Since the moment Sameer had happily accepted the invitation to the Sunday lunch, Naina's emotions has been riding a seesaw. The anticipation of receiving him in her home was laced with a great deal of anxiety. What will Maa think of him? And how will he tackle the questioning that was bound to follow?!

Calling out a quick goodbye to the receptionist, Naina hurried out of the office. A minute later she caught sight of him leaning against the car. A vendor pushing a handcart was trying to sell him something while Sameer was repeatedly shaking his hands and head. A soft chuckle escaped her as she felt sorry for the poor man who had no idea that he was addressing a foreigner.

The previous night while surfing some channels, she had come across the superhit movie 'Ek Duje Ke Liye'. Feeling a strange kinship for the leads in the movie, who struggled with Kamal Hassan's inability to speak Hindi, Naina had ended up watching the movie.

Boarding the car, they exchanged a few sentences and then Sameer turned his attention to the traffic.

Still recalling some scenes from the movie, Naina got into a playful mood. Instead of humming the lines, that she had especially enjoyed, she started reciting them aloud.

Hum bane tum bane ek duje ke liye

Hum bane tum bane ek duje ke liye

He cast her a questioning glance.

Usko kasam lage, usko kasam lage

Jo bichhad ke ik pal bhi jiye

"Sorry, what did you say??" he wore a puzzled expression.

Hum bane tum bane ek duje ke liye

Hum bane tum bane ek duje ke liye

"What are you going on about??" He asked still not able to make any sense.

Tum ho buddhu

He scowled "Very funny! Whatever else I may not understand... I definitely know that word. Mom has been calling me buddhu all my life!" She smiled and carried on.

Tum ho buddhu maan lo

You are handsome jaan lo

Tum ho buddhu maan lo

You are handsome jaan lo

He smirked "Finally, you are on the right track baby..." She poked her tongue at him and continued –

Sab baaton ko chhod ke

Aankhon ko pehchaan lo

Aankhon ne aankhon se waade yehi kiye

Usko kasam lage, usko kasam lage

Jo bichhad ke ik pal bhi jiye

Hum bane tum bane ek duje ke liye

Hum bane tum bane ek duje ke liye

Growing impatient, he huffed on the inside, What's got into her today? Well, two can play that game!

"Vale. Si eso es lo que quieres..." He shrugged his shoulders. Happy to see her confounded expressions, he continued "Tienes el pelo moreno y los ojos marrones oscuros. También, eres muy bonita."

Naina blinked at him uncomprehendingly for a few moments and then mumbled "Sameer... I can't understand a word of what you are saying!" Grinning widely, he asked "¿Lo estás pasando bien?" "Fine! Be like that. I won't ask again!" sounding perturbed, she turned to stare outside the window.

Laughing at her response, he countered "That's called tit for tat! Next time you decide to speak to me in Hindi, just remember that I will be speaking to you in Spanish!"

Spanish???! Her surprise lasted for a moment and then something twisted in her gut. He must have learnt it for that Izzy... Had he meant to propose to her in her tongue? And had he murmured endearments to her in her language?

Looking aghast Naina tried to control her quivering heart, but her feelings were betrayed by her trembling lower lip. Not making sense of her extreme reaction, Sameer frowned "Now you are just being a poor sport! Just because you have been beaten at your own game..."

Her foolish heart lamented, Will I ever come to mean to him as much as she did? Am I fighting a lost battle?

Unnerved by her silence, Sameer prompted "Naina?? What's wrong?" Reluctant to share her insecurities, she shook her head "Nothing..." He quickly dismissed her claim "Any guy with an ounce of brain knows that a girl does not mean it when she says 'nothing' like that! Why are you suddenly so upset?"

She sighed "You must have learnt it for her... I knew she meant a lot to you. But I guess I hadn't realized just how much." "Who?? What are you talking about?" he was caught off-guard.

They had almost reached their destination She asked, "Why did you lie to me?" Spotting a parking spot near the café, Sameer quickly pulled in the car and then turned to her flabbergasted "Want makes you think I have lied to you about anything?"

Naina uttered in a pained voice "You had made it sound so trivial... your relationship with Izzy... almost like it hadn't meant anything. But it had meant a lot. After all you even learnt Spanish for her."

As he joined the dots, Sameer exclaimed "Hey, I did not learn Spanish for Izzy! Or anyone else! It was my second language in school." When she mumbled "Second language??" he rushed to assure her "Yes, I studied it for five years as part of our curriculum. Though I am not fluent at it... I can get by with basic conversation."

"Oh..." she pondered on it for a bit before continuing "But, you did lie about Izzy. You told me you had just dated for a bit... It was nothing serious." Sameer struggled to recall when they had discussed Izzy but drew a blank. "When did we talk about her??" and then tried to reassure her "But it wasn't serious..."

Contrary to his expectations, she paled even more "Sameer... if the girl you brought home to your family wasn't important... a relationship of a year and half meant nothing... then how am I to believe that the short few days with me meant anything to you?"

"Who told you about Izzy?" his voice was taunt. His shock multiplied when she replied "You did. When we first met. You had recently broken up with her." I shared all details about Izzy with her?? as he wondered haplessly, she added after a pause "But I learnt the finer details from Deepika." He was annoyed "She had no right to share any of that with you! I would have told you when I was ready." Looking confused he asked, "And why did Deepu write to you about Izzy?" Naina clarified "She shared about it long back. During Rohan's wedding... when she was unaware of our history. Just as a part of some conversation. But, what more important is the facts Sameer. Did it really not mean anything to you?!"

