir, we both owe you". "If so, then promise me
one thing". "What is it Sir"? "Just live your life to
fullest".
Life and death are
evident. Coming into this world is not
in our hands but we could make our departure a memorable one to others. That is what Neha did. She made her death a beautiful memory by the
way she lead her life. She may not be
here with me now but she will always be there in my heart as my true friend and
a well wisher.
When life gives you hundred
reasons to cry, show life that you have thousand reasons to smile. Dream what you what to dream, go where you
want to go and be what you want to be because you have only one life to do all
the things you want to do. This is the
way of life.
"A DAY OUT" indeed
was an unforgettable and a memorable one.
We all meet different people each day but very few like Neha leave a
deep impact on us.
******END******* © 2017 Swetha |
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Added on August 16, 2017 Last Updated on August 16, 2017 Author
SwethaSydney, NSW, AustraliaAboutI am a newbie here. I used to write short stories but now trying with novels..Please feel free to leave your reviews.. Also please visit the website woxpert for my other novels... more..Writing
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