Bound by Hostility

BOUND BY HOSTILITY

Authored by Michelle Vinayak

Published by Web Fusion at Smashwords

804, Raheja Centre, Nariman Point, Mumbai - 400 021, India. http://www.webfusionpublishing.com

Copyright reserved. This includes the right to reproduce this book or portions thereof in any form whatsoever, without the written permission of the publishers.

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About the Author

Michelle Vinayak, born in Mumbai, a city very close to her heart, now lives in Singapore with her banker husband and two adorable sons. She's a die hard romantic and loves an emotional and passionate romantic book/movie any day. Her own love story with her husband, four years before marriage, had all the ups and down of a romantic movie. Their contrasting natures has only cemented their bond and the romance still continues after so many blissful years of marriage.

Amongst all the gifts received from her husband, the most cherished one, (at times, he jokingly calls the other man ) is her laptop where she pours all her ideas and thoughts, resulting in the birth of the book Bound By Hostility which is based completely on her imagination and has no connection to her own story.

Besides writing, she loves cooking and also travelling around the world. A good Sudoku or Kakuro challenge is her best form of relaxation.

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Acknowledgements

- To my husband Sanjay without your love and your faith in me this wouldn't have been possible.

- To my babies, Shaynan and Eshaan, your love, kisses and keeness in my work, make my world so bright.

- To my parents this is in answer to all your love, prayers and blessings.

- And to my lovely brothers, in laws and my closest friends, I need not take names for you know you'll find yourself here. Thanks for your constant encouragement.

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Disclaimer

This is a work of fiction & any use of names, characters, places or events are either from the author's imagination or used as fiction & any resemblance to actual people, living or dead, business, establishments, events etc are totally acts of coincidence.

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Chapter 1: Enemy knows...

The evil smiling face flashing persistently in front of her eyes had Dr. Trishika angrily changing gears and stomping on the brake as she maneuvered her way through the busy streets of Mumbai. Screeching to an angry halt in the driveway, she stormed into the house. The television was blasting at full volume. Her heels clicking angrily against the marble floor, she marched ahead, going past the main staircase, sashaying two steps down to the large living room, turning right to enter the adjoining television lounge.

Trishika's near-explosive fury escalated at the sight of her husband Dr. Aditya Khanna. With his hands cradling his head, his lithe and supple body clad in a sleeveless vest and black suit pants, he was sprawled on the recliner like a lazy big cat. He'd been watching the news on the big projector screen with keen interest. The takeover news of the Hopewell Chain of Hospitals by the KK Group of Industries with Dr. Aditya Khanna as CEO was being aired on all financial news channels.

Why didn't you tell me about this takeover? she demanded, standing akimbo in front of him, blocking his view.

His gaze calmly roved over the five-feet-one-inch, petite, beautiful woman, dressed in a strappy, blue kurti and magenta churidar, with a magenta dupatta on her neck, the colour bringing a glow to her fair skin. Her gorgeous face was flushed with anger; her beautiful doe eyes had gone many shades darker, burning like live hot coals, threatening to raze him to ashes. He has always found her very attractive and right now she looked so hot he could feel an arousal burning inside him.

Will you answer me? she hollered, bringing him out of his musing.

A wicked smile curving his lips, he ignored her and directed the remote towards the television screen. Dr. Aditya Khanna, she roared aloud, peeved by his casual disregard of her. Before she could utter another word, her own voice boomed from behind, sending her into a freeze.

I'll see to it that Dr. Aditya Khanna pays heavily. If I have my way, I'll do anything to ruin him completely. She gasped. Her voice and her very own words. Nervously, she glanced at her husband. He was smiling. Gosh, the same evil smile she'd seen this evening at the press conference when their gazes collided across the room. That sinister smile had been plaguing her senses ever since the conference. She couldn't fathom her spine tingling when she'd seen it then. The smile was heralding her defeat, she knew now.

Goosebumps prickling her skin, she slowly turned towards the screen and was horrified to see video clippings of Nikhil and her making plans to destroy Aditya. A click of the forward key showed her rummaging through his office drawers along with Nikhil; the next clipping showed her in a café with Nikhil's hand over hers. With every click of the remote control, she was appalled at the collection he had of her doings in the past two months. Her hands felt clammy, her legs went numb.

Aditya rose from his seat, standing tall at his six-feet-one-inch height. Lazily, he moved his lean, well-chiseled muscular body towards his wife till he was close behind her. He ran his palms seductively down her bare arms till his searching fingers slid in between hers. Balling them close, he deliberately crushed them under his fists. Taking them in front, he cross- wrapped their hands firmly around her waist. Digging his chin into her shoulder blade, he blew warm breath against her neck. Here come my last moments, Trish acknowledged to herself, squeezing her eyes shut.

