This naive heart couldn't see the mirage of love in her, decorating its eyes with true dreams of a life with her. A heartless soul traded those very dreams away.<br /> <br /> A story of such deceit that, disguised as love, pushed Parthavi into a swam... This naive heart couldn't see the mirage of love in her, decorating its eyes with true dreams of a life with her. A heartless soul traded those very dreams away.<br /> <br /> A story of such deceit that, disguised as love, pushed Parthavi into a swamp. Parthavi had to leave her village, her family, everything, because of a mistake made in her innocence. But the one for whom she left everything, betrayed her. Will Parthavi ever be able to love again? Will she be able to forget his betrayal and move on, or will she spend her life in that swamp? Or will someone become her companion in the dark path? To find out, read Treacherous Love.<br />
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In the land of the gods, Uttarakhand, nestled near the four sacred abodes, lies a small town—
"Almora..."
Perched on high mountains, this town is incredibly captivating. Its beauty draws everyone towards it. During the cold days, as the temperature drops, the layer of snow on the mountains appears like a white sheet, and the vines clinging to the trees on them multiply the beauty of these mountains manifold. Similarly, during summer, when the sheets of snow melt, the lush green landscapes mesmerize everyone. The beauty here holds a special place in people's hearts. Countless love stories are woven into the hills of Almora, echoing in its mountains and ponds.
These mountains are the heart of this place, for the trees and forests settled on them are the world of its people. And what makes this world even more beautiful are the people of the hills, who are as simple in appearance as their hearts are pure. Their simple attire reflects the local culture and traditions.
"For the people living here, this place is no less than heaven, Babuji!!"
A nineteen-year-old girl was acquainting a group of tourists standing on an Almora hill with the town's beauty. She had an ordinary complexion, which could be described as both dusky and fair; a round face with sharp features; simple eyes; thick lashes; beautifully sculpted lips; and a small black mole above them. Her dark, thick hair was tied with a local scarf, but with some strands loose, she looked exceptionally beautiful.
The girl was ordinary, but despite her simple appearance, she could capture anyone's attention with her innocence and guilelessness. With a sweet smile, she was describing the beauty of her village to them all.
Impressed by her, one of the tourists said,
"You speak very well. What is your name?"
The girl smiled softly and was about to say something when a voice called from a distance,
"Oh Parthavi... you'll get scolded by Amma again today!!"
Parthavi bit her tongue and, joining her hands in a pleading manner in front of everyone, said,
"Forgive me, Babuji... we're leaving!!"
Having said this, she ran off without waiting for anyone's reply and reached the girl who had called her. Seeing her, the other girl said irritably,
"If you're so keen, why don't you become a guide, Parthavi? You come here every day lying and then get me scolded along with you when you're caught!!"
Parthavi playfully hit her on the head and said,
"Look Ratna... we don't have any desire to do this... we just enjoy telling everyone about Almora's beauty, so we say whatever comes to mind."
Ratna said, annoyed by her words,
"Let's go home now... Amma and Bapu are both looking for you... think of a good excuse!!"
Parthavi smiled. Talking, Parthavi and Ratna continued to climb the hill. Parthavi's house was higher up on the inhabited part of the hill, and Ratna lived next door.
They reached the top of the hill, talking all the way. As Parthavi neared her house, she hid and began looking around like a spy. But her mother, Lajo, saw her and, scolding her loudly, said,
"You're here... How many times have I told you not to go alone, but this girl never listens... she just keeps my blood boiling!!"
Parthavi looked around. No one reacted much to Lajo's words, as if this was a daily occurrence for them.
Ratna, standing behind Parthavi, listened to all this. Pushing Parthavi, she said,
"Are you going in, or should I arrange an auspicious time for you to enter!!"
Parthavi glared at her and then walked ahead, adopting an innocent expression and standing calmly near her mother, as if she had done nothing at all.
As soon as Lajo saw her, she picked up her stick and ran towards her to hit her. Seeing this, Parthavi ran behind Ratna. Lajo followed her, shouting angrily,
"How many times have I told you not to go there... but no, she never listens... Father and brother have spoiled her rotten... You just wait until I catch you today... I'll teach you!!"
Parthavi hadn't stopped; she kept darting behind Ratna, and Lajo tried to catch her. Poor Ratna was caught between them, moving right, left, forward, and backward. If she tried to escape, Parthavi would hold her tightly. Finally, exhausted, Lajo stood still and said, panting,
"This girl has worn me out... I can't run anymore!!"
Hearing this, Parthavi poked her head out from behind Ratna and said,
"We know you're just pretending, like every time. You'll hit us on the ears when we come!"
Ratna smiled at this, and Lajo couldn't help but smile either.
Just then, two hands touched Parthavi's shoulders from behind. The moment her shoulders were touched, a wide smile spread across Parthavi's lips, and her eyes widened with joy. She quickly turned around and shouted excitedly,
"Ujjwal Bhaiya... how did you get here so soon??"
Ujjwal, Parthavi's brother, standing behind her, lit up seeing Parthavi and said, stroking her head,
"I got off work early today, so I came... you wanted to go to the fair, right!!"
Hearing the word "fair," Parthavi jumped with joy like a child and exclaimed,
"The fair... you'll take us to the fair... Yay..."
Parthavi jumped with happiness, raising both her hands. Lajo, Ratna, and Ujjwal all smiled, seeing Parthavi happy. Lajo went inside, while Parthavi, with Ratna, climbed the stairs from outside and went to her room to get ready.
Ujjwal came inside, washed his hands and face, tidied his hair, and came out. He took them both with him and set off for the fair.
Lajo watched them leave. Seeing Lajo like that, Parthavi's father, Arvind ji, asked,
"What happened... what are you looking at?"
Lajo turned and looked at him, then in the direction Parthavi had gone, and said,
"I'm worried about Parthavi, Ji!!"
Arvind ji's gaze settled on Lajo, and he said with a hint of doubt,
"Worried about what?"
Lajo sighed and said,
"Parthavi is too naive, Ji... too far behind in today's world. Where children her age are cunning and deceitful, Parthavi is the opposite—innocent and simple. She doesn't know deceit. She believes whatever anyone says without thinking if it's right or wrong. She trusts everyone, Ji. I fear all this might lead to a very big loss!!"
Arvind ji remained silent at first, then chuckled softly and said,
"You're crazy, Lajo... you worry for no reason. Our Parthavi is a manifestation of Maa Nanda Devi herself. Because such people are like gods, and God resides in such guileless people, and God is in Parthavi. You leave everything to Maa Nanda Devi. Now come, give me food, I'm hungry, and I have to go to work too!!"
Lajo did not respond to his words and went to serve food. Arvind ji sat down to eat, and while chatting about this and that with Lajo, he started eating.
After some time, while talking, Lajo said to Arvind ji,
"Did no one come this year either... Will no tourist stay at our house this year?"
Arvind ji replied casually,
"There is hope this time, Lajo... Everything was shut down for two years due to the lockdown. But this time, everything is open, and tourists are also coming. Let's see what happens this year!!"
As Lajo poured something into his cup, she said,
"If no one comes this time either, it will be difficult!!"
Arvind ji said calmly,
"Someone will surely come by the grace of the Goddess. Stop worrying... you worry unnecessarily!!"
This time, Lajo said nothing. Arvind ji finished his meal, got ready, took a bag, and left for work. Arvind ji was a laborer; he did whatever work he found. Ujjwal worked in a milk factory. In fact, the entire burden of the household rested on Ujjwal. Whatever little Arvind ji earned was spent on small household expenses.
Their biggest source of income was the incoming tourists. They kept two rooms on the upper floor for tourists, but due to COVID for the past two years, everything had been closed, and so had their income. Who would come this time, only God knows...
To be continued...
It was the month of September. The entire country was still experiencing summer, but for a place like Almora, it was the beginning of the cold. A slight chill could be felt in the air. It was afternoon and sunny, so Parthavi, Ratna, and Ujjwal were not wearing woolen clothes. All three reached the fair, and as soon as they arrived, Parthavi and Ratna screamed with joy. The fairs in the mountains have a unique beauty. The local people, wearing traditional attire, presented a true picture of unity in diversity. The fair nestled amidst the mountains, and the swings set up in it, when they went up, made the mountain scenery even more beautiful.
Parthavi and Ratna ran inside the fair. Ujjwal watched their happiness. He made Parthavi and Ratna sit on all the swings. Both friends were happily enjoying every moment. Ujjwal was happy seeing his sister's innocent laughter. They spent a long time roaming the fair, and slowly the sun began to set. Ujjwal caught both of them and said with a slight scolding,
"Come on, let's go home now. Amma will pull my hair if I don't reach on time!!"
Parthavi made a face and said,
"Brother, we want to roam more!!"
Ratna nodded in agreement to Parthavi's words. Ujjwal playfully swatted their heads and said,
"Enough now, let's go! I listened to you both, now you both listen to me and let's go!!"
Parthavi, looking dejected, nodded and followed Ujjwal. Tourists were returning to their accommodations, while some were staying to admire the beauty of the setting sun over the mountains. Parthavi watched them all coming and going. She casually asked Ujjwal,
"Brother, why is the setting sun so beautiful?"
Ujjwal smiled and said,
"Whatever is beautiful, will look beautiful, Parthavi!!"
Parthavi scratched her head and said,
"How can that be, brother?"
Ujjwal smiled again at her innocent question and said,
"Why not? The sun is beautiful, that's why everyone is standing here to watch it set!!"
The three of them were climbing the slope. Ujjwal and Ratna were getting tired, but Parthavi still seemed energetic. Parthavi pondered hard and said,
"If the sun is beautiful, then why doesn't everyone wait for it during summer? Why do people run away from this same sun in summer?"
Ujjwal's steps stopped. He looked at his sister who had asked a profound question with such innocence. Seeing Ujjwal quiet and still, Parthavi nudged him forward and said,
"Answer me, and while walking!!"
Ujjwal placed a hand on Parthavi's shoulder and said,
"This world, Parthavi, is very selfish. Here, people like someone only when they are useful, when they benefit from them, or when there's a purpose. As soon as the purpose ends, and the benefit stops, people try to distance themselves. The same happens with the sun. We don't like the sun in summer because of its heat; its heat feels like poison to us. However, in winter, this same heat gives us warmth, which is why we all like it!!"
Parthavi listened intently at first, then suddenly burst into laughter. Both Ujjwal and Ratna looked at her in surprise. Ujjwal said irritably,
"I didn't make any joke, Parthavi!!"
Parthavi, laughing, said,
"Yes, we know!!"
Ujjwal caught her and straightened her, saying,
"Why are you laughing?"
Parthavi stopped laughing and said,
"According to what you said, we are all foolish, aren't we? Because we always benefit from the sun!!"
As Ujjwal tried to understand her point, Parthavi said with an innocent face,
"Brother, besides summer, the sun always gives us sunlight, which gives us light. If we forget this, we are indeed foolish, aren't we!!"
Ujjwal shook his head in disagreement and playfully swatted her again, saying,
"Only God knows about you and your talks! Now come on, hurry up, Amma must be waiting!!"
