Love, Life, and Friendship

Mukhra · 04:47 AM

LOVE, LIFE, AND FRIENDSHIP: CHAPTER 1

Everything was all set. The bags were packed; the furniture had already been taken care of. Sabika checked and rechecked her list. Everything just had to be perfect on her first day of college. After all, most people didn’t get that opportunity more than once in their lifetime. Sabika sat up and shook the dust off her hands.
Whew! That’s taken care of, she thought.
Riiiinnnng!!!
“Hello?” she answered the phone.
“Hey Sabi. It’s Diya. You ready?” Diya, her best friend replied.
“Oh, hey. Yeah, I’m ready…I think,” Sabika said.
“K. I’ll come pick you up. In a couple of hours, we’ll be free!”
“Yea, see you in a few,” Sabika hung up the phone. She looked around her room. It was going to be hard moving away from a place where she had lived all her life.
Yaar, she thought, itna emotional honay ki koi zaroorat nahin. Sirf do ghanton ka tho fasla hai. Bas.
Sabika picked up her bags and went downstairs, where her parents waited. There was a whole ten minutes of hugs, kisses, and good lucks. LAAAAAA. The bell rang. It was Diya. Together, they put the bags in the car.
“Bye Mama. Bye Papa. I’ll call you later,” Sabika said as she got in the car. A minute later, the doors were shut and Diya started the car. On Main Street, Diya turned onto Sutton Ave.
“Why are you stopping here?” Sabika questioned.
“Rohit ko bhi tho pick up karna hai,” Diya replied while stopping the car. Ah, Rohit, a very good friend of Sabika.
“I’ll go and get him,” Sabika said, and got out of the car. She walked upto the house and rang the bell. Rohit opened the door. Sabika laughed. He was dressed up for the occasion. He had a forest green suit on. It suited him, but he never dressed for anything.
“Why are you laughing?” Rohit asked sheepishly.
“You look ridiculous!” Sabika fixed his shirt. The buttons were buttoned wrong.
“Shut up yaar. Don’t make fun of me,” he pouted. Then, he smiled and ran his hand through his his black, silky hair.
“I’m gonna go get my stuff. Come with me?” he said, holding out his arm in a gentleman type of manner. Sabika took his arm and they went upstairs. They went into Rohit’s room, which was clean, surprisingly. There were only a few clothes on the bed that needed to be packed. Sabika picked out a pair of jeans, and a blue shirt.
“Here. Take this and wear it. It’ll look better. You’re going to college, not your wedding,” she said. Rohit took the clothes and went into the bathroom. In the meantime, she packed all the stuff that was left. When she was done, Sabika went and knocked on the bathroom door.
“Come on slowpoke. Don’t take all day. We still have to get there before 10,” she said at the door. The door opened and Rohit stood before her. He looked more like an 18 year old than before. Rohit picked up his bags and threw them down the stairs. Sabika was used to this. Everytime someone told Rohit to hurry up, he would hurry up in such a manner, the person would regret saying anything. Then, he ran down the stairs and took the bags to Diya’s car already full car. The bags were put in the front seat, and Sabika and Rohit sat in the back. Diya was going to do the driving. Rohit pushed Sabika to the window. Sabika pushed him back.
“Stop it you two, or get out of my car,” Diya warned, looking in the rearview mirror. Rohin’s hand stopped in midair.
“What? I was only trying to get comfortable,” he whined. Sabika told him to be quiet, and he, in a childish sort of way, folded his arms, and sank into the seat. Two hours later, the trio arrived at Boston University.
They were met by a guide, who told them their room numbers. Diya and Sabika were in the same room, and Rohit was sharing a room with a boy named Sameer. I wonder who that is, Sabika thought.
Sabika and Diya opened the door to their room. Not bad. It was pretty big. They started to unpack their bags. Diya, being an expert at that, quickly got her clothes, and headed to the bathroom.
“I’m gonna go take a shower. Then we’ll set this place up,” she said. Sabika nodded absently and went on packing. About a minute later, there was a knock on the door. Sabika opened it, and saw who it was.
“Aargh! What now?” she asked.
“Aww Sabika. Is that the way to treat your jaan?"

Mukhra · 9th April 2005, 04:46 AM

hi evryone,
i know the first chapter is a bit slow, but i only did that so u could get familiar with the characters. Can you tell me how to improve my writing by telling me if the chapters are good or not? that would be a big help.
Thanx
Take Care
Bye
Mukhra

Parul · 9th April 2005, 06:15 AM

Mukhra ji, it's really a great chapter... and nice character, I like reading it, you are writing Excellent, just like novel. I like the way you explained it.. you done a great job, believe me! I can create picture of everything what you describe, It's a better way to write, and that creates an interesting story, reader wants to read them further.. I appreciate your work!! Have fun*

Mukhra · 10th April 2005, 03:35 AM

LOVE, LIFE AND FRIENDSHIP: CHAPTER 2
“Aargh! What now?” Sabika asked.
“Aww, Sabika. Is that the way to treat your jaan?” Rohit said, holding out his arms. Sabika swatted his arm and tried to shut the door in his face. Rohit caught the door and held it.
“Shut up Rohit. If you wanna come in, get in, or get out,” Sabika said. Rohit always joked around with Sabika by calling her jaan and darling. She should have been used to this by now, but she still got annoyed when he did that. Rohit followed Sabika into the room and plopped down on Sabika’s already made bed.
“Not bad of a room you have here. It’s bigger than mine. Maybe I should just move in here,”said Rohit, making himself comfortable on the bed. Sabika sat down on the floor and started unpacking one of her bags.
“What do you want?” Sabika asked.
“I just thought I could treat you and Diya to…some pizza for dinner,” Rohit said. Sabika took out her clothes and started putting them in her closet. The pants went to the left, the shirts in the middle, and the dresses at the right. She liked organizing everything so that it would be easier to find her clothes.
“That’s fine with me, but don’t forget your wallet,” Sabika said in her closet. She smiled at the thought. Once, Rohit had taken her to an Indian restaurant. When the time came to pay, Rohit had forgotten his wallet at home, leaving Sabika no choice but to pay even though it was supposed to be a treat from Rohit. He had spent the whole ride home apologizing.
“Leave me alone! That was one time. Aaj tho mera wallet meri pocket main hai,” Rohit said, taking it out and showing it to her. Sabika in the meanwhile, had picked a black shirt and tan pants. She was about to iron them when Rohit took them out of her hands.
“You made me change so I’m going to make you wear something of my choice,” Rohit said, rummaging through Sabika’s clothes, and making a mess while doing it. He took out a dark blue salwar-kameez. The kameez was made of a net-type material, with aqua blue rhine-stones on it. It was truly beautiful, but a bit formal.
“Fine. I’ll go put this on, but if you ask me, it’s a bit too formal for just pizza,” Sanika said taking the clothes from Rohit and turning them inside out to iron. In a couple of minutes, the clothes were ironed. At the same time, Diya came out of the bathroom. She went upto Rohit and swung her wet hair so that his face got wet.
“I’ll get you for that,” Rohit said, holding on to Diya’s hair and pulling on it playfully. Sabika went into the bathroom and started to change.
Rohit is completely crazy if he wants me to wear this to eat pizza. Oh well, she thought, I have to ask him about his roommate. I’m surprised he hasn’t said anything about him. Maybe they don’t get along.
When Sabika got out of the bathroom, Diya and Rohin were sitting on the floor, playing Monopoly. On one roll, Rohin lost a lot of money, and tried to steal it out of the “bank”, which was filled with fake money. Diya caught him, and canceled the game. All the while, Sabika watched.
“Are you ready? God, how long does it take you to change your clothes? I’m guessing it has been about 30 minutes,” Rohit said, finally looking over.
“Uhh…Mr. Rohit, by my watch it has only been about 10,” Sabika said, throwing her coat at him. He caught it.
“Tum dono kabhi apna larna band nahin karsakte?” Diya asked. She got her coat and shoes and put them on.
“Sorry. I will act like a gentleman now,” Rohit said, pretending to help Sabika into her coat, but actually tickling her. Sabika kicked him, which stopped him immediately.
When they were ready, Rohit told them to follow him. So they did. He led them to his room. There he opened his door.
“SAMEER! Come on, let’s go. We’re ready,” he said. Sabika wondered who this Sameer actually was. She curiously looked in the room.
Out of the bathroom, came out a boy or about 19 years. He had black, wavy hair, and stunning, hazel-brown eyes. His complexion was a fair one, and his height looked to be about six feet. He was wearing a white shirt, and blue pants.
Wow, Sabika thought, he’s very good looking. Tho yeh hai Sameer.
“Sameer, this is Diya. Diya, this is Sameer, my roommate,” Rohit introduced Sameer and Diya.
“And this is Sabika, my ‘jaan’. Sabika, this is Sameer. Now let’s get into the car and go get something to eat,” Rohit introduced them too. Sameer shook Sabika’s hand.
Now, the quartet, walked down the crowded hallway of the hostel, and then took the elevator down to the garage. Rohit took Diya’s keys from her and got into the driver’s seat. Sameer got into the passenger seat, and the girls sat in the backseat. About half an hour later, Rohit pulled up at an elegant, and very expensive looking, restaurant. Sabika was surprised.
“I thought you said we were going for pizza? This doesn’t look like a pizza place to me,” Sabika said, getting out of the car. Rohit locked the car, and then started walking towards the restaurant.
“I lied ok. I thought to bring you guys here instead. If you want, I’ll just take you to a pizza place,” Rohit said, backing towards the car.
“No, this is ok. We can eat here. I was just surprised, that’s all,” Sabika said, taking hold of Rohit’s jacket, and yanking him back. All four of the teenagers walked into the restaurant. The interior was done so that one felt like royalty. The seats were made of velvet; the lighting of the restaurant was done to make it look peaceful; there were candles, and flowers at each table.
Rohit, Diya, Sameer, and Sabika were seated at a table so that Diya sat next to Rohit, who was next to Sabika, who was next to Sameer. They ordered a variety of dishes including roasted chicken, kababs, and much more. Rohit kept acting silly and taking bites from Diya and Sabika’s plates. Sabika was trying to talk to Sameer.
“So what are you majoring in?” Sabika asked.
“I’m majoring in medicine,” Sameer said, putting a small piece of spicy chicken in his mouth.
“Me too! So meaning, we might have some of the same classes. That’s awesome,” Sabika said.
“Yes, it will. Hey, after dinner you want to go for a walk with me? I know it’s a bit dark out, but only for about ten minutes?” Sameer asked. Sabika smiled, and nodded her head.
When everyone was done eating, Rohit payed for the food. They drove back to the hostel. Sabika and Sameer, instead of going to their rooms, went outside. They were about to go take a walk, when Rohit caught Sabika’s hand.
“Where do you think you’re going? Who’s gonna help me unpack?” he asked.
“Rohit. I’ll be back in like ten minutes. Then I’ll help you. Why don’t you got and play a game with Diya?” Sabika replied.
“Ok. I’ll be waiting. Bye JAAN,” Rohit said, smiling. Sabika rolled her eyes and went outside with Sameer.

