MARRIAGE VOWS

Raghu gazed at the orange sky as he jogged back home. The brilliant giver of life was rising from behind the hills gradually burning the dew on the blades of grass. Raghu never missed the sunrise in his life, either because of his early morning jogging ritual or because of his passion for photography. He liked the warmth of the sunrays and the peace they restore within him. This mornings Sun however could not restore calmness to his soul unlike that of other days. He had a sleepless night, and as he approached home least wondered if everyone else in the house had passed the night in a similar way. He knew, the same question pried everyones mind. He entered the house and touched his grandfathers feet and greeted him, who had already accomplished his early morning rituals and sat with a daily newspaper in hand. His grandfather was in his early eighties. Raghuramaiah moved his wrinkled hands over Raghus head and shoulders, and when they looked into each others eyes, knew that their eyes bore the same question, for which no one in the house had any answer. He went up swiftly on the stairs to his room, momentarily stopping and gazing at his late grandmothers photo hanging on the wall. Ten years after her death, he still could not restore peace within himself, she, Lakshmi Devi, left for heavens, but with her last wish unfulfilled, he always wondered if she did, if her soul still hovered somewhere here waiting to depart with peace of Mind. Is today, her tenth death anniversary day, going to be the day when she can finally depart truly? He promised her on her deathbed and did as she wished, but then, everything changed, and her wish was left unfulfilled. Every single day in these ten years he wished, if he could undo what happened that fateful day after her Death. He turned around and looked at the house, everyone was busy doing one chore or the other making arrangements for the Sradha puja, a puja performed praying for the departure of soul to heavens. They do this every year, with skepticism, if the intent of puja is accomplished, but today everyone desired for it to. Only if she would come, he thought, as he left in to his room. Her image, he disliked the most, he last saw ten years back, went past within his mind bringing back all the wounds alive. What did he like about her? Nothing, her smile was sweet though, it brought about certain innocence on her face, because of which his grandmother loved her so much. Was that the only reason? Lakshmi Devi loved her lot, a lot that every other family member was jealous. Why did she love her so much? Is it because, she was her granddaughter, only daughter of her younger daughter or is it because she was named after her or is it because Lakshmi Devi knew only to love? Raghu stepped into the shower and let the hot water flow on his head forcing the sweat as well as the thoughts out of his head. He washed his perfect muscular body; his body exhibited the contours developed after years of rigorous exercise regime. He stood six feet tall and had a pretty rugged physique. He came out and dressed in a decent white pyjama and went downstairs. By now, all the puja arrangements were done, relatives and villagers had gathered in the hall waiting for the ceremony to start. The priest announced the starting of puja asking Raghuramaiah if anyone else was expected in the puja. Raghuramaiah, silent for a while, replied No and signaled to start the puja. His elder daughter Parvati looked at him with pain in her eyes, she wished they could wait for some more time. Her heart wished she would come, she should come she thought, her coming only would answer my mothers

spirit, she thought. The priest lit the homa, started chanting the mantras while pouring Ghee in the homa. All the family members were seated in a circle around the homa, everyone was there except her, Raghuramaiah thought. His family was his pride and honor and that for the entire village. He went through many ups and downs in his life, life had an essence all the way, it has even now, but his wifes demise left a hole in his life. She was there with him in all steps of his life, in all his decisions, a Soul mate by his side. They got married in the year 1940, when he was 18 and she was 16. His grandfather was a local chieftain of the village and always fought against the British and refused to share the revenue of his region with the British. He continued his grandfathers legacy and took his rebellion against British to the next level when he launched an attack on a police station and almost killed a British soldier. He spent 14 years in jail and was released only after Indian independence. Lakshmi Devi waited for him, took care of his family, got his younger sister, Tulsamma, married to a local landlord, Umapathy, and served his parents until their death. She gave him two Sons and two daughters. His elder son, Mohan Rao died at an early age due to illness leaving his widow Kalavathi and a son, Pavan Rao and Daughter, Pavani behind. Raghuramaiah gave his elder daughter Parvathis hand to his sister Tulsammas only son Vengal Rao there by strengthening the two families' bond further. Parvathi has two daughters named Prasanna and Anitha and a son named Prashant. Raghuramaiahs younger son, Sankar Rao was the most loved and he kept him as the apple of his eye. Sankar Rao took up responsibility of the entire family on his shoulders after his brothers demise and lived up only for his family. His wife Suseela is the most sensitive human being and takes care of his elder brothers Son and their children alike. They have two daughters Lavanya and Divya and their son; they named him after his grandfather Raghuramaiah himself. The entire family calls him Raghu. Raghuramaiah glanced at his entire family, each of them, his grandchildren and great grandchildren, his heart filled with pride when he looked at them, he did not let the thought of his younger Daughter Jyoti come to mind. But today, he wished that Jyotis daughter Lakshmi Devi, named after his own wife, be here, not for himself, but for his wifes last wish. His thoughts were disrupted when a vehicle stopped at the gate, and she stepped out. She walked slowly towards the Simhadwaram (Main entrance) of the house, the same Simhadwaram she left ten years back, never looking back, with tears in her eyes. The same tears welled up in her eyes now, she quickly wiped them, reminding herself, the promises she made to herself throughout the journey, to never let them flow once again in this house. She left her sandals between the pile of slippers left outside and stepped in, hundreds of eyes at once glanced at her. She felt all kinds of emotions towards her, that of love, hate, anger, shock and surprise. Her eyes met with that of all the family members. The last she saw them was ten years back. She slowly walked towards her grandfather, bent and touched his feet, her hands without her knowledge quivered. She then saw her grandmothers photo setup on a table. And silently walked and sat next to Anitha who smiled and signaled her to come and sit beside her. Her heart throbbed when her eyes met with Raghu's. His eyes filled with hatred bored into hers, she reciprocated the same for a second, unable to bear anymore shut her eyes and tried to divert her thoughts on the advancing puja. Raghu sitting opposite to her, on the other side of homa, was still looking at her, a new her; she has changed in her entirety, nothing about her resembled what she was

ten years back. For a moment, he doubted if she was the same person. He recalled the last seen image of her, the image that he dumped in the dark corner of his mind. A fat innocent girl looking into his eyes with tears in her eyes as he tied the yellow sacred thread mangala sutram around her neck thus fulfilling his grandmother Lakshmi Devis dying Wish. The great Lakshmi Devi left this world the next minute with eternal happiness filled in her soul, seeing her grandson Raghu and granddaughter Devi as man and Wife. Raghu was seeing a different girl now. Devi was only 15 year old then, she was 15kg overweight, looked like a cylinder, wearing a long skirt and blouse, and two long plaits of hair. The Devi he was seeing now was different. He was not seeing a fat girl wearing big glasses. He was seeing a young woman in her midtwenties, a beautiful young woman, thin and lean, wearing a white printed cotton sari, looking like an angel coming to life from a fairytale. Her figure was perfectly curved as were her lips. Her face exhibited radiance so bright; he sensed that everyone in the house was looking at her with the same feeling as his. She opened her eyes only when the priest announced the completion of the puja. After all the rituals were accomplished and when everyone stood up at their place, Anitha lunged forward and hugged her cousin sister and her best friend Devi. Tears welled up her eyes and words flowed out of her Mouth. You are back, she exclaimed and kissed Devi on her cheek. You are so beautiful, look at you, you are wearing a sari, is this you? She questioned pinching herself to remind herself that she was not dreaming. She was living the dream she has had from years. Devi had no words, all the words were clogged in her throat, and she smiled and hugged everyone, her Aunts Parvathi, Kalavathi, her Uncle Sankar Rao and all her cousins except Sankar Raos wife and children who maintained their distance from her. She finally walked towards Tulsamma and Umapathy and took their blessings. Tulsamma looked at Devi with a mixture of anger and love. Suseela knew that this day had to come for the sake of her mother-in-laws last wish, but this was the day she dreaded the most, as expected her younger brother left the house the minute Devi stepped in. She knew he could not be stopped and kept quiet. Her daughters and her mother Kamalamma hated this moment. Lavanya and Divya detested Devi the most; they strongly felt that their lives toppled when she entered. And that their dearest brother, Raghus life was ruined after marrying her. They felt that she was the most imperfect match for their handsome brother. However, even they could not disagree that the Devi they were seeing now was not the same. She had changed. She was looking magically beautiful. All the villagers and close relatives left to have lunch arranged after the puja. Everyones discussion was centered on one subject. While they were very happy on Devis return, they continued discussing how beautiful she has turned into and how perfect she was looking for Raghu. Many came by and spoke with her and greeted her and left for their homes. Only family members were left at home, Raghuramaiah, his sister, her husband and other elders of the family took their seats on the traditional rosewood furniture in the hall, while the others sat on the carpet in the center of the hall. The servants took the children along with them into the mango grove leaving the elders of the house to have the much awaited discussion without any interruption. Tulsamma broke the long lasting silence and asked Devi. Why are you here?

I am here to keep the promise I made before I left, said Devi. After ten years! What makes you think we are still waiting for you? Do you expect us to welcome you back into our lives after ten years? Tulsamma said in a brassy tone. She waved off Kalavathi who started to speak something. I have come here with no expectations, I came here to keep my promise, it is up to you all whatever you decide, I am ready to stay or leave as per you decide, Devi replied curtly. Raghu was enraged; he stood up and turned to leave when his grandfather asked him for his decision. I have nothing to say, I have always maintained my stance and there is no change, I shall keep my promise no matter what others say, he said as he took a sharp glance at Devi. Suseela sensed that her mother Kamalamma was about to speak something and pressed her palm signaling her to stay silent. Kamalamma knew what was about to happen, she could do anything possible and go to any extent to stop this. However, she understood that this was not the right time and kept quiet. Umapathy finally spoke up. It was your grandmothers wish as per which you both got married, he said to Raghu and Devi. It was her dying desire that you live happily together for your entire life. She believed that you both are made for each other and we had faith in her decision. However, you both choose to part your ways and now you both are here to fulfill your marriage, so, let this happen. You both stayed separate for the last ten years, many people do not know that you are married, we will arrange for you to get married again on an auspicious day, he said. Everyone maintained silence. Raghu nodded his head and left into his room. Devi spoke up, I want to take leave now, I will leave my mobile number with Anitha, call and inform me about the marriage date, I will come over, she said and got up. Sankar was trying hard to understand his nieces heart, he loved her so much, and wanted to give her the best, but circumstances had always failed him. You are my daughter and you will stay in this house until and after marriage and forever, you are going nowhere this time, he said holding her shoulders. Each minute was making it more difficult for Devi to conceal her emotions. I cannot stay here, I stay in Hyderabad, I work there, she said. Thats even better, we all stay there, you will come along with us tomorrow for our home and thats final, he said and stopped her as she tried to speak. Devi felt trapped, she understood that it was useless to talk anything else and kept quiet. Anitha came by her side and took her to their room, the room wherein she had spent around two of her most difficult years. Devi glanced around the room, not much had changed, the furniture remained the same in the entire house, mostly made of rosewood and teak, recently polished and shining, she thought. The wardrobes were huge and were designed in a traditional style with brass fixtures. Her grandmother had personally decorated each and every part of this home and realized it step by step after her marriage. She moved about in the room, touching and feeling the wood of the cot and the closet. Memories of her past flooded back into her mind, the past when she laid curled alone on this cot

crying for hours, not realizing when she dozed off to sleep. The days when she hid in the huge closet so that she can shut the bitter words cast on her. Everyone doubted if you would come back, but I believed you will keep you promise, I missed you so much, we have a lot to talk, share each and every moment of these ten years, Anitha kept speaking. I am tired after a long journey. And my head is aching, can I rest for some time? Devi said with a faint smile on her lips. So bad of me, I should have understood you must be tired, you take rest, Anitha said while she tried to hide her disappointment and left the room closing the doors behind. Devi sat on the bed trying to picture her future which seemed hazy, she lay on the bed staring at ceiling, and she knew that the person she hated the most was in the next room across the wall, the person with whom she has to walk together figuring her destiny. Fate has always played wrong with me, but I will never lose hope, she thought as she tried hard to shut her eyes and catch a nap. Anitha wanted to go downstairs and fetch a glass of water, but her feet automatically moved towards the next room. As she opened the half-shut doors she was not surprised when she saw all her cousins in the room talking to Raghu. His sisters Lavanya and Divya were sitting next to him on the bed, conspiracy works already kicked off, she thought as she stepped into the room. Welcome Madam! How is your best friend? asked Lavanya not trying to hide any bit of sarcasm in her voice. Anitha walked in and stood silent knowing that any bit of talk with them was useless. Lavanya would not give up. Did you notice how proud and rude she was? She did not even bother to talk to us, she continued. Forget about usshe did not greet Mom too, Divya added. She has arrived just now. We have to give her some time, it is difficult even for her to forget the past and unite with us all, Prasanna said trying to relax the situation. I wished for her to not come back and ruin our lives once again, Lavanya spoke out And what about grandmothers dying wish, Anitha said in a contemptuous voice. Good. She will spoil my brothers life in the name of fulfilling grandmothers dying wish, Lavanya continued. What wrong has she done to any of you that you hate her so much? Anitha asked while trying to control her anger. What wrong....her being in my brothers life itself is wrong. She is no match for him. Raghu is highly educated and the most respected person in the society. Any educated good looking girl would be ready to marry him had she not entered his life. Gayathris sister and Giris sister are lined up to marry him and here he has to spend his entire life with this illiterate little orphan with no identity of herself. Orphan! How can you be so mean Lavanya? It is we who desolated her when she needed us the most, Anitha shouted.

We did not abandon her, no one did, leaving house was her choice, Raghu cried trying to suppress his anger. We did not give her any reason to stay behind either, said Anitha and stormed out of the room. Gayathri had never seen her family fight this way in her life. It had been two years since her marriage with Pavan and she had known this family since her brothers marriage with Lavanya nine years back. Bond between both the families strengthened further after her marriage. Her father a retired Army officer considered well off Raghu and held him in high esteem. After all, he was the youngest known police officer to grow into the rank of deputy Commissioner of Police, the most daring, efficient and deadly officer of times. It was a year back when her father approached Raghuramaiah proposing getting his younger daughter Sunitha married to Raghu when they came to know that Raghu was married. She had only seen a few photos of Devi then and was shocked. She saw a fat girl with a round face wearing thick framed glasses with absolutely no poise. Pavan explained to her everything about Devi, the circumstances under which Raghu married Devi. Pavan spoke of Devi with distinguished regard, he said that she was very innocent and very good at heart and loved everyone. She had not discussed further then. Devi she saw today was not the girl she had seen in those photos. She thought. She saw a woman who was looking elegant even in a simple cotton sari. She had left her long black hair untied; it flowed in waves adorning her glowing skin. The thick framed glasses were gone; her eyes were bordered with long lashes and eyebrows. A straight nose, full lips she would have been the picture of perfection only if she had smiled. She does not look like the one in those photos I saw, Gayathri said as she worked in the kitchen along with Pavani. Yeah! She has absolutely transfigured, exclaimed Sirisha as she entered the kitchen. I had met her after my marriage and she looked so boring then. Have you observed her now? She looks as though God has made her and sent her only for Raghu, a perfect match from heaven, she continued. Pavani just replied with a silent smile. She knew Sirisha was a chatterbox and she was too tired to carry on any conversation. Nonetheless, she was very content in her heart seeing the changed Devi, but she knew that this was not enough. She, like Anitha, cared for Devi a lot, but she also knew her cousin brother Raghu, it was difficult for any girl to match up with and understand his sophisticated mentality. And Devi too seems to have returned this time with a head of her own, she was exhibiting an uncompromising stance, hopefully matters do not get worse, she prayed in her mind as she filled the glasses with hot coffee. Sirisha and Gayathri carried the coffee cups and served everyone in the house their evening coffee. As usual, the elders of the house were sitting in the porch while the others gathered on the terrace. Cousins sipped coffee silently; everyone seemed exhausted to start any conversation. Raghu was silently leaning on the parapet wall watching the birds finding their way back home. Anitha dragged Devi and took her along with her to join others, praying in her mind for a smooth conversation this time.

Pavan as he saw Devi walking towards the gang mumbled No satires this time as he determined to lighten up the environment. He extended his hand welcoming Devi and introduced his wife Gayathri, Pavanis husband Rajesh and Prasannas husband Ravindhra. He said that his wife Gayathri is a gynecologist, Rajesh works as Reserve Bank of India branch manager and that Ravindhra was an IAS officer. Pavan and Prashant continued their family business along with Sankar Rao. Gayathris brother aka Lavanyas husband Sudarshan was absent at the occasion. Are you carrying? Devi asked Gayathri. Yes, the baby bump is already showing right? Gayathri answered with a smile. Not just the bump, you have a special glow to your face. Congrats. Devi replied. Devi mingled with everyone and spoke with everyone open heartedly; Raghu observed that she did not shy herself away the way she used to in her childhood. She congratulated Anitha when she came to know that she is studying neurology and that her fianc is a practicing cardiologist. Lavanya announced proudly that her husband and Divyas fianc Giri kumar own a very big petrochemical business. Anitha and Divya were getting married after three months. Devi knew that this family valued education a lot and really appreciated the fact. Anitha finally in her attempt to break the ice took Devi near Raghu and said, Meet your fianc Mr. Raghu, he is a very famous police officer posted as the deputy commissioner of police, South Hyderabad. He is head of the Special Investigation Team and is known to be an encounter specialist, be careful, Sirisha, the chatterbox, added. Everyone laughed out loud at her comment, a muteness continued between Raghu and Devi both unwilling to take the first step to come past the bitterness that got rooted in their hearts since years. They did not try to even look straight at each other. Devi was amazed. She knew that Raghu would be a police officer; it was his ambition for which he had left her she thought. Nevertheless, she did not imagine that he would have grown to such heights. Divya was very sure that her brother would never yield to these attempts being made by her cousins and said. Everyone knows how efficient my brother is, we need not iterate it. What about you? What have you been doing these many years? I thought you left to achieve something great... Devi tried to speak up. She knew that her lifestyle and her identity were completely opposed. Whatever she does and whatever she is, she knew that no one in this family had an ear for it. She was lost in her past thoughts when she left this house with only her dreams by her side. Are you living in the same orphanage? Prashant asked. She replied simply nodding her head. She continued to say something when the kids came running towards them. She was delighted to see so many children around; she spends most of her time with children in the orphanage and cherishes each and every moment. There were six children- Pavanis eight-year old son Praneet, Prasannas nine-year

old daughter Dhruvi and eight-year old son Aaditya, Sirishas six-year old daughter Sneha, Lavanyas eight-year old son Aakash and seven-year old daughter Pallavi. They encircled her and bombarded her with many questions all at once that she could not make out anything. She laughed out loud when Sneha offered to exchange her precious doll with Devis long hair. She laughed continuously and talked to them continuously about their school, their dolls, games, and pets. She did not have the restrained mentality anymore. It looked as though the entire world was laughing along with her. Raghu lit a cigarette while watching her bright shimmering eyes as though captivated in them. He saw them glowing for the first time. Amidst the conversation and petty talks, the gang did not realize when the sky turned dark and the moon started showing his presence. All of them went downstairs and joined the elders. Ramanand swamiji will be coming tomorrow to see your horoscope and decide wedding date. Dad invited him over just now, Parvathi announced looking at Raghu and Devi. The silence was back. Sankar Rao wondered as to what has to be done to see his dear ones happy together. The ladies of the house started setting the dinner table. Unlike in traditional Indian houses, women did not eat after men in Raghuramaiahs house. All the elders of the family ate first while the youngsters served them. Raghuramaiah had always believed in equality for women. He treated and educated all his children equally. His sisters family lived in the opposite house, but almost always stayed with him. The elders finished their dinner served on banana leaves on a low table while sitting on floor cushions. The youngsters started having their dinner then. Eat well Devi! Your in-laws house unlike your orphanage has plenty to serve. Look how skinny you have become, Lavanya remarked when Devi turned down the second serving of rice. Everyone at the table was irritated with this remark. Looking at you, this does not seem to equal as that of your in-laws house, Devi reacted slyly. Lavanya hated when anyone commented on her obesity. Her face was flushed with anger, but when she saw the other members trying hard to conceal their smiles, she resented, I will never forget this, she thought as she got up from the dinner table. Raghu was observing Devi, trying to read her expressions, he wanted to know her heart, and he had hundreds of questions for her, but held himself back. He did not hate her, but neither did he like her, he wanted to get rid of the resentment built in his heart as soon as possible. His upbringing prevented him from hating anyone forever. It burdened his heart. The elders left into their respective rooms to rest while the youngsters left to sleep on the terrace carrying the beds. Devi remembered the good old days when all of them as children slept on the terrace together under the open sky talking for hours until they drifted to sleep. But, she was in no mood to talk with them now. She was mentally tired and did not want to exchange words with them. She changed into a night dress, a half sleeve round neck tee shirt and a cotton pyjama, and joined them on the terrace.

She is looking simple and radiant even in a night dress, Sirisha whispered. Raghu sat pretending to not have listened. Divya walked in and announced cheerfully that Giri and his parents were coming the next day morning. You did not tell what you do? Are you working somewhere or doing something? Sirisha asked starting conversation with Devi. I sing in movies, I work as a playback singer and Devi replied when Divya interrupted her in between. Movies. We never heard of youwhat do you sing? Are you part of any chorus band? she interposed sarcastically. Devi felt irritated. She knew that no one in this family had respect for musical career. She did not want to react to Divyas silly remarks; she closed her fist tight trying to control her anger. I have an important call to make, Excuse Me! she announced and walked away to a corner of the terrace. Divya ignored everyone looking angry at her and went to sleep. It was after everyone slept that Devi returned and quietly lay down next to Anitha. She stared at the dark starry sky. The moon was shining bright; she recalled her childhood days when she slept along with her parents while her father showed him the saptarishi constellation. It was her favorite activity. She avoided seeing the night sky after their death until one day her grandmother understood her troubled heart and told her that her parents were also there among those stars and were watching her. She drifted to sleep as she wondered if they were watching her right now and if she had also joined to be with them. Raghu woke up to the soft tweeting of the birds. He saw all his cousins still in deep sleep except her. He went to his room, washed his face and changed into his jogging dress. He wanted to walk towards the next room and see if she was there, but dropped the idea and left for jogging. He jogged on the kutcha road between the paddy fields and stopped short when he saw her jogging in the opposite direction. She too stopped on seeing him taking out the earphones she had plugged in. They stood facing each other staring silently. She knew she had to say something, 'Hi or Good Morning', but knew that it was awkward and was quietly searching for words. Raghu was staring at her beautiful face, she had tied her long hair into a ponytail and was looking fresh, and her skin glowed in the early morning light. Their thoughts were disturbed on hearing the laughter beside them; it was Mangamma Aunt their neighbor along with three other neighborhood women. What are you both looking at she asked while she continued laughing. Dont be so dumb Mangamma, they are man and wife meeting after years, what have we got to do between them, she said as they moved past. Raghu and Devi were embarrassed. Devi quietly walked away with her head bent as Raghu continued looking at her. Raghu on returning home saw that everyone was busy with their own work. Few ladies were working in the kitchen while the others were busy making welcome arrangements for swamiji. He quickly finished his bath and came downstairs to join others when Giri and his parents walked in and greeted everyone. Giri was the friendliest and level headed person they had seen. He greeted Raghu with a handshake as he inquired jovially Where is my sister? Is she so treasured that you have you hidden her somewhere? Raghu felt uneasy at this conversation and just replied with a quiet smile. She is dressing up all the kids, the kids, especially Sneha, are not leaving her side from the time she has come, Sirisha replied. They all

sat down having tea when Devi came along with the kids and stood by their side. She was wearing a simple cream and pink color silk sari with minimal jewelry. She felt uneasy when she realized everyone was looking at her. She was looking mesmerizingly beautiful, the elders saw Late Lakshmi Devi in her. I am sorry I got late, Devi spoke trying to break the silence. Raghus gaze was fixed on her. OMG! I cannot believe my eyes!!, Giri exclaimed as he approached Devi. I am so glad to meet youthat too this way.I just love your songs and your voice Giri went on while the rest of the family looked puzzled. Giri was astonished when he understood that they were unaware. The family was shocked when Giri told them. She is one of the most famous singers of this generation. She has sung hundreds of songs and has recorded film songs not only in Hindi but also in Bengali, Gujrarati, Kannada, Marathi, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, etc. She has won over ten filmfare awards and three national awards. Apart from this she is also a famous dancer. She has given so many performances in Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi and western dance styles. They understood that she finally realized her dreams, without their support, their presence and aid. They had distanced themselves from music and movies that they were not aware of Devis growth. On knowing, the elders cherished in their heart, but no one opened up to praise her. Sankar Rao got up and walked towards her; he came near her and kissed her on her forehead. The family had their breakfast while the youngsters were discussing about Devis songs and her dance asking hundreds of questions and expressing their delight. Suseela kept quiet. Kamalamma, Lavanya and Divya detested the happenings, seeing Giris approach however, they had to keep quiet. Raghu was dumbstruck. No one in the family paid heed when Devi tried to convince them about music career. And now she was here, standing tall in front of them, having realized her dreams alone. He could not stop admiring her. He was confused, with hundreds of questions in his heart, he longed to talk to her, know her, understand her, but stopped himself, he felt somewhere deep inside his heart, is my ego that is stopping me? It was around 10 Oclock when Swamiji arrived; Umapathy along with his wife Tulsamma washed Swamijis feet and welcomed him. After the formal rituals, Tulsamma handed over horoscopes of Devi and Raghu to Swamiji and signed them to sit in front of him. What do you want to know my child? asked Swamiji as he studied Devis palm. He knew the family from years and already realized that Raghu believed in karma or deed and never showed interest in knowing his future. Nothing Swamiji Devi replied. Are you not interested in knowing your future, your destiny? asked Swamiji. I have faith in my actions Swamiji, and if ones destiny is already written and cannot be changed what is the purpose of knowing it forehand Devi replied. Both your grandchildren seem to be sailing in the same boat Raghuramaiah, however, I will read their future for your satisfaction said Swamiji his face filled with serenity.

