Tag: Rohan

Destined (Part 17)

Posted Mish5 CommentsPosted in English, Inspired, Rupali-Paritosh

“I feel like a VIP,” Chand smiled on seeing Paritosh.

“That’s a good feeling, but can I ask why?” Partitosh also quipped back on seeing Chand in a good mood.

“The entire Pediatrics department seems to be at my beck and call. Attending to me one after another.”

“I am not the entire Pediatrics department.”

“Of course. So, you send that young protegee of yours to me, when you are not around.”

“Excuse me?”

“Dr. Banerjee. Rupali, I guess.”

“Rupali was here?”

“Poor girl. She is so besotted with you, she would do anything you asked her to.”

“Anything I ask her to? Besotted with me? What are you talking about Chand? Are you out of your mind? I never asked her to come here. Why would I?”

That made Chand’s smile grow wider, “You didn’t tell her to? And still she spends so much time here…”

“Rupali has been spending time with you? Why would she?”

“I must be her favourite patient, Mr. thick-head.”

A smile formed on Paritosh’ lips, on hearing the long-forgotten “Mr. thick-head” from Chand.

“Some things haven’t changed Chand. And yet how much has changed!” he said somberly.

“Yes,” her smiled became sad, “So much has changed. But why are you stuck Paritosh? Why did you never move on?”

“This is not the time to talk about me,” he avoided her and changed the topic, “You tell me, how are you feeling? I am eager to see you discharged, healthy!”

She sighed, “I am not too eager to leave. It feels safer than home.”

“Chand,” Paritosh spoke with some alarm, “Don’t think like that. Your father really repents not listening to your earlier. He is taking care of your daughters. And he won’t let you go back to that hell again.”

“Of course. He is not going to do that… Now…” her hands went to her tummy for a moment. Paritosh realized that she was thinking about the baby she had lost.

“You have two daughters to take care of, Chand. You can’t afford to be sad and depressed like this. You understand that, don’t you?”

She nodded and smiled. She spoke after a few moments of silence, “If possible, forgive me Paritosh. And if you have, move on. Please…”

“I never wished you any ill Chand,” Paritosh felt compelled to say that.

“Of course. I know,” she replied, “If you had, I wouldn’t be alive. Your ill-will would have been too powerful. It is your good-will that I and my daughters are alive today.”

“Just take care of yourself, and don’t fret over the bygones.”

She nodded and smiled.

—

After finishing his work, Paritosh went out to look for Rupali. He found her on the terrace.

“Not done for the day yet?”

“Another hour to go. We came in the same shift,” she smiled and stopped rubbing her eyes. She was clearly sleepy and had a headache.

“There is a simple secret to good health, you know.”

“What?”

“That you do things at the right time. For example, you sleep when you should sleep.”

“Right,” she sighed and mumbled.

“And that is true not only of one day, but of life in general.”

“And what does that mean?”

“For everything in life, there is a right time… The moment – you know. There is a moment, for example, when two people are on the same wavelength. They understand each other and they can come together. And after coming together, from then on, they can grow together. But if that moment is gone, and they don’t come together, then they grow separately, they grow differently, and they grow apart. Do you understand what I am saying?”

Rupali gulped hard. She felt her goosebumps. He must be referring to him and Chand. But why was he telling that to her? Why bother clarifying to her that they can not come together any longer?

“Rupali?”

“I think I do,” she managed to speak, “But I didn’t intend to hurt you… What I said earlier…”

“Don’t be an idiot,” Paritosh rebuffed her affectionately, “You can not hurt a fly Rupali Banerjee. I am tougher than that.” He was smiling by now and Rupali could not help but smile with him.

“If you are free,” Paritosh spoke again, “Let me make up for the tea we missed yesterday and treat you to one in the canteen. It will help with your sleepiness as well.”

“Sure,” she nodded. She could definitely do with some tea. But something about this exchange was making her think hard.

—

“Kakima!” Rupali was surprised to see Damyanti at her home when she reached back that evening.

“How are you, Rupa?”

“I am fine…” And against her better judgment tears came to her eyes.

“Oh my God! What happened, my child? Why are you…”

“I thought… you would never come…” Whatever be her failings, this woman has been the mother to her all these years. On seeing her, suddenly she felt the need to have a mother’s shoulder to cry on.

“Oh God! I am so sorry, Rupa… I should have come earlier. I was just so unsure…”

They hugged and Rupali cried softly.

“That’s enough. That’s enough, Rupa… Stop crying now. Come on… Radha. Bring some water for Rupa,” she hollared to the maid and took Rupali to her bedroom.

“Is something wrong, Rupa?” she asked after Rupali had calmed down.

“No Kakima. I just… got emotional to see you…”

“I should have come earlier. I am so sorry, Rupa…”

“Please don’t embarrass me, Kakima…”

“You could also have told me, Rupa, if you wanted to see me…”

“I know…”

“Anyway. Radha tells me that Dr. Khanna comes here often. He has been taking good care of you, right?”

“He is a good man, Kakima,” Rupali replied in a controlled voice, unsure about where this was going. There was already too much going on in her head about Paritosh, which she was yet to sort out.

“Of course!”

“Kakima…”

“Yes?”

“You don’t hold him responsible for what happened, do you? Because he is not. This house was just incidental. Sooner or later…”

“I know. I know Rupali,” Damyanti’s sadness and disappointment were not hidden, but she did put up a brave and rational face. “And trust me,” she added slowly, “Despite what I had hoped about your and… Rohan in past, you would always have my blessings for the right person in your life…”

“I… am not… sure… what you mean, Kakima…” Rupali stuttered.

“Your Kaku felt so… And even Radha tells me that you and Dr. Khanna…. are together?”

“What?” Rupali nearly jumped out of the bed, “What are you… No Kakima. That… That is not happening… That can not happen…”

“I thought so… I told both of them… It doesn’t make sense… He is too… I mean you are much younger than him and…”

“Kakima. That is not the point. It is not about him at all.”

“Then?”

“It’s… It’s me Kakima. I’m… How do I explain it… I am a damaged person Kakima, a damaged woman… I cannot… be with anyone. And least of all someone as nice as Dr. Khanna…” she almost choked on her words towards the end, “And Kakima. Please, don’t ever mention this to him. Being the kind of person he is, he might just agree to you for my sake. That won’t be right….”

Damyanti spoke after few moments of silence, “You should see a psychiatrist, Rupa.”

Rupali was startled, “Why are you… Did Dr. Khanna tell you to…”

Damyanti sighed, “I had called him up before coming.”

“Why?”

“Wanted to ask how you were doing and what I should be doing…”

Rupali sighed! So, Dr. Khanna was her official guardian now!

“You don’t need to ask anyone about me, Kakima…”

“I shouldn’t have to… But I have failed Rupa. And I want to be extra cautious now…”

Rupali buried her head in her hands feeling helpless, “Everybody is in such mess because of me…”

“No. No Rupa. Please don’t talk like this. You have been very brave. You shouldn’t give up in your life and future like this. Take time. You are not running out of it.”

Rupali wondered if those were her words, or Dr. Khanna’s. He was capable of saying things like those. But outwardly she just smiled and changed the topic, “Shall I get you some tea, Kakima?”

“Sure. Tea would be good.”

—

To be continued

Destined (Part 16)

Posted Mish12 CommentsPosted in English, Inspired, Rupali-Paritosh

“Do you know the name of the girls?” Rupali asked Paritosh as she took another hungry bite of the tasty cheese omelette at Paritosh’ house in the morning.

“I don’t. I actually don’t know anything about her, except the family she was married in to. That was difficult to not know,” Paritosh replied looking kind of lost.

“Are you still thinking about… about our conversation yesterday and then this…”

“No. No – I am over that now. I was just shocked then. The coincidence was too much…”

“Of course,” she mumbled.

“Why are you so worried about it… my irrationality?”

“You always do the right and the rational thing… I draw strength and hope from that… If you go weak there, I lose all hopes…” she replied not meeting his eyes.

“Rupali!” Her dependence on him, or his rationality was a news to him.

“I… I am sorry,” she glanced up with a nervous smile, “I am probably freaking you out. Don’t read too much into what I said.”

“We can read only written words, not spoken ones.”

“Excuse me?”

He chuckled, making her realize that he was joking.

“You got me,” she grinned foolishly.

“But Rupali…” he turned serious again.

“What?” she looked alarmed.

