Part 4: SHE's with ME

As the days were passing, my relationship with Zarek was getting stronger. We started meeting often as Zarek use to come to meet me during weekdays also, after his classes and sometimes he misses the work also to stay longer with me. And during weekends, at his parent’s place, we use to spend our days together. The life was moving smoothly and like a fairy tale, everything was falling in place. I was getting care and love from all the corners and people of my life. Life cant’ get better than this for me.

And then the day has come. It was supposed to be the most important day for Zarek as today his result for a permanent job with Govt. was supposed to get released. And we all were scared and curious about that. Zarek was home and continuously trying to open the web page where the result was to get flashed first. And finally, after about 1000 refreshes, it showed something. The result was announced. With all the nervousness and shivers, he somehow managed to type his enrollment number. And then jumped with his full force to see that he got through. We all were happy more than the words can ever explain. His mom and dad were the luckiest and the happiest people on earth at that time. Everyone hugged him and patted his back and also his parents were the proud parents by then. They got busy phoning everyone in their contact list. Their happiness was something different and I have never seen anyone this happy before. And I proudly gives the credit of this moment to Zarek and only Zarek. He was the source of this pious feeling and he deserves the best in life for this.

And when his parents were busy sharing their happiness with possibly everyone under the sun, Zarek came to me and asked, “SO?”

Me: So?

Zarek: Don’t you want to congratulate me on my achievement?

Me: I think I have already done that Zarek.

Z: You know what I want from you as your wishes!

M: Zarek, don’t be stupid! Everyone is around and you know I can’t give you something which you want at this moment.

Z: Come with me. (And he started to pull me towards the lawn outside)

After reaching there, I looked him in his eyes, I could get lost in them forever. His face was inches away from mine, he kept looking at my eyes then my lips. I closed my eyes and leaned in, our lips touched and this time it was sweeter, slower and it held passion.

Once our lips touched I felt sparks, there is no denying that I liked it, there is also no denying that I felt something for Zarek. I raised my hands and wrapped it around his neck as his grip around my waist tightened. Our lips moved in sync and it started off slow but soon became fast.

We pulled away for breath of air, I was panting and trying to catch my breath. I felt my cheeks get hot just by thinking of this kiss, I looked up at Zarek and saw he was staring at me with his beautiful eyes.

I was happy but also confused! “Zarek---“ I started but was cut off. “Shhh Aarshi”, he said while putting his finger on my lips. “I know that you are confused and to be honest. I am confused too. But all I know is that I feel something for you and I can’t ignore these feelings anymore.” He stated.

My eyes widened and I felt butterflies in my stomach, I was shocked by his words that I couldn’t even talk. He then asked me, “Shall I talk to my parents now or you want to wait?” I was quite and he further stated, “Or you can continue with your degree and by the time you will be over with it, I will be over with my training and we can get married then.”

I could only say, “As you like and wish.” He ran back to his parents and told them about us. And also expressed that he wants to get married to me but only when he is independent and starts working. So all that he wanted from them at that time was to talk to my parents and ask for some time. They happily agreed because somehow I felt that they also wanted the same.

Part 3: SHE's with ME

Today Zarek have to leave from his parent’s home. I came downstairs, all excited for the first day of my university and got to see Mrs. Ludwig, little low as she always hate the feeling of Zarek leaving. It is not only because he never calls her on time but also he always finds excuses for not visiting his parents regularly. We all had our breakfast together and then Mr. Ludwig asked Zarek if he could accompany me to my university and also guides me with the way to and fro. He agreed and after giving our greeting for a nice day to his parents, we moved towards the bus stand to catch the route to university. Zarek’s university and also his place of work was near to mine, as told by him. During our way, he was careful to tell me everything about the place, the route, the area near by etc. etc. ……

When we were about to reach, he asked me my contact details, to which I told him that I don’t have any mobile number as of now. After hearing that he gave me his number and told me that if in case I need to call him, I should not hesitate. And with a promise to see me soon, he left for his destination. The day at the college went super nice. All the students were friendly and so were the teachers. Everyone was excited to see me as I was the only Indian among all of us. The curiousness among all of them to know about the culture, religions, traditions and most importantly to know more about Taj Mahal in India was extremely evident. Day ended faster than expected and I was about to head back to home when I noticed Zarek waiting for me at the place where he had left me in the morning. I was surprised to see him as we had no such plans and I was supposed to leave on my own.

He came closer, held my hand, kissed on my cheek and asked, “How was the day?” I got a shiver in my body but still I could manage to reply that it was wonderful and I enjoyed being here. And then I asked him about the reason for his presence here. He told me that he is not working today so he dropped in and will be going home with me. We again traveled together. I knew that it was never the case with him earlier, coz whenever he was not working, he always kept himself busy with the preparation. But unlike those days, today he decided to accompany me to back home. I knew, he was worried and wanted to take care of me, at least for the first day. We finally reached home and his parents were equally shocked to see him with me. They were happy and so was I. We had our dinner together and moved on to our rooms.

Next day Zarek and I again went together but in the evening after classes got over, I came back alone. Weeks passed by like this. Zarek use to come home now for weekends only and it use to be the best time. I don’t know when and how, but I have started liking him somehow.

The month was about to get over, and it is the time when I have to move to my hostel. Mrs. Ludwig, like a mom, wanted me to stay with them only but against all her wishes, I had to move to my hostel. And now, I have started missing my family more than before and also I have started missing my uncle and aunty too. Mrs. Ludwig use to call me often at my hostel’s landline but there was no way now, I could talk with Zarek or meet him except when we are at home at the common times and days.

This is the first weekend when I was visiting Mrs. And Mr. Ludwig, but there was no sign of Zarek coming in. I felt incomplete as if something was missing. I did not enjoyed my stay. But then Mrs. Ludwig informed me that his exam is scheduled for Monday and because of that he is not visiting this weekend. I had no option but to stay alone at home, without him. Actually, the house was just a building of concrete without him. He is the life of this house and when he is not here, the life is missing.