Hey, wifey, he whispered, his lips tantalisingly soft as they brushed against her ear. Do you remember what ACP Rao said today at the presentation? He said someone close to me had to be helping Nikhil. In spite of his tone being very low, there was a fierce beastliness in it, she cringed.

And, do you remember what I'd said to him? I said if I ever found that person, he'd definitely get to know. Wasn't he vehement that person would also join Nikhil in prison? The frightening reminder sent a shiver through Trish. Don't you think this evidence is enough to send Nikhil's abettor to prison? He tilted his head sideways, looking down into her face, flashing another evil smile. She turned her face away.

When I'd walked into you and Nikhil in my office yesterday, do you know I'd deliberately led you to believe that I had some papers of Nikhil? I'd left a video recorder hidden there expecting you both to rummage through my drawer and that's what you guys did. Her heart sank. How could she have underestimated the man when she knew he didn't possess an iota of goodness? If he ever did any good, there had to be some hidden agenda behind it.

How could you! she hissed, gritting her teeth.

Oh I could, he replied calmly. If there's a potential danger to me, to my reputation and to my life, I've every right to keep a watch on the person I suspect. Besides, sweetheart, doesn't it sound funny when a criminal, found guilty with evidence, accuses the victim of crime? A vicious grin spread on his handsome face.

When did you come to know about us? she asked softly. He didn't reply. Instead, he turned her around, his arms crushing her. She clenched her fists tightly by her sides. He's doing it deliberately and she's determined not to let him know it's affecting her.

When do you think? he countered. She kept mum. You thought you had me from the very beginning, right sweetheart? He tweaked her nose and smiled. Her stomach churned at the outpouring of smiles from a man who rarely smiled; his smiles were vile and wicked. He studied her closely for a few moments; his expressions guarded. Then he released his grip on her. Digging his hands into the pockets of his trousers, he continued to eye her with certain hardness in his chocolate-brown eyes.

I was baffled by your overnight sweetening up to me, so kept a close watch on you and found your connection to lover boy Nikhil Trivedi. Anger flickered in his eyes. Also, your desperation for revenge against me. He gave a short guttural laugh. Your sweetness would've fooled anyone else into believing you'd fallen in love with me, but sweetheart, he put his thumb under her chin and nudged her face up, I love these beautiful eyes of yours. They're not only gorgeous but transparent too, especially when they flash with hatred for me, no matter how hard you try to hide it. His lips quirked sardonically. She lowered her gaze, refusing to look at him. I'd let you think you had me ensnared in your trap and while you were setting the stage to ruin me today, I had your good friend Nikhil arrested. Now, isn't that an awesome googly? Thumb and forefinger under her chin, he pushed her face up once again, saw the indignation in her eyes and grinned. "Oh come on now, it isn't such a big loss; see what you've gained today.

On our one month wedding anniversary, you're the wife of the CEO of Hopewell Chain of Hospitals, he gloated. Cheer up."

Trish scowled at him; her eyes, piercing daggers. Dark narrowing of his eyes told her it displeased him. After all this, you're still upset I didn't tell you about the takeover? He growled with quiet anger, his finger digging painfully into her chin. What did you want me to do, Trishika? Foolishly give you a chance to ruin me? You really thought me to be a fool? Now, do you realise how much I allowed you to play around? Calm and calculating was his smile as he slowly released the pressure of his fingers from her chin. Nikhil's right. You're very dangerous. She spat, still smarting from the pain his fingers injected into her chin.

He looked at her with disbelief, then threw his head back and gave a mirthless laugh. Dangerous eh? he sneered. And yet he'd sent the woman he claimed to love to this dangerous person. Great lover boy you have there, sweetheart.

Nikhil's innocent, she told him defiantly. You doctored those evidences against him. Poor guy has lost everything only because of you. You did all that illegal stuff and dumped the blame on him.

Hmm, his lower lip protruded out as he shook his head mockingly, and still, he threw you into my den, giving this dangerous man special rights over you with marriage, including physical. He then cocked his head to one side. Something struck in his head, a broad grin spread on his face. Oh yes, yes, how can I forget? You guys did think about it. What was it? His brows furrowed together as if trying to jolt his memory. Ah yes, astrologer's advice. No consummation of marriage for the first three months at least. This time his laugh was full of mirth. You really think a doctor like me believes in that kind of stuff, sweetheart? She flashed hatred-filled eyes at him.

He gripped her by the shoulders and pulled her closer towards him, his warm breath fanning her face.

You're a very attractive woman, Trishika, and you're my wife. You've entered into this marriage on your own free will. Neither I nor anyone forced you. Nothing could have stopped me from having you. The flash of intense desire in his eyes sent a chilling fear into her. Nothing, he confirmed as he continued to look deeply into her eyes, his fingertips sensuously brushing her cheek. Her senses stirring, her chest heaved from the violent pounding of her heart, she gulped uncomfortably.