Your wife had a divine heart Raghuramaiah. She knew what fate had for these children; she knew that God Almighty has sent them to be together forever. They are meant to be for one another in all steps of life. Weed out all the doubts from your mind and tie them into the bond of marriage as soon as possible. Their bond shall have the strength to bind all the evil forces that shall come Swamiji pronounced. Raghu and Devi looked silently at each other, their hearts were pounding when Swamiji pronounced and family finalized on September 14th as their marriage date, hardly two months left they thought. Everyone packed their bags and took leave from their grandparents and left for Hyderabad. Parvathi and her husband Vengal rao were the only one who lived in the village along with their parents. Sankar Rao clearly instructed Devi to shift to their home the next day itself. She simply nodded her head knowing that any attempt to convince him would be vain. She arrived at their lavish villa located in Banjara hills the next day morning. Leaving orphanage after spending ten long years distressed her. The orphanage was run by her parents best friends Satyam uncle and Asha Aunt who were childless. Everyone in the orphanage was sad, but no one tried to stop her as she was taking a step towards her future. She promised them that she would visit them every day. Her work took her to too many places, but orphanage was the only place of solace for her. As she grew up and started earning, she gave her everything to this place. She had to share a room with Anitha and Divya in the Raos house. The house however big was just enough sufficient for the joint family. There was a big hall, dining room, kitchen and a few bedrooms for elders on the ground floor. All the cousins stayed in the bedrooms on the first floor. The third floor had a study room, a small library, a vast Home theater room and a gym and an open terrace garden. The house was surrounded by a spacious garden and a pool in the backyard. There was a lot of love and peace in this family but not for Devi. The family was split only when about her; everyone except Sankar raos family loved her. The feud started when Suseelas family and this family decided to get Jyoti married to Pratap rao, Suseelas brother. Pratap loved Jyoti from the time he met her in his sisters marriage. Jyoti was Raghuramaiahs pride, he agreed to the proposal without consulting Jyoti, he loved her so much that he strongly believed that she would obey him. Jyoti was also on the same track, she loved his father so much that, she felt he will be with her in every decision and gave her heart to Devis father Jeevan. Relations went sour when each of them was confronted with the truth and Jyoti left home forever. Raghuramaiah cut all his relations with her and swore to never see her in life. He kept his promise; he did not see her even after her death in a road accident. It was Lakshmi Devi who was adamant and brought Devi home and strongly decided to not leave her in the orphanage. Devi went about roaming in the house seeing who lived where. The house was empty during the day as everyone left for their work except Kalavathi, Prasanna, Sirisha and Suseela. She had a quick lunch and left for the recording studio. It was dinner time when she came back. Almost all the family members were sitting at the dinner table, and she quickly refreshed herself and joined them at the table. Anitha sat chitchatting with Devi but had to leave when she got an emergency call from the hospital. Devi slept without talking much to Divya.

Devi led a very strict disciplined life; she woke up early in the morning even before sunrise and practiced rigorous yoga. She took her yoga mat and found a quiet place in the first floor terrace behind their bedrooms and started off in the new place. Raghu, the only other early person in the house, left for the gym after a while. He encountered Devi after a while when he stood by the gym window and looked down. She was doing the usual suryanamaskara and was looking awesome in her tight-fitting yoga clothes. Raghu could not shift his attention when he saw her doing the Matsyasana, the fish pose. He continued staring at her till she completed her routine and left. It was after a while did he realize that he had forgotten about his workout. He wondered that she had exercised for almost an hour. He took his bath, dressed up and reached the dining table; everyone including Devi was having their breakfast. Devi was dressed in a casual t-shirt and jeans; He wondered how could she look simple and beautiful at the same time? Devi saw Raghu coming down the stairs, she saw him in his uniform for the first time, and he was looking serious and handsome. The uniform did little to hide his muscular body. The sleeves of his shirt fit too tight over his brawny arms. She tried hard to shift her gaze lest anyone would know, but little did she know that he already saw her gazing at him. She felt more uneasy when he came and sat next to her, there is a chair vacant next to Gayathri too, she wondered. He was sitting too close she felt. Raghu got a whiff of her fragrance when he bent for curry bowl. He wanted one chance to talk to her, it has been three days since they have met, but the silence between them ruled. The security personnel at the gate came inside the hall and informed that a woman named Ramani was waiting at the gate for Devi. She is my assistant, let her in, Devi replied. Devi quickly finished her breakfast knowing that she was getting late for the recording session. Very sophisticated, she maintains an assistant too, Divya whispered to Prashant next to her. She started a conversation with Ramani when Devi went to fetch her things from her room. How long since you have been working with Devi? asked Divya. From six years Madam, Ramani replied. What do you do? Is your Madams life so busy to maintain assistant Divya asked. I manage all her work Madam, I manage her appointments, travel, I even drive her car, Ramani replied. Divya was about to say something when Devi arrived. Where is recording today? she asked as she handed over guitar and bag to Ramani and quickly exited the house. I should talk to her in the night Raghu thought. Raghu swiftly walked into DGP office in the police headquarters while the constables saluted. His team members, Senior Inspector Shivaram and Senior Inspector Dinesh, were already waiting in the room. They were his best friends from the time of their police training together. They parted ways when they assumed their initial postings in various places but gathered after six years here at Hyderabad on a mission. Raghu had worked in Odisha state for six years; he had dedicated his days and nights building a strong police force fighting against the Maoists in Silakota forest region. He forgot keeping track of the number of Maoists he had killed in encounters and various covert operations in the region. He almost

lost his hand in one Maoist bombing. He was still not satisfied. The crime rate keeps growing he said one day expressing his displeasure to his grandfather. I feel like I am not doing enough. His grandfather patted his back. in my days, we were fighting only with outsiders, but now, you are in a different game, you are fighting both insiders and outsiders, he said encouraging him. Most of Raghus higher officials did not like his methods. He does not trust the judiciary they commented on his back. And it was true. He was the most impatient person. Who wants to waste time carrying these criminals around courts and protecting them in jails, we have better works to do, he would counter back. He saw everything in black and white. When he believes in his mind that a person is a criminal, his part of judgment is done. He and his team had established their own way of working and rules. After observing for years, his higher officials came to terms with the fact that, if they entrust some work to Raghu, they have to forget about it and leave him free. Few people could not support this fact and got him moved from Odisha. He was happy anyway; he was back to Hyderabad, to be present with his family. Staying with family had its own setbacks, his family, especially his mother, would spend sleepless nights waiting for him however hard he tried to convince her. Hyderabad was a different field. Here, His team had to work on the terrorist activities in Hyderabad. Shivaram already had established a descent informers network. The team spent around six months gathering information from various sources. The team was gathering crucial information; Raghu was targeting the sleeper cells spread across the city. It has been six months and there is no movement, is he sleeping. We have to show some arrests to the public, the home minister instructed the in charge DGP Prakash Mishra. DGP Purushottam was on leave from a month and the in charge DGP was feeling pressure from all around. The team stood up and saluted Prakash Mishra as he walked into the room. He briefed about his earlier meeting with the home minister and asked them to get things to action. Real operations do not work the way ministers expect Mishra sir, you know very well, ignore whatever they say, have trust on us, we know what we are doing, Raghu spoke concisely. Mishra already knew that he could not expect more than this from Raghu. He called off the meeting in a very short time. Devi and Raghu were clearly immersed in their work schedules. Devi had to complete her recordings as soon as possible and free her calendar for the live concert coming up next month. It was night 10 o'clock when she arrived at home the other day, tired and exhausted. There are certain rules you have to follow in this house, Suseela announced as Devi walked upstairs. You cannot walk in and out of the house as you wish, the women in this house have to live by certain principles, she continued. There are others too working in this house in odd timings, Devi replied, she never liked talking to Suseela. Others inform elders of this house about their whereabouts unlike you, do not forget that you are getting married into this house soon, it is better you realize your responsibilities and correct your timings, Suseela replied in a commanding voice.

I will ask my assistant to keep you informed about my whereabouts, but if you are asking me to compromise my career to continue staying in this house, thats impossible, Devi replied curtly and walked up the stairs without waiting for any further dialogue. Suseelas face contorted with anger as other family members watched them silently. Raghu was watching this drama from upstairs his blood boiling. He grabbed Devi by her arm as she reached upstairs and dragged her into his room and yelled, No one talks to my mother like that, do you understand? Devi was startled by this sudden event. After ten years she thoughthe talks to me and this is what he got to say. Her face turned red with anger and sorrow at the same time. She choked for words as she tried to release her arm from his tight grip. She never felt so helpless and felt like she would burst crying. She recalled the promise she made to herself that she would never cry in this house. She gathered all her strength and pushed him away. No one talks to me like this either, mind it, never touch me or force me against my will next time, she shouted and ran into her room. She quickly ran and locked herself in the bathroom lest anyone will see her tears. She quickly turned on the shower and stood under it, letting her tears mix with the cold water. Raghu felt restless. His mind was confused, and he was feeling sad and angry at the same time. He was waiting to talk to her and clear the misunderstandings between them, but situations had always turned contrary. Devi started avoiding the family members totally; Things got better only when Giri walked into the house after a few days. Everyone was gathered on the terrace, a barbeque was setup and the cousins were having real fun. Devi having come home just then, could not avoid the meet up. She could not brush aside Giris invitation and joined the group. She was eating her favorite chocolate bar. Raghu sat facing Devi. It felt hurting when she did not even try to look at him. I have been watching you from the day you have comeI always see you having a chocolate. How do you eat so many chocolates and still maintain your figure, Gayathri inquired. I know. Chocolates are my weakness. I cannot stay without them. One live performance for your biggest fan, Giri requested Devi. Now, no, I am exhausted, some other time, promise Devi replied. All the others joined Giri and started pushing her while Anitha fetched Devis guitar from her room. There was no escape Devi considered. She unwillingly took the guitar and started singing one of her favorites as everyone watched mesmerized. The group watched silently even after she finished singing the song and put the guitar aside. Raghu watched her transfixed; he himself did not know that he was falling for her.

His life revolved around his job and ambition. He had always wanted a person in his life that as a partner would support him in his decisions and not drag him back due to her fears and inhibitions. Devi seemed to be part of a separate world; moreover she was exhibiting a restraint towards the family. Officers at the information intelligence cell were working days and nights as Dinesh monitored them. Traffic had drastically increased in the past few days. They thought. They were tapping various cell phones and land phones. They had listed down many land phone number including some public telephone booth numbers too. Intercepting few conversations was becoming problematic for them. Dinesh brought in pages of intercepted data and placed them in front of Raghu that evening. They were in a crucial discussion when Giri called him. Party time man! Life has become absolutely boring, lets head to disco tonight he said cheerily. I am not sure Giri, you guys carry on, I have important meetings ahead, Raghu replied. No excuses, it is your to be brother-in-law ordering you, make it to the disco Sharp 7 o'clock, said Giri and disconnected the call not giving a chance to Raghu for further discussion. Anitha smiled happily seeing her plan workout. She had earlier called Devi as well and convinced her to come to disco. Devi agreed to the plan only after understanding indirectly that Raghu might not be coming. Raghu studied all the messages one by one, he was exhausted by the time he glanced the clock, it was already 6:30 PM. He lit one more cigarette as he told Dinesh, something is missing Dinesh. These messages are incomplete; there are some important links missing, some loose ends Enough Raghu, you cannot do away with all the criminals on Earth in a single day, Aarthi is waiting for me at home, it is better you too head to disco and relax your brain for tomorrows work, Dinesh asserted as he took away the file from Raghu. Raghu felt that Dinesh was true. He freshened up as he wondered if Devi would be coming, it is Divya and Giris party, she would not come; he thought and headed for the disco. All his cousins were already there by the time he reached. Heres the plan, let's relax and dance for a while and then head to the restaurant, Giri announced. Restaurant too, whats up buddy, looks like you are trying hard to impress my sister, Raghu said trying to pull Giris leg. Here comes the Diva!! Giri announced when Devi entered the disco and approached the gang. She could not look more beautiful Raghu thought seeing Devi in a burgundy colored sleeveless cocktail dress that reached just above her knees. She plaited her hair into a stylish braid and wore simple platinum jewelry. The group felt like the entire disco was watching her, but she walked past the crowd as if she was used to such stares. Her walk slowed down as she saw Raghu present. She felt conscious only when she saw Raghu was looking at her with a twinkle in his eyes.

Meet my fianc Anil, told Anitha as she introduced the person sitting next to her. Pleasure is mine, announced Anil as he extended his hand with a smile. I do not have good knowledge of music, but your songs are the most soothing, I hear them often. Can you reveal some secrets behind your wonderful songs? Devi responded with a warm smile. Secret. Nothing like thatWhen you're singing you can hear the echo of people in the audience singing every single word with you, and that was that big dream that my parents had for myself. I am just trying to live up to their dream. Devi replied. The group had their drinks and danced boisterously on the disco floor. All of them knew some dance moves, but it was Devi who danced with elegance, very soon the entire disco was swaying to her dance moves. She even performed on two of her favorite dance numbers on DJs request. All of them headed to the restaurant and continued their chatting. They talked everything as they had their dinner; they were people from all kinds of professions- doctors who worked with the most sensitive cases in the operation theatre, business men and engineers. It was only this couple that stood apart, a police officer and a singer/dancer. You are beautiful Devi and famous too, you should watch your back Giri told Devi. Now you are flattering me. She need not worry; she will be wife of the most daring police officer soon, you should make a media announcement about your marriage Devi, I know all the guys will be left heartbreak. Anil added laughing. There is no need to go so far, I have managed myself till now very well. But you know, todays world is very ugly; it is totally unsafe for women, you will have to come seeking my brothers help, Divya added. She is the best to spoil any conversation cursed Sirisha in her mind. I said I dont need any help. Yeah! We will see. Remember this when you come running for my brothers help in future. Divya stated arrogantly. Devis temper reached the limits. I assure you, your brother will be the last person in this world I reach for help, asserted Devi. Enough guys stop it! Cannot you people spend one hour peacefully together. Your remarks are too absurd Devi; you need not react so personally. You know Divyas mentality. Anitha shouted.

I am speaking my mind, I need not understand ones mentality and change my stance, I had enough of this rubbish, I will wait for you guys outside, declared Devi and stormed out the restaurant. Raghu sat quietly rubbing his brow, he knew Divyas comments were provoking, but he did not expect such anguish of Devi. He clearly realized that she was not the same person who abided in circumstances like earlier. Devi stood alone on the pavement for others to join, she felt really frustrated, and she knew that these kinds of conflicts will only spoil her peace, but she had firmly made her decision, she was not to sacrifice her dignity and self-respect this time at any cost. She was lost in her own thoughts and did not pay attention to three guys surrounding her. By the time, she realized one of the guys made his move and put hand on her waist. She tried to quickly avoid him and move back, but the second guy blocked her way and started making nasty comments. Leave me alone or I will smash your face rascals, she yelled at them. The guys did not mind, you are welcome baby, not everyone gets a chance to be smashed by a girl like you, they laughed and came further near her. The group calmly sat down while waiting for the bill while Anil quietly looked out the window. He could see Devi standing on the pavement alone; there was not much movement as it was already half past ten. He suddenly saw that three guys surrounded Devi and started teasing her. He quickly stood up and alerted the group and everyone looked out of the window. They quickly ran down the stairs out of the restaurant, and stopped short as they watched the scene. Devi had taken over at the guys bravely. She hit one guy on his stomach and punched the other guys nose so hard that it started bleeding. The third guy was not spared; she hit him on the shin so bad that the guy squealed in pain. The first guy recovered fast and grabbed Devi by her back, she quickly reacted, she swung her arm across to break his hold while she hit him backwards with her other elbow. Even before they could register what was happening, she quickly took out a pepper spray out of her hand bag and sprayed directly on their faces. The guys learnt their lesson hard; they would not tease any other woman in their life. Devi stood there watching calmly as the goons ran across the street and. The group watched all this with their mouths wide open. Actions speak a thousand words. Raghu thought as he glared at Devi silently. This attempt is also a disaster, Anitha cursed within self and looked sadly at Anil. It had been three weeks since Devi came back into their lives with no positive event till now. The next three days had been busy for Raghu and Devi. Devi had started preparations for her next concert while Raghu continued on his mission. It was one fine morning when Kamalamma came home accompanying her granddaughter Pooja. Pooja was 17-year old and was going to stay in the house for next 3 months to attend medical entrance coaching classes. Things cannot get worse than this, should this old woman come now and stay here? Anitha murmured in Pavans ear.

Devi did not pay attention to any of the movements in the house and started off with her practice every day in her room. There are children in this house studying hard and preparing for their exams, will you stop your noise, Kamalamma barked on Devi. This is not noise, I am practicing, this is as important to me as the exams are for others, Devi retorted. Kamalamma would not give up; she continued murmuring until Devi was vexed. Devi however did not want to waste her time in these tiffs. She started practicing in the orphanage and studio with her team from then on. She started leaving home early even before breakfast routine and came in late after dinner. Sankar Rao had to budge to the storm of questions and had to talk to Devi finally. Uncle, I stay back late because I am in no mood to squabble with people here, I have an important concert lined up and have no room for practice in this house, if you can provide an alternate, let me know, Devi replied in the most moderate tone possible. Use Home theater room dear, no one will disturb you or no one will get disturbed, Sankar rao replied with a calm smile on his face. Lavanya had come along with the kids to meet her grandma one evening. Raghu had invited Shivaram, Dinesh and Aarthi also for evening snacks. They all were seated in the garden having their evening tea. Raghu had a rifle range setup in the garage next to the garden so that he could practice regularly. The range of the target was six yards, though he never missed the perfect center hit, he practiced regularly to have a running record of accuracy. Dinesh was teaching Aarthi when Devi reached home. She would normally not stop on seeing anyone in the garden, but she stopped that day hearing Anitha call her. She was wearing a gray tunic that reached just above her knees. Your wife is gorgeous Raghu, Aarthi commented as Devi reached them. Raghu introduced her to his friends. She wished them formally and joined them. Will I ever see you without a chocolate in your hand? Sirisha questioned her. Rarely, might be when I am sick, Devi replied smiling. She did not even finish replying that she took out one more chocolate from her hand bag. OMG! How many chocolates do you eat in a day? Do you stock them? Anitha exclaimed. Raghu took the rifle from Aarthis hand and continued shooting practice. He got the perfect aim with ease. Devi watched him with awe. Devi, try your hand once, Anitha suggested looking at Devi. Me! No, Devi refused.

Shooting is not like dancing in the air Anitha, Lavanya burst out laughing at her own comment. Devi, there is no competition happening here, even I tried my hand just now, Aarthi added. Devi is indifferent to all these Aarthi. She is not like you, she shows least interest in Raghus work and hobbies, Lavanya continued. Devi tried to maintain her calm. She did not want to create a scene in front of others. I have to practice for my concert. So I will take leave now, she said and got up. You better go to your right place, my brother here has won medals in shooting and his wife does not even know to hold a gun, Lavanya continued. Aarthi looked at Raghu frustrated. Raghu understood her intention; he too knew that Lavanya was crossing limits. Before he could react, Devi got up. Everyone thought that she was leaving, but she walked towards Raghu and extended her hand for the rifle. Raghu passed her the rifle and started to teach her the basics. He guided her to take a steady position and started to show the parts of the rifle, but felt like she was not paying attention. She stood firm resting the rifle hand guard on the heel of her hand and placed the butt of the rifle on her shoulder. Raghu watched her in awe as she placed her forefinger on the trigger. He understood that she was prepared. She had her body and rifle exactly in line with the aiming point. She focused her eye on the target and squeezed the trigger. She had fired with great comfort, the bullet exactly landing one inch away from the center. I missed, she said turning around disappointedly. But the others were looking at her in shock. You are trained, where did you learn? Raghu asked her surprised. Devi simply smiled at him. She turned towards Lavanya and said. Underrating others will not increase your value. Now, ask your brother to dance and sing like me. She took her handbag and left without waiting for a response. Raghu, I know your voice, so forget singing, but do you know to dance? Dinesh commented as everyone burst out laughing. Only Lavanya was annoyed, but Raghu was lost in thoughts. How does she know to shoot? Divya was frustrated. None of her things were in place, and she shouted, Mom! Where is my red t-shirt as she searched through her cupboard? With no response she came out and continued screaming, Mom! Help me find my shirt, I am getting late. You are old enough to arrange your things Divya, you are getting married soon, learn to take care of your things, Suseela shouted on her.

Divya finally found her shirt in one corner. Your mother wont enter your room as long as that devil is there, Kamalamma whispered in her ear when she came down. But she is not there now. Her mother, that witchs photo lies there on the table, dont you understand? Divya understood that her grandmother was referring to Devis parents photo. She realized that her mother did not enter her room from the time Devi entered the house. She quickly went back to her room and threw the photo in one corner. The glass frame broke into pieces. Sirisha and Gayathri were startled with this act. No one tells the devil about this. Do you understand? Divya commanded as she left the house. It was late in the evening, before Devi reached home, the elders had devised a plan, everyone convinced the maid to lie that the frame fell down by mistake and broke while she was mopping the floor. Gayathri however was skeptic about the idea, she called up Raghu and Pavan and told everything and asked them to come home immediately. The maid told as per the instructions to Devi with a shiver in her voice. Devi knew that something was wrong. She grabbed the maid by her hand and took her to the puja room. Promise in front of God and tell me you did this, she interrogated in a serious tone. The maid stood numb in front of her. Devi stormed into the hall and shouted. Who did this? No reply. Gayathri came near her and tried to convince her,Devi please let it go. I am asking for one last time, I want the person who did this in front of me. What will you do if you know? Remember your limits always and behave. You are acting like a judge of this house, Kamalamma countered back. Devi lost all her patience. She stormed out of the house into the garden and came out with an iron rod in hand. She started smashing all possible furniture in the hall- the dining table, crockery, glass showcase, everything. No one dared to go near her and stop her. Raghu as soon as he got off the jeep ran into the house hearing the loud noise. He grabbed the iron rod from Devis hand and forced her to the wall and screamed What the hell is happening here? You have no right to behave in this mad manner. Cant you talk about what happened before going crazy like this?

Devi was still shaky with anger. She tried to push Raghu away, but he would not let her go. He could feel her breathing heavily and trying to look away from him. Are you hearing to what I am saying? What you have done is totally wrong, it is insane I did what you would do if you were in my place. What should I do if not this? Should I go and break your mothers photo? I am sorry, but I cannot fall to such low demeanor. You are a sincere police officer right. You will punish everyone for their crime, big or small, irrespective of what they are. What justice will you do for others if you cannot justify inside your own house? Raghu freed her from his hold unable to utter a word. He knew what happened in the house was wrong. Devi ran upstairs and locked herself in her room instantaneously. Raghu saw Divya enter the house startled. I never thought you would turn so mean spirited, saying that he left the house. The house was a mess by the time Sankar Rao returned. Gayathri explained him the entire situation. He met Devi and tried to console her. I am sorry dear, I understand your anger, and I do not have any complaints about what you have done. Hi, I know it is odd timing, am I disturbing you guys, Raghu asked as he entered Dineshs house. When did you start behaving so formal? It does not suit you, Aarthi laughed as she lets Raghu in. Dinesh and Aarthi could understand he was upset, and were dismayed on knowing about the incident. It has been three weeks since she returned. It has been crazy since then, I dont know what to do, Raghu said as he accepted the glass of drink from Dinesh. What have you done till now Raghu? questioned Aarthi. He was silent. From what I understand, she left you due to some misunderstandings, and now she is back as she felt it is her responsibility. If no one back home is ready to accept her, it is their problem. Forget about others for a while and think about what you want to do. You are going to marry her soon, or if I put it in another way, she is already your wife, what are you doing for her in her bad times? Aarthi demanded. Raghu knew that she was right; he fell silent lost in his thoughts. Devis face occupied his mindsometimes beautiful, sometimes innocent, sometimes angry and sometimes sad. If I had not left her that day, he thought. But he wondered if things would have been anything better even then. He knew there was no use dwelling on past. Raghu came into Devis room the next day evening with a packet in his hand. He was floored on seeing Devi hanging a huge portrait of her parents on the wall while Divya and Anitha watched in dismay. He could not stop laughing. Devi turned back on seeing his laughter and stood there silently as he approached her and handed her a small gift packet. She looked at him questioningly.

Open it and see. At present though I think you dont need it anymore, he said with a smile. Devi took the packet from his hands passively and opened it to see her parents photo in a new frame. Her heart was filled with happiness, though she did not respond. Raghu understood. You are welcome, Raghu said with a grin and left the room. Good evening Uncle! Devi said as she entered the house and saw everyone sitting in the hall, it was a Sunday and almost everyone had stayed back home. How is your practice going on? When is the concert? Are we invited? Sankar Rao asked his niece as she sat down beside him eating her favorite chocolate. It is going on full swing uncle, it is exhausting though. Here, take the tickets, 300Rs. per ticket, said Devi and handed over a small ticket booklet. Should we also pay to see your performance dearthats bad. It is charity show uncleI am doing it to raise funds for the orphanageif you dont paythen I will have to pay from my pocket. What you are doing is great Devi. Keep it up. Tell something about your orphanage Devi. How come you continued staying there even after you started earning? Sirisha asked. I live there on my will Sirisha. Actually, I am myself running it now. Uncle and Aunt have become old to carry it alone on their shoulders. We have expanded the orphanage under the name of Jeevanjyoti foundation. There are more than 600 children there now. We even have rehabilitation homes for children and women rescued from human trafficking. We have more than 100 women there too. That would need a lot of money right? Now I understand why you are running around doing these concerts. You lead such a simple life. Have you ever saved anything for your future Prashant intervened. Devi kept quiet with a simple smile on her face. Raghu was watching her silently unaware of a sense of admiration growing in his heart for her. She need not save anything, we are there for her, Sankar Rao added. You both stay so busy in the name of work; Raghu here rarely sleeps nowadays in the name of work, always running behind criminals. You are engaged in your programs. Have you both ever considered marriage date is coming nearby? There is hardly one month left. Dont you want to start some purchasing for marriage? Kalavathi interjected. Thats true Devi. You seem so uninterested. Dont you want to buy saris and jewelry? My marriage is two months from now, and I have completed the entire shopping already. Anitha inquired.

Yeah, I have to, but I have no idea, never thought about all these. Devi replied. Sankar Rao went into his room and brought a bag out. You need not think about it Devi, I am there to take care of everything, saying that he handed over the bag to Devi. Devi took the bag puzzled and opened it. There were numerous jewelry sets and saris in it. She looked at him stupefied. Iwhats all this? Are these?? Devi did not have words. All these are for you. Every time we bought something for Anitha and Divya, I bought it for you too. Devi hugged him trying hard to stop her tears. She was never interested in costly jewelry and saris, she led a very austere life, but it was this love that she longed for always. Divya and Kamalamma looked over enviously. We will arrange for a grand wedding, I am planning everything, I know there is very less time, but I will stage the biggest wedding anyone had ever seen, Sankar rao said happily. No. Raghu and Devi said simultaneously. Why Raghu whats the problem? Sankar Rao questioned him. No problem Dad, Can we have a simple ceremony? I would prefer a simple marriage in my familys presence. Sankar Rao was about to say something when Devi interjected. I agree Uncle, I mean. Why to waste so much money in the name of the wedding? Sankar Rao fell silent; Uncle. Dont you think these two are so very like-minded. Perfect match, Anitha said as everyone burst laughing. Raghu smiled as Devi glared at Anitha angrily. Wont leave a single chance, she cursed. There is so much of love in this house, Pooja thought. She was only seventeen, but she was old enough to understand that her Dad unlike Sankar Uncle did not show his love anytime like this. He in fact despised his wife Yamuna and his son Karthik. She only knew that her mother was not as beautiful as him and neither was her brother. Only she was born with her father features and fair skin. But, she always wondered if that was the only reason for which he looked down on them. If that was the cause, why did he even marry my mother she always wondered? Devi was already getting late by the time she arrived for breakfast. She was wearing a sleeveless shirt and three quarter pants. You are getting married soondont you have some decent dresses to wear? Kamalamma said.