On Sunday evening, we all talked with him over a phone call to wish him luck for his exam. He sounded little worried but still he is the humorous and lively Zarek. And then the next week, I could not talk with him the entire week. I was even unable to find out about his exam. Also since my tests were approaching, I decided to stay back at hostel to give some extra time for my preparations, so this was the longest duration we did not see each other.

Now I am missing him like anything. But I was not sure if he also feels the same or not. The weekend, after my exams, was almost there and I have a plan to visit Zarek’s parents this time. I truly wished for his presence too. And finally on Friday evening when I was about to leave for home, I saw Zarek waiting for me. Immediately when he saw me, he came running towards me and hugged me tightly. While hugging, he expressed his feeling by saying, he missed me so much. And first kissed me on my cheeks and asked, how have I been? Without waiting for my reply, he moved his lips on to mine and placed a tender kiss on those. I never wanted him to stop but…. I pulled myself little away from me and with a sparkling eyes I asked him to let’s get going towards home.

He held my hand tightly with his one hand and placed his another hand around my waist. We were moving towards the bus stop. And this time he was full of questions.

Zarek: So how have you been the entire month?

Me: The month was OK and so was I! I had exams, so I could not visit home.

Z: you never even called?

Me: I missed your number.

Z: you could have asked for the same from mom!

Me: Hmmmm….. (I kept quite)

Z: I missed you so much. Did you miss me too?

Me: Yes!

Z: Do you like me?

Me: I again opted to remain quite….

Z: I did not get your answer sweets!

Me: Do you like me? (Instead I asked him a question)

Z: Yes! A lot….. Rather I think I have feelings for you more than just liking you. I think I am falling in love with you.

Me: Bus is here… let’s go…..

Z: why are you avoiding my question?

Me: Zarek, let’s get in first, because I don’t want to miss it.

Z: Answer me first, otherwise I am not moving anywhere.

Me: Yes I like you! And I think I also feel the same for you like you feel for me.

After hearing that, he seemed like on the seventh cloud and he hugged me again before we stepped into the bus. We reached home and his parents were more than happy to see both of us together. The weekend just passed by in a blink of an eye.

It is Monday morning again, we both left for our universities together. Immediately after stepping out of the home and getting away from the sight of his parents, he dragged me to a tree and by placing my back on it, he kissed passionately on my lips. This time I kissed him back. He said, “I was starving for this. I love you Aarshi. Say you love me too.” I just moved my head in agreement.

We both were happy to express our feelings for each other. This is the new phase of my life which was waiting for me and I was really excited to have Zarek in it. He is one such complete man whom I have always wanted to be with me. I loved everything about him. He was hardworking, sensible, independent and also the most caring one around me here in Denmark. When we were about to reach, he asked me, “Will you miss me?” I replied, “What do you think?” He just gave me his number again and asked me to call him whenever I can. He knew that it’s not allowed to keep a cell phone in the hostel and also, it will not be wise if he will call me so he did not even asked me about my number. And we parted, with a promise to meet soon.

Part 2: SHE's with ME

It is my first morning in Denmark. I woke up early and wanted to go out for some fresh air and may be a walk if I get a chance. The moment I stepped out of my room towards the lobby, I saw all three of them were sitting on the dining table and sipping their different favorites. Mrs. Ludwig was having green tea whereas Mr. Ludwig had black coffee and Zarek was about to leave for jogging with a water tumbler in his hands. I greeted them morning and they reciprocated the same with equal affection. Just then, Zarek offered me to come with him for a morning walk. And I thought that if I would have asked for something big from God today morning, I would have got that too. I happily accepted Zarek’s offer and went with him with the permission of Mrs. & Mr. Ludwig.

Zarek is such a charmer and a very humorous person to interact with. He never let you get bored. It was my first day in Denmark and I am almost a stranger to him as well as to this place, but he never let me realized that. I was thoroughly enjoying his company. And it was so very kind of him to make me aware of the ways and surroundings near to their place. He showed me all the shops around, in case if I want something and also told me that I can come to this joggers’ park every day for walk if I want. There he made me meet with many of his local friends and neighbours of ours.

During walk only, he asked me about my plans and what kind of course I am here for? He also asked me if I am comfortable staying at his parent’s house or not. All in all, he was friendly, cooperative and very lively person. During our walk only we have decided to go for a coffee in a nearby café in the evening. According to Zarek, this is the café one must visit because it gives you the flavor of everything under the same roof. Like it is run by an Indo-Danish family so with the flavours of India in Denmark, you not only enjoy the Hindi songs out there but sometimes, if you are lucky, you can get a chance to meet Mrs. Malhotra who is the owner of the café and a very loving lady to spend time with. Except her, no one in the café understands Hindi and they prefer to speak in Danish and sometimes in English, to the new guests. So with all this sort of background, I was very excited to visit the café.

After coming back from walk, we all had breakfast together and Zarek introduced me with some Danish words. During the day, we all did gardening, cleaning of house, also me and Zarek went to the market to get some stuff for kitchen, Mr. Ludwig washed and cleaned his car and surprisingly it took him almost half a day. I was wondering that all the things which we outsource or hire household help for, back home, are done personally here. And not only these are done rather people enjoy doing all those things. This gives them satisfaction and also a sense of belonging.

And finally its evening! As decided, we got ready to go to café for the coffee. Mrs. & Mr. Ludwig were very happy to see that Zarek was taking a good care of me, which is usually not the case with him as he is most of the time busy with the studies, preparation or his job. But unlike all other times, this time he himself was volunteering and this is something I was also enjoying. Not for a single minute till now I have felt that this is not my country and this is not my family.

I got dressed in my casuals and went to the living room where Zarek was already waiting for me. He asked if I will walk down to café or shall he ask for the car from his dad to which I told that I prefer to walk. Actually, it was his company which will not make you realize the distance and being lively he will not let anyone get bored around him. We started towards the café and after every 10 minutes he was informing me that it’s just about 10 more minutes and we will be there. Actually it was really far off from the house but at no point in time he allowed the tiredness to take stroll on my body. Finally after about a 40 minutes of walk, we reached the place. It was really a treat to eyes to see such a beautifully decorated café. It actually had a different fragrance in its atmosphere. Everyone out there were enjoying the famous MASALA TEA, the specialty of that café. The staff there looked familiar with Zarek, as if he is a regular client of the café and also a good friend to them. Whoever saw him there, without missing, they all wished him in a friendly manner and asked about his parents.