Deny as much as you or I want but there's a strong attraction between you and me. I can see it in your eyes, every time I come close to you. I can feel it burn in my whole body, every time you come close to me. He ran his thumb seductively over her quivering lips. This is how your lips quiver every time we're this close. I can hear the thumping of your heart, just as you can hear mine. Just one touch and we could explode together.

Stop! she screamed her protest, her hands covering her ears. The diabolic grin on his face made him look like the Devil incarnate.

Think about it, babes. We've been married for a month. You've been living under the same roof as me, all alone and open, yet you've been safe from the amorous desires of this dangerous man. You see, I never mix business with pleasure and sex always complicate matters, even more so, when on a special mission. He winked. Consider yourself very lucky wifey, to be thrown in front of a hungry lion and have not a claw on you. He released his hold on her, his eyes not leaving her face.

What do you plan to do with me now? she muttered softly under her breath. He tossed an expressionless glance at her.

With you? Nothing, he shrugged. Life will go on as usual. We're still husband and wife in front of the media and we'll stay that way.

And if I refuse?

Then you'll soon be enjoying the comforts of a prison on the basis of these evidences. After all the lovely praises I'd showered on my wife today in front of the press, if I come to know my wife actually has an ulterior motive against me, can you imagine how shattered and broken that'll make me? Sniffing dramatically, he put on a fake weepy look. The same media, your friends and the people gathered today will have profound sympathy towards me and you? he eyed her with scorn. Don't know what they'll say about a girl who'd used her pretty looks to seduce a man into marrying her and played around with his feelings. Trish shuddered at his cunning manipulation of truth.

Why do you want to still continue with this marriage? she asked. How will it help you staying married to a woman whom you don't love, who doesn't love you?

Well, I've lived with it for the past one month. Didn't I? he shrugged wryly. Don't I deserve a small right to inflict some punishment on my wife, who would've ruined me completely? There was loathing in his eyes. Shifting uncomfortably, Trish stared blankly at him.

Well, there are a few reasons. First, I don't think Nikhil's game is over. Sooner or later, he'll be out on bail and he'll definitely need you to get back at me. I want to see what his next step is. Second, we've just had this takeover of the hospital and the media will want to get hold of anything and everything about us at the moment. I don't want the truth of our marriage to be ever brought out in the open. In front of the media, we'll put up with the charade of a young, happily-in-love couple as portrayed by them. You saw how excited they were today when I kissed you. His eyes danced mischievously. Trish closed her eyes, disgusted at the reminder.

And one more thing, he sneered. I want you to severe your relationship with that guy. You'll not meet him again.

You have no business to interfere in our relationship, she retorted. Oh, but legally I do, wifey. You're my wife and any husband has every right to object to his wife's extra martial affair. Trish gasped at another falsification of truth.

What happened? Scared you, did I? But isn't it a fact? His gait has always been that of a proud wild cat; he advanced towards her backing her till she touched the wall.

I hate you, she lashed spitefully. He smirked.

You do know how I reciprocate those feelings, sweetheart. You love this, don't you? Ruining peoples' lives.

You can think whatever you like. I don't care. His shoulders lifted in another shrug.

Yeah, that's why you're the most hated man around. You make anyone and everyone hate you.

As I just said, you do know how I love being hated, he replied dryly. Trish hated his evil smirk. Right now, she hated him so much that she was consumed with the urge to tear at him, to scratch his face. She lifted her right hand, but before it could strike his cheek, his left hand clamped on to her wrist and pushed it against the wall. Her other hand also met with the same fate. Soon he had both her hands pinned against the wall while he glared fiercely at her; his whole demeanour feral.

I warn you, Trish, he rasped harshly, his eyes glinting darkly. Till now, I've been pretty tolerant of all the damages you've tried to do to me. His hands were crushing her wrists. A couple of her pink glass bangles snapped against his grasp. Blood oozed from his fingers but he didn't flinch. If the media gets even an inkling that this marriage is a farce, you can't imagine how ruthless I'll be in ruining you. Not only you, I'll ruin each and every one connected to you. I have the power to do so and also, he tossed a merciless glance at the blood on his finger, even if I've to hurt myself to hurt you, I promise you, I will. He minced on every word he spoke; she knew he meant every bit of it. Unable to withstand his scorching glare, she looked away.

You've tried ruining me and you've seen what I could do. Now, wisen up. Don't try to play any more games with me, don't meddle in my affairs, he warned. In private, we'll both maintain our own space and distance. In public, you'll ensure we're portrayed as a happily married couple to family, friends and the media; it's going to be your responsibility. If you fail there, then I've a solution to every problem.

Trish fought back the tears welling up in her eyes and looked fearlessly at him.

