Chapter 21: Friends and enemies

In the room where the event was being held, there were several large circular tables in the huge function room, draped in pristine white table clothes, and shining cutlery and crystal cut glasses, that glittered under the bright lights overhead, and it was now steadily filling with people.

The food was going to be served, then the family and patrons of The Gilpins Charity trust would get on with the dedication to Jay and his family, before the actual jollities of the Ball, with the band and dancing, which would commence late into the night.

Kabir led Pooja over to one of the tables across the room, and she was glad to see the familiar friendly face of Kabir's father P k Mittal, who greeted her with a warm smile.

"Ah Pooja, I have to say you are liking particularly lovely tonight, It's good to see you here, we have to see more of you dear, this is the first time from you and Kabir married, that I have set eyes on you"

"True, I am sorry about that," Pooja apologised, "I have been very busy adjusting to my new married life" she replied which was pretty close to the truth

P k smiled, "Say no more, I guess you and Kabir still being relatively newly weds, you both have no time for anyone else but each other still," he winked

Pooja just gave a little laugh, not sure how to reply to the obvious implication, unable to meet the amused look in Kabir's brown eyes, as he glanced to see her reaction before adding.

"Yes, I will admit I am finding it difficult to want to share my lovely wife with others yet, I just can't seem to get enough of her" Pooja knew it was his way of teasing her, but it still made her face heat up

"Why Kabir, I do believe you are making the poor girl blush," Suman drawled as she came up from behind them, overhearing Kabir's comment, she smiled her tight smile, as she now eyed Kabir and Pooja, "Such open declarations of feelings, so unlike you Kabir, I believe Pooja surely has bewitched you.. But then I guess love does that to you?"

Pooja's grip on Kabir's arm had tightened as she felt herself tense, suddenly wondering if Suman was going to say or do anything to upset Kabir.

"Well you should know," Kabir replied smoothly as his eyes remained steadily on his step mothers face, his smile as false as hers, "You seem to have had the same affect on my father

"Touché" Suman replied lightly, "Its nice to know we are all in the same boat...being in love that is," she then finished meaningfully, but then turned her attention to her husband putting her hand on his arm, "Sorry to pull you away, but Vyom needs to speak with you urgently, "You will excuse us won't you?" Suman turned her attention back to Kabir and Pooja, "Only Vyom does want tonight to go well, and make sure it meets with your father's approval, he knows how important it is"

"Don't let us hold you back, I know how much Vyom needs my father's approval" Kabir replied easily, but the jibe wasn't lost on Suman, whose expression hardened momentarily before she led Kabir's father away.

Pooja turned anxiously to Kabir once they were gone, "Do you think you should goad her like that? I mean she could easily retaliate with what she knows about me," she pointed out worriedly.

"She won't say anything tonight, she won't want to make any trouble. This is a chance for Vyom to shine, and let my father see what a good responsible guy he is, she won't want anything to spoil it." Kabir replied confidently

"All the same, my heart was in my mouth," Pooja replied, "I am so nervous," she admitted, glancing around the room and starting to recognise some well known faces from television, as well as politicians, that made her eyes widen.

"You are doing fine," Kabir patted her hand "Don't let the surroundings overwhelm you, I want you to try and enjoy yourself"

Pooja just smiled, thinking that it was easier said than done.

Pooja was glad to find herself sitting between Kabir and his father at the table. During the meal, Suman Kavya and Vyom were also there, but as it seated about ten people there were plenty of others sitting around to keep the conversation flowing and Pooja not having to pay too much attention to the rest of Kabir's family.

Although she was aware of Vyom's eyes leering at her occasionally, where he sat across the table opposite her, it made her a little uneasy. But she decided not to say anything to Kabir in case she was just being paranoid, and imagining things.

She soon put it out of her mind once the meal had finished, and it was time for the dedication to start. She was feeling a little anxious for Kabir and his father during this solemn and moving occasion,

Both of them would be getting up to give speeches about Jay and his family, and talk about how much the Charity event had meant to them and also how hard they had worked behind the scenes, to make it what it was today.

Kabir's speech was short and almost sounded impersonal, But Pooja now knew him well enough to understand he was not one for public displays of emotion. Getting up and speaking about his brother was very difficult for him, so when he finished and returned to the table, she reached out to grab his hand giving it an understanding squeeze. In return he shot her a small grateful smile

She continued to hold onto his hand as his father give a more emotional speech about Jay, and how much they were missed, before he unveiled a special plaque that had been mounted on a wall in the room, dedicated to His dead son and his wife.

The room thundered with the applause, as he did so. Pooja could see P k Mittal was overcome, and just about manage to keep it together as he returned to the table

But then determined that it should be a happy occasion, he insisted they get on with the festivities, and hoped everyone would enjoy themselves, he knew that was what Jay would want.

The dishes were swiftly removed from the tables, and the band got busy setting up at the far end of the room, where there was space on the floor to dance. The atmosphere became much more relaxed.