Parthavi patted her head and said,
"Let's go, let's go!!"
Saying this, Parthavi moved forward quickly, making Ratna and Ujjwal laugh.
Lajo was cleaning and arranging things in the room upstairs. No one had come into these rooms for two years, and it was essential to come this time, otherwise, everyone would have been very disappointed. Lajo said while cleaning the room,
"O Mother Nanda Devi, please send someone this time. We have been hoping for two years, and that hope is now fading. You know, Mother, all this is very important this time!!"
As she spoke, she continued her work.
Delhi, Gurgaon.
It was 9 AM, and in a large room of a magnificent house, a twenty-four-year-old young man was pacing while talking on the phone. His face showed deep contemplation. After talking for a while, he ended the call. Just then, another young man of the same age entered and said,
"Why Vyom Reja, what are you thinking about?"
Vyom, standing opposite, looked at him and said in a deep voice,
"Nothing, Bhaskar, just a little work pressure!!"
Bhaskar said laughingly,
"Dude, I still don't understand what kind of work you do. You just disappear for a few months and come back saying the work is done!!"
Vyom's face turned serious. He said in a stern voice,
"You can talk to me about anything except my work!!"
Bhaskar understood that Vyom didn't like him talking like this, so he tried to lighten the mood and said laughingly,
"Okay, then tell me, how many girlfriends do you have?"
Vyom said irritably,
"You know I don't have any girlfriends!!"
Bhaskar smiled and said,
"Yes, I know. So, who should I talk about?"
Vyom said nothing, just started packing his belongings. Seeing him pack, Bhaskar said,
"Are you going somewhere again?"
Vyom nodded in affirmation, and Bhaskar moved forward and asked,
"But where are you going?"
Vyom's hands stopped, and he said,
"I don't know, but I will go somewhere!!"
Bhaskar said exasperatedly,
"I don't understand you. When you come, when you go. Hey, at least let me know what you're doing so I can be at peace!!"
Vyom also retorted,
"I told you not to talk about my work, and whoever I meet or go to, there's no one behind me, so keep quiet, understand!!"
Bhaskar also got angry and started to leave, but Vyom realized his mistake and stopped him, saying,
"Okay, sorry!!"
Bhaskar stopped in his tracks, and Vyom went ahead and hugged him. Bhaskar's anger subsided. Separating from him, Vyom said,
"I'm leaving. I have to meet a client. Then I'll leave from there. Take care of my house until I return!!"
Bhaskar nodded in affirmation and said goodbye to him. Vyom also said goodbye and left.
He took his car and set off for his client's place. On the way, he searched for some places on Google, and after a long time, his search ended on Almora. He read articles about Almora and decided to go there. He booked his ticket from his mobile, tossed the mobile aside, and looking out, slowly said,
"Almora."
About half an hour later, he met a man. He spoke to him, exchanged something for it, and the man gave him a suitcase containing money. Vyom gave him a thumbs-up and left for the bank. He deposited the money in the bank and then left for the airport, his next destination being Almora.
To be continued...
Parthvi had returned home with Ujjwal before it got dark. Lajo was still cleaning the room. Their house was typical of the hilly regions; made of wood, with two rooms downstairs and a small kitchen. There was a single staircase from the outside leading up, which branched to the right and left. The staircase on the left led to Parthvi's room and another room used as a store room. The staircase on the other side led to two rooms, which were neither very large nor small.
Parthvi was climbing the stairs. Her eyes fell on the open door of a room, and instead of going into her own room, she walked into the room where Lajo was organizing things.
"What are you doing, Amma? Are guests coming?" Parthvi asked innocently.
Lajo ignored her question and chided, "You're back from your outing. Now go change your clothes, come downstairs, and give your brother something to eat!"
Parthvi made a face and scratched her head as she went into her room. Lajo watched her go and said in a tired voice, "Only God knows what this girl will do!"
Parthvi changed her clothes in her room and came downstairs wearing a sweater and a cap. Ujjwal had also changed and was seated by then. As soon as Parthvi came down, Ujjwal saw her and scolded, "You've come back from your outing, haven't you? Now go and study. If you fail or come second in the tenth grade this time, I'll stop your food and drink. Understood!"
"What, Bhaiya! I can't study. I just somehow pass. Don't tell me to study!" Parthvi said with a pout.
Ujjwal gestured for her to come to him. Parthvi went and sat next to him. Ujjwal placed his hand on Parthvi's head and said affectionately, "Look Parthvi, in today's world, only educated people can get ahead. We all want to see you become something after studying. I couldn't study due to the family's circumstances, so now you have to do it. If you have any difficulties, tell me. I will explain. I'll arrange for tuition wherever you want. Once you study and become an engineer, all our struggles until today will have paid off!"
Parthvi understood some of what he said, and some went over her head. She blinked her eyes innocently and looked at Ujjwal, asking, "Will our becoming engineers solve our family's problems, Bhaiya?"
Ujjwal smiled and nodded, saying, "Yes, absolutely!" Hearing him, Parthvi clapped happily and said, "Then we will study a lot, Bhaiya, and solve everyone's problems!"
Just then, Lajo arrived and, patting Parthvi on the head, said, "Solve problems later, first go and serve your brother his food!"
Parthvi made another face and moved away, gave Ujjwal his food, and ran back to her room.
As darkness fell, the cold increased in the valleys of Almora. Light fog was also visible. When Lajo called out, Parthvi ran home, ate, and went to sleep in her room upstairs. Once Parthvi fell asleep, it was difficult to wake her even with drums beating, and today, she felt she had also gotten tired.
Due to a flight delay, Vyom reached Uttarakhand Airport late at night. He booked a cab to Almora and set off towards his unknown destination. He was in the city of Almora around midnight. Wherever he went, he tried to stay with a family, and he wanted to do the same this time; he wanted to stay with a family in the populated city of Almora. As the cab climbed the hilly road, the driver casually said, "Brother, there will be problems with the cab going further up. You go alone!"
Vyom looked around outside the window and, without saying anything, got out of the car with his bag.
Today, Parthvi's Baba was late returning from work, and he was going home via the same route.
Vyom stood where he was for a while, then picked up his bag and walked ahead. As Parthvi's Baba passed him, Vyom stopped him and said, "Listen!"
Arvind Ji looked Vyom up and down with a doubtful tone and said, "Yes!"
Vyom said casually, "Actually, I've come here for a visit and need a family environment to stay in. You see, I don't like staying alone. Can you tell me the address of such a place?"
Hearing Vyom, Arvind Ji's face lit up. He said happily, "Son, I also rent out rooms to tourists at home. We have a whole family. You can come and see, and if you don't like it, you can look elsewhere tomorrow morning!"
Vyom felt some relief. He added, "I'll see tonight, we'll worry about tomorrow morning tomorrow!" Arvind Ji was pleased and headed towards his home with Vyom.
Lajo Ji was sitting at the door of her house, waiting for Arvind Ji. Ujjwal had gone to sleep, and Lajo Ji was getting impatient with Arvind Ji's absence. Looking towards the road, she grumbled, "If they are late, they won't even bother to call. No, they just have to be late and keep their phones switched off!"
Just then, her eyes fell on Arvind Ji approaching. She quickly stood up and moved forward to speak, but her eyes fell on Vyom, who was coming with him.
Seeing Vyom, questions arose in her mind. Arvind Ji handed his bag to Lajo Ji and, gesturing towards Vyom, said, "He's here for a visit and needs a family place to stay. So, I've brought him along!"
Lajo Ji's face beamed with joy, and she gestured for them to come inside, saying, "Come in, both of you. And you, wash your hands and face, then I'll show you the room!"
Arvind Ji nodded in affirmation, and Vyom, looking at the surroundings, went upstairs with Lajo Ji. Lajo Ji showed him the room and said, "This is the room. Please take a look. Then, whatever decision you make tomorrow morning, let me know!" Vyom nodded and went into the room. Lajo Ji left.
Vyom inspected the room. The room was fine and had almost all the necessary things. There were two windows in the room, one facing outwards and the other opening into the corridor. When Vyom opened the corridor window, he saw that the light in Parthvi's room was on. He thought there might be another tourist like him, and with that thought, he looked around and closed the window. He washed his face with water. As soon as he took water in his hands, he shivered because the water was very cold. He somehow washed his face and, after changing into lighter clothes, put on warm clothes because he had dressed according to Mumbai's weather before coming here and was now feeling the cold. After changing, he got into bed. He ate the food he had bought outside, drank water, and due to the fatigue of the journey, he fell asleep very quickly.
Lajo Ji and Arvind Ji also ate and went to sleep.
To be continued...
The morning in the mountains the next day was very beautiful, and Almora was a very beautiful city nestled in the mountains. Vyom was still tucked in his quilt in his room, completing his sleep. The chirping of birds had already begun. Mornings in the mountains started with the chirping of birds. Vyom’s sleep was broken by these sounds. He got up, rubbing his eyes, and started looking around. It was quite cold there in the morning, so he put on his jacket and came out of the quilt with a yawn. He opened the window; his eyes stopped as soon as he saw the view outside. Tall mountains and the dawn’s redness, which clouds had hidden behind them; it looked as if the clouds, touching the mountains, were moving forward on their journey, making them beautiful with a blanket of mist that drenched them. Beautiful valleys and thick fog were making the valleys of Almora exquisite, enough to provide coolness to the eyes. Vyom had never seen such beauty before. He took out his camera from his bag and took a couple of pictures.
He had just reached the room door when there was a knock. He opened the door to find Ujjwal standing there. Seeing Ujjwal, Vyom’s eyebrows furrowed.
"My name is Ujjwal. Mother told me that you came to stay here last night!!" Ujjwal said with a smile.
From Ujjwal’s words, Vyom understood that he was Arvind Ji’s son.
"Come in!!" he said, moving aside from the door.
"No, please take this warm water. Wash your hands and face with it or bathe and then come downstairs and have breakfast!!" Ujjwal said with a gentle smile.
Vyom looked at his hand, and Ujjwal had a bucket full of warm water in his hands. As Vyom extended his hand, Ujjwal quickly said,
"You leave it, I’ll keep it in the bathroom!!"
Saying this, Ujjwal came into the bathroom in the corridor, accessible from the balcony, kept the water, and left.
Vyom took his towel and went to the bathroom to bathe. Parthavi was still asleep. Vyom returned to his room after bathing. Parthavi got up, rubbing her eyes, and first opened her room window, looking outside with a smile.
"The beauty of our village is unique! Seeing this beautiful morning view, it feels like we have descended into heaven. These clouds, these mountains, the trees here, every particle contributes to enhancing the beauty of this place!!" she said, gazing at the beautiful scenery outside with her lovely eyes.
Parthavi was thinking all this when she heard Lajo’s shouting from downstairs, calling her.
"O Parthavi… will you come down today or not!!"
Hearing Lajo’s voice, Parthavi bit her tongue and said,
"We’re doomed… Mother will scold me severely!!"
Saying this, Parthavi quickly went to the bathroom and, without paying attention to anything, washed her face and went downstairs. She was coming down, tying her hair with a scarf, and at the same time, Vyom was also coming down the stairs, strapping his watch onto his wrist.