********

LOVE, LIFE AND FRIENDSHIP: CHAPTER 3
Sameer and Sabika, walked to the park near campus.
“You and Rohit, is there anything between you two?” Sameer asked. Sabika laughed.
“NO! That’s a really silly question. He calls me jaan as a joke. He is such a cute thing, and one of my best friends. Isliye, hassi mazak main muje jaan kehta hai. Rohit is…just Rohit. I’ve never even thought of him as anything more than a very good friend,” Sabika explained. A lot people asked that question. But it was always the same answer: they were just very close friends. Sameer looked relieved for some reason or another.
“What I really want to know is how a beautiful girl like you is friends with Rohit, but I don’t get anyone like you,” Sameer said, walking down the pathway with his hands in his pocket. Sabika was walking a little close to him, considering the fact that it was very dark.
“Is someone here getting jealous of Rohit?” Sabika questioned. Sameer smiled.
“No, not jealous, just a bit curious. Tell me about yourself Sabika. You seem to be an interesting person. I…I want to know you better,” Sameer said. Sabika didn’t say anything for a while. Instead, she studied Sameer. She had begun to like him a little. She loved how his voice sounded so deep, and the way he talked was…fascinating. And his smile, it was one that could melt even the coldest of hearts.
“Well, my name is Sabika, and I’m in my first year of college,” Sabika said. Sameer stopped walking and turned to look at her.
“I already know that. I want to know more about you than just that,” he said.
“I like to read, dance, sing, and act. I can be fun, but don’t get on my nerves because I’m short-tempered. I’m easy going, and I want to be a cancer specialist,” Sabika said. She looked at Sameer, who in turn stared back at her. Then, he just started walking again.
“Interesting, but you’re more than what you just told me. From what I see, you’re beautiful, charming, and very nice,” Sameer said.
“Are you trying to flirt with me?” Sabika asked, smiling.
“What if I was?” Sameer said, turning to look at her again.
“Oh, then nothing. I don’t really care. Tell me about yourself. I don’t know much about you, and I want to,” Sabika said.
“Well, I like…..”
TO BE CONTINUED

Rohin · 10th April 2005, 04:46 AM

Hi Warda,

Exciting, Exhilarating .... really too good...
Hats off to you...

The flow is really fantastic... I loved it... Waiting for more...
Keep posting ...

Thanks
Rohin

Mukhra · 10th April 2005, 11:52 PM

LOVE, LIFE, AND FRIENDSHIP: CHAPTER 4

About an hour later, Sabika went back to her room. To her surprise, Rohit was in her room, watching TV. I guess they set up the TV while I was gone, she thought. She shut the door, and Rohit looked up, startled by the noise.
“Oh, it’s just you,” he said, looking scared to death. Sabika looked at the TV. There was a movie called “Ring 2” on. It was supposed to be horrific
“Why? Did I scare you? If you’re that scared, why do you watch horror movies?” she teased him while ruffling his hair. Rohit looked up at her, clearly annoyed.
“I wasn’t scared. You just surprised me,” he said, making up excuses.
“Do you want me to help you unpack?”
“I’ll just do it tomorrow after classes. When’s your first class? Maybe you could help me after that, if you have time,” Rohit asked.
“It’s at 11. When’s yours? Oh, never mind; we are taking the same class. I’ll help you during my lunch hour,” Sabika said, sitting down on her bed. Rohit nodded.
“By the way, you told me you’d be back in ten minutes. It’s been over an hour. What did you and Sameer talk about that it took so long? After all, meri jaan kisi aur larke ke saath time spen kare, tho muje thori si jalan tho hogi na,” he said.
“Shut up yaar. Sameer is a really nice boy. Yeah, a very nice person,” Sabika said softly.
“Uhhan. And it looks like you like him,” Rohit said. He started singing “Mere Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai”. Sabika threw a pillow at him.
“How can I like him? I’m your jaan remember?” she joked.
“Apart from jokes, tell me, are you interested?” Rohit asked quietly, playing with the TV remote. Sabika didn’t say anything, for she didn’t even know if she liked Sameer or not.
“Where’s Diya by the way? I haven’t seen her around here,” Sabika asked, changing the subject.
“She went to roam around the halls so she could get familiar with this place,” Rohit replied.
“Oh ok. Well she should have waited. I don’t want to get lost tomorrow either.”
“Hey Sabika. I’m going back to my room. I’m pretty tired. See you tomorrow ok?” Rohit said, yawning halfway. He started walking towards the door.
“Yeah ok. Don’t forget to your alarm. I don’t think you want to be late on the first day you?” Sabika reminded him while turning on the computer. Rohit stopped walking, and turnd around. For a minute, he rummaged through his pockets until he found what he as looking for. It was a small, blue box.
“I almost forgot. I bought this for you. I thought you’d like it,” Rohit said, throwing the box at Sabika and running out of the room. Sabika caught the box, and silently thanked Rohit for the gift. However, when she opened the box, her thoughts changed. The box contained……….a fake snake that jumped out at her. Boy oh boy, Rohit, she thought, I’m gonna make you be sorry for this. But in reality, Sabika was smiling. She was lucky to have a friend who made her laugh and enjoy life.
Diya came back while Sabika was reading something on the computer.
“You’re still up?” Diya asked, lying down on her bed.
“Yeah, I was just checking something online,” Sabika replied, reading a medical report on sever headaches.
“Oh. How was your walk with Sameer? It seems to me, you both get along really well,” Diya remarked. Sabika turned away from the computer.
“It was fun. I got to know him a bit more. He’s really interesting. He…makes me want to spend more time with him,” Sabika said, blushing.
“Ab baat yahan tak pohonch gayi,” Diya said, smiling, “Well, I’m going to sleep. Good night.”
Sabika turned off the computer, and went to bed. In about five minutes, she was asleep, lost in the world of dreams.
****
“Wake up…wake up…wake up…wake up,” went a high-pitched voice.
“Aargh!” Sabika said from under her blanket. She reached her hand out, and pressed the off button on the alarm clock. It took about ten minutes for Sabika to get out of bed. Then, it took her about another hour before she actually got ready for class.
Many days went with going to class, doing homework, and studying for tests. The evening were always filled with fun and laughter when the quartet: Sameer, Sabika, Rohit, and Diya got together. It was a normal college life.
One day was different from the others. Sabika ran to her theater class, thinking she was late. However, the room was empty. No one could be seen. Am I late or did Rohit change the time on my clock as a joke, she wondered.
Sabika was about to g oback to her room when an arm encircled her waist and pulled her into one of the side rooms of the class.
“Look who I caught just in time.”