He introduced me with everyone, whoever met him there till we settled ourselves on a window side table with a spectacular view outside. He asked me what will I have, and I replied that lets have something which you like the most here. And as a custom for him, he ordered two Masala Tea for us. He spotted someone on the other corner of the café, who seems to be known to him so he took an excuse from me for some time to go and meet that person. I was sitting alone on the table and enjoying the view outside when someone came and said / asked something, “hvem er du med frue?” After hearing some alien language I had no option other than giving an equally alien look. Immediately, Zarek came running towards our table and asked the person, “hvad er ven sag?” to which he replied, “jeg spurgte Fru at hvem hun er med.” Then again Zarek said, “hun er med mig.” The person smiled and went back.

Now it was Zarek’s turn to explain me with things. He said, when he was with his friend in café, he saw one of these waiters asking me something. And he knew that this waiter doesn’t speak anything other than Danish, and that is why he came running towards me. And he told me what he asked! “He asked you that whom r you with? To which you gave him an alien look. Later he repeated the same question to me on asking. And I replied that You are with me!”

With a cherry red colour on my cheeks, I smiled and turned my face towards the window. After about 10 minutes the same waiter came to deliver our order we exchanged smiles now. While sipping the Masala Tea, Zarek was completely engrossed in the Hindi songs and the cozy, friendly & warm atmosphere of the café. He shared with me that whenever he feels strange, he comes here. This place gives him peace of mind and helps him to find himself in the fast moving mechanical life. I also enjoyed every bit of the place. It was not different from what Zarek has told me about it. And after about an hour of sitting in the café, we said goodbye to the people there. While we were about to exit through the main door, the same waiter came and said “coem tilbage snart”. To which Zarek replied “Jo da! Takker dig.” Again he explained me that the waiter asked us to come back again soon, to which he replied Sure! Thank you. 

Part 1: SHE's with ME

Life has been a wonderful gift to me! Being the only child of my parents, I have always been treated as a princess and whatever I have asked for; I have got that without any delays and questions. And at the same time, I was reserved, logical, practical and an obedient child of my parents. My parents loved me more than anything in the world. They knew what parent’s love means to a growing child. This was because of the fact that my mom’s parents got separated when she was just four and have never got the love from anyone of them; whereas my dad’s parents passed away in a car accident when he was just seven. I think I will not be wrong if I put it like this that life has been very cruel to both of my parents. But since the day they have got married, I think they have started loving the life they have been gifted with. The transformation in their thinking came because they could bring in love in each other’s life, which was earlier missing. Now with each passing day, they wanted to live together forever and love each other. They wanted to live every minute at their disposal and when I came in their life, it was like a heaven on earth for them. They named me Aarshi, which was a combination of both of their names i.e. Aarav and Sakshi. And since childhood, I have had a blessed life, which every child desires for.

I was 18 when I moved to Denmark for further degree. That was for the first time I was getting away from my parents. Rather it was even more difficult for them because their life moves around only one being and that was me. It had been a worst feeling while departing from the airport. The dimming sight of them, as I was getting closer to the airport entrance, was the inexpressible sensation. I felt like going away from my life. The first thought which came to my mind at that time was to question my own decision. My parents are everything to me and moving away from them for just one extra degree is not a wiser decision I have taken. I thought of moving backward to live my life with them. But then my mom’s teaching echoed in my ears, “Life is a bad teacher. It gives you hardest of test to check whether you deserve the best in life or not! And when you pass in those tests, it gives you even better rewards, which you may not have ever imagined.” And considering this parting as one of my tests, I moved on. Leaving all the feelings aside and concentrating on the future goals, I just moved on.

With a brave heart, I landed in Denmark. I have been received by Mrs. & Mr. Ludwig. They are my parents’ friends. Since my dad is into tourism industry, he has many good friends almost all around the world. And we are used to get the homely treatment everywhere in the world. Where ever we go, whether it is for leisure or for business, we always get a home away from home. And so as a custom, I have a home in Denmark too. They were as loving and caring as a family and not just I have got a home away from home but a family too. Although I have taken the hostel facility, but for the first month I have been requested to stay with them at their place. They wanted to make sure that I get accustomed with the place, rules, regulations and also the ways to travel in the city. And I had no option other than to say yes to them.

We reached their home, which was a bit in the country-side area. But without a shadow of doubt, they have got a beautiful house. I met Zarek there. He is Mrs. & Mr. Ludwig only son. He seems to be of my age. But unlike me he has a part-time job and side by side he is preparing for a Danish Govt.’s job test. Along with that he is enrolled with the University for his degree course, to which he goes in the morning every weekday and during weekends, either he prepares for his job test or works overtime. And still if he gets some time off, he visit his parents. And to their surprise, he was at home to meet them.

We were introduced to each other by Mrs. Ludwig. And after a shorter session of introduction, I have been asked to call my parents back home to inform them about my safe arrival. Since keeping a cell phone in the hostel was not allowed and also taking a new connection was not that easy in that city so it was a mutual decision of me and my parents that I will not have a cell phone instead I will be using Mrs. & Mr. Ludwig landline to converse with them back home. So I phoned them and inform them about my safe arrival and the humble attitude of my hosts. They were happy to know this and I decided to keep my conversation brief as I was tired and also others were waiting for me to have dinner together.

It was really nice to be eating the proper Danish food and also the conversation to get to know each other was an experience in itself. Although I was meeting each one of them for the first time but none of them made me realize that way. It seems like I knew them since ages. After dinner Mrs. Ludwig guided me to a very pretty room, which she addressed as my room. It was really a loving and the most humble gesture of her. The room was really really beautiful, with all the important things in place and the decor done with the most delicate taste. What else one can ask for in a stranger country? I thanked her for all the things she have done and greeted her the best for night.  