Parthavi descended quickly, and as soon as she looked ahead, her foot twisted, and she stumbled, about to fall, when Vyom’s eyes fell on her, and he quickly grabbed Parthavi’s hand. Parthavi screamed loudly in fear of falling and shut her eyes. Hearing Parthavi’s scream, Arvind Ji, Lajo, and Ujjwal rushed upstairs. Vyom cast his deep gaze on Parthavi, who had her eyes closed, and his gaze lingered on Parthavi’s face.
A fair complexion, but an innocent face, a sharp nose, and beautifully sculpted lips, and long black hair that was quite beautiful. Vyom forgot himself and started looking at Parthavi.
Parthavi slowly opened her eyes and, seeing a stranger in front of her, her large eyes widened even further. Just then, the three from downstairs arrived, and seeing Parthavi like this, Arvind Ji said,
"What happened?"
At Arvind Ji’s voice, both Parthavi and Vyom came to their senses, and Parthavi, steadying herself, stood upright. Ujjwal rushed to her side, and Vyom, without knowing anything about Parthavi, said,
"She was falling, so I held her hand. Sorry!!"
Vyom said sorry looking at Parthavi, and Parthavi squinted her eyes and glared at him.
Hearing this, Lajo Ji scolded Parthavi, saying,
"She has grown tall but lacks the sense to walk. You keep falling all the time. When will you get some sense, Parthavi? Why are you so carefree!!"
Parthavi made funny faces at Lajo Ji, and Vyom smiled inwardly hearing Parthavi’s antics. Arvind Ji asked Vyom to come downstairs, and everyone went down.
Arvind Ji seated everyone for breakfast, and after a little refusal, Vyom also started eating. Lajo Ji had made the famous Uttarakhand vegetable, Kandali ka Saag, for breakfast. Kandali ka Saag was one of the famous local dishes, mostly made in winter. Vyom liked this dish a lot.
While having breakfast, Arvind Ji asked Vyom,
"So son, did you like the room, or would you prefer to stay somewhere else?"
Before Vyom could say anything, Parthavi came and left after placing the roti. Vyom kept looking at Parthavi’s innocent face. Seeing Vyom quiet, Arvind Ji asked the same question again, and Vyom smiled easily and said,
"Please tell me the rent. I don't know how long I will stay here, so whatever the rent for the days, please tell me without hesitation!!"
Arvind Ji, along with Lajo Ji and Ujjwal, smiled upon hearing this, while Parthavi said irritably,
"He looks like some city slicker. Now I’ll have to tolerate another city slicker!!"
The rest had breakfast, and after breakfast, Vyom went upstairs, Arvind Ji went to his work, and Ujjwal also left for his work. Arvind Ji had work in the morning, so he left on time.
Downstairs, Parthavi and Lajo Ji remained. As they both had breakfast together, Lajo said while eating,
"Did you thank them?"
Parthavi, who had forgotten everything by now, said with her mouth full of food,
"Whom?"
Lajo Ji said irritably,
"The new guest from the city, who saved you from falling a while ago!!"
Parthavi made a face and said,
"We didn’t ask them to save us, Mother."
Lajo Ji glared at her and said,
"You’ll remain spoiled. Go upstairs after breakfast and thank them and come back!!"
Parthavi said lazily,
"Mother!!"
But before her words could be completed, Lajo Ji gave her a look, so Parthavi fell silent and then, after a while, said softly,
"Alright, I’ll go and say it!!"
Saying this, Parthavi left her breakfast unfinished and went upstairs after washing her hands. She climbed upstairs muttering and knocked on Vyom’s door. He was on a call at that time. Hearing the knock on the door, he looked ahead to see Parthavi peeking out like a child. Vyom smiled and stood in front of her and said,
"Yes?"
At his voice, Parthavi looked at him and said, scratching her head,
"That city babu… that… that Mother is saying you saved me from falling, so…"
"So…?" Vyom asked, raising his eyebrows.
Parthavi made a face and said,
"I should thank you!!"
Vyom said quickly,
"Then say it!!"
"Huh…!!" Parthavi said in surprise.
Vyom stood with his hands folded and said casually,
"Say thank you. Your mother said so!!"
Parthavi listened to him in surprise at first, then said thank you and ran downstairs quickly. As soon as she left, Vyom smiled looking at his mobile and then looked at the door and said softly,
"City babu!!"
Parthavi was going straight to Ratna’s place from downstairs when Lajo Ji stopped her and said,
"Where are you going?"
Parthavi said, squinting her eyes,
"That… that Mother… that!!"
While speaking, Parthavi turned back, and Lajo Ji was standing there with a stick. Seeing the stick, Parthavi ran back upstairs and Lajo Ji went back into her house.
Vyom got ready and came downstairs, went to Lajo Ji, and said,
"I want to go sightseeing here, but I don’t know the way. Can you tell me something? Because I arrived late at night, I couldn’t book a guide. I’ll book one in a day or two, but until then, is there anyone who can take me to the places to visit?"
Lajo Ji fell into thought. Thinking for a moment, she said,
"Son, I know the places, but I don’t know how to guide people around!!"
Vyom looked disappointed, so Lajo Ji thought for a moment and said,
"Parthavi knows. She often tells visitors about this place. I’ll tell her, she will take you!!"
Lajo Ji called Parthavi after saying this, and she came down somewhat annoyed. Seeing Parthavi, Vyom smiled, and at Lajo Ji’s request, Parthavi glared at Vyom and then said to Lajo Ji,
"Mother… I don’t know much, I can tell them a little!!"
Lajo Ji scolded her, saying,
"I know how much you know. Take them. They will find someone else in a day or two, understand!!"
Parthavi was getting annoyed. Ever since she met Vyom, she had only been scolded, so she was irritated with Vyom. There was no option but to obey Lajo Ji, so she said annoyed,
"Come, city babu!!"
Saying this, Parthavi moved forward, and behind her, Vyom walked out with his camera.
To be continued…
No response from Groq.
No response from Groq.
He chuckled softly, recalling Parthavi's words and actions. He lay down on the bed to sleep, but Parthavi's face kept flashing before his eyes. Against his will, he was being drawn to Parthavi. The innocent Parthavi, unaware of all these feelings, sat angry with her Vyom Babu Ji.
Vyom suddenly got up, picked up his camera, and started looking at the captured pictures of Parthavi with longing eyes. His gaze stopped at one picture where Parthavi looked extremely happy holding a lamb. His lips moved involuntarily, and his fingers brushed over Parthavi's picture.
"How should I appease you?"
Vyom put the camera aside and tried to sleep.
Delhi.
Red light area.
The lights of houses all over the world were being slowly extinguished, but here there was light everywhere. There was festivity; some with colorful lights, others with captivating faces and charming manners. In a large mansion, a woman sat on a large sofa chewing betel leaf. She had a big bundle in her hand, and the betel nut box was placed a short distance away. Dressed in a beautiful silk sari, a paragon of beauty, adorned with jewelry, she sat on the sofa with full authority. Men like wrestlers stood around her.
The woman made an ugly face, looking at the surrounding rooms, and said,
"Business is very slow these days. Bring some good items, all of you, so that customers flock. No new stock has arrived here for a long time. Customers prefer new stock."
One of the men came forward and said,
"Johra Bai, no girl is falling for our tricks these days, so we are not getting stock."
"Oh, business doesn't run like this! This business needs new stock every week. If no one is falling for your tricks, then bring them by force!"
"Apologies, Johra Bai, police patrols have increased a lot these days, and the ACP this time is very honest. He would die, but he won't take bribes," Bahadur said, bowing his head.
Johra Bai smiled charmingly at his words and said, turning the ring on her hand,
"It seems he hasn't turned his attention towards this kotha, Bahadur Mian. If he had come here, he would have certainly crossed this threshold captured in our grasp."
Bahadur said nothing to this. Johra Bai gestured to them all to leave. After everyone left, she spat the betel leaf into the spittoon and came to stand on the balcony. This was her world; Johra Bai's kotha, where prostitution, singing, dancing, and who knows what else took place. But for the past year, they hadn't found any new girls, so their business was moving at a slower pace.
"I'll have to do something myself," Johra Bai thought and came inside.
The night passed, but for some reason, the morning sun seemed to be hidden today. Parthavi rubbed her eyes, stretched, and stood by her room window. It was a bit colder today, so she wrapped her palms around her arms and blew steam from her mouth, saying,
"Such lovely weather."
Vyom also got up and looked at the view outside the window. A light mist all around... it looked as if clouds had descended on the mountains, and this cold, condensed atmosphere gave him peace. He smiled. Then there was a knock on the room door. He opened the door, and as expected, Ujjwal stood there with warm water. Upon opening the door, he poured the warm water into the bathroom and, telling Parthavi to freshen up, went back himself.
Parthavi went to wash her face. As soon as she splashed water on her face, she shivered terribly from the cold. Still, she somehow completed her routine and came down to Lajo.
"Go, call Vyom Babu," Lajo said as soon as she saw her.
"I won't go, Amma," Parthavi said. When Lajo stared at her, Parthavi made a crying face and said, "I won't go, and I won't take him anywhere today. He makes fun of us, he teases us."
Lajo slapped her forehead and said scoldingly, "What qualities do you possess that he would praise? You've grown as tall as a camel, but your brain is in your knees! You must have done something foolish."
Parthavi's face fell. Lajo stoked the fire in the stove and said, "Now will you go or get beaten?"
Parthavi grumbled and came upstairs with heavy footsteps. Vyom had also heard the commotion. He had just come out after bathing and was still shirtless. Parthavi, being the impulsive one, neither knocked nor called out, but just opened the door with a jerk and barged in.
"Babu Ji, Amma wants you... Oh my god...!" Parthavi's eyes fell on Vyom, and she quickly turned away.
A smile spread across Vyom's face.
"What happened?"
"Babu Ji, you haven't put on clothes yet. Please come down for breakfast after getting dressed." Parthavi was about to leave, but Vyom quickly stepped forward and caught her wrist. For the first time, Parthavi felt something different. Always acting foolishly, today she felt nervous as well as shy for the first time.
"What... what are you doing, Babu Ji?" Parthavi asked, swallowing hard.
Vyom, coming closer to her, said,
"Why are you angry?"
"I... I... I am not angry with you," Parthavi lied, trying to free herself.
"Really?" Vyom came even closer. Now Parthavi's heart was beating rapidly. For the first time, she was so close to an unknown man. Tourists had come before, but Vyom's action made her feel dizzy. She looked at Vyom in panic. He was smiling, looking at her face, but his deep eyes were making Parthavi intoxicated.
"Someone might come, Babu Ji."
"No one will come," Vyom said, coming closer to her face.
Parthavi's face turned red. She stopped trying to free herself and closed her eyes, feeling Vyom's breath on her face.
Vyom gently released her hand and said,
"Go, I'm coming in a while."