“Nothing. Are you done? I will drop you home. You would need rest after a tiring day.”

She had vaguely hoped that he would ask her to lie down in one of the rooms in his house only. But he was probably trying not to make her uncomfortable, she reasoned.

—

The girls recovered physically faster than their mother. But they were traumatized. The younger one was clearly in too much shock and she didn’t speak at all. Older one was also mostly silent, occasionally asking only about her Mummy, her nerves obviously frayed. Even the presence of their grand father did not help much.

Rupali took them to their mother when she did finally gain consciousness. Paritosh was also there.

“The baby died, Mummy?” The older girl asked her mother, her question wrenching everyone’s heart. Chand started crying on hearing the question and on Paritosh’ indication Rupali hurled the girls out. Seeing their mother cry couldn’t be good for their morales.

When Rupali came back to the room after settling the children in the ward, Paritosh was hugging Chand trying to console her. She went back without making her presence felt.

The girls were discharged a couple of days later. Paritosh called Rajesh Malhotra in his office, “Uncle. Although the psychiatrists at the hospital have tried talking to the girls, here is the number of Dr. Biswas. He is the best child and adolescent psychiatrist in Kolkata. I think you should take them to him.”

“Thank you, Paritosh. I don’t know if I should thank you… or apologize…”

“Please. None. And don’t bother about me. Chand and her daughters need love and care right now…”

The old man nodded.

“And…”

“Yes?”

“I know you consider it a family matter, but please don’t send them back there, to that family. Ideally they should be in the jail…”

“I understand. I have made more than my share of mistakes and put these innocent children at risk. Not any more.”

Paritosh nodded and he noticed Rupali standing nearby as Rajesh Malhotra left. He looked uncomfortable, but Rupali ignored it at first.

“That was a sound advice,” she said with a smile.

Paritosh just nodded and asked, “You had some work?”

“Erm… No,” she was caught unawares by the brisk question, “I just… came to check up on you.”

“I am fine, Rupali. Just another day. You should go back to work.”

And now she could not shrug it away. He had definitely been avoiding her. Since their breakfast date as he had called it. What was it?

But she did not know what and how to ask. So, she just left. She did not see Paritosh looking on longingly after her.

—

“You look preoccupied,” Rupali asked Paritosh after they finished the weekly check up at the orphanage. He hadn’t spoken much to her during their visit. He hadn’t spoken much to her at all for last few days. Usually nothing beyond the formalities.

“Umm… Yes… Mr. Malhotra wanted to meet me.”

“You are going there now?”

“Yeah.”

She wondered if he would drop her as usual.

“Where do they stay?”

“Ballygunge.”

That was in yet another direction, not in the way of either Rupali’s or Paritosh’ home.

“All the best then,” she said, “I will take a taxi.”

Paritosh looked like he would object, but he withdrew before saying anything.

“I am sorry,” he mumbled.

“Sorry? I will be fine,” she assured him while trying to hide her own disappointment.

Rupali felt terribly lonely at home that evening. Paritosh dropping her and staying for some tea was something she had started looking forward to. She repeatedly picked up her phone feeling compelled to call him, ask him about… himself, Chand, Mr. Malhotra… But she didn’t. It would be inappropriate.

—

She went to his office next morning for some work.

“Rupali,” he called her after she was finished and was leaving.

“Yes Sir?” Her heart skipped a beat, and she hoped that her reaction was not obvious to him.

“Have you considered seeing a psychiatrist?”

“Wh… Why do you ask?” she was taken aback. It was completely unexpected for her.

“You haven’t slept last night. It is obvious from how you look. You need to sort it out…”

Rupali stayed silent for a while. What could she tell him? That it was because he wasn’t talking to her?

“Thanks for looking out,” she replied finally, “I will manage.” She turned on her heels and walked out before he could say anything else.

—

Paritosh was surprised to see Rupali near Chand’s room later in the day. He stayed silent for a while and observed her watching Chand from outside. It was odd.

“Rupali?” he finally called her.

She was startled, “Dr. Khanna. Good…” she glanced at the wall clock, “Good afternoon, Sir.”

“Good afternoon. What are you doing here?”

“I was just passing by. I thought I would check on her.”

He nodded, and after a moment’s hesitation, spoke, “Rupali. I am sorry. I might have hurt you inadvertently this morning. By asking you to…”

“Please. Don’t apologize. You meant well. And you are probably right too, like always. It’s just that I… Anyway. I think you should give yourself a break from worrying about me now.”

“Why so?” he asked half amused, half curious at her odd remark.

“Why so?” she appeared amused now, “Some important people are back in your life. And they need your time and attention. That’s why. I will see you later. Bye.”

Paritosh frowned after her. What the hell did she mean?

—

To be continued

Destined (Part 15)

Posted Mish2 CommentsPosted in English, Inspired, Rupali-Paritosh

“Sir, there is an emergency. Two girls have been brought in. Can you please come in quickly…” Rupali’s call came hardly ten minutes after she had left for her round.

“Where? In the ward or emergency room?”

“They brought the girls in the ward. There is a woman in ER, presumably their mother.”

“I will be right there.”

Paritosh appeared surprised to see the girls at first and frowned. But he recovered and gave instructions for injecting IV.

“Such severe malnutrition…” Paritosh wondered aloud, “I haven’t seen that even in street children. Even they manage to eat something…”

“Just spoke to the nurse in ER, Dr. Khanna. She said the same thing about the mother. Looks like she hasn’t eaten in days. And to top that she is pregnant.”

“Oh?”

“And Sir…”

“Yeah?”

“They don’t look poor. Their clothes…” she pointed towards the girls, “And those ear-rings are almost certainly gold…”

“You suspect foul play?” Paritosh looked at her curiously.

She nodded.

There was nothing to be done for the girls now except to keep them under observation. “Let’s go and see the mother,” he told Rupali, “Police might need to be informed.”

—

“Who brought them in?” Paritosh asked the nurse on duty in ER before getting into the room.

“Will have to check the paper work for the name. But someone saw them on the roadside and called the ambulance.”

“Okay. Can I see her?”

“Sure Doctor. If you want to talk to Dr. Naidu, he is in the admin office filing paperwork.”

“Will do. Thanks.” Paritosh and Rupali went into the room.

“Oh my God!” Paritosh stopped in his tracks and looked horrified.

“What happened, Sir?” Rupali was taken aback by his reaction.

“Those girls looked so familiar… No wonder… This is…”

“You know her?”

Paritosh sat down on a chair nearby and sighed loudly, “I just told you about her… This is Chand.”

“Oh!” What a coincidence!

“And no… She is not poor,” Paritosh continued talking, “She was married in a a very well-to-do business family in Howrah.”

Her clothes and jewelry definitely confirmed that!

Rupali saw the agony on Paritosh’ face as he stared at the patient. She went forward and put her hands on his shoulder. He was surprised, but did not move.

“Dr. Khanna. Are you okay?”

“Yes. Of course,” he came out of his thoughts and looked at her, “I am okay. Don’t worry. Let’s go back to the girls…”

“You can stay here, if you want. I will be in the ward. I will let you know, if something changes.”

“Okay… Thanks Rupali… I will stay… And…”

“Yeah?”

“I think I need to call her family. I don’t have the number.”

“Some common friend would have it?”

“Her father is Rajesh Malhotra…”

“Of Malhotra and Sons?” Rupali asked, startled. It was a well-known business family in the city.

“Yes.”

“I will start by calling their office, then. The number should be on the website.”

“Yeah. That sounds like a good idea. Please do.”

For the first time, Rupali noticed, Paritosh looked like he was not in control of the situation and was grateful for help and support.

“Don’t worry Dr. Khanna. They are in good hands now,” she said assuringly.

He nodded with a faint smile.

—

Paritosh came to the ward with an elderly man accompanying him. He was dressed in a starched white Kurta-Paijama and was being graceful with a lot of efforts. Unchecked, he would have burst out in tears.

“Mr. Rajesh Malhotra,” Paritosh introduced them to each other, “This is Dr. Ruapli Banerjee. She called you…”

“Hello Sir,” Rupali mumbled to Rajesh Malhotra. “Thank you,” he nodded and mumbled in acknowledgment and sat down beside the younger girl on the bed. He gently ran his hand over her hand.

“How are they?” he looked expectantly at Rupali and asked.

“Their vitals are improving. We have to observe until morning.”

He nodded looking sad.