We've two hours for the celebration dinner dad has organised. Be a good girl and go get ready. He looked defiantly at her daring her to refuse. She threw an angry glance at his hands pinning her wrists. Following her gaze, he smirked again and relaxed his hold. Moving a couple of steps back, he made way for her to pass. She speared a contemptuous glance at him and walked off haughtily dragging her jello legs. Happy anniversary, wifey, he called after her. Her back pricked as his piercing eyes bore into it.

The shocking events of the day and the look on the faces of people around her flashed in front of her eyes as she trudged heavily up the stairs to her room. How can she forget the sadness in her heart when she came to know of Nikhil's arrest? How can she forget that gleaming eyes and evil smile of her husband as their eyes met across the room? How can she forget the cold, icy looks of her intern friends? Their taunts and barbs? Today, she's lost everything. Everything. She didn't even possess the will to carry on.

Crushed and broken, she entered her room, locked the door and flopped on the bed. Lying on her stomach, she buried her face in the pillow and cried bitterly; hot tears flowed onto the silk pillow covers. She cried and cried until a chilling thought spooked her: her astute husband's watchful eyes will relentlessly follow her everywhere as he'd promised today in front of everyone. God, what a mess her life has turned into.

She sank back into the pillow as thoughts floated back to five years ago, when her pretty normal life started taking a new turn.

Studying in a medical college in New Delhi and even though a stunner, Trishika Kapoor was more tomboyish, bubbly and vivacious back then. She had a lot of admirers but cared for none. The fair, light-brown eyed, well- built, handsome Aalok Gaur was a year senior to her and the star of their college. Trish had no great fascination for men and with Aalok's reputation as a ladies' man, they were always fighting and arguing with each other till one day she saved him from getting beaten up by the brother of a girl whom he'd ditched. After that they became very close, their friendship well talked about in the college. His nonstop dating didn't bother her at first, but slowly possessiveness set in giving rise to feelings other than friendship, making her realise she was in love with him. Many a time, she tried to bring it to his notice, but he had no such feelings and only considered her as his best friend. She was heartbroken.

One day, she got a message that her parents had died in a car accident in Bengaluru. Her father was with a private bank and had taken a transfer to Bengaluru only a couple of months back since her paternal grandmother was constantly ill. After their death, she went to Bengaluru and took on the responsibility of taking care of her grandmother. The death of her son and daughter-in-law weakened the old lady and she became even more ill. Financially, Trish had no issues as her parents had opened a number of accounts and fixed deposits in her name and being the only heir, she also had the huge ancestral house they were living in.

Nikhil Trivedi, who lived in her neighbourhood, knew her father very well. So he continued to visit her house very often. He had no family of his own in Bengaluru. A fairly good-looking, soft-spoken young man of around five feet nine inches, he was doing his internship at a local hospital.

Her unrequited love, death of her parents and the pressure of looking after her old sickly grandmother shattered and depressed Trish. Having lost all hope, she was no longer the bubbly, chirpy girl she once was. Sadness and gloom took a toll on her health and she was hospitalised for a few days due to weakness. It was Nikhil who took care of her and her grandmother. With his encouragement and help, she joined a medical college in Bengaluru to resume studies. He was always around, helping her with her studies and her grandmother's treatment. He did everything to keep her happy. She was overwhelmed with his selfless support.

Having completed his internship, he was absorbed as a doctor in the same hospital, where he continued his specialisation training. But keen on going overseas, he was also preparing for his pre-admission tests for the medical jobs in the UK. He talked of earning lots of money and making it big. Surprised with his consistent desire to be rich, one day she asked him whether money was very important to him. He said she was the one who was important to him and he wanted to be worthy of her. Seeing her confused expressions, he told her he was in love with her. She was stumped. She liked him a lot but definitely didn't have those kind of feelings one associates with love. He understood her dilemma and was willing to give her time. The news of Nikhil's interest in her however reached her grandmother. She started emotionally pressurising Trish by telling her that due to her ill health, she wouldn't live for long and that she would be happy and less stressed if she got married, insisting Nikhil's a good guy and she should think about marrying him. Besides, people have started talking about their relationship.

After much thought, a few months later when Nikhil broached the topic again, Trish was willing to accept him into her life, even though she didn't feel that strong love for him. Perhaps, she still harboured feelings for Aalok Gaur, she reasoned. Nevertheless, Nikhil was really a nice guy, her best friend and since she didn't believe in love any more, he'd make a nice companion. They decided to get married only after she completed her internship. But her grandmother was adamant they get married immediately and didn't listen to Trish's pleas to wait since she had another two years of medical college and then her internship to complete. Peeved with Trish, the old lady stopped taking her meals, falling gravely ill once again. Trish panicked as her grandmother was her only close relative and if anything happened to her, she'd be saddled with guilt all her life. It was Nikhil who once again came to her rescue, explaining to her grandmother that marriage would make it difficult for Trish to study, so they could get engaged now and after she completed her internship they'd get married. Her grandmother reluctantly agreed. Trish was grateful to him for his understanding and support. They got engaged as per her grandmother's wishes.