Devi was in no mood to argue; she ignored her comment and ate silently. I am talking to youyou better wear some traditional sari and look like proper Indian womendo you understand? Kamalamma said not giving up. Devi looked up to speak something, but kept silent as she saw her aunt Kalavathi sign her to stay quiet. We are getting late Madamothers have already reached and are waiting at the studio, Ramani informed Devi. Thats fine Ramani. Give me a few minutes. I will quickly change my dress and come. I will have to wear a sari from today, Devi said and went upstairs. Raghu was puzzled, from what he understood about Devi till now; he knew she would not give in so easily. He continued finishing his breakfast silently. Everyone was surprised when they saw Devi come down after sometime. She wore a light peach net sari with a sleeveless blouse baring her arms, back and thin waistline. She totally neglected their expressions and walked out. No one spoke out a word. Raghu also left behind her for his work. Kamalamma felt infuriated. Devi turned back as she sensed someone laughing. It was Raghu; he continued laughing looking at her as he passed by her side towards his vehicle. Devi felt very angry. She went near him and questioned. What are you laughing at? She looked as thought she was getting ready for a fight. Raghu came too close to her and put his hand around her waist and pulled her near before she could comprehend his move. You are looking damn sexy; I hope you have not forgotten your pepper spray today, he said. Before she could realize, he got into his vehicle and left. Devi quickly looked around if anyone saw what happened, there were security, gardeners and drivers, but everyone was busy in their work. Thank God she thought as she turned around and walked towards her vehicle. She saw Ramani mischievously smiling at her. She glared at her angrily. Her hands continued shaking as she settled in the car. The world blurred in front of her, she knew that there was an element of attraction getting established between them, but she did not anticipate such a bold move from him. She could still feel his warm hand on her waist; it felt like her entire body had heated up. He cannot behave like this to me, she thought, I have to talk to him. Raghus thoughts were clouded with Devi on his way to office. He felt somewhere in the corner of his heart that he should not have approached her that way. But he clearly knew that he acted in an impulse. He wanted to get closer to her. His conscious however questioned him if he truly loved her to make such a move, he was only trying to establish a relationship with her, make their marriage work. But, true love he questioned himself if he sincerely loved her. Moreover, I have to understand her feelings, he thought, I have to talk to her.

Dinesh and Shivaram walked into Raghus office. Their expressions were clear enough that they had some big news. They had intercepted some crucial calls in the last two days. There was enough information available to conclude that there was a major arms exchange operation planned for tonight in two major locations in the city. A foundation was being laid to bomb major locations in the city after two weeks. Intelligence intercepted almost all the targets, two temples, three malls, a bus and a market area. Well trained personnel, estimated around 25 people, were gathering tonight at two distinctive locations in the old city for final planning. It is happening tonight, what were you guys doing till now Shiva? Raghu could not hide the irritation in his voice. It was hard to intercept the messages Raghu, even now, we know coordinates of only one location exactly, we are still not sure about the other, but it is for sure that the meet will be happening tonight. We have got some important leads. Shiva replied. Raghu contemplated on the plan. With little time left, he knew that it was high time, they plan to attack. Nevertheless, he was skeptic about the loose ends. He knew that the infamous terrorist leader Mohammad Saifuddin was the mastermind behind the attacks. Raghu did not want to miss any small chance to grab him. He quickly drew out the entire plan, gathered and formed his crucial team, a team of four sub inspectors, eight constables and his friends. They made a quick invoice of all the arms and ammunition. Raghu could not stop cursing the inefficient system when he saw that there were not enough bulletproof vests. He had enough trust in his team to carry out the task in hand, he had gathered this team after examining for six months, the most efficient personnel in the department. He alerted his backup team to stay alert. He wanted to call for them only on need; They had to execute this discreetly avoiding all the media glare lest everything would go wrong. There are no chances for mistakes. He reiterated to his team. Devi reached home and had her dinner. I have to talk to him clearly today. She thought. She controlled the urge to call him once. Nonetheless, she had waited enough. She went to bed after waiting till 10 PM. It was night 9 o'clock by the time Raghus team arrived in mufti and surrounded the place. A lady constable dressed as a bangle seller was sent into the intercepted building. She spent an odd hour roaming around 4 floors in that old building, knocking at each door, in the name of selling bangles. House #31 in the third floor, I could see four men, looks like there are more inside, she reported. The team slowly reached the third floor using the backstairs while two constables stood watching standing by the upstairs entrance and lift. Raghu and Dinesh burst into the apartment and opened fire without giving a chance for the terrorists to realize what was happening. Three of them who were in the next bedroom tried to escape from the backdoor but were trapped by Shivaram and three other

constables guarding there. The firing lasted for only ten minutes, the terrorists with no way to go had to surrender. There were ten of them, 4 dead, 3 badly injured and 3 alive. Raghu quickly inspected the flat. Mohammad Saifuddin was not there as doubted. He might be at the second location Raghu thought in his mind. He quickly made his plan. He aimed his gun at one terrorist lying on the floor, where is Saifuddin? he asked. The terrorist did not make a move nor did he answer. Name the second location; you have only 30 seconds to answer? Raghu yelled. His team started gathering all the arms and ammunition in the flat. Raghu shot the terrorist in his right knee cap. The second location? he iterated. With no answer, he shot him in the left knee cap, his right arm, then left arm leaving a gap of ten seconds between every firing. With no answer, he finally shot him point-blank between his brows. Blood oozed from his head. Raghu aimed at the second terrorist, while the others watched silently. He continued the same routine; the terrorists knew that there was no other go. They will be killed like this one by one. The third terrorist trembling from head to toe with fear spoke out, house #12 in the second street behind bangle bazaar. Raghu quickly broadcasted to his backup team and stormed out to the second location. Firing had already been started by the time he reached. He lost the element of surprise he cursed. The shooting continued for twenty minutes. It was a crowded market place. All the people ran into their houses and shops and locked themselves inside in minutes. It was after twenty minutes when his team could break open a window and enter into the house. TV sets, windows and doors were blown into pieces. Almost 200 rounds of ammo were fired. Raghu and his team knew that the people inside whom they are dealing with were cold blooded. They would have undergone well advanced combat trainings and would not give up. But Raghus team was also well formed, the firing continued for another thirty minutes as his team started encroaching room by room trapping all the terrorists in a corner bathroom. With no way to escape, all of them were shot dead in the next ten minutes. They thought it was almost over when a terrorist lunged from the next room aiming at sub inspector next to Raghu. Before the sub inspector anticipated this move, Raghu pushed him aside taking the bullet himself and fell down on the floor in a pool of blood. Dinesh quickly ran towards Raghu and turned him up to see blood oozing out from between his ribs. He quickly carried him to the jeep into hospital. It was almost mid night.

Devi woke up early in the morning; she had to catch her early morning flight to Chennai, as she had some important people to invite personally for the concert. She informed Kalavathi who was awake by then and left home without having breakfast. Pavan woke up when his mobile went abuzz early in the morning. It was Shivaram. Why does he call at this time? Pavan thought as he answered the call. Raghu is shot. What? Pavan exclaimed as he rubbed his eyes. Gayathri too woke up hearing his loud voice. Raghu is shot, we had a major covert operation last night, he is shot, come to city hospital immediately. I will explain everything, he said in a trembling voice. The entire house was awake in the next five minutes. Everyone reached hospital. Kalavathi almost fainted on hearing the bad news. He got a bullet right near his heart. His condition is very serious, and the doctors are operating. Dinesh told them. The entire media went live in the next one hour with News channels continuously flashing all possible information about the latest operation. Media had completely rounded up the hospital. DGP Prakash Mishra had to arrange for a press meet at the hospital gate itself. He gave a brief picture to the media. 19 terrorists were killed and four are arrested. We have recovered 20kg of RDX, five detonators, three machine guns, five AK-47s, 250 live cartridges. Terrorist Mohammad Saifuddin had escaped. DCP Raghus condition remains critical. He announced. The terrorists were targeting two temples, three malls, a bus and a market area. We have recovered some maps, cell phones and SIM cards. Further investigation is in progress. He added. The next 24 hours had been the worst moments for Raos family. The doctors had operated on Raghu, but they said that his condition remains critical for the next 24 hours. Anitha tried calling Devi, but could not reach her. Devi made hurried visits to various people in Chennai to invite for the concert. It was night by the time she reached her hotel room exhausted; her mobile phone was in silent mode all the time. She was too tired to answer any calls or read over messages. Had she looked at her phone once, she would have known about Raghu. As she woke up in the morning and got ready for her return trip, she went through her messages. She felt the ground shaking under her, her feet numb; she gathered all her strength and ran out of the hotel into the taxi heading towards the airport. Travel from hotel to airport to hospital felt like ages for her. She bursts out crying in the plane restroom. By the time she entered hospital ICU, Raghu was conscious, out of danger, talking to the family. Everyone was standing silently trying hard to control their pain. As soon as Devi entered, Anitha hugged her and started crying. Devi tried hard to stop her tears. Hi Raghu, how are you now?

He responded with a feeble smile. Tulsamma could not stop her emotions and burst out crying and Kalavathi too joined her. I told you a thousand times to be careful, how do you expect us to live if something happened to you. Devi wanted to somehow handle the situation and play strong. Dont you worry Aunt. Raghu is very brave and fearless, you know like that bond 007. Nothing will happen to him, she said to cheer up everyone. and incidents like these are common in police officers life, stop worrying. She laughed. You are talking as if you studied in and out of police. Dont give unnecessary assurances and talk about matters you are ignorant about Kamalamma shouted. I was just trying to console Aunt, why are you taking it personally? I am taking it personally? You walk in here after a day totally unconcerned about what happened. Is this the way a responsible wife reacts? And you are telling that I am taking it personally. Enough grandmother! I did not know what had happenedmy mobile was switched offHad I known Stop it!! shouted Suseela trying hard to control her temper. Look! We are in a very troubled situation. My son here is seriously unwell. So, please leave us peacefully. We do not want to know what you were doing, where you were roaming or why you could not come. We care a damn about your excuses. Just leave us alone. She shouted. Devis blood was boiling with anger. She had tried hard to suppress her emotions and wanted to comfort the family. She understood that this family would not entertain any of her efforts as she saw them standing silently. She stormed out of the room. Raghu saw her tightly closed fist, her puffed eyes filled with tears. He knew that situations worsened more. Nonetheless, he was not in a situation to talk or react. His mind was filled with many other vital questions. He had a discussion with his friends after sometime. They all had understood that they missed Saifuddin at the second location because they missed the element of surprise. Nevertheless, they had increased and alerted the security in the entire city- in all bus stations, train stations and airports and were monitoring all the exits. They surely suspected that he was still hiding somewhere within the city and were searching everywhere. Raghu got calls from many higher officials and ministers inquiring about his health and congratulating him. They were all happy, because he had successfully averted a major bombing attack, but he was unhappy. He was not satisfied, they missed the mastermind, and he cursed.

Devi did not attempt to visit Raghu after that day. She wanted to divert her mind totally; she started working day and nights for the concert. She lost contact with all the family members neither did they try to talk to her. She did not talk to Raghu when he got discharged and returned home after a week. Sankar Rao on one fine day called her to his room. Raghuramiah, Tulsamma and Kalavathi were also present. Your behavior is wrong Devi. You are getting married. You have to show some adjustment and change from your end, Tulsamma remarked. I am ready to adjust Grandma, but not at the cost of my self-respect, Devi replied. What are your plans for your married life then? How will you fulfil your marriage if continue living like this? Fulfilling marriage is not my sole responsibility, even others should feel it. It was a time of sorrow for the family. And you know people were just troubled with your careless remarks. Sankar rao said. My remarks were not careless Uncle, I spoke what I felt, if others misinterpret my remarks, it is a problem with their understanding. But you talked as if you were not at all concerned. Tell me truly, do you really care for Raghu. Inone of you will understand whatever I say. Raghu has this entire family around who cares. I have important concert coming up and I am leading my life all alone. Please let me go. Saying this Devi left the room. Kamalamma knew that they had some discussion. She met up with them after sometime and talked. You are planning to get that girl married to my grandson. She cares the least about him. And everything is going sour in his life from the time she entered. There are hardly two weeks left for marriage and he almost loses his life. Sankar Rao got impatient seeing her in-law mix up things but stayed quiet when Raghuramiah signaled to stay quiet. He asked his son to call swamiji over the phone. Raghuramiah spoke with swamiji with speakers on while all the elders listened. I came to know about the incident Raghuramiah. It is a time of sorrow for your family. Dont worry. Situations will definitely turn good, he said. The marriage is after two weeks and such incidents, do you think there is anything bad with this marriage swamiji, do you suggest looking at the horoscopes once again, maybe we have to adjust the marriage dates, Raghuramiah expressed his concern. Your son is already married Raghuramiah, this bond will only bind the evil spirits. Do not worry. God will take care of your children. Just ask them to be careful.

Thank you Swamiji. You know Raghu, he does not pay heed to us whatever we say. I am not talking about Raghu. I am talking about Devi. Coming days are not good for her. Take care of her. She is the one to give the next heir of your family and needs to be taken care. Thanks Swamiji. Sankar Rao disconnected the call. Kamalamma maintained silence. She knew she did not have any chance to talk. Everyone was confused. What problems can Devi have? Giri and Anil had come home to visit Raghu. All of them were sitting on the terrace chitchatting when Devi walked in. She was totally avoiding the family. However, she did not feel right to escape when they had come. Hi Giri..Hi Anil, she said as Giri offered a chair for her to sit. She saw that Raghu was not there, he might be resting in his room, she thought. She thought that she will get to see him once. How are your concert preparations going on? We are all eagerly waiting for the show. You might be disturbed, I understand Anil asked. Dont you worry Anil? She does not have any sad feeling for Raghu like you imagined. She is happily leading her life, Lavanya retorted. It is not like that Lavanya, you got it wrong, Anitha tried to interject. No, she is speaking correct. I am not concerned. She is true. Now, please excuse me. I have some important work to catch up, said Devi as she got up to leave. Wait Devi. Stop being so rude, I have been watching you from days and had enough of this. Dont you have a bit of remorse? You are being casual about that day, you did not even care to greet Raghu once. How can you be so difficult? Do you care the least for Raghu? Anitha reprimanded. I dont care. Ok. Are you happy with my answer now? I dont care for him, whatever he does, whatever happens. Do you get that clear? In fact, let me be frank this time, one last time, I hate him, Devi screamed and turned back to leave when she saw Raghu standing behind. He grabbed her by her shoulder and dragged her into his room and locked the door. He pinned her to the wall with all this strength. I had enough. Let us get things clear right here, right now. Why do you hate me so much? What have I done to you to deserve such hatred? Devi tried to push him aside hard. You are not going anywhere today without answering my questions.

You left me. Devi shouted. I did not leave you dammit!! I did not leave you. I clearly wrote in the letter that I will come back. You did not understand my situation. What situation Raghu? You left me the next day after marriage without even feeling the obligation to talk to me once. I am responsible enough Devi. Thats why I married you. I married you in front of Grandma on her deathbed. It was a question of my ambitions, my dreams. I had my police service exam after three days. Not taking it would ruin all my ambitions. Everyone at home was in deep sorrow. Thats why I had to write a letter and leave. I clearly wrote in the letter that I will come back after my exam. You also wrote that you were not ready for marriage responsibility, did you forget that?' 'I said that I was not ready then, to take it up immediately. I had to focus on becoming a police officer. That was the only ambition I had in my life. Yes, I understood that everything was about your Dreams and your ambitions. There was no place for me in your life. It was nice you left. I woke up. Two years, I gave up all my dreams for the sake of family. But, when you left, I understood what I had to do. I dont have any regrets. You misunderstood Devi, I just needed more time. I clearly wrote that I will assume this relationship after five years in the letter. I misunderstood? When did you ever talk to me for me to understand? Did you write the letter to me or talk to me once before leaving? You could have told me once about your feelings; I would have understood and waited for you for years. But dont worry Raghu, I can never hate you, no matter what you do. You saved me onceyou saved me from.I can never hate or wish bad for you. But apart from that there is nothing between Us. Please, let me go. Raghu let her go. You were only 16 then. Grandma had died. You were in deep grief. I did not expect you to understand anything in that situation. He said as Devi left the room. Raghu slept in his room silently thinking, if things can ever be corrected between them. I loved him so much and trusted him. How can I ever forget and forgive? Devi thought lying on bed. She remembered all that had happened. The house was a mess after Raghu left that day. Raghuramiah was very angry when he read Raghus letter addressing him. But Suseela and Kamalamma took a different stance. They blamed Devi for everything. They complained that she did not match Raghu and his life will only be ruined if Raghu had to spend his entire life with her. Devi felt like she had no place in this family. She was affected deeply. She had been staying there from two years keeping aside all her dreams.

Lakshmi Devi brought Devi with her after Devis parents died in a car crash. Raghuramiah was very dissatisfied with her move. No one in the family loved her. Raghuramiah disliked music and arts totally and Devi understood the reason behind soon. Her mother was a talented singer and her father was choreographer in movies. That is how they came together. Raghuramiah totally abandoned music after Devis mother Jyoti left home. Devis parents however brought her up totally in a musical culture. She started singing and dancing at the age of three. Dreams turned into nightmares immediately after their death. With no love and dreams, the only reason she stayed back in the house, was because of her Grandmas love. Her Grandma tried hard to make her a part of the family; slowly everyone became closer to her except Sankar raos family. Raghu was very friendly with Devi unlike his sisters, he did not like the fact that her presence was spoiling family atmosphere, but he could not hold her responsible. He sympathized her loss and tried to cheer her up always. They landed up being good friends. His grandma however had a different idea in her mind. He felt for sure in her mind, it was only Raghu who could help Devi in this home and support her forever, even after her death. He had to marry her to abide to his Grandmas last wish. But when Raghu left the next day after marriage itself, Devi was heartbroken; she decided to leave writing a letter. GrandpaI, like Raghu, also want to fulfill my dreams. If you treat both of us equally, then I hope you can excuse me too. I will come back after ten years to fulfill grandmas wish. I assure you I will not come back with any expectations. If Raghu decides to take a different path and this family cannot accept me, I will leave without any complaints. I promise. But do not try to search for me or bring me back without my acceptance. I will kill myself. I promise. She left to come back only after ten years. She understood that nothing had changed in ten years. All the family members continue to have the same feelings about her except Raghu. Raghu clearly desired to fulfill the marriage. She understood. Nonetheless, she doubted if he will ever love her the way she wanted. The next two days passed calmly. All the elders of the house went to village to discuss and finalize marriage arrangements. They decided to accomplish the marriage ceremony in the village temple in a simple ritual as Raghu and Devi insisted. They were also worried about Raghus recovery and did not want to strain him with a grand wedding. One fine morning, Raghu was climbing downstairs into the hall; the maid mopping the floor accidentally spilled all the water from upstairs, with all the water falling on Raghu. His bandage got wet. The maid was horrified with what happened. There was no one at home except Devi. She called her for help with no idea on what to do. Raghu had gone into his room and took off his shirt and was trying to dry the bandage with a towel. The bandage is totally wet, you will have to change it, otherwise the wound will be infected, Devi said as she entered the room. She took the medicine box and started to cut the bandage. I will manage, Raghu said as he tried to take scissors from her hand.

She continued her work as if she did not hear him. The wound had healed a little, but she could still make out how intense and worse it was. She felt a deep sense of pain. Her hands trembled unknowingly as she applied ointment and tied fresh bandage around him. Raghu could feel her warm breath on his chest. He felt that her soft hands were trembling as she fastened the bandage. She quickly bandaged and started to leave when Raghu stopped her. He turned her around to face him. Are you crying? he asked looking into her eyes. No, I am not. You are Raghu insisted. I have never seen such an injury before. I was just dismayed. Let me go. She left. Raghu would not believe so easily. Devi left early on the day of the concert. She contemplated if she has to take blessings of the elders at home, but dropped the idea. She did not want to spoil her mood with any negative response, so she left home quietly. Sankar Rao briefly talked about Devis concert during breakfast. I personally insist that everyone attends the concert in the evening to support Devi. I do not want any arguments in this front. Especially you Raghu, he said and left for work. Devi was very glad to see the entire family attend the concert. Everyone except Kamalamma and Suseela came over. Kamalamma said that she was feeling sick and Suseela excused herself to take care of her mother. Lavanya and Divya were compelled, as both of their families, especially Giri, enthusiastically attended. The concert was a grand success. Devi was very happy to see the entire family present irrespective of the happenings of the past few days. Devis performance was enchanting. Audiences were awestruck by her introductory song and dance performances. Few other singers also had joined her supporting her cause. Raghu went backstage to congratulate her once. Ramani showed him to Devis green room. Devi was preoccupied trying to tie her back lace when Raghu entered. Devi assuming Ramani came in called out, Ramani, help me with this lace, quick. Raghu quietly came behind her and tied her lace. Devi feeling his fingers turned around to see Raghu and startled. Dont be nervous. I just walked into talk to you. You were great on stage, lovely as usual. Bye.

Devis stage presence and performances for awesome, she performed in the event with great strength and energy. The event showcased an ensemble of talented playback singers and renowned musicians performing along with Devi. The activities and programs included child labor awareness program and fundraising programs for orphanage. The family for the first time came to know her fame directly. They were all delighted. The most important fact that impressed Raghu was that she was so simple and grounded irrespective of her fame. Devi was not ignorant of the fact that Raghu was trying to get closer to her. She was unable to make up her mind on what she has to do with her future. The entire family left for the village three days after her performance. There were only three days left before her marriage. The entire house was hustling with marriage arrangements. It turned out to be a village celebration. Raghu knew that Devi had compromised with the circumstances like him, but the misunderstandings between them were what he was concerned about. He wanted to do his best to befriend her. He searched for her in the entire house, but could not find her anywhere in the house. Prasanna said that she saw Devi heading towards the garden. He saw her silently sitting near her grandmas grave. He went and sat silently beside her. I know it is difficult for you to forget what happened in the past. But, I can only ask you to live in the present and help us both live peacefully. We can be good friends at least like before. He saidd. Devi looked at him with a melancholic smile. It was very tough for her. She never saw him as his friend. From the time she had known him, she had always loved him. The only person who understood her feelings was resting in the grave. The wedding was carried out peacefully the next day. Close relatives and villagers attended the wedding that happened in the Sri Ram temple in the village. Only Satyam uncle and Asha aunt attended from Devis side. Devi and Raghu stayed calm and neutral during the ceremony. Devi however grew intolerably nervous as night approached. It was the first time in her life when she was going to spend her time with Raghu alone. The very thought made her uneasy. He said that we can be good friends she tried to relax herself. However,, she remembered the past events-the moments when he touched her and tried to get closer to her. Moreover her cousins did not leave a single chance to pull her leg while in the room until he entered the room. She fell silent when they were left alone. She tried her best to conceal her anxiety. She slowly got up from bed, changed into a night suit and slept on one edge of the bed. Raghu was laughing within himself; he felt amused seeing her hard efforts to conceal her anxiety. He came on the bed very close to her lying by her side and whispered in her ear, dont be so nervous dear. I will not approach you without your acceptance. Sleep peacefully.

Devi felt a bit relaxed. And by the way dont get me wrong if I touch your hand, legs or waistyou know while sleeping by mistake. Devi understood he was teasing her and slept quietly. Everyone returned to Hyderabad two days after the wedding. There were no honeymoon plans as Raghu was still recovering and had to avoid travel. The couple was however busy the next few days visiting relatives and friends. One day when they had returned back home after having dinner at Dineshs house. Devi saw that Ramani was waiting for her. What are you doing here? Have you not gone to orphanage? I am waiting for you Madam. Sindhu is not well since yesterday; she is not eating properly and not having medicines in your absence. I have brought her along so that you can convince her. She is sleeping in the car. Devi quickly went and opened the car door and took Sindhu in her arms. Raghu was watching keenly as Devi cuddled the three year old girl in her hands. Can I bring her inside home if you dont mind? she asked Raghu. Of course, you can. Anyway it is cold outside here. Devi carried the girl into their room and fed her some food and gave her medicines. Raghu could see that the girl was not leaving Devi for a single moment. Looks like she loves you a lot? He said. Yes. When I was at the orphanage, she always used to stay at my side, she is very near to me. Devi replied with a smile. Sindhu.go home along with Ramani Aunt and sleep well. I will come early in the morning tomorrow to see you. We will play together. She told the girl. Sindhu would not leave her and started to cry. It is late in the night and she seems to be really unwell. Let her stay here for tonight. Raghu suggested. Devi was very happy, but at the same time she was skeptic about the idea. She finally decided and asked Ramani to leave and come in the morning. Devi put Sindhu to sleep and saw that Raghu was staring at her. Why are you looking like that?

You know you always puzzle me? How can one person be so sensitive, stubborn and mad? Sometimes what you are depends more on who you are dealing with rather than yourself. Devi replied with a smile and went to sleep. Raghu, however, continued watching her and the girl sleeping beside her. The girl had a lovely face, but at the same time, she was looking very weak, might be because of fever, he thought. The next day morning the family was surprised to see Devi come downstairs to the dining table along with a small girl. Who is this girl Devi? Kalavathi asked her. Aunt, her name is Sindhu, she lives in the orphanage, and she is not keeping well and was crying for me yesterday. Raghu let her stay with us yesterday night. Devi clarified. She felt Kamalamma murmur something in her daughters ears but kept quiet. Devi after breakfast was giving some medicines to Sindhu when Gayathris eyes fell upon the medicines. She picked them in her hands and looked at Devi shocked. Deviwhat are these medicines you are giving to the small girl? You are a doctor. Of course, you know what they are for? Devi answered. Is the girl HIV positive? Devi simply nodded her head while everyone looked at her puzzled. How can such a small girl have AIDS? Sirisha asked with a surprised look. This is also one part of the real world. She got infected. Devi was explaining further when Kamalamma started shouting out loud. How dare you bring an AIDS patient home? Dont you have the least common sense? There are small children and others living at home. Did you not use your brain before acting this way? Devis face flushed with anger. She started to speak something and stopped when she heard Raghus voice from behind. Raghu as he descended the stairs had heard the entire conversation. Enough Grandma! How can you talk about a tiny girl like this? What happened to you? What happened to me? God forbid! If she will pass that disease to others.Just keep her away right now from my children. Take her out of this house. Devi wondered how a matured person in todays world could think so low. More than Devi, Raghu was agitated.

