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आंखो में हो तुम

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Kusum Sharma

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"This time you won't get a single rupee! You've had your way for too long... and all this debt you've accumulated... you'll pay it all back with your own earnings... and arrange your own ticket back to India... Understand?"<br /> <br /> Dhaval's fist...

Total Chapters (165)

Page 1 of 9

  • 1. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 1

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    "This time you won't get a single rupee! You've had your fill of doing as you please... and all this debt you've accumulated... you'll pay it all back with your own earnings... and arrange your own ticket back to India... understood..."



    Dhawal's fists clenched. From behind, his mother's voice could be heard, "Don't do this... it's a chance to come home after so many years... if you can't give it, I will..."



    "Absolutely silent! This pampered prince has lived in luxury... all because of you... you've spoiled him... if you had controlled him, he'd know the value of money... If you give him even one rupee, don't speak to me for the rest of your life..."



    Then, calling the secretary, he said, "I need Madam's account details..."



    Dhawal, hearing his father's words, angrily hung up the phone. After that, his mother kept calling, but he didn't talk to her.



    Suddenly, his father had dropped the bomb of earning for himself on Dhawal! Like his father, he too got angry quickly.



    In anger, Dhawal took his bike and rode onto the streets of Miami. After riding for some distance, the bike ran out of fuel, switching to reserve. After dragging the bike on foot for some distance, he spotted a filling station. Seeing it, he breathed a sigh of relief.



    He asked the girl in English to fill his fuel, and as he was paying after the fuel was pumped, Indian currency was in his hand. Seeing this, he slapped his forehead.



    Looking at the girl, he said, "Sorry..."



    As he was parking the bike aside, the girl approached him as he was putting down the pipe, "Hey, what happened?"



    Hearing her Hindi, Dhawal was shocked and asked, "Are you Indian?"



    The girl replied, "Yes... if you want, you can give me the Indian currency, and I'll pay in return..."



    Dhawal said with a sigh of relief, "Anyway, I need to sell the bike..."



    Saying this, he extended the rupees towards the girl.



    The girl enthusiastically said, "This is new... why do you want to sell it?"



    Dhawal said angrily, "To clear my debts and go back home to India..."



    The girl, realizing it was a personal matter, didn't say anything. After thinking for a moment, she said, "Okay, if you're selling the bike, I'm ready to buy it..."



    Dhawal replied, "What's the point of selling the bike... I need to get a job too!"



    The girl said softly, "Actually, a position just opened up at this filling station two days ago... you can talk to them if you want!"



    Dhawal said in surprise, "Why do you want to help me?"



    The girl shrugged and said, "I thought you were in difficulty..."



    Dhawal was astonished hearing her pure Hindi.



    Dhawal was about to leave, then stopped and said, "Okay, listen Miss... I need to talk to you, I'll come with the documents tomorrow!"



    The girl said, "My name is Mriganshi..."



    Dhawal said playfully, "This is so tough... should I call you 'Doe'..."



    Mriganshi put her hands on her waist and stared, then Dhawal burst out laughing. Mriganshi's phone rang. Seeing the caller, she quickly picked up, "Hello Papa... I'm just coming... in fifteen minutes... something important came up... I'll tell you everything when I get home! Okay, bye..."



    Dhawal smiled and gestured to Mriganshi, saying, "Indian Dad..." He thought to himself, "There's my dad... a complete grump... who does things like this... especially when their son is alone abroad... They'll be satisfied only after taking my life. There should be some fun and enjoyment in life..."



    Lost in thought, he headed towards his room. Upon reaching there, he saw his friends preparing to go to India, while he himself was far from going to India... rather, he had to figure out the room rent and his own expenses... only then would the dream of going to India be fulfilled.



    Just then, his friend said, "Try asking your maternal grandfather, maybe something can be arranged..."



    "No, now I will go to India on my own strength!" Dhawal said in a deep, cold voice.



    Mriganshi, having changed her clothes, sat down at the dining chair and said, "Papa... I met a boy at the filling station today... he wants to sell his bike... should I buy it?"



    Her mother, placing roti on the plate, said, "There's no need... college is over... the filling station is nearby..."



    Mriganshi looked at her mother in surprise and said, "Mom... you worry unnecessarily..."



    Her mother, sliding her chair, sat down and said, "But why do you need a bike?"



    Mriganshi said, "In a few days, my friends are planning to go to Miami Beach! Mom, please don't say no now... and don't give your logic... please..."



    Her mother couldn't help but say, "You know... you can't trust a storm..."



    Mriganshi said helplessly, "Papa..."



    Her father said, "Eat your food first... then we'll think about it!"



    As the three were eating, Mriganshi's phone rang, and seeing the name, she excitedly said, "Mom and Dad, it's a video call from Vedant Bhai!"



    Mriganshi talks to Vedant...



    When Dhawal checked his phone, he had unlimited missed calls from his mother! As soon as he answered, his younger sister burst out,



    "You know what not answering the phone means, right?... Mom's BP has gone high because you didn't answer... you can't imagine what she's thinking... have you attempted suicide... keep your anger to yourself... and who are you trying to show all this to... you're angry with Papa, so stay angry with him, but Mom... you can't imagine how much she's lost her mind... she's been crying her heart out..." Pranamiji's voice choked up.



    Dhawal said, "No need to get emotional... I'll keep troubling all of you by sitting on your chests... understand... and what were you saying... suicide attempt, these foolish things are not for me! Tell Mom I'm fine..."



    "Seriously, come home, I'll beat you so hard, you'll remember... you'll never do such a thing again!" Saying this, Dhawal's mother's eyes welled up with tears.



    Dhawal coaxed, "Sorry Mom... please don't do all this... just chill, you're modern... don't act like an old lady..."



    "Brother, Mom (Grandma) is right behind you," Pranamiji said, laughing.



    Dhawal, holding his ears and looking at his grandmother, said, "Sorry old lady..."



    (Grandma) Mom said, "Come home, then I'll perform an 'aarti' with my slipper on you... your father was also like this at one time..."



    Dhawal said, "Okay guys... I might get a job tomorrow!"



    "Congratulations, brother!" Pranamiji said excitedly, then after thinking, she said, "Which absolute fool is giving you a job!"



    "Someone has arrived as an incarnation of a goddess... a living Lakshmi... she expressed interest in buying the bike..." Dhawal seemed lost in thought...



    Pranamiji wiggled her finger and said, "She's definitely a ghost... she must have realized that he's also lazy like me... useless... good-for-nothing..."



    Dhawal glared and said, "Are you going to shut up now or not... Mom..."



    Dhawal's mother glared, and Mom (Grandma) hid her behind her veil.



    To be continued*****

  • 2. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 2

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    Miami is a major city in southeastern Florida, United States. Miami and the surrounding metropolitan area are located on Biscayne Bay, between the Everglades and the Atlantic Ocean. Miami is famous for its pristine beaches, non-stop nightlife, and glorious warm weather. Miami is also known for its stunning skyline, magnificent shopping malls, Art Deco architecture, and luxurious hotels.



    On Miami’s beaches, the Atlantic Ocean merges with the Caribbean Sea; the sand is soft and white, and the water laps the shore in a pale blue, almost clear aqua. The area offers over a dozen beaches, all with their own stretch. It goes without saying you are going to spend some time on its best white-sand beaches. But with these stretches of sand spanning over eight miles of Florida's Atlantic coast, it is good to have some local insight as to where to go.



    Miami Beach offers a diversity that extends far beyond sun and sand, encompassing world-famous nightlife and world-renowned art galleries, first-class hotels and second-to-none dining, designer shopping, and a unique architectural style that makes it one of the most celebrated.



    For the past few years, Karan had been working here. He had spent precious moments of his life with Mayuri! Today, both his children had become self-reliant. Mriganshi came into his life two years after their wedding. She was a girl of mixed heritage, raised with Indian values, and quite vivacious. Younger than her was Vedank, who, at the behest of Seema ji and Prithvisingh, was staying in Delhi with his brothers and studying law.



    Mriganshi had just completed her college. She was bored sitting at home. Despite Mayuri’s objections, she had joined a job, with Karan’s support.



    Karan had explained to Mayuri that one should learn to face difficulties by going out into the world. Still, Mayuri’s heart wouldn't rest, and she would call Mriganshi when it got late.



    Mriganshi would also get irritated… but Mayuri had always been soft-hearted. She couldn’t bear to see others unhappy; these were her own flesh and blood! How could she watch anything happen to them! After sending Vedank away, she cried so much that it was difficult for Karan to console her.



    Mayuri was also in a dilemma. She couldn't defy the orders of Maa-sa and Baba-sa, but she knew her own condition and how she had managed herself. If Karan hadn't been there, perhaps she couldn't have imagined her life!



    Dhawal arrived at the filling station with his documents. Mriganshi, engrossed in her work, gestured for him to go into the office.



    After submitting the documents and completing the interview, he came out and politely excused himself to Mriganshi, who was working, and thanked her. In return, she smiled and got back to her work.



    Dhawal was irritated by her behavior. Dhawal thought to himself, "She's acting too proud… Ughhh…"



    How could a person who commanded everyone around tolerate such indifference! On top of that, the bitter words his father had spoken on the first day had reopened his wound, but he had to suppress his pain and anger! On foreign soil, who helps whom, thinking only of this, he stopped.



    The next day, Dhawal received a call asking him to join the job. When he heard his salary, he was shocked and said, "What???"



    Dhawal blurted out in Hindi, "That's my daily expense!"



    Mriganshi said with a smile, "That might be your daily expense! Currently, you are so strapped for cash that you're in a position where you have to sell your bike. And as for these people, they still haven’t understood Hindi. If they find out, they'll throw you out right now! Then you can keep saying, 'It's no use crying over spilt milk…'"



    Dhawal was angry at her speaking like that, but what could he do? It was only because of this that he agreed to the job.



    After paying the money to her boss, Mriganshi came out, and Dhawal stopped her by grabbing her arm. Mriganshi’s eyebrows furrowed, and looking at Dhawal’s hand, she said, "Remove your hand!"



    Dhawal, in confusion, said, "What???"



    Mriganshi sternly said, "Didn't you hear? I said remove your hand!"



    Seeing his dismissive attitude, Dhawal released her hand and said in a soft tone, "Man, what is it? I just touched you, everything is permissible here!"



    Mriganshi said with displeasure, "It might be permissible here, but not here with me! I don't like it when someone touches me like this!"



    Mriganshi absolutely did not like Dhawal touching her like that! Dhawal got back to his work. The prince was more annoyed with working.



    Mriganshi said in an explanatory tone, "This isn't home where you're behaving like this… It won't take two minutes for the boss to kick you out. Understood…"



    Dhawal irritably said, "I don't need you to teach me!"



    About half an hour passed when the boss arrived, gave him a warning, and left. Mriganshi felt like laughing, but despite trying to suppress it, a smile spread across her face. Dhawal noticed this. He became angry with her.



    Dhawal didn't talk the whole time, so Mriganshi also didn't notice that he was angry. She was concerned with her work and left for home as soon as her duty was over. It was a fifteen-minute distance. She used to walk to and fro, using it as an excuse for exercise.



    To be continued*****

  • 3. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 3

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    Dhaval didn't talk much the whole time, so Mriganshi didn't notice he was upset. She was concerned with her work and left for home as soon as her duty was off. It was a fifteen-minute distance; she used to walk to and fro, pretending it was for exercise.



    Two or three days passed in the same manner. Mriganshi minded her own business and went home after finishing her work. Dhaval also ignored her.



    After a full seven days, as she was leaving, Mriganshi said, "Dhaval, you're selling your bike, right...?"



    Dhaval said while starting the bike, "Why? Don't you listen once, or should I make an announcement?"



    Mriganshi's facial expression changed, and she said, placing her hand on the bike's handlebars, "I want to buy it, that's why I asked!"



    Dhaval replied, "Talk to me when you have the payment in hand!"



    Mriganshi said, "Hmmmm... business attitude..."



    As Dhaval ignored her and started to move ahead, Mriganshi placed her hands on her waist and stood in front of him. Dhaval stopped and glared at her angrily.



    "My father wants to see this bike, so come with me!" Mriganshi said quickly, sitting behind him.



    Dhaval said with displeasure, "This is a good tactic of you people! Ignore the other person's reaction and do as you please!"



    Mriganshi said in surprise, "One pays attention to what is their own! My principle is to help those in need, but don't let them take advantage!"



    Dhaval said while riding the bike, "One should talk with a purpose. Once the purpose is served, it's like 'who are you, who am I,' unnecessary... isn't it..."



    Mriganshi pointed her finger and said, "Stop at the house at the last corner!"



    After getting off in front of the house after a few moments, she said, "Wait two minutes, I'll call my father!"



    Dhaval shrugged his shoulders and stood there. After five minutes, Karan came out. Dhaval moved forward and touched his feet. Somewhere, Indian traditions emerged upon seeing an Indian.



    Karan patted him on the back and blessed him. Karan invited him inside and walked ahead.



    Dhaval was sitting with Karan in the living room when Mayuri brought water for both of them. By the time Mriganshi came after changing, Karan had checked everything, and the deal was almost finalized; but Mayuri intervened.



    Mayuri said, placing the tea tray, "We are not buying this bike today. There's an auspicious time after ten days, we'll buy it then!"



    Mriganshi's excitement was dampened. She shouted like a child standing in the hall, "Mama... nothing will happen!"



    Mayuri said, "Mrig, you know I believe in these things. I can't take any risks. Now you have to listen to me!"



    Karan knew Mayuri believed in such things, so he thought it best to convince Mriganshi. He told Dhaval to meet him after ten days and sent him away.



    Karan said, putting his hand on Mriganshi's shoulder, "Mrig, my daughter doesn't behave this way... what happened today?"



    Mriganshi said sadly, "Next week, all my friends are going to Miami Beach! I want to go too!"



    "Those English friends of yours, Kali... Ella... Nikole... right! I won't send you with them!" Mayuri said while tidying the utensils.



    Mriganshi got irritated, "Kaylie, Nicole, Gabriella, Megan, Daisy... I only have five friends..."



    Mayuri laughed. Karan nodded at their conversation and said, "There's no hope for this mother-daughter duo!"



