F for Facebook Friend

The sun was particularly hot today. The heat was unbearable and yet I returned to office so that I could give details to the customer on time, but then my boss was in office. He always is, but that’s not the point today, it is about the events that unfolded.  He came to my desk as I was getting into the groove to provide details and asked,

“Hey! Ramesh, did you check my latest profile?”

“Erm… No I didn’t.”

“I know, I checked you haven’t liked it yet.”

“I will do once I send this to customer.”

“Oh! Yes, customer comes first but don’t forget I am your ‘internal customer,” and he went dancing back to his cabin. I’ve never liked Facebook as such but I have an account so that I don’t get stares from the world for not having one.  Anyway, I completed my work and logged in to FB and went to boss’s profile, liked his picture and returned to home page. Most of my friends screamed from their Facebook walls how awesome their lives are in foreign lands. Another of mine was waging a war against corruption and other matters that my country keeps on fighting with. He has also gone for candle march over some major crime incidence. I doubt he ever voted in any election. I prefer stay away from this hullabaloo.

I was about to log out when a chat window popped up,

“Hi Ramesh! I am sorry, I should not have done this to you,” the message was from some girl whose name was Shefali. I took a closer look at profile but I couldn’t place her in memory. We shared a common hometown but I’ve seldom travelled there in past ten years. I sat there thinking, the girl was at risk, anyone could fool her. She had not thought about consequences of sending out a message to a stranger. So I replied,

“Hi! Who are you looking for?”

“ Are you Ramesh Thakur from district Rajali?”

“ I am, but I am sure I have never met you.”

“L”

“You know it is dangerous to send messages to strangers. Some people might lead you on and they might do wrong things with you. I sat there tapping my table and waiting for response. I already missed to reach on time to catch an empty local to Virar.  I’d decided to wait until rush hour passes and crowd wanes. I could see the illuminating green dot  on chat window. I knew she was online and I wanted a response. I typed,

“I don’t mean to scare you and I am not a bad person. I am just trying to caution you.”

“J”

A brief overview of profile told the girl is suicidal and seemed to be very young. I’d some experience of Yahoo chat rooms. I gave her more confidence by giving her my information,

“I am Ramesh, 33 years old and a bachelor. I work in a major corporate in marketing. My mom thinks I will never find a bride. J”

“Hahaha, Thank you, I haven’t laughed in long time,”

The response was in broken English, I added vowels and consonants at various places, mentally to make sense of it. She continued,

“I have gone through worse already. I met a boy in my medical college who took ‘bad’ photographs of me. I thought he will marry me but all that was a lie. My family will never forgive me. I have lost all my friend.”

Bad, What does she mean? I looked up for synonyms of Bad on Google.  I thought of asking her but it might annoy her. Then it struck like a lightening to me, what must have happened to her and trust me I felt a knot in my stomach as soon as I realized what ‘bad’ photographs meant.

“You there?”

“Yes…”

“Police arrested that boy and he has been thrown out of from college. No one wants to talk to me. I deserve it; I should not have dumped Ramesh. He was my boyfriend in school. He never touched me L”

“Please, it is not your mistake.  You should move on in life. Take up a hobby maybe?”

“No, I must apologies to Ramesh even if I will need to ping each and every Ramesh on Facebook.”

I looked at screen and then at watch. Time had passed quickly. I told her I need to take a quick exit as I must reach home before mom lodges a missing person complaint. She laughed atleast I would like to think so and said a goodbye.

As soon as I got down at Virar station, I bought a smart phone which I had avoided for eons. I looked at my small handy un-smart mobile phone which had been with me for 5 years or more.  Such a beauty, long battery life, great reception and no-one steals it. But then I wanted Facebook for mobile. The Smart phone was operational by 11.00 pm in the night. So much for a smart phone, I thought. To my surprise, Shefali was still online.  I pinged her,

“Hey,”

I counted time. Finally a response,

“Hi, I have an exam tomorrow, studying.”

“So, Shall I...”

The message was sent before I could complete the sentence… I was about to write unfinished line when a message came from her,

“Do you have GF?”

“No, but I had once.”

I spent whole night chatting away about my past, present and future plans. She told me how nice Ramesh was, and how he left Rajali because she dumped him and all and how much she had wronged him. I sympathized her and gave her a window to speak her mind. We used to chat whenever we got time. This went on for a month, and I knew I wanted to marry her. I asked her number several times but she would not give me. And then in desperation and hope I gave her my number but we continued to chat on FB. I was in desperate need for advice on relationships as the ‘game’ had changed and I was at a dead end. I‘d no friends to turn to, frankly. 

One day she messaged, “I am in Mumbai and I want to meet you.”

I responded back, “Where are you? Tell me. I will come and receive you.”

I was in seventh heaven, she had come to accept my love. I planned and re-planned how I would propose her. I even bought a small ring for her. She was a short and slim, we would look like Amitabh-Jaya, a famous Bollywood couple, thought I. Oh! My mind raced and how. I finally got hold of my emotions and realized she had not responded. She was offline. In roaming one does search for a free Wi-Fi especially when they are student.  I remained optimistic, waiting for her reply.

An hour passed — no reply.

Another passed.

One more.

And then I stopped counting.

 

Finally, phone rang! For the first time I heard her voice and I went into trance. Her voice was angelic and sweet like her.  I have no memory of what she spoke in the two minute monologue until I was knocked out by the word— Marriage.

 

“We got married, Ramesh!”

“What?” I blurted out.

 “I am sending a photo, check. I wanted to meet you but I am at the Mumbai airport. I should go back and Mummy Papa.  Thank you, Ramesh for being there.”

I hung up, I am not sure if she was still talking. The picture took some time to load. Finally it did, it was a selfie, she wore red ethnic Indian attire and her boyfriend wore an ashen look on his face.  I was done with Social Media, once again.

E For Elocution

‘Is the elocution ready?’

‘Sir, you forget that the government has placed various restrictions on you and one of them is giving speech at public gathering.’

‘No! Dear Avanta. You are a naïve boy but honest and loyal and that is the reason you are in this room. What you do not know is the Chief of Guards is visiting us tonight for a general chat. You should know this is confidential; you must not utter a word of it.

‘Oh! Master, forgive me for my ignorance. I shall make arrangements for evening.’