People now milled about from table to table exchanging conversation with each other And Pooja found herself being introduced to several people, who came over to their table to talk to Kabir and his father

A few of them remarked on how surprised they were at the swiftness of Kabir's sudden marriage, and congratulating them. Pooja let Kabir do most of the talking, preferring to stay in the background just in case she said the wrong thing.

It was inevitable as the night went on, that they would get separated. Kabir having to mingle with other people there and getting pulled away, and Pooja found herself in the ladies room to check on her make up, and try and remember the tips she had given her, about touching it up

She was standing in front of the crowded mirror, that went along the length of the wall, and was opening her purse when she heard the familiar voice of Kavya, who came into the room also. with to other women. She caught Kavya glancing at her through the mirror, then casually approaching her, Pooja felt her guard go up, and pretended to be more interested in opening the top of her lipstick, than noticing Kavya just behind her.

But it seemed Kavya was determined to make her notice her, as she spoke loud enough for those around to hear.

"Well Pooja, I think this is the first time I actually have had the chance to speak with you tonight, everything has been such a whirl, how are you enjoying the evening? I hope it hasn't been too overwhelming for you?" she said, with what Pooja knew was, mock concern

"No," Pooja turned forcing herself to smile, "it's been a lovely evening so far, and it's for a very worthy cause"

"Oh yes, of course, you are into worthy causes, if I am right?" Kavya smiled just a little too sweet for Pooja's liking..

"Yes that's right, I am," she returned as pleasantly as she could and turned back to the mirror to apply her lipstick.

"So, how is married life with Kabir? Is it living up to your expectations?" Kavya then asked pushing her way in, so she was standing next to Pooja, and eyeing her through the mirror as she opened her own purse.

"So far, so good," Pooja replied curtly, she had no intentions of discussing her marriage with his ex wife

"Glad to hear it, of course it is still early days yet, to make a judgment," Kavya replied as she applied a touch of blusher to her cheeks

"I know from experience he can have his caring moments, and can be very charming when he chooses to be, I was quite taken with him at one time," she continued conversationally,

"You know it was at this very event six years ago that we actually got together," she then laughed "Well it wasn't in this hotel, and not quite such a grand event then, but I remember we spent all night talking and dancing and he then took me home and we shared our first kiss. Every one remarked how good we looked together.. I don't suppose he told you all that?" Kavya's black eyes stared at Pooja questioningly through the mirror.

"No actually, he didn't," Pooja replied, not sure why Kavya was telling her all this, was she trying to make her jealous? If so, it was a pathetic attempt.

She now turned to face her, and let her see she was not in the least bothered, as she added "In fact he rarely mentions you at all,"

She was pleased to see the slight smug look on Kavya's face vanish

But quickly recovering Kavya shrugged, "Typical I suppose, but then all he cares about is the family business, and expanding his damned empire. He selfishly hangs onto it, always thinking he knows what is best for everyone," she finished, her tone hinting a certain amount of resentment

"Vyom could do the job just as good as he can, but just because he doesn't have the Mittal blood, Kabir doesn't deem my husband good enough to be part of the Mittal empire. But I still think he resents the fact that I left him for Vyom, and this is his way of punishing us.. that's the kind of man your husband is, petty and vindictive" Kavya then stated coolly

It took all Pooja's effort to keep her cool, "I guess you are entitled to your opinion. But I imagine your view of things are probably tainted with your past experience with Kabir. which I fully understand under the circumstances," she replied in mock sympathy,

"But forgive me if I don't agree with you about my husband, and I would rather not hear any more about it. I have no intention of getting caught in the middle of the bitter battle of whatever happened to you both in the past. And this is really not the time or place to drag it all up. Surely even you must realise that" she snapped icily

Having put Kavya in her place, and silencing her, and aware that most eyes and ears were upon their little exchange in the crowded ladies room, Pooja took the opportunity to make a hasty escape, and pushed her way through towards the door.

She had almost reached it, when she heard Kavya's voice again, the woman had obviously had too much to drink, and didn't know how to hold her tongue

"By the way, did I mention how well you look tonight, I guess marrying Kabir has paid of in the end." Kavya drawled You have certainly come up in the world I believe, thanks to his generosity. No wonder you want to remain loyal to him, understandable I suppose under the circumstances," she finished meaningfully

It had suddenly gone very quiet in the ladies room.

But Pooja decided she would not to be drawn into a public slanging match, even if she did really want to turn around and defend herself, and scratch Kavya's eyes out. So with what dignity she could muster, and refusing to look back in Kavya's direction, she reached the door and walked out.

Once outside the door, Pooja just suddenly wanted to escape, and be alone somewhere to calm her thudding heart and nerves as she realised she was actually shaking after the encounter, But it was hard to find anywhere private in the crowded noisy room, and she couldn't see Kabir anywhere she then realised in dismay.