He quickly took Sindhu into his arms from Devi as Kamalamma watched with shock. She is a small girl like any other child in this house. She deserves the love and respect like anyone else here. It is better you and everyone else understands this clearly. If you cannot love her like you child, fine. But dont discriminate like this. Everyone in the house knew Raghus character. Even they were in agreement with his opinion. They silently continued with their breakfast while Kamalamma left into her room dumbstruck. How did she get infected? Were her parents HIV positive? Anitha asked as Devi started to leave with Sindhu. Devi was mute for a moment. Discussing such matters had become habitual for her, as she managed the rehab home, but she had never openly spoke with her family till now. She knew that she had to disclose matters one way or the other. There is no right time than now, she convinced herself. No, she got infected when she was raped two years back. Devi replied in a very normal tone. Such a small girl! How can anyone Sirisha exclaimed as the entire family sat there numb. As I saidthis is one part of the real world. There are many girls like this in the rehab. Devi replied and took leave. Raghu felt a strong sense of admiration for Devi in his heart. He recalled the incident that had happened ten years back, he had never talked about it with Devi, but today when he saw the way Devi dealt with the matter, he felt a strong sense of respect for her. Surely, she has changed, she is not the old timid girl, he thought. Raghu started getting back to work slowly spending fewer hours at work, lest his mother would not even allow him to go to work. Devi, however, immersed herself into work; she was almost missing at home. She had shifted into his room, but he was seeing her lesser than before. Raghu doubted if she was intentionally avoiding him. Moreover, it was becoming difficult to arrange and take care of his things. He expected that his mother would not enter his room after marriage and prepared his mind for it. Nonetheless,, he was not in the habit of arranging his dresses and belongings. Getting ready to work regularly also was becoming tedious for him. It was late in the afternoon on Saturday when a minor girl named Rani was brought inside Jeevanjyoti rehabilitation home. She had already spent three days under medical supervision and had started interacting with others. Malini, the home supervisor, had visited the girl regularly when she was in the hospital and the girl slowly developed a trust on her. The girl finally opened up and started giving information to Malini. Malini was alarmed. This information was unlike others, and it was a revelation. She quickly called for a rescue team meeting and the team devised a plan. The team was proficient in conducting rescue operations; they had always had such encounters, wherein one rescue would give information leading to the other. Nevertheless, the team judged very well that this was very big. Rani informed that she along with another twenty minor girls, kidnapped from various places, was locked in a small building on the outskirts of the city. She said that the traffickers were discussing about

transporting them to Dubai on Sunday. Only Ranis passport could not be done due to some problems, so, they had sold her off to a local brothel from where she was rescued. The rescue team understood that they had very less time left. Based on the coordinates she gave they could track the building location. Sending decoy customers was ruled out as the traffickers were not interested in local business; they were selling off the girls. The team finalized on the last option and started off. It was a two-storey building in the city outskirts. The building was surrounded by trees and bushes concealing it from the highway 2km ahead. Three guards were guarding the building trying hard to not fall asleep. It was midnight when a red van came to a halt near the bushes little far from the building. Before the men could get a close look at the van in the dark night, two men opened the van door and threw two women out the van and sped fast. Two of the guards came running fast towards the bushes, to see two women in a battered state lying on the ground. One of them was conscious. She mumbled Help me!! and collapsed. The guards carried the women inside the building and lay them on the floor in an empty room and closed the door from behind. The women quickly got up and started listening. Who are they? Why did you bring them inside? someone was shouting. Looks like someone raped them and threw them. One of the guards replied. Sothey land up in the right place.let them be there. We will see what can be done with them tomorrow. The women sat still in the room for a while until everything was silent. They quickly got up and started their work. One woman slowly walked upstairs and started inspecting room by room while the other woman carried out the job downstairs. The woman in the downstairs was appalled when she saw girls, many of them, locked up in one small room. She quickly retrieved a cell phone hidden under her clothes and pressed the speed dial button. 'The rescue team will be here soon,' she thought and quietly left into the room where she was locked. She also messaged the other woman to come back. The woman in the upstairs got the message, she was about to leave downstairs, when she heard some men in a room. She could see them from the window that was slightly open. She placed her mobile phone camera near the opening and started filming. She moved to the next room and saw that the door was ajar. Two men were standing near the bed while the other man was forcing a girl on the bed, with his back towards the door. The womans heart filled with rage. The team will arrive anytime, she thought and started to move. But she stopped short on seeing an iron rod in the hand of one man. She guessed what was to happen next and was shaken. I have to wait a few more minutes she tried to convince herself. But as the girl squealed in pain, she could not stop herself anymore. She retrieved the small revolver she had hidden in her clothes and quickly entered the room and said, Move away and keep quiet or I will The men were shocked with this sudden event. They were trembling; they were hardly twenty years old. One of them quickly gained their sense and threw the iron rod at her, the woman was alert, and she quickly moved aside and shot on his kneecap. The entire building woke up to the abrupt sound. The woman understood that she had to run.

I need not worry about the girls, the team will arrive anytime, she thought and quickly ran down the stairs. Five guards came opposite to her, but stopped on seeing the gun in her hand. The other woman in the room in downstairs came out sensing the trouble. The woman shot at two of the men quickly, but a third man knocked the gun from her hand with a rod. The women had to fight with five of the men alone. As they fought, the woman could see that the men she saw with the girl ran out towards a car parked outside and escaped. After a few moments, she also saw that few more men came downstairs, but did not make any attempt to fight, but instead ran out and escaped in one another vehicle. The woman as she fought the guards wondered, but quickly realized, they know they are cornered, and just bothered to escape. It was becoming difficult for the women to handle five guards all alone, when the place went abuzz with the siren sound. The five guards got an alert on hearing the sound, one of the guards however in an attempt to free himself stabbed the woman who had the gun in her stomach. Three of the guards ran towards the back gate and escaped while the other two were caught. The second woman ran towards the principal woman as she collapsed on the floor. The woman handed over her mobile phone and asked to hide it as she closed her eyes. It was around 4:00 a.m. Raghu was fast asleep when his phone rang. He opened his eyes and reached for the phone. He grabbed the phone and answered groggily, Hello, knowing that it was an unknown number. Sirits me Ramani. She spoke at the other end of the line in a shaky voice. Ramani? Sir, come quickly to the city hospital. Madam is in danger., she continued in a braking voice. Raghu could not understand. What? What are you saying? What happened to Devi? he jumped and got down from the bed as he spoke. Come to hospital quickly Sir, I will explain everything. Please. Raghu was thoroughly confused as many thoughts crossed his mind. He wondered if she met with an accident or anything. He quickly dashed downstairs and woke up the constable sleeping in the jeep and ordered, City Hospital, quick! Raghu could see that Ramani, Satyam uncle and Asha Aunt were standing outside the operation theatre. There were two more women, a sub inspector and three constables along with them. Raghus heart raced on seeing them, wondering if Devi really met with some accident as he suspected. What happened to Devi he asked as he approached them. Ramani was choking for words; she could not speak anything as she burst out crying.

It is our fault; we should not have agreed. We should not have let Madam go there. Some other woman spoke out as she tried hard to control self. Raghu was getting irritated. Will anyone tell me what happened? he shouted. Sir, I will explain everything, my name is Mallickarjun, I work in Hyderabad south zone police station the sub inspector started. Madam was stabbed during a rescue operation. She along with Malini went on a rescue operation. They were supposed to alert us after inspecting the place, but Madam could not restrain herself, by the time we reached, she was stabbed. What? I dont understand. Why should Devi go on any rescue operation? She just manages orphanage. The sub inspector could not explain as he himself wondered that Raghu was unaware of Devis affairs. Satyam finally spoke out. Raghu, Devi had wanted to tell you and your family about this from a long time. But, she always backed off. She was skeptic on how you would receive and understand this. Devi runs rescue operations; she has been working against sex trafficking from past six years. I know this matter came to light in a wrong way, but I hope you understand, she never intended to hide it from you. Raghu slumped on a chair, trying to still digest the information. He felt like waking up from a dream. He sat there motionless and got up only when the operation theatre door opened. She lost a lot of blood. We have operated on her. We have to wait and watch for the next 24 hours. Raghu walked into the ICU in a trance. He felt like he was seeing a stranger when he saw Devi unconscious on the hospital bed. He quietly sat next to her as his thoughts drifted to their past, the most bitter event that occurred in their past eleven years back. He was heading back home in the outskirts of his village when he heard a girl screaming for help in the adjoining fields. He quickly ran there to help, but was shocked when he saw that, it was Devi. Three men had surrounded her and were forcing her. He fought fiercely with them and beat them up. The men got scared and escaped. He quickly took Devi back home and explained the matter to his grandparents. His grandpa sent him back along with few other workers to search for the men, but they could not be found. They were surely outsiders as no one had ever seen them in the village or in the neighborhood villages. The elders decided to bury the matter and strictly advised Raghu and Devi also to do the same. Devi was devastated. I did not do anything wrong. I dont even understand what happened. Why are you asking me to keep quiet, she cried. Raghu also had the same question in his mind.

You will have to deal with peoples questions even when you did nothing wrong. I assure you, when you think that you are capable enough to deal with such questions by yourself, no one will stop you from raising voice. Lakshmi Devi explained. Devi had drifted into muteness for many days. It was during those days that Raghu grew very close to her in an attempt to console her. He became her best friend. However, little did he know about the love that developed in her heart for him. Raghus thoughts were disturbed when the others walked into the ICU. Dont worry Raghu, nothing will happen to her, I know her, she is a fighter, she will not give in so easily, Satyam tried to console Raghu putting his hand on Raghus shoulder. Around twenty girls were rescued. They are all admitted here on the ground floor. We will have to go and talk to them. We will come back after sometime. Saying this, they left the room. Only Raghu and Ramani were left in the room. How did she get involved? When did she get into all these? Raghu questioned Ramani. She was still sobbing. It started with me Sir. I met Madam in a train six years back. My husband was bringing me to Hyderabad to sell me in a brothel. He had already used me for two years to make me and was not satisfied. Madam on hearing my story promised to help me. We escaped when the train stopped at a station and my husband was fast asleep. She took me to the rehab home run by Sumitra Madam, DGP Purushottam Sirs wife. There she came to know more about the world of human trafficking and expressed interest to work along. But none of us knew then that, she will make this work a mission of her life. I have stayed by her side ever since. She works restless managing her singing career and the anti-trafficking work. None of us could understand why she turned one accidental encounter in her life into a mission. Raghu kept quiet. He knew the answer. I will be outside Sir. Ramani said and left the room. Raghu watched Devi intently. He was awestruck by her strength and her fighting spirit. He took her palm into his hands and kissed lightly. He understood crystal clear that, she was the one for his life, the one who always stays by your side, the one person without whom your life will always be incomplete. I love you. I promise you. I will never let you suffer alone ever again. Not until I am alive. You just stay alive. Please. For me. In many years of his service, he had seen many deaths, he himself had faced death, but he never felt so weak in his entire life. He called his father early in the morning and explained everything. He asked him to let the family know about Devi carefully. The family members were dismayed on hearing the news. They reached the hospital in no time and were devastated on seeing Devis condition. Whatever they were hearing did not make any sense; they could not come to terms with the news. No one had the courage to call Raghuramiah back home and inform him. Prashant finally called up his father and

detailed to him on Devis condition. It was late evening by the time the elders from the village reached the hospital. Swamijis words were ringing in Raghuramiahs ears. He cursed himself for not understanding the indication. All of them waited there praying God to keep Devi alive. No one could think of moving an inch away from the ICU. Ramani was getting calls continuously from various members of the music industry. Many of her associates, a lot of them unaware of Devis other works, took the news with a shock. It was late in the night when Raghu sensed a movement in Devi. She curled her toes and tried to move her fingers. He could see her nostrils flare as she slightly opened her eyes. Raghus face lit up with happiness as she gained consciousness. She was moving her arms and tried hard to speak, but could not, she just smiled weakly at her family and friends and went back to sleep. She completely gained consciousness the next day morning. She insisted that she was fine and asked everyone to take rest. Everyone except Raghu and Anitha left for home. She could see Raghu sitting silently without uttering a word and Anitha staring at her with tears in her eyes. I am fine. I am sorry. I should have told you guys. Are you angry? Raghu looked away trying hard to conceal his emotions. Anitha however would not stay quiet. Angry, yes I am very angry with you, I hate you. I always thought of you as my best friend, but today I understood you dont feel so. Devi smiled weakly and extended her hand asking Anitha to come near. I dont know to talk like you, express my heart like you do. I am really sorry. Anitha hugged Devi and sobbed as Raghu watched silently. We thought we lost you, you know how painful it was? Can you call Malini? Malini walked inside. Devi was happy to see that she had escaped with minor bruises. My phone Malini gave her the phone. Dont worry Madam; I took care of everything as usual. Excuse me, sub inspector,Mallickarjun, walked in. We need to record Madams statement. Raghu and Anitha watched as Devi explained what happened. She told about everything she had seen upstairs while Malini was downstairs. She revealed about the recording she had done and handed over her phone to the inspector. The elders were discussing trying to come to terms with what happened to Devi. What is the need for her to get involved into all these? Kalavathi declared.

Tulsamma tried to convince her. Only Raghuramiah and Tulsamma knew what Devi had gone through. They could understand her involvement in such activities. Nevertheless, Kalavathi would not listen. Let her come home. I will not let her step out. I will not allow her to go to the orphanage or rehab from now. She had spent enough of her life there. She continued. Devi will never leave orphanage work. You know that. Sankar Rao told trying to convince her. I wonder how those people, her aunt and uncle, permitted her to get involved in such things. She calls them her parents. Could not they restrain her? Are we able to stop Raghu? Sankar rao questioned. Thats right. Now, I understand how she could behave so normal when Raghu was at hospital, she herself is living like him. Sirisha said. Everyone remembered how rude Kamalamma and Suseela had behaved that day and fell silent. Sub Inspector Mallickarjun arrived at the hospital the next day morning to meet Devi. Raghu was surprised to see that Hyderabad south ACP, Suresh Goud accompanied him. Hello Mr. Raghu, how are you? How is Mrs. Raghu? I hope she is recovering fine. Suresh Goud started the conversation after a handshake. Yeah, she is recovering; she can start moving around in a few days. Sorry to disturb this way, but we had some crucial matters to discuss with Mrs. Raghu, ACP continued. No problem, come in. Devi had met the ACP few times before, by his coming to personally meet her, she understood that the matter was serious. After she sat down on the bed taking pillows support, Raghu started to leave, but ACP asked him to stay back. Our team has watched the video recording you have done Madam. We are yet to identify the three people you have filmed in the first room. But, we have identified the three guys who were with the girl in the other room. Mallickarjun started explaining. Who are they? Devi asked immediately expressing extreme contempt. One guy is son of Minister Laxmi Narayana. His name is Madhukar. The other two are his friends, Shyam and Surya. ACP replied this time. We tried to trace them. But they seem to have gone into hiding after that incident. We are continuing our search. We are going to release arrest warrants in their names today evening. Devi and Raghu listened to him silently.

This is going to be a high profile case as it involves sexual assault on a minor girl, as you will be the only witness, we wanted to discuss with you before moving ahead further. Have you inquired the girls condition? Devi questioned. She spoke even before they answered. She is in a battered state, still unable to move her body, and is not talking to anyone. She gets scared when any man touches her, even a doctor. And those animals who did this to her do not deserve to live freely. I will fight till death to get them behind bars. Thanks Mrs. Raghu. I completely understand your emotion; I assure you that I will work on this with my personal interest. The people involved in this case hold high position of status and power, so we will be providing you with security. I know you will be safe and secure at home, but two constables shall accompany you from now on when you are outside. ACP concluded and took leave. Devi was discharged after two days. All the three guys were caught and arrested in the meantime. The media went abuzz with the news. The case was treated with high profile, as it involved trafficking of minor girls and ministers son. Devi noticed that Raghu remained silent. He was not at all discussing about her work like the other family members. Are you still angry with me? she asked. No. I am not angry. Its just thatI..Can I ask you a question? Devi nodded silently. Why are you doing all these? Is it out of anger for what you had gone through years back? You could not come over Raghu, I dont want to discuss this matter. Devi said stopping him in between. Deviyou know.I truly wanted and wished that you could bury the past and continue your life. I did not want you to carry that pain. But, if you could not forget and you are fighting back this way, I am glad that you did not forget. he said and left the room. Kalavathi was unable to suppress her fear and anger as she watched the news and Devis involvement in the case. She finally broke down one day when all the family members were having evening coffee. Devi, whatever you have done till now, it is over. But, I want you to stay away from this case and these kinds of matters from now. Devi looked startled. What are you talking Aunt? How can she give up now? Raghu interjected.

You dont talk in this matter at all. Till now, we had to live sleepless, always surrounded by fear because of you. Now, she has also joined you. Do you both understand what we have to go through when you both work long hours on these matters, get involved with the wrong people. Do you know how it feels to wait for a person in fear of death? Nothing will happen to me Aunt; I have even got security now. You are worrying unnecessarily. Devi tried to convince her. Kalavathi was still talking when Devi stood up seeing Satyam uncle and Asha Aunt. Hello Uncle, Hello Aunt, she greeted them cheerily. Hello Devi, how are you now? Uncle greeted her. Asha aunt spoke up after a while. She handed over few papers to Devi and asked her to sign them. Devi took them into her hands and as she read through them was dismayed. What is this? Aunt, what are you asking me to do? Everything is clear in those papers Devi. Sumitra Madam discussed with me and your uncle clearly before deciding on this. You will not be involved in any of the orphanage and rehab activities from now on. Sign them now. She answered. I will talk to Sumitra Aunt first. Fine Devi, I will dial her number, she and Sir are coming back from Singapore this weekend. She also said that she wanted to talk to you. Satyam dialed the number and switched on the phone speaker. Hello Sumitra Aunt, How are you? I came to know that you are coming back. I am very happy; I will see you after so many days. Yes Devi, I will also be glad to meet you. But this time and forever, our meetings will be only casual. Asha would have explained to you everything. Aunt, II cannot do this. I will never do this. You all are suddenly behaving so strange I am not behaving strangely. I should have done this long time back. But, you promised me that, whatever you do, you will do by not compromising your safety. You broke your promise. So, I had to take this step. Do you even understand how difficult it was for us to see you fighting for life? Aunt, it will never happen again. I have security also now. No one can harm me. You are unnecessarily worried. No Devi, you are not safe until you stay out of these matters. I am not going to listen to you this time. You have your own life now, you are married, take care of your married life and your family. Asha replied without showing any restrain.

Devi looked at her helplessly. Her heart was filled with sorrow. You are asking me to quit for fear of death Aunt? Mom and Dad, they were not involved in these kinds of matters. Even they died. Are you sure that I will have a long life if I stay out these works? Sumitra remained silent. She was speechless. Hello Devi, Uncle hereDont feel sad with Aunts words. Whatever happened to you, Aunt is very upset. We will come and meet you after we reach there. Take care. Bye. Raghu understood that it was DGP on the other end. Raghu had met DGP Purushottam only a couple of times after getting transferred to Hyderabad. Two months after he assumed duty, DGP had left on long leave for a major surgery to Singapore. He was suffering from some strange lung disease. Raghuramiah finally broke his silence. He spoke addressing Satyam and Asha. You both took care of Devi when she was in the orphanage; you loved her as your own child after her parents death. But, she is daughter of this house now. And as the head of this house, I will not restrict Devi from continuing with her work. I had not taught any of my children to turn a blind eye to injustice. Kalavathi was about to speak when Tulsamma stopped her and said. We have educated our children equally without any gender difference. If Raghu can continue fearlessly in his job, even Devi can. Morals are no different for people. Devi is our responsibility now; we will take care of her. Please dont worry. Sankar rao assured. Satyam and Asha did not have any other words. They took leave. However,, their hearts did not feel the burden anymore. For the first time in their life, they felt happy and trusted that Devis life was secured and in safe hands. The family got busy soon with the wedding preparations. Everyone was excited as two girls of the house were getting married. While Devi recovered, she stayed at home taking rest with very minimal assignments. Raghu resumed to his busy life again. Days passed, but his intelligence team was unable to track the missing terrorist leader Mohammad Saifuddin. Some suspected, he flew away from the country, but Raghu would not agree, he was confident about the strict tracking his team had done after the combat that day. He is somewhere in this city. He thought. He received a call from DGP requesting to meet up with his team. Raghu went along with Shivaram and Dinesh to DGPs office. Hello Sir! Welcome back. He said greeting DGP Purushottam. The team was surprised to see that DGP did not ask them to even sit. I will have to go home for lunch, you know, strict orders from my wife to eat only home cooked food. Well Sir! We can meet later. Raghu replied wondering why he even called for a meetingg.

No, you three are coming with me to my home. I know it is sudden invite, but you have to, lets go. he said as he started leaving giving no room for them to talk. DGP discussed everything about the case by the time they reached home. Raghu regarded him high; he already knew about DGPs character, he had an eye for detail. He was one person who worked without budging to any pressure in his entire life and gave independence to his subordinates once he entrusts them with a responsibility. Meet my wife, my better half, Sumitra, DGP introduced his wife. Sumitra, these are my best officers, I hope you have prepared a sumptuous lunch for them, he said as he introduced Raghu, Shivaram and Dinesh. Sumitra nodded with a smile and showed them to the dining table. Lunch is ready Uncle, all your favorites, Devi announced as she entered the dining with dishes in her hand. Raghu and his friends looked surprised at hearing her voice. Even Devi was surprised to see them. Devi dear! When did you come? DGP asked as he got up from the chair and embraced her. She came as soon as I called. She would not listen to me. I told her we will come home in the evening to see her. Sumitra replied. Oh Dear! Good you came. I was really eager to meet you. Love you. Oh really! Is that why you left for work as soon as you arrived? Dont bluff Uncle. Sorry. Did you prepare lunch? Whats the surprise then? Raghu would be eating your dishes every day. Purushottam asked. Raghu and Devi looked at each other silently. Devi had not entered the kitchen even once after their marriage. I told her to take rest, but she insisted. Sumitra added. You know your wife is very stubborn Raghu, how do you deal with her? Is she the same at home too or does she listen to you people? Sumitra asked Raghu. That she is Madam, but you know, once you marry, you have no escape. Raghu grinned looking at Devi. Devi gave him an annoyed look. She looked away and served everyone and joined them at the table. Shivaram and Dinesh were looking amused at them. Aha!! Now I know why Devi cooked. She knew I would have got bored after eating your bland veggie dishes. DGP told.

Hmm! Look Raghu, what your wife has done. Now my husband does not like my cooking too because of her. Raghu looked at her with a question mark expression. I will explain. The story goes back to thirty years when I first met this Madam. I liked her so much that I proposed to her and married her. But, she is a Brahmin, pure vegetarian and I cannot survive without chicken for a single day. Until my mother was alive, she cooked for me. After that, I had to enter the kitchen and struggle alone until this darling Devi entered our lives. One day she came home and saw my struggle, from then on whenever she visits us, she will make sure she cooks for me. DGP explained. By the way, she prepares great chicken curries. I love it! You would be getting to eat every day. No Uncle, I dont cook at home. My Aunts cook excellent compared to me. Devi clarified. I think you were escaping till now in their name. If I reveal your secret to them today, you will have to cook every day. Raghu reacted. Devi looked at him seriously; she got angrier on seeing him smile mischievously. They all sat down and discussed about the human trafficking case after lunch. Do you cook fish also? asked Raghu on the way home. Yeah sure, why dont you bring a shark home? I will cook that also for you Devi replied angrily. Why should I bring one? One shark at home is enough. Will you stop flirting with me? Devi asked him seriously. So, you admit that I am flirting with you. I thought you did not even notice. It is waste talking to you, I better keep quiet. Devi snorted. Raghu placed his hand on her thigh and told her. Shall I tell you something? This time I am not flirting. You cooked great. Devi could see a lot of admiration in his eyes, he had tried to get closer to her many times before, but his look this time really made her conscious. She felt locked in his gaze for a while, unable to bear anymore she looked away from the car window. The entire family travelled to the village for the weddings next day. The entire family had fun with different marriage ceremonies and celebrations. The guys got busy and arranged for a secret bachelor party in the mango grove little far from the house. However, it was difficult to guard the secret in a village, information soon leaked and ladies as well joined them, turning the party into a family gathering around the bonfire. The guys however did not restrain themselves completely and had their drinks.

Devi excused herself after sometime as she was feeling very tired. She entered her room, she was totally exhausted after the party, she took out a nightgown from the wardrobe and laid it on the bed, she wanted to quickly change and go to bed. She unpinned her sari from her blouse when her eyes fell on the wine bottle on the table. I think he had not had enough so that he saved one in this room, she thought. How do people even have this stinky stuff? she wondered as she took the bottle in her hand. Let me try this out once, she considered as she opened the bottle and had one sip from it. Yuck! Thats disgusting! she exclaimed and was about to keep the bottle down when she saw Raghu at the door with camera in his hand. She had a shocked look on her face. Thats quite a shot. I should show this to Dad and Grandpa. After all, they all have the right to know the dark side of their favorite daughter, he grinned. Devi watched in dismay. I was not having it. I just tasted it. I Whatever you can explain that to your fans, he grinned and started to leave the room. Devi abruptly pulled him into the room and locked the door. You are not showing it anyone, delete it right now!! Aha!! Not so easy, do you expect a police officer to destroy key evidence? She understood that he will not give in so easily. She walked close to him and started in a pleading voice. Please Raghudont show it to anyone. As Raghu watched her she tried to pull the camera from his hand, but he would not give away so easily. He stretched his hands up in the air beyond her reach. By now, she was agitated. RaghuI am asking one last time. She said as she pushed him, he lost his balance and fell on the bed; she too fell along with him as she tried to grab his arm. She moved sideways and grabbed the camera in his left hand; however, Raghu pushed her aside and pinned her on the bed holding her arms in a tight grasp. He had grasped her arms so tightly that she had to leave the camera and struggle to free herself. DeviI know you have lots of strength to fight with any man in this worldbut not me, he said as he tightened his grip.

Devi felt agitated. She pushed his arms so hard that he lost his balance and fell on top of her, His face almost touching her face. Time froze between them for an instance as they could feel and hear their heavy breath. Raghu had never come so close to her until now. His muscular body pressing against her soft curves, his eyes bore into her as her lips quivered sensing that his lips were dangerously close to hers. He was not completely loaded; he could still feel in his senses, what was going on in his head, though he could not resist the temptation. A tension got built up in his mind when finally he parried all his thinking and brought his lips closer to hers and touched them softly, parting them slowly, closing the small gap between them. Devis heart ached, all the time she had wanted to resist, but with all his weight on hers, she could hardly make a move. And then in that moment when his lips closed on hers, she felt electrified and shut her eyes. Raghu slowly parted his lips from hers after planting the first kiss of his life. He looked at her face, wanting to know her feelings about what he had done just now, but he did not have a chance as she had closed her eyes. He released his grip on her arms and cradled her face in his hands and started kissing her again, this time, deeply and passionately. Panic rushed through her blood as she brought her hands to his shoulders in an attempt to push him away. Nevertheless,, she had never felt so weak in her lifetime, unable to gather any strength to push him, she held him tight on his back, as her nails dug into his back. Her long nails dug through his back, but he did not care, his mind was filled with the warmth of her lips as he kissed her passionately. He parted from her lips, but leaned forward and kissed her, slowly and reverently, on her temple, eyes, cheek, ears and neck. All the time, she had wrapped her arms tightly around his neck. He slowly let her go off as he moved away from to her side. She suddenly felt cold as she could feel the air touch her body after a long eternal movement. Nonetheless,, it was still hard for her to open her eyes, her eyes though shut, she could sense his strong eyes gazing at her. Unable to face him, she slowly turned sideways away from him with her back facing him. He could smell her scent, a fragrant mixture of her sweat and the jasmines in her hair. He wanted to look into her eyes once, and perceive her feelings, he put his hand on her waist and tried to turn her around, but she would not. She wanted to get up and run away, but her legs felt very weak. Unable to turn her, he continued caressing her waist and her navel and stopped when he felt the soft bandage next to her navel. He kissed on her back while moving his hand upwards searching for her breasts under the tight blouse. She left out a gasp when she felt his hard bare hands on her breasts. She

was wearing a tight silk blouse with hooks on the back. He moved his hand away from her breasts as he reached the blouse hooks and started detaching them one at a time. Easing off the blouse, he caressed her breasts gently through her bra. He unfastened her bra this time with his other hand and turned her around holding her tight. She knew that this was her last chance to move away, to avoid what was coming, but felt so weak and helpless. She loved him so much that at that fine moment when he was so close to her, she could not make any attempt to resist. He looked upon her naked breasts, round and full, and her erect nipples for the first time. He brought his lips close to them when the loud screeching sound of his mobile phone went abuzz. She opened her eyes with a startled and panicky look on her face and moved away quickly as she tried to pull up her blouse and cover herself with her sari. Raghu quickly dug his hand into his pocket, pulled out his mobile and shut it down. They both got off the bed, trying to come into terms with what had happened between them just now. She looked at him only once and unable to bear his gaze anymore turned away. He did not know what to do or what to talk to her. As his mind tried hard to make sense of the last few moments, he mechanically took his camera and walked out of the room closing the door behind. She quickly locked the bedroom door as he left and sat on the bed trembling. She lay on the bed trying hard to comprehend the moments while her heart was still thumping hard. She knew that they were getting close to each other in the past few days and she had always tried to keep a distance, but all her attempts went in vain in this one intimate moment. She tried to block all his thoughts from her mind, but as she started to take off her sari, she could feel his hands moving on her body. Unable to bear anymore, she shut her eyes and pressed hard on her temple. She quickly changed into her nightgown and silently sat on the bed cursing herself for her helplessness. Though she believed she could have everything under control and felt that she can suppress all her feelings, she loved him so much that at that intimate moment, she had let all strings loose. She lay on the bed curled up meditating on her subsequent action. While she wanted to put her emotional side apart and think rationally, her spirit would not permit her to do so. It wandered around him her heart filled with his thoughts. She recalled his touch, his sweet kiss; she felt that it was intensely good. As she remembered each and every second of what happened between them, his hand on her body, her cheeks turned red. A faint smile crossed her lips as she curled up her hands between her legs. He kissed me. He loves me, she thought smiling within self. It was the most unforgettable moment of her life. She had spent the most intimate moments of her life with the person she loved the most. Does he really love me? Or were his actions just a result of attraction resulting from the sheer closeness of the moment? she thought. What if it was just an act of temptation? The very thought ached her heart.