***

My master is son of a late politician who went by a ‘title’ ‘Agranya’. Agarnya had raised to power with support our community Ravas who are a majority in our state. Our community all the time feel the threats from Shanks who control most businesses in the city but Shanks are a minority. My community’s people work for Shanks to earn their living but Shanks are shrewd people. They exploit and harass our community. They marry their daughters to the choicest of Ravas and convert them to Shankite. Agranya rose to this occasion and called for various rules and regulations.  He was one of the most respected politicians in my childhood. But he was killed, no one knows who did it, and his son was a natural successor of his position. The son is exact replica of Agranya in looks, voice, and demeanor but lacks generosity and humility of his father.  

When Agranya got killed, blood shot in our veins and we were ready to revolt. One word from our Master and we would have brought down the government. But, Master chose otherwise, he said he wants to respect law and order. He assured his time would come soon.

In past five years, the government has brought more resolutions against him than finding who murdered Agranya. My Master lives in a gleam hope that he will rise to power with the radical speeches he gives and our media keeps giving them the coverage from time to time.

But, I — Avanta do not have any hope. I want to exit this mayhem and today is my chance. There has been a riot in one part of the city where the poor Shanks and Ravas live. They have fought over some pity ritual.  The government, who mainly represent Ravas — want my master to confront Shanks. A message they want my master to convey in a public gathering. That is the reason ‘Chief Of Guards’ visiting.

He will offer more money and a few more gatherings where my master will bring attention to the corruption in government and life will return to normalcy in our state. The Ravas will go back to work for Shanks and Shanks will lay low for time being.

Me, I will leave this state with the money Chief of Guard will give me for my Master’s expense.  My Master doesn’t lose as he gets to give his Elocution.

D For Dilemma

Life was much easier when I’d to select which chocolate to eat or a few years later what career choices I must make.  I’ve been always proud of my decisions, always.  I knew the ‘My way’ song by heart and then he walked into my life. Suddenly my life’s decisions were not mine.  They were to be shared or approved.  He approved my friends on social media, my career decisions, and what should I wear.
I can’t remember when I slipped into this downward spiral but by the time I knew, I was in neck deep in this mess.  I want control of my life back but I can’t take it unless...  So, I did what I do best, ask him —

‘What would you do?’

‘About what?’

‘Say, you are caught in a trap, it’s a maze. Every time you think you are close to an exit but you are not.  But, then the devil makes you an offer. Will you accept it?’

‘I don’t often understand these abstract questions you ask. Did you take your pills?’

‘I will take them; you answer my ‘abstract’ question.’

‘It will depend on the offer, frankly.’

‘Give me an answer…please. I will take those meds if you give me an answer.’

‘Ok…If I am desperate I will take the offer.’

‘Yes, I am desperate.’

‘What?’

‘Ummm… nothing.’

And then I went ahead with my plan.

C For Creativity

I finally reached the village where she lived. I'd seen her painting in a hotel in the capital and in that moment I knew, only she could teach art to my son. It was one of the paintings sold during her first exhibition held in the capital.  The exhibition was a grand success, they say. But it was her last exhibition too. She was lost into oblivion— No one knows, why?  Her search had taken me to various artist, art dealers, and galleries. They all had many tales to tell about her, most amusing among them was — she was mystical. Then one day I met an artist who claimed to be one of her student and he told me how to find her.

The cottage was secluded from rest of the village. The villagers called her witch but a good witch, they clarified. They said her soup were magical which cured people's illness and were no less than elixir for the people on death bed. Frankly, I do not buy into such theories for one reason; I have been educated by my family at home. I know when human mind cannot explain science of it then they call it magic, divine, mystical or paranormal.  The driver of the carriage left me in front of a huge garden.

The garden in front of the house had grown wild. It must have been left as is for years. There were various trees and plants, many of them were fruit or flower bearing,  and  some medicinal.I could see the Rose bush had grown wide and met the Jasmine and a vine rapped both plants, but the vine had dried out, actually most of the plants were dry as autumn had arrived. The vines were all over the place covering the plants; I presumed they were mostly weed. On one of the vine though, a purple flower bloomed. It was like a bright spot, standing tall to tell that spring is around the corner.

The wooden door was slight open and I pushed in to get inside. On my way here, I practiced hundred times over that I would fall on her feet and ask to take my son as apprentice but now I was I two minds. The place looked wreaked and I was not sure if I will send my son here. I entered with bated breath.

 Sculptures were scattered around in randomly in hallway. The ducks rested on side table were made of wood, the lion near the door at times seemed to roar and at times appeared to welcome a visitor. The lion was carved out of Marble. On the table I saw a sculpture of a young woman with her both hands on her waist, happy woman, almost alive.

‘May I help you,’ I looked at my host who now stood in front of me. She was much older than I'd imagined, her thick grey hair tied in a bun. Her eyes were covered with thick glasses. Lines had shown up on her face displaying ageing. She was shorter than me. She wore a black robe with a belt around her waist. She walked with a support a stick, yes she was very old.

‘Oh! I am sorry to intrude but the door…’ my voice trailed off.

‘You look tired. It must have been a long journey. I will make a soup for you.’

‘Thank you, I said.’My cheeks were red with embarrassment.  I am a civil woman, I’ve been taught to knock on door but this cottage, and the garden drew me in. But, that cannot be an excuse. This is an intrusion and absolutely uncalled behaviour.

She returned from kitchen with a glass of water. I gulped it. To break the ice, she asked what do I think of the painting on the wall across.

‘I am not a person who knows art.’

‘Don’t fret, you do know.’

I moved towards the large painting and looked at it closely; it was a form of art not many can understand, including me. Colours were splashed all over which made no sense until I saw two women on corner peeking at me and little above it a light shimmering from a black hole, I moved  further left and all I saw went back to what it was — a splash of colour. I began to marvel at little things popped out for a few moments and again merged back into it. I’d seen nothing like it before. I turned to tell her but realised she must know what she had drawn.

‘Here, the soup is ready.’

The soup lived upto its glory as told by one of her student and the villager. ‘This tastes magical,’ I said for lack of better metaphor.

The woman smiled and I was now completely at ease. I explained her that I would like my son to learn art from her.

‘It is not important,’ said she. She took my palms in her frail hands. She moved it them on me.

‘You look like an educated woman, a rarity these days.’

 I nodded.

‘Have you ever drawn?’

‘Oh! I cannot draw or carve anything. I am terrible. I am not creative.’

Do you play music?

‘I used to drum during the songs but nothing formal.’

‘So, you must be a singer.’

 I nodded in negation.  She is going to refuse apprenticeship to my son.

 ‘You have nice round fingers, and I know they told you long ago that you can’t draw, sing or play.’

I looked at her in astonishment and my eyes had welled up.  She was right in her observation, every time I picked up a hobby people laughed or coerced me into why I won’t be able to do it.

‘I think today’s lesson is over. Come back tomorrow with luggage.’