FINAL: Pursuing Pink

We were getting close with each passing day. And today, he wished me morning differently. He came closer and asked by hugging me tightly, “how did u sleep my love?” he kissed me gently on my lips. All looked like a fairy tale moment, where I could not do anything more than feeling his closeness and his warm hug. I replied, “Night went fine, but it seems you are not fine today?” to which Joy reply was really weird, he said, “How can I be fine without you not being around on my bed”. And then our conversation went on like this….. Since it was Sunday and we had the whole lot of time to argue today and probably that is why Joy had chosen this day to behave like this.

By pulling Joy away, I asked “What do you mean?”

"Oh Pink! Don’t you think that we should accept it now that we both cannot think of ourselves without each other? Why do you feel shy in accepting this fact? Please try and understand that it is getting difficult for me to see you so far off although you are just a room away. You seems really far off… I need you to be with me all the time, and when I am saying all the time I mean all the time… the whole day and the whole night… please love accept it and start living it”

“Joy, I don’t know what are you talking about? And I doesn’t even know that why are you talking like this? I don’t love you. We are just friends and I know my limitations and also please make sure in your mind that we are poles apart. We can never come together because we are not meant to be. You are and your world is entirely different from me and my world. We both belongs to different places all together and by bringing in only this thought, you are creating more problems for me as well as for you.”

“Pink that means you don’t feel anything for me? You don’t like when I come close to you? You don’t feel anything when I kisses you? You don’t feel worried when I come late to pick you up from work? Or you don’t panic when you don’t see me on the breakfast table in the morning before you? Tell me you don’t and I will believe to all that you have just said.”

I was quite for some time because I knew that whatever Joy had just mention, everything was true to its core. But still I was afraid to accept it. And immediately when I tried to open my mouth to say NO, joy warned me to speak only truth. “You have to swear by me that whatever you will say, will going to be correct”. He gave me a small nod. His expressions told that he couldn’t wait to see what I will do or say next.

I stopped when I was a few inches away from him. I could feel his breath, smell the mint in it. “What do you have for me Pink?” he asked, his voice low and breathy. It was a passionate kiss, hard and deep and made me long for something I wasn’t ready for. His hands were all over my body, possessive, craving, demanding. My head was spinning. My heart was beating so fast. He grabbed my arm and whipped me around, my arms sliding across his chest as our bodies came in contact. I twisted away but he grabbed my other arm, immobilizing me.

His face was contorted with anger and frustration as he glared at me and said, “I have been walking on the eggshells around you. I can’t live like this. What do you want from me?” I wanted to slap him but my arms were locked in his hands. “Stop being coward and tell me what you feel, dammit. Because I am done with your games, Pink.” He said angrily, his grip tightening around my arms. And then his eyes turned soft, his voice in painful whisper as he asked, “Do you want me or not?”

“I do, damn you!”

I grabbed the collar of his shirt and pulled him down for a punishing kiss. I kissed him because he put butterflies in my stomach and I loved and hated that feeling. I kissed him because he made me hope for something I thought was broken, something I thought I could never have. I kiss him because he was Joy.

My heart drummed as I felt his hands on my back, pulling me against his hard body. I kissed him harder, biting his plum bottom lip. I heard his intake of breath and that encouraged me to kiss him harder. My hands dug on his arms, taking everything he was giving me. His fingers caressed the exposed skin on my back, sending shivers through me. I placed my hands on his chest, pushing him a little as I realized that I needed to catch my breath.

“Wait I want to talk”…. “Stop talking woman”, he whispered, kissing my shoulders. “Mmm….” He purred, smelling my skin behind my ear. “You smell so good, taste so good.”

His hands went to caress my whole body. “I want to make love with you so bad, Pink, its all I can think about.” It was like an ice bucket was thrown over my head. I grabbed his hands to stop them from…. Doing whatever they were going to do. He was breathing loudly, we both were, but he stopped as soon as I asked him to. “I am not going to push you. This is all up to you. I promise you.” I nodded. I wondered what he would think if I told him that I want him as eagerly as he wants me. “I am also in love with you Joy.” His mouth closed. Opened, closed again. He blew out a breath, raking his fingers in his hair as he looked at me. And then he smiled. “God. You don’t know how happy that made me. How proud I am feeling now. I can’t wait, baby.” He kissed my lips. I burrowed in his chest. I gasped when he said he loves me. He looked at me like he knew what I was thinking. He smiled knowingly and whispered, “You are worth it, Pink. The pursue was worth it.”

Part 6: Pursuing Pink

I was again left confused. This guy really had something in him. I dropped the idea of going to library and thought of staying back home as Joy had already left. I were in the deepest thoughts that whatever I am doing with Joy, is it correct way of reciprocating the favours he had being doing for me? The way I am treating him since that night, is it the right way one should be treated, when u are equally at fault? Because down there in my heart I knew that whatever happened that night was not at all his fault rather I showed him my willingness too. He never went against any of my wish. Then why am I treating him like that? Or maybe I am unable to justify my own actions and in return I am giving him the punishment by behaving like this. All my thoughts were for him at that moment. I didn’t know why, really why I just couldn’t stop thinking about him?

I didn’t even hear the sound of door when it opened and Joy entered the house. I was sitting in the same position, at the same place in the living room since Joy had left. He got little worried again to see me the way i have been sitting as if i were some statue.

He came near to me and asked me again, “what has happened to you Pink? Why don’t you understand that we have not done anything wrong for God Sake! That night, you were scared and broken and all you wanted at that time was a person who could made you feel safer. And that is exactly what I proved to be that night.” I wanted him to hug me again….. Oh God! What was happening with me? I apologized to him for my wired behavior. i also made him clear with the reason behind that. I told him that he is the first ever person with whom I shared everything about me. He is the first one who saw me breaking down as before that I never cried in front of anyone. And most importantly, he is the first person who could come so close to I physically and mentally and also got the polite behavior, instead of retaliating one, from me.

I think he knew it already and for being the first in my life for so many things, he was very proud of himself also. He smiled and whispered, “So now can we please be normal again?” I could only smile back and said sorry again. Being the smartest guy around, he knew how to charm any girl, this is something I use to listen from the people in campus about him, but today I was experiencing it myself. He was really a man who could convince anyone so effortlessly so as to make them think that without it they were wrong.