He fiddled with the dangling car keys and nibbled on his lower lip. Then he spoke carefully "We cared for each other. Enjoyed each other's company. But we were both very clear that neither was in love with the other. Izzy always planned to return to Spain after the course was over to join her family business."

Her voice came out a mere whisper "You were with her for so long... how do you know you didn't love her?" He reached out to hold the tightly fisted hand in her lap "Naina, if I loved her, I would have followed her to Spain. I wouldn't be sitting here with you."

"Were there others before her?" her question left him shifting uncomfortably. Why does she want to dig up all the past now?! He replied nervously "There were two others... One in college, whom I dated for a about a month. We were absolutely not compatible! And before that, I had asked a girl out during the last year of school, as my date for the Prom dance. That lasted for a little over a week... maybe two weeks max."

She was about to ask their names and then not wanting to have more letters to hate quickly abandoned the idea. She thought morosely - Naina, you are the fourth girl in his life. Not even second.

Unthinkingly she muttered "They were with you before me..." He agreed "Exactly! It was the past... before you." Not still ready to let go, she accused him again "But you lied to me about Izzy."

Growing exasperated, he retorted "I can't remember what exactly I told you about Izzy back then. But I must have shared whatever I felt was relevant in that moment! I can't change whatever was said back then. And if it makes you feel better... she is already happily married now. So can't you just let it go??" Sounding defensive, he continued "You had also broken up with someone when we met. I am not subjecting you to an interrogation about your ex."

Her glistening eyes glared at him "Because there was no one before you. And you know it!" He fumbled "I mean... dating wise..." Her words wobbled too "Sameer... I have never dated anyone else." He was surprised "But you talked about an ex. I thought you had got back with him when I didn't hear from you!" She mumbled "I lied back then. I didn't want to appear too naïve" and then confessed "Sometimes I am scared of my inexperience in these matters... what if you feel disenchanted by it?"

He tugged her hand closer to his heart "Disenchanted?? My dear, I am completely bewitched by you! I am utterly convinced that my Harinakshi must have been an enchantress in a previous life."

Though fairly appeased by his declaration, Naina asked the question which had been haunting a corner of her heart "And after me? I mean... were you involved with someone else after me?" This time he answered with light heart "I promise you, there has been no one after you! Not even for a moment."

Seeing a small blossoming on her lips, and very keen to change the subject, he urged "Shall we head inside, so that you can start lecturing me about the Sunday visit." She nodded slowly and they exited the car. The next hour or so was spent with Naina covering all the dos and don'ts.

* * *

When Sunday arrived, Naina started suspecting that the occasion was being accorded much more importance by the older ladies of her household than she had expected. Malati kept on issuing a number of instructions to Rama about the menu and the serving wear. But Naina's doubts were confirmed when her mother asked her to change the sofa cushion covers which had been changed just a few days back.

She nervously recalled her conversation with Sameer when he has insisted that he intended to discuss something specific with her mother. Naina hoped that her mother would bid him a goodbye with a happy heart too after that.

At two minutes past mid-day the doorbell chimed. Rama, who was still busy rolling out the parathas, looked surprised "Who can it be at this time?!" Glancing at the clock Naina replied "It must be Sameer. I told him to come over about twelve." Rama still looked perplexed "But it's exactly twelve! Who arrives on the dot?? I still have to change!" Naina laughed softly "Maa, the British are known for their punctuality!"

Opening the door revealed a very dashing young man dressed in dark jeans and a half-sleeved maroon shirt, holding a bouquet. A haircut was overdue, and his silky locks were falling over most of his forehead. Seeing her eyes drifting towards the flowers, he smiled cheekily "These really are for your Naniji!"

As Naina ushered him inside, Sameer noted that she was dressed in light blue jeans and an orange ethnic print short kurti. Having never seen her in western wear before he had started wondering if she was averse to the idea but hadn't found the heart to bring up the topic. A small smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he appreciated the figure-hugging outfit.

Rama called out from the kitchen door "Come in Beta. I will just finish in here quickly." Naniji joined the youngsters and gestured Sameer to sit down.

Nani was surprised when he offered her the bunch of flowers. But Naina was completely astonished when he addressed her grandmother "Namaste Naniji. Health theek hai aapki?" Naniji quickly assured him that she was fit as a fiddle. When she enquired about how he was doing, Sameer replied pronouncing each word very carefully "Main theek hu. Sab acha hai."

His eyes twinkling, he addressed a shocked Naina "I have started learning Hindi from Madhav. My skills are still very rudimentary though." Following a pause, he added softly with a bashful smile "And this is definitely for you." A delicious warmth spread through her, as she mouthed a 'Thank you' at him.

After wrapping up her pending tasks and freshening up, Rama joined everyone too.

"What is the need for this beta?!" she was soon protesting as Sameer pulled out a box of imported chocolates from a plastic bag and handed them to her. He brushed away her objections "Auntie, my last visit was unplanned... but I surely couldn't arrive empty handed today. My mom will disown me if I don't remember all the etiquettes she has spent years trying to drill into me!" This earned wide smiles and approving nods from the older ladies.