    Mriganshi said, quite annoyed, "Who can say? I grew up in the USA! Here, girls get boyfriends as soon as they are born, and I'm longing for one!"



    Mayuri looked stunned, and Karan laughed at her statement. Mriganshi turned to Karan and said, "Papa, you've spoiled Mama!"



    Mayuri, in her thin voice, and holding her ears, said, "I'll even ask for an auspicious time for that, the one who will stay with you for a lifetime! I'll tell Maa-sa and Baba-sa to find a boyfriend for you and hand over the responsibility to them!"



    Mriganshi, annoyed, said "Mamaaaa..." as she went into her room.



    Seeing her go, Karan came to Mayuri, "Let her go... why are you tormenting this little flower..."



    Mayuri said, glaring, "Hukum, you know there are storms there, and the sun is so harsh... she can't tolerate it!... What about her eye allergies... you melt so quickly for your daughter that you pour all your love on her!... I can't let her go, and what is this new fashion of boyfriends... change them like clothes, if you don't like one today, you find another!"



    Karan said, putting one hand around her neck, "My dear Hukum Sa, this is the age for enjoyment..."



    Then, touching his nose with his finger, he said, "When the mother herself is so lovely, what can be said about the children... that's why they receive so much love!"



    Saying this, he moved closer to Mayuri, but Mayuri, sensing his intentions, pushed him away and said, "Go... I'm cooking! Go and convince your darling!"



    Karan laughed seeing the expression on Mayuri's face and went to persuade Mriganshi.



    Dhaval left there, caught in a strange dilemma. He was surprised to hear Mayuri's words. Despite living here, she was upholding Indian traditions in this manner!



    Where he used to eat fifty-six dishes, today he was filling his stomach with just noodles. Dhaval's friend called, who had gone to Goa for fun. Dhaval also had plans to go with them, but...



    Seeing them spend time like this, Dhaval got angry and was about to throw the noodles, but his hand stopped. He had nothing else to eat, so he had to fill his stomach with this. Dhaval's mobile rang. He looked at the number and got irritated.



    To be continued*****

  • 4. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 4

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    Seeing them spend time like that angered Dhaval, and he was about to throw the noodles; then his hands stopped! He had nothing else to eat, so he had to make do with this. Dhaval's mobile rang. Seeing the number, he got irritated.



    Picking up the call, he said, "Speak quickly, I don't have balance money, and yes, from now on, I'll call myself, but not every day!"



    Pranami was eating Kalakand—eating, or rather, teasing Dhaval—"Brother, you're coming on the line."



    Dhaval said angrily, "Let me come home, then you'll know if I'm on the line or not."



    Pranami made a face and said, "Oohh… nothing can be done about you! The way you get short-tempered… and behave like a child… for that, you need a master…"



    Dhaval watched in confusion. Pranami thought and said, "You need a teacher who can straighten you out with a cane!"



    "No one has been born to hit Dhaval with a cane, understand… my entire balance is gone!" As soon as Dhaval said this, the call was disconnected!



    Dhaval grudgingly finished his noodles and started playing games. His friend had paid this month's rent. While playing the game, he remembered and started managing his expenses according to his salary.



    His mouth involuntarily opened in surprise—"How low is this…"



    Dhaval said, suppressing his anger, "If everyone's dad became like my dad, no one could stop the earth from prospering!"



    Karan's face flashed before Dhaval. "And how else was that girl's dad talking!"



    Dhaval washed his dishes and went to sleep, but sleep eluded him. For the first time today, Dhaval had to manage everything, somehow… his mind couldn't figure out where to cut expenses! Just then, his phone rang. Seeing the number, his eyebrows furrowed, and he picked it up. As soon as he picked up the bar phone, the person started demanding his money. Dhaval tried to reason with him, but he didn't agree and threatened to file a police complaint.



    Dhaval started looking for money. Nothing was found, but Pranami's platinum-diamond bracelet, given on Rakhi, did come to hand. He didn't feel like it. Pranami had gotten it made herself, with 'DC' written in diamonds, surrounded by a thick chain.



    Glancing at it, Dhaval brought it to his lips, put it in his pocket, and headed towards the bar. He pawned his bracelet at the bar owner's place, came back, and lay down, but the eyes of the one swinging in a cradle of gold were sleepless today.



    The next day, when Dhaval woke up, he was stunned to see the time. He had applied for a job somewhere, but what could be done now! The interview time was over…



    Dhaval sat down holding his head and said, "Why is all this happening to me??? If Pranami were here, she would have helped… but…"



    Everything was beyond his understanding, then he saw Mriganshi's calm face. Dressed in jeans-shirt, with her hair tied in a ponytail with a rubber band, wearing belly shoes, she used to come in a simple guise, solving everyone's problems with a smile, Mriganshi touched his heart.



    Returning from work in the evening, Dhaval said, "Mrig, can you spare some time!"



    Mriganshi stared. "Oh man, to talk… staring like this at every word is not right!" Dhaval said innocently.



    His way of speaking was such that Mriganshi melted, but turning back, she warned, "Only my family can call me Mrig! You have no right!"



    Dhaval walked with her on foot—he had come on foot anyway; according to him, saving money for petrol for the bike to get the bracelet back was essential. It was a precious gift from his sister, which she had bought with her pocket money and money received from her grandfather. Dhaval said, "Do you always act so aloof??? Or because you see me…"



    Mriganshi glared—"Say what you have to say!"



    Dhaval said, "I want to extend my hand and say, we are friends."



    Mriganshi stood by the roadside with her hands folded, looking at him, and said, "Where did the talk of friendship come from now? Say what you have to say quickly… then you go your way, I go mine…"



    As Dhaval turned to leave, Mriganshi, annoyed, stamped her foot and said, "Now what happened???"



    Dhaval didn't stop; Mriganshi ran from behind and stood in front of him—"Your screws are loose… you just change your mind!"



    Dhaval stopped and said, looking at her, "Understand it like that, and when you mean nothing to me, why should I talk to you! I came thinking there is no one here from whom I can ask anything or who can suggest something to me! I saw you, so I thought you could help… but you are like the stock market, your sensex keeps rising! I don't see it stopping anywhere!"



    Mriganshi was speechless hearing his comparison.



    Mriganshi said dismissively, "You have only five minutes…"



    Dhaval extended his hand and said, "If you agree to friendship…"



    Mriganshi put her hands in her pockets and said, "You won't agree???"



    Dhaval turned and said, "There is no question of agreeing or not agreeing!"



    Mriganshi extended her hand! Dhaval shook hands and immediately let go! What was it… or did he remember the behavior of that day!



    Mriganshi walked a short distance; in the middle, she came and sat in a small park, where small children were playing, some were enjoying the swings, some were walking holding their parents' hands. The weather was nice; in the evening, there was a slight coolness in the air.



    To be continued*****

  • 5. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 5

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    Mriganshi walked a little further and sat down in a small park in the middle. Small children were playing there; some were enjoying the swings, some were walking hand in hand with their parents. The weather was pleasant; there was a slight coolness in the air in the evening.



    Mriganshi said in a pensive mood, "Speak... what do you want to say?"



    Dhaval said, "Tell me about managing these rupees... money is dirt on my hands... as soon as a little accumulates, I quickly get rid of this dirt!"



    Mriganshi said, "Hmmmm! It seems there's no one to pull your ears at home, otherwise this situation wouldn't have arisen today!"



    Hearing Mriganshi's words, Dhaval remembered his father's words and said angrily, "There isn't!"



    Looking at the suddenly strong wind, Mriganshi said, "Let's go home."



    Mriganshi's phone also rang. Looking around, the hustle and bustle of people intensified. Children started going home with their parents. Picking up the phone, Mriganshi said, "Hello Mummy, I'm coming!"



    Mayuri said, "Beta, come quickly... the weather department's advisory has been issued!"



    Mriganshi quickened her pace while talking. "Yes Mamma... has Papa arrived?"



    Mayuri said, "He just arrived! Come quickly!"



    After Mriganshi said bye and hung up, Dhaval was seen going in the opposite direction. She ran to him and asked loudly, "Where is your house?"



    About half an hour or forty minutes away...



    Mriganshi grabbed Dhaval's hand and started running towards her house. "Are you out of your mind... with such strong winds... you'll cover a forty-minute distance... Now run!"



    As they were running, the wind became so strong that it felt like they would both fly away together. Mriganshi's house wasn't far, so she had asked Dhaval to walk.



    They somehow managed to reach home, but there Mayuri was looking at Mriganshi with displeasure. Pulling Mriganshi's ear, Mayuri said, "How many times have I told you... come home on time! You don't listen..."



    Karan came closer and said, "Mayuri, leave her, she's a child... it happens sometimes..."



    "Her 'sometimes' also brings a storm with it!" Mayuri's voice choked up.



    Mriganshi, understanding Mayuri's emotions, moved to hug her, but Mayuri warned, "Don't come near now... no, I'll really slap you..."



    Her eyes welled up as she said this. Karan embraced her and said, "I can come, right..."



    Mayuri smiled in pain and said, "It's a conspiracy between father and daughter!... Whomever I get angry with... you both stand up for each other... If I had a son, he wouldn't let either of you get your way!"



    Karan's phone rang. Seeing Vedank's name, he smiled. "Here, your Kunwar Sa has arrived!"



    Karan put the phone on speaker. "Hi Dad..."



    Before anyone else could speak, Mayuri said with displeasure, "Vedank?"



    Vedank laughed and said, "Papa-Mummy, Good Evening..."



    Karan said, "Your mother is angry... placate her..."



    Mayuri glared at Karan. Vedank said, "You must have annoyed my mother... since she's left alone without me!... Now she can't face your team alone, can she..."



    Mriganshi said, "Mommy's mosquitoes should listen to the whole thing... then say something..."



    Vedank said, "My mother can never be wrong..."



    Mriganshi teased, "If you're so concerned, why don't you come..."



    Vedank said, "Now all of you come... Abhyuday Bhai's engagement is fixed... the girl is a software engineer..."



    Mriganshi said, "First listen to me, where did you jump into the sweets!"



    Vedank said, "Okay, tell me..."



    Mriganshi was about to tell Dhaval's story when the phone call cut off, and she remembered that Dhaval was standing in the gallery outside! She smacked her head and quickly came out and brought Dhaval, who was drenched from the water sprays, inside.



    Both Mayuri and Karan were surprised. Karan came forward and said, "Mrug, he came with you!"



    Dhaval interjected, "Consider me your son... please don't do these formalities..."



    Karan said with a smile, "Okay... come inside, change... you'll fall sick..."



    Dhaval said in surprise, "But Sir..."



    Karan said, "My son is as tall as you... wear his clothes!"



    "Mayuri, give Vedank's dress and show him his room, let him change!" Karan said.



    Nodding, Mayuri went to Vedank's room, took out his dress, and handed it over, then called them for dinner. Dhaval felt strange, but he also felt the warmth of Karan and Mayuri's affection after coming here.



    After a while, everyone ate dinner. Mriganshi was engrossed in her conversations, discussing something or other with Karan. Dhaval ate good food after so many days. He was bored of making and eating noodles in the morning and evening.



    Dhaval thanked Mriganshi in his mind. Mayuri, extending a roti towards his plate, said, "Don't be shy, have another one..."



    Before Dhaval could refuse, Mayuri placed a roti on his plate. Karan asked, "Didn't you like the food? Today's meal is purely Sattvic..."



    "No, Uncle, it's good!" Dhaval said with his head bowed.



    Mriganshi had finished her meal, while Karan was eating. Mayuri was discouraging him from talking while eating. Everyone finished their food and came out to survey the weather from the hall. Strong winds were blowing with the rain. Perhaps the weather was not in a mood to improve yet.



    Mriganshi had brought a Ludo game on her mobile. She used to play it with Vedank too. No matter how tired Karan was, he never missed this moment. It was his family time. Just by observing the culture here, he had made his routine so that Indian values would remain and children would stay connected to them.



    Mriganshi asked Dhaval to come too, but he made an excuse of tiredness and came to Vedank's room. The noise from Mriganshi and Karan didn't let him sleep. He wasn't feeling sleepy in an unfamiliar place anyway.



    To be continued...

  • 6. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 6

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    Mrigashi asked Dhaval to come too, but he made an excuse of tiredness and came to Vedank's room! Mrigashi and Karan's noise wouldn't let him sleep! He wasn't getting sleep in an unfamiliar place anyway!



    When Mrigashi came into the room late at night, Dhaval was standing there with his hands in his pockets, looking out the window! Mrigashi was surprised to see him! She closed the door and asked, "What are you doing here?? And how did you know this was my room?"



    Dhaval glanced at her and turned back, saying, "Anyone blind could tell this is your room just by looking at it!"



    Mrigashi was taken aback and said, "Meaning???"



    Dhaval said without emotion, "These big bears seem to be fulfilling the need for a boyfriend!"



    "They are teddy bears... that's their name," Mrigashi said irritably.



    Dhaval bared his teeth and said, "For people like us, they are bears!"



    Mrigashi said, placing her teddy on the bed, "No comments..."



    Dhaval surrendered with his hands up! Mrigashi walked over to Dhaval and stood beside him, saying, "Speak... what do you want to say and then go to your room! Mom will bring milk!"



    Dhaval said, "Oh, the management guru... just how to manage a small budget..."



    Mrigashi was astonished and said, "Meaning???"



    Just as Dhaval was about to say something, there was a knock on his room door! Mrigashi, shocked, said, "Mom is here so soon... you hide... go quickly..."



    Mrigashi said, "I, Mommy..."



    Dhaval didn't understand anything. He covered himself with a blanket on the bed and put the teddy bear on the floor. Mrigashi turned off the light, opened the door, and said, "Mommy..."



    Seeing the jug and glass in Mayuri's hand, Mrigashi put her hand on her forehead and said, "Give them..."



    Mayuri said, handing over the jug, "You forgot, didn't you..."



    Seeing the room light off, Mayuri said, "Don't fall asleep... I'm bringing milk! It seems Dhaval has fallen asleep... should I knock once to check???"



    When Mrigashi heard this, she put down the jug and quickly followed her and said, "Mom, I'll help!"



    Mayuri said, "You're sleeping, aren't you... go to sleep..."