A month later, with an uncle's help, Nikhil got a job in New Life Centre, a hospital in London. He was on cloud nine. After he'd gone to London, they were in regular contact through emails and phone calls for the initial six months. Then slowly his calls became less frequent. He said he had to put in longer hours of work and was extremely busy. A year later, he'd called one day to say he was moving out of London into the interiors of the UK as he'd got an offer in another hospital and that he would send her the details once he'd settled in the new place. But she'd never received any calls or emails from him, not even a reply to her emails till date. She imagined he'd found a better life without her and since she wasn't in love with him, it didn't bother her too much, though she did miss his friendship. And she missed him even more, when her ailing grandmother died just as she'd completed her medical degree for he'd given her great support in taking care of her grandmother.

She joined Hopewell hospital in Bengaluru as an intern. The harshness of life in the past few years had quietened her considerably. She wasn't able to make friends and preferred to be alone. A pall of gloom had settled in her life. But after three months she shook herself out of the gloom and decided to start life afresh. For that she was determined to take a transfer to Mumbai. But since the internship at Hopewell was divided into two parts of six months each and she had another three months of the first part to be completed, it was difficult to get the transfer. Her senior Dr. Mrs. Pant, being very fond of her, put in a special request to the Mumbai hospital and she was inducted into its internship programme.

A new place. A new life. She joined Hopewell in Mumbai with renewed enthusiasm and shared the hospital's accommodation with another intern Roma, a pretty, friendly and outspoken girl, who took everything at face value, never getting emotionally attached to anything in life. She was very close to two other interns, both sisters—the tall, slim Raima and soft- spoken, good-looking Karishma Garg, daughters of the head of Hopewell, Dr. Rajiv Garg, a well-known cardiologist. Even though Raima has been adopted by her mother's brother Dr. Garg when she was orphaned at four, she's treated as the daughter of the family. Roma, Karishma and Raima formed an exclusive girl gang keeping all other interns at a professional distance. Only one other intern dared to break into this girl gang, Dr. Akshay Seth. A simpleton and an average-looking guy, he worshipped Dr. Roma. Not interested in him, she'd ignore him, but since he'd do anything she said the moment it left her mouth, she'd let him hang around them and their table in the special room with lockers given to the interns and the specialising doctors.

Then, Trish was in for a shock when she came face to face with Aalok Gaur who had completed his internship with Hopewell Mumbai and was doing his specialisation in general surgery there. To her even bigger surprise and disbelief, he was madly in love with Karishma. Her sister and closest friend weren't aware of it. In spite of Karishma being the girlfriend of Aalok, Trish liked her a lot as she was sweet, mild and a well-behaved girl. A special bond developed between them and they became good friends very soon. On meeting Aalok again, she didn't feel the pain she'd once felt. The years that had flown since they parted made her realise it was only a crush, which she'd mistaken for love. They were able to renew their old friendship; her bubbliness resurfacing once again in his company. She was genuinely happy for him and Karishma, though intrigued why they hid their love from Raima, Roma and the rest. Karishma explained that Aalok had a bad reputation when he was an intern. Not only was he known as a ladies' man, he also got into frequent verbal clashes with her father, hence her father wasn't too fond of him. She had the same issues with him at the beginning but he'd changed a lot ever since he fell in love with her. She's been waiting for an opportunity to explain her love to her father and let him know first before anyone else, but he was embroiled in some crisis at the hospital. So, they've been keeping their love a secret from everyone including her sister.

Her closeness to Karishma gave Trish an entry into the girl gang and because of his closeness to Trish, Aalok was allowed into the group and got better opportunities to hang out with Karishma in the hospital without any suspicion. Eventually, Akshay was also accepted into the group and in a month's time of Trish's joining, they all bonded real well and become a very close-knit gang. Even though Aalok was not an intern, he didn't mind being called part of the intern gang.

One day, the hospital was stunned hearing the news that Dr. Garg was no more the head of Hopewell. In his place was coming Dr. Aditya Khanna. Not only Dr. Garg's daughters, but other interns were also appalled at the news and dashed off to his cabin seeking answers. Dr. Rajiv Garg was an honest man. Even though he was a strict disciplinarian, his presence evoking nervousness in his staff, he was well respected. The interns were surprised to see his difficulty in answering their questions.

Why papa? Why are you being removed from your post? Karishma asked.

I'll answer that, came a cool, deep, timbre voice. Everyone turned towards the door. A tall, lean-muscled, young man, aged perhaps around thirty, stood there with a wide smile on his well-etched face accentuating his handsome features. The interns moved aside as he sauntered in, went around the table and stood beside Dr. Garg.