I got up, I couldn’t thank her enough.

A for Age

'Get this start-up below our belt,' I heard my boss as I got out of his car.

I turned to correct him to 'under our belt' but I stopped midway. Sanity got better off me, because I'd learned the golden rule — boss knows better than me. So, I just waved a good bye and said,

‘I never fail.’

‘Yes, After all you are coming of age, I can see. All the best.’

I went up to sixth floor swanky commercial complex where the prey waited for me. I was in great form and everything I touched these days turned to gold. I was smiling from ear to ear. This would be another feather in my cap.

 I headed to washroom as I always do to calm ‘bubbling kid’ in me, before the final negotiation and closed my eyes and remembered my first order as sales person. The first order I took was very special, I’d grabbed it single handedly from a major corporate without asking for help from seniors at my price. I’d confidently answered all queries which had all the right ‘words’ like brand, local service, quality standard etc.  I was a brainwashed kid then.

I opened my eyes looked at me in mirror and did a final touch up. I did appear older now. As I walked out of the washroom I saw a young girl accompany me.

She was me, oh! What an ugly face, thought I.

‘But I have a soul,’ said the younger me

‘Why did you come here, I came to see Nita who is coming of age.’

‘What do you think?’

‘Oh! You look pretty for the ugly mind of yours.’

That hurt! ‘What do you want?’

We had now reached the conference room and I was about to enter when she said,

‘These kids are honest bunch, they believe you and they believe in their business model, you will destroy them. Don't do it.”

‘They need money to stay afloat and anyone who will pay them will exploit them, then why shouldn’t I?”

And I went in. I saw her silhouette outside the room.

In the room sat young Karan with his attorney and partner. When I had met twenty two year old Karan for first time, I joked who names a kid— ‘Karan,’ and he had responded innocently his parents.

Today, His silky hair was moved in various directions and he wore rather somber colored blue blazer unlike stark black  which I wore.  He looked ‘cool’ in modern sense but he was much cooler and humble person.  I’d grown fond of him. I never let professional relationships interfere with my personal space but I’d like to meet Karan as a friend when we complete the deal.

I pushed agreement papers towards Karan which he gave it to his lawyer for a glance. The silhouette was still there. I was now feeling anxious. Karan spoke,

 '80% of founder leaves their start up after VCs takeover.'

'True.'

Karan looked at me, searching my eyes for an answer and I felt naked, those 1000 smart answers had deserted me. The silhouette seemed to smile cunningly.

Their lawyer gave a nod to papers; Karan signed them and walked towards me for customary handshake.

'I hope we are in good hands'

As I stood, I could feel my body wobble and finally words found me,

'No you are not and you won't be.' I tore the paper he signed in four parts. You should look for help within.  And I walked out of the conference room.

Once in open air I felt better looked at the sky – Yes, I have finally come of age.

Serendipitous Love - Ep07 (Finale)

Lal had met Krutika and explained her was expected of her. He also said she was in position to refuse and there was no compulsion as such. Lal also said something like Krutika has a bright future in industry. She couldn’t be sure.  Lal was willing to pay her a lakh or so to do the part.  Her friend argued she is taking an easy way out. Krutika knew that the financial condition at her home was no good and this money could be breather for her family. She called up Lal,

“I accept your offer.”

“Great, I will tell you time, date and place of shooting.”

Lal also called up Dhairya Khurana and told him he has found a heroine who would not disappoint him. Lal hoped to get a meaty output from shooting.

The shooting location was one of the shady studios in film city. It was actually not a studio. It was a  stable and it stank.  As per Dhairya’s requirement of anonymity the lights were kept low at the shoot. Krutika was advised to stand at particular place, naked. She had done as they told her. Lal as a habit never watched these shooting so he sat in one of the offices.

Camera rolled, Dhairya was also standing naked in front of Krutika. They were to move closer and then they were to make out on a mattress lay aside.

Dhairya and Krutika walked slowly towards each other. As they walked closer to each other a line of sweat dripped from Krutika’s naval. Dhairya saw the sweat drip. Now, they stood a little lesser than a foot to each other, barely able to make out each other’s face, they could hear each other’s heavy breath. There in that moment they forgot there is a camera watching them.  All they wanted was to feel each other. It was magical.

Dhairya’s hand moved to touch her naval to feel her skin, he moved his finger around it. Krutika’s body responded to the touch as if it played to cadence of music. Her hands had moved to feel the chest. Their rhythm to discover each other was broken by the noise outside the studio. Media had raided the studio. Immediately, Lights were switched on and horror swept Dhiarya’s face. He picked up his clothe and ran covering himself in hooded shirt. Krutika was slower, and the media which arrived there caught her on camera.

Dhairya escaped, Krutika couldn’t. 

Dhairya was brought home by his parent’s in time. As it dawned upon him – he dropped his face in his palm.  Krutika was the woman he had fell in love with and he had left her to be gorged by media. The TV ran stories of her most of which were untrue.  

The day couldn't get any more worse. To fall in love in a moment and to be thrown like a trash can in next. Her friend tried to sympathize with her but she was news on national TV. Back home her family must be suffering shaming from society. At that instant death indeed looked like an option.

But, as fate took another turn, Dhairya arrived at her doorstep that evening and escaped with her. Away from his parents and her society, glamour, and media attention. They ran.

Serendipitous Love - Ep04

Ep03 here

Over next three days Lal met many girls, but he didn’t find the 'type' until he was back to Café Catalanta

“Hey !” , Lal called out to a fellow agent Fenny .

 Fenny was agent who would pitch work for strugglers to production houses . He had not made any big shots but he did okay. Atleast Fenny would like to believe it that way.

"Hello, Lal ! What brings you here?", asked Fenny. Fenny despised Lal for the work he did , however it would never show on his face. Fenny was too polite.

“ I need your help , I’ve been looking for a heroine. Yash Saab type,  Do you have that type ?” , Fenny  giggled .

 “Since when did you looked for a ‘type’” , Fenny gestured both hands in air depicting inverted coma on type.

 Lal grinned, unabashedly displaying his stained teeth. He said , “ Fennybhai ,  I have very top secret project to work upon, you know my clientele.” Lal’s unbrazen  demeanour only disgusted Fenny . The Bald, tall fellow excused himself from Lal’s company.

Fenny  is a nice man , he would never wish any woman to land up Lal’s offer  however in need they might be.  Fenny left an album behind in his hasty exit. The album was noticed by Lal and he grinned again; even the waiter who cleared the table found Lal as one of the most disgusting customer ever served.Lal  knew that this girl would star in his next project with Dhairya Khurana .