LOVE, LIFE, AND FRIENDSHIP: CHAPTER 5
“Look who I caught just in time.”
Sabika turned around to see that it was Sameer.
“Oh hey. Did Rohit change your clock too so that you would be early? Class hasn’t started yet,” she said. Sameer smiled, and shook his head.
“No…I was just hoping to catch you. I have to ask you something,” he said.
“Sure, tell me. What is it?” Sabika asked.
“Well turn around first….and close your eyes too,” Sameer said. Sabika did as she was told. She heard some rustling coming from behind her. It sounded a lot like crinkly paper.
“Ok. You can turn around now. Oh yeah, and open you eyes too,” Sameer said. Sabika turned around and opened her eyes. She only saw Sameer. Then, he produced a bouquet of roses from behind.
“They…they’re beautiful. But why’d you get these for me?” Sabika asked. The roses were indeed beautiful. Every rose had a soft, velvety touch. The color of red could not have been any purer. The stems didn’t have a single thorn on them. The roses were, what people would call, perfect.
“Well, you said you loved roses…so I thought I’d get you some,” Sameer said sheepishly.
“Th-Thanks. I really appreciate this,” Sabika stammered out. She looked at him, and he gazed at her with intent hazel brown eyes.
“Will you…will you go to the Sadie’s dance with me?” Sameer asked. The Sadie’s dance was the first dance Boston University had every year. It was a formal occasion, almost like a prom but not really. Sameer looked down into Sabika’s eyes. All Sabika could think was how beautiful his eyes were. The way his hair fell into his eyes was absolutely amazing.
“I…I would love to go with you,” Sabika said. Sameer smiled his charming smile. Then he picked her up, and took her into the main classroom. He set Sabika down next to Rohit and Diya, and then sat down himself. Rohit just stared, while Diya smiled with a knowing look in her eyes.
****
The next two weeks were spent finding perfect dresses for the Sadie’s. Duya and Sabika had spent all their spare time in different designer stores, looking for something that would be a good dress. Rohit would sometimes help look, but Sabika told Sameer he wasn’t allowed to see her dress until she wore it on the night of the dance.
One designer store, in particular, only sold gowns. Rohit and Sabika went to look for Sabika’s dress there. There was a huge variety of beautiful dresses. There was a dark maroon one that went all the way down to Sabika’s feet. It was lovely, and fitted her perfectly. When she came out of the dressing room wearing the dress, she showed it to Rohit. Rohit did not like it much, and looked for another dress. He selected a blue gown. It was beautiful as well, and Sabika wondered why she hadn’t seen that one before. The dress was made of a blue gauzy material, with rhinestones on the inside so that the outside was just a shimmering wonder. The top was strapless, and was a regular silk blue. It was beautiful. This time, when Sabika wore the blue dress, Rohit just stared.
“You should buy that dress. It’s perfect for you,” he said quietly. Sabika took the dress to the counter and paid for it.
“Let’s go. I am tired of shopping,” she said. Rohit took the bag that held the dress and put it in the backseat of the car.
“Mr. Rohit, what are you going to wear?” Sabika asked him. Rohit looked at her and then averted his eyes back to the road.
“I’ll just wear one of my suits. Or you could help me look for a better suit. But I see no point in it. My jaan is going with someone else, tho mera wahan kya kaam,” he said. Sabika reached over and planted a kiss on Rohit’s cheek. Rohit smiled.
“I’ll help you look for a suit, but I think you should wear the green suit. You look so cute in it. That kiss was to make you feel better. You haven’t been acting like yourself these days,” Sabika remarked.
“Sorry yaar. I just have a lot of work to do, so I haven’t had time to tease you,” Rohit said, tugging on Sabika’s hair. She smiled.
“Concentrate on your driving,” Sabika said.
****
On the evening of the dance, Sabika locked herself in the bathroom early. She wanted to have everything be perfect. She did her makeup, and put on her dress. All the while, Diya had been pounding on the door, pleading for Sabika to get out quicker. The knocking had ceased after a while. Diya had gone to one of her other friends’ room to change. Sabika took the rollers out of her hair, and lo and behold, her hair was curly and beautiful, just the way she had wanted it.
“Are you almost done in there? It’s Rohit. I need you to help me iron my shirt,” Rohit said, knocking on the door. Sabika opened the door.
“How do I look?” she asked Rohit.
“Beautiful. Now iron my shirt for me please,” Rohit said, not paying attention to how Sabika looked. Sabika took the shirt from him, and ironed it. Rohit put it on, and then put his forest green jacket on.
“Is Sameer ready yet?” Sabika asked, anxiously looking out the door.
“No. Last time I checked, he was in the shower,” Rohit said, looking into Sabika’s mirror and fixing his coat.
“Well, I’m ready. All the girls will only have eyes for me tonight, you just see,” Rohit said. He did look very cute, but then, to Sabika, Rohit had always been cute because of his personality.
Ten minutes later, Sameer arrived.
TO BE CONTINUED

Mukhra · 17th April 2005, 10:43 PM

LOVE, LIFE, AND FRIENDSHIP: CHAPTER 6
Sameer knocked on Sabika’s door. Sabika opened the door, and let him in.
“Wow! You look…beautiful,” he said, handing Sabika a bouquet of flowers and a box of chocolates. Sabika smiled and took the gift. Sameer looked nice too. He was wearing a light tan suit, with a dark brown shirt underneath. It was not the kind of suit Sabika would have liked, but on Sameer, it looked good.
“Thanks. Shall we go?” Sabika asked. Sameer held out his arm, which Sabika took, and they walked to his car. Sameer drove professionally, concentrating on his driving, and going at a good speed. When they got to the place the dance was being held at, Sameer got out of the car. He walked to Sabika’s side and heldthe door open for her.
“Milady, vill you dance vith me ven ve are inside?” he said, mocking Dracula.
“Vhy of course I vill,” Sabika said, laughing. They went inside. The room had been decorated for the occasion. There were banners on the walls stating the occasion, the theme had been set to being formal, and the lights were coordinated with the songs that were played. There was a slow song being played at the moment, and Sameer led Sabika to the dance floor. They danced to the rhythm.
After a while, Sabika started getting tired; she was wearing high-heels, shoes she seldom wore. She stopped dancing and went to sit down.
“What’s wrong? Don’t you want to dance?” Sameer asked, looking concerned. He checked her forehead for a temperature, byt found her to be ok.
“I’m fine. I’d love to dance, but my shoes are killing me,” Sabika said, wincing as she stood up.
“Come on then. I’ll take you somewhere else,” Sameer said, taking her hand and helping her to his car. Once at the car, Sabika collapsed into the seat, and held her head. She had a very bad headache, but she didn’t want that to get in the way. Sameer got into the car, and drove to a lake. He helped Sabika out of the car, and took off her shoes.
“Feeling better now? The soft dirt should help you a bit,” he said. Sabika smiled thanks and relaxed on the hood of the car. Sameer went inside the car, and popped a CD into the CD player. Soft music started playing.
“Would you care to dance?” Sameer asked. Sabika took his hand and slid off the hood. They danced in the moonlight. Sabika was having the time of her life, until she felt something on her back. Sameer was trying to unzip the back of her dress. Sabika pushed him away angrily.
“WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU ARE DOING?” she asked.
“Come on, Sabika. It’s not that bad. I love you,” Sameer said, trying to hug her, but Sabika pushed away.
“LOVE ME? YOU WERE JUST TRYING TO HURT ME!” she shot back.
Sameer, she thought, you are not the person I thought you were.
“I would never hurt you,” he said, reaching for her again.
“Don’t touch me,” Sabika said, pushing his arm away as if it were a deadly snake. Sameer looked hurt.
“I’m sorry. I won’t do it again. Let’s go back,” Sameer said. Sabika shook her head, and started walking barefoot on the road. She was not going to go with him. She shivered. It was beginning to get very cold, but things couldn’t get possibly worse could they? However, she was wrong. Within the next minute, it started to snow.
Oh great. Now I have to walk back home because I was stupid and left my cell phone on my desk.
A car came behind Sabika. It was Sameer. He stopped the car in front of her.
“Get in or you will freeze to death,” Sameer said, opening the passenger door. Sabika silently got in the car. It was very cold so she had no choice. The whole way, neither of them talked. Sameer parked the car near the dormitories, and turned around.
“Sabika, stop it. I told you I was sorry so don’t give me the silent treatment,” Sameer said, looking exasperated. Sabika just got out of the car and walked to her room.
When she got to her room, she fell down on her bed, and fell asleep crying.
LOVE, LIFE, AND FRIENDSHIP: CHAPTER 7
The next morning, Sabika woke up. She hurriedly got dressed, and ran to her class, avoiding everyone. When she got there, she found the room empty. Oh yeah, we were supposed to meet in the auditorium today, she thought. She was about to go the other way when she saw Sameer walk into the classroom.
“Hi Sabika! I’m sorry for last night. S-someone…put something in my drink. I’m sorry I acted so stupid. I would never try to hurt you,” Sameer said, looking truly sorry.
“Class is being held in the auditorium today,” Sabika said coldly. Sameer looked hurt by the sound of her voice.
“Hey! I told you I was sorry, ok? What do I have to do to make you believe me?” Sameer asked. Sabika turned around.
“Listen. You and I, we’re over. We never really were together, but we’re over for good now,” Sabika said, slamming the door to the classroom as she walked out into the hall. There she told herself to calm down, and not start crying. She had a headache already, and the crying was only going to make it worse.
For the rest of the day, Sabika went through her normal classes. When class ended, she went to her room instead of the usual place where she would meet Rohit, and Diya.
She locked herself in the room, and thought. Why had she loved a person who hurt her? She didn’t love him anymore, she hated him. She hated him for trying to hurt her. She hated him for what he was. She tried to hate him for every little thing, but the truth was, she still loved him. She had tried to stop loving him, but it hadn’t worked. Rrrriiing!!! Her cell phone beeped. It was Rohit.
“Yeah Rohit, what is it?” she asked.
“Where are you? Diya went somewhere else with one of her other friends, and you’re not here either. I’ve been waiting for you,” Rohit said over the phone.
“I’m sorry. I just don’t feel well,” Sabika said. She didn’t feel well actually. Her headaches had been getting worse as the days progressed, but she had kept this hidden from everyone.
“Ok. Well, I’ll talk to you later,” Rohit said. Sabika hung up the phone. She sat in her room, letting the darkness surround her. It felt good to be alone, away from the world. But it also reminded her of Sameer, of whom she didn’t want to think about. A knock startled her. She went to open the door.
“Sabika, jaan, what’s wrong?” Rohit asked, seeing the look on Sabika’s face and giving her a hug. Sabika closed the door, and motioned for him to sit down. He did.
“Nothing’s wrong. I just am in a pretty bad mood because of an idiot who…” she broke off and started crying. Rohit gave her another hug. He comforted her; making soft noises, and trying to make her stop crying.
“If this is about Sameer, then I already know. He…he didn’t mean it. He really is sorry. He….loves you,” Rohit said.
“I know,” Sabika said, nustling her head on Rohit’s shoulder. Rohit lifter her chin.
“Do you love him?” he asked.
“Yes,” Sabika said after a long pause. Rohit looked hurt, but tried to hide it by smiling.
“Then you should forgive him. If you waste too much time like this, you will never get anywhere, but in the miserable world you have been living in for the past two days,” Rohit said softly.
“I know, but I can’t forgive him just yet. I need to get myself together first,” Sabika said, wiping her eyes and standing up.
“But right now, I need to go to my doctor’s appointment. Could you take me?” she asked Rohit. Rohit nodded, and got Sabika’s coat and shoes for her. He helped her put them on, and then took her to the doctor’s.
Sabika loved going to the doctor. It gave her an excuse to ask medical questions, but today, Sabika waited alone Dr. Howard’s office. The doctor himself was in the lab., looking at the report. He came back with a serious expression on his face.
“Hi Dr. Howard. How are you?” Sabika asked.
“I’m fine Sabika. Tell me, have you been having severe headaches lately?” the doctor asked, with a solemn expression on his face.
“Yes…but why are you asking,” Sabika asked. He had never asked her anything like this before.
“I know this is going to be a little harsh on you. From the last medical report, I saw something that isn’t right. I don’t know why we didn’t notice this before, but…” Dr. Howard broke off. Sabika waited, with a fear in her heart that something terrible was going to happen.
“Sabika, you have brain tumor,” the doctor said.
TO BE CONTINUED
Can someone please tell me how this story is going? I would hate to write and not have it appreciated by others.