    Mrigashi said while walking along, "You want to drink milk, right... you forgot so quickly!"



    Mrigashi took the jug and quickly placed it in Vedank's room for Dhaval! Running back downstairs, she saw Karan standing in the kitchen.



    Mrigashi said, "Papa, good night..."



    Karan pulled her into his arms from the side, kissed her forehead, and said, "Good night, daughter..."



    Mrigashi smiled and left with the tray of milk glasses. She closed the room, turned on the zero-power light, and softly said, "Dhaval, wake up, take your glass of milk and go to your room. Go, go, gone..."



    When there was no response from Dhaval, she looked around! Her eyebrows furrowed as her gaze fell on the bed. When she came near him, she removed the blanket and saw that Dhaval was sleeping soundly, breathing deeply. He had fallen asleep...



    Mrigashi said in surprise, "How can anyone fall asleep so quickly!"



    Mrigashi stood near the glass window, caught in a dilemma whether to wake Dhaval or not while drinking milk. According to Mayuri, one shouldn't wake someone who is asleep. If she didn't wake this Kumbhakarna, she would fall under suspicion without reason.



    Mrigashi placed the empty glass on the table and said, "Dhaval, wake up... go to your room..."



    Dhaval had fallen into a deep sleep. "Dhaval, wake up... Dhaval..."



    Poor Mrigashi couldn't even wake him by speaking loudly. She reached out to wake him but pulled her hand back. However, she had to wake Dhaval!



    Gathering courage, Mrigashi came closer, held his shoulder, and shook him, saying, "Dhaval... Dhaval, wake up..." Not even a fly buzzed in Dhaval's ear! She spoke to herself, "How will this tall, mustachioed person move! Water... no... he'll scream loudly... If I push him down, maybe he'll move, but how?... What to do?... What to do?..."



    For a moment, a tired person just falls into a deep sleep. Dhaval was in the same state. Dhaval didn't budge. Instead of speaking, Mrigashi shook him with both hands. This time Dhaval moved but was still asleep. He grabbed Mrigashi's hands and pulled, saying, "Man, what's the rush to wake up... you sleep too... let me sleep for a while..."



    Mrigashi froze and said, "He's treated this as his own room... sold everything and is sleeping like a beggar..."



    Mrigashi started trying to free her hands. When he wouldn't let go, she got angry and, in anger, bit his shoulder. Dhaval screamed loudly in his sleep, and he released Mrigashi's hand to grab his shoulder. Then she put her hand on his mouth.



    Dhaval was staring at Mrigashi with wide eyes. Mrigashi didn't understand why he was shocked. She blinked a couple of times. Then he sat up abruptly, and as he did, Mrigashi fell into his lap. Seeing her situation, Mrigashi jumped up, stood on the floor, and said, "Who sleeps like this, especially in someone else's place..."



    Dhaval said, "Sorry, man... this is the first time it's happened..."



    Mrigashi started staring at him. Dhaval was about to get up but suddenly clutched his shoulder in pain. Mrigashi came closer and said, "What happened???"



    Dhaval closed his eyes and said, "I don't know..."



    When Mrigashi carefully looked at his hand and shoulder, she hit her head. Just then, Dhaval took off Vedank's t-shirt and started looking at his shoulder. Mrigashi was about to scream but closed her eyes and covered her mouth with her hand.



    Dhaval touched it and saw that a little blood was coming out. Looking at Mrigashi, he said, "What happened??? Why did you close your eyes like that! Bring the first aid box... blood is coming out, and I can't even see clearly whose it is..."



    Mrigashi still hadn't opened her eyes. Dhaval said, "Hey, you're still in meditation, get up and bring the first aid box!"



    Mrigashi said, "Put on a t-shirt first!"



    Dhaval said in amazement, "Oh man, look, it's hurting... I can't tolerate a small scratch, and you're making me wait so long!"



    As Mrigashi walked away with her eyes closed, she hit her head on the cupboard. Dhaval got up and quickly went to her, removed Mrigashi's hand from her forehead, and started blowing on it.



    To be continued*****

  • 7. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 7

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    Mriganshi closed her eyes and walked forward and bumped into the wardrobe! Dhaval got up and rushed to her and removed his hand from her forehead and blew on it.



    Mriganshi's eyes were closed. Unknowingly, her hand moved to Dhaval's shoulder! Dhaval screamed loudly. When Mriganshi's eyes opened, she covered her mouth with her hand.



    Mriganshi said angrily, "Are you mad? You will really kill me!"



    Dhaval removed her hand from his shoulder and said, "You also put your hand on my injured spot!"



    "No, you fragile flower, you delicate bud, you young girl... Oh! You only got a small bite! A wound like a monkey's, which you keep scratching all day!" Mriganshi started walking away.



    Dhaval caught her hand and pulled her back. "I don't bear pain, understand? And in the dark, it will happen again, be careful..."



    Mriganshi stretched out her hand and turned on the dim light and took out two band-aids from the first-aid box. Dhaval, without a T-shirt, made her close her eyes and she moved slowly. Dhaval said, "Open your eyes, you will get hurt again!"



    "First, you wear a T-shirt, and I don't fear the injury!"



    "Yes, I will put a band-aid over the T-shirt, it will be done and my wound will be cured!"



    "I won't put a band-aid on!"



    Dhaval came to her in pain and anger, took the band-aid, and said, "Let me get it done by your parents!"



    Mriganshi snatched the band-aid and started putting it on his shoulder. Her fingers were trembling. Pushing Dhaval towards the door, she said, "Let's go, get out of here..."



    Dhaval said, "At least let me wear a T-shirt!"



    Mriganshi ran to the bed and threw Dhaval's T-shirt at him.



    In the morning, the sounds of Aarti and bells in the house fell into Dhaval's ears, and he covered his ears with a pillow. A little later, he opened his sleepy eyes and saw that he was not in a temple. He opened his sleepy eyes and saw that he was at home and lay down again.



    Some time later, Mriganshi came with a plate of Aarti and woke Dhaval up while chanting.



    "Shantakaram Bhujangashayanam Padmanabham Suresham,

    Vishvadharam Gagan Sadrsyam Meghavarnam Shubhangam,

    Lakshmikantam Kamalanayanam Yogibhir Dhyanagamyam,

    Vande Vishnum Bhavabhayarham Sarvalokeknatam."



    "Good morning, Dhaval... Get up, Dhaval." She was spreading incense in the room.



    Dhaval was still lying down. He was amazed by Mriganshi, who was chanting and spreading incense. He was wearing a dark green kurti, orange salwar, and a dupatta of the same colors with a chunari print. Her hair was tied.



    "Mriganshi, Indian avatar... Good looking... So nice." He said while wearing a T-shirt.



    Mriganshi, while chanting, showed her eyes. "What are you doing? Are you showing wife-like attitude?..."



    She looked at Dhaval in surprise and went to the other room. After some time, she came with tea. Mriganshi kept the tea on the side table and caught Dhaval's ear and said, "Say now, what were you saying... like a wife! Thank God, I am not your wife! Otherwise, I would have been ready with you in Puja... Hurry up... Go and freshen up..."



    Dhaval's ears turned red and hurt, but he didn't say anything. Mriganshi kept teasing him, calling him names like a fragile flower, a delicate bud, a young girl.



    Mriganshi said, "The breakfast is ready, come quickly..."



    Dhaval stood up from the bed. "Mriganshi, you really look beautiful!"



    "Mriganshi's virtues are being praised, and the tea is getting cold!"



    Dhaval said, "First, you praise me, and then you taunt me..."



    Mriganshi said, "I don't need praise..."



    Mriganshi came down and started helping Mayuri, and at the same time, she was persuading her to go to the beach, but Mayuri was not ready.



    Seeing Karan standing behind, Mriganshi made a crying face. Karan signaled her to go out. Mriganshi came to her room and sat on the bed with her hands between her face.



    While making rotis, Mayuri was caught by Mriganshi from behind and said, "Mayuri..."



    Mayuri jumped back and said, "Move away, Mriganshi will come!"



    Karan said, "No, listen to me first..."



    Mayuri turned on the induction and said, "Say it..."



    Karan said, "Let her go... Please... We will shift there again... No need to come here... She is a kid..."



    Mayuri asked, "Is that why you are showering so much love?"



    "Love can rain without reason." He emphasized the word love.



    Mayuri sternly looked at him, but Karan kissed her cheek and left! Mayuri remained standing in astonishment!



    Mriganshi was sitting in turmoil when Dhaval came.



    "Why are you sitting like you are mourning? As if you are at someone's funeral..."



    Mriganshi said irritatedly, "Yes, in the funeral of my desires..."



    Dhaval said innocently, "What are you saying..."



    Mriganshi pouted and said, "I want to go to the beach, but mom..."



    Dhaval pulled her cheek and said, "So cute and innocent..."



    Mriganshi pushed his hand away and said, "Leave cute and innocent..."



    Dhaval explained to her, "Why are you tensing up? Let's go today on the bike... We will return by night..."



    "I want to spend the whole day..."



    Dhaval looked at her and said, "So what's the big deal?"



    Mriganshi said, "Only if mom agrees..."



    Dhaval stood up and said, rubbing his forehead, "Everyone has a villain in their life, for some, it's mom... For some, it's dad..."



    Mriganshi glared at him. Just then, Karan came. "Mriganshi, done..."



    Mriganshi jumped up happily and hugged Karan. "Thank you... Thank you... Thank you... Dad, I am so lucky..."



    Karan stroked her hair and kissed her. "Now make plans quickly!... Otherwise, you know Mayuri!..."



    Dhaval kept watching the love between father and daughter. "Uncle, I was also saying the same, let's go on the bike!..."



    Karan looked surprised at Mriganshi and said, "You were going with your friends, right?"



    "Dad, he is just saying that, my plan is the same!" Mriganshi clarified.



    Karan said, "Let's go down... The breakfast is ready..."



    After Mriganshi left, Karan said to Dhaval, "You also come..."



    Dhaval shook his head and followed Karan.



    To be continued...

  • 8. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 8

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    Dhaval shook his head and followed Karan.



    Mriganshi came down and hugged Mayuri. "Thanks, Mom..."



    Mayuri said indignantly, "Don't act. You two father and daughter just don't understand..."



    Mriganshi moved away and sat on the chair, saying, "Sorry! I'm not going..."



    Karan came down with Dhaval. Seeing Mriganshi quietly having breakfast, Karan said, "Mayuri, don't be a coward like yourself! Let her go... Only by going out into the world will she understand people's eyes and perspectives!"



    Mayuri said, "Okay, where am I stopping you..."



    Mriganshi chirped, "Can I talk to Nicole and everyone else?"



    Mayuri agreed with a smile. Mriganshi quickly finished breakfast. Dhaval was observing everyone while eating. Vedank called Karan. Today he was going to fight his first case, so he called to take blessings from Mayuri and Karan. Karan blessed him with "Vijayi Bhav" (May you be victorious), and Mayuri prayed for her son to be a capable and honest lawyer. After talking to Mriganshi for a few minutes, he promised to talk again at night and hung up.



    Karan left for the office. Mayuri was talking to Dhaval when Mriganshi came in wearing jeans and a t-shirt and asked Dhaval to go. Mayuri gave Dhaval a tiffin and a packet. The tiffin had laddoos, and the packet had bhujia.



    Both left the house and came to S Miami Ave (Main Road). Dhaval asked, "How will you go to South Beach?"



    Mriganshi said, "Oh man! Why else am I taking the bike!"



    Someone waved hello to Mriganshi. After talking for a few minutes, the boy hugged her. Dhaval found it strange. As soon as the boy left, Dhaval complained, "The other day you were saying you don't let any boy touch you..."



    Mriganshi looked at him in surprise. Dhaval shrugged and raised his eyebrows. "You hug them directly..."



    Mriganshi slapped his shoulder and said, "He's my neighbor... and he knows me... It's normal for them, they don't have any inferiority complex... like 'Namaste' for us... Understood..."



    Dhaval started rubbing his shoulder. Seeing him rubbing his shoulder, Mriganshi smiled and said, "Haseena Bano..."



    Hearing this, Dhaval also smiled. After walking with Dhaval for ten to fifteen minutes, Mriganshi said goodbye at a turn. From here, Mriganshi had to go to Nicole's house. Dhaval also went his way.



    For some reason, he had come a little ahead of Mriganshi's house with her. Perhaps he had started liking her company. It was a connection to his motherland. Anyway, on foreign soil, anyone from your motherland feels like your own.



    Dhaval had started liking Mriganshi. Thinking of Mriganshi, Dhaval smiled to himself. When he came to his room and opened the tiffin and packet, he was happy to see the laddoos and bhujia. He wouldn't have to eat noodles for three-four days!



    At the dinner table that night, Mayuri said, "Mrig, Maa Sa Hukum has chosen Dushyant for you!"



    Mriganshi started coughing. Both Karan and Mayuri offered her a glass of water.



    Karan said, "This conversation could have happened later! Maybe someone would like this topic..."



    Mayuri said, looking at Karan, "Hukum is not wrong either... Mrig knows everything, yet..."



    Mriganshi drank the water and cleared her throat, saying, "Mama, so soon..."



    Mayuri said, "You know, you will turn twenty-four..."



    "When I turn twenty-four, grab someone and tie them down! That's what you want to say!" Mriganshi's voice was loud.



    Karan looked at her intently and said, "Mriganshi..."



    Mriganshi noticed the displeasure in his tone.



    Mriganshi said softly, "I'm sorry..."



    She quietly started eating her food. Karan felt that Mayuri had also fallen silent. Mriganshi finished her meal and, speaking in a very cold tone as she went to her room, said, "Tell Maa Sa Hukum yes from my side!"



    Karan said, "Mriganshi, wait! It's not what you're thinking!"



    Karan, adhering to his habit of not leaving food, ate what was on his plate with a heavy heart. Karan left everything and followed Mriganshi. Mayuri collected the dishes and came towards Mrig's room. Karan was asking her to open the gate.



    Mriganshi slowly opened the gate and put her arms around both of them. Karan patted Mriganshi's back and said, "Dushyant is not mandatory! You know your Mama, right... Maa Sa Hukum just ordered, not that it must be followed!"