Time had come to fill Dhairya’s pocket again.

Ep05 here

Serendipitous Love - Ep03

EP02 here

There was one more person , who was watching the drama unfold . She was Anu , an entertainment reporter for TV channel .  She knew whom to call .

Dhairya , looked at the packet in his hand . He thought what a fool am I?  This phase will be over . I will be back . I must return this , I can’t act in Lal’s movie . He was about to take a U-turn to café but someone knocked on the window pane . It was a familiar face .

Dhairya looked at the smaller packet pedestrian held. Just what I needed , thought Dhairya.  There was quick exchange of packets between an ordinary looking boy and a superstar.

His parents were shocked, when the housemaid found him doped out in their house. Dhairya’s parents had cut off all the resources from where Dhairya could borrow . His agent was kicked out, his bank account was fozen and the limits on cards were reduced. Dhairya had evaporated his hard earned money already, and the parents had ensured there are no buyers for the investment he had made in certain real estate.  But, busy they were, thought of rehab & counseling didn’t cross their mind.

They won’t know anything until Dhairya comes to senses .

Lal, on the other hand couldn’t believe his luck. Not that he had ever roped an A-lister to do the job, but Dhairya was most handsome among them, and he had come to him pretty early.  

Lal needed a heroine, clumsy yet beautiful. He had already pictured the type he needed. The catch was such girls don’t want to take acting as career. So he decided to go for the best bet. He spent a lot of time finding a girl suitable for the part he wanted her to play . he had covered at least three agents who were borderline pimps for the elite . The only discourse Lal had , “atleast they had willing sellers.”

Serendipitous Love - Ep02

The waiter served him the coffee and sheepishly slid a tissue paper and stood there .  Dhairya looked at him confused , The waiter grinned sheepishly and said "Autograph please" , Dhairya had strong urge to throw coffee on waiter's face. But , but it was a bright sober morning and he had no intention to be the easy meat for media hounds . He had spotted atleast three of them in the crowd.

He appeared more jovial than usual and took Selfie with the waiter. This day is certainly going down the history, thought the waiter.

Mohan Lal was a middle aged fellow who earned his bread by making C grade movies. He was a despised man in the industry . In public , no one would associate with him  however in private a lot of A -listers courted him. He arrived on time to meet Dhairya who had begun to enjoy the coffee served.

Dhairya had relaxed himself in the cane chair so he didn't bother to shake hands with Mohan Lal. He as a courtesy did not offer him any kind of greeting. 

Mohanlal was used to such treatment
He took the chair and enthusiasticay begun the conversation :

"The work I have for you will place you in the league of top actors." said Lal , whose stained teath & lips disgusted Dhairya.

" Look I know you are incapable of producing anything that would be critical acclaimed and I know you don't have a script too . What I need is money , and in your case complete anonymity" Dhairya had begun to feel restless , he needed a dope to control his anger . 

Lal sat there quiet , he appeared to be lost in thought then he removed a packet of notes from the black pouch which was held by the wrist . He said "This is your advance money , I will call you in few days."

Dhairya flicked packet and left , Lal paid for the coffee.

Ep03 here

Serendipitous Love - Ep01

Note : Since I am participating in a giveaway , I have decided to create a episodic story on my blog in order to keep the readers interested .

******

He was sitting in midst of prying eyes at a cafe near Juhu. This cafe was frequented by strugglers seeking role in cinema and TV . This was not his place , he was more used to a restaurant or coffee shop in the five star hotel just across the cafe . He looked disheveled , the top three buttons of the shirt were open. But his attire was perfect for a summer morning in Mumbai  ,a sky blue printed shirt & jeans.

He sat in the garden area of the cafe waiting for his coffee and a fellow . The mangaer and waiter had hustled in the corner .

"What do you think he is doing here ?" asked the manager.
" How  would I know ? " but he appears quaint , said the waiter.
" I just hope we get through the day." said the manager, looking at the crowd gathered .

The sight of Dhairya , a famous movie actor was  blissful to many . Dhairya was handsome , young and a rising star until a few months ago . He had had shot to fame with sky rocket speed . The fame did adulate him and the the wrong choices brought him on the street , not literally though.  He belonged to a family where acting prowess ran in the bloodline of the family .  His both parents were fine actors.  In past few months all his movies crashed , his girlfriend had dumped him , and he took up drugs .  Now , he needed  work of  'any type' to sustain his new habit .Dhairya Khurana sat in Cafe Catalanta waiting for a "no one" from Industry and under his breath he cursed the same crowd who were gnawing him.

Ep02 here

The Neckpiece

Note : The Content below is rated as Adult

She was yet again waiting for him. Once again he was exceptionally late.  Shipra called him to know his whereabouts.  He replied that he is in marketplace and he would take some more time to reach home. Her hopes rose over a thought that he might return with a surprise gift. This was not the first time she had let the horses fly. She was used to being disappointed.  Theirs wasn’t a lack luster relationship.  The world knew them as loving and devoted couple. In reality they lacked compatibility and they had been pretentious for long time .  It was matter of time when one of them would point finger at compatibility issue. Atleast that’s what normal couples would do, she thought.

There was a knock on door.  She looked at clock; it was exactly 9.00 pm. She thought, quite a longtime to travel a distance of 7 km.  She shrugged, opened the door and stepped aside. He came in and went to Bedroom, her eyes followed him. There, she spotted. That’s my surprise gift. It was bag from a leading jeweler’s shop .She looked forward to a romantic night.  

They had no conversation, whatsoever.  The fight on previous night was pretty intense and silence in the house added to queer environment of the house.  She served dinner for both of them and they ate without any conversation. He was his usual and regular. It didn’t seem that he carried any sort of remorse from previous night.  The TV was still on , it played something , mostly noise . 

Her all thoughts had been at the jewelry bag in bedroom.  Finally, he understood. She was not collector of jewelry but this small gesture meant a lot to her. She imagined herself wearing the jewel bought tonight. Only the jewel. He would make love to her again and again.  This thought made her rush through post dinner activities. She was all set for tonight. It was going to be most memorable night, more than their first night.

His demeanor was different though. He was intrigued in some sports on TV.  He settled himself on couch after dinner. She waited for him in Bedroom, naked. She could hardly contain her excitement. She sneaked into hallway from bedroom; there were no signs of him retiring to the bed soon. The TV still made some noise .She decided; she would surprise him with the neckpiece, which he got for her. She hoped that it was a neckpiece.