Some conversation about his work and Ahmedabad stay followed. Sameer confessed "I haven't got around to doing much exploring yet. The work has been harder than I had expected. India has a rhythm of its own... very unlike the other Asian countries!" Rama tutted "That's not good beta... working is important, but at your age you should be having fun too. Surely you must have relatives here... You should keep meeting people your age." He nodded "Yes, I meet them occasionally, but I am not particularly close to them." Looking at Naina, he added "That's why Deepu suggested that I get in touch with Naina. It's been good having someone to talk to."

Rama nodded and then asked Naina to start warming the food.

Over the next few minutes Sameer watched with amusement as the older ladies issued Naina many instructions and grumbled when she apparently served the chutney in the wrong place in the plate. It seemed that her prowess in the kitchen and household affairs were not highly regarded by her mother. As she rushed around making several trips to the kitchen, an image floated in his mind of Naina in his London kitchen, trying to figure out how all the different appliances worked. The thought of them working side by side on a meal at the end of a day and then sharing it at his small dinning table was extremely appetizing.

Lunch turned out to be a lengthy affair. Every woman at the table seemed determined to feed the poor hungry boy and his plate was refilled many times! When he protested "Nahi Naniji! Bahoot kha liya!", Malati started recounting how at his age her husband would finish at least four parathas and two servings of rice.

Haplessly Sameer turned to Naina for help "You know, I can't eat so much! Please assure them I have eaten enough." She blinked nervously thinking – Why is he saying that?? Won't Maa question how would I know how much he can eat?! I told him exactly what not to say! Was he even listening the other day??

Trying to ensure that her mother does not dwell on that specific piece of intel for too long, Naina picked up the pickle container "Sameer, you have to try this lemon pickle! It's the best! It's Maa's specialty." After serving him some, she served herself a heaped spoonful.

Rama glowed at the compliment "I don't know about it being the best... but it has been Naina's favorite since childhood! When I was still working in Ahmedabad, if I had an early start and didn't get a chance to cook in the morning, she would happily just eat this with the leftover rotis before heading to college." Sameer glanced at Naina, marveling yet again, recalling that young girl who, though surrounded by very little, had become his beacon of happiness years ago. Rama rambled on sounding perplexed "But then these last few years she had absolutely stopped eating it. Said it made her feel sick." Turning to Naina she smiled "I am so happy seeing you eat it after so long today!"

Naina paled remembering why she had stopped eating the pickle. The last time she had eaten it was when her mom had made it using the lemons from Sudhagadh. She had binged on it not realizing that it had been part of her early pregnancy craving. For a moment, she couldn't bring herself to actually take a bite. But seeing him scoop some on a piece of paratha and hmmm his approval as he relished it, Naina followed suit. Her tongue joyously welcomed back the sweet, tangy taste that she had banished from her life for a while, probably as some sort of penance.

Oblivious of her thoughts, the chatter around the table continued. Malati sneakily reached out for the pickle container, but Rama immediately stopped her "Amma, the doctor has strictly forbidden you from eating these salty foods." As Malati grumbled "What is the point of living if one is not free to enjoy the simple pleasures!", Rama explained to Sameer that her mother had a heart condition and hence had to follow some dietary restrictions. Sameer and Naina's eyes immediately collided and he closed his eyes almost imperceptibly in quiet assurance.

Post lunch, once again settled in the lounge, a small bowl of mukhwas was passed around. Sameer repeatedly complimented the food and insisted that he couldn't remember the last time he had felt so full. Malati nodded happily, satisfied that they had completed their duty towards their guest!

Clearing his throat, Sameer addressed Rama in a serious tone "Auntie, I wanted to talk to you about Naniji's treatment." Rama uttered confused "Amma's treatment? What about it??" Trying to appear calmer than he felt, Sameer replied "I would like to make an appointment for Naniji to see Dr Gupte. He is a renowned cardiologist from Bombay, who visits and sees patients at the Apollo hospital for a few days every month. My business associate Dinesh knows him well and he has operated on Dinesh's mother-in-law also. If I ask Dinesh, he will definitely arrange a consultation for Naniji."

A shadow of doubt fell over Rama's face as she mumbled "Beta, Amma is already being treated by a good doctor, Dr Tyagi." Well aware that the Apollo hospital was known for excellent but expensive treatment, Sameer rushed on "Auntie, considering her illness, I don't think you should postpone the surgery. Please do not worry about the expenses... I, that is my family, have good contacts at Apollo. Nanaji was on their board and had made a very substantial donation when they were adding a new wing. Since then, our family is entitled to subsidized treatment. Nanu never got a chance to avail of it... but I can get Naniji the benefits."

Rama hold on her pallu tightened as she tersely spoke "I don't know what Naina has said to you, that makes you think we are not giving Amma the necessary treatment." Sameer objected "Auntie, she has only shared her worries. She hasn't implied anything of that sort." The older lady replied "Thank you for your offer, but we don't need any charity." Before he could respond, Naina entreated "Maa, it's not like that. Please listen to him first."

It's clear where Naina's fighting spirit comes from. Breathing deeply, he started "Auntie, it's not going to be free. You will still have to pay for the surgery and the medicines. Just the room and operation theatre charges will not apply." Noting her mother's hesitant expression, Naina pressed on "Maa, please don't say no. I want to give Nani the best we can. And Dr Gupte really is the best! Getting a consultation with him is not at all easy. Let's not lose this opportunity. If something were to happen to her, I will never forgive myself knowing that we could have done more."

