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Roshni knew more details about Deepak. He had been ready to quit his job for her and to forego the house rent; he did not care about the financial losses because his primary goal was to come to India to spend time with Roshni, and he’d included her on his insurance. She was able to observe him very closely during this trip, and his feelings for her were undisputed. He loved her, and there was no other woman in his life. She became more tolerant of him and opened up to him on a few occasions on other topics; however, when it came to their marriage, she hesitated to confront him.
Deepak, on the other hand, was very thankful he’d made this trip. He was able to understand Roshni better, and his regard and respect for her increased tremendously. She couldn’t tolerate any injustice to anybody, she forgave others, but when it came
to Deepak, she still had some reservations. She held herself at a distance from him. Overall, there was significant improvement in their relationship, and he was very positive that she would forgive him, and he continued to work towards that goal.
There were regular updates between Mumbai, Poona and the USA. Akash, Sheetal, Vivek and Vaishali were pleased with the progress, but they were aware that Roshni was holding back from him. A couple of weeks passed after Dashera, and it was Diwali – the Festival of Lights.
Sashank called Deepak. “Deepak, how are you?”
“Hello, bhaiya, I’m doing well.”
“How is Roshni? You mentioned last time that she was making efforts to walk without crutches now.”
“Yes, bhaiya, a lot of improvement in her condition; she is getting better.”
“Deepak, Diwali is in a week. Why don’t you both come here? It will be good to see you both. Especially, like Kusum and I, it is the first Diwali for you both after your marriage. It would be good to celebrate Diwali together.”
Deepak heard Kusum bhabhi in the background. Deepak liked the idea. He was tempted to go but did not agree to anything yet. He told Sashank bhaiya that he would talk to Roshni and let him know.
It had become a practice for Roshni and Deepak to update each other on all the conversations they had, and most times, they turned on the speaker so they were both involved. Roshni liked this open communication, and it helped her build her trust towards him.
After talking to Sashank, Deepak asked Roshni, “Roshni, what do you say? Sashank bhaiya invited us for Diwali. Do you think you can handle this journey?”
“Not sure…I’m still unable to walk long distances, so…why don’t you go to Mumbai and be with them. This is a great opportunity for you to celebrate Diwali with family after a long time,” Roshni responded. She was cautious; she never said ‘your family’ this time.
“Family…are you not my family? How can I leave you here alone and go?”
Frankly, Deepak did not want to go to Mumbai. He enjoyed this time with Roshni – just them with no interruptions – and this bonding time was absolutely necessary for both of them, and they were aware of it.
“I’m happy being here, and this is the first time I will celebrate Diwali with you. What more do I want?” Then instantly he made the decision. “Let’s not go. Let’s just stay here, Roshni,” he said and looked for her approval.
Roshni had already noticed that Deepak did not miss any opportunity to be with her, and secretly, she also liked his company. She nodded and gave her approval.
Deepak called back Sashank to inform him that they could not go to Mumbai because Roshni’s condition did not permit it at this time. Meanwhile, Roshni was all excited because of Diwali; she was sad, too, for she missed her babuji, but Deepak’s presence made a difference. She looked forward to celebrating Diwali with him. She planned on what sweets to make, what clothes to buy, and how to decorate the house. Deepak noticed this excitement in her and supported her in all ways possible.
~ ~ ~
Roshni’s project was almost complete, and she submitted her part of the work at the Thursday group meeting. Everybody was happy she completed it on time, and she thanked Deepak for all his help and support. Bhaskar, the project manager, told her that the remaining work was on schedule, and the launch was scheduled for December 6th. He communicated that she would not be bothered for the next few weeks, and she should enjoy the time with Deepak.
Bhaskar adjourned the team meeting, and Roshni was satisfied. After they hung up the phone, Roshni slowly got up and looked towards Deepak. “Deepak, thank you for all the help and support with the project. I enjoyed learning lot of things.” She headed towards the kitchen.
That morning’s doctor’s appointment had gone well. There was good improvement in her condition, and she just had a sling now on her left arm and a cast on her foot for support. Her foot was still healing, but she was able to walk more without crutches.
Suddenly she felt a jerk, and she bumped into Deepak’s chest. Deepak was very quick and pulled her to him, holding her by the waist. Their eyes locked, a very passionate look indeed!
Deepak stared into her eyes. “Only thank you, Roshni?”
Roshni wondered what else he expected. “What more do you want?”
Deepak pulled her closer to him and stared at her very passionately. He thought, You don’t get it, do you? I need a kiss and a hug, Roshni, but his thoughts were interrupted.
“Deepak, hmm…shall I make some kheer since you like it?”
Deepak couldn’t take his eyes off her. A fire blazed to life within; she felt his breath closer to her face, and he felt her breath on his chest.
“Kheer!” He smirked.
And before Roshni could say anything, he stooped and pecked her cheek. She lost her balance and held onto his shirt tight, crumpling it. After a few moments she gained her control and freed herself from him.