She got up from the bed and took out the jewelry bag. More than jewel, it contained key to their estranged marriage. She could not further conceal her excitement, she removed box from the Bag. Her heart was racing. He had come and stood behind her , a few inches away . She felt him. Her heart pounded more. This was indeed turning out to be an exciting night . She opened the box , it  indeed contained a  unique neckpiece.  It was grey black , round and had a pendant . She touched, it felt like snake. Nonetheless, it was beautiful. It was her gift.  She brought her hair forward on her breast, removed the neckpiece , and kept the box on dressing table. She looked at it admiration and love .  She thought she saw the neckpiece elucidate light. It was hardly matter of time when she would put it around her neck and make love to him.

All this time, he had been observing from behind. In that moment, he wanted to caress her flawless back. But this was not the moment.  She turned and handed it to him ,  the piece sent down the shiver through him . She turned again and waited in anticipation. His hands came on shoulder from both sides. Every touch was sensuous. He put it around her neck and locked. She looked herself in the mirror. In the dim light , she saw her figure , curves like a snake moving to hunt a kill . Soon the neckpiece clutched her, she could hardly breath. It spiraled around her neck, leaving no space to breath.  In seconds she was on ground, dead.  The spiraled neckpiece returned to its original round shape, with the pendant which would delude one to think it as snake’s head. He looked over her body, and thought now we can make love .

The Skirt

Me: Mom, How is this skirt ?

Mom: This skirt would fit Aniket's 4 year old perfectly well .

Me : err ... This shop doesn't sell Children's Apparel

Mom : Oh ! wait. ‪#‎micro‬

Gift

She was getting ready, when she saw those earrings placed on dressing table .She put them on and checked in mirror. They were not real diamonds, though it looked good.  Her thoughts traveled to O'Henry's "Gift of Magi."  A beautiful story of love and sacrifice. A year ago she would think, how Jim and Della made futile efforts for each other. Only if Jim and Della talked to each other and coordinated. But then today these 10 bucks earrings weigh more than world's heaviest stone. They now weigh on her soul. As Riddhima got ready to conclude first job, a tear fell from her eyes.

Ashish was a ghost. He didn't exist on papers. Ashish had rather achieved a unique fiat in India. He had brought all the investigation agencies of India together to flush him out. He smiled on this thought but the agencies were still on a wild goose chase. Today was a remarkable day. He would buy something special for Riddhima. Riddhima, the innocent young girl unaware of world's treachery. He also had one last job to do and he would get papers. He had it all planned, he would vanish in thin air with Riddhima.  He would tell her everything today.

Riddhima dialed his number, from a line which no one tracked. She had an opportunity to tell him about the trap lay ahead. But the courage left her all alone in this battle. He was a paranoid fellow, when they met first. He was like wind the always changing places. But Riddhima was a sharp woman, she figured his movements and later his trust on her had grown manifolds .He would never lie to her. So, it had been easy to track Ashish for past six months. They decided to meet around 5.00 at coffee shop.  She called her team and said meeting is scheduled at 4.00.

The whole area around Citymall was cordoned off by the agency. The central agency was tracking Ashish for a year now with the help of Riddhima who was a local cop. Ashish was wanted for 11 murders in past three years.  He had killed cops , news traders ,billionaires . He worked for a high profile group. A group that knew Governments, Companies and Mafia. Riddhima wondered if Ashish ever had an idea about the group. Like Ashish , the group was a ghost too and they were untouchable . The agency could only eliminate people like Ashish and cut the chain, slow them down.

The mall was quarantined. Every shop was occupied by cops. At 3.30, Rididhima was in her police van tracking movements around mall, and hoped agency would move on over her false tip. But fate had brought Ashish there early. Riddhima froze as she saw Ashish walking down the road on her laptop. 

Ashish was a happy man. He was so consumed from within that he didn't notice the changes around him. Tea stall hawker looked bright, the road had minimum traffic. A professional would have sniffed the trap but love. He was not expecting Riddhima anytime soon. He planned to buy a ring to propose her. He intended to buy many more things for her. In the coffee shop, Riddhima was growing restless. She called Ashish; this would be their last conversation. "Hi!" As Ashish heard her voice, he raised his head. He noticed every bit of agency’s preparation.  He felt a sudden pang from within, no the bullet didn't hit him. He now saw what lay ahead.  So, she is a prop or she planned everything, thought Ashish .She spoke again," Ashish, don’t"." He cut the conversation there and begun to walk towards the Citymall. Almost everyone from agency was having a clear shot at Ashish. They were waiting for a go from Riddhima.

But Riddhima couldn't give a go ahead.

As he walked towards cafe, Riddhima walked out in  police uniform with  gun in hand .She shot him.

Fiona's Mother

Fiona was 7-8 years old girl when people begun to call her freak. At least it was the time Fiona realised she didn't fit.  The classmates won't play with her. She rather loved time in her garden where she grew. She was thin with long messy hair.  Her mother left her when she was very young, probably a day old . Her father would go to sea for trip. She wondered, why?  He wouldn't see Fiona for days or months.  She asked her Nanny,"Why does Dadda go there, pointing at sea from their house?" “ That his job like taking care of you is my job." said Nanny.

Her father had managed to find investors for his trips. Some were interested in treasure hidden underneath a sea. Some would want to know about the rare species that lived in there. The sea provided innumerable opportunities to David, Fiona's father. That day he returned home, after a month. But he had no time to see Fiona.  

He directly went to his study in the house.  He studied the map and felt he was so close to it, yet he had to return.  There was a forecast was for storm.

Fiona was in garden, when Nanny called out to her. She told Fiona about her dad's arrival. At once Fiona ran to her father's study. She stood there looking at her dad and wondered if she would ever know why dad goes to sea. Her father David turned around, he was wearing a crimson blue shirt and khaki pants. He was in late 30s. He was tanned. David looked at his daughter and he thought his daughter had grown up so much. He asked her "Would you like to take a walk on beach?" Fiona was ready at once. 

Both of them were strolling on beach with Nanny watching from distance. Nanny hoped to see such walks more. It would help Fiona. Nanny knew about Fiona's dreaming habit at school.  She never mentioned it to David , as he was busy . She knew she can't keep all this hidden from David for long and even David also won't stay away from his daughter for long.

The duo of daughter and father were walking silently until Fiona broke the silence. "Dad, why do you love sea so much?" but David was lost in his geographical calculations. Fiona called out louder “Dad ?" which finally interrupted his flow of calculations. She repeated her question. David kneel down to Fiona, and said "I am searching or your mother. She went to Sea." The sirens came off indicating to vacate the beach in anticipation of storm.