Then she felt a light tap on her shoulder, making her turn around, and found herself looking into a pair of sympathetic black eyes of a dark haired woman. She now recalled Kabir had introduced the dark haired woman to her earlier as Riddima, who was the daughter of one of his father's business partners.

"My dear, don't take any heed of what Kavya said back there," she advised, Pooja felt her cheeks burn, realising the woman had been a witness to the little scene in the ladies room also.

"I have known Kabir longer than she has, we go way back, and the worse mistake he ever made was marrying her," Riddima then stated grimly

Pooja managed a small smile, realising the woman was trying to make her feel better, and on closer inspection of Ridimma, realised she would be around Kabir's age.

"I guess she wanted to make a public scene to humiliate me, and I let her" she then said ruefully, "I should have walked out of the ladies as soon as she came in" she then said with a small frown.

"Don't let it worry you, anyone could see she has been drinking far too much, and making a fool of herself. Personally I think it was just spiteful jealousy, and if I can see that, so will others," Riddima told her

"I hope so," Pooja sighed realising with some dismay that Kavya's last shot did have a ring of truth in it. Which was why it had upset her more,

Once people realised her background, which she felt sure Suman or Kavya would somehow slip out for public knowledge, one way or the other through time, they were all going to assume she had married Kabir for his money.

"Kavya is the spoilt selfish sort, always wanting to be the centre of attention. Which is why she probably caused that little scene back there," Riddima then said, "She got a great kick out of having an affair behind Kabir's back with his stepbrother, knowing Kabir and Vyom didn't see eye to eye. And she enjoyed seeing him humiliated when she finally left him for Vyom and made a big 'hoo-ha' of being the poor neglected wife during the divorce."

"I see," Pooja replied, "Kabir has never really discussed his marriage break up with me"

"Understandable I suppose, it was not an easy time for him," Riddima said, "poor Kabir, it seems everyone he cares about either leaves him, either through dying or betraying him. Is it any wonder he tends to put his business first in his life and buried himself in his work, I guess he felt he can rely on that."

"I suppose so," Pooja said thoughtfully, Riddima had unwittingly giving her another perspective on Kabir she had never really considered before

"I was always worrying about him. He can be a bit distant and aloof with people, but that is just his way of protecting himself, and then people read him all wrong. I know he is a very caring person underneath. I think you have realised that too, that's why I am so glad he met you, and got married again. I have been watching you both tonight, and I can see you are very happy together, and that you adore one another" Riddima beamed

Pooja managed to smile, not sure what to say to this.

She suddenly felt like a complete fake. Suddenly she was uncomfortable looking Riddima in the eye.

The woman was obviously a good friend of Kabir's and wanted him to be happy and in love, and she thought Pooja was doing that. But in truth it was all a farce, and she suddenly felt guilty it was one thing deceiving strangers, but friends were another thing.

"And I think Kavya sees it as well," Riddima continued, thinking Pooja's awkwardness was still a result of what had happened in the ladies room, " She doesn't want Kabir, but she is the sort who doesn't want anyone else to have him either; she begrudges him being happy. So like I said, do not take any heed of her, she is the petty vindictive one"

"You are obviously a good friend of Kabir's," Pooja finally spoke up, "I am glad he has friends like you," she added sincerely

"Yes well, like I said, we go way back, actually we all grew up together, and we are practically like sister and brother I guess, I am just glad I got this chance to finally meet and talk to you, and now perhaps I can become your friend too" Riddima replied

"I think I would like that," Pooja told her warmly.

"Ah there you are!" Kabir's voice interrupted them, as he came up from behind them "I wondered where you had got to, but I see you are in good hands" he smiled at Riddima

"Well someone has to take care of her, when you are not around, we can't leave her open and defenceless against the wolves, like your beloved ex wife" Riddima replied. dryly

Kabir's smile faded "Why what has Kavya done now?" he demanded, his expression becoming stony

"It was nothing," Pooja hurriedly put in, "I think she has just had too much to drink, and got a bit too vocal with her opinion.. but Riddima was telling me it was best to just ignore her"

"I see," Kabir replied tersely not looking in the least pleased. As he glanced around the room looking out for Kavya

"But really, it doesn't matter, she done me a favour," Pooja then put in, trying to placate him, not wanting to cause any more trouble, "Because of her, I got talking to Riddima, and found a new friend," she then explained cheerfully

"Well I am glad some good come out of it," Kabir said eyeing the two women his expression softening and smiling, "I wanted you to become friends"

"Well you got your wish," Riddima replied, "Now why don't we go and get ourselves a drink and celebrate our friendships, old and new" she suggested putting her arm through his.

"That sounds like a splendid idea," Kabir said, then offered Pooja his other arm. She happily took it, just relieved that he had forgotten all about Kavya for now.

« Chapter 22: A few home truths

But Kabir was not letting it go as easily as Pooja hoped. The first chance he could, he insisted that she get up and dance with him, and then as they danced close together on the crowded floor, he proceeded to interrogate her about what had happened in the ladies room with Kavya.