    Mriganshi moved away, wiping her tears, and said, "It's not about Dushyant! Who attacks so quickly... I've only turned twenty-four... I'm not getting old!"



    Mayuri said, "We are not in a hurry either... but Maa Sa Hukum said that Dushyant's grandmother wishes to see Dushyant married before she dies. That's why she's in a hurry... to get you engaged along with Abhyuday!"



    "Mama, will I get time to think, or not even that? Let me talk to him and understand his nature! Just this much..." Mriganshi said pleadingly.



    Karan brought her into the room and made her sit on the bed, saying, "There's no hurry... if you don't like him, refuse..."



    Mriganshi, happy, hugged him.



    Mayuri was startled. "Hukum..."



    Karan took Mayuri outside. The worried Mayuri started her work. Karan stood in front of Mayuri and said, "Don't worry, everything will be fine!"



    Mayuri nodded innocently with a smile. Karan felt immense love and hugged her.



    Mayuri tried to pull away and said, "Hukum, the kitchen is messy, let me clean it up..."



    Karan said playfully, "You can do it tomorrow..."



    Mayuri was surprised. "Hukum..."



    Karan held Mayuri to his chest. "Hmmmm..."



    Mayuri said, "Hukum, there's no room, and now the children have grown up!"



    Karan said, "Is love forbidden after children grow up..."



    Mayuri said nervously, "No... but..."



    Karan said, "Mayuri, you are crazy... you are on foreign land, where it's open..."



    Mayuri said, "Hukum, we are Indians! Who are given first priority to modesty and values, because of which we have a distinct identity in the whole world!"



    Karan shrugged and surrendered. Mayuri got back to her work. After some time, when she brought a jug of water and a glass of milk to Mriganshi's room, she saw that Mriganshi was already asleep.



    To be continued*****

  • 9. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 9

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    Karan shrugged and surrendered his weapons! Mayuri got back to her work. A little later, when she brought the water jug and milk glass to Mriganshi's room, she saw Mriganshi was asleep.



    Stroking the sleeping Mriganshi's head, she became emotional. Time flew as if with wings, and in the blink of an eye, the chubby Karan had grown up to be exactly like Mriganshi! A proposal had also come for her.



    Dhaval came to her during his ten-minute break after finishing his work. "Thanks..."



    A surprised Mriganshi looked at him. Dhaval said, "Tell auntie about the laddus..."



    With a cold response, Mriganshi replied, "Hmmm..."



    Seeing such a cold response, Dhaval said, "Hey, what happened??? Did auntie refuse to go to the beach again???"



    "No, but without a bike..." Mriganshi said.



    "Oh... just that! Do this, I'll drop you, and when you're done sightseeing, call me, or I'll be roaming around nearby. But yes, you'll have to pay for the fuel!" he said the last line with a wide smile.



    Mriganshi also smiled. "Yes, stick this with super glue..." making a smiley sign with her thumb and index finger.



    Mriganshi nodded with a smile. Dhaval kept looking at her, or rather, he was lost in her... who knows what he felt today! This art was inherited from Mayuri. Mriganshi didn't notice and quietly kept sipping her tea. Dhaval came to his senses when someone said, "Hello."



    "Why do I feel like... you are troubled..."



    "Nothing..."



    "Swear on me..."



    Mriganshi stood up in irritation. "Dhaval, what nonsense is this? Meaning, will everyone tell the truth only when sworn? If they lie, will you believe it to be true? Why, is that it? But if something happens to you after taking a false oath..."



    Dhaval calmed her down, saying, "Relax... nothing like that happens..."



    Mriganshi became even more agitated by Dhaval's words. Grabbing Dhaval's collar, Mriganshi said, "You're an angel, something will happen to you... right..."



    Everyone was looking at them. Dhaval had noticed. Just then, the owner arrived and misunderstood Dhaval. He pushed Dhaval and started scolding him in English. Mriganshi realized her words had been misunderstood. She intervened and defended Dhaval by calling him her best friend.



    Mriganshi sat down, holding her head. She apologized to Dhaval, but Dhaval got back to his work. Mriganshi felt guilty, and Dhaval seemed angry.



    When their shift ended, Mriganshi followed Dhaval, who was walking on the side of the road, and called out to him. But he walked ahead with long strides. Mriganshi ran after him, overtook him with a quick sprint, and stood in front of him, resting her hands on her knees and catching her breath. When she looked up, Dhaval was staring at her as if he could devour her.



    Mriganshi regained her breath and, holding her ears with both his hands, said, "I am very... very... very... very... sorry."



    Dhaval lowered his hands and put them in his pockets.



    "Now tell me, what's the matter???"



    "I got a call from Mom ordering me that they've found a boy for me. I was worried about just that."



    Dhaval's eyes widened as if something unbelievable had happened. He cupped his face in his hands and said, "Refuse it... and the final decision... say you don't want to get married yet..."



    Mriganshi was startled by his action and pulled her face away from his hands, saying, "It's not that easy in our case..."



    Dhaval said angrily, "Hey, you're not getting old anyway..."



    Mriganshi glared and said, "Dhaval, what kind of behavior is this???"



    Short temper was his weakness. He couldn't control himself in anger. When Mriganshi spoke, he realized what he had said in anger.



    "Sorry... I was just saying, how can you get married without knowing him???"



    Mriganshi said, "I haven't thought about it yet. I need some time... my elder brother's engagement is a few months away, let's see until then..."



    Dhaval said nothing. Mriganshi continued to talk, explaining everything. Dhaval became quiet.



    Seeing him quiet, Mriganshi said, "What happened, Dhaval??? Why are you quiet???"



    Dhaval said, "Nothing... I was just listening to you..."



    Mriganshi said, "What else will you listen to... Bye, see you tomorrow..."



    Dhaval remembered that her turn had come.



    "Listen... one day in life, such a turn will come, and you will leave me... right?" Saying this, Dhaval walked away.



    Mriganshi kept watching him... Dhaval's behavior seemed strange today! Mriganshi reached home, thinking.



    Mayuri came in ahead of her. "You're ten minutes late!"



    Mriganshi took off her shoes and said, "Dhaval started talking to me!"



    Mayuri asked, "What was he saying???"



    Mriganshi sat on the sofa and said, "Just like that..."



    Mayuri handed her a glass of water and asked, "Just like that what???"



    Mriganshi said impatiently, "Oh, Mama... what happened, he just talked!"



    Mayuri said, "Tea or coffee... it's not a problem, but if Dushyant doesn't like it..."



    Mriganshi, annoyed by Dushyant's name, said, "The final decision hasn't been made yet... Mom has only suggested it..."



    Mayuri said resentfully, "Mrug... when I've said it once, is repetition necessary???"



    Mriganshi, going to her room, said, "I don't want anything..."



    Mayuri kept calling after her. Mriganshi changed, took the water jug and glass, and sat down leaning against the bed.



    "Refuse it... and the final decision... say you don't want to get married yet..."



    Dhaval said angrily, "Hey, you're not getting old anyway..."



    "Sorry... I was just saying, how can you get married without knowing him???"



    "Listen... one day in life, such a turn will come, and you will leave me... right?"



    Dhaval's words echoed in Mriganshi's mind. There was passion in the way he looked into her eyes. Was Dhaval leaning towards her? Would their closeness become a problem for both of them?



    Dhaval must be stopped... his short temper indicated how possessive he was towards her! If this is true, then...



    She has chosen the wrong path.



    To be continued*****

  • 10. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 10

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    Dhaval must be stopped. His short temper indicated how possessive he was! If this is true…

    She has chosen the wrong path!

    Mriganshi, sitting with her face in her hands, thought she would talk to him tomorrow to clear everything up. Reining in her own thoughts, she said, "No, maybe I'm overthinking! Maybe he reacted by chance… I'll observe his behavior for a day or two… then I'll explain it to him…"

    Mriganshi said, "Good morning…"

    Dhaval ignored her, and his colleague said, "Have a nice day…"

    Dhaval went back to his work, ignoring her. Mriganshi felt bad. Mriganshi also got busy with her work, but her gaze was fixed on Dhaval.

    During tea time, Mriganshi asked, "Why are you ignoring me?"

    Dhaval said, putting his coffee mug to his lips, "You should stay away from me… your future husband will feel bad later…"

    Mriganshi said loudly, "Just shut up…"

    Everyone started looking at her. Mriganshi remembered yesterday's conversation and said, while explaining, "Guys, relax… just a normal conversation…"

    Mriganshi said in a low voice, "It's not what you are thinking… Dad has left the decision to me… understand something…"

    Just as cool raindrops on hot ground bring relief, so did expressions of happiness appear on Dhaval's face… which Mriganshi noticed, and her suspicion began to turn into certainty.

    Mriganshi messaged Mayuri and headed towards Nicole's house. Dhaval was also with her. As soon as Mriganshi introduced Dhaval, Nicole mentioned the final year results. All three started checking their results. Dhaval's result was around seventy-eight. The others in their group were around ninety.

    Mriganshi said, "I didn't think you would score so much!" Patting his back, she said, "Well done…"

    Dhaval glared. Nicole said, "Okay guys… let's have something sweet and fun…"

    Dhaval said, "Sure…"

    Nicole brought different chocolates. They started planning the beach program over coffee. Everyone except Nicole refused. Mriganshi and Nicole planned the beach program.

    "They are all deceitful… they had planned something that day, and today… disgusting… all four of them…"

    Dhaval, walking with her, said, "Stop it… everyone's tongue will be cut off… how will she manage the food…"

    Mriganshi, putting her hand on his shoulder, said, "Kayli has been there many times… Megan is lazy, so she is making an excuse!"

    "The same thing again… if you get stubborn, you'll just disappear… are the other two friends okay…"

    Mriganshi said, "Wow… days and nights will be spent on Mars…"

    Dhaval teased, "If you say yes to marriage… the honeymoon will be on Mars…"

    Mriganshi raised her hand to hit him, but it stopped midway because Dhaval had jerked away. "Hasina Bano!"

    Mriganshi laughed. "Don't dream… understand…"

    Dhaval bumped his shoulder against hers and said, "Tell me, Mars or Moon…"

    Mriganshi glared and said, "Aren't you getting a bit too open…"

    Dhaval playfully bumped his shoulder against hers. When Mriganshi pushed him, he fell onto the date palm tree and green grass beside him. Mriganshi, laughing and teasing, said, "Oh dear, Hasina Bano has fallen… are you hurt…"

    Dhaval smiled and asked for her help. Mriganshi also extended her hand, but firmly, in case Dhaval pulled her down while helping. Dhaval also got up holding her hand, but without letting go of her hand, he pulled her by the waist and fell backward. Mriganshi's heart pounded in her panic, and she closed her eyes. Before she could utter a word, both were on the grass.

    Mriganshi, lying on top of him, opened her eyes to see Dhaval comfortably watching her with both hands under his head. Mriganshi quickly got up and became displeased. "Dhaval! You are crazy! Your backbone could have been injured like this… and why are you laughing…"

    Dhaval stood up. "It's a habit…"

    Mriganshi, placing her hands on her waist and furrowing her brow, said, "How many girls have you made fall like this… yes… tell me…"

    Dhaval touched her nose with his finger and said, "I've found only one doe, but I practiced in college…"

    Mriganshi shook her head and walked ahead. As Dhaval came behind, Mriganshi said without turning, "Go now…"

    Dhaval said stubbornly, "No, I'm walking with you to the turn…"

    Mriganshi said, "What is this??? Who would say you are twenty-four… such childish stubbornness…"

    Dhaval said, "Wrong… not twenty-four, twenty-six…"

    Mriganshi said, "You are still in college… you should have settled down by now…"

    Dhaval said, "You make fun of everything I say, that's why I don't tell you the reason…"

    Mriganshi had found an opportunity, how could she let it go! She also enjoyed teasing Dhaval! Mriganshi held his arm and said, "Please… Dhaval, tell me… please… please…"

    Dhaval was happy with her speaking like that and holding his arm.

    "Okay, listen… my maternal and paternal grandfathers' love kept me pampered… dare anyone say anything, let alone look at me… when I was five, my paternal grandfather passed away, so I was two years late! And my maternal grandfather was busy with his work… one day, Dad dragged me to school! After that, this routine continued for a month… I used to flail and cry… but Dad stood firm like Ambuja Cement, just like in the ad where the other person's head breaks, I would get beaten up…" Dhaval shrugged and said, "This was my emotional story…"

    Mriganshi ran ahead and teased him, laughing loudly. Dhaval watched for a moment, then laughed and chased after the fleeing Mriganshi! By then, the turn to her house had arrived. Dhaval stopped, laughed at her mischief, and turned back.

    Mayuri and Karan were both happy with her result. Mayuri had made halwa for dessert. Their neighbors, Braden, his wife Daisy, and their two sons Ronan and Tim, liked the halwa. Mayuri also took some home to them.

    This was the only vegetarian family. Daisy welcomed Mayuri. She was alone at home; Braden had gone to work, and their two sons had gone to play. Mayuri talked for a while and then returned home.

    Mriganshi was packing her bag, which also contained a dress. Mayuri was giving her one instruction after another, and Karan, standing nearby, was smiling.

    Mriganshi said, "Dad, don't leave Mom alone for even a minute today… otherwise, I… by then I'll find out Mom is admitted to the hospital!"

    Mayuri glared at her, then Karan held Mayuri by the side and said, "Mayuri! Don't stress so much! Both kids are grown up now, let them be self-dependent!"

    Mayuri listened to Karan silently. Mriganshi bid goodbye to both and left for Nicole's house. Dhaval was standing at the turn with his bike. Mriganshi said in surprise, "What are you doing here?"

    Dhaval said, "You wanted to go on a bike, right, so I brought it!"

    Mriganshi said, "No, I'll go with Nicole!" Walking ahead…

    Dhaval said, riding his bike slowly alongside her, "Don't you feel like you've been avoiding me for some days… ignoring me… whenever I try to talk, you make an excuse to talk to someone else and leave?"

    Mriganshi said, "This is called overthinking, possessiveness."

    Dhaval said, "We'll find out soon, if you go with me, I'll believe I'm thinking wrong…"

    Mriganshi watched, caught in a dilemma…

    To be continued*****

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  • 11. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 11

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    Mrigashi watched the deer with consternation. For so many days, she had been indirectly ignoring Dhaval, making some excuse or another. But Dhaval had exposed her today, so she couldn't say anything to him.