They returned home, it was early evening and Nanny had cooked a handsome meal for much starved David. David complimented Nanny for delicious offerings. "Where is mom?”Asked Fiona. Nanny begun to interrupt her but David stopped Nanny. Nanny was certainly worried. David said, "Fiona, your mom is a very special woman. I met her here, right on the beach. She was fair just like you, she had same long black hair.  She was a very kind woman. She was the one who brought Nanny home. Our neighbors adored her .We lived very happily for a very long time.  " 

"Why did she go dad? She didn't like me?" asked little girl. Nanny's heart cringed .She was old woman and all her life she had struggled to give little smiles to Fiona. But David was blinded by his obsession for Gweyn, thought Nanny. Nanny was thinking, “Gweyn who probably killed herself, a fact from which David ran. Why is he now letting Fiona feel the pain of Gweyn's absence? ” 

David spoke while directing Nanny to sit quiet on sofa. “No, Fiona, your mom didn't hate you. I feel she had an obligation to fulfill, hence she left. I believe she would return someday. I go to look out for her, because sometimes I feel she might lose her way back home. I am going to sea again, once the storm settles. I feel, I finally found he home.” Nanny could hardly comprehend what David was saying.  He looked at Nanny, “I will be going with a troop on a ship. This is a duly government authorized trip. I will be insured.” Nanny knew what the last line meant.  Fiona said “will you bring Mom home.” David looked at Fiona and said, “Lets hope.” Fiona said I will also come to which David replied “we will see.”

He put his daughter to bed and went to his study. He had begun preparing for most dangerous trip of his life. He hoped to meet Gweyn soon.

Deal with the Devil

Dian was walking down the lane to her home after a "no holds barred" quarrel with her boyfriend Jerry. Jerry was anticipating this quarrel for long and now he was a relieved man. He can move on . But Dian, her world had shattered. She had been crying all the way to her home. Everyone looked at her. Her eye liner has smudged, Foundation worn of  and Hair was messy.  And to top things, a thief came from nowhere ,snatched her bag and sped away on bike. She ran,but it was futile. It was dark, and the bag snatcher had vanished. She returned to her lane more consciously when she noticed a lot of women standing by and she thought, “Oh !they are there.”

A voice called and said "Yes, they are there.but by choice." Diana turned around and saw a magnificent woman standing behind. No words could contain her beauty.  She said "Did I say it loud ?" No ofcourse not girl, said the woman . Diana was 24 or 25 years old and the other woman was certainly older yet she was not motherly old. The older woman called herself Dafney.

"I see your pain. Dian, I saw it coming," said Dafney. Dian was confused, "who are you ?"and Dafney said, "I want to help you. Don't ask me who am I?" Dian looked, now sitting on one of the benches,trying to recall what were her feelings. Did something die within? What is it? Dafneyfelt pity for Dian's  heartbroken soul.  Dian was one of the few innocent souls left on earth. The oneswho distribute happiness to her. It was unfair on God's part to let the girl endure so much of pain.
Dafney's face had softened, her eyes welled up.  She said , "Dian,  just wish once that Jerry stays with you, forever . Just wish it once."  Dian asked,"Ändyou would grant me  my wish."Dafney  smiled "Yes!" Dian thought for a while and said "I want to fall in love again, that is my wish." “Someday you will”, said Dafney and took leave . Dian felt much better though the identity of Dafney remained unknown to her. Dian went down her lane.

Out of nowhere a man came and sat beside Dafney. Dafney was wearing the forlorn look."So,  you took all her sadness," said the God to his lovely wife . The Goddess said," She wanted to fall in love, again."They both sat there with her head on his shoulder. He changed her view to a sunset who would rise again tomorrow. She gave a vain smile.

Dian found her bag left at the fence with everything in place. It was a weird night and she hoped she didn't have to deal with devil. 

Rape Injection

Yesterday I went to same bar where  I met Dhoni last time . I know I should not rake up pinching 4-0 defeat to England at this so happy juncture but  I thought I might spot our Harry Potter again after India has barged into QFs of World cup'15 . But I met someone else , he was not a cricketer nor any other celebrity . I met a Scientist from India , he called himself Charlie .

Charlie looked completely sane to me , yet  there was a different aura around him.  He looked ecstatic . I guess he was drunk.  He seemed to be blabbering some thing when I caught the word "Rape" . Alarmed I decided confront Charlie and the conversation begun:

 Me: Excuse me , I just heard you saying the word "rape" . What do you want.

 Charlie : Oh No No !! ...don't get me wrong , Here is my Id , I work for government . I am a scientist and I am not mentally unstable . I am just happy that we got a breakthrough .

Me : What kind of breakthrough ?  Oh wait , If its a government secret or something ...I don't want be party to it.

Charlie : Oh no no ..... wait , he pondered a while ...Is there somhing called as govt. secret ? I always thought  people are wired or some documents always leak .Isn't it that way always ?  I started to same something in Offence , but he continued . He took out his glasses  and for the first time I noticed that he was also wearing a labcoat .It was not an overcoat .Now I wanted to excuse myself but he didn't notice and I didn't want to be impolite . His eyes were wide open and he was smiling as he broke the news  , " We invented a Rape Injection. " I was  certainly startled . "

I retorted ," you don't need injection to Rape ". He again begun,  "Oh No No !!! Its an injection to avoid rape , it works like a vaccination ."  The usual me was boiling with anger within said "So now we should take injections to avoid rape." and He begun again, "Oh no no !!! Its for Men. Its for their betterment and goodwill. We have tested  it on 50 sample size , Men of various races and regions ." Now I was curious , how did you find 50 men  & he said , putting back his glasses and said  "Potentially every male is at the risk of being rapist . The way our culture is moving , every man needs to take this injection."


Astonished I continued to look at him , Is he for real .  I asked him what are you talking about. He said " look at you , women of your kind , roaming at Bars at  these wee hours,  Anyone would want to rape you , even I felt like that  when I entered the Bar . But the injection did the magic , Now I won't rape you . Instead I will call you my sister and under my full security you will reach home safely."

I  was still looking at him but without caring to look at my expression , he  continued "You know there is always other side of the story. Women like you create a propaganda, You want to wear skirts and do not want to be whistled at. You want to act in movies & you think making your cleavage a discussion point will get you audience . You will do anything to get promoted at work but if it won't work , you will cry rape and molestation . You won't follow age old tradition of marriage and get into a Live-in and again you would cry rape . We men are at risk from morally fallible woman like you . Mankind needs to saved. "

The other side of the story was too dangerous for me and hence I ran out to took the cab & told him to start .  He called from behind "Oh no no  , you should not take Cab alone , he is yet to take Rape Injection"."