He also told me that he knew it already that we go to the same college so from Monday onwards he wanted us to go together and that was not a kind of request he was making. Rather his tone was authoritative to which I could not say no. This man really had something inside else it was not easy for me to obey to everything which he was saying without raising any further question or asking for the reason behind.

I discussed further about my plans with him. i told him that i was in search of getting a part time work soon and also to study more than required to maintain my grades because that was the only way to save my fellowship. “My friend’s dad is looking for a cashier for his workshop, I had already given your name. Just go and start working from Monday. And by coming with me to campus in the morning would save you some hours which you can devote to your studies. And by the time I get over with my basketball practice, you will be over with your work shift so every day I will pick up you from there so that you save some time in the evening also to study more than the usual.” I mean he had all the plan set already! I was stunned to hear all of it from him. He was so concerned about me and was planning everything without even me telling him to do that. And I felt so foolish again to think that he was a self-centered man and I did not matter to him in anyway.

I had the most wonderful Saturday and Sunday ever. I spent time with Joy. He also introduced me with Cathy, to whose dad’s workshop I will be going to start working from Monday. He was not at all like I use to think about him. He was caring, charming and a man to die for. He cared for me like a baby and the entire two days stood beside me, whenever we were out and wherever we were for those two days. I, kind of, was coming closer to him with each passing moment and with each of his gesture towards me. He was truly a gentleman.

It was Monday morning and the plan was set already. I cooked breakfast for us and then started with my lessons. Got ready and came to table where Joy was already waiting for me to have breakfast together. While giving a morning kiss on my cheeks he asked, “How did u sleep? So are you ready for the first day at work?” I replied by just moving my neck in yes and he hugged me to wish me good luck for the same. I accepted all his gestures with open arms and could feel a desire for more already building inside me. We both drove to college together and moved towards our respective classes. While parting our ways, Joy held my wrist and reminded me to wait for him in the evening after my working shift. I replied in yes again and moved ahead towards my class.

Weeks passed by like this and everything was moving so smooth that now I was worried of the fact that how can this happen? How is it possible that nothing wrong happened with me since long? Was it the Joy factor? Was he lucky for me? Was he the one I have been waiting for? He and only he is the one I have been always thinking now. The question was WHY?

Are you guys eager to know the answer? I am equally eager to write the next chapter… So just be little more patient! 

Part 5: Pursuing Pink

I was determined that Joy and I didn’t see each other the next morning so I woke up earlier than usual, made breakfast and posted a note on the fridge for Joy. I wrote:

Joy,

Made some eggs for breakfast.

I had to make sure I left before he did.

I refused to discuss what happened last night. It was never going to happen again. I wanted to slap myself. Why do I care what he thought of me? I do not care. Repeat, I do not care.

Even the weather matched my mood with its cloudy and dark skies as I boarded the bus immediately, not wanting him to find out I attended the same campus, not wanting the people to see that I was with him or that I knew him. Joy was a spotlight, everyone and everything around him was showcased like a bug under microscope. And I wanted to avoid every bit of it.

I wanted to miss my lectures today because of yesterday incidences but then I thought that keeping my mind busy will probably help in stop thinking about all the nonsense that happened yesterday. So I entered a class when it was just about to start.

The following weeks after that, I avoided him. I made sure that we never see each other in the mornings or even after I get home from classes and leave for dropping my CV for my new work. I had told him my hours because again it was a common courtesy. After all I was living at his place and he has a right to know whenever I come and leave.

We hadn’t spoken to each other in two weeks and he had never sought me out, so I figured I was just another past time to him. That night meant nothing to him. I meant nothing to him.

It was Friday and I was as usual attending my lecture. And then suddenly to my wildest thought and surprise, I saw Joy coming towards my classroom. He entered with the permission of the Prof. saying that he wants to attend his lecture out of interest because this was not his major and he was never seen before in this class.

My eyes shifted to Joy. He was staring at me with sorrow in his eyes. I turned around to the front again, kind of ignoring him. Suddenly, the person sitting next to me passed me a piece of paper and signaled towards Joy. In his actions and muted voice, he could convey that this paper is coming from Joy. I didn’t recall how long I stared at that note before I opened it.

I am sorry I kissed you that night.

-  Joy

I was sure that he will look and wait for me after the class to have a conversation which was pending since many weeks now. But I avoided him again after the class and immediately rushed to the library and decided to spend some good hours in there without thinking about anything and without getting distracted with his presence around me.

It was Saturday today and I decided to go to library in the morning, after I finish my work at home and from afternoon till late evening I decided to visit every damn store possible to get a job. Hence I was expecting to arrive late tonight.

I was just placing his plate in the food warmer when I heard footsteps behind me. My eyes widened in panic.

“Why are you avoiding me?” he asked, straight as you please.

I nearly dropped the plate. He stood in front of me, a towel around his neck and only wearing his sweatpants. Sweat gleamed on his forehead, on his impressive chest and going further down to his toned stomach. He obviously just finished his work out.

I cleared my throat. “I …. I am not avoiding you.” He tilted his head, studying me, I stood my ground even when I wanted to squirm. “Do you need something?” I coloured my voice with irritation. He rubbed his hand across his face. “YES”. He walked towards me, slowly, his eyes so green and intense locking on mine. I stood froze, unable to move, unable to breath. There was something thick in the air which I could almost touch. He stopped a foot away, his hands in his pockets as his eyes held mine captive.

“I need you to stop”, he whispered.

“Stop?”

“Whatever you are doing to me.”

I swallowed the lump in my throat.

“I need to get you out of my mind.” His hands reached for my hair and he tucked it behind my ear. “You. You are something else, Pink. I won’t be able to pull away next time”. He promised and walked away.