Rohin · 18th April 2005, 02:03 AM

Hi Warda,

Keep writing dear...the flow is really very nice... just a request post each chapter in a seperate post...so that it is easier to read...i am following the story closely and would love to read ahead so please keep posting dear....

Thanks
Rohin

ajmal · 18th April 2005, 02:02 PM

Toooooo laaarrrrggggeeeee yaarr..
I cant read this...
Sorry..

Ajmal

snowy · 19th April 2005, 01:06 AM

nice story...plz continue writting

Mukhra · 20th April 2005, 11:48 PM

Love, Life, and Friendship: Chapter 8

“Sabika, you have brain tumor,” the doctor said. Sabika just stared. As the news sank in, she started feeling cold.

“Wait, what?” she said, praying that the doctor was joking. The doctor repeated what he had said. Sabika held onto the bed stand so that she wouldn’t fall.

“What stage is it? Can you operate on it?” Sabika asked. On certain stages of brain tumor, operations were possible.

“Your tumor is on the last stage…so we can’t operate on it. I know this news is big for you, but calm down. I again say, that I am shocked on why we didn’t discover this sooner,” Dr. Howard said, reaching a hand towards Sabika and helping her sit down.

“How long do I have?” she asked.
“A month at the most. Unfortunately your tumor has advanced so much in a short period of time that we can’t try to operate on it.

“Do I have to take any medicine?” Sabika asked.

“Yes. I will prescribe some medicines so that it will dull the pain of your headaches. Besides that, we can’t do anything else about this,” Dr. Howard said, getting his notepad and writing down some medications. Sabika took the paper and studied what the doctor had written. She couldn’t read the medicine names, but at the bottom of the paper, it said “URGENT”.

“Th-thank you,” Sabika said. She walked silently back to the waiting room, where Rohit was waiting. When he saw her, he got up, and went to her. Sabika hurriedly hid the paper.

“Everything is okay, right?” Rohit asked. Sabika nodded and walked to the car. She got in and told Rohit to go to the pharmacy.

“Why do you need to go to the pharmacy?” Rohit asked, looking suspicious.

“Oh, umm…I ran out of Tylenol so I’m just going to go and buy that. I think I might be getting a cold, so I just want to have Tylenol is I need it,” Sabika said, not looking at Rohit. If she looked at him, she wouldn’t be able to pull off a lie like that. He would know there was something wrong.

“Ok. Then you wait in the car, and I will get the Tylenol for you,” Rohit said, pulling up at the pharmacy. Sabika put a hand on his arm.

“No, I’ll just go myself. You know I hate to swallow pills so I’m going to look for the smallest ones,” Sabika said. Rohit sighed and stayed in the car. Sabika went in the pharmacy and went straight to the medicine counter. She gave a pharmacist the paper Dr. Howard had written. The pharmacist read the paper, and told Sabika that the medicine would be ready in about ten minutes.

I should look for some Tylenol so that I have an excuse for Rohit, she thought. She found a bottle of Tylenol with small pills inside it. Sabika walked up to the counter and paid for the real medicine, along with the Tylenol as well. She put the pain relievers in her purse, and kept the Tylenol in her hand, and walked to the car.

“It took you that long to find some Tylenol?” Rohit asked, starting the car as Sabika got in.

“Well, I was looking for the kind that I can actually swallow,” Sabika explained. The rest of the way, Rohit and Sabika drove in silence, seldom talking.

“Rohit, what would you do if I told you I had brain tumor?” Sabika asked timidly. Rohit sped up a bit.

“I’d tell you to shut up and never say that, even as a joke again. Why did you just ask me that?” Rohit said.

“Oh, I just wanted to see if you actually cared about me as a friend,” Sabika replied. Rohit pulled up at campus, and dropped Sabika off at her room.

“I’ll see you in a while, ok? I’m going to go get something to eat,” Rohit said. Sabika nodded and opened the door to her room. Diya was there, writing.

“Hi Diya,” Sabika said, hanging up her coat.

“Hi. Where were you?” Diya asked.

“I had a doctor’s appointment so Rohit took me.”

“Oh. Where’s Rohit then?”

“He went to get something to eat,” Sabika said while going into the bathroom. She closed the door, and turned around. She studied her face in the mirror.

Ok, I'm not going to tell anybody. If I do, they will treat me like a baby, Sabika thought, making up her mind. She washed her face, put on a fake smile, and walked out of the bathroom.

When Rohit came back, she had some pizza. Later, she went to bed, while Rohit and Diya went with Sameer to a football game. Sabika had wanted to go, but her head had been throbbing with pain. She had taken the medicine Dr. Howard had prescribed, but it hadn’t really helped. Sabika forced herself to go to sleep.

Mukhra · 20th April 2005, 11:55 PM

LOVE, LIFE, AND FRIENDSHIP: CHAPTER 9

Over the time of two weeks, Sabika tried to have as much fun with her friends as possible. The fun didn’t include Sameer, however. She had tried to bring up the courage to talk to him, but had failed. Sameer, too, had given up trying to talk to her. Every time the quartet went somewhere, Sabika would sit with Rohit and talk to him more than Sameer. One day, Sameer gave her a rose, but Sabika just said thanks, and went back to talking to Rohit.

As her headaches increased, Sabika’s ability to do work and regular things decreased. Her grades slowly declined, for she wasn’t up to doing work. She had once been the class valedictorian, but had now changed to having one of the lowest grades. Rohit and Diya noticed this, and tried to talk to her.
Sabika would make excuses, and tell them not to worry about it.

One day, Rohit took her for a drive. She had been feeling suffocated in her room, so he had taken her outside for some fresh air. Rohit stopped the car at a park, and turned sideways to look at Sabika.

“All right, now you are going to talk. You’ve changed so much over the past two weeks, I’m getting worried. What is wrong with you, Sabika?” Rohit asked solemnly. He waited. Sabika didn’t look at him for a while.

“Nothing’s wrong with me. I just want to have some fun,” Sabika said.

“You used to have a lot more fun before. You had time for me, Diya, Sameer, and your schoolwork. Now, well, you spend time with us, but you never pay attention anymore. I want my jaan back. I liked the Sabika before,” Rohit said.

“Maybe it’s you that has changed; not me. Rohit, have you ever thought of it that way?” Sabika asked, her voice rising up a knot.

“No, Sabika. It isn’t me; it’s you. Everyone had noticed the change. And what is up with you and Sameer? You told me you would talk to him, but you still haven’t done so,” Rohit said softly. Sabika looked up at him at that moment.

“I will talk to him. I was going to talk to him today, but then, you took me here,” Sabika said. She couldn’t look in his eyes. Rohti knew her enough to tell when she was lying or not.

“You’re lying and you know that. Sabika, look at me,” Rohit said. Sabika did.

“You are going to talk to Sameer tomorrow. If you don’t, then I will. Promise me you will talk to Sameer,” Rohit said. Sabika promised. Rohit hugged her, and took her back to campus.

The whole night, Sabika tried to focus on what she was going to say to Sameer. She couldn’t. She had a bad headache, which was worse than the ones before. There were red spots that were blocking her vision to see clearly. It hurt so much; Sabika’s eyes were running constantly with tears. She felt as if a dagger was constantly stabbing her head. Sabika went to sleep.

***

The next morning, she was no better. Still, she dragged herself to her first class, where Rohit waited.

“Come on, I’ll take you to Sameer. This class isn’t going to begin for a while,” Rohit said, taking Sabika’s hand, and walking towards the photography wing. Sabika walked slowly. Halfway there, she started getting a headache. The ground was spinning in front of her, and the red blotches were there again. She walked unsteadily, and Rohit stopped when she took her hand away from him.

“Sabika, are you okay?” Rohit asked. Sabika fell at that moment, and fainted. She was shaking, and her lips were turning a sickly blue color, for her body was running out of oxygen.

TO BE CONTINUED

snowy · **hi... -** 24th April 2005, 12:25 AM

hey gr8...to see u have written 2 more chapters...

keep up the good work...

Mukhra · 7th May 2005, 10:40 PM

CHAPTER 10

Rohit did CPR on Sabika, and then gently, but quickly put her in his car. He drove to the hospital like a madman escaping.

“Just hold on there jaan. Don’t do this to me,” Rohit said, looking over at Sabika, whose skin had turned to a sickly yellow, but was breathing. She looked haggard, with her beautiful brown hair drenched with sweat. Rohit entered the emergency part of the hospital. He stopped the car, and called some medics over. Together, they quickly put Sabika onto a stretcher and took her into a room. Rohit held her hand as the medics put her down on the bed. One medic put an oxygen mask on Sabika, and the other took her blood pressure, pulse, and temperature. She had a very high fever, which could be fatal if not brought down. The room was cooled to help the fever.

All the while, Rohit kept asking the medics questions, but no one told him anything. The response was always, “You will have to wait for the doctor”. Rohit got frustrated by this and waited for the doctor to come. In about an hour or so, Sabika started to arouse, and Rohit soothed her.

“Sabika, what happened? Is something wrong? Are you okay?” he asked. Before Sabika could reply, the doctor came in. It was Dr. Howard, Sabika’s specialist.

“Dr. Howard, what’s wrong? What’s wrong with Sabika?” Rohit asked, shaking.

“Sabika has brain tumor,” the doctor said, studying Rohit. Rohit, in turn, slumped into one of the couches, and stared at Sabika. He ran a hand through his tousled hair, and looked up at the doctor with defeated eyes.