I looked at the cabby , he said " Madamme mai rapist nahi hoon. Gaanv mein biwi aur bacche hain mere. ( Madam I am not rapist , I have a family to feed) . I told him the destination and reached home safely.

PS : Remember you heard about injection first time on blog.

Guilt & Conscience

 Note : This is a sequel to my earlier post "Two Friends"

As they say destiny always has different plans for life. If you plan X , you land up in an exactly in opposite direction of X . Sherya and Shankar were made for each other that’s what the world thought . Indeed Shreya had wondered about what would  be her next step in life. Life wasn't exactly fulfilling yet she had little or no expectations .But then Shreya & Sankar's life took turns in two opposite direction . Shreya who always wanted to be with someone was treading alone and Sankar who would have been last person on this earth to be commited, found his match whom he was eager to Marry. Isha was intelligent, career oriented, fair, curly hair; not exactly size zero but with curves at right places. Sankar at once fell in love with Isha. They worked together and Sankar was bowled over by Isha’s enthusiasm to shop, to have fun and her common sense. Sankar and Isha instantly became good friends.  Isha and Sankar were in relationship for six months and he thought, time has come to introduce Isha to the group.

Before announcing his new commitment, Sankar met Vijayan to find out about Shreya. He hoped that she has already met someone. Vijayan who enjoyed close relationship with Shreya and Sankar, knew them very well. Vijayan had a feeling about what might be on Sankar's mind, Sankar on other hand was as vague as possible. He asked, "I wonder what Shreya is upto these days ?." Vijayan acted as if he didn’t hear the question. It was easier to act as both of them were sitting at a pub. Vijayan pretended to be drunk. Sankar also knew Vijayan well enough, he didn't push.  Sankar wanted to bring topic about himself and Isha to change the discussion which never took place. However, suddenly Shreya's memories flushed through his mind. Her smile, her calmness , innocence flushed through his mind as a wave of memory. Sankar felt restless , he went to cloak and vomited. He took a quick leave from Vijayan and left the pub. It was sudden and abrupt . Before Vijayan could speak or react, Sankar had left .
Sankar walked briskly almost 5 -6 km for next 45 mins. as if he was trying to be faster than flow of thoughts .Smoking off all 10 cigarettes  of the pack, trying to recollect atleast one of the shortcomings of Shreya which justified the separation. His memory only brought back their intimacy, exchanges of thoughts without speaking, her hugs and  the hug at airport, when he returned from states ,  affection was lost . Shreya was suddenly looked ugly. He stopped, his legs couldn’t move further , he called a cab . As soon as he sat in it, he was fast asleep.

At pub, Vijayan was pondering over the bill. He wondered whether Sankar still has some inclinations for Shreya . He knew Sankar was always the stronger and dominant part his and Shreya’s relationship. However, he was confident that about Shreya's ability of handling this major setback of life. Sankar's vulnerability came as surprise for Vijayan . Vijayan paid and left the pub. He prayed his wife should be fast asleep and was glad that his wife was not awake when he reached.

Sankar was awoke by his mother by gentle tapping on his arm , which he saw in his dream as someone pushing him across the cliff. He woke up with a jerk . His mom said “how can you sweat with AC on." Sankar said nothing. He concentrated on what he wants now. He told himself "he wants Isha."He wrote it on paper. After freshening up, and breakfast. Sankar left for work. At work he tried to focus on work. However, more absurd thoughts were running in mind. First thought, he imagined Shreya accusing him in public for being rude and selfish. In another stream , he imagined police came for enquiring about mysterious death of Shreya .His  stream of thoughts were interrupted by Isha , who had specially dressed for him. She saw some weird expression on his face , she asked "are you okay?" Shankar shrugged and replied “I am alright. You look gorgeous today”   “Its from ‘Vera Moda’”. Both of them were now lost in appraising each other and planning the upcoming weekend. After dropping Isha home, Sankar drove to the nearest corner and parked his car. He scrolled through the list of numbers , there was Shreya’s number, he couldn’t bring himself to dial. He sat there staring in dark.

He told himself, “I want Isha” and sped away.

Shreya somewhere was accepting larger responsibilities in professional life with no space personal commitments.

This Happened - End OF 2012

The Blog is being written in anticipation that world would end tomorrow . Though  there are no rains or storms yet . Oh wait even there is forecast from weather department , which I assume increase a little probability of rain & storm hitting us tomorrow . After all Mayans said it , Earth is already overran its life , its on extension . Even as per Hindu mythology , we are in fourth quartet  of yugs .

I have  already updated my FB status , to avoid last moment traffic . Also on twitter I am constantly tweeting about why the world should end ? The one person I know , who is happy about end of the world is a dear friend . I asked ,  Do you know world is ending on Friday 21 , 2012 ? He replied , "Is it ? Wonderful ,  I won't need to buy this overpriced expired piece of land anymore  ? "  Have you seen the roads ? The world should end . Oh , I know this other guy who was dumped few days back . He was glad too to know he has to feel pain for only two more days . Last heard , he had sent an MMS of middle finger to ex  with a tagline , since you dumped me , the world is ending.

I have my reasons to be happy about world end . This world is absolutely unlivable . Shopper stop promises a voucher on purchase of 30 k . Heck , I don't have that kind of money . Also its better if world ends before Sachin even thinks of retiring .Since Dabbang2 is releasing tomorrow , the world should end .

While I was writing all this , suddenly my soul was ripped from my body ( like they do in Supernatural series ) and taken to GOD's abode . The two guys on the way told me , that world should have indeed ended in 2000 . I said , wow that would have saved me from engineering & all these years of slogging . I asked what happened ? They said unanimously , " India didn't win the cricket world cup ." So I asked , " So Sachin is really God? " Then there was noise "dhoom" . We'd reached the abode . The my " brain tubelight flickered" And I asked "Am I dead already?"  The Guys said , no. I was escorted by another fellow , He begun before I could open my mouth . " From here , It seemed you are the only one who understands the importance of why world should end . So we decided get you urgently here , so that boss understands , its world's call too." I looked at him and thought "didn't he see the humour label."  I was confused and scared . Suddenly , I realised Mom would be worried down there ,

While , as my mind raced , I reached a large gate . The fellow said , you can go in. Ofcourse I forgot to ask , who was he . I went in . I was at peace with myself instantly . The place would change as I want to view it . It would be white serene in one moment or change into one of the  duplexes of Mumbai . I finally settled for mountains from childhood .  I saw him there face to face . No he didn't look like Sachin. Here I was , to convince the creator , end what you made . End , because what you made is so ugly now , it will only denigrate . I was standing there quiet , at peace with self . He said ," so you came to advocate that the world should end. " I looked at him , and composed myself "umm err yeah , your subordinates brought me to explain that earth has overran her life." God asked , why did you settle for this mountain . I said ,"I like it , the sea from here is brilliant view , the open sky . I love everything about it ." God said , " Its the minutest dot on earth . Its disappearance won't matter to earth.  but I can't do it . I made this place. " I said "you could create  one more world " He said "It took millions of years to make earth . I agree the humans exploited it .but I still love this universe." I said " So its not only earth , but the whole universe that goes down." God said "ofcourse , there is a science in everything , life forms on earth are important part of her existence ." If the life form goes she explodes into a fireball Nothing remains " The thought first time sent a shiver through me .