"Well, you see doctors, the Board has found a lot of mismanagement in the funds of the hospital, because of which the hospital is undergoing a big financial loss. They feel Dr. Garg may be the best doctor, but lacks administration skills. So I, Dr. Aditya Khanna, have been sent to replace him and solve the financial crisis of the hospital.

The interns were stunned. This cannot be! they chorused.

Dr. Aditya Khanna smiled lazily. It's already happened. I've come to take over the responsibilities from today. Believe me, I'm very serious about my work. Many staff members have already got their relieving letters today.

Dr. Garg, how can you let this happen? a distressed-looking Dr. Anita entered the cabin holding a letter in her hand.

What happened, Dr. Anita? Aalok asked.

Ah, so you're Dr. Anita. Aditya Khanna smiled politely. I've heard a lot about you. I believe you're a very good doctor. It's been a very tough decision for the Board members to take, but they couldn't help it. I'm sorry to see you leave Hopewell.

What? the shocked interns hollered in unison.

Dr. (Mrs.) Anita Mirchandani was a senior doctor at the hospital. A specialist in paediatrics and also the in charge of the interns, she wouldn't take any nonsense from anyone, especially from her interns. But outside work, she's an extremely soft and caring person.

Dr. Khanna, you can't remove Dr. Anita, a shocked Dr. Garg said to him.

Dr. Garg, these decisions have been taken by the Board. I've nothing to do with it. There's a recession going on and like everywhere around, jobs have to be cut down. I've been sent with a set of instructions and I'm only carrying them out. It'll be a while before I take my own decisions. Along with my duties as a doctor, I'll be handling the financial matters of Hopewell and will also be in charge of the interns till we select the right doctor to handle them.

We're not going to accept this, Aalok Gaur said in defiance. Dr. Aditya Khanna darted him a cursory glance.

Doctors, let me make this very clear. One mistake from any one of you, you'll be joining Dr. Anita in search of a new job, he said coolly. You're well aware the job markets are flooded with hordes of sacked people, jobs are not easily available these days. So, I'm sure you don't want to join the long queue of job seekers. There was no mistaking the ominous warning in his voice.

Sad and teary, Dr. Anita bid farewell to her interns while they watched helpless and with heaviness in their hearts. The threat of losing their jobs looming high on them, they went about their work grudgingly but hated Dr. Aditya Khanna with passion.

Three weeks later, one afternoon, on the way to the cafeteria for lunch, Roma and Trish were grumbling about Dr. Aditya Khanna. He'd called them to his cabin in the morning and ticked them for their average scoring, telling them to stop concentrating on tomfoolery and pay more attention to their work, if they wanted to move to the second part of their internship, scheduled in two month's time. He reminded Trish that she'd been taken only because of the special request.

He seems to be in a ticking spree these days, she grumbled to Roma. I wonder if he's married. I pity that poor wife. Surely, he's ticking her every now and then.

He isn't married, Roma informed. Any intention of filling in? she teased, her eyes twinkling.

Roma, you, Trish scowled and, waving a fist, chased her. Roma sprinted down the corridor, as fast as she could. Trish banged hard into the person coming out from the side alley losing her balance. Eyes shut, she wondered why she hadn't touched the ground as she'd expected. She opened her eyes, met with a pair of intense chocolate-brown eyes. His warm breath fanned her face; his male scent was sensual on her senses. She was angled backwards and cradled in his strong arms; its muscles she could feel even in the long-sleeved, blue-stripped shirt he was wearing. Her gaze settled on the gleaming black round pendant with a thin silver inward dip at the top, strategically resting in the middle of his chest, just at the last unbuttoned spot of his shirt, infusing a kind of sexiness to his masculinity. She gaped at him open mouthed.

Enjoying yourself, Dr. Trishika? he drawled.

Dr. Khanna, will you care to lift me up? she replied hotly. As if she'll tell him she was actually enjoying herself. And, what the hell was she thinking!

I was going to, but you seemed pretty comfortable out there, he said, amusement writ in his eyes. Her glare only broadened his grin. Gently, he pulled her up and steadied her on her feet.

I wish to inform you Dr. Trishika, the hospital premises are not for doctors to prance around like little kids. His voice was calm, but stern. This is the second time in half a day I've had to pull you up. She squirmed at his reprimand.

I guess you're only doing your job, Dr. Khanna, she retorted with a sweet smile, which didn't reach her eyes. After all you've been sent to keep a check on the staff of Hopewell. If she'd expected him to be rattled by her audacity, she was mistaken. To her annoyance, he was still smiling.

You seem to dislike me, Dr. Trishika.

I do. She confirmed blinking her eyes. And I enjoy it.

Nice to know you're able to derive some pleasure from me, Dr. Trishika, he replied coolly with a naughty gleam in his eyes. I'd hate to displease you. Now, I suppose it's your lunch break but I do hope you'd get back to serious work after that. Ah, one more thing. From now on, I'll be keeping a special watch on you. Have a nice lunch, he smiled curtly and, nodding his head, walked past her.