“Can we do anything? Can I do anything?” he asked. The doctor shook his head.

“We can operate to dull the pain, but we can’t do anything to take out the tumor,” Dr. Howard said.

“Don’t operate on me. It’s okay, the pain isn’t that bad,” Sabika said, struggling to speak.

“Well, we can’t operate on you unless we have your consent. In the meantime, I’m going to increase the dosage of your medicine. But instead of that, we can’t do anything else,” the doctor said. Sabika nodded and turned on the television, as if she didn’t care at all. Dr. Howard went out of the room, followed by Rohit. Once they were outside, Rohit jogged to the doctor.

“Dr. Howard, how much time does she have?” Rohit asked.

“We can’t say exactly how much, but she doesn’t have much,” Dr. Howard replied.

“Then, can we take her back to the university?” Rohit asked.

“I’m sorry, but we will have to keep her here until she starts to get better. If in four days, she doesn’t get better, then we will have to take another course of action, but we can’t do anything at this point, unfortunately.”

“Then, is there any way I can help?”

“I told you already. You can’t help in this. There isn’t any possible way we could operate on your brain to make hers better. We will end up killing you both instead. Now, I will be back to check on Sabika in a few hours,” Dr. Howard walked away. Rohit was left alone, in the long, deserted hallway. He felt as if there was nothing left to live for.

I'm useless for her, he thought, I can't even do anything to help her, to help my jaan. . Rohit wandered around the hospital for a while, alone in his own world, thinking about Sabika. Later when he went back, he found Sabika watching T.V. He silently went to her, and sat down beside her.

“Hi. How are you feeling?” Rohit asked softly.

“I’m having the best time in the world watching boring T.V. shows,” Sabika said sarcastically.

“Looks like you’re feeling a little better,” Rohit said, a smile creeping at the corner of his lips. He held her hand, and stroked her thumb.

“Yeah, I do feel a little better. The oxygen must have helped. Tell me, did anybody else come to see me yet?” she asked.

“If you mean Sameer, then he is on his way here. Diya’s also coming with him,” Rohit said. He knew she was asking about Sameer.

“Sabika, you’re going to be ok, right?” Rohit asked. Sabika gave him a tired smile.

“Come here,” Sabika said. He leaned over, and Sabika slowly wrapped her arms around him. He returned the hug, but was careful not to hurt her. Just as Rohit was pulling away from her, there was a knock on the door.

TO BE CONTINUED

Rohin · 8th May 2005, 06:42 AM

Hi Sis,

How are u?.... Sorry replying a little late I have been a bit busy....

Really wonderful flow and I am waiting to read more and more....
Really beautiful flow....keep posting .... I will wait.....

Ur Big B
Rohin

Mukhra · 8th May 2005, 10:33 PM

Chapter 11

Diya and Sameer came in the room. Diya had a bouquet in her hands, and Sameer had a basket with a teddy bear in it. Both were her favorite gifts. Diya came over and put the flowers on the table. Sameer, however, took the teddy bear out of the basket, and put it on the bed beside Sabika. Rohit remained sitting next to Sabika.

“Sabika, you okay?” Diya asked. Sabika turned her attention to her and nodded. Then, she looked at Sameer, waiting for him to say something, anything.

“Rohit, has the doctor said anything else yet? I mean, is there anything else we can do?” Diya asked. Sameer still hadn’t said anything.

“He…he said there’s nothing they can do now,” Rohit said. He stood up from the bed and went to stand next to Diya. Sabika looked at him, with a worried expression on her face.

“Don’t worry. You will be all right,” Diya said to Sabika.

“Thanks Diya. If that is possible,” Sabika said, without thinking. Everyone became silent. If anyone else had walked into the room at that moment, he/she would have been able to feel the heavy tension in the air.

“I’m kidding yaar,” Sabika said, forcing a fake laugh. Everyone else smiled, but the smile didn’t reach their eyes, which looked old from tragedies. The door opened, and Dr. Howard entered.

“Oh! Hello everyone. I will need you three to step out for a few minutes so that I can examine Sabika. And, one of you has to stay with Sabika tonight. Only one though,” Dr. Howard said, getting out his stethoscope, and going over to Sabika. Sameer, Diya, and Rohit silently walked out of the room. They walked to the deserted waiting room.

“Well, I’ll just stay with Sabika tonight,” Rohit said, sitting down.

“No. I’ll stay with her,” Sameer argued.

“Are you kidding me? I was here first, so I should stay,” Rohit shot back.

“I don’t care for that. You got to stay with her enough. I love her, so I’m staying,” Sameer said firmly, his voice getting a bit louder.

“Oh ho! You love her! You love her? If you loved her, you would be the one to bring her here, not me. You would know there was something wrong with her. If you loved her, you would spend every moment with her, instead of making up excuses like, ‘oh, I have work to do; I have to study for my exams’. If you loved her, you’d apologize and actually talk to her, instead of giving her the silent treatment. I noticed you didn’t talk to her today, not even a hello. If you loved her, then you would know she loves you too. If you loved her…” Rohit’s voice cracked. He turned away from Diya and Sameer, and hurriedly wiped the tears from his eyes.

“Just, please, let me stay with her,” Rohit pleaded.

“Rohit, you are crazy. I do love her. Why do you think I came here to see her? Because I love her. Let me stay,” Sameer said softly. None of the boys said Sabika’s name, for it hurt to say it.

“No! I-I already told you I’m staying with her,” Rohit said.

“Ok! Stop fighting. I will stay with Sabika. You two can go home, and then one of you can stay with her tomorrow. We will take turns,” Diya said.

“All right, but I get to stay with her tomorrow then,” Rohit said reluctantly. This started another row of arguing between Sameer and Rohit.

“Both of you shut up RIGHT NOW! You’re in a hospital for God’s sake. Rohit, you can stay with her tomorrow, and Sameer, you can stay with her the day after tomorrow. Then we will switch if Sabika needs to stay here longer,” Diya said, closing the matter.

Both boys silently nodded and went back to their seats. They waited until they were allowed to see Sabika again. Sameer and Rohit practically ran to her room, trying to get their first. They both arrived at the same time, and opened the door. Sabika was sitting up, eating dinner.

“How are you, my jaan?” Rohit asked going over to her, and kissing her gently on the cheek. Sameer watched from the back.

“I’m fine Rohit. How are you Sameer?” Sabika asked, looking at him expectantly.

“Oh uh, I’m fine,” Sameer was caught completely off guard. He hadn’t expected her to talk to him. He moved a little closer to the bed.

“Sabika, I’ll be right back ok?” Rohit said, slowly taking his hand away from her. Sabika nodded, all the while looking at Sameer. Rohit silently left the hospital room, and closed the door. For a few minutes, Sameer and Sabika just looked at each other, not knowing what to say. Then, Sameer moved to sit beside Sabika.

“Hi,” he said softly.

“Hi. We haven’t talked for a while,” Sabika said.

“Yeah. I missed talking to you…and you,” Sameer said gently.

“I have to tell you something,” Sabika said hurriedly.

“Wait, let me tell you what I have to say. I can only stay for a few minutes,” Sameer said.

“Then, tell me what you have to say,” Sabika answered. Sameer said nothing for a couple of minutes. He fidgeted, trying to figure out a way to say what he wanted to.

“I…” but couldn’t go any further, for a nurse had come in.

“I’m sorry for interrupting, but sir, you will have to leave,” the nurse said to Sameer. Sameer sighed, and walked out of the room. Just before he exited, he turned around, and mouthed a good-bye to Sabika.

Mukhra · 8th May 2005, 10:37 PM

CHAPTER 12

While Sameer had been talking to Sabika, Diya and Rohit had had their own little conversation.

“So, what was up between you and Sameer today?” Diya asked.

“What are you talking about?” Rohit asked bitterly.

“I’m talking about the way you two fought today. What was up with that?” Diya said.

“Well, it’s not my fault. He was the one who was arguing. I had just said I would stay with Sabika, and he just started yelling,” Rohit said, exaggerating what had really happened.

“Right. Well, by the way you were pleading to stay with her, one would think you loved Sabika,” Diya said lightly.

“Yeah well, people just want an excuse to make things up,” Rohit lied. He knew very well that Diya was very close to the truth.

“Hmmm. Don’t lie to me. I’ve been friends with you for a long time, maybe not as long as Sabika, but long enough to know how you feel,” Diya said gently.

“Diya, you just think that, but seriously, she is just my friend,” Rohit said. His lies were piling up by the minute.

“Hmmm.” Diya answered. At that moment, Sameer came into the waiting room.

“You’re supposed to be with her now,” Sameer said to Diya.

“Yeah, I’m going there. You two go back to campus, but don’t fight,” Diya reprimanded them. The two boys nodded, and walked to the parking lot. They didn’t talk, but silently walked to their cars and drove away. When they arrived to campus, Sameer went straight to his room, while Rohit took a detour and went to Sabika and Diya’s room first.

There, he went over to Sabika’s closet, and rummaged through it until he found what he was looking for. It was the blue salwar kameez she had worn on the day they arrived to the university.

She had looked so beautiful in this. Rohit thought, smiling sadly.

Rohit was lost in his thoughts when his cell phone rang. He looked at the number. It was Diya.

“Hi Diya,” he said.

“Rohit, you and Sameer better get here quickly. I don’t have time to explain…just get here,” Diya said urgently.

To BE CONTINUED

snowy · 9th May 2005, 12:50 AM

warda ji...

aapne yaha per story kyu chod di...now i am sooo curious to ready ahead...
plz post the next chapter soon...

nice story...

bye..take care

friendnidhi · 9th May 2005, 09:05 AM

Hi Mukhra jii the storyis very nice and painful pls continue the story

Regards Nidhi

Mukhra · 11th May 2005, 03:54 AM

CHAPTER 13

“Wait. Diya, what’s wrong?” Rohit asked but Diya had already hung up. Rohit quickly put Sabika’s things back, and ran to his dormitory. He opened the door, and saw Sameer on the computer.