Parthavi seemed to come out of a deep dream. Her eyes had a strange radiance, which Vyom also saw and smiled. As soon as she was free from Vyom, Parthavi ran off quickly and sat on the stairs, taking deep breaths. When her breathing returned to normal, she shyly looked at her wrist and ran downstairs.
"Did you tell him?" Lajo asked, unaware of her state. Parthavi looked at Lajo in surprise, then composed herself and said, "Yes... yes, I told him, Amma. He's coming in a while."
"Okay, go, bring the plates and cups, and set breakfast for everyone." Lajo was doing and saying who knows what. Parthavi was just listening, not understanding. She was just remembering Vyom and his touch. This was the age; attraction was certain, but Parthavi did not know what the result of this attraction would be.
To be continued...
Vyom and Parthavi were getting attracted to each other, but both of them were unaware of the consequences of this attraction. Parthavi, at Lajo's suggestion, laid out breakfast for everyone. After a while, Vyom came down. Seeing him for the first time, Parthavi's heart rate increased. She felt shy and looked down, moving away from there.
Vyom smiled slightly. Lajo, as usual, talked to him and asked him to have breakfast.
"Uncle and Ujjwal are not visible," Vyom said as he sat down.
"Both of them went out for work. Their boss called them urgently today," Lajo said, placing a glass of water in front of him.
"Oh…"
Parthavi stood at a distance, admiring Vyom. His wheatish complexion, tall nose, beautiful deep eyes, neatly styled hair, and a thin lemon-colored jacket with black jeans made him look good to her for the first time. He looked good even on the first day, but today her gaze was different.
"What am I doing? They must have joked about it. Why would they find me attractive? There must be so many fair and beautiful girls in the city. Why would they look at me? Focus on your work," Parthavi tried to calm the storm rising in her heart. Just then, Ragna's voice came from outside.
"Parthavi! O Parthavi! What are you doing?" Ragna said as she entered the house. Her eyes fell on Vyom, and she stood still for a moment. Then, she chirped as usual, "Where are you, Parthavi? I've been looking for you since yesterday."
"Yes, she went to take Babuji for a walk, so she was late," Parthavi said to divert her attention. However, her condition seemed strange to Ragna. Vyom was having breakfast, but his attention was entirely on their conversation.
"Alright, come with me today. Are you not going to school?" Ragna asked, pulling Parthavi's hand.
"No, don't be silly! I'm not going to school," Parthavi said sternly.
"If you go to school, who will take me around?" Vyom said promptly.
Lajo did not want to let the guest go, so she immediately said, "Parthavi, take him around for a few days. He will find a guide in that time."
Vyom did not want Parthavi to go out. He just wanted to spend time with her, so he was finding new excuses. Ragna looked at Parthavi sadly.
"It won't be good without you," Parthavi said. She did not need to say anything; she just needed an excuse not to go to school. She did not react, but she was happy inside.
When Ragna left, Lajo said to Vyom, "Vyom Babu, find a good guide. If she doesn't go to school for too many days, her father and brother will get upset."
"In which class is she?" Vyom asked casually.
"She is going to be in eleventh this year," Lajo replied. When Vyom looked at Parthavi, she signaled him to go. Understanding her signal, Vyom said to Lajo, "Okay, Aunty, I'll find a guide today. I'll just go out for a walk."
"Let's go, Parthavi," Vyom said as he stepped out.
"I'll just change," Parthavi said quickly.
Lajo had already heated water for her. Parthavi took the hot water and went into the bathroom. Vyom went to his room and started keeping the necessary things. Parthavi took a bath and freshened up. Today, she felt like looking good. She took out her favorite kurti and wore it. She kept her hair open and dressed simply so that Lajo would not object.
Vyom stood outside the house, waiting for Parthavi. When she came down, Vyom stared at her. Parthavi's face turned red with shyness. She looked around so that Vyom would not know her heart's condition.
Parthavi stood next to Vyom. He looked at her closely and said, "Let's go."
"Yes, let's go!"
Both of them went down the slope. Vyom noticed that Parthavi was a bit hesitant today. Usually talkative Parthavi was walking quietly.
"What's wrong? You seem a bit different today," Vyom said, looking ahead. Parthavi closed her eyes. She felt like her secret was caught. She stuttered, "N…n…no, Babuji."
Vyom turned his face and smiled slightly.
"Why do you think that, Babuji?" Parthavi spoke up. Vyom laughed and said, "You were very quiet, so."
"Thanks, Babuji! I'm glad I didn't go to school today," Parthavi said cheerfully. Vyom laughed a bit more. "So happy not to go to school?"
"I don't like studying," Parthavi said innocently. Both of them were waiting for an auto. Then, a speeding car came from behind, which Parthavi did not notice, but Vyom did. He quickly grabbed Parthavi's hand and pulled her towards him. Parthavi shivered. Her head hit Vyom's chest, and once again, a new feeling stirred her.
Her heart rate increased. Vyom looked at her face and said, "Are you okay?"
"Y…yes…I'm okay," Parthavi stuttered. She moved away from Vyom quickly and thought to herself, "You are going crazy, Parthavi! He was just saving you. Don't think like that. Don't forget that he is just a guest. Don't get too attached."
By then, an auto arrived, and they got in to enjoy their destination. They left, but behind them, a storm was brewing in the form of a neighbor, Aunty. When Vyom pulled Parthavi close to save her, Ragini, who lived in their neighborhood, happened to be coming down. Seeing them close, her eyebrows furrowed. Ragini was famous in the neighborhood for spreading rumors. If something happened, she would exaggerate it. She had always been annoyed with Parthavi, and today she got an opportunity. Without delay, she changed her direction and went back up to Parthavi's house.
To be continued…
Parthavi and Vyom were moving forward in the auto.
"So where all will you show me today?"
"Today we will take you to the temple."
"Temple?"
"Yes... there are very old temples here which have a special place in our religious texts, Babu Ji... After that, we will take you to Zero Point," Parthavi said, looking at the road outside.
"Zero Point…!" Vyom had heard about this place, yet he wanted to hear it from Parthavi's mouth.
"You don't know Zero Point, Babu Ji?" Parthavi asked in surprise. So Vyom shook his head, lying.
"This is a very beautiful place, Babu Ji... Standing here you can see the peaks of the Himalayas." Parthavi's eyes lit up.
"You like all these places a lot. It seems you have traveled a lot," Vyom said, laughing.
Parthavi looked at Vyom and said, "We were born in these mountains, Babu Ji... we are familiar with every particle here." Parthavi laughed as she spoke.
"What happened? Why are you laughing?" Vyom asked, confused.
"Just like that."
"Tell me."
"Now if someone asks you about your city, you will give them information, right? That's why I laughed. You are so silly, you can't understand such a simple thing." Vyom smiled softly.
In a little while, both reached the temple. The temple was on high mountains. After climbing the mountain for a long time, both reached the temple. Vyom was astonished seeing the temple. An ancient but very beautiful temple... 'Jageshwar Temple'...
"According to mythology, it is believed that Lord Shiva took his child form here. Therefore, this temple is very special for Shiva devotees... there is a huge crowd of Shiva devotees here. You can see, Babu Ji, how crowded it is here," Parthavi began to speak like a guide, as always.
Both moved forward. Pushing their way through the crowd somehow, they reached in front of the idol. Vyom glanced at Parthavi, then joined his hands and thought, "Shiva Ji, you know very well why I came here, but Parthavi is drawing me towards you... I am slowly falling in love with her, or perhaps I have fallen in love with her... Resolve my dilemma, Shiva Ji."
Parthavi was talking to Shiva Ji without joining her hands, "What Shiva Ji, what is happening to me...? I am mad, you know everything... why does my condition change as soon as I see the city Babu?... Now you solve my dilemma. I am unable to resolve this confusion." She closed her eyes and opened them, taking a deep breath.
Vyom also opened his eyes after finishing his prayer, and his gaze met Parthavi's directly. Their eyes met, and this time the heartbeats of both became uncontrollable. Parthavi had received her answer, and as soon as she got the answer, she started avoiding Vyom's gaze, while Vyom smiled and looked at the idol of God, then smiled at Parthavi. He had received his answer; Parthavi was for him.
Both turned to leave, but suddenly the crowd increased so much and someone pushed Parthavi, causing her back to touch Vyom's chest. Parthavi felt a shiver. Conversely, Vyom extended his arms to protect her. Parthavi looked at Vyom with a jolt. Both were lost for a moment, looking at each other.
"Lajo, oh Lajo... where are you??" Rajni started calling from outside Lajjo's house door.
Lajjo was washing utensils. Hearing Rajni's voice, she said with a sour face, "She's here again... now I wonder who she's come to gossip about. Anyway, let's go and see."
Wiping her hands, she stood at the door and said, "What happened, Rajni? Why are you shouting like this?"
"Oh, what else can I do? You have no concern for your daughter. So we should also let it be. You've sent her to roam with a young man," Rajni just needed an opportunity, and she got it. She spoke with the speed of an arrow.
Lajjo got angry. She said in harsh words, "Look, Rajni... everyone knows you don't like Parthavi. That doesn't mean you should speak against my daughter. Understood?... Go back the way you came, or I will say such bad things that you won't even come to the doorstep again."
Rajni said with a sour face, "Oh, we were saying it for your own good, but what do we care? Go ahead and do whatever you want. If something untoward happens tomorrow, we will see too." Rajni mumbled and headed back the way she came.
In the temple, Vyom and Parthavi were so close that not even air could pass between them. Vyom came out with Parthavi by forming a circle with his arms. Parthavi's face had turned red. She said hesitantly, "Shall we go somewhere else, Babu Ji?"
"Wherever you take me," Vyom said, looking into her eyes. Parthavi shyly stepped back and, turning her back to him, said, "Don't talk like that, Babu Ji."
Vyom came close to her and whispered in her ear, "Why shouldn't I?"
"Just like that." Parthavi placed her hand on her chest. Vyom's proximity was enough to make her restless. Vyom smiled with a slight tilt of his lips and slowly stepped back.
After that, both visited different temples there. While they were wandering in the temple, seeing the crowd, Vyom gently placed his hand in Parthavi's palm. Parthavi looked at Vyom in surprise. Vyom was looking ahead, but sensing her gaze on him, he said, "Look ahead." Parthavi looked ahead, looking at her hand.
The plan was to go to Zero Point, but by the time they finished visiting the temples, it was getting evening. So, saying they would visit Zero Point tomorrow, both returned home. When Lajjo asked about the guide at mealtime, Vyom made an excuse and said, "Maybe I'll find one tomorrow. All the guides were busy today, Auntie."
Parthavi smiled at his lie. After eating, both came to their room. Climbing the stairs, Parthavi quietly asked Vyom, "Why did you lie to Amma?"
"If I didn't lie, how would I get to spend time with you?" Vyom said, looking at her intently. Parthavi blushed again and quickly ran into her room.
The next day, both visited Zero Point, and today, Vyom, despite not wanting to, arranged for a guide for himself. Parthavi also wanted to spend time with him, but she remained silent due to her mother. The next day onwards, Vyom started going out with the guide, and Parthavi went to her school...