    "Dhaval, it's nothing like that... you think too much," she tried to deflect.



    "Come on, do you think I'm five years old? You'll give me a rattle of fake talk and I'll believe it?"



    Mrigashi said, "No..."



    "No, then come, sit behind me... I can at least do that much. By the way, the auspicious time to get the bike has passed... have you canceled it?"



    Sitting behind, Mrigashi said, "Yes... elder brother's engagement is there, so I might have to go to India... it's not clear for now!"



    Shrugging his shoulders, Dhaval said, "It's okay... but man, I'll be alone..."



    "You come along too..."



    "Should I give the bike to someone else..."



    "Yes... but... stop the bike..."



    "But why?"



    "Dhaval, please..."



    Dhaval didn't melt at Mrigashi's 'please' as quickly as chocolate melts. Stopping the bike, Mrigashi asked Dhaval to get down. When Dhaval got down, she gave him her bag and sat in front to drive herself! Upon reaching Nicole's house, Dhaval was told to leave, but Nicole asked him to come along.



    Mayuri and Karan were both alone. Mayuri was freed from work early. Karan came near and said, "Don't take so much tension!"



    "Your wish... it happens on its own!"



    Turning Mayuri in front of him, Karan said, "Seeing our 'Hukum' in tension makes us tense!"



    Saying this, Karan kissed Mayuri's lips. Mayuri glared and said, "Hukum..."



    Placing his hand on Mayuri's shoulder, Karan said, "Tell me, Hukum..."



    "Oh Mrigashi, you're back..."



    Mayuri quickly turned and looked, there was no one there. Mayuri, looking annoyed, sat on the bed and said, "Lying again today..."



    Karan also came from the other side and sat on the bed, embracing Mayuri to his chest and thinking, "The first time when..."



    Mayuri said, "You know everything..."



    Flashback



    Karan carried Mayuri into the tent and made her sit on a flower-adorned bed, lifting her veil. He imprinted his love from her forehead to her lips. The music playing on the boat told the story of their sweet union. (AMBHT-35)



    When Karan and Mayuri returned to their room late at night, they overslept. The landline phone rang, and it was picked up with a sleepy hand.



    "Hello..."



    "Kunwar Sahib, bring Mayuri to the haveli..." Chhaya said.



    Mayuri, who was sleeping in his arms, also opened her eyes.



    Looking at Mayuri, Karan said, "Chachi Sahiba, Hukum has a fever! She won't come..."



    Mayuri's mouth remained open at Karan's lie.



    Chhaya said from behind the veil, "Which Kunwar Sahib?"



    Karan smiled and said, "Chachi Sahiba, Hukum... you understand... you handle everything there..."



    Chhaya made her face serious and hung up the phone. When Seema asked, the excuse of Mayuri's fever was given.



    Mayuri glared and said, "Since when did you start lying..."



    "Ever since I found the innocent Hukum..." saying this, Karan leaned over Mayuri. Mayuri also got lost in Karan.



    That evening, when she returned home, everyone asked about her health, and Mayuri felt shy. To avoid making Karan look bad, she cited her recovery.



    Ganga Devi specially called her and gave her a decoction made for Mayuri. Poor Mayuri, folding her hands and greeting everyone, came to them and was forced to drink the bitter decoction because of Karan. Ganga Devi was already mesmerized by Mayuri. Seeing her innocence, she became even more captivated...



    When Mayuri came with Karan, Seema Ji gave her good advice, and upon arriving home, she was cradled in her lap, symbolizing her fulfillment. Mayuri quietly nodded in agreement to their words.



    New land... new country... new people... Mayuri had some difficulty adjusting, and the food wasn't pure either!



    When Karan returned from the office, Mayuri was not feeling well. Her vomiting wouldn't stop. The non-vegetarian food being prepared in the adjacent flat was making it difficult for Mayuri to breathe! Karan, who had moved into the flat only a few months ago, started getting annoyed! He applied to the company for his own house.



    Remembering the story of the new house, both smiled.



    One day, as Karan returned from the office, Mayuri ran towards the washroom with her hand on her mouth. Karan threw his bag on the sofa, loosened his coat, and followed Mayuri. He supported Mayuri.



    "Mayuri, what happened?"



    "I don't know... there's no problem with other food here, yet..."



    "Must be food poisoning... let's go to the doctor..."



    Karan, looking worried, reached the doctor, and when he heard the doctor's words, his face lit up with joy and surprise! The doctor's words echoed in his ears!



    "Maybe she is pregnant... Come back tomorrow... We will start testing now..."



    Karan hugged Mayuri! Karan had called Seema Ji to take care of Mayuri! Although there was no problem, Karan didn't want to take any risks with Mayuri! In the midst of all this, the bond between Seema Ji and Mayuri became strong! At Mayuri's request, Karan also became normal!



    Two years after Mrigashi, Vedant arrived in their lives! Karan and Mayuri had spent a part of their lives happily, which they were recalling today in seclusion.



    Seeing Mrigashi's jeans, Nicole made a face and said, "Good... are you going to wear this on the beach?"



    Mrigashi smiled and said, "Two minutes..."



    She took out a dress from her bag, changed, and came out, and Dhaval kept looking at her! Dhaval saw this kind of dress for the first time today! It was a light pink short frock with maroon hearts on it!



    To be continued*****

  • 12. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 12

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    When she took the dress out of the bag and changed, Dhaval kept looking at her! She was wearing a light pink short frock with maroon hearts on it! Dhaval had never seen a dress like this before!



    Before this, he had seen her at his house at night in a white crop top and shorts with red flowers and green leaves! He had unknowingly touched her bare waist, after which she had jumped!



    Dhaval made a "wow" sign towards Mrigashi and said, "It's amazing..."



    Mrigashi said irritably, "No... it's mine..."



    Dhaval looked at her cluelessly! Mrigashi lightly hit him and said, "Girls don't wear amazing dresses... Haseena Bano..."



    Dhaval nodded his head, laughing at her demeanor!



    Nicole said in broken Hindi, "Haseena Bano..."



    Nicole had been taught Hindi by Mrigashi... she was also interested... she added an English touch to many words, like now...



    Dhaval glared at Mrigashi... Mrigashi teased him with a laugh...



    "Why didn't you tell me that day that she understands Hindi... not only understands, but can also speak it!"



    Mrigashi smiled and handed her bag and Nicole's bag to him, saying, "You don't get to see these expressions..."



    When Mrigashi sat behind Nicole, Dhaval was left stunned! Mrigashi looked back and laughed!



    Mrigashi looked happy, having fun with Nicole on the bike. South Beach is known for its bustling nightlife! It was also lively during the day. There were many celebrity chef restaurants here, from which the smell of food spread everywhere! Many chain stores and independent clothing shops (different from ordinary shops) in Lincoln Road Mall added to its charm! Ocean Drive is known for its preserved Art Deco style buildings. People sitting at the open-air cafes here were enjoying the clear views and the atmosphere! There is also the Wolfsonian-FIU Museum, which exhibits modern art and artifacts!



    There were also bars and clubs for colorful people! South Beach was suitable for nightlife and parties, while North Beach was ideal for those looking for a peaceful environment!



    Miami South Beach was getting crowded. Tourists would come on Sundays to escape the monotony of their routine! Mrigashi had also decided to make Sunday the best day of her life, which was coming true today! Karan and Mayuri had never let her come before! All her friends would praise the beach, so her heart would also yearn for it!



    Due to the sunshine, the three of them first visited the Botanical Garden, where the greenery was very soothing! Small wooden bridges... beautiful wooden sofa-like chairs to sit on... a large pond filled with water from a stream made of natural stones!



    A white horse that looked real! Red-orange fish in the pond... an eagle eating a snake on a stone! With "Peace" written on it! There was a long hand, and on its wrist, some people were carved with amazing craftsmanship!



    Miami Beach first had green grass and various types of trees and plants, which looked like a straight line from above, and beyond that, white sand... on that white sand, women in beach dresses having fun... there were men too... some children...



    Western civilization is like that, where everyone is lost in their own world!



    Everyone on the beach was absorbed in their own activities!



    Beach lounge chairs were set up on the sand, some under umbrellas! There were wooden hotels built in different designs and painted in vibrant colors. Food and drinks were available there!



    Dhaval teasingly said to Mrigashi, "Here, you are unfit among all these people..."



    She looked at Dhaval in surprise, so Dhaval gestured towards everyone's picnic dresses on the beach! Mrigashi, surprised, pouted again and said, "I really should be in that dress... why??? Nicole is also in a t-shirt and shorts..."



    Dhaval laughed at her reply! Mrigashi said, "Don't look at all of them..."



    "Just keep looking at you... right..." Dhaval said.



    Ignoring Dhaval, Mrigashi held Nicole's hand and went to enjoy the sea water! Dhaval stood there, took off his t-shirt, and started sunbathing on a lounge chair!



    After playing in the water for a while, they started playing with the sand! When both got hungry, they came to Dhaval for something to eat and drink and got cold drinks and snacks! Meanwhile, Mrigashi's phone rang. Patting Nicole's back, Mrigashi said, "Where is your phone???"



    Nicole shook her head regretfully and said, "It's in the bag, it seems to be switched off... and it's not charged either..."



    Mrigashi was about to hit her but clenched her fist and said through gritted teeth, "This is always your habit, that's why aunt always tells me to look after her phone, and today the same thing happened! Here, talk to them, it's their phone!"



    After talking for a while, Nicole started putting her scattered belongings in her bag. Along with this, Mrigashi asked her to keep things as needed but asked the surprised Nicole, "What happened???"



    Nicole said anxiously, "Grandmother has been ill for many days. Today she has been taken to the ICU! Mom has to go! You two take care of yourselves and go home on time!"



    Nicole turned to Dhaval and said, "You take care of him, he is your responsibility! Take care."



    Mrigashi's mood had soured! Just a little while ago, they had decided to leave late at night... she would capture the amazing sunset view with her pictures! What one thinks doesn't always happen!



    Saying goodbye to Nicole, she sat dejectedly on a chair. Dhaval said, "Enjoy... this all happens..."



    She rested her chin on her palm placed on her knees and said, "My mood is off!"



    Dhaval took her hand and brought her between the sea waves!



    "Tell me, do you want to go skiing... on a private yacht... or a cruise... where do you want to go..."



    Mrigashi was confused when Dhaval took her to play a flyboard game!



    Mrigashi said, "Dhaval, what are you doing..."



    "Flyboard game... see, after three to seven minutes of practice, you'll learn it yourself..."



    "No Dhaval... it's an elevated game... I'm scared!"



    "It's not too high, dear... try it... I'm also with you... it will feel like flying like a free bird..."



    Mrigashi agreed at Dhaval's urging and after getting ready in every way, Dhaval held her hand and the jet ski operator gave her a slight lift into the air! Holding Dhaval's hand, Mrigashi felt safe! Dhaval asked her with a gesture, and she became happy!



    While she was still training and lifted slightly, Dhaval let go of her hand! Fearful of falling, Mrigashi screamed in panic, "Dhaval, bring me down... please Dhaval, stop it... please..."



    Dhaval signaled to stop and quickly came to her and saw tears in her eyes from fear! Dhaval hugged her and said, "Relax..."



    Mrigashi also gripped his arm tightly with trembling hands. After a few minutes, she relaxed, and Dhaval gave her water!



    After that, Dhaval did not mention any water games! Mrigashi took pictures with the sunset... Dhaval was also with her! They just kept playing in the water and sand!



    Night was starting to fall! Dhaval brought her to Akash Miami Beach Hotel. Mrigashi was happy riding the bike!



    To be continued*****

  • 13. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 13

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    The night began to descend! Dhaval had brought her to the Sky Miami Beach Hotel. Mriganshi was happy while riding the bike. Indian food is available at this hotel, so he had come here. After eating from there, she started looking at the sparkle while walking on the main road!



    "Dhaval, it looks so beautiful at night... a colorful view..."



    "Hmmmm..."



    "Have you been here before?"



    "Yes, two or three times, or even more..."



    "That's why you know everything..."



    Dhaval said nothing, just kept walking behind her. Mriganshi stopped in front of a bar. Dhaval looked at her in astonishment.



    Dhaval said, holding her hand, "Let's go inside..."



    Mriganshi glared and said, "No..."



    "Then why did you stop here...?"



    "I have to come with my husband after marriage... so there are no regrets about anything going wrong..."



    "What if your husband doesn't fulfill your wish? ... You can try if you want... I'm here with you..."



    "When a girl loses her senses... men's intentions change... and what you are saying now... if you are dishonest..."



    "I swear... nothing like that will happen... I know Indian girls value their honor... but I haven't done anything like this yet... understood?"



    Mriganshi was in a dilemma. Dhaval said, "Let's go."



    Mriganshi said, "Just one glass..."



    Dhaval smiled and said, "One glass is enough for you..."



    The atmosphere of the bar was no secret. When influenced by Western civilization, colorfulness becomes apparent in the open! Mriganshi took a look and moved towards the counter. Dhaval followed her. Seeing the small wine glass, she said, "What is this? Give me a bigger glass..."



    Dhaval said, tapping her, "This isn't lemon juice..."



    As Dhaval was glancing at the wine rack in front, the waiter poured half of the big glass. Before the waiter could mix soda water, she gulped it down and made a strange face, saying, "Dhaval, it's so strong... so bitter..."



    Dhaval glared at the waiter and said, "Didn't I tell you to add more water and ice..."



    The waiter said, "They didn't let me do anything..."



    "Mix ice and water aside..."



    The waiter placed the glass in front of Mriganshi. Mriganshi said, "This is still not enough..."



    Dhaval said, "Let's go now..."



    Mriganshi said, "One more..."



    "No... never..."



    Mriganshi grabbed his arm and said, "Please... please... please..."



    Dhaval said angrily, "Firstly, don't say 'please' like that... and you are taking advantage... by making me swear..."



    Mriganshi gestured to the waiter, "One more..."



    When Dhaval gestured for a little, Mriganshi glared.



    Dhaval said, "Who will handle you after you get drunk..."



    "You... you made me swear..."