“What...what are you doing?” Rohit asked breathless.

“Checking something on brain tumor. What’s it to you?” Sameer said, not looking up.

“I don’t care what you do. Just get in the car. Diya just called and told us to get to the hospital fast. I don’t know why, but let’s go,” Rohit said, all the same time getting Sameer’s shoes for him. Sameer out his shoes on, and together, they ran to Rohit’s car. Rohit drove faster than ever before, trying to get to the hospital in time before something terrible happened. His car screeched to a halt, and he ran to Sabika’s room, Sameer running alongside with him.

Breathless, they got to the room, and barged in without knocking. Diya was there, sitting next to Sabika. Sabika had an oxygen mask on, and her skin looked blue.

“What’s wrong?” Sameer asked.

“Sabika stopped breathing, so the doctors gave her some oxygen. It’s not helping as much as they thought it would,” Diya said, tears in her eyes.

“Have you called her parents?” Rohit asked quietly.

“Yeah, but they are on a cruise. As soon as they land, they will get a plane, and fly back here,” Diya replied. Sameer pushed Diya aside, and sat next to Sabika. He stroked her hair, all the while just looking at her, waiting for her to wake up, and look at him. Rohit called the doctor in the room.

“Dr. Howard, how long does she need the oxygen mask on?” he asked.

“Well, I was just coming here to take it off anyways. We can’t give her too much oxygen at the same time. I’m afraid we can’t do anything now,” the doctor said, removing the oxygen mask. As soon as he removed the mask, Sabika woke up. She looked around at everyone, and smiled, wincing at the effort. Dr. Howard left the room to get more equipment.

“You can only see her one at a time,” he said before closing the door behind them. Rohit and Sameer left the room; both wanting to be the one Sabika would spend her last moments with.

Diya went over to sit next to Sabika again.

“This is it, isn’t it?” Sabika said, looking at Diya. Diya shook her head, and wiped the tears from her eyes.

“Don’t say that. You will get better,” she said, not believing what she had said.

“Diya, do you remember when we used to be little? We had nothing to worry about, but who we liked, and what the latest fashion was,” Sabika said. Diya remembered those memories. Those were the good old days, when nothing was wrong.

“Yeah, I remember. We used to have so much fun, and we got into a load of trouble too,” she said.

“Hmmm. Remember the first time we met Rohit?”

“Yeah. Sabika, weren’t we in second grade when we met him?”

“Yes. He wouldn’t let you play tag with him, and I got all mad about that, so I took his cookies from him during lunch. Then, my mom yelled at me for that, and I had to say sorry,” Sabika smiled.

“I used to hate him so much, because when you two became friends, he never used to let me near you. Then one day, I kicked his leg, and we fought in your house. You were just standing there, laughing your head off while he was pulling my hair. But then, we were a bit nicer to each other, and actually became friends,” Diya said, smiling at the thought.

Diya and Sabika talked about their childhood for at least an hour. Then, Diya came out of the room, crying. Rohit went and gave her a hug. They stood there for a few minutes until Rohit went into the room.

“Hi. How are you?” Rohit asked Sabika.

“You say the same thing every time you talk to me,” Sabika said. She tried to smile, but her head hurt too much to be able to.

“Next time I won’t say that.”

“Good.”

“Sabika, you will always be my jaan.”

“I’m honored to be your jaan. You will always be my best friend.”

“I’ve been you friend for almost twelve years.” Rohit said.

“Yes, you have. I’m glad for that,” Sabika said, closing her eyes and smiling.

“Sabika? I want to tell you something,” Rohit said, taking her hand between his and stroking it.

“Hmmm?” she yawned. Rohit looked at her. His beautiful jaan was dying and he couldn’t do anything about it. She had never needed makeup to look nice. She was beautiful naturally. Rohit smiled and wiped his moist eyes. He was not going to start crying. He needed to tell her something, something important.

“I love you,” Rohit whispered, but no, Sabika did not hear him, for she had fallen into a deep sleep. Rohit kissed her hands lightly, and quietly went out of her room.

When he went back to the waiting room, Sameer was waiting. He looked up when Rohit came into the room.

“She’s sleeping, but if you want, you can go in,” Rohit told him. Sameer nodded, and walked into the hospital room. Sameer had been expecting Sabika to be asleep. He had expected her to feel better, but when he walked in, he found a horror awaiting him.

TO BE CONTINUED

friendnidhi · 12th May 2005, 07:47 AM

Hi mukhra Ji,
Pls continue te story as soon as possible...

Regards Nidhi

Mukhra · 14th May 2005, 01:53 AM

CHAPTER 14

Sabika was thrashing on the bed. She was struggling with something, but Sameer couldn’t tell what it was. All he could see was that tears were coming out of her closed eyes. He quickly went over to her, and woke her up.

“Sabika? What’s wrong?” Sameer asked once Sabika was awake.

“N-nothing. I can’t seem to breathe correctly right now. And I can’t see right either. Everything is blurry…,” Sabika said, taking deep breaths at the same time. I hope Sameer doesn't know losing your eyesight is one of the first signs of death, Sabika thought.

“Sabika, I’m getting the doctor here. Not being able to see is not a good thing right now for you,” Sameer said, heading towards the door.

“No!”

“Why? You’re not feeling good. Just a minute ago, you were thrashing on the bed as if something bad was happening and you were fighting it, so don’t tell me what to and what not to do,” Sameer said.

“I’m dying Sameer. It’s time for you to face that. I can’t even talk right now with my head hurting. I-I am dying. Please let me die in peace,” Sabika said softly. The tears were still flowing from her eyes, and her face was crunched with pain. Sameer took her hand, and sat down on the bed.

“I’m sorry,” he said.

“There’s nothing to be sorry about. Ouch!” Sabika yelped in pain.

“What? Did I squeeze your hand too hard?” Sameer said, desperately taking his hand away from her, for he was afraid of causing her pain.

“No. It’s my head. It hurts like hell,” Sabika said, holding her head. Sameer moved closer to her, and massaged her head.

“I know this isn’t going to help the pain or anything, but it will help make calm down a bit” he said. Sure enough, in a few minutes, Sabika’s face became calm.

“Sabika? Can I tell you something?”

“Go ahead.” Sabika said, closing her eyes. My head hurts so much, but I shouldn't let him know.

“I love you. I don’t know if you do, but I will tell you this, I’ve loved you since the day we took that walk. I thought you were the best thing that ever happened to me. I love you,” Sameer whispered.

“I love you too,” Sabika tried to say more, but that was all that came out of her mouth. She felt happy that Sameer loved her, but was too weak to express her feelings anymore.

Sameer smiled and kissed her lips softly, yet tenderly. Sabika didn’t have the energy to kiss him back. When Sameer pulled away, Sabika smiled at him. It was the most she could do, but even her smiled showed her tremendous pain.

“I need to go to sleep,” Sabika said. Her voice was hoarse.
Sameer took her hand once again while she went to sleep. He watched her. She looked so innocent and beautiful when she was asleep. She was the most beautiful girl he had ever met. She had an astounding personality. She was…perfect. Oh, if only there was time, he would show her he really loved her.

Sameer kissed Sabika on the cheek, but as he was moving away, he felt something was wrong.

TO BE CONTINUED

Pulkit_gupta · 14th May 2005, 01:31 PM

Hi!

Read the first chapter... Going really good...Hope to be able to read the remaining ones 2 soon...U keep penning them down.... TC...

Mukhra · 15th May 2005, 11:06 PM

Chapter 15

Sabika wasn’t moving. Sameer moved closer to her, and put his face down next to hers so he could feel her breathing. He waited, but he could not feel any oxygen. Sameer checked Sabika’s pulse. Nothing. He couldn’t feel a pulse. He quickly looked over at the machines hooked up to Sabika. The heart and brain lines were flat, motionless.

“No! No, Sabika? Sabika wake up,” Sameer desperately shook her, trying to wake her up.

“You’re done with your sleep now. Wake up. I said WAKE UP!” Sameer yelled. He shook Sabika, even slapped her, but no, Sabika didn’t wake up, for she was dead. She had risen from this world.

“SABIKA? WAKE UP!” Sameer kept yelling, even when the doctor and nurses came in.

“Doctor! What…what’s wrong with my Sabika? How come she won’t wake up? Do something. She’s dying,” he said to the doctor, hoping for any way they could revive Sabika.

“I’m sorry. We can’t do anything now. I’m afraid she is dead,” Dr. Howard said solemnly. He put a hand on Sameer’s shoulder, and helped him sit down. Sameer sat for a minute, but then, ran back to where the nurses were unhooking the medical equipment. One nurse was about to put the linen sheet over Sabika’s head when Sameer slapped her hand away.

He looked at Sabika, and mumbled something. Right there, Rohit and Diya came in. Diya saw Sabika’s dead body and started crying out loud. She out her head on Rohit’s shoulders and started sobbing. Her cries were one similar to a banshee. Rohit stood there. Then he fell to the floor and started shaking. Two nurses quickly went over to him, but he pushed them away. Tears came into his eyes, and he let them run freely.

The medical attendants, in the meanwhile, had tried to give Sameer a tranquilizer to stop his yelling, but he ran out of the room. They searched for him in the hospital, but couldn’t find him.

Diya and Rohit were told to go back to campus. Diya got herself together, and helped Rohit into her car. He stumbled on each step until he finally sat down in the passenger seat of the car. Diya drove the car in silence, for there was no point to talk. She remembered her last conversation with Sabika, and started to cry. She hurriedly wiped the tears away, and tried to concentrate on her driving.

Rohit had looked out the car window the whole time. His face couldn’t be seen by Diya, but it was obvious he was crying. He tried to stifle his sobs, but it didn’t work. As soon as Diya parked her car at the university campus, Rohit opened the door to the car and ran out. Diya followed him, because she knew it wasn’t safe to leave him alone at the moment.