She gave him a more shortened version of what occurred, deciding to leave out the bit where Kavya claimed Kabir was being petty and spiteful, and trying to get back at her, for leaving him.

"I think Suman has probably told Vyom and Kavya about our little conversation a few weeks back," Pooja then said worriedly, "at least that's the feeling I got with her parting shot. Goodness only know what she will say to others, about me, but she made it plain enough to everyone in the ladies room, that I only married you for some kind of personal advantage, because of your wealth"

"She never could control that tongue of hers when she has had too much to drink, and she has got worse from she married Vyom, he encourages her" Kabir grimaced, "But Riddima is right, people will realise it is just that, the drink talking, and not pay her much attention"

"And there will be those who do," Pooja said feeling a little depressed as she thought of the many distinguished guests here tonight who knew Kabir, and were now probably wondering what kind of person she was.

After all, it was her reputation at stake.

She shook her head "Either way, I feel I am not going to come out of this very well. People will listen to Kavya and think I married you for your money, then those who don't believe her like Riddima, are convinced we are madly in love, and that's a lie too.."

" So what makes Riddima think we are madly in love?" Kabir asked his brown eyes suddenly becoming alert with interest, as they resting on Pooja's face

Pooja felt the heat rise in her cheeks again, realising this could get awkward,

"I am not sure, she said something about she getting that impression watching us together tonight, she thinks we are very happy together" she attempted to make light of it, almost being dismissive.

"Really?" Kabir smiled,

Pooja supposed he might find it amusing, although she couldn't find the humour in it herself

"I guess we must be doing something right after all," he then murmured

She felt a slight irritation rise inside her that he didn't realise how upset she was over all this.

"Are we? I wish I could be so sure, because I feel like crap at the moment"

"Don't feel like that," Kabir's arms tighten around her, pulling her closer, so she was pressed right up against him as they slowly circled the room "You have not done anything wrong; it was me who started this whole thing, I was the one who more or less forced you into marrying me. I am sorry you seem to be taking the flak for it tonight,"

A mischievous twinkle came into his eyes, "I could go over and shove something in Kavya's mouth to shut her up, though I am not sure I can find anything big enough" he added as he glanced around him as if to look for some object

"That's not very nice," Pooja remonstrated, trying to sound reproving, but failed as she started to giggle at the thought of Kabir carrying out his threat.

"But it's the truth," Kabir stated, his own expression becoming a little more serious.

"I don't like it that she upset you like this and trying to cause trouble, but if she wants something to talk about, I think we should give it to her," he then said thoughtfully

"What do you mean?" Pooja asked warily seeing a certain gleam come into Kabir's eye

"Just trust me Pooja," he then murmured as he closed in on her, and before she realised his intentions, his mouth was covering hers, at first she stiffened in his arms, mortified that he was doing this in a very public place and her immediate reaction was to pull away.

She didn't dare struggle, or try to break free from his firm hold, because she knew that would only draw even more attention from those around them.

And despite her first reluctance she found her mind and body responding to his caress, relenting to the persuasive pressure of Kabir's kiss, and forgetting about everything else around her and only aware of the delicious sensations he was sending through her body, wanting and needing more.

She wasn't sure how long the kiss lasted, only that she was clinging to him when they finally came up for air, there was an intensity in his brown eyes that seem to swallow her up then she felt his cheek brush against hers, and his warm breath beside her ear,

"I just want to let you know Pooja, that Riddima is right, I am very happy with you," he murmured, "Are you happy with me?"

His eyes were on her again, as if they were penetrating her soul as he waited on her reply

"Yes," she manage to say breathlessly, although she wasn't sure if he could hear the faintness of her voice above the sudden pounding of her heart in her ears

"Good," A slight smile curved his lips, "so, that means your conscience is clear, and you can stop worrying that everyone thinking you are living some sort of a lie, because really, you are not," he pointed out softly, before kissing her briefly on the lips, as the song came to an end.

Pooja let Kabir lead her away from the dance floor, feeling a little dazed. Her mind whirled trying to figure out the implications of what had just occurred between them. What exactly had he been trying to tell her? That he really cared for her, and she had just admitted that she cared for him?

Or had he just been very clever?

Strengthening his position, to make sure she was going to keep her end of the bargain.

Emotionally manipulating her again, to make her feel less guilty about the fact their marriage was a farce, as well as getting her to admit she had feelings for him?

Pooja knew how important it was for him, to keep the family business out of Suman and Vyom's hands, and the fact he needed her to stick with him and carry through with his plan to have children.

She hated doubting the sincerity of his words, wanting to believe him.

But it still gnawed in her gut that he could be just playing her. She knew some of the lengths he had been prepared to go to when he had married her in the first place.

But would he go as far as to purport that his feelings for her were changing into something more, just to make her stay with him? Although, she realised he been careful never mentioned the word love once in his endearments

She was still trying to sort it out in her head, as they made their way back to the table, when she caught sight of Kavya's eyes on her.