“Uncle,” Paritosh addressed his softly, “You don’t look too well yourself. You can go home and come in the morning. They are in good hands now.”

“I’d like to stay here,” the old man said desperately, “If it isn’t against hospital’s rules.”

Paritosh sighed and nodded, “Sister Teresa can escort you if you want to go to Chand’s room. I will be in my office.” He looked at the nurse and nodded at her to indicate that she should do what he promised to Rajesh Malhotra. She nodded back.

Then he looked at Rupali and she followed him.

—

“What happened?” Rupali asked as soon as they entered his office.

Paritosh indicated her to sit. It would be a long story.

She was at her in-laws place. Pregnant with her third child. Two daughters were already too much for her family. They went for gender determination, even though it was illegal. And the the unborn baby was a girl too. They wanted her to abort. She refused. She had called her father for help. But he told her to deal with her family matters herself. He doesn’t know anything more. But…

“They starved her and her daughters to force abortion?” Rupali completed his thoughts.

“Seems likely. She must have run away. But could not make it all the way to her father’s house due to weakness.”

“How is the baby?” Rupali asked anxiously.

“Things don’t look good. Dr. Nanda is with them,” he replied referring to the gynecologist on duty.

“You don’t want to be there?”

“I was not helping there.” He was too disturbed!

Rupali had barely nodded in response when his mobile rang. He turned pale as he heard the person on phone.

“The baby died,” he said after disconnecting the call.

“Oh! And that would create complications for her too…”

Paritosh nodded.

“Dr. Khanna. You are…”

“I never thought ill of her Rupali. Even when I was angry and hurt… I never did…”

“Of course, you didn’t. Why would you… Oh my God!” The realization dawned on her about what was bothering him so much apart from sudden encounter with Chand under such circumstances. “Please Sir,” she went near him and put her hands on his shoulder, “It has got nothing to do with you. It was just a coincidence that we were talking about her today…”

He shook his head. She continued, “No. Listen to me please. This is just not right. I was the one listening to you, right? I can judge it. There was no ill-will whatsoever in you.”

“I hope so, Rupali…”

“Please. Dr. Khanna. I can’t see you like this. You can’t be like this. Not after all the wise things you know and say…”

He looked at her and frowned as he tried to understand what she meant. Then a small smile spread on his lips, “All the wise things, eh?”

“Whatever,” she was suddenly embarrassed at her words, “You are a doctor. You are supposed to be rational about things.”

“Of course,” his smile was broader now. Somehow her agitated outburst had pulled Paritosh out of the guilt-pit the evening’s incidents had thrown him into.

“If you want to go home, you can go Dr. Khanna,” Rupali offered helpfully, “I am here and the girls only need observation.”

“No. I intend to keep our breakfast date,” he grinned much to Rupali’s surprise and relief, “We will leave together in the morning.”

“Okay,” she smiled and left.

—

To be continued

Destined (Part 14)

Posted Mish11 CommentsPosted in English, Inspired, Rupali-Paritosh

“I will take a taxi,” Rupali told Paritosh after they finished check ups at the orphanage.

“Why, I will drop you.”

“It’s no longer on your way…”

“You can invite me for a cup of tea…”

Rupali had to smile at that, “Of course.”

The decrepit sofa was absent from the hall, and there were a few plastic chairs around.

“I see that you have already started redecorating the place,” Paritosh said as a way of starting the conversation.

“There isn’t much decoration here,” Rupali gave an embarrassed grin, “Just making the place functional. Although, I am fully aware how inappropriate plastic furniture is for a house like this.”

“It’s yours. That is all that matters.”

Radha’s excitement at seeing a visitor was almost embarrassing for Rupali. She brought so much snacks with tea that not only Paritosh, even Rupali stared at it wide-eyed.

“Well,” Rupali spoke to dissolve the awkwardness, “I wouldn’t have known what all I should get. Thank God, Radha is here.”

“And I didn’t know what I was getting in to when I got myself invited for tea,” Paritosh also helped.

They smiled. Radha, however, offered an explanation, “Nobody ever comes here. I am so happy to see Doctor Babu today.” And it made the situation awkward again. Their eyes met and Rupali averted hers.

“Moitras never came to meet you?”

“Kaku is in Darjeeling with Rohan. Kakima probably feels very guilty, and possibly angry. They have called, of course.”

“Aren’t you lonely?”

“Have always been. Being alone has nothing to do with being lonely. You can be lonely even in a huge crowd.”

Paritosh smiled.

“And Dr. Khanna,” Rupali added somberly, “They are not to be blamed for it. They have done as much as they could do for me…”

“Rupali,” Paritosh intervened, mild irritation evident in his tone, “Why do you always assume that I am up in arms against them? I appreciate them as much as you do Rupali. For what they have done for you. And even if I think they could have been careful about Rohan, I don’t blame them for what he is. And I understand how much respect and gratitude you feel towards them. You don’t need to defend them before me.”

“I.. I am…” Rupali was embarrassed.

“Rupali. The only time I disagree with you is when you start holding yourself responsible. Blaming Rohan’s parents might be wrong, but blaming you is even more wrong than that. And that’s it. That’s all I would ever try to convince you of.”

“I am sorry. Please don’t be mad at me,” Rupali said in a small voice.

“Come on, Rupali. I am not mad at you.”

“I… I didn’t realize that I had started sounding like that. I know that you understand. And probably that’s the reason fate has pushed you in between all this. It wanted me to have some support. I am really sorry.”

“You are one difficult woman Rupali. Here I was trying to rid you of one guilt. And you have managed to start feeling another one. For me, this time. Will you stop this?”

Rupali smiled and threw her hands up in the air in resignation.

“That’s better,” Paritosh said with a patronizing smile.

—

“Rupali. So, you got the night duty tonight? Couldn’t go for Dr. Shekhar’s wedding, eh?” Paritosh found Rupali in the common room at night. Most of the doctors were going to attend their colleague’s wedding. So, Paritosh had decided to stay on for the night.

“I volunteered,” Rupali smiled in reply.

“Hmm… And I have noticed that you are volunteering a lot of extra duties these days.”

She just shrugged and continued smiling.

“Is that how you are coping with what happened? Because you aren’t talking much to me. Are you talking to anyone at all?” he asked and was taken by surprise when she giggled at his question.

“That sounds like a boss of mine I know.”

“Excuse me?”

“Being a workaholic to deal with things… loneliness, let’s say. That’s you Dr. Khanna?”

“And not you?”

“I am learning from the best.”

“In that case you are learning the wrong things.”

“Is it? Why do you practice wrong things then?”

Paritosh sighed, “You are difficult.”

“That’s not fair. You brought up the topic. So… Can I ask you something? About you?”

Paritosh looked quizzical, “Shoot.”

“If you don’t want to answer, you can just say so… Please don’t be offended if…”

“Ask the question Rupali. Let me hear it before I decide what do I want to do with it.”

“Why this loneliness?”

“We don’t decide to be lonely, Rupali. Life throws it at us.”

“In that case, a more specific question. Why didn’t you ever get married? That seems to be the ultimate cure for people’s loneliness.”

“Is it?”

“That’s what people say.”

“Hmm…”

“Hmm?”

“What should I tell you?”

“Whatever is the truth… To the extent you are comfortable in sharing it…”

“We have both been orphans, Rupali. But the difference is that… you know where you come from. I don’t…”

“That is… likely to be painful… at least at times… But what does it have to do with…”

“Why do you think Daar ji was so mad at your mother?”

“Because she married against his wishes? Outside the community?”

He nodded, “So, in this society where does someone with no idea whatsoever about his family stand? Nowhere!”

“Surely, not everyone is like Daar ji. And even he changed, didn’t he? Otherwise he would never have adopted you.”

“Right. Daar ji changed… But unfortunately not her father…”

“Whose?”

“Chand. She was the daughter of one of Daar ji’s friends.”

“Oh!”

“We were… well… I thought we were in love. I had heard Daar ji beg him for my… our happiness. But he was adamant. He couldn’t marry his daughter off to someone with a questionable blood line.”

“And she?”

“She wasn’t as headstrong as your mother,” Paritosh smiled sadly.

“I… I am sorry.”

“Thinking rationally, it really is not a big deal, Rupali. Today one can not get under my skin with such things… But we are much more insecure when we are younger. Small, little things can throw us off our game…”

“If you understand that, why didn’t you move on later?”