No. she said to herself. He is not the kind of a person who will come close just because of attraction, she convinced herself. He loves me. Butwhat next? The questions that had been piercing her heart from years came back. She knew that the future of her love was always uncertain. She knew that this time, the facts were different, he too loved her, but over time, she had totally lost faith in her destiny that she could not dare to build her faith even on his love. He loves me. But there are more important matters in his life that mean a lot more to him than me. She decided to stay away from him. I cannot carry forward this relationship any further, she thought firmly. She could survive heartbreak once, but not again. She closed her eyelids as tears escaped. Raghu went back to the bonfire and collapsed in an empty chair. Everyone had left. His heart was filled with the preceding moments. He was amazed that it really happened. A smug expression crossed his face. He had wanted to express his feelings to Devi from long. but not this way, he cursed. He wondered on what would be her feelings as he remembered her startled expression. Shit! I ruined everything. I can never show my face to her once again. How could I behave so out of control? he cursed. I should have controlled myself. A sudden realization crossed his mind. I did not do anything deliberately, neither did I force her nor did she try to stop me. He felt that she too reciprocated his feelings. What if.What if she too feels for me.She too loves Me? he thought. His heart jumped with merry. I have to talk to her, he thought and walked into the house, but stopped before knocking the door. This is not the time; I have to give her some time. I will talk to her first thing in the morning. He went to the terrace and slept with many of the other guests sleeping there under the open sky. He woke up in the morning and looked at his watch. It was almost 7 a.m. The house was already hustling with all the family members moving around making final preparations and getting ready for the marriage ceremony. He got up and went into his room while his mind was filled with the thoughts of the past night. He could not find Devi in the room. She must have already got ready and joined others. He thought. He had a quick shower and got ready and came down the hall. His eyes searched for her everywhere, but could not find her. The house was flocked with relatives and friends of everyone busy doing some work or chitchatting. Prashant dragged him soon to help with

some arrangements. Devi was in the brides room helping Anitha get ready; she tried to concentrate on the happenings at home. She stared at herself in the mirror. The event of the night would not leave her mind. She had an upsurge of emotions recalling Raghus touch and kiss. Each passing moment was making it harder for her to suppress her feelings and think rationally. She had meditated the entire night on what she had to talk to Raghu, but still felt nervous. What happened? You are looking lost Anitha asked as she got up from the chair. She was all dressed up, the perfect looking bride. NoNothing.Look at youyou are looking lovely, Devi replied trying to divert her thoughts. Not as beautiful as you. You are looking very fresh and bright today. Whats the matter? Anitha continued teasing. It is your marriage madam, so lets talk about you; you seem to be very eager for the wedding. Devi teased back. Who knows what these two brides are eager about- Wedding or first night? Sirisha jumped in between. Everyone burst out laughing. The wedding ceremony was held in the same temple mantap where Raghu and Devi got married. Nevertheless, the marriage was more grand and magnificent this time. After all, two weddings had happened with three big families taking part in the ceremony. Raghu saw Devi only in the mantap along with the brides. She was looking beautiful than ever. He kept looking at her almost all the time. But never once did she face him. She is shying away, I will have to first make her comfortable and then express my love to her, he thought. He smiled at the thought that he will be proposing to his wife years after marriage. With so many people around, getting a chance to meet her alone seemed remote. Raghuramaiah went up the mantap after the marriage rituals and started speaking with a mike in his hand. Today another two girls of the house got married. They will soon leave us and go to their real home, with their actual family. I advise them and wish that they spread love wherever they are as they have done till now. Women of my house have always been my pride, right from the time of my grandmother. When my grandfather joined the other polygars in their fight against British, my grandmother herself made an army of women and went into hiding in caves along with us children to save our lives. She spent 22 days in those caves along with the other women undeterred. The then king and queen gifted their ancestral gold bangles praising her bravery and courage. These bangles remain with our family; from then on they are passed from generations, but not because of inheritance. As you all know, a

woman in my family inherits them only due to her personal actions and deeds. My late wife and my sister possessed each of them till now. Time has come when they are passed to the next generation. All of you here would have already heard of how Devi had rescued many girls risking her own life. Today, my heart filled with pride, I announce that my granddaughter has earned the privilege to own these bangles. I am very proud that she is my granddaughter, my heir, my blood runs in her veins. Now, I request my sister to bestow these bangles to Devi. The mantap echoed with the claps and applauds of the village people on the announcement. The family members were all rejoicing the moment with each of them congratulating Devi, but she just sat there stunned. She had waited for this moment for years, the moment when her grandpa will truly accept her, and here not only did he accept her, but also acknowledged that he is proud having her. She slowly walked up the stage as if in a trance as tears welled up her eyes. Have you forgiven me Grandpa, do you really accept me? she asked with a quivery voice as she took his blessings. Yes dear, I am proud to have you as my granddaughter, he replied. For the first time in his life, he was talking openheartedly with her. Does that mean that you have forgiven my mother too? she asked. He was taken aback with that question and stood there silently. I am your granddaughter, because I am her daughter, I got your blood from her. How can you accept me without accepting her? Raghuramaiah stood there silently, even if his heart acknowledged the fact, he cannot accept it in front of others, doing so meant dissociating from Pratap raos family. With no answer from him, Devi felt desolated. Sorry grandpa, I do not mean to disrespect you, but I cannot accept these bangles without you accepting my mother. She silently started to leave the stage, but Tulsamma stopped her. These bangles belong to me Devi. I have the right to bestow them to anyone of my choice and you are my choice. I truly forgive my niece, your mother, and acknowledge you my granddaughter. Saying this, she took Devis hands and put the bangles on her hands. Raghuramaiah thanked his sister within for saving him from the dilemma as she hugged Devi. Devis heart was filled with mixed emotions. While her heart wanted to rejoice, it was also filled with a small sense of dissatisfaction as she felt that her grandpa will never forgive her mother. It was late evening by the time the marriage rituals and lunch were finished and relatives left. The brides were given a sendoff with heavy hearts. Only some close family members had stayed back. By now, Raghu completely understood that Devi was avoiding him. Everyone left for their rooms tired after dinner.

Devi changed into her nightgown and sat on the bed thinking. So much has happened in the last 24 hours she thought. why is everything in my life incomplete? she thought. Raghu got intimate with her, but she did not know the future of their relationship. Grandpa accepted her, but did not attempt to fill the cracks completely. Raghu entered the room and gazed at her pale face. You looked very beautiful today. He said trying to open a conversation. And congratulations, he continued pointing at the bangles on her hands. He came and stood next to her as she kept herself busy taking off her jewelry. Devi, I know you are disturbed with whatever happened yesterday night, I had wanted to talk to you for quite some time, but it all happened unintentionally and I did not tell you what I was supposed to. Devi, I love you, I love you a lot. He said and lifted her chin up to look at her beautiful face. She quickly got up and moved away from him. He proposed to her, expressed his love, the love for which she longed for years. Her heart ached with the thought that she had to refuse him while it wanted to just embrace him. Raghu. I..whatever happened yesterday night, she choked for words. Whatever happened yesterday night was accidental. It was just a result of one weak moment which has passed and has to be forgotten now. We were so close to each other that we could not get ourselves out of the sexual attraction. Let us not talk about it anymore. I dont have any such feelings for you. She said her fists tightly closed as she felt like running away from the room. Raghu did not expect this from her. He was not prepared for such a response from her. With no words to speak, he left the room. Devi slept on the bed silently not letting out a single tear out her eyes. I cannot bear heartbreak once again, I have to do this, she convinced herself. Raghu sat silently on the terrace parapet wall and lit a cigarette; he was totally taken aback with what Devi told him just now. He was feeling very angry on one corner of his heart, but his mind forced him to think rationally. He considered for a long time and was convinced that she was deliberately denying him. She is not a person who will advance because of attraction, he thought. She loves me, but she is still angry with me, he thought. He went into the room and sat on the bed next to her and put his hand on her shoulder. She got up and sat on the bed. Devi. I know what you have been through in the past and I understand that things had always been sour between us. But, trust me; I have made all possible attempts to clear matters between us. My past

efforts had always been keeping in mind my responsibility towards you. But past days have been different. As I got closer to you, as I started understanding the real you, your maturity, your valor and your independent character, I truly started loving you. You are no more an obligation to me. I treat you with high regard now and I truly admire you. Both of us very much know that what you have told just now is not true. You can lie to yourself, but dont try to lie to me; you cannot cheat me and hide your feelings for me. I promise you, I will not force you for anything, but remember I will not let you go until you admit your true feelings for me. Raghu spoke his heart openly for the first time to her. She retreated and slept silently curled up on one side of the bed. He will not give up, she thought and was skeptic if she could face his confrontation. They left for Hyderabad the next day. Raghu had to resume his work as soon as he returned. Devi started off working with small assignments, but she resumed simple dance practice avoiding exertion. One day when coming out of the Home theater room, Devi observed Raghu workout in the gym. He had taken off his shirt. Devi watched his strong muscles and contours in awe, and she continued glaring at him unaware that he was able to see her in the mirror in front of him. Raghu quickly devised a plan in his mind. The next day morning when Devi woke up, she was startled. The room was full of chocolates. There were chocolates everywhere, on the side of the bed where Raghu slept, the night stand, the dressing table, her wardrobe. She sat motionless on the bed as tears welled up her eyes. Raghu came out of the bathroom after he finished his bath, with a towel wrapped around; he came closer to Devi but stopped when she saw tears in her eyes. Well! I know you love chocolates, but I did not know that you will cry on seeing them!! he said and reached to wipe her tears. Devi looked at him wiping her tears as he sat down next to her. My Dad used to always surprise me like this on my birthday. Why did you do this? You know why, he answered looking teasingly at her. Devi moved away from him and got off the bed. However,, he pulled her by her waist and made her sit across his lap. Raghuwhat are you doing? Let me go. She struggled. Not until you tell me how you felt, he replied. I am happy. Thanks for the chocolates, now please let me go. I am not asking about chocolates. I am asking what you feel about my body. He questioned. Devi looked at him angrily. She became conscious that he was wearing only a towel and his bare chest was pressing against her.

You have gone crazy early in the morning, I care a damn about you and your body, leave me. Really, then what were you gazing at yesterday standing by the gym door. Raghu smirked. Devi looked at him shocked. He caught her off guard. She struggled to release herself in vain. Dont pressurize yourself. Ok. Tell me, why were you looking? Was it out of love or just sexual attraction like you mentioned earlier? Raghu. Please. Leave me. She looked helplessly at him. I will also see for how long you will deny your feelings, He took off his arms and let her go. He quickly dressed himself and left for office. Devi lay on the bed staring at the ceiling. Keeping Raghu away was becoming very difficult for her. Her heart knew that he was genuinely in love and was making all possible attempts to get closer to her. She felt confused on her stance. Late in the afternoon, she got a call from Raghu, but did not pick up. She received a call from DGP uncle after some time. Hello Devi.. Are you fine? Did I disturb you? We were trying to reach you. She understood that Raghu was calling for a different purpose. No uncle. The phone was on silent mode. I did not notice the calls. She quickly lies. Can you come over to my office now right now? We have some important meeting. Fine uncle, I will be there. she said. Devi quickly got ready and went to DGPs office. Devi was surprised to see Home minister present in the meeting room. DGP introduced her to the minister quickly and offered her a seat. Devi, we will project some pictures to you, look at them and let us know if you can identify any of the persons, Raghu told her. Devi kept quiet as she viewed the pictures one by one. She rose up from the chair suddenly. can you show the previous picture once again? she asked. She stared at the picture for some time and then commented, I think I saw him that day in the room, but, he did not sport a beard then The officers in that room looked at her in awe; they were struck by her memory and logical reasoning. What is it Mr.Raghu? Who is this person? Is he of importance? Home Minister inquired. He is the terrorist leader Mohammad Saifuddin. Our intelligence got hold of his ten year old picture yesterday. Now, from Devis recording we have his latest image. This also confirms that he was hiding in the city until two weeks back.

The minister looked shocked with this revelation. His party was already facing heat and disgrace from the time Minister Laxmi Narayanas son was charged with sexual assault crime. But why was he present in that location, what has a terrorist got to do with human trafficking? he inquired. Raghu felt irritated that he was working under such an ignorant administration. Money, they get a huge amount of money to run their operations by selling these poor girls. I wonder what your ministers share in this was. Devi interjected. The officers were astonished seeing her guts. They could not exhibit this frankness because of their position and work. Nonetheless,, Devi had no reason to hold back. DGP already knowing her personally stayed quiet. You cannot make such a serious comment without establishing concretely Mrs. Devi. All we have is one video recording that too done on a mobile phone. We will have to send it to forensics for examination to clear any doubts about tampering. Minister reacted defensively. I am the eye witness of what happened that day. As long as I am there, you would not need any additional proofs. Coming to your doubts about the video getting tampered, there is no need to worry about that. I have enough copies of it secured to submit in the court of law. So, it is your minister who has to prove that he is guiltless. Devi replied. The home minister was taken aback. He did not expect such a defense from Devi. You have copies of the video? Looks like you do not have enough trust on our department? he spoke forcing a fake smile. Trust? DGP Sir sitting here is like a father to me. DCP Raghu sitting opposite to you is my husband. Yet, you are correct. Over time, I have learnt to not trust anyone when it comes to my work. She replied with a smile. All the officers including Raghu felt it very hard to conceal their smile. DGP spoke up trying to clear the air. The case does not remain a mere human trafficking case anymore. We have the most wanted terrorist involved in it. Hence, we have decided to transfer the case to the special investigation team under DCP Raghu. He and his team will be solely responsible for further investigation in this front. Saying this he concluded the meeting. Devi left for home while Raghu had to stay back at work. Whats happening with the case Devi? Sirisha says that you were called to the DGP office in the afternoon. Anything troubling? Sankar Rao inquired during dinner. Before Devi could answer, Raghu started speaking. Dont you worry about Devi Dad? She has nothing to fear about, but with her around other people have to watch their back. She is a killer whale.

Entire family started laughing on hearing Raghus remark. Devi smirked. Dont you dare talk about me like this once again? she said angrily pointing her finger at him. What will you do? Eat me away, like you did with that minister? he continued laughing. I had enough of this, saying that she stood up to leave. Wait Devi!! You shouldnt leave like this in between the meal. Sankar Rao spoke out. Raghu Why are you teasing her like that? Stay quiet. He scolded Raghu. The family was troubled after hearing new developments in the case. While they were happy that Raghu got associated with the case, they were still worried about Devis security. But, Raghu ensured them to be at peace. Devi left for a song recording the next day, she visited the orphanage after the recording, orphanage was one place she could stay calm. The children were very glad to have her around after so many days. She sung with them and danced with them for a long time until evening. She sat alone in the garden when she got a call from Raghu. She could not avoid any calls from him now. She would never know if the call was official or personal. Where are you? he asked as she picked up the call. Why do you ask? Tell me if there is any work. So, you wont talk to me and meet me if there is no official work now? Yes, and I will not tell you where I am also, saying that she disconnected the call. She sat there in the garden watching her parents grave wondering how her life would have been if they were alive. I wish you were here with me Dad to guide me, to tell me what to do. Raghu loves me a lot. What do you think? Do you believe he will love me as you did? she thought within self. Her thoughts were disturbed when she felt someone standing behind, she turned back to see Raghu standing behind her silently. When did you come? How did you know I am here? she asked in wonder. He settled silently next to her and smiled. Thats not the point; the point is I am here though you did not tell me. So, what are you doing here sitting alone? I am not alone, she replied. Raghu looked at her questioningly.

I am talking to my parents. He put his hand on her shoulder and asked, why wont you talk to me? Give me a chance? She looked at him once and turned away unable to look anymore into his eyes. She sat silently considering I love him Dad. He moved closer to her and squeezed her shoulder and asked, you miss them a lot? Unable to bear his love anymore, she stood up and walked towards the gate. I have asked your security to leave when I came in. We can go home together, he suggested. The security told you.you found from the security that I was here? she questioned. He grinned and opened the car door for her. And you posed as if you understood by yourself where I was? she snapped and sat silently in the car. He got in next to her. How am I supposed to find then? Use some sixth sense? If you love me truly, you would have understood, your heart would know it, it does not need any sixth sense. Raghu looked at her quizzically. He felt irritated. Why should she make everything look so tough? Cannot she talk openly? he thought. Raghu and Devi were in for a surprise when they saw Divya, Giri, Anitha and Anil at home when they reached. Divya hugged Raghu and Anitha hugged Devi as soon as they entered. They spent the entire evening until late night chitchatting about their in-laws house and their honeymoon trip. We are going out tomorrow early morning, be ready, Anil declared before going to bed. We, what do mean we, Raghu asked him. We mean. We all, one day outing, we will be back by night. Anitha replied. No, I cannot come, I have a song recording tomorrow, I am sorry, Devi interjected. Dont you worry? We took care of everything. You dont have any work tomorrow, I spoke with Ramani. And Raghu, even your calendar is free, I worked out everything with Dinesh. Giri said with a smile. Devi wanted to resist, she did not like the idea of spending one entire day with Raghu, but she did not say anything lest she would disappoint others. The three couples had an early breakfast the next day morning and left for their trip. Devi and Raghu were confused when they stopped at the airport.

I know you both are confused, but you would not come if we told earlier, we are going to Goa for three days, Anitha announced cheerily. Devi and Raghu were shocked. Goa, for three days, I am not coming, lets just go home, Devi snapped. Anitha, this is not right, I have a lot of work, I just cannot leave for an unplanned trip like this, Raghu tried to convince. We have everything planned. We adjusted all your work and appointments; we personally spoke with Dinesh and Ramani and took care of everything. Anitha packed all your clothes secretly. Please, do not disappoint us like this. Your life has been topsy-turvy always. We considered you will have one chance to relax and enjoy for some time. Please do not say no, do not disappoint us like this, Giri spoke trying to convince them. Raghu could not say no. He too knew that he needed this privacy with Devi. Nevertheless,, Devi would not agree how much ever everyone tried to convince her. Devi, I always thought of as my best friend and just wanted to spend some time with you. I am married now and I will be living in a separate place. We will only meet on occasions. This is one last chance for us to enjoy and have quiet time. If you want to let us down like this, fine. But I will never try to be your friend again, Anitha spoke in a defeated voice. Devi felt very sad and trapped. The flight will depart in 5 minutes, we have to go, please, Anil asked finally. Devi walked inside the airport half-heartedly. She stayed quiet for the entire flight though Raghu tried to talk to her many times. Raghu was getting irritated by the moment. Despite all his attempts, he understood that Devi stayed aloof. It was afternoon by the time they checked into a pleasant beach side hotel in Goa. Devi felt very uneasy as she entered the room. It was a honeymoon suite. She unpacked her bag wondering what Anitha had packed along with Ramani. Not even one full jeans, she cursed when she saw her skirts, shorts, sleeveless shirts, half pants and three-fourth pants. She had left all these clothes in the orphanage and never even brought them home. She changed into one of her sleeveless cotton shirt and three-fourth pants in the bathroom as she wondered how she was going to spend this one week with Raghu. Raghu had also changed into a T-shirt and shorts by then. The group had a quiet lunch and chitchatted until evening and headed to the beach. Anitha tried a lot to convince Devi to get into water, but Devi excused telling that she was scared of getting into water. She rested on the beach side while the others enjoyed in water. Raghu came and sat next to her and tried to talk something to her, but even before he spoke, she stopped him, Raghu, I am here only because of Anitha, I have always told you and I am telling you, it is better we maintain distance, Saying that she tried to move away. Raghu felt agitated. He lost all his patience.

Whats your problem, Devi? Do you think I approach you only to touch you? Dont you understand the love I have for you? I am always trying to share love with you, share my feelings with you and reduce your pain, why dont you give me a chance. I dont understand your problem at all, he spoke angrily. Thats my problem, Raghu. My problem is that you dont understand me and my feelings, my pains and inhibitions. Should I explain everything? You claim to love me, then try and understand my problem by yourself. He watched in frustration as she walked away. What happened, why did Devi leave? Giri asked as they approached Raghu. One of your fights again Raghu, cannot you guys stay friendly for one single day in your life? Anitha asked sitting next to him. Why are you looking so upset? This is not the first time you both are fighting. Whats the problem Raghu? The problem is I love her. Everyone looked at him amazed. Then what happened, did you propose to her? What did she say? Did she refuse? Is that why you both are looking so disturbed? Anitha asked. No, she too loves me. But, she denies. She stays away. She always tries to stay away. I dont understand. You mean Devi accepted that she loves you, did she say? She did not tell, but I know. How can you be sure then? Might be you mistook Raghu stopped her. Guys, a lot has happened between us in the past few days. I cannot explain everything to you, but take my word, I know she loves me. But she never wants to be with me. Do you know the reason, have you asked her? Giri questioned him. Well! Thats the problem. She will never say anything. You know what she just now told? If you love me, you understand me. Why cannot she just open up? I hate this, I am getting frustrated. Thats what she wants Raghu. How can you even believe that she loves you? She is just having fun playing around watching you in pain, Divya interjected. Enough Divya, dont blabber anything that comes to your mind, Giri shouted at her.

Whatever I say, you people will back up her only, she has done some magic on you guys, she walked away in anger. Giri followed her to their room. Divyalisten. I need not hear anything Giri. I know you like her a lot, her voice and her dance. But that does not mean she is correct for my brother. Divya, I dont want to talk about her. Let us talk about us, let us talk about you. You are the most sensitive and caring person I had ever met, that is the reason I love you. Why are you so bitter only in this matter? Why does your character transfigure when it comes to Devi? Divya tried to speak, but he stopped her and continued. For one single moment, keep aside her past and her relations with your family. Think of her as an individual you are meeting for the first time and answer. What wrong do you find in her? Divya did not have any answer. Divya, you cannot build or repair a relationship as long as you cling to your past. Let it go off. You have nothing to do in this matter. It is about your brothers life, Devis life and their married life. Let them sort it out by themselves. I have nothing to do with their life. I am bothered about us, I am bothered about you, I cannot see you as a bitter person. I always want you as the sweet caring person, do you understand? he said as he hugged her tightly and pulled her into his lap. Divya understood his point. She put her hands around him and kissed him lightly on his neck. You cannot expect everyone to be heart-to-heart Raghu. May be she is right, give her sometime and give yourself sometime to understand her. Love does not comply with rational reasoning; put your emotional brain to work. Anitha tried to console him with a smile. The group gathered in the beach side restaurant for dinner. having dinner here is so soothing, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, hearing the sound of the ocean. Divya said as she savored the Goan fish delicacies. I love the ocean when I am in it, feeling the waves; it is such an amazing experience. Giri added. Why are you so scared of water Devi? You did not even wet your legs? You have to come for the rides tomorrow; we are not going to leave you. Anil asked Devi. No, I am fine by the shore. You guys enjoy. The very sight of those waves scares me off. Come on Devi, you need not be so scared. Many people do not know swimming but still get into water, we are not going to leave you, Anitha spoke out. Devi simply waved off the idea.

We are all around you Devi. Why dont you trust us once and get into water along with us? Cannot you at least share your fears with us? Not every page of your life needs to be hidden in your personal diary. Cannot you tell us why you are so scared? I dont know if we can solve your problem, but we can try to comfort you. Anitha continued. She would not speak a single word. Everyone finished dinner and started to get up but stopped when she spoke. I know to swim; my Dad taught me when I was six years old. Everyone paused looking at her questioningly as she gathered her words. I was 13, when a flood of water hit me and took away my parents with it, forever. She continued talking looking at the ground. My Dad made me climb a tree; its branches were very weak. It could carry only my weight. If my parents had climbed, it would fall. My mom and dad hung to the tree trunk for the last thirty minutes of their life telling me how much they loved me and they only asked me to live with courage and hope. That was the last time I saw them alive before they gave up and were taken away by water forever. That was the last lesson they had taught me, to never give up until the last breathe. I tried to live like that always, but it is difficult to succeed every time, it is difficult to let go of some fears how much ever I try. She rose quietly and left without looking at them. She is very stubborn, I cannot imagine living her life for a single day, Giri spoke as he left. Raghu entered the room to see Devi sleeping on the bed. He knew that she was not asleep. However, he quietly went and slept on the other side of the bed. All the night, he considered, how he could comfort her and how he could win her trust. The group got ready and left for sightseeing around. Devi quietly followed them; she knew that they postponed their water sports because of her. Raghu seemed lost in a different world, capturing every beautiful scene in his camera. She looked at him with heavy heart, I have hurt him a lot yesterday, she thought. The group settled down at the beach in the evening playing truth or dare. Each one danced and sung merrily letting out some of their worst and funny secrets. Everyone was surprised when Divya chose to ask the question on Raghus turn. Why do you love Devi so much? she asked openly in front of everyone. Devi was startled to hear it from Divya, she felt very uncomfortable. Giri understood Divyas intent, she understood that Raghu was in love, but her mind did not understand, why? He thought that she will be at peace after knowing. Raghu, answer me, Divya continued. Let me guess, Anitha interjected trying to ease up the situation.