The venomous expression on the other woman's face told Pooja she had just witnessed the little scene, and was not happy. If Kabir's tactic of kissing Pooja in public was to annoy his ex wife, it seemed he had succeeded.

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"Dammit!" Pooja swore as she attempted to remove her necklace, but undoing the tiny clasp was proving difficult.

It was later on that evening they had returned home, Pooja had just come out of the bathroom having scrubbing if her make up and letting her hair down, and was now trying to undress.

Kabir, who was unbuttoning his shirt just across the bedroom from her, came over. "Here let me" he offered coming to stand behind her.

Pooja seem to hesitate before accepting his offer, but then let her hands drop to her sides, and turned, bending her head slightly to let him get on with it

He pushed her hair aside so he could get at the clasp of the necklace to undo it, as he did so his knuckles brushed lightly against the warm skin of her neck, making her shiver slightly

"Sorry about that," he apologised as he finally undid the clasp, and removing the necklace

Kabir couldn't help noticing Pooja seemed strangely quiet and brooding since they came home from the Charity Ball, he wasn't sure why, perhaps it was the stress of the night, but it made the atmosphere around them a little strained. He put it down to the fact she was still upset about what Kavya had said, and was still cursing his ex wife.

In an attempt to ease her strange mood, his hands came up and started to gently massage her shoulders and neck in an attempt to get her to relax.

"My, you feel so tense," he remarked, "I know the night has been a bit of a strain on you, and Kavya upset you, but its all over with now, don't let it bother you anymore, she is not worth it"

The tautness of her muscles under his massaging fingers started to ease a little, much to his relief, so much so she let herself relax against him

"Better?" murmured softly, his hands now sliding down to go around her waist, his lips drawn to the pale revealing skin at the base of her neck to kiss it, feeling the desire for her growing.

"God, you are so beautiful!" he then told her as he continue to nuzzle her neck, pressing her closer to him, but then felt her tense again

"Y'know, you don't have to say things like that"

Something in her tone of voice, punctured the haze of desire, making Kabir stop in his tracks and lift his head. She now turned to look at him, a small shaky smile on her lips as she met his questioning brown eyes

"What I mean is, there is no need to use such endearments in the privacy of our bedroom. There is no public audience to hear them, so you don't have to act like we are madly in love, or try to prove anything,"

Although she attempted to sound light hearted, almost joking, there was a tremor of emotion in her tone and an underlying hint of mockery that made him frown.

"Where did all that come from?" he demanded, unable to hide the slight surprise in his voice

She let out a small brittle laugh "Oh C'mon Kabir, that's all it is; an act to convince everyone we are in love. You almost had me believing it to. And what better way to make sure I stay with you. than tonight's little show you put on, especially for your ex wife Kavya. I bet you enjoyed every minute of rubbing it in to her," Pooja said, before shrugging

"But then I shouldn't complain; you have paid me generously for my services, being your wife and that one day I will have your children. Being the pawn in the little bitter battle you have going with your ex wife and family. And now you expect I should be grateful that you are throwing grains of affection in my direction too, just to keep me sweet.

"I don't know what the hell you are talking about," Kabir replied, in bewilderment, "I thought, you were pissed with Kavya, when did it suddenly turn on me?"

"Kabir, I am not stupid; I know what you were doing. I mean tonight when you kissed me at the Charity Ball, and all that stuff being happy with me, it was all part of your game plan, and a sweet way to stick it to your ex wife for what she done on you, is that not true?" her hazel eyes challenging him to try and deny it

Kabir's smile was humourless, his eyes narrowed as he studied her face, but his tone was steady when he finally replied,. "I hate to disappoint you, but it seems you have been over-analysing things, and you are crediting me for being far more calculating in my motives tonight, than I could ever dream of. But perhaps that's more to do with your problem, than mine"

"What does that mean?" Pooja asked uncertainly

"Only that its easier for you to believe, and convince yourself that I couldn't have possibly meant what I said to you tonight, because you don't think I could really come to care about you. And in thinking that, you can also convince yourself it would be foolish of you, to care about me.. I think that is what is really scaring you"

The astute remark struck home, and Pooja's eyes lowered from his, "That's rubbish," she said, but without great conviction in her voice.

Kabir put his hand under chin, and tilted her head up so she had to look him in the eye again

"Is it?" he queried softly

Unable to give him a straight answer she just frowned, "Well, how can you care about me? You said yourself that night we were in Rome that you preferred we kept it more business like, without the romance. You said you had married for love before and it hadn't worked, and didn't want that sort of marriage again.. So why should I believe you now? Those were the rules you lay down back then; remember?" she reminded him, "So all I am doing is trying to play by your rules"

"I see," Kabir replied, his expression becoming thoughtful, "Funnily enough, Rome now seems like such a long time ago," he realised with retrospect , "But you are right, they were my rules, at the time" he conceded ruefully, making Pooja feel a little triumphant and justified in all she had said to him.