“I don’t know. I don’t have all the answers. Probably some things are not meant to be.”

That seemed to resonate with her, as she nodded her head thoughtfully. “Some things are not meant to be…” she mumbled after him.

“You are learning the wrong thing again?” he spoke with a chuckle drawing her attention back.

“Excuse me?”

“What you need to learn is that when we are young, things affect us much more. We shouldn’t let those experiences dictate our entire life.”

Rupali smiled fondly, “You should be a motivational speaker or something…”

“I am not sure if that is a complement or sarcasm.”

“Complement,” she replied, “Time for me to take another round.”

He felt like joining her, but resisted. He shouldn’t suffocate her by imposing too much. Although he did worry a lot about how she was doing. He proposed something, “After the night duty, could we have breakfast together?”

She appeared surprised at this, but smiled immediately, “Sure. Where?”

“At my home?”

“Okay,” she nodded and left.

—

To be continued

Destined (Part 13)

Posted Mish9 CommentsPosted in English, Inspired, Rupali-Paritosh

Instead of calling Damyanti, Paritosh decided to call her husband. She had been quite baffled in the morning and he was not sure she would be in the right state of mind to face the ultimate truth.

“Dr. Khanaa. Is Rupa fine?” Sabyasachi asked as soon as he picked up the phone.

“She is all right, Mr. Moitra…”

“And…” he hesitated, but he had to ask, “What Damyanti told me… Is it true? Is that what she meant?”

“What did she tell you?”

“That Rohan had… Oh God! I don’t even know how to ask about it…”

“You should talk to her, don’t you think so?”

“I should… Of course, I should… But would she let me, Dr. Khanna? I…”

“Mr. Moitra. She would… She wants to… She really looks up to you… But… It is going to be extremely tough on you…. Hearing what you would hear about your son… About what happened under your own roof… Still, would you try to understand that it is not easy on her either… Apart from what has happened, what makes her situation worse is that she feels guilty… Of bearing this bad news…”

“The answer is ‘yes’ then… Rohan did indeed…”

Paritosh stayed silent. Sabyasachi spoke again, “Can I… we… me and Damyanti come to your house now?”

“Sure.”

—

“There is nothing to be afraid or guilty about, okay Rupali? They already understand…”

Rupali nodded, but she still stood up nervously, when her adoptive parents walked into the room.

Damyanti looked pale and weak. She slumped on one of the chairs, while Sabyasachi came to Rupali, “Why did you never tell us, Rupa?”

Her eyes filled with tears. “Kaku… I… I am sorry,” she broke down not knowing what to say.

“No. No. I am sorry… If that means anything at all…”

“I am your culprit, Rupa,” Damyanti spoke the words hardly coming out of her throat.

“Kakima…”

“I was being so selfish… I never even tried to see if things were acceptable to you. Your Kaku had warned me that we had made you decide about the marriage a little too early. He kept telling me that you were not happy with Rohan. But I just refused to see it… From his childhood, since he had left home for his studies, he never wanted to come back… We missed him so much… But he wouldn’t come even for his vacations… So, we’d go to him, make those trips with him… Only to spend some time with him… He would always try to push us away… Be angry… I managed to bring him home once… He had been furious, almost violent that he was forced to come home… But he met you… And then he started coming home… All the time… I couldn’t have wanted anything else… He was always so calm around you… You worked like a magnet… And I let him spend time with you… I thought what could be the harm, if your friendship became an anchor in his life… I am sorry my child, I just… I just didn’t see the harm… I was a blind mother… And so much harm was done…”

Paritosh had noticed Rupali stiffen as Damyanti spoke what had happened. But she did not blame Damyanti outwardly. She spoke in a steady voice, “It’s all over Kakima. There is no point dwelling on it. Just that… it was never love, or friendship. Just an obsession on his part. I never wanted to hurt you and Kaku, but I can’t… I can’t accept Rohan, Kakima. I can’t…”

“I know… I know now that it was stupid of me to ask what I did in the morning. I am… I am sorry about everything…”

“What do you plan to do now, Rupa?” Sabyasachi spoke now.

“I… I want to stay in the house my grand father left me, Kaku. If you don’t mind…”

“Of course… Just one request.”

“Just tell me Kaku. You don’t need to request me…”

“Let Radha or any other servants from the house stay with you there. I will feel at peace if you weren’t staying alone.”

“Whatever your say, Kaku.”

“About Rohan, Mr. Moitra…” Paritosh started asking as Rohan would still be a threat to Rupali’s safety.

“I am taking him out of Kolkata and… And getting him help… You don’t need to worry Rupa.”

Rupali nodded. Damyanti might not have been honest in her affection towards her, as her confession revealed. But her Kaku was a genuine person. “I am sorry, Kaku. I never wanted to hurt you…”

“I know. I know… And you have not hurt me… You were not at fault. We were… We failed you!”

“Kaku please…”

“Take care of yourself my child. I will send Radha to your house today itself. She will clean up the place and make any other arrangements needed.”

Refusing his help would have hurt him under those circumstances. So, Rupali nodded and said, “I will get you the keys.”

“I have a spare one,” Paritosh interrupted and gave his keys to Sabyasachi.

—

“You are planning to go there today itself?”

“Yes. Radha has arranged for everything. With her there, I won’t be alone. And… I know you don’t mind, but I have already imposed myself on you for too long.”

“This is your house too, Rupali.”

Rupali was startled at that declaration and looked at him questioningly.

“It’s Daar ji’s. Your grand father’s.”

Rupali smiled and shook her head, “You are an extremely generous man, Dr. Khanna. Thank you. But that house itself is more than what I need.”

“I was planning to get some more furnitures there… It’s too…”

“Dr. Khanna. What I have realized in last few days is that it is high time I took my life in my hands. And you know what my problem is?”

Paritosh sighed, “That others are not letting you be?”

“No. It’s that I have these really nice people around me who have already done so much for me that… I can hardly just throw attitude now and ask them to let me be. It’s not like I never needed their help. I did. And I took it. So, now…”

Paritosh grinned, “You think too much. But I get the point. I won’t interfere. All I would say is that taking your life in your hands does not mean you can never ask for help. If you do need help, of any kind, you can always ask. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. We all need help. Okay?”

Rupali nodded.

“But I promise, I won’t thrust anything on you.”

“Thank you. You are way too sweet!” Rupali smiled.

“I hope you won’t mind if I dropped you.”

“No. I don’t,” her smile broadened to a grin.

—

To be continued.

Destined (Part 12)

Posted Mish8 CommentsPosted in English, Inspired, Rupali-Paritosh

Rupali sat on the bed with her knees drawn close to her chin, her hands around them, and her head buried in them. Her sobs were quieter now, but she was still not calm.

“Rupali,” he called her name and touched her shoulder gently. That startled her so much that she let out a shriek.

“I am sorry… I am sorry…” Paritosh stepped back, “It’s just me. I am sorry, I scared you.”

She controlled her sobs and wiped her tears. Then she got down from the bed. “I am sorry. This… this mess is not yours to deal with. I should leave…”

“And how do you plan to deal with this mess?”

“I don’t know. But…”

“There are some pretty sickening things in the world Rupali. You are a doctor yourself and you know that. And I don’t mean physical sickness. Some things are so sickening that we might wonder how the world goes on despite them. And yet – the world does go on. Do you know why? Because there are good things in the world too. Sometimes they do not come to us on their own though. We have to stretch our hands out for them. We have to let them know that we want them. Do you understand what I am saying?”

“No. I don’t,” she tried to speak dryly, but her voice quivered giving away her emotional turmoil.

“Yes. You do. Stop running away from it. If you have suffered abuse, you need to talk. If the perpetrator is Rohan, his parents need to know… He needs to be punished…”

Rupali stiffened and then went rigid. Paritosh let the silence prevail there in the hope that it would force her to talk.

“I must leave,” she quashed his hope when she did speak finally.

“Are you scared of me too?”

“What? No!”

“And can you trust me when I say that I can never harm you?”

Rupali looked embarrassed. “Of course,” she said in a small voice.

“Then you have to stop running away from your problems, Rupali. Please.”

“I… I am so tired of even thinking about a solution that… How thankless did I sound when after depending on her all my life, I complained to her about her own son… And if she understood what I said, how would she be feeling now…”

“Whatever her son is, you have not made him that way… Someday or the other she has to face the reality…”

“It’s not fair Dr. Khanna… Why do I have to carry that bad news…”

“It’s not fair at all that you are the victim and you are the one who is feeling guilty. You are the victim. You understand that, don’t you?”