So,  whats the future ? I asked . Sachin is not retiring anytime soon , said God . "Future is what you create .
The world will certainly gain its equilibrium with good , bad and other relative stuff ", he said . So you agree the world is tilted , said I . He said ," you need to be back on earth , enjoy the good things in  life ." I said "I am glad Sachin is no retiring ." Oh what do I tell your subordinate . He smiled and said "tell them I was busy listening to Lata Mangeshkar's voice ." Everything disappeared , and I stood with the fellow again. Anxious he asked , did he listen to you ? I nodded a no .  He was very angry .

On the way back the two fellows told me , the fellow is brother of God & he was promised he will get to create new world once this one ends . When God learnt about his "perfect world" , he decided not to end this world and I was back on my desk  . I wonder what was his idea of perfect world is .

Atleast Mayan's were right in their calculations.

Mussadi meets Gandhi

Thirty-one year old Mussadi was staring at the Income Tax notice in front of him. It was the tenth time in past two days he had read the notice . The notice said he owes income tax around  five lakh rupees for filing false returns for past nine years . 

Mussadi was sitting at his office desk, it was five to ten in the night , he was the only guy sitting on his floor . He folded the letter, shoved it in his laptop bag . He also folded the laptop without waiting for it to shut down. As he was moving out of his cubicle , he saw the "I am Anna" cap on the desk which he had purchased a month back from Ramlila ground where he had gone to register his protest against corruption .  He was so proud to be Indian then . People who were farmers, common folks , and young people like him had come there . 

When Kejriwal was taking oath , along with thousands of people he also took the oath of neither paying nor accepting the bribe. Though in his case he never paid any  bribes, except on a few occasion like when he used to make a 'jugaad' of sleeper coach ticket while boarding the train with general class ticket  and  the ticket checker used to managed it for few hundred bucks  and never accepted any kind of favours from his clients (which was indeed a difficult job in his profile of marketing). Only  Diwali /Dusshera gifts in line with festive occasion was acceptable.

 

The day Mussadi  took the oath , he decided do away with these small favours/jugaad too with considering  consequences. 

"May be truth was only for Gandhi " thought Mussadi. He took the cap , and was about to  drop it in the bin, someone called his name  from behind,  he turned . 

There stood a figure of the famous short man

from the history of the world and India, Gandhi. The Mahatma wasn't dressed in his usual dhoti, his attire consisted of Pagdi and his Suit which he wore when he practiced law professionally,  As if to protest against the mockery which was being made of  his principals and him.

 Gandhi walked towards him. He took the cap from Mussadi and asked , "you are giving up truth ,may I know why?"  

Mussadi looked at Gandhi confused, he was not drunk for sure.

Gandhi said again, "sit down, Mussadi." placing his hand on shoulder and gestured him to sit .

Mussadi finally spoke in past  two days ," Life was much easier prior to that day. " Gandhi said "the day you took the oath ?" Mussadi said "yes , much easier , happier and financially better. " Gandhi asked ,"How your life worsened after you  took the oath ?" Mussadi begun ," The day I took oath , I decided not to use any types of 'jugaad' . First my dad fixed my sisters marriage on a short notice , fllight was too expensive to travel . I didnt get tickets for train , and I had to travel in general class like a cattle. " Gandhi almost smiled , puzzled Mussadi asked , " why are you smiling ?" Gandhi said ,"Isn't Shashi Tharoor was backlashed  for using "cattle class" for  economy in flights." Mussadi replied in tired tone,"Yeah , but thts how they bring people in general compartment of train and thats not the only thing . The contractor for wedding told us that if we paid 15 % in cash , we will save some money . I told him we want a whole invoice , he agreed and we ended up paying a lakh more . Dad cursed himself for calling me for wedding arrangements . He said , they  ended up spending more for everything . And the major blunder has been income tax. My consultant repeatedly told me not to pay more taxes , I told him its what I owe to government this year. I paid  more than double tax  compared to previous year . Infact every year I get returns to the tune of 12000. And what  the department does to my goodwill of high income tax payment , slam me a notice of 5 lakhs. I dont even have that kind of a cash and Dad has refused to help . My tax consultant told me to shell out 50k to burry the matter . " Mussadi  conitinued " You know what , I am done with this corruption thing , patriotism and truth. All I want is a normal life ."

 Gandhi who was sitting on Mussadi's desk , stood up and walked around. Then he took Mussadi by arm and took him to the balcony , he looked at Mussadi and then at the populated dense city view from balcony , " Normal life means a house , car , a wife and kids." Mussadi noded slowly in agreement. After a pause Gandhi asked " Do you regret that you also refused a wrist watch , I mean a "Swatch"  from one of the clients last week ? " Mussadi replied immediately "No , absolutely not , infact , I closed an order at my price.  The feeling was ecstatic.  Why are you asking. ? " Gandhi ignored  the question ,  " You also strictly followed the 10 o'clock deadline on your sister's wedding  for sound and banned noise making firecrackers. Do you regret ?" Mussadi  " No...err where are you leading me, Sir. " Gandhi replied  ," I am  indicating  at things which money doesn't buy. " Mussadi still  looked confused . Gandhi continued ," 5 lakh is a life changing amount for a youth like you . So , I leave it to you , how you tackle the notice in today's time . We live in changed times and money is important .Living by law might be difficult especially when you know they are made by other human beings , but whatever you do please once think about that one person who lives in much worse conditions . How your decision affects him ? " and Gandhi left from the door . Mussadi who was standing at balcony was stunned. Only a few seconds later he ran to the otherside to find noone .
Mussadi returned to the desk , a security guard was standing there . Mussadi in anticipation replied " I am leaving now, you can lock ." He looked around , no one was there.  By the time he took the elevator to ground floor , he understood what he wants to do with the notice.
At home , he opened his laptop and drafted a reply to income tax .