But it didn't last long. Because Kabir was now smiling, and looking almost wolfish as he stepped with some deliberation closer to her, his face only inches from hers, she could feel the heat of his body so close next to hers

"But you know what they say about rules?", his tone was deceivingly, casual and low, yet almost seductive in its power, Pooja found she was suddenly holding her breath, her eyes now locked with his

" Um w-what do they say?" she dared herself to respond to his question, in a slight uncertain tone

His hand moved around the back of her neck, then started to untie the knot that held the halter straps of her dress together, as he started to speak. His tone still held that husky seductive note

"Well, I believe they say, that they are meant to be broken,"

Having succeeded in untying the straps around her neck, his hands now moved onto the zipper at the back of her dress, undoing it with the same deliberation as he continued,

"And seeing I made those rules, I think I should be the one who is allowed to break them when I chose to; don't you agree?"

Pooja found her dress now lay in a satin pool around her feet and she n stood before him in just her underwear. She felt the heat of Kabir's hands as they lightly caressed her bare skin, sending an involuntary thrill shuddering through her

"I-I guess so," she admitted breathlessly, all her resolve to stand up to him melting, to be replaced with something else quite different

"Good, I am glad you agree with me, it makes it so much easier," Kabir said, his arm now snaking around her and pulling her against him,

"So when I tell you that you are beautiful, and I am very happy with you. I am not saying it for anyone else benefit but yours.. Understood?" his brown eyes bore into hers.

Pooja just nodded, suddenly too overcome with emotion to speak, feeling like her heart was soaring out of her chest. The moment was all too surreal for her to believe it was really happening.

Kabir's brown eyes were suddenly filled with a mixture of tenderness and lust as he smiled at her in satisfaction, glad that he had finally got through to her.

Then he proceeded to kiss her, and then lifted her of her feet, carrying her over to the bed, to finish of what he started.

« Chapter 23: Good, and not so good stuff going on

With his elbow propped up on his pillow, and his chin resting on his cupped palm, Kabir's brown eyes lazily rested on the sleeping form of Pooja the following morning as she lay next to him in their bed

He wasn't sure when it happened. When she came to mean so much to him. Perhaps deep down, he could trace it way back to the first time of their meeting

When she had confronted him over the woman's Refuge, and had challenged him, there had been that spark in her hazel eyes; a spark that had intrigued him like no other female had been able to do.

The spark that had ignited something within him, which had led him wanting to see her again, also to prove to her that the bad opinion she had of him was wrong, and she could trust him.

Why that had mattered at the time, he wasn't sure.

He realised now, that it had more or less subconsciously led to him manoeuvre the events that led him to proposing her, and make her his

It had been a big risk, there had been so many differences to over come. But he was a business man, and risks where part and parcel of what he had to take if he wanted something bad enough. So he had taken the business man's approach that she just happen to more or less suit his purposes.

There was no way he would admit that his feelings for her was based on something stronger. Partly because he was uncertain himself of what was going on.

She had so easily been able to mess with his head and heart, without even trying very hard, and seemed blissfully unaware of it.

At that time he was not in a position to accept it.

Being cautious, and having harden his own heart after his own personal loss of his family and the betrayal of his first wife, he had not been particularly looking to fall in love.

He had been honest, and told her that. But it was something he had come to regret later, after she had questioned his motives, when he had told her he did care for her

He guessed it was probably on the night of their wedding he really became aware of how much he cared about her. Seeing her so vulnerable and upset, all he had wanted to do was take care of her, it had crumbled that uncaring façade he had thought he had built up around himself into dust.

The final turning point had been when he realised he had started gained her trust, and hopefully her heart . When she had stopped looking him with wary suspicion, and there was a warmth in her eyes for him, even if she did not want to admit it openly.

That was until last night, especially after she told him what Riddima had said.

It was then he decided that if everyone else thought they were in love, it was crazy that they shouldn't finally admit it to themselves, and that they had come to mean more to each other now.

He was just glad he had manage convinced Pooja also in the end.

She had been so prickly and defensive with him, ready to think bad of him again. But he knew, and understood why.

After all his past conduct in forcing her into marrying him, had to make her suspicious of his motives. But hopefully given her the reassurance she needed it certainly wasn't through the want of trying.

As he watched her sleeping next him now, he was pleased to see she was looking very contented. He couldn't resist bending over to kiss her, first her cheek, his mouth sliding lightly down to her lips

She stirred with a small sigh, and finally opened her eyes to find Kabir leaning over, smiling as his brown eyes examining her face, as if trying to absorb every inch of it now that he could.

"Good Morning," he then greeted her

"Morning," she replied suddenly recalling the night before and what had occurred. It give her a warm fuzzy feeling all over, and for a few seconds she wondered if it had been a dream, but the look in Kabir's brown eyes told her it had been very real, and still was.