Rohit went to Sabika’s, or rather, now only Diya’s dormitory. He opened the door and went to Sabika’s closet yet once again. This time, he took out the red shirt he had given Sabika for her birthday. He held it to his face, and breathed in the scent, trying to find remains of Sabika.

Diya took Rohit’s hand and helped him sit onto one of the beds. Rohit still clutched the red shirt.

“Are you okay? I know how you feel, but you have to get a hold of yourself,” Diya soothed him.

“Get a hold of myself? My best friend, no wait, my one and only love just died, and you want me to get a hold of myself? I-I just lost the most important person in this world, and you want me to calm down?” Rohit said, not looking at Diya.

“Look! Sabika was my best friend too. I know how you feel. It’s pretty hard for me to control myself too. If you don’t get in control, I’m afraid I will probably lose it too,” Diya said, close to tears.

“Sorry. I’m trying to calm down, but it’s not working. The three of us used to have great times before. Why couldn’t we just stay like that? Why couldn’t we go back in time and keep having fun? Diya, can you tell me why?” Rohit asked, with a look of pure innocence on his face.

“I wish I knew. If I did, I’d tell you immediately. It’s just that, there are so many things in life that we can’t understand. Maybe that’s what life is, always surprising us with happiness and sadness. We can never prepare for anything…something will happen eventually that will catch us completely off guard,” Diya said, her arms around Rohit.

“Thanks. I’ll remember that,” Rohit quietly said.

“You’re always welcome. After all, what are friends for? Now come on. Let’s look for Sameer. I don’t think we should leave him alone right now either,” Diya said. She helped Rohit get up, and the two of them walked out of the room, the red shirt still in Rohit’s hand. The two of them, not the three, like it had been before.

TO BE CONTINUED

Rohin · 15th May 2005, 11:47 PM

Good keep it up.....

Waiting for more...

dard_thesorrow · 15th May 2005, 11:48 PM

just publish this
nice work warda
keep going

Pulkit_gupta · 17th May 2005, 10:45 AM

Hi!

I have read 8 Chapters of this beautiful story... Its really flowing beautifully... Will definitely catch up with the last station in a bit of time...Keep it Up...Its really good!!

friendnidhi · 17th May 2005, 09:50 PM

Hi Mukhra Ji,

Pls continue...wonderful story....

Take Care

Regards Nidhi

Pulkit_gupta · 18th May 2005, 10:09 AM

Hi Wrada!

I finally read all the chapters posted till date.. And i must say its a fabulous effort....I cud feel the intensity, the Pain, the Outflow of emotions... Seriously.. it was as if evrything was happening in front of me.. and I was a part of it..... Accept my praises.....

This really catches one's nerves...Toooooo Painful...Lighten it a bit in coming chaptyers plzzzzzzz......

Do keep penning them down.. I'll be wiating!!

Mukhra · 19th May 2005, 12:59 AM

Chapter 16

Rohit and Diya walked to Rohit’s room. They opened the door to find Sameer sitting on his bed, staring up at the ceiling. Diya went over to him, while Rohit hung back a little, until he finally decided to go and sit next to Sameer.

“Hi. Are you feeling ok?” Diya asked softly. Sameer didn’t respond. His eyes had stayed on the ceiling and he had not made any hints that he had heard Diya. Diya touched his shoulder, and Sameer jumped, as if shocked greatly.

“What do you want?” he asked bitterly.

“Sameer, we know how you feel. I know you loved her, but you have to come back to reality now. You still…”

“Loved her? No, I still do love her,” Sameer interrupted. Diya looked at him with sad eyes.

“Of course you do. In two days, we are going to Sabika’s funeral. You need to calm down a little so that you can bear it,” Diya said, looking at Rohit at the same time. Rohit realized she meant this for both him and Sameer.

“Funeral? What funeral? Sabika doesn’t need a funeral. She’s still here. She just went to take a test she had missed one day. She’ll be back in an hour or so. Whose funeral are we going to by the way?” Sameer asked, a long, lost look in his eyes.

“No, honey. You don’t understand. Sabika isn’t with us anymore.” Diya said. She was surprised, since Sameer had been there when Sabika died.

“Wait, what do you mean?” Sameer asked, as if hearing the news for the first time. Diya didn’t say anything, and instead looked at Rohit for help. She silently pleaded for him to help her.

“Listen buddy. Sabika is dead. Dead. You hear? She’s not with us anymore,” Rohit said, punching a wall.

“Shut up Rohit. You can never say anything positive,” Sameer said, still not believing Sabika had passed away.

“Ok. Get it through your head. Sabika is DEAD. She died today. You were there when she died,” Rohit said, his voice rising. He had tried to make it sound a bit harsh in order to make Sameer accept what he was saying.

“She’s dead. I was there,” Sameer started crying. It was as if something inside him had broken. He had been in a state of shock upon Sabika’s death, and when told she was dead, he had stepped out of the shock. Sameer started yelling again and again. The one thing he kept yelling was “dead.”

“Yes. She’s not here anymore,” Rohit said, but as he was saying this, he started to look a bit nauseous. Diya turned her face away and bit her tongue to stop herself from breaking out into tears too.

“I-I-I have to go back to my room. It’s pretty late, and we all need a good night’s rest,” Diya said. She didn’t want to go back to her room. She had shared the room with Sabika, and seeing Sabika’s possessions would make it even more unbearable than it already was. She left the room.

Rohit waited until Diya was gone. Then, he went to his closet and put the red shirt in the front, where it was visible from every angle. When he closed his closet door, he turned to where Sameer was sitting. Sameer had stopped yelling, but was still sobbing. Rohit sighed and went over to sit next to him.

“Come on. Let me get you something to eat. It will help. Plus, you’re probably hungry,” Rohit said to him. He patted Sameer’s shoulder in a comforting manner, and walked to the portable refrigerator. He took out a hamburger bun, and made a chicken patty sandwich, the only food he was good at making.

“Here. Eat this,” Rohit said, giving the food to Sameer. Sameer silently refused. Rohit started to get impatient.

“All right! Don’t eat it then. Be a stubborn person if you want to, but I will tell you this, Sabika wouldn’t have wanted you to go this long without food,” Rohit said. He put the plate with the food down next to Sameer, and stomped into the bathroom.

Once he closed the bathroom door, he turned the water faucet so that cold water came out full force. Rohit let the water fill up in the sink, and when it was halfway full, he lowered his head in it. The icy water gave him a headache, but he kept his head underwater until he couldn’t breathe. He took his head out of the water, and looked at himself in the mirror. His reflection showed a sad, water-dripping face.

This is what I look like right now, he thought, I look like someone sick, someone who has been sick in bed all day, throwing up. This is what her death did to me.

Rohit got frustrated every time he thought of Sabika’s death. He slammed his fist in the wall, which came away bleeding. Slowly, he rinsed his blood covered hand, and took gauze from the medicine cabinet. He wrapped the gauze around his hand, and sat down on the edge of the tub. Rohit took deep, slow breaths to help him calm down. The cold water had helped to clear up his head a little, but it had not helped him bear what had happened that day.

The memory of Sabika lying motionless on the hospital bed was still fresh, like a new wound. Her face had looked peaceful, but he had felt sick just seeing her like that. Rohit was used to the Sabika that made him laugh. He had been surprised when he had seen her dead. She hadn’t looked like the Sabika he knew, but one who was a corpse, a cadaver. Now, all he had left of her was her red shirt, and pictures. The pictures suddenly reminded him of something. He tore out of the bathroom, and went to his closet.

Rohit madly searched for his picture albums. He found them buried under piles of clothes, and breathed a sigh of relief. Rohit took the albums to his bed, and searched for what he was looking for. The picture was a bit hard to find, but he finally found it. The picture was one that was taken when he and Sabika had been in second grade. It had been a week or so since they had become friends. It showed him with his arm around Sabika. They both had goofy expressions on their faces, and had been sitting on a set of monkey bars. Rohit looked at the picture, took out a brand new frame, and framed the picture. He looked at the childhood picture a little more until he remembered Sameer.

Sameer had been in the same position for quite some time. One would think he had been glued to that one spot. Rohit could only see Sameer’s back. He knew Sameer must have been feeling lost, so he thought of something that would help to get him back to the “real” world.

“Hey, Sameer.”

TO BE CONTINUED

Pulkit_gupta · 20th May 2005, 01:42 PM

Hi!

Going Nicely... Keep on posting...!!

garima · 20th May 2005, 04:17 PM

Hi Sis,

finally maine saare chapters padh daale... bahut hi achha likh rahi ho aap.. lekin ek kaam karna Big B ki tarah bahut late nahi karna agala post jaldi se daalana.. ab to maine saare chapters padh bhi liye hai..

take care sis

Amanush... · 21st May 2005, 12:50 AM

Mukhra ji...

Hum ne aapki kahani ek hi saans main paDhi hai and
I assure you...It is just wonderful!

Waiting for the continuation...!

Thanks for sharing your talent with us!

Amanush...

Mukhra · 22nd May 2005, 01:31 AM

Chapter 17

“Hey. Sameer,” Rohit said. Sameer slowly turned around, looking as if he had just woken up.

“What is it?” Sameer asked slowly.

“Look at this picture,” Rohit said carefully. Sameer trudged over and sat down. He took the picture from Rohit’s hand and looked at it. After about a minute, a look of recognition came into his eyes.

“Is that Sabika?” he asked. Rohit nodded. Sameer looked closely at the picture, admiration shown clearly on his face. A little smile crept around the side of his mouth.

“She was beautiful, wasn’t she?” Sameer remarked. Rohit nodded again.

“Do you want to keep the picture? You can have it if it makes you feel better,” Rohit said, studying Sameer. Sameer nodded like a child who was eagerly waiting for his prize. Rohit gave the picture to Sameer, and then went to lie down on his bed. He dimmed the light to a very low, and went to sleep.