Damn, how calmly he spoke and dismissed her, at the same time weaving some kind of spell on her. She's still shaking by the strong sex appeal he exuded. Such monsters should be flogged for this kind of earth-shattering appeal. Another good reason to hate him. After that, she waited for opportunities to do some harm to him, but to her frustration, they never came. He was way up the position ladder for her to even touch him. But, once in a while, she'd resort to small petty things to irk him. Banging into him intentionally when he had a glass of water in his hand and apologising meekly as he gaped at his soaked clothes or slamming the door on him pretending she didn't see him. It did seem childish, but she really hated the guy and delighted in those small pleasures. Besides, wasn't he only too happy to please her?

A knock on the connecting door brought her out of her thoughts. Are you ready? She heard him call. Not yet, she yelled back.

I'm waiting at the bar. Hurry up and come down.

Temptation to disobey him stirred inside her, but then the sweet face of her adorable father-in-law flashed in front of her eyes. He'll be waiting for them; she couldn't disappoint him. Reluctantly, she got out of the bed.

* * * * *

Chapter 2: Celebration time

Hearing the sound of heels, Adi lifted his gaze from the drink he was nursing. Glancing to his right, he saw Trish standing on top of the stairs, looking elegant and ravishing in a black saree with a few scattered silver thread work on it, a matching silver-beaded string strap blouse and a string of white diamonds around her neck. A muscle twitched in his cheek, betraying the desire he was trying to hide behind his inscrutable gaze. Excitement also infusing into her, Trish stared at him dressed in a black jacquard print shirt, unbuttoned to his chest, teamed with a black denim pants and an open brown jacket.

Spellbound they stood, unable to tear their gazes away. Bracing himself, Adi turned around and went back to his drink, his ears on alert as she made her way down. Drowning his drink in one gulp, he walked towards the stairs. They stood face to face at the foot of the stairs, awkwardness stilling them to silence. He then went to the door and held it open for her. Sheer stubbornness sweeping over, she stood rooted at the spot, her chin raised as she looked defiantly at him. His jaws went taut; his eyes turned frosty; he said nothing. Two pair of hostile eyes battled for long, till his gaze turned threateningly dark. Exhaling her frustration, she stomped her feet and walked past him in a huff.

The atmosphere in the car was rife with tension; their nearness making it extremely difficult for either to breathe. She kept fidgeting with her purse. The driver's voice was a welcome slice in the high-strung silence in the car as he asked Adi if he should divert the route because there was heavy traffic ahead. Adi gave his go ahead. Moments later, he spoke again, asking Adi if he should play some music. Trish was half amused. Perhaps, the silence was also unbearable for the poor chap. Adi agreed. The music did bring some reprieve to the grinding tension.

Twiddling her fingers she darted a side glance; he was staring out of the window, his fingers fidgeting with the marriage band on his left hand lying palm open on his lap. The cut from the bangle on the mound of his middle finger was a deep one and he'd left it open. She felt a twinge in her chest and was about to say something to him, but decided against it. She didn't care. When the car stopped at their destination, relief spread on the faces of all three occupants.

Stepping out of the car, Trish nervously straightened the pleats of her saree. The press was at the entrance of the venue. It had to be her father-in- law's doing. Adi hated being in the limelight. His son's coming into his business fold was Ranvir Khanna's proudest moment and he definitely wanted everyone to see it.

Adi came around and slid his hand around her back easing her nervousness. How ironical! How can his touch be so comforting when there's so much bitterness between them? He was smiling at her; she knew it was for the cameras, returned his smile and walked beside him as they entered the venue.

Ah, there you are, Ranvir Khanna greeted them at the entrance. Like his son, he was fair and handsome, but the similarities ended there. Unlike the tall and lean Aditya, Ranvir was half a head shorter than his son, a bit stout, his little paunch well hidden in the designer evening suit he was wearing. His fondness for his daughter-in-law reflected in the affectionate and warm smile he gave her. Trish's face shone brightly the moment she saw him. His warm and pleasant face was like a soothing balm; she needed it after such an unhappy and traumatic day. She embraced him warmly.

You're looking gorgeous, sweetheart, he complimented, planting a fond kiss on her forehead. Isn't she, Adi? he asked his son. Trish hadn't meant to look, but curiosity made her glance at her husband and found his sultry gaze sweeping all over her. She glared at him.

You seem to have gotten your husband tongue-tied, Trish, unless he's already complimented you in his own way, Ranvir Khanna teased, winking at her. Deep colour flooding her cheeks, she refused to look at her husband this time. No point, there'll only be more wickedness in those evil eyes. A couple entered and greeted them, bringing along some respite for her.