She reached out to rest her hand on his cheek, to feel the strong jaw line, before she continued to go on exploring letting her fingers get lost in his short dark hair as his head bent to nuzzle the hollow of her neck

It was so much easier now that she didn't have to show any restraint for her feeling for him, and just revel in his caresses. It was even better being able to admit to herself she loved, and wanted to feel him right next to her like this. And even now she felt her body waken with renewed desire for him as he pulled her into his arms.

"Y'know, I was thinking, it's kindda crazy," she then laughed a little breathlessly as she tried hard to keep some semblance of control, whilst Kabir started to nibble on her ear and sending little thrills down her spine

"Hmm?" was Kabir's only response, undeterred as his mouth and hands continued their exploration

"Well, just people usually fall in love then get married, and mostly end up falling out of love, I guess we did it the other way around" she then pointed out in amusement

Kabir paused to look at her for a moment, "Actually I think that's a good sign, don't you?"

"I hope so," Pooja smiled up at him a little uncertainly. Right now everything still seemed too good to be true, and she was still waiting for the bubble to burst

"I know so," he replied as he kissed her, and she let herself surrender to the sweetness, that sent all her doubts and fears dissipating, as she responded to the hungry demand of his lips on hers.

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"So you are having lunch with Kabir again? That is the second time this week. Hmm, anyone would think you two couldn't get enough of each other," Mandira remarked with a hint of dry humour and a mischievous twinkle in her eye as she glanced at Pooja, as they sat in her office

Mandira, who was aware of the circumstances of their marriage in the beginning, and also the first one to notice that that Pooja was falling for her husband Kabir; liked to rub it in that she had been right, at every opportunity. And now Pooja had more or less openly admitted that her and Kabir did care about each other, it seemed Mandira was never going to let her live it down that she had once tried to deny it.

"Actually he says he needs to speak with me, because he has something important we need to discuss," Pooja informed her, "And as he will be working late, he thought it would be a good idea we had lunch together"

"No need to get all defensive and on your high horse," Mandira continued to tease, "I mean he is your husband, its only right you want to spend time together and everything, after all that's what husbands and wives do, and it's a good thing too, don't you agree?"

Pooja grinned, "I guess so, but it is totally ridiculous y'know at the same time, I mean every time I hear his voice, I feel like some love struck teenager, and I keep telling myself to get a grip," she confessed with a guilty giggle

Mandira chuckled, "Well I could say I hadn't noticed, but that would be a lie. Still I am glad that it has turned out this way for you both in the end, and you are happy, who would have thought it would turn out like this in the beginning?"

"Not me, that's for sure," Pooja replied with a sigh, " All I was caring about was the Refuge and the things I could do, as well as helping Kabir into the bargain. I guess I saw myself nobly sacrificing my own freedom for the good of others, and hoping it would turn out ok, because I was doing the right thing, I never dreamt I could come to really care about him"

"Well it seemed to have turned out better than ok, thankfully," Mandira remarked

"Yep it has, well except there is still one teeny weeny blot in the horizon that has been worrying me lately" Pooja then looked a little troubled

"What's that?" Mandira turned enquiring eyes on her friend.

Pooja shifted uneasily, "Well, I think Kabir was hoping I would have got pregnant by now.. Not that he has said anything openly to me, but I know it is still important to him. After all the whole reason why he wanted to get married was to produce heirs, to keep his greedy step family from getting their hands on his business, and whether our feelings have changed for each other or not, it is still remains the case in point. And well this morning, lets just say I realised I haven't be fallen pregnant this month either," she finished gloomily

"I see," Mandira replied understandingly

"I mean at the beginning, the having babies bit, was something I had mixed feelings about, I didn't really want to get pregnant right away, because I was happy starting college and helping out here, although if it happened it happened," Pooja then explained, "But now, well things have changed, and I really want it to happen, only I am worried it won't" she frowned, as she looked across at Mandira.

"What I mean is, just say it turns out I can't get pregnant or something? How is that going to affect things? A few months ago, the way things were between us, we could have probably happily separated with this knowledge, and Kabir might have found someone else and I probably would have been relieved in someway to be let of the hook... but not now, and I am scared how it is going to affect us if it turns out we can't have children, will Kabir still want to be with me?" she finished in anxious dismay

"Pooja, aren't you jumping way ahead of yourself on this?" Mandira replied calmly, in an attempt to sooth her

"I mean c'mon, how long have you and Kabir been married, just over three months? It's a bit early to start panicking about it," she pointed out

"Do you think so?" Pooja queried still looking worried

"Yes," Mandira laughed, "Really Pooja, sometimes these things take a bit more time, and getting yourself all worked up and worried about it will not help. So my advice to you is stop fretting, and it will happen. I was married nine months before I fell pregnant, so you still have plenty of time" she then pointed out

Pooja sighed, realising Mandira was probably right, "I can't help it at times though, for some reason I am always imagining the worse possible scenario, especially when things start going good for me, because sometimes I feel I don't deserve to be this happy" she then confessed in a small voice.