Part 4: Pursuing Pink

Day at work was even worse than I had expected it to be. Things went out of control when my boss tried to kiss me by dragging towards himself in the storeroom where everything was in dark and so seemed my future. I tried to pull myself out of his grip but the more I tried, the more his grip tightened around my waist. He tried to pull off my shirt but did not succeed doing that as I pulled myself away from him when his one hand moved to my shirt loosening his grip on my waist. But in the act, my shirt got tore off a little and my tears were just not stopping. I tried to run out of the store and possibly out of this work place but he again held me from my back and pushed me towards a wall. I was facing him now and he was just few inches away from my body. I could feel his breaths on my neck, as he was trying his hard to tear my clothes away from my body and claiming all my skin as his property. But fortunately, a customer came in the store and shouted for the attendant and that was the time I ran away from there, possibly on a speed more than that of light. I just did not look behind and didn’t even care to pick up my stuff. Thankfully it was just a bag with not much inside it and of course my jacket. My mind just stopped working at that time and all I knew was the way to Joy’s house and wanted to reach there as soon as possible.

Joy was home. He came before his scheduled time and on the other hand I was late. He was little worried for me coz I had left the note without any alterations in timings so I was expected to be home at the same timings as usual. He made himself comfortable on the couch in the living area instead of going to his room. He was constantly looking at watch and counting minutes by which I was late. And then he heard the voice of the door. Of course it was me opening it else somebody would have knocked. When I opened the door to come in, he was standing just in front of it only. He got shocked to see me in that situation, where my top was all dislocated and my face was pale and the tears were continuously flowing from my eyes and everything in itself told him the half story, if not full.

Without asking any question, he just opened his arms for a hug. At that time all I wanted was a comfortable place, where I can feel safe and nothing was more than Joy’s hug. I just got into his arms like a small kid. I were just crying and with his warm hug all my strength just vanished because now I had someone to protect me and I need not to be strong anymore. He was continuously whispering “OHH PINK don’t worry, all will be fine. Just be little stronger baby. I am here with you now. No one can harm you now. Please Pink stop crying, as I just can’t see you crying.” But all his efforts were going waste as I was unable to control myself and kept on weeping like a small school kid who have got wounds on her knee. I lost all my strength and was literally shivering in Joy’s hug and I don’t remember when I fell unconscious in his arms.

He got even more worried after finding me in that situation. He lifted me in his arms and took me to his room instead of mine. He made me lie down on the bed and went rushing to grab a bottle of water. After feeling some drops of water on my face, which he sprinkled, with a hope that it will bring me back from my unconscious state, I opened my eyes slowly. He helped me to sit back with the back support of his bed and asked me to have some water. I initially said no but after his insistence, I drank some and again started thinking about the whole scene which I had gone through. As he saw me getting worried again; he came closer and hugged me tightly and just said that don’t worry about anything now, I am here with you and will always be, to take care of you and protect you from all the evils. He asked me if I want to share what has happened so that I can feel lighter; and to that I surrendered my closed mindset and shared with him everything that I went through. He held my hands in his, throughout the period I were telling him everything and when I finished and started crying, he hugged me tightly again and consoled me like a caring friend. When I again started to talk about the sorrows of life and all the bad things which I am going through, like a mature man, he gave me his ears with full dedication and gestures assuring me that everything will be fine.

I remember that my closing lines were; “I don’t have anyone in my life to share my sorrows with. I am everyday losing my motive to live and sometimes I just feel that I can only bring sorrows and misfortune to myself and to the people around me. I don’t know why am I living and why can’t I die?” and before I could say another word, which of course I wanted to, I felt his lips sealing mine to stop me to say anything further. He said that he cannot hear any crap like that and he warned me not to even mention anything about dying. He said rather whispered all this while kissing on my lips only. I don’t know why I did not retaliated to his this behavior? This was the first time when I was so close to someone and also that I gave him the liberty to kiss me. And when I got back to my senses a bit, I asked him to give me space so that I can move to my room and change. He got up from my side and allowed me to move. I did not make any eye contacts because I could not understand my own situation and reaction to the situation and to the act that has just happened.

After about 30 minutes, since when I came back to my room, I heard a knock on my door. It was Joy! “Hey Pink, come on and lets have some pizza. I have ordered it for us and its hot right now so before it gets colder, please come fast.” I replied with a no because I was not feeling like having anything and also never wanted to face him. He asked me to open the door. To that also I refused and asked him to leave and have dinner alone. He told me that he knows how to open a locked door if I am not coming out on my own. I knew he was serious. So I opened the door and told him that he can carry on with his plan because I don’t feel like eating. He forcefully grabbed me to dining table and fed my mouth with a slice of pizza. I could see the anger burning in his eyes. I didn’t dare to ask for the explanation for his such behavior and silently had pizza while sitting with him and he was constantly observing me while eating his portion. After finishing our respective shares of pizza I moved back to my room and switched off the lights so that he could assume that I am sleeping. But both of us knew that it’s not going to happen soon. At least not tonight.

Will their closeness for a night, become a reason for their distance? To know the answer to this question and what is in store for them in future, keep reading….. Next part coming soon!

Part 3: Pursuing Pink

A tiring evening but a wonderful night with a sound sleep and the best of all is that I don’t remember a day when I did not worry about the difficulties, hardships and the miseries of my life, except the one which passed by. All I remember is that, the night which just passed by, is the one when I slept like a baby after such a long time. I don’t know how and why did the Joy’s presence and his surroundings did not bother me like the presence of anyone else around me? Why I did not feel unsafe, him being around? Is it something natural or do we have any past relation, something which I heard that you develop in your past birth… the mind was full of questions but I never wanted to discuss it with anyone. Actually I did not have anyone to discuss these things with. I don’t have many friends and there are even very few with whom I share. Sharing also to the minimum possible. May be I were introvert, or since I have seen many things in life & learnt that there is no one who can understand me and do anything to decrease my sorrows.