You love her because she is gorgeous, you love her voice and yes, you love for her courage, right? Raghu spoke finally looking at Devi, but she would not look at him. No, I like her for these reasons; I dont love her for these. Everyone looked at him puzzled. Devi raised her head and looked at him. Even she felt that he loved her for the same reasons. I love her because she is the only woman in this world who can accept my death like I want her to. Everyone was startled on hearing his answer. If I die on duty because of my work, any other woman would understand, but she will not completely adapt to that fact, somewhere in her corner of the mind, she will lament that I chose to die for others leaving her. But, Devi will not, she will accept my reasons wholeheartedly. Everyone looked at him with empathy. Divya for the first time in her life understood Devis place in her brothers life. She had no qualms now. Each moment was making it more difficult for Devi to tolerate Raghus feelings. It was Devis turn when Raghu chose to question her. You told about your parents yesterday night, how they spent the last thirty minutes of their life. I will ask you one question. What would you do in the final thirty minutes of your life? My question might seem silly. But, give it a thought. The way we both are leading our lives, we never know when our last thirty minutes would be. If you are living in the last thirty minutes of your life, would you like to share them with me? Raghu questioned. He looked silently at her as tears escaped her eyes inadvertently. She shut her eyes tight unable to look at him. Devi sat there numb comprehending his words. His question stirred up a storm in her mind. All the time, she distanced herself from him with fear of future, with fear of separation. And here, he was quizzing about the final moments of her life. She could not deny him. Twice she felt that death was separating them, once when she saw him in the hospital bed and once when she was on the hospital bed. What if they were the final moments of their life? I have accomplished many things in my life, but what about my love? She thought. She closed her fists filled with sand tightly. As the sand slowly escaped from between her fingers, she realized that time also escapes the same way. Raghu had decided to not force her for anything, he got up and started to leave, but she stopped him holding his hand. She wanted to speak, but choked for words as he looked at her. I will sleep on you, she paused trying to gather words. Everyone looked at her with a shocking expression.

She looked straight into his eyes this time leaving all her fears behind. I will sleep on you. I will lean on your chest and listen to your heartbeat until my last heartbeat. Raghu looked at her standing there motionless. She ran away as far as she can unable to bear his presence anymore. Raghu stood there for eternity looking at the way she ran until Anil called him out and disturbed his thoughts. A bright smile crossed his lips after a long time. He quickly followed her in the path she ran, His eyes searching for her. Finally, our Romeo gets Juliet to admit her love. All is well that ends well. Giri spoke as everyone burst out laughing. Raghu found her standing on a rock gazing at the setting sun. He slowly went and stood behind her. She turned around knowing that he was there. Raghu gazed at her silently, but she stood there with her head bent unable to look into his eyes. He moved his hand and tucked strands of her hair covering her face behind her ear; he lifted her head by her chin and started feeling her soft skin and her lips with his fingers. He let his fingers trail down her cheek to her lips, outlining the shape of her mouth with the tip of his index finger, as if he were charting a course. He could feel her breathing; feel the racing of her heart. He was reminded of the day when he first kissed her. He remembered the moment when he embraced her soft supple body in his arms. It was the moment in her life when time had slowed down and the air went still. She felt like her breath was caught in her throat. Her heart was thumping loudly and her cheeks turned into an even darker shade of crimson. She went a few steps back unable to bear when she felt his warm breath on her face, but stopped scared as she reached the edge of the rock. She looked back and felt scared as she saw herself standing on the tip of the rock and got even more scared seeing the waves smash against the rock. She came one step front and looked at him as fear filled her eyes. Raghu felt gloomy as he understood her changed expression. He loved her as the fearless woman carrying the courage to fight against any odds. He did not like this part of her and wanted to get rid of all the fears that engulfed her mind. He put his hand on her shoulder and pushed her back into the water and jumped along behind her. Devi panicked and felt suffocated. She tried to come up, gasping for air at the surface, and tried to move her arms as if trying to grasp and climb some non-existent ladder from the sea when he caught her and grabbed her close to him. She held him tight and hugged him, with her arms clung around him, as she choked between sobs and attempted to breathe again. I hate you, how could you do this even after knowing everything? How could you be so mean? I will never talk to you. I will never trust you in my life, she shouted at him and tried to move away from him. Nevertheless,, as she loosened her grip around him, she felt that, she could not leave him, she felt trapped, and her body trembled as she realized that she was still neck deep in water. Take me out of here, please Raghu; please dont play with me like this she pleaded panting heavily.

Listen to my heartbeat Devi, he said letting her go down a bit. He pressed her head against his chest and repeated, listen to my heartbeat, stay calm and listen, listen to it until your heart is filled with my love leaving no place for fear. She leaned her head against his chest and listened to his heartbeat. He waited calmly until he could feel her normal breath. Devi, open your eyes and look at me, he said as he dragged her up and lifted her chin. She stared at him, he could see her eyes were filled with love for him, and there was no trace of fear in them now. Look around Devi, feel the waves touching you, they can only touch you and go back to where they have come from, I will never let them take you away from me. Trust me; I will not let any force in this world take you away from me. I will never let you go off. She embraced him tight letting the tears escape from her eyes, letting out all her fears along with them. Let us get out of the water, she said. I will take you out on one condition, you should not run away after going out, promise me, Raghu replied with a smile. I will not run away from you, never. He took her out of the water and laid her gently down on the sand and looked down into her eyes and smiled. She rested on the sand and closed her eyes telling, stop staring at me like that. He drew closer to her to kiss her, but she opened her eyes and drew back looking around scared. Theres no one around, saying that he pulled her back on the sand and kissed her passionately. They looked at each other with a smile on their face. You are looking beautiful today, he said as he traced his fingers on her chest moving his hand down to reach her navel. He could see the shape of her body underneath: the curves of her breasts, the indentation of her waist. She felt conscious as she realized about her clothing. Her wet pink shirt could not do much to hide her curves. She knew that he could see her bra and almost everything beneath the shirt. I did not know that I will get wet, this shirt, I have to go back to room and change, she tried to get up, but he pushed her back on the sand. You promised you are not going away. He kissed her again, this time fiercely, his lips sucking her bottom lip, his tongue tenderly touching hers. He continued kissing her as he moved his left hand down and reached for her breasts. He started

massaging her breasts hidden behind her bra. He moved down on her body and lifted her shirt up revealing her waist. He kissed her on her navel, moving his tongue in her navel, tracing small circles around it. She let out sweet moans and pleaded him to stop. please Raghu, I cannot bear this anymore. Her moans only stimulated his feelings more. He started to unbutton her shirt, but she stopped him holding his hands firm, not here, saying that she walked away briskly with him behind into the hotel room. I will have a quick shower and come back, she said as he locked the door behind. But, he would not let her go alone. He carried her into the bathroom and turned on the shower as he eagerly unbuttoned his shirt and then hers. He quickly unclasped her bra hooks and took her firm breasts into his hands and kissed them gently. He cupped her breasts in his hand and rubbed and squeezed her nipples and took one of them into his mouth this time while he continued playing with the other with his fingers. She left out a gasp and pulled him up unable to bear anymore. She hugged him tight unable to look into this eyes. Her body fluttered. Her heart thumped when she felt his eyes on her bare body and his hands on her bare back. He continued caressing each and every part of her body and reached her hips. He reached for her pants and pulled them down along with her panties. Her heart throbbed sending a chill through her spine as she realized that he was looking at her nakedness. She turned back unable to look at him. Raghus eyes trailed through the soft curves of her back and her hips. Her soft skin half-covered with her long black hair gleamed under water. He took off his shirt and shorts and turned her around. He turned off the shower and carried her to the bed. She quickly reached for a blanket and covered herself and opened her eyes, but immediately shut them seeing his bare muscular body. Raghu without looking away from her climbed into the bed beside her. He slowly started exploring each and every part of her body with his hands and his lips simultaneously. With his body half on top of her, he cupped her face in his hands and moved away the wet strands of hair from her cheek. He kissed her on her forehead, her cheeks, and her earlobes and finally reached for her lips swallowing them, taking them inside his mouth and kissed her hard. He moved completely on top of her with his intense muscular body pressing her deep into the soft bed. She gripped the white bed linen tightly in her fists as she heaved for breath under his weight. He moved down her body a little, this time kissing her neck moving his tongue slowly on her collarbone sending a sweet chill down her spine. He moved further down as he pulled the blanket down her breasts exposing her full breasts. Her face flushed with fervor and her wet body trembled as the cool air blew against her bare chest. He lifted her breasts into his hands and fondled with her nipples licking them one at a time, tracing circles around them with his tongue. She bit her lower lip in an attempt to stifle the loud gasp that arose when he bit her nipple softly with his teeth. She let go of the bed linen from her fists and hugged him tight digging her nails into his bare back. He moved further down her body and started exploring her thin waistline and her navel. He traced and retraced circles around her navel and took away the blanket and completely uncovered her. He moved further down on her body looking at her nakedness for the first time in his life. He moved his fingers gently on her thighs dividing them to have a clear look at her nakedness. He moved his fingers and lightly caressed her lips feeling her wet thin pubic hair.

Devi choked with a sensual pleasure; an unknown fear gripped her at the same time. Unable to tolerate anymore she pulled him up and looked at his face opening her eyes after long eternal moments. I.I am scared, she choked for words. I dont know if I can do thisI... Tears escaped her eyes as she said. I am sorry. Raghu understood her emotions completely. Devi, please dont cry, I know your fears, I promise you I will never force you, you know I will not, saying that he tried to move away. But Devi held him tight. Dont leave. I am afraid. But I want you. I want to become yours completely, never leave me. Help me Raghu; help me overcome this fear as well. He smiled at her and rested his head in between her breasts and took her hand into his and started sucking his fingers. He moved up on her and rested on her side very close to her letting his body still touch her body. She could feel his hardness touch the side of her hip and turned her head away from him. But he turned her to face him, Devi, open your eyes and look at me. As she opened her eyes, he took her hand and put it around his waistline and put his leg on her body and moved further closer pressing his body against hers. He kissed her gently on her lips and said, You are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. He slowly moved his hand from her shoulder onto her waistline and rolled her over on the bed and pulled her on top of his naked body. Her fear needed her to move away, but she wanted to resist it, she gathered all her strength to stay on top of him and rested her head on his chest listening to his heavy breathe. She started moving her fingers slowly on his chest feeling the hair that started at his chest and ran all the way till his bellybutton. She was tempted to look further down his body to see his rock hardness that was pressing against her thighs, but she felt hypnotized and immobile. He turned her around slowly and separated her thighs and moved his fingers on the mound between her legs. Parting her lips with his fingers, he guided his tongue in between the gap until he reached the nub of her flesh and started stroking it gently with his soft tongue. She gripped the bed spread tightly for a while, unable to bear the pleasing pain anymore she writhed beneath him. She twisted her body and straightened her legs trying to endure the sweet torture that was resulting from the ruthless movement of his tongue. She gripped his shoulders hard and as the storm inside her exploded she cried out her voice filled with a scream of joy.

Raghu could feel the wetness between her lips for the first time; he knew that she was in a state of elated bliss. She was ready. He moved up on her body moving her legs wide apart and pushed himself inside her with a single stroke. He could hear her gasp as if in pain. Devi, the only way to overcome this is by going through it, are you ready? She answered in a muffled sob, but she held him tight over her body moving her hands from his upper back to his lower back until she rested them on his hips. Devi, open your eyes and look at me. He kissed her deeply thrusting himself into her at the same time. He moved up and down inside her with tender strokes letting her adjust to his hardness inside her. As her body took him fully, he accelerated his thrusts going further deeper and faster inside her. With each deep thrust of his, she got rid of all her fears in her heart, exposing the sea of pleasure that had receded somewhere in the deep corner of her heart. She wondered why she had been so afraid of this magical pleasure till now. She looked at him with her eyes filled with pleasure. She moved her hands to the back of his head, moving her fingers between his moist hairs and grabbed him close to her and kissed him softly making her first move towards him. Raghu smiled at her now enjoying himself to the fullest as she let go of all the fears. He started moving with increased hardness, riding into her harder and deeper, raising her up by holding her hips he brought her further closer to him penetrating much deeper into her. As the force of his thrusts increased, her breasts swayed, heightening the pleasure and pain inside her. She started letting off soft muffled screams as he pushed himself further down inside her and finally slammed into her with one final deep thrust. He released her and lay by her side breathing heavily hearing her pant at the same time. They lay there for eternity letting the cool air dry the sweat on their body closing their eyes tired. She rose after sometime wrapping the blanket around her and tried to get off the bed, but he pulled her back. He realized that she was still shying away from seeing his naked body. Raghu, I need a shower, let me go. Even I need a shower, lets go, saying that he took her to the bathroom and turned on the shower. He took the soap in his hands and rubbed her soft body with his hands kissing her in between. He put soap in her hand and looked at her with his dark wicked eyes. Your turn. Devi stared at him, she could never do it, she looked away and tried to move away from the shower. He held her tight and pushed her against the cold wall of the shower. No cheating. She shyly wrapped her hands around his back and started rubbing his back slowly. He held her hand and guided her to all the parts of his body and made love to her once again as hot water sprayed on both of them.

Devi wrapped herself in a towel while she dried her long wet hair with another towel. She shyly looked at his naked body as he dug into his bag for clothes. Dont stare at me like that, I will have to start off once again, but my stomach is growling with hunger, he said smiling mischievously at her. She looked away embarrassed and resumed drying her hair. She dressed in a T-shirt and a sarong and left her hair loose to dry. He came and hugged her from behind wrapping his arms around her waist. He moved her hair to one side away from her neck and kissed her on her neck and her earlobe. I think I will never have enough of you. How can you be so beautiful? She turned around and placed her hands around his neck. You can always have me, I am never leaving you, but for now I am hungry, lets go and have something before it is late night and the restaurant closes. She smiled and moved away from him, but he grabbed her back and kissed her passionately. She kissed him back, and as he looked into her eyes, she moved closer to him once again, but bit his lip this time and pushed him away and ran out of the room laughing mischievously. Raghu ran behind her trying to grab her shouting, Devi, stop you devil. She walked briskly into the restaurant laughing and stopped short on seeing Divya, Anitha and others staring at her. She tried hard to maintain a neutral expression lest they would understand her feelings and embarrass her. But Raghu swiftly came behind her and caught her by her long hair. He had no inhibitions. Raghu, leave me, everyone is seeing us, she complained. Say sorry. He ordered. I will leave you. Raghu please, leave my hair, it pains. She squirmed. He came close to her and whispered in her ear. I am asking you one final time, say sorry or I will tell everyone what you did just now in the room. Sorry, now leave me. She went and sat next to Anitha looking away from him angrily. You both fought again? Anitha asked looking at Devi. Why do you ask me? Ask him, did not you see him grab my hair and hurt me? Devi shouted angrily. Well, we are done with our dinner and we are very sleepy. So, you both sit here and continue your fight and if time permits eat something, Saying that they left the table. Devi ordered her favorite chicken fry and fish curry rice when the waiter came to take order. The same for me too, Raghu told him.

He could not stop laughing seeing the childish annoyed look on her face. Seeing him laugh made her angrier. He came and sat next to her, but she tried to move away. He grabbed her near putting his arm around her waist and kissed her on her cheek. She looked around wondering if anyone saw them. Raghu, you are the most shameless person, she snarled. You know nothing yet, you are still on the first page of the book, dont give up on me so fast. He laughed as he started playing with her hair. The waiter served them and left. Devi quietly started having her dinner. Raghu started eating and suddenly cried Ouch! She looked at him and asked. What happened? Its burning, my lips are burning. But the food is not at all spicy Raghu. What happened? Its my lip, it is paining. How could you be so wild with me? See what you have done, he let out a false cry pointing his finger on his lip. Devi looked at him even more furious this time, but he winked and resumed eating. A faint smile crossed her lips which did not escape his eyes. They went for a stroll on the beach and settled in the same place where they made love last night. Raghu held her by her shoulder and tried to push her on the sand, but she leaned on her elbows and stopped. Not again, my hair will get dirty. He would not give in so easily. He took off his shirt and spread it on the sand and lay on it and pulled her to his side. She lay on the sand beside him gazing at the pleasant starry sky silently. Raghu turned sideward resting his head on his hand and placed his other hand on her stomach. What are you thinking silently? I am seeing my parents, after their death grandma once told me that they joined the other stars in the sky and they are watching me always. You miss them a lot. Devi looked at him and smiled. I miss them a lot, especially my dad. He was my best friend. You know, until he was alive I never had asked him for anything. He never gave me a chance. He knew my needs, feelings and desires even before me. My mom always complained that he was pampering me and I will

be very difficult for my husband after marriage. He would wave her off telling I will get a husband who will understand me more than he does. Raghu looked at her silently. Thats why you dont tell me anything, you want me to understand by myself? But dont you think it is very difficult? Dont you think we will have to share our feelings? Love makes anything easy. Devi replied looking into his eyes. I love you Devi. Yes, you do, but not enough to completely understand me. Raghu felt a pang in his heart. His heart could not agree with her completely. So, do you think you can understand me even if I dont share with you. Devi nodded her head. Raghu would not give up. Well, lets see how much you understand me till now. Let us have a small quiz? My favorite color? Black. Yes, my favorite pastime? Photography. Ok, My favorite dress? Cotton shirts and Denims. Aha, my favorite car? Black Land cruiser. Hey, how do you know that? Devi looked at him grinning. Next question. Ok, my favorite actor? Sylvester Stallone. Uh-oh, Actress? Madhu bala.

Hey, I dont think I maintain a diary, wait, do you know some mind reading? Yes, I read only whom I love. Ok, my favorite food. Anything homemade. Be specific? Ok, chicken fry. My favorite pet? Your German shepherd. Well, my best friend. Dinesh and Raju. Some activity I cannot live without? Exercise. Great!!!My favorite drink? Iced tea and red wine. My favorite place? Any place you can see sunrise the best. Raghu watched her with shocking expression as his mind searched for questions and wondered about her answers. Ok, the most difficult question. If you can answer this, then I will accept you win. The person I love the most. Devi looked at him and grinned. This is the easiest question. I even the first, second and third persons in your favorite list. Raghu sat up straight looking at her as she answered. The first person you love the most is your mother, then you love grandpa, then grandma, of course she is no more, then you love your dad the most, then I suppose you love me. Raghu looked at her with eyes wide open.

Devi raised her eyebrows. Stop staring at me. Devi, you drive me nuts. How can you know so much? You dont even talk to me properly? Hey!! one question? No, you said that was your last question. Hey!! Wait!! Are you not jealous that you are not the person I love the most? Your name is the forth in the list. If I am jealous I would be selfish. I cannot expect you to love me more than your parents. Raghu looked at her his eyes filled with admiration. He lay down beside her again quietly lost in his thoughts. You made me feel happy and sad at the same time Devi. I am the most happiest to have you by my side, a person who loves me so much and understands me so well. But, I dont know anything about you. You were right.' That I am. But do you know why you dont understand me? she asked. He looked at her silently. You are emotionally stupid person. He looked at her unhappily, but became angry when she burst out laughing. You make fun of me, you devil. He got up and sat up on her with his legs across her and held her arms tight and started tickling her all over her body. Raghu!! Stop it!!! she said squealing and giggling at the same time. Not so easily, you devil! he continued. Devi felt breathless unable to move with his weight over her body. I am sorry Raghu, please stop it, please I am unable to breath, please get up, she pleaded. He got up slightly still on her this time resting on his knees and continued. This time with one hand still gripping her hands tightly, He let his other hand under her shirt and started tickling her nipples. She tried to move away contorting her body in vain. Finally, she stopped struggling and looked at him with seducing eyes and said. Raghu, lets go to the room? He released her and got up along with her. As he took his shirt and started wearing it, Devi looked at him and shouted. Emotional stupid, and ran away. He ran behind her angrily into the room and pinned her down on the bed.

I am not going to leave you today; I will teach you a lesson. What will you do? she questioned in a challenging tone. Do anything that I cannot enjoy. She continued laughing. He looked at her perplexed. She rolled over on the bed and came on top of him. She sat on him, little below his stomach, her softness clearly pressing against his hardness turning him rock hard. He gazed at her in amazement as she took off her shirt. She took his hands and guided him to her back towards her bra hooks and challenged him raising her eyebrows. Do everything Raghu, everything you can to me. He got up and unsnapped her bra as she sat on him with her legs crossed behind him. Her sarong gave away revealing her thighs that glimmered in the soft light of the room. He looked at her dark nipples hungrily and took one of them into his mouth hungrier than ever. His passion for her multiplied and his hunger only grew as he realized that she approached him leaving all traces of inhibition. He grabbed her breasts and savored them like a tiger devouring its prey. He lifted her slightly and pulled off his shorts and guided his hardness into her as she screamed with joy. He gripped her hips and guided her back and forth accelerating every second until she panted heavily. He pushed her onto her stomach on the bed and went inside her from behind this time. She cried in ecstasy as he lifted her slightly and continued stroking hard until he released his seed. They both fell on the bed panting heavily looking at each other with satiation and drifted to sleep. Raghu awoke the next morning to see Devi still in deep sleep beside him. He turned facing her and smiled remembering how she kindled him the previous night. She slept like a child half covered under the blanket that moved slightly with her breathing. Her long hair swayed gently on her face revealing her lips and straight nose in between. He gently pulled away the blanket that little covered her to get a full view of her body. He lay by her side admiring her body, her white velvety skin, her dark brown nipples and her luscious curves. She woke up slowly as she felt cool air on her body and opened her eyes as she moved her hair covering her eyes. She smiled shyly seeing Raghu looking at her naked body and tried to pull up the blanket, but he would not let her cover. Raghu, please give me the blanket. I am feeling awkward. Why? What happened? Did you forget how you enticed yesterday night? he asked her sporting an impish smile. Her cheeks flushed hearing his comments. Please Raghu, I have to go to bathroom. Go on, I did not stop you. He said teasingly. She sat up on the bed and looked around for something to grab, towel or her skirt or any other dress, but could not find anything near.

He pushed her onto the bed as she looked at him helplessly and started off again. I cannot have enough of you ever. He quickly got into her without wasting a single moment and started stroking her as he simultaneously grabbed one of her breasts into his mouth while he massaged her other breast. She let out muffled screams of pleasure as he thrust himself deeper and deeper into her and released into her once again. She lay on the bed panting heavily totally spent by his lovemaking. You can go to the bathroom now, he said breathing heavily looking at her. I cannot. You have drained me out, she said in a muffled voice. He got up and carried her to the bathroom and placed her down on the cold bathroom floor. He stepped back smiling at her closing the bathroom door behind. His stomach rumbled with hunger as he sat on the chair and wondered if she too felt the same. He ordered room service for a quick breakfast. He called Anil and asked them to leave for the day activities without waiting for them. As Devi and Raghu approached the beach, they could see that the others had already indulged into water sports. He had convinced her to wear a skirted swimsuit so that she could at least step into and enjoy in the shallow waters of the beach. No one asked her to get into water after hearing her story the other day. She tried to settle down on the beach sand watching others, but Raghu came and stood beside her and said. Lets go, he said extending his hand. She looked at him quietly her eyes filled with fear. Trust me, I will be there always by your side, come with me. I will give you an experience of a lifetime. Come. She took his hand and walked towards the waters, but stopped short when she realized that he was taking her for kayaking. Raghu, I cannot come to this, please spare me, she asked in a pleading voice. You need not worry Mam, we have taken care of your safety and the sea is very pleasant today, an instructor spoke up as he approached them with two life jackets in his hand. Raghu took both the jackets; he wore one of them and made her wear the other. As he clasped the jacket on her body, he squeezed her hand gently and took her into the water.

The instructor guided her to sit in the kayak as Raghu followed her and sat in front of her. Her hands trembled as she took the paddle into her hands. She could pay no attention to the instructor. All the time her mind was focused on the waves splashing towards them. Mam, are you listening? The instructor questioned interjecting her thoughts. Raghu turned towards her as she tried to focus on the instructions. After the instructor was done, he came close to her and cupped her face into his hands. If you fall into water, remember only me and call only my name. Dont think of anything else. Dont forget, I am always there by your side, he said looking into her eyes. She nodded and smiled at him weakly. She sat there quietly gripping the paddle tightly in her hand as Raghu started paddling leading the kayak slowly into the waters. Look at me, only me Devi, dont focus on the water. Shift your focus and try to paddle, stay in sync with me, Raghu instructed her slightly looking back at her. Devi started paddling slowly and as she got herself to paddle in rhythm with Raghu ignored how far they had come into the water. Raghu stopped paddling and turned around looking at her and asked her to look around. Devis heart was filled with shock and amazement at the same time to see that they were in the midst of waters far away from the shore. He came forward and kissed her lightly on her lips. She looked at him her eyes filled with gratitude and love. She realized that he was not yet done with her when they reached the shore. Hey Raghu, right on time, like to join us for the ride, Divya asked him pointing at the banana boat. Sure, thats great, he said and walked towards the boat not letting out Devis hand from his grip. Are you sure taking Devi along? she asked. Raghu looked at Devi with a smile. She could not hide the tension in her face, but she knew that Raghu was not letting her free today. She smiled faintly while her stomach cramped. Devi sat in the center of the boat and Raghu settled behind her. Time for revenge, he whispered in her ear. Remember Yesterday night? She looked back at him her eyes filled with panic as he burst out laughing. Listen, try to stay afloat, relax and stay calm when you fall in the water. Try to swim. Remember, I will be there by your side, I will come and hold you.

Cannot I stay back, should I do this? Yes, he replied firmly. It was awesome at first when the boat sped at less speed. But as the ski picked up speed and started making tight turns Devi found it hard to hold onto the boat and stay. Finally, in one hard turn, the banana boat flipped and everyone fell into the water screaming out loud. Devi closed her eyes tight as she fell into the sea and water splashed on her face. She felt like water was sucking her down. She held her breath and tried hard to not swallow the salt water. She wrestled her arms and kicked the water under her legs. She tried to blank out all her fears and concentrated on Raghus words. She stayed calm without panicking as the life vest pulled her to the surface automatically. When she did not feel water touching her face she opened her eyes slowly to see Raghu in front of her smiling. He reached for her hand and pulled her near. You are here, she asked as she tried to breathe. I was always there, you did not see me, and you had shut your eyes. She hugged him tight and tried to breath hard as he took her back to the boat and helped her climb on it. She rested on the sand quietly as tears came out of her unknowingly. Raghu came and sat beside her. How was it? he asked smiling at her. I thought you are scared of water? I was, but I think I am not anymore, Devi replied. Think? Be sure or I can take you once again, Raghu asked laughing. Sure, but I am hungry. Hungry, for that I will have to take you to the room, he said with a sheepish smile. She punched him in his stomach and said. I am talking about this hunger. The group had fun for the entire day playing beach volleyball and swimming. We have to leave early in the morning, it was real fun here, Anitha said having dinner. Back to that crazy life, no time to rest and no time to eat, Divya continued. Devi looked at Raghu and smiled, but the pain that filled her eyes did not escape his attention. They went for a stroll on the beach not realizing how far they had walked silently. Devi walked absently for some time when she suddenly realized that Raghu was not walking along. She looked back to see Raghu resting on the beach sand and walked back and sat quietly next to him. Only after a while did she realize that, he was sitting in the same place where they made love the earlier day. She looked at him with a

smile. He took his camera and set its self-timer and sat next to her and pulled her into his lap and captured their best picture. That moment and this place will always remain captured in my memory forever, he said as he turned her and kissed her passionately. I wish this moment will stop still here Raghu. I wish we can be here like this forever. We will come back here holidaying whenever possible, he said stroking her cheeks. Do you like any other place where you like to go? he asked her. I dont have any list of famous holiday spots. However, I like to spend my time in my Gurujis ashram near NagarjunSagar. I go there whenever I feel disturbed. I feel at peace there. She smiled at him. We will go together there sometime; even I wish to meet your Guruji once. They made love on the beach till mid-night caressing and drinking into each others body. When they started to feel the cold winds piercing their body they headed to the hotel room. Devi woke up drowsily the next day morning; she sat up startled not finding Raghu next to her. She quickly wrapped herself in a towel and searched for him in the bathroom. She saw that it was 9 O clock and not finding him in the room thought that he had already left to finish the checkout process. She had a quick shower absentmindedly and started to pack her clothes when he entered the room. What are you doing? he asked. I am sorry I am late, I will finish packing fast, she said as she folded the clothes quickly. He hugged her from the back and pushed her on top of the bed amidst the pile of clothes and started kissing her. What are you doing Raghu? We are getting late, she exclaimed trying to get up. However, he pinned her down. We are already late, others have left, he said as he continued kissing her on the curve of her neck. What? They left, but how, what will we do now? she continued puzzled. He lifted his head and asked her with a puzzled expression. What do we do now? Let us continue what we are doing for may be another three days. She tried to part his lips from hers as he started to kiss her again and looked at him quizzically. I told you I can never have enough of you. So, I thought I will have to try for a few more days. He smiled. You are crazy, she remarked as she wrapped her arms and legs around him.