For two-three days, she remained quiet. She was always lost in thought. Her heart was never really in her studies, and now all her attention was focused on being with Vyom. Eventually, Ratna asked her, "What's the matter, Parthavi? You seem a bit different these days."
"No... no, we haven't changed," Parthavi lied.
"You are lying to me, Parthavi," Ratna expressed her displeasure.
"Why would we lie to you?" Parthavi retorted.
Seeing her anger, Ratna said calmly, "You never paid much attention to studies before, but nowadays you don't even talk to me. You are always lost in thought. What's the matter, Parthavi?"
"It's not like that, Ratna. It's just that I don't feel like coming to school these days, and I'm not feeling very well either." Parthavi kept everything from Ratna.
Ratna understood that Parthavi was lying and wouldn't tell her now because she usually told her things herself when she wanted to. She decided it was better to remain silent.
When school ended, both reached home. Parthavi ate and went to her room to rest. Vyom used to come in the evening, so going there was pointless. Today, she really wanted to see Vyom.
She was lying with her eyes closed when she heard a rustling sound on the stairs and then the door opening. Without delay, she quickly ran out and saw Vyom standing at her door. Seeing him, all of Parthavi's fatigue vanished, and her eyes and face lit up with joy.
To be continued...
No response from Groq.
Vyom's words had slowly settled in Parthavi's heart. Innocent Parthavi, unaware of love, was drawn to him as if bound by some enchantment.
That night, after Vyom left, Parthavi thought about him for a long time. His coming near her, his smiling and talking to her, everything was a new and beautiful feeling for her.
The next day, as Vyom had told her, Parthavi feigned a stomach ache and took leave from school. Gyan also delayed his departure today so that he could take Parthavi along. To show Laajo, to go with Vyom, the poor Parthavi happily drank the bitter decoction.
When Vyom came downstairs, he pretended to be completely unaware of seeing Parthavi at home.
"Oh, Parthavi! You didn't go to school today?"
Parthavi felt like laughing, but she managed to suppress her laughter with great difficulty. She was about to say something when Laajo spoke first.
"I don't know, Vyom Babu has had a stomach ache since morning. When your father and brother come, I'll send her to the doctor." Simplicity also reflected in Laajo's voice. Parthavi was somewhat like her mother. Laajo didn't know much about deceit and trickery, but her advancing age had made her somewhat wise, and Parthavi, at this tender age, was quite naive.
"How is the pain now, Parthavi?" Vyom said, looking at Parthavi.
"It's fine after drinking the decoction, Babu Ji." Parthavi said what Vyom had taught her. Vyom smiled and said to Laajo, "Auntie, her pain is gone. If you don't mind, may I take her out for a stroll? She must be bored from studying so much."
"Oh no! Leave her here. If she goes, she'll bore you with her chatter." Laajo said, laughing. That was enough! Parthavi's face fell. She looked at her mother with displeasure.
Vyom laughed again at her childishness. He said to Laajo, trying to persuade her, "Oh no, Auntie! It's not like that. In fact, Parthavi tells me every little and big thing about this place. I like it when she is around."
"Alright, then." What else could Laajo say? She considered displeasing a guest as displeasing God. So she said yes.
Parthavi's sullen face immediately brightened, and she quickly went to change her clothes. Getting ready in a hurry, they both set out for a walk.
Far from home, as they came down, Parthavi said, laughing, "Wow, Babu Ji! What a good idea you had! I will have a lot of fun today."
Vyom just nodded in agreement.
While talking, Vyom decided that he would go shopping today. So Parthavi took him to Thana Bazaar. This market was a special attraction for tourists. Everything from special goods from the hill regions to local items was available here. Parthavi took Vyom to some good shops where he bought a lot. Parthavi was telling him about new things, like the regional outfits being sold there.
At one place, she said, "Babu Ji, this is the most famous fabric here, the Angora outfit."
"Oh!"
"Yes... it is made from the fur of rabbits here. It is very useful in the cold."
"Do you have one too?" Vyom asked, and Parthavi innocently shook her head no.
"Amma says they are very expensive, so Amma never buys them," Parthavi said. Vyom bought five shawls one by one. Seeing him buy so many shawls, Parthavi said, "Oh, Babu Ji! What will you do with so many shawls?"
"I liked them, so I'm buying them," Vyom said, laughing.
Parthavi started laughing. Vyom looked at her in confusion and said, "What is there to laugh about?"
"There is!" Parthavi said, stopping her laughter. When Vyom glared at her, Parthavi, suppressing her laughter again, said, "I am thinking about how you will look wearing five shawls at once." At the same time, she puffed out her cheeks and gestured with her hands spread out to look fat, and Vyom also burst out laughing.
Vyom bought a few more items and they started heading home. Parthavi kept teasing him the whole way about how he would look wearing five shawls at once, and Vyom kept laughing at her boldness.
The sun was about to set. The pink evening was making the beauty of the mountains even more attractive. Along with Parthavi's childishness and her talk, it was compelling Vyom to stay there.
Vyom had heard that the evenings in the mountains were beautiful, and today he was seeing it. The pink evenings, the lush green trees and plants looked like paradise.
They both walked up to the hillside. While talking, Parthavi's foot suddenly turned, and she was about to fall. Vyom quickly grabbed her wrist, but there was a thorny bush nearby, and Parthavi's arm got scratched, tearing her sleeve.
Vyom steadied Parthavi and said, flustered, "Are you alright?"
Parthavi made a sour face and said, "I'm fine, but this cloth is torn! Amma will scold me a lot! I tore this cloth." Parthavi would get flustered by small things as if a great disaster had occurred. Even now, she had become teary-eyed because her clothes were torn. Seeing her tearful face, Vyom said, "What happened? Why are you so scared?"
"You don't understand, Babu Ji! Amma will scold me. She got this new cloth made for me with great difficulty. And it tore because of my mistake." Parthavi started crying. Vyom looked around, took off his coat, and putting it on Parthavi's shoulder, said, "Stop crying. I will explain to Auntie. She won't scold you."
"Really?" Parthavi quickly wiped her tears. Vyom reassured her with a blink of his eyes and they walked home together. Parthavi felt comforted, but fear was still visible on her face.
Today, Ujjwal and Bapu had both come home early. They had arrived just a little while ago. It must have been a few minutes since they arrived when Parthavi and Vyom reached home. Everyone's eyes turned to them. Ujjwal, seeing Parthavi's tear-streaked face and Vyom's coat, understood something else entirely. He glared and said angrily, "What happened to you, Parthavi?" Innocent Parthavi got scared and was about to speak, but she stammered.
"B...Brother...that..." and started crying as she spoke. Ujjwal's mind went on high alert. Before the others could understand anything, Ujjwal grabbed Vyom by the collar and said, gritting his teeth, "What have you done to Parthavi? Why is she crying? Speak!"
Vyom was startled at first, then in anger, he forcefully pushed Ujjwal away and said, "Leave me! What kind of behavior is this?"
Ujjwal glanced at Parthavi, and Vyom's voice reached his ears. "On the way, she got scratched by a tree. She got scared that Amma would scold her, so she was crying. She is only crying now because of your angry voice, there is no other reason."
Ujjwal looked at Parthavi with questioning eyes. Parthavi nodded yes, crying. As soon as she nodded, Vyom walked out with quick steps and went upstairs.
As soon as he left, Ujjwal held his head in distress. Arvind Ji said angrily seeing this, "How many times have I told you to control your anger! But no! Have you ever listened to me? You have displeased the guest. Now if he leaves the house, you'll be searching for a new guest!"
Parthavi said innocently, "Brother... he saved me from falling. My kurta tore due to my mistake. He saved me from getting scolded by all of you! Then why did you get angry at him?"
Ujjwal forced a smile and looked at her, patting her cheeks, he said, "You rest. I will apologize to him."
"Really!"
"Yes... really." Ujjwal said, laughing, and Parthavi felt some relief from the tension.
When she came upstairs, Vyom's room door was closed. After waiting for a while, she went into her room.
To be continued...
No response from Groq.
Vyom had made every effort from his side, but Parthavi sat upset for some unknown reason.
Parthavi reached Ratna's house in anger. Ratna was getting ready. Seeing her, Ratna exclaimed in surprise, "Did the sun rise from the west today? Parthavi, you've arrived early?"
"I was ready, so I came. You get ready too." she said, forcing a smile. Ratna, without paying attention to her, said, "And have you done your homework today? You know, the history teacher is going to ask questions."
"Yes, I've done it," Parthavi replied reluctantly.
This time Ratna looked at her carefully. She found Parthavi a bit subdued. She tied her shoelaces and came near her.
"What happened? Are you okay?"
Hearing Ratna's voice, Parthavi looked at her and started crying in front of Ratna. Ratna became worried. She said nervously, "What happened Parthavi? Why are you crying? Did Amma say something? Parthavi, look, stop crying."
Parthavi's crying intensified. Ratna rushed to get water and, offering it to her, said, "First, you drink this. Drink it."
Parthavi drank the water. Ratna patted her back and said, "What happened Parthavi? Why are you crying like this?"
"Nothing. Come on, we'll be late for school," Parthavi said, wiping her tears. Before Ratna could ask, she turned towards the door. For the first time, she found Parthavi serious according to her age, and she felt bad seeing this. She liked Parthavi's childishness, and today so much seriousness didn't suit her.
Both arrived at school, and Parthavi remained quiet and lost in every class. She was there physically but not mentally. During lunchtime, Ratna brought her aside and said, "Parthavi, what's the matter? Why are you so quiet? Did someone say something to you?"
"No…!" Parthavi said softly.
Ratna was getting angry now. She grabbed Parthavi's arm tightly and said angrily, "Look Parthavi, tell me the truth, otherwise, I'll talk to your Amma when we get home."
Parthavi got scared. "Don't tell Amma, Ratna, she doesn't know anything."
"Then speak, what is it?" Ratna stood with her hands folded. Parthavi hesitated and told her about her conversation with Vyom and also that she felt something different for Vyom. Ratna held her head.
"Parthavi, so much has happened and you didn't even tell me why?"
"I thought you would get angry," Parthavi said innocently. Seeing her innocent face, Ratna said, "Firstly, don't look at me with such innocence. Sometimes your innocence feels like poison to me."
Parthavi said tearfully, "Ratna, why are you getting angry?" Seeing her tearful face, Ratna took a deep breath and controlled herself. She calmly sat Parthavi down on the campus and said casually, "Parthavi, you are very naive. You don't know the deceit happening in the world. Stay away from these outsiders."
"But they are very good, Ratna."
"Okay, I agree they are good, but tell me, they will leave tomorrow, whom will you search for then? And most importantly, where will you search? The farther you stay from this outsider gentleman, the better it will be for you, Parthavi," Ratna explained to her lovingly.
"Until I see them, I don't feel right, Ratna. I don't feel right without them now. I was upset with them for so many days, just because I liked them trying to appease me, but if I remain upset any longer, they will leave." Parthavi was compelled by her heart, and Ratna was compelled by her friendship.
"This is not right, Parthavi," Ratna emphasized her point.
Parthavi looked at her questioningly. "Why isn't it right, Ratna?"