With all those thoughts, I got up and went to the balcony of my room. Needless to say, the view was stunning and the weather was just as required. I never wanted to leave this place but then suddenly I realized that I have to perform various tasks before leaving for college and that too when its my first day at this place, so it may take more time than normal to know everything and get accustomed with all the procedures and places of the house. I hurriedly brushed my teeth and got dressed into decent looking clothes before stepping out of my room. There I saw Joy working in the kitchen. I apologized for being late and asked him to guide me with the things which he wants me to do and also his taste for the food so that I can cook accordingly. But he just winked and the first question he asked was, how did I sleep? Was it comfortable? And did it scared me to be alone with him? I politely answered his all the questions in one line and that was, everything was fine. Then he told me to observe him today and follow the same in the coming days. I quietly did that and find out that he is a real charmer, with the toned muscles and the lean body, as if he doesn’t take even a pinch extra than required. I was engrossed in his thoughts, completely thinking about him. Suddenly I heard “Pink are you really here?” I woke up from my dreams and realized that he was staring at him as if I am from some other planet and doesn’t look normal. I gave him an ensuring sight that I am back from wherever I was. He again said, “Pink, what would you like to drink with your breakfast?” I could feel the calm and the care in his voice. But instead of answering him, I asked “why do you call me Pink? Don’t you know my name, its Ve….”, but before I could finish, he cut me there and said, “you may forget that night when we met, but I can never forget your first sight when you looked absolutely stunning and gorgeous, wearing your pink lips.” I blushed and said, I would like anything available. Also I saw that he has his refrigerator stuffed with orange juice and nothing else was available as an option.

As we finished having breakfast together, I got up to go to my room so that I can get ready and leave on time for college. There were two reasons for hurrying up with the things, one: the college was far off and it will take about an hour by bus to reach there from Joy’s place and secondly: I never wanted Joy to see me going in the same direction as his so that he should not know that we both goes to same college. I took a quick bath and got dressed in blue denims and white top and also carried my jacket in hand, thinking that it may get cold while coming back. While leaving I informed Joy that I will be back by 6:30 in the evening and prepare dinner. I told him, not because I wanted him to know rather I thought that they are basic manners and since we are living together so we both must know each other’s leaving and arrival timings at least, if not the coordinates. He immediately told me the lock code to the house and told me to inform at the security reception on the ground floor that I have moved in with him so that there won’t be any problem for me to come and go. I followed as told.

College was fine, and work also went well except that my boss again misbehaved with me by touching me on waist and pulling me towards him during the time when no one was around. I wanted to slap him then and there but then I again thought about my job and when my colleague came in back to the room, I could not do much except for tolerating him again. I took a bus after finishing my shift and reached home as per plan. Immediately after changing into my comfort clothes, I started preparing dinner for us and side by side cleaned house in bits and parcels. It was not that dark when Joy entered the house. Since it was his house and of course he knew the lock code to this, he entered without knocking at the door. I got little scared after hearing him first and then when I saw him, I got calmed down knowing that it’s not any thief but him.

“Hey pink, how was your day? And what are we having in dinner tonight?” These were the questions he started his conversation with. Day was as usual and the dinner is placed on the table. You can have it right away, if you are hungry.” To which he replied, “aren’t we having it together?” I were confused if to open up to him or not! But when he insisted, I agreed and we had our meal together. Just to get me engaged in conversation, he kept on asking questions about my likes and dislikes, what I do, where do I work part-time and who all are there in my family. To which I answered him patiently. I don’t know why, but this never happened with me earlier! I always use to tell the other person to mind his or her own business whenever they tried to peek inside my personal life. But this did not happen with him. Again I don’t know why?

Next day I woke up before time, cooked breakfast, vacuumed the living room, and got ready for college. I was really before time. He was sleeping like a baby when I opened his room to inform him about my arrival timings. He was really a treat to eyes. He looked adorably charming and handsome and at the same time an innocent baby, away from all the worries in the world. After looking at him for approximately five minutes or so, I decided to leave a note for him. I put that on the magnet placed at refrigerator and left.

The day at the college went off well and when I was about to leave for work, I saw Joy. My heart skipped a beat as he was looking absolutely dashing in his jersey and I could assume that it must be his practice time. The entire college girls were mad for him and can never afford to miss him seeing playing basketball. I hide myself behind a wall so that he should not see me, and when he just passed from there I went out and rushed to the bus stop to catch a bus to work. I could know that it’s going to be a tough day at work as my colleague was on leave and my boss will surely take benefit of this. I was scared but determined at the same time, to not to remain silent today, if he misbehave today.

To know, what happened to Veronica at work that day and will that be her first step towards Joy….. Stay tuned and keep reading!

Part 2: Pursuing Pink

And finally I told Rhea that I will be meeting this guy first and then will be in a position to take a better decision. She also agreed to my terms. But yes since we never wanted Joy to know that I am in the same college so we decided to meet him casually somewhere. Since it was a Friday night so Rhea suggested to catch up with him in the club to which he was a regular visitor on weekends. I agreed!

We went to the club that night and as the others were doing in the club, we joined them and started dancing on the floor and sipping our drinks, kept on the table. Suddenly Rhea saw Joy. She gave me the signals and dramatically got hit by his back. “You owe me a drink, Joy. I dropped mine while you walked by”. Her tongue snaked out to touch the top of her lip. I hide my wince. She was trying too hard but I did not want to be trapped in her claws all night.

“Hey, babe.” My eyes widened in surprise as a normal girl like me looked babe to the most handsome guy around. Today also I was looking like the most normal in the club. That was the time when Rhea introduced me to Joy by saying that I am with her. And also that I am the same girl which she has talked about with him.

When I didn’t respond and just stared; just at that time, leaning close to me, Joy by letting his lips barely touching my earlobe, whisper, “where have you been?” A smug smile split his lips when he felt my shiver. “I have been looking for you my whole life.”