“He always tried to convince me that I wanted this… And that this was how it was supposed to be… He was so clever that I never had a reply… And yet… I always felt so…” she stopped.

“Scared?” he prompted.

“Dirty and ashamed…” her face twisted reflecting her mental agony.

“And that’s why you never told anyone?”

“I was scared too… He told me that if I spoke about it, I’d be thrown out of the house… And I knew that they were not my parents, but his… I was scared of being left alone… I was weak…”

“No. No. You were just young. It shouldn’t have happened…. It was just wrong that it happened to you…”

“I should have done something… But I could never make up my mind… And then…”

“Then?”

“When he announced that he… wanted to marry me… and everyone accepted… his behavior changed… He didn’t bother me like earlier.”

“But from what I have seen…”

“It… It wasn’t as bad as earlier…” she gulped hard and reddened in embarrassment.

Paritosh sighed. She had gotten so used to abuse that the little relief was enough for her to consider it a good situation to be in.

“I should have refused then, shouldn’t I? But… I was… First I was caught unawares… Then I was so relieved at him giving me some respite that… It felt too good… I sat back…”

“You were fine with marrying him…”

“I was relieved then… I wasn’t thinking about future…”

“And now?”

“I… I am terrified at the idea… But…”

“You didn’t know how to break the news to his parents? Well… you already have!”

“You think I did the right thing?”

“Will you take my advice?”

“If I can take any body’s… it will be you.”

“I want to ask, why?”

“They did more than what my parents could do for me… But they are not my parents… I am under their debt and… probably you understand that feeling.”

“I do. And I have told you earlier as well… You have to speak up. You have already done so… Just clarify and bring it all out in the open.”

“Will they believe me?”

“I don’t know. They sound like rational people. But it is their own son. So, they may not. However, now you don’t have to be scared of being thrown out. You are an adult, you can earn your livelihood, your grand-father has left enough for you to start your life afresh and you don’t have anything to feel guilty about. You have not done anything ungrateful towards your benefactors. But you couldn’t change what their son is. It’s not your fault.”

“You make it sound so easy…”

“Rupali,” he took a step towards her, but did not go too close. He would have liked to give her a tight hug to make her feel better, but after being told that she had suffered molestation since she was a child, that didn’t seem like an assuring thing to do. His voice was solemn, “I do not mean that your situation has been trivial all these years. I can’t even imagine how difficult life has been for you. When I make it sound easy today, it is meant for today only. In fact, I’m not saying that it is easy even today. In your situation… it is not. All I am saying is that it is doable today. So, do it.”

“Will you… come with me?” she asked with hesitation. She realized how confused her behaviour was around him. Sometimes she leaned on him, at other times she felt guilty about involving him. When Damyanti had come, she had asked him to stay, a while back she had told him that this mess was not his, and now again…she was asking him if he would come with her.

“I will,” he replied matter-of-factly.

How did he manage to bear her erratic behaviour with so much equanimity, she could not help wondering. But she did not say anything. Suddenly she noticed the time. “Oh God! I am late for the hospital… And so must be you…”

Paritosh chuckled, “You think you would not have received calls after calls, if that were the case. We are both off-duty today. I had informed the admin.”

“When?”

“Last night.”

“Oh!”

“If you are ready, we can go to Moitras’ place right away.”

“But… Rohan would be there.”

“Let me talk to them.”

—

To be continued

Destined (Part 11)

Posted Mish6 CommentsPosted in English, Inspired, Rupali-Paritosh

Paritosh parked outside Moitras’ house and asked Rupali to go in. “Mr. Moitra is highly embarrassed about his son’s behaviour. My going in will only increase his embarrassment,” he explained.

Rupali was uncomfortable, but she doubted that Paritosh’ presence would reduce her discomfort. So, she nodded and went in. When she came out with a small bag, Sabyasachi was also with her. On seeing him, Paritosh got out of the car.

“Dr. Khanna. I can’t thank you enough… Or apologize enough…”

“Let it be Mr. Moitra. I myself can’t help feeling responsible for this… If I hadn’t brought this house issue up…”

“That’s not true,” Rupali interrupted.

Paritosh and Sabyasachi looked at her questioningly. So, she had to continue, “It isn’t about the house. It is about Rohan. And me. It had to happen someday or the other. You didn’t do anything Dr. Khanna.”

“My guess is,” spoke Sabyasachi, “That she is right. Anyway, Rupa. Please don’t take what your Kakima said to heart. She is just upset and biased.”

Rupali nodded, “I understand Kaku.”

“And I will make arrangements for you soon. Irrespective of what else happens, I need you to know that… I am still your father and I will take care of you.”

“I know Kaku,” Rupali got emotional and her voice choked as she spoke, “And I want you to know that I have not forgotten… I will never forget what all you have done for me… If you hadn’t stepped in then…”

“Hush…” he silenced her and patted her head, “Calm down and don’t cry. It will be all right. Okay?”

She wiped her tears and nodded. Paritosh took out the pistol from his car and handed it over to Sabyasachi.

“Thank you,” he said not to Paritosh, but to Rupali.

Rupali blinked back her tears. They got into Paritosh’ car and drove off.

“Why was he apologizing about Mrs. Moitra?” Paritosh asked during their drive.

“She is angry and upset that Rohan is angry and upset. And like him, her anger is also directed at me.”

“Doesn’t she know…”

“She is a mother, Dr. Khanna. That explains everything.”

Paritosh didn’t reply. Obviously she didn’t want to be ungrateful to her adoptive parents. He didn’t push her.

—

“You haven’t slept well?” Paritosh asked Rupali as they were having breakfast.

“What would you have done Dr. Khanna, if Daar ji had found my mother back then and if she had become a trouble for you?”

Paritosh frowned deliberating over her question. He replied after a few moments, “You know what I would really like, Rupali. That you gave up these unnecessary pretenses. Asking stuff indirectly, with hypothetical questions… I am not sure what problem you mother could have created for me. So, I find it absolutely impossible to give an answer to your question.” Rupali flushed. Paritosh noticed, but he continued, “However, it is not so difficult for me to guess that you are conflicted about your feelings for Dr. Moitra and his parents. Am I right?”

Rupali nodded and didn’t say anything.

“Talk to them Rupali. As far as I have spoken to them, at least to Mr. Moitra, he cares about you. I don’t think they will force anything upon you. But if you don’t talk, how is anyone going to understand what is on your mind?”

Her reaction took Paritosh by surprise. Her eyes filled with tears and she ran away from the breakfast table. What was so distressing in what he said?

—

“Rupali,” she heard a slight knock at the door hardly five minutes after she had come running to her room. Given how she had run away, he had to follow her. He’d probably apologize. How was she to make him understand that he didn’t say anything wrong. It was her messed up life in which nothing could go right.

She took a moment to calm herself down and wipe her tears. She was still rehearsing in her mind what she would tell him when she opened the door, only to be greeted with surprise.

“Kakima?” her voice was hoarse from crying.

“Mrs. Moitra came just now and wanted to talk to you. I thought it could best be done in your room…”

Rupali stepped aside to let Damyanti in. Paritosh made to leave.

“Please stay. Dr. Khanna,” Rupali said surprising both Damyanti and Paritosh.

Paritosh felt awkward. It was like intruding in a family matter. But she hadn’t said it as a formality. Her voice and eyes were pleading. He looked at Damyanti. She had a frown on her face, but it faded away and she nodded to him. “You know everything Dr. Khanna. Nothing is hidden from you,” she explained. Paritosh came in.

“Rupa,” Damyanti spoke, “I have come here to apologize. On Rohan’s behalf as well as mine…”

“Kakima please. You don’t need to…”

“I am his mother, and I was agitated to see him in so much pain. But it didn’t take me long to see that what he did was inexcusable.” Rupali just bit her lips. Seeing no response from her, Damyanti continued, “But Rupa. The long and short of it is that he loves you. That was the reason he overreacted to the idea to you moving away. And even I don’t understand this. Why do you want to go away? After all these years… Are you still not comfortable? Is there something you don’t have at home? If there is, you only need to say it…”

“Please Kakima. You know that’s not the case. I have everything I could ever need and more…”

“If you want more privacy, you know that we have already bought another flat for you and Rohan. You can stay there after marriage. I would never mind that. I just… want… my son’s happiness too…”

Rupali started sobbing and Paritosh watched helplessly.