They had a lovely champagne breakfast leisurely in the restaurant and went on to visit the famous Dona Paula Beach. Raghu immersed himself in capturing the picturesque location while Devi silently stood by listening to the tourist guide as the guide narrated to a tourist group the tragic love story of Dona Paula. She moved away from the crowd quickly and went and hugged Raghu tightly and kissed him trying to clear the thoughts of separation from her distraught mind. Raghu embraced her, but was confused with her public display of affection. What happened? he asked looking into her eyes. Nothing, she said and tried to control herself. They went shopping crazily in the flea markets of Goa. By the time, they reached the hotel their stomach was craving for food, so they directly walked into the restaurant. They occupied a corner table in the beach side open restaurant and quickly order for dinner. I will quickly refresh and come back by the time dishes arrive, Devi excused herself. Raghu noticed that a family at the next table was staring at them. After sometime, Raghu noticed a man of the family call him out. That lady who was with you, is she your wife? Look out there, someone is teasing her, the old man said pointing at the beach. Raghu looked towards the way the man pointed to see that three guys were behind Devi trying to tease her. He looked back at the old man and said, No problem Uncle, she will manage. The family looked confused hearing his response. They saw that Devi shouted the guys first and warned them to leave her alone. But when they did not pay heed, she suddenly bent down and took a handful of sand and splashed the sand on their faces. As soon as they were distracted screaming in pain trying to get rid of the dirt in their eyes, she knocked them down leaving heavy blows on their stomach and knees and punched them hard on their nose. She came and sat down quietly next to Raghu as though nothing happened. The members at the next table watched Devi in awe. Raghu could not stop laughing seeing the shocking look on their faces. He pulled Devi near and whispered Devil in her ears and kissed her lightly on her cheek. You saw? Why did you not come? Devi looked at him. I dont think you needed me. Raghu smiled at her. I need you always by my side Raghu. Did you forget? You told once that you dont need my help. That time was different. Now, I want you always by my side. It feels good to have you with me. Raghu looked at her admiringly. He offered some Feni to her, but she refused.

Try it out; you should not leave Goa without drinking this special drink. And I promise, I will not take any pictures this time. She smiled at him and tasted a bit of it first, and then she had to admit that it tasted really good. They wined and dined happily talking about everything and nothing in the world. Raghu would not leave her for a second. He would always pull her close to him for the entire time. He insisted on having food from a single plate and kept on fondling with her long hair. Devi was feeling a bit conscious of his public display of affection, but was delighted at the same time. They wined after eating up their dinner for some more time enjoying the songs the DJ played. The waiter came to their table and handed Devi a small white slip. It read- I am delighted to have you here Mam. We will feel lucky if you could come to the stage and sing a song for us- DJ Rajan. Devi looked up towards the stage. She smiled at the DJ and gestured a No. Do you know him? Raghu asked. I met him once at a party. Why dont you sing? No, not now, I have no mood. She continued sipping wine. Will you sing for me once? Even I am eager to hear you once, said Raghu looking at her. Devi looked back at the DJ and nodded Yes this time. It is my great pleasure to announce that my favorite singer, one of the best singers of our time, is dining with us tonight. I request Mrs. Lakshmi to please come on stage and delight us with her beautiful voice, DJ announced. Devi went up on the stage and sang a melodious song. The air went still and the noisy crowd suddenly fell silent enthralled in her beautiful voice. The crowd applauded and cried out, once more, once more. The DJ insisted her to sing one more song. She sang a foot tapping song highlighting her husky voice. The crowd tapped their feet and clapped their hands as she performed. The crowd surrounded her after the performance for autographs. She came back and sat next to him humbly after signing the autographs. How do you do it with such an ease? You are an enchantress. It is dangerous to have you around always, Raghu asked. You are a Diva, people are crazy about you, but you behave like no one.

I was no one Raghu some time back. We should never forget where we started from. It is better to always have feet on the ground. Do you mind if I kiss you right now? he asked. I cannot wait until we go back to room. She bent her head low and started laughing. Shall we dance? she asked him looking at the dance floor getting occupied. You can find better ways to tease me, he replied. I am serious; I want to dance with you. Of course, I cannot force you. Will you lead me? he said. She extended and got up and walked towards the dance floor. She took his right hand into her left and placed his left hand on her shoulder. Then she placed her left hand on his right shoulder with her arm over his arm. She started moving slowly to the sides rocking her feet and hip sideways and guided him to do the same. When she felt that he was following it well, she lead him to the next steps asking him to step front and back in slow rocking movements. Nevertheless, slowly, she realized that he was dancing at ease, as though he had got his basics right. Soon, they were dancing making turns, picking up speed until their steps were completely in alignment with the rhythm. Devi was in awe seeing Raghu dance with her in such an ease. You learnt dance? she asked him as he turned her around and brought her back and pressed her against his body. He continued dancing without answering and suddenly lifted her up. She did not expect him to do this, he took her to his back totally and brought her back from his left side and as she landed on the floor softly kissed her on her lips. She stood there dumbstruck; many others on the dance floor stopped dancing and started clapping them encouraging their dance. They continued dancing for a few more minutes and exited the dance floor after sometime. You did not answer, she persisted as they strolled on the beach. Good right, there is something about me that you dont know, he continued walking. Raghu, no more suspense, tell me, you were great on the floor, from when have you been learning to dance? she asked. She stopped waiting for answer, but when he continued walking without answering, she came running behind him and jumped on his back wrapping her arms and legs around him. Tell me or I will never get off your back, she asked tickling him in his ears and pulling his hair. Raghu turned his head back and looked at her. Kiss me until I am exhausted and I will tell you.

She persisted and did not get off his back. When he walked farther away from the crowd, she turned his head back towards her and kissed him passionately. He brought her to the front without parting their lips and continued to kiss. He pushed her to the sand and collapsed on top of her and continued kissing her expecting her to stop him. Nonetheless, she did not stop him, she indulged more passionately. They parted after a while. Raghu said, you are very adamant, looking at her. She looked silently at him waiting for an answer. I learnt salsa when I was in college. You never told. No one at home knows? None at home encouraged music and dance, but I liked the fun part of it, so I just learnt dance for one year when I was in college without mentioning at home. Then, why did you stop? Then, you came home after your parents death. You talked about learning music and dance. That was when I realized how much grandpa detested all these. So, I immediately stopped. She looked at him in unhappily. What happened? he asked dragging her into his lap. I could not stop like you. I hurt their emotions badly. But, I did not have any alternative. This was my parents dying wish. They always saw me as a performer, wanted me to reach great heights. I wonder if Grandpa will ever forgive me. he will, he is aged and people at his age need time to adjust to changes, he said trying to comfort her. Are you with me in this Raghu? Will you ever try to stop me for any reason? I have still a long way to go. I will never interfere with your dreams and life Devi. I expect a level of independence when it comes to my work and I agree that you too need the same. They got up and walked to their room. What all dance forms do you know? he asked her. I know Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, salsa and a bit of hip-hop. Do you know belly dancing? he asked as they entered the room. I am a bit amateur; I cannot do it well like other dance forms. Do it, he said.

What now? she exclaimed. Yes, right now, he said and played a Hindi song that had enough beats needed for a belly dance. She started dancing as she framed suitable steps in her mind, but he stopped her. He reached her and unbuttoned the bottom buttons of her shirt and tied the shirt into a knot above her belly. Start now, he said as he replayed the music. By now, she had framed enough steps in her mind. She swayed her belly rhythmically and danced in a way that her belly had formed a life of its own. He continued watching her. His eyes filled with lust. He pulled her to the bed immediately after she was done and kissed her hard on her navel. This is the best part of your body, he said as he made love to her. Raghu woke up the next day morning and was surprised to see numerous missed calls on his mobile. He wondered since he had already arranged for alternates at work. All the calls were from his Mom. He walked to the balcony and made a call to not disturb Devis sleep. Devi woke up and could hear Raghu talking. I will be there by tomorrow night Mom.Nothing exceptional. I just wanted to relax for some more time. You know how busy and exhausted I was in the past days. She woke up and quietly left into the bathroom. She did not want to think about or discuss anything that disturbed their happiness. The next two days were filled with fun. They spent the days roaming around on the beach, indulging in water sports and making love under moonlight. Devi handed over a small gift after they boarded the flight for their return journey. Nonetheless,, she stopped him from opening it. Open it when I am not with you, she said. He simply smiled at her. I mean when I am never there for you. When you know that we are never going to be together, she said. Stop it Devi, I dont like this nonsense, he said and returned the gift. I will never open this gift. So I dont think I need it. I will leave it in your wardrobe, she said and quietly sat next to him. Devi felt like all her energy and life were sucked out as soon as she stepped into home. Raghu started off his daily routine in the usual way. Nevertheless,, Devi was unable to maintain her calm. How much ever she tried to be happy, she could feel that Kamalamma and Suseela despised her lot more than before. She knew that they would have understood Raghus closeness to her by now. The

days were packed for both Raghu and Devi as both struggled to make up for the extra holiday they had expended. Devi packed her day with three recordings as she had lawyer appointment the next day. The case was coming to trial in three days and the prosecutor, Rajeev Sharma, had asked for an elaborate discussion. It was in the evening when Raghu called her to his office and compelled her to come cancelling her pending work. Devi detested the meeting as soon as she entered the room and saw Minister Laxmi Narayana and his men there. However, she tried to stay comfortable seeing DGP Uncle and Dinesh also in the room. Minister Sir here wanted to talk to you Devi, so we had to call you, DGP Uncle started. Devi nodded quietly. I understand you are a busy woman Mrs. Raghu, thanks for taking out time to meet me, Minister said with a grin. I did not know I was meeting you Mr. Laxmi Narayana, she replied in a neutral tone. You seem to be a straight forward person Mrs. Raghu, so, let me put my point straight. My son is only 20-year old. You understand children at this age tend to be childish. What is done is past? Let my son go off, he continued. What do you want me to do? she asked trying to maintain her calm while her blood boiled with anger. Just tell in the court that you did not see my sons face clearly. My lawyer will manage rest of the matters, he replied. And what happens to the girl? Whatever happened to her? she questioned him. I will promise financial aid to that girl that she would not have imagined in her lifetime Mrs. Raghu. So, that will compensate for her pain and her loss. Do you think your money will bury her loss and humiliation? Why do you worry so much Mrs. Raghu? What do you do with so many women you rescue? You will provide them with a small job at the most. I will give her money that she would have not seen in her entire lifetime. And anyway, she was getting sold off. With this incident, she landed up in benefit. Now, let us talk about your benefits. You are a celebrity, why do you want to get into this scandal and spoil your image. This will only waste your time. If you dont agree my lawyer here has hundred other ways to get my son out of this. But, your image and future will be spoiled. I hope you care for your life more than that girl. Devis blood boiled with rage. I had enough of this rubbish, she shouted when Raghu got up and stopped her. Devi, you leave for home, he said in a calm voice.

She looked at him startled. But Raghu, this person is talking I said leave, Raghu commanded her seriously with a sharp look in his eyes. Devi looked at him immobile. Leave!! he repeated. Devi stormed out of the room in rage. Your wife seems to be a furious person Mr. Raghu. She does not understand the implications of standing against me. You are an intelligent person, talk to her about this, the Minister talked to Raghu. Devi stood outside the room unable to make a move. She felt dejected. She wondered on Raghus behavior. I will not tolerate this for anyone, not even for Raghu, she thought. She slightly opened the room door, but stopped short after hearing Raghus voice and eavesdropped looking through the small opening. My wife is ignorant of your power Minister Sir. But, I know very well about you. And I know the ways to deal with filthy rats like you and your son, he said as he held the Minister by gunpoint. DGP, Dinesh, lawyer and Ministers secretary gaped at this sudden move of Raghu. I wonder how much you know about me. Let me tell you. I am a very impatient person and I dont believe in discussions and court trials like my wife. Do you know why your son is alive until now? It is because of my wife. I had tried to convince her, but she would not understand. She wants to proceed abiding to the law. So, let her do quietly. If you try to play any of your dirty games, always remember, you have to take me before her. Raghu turned towards DGP as he put back his gun in its place. I am sorry sir, but I have some important works to get to. saying that he saluted the DGP and walked out as the Minister, with a pale face, looked at him. Devi sat in her car and asked Ramani to drive off. What happened? Ramani asked seeing her disturbed face. Devi left the office just before Raghu walked out of the room. As she settled in the car and calmed herself down and recalled what she witnessed she burst out laughing. Whats up Madam? You just now looked disturbed and now you are laughing? Ramani asked her. When Devi shared with her, she said, Sir loves you a lot Madam. You need not worry about any danger in the world until he is by your side. Raghu walked into the bedroom as Devi quietly gazed at him. I am sorry Devi, let me explain, I asked you to leave because he started to explain but Devi turned away arranging wardrobe.

Raghu could not see the faint smile on her lips and continued. I did not like the way that Minister was talking to you, please understand, he continued turning Devi around. Devi could no more hide her smile and burst out laughing. She put her arms around him and kissed him tight on his lips. You need not explain, she said looking into his eyes. He smiled back and hugged her happily. Devi and Raghu left early the next day to meet the prosecutor. They spent time until noon discussing with the lawyer on the witnesses and the strategies that defense would deploy. It is a very sensitive case Mrs. Devi. Malini did not confront with the guys; it is only you who had directly seen them before they escaped. The video did not capture Madhukar directly, and you as well saw him for a short moment when he ran past you. The defense is going to use this to nullify your witness. The other two guys Shyam and Surya are trapped. Moreover, you have to understand the defenses play, the lawyer will ask you indecent and insensitive questions to threaten and weaken your stance. You will have to prepare yourself mentally. the lawyer continued. Ask me the questions? Devi replied. Place yourself in defense lawyers position and ask me all the questions, she continued. The lawyer continued with his cross questioning for almost an hour and was marveled at Devis response. He understood that Devi was rock hard and would not budge easily in court. He rarely spends time at home now a day, Kamalamma told when Suseela was alone in her room. She sticks to him all the time, does not let him out of sight for a moment, she continued. Suseela silently listened to her mother. She too understood that Raghu and Devi had grown closer. She had rarely entered their room after their marriage. Earlier, Raghus room was clumsy and she had to send the maids to arrange his things, but now, he rarely needed the maids. Devi was taking care of everything. Their intimacy did not escape attention of anybody at home and everyone was thrilled about the change. She would have been the happiest person to see her son happy, but, she could not delight herself. While her son was happy after Devi reentered his life, she had to part with her brother, who she felt like her elder son. He will never enter my house nor be part of any of this familys celebrations until Devi is at home, she thought. Pratap Rao despised Devi as she was Jyotis daughter. He felt infuriated after Jyoti left him for some other person. He married Yamuna after five years, but never loved her with his heart. Yamuna was not very good looking, but she was a very sensitive and caring person, however, she could not take place of Jyoti in his heart. He detested her and their son Karthik who was also dark-skinned like her. He outpoured his love only for Pooja. His disapproval for Karthik further increased when Karthik chose to become a writer unlike others in the family. He felt a writers job low; he compared his son to others in the family who studied well and held high profile jobs and business occupations. Karthik slowly distanced himself from his father, he only wanted his mother to come and stay with him in Chennai

away from the humiliated life. But, Yamuna never left Prataps side. Suseela understood that her brothers behavior had worsened further when Devi returned. It had been over two months since Pooja came home, but never once did he visit her. Suseela spoke with him a few days back and urged him to come and wish Pooja good luck for her exam next week. Yamuna had come the next day; Suseela doubted if he would come. The case came to court the next day. The trial was held by camera. Raghu and Devi requested everyone at home to stay calm and not come to court in order to avoid media glare. The prosecutor after filing and elaborating the entire case details sought life imprisonment to the accused. The defense tried to prove that Madhukar was out of town on the day of the incident and produced some other guy instead of him. The guy admitted that he was present on that day and tried to assault the girl. Devi maintained her stance that she had seen Madhukar clearly in that building that day. The judge adjourned the court session for next week. The Minister held a lengthy discussion with the defense lawyer to find any way to rescue his son. The lawyer clearly told him that Devi was the key witness and the case would be unfavorable unless her witness could be damaged. Prosecutor expressed his confidence after the court session and encouraged Devi to maintain her firm stand. Raghu however was frustrated; he doubted if the Minister would stay quiet. What happened? You look disturbed Devi questioned him as she sat next to him in their bedroom. That Minister is a rogue. From the case, we know that he has relations with the Mafia and terrorists. I am unable to gather sufficient proof against him. I am also sure that he will not stay quiet, he will go to any extent to free his son, he replied. We have truth by our side Raghu. We have nothing to worry, Devi tried to comfort him stroking his hair. You are trying to comfort me Devi? Are you not worried that your life is in danger? he asked her. Worry, Not with you by my side, she replied smiling at him. He kissed her his eyes filled with a lot of love for her. Pooja had her medical entrance exam the next day. Pratap Rao directly met her in the examination hall to wish her good luck. Pooja would not leave his hand and started crying when he started to leave without coming home. He loved her a lot and could never see sorrow in her eyes. He did not want to spoil her moment of happiness, so he unwillingly came home with her. Suseela was delighted to see him at home. Everyone at home congratulated Pooja for doing exam well and sat down talking when Devi entered the house. She saw Pratap Rao but quickly looked away. She extended her hand and congratulated Pooja for her exam. Pooja extended her hand back but stopped short on hearing her father shout from behind.

You need not handshake with every nasty person in the world, he reprimanded Pooja. Pooja looked at him startled. And you, dont you ever touch my daughter with your dirty hands, he shouted at Devi. Devi looked at him infuriated. I was just congratulating her. You need not, I hate to see you even and dont you dare touch my daughter or talk to her again. She is precious to me, and she need not mingle with illicit people like you. He screamed at her. I am respecting you for your age, you dont talk to me like that, Devi replied trying to control her emotions. How else should I talk to women like you? You and your mother are whores. He continued. Suseela and Yamuna came forward to stop him. They tried to drag him back, but he stood there firm glaring into her eyes. Anger welled up in her replacing the hurt that she had felt. "Dont you ever, EVER, insult my mother again!" she shouted sticking a finger in his face. Your mother was a bitch; God knows how many men she had slept with before she left me. You come from nowhere to ruin my nephews life now. Devis head started spinning as each of his words struck her like lightning. Tears welled up her eyes as she raised her hand inadvertently and slapped him. She felt her hand struck hard against a cheek, but she only realized the next moment that Suseela had come in between and she had struck her face hard. Devi stood there shaking, her mind still numb, when someone grabbed her by her shoulder and pulled her aside. How dare you slap my mother? Do you even realize what you have done? Raghu screamed at her, his eyes blazing with anger. Pratap rao stormed out of the house. Suseela slumped in the couch with Yamuna, Kamalamma and Pooja next to her while Kalavathi and Sirisha stood numb trying to comprehend the situation. Devi stood immobile in a trance, she slowly realized her fault. II did not mean to. She tried to explain. Say Sorry, to my mother. He screamed at her, looking at her in rage. Let me explain Raghu. I did not mean to slap your mother. You dont know what happened, she tried to talk choking for words. Enough, I dont want to listen to any excuses. Say sorry right now, he screamed at her. Let me explain Raghu.

Kalavathi and Sirisha approached them. Sirisha tried to talk, but stopped on seeing Raghus furious face. Apologize right now. I will never tolerate anyone insulting my mother like this. You dont know what happened, why I had to? I care a damn about any reason, are you saying sorry or? Or what Raghu? What will you do if I dont? she asked him back. She felt humiliated as he was not ready to even hear her explanation. No one ever insulted my Mother like this. If it was anyone else, I would have killed him by now. You can be my wife only if you respect my Mother. Are you telling me that you will leave me? Devi, dont drag this matter, Sirisha and Kalavathi tried to interject. So, you will leave me without even hearing my explanation? Devi continued. Enough Devi! I am not going to tolerate your egoistic behavior for another second also. Say sorry and end this, or else, you have no place in this house. Fine, give me five minutes, I will pack my things and leave this house, she said and stormed into her room as Kalavathi and Sirisha followed her. Devi, dont make decisions in haste. Let Uncle and others come home. We can sit and discuss. Sirisha tried to convince her. However, Devi continued packing paying no heed. She clumsily dumped all her belongings into bags and called for the maid. She shouted at the maid to keep all the bags in her car immediately. Kalavathi tried to stop her, but declined on hearing Devis words. Aunt, if you compel me to stay back here at the cost of my self-respect, I rather die. Raghu watched her, his eyes filled with anger, as she climbed down the stairs and left the house. He left into his room silently. How can she be so adamant and egoistic? he cursed. He slept on the bed silently staring at the ceiling. Sankar Rao entered the room screaming at Raghu. His heart was filled with rage when Kalavathi explained everything. He looked furiously at Kamalamma when she tried to talk. How could you send her without understanding the circumstances? he shouted at Raghu. Kalavathi sat next to him and explained the entire incident. She insulted Mom, I will never tolerate that, and whatever was the reason.

I am bringing her back home. We can sit and discuss everything, Sankar Rao said. No Dad, she is not coming back home unless she apologizes to Mom. But if you bring her back at your will, she will not stay here as my wife. Sankar Rao left into his room helpless. Suseela, you know this is wrong. Correct the situation before everything goes wrong. Dont let your love for your brother shadow truth. He said and quietly went to bed. I have to go and meet Devi tomorrow early morning, he thought. He tried many times, but he could not reach her on any of her numbers. Raghu could not sleep for the entire night. He groped for his uniform and belongings after bath. Half of the wardrobes were empty, and things were scattered. The entire room reminded him her absence. He quickly dressed up and searched for his tie in the drawer when his hand fell on a small gift. He took it into his hands and immediately recognized it and also remembered Devis words when he did not accept it. His mind was totally confused. What did she mean? he thought as he opened the wrapper. There was a CD inside. He sat on the bed and played the CD in his laptop. Hi Dear!! he heard Devis voice looking at him and smiling happily at him. His heart wrenched. He felt like he did not want to see her face again as he remembered her behavior last night. But, as he recognized the place she was sitting, he felt a sadness fill his heart. She was sitting on the beach next to a rock where they had spent their first intimate moments. Devi continued talking in the video. So you are watching this video? It means that, well, we have parted our ways and here I am sitting alone in our favorite place. So, you understood by now that I was always prepared for this day when I will be left alone again. I am prepared and I am used to loneliness always unlike you. So, I realize you would need some help, but I would not be there by your side, so let me see if this video can help you. I know you will be sad and devastated. But dont you worry; it is not your fault. You know? When you have to choose between two people you love the most, it is very difficult. And when time comes I know that you will not choose me. After all, I am the fourth in the list of your beloved ones. She continued laughing. She could not hide the sorrow in her eyes even in the video. Raghu, remember, I love you. I had always loved you and I will always love you, wherever I am. And we need not be together to love each other right? So, I know you will also love me always. You cannot hate me even if you want to, so stay happy. Good Bye. Raghu sat there immobile glaring at the blank screen. He jolted and came to conscious when his phone went abuzz. Raghu, quickly come to DGPs office, it is an emergency, Dinesh spoke at the other end.

Raghu stormed out of the house and left for office. His mind was filled with Devis words. And as he tried to come to terms with her sayings, he reached office. Where is Devi? DGP questioned as soon as Raghu entered the room. You let her leave home? he asked. Sir, it is personal matter Even I dont have interest in your personal matters Mr. Raghu. All I am concerned about is her security and that was your responsibility. Why did you let her leave without security? DGP interjected. Raghu looked at him and back at Dinesh confused. Dinesh started to explain. Devi reached orphanage yesterday night as per Ramani. She did not utter a single word to anyone and asked to be left alone. Her Uncle and Aunt went to her room to talk to her in the morning, but could not find her. She had left without informing anyone. No one knows where she is. She has not even taken her cellphone along with her nor did she go by her car. We are trying to trace her whereabouts. Raghu stood there dead numb as he heard Dineshs words. His head was spinning as he felt that his worst fears were coming true. I never expected such recklessness from your end Raghu. You know her life is in threat because of that Minister. We have traced some calls of Ministers close associates. They were keeping an eye on her always. In the last call, we heard them discussing about her being alone. DGP continued. Raghu did not seem to hear him anymore. He drew out his mobile from his pocket and quickly made a call. Where are you? he asked as soon as the other person picked up the call. Are you watching her? Where is she now? he asked. Ok, be careful and alert. Are you carrying your guns? Ok. Stay close to her. If needed reveal your identity to her. There is a threat. I am coming immediately, until then take care. Sir, she is in NagarjunSagar. I am leaving for her immediately. He said and stormed out of the room. He left taking along one sub inspector and six constables along with him. The Minister had many associates and sources in the department, so, Raghu was never satisfied with the security Devi had. She moved around a lot of places for work assignments. He had arranged for a private security at his own discretion. No one knew about it. Nonetheless, he wondered if the two security personnel will be able to guard her until he reached.

Devi reached the Ashram in a taxi alone in the morning. She did not discuss anything with Guruji and his wife. She sat on a rock silently watching the waterfalls. Her eyes had dried with no more tears left. She remembered each of the marriage vows they had done to each other. Ever vow was left unfulfilled. She always prepared herself to part with Raghu, but still could not come to terms with what happened. He did not even listen to me once, he did not let me explain once, she thought. I hate you Raghu, I hate you, not because you left me, but because you could not understand me. I was right, you can never understand me, she cursed. She was unaware of two men watching her intently hiding behind a tree. Suddenly a man came running towards her and pushed her aside. He grabbed her by her arm and dragged her behind a tree. Devi was startled by this sudden movement. She tried to escape, but stopped short on hearing a gun shot. The man who grabbed her drew out a gun from his pocket and started shooting. Devi looked at the way he was shooting from behind the tree and saw that there were around ten goons trying to come towards her. One another man hiding behind a tree few feet away shouted at him. Run away Ramana, take care of Madam, I will deal with these guys. However, Devi understood that there was no way to escape without getting shot. There was no place to run, it was open waterfalls location with many trees, but the trees were also far apart. Devi soon understood the men came to protect her, but were running short of bullets. The man next to her too realized this. we have to run Madam, you have to run as fast as you can, he looked at her. She nodded. While the goons shot at them hiding behind trees, the man took her hand and started running. He tried to stay close to her in an attempt to protect her from the bullets, but fell down when a bullet pierced his knee. Devi quickly dragged him and ran towards an ancient collapsed house nearby. The house had just two walls to provide momentary protection. The man drew out his phone and made a quick call. Sir, we are dropping out. You have to come quick. The firing stopped suddenly. Devi and the man realized that the other man was taken down. Both of them tried to contemplate if there was any way to escape. But, all the place had was waterfalls and trees. They could hear footsteps coming near. Madam, they are coming near, run away as fast as you can while I try to deal with them. There are only two bullets left in this, he said handing over a gun to Devi.