Rhea and me were drunk at that time and since I never wanted to feel awkward in front of Joy or for that matter in front of anyone, I asked Rhea to get going. Since we had already done the introduction thing with Joy, for which we were here this evening. She also agreed and we started to get going. She told me to wait for her when she went to get her car which was parked little far off from the gate. While I was standing there, it was something in my stomach and chest which was making me feel uncomfortable and by just going into a corner I puked my lungs out. I knew that it was due to the drinks which I drank without even counting. Some guy came and held me from my waist putting me into even worse situation. He was a bad guy and wanted to take benefit of me when I was alone and that too not in my senses, being drunk. Then only I heard a voice coming in from the gate, “Where have you been PINK! It been so long that I have been searching for you.” It was Joy’s voice, after hearing to which the bad guy ran and Joy came to my rescue. I was still not able to stand on my own and he held me from my waist and asked me if I were waiting for someone. I was about to tell him but immediately at that time Rhea honked, actually calling me to get in the car. But as she saw me with Joy, she got out of the car and asked me if I want to shift to my new house today only. Yes, she asked me in front of Joy only, to whose house I was planning to shift, if I would have agreed. She just did not give me enough time to decide and asked Joy to take me along with him if he is going home.

Actually I would have disagreed, but the hero role he played just few minutes ago, did not let me do that. My heart agreed to get into his cozy hug and moved to his house. I knew that his reputation in the college was of a Casanova but he looked the perfect to my heart at that time and since my mind wasn’t working properly, I went with my heart and stayed in the position without giving any retaliating signals for not liking to go with him. Rhea, after seeing me in almost his hug, left for her car and all I heard from Joy’s mouth was a wish to her to drive safe and good night.

“Lets go home Pink”. What is that which I have just heard? What did you just call me? This is all I could ask him when he almost dragged me to his car and made me sit on the passenger side and put a belt around me. I was lying almost half dead on the car seat, but feeling absolutely safe in his company. I wanted to confirm that he knows my name and about the deal which Rhea has fixed with him about me and our barter system. I said “do you know who I am and what are the final terms of the deal?”. He said, “You just cannot be anyone other than my Pink!” But my name is…. Immediately he cut me in between and said I will call you Pink because you are so gorgeously Pink my L… and he just stopped before completing his sentence.

So here we are, this is the house where we will be living together from now on. We entered his apartment after parking his car in the basement and taking the elevator from the basement to the fourth floor. It was a huge apartment with three rooms and a bigger than my imagination kitchen. He showed me my room which I think was a guest room. That too was a huge room with attached bathroom and a balcony which opened to an absolutely mind-blowing view. At that time I just wanted to be in the bed and sleep. And that is exactly what he allowed me to do. 

Part 1: Pursuing Pink: A Love Beyond Words

Why is life cruel for some and an expensive gift to some? Why few people are there just to face the harsh realities whereas few doesn’t even know the meaning of problems? Some are always starving for the best things around them and some can’t even handle the things they have, being in abundance. Some are flooded with the miseries and problems and few are flooded with the happiness and blessings. Life is not uniformly distributed among the man kind, it refuses to give people the equal amount of joys and sorrows, and it doesn’t give everyone the equal share of opportunities and probabilities. The question is WHY?

With all these things running in my mind, I was busy sipping the coffee, which I bought from the café of my college. Then suddenly my thoughts got interrupted with a voice coming from the extreme corner of the café. That was my class fellow shouting my name at her highest pitch possible, VERONICAAAAAAA, Veronica…… I thought she got into some trouble and that is the reason she wants me to be there. Immediately I ran into that corner where I saw few more class fellows sitting and doing some assignment. That was the assignment which we got a week back and they are already late to submit it. And finally I realized that she was shouting for my help in her assignment as I had already submitted mine during the last week only. I helped her and as I got up to leave she pulled me back and made me sit on the chair again.

To my surprise, she asked me if she can help me with something as she could guess that there is some problem with me since few days. I couldn’t control my tears and just burst out in front of her. She consoled me and told me that I can share my things without any fear and hesitation. I felt little cozy in her surroundings and since I needed somebody’s ear dreadfully so finally she proved to be a rescue for me.

I told her that I lost my mom last month, who was battling for life since a year. And now I have no one in this entire world whom I can look up to. The part time work which I am doing to earn my living is not enough for me to survive as I have to manage rent and the college fee and every other daily expenses which cannot be avoided. Also my mother left behind a bank loan, which I only have to pay now. Although I am planning to move to a smaller apartment or may be a room because this big apartment is something I cannot afford nor I want now, but I could not find any, against my all efforts. She gave me a friendly hug and ensured me that she will do something about it and that too soonest possible. At that time I told her to keep it as a secret to herself only as I never wanted to have the sympathies of the other college mates and those unfortunate sights for me to make me feel even deprived and broken. She guaranteed me that she will deal the issue as silently as possible and surely come out with some solution at the earliest.

After talking with her, I felt light and also got a ray of hope that may be there will be a solution to my problems soon. Although I know that my life wont be without problems but I was hopeful that there will be some relief and I can get some cushion to my struggling life. With all these things running in my mind, I thought that today may be I get a better sleep. And while thinking that I will be a better off person, with all the conditions applied to the miseries I am into now, I don’t know when I fell asleep. In the morning when I woke up I have realized that I must be weeping in my sleep coz I had dark circles and big bags below my eyes and also my cheeks were having the signs of the tears. With a negative though early morning regarding the miseries and no end to them, I felt really broken and without the desire for life. I were just living without any positive thing happening to me or around me so I was almost dying everyday inside me.

After 3 days, Rhea again came as a savior to my dying desire for life. She gave me a good news that she could find a solution to my problem and she left the decision to me to take that as a solution or not. Actually there was a twist in her solution too.

She approached Joy, the most wanted hunk and the most eligible bachelor, of our college. He was one among the richest guys and the heartthrob of many girls being the captain of the basketball team. He had a huge apartment in which he was living alone and also he wanted a house help and a cook for his apartment. Rhea did a deal with him that if allows me to stay with him in his apartment, in one of the rooms, I will in return do the household work and also manage cooking for him. And in that way, both of us could get rid of payment mechanism. Actually she was trying to enter both of us into some kind of barter system wherein I was expected to exchange my services for getting a place to stay, free of cost. And I must say, Rhea was a great marketing person with huge talent of convincing others. And that way, Joy could easily agree to her terms. And without missing the fact that she has to be secretive on her this mission, she never mentioned about me as a girl sharing the same class with her and the same college with him. All she said was that a known person is in need. Now the ball was in my court to play. I was left with a tough choice to make!