"You do talk a load of old rot," Mandira told her in her 'no nonsense' tone. But then she got up and came over to give Pooja a comforting hug "Let me tell you something, if anyone deserves some happiness it is you. So just enjoy it, and make the most of it, and stop worrying about things that may never happen, it will get you nowhere in the end" she reassured her

Pooja smiled and hugged Mandira back, "I guess you are right, and I am just being stupid. It's good I have you to help me see things in some kind of perspective, or I would be driving myself nuts" she finished with a small laugh

"Yeah well, we all do that to ourselves now and again, and need someone to give us a quick kick on the shins to catch ourselves on" she pointed out with another chuckle

"I guess so," Pooja grinned, "But enough of my personal ramblings, we had better shift ourselves. We have a meeting with Reeti, the social worker in five minutes," she then realised as she glanced at her watch. And decided to put her own worries aside to concentrate on thinking of others, who were unfortunately less well of, than herself.

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Pooja was a little breathless as she arrived at the restaurant for her lunch with Kabir later on in the day.

"Sorry I am a bit late, the meeting with the social worker ran longer than I realised, I hope you haven't been waiting too long," she greeted him as she sat down at the table opposite him

"No worries," Kabir replied with an easy smile, "I just got here ten minutes ago myself"

He now beckoned to one of the waitress's to come over to take their order, and waiting till she had gone of with it before giving Pooja his full attention

"I had a phone call from my father this morning" he then informed her

"Oh?" Pooja looked across at him, "Is everything ok? I know you were worried about what the doctor said about his heart, when he had that medical check up last week"

"Well he has had some more tests done, and it seems the new medication seems to be working, his blood pressure has gone down a bit," Kabir replied, "But that was not really, what he wanted to talk to me about,"

Something in Kabir's tone and expression told Pooja that he was preoccupied with whatever had been said during the conversation with his father

"So what did he want?" she then asked a little warily

"He wanted to know if that we could spent year end with him, and decided to give us a few weeks ahead of the event, to make sure we got everything sorted"

"I see," Pooja replied, still not quite understanding the reluctance in Kabir's tone, "Well, I think perhaps that is a good idea, don't you?" she smiled

"It might have been, if he hadn't revealed it was my Stepmother's idea," Kabir said flatly, his brown eyes now resting on Pooja with a certain frankness as he continued,

"It seems, she thinks it would be good for the whole family to be together this year, for my father's sake. What with his health not being so good, and the fact it will be hard on him still knowing he will be thinking about the loss of Jay and his grandchildren, so she suggested to my father that he should invite us to stay a few days over year end with them"

"Well that was unusually gracious of her. But perhaps she is just getting into the spirit and genuinely cares about your father in this instance " Pooja suggested hopefully

Kabir's lips curled into a small sardonic smile, " Somehow I doubt it. She is up to something, I can feel it"

Pooja frowned, "You think so? What makes you so sure?"

"Trust me, I just know," Kabir replied, "Anyway, she has managed to manoeuvre us into a situation where it almost impossible for me to refuse," he then added in irritation, "I just manage fobbed my father of with the excuse I would have to speak with you first, before making it definite"

"But if we say no, its going to make us look selfish and uncaring," Pooja realised, "Really, I don't mind spending year end with your father, I think it would be good," She then told him

"Even when it includes having to be around Vyom and Kavya as well?" Kabir queried doubtfully, "it's not my idea of a fun time"

"I guess we could put up with it for a few days, just for your father's sake. I would be willing to do it, if it makes him happy" Pooja replied. "In fact I think we should do it, even if Suman's motives are not all they seem"

"I thought that would be your reply," Kabir smiled dryly, he now reached over to take her hand in his as he continued casually, "Which is kind of a shame, because I was planning on surprising you. I had some business to attend to in New York and planned on bringing you along with me, and thought we could send our first New year there"

"Really?" Pooja eyed him in wide eyed wonderment. New year in New York would have been quite something, she suddenly realised wistfully, "I mean, that would have been lovely also," she found herself admitting

"Yes I know, and it is still my preferred choice," Kabir replied, "We could still carry through with it. I am sure my father would understand us wanting to spend our first New Year together," he pointed out reasonably

Pooja found herself seriously taking her time to consider it, as the waitress arrived with their food. She found she was greatly tempted to agree with Kabir, and go along with him on the New York option. She imagined it would be fantastic opportunity, and who could blame her for wanting to take it?

"Perhaps he would understand," she finally replied carefully, "But I bet he would still be disappointed. And as tempting spending New Year in New York is for me, I don't think I could quite enjoy it, thinking about your father, I would feel guilty, and I think you would too" she then said

Kabir sighed, letting his fork playing around with the food on his plate, knowing she was right.

"Well I guess I can put New York off for another few weeks, and we can still go" he then reluctantly admitted

"That sounds like a plan," Pooja smiled.

"Yeah," Kabir replied with little enthusiasm, " I just hope I don't end up regretting it," he spiked a carrot with his fork with a touch of vehemence, imagining it was his stepmother's face.