Ratna said irritably, "Because they are outsiders, city dwellers. No matter how lovingly they talk to you, they won't marry you. There's no shortage of girls for them in the cities. You or we are nowhere suitable for their city environment."
"Babu Ji isn't like that, Ratna. Why are you saying that about him?" Parthavi didn't like Vyom being spoken ill of. Ratna felt pity for Parthavi. She decided to talk directly to Vyom.
She smiled at Parthavi and said, "Okay, if you don't like it, then let it be. I won't talk about your Babu Ji anymore." The innocent girl smiled.
When lunchtime ended, both attended classes and returned home.
When Parthavi went to change, Vyom's door was closed. She went straight into the room, changed, and came downstairs.
As soon as she came down, Lajo Ji gave her food and said without paying attention to her, "You'll come to the market with me in the evening. I need to get something for the city gentleman."
"Why? Why do you need to get something for him, Amma? When I ask for five rupees, you refuse me," Parthavi said irritably.
Lajo Ji retorted, "When will you get some sense? They are guests, and they have given us such expensive gifts, so shouldn't we give them something too?"
"By the way, it's a gift, not gifts, Amma. And secondly, we didn't ask them to give us anything. They gave it of their own accord," Parthavi was poisoning Lajo Ji's ears with her displeasure. She was also angry that he had brought something for everyone but nothing for her. Wow... what a friendship...
"Shut up, you blind fool. They are leaving tomorrow, you can keep sulking after they are gone." Lajo Ji was now angry, but Parthavi's heart skipped a beat.
Her city Babu Ji is leaving tomorrow? Are they really leaving? No… it can't be. They won't leave. She was lost in this turmoil when Lajo's voice reached her ears.
"They haven't gone out anywhere today either. They said they weren't feeling well. Go and see how they are feeling now." Parthavi glanced at her mother and, hiding her restlessness, said, "Let me eat, Amma."
"Alright, definitely go after eating. I'm going out for a bit, I have some work!" Lajo said and left. Now, no one was at home except Vyom and Parthavi.
Parthavi tried hard to eat, but her hunger had vanished. She pushed the plate away, leaving the food untouched.
After washing her hands, she quietly started climbing the stairs. The early winter sun felt good, but everything felt bad to her now. Thinking about many things, she knocked on Vyom's door.
After a while, the door opened. A sleepy face, messy hair. Seeing him, Parthavi forgot everything. She just stood there. Vyom said in a grumpy tone, "What happened? Why have you come?"
Parthavi's daze broke. She tried to hide her eagerness once again. "Amma said that you are not feeling well."
"Hmm… but what does that matter to you?" Vyom said indifferently. Parthavi's eyes welled up. Vyom had turned his back to her, so he couldn't see her tearful eyes.
"Don't say that, Babu Ji!" Parthavi's voice choked. Vyom said without turning, "Why do you care about me? Parthavi, I've been trying to appease you for fifteen days, but you don't even look at me. I'm leaving tomorrow. I have hurt your heart knowingly or unknowingly, please forgive me for that."
Vyom left the door open and walked ahead, but this statement made Parthavi restless. She panted and moved forward and hugged Vyom's back from behind. Vyom stopped where he was. Parthavi said, crying, "Don't say that, Babu Ji… I was just upset. You are leaving me here alone."
Hearing her voice, Vyom jerked away from her. Seeing her tears, his heart ached. "Man, stop crying. I can't see you crying, Parthavi."
Parthavi's crying intensified. Vyom looked around, then lifted Parthavi's face with his palms and said in a deep voice, "I tolerated your displeasure with great difficulty, but I cannot tolerate these tears, Parthavi. I don't know what your condition has been all these days, but today I am revealing the state of my heart to you. Your displeasure has tormented me every moment."
Parthavi's crying stopped. Vyom wiped her tears and said, "I can't say more than this, just know that my life is impossible without you now."
Parthavi's heart fluttered. She hesitantly said, "But you are leaving."
Vyom, without delay, leaned down to her face and said lovingly, "I won't go… I will go only when your Amma-Babu agrees to give you to me."
"Babu Ji…!" Parthavi's heart started beating faster. Shyly, she turned her face away, but Vyom was in a mood to cross all limits today. Without hesitation, he intertwined his finger with hers and said, "Promise me, you won't be angry with me anymore."
"Promise…!" Parthavi said, swallowing.
"You will never leave me." Vyom came closer to her. A shiver ran through Parthavi's body. She said in a low voice, "Never."
"And something else…!" Vyom came close to her face and rested his forehead against hers. For Parthavi, this was a moment that made her nervous, and she jerked away from Vyom.
Seeing her nervousness, Vyom laughed heartily and said, "You've gotten scared, you crazy girl."
Parthavi felt both angry at herself and amused. She said hesitantly, "I… I'll come later." And with that, she descended the stairs rapidly without waiting for Vyom's reply. Vyom let out a loud guffaw at her state, which Parthavi could clearly hear. But the very next moment, Parthavi collided with someone, and her happiness vanished into thin air.
To be continued…
No response from Groq.
Vyom had gotten permission to take Parthavi and Ujjwal along. Parthavi's restless heart was filled with joy. After dinner, everyone went to their rooms to sleep. But there was someone tossing and turning... it was Ratna. She kept turning, closing her eyes, and then sitting up restlessly.
After a while, she sat up. She first drank some water and sat down, holding her head. Some hazy memories flashed through her mind.
"Who are you...?"
"You are a liar, a cheat... you betrayed me."
"I never promised you anything."
"What can I do if you mistook my casual interest for love?"
"You never even said this was just casual."
"Oh! Let me go. I came here to make good memories. Don't give me sad memories by crying. Get out of my way."
Ratna shot up. She looked around; there was nothing but darkness. She wiped the tears from her eyes and walked out of the room, still pacing. Her gaze fell on Parthavi's room. Looking at Parthavi's room, she thought to herself, "No, Parthavi! I won't let you suffer what I have. You don't know the pain of separation, but I do... I know it very well. These outsiders come to pass the time and, after making promises with false affection, leave you crying and yearning. I will talk to Lajo Auntie tomorrow morning. It's just the beginning, an attraction; it's not too late. You will recover, but if you don't stop now, you'll break and shatter."
She glanced around. The silence of the night felt terrifying. Everything seemed covered in fog. She let out a cold sigh, looked at the dreadful night, and went back inside.
Not long after she went in, Vyom came out of his room. He had a bag in his hand. He gently knocked on Parthavi's door. After a moment, Parthavi opened the door, groggy. Seeing Vyom there, her sleep vanished.
"Babuji...?" Parthavi said loudly. Vyom, startled, put his hand over her mouth and pushed her inside.
Parthavi looked at him, frightened. Vyom's face was very close to hers. She blinked repeatedly, looking at Vyom. Vyom was also entangled in the web of her gaze. The decreasing distance between them was bringing them even closer. Neither of them knew what the outcome of this closeness would be, but everything in this journey felt wonderful.
"Hmm..." Parthavi gestured for Vyom to move his hand. Vyom first looked at his palm, then, flustered, pulled away from her.
"Are you going to hit me, Babuji? You closed my mouth so hard, I could barely breathe," Parthavi said, touching her face.
Vyom looked at her with strange eyes. Usually, girls would get shy in such a situation, and she was a peculiar specimen. Instead of running away, she was questioning him. Seeing Vyom's silence, Parthavi shifted her attention from herself to him and raised her eyebrows, saying, "What... what are you looking at like that? Don't do this again."
"Hmm, alright... you also don't shout again," Vyom said casually.
At his words, Parthavi again spoke loudly, "What do you mean, I...?" But Vyom placed his palm on her lips again and whispered, "Are you trying to get me killed? If someone sees us together at this hour, it will be very bad."
"What's bad about it, Babuji?" Vyom smacked his head. Whom was he trying to explain things to? Someone who knew nothing but childishness. He ignored her question and said, "Here, I brought this for you that day, but you got upset. You must wear this and come with me tomorrow."
"Really...?" Parthavi said, opening the bag to look. Her face lit up.
Seeing her so happy, Vyom wished her goodnight and returned to his room. As soon as he left, Parthavi clutched the clothes to her chest and became restless. She turned on her room light and stood in front of the mirror, holding the clothes close to herself. Her face turned rosy. Shyly, she looked at herself and imagined herself as Vyom's bride.
Parthavi sat in a traditional red dress, with Vyom sitting beside her in traditional clothes, looking at each other with longing glances. The glow and desire to possess each other enhanced the color of their faces. Parthavi covered her face, feeling shy, and put the clothes back in the bag before going to sleep. But who could sleep now? Vyom had taken everything from her.
As morning broke, after completing all their morning routines, Vyom, Parthavi, and Ujjwal set out together. Today, they were going to visit a village near Almora. Parthavi was very happy, and everyone could clearly see her joy. Vyom knew her happiness was due to going out with him, while Ujjwal thought Parthavi was so chirpy because she was going out after a long time. The three of them set off towards the village that was about to change the line of their destiny and their lives.
A little while after they left, Ratna arrived. Seeing her, Lajo Ji said, "Oh, Ratna! What are you doing here? You should have come earlier. Parthavi just left to visit a nearby village with Ujjwal and Vyom Babu."
"When did she go, Chachi?" Ratna asked flatly.
"Just about fifteen minutes ago."
"Oh... anyway, I didn't want to talk to Parthavi, but to you," Ratna said, slowly sitting on the bed.
"Tell me, what do you want to talk about? If you want me to put in a word for your mother, I won't do it, Ratna?" Lajo said while doing her work.
"I want to talk about Parthavi," Ratna's voice held hesitation.
Lajo became annoyed at her words. "Then why didn't you say so directly? You were scaring me. She must have done something at school. What can I do about it? I'm fed up with that girl because she doesn't study. Just let her finish her twelfth this time, somehow, then I'll get her married. I'll be free from her and her studies," Lajo vented her frustration.
"Not like that, Chachi. Come here, sit down, then I'll talk. It's important," Ratna said. Lajo looked at her, confused, and then came and stood in front of her.
"Speak, what do you want to talk about now?" Lajo said in a loud voice. Then Ratna, looking at her, said...
To be continued...
Ujjwal, Parthvi, and Vyom were proceeding towards their destination. After more than half an hour, they reached their destination, Simtola village.
As soon as they entered the village, Vyom's gaze was drawn to the greenery. Their auto stopped at the Simtola auto stand, and the three of them got down.
Looking around, Parthvi said, "Where have we come, Bhaiya? There's so much crowd everywhere."
Ujjwal had been here before with his friends, so he was familiar with the place. Smiling, he said, "This is the auto stand, Pagli. There will be crowds. The real beauty of this village is inside."
"Oh... okay." Vyom turned his face away and smiled.
The three of them moved forward, and after moving ahead, Parthvi truly saw the beauty. They were climbing up a slope. Roads had been carved out of the mountains, and numerous deodar trees lined these roads. Vyom took out his camera and started capturing pictures of the various scenic views.