    Dhaval paid. By then, Mriganshi had come out and stopped in a spot. As soon as Dhaval came, she said, "What is this? Where is the intoxication... I'm feeling dizzy... or are you playing a trick on me... swaying here and there..."



    "Relax..."



    Dhaval held her hand and started walking. Mriganshi felt the earth spinning. She held Dhaval's arm and rested her head on his shoulder.



    "Dhaval, the earth spins... I know that today... the scientist's discovery is correct that the earth spins..."



    Mriganshi was getting drunk. The traffic rush had increased, so he was holding Mriganshi and heading towards Sky Miami Beach where his bike was parked. After explaining to Mriganshi, he quickly went to get the bike. By the time he returned, some boys had surrounded the drenched Mriganshi. Mriganshi was waving her hands in the air, telling them to stay away.



    Crying like a small child, she said, "Mriganshi... Dhaval, where are you? Dhaval, please... come..."



    Dhaval increased the speed of his bike and knocked one of them down with the bike. Crying, Mriganshi rushed towards Dhaval and hugged him. One of them said, "Who are you...?"



    "She is my wife... and it's a crime to tease my wife. Call the police..." He shouted angrily, punching a nearby boy. Those boys had run away. If it were daytime, they wouldn't have gone; at this time, police patrols increase, and the siren of police bikes could be heard intermittently. Dhaval would have come sooner, but seeing his mother's call on Mriganshi's vibrating mobile, he had started typing a message.



    Mriganshi sobbed like a small child and said, "They are very bad, Dhaval..."



    Dhaval held her in his arms and said, "Nothing has happened, I have beaten them all and chased them away... see, no one is here..."



    Mriganshi turned her neck and looked, no one was there. "Dhaval, you are the best..."



    Dhaval said, "Let's go..."



    Mriganshi nodded. Just as Dhaval started to move forward, she again started swaying under the colorful fountain. Dhaval looked back, Mriganshi was standing under the fountain, dancing. Dhaval got angry, but controlled himself and went to her.



    He took her hand, brought her to the side, brushed the hair from her eyes, and said, "You like me, don't you..."



    Mriganshi nodded her head quickly like a child!



    "Quickly sit behind me on the bike... you'll get chocolate when we get home!" Holding her hand, he brought her, and after Mriganshi kissed his cheek and sat behind him, Dhaval told her to hold him tightly. Mriganshi clasped her hands on his chest and rested her head on his back, closing her eyes.



    When she opened her eyes in the morning, Mriganshi, stretching, was surprised to see so much weight on her stomach. Feeling someone beside her, she quickly turned her neck and, unable to see his face, got up in a panic and looked at his face – it was Dhaval!



    "Dhaval, wake up... descendant of Kumbhakarna... where are we and..."



    Dhaval, still sleepy, said, "Don't hit me, man... let me sleep... and you are in my room!"



    Mriganshi's attention went to the large white shirt she was wearing. "Did you change my dress? And you with me..."



    Dhaval, lying on his side, became conscious, "What do you think!"



    Mriganshi, quite angry, started hitting him with a cushion, "Dhaval, you..."



    Dhaval stood on his knees on the bed beside her, held both her hands, and said, "Alexa, silence..."



    She looked at Dhaval for a few moments!



    Silences…



    Your and my silences



    Silences…



    Entwined silences



    Even the river water



    flows silently here



    In the bright moonlight



    lies a million silences



    "Dhaval, you're worried about singing... and here..."



    Dhaval put his arm around her waist, pulled her closer, and placed a finger on her lips!



    Where do the raindrops have a tongue?



    In burning hearts



    a silent smoke arises



    Silences are the sky



    Come fly for a bit



    Silences are feelings



    Do you feel them?



    Eager to speak



    Let them speak…



    Yes…



    She didn't know how long she kept looking into his eyes! Today, for the first time, she had seen him up close! Army cut hairstyle, clean-shaven from a bearded look... brown eyes shining like a cat's... a single diamond earring in one ear... he looked like a hero! Her hand on his chest could feel his heartbeat!



    Silences…



    Your and my silences



    Silences…



    Entwined silences



    Did you ever go down that street



    From which the world



    has passed an era



    My time



    is still stuck there



    Shall I tell you



    what happened to me?



    In a way, she was lost in him! Dhaval was mesmerized seeing Mriganshi like this! Her flying hair, lost eyes... her heartbeats changed their rhythm!



    Hmm…



    Silences are a tune



    Bring forth any melody



    Silences are words



    Hum along sometime



    Eager to speak



    Let them speak…



    Yes… Silences are voices



    Come listen sometime



    They will bloom when you touch them



    Call them home sometime



    Eager to speak



    Let them speak…



    Silences…



    Your and my silences



    Silences…



    Entwined silences



    Lost in each other, their breaths stopped! Seeing Mriganshi lost, Dhaval said, "You are in my eyes."



    By the time Mriganshi came to her senses, Dhaval had already tangled his fingers in her hair and pulled her closer! Mriganshi turned her face and said in a trembling voice, "Dhaval..."



    To be continued*****

  • 14. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 14

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    Mruganshi regained consciousness, and by then Dhaval had already pulled her close, his fingers tangled in her hair! Mruganshi turned her face and said in a trembling voice, "Dhaval..."



    "Dhaval, you didn't do anything..."



    "All boundaries have been crossed, last night..."



    Mruganshi's jaw tightened. She knew Dhaval's gaze was fixed on her! Mruganshi removed Dhaval's hand from her waist and said, "Dhaval, you took an oath, yet!"



    "Nothing is lost yet. You said if I were a husband... I am ready to be your husband!"



    Upon hearing him, Mruganshi turned her neck; her lips brushed against Dhaval's cheek! A strange stir arose in Mruganshi's heart! Mruganshi kept trying to pull away! Her courage faltered before Dhaval's strong grip!



    Dhaval turned his face; his lips were touching Mruganshi's lips! Mruganshi saw a pull in his eyes! Dhaval lifted her straight and took her to the bed! Mruganshi's mind was telling her to stay away from Dhaval, while her heart, compelled, made her go!



    The volcano of emotions had erupted! Dhaval couldn't stop himself; he was about to capture her lips when Mruganshi turned her face away! Dhaval's lips landed on Mruganshi's collarbone! Their breaths quickened with the closeness! As they both started forgetting themselves in the game of expressing emotions, Mruganshi opened her eyes; her mobile's flashlight was on! 'Mamma' was glowing!



    "Dhaval, Mamma..."



    Dhaval instantly moved away! Mruganshi, composing herself, dialed Mayuri.



    "Haven't you left Nicole's house yet? And why isn't Nicole's number connecting?"



    Hearing Mayuri, she was startled, "She... she... Mamma, I'm leaving now, I'll tell you everything in a few minutes!"



    Having said that, she hung up and looked at Dhaval, taking a deep breath. He was sitting by her knees, covering his face with both hands. She went and sat beside him, "Dhaval, say it's a lie."



    With a blank expression, he said, "If truth becomes falsehood by my saying so, then I will speak, but what about this heart... Hurry up, give me my shirt back, I only have one... All my clothes went to the laundry!"



    Mruganshi, with teary eyes and astonishment, went to change her clothes! When she came out, Dhaval was standing ready, wearing a t-shirt! Seeing his red eyes, she felt bad. Mruganshi moved forward.



    "Come, I'll drop you home..."



    "No need..." her voice was angry!



    "You're reacting as if it's all my fault..."



    Mruganshi turned and looked at him angrily, "You came close, you started it all... I, an innocent soul, became dishonest!" He emphasized the word 'dishonest'!



    Mruganshi, who had turned to leave, came back to Dhaval and, strangling him, said, "Dhaval, be quiet! I don't want to hear anything..."



    Dhaval quickly held her hands and hugged her! Mruganshi, once again, dove into the ocean of astonishment! Mruganshi's tears soaked his t-shirt!



    Dhaval said, "Nothing happened... I was just having fun!"



    When Mruganshi punched his back, Dhaval deliberately screamed! Mruganshi, wiping her tears, said, "Hasina Bano..."



    As Mruganshi walked ahead, Dhaval stopped her, "I don't know what you think about me, what you don't! But really, I love you... I will wait... for your answer... yes or no, anything..." saying this, he hugged her tightly! Mruganshi was shocked!



    "But Dhaval..." Mruganshi was consumed by restlessness!



    "You heard a lullaby and asked me to press your feet... I was forced to present myself in your service... and go check the message! You'll find out what I messaged Auntie!" Dhaval hid the fact of Mruganshi kissing him deeply. She had initiated it herself, and knowing this, she would feel guilty.



    When Mruganshi reached home, Mayuri was relieved to see her and started asking about her trip! Karan had already left for the office. Mayuri said, "Nicole's phone wasn't connecting. Did she forget her house again, or was it not charged?"



    "Mamma, don't you know her address??? Her grandmother is serious... For this too, her mother's phone came to me!" Mruganshi was checking messages as she went upstairs when she read Dhaval's message.



    "Oh, so when Nicole left, were you alone at her house??? Weren't you scared?"



    "No... I'll come after bathing... keep a good breakfast ready..."



    Mayuri said as she moved towards the kitchen, "Learn to make it yourself too, it will be useful..."



    Seeing no response, she said, "When will this girl learn... I don't know!"



    Mruganshi stood under the shower, thinking about Dhaval!



    "Is he really so innocent... No... not so soon, I don't believe it... How much do I even know him... Is he drowning in debt, not for a motive... a fraud! One wrong step... could ruin a life!"



    Dhaval's friends were talking on his phone!



    "Dhaval, should I tell your grandfather... if you say so, he's a seasoned politician... Oh, what will they do with so much property... tell me... college... school... medical college, land, property, and even an old mansion... a villa in Delhi... your grandfather's wasn't even counted!"



    Dhaval said, "Enough, everything is written in destiny... Why are you jealous, man..."



    "No, you would have been having fun with us right now..."



    "Let it go... Tomorrow I'm doing another part-time job. Then I'll come back soon!"



    He said bye and hung up the phone! Dhaval had accepted his love in front of Mruganshi! What if Mruganshi refused? Despite all the closeness, she hadn't protested! Now he wanted to go to India as soon as possible so he could tell his parents about Mruganshi!



    Dhaval applied for a second job, passed the interview, and joined. Now his focus was only on giving back the bracelet and the remaining money. He set limits on his expenses.



    To be continued*****

  • 15. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 15

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    Dhaval applied for a second job and passed the interview to join it! Now his focus was solely on the bracelet and paying off the remaining money! He set a limit on his expenses!



    One day, Dhaval gifted Mriganshi something! Mriganshi kept refusing... but Dhaval didn't budge... Mriganshi had to accept it! The boy who lived a life like a nawab had become completely ordinary. He was understanding the value of money earned through such hard work. Today, when he came to the mall to buy an expensive gift for Mriganshi... he first headed towards the jewelers!



    After selecting the gift, he checked his pockets and found himself empty-handed! Disappointed, he left and bought a cheap gift from a small store!



    The boy who used to splurge money with both hands now had to check his accounts to buy her a gift! He had to give a cheap gift! He reached his room, and anger took over his mind! His target was just his father!



    A little later, his phone rang; seeing Mriganshi's name, he calmed down!



    Mriganshi said, "Thanks... for the beautiful teddy bear..."



    Dhaval said, "Praise for the one who gave the teddy..."



    Mriganshi said, "Haseena Bano..."



    Dhaval made a face and said, "That's all I know..."



    Mriganshi laughed. Dhaval said, "Listen..."



    Mriganshi said, "Hmmmm..."



    Dhaval said, "Open the zipper behind the teddy..."



    Mriganshi said, "Why? There's cotton in there..."



    Dhaval said, "Dude, just do as I say..."



    Mriganshi said, "Okay baba... I'll see..."



    Mriganshi opened the zipper and saw a crystal heart with their picture in it! When she moved the heart from side to side, Mriganshi's picture would appear sometimes, and Dhaval's picture at other times! She was stunned to see this!



    Dhaval asked, "What happened??? Don't you like it..."



    Mriganshi said, "Wow, so amazing, Dhaval... I am impressed..."



    Dhaval asked, "By the gift or by the giver..."



    Mriganshi said restlessly, "Dhaval, so soon... I want to meet you first... I have some questions... some doubts... I need to clear them!"



    Dhaval said, "Come to the room..."



    Mriganshi said, "Dhaval..."



    Dhaval said, "I don't have that much money right now... and if nothing happens in a night, what will happen in an hour... or don't you trust yourself... maybe you'll get carried away seeing me..."



    Mriganshi said, "I'll see... Bye..."



    Dhaval asked, "Why the hurry..."



    Mriganshi said, "I'm feeling sleepy..."



    Dhaval said, "Liar..."



    Stammering, Mriganshi said, "Um... yes, Mom is calling..."



    Dhaval hung up the phone and said, "She can't even lie properly!"



    Mriganshi smiled, looking at the sky-blue teddy with a cap on its head and a muffler around its neck, hugged it to her chest, and closed her eyes. Dhaval, shirtless, sat on his room bed on his knees. When her hand was on Dhaval's chest... Dhaval's hands were on her waist... she was lost in him... "May all this not be wrong... should I talk to Dad? No, he'll leave it to me! Should I confess my feelings... then I'll see his reaction..."



    She kept muttering to herself, with her face in her hands, "Oh God! What should I do??? I don't understand anything!"



    Dhaval rarely got to meet Mriganshi! When they were together, he would steal a glance at Mriganshi, or they would talk during tea time with everyone else!



    Shirtless, wearing an apron, Dhaval was cutting onions on the kitchen cabinet, his eyes red, ready to water... he was drenched in sweat!



    The door to Dhaval's room opened; he saw Mriganshi and thought to himself, "Thanks, Harley..."



    Dhaval taunted, "The doe seems to have lost its way today... Madam has no time for duty here!"



    Closing the room door, Mriganshi said, "Shut up... Harley messaged asking for a favor because he has work next Sunday, so he's taking my place today... so I came here!"



    Dhaval said, "Hmmm..."



    After putting down her bag, Mriganshi looked at his condition, rolled up her shirt sleeves, and said, "Move over... Haseena Bano... what are you making?"



    Taking off his apron, Dhaval shrugged and said, "Don't know..."