The discussion went on for some time. Finally, understanding that Naina was not likely to budge, Rama gave into the pressure from the youngsters. It was decided that Sameer would initiate the process and then get back to them.

A little later, when he stood up to take their leave, Naina accompanied him downstairs.

Standing near the car, she smiled at him "Thank you! I still can't believe that Maa agreed." He teased back "Do you still have any doubts about how charming I can be??" Naina's cheeks borrowed some colour from the magenta bougainvillea covering the fence in the background, "Oh... so after casting your spell on me... it's Maa's turn now."

Sameer's heart fluttered at the sight of his blushing babe. His voice sounded drugged "Naina, do you have any idea how much I love" Though he did not pause, Naina felt like time stood still. It felt like a kodak moment, to be recorded and treasured for a lifetime. Her mind made a quick note of; a neighbor hailing a rickshaw across the street, a few kids squabbling over who's turn it was to play the cop, and a dog that was chasing its own tail by the side of the road. He continued "to see you blushing?! I can never tire of looking at you like this..."

She blushed even more, mentally chiding herself. Naina, did you really think he would declare his love standing in the middle of a street?! Don't you know how big he is on romantic gestures? I am sure, whenever he says it... there will be roses and most probably a candle-lit dinner!

"What are you thinking??" he probed seeing her peculiar expressions. Naina brushed it away "Nothing... When will I see you again?" They spoke for a few minutes more before she waved him a goodbye and then headed upstairs.

Unknown to Naina, her mother, who had come into the balcony to hang some cleaning rags to dry, had watched most of her interaction with Sameer. Though Rama couldn't hear their conversation, she was surprised by the easy familiarity between them. Sameer's revelation that Naina had shared her worries with him had left her confounded. When and how has Naina grown so friendly with him? She was further unnerved by the bashful look on her daughter's face. It was a look she had never seen before. A little dry mouthed Rama wondered if Naina's feelings for him were more than just friendly.

* * *

The next night when Naina answered the phone about nine, Naina called out to Rama who was looking at her questioningly "It's Sameer. He is calling about the doctors appointment."

Naina scribbled something on the pad next to the phone as they talked. On ending the call, she updated her mother "Maa, Dr Gupte is coming to Ahmedabad next week. We have been asked to bring in Nani's files to show Dr Kamath who assists with the pre and post-op care. Here's the list." When Rama asked, "What time do we have to go?" Naina shook her head "Maa, I will go to the hospital after work. Sameer said he will try to meet me there. Tomorrow we just have to submit the files. You can join when they ask to bring in Nani."

From there on things progressed very quickly. A check-up with Dr Kamath was followed by some additional tests. When Dr Gupte arrived, owing to his friendship to with Dinesh, he agreed to squeeze in Malati's surgery that very week. The Garg-Agarwal household was in a frenzy, getting everything organized.

Sameer sent his car and driver the day Nani was to be admitted to the hospital. During the surgery, he sat in the waiting room with Naina, Rama, and their neighbors Vimla and Vikas. When the doctors shared the news that the surgery had been successful, Naina had to exercise a lot of control to refrain from hugging him in relief and had to make do with an awkward handshake and a squeaky sounding "Thank you!"

The week following the surgery, Rama and Naina fell into a routine with Naina spending the day in the hospital and then Rama coming over in the evenings and staying through the night. Often when Rama arrived, she would find Sameer visiting. Though she was very grateful to him for all his assistance, a slight unease gripped her heart. The way Naina showed him every report and discussed the smallest of details mentioned by the doctors was not lost on Rama. Sometimes as she observed the youngsters conversing in hushed tones in the corridor, Rama would wonder - Just what do they have so much to talk about?!

One evening when Sameer arrived, he found Naina hunched over Nani, coaxing her to eat a few more pieces of apple. She looked tired. Her hair had started escaping from her pony and her pale yellow shalwar kameez was extremely crumpled. There seemed to be a tea stain on her dupatta. And yet, as he watched her feed Naniji and fluff her pillows, Sameer felt like he hadn't seen a more beautiful woman before. In that moment, he knew with extremely clarity that forty-fifty years in the future, if he was ever in a hospital bed, he wanted her fussing over him.

After ensuring that her grandmother was comfortable, she approached Sameer "Sorry... she has been a little unsettled today. Her BP was fluctuating earlier. Just wanted to settle her down for a nap. The junior doctor will come by for his rounds in another hour."

He impulsively reached out to tuck a strand of her hair behind her ear, and unthinkingly the words slipped out "I love you."

It wasn't clear who was surprised most! Naina stood gaping at him for a moment, wondering if she had heard right – He is proposing?? Here and now?! She then quickly cast a glance in Nani's direction to ascertain that the old lady was asleep. Meanwhile Sameer looked around thinking – Great going mate! She is definitely going to question your sanity! Hospital room... with Naniji lying few feet away... Really??? You think this is the place to confess your love for her?! He spoke very flustered "Sorry... I didn't mean it... I mean, I meant it. Just that... I didn't mean to say it here... like this."