The deodar trees lined up on the sides of the roads were captivating the attention of every passerby. Parthvi was looking at everything with excitement. As they climbed, they reached quite high and stopped in a field. Upon reaching the top, everyone took control of their panting breaths.
Once things settled down, Vyom raised his head, and as he did, he exclaimed involuntarily, "Wow... it's beautiful."
Everyone started looking. Dense deodar trees on distant mountains, clouds passing overhead, and the shining rays of the sun created a mesmerizing view. Ujjwal had seen all this before. He sat down comfortably on the grass and said, "This place is famous for its deodar trees. People come here for picnics."
"It's a very peaceful and beautiful place," Vyom said, taking out his camera.
Parthvi asked curiously, "Have you ever been here before, Bhaiya?"
"Yes, I come here with friends," Ujjwal replied nonchalantly.
Parthvi became engrossed in looking at the scenery again. Vyom was tired of taking photos. He thought there might be something else here, but apart from the dense deodar forests, there was nothing else. It was only 8:30 AM, and they had the whole day ahead of them.
He closed his camera and sat beside Ujjwal, asking, "How far is the Vasundhara waterfall from here?"
"It's very far, Vyom ji," Ujjwal said, thinking.
"Still, how far?"
"It will take six to eight hours from here," Ujjwal added.
"Alright, we'll all go there tomorrow," Vyom declared.
Ujjwal fell into thought. Hesitantly, he said, "How can we go tomorrow? I have duty tomorrow."
"And I have school too," Parthvi interjected. Ujjwal glared at her and said, "You won't go, Parthvi, it's very far from here."
Parthvi's face fell. She had heard a lot about the Vasundhara waterfall but had never been able to go. She had heard that the water of that waterfall does not fall on sinners, and it purifies those who have done virtuous deeds. She wanted to go there once, but Ujjwal had scolded her.
Vyom said, thinking, "Then fine, let's go today."
Ujjwal was perplexed. "How today? It won't be possible today. It's almost 9 o'clock. It will get very late returning. Traveling so far in the mountains at night is not advisable."
Vyom said impatiently, "Nothing will happen. Look, listen to me. I like to roam around with friends, and you two are my friends here. I won't go alone."
"But how?" Ujjwal couldn't figure it out.
Vyom said, calming him down, "Do any of your friends have a car?"
"Yes, they do."
"Then tell them to come here. If they have their own car and drive fast, they can reach here in 15 to 20 minutes. We will leave by 8:30 AM. If I drive, we'll reach there by 4 PM, see the waterfall, and return immediately."
Ujjwal was in a dilemma. "It will get very late, Vyom ji. Why take so much risk?"
"Man, you can do this much for me. If you don't want to go, don't. What about me? I'll roam around alone. I was alone before, and I'll go alone now." Vyom stood up.
Ujjwal, after some thought, called one of his friends and agreed to take the risk just for Vyom's sake, but it didn't work out.
"The car won't come today, it will come tomorrow, Babu Ji," Ujjwal said softly. Vyom said nothing. Ujjwal came to him and said, "Alright, don't worry. I'll take leave tomorrow, and we'll go sightseeing together."
Vyom smiled, but Parthvi's face fell. She didn't say anything to anyone. There was nothing else to see there, so after eating a little, they started heading back home.
Meanwhile, at home, Ratna sat down with Lajo, and as soon as she opened her mouth to speak, Ratna's mother, Narmada, arrived. "Hey girl, what are you doing here? Come on, your father is calling you."
Ratna frowned and closed her eyes. She said with annoyance, "I'm coming after talking to Lajo Chachi, Amma."
Narmada pulled her away from Lajo and said, "No, you can talk later. Your father is in a bit of a hurry, listen to him first."
Before Ratna could speak, Lajo said, "I'll talk to you later. You listen to your father first."
Ratna reluctantly said, "Okay." She got up and came with Narmada. Her father had to go to the fields. There was perhaps a lot of work there today, so he wanted to take her along. Ratna didn't want to go, but she had to.
An hour later, the three of them also returned, but Parthvi remained quiet the entire way. She just needed an excuse to study, and this was a good opportunity to skip school and be with Vyom, but Ujjwal had scolded her. Vyom felt something was amiss with her silence. He casually asked, "Why is this 'Rajdhani' so quiet today, Ujjwal?"
Ujjwal laughed hearing 'Rajdhani', while Parthvi glared at Vyom angrily. Vyom looked at her with a smile, and Parthvi turned her face away.
Ujjwal stroked her head and said, "Is she angry with me because I refused to go so far?"
"Oh, then take her," Vyom wanted to side with Parthvi. He immediately advocated for her.
Ujjwal immediately said, "Oh no, Babu Ji, it's too far, and on such a high hill, it's dangerous."
Vyom said laughingly, "With a brother like you, how can she be in danger? Take her, she's your darling, listen to her."
Ujjwal fell into thought. He turned and looked at Parthvi's sad face. He could see everything, except Parthvi's sadness. He agreed. As soon as he heard "Yes," Parthvi perked up and happily hugged Ujjwal.
To be continued...
Humans, when attracted to someone, mistake it for love... and in this delusion, they take steps towards where they shouldn't have... Is this love, or just attraction, what Parthvi and Vyom felt for each other? And the biggest question: did Vyom truly want Parthvi for himself? Did he truly love Parthvi, or was he just passing time, according to Ratna...? Whatever it was, only destiny knew how Vyom and Parthvi's relationship would progress and how far it would go...
They all returned home after their outing, and the next morning, they decided to visit Vasundhara Falls. Ratna spent her entire day in the fields. She still couldn't talk to Lajo. One day passed, and Parthvi was just waiting for the next morning.
In the morning, after all preparations were made, Vyom, Parthvi, Ujjwal, Ujjwal's friend, and his sister set off together. They all got into one car and embarked on their beautiful journey. A journey that was about to change the destiny of Parthvi and Vyom. An unknown storm awaited them, in which much was about to be destroyed. Unaware of the coming storm, everyone moved forward.
The morning chill, the light dew, the mountain paths, and the dense trees lining those paths looked enchanting as they were left behind. It was the first time Parthvi was going so far. Vyom was driving the car; however, from time to time, he would steal glances at Parthvi, who was sitting by the window, engrossed in watching the receding path. Sincerity, innocence, charm, beauty, captivating... every word meant for attraction, Vyom felt for Parthvi. They reached Mana village, having fun, singing, and dancing all the way. Mana is the last village in our country, which is quite small but very picturesque.
Vyom stopped the car there for a while. Everyone got out. It was a very beautiful place! Nestled amidst tall mountains, this small village was a center of attraction for tourists. Everywhere, tourists were taking pictures with their cameras. Vyom also took out his camera and started taking pictures of the place. They also took some pictures together. After stopping there for an hour and a half, everyone moved on towards Vasundhara Falls.
"We will reach on time," Vyom said, checking the time.
Everyone agreed.
They were about an hour away from Vasundhara Falls when suddenly the weather started to change. Dark clouds began to gather in the sky, and light winds started blowing. Seeing this, Ujjwal said worriedly, "The weather is deteriorating suddenly. It's not right to go there in this condition. This is a sign that we shouldn't go there."
"Then where will we go? We can't go back," Vyom said thoughtfully. He didn't believe much in religious omens, but the weather was changing, so they had to stop somewhere.
Ujjwal said after thinking, "Let's go back to Mana village for now. We'll see what happens when the weather clears up."
"Yes, that would be good!" Everyone liked Ujjwal's idea. But before the car could stop, the winds subsided, and the weather started to improve. Seeing this, everyone breathed a sigh of relief and continued their journey instead of turning back. Parthvi's mood suddenly became sad, and she sat quietly. For some reason, she wasn't feeling good anymore.
An hour later, they were in Badrinath. The weather there was a bit bad. There were no winds, but dark clouds were everywhere in the sky. Everyone looked at the weather with a smile and moved forward. Vasundhara Falls was somewhere beyond Badrinath. Asking for directions, they finally reached their destination.
Not at the falls, but at its base on the mountain. This waterfall, flowing from a height of 145 meters, was surrounded by snow-capped peaks and rocks on all sides. Everyone together tilted their heads up and watched the waterfall cascading from above. A smile appeared on everyone's face.
After resting for a while, they moved forward and started climbing the mountain. Parthvi was holding Ujjwal's hand as she moved forward. The weather was slowly changing, yet they didn't want to turn back after coming here.
They had only covered half the distance when light winds began to blow, and soon these winds turned into a storm.
"How did this storm start?"
Everyone was trying to steady themselves.
"Brother! I'm going to fall! Hold me!" Parthvi shouted. Vyom also came from the other side and stood there, shouting, "We should go down! As soon as possible!" Everyone agreed with him and started descending quickly, but the storm intensified. Meanwhile, a strong gust of wind came and shook them all. Despite trying to steady themselves, they all fell down. Parthvi was about to fall. Seeing this, Vyom grabbed her hand, pulled her towards him, and held her close to his chest, stopping there. He looked around. He spotted a large rock at some distance. Pulling Parthvi closer to himself, he said, "We should hide behind that rock."
"Let's go." Holding each other's hands, they managed to reach the rock with great difficulty. First, Vyom sat down and then told Parthvi to sit with him, holding her close to his chest. Parthvi started crying from fear. Vyom held her close to his chest. The storm was intensifying. Everyone was looking for a place to hide. Ujjwal, his friends, and his sister somehow made it down and got into the car.
Parthvi and Vyom were still trapped above. They were waiting for the storm to pass, but destiny had other plans. Within minutes, along with strong winds, heavy rain also started. Vyom and Parthvi began to get wet. The cold had already arrived, and now with the rain and wind, they started feeling cold. Vyom repeatedly held Parthvi in the embrace of his arms and looked for a hiding place. Since the days are shorter in winter, darkness began to fall gradually, and soon there was only darkness all around.
Ujjwal and the others, to escape the rain, got out of the car, seeking help, and reached a house, waiting for the rain to stop.
To be continued...
Vyom, Parthavi, Ujjwal, his friend, and his sister were all stranded at Vasundhara Falls. A torrential downpour had begun, accompanied by a storm. Everyone had scattered.
Except for Vyom and Parthavi, the other four had made their way down and taken shelter in a house to escape the rain.
When Ujjwal entered, a woman present in the house offered everyone towels, saying, "You're all drenched. Wipe yourselves dry first, and then I'll give you clothes to change into."
Ujjwal took a towel, but suddenly his mind went blank. He looked around and said loudly, "Where are Parthavi and Vyom?"
Everyone's hands froze. Ujjwal became agitated. He was about to step outside when the members of the house stopped him, saying, "Where are you going, son?"
"My sister... my sister isn't with me. I don't know where she went." Ujjwal's voice broke. The elderly man gestured outside, saying, "Look how fierce the storm is outside! It's like doomsday is approaching... It's not safe for you to go out in this weather."
Ujjwal flared up, "Why isn't it safe? My sister is out there... she needs me." He stormed out, but a strong gust of wind hit him, and he fell. Everyone rushed towards him. "You can't go, Ujjwal. It's not right for you to go," his friend reasoned.