“Don’t cry my child,” Damyanti patted her, “What Rohan did was the first and the last time….”

“It wasn’t… It wasn’t a first, Kakima,” Rupali managed to say through her sobbing.

“Excuse me?”

“How can I ever explain to you…. It wasn’t a first…”

Damyanti looked at Paritosh as if expecting him to explain it to her. Paritosh was frowning, trying to think.

“Rupali,” he finally spoke, “Calm down and talk. Okay? You are safe here, you know that, right? Just tell us what do you mean?”

But she continued sobbing and buried her face in her hands.

Paritosh knew something about her problems with Rohan. So, he decided to prompt her. “Do… Do you mean that… Dr. Moitra has… forced… himself on you?” He spoke with great hesitation watching for Damyanti’s reaction at every word. Damyanti flushed, but did not react and just looked at Rupali in confused anticipation.

“Speak up Rupali. At least tell us if it is what I said.” he urged her when she did not reply and continued sobbing.

She lifted her head, but did not look them in their eyes as she slowly nodded her head. “And not today…. Ever since… ever since… he first…. met me…”

Paritosh was startled. Damyanti’s first reaction was that of confusion, “What? What do you mean?” Surely she didn’t mean that… “Talk to me, Rupa,” Damyanti became agitated and shook the girl, “Explain what did you mean just now…”

“Mrs. Moitra please… You are scaring her,” Paritosh intervened. Damyanti realized how violent she was being and moved away from Rupali. “What did she just say, Dr. Khanna? What does it even mean?”

“Let’s just step outside please. Please Mrs. Moitra.” Both of them shot a worried glance at crying Rupali and stepped out.

“I don’t know… I have no clue what she said,” Paritosh told her once they were outside, “But right now allow me sometime. As a doctor what I see there is a breakdown. Let me deal with this situation medically first. And then details will come…”

Damyanti was only half-hearing him though. She was talking to herself, “The first time he met her, she was in school… Thirteen probably…. She didn’t mean….”

“I don’t know Mrs. Moitra. But you must pull yourself together. You are the mother to these two youngsters, who seem to be troubled; for whatever reason. If you don’t hold yourself together, it can’t be good for them.”

“What do I do?”

“Go home and let me call you back. Please. I must go back to Rupali.”

Damyanti nodded absent-mindedly and walked away. Paritosh rushed back to Rupali.

—

To be continued

Destined (Part 10)

Posted Mish6 CommentsPosted in English, Inspired, Rupali-Paritosh

“Rupali! Good you came. I was wondering what color of paint would be prefer…”

“Why are you… You don’t need to be here yourself Dr. Khanna… And painting and all is not needed. I will just…”

“I think I will keep the original cream color then…”

“Are you even listening to me?” Rupali was in a bad mood and got annoyed quickly.

“Had you listened to me?” Paritosh replied with a question calmly.

“Excuse me?”

“I had asked you if you really want to stay here by yourself or is it something you have decided merely in anger?”

“This house is mine, right?”

Paritosh sighed, “Yes. It is.” She was in no mood to listen to an advice.

“And cream is fine. But you don’t need to stay here yourself for this. I can oversee the workers.”

“You have a day off?”

“Yes. I have taken a day off.”

“Fine then. I will come by in the evening. Don’t pay them, when they leave.”

Rupali nodded and Paritosh left after talking to the head contractor.

—

Rupali was taking a tour of the 4-bedroom house after the workers left. It was sparsely furnished, but had enough for her to move in. The master bedroom had a heavy, wooden bed, cupboards and a dresser. Other rooms were mostly empty except for a chair or two here and there. The kitchen had some shelves. The dining hall was empty, but the main hall had a coffee table. The sofa was in decrepit state and it won’t be usable without substantial repair.

She noticed that the hall had a number of huge colonial windows. One of them overlooked the open space that would ideally be the garden, but only had weeds right now. This house was not furnished with the modern amenities like Moitras’. But given its design and spaciousness, she felt sure that it was a luxurious property when it was brought. She would be able to make it a comfortable home for herself. She moved towards one of the windows when she heard some noise. She turned around to find Rohan at the door.

She stiffened as Rohan walked towards her without saying anything. He had that animalistic look in his eyes, which she hadn’t seen since he had announced his intent to marry her before his family.

“How did you find the place?” she asked even as she gulped hard in fear.

“What did you think? You can run away just like that?” his tone was menacing.

“I… I wasn’t running away Rohan…” Rupali realized that she was all alone with him. Even if she shouted, anyone was unlikely to hear her. Thankfully the front door was still open. Her best chance lied there.

She made to move towards the door trying not to attract his attention, but he was watching. He grabbed arms and pulled her further inside the hall with him.

“Rohan. Please let me go,” she pleaded.

He grabbed her hair and pulled her head back with a jerk. It hurt so much that she cried out. She tried to push him away with her hands, but he was too strong and the way he had grabbed her hair was hurting too much to leave much strength in her. Against her wishes, he forced a kiss on her. She gathered all her presence of mind and bit him hard on the lower lips during the kiss, thus hurting him and forcing him to withdraw. But her victory was short-lived, because the very next moment he completely disoriented her by slapping her. She didn’t have time to recover before he pushed her against the nearest wall and glared at her. He bent down and started biting her neck. She cried out, “Let me go Rohan. Help….”

“Rohan!” his father’s voice startled Rohan for a moment. He looked at the door and saw Sabyasachi and Paritosh standing at the door. He might have listened to his father, but seeing Paritosh there maddened him even further.

“This is between us, Baba. You must leave.”

Sabyasachi and Paritosh moved towards him. But he surprised them by taking out a pistol, “If you take another step, I am going to kill her!” They stopped in their tracks, while Rupali was scared beyond her wits.

“Don’t be an idiot, Rohan. Drop the gun,” Sabyasachi tried to make him understand.

“You let us deal with our problems Baba.”

“I will. But you have to drop the gun. You are scaring her.”

“She needs to be scared Baba. She needs to be. She thought she could run away from me.”

Paritosh and Rupali’s eyes met in the meanwhile, and Paritosh nodded slightly to assure her. She felt the effect and gathered herself together. She looked at Rohan and realized that he was distracted by Sabyasachi. Even though the pistol was aimed at her, he wasn’t paying attention to her. The grip of his other hand on her was also weak. She suddenly bent down and bit his arms making him jump and wince in pain. Paritosh took advantage of this and snatched the pistol away from him. He, then, pulled Rupali away from him and hugged her tight in relief. She reciprocated the hug equally. Sabyasachi meanwhile tried to control Rohan.

“Look at that whore Baba…” Rohan shouted on seeing Paritosh and Rupali hug. They separated hastily in hearing his voice.

“You have to stop right now Rohan. You are out of your mind.”

Rohan struggled to get away from Sabyasachi towards Rupali, “I’m not going to let her get away with this…”

“Enough Dr. Moitra!” It was Paritosh who shouted this time startling everyone. Even Rohan cowered for a moment. But then he made to hit him and Sabyasachi could not hold him back. Paritosh was left with no option and pointed the pistol at him, the same pistol he had snatched just moment back. “If you take another step towards Rupali, I am not going to hesitate in pulling the trigger,” he warned. Rohan stopped.

“You need to leave right now. This is my property and you have no business being here. Mr. Moitra. Please…” he indicated to Sabyasachi to take his son away. He nodded and pulled him out of the house with himself. As soon as they were out of sight, Paritosh rushed towards the main door and locked it. Rupali was overwhelmed with all the drama. She broke down and slumped on the floor. Paritosh kept the pistol down on the floor carefully and then rushed back to her. He sat down on the floor and pulled her in a comforting embrace. He let her cry for a while and did not say anything.

He spoke only after she had stopped crying and had pulled herself out of his embrace, “Are you… okay?”

She nodded.

“I don’t know if there is any water in the house. I will get a bottle from my car…” he made to get up, but she held his arms.

“Don’t… He might still be outside…”

Her concern was genuine, but they couldn’t sit holed up there forever. Paritosh hoped that Rohan’s father would have been able to control him.

“I don’t think so. And I have the pistol still,” he made a feeble attempt at a joke. But that only scared her. “Don’t worry,” he said softly, “His rage is not directed at me. And we would have known if he was still around.”

He still picked up the pistol before going out and came back without any harm coming. He made her drink water and wash her face.