Finding the bundle of nerves in front of her endearing, Naina reached out to gently caress his arm and smiled shyly. Her heartbeat raced as she tried to come up with a reply. But as Sameer gazed at her expectantly, Naina, who was proficient at talking to a new audience for hours at a time, struggled to say three short words. Forget the three magical words... she couldn't even manage a simple 'Me too'!

The moment was broken when they heard a shuffle at the door and her colleague-cum-friend Madhu peeked in. Naina quickly moved away to greet her. Noting that Nani was asleep, Madhu spoke in hushed tones "How is she feeling now? You sounded so worried on the phone earlier that I just had to come by." Naina assured her that Nani was doing much better and was resting.

As quick introductions were carried out, Madhu examined Sameer – Oh... so this is Sameer... the handsome guy Leena was gossiping about. Sameer smirked thinking – So, this is the Madhu I have to pretend to be every night!

Some casual chit-chat ensued for a bit, till Rama arrived. Suddenly Naina's heartbeats accelerated yet again, but for a very different reason! Knowing her mother, she knew Rama would soon start subtly grilling Madhu about all their supposed late-night calls and Sunday shopping expeditions.

In line with Naina's expectations, Rama remarked "Madhu, it is so good to meet you! It's been such a long time... I have been asking Naina to invite you over."

As soon as some pleasantries were exchanged, Naina exclaimed looking at the clock "Madhu, Sameer has to leave soon to meet someone! He will drop you." As her friend started objecting, Naina addressed Sameer "It's hard to find a rickshaw willing to go towards her area. Can you please make sure she gets home safely? If you leave now, there will be still enough time."

It was only after that Sameer and Madhu bid them a goodbye that Naina let out the breath she was holding!

* * *

The day Malati was discharged from the hospital Sameer drove them back to Khed. Once the patient had been settled in her room, the other three sat sipping on some coffee in the lounge.

Rama observed her daughter discuss Nani's medicines, signs to watch out for, and the next appointment with him. It was crystal clear that Naina had started relying on him a great deal for advice and support. Rama wondered if her daughter was looking to him to fill in the void of a man in their household or was hoping that he would become her man? Either way, she could understand Naina's state of mind. But what was he after?

Later when he called back to report that he had reached home fine, Rama overheard Naina enquiring what he had eaten for dinner and then telling him to avoid the water from the well when he visited some supplier the next day. The palpitations of her heart increased as she thought that Naina's tone sounded very much like it often did when she was allegedly on calls with Madhu. Rama stood at the kitchen door wrestling with indecision.

The next night while watching TV, Rama suddenly lowered the volume and addressed Naina tentatively "Naina, I know your young shoulders have been carrying many responsibilities. And I am sure sometimes you must be wanting to share the load." A small pause later she added "Sameer has been very helpful with Amma's illness."

Pleased to hear her mother praising him, Naina rushed to agree "Yes Maa! He has been so supportive. Even though I told him that he need not visit every day, he made it a point to come over every evening. And he took care of most of the discharge related formalities too! In fact, some of the hospital staff thought he is part of our family."

Rama was only too aware of the last part as couple of the nurses had remarked things like – You are very lucky to have such a caring son, or, That young man... is he your son-in-law? They look so good together. Even Vimla had been intrigued by this new friend of Naina's and shared her input – Naina's uncle was saying that the boy is good. They spoke a lot that day, while in the waiting room... during the surgery. But still be careful.

"Yes, he has been very helpful." Rama conceded but then carried on "Naina, you must have been about six. It was the second Diwali after your Nanaji passed away. I had just started my job at the school, and I think you were grownup enough to get quite excited about Diwali that year. Seeing your enthusiasm, Amma and I felt that we should celebrate the festival properly. We decided to make the different festive sweets and snacks. Amma asked me to buy us all some new clothes."

Naina wasn't sure why her mother was suddenly reminiscing about that Diwali, but nonetheless listened with interest. "That corner shop, from where we get our groceries and everyday household use items... that time, Sunil's father Lalaji used to run it. He was only too happy to extend our credit beyond the usual amount. I think I got a little carried away too. I got myself a new handbag for work and few toys for you plus a few things for the house. Nothing big... but some buckets and new set of those melamine quarter plates."

After a few moments of silence Rama continued "Diwali was good. You were over the moon with your new toys... and I showed off the plates to whoever visited us during the holiday season. But then I realized the real price of those few days of laughter." An eerie shiver passed through Naina, as her mother went on "Lalaji started dropping by to check on us or just because he was visiting someone in the building... And he would conveniently come by when Amma wasn't around. I lived in constant dread till I received my salary the next month and paid off all our debt. After that I did not buy anything from his shop for years... till he died. And I never spent money that we didn't have. But what I really learnt was nobody does anything without any ulterior motive."

When Rama stopped talking, Naina leaned on her mother's shoulder, moving closer, and muttered "Maa, I am so sorry you had to deal with that creep. Good thing he is already dead, else he would have had to deal with me!" Rama smiled sadly at her daughter "Beta, he was not the first and he will not be the last. But we woman have to be careful; do you understand?" As she nodded, Naina asked "Why are you sharing this today?" The older woman responded in a pained voice "Naina, you are a grown woman now. Ask yourself, why is Sameer helping you so much. There are no freebies beta. So, what does he want?"

Naina wanted to retort – Because he loves me! But she wasn't sure if this claim would alleviate or instead increase Rama's fears. And so, she muttered "He isn't like that Maa. He is just being a good friend. Don't question his motives." Giving her mother another quick hug, Naina retired for the night.