    Mriganshi said in surprise, "Dhaval, you're really crazy... the whole room is a mess... and this kitchen is so small too..."



    Coming from behind and tying the apron, Dhaval said, "Doe, first make something nice and feed me... then say something... the kangaroos are jumping..."



    Looking at the onions, Mriganshi started cutting them and said, "You've cut such big pieces..."



    Before Mriganshi could say anything further, she trembled at his action! Dhaval pulled her from behind, hugged her, and wiped his sweat on both her cheeks! Mriganshi slowly closed her eyes and said, "Dhaval..."



    Dhaval removed her hand, still holding the onions, "Doe, you got so lost in me that you didn't pay attention to your finger!"



    Dhaval moved away! Mriganshi said irritably, "This is all because of you..."



    Dhaval said, "I didn't know my attendant had so much effect..."



    Mriganshi asked, "Shut up... what would you like to eat?"



    Dhaval said, "Whatever the doe feeds me with love..."



    Mriganshi stared at him and went back to her work! Dhaval lay on the bed and messaged Harley a thank you. Dhaval was using his mobile. When Mriganshi came out after finishing her kitchen work, she snatched the mobile from Dhaval and said, "Go... go take a bath..."



    Dhaval said, "Dhaval, let me eat something first... then..."



    Handing him a towel and removing the bedsheet, placing it aside, Mriganshi said, "No... never..."



    Dhaval walked around her, saying, "Take care of this hungry creature..."



    Pushing Dhaval towards the washroom, Mriganshi said, "Come on... go... first bathe... then eat..."



    After Dhaval went inside, Mriganshi started tidying his room. Opening the washroom door, Dhaval said, "Doe, you also got drenched in my sweat... your shirt is wet from behind... come join me..."



    She had the washroom towel in her hand while cleaning the table. Pretending to be angry, she acted like she was throwing the towel towards him, but Dhaval quickly closed the door! Mriganshi smiled and got back to her work... she cleaned the table, set things, put the shoes in the shoe rack... placed all the clothes in the laundry bag... and properly spread the bedsheet.



    Coming to the kitchen side, she opened the pressure cooker, checked the savory rice... checked the yogurt in the small fridge and went to buy it from the shop outside.



    Coming back into the room with the yogurt, Mriganshi said, "You really are Haseena... does it take so long to take a shower??"



    When Dhaval came out of the washroom, he saw her and quickly closed his eyes, saying, "Wake up, Dhaval, you're dreaming! She can't come here, hey, wake up! You are the one chasing her! You can never come into her dreams, and she has ruined your sleep!..."



    To be continued*****

  • 16. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 16

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    Dhaval came out of the washroom. He saw something and quickly closed his eyes. "Wake up, Dhaval! You're dreaming! She can't come here. Hey, wake up! ...You're chasing her! You can never enter her dreams, and she's ruined your sleep!..."



    Mriganshi called out, "Hey, where are you lost? Come quickly...."



    Dhaval came closer and sprinkled rain by shaking his wet hair with light fingers. Mriganshi rewarded him with a glance.



    Mriganshi brought rice with salt and yogurt to the bed. Dhaval brought a sauce bottle from behind. Mriganshi said irritably, "You're used to eating stale food..."



    Snatching the bottle from Dhaval, Mriganshi moved towards the kitchen cabinet. Dhaval said in surprise, "Hey... who will we eat with...."



    Mriganshi turned and said, "With yogurt...."



    Dhaval glanced at the plate and said, "Will it be good??"



    Mriganshi said, "Try a bite...."



    Dhaval started eating without any expression. Mriganshi stood watching him, expecting him to say something. Seeing him eat silently, she said, "What happened?? Didn't they turn out well that you're eating so silently??..."



    Dhaval took Mriganshi's hand, pulled her close, and offered her a spoonful. Mriganshi looked at him and opened her mouth. Mriganshi didn't react.



    After eating, Dhaval said, "Now they are good...."



    Mriganshi smiled and wanted to hit him, but sensing her intention, he moved away. Mriganshi held his arm and resting her head, said, "Dhaval, I've come to know something from you today!"



    Dhaval kept looking at her, engrossed in his food, "And you'll get it...."



    Mriganshi looked up and quickly brought the rice and yogurt! Mriganshi sat back down, twisting her fingers. Dhaval, ignoring her, was engrossed in his food. After many days, he got to eat something good!



    Dhaval put his plate in the sink, drank water, and came to her. Dhaval wiped his mouth with a napkin and said, "Now speak...."



    Mriganshi was thinking, looking at her twisting fingers. She came to her senses when Dhaval spoke. Seeing Dhaval sitting nearby, she hugged him! Dhaval was astonished!



    "There's a war between my mind and heart... whose advice should I listen to? Both are right in their place... or is the mind right, seeing what's happening in the world... what about the heart? It slips away at every turn..."



    Dhaval said seriously, "I know what it feels like..."



    "Hmmm," Mriganshi said.



    "Your heart is resting on a banana peel, which slips anywhere... anytime!"



    Mriganshi said emotionally, "Dhaval..."



    Dhaval embraced her from the side and said, "I don't do these dramatic scenes. I like you and I love you... it doesn't matter!"



    Mriganshi was surprised by his frankness. "Dhaval, these two words are not that easy. Are they for today or forever... if this is English love, then our paths are separate..."



    Dhaval interrupted, "If the culmination of love is marriage, then for that, we have to go to India!"



    "But Dhaval..."



    "Still 'but'..."



    "How will I explain to Mom... Dad will agree...."



    "There's a problem in your family. No father agrees, and you're saying your mother won't agree..."



    "Dhaval, you'll really get hit... Mom loves her family very much..."



    "I saw the bonding with Uncle... the love and understanding between them..."



    "Now you tell me... how can I stand against them!"



    "Can't you even talk once?" Dhaval's words were profound.



    "I can talk to Dad... not Mom...."



    Dhaval took Mriganshi's face in his hands and said, "If you can't say it, I'll come and talk..."



    Mriganshi kissed his cheek and hugged him, "Love you..."



    "Same to you..." Dhaval said, holding her in his arms.



    Mriganshi laughed at his humorous tone. Mriganshi said, "I'll talk to Dad!"



    Dhaval said, "If he doesn't agree, I'll elope with you...."



    Mriganshi said jokingly, "Have you got the guts?"



    "Don't even think of testing me, lest in clarifying misunderstandings..."



    Mriganshi put her finger on his mouth, telling him to be quiet! Dhaval held her face in his hands and gazed at her! Mriganshi was also lost in him!



    Their closeness was growing day by day! Both would come to the park after duty and sit there for a while talking! Mriganshi had indirectly tried to talk to Karan, but since Karan couldn't understand, she had advised him to act on his own discretion based on his results and experience!



    After so many days, the opportunity had arrived! Today, Mriganshi had decided to talk to Karan in the small lawn outside the house at night while strolling!



    Karan walked around with his hands behind his back and said, "Mriganshi... you want to say something, don't you..."



    "Yes... Dad, I... well... I wanted to talk about Dhaval!"



    "Yes, so speak, what happened?? Has he paid all the dues??"



    "No, I don't know about that..."



    "So is he going to India?"



    "No... no decision has been taken yet..."



    Karan's phone rang. After talking for a while, he left home in his car! He didn't tell anyone anything! He had said it was urgent work! He came back very late at night!



    Mriganshi had fallen asleep, and Mayuri, drowsy, waiting for Karan, had also fallen asleep on the sofa in the hall! When Karan asked Mayuri to go inside and sleep, he made an excuse about work when she asked!



    Sleep had vanished from Karan's eyes, and he kept tossing and turning! Restlessness had taken over... he got up, sat down, drank water, and started waiting for morning!



    To be continued*****

  • 17. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 17

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    Sleep had vanished from Karan's eyes; he was tossing and turning. Restlessness overwhelmed him. He sat up, drank some water, and began pacing, waiting for morning.



    He woke Mayuri early and asked her to pack. This was because Mayuri and Mriganshi were traveling on the same flight, while Karan had a different one. Karan's flight would arrive in eighteen hours, while Mayuri's would take twenty-one and a half.



    Karan told Mriganshi to get up and get ready. Stirred from her sleep, Mriganshi got up and asked why she needed to get ready so quickly. Karan explained that Baba Prithvisingh was unwell and had expressed a desire to meet them all. Karan had booked the tickets in an emergency the previous night. He told Mriganshi to pack her belongings and be ready to leave in an hour.



    Mriganshi was stunned by Karan's decision to leave but understood the necessity. She tried calling Dhaval, but his phone was switched off. After trying a couple of times, Mriganshi reluctantly hung up and started packing.



    Mayuri gave Mriganshi and Karan breakfast and checked all their luggage. Both picked up their phones and, with their bags, got into the car with Karan to head to the airport.



    Mriganshi thought of Dhaval the entire way.



    The previous night, while talking to his family on the phone, Dhaval had dropped his phone into the sink under the tap while washing dishes. It remained switched off until morning.



    Dhaval woke up in the morning and looked at his phone; he remembered it was broken. He was getting late for office, so he left without eating anything, taking his mobile with him.



    Today, Honor had sent Dhaval out for some work, so his mobile couldn't be fixed. When he gave the phone to the store, they asked for two days. Disheartened, Dhaval returned to his room. He couldn't even meet Mriganshi.



    He felt like meeting Mriganshi, but he turned back.



    At Delhi Airport, Abhyuday, the son of Uday and Abhidha, who was six months older than Mriganshi, came to pick them up.



    After him was Shur, the same age as Vedank, and Vaibhav, the elder son of Neha, while her younger daughter was Astha. Then there was Kavish, the elder son of Param and Shubhavali, and their youngest son, Bhavin. Everyone had their own families, yet they were upholding the tradition of a joint family.



    Abhyuday brought them to his villa in Delhi, where Ajay Singh and Preeti were eagerly waiting. After arriving home, Abhyuday asked his elder aunt (Mayuri) and Mriganshi how they were doing and then went to the hospital. Mayuri took blessings from Ajay Singh and Preeti and headed to her room, where Preeti had kept her luggage.



    Mriganshi also met her paternal uncle and aunt affectionately and came to her room. Exhausted, she freshened up and went straight to sleep, waking up the next morning. When she came downstairs, no one was home except Vedank. After meeting Vedank, she got ready and went with him to the hospital, where her grandfather's condition was stable.



    As soon as Mriganshi arrived in India, her SIM card was changed. On the other side, Dhaval had to arrange for another phone. As soon as he got a phone in his hand, he first dialed Mriganshi's number. He tried calling Mriganshi's number repeatedly but gave up. Finally, in defeat, he headed to her house; he was surprised to see it locked. He asked the people around, but they also denied knowing anything about it.



    Dhaval returned to his room, looking troubled. Dhaval was also angry that if Mriganshi had gone to India, she hadn't informed him even once, nor had she called. Now, he was consumed by the urge to go to India.



    Mriganshi was also restless. Her grandfather Prithvisingh's health began to improve. Mayuri, Mriganshi, and Karan met Prithvisingh and returned to their city, and everyone was happy to see them. Seema Ji couldn't take her eyes off Mriganshi.



    Mriganshi mingled with everyone, but at night, she would look at Dhaval's photo. She had tried to contact him once or twice after arriving here, but it didn't work.



    Prithvisingh returned home after ten days of treatment in Delhi, but with many instructions.



    Vedank also came home with Karan and Mayuri. Seeing the entire family together, Prithvisingh and all the brothers were happy. Meanwhile, Prithvisingh brought up the topic of Abhyuday's engagement and wedding. Everyone agreed.



    Karan and Mayuri were also present; they took advantage of this opportunity. Both the occasion and the custom were fitting. As soon as the program was decided, everyone got busy with preparations. Preparations for shopping and decoration. Invitations to family, including the families of Deepika, Janhavi, and Avani, who were already expected. Mriganshi went out for shopping in Delhi with her siblings.



    Seema Ji, Chhaya, Preeti, Shaili, and Mayuri were sitting together when Chhaya again brought up Dushyant's proposal for Mriganshi. Seema Ji discussed Dushyant and Mriganshi's relationship in front of Karan, Prithvisingh, and all other members. She suggested having Mriganshi's engagement ceremony along with Abhyuday's engagement.



    Dushyant had studied while living with Abhyuday, and he used to visit the family. Dushyant was the only son of Chhaya's nephew. He also had a special affection for Chhaya.



    Karan put a hold on the proposal until Mriganshi agreed. There was also a disagreement with Seema Ji, as, according to her, the decisions of the elders of the family were final.



    Continued*****

  • 18. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 18

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    Karan put a stop to this proposal until Mriganshi agreed. There was also a disagreement with Seema ji, as in her opinion, the decisions of the elders of the family were final.



    Mriganshi was happy shopping with Aastha. Aastha, her younger sister and friend, met after so many years! Everyone returned home late in the evening. After coming here, Mriganshi would get tired of having fun with everyone; sometimes all the siblings would tease her about the way she spoke Hindi, about her English touch.



    Lying on the bed with her legs dangling, tossing and turning, Mriganshi fell asleep in her exhaustion. When Mayuri came into her room, seeing her lying down, she caressed her hair and gazed at her lovingly. Today Mayuri felt a surge of love for her daughter. She thought, "What happened to her, she will not let happen to her own daughter!" Suddenly, the image of Jay and Anjana, along with their son in her lap, flashed before her eyes. Pushing away the past, she smiled to herself, remembering Karan. She also remembered that Karan was hungry and had asked for food.



    Covering Mriganshi with a blanket and coming downstairs, she saw Aastha talking to everyone and showing off their new dresses. Aastha gathered all the shopping and brought it into her room. Seeing Mriganshi asleep, she came back downstairs. After some time, when Karan went to call Mriganshi, not seeing her at the dining table, Aastha stopped him.



    "Big Papa is sleeping..."



    Karan returned to eating and started talking to everyone. After some time, when Mriganshi's eyes opened, she was surprised to see the blanket on herself and hugged the shirt she held in her hand, which she had bought for Dhaval. It was a maroon floral printed shirt in white. Nowadays, Dhaval would appear before her occasionally; she would get lost in his memories while sitting. Standing up, she kissed the shirt, looking at it carefully. Then, placing the shirt in her wardrobe, she drank a glass of water.