Sameer went back to his bed, and studied the picture for a while. Then, he went to sleep with the picture resting on his chest, rising and falling to the rhythm of Sameer’s steady breathing.

*~*~*

On the day of the funeral, Rohit skipped his classes so that he would have time to get ready and arrive at the funeral procession on time. He wore a white kurta pyjama, since white is what he wore to funerals. White was such a pure color, so innocent and close to God. It wasn’t stained with anything, and that was what was so innocent about it. When he was ready, Rohit turned around to find Sameer behind him.

“Hi. Are you ready?” Rohit asked. He could clearly see that Sameer wasn’t ready.

“Ready for what?” Sameer asked. Rohit sighed.

“Today is Sabika’s funeral. You have to be there too,” Rohit said. Sameer didn’t say anything, but instead looked down at the ground.

“I’m not going,” he said after a while.

“Why?” Rohit asked.

“I don’t think I’ll be able to bear it,” Sameer said.

“Mr. Sameer. For your information, you’re not the only one that loves her,” Rohit said, his voice rising slightly.

“What are you talking about?” Sameer asked.

“I love her too. You don’t see me sitting at home. I’m going to be closer to her,” Rohit said.

“Yes well, I’m still not going,” Sameer said firmly.

“Oh, you will come sooner or later,” Rohit said, and walked out the door. Sameer stayed in the dark room, lost in his own thoughts and feelings.

Rohit walked to Diya’s dormitory and knocked on the door. Diya opened the door. She was dressed in a plain white salwar kameez.

“Are you ready?” Rohit said, with a hint of impatience in his voice.

“Yes, but what’s wrong?” Diya asked as she followed Rohit down to his car.

“Nothing. It’s nothing,” Rohit replied. Diya left it at that. She knew it was better to talk to him later when he had calmed down. They got in the car, and Rohit started the car. He drove carefully in the direction of the mosque.

“Where’s Sameer? Is he going to come alone?” Diya asked.

“He’s in our room, moping,” Rohit said. Diya opened her mouth to say something, but then closed it. Rohit drove the rest of the way in silence. When he got to the mosque, he stopped the car, and got out. Diya stayed behind a little so that she could fix her scarf. She covered her head with the scarf, and got out of the car.

Rohit and Diya went into the mosque, where a crowd of mourning people greeted them. They found Sabika’s parents and hurried over to them. Rohit went to the men’s section, and Diya, to the women’s. Rohit went and sat next to Sabika’s father.

“Hi, Uncle. I’m sorry for what has happened. She was my best friend. I know how you must feel right now,” Rohit had tried to say something soothing, but he thought he had failed to do so. Sabika’s father slowly looked at him with wet eyes.

“Thank you, son. Thank you for being here today to support me,” he said, putting a hand on Rohit’s shoulder. Rohit looked away and wiped the tears from his own eyes. He looked over to see Diya talking to Sabika’s mother.

“Auntie, how are you?” Diya asked softly. Sabika’s mother looked at her with tear-filled, blood-red eyes.

“Diya, is that you?” she asked. Diya nodded. Sabika’s mother fell onto Diya’s shoulders and started crying. Diya soothed her, all the while crying.

After a few minutes, Sabika’s body, wrapped in a shroud, was put onto a table-like bed. It wasn’t really a bed. It was more like a platform with legs at the bottom. When Sabika’s body was put on the platform, her mother screamed. She trashed and yelled, trying desperately to escape from Diya’s strong arms and rush to her daughter. As much as she tried, she would never be able to go to her daughter anymore. Her precious daughter was going to be taken away from her. She had to do something about it, but what?

Sabika’s father, two brothers, and Rohit walked to the platform. They would transport Sabika’s body to its grave because they were the men closest to her. Sameer would have been one of them, if he had come. The four men slowly raised the platform to their shoulders. They walked to the cemetery, the other mourners close behind them. The women, however, had to stay behind.

Rohit and the other three men came upon Sabika’s newly dug grave and slowly lowered the platform into the ground. Then an Imam recited prayers, and the men stood behind him. After the prayers, Sabika’s coffin was covered with wooden tiles. The men took handfuls of sand and put them in the grave, finally covering the grave. A monument was placed next to the grave, showing that Sabika had died. The men slowly walked back seventy steps and then prayed again. This was the whole ritual of burying a person. Then, they went back to the mosque.

After the prayers had been read, Rohit had looked around for Sameer, but hadn’t found him. Coward, he had thought. Rohit looked around for Diya, and when he found her, he went over to her. Diya’s face was streaked with tears, and her clothes were wet at the shoulders, upon many women had cried. She looked exhausted.

“Have you buried her?” she asked. Rohit nodded. Diya sighed and walked to Rohit’s car.

“I want to go home. I can’t stay here any longer. I will break down if I do,” Diya pleaded. Rohit unlocked the car, and they got inside.

To be continued…

garima · 23rd May 2005, 11:33 AM

Hi ,

very nice flow... bahut achhi lagi ye chapter.. bhi.. waiting for more..

Thanks
Garima

Pulkit_gupta · 23rd May 2005, 05:50 PM

Hi!

U r writing very well...Plz do keep it up!!

friendnidhi · 23rd May 2005, 10:00 PM

Hi Mukhra Ji,
tHe story is going on very well pls continue..

Regards Nidhi

Rohin · 23rd May 2005, 10:07 PM

Hi Sister,

Keep it up dear....

Thanks
Rohin

Mukhra · 26th May 2005, 02:47 AM

Chapter 18

Rohit and Diya went back to the university campus. Rohit helped Diya to her room, and then to her bed. Diya looked sick, and he didn’t want her health to get worse. He got her water and she reluctantly drank it. After a few sips, Diya pushed the glass away.

“Are you okay?” Rohit asked, concerned. He looked at Diya anxiously.

“Yes, I’m ok. Don’t worry,” Diya said, smiling as something.

“What are you smiling at?” Rohit asked. He couldn’t figure out what there was to laugh about.

“You were…oh nothing,” Diya said. She smiled widely, and then got comfortable on her bed.

“I think you should go see how Sameer is doing. I’m surprised he wasn’t at the funeral today,” Diya said, pointing to the door. Rohit shook his head, and walked out the door, smiling. Diya had always been more concerned about others than she was of herself. It was a typical thing for her to do.

Rohit walked down to his room, getting himself ready for the questions Sameer would ask. He could just picture Sameer asking about how the funeral went and if Rohit had seen Sabika or not. Rohit got to his room, and entered.

Sameer was sitting against his bed, holding the picture of Sabika. He was just staring at it, as if he was trying to absorb what she looked like so that he would never forget her. Rohit shut the door behind him, and took off his shoes.

He purposely walked past Sameer so that he would notice. Sameer looked up at him, and then went back to studying the picture as if Rohit wasn’t there. Rohit waited patiently. He just needs time to get together what he wants to say and ask, Rohit thought. He walked to the mini-fridge and took out a bottle of Coca-cola. However, he didn’t drink it because the Coke had been Sabika’s favorite drink. She would drink it every day, but never tired of it. Rohit smiled at the small memory. The soda brought another memory to his head.

A few years back, Rohit, Diya, and Sabika had gone on a whale watch in Boston. When the boat was going full speed into the ocean, Rohit had persuaded Sabika and Diya to come onto the front of the boat, nearest to the water. The wind had been hard and cold, but the fun part was when the boat kept bouncing up and down so that one felt like he was on an amusement park ride. After about ten minutes, Sabika went inside. She came back a few minutes later with a cup of ice-cold Coke. The cup had a cover on it, but the harsh wind blew it away as soon as Sabika went back outside. The soda was also spilling a little. Sabika, in a joking manner, brought the soda nearer to Rohit and Diya, who had moved away from her because they didn’t want the soda to spill on them. Sabika laughed at them, and just when she was getting a sip of the drink, the boat bounced so that the soda spilled over her face, and clothes. Rohit and Diya had laughed hysterically for hours. Sabika had just been standing in front of them, wet with soda. She had looked beautiful even then, Rohit smiled at the thought.

He turned his attention back to Sameer, who still hadn’t spoken. Rohit waited, but after a while, he became impatient.

“Aren’t you going to ask me anything?” Rohit asked Sameer. Sameer turned to look at him.

“Ask you about what?” Sameer asked.

“Aren’t you going to ask me about the funeral?” Rohit asked impatiently.

“No,” Sameer said sullenly. That’s it. Just one word. Rohit had a look of astonishment on his face. He had been expecting more than just that. He had been expecting an outburst of questions, not just one simple word. Some things could be surprising.

“I’ll be right back,” Rohit said as he bolted out the door. Rohit ran to a park near campus. He didn’t stop running until he was at an abandoned, but peaceful part of the park. The birds were chirping gently, and the wind was blowing just slightly. Strong rays of sunlight peeked through the trees, making everything look like a beautiful landscape.

Rohit stood and looked up into the sky with questions in his eyes.

“So this is why you left? You left so I would be stuck dealing with a stubborn Sameer. He doesn’t even act like he cares you died. He’s the man you fell in love with? Meri jaan, I was always there for you, but instead, over me, you chose a crazy, stubborn fool who does not care whatsoever about you. Sabika, he has changed, and that change might not be good for him physically and mentally. What do you want Diya and me to do?” Rohit said to the sky. He pondered the blue skies for more question, but when he didn’t get any response, he slowly walked back to campus, with a black mood.

*~*~*

Sameer stared at Sabika’s picture. He had heard Rohit go out the door again, but he had not cared enough to ask where he was going. He looked at Sabika.

“Can I?” Sameer asked the picture. After what seemed to be an hour, he nodded, and smiled for the first time in many days.

To be continued...

friendnidhi · 26th May 2005, 08:14 AM

Hi Mukhra Ji,
Waiting eagerly for the other parts to be posted

Regards Nidhi