* * *

The following few days buzzed by. Naina was assigned more tours to make up for the time off taken for the surgery. It being the summer holiday season, there was always a resource crunch as the employees with families preferred to take time off during one of the peak tourist seasons.

Naina's eyes flickered to her watch yet again as she silently entreated Asmita ma'am to wrap up the end of day meeting which had dragged on for almost thirty minutes longer than expected. Once released from her boss's den, she rushed through the end of day tasks at her desk at express speed, as Madhu cast inquisitive glances in her direction. Meeting Sameer in the hospital had piqued her curiosity and Naina's ill-masked efforts at evading questions about him had not helped either!

Sameer sat in the car in a grumpy mood. The dull headache from the afternoon had steadily grown. The week has been fraught with many challenges on the work front. The sample shipment to be sent to the clients in UK had not met his expectations. Unplanned trips had been made to couple of suppliers and many words and few threats of taking his business elsewhere had been exchanged.

Also, it definitely hadn't helped that Naina had not reciprocated his sentiments! Sameer had spent the days following his declaration of love besieged by apprehensions. He understood that the timing of his confession and the setting been completely off, but her prolonged silence on the subject had left him very anxious. What does it mean? She is so let down by the time and place? Of course, she must have hoped for some romantic gestures. No doubt it had caught her unawares but so was I! Why is she finding it so hard to voice the love that peaks from her eyes all the time? What is holding her back? His unease grew – She is still obsessing over Izzy? Oh shit! Why did Deepu have to share so many details?!

So, had it not been for the work induced headache, it would have been a great relief when Naina called him earlier in the day insisting that she wanted to meet him that evening. But today her timing had seemed off! Sameer had tried to suggest that they meet the next day but had reluctantly given in when she had stated that the catch-up proposed for that evening was non-negotiable.

Drumming the fingers of his one hands impatiently on the steering wheel, Sameer pressed his temples with the other. He wished he had grabbed some medication before leaving the office. And did Madhav send the faxes to the UK clients about the delayed samples? I should talk to Rohan tonight... and tell him to handle their expectations...

Tap-tap... tap-tap... the tapping on the passenger side window pulled him out of his thoughts. Naina stood by the sidewalk peering inside.

Leaning across, he unlocked the door and pushed it open. She smiled sweetly as she slid into the passenger seat "Where are you lost today?? I was waving from a distance." He muttered distractedly "Just some work issue." and then added scowling "I have been waiting here for more than twenty minutes! If you were caught up at work too, we could have met tomorrow." Naina replied apologetically "The meeting with Asmita ma'am ran over. Sorry..." He hummed wordlessly and started the car.

Naina fidgeted with her purse strap waiting for him to speak. His eyes had not sparkled seeing her today as they usually did. She felt some of her previous excitement slipping away, some of it nervous and some hopeful - which she had garnered bit by bit these last few days.

She sneaked some glances at him. He looks tired... "Are you okay? Did you eat properly today?" Honking at the man slowly pushing a handcart almost in the middle of the road, he muttered "I had a sandwich... well more like half of it. I suppose that explains the headache."

"You have a headache?! Why didn't you say so? And why did you skip lunch? Half a sandwich... why didn't you eat the whole thing at least??" her questions flowed non-stop.

As soon as they settled in a restaurant, Naina ordered a Pav Bhaji and Milkshake for him and then fished out a headache pill from her purse. Sameer thanked her and asked "How is Naniji recovering? And when is Auntie going back to work?" Naina answered his questions and then prattled on about the week at work. Sameer half-listened as he waited for the pounding in his head to subside.

"So, what do you think?" her question left him fumbling "Yeah... I mean... Sorry... what were you saying?" As she stared at him incredulously, Sameer excused himself from the table "Naina, I need to make a call. I hope Madhav hasn't forgotten to send some important faxes... let me remind him." Naina frowned at his retreating back – Who is the personal assistant here? Madhav or Sameer??

Feeling a little let down, Naina nodded and awaited his return while flicking away the imaginary creases in her new baby-pink shalwar kameez. He hasn't even noticed that I am wearing the perfume gifted by him... And I smuggled it to work to avoid an interrogation from Maa!

She plastered on a smile as soon as he returned "Everything ok?" He grumbled "Madhav has already left for the day. Aarti didn't know if he sent the faxes." Naina tried to assure him that Madhav must have taken care of the work, but he continued to be distracted. After few minutes of valiant effort, Naina gave up any attempt at conversation too and silently sipped on her cold coffee.

But she couldn't stay quiet for very long and addressed him grumpily "Sameer, why are you here if you don't want to talk to me? You shouldn't have agreed to meet if you were going to be like this!" He countered "I tried telling you that today isn't good for me. But you refused to listen!" The sting of his rejoinder reflected in her suddenly glistening eyes, Naina muttered in a small voice "Let me know when you want to leave."

As they exited the venue few minutes later, he said in a softer tone "Naina, it's going to be a huge problem if the samples don't reach in time or do not meet the client's approval. I am worried..." She nodded without meeting his eyes "You can go back to the office. I will take a rickshaw and then the bus back today." He sighed, ushering her in the direction of the car, "Don't be silly. I will drive you back. My headache is getting better too." Not wanting to prolong the awkwardness, she insisted "No, just drop me at the bus station."