    Just then, the room door opened, and Karan entered with food.



    Mriganshi said in surprise, "Papa, I would have come down, why did you bring it?"



    Karan, walking towards the sofa, said, "Can't I do this much for my daughter?"



    Mriganshi sat on the sofa and said, "You are my pillar of support, Papa, I love eating food from your hands!"



    Karan mixed the dal and rice and brought a spoonful towards her mouth. While eating, Mriganshi started telling Karan about her shopping in Delhi and also about the Lotus Temple. Due to lack of time, she could only see that.



    Abhyuday had promised to show her around Delhi after the function. Mayuri came into Mriganshi's room and said angrily, "She has become old enough for marriage... should be cooking! She is eating food like a pampered child!"



    Karan said with a smile, "That's why I was feeding her... Who will feed her there... She won't even be able to ask anyone to feed her today..."



    Seeing the mood changing, Mriganshi said, "Mummy, you too... you made Papa emotional! Come on! Papa, we will talk outside!"



    Mayuri stared with wide eyes in surprise. Both father and daughter went outside.



    Walking around the lawn area, Karan said, "Mrig, Maa Sahab and Baba Sahab have once again approved your proposal in Dushyant's name. They have all seen Dushyant and grown up studying with Abhyuday. I have stopped them to know your opinion..."



    He looked carefully at Mriganshi, who was standing stiffly. Seeing her, Karan said, "Mriganshi, think carefully and give your decision. If there is anyone, you can tell me about them too."



    Mriganshi felt relieved hearing Karan's words. She took Karan's mobile, said she would reply in the morning, and came to her room and called Nicole, remembering God. After some time, when Nicole picked up the phone and said hello, she became excited hearing Mriganshi's voice and started asking questions.



    Ignoring everyone, Mriganshi asked her to call Dhaval.



    A wave of anxiety washed over Mriganshi. "Nicole, please hurry and tell him to talk to me!"



    Nicole asked, "Any problem...?"



    Mriganshi said, "Nothing... boy..."



    Nicole looked at the phone in surprise and started calling Dhaval. After some time, Mriganshi's phone rang. Mriganshi, whose attention was on the phone, quickly picked it up.



    "Hello Nicole, what happened? Did you talk to Dhaval?"



    "No... his phone is not connecting!"



    "Do this, you go to the filling station right now and find out his whereabouts, understand... I am waiting for you!"



    "But what happened? You suddenly came to India!"



    "I'll tell you everything when I get there... first, find out his whereabouts!"



    Mriganshi was pacing anxiously when Aastha came into the room and said, "Didi, what happened?"



    Mriganshi said abruptly, "No, nothing... you are sleeping, so go to sleep... I'm going to give Papa his phone!"



    Aastha sat on the bed and said, "You come, let's sit and talk for a while!"



    Mriganshi said, "But it will take a little time!"



    "It's okay... I am waiting..."



    Mriganshi smiled and went to the terrace. Walking here and there, she said, "Please Dhaval... where are you? Meet me quickly!"



    After a while, the phone rang again, which increased her anxiety! Sitting on the waves of uncertainty, she was neither drowning nor swimming. She looked at the phone for a few moments, then came to her senses and picked up the phone. Hearing Nicole's answer, she felt like she had fallen from the sky.



    To be continued*****

  • 19. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 19

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    A little later, the phone rang again, which made her nervousness increase! Sitting on waves of uncertainty, she was neither sinking nor swimming! She looked at the phone for a few moments, then regained her senses and picked it up. Hearing Nicole's answer, she fell from the sky!



    Mriganshi said in surprise, "What???? He quit his job! Nicole, please do one thing, you... go to his room and find out... maybe he's not feeling well! Please... please... just do this one thing!"



    "Okay, no need to convince me with just this 'please'!... I'll call in ten minutes!"



    "Thanks Nicole... Love you so much Nicole..."



    "Do you want to tell Dhaval?"



    "Shut up! I can say it myself..."



    Nicole said with a laugh, "Bye, take care."



    Mriganshi's heart rate increased. "Dhaval, where are you... you haven't called even once, nor have you met Nicole! Dhaval, please talk to me once... if we don't talk today, we'll be apart forever!"



    Mriganshi sat on the roof, entwining her hands, and thought. After some time, when Nicole called, she cut it and dialed her back.



    Impatient Mriganshi said, "Nicole, if Dhaval is nearby, let me talk to him first!"



    Nicole asked, "Why are you so worried... also for Dhaval?"



    Mriganshi said irritably, "Hey, give the phone to Dhaval..."



    Nicole, also annoyed, said, "I'll give you the phone when someone is here! No one is here! Dhaval has gone to India..."



    It had been twenty days! She hadn't spoken to him, nor to Nicole!



    Mriganshi's heart filled up and she cut the call. Tears welled up in her eyes. She sat like a statue for a while. Nicole kept calling, and Mriganshi kept cutting...



    Finally, Nicole also stopped calling, but she became tense. Thinking of calling the next day, she went home. Mriganshi wiped her tears, went into Karan's room, hugged him, and agreed to marry Dushyant.



    Seeing her emotional, Karan also became emotional. "Aren't you happy?"



    Mriganshi said, "It's not like that... if I had known earlier, I would have prepared myself mentally. And you know Papa's love, right? And you don't look good when you're emotional..."



    Vedank, coming inside, teased Mriganshi and said, "Di, it's all because of you... And Papa, don't be emotional! ... Poor Dushyant will be emotional! I'm just worried about him!"



    From behind, Abhyuday, Vaibhav, Kavish, Aastha, Bhavin all said together, "This is absolutely true..."



    Mriganshi looked at everyone with surprised, wide eyes!



    Kavish said, "Di, will Jijoo even understand your Hinglish..."



    Mriganshi glared and said, "You understand it, don't you..."



    Abhyuday intervened and said, "But the accent will remain the same... Hinglish..."



    Mriganshi said, "One idea... I'll take all of you as gifts..."



    Karan was laughing, listening to everyone. Mriganshi said, "Papa, is this okay..."



    Bhavin put his arm around Mriganshi's neck and said, "Di, ask Jijoo first... why, Big Papa..."



    Mriganshi touched his cheek and said, "What is there to ask? I... what do elders say when they give girls and goods in marriage..."



    She paused and started thinking. Aastha quickly said, "Dowry..."



    Mriganshi said, "Yes... that... I've brought all my brothers and sisters in dowry!"



    Mayuri came and was surprised to see everyone in her room! Vedank walked towards Mayuri and said, "Come on, Mama, your problem is solved!"



    He started bringing Mayuri inside. "Hey, wait, I'm coming..."



    Vedank entered the room with Mayuri. Bhavin, who was standing with his arm around Mriganshi's neck, said, "Big Mom, Di's dowry problem is solved..."



    Mayuri was stunned. "Where did this come from... They have asked for Mriganshi, and nothing else..."



    Kavish said, "But still, you will give..."



    Mayuri said, "But..."



    Aastha said, "Big Mom, no 'buts'..."



    Before Mayuri could say anything, Bhavin said, "All of us brothers and sisters will go with Di... not another word after this."



    Abhyuday playfully slapped his head and said, "Enough... everyone knows nothing like that happens..."



    Turning to Mayuri, he said, "Big Mom, everyone is just passing time!"



    Mriganshi glared at Abhyuday and said, "Everything is fine with you... Chesta Bhabhi won't get to stay with Hukum... And what if she also brings her brothers and sisters..."



    Mayuri said sternly, "Everyone go to your rooms... tomorrow everyone will get their share of work! Let's go, rest, you won't get rest for two days!"



    Vedank, Abhyuday, Kavish came out, while Bhavin and Aastha hugged her. "Love you Mama..."



    Smiling, she patted both their heads and wished them good night. After they left, Mriganshi stood by Karan. Mayuri came near and said, "What's the matter? Should I specially tell you to sleep..."



    Mriganshi hugged Mayuri and said, "I am ready to marry Dushyant!"



    Mayuri said happily, "Really..."



    "Yes, Mama..."



    "Truly, by saying yes, you have lightened my heart's burden!"



    Karan was listening quietly to the mother and daughter. Mayuri said, "Dushyant studied with Abhyuday and has been coming home since childhood!"



    "Hmmm..." Karan came closer and placed his hand on her head. Mayuri told him to sleep.



    Mriganshi came to her room and sat with Aastha! Karan understood Mayuri's feelings. He had not let Mriganshi out of his sight, and now suddenly someone would come and take her away forever!



    Sobbing, she hugged Karan! Karan whispered something in her ear, and she looked at him with tear-filled eyes!



    To be continued*****

  • 20. आंखो में हो तुम - Chapter 20

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    Estimated Reading Time: 0 min

    Mayuri sobbed while hugging Karan! Karan whispered something in her ear, and Mayuri stared at him with tear-filled eyes.



    Karan smiled and said, "What happened? Did I say something wrong? Why are you looking at me like this?"



    Mayuri moved away and said, "You're being a bit too playful... the son-in-law is coming, and you'll promote me in society's eyes the day after tomorrow!"



    Karan replied, "What does that have to do with him? Our 'Hukum' was always beautiful, is, and will remain so."



    Mayuri stared lovingly and said, "You don't look good saying all this!"



    Karan slapped his forehead and said, "One of our 'Hukums' dislikes my compliments, while wives in the world yearn for these words."



    Mayuri said, as she removed the pin securing her dupatta to her head, "Your eyes already compliment me, so you don't need words."



    Mayuri was surprised by Karan's response. She said, "What happened? You didn't say anything!"



    Karan lay on the bed and said, "Our 'Hukum' simply silences me with her replies."



    Mayuri smiled hearing Karan's words and looking at him in the mirror! She knew that whenever she wore traditional Rajasthani attire in Miami, Karan would always compliment her, and now, after coming here, she had to wear these clothes regularly even while staying with the family.



    When Mriganshi arrived, Aastha was absent from the room! In her solitude, her heart grew heavy! Dhaval and their conversations kept coming to her mind! Defeated, she sat near the room's gate and started crying.



    "Dhaval, you should have at least told Nicole... Dhaval, please come once..."



    There was a knock on Mriganshi's room door! Mriganshi quickly got up, wiped her eyes, and opened the door! Bhavin was standing there.



    Bhavin said, "Di, what happened??? You..."



    Mriganshi interrupted, "Nothing... you tell me, why have you come?"



    Bhavin said, "The brothers have asked me to call you... today everyone will have fun!"



    Mriganshi said, "No, I'm not in the mood. You all carry on..."



    Bhavin held Mriganshi by the side and said, "Di, you're getting emotional..."



    Mriganshi smiled and said, "Don't try to be the elder brother, stay young... Tomorrow, we will all have fun together, and in the hall."



    Bhavin told everyone to use Mriganshi's headache as an excuse to postpone the program until tomorrow, and everyone went to their rooms.



    Mriganshi washed her face and lay down on the bed! Aastha came and started talking about her college! While listening to her, Mriganshi fell asleep!



    From morning, the house was bustling... light decoration with flowers was in progress... everyone had arrived... The children were mingling with each other, while Deepika, Jahanvi, and Avni were delighted to meet Mayuri and Karan.



    Mriganshi had not yet woken up! She had fallen asleep listening to Aastha's stories last night! She had woken up late at night due to a sudden sound and couldn't sleep again! Dhaval kept wandering in her thoughts! When Avni woke her up, she excitedly hugged her upon hearing Avni's voice.



    She freshened up and met everyone! By evening, the henna artist arrived, and along with Mriganshi, Aastha and others also got henna applied! When the henna artist asked Mriganshi for an alphabet, 'D' came out of her mouth.



    Aastha teased, "Wow Di, such a quick answer..."



    Mriganshi blushed. She hadn't realized that Dushyant's name also started with 'D'. Aastha, teasing Mriganshi, changed her voice and said, "My love, my name is DR, and people call me RD..."



    Mriganshi's eyes widened as she said, "Aasu, you can change your voice????... Huhhhh..."



    Aastha replied, "Yessssssss yes, this humble one has this ability too."



    The henna artist said, "Ma'am, please don't move your hand..."



    Mriganshi said scoldingly, "Aasu, look, you've ruined it..."



    Aastha said, "Di, it's nothing... and anyway, I'm not supposed to get engaged to RD! By the way, Di is very shy..."



    Mriganshi gave her a look to keep quiet.



    Aastha said, "I swear Di... I think you'll be the one to show your face!"



    The henna artist also laughed hearing Aastha's words. "Aasu, if you don't shut up now, you'll see..." Mriganshi said.



    Aastha kept laughing silently, and Mriganshi also smiled looking at her! Mriganshi's henna had dried. Preeti was applying a lemon-sugar mixture to everyone's henna.



    Mriganshi said, "Grandma, I'm thirsty!"



    Preeti said, "I'll bring it now..."



    Mriganshi said, "Let it cool down a bit..."



    After some time, Seema Ji arrived, took care of Mriganshi's henna by warding off evil spirits, and sat beside Mriganshi. Mriganshi rested her head in her lap.



    After a while, Vaibhav arrived and asked Mriganshi to come downstairs, along with 'Badi Dadi Sa Hukum' (Grandmother of High Esteem).



    In the hall, all the children were watching their mischief on the LED screen! Mriganshi had come to Shaur and Jahanvi's wedding! When she was two years old! She was playing with Abyudaya. She wouldn't go to anyone except Karan. Uday, Shaur, and Param were trying to pick her up!



    Seema Ji said, "This was her first time here, she got sick right away... the climate didn't agree with her... Poor Mayuri couldn't even see or perform any rituals properly!"



    After that, she came to Param and Avni's wedding! When Ved was a year old! There were no videos from that time. Kavish had the remote in his hand and was fast-forwarding quickly!



    Seema Ji said, "Kavi, instead of fast-forwarding so much, it's better to stop it..."



    Aastha smiled and said, "Dadi Sa Hukum, it feels like we're blinking our eyes rapidly..."



    Bhavin said, "You're right, Di..."



    Kavish slowly advanced the pictures. After that, they had come when Karan's grandfather passed away! Vedank was about to be born, and by then, 'Badi Dadi Sa Hukum' had already departed. So, neither of them could come.



    To be continued *****

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