And then the difficult question hung between them. Wordlessly for a while. Where was she to go? Finally Paritosh spoke, “Do you want to go back… home?” He hesitated on the last word. But it was her home.

“How… can… I…” Rupali replied very slowly, as if she was weighing each word and trying to understand its implication herself. “I… think… I will just stay here…”

“No. You can’t. This isn’t livable yet. You don’t have your stuff, the space outside needs cleaning up and you… Staying here alone is not safe for you right now…”

“And that place is very safe?” her voice was weak, but her bitterness showed through.

“In that case…” he was interrupted because Rupali’s mobile rang.

“It’s Kaku,” she spoke feebly and then looked at Paritosh with questioning eyes. She didn’t know what to do.

“Pick it up.”

“What will I tell him?”

“He might want to tell you something. Pick it up, otherwise he will worry about you.”

She nodded and picked the phone, “Hello!” Her voice quivered.

“Rupa. Darling, are you fine? I am…”

“Kaku. I haven’t done anything to cheat on Rohan. He was…”

“I know. I know, Rupa. And I am sorry, I am really sorry that it came to this… We should have known better… But don’t worry. I am coming there and will bring you back myself…”

“Kaku,” she started crying, “I can’t… I can’t come there… Please don’t get me wrong. But…”

Sabyasachi sighed audibly, “Is Dr. Khanna still there?”

“Yes Kaku.”

“Can you please give the phone to him?”

She handed the phone wordlessly to him. After initial greetings, Paritosh indicated to Rupali that he needs to talk to him in private and moved away from her.

“Rupali,” he came back after a while, “This pistol is licensed to Mr. Moitra. Apparently Dr. Moitra had take it without his knowledge. He wanted to know if you… intend to file a case against Dr. Moitra and keep it as a proof or…”

“Case??” Rupali was surprised, “What case? Oh! No… No. I wasn’t even thinking… What kind of a question is that?”

“Then we’d return it to him,” he ignored how flustered she was, “And… this place is not livable yet, Rupali… You should come with me to my house…”

“And prove all his accusations about me and you right? No Dr. Khanna,” she was finally getting her bearings.

“Firstly, after what happened today, why do you even care what he thinks? Even his father doesn’t. Secondly, Mr. Moitra himself agreed to the idea.”

“How come he came here with you?” she suddenly wondered.

“He had called me up and wanted to talk you out of the idea of moving out of home. So, I asked him to come along…”

“Hmm…”

“We can figure out the rest of it later. Right now let’s go… We will pick up your clothes and other things on the way.”

She had no better option to propose. She got up from the floor and followed him out of the house locking it behind them.

—

To be continued

Destined (Part 9)

Posted Mish5 CommentsPosted in English, Inspired, Rupali-Paritosh

Paritosh assumed that Rupali would not turn up at the orphanage that day and started his check up after waiting for ten minutes past their appointed time. She had been avoiding him in the hospital since their encounter about Daar ji’s house. So, it was understandable that she would not want to come here, where talking to him would be unavoidable.

But she came after another five minutes. “I’m sorry, I got late.”

“It’s okay,” Paritosh replied calmly, although his heart had leapt with joy on seeing her. “Go get your friends in the next group too. Dr. Rupali is here,” he told one of the kids. “I asked them to go back because I thought you might not come,” he explained.

Rupali just nodded and they did the checkups mostly in silence.

—

Paritosh was unsure after the check up about whether he should offer to drop her back as usual. But she apparently had assumed that he would, because she walked back with him wordlessly to his car.

“I’m sorry,” she said after he had started the car.

“Thank God, you spoke. Sorry for what?”

“For behaving the way I did. Rudely.”

“I broke too big a news all of a sudden on you. It’s not a big deal. But have you concluded differently now?”

“I can’t decide. It doesn’t sound right.”

“What can be wrong about it? The whole world inherits things from their ancestors. It is all yours, Rupali. Daar ji really regretted behaving that way with your mother. You should forgive a dead man.”

“Who am I to forgive anyone? Anyway, I know you felt like you were a substitute for my mother. And you probably feel burdened by the favor. But it isn’t fair that you shift that burden on me. Like I had said earlier, I already have a set of people who I owe a huge favor…”

“They are your guardians, right? How about you asked their opinion.”

“I don’t even know how to broach the topic to them. What would they think?”

“Let me drop you home.”

“Huh? Where else would you drop me?”

“I mean not at the mall, or the signal. At your home. Since you had decided not to talk to me, I was planning to talk to them about it.”

“What? No…”

“I know how you feel about Dr. Moitra. At least I think I know… But as far as I know his parents, they are nice people.”

“That they are.”

“Then why have you distanced yourself from them so much?”

She sighed. What could she say? Ever since Rohan had entered her life, she was afraid of revealing too much of herself to his parents. Revealing herself would soon mean revealing Rohan; and revealing that part of him that they would not have imagined in their worst nightmares…

“Even if I tried to stop you, you would still talk to them?” she asked instead of replying to his question.

“You leave me with no other option Rupali.”

“Fine then. Let’s see what they have to say.”

—

“What the hell were you doing Rupa? I have been waiting for hours now, to take you to a movie,” Rohan burst out on Rupali as soon as she entered the house. He was so preoccupied that he didn’t even notice Paritosh entering behind her.

“I didn’t know you were planning anything like that,” Rupali replied in as steady a voice as she could manage.

“Why didn’t you tell me before leaving home?”

“Hello Dr. Moitra,” Paritosh intervened.

“Dr. Khanna? What are you doing here?”

“Rohan!” It was his father Sabyasachi Moitra, who had come to the hall, “Are you an eight year old or what? Do I have to remind you how to behave with guests? Please come in Dr. Khanna.”

Rohan walked inside in a huff.

“I am sorry about Rohan, Dr. Khanna,” Sabyasachi continued, “He has a bad temper.”

“It’s okay. It is understandable. I believe he had some plans that were spoiled.” Rupali’s and Paritosh’ eyes met for a moment as he said that and her face flushed.

“Please sit down. Rupa, can you ask the cook to get some tea and refreshments. Your Kakima has gone to visit her cousin today.”

“Sure Kaku.”

—

When Rupali came back to the hall, Rohan was also there. He looked angrier than earlier, while his father was thoughtful.

“This is an odd, a really odd situation. But I think… it really has to be her decision Dr. Khanna. What can I say?”

“Baba. She doesn’t need this,” Rohan interrupted.

“It was a dying man’s last wish Mr. Moitra,” Paritosh ignored Rohan and addressed Sabyasachi.

Sabyasachi had noticed Rupali by then, “What do you want Rupa?”

“I… I don’t know Kaku. I have never known him…”

“She is right Baba,” Rohan spoke interrupting her, “How do we know Dr. Khanna is speaking the truth.”

“Stop it, Rohan,” Rupali was irritated, “What business Dr. Khanna has lying about it? He is giving something away…”

“How do I know what business he has with you… You should know better….”

“Rohan!” Rupali surprised everyone by shouting at him, “You have no business insulting someone like this…”

“I don’t, is it?” Rohan was caustic, “Or is it that your business with me and my family is done? Now that you have found another benefactor…”

“Rohan!” Rupali and Sabyasachi shouted together. But Rupali could not face it any further. Tears clouded her eyes and she ran away crying.

“Leave Rohan,” Sabyasachi ordered his son.

Rohan was not in the least bit apologetic as he left.

“I don’t know how to apologize Dr. Khanna. This was…”

“No,” Paritosh interrupted him looking thoughtful, “In fact, I am sorry. I was trying to do the right thing. But right intentions do not make for right actions I believe.”

“That’s just… Let me talk to Rupa when Rohan is not around. And let me call you,” Sabyasachi was obviously very embarrassed.

“Sure. That’s fine…”

—

Paritosh was about to start his car, when his mobile rang. It was Rupali.

“Dr. Khanna. Please don’t leave. I am coming out in a minute,” she said hastily and disconnected the call.

Paritosh came out of the car and waited awkwardly.

“I want that house,” she said. She had washed her face, but it was still puffy from crying, “and I want to stay there.”

“Sure,” Paritosh replied and then hesitated for a moment, “The house is yours. What I am not sure is whether it it livable right now. I never went there. I don’t know when was it attended to last.”

“Oh!”

“Here is one set of keys. I will keep another one for now. If it is fine by you, I will get it cleaned up.”