Suddenly realizing something as he parked near the bus stop, Sameer asked "Did you want to meet today to discuss something specific??" She almost shook her head in negation, but then decided against it. Afterall, she had insisted on this rendezvous for a reason. Pulling out a pink envelope from her purse, Naina held it out. A confounded Sameer opened the envelope and pulled out a card.

It had the outline of a girl talking on a phone and little hearts of many shades of pink surrounding her. The line at the bottom said – I just called to say... His heart thudded loudly in his ribcage as Sameer flipped the card open. The reminder of the message continued inside – I love you.

All his previous irritation, the clients in UK, restlessness of the past few days, everything was forgotten in an instant.

Widely beaming, with joy-filled eyes, he exclaimed "Naina! Why did you wait till now? You should have handed me this card the moment we met today!" The warmth emitting from him left her cheeks flushed. Naina replied feigning anger "Did you see your grumpy face all evening? Why would I want to make a big romantic gesture to a guy who obviously didn't want to be here with me?!"

Feeling contrite, he smiled sheepishly "Sorry... I have been very thoughtless today! In fact, I'm surprised you didn't shred this into pieces! Naina, I have been desperately waiting for your reply since that day in the hospital. But it feels like I don't deserve this... not today." Her smile wobbled precariously for a moment before she replied "I wanted it to be today. Especially today." Noting his baffled expression, Naina elaborated "It's the 22nd of May today. It was exactly five years ago that we parted ways. And that too with no inkling of what was happening."

Sameer silently mouthed the f-word and then rushed "Naina, I am so sorry! The dates completely slipped my mind. I..." She cut him short "It's okay... I can understand. Just because I have kept track of the dates all these years..." A lone tear trickled down her cheek "Sameer... I have dreaded this day... no, in fact detested it! I just wanted to overwrite the memory of that parting with a much happier one. That's why, I really wanted to meet you today and..." her eyes drifted to the card in his hands.

He clasped her hand firmly "Naina, I love you. And I promise you, there will be no partings now." And then he chuckled nervously "That is, of course, if you will have me."

Have him?? What does he mean by have him? Maybe it was just a matter of timing, for she had spent a lot of time dwelling on events of the past just the night before, but some moments from their one night of love and passion flashed in her mind. He wants me to have him... Or he wants to have me? Her heart raced at the memories and yet trembled recalling the consequences.

"We can't do that... it isn't right." her voice quivered. "But why??" he sounded uncertain. Then glancing around he continued "Sorry... I seem to have a penchant for wrong timing and places... I shouldn't have asked here. I just realized this is so not the right place for it!" Right place for it? How could he imagine doing it here for even a second??! "Not just here! It wouldn't be right anywhere!" she exclaimed more than a little shocked.

He was confounded by her reply. Wondering if she wanted him to do things the old-fashioned way, he asked "Did you want me to first ask for Auntie's permission?" "Maa's permission? What?! How can you even think of something like this?" she uttered, sounding all high and squeaky. Unnerved by her response, he frowned "Do you think she won't accept me? I thought she had started warming up to me. That day when I drove you all home after Naniji was discharged, Auntie was so sweet to me..."

"And the next night she cautioned me against you!" Naina blurted. Taken aback, he questioned "But why and about what?" Blushing a little, she muttered "Maa implied that you might have some ulterior motive behind all the help. Some unsavory intentions!" "Unsavory intentions?? Naina, my intentions are completely honorable! But now I am not sure who am I expected to declare to them first? You or your Maa?!"

Finally, it dawned on her that it seemed like they were talking about two very different things! Is he... not willing to take another wild guess, she demanded "Sameer, what exactly are you proposing?" He looked at her quizzically "Naina, just how many types of proposals are there between a man and woman?! Obviously, I am talking about marriage... what else?"

Her heart danced to a jubilant beat. Though very much hoped for, it was not a milestone she had expected him to reach so soon!

Then a gloomy doubt cast its shadow. Taking a moment to collect her thoughts, Naina "Sameer, you don't have to rush into this... not to just placate my anxieties of the past. I am happy with the pace of how things are progressing now."

"Well, I am not!" he quipped. Seeing her befuddled expression, he went on "Naina, it's been great spending time with you... chatting and getting to learn each other's various likes and dislikes... but it doesn't feel enough. We haven't spent any time alone together!"

"But we always meet alone... apart from those few times in the hospital..." she sounded a little uncertain.

Does she really not understand what I mean by alone together?? Still?! Sameer sat staring at her in astonishment, which over the next few moments turned to amusement. And I thought, I took her innocence!

He abruptly turned to start the car "Let's go home." And the added emphasizing "I mean my place." He shrugged off her numerous objections during the drive, insisting that she would understand once they reached home.

As Champa opened the door with a warm smile, Naina watched in surprise a squealing Munni rushing forth to cling to Sameer's leg. Noting how unfazed he appeared by this reception and just fished out a lollipop for the child from his bag, she rightly deduced that this was now a well-established routine.

Satisfied with her treat, Munni dashed inside and on her return presented Sameer and Naina with all the art she had produced during the day. She was clearly making the most of all the art supplies Sameer had got for her. After spending a satisfactory amount of time praising Munni's latest masterpieces, Sameer pulled up Naina from the sofa. "Let's go upstairs." he started and then added, answering her questioning eyes, "to my bedroom."