The elder of the house said, "Storms like these happen here all the time, and they cause so much destruction. Someone always goes missing, or someone is embraced by the Alaknanda."
"No..." Ujjwal retorted angrily. His eyes welled up, thinking about his sister's condition.
The elder said, "If your sister made it down, she must be hiding somewhere like you, waiting for the rain to stop. And if she didn't make it down, then forget about her, because no one ever comes back from a fall from there."
Ujjwal felt as if his breath had stopped. All the moments from a little while ago flashed before his eyes.
Parthavi's laughter, her smile, and her innocence... Thinking of all this, tears streamed down his face. She was his only sister. Outside, the rain showed no sign of stopping; with time, its intensity only increased.
Lajo ji sat in the house, worried. Due to the deteriorating weather, Arvind ji had also not gone anywhere. It was the effect of the rain in Badrinath; here, light winds were blowing, and the sky was covered with dark clouds. News of the rain in Badrinath had reached everyone here, and everyone's mind had practically stopped working.
Lajo ji was beside herself with crying. Arvind ji was consoling her. Neither of their phones was connecting, nor had they received any calls.
Parthavi and Vyom sat huddled against a rock in the open sky. Cold, rain, and wind were forcing them closer together. Parthavi was shivering uncontrollably from the cold. Vyom looked up with difficulty; dark clouds were everywhere, and there was no sign of the rain abating.
Vyom looked at Parthavi; she was looking at him, shivering from the cold. As Vyom's gaze fell on her, she stammered, "D-do s-something... I'm v-very c-cold."
Vyom looked at her helplessly. Where could he go in such heavy rain? If he tried to climb up, his feet would naturally slip on the rainwater; it could be even more dangerous.
Without delay, Vyom took off his jacket and put it over Parthavi, but how long could a wet jacket protect her from the cold?
It had been two hours since they had been standing there, drenched. Now, even Vyom's endurance was waning. After thinking for a moment, he took off the muffler wrapped around his neck; he tied one end to Parthavi's wrist and the other end to his own.
Parthavi looked at him, shivering. Vyom patted her cheek and said, "Parthavi, hold onto me tightly. Let's go up; there must be some place to hide there."
Parthavi tightened her grip around his waist. As Vyom moved forward, his foot slipped, and he narrowly avoided falling. A gasp escaped Parthavi's lips.
"Are you okay?" Vyom asked, concerned.
"Yes, I'm fine, but your leg..." Parthavi was crying. This was the first time she was away from her family, and all this had happened today.
Vyom thought for a moment and asked Parthavi to take off her slippers; he himself started taking off his shoes and socks.
Parthavi did as she was told without any questions. After taking off her shoes and slippers, Vyom handed them to Parthavi and asked her to hold on again before standing up.
Vyom said gently, "Parthavi, no matter what happens, don't loosen your grip on me."
"Okay, Babuji," Parthavi replied, and Vyom started walking uphill stealthily. Parthavi followed him in the same manner. In between, Vyom would stumble, but Parthavi and he would support each other.
Managing to support themselves somehow, they moved a little higher. Parthavi's courage was beginning to fail; her body was stiff with cold. Vyom glanced at her condition and looked around.
Scanning the surroundings, he spotted a rock formation a short distance away, through which the outside view was visible.
Pointing in that direction, Vyom said, "Parthavi, we might find a hiding place there. Let's go there."
"Let's go," Parthavi said, and they walked forward to reach the rock.
Vyom moved ahead and saw that it was like a small cave where they could hide. It was slightly elevated, so rainwater was not coming inside.
"Come inside," Vyom said as he stepped inside.
Parthavi was scared. She said hesitantly, "It's very dark in here."
"This is better than standing outside and getting wet, Parthavi. Come inside, and I'm here with you," Vyom said, holding her hand.
Parthavi came inside, scared. The cave wasn't very big, but two people could hide comfortably there. Parthavi was also scared; she was shivering from the cold. However, there was some relief as they were no longer getting wet, and the effect of the strong winds outside was also lessened there.
Vyom reached into his pocket, took out his mobile, and turned on the flashlight.
Parthavi said in surprise, "This didn't get damaged by the rain?"
"No, it's waterproof," Vyom replied casually. In the mobile's light, he looked inside the cave; there were some stones lying there; some were dry, while some were slightly wet due to a little water seepage, but not so much that they couldn't be used.
Vyom handed the mobile to Parthavi and started gathering the stones.
Parthavi shivered and asked, "What are you doing?"
"I'll start a fire with these," Vyom said, continuing his work.
Parthavi joined him in collecting stones.
The cold was making both of them worse; their hands and feet were numb. It felt as if they would fall off, yet both kept trying. There were some dry twigs there; twigs from bushes too; some pieces of wood were lying around.
After collecting the stones, Vyom started rubbing them together. After about half an hour of effort, a spark emerged, and the dry grass and twigs caught fire. As the fire started, a gleam appeared on both their faces.
Vyom sat Parthavi down and said, "Give me your jacket."
"Here," Vyom took the jacket and placed it where they had entered. Now, the wind was completely blocked. They both came and sat in front of the fire, but with their clothes still wet, the warmth from the fire felt insufficient. They sat together, shivering from the cold. Vyom cast a glance at Parthavi and started unbuttoning his shirt.
To be continued...
Vyom glanced at Parthvi and began to unbutton his shirt.
Parthvi's eyes fell on him. She quickly covered her eyes with her hands and said, "Babu Ji, what are you doing? Why are you removing your shirt?"
A smile spread across Vyom's face, but he didn't want to disturb Parthvi at the moment. He casually said, "My clothes got wet, Parthvi. If I don't change, I'll catch a cold. You should also change."
"Oh, Goddess! What are you saying... what will I wear then?" Parthvi said, blushing. Vyom was amused. He explained to her, "Silly girl! Change your clothes and wrap your dupatta around yourself. I'll move aside for a bit. I promise I won't look at you."
"No, Babu Ji. I'm fine like this." Parthvi said, looking down.
Vyom couldn't force her to do otherwise. He ended the conversation there. Vyom removed his shirt and hung it on a nearby rock to dry, then sat back down in front of the fire. Parthvi was hesitant to look at him.
An awkward silence fell between them. Neither of them found it comfortable, but they didn't know what to say. It was unclear to both of them.
After a while, Parthvi started sneezing. Once, twice, and many more times. Vyom looked at her with concern and said, "You've caught a cold, haven't you? Change your clothes, Parthvi, or you'll get sick."
Parthvi looked at him with shy eyes. She hesitated. Vyom stood up, turned his back to her, and said, "Go ahead." Parthvi watched him for a moment, then slowly began to change her clothes. After a while, she wrapped her dupatta around herself like a garment and sat properly, saying, "I'm done."
Vyom turned around at the sound of her voice, but as soon as his eyes fell on Parthvi, he froze. With her wet hair, she looked captivating. He bowed his head and looked in another direction because if he continued to gaze at her for too long, he might get carried away, and that wouldn't be right.
Seeing him turn his gaze away, Parthvi blushed again. She became even more withdrawn.
This wasn't new for Vyom. In cities, girls often wore clothes that barely covered them. Some clothes only served to cover the body, but they revealed more than they concealed. However, in rural areas, modesty was valued. Women wore full attire and still looked beautiful; Vyom also believed that.
He strongly disliked the nudity that came under the guise of fashion and modernization. Perhaps that was why he was attracted to Parthvi.
The two sat in silence for a long time, hesitant to meet each other's eyes. Outside, the storm raged on, threatening to engulf the entire world. Here, the two sat alone.
Finally, Vyom broke the silence and said, "Tell me one thing, Parthvi."
"Ask away."
"Don't you fear me?" Vyom's question made Parthvi look at him with irritation.
"Why should I fear you, Babu Ji? Fear is for bad and dirty people. You're not like that." Parthvi said innocently.
"Alright... what are bad and dirty people like?" Vyom always enjoyed her words.
Parthvi said in her own style, "Our teacher once told us in class that if someone's touch makes you feel disgust or uneasy, and you're afraid to be in their presence, then they're dirty people."
"And...?"
"You make me feel very comfortable. You always save me from trouble. You never scold me or touch me inappropriately." Parthvi said, looking at the fire.
Vyom kept looking at her. After a while, he turned his face away and began to think.
"What happened? What are you thinking, Babu Ji?"
"Nothing." Vyom said with a smile. He started talking, "Okay, Parthvi. Do you know how to sing?"
"Yes, I do. Hindi songs."
"Then sing for me." Vyom said abruptly. Parthvi hesitated and said, "You won't like it."
"I like everything that comes from your mouth. Just sing." Vyom moved a bit closer.
Parthvi looked at the burning flames. Vyom had made a request like this for the first time. She couldn't refuse and sang whatever she could.
"You have come into my life like a spring
You have come into my life like a spring
You have come into my life like a spring
To reside in my heart like this, oh
To reside in my heart like this, you love-love being
You have come into my life like a spring
Your eyes are filled with a thousand dreams
Your eyes are filled with a thousand dreams
To reside in my heart like this, oh
To reside in my heart like this, you love-love being
You have come into my life like a spring
If I get upset, you console me
If I get upset, you console me
You took my hand and promised to hold it for life
Don't leave me after making a thousand promises
Don't leave me after making a thousand promises
To reside in my heart like this, oh
To reside in my heart like this, you love-love being
You have come into my life like a spring"
Vyom felt that Parthvi had poured every word from her heart, and it was all for him. Her eyes welled up with tears.
Parthvi sat still after finishing the song. The flames of the fire were now slowly dying down.
Vyom thought for a moment and then said, "Parthvi..."
"Hmm."
"I want to tell you something."
"Say it."
"No, not like this. Look at me first." Vyom turned her face towards him. Parthvi's eyes were turning red. She might be crying. Vyom got nervous and said, "Are you sad?"
"No, Babu Ji."
"Then why are your eyes red?" Vyom moved closer to her. The distance between them had disappeared. Neither of them noticed it.
Vyom looked at her with restlessness. Parthvi said with a choked voice, "You will leave after a few days, and thinking about it makes me sad. Everyone says that if a stranger leaves once, they don't come back. Our fate is written with waiting."
Vyom smiled and said, "Everyone says lies. I promise you today that when I leave, I'll take you with me, no matter what I have to do."
Parthvi's red eyes sparkled. A loud clap of thunder boomed outside. Parthvi moved closer to Vyom, scared. Vyom also pulled her into his arms.
Outside, the darkness of night had spread. It was raining. The storm was at its peak. The winds had picked up even more. Inside the cave, the burning flame had slowly dimmed and gone out.
In this situation, Vyom and Parthvi sat huddled in each other's arms.
Vyom didn't make any inappropriate moves that would shake Parthvi's trust. He kept her in his arms and fell asleep.
At Parthvi's house, Lajo Ji was in a state of despair, crying. There was no news of her children. The entire house was filled with grief. Ujjwal sat silently in that house, grieving for his sister. He couldn't cry or speak.
This night was different for everyone. Some were with their loved ones, while others were crying for their dear ones. What other colors this storm would show, only time would tell.
To be continued...
No response from Groq.