At the party, Sheila and Navin Khurana greeted them warmly, engulfing them in bear hugs. The middle-aged, tall, pleasant-faced Navin, Ranvir's closest buddy, more like a brother, and his wife Sheila, a slim, chic and a warm lady were part of their family.

Adi busied himself with the guests keeping away from Trish, coming to her only when someone wanted to meet her or he wanted her to meet a guest. She was partly glad. Her overstretched nerves couldn't handle any more of his presence. Maybe, her anxiety stemmed from the fact that he was now aware of her real intentions and will watch her every move like a hawk. At least, there's no need for any more pretense between them. Any pretense was only for others, not for each other. But why the hell were her eyes constantly taking a peek at him? Surprisingly, he was doing the same.

In a hall full of people, she felt lonely. Still upset with her, her close friends kept a distance from her. If it weren't for the charming Ranvir Khanna and the affectionate Khuranas, she'd have been completely lost and abandoned. Tucking her arm in the crook of his elbow, her adorable father- in-law went about proudly introducing his daughter-in-law to his guests and keeping her amused with his jokes. Moments later, while she was in conversation with Navin and Sheila, Adi was passing by. Navin was quick to grab him by the arm.

Hey Tiger, I thought you've got married only recently? he asked, putting a fond arm around the younger man's shoulder.

It's a month now, Navin uncle, he replied, darting a meaningful glance at Trish.

You're saying it as if you've been married for a year, Sheila said teasingly. You show no behaviour of a newly married husband.

And what's a newly married husband supposed to do? he raised an amused brow.

Uffo, look at this boy, Sheila lovingly slapped his forehead. You're supposed to pay more attention to your wife, not to others. The smile faded from his face. He glanced at Trish, both exchanging the contempt in their eyes.

I always pay special attention to my wife, he said coolly. Believe me, she's always on my mind and in my eyes. His lips twisted sardonically. She couldn't have missed the jibe even if she wanted to.

That's okay, Dr. Khanna, but we'd like a dance from you newlyweds. A guest standing nearby said to him.

Oh yes, I hadn't thought about it, Ranvir Khanna had a disbelieving look on his face. You guys haven't had a single dance since you've come. And today it's exactly a month since you're married. Surely, that calls for a dance.

Yes, yes, Sheila seconded. Come on you two, get on to the dance floor, she goaded the couple who were looking uncomfortabe. But. … but, they protested. The other guests too joined in coaxing them to dance. Ranvir Khanna gave a gentle push and sent them to the dance floor at the centre.

The other dancers moved away giving them access to the whole dance floor. Everyone's attention was on them. They looked helplessly at each other. Faking a smile, Adi held out his hand to her. Following suit, she too faked a smile and put her hand in his. Surely, it wasn't going to be that difficult, both having mastered the art of pretense in the past one month. His other arm went around, settled at her back and pulled her closer to him. Like always, her body tingled at his touch. They began to sway together to the song 'Sometimes When We Touch.'

The lights went off one after the other. One spotlight remained focused on them. Damn! an irate Adi muttered under his breath. He was exasperated, she knew it. She was, too. They had no choice but to pretend. There's one person they'll never publicly let down, the adorable Ranvir Khanna.

Aware of the cameras on them, their smiles were wide but plastic. Sure signs for aching jaws by the end of the evening, Trish concluded. Now came the toughest part, his nearness. How she hated it for it led her onto the forbidden path. His familiar scent blended with aftershave started its assault on her senses. His warm breath on her face and fingers on the bareness of her back sent heat into her whole body. She could tell from the frequent appearance of tiny wrinkles on his forehead that he was as affected with her nearness as she was with his. Agitation had tensed his body. Stricken by conflicting emotions, they looked helplessly at each other. The song was Trish's favourite. She'd always dreamed of dancing romantically one day with the love of her life to this song. Instead, she was here, dancing with her biggest enemy. The lyrics of the song sparked awareness between them adding more to their unease.

'Sometimes when we touch

The honesty's too much

And I have to close my eyes and hide

I wanna hold you till I die

Till we both break down and cry

I wanna hold you till the fear in me subsides.'

She was staring into his brown eyes. His eyes always intrigued her. They carried the man's hidden mystique. But often, the impassioned expressions in them made it impossible to study their depths. Right now, she's being pulled deep into their depths as much as he was captivated by hers, both transcending into another world, a world that had only the two of them, none having a clue how long they've been in that state. Loud thunderous applause bolted them back to reality. They pulled back and acknowledged the applause of the gathering with shy, bashful smiles.

Elated, Ranvir, Sheila and Navin came and complimented them, telling them they made a very romantic and gorgeous couple. They blushed. Trish could see an annoyed Adi had clenched his fists by his side. While Ranvir Khanna was planting a kiss on Trish's forehead, he excused himself and hurriedly walked in the opposite direction, stopping only when he was greeted by a guest.

Ranvir saw Aalok and the gang standing a little distant. Pulling Trish along with