Devi disliked the idea of leaving him alone, but at the same time knew that there was no other way to escape. They got up slowly, as Devi got ready to run away and he got ready to run towards the goons, but stopped short when they could hear firing again. Devi looked from the cracks of the wall and was shocked to see Raghu. Madam, Sir is here, we have nothing to fear, the man said. But two of the goons had already approached the wall. The man struggled with one of the goons while Devi shot the remaining two bullets at the other goon and ran away towards the waterfalls. A third goon ran behind her, she quickly punched him on his nose and tried to run away, but she was too late. One another man came and knocked her down punching hard on her stomach. However, He quickly collapsed as he got shot in his back. Devi lay on the floor writhing in pain as Raghu came running towards her. Nevertheless, he was late; the man got up and pushed Devi hard. It was only then Devi realized that she was on the edge of the waterfalls. She slid down a steep wet rock wall, and then clung to a boulder in the river before being washed downstream by the strong current. Raghu jumped behind her with no second thought. Raghu landed at the bottom of the stream and swam up quickly his eyes searching for Devi. He looked around and saw Devi floating away with the current. He swam fast and grabbed her by her arm and took her onto a nearby rock. He tried to bring her to conscious as he patted her cheeks and screamed on her to wake up. He lifted her head and tried to put her on his lap. A chill went through his spine when he felt the warm liquid on his fingers. Blood was oozing out from the back of Devis head. Raghus hands were trembling as he waited outside the operation theater. His world had come to a still. Each moment had become a lifetime for him. He cursed himself. I left her, she was right. I was never to be by her side. I should have never entered her life. The surgeon came out and said, There is nothing to worry. It is a very minor head injury with no blood clots. It did not need any surgery. She will be conscious soon. Raghu felt his breath after a long time. He entered the room; he was seeing Devi in this state for the second time in his life. He sat next to her and took her palm into his hand as tears that he had held back for a long time escaped his eyes. I understand everything now, he said looking at her. But, what should I do now? he asked. He quietly sat on a chair next to her bed and drifted to sleep unknowingly. Devi gained consciousness and slowly opened her eyes to see Raghu sleeping next to her.

I will always remain by your side, she remembered his words. Tears escaped her eyes. She felt too weak and again closed her eyes. She woke up again after a few hours and saw him. She tried to take out her palm from his hands, but he woke up feeling the movement. She looked at him her eyes filled with pain and hatred. But, he could only return love and remorse. Unable to tolerate anymore, she looked away. They did not utter a word to each other until she got discharged the next day. Your husband loves you a lot Madam. He did not sleep for the last two days. He was in lot of pain. He did not leave your side for a single moment. I saw tears in his eyes. The nurse told Devi as she helped Devi to dress before discharge. Devi and Raghu sat quietly in the car trying to not look at each other. She felt that she had nothing left in between them. He felt that there was their love still remained, but could not undo any happenings. Where are you taking me? I am not coming to your home, she said when she realized that they were not heading towards the orphanage. Did you say 'your home'? He looked at her sharply. She did not respond. I am taking you to DGP Sirs house. Why should I go to DGP Uncles house? Leave me at the orphanage, she insisted. I am just following his orders. You can discuss with him yourself. Raghu left her at the door without even coming inside. Everyone at home was waiting eagerly for Raghu. All the elders of the village had come. Anitha and Divya along with Anil and Giri had also come when they got the word. While they felt gloomy on hearing the happenings at home, they felt devastated on hearing about Devis attack. Raghu could see the same question in everyones eyes when he entered the house. She is fine and safe. I have left her at DGP Sirs house, he said and left for his room. You did not bring her home, Sankar Rao asked angrily. She is not coming home now and never, Raghu replied curtly and left without looking back. Sankar Rao felt agitated and started to speak something, but Raghuramaiah stopped him. I need to see her once, can we go to DGPs house? he asked. Everyone left immediately leaving Suseela, Kamalamma, Pooja and Yamuna behind. Pooja looked at Yamuna with melancholic eyes. She detested her Dads behavior with Devi. She understood the reason for her fathers hardheartedness. She understood everything now and shared everything with her brother.

DGPs wife Sumitra greeted everyone politely and showed them to Devis room. You are coming back with us, Sankar Rao and Kalavathi insisted. But, Raghuramaiah stopped them. She is not coming home, he said. she will not sacrifice her dignity and self-respect anymore for anyone. Sumitra stood by the door and watched him and felt great respect for him. He caressed her face gently. Take care of yourself. And be brave like you have been till now, he said and left the room. You have been like a mother to her till now and we know that you will continue to be, Tulsamma said to Sumitra as she left the house. Everyone entered their home silently. Anitha and Divya said their good-byes and started to leave. Divya approached her mother and consoled her. Mom, you need not worry. Raghu will not leave you for anyone in this world, not even for Devi, she said looking at her mother. Anitha and Giri disliked her comments. He cannot live without you. He will be always with you. But let me tell you. His soul will always be with Devi, wherever she is. No one can part their souls, not even death, she said and left. Everyone watched her in dismay. Raghu watched the news with his blood boiling with anger. Minister Laxmi Narayana blatantly denied all the claims made by the police. And the police do not have enough evidence to substantiate that the attack attempt on Mrs. Devi was executed by the Minister, a reporter read out. Prosecutor called Devi and discussed about the next hearing which was due in three days. He suggested that he can ask for the next date, but Devi rejected the idea. She said that she was fine and wanted to go ahead and get the culprits punished with no more delays. Devi asked for a meet with the lawyer at his home and he agreed. I have actually come to meet your wife, she said. Rajeev Sharmas wife, Usha, was a divorce attorney. Devi greeted Usha and said. I will come straight to the point. I need your help.I need your help in filing divorce, she said. Rajeev and Usha looked startled at each other and looked back at her puzzled. Can you take up my divorce case? Devi asked. I dont understand Mrs. Devi, why are you.., Mr. Sharma spoke, but Devi interjected.

I cannot discuss anything right now. I require you to prepare the necessary documents and file the case in the court. Usha looked helpless. We will have to discuss with Mr.Raghu and understand his position regarding this. If he is also in agreement, then we can file divorce with mutual consent and it will make the case easy. She said. Fine, please talk to him as my lawyer, Devi replied and left for home. Raghu lit a cigarette and strolled in his room quietly. The attack on Devi was devouring his mind. I have to teach those mongrels a lesson, he thought. The maid knocked at his room door and announced that a lawyer has come to meet him. Raghu was surprised to see Mrs. Sharma there. He greeted her and offered her a seat. She shifted awkwardly in her seat and spoke. I have come here on Mrs. Devis behalf. She appointed me as her lawyer to take up your divorce case. She has asked for a divorce from you. Raghu looked at her silently without talking a word. What rubbish? We will never let her do this. We will talk to her. Please give us some time, Sankar Rao spoke. Usha started to speak, but Raghu stopped her. we can go and file for mutual consent divorce. Let Devi add any clause she wants to. Please prepare the papers and call me when needed, he said. She nodded and walked off silently. She discussed with her husband and both of them were confused on the happenings. Mr. Sharma was happy one side that his case was in a very strong position, but this new development, though it has nothing to do with his case disturbed him. He looked up at Raghu and Devi, and could not understand their need for separation. The failed attack attempt on Devi only strengthened the prosecutions case further. The judge seemed to have acknowledged all the witnesses and evidences till now. The defense continued cross questioning Devi trying to prove that she did not catch a proper glimpse of the guy on the day of the incident. He twisted his questions, but Devi would not dissuade. She was feeling very weak and tired from the past few days. Sumitra aunty also reprimanded her and demanded her to take care of her health. Devi had lost a lot of blood in the past two incidents and was getting tired easily. However,, she still stood in the court room undeterred answering the defense. Nevertheless, as the defense lawyer continued his probe her giddiness increased and she fainted in the courtroom. Everyone in the courtroom was astonished with this incident. Raghu came running quickly towards her and carried her to the hospital. The judge adjourned the session.

The doctor asked for some blood work and tests to be done after Raghu explained him about Devis past accidents and illness. Devi after having some glucose and juice settled in a chair with Raghu beside her and Ramani standing behind. The doctor entered the room with the test reports in his hand and congratulated Devi and Raghu. They could not understand and looked at him puzzled. Congratulations Mrs. Raghu, you are pregnant. I understand you would have not noticed because of your busy life and the situations you have been in the past. Devi looked at him bewildered. I am.but. She choked for words. Raghu and Ramani too looked shocked. When was your last period Mrs. Raghu? he questioned. But, she sat on the chair numb as she thought. I think it was in the first week of last month, she said. That means..I am really carrying a baby? she asked looking at Raghu. Doctor acknowledged smiling at her. Raghu looked at her his eyes filled with intense joy. You are pregnantI will be a father. He choked for words and hugged her. Your health at this point is very sensitive, so you will have to be more careful. You need not worry. We will have to increase your iron supplements and vitamins, the doctor continued. Ramani placed a hand on Devis shoulder, she was also very happy for Devi, but she knew that this happiness was temporary. But Madam, you are getting divorced? she said. Devi and Raghu looked at each other silently. Their hearts were filled with the greatest joy and sorrow at the same time. The doctor looked at them startled. He wrote down the prescription and handed it over to Devi. Start with these medicines immediately and consult a Gynecologist from now on, he said and left the room. Devi walked out of hospital silently and got into her car without speaking a word. She watched silently as Raghu got into her car. He was searching for words. Unable to speak anything, he hugged her tightly and kissed her, and then got out of the car. Raghu did not know how to react. He was fraught with emotion. They both were so much in love that they did not think of any other outcome. He was very happy that he will be a father, but he had made his decision to leave Devi and did not want to step back. He also knew what Devi would do. How will she manage the baby alone? he thought. she takes care of numerous children in the orphanage, but will she take care of herself and the baby?

Devi sat in the car silently; tears were flowing continuously from her eyes. She placed her hand on her stomach trying to feel the new life developing in her. Ramani explained everything to DGP and his wife after reaching home. Devi quietly left into her room. Sumitra placed her hand on Devis shoulder and caressed her. Whatever you do and whatever you decide, we will be there by your side. Dont feel alone ever, she said. Devi slept silently with no more thoughts. Her mind was numb. She reconciled herself to her fate. Raghu walked into the house quietly. Everyone at the house was waiting for him to return. They got news about Devi fainting in the courtroom. What happened to Devi? How is she now? Kalavathi asked as soon as he entered the house. She is fine. She is pregnant, he said and left into his room. Everyone at home sat down trying to come to terms with this latest development. What will we do now? We have to stop this divorce? We have to convince the children, Tulsamma said looking at her brother. We are not doing anything in this matter. It is up to them to decide about the future of their marriage and the child, Raghuramiah said. Sankar Rao started. But we have to talk to Devi, what if she will decide to abort. Raghuramiah silenced his son. Nothing like that will happen, he interjected. Grandpa is correct. Devi will never do that mistake. She is taking care of many orphans. She will not harm her own child. Gayathri added. Swamijis words have come true. Leave this matter to destiny, Raghuramiah said. Let us go and meet Devi once, he said and walked out of the house. Devi finished her dinner absent-mindedly. Purushottam and Sumitra watched her intently. They wondered why she had to always go through so much of pain. What will you do Devi? You are going through a very unpleasant phase in your life. Having a baby is a big responsibility for you now. Can you handle this? Sumitra asked her. Do you want to discuss with Raghu once? He is a good person, you both can give this marriage one more chance. Purushottam suggested.

Devi looked at them with melancholic eyes. I know Raghu loves me a lot. You know why Raghu has agreed for this divorce Aunty? She paused. He has understood that we both can never be happy together. She wiped her tears. I will have this baby alone. I can manage. You are not alone Devi. Sankar Rao said as he entered DGPs house. The entire family embraced Devi and wished her. I knew what my daughter would decide, Raghuramiah said caressing Devi. Take care of yourself and the little one inside you. We are all there by your side always. Devi felt rejuvenated after seeing them and hearing their words. Raghu strolled on the terrace alone. He cursed his fate and the circumstances. He yearned to be with Devi, by her side, and solace her. He cursed his helplessness. Devis absence haunted him at home; he left to Dineshs place. Kamalamma spoke with her daughter finding no one at home. Dont let that devil come back with this reason. And you dont worry about Raghu. He will forget her after sometime and move on. Pooja watched her grandma her eyes filled with hatred. She grabbed her mother to her room to talk to her. She could not tolerate the wrong happenings any more. Sankar Rao sat on his bed silently and started examining some ledgers. Raghu has not yet come home, Suseela said sitting beside him. You both rarely talk to me nowadays. She said looking at him. He continued with his work paying no attention. I did not ask Raghu to leave Devi. You did not stop him either, he said and went to bed. Lawyer Usha met up with Raghu the next day asking for his signature on the divorce application. Devi is pregnant, if she desires to add any clauses regarding alimony, I have my consent, he said. No Sir, Devi Madam already discussed with me regarding this. She is not interested in any settlement. Raghu silently signed the divorce petition.

Suseela stopped Raghu and asked him to have breakfast before leaving for office. He said that he was not hungry and had to leave for some urgent work. I never asked you to leave Devi. She is pregnant and if you both want to be with each other, I will not stop you. You can leave this house and go and stay along with her. Or maybe, I will only leave this house; I will go and stay with my brother. She needs to be here more than me. I can leave Raghu silenced her placing his hand on her lips. Leaving her was my choice. You have nothing do with my decision. Devi will never want to be present in my life at the cost of you leaving me, he said and left. Raghu watched Devi silently as she answered to the defense lawyer in the courtroom. He understood that days will turn into months, and months will turn into years during the trail. She looked very weak and feeble. You are looking very weak. Cannot you take proper care of yourself? he asked her during recess. Why are you scolding me? You will never understand what I am going through, she replied harshly. Will you ever stop complaining that I cannot understand you? I understood everything. Do you know how helpless I am feeling right now? Yesterday, Mom asked me to leave her for you. Do you want me to? I never asked you to I know, you will never ask me to. I told the same to Mom. When you know everything, why dont you let it go and take care of yourself? How much ever I try I am unable to cope up with this breakup. I feel lonely. You are feeling lonely. How should I feel then? That house and that room without you haunt me. Every inch of that room, the bed, everything reminds me your scent. I dont have anything other than our past moments. You have our baby with you forever. How can you feel lonely? he asked. She looked at him silently, feeling his pain. She knew that he was right; she had to take care of herself and her baby. The court session resumed after recess. The judge seemed to have acknowledged all the witnesses and evidences and pronounced the next Wednesday as the final judgment day. The media surrounded Devi and Raghu as they came out of the court hall and walked towards their cars. Minister Laxmi Narayana looked at them with hatred. He walked towards his son Madhukar as the police whisked him into a jeep. Dont you worry son, trust me, I will take care of everything, he said as the police led him into the jeep.

A constable slid a small paper into Madhukars hand in the jeep. He quickly opened the paper and read the small text written on the paper. Grab this constables gun when you reach the second traffic signal from here. He will surrender to you. Take him at gunpoint and get into the black SUV parked at the end of the road. There is no other way to rescue you. The constable quietly snatched the paper from Madhukars hand and slid it into his pocket. Madhukars hands were sweating and his legs trembled in fear as he recalled the past few days. He knew that his case was weak and the judge would definitely sentence him next week. He remembered his fathers words and thought if this was the way his father was rescuing him from this conviction. He looked at the constable who winked at him as the jeep neared the traffic signal. He knew that he had to act instantly without doubt. He grabbed the gun from constables hand and held him at gunpoint. He quickly jumped out of the jeep dragging the constable with him. The policemen in the jeep quickly came out pointing their guns at him warning him to surrender. He looked at the black SUV at the end of the road and briskly walked towards it, but was shocked when the SUV sped off as soon as the signal turned green. He was confused, his mind was blank unable to realize the happenings, he walked further on the road with constable still held at gunpoint, leave me and run away, I will shield you, the constable whispered in his ear. Unable to decide on anything else, Madhukar did as suggested and started running. Little did he know that it was an ambush? He just went a few furlongs after crossing the road when he heard a gunshot. Not knowing that a bullet pierced past him, he collapsed in a pool of blood within seconds. Police came running towards him and surrounded him in seconds. One of the constables took Madhukars hand; he could not feel the pulse and declared him dead. The constables quickly carried Madhukars body and shifted him into ambulance. The constable who was held at gunpoint few moments back heaved a sigh of relief, when everyone hurried to board the ambulance and the jeep; he swiftly pulled out the small slip from his pocket and swallowed it. The news of Madhukars death spread across the city in minutes with all the news channels running scrolls of his unsuccessful attempt to escape. News reporters remarked that Madhukar was frightened about the upcoming sentence and tried to escape in haste. Minister Laxmi Narayana collapsed with a major heart stroke on hearing the news. The left side of his body was paralyzed aftermath. Everyone wondered as to why Madhukar resorted to such hasty plan. Raghus family was delighted when they heard the news. Though they were glad that Madhukar will be sentenced soon, but they could not stay at peace. They knew that the defense would appeal in higher courts and drag the case forever putting Devi into an ordeal. This news brought them relief. Devi walked into the hospital for her first ultrasound appointment. She felt wrecked nervous as she thought about the babys health. She entered the room and lay on the bed and waited for the

sonographer. Sumitra gently stroked Devis palm and advised to stay calm. The sonographer walked in and started to examine the monitor but turned around when she saw someone open the door. Raghu walked in quietly and stood beside Devi. They looked at each other silently. Sonographer was about to say something but Sumitra interjected. he is her husband, she said and left the room. The sonographer examined the screen while she moved the probe on Devis stomach. The baby is fine, she said as she continued marking the readings. Those few words sent a wave of relief for Devi and Raghu. Raghu looked intently at the monitor but could not make out anything. The sonographer turned the monitor towards Devi and pointed her finger at the white and grey areas on the monitor. The baby is measuring 7 weeks and 5 days and has a great heartbeat. So, relax yourself, she said. Devi and Raghu watched the grape-size image intently. Raghu kissed her lightly on her forehead while Devi caressed her stomach. They sat outside the hospital room looking at the ultrasound pictures marveling at the fact that they were parents. Can I take these pictures with me? Raghu asked. Devi nodded silently and walked away with Sumitra by her side. Devi slept on the bed staring at the ceiling stroking her stomach while Raghu slept on the bed gazing at the pictures forever. For the first time after many days, he was not feeling alone. Having those pictures in hand, he felt Devi and baby by his side. Devi drifted to sleep peacefully after many days. Inspector Shivaram produced the final investigation report about Madhukars death and handed over to DGP. Raghu sat opposite to DGP and watched silently. Is this all you got after a week of investigation? DGP questioned him. It is open and shut case Sir; we do not have much to investigate. Madhukar acted in haste. He had grabbed constable Vishwanaths gun and held him at gunpoint. I wonder if he could act that unreasonable. There was no way he could escape in such a crowded area, DGP expressed his concern. Did he communicate with anyone while in prison or in court? Did anything suspicious happen? No Sir, the security was very tight. We had deployed our best personnel after the attack on Mrs. Devi. All the constables were appointed personally by Raghu taking at most care to avoid any chances of escape. Fine, submit the report and recommend for case closure, DGP replied.

Pratap Rao entered Raos house silently. He had to come on Poojas insistence. I will not see and reveal my exam results until you come, she declared adamantly. He knew that he will not be welcome in that house after the incident. Nonetheless,, he would do anything for his daughter. The family greeted him coldly and got back to work. He was happy in one corner of his heart that Raghu was not present. Pooja viewed her test results in the computer and jumped in delight. Her brother Karthik and mother Yamuna were relieved that she got the best score. I am proud of dear, at least you will bring fame to my name, Pratap Rao said hugging her. Pooja moved away understanding what he meant and looked at Karthik in pain. The entire family came and congratulated her. Dad, I have to discuss my future plans with you, Pooja said. I have decided to join medical college in Chennai. I will go and live along with brother. You need not Pratap Rao said, but Pooja stopped him. Listen to me completely. I have made my decision. Mom is also coming along with me. We will live in Chennai from now on. We dont want to live with you anymore, she said looking at the ground. What rubbish are you talking? Have you gone out of your mind? Kamalamma started shouting. Dont shout Grandma. We have thought about it well and decided. We are not going to change our decision because you are shouting. We, what do you mean by We, Pratap Rao asked. Me, Pooja and Mother together arrived at this decision, Karthik replied. Dont you even try to talk in between me and my daughter, Pratap Rao shouted raising his hand on Karthik. But, Yamuna came in between. Enough! I have tolerated all the insults you and your mother have done to me for entire life. But, never try to undermine my son, Yamuna shouted. Pratap Rao and the entire family were staring at her. Everyone was seeing her for the first time in this avatar.

How dare you talk to my son like that? You want to leave right. Leave right now. I will also see how you will continue living without my son by your side, Kamalamma screamed. Mom, please keep quiet. Yamuna, let us sit and discuss. Do not arrive at any decision in haste, Suseela tried to convince her. Why are you begging this third-rate woman? She will only come back whining in two days. Let her go, Kamalamma screamed. Suseela looked at Pratap Rao helplessly. He did not make a move. He was stunned by this development. The entire house watched silently as Yamuna, Pooja and Karthik left. Raghu was shocked to hear the news. He went and spoke to his mother. Mom, dont worry. We will go to Chennai on Sunday. We will discuss and bring them back. Suseela smiled weakly at him and asked him to go and have his dinner. Raghu is right. I cannot leave this matter like this. I will go to Chennai and get them back at any cost, she said looking at Sankar Rao. I wish you could do the same with Devi, he said and went to bed. Everyone was startled when they heard that Devi was standing outside the house the next day and came out. She would not come inside. Why did you do this? she screamed at Raghu. What have I done? Did you think you can get out of this matter so easily? You are enough intelligent to not leave any proofs. DGP uncle might not be able to question you without proofs. But, I dont need any. Tell me, why did you do this? What did he do Devi? What happened? Sankar Rao asked her holding her shoulder. He got Madhukar killed. He planned and executed everything. DGP uncle does not have any evidence. But, he is suspecting Raghu. Raghu did everything with the help of that constable. Everyone in the house was startled. Is she telling the truth? Sankar Rao demanded. Dad, I have not done anything like that. It is duty of officers to investigate all angles, so they are suspecting me too. Dont worry. You did it Raghu. I know it, Devi said.

Look into my eyes and answer, have you got that Madhukar killed? Raghuramiah questioned. Raghu stood there silently getting angrier at their questions. Why did you do this? He was anyway getting sentenced. What was the need to dirty your hands like this? he asked. I dont need to answer to any of your questions. Just forget this matter here, Raghu said and turned away to leave. Why did you do this Raghu? What if they gather proofs and suspend you? Dont you care about your career and your life? Sankar Rao asked him. I care a damn about my career and life. They would never keep quiet. They would never give up. They tried to kill her and they would try again. So, you went ahead and killed them? Yes, I did. And if you have gone through my pain, you would also do the same. I saw her fall off that cliff in front of my eyes. I saw her unconscious on a hospital bed fighting for life. Do you even know how it feels like when your life slips off your hands in front of you? I know it. I felt it. I did what I felt right and I need not explain anything to any of you, he cried and left the house. Everyone watched him silently. Devi wiped the tears that inadvertently shed from her eyes and left. Raghus words were ringing in her ears. She walked silently into the house without looking towards Purushottam. Purushottam looking at her face realized that his doubts were true. He suspected when he examined the security arrangements of Madhukar. All the security personnel were close followers of Raghu. He looked at Sumitra and understood the questions running in her mind. I will not do anything. I cannot do anything without evidence. Devi arrived at the hospital on hearing news of Gayathris delivery. She congratulated the new parents and took the baby in her hands. She is so cute and tiny, she exclaimed putting back the baby beside Gayathri. Raghu realized that she was not even looking at him. It had been a month since she met him at home and they never spoke with each other. You can start looking for names. Now that you know it is a girl, she said. We have already thought of a few names, Pavan replied. You already did your homework? But, What if it was a boy? Sirisha asked. No, we knew it would be a girl. Did you forget Swamijis words? This family will get a son only from Devi.

Devi and Raghu looked at each other silently. How is your health and babys health? Gayathri asked Devi. Yeah, we are fine, she said. I can see a small baby bump already, Gayathri smiled. Devi smiled and said, I will leave now, and she left. Raghu understood that she was angry with him. Nonetheless,, he was fine with her anger as long as she was safe. Suseela sat next to her brother who sat silently in his room. For one month, she stopped herself fearing her mothers anger. She could not stop any more and came to the village to confront him. She was there by your side each and every moment of your life in all your ups and downs. You always despised her, but she always returned love hoping that one day you will reciprocate. Dont let her go. Dont let her go at any cost. You need her and the children in your life. Your life is void without them. Get them back, she said. She reprimanded when her mother tried to interfere. Pratap Rao understood her saying. He left for Chennai immediately. He tried to convince his wife and children in all possible ways. I have spent enough of my lifetime waiting for you, but I want to give my time to my children now, Yamuna replied. Please give me one chance, he begged. With no response from her he started to leave. I will come with you Dad, Pooja said. Karthik and Yamuna looked at her shocked; she stopped them when they tried to say something. I will come with you Dad, but I have one condition. Pratap Rao listened to her and quietly left the house. Suseela waited in the hall her mind tensed. She spoke with her brother the day before, he said that he was returning, but did not discuss anything else. She wondered if his family was coming along. She ran briskly towards the door when she heard the vehicle sound at the gate. She was startled to see Devi along with Pratap Rao. All the family members came out seeing her expression and were shocked. I have brought back the daughter of this house. Wont you welcome? Pratap Rao asked his sister. Everyone took Devi inside still recovering from the surprise as Pratap Rao started to speak.

I realized the pain I have given to this family only when my family left me, he said as everyone listened intently. I lead a bitter life and spread the same bitterness to people around me. But, I dont want to live like this anymore. I want to bury the past and live for a happy future. I realized my mistakes only when my daughter confronted me. If she at her age could explain to me what is right and what is wrong, I can the least understand. So, I have brought back the daughter of this house, he said. Pooja? What did Pooja do? Suseela asked. She said that my house can back its daughter only if this house gets back its daughter. Sankar Rao called Raghu and asked him to come home immediately. What has happened Dad? Raghu asked as soon as he entered the house. Go to your room, just go without any questions, he said. Raghu was perplexed when he saw Devi in his room. She was busy arranging her clothes in the wardrobe. I leave this room for a few months and you have turned it into a market, she said looking at him. Now, will you continue staring at me like that or help me in cleaning this mess. I am carrying a baby. I cannot do it all by myself. Raghu continued staring at her as he entered the room and closed the door. You are here? He questioned choking for words. Well, either I am here or you are dreaming. Yes, I think it is a dream. I dream of this every night, he said stroking her hair. Devi looked at him and smiled. He lifted her and placed her on the bed sensitively and continued looking at her filling her image into his eyes. He slowly moved his hand towards her stomach and lifted her shirt and moved her skirt a little down. He caressed her stomach and moved towards it and lightly kissed on it. I can see the baby bump. She is growing. It is he, he is growing, Devi corrected. Raghu kissed her delicately on her lips. She turned around and slept on his chest listening to his heartbeat. She was happy now. After long years of her life, she could finally sleep without any fears. There was no fear of separation. There was only love.