Naina ascended the stairs with a wildly fluttering heart. Since he had suddenly insisted on bringing her home, she had been playing his earlier words in her mind. Where had that complaint come from? What had he really meant about them not being alone together?? And why is he taking me to his bedroom?? Oh dear Lord... straight to the bedroom after the proposal? Naina, don't take another step! And yet she once again followed him, pulled by the invisible but tenacious chains of love that he had bound her with. And did I even say yes? He didn't even wait for my answer!

Sameer picked up his pace as he approached his bedroom. Naina tried to keep up with him, her eyes quickly taking in the surroundings. They passed two other rooms, one locked and one with a slightly ajar door before he entered the third room. Flipping on the light switch, he gestured her to enter "Come, make yourself comfortable."

She hesitantly stood on the threshold, observing his room. It was airy and spacious, with a very minimalist décor. Apart from the large bed and a couple of closets lining one wall, a small study table and chair were placed at the other end. The walls were painted in ivory and an ornate ceiling fan hung above the bed. Suddenly feeling wary of the bed, Naina settled on the chair by the study table.

Sameer headed to one of the closets and started rummaging for something. On finding what he was after, he looked at her, frowning slightly "Why are you sitting there? Come here." As she started "I am okay here..." he briskly approached and pulled her towards the bed "Sit next to me."

"Sameer... why are we here?" her voice trembled a little. His eyes lovingly caressing her face, he replied softly "Because the car wasn't the right place... and I wasn't really prepared." His eyes drifted to something that his hand was fisted around.

He feels ready now! In his bedroom! And with something small in his hand!! Even her thoughts sounded high and squeaky.

Pulling her right hand forward, Sameer handed her a small, dark-blue velvet pouch "I wanted to give you something to accompany my proposal. Usually, a ring would have been more appropriate but then thinking that you might want to reserve it for the formal occasion with the families, this felt right." Naina, what's wrong with you?!! He is talking of proposals and engagements... and you are stuck on the bedroom!

Baffled by her inaction, Sameer opened the pouch and drew out a gold chain which had a heart shaped locket, covered in an intricate design, dangling from it. "It's beautiful! But why? You shouldn't have..." Naina finally managed to find her voice. He responded in a teasing tone "Because it's not every day that I ask a girl to marry me. I wanted to mark this occasion. But of course, that is if you accept me! Naina, you haven't said yes yet..."

"Yes... a thousand times yes!" her bright eyes were overflowing with emotions.

"Open it." He gestured at the locket. As she fiddled trying to pry the locket open, he went on "Naina, this is a token of my feelings." When the locket flipped open, Naina found a small photo of her from their first trip to Sudhagadh placed inside. Sameer chuckled, coloring a little, "At the risk of sounding like a sappy lovesick puppy... it resembles my heart... and inside is the photo of the girl I have carried in my heart for so long."

Wordlessly, she unfastened the chain and handed it to him. When Sameer put it around her neck, Naina moved closer to him and he gathered her in his arms. Pressing his lips against her temples, he asked, "You are happy, right?" All the clouds of doubts and fears cleared, and pure joy illuminated her heart "More than I had ever dreamt of!" "And now this day will only bring happy memories to your mind??" he tilted her face up. Naina nodded, her complete agreement clearly portrayed in her sparkling smile.

The look in his eyes turned smoldering as he lightly brushed his one thumb against her lower lip. Her face heated up, breathing became shallow and lips parted. The restlessness of months coursing through his veins sought to be quenched. Bending lower, Sameer claimed her lips. As the pounding of their hearts increased, the kiss grew deeper and more frantic.

The golden heart hanging between them pulsated with the longings of their hearts. And the mattress below dipped as their weight shifted. Seconds ticked away, tongues tangled and probed, fingers flew over each other, sometimes caressing and sometimes clutching.

When they breathlessly broke the long kiss, Sameer smirked "Do you realize that this is our first kiss where we're not drunk..." Still trying to catch her breath, Naina retorted "Not we, only you were drunk!" He teased right back "Oh... so you take full responsibility for your actions?" Avoiding his question, she sat up and looked in the direction of the door "Sameer, Munni or Champa might come upstairs..."

Trying to pull her back to him, he smirked "Are you asking me to lock the door?" Flustered by his words, she swatted his hand away and, moving away, adjusted her dupatta. Glancing at the clock, she exclaimed "Sameer, it's getting late! I have to go. Maa will start her cross-examination the moment I enter the house."

Letting out a frustrated groan, he flopped back on the bed for a moment and then stood up, muttering a very reluctant "Let's go..."

* * *

(Hi Dearies,

I had hoped to share this chapter couple of weeks back in time for Valentines. But had to rewrite a lot of it after my laptop crashed. I am not sure if I was able to rewrite it with the same flow as before, but I hope you enjoyed it.

I want to thank @AngelineDsouza_7 for her song suggestion 'Hum bane tum bane ek duje ke liye'. It really did seem to fit our Samaina in this story. Hey, I hope you liked how I have used it in this chapter. A big thanks to my very sweet and smart editor for the idea for the locket with Naina's photo inside.

And thank you all for your patience and understanding while I took some time to regroup my thoughts and feelings.

Eagerly waiting to hear all your feedback soon!

Lots of love, May)