“Can you do that?” Rupali was unsure about taking another favour from him, but she wasn’t up for the task herself either.

“Yes, I can and I will. But what you need to do is rethink about it with a cool head. Do you really want to live there by yourself? Or are you just angry right now?”

“I will pay you for whatever is the expense of cleaning up,” she just ignored his question.

“That is not needed. Keeping it clean was my responsibility. But do you really want to stay there?”

“Thanks for the keys, Sir,” she said and went back inside the house. Neither of them noticed Rohan watching them from the window of his room.

—

To be continued

Destined (Part 8)

Posted Mish3 CommentsPosted in English, Inspired, Rupali-Paritosh

Rohan had finally left after fussing over her. She had managed to convince Damyanti also that she just needed some rest and would be fine by evening when time for her night duty came. Now she was alone at home. She had just finished her breakfast in bed, when the cook came in and gave her a card. Someone had come to meet her.

“Dr. Khanna?” she was surprised. She deliberated for a moment whether to meet him in the hall or have him brought to her room. She was still in her night-dress. Sitting on the bed covered up in a blanket would be a more presentable state than going downstairs in that dress, she decided. “Please bring him here,” she told the cook.

“What has happened to you?” Paritosh was agitated when he came in.

“Please sit down, Dr. Khanna,” Rupali felt cheerful on seeing him. She indicated towards a chair lying near her bed.

Paritosh sat down, “I was in the admin office when you called.”

“Nothing has happened. I was just tired. Need some rest.”

“Let me check,” he touched her forehead to feel the temperature, then took the pulse. That’s when she noticed his wrists and got surprised.

“Do you always wear cuff-links?”

He was awkward, “Uh… Sort of… Why?”

“No. Just like that,” she realized how abrupt and awkward her question was. But she couldn’t help asking it. Those were the helping hands she had seen in the background in her nightmare. The hands that did not reach her in the dream. But which had reached her now. Had she subconsciously noticed his hands earlier? Could it be…

“I think I will leave you to take rest,” Paritosh’ voice brought her out of her thoughts.

“No. Please have some tea before leaving…”

“Some other time Rupali. I need to be back at the hospital.”

“You came just to see me?” she also noticed him using her name instead of the formal “Dr. Banerjee”.

“I got worried.”

“Now you are not worried, I hope. My vitals are all fine,” she smiled.

“I am. I am worried. And I feel guilty. So, please take care.”

“Guilty? What for?”

“For saying things that I shouldn’t have said. Things that disturbed you. Anyway. Talking about them again would be of no help. You take rest. I will see you later,” he walked out before she could say anything.

It took her some time to go to sleep, but exhaustion finally took over and she slept off. Dreamlessly!

—

She had taken her rounds and was in the common room at night. Nobody else was around, when Paritosh walked in.

“What are you doing here at this hour, Sir?” Rupali was surprised to see him.

He sat across from her on a chair, “Didn’t have anything to do at home. Have a day off tomorrow as well. So, I stayed on.”

“You don’t have the reputation of being a workaholic for no reason,” she smiled, “But since you are here, I must tell you something. You have been unnecessarily feeling guilty. You didn’t say anything I was not already aware of.”

“I hope so. But you must not fall ill.”

“No. I won’t. That’s why I have become a doctor,” she suddenly chuckled.

“Really? The doctors don’t fall ill according to you?”

“I was very weak as a child. Would often fall ill. Mummy used to say that when I grow up I would become a doctor and then diseases would be scared of me and I will not fall ill. That used to reassure me. Things we believe as kids,” she laughed slightly.

Paritosh also joined in her laughter, “So, that’s why you chose your career in medicine?”

“Rohan thinks it was because of him. But yes – it was because of Mummy.”

“Tell me more about your parents.”

“Well… What can I say? My father, you already know, worked at a school. Before I was born my mother had worked as a governess to Rohan. My father had also tutored him. That’s how Kakima and Kaku knew them so well. Apart from that, they were like any other set of parents. They loved each other. They loved me even more. And I think I was pretty well-behaved as a child. Didn’t need much scolding. So, they didn’t have to…” They both laughed at that. “I always carry a photograph of them. It was taken soon after they were married. Let me show you,” she seemed excited to be talking about her parents.

Paritosh was stunned when he saw the photograph though.

“What was your mother’s name?”

She chuckled, “A very awkward Jeet Banerjee. She was not a Bengali actually. She clearly doesn’t look like one, does she? But she took my father’s name after marriage anyway. She would often jokingly complain about it. That her marriage made a mess of her name. And that’s why she had chosen to go with a Bengali name for me.”

“That’s… nice… I just remembered some work Dr. Banerjee. Can you see me before leaving for home in the morning?”

“Sure. But why?”

“Later,” he said and left abruptly. He drove home, but came back after a while.

—

“Dr. Khanna?” Rupali came to his office in the morning before leaving for home. He had fallen asleep on his chair. He woke up startled.

“Dr. Banerjee! Please sit down. I’m sorry. I drowsed off.”

“It’s okay. You must be tired. You had asked me to meet you…”

“Yes. Please give me a minute,” he excused himself to wash his face and then came back to the office.

Rupali was standing looking some of the book on his shelves, when he came back.

“Please sit down Dr. Banerjee.”

His behaviour was making her very curious. “What is it Dr. Khanna? Anything serious?” She sat down.

“Do you have a few minutes?”

“Sure.”

“I have told you about Daar ji, right?”

“A little, yes.”

“Before dying, he had made me promise that I will find his daughter.”

“Find her? You mean she is alive? Didn’t you say…”

“He had lost her… No, she wasn’t dead. Not then, anyway. She had run away, because she had fallen in love with a Bengali boy and Daar ji, in his anger, was trying to get her married off. He really regretted that later in his life, especially in his last hours. Unfortunately he didn’t know anything about her whereabouts. And as it happened, he told me everything else he knew, but not her name before dying.”

“Then?” Rupali was engrossed in the story and didn’t wait to think why he was telling her all that.

“So, I was quite helpless… Until last night… Do you recognize this?” he handed her the photograph from Daar ji’s box.

“Why of course… This is… Oh my God! Mummy?” her eyes widened in surprise and she stood up abruptly.

“I thought so too… Unfortunately I am too late for your mother… But not for you.” She stared in silence as he picked up some keys from the table, along with a letter. “This is the house he had wanted me give to her. The papers will take some time for transfer. But here is the address and these are the keys. You might want to…”

“You are joking, right?”

“No Rupali. In fact, everything he owned is yours…”

“Stop Dr. Khanna. Please.”

“What happened?”

“I have enough burdens of charity already. I can’t add another person to the list. Fine – you know about my problems. But that doesn’t mean you have to act like my knight in shining armour.”

“Where did that come from?” Paritosh was baffled, “You think I am lying? Why would I… And where will I get a photograph of your mother from, you tell me?”

“That might all very well be true. But… Anything else does not make sense.”

“What doesn’t?”

Rupali paused for few moment before replying, “Nothing he had could be mine…. How can it be… When he was not there for Mummy, what could I possibly mean to him? Thank you, that you thought of me. But one way or the other, anything any one does for me is going to be a favour. I would rather take it from the people who were there for me when I was alone, than from a person who was not there for his own daughter. I am sorry.” She left immediately.

Paritosh sank down in his chair. This wasn’t how he had imagined this conversation to go. He had thought about it the entire night. He had peered at Jeet’s photograph again yesterday. Except for her wheatish complexion and leanness of face, Rupali had borrowed every single feature from her mother. He also realized why he had been noticing her repeatedly during his address to the interns for their orientation. It was not because Rohan had pointed her out to him. It was because she was subconsciously reminding him of the nameless face he had practically memorized every feature of at one point of time. In the hopeless hope of finding her somewhere – out of blue and fulfilling Daar ji’s last wish by giving her the house – and more if she wanted. But over time the hope had faded. And then yesterday, Rupali showed him the photograph. A better coincidence could not have been divined for him. He would finally be able to fulfill Daar ji’s wish – the man who had been everything to him. And he had hoped that it would make Rupali happy and hopeful. That she had something to call her own. That she need not be dependent on anybody any longer. But it had all gone wrong…

Now that Paritosh thought about it, he realized that he had been too blinded by his excitement to think it through. This is not the kind of news one gets everyday. Him assuming that he could predict her reaction was presumptuous on his part. But what should he do now?

—

To be continued